Thursday Fulham Stuff (03/01/19)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Arsenal 4 Fulham 1- Player Ratings – Convincing or Flattering?

After that disgrace at Anfield against the country's best team, a decent result was essential heading into a New Year against a Fulham side also struggling for confidence.

First Half

Both sides showed some nerves early on and it was a bit scrappy. Thankfully Sessegnon left his shooting boots at home. Suddenly Granit decided to risk a nosebleed by moving into the rarefied heights of the penalty area. Wobbly's pass was cleverly left by Laca and the big Swiss had a fairly simple toe poke finish.

Arsenal's play picked up from there and we should have added to the lead before half time.

Second Half

The second goal was a thing of beauty with incisive work filleting Fulham's left flank. Auba's clever pass to the Wardrobe put him in the ideal position to lay one on a plate for Laca.

After a couple of chances to extend our lead the Tinkerman brought on two forwards with a gambler's throw of the dice. A sloppy pass out to the Terrier and a barge in the back won Fulham the ball and the inevitable, 'brown trousers watching The Arsenal' period of the game came as the lead was halved by a sub. Fulham scented a wounded animal, so the next goal would be crucial.

Thankfully Rambo came on as sub and almost immediately followed up an Auba pinger against the post and we could breathe easy once again. Auba then missed a little dink finish over the keeper before finally getting his goal via a deflection and a Papa assist.

4-1 and game over for a Fulham team which probably expected no less.

Conclusion

A fine result considering the less than perfect performance, though why we can't see out winning positions without giving everyone kittens will, seemingly, forever be a weakness.

Ratings

Leno – competent, making crucial stops when the game threatened to slip away from us ... 7

Maitland-N – right wing back or right back, equally adept – starting to get some confidence back ... 7

Papa – far happier playing lesser strikers and his first assist for twenty years ... 6

Kos – our captain is slowly beginning to find his feet again ... 7

Shkod – Injured or another half-time tactical admission that we got things wrong in the first half? ... 6

Wardrobe – majestic at wing back – like a runaway train on the burst, setting up chances with its front wheels ... 8

Guendouzi – heart of a lion – more to come from the young man ... 7

Xhaka – his goal should have been the cue for a landslide – he himself could have had another – excellent through ball in the second half to set Laca free ... 7

Wobbly – big chances galore came from his feet in the first half – much improved ... 8

Laca – Fine goal and perhaps didn't moan quite as much when he was subbed .... 7

Auba – a goal machine – he's going to run away with the golden boot if he can sharpen his finishing even further ... 7

Subs

Terrier – clearly he needs a rest as he's been carrying some of the team on his tiny shoulders earlier in the season ... 6

Rambo – instant impact at exactly the right moment – thanks for all the goals Aaron ... 7

Saka – debut boy got a brief taste of the high life ... 6



https://arsenalarsenal.net/2019/01/02/arsenal-4-fulham-1-player-ratings-convincing-or-flattering/

[WhiteJC]

 
Games for the FA Cup 3rd round
No Premier League games this weekend, its time for the FA Cup 3rd round where we welcome Oldham Athletic to the Cottage

I still think that the FA Cup is the best knock-out competition there is, a competition that brings teams together from different leagues and where major upsets happen, remember Sutton Utd, Hereford, Shrewsbury or Wrexham?

I'm hoping that this games isn't a major upset, but you never know...

Remember that our game is at 14:00 on Sunday

Games of Interest
Friday 4th
Tranmere Rovers v Spurs

Saturday 5th
Burnley v Barnsley
Shrewsbury Town v Stoke
Blackpool v Arsenal
Palace v Grimsby

Sunday 6th
Fulham v Oldham
Man City v Rotherham
Woking v Watford
Newport County v Leicester



http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=566

[WhiteJC]

 
Aston Villa should go for Aboubakar Kamara on loan

According to The Times, Fulham may opt to sell Aboubakar Kamara following his actions regarding a penalty in the Cottagers' most recent Premier League fixture.

