Saturday Fulham Stuff (25/08/18)...

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 06:52:35 AM

'It's a must-win for Fulham' - Sky Sports pundit predicts a crunch tie against Burnley

The Cottagers have lost their previous two games in the Premier League and Merson believes this is a big game for the side

Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson believes Fulham's game with Burnley is a must-win for the Cottagers and that the season will be a struggle if they don't secure victory.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side have lost their opening two games of the season, losing 2-0 on the opening day of the season against Crystal Palace while suffering defeat to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.

However, there have been encouraging signs from Fulham, who started the game with Palace extremely well and had a 25 minute spell against Spurs where they were on top of the Champions League side.

12 new faces were brought in over the summer, with seven of those starting last weekend at Wembley new faces as Jokanovic looks to find out what his best XI is in a much-changed Fulham team.

However, Merson believes the game with Burnley will show whether the Cottagers are just a really good Championship side, or if they are good enough for the Premier League.

On his Sky Sports column, he said: "If Fulham lose this, that's three defeats in three and you're maybe thinking they're going to struggle.

"You wonder: are they an unbelievably good Championship team, but not good enough for the Premier League? This is a huge game for them.

(Image: Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

"This is Fulham's big test, Burnley at home after a Europa League week for them. If they lose this I think it's a tough old season for them. It's a must-win for Fulham.

"PAUL PREDICTS: 1-0"

https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/its-must-win-fulham-sky-15067525

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 06:53:53 AM

Our Czech Mate Remains In The Championship After Spell At Fulham Comes To An End

Last season, there were several players in the Fulham squad who spent the season on loan with our club.

The likes of Lucas Piazon, Oliver Norwood and Tomas Kalas played an invaluable part in the club realising their dream and regaining their Premier League status.

All three, deservedly, took part in the celebrations that followed our Play-Off Final success.

However, football can be a harsh game and none of the aforementioned trio were given the opportunity to be part of the Fulham squad for this season, with the club deciding to exercise other options.

But, concentrating on Toms Kalas, a defender who appeared seventy-six times in a Fulham shirt, it is being reported, according to the BBC, that the 25-year-old Czech defender has joined Bristol City on a season-long loan deal.

Kalas is, officially, a Chelsea player but during his time with our West London neighbours, has been out on loan on six occasions.

Here at Vital Fulham, we'd like to thank Tomas for his contribution to the Fulham cause and we wish him every success at Ashton Gate.

COYW's

https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/our-czech-mate-remains-in-the-championship-after-spell-at-fulham-comes-to-an-end/

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 06:56:59 AM

Fulham goalkeeping coach Jose Sambade Carreira leaves newly-promoted Premier League club just two matches into new season

Sportsmail understands the keepers were told about departure on Wednesday
There was no confirmation from Fulham about Jose Sambade Carreira's choice
However, sources claim that Carreira has found it hard to settle in England
The introduction of Fabri and Sergio Rico have hit some teething problems

Fulham goalkeeping coach Jose Sambade Carreira has left just two games into their top-flight return amid concerns about the club's two new shot-stoppers.

Sources claim Carreira, who arrived in west London at the start of last season, has found it hard to settle in England while his family have since returned to Spain. The timing of Carreira's exit raises questions over suggestions he is homesick.

Other Fulham insiders say his departure is connected to internal worries over the signings of goalkeepers Fabri and Sergio Rico.

Jose Sambade Carreira has left Fulham as goalkeeping coach after just two matches

The Spaniards — who arrived from Besiktas and Sevilla respectively this summer — have found difficulty bedding into Slavisa Jokanovic's plans, due in part to the pair's lack of English, it is understood.

Rico is yet to start a game for the club and in training it is understood he struggles to communicate with team-mates. Fabri, who has started both games, speaks marginally better English than Rico.

Sportsmail exclusively revealed Carreira's shock departure on Friday, although Fulham were adamant his exit had not been formally ratified.

It is understood that the club's first-team keepers were told about Carreira's departure on Wednesday night, but the decision for the coach to leave was made significantly earlier. He did not take training on Thursday.

Sportsmail understands the club's keepers were told about Carreira's departure on Wednesday

There was no confirmation from the club about the circumstances behind his departure on Friday night.

Calum Chambers, Joe Bryan, Cyrus Christie and Dutchman Timothy Fosu-Mensah, who have all started in the back four so far this season, communicate in English. Jokanovic speaks Spanish, but that is largely redundant during a match environment.

Sources claim members of the coaching staff are not fully convinced that Fabri can be the club's long-term No 1.

