Soucek injury could mean extended run for West Ham maestro Fornals

By Tom Procter

West Ham United have been dealt an unfortunate injury blow, with January loan signing Tomas Soucek ruled out for the next few weeks.

According to the club’s official website, the midfielder is set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a hip flexor injury which is described as ‘low grade’.

(Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)

Soucek was making his third start for the club against Liverpool when his evening was cut short.

It is a big frustration for Hammers fans, who have enjoyed Soucek’s first few outings in a West Ham shirt.

Against Manchester City, the Czech Republic international covered 13.1km which was the highest distance managed by any West Ham player for six years (Evening Express).

His energy is going to be missed, but Soucek’s injury could potentially provide an opening for a man who needs a run in the side in Pablo Fornals.

TBR’s view – Fornals’ time to shine

Fornals – who cost a reported £24 million (BBC Sport) – was the man who replaced Soucek at Anfield, and he helped himself to a goal shortly after coming on for his teammate.

(Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)

Perhaps that might have sent a message to manager David Moyes, who bizarrely left the hard-working Spaniard out completely against City.

Fornals operating as an advanced midfielder with Declan Rice and Mark Noble sitting could have the potential to hurt teams.

He’s played a lot on the wings in his debut season, but a central role might just suit him better, and he can help support striker Sebastien Haller.