Saturday Fulham Stuff - 30/09/23...

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Pereira aims for another 'important' win
Andreas Pereira says he fully understands the passion and importance that lie behind the SW6 derby after helping Fulham beat Chelsea last season.

The Brazilian midfielder created the winner for Carlos Vincius as the Whites beat their local rivals for the first time in seventeen years back in January and Pereira told FFCTV this afternoon that would play the game this afternoon if he could.

The former Manchester United number ten is pleased with Fulham's start to the new season under Marco Silva:

"We've had a good start of the season. We know what we can improve, we still have a lot of room to improve but we stick to it and we want to get as many points as we can and I think we are in a fair position."

He knows Chelsea will provide a serious test on Monday night regardless of their struggles so far this season.

"They still are figuring out the best way to play. They have not played a lot of games together, so it is normal what is happening. We know they have a lot of quality, we know we have to respect them and everyoine thinks they are in a bad situation: but it is a dangerous place for us and it is going to be a tough game."

Pereira has plenty of happy memories from his first taste of facing Chelsea as a Fulham player back in January.

"It was a special game, my first game against Chelsea in the Cottage. I was very happy to assist the [winning] goal and it was a good feeling. The moment that I touched the ball and I had a look earlier. When the ball came out of boot and I knew it was going on his head, it was a great feeling to know he was going to score. I said to him the day before, 'I have a feeling you are going to score – just be ready' – and it happened!'

Since I came here, I tried to understand the culture more and more. From that night and from that win, you understand what kind of game it is and how passionate everyone is about it. Even coming from another team and another country, I know how important it is and for me it is exactly the same now. It is what I came to Fulham for, to play these games, it is what you live for. I don't even have to get warmed up – I'm ready now."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2001/08/legwinski-in-line-for-fulham-debut/

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Mauricio Pochettino to consider Jackson swap and Palmer role among Chelsea changes for Fulham
Chelsea take on Fulham at Craven Cottage on their return to Premier League action and Mauricio Pochettino will be required to make some changes to his starting lineup

Chelsea came away with a victory in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday evening, and must now find some momentum in the Premier League having only won once in the competition all season. The Blues face another team they did not manage to overcome last term in the shape of Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Mauricio Pochettino rang the changes against Brighton with Thiago Silva rested from the squad entirely and the likes of Conor Gallagher and Enzo Fernandez made their contributions from the bench. Of course Malo Gusto was not present as he served the first match of his ban having been sent off against Aston Villa just days before.

Changes will be expected once again as Chelsea take on their local rivals with Nicolas Jackson's suspension having picked up five yellow cards ready to kick in and Ben Chilwell potentially out of the clash due to injury. Chelsea's vice-captain left the field late in thhe win over the Seagulls on Wednesday night.

football.london takes a look at some of the changes that could be made.

Ben Chilwell replacement
Chelsea had three left backs on show against Brighton, and Pochettino may need to shuffle the deck against the Cottagers. Marc Cucurella put in a good performance against his former side on the right side of defence, and was ably supported in his efforts by Ian Maatsen on the same flank.

There's a chance that neither will take their more natural role however. Cucurella has yet to play a Premier League minute this season, while Maatsen has always been used in a more advanced position by the Blues' head coach. Levi Colwill however, has been deployed in the position regularly this season.

Pochettino explained his decision ahead of the Carabao Cup fixture: "I am so happy with Levi and the way he is playing. He is showing character and is providing the team with a very good balance. I think Chilly is going to have the possibility to play, I think tomorrow he is going to play. I think always, the expectation and what we expect from the player, we were using him maybe not in his best position because he was a winger. That is why after we start to play with a winger like Mischa, when he recovered, our thought was to keep Levi in the position."

With Colwill likely shifted to the left side once again, it would see Thiago Silva return to the fold in the heart of defence alongside Axel Disasi.

Enzo Fernandez and Conor Gallagher debate
Chelsea's midfield duo came off the bench to help secure the Blues' win on Wednesday and now face competition to get back into the side. Moises Caicedo looked better in a more free role, but Lesley Ugochukwu's struggle could see the Ecuador international move to a deeper role and be partnered by either Fernandez or Gallagher.

Whether both come in is a more difficult prospect. Cole Palmer put in an impressive display and provided a clever assist for Nicolas Jackson's goal. Given his contributions from the bench in recent matches, it would be no surprise to see him rewarded by retaining his place, even if Pochettino is cautious over allowing him to settle into the side.

Cole is a very talented player," said thhe 51-year-old. "He was key in this victory tonight. Still young, still needs to settle in the club, not only the team, in the club and the city. I think we saw today how good he is."

Nicolas Jackson suspension
With Armando Broja unlikely to be ready for more than another substitute appearance, Raheem Sterling may be thhe favourite to take Chelsea's forward rule in a simple swap from midweek. Given the former Man City star's prevalence on the wing that will allow someone opportunity to impress the Cottagers.

There is the possibilty that Gallagher and Fernandez could start with Palmer moved onto the wing, but Maatsen's defensive application on Wednesday night could prove persuasive if Cucurella is once again at left back. Mykhailo Mudryk is steadily building some momentum and will take confidence from the ovation he received when substituted against Brighton, with his shorter evening leaving him set to start once again.

Noni Madueke seems unlikely to be a candidate for the starting XI, after Pochettino revealed the winger was left out the squad as a matter of choice, rather than due to injury.



