Arsenal loanee ruled out for 10 weeks with injury

Reiss Nelson’s season has taken a hit, with Fulham manager Marco Silva confirming the Arsenal loanee will be sidelined until February following a hamstring injury sustained in their 3-1 victory over Brighton.

Silva told reporters when asked about injured players ahead of his side’s game against Liverpool this weekend, “Reiss Nelson is going to be longer. Difficult to say when he’s going to be back, but probably around 10 weeks he’s going to be out, for sure.”

The injury is another frustrating chapter in Nelson’s career, which has been punctuated by recurring fitness issues. His latest setback occurred in the 71st minute of last Thursday’s match, forcing him off the pitch in clear distress with a hamstring injury.

The 24-year-old winger has been dogged by injuries. During the 2022/23 campaign, Nelson missed over 100 days at Arsenal due to thigh problems. A subsequent loan spell at Feyenoord saw him sidelined for 12 matches, and across his career, he has battled various issues, from hamstring and thigh strains to knee, back, ankle, and head injuries, amounting to over 40 games missed.

Nelson’s absence will be keenly felt at Fulham, where he has shown flashes of his potential during his season-long loan. However, his future at Craven Cottage appears uncertain. The deal between Fulham and Arsenal does not include an option or obligation to buy, and reports suggest Nelson is not in Arsenal’s long-term plans despite having three years remaining on his contract when he returns in the summer.

Despite his fitness concerns, Nelson’s talent has attracted interest, with West Ham and Ipswich vying for his services last summer before Fulham secured his loan. Yet, his time in west London is unlikely to extend beyond this season, leaving the winger at a crossroads as he approaches his prime years.

Nelson’s next steps will be critical. His talent is undeniable, but repeated injuries have stymied his progress. Whether his future lies at another Premier League club or abroad, the decisions made in the coming months will shape the trajectory of his career.

For now, Nelson’s focus will be on recovery, hoping to return to Fulham’s campaign and make a mark before his loan spell concludes.