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Tuesday Fulham Stuff (10/04/18)...

Started by WhiteJC, April 10, 2018, 07:33:13 AM

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WhiteJC

 
Millwall boss Neil Harris: Bolton game every bit as important as Fulham, Sheffield United, Boro and Aston Villa games
By Richard Cawley

Neil Harris has spelled out that tomorrow's game at Bolton Wanderers is every bit as crucial as Millwall's run-in against fellow Championship promotion-chasers.

The Lions look to make it 16 matches unbeaten in the league when they travel to face Wanderers, who are fighting against the drop.

Millwall follow that with a game at Sheffield United on Saturday and then host Fulham at The Den before further crunch encounters at Middlesbrough and a final day of Aston Villa in South London.

Harris said: "Bolton is as big a game as Sheffield United, Fulham, Boro and Villa.

"Bolton need the points as much as anybody, they have been pulled back into a relegation battle from nowhere.

"My players won't be getting too excited about the fixtures in front. We've got five games to go and are in a great position. We've just got to go and enjoy the games.

"If we don't win another game, so what? What a great season Millwall have had. We want to win every game, we really do. We know that in every game we play we will have moments of quality.

"Sometimes you need your goalkeeper and defence to stand strong or a little bit of luck.

"We are playing full of confidence at the moment. The team – mentally and physically – are in a really good place.

'I really enjoyed watching my team play in an electric atmosphere, the fans were brilliant.

"Will we come unstuck? That's not for me to state. Everyone has got to remember how far we have come and what makes us an unbeaten team in 15 games and we go to the next one.

"If everybody does their job to the best of their ability then there's no reason we can't keep winning games."



https://www.londonnewsonline.co.uk/millwall-boss-neil-harris-bolton-game-every-bit-as-important-as-fulham-sheffield-united-boro-and-aston-villa-games/

WhiteJC

 
Aleksandar Mitrovic has added the missing piece to the Fulham puzzle, claims Ryan Fredericks

Another goal from the Newcastle loanee saw Fulham extend their unbeaten run to 19, and Fredericks believes he's added everything to the side

Ryan Fredericks believes Aleksandar Mitrovic has added the missing piece to the puzzle for Fulham since his arrival from Newcastle United.

The 23-year-old has scored nine goals in 12 games for Slavisa Jokanovic's side, including the only goal in the 1-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday to extend Fulham's unbeaten run to a monumental 19 games.

Goals and an out-and-out striker was something the side have been missing this season, with Rui Fonte and Aboubakar Kamara coming in and having impacts, but not quite to the extent that Mitrovic has had in his short time at Craven Cottage,

And with Reading coming to visit on Tuesday evening, Fredericks thinks that Mitrovic has added Premier League to the side.

He said: "He's added everything, a bit of Premier League quality, you feel like he's got something to prove.

"Everyone has seen how good he is and he has nothing to prove in our eyes, he's big and strong and can get in behind and holds the ball up brilliantly for us.

"He's a missing piece puzzle that was maybe missing the first half of the season, but we also have two other good strikers is Abou and Rui who are very different, but both very good too.

"We have a great squad, people can come on and change games and the boys that are starting are doing a job at the moment too."

Those 19 games unbeaten is an on-going club record for Fulham - something that Fredericks has put down to hard work and quality.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

It's a run that has seen the side go from 17th place to third, just two points off Cardiff City in second, and if results go the right way on Tuesday, Fulham could end the night in second.

And Fredericks has credited the management staff on the way they've been setting the side up as a key reason why they keep winning games.

He added: "Hard work and quality, you have to have quality to go on long runs.

"Mostly it's off the ball, we're working hard as a team, all 11 players, not just the back four and the holding midfielder and the goalkeeper.

"We're closing people down, pressing high up from the front and to be fair to the coaching staff, they're setting us up really well in every game and giving us the best chance to go and win."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aleksandar-mitrovic-added-missing-piece-14508748

WhiteJC

 
Jokanović: Show Patience

Slaviša Jokanović believes Fulham may have to be patient when Reading visit Craven Cottage on Tuesday.

The Royals have kept clean sheets in two of their three matches since Paul Clement replaced Jaap Stam, and Jokanović expects a difficult encounter on the banks of the Thames.

"It's a new test for us," he told fulhamfc.com. "It's going to be tough, like always.

"They changed their coach, they've tried to be a little bit more solid, a little bit more organised defensively. They're going to drop into an organised shape and try and catch us on the counter attack.

"From our side we must show patience, find pace with the ball, try and dominate the game, put them under stress, and try and open up their organised defence.

"I am not thinking about our [19-game unbeaten] run, I am thinking only about the Reading game, about our performance, about our way of playing football, about being confident, about showing ambition, about trying to dominate the opposition, and trying to score a goal.

"We've shown a great defensive level, and we must be focused, we must concentrate to give ourselves a good starting position."


A win for the Whites, coupled with Cardiff City failing to pick up three points, would move us into the automatic promotion places, but Jokanović does not think there is any additional pressure on his side.

"There's no point thinking about something that is not in your hands," he explained. "At the moment all our focus is on the Reading game.

"I believe tomorrow we are in a mentally easier situation than Reading. They must understand they are one step away from being in a complicated situation.

"We are where we are, now we look forward and try and do our job."

Craven Cottage has been packed out of late, and Jokanović is not underestimating the impact that the Fulham faithful has.

"It's a crucial moment of the Championship," he stated. "We need a push from the stands. We have received a lot of support from the stands already, which we are happy about.

"We have been playing in front of an almost full stadium which is good news for us because this makes it a better atmosphere at the Cottage. This is the situation we want, and we enjoy it a lot when it's close to selling out.

"We expect it's going to be a great night and we're going to be focused on trying to find our best performance and our style, and in the end to be competitive and win the game."

Season Ticket Holders can get two additional tickets for the Reading game for just £5 each! Offer ends midnight Monday.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/april/09/slavisa-jokanovic-show-patience


WhiteJC

 
Fulham wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon stokes promotion fire by sending warning to Cardiff City

The teenage sensation has been heavily involved as Slavisa Jokanovic's side sweep all before them

Ryan Sessegnon has warned Cardiff City that Fulham are ready to pounce in the hunt for automatic promotion to the Premier League.

