West Ham's Fullkrug Struggles: A Closer Look

West Ham United's signing of Niclas Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund last summer hasn't quite panned out as expected. The striker, who joined the Hammers for a reported £27 million, has been plagued by injuries and poor form. Recently, he picked up another injury during a 2-1 FA Cup loss to Aston Villa, under new manager Graham Potter. Fullkrug's journey hasn't been smooth. He started the season sidelined with an Achilles strain. After returning in December, he failed to secure a starting spot under Julen Lopetegui, who was later sacked. Despite netting a consolation goal against Manchester City, Fullkrug's latest hamstring injury sets him back again.

Sports journalist Jacob Steinberg criticized the signing, noting that while Fullkrug isn't a bad player, the decision to bring him in was questionable. This setback is a significant blow for Potter, who is already facing a lack of firepower up front. Michail Antonio is out for the season after a car crash, leaving Potter with limited options. Fullkrug's stats in the Premier League this season—2 goals in 9 games—don't live up to expectations. His expected goals (xG) stand at 1. 42, but the reality is far from impressive. West Ham might now look to bolster their attack, with Brighton's Evan Ferguson reportedly on their radar. Borussia Dortmund's director of football, Sebastian Kehl, revealed that the club didn't plan to sell Fullkrug but felt pressured by West Ham's quick move. At Dortmund, Fullkrug had shown promise with 15 goals and 10 assists in 43 games.

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