Preview: The Latics Vs Fulham

It hasn't been happy travelling for the Latics this season, losing three of their

Landzaat: Has second chance to shine

first four and drawing the other. Compared to last season, where Wigans home form was one of the best in the Premiership, this season has been a dissapointment.

Fulham, however, have continued where they left off from last term. The Cottagers had one of the best home records last season, that arguably saving them from relegation; a tradition that has continued into the new campaign.

Two victories, one draw and just one defeat, mixed with an improved away record sees Chris Colemans team sitting ninth in the table, with Fulham continuing to play exciting football.

One of Fulhams biggest weaknesses last season was their poor defensive record, the Cottagers conceded 58 league goals. That has been improved this season, and Paul Jewell knows his team will have to be at their best to come away with any points at all.

"Fulham ended up finishing only two places behind us last season, and getting a win at Newcastle last month

Bullard: Former Latics favourite to miss out

shows they are no soft touch.

"They went to Aston Villa last week, everyone was talking about Villa, but they still managed a draw despite getting a harsh penalty given against them.

"That was a game they would probably got beaten in last season, this time they look a far tougher nut to crack."

One player who will miss out this Saturday will be former Wigan favourite and joker Jimmy Bullard. The charismatic midfielder left Wigan last season after four fun filled seasons, and started his FUlham career in fantastic form.

After scoring two goals early on, Bullard broke down with an ankle injury, and is expected to be out for the rest of the season.

Paul Jewell also has injury concerns ahead of Saturdays clash. Duo Josip Skoko and Fitz Hall are both out, with their Saturday replacements Denny Landzaat and Andy Webster expected to start.

Ones to Watch

Jimmy Bullards energy in midfield will be sorely missed, but Fulham still have some exciting players. Papa Bouba Diop, although not the powerhouse he was last season, is still a handfull, whilst Fulham have dangerous strikers in the form of Collins John and American Brian McBride.

Pundits Prediction

Mark Lawrenson has gone for a 1-1 draw. Not a bad prediction at all....

My Prediction

Fulham away is a tough fixture, as the Cottagers are solid at home. They have improved their defence since last season, but Heskey and Camara can still cause them problems.

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