Tuesday Fulham Stuff (21/11/17)...

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Floyd Ayite backs Fulham to show the desire to get three points from Sheffield United

Fulham travel to Sheffield on the back of six games without a win but the Togo international is backing his side to pick up points

Floyd Ayite admits the side were frustrated to not pick up three points against Derby, but believes that if the side stick together they will start winning games.

The 28-year-old has scored just the once this season, coincidentally in Fulham's only home win of the season against Hull, but he believes that the side's team spirit is still good, despite six games without a win.

Oliver Norwood gave Slavisa Jokanovic's side the lead on Saturday evening, but they were pegged back by a Matej Vydra strike and now look forward to a trip to Bramall Lane and Sheffield United.

And ahead of that game, Ayite believes if the side show character and desire they will start to pick up the points and the wins.

He said: "We are frustrated, but it's like this, we don't have any time to keep our heads down - we have to show character and stay on this way for the next game

"During the break the team did well in the training and now I think we must stick together, work together and show another face -we have to stay on this course and if we do, we're going to get points in the next game.

"Our spirit is good, the manager picked out the things we did well, but like I said, we make one mistake and we paid heavily so we have to keep going and stay together and we're going to get points."



Sheffield United currently sit second in the division as they aim for back-to-back promotions, but the Togo international

"They're a tough team, they're at the top of the league and it will be a good game to show our character and show ambition.

"If we want to get our target we must win this kind of game.

"They're confident, but we're going to go there with ambition and desire and like always we'll go there to get points and we'll see."



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/floyd-ayite-backs-fulham-show-13924981

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Officials - Sheffield United v Fulham (21/11/17)

The Football League have now announced the Match Day officials that will take charge of the game between Sheffield United and Fulham this Tuesday.

Sheffield United host Fulham on Tuesday November 21 for the game at Bramall Lane and the match carries a 7.45pm kick off.

Referee: James Linington
Assistant Refs: Neil Davies and Nick Greenhalgh
Fourth Official: Anthony Backhouse

Match Day referee Linington has officiated 18 games in 2017/18, showing 60 yellow cards and five red cards.

He took in 35 games in 2016/17 with a return of 146 yellow cards and four red cards.

That year he showed eight yellow cards on three occasions.

He took in 26 matches in 2015-16 and in those games, across all competitions and football divisions, he handed out a total of 74 yellow cards and four red cards.

He was most card happy in the match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Middlesbrough on October 24 with seven yellow cards shown.

Linington is required to make the short trip over from his home on the Isle of Wight when appointed to EFL fixtures. He is a very experienced official having refereed in the EFL for 10 seasons. In 2010, he was named fourth official for the FA Trophy Final at Wembley, and returned to the same stadium two weeks later to referee the League Two Play-Off Final between Dagenham and Redbridge and Rotherham United.

Source - EFL.

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



Read more: http://www.sheffutd.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=512345#ixzz4z2rj5lzy

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Two Fulham players tie for your Man of the Match award for their Derby County performances

Two players couldn't be separated for their performances in your player ratings after the Derby draw with ratings of 7.3

Tom Cairney and Denis Odoi both tied as your Fulham Man of the Match based on your player ratings from the 1-1 draw with Derby .

The Fulham skipper came back into the starting XI after missing the trip to Wolves before the international break and looked fit as he completed 90 minutes against Gary Rowett's Rams.

Meanwhile, Odoi was shuffled out to left back after playing in the centre half position in that Wolves defeat, and showed his versatility with another pleasing performance.

Both scored a rating of 7.3 in your player ratings after the games for their performances in the draw, here's how the others rated:

Tom Cairney - 7.3

Denis Odoi - 7.3

Ryan Fredericks - 7.2

Oliver Norwood - 6.7

Luca de la Torre - 6.5

Tayo Edun - 6.4

Tim Ream - 6.3

David Button - 6.2

Tomas Kalas - 6.0

Floyd Ayite - 5.6

Aboubakar Kamara - 5.3

Ryan Sessegnon - 5.0

Rui Fonte - 4.3



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/two-fulham-players-tie-your-13925245

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Omogbehin: Take Experience

Fulham's Under-18s drew 2-2 to Leicester City on Saturday afternoon at Motspur Park. Although both teams finished with a point, it was a frustratingend for the Young Whites as the Foxes equalised with the last kick of the match.

