Fulham vs Brentford prediction: Cottagers can claim derby spoils

Fulham and Brentford to serve up another close encounter

Fulham and Brentford both head into their opening Premier League meeting in fine fettle after impressive starts to the season and should serve up an entertaining London derby at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

The Cottagers have lost just once in their opening eight fixtures, a narrow 2-1 defeat at Arsenal, and have claimed notable scalps against Brighton, Brentford and Nottingham Forest, while drawing with Liverpool.

Marco Silva’s side have shown themselves to be a useful attacking force this season, with only Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham scoring more goals in the division, and they will provide a stern test for the Bees.

Brentford, meanwhile, will be confident of causing an upset after their own impressive start to the campaign. The Bees have lost just once in their last six Premier League matches, winning three, and held Chelsea to a goalless draw at Stamford Bridge last time out.

Thomas Frank’s side have a strong record against Fulham, winning four of their last five meetings, including a 3-0 victory in the Carabao Cup last season. However, the Cottagers will be determined to gain revenge in front of their own fans this weekend.

Team news

Fulham will be without injured quartet Manor Solomon, Harry Wilson, Neeskens Kebano and Shane Duffy for the visit of Brentford.

Brentford, meanwhile, have no fresh injury concerns and will be able to field a strong side.

Prediction

This is a tough match to call, with both sides in good form. However, Fulham’s home advantage and slightly superior attacking quality could give them the edge.

The Cottagers have won three of their four Premier League matches at Craven Cottage this season, scoring 10 goals in the process. They will be confident of adding to that tally against a Brentford side that has kept just one clean sheet in their last six away matches.

Prediction: Fulham 2-1 Brentford