Tonight’s live clash between Fulham and Wigan will be met by some as dull and dreary. But for Fulham this is a chance to show what they are truely made of with a full team.
Fulham’s excellent home form this season has seen them effectively avoid a relegation scrap this term without really lighting up the Premiership with their away form.
They will be playing not only for some pride but because, for the first time this season, Coleman can put out a full strength side, and for once, the viewing public can judge what the Cottagers are really about.
Ray Houghton
‘If Fulham can put a run together for the last four games, subject to other results, it could still result in a respectable finishing position. But that said, you have to look at the form over the season as a whole – I’m sure Chris is already aware of both the positives and negatives this season and the away form must be really puzzling him, purely because it’s been so different from the home form.
‘Fulham have got to be looking to beat Wigan on Monday night. Wigan have been the surprise story of the Premiership and are riding high in the League. But when I look at their side, I don’t see any superstars. They’re a workman like team that are hard to break down, and they are very, very fit.
‘I know that their training sessions are all carried out at a very high intensity every single day. But if we can mach them on that front, Fulham certainly have the ability to give them problems. Added to that, the players should want to finish on a high anyway – both for the Club and themselves.
‘They should want to show the fans that there’s something to look forward to next season, and they should never forget that the manager will be already making his plans for next season. So there is every incentive for Fulham on Monday, and for the rest of the remaining games.’
Fulham Team News:
The only injury doubt for Fulham is Carlos Bocanegra which means Coleman is likely to use Phillippe Christanval in his place to partner Zat Knight in defence. Michael Brown is completing a three match suspension.
Vital predicted line-up: Niemi, Rosenior, Bridge, Christanval, Knight, Boa Morte, Malbranque, Diop, Elliot, John, Helguson
Player to watch: Steed Malbranque
malbranque has been in fanastic form for Fuham of late after over-coming his early season injury problems. He is the creative genius that can make something from nothing and you can strongly expect him to be part of anything that leads to a Fulham goal.
Wigan Team News:
Wigan will be without their defensive rock Arjan De Zeeuw and Ryan Taylor.
Vital predicted line-up: Pollitt, Chimbonda, McMillan, Thome, Henchoz, Johannson, Kavanagh, Bullard, Thompson, McCulloch, Roberts
Player to watch: Lee McCulloch
Has been sensational all season for Wigan, the driving force behind their entire season. Always dangerous and Fulham should be weary to watch him closely.
Match Facts & Stats
Fulham have the 7th best home records in the Premiership with 11 wins. Wigan in contrast have the 4th best away record. Seven places separate the sides.
