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Thursday Fulham Stuff (02/08/18)...

Started by WhiteJC, August 02, 2018, 06:53:48 AM

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WhiteJC

 
Fulham expected to increase offer for Southampton's Matt Targett

Fulham are expected to come back with an increased offer for Matt Targett and force Saints to consider cashing in on their academy product to help fund another potential incoming.

With the transfer window closing a week tomorrow and Saints needing to sell before they can buy, interest in a player on the fringes of the first team is certainly tempting for Saints.

The Daily Echo understands that Fulham made an offer for Targett early in the window but have yet to come back with a second bid.

However, the noises now coming out of Craven Cottage, where Targett spent the second half of last season on loan as the club fought their way into the Premier League, indicate another bid is likely to arrive soon.

Saints are believed to be holding out for £15m, with Fulham said to be valuing him at around £10m, though it is possible a compromise can be struck with 22-year-old Targett understandably keen to get regular first team football.

Les Reed will want to try and achieve the maximum possible value for Targett with Saints needing to sell players before they can fund a further transfer move this summer.

Ideally, Saints would like to bring in another attacking player before the big kick-off against Burnley, but to get somebody who could make a difference will likely cost them a sizeable fee as well as wages.

That would mean having to move on a couple of players.

Targett could be one of them with Fraser Forster also lined up for a possible loan move to Burnley, which would generate a small fee and remove at least some of his wages off the payroll for the season.

There has also been interest in a few of Saints' other fringe and younger players, several of whom are not expected to feature regularly under Mark Hughes, and it could be that the club cash in to able to trade in the market.

Targett joined the Saints academy aged just eight and rose through the ranks.

He made his first team debut in 2014 but has only played in fits and starts.

Ryan Bertrand's form has limited him to just 42 appearances over the past four seasons and with the former Chelsea man expected to remain at St Mary's this summer it leaves Targett again looking at the possibility of playing second fiddle in what may well prove to be a wing back position this time out.

Targett, who started out as a Scotland youth international before switching to England, played 21 times for Fulham after joining them in January, including the play-off final against Aston Villa at Wembley.

Some of the academy staff who worked with Targett as a youngster are also at Fulham, including Huw Jennings and Malcolm Elias, as well as Steve Wigley.



http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/16388925.fulham-expected-to-increase-offer-for-southamptons-matt-targett/?ref=rss

WhiteJC

 
Fulham hoping to reach deal with Southampton over Matt Targett transfer

The Whites are hopeful that they'll be able to secure the left back's services before the transfer window deadline next week

Fulham are hoping to reach a compromise with Southampton over a potential deal for Matt Targett.

The 22-year-old spent half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage and helped the side gain promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs, where they beat Aston Villa 1-0 at Wembley.

He slotted into the left back spot and into Fulham's side with ease, with his attacking style of play complimenting the style that Slavisa Jokanovic's team play and Tony Khan has been trying to bring him back to west London during this transfer window.

Time is of the essence with just eight days left, but with the Aleksandar Mitrovic deal done and Alfie Mawson to complete his move soon, Targett will now become the priority as Fulham look to bring in a left back ahead of the deadline.

There was a bid rejected earlier on in the window, but the Daily Echo report that no second bid has been made and that Southampton value their man at £15million.

The Whites' bid was far lower than that earlier on in the window, and they are now hoping to reach a compromise with the south coast club over Targett, who may find himself playing second string to Ryan Bertrand this season once more.

It was that lack of game time that saw Targett loaned out to Fulham, where he made 21 appearances over the course of half the season as the Whites were promoted via Wembley.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Southampton had very little contact with him whilst he was at Fulham, with Targett telling Football.London after the victory at Sheffield Wednesday that no one from his parent club had been to watch him or speak about his loan spell.

He's spent pre-season with Southampton this summer, but with transfer deadline day looming in eight days, Fulham are hopeful of reaching a compromise with the Saints for his signature.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-hoping-reach-deal-southampton-14976241

WhiteJC

 
Kurt Zouma exactly the kind of signing Fulham desperately need right now

Fulham's excellent business in the transfer window has undoubtedly boosted their chances of survival next year.

The Cottagers ended their four-year absence from the Premier League by defeating Aston Villa in the play-off final. Slavisa Jokanovic looks set to keep hold of star players Tom Cairney, who penned a new contract, and Ryan Sessegnon despite interest from Manchester United and Tottenham. Fulham will be hoping for a long, successful spell in England's top division.

