West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek says he is delighted to have won the Czech Republic’s Footballer of the Year award.

The 25-year-old had an excellent first half of the campaign with Slavia Prague, and he has continued on that form at West Ham. After picking up the prize handed out by the Czech FA, Soucek said he never dreamed he would be in the running for such an accolade:

“When I was a little boy, I dreamed of winning football. I wanted to play in the first division or abroad. I never thought that I would win the poll. I really appreciate that and the recognition gives me strength for the next few years.”

Soucek has already made a good impression during his short time at the London Stadium, having reportedly impressed the club’s coaching staff enough to be in contention to succeed Mark Noble as captain.

The Czech international is still only on loan with the Hammers, but the deal can be made permanent for around £13m at the end of the season.

Soucek’s intention is to remain in the Premier League with the midfielder having stated that he has wanted to play in England since he was a kid:

“I think the step is right because I want to try my options abroad. I also loved the Premier League as a child. West Ham is a traditional London club with a beautiful stadium. It’s a big challenge for me.”