First Team Squad
Player profile and performance records.
Vladimir Coufal (Defender)
Vladimir Coufal
Ostrava, CzechoslovakiaPosition: Defender
Born: 22nd Aug 1992 (Ostrava, Czechoslovakia)
Signed: 2nd Oct 2020 (£5,500,000)
Contract: 3 years + 1 year option (signed October 2021)
Previous Club: Slavia Prague
KUMB Awards: None.
Signed having been recommended to West Ham by former Prague team mate Tomas Soucek, Coufal arrived at West Ham as the club's first signing of the 2020 summer transfer window.
Little more than a year after arriving at the club, and having enjoyed a thoroughly-successful first season in east London, he put pen to paper on an extended three-year contract with an option for an extra year (in October 2021).
vs Chelsea
1-2: Monday, 3rd February(Played 72 minutes)
Looked much more comfortable in this game and it's a performance that lets Potter know that Coufal may be more than just an option to give Wan-Bissaka a rest.
vs Aston Villa
1-1: Saturday, 25th January(Played 90 minutes)
Those first 10 minutes saw Coufal lost like a rabbit in the headlights, but when The Hammers got into the Villa half and spent more time with possession and attacks, Coufal played well in the role supporting Wan-Bissaka down the right. A little limited with some punts down the line.
vs Fulham
3-2: Tuesday, 14th JanuaryDid not play.
vs Southampton
1-0: Thursday, 26th December(Emerson 88) A rare sixth sub, granted as a result of the concussion injury to Fabianski, saw the experienced Coufi come on for the final few minutes to aid the defence.
vs AFC Bournemouth
1-1: Saturday, 14th December(Played 90 minutes)
Slotted in very well, and it's going to be interesting to see what the manager does with Emerson returning. Will the side look so balanced?
vs Wolverhampton Wanderers
2-1: Saturday, 7th DecemberDid not play.
vs Leicester City
1-3: Tuesday, 3rd December(Played 62 minutes)
Easily exposed by pace down his flank regularly.
vs Arsenal
2-5: Saturday, 30th November(Played 25 minutes, sub)
(Emerson 65) Defended strongly.
vs Newcastle United
2-0: Saturday, 23rd November(Played 15 minutes, sub)
(Emerson 75) Whilst others came into a dead game and just had to keep it going until the result was secure, Vlad came in and still had a fight on. He won it, defending manfully.
vs Everton
0-0: Saturday, 9th November(Played 24 minutes, sub)
(Wan-Bissaka 66) Not many good moments, a nice booking and a long throw straight off the pitch.
vs Tottenham Hotspur
1-4: Saturday, 19th OctoberDid not play.
vs Ipswich Town
4-1: Saturday, 5th OctoberDid not play.
vs Brentford
1-1: Saturday, 28th SeptemberDid not play.
vs Liverpool
1-5: Wednesday, 25th September(Played 90 minutes)
vs Fulham
1-1: Saturday, 14th September(Played 33 minutes, sub)
(Replaced Emerson 57) Wasn't great with the ball, and struggled with Nelson at times, but his sharp thinking and that long throw down the line were crucial in the late equaliser.
vs Manchester City
1-3: Saturday, 31st August(Played 19 minutes, sub)
(Replaced Emerson, 71) Thrown on late and it didn't really work as the gamble just opened up space for City.
vs AFC Bournemouth
1-0: Wednesday, 28th August(Played 90 minutes)
A last-minute addition to the starting lineup, Coufal was fine without really making an impression.
vs Crystal Palace
2-0: Saturday, 24th August(Played 62 minutes)
That lack of pace was exposed a few times as Palace quickly countered into the space left behind as he pushed forward. It was made worse by Wan-Bissaka coming on and galloping past players like a gazelle.
vs Aston Villa
1-2: Saturday, 17th August(Played 90 minutes)
A couple good crosses, but he didn?EUR(TM)t seem to get up and down the flank. It might be that a slower passing system doesn?EUR(TM)t suit him, not because of deficiencies on the ball but because he is more used to a direct running game.
Manchester City
1-3: Sunday, 19th MayStuck to his task gamely but was mostly destroyed by Doku.
Liverpool
2-2: Saturday, 27th AprilCrystal Palace
2-5: Sunday, 21st AprilHe's not and never will be a wing back. He's nowhere near good enough on the ball, without the speed, touch or finesse in possession required. He wasn't good at right back, and this system helped the team defend better, but it's as clear a back five as you can get with Coufal as a wing back.
Bayer Leverkusen
1-1: Thursday, 18th AprilFaded more than others, as he has after the hour in most games recently, if reaching that mark at all. But combative, dealt with his defensive work, and again looked happier with Bowen in front of him.
Fulham
0-2: Saturday, 13th AprilFlat, and beaten too many times by Willian.
