West Ham United have been dealt a setback ahead of their upcoming Premier League fixture against Ipswich, with reports confirming that Niclas Füllkrug is unlikely to feature.
According to a high-ranking West Ham source, speaking to Claret & Hugh this morning, the German striker’s recovery from injury has taken longer than expected. This will come as a significant blow, given the importance of Füllkrug to Julen Lopetegui’s tactical plans.
When asked whether the £25 million summer signing would be available for the match, the insider provided a clear response: “NO, he’s not back until after the international break. His injury has taken longer than we first thought.”
This news is undoubtedly disappointing for West Ham fans, as Füllkrug’s presence has been sorely missed.
The striker, who was injured during training with the German national team following his goal against Hungary in September, had initially been diagnosed with tendonitis and was expected to be sidelined for just two weeks. However, it appears the injury is more serious than first believed.
Füllkrug’s absence means he will continue his fitness work in East London, with hopes that he will be ready to face Tottenham Hotspur on October 19th, following the international break.
ExWHUemployee, speaking on The West Ham Way Patreon, also confirmed the news:
“We can reveal that German forward Niclas Füllkrug is likely to be missing for the game against Ipswich. His injury has taken longer than expected, and the club are now saying they expect he will only be fit after the international break.”
The club will be keeping a close eye on Füllkrug’s recovery, and updates are expected as the situation develops. For now, West Ham will have to find alternative solutions in attack as they prepare to face Ipswich without their marquee summer signing.