Friday Fulham Stuff (17/03/17)...

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Report: Burton Albion linked with permanent deal for Fulham loanee Cauley Woodrow

Cauley Woodrow has three goals to his name since joining Burton Albion on loan in January

Burton Albion have been linked with a potential permanent move for Fulham loanee Cauley Woodrow. The England under-21 international striker has scored three goals for the Brewers since joining on loan in January – and Albion have won all of the games in which he has found the net.

Woodrow's well-struck free-kick earned Albion a 1-0 victory against Nottingham Forest last Saturday and leapfrogged Nigel Clough's men above the Reds in the Championship table.

According to reports, the Brewers could be interested in breaking their transfer record – set last summer when Jackson Irvine signed for Albion from Ross County – to secure Woodrow on a permanent deal.

But Albion are unlikely to make too many plans for next season until they know what division they will be competing in, with just three points separating them from the Championship relegation zone with nine games to go.

Asked if Albion would be holding off until the end of the season, manager Nigel Clough said: "We have to wait, we have to wait.

"Cauley has got a contract at Fulham which we can't afford."



Read more at http://www.burtonmail.co.uk/report-burton-albion-linked-with-permanent-deal-for-fulham-loanee-cauley-woodrow/story-30207940-detail/story.html#gYcgIZXqTQ2QYsJi.99

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Match Day Officials v Fulham (18/3/17)

The Football League have now announced the Match Day officials that will take charge of the game against Fulham this Saturday.

Wolverhampton Wanderers travel to Fulham on Saturday March 18 for the game at Craven Cottage and the match carries a 3pm kick off.

Referee: Christopher Kavanagh
Linesmen: John Flynn and Mark Pottage
Fourth Official: Neil Davies

Match Day referee Kavanagh has officiated 32 games in 2016/17 with a return of 106 yellow cards and two red cards.

His highest card count this season was eight yellows in the game between Derby County and Nottingham Forest.

He took in 32 matches in 2015-16 and in those games, across all competitions and football divisions, he handed out a total of 114 yellow cards and three red cards.

He's pretty card card happy. In the match between Huddersfield and Preston on Boxing Day he showed a total of seven yellows. Blackpool and Barnsley on September 19 saw a total of six yellows and he also showed six earlier in the season in the Capital One Cup clash between Aston Villa and Notts County in August. In the MK Dons and Brighton match in March he showed eight yellows, with one red.

Kavanagh started refereeing in 1998 at the age of 13. Sixteen years later, he was appointed to the EFL Referees List and has now refereed over 50 EFL matches, including more than 20 Championship games. As part of the PGMO development programme, he officiated in the Dallas Cup in 2014 and was appointed as the fourth official for the FA Vase Final at Wembley in 2015.

Source - EFL.

Let`s hope it`s not another repeat and more of our players edge closer to automatic bans.



Read more: http://www.wolves.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=484241#ixzz4bZA2eXl6

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International Call-Ups

Details of the Fulham players called up for international duty. Any further call-ups will be detailed on fulhamfc.com in due course.

Senior squad:

Floyd Ayité (Togo) – Friendly

Tom Cairney (Scotland) – Friendly & World Cup Qualifier

Stefan Johansen (Norway) – World Cup Qualifier

Jesse Joronen (Finland) – World Cup Qualifier & Friendly

Mattias Kait (Estonia) – World Cup Qualifier & Friendly

Tomas Kalas (Czech Republic) – Friendly & World Cup Qualifier

Neeskens Kebano (Congo) – Friendly

Michael Madl (Austria) – World Cup Qualifier & Friendly

Chris Martin (Scotland) – Friendly & World Cup Qualifier

Tim Ream (United States) – World Cup Qualifiers

Under-21s

Marek Rodák (Slovakia) – Friendlies

Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson (Iceland) – Friendlies

Cauley Woodrow (England) – Friendlies

Under-19s

Tayo Edun (England) – Elite Round Qualifiers

Ryan Sessegnon (England) – Elite Round Qualifiers
Under-17s

Steven Sessegnon (England) – Elite Round Qualifiers

Any additional call-ups will be detailed on fulhamfc.com in due course.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/16/international-call-ups

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How much longer can Fulham keep hold of Ryan Sessegnon?
SAM WALLACE
CHIEF FOOTBALL WRITER

Ryan Sessegnon is a wanted man CREDIT: REX FEATURES

Whatever he goes on to achieve in his career, Ryan Sessegnon will always be the 21st-century man of English football, the first player in the professional game born after the turn of the millennium to score a goal in one of the top four divisions – although that should be just the beginning.

It has been a remarkable season for Fulham's 16-year-old left-sided player who had arguably his greatest impact yet on Saturday with two goals against the Championship leaders Newcastle United at St James' Park.

That was the moment that will have forced many to take notice but already Sessegnon was playing in his 23rd game of his debut season, and took his goals total to six.

Sessegnon has a twin brother Steven in the Fulham academy, a right-footed defender, already in the club's under-23s team. The two of them played together for England Under-16s in the Nike Cup in November 2015 when Steven sustained a knee injury that briefly stalled his progress.

In the meantime, Ryan has established himself in Fulham's first team as well as playing above his peer group with England Under-19s.

Two brothers born in Roehampton in south west London to French parents and thriving at their local club, which also has one of the best academies for producing young footballers – so far, so good. But the Sessegnon boys are no longer a secret and already Ryan's goals at the weekend have prompted the usual questions. Will it be Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur or Manchester United who make an offer he cannot refuse?

That is how the story so often ends for the best young players in the country, most commonly at Chelsea and Manchester City, who have dominated development football in recent years and are in the FA Youth Cup semi-finals again this month. It is a question that goes to the heart of the game: how to put the boys' long-term interests first, amid an arms race for young talent among the top clubs who have a tendency to stockpile players?