Bayer Leverkusen
0-2: Thursday, 11th AprilNever in bother in defence, but a good asset in attack. Looks more comfortable with Bowen ahead of him, and his direct passing was key to getting attacks moving quickly.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
2-1: Saturday, 6th AprilAwful on the ball when simple solutions were clear. Needed the rest.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
2-1: Saturday, 6th AprilAwful on the ball when simple solutions were clear. Needed the rest.
Tottenham Hotspur
1-1: Tuesday, 2nd AprilAfter a shaky start, really recovered to completely nullify Werner. It's a shame it came after being exposed by his pace a couple times, but that should have been the way of it throughout, yet he managed to make the German a non-factor.
Tottenham Hotspur
1-1: Tuesday, 2nd AprilShould have done better to deal with Timo Werner for the opening goal but kept him quiet for the rest of the game.
Newcastle United
3-4: Saturday, 30th MarchThe challenge on Gordon for the penalty is just a bit dumb, reacting to his moving foot by throwing his own out and ending up suckered right in. He continued to make unforced errors throughout the game, couldn't get to grips with neither Gordon nor Barnes, plays the latter onside for the equalising goal, and could have given away a couple in the first half from positions of no pressure. Vlad has had a decent season, but he still lacks a little bit of this and a little bit of that for a truly top class right back.
Newcastle United
3-4: Saturday, 30th MarchCouldn't deal with Gordon or Barnes throughout the game and didn't pose a threat down the other end.
Newcastle United
3-4: Saturday, 30th MarchCouldn't deal with Gordon or Barnes throughout the game and didn't pose a threat down the other end.
Aston Villa
1-1: Saturday, 16th MarchJust seems to play better with Bowen in front of him. Gives him the freedom of the whole right channel, and he made use of it. Great cross, unlucky not to score, and rampaged all day.
SC Freiburg
5-0: Thursday, 14th MarchNever in bother in defence, but a good asset in attack. Looks more comfortable with Bowen ahead of him, and his direct passing was key to getting attacks moving quickly.
Burnley
2-2: Sunday, 10th MarchA solid performance from the Czech international who found himself in some good positions to cross throughout the game.
Burnley
2-2: Sunday, 10th MarchGot up and down the line all game, and wasn't at all given the support necessary from a Premier League team when Cullen overlapped on the first goal. He cannot control the dropping standards of the midfield there.
SC Freiburg
0-1: Thursday, 7th MarchDefended reasonably well, but didn’t get forward to an effective degree.
Brentford
4-2: Monday, 26th FebruaryGood service from the wing, the full backs released and more confident going forward than they have been for a few games. One assist, more chances created, and defended the wide areas well.
Nottingham Forest
0-2: Saturday, 17th FebruaryHe was run ragged by Hudson-Odoi and didn't provide any attacking support.
Nottingham Forest
0-2: Saturday, 17th FebruaryBested by Hudson-Odoi, whose ability to go at pace either way was enough to limit Coufal. His pace also meant the full back seemed scare going forward and wasn’t a presence on the wing as he should be, and often is.
Arsenal
0-6: Sunday, 11th FebruaryAnother goal from a set-piece where he's committed a foul after a mistake, and committed a foul with anger and malice. The least of our worries at the back.
Arsenal
0-6: Sunday, 11th FebruaryPoor once again, his crosses are not good enough for a modern wing-back and his defensive play was terrible.
Manchester United
0-3: Saturday, 3rd FebruaryRashford was quiet, and whilst that wasn't notably down to Coufal, the job was done defensively on that side. But he didn't make a massive contribution at either end of the pitch.
Sheffield United
2-2: Sunday, 21st JanuaryUnlucky though he may have been to go, but was also foolish and took the risk. But he did create good chances, so it was not an awful showing.
Bristol City
0-1: Tuesday, 16th JanuaryPoor on the night. Seemed more concerned by the physical confrontation than playing his game.
Bristol City
0-1: Tuesday, 16th JanuaryLink-up play with Maxwel Cornet down the right hand side was ineffective and when he did get the chance to cross, the delivery was poor.
Bristol City
1-1: Sunday, 7th JanuaryDefended well before being taken off, especially considering it appeared as if the City players were trying to wind him up.
Arsenal
2-0: Tuesday, 26th DecemberMartinelli looked a shadow of the player he can be. Some absolutely vital back post headers, and he was really strong in the air throughout. Slightly let down by the amount he gave the ball away, too readily just slinging a ball down the line, managing a 39% pass success rate.
Arsenal
2-0: Tuesday, 26th DecemberA robust performance from the Czech international and kept Gabriel Martinelli quiet even though he normally has a good game against West Ham.