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/jackson-palmer-chelsea-fulham-pochettino-27807854

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Mauricio Pochettino hands £60m man first PL start of the season: Chelsea predicted XI vs Fulham
Mauricio Pochettino will have been the most relieved man in West London when the Blues finally returned to winning ways earlier this week.

Their 1-0 victory in the EFL Cup against Brighton will hopefully be the catalyst to some better form in the league, where they have underwhelmed so far.

Up next is the West London derby against Fulham on Monday night, with them needing to bounce back from a loss to Aston Villa.

Here's our predicted XI for that game...

GK and Defence
Robert Sanchez has been an ever-present this season, and despite some nervy moments against his former side, will continue in goal.

The right-back role was played so well by Marc Cucurella on Wednesday, and due to a lack of options right now he will continue there for his first league start of the season.

Axel Disasi will also continue his run of starting every game so far this season after his summer switch from France.

He will be joined again by Thiago Silva, who was rested for the EFL Cup tie.

With Ben Chilwell's late injury, Levi Colwill will move back to left-back despite looking far more natural in the middle.

Midfield
Moises Caicedo looked in some pain at the end of the game in the week, however will continue in the middle of the park.

He will be joined by Enzo Fernandez, who got a rare rest for the majority of the Brighton match.

In front of those two, Cole Palmer will also start his first league game after an impressive display at Stamford Bridge this week.

Attack
Mykhailo Mudryk has quietly been churning out some very promising displays, and will start his fourth consecutive game on Monday.

Raheem Sterling will feature on the other wing, looking to find his goalscoring boots again.

With no Nicolas Jackson, it will be a huge chance for Armando Broja to show what he can do on his return from injury.



https://www.thechelseachronicle.com/news/mauricio-pochettino-hands-60m-man-first-pl-start-of-the-season-chelsea-predicted-xi-vs-fulham/

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Opinion: Swansea City injury blow should lead them to ex-Fulham free agent
With Joe Allen one of a number of players on the sidelines for the Swans for a long time, Michael Duff should now look into signing Josh Onomah

    Swansea City's recent victory was overshadowed by long-term injuries to three key players, including summer signing Josh Ginnelly who is out for the season.
    The team's lack of depth in midfield is now a concern, with experienced midfielder Joe Allen also sidelined, making the signing of Josh Onomah a potential solution.
    Onomah's ability to break through the middle of the park and create opportunities could make him a valuable asset for Swansea City, and they should consider making a move for him.

Just when Swansea City thought they had injected some positivity into their dismal start to the 2023-24 Championship season, the South Wales outfit have been dealt with a triple whammy hammer-blow in the form of long-term injuries.

Their 3-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday was somewhat of a sign that slowly but surely, Michael Duff's side could be turning the corner, albeit they turned over a relatively poor side who are still looking for their first win of the league campaign.

What has happened in the aftermath though has somewhat brought the mood down, with three of Duff's first-team squad coming down with long-term injuries.

Summer signing Josh Ginnelly has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after rupturing his achilles, having played just the eight times since his move from Scottish outfit Hearts, whilst centre-back Nathan Wood needs ankle surgery and could be out for months.

Also joining the duo on the treatment table is experienced midfielder Joe Allen, who suffered a groin injury recently and has been under the knife, leaving him out of action for around three months, just like Wood.

Should Duff continue with the 4-2-3-1 system he's moved to in the last few games, then Swansea are going to need to at least consider looking into the current pool of free agents that are on the market, with just Charlie Patino, Matt Grimes and Jay Fulton being realistic options to pick.

Liam Walsh may get a chance after a lacklustre and injury-hit two years with the club, but there are potential options that are still without a club - one of those being Josh Onomah.

Who is Josh Onomah?
A former prodigy having come through the Tottenham academy, Onomah was capped at six different youth levels for England, playing 56 times for the Three Lions between 2012 and 2018.

Onomah didn't make it at Spurs in the end though despite playing 32 times, with loan moves to Aston Villa and Sheffield Wednesday being followed by a permanent switch to Fulham in 2019.

With the Cottagers, Onomah won two promotions from the Championship, playing 54 times for the London club in the second tier of English football and he also racked up 13 Premier League outings for them too.

However, fitness and injuries were an issue for Onomah during his time at Craven Cottage, and he was allowed to explore a new challenge in January 2023, signing for Preston North End for the remainder of the campaign.

With the Lilywhites, Onomah appeared in 13 matches and it looked as though he was going to sign an extension over the summer, but it never materialised and neither did a contract at Stoke City, whom he played multiple pre-season friendlies for.

Why should Swansea City sign Josh Onomah?
The main reason, quite obviously, that Swansea should consider swooping for Onomah is the fact that with Allen sidelined, they lack real quality depth in the middle of the park.

As starting partnerships go, Charlie Patino and Matt Grimes is a quality duo, but with just Jay Fulton really as backup, more is needed - especially with the cut-throat nature of the Championship.

And if Duff wants to revert back to a midfield three, he can add the likes of Jamie Paterson and Oli Cooper to his options - but none of the players he has have got the tendencies of Onomah, who can powerfully break through the middle of the park and make things happen.

At some point, a Championship club is going to make Onomah an offer when they're in need of a midfielder, and Swansea should perhaps try to jump to the front of the queue in a bid to make a deal happen - the 26-year-old should be affordable enough and he could be a real asset for the remainder of the campaign.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/gareth-ainsworth-reveals-biggest-qpr-headache-ahead-of-coventry-city-clash/

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EFL Cup: Ipswich Town star makes "confident" claim on Fulham draw
Woolfenden spoke about side's EFL Cup draw against the Premier League club.

