In a recent report, Takvim claimed that West Ham United midfielder Tomas Soucek is generating interest from Turkey. It has been mentioned that Fenerbahce are hoping to land the experienced talent from the Hammers this summer.
Soucek’s Important Role At West Ham Last Season
Soucek had a decent campaign at the East London club recently as he managed to put in a series of impressive displays for them at the centre of the park. The 29-year-old registered ten goals and grabbed three assists in 52 matches for West Ham last season on all fronts.
The Czech sensation anchored the midfield with conviction for the Hammers and did well to average 1.4 tackles, 1.0 interceptions and 2.9 clearances per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He was even tidy with his ball distribution after completing 75.7% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Soucek’s current contract at the London Stadium will run out in the summer of 2027. Hence, Julen Lopetegui is under no pressure to cash in on him this off-season.
Should West Ham United Boss Julen Lopetegui Cut Soucek Loose This Summer?
Soucek is a good tackler of the ball and can offer decent protection for his teammates at the back. He can sense the danger well and is a solid interceptor of the ball. The Czech sensation doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot. He can even strike the ball with venom from long range.
Soucek mainly operates as a defensive midfielder for West Ham. However, he can also serve as a box-to-box midfielder or play in the number ten position if required. Soucek has got a wealth of experience in the Premier League and could still play a crucial role for the Hammers if Julen Lopetegui opts to keep hold of him beyond this summer. At 29, he is still playing in his prime and has what it takes to compete for a regular first-team spot at the London Stadium in the coming seasons.
Therefore, West Ham should not consider cutting Soucek loose this off-season as he remains a valuable presence in their dressing room. He is still under a long-term contract at the East London club, so Lopetegui would be better off retaining his services beyond this summer.