The Sessegnons cannot sign a professional contract until they turn 17 on May 18 but already have a heads of agreement with Fulham for four-year deals to begin on their birthday and the club are naturally eager to protect assets into which they have put so much faith and resources. Fulham are also offering a well-trodden route from academy to first team, which the likes of City and Chelsea cannot promise.

Under their academy director Huw Jennings, who played a key role bringing through Theo Walcott and Gareth Bale at Southampton, Fulham have thrived as a category one academy, the highest ranking under the Elite Player Performance Plan that governs development football. The problem is that they are losing their players earlier than ever, and not all are going on to play first-team football.

Patrick Roberts, 20, came to Fulham from AFC Wimbledon aged 13, was sold to Manchester City in the summer of 2015 and is now a regular on loan at Celtic. The United States international Emerson Hyndman, 20, was sold to Bournemouth last summer and in now on loan in the Scottish Premiership at Rangers.

Moussa Dembélé, picked up from Paris St-Germain aged 16, is a different case in that he played more than 70 first-team games for Fulham until he was sold to Celtic last summer and is now valued at upwards of £30 million.

Realistically, even if they return to the Premier League, Fulham will always sell their very best talent, but when they do so is critical. Losing first-team players is one thing, but the trade in academy boys is quite another, and the more that certain clubs use their financial power to attract these players under the EPPP tariff system, the less incentive there is for good clubs to produce good prospects.

The Premier League is investigating four transfers between category one-rated academies that it has so far refused to sign off because of allegations that inducements have been offered. Last summer the clubs with category one academies, of which there are 24 across the Premier League and Championship, agreed to a five-point protocol for the transfer of boys between their clubs.

The Premier League is now regularly sending lawyers to the homes of academy players to question parents about the details of their sons' transfers, and obtain signed declarations that rules on inducements have not been broken. It is the necessary, albeit absurd, consequence of a game so awash with money that parents of the most promising seven and eight-year-old players are being offered by one club "welfare support" expenses of around £1,200 a month to ensure their loyalty.

Unfortunately it is no longer simply about the development of the boys, or just an effective youth policy – given how few make it into the first teams of the top clubs. Rather it is a business transaction with big budgets at the disposal of the wealthiest clubs, and recruiters told to do what it takes.

Of course, the top players have always eventually ended up at the top clubs with very few exceptions. The difference being that many of the leading players even of our recent past – from Bryan Robson and John Barnes to Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney – did so having established themselves in the first teams of their origin clubs, and earned good transfer fees when they did leave.

Nowadays, recruitment by big clubs is a mine-sweeping exercise with clubs calculating that a drag-net of 20 boys makes more financial sense than having to pay £30 million for one of that group once he is an established first-team player elsewhere. Whether it is best for the boys is debatable.

There are more coming through at Fulham, including the England Under-18s Tayo Edun and Dennis Adeniran, and they will watch what choices the Sessegnons with interest. It would feel right if Ryan and Steven were at least to finish their teenage years at the institution that has nourished them, and in familiar surroundings – as you might wish for any young adult, footballer or not.


http://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2017/03/15/much-longer-can-fulham-keep-hold-ryan-sessegnon/

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Slavisa Jokanovic expects Fulham to welcome some of their injured stars back after the international break
Fulham one of the smaller squads out of those chasing the play-off places and they have been hit by injuries in recent weeks, including once to star player Lucas Piazon

Slavisa Jokanovic is looking forward to the international break so that some of his injured players can make their way back to his already small squad.

Fulham are without Lucas Piazon and Floyed Ayite and were missing captain Scott Parker for the game against Blackburn in midweek after he suffered a back injury in training.

The Cottagers have one of the smallest squads out of those challenging for the play-off places and Jokanovic bemoaned the absence of Parker against Blackburn, who he felt could have helped to see the game out with his experience.

And the boss expects some of his injured stars will return after the international break.

He said: "We are not the biggest squad in this moment.

"I am without some important players, I expect I am going to recover some players in this international break.

"I missed Scott Parker for the last 15 minutes to help us with his experience and his spirit to push the team. In the last games I gave him less minutes, but I gave him really important periods in the game.

"(Against Blackburn) probably if he was available I could have used him. But he wasn't, and that's it. We keep going to be ready for the game in front of us."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/slavisa-jokanovic-expects-fulham-welcome-12747374

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Why Ryan Tunnicliffe would be a great signing for Rangers

The Fulham man has been linked with a summer switch to Glasgow Rangers.

According to a recent report from the Daily Mail, Rangers are among the clubs interested in signing Ryan Tunnicliffe when his Fulham contract expires this summer, and if the 24-year-old were to arrive at Ibrox it could be a very canny deal for new Gers boss Pedro Caixinha.

Tunnicliffe came through the ranks at Manchester United, where he was rated as a fine prospect in the centre of the park, and he was crowned the club's Young Player of the Year after guiding his team to the FA Youth Cup in 2011.

His senior United debut followed, and while things have not gone according to plan since, it would be foolish to write him off so soon.

Much was down to fate, with Fulham signing him when former United coach Rene Meulensteen took charge at Craven Cottage.

The Dutchman knew Tunnicliffe well from their time together at United and the midfielder looked to have found a club where he could play regularly and develop his game.

When Meulensteen was sacked, things took a turn for the worse for the player and he has been floundering since, but a move to Rangers could be exactly what he needs to fulfil his potential.

Caixinha needs steel and skill in the centre of the park and the alleged Rangers target has that in abundance.

He is still years away from his peak but he understands what it means to represent a huge club after coming through the ranks at United under Sir Alex Ferguson, and with a point to prove he could take Rangers to the next level.

When you consider he will also be a free agent, this is one move Rangers should make before they are beaten to the punch.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/16/why-ryan-tunnicliffe-would-be-a-great-signing-for-rangers/

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Foundation Offices

Fulham Football Club Foundation is moving office from 2pm on Thursday 16th March, so phones will be down temporarily. They will be back live on the phones at 9am on Monday 20th March. Please email: [email protected] in the meantime and someone will respond as soon as possible.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/15/foundation-offices

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How many?! Fulham have so many players away on international duty next week
Ten Fulham players are away on duty for their countries coming up


Tom Cairney is one of ten players away on international duty next week (Photo: Alex Pantling/GettyImages)

Fulham have ten first team squad members away in the international break next week.

