Monday Fulham Stuff - 02/10/23...

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'Wasn't an easy decision': £22m player admits he made really difficult choice leaving Everton this summer
Former Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi has now said why he chose to make the move from Everton to Fulham in the summer, though admits it was a difficult choice.

The Nigerian international moved to Craven Cottage in a £22m deal in August, and says that while it 'wasn't an easy decision' to move, he 'felt' like he needed a new challenge.

Everton signed Iwobi during Marco Silva's time at the club in a £28m deal with Arsenal, and the 27-year-old has now returned to the capital to link up with the Portuguese coach once more.

Speaking with The Athletic, Iwobi revealed the reasons behind his departure: "It wasn't an easy decision (to leave)," Iwobi says.

"I enjoyed my time there (at Everton). Especially the last couple of years. I felt like they warmed to me.

At the same time, I felt I needed a new challenge, and Fulham are giving me the platform to express myself and do that."

Alex Iwobi was perhaps let down by managerial disruptions at Everton
Alex Iwobi took a couple of seasons to get his Everton career going following his 2019 move to Goodison Park but eventually matured and developed as a creative outlet.

Indeed, his versatility saw him play in multiple positions under different managers at the Toffees, but Frank Lampard's decision to play him centrally got the best out of him.

However, the Nigerian international featured on the right-wing once more during the second half of last season following Sean Dyche's appointment at Goodison Park.

Once a maligned figure, Iwobi became a player Everton grew to rely on in recent seasons as the Toffees' found themselves limited creatively following the £60m departure of Richarlison.

However, Iwobi lacked consistency and the club could ill afford to turn down the chance to recoup £22m for the 27-year-old.

Indeed, with Jack Harrison joining on loan from Leeds United and Arnaut Danjuma joining on a temporary basis from Villarreal, Everton exploited the loan market to plug the gap following Iwobi's departure.




https://www.everton.news/wasnt-an-easy-decision-alex-iwobi-admits-he-made-really-difficult-choice-leaving-everton-this-summer/

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Iwobi on his Craven Cottage memories
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has shared his memories of watching his uncle Jay-Jay Okocha play at Craven Cottage as a youngster in a revealing interview with the Athletic's Peter Rutzler.

The former Arsenal and Everton star, now a Nigerian international regular, took every opportunity to watch Okocha when he could as a young boy and some of his favourite trips were to Fulham when the legendary entertainer was playing for Bolton Wanderers:

"I remember as a kid coming here. I watched him with my dad — coming here on my dad's shoulders. I always said to myself that one day I wanted to play and do what he did. Coming here and playing for Fulham has given me so many memories."

Iwobi, who opened his Fulham account with the winner as the Whites progressed past Norwich City in the League Cup last Wednesday, has settled in seamlessly under Marco Silva, his old manager at Everton, and reiterated that the Portuguese coach's desire to bring him back to London was a key factor in his deadline day move.

"He said the same thing he did to get me from Arsenal to Everton: 'I believe in your abilities, your qualities', and he said it was a plus that I played in numerous positions at Everton. The main thing is that he knows I have the ability to get goals and assists. So I just have to remain calm and do that. I was able to do it. Hopefully, there's more to come."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/iwobi-on-his-craven-cottage-memories/

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Chelsea brutally trolled as Mauricio Pochettino woes highlighted in humiliating fashion

Chelsea have scored just five goals this Premier League campaign and the last time they were on the scoresheet was over a month ago in a 3-0 rout of promoted Luton on August 25th

Chelsea have been brutally trolled over their lack of Premier League goals this season ahead of their must-win clash with Fulham on Monday night.

The Blues travel to Craven Cottage to face their fierce rivals in a mouthwatering Monday Night Football showdown. Mauricio Pochettino's struggling side currently sit 15th in the league, just two points above the relegation zone after winning just one of their opening six games.

It's not just the lack of points that has been concerning, though. The Stamford Bridge side have scored just five goals this campaign and the last time they got goals on the board was over a month ago in a 3-0 rout of promoted Luton on August 25th.

Domino's recently rubbed salt in their wounds by posting a tweet mocking their lack of goals, which went viral with more than one million views. And the pizza giant have now taken things a step further by reminding Chelsea fans of just how many more pizzas they've delivered since they scored a league goal.

Pictured outside Fulham's Craven Cottage ahead of the clash, Domino's put a live digital tracker outside the stadium which displayed the number pizzas they've served in the time since the Blues' last goal – currently sitting at a staggering nine million. It is no doubt a humiliating period for the club and they'll be hoping to put it right against their rivals.

Despite their woes, Pochettino has again to blame injuries for his team's slow start to the season, with as many as 11 players likely to be missing when Chelsea face Fulham in search of just their second league win of the campaign.

There were three players aged 19 or under with no first-team experience named on the bench when the team drew at Bournemouth two weeks ago, and since then Ben Chilwell's name has been added to an extensive injury list after he limped out of last week's win over Brighton with a hamstring problem.


