Sunday Fulham Stuff (15/07/18)...

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 07:42:12 AM

Fulham still pursuing deal to sign Targett

Fulham are still pursuing a deal to sign Matt Targett despite having a bid rejected by Southampton.

The Whites offered £5m for the left-back, who impressed after joining them on loan in January, playing a key role in them winning promotion via the play-offs.

Southampton want to keep him and turned the offer down, but Fulham still believe a deal can be done.

West London Sport revealed earlier this summer that Fulham were looking to sign five of the players who ended last season on loan at Craven Cottage and also revealed the Whites wanted Jean-Michael Seri, who has since arrived from Nice.

They are currently edging towards the signing of Aleksandar Mitrović from Newcastle and are also interested in signing Oliver Norwood from Brighton and Tomas Kalas and Lucas Piazon from Chelsea.

But Fulham are not looking to bring in Werder Bremen left-back Ludwig Augustinsson despite being linked with the Swede.

https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-aiming-for-deal-with-southampton-for-targett-but-are-not-pursuing-swedish-defender

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 07:46:31 AM

Fulham still chasing Targett deal
by Dan on July 14, 2018

Fulham haven't get up hope of concluding a deal with Southampton for the permanent transfer of left back Matt Targett, according to reports this morning.

The Whites have not been deterred by having a £10m bid for the former England under 21 international rejected earlier this summer and are hoping to capitalise on the defender's reported unhappiness at not being able to discuss terms over a move to Craven Cottage. Targett, who starred during a successful loan spell in west London during the second half of last season, is unwilling to sit on the Southampton bench again this season after getting a taste of first-team football last term.

The 22 year-old, who made 21 appearances as Slavisa Jokanovic's side reached the Premier League via the Championship play-offs, is viewed as one of Fulham's top targets after striking up a great understanding with Ryan Sessegnon along the left flank. Jokanovic is known to be seeking reinforcements at left back, despite the signing of Maxime La Marchand from Nice last week, in order to allow Sessegnon to continue operating in the left wing role where he finished last season. Fulham have also been linked with a potential move for Werder Bremen's Swedish international full-back Ludwig Augustinsson, who the Cottagers reportedly scouted during the World Cup.

The Eastleigh-born defender has been with Southampton since the age of eight and made his senior debut for the club in the EFL Cup against Millwall in August 2014. Targett has gone to make 42 first-team appearances for the Saints, but has fallen behind England international Ryan Bertrand in the pecking order at St. Mary's. Southampton boss Mark Hughes is keen to hold onto Targett as he seeks to keep the Saints' best young talent at the club, but Fulham are confident that they can secure the attack-minded left back on a permanent basis.

http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fulham-still-chasing-targett-deal/

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 07:53:06 AM

2018 Fulham Player Profiles: Floyd Ayite
Is the Togolese International good enough to maintain his rotation spot?

WhoScored Rating Chart

Radar

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Goals vs. Expected Goals

From experimental361.com

Transfermarket Value Chart

From transkermarket.co.uk

CC Thoughts: One thing that you know Floyd Ayite will bring everytime he steps onto the pitch is a workmanlike performance and a willingness to do whatever it takes for the team. Unfortunately for him, that will mean putting his body on the line a little too much to the supporters' liking. This past season, Ayite missed a grand total of 12 games due to either a calf or hamstring injury followed by another four fixtures in which manager Slavisa Jokanovic did not even bother to put him on the matchday squad.

That being said, his attacking play was still strong even though there was no end product to them. His 4.20 combined key passes and shots per 90 minutes ranked fourth among Fulham players. In fact, it was Ayite's highest rate of offensive contribution since his breakout 2013/14 campaign back when he was at Reims. Unfortunately, that only translated to just the four goals and two assists in the equivalent of 19.3 90-minute games. On average, that is 0.31 goals and assists per 90 minutes, and just a 7.4% chance that any attack with Ayite's direct involvement becomes a Fulham goal.

That is much lower than the 15.5% involvement conversion rate he had last season in which Ayite had 9 goals and 7 assists. You may say that this was a step back, but you can also add that this was a bit of regression to the mean as his career involvement conversion rate is just 9.2%. It was just too good to be true to see the now-29 year old sitting tops in the club charts in goal scoring rate with 0.32 per 90 minutes in 2016/17. Add in the injuries that have been piling on Ayite, being forced to play center forward when Fulham had no one else to do the job well in the middle of the season and then the Mitrovic affect that took affect in February onwards, and it made sense for him to have the season he had.

So what is Jokanovic to do with Ayite in 2018/19? His guaranteed portion of his contract runs out after this season and he'll be turning 30 years old playing in a league that will be much tougher to handle week-in week-out. It'll be interesting to see if Jokanovic persists using him or finding a massive upgrade that probably will be required.

Key Stat: 4.6% of passes were of chance creating variety. Sure, attacking players don't have that much volume on passes because they don't get the same amount of opportunities with the ball at their feet as midfielders or defenders do. However, when attacking players do have the ball, they are expected to do the most with it. This is what makes the case that Ayite leading the club in this statistic is quite remarkable, especially since Lucas Piazon is second among Fulham players in this category at just 3.1%.