The Whites will take on Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Championship this weekend, before a number of stars head off to take part in friendlies and World Cup qualifying games.

Floyd Ayité (Togo) and Neeskens Kebano (Congo) will hope to take part in friendly matches only, while Tomas Kalas (Czech Republic), Chris Martin and Tom Cairney (Scotland) will also have friendly games before World Cup qualifiers, as do Jesse Joronen (Finland), Michael Madl (Austria) and Mattias Kait (Estonia.

Stefan Johansen (Norway) and Tim Ream (United States) both have just World Cup qualifiers.

Fulham could sneak into the play-offs with a win against Wolves, with fourth and fifth placed Reading and Sheffield Wednesday squaring off tonight. A draw would be the best result Fulham can hope for.

Boss Slavisa Jokanovic will be hoping to go into the international break with a win and a place in the top five, where there would be a real chance to go as high as fourth, with Leeds currently occupying that position on 66 points.

It is sure to be an exciting end to the season at Craven Cottage.


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/how-many-fulham-many-players-12750772

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Why Tottenham should not mind if Ryan Sessegnon opts for Fulham stay

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly been keeping a very close eye on the Fulham youngster.

Even before his two-goal haul against Newcastle United earlier this month, Fulham youngster Ryan Sessegnon was generating column inches at an impressive rate.

According to a recent report from the Daily Mail, Tottenham Hotspur are keen to tie up a deal for the 16-year-old full-back-cum-winger in the summer, but if the teenager opts to continue his development at Craven Cottage, Spurs should not be overly disappointed.

At first glance, missing out on the exciting left-back would be a hammer blow to a Tottenham side whose fans still cannot quite believe they failed to bring Moussa Dembele to White Hart Lane prior to his Celtic switch.

But provided Sessegnon stays where he is, Tottenham can quietly keep monitoring his situation and potentially benefit from his prolonged stay at the Cottagers.

Tottenham are well stocked at left-back right now, with Danny Rose the undisputed number one and Ben Davies impressing in the England international's recent absence.

It could be argued that Spurs would benefit from playing Sessegnon further forward, but wingers are notoriously hit-and-miss when it comes to form and, at just 16, it would be unfair to expect too much too soon of Sessegnon.

It would be far better if he stays at Fulham, develops his game and comes to Tottenham when he is older.

Of course securing a deal will be paramount for Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino, yet as long as the youngster does not have eyes for someone else, a little longer at his current club could be best for all concerned.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/16/why-tottenham-should-not-mind-if-ryan-sessegnon-opts-for-fulham/

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CAULEY WOODROW CALLED UP TO ENGLAND U21 SIDE

ON-LOAN striker Cauley Woodrow has been called up to represent England U21s in two friendlies this month.
Aidy Boothroyd's men will face Germany and Denmark in two away games as they prepare for June's U21s UEFA Championships in Poland.

Woodrow could come up against his fellow Burton Albion team mate Lasse Vigen Christensen when England take on Denmark on 27 March.

The on-loan Fulham forward has scored six goals for England in 14 appearances from U17-U21 level.

Germany vs England: 24.03.17: 19:00 (UK Time)
Venue: Brita-Arena, Wiesbaden

Denmark vs England: 27.03.17: 18:00 (UK Time)
Venue: Randers Stadium, Randers

The full England U21 squad is as follows:

Angus Gunn (Manchester City), Jordan Pickford (Sunderland), Christian Walton (Brighton & Hove Albion), Ben Chilwell (Leicester City), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Kortney Hause (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Rob Holding (Arsenal), Mason Holgate (Everton), Alfie Mawson (Swansea City), Sam McQueen (Southampton), Jack Stephens (Southampton), Lewis Baker (Vitesse Arnhem – on loan from Chelsea), Nathaniel Chalobah (Chelsea), Jack Grealish (Aston Villa), Will Hughes (Derby County), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Chelsea), John Swift (Reading), Harry Winks (Tottenham Hotspur), Tammy Abraham (Bristol City – on loan from Chelsea), Isaiah Brown (Huddersfield Town – on loan from Chelsea), Demarai Gray (Leicester City), Solly March (Brighton & Hove Albion),  Cauley Woodrow (Burton Albion – on loan from Fulham).



Read more at http://www.burtonalbionfc.co.uk/news/article/2016-17/cauley-woodrow-called-up-to-england-u21-side-3629421.aspx#bxRXA2WalwFM8krE.99

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Phil Hay prediction: Where Leeds United and promotion rivals will finish in the 2016/17 Championship table

THE state of play in the Championship – too close to call with fixtures running out – explains why Gordon Strachan felt like "a balloon deflating" when Leeds United won promotion from the second division in 1990. "The pressure's been stored up over 46 games," a relieved Strachan said and on that occasion it did not release until the final day. Last season produced its own tension as Middlesbrough and Brighton fought for second place in in their last fixture and the Championship is heading that way again. Newcastle and Brighton are as close as each other to the title. Huddersfield, with a game in hand, are still within reach of a top-two finish and a 2-2 draw between Fulham and Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night left a gap of five points between Leeds United in fourth and Fulham in seventh, with Reading and Sheffield Wednesday in between. Here, the YEP looks at the clubs' respective run-ins and how the division might look on May 7.

********************* Newcastle United The expectation that Newcastle would run away with the league was a little excessive but they are at the front of the field and their next three games are precisely what Rafa Benitez would want: away at a brittle Birmingham side before home matches against Burton and Wigan. Those fixtures should yield at least seven points provided Newcastle play well and they ought to be on the brink before they stray into difficult meetings with Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds next month. Expect the last closing weeks to be carnival time on Tyneside. Remaining games: Birmingham (a), Wigan (h), Burton (h), Sheff Wed (a), Leeds (h), Ipswich (a), Preston (h), Cardiff (a), Barnsley (h). Predicted finish: 1st.


