The injury, though not yet confirmed in its severity, is expected to rule him out of action for at least the short term, leaving the Hammers without one of their key attacking options.
Potter now faces an anxious wait as several other first-team regulars remain on international duty. Lucas Paquetá is featuring for Brazil, Tomáš Souček has captained the Czech Republic, Jarrod Bowen continues to be involved with England, while Malick Diouf and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are also away with their respective nations. With the Premier League set to resume this weekend, the West Ham boss will be desperate for all five to return unscathed.
The timing of Füllkrug’s setback is particularly frustrating, with the Hammers preparing for a crucial run of fixtures. West Ham will resume domestic action against a direct rival in the league table before turning their attention back to Europe, where Potter is keen to build on a strong start in continental competition.
Füllkrug’s absence could force Potter into a tactical reshuffle. Jarrod Bowen has proven capable of leading the line in the past, while January signing Jhon Durán may be given more minutes to prove himself. Much will depend on Paquetá’s availability, with the Brazilian playmaker central to the team’s attacking rhythm.
For Potter, the international break has become less about resting his squad and more about hoping his core group comes through a busy fortnight intact. Any further setbacks could disrupt momentum at a time when West Ham are looking to consolidate their top-half push and remain competitive on multiple fronts.
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