Brentford v Fulham Match Preview
Brentford head into this fixture having failed to win in 5 consecutive matches across all competitions, most recently being held to a 2-2 draw by Everton after Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored in stoppage time. That run has stalled their push for European football, and Keith Andrews’ side have been unable to take advantage of Chelsea’s poor form. The Bees sit 1 point behind Chelsea and 5 behind Liverpool, making Saturday’s game a significant one — a win would bring them to within touching distance of 6th place.
Andrews faces a problem at left back, with both Rico Henry and Aaron Hickey sidelined. Keane Lewis-Potter is expected to continue in an unfamiliar role as a result. Vitaly Janelt and Mikkel Damsgaard are also doubts, and the starting eleven is likely to closely resemble the side that faced Everton. Igor Thiago should lead the line, with Kevin Schade and Dango Ouattara on the flanks.
Fulham have also struggled for consistency, winning just 1 of their last 5 matches across all competitions. A 2-0 defeat at Anfield last time out continued a difficult run for Marco Silva’s side, who have accumulated 44 points from 32 Premier League games this season and need 10 more to match last campaign’s total. Their away form has been a particular weakness, with just 15 points taken from 16 top-flight road trips — only Leeds United, Burnley and Wolves have fared worse on their travels.
Silva is expected to have close to a full squad available. Harry Wilson should start on the right wing with Rodrigo Muniz up front, while Emile Smith Rowe is pushing for a starting role. The left wing position is less certain, with Oscar Bobb, Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi all in contention. If Sasa Lukic is fit to partner Sander Berge in midfield, Iwobi could fill the wide role.