Slavisa Jokanovic has wasted no time in strengthening his squad ahead of a gruelling season. Ivorian midfielder, Jean Michael Seri, completed a £27m move to Craven Cottage – a coup considering Arsenal and Chelsea both chased the former Nice man. The Serb also added Fabri and Maxime le Marchand to his squad before landing Andre Schurrle on loan from Borussia Dortmund.

To consider their superb business, Fulham should try to sign Chelsea outcast – Kurt Zouma. According to reports, the defender has turned down the advances of Newcastle with Turkish side Fenerbache interested in bringing him to Turkey.

Valued at £13.5m by Transfermarkt, the Frenchman has been unable to break into the first-team at Stamford Bridge since joining from Saint-Etienne 2014. He spent last season on loan at Stoke City where he made 34 appearances with an average rating of 7.12 according to WhoScored.

Primarily a centre-back, Zouma is also comfortable at right-back. The 23-year-old is a colossal defender – strong in the tackle and excellent in the air. His time at Chelsea has been a disaster but regular playing time at Craven Cottage could be just what he needs to kickstart his career.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham/kurt-zouma-exactly-the-kind-of-signing-fulham-desperately-need-right-now/


WhiteJC


Fulham: Is Alfie Mawson the final piece of the puzzle?
As the final formalities are completed, we look at whether the defender is the last necessary recruit for the Cottagers?

After a deserved return to the top-flight via the second tier play-offs, attention quickly turned to Fulham's capability to survive in the Premier League. Any side that wins promotion from the Championship faces an immediate inquest into their top table credentials and Fulham were no exception.

In a squad that possesses young and exciting talent, the options for the future in West London aren't lacking, but the present day Premier League is no experiment ground.

Proven ability and experience was lacking though the Cottagers' board have made strides in this window to prevent an immediate return to the second flight. But is Alfie Mawson the final part of the plan?

Gaps filled, holes plugged
The difference in quality between the Championship and Premier League is vast – just ask any of the multitude of players who can't quite make that step up. Not strengthening or adjusting to life in the top-flight after winning promotion from the Championship is a dangerous tactic, and it's a tactic that Fulham appear unwilling to try.

The ability, quality and talent of a Championship-level Fulham is impressive, but after falling just short of a play-off spot after a late charge the season before last, the Cottagers began the previous season slowly.

An incredible run, though, from Christmas to the end of April saw Slavisa Jokanovic's team go unbeaten in 23 games.

Aleksandar Mitrovic played a big part in their second-half charge, scoring 12 goals in the 17 league games in which he featured. The Serbian was only outscored by Ryan Sessegnon though the latter played in nearly three times as many games.

Fulham have ensured they answered any goal scoring worries by keeping hold of Mitrovic, signing him on a permanent deal from Newcastle United.

Jokanovic was more concerned about the durability and strength in his midfield and was prepared to break his club's transfer record to gain the services of Jean Michael Seri from Ligue 1's Nice.

In goal, the experienced Fabri was drafted in from Turkish side Besiktas in a cut-price deal, and the Spaniard will rival Marcus Bettinelli for the number one shirt at Craven Cottage. Jokanovic has also brought in Premier League-experienced Andre Schurrle from Borussia Dortmund to bolster his attacking midfield options.

The Fulham backroom team knew where they were short, and they've bought well to fill the holes.

Where will Mawson fit in?
A partnership of Denis Odoi and Tim Ream at the heart of Fulham's defence played a large role in their impressive post-Christmas charge up the table.

Jokanovic also had versatile Chelsea loanee Tomas Kalas at his disposal, who also featured heavily throughout the season. The Czech international has since returned to Stamford Bridge after his most recent deal expired.

Maxime Le Marchand arrived at Craven Cottage on the same day as OGC Nice club mate Seri and the Frenchman is a centre half by trade, helping his former team to an eighth-place finish last time out.

Le Marchand, though, was often deployed on the left-hand side of defence. This may be what Jokanovic has in mind for him, too, as Ryan Sessegnon looks to play a more attacking role in the upcoming campaign.

Mawson will cost the west Londoners up to a reported £20 million, and will surely go straight into the starting XI. His arrival will probably mean bad news for either Odoi or Ream, with one of the promotion-winning pair making way to fit the new signing in.

What can Mawson bring to Fulham?
The 24-year-old hasn't been on the Premier League scene long, but having featured heavily in the last two campaigns for Swansea City, his fast-growing experience will help his new team mates adjust to life in the top tier.

After making his top-flight debut in October 2016, Mawson played 65 times for the Swans. He featured in every single league fixture last season and was a shining light for the Welsh side, despite being unable to save them from relegation.

