Form Guide: A Tale of Two Teams

Fulham travels to Leeds with significant momentum. In fact, they have been one of the league’s in-form sides recently, taking 14 points from their last 18 available. Their away form is particularly impressive. The Cottagers are unbeaten in their last four Premier League games on the road, winning three of them.

However, Leeds United presents a different challenge at home. Despite being winless in their last four league matches, Elland Road remains a fortress. The Whites are unbeaten in their last four home games. Furthermore, they have been prolific in front of their own fans, scoring a remarkable 11 goals during that run. This clash pits Fulham’s strong away record against Leeds’ powerful home advantage.

Head-to-Head: Recent History Favours Fulham

Historically, this fixture has been closely contested. Across 64 meetings in all competitions, Leeds holds the edge with 26 wins to Fulham’s 23, along with 15 draws. This long-term record tells only part of the story, though.

Recently, Fulham has completely dominated this matchup. They have won their last four meetings against Leeds, including a tight 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture back in September. Consequently, the psychological edge may lie with the visitors. Leeds will be desperate to break this streak and reassert themselves in the rivalry, especially in front of a passionate home crowd.

Team News and Key Players to Watch

Both managers have important team selection decisions to make. Injuries and new signings could play a pivotal role in the outcome.

Leeds United Update

Daniel Farke has received a significant boost on the injury front. The following players are expected to be available for selection:

• Sebastiaan Bornauw
• Joe Rodon
• Gabriel Gudmundsson
• Jayden Bogle

In addition, new signing Facundo Buonanotte could make his debut after joining on loan. The only confirmed absentee is former Fulham loanee Dan James, who is recovering from an injury. Keep an eye on Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has scored eight goals in his last nine games.

Fulham FC Update

For the visitors, some key players remain unavailable. Kenny Tete and Rodrigo Muniz are still sidelined with injuries. However, Josh King might be fit enough to return to the squad.

Fulham will also be without Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, and Samuel Chukwueze, who are expected back from international duty after this match. Harry Wilson remains their primary goal threat, leading their scoring charts with seven goals. Head Coach Marco Silva shared his thoughts on the trip in his official preview.

A Special Atmosphere at Elland Road

The match is completely sold out, promising an electric atmosphere. Around 2,500 travelling Fulham fans will make the trip north.

Before kick-off, there will be a minute of applause to celebrate the life of club legend Terry Yorath, who recently passed away. Players from both teams will wear black armbands as a mark of respect. A further tribute will be held in the 67th minute for supporter Colin Wood. These moments will undoubtedly add to the poignant and passionate atmosphere inside the stadium.

Conclusion

This match has all the ingredients of a classic Premier League encounter. Fulham’s superb form and recent dominance in this fixture make them a formidable opponent. However, Leeds United’s powerful record at Elland Road, coupled with a returning squad, cannot be underestimated. The home crowd will be a massive factor as they urge their team to reverse the recent trend against the Cottagers. Expect a competitive and hard-fought battle in West Yorkshire on Saturday.