Fulham head to Turf Moor on Saturday seeking a response after back-to-back Premier League defeats, but Marco Silva’s latest Fulham injury news has created fresh complications for the Cottagers’ defensive plans. With the side slipping to 15th after a dramatic 5–4 loss to Manchester City and a late 2–1 defeat to Crystal Palace, the pressure is growing to steady the season — especially away from home.
Harry Wilson’s brilliant strike against Palace appeared to salvage a point, only for Marc Guehi’s 87th-minute header to condemn Fulham to their third defeat in five matches. Now, as Silva prepares for a reunion with former Fulham boss Scott Parker, the biggest concerns involve his options at left-back.
Sessegnon ruled out as injury concerns persist
The most immediate blow from Silva’s injury update is the confirmation that Ryan Sessegnon will miss the trip to Burnley. The former Tottenham full-back has stepped into the role during Antonee Robinson’s absence, but a minor hamstring issue saw him miss the defeat to Palace — and he has not recovered in time.
“He is going to be out of the game,” Silva said. “We have to see day by day how he’s going to react. It’s not something very serious. He felt something really minor… but because of his history with injuries, we have to be more careful.”
Silva’s cautious tone reflects the club’s long-term approach with Sessegnon. Having faced repeated injury setbacks over recent seasons, both Fulham and the player are wary of rushing any return — especially with the congested winter period looming.
Robinson edging closer to return after long layoff
The more encouraging piece of Fulham injury news concerns Antonee Robinson. The US international has made only three league appearances this season following summer knee surgery and a subsequent setback. But Silva confirmed that Robinson is now “progressing well” and back in full training.
“He is training with the team, he is doing well. Now it is a matter of time when we decide if he is in contention. Last week was good for him individually, and this week he has been with the team again. Another session tomorrow, then we will decide.”
Even with Robinson close, Timothy Castagne is expected to continue at left-back this weekend. Castagne has been one of Fulham’s more dependable performers in recent weeks, though his natural tendency to drift centrally changes the team’s attacking balance compared to Robinson’s direct overlapping style.
Fulham’s left-side instability is the real issue
In our view, the biggest tactical consequence of this injury situation isn’t about personnel alone — it’s about balance. Without Robinson, Fulham lose their most dynamic outlet in wide build-up phases. Without Sessegnon, they lose the only like-for-like replacement capable of stretching opposition lines. Although Castagne is reliable, he shifts inside more frequently, which reduces natural width and impacts the way Fulham transition.
Although some fans are concerned about the defensive record, the nuance here is important: Fulham’s left-back instability has forced Silva to alter pressing triggers and possession structures. That ripple effect impacts the whole team, not just the back four.
From my experience covering Silva’s sides, he heavily relies on full-backs for pattern progression. When both profiles are unavailable or limited, Fulham’s entire build-up rhythm suffers — which is why their recent form feels more chaotic than earlier months.
This weekend will test Fulham’s adaptability
Burnley are unpredictable under Scott Parker, and they will target the left flank aggressively knowing Fulham’s vulnerabilities. That places added responsibility on Castagne and the midfield pivot to protect transitions and compensate for the lack of natural width. It may force Silva into a more conservative tactical plan than usual.
Key Insights
- Ryan Sessegnon will miss the Burnley match with a hamstring issue.
- Antonee Robinson is close to returning but remains a late decision.
- Timothy Castagne is expected to retain his place at left-back.
- Fulham have suffered three defeats in five and sit 15th.
- Left-back instability is affecting Fulham’s attacking and defensive structure.
What’s Next
Fulham travel to Turf Moor on Saturday aiming to halt a two-game losing streak. If Robinson is declared fit, he may feature from the bench, but Silva is unlikely to take risks. A win would relieve growing pressure and offer momentum heading into the festive period.
👉 Fulham fans — which left-back should Silva trust once everyone is fit: Robinson or Sessegnon?
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