Friends of Fulham

 
Sessegnon to leave in summer for record fee


Tottenham's transfer target Ryan Sessegnon is not set to leave Fulham until the summer, according to the Telegraph.

The newspaper claims that the 17-year-old is set to leave Craven Cottage at the end of the season in what may be a British record fee for a teenager.

It is understood that Spurs hope their track record of developing youngsters will help them clinch a deal, while Manchester United have shown the most interest in the wide player and Liverpool have also scouted him.

Fulham's senior official, vice-chairman Tony Khan, has announced that Sessegnon will remain with the club until at least the end of the campaign amid wide January speculation.

"As it's been the subject of a great deal of speculation, I'd like to announce that Ryan Sessegnon is staying with Fulham football club and will not be departing during this January transfer window," he said.

Good move for Spurs?
There is no doubt that Sessegnon would be a perfect fit for Spurs and they would be picking up one of the best emerging youngsters in world football.

The England Under-19 international is a left-back by trade, but has quite often been deploy further forward on the wing.

He has been in great form so far this season for Fulham, scoring seven goals and supplying four assists in return.

Sessegnon looks destined to reach the top as he is still just 17 and Spurs should certainly considering smashing a British record fee to sign him.

This Is Futbol rating: 9/10

Likely to happen?
Any chances of Spurs signing Sessegnon in the January seem over as the left-sided flyer is expected to remain at Craven Cottage at least until the summer.

They have been mentioned as long-term admirers, but he is set to continue his development in the Championship for another six months.

However, there is set to be a mad scramble for his signature and the influence of manager Mauricio Pochettino could be huge in attracting a talented youngster.

This Is Futbol rating: 2/10



https://thisisfutbol.com/2018/01/transfers/sessegnon-to-leave-in-summer-for-record-fee/

 
Why it is déjà vu for Slavisa Jokanovic at Craven Cottage

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For most clubs, the opening of the transfer window brings newfound optimism and excitement, filled with intrigue and hopes for an impact addition to the squad. Yet for Fulham in the Slavisa Jokanovic era, there is a far different flavour to the window: one of public spats and constant displeasures voiced to the media.

In the run-up to last weekend's FA Cup Third Round loss against Southampton, the Serb unleashed another of his patented transfer tirades. Jokanovic expressed his disappointment with the club's supposed lack of ambition in the market, and offered a provocative solution to the problem: he should be sacked.

To many Fulham fans, these sentiments are far from a revelatory bombshell. One only has to look back to late July for a similar outburst. Then, Slavisa claimed his transfer list was being "completely ignored", in addition to stating his support for Sone Aluko, who he said he was fighting to keep at the club. In the end, Aluko was sold to Reading, seemingly against Jokanovic's best wishes.

The fractious history doesn't end there. Back in August 2016, after Fulham's impressive unbeaten start to the Championship season, Jokanovic was frustrated with Fulham's lack of transfers.

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Add in the Craig Kline disaster, in which the controversial American data analyst had an outsize say over transfers and clashed with Jokanovic, one gets a recipe for managerial discontent.

It is certainly clear that there are still problems behind the scenes at Fulham, illustrating that the departure of Kline has done little to cool the tensions between Slavisa and the club's ownership. Yet the public voicing of disapproval from Jokanovic has to stop.

The state of affairs regarding the club's transfer policy indicates serious issues behind the scenes. At any organisation, issues such as Jokanovic's should be dealt with behind closed doors, rather than publicly aired in the media. If the manager truly felt aggrieved, he should take these matters up privately with the ownership.

No matter how annoyed Slavisa may be, taking internal disputes public is counterproductive and can only make matters worse. The fact that he has complained publicly for the past three windows shows the collapse of normal communication measures at the club.

But this does not indicate a club in crisis; Fulham is by no means in disaster mode. The new plans to redevelop the Riverside Stand, the retained Category One status of the academy, and the gleaming new Motspur Park training ground are all prominent examples of the healthy state of Fulham Football Club.

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Much of the public posturing can be attributed to Slavisa's sometimes abrasive demeanor. These threats have persisted throughout his tenure at SW6, and the Serb has stayed with the club and expressed his desire to take the Whites to the Premier League. Surely if Slavisa truly intended on leaving, he would have deserted Fulham long ago?

Jokanovic's public outbursts appear to be nothing more than the manager throwing his toys out of the pram. The threats and 'back me or sack me' proclamations carry little weight and only serve to disrupt the club. The media focus should have been on Fulham's superb dismantling of Ipswich in midweek, yet instead Slavisa's petulance dominates the headlines.

Fulham supporters hope they have heard the end of their manager's complaints, and will be hopeful of bringing in Matt Targett, who has been linked by Sky Sports, on loan in the coming days. Slavisa hopefully has learned his lesson, and given his comments following the Southampton match, he intends to change his ways.

