A Start For Ings?

Julen Lopetegui might have no option but to start Danny Ings when West Ham face Fulham this Saturday. With limited striker options, the 32-year-old could get a rare starting opportunity.

Ings has played just five minutes of Premier League football this season, with Michail Antonio preferred to lead the line in all three league games so far. However, Lopetegui’s choices are limited as the international break concludes.

Niclas Fullkrug, the club’s £27 million summer signing, picked up a suspected Achilles and calf injury during Germany’s training session and has returned to London for treatment. Fullkrug is reportedly suffering from Achilles tendonitis, which could sideline him for at least two to three weeks, though more severe cases may take longer.

While Antonio would typically be the obvious choice, his international commitments with Jamaica complicate matters. Antonio has already played 90 minutes in a 0-0 draw with Cuba and is scheduled to face Honduras in a late-night match on September 11. With little time for rest and travel back to London, starting him against Fulham might not be feasible.

This situation could force Lopetegui to turn to Ings, or experiment with alternatives like Jarrod Bowen or Mohammed Kudus playing centrally. Ings now seems likely to get his chance, with West Ham relying on his experience and ability to step up in a crucial fixture