The Daily Star Ireland
Fulham enters the next few months in a comfortable position in the Premier League, sitting safely in mid-table and not needing to worry about relegation. In fact, they could even set their sights on European competition if they can maintain strong form, as they are just 3 points behind the top 5. Before their tough Boxing Day match against Chelsea, Fulham had been unbeaten in their last five matches, including a 3-1 victory over Brighton and draws against Arsenal (1-1), Liverpool (2-2), and Southampton (0-0).
Meanwhile, Bournemouth is also enjoying a solid season. In just their third consecutive year in the Premier League, the Cherries are in 5th place and have been in good form recently, winning four of their last five games. Their victories include impressive results against Wolverhampton (2-4), Bournemouth (1-0), Ipswich (1-2), West Ham (1-1), and Manchester United (0-3). They will look to continue their strong run when they face Crystal Palace on Boxing Day.
For Fulham, there are a few notable absences. Midfielder Reed, winger Nelson (who has scored 2 goals), and former Lyon player Tete are all unavailable. Key midfielders Smith-Rowe, Berge, and Lukic are uncertain, with hopes that they will be fit for the Boxing Day match. Up front, Iwobi and Jimenez, both with five Premier League goals this season, will be Fulham’s main offensive threats, along with Smith-Rowe (3 goals).
Bournemouth will also be without several players, including defenders Araujo and Senesi, midfielder Scott, and wingers Tavernier (1 goal, 4 assists) and Sinisterra (1 goal). Captain Smith is also uncertain, as he has been dealing with an injury. In attack, Evanilson (4 goals), Semenyo (5 goals), and Kluivert (6 goals) are the key players to watch, while Ünal has been less influential this season with only 2 goals.
Prediction
Fulham’s recent home form has been poor, with seven losses in their last ten home matches and a concerning 19 goals conceded in those defeats. In contrast, Bournemouth has been performing well on the road, with four wins from nine away matches, showing they can compete in the league.
Prediction: Fulham 1 – 2 Bournemouth
