Tuesday Fulham Stuff (01/01/19)...

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Arsenal vs Fulham: Stunned Gunners seek reprieve against Ranieri's men

It was a disasterclass for Arsenal. Poor clearance, sprawling defenders and harebrained challenges. The 5-1 shellacking at Anfield against Jürgen Klopp's men felt like a blitz that the leaden-footed Arsenal players were ill-equipped to deal with. Liverpool's menacing front three pumped in four goals before half-time after Arsenal had opened the scoring.

If Liverpool's first goal could be explained away as a mix-up and an unfortunate ricochet that saw Roberto Firmino produce a no-look finish for the tap-in, the Brazilian's second goal was symptomatic of the state of Arsenal's defenders and defending. Bobby seemed to tap dance through the defence on an ethereal bop beat blaring within the Kop.

Sokratis Papastathopoulos went one way, Shkodran Mustafi went the other and Lucas Torreira's hapless slip made it all worse. Sokratis and Sead Kolasinac gave away two penalties which Liverpool scored to complete the masterclass on how not to defend.

Arsenal coach Unai Emery confirmed as much in his post-match press conference.

"But defensively we need to be stronger, to work. Our defensive moments in our box, it's my responsibility and then we need the balance."

While Arsenal's defending has been questionable for a while, the midfield which had Torreira and Granit Xhaka was overwhelmed in the fixture against the Reds.

Xhaka and Torreira, who are both in Twelve's top three Arsenal players for the season, were played off the park with Torreira winning just two out of his seven attempted tackles, according to WhoScored.



The pint-sized Uruguayan was also partly culpable for Firmino's second goal when he was disposed of the ball by Sadio Mané. His relatively barren dashboard tells the story of his match.

Creatively the Gooners were lacking as Aubameyang suffered isolated in attack. The Gabonese forward had only 13 touches before he was hauled off in the 70th minute. Six of those touches were from kick off.

The Gooners are in need of a response and could bounce back against 19th placed Fulham. They are due a jolt after picking up just four points from their last four games.

Emery is likely to field a more attacking team with Alexander Lacazette returning to the starting lineup and Mesut Ozil (if passed fit) replacing Ramsey.

Though Fulham look a renewed side under Claudio Ranieri, less adventurous and shipping fewer goals, Arsenal still look primed to get the victory at the Emirates.

It took a stoppage time goal from Aleksandar Mitrovic to secure their win against Huddersfield, their first in the last eight matches.

Mitrovic, who has an impressive eight goals in the Premier League, will look to test his might against Arsenal's defence. Though cut from a different cloth to Firmino, the big Serb could hurt Arsenal's misfiring back line just as much.



http://blog.twelve.football/2018/12/31/arsenal-vs-fulham-preview/

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When does the January transfer window open and close? Everything you need to know

Clubs have a month to do their business as they look to boost their chances for the second half of the season

The January transfer window is very nearly upon us with plenty of clubs needing to do business.

The 2018 window saw some big names on the move as the likes of Philippe Coutinho, Alexis Sanchez and Virgil van Dijk secured transfers.

Some have worked out, while others haven't, but that won't stop sides looking to bring in new faces next month.

It remains to be seen which Premier League clubs will be doing business with teams at both ends of the table needing reinforcements.

But how long do clubs have to snap up players?

Here is all you need to know ahead of the January transfer window.

When does the transfer window open?

The Premier League transfer window opens at 12:01 on January 1.

When does the transfer window close?

The window will close on Thursday January 31.

Clubs will be unable to make signings from 11pm - although deals can get over the line if the necessary paperwork is done.

When can players make their debuts?

It has been agreed that no players registered at the start of the window will be eligible to play in matches between January 1-3.

What about in Europe?

France and Germany will play by the same rules as Premier League sides.

The transfer window opens on January 2 in Spain.

In Italy, the window is only open for a fortnight - from January 3-18.

Deals likely to happen

Christian Pulisic could well be on his way to Chelsea amid reports a deal has been agreed with Borussia Dortmund.

Cesc Fabregas and Gary Cahill could be on their way out of Stamford Bridge.

Elsewhere, Manchester United interim boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is set to be given the funds to strengthen his defence - with Toby Alderweireld still a target.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/january-transfer-window-open-close-13795685

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Arsenal Injury Blow: Emery Suffers Fresh Fitness Concern Ahead Of Fulham Showdown

Arsenal have suffered a fresh fitness concern with Ainsley Maitland-Niles a doubt to face Fulham on New Year's Day after picking up a knock against Liverpool, according to the Daily Star.

Maitland-Niles started as a right winger at Anfield on Saturday evening and opened the scoring in the 11th minute as he swept home the ball at the far post from a pin-point Alex Iwobi cross to give Arsenal a surprise lead.

The 21-year-old was one of our better players as he was a real threat in behind Andrew Robertson but he couldn't prevent Arsenal from slumping to another heavy defeat against one of the 'big six' as a Roberto Firmino hat-trick helped Liverpool to a 5-1 comeback victory.

Maitland-Niles was able to complete the full ninety minutes but the Daily Star are reporting that the versatile midfielder picked up an unspecified injury at Anfield and is now considered as a doubt to face Fulham tomorrow afternoon.

The news will come as another concern to Unai Emery as he is already having to deal with a lengthy injury list as the Gunners boss looks to try and get our season back on track following a disappointing end to 2018.

