Chelsea will hope to return to winning ways
Image credit: Chelsea Perspective
Chelsea will host West London rivals Fulham at Stamford Bridge in a crucial Premier League clash.
As the Blues aim to keep pace with league leaders Liverpool, this derby promises to be a test of Chelsea’s resilience and Fulham’s defensive organization.
Chelsea currently sits second in the Premier League standings with 35 points, four points behind leaders Liverpool. Their recent 0-0 draw against Everton ended an eight-match winning streak across all competitions.
Fulham is positioned ninth in the league table, having drawn four of their last five matches, including a recent 0-0 stalemate with Southampton.
Team News
Chelsea: Defenders Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile remain sidelined due to long-term injuries. Midfielder Romeo Lavia is out with a thigh injury.
Winger Mykhailo Mudryk is suspended following a contested anti-doping test result. Marc Cucurella returns from suspension and is expected to feature.
Fulham: Right-back Kenny Tete is unavailable due to injury, with Timothy Castagne likely to continue in defense. Reiss Nelson remains out with a hamstring issue, while Emile Smith Rowe could return after missing the previous match.
Key Players to Watch
Chelsea: Midfielder Enzo Fernández has been instrumental in orchestrating play, while forward Nicolas Jackson’s pace poses a significant threat to defenses.
Fulham: Midfielder João Palhinha is crucial in breaking up opposition play, and winger Harry Wilson offers creativity and crossing ability from the flanks.
Marco Silva on Tosin Adarabioyo who joined Chelsea from Fulham last summer:
He was a good professional, good lad, always open to learn and quality player. And because he’s a quality player, the reason he’s playing right now at Chelsea and doing so well.
Prediction
Considering Chelsea’s strong home form and Fulham’s recent defensive solidity, a competitive match is anticipated. However, Chelsea’s attacking prowess may give them the edge.
Predicted Score: Chelsea 2-1 Fulham
Alan Shearer predicts Chelsea vs Fulham:
Fulham were pretty weak in forward positions against Southampton and Chelsea didn’t get the result they wanted against Everton, but they’re back at home, so I’m going to go for a Chelsea win in this one.
Chris Sutton backs Chelsea to beat Fulham 2-1:
Chelsea will be disappointed not to have beaten Everton on Sunday, but I don’t see them failing to fire again here. They are back on home turf, and they should be back to winning ways.
Do you know?
Chelsea have won their previous three matches against Fulham.