    Ipswich have been performing exceptionally well in both the Championship and the EFL Cup, winning seven out of their first eight league games.
    Their journey to the fourth round of the EFL Cup included victories against Bristol Rovers, Reading, and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
    Luke Woolfenden is confident ahead of their upcoming match against Fulham and believes they can give the Premier League team a tough test.

Ipswich Town centre-back Luke Woolfenden believes his side can be confident going into their EFL Cup fourth round fixture against Fulham, speaking to the Tractor Boys' media team.

Kieran McKenna's side have been in excellent form in both the Championship and the EFL Cup, which is remarkable considering they have only just been promoted from League One.

They were in good shape going into this season with a strong squad, but no one would have expected them to win seven of their opening eight league games.

Managing to beat the likes of Sunderland and Southampton away from home, the Tractor Boys can be extremely proud of themselves.

But they have plenty of work to do if they want to retain their place in the promotion mix, with tomorrow's clash at the John Smith's Stadium against Huddersfield Town unlikely to be an easy game for them.

How have they managed to get through to the fourth round of the EFL Cup?
They had a favourable draw in the first round, with the Suffolk side taking on Bristol Rovers at home.

Managing to beat Joey Barton's side 2-0, they then headed to Reading.

Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan's goal for the Royals took the game to extra time - but the hosts' poor spot-kicks at the Select Car Leasing Stadium allowed McKenna's side to advanced to the third round to face Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers.

They were at Portman Road - but Ipswich were clearly the underdogs going into this game.

However, they were able to come out on top, coming back from 2-0 down to secure a 3-2 win with Omari Hutchinson, Freddie Ladapo and Jack Taylor's goals allowing them to book their place in the fourth round.

Ipswich will face Fulham next month for a place in the next round.

What did Luke Woolfenden say about the Fulham cup draw?
This game against the Cottagers is at home and with the Tractor Boys already overcoming a top-flight team in this competition this term, Woolfenden believes they can be confident going into this game.

He said: "It's a good draw. It's another real test but another game we can be confident going into.

"Everyone saw how the lads did against Wolves and this is another chance against Premier League players."

Can Ipswich Town upset the odds again and beat Fulham?
You would have been forgiven for thinking the Cottagers would come back down to the second tier shortly after being promoted.

However, they have established themselves as a solid top-flight outfit and seem to be doing reasonably well at the moment despite not having Aleksandar Mitrovic at their disposal.

Marco Silva has to be given a lot of credit for his work in the English capital - but Ipswich can beat big teams both at home and away.

With this in mind, you would back the Tractor Boys to give Silva's side a very tough test.

However, Ipswich will need to be good defensively and they have shown their class at the back this term, so it will be interesting to see whether they can upset the odds once more.

They certainly have the potential to do so - and it would be foolish to write McKenna's side off - especially if they remain in good form in the league.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/ipswich-town-star-makes-confident-claim-on-fulham-efl-cup-draw/

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West London Derby: Fulham and Chelsea's Premier League Face-Off
West London Showdown: Fulham vs Chelsea Preview

Rivalry Reignited: Fulham and Chelsea Go Head-to-Head
The Fulham faithful and their Chelsea counterparts are gearing up for what promises to be another fiery encounter in the heart of west London. As both teams look to pen another chapter in their Premier League story, Craven Cottage will undoubtedly be alive with tension and rivalry come Monday night.

Recent Run of Form
Chelsea are coming off the back of a somewhat sombre spell, having concluded a painful three-match goal drought against Brighton in the Carabao Cup. Notably, Nicolas Jackson's crucial strike at the Bridge brought some much-needed respite to Mauricio Pochettino's beleaguered side, who currently find themselves in an unfamiliar 14th position in the Premier League with a mere win from six outings.

On the flip side, Fulham have had their own set of roller-coaster moments. Having outplayed Championship contenders Norwich in the cup and secured a Premier League victory over Luton, Marco Silva's troops settled for a draw against Crystal Palace. It's been a mixed bag for Silva, with Fulham's balance sheet showing two victories, two draws, and two losses, placing them comfortably mid-table.

Match Details

    Date and Time: 8pm BST, Monday, October 2, 2023
    Venue: The iconic Craven Cottage

Where to Catch the Action
For those in the UK, Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League will be broadcasting this electrifying derby, with the Monday Night Football coverage initiating from 6:30pm. Additionally, Sky Go app subscribers will have the privilege of streaming the game live.

njury and Suspension News
Fulham fans might have their fingers crossed for Serbian maestro, Sasa Lukic, who seems primed for a comeback after a groin injury. While Kenny Tete's status remains uncertain, both Tosin Adarabioyo and Adama Traore are confirmed absentees.

Over at the Chelsea camp, suspension woes continue to haunt them. Nicolas Jackson, the recent hero against Brighton, will be missing out due to accumulated yellows. Malo Gusto is also serving a suspension, and the injury list appears extensive with Ben Chilwell, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Romeo Lavia, Christopher Nkunku, Carney Chukwuemeka, Trevoh Chalobah, and Marcus Bettinelli all sidelined. To top it off, Chelsea's captain, Reece James, after a tunnel debacle post the Aston Villa defeat, could be facing a potential ban.

