Friday Fulham Stuff (14/04/17)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Results

Thursday
Wigan	3 - 2	Barnsley

[WhiteJC]

 
And the Webber revolution's off to a flier – three out and more gaps to fill. Meanwhile the Cottagers await

Fulham have cropped up just a little too often in the recent history of our football club.

The 21st century has been littered with disasters that have occurred when Canary and Cottager collide, the most obvious and painful being the 6-0 that twelve years on is still difficult to talk about.

In truth the large-scale catastrophes have been confined to that tranquil setting by the Thames but that's not to say Carrow Road has been a bundle of laughs when Fulham have been visitors.

Only once (once!) in 21 years have we managed to beat them and that was an almost forgotten game at the very back end of the 2015 play-off surge when most were preoccupied with who our play-off semi-final opponents were going to be rather than a quietly impressive 4-2 win.

In addition to the 6-0 there was of course the 5-0 early on in the Chris Hughton era – another stellar afternoon for the travelling hoards – and who can forget the 1-0 on the first day of the Neil Adams epoch, most notable for Ricky van Wolfswinkel's infamous 'ghost' pass.

They're just the low-lights of course and in the main the clashes of yellow and white have, for us, produced the usual litany of missed chances, rotten defending, wayward passing and listlessness; things that tend to go hand in hand with games against bogey teams.

And then of course there is Craven Cottage on the evening of October 18, 2016. Two goals up at half-time courtesy of two Graham Dorrans penalties, it looked as if the Canaries had recaptured the knack of winning away from home – following on from a good away win at Wolves – and had consigned the 4-3 defeat at St James' Park to its rightful place.

What followed has alas found its way into the Canary annals for all the wrong reasons and was the first clear signal that all was not well in the corridors of Colney. Second-half goals from Stefan Johansen and, typically, Chris Martin turned the game on its head and from a position of strength City were grateful to hang on for a point. Seldom have two thrown away points felt so crushing.

At this point the away defeats at Birmingham and Newcastle – in similarly excruciating circumstances – became more than just blips on the way to an assault on the top two. Flaws in the way the Canaries performed outside the city walls were suddenly laid bare, never to be rectified.

All of which makes the Cottagers own charge for the sixth play-off place, while we tread water in mid-table, sufficient to stick in the craw.

But I'm not about to go down the 'it should have been us route' because there's no 'should' about it. We haven't been good enough away from Carrow Road and across the whole piece, regardless of experience, CV and size of wage packet, our form has 'mid-table' written all over it.

Quite what tomorrow afternoon will bring is anyone's guess but, unlike last Saturday, there is at least an element of jeopardy involved – even if it's not ours. Fulham have Sheffield Wednesday in their sights and the whiff of play-off in their nostrils and so will be desperate to depart with something. And that in itself adds an edge that was missing against Reading.

City's season has turned to mush. In the true tradition of sport the least they can now do is their best to scupper it for others and, given the unquestionably impressive home form, Fulham will be well aware that a yellow and green banana skin awaits.

What they have tucked up their sleeve however is some away form that puts the Canaries to shame. In 20 away games half of them have have yielded three points for the Cottagers and only five have been lost; compare this to City's four wins and twelve defeats.

And while on the road we ship goals at rate of two per game, which bears no resemblance to Fulham's average of only just over one a game.

Whether any of this will assist Fulham as they enter the pressure-zone of chasing sixth will only be revealed at 3pm tomorow but for us, if nothing else, it'll be intriguing to see if the the Webber/Irvine effect (if there is such a thing) can have a significant impact for the second time in the space of six days.

**********************************************************************************

Meanwhile the Webber revolution continues apace with reports that Messrs Darnborough, Martin and Spearing are soon to be no longer of this parish.

In a move that has been met with almost universal approval – I've yet to stumble across anyone who can see anything but good emerging from a complete clear-out of the scouting/recruitment team – it appears a case of out with the old and, eventually, in with the new as Stuart Webber lays down an early maker.

The Friday interview round done by Webber was refreshing in its honesty and clarity, and it didn't require any reading between the lines to see how well he understood this club's inability to successfully recruit players of a suitable quality and mentality. Therefore it should come as no surprise that three said gents are to be shown red.

What did come as something of a shock is just how quickly the axe has fallen. Very un-Norwich City like.

But as we enter a new era perhaps this is how things are going to be. Not since the Lambert years (Quote: "The most impatient man I've ever met") have we been in anything approaching a hurry but, by the sound of it, Mr Webber, from the seat of sporting director, is of a similar ilk.

That Ricky Martin's seemingly inexorable rise to the very top looks to have been halted will be celebrated by some, not least because precisely what he has been bringing to the party has never been made clear, but equally it tells us that the talk of sweeping changes is more than just words.