"If somebody is hurt, sorry, I'm not going to [talk] anymore", Jokanovic told BBC Radio London. "I'm going to be quiet and [continue] coaching my team."

For the sake of Fulham and its stability, let us hope Slavisa Jokanovic honours his word.



http://tbrfootball.com/why-it-is-deja-vu-for-slavisa-jokanovic-at-craven-cottage/

 
Fulham rule out Ryan Sessegnon sale in January amid Manchester United and Tottenham transfer links

Fulham co-chairman Tony Khan has ruled out the possibility of Ryan Sessegnon leaving the Championship club this month, despite Manchester United and Tottenham hoping to sign the 17-year-old.

Sessegnon, who is a regular for the England U19 side, has attracted interest from a number of clubs since breaking into the Fulham first-team last season.

Jose Mourinho is said to be an admirer of the teenager as he looks to bolster his options in the left back position, but Tottenham and French giants Paris-Saint Germain have also been linked with moves.

Fulham are adamant that Sessegnon will not be leaving during the January transfer window, however, with Khan saying he remains an 'important part of the Fulham family'.

'As it's been the subject of a great deal of speculation, I'd like to announce that Ryan Sessegnon is staying with Fulham football club and will not be departing during this January transfer window,' he told the Telegraph.

'Ryan is a very important part of the Fulham family, and we're grateful that he'll be with us as we fight to achieve promotion this season.'



http://metro.co.uk/2018/01/11/fulham-rule-ryan-sessegnon-sale-january-amid-manchester-united-tottenham-transfer-links-7220639/

 
Fulham rule out Ryan Sessegnon departure amid Tottenham and Manchester United interest

Fulham's head of operations Tony Khan has confirmed Ryan Sessegnon will not be leaving the club in the January transfer window.

The 17-year-old left-back has been linked with a move to one of the Premier League's big-hitters, with Manchester United and Tottenham reportedly showing interest in the left-back.

Sky Sports News understands that Spurs are looking at the defender as a possible long-term replacement for Danny Rose, should he leave the club, and Mauricio Pochettino's side would consider loaning Sessegnon back to Craven Cottage as part of any potential deal this month.

Khan, who is also Fulham's head of football operations and son of owner Shahid Khan, told The Telegraph that the club will not be selling Sessegnon.

"As it's been the subject of a great deal of speculation, I'd like to announce that Ryan Sessegnon is staying with Fulham and will not be departing during this January transfer window," Khan said.

"Ryan is a very important part of the Fulham family, and we're grateful that he'll be with us as we fight to achieve promotion this season."

Khan's comments come after Sky Sports reported earlier this month that the Cottagers are not looking to sell any of their players in January, while manager Slavisa Jokanovic has previously spoken out over his frustration at the club's lack of signings.

Fulham are understood to be interested in bringing in Southampton left-back Matt Targett on loan for the rest of the season as Jokanovic looks to add another option in the position, however, no deal has yet to be agreed.



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11203150/fulham-rule-out-ryan-sessegnon-departure-amid-tottenham-and-manchester-united-interest

 
U23s Host Reading

Peter Grant's Under-23 side play at Craven Cottage on Friday evening in the PL2 in a 7pm kick off against second placed Reading FC.

It is their second match this week after beating Aston Villa 3-1 at Villa Park on Friday evening in their first match back from the winter break.

The Whites have now won 19 out of their last possible 21 points in the PL2 and have the best form in the league and sat in the final play-off spot in fifth.

Reading themselves however have found their own rich vein of form with the third best in the league, they've recorded three wins a draw and a loss in their last five.

In their last match Reading beat Brighton and Hove Albion who are one place below the Whites in sixth.

Reading are now second in the PL2 with 26 points, Blackburn in third have two games in hand over the Royals.

A win for Fulham could potentially see them go third with the top of the table is getting tighter as the season progresses.

"They boys have to be hungry enough to play in these games," said Under-23s Head Coach Peter Grant about playing at Villa Park and Craven Cottage this week.

"To play in these stadiums and make it their drive and determination to succeed, to try and get in the 1st team so you're playing in these arenas week in week out.

"That's hopefully what we are trying to put in their head that mentality, and that is what their goal has to be."

This match will be streamed live on fulhamfctv.com for subscribers, alternatively there will be live updates provided on the Club's official twitter account.





http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/11/u23s-host-reading

 
John McGlashan dead: Former Dundee, Fulham and Millwall player passes away aged 50 following illness

He also played for Montrose, Arbroath, Rotherham, Peterborough and Ross County

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article11833894.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/Arbroath-Manager-John-McGlashan-June-2009.jpg)
John McGlashan played for and coached Dundee (Image: Perthshire Picture Agency)

Tributes have been paid to former Dundee player and youth coach John McGlashan who has died at the age of 50.

The former midfielder, described as a "local hero", is believed to have been battling an illness prior to his death.

