Results| Saturday |
Villa | 6-1 | Brighton |
Bournemouth | 0-4 | Arsenal |
Everton | 1-2 | Luton |
Man Utd | 0-1 | Palace |
Newcastle | 2-0 | Burnley |
West Ham | 2-0 | Sheff Utd |
Wolves | 2-1 | Man City |
Spurs | 2-1 | Liverpool |
Chilwell, Chukwuemeka, Madueke - Chelsea injury news and return dates for Fulham clash
Mauricio Pochettino is facing an injury crisis at Stamford Bridge with a number of key Chelsea players currently sidelined with issues ahead of the clash against Fulham
Mauricio Pochettino has provided a worrying update on Ben Chilwell's fitness ahead of the Fulham clash on Monday. The England international is expected to be sidelined for up to four weeks with a hamstring problem.
Reece James is closing in on a return to action - but is facing a ban which could delay his involvement for Chelsea ahead of the international break. Carney Chukwuemeka has stepped up his recovery from injury and could feature for the Blues prior to the international break.
Christopher Nkunku and Wesley Fofana remain sidelined for a significant period of time. So, with that being said, football.london has rounded up all the Chelsea injury news from Stamford Bridge.
Reece James
According to the Daily Mail, Reece James is close to returning to full training. The report states that the right-back could be ready to 'accelerate' his involvement next week, with the Premier League tie against Burnley on October 7 described as 'too soon'.
Instead, there is 'hope' that he will be ready after the upcoming international break when Chelsea lock horns with Arsenal on October 21. All eyes of James.
What Pochettino has said: "He's recovering well. I don't know if he's close or not because we assess him every single day but he's started to do things on the pitch with the ball. He's really well. He's desperate to play for the team. Yes, I hope it's close, also so he can be available before the next international break."
Noni Madueke
Noni Madueke was not named in the matchday squad for the Blues' midweek clash against Brighton. He picked up a knock during international duty but the issue doesn't seem serious, with the winger taking part in training at Cobham on Monday.
What Pochettino has said: "It's about choice."
Expected return date: Fulham (A) - Monday, October 2
Ben Chilwell
Ben Chilwell was forced off the pitch after colliding with Billy Gilmour in the dying embers of Chelsea's clash with Brighton. Once helped to his feet by the club medics, the left-back managed to walk off and around the pitch by himself without showing any signs of discomfort.
What Pochettino has said: "It was bad that it was in the last minute of the game, and of course, we are really sad about the news around Ben. Time, it's difficult to know now because it was less than two days since it happened.
"We need to assess him over the next few days, and for sure the club will communicate."
Expected return date: Brentford (H) - Saturday, October 28
Carney Chukwuemeka
Chukwuemeka was the only goalscorer in the side's 3-1 loss to West Ham, but a knee injury just before half-time saw him leave the London Stadium on crutches. football.london understands that Chukwuemeka was expected to be out for a possible six weeks, but he could be back sooner rather than later.
On Tuesday, September 26, Chelsea confirmed that Chukwuemeka had returned to partial training at Cobham.
What Pochettino has said: "I think maybe Carney [will be available], and of course Noni [Madueke] also. After his issue [he had] when he came back from the national team, he's getting ready and working hard. I hope these two players are available for selection on Monday."
Expected return date: Burnley (A) - Saturday, October 7
Benoit Badiashile
Badiashile missed the opening weeks of the season with a hamstring injury picked up at the end of the 2022/23 season, but a return seems close. The club's official social media account posted a video of Badiashile back in training action on Monday, though Pochettino confirmed he would not be ready to return just yet.
Chelsea confirmed that Badiashile resumed partial team training on Tuesday, September 26, after suffering a minor setback earlier in the month.
What Pochettino has said: "Yeah [he had a setback] but it was in a different muscle but it was minor, it was small."
Expected return date: Fulham (A) - Monday, October 2
Romeo Lavia
Lavia is yet to feature for Chelsea, with Pochettino eager for him to catch up to the rest of the squad's fitness levels before getting involved. The Belgian midfielder is said to have suffered a muscle tear on his ankle during the international break which could delay his debut for the Blues further.
football.london understands that the ankle injury is set to keep Lavia out of action for at least one month, meaning he may not feature until at least October.
What Pochettino has said: "We are really disappointed because he was training really well last week in the international break. He twisted his ankle and now we are waiting for the results on Monday from the doctor. We hope it's not a big issue but in the last week, he has not been training with the team.
"It's a sad situation because he was nearly fit to be involved again with the team. Yes, now we need to wait and hopefully, it's not a big issue for him and the team of course.
"We don't know [when he'll be back] because we need to assess him. He twisted his ankle and now we need to assess him. We do not know the time for him to recover."
Expected return date: October.
Trevoh Chalobah
Trevoh Chalobah is still yet to make an appearance this season and was expected to depart during the transfer window as well. The defender has been struggling with fitness since pre-season.
During Chelsea's pre-season tour of the United States, he went often down twice during matches and had to be taken off on both occasions. He also hasn't been seen in training since and no update has since been given other than the club's weekly general statement.
What Pochettino has said: "He [Benoit Badiashile] was training with Reece James. I think Reece and Chukwuemeka and also Chalobah are very close to start training with the team."
Expected return date: Fulham (A) - Monday, October 2
Christopher Nkunku
Nkunku has been sidelined since being substituted against Borussia Dortmund in the club's final pre-season game. A major blow to the Blues' squad after arriving for over £60million in the summer, Pochettino admitted he'd be sorely missed in the first half of the season.
What Pochettino has said: "We feel very sorry about him. He was doing well, he was very important player for us. I think the quality is there, one of the best offensive players that can play in different positions always is a big issue for us. Now it's about not thinking too much about the injuries and being positive about when he can be again with us and recover as soon as possible in a good way.
"We are working in the market also, we are going to miss one player like this. The club is working, trying to find a solution, maybe short term, medium and long term to add the right profile for the team to perform for now."
What Nkunku has said: "As you can imagine, I'm so disappointed not to be able to be with my team-mates during the start of the season. It's hard not to have been able to meet you guys at the Bridge. I will work hard to come back stronger. It's only a matter of time."
Expected return date: January 2024
Wesley Fofana
Fofana is set for another significant spell on the sidelines after rupturing his ACL.
What Pochettino has said: "Really sad, really bad news. We feel so sad. We can only help him and to be again with the team we know it is tough. We need to help him and wish him all the best. We need to keep going, the competition is there. The competition doesn't wait for anyone and we need to be ready.
"I hope yes. You have all of the information that this is difficult. He is evolving in a different way but hopefully, his recovery goes very well."
Expected return date: Spring 2024
https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/chelsea-injury-news-chilwell-update-27816035
Dream Chelsea lineup vs Fulham as Mauricio Pochettino makes Cole Palmer and Ian Maatsen decision
Mauricio Pochettino has some big decisions to make ahead of Chelsea's clash against Fulham with Cole Palmer potentially making his full Premier League debut for the Blues
Mauricio Pochettino has some big decisions ahead of him for Chelsea's Premier League trip to west London rivals Fulham on Monday. Fresh off the back of a much-needed win against Brighton earlier in the week, the Argentine head coach is now tasked with trying to build some momentum within this struggling Blues squad.
Pochettino was in a very pleasant mood as he spoke to the media at Cobham on Friday afternoon – the feeling a rare win gives you. He will be hoping to share similar spirits on Tuesday morning, with his Chelsea side going head-to-head with Fulham at Craven Cottage on Monday.
Before that, Pochettino is tasked with some big decisions regarding his team selection. While Carney Chukwuemeka is close to returning, Ben Chilwell is now set for a spell on the sidelines.
Chilwell came off in the final minutes of Chelsea's Carabao Cup win versus Brighton and the early indications are that it is not good news for the Blues vice-captain. Left-back, though, is one area in particular where the club are well stocked.
Ian Maatsen should come in for Chilwell after an impressive performance on Wednesday. Albeit Maatsen was playing in a more advanced position than his natural left-back, but either way the Dutchman did enough to start against Fulham.
Axel Disasi looks set to start at right-back with Malo Gusto and Reece James out, while Levi Colwill could move centrally to partner Thiago Silva. Robert Sanchez, of course, keeps his place in goal.
A double pivot of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez is something Chelsea supporters have been dying to see ever since the former signed in the summer. Enzo has been playing in a more advanced role, but his form recently has not been up to his usual high standards, so maybe a change of position is on the cards?
That would allow an extra attacker, too, and Cole Palmer could make his full Premier League debut for the Blues. Palmer was superb in Chelsea's win against Brighton and Pochettino spoke in detail about how impressed he has been with the England Under-21s international since he has made the move to Stamford Bridge.
Noni Madueke and Chukwuemeka could both return to the squad but are unlikely to be called upon from the start. Instead, he could play Raheem Sterling on the right and continue to persist with Mykhailo Mudryk on the opposite flank as he looks to instil confidence in the Ukraine international.
