Liverpool Lineups for Fulham: Florian Wirtz and Rio Ngumoha Decisions Made

Ahead of Liverpool's Premier League clash against Fulham on January 4, 2026, at Craven Cottage, manager Arne Slot has finalized key lineup decisions, including the involvement of Florian Wirtz and young prospect Rio Ngumoha, amid injury challenges and rotation needs.[1][2]

Fulham's Predicted Lineup and Team News

Fulham, sitting mid-table, will field a 4-2-3-1 formation: Bernd Leno in goal; Timothy Castagne, Joachim Andersen, Jorge Cuenca, Antonee Robinson at the back; Sasa Lukic and Sander Berge in midfield; Harry Wilson, Emile Smith Rowe, Kevin, and Raul Jimenez up top.[1][2][3] Harry Wilson, Fulham's top scorer with 4 goals and 4 assists, is in fine form with 4 goal involvements in his last 7 home games.[1][3]

Absences include Nigerian stars Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze on AFCON duty, plus injuries to Josh King (knee), Kenny Tete (hamstring), Ryan Sessegnon, and Rodrigo Muniz.[2][3]

Liverpool's Predicted Lineup and Key Decisions

Liverpool opts for a 4-2-3-1: Alisson Becker (GK); Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister or Curtis Jones; Dominik Szoboszlai, Jeremie Frimpong or Wirtz, Cody Gakpo; Hugo Ekitike.[1][2][3][4] Slot confirms Florian Wirtz is available despite a minor hamstring issue, potentially starting or subbing in on the right.[2] Rio Ngumoha, the highly-rated youngster, earns a bench spot after impressing in training, with Slot praising his readiness for senior minutes amid a packed schedule.[4]

Long-term absentees: Alexander Isak (ankle), Giovanni Leoni (ACL), Mohamed Salah (AFCON), Wataru Endo (ankle).[2][3] Joe Gomez is back in contention, while Gakpo and Kerkez push for starts on the left, and Szoboszlai shifts centrally for balance ahead of midweek Arsenal tie.[2][4]

Match Context

Liverpool aims to extend their title push against a Fulham side buoyed by Wilson's form. Predictions favor a Reds win (2-1), with betting tips highlighting over 2.5 goals.[1] Slot's rotation balances fatigue and form in this crucial fixture.[2]

(Word count: 298)