David Moyes and Declan Rice have both lauded Tomas Soucek after he marked his birthday with a goal against Wolves on Sunday.
The Hammers went into the game well aware that they couldn’t afford to lose, with Bruno Lage’s side just two points behind the Irons with a game in hand at kick-off. 
Now, though, the Irons have climbed firmly back into the top-four mix after Soucek’s goal gave the Hammers a 1-0 win over the Molineux club.
Following the final whistle, the Hammers are fifth, two points behind fourth-placed Manchester United, and face a busy week, facing Southampton in the FA Cup and Liverpool in the Premier League.
Speaking after the game, Declan was quick to praise his midfield partner, insisting that he was back to his very best after a rough period of form.
Indeed, Soucek hadn’t scored in the league since December prior to Sunday’s game.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Rice said: “I am delighted for him. He has played so many games and minutes, he has been outstanding for us, his goals and defensive ability, he is great to play alongside. Today was him back to his best, working for the team and scoring a great goal.”
Moyes was also full of praise for the Czech Republic international, who he claims has set his standards so high with his previous performances.
He said: “His standards have been set so high, he has hardly put a foot wrong, he is a great lad to have around your team.”
Sorry I did not see that if he had not scored the goal I would have said he improved today but not to the level he has been. He needs to be rested against Southampton and try a player like Fornals in the middle of the pitch with Rice.