Swansea struggled for most of the 2017/18 season, and having played such a big part in it, Mawson will be familiar with the level of mental strength needed to be in a lengthy basement battle.

Tim Ream has played in the Premier League before with Bolton Wanderers, and he too knows what it feels like to be relegated, so the potential pairing of the two can provide the Fulham defence with the right attitude having gone through negative experiences.

Ability in the air is a plus for any side. During his time in south Wales, Mawson made 221 headed clearances. He's also a threat at the other end of the pitch, having scored six goals in two seasons, three of which were headed strikes.

Mawson will provide a threat in the air, and he – combined with the aerial ability of Mitrovic – will make Fulham a danger from set-pieces. In 65 games, the Englishman has been cautioned only four times and discipline will provide an example for others to follow in the Fulham defence.

Still only 24, and two Premier League seasons into his career, Mawson still has a lot to prove. His transfer will benefit both player and club, but whether he is the final arrival in west London remains to be seen.



https://realsport101.com/news/sports/football/fulham-is-alfie-mawson-the-final-piece-of-the-puzzle/

WhiteJC

 
Fulham Season Preview: Can Cottagers beat the drop?

Fulham started the 2017/18 season slowly, but picked up their form at just the right time to nail down a playoff place. The Cottagers secured their Premier League spot with a 1-0 playoff final win over Aston Villa back in May and they have wasted no time in strengthening in their quest to consolidate a Premier League spot. After a four-year hiatus from England's top tier, Fulham will be confident of staving off relegation this time around.

One to Watch - Tom Cairney

Fulham have a number of players to keep an eye and while there has been plenty of focus on Ryan Sessegnon, Tom Cairney is key cog in this XI. Everything goes through the Scotland international in the middle of the park and having made just 10 Premier League appearances during his last stint in England's top tier, he'll be keen to make up for lost time. The 27-year-old scored six and assisted five in the Championship last season and Fulham fans will be looking for him to make the step up this time around.

Best Signing - Jean Michael Seri

While Fulham have secured the services of Andre Schurrle, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Maxime Le Marchand, Jean Michael Seri is the stand out capture at Craven Cottage. The Ivorian, who has previously been courted by Barcelona, Arsenal and Chelsea, is one of the coups of the campaign with Seri establishing himself as one of the best ball-playing midfielders in Europe during his time in Nice. Fulham fans have every reason to be excited about his arrival and he'll look to quickly establish himself as a midfield lynchpin in Slavisa Jokanovic's 4-3-3 setup

Area of Weakness

One of the unheralded stars of Fulham's successful promotion campaign was Matt Targett, with the left-back impressing during his loan stint from Southampton. The west London side have been linked with a permanent move for the Saints ace, while Celtic's Kieran Tierney is also a rumoured target for the capital outfit. Either way, Fulham need to sign a left-back before the close of the transfer window. Failure to do so would see either Le Marchand feature here in defence or Sessegnon drop back into left-back, robbing them of one of their key attacking threats.

Prediction / Best Bet

Fulham have tied Sessegnon down to a new deal, while star forward Mitrovic has returned on a permanent deal. With Seri, Le Marchand and Schurrle also making the move to London, and Targett and Alfie Mawson set to follow suit, Jokanovic has assembled a squad more than capable of staving off the drop and then some. If they can land a left-back, which remains a priority, then a top half finish shouldn't be ruled out, with Fulham out at 7s to finish in the top-10 in the coming campaign.




https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/4ZhiCawJ2kWKzT_Q2vc5Cg/Show/Fulham-Season-Preview-Can-Cottagers-beat-the-drop-

WhiteJC

 
Midfielder 'interested' in Fulham project, clubs have started talks, heading in right direction

According to Manu Lonjon, Fulham's attempts to sign Josuha Guilavogui from Wolfsburg are heading in the right direction.

Taking to Twitter to reveal the information, the reliable Yahoo! Sport journalist explained the defensive midfielder liked the project Fulham had to offer.

Furthermore, Lonjon stated the Cottagers and Wolfsburg had now opened talks for the 27-year-old.

This came after German website Sportbuzzer claimed Fulham were interested in signing the defensive midfielder, having made a salary proposal, which is yet to be agreed with the player.

The newly promoted Premier League club were said to be 'keen' on the France international, which was confirmed by the Bundesliga outfit's sporting director, Jörg Schmadtke.

Bruno Labbadia's side are in the market to allow a few of their players leave the Volkswagen Arena as they look to reduce the squad, but they want to retain the former Atletico Madrid man.

