PA Media/dpa
London
West Ham United midfielder Tomas Soucek insists manager David Moyes has done an “incredible” job at the club.
Moyes has come under fire from some supporters again this season despite the Hammers lying seventh in the Premier League.
The Scot also led West Ham to a first trophy in 43 years with last season’s Europa Conference League success, and they continue their latest continental campaign against Freiburg on Thursday night in the Europa League.
“You can see the results, what he has done, finishing sixth and seventh in the Premier League,” said Czech Republic international Soucek.
“Now we are in Europe three times in a row for the first time in the club’s history.
“The job he has done is incredible. I am so happy I could be part of that, to help to create history.
“The manager does an important job and I think he has done very well the last few years and this year as well.”
Soucek also leapt to the defence of fellow midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who has had a difficult start to his loan spell at West Ham following 18 months of bench-warming for Manchester City.
The 28-year-old was at fault for goals in his first two appearances, sent off on his fourth and then subbed at half-time in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Burnley.
“I see him every day,” said Soucek. “He plays in good form in the sessions but it is very difficult for him, because after maybe two years at Manchester City, and for any player who doesn’t play that often it’s very difficult to play in the games.
“It’s difficult for him but we all support him, we are with him. He’s a hard worker, which I like. I like his style and wish him all the best for the future. He’s an important player for us, and he’s a very good player.”
The Hammers are 1-0 down from the first leg in Germany, the same situation they were in at the same stage of the same competition against Sevilla two years ago.
“We’ve got good experience from games like that, but we’ve also got lots of internationals in the team now as well,” said Moyes.
“I think we’re all still learning with every game in this competition, and we’ll do everything we can to get through to the quarter-finals.” There are fears some supporters may struggle to get to the match due to the earlier kick-off time of 5.45pm.
“We’re a goal down. You need your home support,” added Moyes.
“In this country we’re not used to it. But on the other side maybe kids can get to the game earlier. Years ago everyone worked nine to five but I believe there’s more flexi-hours. So it might be a great kick-off time.”