"For me personally and from a coaching point of view, we are very happy with how we played," commented Head Coach Colin Omogbehin.

"I suppose the lads are very disappointed, they wanted to win and they were in a position to see the game out, but it didn't happen for us.

"We can take experience from the fact that it is always important to keep managing the game right up until the last moment. At 2-1, up you've got to try and retain your lead.

"I thought the boys were so unfortunate because throughout the game from start to finish they worked ever so hard.

"On chances created, we certainly created a lot more than them, we dominated possession and it was disappointing not to see the game through."

It was second versus third in the league, and the entertaining match on display at Motspur Park showcased how good the Premier League South is.

"The tempo of the game was very quick from start to finish," Omogbehin commented.

"Even though we created a lot of chances, the opening minutes were very tight, nobody was giving anybody anything and all of a sudden we started finding our rhythm.

"Leicester started hitting a lot of long balls, we dealt with that comfortably. There is always a threat on the counter because of the way we play by trying to open teams up and by committing bodies forward.

"If teams turn it over against us there is that space in behind. That wasn't really a problem for us today, if you look at the two goals that we conceded, the first one nobody was close.

"Luca Ashby-Hammond probably thought it was going wide so he didn't make an attempt to go for it, it's on the kid's weaker foot and it looked like it was going wide, ends up bottom corner.

"The last goal was last ditch stuff; it could have gone anywhere at it's fallen to their player in the box. He anticipated and reacted first.

"Again, we had so many chances, they had last second blocks, they've made saves and we've just missed the target at times. We did more than enough to win the game."

The Young Whites opened the scoring through a fantastic Tyrese Francois free-kick on the brink of half time, and after Leicester scored Sonny Hilton put Fulham ahead for the second time.

Fulham gave away a penalty in injury time, and Ashby-Hammond made the save before Leicester eventually found their equaliser in the dying moments.

"We scored a couple of great goals through Tyrese and Sonny. Luca pulled off a couple of great saves, the penalty he guessed right and he's got a touch to it that has made the difference.

"If he didn't get the touch, I think it goes in the back of the net so it was an important touch.

"There was an effort in the second half where the guy has come in on his right foot and bent it, the ball looked like it was going into the top corner and Luca turned that round the post.

"He's a keeper that is making those big saves. He has got that quality, but he offers us so much more like an outfield player when we are trying to play out.

"His passing is so accurate and the ball gets right where it needs to go to so that gives us an extra weapon for us. He is in good form and we are very pleased with how he is developing."




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/november/20/omogbehin-take-experience

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Slavisa Jokanovic admits Fulham's defence haven't improved and he must continue to find a solution

Fulham conceded the same amount of goals as relegated Wigan and the boss says he has to find a solution with the players he has

Slavisa Jokanovic admits Fulham haven't improved their defence from last season but insists he must keep going with the side he has to find a solution.

Tomas Kalas returned on loan over the summer, but the Whites boss wanted to add another centre back in before the season began, however the only one that was forthcoming was Marcelo Djalo, who has failed to make the grade so far the Cottage.

Last season, Fulham conceded the same amount of goals as Wigan, who were relegated with 57 goals against, but Jokanovic has said that he must continue to try and find a solution with the players he has.

He said: "This is true, we lost Scott Malone and we didn't find another option at centre back, I am with Kalas and Ream like last season.

"I will refresh your mind, last season we conceded same number of goals as Wigan who were relegated, at the end we are not improved from the season behind us and this is our realistic situation in this moment and I must keep going and working with this team and try to find better solution.

"In general, it's natural position for Odoi who played very well to play in the right side or in the position of centre back we use him and he made a great job tonight but I try use what I believe is the best option to be closer to win the game and this is closer to tonight.

"I will try choose for next game too and try pick what I believe is best for the team."



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/slavisa-jokanovic-admits-fulhams-defence-13925692

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£450k-rated star in, midfielder out: The Sheffield United XI Wilder should select to face Fulham tomorrow night

Sheffield United returned to Championship action in fine form on Friday night as they beat Burton Albion 3-1 away from home.

The Blades went top courtesy of that result and, though they are now back in second after Wolves beat Reading, they will be confident of staying in and around the promotion spots.

