Niclas Fullkrug’s toe injury has been downgraded to a minor phalanx fracture and he’s back in training, making him a late option for Thursday’s trip to Como. Betting tip: back Milan to win but avoid Fullkrug as a goalscorer — favour Leão, Nkunku or Pulisic in anytime/first-goal markets or look at substitute-scorer prop bets.
Fullkrug back in contention after toe injury downgraded
Niclas Fullkrug could make a quicker-than-expected return for Milan after a toe problem suffered in the recent 1-1 draw with Fiorentina was reassessed by the club’s medical staff and downgraded to a minor fracture of a phalanx. The striker has resumed training with the squad at Milanello and is being monitored ahead of Thursday’s Serie A trip to Como.
Fitness check to decide availability
Fullkrug’s inclusion in the matchday squad is not guaranteed. The final call will hinge on how he responds to Thursday morning’s final training session and whether he can manage pain during team work. If passed fit, the 29-year-old is more likely to be named on the bench than in the starting XI, with management preferring to protect him from heavy minutes.
Expected attacking setup if Fullkrug is eased in
Even if Fullkrug makes the matchday list, Milan are expected to keep the front line unchanged at kick-off, with Rafael Leão leading the attack alongside either Christopher Nkunku or Christian Pulisic — Nkunku currently the frontrunner for the second spot. Fullkrug would likely be introduced as an impact substitute, offering fresh legs late in the game rather than a full 90-minute role.
Impact on team selection and tactics
An eased return for Fullkrug gives manager Massimiliano Allegri an extra option off the bench but preserves the club’s preferred attacking balance. The change limits the risk of disrupting rhythm while still providing a physical target and finishing option if the game requires a different approach in the closing stages.
Betting implications for punters
Punters should note the reduced likelihood of Fullkrug starting and factor that into goalscorer markets. Safer plays include backing Milan to win or backing Leão, Nkunku or Pulisic in anytime/first-goal markets. Consider substitute-scorer props if Fullkrug is listed on the bench. Avoid heavy stakes on Fullkrug to score from the off; look also at match markets and totals where his limited minutes would have less impact.
Official dates and kick-off times for Serie A Week 23 and 24
Niclas Fullkrug could make a quicker-than-expected return for Milan, with the German striker now in contention for Thursday’s Serie A trip to Como despite concerns over a toe injury.Initial reports ...
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