Chelsea host Fulham in a west London derby on Boxing Day as both teams look to regain momentum after disappointing draws.
But Chelsea are unbeaten in eight Premier League games and Fulham are five unbeaten.
WATCH — Chelsea v Fulham
Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea were held at Everton on Sunday in a 0-0 draw, with the Blues failing to break down the Toffees. Their attacking talents have rarely faltered this season so that result seemed more like a blip than anything else. Cole Palmer and Co. are still exceeding expectations and Chelsea are well in the title race. Even if Maresca says they aren’t.
Fulham are in the top four hunt, which is remarkable, but Marco Silva’s side dropped two points on Sunday as they drew 0-0 at home to Southampton. Alex Iwobi, Harry Wilson and Adama Traore all came close but Fulham just didn’t have the zip and aggression they’ve shown for most of this season. Still, they’re having a fine campaign and are right in the European hunt.
How to watch Chelsea vs Fulham live, stream link and start time
Kick off time: 10am ET Thursday (December 26)
Venue: Stamford Bridge — London
TV Channel: Peacock
Streaming: Watch live on Peacock
Chelsea team news, focus
Chelsea’s defensive injuries have continued with Colwill, Cucurella, Gusto and Tosin all set to start. Lavia is a doubt, so Caicedo and Fernandez could start in the deeper roles with four of Nkunku, Felix, Neto, Palmer, Jackson, Madueke and Sancho starting ahead of them.
OUT: Mykhailo Mudryk (suspension), Reece James (hamstring), Wesley Fofana (hamstring), Benoit Badiashile (undisclosed), Omari Kellyman (thigh) | QUESTIONABLE: Romeo Lavia (undisclosed)
Fulham team news, focus
The Cottagers have some injury problems piling up, especially in midfield. Lukic, Smith Rowe and Berge are all struggling but Pereira should come straight back in. Jimenez and Traore could start to freshen up their attack.
OUT: Harrison Reed (knee), Reiss Nelson (hamstring), Kenny Tete (knee) | QUESTIONABLE: Sasa Lukic (shoulder), Emile Smith Rowe (small leg injury), Sander Berge (ankle)
Chelsea vs Fulham prediction
This feels like it will be a very entertaining game with both teams better when pressing high. Chelsea’s extra quality in attack should make the difference in a thriller. Chelsea 4-2 Fulham.
