Fulham and Southampton are set to compete at Craven Cottage on Sunday in what promises to be a crucial fixture for both sides. The hosts are enjoying a steady run in the league, while Southampton remain in turmoil and in desperate need of points to climb out of the relegation zone.
Fulham Recent Form
Fulham come into this game unbeaten in their last four Premier League matches. Despite failing to win their last two fixtures, they managed impressive draws against Arsenal and Liverpool.
Currently sitting eighth in the table, Marco Silva’s men are showing resilience, and they'll look to capitalise on Southampton's struggles to continue their push for a European spot.
Injury and Team News
For Fulham, Calvin Bassey and Tom Cairney are back in contention after serving suspensions. However, Andreas Pereira will miss this match due to a yellow card suspension picked up against Liverpool.
Marco Silva will likely rely on Alex Iwobi and Emile Smith-Rowe to spark creativity in midfield.
Last Fulham Lineup
Here is how Fulham lined up for their last match:
Southampton Recent Form
The Saints are in dire form, languishing at the bottom of the table. A crushing 5-0 defeat to Tottenham proved to be the end of Russell Martin's tenure.
Southampton’s 2-1 loss to Liverpool in the EFL Cup showed glimpses of spirit, but their league form remains abysmal, with no away wins this season and nine points adrift of safety.
Injury and Team News
Southampton will be under interim boss Simon Rusk, who may stick with the side that fought valiantly against Liverpool in midweek. Flynn Downes is expected to play a key role despite his disciplinary issues.
Last Southampton Lineup
Here is how Southampton lined up for their last match:
Fulham vs Southampton – Who is the Referee and VAR?
Here are the confirmed on-field referees and VAR for the game:
Referee: Tim Robinson.
Assistants: Simon Bennett, Dan Robathan.
Fourth official: Darren Bond.
VAR: Jarred Gillett.
Assistant VAR: Marc Perry.
Fulham Player to Watch
Alex Iwobi has been a standout performer for Fulham this season. Averaging 0.88 shots on target per game, his ability to find space and create chances will be crucial in unlocking Southampton’s fragile defence.
Southampton Player to Watch
Flynn Downes is a key player for Southampton, though his aggressive play has led to multiple fouls this season. His ability to disrupt Fulham’s midfield might be vital for the Saints' chances of getting a result.
Prediction
Given the contrasting form of both sides, Fulham are favourites to secure a win. Southampton's struggles on the road and lack of a permanent manager make it difficult to see them taking anything from this match.
Our Prediction: Fulham 2-0 Southampton
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Fulham Win & Under 4.5 Goals
Fulham have won six times in the Premier League this season, with each victory featuring fewer than five goals.
Tip 2: Alex Iwobi 1+ Shot on Target
Iwobi's consistent form makes him likely to test the keeper at least once.
Tip 3: Flynn Downes to Commit 2+ Fouls
Downes averages two fouls per game and faces a busy Fulham midfield.
