There always seems to be a sentiment among West Ham fans that Tomáš Souček doesn't get enough credit for all he's accomplished in East London. The towering Czech midfielder who arrived on loan in January 2020 has become one of those players you can't imagine the club without. At 30 years old (as of February 2026), with his contract running until 2027, Soucek embodies the grit, loyalty, and occasional magic that define the Irons. But here's the big question splitting the fanbase: Is he a West Ham legend in the making... or has he already sealed it?
Souček joined from Slavia Prague on an initial loan, making his debut in a chaotic 3-3 draw with Brighton. He scored three goals in 13 PL games that half-season before making the move permanent for around £21m. Early on, he was raw – a box-to-box beast with endless stamina, aerial dominance (he's 6'4"), and a knack for late runs into the box. José Mourinho once compared him to Marouane Fellaini for his physicality and set-piece threat.
By the end of 2020/21, Soucek was unstoppable: 10 Premier League goals (joint-top scorer with Michail Antonio), leading the team in shots, tackles, aerial duels won, and interceptions. He won Hammer of the Year and his second Czech Footballer of the Year award. That was the start of something special.
Peak Soucek: Goals, Glory, and Clutch Moments
Souček's highlight reel is packed with heroic moments. Remember his winner at Everton on New Year's Day 2021? Or the brace at Crystal Palace? In 2023, he started the Europa Conference League final (2-1 vs Fiorentina) as West Ham claimed their first major trophy in 43 years – a moment that cemented his status for many.
He's racked up 43 goals in 258 appearances for the club (217 PL apps, 39 Premier League goals as of February13, 2026). That latest one? A near-post flick vs Manchester United in a 1-1 draw, making him the outright highest-scoring Czech in Premier League history, surpassing Patrik Berger. He's scored on his birthday (twice!), bagged late winners against Forest, Burnley, Arsenal, and more. Under managers from Moyes to Lopetegui, Potter, and now Nuno Espírito Santo, he's been a constant – often captain when Jarrod Bowen was absent.
In 2024/25 alone, he hit 9 PL goals, climbing the club's all-time Premier League scorers list (past Andy Carroll, level with others). His autobiography Suk (November 2025) opened up about mental health battles – insomnia, depression – showing the human side behind the machine.
Still the Workhorse in a Tough Season
This season has been rocky for West Ham – relegation scraps, defensive woes, and fan frustration. Souček has played 23 PL games (1,171 minutes), scoring 3 goals with solid defensive numbers (tackles, interceptions, aerials). He got a straight red vs Tottenham in September (leading to a three-game ban and a dip in results), but bounced back with key contributions. He's still the guy managers trust: tireless, selfless, and popping up with vital headers or shots.
He's won titles with Slavia (two leagues, two cups) and the Conference League. On an international level he's captained the Czech team since 2021. His nation's trust in him has been repaid with 87 caps and 17 goals.
The Great Debate: Scapegoat or Saint?
No player polarises quite like Souček. One camp (and there are plenty of articles backing this) calls him a legend already: The other side? Some fans boo, scapegoat him during slumps, criticise his passing, or "one-speed" play. Videos and podcasts discuss how he's gone from fan favourite to "most hated but loved." Even his former teammate, Vladimir Coufal, once called out fans for unfair criticism.
He's the ultimate Marmite player: endless running, headers, blocks... but not always silky. Yet he's been ultra-consistent since 2020, loyal through ownership drama and managerial chaos, and delivered when it mattered most.
Tomas The Legend
Bobby Moore, Paolo Di Canio, Trevor Brooking – legends come in many forms. Souček isn't a silky genius like some, but he's the heart, lungs, and often the goals of this team for six+ years. 39 PL goals from primarily a defensive midfield position? A European trophy? Clutch moments galore? Loyalty that never wavers? That's Hammers DNA.
In a club fighting for survival in 2025/26, he's still putting his body on the line. When it's all said and done, the London Stadium will sing his name. He's not "in the making" – he's already there. For his constant fortitude and commitment, Souček plays as much as he wants. When fans question whether he gets enough accolades, you don't have to look any further than the playing time he does get. Despite younger and possibly more talented options like Freddie Potts and Soungoutou Magassa pressing to get into the first squad, Nuno has continued to make Souček a mainstay. That's his biggest reward. He has built unwavering trust with his coaches and the fans and hasn't taken his position for granted.
So is Tomas a living legend? Whether you are are ready to deem him so, he has already done the work.