Tomáš Souček news is once again making headlines, but this time it’s not about Everton’s summer interest — it’s his role with the Czech Republic that is under scrutiny. The West Ham United midfielder, long-time skipper of his national side, has been branded ‘by far the worst player’ in the 2-0 win over Montenegro, sparking fresh debate over whether his captaincy has run its course.
According to Czech outlet Medium.cz, Souček’s leadership has become ‘exhausted’ after five years with the armband. While he avoided defensive errors, his display was seen as flat, with claims that he ‘often spoiled the pass’ and offered little going forward. In a side pushing to stay competitive ahead of Euro 2026 qualifiers, critics believe a more dynamic leader is now needed.
This comes at a delicate time for the 29-year-old, who only weeks ago was linked with a move to Everton, where David Moyes reportedly wanted a reunion. Instead, Souček chose to stay in east London and continue working under Graham Potter at West Ham, who themselves have endured a shaky start to the Premier League season. Is this a sign his influence is waning both internationally and domestically?
Why Souček’s Role for Czech Republic is Under Fire
The heart of the criticism lies in his lack of attacking impact. Analysts argue that Souček, once renowned for his box-to-box drive, is now ‘practically invisible’. He registered no meaningful attacking contributions against Montenegro, frequently losing possession and slowing transitions.
Medium.cz didn’t mince words, insisting:
“He was by far the worst player on the pitch and the captain’s armband is slowly becoming unbecoming of him.” — Medium.cz
Could Ladislav Krejčí Replace Him?
Calls are growing for Wolves summer signing Ladislav Krejčí to inherit the armband. At 26, Krejčí has established himself as a combative leader and impressed early in the Premier League since his Girona move. His physicality, pressing energy, and vocal style are being hailed as the qualities the Czech set-up is lacking.
Whether the federation makes such a bold call remains to be seen, but the shift in narrative is stark: from Souček as indispensable, to Souček as expendable.
Souček’s Recent Numbers
| Stat (2024/25) | Tomáš Souček |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 38 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Pass Accuracy | –% |
source: sofascore match data – 6 September 2025
While his scoring return was solid for a midfielder, critics argue his international form no longer mirrors his club productivity. Numbers suggest he remains a key contributor at West Ham, but in Czech colours, the gap is widening.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes the debate reflects a broader tactical issue:
Souček thrives in a double-pivot where he can time late runs into the box. With the Czech Republic adopting a more possession-heavy style, his off-ball movement is less relevant, leaving him exposed. His quiet personality also makes it harder to inspire younger teammates in high-pressure fixtures.
John adds that Krejčí’s Premier League experience could fast-track a generational shift: his vocal presence and defensive aggression fit the Czech side’s evolving identity. For Souček, unless he adapts quickly, his international influence risks being overshadowed by the next wave.
Key Insights
- Souček labelled ‘practically invisible’ in win over Montenegro.
- Medium.cz call for him to be stripped of Czech captaincy.
- Wolves’ Ladislav Krejčí tipped as successor.
- Everton’s summer interest shows Souček still rated in England.
- West Ham midfielder remains a starter under Graham Potter.
What’s Next?
Souček is expected to start again in the Czech Republic’s next qualifier, but mounting pressure could force the manager’s hand if performances don’t improve. A decision on the captaincy could be made before the crucial autumn fixtures.
At club level, West Ham face a tough run of games including Arsenal and Aston Villa. If Souček can rediscover his Premier League scoring touch, it may silence critics abroad — but failure to do so could add to the sense that his peak influence has passed.
👉 Should Tomáš Souček lose the Czech Republic captaincy, or does he still deserve time to prove himself?
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