It remains to be seen whether Jokanovic changes keeper for Saturday's game against Burnley. Marcus Bettinelli, who was first choice last season, is an option.

Sergio Rico's difficulty with English has proved a considerable problem for Fulham

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6094185/Fulham-goalkeeping-coach-Jose-Sambade-Carreira-leaves-newly-promoted-Premier-League-club.html

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:00:18 AM

Fulham team and injury news: Tim Ream still not fit to return to first team action

Fulham news include the latest injury update as the Cottagers play Burnley on Sunday

Fulham will still be without Tim Ream when they welcome Burnley to Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon.

Last season's Player of the Year has yet to feature this campaign after picking up injury prior to the opening day of the season, where the Cottagers were beaten 2-0 by Crystal Palace.

Slavisa Jokanovic had expected him to start working with the team again after that defeat, but the American has struggled to regain fitness and will miss the game with Burnley, meaning Maxime Le Marchand and Calum Chambers will keep their places in the heart of defence.

Elsewhere, Floyd Ayite will also miss the game as he continues his recover from an injury that kept him sidelined throughout pre-season.

The head coach confirmed last week that the 29-year-old had returned to training with his side, but that he needed to undergo a training regime similar to pre-season in order to get him fully fit and ready to play some part in the Premier League campaign.

Jokanovic also provided an update on summer signing Alfie Mawson, who has also yet to feature for his new side since a £15million move from Swansea having undergone a knee operation at the end of last season.

He started working with his new side earlier in the week and will miss the game with Burnley on Sunday, but could make his bow against Exeter City in the second round of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night.

(Image: Daniel Hambury/PA Wire)

The club want to ease him back into first team action, but are yet to decide whether to play him for 45 or 60 minutes in the tie.

Speaking at his pre-Burnley press conference, Jokanovic said: "We improve a little bit but Floyd Ayite and Tim Ream are out of the squad but the rest of the team is available for the game.

"Mawson started working with us after a long period without being active.

Swansea City defender Alfie Mawson is of interest to West Ham (Image: GEOFF CADDICK/AFP/Getty Images)

"He made the last two training days with us and will need the time to build the fitness.

"We have a plan for next week to try use him in the Carabao Cup and then decide if we will try use him in 45 and 60 minute periods.

"We will observe the situation but we believe he can compete with us."

Predicted Fulham XI: Fabri; Bryan, Le Marchand, Chambers, Fosu-Mensah; Anguissa, Seri, Cairney; Sessegnon, Schurrle, Mitrovic

https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-team-injury-news-tim-15067651

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:03:03 AM

Fulham v Burnley preview: More rotation for Clarets after Europa League

Burnley are expected to rotate their squad once again following their midweek Europa League game when they travel to Fulham in the Premier League.

Sean Dyche made six changes for Thursday's 3-1 Europa League qualifying play-off first leg defeat at Olympiakos, with the likes of Joe Hart, James Tarkowski and Aaron Lennon dropping to the bench and Ben Mee being left out of the squad entirely.

But these players are expected to come back into the side as the Clarets look for their first Premier League win of the season after being beaten 3-1 by Watford last weekend.

While Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic hopes Burnley's Europa League exploits will help his side to a first Premier League win, he is still expecting a tough encounter.

"We are going to try to find some kind of benefit from this game they are going to play tonight, but in the end we know what Burnley are about. They are never tired, they are running and fighting like a really crazy gang," he said.

"I have respect for them, respect for how they play football, and respect for all the successful steps they have made these few seasons."

Team news

Denis Odoi is set to return for Fulham after his two-match suspension following a red card in the Sky Bet Championship play-off final.

However, Alfie Mawson needs more time to rebuild his fitness but could feature in the midweek Carabao Cup match against Exeter. Floyd Ayite and Tim Ream remain sidelined.

Matej Vydra remains waiting for his Burnley debut having been an unused substitute in Greece, where he was part of the matchday 18 for the first time. Ben Gibson will also be available despite his midweek sending off.

Opta stats

Fulham and Burnley haven't met since the 2015-16 season in the Championship - Burnley won both matches on their way to promotion that season.

Burnley haven't lost any of their last 10 Premier League games against newly promoted opposition (W2 D8), though five of their last seven of these meetings have ended goalless.

Fulham have failed to win either of their two Premier League games this season (L2) - they last started a Premier League campaign without winning any of their first three games back in 2011-12 (D1 L2).

After winning five consecutive Premier League games between March and April, Burnley have gone seven without a win in the competition (D3 L4).

