Tomas Soucek apologises away from West Ham as Czechia achieve unwanted feat
Tomas Soucek has apologised to Czechia fans after the West Ham midfielder missed a penalty in their 1-0 win over San Marino.
Multiple West Ham stars are away on international duty in the final break of the year.
Soucek is no different, with the Hammers star aiming to secure his nation’s spot in the playoffs for the 2026 World Cup.
In recent times, Soucek has endured a terrible time with Czechia. In the last break, the Czechia side lost to the Faroe Islands in what was an embarrassing display.
However, things haven’t got much better this month.
Tomas Soucek misses penalty as Czechia record worst-ever win over San Marino
While Soucek did score against San Marino, it was an awful display all around.
Against one of the worst teams in the world, there was an expectation that goals would be flying.
Yet, Czechia could only manage one, as they recorded their lowest-ever victory against the micro-nation.
However, Soucek had an opportunity to net before his goal as the hosts were awarded a penalty.
- Czechia played out a 1-0 win over San Marino on Thursday
- While it was only a friendly, it was a disappointing display
- Now, Czechia are preparing for their final qualifier against on Monday
The West Ham midfielder stepped up to take the spot kick before sending the ball wide of the post.
Speaking to Sport.cz on 13 November after the match, Soucek took the time to apologise to fans.
He said: “I chose the wrong technique, because the pitch was probably not quite right for me to shoot with my instep.
“Now at West Ham I try it with my instep, I give it, but now it didn’t work for me.
“In the conditions that were there, I chose the wrong one, I should have tightened it with a spot kick.
“I’m sorry, the result is also because of this moment.”
- Read more: Tomas Soucek nears Premier League history as £17m West Ham move proves David Sullivan masterstroke
Soucek is past his best
While Soucek is still performing well for West Ham, it is clear that he is now past his best.
Realistically, the Hammers now need to look to replace the Czech international permanently.
With less than two years on his contract, the midfielder surely will not be offered another, giving Nuno Espirito Santo limited time to fulfil this need.
Hopefully, targets have already been drawn up, ready to replace Soucek when he is either released or sold.
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