Manchester United
2-0: Saturday, 23rd DecemberFeathers barely ruffled due to the visitors' impotent attacking unit, a much more comfortable game than at Anfield on Wednesday.
Liverpool
1-5: Wednesday, 20th DecemberThe least under-performing defender in the team, which shouldn't necessarily be considered a compliment.
Liverpool
1-5: Wednesday, 20th DecemberNever noticed him in the game and wasn’t really at fault for any of the goals.
Freiburg
2-0: Thursday, 14th DecemberManaged his flank well, and kept Sallai quiet, whilst offering a threat in the final third.
Fulham
0-5: Saturday, 9th DecemberCreated a few half chances and was never exposed like either left back was.
Tottenham Hotspur
2-1: Tuesday, 5th DecemberGood defensive work from the Czech international whilst also getting into some good attacking positions.
Tottenham Hotspur
2-1: Tuesday, 5th DecemberHe's an incredible workhorse down the flank, managing to be an excellent defensive right back whilst always offering support to his winger. Handled the pace on his side well, making Johnson a non-entity in the game.
Crystal Palace
1-1: Saturday, 2nd DecemberGood vision to see Kudus for the opening goal and defended well against Jordan Ayew. That's 5 assists in the Premier League now for the Czech International which is 4 more than he got last season.
Nottingham Forest
3-2: Sunday, 12th NovemberElanga looked to have him beat and the early yellow made it tough. But Coufal adapted, and engaged in different positions so that his team could recover if the winger did beat him.
Nottingham Forest
3-2: Sunday, 12th NovemberCouldn't defend against Elanga and his crosses had no real aim to them.
Olympiacos
1-0: Thursday, 9th NovemberNeither of the full backs was able to provide much quality from wide areas. Olympiacos's best chance in the first half came from the left back flying past Coufal.
Olympiacos
1-0: Thursday, 9th NovemberDid well to deal with the threat of Daniel Podence and also provided an attacking threat.
Arsenal
3-1: Wednesday, 1st NovemberExcellent performance defensively and offensively. Kept Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli quiet whilst also playing the cross-in for Bowen's goal.
Arsenal
3-1: Wednesday, 1st NovemberYou know a full back has had a good game when you have to search your notes to work out who he was up against. Trossard was pocketed, Coufal was strong, and his forward running again forced a goal.
Everton
0-1: Saturday, 28th OctoberPoor crossing and generally looked uncomfortable on the ball.
Everton
0-1: Saturday, 28th OctoberFailed to provide anything useful going forward.
Aston Villa
1-4: Saturday, 21st OctoberGot into some great attacking positions but struggled to make an impact with his crosses.
Aston Villa
1-4: Saturday, 21st OctoberReally struggled with how Villa played, with no real wide player but then suddenly finding himself dealing with Digne bursting from deep and Zaniolo in pockets.
Newcastle United
2-2: Saturday, 7th OctoberAnother assist, and he was very good on that right channel in both halves of the pitch and the game. A few wayward balls were quickly forgiven with a great late assist.
Sheffield United
2-0: Saturday, 30th SeptemberAnother assist for Vlad, who is returning to his early levels going forward now that the team is consistent in finishing. The pass was excellent, he defended well, and he even tried to go around a man with pace.
FK TSC Backa Topola
3-1: Thursday, 21st SeptemberDid not play.
Luton Town
2-1: Friday, 1st SeptemberLooked better on the ball, which is likely due to having better passers and receivers around him. Defended gamely, a few excellent tackles in there.
Brighton & Hove Albion
3-1: Saturday, 26th AugustMitoma may have been the best player of the first two rounds of fixtures, but he was marshalled well by Coufal. Not without threat, but Vlad is a very good defender and made it a battle, a battle he won.
Bournemouth
1-1: Saturday, 12th AugustNot too much width provided on the right by the Czech, who spent much of the afternoon defending.
Fiorentina
2-1: Wednesday, 7th JuneDefended well, and managed to maintain concentration and discipline as the full backs were pinned back by Fiorentina's wingers and high line. The quick long throw for Bowen was excellent.
Leicester City
1-2: Sunday, 28th MayBarnes made the most of his best opportunity out of Coufal's shadow. An interesting debate can be had on whether the midfield need to be better prepared to cover the full backs or whether better full backs need to be bought so that the midfield doesn’t need to be their to protect them so consistently. It is tempting, and easier, to blame the full backs, but the modern game requires players to be defending as a unit and attacking as a unit.
Leeds United
3-1: Sunday, 21st MayA solid, comfortable game without much to do defensively and without a massive impact in attack. Just efficiently did his work up and down the flank.
Manchester City
0-3: Wednesday, 3rd MayDid well until his innocuous injury. Seems to enjoy playing against Grealish.
Crystal Palace
3-4: Saturday, 29th AprilStruggled with Zaha, was no good on the ball.