When Fulham were awarded a spot kick against Huddersfield last time out, Kamara argued with the club's regular penalty taker, Aleksandar Mitrovic, demanding to be able to take the penalty himself. Kamara won the argument, but then proceeded to miss from the spot.

After the match, Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri pulled no punches in expressing his thoughts on Kamara's actions. Ranieri said that the 23-year-old "did not respect me, the club, team-mates and crowd. I spoke with him, it is not right."

It now seems that Ranieri may have lost patience with the powerful Frenchman, and is considering allowing him to leave the club in the upcoming January transfer window.

This state of affairs ought to have alerted other clubs to Kamara's potential availability. Should Fulham really be open to offers, then Aston Villa would be wise to ensure that they win the race to the forward's signature.

Competition, depth and quality

The Villans have been revitalised somewhat since the appointment of Dean Smith as manager. However, if the club are to kick on from here and realise their ambitions then they must add additional depth and quality to their squad.

Kamara would bring Premier League experience to Villa Park, and would also provide competition for places to the likes of Yannick Bolasie, Anwar El Ghazi, Albert Adomah, Scott Hogan and Jonathan Kodjia.

If Fulham are willing to let the attacker go, then the door is open for Villa to land a top January signing.



https://www.footballfancast.com/championship/aston-villa/aston-villa-should-go-for-aboubakar-kamara-on-loan

[WhiteJC]

 
Score line flatters against Fulham, but job ultimately done

Morning all and welcome to 2019. As always the start of the new year brings with it hope and promise for a special year ahead and as Arsenal fans we'd probably look at 2018 as one we'd like to put behind us too.

Let's be honest, 2018 wasn't an amazing one for us. We saw the decline of a once great manager result in a an exit, we finished way off the pace in the league and even towards the end of the year we saw some slightly concerning results like the 5-1 drubbing at Anfield last week.

But now we look at to 2019 and already it has at least started with a positive result in the shape of a 4-1 victory over Fulham at the Emirates yesterday.

It was a strange game actually because like the game at Craven Cottage we racked up plenty of goals, conceded a silly one that made us worry for a bit, but ultimately went on to win the game which looked comfortable.

Except it wasn't really that comfortable at all. In fact it really was quite a bit of a slog at times. The first half was particularly poor and akin to much of what we've seen in first halves all season. Unai had a bit of shuffling from the Liverpool hammering and started with three recognised centre halves in the first time since god knows when, whilst Ainsley Maitland-Niles let his place at left wing back. Torreira was dropped for Guendouzi and Laca returned to the starting line up and in that first half it all felt a little disjointed. We controlled the first 15 minutes or so with possession and Aubameyang could have even put us up in the first couple of minutes, but his skied effort didn't hit the target and after about 15 minutes I thought Fulham grew in to the game, probably should have even been ahead when Sessegnon raced through. But as has been the case for teams lower down the table this season, he couldn't capitalise and we got away with it.

We got away with that whole half I thought, actually, because we even scored against the run of play as nobody picked up Xhaka sauntering in to the box to hammer home inside six yards and going in to the halftime beverages it was nice to know that feeing of being ahead at halftime. Take that "if the league was based on the first 45 minutes" brigade.

The second half inevitably saw a better Arsenal performance but more than anything it saw more goals and some smart team goals too. Kolasinac was brilliant going forward again and when he squared it to Lacazette inside the box the Frenchman was never going to miss from about eight yards out. There's plenty made of his substitutions and whilst Unai was reminded of the jeers that ripples around some sections of the crowd yesterday, I think it's worth reminding us all of what a till this time of the season takes and with that in mind, we need to be mindful that we only have two first team out-and-out centre forwards. So I don't have too much of a problem with him doing that.

