Tomas Soucek threatened ahead of West Ham’s first Millwall derby in 14 years

West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek has reportedly been threatened by a Millwall supporter before Saturday’s eagerly anticipated Championship derby between the two London clubs.

West Ham travel to The Den for the fixture, which will be the sides’ first meeting in 14 years. The match is widely regarded as one of the fiercest rivalries in English football.

Soucek, 31, has not played for West Ham this season because of an ankle injury. The Czech Republic international has nevertheless attended matches and supported Nuno Espirito Santo’s side from the stands.

According to the Daily Mail, Soucek was confronted by a Millwall fan during an encounter in a public place and was warned to stay away from The Den.

A video circulated on social media appears to show the supporter telling the midfielder: “If I see you at The Den next Saturday, I’ll cut your f face off, you bastard.”

Soucek appears to laugh in response to the threat in the footage shared online.

The derby has a history of serious incidents, with previous meetings between Millwall and West Ham marred by racist abuse directed at players by supporters of both clubs.

A 44-year-old fan was also stabbed in the chest when the teams met in the League Cup in August 2009.

The latest fixture is being played in the Championship, with West Ham due to visit Millwall’s The Den on Saturday.