Liverpool
1-2: Wednesday, 26th AprilDefended his side stoutly, didn’t really get to influence going the other way as much as he’d have liked.
Bournemouth
4-0: Sunday, 23rd AprilCoufal's return to form really has sparked West Ham's return to form. He's been very good in each of the last six games, defending very well and offering a lot more in attack. The long throws are also a valuable asset, and Coufal has gone from one to replace to a star player.
Gent
4-1: Thursday, 20th AprilDoesn't get beat down his flank, keeps himself as a constant presence for Bowen to use down the wing.
Arsenal
2-2: Sunday, 16th AprilTireless work up and down the flank, a good job on Martinelli, and his throws were a threat.
Fulham
1-0: Saturday, 8th AprilA brilliant return from a much underrated player. Solid, constant engine, balls of steel and probably more intelligent in defence than he’s given credit for.
Newcastle United
1-5: Wednesday, 5th April(Replaced Kehrer 63) Didn't get too involved, but nice to see the right back going beyond Bowen and getting into the final third.
Southampton
1-0: Sunday, 2nd AprilDid not play.
Nottingham Forest
4-0: Saturday, 25th FebruaryBack to right back, but struggled on the ball. Became a bit of a hindrance as the side dominated, and it was a good proactive change by Moyes.
Tottenham Hotspur
0-2: Sunday, 19th FebruaryWasn't an attacking option at any point, not prepared for Davies's run from deep on the opening goal.
Chelsea
1-1: Saturday, 11th FebruaryMany, including on these pages, have questioned his suitability as a wing back. On this showing, he is owed apologies. Where he gets real credit is the bravery to step into spaces left behind by Mudryk and back himself to be able to get back and do his defensive work after. It was rewarded with the goal, and he showed more willingness to get forward after that. The system, as well as Kehrer’s pace, help him do that, but his willingness to press deep in the Chelsea half were just as important as his cross. And a marked improvement in ball retention.
Newcastle United
1-1: Saturday, 4th FebruaryVery good defensively, all the more impressive considering the pace of the players he was up against. He still managed to maintain that running up and down all game, and whilst his delivery wasn't great, his presence was important and it's to his credit that he never got turned and exposed on the counter.
Derby County
2-0: Monday, 30th JanuaryDid not play.
Everton
2-0: Saturday, 21st JanuaryCalm and assured, whilst not the perfect wing back, Coufal doesn’t really let you down. Those defensive wobbles that had come into his game seem more the outlier than the rule, and he has looked closer to the real Coufal since the return after the World Cup. A diligent and disciplined defender, he may not have the pace to make a perfect wing-back, but he does commit to attacks and support Bowen.
Wolves
0-1: Saturday, 14th JanuaryGot up and down the flank, as he always does, and defended reasonably well. Solid, he seems to have been able to re-find a consistent enough level.
Leeds United
2-2: Wednesday, 4th JanuaryWhether it's fitness or confidence, Coufal is back to look secure and important on that right. His work up and down the flank separates him from a team of full backs who seem limited to use in only one half.
Arsenal
1-3: Monday, 26th DecemberDefended well in the first half, got an unlucky booking and then looked terrified of Martinelli. It was that fear that forced him so deep for the first goal, to be so far away from him on the second, too.
Leicester City
0-2: Saturday, 12th NovemberDid not play.
Crystal Palace
1-2: Sunday, 6th NovemberDid not play.
FCSB
3-0: Thursday, 3rd NovemberEarly mistake aside, another good performance. Lovely cross for the own goal.
Manchester United
0-1: Sunday, 30th OctoberDid not play.
Silkeborg
1-0: Thursday, 27th OctoberOne of his better games in the wing-back role. Felt like he was a more present threat on the flank and understood when to make his runs and where he should be. Hits the first man less than most of our crossers from wide.
AFC Bournemouth
2-0: Monday, 24th October(Replaced Bowen 87) Can't ask more than that. Three minutes of football, penalty won and game decided.
Liverpool
0-1: Wednesday, 19th OctoberDid not play.
Southampton
1-1: Sunday, 16th OctoberDid well enough at wing-back, even if he does not look a natural at it. Defensively sound, could have been better in possession, but again made the right a one-man flank as Bowen went looking to threaten inside.
Anderlecht
2-1: Thursday, 13th OctoberAn easy game for Vlad, who was never really forced onto the back foot and was a solid presence on the right. Comfortable.
Fulham
3-1: Sunday, 9th OctoberDid not play.
RSC Anderlecht
1-0: Thursday, 6th OctoberCoufal can be an awkward player on the ball, and as a wing-back, he is tasked with doing a lot with it. He gets up and down that flank tirelessly, and if his energy was replicated on the other side, we would be a better team. But aside from crossing, his use of the ball is poor and he doesn't suit the system.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
2-0: Saturday, 1st OctoberDid not play.