And ultimately Lacazette was replaced by a guy who also scored in Aaron Ramsey and so you can't really have too many complaints when that happens. Ramsey's role may have been limited this season when it became clear the club had removed the deal that was on the table, but it's hard not to see that when he does play he makes an impact, so I'm just pleased that we're getting a bit of end product from him despite the fact his contract is running down. At a time in which we seem to be heavily reliant on goals from Lacazette and Aubameyang it is important to note that Rambo is still chipping in.

And so is Auba who once again kept his good form up with that slightly fortuitous deflected finish to add a little gloss to the overall performance. He was much better yesterday in his all round play I thought and it felt like he was more involved too.

So we move on. We haven't really gained much ground and there's no way Chelski don't beat Southampton tonight, but at least we've managed to get a little bit of that bitter taste of the Anfield defeat washed away with a win on home soil.

Catch you all tomorrow.



http://www.suburbangooners.com/2019/01/02/score-line-flatters-against-fulham-but-job-ultimately-done/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham are the latest club to be linked with Aston Villa target

Aston Villa have stepped out of the race for the Premier League star

Former Aston Villa star Gary Cahill has said to have been attracting attention from a myriad of London clubs.

Arsenal are said to be among a host of clubs after him.

But now Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri has targeted Cahill to sort out his defence at Craven Cottage on a six-month loan, according to The Sun.

The Chelsea centre-back, who has been at the club for seven years in January, will be allowed to leave in the coming transfer window after falling down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.

Maurizio Sarri has used David Luiz, Cesar Azpilicueta and Antonio Rudiger in his back-line this term, and also has Andreas Christiansen at his disposal.

Cahill has been linked with a move to former club Aston Villa in the next month, though they're expected to look elsewhere.

Arsenal are also reportedly lining up an offer for Cahill, as they search for much needed top flight experience in their defence.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-latest-club-linked-aston-15618115

[WhiteJC]

 
Transfer gossip: Whites tipped to land Cahill

Fulham are close to clinching the signing of Gary Cahill, The Sun reports.

The Chelsea defender, whose contract is due to expire this summer, has been linked with several clubs, including Arsenal.

However, West London Sport revealed last month that Fulham are looking to take him to Craven Cottage.

And The Sun now declare that Whites boss Claudio Ranieri "is ahead of Arsenal" in a supposed race to snap up Cahill, who had been tipped to move to the Emirates Stadium.

Cahill will reportedly be granted a loan move for the rest of the season if a permanent deal is not agreed.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/chelsea/football-chelsea-fulham-cahill-arsenal-tammy-abraham-aston-villa-wolves-loan

[WhiteJC]

 
How Aboubakar Kamara went from zero to hero at Fulham in three days

On Saturday, Aboubakar Kamara wrangled a penalty from designated taker Aleksandar Mitrovic and missed it. Subject to boos from his own fans, apparently refusing to apologise, his own manager said he wanted to kill him.

Just three days later, the Fulham winger came off the bench at the Emirates, scored a crucial goal, and nearly dragged the Whites back to an unlikely draw on New Year's Day.

Even for the mercurial Frenchman, the past week has been a remarkable rollercoaster in which Kamara has truly gone from zero to hero at Craven Cottage.

After Kamara's ill-fated penalty fiasco, many doubted if he would ever play for Fulham again, with a report from the Times even claiming he was set to be sold in January. Yet on New Year's Eve, Claudio Ranieri publicly ended the feud, claiming the dispute was "finished" and indicating Kamara was ready for selection.

Although the Italian manager opted to start Andre Schurrle ahead of Kamara, the Frenchman retained his place on the bench and entered the fray in the 61st minute.

From the off, it was clear what Kamara brought to the Fulham team, bullying the Arsenal defenders with his dangerous runs, electrifying pace, and powerful dribbles.

Just eight minutes after coming on, Kamara ghosted unmarked into the penalty area and connected emphatically with a Ryan Sessegnon cross, halving the deficit and bringing Fulham back into the match.