Words are indeed cheap but when they're backed up by decisive actions folk tend to sit up and take notice.

It also sends out an unequivocal signal to those swilling around the current set-up – players, coaches, support staff etc – who are considered unfit for purpose that the door is only a chat and a piece of paper away.

So the early signs are that the cuts are going to be deep, possibly brutal, and made with no regard to years served. And that's a fine start.

Only time will tell if the new broom is able to fill the voids with individuals who are fit for purpose but one thing us for sure: the MFW editor is not going to be scratching around for content this summer.


http://norwichcity.myfootballwriter.com/2017/04/13/the-webber-revolution-is-off-to-a-flier-three-out-and-now-more-gaps-to-fill-meanwhile-the-cottagers-await/

[WhiteJC]

 
Liverpool transfer target Ryan Sessegnon 'not for sale' says Fulham boss
Slavisa Jokanovic says Reds target will stay at Craven Cottage this summer

Liverpool transfer target Ryan Sessegnon is NOT for sale this summer, according to his manager at Fulham.

The 16-year-old is on the Reds' radar after making an impressive start to his professional career.

Sessegnon has made 26 appearances for the Championship outfit this season, scoring six times and leading their charge for a play-off position.

Liverpool are weighing up a summer move for the England U19 international, who can play at left back or as a winger, but know that they will face stiff competition from a host of Premier League rivals for his signature.


Ryan Sessegnon - Fulham FC V Leeds FC at Craven Cottage, Fulham 070317. photographer credit Darren Pepe.

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic, though, says Sessegnon will be staying at Craven Cottage.

"Sessegnon will not be in the transfer market in the summer," he said.

Meanwhile reports emanating from London this week have indicated Sessegnon, who will turn 17 next month, is ready to sign a professional contract with Fulham, which would entitle the Cottagers to a hefty fee should he move on.


http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/liverpool-transfer-target-ryan-sessegnon-12888084

[WhiteJC]

 
Slavisa Jokanovic believes Fulham are ready for Norwich after analysing Reading thumping
The Fulham boss is confident his side can offer their best performance as they go to Carrow Road hoping to keep touch with the play-off places

Slavisa Jokanovic believes Fulham are ready for Norwich having watched and analysed their 7-1 thumping of play-off chasing Reading last Saturday.

The Canaries scored six first half goals as they cruised to victory on the same day Fulham dispatched Ipswich Town at Craven Cottage in a routine 3-1 victory.

The two sides now meet at Carrow Road in a Good Friday showdown, but Jokanovic is confident the Cottagers can get a result having analysed Norwich's thumping of Reading and the game before.

He said: "A fantastic game is behind them, they played very well, destroyed Reading.

"We've analysed what happened in this game and in the game they played before, and we are confident and believe we can offer our best performance and fight for the victory.

"I need brave people, I need people with enough experience for this moment, we need to read and interpret what happens during games a little bit better and be available to fight all together with the ball, or without the ball too.

"It's two important games in front of us, we're confident, we're in a good mental moment and we believe we can win the games that are in front of us.

"We've played 41 games, now it's a crucial moment of the competition and we need to find extra motivation and extra power and extra desire to try and find our best performance in these five games in front of us.

"Five games are left but really what we want is eight games still to play this season, and we're going to push hard for this target.

"I am confident. I am optimistic that we can improve ourselves and make some more steps. If you're seventh in the table it's natural to want to push a little bit stronger and finish the competition in the top-six."

On Saturday April 15 Fulham FC will open its doors between 11am and 2pm to invite prospective Season Ticket Holders the opportunity to see first-hand which seats remain available to buy in the ground.

This event is ideal for any supporters – individuals, families or groups of friends – to come down to Craven Cottage and find the location that best suits you!

Available seats will be identified with stickers to indicate that they are vacant, and fans can try out their new view before purchasing there and then from the Fulham Ticket Office.

Staff will be on hand to assist and talk through any queries, including all amenities located close by, over the course of the day.

To register your interest for this Saturday's FFC Seat Day below, click on the following link: http://www.fulhamfc.com/tickets/season-tickets/ffc-seat-day


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/slavisa-jokanovic-believes-fulham-ready-12888135

[WhiteJC]

 
Norwich City vs Fulham: Team news ahead of Good Friday trip to Carrow Road
Slavisa Jokanovic will have a near fully fit side to pick from as they make the trip to Carrow Road in the first of two Easter weekend fixtures

Fulham will be without Denis Odoi once again for their trip to Carrow Road to face Norwich City, while everyone else is fit and available.

