Sunday Fulham Stuff (05/08/18)...

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'Double-digit million transfer in the room' – Fulham potential signing talked up

On Friday we covered claims from De Telegraaf that Fulham are interested in Eintracht Frankfurt's Jetro Willems. The player is one of several left backs being linked with the Premier League club at the moment.

De Telegraaf reported Fulham had asked Frabkfurt to name their price for the player, with the Dutch newspaper adding it's been a dream of Willems' to play in the top flight of English football.

German newspaper Bild have now picked up the case, and they report, according to their own information: 'a double-digit million transfer is in the room'

Willems agent Sigi Lens is said to have told Dutch website Voetbol Primeur: "It's moving in. I cannot say more than that yet."

Frankfurt's sport director is quoted as saying: "It's the question of which alternatives you have. How can you compensate for a departure and what fee do you get? That's why we're not concerned with that."

AS Roma are also said to be interested, but Willems' Premier League dream is once again outlined, and Bild point out he's big buddies with Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum.

This one sounds very much like it has quite a bit to it for Fulham, and now it remains to be seen if the two clubs can agree a fee.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-signing-double-digit-millions/

[WhiteJC]

 
Mawson's all-round potential worth the price

Fulham's new centre-half can offer goals and clean sheets in Fantasy

Alfie Mawson (£5.0m) has the qualities to become a big factor in Fantasy Premier League this season.

He arrives at Fulham from Swansea City and is expected to partner Tim Ream (£4.5m) at centre-half in the Cottagers' back four.

Mawson boasted a major threat from defence for his former club.

He scored six goals across the last two Premier League campaigns.

And he recorded 20 shots on goal, 17 of which were inside the opposition penalty area, in 2017/18.

Defensive points
But his defensive contributions cannot be ignored either.

Mawson made 288 clearances, blocks and interceptions (CBI) last season.

CBI is a key metric in the Bonus Points System (BPS), which decides how bonus points in matches are awarded.

So, too, is passing.

Players who attempt at least 30 passes in a match can score BPS.

If they complete 70, 80 or 90 per cent of their passes, they pick up two, four or six BPS points respectively.

Mawson averaged 45.9 passes a match, with a completion rate of 81.1 per cent, during the last campaign.

So if Fulham claim a clean sheet, his chances of gaining bonus points will be raised.

Mawson v Ream 2017/18

	Mawson	Ream
Mins/shot	171	1320
Mins/successful tackle	155.5	141.4
Mins/CBI	11.9	11.4
Mins/successful pass	2.4	1.6

At home, in particular, Fulham have been handed a favourable run of opening matches.

Only one of their first 10 opponents at Craven Cottage score more than three in the Fixture Difficulty Ranking (FDR).

Priced at £5.0m, Mawson is Fulham's most expensive defensive option.

But as one of only 10 players to feature in the top 25 defenders for both shots and CBI last season, his all-round potential can be worth the extra outlay.



https://www.premierleague.com/news/794522

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Theo Hernandez wanted by Fulham

Fulham have been one of the big spenders in the Premier League so far this summer as they aim to ensure their safety and possibly more.

Indeed, the Cottagers were dominant during the second half of the season last time out, and it's safe to say that they've made a big statement of intent so far this summer. And, it doesn't look as if Slavisa Jokanovic is done yet, as according to Sun Sport, Fulham want to sign Real Madrid's Theo Hernandez on loan

It's believed that the London club have offered the Real Madrid £1.75 million to take the left-back to Craven Cottage.

The Premier League new boys faced competition for the 20-year-old from Real Sociedad but looked to have moved ahead of the Spanish side by offering to pay his wages in full.

Sociedad can't afford his wages, believed to be around £40,000-a-week, and want Madrid to pay half of his salary, so the Cottagers are very much in pole position.

THE VERDICT:
So, it looks as if the Cottagers are looking to bring in even more reinforcements in the form of Real Madrid's Theo Hernandez, who has already impressed during his time at the Bernabeu.

Indeed, having seen how many impressive players the London club have drafted in so far this summer, it will be interesting to see whether Jokanovic can get them to gel together.

Nonetheless, securing the services of the youngster in the form of a season-long loan deal would be an incredible bit of business, as the 20-year-old is one of the stars of the game for his specific age.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/theo-hernandez-wanted-by-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
U18s: Fulham 8-0 Nottingham Forest

Fulham's Under-18s saw off Nottingham Forest 8-0 with an impressive performance in their penultimate pre-season fixture. Harvey Elliott scored a first half hat-trick, with both Trialist strikers scorings braces.Timmy Abraham rounded off the match.

There was a lot of early pressure from the Young Whites, Fulham found the breakthrough they deserved in the fourth minute. The ball was swept into the box and Elliott blasted it through bodies into the back of the net to make it 1-0.

From the restart Forest tried to lob George Wickens, but it was no problem for him. 2 minutes later and the striker managed to get through for a one on one with Wickens, but he got low and took the sting out of the shot which was subsequently cleared.

Fulham attacked down the right and Sylvester Jasper fired on target from the edge of the area, a Forest defender nicked a deflection at the vital moment taking it away from its trajectory.