Domino's have brutally mocked Chelsea ahead of their clash with Fulham ( Image:
Domino's)

"I cannot use the excuse of injuries," said Pochettino. "The performances have been good. We cannot blame injuries, I think it's not fair. We played well in every single game and we deserved more, but for different reasons, we didn't score and we were not clinical enough.

"But we cannot blame injuries. Of course it's a factor that we need to improve. When you have your whole squad, you increase the level of the team. You put pressure on the players that play because it's another player waiting for your place. We're not winning the games that we deserve, but not because of injuries."

Meanwhile, Fulham manager Marco Silva insisted it is "impossible to compare" his side with Chelsea after the Blues' massive spending in the last year. Chelsea have spent over £1billion since May 2022 and broke the British transfer record twice this year on Enzo Fernandez (£106.8million) and Moises Caicedo (£115 million).

Silva refused to accept that Fulham have any advantage over their local rivals despite Chelsea's nine-man injury list. "You think we have an advantage against Chelsea in terms of squad?," Silva said.

"We are talking about two players who they have got in the last six months (who cost) nearly £250 million (Fernandez and Caicedo), if I say more (about Chelsea spend) it will probably be plus £1billion How can you compare? It's impossible to compare. In the game we are going to give our maximum, but don't try to say there is an advantage for us.

"We are playing at home and we love playing at home and it will be more special." Silva highlighted Chelsea's quality across the pitch and believes Raheem Sterling, who has scored twice this season, will be a threat on Monday.

The Portuguese knows his side will need to be organised to combat stuttering Chelsea, who have picked up just five points from six games. "I think Chelsea can give us a tough one," Silva added. "They are quality in the attack line. Even though they will be without (Nicolas) Jackson (suspended) they have the quality there with Sterling who is in his best moment in a Chelsea shirt.

"They have (Mykhailo) Mudryk on the opposite side too and the quality of Enzo (Fernandez) in midfield as well as the capacity of (Conor) Gallagher to arrive in other areas on the pitch who can also support the striker. I do not know what striker Mauricio (Pochettino) will start but they have the quality. It will be a game which will demand good organisation from us."



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/chelsea-fulham-premier-league-trolled-31082382

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'Not far off': Chelsea now confident 22-year-old will put in match-winning performance soon – journalist
There is a belief at Chelsea that Mykhailo Mudryk is close to putting in a match-winning performances for the Blues.

That is according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

Mykhailo Mudryk has really struggled at Chelsea since joining them from Shakhtar Donetsk in January, but Jacobs recently shared on Twitter that everyone at the club is confident that he will win a game for Mauricio Pochettino's side soon.

The winger is still waiting for his first goal in blue and could have the opportunity to grab it tonight against Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Mykhailo Mudryk, match-winner
On Mudryk, Jacobs said: "Everyone at Chelsea feels he's becoming more settled and not far off a game-winning type display."

Fulham game would be perfect
It would be great if Mudryk's first real match-winning performance for Chelsea came tonight at Craven Cottage.

With the match against rivals Fulham being a London derby, a bright display could really help the 22-year-old to turn things around.

Chelsea supporters will appreciate him more, which could really help his confidence.

Of course, the Blues also need the points, having taken just five from their first six fixtures. That is the most important thing here and another reason why it would be brilliant if the Ukraine international turned up tonight.

They need a good performance from the former Shakhtar Donetsk man as much as he needs one for himself.

With the encounter at Craven Cottage being a London derby, perhaps it could really fire up Pochettino's side and be the turning point in their season if they do manage to get the win against Marco Silva's men.



https://www.thechelseachronicle.com/news/not-far-off-chelsea-now-confident-22-year-old-will-put-in-match-winning-performance-soon-journalist/

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Bargain Bernd Leno out to impress Germany as Fulham prepare for Chelsea
Cottagers 'keeper aiming for a place in Julian Nagelsmann's squad

As Chelsea bid to put their goalscoring woes behind them on Monday night, they face one of the in-form goalkeepers in the Premier League.

Fulham No1 Bernd Leno has started the season brilliantly, making several superb saves.

Leno has kept three clean sheets in six matches — no Premier League goalkeeper has more — and has a save percentage of 81.6.

Another shutout against the Blues will help the 31-year-old's bid to impress new Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann ahead of the Euros in his homeland next summer.

Barcelona's Marc-Andre ter Stegen is Germany first-choice, but Leno hopes to force himself into contention with a strong season for his club.

Leno last season described his £8million transfer fee from Arsenal as a "bargain" — and Fulham certainly feel they have got value for money.

Thanks in part to Leno, Fulham have made a decent start to the season and will move into the top half of the table if they win tonight.

Fulham head coach Marco Silva said: "Bernd deserves more credit outside of the club for what he has been doing.

"He's still one of the best three goalkeepers in this competition in my opinion. He proved that last season and will keep showing that.