With the score 2-1, Kamara was at the forefront of the Fulham fightback, and nearly set up Mitrovic for the tying goal — yet his cross lacked the necessary power and was cut out by Bernd Leno.

The Gunners would go on to score two late goals to make the final result a comfortable-looking 4-1, but in reality, the Whites unnerved Arsenal for large stretches of the match.

Aboubakar Kamara provided the unlikeliest of figures to spearhead the plucky Fulham fightback, scoring the Cottagers' solitary goal and delighting the away support.

From boos to hearing his name sung in joy, the French winger completed his rise from villain to saint, revealing his future very much lies in SW6.



https://tbrfootball.com/how-aboubakar-kamara-went-from-zero-to-hero-at-fulham-in-three-days/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham hit for four after failing to take their chances

Don't be too dismayed by the scoreline. This might have looked like another routine defeat at Arsenal for a team and a manager who have never won there, but there were a lot more signs of promise for a side still sitting nineteenth in the table. Fulham fashioned more chances in the opening 35 minutes than they have done on their last four or five visits to the Emirates – and, briefly after Aboubakar Kamara reduced the arrears to 2-1, threatened a comeback in the second half.

Ultimately, this was a lesson in ruthlessness in front of goal. Ryan Sessegnon will rue missing two glorious chances to give Fulham the lead, whereas Granit Xhaka needed no second invitation to put the Gunners in front after 25 minutes. A tired defence looked leggy in the second half and made a couple of elementary mistakes as Fulham pushed forward in search of an equaliser. 4-1 felt incredibly harsh, but the top flight can be a brutal competition at times as Fulham are finding out.

Claudio Ranieri's men were far more forward-thinking than anybody could have predicted and had a lot more joy in getting at an Arsenal defence that still looks shaky enough to undermine their Champions' League ambitions. Tom Cairney, restored to the playmaking role where he looks most effective, was excellent with the ball in the first half. He played a delightful ball sending Sessegnon clear but the teenager dragged his shot disappointingly wide of the far post. He missed his kick entirely at the far post as an Andre Schurrle cross flashed across the face of goal – and Fulham were immediately reminded of the magnitude of those two chances.

The home crowd were beginning to get restless, but they were relieved by an opening goal made by a combination of Arsenal's two best players, the energetic Sead Kolasinac and Alex Iwobi. Ranieri will have been perturbed by Cairney's failure to track Xhaka's run – the hulking midfielder burst into oceans of space that wasn't occupied by Tim Ream or Maxime Le Marchand either and had far too much time to bring the ball down and stroke a finish past the helpless Sergio Rico.

The goal sparked the Gunners into life. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had a couple of chances, one saved by Rico and one steered wide from a good position, whilst the lively Mattéo Guendouzi was also denied by Fulham's Spanish goalkeeper. Fulham still created openings of their own with Aleksandar Mitrovic, who got a fair bit of joy against Laurent Koscielny and Sokratis, failing to get a decisive connection on Joe Bryan's deep cross, but went in a goal down.

It got worse ten minutes after the break. Iwobi found more space down the left and a set of speedy passes between Aubameyang and Kolasinac opened Fulham up. The left wing-back burst between blue shirts and committed Rico before squaring the ball for Alexandre Lacazette, who hammered home the finish. At that point, you feared the floodgates might open but Ranieri introduced Kamara and Jean-Michael Seri and the visitors got a foothold in a game that had appeared beyond them.

One of Seri's first contributions was an excellent cross onto the head of Mitrovic, who probably should have done better than direct his effort straight at Bernd Leno. Fulham weren't perturbed. Seri added some bite to their midfield, stripping Lucas Torreira of the ball with a strong tackle that incensed the Arsenal players, and the Ivorian combined with Cairney to create the space for Sessegnon to surge down the left. His low cross cut out Leno and Kamara, the villain on Saturday, tapped home the simplest of finishes from close range.

