News:

Use a VPN to stream games Safely and Securely 🔒
A Virtual Private Network can also allow you to
watch games Not being broadcast in the UK For
more Information and how to Sign Up go to
https://go.nordvpn.net/SH4FE

Main Menu


Tuesday Fulham Stuff (09/10/18)...

Started by WhiteJC, October 09, 2018, 07:20:41 AM

Previous topic - Next topic

WhiteJC

 
Fulham player ratings: Ryan Sessegnon impresses at wing back while Christie struggles vs Arsenal

Defensive concerns raised their heads once more as Arsenal left Craven Cottage with a 5-1 victory

Arsenal came to Craven Cottage and left with a 5-1 victory, despite Fulham getting back to level terms at the half time interval.

Fulham started the game well, pressing hard and forcing Arsenal into mistakes but the away side took the lead just before the half hour mark when Alexandre Lacazette got a lucky break in the box, with Tim Ream touching the ball before the Arsenal man turned and fired into the bottom corner.

The hosts continued to have chances of their own, however, with Andre Schurrle going close in the 42nd minute when Ryan Sessegnon won the ball off Hector Bellerin once again before playing the German in, but he was off balance and his effort was lashed over.

And they got their rewards just before half time when a sloppy pass was picked up by Andre- Frank Zambo Anguissa, who passed to Luciano Vietto who in turn played in Schurrle - the German finishing with a lobbed effort over Bernd Leno.

But it was 2-1 to the visitors just minutes after the second half when Lacazette pounced on a second ball before turning and smashing it into the bottom corner from 20 yards out.

And Arsenal made it 3-1 through Aaron Ramsey's first touch of the ball, as he back heeled it past Marcus Bettinelli into the far corner after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's ball found the substitute.

It was 4-1 in the same sort of vein - Bellerin found space down the right to cross for Aubameyang, who turned his man and fired into the far corner.

And number five came in added time - Arsenal played through a dismal Fulham defence once more for Aubameyang to cooly finish once more.

Here's how we rated the side:

Marcus Bettinelli - 5

His distribution from goal kicks showed a marked improvement, with his constant hitting of Mitrovic causing Arsenal problems. Made a couple of decent stops but really couldn't do much about the goals, which is becoming somewhat of a theme.
Maxime Le Marchand - 5

Showed some great awareness to clear the ball under heavy pressure from Lacazette. A decent performance from the Frenchman.

Denis Odoi - 5

Started well and made a number of good tackles over the opening exchanges. Had a decent game in the heart of defence.


(Image: Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

Tim Ream - 5

Strong start in the air for Ream, who was the leader of a back three that included Odoi and Le Marchand. Got a bit too tight to Lacazette for the opener, who was able to turn him and fire home.

Cyrus Christie - 3

Started okay going forward but was caught out of position down the right for Arsenal's first goal. The right was a worry all game for Fulham, with Arsenal causing problems time and time again down that flank.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa - 4

Deployed in the defensive midfield role to cut up Arsenal attacks and got some success but was largely ineffective in the opening half hour. Bit of a day to forget for Anguissa.

Jean-Michael Seri - 5

Just a yard off the pace in the first half but got on the ball and looked to make things happen for Fulham in the final third.

Andre Schurrle - 5

Lovely finish to drag Fulham level. Was moved out right to try and get more width on that flank but wasn't really able to deliver the final ball into the box.


(Image: John Walton/PA Wire)

Luciano Vietto - 6

Once again, was very good on the ball and showed a great turn of pace. Better decision making to play in Schurrle for Fulham's opener.

Ryan Sessegnon - 7

Played at wing back and did a good job in both attack and defence. Was all over Bellerin and did a really good job on him. Was quieter in the second half after being moved to left back.

Aleksandar Mitrovic - 5

His physicality up top cause Arsenal problems in the first half, especially from goal kicks. Started to come deep to get involved in the game as Fulham struggled to find their striker.

Subs -

Aboubakar Kamara - 5

Took a while to get into the game, but as he did it was clear his pace could cause problems if he was able to use it.

Kevin McDonald - 5

Came on in a like for like swap for Anguissa and did okay in the middle, but Arsenal did break through the Fulham lines with ease at times.

Stefan Johansen - 5

Had very little time to affect the game at 4-1.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-player-ratings-ryan-sessegnon-15248938

WhiteJC

 
Report: Blues Under-23s 1 Fulham Under-23s 2

Blues were left frustrated after laying siege to Fulham in their opening game of the Premier League Cup.

Tommy Anderson got a goal back with a crisp, low drive from 25 yards that skidded in.

But Blues were unable to add to that 65th minute strike as Fulham sat deep and protected a two-goal lead built in the first-half, through goals by Luca De La Torre and Harvey Elliott.

Dan Scarr had a header acrobatically cleared off the line just before the break.

And after the interval Blues played higher up the pitch and were more aggressive and Fulham had to rely on counter-attacks at Solihull Moors.

"We penned them in in the second-half, but we just couldn't find another goal or two," reflected Senior Professional Development Coach Richard Beale.

"They finished well for their goals, they stuck away two half-chances really.

"Tommy's was a good finish, and he played very well for us. But it was frustrating for us.

"We ended the game very strongly against a Category One Premier League team but, to be honest, it was there for the taking."

Blues switch their attentions to the Birmingham Senior Cup on Tuesday with a trip to Coventry Sphinx in the First Round (7.45pm).

