Why Niclas Fullkrug can be the No 9 West Ham need to take them forward after a difficult debut season, writes JAMES SHARPE

West Ham United’s Striker Solution: Niclas Fullkrug Emerges as Key Goal Scorer

• Niclas Fullkrug, a classic center-forward, is proving to be the ideal acquisition for West Ham.
• The imposing 6ft 2in German international has found the net in two of his last three Premier League appearances.

West Ham United are increasingly relying on Niclas Fullkrug, the towering 6ft 2in German forward, to spearhead their attack. The robust striker, reminiscent of a traditional number 9, has emerged as a pivotal figure, potentially providing the solution to the team’s forward line needs.

Despite recent appearances as a substitute, the impact of the 32-year-old Fullkrug has been undeniable. He offers manager Graham Potter’s side a crucial focal point in attack, a dimension the team has notably lacked.

Fullkrug’s initial integration was hampered by a hamstring injury sustained early in Potter’s tenure in January. Subsequently, Potter experimented with various attacking combinations, deploying players such as Lucas Paqueta, Mohammed Kudus, and Jarrod Bowen in makeshift forward roles.

The £27 million summer acquisition from Borussia Dortmund recently returned to action, making substitute appearances against Wolves and Bournemouth. In both instances, his introduction significantly influenced the game’s dynamic.

vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.

The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.

Against Wolves, Fullkrug provided a late opportunity for Tomas Soucek to potentially secure a draw and also struck thecrossbar with a strong header. Furthermore, against Bournemouth, just seven minutes after entering the field, he powerfully headed home a James Ward-Prowse corner, securing a goal.

‘Analyzing my previous goals, you’ll observe numerous headers of that nature,’ Fullkrug commented. ‘It’s a key aspect of my game. The quality of crosses from Prowsey facilitates these opportunities.’

Beyond his sheer physicality and aerial prowess, Fullkrug has also impressed with his link-up play, effectively involving teammates in attacking moves. Bowen, for instance, scored a second goal shortly after reverting to a wider position.

Fullkrug acknowledges the challenging adaptation period, necessitating behind-closed-doors matches and a Dubai training camp to reach his current condition. Despite his recent contributions, he indicates he is not yet prepared to start a full match.

‘What alternative did I have? I had to accept the situation – and maximize my efforts within it,’ Fullkrug stated. ‘I must be astute and strategic in my approach, similar to my current role. Continued adaptation is needed. We require further training and dedication to achieve full match fitness for consistent starts.’

Fullkrug’s Perspective on Premier League Journey

‘This season has presented considerable challenges. My ambition in joining was to relish the Premier League experience with a prominent club. Now, I am achieving that and it brings me great satisfaction. We shall see what the remainder of the season holds.’

Nickname and Potential Impact

In Germany, Fullkrug is known as ‘Lücke,’ translating to ‘the gap,’ a reference to his distinctive front teeth. As he regains peak fitness, he is demonstrating his capacity to fill a significant void in West Ham’s attacking department. His presence offers a solution to their previously lackluster attack.