David Moyes has confirmed that there are concerns over Tomas Soucek’s fitness ahead of the clash with Liverpool this afternoon.
Soucek has been a mainstay in the West Ham side this season as he has featured in 25 Premier League games, whilst scoring four times, according to Transfermarkt. But, Moyes could have to face Liverpool at Anfield without their Czech midfielder.
“We’ve got a concern about [Tomáš] Soucek because of his stitches in his head, so that’s something we’re concerned about.” Moyes said whilst speaking to WHTV.
But with Soucek set to be sidelined against Liverpool this afternoon, what potential knock-on effects could this have for Moyes’ side?
Big blow for David Moyes?
The Czech Republic international has been key in the heart of the Hammers midfield this season, and was vital in his side’s 1-0 victory over Wolves in his recent game, scoring the winner and receiving a player rating of 7.8, as per Sofascore.
With Liverpool sitting a close second behind Manchester City in the Premier League table, Moyes could have done with Soucek because of his ability to intercept and will the ball back in midfield, as per Whoscored.
Moyes’ side sit fifth in the Premier League standing’s, just two points off fourth. Missing a key player like Soucek in such a big game against strong opposition would come as a major blow for the Hammers.
Worries for Rice?
Much like Soucek, the 23-year-old Declan Rice has barely missed a minute this season for the Hammers, featuring in 26 of West Ham’s 27 Premier League games, and the duo have formed an excellent partnership as Moyes looks to finish the season well in a European spot. They were labeled as the “best midfield duo in the league”, last campaign by Jason Cundy.
With the potential absence of Soucek, this could mean a rare start for Alex Kral, who has featured just once in the Premier League this season for the Hammers off the bench.
Rice being without his long-term midfield partner for a crunch clash against a high-flying Liverpool side may leave him worried as he looks to try and win the battle in the middle of the park.