Guilavogui had a release clause close to €20m in his contract and could have left the club for that price this summer.

However, the deadline to sign him for that price has already passed, meaning the Cottagers need to agree a fee first if they want to bring the midfielder to Craven Cottage.

"Thanks to a clause in the contract (almost 20 million euros), Guilavogui could have left VfL this summer, but the deadline for this clause has passed," Schmadtke said.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/midfielder-interested-fulham-project-clubs-started-talks-heading-right-direction/


WhiteJC

 
U23s: Fulham 2-1 Brighton

Fulham fought back from a goal down in their friendly to beat Brighton 2-1, with Cameron Thompson equalising and a stunning winner from Matt O'Riley in the second half.

It was a quick start from the Whites, in the first minute Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson cut onto his favoured right foot inside the area but his shot was charged down by a centre back.

Five minutes later, Brighton had their first clear chance of the match. The Seagulls turned the ball over in midfield and attacked down the left, the number 10 chose to try bend a shot for the top corner from 20-yards out but he missed the mark.

20 minutes into the match and Fulham were looking the stronger of the teams. The Whites won several set pieces which Thorsteinsson whipped in but the Brighton defence was holding.

Cody Drameh was effective down the right, he sent a fantastic ball in for Cauley Woodrow who headed on target, however the 'keeper saved.

The Trialist fired from 25-yards out minutes later, the keeper was forced into a diving save, knocking the ball back into play, he had a similar effort later on.

Tayo Edun rifled the rebound back at goal, missing the right post by inches.

After a water break the Whites were back at it. Thorsteinsson curled a cracking ball into the box for Woodrow, the forward headed just the wrong side of the post.

Half an hour in and Drameh burnt past the left back again, he got to the by-line and pulled the ball back for Thorsteinsson. He miss-timed his run and just missed the ball on the 6-yard line.

34 minutes into the match and Magnus Norman was needed, in a one on one he sprinted to the edge of the area and made a diving save to keep the match level.

The second half started more end to end than the first. Brighton attacked down the right, the winger was able to get a strong shot away but Norman made it stick in his gloves.

He then distributed quickly for the Whites to break, Thorsteinsson curled a ball to the newly introduced Cameron Thompson, he headed downwards and was only denied by a very good save.

In the 52nd minute, Edun decided to shoot from long distance. A decent effort dipped viciously, the keeper was needed to palm the ball over the bar.

On the hour mark the Brighton midfielder noticed Ashby-Hammond off his line and attempted to chip him, the keeper was able to get back with his hands on the ball.

The deadlock was finally broken by Brighton in the 70th minute. The right winger had time and space to float a ball towards the back post, the Seagull's striker jumped up and headed past Ashby-Hammond to make it 1-0.

Fulham pressed hard for an equaliser and found one seven minutes later. After a succession of corners, one was cleared to Mundle-Smith. He spread the ball out wide to O'Riley who whipped a cross into the box.

Thompson did well with his back to goal to hold off the defender, turn, and fire into the bottom left corner to make it 1-1.

With the wind in their sails the Whites managed to take the lead. Drameh put a dangerous ball into the box, Brighton cleared to O'Riley.

25-yards from goal he shot a stonking effort that flew into the top right corner, a worthy winner to the pre-season friendly.

Fulham had one more chance in the match as Sylvester Jasper rattled the left post, the Whites held onto the lead and finished the match as 2-1 winners.

Fulham line up: Norman (52' Ashby-Hammond), Mundle-Smith, Atkinson, Opoku (58' Jenz), Drameh, Edun (55' O'Riley), Kait (70' Carvalho), Thorsteinsson (70' Jasper) , Francois, Trialist (46' Thompson), Woodrow (65' Harris).



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/august/01/u23s-fulham-2-1-brighton

WhiteJC

 
Wagner says 'no chance' Huddersfield can aim higher, Wolves & Fulham money 'beyond imagination'

David Wagner has been speaking to SportBild and has been frank with the German magazine about how difficult Huddersfield Town's task is ahead of the new season.

In their first season in the Premier League, the Terriers finished in 16th place, four points clear of the relegation places.

Given that achievement, SportBild asked Wagner if there'll be more to the coming campaign than simply trying to avoid relegation.

Starting off his answer by saying "No chance" in English, the Huddersfield manager reverted to German and explained: "Because the promoted teams Fulham and Wolves have financial means that are beyond our imagination. We still have the lowest budget, but the gap to the club with the second least funds, Brighton, has become bigger. The endeavour is difficult, but also exciting. If we manage to restore the energy and euphoria in the city, the stadium and the club, then we can do it."

