Fulham manager Marco Silva hopes his side can capitalise on any potential nerves and anxiety that could spread around the Emirates Stadium during Saturday’s visit to Premier League leaders Arsenal.
The Gunners are currently in pursuit of their first Premier League title in 22 years, and sit three points clear at the top of the table, having played a game more than closest rivals Manchester City.
Fulham manager Silva, whose 10th-placed side harbour their own ambitions of European qualification, vowed his team would battle fiercely to secure a shock result amid what he anticipates could be a tense atmosphere in north London.
“Let’s hope we can use that,” Silva stated during a 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.”
There has been an edgy atmosphere at the Emirates in recent times, with Arsenal losing to Bournemouth just under three weeks ago before picking up an unconvincing 1-0 win over Newcastle last weekend.
Despite their recent struggles with finding their best form, Silva is still expecting a formidable challenge as he acknowledged Arsenal’s quality.
“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.”
Nevertheless, 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.”