"I keep repeating to our fans that they should enjoy having a goalkeeper like Leno. It's so easy to work with him. He's a top professional."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/leno-fulham-vs-chelsea-fc-news-premier-league-2023-b1110745.html

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Games for the weekend 30/09
We get to welcome Chelsea to the Cottage for a Monday evening 8 o'clock kickoff

So after a couple of good results, I think we played really well in both games and were unlucky not to score more?
This is the game that I look forward to most, even though, apart from last season, we rarely got the result we deserved we've always "been up" for the game.
Iwobi played really well against Luton, I was very tempted to start him rather than Willian however, giving a player a chance to play against one of their previous teams nearly always seams to give them a boost.
Hopefully Bassey's injury isn't too bad and he'll be on the bench, I've an idea that we'll see more of him towards the end of the season as he'll be Tim's "long term" replacement.
Raul, Vinicius or Muniz is a bit of a conundrum, Vinicius has scored a couple and I'm sure he'd like to repeat last season, Raul I'm sure will "come good", hopefully once he gets a goal the flood gates will open, and Muniz is the future? there must be a reason why he wasn't sent out on loan again?

Chelsea have their own issues, don't laugh, having spent millions/billions on their squad they're still struggling. I'm sure they'll turn their league form around, I just hope it doesn't start with this game.

Our recent record against Chelsea, apart from last season, is dreadful with only 2 wins, 13 losses and 5 draws

my team would be...

COYW's

Games of Interest...
Saturday 30th
Bournemouth v Arsenal
Man Utd v Palace
West Ham v Sheff Utd
Spurs v Liverpool

Sunday 1st
Forest v Brentford

Monday 2nd
Fulham v Chelsea
come on over to the forum and join in the conversation...
https://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?board=36.0



http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=2907

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Maybe Fulham don't have a striker problem

Jordan Forward-Lamb takes a glass half-full look at Fulham's striking options ahead of Monday's West London derby.

Fulham have a tricky history with Premier League strikers. If you boil it down to goals – and let's face it, that's all most people are paying attention to – our only out-and-out strikers to bag more than 10 goals have been Louis Saha, Barry Hayles, Collins John, Andrew Cole, Dimitar Berbatov, and Aleksander Mitrovic. That's just six across 16 Premier League campaigns.

Suffice to say: strikers like Mitrovic don't come along for Fulham very often. Replacing him was never going to be an option without the club taking a huge gamble, and let's not forget what happened last time the Khans pinned all their hopes on a striker who could save us from slipping down the league table. So it should never have been a surprise that we brought in a misfiring veteran in Raúl Jiménez for £5m. If it works we've scored a bargain and can spend a little longer looking for a new striker, if it doesn't we've got a proven back-up in Carlos Vinícius.

Still, even the most pessimistic fans probably didn't predict the season starting this slowly without Mitro. Our three strikers have managed only one goal in six games between them: a truly miserable return. But it's an equally poor reflection of the quality and depth Marco Silva has at his disposal in Jiménez, Viní, and Muniz.

Robust Raul
Let's start with Jiménez. The Mexican hasn't seemed off the pace or out of place at any point this season; apart from a goal, he's got it all. He presses intelligently, coordinating with Pereira to make sure opposition defenders are never comfortable in their own third. His first touch is excellent, and with superior pace to Mitro, he poses a real threat in transitions by drifting out wide and laying the ball off to an onrushing teammate. While he's taken some flack for not being selfish enough in front of goal, he rarely wastes possession and is seemingly always able to calmly pick out a sensible option – one of Mitrovic's most frustrating qualities was his tendency to dawdle on the ball, clumsily dribbling his way into oncoming traffic while ignoring good passing options.

And then there's his snapshot accuracy. We've seen him hit the woodwork while running away from goal in the Everton game, which probably would have been turned in by Cairney if he had enough confidence in his right foot to take a first-time shot. He was inches wide with a bicycle kick in the Arsenal game, and while we'd all rather forget Man City, it was Jiménez – once again moving away from goal – who forced Ederson to parry the ball into Ream's path for our only goal that game. Sure, his shooting accuracy isn't great this season, but this is not a striker running low on confidence who's smashing gilt-edged chances into orbit, and I'd have bet my house on him burying a couple of the opportunities Viní had on Wednesday.

Jiménez gives Marco Silva versatility and dynamism up top, a striker who does a little bit of everything and who would look a great deal more tantalising if those playing around him were at their best. The fact that Jiménez is the leading Fulham player for big chances created says a lot about Fulham's attacking play this season.

Viable Vini
The alternative is Carlos Vinícius, who has carved out a role for himself as a classic poacher. He's a right place, right time kind of striker, who can be infuriating to watch for 70 minutes, but inevitably finds a way to goal, whether that's pouncing on a goalkeeping mistake or turning in a teammate's looping cross-come-shot. He can be languorous and wasteful in some games, but on his day he can draw in and turn defenders with beguiling ease, play out through tight spaces, and, y'know, score the winner against Chelsea. If you expect to be the team without the ball for most of the game and are pinning all your hopes on a couple of shooting opportunities then you could do a lot worse than Vinícius.