The full-back has been missing since the Rotherham game and isn't fit to return to the squad as yet, but Slavisa Jokanovic will have otherwise have a fully fit squad to choose from.

Scott Parker returned to the squad in the 3-1 victory over Ipswich Town after suffering a back injury before the international break while Lucas Piazon also returned sooner than expected from his jaw injury in the 4-2 loss at Derby.

Meanwhile, the Fulham boss has confirmed it is likely that he will stick with Marcus Bettinelli in goal ahead of David Button after the former was dropped for last week's win.

He said: "Denis Odoi is still outside of the squad and other people are available for the Norwich game.

"I am working with 22 players and I used David Button 40 times this season and I decide to take decision which I believe is best for the team and this is part of the football.

"Bettinelli did very well in the last game and he will probably be goalie for this game."

On Saturday April 15 Fulham FC will open its doors between 11am and 2pm to invite prospective Season Ticket Holders the opportunity to see first-hand which seats remain available to buy in the ground.

This event is ideal for any supporters – individuals, families or groups of friends – to come down to Craven Cottage and find the location that best suits you.

Available seats will be identified with stickers to indicate that they are vacant, and fans can try out their new view before purchasing there and then from the Fulham Ticket Office.

Staff will be on hand to assist and talk through any queries, including all amenities located close by, over the course of the day.

To register your interest for this Saturday's FFC Seat Day below, click on the following link: http://www.fulhamfc.com/tickets/season-tickets/ffc-seat-day


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/norwich-city-vs-fulham-team-12888569

[WhiteJC]

 
Future of Tottenham target Ryan Sessegnon may rest on Fulham promotion bid

Tottenham target Ryan Sessegnon could still leave Fulham this summer, despite manager Slavisa Jokanovic insisting the teenage star was not for sale.

Sessegnon has been watched closely by most of England's top clubs, with Spurs, Manchester City and Liverpool showing strong interest in the 16-year-old, who is regarded as one of the best emerging talents in the country.

Jokanovic said on Wednesday that Sessegnon would not leave Craven Cottage this summer. The left-sided full-back is currently on a scholarship deal, with his first professional contract ready to be activated when he turns 17 on May 18.

Yet Standard Sport understands Sessegnon's future may be linked to which division Fulham compete in next season. With five games of the Championship season remaining, Fulham are two points adrift of a play-off spot.

Sessegnon has played an important role in that effort, scoring five goals in 22 league appearances, and six in 26 in all competitions.

As well as interest from English clubs, Sessegnon has also attracted the attention of German clubs Red Bull Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund, while Italian champions Juventus have also had him watched.

If Fulham are promoted, it is difficult to see Sessegnon leaving as he is likely to play regularly in the Premier League, which would not be guaranteed elsewhere. If they fail to go up, though, interested clubs will feel encouraged.

During Daniel Levy's time as chairman, Tottenham have paid close attention to the best young English players. They believe Sessegnon is in that category and manager Mauricio Pochettino has also developed a reputation for giving opportunities to and developing talent.


http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/future-of-tottenham-target-ryan-sessegnon-may-rest-on-fulham-promotion-bid-a3514526.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Goal Line Technology in Play-Offs

With Fulham hoping to finish in the top-six, thereby earning a Championship promotion play-off place, it appears that the play-offs will be subjected to a new ruling.

The EFL have announced that both the semi-final and final stages of the play-offs will see goal line technology used.

The system is already scheduled to be used in the Championship next season, a division we hope we`ll have climbed out of by then, but with the play-offs being of such high importance, the decision has been taken to use it in the play-offs.

Talking about the decision, the EFL Chief Executive, Shaun Harvey, is attributed as having remarked,

"The introduction of the technology is a significant step for Championship clubs and reflects the importance of every game in the division.

"Goal-line technology has proved successful elsewhere in our competitions and I`m confident it will have a similar positive impact in the Championship, week in, week out."

To us, here at Vital Fulham, it makes perfect sense. With the financial rewards relating to climbing out of the Championship and into the Premier League being so huge, to miss out due to a controversial was the ball over-the-line or not decision would be infuriating.

Our congratulations go to the EFL for taking this excellent decision.



Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=487809#ixzz4eChjyJ00

[WhiteJC]

 
We've met before: Bradley Johnson was the star of the show in rare Norwich City win over Fulham

Norwich City's horrendous away record against Fulham may still be standing strong but it was the Canaries who came out on top the last time the team's met at Carrow Road.

That was in May 2015 and was a dead rubber, with Norwich looking to maintain momentum ahead of their play-off campaign and the Cottagers safe from relegation.