Blues: Siviter, Martin, Burke, Bajrami, Scarr, McCoy, McGlip, Augustin, Anderson, McFarlane, Hurst (Amartey 74). Subs not used: Redmond, Boyd-Munce, Stirk, Forrest.



https://www.bcfc.com/news/articles/2018/report-blues-under-23s-1-fulham-under-23s-2/

WhiteJC

 
Mark Schwarzer has advice for Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic

Mark Schwarzer played Premier League football for Fulham between 2008 and 2013.

After becoming the first newly promoted side in Premier League history to spend £100 million having sealed their place in the division, Fulham were tipped to take the top flight by storm.

But Slavisa Jokanovic's side have found the going tougher than some might have expected. Despite a couple of impressive attacking displays, the Cottagers are now 17th in the table after winning one of their first eight games.

Sunday's 5-1 home defeat to Arsenal means Fulham have now conceded more goals (21) than any other side in the Premier League. And former Craven Cottage goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer has given Jokanovic some advice as he looks to plug the many gaps over the international break.

"I don't think it's good to concede five at any time," the former Australia number one, who represented Fulham between 2008 and 2013, told Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast on talkSPORT (8 October, 8.30am).

"What needs to happen is they need time. They've brought in so many players, the managers chopped and changed the back four.

"A lot (of new players) came in in the last week of the transfer window. I watched the first game of the season and seven players made their debuts and for me that's too many. He's got to find a line up and stick with it."

A leaky defence is certainly a big concern for Fulham right now, with Jokanovic's side conceding eight goals in their last two league games against Everton and Arsenal.

The former Watford boss switched to a back three against the Gunners with Callum Chambers ruled out against his parent club. But it remains to be seen whether Jokanovic sticks with his new formation next time out.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/10/08/do-mark-schwarzer-has-advice-for-fulham-manager-slavisa-jokanovi/


WhiteJC

 
Tom Cairney's injury set back, 21 goals conceded by October & time - Fulham talking points

Here's what our major talking points are from Fulham's 5-1 defeat at the hands of Arsenal

Tom Cairney suffers injury setback

Fulham's skipper seemed to be on the road to recovery after making a second half appearance in the 3-0 defeat to Everton last week, but once the teams were confirmed he was nowhere to be seen.

Slavisa Jokanovic confirmed after the game that he was injured with what seems to be pains despite clinically being fit, which is a concern for the side.

Fulham have missed their captain - his ability to get on the ball and get Fulham going hasn't been replicated this season, while his know-how of how Jokanovic wants his side to play cannot be understated either.

The Cottagers look an all-round better side with Cairney in, and his absence after suffering an ankle injury against Burnley has been felt by a side who have picked up just two points since.

The good news is that Cairney will eventually be back, but the bad news is that there doesn't seem to be a timeframe on when that may be.

The last thing that Fulham needed this season was having their key player out injured in the opening few weeks as a new-look side started gelling, but that's the situation they face now, although the international break provides a good opportunity to recover and go again.

Three centre backs worked well

Jokanovic had trialled using three centre backs in the Carabao Cup win over Millwall towards the end of September and he plumped for it for the first time in the Premier League against Arsenal.

Tim Ream, Denis Odoi and Maxime Le Marchand were used as the three centre backs, with Cyrus Christie and Ryan Sessegnon deployed as wing backs.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

I felt that it worked well for the first half - Fulham deserved to go in level with Arsenal.

The three centre backs worked well as a unit, while Sessegnon did a very good job in the left wing back position and caused Hector Bellerin all manner of problems in the first 45.

Jokanovic is still looking for a new system that works with the players that were brought in during the summer and one that makes the team more defensively sound.


(Image: John Walton/PA Wire)

It's worth remembering that with so many new faces coming in over the summer, Jokanovic had very little time to implement his tactics and shape on his side before heading into a Premier League season, something that was always going to cause problems.

I can see Jokanovic going forward with the three at the back formation - it seemed to suit the players, now it's just a case of drilling it to make the side more defensively sound and more comfortable with it.

Cyrus Christie's nightmare afternoon

If anyone wants to forget the afternoon of October 7, it'll be Cyrus Christie.

After Timothy Fosu-Mensah's injury last week at Goodison Park, Christie came in as the starter against Arsenal and endured a terrible time.

He was constantly caught out of position and looked like he lacked the confidence to take on his man and put a ball into the box, instead choosing to cut back and look to his central midfielders instead.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Fulham's attack relies on their wide players to get forward, beat their men and get balls into the box, but that's been lacking this season and it was evident once more against Arsenal.

Sessegnon did a really good job on the far side and got a few balls into the box, but if we compare it to what Arsenal did, we can see how far away Fulham are from delivering that bit of quality into the box for Aleksandar Mitrovic to feed off.

But back to Christie's performance, unfortunately I don't think he's up to the level required of full backs in the Premier League, and while I'd love to be proved wrong, I think the right back spot is Fosu-Mensah's.

Luciano Vietto - another assist, but more to come

Luciano Vietto got himself another assist for Fulham, making it four in total for the Atletico Madrid forward so far this season.

Despite that impressive haul, I still think there's more to come from the Argentine.

He seems to blow hot and cold at times - his acceleration after receiving the ball is one of his better qualities, but his decision making leaves a lot to be desired at times.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

However, his pass to Schurrle for the Fulham goal was perfect - the timing of the pass and the weight of ball meant all Schurrle had to do was finish, so that proves that Vietto is able to produce that kind of final quality.