Your thoughts: If you were Jokanovic, Tony Kahn and the rest of the Fulham board, what should be done for a soon-to-be 30-year old with a year-plus left on his contract who played the least amount of league football in seven years and declined miserably despite doing so much for the good of the team? Should he stay or is time to cash in? Do you think Ayite will rebound after this season or is the Premier League just to hard of a league to find out that answer? Don't be afraid to leave your thoughts on the comment section below.

https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/7/14/17570204/2018-fulham-player-profiles-floyd-ayite

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 07:54:48 AM

Fulham not giving up in their bid to sign Matt Targett

Southampton are determined to keep hold of Matt Targett this summer but Fulham are refusing to give up in their pursuit of the youngster.

Targett spent the second half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage and proved to be an instrumental player for the Whites, as they lost only twice when he played.

The Saints academy graduate is held in high esteem at St Mary's Stadium and it's believed that the club are adamant that they will not sanction his sale this summer.

It was reported earlier this month that Fulham were growing frustrated in their bid to sign Targett from Southampton, having already had one bid turned down.

However, according to fresh claims from West London Sport, the Whites remain desperate to sign Targett and will not give up in their pursuit of the former England Under-21 international.

Targett has enjoyed an involved role in Mark Hughes' pre-season plans so far and will be hoping that, whether it be at Fulham or Southampton, he can play first-team football on a regular basis in the upcoming campaign.

https://readsouthampton.com/2018/07/14/fulham-not-giving-up-in-their-bid-to-sign-matt-targett/

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 07:56:36 AM

Fulham join Wolves and Newcastle in race for Manchester City youngster Zinchenko
Following an impressive bit-part performance at wing-back, Manchester City youngster, Oleksandr Zinchenko, finds himself in a three-way battle for his signature

After a series of impressive performances for Pep's all-conquering Manchester City, Ukranian international and former FC UFA star Oleksandr Zinchenko has become a top target for not only Wolves and Fulham but also Newcastle.

The attacking midfielder, who only made eight appearances last season mostly at wing-back, was almost a forgotten figure at the Etihad with his most notable appearance coming after he knocked over the Premier League trophy on the last day of the season.

Small steps
While the 21-year-old is currently enjoying the dizzying heights of the Premier League it wasn't always the case. In fact, the attacking midfielder is a product of Youth Sporitve School Karpatiya of his native Radomyshl before moving to FC Monolit Illichivsk and FC Shakhtar Donetsk.

Shakhtar Donetsk is renowned for producing some of the best talents in world Football with Chelsea's Willian, Juventus star Douglas Costa and now Manchester United star Fred among the talents produced by "the Hirnyky" (the miners); and soon it was clear that Zinchenko would be no different.

But for some reason, it just didn't work out for Zinchenko at Shakhtar moving onto UFA. Making his debut in March 2015 it wasn't long until the youngster became a regular in Russia linking up with former Arsenal man Emmanuel Frimpong.

In a campaign where the Ukranian netted twice and notched four assists, Zinchenko became one of the brightest talents in Russia with Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City chasing his signature, with the latter winning the race for the youngster.

Loan life
Despite being highly touted by the Citizens he was immediately loan listed, with PSV Eindhoven winning the loan race for Zinchenko.

Yet it was not the move that would propel Zinchenko into stardom as he would have hoped as he made only 12 appearances for the first team before being demoted to the second team.

Upon returning to the Citizens after making only 19 appearances for the first and second team it was decided that the youngster would not go out on loan once more. Under Pep's tutorage Zinchenko, with others such as Englishman Phil Foden developed tremendously in 2017/18.

But despite Zinchenko, who was fondly nicknamed "Harry" after his likeness to the Prince, development he made only eight appearances for the Sky Blues. Predominantly at Wing-back filling in for Fabian Delph, an unfamiliar position for the attack-minded player.

It is believed that Wolves, who currently lead the race for the 21-year-old will make a move for Zinchenko on a permanent basis. Yet in the last 24 hours have believed to be trumped by Fulham, who have reportedly made a £16 million bid for the Ukranian.

Fulham, who have already beat Chelsea to the signing of £25 million signing Jean Michael Serri and also acquired the services of Seri's teammate Maxime Le Marchand following a double move from Nice.

Whilst Newcastle have registered interest in the Premier League winner, it is believed a move to St. James Park would only be a back-up should a deal for Top Target Andros Townsend fall through.

https://realsport101.com/news/sports/football/fulham-join-wolves-and-newcastle-in-race-for-manchester-city-youngster-zinchenko/

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:02:59 AM

Fulham vs Reading player ratings: Superb Cyrus Christie and the young guns shine at Aldershot

The Cottagers finished with a 0-0 draw against the Royals

There was plenty of excitement and anticipation ahead of Fulham vs Reading as fans got their first chance to see the Cottager's live ahead of their season back in the Premier League.