Nicolas Jackson will serve his one-match ban on Monday night. Chelsea do not have too many options but if they wanted to play with a natural centre-forward, then Armando Broja will return to the starting XI for the first time this season.
Dream Chelsea lineup: Sanchez, Disasi, Silva, Colwill, Maatsen, Caicedo, Enzo, Sterling, Palmer, Mudryk, Broja
https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/chelsea-fulham-pochettino-palmer-maatsen-27813540
Foxes inflict Fulham U21's first defeat
Leicester City inflicted Fulham under 21s first defeat of the season as they triumphed 3-1 at Motspur Park this evening in a clinical away performance.
Hayden Mullins' Whites were always chasing the game after a dreadful start that saw their youthful defence concede twice in the first nine minutes. The rapid Amani Richards streaked away from young left back Jonathan Esenga and his low cross-shot was turned home by Wanya Marcal. The hosts nearly found an equaliser immediately as Ollie O'Neill shot wide having been presented with the ball by visiting goalkeeper Brad Young.
The visitors made Fulham pay for that miss as they doubled their lead in the ninth minute. Arjan Raikhy threaded a fine ball through the square home defence and Silko Thomas kept his composure as Alex Borto rushed out to meet him, slipping a low finish past the American to give the Foxes a commanding advantage.
Luke Harris, operating just behind Kristan Šekularac who once again started as a lone striker, shot straight at the goalkeeper before left back Esenga curled a magnificent free-kick over the wall and past Young from nineteen yards out to give the young Whites a foothold. Fulham dominated the remainder of the first half but a well-drilled Leicester defence denied them any further clear-cut chances.
Mullins introduced one Australian for another at the start of the second half, with summer signing Chris Donnell replacing Tyrese Francois in central midfield. Samuel Amissah, making his under-21 debut, popped up in the Leicester box to latch onto a good ball from Šekularac but couldn't find a finish. The hosts went even closer when Donnell crashed a header against the woodwork from Devan Tanton's fine cross.
Fulham kept pushing for a leveller but this left them vulnerable to a sucker punch on the counter-attack. Richards almost provided it with five minutes to play, hitting the bar after darting infield and unleashing a lovely strike, but Fulham were the architects of their own downfall as Leicester secured all three points deep in the last minute. Substitute Kian Pennant seized on a weak back pass from Donnell, beating a stranded Borto the ball, rounding the American goalkeeper and ending Leicester's four-match losing run.
Fulham's defeat might have been heftier had Borto not brilliantly saved a Richards' penalty six minutes in stoppage time after de Fougerolles had been penalised for a foul. The young Whites will look to bounce back from their first defeat of what has been a fine campaign when they face the Foxes again – this time in the Premier League Cup – at Motspur Park next Friday night.
FULHAM UNDER 21s (4-2-3-1): Borto; Tanton, Esenga, de Fougerolles, Amissah; Francois (Donnell 45), Pajaziti; Works (McFarlane 56), O'Neill, Harris; Šekularac (Okkas 73). Subs (not used): Allen, Lanquedoc.
BOOKED: Esenga, de Fougerolles.
GOAL: Esenga (24).
LEICESTER CITY UNDER 21s (3-4-2-1): Young; Nelson, Wilson-Brown (Godsmark-Ford 75), Appiah; Cover, Hill (Amartey 60), Cartwright (Ali 75), Raikhy; Richards, Marcal (Pennant 89); Thomas. Subs (not used): Doherty.
BOOKED: Nelson, Cover, Thomas.
GOALS: Marcal (5), Thomas (8), Pennant (89).
REFEREE: Kirsty Dowle.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/foxes-inflict-fulham-u21s-first-defeat/
Fulham considering January move for Manchester United's Scott McTominay?
Fulham have reportedly shown interest in signing Manchester United's Scott McTominay in January.
Erik ten Hag was believed to be keen on McTominay's departure over the summer, but despite interest from West Ham United, he stayed put.
The Scottish international was sparsely used at Old Trafford before the closing of the transfer window, playing just nine minutes before the September international break.
McTominay would then go on to feature twice for Scotland, scoring again to keep up their strong hopes of reaching Euro 2024.
The midfielder's goalscoring influence has been vital for the Scots, as he has netted six goals in five qualifiers so far as they top Group A.
After staying at the club, Ten Hag has opted to use McTominay more often now, starting him in both league matches against Brighton & Hove Albion and Burnley.
However, the Manchester Evening News claims that is not putting any potential suitors off from pursuing a move for him, with Fulham supposedly open to a January move for McTominay.
Fulham had McTominay in their shortlist when it appeared likely that Joao Palhinha would move to Bayern Munich late in the window.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg was also touted as a player of interest to the Cottagers, but after Palhinha's move fell through, Fulham pulled the plug on any potential deals.
With Bayern expected to reopen discussions when the window reopens though, Fulham could still be back in the market for a midfielder, and McTominay is expected to be high on their list.
McTominay's exit could therefore open a space in the United squad for them to sign Hojbjerg from Tottenham Hotspur.
Another report from the Manchester Evening News states that United would like to add more depth to their midfield, especially if McTominay decides to move on.
Hojbjerg has fallen out of favour at Tottenham since Ange Postecoglou arrived as manager, with the Dane not starting a single Premier League game this season.
With it appearing unlikely Hojbjerg will be able to dislodge the current midfield partnership of Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr, he could decide to move in January.
Juventus could provide competition for Hojbjerg, but it is expected that they will only be open to a loan deal, as they are unable to meet Spurs' £26m valuation.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-utd/transfer-talk/news/fulham-considering-january-move-for-man-uniteds-mctominay_525350.html?newsnow
Robert Sanchez on life under Mauricio Pochettino and confidence ahead Chelsea vs Fulham
Robert Sanchez was signed as a number two but the rapid exit of Kepa Arrizabalaga has meant he's had to quickly step up.
Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez says the trust of Mauricio Pochettino has made him comfortable and kicking him to give his best for the club every game.
Sanchez has conceded six goals in the league so far but can also be proud of his performance against Bournemouth and Aston Villa, making seven saves that earned them a point against the Cherries and kept the score respectable against Unai Emery's side.
He admits the win against his former side Brighton in the League Cup will lift the team and renew their energy going into the game against Fulham on Monday night.
He told reporters: "We play well, we're not conceding too many goals, the team does everything well but we can't finalize. We're trying, we're getting better, it's just a matter of time, I'm sure this victory gives us confidence, not just because we made it through another round in the cup.
"Nico (Nicolas Jackson) scored, the team won, we must try to do the same vs Fulham I'm happy with Chelsea. I found a manager who trusts me very much, I want to do as much as I can to help the team."
Chelsea need goals to scale up the league table, only Burnley and Luton Town all newly promoted, have scored less than Mauricio Pochettino's side.
The Blues have one of the youngest squads in the squad and last season's 12th-placed finish has meant they do not have any kind of European football this season.
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/chelsea/robert-sanchez-admits-moving-mauricio-pochettino-trait-that-assures-him-chelsea-will-be-good-under-him-4354743
Marco Silva backs Alex Iwobi to make big impact for Fulham after £22m move from Everton
Nigeria international returned to London after coming through at Arsenal
Marco Silva believes Alex Iwobi can play a pivotal role for Fulham this season.
The Nigeria international reunited with his former manager on transfer deadline day, leaving Silva's previous employers Everton for a reported £22m.
Iwobi scored on his first start for the Cottagers in the midweek win over Norwich in the Carabao Cup, teeing up a home tie with Ipswich Town in the fourth round to be played next month.
Silva has backed the 27-year-old to make an impact at Craven Cottage as Fulham prepare to host Chelsea in Monday night's Premier League west London derby.
"It was very good [Iwobi's performance against Norwich]," Silva said.
"He's a player I know really well, he knows the Premier League so well and he's mature. He has the quality, can play in many different positions and is a player that will give us the quality that we need in certain parts of the game.
"He provides that extra energy as well. It was good for him to score on his first game in a Fulham shirt and I want to see more of him.
"He's going to be a really important player for us and I am pleased for him for starting his first game."
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/silva-iwobi-fulham-fc-latest-news-premier-league-2023-b1110487.html
Man Utd star warms to 2024 exit after emerging as a top target for ambitious Fulham
Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay could consider leaving the club in the New Year after a report revealed he is still a top target for Fulham.
McTominay will be into the final 18 months of his contract with Man Utd by the time the January transfer window comes around. He could have left the club this summer, but opted to fight for his place.
However, the signings of Mason Mount from Chelsea and Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina have added extra competition, which has worked to the detriment of McTominay.
Therefore, Sky Sports News claims 'he may be more open' to leaving Man Utd in 2024, having been 'reluctant' to find a new club last month.
In turn, he is 'high' up the list of transfer targets for Fulham, who are bracing themselves for another attempt by Bayern Munich to sign Joao Palhinha in January despite the Portugal international signing a new contract at Craven Cottage since the collapsed move.
