Niclas Fullkrug misses out for West Ham against Fulham today.

The striker picked up a knock away on international duty with Germany.

“We're trying to evaluate everything, physically and mentally,“ the Hammers boss said on Thursday. “Both things are important. We'll know more later today.

“He has a bit of a problem, which is a pity, but we'll see later today. I think tomorrow we'll take the final decision about him.”

At the other end of the field, there is positive news with first-choice keeper Alphonse Areola fully recovered from the injury that forced him off in the 3-1 home loss to Man City on August 31.

Otherwise, it is likely to be the same team that put up a great fight against the champions, with Guido Rodgriguez and Edson Alvarez set to continue their South American pairing in the midfield, and Michail Antonio leading the line once more.

The Irons have had a mixed start to the Premier League season with two home losses and a win at Crystal Palace, albeit their overall performances have been quite impressive under new manager Lopetegui, particularly after a summer of squad turnover.

They will be hoping to repeat their success at Selhust Park when they travel west to face Marco Silva’s Cottagers in their second London derby of the campaign.

Starting West Ham XI: Areola; Wan Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Emerson; Rodriguez, Alvarez; Bowen, Soucek, Kudus, Antonio

Subs: Fabianski, Cresswell, Soler, Coufal, Summerville, Paqueta, Ings, Todibo,, Irving

Time and date: 3pm BST today on Saturday, September 14, 2024

Venue: Craven Cottage