Wagner is well aware of the big task ahead of him and clearly feels that those coming up from the Championship this season, at least Fulham and Wolves, are better prepared than those who have come before them.

Asked who will be the surprise of the Premier League this season, he was again clear: "Wolverhampton. They have so much money. As new signings, they have just got two Portuguese national team players."

Wolves getting Rui Patricio and Joao Moutinho, among other recruits this summer, has clearly left a mark. At Fulham they've managed to get players including Jean Michaël Seri, Andre Schurrle and Maxime Le Marchand.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/wagner-says-no-chance-huddersfield-can-aim-higher-wolves-fulham-money-beyond-imagination/

WhiteJC

 
Fulham And Crystal Palace Amongst Possible Destinations For Wantaway English Veteran



Joe Hart had travelled to the US with Manchester City for their pre-season tour but it is quite clear that his future lies away from Manchester. The 31-year-old has spent the last two seasons on loan spells at Torino and West Ham United.

Hart's errors at the back cost him his place in the West Ham team and due to lack of game-time, he was also left out of the England squad for the World Cup in Russia.

And as per a recent report, Manchester City and Pep Guardiola want to help the Englishman revive his career and are willing to lower their asking price which stands at £5m.

Hart had an illustrious career with Manchester City before Pep Guardiola came in to take charge. His decision to axe the Englishman from the team came as a surprise to many. Hart had won four Premier League Golden Gloves in the period of 2011 to 2015.

We look at three clubs that are in need to sign a goalkeeper.

FULHAM

The newly-promoted Premier League team has done exceptionally well in this transfer window by signing a number of quality players. Jean Seri, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Andre Schurrle joined The Whites and they were also able to hold onto their sensational fullback, Ryan Sessegnon.

Fulham is a bit shallow in the goalkeeping position with only Marcus Bettinelli and Fabri as options. Joe Hart's arrival will not only bring on board the quality and experience but also a strong presence in the dressing room.

Most Fulham players will be playing on such a grand stage for the first time and Hart's experience could help them to adjust and survive in the league.

NEWCASTLE UNITED

The Magpies have four goalkeepers in their squad but it isn't about the numbers, it's about the quality. Martin Dubravka is expected to be the first choice goalkeeper for Rafa Benitez after making a permanent move this summer. He did an incredible job after joining on loan in January and helped the club finish in a respectable 10th place.

Joe Hart is likely to attract a nominal fee and bringing in such an experienced presence might be a smart move with an eye on the future as well.

CRYSTAL PALACE

With Julian Speroni turning 39 this year, Wayne Hennessey seems to be the only goalkeeper in the squad Roy Hodgson can rely on. Vicente Guaita was signed to compete for the spot but he has played second fiddle to Hennessey and is unlikely to play a big role. The move for Joe Hart will make complete sense for the Eagles as Hodgson looks for leaders in the team.

They have a strong backline consisting of Mamadou Sakho, Scott Dann and Patrick Van Aanholt. Addition of a quality goalkeeper like Joe Hart will offer them more security at the back and hence Hart is a player Roy can definitely consider signing.



https://madaboutepl.net/2018/08/three-clubs-who-should-make-a-move-for-joe-hart/


WhiteJC

 
Fulham 0-1 Sampdoria player ratings: Marlon Fossey impresses in penultimate friendly

A single goal meant that Fulham were beaten by the Italian side - here's how we rated the team

A single Gaston Ramirez wonderstrike meant that Fulham were beaten 1-0 by Sampdoria at Aldershot Town's EBB Stadium this evening.

The first half had very little in terms of chances, but it was Ibrahima Cisse who came closest for Fulham when he unleashed a drive from the edge of the box that was inches from the top corner.

The second half continued in the same vein of form, with very few chances between the two sides despite Fulham have the majority of the ball at Aldershot.

But it was the Italian side who took the lead through Gaston Ramirez, who collected Tim Ream's poor pass to unleash the ball into the top corner.

Here's how we rated the side:

Fabri - 6

His kicking was a bit erratic in the first and put his defenders under undue stress. Showed some good reading of the game, however, and was quick off his line a number of times.

Marlon Fossey - 8

Showed some very nice early touches to beat his men down the flanks. Was probably Fulham's best player and there's a real decision to be made about what Jokanovic does with the teenager this season.

Good awareness from the Frenchman this evening, making sure he was in the right place at the right time to snuff out Sampdoria in the first half.

Steven Sessegnon - 7

Was a decent outlet on the left, an unfamiliar position for the youngster but he did himself no harm in what was a confident performance.

