Mike Dean reacts to Tomas Soucek controversy in West Ham v Manchester City.

Mike Dean reacts to Tomas Soucek controversy in West Ham v Manchester City.

Mike Dean has delivered his verdict as Tomas Soucek had a goal ruled out for handball as West Ham lost 3-1 to Manchester City on Sunday (19 May).

Man City took a quick 2-0 lead through Phil Foden before Mohammed Kudus’ phenomenal overhead kick gave the Hammers some hope, though that was deflated when Rodri hit the back of the net in the second half.
Soucek looked to have notched a second against Pep Guardiola’s side, firing home from close range with just two minutes of the game remaining but it was ruled out after a VAR check penalised him for handball.

Speaking live via Sky Sports on Sunday (19 May, 5:50pm), Dean reacted to the ruled-out goal, saying in a fit of laughter: “I think it’s a great punch.”

West Ham United miss chance to end David Moyes era with a bang
The Czechia international will have been devastated to see his eighth Premier League goal of the season ruled out, which could have also put pressure on Man City at the top of the table.

Despite recording a record-breaking fourth consecutive league title, it was not all smooth sailing for Man City at the Etihad on the final day, and another goal from Soucek would have put the cat amongst the pigeons.

With Kai Havertz handing Arsenal a late winner against Everton, and the Gunners only two points behind the Citizens before kick-off, hearts would have been in mouths if West Ham came within one goal with a few minutes left.

Unfortunately, it was not meant to be, ending Moyes’ tenure with the London side in defeat and finishing the season in ninth place, though it was the most expected outcome.

The Hammers gave a lot of fight to nearly score twice against the crowned champions, and fans who travelled all the way up to Manchester cannot be disheartened by that.

In other West Ham news, Nigel Reo-Coker believes Graham Potter would take West Ham United to the next level.