The Bluebirds' dramatic defeat by Wolves on Friday night allowed Fulham to cut the gap to just two points in the race for second place.

Fulham have put together an incredible 19-match unbeaten run to remain in contention, and can leapfrog Cardiff into the Championship top two if they beat Reading on Tuesday night and Neil Warnock's side stumble at Aston Villa.

Teenage full-back Sessegnon admits the Fulham squad were watching events in Cardiff closely on Friday night before securing a 1-0 victory at Sheffield Wednesday less than 24 hours later.


Sessegnon has contributed to Fulham's rich vein of form

"We were aware that we needed to take advantage of that," Sessegnon told the club's website.

"We all watched the game and knew that if Cardiff slipped up then it was our chance to pounce by getting three points and closing the gap on them.

"It is especially pleasing because the gap used to be so big.

"Now we have the belief, we've closed the gap and we keep winning games, so we're just raring to go in the next match."

Fulham host Reading at Craven Cottage as the Bluebirds face Villa in the midlands.



https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-wonderkid-ryan-sessegnon-stokes-14510658

WhiteJC

 
Aleksandar Mitrovic is on fire - but lets not forget about Fulham's other signing of the season

Mitrovic will get all the plaudits for his goals - but for our Fulham reporter, Matt Targett has also been one of the signings of the season

Aleksandar Mitrovic is on fire, and there's no doubting his goals have fired Fulham to within touching distance of the Premier League.

It was a match made in heaven on Transfer Deadline Day - a Whatsapp conversation between himself and Slavisa Jokanovic meant that the wheels were set in motion, and by 11.30pm that night Mitrovic was holding a Fulham shirt.

Now, 12 games and nine goals later, it looks like Mitrovic could well be the signing of the season, despite only being signed on January 31.

His goals have been instrumental, while his presence has added that final piece to the jigsaw that has turned the Whites from nearly-men to full on promotion machine.

And come the end of the season, when people praise his signing as one of the additions of the season, I'll agree with them.

But my thoughts will go to another position, one not so nearly as attractive as a goal scoring forward, and I will shift with unease when I think of where Fulham might be had they not added this player to their ranks.

His name is Matt Targett, and I think he's also one of the signings of the season.

The 22-year-old joined Fulham from Southampton on January 22, and he has since played 13 games for his new club, scoring once.

Goals get you the headlines, but Targett has helped the side keep six clean sheets and has NEVER lost in a Fulham shirt.

I don't care who you are - that stat is staggering in itself.

Like Mitrovic, Targett is exactly what Fulham needed - a strong left back who can get forward and back down the touchline, exactly how Jokanovic wants his fullbacks to play.


(Image: Paul Burgman)

Since losing Scott Malone, the Whites haven't had someone like that - Ryan Sessegnon played there but isn't as good defensively in my view, and needed to be utilised further forward to cause havoc, while Rafa Soares didn't have the legs to play the way Jokanovic wanted.

Targett's acquisition meant that Sessegnon could roam further forward, score goals at will and frighten fully grown men who were leaving high school when the 17-year-old was born, safe in the knowledge he has the Southampton loanee behind him.

There's also the fact that Targett is extremely strong defensively.

His reading of the game is excellent and he always looks comfortable, no matter what area of the pitch he finds himself in.

If you know me at all, you'll know I like the defensive side of the game, and get just as excited when I see a defender smash into an attacker (fairly, I may add) as I do when I see a 30-yard goal, and Targett is one of those old fashioned defenders who likes to get stuck in.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

He's added steel, intelligence and grit to the back line - it's no surprise to me that the upturn in defensive clean sheets has coincided with Targett's arrival.

People will point to Mitrovic as the key signing, and why wouldn't you? Nine goals in 12 games, a physical presence up front, he's the complete package that the Fulham have been crying out for.

But the 22-year-old Southampton man's arrival has ensured the left side of the pitch is as balanced as the right, and since signing he's been consistent in every game - something that has been crucial in this run in.

He returns to Southampton after the season and it remains to be seen whether he'll be back in the white of Fulham next season.

I, for one, hopes he is - you'll be hard pressed to find another left back with the experience and talent Targett has at 22.



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aleksandar-mitrovic-fire-lets-not-14509030

WhiteJC

 
The Championship promotion race: Will Cardiff, Fulham or Aston Villa claim second spot?


Neil Warnock, Aleksandar Mitrovic and John Terry are all vying for promotion

With Wolves on the verge of sealing their place back in the Premier League as Championship champions, the race for the second automatic promotion spot it hotting up.

We are into the season's final stretch now, and three teams still have a chance of claiming second place. Here, we take a closer look at each side's chances.

Cardiff City
2nd, P40 Pts 80

Form guide

LDWWWW
Strength

Defence. Cardiff have the best defensive record in the Championship, having conceded just 34 goals all season and kept 16 clean sheets - manager Neil Warnock's target at the beginning of the season, which he felt would be sufficient to reach the play-offs.

Since the return of Sean Morrison, they have looked even more comfortable at the back. Warnock admits his squad isn't as good as that of Aston Villa or Wolves, but what he does have is a strong spine to the side and an approach very much in the mould of their muck 'n nettles manager.

"We haven't got the Rolls Royces of the division, but, by gum, we've got some endeavour and a lot of skill in some areas as well," Warnock said, recently.
Weakness

Warnock is often criticised for his tactics being one-dimensional. Kenneth Zohore, who has scored eight goals for Cardiff, is often used as a target man to get the ball forward quicker, producing a style of play which can lead to some grumbling from the supporters.

Warnock riles at suggestions he is predictable: "If you've got a target man or someone strong in the air, they can play the ball out to players occupying the wide positions," he pointed out.