For sure, then, their next test comes against a Fulham side that has looked a shadow of the one from last season and should be possible to beat for the men from Bramall Lane.

It'll be tough, though, as most Championship games are and the fact that Paul Coutts is now going to be out for the season certainly hasn't helped matters.

Coutts has been an important factor in the Blades' season so far and the men in red and white will be determined to ensure that they keep their form up for him.

Who comes in, though, is the question Chris Wilder must answer ahead of the Fulham game and we think it might be £450k-rated John Lundstram's chance to shine.

He comes into the midfield for the game with the Lilywhites, then, and will look to stake his claim to start regularly in Coutts' absence.

Meanwhile, George Baldock should come back into the team after getting the all-clear for the Burton game from his hamstring injury but not actually starting.

It's still a strong side, then, and we think it'll look like this v Fulham:

https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/450k-rated-star-in-midfielder-out-the-sheffield-united-xi-wilder-should-select-to-face-fulham-tomorrow-night/

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Young Foxes Rescue A Point At Fulham

A dramatic 95th minute equaliser from Luke Thomas rescued a 2-2 draw for Leicester City's Academy side at Fulham in the Premier League U18 South Division on Saturday.

Leicester City's Under-18s drew 2-2 at Fulham on Saturday afternoon
- Luke Thomas scored an equaliser in added time at the end of the second half
- The young Foxes were twice behind at Motspur Park
- City next welcome Swansea City to Belvoir Drive on Saturday 25 November

The young Foxes were twice behind at Motspur Park after strikes from Tyrese Francois and Sonny Hilton, in the 46th and 71st minutes, but Khanya Leshabela's effort, in the 48th minute, and a late intervention from Thomas sealed another point for the visitors.

Trevor Peake's side remain second in the South Division, eight points adrift of leaders Chelsea, with just two defeats from their opening nine league matches.

City have also recently discovered their opponents for the FA Youth Cup Third Round, where they will travel to Fratton Park to face Portsmouth on Tuesday 5 December (7pm kick-off).

That fixture falls on the same evening as the Development Squad's Checkatrade Trophy trip to Scunthorpe United (7:45pm kick-off).

Next up, Leicester's youngsters welcome Swansea City to Belvoir Drive on Saturday 25 November (12pm kick-off) before a Premier League Cup tie at home against Fulham.

City: Davies, Thomas, Elewa-Ikpakwu, Ughelumba, Husek, Williams (Fielding 72), Gill, Leshabela, McLeod, Edwards-John (Meite 82), Shade.

Subs not used: Stolarczyk, Gyamfi, Tavares.




https://www.lcfc.com/news/516664/young-foxes-rescue-a-point-at-fulham

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Sheffield United vs Fulham: Does Tayo Edun keep his place in your starting XI?

After a number of young players being selected for the 18 on Saturday, who makes your XI for the trip to Sheffield United?

Fulham travel to Bramall Lane to take on Sheffield United who are surprising many this season and find themselves in second place in the Championship.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side make the journey on the back of six games without a win - one that stretches all the way back to September and the 2-1 win over QPR.

The boss threw in a few left-field selections in the 1-1 draw with Derby, with Tayo Edun making his first league start for the Whites, while Mattias Kait, Steven Sessegnon and Luca de la Torre all found themselves on the bench.

It seemed to work, with both Edun and de la Torre enjoying fine performances, but who would make your starting XI for Tuesday night's game?

As always, use our team selector below to pick your XI, then don't forget to share it on social media to see who your friends and fellow fans have picked.



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sheffield-united-vs-fulham-tayo-13925123

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Sheffield Utd v Fulham
TUE 21 Nov 2017 Championship
Venue: Bramall Lane

Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp scored twice in Friday's 3-1 win over Burton, taking his tally to eight goals for the season

Sheffield United midfielder Paul Coutts will miss the rest of the season with a broken leg.

George Baldock (hamstring) could return but defender Kieron Freeman (knee) and striker Ched Evans (ankle) are out.

Fulham's Kevin McDonald is available to return from suspension while fellow midfielder Stefan Johansen could be back after illness.

Forward Neeskens Kebano (hip) will be assessed and Sheyi Ojo is close to returning from a dislocated shoulder.

On-loan Chelsea forward Lucas Piazon remains sidelined while he works his way back from a broken leg.