Mesut Ozil missed the Liverpool game with a knee injury while Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Danny Welbeck are on the sidelines with long-term problems. Hector Bellerin is also still out with a calf strain so Emery's options down the right will be severely limited if Maitland-Niles is also ruled out.

Stephan Lichtsteiner endured a torrid time against Liverpool and has struggled to cope with the demands of Premier League football since arriving on a free transfer from Juventus last summer so Emery will be hoping Maitland-Niles is able to make a swift recovery.

The boss has been forced to move away from a back three in recent games due to our limited options in the middle of defence with Rob Holding, Dinos Mavropanos and Nacho Monreal injured while Laurent Koscielny is still working his way back to full fitness.

However, given Lichtsteiner's struggles, the Arsenal manager may be tempted to revert to a back three if Maitland-Niles is available as the versatile youngster seems well suited to the right wing-back role.

Arsenal head in to the Fulham game tomorrow sitting five points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea so we desperately need to get back to winning ways before we're cut off from the Champions League qualification places.



https://football-talk.co.uk/145522/arsenal-injury-blow-emery-suffers-fresh-fitness-concern-ahead-of-fulham-showdown/

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Fulham's Aboubakar Kamara racially abused after Huddersfield

Fulham 1 – Huddersfield 0

Fulham left it late to beat Huddersfield Town on Saturday.

Aleksandar Mitrovic scored a 90th minute winner for the Cottagers to boost their survival hopes.

However Fulham's victory could have been wrapped up earlier.

Fulham won a penalty in the second half, however Aboubakar Kamara wrestled the ball away from usual penalty-taker Mitrovic.

Sadly for Kamara, he missed his penalty.

Aboubakar Kamara racially abused

Aboubakar Kamara has suffered racial abuse since his penalty miss.

As reported by RMC Sport, Kamara has been subjected to unacceptable abuse on social media as some have posted monkey and banana emojis in reaction the player's social updates.

Fulham have now issued a statement regarding that racism:

We are aware that numerous hurtful comments have been posted on Aboubakar Kamara's social media account.

As a club that prides itself on our respect and civility, we condemn anyone associated with this repulsive activity.

The club will provide all necessary support to Aboubakar and take the strongest possible action against those responsible.

Claudio Ranieri: I wanted to "kill" Kamara

After the Huddersfield game, Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri revealed he wanted to "kill" Kamara for his penalty miss.

Arsenal vs Fulham

Fulham are back in action on January 1 when they take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal are coming into the match off the back of their 5-1 mauling at Liverpool.



https://www.101greatgoals.com/news/fulhams-aboubakar-kamara-racially-abused-after-huddersfield/

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Fulham vow to take action after Aboubakar Kamara racially abused on social media
The forward was criticised for refusing to allow Aleksandar Mitrovic to take a spot-kick.

Fulham have vowed to take the "strongest possible action" after Aboubakar Kamara was racially abused on social media following his penalty miss on Saturday.

The forward was criticised for refusing to allow the club's designated penalty-taker Aleksandar Mitrovic to take a spot-kick during Saturday's 1-0 victory over Huddersfield while the game was still goalless, and then missing it.

Mitrovic scored in stoppage time to secure a crucial victory but Kamara was later abused on social media and Fulham have promised to act.

"We are aware that numerous damaging and hurtful comments have been posted on Aboubakar Kamara's social media account, and as a club that prides itself on our respect and civility, we condemn anyone who may be associated with this repulsive activity," a club spokesman said in a statement.

"This is not representative in the least of genuine Fulham supporters, many of whom have posted messages of support and encouragement to the player.

"The club will provide all necessary support to Aboubakar and will take the strongest possible action against those identified and responsible for these posts."

Speaking post-match, Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri accused Kamara of disrespecting the club, his team-mates and their supporters through "thinking of himself".

Mitrovic instead insisted he understood why Kamara had acted as he did, saying: "He's a striker, he's hungry for goals as well, maybe he wanted to score as well and he scored his last penalty.

"It's normal. He's young, these kind of things can happen. It's normal.

"You need to take care of each other."

Ranieri also believes their hopes of survival would be strengthened if a winter break was introduced to the English football calendar.

The experienced Italian is managing his third club in English football, following Leicester and Chelsea, and while familiar with the intense run of festive fixtures he is wary of how they will gradually affect his players.

On Saturday they Fulham lost defender Alfie Mawson to a knee injury Ranieri fears could prove to be serious and on January 1 they visit Arsenal, where they will hope to build a sense of momentum.

The boss said: "It's important that the players get a rest. The pitch needs a rest, and the teams that play in the Champions League need a rest.

"In March, April you would feel better if you had two weeks' rest. It would be good for English football to have some teams who fight for the final of the Champions League.

"(But) this isn't frustrating – I accept it. I know the tradition here is good. It's fantastic."

If 19th-placed Fulham were celebrating victory while Arsenal were losing 5-1 at Premier League leaders Liverpool, their manager Unai Emery is still widely considered to have made a promising start to his career in north London.

Like Ranieri, Emery once managed Valencia, and the former Nantes head coach said: "Unai Emery is working well and it will be another tough match for us.

"I've come across him before. Maybe I played against him when he was at Paris St Germain. He's an intelligent and experienced coach.

"He was also in France. When you move countries, you open the mind. Also the Premier League is in my opinion the best league in the world.