Key man

Callum Paterson, who has enjoyed a successful 2018 in a new advanced position. He has taken his goal tally to nine and is the club's second top scorer. The Scotsman had to come off in the defeat against Wolves, but Warnock will be hoping he is fit to feature against Aston Villa on Tuesday in a game that could go a long way to sealing second place.
Remaining games

Aston Villa (a), Norwich Ciy (a), Nottingham Forest (h), Derby County (a), Hull City (a), Reading (h)

Fulham
3rd - P41 Pts 78
Form guide

WWWDWW
Strength

Scoring - especially on the counter, where their pace can be devastating. Last season, Fulham scored 85 goals and could overhaul that tally this year (they currently have 71). Their calculated, quick approach in possession means they can soak up pressure and hit teams on the break. Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has pace in abundance, especially down the left-hand side with Ryan Sessegnon and Sheyi Ojo. Sessegnon has scored a remarkable 14 goals, with 10 coming in his last 18 games.


Ryan Sessegnon is a constant threat on the left Credit: pa


Weakness

Despite Fulham's strength on the break, they are often guilty of sloppiness in possession and are caught out having over-committed in attack. Sessegnon and his opposite full-back, Ryan Fredericks, can be exposed in this area and Jokanovic has moved Sessegnon to the left wing to provide more cover for his full-back. This has paid dividends, with Fulham having now kept three clean sheets in three games. Earlier on in the season, they went 13 games before keeping a clean sheet.

Key man

Aleksander Mitrovic. The on-loan Newcastle striker scored his ninth goal in nine games to extend Fulham's unbeaten run to 19 matches at the weekend against Sheffield Wednesday. He is already their second top scorer this season and his physicality gives Fulham another dimension to their play: he is the battering ram who can hold the ball up for his quicker, more mobile team-mates to find space around him.
Remaining games

Reading (h), Brentford (h), Millwall (a), Sunderland (h), Birmingham (a).

Aston Villa
4th - P41 Pts 73
Form guide

LWDLLW
Strength

Villa's side is bursting with creativity, led by Robert Snodgrass, who has produced a division-high tally of 14 assists. The Scotland international is gradually scrubbing away the miserable experience of his stint at West Ham, where he accused then-manager Slaven Bilic of playing him out of position, and has also chipped in with seven goals. Add that to Albert Adomas's tally of 14, and the skills of Jack Grealish - who has four goals and as many assists - and you begin to see why Villa are still considered a threat, despite their recent wobbles.


Weakness

Consistency has been a problem for Villa this season. They were the pre-season favourites to be champions; instead, they find themselves fourth and with automatic promotion rapidly slipping over the horizon. Since beating Wolves 4-1, they have lost to Norwich, Bolton, QPR, and drawn 0-0 with Hull, while their most recent loss against Norwich City, saw the fans turn against the players.

"The players have let the supporters down, and they have also let themselves down. We have failed to perform when we really needed to," said manager Steve Bruce.
Key man

John Terry has been a colossus at the heart of Villa's defence, earning a place in the Championship Team of the Year, despite missing 10 games through injury. Terry has started in 31 of Villas 41 fixtures so far, helping them keep 12 clean sheets, and will be pivotal if Villa are to regain their place at English football's top table.

"John Terry is a natural leader of men on and off the pitch," Bruce has said. "He is a wonderful footballer but what he has brought to the dressing room is important. He knows what it is like to play the top level."
Remaining games

Cardiff (h), Leeds (h), Ipswich (a), Derby (h), Millwall (a)



https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2018/04/09/championship-promotion-race-will-cardiff-fulham-aston-villa/


WhiteJC

 
Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic: 'Pressure is on Cardiff City'

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has insisted that the pressure is on Cardiff City in the battle for second place in the Championship.

The Serbian coach said that he is feeling "relaxed" as their promotion campaign approaches its conclusion, since he believes that the runners-up spot is Cardiff's to lose.

"I don't know how they feel but we feel completely relaxed," the Daily Mail quotes Jokanovic as saying.

"We've never been second. Cardiff can feel some pressure. We can win something; they can lose something."

Fulham moved within two points of Cardiff when they defeated Sheffield Wednesday 1-0 at the weekend, although the Welsh outfit have one game in hand.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/slavisa-jokanovic-pressure-on-cardiff_323090.html

WhiteJC

 
Denis Odoi turns up the heat on Cardiff and warns they are 'being hunted' by Fulham

Denis Odoi says Cardiff manager Neil Warnock has to be more stressed than his own boss Slavisa Jokanovic because his side are "being hunted" by Fulham.

The Whites closed the gap on second-place Cardiff to two points at the weekend after the Bluebirds were beaten at home by Wolves and Jokanovic's side won away at Sheffield Wednesday, with just five games left.

An angry Warnock lashed out at Wolves' boss Nuno Espirito Santo over a lack of class in victory, but Jokanovic has insisted his team are relaxed as they look for three more points against Reading that could assure them of at least play-off spot.

Odoi said: "I don't know if Slavisa is relaxed. Maybe he is saying he is relaxed, I don't know, but I'm pretty sure Neil Warnock is more stressed than he is for the moment.

"We are just chasing and they are the ones being hunted. If you are running away from someone it is more stressful than for the guy that's chasing you. That's what's happening for the moment and we'll see if we catch them or not.

"I watched part of the Cardiff game, and other guys watched it and they told me about it. It was pretty crazy. I know the result, that's enough for me. I don't need to see the images.

"I am not a psychologist of Cardiff so I'm not going to tell them what to do. But it's hard. In the Championship the next game is three days later, so they have another chance for redemption. But I am not hoping for redemption from their side.

"Tuesday could defining but I think there will be other games that will define the rest of the season. We made a good step and Cardiff dropped some points, but we'll need them to drop some more points. So there will probably be other defining moments."

Belgian right-back Odoi almost left Fulham to return to his home country with Gent last summer but has been a revelation at centre-back instead during the Whites club-record 19-game unbeaten run, after his moved was blocked by the club.

"Maybe if they said I could have done maybe I wouldn't be here," he said. "It's just the way that things happen and I give my all in every training, every day, and for the moment I'm enjoying my time. It's really fun.

