West Ham United star Tomas Soucek needs to rediscover his best form but is likely to retain his starting spot when Wolverhampton Wanderers head to the London Stadium after the international break, according to journalist Paul Brown.

The Hammers spent more than £160million during the summer transfer window, but David Moyes' side have been underwhelming in the early stages of the season.

GiveMeSport The Verdict

GiveMeSport The Verdict

What's the latest news involving Soucek?

Although Soucek has contributed two goals and an assist in 10 appearances since the campaign got underway last month, he has been unable to stop West Ham going into the international break sitting in the Premier League's relegation zone.

The Hammers' latest setback came in the form of a 1-0 defeat at Everton on Sunday and captain Declan Rice showed his frustrations towards his central midfield partner following a misplaced pass late in the contest.

Brown has previously told GIVEMESPORT that Soucek's early season form is of concern as he has not been churning out consistently high performances for a prolonged period of time.

There were doubts over the 27-year-old's West Ham future during the summer as it emerged the capital club were willing to listen to offers in the £30million region after failing to negotiate a new contract.

Although a move away from the London Stadium failed to come to fruition, there were suggestions that Soucek was involving in a bust-up with Moyes in May.

What has Paul Brown said about Soucek?

Although Brown believes Soucek's performances need to improve quickly, he feels the Czech Republic international is not being put under pressure by alternative central midfield options.

As a result, the journalist is expecting Soucek to remain in West Ham's starting line-up for the home clash with Wolves on October 1.

Brown told GIVEMESPORT: "He really needs to start producing. Because they didn't sign a major name in his position, I don't think his position is too under threat now at West Ham.

"Maybe that's a bit too cosy and safe for him, but he certainly needs to start performing."

Who could replace Soucek in midfield?

If he is dropped, the most obvious candidate to come in for Soucek is Flynn Downes, who completed a £12million switch from Championship side Swansea City during the summer.

The 23-year-old has only been handed one minute of Premier League action since his move to east London, although he played the full 90 minutes as West Ham overcame FCSB in their Europa Conference League group stage opener earlier this month.

Conor Coventry, who has been afforded limited opportunities during the early stages of the season, is another alternative option for Moyes.