Chelsea vs Fulham: Willian makes promise to fans ahead of Stamford Bridge return | Football
Willian has promised not to celebrate if he scores against Fulham Chelsea as he plays at Stamford Bridge for the first time in two years.
The Cottagers travel to the Blues on Friday night, just three weeks after the last West London derby, which Marco Silva’s side won 2-1.
Veteran winger Willian scored the opening goal in that game but refused to celebrate against his former club Chelsea after spending seven trophy-filled years there.
The former Brazil international scored 63 goals and provided 62 assists in 339 games for the Blues and won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League.
Three years after leaving the club, Willian still harbors great affection for them and is excited to return to the bridge – but hopes his new side will be victorious again.
“I was on the bench when I was there at Arsenal so tomorrow will be my first game in two years,” the 34-year-old told Fulhamfc.com.
“It’s a special game. Against Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, it’s always special to play against a side like that.
“And it’s going to be a very special game for me too because I’ve played for them for seven years, so I have a lot of respect for them and the people who also work for the club.
“It will do me good. I have good memories there, I played bridge for many years and tomorrow will be a very special evening for me.
“That’s why I didn’t celebrate when I scored against them [at Craven Cottage], and when I meet again tomorrow it will be the same. I won’t celebrate because I have great respect for all of them.
Fulham have exceeded expectations since returning to the top flight and are currently seventh in the table, two points ahead of Chelsea but have played a game more.
Willian has a big part in that success, although his two goals and three assists don’t really do justice to his performance.
He was also reunited with former Arsenal team-mate Cedric Soares, who joined Craven Cottage on loan on deadline day and could make his Fulham debut on Friday.
,He is a nice guy! I spent a year with him at Arsenal,” Willian added.
“He’s a great man and he’s here to help us, so I’m looking forward to doing that all together.”
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