Saturday Fulham Stuff - 11/04/26...

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Liverpool line-ups for Fulham as Alexander Isak and Mohamed Salah decisions made
Our Liverpool FC writers select their line-ups for Saturday's evening crucial Premier League against Fulham at Anfield

Liverpool have no time to feel sorry for themselves. Yes, they are out of the FA Cup and, yes, they stand on the brink of an exit from the Champions League.

Add that to the fact that their hopes of retaining the Premier League title they won at a canter last season are long gone, and there is no disputing it has been a disappointing campaign.

But Arne Slot and his players must rally themselves and achieve what is the club's minimum objective - qualifying for next season's Champions League.

And Liverpool can take a big step in the right direction this evening with victory at home to a Fulham side who have ambitions of gatecrashing the European places.

So how should Reds boss Slot line-up given he may have one eye on Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final decider against Paris Saint-Germain, who will be favourites to progress but whose 2-0 first-leg advantage is not insurmountable?

Our Liverpool writers have their say...

Paul Gorst
The back five experiment at PSG can be consigned to the dustbin for this one, its four at the back for me and a return for Andy Robertson, who is set for a hero's ovation after his announcement that he will leave at the end of the season. Jeremie Frimpong starts at right-back.

In midfield, Curtis Jones returns in place of Alexis Mac Allister. Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch keep their places.

I'm going to start Alexander Isak. The Sweden international needs minutes and may likely tire as the games wears on after so long out but he could still be important this season.

Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo return also. Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike can wait in the wings.

My team (4-3-3): Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Jones, Szoboszlai; Salah, Isak, Gakpo.

Ian Doyle
Not long to go now, folks. Just the seven Premier League games remain in a season that feels like it has gone on forever for Liverpool.

Fulham are up next at Anfield this evening. What, though, is Reds boss Arne Slot to do?

With this the second of three games in seven days - and how often that has been asked of Liverpool this campaign - there are going to have to be changes.

Not in goal, though. That remains Giorgi Mamardashvili. And with a return to 4-2-3-1, Andy Robertson can come in at left-back and Dominik Szoboszlai can go to right-back for this one. Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk are the centre-backs.

Midfield also sees some alterations, with Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister the deeper duo and Florian Wirtz in the number 10 role.

Up front, it's all change with Rio Ngumoha left, Mohamed Salah on the right and Cody Gakpo down the middle.

My team (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Szoboszlai, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Jones, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Ngumoha; Gakpo.



https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/liverpool-line-ups-fulham-alexander-33751095

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Liverpool vs Fulham preview | Team news | Line-ups | How to watch | Prediction
Liverpool boss Arne Slot will hope to guide his side to their first win after three consecutive losses when they welcome Fulham to Anfield on Saturday evening.

Liverpool's difficult run has worsened further following a heavy 4–0 FA Cup loss to Manchester City, followed by a 2–0 first-leg defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

Their league form has offered little relief, with 10 defeats from gameweek six onwards—surpassing their nine victories—leaving them fifth with seven matches remaining.

In their most recent Premier League outing at the American Express Stadium, they fell 2–1 to Brighton & Hove Albion, marking a third consecutive match without a win.

Although a top-five finish would still secure Champions League qualification, Liverpool are only five points adrift of fourth-placed Aston Villa and sit just three points above Everton, keeping the race tightly contested.

They now return to Anfield, where they have suffered just one defeat in 13 matches, but face a challenging fixture against Fulham, a side they have failed to beat in their last three league encounters (two draws and one loss). The only longer winless league spell against the London club came between 1966 and 1967, when they went four games without a victory.

Fulham endured a sluggish start to 2026, managing only two wins from their opening eight Premier League fixtures, but have since shown improved form with three victories in their last five matches (alongside one draw and one defeat). That recent surge includes a confident 3–1 home triumph over relegation-threatened Burnley three weeks ago.

Currently sitting ninth in the league table, Marco Silva's side are still firmly in contention for a potential return to European competition for the first time since the 2011–12 season. They sit just two points outside the top seven and are only five points behind fifth-placed Liverpool, their opponents this weekend, with seven matches still to play.