However, if we look back to the 3-0 defeat at Everton, that wasn't on show.

He had the chance to play in Schurrle at 0-0 but instead didn't look up to see the option, while when it was his turn to be played through by the German a heavy touch meant the chance went begging.

It's those little differences that mean Fulham either win a game or come away with nothing, so while I think Vietto had a decent game against Arsenal, I still want to see more from him in the coming weeks and months.

21 goals conceded by October - something needs to happen

21 goals conceded, and it's only October 8.

That is a huge worry as Fulham shipped five against Arsenal, who in the second looked like they could score with any attack.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

The side's defensive frailties are clear to see so far this season, and for me that's because of two things.

One, the way Fulham play football is always going to mean they're liable at the back and there will be times when they concede goals.

But two, and more importantly, is that the team haven't had the necessary time to learn how Jokanovic wants his team to set up.

Why is that?


(Image: Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

I think it's down to the amount of players that were signed late in the window, meaning there was a small window for the head coach to use the pre-season to implement his style of play, tactics and shape on those new faces.

Five came on deadline day, meaning Fulham went into the opening game of the season in near enough the same way that some teams went into the first game of pre-season - with a team trying to learn new tactics.

We're entering another two-week international break now, but the best way for a team to gel and get used to tactics is by playing football matches, and with Cardiff City and Huddersfield Town coming up, those games will prove pivotal in more than one way.

Now is not the time to panic

Finally, now isn't the time to panic.

I've seen a few tweets over the weekend suggesting that it's time for Jokanovic to be sacked after Fulham's start to the season, which I think is a nonsense.

Fulham are a team still gelling - 12 new faces came over the summer, that's 12 new players that need time to adapt to moving to London, to starting a new way of life, to learning new tactics, to learning a new language, to developing bonds with new team mates - the list goes on and on.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

All that is even tougher when players are signed later in the window, look at the line-up from the final game of pre-season and out of the new signings, only Fabri, Maxime Le Marchand, Jean-Michael Seri and Andre Schurrle started (and Aleksandar Mitrovic if you're counting him).

The quality of players that Fulham brought in will see them safe, but no matter how good a player is, they need time to adapt and settle in a new place.

Now imagine having 12 of those and you get a problem like Fulham's at the moment.

Jokanovic knows the solution to the problems are in his and his players' hands, and I have no doubts they'll find it, and time is the key ingredient to that problem.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/tom-cairneys-injury-set-back-15251701

WhiteJC

 
Nathaniel Clyne deserves to be playing and Fulham would be a perfect home for him



Fulham fans will be disappointed at the manner of defeat as the Cottagers were thrashed 5-1 by Arsenal at the weekend.

Slavisa Jokanovic spent heavily in the summer, but his Fulham side are yet to produce the goods on the field. Fulham simply couldn't handle Arsenal's attackers with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette causing problems throughout the affair. The result leaves Fulham 17th in the Premier League with their lowest points total ever in a Premier League season after eight games.

With Timothy Fosu-Mensah currently sidelined with an injury, Fulham would be wise to target a right-back when the January transfer window reopens. With the Cottagers struggling defensively, a move for Liverpool defender, Nathaniel Clyne, would be a smart move.

Valued at £18m by Transfermarkt, the former England international has struggled with injury in recent seasons and has slipped down the pecking order at Anfield. His injury allowed Trent Alexander-Arnold to make the right-back role his own and Clyne was overlooked at the weekend with Klopp opting to use Joe Gomez instead. With his route back into the first-team blocked, an exit may be the only move.

Clyne remains a top defender with a vast amount of Premier League experience that could be extremely useful to Jokanovic's side. With over 170 appearances in the division, he would add some much-needed stability to the back four. Still only 27-years-old, Clyne has many years left at the highest level.

Liverpool are unlikely to command a huge fee for his services given his bit-part role at the club, if he can put his injury troubles behind him, it would be a masterstroke signing.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham/nathaniel-clyne-deserves-to-be-playing-and-fulham-would-be-a-perfect-home-for-him/

WhiteJC

 
Neeskens Kebano makes Fulham's injury list shorter after recovering from ankle knock

The 26-year-old had been out since August with an ankle injury but has returned to training

Neeskens Kebano will head off on international duty for DR Congo having recovered from an ankle injury that has ruled him out since August.

The 26-year-old was stretchered off in the 2-0 victory over Exeter City in the Carabao Cup second round tie at Craven Cottage, with Slavisa Jokanovic confirming the winger had suffered an ankle injury.

It came just days after Tom Cairney also suffered a similar injury against Burnley in the Premier League, although Cairney has since managed 36 minutes of football but has now suffered a set back in his recovery.

However, Kebano has now returned to full training at Fulham and has been selected by DR Congo for their games Zimbabwe in their Group G top-of-the-table clash during this international break.

Kebano has found game time hard to come by this season and has only played once for Fulham so far, with that game against Exeter in the cup his only outing for Jokanovic.

His return makes Fulham's injury list just that little bit shorter, but the side are still without Cairney, Timothy Fosu-Mensah (shoulder) and Joe Bryan (hamstring) heading into the international break.


