Tottenham have received a crucial boost ahead of their upcoming derby against West Ham United.
It has been confirmed that Hammers striker Niclas Fullkrug will miss the fixture due to injury.
Spurs, looking to bounce back from a 3-2 defeat to Brighton before the international break, are determined to secure a much-needed win against their London rivals.
Tottenham boost: Fullkrug will not be available for West Ham
The news of Fullkrug’s absence offers a significant advantage for Ange Postecoglou’s side, as the German forward was initially expected to recover in time for the match.
However, West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui has confirmed that Fullkrug remains unfit to make the trip to North London.
The 31-year-old striker, who joined West Ham this past summer in a reported £27 million move from Borussia Dortmund, has had a difficult start to life at the club, struggling with injuries.
Despite his slow start, Fullkrug is a dangerous player with the potential to change the course of any match, so his absence provides Tottenham with a potential edge on the defensive front.
Heung-min Son and Richarlison set to return
In addition to the news about Fullkrug, Spurs have received some positive updates on their own injury situation.
Team captain Heung-min Son, who has been sidelined since the club’s 3-0 victory over Qarabag in the Europa League, is expected to return to action for the derby.
Richarlison, who has been out for the past eight matches due to a knee injury, is also nearing a return, further strengthening Tottenham’s attack, with Ange stating he is good to go as well.
Though young winger Wilson Odobert remains out with a hamstring issue, the return of both Son and Richarlison will undoubtedly bolster Spurs’ attacking options as they look to regain form in the Premier League.
With Fullkrug unavailable for West Ham and key players making their return, Tottenham will look to capitalise on this opportunity and secure an important win in front of their home supporters.