“Back in the Mix — A Boost for the Hammers: How Tomáš Souček’s Return Could Shape the XI vs Brentford FC”
There’s encouraging news for West Ham United ahead of their upcoming fixture against Brentford: Tomáš Souček is fit and available again, giving head coach Graham Potter (or whichever manager is in place) more options in midfield. According to recent team‑news, Souček has completed his suspension, making him eligible for selection. (The Stats Zone)
Here’s how his return might impact the team, the likely formation and how the lineup could look.
✅ Why Souček’s return matters
- Souček brings a physical presence in midfield, with height, aerial strength and the ability to contribute defensively and offensively.
- His influence has often helped West Ham stabilise games — in previous encounters against Brentford he has scored important goals. (whufc.com)
- With him back, Potter can revert to a more balanced midfield structure rather than having to compensate for his absence.
Likely formation & starting XI vs Brentford
Given the latest injury and squad news, here is a projected lineup for West Ham (assuming no last‑minute injuries or tactical surprises):
Formation – 4‑2‑3‑1 / 4‑3‑3 variant
- Goalkeeper: Alphonse Areola
- Defence: Aaron Wan‑Bissaka (RB), Max Kilman (CB), Konstantinos Mavropanos (CB), Emerson (LB)
- Midfield double pivot: Tomáš Souček alongside Edson Álvarez (or another midfielder)
- Attacking midfield/wingers: Lucas Paquetá (in behind), Jarrod Bowen (wing) + maybe Mohammed Kudus or Carlos Soler
- Striker: Could be … (depending on availability) a forward like Michail Antonio or another fit front‑man
In short: Souček is reinstated into the midfield alongside the defensive shield and allows the attacking players more freedom.
Tactical implications
- With Souček back, West Ham can offer better protection to the back‑line, especially against Brentford’s transitional threats.
- His aerial ability means he can contribute to both defending wide areas and set‑pieces – useful in a fixture like this.
- Attacking players can push higher knowing Souček is providing a reliable presence behind them.
- If the opposition press aggressively (as Brentford often do), Souček’s experience in handling intensity will be crucial.
My predicted XI vs Brentford
Here’s how I’d line them up:
Areola
Wan‑Bissaka Kilman Mavropanos Emerson
Souček Álvarez
Bowen Paquetá Kudus
Striker
Bench options might include: James Ward‑Prowse, Carlos Soler, Andy Irving, Luis Guilherme.
Final thought
Souček’s return represents more than just one available body — it brings a psychological boost and greater strategic flexibility. For a home fixture against a team like Brentford, where sharpness and resilience matter, having him back could make a significant difference.
If you like, I can check the very latest injury list and provide a full predicted bench plus possible tactical variations for West Ham. Would you like me to do that?