"I don't know if it's a masterstroke to put me at centre-back but the gaffer knows mine and Tomas Kalas's qualities, and then maybe he picks us depending on the game. It's a really nice club to play for. Not losing for 19 games is really nice.

"Of course I want to be a part of it (if Fulham are promoted) but you need to be a realist and say 'the Premier League, more money, other players'. But I will still fight for my spot whether it is Championship or Premier League. We will see what happens."



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11324425/denis-odoi-turns-up-the-heat-on-cardiff-and-warns-they-are-being-hunted-by-fulham

WhiteJC

 
Southampton Keen To Sign In-demand Championship Star: A Logical Move?

Fulham's defensive star Ryan Fredericks has apparently been courted by West Ham United, as per recent reports. Head coach David Moyes is even willing to weigh up a move for the 25-year-old in the upcoming summer transfer window, after being impressed by his performance against Leeds United.

However, the Hammers could face stiff competition from fellow Premier League clubs with Southampton and Swansea City also interested in his services.

Southampton, in particular, are in dire need of defensive reinforcements this summer, following an awful season in the English top flight. The Saints are currently dipped in the relegation dogfight but could manage to survive the drop, should they gather enough points in the upcoming matches.

However, should they fail to survive relegation come the end of the season, the Saints are more than expected to lose the services of few of their star players, including Ryan Bertrand. The former Chelsea fullback is regarded as one of the best left-backs in England at the moment and is already courted by league leaders Manchester City.

In fact, the England international has been one of the most consistent left-backs in the league. Therefore, his departure may prove to be a huge blow for the Saints, especially if they drop to second division next season.

However, in the shape of Ryan Fredericks, Southampton may have found a perfect player, who can not only fill in the left back spot but also prove to be a very capable replacement for Ryan Bertrand.

The 25-year-old has been a mainstay in the defensive department for Fulham, who are one of the teams highly expected to win promotion this time around. He has made 39 appearances in the Championship this season, where he has already notched up an impressive tally of nine assists. Only Tim Ream and star player Ryan Sessegnon has managed more minutes than the England fullback for Fulham, which reflects as to how important he has been for the Cottagers, this campaign.

However, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, the 25-year-old will be looking for a new club in the upcoming summer transfer window. Southampton will definitely be the most logical destination for Ryan Fredericks considering their ability to nurture talented players.

But that being said, securing his services might prove to be a little too difficult for the Saints, especially with the opportunity of playing in the Premier League presented with the interest of West Ham United.



http://madaboutepl.net/2018/04/southampton-interested-in-the-services-of-fulhams-ryan-fredericks/


WhiteJC

 
Beaten by the better team

Jos Luhukay conceded that Fulham were the better team in S6 as the Londoners flexed their promotion muscles with a 1-0 win.

Alaksandar Mitrovic scored the only goal of the game late in the second half to keep the heat on Cardiff in second place.

And Owls boss Luhukay said there was no doubting the victors as Wednesday's three-game winning run came to an end.

"Fulham were the better side, particularly in the second half. They could have scored more goals than they did.

"Joe Wildsmith made some very good saves, some in a one on one situation, so for me they were the better side today.

"It was frustrating for us because we saw a lot of the ball but Fulham are a very good side who will always try to attack.

"Today we saw a team who are fighting for automatic promotion and I think Fulham will fight all the way to the end."

To add to a bleak afternoon for Wednesday, influential midfielder Barry Bannan was withdrawn with a possible re-occurrence of his groin injury.

Jos Luhukay conceded that Fulham were the better team in S6 as the Londoners flexed their promotion muscles with a 1-0 win.

Alaksandar Mitrovic scored the only goal of the game late in the second half to keep the heat on Cardiff in second place.

And Owls boss Luhukay said there was no doubting the victors as Wednesday's three-game winning run came to an end.

"Fulham were the better side, particularly in the second half. They could have scored more goals than they did.

"Joe Wildsmith made some very good saves, some in a one on one situation, so for me they were the better side today.

"It was frustrating for us because we saw a lot of the ball but Fulham are a very good side who will always try to attack.

"Today we saw a team who are fighting for automatic promotion and I think Fulham will fight all the way to the end."

To add to a bleak afternoon for Wednesday, influential midfielder Barry Bannan was withdrawn with a possible re-occurrence of his groin injury.

Luhukay added: "This is the story of our season, we seem to lose one player every game.

"Barry is a very important player for us and we lost 20 or 30% of our football when he went off.

"It is too early without the doctor's report but he will not be available for QPR on Tuesday.

"It looks like it could be a similar injury to before but we must wait to see what the report will say."



https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2018/april/beaten-by-the-better-team/

WhiteJC

 
Reading FC: Boss Paul Clement insists 'I don't think I'm the saviour'

PAUL Clement insists he is not the 'saviour' of Reading FC.

Boss Clement has made a positive impact since replacing Jaap Stam last month.

Reading had won just once in 18 league games when Stam left, but have now picked up two victories from their last three matches under Clement.

The former Swansea manager is hoping to keep their impressive form going when Royals travel to Fulham tonight (7.45pm ko).

Clement has masterminded back-toback home wins and clean sheets against QPR and Preston North End to boost Reading's survival hopes in the Championship.

Last Saturday's 1-0 victory over Preston leaves Royals five points above the relegation zone going into tonight's clash at Craven Cottage.

But Clement refused to take the credit for the dramatic turnaround.

"From a points tally point of view, I'm very happy," he explained. "We've taken six points from nine which is encouraging.

"I wasn't very happy with what happened at Aston Villa the other night (lost 3-0) but, based on the run before I arrived, it's a positive turnaround and we've got to keep it going.

"I've gone into a club before and got some positive results early on. I've also been at a club where I struggled for results then the man coming in behind me manages to get them.

"I don't think I'm the saviour here, I'm just trying to work well with these players and they're responding well."

When asked if he's enjoying his work, he replied: "No. I enjoy training but not the games."

Reading's victory over Preston was their first in the league on a Saturday afternoon this season and for almost a year.