Since the start of last season, Burnley (53%) have won a higher share of their Premier League points in away games than any other side (29 of 55).

Johann Berg Gudmundsson has provided 11 Premier League assists, more than double that of any other Burnley player. Only three of those assists have come in away games.

Aged 18 years and 92 days against Spurs, Ryan Sessegnon became the youngest Fulham player to assist a Premier League goal; the last 18-year-old to assist goals in back to back Premier League appearances was Sheyi Ojo for Liverpool in May 2016.

Merson's prediction

If Fulham lose this, that's three defeats in three and you're maybe thinking they're going to struggle. You wonder: are they an unbelievably good Championship team, but not good enough for the Premier League? This is a huge game for them.

This is Fulham's big test, Burnley at home after a Europa League week for them. If they lose this I think it's a tough old season for them. It's a must-win for Fulham.

PAUL PREDICTS: 1-0 (5/1 with Sky Bet)

http://www.skysports.com/football/fulham-vs-burnley/preview/390779

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:08:43 AM

Fulham vs Burnley: Premier League team news, kick-off time, likely line-ups, odds and stats

Fulham defender Denis Odoi will be available after missing start of the season
Summer signing Alfie Mawson is still out but could be back for League Cup tie
Sean Dyche is set to bring several players back after resting six in Europa League
Matej Vydra could make his Burnley debut, he was an unused sub on Thursday
Ahead of this weekend's Premier League action, Sportsmail will be providing you with all you need to know about every fixture, with team news, provisional squads, betting odds and Opta stats. Here is all the information you need for Fulham's home clash with Burnley at Craven Cottage.

Fulham team news

Denis Odoi will again be available for Fulham when they host Burnley in the Premier League on Sunday following his return from suspension.

The central defender missed the defeats to Crystal Palace and Tottenham after being sent off in last season's Championship play-off final victory over Aston Villa, but injuries mean Fulham remain without Tim Ream, Alfie Mawson and Floyd Ayite.

Summer signing Mawson has been building up his fitness and is in contention to return against Exeter next week in the Carabao Cup.

Provisional squad: Fabri, Chambers, Le Marchand, Christie, Bryan, Sessegnon, Odoi, McDonald, Cairney, Schurrle, Seri, Mitrovic, Rico, Fosu-Mensah, Kebano, Johansen, Cisse, Vietto, Kamara, Zambo Anguissa.

Fulham defender Denis Odoi is back after serving his suspension for a red in the play-off final

Burnley team news

Burnley boss Sean Dyche is set to bring several players back into the starting line-up when the Clarets face Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League on Sunday.

Dyche made six changes for Thursday's 3-1 Europa League qualifying play-off first leg defeat at Olympiacos, with the likes of Joe Hart, James Tarkowski and Aaron Lennon dropping to the bench and Ben Mee being left out of the squad entirely.

Matej Vydra remains waiting for his Burnley debut having been an unused substitute in Greece, where he was part of the matchday 18 for the first time.

Provisional squad: Hart, Heaton, Lowton, Taylor, Tarkowski, Mee, Gibson, Ward, Bardsley, Long, Cork, Gudmundsson, Hendrick, Westwood, Lennon, Vokes, Barnes, Wood, Walters, Vydra.

Joe Hart is among players who could return for Burnley after changes against Olympiacos

Fulham and Burnley - Key match stats

*Stats supplied by Opta

Fulham and Burnley haven't met since the 2015-16 season in the Championship – Burnley won both matches on their way to promotion that season.

Burnley's only previous Premier League visit to Craven Cottage was in February 2010 – they lost 3-0.

In all competitions, Fulham have won just once in their last eight matches against Burnley (D2 L5).

Burnley haven't lost any of their last 10 Premier League games against newly promoted opposition (W2 D8), though five of their last seven of these meetings have ended goalless.

Fulham have failed to win either of their two Premier League games this season (L2) – they last started a Premier League campaign without winning any of their first three games back in 2011-12 (D1 L2).

Burnley have not won a Premier League since mid-April when they beat Leicester

After winning five consecutive Premier League games between March and April, Burnley have gone seven without a win in the competition (D3 L4).

Since the start of last season, Burnley (53 per cent) have won a higher share of their Premier League points in away games than any other side (29 of 55).

Johann Berg Gudmundsson has provided 11 Premier League assists, more than double that of any other Burnley player. Only three of those assists have come in away games.

Aged 18 years and 92 days against Spurs, Ryan Sessegnon became the youngest Fulham player to assist a Premier League goal; the last 18 year-old to assist goals in back to back Premier League appearances was Sheyi Ojo for Liverpool in May 2016.

