By Hughie Southon

There was a danger back during the international break that Vladimir Coufal could be on his way from West Ham.

The right back had spoken out about his unhappiness at being used irregularly and wanting more minutes.

He added that situation needed to be sorted out and that it would be suggesting that a departure was on the cards.

That of course sparked the usual rumours that clubs here, there and everywhere were interested in him but eventually it was Coufal who was seen as the No 1 choice for the right side of the defence.

Now he is ready for one of the toughest games of the season at Newcastle and understands that it is the team first and him second admitting: “I am always a team player first, The team’s success is always in first place for me.”

And he added: “In our situation, every win is very important, When you are dominant in the game, control the whole game, it’s not just a lucky win; it very important to not just win but win this way.

“Newcastle has bought some fantastic players, are a really good team, and is a strong opponent to play against, especially at home, but this winning run helps us. It doesn’t matter whether in the Europa Conference League, FA Cup or Carabao Cup, winning is going to help us in the Premier League.”

It is nearly 18 months since West Ham United last visited Newcastle United, and a lot has changed at St James’ Park since then.

On the opening day of the 2021/22 season, Coufal was part of a Hammers starting XI that came from behind to win 4-2. Now, against a Newcastle side, who sit third in the Premier League table and reached the Carabao Cup final last week, can the Irons repeat the feat?

“Newcastle is a very traditional club,” Coufal says. “So I’m really looking forward to playing there because an unfriendly atmosphere [from the opposition] always motivates me.

“I remember the atmosphere was amazing. It was the perfect start for us last season, and hopefully we can repeat this result.”