Despite that optimism, Fulham's historical record at Anfield remains a major hurdle: they have won only two of their 32 away league meetings with Liverpool (eight draws and 22 defeats). Those rare victories came in May 2012 and March 2021, both ending 1–0 in their favour. Another win on this occasion would significantly boost their European ambitions.

Having scored the third most goals (43) of any team below the top eight, Marco Silva will be optimistic his side will produce a clinical outing in this game, especially against a Liverpool side that has conceded eight goals in their last three games. In contrast, the West Londoners have conceded just two goals in their last three and have not conceded more than one goal in any of their last seven games since conceding three against Manchester City in February.

Team news
Italian centre-back Giovanni Leoni remains Liverpool's longest-standing absentee due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury. At the same time, Alison Becker, Wataru Endo, and Conor Bradley are ruled out of the game with respective long-term injuries.

Mohamed Salah, who was an unused substitute against PSG, is expected to return to the lineup against one of his favourite opponents, having provided six goal contributions in ten games against Fulham.

Alexander Isak returned to the pitch for the first time in over three months after coming off the bench in the second half against Les Parisiens and is likely to come off the bench with Hugo Ekitike getting the starting nod.

Fulham, meanwhile, are boosted by the return of centre-back Calvin Bassey to the squad after pulling out from international duty with Nigeria due to injury.

However, they will remain without Brazilian winger Kevin, who suffered a foot injury in February against Sunderland, while Kenny Tete is still undergoing rehabilitation and won't be available for the trip to Merseyside.

At the same time, Harrison Reed, who scored a Puskas-worthy equaliser in the 2-2 draw against the Reds, is ruled out of this clash with a knee injury.

Expected lineups
Liverpool: Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Jones; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike.

Fulham: Leno, Castagne, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson; Berge, Iwobi; Wilson, King, Bobb; Jimenez.

How to watch/stream
Liverpool vs Fulham will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK. The coverage will begin at 5pm BST on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League.

Sky Sports subscribers can live stream the match via the Sky Go app on a variety of devices, including most smartphones and tablets, as part of their subscription.

Supporters without an active subscription may need to rely on post-match highlights once they are officially released.

However, some viewers sometimes turn to unofficial online broadcasts that appear around kick-off time to follow the game live.

These unlicensed streams circulate across various online platforms, though they remain unauthorised, unsupported, and not approved in any way.

Prediction
Liverpool 2-1 Fulham: Since their Premier League promotion in 2022, Fulham have netted 13 goals across seven top-flight meetings with Liverpool, a tally only bettered in that period by Tottenham (14) and Brighton (15) against the Reds.

As such, the Cottagers are not expected to sit back in this game and are expected to take the game to the defending champions.

However, they will also be wary of going out guns blazing into unfriendly territory, as at Anfield, where they've recorded only two wins in their last 32 games.

The match is expected to be an interesting matchup between two teams that are relentless until the final whistle. Both teams have netted 18 goals in the last 20 minutes of games this season, more than any other team in the Premier League.




https://football-talk.co.uk/231332/liverpool-vs-fulham-preview-team-news-line-ups-how-to-watch-prediction/

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Expect late drama: The telling 18-goal stat that could define Liverpool vs. Fulham
Liverpool's meeting with Fulham could be set up for more late drama, with both teams 'stronger' in the second half and not proficient at keeping a clean sheet.

Fulham make the trip to Anfield, and no side in the Premier League this season has scored more goals in the final 20 minutes of a game than they have. They are level with Liverpool on 18 goals.

It speaks to the fact that the visitors, since Christmas, have scored only four of their 19 league goals in the opening half of games.

Liverpool, meanwhile, struggle to keep the ball out of the net at home, with just four clean sheets in 15 league fixtures at Anfield this season.

Liverpool aim for 1,500 league wins at Anfield
A victory in this game will see Liverpool reach the landmark of 1,500 league wins at Anfield in their history.

This is Liverpool's 50th game of the campaign. They have won 25, drawn 7 and lost 17, for a win percentage of just 51%.

Slot's men have not scored in their last two games, the last time they failed to score in three successive games was February 2016. Let's not have a repeat!

A mixed record with 5.30pm kickoff for Liverpool
This will be Liverpool's sixth game this season that has kicked off at 5.30 pm. They have won one of the previous five (drawing two and losing two), overcoming Tottenham 2-1 in London last December.

