Warnock to frustrate all star Fulham?
Title favourites Fulham play host to Neil Warnock’s tricky Middlesbrough this Sunday, the Cottagers showed their quality in glimpses, but not enough, last term in the Premier League. Certainly returning back to the second tier in better shape than they did the previous time, Marco Silva enters the dugout where Scott Parker departed for Bournemouth, looking to almost reprove himself in English football after a disappointing spell at Everton. The 2019/20 Championship play-off winners have plenty of survivors in their ranks from that campaign and should have the knowhow to operate firmly at the top of the division this season.
Background
It is the opening weekend, meaning there is an air of unpredictability over every matchup, it is always difficult to know how much to read in pre-season. Therefore the prices are often a little juicier than they would be by matchday one or two, this situation sees Fulham close to evens to win the match outright. Boro entered last term with just two wins in nine, not very convincing considering Warnock’s remit will be to deliver a play-off push as a minimum this season.
As all Warnock teams seem to be, Boro are set up very well defensively however I do not see enough to cancel out Fulham’s firepower. Dael Fry, Paddy McNair and Marc Bola are amongst the best players for a back three in the division but it is in midfield areas I can see the problems forming. Andre Zambo Anguissa is a fairly ridiculous player for Championship level, Jean Michael Seri may also be available and with the likes of Tosin Adarabioyo, Antonee Robinson and Kenny Tete in the backline, the second tier fodder should be a mouth-watering prospect for Marco Silva.
Matt Crooks and Sammy Ameobi are astute acquisitions in looking to build towards a sustained play-off push, the former is a great physical asset with his relentless running and albeit cliche, effective touch for a big man. Ameobi is a seasoned second tier forward nowadays, capable of dropping deep to receive the ball and cause havoc with his power and trickery in attacking areas. A classic Neil Warnock winger that should thrive at the Riverside.
Harry Wilson is the big money signing for the Cottagers, as he looks to finally get settled in his first permanent move away from Liverpool now aged 24. Aleksandar Mitrovic had a season to forget last time around, however is another force far too good for the Championship, who if he can remain motivated, will likely justify his position as favourite to be the division’s top scorer.
Fulham are the pick for me, with fans back in the ground and quality all over the pitch, they should have enough to break Boro down. However right off Warnock at your peril, Boro may be able to stifle the game and earn a point. Unders is my angle.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Marc Bola cancelled out Harry Wilson's opener, 1-1.