Moyes gives big captaincy clue

David Moyes has still to name his next captain following the Declan Rice transfer and yesterday handed a clue as to who it might be.

And his decision to hand the armband to Tomas Soucek for the match at Dagenham&Redbridge could ensure that he kills two birds with one stone.

For the defensive midfielder, who was a near regular over the last two seasons, is looking for an improved deal and is almost certain to get one should he take on the role vacated by the £105 million departure.

He is of course also skipper of the Czech Republic and is an obvious candidate to take over the role for the 2023/24 season which starts for the Hammers away at Bournemouth.

Soucek was making his return to action after the summer break as he and fellow Hammers internationals drew 2-2 against the near neighbours

Moyes made it clear at a presser during the Down Under tour that he would be making a decision and it seems Tomas is one of the leading candidates.