The 0-0 result perhaps pointed to a lack of potency but there were plenty of positives to take too.

It was easy to recognise the Fulham from last season but and the Cottagers started with a strong side, though Tim Ream needed to be substituted early after a head injury.

There was plenty of nice football on show and the Whites looked the superior side but lacked a focal point in the first half as Neeskens Kebano mostly found himself in the role of striker.

Though Fulham dominated, Reading did break with purpose and Marek Rodak certainly announced himself to the crowd with some superb saves - notably right on half time as Yakou Meite was clean through.

It was more the same in the second half and plenty of substitutions followed, with a young side perhaps looking more threatening than their earlier counterparts.

Marek Rodak

Very calm for such a young keeper, played the ball out nicely when required, finding spaces between the lines and pulled of a crucial save when Andy Yiadom broke free as well as from Meite on half time. 8.
Cyrus Christie

The ready-made replacement for Ryan Fredericks, and he's showing the same electric pace and penetration. Impressive performance in attack and defence with a decent try at goal and the best tackle of the match. 8.
Denis Odoi

After plenty of time in and out of the side Odoi eventually found his home a centre back towards the end of the season and showed some superb form. He looked very comfortable this afternoon, chesting the ball down from keeper's kicks and starting play. 7.
Tim Ream

A performance that lasted only 11 minutes but always had the crowd behind him. Went of after a nasty head collision - he obviously won the header though. 5
Maxime Le Marchand

Lined up on the left but Ream's injury meant he moved central in the early stages. Looked strong up against Meite and very comfortable on the ball. His pace wasn't tested however. 6.
Stefan Johansen

A typical performance from the midfielder who was substituted at half time. Always looked to create and was a sold presence. 5.
Tom Cairney

As you expect he was charge with dictating play but if anything seemed to drop even deeper to do so against Reading. Often found himself on Fulham's 18-yard box to get the ball moving. 6.
Luca De La Torre

The American grew into the game and looked to have a fantastic relationship with Ryan Sessegnon on the left side. 7.
Aboubakar Kamara

A difficult first 45 minutes for a man who ended last season in phenomenal form. Didn't have quite the same physicality but was much improved in the second half. 5.
Neeskens Kebano

Most often foudn in a central role up front as Fulham looked to launch quick through balls more often. Asked questions of the Reading defence and looked a threaten but didn't quite have the presence to challenge as play built. Lethal in transitions however. 6.
Ryan Sessegnon

A slow start to proceedings by his standards but was typically threatening cutting in from the left. 6.
Subs:
Steven Sessegnon (11mins)

A decent display, often found himself isolated as Yiadom pushed high up the pitch but was generally comfortable. He wasn't frightened to push up that left wing and had some nice interchanges with his brother and de la Torre. 6.
Ibrahima Cisse (46mins)

The Belgian played in a deep role and looked strong. Had a couple of efforts on goal from distance without really threatening. 5.
Moritz Jenz (46mins)

Looked to have fantastic first touch from the off and was very strong in defence too. Crucial blocks and solid passing - very impressed. 7.
Marcelo Djalo (60mins)

Had a good partenership alongside Jenz when he was introduced. Certainly didn't look out of place. 6.
Marlon Fossey (60mins)

Settled in at right back and could certainly be considered marauding. Lively half hour. 6
Matt O'Riley (60mins)

Wow, how good did the 17-year-old look?! Tidy touches, passes, tackles without wanting to hype him up too much, he looked the real deal. Did quieten as the match came to a close. 7.
Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson (60mins)

Took the field on the left wing but struggled to see much of the ball. 4.
Tyrese Francois (60mins)

Dimutive in size but really quick feet and agility. Didn't see loads of the ball but looked threatening when he did. 6
Mattias Kait (60mins)

Always looked for the ball and to go forward. A decent showing on the right hand side. 6
Rui Fonte (60mins)

Didn't have a major impact but did hit the post from 20 yards with a fierce strike. Helped Fulham's shape. 5
Taye Ashby-Hammond (69mins)

A difficult task to come on so late in goal but always looked to try and advance play with some good football. It led to a few miss hits but he looked very comfortable collecting the ball from corners. 5.

https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-vs-reading-player-ratings-14908470

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:04:26 AM

Fulham held by Reading
by Sarah on July 14, 2018

Fulham were held to a draw by Championship outfit Reading in their latest pre-season friendly on another beautiful summer's afternoon at Aldershot Town.

Slavisa Jokanovic handed French defender Maxime Le Marchand a first start after he joined from Nice last week and star midfielder Jean-Michael Seri watched his new team-mates from the stands, having not been included in the Fulham matchday squad. Le Marchand looked much more comfortable at centre back, having been moved into the middle of the back four after Tim Ream was substituted after twelve minutes following a nasty clash of heads with David Meyler.