Mo Barrow notched his 10th goal of the season to give Royals a 12th minute lead before Clement's men were forced to repel a barrage of Preston attacks to clinch the three points.

But Clement anticipates Fulham will pose a very different kind of threat

'I expect the game to be more fluent with less direct play," he said. "Fulham play good football, they have good athleticism so it will be a different test.

"We'll use training to prepare well for it."

Reading drew 1-1 at home with Fulham earlier in the season and beat them in last season's Championship play-off semi finals before losing to Huddersfield in the final.

Clement is unlikely to make many changes for tonight's fixture, though he could leave out full-back Omar Richards, who was taken off at half time against Preston on Saturday.

"It was a gamble to throw him in because we knew there were issues over his physical condition because he'd missed a lot of games," added Clement.

"He's only had two full training sessions with the squad so he's out of condition. That was about as much as we could get out of him. He had a bit of difficulty and Preston aimed a lot of balls at him.

"The opposition managers sees that he's young and is probably out of condition, so it's a tactic they wanted to use.

"So I took him off to protect him which was the best thing for the team. We reorgansied a bit and it worked out okay."

Fulham's 1-0 win at Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday left them third in the table and two points behind Cardiff City.



http://www.readingchronicle.co.uk/sport/readingfc/16146893.Reading_FC__Boss_Paul_Clement_insists__I_don_t_think_I_m_the_saviour_/

WhiteJC

 
Fulham's mastermind wanted by West Ham: the understated brilliance of £20m Tom Cairney

A top flight return beckons, through promotion or a summer move

Tom Cairney will be playing in the Premier League next season. The question that the next few weeks will answer is: will it be for Fulham, or will it be for someone else?

After this weekend, the chances of the answer being the former look pretty good. Fulham's relentless form continued with a 1-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday, making it 19 league games unbeaten and seven wins from the last eight. More importantly, it closed the gap on Cardiff, who dramatically lost to the handshake-averse Wolves on Friday night, to just two points.

Neil Warnock's men have a game in hand, but that is against a resurgent Derby, and they play Aston Villa on Tuesday. It's just a shame that the two sides won't face each other before the end of the season: in terms of contrasting styles, differing personalities of the two managers and simply how good both teams have been this term, it would have been a monumental clash.

It's also a shame that Fulham's brilliance hasn't been spread out over the season a little more. They took 29 points from the 22 games before this remarkable run, and 49 from the subsequent 19. Had the first half of their season been a little more consistent, then they would have been challenging or even beating Wolves, rather than snapping at Cardiff's heels.

But it probably isn't a coincidence that the time when Fulham's form was patchy almost directly tallied with the time when Cairney was injured. The playmaker missed two months with a knee injury in the autumn, but was back in the team by the end of November.

He missed a few games in January, but other than that he's been an ever-present, and while Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksandar Mitrovic have understandably received more attention and credit, Cairney is probably Fulham's most important player.


West Ham had a bid rejected for Tom Cairney in January (Image: Julian Finney/Getty Images)

He almost has to be, because of their style of play. Most things go through Cairney, operating in that No.10 role in a 4-2-3-1, and Slavisa Jokanovic's demands mean the man in that position has to direct things.

Cairney excels at that most basic training instruction of keeping his head up, a 360 degree awareness of all things on the pitch that allows him to probe and poke and conduct so effectively. The game against Wednesday was the first in the last six when he hasn't either set up or scored a goal.

"I've said it from last season, I think we play Premier League football in the Championship," said Cairney after Fulham outclassed Sheffield United in March, as reported by the Independent. "We play on the grass, and nine times out of 10 we dominate possession and lots of shots at goal. It's great to play in and I'm sure it's great to watch."

And of course, it's not only the fans that have enjoyed watching Cairney. The official explanation for those games he was absent for in January were rehabilitation on his knee, and while there was almost certainly at least an element of truth to that, continuing transfer speculation may also have played a part.

West Ham and West Brom were supposedly interested, after a £20million bid from Newcastle was turned down last summer. Such talk wasn't exactly dampened down when Cairney was spotted in the crowd for West Ham's draw with Chelsea on Sunday: actually, spotted is probably the wrong word, because that implies it took effort to pick him out.

Cairney posted a picture with QPR beanpole Matt Smith outside Stamford Bridge on Instagram before the game and, by accident or design, his seat happened to be right behind the West Ham bench. This was either a genuinely innocent trip to take in a match with a pal combined with an unfortunate ticket allocation, or the least subtle attempt at engineering a transfer since Peter Odemwingie fired up the SatNav.

You're inclined to believe the former, partly because if it was the latter it was enormously clumsy and ill-advised, but more pertinently Cairney's excellence since January means an unsubtle photo-op isn't exactly required to get anyone's attention. David Moyes was at Fulham's win over Leeds last week, and it's fair to say he probably wasn't scouting Oliver Norwood.


Tom Cairney celebrates after scoring for Fulham against Leeds United in March 2017. (Image: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

The man Jokanovic, in his typically understated way, says is "one of the best" in the Championship is showing that. He's good enough for the Premier League now, and almost certainly won't have to wait long to prove that.

It's become a cliche to say that a certain team's best piece of transfer business is to keep hold of a key player, but in Fulham's case this was certainly true. It was a show of determination and a keen leap of faith by Jokanovic to state at the end of last season that they wouldn't be selling Cairney and Sessegnon, and a compliment to a club hierarchy that has not always practiced joined-up thinking, that they backed their manager up.

That decision might just secure them promotion back to the Premier League.



https://www.football.london/championship/fulhams-mastermind-wanted-west-ham-14511262


WhiteJC

 
Omogbehin: Giving Opportunities

Fulham's Under-18s lost 2-1 at Motspur Park on Saturday morning to Scott Parker's Tottenham Hotspur side. Fulham went ahead early on, but conceded in both halves and came away without any points.

"I thought we had a good start and we didn't capitalise on it," commented Head Coach Colin Omogbehin. "We sat back after that, it allowed them to get into a passing rhythm.


