Thomas Soucek: Latest West Ham United injury ‘one of the most unpleasant’ of career
Tomas Soucek has revealed his latest West Ham United injury was “one of the most unpleasant” of his career.
Speaking to the Czech FA while on international duty (6 September), the midfielder claimed that the head injury sustained in the Hammers’ 3-1 victory over Brighton was a “big blow” after missing their clash against Luton Town.
Now back fit and captaining his national side after abiding by the FA’s concussion protocols, Soucek is eager to take his Premier League form and “transfer” it to his international duties in fixtures against Albania and Hungary.
In an interview with the Czech Republic’s official website, Soucek said: “I have to say that the injury was unpleasant, it was a big blow. I have experienced quite a few injuries, but this was one of the most unpleasant.
“But the recovery went well, I feel fit and I’m looking forward to the match. He is important to us and I believe we can handle him.
“As for football fitness, I am glad that after a successful last season, we managed to enter the new season and I believe that I will transfer my form to the national team.
“The English FA has rules on how many days you can do what. I had a few days off. I then first prepared contactless.”
Lucky escape
The Premier League and the FA take head injuries very seriously these days, a matter Soucek himself pointed out in his interview, but to have the big midfielder back and fit will be a huge boost for the Hammers.
The 28-year-old was replaced by Said Benrahma in the 39th minute at the Amex following a collision with Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and missed Kenilworth Road’s Premier League debut in the next fixture.
“We are covering the Premier League protocols that are set, regarding his concussion,” Moyes said on the matter, but now Soucek has passed any tests and is ready to get back into action.
The former Slavia Prague man claimed his injury was “one of the most unpleasant” which sheds light on the extent and damage head injuries can cause footballers.
Soucek has been significant in the Hammers’ unbeaten start to the Premier League season, starting every game he’s been available for, earning himself an assist for West Ham’s first goal of the season in their 1-1 draw to Bournemouth and having the highest long-ball success rate in the squad (100%, 5/5). [FBRef]
His influence is clear and David Moyes will be happy that he won’t be without a key midfielder for long.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers could be in the market for a Champions League-winning striker who reportedly wants to move.