Fulham have also considered an ambitious raid for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Tottenham Hotspur, but the Denmark international is holding out for bigger clubs.
As a one-club man for Man Utd so far, McTominay would also be an ambitious target for Fulham, despite his decline in fortunes recently. It is not yet clear how much they might have to pay to sign him.
One of the reasons Palhinha's move to Bayern fell through in the summer was the lack of time Fulham had to sign a replacement. Now, they are actively planning ahead of his possible exit in January, which has led them to focus on the Scotland international.
Would Fulham be a good fit for McTominay?
Now 26 years old, McTominay should be approaching the prime of his career, but risks spending it on the bench if he stays at Man Utd.
Having made more than 200 appearances for the club since emerging from their academy, he can be proud of what he has achieved at Old Trafford, even if he hasn't always been the most popular player or utilised to his maximum potential.
A move to Fulham, who finished in the top half of the Premier League table last season, might give him an opportunity to prove himself at a decent level again.
That said, he would be a different kind of midfielder to Palhinha, who is more of an enforcer, so could find himself in a similar situation to what has happened at Man Utd in terms of limiting him.
https://www.teamtalk.com/news/man-utd-star-warms-2024-exit-emerging-top-target-ambitious-fulham
Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo Chelsea prediction made by Fulham boss Marco Silva
Marco Silva believes the price tags of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo fairly reflect their ability
Marco Silva has heaped praise on Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo ahead of Chelsea's visit to Craven Cottage on Monday night. The Fulham manager described the duo, who cost the Blues almost £250million, as 'quality' and expects them to enjoy a 'very good fight' in midfield against Harrison Reed and Joao Palhinha.
"Enzo joined in January and Caicedo in the summer as well," Silva said, as quoted by the Independent. "They're quality. We are talking about two players they almost spent £250 million on. This speaks about the quality and about how much they wanted them in their squad.
"Plus [Conor] Gallagher in the midfield, they have the quality, the energy, they have the organisation to create a very good fight with our midfield line and I think it will be a very good fight because they have that quality."
While Chelsea have numerous players out due to injury, Pochettino still has a wealth of options to choose from in midfield. One of which being another new signing in Cole Palmer, who impressed on his first start for the club against Brighton on Wednesday night.
When asked if the 21-year-old is in line for another start against Fulham, the Blues boss replied: "Yes, maybe yes. I'm so happy with his performance after only a few weeks with us.
"He was able to perform very well and fit very well in the team. He is a talented player, young talented player but I think he is in my mind to start on Monday."
After progressing into the Carabao Cup fourth round during the week, Pochettino is eager to build upon the feel-good feeling at the club. He said: "I think it was a really important victory, not only because that victory puts us into the next round of the Carabao Cup, but to build our trust and for our confidence.
"I think another solid performance which we translate into a victory which the players need, the team need and the fans also need. The effort was fantastic from the team. This situation can make us stronger and make us confident for Monday."
With Nicolas Jackson set to miss the Fulham clash due to suspension and Armando Broja having only recently returned from injury, Pochettino was also asked if he's considering a false-nine. Raheem Sterling and Palmer have both previously played there for Manchester City.
"The most important [thing] is to adapt to the squad and the players that might be available and to try and perform, to find a way to perform," said the Chelsea boss. "We can play with one striker or maybe without a striker. I think it's a difficult few days, I need to think and come up with a decision."
https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/enzo-fernandez-moises-caicedo-chelsea-27817192
Chelsea predicted lineup vs Fulham - Premier League
Chelsea take on Fulham in the Premier League this Monday night
The Blues have an extensive injury list making team selection tough for Mauricio Pochettino
The west London outfit finished two places and eight points below Fulham last season
Mauricio Pochettino was offered some rare respite in midweek as Chelsea managed a narrow victory over Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round.
The Blues have endured an underwhelming start to the new campaign with mediocre performances, poor results and an exponentially growing injury list.
Pochettino will be hoping that Wednesday's win can act as a springboard to success, with Chelsea's trip to Fulham on Monday night their first chance to build some momentum. The Blues' west London rivals will prove stern opposition, but Chelsea need to pick up as many points as they can before a difficult run of fixtures after the October international break.
Chelsea's long list of absentees makes Pochettino's life vastly more difficult, but the Argentine still has plenty of top-quality options at his disposal for the trip to Craven Cottage.
Chelsea predicted lineup vs Fulham (4-2-3-1)
GK: Robert Sanchez - The Spaniard is firmly Chelsea's number one, grabbing his second clean sheet of the season against his old side Brighton in midweek.
RB: Marc Cucurella - The full-back has had a difficult start to life at Stamford Bridge, but arguably put in his strongest performance of his Chelsea career against Brighton. Playing in a less familiar right-back role, Cucerella stood out, likely being utilised in the same position against Fulham due to Malo Gusto's suspension.
CB: Axel Disasi - Has started every game for Chelsea this season and is a necessary inclusion given the club's defensive injuries.
CB: Thiago Silva - Rested against Brighton but should come back into the lineup on Monday, especially given Levi Colwill is likely to move out to left-back.
LB: Levi Colwill - Not a natural yet at full-back, but can offer some much-needed solidity down the left-hand side, even if he lacks a little going forward. Ben Chilwell's injury should make Colwill a shoo-in to start, although Ian Maatsen could fill in too.
CM: Moises Caicedo - The summer signing is finding his feet at Stamford Bridge and Romeo Lavia's injury has left little competition for his place.
CM: Conor Gallagher - One of Pochettino's favourites was rested midweek against Brighton, indicating he's likely to start against Fulham.
RW: Cole Palmer - Impressive on his first start against Brighton and should be given his second against Fulham. He even managed his first assist for the Blues when setting up Nicolas Jackson's winner in midweek.
AM: Enzo Fernandez - Many may not be quite sure as to why Fernandez has been shunted into an attacking-midfield role given his struggles further up the pitch, but Pochettino seems to think he can be a positive influence there.
LW: Mykhailo Mudryk - Starting to show glimpses of his quality after a pretty poor start to his Chelsea career. Needs a couple of goal contributions to get his confidence flowing.
ST: Raheem Sterling - With Jackson suspended and Armando Broja unlikely to be rushed back into the starting lineup after ten months out, Sterling is Pochettino's only viable option up top. The forward has led the line occasionally in the past and will likely feature in more of a false nine role.
https://www.90min.com/posts/chelsea-predicted-lineup-vs-fulham-premier-league-2-10-23
Fulham vs Chelsea - Premier League: TV channel, team news, lineups and prediction
Chelsea travel to Fulham on Monday night in the Premier League
The Blues are looking for a second successive win in all competitions after victory in midweek
Fulham are unbeaten in their last three games and won this fixture last season
Chelsea are looking for only their second Premier League win of the campaign when they travel to west London rivals Fulham on Monday night.
The Blues got back to winning ways when they beat Brighton 1-0 in the Carabao Cup third round in midweek. Mauricio Pochettino will want more of the same from his side when they travel to Craven Cottage, a ground they lost at last season.
Fulham also secured a cup win on Wednesday evening, beating Championship side Norwich City 2-1 on home soil. The Cottagers currently sit above Chelsea in the Premier League having claimed eight points from their first six matches, but defeat on Monday would see the two sides swap places.
Here is all you need to know for Chelsea's trip to Fulham.
What time does Chelsea vs Fulham kick-off?
ocation: London, England
Stadium: Craven Cottage
Date: Monday 2 October
Kick-off Time: 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
Referee: Tim Robinson
VAR: Mark Scholes
Fulham vs Chelsea H2H Record (Last Five Games)
Fulham: 1 win
Chelsea: 3 wins
Draws: 1
Current Form (all competitions)
Fulham: WDWLW
Chelsea: WLDLW
How to watch Fulham vs Chelsea on TV and live stream
Country TV channel / live stream
United Kingdom Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, Sky Ultra HD, Sky GO Extra, Sky Go UK
United States fuboTV, nbcsports.com, NBC Sports App, USA Network, UNIVERSO
Canada fuboTV Canada
Fulham team news
Marco Silva has two confirmed absentees for the visit of Chelsea; centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo and winger Adama Traore, both of whom picked up injuries in mid-September and will not return for several weeks at the very least.
Kenny Tete could return to the first team after missing Fulham's last two games, while Calvin Bassey is also a doubt for the match having come off with a slight knock against Norwich in the Carabao Cup.
Sasa Lukic is in line to finally get back on the pitch after an extended spell on the sidelines. The Serbian midfielder has been missing for the Cottagers since the end of August with an unspecified issue.
Fulham predicted lineup vs Chelsea
Fulham predicted lineup vs Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Ream, Diop, Robinson; Reed, Palhinha; Decordova-Reid, Pereira, Willian; Jimenez.
Chelsea team news
Chelsea's vast injury list has shown few signs of letting up, with Ben Chilwell's name now added to it. The left-back was taken off with a hamstring problem against Brighton in midweek and will definitely miss out on the trip to Craven Cottage.
