West Ham United have secured back-to-back Premier League victories, following up their win against Newcastle United with a hard-fought 3-2 triumph over Burnley at the London Stadium on Saturday.
Nuno's 'Nightmare' Soucek Delivers Super-Sub Impact
The match saw manager Nuno Espirito Santo heap praise on midfielder Tomas Soucek, who entered the fray as a substitute and dramatically influenced the outcome. The 30-year-old Czech international was introduced after young midfielder Freddie Potts suffered a dead leg.
Soucek made an immediate impact, displaying sharp instincts to poke the ball home after Burnley goalkeeper Martin Dubravka failed to hold a shot from Lucas Paqueta. The midfielder was also involved in West Ham's third goal, with his subsequent attempt leading to Kyle Walker-Peters finding the net.
Speaking after the final whistle, an impressed Nuno shared his long-standing admiration for the player. "I've played Thomas, I've played West Ham, many times and every time I was analysing it, it was a nightmare," Nuno stated. "How do you control Thomas getting in the box? He recognises the space and he has belief that not many players have. So good."
Nuno also highlighted Soucek's significant milestone of 250 appearances for the club, adding, "It's huge. You cannot have anything else but respect and love for Tomas." Soucek's performance was rated an 8/10 by Hammers News, which noted his "poacher's instinct" and celebrated his second goal in as many games.
Paqueta Suspension Overshadows Victory
The victory, however, was marred by a significant setback for the team's upcoming fixture. Key playmaker Lucas Paqueta received his fifth yellow card of the season during the match, triggering an automatic one-match suspension.
This means the Brazilian, who has started every league game this campaign, will be unavailable for West Ham's next Premier League encounter against AFC Bournemouth on November 22. The booking against Burnley adds to previous cautions received against Crystal Palace, Arsenal, Leeds United, Newcastle United, and Brentford.
Nuno will be relieved to have Paqueta back for the subsequent high-profile match against Liverpool on November 30. The suspension serves as a warning for other squad members, with Max Kilman and Crysencio Summerville both currently on three bookings this term.
Looking Ahead for the Hammers
This mixed bag of results leaves West Ham in a positive yet cautious position as the league pauses for the international break. The emergence of Soucek as a potent super-sub provides a valuable tactical option, but the absence of the creative Paqueta against Bournemouth presents a clear challenge.
The team's ability to secure consecutive wins builds momentum, but navigating the suspension of a key player will be the next test for Nuno Espirito Santo's side as they aim to climb the Premier League table.
