Fulham is currently positioned 8th in the Premier League, just one point behind 6th place, and remains in the hunt for a European qualification spot.
The team has displayed resilience, losing only one of their last eight league matches, which included three wins and four draws.
Their only loss was a surprising defeat to relegation-threatened Wolverhampton (1-4), but they bounced back quickly, drawing at Tottenham (1-1) and defeating Brighton (3-1). They also secured draws against top-tier teams Arsenal (1-1) and Liverpool (2-2) in their most recent matches.
In contrast, Southampton is struggling in their return to the Premier League, sitting at the bottom of the table with just 5 points from 16 games. Their chances of avoiding relegation appear slim, as they are 9 points away from safety.
Their only win this season came in early November against Everton (1-0), but since then, they have endured one draw and five losses, including heavy defeats to Chelsea (1-5), Aston Villa (0-1), and Tottenham (0-5). This last loss led to the sacking of manager Russell Martin.
Fulham will be without key players such as defender Andersen, winger Nelson, and midfielder Reed. Cairney remains suspended, though the team is boosted by the return of defender Bassey.
Striker Rodrigo Muniz, who scored in the previous match, is likely to start on the bench, with Raul Jimenez expected to take the starting role. Winger Iwobi and playmaker Andreas Pereira are both available for selection.
Southampton will also be missing several players, including goalkeepers Ramsdale and Bazunu, along with long-term absentees Larios and Smallbone. Striker Stewart is also out, but Captain Stephens has returned from suspension. Southampton has the weakest attack in the league, and their defense is ranked 19th.
Prediction
Given Southampton’s poor away form this season, with only one point from 17 possible and a negative goal difference of 12-3, Fulham is likely to take advantage of their struggles. Fulham, having won 12 of their last 18 home matches, is expected to secure a 2-0 victory.
