Importance Score: 12 / 100 🟠
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West Ham manager Graham Potter has stated the club must still evaluate Niclas Fullkrug’s fitness before determining if the striker is ready for his first start since January against Premier League leaders Liverpool. This highly anticipated match could mark Fullkrug’s return to the starting lineup after a significant injury.
The German forward has made two substitute appearances following his return from a three-month hamstring injury. He has quickly demonstrated his potential, striking the woodwork and creating a late opportunity against Wolves, before scoring with a powerful header against Bournemouth just seven minutes after entering the game.
Potter is eager to integrate Fullkrug into his starting eleven, particularly as West Ham’s goalscoring has been a concern. Since Potter succeeded Julen Lopetegui, only relegated Leicester City have scored fewer league goals. However, Potter acknowledges the need for caution with Fullkrug’s re-integration.
‘He is clearly a top-quality player,’ Potter commented. ‘His impact has been evident. He provides us with different options and enhances our attacking versatility. He also brings a strong presence to the team.’
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‘We are very pleased with him, but his season has been heavily disrupted by injury. We are carefully managing his recovery process to ensure he receives sufficient playing time safely, allowing us to maximize his contributions.’
‘He experienced a slight issue, not fatigue exactly, but we are ensuring he is fit following the weekend’s game. He participated in team training today, and we are hopeful there will be no adverse reaction. He should be available for selection this weekend.’
Fullkrug’s Fitness Crucial for West Ham’s Attack
Graham Potter confirms Niclas Fullkrug fitness assessment ongoing ahead of Sunday’s match.
The German striker has made two substitute appearances after returning from injury.
Fullkrug’s goal against Bournemouth highlighted West Ham’s offensive void during his absence.
Potter’s need for Fullkrug is显而易见的. West Ham faced boos at halftime during theirdraw withBournemouth, butFullkrug’s introduction around the 60-minute mark revitalized the team. Now, they are preparing to face a formidable Liverpool side, aiming for the title and boosted by Mohammed Salah’s contract extension.
West Ham have accumulated just 12 points in their first 11 games under Potter’s management. They face the prospect of dropping to 17th place if this weekend’s results are unfavorable.
Their attack, lacking Fullkrug, has continued to struggle. Only Leicester City has recorded fewer shots per game than West Ham since Potter took charge.
‘We have been without Fullkrug, Michail Antonio, and Crysencio Summerville, and Jarrod Bowen has also been unavailable for a significant period,’ Potter explained, emphasizing the impact of injuries on the team’s attacking capabilities.
‘Concerns about attacking prowess are valid, but when you are conceding over two goals per game, regardless of your attacking options, you are likely to face difficulties. Initially, we had to address the defensive vulnerabilities.’
‘In professional football, particularly at a club like West Ham with high expectations, dissatisfaction from supporters when trailing at halftime is understandable. We acknowledge that our overall performance level needs improvement.’
‘The scoreline undeniably influences perceptions. We are not suggesting our performance against Bournemouth was exceptional, but it was perhaps not as poor as it seemed.’
‘From our perspective, we recognize the progress made defensively. In the preceding 25 matches before our arrival, the team conceded over 50 goals.’
‘While defensive improvements have been made, we must find a balance between defense and attack and enhance our offensive play. Our aim is to perform better overall, and that requires ongoing effort.’
‘We are focused on progressing game by game, day by day, striving for continuous improvement and aiming to conclude the season as strongly as possible.’