25 minutes in and Fabio Carvalho was inches from scoring. He chipped a ball over the defence to the striker, who laid it back off to the on-running Carvalho and fired low at the keeper. If he had gone either side it most likely would have been un-saveable.

In the 33rd minute the Fulham striker was chopped down entering the box and the referee awarded the Young Whites a spot-kick. Elliott took the honours and buried his penalty into the back of the net to make it 2-0, electing to go to his left.

Two minutes later the Young Whites were in full flow, the striker chipped the ball out wide to Elliott, he drove into the box and fired for the near post, the ball rattled the post and went out for a goal kick.

They didn't have to wait long though. In the next minute Fulham had a corner, the ball was whipped in. Scott Armsworth headed down, Connor McAvoy kept the ball alive for the Fulham striker as he fired into the back of the net for 3-0.

Carvalho and Elliott had a few more chances, Elliott however sealed his hat trick in sensational style. He spotted the 'keeper off his line five minutes before half time. He went for a curling lob, the ball nestled into the top left corner for his third.

Forest started the second half well, attacking down the left. McAvoy gave away a free kick outside the area. The Nottingham set piece taker rattled the crossbar with a good effort, but couldn't find the back of the net.   

Elliott was slipped into to an attack on the wing by Showkat Tahir, just as he let loose the left back managed to recover to get a good block in.

Fulham made it 5-0 shortly after, Ben Davis slipped a perfectly weighted ball to the striker, he took one touch to set himself up and fired past the 'keeper.

On the 70th minutes Colin Omogbehin rung the chances and within minutes Trialist C scored not once but twice to make it 7-0.

For the first goal, the ball was pulled back to him at the edge of the area and he rifled a shot into the bottom left.

The second was from close range, using the outside of his boot after Luci D'Henry skipped past four players in the box and set him up.

In the 75th minute Timmy Abraham made it 8-0, the ball bounced up for him in the area and he used his left to blast past the keeper. He had a chance to add another to his tally but skied his effort over the bar. The full time whistle ended the entertaining fixture.

Lineup: Wickens, Amekortu (70' Frei), Trailist A, Armsworth, McAvoy (D'Henry, Davis (70' Page), Hilton (46' Antwi), Carvalho (60' Trialist C), Jasper (29' Tahir), Trialist B (70' Abraham), Elliott (60' O'Neil).



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/august/04/u18s-fulham-8-0-nottingham-forest

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Mitrović scores in final Fulham friendly

Aleksandar Mitrović scored after just two minutes on his first start since joining Fulham permanently as they drew 2-2 with Celta Vigo in a friendly at Craven Cottage.

The Serbia international, who recently completed his move from Newcastle, collected a pass from fellow new arrival André Schürrle, turned his marker and slotted into the bottom corner.

Mitrović also set up the Whites' second goal, with Aboubakar Kamara drilling home to restore the lead in the 17th minute after Dennis Eckert had headed Celta level.

Gustavo Cabral took advantage of some slack Fulham defending to nod in Iago Aspas' free-kick and make it 2-2 three minutes before half-time.

Fulham fielded all their other summer signings in the starting line-up except defender Alfie Mawson, whose transfer from Swansea was finalised only two days ago.

Former Nice duo Jean Michaël Seri and Maxime Le Marchand both completed 90 minutes, as did goalkeeper Fabri, whose point-blank save denied Claude Beauvue a second-half winner.

Fulham: Fabri; Christie (Fossey 81), Le Marchand, Ream, R Sessegnon; McDonald; Kamara, Cairney (Johansen 61), Seri, Schürrle (S Sessegnon 69); Mitrović (Kebano 81).



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/mitrovic-scores-in-final-fulham-friendly

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Aleksandar Mitrovic on form for Fulham as Slavisa Jokanovic puts final pieces in place for Premier League return


Getty Images

A week before their Premier League odyssey begins and you suspect that if the season began tomorrow Fulham would be ready.

Results may count for little in pre-season and so there was plenty of reasons to be impressed with a 2-2 draw against Celta Vigo.

The style that got them to the Premier League remains, but now they have a clutch of new players that allow them to carry it out to a higher standard. There was an energy and vibrancy to Slavisa Jokanovic's side, who cannot wait to be back in the big time.

Where so many of their Premier League rivals, from top-six contenders to relegation scrappers, will spend the final days of the transfer window desperately dashing around the market in search of numerous reinforcements, the Cottagers can rest relatively easy.

A left-back, whether that be last season's loanee Matt Targett or a more audacious deal for Real Madrid's Theo Hernandez, is still needed to free Ryan Sessegnon from defensive duties but, that aside, there are no glaring holes in Jokanovic's starting XI.

Lessons have been learned both from a disastrous window a year ago that threatened to derail the momentum that had taken them to the play-offs and the January acquisitions of Targett, Cyrus Christie and Aleksandar Mitrovic that fired them to the promised land.

Mitrovic was at the heart of that rise, more than paying back the £20m spent to make his loan permanent. He is Jokanovic's man and immediately looked right at home as he returned to the banks of the Thames.

Jean-Michael Seri and Andre Schurrle, two more marquee additions, were at the heart of the interplay that brought the opener inside three minutes. With his back to goal, Mitrovic picked the ball up, spun and drove forward. He may only just have returned from a post-World Cup holiday but he was too powerful for Gustavo Cabral, his fizzing shot too accurate for Sergio Alvarez.