Kevin McDonald - 6

Assured performance in the anchor role from McDonald who did well to plug the gap and marshal Sampdoria's attacking midfielders.

Ibrahima Cisse - 6

Got on the ball in the first half and tried to prove a point ahead of the new season. Played fairly well, although he blew hot and cold during the 90 minutes.


Fulham's Marlon Fossey during the pre-season friendly match against Sampdoria. (Image: Daniel Hambury/PA Wire)

Tom Cairney - 6

Did reasonably well in midfield and had a few nice touches without ever really raising the bar. Was subbed at half time.

Luca de la Torre - 6

Saw a lot of the ball early on but couldn't quite sort his feet out to get shots away. Got on the ball but struggled when breaking into the box.

Rui Fonte - 5

Found the game hard to get into during his time on the pitch, although he showed glimpses of promises in between the lines.

Andre Schurrle - 7

Was on the ball a lot in the first half and looked the main man for Fulham, drifting from left across the midfield and controlling play.
Subs:

Stefan Johansen - 5

Had a decent game after coming on, getting on the ball and trying to play the full backs in.

Jean-Michael Seri - 6

Added a bit of coolness in the Fulham midfield, showing some good vision and decent touches after coming on. Also looked good in the challenge too.

Aleksandar Mitrovic - 5

Didn't see too much of the football after coming on as he adjusted to pre-season.

Neeskens Kebano - 6

Looked sharp again when coming on, making things happen when he was on the ball.

Ryan Sessegnon - 5

Decent performance but didn't do too much after coming on with about 20 minutes left in the tie.

Cyrus Christie - 5

Wasn't really able to get his attacking game going after coming on, but did okay defensively.

Aboubakar Kamara - 5

Showed some nice touches when coming on but didn't do too much of note.

Tim Ream - 5

Once again, the USA international looked confident on the ball in defence and did reasonably well, but gave away the ball cheaply for Sampdoria's goal.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-1-0-sampdoria-player-14979562

WhiteJC

 
Premier League: Fulham keeping Mitrovic shows club's ambitions

Fulham has completed the signing of Aleksandar Mitrović for an undisclosed fee from Premier League rivals Newcastle United. His signing and others make Fulham competitive.

After signing on loan seconds before the deadline in the January transfer window, Mitrović helped Fulham achieve Premier League promotion. Mitrović is now "Happy and Proud" to make Craven Cottage his permanent home.

Since joining the Whites in January, "Mitro" was "on fire", terrifying defences all through the Championship with 12 goals in 17 starts. He had a chequered history in the black and white stripes of Newcastle United, with fans often feeling frustrated when he was left out, as his goal threat is evident for everyone with eyes.

But with a team fighting for promotion rather than against relegation, Mitrović found favor. Tony Khan, the Director of Football at Fulham, admitted at the promotion party at Wembley after Fulham's playoff success, that he always had the desire to make the move permanent.

The New Crew at Craven Cottage

Mitrović rejoins the ranks of a fresh set of faces at Fulham as they prepare for life in The Top Flight. Faces which suggest the future is as bright as the white that Fulham plays in. Jean Michel Seri, who in the past has had rumored moves to Barça, has been a great capture for the newly promoted side. His Nice team-mate, Maxime le Marchand will also bolster the ranks.

Fulham's last foray into the first tier of English football had a French heartbeat, with stars like Louis Saha and Steed Malbranque. They appear to be looking across the English Channel once again to keep them afloat in the Premier League.

However, for me, the best signing they've made is actually André Schürrle. Not only has he got a World Cup Winners' Medal to his name, but a Premier League Winners' medal and proven goalscoring experience for Chelsea. Schürrle will be out to prove that given starting chances, he can really make an impact.

Fulham's Chances After Transfers

Sometimes clubs come up and don't invest much in their playing staff. Sometimes that works, as Burnley, Bournemouth, and Brighton can attest to. Sometimes it backfires (looking at you Derby County!). Sometimes, teams come up and spend a lot of money to try and survive and that doesn't always go to plan either.



https://thetopflight.com/2018/08/01/premier-league-fulham-keeping-mitrovic-shows-clubs-ambitions/

WhiteJC

 
Sampdoria sneak past Fulham

Fulham's preparations for their Premier League return suffered a setback tonight after they were beaten by Serie A side Sampbdoria at Aldershot when a Fabri howler was punished by a fine finish from Gaston Ramirez.