Game Prediction
Despite narrowly edging past a revamped Brighton side in the Carabao Cup, Chelsea's display hardly inspired confidence. An upturn in fortune still seems distant, even with some positive sparks in recent games. The challenge gets steeper as they head into Fulham territory, a team eager to capitalise on Chelsea's vulnerable state.

Given the current form and the intense nature of the derby, the pendulum could swing either way. However, the smart money might be on a pulsating 1-1 draw under the Craven Cottage floodlights.

Past Encounters: Fulham vs Chelsea
Chelsea, historically, have enjoyed the upper hand in this local feud. However, it's been a while since they last tasted victory against Fulham, with their most recent win dating back to May 2021. Their previous season saw a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge and a 2-1 defeat at the Cottage. The overall tally stands at 50 wins for Chelsea, 12 for Fulham, and 27 draws.

In this Premier League chapter, Fulham would love nothing more than to heap further misery on their illustrious neighbours.



https://eplindex.com/97161/west-london-derby-fulham-and-chelseas-premier-league-face-off.html

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"That's what happened" – Silva says Fulham player had 'several proposals', PL side blocked summer exit
Fulham star João Palhinha saw his move to Bayern Munich collapse on deadline day.

The 28-year-old travlled to Germany and even underwent medical tests with the Bavarian club but the latter were unable to get the deal over the line. Since returning to Fulham, he's signed a new contract until 2028, with an option for another year.

DAZN/Eleven have interviewed Fulham manager Marco Silva and he explained that a failed transfer in the last window had nothing to do with his renewal. He also revealed what happened behind the scenes in the summer, and his quotes are relayed by A Bola.

The defensive midfielder arrived at the Premier League side from Sporting in 2022 and finished his debut season in London with 40 appearances, scoring four goals in the process.

Silva has revealed the Portugal international's fine displays resulted in several clubs wanting to acquire his services in the last window, but his employer decided not to part ways with him.

"The renewal was important and it was something that was being planned, it wasn't because of Bayern or anything like that. It was already being planned during the summer," he said.

"João had several proposals, this one from Bayern was more popular because it is one of the biggest clubs in the world, but there were others and the club decided not to sell. With players who perform like they do and gain such great importance, Fulham have to do something to make them feel good and valued. That's what happened."

Despite the failed move to the Bundesliga side, Palhinha continues to have an important role at Fulham as he's made six appearances this season.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/thats-what-happened-silva-says-fulham-player-had-several-proposals-pl-side-blocked-summer-exit/

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Premier League predictions: Chris Sutton v Sumotherhood star Jazzie Zonzolo
Tottenham and Liverpool are both unbeaten so far in the Premier League, but will that still be the case after they meet on Saturday?

"This is going to be a great game, but it's so hard to pick a winner," BBC Sport football expert Chris Sutton said. "Surely Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou can't keep on being the magic man, or can he?

"In the past this match was billed as Harry Kane versus Mohamed Salah but now it feels like there is an armoury of forwards on both sides who could all be match-winners, which makes it a must-watch game."

Sutton is making predictions for all 380 Premier League matches again this season, against a variety of guests.

His opponent for this weekend's fixtures is actor Jazzie Zonzolo, star of new film Sumotherhood.

Sumotherhood is an urban comedy about the adventures of Riko and Kane and their attempts to make money. It is in UK cinemas from 13 October.

Zonzolo and the rest of the film's cast are taking part in a charity football tournament, called the Sumothercup, on 9 October to raise money for Football Beyond Borders.

"I've not played with anyone else on our team yet, so I'm not really not sure how we are going to do," Zonzolo told BBC Sport. "I'm really just hoping for the best.

"I'm not a bad player myself but I don't get on the pitch much any more - I used to play for AFC Wimbledon back in the day before I just stopped football because I wanted to be an actor.

"I'd started out as a striker when I was really young but I ended up playing centre-back or left-back - my heroes were still goalscorers like Thierry Henry and Nicolas Anelka, though.

"Arsenal are my team, and Henry was just amazing. He just made everything look so easy - and he was so cool - it was like he was a superhero, really.

"I was a big fan of Robert Pires too, because it just looked like he always knew what he had to do. We had quite a few players at that time who were just on another level."

Gunners fans had to endure a few lean years before Mikel Arteta built the team that pushed Manchester City so close last season and, speaking of strikers, Zonzolo feels that is the only thing they are missing in their title bid.

"We need a clinical finisher," he added. "If we had a number nine who just scored goals, like Erling Haaland does for City, I really think that could make the difference.

"There's been a bit of talk about Ollie Watkins at Aston Villa and his numbers are really good, but I would 100% take Ivan Toney in January if we could get him then.

"He was banging in the goals for Brentford last season, so you just think how good he would be for us. I'd love to see him in this Arsenal team."

Chris Sutton and Jazzie Zonzolo were speaking to BBC Sport's Chris Bevan.

Fulham v Chelsea (20:00)
I've learned my lesson at last - I am not backing Chelsea any more because they have cost me so many prediction points.

The biggest problem for Mauricio Pochettino's side has been taking chances, not creating them, and maybe Nicolas Jackson's goal against Brighton in the Carabao Cup is the start of a run for them in front of goal.

I don't see it though, and I actually fancy Fulham to edge this. Scoring goals hasn't been easy for them either, but one might be enough for them on Monday.

Sutton's prediction: 1-0

Jazzie's prediction: Let's go with Fulham to cause a bit of a shock. 3-1



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/66906667

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Mauricio Pochettino now has three Chelsea undroppables vs Fulham amid attacking duo dominance
Mauricio Pochettino must look to these three stars ahead of Chelsea's trip to Craven Cottage

If last season for Chelsea could be summed up in one match, I think it'd be this exact fixture. Nine months on from that clash in mid-January and none of those mainly involved with the match are even at the club anymore.