The Dark Blues hailed Mr McGlashan as "one of our own", saying he was a Dundee fan from birth who had been proud to play for his home team.

Mr McGlashan, born in Dundee in 1967, also played for Montrose, Arbroath, Millwall, Rotherham United, Fulham, Peterborough United and Ross County.

He managed Arbroath from 2005 until 2009.

A statement from Dundee read: "Everyone at Dundee Football Club was saddened to learn of the death of former Dundee midfielder and youth coach John McGlashan who passed away aged just 50.

"John McGlashan was 'one of our own' as a Dundee boy who lived the dream of pulling on the dark blue and playing his part in a title winning campaign.

"The thoughts of everyone at Dens Park are with his family and friends at this sad time."

Dundee historian Kenny Ross said Mr McGlashan was "highly thought of" and many would describe him as a "local hero".

He said: "John came in from part-time football and was a Dundee fan, which was pretty rare.

"He was proud and excited to play for his home team.

"He was highly regarded and thought of as a local hero, especially because of his involvement with coaching youth teams at Showcase the Street."

McGlashan's professional football career began in Montrose after he joined the club from Dundee Violet.



http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/john-mcglashan-dead-former-dundee-11833747

 
Are You a Fulham FC Superfan?

Fulham fans, there's still time to win our latest #FFCSuperfan competition!

In collaboration with Main Team Partner Grosvenor Casinos, supporters are being offered the opportunity to showcase their passion for the Club and win some amazing prizes, including;

    Two VIP Hospitality tickets to the Grosvenor Lounge at a Fulham home game this season
    Signed Fulham merchandise
    A casino experience at one of Grosvenor's top venues, with a free bet voucher
    Your own feature in an official Matchday Programme this season
    A 2018/19 Fulham Home Shirt
    The chance to compete for the grand prize of a 2018/19 Season Ticket

To be in with a chance of being crowned the latest #FFCSuperfan, all you have to do is submit a photo of you showing your dedication to Fulham FC in the most unique location.

How To Enter

1. Enter via social media using the hashtag #FFCSuperfan
2. Enter by emailing [email protected]

All entries must be submitted by midnight on Friday 12th January and Fulham FC member of staff will contact successful entries – please do not email the Club if you do not receive a response to your entry.

*To be eligible for this competition you must be over the age of 18 and a resident in the UK
*For full terms and conditions click here




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/11/grosvenor-superfan

 
Report: Swansea reluctant to meet Fulham's £5m Fredericks demands, could move for Barnsley's Yiadom instead

The Fulham and Barnsley right-backs have been strongly linked with moves to Swansea City in recent weeks.

Swansea City are reluctant to meet Fulham's £5 million Ryan Fredericks demands, the Mirror reports (page 57 of Thursday's printed edition).

And it is claimed that could see Swansea revive their proposed move for Barnsley's Andy Yiadom, as they look to provide extra competition for Kyle Naughton and Angel Rangel.

The Mirror reported last month that Swansea had agreed a £2 million deal for Yiadom, who like Fredericks is out of contract at the end of the campaign.

But the subsequent sacking of Paul Clement, who has since been succeeded by Carlos Carvalhal, appeared to put the Ghanaian's move on hold, with the Fulham right-back seemingly emerging as the Portuguese's preferred target.

Carvalhal should know both players well, having encountered the pair while Sheffield Wednesday's head coach.

But the vast difference in asking price could make up Swansea's mind for them.

Carvalhal is still seeking his first signing since arriving at the Liberty Stadium three days after Christmas.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/01/11/report-swansea-reluctant-to-meet-fulhams-5m-fredericks-demands-c/

 
Inside The Riverside

Graham Kirby from The Boro Podcast discusses managerial changes at the Riverside Stadium, his aspirations for the season, and Saturday's meeting with Fulham.

How long have you been a Boro fan?

Since 1994. I was nine and starting to follow football more seriously, so Dad managed to get tickets to the penultimate game at Ayresome Park; a 1-1 draw with Sheffield United. Aside from my Grandad supporting Charlton, my whole family are Boro fans and they're my hometown team, so there was only ever going to be one outcome.


Any favourite players from over the years?

In the early days it was Jan Åge Fjørtoft, then Juninho (of course) and Emerson. They were such dazzling players, even now it is hard to believe they turned out for Middlesbrough. Nowadays it's a fight between Ben Gibson and Adam Clayton.
Were you happy with the appointment of Tony Pulis?

I was delighted with the appointment of Tony Pulis! Hugely experienced manager taking a step down, if anything, to work on a slightly different project to what he has come to be associated with recently. He's clear that he has been brought in to review and structure the whole club up to be one that can sustain life in the Premier League, not just to gain promotion. He also has a great deal of respect and admiration for our Chairman, Steve Gibson, which bodes well for them working together to rebuild the club.


Has there been a shift in style since he took over?

