Overview
Chelsea's eight-game winning streak was ended by a disappointing goalless draw against Everton. The Blues dominated the game, controlling 75% of the ball and attempting 12 shots, but were completely helpless against the Goodison Park defence.
This draw caused coach Enzo Maresca's team to be widened to 4 points by Premier League leaders Liverpool before round 18.
Therefore, The Blues need to beat Fulham if they do not want to be left behind by Liverpool in the championship race. Although rated higher, the team at Stamford Bridge promises to face many difficulties. Coach Marco Silva's team has often played well against the "big guys" this season.
In the last 5 rounds of the Premier League, Fulham are unbeaten with 4/5 matches ending in draws. However, the home team at Craven Cottage received much praise when 3 out of 4 teams they held were Tottenham, Arsenal and Liverpool.
Fulham accepted to give up the game to their opponents, but every time they had an opportunity to attack, they took full advantage and scored a total of 4 goals in the above matches.
The Craven Cottage side head into the London derby in ninth place in the Premier League table, just three points behind fifth-placed Bournemouth.
In terms of head-to-head record, Fulham have only won one of their last 25 meetings with Chelsea in all competitions. The Blues won all of their Premier League games against Fulham last season, keeping a clean sheet in both.
Human resources situation
After serving a one-match suspension over the weekend, defender Marc Cucurella is expected to return to Chelsea's starting line-up on Boxing Day.
Fulham will also welcome back one of their key players, with midfielder Andreas Pereira set to feature after being forced to sit out the game against Southampton.
Expected lineup:
Chelsea: Sanchez, Gusto, Adarabioyo, Colwill, Cucurella, Caicedo, Enzo, Neto, Palmer, Sancho, Jackson.
Fulham: Leno, Castagne, Diop, Bassey, Robinson, Lukic, Berge, Iwobi, Smith Rowe, Pereira, Jimenez.
The match between Chelsea and Fulham takes place at 22:00 on December 26 (Vietnam time).