The Spanish goalkeeper, a summer signing from Besiktas, had little to do all evening but dallied in clearing the ball from his six-yard box late on, playing a couple of short passes and then played Ibrahima Cisse into trouble on the edge of the Fulham penalty area and the former Southampton midfielder Ramirez curled home a terrific strike from just outside the box. It was unfortunate way for an evening of experimentation to end for Slavisa Jokanovic, whose side where more than a match for their Italian opponents, and a youthful starting eleven probably edged the first half.

Jokanovic opted to pair Marlon Fossey and Steven Sessegnon, who are probably competing to be the back up to Cyrus Christie at right back this season, on opposite sides of the back four and both did not look out of place in their most strenuous pre-season test to date. Fossey was full of running down the right flank, often overlapping to good effect, whilst Sessegnon – in the slightly less familiar left back role that was later filled by his twin brother Ryan – delivered a creditable performance. Most of Fulham's spark came through the lively Andre Schurrle, who darted in dangerously from the right flank, in a sparky display.

The Whites enjoyed most of the early possession but struggled for a cutting edge with Rui Fonte largely anonymous up front. Ibrahima Cisse, who offered a nudge to his manager with a strong display in front of the back four, came closest to scoring of anybody in the first half, sending two rising drives from outside the box fractionally over the Sampdoria crossbar. Schurrle showed a couple of great touches to find Sessegnon in an advanced position down the left but the full back's cross was volleyed clear by Jakub Jantko. The first half was also notable for an eye-catching cameo from American youngster Luca de la Torre, who threatened down the Fulham right.

Sampdoria fleeting served notice of their attacking intent. Maxime Le Marchand did well to deal with a dangerous cross from Ramirez midway through the first period and forward Gianluca Caprari might have given the visitors the lead but his curling effort from the edge of the box flew fractionally wide of Fabri's far post. The Italians improved after the break almost taking the lead when Fabri scrambled across his goal-line to push out an Omar Colley header from a corner and they kept the ball much more efficiently throughout the second 45 minutes.

Marlon Fossey almost provided the opener for Fulham after a bright run and low cross down the right flank forced Dennis Praet to intervene but the Belgian defender almost prodded the ball past his own goalkeeper. As it happened, the loose ball flashed across the six-yard box, past the recently introduced Aleksandar Mitrovic and away to safety. Sampdoria should have hit the front with twenty minutes to go when Jankto somehow managed to head an inviting cross from Jacopo Sala wide at the far post instead of into the bottom corner.

Then came Fabri's fatal mistake. The goalkeeper invited pressure on the Fulham back line by playing a couple of dangerous passes to Denis Odoi at incredibly acute angles and once he had played Cisse into a bit of difficulty, the blue Samp shirts swarmed all over to win the ball back. Ramirez's strike was a thing of beauty – bending viciously on its way into the top corner – and was worthy of winning any game. Fulham rallied and might have found an equaliser when Jean-Michael Seri's sumptuous ball over the top unlocked the Sampdoria defence but Aboubakar Kamara's attempt at a finish at the far post was desperate and the ball flew behind for a goal kick.

Jokanovic's side finish their pre-season schedule at home to Celta Vigo at Craven Cottage on Saturday before opening their Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace a week later. The Serbian head coach still has a few conundrums to solve before picking his starting eleven to face Roy Hodgson's side, but this was a useful workout against strong opposition.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Fabri; Fossey (Christie 73), S. Sessegnon (R. Sessegnon 73), Odoi, Le Marchand (Ream 62); Cisse, McDonald (Seri 62), Cairney (Johansen 45); de la Torre (Kamara 73), Schurrle (Kebano 62), Fonte (Mitrovic 62). Sub (not used): T. Ashby-Hammond.

SAMPDORIA (4-3-1-2): Audero (Belec 72); Sala (Bereszynski 72), Murru (Tavares 72), Andersen (Leverbe 88), Colley (Ferrari 63); Barreto (Linetty 63), Praet, Jankto (Verre 78); Ramirez (Rolando 88); Kownacki (Stijepovic 78), Caprati (Defrel 63).

BOOKED: Jankto.

GOAL: Ramirez (79).



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/08/sampdoria-sneak-past-fulham/


WhiteJC

 
Fulham should bin reported interest in Tottenham youngster Josh Onomah

Fulham should forget about reported interest in Tottenham youngster Josh Onomah.

Fulham are reportedly interested in Tottenham midfielder Josh Onomah, but his loan spell last season at Aston Villa suggests he may not ready for Premier League football yet.

According to the Mirror on their live transfer blog (4:49pm, 1 August), the Cottagers and Burnley like the 21-year-old, while Villa are also keen on re-signing him after last season.