There will undoubtedly be moments this season where Fulham's easy-on-the-eye play goes from bold to cavalier and that was apparent against a Celta side whose intense pressing from the front offered an ideal test for Jokanovic's ball-playing rearguard.

Goalkeeper Fabri fits right in there and he was quick off his line to beat Iago Aspas to a long ball but when crosses came in Tim Ream and Maxime Le Marchand, neither of whom appear to be in the most commanding in the air, looked ill at ease.

It was from there that Antonio Mohamed's side drew level, Hugo Mallo's teasing cross finding the space between the two centre-backs that Dennis Eckret attacks to flick home.

Not long after that seventh-minute equaliser Fulham were back in front. Mitrovic was once more at the heart, holding the ball up and flicking it on to Aboubakar Kamara, who fired low across goal.

Difficulties under the high ball continued - centre-back Cabral brought Celta level before the interval when he flicked in a free-kick from the left — but Alfie Mawson should ease them.

As the mercury pushed 29 degrees it was perhaps no surprise that both sides' admirable intensity faded in the second period, with the unsurprising exception of Mitrovic, who seemed intent on causing chaos for Celta at any opportunity.

However, the Serbian was unable to bully his way to a second as Fulham settled for a draw, with Celta going closest when Emre Mor managed to volley over an empty net after Fabri had saved well from Claude Beauvue.

Once more questions could be asked of the defence but Fulham will hope that is improved by a few new signings when they face Crystal Palace in a week's time. If that is the case the Cottagers should prove to be an excellent addition to the Premier League.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-2-celta-vigo-2-aleksandar-mitrovic-looks-at-home-as-slavisa-jokanovic-puts-final-pieces-in-a3903906.html

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Fulham vs Celta Vigo player ratings: Mitrovic and Fabri impress in tale of attack and defence

It was a quick paced first half where attack shone and defence struggled

Fulham vs Celta Vigo player ratings: Mitrovic and Fabri impress in tale of attack and defence

It was a quick paced first half where attack shone and defence struggled

The La Liga side weren't put off however and when Mallo won the ball from Fabri's clearance before swinging a ball into the Cottagers' area.

Dennis Eckret forced himself in front of Maxime Le Marchand, who was flat footed, and directed his header past Fabri.

The Whites were able to express some spectacular interplay as the half passed by but it was Mitrovic's strength which afford them their second goal. The ex-Newcastle man held the ball before beating his man a laying off for Aboubakar Kamara who rifled into the net.


LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 04: Aleksandar Mitrovic of Fulham breaks through to score during a Pre-Season Friendly between Fulham and Celta Vigo at Craven Cottage on August 4, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

The visitors looked threatening too however and a free kick on the left allowed them to find Gustavo Cabral who put the ball past past Fabri to bring the scores level at 2-2.

The game eventually slowed down in the second half with Fulham looking more comfortable defensively but lacking the same impetus they showed in the first.

We've rated the player's performances below:

Fabri

Still no Marcus Bettinelli in the squad points towards Fabri being No. 1 next week against Crystal Palace. Looked comfortable this afternoon and never really had a huge chance with either goal. Very alert for sweeping across the edge of his box. Beautiful save from Claude Beauvue in the second period. 8
Cyrus Christie

Quiet by his standards as he wasn't afforded to much opportunity to maraud up the wing. Found more space in the second half to fire in a couple of low crosses. 6
Tim Ream

Less sure than his usual self alongside Le Marchand. A lack of pace compared to Vigo's forward looked to stop him from imposing himself like he can. Looked to be a little difficulty communicating with his partner. More assertive in the second half. 5
Maxime Le Marchand

The Frenchman had a similar performance to Ream, where he didn't look decisive enough. Again very accomplished passing into the midfield but looked a yard off the pace compared to Iago Aspas and co. Improved in the second period. 5
Ryan Sessegnon

His impact was limited slotting in a left back but didn't put a foot wrong despite a lot of pressure on his wing. Combined well with Schurrle when afford the opportunity. Moved further up the field in the second half. 6
Kevin McDonald

Industrious performance for a warm day. Often found himself in the middle of Ream and Le Marchand. 6
Jean-Michael Seri

Attempts to cover every blade of grass and does so well, had some lovely interplay with Andre Schurrle cuting across the pitch, real irresistable. 7
Tom Cairney

Quiet start but found his way into the game playing off of Mitrovic and also collecting the ball from deep. Showed some trickery to add to his passing repertoire. 6
Aboubakar Kamara

The most technical performance I've seen from the striker. he interchanged between wings and played lots of first time football. Looked ready-made to continue in the system next week. Great finish to top off his performance. 7
Aleksandar Mitrovic

The Serbian looked up for today's match. Clinical finish early doors before turning provider for Kamara. The ball stuck to him really well in his target man role and displayed more accurate passing than he often tends to. Certainly looks promising for next week. 7
Andre Shurrle


LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 04: Andre Schurrle of Fulham in action during a Pre-Season Friendly between Fulham and Celta Vigo at Craven Cottage on August 4, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Looked unplayable at times but just missing the final touch or pass my inches at the moment. Very fit and strong and could be a real asset this season. Real makes Fulham's attacking play look a notch above. Would not like to pick between him and Sessegnon for that left wing berth, though he slowed down in the second half. 7

Substitutes:
Stefan Johansen (60mins)

Best compliment for the midfielder is that Fulham didn't miss Cairney' presence when he entered the field. 6
Steven Sessegnon (67mins)

Slotted in at left back while his brother moved up the same flank. Steady performance. 6
Marlon Fossey (80mins)

Limited time to make an impact but looked good when he came on. 6
Neesken Kebano (80mins)

Wasn't give the chance to make an impression. 4



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-celta-vigo-player-ratings-14990249

[WhiteJC]

 
Report: Town's new era begins with dramatic draw as Edun rescues a point on debut

The Paul Hurst era at Ipswich Town has begun with a dramatic late equaliser after Tayo Edun rescued a point on his Blues debut.

The Fulham youngster only joined on loan yesterday, but was the toast of Portman Road a little more than 24-hours later when his 90th-minute cross crept in at the far post to send the home crowd wild.

It had looked as if the Blues were heading for an opening-day defeat, after Danny Graham and Bradley Dack had cancelled out Gwion Edwards' early opener, before Edun ensured Hurst has a point on the board at the earliest opportunity.

There were certainly positives to take from the display, while area of obvious need were highlighted as we hurtle towards Thursday's transfer deadline.

There were for debutants – Ellis Harrison, Edwards, Trevoh Chalobah and Janoi Donacien – in the starting line-up as Hurst named his first Ipswich side and they all had both good and bad moments as they took their first steps in Ipswich shirts.

Edwards was the pick of the bunch, looking dangerous whenever he got on the ball and looked to run at his man, while Harrison worked tirelessly in attack for little reward.

But despite the obvious areas needing improvement, there was enough on show to encourage the near-19,000 crowd which so enthusiastically encouraged their side throughout and cheered them off at the end.

They were cheering within five minutes, as Cole Skuse started a patient Ipswich move with a neat flick in the middle of the midfield switching play to the left, where Sears floated a delightful cross which Edwards was able to cushion into the far corner with a well-placed header.

Portman Road was rocking, the Blues were getting Edwards on the ball but the odd miss-placed pass highlighted opening-day nerves.

They were punished after 20 minutes when Graham was on hand to turn the ball home after a long, flighted free-kick into the penalty wasn't properly cleared, with Bartosz Bialkowski only able to juggle the ball into the striker's path.

The Blues looked to push on and respond but left the door open at the other end, with a combination of Spence and Janoi Donacien caught out of position, up the pitch, allowing Derrick Williams to cross and provide Dack with the easiest of finishes for Blackburn's second.

Spence soon departed having suffered an earlier clash of heads, which had clearly impacted his display, and was replaced by Woolfenden as the hosts tried to regain a foothold in the contest.

They struggled to create any chances of note prior to the interval and found things tough in the second as Rovers became more compact, happy with their lead.

Edwards looked the most likely to unlock the door, while Ben Morris and Edun looked bright off the bench, before the latter's cross rescued a point.



http://www.eadt.co.uk/sport/ipswich-town-v-blackburn-rovers-report-1-5638218

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 2-2 Celta Vigo: Aleksandar Mitrovic makes his mark in Fulham's final pre-season friendly

    Aleksandar Mitrovic scored on his first start since joining Fulham permanently
    Celta Vigo levelled through Dennis Eckret before Aboubakar Kamara struck
    Gustavo Cabral equalised again for the La Liga side in Fulham's final friendly
    Fulham host Crystal Palace in first Premier League game on Saturday August 11

Aleksandar Mitrovic took just three minutes to return to scoring ways after joining Fulham on a permanent deal as the Cottagers were held to a pre-season friendly draw by La Liga side Celta Vigo.

The Serbian striker moved to Craven Cottage for £22million from Newcastle after scoring 12 goals in 20 games to fire Fulham to promotion from the Championship last season.

Fellow new signings Fabricio Agosto, Maxime Le Marchand, Jean Michael Seri and Andre Schurrle also appeared as Fulham concluded their pre-season schedule, but £20m defender Alfie Mawson was not in the squad.


Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic found the net on his first start since rejoining Fulham

With just three minutes on the clock, Mitrovic beat the offside trap to slot in the opener.

Fulham continued to force the matter early on, starting at a very quick tempo as they looked to beat their Spanish opponents.

Yet Celta Vigo striker Dennis Eckret nodded past Fabri four minutes later to level the scores.


Aboubakar Kamara scored the second as Fulham were held to a 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage


Boss Slavisa Jokanovic appears happy with Fulham's progress in their final pre-season friendly


Teenage wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon started at left-back against Celta Vigo for Fulham

The hectic tempo continued, and the Whites were ahead again when Mitrovic beat his marker and laid the ball of for Aboubakar Kamara to arrow the ball home.

Fulham continued to press forward, with new signing Seri impressing in midfield as Schurrle and Ryan Sessegnon saw efforts saved.

However, they were pegged back again when Gustavo Cabral thumped home a header just before half-time.