********************** Brighton & Hove Albion Saturday's visit to Elland Road can set the tone for Brighton, one way or the other. t is, all things considered, the most trying of their remaining matches and although Chris Hughton's side haven't quite been able to shake off Huddersfield, their run-in is favourable enough and games against Blackburn, Birmingham, Wolves, Wigan and Bristol City suggest that they'll gather enough points to edge over the line, avoiding the final-day let-down they suffered at Middlesbrough last season. Huddersfield will not be far behind, though. Remaining games: Leeds (a), Blackburn (h), Birmingham (h), QPR (a), Wolves (a), Wigan (h), Norwich (a), Bristol City (h), Aston Villa (a). Predicted finish: 2nd.


********************* Huddersfield Town The only remaining threat to the top two but breaking into the automatic promotion places is going to take a supreme streak of results. Huddersfield are capable of it. The club have won nine of their last 12 league matches and lost only to Newcastle and Sheffield Wednesday and the fixtures they have left do not show a single meeting with any other side in the top six. But they are six points behind Brighton and their game in hand, away at Molineux, will not come into play until the penultimate week of the season. They need a combination of flawless football and help from elsewhere – and if that eludes them, they will be the big threat in the play-offs. Remaining games: Bristol City (a), Burton (h), Norwich (h), Forest (a), Preston (h), Derby (a), Fulham (h), Wolves (a), Birmingham (a), Cardiff (h). Predicted finish: 3rd.


********************* Leeds United The club's next five matches look extremely demanding – four top-eight clubs either side of a midweek trip to Brentford – and much rests on United's next two. If Leeds can take points from Brighton and Reading then the weeks beyond the start of April will look considerably less stressful. Lose both and Garry Monk's players will have clubs swarming all over them. But even in those circumstances, the saving grace might be the helpful sequence of matches which takes Leeds to the finishing line. Wolves have struggled from the off, Burton are still threatened with relegation, Norwich's season is effectively over and Wigan are highly likely to be down by the time United contest the last of their 46 matches at the DW Stadium. Remaining games: Brighton (h), Reading (a), Brentford (a), Preston (h), Newcastle (a), Wolves (h), Burton (a), Norwich (h), Wigan (a). Predicted finish: 4th.

********************* Reading Their recent results must be a concern, showing two wins from eight, and tomorrow's clash at Sheffield Wednesday is followed by the visit of Leeds to the Madejski Stadium on the other side of the international break. Reading have produced wins in bursts this season and Jaap Stam needs another surge soon to stop his side dropping out of the top six. But he will not be unhappy about a fixture list which pits Reading against Rotherham, Nottingham Forest, Wigan and Burton in the final three weeks. If Stam is desperate for points then that spate of games is a glaring opportunity which might just ensure that Reading creep in. They cannot rely on their poor goal difference to help. Remaining games: Sheff Wed (a), Leeds (h), Blackburn (h), Norwich (a), Villa (a), Rotherham (h), Forest (a), Wigan (h), Burton (a). Predicted finish: 5th.


********************* Fulham Lucas Joao's late equaliser for Blackburn at Craven Cottage on Tuesday was a setback and for all that Fulham are the Championship's form team, they remain outside the play-off places and have not been in the top six since the earliest stages of the season. Their games in hand have gone and their away schedule appears to count against them too – featuring Derby, Norwich, Huddersfield and Sheffield Wednesday, but given that Fulham routed Newcastle at St James' Park last weekend, that might not be an obstacle for them. Dropped points at Craven Cottage could count against them in the end but form matters at the this stage and Fulham, with one defeat in 10, have it in spades. Remaining games: Wolves (h), Rotherham (a), Derby (a), Ipswich (h), Norwich (a), Aston Villa (h), Huddersfield (a), Brentford (h), Sheff Wed (a). Predicted finish: 6th.


********************* Sheffield Wednesday So much firepower but Sheffield Wednesday are the most exposed of the clubs in the top six. They are similar to Reading – capable of piecing winning runs together but also prone to losses of form, like the run they are on now. Four points accrued from their last five games is one of the reasons why Fulham are still in the hunt and it has to be said that Reading's run-in looks better than Wednesday's. Barnsley won't do them any favours away from home and they have difficult matches at Hillsborough to come against Reading, Newcastle, Cardiff and Derby – without even mentioning a potentially decisive meeting with Fulham on the last day. Might they fall short? Remaining games: Reading (h), Barnsley (a), Rotherham (a), Newcastle (h), Cardiff (h), QPR (a), Derby (h), Ipswich (a), Fulham (h). Predicted finish: 7th.

********************* Preston North End The wild card in the pack and, if truth be told, a club with no real chance of reaching the play-offs. Simon Grayson – the former Leeds United manager – thinks nine wins would be needed to take Preston into the top six and with his side on 56 points, he is not far wrong. Given that North End are lined up to go to Leeds, Huddersfield and Newcastle before the season finishes, they are looking at another year in the Championship and the bookies make them as long as 20-1 to make the play-offs. But they are good enough to cause a bit of trouble along the way. Remaining games: Blackburn (a), Forest (h), Bristol City (h), Leeds (a), Huddersfield (a), Norwich (h), Newcastle (a), Rotherham (h), Wolves (a). Predicted finish: 8th.

Last season produced its own tension as Middlesbrough and Brighton fought for second place in in their last fixture and the Championship is heading that way again. Newcastle and Brighton are as close as each other to the title.

Huddersfield, with a game in hand, are still within reach of a top-two finish and a 2-2 draw between Fulham and Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night left a gap of five points between Leeds United in fourth and Fulham in seventh, with Reading and Sheffield Wednesday in between.

Here, the YEP looks at the clubs' respective run-ins and how the division might look on May 7.

