Dan Bardell has suggested that West Ham United will be frustrated after new signing Niclas Fullkrug picked up an Achilles injury while on international duty with Germany.
The 31-year-old striker sustained the injury during training, with West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui labelling the situation as “a pity” [whufc.com].
It’s an early setback in Fullkrug’s time at the London Stadium, having played just 63 minutes in the Premier League since his £27 million move from Borussia Dortmund [The Guardian].
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell believes the timing of the injury will be particularly frustrating for both the player and the club.
Speaking to West Ham Zone, Bardell said, “It’s been stop-start for him anyway, West Ham are looking to ease him in slowly. They’ll be disappointed that he’s gone away on international duty and got injured, but it isn’t the end of the world.”
While the injury does not appear to be a long-term issue, Bardell highlighted the frustration surrounding Fullkrug’s slow start to the season.
“It doesn’t look to be a bad injury and at some point, he’s going to come in and start. The frustration will be that he’s had a slow start to the season anyway and cost a fair bit.”
Fullkrug arrived at West Ham this summer with much anticipation, particularly after a strong showing during the Euros.
However, Lopetegui has opted for Michail Antonio to lead the line in all three Premier League matches so far, leaving fans eager to see more of their big-money signing.
Now, with Fullkrug sidelined due to this latest setback, the wait continues. For a side with only Antonio and Danny Ings as striker options, this injury will certainly be seen as a frustrating blow as West Ham look to build on their early season form.