Fulham manager Marco Silva is confident his team can exploit any anxiety and tension that may sweep through the Emirates Stadium during Saturday's Premier League encounter against leaders Arsenal. The Gunners are chasing their first league title in 22 years, sitting three points clear at the summit but having played one more game than second-placed Manchester City.
Silva Aims to Capitalise on Tense Atmosphere
Silva, whose 10th-placed Fulham still harbour ambitions of European qualification, vowed his side would battle fiercely to secure a shock result amid what he anticipates could be a nervy atmosphere in north London.
"Let's hope we can use that," Silva said in his pre-match press conference, referring to the potential for tension. "That depends on us, it depends on them, and it depends on many things. Whether the environment is tense or not depends on how we play and whether we are good enough to make it happen. Simple as that."
Recent Signs of Edginess at the Emirates
There has been an edgy feel at the Emirates in recent weeks, with Arsenal losing to Bournemouth just under three weeks ago before scraping an unconvincing 1-0 win over Newcastle last weekend. Despite their recent struggles, Silva expects a formidable challenge from a side he regards as the league's most solid.
"Arsenal are a top side, a side that are title contenders, that play to win all of their games, but are also the most solid team in the league," he said. "They are a team that, even if they are not playing at their best level, they have other ways to punish the opposition."
Fulham's Determination to Fight for Three Points
The Portuguese coach was resolute that his team would not be intimidated by the task at hand. "We just have to look at ourselves and be competitive to fight for the three points. Three points to fight for – and we will fight."