And perhaps we'd feel better about him if Fulham had adapted to his strengths sooner last season, playing to feet rather than hoofing balls up to the Brazilian prankster like he's a traditional target man.

Roving Rodrigo
The third option, and I really do believe he's an option, is Rodrigo Muniz. He's the paciest and busiest striker by far, but he's also strong and can climb well, making him a kind of roving target man. Despite scant minutes he makes a lasting impression every time he comes on. In just 10 minutes against Norwich he forced a superb save from the keeper, played two beautiful layoffs, each one springing a dangerous attack, and shielded the ball from a throw in before turning between two defenders and finding a pass on the outside of the box – although, admittedly, that 'pass' was thundered into Wilson's midriff and we duly lost possession.

Muniz is rough around the edges, but in a season where we don't have a truly elite striker he deserves to be in contention. In terms of physical presence and play style, he's arguably the closest thing we have to a Mitrovic replacement, so if things still aren't clicking with Raúl or Viní against Chelsea on Monday, reverting to last season's tactics and trying Muniz up front gives us a genuine plan B.

With Chelsea's sizeable injury list predominantly comprising defenders like Chilwell, James, Badiashile, and Trevor Chalobah, sowing disarray across their backline is where Fulham will have the most luck, and that's where Jiménez and Muniz (as a late sub) will excel.

Pochettino's side has shown some vulnerability in wide areas already this season, particularly when their wing-backs have gotten caught out of position, creating space out wide when Silva, Colwill, and Disasi are occupied centrally, and gaps between the three when they're stretched in transitions. With Jiménez roaming around and making probing runs off the 39-year-old Thiago Silva, there's a good chance our wide players like Willian and Wilson will be able to find the space and killer ball to open things up.

As Drew rightly points out in his match preview, these derbies feel a bit different nowadays, and just as we didn't need Mitro for that historic win, we may be just fine without him on Monday, too.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-10-02-maybe-fulham-dont-have-a-striker-problem/

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Who Replaces Jackson: Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Fulham
This is a Chelsea predicted lineup for their derby with neighbours Fulham in the Premier League. The Blues will be hoping to kick on after a win in the Carabao Cup in midweek saw them notch their first goal in all of September.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Fulham in Derby Clash

How Chelsea Have Lined Up Recently
Robert Sanchez has been a constant in goal since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion. Levi Colwill, Axel Disasi, and Thiago Silva have lined out in the defense with injuries and suspensions causing Ben Chilwell, Malo Gusto, and even Marc Cucurella to fill the fourth spot.

Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Conor Gallagher have operated in the midfield with the Argentine pushing forward to the number ten role as of late. Mykhailo Mudryk has earned a spot on the left with Raheem Sterling everpresent on the right while Nicolas Jackson leads the line unopposed.

Chelsea Recent Form & Tactics
Mauricio Pochettino has used a 4-2-3-1 setup since his arrival at Stamford Bridge and after a strong pre-season, he saw an early dip in the league with his side not getting a win in the competition since a 3-0 victory against Luton on August 25.

A win in midweek marked their first win in any competition in a month and could provide the kickstart needed to spark their campaign into life.

Chelsea Absences to Consider
Ben Chilwell joins the list of players unavailable after leaving the field late in the win over Brighton. He is joined for this game by the suspended Jackson and Gusto, the striker will be back for their next match as this will see out his one-match suspension.

The other names on the injured list are familiar faces at this stage, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Marcus Bettinelli, Trevoh Chalobah, Reece James, Christopher Nkunku, and Romeo Lavia. Carney Chukwuemeka is fit enough for full training but that doesn't guarantee a start.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Fulham
With their first choice striker unavailable there is a selection dilemma on hand for the Blues but they do have options:

GK – Robert Sanchez

LB – Marc Cucurella

CB – Levi Colwill

CB – Thiago Silva

RB – Axel Disasi

DM – Moises Caicedo

DM – Enzo Fernandez

AM – Mykhailo Mudryk

AM – Cole Palmer

AM – Raheem Sterling

ST – Armando Broja



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2023/10/02/chelsea-predicted-lineup-vs-fulham-2/

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Domino's taunt Chelsea with live tracker of pizzas sold vs goals outside Fulham's ground
Domino's have taken a shot at Chelsea with a cheeky stunt ahead of their Premier League clash with Fulham – displaying how many pizzas have been sold since they last scored in England's top flight

Domino's have taunted Chelsea with a cheeky PR stunt outside Fulham's ground, Craven Cottage.

The Blues will continue their Premier League campaign away at Fulham on Monday evening, with Mauricio Pochettino's side struggling to get back into the swing of things.

Nicolas Jackson's 75th minute strike against Luton Town on 25 August was the last time Chelsea found the net in the Premier League. And since then, Dominos have sold 9,892,022 pizzas and counting - a stat that is proudly displayed outside of Craven Cottage.