The friendly was always likely to be played a pedestrian pace given the early stage of both teams' pre-season preparations and the heat, but Fulham's deliberate approach play led to a slower tempo. The Whites dominated possession but struggled to unlock the Reading defence and it was the Royals who had the first real chance, with Liam Kelly's audacious long-range attempt to chip Marek Rodak drifting wide.

Cyrus Christie, vying for the right back spot after the departure of Ryan Fredericks, added a bit of urgency into Fulham's play and his strong run took him away from two Royals defenders into a dangerous position but the Irish international's shot flashed wide. Former Arsenal goalkeeper Vito Mannone was called into action for the first time when a cleverly worked free-kick offered Steven Sessegnon an opportunity, but the defender's drive was easily fielded by Mannone.

Two minutes later, Ryan Sessegnon turned brilliantly away from Andy Yiadom to create a bit of space in the box. His right-footed effort looked destined for the bottom corner but Liam Moore produced a brilliant clearance. A nice move involving Le Marchand and American youngster Luca de la Torre culminated in a deep cross from Steven Sessegnon finding Aboubakar Kamara but the Frenchman couldn't hit the target at the back post.

Reading had two very good chances to take the lead before the break. First, Modou Barrow surged onto a through ball and raced clear of the Fulham defence. The former Swansea forward elected to shoot from the edge of the box but dragged a disappointing effort wide. On the stroke of half time, Ivorian winger Yakou Meite found himself one-on-one with Rodak and the young Fulham goalkeeper improvised superbly to save with his feet to preserve parity.

Fulham started the second half on the front foot and spurned a couple of presentable chances to go in front. Neeskens Kebano sent Ryan Sessegnon scampering into the penalty area but his shot was bravely blocked behind by Yiadom. The Whites almost took the lead five minutes later following a blistering counter-attack when Kebano was foiled by a good save from Mannone and de la Torre sidefooted the rebound agonisingly over the crossbar.

Reading could have grabbed the opener themselves a minute later at the other end but Meite's volley flew fractionally wide after some excellent support play from Barrow down the right flank. The rhythm of the encounter was then severely disrupted by a whole host of changes – and Fulham had the clearer chances in the final twenty minutes. Moritz Jenz headed just wide from a Matt O'Riley corner and Mannone fielded an optimistic long-range drive from Ibrahima Cisse.

The Royals almost stole victory with seven minutes to play after some tricky footwork from Pelle Clement took the Dutch midfielder into the penalty area, but his eventual shot didn't trouble Fulham's substitute goalkeeper Taye Ashby-Hammond. One of Fulham's substitutes, Rui Fonte, went even closer in the closing stages – cutting in from the right flank and grazing the far-post with a curling strike – but neither side were able to find a late winner.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Rodak (T. Ashby-Hammond 72); Christie (Fossey 62), Le Marchand (Jenz 45), Odoi (Djalo 62), Ream (S. Sessegnon 12); Johansen (Cisse 45), Cairney (O'Riley 62), de la Torre (Kait 62); Kebano (Thorsteinsson 62), R. Sessegnon (Fonte 62), Kamara (Thorsteinsson 62).

READING (4-4-2): Mannone; Yiadom (Gunter 62), Blackett (Richards 62), Moore (McShane 62), Ilori (O'Shea 62); Meyler (Bacuna 62), Kelly (Clement 75), Aluko (Evans 75), Swift (McNulty 62); Meite (Smith 75), Barrow (Rinomhota 62).

http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fulham-held-by-reading/

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:05:25 AM

Fulham draw with Reading in friendly

New signing Maxime Le Marchand featured for Fulham as they drew 0-0 with Reading in a pre-season friendly at Aldershot Town's Recreation Ground.

It was the left-back's first appearance for the Whites since being signed from Nice along with Jean-Michael Seri, who watched the game from the stands.

Le Marchand played the first half, while Fulham defender Tim Ream came off after just 12 minutes following a clash of heads.

Both teams made a host of changes in the second half, with Ryan Sessegnon, Rui Fonte, Moritz Jenz and Ibrahima Cissé all going close to scoring for Fulham.

https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/new-signing-plays-as-fulham-draw-with-reading-in-friendly

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:07:28 AM

Fulham's Seri acquisition proves Newcastle could be left behind their PL rivals

After achieving promotion via the play-offs last season it's fair to say that Fulham are one of the favourites to be relegated from the Premier League next season – on paper at least – but their recent acquisition of Jean Michael Seri suggests they have both the financial backing and the geographical appeal to steer clear of a relegation battle.

Following months of speculation which consistently linked Seri with a transfer to some of Europe's most prestigious clubs, Seri completed a £25 million transfer to Fulham on Thursday in a deal which nobody saw coming. Maxime Le Marchand has also joined Seri at Craven Cottage as Fulham's strengthening mission begins to take shape, and it's unlikely they'll be the last players to arrive this summer.

Fulham's acquisition represents a fantastic coup for the club and a timely reminder to the rest of their Premier League rivals that the appeal of a London-based club is one which is difficult to compete with.