The Reds will want that record to read better, but they have not won in the last three league meetings with Fulham. Only once have they had a longer run without a league victory, four games between 1966 and 1967.

Ex-Red Harry Wilson the one Liverpool have to watch
Fulham could equal a club record today by recording a fourth successive league game without defeat against Liverpool.

The last time Fulham won at Anfield was in March 2021, when Mario Lemina (who scored for Galatasaray against Liverpool last month) netted the only goal in a match played behind closed doors.

Harry Wilson has been directly involved in 16 Premier League goals this season (10 goals, 6 assists).

Wilson is his club's leading scorer in the league with 10 goals. He is only the second British player to reach double figures for the Cottagers in a single Premier League campaign, after Andy Cole's 12 in 2004/05.

Liverpool and Fulham scorers so far this season
Liverpool: Ekitike 17, Szoboszlai 12, Salah 10, Gakpo 8, Wirtz 6, Gravenberch 5,
Mac Allister 5, van Dijk 5, Chiesa 3, Isak 3, Frimpong 2, Jones 2, Kerkez 2, Konate 2, Robertson 2, Ngumoha 1, own goals 3

Fulham: Wilson 11, Jimenez 10, Smith Rowe 5, Iwobi 4, Chukwueze 3, Kevin 3, King 2, Lukic 2, Reed 2, Sessegnon 2, Bassey 1, Cairney 1, Muniz 1, Tete 1, own goals 5

* Stats courtesy of LFC statistician Ged Rea (@ged0407).



https://www.thisisanfield.com/2026/04/liverpool-vs-fulham-stats-late-goals-18-goal-stat/

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Liverpool predicted starting line-up against Fulham - five changes as Rio Ngumoha decision made
Liverpool team predicted to face Fulham in the Premier League at Anfield.

Liverpool's focus returns to the Premier League when they welcome Fulham to Anfield (17.30 BST).

The Reds head into the game with Arne Slot under intense pressure as head coach. Although Slot guided Liverpool to the title in his maiden season, this term has been insipid. The Reds have lost 16 games in all competitions and sit just fifth in the Premier League - facing a battle to qualify for the Champions League.

In addition, they crashed out of the FA Cup after a 4-0 defeat to Manchester City last weekend while a 2-0 loss against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarter-final first leg puts them on the cusp of crashing out of the competition.

As a result, Slot needs to deliver as he faces calls for his head from significant sections of supporters. But with the second leg against PSG taking place in three days' time, the Liverpool boss also has to consider that showdown.

With everything in mind, here is the Liverpool team predicted.

GK - Giorgi Mamardashvili

Made several big saves to keep the scoreline down against PSG and he will be hoping that he's not as busy.

RB - Curtis Jones

Slot suggested that he is 'worried' about Jeremie Frimpong and Joe Gomez because of their injury issues. Therefore, a makeshift option may be needed so Jones could be deployed in the role.

CB - Ibrahima Konate

Was dragged all over the place by PSG's defence throughout the loss but he should, in theory, have an easier evening.

CB - Virgil van Dijk

The Liverpool skipper will be so frustrated how many games he has lost this season. He needs to lead from the front.

LB - Andy Robertson

The vice-captain will receive a rousing reception after announcing his exit at the end of the season.

CM - Ryan Gravenberch

The midfielder struggled to give Liverpool proper protection against PSG and Manchester City. While there won't be as much emphasis on his defensive duties, Gravenberch has to offer more.

CM - Alexis Mac Allister

Endured a difficult season overall but the lack of options means that he will likely continue.

CM - Dominik Szoboszlai

Was pretty anonymous against PSG but that was somewhat understandable. More will be needed from Szoboszlai, though.

RW - Mo Salah

Prepares to play his first game at Anfield since announcing his departure. Given that he was an unused substitute at PSG, he looks almost certain to start - and his name will be chanted vociferously.

ST - Cody Gakpo

Hugo Ekitike had a poor game against PSG while Alexander Isak may still not be ready to start. Therefore, Gakpo may be tasked with leading the line.

LW - Rio Ngumoha

The 17-year-old made his full Premier League debut a month against in a 1-1 draw against Tottenham. Ngumoha underlined he is ready for the level and could be given his latest chance.

