Tomas Soucek has received praise for his restrained celebration during West Ham’s 2-0 victory over Leicester City.
Soucek scored the first goal for West Ham on his 30th birthday, helping the team achieve consecutive Premier League wins for the first time since March.
Despite scoring the opening goal in front of the home fans, Soucek did not perform his signature celebration.
The Czech Republic player is known for his spinning celebration where he extends his arms, spins twice, and punches the air.
However, on this occasion, the midfielder chose not to do it, keeping his celebration low-key.
Soucek explained that he chose a more “gentlemanly” approach out of respect for Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, Leicester’s former owner.
Speaking after the game, he said, “I felt my normal helicopter celebration wasn’t appropriate given what happened to the Leicester owner.”
“I wanted to celebrate with my team, but also to show respect to our opponents.”
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha tragically died in a helicopter crash outside the King Power Stadium in 2018, along with four other people.
The crash occurred shortly after the helicopter took off from the stadium following a match between Leicester and West Ham.
Fans have praised Soucek for his considerate decision.
One fan commented online, “That really shows what kind of person he is, a true gentleman and a Hammer.”
Another added, “This proves he is the definition of a gentleman.”
And a third wrote, “A class act, both on and off the field.”
Soucek’s goal was followed by an own goal from Jannik Vestergaard just before halftime.
This victory brings Graham Potter’s West Ham team level on points with Manchester United and Tottenham in the league standings.
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 currently in 19th place, five points away from safety.