After failing to win any of their first 10 away Premier League games in London under Sean Dyche (D2 L8), Burnley have since won three of their last six such matches (D1 L2).

FULHAM VS BURNLEY

Kick-off

Sunday, 4pm

Venue

Craven Cottage

Referee

David Coote

Odds (subject to change)

Fulham 1/1

Draw 5/2

Burnley 7/2

Head-to-head league record

Fulham wins 29

Draws 16

Burnley wins 39

How to watch

N/A

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6094413/Fulham-vs-Burnley-Premier-League-team-news-kick-time-likely-line-ups-odds-stats.html

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:10:29 AM

Barnsley to bring in Fulham forward Cauley Woodrow?

Barnsley have reportedly moved to the brink of signing Fulham forward Cauley Woodrow.

The Tykes have enjoyed a strong start to the new League One campaign, but the Yorkshire outfit are in need of a new striker after allowing Tom Bradshaw to sign for Millwall.

According to The Sun, that has resulted in Barnsley making a move for Woodrow, who does not appear to have a future at Craven Cottage.

The 23-year-old has progressed through the academy ranks to net 12 goals from 29 starts and 37 substitute appearances for the first team, but the club's promotion to the Premier League has left the frontman out of the plans of Slavisa Jokanovic.

The report suggests that Barnsley will complete a permanent deal in January after an initial loan agreement.

https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/barnsley-to-bring-in-fulhams-woodrow_334204.html

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:11:54 AM

Fulham's first-team goalkeeping coach Jose Carreira leaves

Fulham's first-team goalkeeping coach Jose Carreira has left the club after just two games of the new Premier League campaign.

The Spaniard was last seen at the club's Motspur Park training ground on Wednesday.

Sky Sports News understand he has not formally tendered his resignation, but Carreira has told the club his family had been unable to settle in England and he has rejoined them in Spain.

However, another source has told Sky Sports News that Carreira left the club after a number of disagreements with members of Slavisa Jokanovic's backroom team.

Fulham signed two Spanish goalkeepers in the summer based on Carreira's recommendation.

Fabri was recommended to Fulham by Carreira

Fabri joined the club from Besiktas for a reported £5m while Sergio Rico arrived on loan from Sevilla.

Fulham are yet to register a point in the Premier League having lost both of their opening games against Crystal Palace and Tottenham.

http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11480912/fulhams-first-team-goalkeeping-coach-jose-carreira-leaves

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:14:44 AM

'To have Fulham back in the Premier League is massive': Ryan Sessegnon hails Cottagers return to top flight as he's awarded Home Grown Debut Ball

Ryan Sessegnon was awarded a Home Grown Debut Ball by Premier League
He received the award along with Fulham team-mates, Joe Bryan Cyrus Christie
Sessegnon has revealed the Premier League has been a big step up for his team

Fulham star Ryan Sessegnon was awarded a 'Home Grown Debut Ball' by the Premier League after he made his first appearance in the top flight against Crystal Palace two weeks ago.

The 18-year-old started both of Fulham's games so far this season as they lost 2-0 to Palace and 3-1 to Tottenham last weekend.

Sessegnon was one of three Fulham players to receive the award, along with fellow home grown talents, Joe Bryan and Cyrus Christie.

Ryan Sessegnon was awarded a Home Grown Debut Ball by Premier League

Joe Bryan (left) Sessegnon (centre) and Cyrus Christie (right) all receive Debut Ball's

Speaking at Fulham's Premier League Home Grown Debut Ball presentation, Sessegnon said: 'We've all been really excited to get going this season. To have Fulham back in the Premier League is massive for us, the fans, and everyone associated with the club.

'Even though we didn't get the result we were looking for in that first game, from a personal point of view I was happy to make my Premier League debut.'

The award is given to home grown players who appear in the Premier League. To qualify as 'home grown', a player must have been in an English or Welsh academy for three years between the age of 15 and 21.

Sessegnon (right) made his debut against Crystal Palace two weeks ago

Sessegnon admitted that it had been a tough start to life in the Premier League and a big step up for what he had been used to in the Championship, but he's determined to improve throughout the season.

'I always give 100% every time I play for this club, this is the club I know, the club that I've come through and I get a lot of pride playing for Fulham. No games are easy in this league, they're all battles, and I'll be looking to improve throughout the season.

'You get less time on the ball and the skill levels are really impressive but it's about adapting and that's what I'm hoping to do for the games ahead.

