Fulham boss Roy Hodgson will have to check on the fitness of several key players before naming his team to take on Manchester City on Sunday.
Welsh midfielder Simon Davies missed Thursday’s dramatic draw with Roma with a foot injury but could make the squad for the trip to Eastlands as his rehabilitation is progressing well.
Captain Danny Murphy has been ruled out for three weeks with a knee injury whilst fellow central midfielder Dickson Etuhu isn’t expected to play because of a knee complaint. Andy Johnson remains around a week away from full fitness due to shoulder and groin problems, whilst South African Kagisho serves the second game of his three-match ban after being sent off at West Ham.
Chris Baird and Jonathan Greening are expected to continue their partnership in central midfield whilst Diomansy Kamara should play alongside Bobby Zamora once again in the absence of Johnson.
Our squad is showing signs of strength in depth which is pleaseing. Greening had by far his best game for us (IMO) on Thursday and Baird is solid. I also like the way Riise wanted to take play on at pace. We often, appear at least, to be measured and at sometime slow in attack.
Nevalnd could be a surprise choice on Sunday. It was also good to see Dempsey get a rest.
As for Davies it would be good to see him on the bench.
My only worry for Sunday is really how will I cope? I have obtained two tickets in corporate hospitality at Citeh on Sunday. I have to arrive at 1pm for a 4 course lunch. 3 games in 6 days, I am am getting quite tired!!!
COYSW