**West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek is expected to be suspended for the next three games following his sending off against Tottenham.**
The Czech international’s red card has been deemed “serious foul play” by the Premier League, which means he will receive an automatic three-match ban.
Soucek caught Joao Palhinha with his studs, and the Hammers are not expected to appeal the decision.
It is another big blow for head coach Graham Potter, who is [**under mounting pressure**](https://hammersheadlines.com/west-ham-manager-news-graham-potter-williams/) following the 3-0 defeat to Spurs.
Which games will Soucek miss?
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The 30-year-old will not be in the matchday squad for the crucial home fixture against Crystal Palace this weekend. It is regarded as a ‘must-win’ game for Potter, after losing 4 of his first 5 matches in all competitions.
Soucek will also be unavailable for the trip to Everton a week on Monday, as well as the game against Arsenal at the start of next month – just before the next international break. He will only be able to return for the home match versus Brentford on October 20th.
Who will take the West Ham midfielder’s place in the starting XI?
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The top candidate is Soungoutou Magassa. The France international was signed from Monaco for an initial £14.5m at the end of August. However, despite his reputation as a strong holding midfield player, Potter opted to leave him on the bench last weekend.
Magassa could capitalise on Soucek’s absence and establish himself as a regular starter over the coming weeks. His presence in the middle of the park could aid the club’s chances of securing a much-needed three points against Palace on Saturday.
The Irons have conceded eight goals in their first two home fixtures this season, and Potter desperately needs to see some improvement from his team.
[**Read more about the West Ham First Team Squad for 2025/26 here**](https://hammersheadlines.com/west-ham-first-team-squad/)