West Ham United striker Niclas Fullkrug will miss Saturday’s Premier League clash against Fulham due to a calf strain sustained during international duty with Germany. The 31-year-old was ruled out of Germany’s 2-2 draw against the Netherlands on Tuesday as a precautionary measure to avoid long-term consequences.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann confirmed that Fullkrug’s injury is not serious but requires a few days of rest. “It’s nothing serious. Unfortunately, the area is a bit problematic because it’s the transition to the Achilles tendon at the bottom of the calf,” Nagelsmann said.
Fullkrug has yet to score for West Ham in three matches this season, but he did find the net for Germany in their 5-0 Nations League win over Hungary last Saturday. His absence will be a blow to West Ham, who are looking to bounce back from their defeat to Manchester City before the international break.
West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui will have to find alternative options up front, with Fullkrug expected to be out for at least a few days. The Hammers are also exploring free agent signings, with Joel Matip and John Egan considered as potential additions to the squad.