"We did the maths - turns out it's worse than we thought," Domino's joked. And one fan responded: "Taking prisoners at 10am on a Monday morning and it's beautiful!"

"I'm gonna take a wild guess that Domino's UK Boss is not a Chelsea fan," a second added. While a third said: "This is why Domino's own Chelsea football club!"


Domino's produced the cheeky stunt ahead of Chelsea's Premier League clash with Fulham (Image: Dominos)



https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/chelsea-fulham-dominos-premier-league-31083149

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Chelsea given surprising Fulham prediction by club legend in Gabby Agbonlahor agreement
Chelsea news as the Blues take a short trip to Craven Cottage in a west London derby against Fulham as Mauricio Pochettino tries to make it back-to-back wins

Chelsea prepare to take on local rivals Fulham as they try and build on their midweek Carabao Cup momentum ahead of their west London derby at Craven Cottage.

The Blues were unable to beat the Cottagers last season, only managing a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge after a humiliating 2-1 defeat in this exact fixture. Manager Mauricio Pochettino will hope that their win over Brighton on Wednesday night can get his side back on track after a rough September has seen his side slip down to 15th in the league table.

Fulham, on the other hand, have had an up-and-down start to the season which has seen them take wins over Everton who are currently sat in 16th and Luton Town in 17th, as well as Tottenham in the Carabao Cup last month. However, they have had big losses to both Brentford and Manchester City.

Both sides will look to this one as an opportunity to climb further up the table, with Chelsea able to climb up to 11th with all three points and Fulham up to ninth if the result goes their way. With that said, football.london took a look at what the pundits are saying around the match...

Gabby Agbonlahor
Speaking for talkSPORT ahead of the game, Agbonlahor said: "Well, I don't know how to call this... Fulham are no pushovers. Palhinha in midfield, Willian will play well, Jimenez could start scoring goals.

"Chelsea, you don't know what team they're going to play, what Chelsea are going to turn up. I'm going to go for a draw. I feel like a 2-2 draw.

"Chelsea are still a work in progress. Fulham don't sit back and let teams beat them."

Frank Lebouef
Speaking to CasinosEnLigne.com, Lebouef claims that his former side aren't even likely to score, let alone take all three points off of Fulham. He said: "We all know that Chelsea won't score against Fulham. They'll get a draw at best.

"As we saw against Aston Villa, there's always a fear of conceding as Chelsea will always struggle to score even once. As long as their barren streak continues, there's a massive threat that they're going to lose. It's unbelievable I'm saying that about Chelsea.

"In regards to 'grow up' I think Pochettino meant that, although the players are young, they have to try something different and take risks. If you watch Chelsea play, you'll notice that they play a lot of lateral passes to make sure they don't lose the ball.

"This attitude is not limited to young players, by the way, as Thiago Silva isn't taking risks either. Fans don't care if Chelsea play 750 passes in a game - they care if they don't score. I think Pochettino wants to see something different."



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/chelsea-fulham-prediction-gabby-agbonlahor-27825412

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Are Fulham Ready to Outshine Chelsea in Premier League Duel?

Battle in West London: Fulham Host Chelsea
In the heart of West London, a duel beckons that not only stirs the Premier League pot but also underlines the fragile state of affairs for both Fulham and Chelsea.

From Brighton Blues to Craven Cottage Hopes
Fresh from a nail-biting victory over Brighton in the Carabao Cup, Chelsea, led by the strategic Mauricio Pochettino, set their sights on Fulham. It's a ground that haunted them last season. Victory in Craven Cottage won't just be about securing three points; it's about rebuilding a reputation.

Fulham's Ambition under Starry Skies
On the other side, Fulham, following their win against Championship's Norwich City, have an unmistakable spring in their step. Occupying a position above Chelsea, they're showing the Premier League that they're not just here to participate. However, Monday's outcome might just give the league table a shuffle.

Clash Details:

    Location: Craven Cottage, London
    Date: 2nd October, Monday
    Kick-off: 20:00 BST
    Referee: Tim Robinson
    VAR: Mark Scholes

Historic Face-Offs
Over the past five meetings:

    Fulham: Secured 1 victory
    Chelsea: Took home 3
    Stalemates: 1

Their most recent skirmish ended in a goalless stalemate earlier this year.

Where to Catch the Action
In the UK: Tune into Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, and more. Across the pond in the US: Options range from NBC Sports App, USA Network to fuboTV.

Team Insights
Fulham's Quandaries:
In the UK: Tune into Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Premier League, and more. Across the pond in the US: Options range from NBC Sports App, USA Network to fuboTV.
Team Insights

Fulham's Quandaries:
Chelsea's woes aren't merely limited to tactics. Ben Chilwell's hamstring concern and Nicolas Jackson's rash collection of yellow cards compound Pochettino's challenges. Add to that list Malo Gusto's suspension and it's a perfect storm.

Likely Chelsea Lineup (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Cucurella, Disasi, Silva, Colwill; Caicedo, Gallagher; Palmer, Fernandez, Mudryk; Sterling.