Newcastle United
The expectation that Newcastle would run away with the league was a little excessive but they are at the front of the field and their next three games are precisely what Rafa Benitez would want: away at a brittle Birmingham side before home matches against Burton and Wigan.

Those fixtures should yield at least seven points provided Newcastle play well and they ought to be on the brink before they stray into difficult meetings with Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds next month.

Expect the last closing weeks to be carnival time on Tyneside.

Remaining games: Birmingham (a), Wigan (h), Burton (h), Sheff Wed (a), Leeds (h), Ipswich (a), Preston (h), Cardiff (a), Barnsley (h).
Predicted finish: 1st.


Brighton & Hove Albion
Saturday's visit to Elland Road can set the tone for Brighton, one way or the other.

t is, all things considered, the most trying of their remaining matches and although Chris Hughton's side haven't quite been able to shake off Huddersfield, their run-in is favourable enough and games against Blackburn, Birmingham, Wolves, Wigan and Bristol City suggest that they'll gather enough points to edge over the line, avoiding the final-day let-down they suffered at Middlesbrough last season. Huddersfield will not be far behind, though.

Remaining games: Leeds (a), Blackburn (h), Birmingham (h), QPR (a), Wolves (a), Wigan (h), Norwich (a), Bristol City (h), Aston Villa (a).
Predicted finish: 2nd.


Huddersfield Town
The only remaining threat to the top two but breaking into the automatic promotion places is going to take a supreme streak of results.

Huddersfield are capable of it. The club have won nine of their last 12 league matches and lost only to Newcastle and Sheffield Wednesday and the fixtures they have left do not show a single meeting with any other side in the top six.

But they are six points behind Brighton and their game in hand, away at Molineux, will not come into play until the penultimate week of the season. They need a combination of flawless football and help from elsewhere – and if that eludes them, they will be the big threat in the play-offs.

Remaining games: Bristol City (a), Burton (h), Norwich (h), Forest (a), Preston (h), Derby (a), Fulham (h), Wolves (a), Birmingham (a), Cardiff (h).
Predicted finish: 3rd.


Leeds United The club's next five matches look extremely demanding – four top-eight clubs either side of a midweek trip to Brentford – and much rests on United's next two.

If Leeds can take points from Brighton and Reading then the weeks beyond the start of April will look considerably less stressful.

Lose both and Garry Monk's players will have clubs swarming all over them.

But even in those circumstances, the saving grace might be the helpful sequence of matches which takes Leeds to the finishing line.

Wolves have struggled from the off, Burton are still threatened with relegation, Norwich's season is effectively over and Wigan are highly likely to be down by the time United contest the last of their 46 matches at the DW Stadium.

Remaining games: Brighton (h), Reading (a), Brentford (a), Preston (h), Newcastle (a), Wolves (h), Burton (a), Norwich (h), Wigan (a).
Predicted finish: 4th.

Reading Their recent results must be a concern, showing two wins from eight, and tomorrow's clash at Sheffield Wednesday is followed by the visit of Leeds to the Madejski Stadium on the other side of the international break.

Reading have produced wins in bursts this season and Jaap Stam needs another surge soon to stop his side dropping out of the top six.

But he will not be unhappy about a fixture list which pits Reading against Rotherham, Nottingham Forest, Wigan and Burton in the final three weeks.

If Stam is desperate for points then that spate of games is a glaring opportunity which might just ensure that Reading creep in.

They cannot rely on their poor goal difference to help.

Remaining games: Sheff Wed (a), Leeds (h), Blackburn (h), Norwich (a), Villa (a), Rotherham (h), Forest (a), Wigan (h), Burton (a).
Predicted finish: 5th.


Fulham Lucas Joao's late equaliser for Blackburn at Craven Cottage on Tuesday was a setback and for all that Fulham are the Championship's form team, they remain outside the play-off places and have not been in the top six since the earliest stages of the season.

Their games in hand have gone and their away schedule appears to count against them too – featuring Derby, Norwich, Huddersfield and Sheffield Wednesday, but given that Fulham routed Newcastle at St James' Park last weekend, that might not be an obstacle for them.

Dropped points at Craven Cottage could count against them in the end but form matters at the this stage and Fulham, with one defeat in 10, have it in spades.

Remaining games: Wolves (h), Rotherham (a), Derby (a), Ipswich (h), Norwich (a), Aston Villa (h), Huddersfield (a), Brentford (h), Sheff Wed (a).
Predicted finish: 6th.


Sheffield Wednesday So much firepower but Sheffield Wednesday are the most exposed of the clubs in the top six.

They are similar to Reading – capable of piecing winning runs together but also prone to losses of form, like the run they are on now.

Four points accrued from their last five games is one of the reasons why Fulham are still in the hunt and it has to be said that Reading's run-in looks better than Wednesday's.

Barnsley won't do them any favours away from home and they have difficult matches at Hillsborough to come against Reading, Newcastle, Cardiff and Derby – without even mentioning a potentially decisive meeting with Fulham on the last day.

Might they fall short?

Remaining games: Reading (h), Barnsley (a), Rotherham (a), Newcastle (h), Cardiff (h), QPR (a), Derby (h), Ipswich (a), Fulham (h).
Predicted finish: 7th.

Preston North End The wild card in the pack and, if truth be told, a club with no real chance of reaching the play-offs.

Simon Grayson – the former Leeds United manager – thinks nine wins would be needed to take Preston into the top six and with his side on 56 points, he is not far wrong.

Given that North End are lined up to go to Leeds, Huddersfield and Newcastle before the season finishes, they are looking at another year in the Championship and the bookies make them as long as 20-1 to make the play-offs. But they are good enough to cause a bit of trouble along the way.

Remaining games: Blackburn (a), Forest (h), Bristol City (h), Leeds (a), Huddersfield (a), Norwich (h), Newcastle (a), Rotherham (h), Wolves (a).
Predicted finish: 8th.