Alex Neil's team didn't take their foot of the pedal though and romped to a 4-2 win to bring an end to a run of 17 matches without a win over the west London side.

Goals from Bradley Johnson, crowned player of the season ahead of kick-off, and Nathan Redmond put the hosts 2-0 ahead and Graham Dorrans made sure of third place in the final Championship standings with a third in the 81st minute.

That sparked some late entertainment though as Fulham striker Matt Smith volleyed a goal back, before Johnson fired in from his trademark 25-yard distance to take his goal tally for the season to 15.

The midfielder did find the net one last time though, heading past John Ruddy by mistake in the 90th minute for an own goal which made the final score 4-2 to City.

It looked like the Canaries were going to end their awful away record against the Cottagers earlier this season, leading 2-0 at Craven Cottage at half-time to sit top of the table, thanks to two penalties from Dorrans.

However, Stefan Johansen and City academy product Chris Martin hit back to draw the match and extend City's winless streak at Fulham to nine matches, stretching back over 30 years, to New Year's Day 1986.

Overall record (all competitions)

Norwich 12 wins – 13 draws – Fulham 22 wins


http://www.edp24.co.uk/sport/norwich-city/we-ve-met-before-bradley-johnson-was-the-star-of-the-show-in-rare-norwich-city-win-over-fulham-1-4975322

[WhiteJC]

 
Inside Carrow Road

Norwich City fan Jim Allen gives us an insight into the changes at Carrow Road this season ahead of our meeting with The Canaries on Friday.

Just over a month now since Alan Irvine took over from Alex Neil, how have the fans found the managerial change?

The departure of Alex Neil split fans, some were desperate for fresh blood, others thought he was due some time to fix things. Irvine quickly ruled himself out of the permanent job, which the board then confirmed, so as everyone knows he's just a temporary stop-gap. The fans appreciate this is a time of transition for the club and just want to enjoy the final few games.
Nine points off the play-offs, have Norwich fans given up their promotion hopes?

In one word, yes. Losing to both Aston Villa and Huddersfield in a week killed our play-off hopes. There are good sides battling it out for those last few places, and I believe they have more than Norwich going into the final stretch of the campaign but football being football I'm not completely ruling it out, you never know.

On the back of two goalless defeats to Aston Villa and Huddersfield, did anyone at Norwich see that 7-1 result coming?

It was fantastic to see the goals relentlessly flying in but I don't believe that there was a fan in the world that saw that coming. A team in third place, managed by one of the best defenders of all time, leaking goal after goal! But isn't that why we love football, for its sheer unpredictability. The last time we witnessed a 7-1 scoreline at Carrow Road, it was at the hands of Paul Lambert's Colchester side. Ten days later, he became Norwich head coach and lead us to some of our best seasons in recent history.

Are Fulham a team that the Norwich fans fear heading up to Carrow Road?

Whenever Fulham's name pops up, most City fans can't help but think back to 'that' game in 2005 (if you can't remember, Norwich needed a point to avoid relegation from the Premier League on the final day of the season, but instead came away on the back of a 6-0 humiliation). Fulham are playing well and scoring plenty So, for a team with a fragile defence, such as ours, we do fear a confident, free-flowing, attacking Fulham turning up.

Who do the Norwich fans see as Fulham's key danger men?

I was at the reverse fixture earlier in the season and it's the only time I've seen Fulham for a full 90 minutes, but Sone Aluko had a terrific game. He caused us problems all game, the Norwich defenders will certainly remember him! And I don't want to forget, once a City player, Chris Martin, who  is extremely clever and always a danger. Our centre-half's will be in for a battle with him I'm sure.

Which players should Fulham fans look out for on Friday? Who is in good form for Norwich?
Wes Hoolahan is back from injury! And he is a player that any fan, opposition or teammate should sit back and admire. He is Norfolk's version of Lionel Messi. Alex Pritchard is another to keep an eye out for, he always shows his ability when he gets on the pitch. Nelson Oliveira got himself on scoresheet against Reading and finally, I should mention left-back Mitchell Dijks who has been impressive since joining in January.

You blew a two goal lead at Craven Cottage in October to draw 2-2 with Fulham, how do you think Norwich have changed since then?

I don't think we have really. That defensive fragility has been the Achilles heel of our whole season. The Fulham away game wasn't the only lead that we've thrown away. And unfortunately it has been a trait that a lot of teams, especially away from home, look to exploit, knowing how fragile and void of confidence we have been defensively all year.

Where is a good place for away fans to get a drink pre-match?

I believe the main pub for away fans is the Compleat Angler which is opposite the train station with the train station being about a 10-15 minute walk from Carrow Road. (Don't forget that Friday being a bank holiday, train services from London will be affected).