'We've got a few new boys in the team so we won't be too hard on ourselves, we know that we've got good players here and we'll be raring to go for the next game.'

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6094789/Ryan-Sessegnon-hails-Cottagers-return-Premier-League-hes-awarded-Home-Grown-Debut-Ball.html

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:16:37 AM

Next up: Burnley (H)

It feels strange to have watched Fulham lose both matches played this season yet still feel very optimistic about this season. In both games we have played this so far I have been very impressed by aspects of Fulham's game, particularly when you consider the sheer number of new players brought in over the summer months. I watched Crystal Palace on Monday night against Liverpool, and I have no doubt that they should be finishing in the top 10 this season, so the fact that we played so well against them, generally speaking, reassures me that we can still hurt teams this season. However, the honeymoon period is over for me. No matter how well we play, we will need to start picking up points sooner rather than later.

We should be targetting 3 points this weekend against a Burnley side who haven't started the season well and are dealing with European commitments for the first time in decades. They were last seasons surprise packages, so they aren't a side to be taken lightly, but in the Premier League, you have to take advantage of the opportunities you have. Taking on the Clarets at Craven Cottage just days after they were well beaten in Greece in the Europa League after playing with 10 men for the majority of the game, is one of those opportunities. Tired, jet lagged and demoralised after their poor start to the season, it's important that we take advantage.

The Danger Zone

While I think that we are capable of taking maximum points this weekend given Burnley's current predicament, that isn't to say that this will be be straightforward. I've had a look at the statistics and noticed a few things that we will need to be aware of going into this game. The main one is that after just two games, Burnley are the second in the league for crosses into the box with 52 so far. Our defence has already conceded 5 goals, and it looks like Jokanovic doesn't know what his best back five is quite yet. We are vulnerable here, so the mass of crosses is something that we will have to be prepared for.

The Target Zone

Where can we hurt Burnley? Last season they were so compact and teams found it very hard to break through them, but so far this season it has been different. I know we are only two games in, but they are in the bottom three for both tackles and interceptions, so Fulham's quick passing could potentially cause them serious problems.

The Team

I'm expecting one change at least with Schurrle coming back in for Kamara, but Anguissa and Fosu-Mensah could keep their places from Saturday. I'm still happy for Fabri to stay between the sticks, but I don't think the defence will change until Ream and Mawson are fit again.

My Starting XI- Fabri, Fosu-Mensah, Le Marchand, Chambers, Bryan, Anguissa, Cairney, Seri, Sessegnon, Mitrovic, Schurrle

http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/08/next-up-burnley-h/

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:17:55 AM

Pundit Reckons It'll End All Square On Sunday

Burnley are the visitors to Craven Cottage this Sunday as Fulham go in search of that first Premier League win of the season.

Hopefully, Burnley will be a little tired after their Europa League exertions, in Athens, on Thursday evening and Slavisa Jokanovic can orchestrate a home win.

However, one employee of the BBC, doesn't believe that Fulham will get that elusive first Premier League win of the 2018 / 2019 season.

Mark Lawrenson, who predicts the Premier League scores on a weekly basis, has had this to say about Fulham ahead of the fixture with Burnley,

"Fulham are an open, engaging team but, having scored just once in their opening two games, I am not sure they have that cutting edge up front."

On that basis, Lawrenson is predicting the game will finish 1-1.

Is that a view you concur with or has Lawrenson got it totally wrong.

https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/pundit-reckons-itll-end-all-square-on-sunday/

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:18:46 AM

Woodrow Departs

Cauley Woodrow has left the Club to join League One side Barnsley.

The 23-year-old has initially agreed a loan deal with the Tykes, which will be made permanent in January.

Woodrow had been at Fulham for more than seven years, and enjoyed success as he progressed through the ranks, winning the Premier Academy League in each of his first two seasons with the Under-18s – the second as captain – as well as the Dallas Cup.

His first taste of senior football with the Whites came in the top flight in 2013/14, where he made six appearances and scored his first Premier League goal on the final day of the season in a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace.

The former England Under-21 striker departs the Club having made 66 appearances and scored 12 times, including our 2016/17 Goal of the Season.

Everyone at Fulham would like to thank Cauley for all his efforts and contributions during his time in SW6, and wish him the best throughout his career.

http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/august/24/cauley-woodrow-departs

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:20:29 AM

Cauley Woodrow: Barnsley sign Fulham striker on loan before permanent move

Cauley Woodrow scored two goals in 15 appearances for Bristol City in 2017-18

Barnsley have signed Fulham striker Cauley Woodrow on loan until January, when the deal will become permanent.