"Arsenal are one of the best teams and is working to achieve a place in the Champions League.

"There are so many managers and big champions. When there are more big champions, you have to think more."



https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-vow-to-take-action-after-aboubakar-kamara-racially-abused-on-social-media-37669178.html

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Arsenal team news vs Fulham: Mesut Ozil to be assessed as Hector Bellerin and Nacho Monreal could return

The Arsenal midfielder missed the heavy defeat against Liverpool with a knee injury

Arsenal will give Mesut Ozil every chance of proving his fitness ahead of their New Year's Day Premier League clash with Fulham.

Ozil missed Saturday's 5-1 thrashing at Liverpool with a knee complaint but will be assessed ahead of the visit of Claudio Ranieri's side.

Unai Emery gave a series of short and snappy answers when asked about Ozil's condition after the Liverpool defeat. He confirmed Ozil had a knee injury, but could not predict a date for his return.

"I don't know if it's big or not big, but it's his knee," said the Arsenal manager.

Stephen Lichtsteiner and Shkodran Mustafi passed fitness tests to play Liverpool at the weekend, but the game came too soon for Hector Bellerin (calf) and Nacho Monreal (hamstring).

The defensive duo could feature against Fulham as Rob Holding (knee), Konstantinos Mavropanos (groin), Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Danny Welbeck (both ankle) miss out.

Provisional squad: Leno, Cech, Martinez, Jenkinson, Lichtsteiner, Koscielny, Papastathopoulos, Mustafi, Medley, Maitland-Niles, Xhaka, Elneny, Torreira, Guendouzi, Ramsey, Iwobi, Mkhitaryan, Ozil, Saka, Lacazette, Aubameyang, Nketiah.



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-team-news-mesut-ozil-injury-vs-fulham-latest-update-unai-emery-a8705151.html

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Everton, Fulham table big bids for Liverpool, Arsenal linked defender

Domogoj Vida has been the subject of more Premier League interest, with reports in Turkey claiming both Everton and Fulham have launched January bids for the Besiktas defender.

Vida played a starring role for Croatia as the unfancied European side reached the final of the World Cup in Russia this year, with his displays at the tournament seeing him heavily linked with Liverpool and Arsenal among others during the summer.

West Ham were also in the running to sign the muscular centre-half having seen a bid of €25m (£22.4m) reportedly rejected by the Turkish side, while French giants Monaco also saw an offer of €30m (£27.2m) turned down towards the end of the summer window.

But according to Turkish outlet Fotomac, Besiktas' determination to retain Vida's services have now softened and the Turkish clubs have let suitors know they are ready to entertain offers for the 29-year-old defender.

And it's reported that both Everton and Fulham are the first to show their hand, having both expressed their interest in Vida, who looks set to be allowed to leave for a fee of around €25m (£22.4million).

Of the two, Fotomac believe Fulham are in the driving seat to sign the player, with Claudio Ranieri ready to gamble on the Croatian to add muscle and guile to his backline as they look to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

Vida's agent confirmed earlier this year that the Premier League clubs aren't the only sides interested in his client's signature.

"It is normal for there to be interest what is important is that the offers satisfy Besiktas and then Vida," said Ugur Avadan.

"Liverpool and Everton are huge clubs that have made offers.

"Barcelona scouted Vida and had him on their shortlist but I do not see a move there happening.

"Atletico Madrid and Sevilla are also interested from Spain."



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/everton-fulham-table-big-bids-for-liverpool-arsenal-linked-defender

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Defender offers himself to Fulham ahead of transfer window

Fotospor claim Galatasaray defender Serdar Aziz has offered himself to Fulham ahead of the January transfer window.

Aziz was ruled out of the Istanbul club's last game back before Christmas due to illness, but the player went to the Maldives on holiday that same day.

It seemed like he'd faked being sick to go on his vacation early, but his wife posted a photo on Instagram of Aziz in the Indian Ocean paradise... and it gave the game away.

The Turkish media say as a result the footballer won't wear the Galatasaray shirt again and now Fotospor report he could be heading to Craven Cottage.

According to the Turkish newspaper Fotospor, Aziz's preference is to play abroad if he leaves Galatasaray and the player has offered himself to Fulham via his agent.

It's claimed Fulham had a previous interest in the Turkish international and this transfer could be a possibility when the window opens in January.

Claudio Ranieri will be looking to bolster his defensive reinforcements in the new year and signing Aziz may be an option for the Fulham boss.

The 27 year old has made 15 appearances for Galatasaray this season.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/defender-offers-fulham-ahead-transfer-window/

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Should Aleksandar Mitrovic take the Fulham captaincy off Tom Cairney?

Aleksandar Mitrovic was outmuscled by Aboubakar Kamara when deciding who would take the Fulham penalty against Huddersfield on Saturday, a dramatic flashpoint that raised many questions about the Fulham squad.

Although there was little Tom Cairney could have done about the penalty incident, Mitrovic's magnanimous response and match-winning goal raised questions over who should assume the role of the captaincy in SW6.

Cairney is the longstanding Fulham captain, but during the Whites' promotion season the true vocal presence in the squad was vice-captain Kevin McDonald, who assumed the role in Cairney's injury absence.

A vital player in the centre of midfield and a key part of how Fulham play, Cairney is integral to Fulham — but he is far from the most authoritative and inspiring of leaders.