What score prediction are you going for, and why?

I'm going to go for a high scoring affair, I think both teams have more than enough quality going forward. My money is on a 3-2 home win for the canaries. Could be a good one for the neutrals.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/april/13/inside-carrow-road

[WhiteJC]

 
Graham Dorrans not yet ready for Norwich return

Graham Dorrans will once again be missing when Norwich take on Fulham at Carrow Road in the Sky Bet Championship.

The Scottish midfielder has been absent since sustaining an ankle injury during the 2-0 defeat at Aston Villa on April 1.
Fellow midfielder Matt Jarvis, yet to feature for the first team this season due to injury, has suffered another setback in his recovery from a knee injury.
Interim boss Alan Irvine must decide whether to make any changes following City's 7-1 thrashing of Reading last Saturday.
Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic will again be without defender Denis Odoi.
Full-back Odoi has missed the last three games and is not fit enough to return to the squad, but Jokanovic will otherwise have a full squad to choose from.
Scott Parker returned to the squad for the game against Ipswich after suffering a back injury before the international break, while Lucas Piazon came off the bench in the same game after recovering from a jaw problem.
Jokanovic is set to keep faith with Marcus Bettinelli in goal after he replaced David Button for the win over Ipswich.


https://www.clubcall.com/fulham/graham-dorrans-not-yet-ready-for-norwich-return-1848309.html

[WhiteJC]

 
The Tony Gale Column

Saturday's result against Ipswich Town was the perfect tonic to our defeat in Derby earlier in the week. It was a potential banana skin so that made it a good win. I thought it was going to be one where we might need to be patient, so to be 2-0 up inside half an hour was a real weight off our shoulders. Mick McCarthy sets his teams up to be really difficult to break down so it's always handy when you get early goals.

Before we got our third goal in the second half, Marcus Bettinelli made two great saves which were absolutely crucial, because who knows what way the game could have gone if they'd got one back. It was a big moment for Marcus coming in. He's waited patiently for his chance, and I firmly believe that there's not a lot between the two goalkeepers. David Button has now got the job of trying to displace Marcus, who will want to make his current possession of the shirt count. And that's all good and healthy for the football club, having two good goalies fighting for a place.

Chris Martin also came into the side, and he impressed up top as we adopted a slightly more direct approach on occasion. Sometimes in a game you have got to go longer. I was a footballing defender but you have to know when to play and when not to play. Sometimes, especially when your centre-forward is having a particularly good game and is getting the better of the defenders, there's no shame in hitting it into your striker. It's okay to go more direct and get in and around your target man trying to pick up the second balls. You've got to be able to mix your game up because it's important to have some unpredictability in your locker.

We now go into a tricky looking Easter period, starting with a trip to Carrow Road on Good Friday. Norwich will be on cloud nine now after winning 7-1 at the weekend. You might have expected a result like that if they were playing bottom of the table, but against a decent team like Reading it was a blinding score. Norwich don't really have loads to play for at the moment as I think the Play-Offs are beyond them. In my opinion they've underachieved this year as they've got a really good squad and I was expecting them to be right up there.

Alan Irvine has been put in charge of Norwich until the end of the season, and he's someone I worked with at Blackburn. He was just starting off his coaching career, working under Kenny Dalglish and a former Fulham man in Ray Harford. You could see Alan was destined to become a coach, and it wouldn't surprise me if he kept the Norwich job beyond the end of the season. A few more results like that one at the weekend and they'll have to give it to him. Alan will be trying to pick the place up at the moment and finish well, so that they can hope to have a good start to next season.

After that we've got Aston Villa on Monday, a side who've turned a corner. They started off really well when Steve Bruce first came in. Then he bought a lot of his own players in, and the results funnily enough dipped in January. But now those new arrivals have settled down, results have started to pick up again. Watch them next season; I'd tip them as probably one of the favourites to go up.

Jonathan Kodjia cost them a fair whack in the summer, but he's proven to be an inspired signing with 20-odd goals this season, which is a great effort at a mid-table side. He went off injured in his last game but I understand it was just a dead leg so he should be back in time for our match.

It would be nice to have a top-six spot secured nice and early, but at the moment I would settle for it all relying on the last game. Sheffield Wednesday were dipping a little bit so that win over Newcastle will have picked up their morale. If we get to Hillsborough, last game of the season, with it still in our hands, I'd settle for that. Although on paper Wednesday have got the easier run-in, we have tended to play better against the stronger sides, so there's still plenty of hope.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/april/11/the-tony-gale-column

[WhiteJC]

 
Norwich vs. Fulham Preview: Three questions
If Fulham are going to finish sixth, they need to take some away points. All three of Fulhams away fixtures are against top 10 teams, but Norwich is the lowest ranked. A win here would be huge.


Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images

Jacob Sinkins is a Norwich City fan who graciously agreed to answer our questions. This is an intriguing match between two of the top offenses in the division. Games like this are often decided on who can play better defense. Normally that's not a good thing for Fulham, but Norwich has been worse on defense that the Cottagers this season.

Fulham could really use the points here as Sheffield get to host Cardiff City, and Fulham need to keep pace.

Cottagers Confidential: Have you guys given up hope of a top six finish? While it isn't mathematically impossible, I don't see a way it happens for you. What are your goals for the rest of the season?

Jacob Sinkins: I'd say the majority of fans have, but there are a few optimists left. Personally, I have to side with the former. I think that the managerial change was too little, too late, and the side have still performed too poorly under Alan Irvine to challenge for the playoffs. I think Norwich need to see out the rest of this season, maybe get some youngsters some experience, and prepare for a real title challenge next season.

CC: The only thing that really separates Fulham and Norwich is that Norwich has turned some draws into losses. You score just as much, but your defense is slightly more porous. Is the defensive issues the biggest thing that kept you out of the top six? What exactly is causing the defensive problems?

JS: It's not only the defence that can be blamed for Norwich's problems this season, the blame has to lie at the feet of the whole team. Furthermore, Alex Neil's inability to manage that team well has also hampered us, but since his departure things haven't really changed and it seems like we may have attributed him more blame than he deserved. I'd say the defensive problems are being caused by the fact that we spent long periods of our season not playing our best defender, Timm Klose. Furthermore, we don't have two good centre-backs, so whoever Klose is paired with is not up to standard and, in turn, makes him play worse.

CC: What kind of Jedi mind trick do Fulham need to use to beat you this weekend but have you ready to turn around and crush Leeds? Don't you owe it to us after that performance you put in against Wednesday?

JS: Fulham are notoriously our bogey team so many fans won't have high expectations. However, we have been incredibly strong at home this season, so you could be in for a shock. Leeds away, £60 for travel and ticket has a drab 3-0 loss written all over it for City. We've been abysmal on the road and it's an insult to our devoted away support. The worst thing about that performance against Wednesday is that it really wasn't too unexpected. We hadn't beaten any top eight side, and we were still under Alex Neil. Norwich fans will probably be willing Fulham into the playoffs, because if you go up, it means we can't lose at Craven Cottage for another season!

CC: Predicted lineup and scoreline?

JS: Predicted XI: Ruddy; Pinto, Klose, Martin, Dijks; Tettey, Howson; Ja. Murphy, Pritchard, Hoolahan; Oliveira

Predicted Score: 2-1 to Norwich, but it'll be close!


http://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2017/4/13/15286276/norwich-fulham-preview-english-championship-three-questions

[WhiteJC]

 
Make or break: These 2 Fulham players' futures are well and truly in limbo this summer

Fulham supporters will be embracing the fact that Premier League football could potentially be returning to Craven Cottage, if they can get through the whirlwind of the play-offs.

The club's form has seen them creep up on sixth-placed Sheffield Wednesday and they were briefly in the play-offs last week.

This run means Fulham have racked up 18 points from their last ten matches, which would usually get you spot in the top-six if it weren't for periods of lacklustre results in the earlier parts of the season.

Manager Slaviša Jokanović has heavily been linked with the West Ham United job but he has reiterated that a departure out of Craven Cottage is highly improbable, and he will definitely not allow that to distract his players.

Nor will the Serb allow contracts and careers disrupt the squad's latter matches, although it will be bringing some concern to certain members of the first-team.

Here are TWO Fulham footballers' futures which are well and truly in doubt....

Scott Parker
Having experienced top-flight and international footballer for the majority of his career, Scott Parker has been an influential player to Fulham's rise towards a top-half finish this season, something they haven't achieved since their relegation from the Premier League.

Scott Parker isn't getting any younger and his current contract at Craven Cottage is to expire in the summer, although he has become a firm favourite amongst the faithful in west London.

It isn't the supporters who have the final say on his future, however, and Slaviša Jokanović will need to judge whether the former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder has another promotion push in his locker.

Jesse Joronen
After arriving at Craven Cottage eighteen months ago, it's clear to see why Jesse Joronen was only given a short-term deal at the club following him signing on a permanent basis from League Two outfit Stevenage.

The 24 year-old is third-choice at Fulham behind Marcus Bettinelli and David Button, so it's really up to him whether he wants to continue to sit in the stands every week.