You only need to take a look at the success West Ham are enjoying in the transfer market so far this summer to realise that London-based Premier League clubs have a huge advantage in the transfer market, and that notion is deeply concerning for Newcastle United.

Regardless of whether Mike Ashley is cash-strapped or simply unwilling to invest in the Newcastle squad remains unclear, but one thing has become glaringly apparent from Fulham's recent acquisition: the Magpies will eventually return to the Championship if Ashley fails to sell the club in the near future.

With recently-promoted Wolves also spending huge sums of money in the transfer market there is plenty of reason to suggest that the standard of the Premier League is going to continue to increase in the seasons to come, and clubs such as Newcastle who are financially inferior could be left in the wake of Championship clubs who have get taken over by investors with plenty of cash to invest in new talent.

Not only is the signing of Seri a huge statement of intent from Fulham which proves their owners are willing to back Slavisa Jokanovic in the transfer market, the Ivorian is quite simply a brilliant acquisition who will add a significant layer of play-making quality to their midfield.

Rafa Benitez did a stupendous job in keeping Newcastle in the Premier League last season with such conviction, but he is not a miracle worker by any stretch, so if Ashley fails to react to Fulham's watershed acquisition with a marque signing of his own, the Magpies will be set for a relegation scrap next season.

https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulhams-seri-acquisition-proves-newcastle-could-be-left-behind-their-pl-rivals/

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:11:20 AM

2018 Fulham Player Profiles: David Button
What should we make of the always belittled goalkeer?

WhoScored Rating Chart

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Transfermarket Value Chart

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CC Thoughts: Welp, this is really looking like the end of the road for David Button for Fulham. One of the more definitive rumors this summer has been that Fulham and Brighton & Hove Albion are in discussions of swapping back-up goalkeepers. Fulham would get former Newcastle man and Dutch International Tim Krul while the Seagulls take Button.

Either way, the signs have been there from not just the Fulham staff, but the supporters as well that Button just isn't cut for it to be a starting goalkeeper for not just a Premier League side, but also one that is in the Championship expecting to guide them towards promotion. This season got off on the worst of notes for the former Brentford number one when he was constantly getting berated with abuse by the home support in Fulham's preseason friendly with Werder Bremen. And after what looked like a solid start to the season, things really began to fall apart for Button.

He no longer was making the timely or game-changing saves that were required of him and his always poor long ball distributions kept getting worse. Gradually, Button was going from possibly one of Fulham's best players to being their most detrimental. The final exclamation point to his poor play was the 3-1 defeat to his former club at Griffin Park. In that particular game, Button hands weren't strong enough to punch away a lazy shot on the first goal conceded while he was caught out of position and indecisive in the remaining two goals conceded.

In came Marcus Bettinelli to save Fulham from further calamities in goal and the rest has been history for Fulham. Unfortunately, it also meant history for Button's career as a number one keeper. It's crazy to think of how much of a club legend he was at Brentford to see him be so loathed at Craven Cottage but that was what ended up happening. And with one guaranteed season left on his contract, it might be best for both club and individual to part their separate ways.

Key Stat: 1.30 goals for per game while Button was in goal. As it has been discussed before, Button never really had the support he had from his teammates to be able to collect three points every matchday and that was most evident on the attacking side of things. You could make the case that if he were to just play with Aleksander Mitrovic, his performances would have been improved. But since we already saw what took place with Button playing with Chris Martin, you could have argued that we have already seen what we needed to know.

Your thoughts: So what say you about David Button? Was he always a poor goalkeeper in your eyes or were their redeeming qualities during his tenure with Fulham? Now at 29, do you still see him starting in goal somewhere in the top tiers of English football? If so, what is his ceiling now? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.

https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/7/14/17571628/2018-fulham-player-profiles-david-button

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:12:22 AM

Club prefer to transfer player to Fulham on a permanent basis, loan would be second option

Now that Fulham are reportedly making an offer for the Benfica winger Andre Carrillo, his situation is being explained in the Portuguese press once again.

This Saturday, newspaper Record has a short story covering those reports from Peru, saying that the Whites have offered the player twice what he earns at Benfica.

The Lisbon outlet now explains that the Eagles' intention is to let Carrillo go for good. The priority is to find a club who can pay for a permanent transfer.

Then the alternative is to let him go on loan, like he did when moving to Watford last summer, always with a buying option included in the deal.

Carrillo has recently been linked to Saudi side Al Hilal, but they didn't accept to pay €4m just for his loan spell.

Considering that Everton's interest has also gone silent in the past few weeks, maybe Fulham will find themselves as lone runners in the race for the winger.

http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-prefer-transfer-player-fulham-permanent-basis-loan-second-option/

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:19:56 AM

The five things we learned from Maxime Le Marchand's debut performance for Fulham vs Reading

Marchard played 45 minutes against Reading at Aldershot.

Maxime Le Marchand has been a Fulham player all of a couple of days and has already made his debut but what did we learn in his 45 minute performance against Reading? A little bit actually.

