Liverpool will look to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League when they host Fulham at Anfield on Saturday afternoon. Currently four points clear at the summit, Jurgen Klopp’s men are in impressive form, despite a slight dip in their midweek Champions League performance against Girona. Meanwhile, Fulham have shown they can be a tricky opponent for the top teams, having earned valuable points against sides like Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal in recent weeks. The stage is set for what could be an exciting encounter as the Reds aim to maintain their winning run.
Match Details
- Location: Anfield, Liverpool, England
- Date: Saturday, 14 December 2024
- Kick-off Time: 15:00 GMT / 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT
- Referee: Tony Harrington
- VAR: Stuart Attwell
Liverpool vs Fulham Head-to-Head (H2H)
Liverpool have dominated the recent head-to-head record against Fulham, winning four of the last five encounters. The most recent meeting between the two sides saw the Reds triumph 3-1 at Craven Cottage in April 2024. Last season’s games were hard-fought affairs, including a 4-3 thriller at Anfield, which highlighted Fulham’s ability to cause trouble for Klopp’s team. Here’s a look at the recent meetings:
| Result | Liverpool | Fulham |
|---|---|---|
| Last Meeting | 3-1 Liverpool | |
| 4 Wins Liverpool | 4 | |
| 0 Wins Fulham | 0 | |
| Draws | 1 |
Current Form
Liverpool
Liverpool are in strong form despite a few challenges in recent weeks. Their 1-0 win over Girona in the Champions League showed they can grind out results, although they looked somewhat rusty. However, their domestic form has been impressive, with recent victories over Manchester City (2-0) and a thrilling 3-3 draw against Newcastle. With the Reds’ attacking prowess and solid defensive structure, Klopp will be confident in his team’s ability to continue their title push.
| Result | Date |
|---|---|
| Girona 0-1 Liverpool | 10/12/2024 |
| Newcastle 3-3 Liverpool | 04/12/2024 |
| Liverpool 2-0 Man City | 01/12/2024 |
| Liverpool 2-0 Real Madrid | 27/11/2024 |
| Southampton 2-3 Liverpool | 24/11/2024 |
Fulham
Fulham have been unpredictable this season, but they have shown resilience in matches against top teams. The Cottagers recently managed a 1-1 draw against Arsenal and secured a solid 3-1 win over Brighton. However, they have also suffered disappointing defeats, such as their 1-4 loss to Wolves. Marco Silva’s side will look to take advantage of any lapses from Liverpool, particularly on the counter-attack, as they try to extend their impressive recent record.
| Result | Date |
|---|---|
| Fulham 1-1 Arsenal | 08/12/2024 |
| Fulham 3-1 Brighton | 05/12/2024 |
| Tottenham 1-1 Fulham | 01/12/2024 |
| Fulham 1-4 Wolves | 23/11/2024 |
| Crystal Palace 0-2 Fulham | 09/11/2024 |
Liverpool Team News
Liverpool have had some injury concerns, but key players have been returning to full fitness. Alisson made his long-awaited return from injury during the victory over Girona and will be ready for the Fulham clash. However, the Reds remain without the services of Conor Bradley, Kostas Tsimikas, and Ibrahima Konate in defense, with all three not expected to return until late December. Diogo Jota is nearing a return after a two-month layoff, but he may only be fit for a spot on the bench.
Federico Chiesa has seen some Under-21 action after a long spell out of the squad and could feature in some capacity. Alexis Mac Allister, however, will serve a one-match suspension after accumulating five yellow cards.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs Fulham (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Alisson
- Defenders: Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson
- Midfielders: Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Jones
- Forwards: Salah, Diaz, Gakpo
Fulham Team News
Fulham come into the match with several notable absentees. Tom Cairney will serve the final match of his three-game suspension for a red card against Tottenham. Additionally, Calvin Bassey will also miss out after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season in last weekend’s match against Arsenal. The Cottagers are also without key players Harrison Reed, who is recovering from knee surgery, and Joachim Andersen, who is sidelined with a calf injury.
On-loan winger Reiss Nelson will miss out due to injury, leaving Fulham with limited attacking options. However, they do have a strong defense and creative players like Adama Traore and Alex Iwobi, who will look to cause problems on the break.
Fulham Predicted Lineup vs Liverpool (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Leno
- Defenders: Tete, Diop, Cuenca, Robinson
- Midfielders: Berge, Lukic
- Attacking Midfielders: Traore, Smith Rowe, Iwobi
- Striker: Raul Jimenez
Liverpool vs Fulham Score Prediction
Liverpool have been formidable at Anfield this season, with just one home defeat, and will be looking to maintain that record against Fulham. Klopp’s side has the attacking firepower to overwhelm Fulham, especially with Mohamed Salah and Luis Díaz in fine form. While Fulham can be dangerous on the counter-attack, they will have to be at their best to keep Liverpool at bay for 90 minutes.
Fulham’s tactical approach will likely center around defending deep and trying to exploit spaces on the break, particularly through Adama Traore’s pace and power. However, Liverpool’s high press and ability to dominate possession should eventually wear Fulham down, and the Anfield crowd will play a significant role in pushing the Reds toward victory.
Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Fulham
Liverpool’s attacking quality should see them come out on top in this encounter, with Fulham potentially finding some joy on the counter but ultimately unable to hold off Klopp’s side for the full match.