Slap bang in the middle of Graham Potter's reign over the Blues dugout came the trip to Craven Cottage and Chelsea needed a bounce-back having lost to eventual champions Manchester City 1-0 just a week prior. Of course, it wouldn't be 2022/23 Chelsea without a former player scoring against them and Brazilian international Willian did just that, breaking the deadlock early in the first half with a deflected effort off the backside of Trevoh Chalobah.

Then it would be up to one of Potter's defenders to actually score and get Chelsea back into the game. Kalidou Koulibaly put away a scuffed, hectic effort after Mason Mount's free kick hit the post, giving the Blues a semblance of false hope they felt so often last year.

To add to the comedy, Carlos Vinicius nodded in his first goal of the season late on to hand Fulham just their second win over Chelsea in the Premier League and their first win over the Blues in all competitions since 2006. Mauricio Pochettino will not be hoping for a repeat of that.

Much like last season, Chelsea have been struggling, having just notched their second win under Pochettino's guise in a scrappy but necessary win over Brighton in midweek thanks to a Nicolas Jackson goal but the Senegalese striker won't be there to hit the back of the net come Monday night. Fortunately, there are others he can look to in order to regain the support of those that have already put his side under a microscope.

Fulham come into the clash unbeaten in their last three in all competitions, although the level of opponents (Luton Town, Crystal Palace and Championship side Norwich) makes that statistic somewhat of a Trojan Horse. They've not looked particularly impressive despite sitting three places above the Blues in the table, with heavy defeats to both Manchester City and Brentford also on their resume.

With that being said, here's three ways he can keep building momentum with a win over the Cottagers on Monday night...

Palmer precedent
Of every individual performance so far this season for the Blues, I'm happy to say Cole Palmer against Brighton was easily the most impressive I've seen from a Chelsea player. His ability to seemingly never lose the ball under pressure was admirable to watch to say the least and if Pochettino wants any success as his side enter a tough run of fixtures, Palmer will no doubt be key to that.

Not only did he set up Jackson for the match winner with a lovely nutmeg through ball, it was his calmness moving the ball forward that stood out. He never looked flustered or overwhelmed by the more physical, pressing Brighton midfield and even dropped back to pick the ball up deep in his own half before carrying it forward with conviction.

It was a real showing on his full debut and a great reminder that when this Chelsea team is on it, they do have what it takes to beat good sides. Just look to Palmer and copy what he does.

Mudryk momentum
Mykhailo Mudryk has had a tough start to life at Chelsea, there's no one really doubting that. His build-up play has been solid and he can run at defenders for days. But it's the final part that he can never sort out, that calm finish, the well-timed cross.

And to start this season, it was much of the same. Flashes of brilliance ending with more misery and frustration for those both on and off the pitch. However, over the past few weeks, there's been an evident change in Mudryk.

Now, I won't say it's not the crossbar challenges he's been doing with Pochettino at Cobham but I have a serious feeling it'll all come up good for the Ukrainian sooner rather than later. The standing ovation he received after coming off against Brighton is a far cry from the toxicity Stamford Bridge has poured onto the 22-year-old in recent months and I dare say he actually deserves it.

I think giving him well-deserved minutes will do nothing but boost the youngster's confidence further and give him more experience in what genuinely could be a breakout season for him.

Broja is back
Armando Broja made his return to football after a ten-month absence following his serious knee injury in December last year. He did well to actually put himself about a bit in the latter stages of the game in midweek, helping Enzo Fernandez keep the ball in the corner and drawing a foul that eventually led to the final whistle.

He also broke down the byline more than once, one time stealing the ball off of former Blues full-back Tariq Lamptey and driving into the box to win a corner. That's what he'll need to do if he's to come in and replace Nicolas Jackson in a few days time.

But Chelsea fans - and Pochettino - must stay patient with him. He's only scored once for the Blues in his career so far, don't expect the world from him just because the side is in a rut. Of course, I'd love for him to prove me wrong though.



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/mauricio-pochettino-now-three-chelsea-27808956

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Silva: 'We made Palhinha feel valued'
Marco Silva has been given further details of Fulham's frenzied attempts to keep hold João Palhinha over the course of the summer.

The Portuguese international's fantastic form since moving to Craven Cottage from Sporting Lisbon last summer attracted the interest of a number of European sides, including Bayern Munich, who pressed to sign the 28 year-old late in the August transfer window. But Silva has revealed during an interview with Eleven Sports in his native Portugal that discussions were already underway about a new deal for Palhinha before the drama of deadline day:

"The renewal [of Palhinha's contract] was important and it was something that was being planned, it wasn't because of Bayern or anything like that. It was already being planned during the summer.

João had several proposals, this one from Bayern was more popular because it is one of the biggest clubs in the world, but there were others and the club decided not to sell. With players who perform like they do and gain such great importance, Fulham have to do something to make them feel good and valued. That's what happened."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/silva-we-made-palhinha-feel-valued/

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'I wouldn't be shocked': Paul Merson shares who he thinks will win on Monday – Fulham or Chelsea
Paul Merson has predicted Chelsea to pick up a narrow win when they travel to Fulham on Monday night.

The Blues visit Craven Cottage in a few days time for an important Premier League fixture against Fulham.

