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Lopetegui confirms Emerson & Fullkrug are doubtful for Chelsea clash

West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui has confirmed that Emerson and Niclas Fullkrug may not feature in Saturday’s Premier League clash against Chelsea.

The Hammers are desperate for their first home win of the season, having suffered defeats to Aston Villa and Manchester City at the London Stadium.

Emerson played a crucial role in West Ham’s 1-1 draw against Fulham last weekend but was forced off with a knock shortly before the hour mark.

“Fortunately, it wasn’t a big knock for Emerson,” Lopetegui stated in his pre-match press conference (via West Ham’s official website).

“It’s still Thursday, so there is still time where we need to review things. We will evaluate him again tomorrow (Friday) and see where we are.”

German international Fullkrug has been carrying an Achilles tendon and calf muscle injury sustained during international duty.

He missed the Fulham match, and his participation in Saturday’s game remains doubtful. Lopetegui said he will evaluate all his players closely before making a final decision.

West Ham took a massive gamble splurging £27 million to purchase Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund, but it has not paid dividends.

The former Werder Bremen star has struggled to stay fit since arriving in London, and there are serious questions about the club’s decision-making.

West Ham needed a younger option to lead the frontline, especially with Michail Antonio looking off-form.

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