Southampton finds itself in a precarious position as it prepares to host Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at St. Mary’s Stadium. With only 11 points to their name, the Saints are on the brink of making unwanted history, aiming to avoid being branded as the joint worst team in Premier League history. The current record for the lowest points total in the league is held by Derby County, which managed just 11 points during the 2007/08 season. Southampton matched that tally with a late draw against West Ham United last weekend, and a point against Fulham would allow them to surpass it.
Despite their dire circumstances, Southampton is approaching the match with a mindset of “there’s no harm in trying.” Manager Simon Rusk, who is temporarily in charge after the departure of Ivan Juric, is keen to rally his players for one last push. "We know we're not perfect," Rusk acknowledged, emphasizing the importance of squad management in the final weeks of the season. With relegation already confirmed, the Saints are eager to avoid further injuries to key players.
Fulham, on the other hand, sits comfortably in the middle of the table with 48 points, having experienced a season of ups and downs. Marco Silva's side has little left to play for, as European football is no longer a viable possibility. After suffering back-to-back defeats, they will be looking to regain form against a struggling Southampton side. Fulham's last outing saw them lose 2-1 to Chelsea, and they will be keen to bounce back.
The head-to-head record between the two teams over the last five encounters shows a competitive spirit, with Southampton securing one victory, Fulham two wins, and two matches ending in draws. Their most recent clash ended in a goalless draw on December 22, 2024, highlighting the potential for a tightly contested match.
Kick-off for the match is set for 3:00 PM BST (10:00 AM ET) on Saturday, and while the game won’t be televised in the UK due to the 3 PM blackout, fans can catch the action via live radio commentary on BBC Radio Solent, BBC Radio 5 Live, and BBC London 94.9. In the United States, the match will be available for streaming on Peacock, while viewers in Canada can watch via fuboTV.
As for the team news, Southampton will be without Albert Gronbaek, who has been sidelined since the March international break. Ryan Fraser and Charlie Taylor are both doubts for the match, which adds to Rusk’s challenges as he seeks to field a competitive side. The predicted lineup for Southampton is expected to feature Ramsdale in goal, supported by a back three of Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, and Stephens. The midfield will likely include Walker-Peters, Downes, Ugochukwu, and Manning, with Fernandes and Dibling providing support to lone striker Onuachu.
Fulham, meanwhile, is also managing its injury concerns. Reiss Nelson remains a long-term absentee, and both Rodrigo Muniz and Emile Smith Rowe are doubtful for the match. Raul Jimenez, who has been a key player for Fulham with 10 goals and three assists this season, will be expected to lead the line. The Cottagers are predicted to line up with Leno in goal, a back four of Tete, Andersen, Bassey, and Robinson, and a midfield featuring Lukic and Berge. Sessegnon, Pereira, and Iwobi will support Jimenez in attack.
Southampton’s struggles at home have been well-documented, having secured just five points at St. Mary’s Stadium this season, with 13 losses in their 15 home matches. The loyal supporters are braced for another tough outing, especially against a Fulham side that, despite its inconsistencies, has shown more than enough quality to secure a victory. The predicted scoreline from many observers leans towards a 3-1 win for Fulham, reflecting the Saints’ struggles and the Cottagers’ desire to finish the season on a high note.
As the match approaches, the atmosphere at St. Mary’s Stadium is sure to be charged with anticipation. Southampton fans will be hoping for a spirited performance from their side, despite the grim realities of relegation. Will the Saints be able to muster the strength to surpass the 11-point mark, or will Fulham capitalize on their struggles? All eyes will be on this crucial clash as both teams seek to end their seasons on a positive note.
With the stakes high for Southampton and pride on the line for Fulham, this match promises to be a compelling encounter in the Premier League.