Match facts
    Sheffield United are unbeaten in their last seven home matches against Fulham in all competitions (W5 D2).
    The Whites haven't won at Bramall Lane since April 1985 - Leroy Rosenior scored the only goal in a 1-0 win in a second-tier match.
    Fulham won all three of their league matches in south Yorkshire last season, beating Barnsley, Rotherham and Sheffield Wednesday.
    Leon Clarke has been directly involved in 11 of Sheffield United's 27 league goals this season (9 goals, 2 assists) - only Wolves forward Leo Bonatini has registered more goal involvements (14- 10 goals, 4 assists).
    Fulham keeper David Button has the highest passing accuracy of all goalkeepers in the Championship to have played a minimum of 10 matches this season (69.25%).



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41978135

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Ladies Cup: Fulham 0-1 QPR

Fulham FC Foundation Ladies lost 1-0 to QPR Ladies on Sunday afternoon in a local derby. Fulham currently occupy 7th position in the London and South East Regional Women's league with their opponents on Sunday 19th November being 2 leagues above in the FA Womens' Premier South division.

It was the quarter-final of the Capital Women's Senior Cup, and the two sides were only separated in the end by a Dominika Netschova second half strike.

QPR put pressure on the Fulham goal early, getting three shots away in the opening 10 minutes, with Paige Hersey forced to make a save from a one on one. 

The Whites quickly made their own impression on the match, four minutes later they got two shots away in quick succession after a through-ball from Chelcee Grimes opened up the Hoops' defence.

Chances fell to both sides for the opening half an hour, and in the 33rd minute Hersey was called into action to keep the score level, and the first half finished goalless.

The second half both sides were getting forward, Fulham were floating balls into the box but were unable to pick out a white shirt.

QPR were the next to go closest to breaking the deadlock in the 58th minute with Ruth Goode clearing off the line.

The pressure continued and Fulham were saved by the offside flag after Adeyemo headed into the top left for the visitors.

It was in the next minute that QPR got the lead they had been pressing for, Fulham tried to clear the ball from a corner, but the ball only got as far as Netschova who poked her effort into the back of the net, for what would be the winner.

Fulham pressed hard for the equaliser, in the 71st minute Jacinta Coleman shot from distance to trouble Kasirye.

10 minutes later Alice Curr hit the underside of the crossbar but QPR were able to hold onto their lead.

In the dying minutes the Whites won a free-kick, and Abigail Ingram had a dipping shot on target, however Kasirye tipped it over the bar to ensure that match finished as a QPR victory.



Fulham FC Ladies Starting XI:

Hersey, Goode, McCreary, Southgate, Walker, Sillah, Coleman, Gooden, Scott-Coleman, Grimes, Curr.

Subs: Ingram, Johannesson, Bains, Crow.



QPR Ladies Starting XI:

Kasirye, Hennessey, Petit, Lynch, Peacock, Chimbima, Knell, Adeyemo, Ogle, Maggs, Netschova.

Subs: Roberts, Odeniyi.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/november/20/ladies-cup-fulham-0-1-qpr

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Sky Sports pundit predicts the result between Sheffield United and Fulham tomorrow

Sheffield United welcome Fulham to Bramall Lane on Tuesday evening, knowing that a win will see them overtake Wolves at the top of the table, with Nuno Santo's men set to play on Wednesday evening.

The Blades have been in fine form following their promotion to the second tier, and Chris Wilder's men are very much on course to challenge for a spot in the Premier League this season.

The club eased to a 3-1 win at Burton Albion on Friday, but did not come through the encounter unscathed, with influential midfielder Paul Coutts suffering a season-ending leg break following a challenge at the Pirelli Stadium.

The visitors have suffered contrasting fortunes this season, and lie deep in the bottom half following a less than impressive start to the new campaign.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side have been rocked by injuries of their own, but with the likes of Tom Cairney returning to action in recent weeks, a resurgence in form appears close.

Sky Sports pundit David Prutton hands the win to the Blades in his weekly prediction column, believing that the hosts will ease to a 2-0 victory.

The Verdict
I think the match could be closer than Prutton expects.

Fulham are showing signs of finding form, and the Blades could be affected by the injury to Coutts.

