West Ham United step up striker search as new Marcus Rashford claim made

West Ham United are now "desperately" hunting a new striker this month after Niclas Fullkrug was injured in their defeat at Aston Villa, according to Jacob Steinberg.

The Guardian journalist posted on X (11 January) to report that after a hamstring issue forced Fullkrug off just 16 minutes into their FA Cup third round tie, the Hammers are in clear need of a new face up front.

Evan Ferguson remains an option for the Irons, but they await confirmation of his availability from Brighton, while Steinberg also poured water on the prospects of Marcus Rashford joining on loan.

He said: "West Ham desperately hunting for a striker after last night’s injury to Fullkrug. Evan Ferguson on loan an option but unclear if Brighton let him go.

"Alternatives being considered but view inside club is almost no chance of loaning Marcus Rashford despite links this week."

Graham Potter faces huge January task at West Ham United

Despite starting his Hammers reign in the exact same fashion as predecessor Julen Lopetegui – a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa – Graham Potter's debut match left plenty of encouragement for the traveling fans.

However, Fullkrug being on the end of yet more injury problems and only being able to complete 16 first-half minutes will be a huge cause of concern for the new Irons boss, given his lack of options in attack.

With Michail Antonio sidelined for the long-term and Fullkrug's fitness completely unreliable from what we've seen so far, signing a striker in January is absolutely paramount for Potter to achieve anything.

Given the squad he's been left with by Tim Steidten following Lopetegui's sacking, one which lacks pace and depth in key positions, Potter will put pressure on his technical director to fix these obvious errors.

Steidten's squad-building over summer has come under heavy scrutiny – and will do so from Potter – yet it remains to be seen if he can find his new manager the Premier League-quality striker the Irons need.

In other West Ham news, Richard Keys gave a less-than-glowing assessment after Potter's appointment at the London Stadium.

For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp channelfor instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.