Thursday Fulham Stuff (27/12/18)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Frustrated Ranieri points to positives

Claudio Ranieri was frustrated that his side let a winning position slip against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Craven Cottage this afternoon but believes that Fulham have made significant improvements during his tenure that should hold them in good stead as they battle relegation.

The Italian manager believes he has found a solution to Fulham's previously leaky defence by switching to three centre backs and the Whites certainly managed to nullify Wolves' attacking threat for much of the contest.

    I think they've improved a lot. I think I've found a solution for this team with five at the back. Of course, it's not dogmatic. The team is much better, more solid, and more comfortable. Of course we need something more when we have the ball because when you're bottom, it's not so calm, you're a little more anxious to do something good.

    We have to continue this way. It's the right way. It's the second time we played in this shape and I'm very happy for this reason.

Ranieri was disappointed that Fulham didn't have more to show for their domination of the first half, but was encouraged with the manner of his side's performance against a team that have surprised the pundits and many opponents so far this season.

    We are a little disappointed because I think we deserved more from the first half because we created more than them, In the second half, after we scored a goal, they found a solution. I'm satisfied with our performance, as we worked hard against a good team. It was a tactical match today.

    Mitrovic had a chance to win the match. In this moment, we need to continue to stay together and be positive. When a team is bottom, everything goes against this team, but we are stronger than this. We want to react in every circumstance, in every match. If we continue to fight, train well, understand the tactical movement, we'll do better.

    We try to find a solution, but if you continue to fight, you can change things. If you lose hope, you lose everything. I believe in my players. For this reason, I believe we can make something good.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/12/frustrated-ranieri-points-to-positives/

[WhiteJC]

 
Leeds face transfer battle to sign Fulham goalkeeper Fabri

Leeds are absolutely desperate for another goalkeeper in January, and reports claim they are chasing Fulham shot-stopper Fabri.

What's the story?

According to Turkish journalist Serdar Saridag, Leeds are one of two teams chasing Fabri.

Fabri is wanted by Besiktas fans, as the Spaniard was very successful in his two years there, but Saridag says there is no chance he will return to Turkey with both Leeds and Rayo Vallecano on the chase.

The 30 year-old has lots of competition for places at Craven Cottage with Sergio Rico and Marcus Bettinelli, and a move to Elland Road could be a win-win for all parties.

Bad news for Peacock-Farrell?

Fabri has featured just twice for Fulham this season, but the Cottagers' woeful defensive record is certainly not a stick to beat him with, as both Jokanovic and Ranieri have been unable to find an effective centre back pairing.

The Spaniard made the jump to the Premier League this summer after two fantastic years in Istanbul, where he racked up 66 appearances and one league title.

He conceded just 30 goals in 34 league games last season, and his experience and leadership could be a huge boost for the Whites with Bailey Peacock-Farrell having an unconvincing season.



https://www.footballfancast.com/championship/leeds/leeds-face-transfer-battle-to-sign-fulham-goalkeeper-fabri