Fulham boss Marco Silva has hinted at a timely selection boost ahead of Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round tie against Cambridge United, with Antonee Robinson in line to make his first start since undergoing minor knee surgery in May.
The USA international has been carefully managed back to fitness, missing Fulham’s opening-day defeat to Brighton before featuring as a substitute against Manchester United and Chelsea. The club opted to rest him completely in Saturday’s west London derby against Brentford, with Silva admitting the plan was always to target this week’s cup tie as part of Robinson’s gradual reintegration.
Robinson, who registered more assists than any other Premier League defender last season, is viewed as a vital outlet on Fulham’s left flank thanks to his pace and energy. His potential return would offer Silva’s side extra balance and attacking thrust as they look to avoid a cup upset at Craven Cottage.
Silva on Robinson’s recovery
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Silva was careful not to overstate Robinson’s readiness but confirmed the left-back is in contention.
“Probably it’s going to be [Robinson] in contention for the game. That was our aim before the Brentford game to give him some more days to keep working on his fitness and all that stuff, his confidence and to be able to try to have as many minutes as he can tomorrow. It’s a chance for him to be involved, yes.” — Marco Silva
Silva added that the decision was not a reaction to any setback but part of a cautious plan. “He needs to be in almost perfect condition because his game comes from his athleticism,” Silva explained.
New signings waiting in the wings
Fulham fans are also eager to see Deadline Day additions Samuel Chukwueze and Jonah Kusi-Asare in action. Chukwueze, the Nigerian winger signed on loan from AC Milan with an option to buy, and Kusi-Asare, an 18-year-old forward from Bayern Munich, are both being eased into the squad.
Silva did not commit to giving them debuts against Cambridge, stressing that while they are ready for more involvement, selection will depend on overall squad balance. “They have to prove their quality as well, and prove they are ready to start games,” he said.
Stats snapshot: Antonee Robinson (2024/25)
| Stat (2024/25) | Antonee Robinson |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 35 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 7 (most by a Premier League defender) |
| Key passes per game | 1.2 |
source: Premier League stats – 2024/25 season
These numbers underline why Robinson’s return is so significant for Fulham. His overlapping runs and deliveries into the box have been central to Silva’s attacking structure.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Robinson’s comeback could not be better timed. “Fulham have looked slightly unbalanced without him. He stretches the pitch, offers an outlet under pressure, and his assist numbers speak for themselves. Against Cambridge, even if he only plays 60 minutes, it’s a vital step in his recovery and a huge lift for the squad.”
Key insights
- Antonee Robinson is likely to feature for Fulham after knee surgery.
- Silva insists the defender’s return is planned, not a reaction to setbacks.
- New signings Chukwueze and Kusi-Asare are pushing for debuts.
- Robinson provided more assists than any other Premier League defender last season.
- Fulham are strong favourites to beat Cambridge at Craven Cottage.
What’s next for Fulham?
Victory over Cambridge would see Fulham progress to the last 16 of the Carabao Cup, a competition where Silva has previously hinted he wants to go deep. After the midweek tie, Fulham return to Premier League action at away to Aston Villa on Sunday, where Robinson’s minutes could again be carefully managed.
The bigger picture is clear: Robinson’s return strengthens Fulham’s push for consistency in the league while adding extra firepower in cup competitions. For Silva, balancing his recovery with the demands of a congested autumn schedule will be key.
👉 Do you think Marco Silva should start Antonee Robinson against Cambridge, or save him for tougher Premier League challenges ahead?
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