A trip to Sofia is a daunting task at the best of times – but for Fulham, with their threadbare squad and upcoming game against Wolves (on Sunday), it is a mountain to climb. You would expect them to rest players – and in fact Roy Hodgson has said they will (link). Fulham’s second string could struggle – and though could scrape a draw, going there and winning is a huge ask.

LAY Fulham @ 3.2 (Betfair) – 2 point liability

Fulham take a decent, but potentially vulnerable, 3-1 lead to Russia for the return leg of their Europa Cup playoff. The first leg victory was tainted by Andy Johnson’s injury and the away side giving themselves a chance with a fine volleyed goal.

Hodgson admitted before that game he’d rest players in Russia if Fulham were comfortable – and with their very small squad he could just do that, despite that away goal. Another factor is the Russian’s artificial pitch; away sides always struggle when faced with a bouncy, plasticy surface, and the Londoners could get a shock.

Fulham are slight favourites for the tie – but considering their cushion, the possibility they may rest players, the pitch, the Russian determination to progress in European competition, and Fulham’s reputation as a poor travelling side, laying the Cottagers is the way to go. There is some depth on Betfair laying them at up to 2.8, and that should be taken – although more should appear before kick off.

LAY Fulham @ 2.76 (Betfair) – 2 point liability