Josh Edwards

Mon 16 March 2026 13:10, UK Updated Mon 16 March 2026 13:44, UK

Tomas Soucek may well have become West Ham United‘s most important player.

Going back a few months, Soucek was one of those at the London Stadium being hurled abuse on a regular basis, with former Hammer Vladimir Coufal even speaking out about it.

Fast forward to now, and the view on the Czech midfielder has changed completely, and certainly for the better.

West Ham are still at risk of relegation despite their impressive recent form, and Soucek may well be the key to avoiding that ahead of the final eight games of the season.

West Ham’s record without Tomas Soucek speaks volumes

Soucek has four goals for West Ham this season, and all but one of them have been at a crucial stage in a game.

That in itself has showcased his true level of importance.

However, his impact in West Ham’s midfield goes far beyond his goal involvement, with the Irons having won just twice when he has not started.

In the two games that the Irons have won when he hasn’t started, he scored a goal after coming on as a substitute.

As showcased by his Sofascore graphic below, the Hammers have a 31 per cent win rate with him in the team, and a 57 per cent loss rate without him.

Of West Ham’s 29 points, 19 of them have been picked up when the midfielder has started, compared to 10 when he has been absent from the squad or named on the bench.

While the likes of Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen will get their plaudits if Nuno Espirito Santo’s side avoid the drop, plenty of attention should also be reserved for Soucek.

Who will miss out given Soucek’s importance?

Mateus Fernandes being in the starting 11 is a non-negotiable given the quality he has shown this season, but Soucek certainly should be the next in line for a starting spot.

The two of them complement each other well, with Fernandes’ creative flair matched well by Soucek’s ability at both ends of the pitch.

While it means a place on the bench for Soungouto Magassa, it simply is a sacrifice that has to be made by Nuno and West Ham.