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Premier League Showdown at Craven Cottage: Can Liverpool Maintain Their Title Charge?
Liverpool head to Craven Cottage on Sunday in a must-win fixture as the Premier League title race intensifies. After narrowly edging past Everton in the Merseyside Derby, Arne Slot’s side now face a tricky away game against a Fulham side that has shown flashes of resilience this season. With a few key players returning from injury and potential changes in the starting XI, all eyes will be on how the Reds line up for this pivotal encounter.
Contents
Possible Liverpool Starting XI vs Fulham (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Alisson Becker
Liverpool’s number one missed the midweek derby due to a concussion, but positive signs suggest he could be back between the sticks. His return would add calm and authority at the back—something the Reds sorely lacked at times against Everton.
Defence
Right-back: Conor Bradley
Bradley is also being monitored closely after missing the midweek fixture. If cleared, the Northern Irishman will likely slot right back into the starting eleven, bringing energy and precision on the flank.
Centre-backs: Ibrahima Konaté & Virgil van Dijk
Both central defenders had their fair share of struggles against Everton’s physical forwards, especially Beto. But with Joe Gomez sidelined and Jarell Quansah lacking experience in high-stakes matches, Slot is expected to stick with his first-choice pairing.
Left-back: Kostas Tsimikas
With Robertson potentially getting a rest, Tsimikas could step in. The Greek international hasn’t seen much action under Slot, but this could be a chance to prove his worth as Liverpool look to balance freshness with consistency.
Midfield
Double Pivot: Ryan Gravenberch & Alexis Mac Allister
Gravenberch impressed in the derby with his progressive runs and long-range efforts. Mac Allister, on the other hand, showed resilience, completing the full 90 minutes despite a dangerous challenge from Tarkowski. The duo’s chemistry in midfield will be crucial in controlling the game against Fulham’s compact setup.
Attack
Right Wing: Mohamed Salah
Salah failed to score midweek, but with Erling Haaland sidelined, the Egyptian remains a favorite in the Golden Boot race. His ability to change the game in an instant makes him indispensable.
Attacking Midfield: Dominik Szoboszlai
The Hungarian continues to be a workhorse, covering ground tirelessly and linking up play. His vision and energy are central to Liverpool’s attacking transitions.
Left Wing: Cody Gakpo
Gakpo is still working his way back to peak form, but his versatility offers Slot options in attack. With Luis Diaz possibly rested, Gakpo could get the nod.
Striker: Diogo Jota
After finally ending his goal drought in the derby, Jota looks set to lead the line again. His previous success at Craven Cottage adds to the logic of Slot sticking with him over Darwin Núñez.
Fulham’s Form and the Bigger Picture
Although Fulham have lost their last two matches, they remain a threat at home, having drawn 2-2 with Liverpool at Anfield earlier this season—a game where Liverpool played with ten men for over half an hour. Marco Silva’s side are well-organized and capable of exploiting gaps, especially through players like Andreas Pereira and Raul Jiménez.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have just six league matches remaining. With Manchester City and Arsenal breathing down their necks, there’s little room for error. Every fixture now has the weight of a final, and dropping points against mid-table opposition could prove fatal in the title race.
What to Expect on Sunday
Expect a high-tempo game where Liverpool will try to dominate possession and press high, while Fulham may opt for compactness and quick counters. The Reds will need clinical finishing and solid defensive coordination to avoid another nervy encounter.
What’s your prediction for this crucial match? Will Liverpool stay on course for the Premier League title, or can Fulham spring a surprise at Craven Cottage?