The player signed alongside Jean-Michael Seri from Nice earlier this week and while the Ivorian watched from the stands, Le Marchand was fully thrust into the swing of things.

He certainly put in a good first impression though and looks to be fitting in well after only a short amount of time in training.

Here's what we learned:

He's fit

As noted above, Le Marchand hasn't had much time to settle in at the club - only arriving on Wednesday - but he he has proved he's ready to step in. He was only on the pitch for 45 minutes but never seemed to struggle, while Seri wasn't involved at all.

We don't know the reason for his lack of playing time, but the fact both players spent time training under Patrick Vieira at Nice in pre-season despite their pending departures is a very positive start to preparations.

Vieira had mentioned to L'Equipe: "Team members like Jean Michael Seri and Maxime Le Marchand, who knew they were changing clubs, were present.

"It was not easy for them but they worked, respecting the club. They were able to greet everyone, the club and even the fans."

Nice's defender Maxime Le Marchand (R) vies with Strasbourg's midfielder Jonas Martin (Image: FREDERICK FLORIN/AFP/Getty Images)

You don't need to speak the language

It's often said that a player's ability to communicate can set them apart and elevate their game but today that posed no problems.

Le Marchand speaks only a very small amount of English but it didn't hold him back. After Tim Ream's head injury in the first 10 minutes, a change of shape was in order and the Frenchman moved from out wide to centre-half with no fuss or confusion.

It took a little while for Steven Sessegnon and the 28-year-old to work out their positioning but the shape got better and Andy Yiadom was free less often.

Marchand didn't look out of step and even admitted he knew some basic words for the pitch already, it seems he could settle right in.

He can play more than one position

When the Frenchman lined up at left back in a defence that included Tim Ream, Denis Odoi and Cyrus Christie there was a slight feeling that could be the backline that starts the season.

Though his time on the left was brief, the former Le Harve captain looked at home before moving to a central position. If he'd started there, he wouldn't have looked out of place, he stands a shade over six foot and had plenty of physicality to match Reading's Yakou Meite.

Le Marchand was utilised in both positions during his time at Nice, and in his youth career was deployed on the left wing so it seems Fulham have landed a versatile player.

Very comfortable on the ball

This was the standout of the defender's display. He never looked troubled in possession of the ball and seemed very considered in whether he played it short or long. He played a pristine pass through to Neeskens Kebano during the first half that Tom Cairney would have been proud of, and also had some rapid passing interchanges with the midfield maestro.

In fact it would have been interesting if the ex-Nice man had more responsibility to start attacks rather than the Cottagers' captain collecting the ball so deep, so often.

Le Marchand's use of the ball seemed natural and while the Royals didn't put masses of pressure on his possession, it could be a real asset in the Premier League.

Different to Matt Targett

Aleksandar Mitrovic stole most of the headlines as been the difference-maker in Fulham's promotion push after joining on loan in January. Most Fulham fans would see Matt Targett as being just as responsible however.

While we didn't see much of Le Marchand on the left, it seems he is a different style of player.

Targett was a workhorse, physical and provided plenty of support to Ryan Sessegnon while providing the balance the side needed. The Southampton loanee often produce good balls through and menacing crosses but the Frenchman appears to have a great range of passing that he's not frightened to release.

Whether he is as mobile as Targett remains to be seen but there's plenty to suggest he could be good going forward, particularly in intricate moves when the opposition sit deep.

It will be interesting whether the reported links to Targett will continue now Le Marchand has bee signed, and which position the new signing will ultimately find himself in.

https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-reading-friendly-maxime-marchand-14908730

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:21:42 AM

Fulham Enters Bidding War To Rival Wolves For £16m Manchester City Star: Should Pep Let Him Go?

Pep Guardiola, in his two years at Etihad, has made Manchester City a real force in the Premier League. However, he is still desperate to improve his squad and is constantly looking for people who can better his side from the previous season. He is also thinking about the future of the youngsters, struggling to break into the first team.

One such player, now wanted by newly promoted sides Fulham and Wolves is Oleksandr Zinchenko. The Ukrainian international was one of the first signings for Guardiola at Manchester City and at just 21, he is not expected to make an impact on the first team. He is a holding midfielder, strong with the defensive part of his game.

However, he only managed to play as a left-back or a wing-back under Pep in the last season. Zinchenko had made six Premier League starts with his best outing probably coming against Chelsea at the Etihad in March. He is strong in the air and in hold up play, while his passing range makes him dangerous from a deeper role.

He can pick teammates in space, even under pressure and is also confident with the ball at his feet. He is still 21 and has a bright future ahead of him, but he might not have a real immediate future at the Etihad.

And reports now claim that newly promoted side Wolves are ready to break their transfer record to sign the youngster this summer. He is valued at £16m and is also wanted by Fulham, but it is understood that Zinchenko will now have to take a decision about his future.

At the moment, the 21-year old does not look like a midfield option for the Spaniard while Benjamin Mendy and Fabian Delph are above him in the pecking order for the left-back role. This will mean that Zinchenko will not get regular outings with the first team, which could be frustrating for a player his age.

