Tomas Soucek has broken his silence after facing a wave of criticism from West Ham fans — a backlash that recently provoked a fierce defence from his close friend and former teammate, Vladimir Coufal.

The Czech midfielder, who has been one of the club’s most reliable players since joining nearly six years ago, has now spoken publicly about the situation, expressing both gratitude and determination amid West Ham’s ongoing struggles.

Soucek addresses fan criticism head-on

Soucek has never shied away from the physical demands of Premier League football, often putting his body on the line for the team. His latest battle scars came during Friday’s 2–1 defeat at Leeds, where he was left bloodied and required stitches after a clash.

However, it’s not the physical blows that have affected him most — it’s the emotional toll of fan criticism. Despite his consistent performances and commitment since arriving from Slavia Prague for just £15.5 million in January 2020, Soucek has increasingly found himself the target of frustration whenever results go against the Hammers.

Only Jarrod Bowen has arguably matched his consistency and contribution in recent seasons, yet many fans have begun to question whether Soucek still deserves a place in the starting XI. His missed header against Leeds only amplified the noise online, with one prominent West Ham fan account claiming he had “reached the end of the road” at the club.

Coufal leaps to Soucek’s defence

That post triggered an impassioned response from Vladimir Coufal — Soucek’s best friend and former teammate, now thriving in the Bundesliga with Hoffenheim. Coufal lashed out at the criticism, saying that those attacking Soucek “should have their internet access taken away.”

He went on to challenge West Ham supporters, asking whether they truly value players who give everything for the shirt, as Soucek undoubtedly does. Coufal’s words struck a chord with many fans, who recognised the leadership and standards that have been missing from the team since his departure.

Soucek’s classy message to fans

In the midst of the fallout, it almost went unnoticed that the Leeds match marked Soucek’s 200th Premier League appearance for West Ham — a milestone he celebrated with a heartfelt message on social media.

Posting on X, Soucek wrote:

“(Leeds) was my 200th Premier League match. I’m incredibly grateful for my journey with West Ham — full of amazing moments but also some disappointments.

Thank you all so much for your support, especially to the fans, whom I truly appreciate and share a special bond with.

I’m really sorry about our current situation. West Ham doesn’t belong where we are right now.

I’ll do everything I can to help turn things around and get West Ham United back where it belongs!!”

A true Hammer through and through

Soucek’s response is a reminder of the professionalism and humility that have defined his time in East London. Even when under fire, he continues to put the supporters first — focusing on unity rather than division.

While frustration among the fanbase is understandable given West Ham’s poor run of form, few players have shown the same level of dedication and resilience as Tomas Soucek. If anyone can help steer the club back in the right direction, it’s him.

A genuine leader, a tireless worker, and a model professional — Soucek remains everything a West Ham player should be.