'Way more important than many think' - Journalist wowed by 'criticised' West Ham man vs Man City

West Ham United colossus Tomas Soucek has been praised by journalist Toby Cudworth during their clash with Premier League title contenders Manchester City this afternoon.

David Moyes’ side were seeking to disrupt the Sky Blues’ mission to retain their top-flight crown and took a sensational 2-0 lead before half-time courtesy of a brace from star winger Jarrod Bowen.

Putting in a solid and tireless performance throughout, the Irons were undone over the second 45 minutes as City mounted a fightback. Jack Grealish halved the deficit and a Vladimir Coufal own goal gifted Pep Guardiola hope of an unbelievable comeback, and they could well have clinched one after being awarded a spot-kick late in the match.

However, Riyad Mahrez saw his resulting penalty saved by Lukasz Fabianski, denying the visitors all three points as both teams went on to share the spoils.

Writing on Twitter, Cudworth has raved over Soucek’s role in this West Ham team despite him being ‘criticised’ at points over the season.

Drawing particular attention to the Czech midfielder’s involvement in Bowen’s second goal of the match, the journalist explained:

“Lovely to see Soucek play a big role in #WHUFC’s second goal – has been criticised of late but he adds huge value when he wins flick-ons and operates close to Antonio and Bowen. Way more important than many think.”

According to WhoScored, the Czech Republic international ranks in the top five West Ham players going by average match rating per 90 in the top flight this term.

Before today’s action, he had also won more aerial duels per 90 than any of his team-mates, with only mainstays Declan Rice and Lukasz Fabianski playing more league minutes this season (WhoScored).

He was quietly effective for the Irons