Fulham Gears Up for London Derby Against West Ham at Craven Cottage

Fulham is set to return to Premier League action today after the international break, facing West Ham United in their first London derby of the season at Craven Cottage. Manager Marco Silva expressed confidence during his pre-match press conference, asserting that while Joachim Andersen and Sander Berge will be part of the squad, all summer signings will need to earn their place in the starting lineup. Silva stated he would be comfortable fielding an unchanged team for the fourth consecutive league match.

Both Berge and Andersen have played for their national teams during the break, hinting at potential improvements for a Fulham side that has started the season on a shaky note. Berge’s inclusion could bring solidity to a somewhat imbalanced midfield, especially following his promising substitute appearance against Ipswich two weeks ago. The Norwegian presents a more traditional central midfield option compared to Andreas Pereira or Sasa Lukic. Silva, however, remains loyal to Pereira, a former Manchester United player, while Lukic’s consistent performance makes him a core team member.

Introducing Andersen into the defense could mean sidelining Issa Diop, who was Fulham’s standout defender at Portman Road and would relish playing against his former team this afternoon. Meanwhile, West Ham, under new management by Julen Lopetegui, has not yet reached their full potential following substantial summer transfers. Notable additions include Max Kilman from Wolves, Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Manchester United, Guido Rodriguez, Crysencio Summerville, and German striker Niklas Füllkrug. West Ham fans anticipate Cesar Solar’s debut, a recent signing from Paris Saint-Germain.

Returning to Craven Cottage, former Fulham loanee Alphonse Areola is expected to receive a warm welcome after his impactful loan spell in the 2020/2021 season. The French goalkeeper is set to rejoin Lopetegui’s lineup after recovering from a back injury incurred during West Ham’s clash against Manchester City. West Ham’s only league victory this season came from a 2-0 derby win against Crystal Palace, marking their only clean sheet in their last 21 Premier League matches.

Today’s match offers Fulham a chance to secure a third straight league victory over West Ham, reminiscent of their successes in the last season. For Silva’s team, controlling the game tempo will be crucial, especially after some passive performances at Portman Road. Despite West Ham’s low ranking in shots faced this season, their offensive prowess remains significant, with players like Jarrod Bowen and Miguel Antonio posing constant threats.

Today’s encounter is anticipated to be full of excitement, as clashes between Fulham and West Ham traditionally are. Silva’s side aims to fulfill their coach’s ambitions by taking control of this critical match.

Predicted Fulham XI (4-2-3-1 formation): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Andersen, Bassey; Berge, Lukic; Traore, Iwobi, Smith Rowe; Muniz. Substitutes include Benda, Castagne, Sessegnon, Diop, Reed, Cairney, Pereira, Wilson, and Jimenez.