Nicolas Jackson was Chelsea's matchwinner against Brighton but will be absent for the Fulham clash after somehow picking up five yellow cards in his first six matches. Armando Broja made a brief cameo on Wednesday after ten months sidelined and could be rushed back to the starting lineup due to Jackson's suspension. Raheem Sterling could alternatively lead the line.
Malo Gusto is also suspended following his straight red card against Aston Villa in the Premier League last weekend, leaving Pochettino incredibly short in the full-back position with Reece James still out.
Benoit Badiashile, Marcus Bettinelli, Romeo Lavia, Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka and Christopher Nkunku remain out.
Chelsea predicted lineup vs Fulham
Chelsea predicted lineup vs Fulham (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Cucurella, Disasi, Silva, Colwill; Caicedo, Gallagher; Palmer, Fernandez, Mudryk; Sterling.
Fulham vs Chelsea score prediction
Chelsea may have got the monkey off their back with a midweek win, but it was hardly the most convincing victory against an admittedly tough Brighton side. Confidence may be higher, but injuries are continuing to wreak havoc.
The defensive absentees mean that Pochettino will have to shuffle his backline around, potentially offering Fulham's attackers a boost on Monday night. Jackson's suspension could also cause significant problems up top, with Broja only just returning from a long-term layoff. Pochettino may need to come up with a creative solution there as well.
Fulham won this fixture last season and the return of Joao Palhinha to the starting lineup has been crucial in their improved form in recent weeks. The Cottagers will certainly not be fearing the arrival of their west London rivals, with Silva's side more than capable of coming away with a positive result.
Prediction: Fulham 1-1 Chelsea
https://www.90min.com/posts/fulham-vs-chelsea-premier-league-tv-channel-team-news-lineups-prediction-2-10-23
Fulham vs Chelsea: 3 Blues who must start
On October 3rd, 2023, Chelsea Football Club will face Fulham FC at the Craven Cottage. While Chelsea will be in good spirits after their recent 1-0 victory against Brighton in the EFL Cup, their ongoing Premier League season has not been their best. In fact, the team is placed below rivals Fulham at #14th.
Heading into the game, a concerning star for Chelsea would be that they have failed to register a single victory in the Premier League in their last three games. Hence, the club needs to choose the right players and the right tactics when they face Fulham away from home. In this article, we will look at three players Mauricio Pochettino must select for CFC's game against Fulham.
Three players Chelsea must start against Fulham
#3. Levi Colwill
Before the start of the ongoing season, one of the best decisions Chelsea FC made was to retain Levi Colwill in the squad. While Colwill struggled in the games early on, in recent times he has proved to be dependable in the Chelsea backline. His performance against Brighton in the EFL Cup was noteworthy.
In the game against the Seagulls, Colwill played as a center-back. Throughout the match, the 20-year-old displayed strong positioning and great distribution. To sum up his performance, Colwill proved why he deserves a spot in the starting 11. Hence, it will be crucial for Chelsea to start Colwill if they are to stop Fulham's attack.
#2. Enzo Fernandes
In the last few Premier League games, Enzo Fernandes has not been at his usual best. In 8 appearances for the Blues, Fernandes has only scored one goal and wasn't able to register a single assist. However, that does not take away from the player he is.
While Fernandes' stats have not been the best, plenty of it has to do with the fact that Chelsea, as an attacking unit, has underperformed. Fernandes, on many occasions, has found his teammates. However, they failed to find the back of the net. Regardless, given Fernandes' ability to create chances and drive the attack, it will be necessary for CFC to start the Argentine.
#1. Mykhailo Mudryk
Nicolas Jackson's five yellow cards this season means he won't be available for the game against Fulham. While Armando Broja is available, Chelsea will need someone in touch to start the game against Fulham. This is where Ukrainian attacker Mykhailo Mudryk could come into play.
During his time under Graham Potter, Mudryk played as a false No. 9 on several occasions. The Ukrainian player's move gameplay during that time helped attackers like Joao Felix and Kai Havertz play freely. Given Jackson won't be available for selection, the Blues could experiment with Mudryk up top. He could combine with the likes of Raheem Sterling and Enzo Fernandes to give Chelsea an early lead.
https://theprideoflondon.com/2023/09/30/fulham-chelsea-3-blues-start/
Fulham vs Chelsea: Prediction and PreviewTwo west London rivals face off on Monday with Chelsea hoping to kick-start their season. We look ahead to the game at Craven Cottage with our Fulham vs Chelsea prediction and preview.Fulham vs Chelsea: The Quick Hits Chelsea are slight favourites for Monday's west London derby, with the Opta supercomputer assigning them a 39.7% chance of beating Fulham.
Chelsea have failed to score in their last three Premier League games despite attempting 45 shots in those matches. They last went four league games without a goal under José Mourinho and Avram Grant in September 2007.
Former Chelsea winger Willian, who scored against the Blues in this fixture last season, has netted four of his five Premier League goals for Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Match PreviewChelsea have endured a truly dismal 2023, with even the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino failing to inspire an upturn. The Blues approach Monday's short trip to Craven Cottage without a win in three Premier League games, and Fulham will be desperate to inflict more misery upon their neighbours.
Ollie Watkins' goal condemned Chelsea to defeat against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge on Matchday 6, leaving them floundering on five points. Chelsea have started a league season with just one win from six games for the first time since 2000-01, and even more alarmingly, their 25 points won in 2023 was the joint-lowest among ever-present Premier League teams going into Matchday 7, alongside Everton.
Chelsea did advance in the EFL Cup on Wednesday as Nicolas Jackson scored in a 1-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion. Jackson has only scored once from chances worth 3.79 expected goals in the Premier League, giving him the worst underperformance in the division this term, but he is suspended for Monday's game after becoming the first player to receive five cautions in 2023-24.
In Jackson's absence, Raheem Sterling, Cole Palmer and Armando Broja – who has recovered from a serious knee injury – could be called upon to rectify Chelsea's goalscoring blues. Pochettino's team have failed to score in three successive league games despite attempting 45 shots totalling 5.5 xG during that run. They last went four league matches without a goal in September 2007, with Avram Grant replacing José Mourinho midway through that run.
While Chelsea ended last weekend 14th in the Premier League table, positives can be taken from the underlying data as Opta's expected points model ranks them fourth. While many facets of the Blues' performances have been encouraging, however, they must start taking their chances after underperforming their xG figures by a league-high 6.6 this season.
Reasons for Chelsea Optimism?A substantial injury list hasn't helped Pochettino, who now faces a selection crisis in the full-back positions. Reece James is yet to recover from a hamstring injury, while Ben Chilwell limped out of Wednesday's cup win and Malo Gusto is suspended after seeing red against Villa. Marc Cucurella deputised at right-back against Brighton and may do likewise on Monday.
Fulham finished above Chelsea for the first time since 1983 last season, securing a top-half finish upon their return to the Premier League. After making a solid start to 2023-24 with eight points from six games, Marco Silva's men might hope to repeat the trick this campaign.
Silva's team were held to a goalless draw by Crystal Palace on MD 6, meaning they are winless in nine Premier League London derbies since beating Chelsea 2-1 in this exact fixture in January (four draws, five defeats). Fulham have already faced three capital rivals in 2023-24, losing at home to Brentford (3-0) before drawing at Arsenal (2-2) and Palace.
Fulham have, however, kept back-to-back Premier League clean sheets, which have coincided with João Palhinha returning after the collapse of his proposed move to Bayern Munich. Fulham's most recent run of three successive top-flight shutouts began with a goalless draw against Chelsea in February.
There was no clean sheet to be had when they hosted Norwich City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday, but Fulham fared better in front of goal as Carlos Vinícius and Alex Iwobi scored in a 2-1 win. Vinícius also scored the decisive goal in January's 2-1 win over Chelsea, and he may have played his way into their lineup as Raúl Jiménez's struggles continue.
Since the start of last season, Jiménez has failed to score in 21 Premier League appearances for Wolves and Fulham despite amassing 3.23 xG, the highest figure of any player without a top-flight goal in that time.
With Fulham's frontline failing to fire, ex-Chelsea winger Willian may have a key role to play in attack. He opened the scoring against his former club when they last visited Craven Cottage, and four of his five league goals for Fulham have come on home soil. Bobby De Cordova-Reid should keep his place on the right with Adama Traoré sidelined, while Kenny Tete faces a fitness test ahead of kick-off.
Fulham vs Chelsea Head-to-HeadChelsea have traditionally had Fulham's number in Premier League matches, but that was not the case last season, when Fulham took four points against the Blues (one win, one draw) to match their return from their previous 15 games against them (four draws, 11 defeats).
Chelsea are now looking to avoid losing on consecutive trips to Craven Cottage, having last lost back-to-back away league games against Fulham in the second tier in April 1977.
The last meeting between the teams was a goalless draw at Stamford Bridge in February, a game which saw Enzo Fernández make his Chelsea debut.
