Following Arsenal`s dropped points, Liverpool has a golden opportunity to advance their Premier League title chase by securing a victory against Fulham this Sunday. With just 11 points needed to clinch the title, Arne Slot`s team is focused and can fully concentrate on the league as they are no longer competing in the Champions League.
While Fulham has shown improvement this season, Liverpool is confident in overcoming any obstacles in their quest for the title. The Reds have demonstrated resilience, bouncing back from recent defeats in the Champions League and EFL Cup final by winning against Everton in the Merseyside derby. Sunday`s game is another chance to build momentum and strengthen their push for the Premier League title.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, April 6
- Location: Craven Cottage — London
Recent Encounter
Fulham is among the few teams to have taken points from Liverpool this season, securing a draw in their December 2024 match. Despite Andrew Robertson`s red card early in the game, Liverpool showed resilience and managed to score twice, drawing level on both occasions. Although Liverpool created more chances, playing at Craven Cottage presents a different challenge compared to a home game.
Coach Insights
Alisson may miss the match due to concussion protocol. Coach Slot is expected to prioritize player safety, especially with a capable backup goalkeeper like Caoimhin Kelleher available. Kelleher has already started nine league games this season and is likely to start again on Sunday.
Slot stated, regarding Alisson`s situation, that it`s a concussion, and they are following protocol. He will play when he clears all necessary steps, otherwise Kelleher will take his place.
With potential changes in the goalkeeping position next season, including the rumored arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili, the focus for now remains on securing the Premier League title. Future decisions will be addressed after the season concludes.
Stakes of the Game
Amidst future uncertainties for Liverpool, securing the Premier League title is paramount. Post-season decisions regarding key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil Van Dijk can wait until the title race is settled. Winning against Fulham and continuing their winning streak to achieve the necessary 11 points for the title is the immediate priority. Putting the Champions League exit behind them is crucial for their focus.
Predicted Lineups
Fulham: Bernd Leno, Antonee Robinson, Calvin Bassey, Joachim Andersen, Timothy Castagne, Sander Berge, Alex Iwobi, Andreas Pereira, Willian, Raul Jimenez
Liverpool: Caoimhin Kelleher, Andrew Robertson, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Kounate, Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, Luis Diaz, Dominik Szoboszlai, Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota
Player Spotlight
Mohamed Salah, Liverpool: Salah is in contention for the Premier League Golden Boot and could also lead the league in assists, a feat last achieved by Harry Kane. He has the opportunity to set a new record at Craven Cottage by being involved in two or more goals for the fifth consecutive away match, surpassing Thierry Henry`s previous record.
Key Match Storyline
Can Fulham Cause an Upset? Despite Liverpool being the favorites, Fulham will aim to challenge them at home. With aspirations for European qualification, Fulham needs to secure points and has previously drawn with Liverpool this season. However, the stakes are higher now. Fulham might exploit Curtis Jones playing at right back, but they must maximize their scoring opportunities against a strong Liverpool side.
Match Prediction
Liverpool is expected to win and continue their Premier League title pursuit. Their strong league form and the attacking prowess of players like Salah should be enough to overcome Fulham, even in an away fixture. Prediction: Fulham 0, Liverpool 2
