The Daily Star Ireland
Chelsea are currently on an impressive run, having won eight consecutive matches across all competitions. Ahead of their Sunday match against Everton, the Blues are in strong form, particularly after their dominant 5-1 victory over Shamrock Rovers, which concluded their European league stage. Chelsea’s Premier League performance is equally strong, with the club sitting in second place, just two points behind Liverpool as the mid-season break approaches. Their recent Premier League wins include a 5-1 triumph at Southampton and a 4-3 victory at Tottenham.
Fulham, in contrast, currently holds eighth place in the Premier League and is preparing to face Southampton, who are at the bottom of the table. The Cottagers have managed an unbeaten streak of four games, with one win and three draws, including notable draws against top clubs Arsenal and Liverpool. Fulham has been solid on the road this season, losing only two out of their eight away matches.
Chelsea will be missing key players such as defenders James and Fofana, as well as young striker Kellyman. Additionally, forward Mudryk is suspended following a positive doping test. However, there is some good news with the return of left-back Cucurella, who missed the last match due to suspension. Chelsea’s top scorer in the Premier League is Palmer, with 11 goals, followed by Jackson with 9.
Fulham, on the other hand, is dealing with injuries to several players, including central defender Andersen, midfielder Reed, and winger Nelson. Despite this, Iwobi and Jimenez, each with five goals, have been pivotal in leading Fulham, although Jimenez has struggled to score in the Premier League over the past two months. Midfielder Smith Rowe, with three goals, has also been influential.
Prediction
Chelsea has an excellent home record, winning 13 out of their last 17 matches at home, including a victory against Fulham earlier this year. Fulham, in comparison, has struggled away from home, earning points in just five of their last 17 trips.
Prediction: Chelsea 5 – 1 Fulham.
