Ahead of Fulham’s Boxing Day clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Fulham head coach, Marco Silva spoke on Adarabioyo’s importance to his side before making the move to Chelsea during the summer.
The Manchester City academy product moved to Fulham prior to the 2020-21 season and he played 132 games for the London club in his four seasons there.
Adarabioyo however failed to renew his contract after its expiry, as he received interest from various top clubs in England including Newcastle, Manchester United and Chelsea. He eventually chose the West London outfit, becoming Maresca’s first signing, and citing his belief in the project and the chance to work with Maresca again as his reasons for the decision.
Since moving to Chelsea, Adarabioyo has consistently played in the European conference league, however, he has yet to establish a starting spot in the premier league despite Maresca insisting that the defender is a helpful presence off the pitch.
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Nonetheless, with the recent injuries to key players such as Reece James, Wesley Fofana, and Benoit Badiashile, Adarabioyo is starting to get game time in the premier league and he is once again set to start against his former side on a Boxing Day derby clash.
Speaking to the press prior to the game, Silva appreciated the impact of Adarabioyo while he was at Fulham: “He was so important in three seasons with us. I think he did improve really and it’s nice to see him,” he said. “It’s going to be nice to see him there of course during the game, he’s going to try to win, we’re going to try to win as well,” the gaffer added.
Adarabioyo will be hoping to continue his good form in an attempt to stamp his foot as a consistent starter in the Chelsea back line. He has started the last two premier league games and “The Blues” have only conceded one goal in those games.
He was particularly pivotal in Chelsea claiming a clean sheet at Goodison Park for the first time since 2022 and for only the second time in six years, as he blocked a goal-bound shot from Iliaman Ndiaye in the 78th minute of the game.
Chelsea will need to be wary of Iwobi’s threat if they are to get all three points in the derby clash. The Super Eagles midfielder has netted five times this season and he will be fired up to continue his impressive form against the home team.
Meanwhile, “The Blues” will be desperate for victory following their frustrating draw at Goodison Park. A win will ensure their unbeaten streak remains intact and they are able to establish a larger gap between themselves and teams outside the top four.
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