Emery's decision to replace Lacazette with Aaron Ramsey was greeted with disdain by the home crowd, but it settled what had become a topsy-turvy game. The Welshman and Torreira took control of a more open contest and, as he did at Craven Cottage earlier in the season, Ramsey scored within minutes of coming on. This wasn't as glorious a goal – but his finish was unerring after Aubameyang had struck the base of the near post after another flowing passing move between Kolasinac and Guendouzi.

A fourth, which arrived seven minutes from the end, seemed harsh on Fulham and certainly on Rico, who had made a string of fine saves in the second half. The goalkeeper had little chance when Aubameyang's shot hit Ream and looped over him. Ranieri might not have been pleased with the way Arsenal were allowed to toy with the Fulham defence on the edge of the box, but his players had certainly given everything and, with a bit of luck, could have got a result had they taken those early chances.

ARSENAL (3-4-1-2): Leno; Mustafi (Torreira 45), Sokratis, Koscielny; Maitland-Niles Kolasinac, Xhaka, Guendouzi; Iwobi (Saka 83); Lacazette (Ramsey 75), Aubameyang. Subs (not used): Cech, Lichsteiner, Elneny, Nketiah.

GOALS: Xhaka (25), Lacazette (55), Ramsey (75), Aubameyang (83).

FULHAM (3-4-3): Rico; Odoi, Le Marchand, Ream; Christie (Fosu-Mensah 57), Bryan, Cisse (Seri 61), Cairney; R. Sessegnon, Schurrle (Kamara 61), Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Bettinelli, Johansen, Vietto, Ayite.

BOOKED: Fosu-Mensah.

GOAL: Kamara (69).

REFEREE: Graham Scott (Oxfordshire).

ATTENDANCE: 59,887.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/01/fulham-hit-for-four-after-failing-to-take-their-chances/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham target Gary Cahill would be a masterstroke addition

Fulham are reportedly close to securing a deal for Chelsea defender on loan for the rest of the season.

According to the Sun, the Whites could add the 33-year-old to the squad at Craven Cottage and pip Arsenal to his signature.

It is understood that manager Claudio Ranieri has targeted the serial winning centre-back to add experience to his side in their fight against relegation.

Fulham are inside the relegation zone as it stands and a point from safety, but would surely have a much better chance of avoiding the drop if they sign their January target.

Cahill remains Chelsea's captain for now and has won competitions such as the Champions League and Premier League in his career.

The 61-time capped England international is a real leader at the back and could help tighten up the Fulham backline.

Ranieri has started to help his defence improve since his appointment as manager and his title winning Leicester team were built on their success in defence.

Leicester captain Wes Morgan was the organiser and leader of the back four, which is definitely a role that Cahill could now fill for Fulham as the general on the pitch.

Cahill has reached elite levels during his illustrious career and would be the ideal addition for Ranieri in January.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-target-gary-cahill-would-be-a-masterstroke-addition/

[WhiteJC]

Arsenal 4, Fulham 1
Welp. They Gave It A Go

Well it wasn't for a lack of trying. But for the Claudio Ranieri era, Fulham looked intimidated in defense and looked like they wanted to be pushed around. Now that's not denying that Arsenal are a very talented side when things click for them. It's just that Fulham are running out of time to stave off relegation and further excuses about such defeats like tonight to go along with it.

The first half was about as high octane as you could get as Arsenal started the game on the front foot from the word go. Saed Kolasinac might as well have been Roberto Carlos from his wing back position and Granit Xhaka was everywhere from midfield. And even if Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette did not score in the opening minutes, they were everywhere in the penalty area ready to strike with speed.

That being said, it is not like Fulham didn't come to play either. Ryan Sessegnon was brilliant and bluntly should have scored at lease once. The first chance came from a counter-attack where he couldn't find the netting when it was just between him and Bernt Leno towards goal. The next came from an uncharacteristically accurate cross by André Schürrle that just couldn't get connected from point-blank range. But that's what you get from a teenager whose 10.5% goal conversion rate this season is more than half of his previous scoring rate. Even so, Fulham's endeavor were enough to anger the crowd at the Emirates Stadium who demand a much better Arsenal team after being embarrassed so much by Liverpool last time.

