Fulham vs Sheffield United
Premier League
Saturday
7th October 2023
Craven Cottage
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the gameweek eight Premier League fixture between Fulham and Sheffield United.
Fulham vs Sheffield United: Preview
Fulham form analysis
The Cottagers made an encouraging start by twice leading away at Arsenal, eventually settling for a 2-2 draw after goals from Pereira and Palhinha. The only thing the defense could muster was Ream’s goal in a 1-5 thumping by Manchester City at home.
Fulham did bounce back to beat Luton 1-0 at home thanks to a Vinícius strike. They followed that up by grinding out a 0-0 away draw at Crystal Palace. Most recently though, Fulham suffered a 0-2 home loss to Chelsea, undone by goals from new signings Mudryk and Broja.
Overall, Fulham have competed well in most games, showing they can trouble top sides like Arsenal. However, conceding 5 goals to City highlighted vulnerabilities Marco Silva needs to address. Fulham has a great chance of remaining in the Premier League this season if they are able to tighten up tactically and eliminate individual mistakes.
Sheffield United form analysis
Sheffield began with a creditable 1-2 home loss to Man City, briefly equalizing through Bogle. They followed up with a spirited 2-2 draw at home to Everton, leading twice courtesy of goals from Archer and a Pickford own goal. However, defensive issues surfaced in a 1-2 home loss to Spurs, going ahead late before conceding twice in injury time.
Sheffield’s problems at the back continued as they were thrashed 0-8 at home by Newcastle in their heaviest ever Premier League defeat. Most recently, Sheffield suffered a 2-0 home loss to West Ham, with Bowen and Soucek on target in a comfortable win for the Hammers.
Overall, Sheffield have struggled defensively on their Premier League return, conceding 15 goals already. They have competed well in most games, but a lack of cutting edge upfront has also been apparent. Scoring goals and tightening up defensively are clearly areas manager Paul Heckingbottom needs to address. The draws with Everton and Spurs showed spirit, but if Sheffield are to avoid relegation this season, urgent improvement is needed at both ends of the pitch after these heavy beatings.
