Sidwell Has Nothing to Prove

Fulham play host to local rivals Chelsea on Monday, and while a lot of attention will be payed to the close proximity of the two sides, little time will be reserved for Steve Sidwell, whom faces his old club for the first time since his move to Craven Cottage.

Sidwell, however, has claimed he will not let his less-than-encouraging time at Chelsea dampen his mood come Valentine's Day, and the 28 year-old insists his mind will be on impressing Mark Hughes only; not on previous opportunities missed:

"I don’t feel I’ve got anything to prove," said Sidwell.

"It’s one of those things in life where if it works out at a club then great, if it doesn’t you just get your head down and move on.

"It didn’t work out at Chelsea but I’m at Fulham now, and all I’m concerned about is putting in a performance for the fans and manager."

The ex-Chelsea man has impressed so far on his return to South West London, despite a lack of opportunities at previous club, Aston Villa. He hasn't quite set Craven Cottage alight yet, but his capableness, composure and all-round stability are ideal in any on-field scenario.

However, Sidwell has no room for complacency, as he full well knows:

"Every training session and game is a trial for me. I’ve got to prove my worth to the manager and wait for discussions at the end of the season."

It remains to be seen, given to possible return of Dickson Etuhu to the centre of the park, whether Sidwell will play a part next Monday, but, if he does, he's guaranteed a fantastic welcome from the Fulham faithful thanks to a very strong start in the white of Fulham.