(Image: Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

There's no time frame set on Cairney's return, while Fosu-Mensah has been doing gym work since dislocating his shoulder against Everton and could be back in contention after the break, with the Manchester City cup game looking the likeliest return date at the moment.

Bryan is also in contention to return from his hamstring tweak after the international break.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/neeskens-kebano-makes-fulhams-injury-15252668


WhiteJC

 
Corney & Barrow to supply Fulham FC

Two of London's oldest institutions, Fulham Football Club and wine merchant Corney & Barrow have signed a three-year partnership.

Beginning this 2018/19 season, the deal will see the fine wine merchant supply a wide range of wines at the club's home ground, Craven Cottage, beside the River Thames.

Fulham's chief revenue officer, Casper Stylsvig, said: "We were impressed with Corney & Barrow's attention to detail and objectives in helping to enhance the match day experience at Craven Cottage through their varied offering of quality wines.  We are delighted to welcome them on board as an official partner."

Corney & Barrow's catering and hospitality sales manager, Olivia Marsh, added: "We are so excited to have formed a partnership with Fulham FC. When you come to the grounds to watch a game it really is a magical experience. We hope to enhance the memory further by offering fans a diverse and quality range of wines to discover and taste."



https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2018/10/corney-barrow-to-supply-fulham-fc/

WhiteJC

 
Jean-Michael Seri scouting report: One-time Arsenal target desperate for Tom Cairney to return

Seri was heavily linked with the Gunners in the summer - we took a look at how he did against them in Fulham's 5-1 defeat

Arsenal were heavily linked with Jean-Michael Seri over the summer before he signed for Fulham - and the 27-year-old came face to face with the Gunners on Sunday.

Prior to the game, it seemed to look like one that Seri could thrive in.

So far for Fulham this season, he's had the most passes and touches, while heavily contributing to the tackle and interception stats at Craven Cottage as he's enjoyed a decent start to life in west London.

Against Arsenal, a team who like to play football like Slavisa Jokanovic's side, it looked like Seri would be given the space to get onto the ball and get Fulham ticking, exploiting Andre Schurrle and Luciano Vietto's runs in behind the Arsenal back four.

However, Granit Xhaka and Lucas Torreira were well marshaled and did a decent job on nullifying Seri's impact, although the midfielder did manage to see lots of the ball throughout the game.

We kept an eye on Seri to see how he did against a side like Arsenal.

0-15 minutes

A quiet start for Seri, but he looked to come collect the ball deep in midfield in the opening stages before opening his body to play simple passes to his wing backs.

Played the more advanced of Fulham's two central midfielders, with Andre-Frank Anguissa tasked with breaking up Arsenal's attack, giving Seri license to press high and force errors.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Showed a few neat touches in tight areas to move the ball into the forward third but a missed interception on the 13th minute lead to a dangerous Arsenal attack that was snuffed out by Denis Odoi.

15-30 minutes

Almost delivered a defence-slicing first time pass in the 18th minute after a botched Arsenal clearance, but the ball was just overhit.

What it did show, however, was the vision and awareness that Arsenal were pushing men up, leaving both Aleksandar Mitrovic and Andre Schurrle open in space.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Had an effort on goal after picking up the ball in space that smashed into Mitrovic on the way through to goal.

Seemed to know exactly when to go forward and when to cover Anguissa, which was crucial to how Fulham had started the game.

30-45 minutes

Started the second third of the game with some more good awareness on the edge of the box, taking a touch and playing it to Mitrovic before offering himself for the ball again, eventually leading to an Anguissa strike.

He did, however, lose the ball in a dangerous area seconds later that led to another Arsenal attack - this time Marcus Bettinelli coming to the rescue for the Ivory Coast man.

Attempted to get onto the ball and makes something happen for his side after the Arsenal goal, but was unable to probe Arsenal's back four much.

Started to use his body well to shield the ball and looked a lot livelier after Schurrle had grabbed his side the equaliser.

Overall, he was just a yard off it in the first half of the game but was doing enough to make sure he kept ticking over.

45-60 minutes

Started to make a few decent runs in off his wing backs, something he hadn't done too much in the first 45 minutes at Craven Cottage.


(Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Also started to see more of the ball in the final third as Fulham changed shape and was involved in a great battle with Granit Xhaka for control of that area.

60-75 minutes

Fulham were very much in the ascendancy in this period of the game, with Seri seeing lots of the ball in the middle of the pitch.

He started to display his passing range too - spraying it left and right as he looked for the best options going forward.

Picked up a yellow for a foul on Xhaka, which seemed like retribution from Seri for an earlier foul the Arsenal man had left on his ankle.


Tom Davies of Everton slides in to tackle Jean Michael Seri (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

75-90 minutes

Fulham's heads had dropped by this stage in the game, with Seri's influence on proceedings also waning having picked up that yellow card a few minutes prior.

Arsenal started to get a hold of the game here, meaning Seri saw less of the football and was drawn into a more defensive role as the Gunners started to run a bit riot.

The verdict?

Seri was, perhaps, one of the better players on the pitch for Fulham and looked to make things happen, but his performance won't have made Arsenal fans feel like they had missed out on him in the summer.


(Image: Christopher Lee/Getty Images)

That said, he looks a different player without Tom Cairney beside him.

With the skipper injured, Seri is the man to get Fulham ticking along and to win the ball in a box-to-box midfield role, and I think he needs someone like Cairney next to him to bring out the best in him.