Bramall Lane has become something of a fortress this season, and Fulham will struggle to take three points, but I do think they will put up a fight.

Saying that, the Blades will stay take the points.

Sheffield United 2-1 Fulham




https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/sky-sports-pundit-predicts-the-result-between-sheffield-united-and-fulham-tomorrow/

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Why there is still hope on the horizon for lowly Fulham in their Sky Bet Championship campaign

Stuart Dearsley ponders what the future holds for Fulham as the Cottagers find themselves in the bottom half of the Sky Bet Championship coming into the festive period.

After the good end to last season and a fantastic run to the play offs which ultimately ended in defeat to Reading, Fulham fans went into the summer break hopeful that with a few key additions to an already good squad, they would bypass the drama of the play offs and be aiming for the automatic spots. Unfortunately the season has been completely the opposite with the off the field battles between the now departed Board Member Craig Kline (whose infamous moneyball policy led to disagreements between the board and the boss ), leaving the squad short in key areas.

The departure of winger/forward Sone Aluko to Reading for £7.5 million after only one season met a mixed response from fans with many viewing it as the freeing up of resources to spend on a 20 goal a season striker whilst others saw it as the loss of one of the teams most creative sources. Aluko's problem had always been that he was never able to convert the plethora of chances he had and winger wise, Fulham were adequately covered with Kebano, Ayite, and Premier League loanees Piazon and Ojo, the latter two both picking up serious injuries that have kept them out for long periods this season. The subsequent arrival of two further wide men, highly rated Graham on loan from Wolves (who Jokanovic has ignored to date implying he was not his signing) and Yohan Mollo who joined on a free from Russian side Zenit who most Fulham fans would say deserves his chance based on glimpses to date, shows that Aluko should not have been that great a loss but that has not been the case. Again little has been seen of Mollo with fitness being cited as the reason.

Last years striking loanee Chris Martin has gone back to Derby and Fulham spent £8 million on Fonte from Braga and £5 million on Kamara from Amiens with the aim of them firing Fulham to promotion and with three goals between them to date and one home victory this season. Fulham's league position in the bottom half of the championship says it all. The 40 plus goals barely 18 months ago from Ross McCormack and Moussa Dembele now at Melbourne City and Celtic respectively, are a distant memory.

Defensively the returning Kalas from Chelsea is yet to hit the heights of last season whilst American Ream continues to be a constant at the heart of the defence. Going forward Fulham look good at times with Cairney, MacDonald and Johansen on paper being one of the best in the division. Injuries to key man Cairney and with a laboured approach to possession at times, it has been clear that it is the final third where Fulham's problems come to the fore. With Slavisa now looking like he has more control in the transfer market, expect to see a busy January with a few going out and a striking arrival being a priority. The jury is still out on the keeping position although Button has performed well so far this season so expect Jokanovic to persist with him until the end of the season.

It is not all doom and gloom though as the Fulham academy is producing some excellent talent such as the highly rated Ryan Sessegnon who has already been the subject of Premier League interest and is a first team regular. A number of others have also featured for the first team over the last season or so and more about this next time.




http://www.xtheline.co.uk/still-hope-horizon-lowly-fulham-sky-bet-championship-campaign/

[WhiteJC]

 
Sheffield United v Fulham preview

Sheffield United will be without Paul Coutts for the visit of Fulham and for the rest of the season due to a broken leg.

Blades boss Chris Wilder has confirmed Coutts does not require surgery after fracturing his tibia in Saturday's win at Burton, but the midfielder will play no further part in the Blades' promotion challenge. Striker Leon Clarke is expected to shake off a knock sustained at the weekend, while defender George Baldock (hamstring) will be assessed after missing the last two matches.

Goalkeeper Jamal Blackman was back in action at Burton after a back injury, but striker Ched Evans (ankle) and defender Kieron Freeman (knee) are still out.

Fulham have Kevin McDonald available following suspension. They are also hopeful Stefan Johansen and Neeskens Kebano will be fit to return.

Johansen has been missing through illness, while Kebano had a hip injury. Tayo Edun impressed on his league debut in their absences, and is pushing to retain his place.

Opta stats
Sheffield United are unbeaten in their last seven home matches against Fulham in all competitions (W5 D2).

The Cottagers haven't won at Bramall Lane since April 1985 - Leroy Rosenior scored the only goal in a 1-0 win in a second-tier match.