"We found it difficult to deal with their movement between our midfield lines and it was very easy for them to play through us.

"In the first half they had the majority of possession and deserved their equaliser. I think they could have even gone in at half time ahead, I didn't think we were great after we scored to be honest.

"With a bit better decision making we maybe could have equalised towards the end, whether it was our final pass or the actual effort on goal.

"It could have been a different outcome, however, Tottenham were the better team on the day and deserved their victory in the end."

The Young Whites are next on the road to Norwich City this coming Saturday and Fulham will be looking to bounce back.

"There are two fixtures left this season and we want to finish as strongly as possible. We need to be more competitive and play with as much quality as possible with and without the ball, hopefully we will have that positive end to the season and get ready for the next."

Fulham played with a young team, with four of the players that featured having been promoted in recent weeks.                                                                                           

"We have high hopes for some of our young players and they are getting a lot of minutes at the moment.

"They have come into the team, they train well and have adapted to playing at Under-18 level. They look comfortable so we are looking forward to seeing them progress, we are a Club that always does this. We're not a Blub that packs our teams with second years.

"We always find room for schoolboys if they are good enough and give them the opportunities to play. "



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/april/10/omogbehin-giving-opportunities

WhiteJC


View From The Town End: Fulham
Some inside info from the Cottagers as Reading travel to West London in search of an unlikely three points.

A big thanks to Fulham fan Andrew Beck for this game's Town End. You can find him on Twitter @ARBeck.

How's the season gone for Fulham so far?

That kind of depends. If you'd told me in July Fulham would have five games left, be only two points behind automatic promotion with games remaining against teams in 23rd, 20th, 19th, 10th, and seventh; I would have been OK, but a little disappointed. If you'd told me the same thing in mid October, I'd have been ecstatic.

Fulham are unbeaten in their last 19 games with only four draws. They haven't lost at home since October. They once again are statistically one of the best teams in the division. It's hard to be too upset, but this team is good enough that they should be going up automatically.

What are the big changes between the Fulham side of last season and of this?

The defense is better this year, they're scoring almost as much (second most goals in the league) while giving up about 1/4 of a goal less per match. Fulham also has a lot more depth this year. They have cover at almost every position and I don't think they are going to be getting tired for the stretch run.

Who are the danger-men that Reading fans need to be keeping an eye on?

Aleksander Mitrovic has been a beast since joining on loan in the Winter. Combine that with Tom Cairney rounding into form and Ryan Sessegnon trying to prove he's the best 17 year old on the planet and you'll have your hands full.

What weaknesses can the Royals look to exploit?

Fulham struggles the most when a team packs it, concedes possession, and makes Fulham break them down. Fulham can sometime move too many men into attack and become vulnerable on the counter. If you can defend well for 90 minutes and finish your chance when you get it on a counter, you might have a chance.

How do you see the game going, and what will the score be?

Fulham might very well need to win out to get to second place. This could be the biggest game of the year because a Fulham win could allow them to sneak into second as Cardiff have to travel to Aston Villa. I expect them to be up for this game and to score more than one goal. It's hard to pick against a team that has one loss in 2018. I'll say Fulham win 2-0.



https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/4/10/17214510/view-from-town-end-fulham-reading-fc-royals-cottagers

WhiteJC

 
Fulham have an attacking dilemma

Despite being the second deadliest attack in the league, Fulham have a problem.

They have no first choice right forward.

Floyd Ayite, Neeskens Kebano, Sheyi Ojo, and Lucas Piazon have all been tried, but none have staked their claim. They have all made between 17 and 26 appearances, yet none has either five goals or assists.

With an outside chance of automatic promotion looming into vision, Slavisa Jokanovic has a serious quandary on his hands.

Ayite has usually started when fit. The Togolese winger has had more starts, 23,  than any of the other candidates. However, he has struggled to produce. Last season, Ayite harvested a healthy bounty of nine goals and seven assists. This has proved a comparatively lean year. He has reaped only four goals, without a single assist.

These struggles have seen Kebano's name bandied around. Yet this is a case of distance making the heart grow fonder.  A return of three goals and three assists from 24 appearances, as well as just 0.5 key passes per game, suggest he is not the solution.

Ojo and Piazon have been, slightly, more productive per appearance. Ojo has four goals and two assists in 21 appearances, while Piazon is statistically the pick of the bunch with four goals and four assists in 17 appearances.

However, both have seen opportunities limited of late by the loan rules. Only five loanees are allowed in each match squad. Aleksandar Mitrovic, Matt Targett, Tomas Kalas, and Oliver Norwood are all either guaranteed starters or necessary back-ups. This leaves one spot between Ojo and Piazon.

The decision of who to include comes down to the role Jokanovic wants them to play. Piazon is a calmer and less excitable presence; Ojo tries to make things happen, with varying degrees of success. For example, Ojo attempts twice as many dribbles per game as Piazon (1.5 to 0.8), but has twice as many bad controls per game (2.1 to 1.1).

This suggests that Ojo should be utilised as an impact sub. So far, he has made a mere four appearances from the bench. Piazon has the strongest claim to start, but, in light of the loan legislation, Ayite is the best bet.

However, what Fulham really need is for one of them to hit form in this final run-in.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-have-an-attacking-dilemma/


WhiteJC

 
Matt Targett reveals Southampton have had NO contact with him since joining Fulham on loan

The 22-year-old has also revealed that staying at Fulham if they got promoted would certainly be an option next season

Matt Targett has revealed that his parent club Southampton have had NO contact with him since he joined Fulham on loan in January.

The 22-year-old signed for the Whites in January on a loan deal until the end of the season and has become a staple in Slavisa Jokanovic's side, playing 13 games and not losing a single one.

Other loanees at the club, such as Chelsea's Tomas Kalas and Lucas Piazon, have regular meetings with their parent clubs, but so far Targett hasn't heard from Southampton, who are in the middle of a relegation battle themselves to try and preserve their Premier League status.

The majority of Fulham fans would love to see Targett back at Craven Cottage next season, and Targett told Get West London that if they were to get promoted, it would certainly be an option for him.

