Report – West Ham absentee ‘nailed on’ for starting XI comeback v Wolves
Tomas Soucek is “nailed on” to return to West Ham’s starting lineup when they face Wolves on Sunday, according to Claret & Hugh.
The 25-year-old midfielder has been absent from David Moyes’s first XI since damaging a flexor muscle during the 3-2 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield last month, but did make an appearance from the bench in the 1-0 loss to Arsenal at the weekend.
It is understood, however, that the Czech will be fit enough to play the full 90 minutes when the Hammers come up against Nuno Espirito Santo’s Wanderers at the London Stadium.
Soucek has proved to be a popular figure in east London since arriving on loan from Slavia Prague in January, and had started three consecutive Premier League matches prior to his injury.
The midfielder played nine minutes against the Gunners after having returned from his spell on the sidelines quicker than initially anticipated.
How much of a boost is this for David Moyes?
It could be huge, there’s no doubt about it.
Soucek has adapted to life in England impressively, and his presence in the centre of midfield will be a very welcome addition for a West Ham side who are scrapping for their lives at the foot of the table.
Since arriving in the Premier League, the 25-year-old has proven to be a rangy, battling figure, and lord knows the Hammers need a bit of grit now more than ever.
So far this season, he has managed 9.55 interceptions per game, as well as winning 5.51 defensive duels, as per Wyscout.
As a point of reference, Mark Noble has made 2.7 interceptions, and has won 5.37 defensive duels, as per Wyscout.
In short, the Hammer look like a more more assured entity with Soucek in the side.
In other West Ham news, Report – Hammers make ‘contact’ with ‘revelation’ European boss.