Joronen has quality in abundance without a doubt but his deal at the Cottagers is up this summer and Slaviša Jokanović may have the final say as to whether his time in the capital is extended or expires.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/make-or-break-these-2-fulham-players-futures-are-well-and-truly-in-limbo-this-summer/

[WhiteJC]

 
Norwich City v Fulham

FRI, 14 APR 2017CHAMPIONSHIP
Venue: Carrow Road

Marcus Bettinelli made his first league appearance of the season in the 3-1 win over Ipswich

BBC coverage
How to follow:
BBC Radio 5 live, BBC local radio; live text commentary on the BBC Sport website

Norwich caretaker manager Alan Irvine may name an unchanged side after the 7-1 defeat of Reading on Saturday.

Matt Jarvis, yet to make a first-team appearance this season, has suffered another setback in his recovery from a knee injury.

Fulham keeper Marcus Bettinelli will keep his place after coming in for David Button in the win over Ipswich.

Full-back Denis Odoi remains out, but midfielder Scott Parker could feature after recovering from a back injury.

Match facts
Norwich have won just one of their last 15 league meetings with Fulham (D4 L10), though that win did come in the most recent game at Carrow Road (4-2 in May 2015).
Fulham have scored in all but one of their last 16 league games against the Canaries.
Wes Hoolahan has created 42 chances in the Championship in 2017 - the only player with more is Tom Cairney (46).
Tom Cairney and Sone Aluko have created more chances for each other than any other Championship pair this season (45).
Norwich are unbeaten in nine league games at Carrow Road, winning six and drawing three.
Sone Aluko has been involved in eight goals in his last eight league games (three goals and five assists).


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39522682

[WhiteJC]

 
Sheffield Tickets

Tickets for Fulham's final league fixture of the 2016/17 campaign against Sheffield Wednesday will go on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members from 10am on Wednesday 19th April.

Follow Fulham Away as the Whites make the trip to Hillsborough on Sunday 7th May, kick-off 12pm, for what promises to be an exciting season climax.

Prices for the match are £39 for adults and from just £5 for juniors. The Club is also pleased to announce that subsidised travel will once again be in place to help Fulham fans wishing to attend, with coach prices just £5.

Tickets will go on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members from 10am on Wednesday 19th April, and be available to purchase online at fulhamfc.com/tickets, by phone on 0843 208 1234, or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

*Tickets are due to arrive with the Fulham Ticket Office on Wednesday morning, therefore personal callers to the Ticket Office may receive their tickets in the post.
Saturday Coach
Given the 12pm kick-off, the Club is exploring the possibility of running a coach to Sheffield on Saturday 6th April, for fans considering making the trip early.

Supporters are advised that they would be required to source their own overnight accommodation and be responsible to make their own way to the ground on the day of the game, before being picked up from Hillsborough following the final whistle - and returning to Craven Cottage.

To help us gauge interest in running a Saturday coach, please complete the form below. An update will then be made in due course.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/april/13/sheffield-tickets

[WhiteJC]

 
Norwich v Fulham: Predicting the Canaries

Norwich City host Fulham at Carrow Road on Friday as they look to build on their impressive win against Reading.

The Canaries ran riot last week as they beat Reading 7-1, scoring six goals in the first 41 minutes of the match.

Nelson Oliveira, Cameron Jerome and Russell Martin each scored a goal each, with Wes Hoolahan and Alex Pritchard both bagging braces.

Norwich are a considerable way off the play-off places heading into the final five matches of the campaign, but Fulham are right in the mix.

Fulham sit seventh in the Championship table and are just two points off sixth-placed Sheffield Wednesday coming into the clash.

Norwich are nine points away from Sheffield Wednesday, so all is not lost, but it would take quite a swing for the Canaries to find themselves in a play-off spot.

With the big summer changes set to occur this summer, it might be best for Norwich not to go up. They still have to fight until the end of the season, and here is how we think they will line-up tomorrow...



http://readnorwich.com/2017/04/13/norwich-v-fulham-predicting-the-canaries/

[WhiteJC]

 
Why Sessegnon should stay at Craven Cottage

16-year-old Ryan Sessegnon has shown great promise this season. He has provided pace and youthful exuberance at left-back, proving a more than able deputee to the equally hardworking Scott Malone.

Asked to play in front of the 26-year-old on one occasion, Sessegnon had the game of his life in front of 52k spectators at St James' Park last month. He scored twice and won a penalty with the score at 3-1, but was denied the chance for a hat-trick. That performance suggests he can rise to big occasions and it has attracted admiring glances from bigger clubs: Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City.

While a big move might seem exciting to the youngster and his family right now, due to the financial security, it would not be beneficial for his career. Sessegnon is still only a child: it may be unfair to inflict on him the pressure and attention that comes with earning more and representing one of the biggest clubs in England.

