Fulham manager Marco Silva faces a selection headache ahead of Saturday's crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium (17:30 BST), with several key players sidelined.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Silva confirmed that Ryan Sessegnon will miss the next two matches after limping off during last weekend's impressive 1-0 victory over Aston Villa. The injury setback adds to an already crowded treatment room, with Alex Iwobi and Kevin Mbabu also ruled out. There is some positive news, however, as Kenny Tete has returned to training and "maybe in contention," though Saturday's fixture comes "too soon for him to start."
"We have some doubts with some players, but some players probably will be ready," Silva added, keeping his cards close to his chest.
The victory over Villa was a statement win for the Cottagers, who are firmly in the hunt for European football. "It was a well-deserved win for us—another clean sheet," Silva reflected. "We spoke before about how crucial the game was to keep ourselves in the battle in that part of the table. It has been a good week so far; we're preparing well."
When asked what European qualification would mean for Fulham, Silva's eyes lit up. "It's been a long and top journey. We have been changing almost everything. We know clearly the position the club was in before we arrived. We are going to fight for it. If we achieve it, then it will be a great thing for this club. We have been creating platforms and the right spirit. But I don't like talking about ifs. It's a fight. We are in a big fight with many teams for the European places. If we make it, the team will be great."
With his contract expiring in the summer, speculation about Silva's future has been inevitable—especially with links to managerless Chelsea. But the Portuguese boss was unequivocal: "Nothing is going to affect or not affect. It would be a decision that I and the club are going to take together. Many things are there. We are completely on the same page and aligned with what will be necessary for the club for the future. The future of the club is always there."
As for the Chelsea rumors? "I don't pay any attention. Decisive games for us, and all focus will be on Arsenal and what we have to do against them."
With Fulham's European dream alive and well, Silva's side will need to dig deep at the Emirates—and perhaps find some inspiration in their crisp, clean kits as they look to keep their remarkable season rolling.