He said: "Believe it or not, I've had none.

"They're in a sticky patch themselves so we'll just have to wait and see what happens at the end of the season.

"[Staying at Fulham next season] is certainly an option, everyone wants to play Premier League football and if Fulham are in the Premier League then I don't see why not.

"I've enjoyed every minute here at Fulham, we haven't lost yet while I've been here and we have to keep that run going.


(Image: Paul Burgman)

"I knew Fulham were a good side, but I didn't realise just how good they were, it's been nice playing week-in, week-out so I can't complain.

"The manager said to me to play my natural game, I like to pass the ball and he likes that style, it was a no-brainer to come here and I've fitted in perfectly, the lads have helped me and it's been nice."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matt-targett-reveals-southampton-no-14509316

WhiteJC

 
Three Players To Watch: Matchday 42 vs. Reading
One word: Reademption!

Last Saturday, Fulham looked like they had a tricky fixture on their hands away to a Sheffield Wednesday side that looked like they were improving under new manager Jos Luhukay. Instead, the result was anything but that to the point where you wondered what the Owls even did during the entire 90 minutes.

In one of Fulham's most dominating performances this season, they outshot Wednesday 22-4, with an 8-0 domination in shots on target. If anything, the 1-0 result did a very poor job of describing the club's dominance all game long. In the end, that is quite fine because this club has been playing with a chip on their shoulder throughout their recent run of good form.

There is a true sense of belief right now that any challenge you put towards Fulham will be met with as much commitment as possible. Now that Aleksander Mitrovic has completed their attack, there is almost little to no weakness within the starting XI and a handful of positions have become interchangeable without the squad needing to skip a beat. It has been beautiful to watch when you consider the run of fixtures being thrown at them.

With five fixtures in 16 days, it would be understandable for any club to go through a bad night in the office or two due to fatigue and forced squad rotation. Instead, Fulham has seemed to not only relish the challenge but get better with every game that is being thrown at them. It has been the staple of this club now since December and long may it continue into May!

Their latest challenge now is to find a way to put all misery behind against their true arch nemesis from a season ago. That is against a Reading team that, despite being under a new manager recently in Paul Clement, has continued to give Fulham fits with their style of play. And with that boring long ball passing (also known as feeding it to Yann Kermorgant's head), the Royals were able to pass through to the playoff final with two of the most boring playoff fixtures you will see in some time. Even the two sides' first fixture since that infamous two-legged affair was miserable thanks to Tomas Kalas' red card. If it wasn't for Lucas Piazon's late equalizer, who knows how fans will feel about tonight's fixture down at Craven Cottage.

But really, today's opponents will have a different feel for who came to Southwest London some 11 months ago. We've already talked about Clement coming in with hopes of bringing in the defensive stability to a club that was missing that under Jaap Stam. That is certainly required, but let's also not forget that their attack has been woeful as well. Like his previous stint at Swansea City, Reading has been a real mess across the board and bluntly have been for some time. But with Kermorgant now only playing 1,135 league minutes, Reading's game plan has fallen apart and their underlying numbers are showing what this club truly is.

How you can only shoot a third-worst rate in the Championship (10.2 times per 90 minutes) while also having the third best possession (54.2%) is anyone's guess. Add in the fact that Reading's shot quality defense has regressed horribly (0.116 expected goals per shot) and you have the recipe for a club that has truly stumbled towards mediocrity. Surely though, there have been a handful of players that have done their best to make this season worth it. Let's go check out who they are as they key men to watch tonight.

Liam Moore

First up is a player that has been previewed before at Cottagers Confidential during Fulham's playoff semifinal. At 25, Moore seemed like a center back that was ready to take the next step towards becoming a ball playing defender that top-flight English club needs. While that is still looking like the case, his long ball passing numbers have deteriorated slightly this season. Along with that, all of his statistical categories when it comes to defending have seemed to decrease slightly across the board.

However, I am not prepared to have statistics being proof as to why Moore is worsening a footballer this campaign. At the end of the day, he is hoofing the ball towards Jon Dadi Bodvarsson more often these days and his center back partner of late has been the less dependable Tiago Ilori instead Paul McShane. While those changes seem minor, it has been able to through Reading's season, let alone Moore's, off-kilter.

Modou Barrow

Next up, we go to one player that has actually seen his reputation improve in the 25-year old Gambian International. Before coming to Reading, Barrow was struggling mightily to break the Swansea City first team. But after signing a permanent contract to Reading, there has been a new lease of life for him and he has rewarded the club with 10 goals and four assists.

Along with that, Barrow has been Reading's most dribbler for a club that is lacking plenty of options in that department. John Swift and Garath McCleary have regressed horribly this season and Reading have struggled to find replacements for Danny Williams and Roy Beerens. In all, it's led to a midfield that is found wanting in the attack, especially when their one secret weapon is no longer receiving playing time at 36 years old.

Sone Aluko
All data from whoscored.com


Lastly, we take a look at a former Fulham player who some may feel is having a torrid time with his current club. While playing for the 19th best club in the Championship will surely bring misery towards anyone, let alone a consummate professional in Aluko, we have all witnessed what the 29-year old is capable of.

While he will never be an efficient scorer, a record of three goals and four assists is still right up there among the club's best offensive contributors. Sadly, that is more an indictment towards Reading for not having enough potency in attack than it is a compliment towards Aluko's quality as an attacking wide player. Still, Fulham fans all know what he is capable of and have had font memories towards a player that added leadership towards a club that desperately needed at the time. If Slavisa Jokanovic's men return to the Premier League in the near future, they will all know that Aluko played a major part in getting them to that summit.



https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/4/10/17218434/three-players-to-watch-matchday-42-vs-reading

WhiteJC

 
Championship promotion odds: Fulham odds-on to make the Premier League after Aston Villa slump

Aston Villa's shock loss against Bolton Wanderers has sent their odds falling

All bookies now have Fulham as odds on to be promoted, as Aston Villa's chances of Premier League football next season recede.