Although we've not had too many games under our new manager, Pulis' style has started to seep through. There has been a better positional discipline from the players, who generally seem a bit more organised. Communication on the pitch has improved, full-backs are slightly more restrained and cautious in their attacking adventures, and the midfield two have more free reign to get forward.

I expect a 4-2-3-1 formation. We're intrigued to see whether he tries to combine the forces of Rudy Gestede and Britt Assombalonga up front. Adama Traore is getting a consistent run in the team under Pulis. Stewart Downing will continue pulling strings somewhere in the "three" and there are very few other places up for grabs, although following a return from injury last Saturday it might be time for Clayton to return to the midfield.
Do you think you underachieved in the first half of the season?

The first half of the season felt like massive underachievement. Our season never really felt like getting going and before we knew it we were out of the Play-Offs with 20 games gone. Given how we strengthened and the other teams, we felt we would be mounting a title challenge.


Who have been your standout performers so far?

Over the last few weeks Downing has proved himself as a key player for Boro and has been instrumental in us getting some good results. Darren Randolph has been excellent in goal and has saved us a few points, and Cyrus Christie has proved a great buy but may find himself out of favour under Pulis who prefers stronger defenders in full-back positions.
Where do you think you can finish come May?

Play-Offs is the aim for us now. I don't expect Pulis to come in and be a miracle worker, but the strength of our squad should lead to a few good runs and I think we can finish comfortably in the Play-Offs. Top-two seems like a step too far for this season.
What did you make of the reverse fixture at the Cottage?

The Fulham vs Middlesbrough game in September was a bizarre one. We were completely outplayed for two-thirds of the match and, on balance, were lucky to leave with a point. Fulham were able to pass around and probe at Boro players still getting to grips with a new system. But a late goal for either side added some entertainment to what was not the most entertaining visit to Craven Cottage we've had in recent years.


Which Fulham players are you particularly wary of?

You struggle to talk about Fulham at the moment without mentioning Ryan Sessegnon – he's an incredible talent. He tortured our right back, Christie, back in September, so it'll be interesting to see if Pulis opts for the more experienced Ryan Shotton to counter that threat. Tom Cairney has always been a fantastic midfield general at this level so I expect to see a running battle between him and our Grant Leadbitter. If nothing else it'll be nice to see Tomas Kalas and Ryan Fredericks again, but hopefully they'll be having an off day.
What sort of match are you expecting?

It will be an interesting fixture. We all know how Fulham like to play football 'the right way,' but it will be a tough game for both sides. One issue Boro fans hate is teams setting up for a draw at the Riverside from kick-off. I don't expect Fulham to do this – which will be a relief for all in attendance.

Pulis has been experimenting with his line-ups and it'll be interesting to see if Gestede or Assombalonga (or both) start on Saturday. Assombalonga is on a dry spell and hasn't scored since the end of November so he'll be due a flurry soon enough. If Boro manage to score first, Fulham may find it difficult to get a foothold at the Riverside.
Where's a good place for away fans to grab a pre-match pint?

The usual away pub for away fans is Doctor Browns. It's a short walk from the ground and offers a friendly welcome to any Fulham fans making the long trip north.
What's your score prediction?

Boro 2–0 Fulham (Assombalonga, Braithwaite) – After the frantic fixture congestion since Pulis' appointment over Christmas, he's now had time with the squad on the training pitch. We've seen his potency with set-pieces already, something which Fulham have struggled with in the past, and hopefully this will continue to bear fruit.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/11/inside-the-riverside

 
Fulham captain Tom Cairney a doubt for trip to face Middlesbrough

The skipper is struggling with the reoccurring knee injury that has plagued his season

Tom Cairney is a doubt for Fulham's trip to the Riverside to face Middlesbrough on Saturday.

The skipper missed the 1-0 loss to Southampton as a result of the reoccurring knee injury that has plagued the 26-year-old's season so far and Slavisa Jokanovic has revealed the club must assess him before they take on Tony Pulis' side.

Meanwhile, Floyd Ayite will also definitely miss out with a calf problem, while there is better news for Marcus Bettinelli and Kevin McDonald, who have both taken part in training this week.

And the head coach is hoping the side can find a solution to Cairney's knee injury soon as he can make the side play better football when he is in the side.

Jokanovic said: "Marcus is working with us, with Tom Cairney it's many months he's been in an up/down situation, we must asses the situation with him and in this moment we don't know if he will be available or not for the Boro game.

"Kevin McDonald started working with us today and Floyd Ayite is still out.

"He [Cairney] is one of our best players and all the season he's been with some kind of a problem and we didn't find a quality enough solution for his knee.

"At the end, we expect to find the best version of this man because this man can make us play better football and can make people around him be better.

"We expect we will find some solution, there's too many up/downs and this kind of situation can damage himself, and us too but it's part of the football and we are going to find the solution."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-captain-tom-cairney-doubt-14142036

 
Fixture Changes

Due to Bristol City's meeting with Leeds United moving to a Sunday, our match against the Robins at Ashton Gate, which was previously scheduled to take place on the Tuesday, will now be played on Wednesday 21st February (7.45pm).