Read more at: http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/phil-hay-prediction-where-leeds-united-and-promotion-rivals-will-finish-in-the-2016-17-championship-table-1-8440522

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Championship: Forest, Reading reportedly keeping tabs on Fulham hot-shot

Emilio Nsue of Middlesbrough is challenged by Ryan Tunnicliffe of Fulham

Nottingham Forest and Reading are reportedly keeping tabs on Fulham defender Ryan Tunnicliffe.

The 24-year-old looks set to leave Craven Cottage when his contract expires at the end of the season with a host of Championship clubs interested in the former Manchester United star.

Tunnicliffe, who is currently on loan at Wigan Athletic, has impressed at the DW Stadium and the Latics would like to make the move permanent.

But the midfielder could be tempted to move elsewhere, with Huddersfield, Brentford, QPR, Ipswich and Cardiff City also having shown an interest.

Scottish giants Rangers are also reportedly keeping an eye on his situation as they target a midfielder for next season.

Tunnicliffe has played over 150 Championship games and signed for Fulham in January 2014 for £1.25m. He has previously won the FA Youth Cup in a side that included Paul Pogba and former Derby County loan player Jesse Lingard, as well as current QPR player Ravel Morrison.



Read more at http://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/championship-forest-reading-reportedly-keeping-tabs-on-fulham-hot-shot/story-30208638-detail/story.html#fygqQcX26o6P7lyT.99

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EXCLUSIVE: Liverpool set to beat Arsenal, Spurs and Chelsea to teen sensation Ryan Sessegnon
England's top club's have all been battling for the 16-year-old star - but football.london has learnt the Reds have won the race


Ryan Sessegnon in action for Fulham against Tottenham

Arsenal look to have lost out in the race to sign Fulham whizzkid Ryan Sessegnon.

The Gunners are one of several top clubs in England keeping tabs on the 16-year-old sensation, who has made 23 appearances this season for the Championship club.

Chelsea and Spurs are also interested, but football.london understands that Sessegnon is on his way to Liverpool this summer.

The Anfield outfit are confident that they have landed the attacking left full-back, who scored twice last weekend as Fulham stunned Newcastle 3-1 at St James' Park.

Sessegnon, who came close to signing for Arsenal last summer, has been with Fulham since the age of nine.

He progressed through the youth ranks quickly and was handed his senior debut in August 2016 during a League Cup match against Leyton Orient, aged just 16 years and 81 days. He made his league debut a week later.

The England Under-19s international has gone on to become a key member of Slavisa Jokanovic's side, scoring six times this season.

He is still on a youth contract and Jokanovic said recently he hoped to persuade the teenager to stay at Craven Cottage and reject a big money move to the Premier League.

"I can only tell him that he will improve if he works and stays with us," said the Whites boss. "This is how I will try to convince him to stay with the club."

But with the big hitters from the top flight battling over his services, the prospect of Sessegnon staying in west London beyond the end of the season was always unlikely.

Manchester United are also admirers of the youngster, but Liverpool have been working tirelessly to get him to Anfield as they look to find a long-term solution to the left-back position.

Jurgen Klopp has had James Milner filling in on the left hand side of defence all season having lost faith with Alberto Moreno.



http://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/transfer-news/exclusive-liverpool-set-beat-arsenal-12752426

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He is on his way: Emphatic decision made by ace tracked by Tottenham for three years – report

Fulham wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon is on his way to Liverpool, according to a report.

Website Football London claim the Merseyside giants have been "working tirelessly" to seal a deal for the highly rated left-back, 16.

It is said that Liverpool have made a breakthrough in their pursuit and are confident that Sessegnon will sign for them in the summer.

It would be a major blow to Tottenham, with sources telling Football Insider that the north Londoners have been closely tracking the teen sensation since he was 14.

Football Insider revealed on Monday that Sessegnon had signed a pre-contract with Fulham as the club moved to protect themselves from Premier League predators ahead of the summer window.

He is still on a scholarship contract at the Championship outfit and cannot pen a professional deal until he turns 17 in May, but the pre-contract stipulates that he will sign a formal professional agreement at the earliest opportunity, which will be his birthday on 18 May.

This will enable Fulham to hold out for a higher fee for Sessegnon, who has also attracted interest from super clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Bayern Munich.

The youngster, who can play at both left-back and on the left wing, has made huge strides this season as well as demonstrating a genuine eye for goal.

He has scored six goals in the campaign, including two in Fulham's stunning 3-1 win at Newcastle last Saturday, and also weighed in with three assists, remarkable tallies for a player who is not only foremost a defender but also one who is so young.

Football Insider verdict:

There is not so much a queue to sign Sessegnon, as a stampede. Ridiculously talented and precocious, he would be a marvellous signing for any club whose manager is willing to put his faith in youth and hone them on the training pitch. Liverpool and Sessegnon appear an ideal fit. Jurgen Klopp is renowned for his development of outstanding young players, and there appears no limit to what Sessegnon can achieve. Fulham have known for some time they have a remarkable young player on their hands and the big boys have been beating a path to the Cottage to try and persuade the youngster to up sticks. A huge sum could still pass hands to push the deal through, but for a team crying out for a long-term left-back option, this could be a fabulous signing for Liverpool.


http://www.footballinsider247.com/tottenham-hit-massive-transfer-blow-report/

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Why Fulham have the power over Reading, Sheffield Wed, Norwich, Derby and maybe Leeds United for a play-off position


Fulham could really take advantage of teams around them coming up (Photo: Justin Setterfield/GettyImages)

Fulham will be in the play-offs going into the international break. Why? Simple.

They'll beat Wolves at the Cottage on Saturday. Forget Tuesday's draw against Blackburn Rovers, I expect Slavisa Jokanovic's men to bounce back at home before the break.

Wolves, OK, they are unbeaten in three but Fulham are in a much better place and have the better quality to overcome them.

All eyes will be on Reading versus Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night. What a game and what a time for Fulham to take advantage.

