The stage is set for a pulsating London derby, with Tottenham looking to maintain momentum at home while Fulham seek redemption after a disappointing loss. Who will come out on top? Mark Lawrenson gives his score prediction.
The stakes could not be higher for the Lilywhites
Tottenham Hotspur return to Premier League action on Sunday in what promises to be a fiercely contested London derby against Fulham.
Coming off the back of a thumping 4-0 victory over Manchester City, Spurs had shown glimpses of their potential; however, their inconsistency was laid bare once again when they were held to a 2-2 draw by Roma in midweek Europa League action.
Ange Postecoglou’s side currently find themselves sixth in the Premier League table, a position that underscores their mixed fortunes this season.
With just three points separating them from third and a solitary point keeping them ahead of Fulham, the stakes for this fixture could not be higher.
A win could propel Spurs as high as third, depending on other results, but a loss would see Fulham leapfrog them, intensifying the pressure on Postecoglou and his squad.
Fulham, for their part, are nursing wounds after a humbling 4-1 defeat to Wolves last weekend. Despite that setback, Marco Silva’s men have been a resilient force throughout the campaign.
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Sitting ninth and just four points behind Arsenal in fourth, they remain firmly in the hunt for European football, which adds an extra layer of significance to this clash.
Lawrenson’s verdict on Tottenham vs Fulham
Former Liverpool defender and pundit Mark Lawrenson has weighed in on the upcoming fixture, offering his insights on what could unfold at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
In his prediction, as relayed by paddypower.news, Lawrenson noted, “I know what they’re like but you have to back Tottenham after they destroyed Manchester City 4-0 last week.
“This will be another good game, quite a lot of the fixtures this week look like good contests. Fulham are well coached but Spurs are good at home. Tottenham 2-1 Fulham.”
While Lawrenson acknowledges Fulham’s tactical organisation under Silva, he ultimately believes that Tottenham’s home advantage and attacking prowess, will tip the balance in their favour.
What we think: Can Fulham upset Spurs
Lawrenson’s prediction of a narrow 2-1 victory seems plausible, particularly given Tottenham’s form at home and their attacking quality spearheaded by Heung-min Son and James Maddison. However, Spurs’ defensive frailties have been exposed on more than one occasion this season, which could give Fulham reason for optimism.
Ultimately, while Tottenham may be favourites on paper, this clash has all the makings of a tightly fought contest. Whether Postecoglou’s men can deliver under pressure or whether Fulham can capitalise on Spurs’ inconsistencies remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – fans are in for an enthralling derby.