Fulham won all three of their league matches in south Yorkshire last season, beating Barnsley, Rotherham and Sheffield Wednesday.

Leon Clarke has been directly involved in 11 of Sheffield United's 27 league goals this season (9 goals, 2 assists) - only Wolves forward Leo Bonatini has registered more goal involvements (14- 10 goals, 4 assists).

Fulham keeper David Button has the highest passing accuracy of all goalkeepers in the Championship to have played a minimum of 10 matches this season (69.25%).

Prutton's prediction
Sheffield United just keep on going don't they. Every time you think they might slip up they just get another result and they're turning into real contenders this season.

Fulham, meanwhile, just can't get any kind of run of form going, and they look bereft of confidence at the moment. I can't see much past a home win here.

Prutton predicts: 2-0 (9/1 with Sky Bet)




http://www.skysports.com/football/sheff-utd-vs-fulham/preview/374833

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Should Nottingham Forest join Sunderland in race for Danny Ward?

Nottingham Forest are reportedly keen on strengthening their goalkeeper options, so perhaps a Sunderland target should be on their radar.

According to a recent report from The Sun on Sunday (print edition; 19th November 2017; page 65), Mark Warburton is looking to bolster his goalkeeper options at Nottingham Forest by targeting a move for Fulham's Marcus Bettinelli during the January transfer window, having failed to sign him in the summer due to his £5 million price-tag.

Bettinelli has arguably endured a mixed time with the Cottagers and has only made one appearance all season this term having seemingly fallen out of favour at Craven Cottage under Slavisa Jovanovic.

The 25-year-old appears to have the potential to be a very decent goalkeeper, but perhaps Warburton should consider other targets as he looks to strengthen his options between the sticks.

According to the Sunderland Echo, new Sunderland boss Chris Coleman wants to bring Danny Ward in from Liverpool on loan as he looks to drag the Black Cats out of the relegation zone in the Championship.

Coleman knows Ward from his time as Wales boss, but perhaps Warburton should consider joining Sunderland in the race to sign the 24-year-old.

Ward may be tempted to join the Black Cats due to Coleman's presence at the Stadium of Light - if he is indeed temporarily allowed to leave Liverpool in January - but it would hardly be a surprise if a move to the City Ground also appealed to him.

Warburton's men are just two points off the play-off places currently despite struggling for consistency all season - they have won eight and lost nine of their opening 17 games.

If they can find some consistency before January, they should be in an even better position, and it will be even harder for Ward to turn down a move if Forest decided to join the race for his signature. And given that he helped Huddersfield clinch promotion last season, it would certainly be a coup for Forest to bring the Welshman in, so perhaps they should add the stopper to their list of targets.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/11/20/should-nottingham-forest-join-sunderland-in-race-for-danny-ward/

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U23s Report: Saints 3-4 Fulham

Six goals were shared in a wide open first half between Southampton Under-23s and their Fulham counterparts, but it was a solitary second-half strike that decided the game in favour of the visitors at Staplewood.

Saints found themselves 2-0 and 3-1 down, but Nathan Tella pulled one back and was involved in both of the other goals – two poacher's efforts from Marcus Barnes.

However, Fulham had the final say to earn three points in Premier League 2, as the impressive Jordan Graham set up Mikolaj Kwietniewski for the winner with 13 minutes left.

Radhi Jaïdi could call upon an experienced core, with Alex McCarthy behind a back four of Jérémy Pied, Jan Bednarek, Jack Stephens and Matt Targett.

James Ward-Prowse captained the side, while Pierre-Emile Højbjerg and Sam McQueen were also in from the start.

But Saints would have to recover from a difficult opening, as Graham pounced to score on the rebound after McCarthy made a brilliant instinctive save with his foot from a Fulham corner.

Saints were enjoying the majority of the play, but would find themselves with a steeper uphill climb, as Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson hung up a cross to the far post for towering centre-forward Elijah Adebayo to nod in from close range.

Things would go from bad to worse when Jaïdi lost Targett to injury in the 20th minute, though the left-back did leave the pitch on his feet suggesting it may have just been a precaution.

Saints' luck was about to change, as they halved the deficit and took charge of the game.