Across the last 14 Premier League meetings between Fulham and Chelsea, Monday's hosts have only led for a total of 39 minutes, all of which came in January's 2-1 home triumph.
Recent FormChelsea are looking to improve their dire away record on Monday, having won on just two of their last 16 Premier League road trips (five draws, nine defeats). They are winless in four away league games since May's 3-1 victory at Bournemouth.
Fulham, meanwhile, have only won two of their last 19 Premier League home games against fellow London clubs (three draws, 14 defeats), going five such games without a win (one draw, four defeats) since overcoming Chelsea earlier this year.
Pochettino has managed one win, two draws and three defeats in his first six Premier League games with Chelsea, having posted an identical record across his first six matches at Southampton in 2013.
That could be a positive omen for the visitors, as Pochettino went unbeaten through his next six games with Southampton, earning a total of 12 points (three wins, three draws).
Opta Power RankingsThe Opta Power Rankings are a global team ranking system that assigns an ability score to over 13,000 domestic football teams on a scale between zero and 100, where zero is the worst-ranked team in the world and 100 is the best team in the world.
Ahead of kick-off on Monday, here is the Opta Power Ranking for both sides.
| RANK | TEAM | RATING |
| 37 | Chelsea | 86.4 |
| 38 | Fulham | 86.3 |
Fulham vs Chelsea PredictionMonday's west London derby is a difficult game to call, but the Opta supercomputer makes Chelsea slight favourites, giving them a 39.7% chance of victory.
Fulham are given a 30.4% chance of adding to their rivals' woes, while the 29.9% likelihood of a draw is the highest assigned to any game taking place across MD 7.
In the supercomputer's season predictions, Fulham are backed to finish above Chelsea, with their most likely final position judged to be 11th, with a 16.2% probability. Across 10,000 season simulations, Chelsea finished 13th most often, also doing so in 16.2% of scenarios.
https://theanalyst.com/eu/2023/09/fulham-vs-chelsea-prediction-and-preview/
Mauricio Pochettino already knows key tactical decision he must make for Chelsea against Fulham
Chelsea news as Mauricio Pochettino set for key decisions against Fulham in light of Ben Chilwell injury issue
Chelsea started the season with three left-backs. Somewhat comically they had more players in that position than they did fit first team strikers.
After the first game it became relatively obvious that actually Mauricio Pochettino considered there to be four after Levi Colwill was selected for the role in an asymmetrical 4-2-3-1 shape. That alone divided opinion with debate raging on over whether or not it was a dysfunctional 3-5-2 but it didn't take long before the true shape was apparent.
The choice to move one of the world's best young centre-backs and to park him out wide despite no previous senior experience there has attracted criticism and been blamed for the underwhelming results. The reality is more that Chelsea were still able to create chances as consistently as the top sides in the league and defend their box generally as well as their rivals too.
The results, which largely hinged on poor finishing and lapses in defensive concentration, have come in spite of Colwill at left-back and Ben Chilwell further forward, not because of those choices. To be working as one attacker down and still doing the majority of things well is actually more impressive.
Now, though, there is a more serious re-think needed. Pochettino had already started to move away from the exact system that he started the season with - which was already markedly different from the one used in pre-season - after playing Mykhailo Mudryk at left-wing instead of Chilwell. That all changed on Wednesday night.
Chilwell started his first game of the season at left-back but the defence he was with couldn't have been stranger. Axel Disasi, once more selected in the right centre-back slot, was the only man playing the role he had been used to this term. Beside him was Colwill, starting his first league game at centre-back having also played there against Aston Villa when the Blues went down to 10 men, and right-back was Marc Cucurella.
Shifted across the pitch for his second appearance of the season, the first one coming in the Carabao Cup second round against League Two outfit Wimbledon, he was tasked with stopping Kaoru Mitoma. Against most odds and logic, he did it pretty well.
Mitoma was taken off in the second half and Cucurella, rather frantically but admirably, made nine tackles which was more than double the amount of the next most on the pitch. Now, with a trip to Fulham on the cards, Pochettino has a dilemma.
Chilwell is unavailable, ruling him out of playing left-back or left-wing. Malo Gusto cannot feature either due to suspension so someone will need to come in on the right. Thiago Silva, not in the side against Brighton but likely to take his place in the mix at Craven Cottage, leaves Colwill and Disasi to somehow make up the numbers. One can play right-back, though not comfortably, whilst one can play left-back, though not comfortably.
Cucurella can play either side but is yet to be trusted with any Premier League minutes, and then there's Ian Maatsen. The youngster was one of the three left-backs that started the season but is yet to play there so far. He spent most of pre-season on the right-wing and his four substitute appearances have so far come in attack.
Versatility is perhaps his biggest weakness. Maatsen has shown his qualities at wing-back and the intelligence in his career to date to play quite literally anywhere but up-front. Off-the-right in midweek and tasked with doubling up on Mitoma and Joao Pedro, Maatsen didn't set the world alight but did demonstrate just why he is so effective.
Moving across the field to create space, flying into tackles and starting the move which lead to the slick disallowed second goal for Nicolas Jackson, Maatsen grew into the game having hardly featured in a team that wasn't chasing matches. He now has the break needed to get into the side and is on hand to take it.
"We are a team and when I get my opportunity I am always ready to help my team-mates and that's all I can do," he told the club's website. "They are obviously different games and we have to prepare differently for them and when we play those teams we have to discuss tactics and all that.
"We are a good team. We just need to believe in ourselves and we will perform well by leaving it all on the pitch."
In terms of like-for-like, Maatsen is the closest with Chilwell and could not only take his position at left-back but also on the left-wing. He is able to get forward as well as getting back and, with the potential coverage of Silva, Colwill and Disasi behind him, as well as Moises Caicedo in midfield, would surely have reign to get on the front foot.
It would be easy to stick with Colwill and Mudryk, a pairing that is up to speed in competitive play right now, and it would be a risk to have Mudryk and Maatsen together for the first time. What Chelsea showed at Brighton was perfect evidence of just why it is Maatsen that is the necessary call here though.
Having nearly sold the Dutchman to Burnley on deadline day and being at a key stage when it comes to negotiating a new contract, there is no longer much excuse in not playing him. The options are as thin as they will likely be and for Pochettino it's time to show the bravery in selection that got him to the job in the first place.
https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/mauricio-pochettino-already-knows-key-27818827
I was left frustrated watching Jay Stansfield in Birmingham City's defeat at Norwich
Alex Dicken gives his reaction to Birmingham City's 2-0 defeat to Norwich City at Carrow Road
Jay Stansfield was one of the few Birmingham City players whose performance level didn't drop during the 2-0 defeat to Norwich City.
A below-par Blues were deservedly beaten at Carrow Road, but Stansfield was among the handful who emerged with credit. It was a typically tigerish performance from Blues' new fan favourite, albeit without the goal that we have come to expect from him.
Yet most of us left Carrow Road with a tinge of disappointment. Stansfield started the game out on the left wing, with Koji Miyoshi in support of striker Scott Hogan.
Stansfield's position was probably more out of necessity than preference for John Eustace, who has been dealt a bad hand with injuries in recent weeks. Keshi Anderson is side-lined and Blues' other left winger, Siriki Dembele, clearly wasn't ready to start against the Canaries.
Playing Stansfield out wide reduces his opportunity to get into the positions which he thrives in. If Stansfield isn't to be Blues' centre-forward, he needs to play number 10. Blues need their most potent goal scorer in positions where he can hurt their opponents.
In fairness to Stansfield, he still caused damage to Norwich out wide in that first half. He pulled back two crosses from the right that Oliver Burke and Scott Hogan failed to convert. If only Stansfield had been on the end of those crosses.
Eustace clearly recognised the need to play Stansfield centrally at half-time and tweaked things in the dressing room. Stansfield came out and played alongside Hogan, with Koji Miyoshi to the left and Burke to the right.
Miyoshi fed Stansfield for his big chance but a combination of Shane Duffy and Angus Gunn thwarted the on-loan Fulham man. Had Duffy not got his studs on Stansfield's shot and deflected it towards Gunn's body, Stansfield would have put Blues 1-0 up.
As it happened, Gabriel Sara and Jonathan Rowe would put the game beyond Blues within five minutes of Gunn's save from Stansfield. Blues huffed and puffed, largely through Stansfield's unwillingness to relent the pressing, and created openings in the final 30 minutes, but the game was gone.
It was far from a disaster. Stansfield is a good wide player, but he is even better in the middle - nearer to the goal. That is where Blues need him.
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/left-frustrated-watching-jay-stansfield-27819261
Chelsea predicted lineup vs Fulham: A must-win Premier League game for Pochettino
Chelsea will look to continue their winning momentum when they face Fulham in the Premier League. Here is the Chelsea predicted lineup vs Fulham.
