Leeds United make the trip to Craven Cottage this weekend looking to build on their encouraging return to the Premier League.
Ahead of Saturday’s clash, here are seven key facts, supplied by our friends at Opta, that highlight why the Whites will fancy their chances in west London.
Strong record in recent meetings
The recent history between these clubs suggests Leeds have every reason to be confident. Back in 2020/21, Marcelo Bielsa’s side completed a double over Fulham, including a thrilling 4-3 victory at Elland Road and a 2-1 success away. The last four league meetings between the sides have produced 18 goals, with Leeds proving they can thrive in open, attacking encounters. That history should provide encouragement for Farke’s men as they return to the capital.
Midfield creativity through Stach
One of Leeds’ standout players so far has been Anton Stach. Signed in the summer, the German midfielder has wasted no time making an impression, creating 10 chances in his first three league games. Only Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes has created more across the division. For a newly promoted side, that is an extraordinary contribution – no player has produced more in the opening three matches of a season since Emiliano Buendía for Norwich in 2019/20. If Leeds can find the finishing touch, Stach’s creativity could unlock Fulham’s fragile defence.
Calvert-Lewin’s threat emerging
Despite playing just 52 minutes so far, Dominic Calvert-Lewin leads the squad for expected goals (1.51). The England striker has consistently found himself in dangerous positions, showing the instincts that made him such a feared figure during his Everton days. His movement and aerial presence could be crucial against a Fulham defence that has looked vulnerable in recent weeks. Once he gets off the mark, goals may flow quickly.
Defensive resilience improving
After the defeat at Arsenal, Leeds responded with a much-improved defensive display against Newcastle, keeping their first clean sheet of the campaign. That shutout was built on organisation and commitment, with Pascal Struijk marshalling the backline impressively. Fulham, by contrast, have not managed a clean sheet in 12 Premier League matches. If Leeds can replicate the resilience shown against Newcastle, they will fancy their chances of frustrating Marco Silva’s side and striking on the counter.
A platform from Elland Road
Leeds’ early-season points have come at home, where they have beaten Everton and drawn with Newcastle. The Elland Road crowd has helped to establish momentum, and though they are away this weekend, the confidence built in those matches should carry over. By contrast, Fulham have struggled for wins, drawing against Manchester United and Brighton before falling 2-0 at Chelsea. Leeds’ ability to grind out results at home gives them a solid base from which to approach tricky away fixtures like this one.
Higher up the table
The league table tells its own story. Leeds are currently 12th, comfortably placed in mid-table with four points from their opening three games. Fulham, meanwhile, sit 18th with just two points, already facing pressure near the foot of the standings. Having a gap over Saturday’s opponents gives Leeds an opportunity to push further ahead, while also dealing a blow to a potential relegation rival. Momentum is everything at this stage of the season, and Leeds are positioned to move upwards.
More efficient with possession
Farke’s side have shown a willingness to keep the ball and dictate the tempo in matches. At Elland Road, they averaged over 54% possession against Everton and Newcastle, with their midfield trio controlling large spells. Fulham, on the other hand, have struggled to dominate the ball, averaging below 50% in each of their opening games. Leeds’ ability to retain possession, coupled with Stach’s chance creation, should help them carve out opportunities and keep the pressure on a Fulham team prone to mistakes in their own half.
Head-to-Head: Fulham vs Leeds United (Premier League)
📊 Overall
Games: 14
Wins: Leeds 5 | Fulham 5
Draws: 4
Goals: Leeds 15 | Fulham 15
🏟️ At Craven Cottage
Games: 5
Leeds wins: 1
Fulham wins: 3
Draws: 1