After Jake Hesketh was denied by Norman, the midfielder found the right weight of pass to find Tella in the box, who slotted home.

Suddenly it was wave after wave of Saints attack, and Barnes might have equalised when he latched on to McQueen's ball over the top and got there before the stranded Norman, only to steer the chance wide.

Fulham had been penned in, but when they escaped into the Saints half they made it count, as Graham's square pass was dispatched by Adebayo, albeit in fortuitous fashion as his miss-hit shot deceived McCarthy and looped into the corner of the net.

Back came Southampton in an incredibly open game, and within eight minutes the hosts were level courtesy of Barnes' brace.

The lively Tella was involved in both; first crossing from the right to substitute Jonathan Afolabi, whose cutback was tapped in by Barnes, before the striker latched on to Tella's threaded pass to prod his second past Norman.

Unsurprisingly, there was a more controlled feel about the second half after a manic first 45.

Fulham threatened to retake the lead through Steven Sessegnon – twin brother of highly-rated first teamer Ryan – who shot into the sidenetting, before Thorsteinsson overran the ball with only McCarthy to beat.

Saints' best moment came courtesy of a sharp turn from Barnes, who made space to shoot from 25 yards and stung the gloves of Norman.

Fulham's most dangerous player had been the talented Graham, who thought he'd scored the goal of the game 18 minutes from time.

Receiving the ball wide on the left, he stepped inside and curled a stunning strike into the top corner that dipped just underneath the crossbar.

But Graham's luck was out, as the offside flag intervened. He received the ball well onside, but must have strayed before the crossfield ball to him was played.

The on-loan Wolves man would not be denied, as his enticing cross was tucked in by Kwietniewski 13 minutes from time.




https://southamptonfc.com/news/2017-11-20/report-premier-league-2-u23s-saints-fulham

[WhiteJC]

 
Sheffield United vs. Fulham

The Blades were victorious at the Pirelli Stadium, winning 3-1, but despite claiming all three points which cannoned United to the top of the league - it left a severely bitter feeling having lost vice-captain Paul Coutts to injury. Billy Sharp was twice on target, once from the spot for the Blades first penalty of the campaign. Leon Clarke (pictured), who has been masterful in recent weeks, sounded off a win with United's third goal.

Wolves victory at Reading on Saturday saw the Molineux side leapfrog the Blades back into pole position by a fine two point margin, but with the Midlands side not in action until Wednesday night at home to Leeds, it gives the Blades a good opportunity to get back on top - latterly!

It was vital that United got back to winning ways following the International break which can sometimes put players out of rhythm. But Coutts 50/50 challenge with Marvin Sordell late in the first half saw the midfielder come out worse. He fractured his tibia in the resulting challenge and whilst he will not require surgery - will be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

United have a good record at home to Fulham. Although the two sides haven't met in the league since their Premier League encounter during 2006-07 which United won 2-0. In fact, the Cottages haven't won at the Lane since April 1985. If United are to continue their fine run and re-claim top spot again they will have to do so without an injury list which also includes George Baldock (hamstring) and striker Ched Evans (ankle).

John Lundstram is the likely man to take up the charge in place of Coutts, and following his return from injury, defender Richard Stearman may face his former club.

Fulham, who started the season off well as found themselves slumped to 17th in the table. They recorded a 1-1 draw in their last outing at home to Derby County in Saturday's late kick-off. They were without former Sheffield United and Wolves midfielder Kevin McDonald through suspension, after he picked up five yellow cards for the season. He will be made available again for selection after missing just one match.

Meanwhile forward Neeskens Kebano (hip) will be assessed and Sheyi Ojo (dislocated shoulder) is close to returning from injury. Forward Lucas Piazon (on loan from Chelsea) remains sidelined while he recovers from a broken leg.



http://www.footymad.com/sheffield-united/roll/ed14/sheffield_united_vs_fulham_912986/index.shtml

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Sheffield United: 'We need your support more than ever now' Chris Wilder tells fans ahead of Fulham test

Chris Wilder last night told Sheffield United supporters they can help soften the blow of losing Paul Coutts to injury by giving their unequivocal backing to the midfielder's replacement.

John Lundstram, Samir Carruthers and Chris Basham are the leading contenders to deputise for Coutts against Fulham this evening, after the 29-year-old was ruled-out for the rest of the season with a broken leg.

