Fulham vs Chelsea: 3 things to look out for

Massive Team Changes

Chelsea’s misfortunes in terms of injuries and player availability unfortunately continue. The Blues will be without Nicolas Jackson as aforementioned, along with Malo Gusto who is serving a red card suspension. Not to mention Ben Chilwell who picked up an injury in the Blues’ last outing against Brighton. As a result, Pochettino will have to make some much-needed changes to the squad and especially at the fullback positions, with the absence of Chilwell and Gusto. Marc Cucurella could feature as a makeshift right back once again as he did against the Seagulls and Ian Maatsen could also revert to playing in his natural left back role. Another option for Pochettino is to remain in favor of playing his three centre backs in Disasi, Colwill and Thiago Silva with Colwill at left-back.

In midfield, the usual culprits are available in Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Conor Gallagher. However, a change will need to be made to accommodate the emergence of Cole Palmer in the attacking midfield role. The young U21 England international had his first start for the Blues last game against Brighton and provided the game winning assist for Nicolas Jackson’s goal. Palmer brings the side a much-needed creative spark that has not been seen since Joao Felix’s time on loan. Playing him behind Armando Broja, along with Mykhailo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling on the flanks will hopefully be enough for Chelsea to find the net.