Fulham have been a surprise package so far this season and can make a statement with a win over Aston Villa this weekend.
Should the Cottagers pick up all three points, they will go level with their opponents in the standings.
Craven Cottage will host a special occasion for head coach Marco Silva as well, his 150th match in charge of Fulham.
There have been plenty of ups and downs during his reign, but they are now in a stable period and are capable of beating any team on their day.
Before the international break, Fulham gave Manchester City a run for their money, faltering only due to some poor finishing.
But it is business as usual for Silva, who wants to get his club to the top.
Marco has arrived for his pre-#FULAVL presser. 🧵 pic.twitter.com/NczDlwrzgL
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) October 18, 2024
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, he said: “The ambitions, they are at the top. It’s just a number, its another game for me.
“The only thing I’m looking for is three points tomorrow. The ambition for the future is the same, keep working with a great group players and keep making the fans proud.
“That’s the main thing for me if we go in this direction we will be in a better place and make the club grow.”
Team news
Away from Silva’s celebration, the Portuguese coach provided some team news ahead of the weekend’s action.
He added: “Sasa Lukic is going to be out, unfortunately.
“Mixed feelings on the break, some players were able to keep momentum, play minutes and contribute, like Wilson, Andreas and Raul, and sadly some came back with injuries.
“Timo also came back with a problem in his hamstring, they will be out for sure.
“We are happy for him. We always believed in him. He didn’t start the season in the starting XI but he never gave up in training, never stopped trying, and now he’s helping the team win football matches.”