When Chelsea hired Mauricio Pochettino as their manager, they never thought that their season could start in such a bad way. They have won just one game in their last 6 Premier League matches. However, a win against Brighton in the Carabao Cup has given the Blues a lot of confidence going into their next game in the Premier League which is against Fulham at the Craven Cottage. Chelsea will be looking for an important win in this game to kick-start their campaign. So, how will Mauricio Pochettino lineup Chelsea against Fulham? Here is the Chelsea predicted lineup vs Fulham.
Chelsea predicted lineup against Fulham in the Premier League
Let's start the discussion on the Chelsea predicted lineup against Fulham with the formation of Mauricio Pochettino. The Chelsea boss usually plays a traditional 4-2-3-1 formation and this game; he will do that as well. In between the sticks for the Blues, Robert Sanchez will be the one that Pochettino would trust.
Chelsea's defence has been quite fragile this season. However, Pochettino will look up to Malo Gusto to do a job as the right-back. In the centre-back position, the newcomer, Axel Disasi would start along with the senior man, Thiago Silva as his partner. Also, Levi Colwill would have a job to do in the left-back position.
In the midfield, Pochettino will be trusting Conor Gallagher along with the summer signing Moises Caicedo for whom Chelsea paid £115m. For the number 10 role, the Chelsea boss would rely on Enzo Fernandez for whom the club paid £107 to Benfica.
Chelsea are struggling to score goals and thus, the pressure on their forwards is piling up. Mykhailo Mudryk will have a key role to play at the left wing and the experienced Raheem Sterling will take up the mantle at the right wing. Nicolas Jackson will lead the line for the Blues against Fulham.
Chelsea predicted lineup vs Fulham: Sanchez, Gusto, Disasi, Silva, Colwill; Gallagher, Caicedo, Fernandez; Mudryk, Jackson, Sterling.
https://thetopflight.com/2023/09/30/chelsea-predicted-lineup-vs-fulham/
Fulham U18s smash Saints for four
Fulham's under 18s surged to a superb win on the south coast this lunchtime – putting four past Southampton to move three points clear at the top of the table.
Ali Melloul's men made a sensational start at Staplewood – racing into a 3-0 lead inside the first ten minutes. Tom Olyott opened the scoring with superb strike into the far corner after racing onto a loose ball. It was two five minutes later when the impressive Josh King lashed a low drive into the net after being teed up by Lemar Gordon. The visitors sewed up the points three minutes later when the in-form Callum Osmand turned home a terrific cross from Brad de Jesus.
Fulham eased off a little having assumed complete control of the contest but were able to keep Saints at bay for much of the first half. The home side's threat largely came from centre forward Nick Oyekunle, who fired over having burst into the penalty area, but the Cottagers finished on top and should have made it four before half-time after Dylan Moody saved a shot from Olyott and the winger wastefully sent the rebound over the bar.
Aaron Loupalo-Bi did extend Fulham's advantage when he poached his second league goal of an injury-hit campaign from close range five minutes after the interval. Melloul then rung the changes but would have been disappointed that his side conceded a consolation three minutes from time. The lively Oyekunle finished clinically after collecting a cross from Alejandro Rodriguez – although the late Saints strike shouldn't detract from another outstanding performance from Fulham captain Ollie Gofford, a midfielder by trade who once again did not look out of place at centre back.
Fulham, who have now won five games in a row in all competitions, finished on the front foot again with Murphy, who prevented the rampant visitors from reaching double figures, making a fine save to thwart substitute Ma'kel Bogle-Campbell from adding a fifth in stoppage time. Melloul's side will look to continue their fantastic form when West Bromwich Albion visit Motspur Park next Saturday morning.
SOUTHAMPTON UNDER 18s (4-3-3): Murphy; Okonola-Matthews (Prescott 45), Sheaf, Moore, Dobson-Ventura (Andrews 53); Miles (Daley 71), Williams, Sesay; Rodriguez, Robinson, Oyekunle. Subs (not used): Upstell, Pitts.
BOOKED: Rodriguez.
GOAL: Oyekunle (87).
FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Kaiser; de Jesus, Nsasi, Tabares, Gofford; Nwoko, King (Ridgeon 83); Olyott (Ali Wahid 70), Gordon, Osmand (Bogle-Campbell 83); Loupalo-Bi. Subs (not used): Varney, Park.
BOOKED: Nwoko.
GOALS: Olyott (2), King (7), Osmand (10), Loupalo-Bi (50).
REFEREE: Ollie Kaya.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/fulham-u18s-smash-saints-for-four/
Palmer To Play From Start, Sterling Leads The Line | 4-2-3-1 Chelsea Predicted XI Vs FulhamChelsea will take on Fulham as they travel to Craven Cottage on Monday hoping to grab maximum points from this away encounter. The Blues will come into the match on the back of a 1-0 victory over Brighton in the third of their EFL Cup fixture, so we can expect them to be confident going into this Premier League contest.
Mauricio Pochettino will opt for a 4-3-3 formation and could make a few changes to the first XI for this game. Cole Palmer is poised to be handed in first start in the Premier League this season after starting in the EFL cup fixture against Brighton as well.
4-2-3-1 Chelsea Predicted XI Vs FulhamDefence
Robert Sanchez will continue to function as a goal keeper for the Blues after keeping a clean sheet in his last outing. Thiago Silva will form the customary centre-half partnership alongside Levi Colwill as they try to keep the Villans at bay during the game.
Marc Cucurella will fill in as the left-back while Axel Disasi looks to catch the eye as the right-back. Both of them will be given the freedom to make some overlapping runs out on the flanks.
Midfield
Moises Caicedo and Conor Gallagher will play as the holding midfielders as they try to dictate the tempo of the game at the centre of the park.
Enzo Fernandez will play right ahead of them as an advanced attacking midfielder as he tries to make a difference for the Blues in the final third. Cole Palmer will fill in as the right winger while Mykhailo Mudryk tries to produce an influential display on the opposite flank.
Lesley Ugochukwu will be available for selection on the bench and might come on to impress in the second half if required.
Attack
Raheem Sterling will spearhead Chelsea's attack on his own up top. He would be eager to find the back of the net and put his name on the scoresheet in this away encounter.
Nicolas Jackson will have to take a spot on the bench and might come on in the latter stages of the match if Chelsea are in need of a goal by then.
(https://the4thofficial.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/lineup-12.png)
https://the4thofficial.net/2023/09/palmer-to-play-from-start-sterling-leads-the-line-4-2-3-1-chelsea-predicted-xi-vs-fulham/
"We will give our maximum'"- Rival boss raring to face Chelsea in the Premier League
Marco Silva believes the Premier League clash between Fulham and Chelsea will be special
Fulham boss Marco Silva has admitted that facing Chelsea will be special as both London clubs will prepare to take on each other in a derby game on Monday night in the Premier League.
The Blues will go into this game on the back of a 1-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup following an otherwise dismal run of games. While the Cottagers have had their moments, their lack of consistency remains an issue.
Only one of the West Londoners' six Premier League games has ended in victory this season, and anything less than a win might increase the danger to manager Mauricio Pochettino's future at the club. While it would be far-fetched to say that the Argentine will be on thin ice, it certainly does little to aid his cause.
The same could be said for Fulham, who have two wins in six Premier League outings. Both sides will be desperate for a win, and we can expect a toe-to-toe game. With more than London pride for grabs, it should prove to be an exciting team.
Fulham head coach Silva has warned the Blues that his side will give maximum when they take on their London rivals, (h/t Sky Sports) and further told the media:
"Chelsea derby is special for Fulham fans. We will give our maximum''
Undoubtedly, this will be a big game and a crucial encounter for us because we need to keep up our winning streak after Brighton's win. London derbies are always special because if you win them to get the status of most dominant club in London. Anything less than a victory would be upsetting for us since we feel like we are beginning to develop as a team under the Argentine boss, who is bound to get the best performance out of us.
We can benefit from Fulham's apparent inability to win league matches. We have played Fulham 103 times in all competitions, winning 54, drawing 30, and losing 19. So, we're hoping to extend our winning streak and exceed our current 50-game winning streak against them. While the Cottagers are not our biggest rivals from the city, it is still a London derby.
https://www.astamfordbridgetoofar.com/2023/10/marco-silva-believes-the-premier-league-clash-between-fulham-and-chelsea-will-be-special/
Chelsea team news: Mauricio Pochettino without 10 stars at Fulham as injury crisis deepens
Chelsea will be without several key players against Fulham tomorrow night.
Mauricio Pochettino will be forced to reshuffle Chelsea's struggling attack when they go up against local rivals Fulham tomorrow. A total of 10 first-team absences will make life difficult for the Blues, who are chasing only their second victory of the new Premier League campaign.
Express Sport takes a look at how Chelsea could line up at Craven Cottage...
Goalkeeper - Sanchez
Robert Sanchez will almost certainly be given the nod in goal against Fulham, with the Spaniard now Chelsea's established first-choice goalkeeper. He earned a welcome clean sheet against former club Brighton in midweek but struggled to impress with the ball at his feet, with the Seagulls pressing him relentlessly all game.
