Fullkrug returns, teammate axed after stinker — West Ham predicted XI v Tottenham
West Ham United will face Tottenham in the Premier League on Sunday, with Niclas Fullkrug potentially returning to the starting lineup.
The London Stadium will host Spurs on 4 May as both teams look to end their seasons on a high note after some disappointing months.
Graham Potter’s team are 17th in the Premier League, but the North London outfit are just one point ahead after having their own issues under Ange Postecoglou.
The Hammers are coming off a 3-2 loss to Brighton at the Amex on 26 April, and the English manager will arguably make changes to his team for Spurs’ visit.
James Ward-Prowse axed from West Ham lineup v Tottenham
James Ward-Prowse had a game to forget against Brighton and was rightfully hooked off at half-time as Potter replaced the 30-year-old English midfielder with Fullkrug.
The Irons took the lead in the 83rd minute through Tomas Soucek before Kaoru Mitoma and Carlos Baleba scored late for the hosts to seal the three points.
| Competition | Matches | Assist(s) | Minutes played |
| Premier League | 11 | 1 | 803 |
Considering the German striker’s recent form, he should start over Ward-Prowse against Tottenham, while the rest of the team remains unchanged.
The former Southampton ace has been a regular under Potter, but his influence on games has dwindled in recent matches.
Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kusus to be pivotal v Spurs
Jarrod Bowen has been subject to transfer speculation away from the London Stadium after standing out in East London over the years.
The England international has arguably been the Hammers’ best player this season despite their struggles, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him leave for pastures new next summer.
Mohammed Kudus is another player Potter could lose in the upcoming transfer window after he’s showcased his potential at the Irons.
West Ham should rely on the two wingers to give Fullkrug the service needed if he starts against Spurs.
Bowen and Kudus also have the capability of being a threat behind the usual highline that the North London outfit play under Postecoglou.
It seems like the perfect game to start Fullkrug, who could be crucial in holding up the ball and linking up with his attacking teammates.
While the midfield pivot of Lucas Paqueta and Soucek may be weak, Bowen and Kudus can come deeper and play more narrow, with Emerson and Aaron Wan-Bissaka providing support down the wing.
Potter is already under pressure at the London Stadium and needs to figure out his plan sooner rather than later.