The final West London derby of the interim era is set for Wednesday night as Fulham host Chelsea at Craven Cottage, with both sides grappling with significant injury and availability concerns ahead of the Premier League clash.
Squad Challenges for Both Sides
This match marks Calum McFarlane's last game in temporary charge of Chelsea, following the official appointment of Liam Rosenior as the club's new permanent manager. The Blues arrive off the back of a creditable draw with Manchester City, while Marco Silva's Fulham have climbed to 11th place after a four-match unbeaten run, which included snatching a late point against Liverpool.
The build-up, however, is dominated by team news, with a combined total of seven players definitively ruled out and a further five considered major doubts for the fixture.
Fulham's Team News: Absences and Doubts
The Cottagers will be without striker Rodrigo Muniz until February. Manager Silva recently stated the Brazilian is "getting better" and doing individual work, but his return is not imminent.
Fulham are also impacted by the African Cup of Nations, losing Calvin Bassey, Samuel Chukwueze, and Alex Iwobi to international duty.
There are significant doubts over two more players. Joshua King is struggling with a knee issue and is not expected back for about a week, while Kenny Tete felt a hamstring problem on New Year's Day, making him "very tight" for this match.
On a positive note, Silva confirmed that Ryan Sessegnon is likely to be ready and in contention for selection.
Chelsea's Injury List Mounts
Chelsea's interim boss Calum McFarlane provided updates on several players after a training session. Defender Marc Cucurella is a doubt, with McFarlane stating a call would be made after assessing the squad. The same uncertain status applies to Wesley Fofana and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, who were both due for checks.
The Blues have confirmed long-term absentees. Midfielder Romeo Lavia is out with a hamstring issue and not expected back until early January, while defender Levi Colwill is out for the season after undergoing ACL surgery in August.
Youngster Dario Essugo is also sidelined but is likely to return this month. Additionally, Mykhailo Mudryk is unavailable due to suspension following an Anti-Doping Rule Violation charge from The FA.
Implications for the Derby
The extensive list of absentees and fitness concerns for both teams is sure to influence tactics and team selection for this pivotal local clash. With Fulham in good form and Chelsea seeking stability under their incoming manager, the derby promises high tension, albeit with squads stretched thin. The depth of each roster will be tested as they compete for crucial points and local bragging rights at Craven Cottage.