They fortunately got their reward off of a Tom Cairney turnover. From there Alex Iwobi put a cross to a cutting Xhaka who converted it easily past Sergio Rico to make it 1-0. It may not have been the death blow just yet, but it was enough to convince the crowd that Arsenal were switched on from here on out. But it was without Fulham creating more chances as Schürrle did off of a trademark volley and Aleksander Mitrovic almost scoring off of a header thanks to a great Joe Bryan cross. Still, Arsenal were everywhere in attack themselves, and if it wasn't for a few fine saves from Rico, the margin of victory would have been much greater. In the end, Fulham could be proud of their efforts heading into the break, but with 2.48 expected goals in just seven shots, Arsenal new they had the bit between the teeth as well heading into the dressing rooms.

As both teams returned in the second half, one of them didn't look the same outfit as the teams that just left. This time, it was Arsenal that was making a halftime adjustment as Lucas Torreira came on for the supposedly injured Shkrodan Mustafi. What came of it was a Gunners XI that shifted from a 3-4-3 into a 4-4-2 formation in hopes for more cover for Fulham counter-attacks. For the most part it worked, as Alexandre Lacazette made it 2-1 off of some beautiful buildup play on the right hand side thanks to some slick passing by Iwobi again, along with Aubameyang and Kalasinac. Simply put, Cyrus Christie was turned into a ragdoll all night defensively and him being substituted by Timothy Fosu-Mensah did not make things much better.

But even so, Claudio Ranieri thought more was in store for this Fulham side and the substitutions of Aboubakar Kamara and Jean-Michael Seri livened things up on the other end of the pitch. Surely enough, it was Seri's workrate that caused a turnover in the attacking half and it led to Sessegnon making a slick pass to Kamara to make it 2-1. It was as if the traveling support completely forgot what the goal scorer did previously against Huddersfield when they celebrated cutting the lead in half!

However, Arsenal had one last trick up their sleeve that sealed the game. In a strange way, replacing a striker for a midfielder would mostly be a bad idea. But the Gunners were rocking defensively and they needed extra solidity to secure their three points. In stepped Aaron Ramsey, who might as well be the stuff of Fulham nightmares this season as he was able to retrieve a Aubameyang shot that rang the post so that he can slot it in the top right corner past Rico to make it 3-1. Surely enough a failed clearing attempt by Seri and Denis Odoi resulted in one last kill shot by Aubemeyang, who was able to have his deflected shot by Tim Ream go over Rico and put the cherry on top of a much closer contest.

Sadly, the numbers may tell otherwise as Fulham also lost the overall expected goal battle 4.43-1.71. But Ranieri's team can find some respite and realise that they can attack teams while having a defensive posture. They're just going to have to do it much more often as wins will be few and far between as the season draws closer to the end. For now, an FA Cup fixture is next and there will be more tinkering from The Tinkerman to do.



https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2019/1/2/18164076/arsenal-4-fulham-1

[WhiteJC]

 
A win-win situation for all parties? This out-of-favour Fulham ace might just be what Newcastle United need to boost their attacking prowess

Newcastle would do well by swapping Jonjo Shelvey for Tom Cairney

A report by The Sun has indicated that Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri wants to swap captain Tom Cairney for Newcastle United star Jonjo Shelvey. The former Swansea City man has fallen out with manager Rafael Benitez at St. James' Park, but the question for the former Liverpool to answer is will Cairney make a difference?

The Fulham captain has fallen out favour with Ranieri in recent weeks and the former Leicester City manager wants a deep-lying playmaker. His targets are Shelvey and Pedro Obiang from West Ham (h/t The Sun), with Ranieri opting to swap the 28-year-old Cairney with either Premier League side.

