Fresh from the disappointment of a West London derby defeat, Fulham FC head to St Mary’s Stadium on Saturday determined to reignite their European charge. Marco Silva’s men, ninth in the Premier League and just a point behind eighth-placed Bournemouth, know that every moment counts now with five games left to play.
The 2-1 loss to Chelsea was tough to take — a match where Fulham dominated the first half but were punished for not killing the game off. Silva acknowledged the pain but also the need to stay focused: “The result was very harsh for us. In the Premier League, when you are on top, you have to be more ruthless.”
Now, Fulham face a Southampton side already relegated, but still dangerous. Interim manager Simon Rusk has kept the Saints organised and compact, holding West Ham to a 1-1 draw last weekend. Silva warned that Fulham cannot take anything for granted: “It doesn’t matter if they are relegated. If we want the three points, we have to perform at a very high level.”
Injuries continue to complicate Fulham’s task. Rodrigo Muniz is ruled out and could miss more games, while Emile Smith Rowe is close to returning. Harry Wilson is back and available, offering a major boost to Silva’s options in attack. The manager underlined how important it is to “embrace the pressure as a privilege” at this stage of the season.
Best-ever points?
There’s history on the line, too. Fulham are just five points away from matching their best-ever Premier League points tally — and six from setting a new club record. Silva’s vision has been clear from day one: target the top half of the table and fight for more. Now, Fulham have a chance to turn an already strong season into something truly special.
“We have to stay united, keep fighting, and believe we can do even better,” Silva said. “The fans should be proud of the team. We want to finish strong.”
The mission is clear: bounce back, make history, and stay in the hunt for Europe.
Head-to-Head stats
- Fulham FC has just one win in 22 visits to St Mary’s although they won there in May 2023.
- Total Meetings: 80. Fulham wins: 24; Southampton: 30; draws: 26
- Last Meeting: December 2024 – Fulham 0-0 Southampton
Prediction
Fulham are determined to bounce back after a tough derby defeat and have real incentives to finish strongly. Southampton, while dangerous and unburdened by pressure, are still fragile. Fulham’s motivation and superior quality should see them through.
Predicted Score: Southampton 1-2 Fulham
Fun fact: Fulham FC will wear their purple third kit for only the third time this season.
Kick-off at St Mary’s is at 3pm on Saturday.