His early season performances seem to support that, so despite a 6/10 performance from Seri on Sunday, I'm looking forward to seeing both him and Cairney back together in that midfield.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/jean-michael-seri-scouting-report-15249138

WhiteJC

 
Back The Three Lions

Join us for international football this Tuesday, 9th October, as England Women take on Australia at Craven Cottage (7pm).

Following a 1-0 victory over Brazil at Notts County's Meadow Lane on Saturday, the Lionesses head to the capital for the first time since 2014.

Be part of the action and get behind the Three Lions as they prepare for next Summer's FIFA Women's World Cup.

Tickets are just £10 adults and £1 concessions and available to buy now online (24 hours a day, seven days a week), by phone on 0203 871 0810 in person from the Fulham Ticket Office (Ticket Office open 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday).



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/october/08/england-australia-tickets


WhiteJC

 
"They think I'm mad" – Fulham player on public transport use and national team snubs

Suspended for the first two games of the season, Denis Odoi is back in the Fulham starting lineup under Slavisa Jokanovic, and he's doing so at centre-back.

Playing most of his career as a right-back, the 30-year-old was used as a makeshift central defender last season, ended up doing well, so when asked by his manager where he'd like to continue going into the Premier League campaign, he told him he wanted to remain there.

This is one of the many things Odoi discussed with DH over the weekend in a lengthy interview, welcoming the outlet at Craven Cottage and opening up about his new life.

Playing in Belgium's second league just three years ago, the defender has yet to fully take in how far he's come over the past three years, especially now that he's playing in a new position, where he's technically the shortest centre-back in the Premier League.

Explaining 'it's a shame' that Roberto Martinez has yet to come see a Fulham game, Odoi feels he could bring something to his country, especially since he 'doesn't think' some of the players getting called up to the Belgium squad, like Christian Kabasele, are better than him.

Fully settled in London, the defender is thrilled with his life, even enjoying the fact he's not that well known on the streets, allowing him to be a normal person when he steps out of his house.

He even shocked DH when he told them he takes the tube to the centre of the city.

He said: "Well, yeah. A bus and then the tube and I'm there. My teammates tell me I'm crazy, that I have enough money to take my car or an Uber, but it's just quicker that way.

We were staying at a hotel before the Watford game and a teammate saw me at the bus stop. He thought I was mad, but they're the crazy ones wanting to get stuck in traffic."

Unsure if he's peaked yet, Odoi just wants to continue the season as he's started it, and whatever happens in the future happens.

If that means getting noticed by Roberto Martinez, so be it.

If it doesn't, it seems he'll just be happy being able to mingle among the masses in the centre of town knowing he did his best, and it's not his fault the Spaniard didn't notice him.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/think-im-mad-fulham-defender-public-transport-use-national-team-snubs/

WhiteJC

 
This time last year: Aston Villa

Very few Aston Villa fans would have expected at the end of last season that their club would have the season that they have had so far.

The Villans came agonisingly close to returning to the Premier League in May after losing 1-0 to Fulham in the play off final. This season, they have only managed to win three games, which culminated in the sacking of Steve Bruce last week.

But when we compare how The Lions have fared so far this season to their playoff conquerers, there are a lot of similarities.

The Cottagers endured a winless October 2017, and finished the month 15th place in the Championship, where Villa sit now. A loss and a draw in their opening games of November saw them sitting in 17th place after 17 games of the season.

However, Fulham were able to turn their season around. The acquisition of Aleksandar Mitrović on loan from Newcastle in January gave the club a new attacking edge and helped rejuvenate their season, and the rest is history.

This goes to show that, despite it looking like fairly bleak times for The Villans, it is not as bad as they think. It is very easy to climb up the table, just as last season showed. The key distinction is that Fulham retained the services of manager Slaviša Jokanović. That doesn't necessarily mean that Fulham were right and Villa are wrong, as the sacking of Bruce may be a catalyst to ignite The Lions' season, but it is the difference nonetheless.

Even when looking at Aston Villa this time last year, they had only won two more games than they have at this stage this season, but circumstances seemed a lot more different for Bruce back then. However, the success that Villa enjoyed as last season progressed created a rod for their own back, meaning that there would be that much more pressure than there was last season.

Football is a funny business, and when looking how Fulham and Aston Villa were performing this time last year, it gives a lot of hope to The Lions for turning their season around. However, only this time next year will we know whether sacking Bruce was the right choice.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/features/this-time-last-year-aston-villa/

WhiteJC

 
Carabao Cup Tickets

Fulham travel to the Etihad Stadium on Thursday 1st November to take on Carabao Cup holders Manchester City in Round Four of the competition.

Tickets for the tie will go on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members from 10am, Tuesday 9th October.

Supporters are advised to check the full pricing table below.


Category  Adult  Over 65s, Under 22s & Disabled      Under 18s
Season Ticket Holders & Members        
South Stand Level 1 & 3  £9  £5  £5
South Stand Level 2  £13.50    £10  £5
General Sale     
South Stand Level 1 & 3  £10  £5  £5
South Stand Level 2  £15  £10  £5

Supporters will be able to secure their seat online, by telephone on 0203 871 0810 (opt 1) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

Tickets will then go on General Sale from 10am, Friday 12th October.

Come On You Whites!

