Survival on the line as Southampton host Fulham

Fulham travel to the south coast to take on Southampton at St Mary’s with the feeling among both fanbases that a defeat is the end of the road for them in the Premier League.

Claudio Ranieri masterminded a 3-2 win over Southampton in his first game as Fulham manager, with a double from Aleksandar Mitrovic helping give the Cottagers hope of steering clear of relegation. But form never picked up and Fulham find themselves eight points adrift of safety.

Ralph Hassenhuttl also provided a mini resurgence when he took over as Southampton manager. Wins over Arsenal and Everton seemed to give the fanbase confidence of comfortable survival. But recent draws with Burnley, Crystal Palace and a dismal loss at home to Cardiff have seen the Saints drop back into the relegation zone.

Hassenhuttl is struggling for striking options due to injuries. Danny Ings continues to struggle for fitness, currently out with a hamstring injury and not expected back until March. Young Irish striker Micheal Obafemi also has a hamstring problem which flared up just 20 minutes into his return from the same injury against Arsenal. Mario Lemina is still recovering from an abdominal injury.

Ranieri meanwhile, is without central defender Alfie Mawson who is struggling with a knee injury. The former Swansea man is expected back before the season end, but a date is yet to be confirmed. Fulham are also missing Marcus Bettinelli who is struggling with a knock whilst Andre Schurrle is suffering from a virus, but may be back in time for the trip to Southampton.

A Southampton win would give the club and the fans confidence of survival, with games against fellow strugglers Newcastle and Brighton still to come. But a loss would put the Saints on the back foot for survival, relying on results all over the country to fall in their favour. Fulham need to win to stand any chance of staying in the Premier League, a loss would be the final nail in the coffin for Ranieri’s side and planning for the Championship will begin.