Mitrovic continued to cause havoc among the Spanish side's defence, going close with a header before seeing a free-kick saved.

Yet neither side could find the decisive breakthrough as the game petered out amid a slew of substitutions.

The Cottagers begin their Premier League campaign at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday August 11.



http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6026739/Aleksandar-Mitrovic-makes-goalscoring-return-Fulhams-final-pre-season-friendly.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Head Coach Reaction

Slaviša Jokanović believes Celta Vigo provided a good test ahead of the 2018/19 Premier League campaign.

In an exciting 2-2 draw where all the goals came in the first-half, the Serbian can still see some room for improvement before the Crystal Palace game a week today.

"We're still in pre-season," said Jokanović.

"We had an opportunity today to test the waters and see where we are. We showed many positive things, but we need to be more solid in the Premier League.

"We showed we can score and counter attack. On the other side, we need more to be more solid. If you're not solid, you'll be in a dangerous situation.

"We've shown that we have the quality. We gave Celta many chances to score and if we give Crystal Palace these chances, we'll pay an expensive price."

The Head Coach gave an update on the fitness of new signing Alfie Mawson following his arrival from Swansea City.

"Alfie Mawson's a great signing, but won't be ready for the start of the season. He must wait another three weeks, and then he'll start working with us. I don't think he'll be available to help us until September."

"I am focused on my work and will try to lift our level. We need to keep working hard to be at our highest level - it's exciting. I need to fix a few problems and we are still looking at the market to find solutions," he said.

Fabri, Jean Michael Seri, Maxime Le Marchand and André Schürrle all graced the Craven Cottage turf for the first time and Fulham's Head Coach was impressed with their impact.

"The new players did their job today," explained Jokanović.

"Some players arrived late and have only been working with with us for a few days.

"We expect that they'll give us more quality and push us forward in the right direction.

"We know these players can be better and we'll work hard to get them ready for the Premier League."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/august/04/head-coach-reaction

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham boss targets three more signings

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanović says his squad need "extra petrol" – and wants up to three more signings before the transfer window closes next week.

Jokanovic wants to bring in another defender, as well as a defensive midfielder and a striker before the Whites launch their Premier League campaign at home to Crystal Palace next weekend.

The club have already signed six players since regaining top-flight status in May – but their defensive shortcomings were exposed in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Celta Vigo in a friendly at Craven Cottage.

"We finished third in the Championship. It's like in a Formula One race and we arrived last," said Jokanović. "We need some extra petrol, someone who can play against Premier League teams.

"I believe we need to be more solid in the Premier League. We can score goals and move the ball, but we are definitely not solid enough.

"We gave many, many chances to Celta to score. If we give Crystal Palace these kind of chances, we could pay very expensively.

"Transfer business is definitely not done, we need more additions. This team is working hard but the players need more help, it's simple.

"I completely lost the defensive line from last season – Ryan Fredericks and Tomas Kalas, Denis Odoi is suspended and Matt Targett is not here. Only Tim Ream is still on the squad.

"After Kevin McDonald I don't have another player who can play in his position. After Mitrović I don't have another player like this. We need to try and strengthen in these next few days.

"I hope I will have a stronger team in my hand. If not. I must make some kind of improvisation, but at this level that can be so dangerous."

Jokanović started five of the new arrivals against the La Liga side, with Mitrović opening the scoring before setting up Fulham's second goal for Aboubakar Kamara.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-boss-targets-three-more-signings

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham should add further to their squad and sign this £8.1m-rated Championship winger



Fulham will be hoping to make a real fist of things on their return to Premier League football, with manager Slavisa Jokanovic undoubtedly having confident in his young squad to compete at the highest level.

Big money signings such as Aleksandar Mitrovic and Jean-Michael Seri have added quality to a strong core that already contained the likes of Tom Cairney and Ryan Sessegnon, and the Cottagers just might surprise a few people if things can get off to a good start.

Last season saw the Craven Cottage witness some of the best football on display in the Championship, and that same principle will no doubt be a key element of this season's campaign. However, we at the Transfer Tavern think adding a few more names to the ranks could well go a long way for Jokanovic and co.

Indeed, one player think would be a superb signing if West Bromwich Albion winger Matty Phillips, who is still a Baggies player despite seeing his side drop into the Championship.

However, the £8.1m-rated speedster is regarded by many as too good for the second tier, and it would come of no surprise if someone like Fulham was to make a bid for the winger. Phillips can be a class act on his day and has the ability to change a game with his dribbling, speed of foot, and finishing, and he would be a useful addition who would no doubt fit in in seamlessly with how Fulham play.

Phillips is a quality act, and if Fulham want strength in depth, he could well be the perfect signing.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham-should-add-further-to-their-squad-and-sign-this-8-1m-rated-championship-winger/

[WhiteJC]

 
3 goals and 2 assists – This 27-year-old midfield ace could be a brilliant signing for Fulham

Why Fulham must sign Joshua Guilavogui from Wolfsburg this summer

According to a report from Sky Sports, Fulham are interested in signing Wolfsburg midfielder Joshua Guilavogui this summer.

The Cottagers have made quite a splash in the ongoing transfer window so far, wrapping up deals for the likes of Jean Michael Seri, Andre Schurrle, Fabri and Maxime Le Marchand.

