West Ham Exclusive: Soucek Facing Months Out After World Cup Injury

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

Poor old Tomas Soucek has had a World Cup to forget, and it seems things have got even worse, Claret & Hugh have discovered after a conversation with one of his representatives today.

Soucek was injured while attempting to close down Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa during Czechia’s Group A match.

His ankle rolled, his knee gave way and he had to be stretchered from the pitch in obvious agony. For anyone who watched the reply, it was very much a look-away moment as his foot folded underneath him.

Following the 3-0 defeat to the co-hosts, Czechia finished bottom of Group A with just one point, bringing their World Cup to an early end.

Exclusive Update

As for Big Sou, it had initially looked as though he would miss the beginning of the season.

However, according to a member of his team, the prognosis could be considerably worse.

Speaking exclusively to Claret & Hugh this lunchtime, we were told:

“Tomas still needs more scans but we are thinking months. Possibly three.”

A Huge Blow

It is a massive blow for both the midfielder and West Ham.

The Hammers had intended to keep the 31-year-old as part of Nuno Espírito Santo’s plans to win immediate promotion back to the Premier League.

Soucek has just one year remaining on his current West Ham contract, making the timing of the injury even more unfortunate.

Waiting For The Full Picture

For now, further scans will determine the full extent of the damage.

But if the initial fears prove correct, West Ham could be without one of their most experienced players for the opening months of what promises to be a demanding Championship campaign.

It goes without saying that everyone wishes Tomas a speedy recovery.