Fulham look to make it five Premier League wins on a trot on Sunday evening when they make the trip to St. James’ Park to face high-flying Newcastle United.
The Cottagers climbed up to sixth in the table with their superb 2-1 win over West London rivals Chelsea in midweek and they now sit just four points behind third-placed Newcastle United. Their success over Chelsea was the fifth straight victory across all competitions, as Marco Silva’s men continue to impress in what is their first season back in the top flight after gaining promotion last summer.
On the back of five wins in all competitions, Silva’s Fulham will travel to Newcastle in high spirits and confidence.
Fulham Team News
Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic returns from a one-match suspension to face his former employers, but left-back Antonee Robinson is banned for accumulating five yellow cards in the 2-1 win over Chelsea.
Meanwhile, Neeskens Kebano (Achilles) remains out and Shane Duffy is a doubt due to illness.
Predicted Fulham Lineup vs Newcastle (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Bernd Leno had an excellent game against Chelsea, making a series of good saves to help Fulham claim the West London bragging rights. He may have to perform at a similar level again when the Cottagers travel to Newcastle.
Defence
Tosin Adarabioyo and Tim Ream should continue working at the heart of Fulham’s defence, as the duo look to keep a dangerous Newcastle attack at bay. Kenny Tete is expected to keep his place at right-back, while Layvin Kurzawa should deputise for the suspended Robinson at left-back.
If Shane Duffy recovers from illness, he will be an option on the bench offering cover for defensive positions along with Issa Diop.
Midfield
Harrison Reed came off during the second half against Chelsea, which could be a move to keep him fresh and fit for the trip to Newcastle. He is expected to start again and form the double pivot with Joao Palhinha in the middle of the park for Fulham.
Andreas Pereira has been one of Fulham’s star performers this season, acting as the glue between midfield and attack. He will keep his place in the No.10 role, hoping to breach a well-drilled Newcastle defence with his incisive passing and pin-point deliveries.
Tom Cairney and Nathaniel Chalobah will settle on the bench again and they might come on to influence the game in the second half if Marco Silva opts to call upon their services.
Attack
Carlos Vinicius impressed and scored the winner against Chelsea at home in midweek, but he could make way for Aleksandar Mitrovic, who is again available after serving a one-game suspension. Mitrovic should spearhead the Fulham attack, with Willian and Bobby Reid offering pace and drive from wide areas.
If the Cottagers are in need of more spark in attack, Silva will have the likes of Daniel James, Carlos Vinicius and Harry Wilson to call from the bench.