Opinion: West Ham may already have the final piece of the puzzle despite ongoing injury struggles.
Niclas Fullkrug is set to silence his critics at West Ham United after an injury-plagued start to his time in England.
The German international, Niclas Fullkrug, was signed by West Ham over the summer with high expectations to enhance their attacking prowess.
However, he was initially overlooked by Julen Lopetegui in favor of Michail Antonio and later suffered a severe Achilles injury, which has kept him sidelined since.
Recently, concerns have also emerged about a calf problem that may require further evaluation and potentially surgery, which would extend his absence from the squad.
Despite these setbacks, Fullkrug’s time on the sidelines could serve as motivation.
Having blossomed later in his career, he is equipped with the mental resilience to prove his value, regardless of age or circumstance.
His determination is likely to help him maintain a positive mindset as he works toward a return.
According to a report from SportBILD on 11 October, West Ham plans to carefully reintegrate Fullkrug into the squad following the international break.
West Ham signed Fullkrug with a long-term perspective in mind, recognizing that while he is 31, he is still a younger option compared to other strikers in Lopetegui’s lineup.
Antonio, who impressed in the game against Ipswich, has secured himself more playing time, but at 33, both he and Danny Ings, 32, are expected to leave on free transfers next summer.
This leaves West Ham with limited depth in central strikers.
Although Atletico Madrid’s Alexander Sorloth was linked to a move over the summer, recent reports suggest Atletico is unlikely to entertain negotiations after just signing him from Villarreal in the last window.
Fullkrug’s goal-scoring record, when fit, is impressive.
Averaging a goal every two Bundesliga games for Werder Bremen, he earned his place in the German national team, scoring 14 goals in 22 appearances.
His 12 goals in 29 matches for Borussia Dortmund further enhance his reputation.
Fullkrug embodies the qualities of a classic striker who could dominate in the Premier League.
West Ham must show patience, allowing him to contribute with goals, assists, and link-up play, complementing the creative talent already within the team.
