West Ham forward back in training ahead of Manchester City match | OneFootball

Nuno Espirito Santo says Niclas Fullkrug has been back in training ahead of the game against Manchester City.

The striker has not featured in the last three games but could return when the Hammers travel to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

“Niclas Fullkrug returned to part of the session today,” Espirito Santo said.

“Malick (Diouf) and Aaron (Wan-Bissaka) are out (due to AFCON). For the game, we’re going to have everyone available I hope.”

Fullkrug has had a stop start spell at West Ham since signing last summer due to persistent injury problems.

The 32-year-old has been linked with a move away from the east London but Espirito Santo says he is firmly focused on having the Germany forward involved once again.

“I can only speak since I arrived,” the Hammers boss said.

“Niclas started both of the first two games and what is delaying him is these small injuries that keep putting him out.

“It is difficult for any player that does not have the continuity of games to reach his best.

“Unfortunately we have this situation when players play, come out, stay, and it is tough because you need minutes and they don’t have it. Let’s hope for the best.

“All the players who are in the building are options as long as they are healthy, training well and working well.

“We have many players that have their own expectations – individual, national team, all these things.

“I try to ignore all the noise because I see every day. Niclas joined the group today for part of the session. He did it, and let’s see tomorrow.

“All the players are going to be the same. The noise around transfers, I’m not going to listen to that because I don’t know. I’m not part of those conversations.”