When Cairney was dropped to the bench against Wolves on Boxing Day, Mitrovic was handed the captain's armband and rose to the occasion, dominating play and urging his teammates on at every opportunity.

And even when the Scot returned to the starting lineup and was captain against the Terriers, Mitrovic appeared to assume most of the captain duties, conferring with the referee, encouraging his teammates, and taking the high road in the penalty dispute.

The Serbian was the designated taker, but when it was clear Kamara would not give the ball up, Mitrovic kissed him on the head and wished the Frenchman luck before the spot-kick.

It was a remarkably cordial gesture after such disrespect, a move worthy of a true leader.

And true to form, Mitrovic bagged the winner in stoppage time minutes later, saving Fulham and even high-fiving Kamara in his celebrations.

Nonetheless, it would be cruel and unnecessarily divisive to strip Tom Cairney of the captaincy and hand it to Aleksandar Mitrovic. Yet the Serbian striker has shown impressive leadership qualities and captain material in recent weeks, even without the official title.



https://tbrfootball.com/should-aleksandar-mitrovic-take-the-fulham-captaincy-off-tom-cairney/

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Arsenal injury, suspension list: Team news for Premier League match vs Fulham

Arsenal could again be without Mesut Ozil when they welcome Fulham to Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.

Ozil missed the thumping defeat to Liverpool with a knee injury picked up ahead of the trip to Anfield.

When asked if the injury is serious, Arsenal coach Unai Emery said: "[It's] His knee. I don't know if it's big or not big, but it's his knee."

Meanwhile, the Gunners are still facing a defensive injury crisis with Hector Bellerin (calf), Konstantinos Mavropanos (groin) and Rob Holding (knee) all definitely out.

Shkodran Mustafi returned for the defeat at Liverpool but was withdrawn at half-time after the Gunners shipped four goals in the first period, while Nacho Monreal (thigh) remains a doubt,

Further up the field, Henrikh Mkhitaryan is out for six weeks with a broken metatarsal, Emile Smith Rowe (groin) remains out, while Danny Welbeck (ankle) is a long-term absentee.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arsenal/arsenal-injury-suspension-list-team-news-for-premier-league-match-vs-fulham-a4027596.html

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The Trials And Tribulations Of Being A Long Standing Fulham Fan In 2018

Our guest writer, Brian Gower, returns with another thoughtful and interesting article.

If like me, you have been a supporter of Fulham Football Club for many years, you have been accustomed to the ups and downs of this wonderful 'family friendly club' and 'away team supporter's joyful trip' to the banks of the River Thames in South West London.

There have been many more 'downs' than 'ups' as we all know, but once the addiction of following this quaint club captures you, you are captured for a lifetime.

With the end of another year upon us, what a year it has been. Starting 2018 near the bottom of the Championship, it looked like another year of disappointment was about to occur after reaching the play-offs and failing at the first hurdle against Reading the season before. How wrong we were.

Jokanovic rallied the players and gave the supporters everything they could have wished for on that great 23-game unbeaten run. Although it ended abruptly meaning another play-off saga was to come, Fulham thoroughly deserved their Wembley win against Aston Villa and a return to the EPL after a four-season absence.

Now we look forward to 2019 and what that may bring to the loyal supporters of this wonderful club. Watching the last game of 2018 against bottom of the table Huddersfield and comparing it with the previous season, is quite a baffling experience but not an unexpected one for seasoned Fulham followers.

Our promotion last season playing some very attractive possession style football was a joy to watch. Turning the possession style tactics encouraged by Jokanovic, into victories gave Fulham and their players rave reviews in the media. Bettinelli for England, Tim Ream fans player of the year, Tom Cairney captain, and the young 17-year-old Ryan Sessegnon, who made the headlines most weeks and watched by top clubs in Europe and at home, and not forgetting the 'fantastic loaned striker' from Newcastle, Mitrovic, scoring for fun.

Suddenly, the excitement of promotion quickly became a nightmare for all these 'wonderful gifted players' as soon as the reality of what their Premier League opponents had in their lockers. From the first match at home to Crystal Palace and the first defeat with no goals scored hit home, the players, and the manager Jokanovic must have realised, there is a huge gulf between playing Championship football and that of the EPL.

Even after spending £100m on 11 new players, it seemed obvious to Fulham supporters that unless you have a team of players such of those at Man City or Liverpool, where players can cost £100m+ each, the possession style of football would not work. Everyone that was, apart from Jokanovic, who repeatedly stated that he would not change their style of play. This, unfortunately, cost him his job.

In came a master Italian defensive minded tactician, Claudio Ranieri. His first task was to stop the defensive errors and become harder to beat. In came Rico in goal, and soon followed a back three with two wing-backs. This total change of tactics was hard for some players to adapt to. Suddenly there was not an emphasis on keeping the ball at all costs. It was to defend in numbers and attack quickly on the break.

Favourites from the season before were being omitted. Bettinelli, Ream, McDonald, Johansen, Cairney and the wonder-kid Ryan Sessegnon were overlooked as Ranieri was after stronger, faster, more ball-winning style players rather than the ball-keeping, passing side-to -ide and backward tactics these players were encouraged to produce for Jokanovic.