Subs

Woodman, Frimpong, Gomez, Kerkez, Nyoni, Ekitike, Isak, Chiesa, Morrison.




https://www.liverpoolworld.uk/sport/football/liverpool/liverpool-predicted-starting-line-up-against-fulham-five-changes-as-rio-ngumoha-decision-made-6571074

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7 players missing Liverpool vs Fulham as Alisson injury update given
Liverpool faces a crucial game against Fulham at Anfield as the Reds return to Premier League action, with both sides heading into the clash with some big names missing

As many as seven players are expected to be absent from Saturday's Premier League clash between Liverpool and Fulham, highlighting the toll of an increasingly congested fixture schedule.

Arne Slot has faced a particularly challenging period since the Reds resumed action following the March international break. Liverpool was unceremoniously knocked out of the FA Cup quarter-finals by Manchester City last weekend, suffering a comprehensive 4-0 thrashing at the Etihad Stadium, before Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain brought further misery. The Reds returned from the Parc des Princes on the wrong end of a 2-0 defeat.

While Liverpool faces a considerable uphill battle ahead of next week's second leg at Anfield — given PSG's extraordinary current form — its focus will now shift entirely to this weekend's league fixture against Fulham.

With just seven games remaining, the Reds find themselves fifth in the Premier League table, five points adrift of the top four, although its current position would be enough for a place at Europe's top table next season.

Nevertheless, should the club wish to secure European football for the 2026/27 campaign, a strong run-in domestically or outright Champions League glory will be required — the latter appearing increasingly unlikely in light of this week's result.

Slot's vital Premier League push must begin this weekend, yet it is no secret that his squad has been significantly weakened by a string of notable injury setbacks of late.

Despite Alexander Isak making his return against PSG with limited minutes — his first competitive appearance since breaking his leg against Tottenham in December — four others will require additional time on the sidelines before they are ready to feature, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Alisson Becker has been working tirelessly to recover from a recent setback that has kept him sidelined since Liverpool's mid-March fixture with Galatasaray ahead of the international break. However, Saturday's encounter with Fulham looks to have come a touch too soon for the Brazilian shot-stopper.

Slot spoke about the goalkeeper during his pre-match press conference: "We don't get the player back yet but Alisson is working hard to get his way back. He won't be in this weekend."

Conor Bradley, meanwhile, is anticipated to remain absent for the remainder of the season following a knee injury sustained against Arsenal at the turn of the year, while Wataru Endo faces a similar outlook due to a foot injury picked up against Sunderland in February.

Giovani Leoni has also yet to feature for his club since his debut against Southampton in the Carabao Cup back in September, where he suffered a season-ending ACL injury. Isak may also find his playing time restricted once more as he continues to gradually ease himself back into contention.

However, Liverpool is not the only side contending with injuries going into this weekend's fixture. When questioned whether supporters might see Kevin again before the campaign concludes, Fulham boss Marco Silva said: "Lets see. Okay, he is very positive, so we have to go step by step.

"For the next one no, but we have seven games to play. Lets see if at least we can have him or not. But right now, not sure about it."

The Brazilian remains unavailable due to a foot injury sustained against Sunderland in February. Additionally, Silva has confirmed that Kenny Tete will be absent as he continues his rehabilitation from his own foot problem, while Harrison Reed will also be unavailable owing to a knee injury.



https://www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc-news/features/players-missing-liverpool-fulham-alisson-33752014

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Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Everton and Fulham 'monitoring' Southampton star Leo Scienza
Leeds United are reportedly among the clubs monitoring Southampton star Léo Scienza.

The 27-year-old, who can operate as a winger or attacking midfielder, only arrived on British shores in September last year.

He sealed a move to the Saints from Bundesliga outfit 1. FC Heidenheim, penning a four-year deal.

Scienza has been a key figure in Southampton's resurgence under Tonda Eckert, pushing the Saints into the Championship promotion race with his creativity.

Since his arrival in England's second tier, the Brazilian playmaker has registered six goals and eight assists across 31 league appearances.

Leeds United linked with Southampton star
It appears Southampton may need to clinch promotion to keep the vultures from circling, as ESPN Brazil have credited five Premier League clubs with interest.