All tickets are subject to availability. Terms & Conditions and booking fees apply.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/october/08/carabao-cup-tickets


WhiteJC

 
Alan Shearer Admonishes Cyrus Christie For Role In 5-1 Arsenal Defeat

Arsenal made it nine consecutive victories in all competitions against Fulham on Saturday with a convincing 5-1 victory at Craven Cottage. Fulham  now lie perilously close to the relegation zone in 17th place and are the only side not to keep a clean sheet in the Premier League so far.

On Match Of The Day, Alan Shearer took a scalpel to Fulham's defensive troubles and singled out Ireland right back Cyrus Christie as a weak link in the Cottagers defence.

Slavisa Jokanovic trialled a back three in defence and Shearer criticised Christie for being lazy in his defensive duties as a right wing back:

    Arsenal identified this weakness which was down Fulham's right side, particularly Christie. And time and time again whether it was Iwobi, Welbeck got into those areas and dominated in that position.

    And it was Christie constantly going forward, no defending. Look, three v three.


    Watch Christie here, he's walking. His team are in trouble here, his thought has to be get back and help. Look at him on the halfway line there, he jogs, Monreal's away and all of a sudden he realises it's too late. Ball into the box, first goal in the back of the net. Punished, cause you're not thinking defensively. It was so alarming.

    I don't want to pick on him, but that was the side Arsenal looked at and that was the side that Arsenal dominated.

Playing in a new system perhaps Shearer could have been more understanding of Christie's performance, but certainly the 26-year-old did not have a good day at the office and with Matt Doherty winning the PFA fan's player of the month, the pressure is surely building on Martin O'Neill to pick the Wolves right back over Christie in the upcoming Nations League ties against Wales and Denmark.



https://www.balls.ie/football/alan-shearer-cyrus-christie-398373

WhiteJC

 
Mixed emotions for England boss Phil Neville ahead of Craven Cottage visit

Phil Neville loves Craven Cottage – but heading into England's match against Australia, it seems Craven Cottage hasn't always loved Phil Neville.

Now the 41-year-old is hoping his Lionesses side can provide fonder memories against the buoyant Matildas, hoping to build on the win over Brazil on Saturday.

Neville's playing career was long and distinguished, but neither adjective could describe his experiences of playing at Fulham's home.

He has vivid recollections of being run ragged by the dynamic Fulham frontlines of the early 2000s with Manchester United, before picking up a serious injury in 2009 when Everton captain.

"It's one of my favourite grounds, for good and bad reasons," said Neville.

"It was always a great atmosphere when United fans got behind the goal and made a big noise.

"We had some really tough games down there against the Jean Tigana teams and Kevin Keegan's side as well.

"Louis Saha and Barry Hayles used to give us nightmares and it could be a torrid time.

"I went there with Everton and did my posterior cruciate there after a tackle from Dickson Etuhu.

"I love the tradition of it, though – the Cottage on one corner and the Thames on the other side. The pitch is absolutely immaculate.

"It should be a really good game between two of the top six teams in the world."

Neville's appointment as England head coach in January captured the attention of the nation, but Tuesday's clash will only be the third time they've played on home soil during his tenure.

Granted, they weren't far afield when they beat Wales 3-0 in Newport to qualify for next summer's World Cup, an emphatic pass of the first test of Neville's stewardship.

But the 59-cap international remains desperate to prove himself to the footballing public on these shores, after a draw in his opening home outing against Wales at St Mary's and the 1-0 victory over Brazil at Meadow Lane.

"The game at Southampton was an unbelievable experience," said Neville.

"I remember standing on the touchline and seeing the 25,000 there, just trying to absorb what was an amazing atmosphere early in my managerial career.

"We have never been let down by our home crowd. England fans turn up in their droves.

"It's only my third at home and two of them have been in Premier League grounds, so it'll be a special occasion and a good test for us."

A block of three friendlies, rounded off by the visit of Sweden to the New York Stadium in Rotherham next month, signify the start of the road to France 2019.

Sealing their spot at the World Cup has allowed Neville to blood an exciting group of youngsters, with Birmingham City midfielder Lucy Staniforth and Arsenal striker Beth Mead among the exciting talents called up for October's double header.

Qualifying tests away to Bosnia and Kazakhstan were aced but didn't provide the intensity of competition nor the calibre of opposition that will be faced next summer.

So booking in friendly tussles with some of the world's best sides is a boon for Neville in his bid to further test the mettle of his squad.

"Two really strong tests against top-ten teams in the space of three days was the physical and mental challenge I wanted," he said.

"It's about raising the bar, raising the standard and ramping up our performance levels ahead of the World Cup."

The Matildas, beaten 1-0 by England in their last meeting in October 2015, come to Craven Cottage in a rich vein of form.

They emerged from last month's highly competitive Tournament of Nations unbeaten, claiming a 3-1 victory over Brazil and holding world champions USA to a 1-1 draw.

As a prodigious cricketer – England's under-15 captain no less – and fan of the game, Neville spent his childhood following fierce Ashes battles with Australia.

While the game might be friendly in name, the boss doesn't expect either side to take a backward step.

"Growing up with cricket, it's always England and Australia games that are the main event," said Neville.

"It's a huge rivalry between the two countries and this will be no different.

"I've seen a lot of Australia recently and they're a good side with improving players.

"I watched all of their games in the Tournament of Nations and they played very well indeed.

