Fulham head coach Alvaro Arbeloa is weighing up whether to risk vice-captain Antonee Robinson for Saturday's Championship-defining trip to Portman Ipswich, after the American full-back suffered an ankle issue in training this week.
Fulham arrive at the fixture having managed just two points from five league outings since Arbeloa took the reins, leaving the club searching for a first victory of the campaign. The pressure is mounting, and the Spaniard knows a positive result against Ipswich would go a long way toward settling nerves both inside and outside the dressing room.
Robinson's potential absence, or at least a reduced role, would be a blow given how central he has become to Arbeloa's tactical setup. The USMNT international has started every single league match since the new manager arrived, operating as a vital attacking outlet in Fulham's high-pressing, possession-based approach.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Arbeloa admitted he was still uncertain about Robinson's availability just a day before kickoff. "He had some issues with his ankle yesterday, but we will see later, I don't know right now. I have no idea," the coach said. He added that even if Robinson is passed fit, he may not be risked for the full match. "I think he will be available, but I have to make a decision if I think he's ready for 90 minutes or he will just start on the bench. Right now I can't answer," Arbeloa explained.
The uncertainty surrounding Robinson adds another layer of complexity to Fulham's preparations as they look to end their winless run. Losing their first-choice left-back, even temporarily, would disrupt the balance of a system that relies heavily on his overlapping runs and defensive discipline.
There was better news elsewhere in Arbeloa's squad update. Dutch defender Kenny Tete is back in contention after sitting out the 1-1 draw with Manchester United while undergoing the Premier League's mandatory concussion protocols. His return gives Arbeloa added depth and flexibility across the back line heading into the weekend.
Midfielder Tom Cairney, however, remains a doubt despite his return to full training. The 34-year-old has been working his way back from a knee problem that required a minor surgical procedure earlier in August, and Arbeloa suggested a recall this weekend might come too soon for the experienced playmaker.
Despite the uncertainty over individual players, Arbeloa struck an optimistic tone about the overall health of his squad heading into the international break's aftermath. "We are very happy because everyone is back and fit. At the moment, everyone is available for tomorrow. (Kenny) Tete is much better. We are so happy to have Tom Cairney back, but maybe a little too soon for him," he said.
Fulham will be desperate to convert that improved fitness picture into points when they face Ipswich. With the team still searching for rhythm under its new management, a win at Portman Road could prove a turning point in a season that has so far failed to live up to expectations. Arbeloa's final team selection, particularly regarding Robinson's involvement, is expected to be confirmed closer to kickoff as the club assesses the extent of his ankle problem.
Based on reporting from Standard Sport (Football).