West Ham United midfielder Tomáš Souček is closing in on an earlier-than-expected return from injury, with the Championship clash against Millwall emerging as a realistic comeback target.
The Czech international has been sidelined since suffering ankle ligament damage at the World Cup, initially leaving West Ham facing the prospect of being without him until after the first international break of the season.
That outlook has improved considerably.
Tomas Soucek targeting West Ham return against Millwall
Souček has progressed sufficiently to return to light work at Rush Green and has recently been pictured back on the training pitches.
The West Ham Way previously reported that the 31-year-old was recovering well enough to target the away fixture against Millwall on 19 September for his comeback.
That would represent a significant improvement on the initial expectations surrounding his injury.
More recent information has provided further encouragement.
Hammers News reported after speaking to a West Ham source that Souček could potentially receive some minutes before the international break if his progress in training continues.
West Ham are understandably reluctant to take unnecessary risks with such an experienced member of Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad.
Tonight’s trip to Bolton looks too early for the midfielder, but the games that follow give the medical staff several opportunities to assess his progress.
Millwall return would hand Nuno major midfield boost
West Ham face Wrexham on Friday before travelling to Fulham and then Millwall.
A return at The Den would therefore give Souček additional recovery time while still potentially bringing him back considerably earlier than initially feared.
The timing could be important for Nuno.
West Ham are currently navigating the demanding run of fixtures that could force changes to Nuno’s side, making midfield depth increasingly valuable.
Arne Engels has made an encouraging start to life in east London, while Divine Mukasa and Lewis Orford provide younger alternatives.
Souček would bring something different.
His aerial ability, physical presence and threat from set-pieces could become particularly effective in the Championship, while his experience gives Nuno another established leader during the promotion push.
There is little reason for West Ham to rush him back simply to hit a specific date.
However, the progression from fears of a lengthy absence to a potential September return represents a significant boost.
Our West Ham fixtures and results guide shows just how quickly the matches are arriving, with the Millwall derby coming only 11 days after tonight’s trip to Bolton.
If Souček continues progressing as expected, 19 September could now mark his return to competitive action.