"We've not played in London for a long time, so hopefully the big Australian community and the English community come down and pack the ground out."



http://www.thefa.com/news/2018/oct/08/england-australia-fulham-phil-neville-081018

WhiteJC

 
Those Defensive Concerns Surface Again As Fulham Make Their Joint Worst Ever Start To A Premier League Season

Yesterday, I left Craven Cottage shell-shocked.

I knew that facing an Arsenal side in good form would be a tough test, but I never dreamed we'd end up getting thrashed.

All seemed to be going okay when Andre Schurrle equalised but then the wheels came off the wagon in spectacular style with Arsenal demonstrating the difference between a side hoping to finish mid-table and a side harbouring Champions League qualification aspirations.

Once again, our failings were in defence and the statistics show that Fulham are the only side, in the Premier League yet to keep a clean sheet this season.

Furthermore, the five goals conceded make it 21 for the season, the highest number of goals conceded by a Premier League side this season.

As we pointed out last week, some major work requires carrying out on our defensive organisation during this international break.

Following the thrashing, Slavisa Jokanovic fulfilled his media obligations by facing the media and had this to say, as reported by the BBC;

    "It is without any doubt a hard defeat for us, we tried to create things but showed many weaknesses as they scored easy goals.

    "We tried to be offensive and play high with two full-backs to find a solution – but from the second goal it is clear the plan was not working. We really need to work on the weaknesses in the defensive side."


Exactly, we cannot go on conceding as regularly as we have done.

But, trying to put a positive spin on proceedings, Jokanovic added:

    "Conceding goals has to be a worry always. It is a hard result, but today Arsenal showed their quality and pace. We have 90 possible points ahead of us and we need to be brave and keep on fighting."

As far as our points tally goes, Fulham currently have the joint-lowest points total they've ever accumulated after eight Premier League games.

Worried?

I certainly am.



https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/those-defensive-concerns-surface-again-as-fulham-make-their-joint-worst-ever-start-to-a-premier-league-season/


WhiteJC

 
Five-star Arsenal rip Fulham to shreds

By the end, it was a massacre. Arsenal accelerated to their ninth straight league win and there seemed to be an ocean between the Gunners at Fulham by the time that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang rolled in a fifth at the Putney End seconds into stoppage time. The sight of Ryan Sessegnon, disconsolately on his knees after the final whistle in the centre circle, showed just how much this defeat hurt.

It was yet another reminder of how defensive vulnerabilities can be brutally exposed in the top flight. Fulham had began feistily, with plenty of spirit and tempo, penning Unai Emery's side deep in their own half during an opening twenty minutes that saw Slavisa Jokanovic's side dominate possession and create a couple of clear chances. They even had the momentum going in at half-time following Andre Schurrle's sumptuous finish to a flowing move and were arguably in the game until Jokanovic opted to replace Tim Ream with Aboubakar Kamara. Had the French forward directed a header on goal with his first touch instead of it drifting harmlessly wide, who knows what the outcome might have been?

Instead, Arsenal's formidable football, explosive pace in the forward areas and the sort of supreme confidence that comes with winning nine league games in a row took hold. Alexandre Lacazette had underlined his devastating ability in front of goal with two wondrous finishes before a sweeping move that began in the Arsenal right back position after Schurrle's untimely slip ended a promising Fulham attack, led to an impudent flick from Aaron Ramsey completing a contender for goal of the season. The game might have been effectively out of Fulham's reach from that moment on, but Jokanovic would not have been enamoured with the way his charges wilted after that. The Whites appeared to have run horribly out of gas in the final twenty minutes, with Aubameyang slotting home clinically from close range before adding that late fifth. Fulham have a reputation for being welcoming hosts, but this was unforgivable generosity.

Jokanovic's solution to a horribly shaky defence was to deploy three centre backs and give Sessegnon and Christie the license to roam forward from wing-back. The teenage Sessegnon did it effectively, arguably bettering Hector Bellerin in the first 45 minutes, but Christie's limitations at this level were horribly exposed during a chastening afternoon. With Timothy Fosu-Mensah's return from a serious shoulder injury probably more than a month away, right back appears to become another problem position. Most of the problems came down the Arsenal left in the first half and, with Denis Odoi frequently dragged out of position to cover, it was inevitable that the Gunners would eventually fashion a goalscoring chance. Maxime Le Marchand had already produced two last-ditch interventions before Lacazette took the first opening that came his way clinically, spinning inside the box and firing a low shot beyond Marcus Bettinelli, to make light of Fuham's encouraging start, which saw Bernt Leno produce an excellent save from Luciano Vietto's deflected shot and Aleksandar Mitrovic have a strike blocked behind.

As it turned out, Fulham's equaliser just before the break only delayed a deflating second half collapse, but at the time it felt significant. Vietto gleefully seized on a poor Arsenal pass, galloped into space just outside the box and measured a lovely ball through for Schurrle. There was a still a lot for the German to do, but he brilliantly lifted a clever finish over Leto and the home side were level. It was the least they deserved for the spirit and resolve demonstrated in shaking off going behind once again, but Jokanovic will be alarmed at how devastatingly his side fell from that high-octane start for the second week running. The Whites had no answer to Everton stepping up a gear at Goodison Park last Saturday – and you never really felt they were likely to mount a comeback once Lacazette lashed home from distance after Danny Welbeck had flicked on a hopeful long ball from the impressive Lucas Torreira.

