Chelsea vs Fulham : Lineups and LIVE updates | Blogosm
After a frenzied climax to the January transfer window for Chelsea, they welcome high-flying Fulham to Stamford Bridge in search of a much-needed win
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The Premier League action this weekend kicks off with the West London derby as Chelsea welcomes Fulham to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea's transfer activities during the recent January transfer window were anything but thrifty. Heads are spinning in the offices of every top club in Europe as a result of the American owners of the Blues' high-profile, high-paying signings, lengthy contracts, and staggering spending levels.
The Blues spent more than £300 million on players during the winter transfer window, which culminated in the Premier League record acquisition of 2022 World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez from Benfica for £115 million in the waning minutes before the deadline.
There were also Mykhailo Mudryk ($88.5 million), Benoit Badiashile ($35 million), Noni Madueke ($29 million), and Malo Gusto ($26 million) added. And they are only the significant permanent ones; individuals like Andrey Santos, David Datro Fofana, and Joao Felix are not included in our count (loan).
The same query is asked every time a new player joins: how in the world are Chelsea managing this under FFP's watch?
But returning to the pitch, Graham Potter appeared to be in serious trouble after a run of just one victory in 11 matches played at home.
However, a victory over Crystal Palace and a goalless draw at Anfield in the ensuing weeks seemed to have reduced the manager's pressure, but this is yet another example.
Despite suffering back-to-back Premier League losses, Fulham, who spent a modest £8 million on Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic in January, is still seventh in the standings, two points ahead of their opponents on Friday. Two close 1-0 losses to Spurs and in-form Newcastle United would not have significantly dented their confidence.
The Cottagers are aiming for their first-ever league double over their highly regarded London rivals after defeating the Blues 2-1 in the reverse match in January.
The visitors will be confident in their chances when they travel to Stamford Bridge this Friday because they have performed admirably during this overachieving season and are not under any pressure to play it safe in order to secure crucial points.
