West Ham fans have reason to be excited about the ‘top player’ Potter will have next season.

West Ham’s disappointing league position of 16th can be attributed to multiple factors, not solely the transfer window.

However, despite their struggles, there have been some positives to take away.

Several signings made during Tim Steidten’s 2024 recruitment drive have fallen short of expectations, whether due to poor luck or misjudgment.

Yet, amid these setbacks, there are reasons for optimism as the club looks to the future.

West Ham Could See the Best of Fullkrug Next Season

Despite heavy spending in the summer, West Ham has found it difficult to gain momentum in the Premier League this season.

However, under Graham Potter, the team appears more structured and organized, suggesting that, with time, the current squad could achieve greater success under his leadership.

While Potter is somewhat limited in what he can implement this season, one of the most exciting prospects for the next campaign is the return of Niclas Fullkrug, the £27 million signing who has been sidelined for much of the season.

Fullkrug is a classic ‘late bloomer,’ emerging as a consistent goalscorer in his late 20s.

Having delivered for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League and played a key role for the German national team in major tournaments, he has proven his capabilities at the highest level.

TV commentator Ian Darke, speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, believes that, despite his struggles this season, Fullkrug still has the potential to make an impact in the Premier League.

“He’s had a nightmare season with injury; it’s been an absolute write-off,” Darke admitted.

“West Ham fans haven’t seen the best of him yet, but he’s a much better player than they’ve witnessed so far.

“Those of us who have watched him at Dortmund in the Champions League know what he can bring to a side. Next season, they could get the real Fullkrug—he can still be a top player.”

Fullkrug Still Has Time to Prove Himself at West Ham

While some West Ham fans may have lost sight of Fullkrug’s potential, it would be premature to dismiss him entirely.

At 32, he remains one of the more experienced members of Potter’s squad.

Although several players over 30 at the club could leave as free agents, Fullkrug still has three years left on his contract, giving him ample time to make an impact.

In the four matches this season where Fullkrug has played at least 75 minutes for club and country, he has contributed three goals and an assist.

The ability is still there—the key will be providing him with a consistent run of games and a system that maximizes his strengths next season.