Anfield is the venue for Liverpool versus Fulham this weekend, with the hosts the clear favourites ahead of the tie. That said, they’ve only won once in their last four against the Cottagers, which was the recent 1-0 victory last campaign.
Liverpool
After reconstructing the entire midfield over the summer, Jurgen Klopp’s side is starting to look like their former self. 13 matches have been played in the Premier League and Liverpool sit in third on 28 points, two off Arsenal in first. The Reds have netted the fourth most goals per game on average, 2.15, and they have scored in every game this season. They’re also much more solid at the back as of late, conceding the second fewest this campaign, 11.
Jurgen Klopp was able to rotate some of his key men and provide fringe players with important game time on Thursday evening, as his side cruised to an easy 4-0 home win against LASK. Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz both got on the scoresheet, with the former completing the full ninety minutes.
Fulham
Unlike this weekend’s opponent, Fulham have struggled to find the back of the net consistently this season, scoring one goal per game on average, the joint third lowest in the Premier League. Marco Silva’s side doesn’t excel defensively either, conceding 1.69 goals per game on average. Due to this, Fulham are currently in 14th after 13 matches on 15 points.
Last Monday, the Cottagers picked up their first win in four matches, beating Wolves 3-2 at Craven Cottage. Alex Iwobi opened the scoring early on, but the visitors equalised before the break. The second half saw three penalties be awarded, with Willian scoring a brace from the spot to secure the victory.
Verdict?
Liverpool will dominate this game, controlling the tie from the off. The physical and athletic dominance of the Liverpool centre backs will deal with Raul Jimenez; therefore, Fulham may use Willian as an out-ball instead. The Cottagers will have limited opportunities in attack and based on their poor scoring form so far, the Reds should be comfortable.
Fulham have only won once on the road all season, which occurred in Merseyside on the opening weekend of the season. On the other hand, Liverpool have won all six of their games at Anfield, which looks set to extend to seven this weekend.
The final prediction is Liverpool 3-0 Fulham.
