Exclusive by Hughie Southon
Tomas Soucek’s hopes of landing a major new deal at the club are being hit by what some insiders believe has been a collapse on last season’s levels which saw him become Hammer of the Year.
Critical new talks have been scheduled for the end of the season after the first round broke down two or three weeks ago between his agent, David Moyes and Karren Brady.
We understand he was only a small rise on his basic which would have been all but swallowed in tax – his form this season was also believed to be an issue.
But beyond money he is believed to have become increasingly unhappy with the new sitting role at the back although it has been noticeable his form is improving as he has got forward far more in recent games.
The result was a crucial goal against Sevilla and various chances in the Premier League as he pressed forward on several occasions.
So as well as money he will be looking for assurances that he will be allowed to play his natural game .
David Moyes is believed to have felt that he has not been at the same level and the club – as a result – are reluctant to improve his basic deal by the sort of levels he is after.
He was brought in on about £60k a week and apparently wants around £80k whilst also being allowed into the defensive/attacking role which saw him at his best last season.
His game has improved noticeably over recent weeks when he appears to have been instructed to do that or has taken the law into his own hands.
The summer talks are entirely crucial as to whether the Czech will have a Hammers future beyond 2024 with the likes of Athletico Madrid, Bayern Munich and Manchester United closely watching developments.
Gotta feel for the guy. He’s been told to sit deep to allow Declan a bit of glory. Because of that he is now not only getting slated for his performance but is having it held against him in negotiations. Dave had a good pairing last season now he’s tinkered with it and Soucek is having to pay the price.
The perfect comment!”
Totally agree with 79 above.
1. We know he can play at a top Premiership level – he proved that last season and just because he’s not shone as much this season, it doesn’t mean the ability is not there.
2. He must be knackered and that must have affected his game. We need enough quality to be able to rest our top players and not severely weaken our team.
3. Out of Tomas and Declan – realistically, which one is most likely to still be with us in 2 years time? I know about the length of Declan’s current contract but money and the prospect of trophies talks, as Dicksey says elsewhere. I really hope they’re both still with us but I don’t want it to be neither of them, so I hope we give Tomas what he’s looking for. We need him.