So here we are, with Arsenal up next away, second from bottom, and a tough 17 matches to follow. The players must quickly adapt to Ranieri's style of play. Cairney is a very skilful player but needs to be tougher and make those important tackles. Sessegnon, although only 18 must be included regularly and build up some physical body strength. Seri must get up to speed and show more effort to match his obvious skills.

It was woeful the first half against Huddersfield. No tempo, no fight, no desire to push forward and go for the win. Luckily it improved in the second half. As for the Kamara penalty decision to wrestle the ball away from Mitrovic, was appalling to witness at the time, it showed how much he wanted to win.

He decided to put all the pressure on himself to convert the spot kick. If he had blasted the ball into the top left corner of the net all fans would have made him a hero. He missed with an awful attempt and would have learned a lesson he will never repeat again in his career. We all make mistakes. Luckily for all Fulham fans, Mitrovic gave his team the three points with a late winner.

Fulham fans must stay loyal as they always do. Support the team, support the manager. Ranieri is a superb tactician who lives in Fulham. I believe his heart is with the club and he will do everything he can to keep Fulham in the Premier League, but it will be tough.

As always, enjoy the rocky ride, it is part and parcel of the life of being a loyal Fulham FC supporter.

COYW's



https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/the-trials-and-tribulations-of-being-a-long-standing-fulham-fan-in-2018/

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Arsenal squad vs Fulham revealed as Unai Emery considers changes

Emery will be looking for a response after the Gunners were thrashed by Liverpool

Arsenal will give Mesut Ozil every chance of proving his fitness ahead of their New Year's Day clash with Fulham.

Ozil missed Saturday's 5-1 thrashing at Liverpool with a knee complaint but will be assessed ahead of the visit of Claudio Ranieri's side.

Full-backs Hector Bellerin (calf) and Nacho Monreal (hamstring) could also feature as Rob Holding (knee), Konstantinos Mavropanos (groin), Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Danny Welbeck (both ankle) miss out.

Arsenal have now won just one of the last five matches after putting together a 22-game unbeaten run in all competitions earlier in the season.

Manager Unai Emery accepts some work needs to be done on their structure.

"Defensively we need to be stronger, to work," he said.

"Our defensive moments in our box is my responsibility and then we need the balance. We need to keep the balance in the middle.

"We need to be serious and continue on Tuesday with a big match at the Emirates (against Fulham).

"We need to show our supporters there we are standing up after the result."

Provisional squad: Leno, Cech, Martinez, Jenkinson, Lichtsteiner, Koscielny, Papastathopoulos, Mustafi, Medley, Maitland-Niles, Xhaka, Elneny, Torreira, Guendouzi, Ramsey, Iwobi, Mkhitaryan, Ozil, Saka, Lacazette, Aubameyang, Nketiah.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/arsenal-squad-vs-fulham-revealed-13796640

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The enforced absence of Calum Chambers against Arsenal is a hammer blow for Fulham

When Fulham travel to the Emirates on New Year's Day, the Whites will be without Arsenal loanee Calum Chambers as he faces off against his parent club.

The enforced absence of Fulham's standout central midfielder is a hammer blow for Claudio Ranieri's men, leaving the defensive midfield position glaringly sparse.

Chambers began the campaign at Fulham terribly, playing centre-half and failing to show anything resembling top-flight quality. When stationed at right back against Cardiff in October, Chambers produced an abysmal display and lost his place in the squad.

Yet a surprising reprieve arrived in Slavisa Jokanovic's final match in charge, where the loanee returned to the starting lineup and was utilised as a central defensive midfielder.

The decision proved to be a masterstroke from the Serb, as Chambers has been excellent ever since in midfield. Taking cues from coach Scott Parker, the Arsenal loanee is a vital cog in front of the defence, with an ability to read the game and cut out opposition attacks at will.

The combative presence of Chambers will be sorely missed against the Gunners, as Fulham's centre-midfield options are worryingly thin.

Kevin McDonald may be forced to start in the anticipated injury absence of Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, a scary thought for Fulham supporters who believe the Scot is far too slow for the pace of the Premier League.

Arsenal may be ruing their decision to loan out Calum Chambers this campaign, but nonetheless will be delighted their player will not feature for Fulham on Tuesday afternoon.



https://tbrfootball.com/the-enforced-absence-of-calum-chambers-against-arsenal-is-a-hammer-blow-for-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
Arsenal vs Fulham preview: Mesut Ozil given chance to prove fitness
Watch in-game clips and goal as they go in on the Sky Sports app

Arsenal will give Mesut Ozil every chance of proving his fitness ahead of their New Year's Day clash with Fulham.

Ozil missed Saturday's 5-1 thrashing at Liverpool with a knee complaint but will be assessed ahead of the visit of Claudio Ranieri's side.

Full-backs Hector Bellerin (calf) and Nacho Monreal (hamstring) could also feature as Rob Holding (knee), Konstantinos Mavropanos (groin), Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Danny Welbeck (both ankle) miss out.

Alfie Mawson is set to miss the trip to the Emirates. The defender suffered what manager Ranieri fears could prove a "serious" knee injury in Saturday's 1-0 victory over Huddersfield.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa could yet return from an ankle injury, while Ranieri could consider dropping Aboubakar Kamara for a disciplinary matter.

