The Hard Tackle looks at Fulham and their prospects in the run-in as they harbour faint hopes of qualifying for a European competition for the 2025/26 season.
Fulham are 8th in the Premier League with 48 points, having accumulated 13 wins, 9 draws, and 9 defeats. The Cottagers have scored 47 goals while conceding 42 goals, resulting in a goal difference of +5. Interestingly, they are only five points behind fifth-placed Newcastle United, with qualification for any of the three European competitions possible. So, can they make it this season? We will eventually come to that. But before that, we discuss how they have reached this point.
Antonee Robinson’s Performance
Antonee Robinson, 27, has enjoyed a strong season, and he is playing the second-most minutes of any outfield player in the Premier League. It is clear that Robinson possesses a unique physical ability; he is the second fastest player in the Premier League this season, with a time of 35.48 km/h, and first in total sprint distance at 11.02 km. He is also the leading full-back in distance run and third overall with 255.42 km.
Robinson is also quite adept on the ball and defensively. His crossing grade of 72.1 ranks 34th among all full-backs and 13th among those with at least 1,500 minutes of playing time, and he has created 33 chances (with a total of 7 assists). Meanwhile, the USMNT international ranks in the 96th percentile for full-backs on assists this season.
He leads full-backs with 146 crosses and 26 dangerous crosses. Also, Robinson excels off the ball, winning 54 tackles, completing 53 interceptions, and making 34 blocks. So, it is hardly surprising that the 27-year-old has become a target for several Premier League bigwigs.
Alex Iwobi’s Impact at Fulham
Fulham have touted Alex Iwobi as one of the linchpins the final third and someone who can produce defence-splitting passes. His high passing grade demonstrates Iwobi’s passing accuracy. The Nigerian international has also produced a glut of chances. This season, Iwobi has also added eight goals for Fulham.
Calvin Bassey’s Dual Role
The Nigerian international is superb both defensively and in progression. His ball-carrying ability makes him unique among centre-backs. Fulham have used Bassey to move the ball from defence into attack. Thus, Bassey is another central figure in Fulham’s backline and how they have made an impact in the defensive third.
The Kenny Tete Problem
Kenny Tete’s knee injury has posed a challenge for Fulham. However, Timothy Castagne has done a good job covering for him, although he is the only natural right-back available at the West London club. Should Fulham have brought in another right-back in the winter transfer window whilst Tete was out?
Tete had been having his best season as a Fulham player before his injury, providing stability defensively down the right flank, considering Robinson’s exploits on the other side. The Dutchman’s physical make-up meant he could deal with isolated 1v1s well, whereas Castagne struggles with that, as he relies more on cover from the wingers and the right-sided center-back.
Fulham rely on key players continuing to deliver at the levels they have been doing so far. The trio of Robinson, Iwobi, and Bassey have played an important part in their success. Castagne has done excellently to fill in for Tete, he will be challenged each week. If Fulham keep the ball rolling and sort themselves out defensively, a spot in a European competition may well be within their reach.
Final Words
The 2024/25 second half could be historic for Fulham. Securing a spot in a European competition might prove to be not only an exceptional achievement in itself but also a compliment to the club. It will also help the Cottagers attract better players in the coming future. Fans will closely watch the latest Premier League betting odds, as they offer some clues about Fulham’s chances compared to their rivals.
Although the season is nowhere near finished, Fulham have established themselves as a serious contender for a spot in a European competition. With good management, clever recruitment, and good team spirit, they can turn their dream into reality.