At Craven Cottage or the Molineux, the midfielder will not only get regular playing time but will also have a platform to announce himself to the league. His potential is undoubted and his versatility will make him a real asset for any team in the Premier League. So Wolves and Fulham should definitely give Zinchencko a shot.

Pep has a track record of using youngsters in his squad but the Ukrainian does not seem to have impressed him enough, making a move away from the club the best step ahead for him. Do you think Zinchenko will be a loss for City?

https://the4thofficial.net/2018/07/21-yo-manchester-city-fullback-wanted-by-fulham-and-wolves-should-pep-let-him-go/

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:23:43 AM

"Announce striker", "Where's Seri?" – These Fulham fans react to club's 0-0 draw vs Reading + Match Report

Match Report: Fulham 0-0 Reading

Fulham were held to a 0-0 draw by EFL Championship side Reading in their second pre-season friendly against Aldershot Town on Saturday afternoon.

Manager Slavisa Jokanovic made four changes to the team that beat Crawley Town 4-2 the previous weekend as Moritz Jenz, Matt O'Riley, Mattias Kait and Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson made way for Tim Ream, Neeskens Kebano, Tom Cairney and new signing Maxime Le Marchand.

However, the Cottagers were forced into a change just 12 minutes into the game, with Ream being forced from the field of play following a cut to the head, to be replaced by Steven Sessesgnon, with Le Marchand shifting from left-back to the heart of the defence.

Fulham stopper Marek Rodak was forced into a tremendous save in the 15th minute when Andy Yiadom got a low effort away, and a quick shot off the rebound then forced a goal-line clearance from full-back Cyrus Chrisite.

Soon after, Yakou Meite broke free down the middle for the Royals but Christie showed an impressive turn of pace to get back and make a perfectly timed tackle on the edge of the Fulham box, relieving the danger.

Ryan Sessegnon showed some nice footwork to cause troubles to the Reading defence close to the half-hour mark but his right-footed shot was stopped by a Liam Moore clearance. Five minutes later, Aboubakar Kamara got on the end of Sessegnon's cross but the ball trickled wide for a goal-kick.

A poor pass from Tiago Illori saw Kamara capitalise and tee captain Cairney up but the Scotsman failed to test Vito Mannone in the Reading goal. Close to the half-time, the Royals threatened again, with Meite being left one-on-one with Rodak but the Fulham keeper made another assured stop to keep the score intact.

Fulham made two changes at the break, with Jenz and Ibrahima Cisse replacing Le Marchand and Stefan Johansen. They started to show bright sparks in the attack, with Kebano setting Ryan Sessegnon free through the middle. But the latter's shot took a deflection and hit the side-netting six minutes after the break.

Five minutes later, Kebano was again involved, as he had an effort blocked by Mannone after a brilliant counter, and Luca de la Torre failed to keep his attempt down from the rebound.

Jokanovic made a host of changes at the hour-mark with Marcelo Djalo, Marlon Fossey, O'Riley, Kait, Thorsteinsson, Tyrese Francois and Fonte replacing Denis Odoi, Christie, Cairney, de la Torre, Kebano, Kamara and Ryan Sessegnon. Reading also rung in a horde of substitutions at the same time.

Fulham had another chance seven minutes later when Jenz's header from an O'Riley corner drifted just wide before Cissé forced Mannone into an unexpected save in the 75th minute. Pelle Clement fired for the Royals in the last ten minutes, while Fonte also saw his effort miss by inches, as full-time arrived.

There were a lot of positives from the Cottagers' performance, as they embark on a trip to France on Monday to continue their preparations for next season.

https://soccersouls.com/2018/07/15/announce-striker-wheres-seri-these-fulham-react-to-clubs-0-0-draw-vs-reading-match-report/

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:26:02 AM

Fulham is making money moves as they bid for Zinchenko
I really wish Newcastle United would get in on this.

Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

I'm a fan of young midfielders who are underused at top Premier League clubs. It means that they're green, ready to prove themselves, and are eager to learn from a manager who gives — insert bad word here — about their development as top players.

Oleksandr Zinchenko is one of those players. He's a talented midfielder who can be used on the wing, as well as a defensive wingback. He's versatile, young, and dying for first-team football. And for only £16m or thereabout, Newcastle could find itself a future number 10 worth talking about.

Well with Isaac Hayden and Mikel Merino out of the picture, it would appear that Newcastle United has an opening for a young talented midfielder with Zinchenko's pedigree.

At this current point in time, Wolverhampton has proven very keen on signing the young Ukrainian bidding around £16m to lure him away from Manchester City. But they're not the only ones making money moves. Fulham, once again, has proven that they're ready to spend big money.

That's right. That Fulham. The one who made a double swoop for players from Nice. The one prepared to make a £20m bid for Aleksandar Mitrovic from Newcastle United. AND NOW THE TEAM WILLING TO SPEND £16M ON OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO FROM MANCHESTER CITY.