Mauricio Pochettino's side have just one victory from their opening six league games, so they're desperately under pressure to improve their form. A midweek triumph against Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round should at least give them a mini boost, though.

Merson thinks Chelsea will edge out neighbours Fulham with a 1-0 away win on Monday.

He told Sportskeeda: "Chelsea got a good result in the Carabao Cup against Brighton – they really needed it. However, they have a bit of an issue against Fulham as Nicolas Jackson is suspended. I think Armando Broja will be given an opportunity to lead the line and I hope he takes his chance as he was doing well before getting injured.

"The Blues have opened up teams but haven't been scoring freely. On some level, watching Chelsea reminds me of Manchester United because they don't have a fixed pattern of play or a clear philosophy like Arsenal, Manchester City, or even Liverpool.

"I wouldn't be shocked if Chelsea dropped points because it's been that kind of a season for them, but they're my team and my heart says they'll win 1-0. Mauricio Pochettino still hasn't found his best team and I feel bad for him as they've just gone out and bought player after player with no real plan.

"They also have a handful of injury issues to deal with, so I think we have to wait before passing judgment on Pochettino's time at the club.

"Prediction: Fulham 0-1 Chelsea."

We'll learn more in Pochettino's pre-match press conference about player availability, but we already know for sure Malo Gusto and Nicolas Jackson will be missing through suspension. As a result, it'll be intriguing to see who replaces them in the right-back and striker position.

Chelsea's lack of goals is clearly holding them back in the opening months of the season, but can they put that right on the trip to Fulham.

One option is Raheem Sterling could lead the line during Jackson's absence, with Armando Broja providing 30 minutes off the bench as he continues to recover from a long-term injury layout.



https://www.thechelseachronicle.com/news/i-wouldnt-be-shocked-paul-merson-shares-who-he-thinks-will-win-on-monday-fulham-or-chelsea/

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Latest Fulham injury news as three to miss Chelsea with huge Mauricio Pochettino boost
Chelsea news as Marco Silva delivers the latest injury news for the Cottagers ahead of their clash on Monday

Fulham manager Marco Silva will be without three of his key players as they prepare to welcome West London rivals Chelsea to Craven Cottage on Monday night.

The Blues will be hoping to continue their winning ways after a 1-0 result over Brighton at Stamford Bridge in midweek saw them score their first goal of the month through Nicolas Jackson - who will miss the short trip on Monday due to suspension. It's been an up-and-down season for Pochettino's side, who have struggled to really get into the groove and have stuttered to their current place of 14th in the table.

Fulham haven't done much better, sitting just three places and three points above the Blues in 11th, but also picked up a win in midweek against Championship side Norwich. They're now unbeaten in their last three but have suffered 5-1 and 3-0 defeats to Manchester City and Brentford respectively already this season.

With just one win against Chelsea in all competitions since 2006, the Cottagers will fancy their chances against A Blues side who haven't been able to build momentum in recent weeks. Ahead of the match, Silva confirmed who would be available for him and who would miss out.

Adama Traore has been confirmed to miss the game, with the Spanish international continuing to suffer from a hamstring injury he picked up during the international break. The star has only played 35 minutes of Premier League football this season after making the move to West London, but won't feature for a few more weeks at least.

Centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo will also miss out as he recovers from an ongoing groin injury from last season. The 26-year-old underwent surgery in the preseason but has failed to properly recover from his ailment, leaving Silva with less options at the back.

Full-back Kenny Tete will continue to be assessed by the Cottagers after he picked up an issue during their match against Luton Town two weeks ago. Sasa Lukic, who has missed their last five games, will be included in the matchday squad having recovered from a groin injury of his own.



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/latest-fulham-injury-news-three-27810055

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Fulham boss Marco Silva warns Chelsea 'tough' opponents despite recent form
Fulham boss Marco Silva expects a "tough game" against Chelsea despite Mauricio Pochettino's side making a poor start to the season.

Chelsea have taken just five points from their opening six Premier League games and head to Craven Cottage, where they lost 2-1 in January, for a west London derby on Monday.

Silva touched on his relationship with the under-fire Pochettino and the Argentinean's pedigree as a manager.

"Of course I respect him like I do all the managers but I have a very good relationship with Mauricio," Silva said.

"I don't know how many times we've played each other in the Premier League but he's a very good manager.

"Look at what he did at Southampton, then Tottenham and then the spell in France (with Paris St Germain) – with the CV he has he's come back to England to manage Chelsea, which is a tough job much like many jobs in the Premier League.

"I have huge respect for him, he's a very good manager and a very good guy and it will be nice to see him again."

Chelsea fell to a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa last week where Malo Gusto and Nicolas Jackson picked up suspensions for Monday's game.

Silva refused to take confidence from Chelsea's recent league form – they have not scored in their last three, taking only one point – and highlighted the quality in their squad after a £1 billion-plus revamp since last year.

"It's going to be a tough game," he added.

"Chelsea is Chelsea and no-one can underestimate them because the quality is there.

"Of course they haven't started the way they would of liked to and since Mauricio come in they are trying to get them in a position to fight for titles.

"Against Chelsea it doesn't matter what they did in the last few games, after the defeat to Villa they reacted and they won against Brighton in the Carabao Cup which is a goal for them (to win).

    Chelsea is Chelsea and no one can underestimate them because the quality is there

Marco Silva

"Since January they have signed a big number of players who are very good and these things take time.

