Tomas Soucek, the West Ham player, has received praise for refraining from his usual exuberant celebration during West Ham’s 2-0 victory over Leicester City on Thursday.
Soucek scored the first goal for West Ham on his 30th birthday. This win marked the first time since March 2024 that the East London team has won two Premier League matches in a row.
Despite scoring the opening goal in front of a home crowd, Soucek chose not to perform his signature celebration.
The Czech Republic national player is famous for his spinning celebration, which involves stretching his arms out, spinning twice, and then punching the air.
However, on Thursday, the midfielder opted for a more subdued reaction, keeping his arms by his sides.
Soucek explained that he chose to alter his celebration out of respect for Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, Leicester City’s late owner, showing a mark of a true gentleman.
Speaking after the game, he said: “I felt that my usual ‘helicopter’ celebration would not be appropriate given the tragic events involving the Leicester owner.”
“I wanted to celebrate my goal with my teammates, but it was also important for me to show respect to our opponents.”
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the former owner of Leicester City, was among five people who tragically died in a helicopter crash near King Power Stadium in 2018.
The accident on October 27 occurred shortly after the helicopter took off from the stadium following a 1-1 draw between Leicester and West Ham.
Fans have praised Soucek for his thoughtful decision.
One fan commented online: “That really shows what kind of person he is, a true gentleman and a Hammer.”
Another added: “This is the definition of a true gentleman.”
And a third wrote: “A classy individual, both on and off the field.”
Soucek’s goal was followed by an own goal from Jannik Vestergaard just before halftime.
This victory puts Graham Potter’s West Ham team level on points with Manchester United in 14th place and Tottenham in 13th.
For Leicester, this defeat marks their 11th loss in the last 12 Premier League matches.
Relegation is becoming a serious threat for Ruud van Nistelrooy’s team, as they are now five points away from safety, sitting in 19th position.
Marcus Bellamy