Portsmouth v Fulham preview

Cottagers looking for third away win on the trot

Last updated: 9th May 2008

Brian McBride goal celeb Fulham v Birmingham

Fulham looking to secure survival

Fulham are aiming to complete the great escape when they travel to Portsmouth in search of the win that will guarantee their Premier League survival.

Roy Hodgson's men have raised themselves from their slumbers by winning their last two games and they are hoping to secure their third successive away day success for the first time ever.

A win will be good enough for Fulham to ensure they will be playing in the top flight next season, no matter the results elsewhere.

Fulham are boosted by the fact they have a fully fit squad for the last day showdown at Fratton Park.

Finland striker Jari Litmanen played for the reserves in midweek and is available but is unlikely to figure due to a lack of match fitness.

Erik Nevland is pushing for a starting place after scoring against Birmingham last weekend, but Hodgson could opt to stick with the starting XI that overcame relegation rivals Birmingham at Craven Cottage.

Fulham will be hoping Portsmouth have one eye on next week's FA Cup final, but Harry Redknapp will be keen to see his side bounce back from three straight defeats.

Redknapp has vowed to field a strong line-up against Fulham as he does not want to upset Fulham's relegation rivals

The Pompey has a decision to make on who will start in goal, with David James hoping to prove his fitness ahead of the cup final after recovering from a calf injury.

Redknapp could decide not to risk James and play Jamie Ashdown who has kept goal for the last two games.

Sulley Muntari and John Utaka could both return from injury after missing last weekend's defeat at Middlesbrough.

The game has come too soon for Pedro Mendes and Noe Pamarot who are continuing their recoveries from injury.

Kanu could be rested with the clash with Cardiff in mind, meaning Jermain Defoe will lead the attack.

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