Everton
0-1: Sunday, 18th SeptemberDefensively solid, didn’t pass that well, managed to hold down the right side and offer a threat that allowed Bowen to go inside. Coufal gets harshly criticised, with a complete focus on what he doesn’t do well, often without mentioning what he does do well. Today, he managed to make something out of a range of bad, floaty diagonals that put him under immediate pressure. It happens every game, and it’s mainly Rice. He makes something of these nothing passes over and over.
Silkeborg
3-2: Thursday, 15th SeptemberThe toe that poked the ball away from Tengstedt was likely crucial, whilst it was good play from him down the right to provide the cross when Cornet was fouled. Still not great passing the ball in tight areas, but has these defining moments and qualities that make him important.
FCSB
3-1: Thursday, 8th SeptemberDefensively sound, but some sloppy forward play and too many of those looped passes forward to no one.
Chelsea
1-2: Saturday, 3rd SeptemberSome smart defending, forced back but solid with it. Didn't offer anything offensively, but it wasn't really a game where he was expected to.
Tottenham Hotspur
1-1: Wednesday, 31st AugustAs the game went on, he became West Ham’s most dangerous player. The quick thinking for the throw makes the goal, he created huge chances for both Fornals and the Emerson/Paqueta mix-up, was beating Perisic one-on-one and was a source for many attacks. Whilst passing accuracy can be a flawed stat, 82% for Vlad is high.
Aston Villa
1-0: Sunday, 28th August(Replaced Johnson 23) Did his defending well and was always on offer for the overlap or support in attack. But his passing was often poor, and he needs to get out of this habit of just chucking a looping ball down the wing if he runs out of ideas.
Brighton & Hove Albion
0-2: Sunday, 21st AugustOther than the second goal, Coufal defended his side well, not that Brighton used width too much. Probably should have tucked in for the second, but it's hard to see who to blame when the structure was so bizarre.
Viborg FF
3-1: Thursday, 18th AugustA lot of credit for Coufal, who often looks the least comfortable of professional footballers when forced to use his left. By the end, he created a good chance for Cornet. Played well with Cornet once both had settled.
Nottingham Forest
0-1: Sunday, 14th AugustDefensively, he was fine, But with Bowen basically absent, Coufal became the only option to play down the right. Too often, his decision was a lump forward or a poor crossing choice. There is very little to suggest he will make a comfortable wing back.
Manchester City
0-2: Sunday, 7th AugustManaged his battle with Jack Grealish well. Vlad seems to quite enjoy annoying Grealish, and it was arguably the most entertaining part of the West Ham display.
Servette FC
2-0: Friday, 8th JulyLooked fresh and fit, clever flicks returning to his game and the confidence to drive past the impressive Cucurella. Has come back from injury very well.
Servette FC
2-0: Friday, 8th JulyLooked fresh and fit, clever flicks returning to his game and the confidence to drive past the impressive Cucurella. Has come back from injury very well.
Brighton & Hove Albion
1-3: Sunday, 22nd MayLooked fresh and fit, clever flicks returning to his game and the confidence to drive past the impressive Cucurella. Has come back from injury very well.
Manchester City
2-2: Sunday, 15th MayThe own goal was very unfortunate, an understandable error and one where communication is more of a worry than the decision itself. Did well on Grealish, but was beaten a few times.
Norwich City
4-0: Saturday, 7th MayExactly the performance you need out of your right back against a team you can dominate. Was a brilliant support for Bowen and a great attacking threat throughout.
Eintracht Frankfurt
0-1: Thursday, 5th MayPut in a good shift and definitely looks comfortably the better right back. Now injury-free, he defends as well as Johnson and attacks much better. The long throws don't work, though.
Arsenal
1-2: Sunday, 1st MayA strong return. With Johnson missing a late fitness test, combined with the display here from Coufal and Johnson's on Thursday, there surely can be no question which of the two should play in Germany.
Chelsea
0-1: Sunday, 24th AprilGood defensively, especially in a role that doesn't really suit him perfectly. Needed to be better on the ball, but it was game where quite a few of the forward passers struggled.
Burnley
1-1: Sunday, 17th AprilDid not play.
Lyon
3-0: Thursday, 14th AprilSolid in defence, one Ekambi trick aside that truly sent him, and a presence down the flank going forward. Steady and unspectacular, but consistent and reliable.
Lyon
1-1: Thursday, 7th AprilDid not play.
Everton
2-1: Sunday, 3rd AprilDid not play.
Leicester City
2-2: Sunday, 13th FebruaryThere has been a worrying downturn in Coufal's form this season. It has been most notable on the ball, and today was no different there as a 57% pass success rate shows. But usually his defending keeps things together. Not today, Coufal outclassed by Barnes and unable to be the solid presence that can forgive sloppy passing.