Sanchez will be hoping to follow up with another shutout against Fulham, who have scored just five goals in six Premier League matches so far this season
Defence - Disasi, Silva, Colwill, Cucurella
Chelsea will be without a number of key players at the back, with Ben Chilwell having joined Reece James, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana on the treatment table. Chilwell's absence could see Marc Cucurella feature at left-back for the Blues, while Axel Disasi could be trusted to start on the opposite flank with Malo Gusto suspended.
Meanwhile, a central pairing of Thiago Silva and Levi Colwill will likely be the preferred option for Pochettino at Craven Cottage tomorrow.
Midfield - Caicedo, Gallagher, Fernandez
Carney Chukwuemeka has returned to full training to ease Chelsea's injury worries in the middle of the park, although he could be forced to settle for a place on the bench against Fulham. Moises Caicedo will be poised to start just ahead of the back four, with Conor Gallagher and Enzo Fernandes shouldering the majority of the Blues' creative duties.
Romeo Lavia will, of course, remain sidelined as he continues to recover from an ankle injury sustained in training during the international break earlier this month.
Attack - Mudryk, Sterling, Palmer
Nicolas Jackson will be unavailable for Chelsea tomorrow as he serves a one-match ban after picking up his fifth yellow card against Aston Villa last weekend. Cole Palmer could be drafted in to replace him in attack, with Armando Broja unlikely to be fit enough to start.
Mykaylo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling should be tasked with providing support from the flanks as Chelsea go in search of their first Premier League goal in over a month.
Possible Chelsea XI vs Fulham (4-2-3-1) - Sanchez; Disasi, Silva, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Gallagher; Mudryk, Fernandez, Sterling; Palmer.
https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1818217/Chelsea-team-news-Mauricio-Pochettino-Fulham-Premier-League-latest
Fulham boss lauds bargain buy as Chelsea theory shot down with £250million admission
FULHAM vs CHELSEA: Marco Silva is looking to inflict more misery on Mauricio Pochettino's injury-ravaged Blues in Monday night's west London derby at Craven Cottage
Marco Silva says it's impossible to compare Fulham's squad with big-spending Chelsea but believes that in Bernd Leno, the Cottagers have one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.
The German international has kept back-to-back clean sheets in the top-flight and now Silva is hoping to make it three on the bounce against Mauricio Pochettino's stuttering side.
Silva said ahead of Monday's west London derby: "I keep saying it but in my opinion Leno's one of the best three goalkeepers in the division. He proved that last season and he's going to keep proving it this season.
"His quality speaks for itself, we feel he's at a top, top level."
Leno cost Fulham an initial £3million in the summer of 2022 but the Cottagers also paid Arsenal an additional £2m in bonuses after securing Premier League safety last term. When asked where Leno ranks among Fulham's best signings since Silva's appointment in the summer of 2021, the Portuguese tactician showered his No.1 in further praise.
"He is one of the best, I'm 100 per cent sure," Silva added. "I keep repeating that he deserves much more credit for what he's been doing and our fans should really enjoy having a goalkeeper like him in our shirt.
"He's so, so easy to work with. Every time he comes through that gate it's with ambition, desire and he's always in a good mood to work."
Leno has proven to be a rare bargain during an era when transfer valuations have exploded to jaw-dropping heights. Chelsea's spending has now surpassed the £1billion mark under Todd Boehly and for that very reason, Silva strongly refuted suggestions his side could use their impressive squad depth to their advantage against their injury-ravaged opponents.
He said passionately: "I'll tell you something - Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo have cost Chelsea nearly £250million. If I start to say more players, I will say probably £1billion in the past 12 months or so.
"It's impossible to compare our squads but in terms of the game - it's going to be 11 players versus 11 players.
"I'm 100 per cent sure we are going to give our all but you can't find an advantage for us. The only one you can say for me is that we are playing at home and that's a good one because we love to play at home."
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/marco-silva-lauds-bargain-buy-31067037
Fulham: Cottagers keen on signing Premier League midfielder
This could significantly strengthen Marco Silva's side.
Fulham are interested in making a move for an established Premier League player currently at one of the biggest clubs in the country, according to a new update.
Will Fulham make signings in January?
The Cottagers impressed in the league last season after being promoted from the Championship, and they ended up finishing 10th in the table, which few predicted at the beginning of the campaign.
Marco Silva continues to do an excellent job as manager, and his team are sitting comfortably in midtable after six matches played in 2023/24 to date, winning, drawing and losing twice apiece. Next up is Monday's visit of Chelsea in a fiery London derby, as Fulham look to heap further misery on the Blues.
While Silva has assembled an impressive squad at Craven Cottage, there is also a clear need to make new signings in the January transfer window, or next summer at the very least, in order to keep progressing. A fresh update suggests that one individual is being looked at closely as an option.
Which Premier League player could Fulham sign?
According to Sky Sports News, Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay is high on Fulham's list of priority signings at the moment:
"Sky Sports News has been told Bayern will continue to monitor Palhinha's performances for Fulham throughout the Autumn and are expected to bid again once the window reopens on January 1. With more than three months remaining before then, Fulham have more time to line up his replacement and Manchester United's Scott McTominay is understood to remain high on their list.
"McTominay was thought to be reluctant to leave Old Trafford right up until the final moments of the summer window, when Sofyan Amrabat arrived on an initial loan from Fiorentina, but he may be more open to switching clubs in 2024.
"Tottenham's Pierre Emile-Hojbjerg was another top target for Fulham at the end of the window but another player who was not keen to move to Craven Cottage in the summer, believing there are bigger clubs out there for him if he is to leave Spurs in the not too distant future."
McTominay could be exactly what Fulham are looking for in January, should Joao Palhinha complete a move to Bayern Munich, possessing similar attributes to the current Cottagers favourite.
The Scot has found regular football increasingly hard to come by under Erik ten Hag at United, with the likes of Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes preferred to him in the middle of the park, and he could jump at the opportunity to be a regular elsewhere and kick on at a key point in his career.
McTominay is out of contract at Old Trafford in the summer of 2025, meaning United could be keen to cash in on him before his value starts diminishing, and his box-to-box energy would add a lot to the team.
While arguably known for his industry and all-round work ethic more than anything, the 26-year-old has also found his goalscoring boots in a Scotland shirt recently, scoring twice in a famous 2-0 win over Spain this year, and being hailed as "top class" by compatriot Ally McCoist.
https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-news-scott-mctominay-premier-league-transfer-news/
Marco Silva believes Willian is nearing his best again after injury issues and a near summer move to Saudi Arabia
Chelsea have been warned about the threat of their former winger Willian
Fulham boss Marco Silva believes his experienced star is nearing his best again
Silva called Willian 'sharp' and insists he can bring Fulham 'extra quality'
Chelsea have been warned about the threat of their former winger Willian when they make the short trip to local rivals Fulham on Monday night.
The Brazil international, now 35, is showing glimpses of the form that made him a fan's favourite in seven years at Stamford Bridge, where he won two Premier League titles and the Europa League.
It is three years since he left for Arsenal and then Corinthians in his native Brazil. He is enjoying another unexpected chapter in the English top flight.
And Fulham manager Marco Silva believes his experienced star is nearing his best again after injury issues and a near summer move to Saudi Arabia.
'I am finally starting to see the same Willian again in the training sessions,' Silva said. 'So sharp, so good with that extra quality he can give us.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/10/01/07/76030853-12580677-image-a-31_1696142147190.jpg)
Chelsea have been warned about the threat of their former winger Willian (above)
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/10/01/07/76030851-12580677-image-a-32_1696142154723.jpg)
It is three years since he left for Arsenal and then Corinthians in his native Brazil. He is enjoying another unexpected chapter in the English top flight
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/10/01/07/76030863-12580677-image-a-33_1696142235557.jpg)
Fulham manager Marco Silva (above) believes his experienced star is nearing his best again after injury issues and a near summer move to Saudi Arabia
'Willian is a top player, he is a class player. He is a player that the way he creates moments for us and the way he can give that extra quality for us is so so important.
'It is up to me and him as well to keep himself fit, playing with a smile on his face like he is playing right now. This is one of the reasons I started with him last Wednesday.'
Willian has started the season slowly after a disruptive pre-season, playing just over 200 minutes across four games in July. In addition, injury issues and links to a move to Saudi Arabia may have been an unwelcome distraction ahead of a new season..
His performances have improved for Fulham in the last two games against Crystal Palace and Norwich, and his manager is still a huge fan.
Silva added: 'I played him last Wednesday against Norwich, because I really think he needs more games and needs more time. I know him really well. It was not the best pre-season for him.
'I know that last season he did not have a pre-season too because he arrived in the last days of August. This pre-season was not a normal one (for him) during the Summer Series, he had some problems in his Achilles and he was not at his best.
'When we have a player like him with the quality, and when you have him not at 100 per cent, he probably played the first games at 70 or 80 per cent of his best [potential]. It was a tough one against Everton when I took him off at half-time. The problem in the Achilles was there.'
