Derisively called ‘the new Marouane Fellaini’ when signed by West Ham United, Tomas Soucek is far more than a ball-winner. The 26-year-old Czech international has been a key signing since he arrived in England, becoming one of the most important players in David Moyes’ new look West Ham side.
Without him and his surprisingly high supply of goals, assists, passes, and tackles, it is unlikely that West Ham would be enjoying the same quality of season as they are today. Soucek is, without doubt, an essential part of the West Ham revival.
What makes Tomas Soucek worth watching?
A ridiculous return of 13 goals across all competitions is something nobody could have expected from a holding midfielder. However, having scored around the same amount of goals from defensive midfield as he does from further forward, Soucek is a naturally aggressive midfielder who finds it easy to score.
Add in over 5 aerial duels won per game on average and a passing accuracy above 75%, and it is easy to see why Soucek is such a well-respected player. His height, physicality, technical class, and ability to play on both ends of the ball makes him a hugely intriguing talent.
Things to improve for Tomas Soucek
The main thing that Soucek could improve upon, though, is that passing accuracy. While a strong rating, he does tend to be a touch too ambitious at times, slack at others. This, though, could stem from West Ham trying to always move the ball forward as opposed to trying to maintain possession for long periods of time.
His long range passing is great, but it can lead to a lot of concessions of the ball. Also, he can commit one too many fouls – especially when attacking. If those fouls were reduced, Soucek would hold claim to being among the best midfielders in England.