Watford
1-0: Tuesday, 8th FebruaryNot an awful display, but there were too many moments where he made the wrong decision on the ball, or the right decision executed poorly. However, he worked hard up and down the flank and made good defensive contributions. To his credit, he rarely puts a foot wrong defensively.
Kidderminster Harriers
2-1: Saturday, 5th FebruaryDid not play.
Manchester United
0-1: Saturday, 22nd JanuaryCoufal’s use of the ball has been abysmal in recent games. Aside from Watford, he has been a passer so poor that it’s causing issues. He may just be lucky that his replacements, Johnson and Fredericks, are not particularly good with it either. Defensively solid.
Leeds United
2-3: Sunday, 16th JanuaryNot the worst culprit at the back, his desperation to pour forward was exploited more than any actual defending, but his use of the ball was poor and a pass completion of just over 50% does not help the attack build anything, or lift the pressure on the defence.
Norwich
2-0: Wednesday, 12th JanuaryAn impressive performance where he kept pushing up the pitch and ended up with a deserved assist from a cleverly delivered cross.
Crystal Palace
3-2: Saturday, 1st JanuaryGenerally a force for good in this game, defensively solid and there was a very clear difference in his performance to how Johnson and Masuaku defended on the other side. Two left backs who have more pace, but not with the nous and skill in defence of Coufal. Does need to be a little sharper with his passing, something just floating it down the line to nowhere if he hasn't got the pass on that he wants.
Watford
4-1: Tuesday, 28th DecemberMaybe his best game this season. He and Bowen consistently combined well and both look better for having the other there with them.
Southampton
2-3: Sunday, 26th DecemberLost a little something going forward, but probably isn't helped when the option in front of him keeps changing.
Arsenal
0-2: Wednesday, 15th DecemberRegardless of whether it should have happened, it did. He was sent off and gave a penalty away. He was otherwise reasonably solid, but feelings of injustice matter less than facts of the game.
Burnley
0-0: Saturday, 11th DecemberDefensively solid and his attacking work down the right is much more appreciated since it was missing. He is always an option and that helps the side use the ball far more effectively.
Dinamo Zagreb
0-1: Thursday, 9th DecemberDid not play.
Chelsea
3-2: Saturday, 4th DecemberGoing to have this spot back now. He’s been excellent since coming back in, his running up the flank offers so much for the team and livens up Bowen. Defended well too.
Brighton & Hove Albion
1-1: Wednesday, 1st DecemberNot a triumphant result, but a triumphant return in that his performance reminded anyone watching what a good player he is. Maybe the rest will have some long-term benefit for him, whilst his return made Bowen a better player and helped the passing on the right side of the pitch. His crossing was an added weapon too. It's harsh on Johnson, but he hasn't got that part of his game yet and Coufal does.
Manchester City
1-2: Saturday, 27th November(Replaced Cresswell, 60) Was reasonably fine, but it was so obvious that he cannot play on the left side.
Rapid Vienna
2-0: Thursday, 25th NovemberLooked sharp and was a great passing option up and down the flank. Unlucky not to get an assist for a perfect cross to Perkins.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
0-1: Saturday, 20th NovemberDid not play.
Liverpool
3-2: Saturday, 6th November(Replaced Bowen, 84) Came in and was disciplined and energetic, which we needed.
Genk
2-2: Thursday, 4th NovemberThe defence was a mess in the early stages, but once the side settled, Coufal was better going forward and his pass for the first goal was perfect. Unlucky not to score or get an assist later.
Aston Villa
4-1: Sunday, 31st October(Replaced Bowen, 90) On for a few seconds to waste time.
Manchester City
0-0: Wednesday, 27th October(Replaced Lanzini, 82) Did his job, stiffening up the right but was barely noticed. Good to see him getting minutes to aid his return.
Brentford
1-2: Sunday, 3rd OctoberSome real threat, but also some passing from the back in the first half that just seemed aimless, going long for the sake of going long. On the plus side, showed more energy going forward than he has so far this season.
Leeds United
2-1: Saturday, 25th SeptemberWas upfield when the side conceded. It’s to his credit that the pace of Dan James never seemed to be even a footnote in the game. Lovely pass to Rice to release him and start the move to win the game.
Manchester United
1-0: Wednesday, 22nd September(Replaced Fredericks, 17) Did his job quite quietly but didn’t seem to be able to get on the same page as his teammates in attacking areas.
Manchester United
1-2: Sunday, 19th SeptemberDidn’t seem particularly concerned by any of the Man United players, but was not anywhere near at his best going forward and didn’t really impose himself at the back either. Still looks tired.
Dinamo Zagreb
2-0: Thursday, 16th SeptemberDid not play.
