PL Predictions: Chelsea to make statement at Fulham on MNF

Fulham vs Chelsea, Monday 8pm, live on Sky SportsChelsea have appointed a manager in Xabi Alonso with a proper, recognisable football philosophy rather than another coach who will simply try to get the best out of the existing squad. His work at Bayer Leverkusen shows the real Alonso and he can be forgiven for being swallowed up by the Real Madrid circus. To get the Blues competitive in a season when they have the advantage of no extra games is hardly an impossible task. They could even emerge as Arsenal's closest challengers. If that is to be the case, then winning away at a Fulham side now shrouded in uncertainty over their future would be a significant step. Marco Silva provided tactical clarity, Premier League know-how and, at the very least, the security of consistent mid-table finish