Wolves’ Ladislav Krejci named Czechia captain as Soucek stripped before Ireland qualifier | OneFootball

Ladislav Krejci has been handed the Czechia captaincy ahead of Thursday’s World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland, elevating the Wolves defender into a leading role.

The 26-year-old, on loan from Girona, has been a regular under Vitor Pereira and Rob Edwards during a testing Wolves campaign. According to ExpressAndStar.com, West Ham’s Tomas Soucek was stripped of the armband after being disciplined for failing to applaud fans following November’s 6-0 win over Gibraltar, with bonuses also withheld.

Krejci, who debuted in 2022, has won 23 caps and keeps his place for the home meeting with Ireland.

New coach Miroslav Koubek and general manager Pavel Nedved, the former midfielder and Ballon d’Or winner, signalled last week that a decision was imminent. Nedved indicated he sensed the group’s dynamics and viewed the choice of leader as straightforward.

Krejci joined Wolves on a season-long loan for an initial £6 million, with a £20 million option that became an obligation after a set number of appearances. It is understood those conditions have been met.

He is set to complete a permanent move this summer on a contract running to 2030. It is also understood there is no relegation clause preventing completion, meaning the transfer is effectively sealed.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com