Ramsey's first touch was an artful back flick from close range that left Marcus Bettinelli with no chance and capped a mesmerising length of the field move that hinted at the sort of football Arsene Wenger's Invincibles put together in their sleep. You can feel the belief drain away from Fulham's shell-shocked players – and Jokanovic now has a real job on his hands. The Serbian head coach, no closer to knowing his best eleven and with injuries sidelining key performers, has to lift his team ahead of their return to domestic action following the international break, which includes three possibly pivotal fixtures against Cardiff City, Bournemouth and Huddersfield Town. Aside from fashioning a functioning back line, the Fulham boss needs to add more bite to the midfield, especially ahead of that trip to south Wales. The confidence of last May already looks a thing of the past.

FULHAM (3-4-3): Bettinelli; Odoi, Ream (Kamara 54), Le Marchand; Christie, R, Sessegnon, Zambo Anguissa (McDonald 62), Seri; Vietto (Johansen 83), Schürrle, Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Rico, Mawson, S. Sessegnon.

BOOKED: Vietto, Schürrle.

GOAL: Schürrle (44).

ARSENAL (4-4-2): Leno; Bellerín, Monreal, Mustafi, Holding; Mkhitaryan, Torreira, Xhaka, Iwobi (Ramsey 67); Welbeck (Aubameyang 62), Lacazette (Guendouzi 80). Subs (not used): Martínez, Sokratis, Lichtsteiner, Kolasinac.

GOALS: Lacazette (29, 49); Ramsey (67); Aubameyang (79, 90+1).

REFEREE: Paul Tierney (Lancashire).

ATTENDANCE: 25,401



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/10/five-star-arsenal-rip-fulham-to-shreds/

WhiteJC

 
Liverpool outcast wants to 'swap lives' with Fulham player, doesn't seem too happy with situation

Long touted for a transfer away from Liverpool after losing his spot to Loris Karius, Simon Mignolet remains with the Reds as the number two goalkeeper behind Alisson following the German goalkeeper's loan to Besiktas.

Sitting on the bench pretty much every week, the Belgian shot stopper has made one appearance this season, in the 2-1 loss to Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, losing in the last few minutes to a stunning Eden Hazard solo effort.

Unfortunately for Mignolet, his situation is difficult for him to deal with, as explained by his compatriot Denis Odoi, who plays for Fulham at centre-back.

In an interview with DH at the weekend, the London based player said: "Honestly, I'm happy to be in London. When Simon leaves the house, he often gets hailed and even insulted. Here, I'm not bothered. Of course, I'm not Vertonghen or Dembélé.

"It's not the same in Manchester or Liverpool than in London. I can often walk around with Moussa without being stopped. Mignolet has to put a hat on to go to town. He told me he'd like to swap his life for mine."

Extending his contract for five years back in 2016, it's fair to say the goalkeeper had no idea how things would turn out for him, meaning he's kind of stuck at Anfield for the time being, especially with few clubs seemingly interested in his services.

Perhaps a loan in January could help him out, but it remains to be seen if the Reds would be open to him leaving Liverpool, just in case something were to happen to Alisson.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-player-discusses-mignolets-liverpool-situation-goalkeeper-like-swap-lives/

WhiteJC


Cottage Talk Post Match Show: Fulham vs. Arsenal
Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

This is our post match show of the 5-1 loss for Fulham against Arsenal. During the show, co-host Max Cohen, analyzed the key moments of this match.


you can listen to the podcast here...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/10/8/17952254/cottage-talk-post-match-show-fulham-vs-arsenal


WhiteJC

 
Poor Start To The Season For Fulham Could Bring The Panic Button Into Play

Things are definitely not rosy at Craven Cottage at the moment.

After a summer of heavy investment, Fulham have made their joint worst ever start to a Premier League season and are sitting in a precarious place just above the relegation places.

It wasn't the start to a Premier League season we'd envisaged.

But, it seems the 5-1 mauling we received, at the hands of Arsenal, on Sunday, hasn't gone down too well with the Fulham support.

It seems that some are now questioning the ability of the manager who led us out of the Championship wilderness and back into the Premier League, with the following posts typical of the ones we stumbled upon on social media:



https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/poor-start-to-the-season-could-bring-the-panic-button-into-play/

WhiteJC


Supporter consultation on Wembley Stadium

As you will be aware, the Football Association are currently considering an offer from Shahid Khan to purchase Wembley stadium. Mr Khan has made clear that this is not directly related to Fulham, and his continued commitment to the Club playing at Craven Cottage, and building a new riverside stand as part of that long-term commitment to the site.
As part of their decision making process, the FA Council will meet this week and again later this month to discuss the offer, and various conditions that have been attached to any sale. While it is the Board of the FA who will make any final decision, they have sought to take on board the view of the Council.
The two national supporters organisations - Supporters Direct and the Football Supporters Federation (the Fulham Supporters Trust are members of both) - are represented on the Council, and have asked us to circulate the following short survey.
There are a few short questions, including one on club sides playing at Wembley in the future,  and it is particularly important that there is input from Fulham fans - so please take a couple of minutes to complete the survey and help give the supporter representatives on the FA Council a steer.
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/wembley-sale
(As well as chairing our Trust, I am also the Chair of Supporters Direct and a member of the FA Council.)
With regards, and thanks for your continued support for the Trust.
Tom Greatrex
Chair, Fulham Supporters' Trust



http://fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2018/10/8/supporter-consultation-on-wembley-stadium.html