I don't know the answer to that question, but apparently Sheff Utd made some similar changes for presumably the same reason ... avoiding relegation is a priority. In any case Fulham should have had the resources/ability even without their best X1 on the pitch to take care of a team two divisions...
They were so so bad against Sheff Utd last night, a Sheff Utd team which had lost 3-0 to Crewe on Saturday. Their next 8 fixtures include away games at both Manchester clubs and home matches against Liverpool, Chelsea and Everton. They must be nailed on favourites for relegation. At least, now...