"Mauricio, the staff and the players will want to keep improving and to react and if we underestimate them it will be the first big mistake."

Silva highlighted the importance of the derby to Fulham fans.

He said: "We play at home and it's a derby, a special one for our fans and we want to play for the shirt and make them proud.

"The game is important for our fans, we want to be competitive, fight for the three points and to make their life (Chelsea) difficult as well."



https://www.irishnews.com/sport/footballsoccer/2023/09/29/news/fulham_boss_marco_silva_warns_chelsea_tough_opponents_despite_recent_form-3656783/

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Lukic fit to return for Fulham against Chelsea
Fulham midfielder Sasa Lukic is set to return to the squad for Monday's derby against Chelsea.

The Serbia international injured his groin in last month's 2-2 draw with Arsenal but has been cleared to face the struggling Blues at Craven Cottage.

Tosin Adarabioyo and Adama Trarore are both unavailable for the match.

Chelsea have only beaten lowly Luton this season in the Premier League and have scored just five goals in six matches.

However, Fulham boss Marco Silva believes counterpart Mauricio Pochettino will turn things around at Stamford Bridge.

"I have great respect for Mauricio's and have a great relationship with him," Silva said.

"He is a very good manager – look at what he did at Southampton and Tottenham and the way he made them grow and after the spell he had in France with PSG he has a great CV and that saw him get back to the Premier League with Chelsea.

"But Chelsea is a tough job, like all the jobs in the Premier League, but he is a very good manager and very good guy as well and it will be nice to see him as well.

"We know their quality, they have spent over £200m on Enzo (Fernandez) and (Moises) Caicedo, which shows how much they really wanted them in their team, and a billion pounds on their players.

"They have quality and energy and the organisation in midfield and it will be a real fight in there with our midfield."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-midfielder-set-to-return-silva-backs-pochettino-to-turn-things-around-at-chelsea

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Pre-Chelsea Press Conference

After giving supporters a first win over Chelsea in almost 17 years last season, Marco Silva is keen to replicate that feeling on Monday night.

"You recognise how important it is when you feel the fans," he said of the SW6 derby. "It's probably the closest club from our football club, and that makes the derby slightly different, but we have some others in London as well.

"You feel that the game is important for our fans. We want to be competitive, want to fight for the three points. We are playing at home and we want to make their life really difficult.

"Last season I had that feeling, how it's important for our fans, for sure. We gave them a very good week last January when we played against them at the Cottage.

"After the match, we felt how they were proud of ourselves. This [game] is really special for them.

"We want to get a good result, we want to make them proud again, and what we can promise is that we are going to give our maximum again for the shirt and to make them proud again.

"It's a big thing for us that we are going to play at home, in our environment. We love everything about Craven Cottage matches and, for us, it will be a very good feeling again."

Just one league win all season means Chelsea currently sit 14th going into game-week seven, but Silva knows how perilous it could be to write them off.

"Chelsea is Chelsea," he stated. "No-one can underestimate them because the quality is there.

"Of course, they haven't started the way they would like. Since Mauricio [Pochettino] came in, he is trying to get the things in the right direction for them to fight for titles, like they want to be, but really that's not the most important thing for us. We will look for ourselves.

"We are analysing them, we are going to have a plan for the match, like we have always, it's not going to be different than what we did against Norwich, that we did last week against Palace, we will do always the same.

"After the defeat against Villa, [Chelsea] reacted and they went again in the game against Brighton in the Carabao Cup, they went through in the competition, which was one of their goals for that competition, for sure. And now they are going to face us at the Cottage.

"Of course, we respect them, it's no different than the respect we had for Palace last week, with Luton the week before, with Norwich, or the next one against Sheffield United.

"We cannot hide that it's a derby, and always a special one. For our fans it's a really special derby.

"What we want really, and what we can promise them, is just that we are going to give our maximum really for the shirt and to make them proud."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/29/pre-chelsea-press-conference/

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Marco Silva warns Fulham of Chelsea fightback ahead of west London derby
Cottagers host rivals on Monday night

Marco Silva has talked up Fulham's rivals Chelsea ahead of Monday night's Premier League west London derby.

Chelsea have taken just five points from their opening six Premier League games and head to Craven Cottage, where they lost 2-0 in January, for a west London derby on Monday.

Silva touched on his relationship with the under-fire Pochettino and the Argentinean's pedigree as a manager.

"Of course I respect him like I do all the managers but I have a very good relationship with Mauricio," Silva said.

"I don't know how many times we've played each other in the Premier League but he's a very good manager.

"Look at what he did at Southampton, then Tottenham and then the spell in France (with Paris St Germain) - with the CV he has he's come back to England to manage Chelsea, which is a tough job much like many jobs in the Premier League.

"I have huge respect for him, he's a very good manager and a very good guy and it will be nice to see him again."

Chelsea fell to a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa last week where Malo Gusto and Nicolas Jackson picked up suspensions for Monday's game.

Silva refused to take confidence from Chelsea's recent league form - they have not scored in their last three, taking only one point - and highlighted the quality in their squad after a £1 billion-plus revamp since last year.

"It's going to be a tough game," he added.

"Chelsea is Chelsea and no-one can underestimate them because the quality is there.

"Of course they haven't started the way they would of liked to and since Mauricio come in they are trying to get them in a position to fight for titles.

"Against Chelsea it doesn't matter what they did in the last few games, after the defeat to Villa they reacted and they won against Brighton in the Carabao Cup which is a goal for them (to win).

