Lopetegui Updates on Antonio’s Recovery, Fullkrug’s Fitness, and Upcoming Bournemouth Match

West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui addressed reporters ahead of the Premier League fixture against Bournemouth, scheduled for Monday at 20:00 GMT. The following are the main points from his press conference: The team plans to visit Michail Antonio, who remains hospitalized following a car accident, tomorrow. Lopetegui stated: “The main thing is that we are happy he is recovering well. We are very close to him and his family, and we wish him the best for the coming days. Look at the car crash, it was one miracle – so we are happy for him. He is strong, for sure, and he will recover in the next months. The focus is for him to recover – firstly as a man, before as a player.” Lopetegui mentioned “two little issues” within the squad that require further evaluation “in the next few days” before a “final decision” can be made regarding their participation. Niclas Fullkrug has “fully recovered” from his injury. However, Lopetegui expressed reservations about whether the striker is prepared to start a Premier League game at this point, commenting: “I think it’s good news for us that he is back and he is going to be ready to help us. Let’s see whether he is going to be [starting] or not but, step by step, he is feeling stronger.” When asked if the victory against Wolves on Monday had reduced any pressure on himself or his players, Lopetegui responded: “The pressure is always there in our work. We are talking about the Premier League so each match is very difficult. In the same way, each match is a very good opportunity and challenge. We are working to be ready to show our best phase against Bournemouth.” He anticipates a challenging encounter with Bournemouth, who currently hold eighth place in the Premier League standings. He stated: “We have to be ready to show our strengths and compete. I think that is what we’re going to need against a team that is going to demand a lot. In my opinion, they are the best at home – so we are going to be ready to give a good answer there.” Regarding their strategy, Lopetegui indicated his team would concentrate on “the things that are under our control” and be prepared to provide a “good answer, believe in ourselves and go there with the right mentality.” Lopetegui also commended his compatriot, Andoni Iraola, for his “very well” performance with the Cherries, noting their home victories against Manchester City and Tottenham this season. He remarked: “At the start, he had some problems but they allowed him to show his quality as a coach. It is showing now and he is doing very well. He has a team with good players too, so that’s why they are a strong challenge for us. Their demands for how we have to be, in these matches, are very high.” In response to a question about the beginning of his managerial tenure at London Stadium, he stated: “I enjoy my work, always. I love to be here and manage West Ham. We didn’t have the start we wanted, but I think we are improving things.” He further commented: “I’m happy with the behaviour and commitment of the players. I’m happy with the kind of club that I’m working at, so I enjoy my work every day.”