Furthermore, our subsequent fixture at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers has been selected for live television coverage on Sky Sports. The date (Saturday 24th February) has not changed, but it will now kick-off at the later time of 5.30pm.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/11/fixture-changes

 
Middlesbrough vs Fulham: Slavisa Jokanovic on Tony Pulis' style & Boro's 'legal' organisation

The Fulham boss has urged his side to put in a 'brave and confident' display when they head to the North-east on Saturday

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic says he is looking forward to locking horns with his experienced Middlesbrough counterpart Tony Pulis on Saturday.

The Cottagers head to the Riverside just two points behind Boro in the Championship standings and with high hopes of a top-six finish.

An away win at the Riverside would lay down a marker in the play-off scrap, but Jokanovic admits he expects to come up against a very different Boro side with Pulis now at the helm.

The spoils were shared back in September as Cyrus Christie's late equaliser handed Garry Monk's Boro a 1-1 draw in west London, but Jokanovic expects the Teessiders to be much more direct in the North-east this weekend.

"The expectations are similar for us and for them," Jokanovic told the club's website.

"They were a Premier League team last season, we finished in the play-offs, and it's natural that the expectations for both teams are similar.

"At the moment they are two points above us, we are more or less in a similar position. We are going to play one of the more quality and more expensive Championship teams, one with a really experienced coach.

"They're definitely going to change their style after Garry Monk. They're going to be solid, they're going to be strong, they're going to be a dangerous team in second phases and from set-pieces.

"This is what we are going to find, and we must be ready for this kind of game. It's not going to be easy, but easy games don't exist."

Since Pulis' arrival, Boro have won three of their four matches and the mood on Teesside has transformed within the space of a few weeks.



http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/middlesbrough-vs-fulham-slavisa-jokanovic-14142060

 
Fulham join race for Borthwick-Jackson


Fulham have joined the race to sign Leeds United defender Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, according to the Daily Mail.

The newspaper claims that the 20-year-old is primed to leave Elland Road in January with Manchester United set to end his season-long loan move early.

It is understood that the Premier League giants have the option to terminate his deal with Leeds and are disappointed with his lack of game time.

The report details that Fulham have now enquired about the left-back's serves, while Reading are also in the race for his signature.

Both teams are keen on taking him on loan for the rest of the campaign and Fulham want to sign him to allow left-sided flyer Ryan Sessegnon to move forward into a more attacking position.

Good move for Leeds?

Borthwick-Jackson clearly doesn't feature in Thomas Christiansen's first-team plans and his expected departure in January will make little difference to the squad.

The Whites have confirmed the signing of left-back Laurens De Bock from Club Brugge and he is now expected to cement a position in the starting XI.

Manchester United's loanee has made just six appearances so far during his spell with Leeds and only one of them has come in the Championship.

Borthwick-Jackson was expected to make a big impact during his loan spell and has been unable to live up to the hype.

This Is Futbol rating: 8/10

Likely to happen?

De Bock's signing all but sealed Borthwick-Jackson's fate at Leeds and he is expected to return to Old Trafford this month before leaving again on loan.

The English full-back has been unable to force his way into the first team on a regular basis and had to make do with mainly cup appearances, but could get a fresh chance elsewhere in the Championship.

This Is Futbol rating: 9/10




https://thisisfutbol.com/2018/01/transfers/fulham-join-race-for-borthwick-jackson/

 
Slavisa Jokanovic hails news that Ryan Sessegnon is staying at Fulham

Tony Khan issued a statement revealing that the wonderkid would not be leaving the Cottage in the January transfer window

Slavisa Jokanovic has hailed the news that Ryan Sessegnon will be staying at Fulham as 'fantastic for myself and for my team.'

Tony Khan, the club's Vice Chairman and Director of Football Operations, announced on Wednesday that the wonderkid would not be leaving the club, despite interest from Tottenham and Manchester United.

The 17-year-old, who signed a three-year deal in the summer, will continue to ply his trade at the club until next year at least, and his head coach is delighted that the youngster will be staying and playing a big part in his team's quest for promotion.

He said: "This is fantastic news for us, for myself, for my team, for the Club, for the supporters, and for Ryan Sessegnon, too,"

"We're probably going to start talking about a similar story in the summer, but now it's a safe situation for us, like it is for him.

"He can be focused only on daily work, and competing with Fulham. I don't have any problem with Ryan, he's a quiet man.

"Ryan knows he's going to be an important player for the next 15 years. Now it's time for him to be focused on trying to prove himself in this period that's immediately ahead of him and ahead of us.

"I don't need to send so many messages, all the messages that I need to send to Ryan I have sent to him and he understands perfectly.

