West Ham United have suffered a major blow ahead of their crucial clash with Everton as manager Julen Lopetegui confirmed that striker Niclas Fullkrug is set for an extended spell on the sidelines.
The German international, who joined the Hammers in the summer for £27 million, has struggled to make an impact due to persistent injury issues.
Lopetegui revealed in his pre-match press conference that Fullkrug’s latest setback is more serious than initially anticipated.
“Fullkrug is out,” Lopetegui said (via the Evening Standard). “He’s not working with us, so I think he is going to be out for a lot of time more, unfortunately,
“I am not a doctor, I don’t know. He started with a little injury, and step by step, it’s more complicated.”
The news is a significant setback for West Ham, who are already struggling in 14th in the Premier League.
The Hammers’ hapless 3-0 loss against Nottingham Forest over the weekend means they have been beaten in five of their ten league matches this season, collecting just 11 points.
Lopetegui is now faced with the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for Fullkrug, with Michail Antonio the most likely candidate to lead the line.
Everton won on their last visit to the London Stadium and will be motivated to leapfrog West Ham in the standings.
West Ham will also be without Mohammed Kudus after his moment of madness against Tottenham Hotspur.
He received a red card, an additional two-game ban, and a fine from the Football Association (FA).
