WEST HAM took a big step towards securing Tomas Soucek permanently with their win over Chelsea.
The Czech midfielder is on loan with the Irons until the end of the season.
Tomas Soucek scored a vital goal as the Hammers downed rivals Chelsea – and West Ham are now closing in on a permanent dealCredit: Andy Hooper
But a clause in the deal states impressive Soucek will automatically become West Ham’s man full time unless they are relegated.
And Wednesday’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Chelsea has given them a three-point cushion above the drop zone with six games to play.
If they survive, Soucek will sign a four-year contract, with West Ham paying a transfer fee of around £15million.
Soucek’s goal against Chelsea at London Stadium ended his misery in front of goal.
He earlier had an effort ruled out by a controversial VAR decision that left boss David Moyes “spewing”.
Soucek, 25, also put through his own net in last week’s 2-0 defeat at Spurs.
Wednesday’s win was West Ham’s first since the season resumed.
Soucek said: “I’m very happy. I was in the changing room and everyone is very happy.
“We have had to wait a long time for a win and, during the season suspension, it was a tough, long time.
“We won against a very good team and we are very happy. We now need to get more points in our coming games.”
He added: “I was a bit angry because in the last game I scored an own goal after a handball and then, against Chelsea, I scored and I think Michail didn’t touch the ball.
“But then luck was on our side and I was able to score my first goal for West Ham ten minutes later.” Hammers chiefs have liked Soucek’s physicality and how quickly he has adapted to English football following his move from Slavia Prague in January.
Soucek said: “I’m excited for the next game. We need points and now we have two recovery days before we go to Newcastle, which we look forward to.
“For us, it is a better situation now.”
Midfielder Declan Rice was made captain in the absence of injured Mark Noble at West Ham’s empty ground.
Rice said: “The only thing I could say is I wish the fans were here to witness that.
“We know it hasn’t been good enough as a team recently but this showed the fans we do care, we do work hard and we have got quality.
“Everything emphasised what we are all about — grit, desire, hard work.
“And there wasn’t one of the lads who didn’t give everything.
“It’s a deserved three points. It’s special.”
Lampard denies Chelsea were ‘let down by the defenders’ despite his team succumbing to shock 3-2 defeat to West Ham, squandering chance to go third in Premier League
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