Opta stats

    Arsenal have never previously lost at home to Fulham in any competition, winning 23 and drawing five of their 28 home matches against the Cottagers prior to this match.
    Fulham's only league victory over Arsenal in their last 12 such encounters was in January 2012 (W1 D4 L7), a 2-1 win at Craven Cottage under Martin Jol.
    Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri has never won a Premier League match against Arsenal in 10 previous attempts (D4 L6); he has a worse points-per-game ratio against the Gunners (0.40) than he does versus any other opponent in the competition.
    Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 22 home league matches against newly promoted opposition (W19 D3) since losing 1-0 to Newcastle United in November 2010.
    In all competitions, Fulham have lost 11 of their last 14 away matches (W1 D2), though their one win did come in London against Millwall in the League Cup in September.
    Arsenal have won all five of their home Premier League games on New Year's Day - their last top-flight defeat at home on that day came in 1985 against Spurs at Highbury.
    Claudio Ranieri's last Premier League match on New Year's Day was also away at Arsenal in 2003, when he was Chelsea manager - a 2-3 defeat.

Merson's prediction

The other day was typical Arsenal, wasn't it. I don't know what's changed. I know they went on that run but half of those games, they could have probably lost. Then you go to Southampton, they're settling for a draw and end up winning the game, go to Liverpool and it was same-old, same-old. This one, I'll go for them because... this is Arsenal. They're flat-track bullies, they'll beat the lesser teams all day long.

After the win over Huddersfield the other day, it was a big goal from Aleksander Mitrovic, but I watched them at Newcastle too and they were solid and Newcastle never looked like scoring. I know that attack is nowhere near Arsenal's but they defended well and they'll try that too here. If I was them though I'd try and have a swing, although you don't want to be on the end of a six

MERSE SAYS: 3-1 (9/1 with Sky Bet)



https://www.skysports.com/football/arsenal-vs-fulham/preview/390957

[WhiteJC]

 
Claudio Ranieri should continue to put Ryan Sessegnon on Fulham's bench - for now at least

The 18-year-old is one of Fulham's star players, but could he sometimes be better suited to being a substitute?

It's not a surprise that people are calling for Ryan Sessegnon's return to Fulham's starting XI. In two substitute appearances he has directly contributed to each goal scored by the Whites in both games with a strike and an assist.

Even without that kind of impact it is clear the kind of ability he has, there's no doubting he's good enough.

But as the prototypical 'super-sub' in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer returns to the Premier League, perhaps it is time we appreciate his ability to both analyse and take advantage of tiring defences rather than simply allowing it to be a mythical quality - and perhaps Claudio Ranieri can create players in his mould in an attempt to seal Fulham's survival.

It often feels like substitutes in football are a form of going through the motions but with Ranieri, his Tinkerman moniker is not just superficial.

It was a surprise to see Luciano Vietto start against Huddersfield, a nice tactical twist, but with the Atletico Madrid loanee and Tom Cairney slotting in behind Aleksandar Mitrovic it was impossible for the bench not to catch your attention.

Sessegnon, Andre Schurrle and Aboubakar Kamara would all be donning their tracksuits. None are true strikers, but that is some impressive quality to bring on and change the tempo of any game.


LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 26: Ryan Sessegnon of Fulham looks on prior to the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Craven Cottage on December 26, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Ranieri said that Fulham did not play well in the first half against Huddersfield but it also looked like the Cottagers achieved what they set out to for the most part. There was defensive solidity from the backline and the shape of the whole team was very consistent and denied the Terriers space to truly threaten. The likes of Mitrovic and Vietto were probably too isolated, and the lack of possession and forward play understandably frustrated fans but in the second half Ranieri responded.

The former Leicester boss sent on Kamara and would have also brought on Sessegnon if not for Alfie Mawson's injury, but it wasn't just the personnel that changed - Fulham's style did too. Flashes of last season returned with neat passing exchanges and quick breaks. While it wasn't perfect, it was reassuring to know the team still have that in their locker.

The fact that Ranieri had planned those two substitutes at half time could suggest a graduation of his philosophy since taking the helm in west London. It felt preordained in some way. The cautious approach has been consistent in the 67-year-old's tenure and has reached the stage where individual errors are costing Fulham points.

Against Newcastle we saw something similar. Fulham stayed in the game until late on when Kamara - from the bench - tested the Newcastle defence repeatedly and nearly led his side to a winner. Sessegnon obviously produced against Wolves, while both were asked to make an impact this weekend.

England coach Eddie Jones popularised the idea of 'finishers' in rugby union and there is a growing consensus due to the physicality of the game that those on the bench are as important as those that start. Of course, in part it massages ego but it highlights the importance of substitutes and their role in winning a game.

The two sides of Fulham we saw on Saturday may become more common as they first look to build a platform before truly taking the game by the scruff of the neck and changing the pattern of a match.

Sessegnon may not be a player who will overwhelm tired legs due to his sheer pace and strength, but he will overwhelm tired minds that lack concentration due to his incredible movement.


Ryan Sessegnon is challenged by Diogo Dalot (Image: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Within seconds of coming onto the pitch on Saturday he'd stormed into the box, without anyone marking him, and darted to the front post to to guide a cross just wide. The impact was immediate.

Solskjaer had an innate ability to analyse his opposition while he watched from the sideline and Sir Alex Ferguson always had faith that the forward could deliver the goods as a match wore on. I think Ranieri could find similar strength in using his young star this way, as the intelligence of movement the England under-21 international exhibits will challenge any team.