The 23-year-old scored eight times in 54 league appearances for the Craven Cottage side.

The former England Under-21 international also had loan spells with Southend, Burton and Bristol City.

Woodrow, who could make his debut against Scunthorpe on Saturday, will replace Tom Bradshaw after he joined Millwall on Thursday.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45302805

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:22:21 AM

Gareth Southgate to consider Ryan Sessegnon and Joe Hart call-ups after watching Fulham vs Burnley

Ryan Sessegnon has impressed the England manager in his debut season in the Premier League Credit: Getty images

Gareth Southgate is considering calling up Ryan Sessegnon to the England squad while he will give Joe Hart another opportunity to be included as back-up goalkeeper.

The expectation remains that the England manager will turn to Southampton's Alex McCarthy as his third goalkeeper to first-choice Jordan Pickford – with Nick Pope out injured - and his under-study Jack Butland but Southgate will take in Burnley's trip to Fulham on Sunday to watch Hart.

Southgate will name his squad next Thursday for the forthcoming Uefa Nations League fixture against Spain and the friendly against Switzerland - England's first matches after the World Cup - and is mindful that he does not want to make too many changes but will continue to give youth a chance.

Sessegnon, who can play at left-back, left wing-back or on either wing, will be called for England sooner or later and was under discussion for the World Cup squad before it was deemed the 18-year-old had played a lot of first-team football at Fulham last season and could do without the scrutiny of going to Russia.

Fulham have yet to be informed whether Sessegnon will be included in Southgate's next squad or whether he will remain with England's Under-21s but it is interesting that the manager is going to Craven Cottage on Sunday.

Meanwhile, with Gary Cahill having not featured so far this season for Chelsea, who play Newcastle United away on Sunday, there is a vacancy in central defence. Southgate is expected to call up Liverpool's Joe Gomez, who would have gone to Russia had he not got injured. He was watched by Southgate in Liverpool's win away to Crystal Palace last Monday when he impressed.

Southgate will also run the rule over Burnley's James Tarkowski who was close to being included in the World Cup squad.

Southgate will attend Manchester United's home game against Tottenham Hotspur on Monday evening along with his assistant Steve Holland. Holland is also watching Southampton against Leicester City on Saturday when he will check on McCarthy and Leicester's left-back Ben Chilwell who is under consideration for a call-up.

Holland will also be at Watford against Crystal Palace on Sunday but it is not expected that there will be significant changes to the squad that did so well in Russia when England reached the semi-finals.

Southgate eventually intends to include Sessegnon, Gomez, Manchester City's Phil Foden, Borussia Dortmund's Jadon Sancho and Leicester's James Maddison but has to weigh up when is the right time to involve them. Ross Barkley, who is playing regularly for Chelsea at the moment, has pressed his claim.

There is also an expectation that Adam Lallana will be brought back into the squad, possibly at the expense of Arsenal's Danny Welbeck, but he has yet to start for Liverpool this season so may have to wait.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2018/08/24/gareth-southgate-consider-ryan-sessegnon-joe-hart-call-ups-watching/

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:23:21 AM

Cottage Talk Podcast: View Of The Opposition - Burnley
Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

This episode is an interview with Jamie Smith and Scott Cunliffe, who both support Burnley, and they were on to give us the Burnley perspective on this upcoming match. This show is our preview episode for this match.

Also, it was an honor to have Scott on the show as he is doing the RunAway Challenge, which has him running to each away match for Burnley, and this time he is running to Craven Cottage. We started the show with Scott talking about this challenge that he runs for charity.

you can listen to the podcast here...
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cottagetalk/2018/08/24/cottage-talk-view-of-the-opposition--burnley

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:26:11 AM

Comparisons can't be drawn between Fulham and Burnley's rise from the Championship

Slavisa Jokanovic doesn't want to draw comparisons between Burnley's European qualification and Fulham

Slavisa Jokanovic believes comparisons cannot be drawn between Fulham and Burnley ahead of their meeting on Sunday afternoon.

Sean Dyche's side were promoted from the Championship in 2016 and went on to finish 16th in their first season back in the Premier League, before finishing seventh last term to gain qualification to the Europa League.

After spending over £100million in the summer and bringing in top quality players like Jean-Michael Seri, some are expecting the Cottagers to not just survive in the top division, but to thrive also.

However, the Fulham head coach doesn't want to make comparisons between the road Sunday's opponents have taken since promotion to the route his side will take, because both are very different.