It is important that he continues to worm his way into Slavisa Jokanovic's first team plans at Fulham, whilst gaining confidence with the level he is currently playing at. As with most talented young players, patience is a virtue.


http://www.thefootballab.co.uk/2017/why-sessegnon-should-stay-at-craven-cottage/

[WhiteJC]

 
Pundits predict Norwich v Fulham: Play-offs at stake

Norwich City take on Fulham on Friday in the Championship, and HITC pundits give their predictions on the likely outcome.

Dan Coombs

Norwich City 3-2 Fulham

Norwich are one of the most unpredictable teams in the division, and Fulham are heading there at just the wrong time, after the Canaries hammered Reading 7-1 last week. A loss could put paid to Fulham's play-off hopes.

Danny Owen

Norwich City 3-2 Fulham

The Canaries could hardly be more confident after a 7-1 hammering of Reading last time out so expect goals in this clash between the Championship's joint second most prolific sides. However, if Norwich are on form, they could edge a Fulham side increasingly shaky at the back.

Alfie Potts-Harmer

Norwich City 3-1 Fulham

This promises to be an intriguing game at Carrow Road between Norwich and Fulham. The Canaries extraordinary win against Reading has to give them real confidence, and their home record has actually been very good this season. Fulham will still fancy their chances and can't afford to take their foot off the gas in the hunt for the play-off's, but I expect this to be an open game and one in which Norwich outscore the visitors.

Peter Bowler

Norwich City 2-2 Fulham

Both teams, on their day, are fantastic to watch and can really turn on the attacking flair when they need to. With a play-off place at stake, I expect both sides to go all out for the win, and could well cancel each other out in the process.

Che Thomas

Norwich City 3-3 Fulham

Hard to predict, if we get the Norwich side who smashed seven past Reading then it is hard to look past them, but Fulham are surely focused on chasing down that final playoff spot. Both sides are full of goals and leaky at the back, so I'm going for one heck of entertaining draw.

Aiden Cusick

Norwich City 2-2 Fulham

Despite having seemingly given up on the play-offs, Saturday's emphatic win has come as a warning to all teams still to visit Norwich this season. Fulham, as good as they've been, will struggle to take all three points back from Carrow Road, I feel.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/04/12/pundits-predict-norwich-v-fulham-play-offs-at-stake/

[WhiteJC]

 
QPR, Brentford or Fulham... The battle of west London, but just who is the biggest club?

The debate over 'Who is the biggest club in West London?' has swept the capital for many years, but now we are going to settle it!

Excluding the Premier League superpower of Chelsea, Fulham have ruled West-London for many years, establishing themselves as a top-flight regular, but since their relegation, the debate has re-opened.

All three clubs now play in the Championship and have endured contrasting fortunes this season. Fulham are challenging for the Play-Offs, Brentford are lingering in mid-table and QPR are fighting to pull themselves up the table.

QPR had their spell on top in West-London a couple of years ago, when they were playing top flight football and Fulham were in the Championship.

Brentford have yet to be top dog, but they came close two years ago, when they reached the Play-Offs and if they had have gone up, they would have been the only West-London club in the Premier League.

It's time to bring this debate to an end! Who runs the rule in West-London? Cast your vote below!


https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/qpr-brentford-or-fulham-the-battle-of-west-london-but-just-who-is-the-biggest-club/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham set for huge insurance for defender

Sky Bet Championship club Fulham will be handed a huge financial boost next month when highly-rated youngster Ryan Sessegnon signs his first professional deal with the club according to Get West London.

The 16-year-old Roehampton born full back has burst onto the scene at Craven Cottage this season after being handed his first team debut for the club in an EFL Cup tie against Leyton Orient back in early August.

Since making his senior debut, Sessegnon has gone on to get another 25 Fulham appearances under his belt while the full back has weighed in with a hugely impressive six goals. The player's exceptional form at such a young age has seen the scouts flock to Craven Cottage this season with Premier League clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur all thought to be wanting to sign the youngster.

Despite the higher division interest in the player, Sessegnon is set to provide his club with a huge boost by ignoring the speculation surrounding his future and by signing a new deal with the club next month. That professional contract will protect Fulham from losing the youngster in a cut-price deal or for a tribunal fee and should the club sell Sessegnon in the future, the transfer deal will be very much on their terms.

With Sessegnon having taken the Sky Bet Championship by storm, it is thought that the player could command a transfer fee of over £10 million in the future should the defender continue to develop at a rapid rate.


http://the72.co.uk/78915/fulham-set-huge-insurance-defender/