West Ham United head coach Julen Lopetegui has opened up about the injury sustained by Niclas Fullkrug.
West Ham hitman Niclas Fullkrug suffered a huge injury blow a few of days ago, whilst away on international duty with Germany.
Ahead of Germany’s clash with Holland, the 31-year-old had to abandon the final training session in Amsterdam on Monday after just 15 minutes, due to problems with his Achilles tendon and calf.
The injury really was terrible timing for Fullkrug and Lopetegui, after the Spaniard had just been hand-fed the solution to the German’s problems, when he a scored for his country during a 5-0 win over Hungary.
It has been claimed that Fullkrug would definitely miss Saturday’s clash with Fulham, but could actually be in contention to face Chelsea in nine day’s time.
And now Lopetegui has had his say on the matter.
Julen Lopetegui responds to question about Niclas Fullkrug injury
The German’s injury earlier this week came at the worst possible time for him.
And having him unavailable for a prolonged period of time would be really bad news for the Hammers.
Lopetegui spoke to reporters during his press conference today, and responded when asked by WHUFC.com about Fullkrug’s Achilles problem.
The Spaniard said, “He has a bit of a problem, which is a pity, but we’ll see later today. I think tomorrow we’ll take the final decision about him.“
So, the fact that Lopetegui has said a final decision will be taken on the German tomorrow means that he is actually in contention to feature against Fulham.
That really is remarkable, considering that he only picked up his injury three days ago!
Fullkrug can still be a hit at West Ham
The Germany international hasn’t hit the ground running at the London Stadium, and the Achilles injury that he’s just sustained certainly won’t help matters.
However, we must be patient with him, and allow him time to adjust to life in London and Lopetegui’s tactics.
It is never easy for strikers after moving to a new league, with the pressure really cranked up on them to start well.
Lopetegui’s decision to bring Fullkrug to the London Stadium may well end up being a masterstroke or a huge mistake, we just don’t know yet.
One thing’s for sure, Lopetegui needs to set up his team with his wingers playing more narrow, if he’s to get the best out of Niclas Fullkrug at West Ham.
Only time will tell as to whether the Hammers head coach made the correct decision by bringing him to the London Stadium.
Hopefully he shakes off his injury in time to feature for the Hammers at Craven Cottage tomorrow.
