By Karl Matchett
Factors over performances
For champions-elect Liverpool, the midweek Merseyside derby was all about getting the victory, nonetheless it occurred. In the end, it was slim and nervy so far as wins go, regardless of dominating the ball for lengthy stretches – however after dropping a cup ultimate and being knocked out of Europe, solely the factors mattered. And, it’s essential to notice, they’ve stored doing that.
These defeats and a protracted worldwide break meant it was very almost a month because the Reds had final performed or picked up a win within the Premier League – most likely contributing to a wider feeling of it not fairly being throughout but. However, it’s 4 straight wins for Arne Slot’s workforce within the prime flight. They’ve truly elevated their lead on the prime over that interval, even when the opposite competitions gave the ambiance round Anfield a extra nervous and unsure aura than ought to actually be warranted. With a 11-point lead, they now want simply 11 extra to seal a primary league championship in 5 years.
Europe on the agenda
However Fulham are usually not bystanders right here. They’ve an uneven house document this time period, true, however they’re additionally nonetheless very a lot within the combine for a spot in Europe subsequent season: tenth within the desk however simply six factors off fifth with eight video games to play. Marco Silva’s aspect suffered FA Cup defeat on the weekend although in addition to that midweek loss to Arsenal and whereas they’ll nonetheless spring a shock, it is perhaps they’re operating out of steam because the marketing campaign attracts in the direction of an in depth.
Current kind
In all competitions it’s three defeats within the final 4 for Fulham, whereas at house they’ve solely received three of the final ten. 4 of these are attracts although, and even that may be seen as a constructive in opposition to the league leaders. Liverpool themselves have solely misplaced away to Tottenham, PSV and Plymouth this time period – a primary leg loss which was overcome within the return, and two second-string lineups. Extra notably, their final two away video games have been wins at Man Metropolis and PSG.
Crew information
Harry Wilson and Kenny Tete ought to return earlier than season’s finish, however not going for this recreation, and Reiss Nelson might not play in any respect once more this time period. For the guests, Alisson Becker can be assessed after concussion however the recreation could also be too quickly for Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez, each in particular person coaching. Trent Alexander-Arnold stays out, so Curtis Jones may play right-back once more.
Key participant
Diogo Jota lastly discovered the online in midweek and with Mohamed Salah off the boil of late, that’s important for Liverpool to recover from the road. Jota ranks increased than 89% of comparable gamers in assists, 96% in touches within the field and 91% for pictures. Up his ending somewhat and the Reds get the title within the bag.
Prediction
They may not be at their greatest however Liverpool discovered a method in midweek and may do the identical once more in West London: Fulham 1 Liverpool 2.
(Cowl picture from IMAGO)
You’ll be able to comply with each Premier League recreation with FotMob this season — that includes deep stats protection, xG, and participant scores. Obtain the free app right here.