Fullkrug could be available for Milan trip to Como despite toe injury

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 had suggested that Fullkrug was facing a spell on the sidelines after suffering a fracture to a toe during Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Fiorentina, a match rescued late on by a goal from Christopher Nkunku.

However, Sky Italia now report, via Goal, that the issue is less serious than first feared, with medical staff downgrading the injury to a minor fracture of the phalanx.

Encouragingly for Milan, Fullkrug has already returned to training with the rest of the squad at Milanello.

While his inclusion in the matchday squad is not yet guaranteed, the fact he has been able to train has reopened the possibility of a call-up for the rearranged fixture at the Sinigaglia.

The final decision will depend on how the striker feels during Thursday morning’s final training session. If he is able to manage the pain, he could be made available to Massimiliano Allegri, although a starting role is not expected.

Even in the event of a last-minute recovery, Fullkrug would likely begin the match on the bench, with Milan expected to line up with Rafael Leão in attack alongside either Nkunku or Christian Pulisic, with the Frenchman currently favoured.