Silva hopeful of Iwobi’s quick injury recovery

Fulham manager Marco Silva says he remains hopeful Alex Iwobi will return before the end of the season, although the Nigeria international will miss Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Aston Villa after sustaining a hamstring injury, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Iwobi picked up the injury during Fulham’s goalless draw against Brentford last weekend, where he was forced off while chasing the ball and replaced by Samuel Chukwueze.

Speaking on Friday ahead of the lunchtime fixture at Craven Cottage, Silva expressed disappointment at losing the player but indicated there is still hope he could feature again before the campaign concludes.

“Really bad news to lose a player like Alex Iwobi. It’s difficult to say a timescale, but back before the end of the season,” he said.

The setback represents a significant blow for Fulham, with the midfielder set to miss his first Premier League start since returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Iwobi has been a key figure for the club this season, making 27 top-flight appearances, scoring four goals and providing three assists, while playing 2,279 minutes.

Fulham will also be without Kenny Tete and Kevin, who are both sidelined with injuries, although the pair have returned to light training as they continue their recovery.

Iwobi’s absence is expected to prompt changes in midfield, with Sander Berge and Harrison Reed pushing for starting roles ahead of Sasa Lukic and Tom Cairney.

On the flanks, January signing Oscar Bobb and Chukwueze are both options to start on the left, while Harry Wilson is likely to continue on the right wing.

In attack, Rodrigo Muniz has started the last three matches but is yet to score since August, raising the possibility of Raul Jimenez being recalled to lead the line. Emile Smith Rowe could retain his place in the number 10 role ahead of Josh King.

Iwobi’s injury will also be monitored closely by Nigeria manager Eric Chelle, with the midfielder expected to be part of the squad for upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Portugal.

Fulham will hope to cope without one of their most consistent performers as they look to finish the season strongly, while awaiting further clarity on the extent of Iwobi’s injury and his potential return.