And all I keep thinking is: why? Why doesn't Newcastle United decide to actually get in on this action? Why doesn't the club think about the great deal that they'd be getting from this move? Zinchenko at £16m is not only a steal, but it's the greatest investment for the future of the club. With the loss of promising youngsters like Hayden and Merino, the club is need of bringing in another permanent deal to prepare for the future. Loan deals don't do that. Signing Ki from Swansea was a good move for quality depth, but a club without young players to lean on is a club that isn't prepared for the future.

Zinchenko could be that future. Kenedy will be the future (if signed permanently at the end of this deal). It's a lack of moves like these that are going to be the downfall of Newcastle United. It's a lack moves like these that will drive Rafa Benitez away. We'll be fine next season, I'm sure of it. But three, four years down the line? We'll be relegated again if this continues.

https://cominghomenewcastle.sbnation.com/2018/7/15/17557694/fulham-is-making-money-moves-as-they-bid-for-zinchenko

WhiteJC · July 15, 2018, 08:41:44 AM

Lost Treasures

When moving offices last week, the media team unearthed a treasure trove of various Fulham artefacts, from player contracts dating back to the 1940s, to a host of weird and wonderful photographs from years gone by...

Hugh Grant's headshots ahead of his appearance in Fultime magazine.

And some action shots from the Hollywood actor and Fulham fan on the hallowed turf at Craven Cottage.

Ronnie Rooke's actual contract from May 1946, signed by himself and manager Jack Peart, worth £7.10 a week. Rooke left Fulham to join Arsenal later that year - a decision that was so unpopular with the Whites faithful that Peart advised Arsenal manager Tom Whittaker to park his car a few streets away from Craven Cottage, to avoid fans turning it over.

A Cottage forecourt view of the boys heading out of the tunnel for a match against a Liverpool side - that included future Fulham captain Danny Murphy - in March 2002.

Why wouldn't the old club store have a motorbike in it...?!

The signatures of the First Team squad, believed to be from the late 1940s.

Ahh, the Cravenettes...

Kevin Keegan, Paul Bracewell and Peter Beardsley celebrate a new partnership with some spades.

A slightly haunting painting of the 1996/97 promotion side.

Bobby Moore relaxes in a changing room he knows well, ahead of Fulham FA Cup Final appearance.

A bit of downtime for Chris Coleman and Steve Kean.

In case you were ever wondering how Craven of Cottage became Sir Craven.

One would expect better behaviour from a knight of the realm, though...

Kit Symons and his daughter Milly round his house ahead of a Fultime shoot. It's unclear whether or not Kit insisted on every family member wearing stripes.

The 1997/98 squad pose for the unfortunately named D-Party.

Diddy David Hamilton with a bigger smile than usual when interviewing Kirsty Gallagher.

A fixture list card from the 1980/81 season. Apparently the owner got bored of filling in the scores by mid-November.

Fans say their goodbyes to Craven Cottage at the final game of the 2001/02 season. Thankfully we were back home after a couple of years.

John Motson rocking a classic away strip from the 1990s under the Cottage Gates.

Steve Finnan helps out with the Fulham Flutter.

We have no idea what context this Keith Allen photo was taken in.

Not sure what Simon Morgan had done that resulted in him having to do his own laundry.

A Fulham heartthrob, pictured here with Hugh Grant.

Journalists using state of the art technology in the Cottage press box.

Dirk Lehmann loving life as he tries to escape the attentions of Bristol Rovers' Ian Holloway at a corner.

Mark Maunders gets things ready for a First Team photoshoot at our old Bank of England Training Ground.

Patience seems to be wearing thin after a while though...

Taken a few months after he left Fulham, here Ronnie Rooke takes a coaching session at a Youth College in Camberwell.

Geoff Horsfield either gives or receives a wad of cash, including a very worn £5 note.

I know back in the day that players had to chip in more, but this is different gravy...

The 1998/99 squad pose in the national shirt of their respective countries. Looks like we were unable to get our hands on a Belgium or France jersey for Philippe Albert and François Keller.

Mohamed Al Fayed chats to a young supporter.

Karl-Heinz Riedle poses with a couple of players from the other team in Fulham at the launch of a new website, which sadly hasn't lasted the test of time.

The Kings Head pub making good use of one of our XXXXXXXL shirts.

The lads out on a musical themed fancy dress night out. Sean Davis still has those glasses.

Two young fans pose outside 'The Black and White Shop', which looked to predominantly stock teddy bears and ribbons.

The tactics board ahead of a meeting with Tottenham Hotspur. Sadly it didn't go to plan as we ended up slipping to a 2-0 loss.

http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/july/15/lost-treasures

Jims Dentist · July 15, 2018, 07:11:22 PM

Brilliant photos!!

kiwian · July 16, 2018, 06:07:52 AM

The captions weren't bad either, who is the other woman in the photo of Diddy and Kirsty? Had a very familiar hairstyle.

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Sunday Fulham Stuff (15/07/18)...