Before The Whistle: Luton Town v Fulham

So, here we are: the final game of the season.

The boys in White might’ve thought the campaign finished at the start of March, but nevertheless, the curtain comes down on what’s been another solid outing in the top flight at a side that needs a 12-goal swing to stay up.

We can sympathise with Luton; the Hatters have put up far more of a fight than anyone expected – and have endured a very similar season to our relegations in 2018/19 and 20/21 in terms point points.

We don’t take this current era of stability for granted – and we’re all very clear who the mastermind is. Saturday marks the end of Marco Silva’s third full season as Fulham boss – he’s never started a fourth at the same club.

His contract extension earlier in the season means we won’t spend the summer months wondering whether he’ll be in the dugout come August, but there are more than a couple faces we’re likely to see in a Fulham shirt for the last time this weekend.

The most obvious is Joao Palhinha. Marco says in his press conference that he will be here next season, but we all know it’s never as simple as that. The stats show he’s been even more imperious this term than last, and whether it’s Munich, Manchester, or Mars, the smart money is on a summer exit – with our best wishes.

Doubts will no doubt linger about Tim Ream’s future, despite his own extension; regardless, he looks set to start thanks to Tosin’s exile and Diop’s suspension. Then there’s players like Antonee Robinson and Harrsion Reed – we’re approaching a summer of change the likes we’ve not seen for a while.

One player who won’t be leaving is Kenny Tete – Marco Silva revealed in his press conference that the club has exercised its option to trigger another year on the Dutch full-back’s contract.

It’d be nice to give those exiting a send-off to be proud of. A win, combined with favourable results, could take us as high as 12th, but we can’t finish any lower than 14th. Which, late poor run or not, isn’t to be sniffed at. Second season syndrome well and truly avoided. You Whites.

Kick-Off: Sunday, 4.00PM
Stadium: Kenilworth Road
Competition: Premier League
TV Channel (UK): None

🚦 LEAGUE FORM

Luton: ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ⬜ ❌
Fulham: ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ ⬜ ❌

⚖️ MATCH PROBABILITY

Luton: 36%
Draw: 39%
Fulham: 25%

🥊 MOST RECENT MATCHES

Sep 23: Fulham 1-0 Luton
May 23: Fulham 7-0 Luton
Dec 21: Luton 1-1 Fulham
Dec 19: Luton 3-3 Fulham

🎙 NEW PODCAST: End of Term

We preview Sunday’s final match of the season at Luton Town.

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