Leeds, who are currently locked in a battle for Premier League survival, are said to be among them.

Scienza is also thought to have been looked at by Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Everton and Fulham.

After he was recruited by the Saints, Southampton's sporting director Johannes Spors said: "Leo is someone we feel can adapt well to English football. He is a creative player, a progressive dribbler and a strong set-piece taker.

"He is a player who has consistently produced goals and assists in every league he has played, and is an exciting addition to our forward line."

Leeds United's last playmaker signing
As it stands, Leeds look unlikely to make a permanent move for Argentina-capped attacking midfielder Facundo Buonanotte in the summer. The 21-year-old joined Leeds on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion in January but has been afforded just two league outings.

His return to Brighton may prompt Leeds to look at signing another creative midfield force, perhaps one more likely to feature prominently in Daniel Farke's side.

When asked about Buonanotte by our sister title the Yorkshire Evening Post earlier this week, Farke said: "I like a lot what he's done in the last two, three weeks. I've spoke with him, given him a sign we're happy with the consistency he delivers in training.

"He was pretty close to the matchday squad [at West Ham] though many players were fit. Perhaps a chance for him now there are a few injuries.

"But the solution is always deliver with consistency in training, not just one good session. You have to do this for a few weeks to be back in the spotlight. It means when I call him up I would need to leave another player in the offence."



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united-tottenham-hotspur-aston-villa-everton-fulham-southampton-leo-scienza-6571116

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Marco Silva says 'incredible' player who blew Arne Slot away will now miss Liverpool vs Fulham
Fulham will be without three injured first-team players as they travel to face Liverpool on Saturday evening, Marco Silva has confirmed.

The Cottagers will fancy their chances at Anfield having watched the Reds lose their past three matches.

They are also unbeaten against Liverpool in the past two meetings between the teams, with Harrison Reed's wonder-goal securing them a point at Craven Cottage in January. Three months on, Silva has declared that Reed will play no part on Saturday, along with Kenny Tete and Kevin.

Reed will not have a chance to repeat Liverpool heroics
Reed was the unlikely hero for Fulham during January's draw, scoring a last-gasp equaliser which Liverpool fans will not be forgetting any time soon.

Arne Slot was certainly impressed, hailing the 'incredible' nature of the strike immediately after the game.

But speaking in his pre-match press conference on Friday, Silva confirmed that Reed had picked up a knock leading up to the game and would therefore not get a chance to repeat his heroics.

"Harrison Reed is going to be out," the Portuguese said. "He got a knock two days ago in the session, in his knee. Doesn't look like anything really serious, but he's going to be out of the Liverpool game."

Silva also ruled out right-back Tete and Kevin, who provided the assist for Reed's stunner in January.

"Related with the [Liverpool] game, Kevin is going to be still out," he said. "Kenny in the same situation, too. There's something there, the foot, let's see.

"When he's going to be without pain, he's going to start to work with the team, and he's going to be, after a matter of time, back in a good fitness way and good physical condition, to be in contention for the games."

For Liverpool, they are slowly returning to better shape in terms of availability, but will be without long-term absentees Giovanni Leoni, Wataru Endo and Conor Bradley, along with Alisson Becker.



https://www.rousingthekop.com/2026/04/11/marco-silva-says-incredible-player-who-blew-arne-slot-away-will-now-miss-liverpool-clash/

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Liverpool accidentally sold player to Fulham after manager got confused
Liverpool accidentally sold a player to Fulham in 2010 after a case of mistaken identity, with manager Roy Hodgson confusing Alexander Kacaniklic for another academy player in the Paul Konchesky deal

Liverpool once mistakenly offloaded a player to Fulham — this Saturday's opposition — due to a case of mistaken identity.

The peculiar episode occurred in 2010, during Roy Hodgson's troubled tenure at Anfield. Hodgson, who turns 79 in August, is back in the news at the moment after returning to soccer management with Bristol City. After moving to the Reds from Fulham in 2010, Hodgson was keen to bring Paul Konchesky with him to Merseyside.

The two clubs ultimately struck an agreement, with Liverpool paying a transfer fee and sending two promising academy prospects, Lauri Dalla Vale and Alexander Kacaniklic. However, according to Kacaniklic, he wasn't meant to be part of the transaction, with Liverpool accidentally negotiating for the wrong player.