He said: "Making comparison between Fulham and Burnley is not necessary.

"If I start to compare then we need to be relegated then come back to the Premier League and play in the Europa League.

"It is not our target, they are different places, different players, different club, different situation, but generally it is a great experience, a romantic way that they chose and found a successful achievement in this way so credit to their team.

"It's a problem because in football memory don't exist and we are going to try to look to make them some kind of damage, starting immediately this afternoon.

Sean Dyche (Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, skipper Tom Cairney is the only remaining starter from the last time the two sides met back in the Championship, with Burnley coming out 3-2 winners on that occassion.

A lot has changed since then, and the Fulham captain has gone on to become one of the best players outside the top flight before he gained promotion last season.

But Jokanovic has challenged him to keep improving to get himself to the next level.

He added: "The challenge never stops for us, for them too, and for any club in the world."

"This process is not finished for myself, for Tom too. He, like me and like his teammates, needs make another extra step.

"He has improved definitely but now there is another challenge in front of him, me, the club and his teammates.

"He cannot be satisfied and he needs to push himself to set himself being an important player at a different level like he offer us this great football like he has in the Championship.

"There is a great difference between Tom Cairney today and when we compare him back two years and a half ago but the learning process never stops and I still believe there exists a big gap for him to improve himself.

"Definitely this is one player with some strengths and weaknesses – like me and his teammates – and he needs to work in this way to improve and be important in the Premier League as he showed us he could be important in the Championship."

https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/comparisons-cant-drawn-between-fulham-15067906

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:28:10 AM

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic set to give Alfie Mawson debut in Exeter Carabao Cup tie

Alfie Mawson is set to finally make his Fulham debut against Exeter in the Carabao Cup

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic has revealed summer signing Alfie Mawson is approaching full fitness and is set to play in the Carabao Cup.

Mawson signed in a £15m deal from Swansea earlier in August, though the defender is yet to feature for his new club due to injury.

After undertaking a recovery programme before joining in training with his new team-mates, Mawson is now on the brink of making his Fulham debut.

Jokanovic suggested Sunday's Premier League fixture with Burnley will come too soon for Mawson, but a Carabao Cup tie against Exeter on Tuesday could provide the ideal platform.

"Mawson has started working with us after a long period of being inactive on the field," Jokanovic said.

"He had the last two days training with us, he is going to need the time for building fitness.

"Next week [we will] try to use him some minutes in the Carabao Cup, we still need to decide if we are going to try use him for 45 or 60 minutes.

"We are going to observe the situation but we believe he can start competing with us."

http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11481309/fulham-boss-slavisa-jokanovic-set-to-give-alfie-mawson-debut-in-exeter-carabao-cup-tie

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:29:26 AM

Fulham boss Jokanovic warns Burnley past success will count for little on Sunday

Both sides will be looking for their first Premier League win of the season at Craven Cottage.

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic believes Burnley are at risk of last season's success being swiftly forgotten.

The Serb's team host Sean Dyche's side on Sunday at Craven Cottage, where they will pursue their first points of the Premier League season against a team that has suffered consecutive 3-1 defeats to Watford and Olympiakos.

Unless Burnley's loss of form proves temporary, their attempts to combine domestic commitments with competing in the Europa League could contribute to a difficult season in which Jokanovic suspects their remarkable recent achievements could be overlooked.

The 50-year-old was similarly replaced by Watford shortly after leading them to promotion to the Premier League in 2015, and he said: "It's a problem because in football, memories don't exist and we are going to try to look to make them some kind of damage, starting immediately.

"The challenge never stops for us, for them too, and for any club in the world.

"It is a great experience (for Burnley to be in Europe), a romantic way that they chose and found a successful achievement in this way, so credit to their team."

Unlike Burnley, whose stability has inspired much of their success, in their captain Tom Cairney, Fulham have only one player remaining from the most recent meeting between them in March 2016.

The 27-year-old midfielder has survived the summer investment in new players that exceeded £100million, and largely because of his quality, but Jokanovic has challenged him to prove he belongs in the Premier League.

"He, like me and like his team-mates, needs to make another step," said the manager, who again has defender Denis Odoi available following suspension. "He has improved but now there is another challenge in front of him, me, the club and his team-mates.

"He needs to push himself to set himself being an important player at a different level like he has in the Championship.