Southampton
0-0: Saturday, 11th SeptemberHe’ll remember today more than others, such was the trouble Djenepo caused him. A couple dangerous balls into the box but quite subdued.
Crystal Palace
2-2: Saturday, 28th AugustBoth goals came down the defender’s side, although both were more to do with poor defending and organisation in the box. 12 crosses, three that were accurate.
Leicester City
4-1: Monday, 23rd AugustWasn’t tested defensively, provided a good outlet and some teasing crosses from the right flank.
Newcastle United
4-2: Sunday, 15th AugustLooked off the pace in the first half, and at the very least was reluctant to overlap like he usually does. Got better in the second half, but was part of a messy defence.
Southampton
3-0: Sunday, 23rd MayIt’s Coufal, so it’s going to be at least a seven out of ten. Another assist, more comfortable defending, more roaming full back with an unstoppable engine. No better signing has been made in the Premier League this season, and the man has arguably been the best right back in the league.
West Bromwich Albion
3-1: Wednesday, 19th MayRinse and repeat from Mr Coufal. His first taste of English fans and up against the player who caused him most problems in the reverse in Pereira. He was his usual self, robust but with finesse, energetic and up and down the flank all game. Contributed well at both ends.
Brighton & Hove Albion
1-1: Saturday, 15th MayNot his finest game but he still delivered at both ends of the pitch. Arguably the player of the season, it’s hard to think of him even having bad spells in games, let alone bad games.
Everton
0-1: Saturday, 8th MayAs ever, the man was irrepressible. Came closest of any player to scoring, did his defensive work and even played left back well. Not a game where so much needed to come through the wide areas, but he provided and nearly set up Fornals too. Hard to criticise a shot that hit the inside of the post, but he still seems less than confident shooting.
Burnley
2-1: Saturday, 1st MayAll the robotic superlatives about this man are fully deserved and apply again. He is a machine. Up and down the flank all game, he seems happy to be a neat passing right back as he is a no-nonsense full back. Another assist and this is still his debut season.
Chelsea
0-1: Saturday, 24th AprilOne of the Czech gladiator’s more ineffective games. He didn’t really dominate his flank defensively, and often found his crossing opportunities curtailed by the presence of any player in the opposition box. With Rice playing, Soucek would have been there.
Newcastle United
2-3: Saturday, 17th AprilOne of the few to come out with any credit. Did his job reasonably well defensively, but it was what he put into the attacking effort that is worth praise. He never stopped running up and down the flank, had the most touches of any player on the pitch and kept the side going in difficult circumstances.
Leicester City
3-2: Sunday, 11th AprilSpeaking of rocks at the back, Coufal was again imperious in defence and supported the attack well, include a great assist. Must work on his confidence on the ball when he gets behind the defence, second time this season he was been storming towards goal and looked lost in the headlights. Otherwise brilliant.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
3-2: Monday, 5th AprilHe’s less natural at wing back than full back, and he ends up playing both roles due to how the defence is shaped, so it’s spectacular to think he bossed that side so well again. The first goal came from his side, but arguably he dealt with Traore much better without help and that time was three players beaten. He gets on the ball a lot and is always solid.
Arsenal
3-3: Saturday, 20th MarchA good attacking performance, his crosses were dangerous, but a little more vulnerable defensively than we are used to. Tierney beat him a few times, and he may have been better positioned to defend Lacazette’s header.
Manchester United
0-1: Sunday, 14th MarchDid well considering the pace he was up against and the ease of which numerous players flooded forward. Beaten for pace more times than usual, but then it was an endless stream of attack so it makes it more likely.
Leeds United
2-0: Monday, 8th MarchSolid and unspectacular, the calling card of an old-school defender who relishes the challenge of defending.
Manchester City
1-2: Saturday, 27th FebruaryCan be very happy with his individual play. His run forward and pass to Lingard were key in the goal, whilst his defensive work was excellent. Torres was barely seen, how well he was marshalled by Coufal.
Tottenham Hotspur
2-1: Saturday, 20th FebruaryWhen it’s time for a fight, Coufal is game. He scraps in defence, and it was clear he again enjoyed the challenge of facing a much-heralded opponent. Son was quiet, especially when he was moved to play one-on-one with Coufal. He never won a head-to-head, the full back resolute as ever.
Sheffield United
3-0: Monday, 15th FebruaryTenacious as ever, although Sheffield United got in quite a few crosses down his side. Should have scored, although it’s more important he backs himself rather than goes at goal so reluctantly!
Manchester United
0-1: Tuesday, 9th FebruaryDid a good job at right back and then did well in the right slot of a middle three. Solid, no glamour, didn’t get forward to attack often. Kept Rashford quiet.