"Before I signed [for Fulham], I had a conversation with Roy Hodgson on the phone, where we found out that he had chosen the wrong Alex," the Swede revealed in 2019. "In his head, he thought he had sold another Alex for Konchesky. But then it was too late."

Upon realizing the blunder, Hodgson attempted to reverse the deal — but without success. "He [Hodgson] just told me I was welcome back in Liverpool with open arms," Kacaniklic recalled. "But by then I had already made my mind up and was very excited about coming to Fulham."

Hodgson succeeded Rafa Benitez at the club shortly after steering Fulham to the Europa League final, where the London club fell to Atletico Madrid. He ultimately secured just seven victories from his 20 matches in charge before departing the club by mutual consent in January 2011.

"When Roy Hodgson came to the club, it was a little different, a big change," Kacaniklic observed. "Benitez had been there before and made the club his own with everyone who worked at the club.

"When he left and took all his people with him, it became a bit turbulent. Hodgson didn't look so much at us youngsters, he wanted quick results."

Kacaniklic arrived at Liverpool aged 16 in 2007, spending three years developing through the academy system before departing for Fulham. At Craven Cottage, he racked up 100 appearances during a six-year period, subsequently moving to French side Nantes in 2016. The winger also represented Sweden on 21 occasions before hanging up his boots in 2025.

Hodgson, for his part, bounced back from his underwhelming Liverpool tenure with a successful period at West Bromwich Albion, earning him the England manager's position in 2012. His four-year reign encompassed three major international competitions.

Yet his team never progressed beyond a knockout round — making the quarterfinals at Euro 2012, crashing out during the group phase at the 2014 World Cup, and suffering an unexpected last-16 elimination against Iceland at Euro 2016.

The 78-year-old will undoubtedly be watching with interest this Saturday as his two former clubs face off. Liverpool enters the fixture looking to narrow the deficit to Aston Villa, who began the weekend holding a five-point advantage over them in fourth place.

Arne Slot's players have been enduring a difficult spell lately, having lost three consecutive matches to Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City and Brighton. They have also managed just two victories in their last eight fixtures across all competitions.

Fulham, by contrast, trails Liverpool by five points in the table and is in strong form. Marco Silva's players are mounting a late charge for European qualification, having secured three wins from their last five league outings.



https://www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc-news/features/liverpool-accidentally-sold-player-fulham-33752287

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Chris Sutton disagrees with Alan Shearer and Paul Merson on Liverpool vs Fulham prediction
Liverpool will be looking to end its losing streak as it returns to Premier League action against Fulham, although Chris Sutton disagrees with his fellow pundits on how the Reds will fare

Chris Sutton is expecting Liverpool's winless streak to continue as it returns to Premier League action against Fulham on Saturday.

The Reds have been in poor form on either side of the international break as their season continues to disappoint. Having been thrashed by Manchester City in the FA Cup last weekend, Arne Slot's side fell to a 2-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in midweek, leaving them a mountain to climb in their Champions League quarter-final.

Before it hosts the defending European champions at Anfield though, Liverpool will be aiming to get back on track in the league as it takes on a Fulham side with its own European aspirations.

The Reds currently occupy the final Champions League qualification spot, having been boosted this week by the Premier League securing another place for next season.

Given how tight things are in the table though, Liverpool is going to have to vastly improve on recent showings and send a message to its rivals by returning to winning ways against Fulham today.

Both Alan Shearer and Paul Merson have backed the Reds to do just that, which would come as a major boost ahead of Chelsea facing City on Sunday, with Liam Rosenior's side sitting just a point behind ahead of the weekend.

Former Blues striker Sutton doesn't fancy Liverpool's chances though, and is expecting the Reds to go a fourth league game without a win.

Predicting a 2-2 draw at Anfield, Sutton told BBC Sport: "It feels like a lot of Liverpool fans have made their minds up about Arne Slot, and that he needs to go.

"That still feels harsh to me - after all, Slot won the Premier League last season. Yes, this has been a disappointing campaign, but surely winning a title in your first year buys you some time?

