Fulham vs Chelsea Preview: Blues Struggle with Physical Play, The Cottagers Fearless Against the Blues

At 03:30 on January 8th Beijing time, the 21st round of the Premier League will see a London derby with Fulham playing at home against Chelsea.

Key highlights for the Fulham vs Chelsea match are as follows:

First:Team StatusAfter 20 Premier League matches, Fulham holds 8 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses with 28 points, ranking 11th and only 3 points off the Champions League places; Chelsea has 8 wins, 5 draws, and 7 losses, totaling 31 points and placed fifth. In the last Premier League round, Fulham drew 2-2 at home against Liverpool, remaining unbeaten in their last 5 league games with 3 wins and 2 draws; Chelsea drew 1-1 away at Manchester City, with Enzo scoring a crucial rebound goal. Chelsea has managed only 1 win in their last 8 matches, Marreaux was dismissed, and the new coach, Rossignol from Strasbourg in Ligue 1, has taken over.

Second:Blues Struggle with Physical Battles, Cottagers Unafraid of the BluesChelsea actually finds it difficult to compete against physically strong teams, especially those who play aggressively or somewhat "dirty." Fulham is very combative and has the advantage of playing at home, making it tough for Chelsea to secure all three points on the road. Fulham’s recent form is stable and better than Chelsea’s; combined with home advantage and a playing style that counters Chelsea’s, Fulham is favored to remain unbeaten at home in this match.

In the last 6 encounters between the two sides, Fulham has 1 win and 5 losses, showing a disadvantage.

Injury and Suspension Updates: Fulham hasMounié, Sessègnon, Tate, Josh King; Chelsea hasCornet, Essugo, Rabiot, Cucurella (doubtful), Fofana (doubtful), Sánchez (doubtful).