Fulham
0-0: Saturday, 6th FebruaryThe man is a very good defender. Deserved to score too for the way he attacked that header. The forward players were off their game, so the resilience of the defence was important. Coufal has resilience in spades.
Aston Villa
3-1: Wednesday, 3rd FebruaryDoes Vladimir Coufal have bad games? You could just sense that he relished the challenge of defending Grealish, and he enjoyed the niggle that came along with it too. His attacking play was more limited than usual, the task of Grealish clear in his mind, and Fredericks gave him ample support too.
Liverpool
1-3: Sunday, 31st JanuaryStood up to the challenge better than most of his teammates. Steady, strong and still tried to get forward.
Crystal Palace
3-2: Tuesday, 26th JanuaryAnother game against Zaha, another dominant performance. Neither Eze nor Zaha got any change out of Coufal, the right back dominant defensively, strong in the tackle and making a lot of clearances too (seven). A terrific signing.
Doncaster Rovers
4-0: Saturday, 23rd JanuaryDid not play.
West Bromwich Albion
2-1: Tuesday, 19th JanuaryHe looked more troubled by Grosicki than any other winger has been able to make him, but he adjusted well and his assist unlocked the game.
Burnley
1-0: Saturday, 16th JanuaryA couple times he was beaten by McNeil, but otherwise very solid and dependable at the back, whilst providing well further forward.
Stockport County
1-0: Monday, 11th JanuaryUntil Soucek arrived, this was a lower rating, but his compatriot brought him into the game much more, as did Bowen's superior movement to Yarmolenko, and it was his cross that created Soucek's chance and his run that earned the corner for the goal. Looked leggy.
Everton
1-0: Friday, 1st JanuarySolid if unspectacular, he dealt with the threat of Bernard well and then had no problems with Richarlison when the forward swapped wings. His defensive work is very, very good, and he gets up and down the flank to support Bowen very well too. Consistent.
Southampton
0-0: Tuesday, 29th DecemberDid not play.
Brighton & Hove Albion
2-2: Saturday, 26th DecemberCoufal is not a wingback, he does well supporting a winger and overlapping, so seeing him and Johnson as the two wide options was a horrible watch. However, he did get up to support the attacks and, most importantly, his defensive worth on the flanks is brilliant. There is very little a full back can do when 1v2 on the wing, so the first goal is on the system.
Chelsea
0-3: Monday, 21st DecemberComes out of the game with credit. Not only did he support Bowen excellently, as ever, but he was defensive solid once more and is by far the best full back at the club.
Crystal Palace
1-1: Tuesday, 15th DecemberAs good a defensive performance as you'll see this season from a Premier League full back. Zaha and Eze danced around the ball as much as they liked, Coufal just made sure to tackle them when they tried to do something with it. The assist was deserved too, a cross into the right area and not his only one. Endlessly overlaps too.
Leeds United
2-1: Friday, 11th DecemberAs pointed out repeatedly on commentary, no attacker got anything out of Coufal down our right and he was smart with when and how he attacked. The freekick for Balbuena was perfect too, another little string to his bow with Fredericks and Johnson both ready for any chance to take his place.
Manchester United
1-3: Saturday, 5th DecemberHandled Martial with ease in the first half, but couldn't deal with the space Rashford could run into. Hard to question individual defenders in the second half, the line was very much wrong and they were exposed by the system, whether that was the manager's instructions or poor organisation by the defence.
Aston Villa
2-1: Saturday, 28th NovemberGrealish was quieter in the first half under Coufal's supervision than in the second when he moved away from the defender.
Sheffield United
1-0: Sunday, 22nd NovemberA very effective game from the right. Got forward well but was very aware of what was behind him. He snaps into tackles well, especially to steal the ball and did so around the halfway a few times to get moves started, notably for the goal.
Fulham
1-0: Saturday, 7th NovemberDefensively sound, put in a few good crosses that could have had better outcomes. Lacks pace and guile but a good addition.
Liverpool
1-2: Saturday, 31st OctoberYou would probably have had to have paid real attention to Coufal in particular to notice much he did individually that stood out. Generally defended well, although lost the flight of a long ball that Liverpool nearly profited from.
Manchester City
1-1: Saturday, 24th OctoberExcellent defensively for all but one moment, and City punished him for that. But otherwise, he was dominant down defensively down his side and stepped into the middle to help well.
Tottenham Hotspur
3-3: Sunday, 18th OctoberLooked a little lost by the positioning and movement of Son, combined with Balbuena too. But when Kane was stopped, the defence sorted themselves out with the runners he was trying to find. And the goal he created came from classic full back play.
Leicester City
3-0: Sunday, 4th OctoberDefensively very good, made two vital interceptions to cover others in the first half, and also showed attacking skill too. Great debut.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.
Vladimir Coufal did not play for West Ham during this season.