Of course this kind of role could be frustrating for the youngster who started 45 of Fulham's 46 league games in the last campaign but Ranieri has noted he has doubts about Sessegnon's physicality.


(Image: Clive Mason/Getty Images)

He said: "Sessegnon is young but he is fresh.

"[Sessegnon] needs experience, he needs to play. He is a very good player but of course he must improve his strength.

"When there is a tackle, he is not so strong. He must understand this, be a little more aggressive. But he is young."

There is no doubt the academy product will get time on the pitch, but by introducing Sessegnon later in the game it helps nullify any physical disadvantage he may have.

Against Huddersfield, if nothing else, Vietto made sure his presence was felt by Zanka by consistently challenging him with his pace. The Argentine was on the receiving end of a couple of robust challenges as a result.

We must remember that Sessegnon is just 18, with a long career ahead of him, and sometimes it could be better to not expose him to unnecessary physicality. His progress must be managed so he doesn't burnout later on and he can continue to grow.

We know he's up to the physical challenge but perhaps sometimes we can gain more value from a late cameo. Sessegnon shouldn't by any stretch be confined to the bench for the rest of the season but it's crucial that Ranieri continues to show tactical flexibility and continues to evolve Fulham's play.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/claudio-ranieri-ryan-sessegnon-fulham-15609885

[WhiteJC]

 
Edun Set to Return to Fulham

Town boss Paul Lambert has confirmed that Fulham midfielder Tayo Edun's loan spell with the Blues is being ended early, the England U20 international having been back at his parent club in recent weeks in any case due to an eye injury which has required an operation.

"He's away back to Fulham," Lambert said when quizzed about the 20-year-old's surgery just before Christmas.

"Again, he's Fulham's player and you can't do anything about it. His operation is going to keep him out into the new year, so Edun will probably go back, [that will mark the end of his loan spell]."

Asked whether anyone else is currently lined-up to move on, he added: "Nobody will move on unless I get people in. That's impossible, that can't happen."

Edun made four starts and three sub appearances for the Blues, scoring on his debut having come on as a sub in the opening day 2-2 draw with Blackburn.

The Cottagers' youngsters departure, the exit of winger Jordan Graham who is set to join Oxford and the end of injured ex-skipper Jon Walters's spell from Burnley means the Blues now have three loanees, Trevoh Chalobah, Matthew Pennington and Janoi Donacien until his permanent leave to remain has been confirmed.

Regarding the Town players currently out on loan, Tristan Nydam's half-season spell at St Johnstone is up in January and Lambert is going to speak to general manager of football operations Lee O'Neill about the 19-year-old's situation.

"I'll need to speak to Lee about that," he said. "I've met the kid when he came in a few weeks ago. I spoke to him, so we need to speak to Lee and see what St Johnstone felt about him. That will probably be ongoing.

"He's not played much at St Johnstone [one start and four sub appearances]. When you send people out on loan you've got to hope they play as many games as they can but he hasn't played as much.

"But again, he's a young player coming back and at this moment, in normal circumstances you'd bring them back and have a look at them, but at this moment we need a bit more experience."

Out on loan for the season but with the Blues able to cut their spells short in January are Josh Emmanuel at Shrewsbury, Luke Woolfenden at Swindon and Ben Morris at Forest Green Rovers.

Asked whether he has any plans to bring them back, Lambert said: "They're kids, you're calling back kids to help kids. That's a difficult situation to put anybody in.

"They need a little bit of experience. The younger ones need a little bit of experience to help them, even the lads that have not played at this level for a long time or most of their careers, a lot of the lads haven't played at this level. A lot of them came from the lower leagues.

"That's fine, but they need a bit of help with it and I think that's what we have to get in, we have to get people who know the league, have played in it or have been around the block a little bit.

"You can take one, one can be a risk but you can't do eight or nine or 10, you can't do that."



https://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/35153/edun-set-to-return-to-fulham

[WhiteJC]

 
Games for the New Year
After a win & clean sheet on Saturday we now travel to North London to face Arsenal for our first game of 2019

As a 'by-the-by' the very first game I attended was Fulham v Arsenal on New Years Day 1966, on that occasion we won 1-0, and I was hooked! How much I'd love to see a repeat of 52 years ago.

I'm guessing that AK47 won't be in the squad as a punishment for his penalty antics on Saturday, even if he'd scored I've a feeling that he wouldn't have been included?

Arsenal are having a bit of a bad run at the moment having lost against Liverpool, Spurs and Southampton, drawing against Brighton and only beating Burnley in their last 5 games, so it looks as if they'll be looking forward getting a result against us.

Games of Interest
Tuesday 1st
Arsenal v Fulham
Cardiff v Spurs

Wednesday 2nd
Bournemouth v Watford
Chelsea v Southampton
Huddersfield v Burnley
West Ham v Brighton
Newcastle v Man Utd


come on over to the forum and join in the discussion
http://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?board=1.0



http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=563

[WhiteJC]

 
Arsenal Team News Update: Emery Could Be Without 9 Players For Fulham Clash

Arsenal will be looking to bounce back from their Anfield nightmare when we host Fulham at the Emirates on New Year's Day.

The club have issued a team news and injury update ahead of the game with the latest on Mesut Ozil, Shkodran Mustafi, Nacho Monreal, Hector Bellerin, Dinos Mavropanos, Emile Smith Rowe, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Rob Holding and Danny Welbeck.

