Fulham v Sunderland preview

Cottagers will be hoping that the Black Cats do not bring bad luck

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 4th April 2008

Roy Hodgson Middlesbrough v Fulham

Hodgson: Fulham could be cast adrift

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Skysports.com prediction: 1-2

SKY BET odds: Fulham 11/8, Draw 11/5, Sunderland 13/8

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Two sides desperate for points meet at Craven Cottage as Fulham play host to Sunderland.

The Cottagers have only lost one of their last four, but with just four wins all season they currently languish six points adrift of Premier League safety.

All of their league victories have come at home, but they lack a cutting edge and have failed to score in four of their last seven.

They could be in for another tough afternoon on Saturday as Sunderland have won their last two, the first time they have picked up back-to-back successes this season.

They have moved seven points clear of the relegation zone, but have not won three consecutive games in the top flight since December 2000.

With just one win on the road all season the Black Cats also know they must improve on their travels if they are to avoid being dragged back into the dog fight at the bottom.

On a positive note for Fulham, they have won the last three meetings between the two sides at Craven Cottage and have tasted defeat just once in seven previous Premier League encounters.

Litmanen in squad

Roy Hodgson has no fresh concerns heading into the game and is unlikely to make too many alterations to the side which drew 2-2 at Derby last weekend.

Finnish forward Jari Litmanen has been included in the squad and could be handed his debut, but Hodgson has made it clear that he is unwilling to take a gamble on the former Liverpool man from the start.

Kasey Keller looks likely to continue in goal with Antti Niemi still sidelined, while Brian McBride could be partnered in attack by fellow American Eddie Johnson.

Yorke misses out

Roy Keane will also have a virtually unchanged squad to choose from as Sunderland head to London.

Dwight Yorke picked up a knee injury during training on Thursday and is expected to be out for up to a week, but he remains the only concern.

Dickson Etuhu and Ross Wallace (both knee) remain long-term absentees and as such will not feature against the Cottagers.