"Liverpool are clearly not playing well at the moment, though. I've been thinking for a while now that they are going to get out of this slump because of the players they have got - but when you watch them there is nothing to suggest it will happen, and they have been so inconsistent for so long now."

Sutton added: "Fulham are a good side and I can see them causing Liverpool problems too, no matter what shape Slot goes with this time.

"It finished 2-2 when these two sides met at Craven Cottage in January, and I have a feeling there will be a few goals this time as well."

Liverpool will be hoping it can prove Sutton wrong as it begins what is set to be a decisive run of league games at the business end of the season.

The Reds are also set to face Everton and Crystal Palace before the end of the month, and will need all the momentum that can get before coming up against Manchester United, Chelsea and Aston Villa in May, with Brentford the final team to visit Anfield.



https://www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc-news/features/sutton-shearer-merson-liverpool-prediction-33751918

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Arne Slot's Liverpool v Fulham programme notes
Arne Slot previews the task for Liverpool against Fulham at Anfield today in his matchday programme notes.

After a Champions League defeat by Paris Saint-Germain in midweek in the first leg of their quarter-final, the Reds return to Premier League duty.

Head coach Slot says: "It is clear and obvious that for us this is a phase of the season which not only includes a number of challenging games in a short space of time, it is also one that will go a long way towards determining whether or not we can fulfil our remaining objectives.

"While I would be the first to admit that the season has not been the one we wanted, it still offers us opportunities – if we can take them.

"We know exactly what is still on offer to us and we also know how much effort we will have to put in and how well we will need to perform if we are to finish as strongly as we would like to.

"Today this means taking on a Fulham team who have their own objectives and who will come to Anfield looking to make things as difficult for us as always.

"I am sure that no-one will need to be reminded of the last time we faced Fulham in the Premier League because that was a day when we showed so much character and quality to put ourselves within touching distance of a vital win only for it to be snatched away from us in the very last seconds.

"This is credit to them, of course, and it was also typical of the way Marco Silva's team play because they always give us a proper test and, as that occasion showed, they are the kind of opponent who will look to push you all the way.

"For us, though, that game should give us another incentive to go one step further today and we can do this if we use that disappointment and the knowledge of how it came about as an incentive.

"We also have to do something even more important and that is to not be distracted in any way, shape or form by the fact that we have another vital fixture coming in three days' time.

"The second leg against Paris Saint-Germain can wait. It would serve us no purpose to think about it now or even to look back too much on what happened in the first leg.

"This is the Premier League – a totally different competition – and if we are to give ourselves the best possible chance of qualifying for next season's Champions League, we have to give it our full attention and not get involved in thinking about what else is on the horizon.

"This is why we constantly tell ourselves that it is always about taking one game at a time. Any other approach would be a mistake, particularly when each match we play has so much riding on it, as is true of this stage of the season.

"We also owe it to our supporters to give this game and nothing else our full attention, particularly after the disappointing results we have had lately.

"I know a lot was said about some of our fans choosing to leave early at Manchester City last weekend, but I always say it is up to us to perform in a way that keeps them involved. Doing that is key in every game we play and this is something that is even more true at Anfield, where our supporters can – and so often do – make such a massive difference.

"On this note, I would like to thank our fans who travelled to Paris in midweek for the backing they gave us. When I went to the side of the pitch during our warm-up the first song I heard from the away end was 'We love you Liverpool, we do.'

"This said everything to me, particularly after the disappointment of our performance and result at City.

"So the onus is on us to perform for you. This has been easier said than done so far this season of course, but hopefully today we can do what is required before moving on to the next challenge."

https://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/arne-slots-liverpool-v-fulham-programme-notes

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Marco Silva shares his thoughts on Liverpool's recent struggles

Marco Silva Issues Clear Warning to Liverpool Ahead of Anfield Clash
Liverpool head into a crucial Premier League fixture against Fulham under growing scrutiny, with recent results raising questions about consistency under Arne Slot. A run of three straight defeats has disrupted momentum, yet expectation around the club remains unchanged. At Anfield, the demand is always for a response.

From Fulham's perspective, this is a moment filled with possibility, but not complacency. Marco Silva has struck a measured tone ahead of the trip, acknowledging Liverpool's dip while refusing to assume any advantage.