What would you prefer, Fulham fans? A Reading win to keep Wednesday back, or a draw? Even if Sheffield Wednesday win, Fulham will be in the play-offs if they beat Wolves, as their goal difference is far better than Reading's.

The next few games is a massive chance to really kick on. Automatic promotion is way out of reach, but Fulham are going to upset someone out of Wednesday, Reading and Leeds.

The chasing pack? Derby and Norwich could make a late push, but they'll have to have flawless results with their new managers. It will make it interesting, of course, but Fulham are in the driving seat.


Celebrations: Gohi Cyriac celebrates his first Fulham goal (Photo: Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

Looking at Wolves this weekend, they had lost five before their last three, which they have drawn once and won twice. Have they been convincing though? Not really.

A 2-1 win at Brentford and a 1-0 win over bottom side Rotherham United should not be enough to strike fear into Fulham, while their draw was goalless against Ipswich Town.

With nine games left, I think Jokanovic's side will need to win at least four or five to make sure of a play-off spot.

Sheffield Wednesday are too inconsistent, as are Reading. They could choke. Wednesday have two Yorkshire derbies coming up, then a game with Newcastle United.

And look at Leeds' next few games. Brighton, Reading, Brentford, Preston and Newcastle. They could really slip up and Fulham could be up to fourth.


Slavisa Jokanovic should be quietly confident (Photo: Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

If Fulham can take 12-15 points from now until that final day in May, they'll right in the mix and be the ones to knock someone out of the play-offs.

After that, as we know, anything can happen. A day out to Wembley and going up via the play-offs is definitely the best way. OK, I'm getting too far ahead of myself, perhaps.

There's Derby and Norwich still to play, too. If they don't lose to them, that's a bonus. Sheffield Wednesday on the last day of the season - it might come down to that, but I don't think it will.

Get the win against Wolves this weekend and it sets the Whites up well for when they return to action on April 1 against Rotherham, who could, by the way, be relegated this weekend with a defeat at Queens Park Rangers.

Sixty-seven points by the start of April is a realistic aim. The pressure is then on Derby and Norwich inside ten days to beat Jokanovic's men, while Wednesday have those derbies with Barnsley, Rotherham, and a tough game against Newcastle. And as mentioned above, Leeds' run isn't the greatest.

It's time to hit fifth gear, Fulham.


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-power-over-reading-sheffield-12752012

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Report: Liverpool set to beat Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal to signing of Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon

The teenager has excelled at Fulham this season, but looks to be on his way to Liverpool despite interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and a string of others.

Liverpool are set to win the race to sign teenage Fulham left-back Ryan Sessegnon, according to Football.London.

Sessegnon, who doesn't turn 17 until May, has excelled in his debut campaign for the Cottagers, whom he has helped to the brink of a Championship play-off place.

The England Under-19 international has only played 19 times in the league this season, but has still managed to score four goals and create another two for Slavisa Jokanovic's side.

According to Football.London, however, Sessegnon will be plying his under Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp next term, despite interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and a string of other Premier League clubs.

Liverpool's shortage of adequate left-backs has seen them deploy James Milner there for much of the campaign, despite the 31-year-old favouring a central midfield role.

And that is sure to appeal to Sessegnon, who may have found his path to the first team blocked at both Tottenham or Arsenal.

Spurs have both Danny Rose and Ben Davies on their books, with Arsenal's options comprising of Kieran Gibbs and Nacho Montreal.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/16/report-liverpool-set-to-beat-tottenham-hotspur-and-arsenal-to-si/

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Nottingham Forest in the running to sign Paul Pogba's ex-midfield partner Ryan Tunnicliffe

The Manchester United side of 2011 was one of the most talented of recent FA Youth Cup final winners, with the likes of Paul Pogba, Ravel Morrison and Jesse Lingard helping the club to success.

There was one player though who many considered the unsung hero of the side, and now Ryan Tunnicliffe is attracting attention from Nottingham Forest, according to reports in the Nottingham Post.

Tunnicliffe has been loaned out from Fulham to Wigan Athletic, but is set to be released this summer, meaning the 24-year-old would be available on a free transfer, something that should appeal to cash-strapped Forest.

It may not be easy to tempt Tunnicliffe to the City Ground as the midfielder has a host of other clubs interested in securing his services, with Reading, Cardiff City, Queens Park Rangers and Brentford among the sides considering a move the United academy graduate.

If Forest are looking for a combative midfielder, who could help break up the opposition's play and is capable of picking out a decent pass, then while Pogba is certainly not an option, his former team-mate just might be.


http://www.shoot.co.uk/nottingham-forest-in-the-running-to-sign-paul-pogbas-ex-midfield-partner-ryan-tunnicliffe/

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Why Fulham's 16-year-old sensation Ryan Sessegnon should stay at Craven Cottage - at least for now
The 16-year-old has the potential to go on to bigger and better things, but here's why he doesn't need to rush


Ryan Sessegnon celebrates scoring against Hull City in the FA Cup (Photo: Reuters)

Fulham fans are never under any illusions when it comes to who is going to stay at the club and who is going on to bigger and better things.

When Roy Hodgson introduced Chris Smalling to the first team, we knew someone would come calling, and, of course, Sir Alex Ferguson did.

It was the same when Patrick Roberts caused people to gasp in the Hammersmith End.

And when Moussa Demebele netted a then record-breaking 15 times in the Championship last season.

Ryan Sessegnon is the latest starlet fresh from Motspur Park, and the latest player we know will one day represent a top team.

Now that doesn't mean I'm getting the violin out just yet.

I'm proud my club, under the leadership of Academy Director Huw Jennings - the man responsible for the Gareth Bale-led generation at Southampton - is proving capable of producing (predominantly English) talent.

Not only does it bode well for the future of the national team, but it also has the potential to assist Fulham financially - the Demebele to Celtic deal aside.

Of course, it's always sad to see a good player leave your club but we've lost so many over the years, mostly to Tottenham, that it is an inevitably I think the majority of supporters have come to terms with.