"Since January they have signed a big number of players who are very good and these things take time.

"Mauricio, the staff and the players will want to keep improving and to react and if we underestimate them it will be the first big mistake."

Silva highlighted the importance of the derby to Fulham fans.

He said: "We play at home and it's a derby, a special one for our fans and we want to play for the shirt and make them proud.

"The game is important for our fans, we want to be competitive, fight for the three points and to make their life (Chelsea) difficult as well."

Addtional reporting from PA



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/silva-fulham-fc-vs-chelsea-news-premier-league-2023-b1110310.html

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Ipswich Date Confirmed

Fulham's Carabao Cup Fourth Round tie against Ipswich Town will take place on Wednesday 1st November (7.45pm).

Ticket information for the Portman Road clash with be provided in due course.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/29/ipswich-date-confirmed/

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Confirmed team news: Chelsea midfielder Chukwuemeka returns to full training ahead of Fulham derby
Chelsea have received an injury boost ahead of their Premier League encounter against Fulham on Monday at the Craven Cottage.

According to a statement on the club's official website, Chelsea have confirmed that Super Eagles-eligible midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka has returned to full team training.

Chukwuemeka picked up a knee injury in their  3-1 loss to West Ham on matchday two of the Premier League and netted Chelsea's only goal - his first senior goal.

It was his strike against the Hammers that won Chelsea's Goal of the Month for August, beating four other nominees to the award.

Chukwuemeka's return to training will be a big boost for Mauricio Pochettino who has been without a natural "10" since his injury, with Christopher Nkunku, the other player capable of playing in that position, still receiving treatment  for a knee injury he picked up before the start of the season.

Chelsea are without a win in the Premier League since beating Luton Town on matchday three and will be looking to return to winning ways against Fulham on Monday night.

The Blues are fourteenth in the standings with five points from six games heading into the next round of fixtures.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=48975

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Mauricio Pochettino delivers mixed Chelsea injury update ahead of Fulham game
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed that Ben Chilwell faces a period on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

After starting a number of games among the replacements, Chilwell returned to the team for Wednesday's EFL Cup third-round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion.

However, during the closing stages of the 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge, the left-sided player was forced to come off courtesy of an issue with his hamstring.

A report in the Evening Standard has indicated that the England international faces the prospect of a month on the sidelines.

While Pochettino has hinted that Chilwell will not return in the short term, he refused to confirm a timeframe for the player's recovery.

Speaking to reporters, the Argentine said: "It was in the last minute of the game. Yes, we are really sad about the news over Ben.

"It is difficult to know now (how long). It is less than two days since it happened. We need to assess in the next few days and the doctor will tell us so that the club can communicate."

Nevertheless, there was positive news regarding Carney Chukwuemeka - who has been absent since the middle of August with a knee injury - and Noni Madueke who sustained a muscle problem during his time with England Under-21s earlier this month.

He added: "We hope that maybe Carney and, of course, Noni, also after his injury when he came back from the national team. He is getting ready and working hard. We hope that, maybe, these two players will be available for selection on Monday."

There have also been reports regarding Reece James, who has not featured since the opening weekend because of a hamstring injury, with it being suggested that the club captain could return against Arsenal after the international break.

Although Pochettino has dismissed the possibility of James featuring against Fulham, he refused to rule the right-back from returning versus Burnley on October 7.

Pochettino said: "For Monday, I don't believe. Maybe the week after, we will see. We need to assess him, but we cannot confirm at the moment."

Chelsea head into the game with their West London neighbours having accumulated just five points from their opening six matches in the Premier League.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/chelsea/west-london-derby/news/pochettino-delivers-mixed-chelsea-injury-update-ahead-of-fulham-game_525290.html?newsnow

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Chelsea's Chilwell out for Fulham game, says Pochettino
Sept 29 (Reuters) - Chelsea returned to winning ways in the League Cup against Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday, but the victory came at a cost with Ben Chilwell forced off, and his hamstring injury will keep him out for the near future, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

"I think it is bad news, what the doctor told me is not a good thing. It looks a bad injury so we will assess in the next days and we will see the period he is going to be absent from the squad," Pochettino told reporters ahead of Chelsea's visit to Craven Cottage to face Fulham on Monday.

"We are really sad about the news about Ben. The time(scale) is difficult to say now. The doctor will tell us and the club will communicate."

The Argentine manager is more optimistic regarding some other injury concerns. Carney Chukwuemeka has not played since Aug. 20 with a knee injury, but returned to training this week.

"I hope that maybe Carney, and of course Noni (Madueke) also, after his issue when he came back from the national team, he's getting ready.

"I hope that these two players will maybe be available for selection on Monday."

Chelsea, with just one league win from six games, have also failed to score in their last three Premier League games, with just five league goals so far this season.

Nicolas Jackson scored the only goal of the game against Brighton, but the player, who also scored Chelsea's last league goal back in August, is unavailable for the trip to Fulham because of suspension.

The Argentine manager will need to plan for the next game without Jackson, as he looks to find a solution to his side's lack of goals.

"We have a few options, to play with a striker and without a striker. We need to assess the whole squad after the game, things appear after 48 hours and we need to see how they are and how they recover from Wednesday," he said.

"The most important thing is to adapt, the squad needs to find a way to perform, that is the most important."

Chelsea are in 14th place in the table with five points, with Fulham three points ahead in 11th.



https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/chelseas-chilwell-out-fulham-game-says-pochettino-2023-09-29/?rpc=401&;