Liverpool Form Under Pressure
Liverpool's defeats against Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City and Brighton & Hove Albion have created an unfamiliar narrative around the reigning Premier League champions. Fatigue, squad rotation and the intensity of competing across multiple competitions have all played a part.

Slot has already hinted that changes may be necessary, particularly with player workload becoming a factor. Even so, Liverpool at Anfield remain a different proposition, especially when urgency replaces rhythm.

Fulham are fully aware of that reality.

Marco Silva Reaction To Liverpool Struggles
Speaking via Fulhamfc.com, Silva addressed Liverpool's recent form with a pragmatic outlook.

"Of course, all the clubs, they have ups and downs. In a big club, any defeat probably hurts more."

It is a sentiment rooted in experience. Silva understands the scrutiny that surrounds elite sides, and the speed at which narratives can shift. His focus, however, is on how Liverpool respond.

"It's part of a season. And, of course, it's always the way you are going to react for the bad moments that is going to be decisive."

Those words reflect caution rather than optimism. Fulham are preparing for a reaction, not a repeat of Liverpool's recent shortcomings.

Fulham Opportunity Against Liverpool
There is no denying the opportunity in front of Fulham. Three consecutive defeats suggest vulnerability, at least on the surface. Silva acknowledged as much, while also highlighting the uncertainty surrounding how those results will influence the upcoming match.

"They lost three games in a row in different competitions, and if it's going to have an impact or not in the game, we don't know."

That uncertainty defines this fixture. Liverpool could arrive fatigued and fragile, or re-energised and clinical. History at Anfield suggests the latter is often the case.

Fulham's approach, therefore, must balance ambition with discipline. Any lapse could be punished quickly, particularly if Liverpool find early momentum.

Anfield Factor And Match Outlook
Anfield remains one of the defining elements in fixtures like this. The crowd, the tempo and the sense of occasion can shift the balance within minutes. Slot has already emphasised the importance of supporters, especially during challenging periods.

For Liverpool, this is about reaffirming standards. For Fulham, it is about testing them at a moment of doubt.

Silva's assessment captures that balance. Liverpool may be experiencing a dip, but they remain, in his words, a "very, very good side." That acknowledgement ensures Fulham arrive prepared, rather than expectant.

The outcome may hinge less on recent form and more on mentality. Liverpool's response, Fulham's belief, and the influence of Anfield will shape a contest that feels finely poised despite appearances.



https://anfieldindex.com/93089/marco-silva-shares-his-thoughts-on-liverpools-recent-struggles.html

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5 Key Things To Watch: Liverpool vs Fulham
Liverpool FC return to action against Fulham FC in what feels like a massive game for their season.

Here are five key things to keep an eye on:

1️⃣ A Must-Win In The Top Four Race

There's no getting away from it now.

This is a must-win game in the fight for a Champions League spot.

Dropped points here would:

Increase pressure Damage confidence further Put rivals in control

👉 Liverpool simply have to deliver.

2️⃣ How Will Fan Protests Impact The Atmosphere?

With protests planned by supporters, the mood inside Anfield could be very different.

The big question is:

👉 Does it lift the team or create tension?

Fan frustration has been building, and how that energy translates on matchday could play a big role.

3️⃣ Will Slot Rotate With PSG In Mind?

Arne Slot has a huge decision to make.

With Paris Saint-Germain coming up again on Tuesday, does he:

Rotate to keep players fresh Or go full strength in a must-win league game?

It's a delicate balance — and one that could define the week.

4️⃣ Does Isak Finally Start?

All eyes will be on Alexander Isak.

After returning from injury and getting minutes against PSG, many fans feel:

👉 This is the moment he should start

Liverpool need a focal point — and Isak could be exactly that.

5️⃣ Salah Back In?

Perhaps the biggest talking point...

Will Mohamed Salah return to the starting XI after being surprisingly left out midweek?

Dropping him raised serious questions — and how Slot responds now is huge.

👉 Bring him back, or stick with his decision?

🔥 The Bottom Line

This isn't just another game.

It's:

A must-win A pressure test A defining moment in Liverpool's season

And how they respond today could shape everything that follows.

Jamie (The Kopite View)



https://thekopiteview.com/2026/04/11/5-key-things-to-watch-liverpool-vs-fulham/

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