Fulham, whose run has taken them above Villa, are as short as 8/15 to make it into the Premier League next season.

Villa, by comparison, are 5/2 with SkyBet after a series of disappointing results, culminating with a loss to Norwich on the weekend.

Several bookies have stopped taking bets on Wolves being promoted, with Nuno's side potentially days away from confirming their promotion.

Derby County have seen their odds of being promoted wane, and are now largely 9/2.

Tony Pulis's Middlesbrough, who have moved into playoff reckoning, are the same.

Sheffield United are now seen as long odds with the bookies to be promoted.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/championship-promotion-fulham-villa-odds-14163715


WhiteJC

 
Reading In Focus

Here is all the pre-match information ahead of Fulham's meeting with Reading at Craven Cottage on Tuesday evening.

Possible opposition absentees

Paul McShane - hamstring injury

Omar Richards - hamstring injury

Tommy Elphick - knee injury

Tyler Blackett - illness

Jordan Obita - knee injury
Tickets

A limited number of seats remain in the home areas and can be purchased from the Ticket Office. Putney End tickets can be bought from the cash only turnstiles.
Weather

There is a chance of rain in Fulham but it should clear before kick-off, at which point the temperature will be a mild 14 degrees.
Pre-match

Fans can pick up a pint of Carlsberg or Somersby for £3.50 (usually £4.80) up until 6.45pm in the Hammersmith, Riverside and Johnny Haynes Stands.
Stadium Store

Former Fulham right-back Paul Parker will be in the Stadium Store from 5.30-6.30pm to chat with fans and pose for photographs.
He said

"You know you're going to a tough place in Craven Cottage, they've got momentum, they've got confidence - but you never know what can happen in football." - Paul Clement, Reading manager
Live stream

Overseas subscribers to fulhamfctv will be able to watch a live stream of this game. Follow this link for all available packages, and head to www.fulhamfc.com/live from 7.30pm (GMT) to view.
Grosvenor Casinos match odds

Fulham: 8/25

Draw: 21/5

Reading: 8/1
Previous five results

Reading 1-0 Preston North End (Championship)

Aston Villa 3-0 Reading (Championship)

Reading 1-0 Queens Park Rangers (Championship)

Norwich City 3-2 Reading (Championship)

Wolverhampton Wanderers 3-0 Reading (Championship)



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/april/10/reading-in-focus

WhiteJC

 
What Fulham need to do to get automatic promotion

The Whites are on an incredible 19-game unbeaten run.

Fulham's last five matches could prove to be the most important month in their recent history. Just two points behind Cardiff City, second place and automatic promotion is within touching distance, yet a variety of things need to go their way.

Tuesday 10 April, Reading (H)

Prediction: 3 points


A fixture that packs a substantial amount of emotional significance, the Whites face off against Reading in very different circumstances than 11 months ago.

The Royals broke Fulham hearts when they knocked them out of the play-off semi-finals in May 2016, but the two sides have gone in divergent directions since.

Ever since losing in the play-off finals to Huddersfield, Reading have endured a nightmare season, currently mired in 19th position after sacking manager Jaap Stam in February.

After undergoing an eight-match winless run starting in February, Reading have won two out of their last three matches. Despite the recent improvement in form, Fulham should easily deal with the Royals at Craven Cottage.

Saturday 14 April, Brentford (H)

Prediction: 3 points


The West London derby will prove to be a tough match, as Fulham lost away at Griffin Park in the reverse fixture. Yet the Cottager's imperious home form will be too much for the Bees; Fulham have not lost at home since Halloween against Bristol City.

Brentford are on a run of good form, unbeaten in their last four, and still harbour faint hopes of sneaking into the play-offs.

But by the time they face Fulham, the gap to sixth will prove to be insurmountable, leaving the Bees with little to play for. This lack of intensity will hand the Whites all three points on their march to second.

Friday 20 April, Millwall (A)

Prediction: 1 point


By far Fulham's most challenging match remaining in their run-in, a trip to The Den to face off against red-hot Millwall is no walk in the park.

Remarkably, Millwall have matched Fulham's scintillating form over the past ten matches; both sides have won eight and drawn two. This scorching spell has led Millwall on a ferocious charge up the table, leaving the South London side just one point off the play-off places.

Millwall's aggressive style of play will cause Fulham numerous problems, and in a match reminiscent of Bristol City away, the Whites will travel back to SW6 with just the solitary point.

Friday 27 April, Sunderland (H)

Prediction: 3 points


Fulham know all too well the dangers of underestimating Sunderland. The Black Cats were the last league side Fulham tasted defeat to, all the way back in mid-December.

This time around, however, Sunderland have sunk further into the relegation places while Fulham have ascended to the upper reaches of the league. Sunderland have won just one of their last 13 matches, an improbable 4-1 victory away at Derby, but the chances of a repeat at Craven Cottage look slim.

On the day, Fulham's quality will prove overwhelming for the League 1 bound Black Cats.

Sunday 6 May, Birmingham City (A)

Prediction: 3 points


The Whites travel to St. Andrew's on the final day of the season to play a relegation-threatened Birmingham City side.

The Midlands outfit have struggled immensely at times this season, but have enjoyed a recent uptick in form, winning four out of their last three and lifting themselves three points clear of safety. Their Championship status is still in limbo, as they face a brutal fight to avoid 22nd place between themselves, Barnsley, and Bolton.

Fulham should have the edge, nonetheless, and will notch all three points to complete an unbeaten second half of the season.

Total points haul: 13

If these predictions hold true, then the Whites will end the year with 91 points. In order to hand Fulham second place, Cardiff can attain no more than 11 points from their final six matches, a feat that is not out of the question.

If the Bluebirds lose to Aston Villa and Derby, while drawing with Norwich City, they could still win their remaining three matches and finish with 90 points – one point shy of Fulham.

Second place is possible if still improbable dream for the Whites- they just need to finish the year unbeaten and hope for a late collapse from the Bluebirds.



https://tbrfootball.com/what-fulham-need-to-do-to-get-automatic-promotion/