Ozil missed the 5-1 defeat at Liverpool on Saturday evening after suffering pain in his knee following Friday's training session and the playmaker remains a doubt for the visit of Fulham on New Year's Day.

Mustafi returned to the starting eleven at Anfield after sitting out our previous five games but the centre-back was substituted at half-time after aggravating his hamstring injury and will need to be assessed to see if he can face the Cottagers tomorrow.

We've been without Bellerin for the last four matches due to a calf problem while Monreal has been struggling to overcome a troublesome hamstring issue in recent weeks. The pair have been pictured in light training today and will be assessed ahead of tomorrow's game.

Mavropanos is close to making his return from a groin injury but the Fulham game comes too soon so he remains out along with Smith Rowe – who's still two weeks away from recovering from a hip problem.

Mkhitaryan is also out for the next few weeks as he's not due back until February from a fractured foot so he's out along with long-term injury victims Holding and Welbeck – who won't play again this season.

The update on Arsenal.com said:

    Mesut Ozil
    Left knee. Being assessed ahead of Fulham (h) on Tuesday, January 1.

    Shkodran Mustafi
    Right hamstring. Being assessed ahead of Fulham (h) on Tuesday, January 1.

    Nacho Monreal
    Right hamstring. Being assessed ahead of Fulham (h) on Tuesday, January 1.

    Hector Bellerin
    Left calf. Being assessed ahead of Fulham (h) on Tuesday, January 1.

    Dinos Mavropanos
    Groin injury. Being integrated back into full training.

    Emile Smith Rowe
    Right hip. Expected to return to full training in two weeks.

    Henrikh Mkhitaryan
    Right foot. Fractured metatarsal. Expected to return to full training in February.

    Rob Holding
    Left knee. Recovering after surgery.

    Danny Welbeck
    Right ankle. Recovering after surgery.

It seems unlikely that Ozil, Bellerin or Monreal will be fit after not taking part in full training today while Mustafi is obviously a doubt so Emery could be without nine players for the Fulham game tomorrow afternoon.

That's a nightmare situation as the Arsenal boss looks to get us back to winning ways after falling five points behind fourth-placed Chelsea in the race for Champions League qualification.



https://football-talk.co.uk/145533/arsenal-team-news-update-emery-could-be-without-9-players-for-fulham-clash/

[WhiteJC]

 
Claudio Ranieri ends row with Aboubakar Kamara after penalty incident

Claudio Ranieri has patched up his differences with striker Aboubakar Kamara over the penalty debacle in Fulham's win over Huddersfield.

After winning a late spot-kick, Kamara stopped designated taker Aleksandar Mitrovic taking the shot and took it himself - then missed.

Ranieri criticised Kamara's behaviour at full-time, labelling him "disrespectful" and said he would consider punishing the forward, perhaps by removing him from the squad as they prepare to face Arsenal on New Year's Day.

But on Monday, he told the club: "Now everything is finished. He came to me after I called all the squad, all the people around us, and they (all) apologised. For me it's finished.

"The team is the first in my idea, if I need him he continues to play but he has to improve what I ask. He's a good guy and I hope also the fans are behind him and all the team."

Meanwhile, Fulham are continuing their investigation into racist abuse directed at Kamara on Twitter, in the wake of the incident at Craven Cottage, where the hosts won 1-0 thanks to Mitrovic's stoppage-time strike.

The club said on Monday that they will take the "strongest possible action against those responsible".



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11595773/claudio-ranieri-ends-row-with-aboubakar-kamara-after-penalty-incident

[WhiteJC]

 
Arsenal v Fulham: Ozil could return along with Gunners defenders, injury blow for Whites

Arsenal will give Mesut Ozil every chance of proving his fitness ahead of their New Year's Day clash with Fulham.

Ozil missed Saturday's 5-1 thrashing at Liverpool with a knee complaint but will be assessed ahead of the visit of Claudio Ranieri's side.

Full-backs Hector Bellerin (calf) and Nacho Monreal (hamstring) could also feature as Rob Holding (knee),

Konstantinos Mavropanos (groin), Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Danny Welbeck (both ankle) miss out.

Provisional squad: Leno, Cech, Martinez, Jenkinson, Lichtsteiner, Koscielny, Papastathopoulos, Mustafi, Medley, Maitland-Niles, Xhaka, Elneny, Torreira, Guendouzi, Ramsey, Iwobi, Mkhitaryan, Ozil, Saka, Lacazette, Aubameyang, Nketiah.

Alfie Mawson is set to miss out when Fulham visit the Emirates Stadium.

The defender suffered what manager Claudio Ranieri fears could prove a "serious" knee injury in Saturday's 1-0 victory over Huddersfield.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa could yet return from an ankle injury, while Ranieri could consider dropping Aboubakar Kamara for a disciplinary matter.

Provisional squad: Rico, Bettinelli, Fabri, Fosu-Mensah, Christie, Odoi, Chambers, Ream, Ayite, Bryan, Seri, Johansen, De La Torre, Anguissa, McDonald, Kebano, R Sessegnon, S Sessegnon, Schurrle, Vietto, Mitrovic, Fonte, Cairney, Kamara.



http://londonfootballnews.co.uk/arsenal/arsenal-v-fulham-ozil-could-return-along-with-gunners-defenders-injury-blow-for-whites/