Football Tips: Pedro makes a point in Joe Cole’s 30/1 Fulham v Chelsea Bet Builder

As Richard Keys once said, in the company of pom-pom-toting cheerleaders being ogled by a heavily shellsuited Maine Road, “Mondays are now officially part of the weekend”. The times may change, but we’re inclined to agree with him on this one, and what better way to close the first weekend of the new Premier League campaign than with a London derby of rich vs richer on the banks of the Thames? (Truffle and salmon mousse profiteroles, anyone?)

Fulham may have won the last encounter 2-1 in January, but once again, Chelsea have splashed out – almost to the extent that virtually every Englishman under 40 is at risk of being called up to take on the Cottagers. The most prominent addition is, of course, £117m man Morgan Rogers, who shares common ground with our pal and former international Joe Cole, acting as the driving force behind the attack for both Chelsea and England.

Does Mr Cole think he can make an impact and get the Xabi Alonso era off to a winning start? Or maybe it’ll be one of the more inexplicable additions, such as Danny Welbeck or Jordan Henderson… either way, you need wonder no more! Joe’s got a lovely Fulham v Chelsea Bet Builder for us, including four player picks covered by Paddy’s Super Sub offer.

Fulham v Chelsea Bet Builder tips

Chelsea to win & both teams to score: Yes
João Pedro to score or assist
Morgan Rogers 2+ shots on target
Cole Palmer 2+ shots on target
Josh King 2+ shots

A Bet Builder with these selections pays approximately 30/1 with Paddy Power. CLICK OR TAP HERE TO ADD IT TO YOUR BETSLIP.

WHEN: Monday, 24th August 2026 @ 8pm
WHERE: Craven Cottage, London
TV: Sky Sports Main Event

Chelsea to win & both teams to score: Yes

There’s so much to talk about with Chelsea this season. I’m happy Xabi Alonso’s in. I’m happy Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson are in. Those experienced signings should have happened three years ago, but since they have now, let’s get behind them.

Alonso’s sides play great attacking football, with a high line, and with the forwards they have, they’ll start with a win. They’re still a bit frail at the back, an issue which Alonso will need to iron out, so I’ll back Chelsea to win with both teams to score

Joao Pedro to score or assist

You can take your pick on Chelsea’s front three for this one. Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer, and Morgan Rogers will have been watching Alonso’s teams, where they play with a high line and get balls into the number 10s in good areas. So all three will have a great time. So get on Pedro to score or assist.

Morgan Rogers & Cole Palmer: 2+ shots on target each

I fancy both Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers to have two or more shots on target. Both men looked good when they shared a pitch for an hour in the 3-1 win over Real Sociedad last Saturday, with Rogers scoring and taking seven touches in the box – a tally bettered only by Pedro. Cole Palmer managed three shots, too.