Malbranque blow for Fulham

Midfielder Steed Malbranque has been ruled out of Fulham’s entire Christmas schedule with a hamstring injury.

Papa Bouba Diop (ankle) and striker Collins John (hamstring) are rated 50/50 for the Boxing Day derby against Chelsea.

Skipper Luis Boa Morte is struggling with a knee problem but boss Chris Coleman is confident he will recover in time, while USA defender Carlos Bocanegra (Achilles) is expected to make the bench.

Team (from): Warner, Crossley, Rosenior, Bocanegra, Christanval, Knight, Goma, Pearce, Leacock, Elrich, Legwinski, Diop, Boa Morte, Radzinski, McBride, John, Helguson.