"I must be really satisfied with his work and I don't have any problem with this man, he shows high level of professionalism for one boy, well not boy, man, and at the end at 17-years-old he's quiet and it's only what I detect.

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14121526.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/PBP_SAH__WL180038_0009.jpg)

"He wants to improve himself and he is working daily, he's focused on all the messages and for our plans in training and from games and I cannot complain about any step that this player has made.

"This declaration from Tony Khan, I don't believe will affect him in any negative way and is completely positive and this man I am sure will use these few months to improve himself and to improve his value in front of the older people who observe how he's improving in this profession.

"At the end, the message is simple for him, he will stay and I understand he will accept it in a positive way and be in the best mood and way for this period in front of us."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/slavisa-jokanovic-hails-news-ryan-14142254

Cairney could miss Middlesbrough trip
by Dan on January 11, 2018

Slavisa Jokanovic has admitted that captain Tom Cairney could miss Fulham's trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday as the midfielder is once again struggling with the knee injury that has so disrupted his 2017/18 season.

Jokanovic rested Cairney for last weekend's FA Cup third round defeat by Southampton to try and give his skipper the best chance of featuring when the Whites returned to league action but the Fulham head coach told his press conference this afternoon that he was still unsure whether the Scottish international would be able to feature against Tony Pulis's side.

Jokanovic revealed that Fulham would give the former Blackburn Rovers playmaker as much time as possible to regain full fitness and that he would be assessed again ahead of the trip to the Riverside:

    With Tom Cairney it's many months he's been in an up/down situation, we must asses the situation with him and in this moment we don't know if he will be available or not for the Boro game. He is one of our best players and all the season he's been with some kind of a problem and we didn't find a quality enough solution for his knee.

    At the end, we expect to find the best version of this man because this man can make us play better football and can make people around him be better. We expect we will find some solution, there's too many up/downs and this kind of situation can damage himself, and us too but it's part of the football and we are going to find the solution.

Jokanovic also revealed that Floyd Ayite is definitely out of contention for the trip to the north east with a calf injury, whilst goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli and Kevin McDonald are in with a chance of playing having returned to training earlier today.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/cairney-could-miss-middlesbrough-trip/

Fulham's February fixtures moved
by Dan on January 11, 2018

Fulham have seen their February fixtures at Bristol City and at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers moved.

The Whites' game at Ashton Gate has been moved back by a day after City's home game against Leeds United was selected for television coverage. The Whites' trip to Bristol City, originally scheduled for Tuesday 20 February, will now be played the following day – Wednesday 21 February – with kick off at 7.45pm.

Fulham's home game with Championship leaders Wolves on Saturday 24 February has been chosen for live television coverage by Sky Sports. The game, to be screened on Sky Sports Football, will now kick off at 5.30pm rather than 3pm.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/fulhams-february-fixtures-moved/

Jokanovic salutes 'fantastic' Sessegnon news
by Dan on January 11, 2018

Slavisa Jokanovic has hailed Ryan Sessegnon's decision to remain with Fulham until at least the end of the current campaign as 'fantastic news'.

Fulham's vice chairman and director of football Tony Khan announced last night that highly coveted 17 year-old, who has featured in every league game so far this season, would not be leaving Craven Cottage during the January transfer window – dampening speculation that Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur were close to concluding big-money moves for the England youth international. Jokanovic, who has been vocal about Fulham's transfer policy in the best, was delighted with the news.

The Serbian head coach told today's press conference at Motspur Park:

    This is fantastic news for us, for myself, for my team, for the Club, for the supporters and for Ryan Sessegnon too. We're probably going to start talking about a similar story in the summer, but now it's a safe situation for us, like it is for him.

    He can be focused only on daily work, and competing with Fulham. I don't have any problem with Ryan, he's a quiet man.

Jokanovic went on to stress just how impressed he has been with Sessegnon's maturity since fast tracking him into Fulham's first team squad at the tender age of 16 last season.

    Ryan knows he's going to be an important player for the next 15 years. Now it's time for him to be focused on trying to prove himself in this period that's immediately ahead of him and ahead of us.

    I don't need to send so many messages, all the messages that I need to send to Ryan I have sent to him and he understands perfectly. I must be really satisfied with his work and I don't have any problem with this man, he shows high level of professionalism for one boy, well not boy, man, and at the end at 17-years-old he's quiet and it's only what I detect. He wants to improve himself and he is working daily, he's focused on all the messages and for our plans in training and from games and I cannot complain about any step that this player has made.

The Fulham head coach insisted that the latest news would not alter Sessegnon's focus in any respect.

    This declaration from Tony Khan, I don't believe will affect him in any negative way and is completely positive and this man I am sure will use these few months to improve himself and to improve his value in front of the older people who observe how he's improving in this profession. At the end, the message is simple for him, he will stay and I understand he will accept it in a positive way and be in the best mood and way for this period in front of us.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/jokanovic-salutes-fantastic-sessegnon-news/

 
Ryan Sessegnon: 'Fantastic' that Man Utd and Tottenham target will remain at Fulham


Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic has welcomed news that Ryan Sessegnon will not be sold in January, amid interest from Manchester United and Tottenham.