The Final Whistle's Echo
Chelsea might have managed to squeeze past Brighton, but it was far from a commanding display. A shaky defence, coupled with Jackson's suspension, poses a fresh set of challenges for Pochettino.

Fulham, having emerged victorious in this fixture last season, will be keen on a repeat. With the return of Joao Palhinha, their form seems to be on an upswing.

Prediction: Fulham 2-1 Chelsea.

In this unpredictable Premier League season, the streets of West London will surely be echoing with anticipation and excitement come Monday night.



https://eplindex.com/97325/are-fulham-ready-to-outshine-chelsea-in-premier-league-duel.html

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'Leno deserves more credit,' claims Silva
Marco Silva says Bernd Leno 'deserves more credit' for his goalkeeping heroics with Fulham.

The German number one has forced his way back into the national team set-up having enjoyed an outstanding first season at Craven Cottage following his move from Arsenal last summer and kept back-to-back clean sheets against Luton Town and Crystal Palace in the past fortnight. The 31 year-old, who has now kept eleven clean sheets in 43 games for Fulham, will be looking to extend his fine form against Chelsea in the SW6 derby tonight.

Silva told his pre-match press conference on Friday:

"Bernd deserves more credit outside of the club for what he has been doing. He's still one of the best three goalkeepers in this competition in my opinion. He proved that last season and will keep showing that. I keep repeating to our fans that they should enjoy having a goalkeeper like Leno. It's so easy to work with him. He's a top professional."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/leno-deserves-more-credit-claims-silva/

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Fulham Women face Actonians in FA Cup third qualifying round
Fulham FC Women have been handed an away tie against Actonians in the third qualifying round of the FA Cup.

The Whites scored sixteen in easing past Sussex side Steyning Town yesterday but will face a tough test against National League Division One South East outfit Actonians – with the fixture to be played at the Middlesex FA's headquarters, Rectory Park in Northolt, on Sunday 22nd October, with kick off at 2pm.

Actonians are currently eighth in the National League Division One South East table, having picked up seven points from their first six fixtures.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/fulham-women-face-actonians-in-fa-cup-third-qualifying-round/

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Latest Chelsea injury news with seven Fulham doubts amid Chukwuemeka hope and Chilwell blow
Chelsea injury news as Mauricio Pochettino provides an update on a number of his players ahead of the clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage

Chelsea make the short trip across London this evening to face Fulham in the Premier League. Mauricio Pochettino's men will be looking to build on last week's Carabao Cup victory over Brighton and earn only their second league win of the season.

Three points at Craven Cottage would see the Blues move four places in the Premier League table. However, the contest against Marco Silva's side will be difficult due to the long list of absentees at Chelsea.

Injury problems have continued to prevent the club from playing a fully fit squad this season. Eight senior stars are currently out, with Christopher Nkunku and Wesley Fofana the two long-term absentees.

Ahead of tonight's game, left-back Ben Chilwell suffered an unfortunate blow. The England international is set for a period on the sidelines after suffering a "bad" hamstring injury in Wednesday's Carabao Cup win over Brighton.

"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," Pochettino said. "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."

Despite the blow at left-back, the Blues have been handed a huge boost with Carney Chukwuemeka. The midfielder has been out since the second weekend of the season having sustained a knee injury in the 3-1 loss to West Ham United.

After the club confirmed on Friday that the ex-Aston Villa man had returned to full team training, Pochettino was on hand to provide a minor update in his pre-match press conference. "I think maybe Carney [will be available], and of course Noni [Madueke] also," he said.

Defender Benoit Badiashile continues to recover from his knock and is in 'partial team training'. Elsewhere, club captain James could be ready for next weekend's league game with Burnley. Pochettino did, however, claim that the trip to Fulham is too soon. "Reece James, maybe [soon]," he said.

"For Monday, I don't believe. Maybe the week after, we'll see. The week after, we will assess him and I'll confirm then."

Romeo Lavia, who is yet to make his debut for the club, is still out after injuring his ankle in training earlier this month. Trevoh Chalobah is another name in the treatment room at Cobham.

Players unavailable against Fulham: Reece James, Ben Chilwell, Christopher Nkunku, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Marcus Bettinelli, Trevoh Chalobah, Romeo Lavia.



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/chelsea-injury-fulham-chilwell-chukwuemeka-27825972

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'Best solution': Alex Iwobi states that he left Everton 'on good terms' after summer move
Former Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi has stated that his move to Fulham during the summer suited all parties.

The 27-year-old completed a late transfer to Craven Cottage in a £22m deal where he reunited with former Everton boss Marco Silva.

Silva signed the Nigerian international during his time at Goodison Park in a £28m deal with Arsenal back in 2019.

Indeed, the pair will now link up at Fulham, and Iwobi has revealed that the move seemed like the 'best solution' for both himself and the Toffees.

Speaking with The Athletic, Iwobi was asked whether the financial uncertainty at the Blues played a part in his departure.

