Ahead of West Ham United's Premier League tie at Newcastle United on Saturday, Tomáš Souček has the Last Word...
After wins over Derby County and Everton, there is more confidence around the place. I think we have prepared very well for this weekend’s game, especially after the win over Derby County. The atmosphere in training is very good, and I just hope we will carry on as we have done in the last two games.
That’s what it comes down to, ultimately: winning. Football is always about results, winning or losing the game is what matters. Yes, we can see if we play well or not, but the points are very important.
It’s why we are pleased with our start to the new year. We have lost just one game in 2023 against Brentford and also reached the fifth round of the FA Cup. We have made a good start but it's about Saturday now.
Newcastle have played really well this year. There is a reason why they are third in the table. I have watched them many times this year, but with how our game is going right now, we have a good chance to get points from them.
The last time we played at St James’ Park in 2021/22, we did just that. I remember scoring in the 4-2 win, a match where we came from behind – twice – to get the win. The goal I scored was extra special as my former Slavia Prague teammate, Martin Dúbravka, was in goal.
I also remember that atmosphere. St James’ Park is one of the loudest grounds in England. And with our away support - I know our fans will make themselves known too - the atmosphere on Saturday will be right up there with any I have played in.
We saw how good our away support was against Derby. We sold out the away end and were louder than the home fans almost! We as players feel that support on the pitch. It is a big part of the game and this Club too, and I hope that support continues on Saturday.
We will do everything we can on the pitch, and hopefully, we can all celebrate a win after!