Last season Willian scored five goals and made six assists in 27 league appearances for Fulham as Silva's side earned a top ten finish.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/10/01/07/76030859-12580677-image-a-34_1696142267249.jpg)
Last season Willian scored five goals and made six assists in 27 league appearances for Fulham
Without goal scorer Alexander Mitrovic this season, Willian will be relied upon to contribute similar numbers to keep them in the top half of the table.
Silva has no doubts about the winger's creativity in the final third, and had high praise for his performances off the ball too.
'Willian is not just a player on the ball for us. The two wingers, Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Willian, against Palace from a tactical point of view they were brilliant.
'It is a position where I demand really strong performances from our two wingers. It is not an easy position to play under me. To see Willian at his age to do what he did again against Palace, what he did off the ball in that game was brilliant.'
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12580677/Marco-Silva-believes-Willian-nearing-best-injury-issues-near-summer-Saudi-Arabia.html
Willian is getting back to his best, says Silva
Marco Silva believes Fulham's Willian is getting back to his best after some scintillating displays in training in the run-up to tomorrow night's SW6 derby.
The Brazilian winger, who opened the scoring against his old club in Fulham's first win over Chelsea for seventeen years last season, has struggled for form and fitness since struggling with an achilles injury at the start of the season. The 34 year-old had also clearly been affected by interest from Saudi Arabian sides that saw his contract extension at Craven Cottage – after last term's sensational campaign – delayed.
Silva told Jack Kelly that he is seeing a sharper Willian in training and is confident that the Brazilian veteran will soon hit the heights that made him one of the signings of the season last year after arriving on a free transfer.
"I am finally starting to see the same Willian again in the training sessions. So sharp, so good with that extra quality he can give us. Willian is a top player, he is a class player. He is a player that the way he creates moments for us and the way he can give that extra quality for us is so so important.
It is up to me and him as well to keep himself fit, playing with a smile on his face like he is playing right now. This is one of the reasons I started with him last Wednesday, because I really think he needs more games and needs more time. I know him really well. It was not the best pre-season for him.
I know that last season he did not have a pre-season too because he arrived in the last days of August. This pre-season was not a normal one. During the Summer Series, he had some problems in his Achilles and he was not at his best. When we have a player like him with the quality, and when you have him not at 100 per cent, he probably played the first games at 70 or 80 per cent of his best. It was a tough one against Everton when I took him off at half-time. The problem in the Achilles was there."
Silva highlighted just how important Willian remains to his tactical plans – because of his work ethic and defensive contributions.
"Willian is not just a player on the ball for us. The two wingers, Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Willian, against Palace from a tactical point of view they were brilliant. It is a position where I demand really strong performances from our two wingers. It is not an easy position to play under me. To see Willian at his age to do what he did again against Palace, what he did off the ball in that game was brilliant."
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/willian-is-getting-back-to-his-best-says-silva/
What Fulham need to do to come out on top against ChelseaJack Stroudley assesses our second West London derby of the season.
It's the big one on Monday night as Fulham welcome Chelsea to Craven Cottage under the lights. While some fans have been uninspired by Fulham this season, I think we've made a good start. Eight points from the opening six games, which included trips to Arsenal & Manchester City as well as three clean sheets, is nothing to be sniffed at. We've started well and built a solid gap away from those relegation places.
We welcome a Chelsea side on Monday who're really struggling at the moment and with a large injury list and a few suspensions, they will come to Craven Cottage with a weakened side. Last season was our first win over the Blues since 2006, but can Fulham emulate that kind of performance again to earn bragging rights for another few months?
The opposition
Chelsea would've come into this season with confidence after making many summer signings and bringing in experienced manager Mauricio Pochettino but it's not worked out for them with just one Premier League win this season, they currently sit in 14th place. While funny, I don't think their league position truly reflects the performances put in. Chelsea have controlled possession for the majority of games played this season and have created a fair few chances but have been unlucky in the final third.
They're also in a bit of an injury crisis at the moment with nine first team players out injured, Carney Chukwumenka is the most likely to return on Monday night having returned to training this week. Ben Chilwell is a new injury concern and Chelsea will also be without Nicolas Jackson and Malo Gusto who are both suspended for this game.
How do we prepare?
This is a good opportunity for Fulham to continue to extend their gap on the bottom three, here's how I'd line-up.
(https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SOCIAL-Starting-XI-Graphic-5.png?ezimgfmt=ng:webp/ngcb1)
I'd make three changes to the side that drew 0-0 with Crystal Palace last weekend with Kenny Tete, Harry Wilson and Carlos Vinicius coming in for Timothy Castagne, Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Raul Jimenez.
The first change is dependant upon fitness. I think that if Tete is fully fit he has to start; he was excellent against Chelsea last season and for me is the best full-back at the club. Castagne has been good in the last few games but if available, the Dutchman has to start.
Fulham have struggled in-front of goal as of late with just one goal in the last two league games, Wilson and Vinicius would come in for me with the hopes of changing our fortunes. The Welsh winger's technical ability is something that Fulham could exploit and given that Vinicius has scored two goals in his last three appearances, he has to start over Jimemez.
Alex Iwobi is somebody who is knocking on the door for a Premier League start but for now I'd stick with Andreas Pereira given the Brazilian's ability from dead-ball situations. Finally, Sasa Lukic will be involved in the squad on Monday, but I think that Harrison Reed deserves to keep his place as his pressing and intensity should get at a dysfunctional Chelsea midfield.
The final verdict
I don't expect the same game from Chelsea that we saw last January at the Cottage. While their league position doesn't suggest it, they're not as bad as everyone has made out and will cause us issues. Our lack of firepower is a cause for concern but Marco Silva will know the importance of the game to Fulham fans and will hopefully force players to rise to the occasion. I'm going with a draw.
https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-10-01-what-fulham-need-to-do-to-come-out-on-top-against-chelsea/
Tottenham eye cut-price move to sign Tosin Adarabioyo in January
Tottenham Hotspur are eyeing a move for Fulham star Tosin Adarabioyo as Ange Postecoglou looks to reinforce his defensive options this winter, according to Football Insider.
The report claims that the North Londoners wanted to add another defender to their squad during the closing stages of the summer window but the right opportunity did not arise.
Spurs brought in two centre-backs in the summer following the arrival of Micky van de Ven and Ashley Phillips, however, the latter is seen as a long-term project and not considered a first-team player at the moment.
Van de Ven has made an impressive start to life at Tottenham with the 22-year-old forming a strong partnership with Argentina international and World Cup winner Cristian Romero.
Phillips is yet to feature for Tottenham's first team this season but has already made two appearances for the Tottenham U21 side hence Postecoglou is keen on signing a more experienced centre-back who can compete for a first-team spot.
Tottenham sold Davinson Sanchez to Galatasaray in the summer while long-serving defender Eric Dier could be allowed to leave the club in January and this could create space for the signing of another centre-back.
Tosin Adarabioyo eyed
According to Football Insider, Tottenham could renew their interest in signing Tosin Adarabioyo in January after being strongly linked with the Fulham star in the summer.
The 6ft 4in ace will have just six months left on his contract this winter and has shown no sign of penning an extension so Fulham may have no option but to cash in and sell on the cheap in January.
The 25-year-old has made just one appearance for Marco Silva's side this campaign which came in their 2-2 draw at Arsenal. He has since been out of the squad due to injury and bad blood with his manager after trying to force a move away from the club.
Adarabioyo was made to train away from the first team and was frozen out of the Fulham squad. He was ever-present for the London-based side last season as he made 29 appearances and scored once across all competitions.
Adarabioyo is valued at £14m by Transfermarkt but Tottenham would hope to snap him up in a cut-price deal. He would be a good addition to Postecoglou's squad if they could wrap up a deal in January.
https://football-talk.co.uk/193250/tottenham-eye-cut-price-move-to-sign-tosin-adarabioyo-in-january/
Chelsea expected to unleash 22-year-old in Jackson's absence against Fulham on Monday
Chelsea have made a choice on who they will be selecting up top to replace the suspended Nicolas Jackson this Monday, according to reports.
Jackson was hit with a suspension after swiftly accumulating five yellow cards in the Premier League and will miss Monday night's clash against local neighbours Fulham.
Chelsea do have other striker options with new man Deivid Washington who has yet to make a senior appearance for the club, and Armando Broja who is slowly being bedded back in after a long-term injury.
None of those options are ideal for the above reasons. Mauricio Pochettino could also chose to put Raheem Sterling or Cole Palmer up there playing as a false 9, with both players having played in that position before.
However, according to The Daily Mirror, Chelsea are expected to unleash the returning Armando Broja on Monday at Fulham.
It would be a risky move to start him from the off in my opinion.
https://www.chelsea-news.co/2023/10/chelsea-expected-to-unleash-22-year-old-in-jacksons-absence-against-fulham-on-monday/
