Venue: Stamford Bridge
Date: Wednesday, 28 November
Kick-off: 19.45
A midweek derby against Fulham that sees Martin Jol and Rafa Benitez in opposing dugouts, we’re in for an ugly night!
We may have looked tighter defensively against City at the weekend but offered no more going forward and after 5 games without a win, we’re putting ourselves under increasing pressure every week now.
Fulham meanwhile, won’t be wanting to lose three in succession either, so they won’t be coming to roll over tonight.
MANAGERS’ VIEWS
Going into tonight’s game, Benitez says…….nothing of any consequence.
Fulham manager Martin Jol meanwhile, says “I feel it is a must-win game for them. They have to probably win, to have a result, tomorrow otherwise that will be problematic.”
SQUAD NEWS
For Chelsea, John Terry (knee), Frank Lampard (calf) and Daniel Sturridge (hamstring) all remain out although Gary Cahill has recovered from illness that kept him on the bench Sunday.
For Fulham, Alex Kacaniklic, Bryan Ruiz, Kieran Richardson (all hamstring) and Simon Davies (hip) are all missing the through injury. Brede Hangeland is banned although Kerim Frei is available after a loan spell at Cardiff.
TEAMS
CHELSEA (Possible line-up): Cech; Azpilicueta, Cahill, Luiz, Cole; Mikel, Ramires; Oscar, Hazard, Moses; Torres
FULHAM (Possible line-up): Schwarzer; Riether, Senderos, Hughes, Riise; Sidwell, Baird, Duff, Rodallega; Petric, Berbatov
LAST SEASON
Chelsea 1-1 Fulham (26th December 2011)
PREDICTION
Fulham haven’t beaten us in the last 32 league and cup meetings in a run stretching over 33 years, but then the last 3 have been drawn, so I won’t be expecting anything resembling an exciting return to form from us tonight!
Blue is the colour
