Clashes between these two city rivals are always difficult, regardless of current form and standings of the teams. The last four games between them in the Premier League have ended in a draw, and the last seven were under 2.5 goals.
The performance as a guest of Chelsea is not very good after the team lost their last three away games. Yet in this London meeting there is not a long trip for the guests and can not be viewed solely as a visit. In all cases, the blue will look for victory over Fulham who have won only once this derby of 23 meetings.
For hosts the squad problems are associated with the absence of Damien Duff, who will miss the clash against his former club due to injury. Another former player of the blues, Steve Sidwell is suspended and also misses the opportunity to face his former teammates.
Chelsea had a tight schedule lately but rotating tactics of Rafa Benitez seeks to always maintain a fresh and efficient staff whose main goal is to get in the top four. Experienced John Terry and Frank Lampard are expected to return after not being used by Benitez in Sunday's semi-final clash in the FA Cup.
Fulham occupies the comfortable 10. position in the table but Martin Jol would love get out at least a point from their opponent. With Berbatov in the squad anything is possible.
The last game between the two teams ended in a scoreless draw.