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The Premier League never pauses for breath and as the calendar turns to 2026, Liverpool head to Craven Cottage for a tricky away test against Fulham. On paper, this looks like a routine fixture for the reigning champions. In reality, it is anything but. Injuries, international absences and relentless scheduling mean this Sunday afternoon showdown has all the ingredients for a tense and defining contest. With both managers speaking candidly ahead of kick-off, team news now emerging and recent form offering plenty to unpack, this Fulham vs Liverpool preview dives deep into everything you need to know.
Fulham vs Liverpool: Match Details and Context
Liverpool travel to west London for their first away match of 2026, with kick-off set for 3pm GMT on Sunday at Craven Cottage. The Reds come into the game following a frustrating 0-0 draw with Leeds United at Anfield on New Year’s Day, while Fulham were held to a 1-1 draw away at Crystal Palace.
While neither side found winning form in their last outing, the wider context of this match makes it hugely significant. Liverpool are navigating a congested fixture list, while Fulham are battling injuries and international call-ups as they try to maintain momentum in mid-table.
Liverpool Team News: Joe Gomez Boost but Endo Still Out
There is cautious optimism around Liverpool’s defensive options ahead of the Fulham match. Joe Gomez could return to contention after missing the last three games with a muscle injury. Head coach Arne Slot confirmed he expected Gomez to return to training on Friday, a welcome boost given the physical demands of the schedule.
However, Wataru Endo remains unavailable. The midfielder is still recovering from the ankle issue he picked up in early December and is not yet ready to rejoin the squad. Speaking after the Leeds draw, Slot said he had no new injury concerns and highlighted the importance of managing minutes carefully during this demanding period.
Why Florian Wirtz Was Substituted Against Leeds
One of the talking points from Liverpool’s goalless draw was the decision to substitute Florian Wirtz in the second half. Slot addressed the situation directly, offering insight into the physical toll on his squad. Wirtz had felt discomfort in his hamstring just two days after the Wolves match and was unable to train fully until Wednesday. With limited Premier League experience available on the bench, Slot opted to avoid unnecessary risk.
Cody Gakpo was brought on as a like-for-like replacement, underlining Liverpool’s depth in attacking areas. Slot emphasised that these decisions are about protecting players across a season that has already included months of non-stop football.
A Clean Sheet and Quiet Positives for Liverpool
While the scoreline against Leeds frustrated supporters, Slot was keen to focus on the positives. Liverpool kept a clean sheet, avoided suspensions and came through the match without additional injuries. Ibrahima Konate, in particular, avoided a yellow card that would have ruled him out of the Fulham match. In a season where availability is becoming as important as form, these small wins could prove decisive.
AFCON Absences Hit Liverpool Hard
Liverpool will be without Mohamed Salah, who is away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations. His absence is significant, not just for goals but for leadership and consistency in the final third. Alexander Isak and Giovanni Leoni also remain long-term absentees, further limiting Slot’s options. These missing pieces place even more emphasis on squad rotation and tactical discipline at Craven Cottage.
Fulham Injury News: Marco Silva Faces Selection Headaches
Fulham’s preparations have been disrupted by a growing injury list. Josh King and Kenny Tete are both major doubts and are expected to miss the game. Marco Silva confirmed the likelihood of their absence during his pre-match press conference. Ryan Sessegnon is also unavailable, with the Liverpool fixture coming too soon for his return. Rodrigo Muniz remains sidelined with injury, leaving Fulham short of attacking depth. To make matters worse, Calvin Bassey, Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi are all away at AFCON, joining Salah in international duty.
Marco Silva’s Respectful Warning to Liverpool
Despite Fulham’s absences, Silva remains clear-eyed about the challenge ahead and quietly confident in his team’s ability to compete. He acknowledged Liverpool’s quality and pedigree, pointing out their strong reaction and improved results in recent weeks. Silva also noted that while Liverpool would have expected to beat Leeds, the Premier League offers no easy games. With a short turnaround between fixtures for both sides, Silva believes adaptability and focus will be key in what he described as a “new game and a new story.”
Predicted Lineups Based on Last Match Fulham Last Match XI vs Crystal Palace
Leno |Tete |Andersen |Cuenca |Robinson |Lukic |Berge |Smith Rowe |Wilson |Kevin |Jimenez
Liverpool Last Match XI vs Leeds United
Alisson |Bradley |Konate |Van Dijk |Robertson |Gravenberch |Jones |Szoboszlai |Frimpong |Wirtz |Ekitike
Changes are expected for both sides, especially with rotation likely given the physical demands of the festive period.
Key Battles That Could Decide the Game
The midfield contest will be crucial. Liverpool’s ability to control possession through Szoboszlai and Gravenberch will test Fulham’s structure, particularly with Berge and Lukic tasked with breaking up play. At the back, Fulham’s centre-halves face a stern test against Liverpool’s movement and pressing. Without Salah, responsibility falls on players like Wirtz, Ekitike and Gakpo to provide creativity and cutting edge.
Why This Match Matters More Than It Seems
For Liverpool, this is about momentum. Dropping points away from home can quickly shift the tone of a title race. For Fulham, this is a chance to make a statement against the champions and prove they can compete despite adversity. Craven Cottage has been a difficult venue for visiting teams in the past, and Fulham will sense opportunity in Liverpool’s absences and fatigue.
Final Thoughts: Expect Drama by the Thames
Fulham vs Liverpool may not carry the glamour of a top-of-the-table clash, but it promises intrigue, intensity and fine margins. Injuries, international duty and fixture congestion have leveled the playing field more than usual. If Liverpool navigate this challenge successfully, it could be a defining moment in their campaign. If Fulham seize the moment, it may become one of the stories of the season. One thing is certain. Sunday afternoon by the Thames will be anything but predictable.
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Thank you for your continued support, and let’s cheer Liverpool on to success in the upcoming match. Your thoughts are always welcome in the comments section. For further insights, you may explore the official Liverpool FC website by clicking here.
YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com