Vladimír Coufal’s place in West Ham folklore is secure. The former Hammer became a cult hero through his gritty performances, his personality and the way he immersed himself in East London culture.
Most importantly, Coufal was one of the heroes of West Ham’s Conference League triumph in Prague. That made his return to England as Czechia captain particularly poignant, although his evening at Wembley quickly turned sour.
Coufal inadvertently opened the scoring in England’s 3-0 victory, diverting Harry Kane’s low cross beyond his own goalkeeper after 27 minutes. It was unfortunate, although Eberechi Eze had not followed the cross into the area, meaning the attempted interception was probably unnecessary. The timing was simply cruel for a player who remains so popular among Hammers supporters.
West Ham may still regret Coufal decision
Coufal departed when Graham Potter appeared determined to remove senior players, characters and leaders from the West Ham squad.
There is every likelihood that, had he remained, the Czech defender would still be holding down the right-back position at the London Stadium now.
Nevertheless, the night ultimately belonged to Harry Kane. The England captain scored twice during the 3-0 victory while equalling Peter Shilton’s record of 125 England appearances.
Jude Bellingham was also outstanding. His understanding with Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson offered another glimpse of the world-class player he has become.
It is just a shame England did not display the same attacking intent against Argentina at the World Cup.
Coufal was a lovely guy but we’ve forgotten how with age (he is 34) he was getting rinsed for speed in his last season with us? All the talk about how you need pace these days to succeed and yet we think Coufal would still be starting for us?
Think the keeper should of shouted to him to leave it?
would of liked him still to be here, another one who may have a few limitations but always gave 110%
“Coufal departed when Graham Potter appeared determined to remove senior players, characters and leaders from the West Ham squad.”
Yep. It’s so ironic considering that Potter lacks character, leadership, and any substance himself as well. He then decides to get rid of all our warriors.
What a pathetic beige turtle neck top-donning corporate jargon-talking shell of a man Potter was.
A perfect choice from Baroness “Business Brains” Botox.
Felt sorry for Coufal who didn’t deserve to be removed from the West Ham squad. He will never be the best technically but gave everything on the pitch every game inlike other’s.