Liverpool missed Mohamed Salah at the Africa Cup of Nations, and his absence was felt as the Reds struggled to break down Leeds on New Year’s Day. Softfootball reported that despite creating almost two expected goals, Liverpool could not find a way past Daniel Farke’s defence, leaving them to share the points in a 0-0 draw.
The result raises questions about Liverpool’s Champions League credentials, though they remain fourth in the Premier League. Previous struggles were evident after dropping points at home against a resilient Leeds side, with fan frustration growing following the draw, as reflected in reactions from supporters whose betting slips were ruined.
Fulham, meanwhile, arrive at Craven Cottage looking to close the gap on Liverpool. The Cottagers are 11th in the table but only three points behind fifth-placed Chelsea, and they come into the weekend unbeaten in their last three league games.
However, manager Marco Silva has never beaten reigning champions in the Premier League, losing all 11 matches against them. Still, last season Fulham earned four points from two games against Liverpool, including a 3-2 home win, giving them hope of troubling the Reds again.
Fulham updated their fans on their next match against Liverpool on their official X handle.
Team News
Liverpool will be missing Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni, and Wataru Endo, with Joe Gomez a slight doubt. Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister, and Milos Kerkez are expected to start.
Fulham are likely to be without Kenny Tete, Josh King, Ryan Sessegnon, and Rodrigo Muniz, while Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey are at AFCON. Harry Wilson could play a key role after his recent goal involvements.
Possible Lineups
Fulham: Leno; Castagne, Andersen, Cuenca, Robinson; Lukic, Berge; Wilson, Smith Rowe, Kevin; Jimenez
Liverpool: Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Jones; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Gakpo; Ekitike
Softfootball Prediction
Fulham 1-1 Liverpool. With Liverpool fatigued from midweek action and Fulham’s strong home form, a low-scoring draw looks likely. Both teams have attacking quality, but neither is expected to dominate, making a shared point the most probable outcome.