Slavisa Jokanovic and his men have definitely announced their return to the English top-flight in thunderous fashion. But as per Sky Sports, it looks like the club could sign Guilavogui to further strengthen their midfield department.

As things stand, Fulham have some of the most talented midfielders in the game. Tom Cairney and Kevin McDonald were two of the standout performers in the Championship last season. Their displays helped the London-based outfit secure a promotion to the Premier League.



However, to ensure they retain their elite status and secure a promising finish, Fulham will need further reinforcements. And to that end, a move for Guilavogui seems like a great move.

A defensive midfielder by trade, the 27-year-old is a crafty operator in the middle of the park. He could work wonders in Jokanovic's preferred 4-3-3 formation, sitting at the base of the three-man midfield.

Adept at shielding the defence and fuelling counter-attacks, Guilavogui can contribute equally to both aspects of the game. The Frenchman was a mainstay for Wolfsburg last season, appearing 33 times across competitions for the German outfit.

Over the course of the previous campaign, Guilavogui scored 3 goals and provided 2 assists. He boasts of an impressive pass success rate of 85.2% and his aerial strength is illustrated by the fact that he won an average of 2.3 duels per game.

He can intercept and block opposition players quite admirably and is an industrious worker in the midfield area. However, one area of concern is his discipline. While he is excellent at tackling and breaking up opposition attacks, Guilavogui has a tendency of being too rash.

In fact, he received a whopping 6 yellow cards and a solitary red card last season. If Fulham sign the player, Jokanovic must work towards helping him bring about a sense of subtlety in his game.

But besides that, Guilavogui has the potential to become a top performer for Fulham in the Premier League next season.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/08/05/3-goals-and-2-assists-this-27-year-old-midfield-ace-could-be-a-brilliant-signing-for-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
How Fulham could fit in Mitrovic and Schurrle in the starting XI? Predicting Jokanovic's team

Dream Fulham XI featuring Aleksandar Mitrovic and Andre Schurrle

Like fellow newly-promoted side Wolverhampton Wanderers, Fulham are on a spending spree this summer. The Cottagers are in the process of assembling a squad that will not only survive relegation but can also compete in the Premier League. After a slow start to the summer, the Craven Cottage side's transfer activities have finally ground into gear as the deadline approaches.

Alfie Mawson, Aleksandar Mitrovic, Jean-Michael Seri, Maxime Le Marchand, Fabri and Andre Schurrle will all be plying their trade at Craven Cottage next season. On paper, this squad is strong enough to push for a top-10 finish if everything clicks.

So how could Fulham line-up for the Premier League?

Formation:  Slavisa Jokanovic's preferred 4-2-3 -1

Goalkeeper: Marcus Bettinelli

He must pick off where he left last season after a series of impressive displays. Fabri will be the backup keeper, experienced and reliable.

Left-Back: Denis Odoi

The experienced Belgian was part of Fulham's centre-back pair from the previous term but he could feature at left-back ahead of Maxime Le Marchand, another signing from Nice.

Centre-Back: Tim Ream

The leader at the back will be tasked with marshalling the club's defence to thwart opposition attacks. He was colossal last season and he should start at the heart of Fulham's defence.

Centre-Back: Alfie Mawson

Mawson has joined Craven Cottage on a four-year deal from relegated Swansea City and he should feature in the centre-back berth.

Right-Back: Cyrus Christie

Signed as Ryan Fredericks' replacement in January, the Irishman should feature at right-back and repay his manager's faith and trust in him.

Defensive Midfielder: Kevin McDonald

McDonald will be part of the holding midfield pair. He will be key to the club's ambitions and this is evident given that he has just signed a new contract at Fulham. Expect him to give everything when the action starts.

Defensive Midfielder: Jean Michael Seri

Signing Seri was a shrewd piece of business by the Cottagers. On the pitch, expect loads of energy from the former Nice man.

Left-Wing: Ryan Sessegnon

At only 18, Fulham's wonder kid will receive Premier League exposure. Having emerged through Fulham's youth ranks, Sessegnon has made 71 Championship appearances, scoring 20 goals and providing 9 assists. Now the Premier League lays in wait for him.

Central Attacking Midfielder: Tom Cairney

Fulham's captain and talisman must lead the Cottagers, featuring as an attacking midfielder through the middle.

Right-Wing: Andre Schurrle

Although he prefers playing on the left flank, Schurrle can play anywhere across the attack line. The German has joined Fulham for another stint in the Premier League and London after his stay at Chelsea. He must replicate his form and work wonders for Jokanovic's men.

Centre-Forward: Aleksandar Mitrovic

Mitrovic should get the nod ahead of Rui Fonte. After a successful loan spell in the Championship, he must prove his calibre in the top-flight as well.



http://www.mediareferee.com/2018/08/05/how-fulham-could-fit-in-mitrovic-and-schurrle-in-the-starting-xi-predicting-jokanovics-team/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham mulling over a move for Bundesliga defender: A quality option for Jokanovic

Transfer Story

According to Dutch football magazine Voetbal, Fulham have enquired over the possibility of signing Jetro Willems. The Eintracht Frankfurt left-back has been a subject of a move away from the Bundesliga after losing his place midway through last season with the Cottagers growing keen on acquiring his services.

