Lopetegui’s Masterplan Unlocks Hammers Midfielder’s Potential

The Czech international midfielder has returned from his extended summer holidays with fellow countryman Vladimir Coufal and Hammers striker Michail Antonio, as they all joined their West Ham teammates in Florida for pre-season.

Soucek has become the latest to share his excitement of playing under Lopetegui, with much anticipation already building for the campaign which is fast approaching.

“I’m stoked to be back and full of energy,” Soucek told the clubs Official Website. “Now, obviously, everything is new with a new manager, a new staff and a few signings as well. The guys are all excited, so I just came with a great mood and am happy to start again with another pre-season

“It was enough time because we know that we have to come to get ready for the first game of the Premier League because it’s in four weeks, so it’s coming very quickly. We all want to be ready and we know how the start is important. We know that we came back at the right time.”

The Czech midfielder, who is known for his combative style in the middle of the pitch, has suggested a more possession based outlook for our Hammers this season and beyond is something that will suit him well.

“I have a different role with Czech Republic than I did before at West Ham, and it’s similar to the role I had at Slavia Prague, so I love this role,” he added. “It’s a lot with the ball, I like to play from the goalkeepers and be the heart of the team, so that’s what I love.

“Now there is also a new manager here and I’m here just for the first few hours, but I hope that I will get to connect with him and also he will tell me the job he wants to do, and I will be the right choice for him.

“I will do the maximum to show him that I’m the right choice for West Ham in these positions to play in the midfield, so I look forward to the fresh [start] because it’s always something different”

“The messages I have had from the guys said all of them are enjoying the sessions and enjoying how the football will be, so I hope that it will be like that from now with me as well and we go for it.”