Iwobi responded: "There was a lot of talks behind closed doors — there are things that I'm not allowed to say — but I feel like it was a decision from the club and from me that the best solution was to leave.

I hope they do well, I have a lot of respect for them and left on good terms."

Alex Iwobi worked hard but lack of preferred playing position perhaps hindered him
Iwobi's time at Goodison Park was mixed at best, with the former Arsenal man a fringe player for a long time, utilised sparingly in various positions including a brief experiment as a wing-back under Carlo Ancelotti.

Indeed, it was not until Frank Lampard played the 27-year-old in his preferred position of central midfield that Everton began to see some return from their investment.

Iwobi began to have an influence on games from the middle of the park and though inconsistent, it was clear that he had to be played centrally to see him at his best.

However, following Lampard's dismissal, his successor Sean Dyche opted to use Iwobi as a right winger, where he played for the second half of last season.

Everton overspent on Iwobi and few would have expected to recoup as much as £22m from the club's investment.

With that in mind, his departure does seem to be the 'best solution' for all parties.



https://www.grandoldteam.com/2023/10/02/best-solution-alex-iwobi-states-that-he-left-everton-on-good-terms-after-summer-move/

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Cole Palmer To Start: 4-2-3-1 Chelsea Predicted XI vs Fulham
Chelsea will be aiming to build on their last week's Carabao Cup win when they travel across the capital to face West London rivals Fulham in the Premier League on Monday evening.

The Blues picked up a win on Wednesday as they edged Brighton 1-0 in the third round of the Carabao Cup, thanks to a second-half strike from Nicolas Jackson. The victory over Brighton ended the Pensioners' three-game winless run in all formats, thus, providing some momentary relief to Mauricio Pochettino.

Tonight, Pochettino will be determined to ensure his side make the perfect start to the month by winning the West London derby bragging rights at Craven Cottage.

Chelsea Team News
Chelsea have been dealt with a big blow as Ben Chilwell is expected to spend some time on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury suffered during the closing stages against Brighton. Skipper Reece James has stepped up his recovery from a hamstring issue in recent times, but the right-back remains unavailable for selection. He is also facing the possibility of a ban after being charged by the FA.

Nicolas Jackson is suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season in the 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa last weekend, while Malo Gusto will serve the second of his three-game ban for his red card against the same opposition.

In some good news on the injury front, Pochettino is hopeful Carney Chukwuemeka and Noni Madueke could return against Fulham.

Predicted Chelsea lineup vs Fulham (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper

Robert Sanchez will have gained some confidence after keeping a clean sheet against his former employers Brighton in the Carabao Cup. The Spaniard should be looking to shut up shop as quickly as possible at Craven Cottage.

Defence

Following the latest injury to Ben Chilwell, changes are expected at the back for Chelsea.

Axel Disasi, who has played in central defence and done well so far this season, could move to the right-back position in the Chelsea lineup. Marc Cucurella applied himself well in an unfamiliar right-back role in midweek but Chilwell's injury should open the door for the Spaniard to start at left-back on Monday.

Veteran Thiago Silva will be fresh to face Fulham, having enjoyed a night off in midweek. He is expected to partner Levi Colwill in central defence in the Chelsea lineup, as the duo look to keep the Fulham forwards at bay.

Midfield

In the middle of the park, Moises Caicedo will feature alongside Conor Gallagher. The two players will look to keep things tidy, create opportunities in the final third and help out offensively.

Enzo Fernandez will be responsible for pulling the strings from the No.10 role in the Chelsea lineup. The World Cup winner will pose a threat in the final third with his late runs, while his deliveries from set-pieces will threaten the Fulham defence.

Lesley Ugochukwu, meanwhile, must settle for a spot on the bench having played the entire game against Brighton in midweek.

Attack

Pochettino could pick Raheem Sterling to deputise for the suspended Nicolas Jackson. Having operated as a false 9 with aplomb on many occasions during his time with Man City, Sterling can provide a solution to Chelsea's goalscoring woes.

With the England international likely starting centrally, Mykhaylo Mudryk and Cole Palmer will be tasked with offering width, dynamism and flair from the left and right flank respectively in the Chelsea lineup.

The likes of Noni Madueke, Carney Chukwuemeka, Armando Broja and Ian Maatsen could get opportunities to make an impact in the second half.



https://madaboutepl.net/2023/10/predicted-chelsea-lineup-vs-fulham-2/

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Youssouf Fofana: "If you're choosing between Nottingham Forest, Fulham and Monaco, naturally I stay at Monaco."
Speaking to Canal Football Club, AS Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana (24) opened up on his decision to remain at the club amidst Premier League interest.

Nottingham Forest and Fulham were both reportedly interested in signing the France international this summer. The Principality club were even prepared to accept an offer from the former, however, Fofana wasn't interested in the move, according to RMC Sport. Fulham, meanwhile, registered a late interest, according to Sports Zone.