The report adds that Spurs are reluctant to let him go out on loan as it stands due to injury problems within the squad ahead of the start of the season.

However, Fulham should ensure they are not in the race for the England Under-21 international if he does become available, as he would add very little to the squad.

Onomah had an inconsistent spell at Villa in the Championship where he failed to cement his spot in the starting XI and came in for some heavy criticism at times.

He is a versatile ace that can play in all midfield positions, but is still lacking that composure and quality that could make him a force in the Premier League.

Manager Slavisa Jokanovic has some excellent options in the centre of the park through the likes of Jean Michael Seri, Tom Cairney, Kevin McDonald and Stefan Johansen.

Meanwhile, it seems unlikely that Onomah could get near either Andre Schurrle or Ryan Sessegnon if he was competing for a wide role.

The 21-year-old would be better served dropping back down to the Championship to continue his development, while Fulham are making much more ambitious signings.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/08/02/dt-fulham-should-bin-reported-interest-in-tottenham-ace-josh-ono/

Marcel_Gecov

Quote from: WhiteJC on August 02, 2018, 07:22:08 AM

Fulham should bin reported interest in Tottenham youngster Josh Onomah

Fulham should forget about reported interest in Tottenham youngster Josh Onomah.

Fulham are reportedly interested in Tottenham midfielder Josh Onomah, but his loan spell last season at Aston Villa suggests he may not ready for Premier League football yet.

According to the Mirror on their live transfer blog (4:49pm, 1 August), the Cottagers and Burnley like the 21-year-old, while Villa are also keen on re-signing him after last season.

The report adds that Spurs are reluctant to let him go out on loan as it stands due to injury problems within the squad ahead of the start of the season.

However, Fulham should ensure they are not in the race for the England Under-21 international if he does become available, as he would add very little to the squad.

Onomah had an inconsistent spell at Villa in the Championship where he failed to cement his spot in the starting XI and came in for some heavy criticism at times.

He is a versatile ace that can play in all midfield positions, but is still lacking that composure and quality that could make him a force in the Premier League.

Manager Slavisa Jokanovic has some excellent options in the centre of the park through the likes of Jean Michael Seri, Tom Cairney, Kevin McDonald and Stefan Johansen.

Meanwhile, it seems unlikely that Onomah could get near either Andre Schurrle or Ryan Sessegnon if he was competing for a wide role.

The 21-year-old would be better served dropping back down to the Championship to continue his development, while Fulham are making much more ambitious signings.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/08/02/dt-fulham-should-bin-reported-interest-in-tottenham-ace-josh-ono/

I love stories like this, has anybody seen us linked to Onomah?

Maidstone Lee

Quote from: Marcel_Gecov on August 02, 2018, 10:37:59 AM
Quote from: WhiteJC on August 02, 2018, 07:22:08 AM

Fulham should bin reported interest in Tottenham youngster Josh Onomah

Fulham should forget about reported interest in Tottenham youngster Josh Onomah.

Fulham are reportedly interested in Tottenham midfielder Josh Onomah, but his loan spell last season at Aston Villa suggests he may not ready for Premier League football yet.

According to the Mirror on their live transfer blog (4:49pm, 1 August), the Cottagers and Burnley like the 21-year-old, while Villa are also keen on re-signing him after last season.

The report adds that Spurs are reluctant to let him go out on loan as it stands due to injury problems within the squad ahead of the start of the season.

However, Fulham should ensure they are not in the race for the England Under-21 international if he does become available, as he would add very little to the squad.

Onomah had an inconsistent spell at Villa in the Championship where he failed to cement his spot in the starting XI and came in for some heavy criticism at times.

He is a versatile ace that can play in all midfield positions, but is still lacking that composure and quality that could make him a force in the Premier League.

Manager Slavisa Jokanovic has some excellent options in the centre of the park through the likes of Jean Michael Seri, Tom Cairney, Kevin McDonald and Stefan Johansen.

Meanwhile, it seems unlikely that Onomah could get near either Andre Schurrle or Ryan Sessegnon if he was competing for a wide role.

The 21-year-old would be better served dropping back down to the Championship to continue his development, while Fulham are making much more ambitious signings.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/08/02/dt-fulham-should-bin-reported-interest-in-tottenham-ace-josh-ono/

I love stories like this, has anybody seen us linked to Onomah?

I can't say I've seen that anywhere to be honest.
Stand up if you still believe!
@LeeWarner19


Bryanthebroom

Has Sessegnon signed a new deal? Says so in the first story...