However, the source believes that the newly promoted Premier League side could face stiff competition from AS Roma, who are eager on signing him after initially failing in an attempt during January.

Player profile and what will he add

Willems moved to Bundesliga last summer as a part of Niko Kovac's project at Eintracht Frankfurt. He made a quick impact as well becoming a regular fixture in the starting lineup throughout the Bundesliga Hinrunde 2017. But, the 24-year-old fell out of favour in the second half of the campaign that saw him featuring in only seven games since the turn of the year.

And following the departure of Kovac to Bayern Munich earlier this summer, Willems' future at Frankfurt is in severe doubt with new coach Adi Hutter unlikely to include him in his plans next season.

As for Fulham, the addition of someone like Jetro Willems will be revitalising given his plethora of qualities in wider positions.

Generally advertised as an attacking fullback, the Dutch fullback is blessed immense technical prowess, which makes him a handy presence in the final third. In fact, Willems is more of a wing-back rather than a fullback.

He can also operate further up the pitch, if necessary, while his crossing accuracy is what makes him such a unique component. Indeed, Willems is a cross-machine, who averaged a stunning total of 1.5 key passes per game last season.

Additionally, Willems had a tally of 3 attempted tackles, almost one interception and over 2 dribbles per game, making him a complete package in wider positions.

Why do Fulham need Jetro Willems?

The addition of Jetro Willems is imperative for Fulham given their lack of reliable options in the left-back department.

In fact, they have no recognised left-backs in their current roster after Matt Targett returned to Southampton following the end of his season-long loan deal.

As a result, the Cottagers are in complete disarray at the moment as far as their fullback department is concerned. But, the acquisition of Willems will provide Slavisa Jokanovic with a reliable option at his disposal, as the former boasts incredible talent and has the necessary qualities to thrive in the Premier League.

Stat courtesy: Whoscored



https://madaboutepl.net/2018/08/fulham-mulling-over-a-move-for-bundesliga-defender-jetro-willems/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham held by Celta Vigo in final friendly

Fulham's pre-season schedule ended with a curious game in glorious sunshine against a skillful Celta Vigo side that could be read in contrasting ways. On the positive side, Slavisa Jokanovic's side looked threatening going forward, composed in possession and their manipulation of the football is enhanced by this summer's acquisitions. But the Serbian would have been perturbed at just how easy his team were to carve open and frustrated by the calamitous marking at set plays that twice allowed the Spaniards back into a pulsating game.

In truth, Celta could have wrapped up an impressive victory had their had a finisher of any note. In a match notable for its intensity and tempo on an oppressively hot afternoon on the banks of the Thames, both sides played attacking and progressive football from the outset. Fulham established an early lead through a fine Aleksandar Mitrovic strike and then re-established their advantage courtesy of an excellent finish from Aboubakar Kamara, but some sloppy defending allowed Celta Vigo back into the contest.

The Spanish side stroked the ball around magnificently and the movement of their front three was mesmerising at times, with the fluidity causing constant problems for Tim Ream and Maxime Le Marchand at the heart of the Fulham defence. The understanding between the highly-rated Pione Sisto, Dennis Eckert and former Liverpool forward Iago Aspas proved strong – and had the three of them been more clinical in their finishing then the damage to Fulham's confidence ahead of their Premier League opener against Crystal Palace next week would have been far more consequential.

The hosts took the lead through a beautifully worked goal with Tim Ream, Andre Schurrle and Mitrovic all involved. The Serbian striker, making his first start at the Cottage since joining from Newcastle on a permanent basis last week, produced a finish of exquisite quality after a superb stepover and turn took him away from his marker – bending a low shot into the bottom right corner from the edge of the box.

Fulham's fragility at the back has been a cause for concern throughout a demanding pre-season schedule and Celta took less than three minutes to strike back. A poor clearance from Fabri surrendered possession in a dangerous area and Hugo Mallo's floated cross was headed home brilliantly by Eckret. The visitors might have gone in front on ten minutes when Aspas played in Sisto, but Fabri stood up well to save.

Just as Celta were growing into the game, Fulham struck again following another sweeping move from left to right. Mitrovic did well to link play with Tom Cairney, turned again and located the onrushing Kamara who sprinted into the inside right position and fired swiftly into the far corner from the edge of the box. It was a composed finish of real quality from the French forward, who has improved immeasurably under Jokanovic's tutelage and must stand an excellent chance of retaining his starting place next week.

Mitrovic almost latched onto an outstanding through ball from Cairney to surge through on goal, but – in an end-to-end passage of play – Celta came close to snatching a second equaliser. Mallo rattled the crossbar with a header than bounced down onto the goalline after a deep cross from Sisto. The hosts' reprieve didn't last until half-time after a clumsy Kamara foul gifted the Spaniards a free-kick right on the edge of the box and Cabral punished some non-existent marking to power a free header past Fabri far too easily.

The La Liga side had by far the better of the second period. Eckret's eye-catching dexterity allowed him to link up with Sisto well inside the Fulham box, but the Danish winger's wild shot landed in the Putney End. Fulham replied in kind, with Mitrovic's strength and determination seeing him hold off Facundo Roncaglia, turn and guide a shot wide of the far post from inside the six-yard box. It was the sort of chance the powerful forward will need to take on a regular basis in the top flight this term.

