Fulham vs Liverpool Preview: Slot Admits Reds Are Not Chasing Title Contenders

London, January 4, 2026 – Fulham host Liverpool at Craven Cottage in a crucial Premier League Round 20 clash on Sunday at 15:00 UTC, as the Reds aim to climb the table under manager Arne Slot.[3][6]

Liverpool sit 4th with 33 points from 19 games (10 wins, 3 draws, 6 losses, +4 goal difference), trailing leaders Aston Villa (39 points) and chasing Chelsea and Manchester United (both 30).[1] Fulham lurk in 11th with 27 points (8-3-8, -1 GD), level with Brentford and Crystal Palace.[1][2]

Team Form and Key Players

Fulham's recent results show resilience: draws 1-1 at Crystal Palace (Jan 1), wins 1-0 at West Ham (Dec 27) and 1-0 vs Nottingham Forest (Dec 22), but losses like 2-1 at Newcastle.[2] Top scorers include Harry Wilson (5 goals, 4 assists) and Raul Jiménez (4 goals).[1][2] Hugo Ekitike leads with 8 goals, 3 assists; Samuel Chukwueze rates highest at 6.7.[2] Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, Andersen, Cuenca, Robinson; Lukic, Berge; Wilson, Smith Rowe, Kevin; Jiménez.[3]

Liverpool drew 0-0 vs Leeds (Jan 1) but won convincingly: 2-1 vs Wolves, 2-1 at Tottenham, 2-0 vs Brighton.[2] Standouts: Mohamed Salah (key forward, 3 assists in 14 games), Alexis Mac Allister (2 assists).[1] Harvey Elliott rates 6.4.[2]

Head-to-Head and Injury News

Past meetings favor Liverpool: 3-1 win at Fulham (Apr 2024), 2-1 Fulham win in Carabao Cup (Jan 2024).[1] Odds list Liverpool as favorites (-129), over 2.5 goals +100.[2]

Fulham defender Kenny Tete is doubtful with a hamstring issue pending scan; manager Marco Silva awaits results.[2]

Slot's Title Admission

Arne Slot candidly stated Liverpool are not yet title contenders, focusing on consistency amid a congested schedule. Fulham's Marco Silva eyes home upset, banking on Wilson's form and Craven Cottage atmosphere.[1][3]

Expect a tactical battle: Fulham's counter-attacks vs Liverpool's possession game. Live stats promise xG, shots, and momentum insights.[3] (298 words)