What's more, we know deep down that ultimately these players deserve to be competing at the highest level - something we can't offer them - if they do indeed have the potential to play at it, like the Premier League scouts keeping tracks on Sessegnon seem to believe.

But putting all that to one side for a moment, I do not think the 16-year-old should leave Fulham - not just yet anyway. After Felix Magath took the Whites back 15 years the team entered into a rot.

Attempts were made to steady the ship, but it wasn't until Slavisa Jokanovic quite literally waved a magic wand that hope returned to the Cottage.

Now contrary to what many believe, Sessegnon has not featured that much at all this season - 13 times in the Championship, six of these from the bench.

Jokanovic has steadily and responsibly introduced the teenager to the first team, selecting him in both his natural left-back position and, more recently, on the left wing, where he played against Newcastle.

By all accounts he is handling the youngster brilliantly and utilising his pace and enthusiasm selectively, and to devastating effect.

Now of course, he will be well aware that his phone will be off the hook in the summer with managers looking to sign the "next Gareth Bale".

But if he can convince the youngster to stay in south west London, even just for one more season, it might just be the best thing for his career.

And here's why.

Firstly, he's 16. Just think about that for a moment.

Yes, footballers are getting younger and their careers are short, but Sessegnon isn't even allowed to legally drink alcohol.

One more season - at the very least - is not going to put prospective buyers off a bid next season.

But what one more season will ensure is that Sessegnon continues to progress in the same way he has been over the past eight years - away from the pressure and expectation that comes with being under a spotlight.

For those who don't know, the 16-year-old, who was born in nearby Wandsworth, joined the club when he was just eight years old.

His twin brother Steven is also at Craven Cottage, and Sessegnon has benefited greatly from this unique connection to the club.

Not only has he grown up under the watchful eye of the coaching staff, but he has also had previous interactions with the first team players he now lines up alongside.

A summer move to a big club would likely see him loaned straight back to a Championship outfit, who will perhaps expect a lot more from him, given his sudden rise in stature.

They're not likely to care about his development or confidence either - he's not their player after all - not like Jokanovic, who referred to the youngster as an "interesting project" and one he doesn't want to "put under any pressure."

There is of course always the chance he is placed in the team's reserves or youth squad - in an unfamiliar setting - and is forced to battle it out with the other potential stars of the next generation for that one break in the first team.

It's very difficult to speculate what may happen, and a counter argument could quite easily point out that this may be his one chance for a move.



He might dip in form next season, fall off the radar, and it may well be advisable for him to strike while the iron is hot.

And best of luck to him - I know most Fulham fan will echo my sentiment.

But right now I can think of worse places to be than at your boyhood club, where you are breaking into the first team under a responsible manager moving mountains to get his side back into the Premier League. I really can.


http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/fulhams-16-year-old-sensation-10033931

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A Cottagers Contemplation - Is Tom Cairney the best midfielder in the Championship?
Is Fulham's best player a realistic contender for the best player in the league?


Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

Fulham's Tom Cairney has always had the potential to win games, but this season the Scotsman's influence has helped in The Cottagers rise through the ranks of the Championship table to within one point of the Play-offs.

The mercurial midfielder has already surpassed his goal tally for the previous season, now scoring nine goals this campaign. The club's vice captain, who is currently captaining the side during Scott Parker's limited playing time, has equally contributed to the team by supplying nine assists for his teammates.

The Fulham midfielder has so far notched an impressive four Man of the Match performances for the club this season, as well as picking up the EFL Player of the Year at the 2017 London Football awards.

In a Fulham side that has been focused on analytics, Cairney's statistics make for good reading, Cairney has managed to find the net every ten shots he's taken, which in turn for an attacking midfielder is an impressive return.


Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images

Slavisa Jokanovic has implemented an attractive, yet effective possession style of play upon the club, seeing Cairney register an outstanding 92.5% pass success rate.

Jokanovic's new look side has brought Cairney in from the the wide right midfield position, into a more pivotal central role. The Scotsman has flourished since then, scoring 6 of his goals and achieving 8 assists in 19 games played there.

His performances have earned the 25-year-old his first call up for the Scottish national side for the up and coming friendlies.

Undoubtedly the first name on Slavisa Jokanovic's team sheet, will Cairney make the EFL Team of the Season?

*Statistics correct up until 03/13/17


http://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2017/3/16/14920806/a-cottagers-contemplation-fulham-tom-cairney-best-midfielder-championship

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Seven goals, seven assists: Did Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers make mistake letting midfielder leave last summer?

Stefan Johansen is proving Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers wrong with his form in the Championship with Fulham.

Within a couple of months of Brendan Rodgers' arrival at Celtic last summer, Stefan Johansen was given the chance to leave Parkhead for Fulham after rejecting a new deal with the Hoops (via ITV).

And while the deal probably seemed to make a lot of sense at the time - the midfielder was entering the final year of his contract - the 26-year-old's form in the Championship perhaps suggests that Rodgers was too hasty to give Johansen's move to Fulham the green light.

The midfielder has been sensational for the Cottagers this season, having contributed seven goals and seven assists for Slavisa Jokanovic's side to help them go into the final weeks of the campaign with an excellent chance of securing a play-off spot.

So was it a mistake to let him leave?

While Celtic pair Stuart Armstrong and Scott Brown have been impressive this term, having a Johansen in the form that he is currently in amongst the squad would undoubtedly be a major plus for the Bhoys, especially if he had been playing so well while they were in the Champions League.

Some will suggest that Celtic were backed into a corner given his contract situation, but it would have surely been extremely difficult for the Norway international to turn down fresh terms if he had been a part of the current Hoops team that seem to be developing rapidly under Rodgers.

Rodgers has not made many mistakes in his time with the Hoops, but perhaps his apparent decision not to fight harder to keep Johansen at the club has proved to be a bad call based on what he has done at Fulham.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/15/seven-goals-seven-assists-did-celtic-boss-brendan-rodgers-make-m/