"There is a great difference between Tom today and when we compare to two-and-a-half years ago but the learning process never stops and there exists a big gap for him to improve."

http://sport.bt.com/football/fulham-boss-jokanovic-warns-burnley-past-success-will-count-for-little-on-sunday-S11364291238247

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:32:20 AM

Fulham starlet Ryan Sessegnon will have the chance to impress England boss Gareth Southgate when Burnley visit Craven Cottage

Fulham star Ryan Sessegnon will have the chance to impress Gareth Southgate
The England manager will watch Fulham's game with Burnley from the stands
Initial indications are he will remain with the Under 21s for next month's games
However, a storming display against the Clarets could sway the England boss

Fulham wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon will have the opportunity to impress England boss Gareth Southgate on Saturday.

National team manager Southgate has high hopes for the 18-year-old, believing the teenager can be a key man for England's future.

And Sessegnon will have the opportunity to impress Southgate at Craven Cottage on Saturday with the England boss scheduled to attend Fulham's clash against Burnley.

Fulham star Ryan Sessegnon will have the chance to impress Gareth Southgate on Saturday

The England manager will be present for Burnley's visit to Craven Cottage this weekend

The initial indications are that Sessegnon will remain with the Under-21's for the games against Holland and Latvia next month.

But a storming display against the Clarets on Saturday could leave Southgate with a decision to make.

Southgate's presence will also provide Burnley keeper Joe Hart an opportunity to prove he is worth a recall, though Tom Heaton - who was in England's World Cup stand-by list - is pushing for a return after injury.

The 18-year-old has featured in both of Fulham's Premier League games this season

Southgate will attend Manchester United's clash against Tottenham on Sunday where the England manager will check on a number of his regulars.

England No 2 Steve Holland will watch Southampton versus Leicester today, where Alex McCarthy, Ryan Bertrand, Harry Maguire, Ben Chilwell and James Maddison will be on the radar.

Holland will then watch Watford host Crystal Palace on Sunday.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6096359/Ryan-Sessegnon-chance-impress-England-boss-Gareth-Southgate-Craven-Cottage.html

WhiteJC · August 25, 2018, 07:35:19 AM

Burnley's summer signing Matej Vydra could feature at Craven Cottage

Burnley boss Sean Dyche has described summer signing Matej Vydra as a "different kind of player" who enhances the squad's tactical flexibility.

The Czech Republic international has been getting himself up to speed since making his move from Derby County earlier this month but the forward could play some part at Craven Cottage this weekend.

The 26-year-old, last season's Golden Boot winner in the Championship with 21 goals, is pushing to make his senior debut after being included in the matchday squad for the first time in Greece.

Vydra, who provides the Clarets with another option in that number 10 role, was an unused substitute in the 3-1 defeat against Olympiakos in the Europa League play-off in Athens.

"It depends how he fits into the group and understands it," said Dyche, ahead of Sunday's Premier League game against Fulham. "We wanted to operate as we did last season, having a bit more flexibility tactically. "Vyds is someone who can create and score from that position. That's a different kind of player, but then he's got to understand the work side of the Premier League and our group." In the meantime, forward Jonathan Walters could be heading out of the club on loan should a suitable move become available before the window closes next week. Dyche confirmed that he wouldn't stand in his way as the 34-year-old searches for first team football.

The Republic of Ireland international, who has made just six appearances for the Clarets since arriving from Stoke City last summer, including two starts, didn't travel to the Karaiskakis Stadium with Burnley this week, despite being part of the registered Europa League squad. "He's fit and well and he knows that if anything comes available that suits him, that will be the key thing," said Dyche. "But he's a well-respected senior professional, so we make sure we respect him and we do." Meanwhile, Dyche doesn't believe his players will need picking up after the injustice suffered in their Europa League tie in Athens midweek. The visitors were downed by a number of dubious decisions from Slovenian official Slavko Vinčić, with the worst of those arriving on the hour when Ben Gibson was given his marching orders for a highly contentious handball that led to a penalty.

"They just run their club in a manner those choose to do. That's fine and there's no angle to that. If you are a very rich person and want to run your club your way, that's up to you. "This club doesn't. They want to make sure not just the next month, but the next year, two, three years are looked after. "The challenge then is to still be competitive after that. To get a team to develop and win and keep rolling that system out every year. "It does get harder because the numbers keep going up and up. I said a few weeks back we've got to chase the numbers, not be in front of them. "Look at what Brighton and Huddersfield are spending. If they are running away with the numbers, we've got to chase that but not be in front. "If the gap gets too big, then it becomes really, really difficult."

Read more at: https://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/clarets/burnley-s-summer-signing-matej-vydra-could-feature-at-craven-cottage-1-9319607

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