Whites vice chairman Tony Khan told the Telegraph that the 17-year-old, who can play at left-back or on the wing, will remain at Craven Cottage this month.

"This is fantastic news for myself, the club, supporters, and for Ryan too," Jokanovic told BBC Radio London.

"He can be focused on his daily work and competing with Fulham."

He added: "We're probably going to start talking about a similar story in the summer, but now it's a safe situation for us."

Sessegnon joined Fulham at the age of eight and made his first-team debut for the west London side in August 2016.

He scored seven goals in 30 appearances for Fulham last season and is the club's top scorer this season, with his seven goals including a hat-trick at Sheffield United in November.

An England Under-19 international, Sessegnon signed his first professional deal last summer, committing to Fulham until June 2020.

"I don't have any problem with Ryan - he is a quiet man," Jokanovic, 49, added. "Ryan knows he will be an important player in the next 15 years.

"Now it's time for him to be focused and try to improve himself in this period that is immediately ahead of him and ahead of us."



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/42653086

Fulham linked with loan move for Borthwick-Jackson
by Dan on January 11, 2018

Fulham have been linked with a January move for Manchester United defender Cameron Borthwick-Jackson after the Red Devils decided to cut short his loan spell at Leeds United.

The Daily Mail reports that the Whites have joined Reading at the front of queue for the left back, who was expected to fall down the pecking order at Elland Road after the arrival of Laurens De Bock. The 20 year-old, who has made ten Premier League appearances for the Old Trafford club and also appeared in the Champions League, has struggled to make much of an impression during his loan spell in Yorkshire, making just one league start back in August.

Borthwick-Jackson, an England under-20 international, is a versatile defender, who can play at centre back or at left back. He spent the first half of last season on loan at Wolverhampton Wanderers and is highly rated by many at Melwood. Fulham are keen to bring in reinforcements both at the heart of their defence and at left back, where Rafa Soares has struggled to prove his fitness since arriving at the club on loan back in August.

The Whites have been heavily linked with a loan move for Southampton full-back Matthew Targett but that deal has floundered due to concerns about the England under-21 international's fitness.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/fulham-linked-with-loan-move-for-borthwick-jackson/

 
Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic gives transfer update on Ryan Fredericks and potential incomings

The full back has been linked with Stoke and Swansea but Jokanovic has said he doesn't know anything about the rumours

Slavisa Jokanovic insists he doesn't know anything about the rumours linking Ryan Fredericks with a move away from the Cottage, and expects his side will be strengthened soon.

Fredericks, who has six months left on his contract at Fulham, has been offered a new deal but rumours have been rife with a move away from the club, first with Stoke City and then with Swansea interested in the full back.

GetWestLondon understands that Fulham are adamant that none of their key players will be leaving the club this January, something they have publicly made clear with Ryan Sessegnon.

The 25-year-old has been training with the side ahead of the game with Middlesbrough and is expected to make the trip to the Riverside, and although it isn't up to Jokanovic on who leaves the club, he wants Fredericks to stay.

When asked if there was anything he could say on rumours, he said: "No - these few words that Tony Khan said on Ryan Sessegnon is good news for us and the player too.

"I don't know about these rumours or links with Ryan Fredericks, all the people know I use him in all the games and for the team and myself he is an important player.

"What kind of steps we are going to take, I don't need to make any comment on but at the end I expect we are going to be stronger soon that what we are right now.

"I expect this guy, who is still not under contract as it ends at the end of the season, but for another side I understand the sport/business stuff and I don't know what solution is best for us, but it is not in my hands.

"Before we were talking about three players and now it has been ten days, I expect something will happen but it's not in my hands and we'll be focused on preparing the team for Boro.

"We will see, at the end, club need to make a step what we believe is important step for the team, and I expect something will happen."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-boss-slavisa-jokanovic-gives-14142573

 
How Fulham Could Line Up After The January Transfer Window Fitting In This Premier League Attacker

How Fulham Could Line Up After The January Transfer Window Fitting In Lewis Grabban

Lewis Grabban has been re-called from Sunderland by Bournemouth as expected and will be sold before the end of the month. Fulham are one of a number of clubs looking to nab him and if he arrives in West London, it may well be one of the best pieces of business they have done in a long while.

If I had any influence at Fulham at all, I would kick, scream, shout and even beg Slavisa Jokanovic to go back to the 4-2-3-1 formation which worked so well for him last season and crucially works so well for the players he has at his disposal.

With a 4-2-3-1 in mind, here's how they could look with Grabban in the mix:

GK – David Button

Marcus Bettinelli may prove to be a better long-term prospect but Button is coming to just the right age for a 'keeper.


