West Ham United defender did not expect such good start

But the Czech international confirmed the team’s trophy success last term has given them a massive lift.

David Moyes’ men went into the international break with 10 points from four games, after a 2-1 success at top-flight new boys Luton Town.

And Coufal, who has played every minuet of those matches, told the club website: “After winning the [Europa] Conference League we gained a lot of confidence.

“Now we are playing like we feel bigger, with confidence, we trust each other, we trust our process, our football. We are keeping together. 

“It is bringing the fruits and bringing the points, so we don’t want to change anything. But, to be absolutely honest with you, I didn’t expect 10 points from these four games!”

Jarrod Bowen headed home from Lucas Paqueta’s cross to open the scoring at a raucous Kenilworth Road, with Kurt Zouma nodding in from a James Ward-Prowse corner six minutes from time.

And Coufal, 31, praised the impact made by Ward-Prowse, since his summer arrival from Southampton, adding: “I don’t think I have to say how good he is, everybody in the Premier League and the UK and maybe all over the world knows who James Ward-Prowse is, from his free-kicks and corners.

“He is absolutely world-class. He reminds me of Andrea Pirlo or Juninho [Pernambucano]. He chooses the spot in the box and he delivers the ball exactly to that spot. It is easy for him. His kicking technique is absolutely amazing.”

The first Hammer to score or assist in his first three Premier League appearances for the Club ???????????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/3UlVAFjE56

— West Ham United (@WestHam) September 3, 2023

Mexican international Edson Alvarez, 25, made his second successive start in the heart of the Hammers midfield, combining well with Brazilian Paqueta.

And Coufal admitted it was fun to watch his teammates in action, saying: “It’s great! They are just getting together and have not been here for a long time, and their connection is very good. 

“They are rotating in the midfield and everything, so it’s fun to watch!

“Edson is a very good guy and has settled in really well. He’s a good character in the changing room and is very committed like you can see on the pitch.

“We have got really good players.”

Fourth-placed West Ham return to action against champions and current leaders Manchester City at London Stadium on September 16.

And they start their Europa League campaign at home against Serbian side TSC five days later, having also been grouped with Olympiacos and Freiburg.