Chelsea vs Fulham tips and predictions: Home comforts count in West London derby?

Chelsea state of play

Chelsea approach Saturday’s early kick-off with Fulham full of confidence after sweeping aside West Ham away, though Marco Silva’s men will offer sterner resistance.

After their 5-1 mauling of the Hammers last time out, the high-scoring Blues looked impressive, even without Cole Palmer, who withdrew from the game after sustaining an injury in the warm-up.

Want more? Get live Premier League match odds and bookmaker welcome bonuses

In the end, Chelsea’s attack clicked in devastating fashion. Now, the title contenders will be hoping to see off Fulham for the 13th time in 21 Premier League meetings. 

An encounter with their west London neighbours offers the Club World Cup champions the perfect chance to secure their first home win of the campaign, following the opening-day 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace.

Fulham state of play 

Under Marco Silva, Fulham have proved to be a tough nut to crack at times. After finishing 11th last season, the Cottagers are now in their fourth consecutive campaign in the Premier League.

Alongside their defensive solidity and battling qualities, the Cottagers also managed to score in 27 of their 38 league games last season. 

READ: Premier League matchweek 3 betting tips and predictions

Despite a distinct lack of transfer business, with only goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte signed from Montpellier, Silva’s well-drilled side still possessed a number of threats.

In Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United at Craven Cottage, a key man in the shape of Alex Iwobi provided Emile Smith Rowe with an assist.

Having also fought back late against Brighton in their season opener, Marco Silva’s resilient troops are capable of making things difficult for the Blues.

Key talking point: Chelsea’s attacking players to take centre stage? 

Chelsea boast an abundance of attacking options following another busy summer of transfer activity at Stamford Bridge. The Blues have already spent around £236 million, with more arrivals anticipated.

Cole Palmer remains the focal point of Enzo Maresca’s side but he could miss the game, although his groin injury isn’t as serious as first feared. 

Read: How are football margins and probabilities calculated?

However, a new Brazilian talent is emerging. Estevao, an 18-year-old the home faithful will be desperate to see in action, stepped in for Palmer and sparkled at the London Stadium.

Alongside the former Palmeiras teenager, Chelsea have some other potential game-changers, including Pedro Neto, plus summer signings Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, and Joao Pedro. 

Enzo Maresca is spoilt for choice in attacking areas, but they have to perform in front of an expectant home crowd. They’re clearly capable, but Fulham won’t make it easy for them. 

FIRST’s top tip for Chelsea vs Fulham 

Historically, clashes between the two aren’t full of goals. In fact, in their last 11 meetings, under 3.5 goals have been scored. The same could materialise, although I expect Chelsea to edge it.

Pick: Chelsea to win and under 3.5 goals - 13/10 with Ladbrokes 

Extra tips 

While Fulham are an organised unit with goals in them, the Blues will surely have too much for Marco Silva’s side. Backing the home team to win without conceding is also tempting here. 

Pick: Home team win to nil - 8/5 with Betway

After becoming the youngest player to register a Premier League assist for Chelsea at just 18 years and 120 days old, Estevao to go one better and score his first goal for the club represents great value.

Pick: Estevao to score anytime - 5/2 with BetMGM

Team news

Cole Palmer’s groin injury could see the Chelsea star miss the clash, while Levi Colwill is out for the foreseeable future with an ACL injury. 

Chelsea’s Benoit Badiashile, Romeo Lavia, and Wesley Fofana have also been ruled out. Mykhailo Mudryk is unavailable after being charged by the FA with a doping offence.

As for the visitors, Antonee Robinson is nearly back to full fitness after a serious knee injury and he could start after coming on against Manchester United. 

Chelsea vs Fulham predicted line-ups

Chelsea: Sanchez; James, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandes, Caicedo; Neto, Pedro, Estevao; Delap (4-2-3-1)

Fulham: Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson; Berge, Lukic; Wilson, Smith Rowe, Iwobi; Muniz. (4-2-3-1) 

Form guide (including friendlies) 

Chelsea: LWWWWWWWDW

Fulham: WLLWLWWWDDW

Responsible gambling with FIRST

You must be 18+ to gamble. Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. Our tips and advice help you enjoy gambling, but there is always a chance a bet or casino game can lose.

Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Stop betting if you are angry, emotional or under the influence of alcohol.

Warning signs of problem gambling: chasing losses, betting money needed for bills, or feeling unable to stop.

Need help? Visit our responsible sports betting page or our responsible casino gambling page, or contact the support organisations listed below if you're struggling to control your gambling:

Gamblers Anonymous UK

BeGambleAware

GAMSTOP

National Gambling Support Network

Gamcare

NHS National Gambling Clinic

Odds correct at the time of writing.