RB – Ryan Fredericks

One of so, so many reasons to love the 4-2-3-1, given that he can bomb forward more and join the attack.
CB – Tomas Kalas

He now knows the club inside and out and even if he doesn't eventually make it in the Premier League, he is definitely among the better centre-backs in this league.
CB – Tim Ream

This settled centre-back pairing is still the way to go you feel.
LB – Rafa Soares

Alright, he's no Scott Malone but then neither is Odoi on this side. So in the interests of balance, maybe he should be allowed a longer run in the side with Sessegnon further forward.

(https://soccersouls.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/lewis-grabban-1024x683.jpg)

CM – Kevin McDonald

The linchpin, truly, though it seems both Middlesbrough and Rangers are looking to poach him before the month ends.
CM – Stefan Johansen

One of the many players to have been inconvenienced by the change in formation this season. Starting from deep, next to McDonald, Johansen doesn't intrude the space occupied by the front four, yet has a knack for breaking through and contributing more goals.
RW – Sheyi Ojo

Fits into this system well, cutting in from the right, on to his left foot, just as Sone Aluko did last term to good effect.
CAM – Tom Cairney

Bridges the gap superbly between the midfield and the striker, similar to Steven Gerrard. He has to play centrally and must hate this year's 4-3-3, which is blunting his influence.
LW – Ryan Sessegnon

Utterly, completely wasted at left-back. Every time Sessegnon is asked to play further forward, even since getting into the side as a 16-year-old, he scores and creates goals. It's that simple.
ST – Lewis Grabban

Should Grabban arrive, then he would definitely have to play in the No.9 position, providing Fulham with the bulk of their goals, which his current form says he is capable of doing.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/01/12/how-fulham-could-line-up-after-the-january-transfer-window-fitting-in-this-premier-league-attacker/

Jokanovic hopes Fulham hold onto Fredericks
by Dan on January 12, 2018

Slavisa Jokanovic insists he remains unaware of any suggestion that Ryan Fredericks could be about to leave Fulham – and hopes that his squad will be strengthened in the next few days.

The Fulham head coach professed ignorance of rumours linking the Fulham right back with a potential move to Premier League Swansea City or Stoke City and told reporters at his press conference yesterday that the full-back had trained with the first team head of Saturday's trip to Middlesbrough. Jokanovic said the 25 year-old was very much in his plans for the visit to the Riverside Stadium:

    I don't know about these rumours or links with Ryan Fredericks, all the people know I use him in all the games and for the team and myself he is an important player. What kind of steps we are going to take, I don't need to make any comment on but at the end I expect we are going to be stronger soon that what we are right now.

    I expect this guy, who is still not under contract as it ends at the end of the season, but for another side I understand the sport, business stuff and I don't know what solution is best for us, but it is not in my hands.

    Before we were talking about three players and now it has been ten days, I expect something will happen but it's not in my hands and we'll be focused on preparing the team for Boro. We will see, at the end, club need to make a step what we believe is important step for the team, and I expect something will happen.

The signs are that Fulham, who are still in discussions with Fredericks about extending his contract beyond this summer, are prepared to play hardball with any potential suitors about the right back's availability. The club have received no offers for the former Tottenham and Bristol City defender – and a Daily Mirror report suggests Fulham's £5m valuation may have encouraged Swansea to switch their attentions to other targets.

Fredericks, who joined Fulham from Ashton Gate for a fee of around £500,000 in August 2015, has made 92 appearances for the Whites and became Jokanovic's first choice right back. The pacy defender told GetWestLondon's Ryan O'Donovan in December that he was concentrating on furthering Fulham's bid for promotion from the Championship rather than any contract negotiations.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/01/jokanovic-hopes-fulham-hold-onto-fredericks/

 
Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic discusses his relationship with data analyst James Lovell

Lovell was appointed as the interim data analyst after Craig Kline's sacking and Jokanovic has spoken for the first time about him

Slavisa Jokanovic has described his relationship with Craig Kline's replacement, James Lovell, as "fantastic."

The head coach and the former assistant director of football operations didn't see eye-to-eye on Kline's transfer policy whilst he was at the club - with his time being cut when he was sacked in November.

Lovell, who has been at Fulham since 2011, is now one of the men responsible for transfer dealings at the club, and Jokanovic has described the pair's working relationship as 'fantastic' - something that could not be said for the 49-year-old and Kline's relationship.

He said: "It's fantastic, everything is fantastic and it's nice.

"I don't know in what kind of the relationship we are thinking but I have made my job, and sometimes I go outside of my job and have the repetition.

"I expect the club are going to make a positive step and I expect us and all the coaches are going to be stronger tomorrow than what we are today."




https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-boss-slavisa-jokanovic-discusses-14142771

Which game last year did we play a 4-2-3-1? McDonald hardly ever had someone beside him, so I'm not sure if that is accurate. I could be wrong though.