The Whites were then indebted to Fabri who made a fine save to deny Claudio Beauvue, who had sprinted clear of the remnants of the Fulham defence to threaten a late winner. The final few minutes were played out with all the blood and thunder of a competitive fixture. Jokanovic's charges went searching for a winner but the closest they came was an optimistic shot from Kevin McDonald that flew well over the bar after a concerted spell of Fulham possession.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Fabri; Christie (Fossey 79),  R. Sessegnon, Le Marchand, Ream; McDonald, Seri, Cairney (Johansen 60); Kamara, Schurrle (Sessegnon 68′), Mitrovic (Kebano 79′). Subs (not used): L. Ashby-Hammond, Odoi, Cisse, Fonte.

GOALS: Mitrovic (3), Kamara (17).

CELTA VIGO (3-4-3): Alvarez; Roncaglia (Roz 90), Araujo (Costas 62), Cabral (Mor 45); Mallo (Vasquez 80), Lobotka, Beltran (Jozabed 62), Junca (Mazan 80); Aspas (Hjulsager 62), Eckret (Beauvue 62), Sisto (Mendez 62). Subs (not used): Garcia, Fernandez, Villar.

GOALS: Eckret (7), Cabral (42)



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/08/fulham-held-by-celta-vigo-in-final-friendly/

[WhiteJC]

 
Jokanovic seeks further Fulham signings

Slavisa Jokanovic has insisted that Fulham's summer transfer business 'is definitely not done' and has warned the club's board not to make him improvise in the Premier League with the new season a week away.

The Cottagers have spent upwards of £70m on new signings since being promoted in May but after their pre-season preparations ended with an entertaining 2-2 draw against Celta Vigo at Craven Cottage this afternoon, Jokanovic identified key positions where his still small squad needs strengthening. The Serbian believes Fulham require reinforcements in defence, an alternative to Kevin McDonald as an anchor in front of the back four and back-up for Aleksandar Mitrovic up front before the window shuts on Thursday.

Speaking after the final whistle, Jokanovic said:

    Our business is definitely not done. I'm not the first who complains about transfer business... I'm not complaining. We need some additions. We need backups in some positions. I lost a complete defensive line from last season: Ryan Fredericks, Tomas Kalas, Denis Odoi is suspended, Matt Targett is not here. Only Tim Ream is in the squad. [Maxime] Le Marchand has come from Nice, he's definitely part of the team but we need to try to strengthen in the next few days ahead of us.

    I mentioned many players in the defensive line, I bring [in] only one. You have the opportunity to check the game, you'll have some kind of opinion about the squad. This is the situation. We have time ahead of us, but we must be fast.

    I'm confident we're going to be working hard. I'm confident this team is working hard. These players need more help. That's simple. My defensive line is not complete. The club know and they're ready to make movement. I don't have a player who can play in McDonald's position. After Mitrovic? That player doesn't exist. We can improvise – it wouldn't be the first time for me – but if you're improvising in the Premier League the price can be expensive



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/08/jokanovic-seeks-further-fulham-signings/

[WhiteJC]

 
Cairney can't wait to get going

Tom Cairney can't wait to lead Fulham out in the Premier League after the Whites finished their pre-season preparations with an entertaining draw against Celta Vigo at Craven Cottage yesterday afternoon.

The Fulham skipper has long said that captaining the club in the top flight would be a dream come true and he believes the tough test ahead will mean that every member of the Fulham squad will have to do their bit. Speaking to FulhamFCTV after the 2-2 with the Spaniards, Cairney said:

     Hopefully we can pack the Cottage and get going. It will be a massive achievement. I think it has been a few years since we were last there and I think the starting eleven will be buzzing to play and the bench will be raring to come on. It's going to be a massive team effort throughout the season and we're going to need everyone, including the fans, to get over the last this season.

Cairney believes the workout against a skillful Spanish side who posed Fulham real problems will serve Slavisa Jokanovic's side well as they head into the final week of training before the big kick off against Crystal Palace.

    It was tough in difficult conditions. It was boiling hot, it's been hot for ages, no pre-season has been like this. We played against a top side, who played great football. That's sometimes what we're going to come up against this season – it was a tough test for us before the first game of the season, which is good.

    We played good football. I think there's still a lot of things to work on, defensively and going forward. Pre-season's hard, hopefully the new boys can settle in and we can get more used to them. We played some good football and hopefully we can take that into [next Saturday against Crystal] Palace.

The Scottish international hailed the return of Aleksandar Mitrovic, who opening the scoring early on with a sublime strike and then laid on a second for Aboubakar Kamara. Cairney feels the Serbian's physical presence lends an entirely different dimension to the Fulham attack:

    I think it's great for us to have him back. I think we wanted him back as soon as the [play-off] final finished in May. It was a great start for us within the first five minutes, so long may that continue. It's brilliant. We've got a target man, someone who can roll defenders and you know he can finish. There's not many of them around and I'm just glad he's in a Fulham shirt.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/08/cairney-cant-wait-to-get-going/