Fulham and Leeds United will battle it out on Friday night at Craven Cottage in the Premier League. Leeds won the reverse fixture in an entertaining goal-fest, as they narrowly beat the Cottagers 4-3 in September last year.
But, heading into Friday’s fixture, the hosts are the team in form as they have won two of their last five fixtures, one of which was against defending champions Liverpool. Leeds, meanwhile, have lost three of their last five Premier League games.
Let’s take a look at 3 key battles that could decide the outcome of the match between Fulham and Leeds United.
Fulham vs Leeds United – 3 Key Battles
#1 Ademola Lookman vs Luke Ayling
Fulham attacker Ademola Lookman has been one of their best players this season as his pace, trickery and passing has brought him four goals and three assists in the league.
He will most likely start on the left side of Fulham’s attack on Friday night and take on Leeds right-back Luke Ayling.
Ayling is a tenacious and quick defender, who likes to put in strong tackles, while also bombing forward at every opportunity. Lookman will have to offer a threat going forward, while also keep Ayling in his own half.
#2 Raphinha vs Ola Aina
Raphinha in action for Leeds United
Leeds winger Raphinha has had a strong season from the wings, as Lookman has done for Fulham.
The speedy Brazilian has been a big threat to opposing defences from the right side and he has chipped in with five goals and five assists this season.
The 24-year-old will be up against Ola Aina, who should start at left-back for Scott Parker’s side.
Aina, too, can be a goal threat, and we could see a lot of action on that side of the pitch with the likes of Lookman, Ayling, Raphinha and Aina fighting it out.
#3 Tyler Roberts vs Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa
Tyler Roberts had a decent game last time around against Chelsea and the Leeds midfielder could keep his place in the starting XI due to the absence of Pablo Hernandez. Roberts likes to drive forward with the ball at his feet and link with the striker.
He will be up against Fulham’s midfield strongman Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa who is a strong and physical player, and can contribute in attack and defence.
Anguissa, too, likes to drive forward with the ball, and we could see Roberts and the Fulham midfielder clash in the middle of the park.