Crystal Palace and Fulham are set to face each other in an all-London derby at Selhurst Park on Saturday afternoon, with both teams hoping to secure a crucial win.
The Eagles are coming off a disappointing 3-1 loss against Aston Villa, while Fulham managed to scrape past Luton Town with a narrow 1-0 victory.
Match Preview
Despite their recent loss, Crystal Palace has been playing well and currently sits in ninth place in the Premier League standings, with aspirations for a top-half finish.
However, their recent defensive struggles could pose a challenge as they’ve allowed seven goals in their last three games in all competitions.
Nonetheless, they have made Selhurst Park a fortress, losing just three of their last 15 home matches, with Manchester City, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur being the only teams to leave with all three points.
On the other hand, Fulham finds themselves level on points with Crystal Palace, but in 10th place due to their inferior goal difference.
Inconsistency has been a major issue for the Cottagers, especially on the road.
However, they will be buoyed by their recent win against Everton and their recent 3-0 victory over Palace last year on Boxing Day.
Team News
Jordan Ayew’s availability for this game remains uncertain as he was forced off early in their last match due to a thigh injury.
Other notable absentees for Palace include Michael Olise, Matheus Franca, Jefferson Lerma, and James Tomkins.
Meanwhile, Fulham will be without Tosin Adarabioyo and Antonee Robinson due to muscular injuries, while Sasa Lukic is also doubtful.
Possible Starting Lineups
Crystal Palace:
Johnstone;
Ward, Andersen, Guehi, Mitchell;
Hughes, Doucoure;
Ayew, Eze, Schlupp;
Edouard.
Fulham:
Leno;
Tete, Diop, Ream, Castagne;
Reed, Palhinha;
Wilson, Pereira, Iwobi;
Vinicius.
Prediction
This game is set to be a close one, with both sides looking to claim all three points. However, given Crystal Palace’s recent home form, we predict they will be able to hold Fulham to a 1-1 draw.