Citing the "connection" between United fans and the first team squad as a key factor behind his team's climb to second in the Championship table, Wilder said: "This should be, for me, one of the best atmospheres of the season in terms of the supporters pushing to team on through this period. The backing whether it's Lunny, whether's it's Bash or whether it's Sammy who plays in there, they need to feel to warmth of the supporters. It's big that they get that backing and that freedom to go and play. "I don't ask our supporters for much because they've been brilliant, different class in fact, ever since I came here. But I am asking them for something now." Coutts, who fractured a tibia during Friday's victory over Burton Albion, has been released from hospital after doctors advised he did not require surgery. Lundstram, a summer signing from Oxford, replaced the Scot at the Pirelli Stadium while Carruthers, previously of MK Dons, is also hoping for a start when Slaviša Jokanović's side visit Bramall Lane. "They are good players," Wilder said. "They are relatively new to Championship football. It's not an expensively assembled squad, we don't have a £7m player ready to come in.

"These are players we have plucked out because we think they've got something. It's not comparisons we need. Just the recognition that these are genuine, decent players we have bought to improve and be a part of the future. It might take whoever a little bit of time to get going. But they must be given the opportunity and the freedom to produce their best performances." "Some players don't give a monkeys about the supporters, some supporters don't give a monkeys about players," Wilder added. "I think there's a genuine connection here because of the players and their attitude. If they give 100 per cent effort, they will always get 100 per cent backing."




Read more at: http://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/sheffield-united-we-need-your-support-more-than-ever-now-chris-wilder-tells-fans-ahead-of-fulham-test-1-8867901

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Fulham team news ahead of the trip to face Sheffield United at Bramall Lane

The Whites travel to Sheffield on Tuesday evening and expect a number of players to be back in contention for the squad

Fulham hope to have both Stefan Johansen and Neeskens Kebano available for Tuesday's trip to Sheffield United.

Johansen missed the 1-1 draw with Derby with a high temperature, while Kebano was absent after suffering with a hip problem in the international break, but Slavisa Jokanovic hopes both will be back in contention for tonight's game.

Kevin McDonald will also return to the squad after serving his one-game suspension, while it is unlikely that Jordan Graham, Rafa Soares and Marcelo Djalo will feature having played for the U23s in their 4-3 win over Southampton on Monday night, with Graham bagging a goal.

Liverpool loanee Sheyi Ojo could also return to the matchday squad for the trip to Yorkshire this evening having returned to training last week, with Saturday's game proving just too soon for him.

Speaking after the Derby game, Jokanovic said: "Johansen woke up this morning with a high temperature and he wasn't available, Kebano came back from the international duty with hip problem, we expect both can be available for game on Tuesday."



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-team-news-ahead-trip-13930578

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Kwietniewski earns thrilling win for Fulham

Londoners record fourth win in a row as they edge seven-goal encounter at Southampton

Mikolaj Kwietniewski scored a late winner as Fulham beat Southampton 4-3 to record their fourth successive Division 2 win.

Jordan Graham and Elijah Adebayo put the Londoners 2-0 up, Nathan Tella halved the deficit before Adebayo hit his second to restore Fulham's two-goal advantage.

But Southampton striker Marcus Barnes scored twice to make it 3-3 at the break.

Kwietniewski clinched the points for the Cottagers in the 82nd minute when he converted Graham's cross.

Fulham move up to fifth position, while Southampton remain in seventh place.



https://www.premierleague.com/news/516619

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Early Bird Special on Half Season Tickets

Grab your Half Season Ticket before 5pm Wednesday 22nd November and enjoy two extra games for free!

Start your Half Season Ticket with two home games in December as Fulham take on Birmingham City and Barnsley over the festive period.

Your Half Season Ticket will then include all Sky Bet Championship Home fixtures for the remainder of the campaign, starting with Ipswich Town on Tuesday 2nd January.

With a whole host of other benefits, including priority access to away league games and FA Cup matches and discounts on official Club travel, make sure you don't miss the second half.

With great home fixtures still to come, including Aston Villa, QPR, Leeds United and Brentford, secure your Half Season Ticket today from just £199 for adults and £59 for juniors.

Supporters can purchase online or by phone on 0203 871 0810 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/november/20/secure-the-early-bird-special