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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has lauded summer signing Marco Palestra for offering "something different" ahead of their Premier League opener against Fulham. The Spanish tactician praised the versatile defender's tactical education in Italian football and positive dressing-room influence as the Blues prepare for Monday's London derby at Craven Cottage.

Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa insisted his longstanding friendship with Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso will be set aside when the West London rivals clash on Monday night. Both former Liverpool team-mates are preparing for their Premier League managerial debuts at Craven Cottage, adding an intriguing subplot to an already intense opening London derby.