West Ham Boost as Souček Set for Behind-Closed-Doors Return

By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)

Tomáš Souček is said to be “raring to go” as he looks set to make his long-awaited West Ham return in a behind-closed-doors friendly this week.

Souček has been unavailable for selection by Nuno Espírito Santo following the ankle ligament injury he sustained at the World Cup this summer.

Many had speculated that the Czech midfielder would be ready to return for the London derby against Millwall, a game which would certainly have benefited from his involvement.

However, it now appears Souček’s comeback will come this week as West Ham play a competitive friendly behind closed doors.

Souček is ‘raring to go’

The match has already been confirmed to Claret & Hugh by club sources and, within the last few moments, we have spoken to a football agent close to Souček who told us the midfielder is “raring to go”.

That is excellent news for Nuno, who has been without one of his most experienced players throughout the opening weeks of the Championship season.

Souček has returned to training but was understandably not risked against Millwall without having played a competitive minute this season.

Ironically, the 2-2 draw at The Den was exactly the sort of game where his physicality, experience and willingness to compete would have been useful.

Nuno gets another senior player back

Nuno’s squad were given some much-needed rest and time off last week, but those not involved in international duty are now back at Rush Green preparing for the resumption of the Championship.

For Souček, the behind-closed-doors fixture offers the perfect opportunity to get some proper match minutes into his legs without immediately throwing him into a league game.

Assuming he comes through it without any problems, Nuno could finally have the Czech midfielder available when West Ham return to Championship action against Queens Park Rangers on 9 October.

After such a long absence, hearing that Souček is “raring to go” is about as encouraging an update as West Ham could have hoped for.