Fofana has now said that when deciding his club future this summer, he had his international future in mind. "I want to go to a place where I can continue to be selected for France. If you're choosing between Nottingham Forest, Fulham and AS Monaco, naturally, I'm staying at Monaco," he told Canal Plus in an interview transcribed by La Diagonale.

The former RC Strasbourg Alsace midfielder admitted in September that he had nonetheless been in two minds regarding a departure. "Sincerely, I was between staying and leaving. I've always said I have no problem with staying, especially at a club like Monaco, who are always competing at the top. I have personal expectations and objectives. Maybe a departure wasn't the best thing for me. I am very, very happy to have stayed and to have this status in this team," he said in a press conference, attended by Get French Football News.



https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/youssouf-fofana-if-youre-choosing-between-nottingham-forest-fulham-and-monaco-naturally-i-stay-at-monaco/

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Domino's troll Chelsea with funny stunt about Premier League goal drought ahead of Fulham clash

Domino's have again mocked Chelsea's Premier League goal drought in a hilarious PR stunt ahead of their clash against Fulham.

The Blues take on their south west London rivals at Craven Cottage on Monday night.


Domino's decided to poke fun at the Blues' goal drought yet again

Chelsea last netted a Premier League goal on August 25, when Nicolas Jackson scored in the 3-0 victory over Luton Town at Stamford Bridge.

Mauricio Pochettino's side have found the back of the net just five times so far, with three of those coming in the win over the Hatters.

Domino's claim to have sold 9,892,022 pizzas and counting, with the stat being displayed on a live tracker outside Craven Cottage ahead of the clash.

The pizza company took to X and joked: "We did the maths – turns out it's worse than we thought." followed by an image showing the figure.

Domino's had previously took aim after Chelsea's 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa on September 24.

They responded to the Blues' X account, formerly Twitter, after Chelsea updated fans about Ollie Watkins' 73rd minute winner.

"We've delivered about 852,609 pizzas since Chelsea last scored a goal," read the comment.

And then wrote the same post on their official account, with it receiving over 4.3 million impressions at the time.

"We need to grow up like a team, not only in an individual way," Pochettino said after the defeat to Villa.

"I think players like Nico (Jackson) who are so young and feeling the Premier League, they need time.

"In this type of game, we are competing and want to win and football is about winning. But also players, when they are young, need to learn, and experience and make mistakes.

"That's why we feel disappointed as there are too many situations like this."

Listen to live commentary of Chelsea's trip to Fulham on Monday live on talkSPORT.



https://talksport.com/football/1586378/

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Player on why he rejected Fulham and Nottingham Forest – Weren't attractive enough for him
Back in the summer window, Youssouf Fofana was said to be a target for both Fulham and Nottingham Forest.

His good season aat AS Monaco had been a reason for him to be heavily linked to a Premier League move, even though he decided to stay at the French club for another year.

Fofana was now interviewed by Canal+, and in quotes relayed by La Diagonale, he talked about the rejecting Fulham and Nottingham Forest.

The midfielder did not hold anything back when talking about those clubs, making it clear that Monaco had been the best option for him.

"I want to go somewhere where I can continue to play for the French national team. And if we take Nottingham Forest, Fulham and AS Monaco, naturally I'll stay at ASM.

"Of course we want to be at the top, that has always been my career plan. Going through stages will never bother me. I have no problem arriving in a large locker room at 30 years old. It's just that I want a career that's linear uphill and downhill when my body won't keep up, but I don't want a zigzag."

Fofana's recent form for Monaco brought his value to its peak, as Transfermarkt currently has it at €25m.

It's clear that another good year for the French side will continue to encourage the attention from Premier League clubs, who can definitely afford that type of operation.

Now with these quotes basically snubbing Fulham and Nottingham Forest, it's hard to imagine the Whites and the Tricky Trees even considering making new attempts for him in the coming windows.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/player-rejected-fulham-nottingham-forest-werent-attractive-enough/

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Chelsea journalist predicts starting Xl for Fulham with interesting choice up top
Chelsea are making the very short trip next door to play Fulham in the Premier League this evening as they search for a badly needed win in the league.

Fulham will present a tough opponent for sure, but Chelsea will fancy themselves after beating Brighton in the League Cup last week. But it's so important that they get a win tonight.

There are some very big selection choices that Mauricio Pochettino will be pondering right now, with the main one being at right back and up top.

Nicolas Jackson is out suspended and so is Malo Gusto, with Reece James also injured. Armando Broja has only recently got back from a long-term injury and there are doubts whether he is ready to start a match yet.

So The Evening Standard's Nizaar Kinsella believes that Raheem Sterling will start up top, with Marc Cucurella keeping his place at right back.

Predicted Chelsea XI: Sanchez; Disasi, Thiago Silva, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Gallagher; Palmer, Enzo, Mudryk; Sterling.



https://www.chelsea-news.co/2023/10/chelsea-journalist-predicts-starting-xl-for-fulham-with-interesting-choice-up-top/