CZECH MATE
Irons star Soucek admits he is so emotional about ‘home final’
WEST HAM star Tomas Soucek admits there will be plenty of tears this week on an emotional homecoming to Prague.
And that is before a ball is even kicked in the Hammers’ Europa Conference League Final against Italian club Fiorentina.
Soucek rose to prominence in the Czech Republic with Slavia Prague, signing off in 2018-19 with a league and cup double.
So, to be returning to his beloved Fortuna Arena on Wednesday for West Ham’s biggest game in almost 50 years is about as good as it gets. Understandably.
Revealing what the occasion will mean to his parents, in particular, midfielder Soucek, 28, said: “They did so much for me when I was young without knowing what would happen afterwards.
“And I am so proud I can pay them back in every way.
“They come to London quite a lot to watch games – but for me to come back here with West Ham is even more special for them.
“I think they will be crying lots seeing me on the pitch.
“I’d cry wherever we were playing, but to be at this stadium is massive. It’s like two homes for me.
“I am with West Ham and was a Slavia player for 15 years. I joined at 10. I have lots of family and friends there. I can connect the two teams.
“It will be very emotional for me when we arrive. We’re in the home changing room.
“I know every single piece of that room and will speak to our kitman to make sure I have the same seat.
“I have so many good memories of celebrating and winning trophies in there.”
The 20,000-strong claret-and-blue army heading to Prague – the vast majority without a ticket for the inadequate 19,000-capacity venue – will pray that is a positive omen.
The Hammers are desperate to finish a turbulent season on an historic high by winning their first silverware since the 1980 FA Cup and first European trophy since the
Cup Winners’ Cup in 1965. At least boss David Moyes (right) and his men will feel at home, thanks to the presence of 6ft 4in Soucek and his compatriot Vladimir Coufal in the team.
“A lot of tickets are going to Czech citizens because of UEFA rules,” Soucek explained. “About 90 percent will support West Ham because they really follow us. It’s nearly like playing at home.” Soucek’s form, like many at the London Stadium, dipped at times during a campaign fighting relegation. One man, though, who has continued to truly excel is partner Declan Rice in the engine room.
The Fiorentina showdown looks certain to be the West Ham skipper’s final appearance before a £100million-plus summer exit.
“I don’t know many better in his position, but, let’s be honest, he needs to win something to be the best,” said Soucek
“Now Declan has that chance to lift that trophy.”