Crystal Palace return to action on Wednesday evening when they travel to Craven Cottage for a Carabao Cup London derby against Fulham, with kick-off scheduled for 19:45 GMT.
Fulham manager Álvaro Arbeloa believes Palace’s recent run should have little influence on the outcome of a single-match cup contest. The Eagles are without a victory in their last four matches in all competitions, but they have won on each of their past four visits to Fulham in all competitions.
Arbeloa expects Palace to view the fixture as an opportunity to reach the next round and warned that his team will face a difficult challenge. Fulham have enjoyed a change in league form, winning their last two Premier League matches after failing to win any of their opening six, but the Spaniard does not expect that contrast to decide Wednesday’s game.
The Fulham boss also indicated that the competition is a major priority for the hosts. Despite the short turnaround between fixtures, he intends to select the strongest team available, describing the tie as an important chance to move closer to a final. Fulham are also seeking to respond after Palace defeated them several weeks ago.
Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney highlighted his side’s poor home record against Palace compared with their strong results away from Selhurst Park. He specifically recalled the FA Cup quarter-final defeat and said Fulham must improve at Craven Cottage.
Fulham will be without left-back Ryan Sessegnon, who is due to serve the second match of a three-game domestic suspension. Emile Smith Rowe missed Saturday’s victory at Coventry City and his availability for the Palace tie remains uncertain.
