Rene Meulentseen will make his Fulham managerial debut tonight, following the sacking of Martin Jol. The Dutchman joined the Cottagers in November in a head coach role, supporting then manager Jol. Five consecutive defeats meant Jol was removed from his tenure last Sunday, with Meulensteen instated as manager immediately.
In terms of form, Fulham are suffering. With only 3 wins the season, the London side find themselves in the relegation zone. Their last win came in October, after which they embarked on a run of five consecutive defeats, the most recent being a 3-0 defeat to the hands of West Ham, in which they failed to register a single shot on target.
Tottenham have hardly enjoyed the best of form either. Averaging less than a goal a game in the Premier League this season, the Lilywhites have picked up only 8 points from a total 18 in the last 6 games. Tottenham have at least attempted to respond to the 6-0 thrashing at the hands of Manchester City, by registering a 2-2 draw at home to Manchester United.
Fulham will be without defenders Brede Hangeland and Matthew Briggs, although the former is facing a late fitness test. Hugo Rodellega is to remain sidelined for a couple of weeks after picking up a groin injury, whilst ex-Spur Dimitar Berbatov may face his old side if he is cleared today after illness.
Tottenham strikers Harry Kane and Emmanuel Adebayor will play any part after suffering back and knee injuries respectively. Midfielder Christian Eriksen is not expected back for at least 2 weeks after injuring his ankle last month. Long term absentee Danny Rose remains sidelined with a foot injury.