Cairney has struggled to make an impact this season for the Cottagers, making 14 appearances and producing just one assist in that time. This does seem rather feeble compared to his stats last season where the 28-year-old was a crucial cog in helping Fulham reach the Premier League.

But with the arrivals of Jean Michel Seri and Frank-Andre Zambo Anguissa, things have changed for the Nottingham man and maybe a move would do both parties well.

Newcastle need creative players and there are few players available that can suit their budget. And Cairney fits the profile. But given his struggles in the more physical and faster Premier League, maybe Benitez could go for someone else to survive in the English top tier.

However, there could be another issue at play. With Cairney struggling under Ranieri, he could turn into a better player under Rafael Benitez. The Magpies do have Ayoze Perez and even Christian Atsu, both of whom have played as a No. 10, but neither has succeeded. As a result, Newcastle find themselves in a precarious position this January.

The Magpies need a prolific goalscorer as well and swapping Jonjo Shelvey, a player clearly not in Benitez's plans at the moment, for a creative midfielder in his prime makes absolute sense. Not only that, it saves money for any future projects or players that the club want to invest in.

Only time will tell if Tom Cairney has problems with the manager or the league itself, but hopefully, it's the former and not the latter.



https://www.mediareferee.com/2019/01/02/a-win-win-situation-for-all-parties-this-out-of-favour-fulham-ace-might-just-be-what-newcastle-united-need-to-boost-their-attacking-prowess/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 'leading Arsenal in race to sign Gary Cahill on loan' as Claudio Ranieri looks to fix leaky defence in January

    The Cottagers have conceded 47 goals in the Premier League this season
    The Chelsea captain has only made one appearance in the league this campaign
    Arsenal are also interested in the centre-back but Fulham are leading the race

Fulham lead the race for Chelsea outcast Gary Cahill as Claudio Ranieri has identified the 33-year-old as the man to fix his leaky defence.   

The Cottagers have conceded 47 goals in the Premier League this season - more than any other team.

The Chelsea captain has only made one appearance in the league this campaign after falling out of favour under Maurizio Sarri.


Gary Cahill has only made one appearance in the league this season after falling out of favour


The Cottagers have conceded 47 goals in the Premier League - more than anyone else

Arsenal are also interested in the centre-back but Fulham are believed to be ahead in the race for his signature according to The Sun. 

Ranieri's side were thrashed 4-1 by the Gunners on Tuesday and sit 19th - one point off Southampton in safety who have a game in hand.

Fulham splashed £100million in the summer on transfers which included six defensive acquisitions. 

Unai Emery's interest comes from the fact that the north London club are struggling with defensive injuries.

Shkodran Mustafi, Hector Bellerin, Nacho Monreal, Rob Holding and Konstantinos Mavropanos are all currently on the sidelines.


Unai Emery's interest comes from the fact that Arsenal are struggling with defensive injuries



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6547151/Fulham-leading-Arsenal-race-sign-Gary-Cahill-loan.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Tim Ream urges everyone at Fulham to unite behind Aboubakar Kamara following racist abuse


Kamara was racially abused on social media following his penalty miss against Huddersfield. ( Getty Images )

Tim Ream has urged everyone at Fulham to pull together behind Aboubakar Kamara after he was racially abused on social media following his penalty miss against Huddersfield.

Kamara was abused online after he defied team orders by wrestling the ball from designated taker Aleksandar Mitrovic in the 1-0 win over Huddersfield last week.

Claudio Ranieri dropped Kamara for Tuesday's 4-1 defeat at Arsenal after his miss but the 23-year-old came off the bench to score in the second half.

Kamara has apologised to Ranieri and his Fulham team-mates, and Ranieri has said he holds "no grudge" against the forward.

Ream has said everyone at the club must now stick behind Kamara. "That is huge," he said. "We are all trying to pull in the same direction.

"It is important the fans, the club, the players, the staff support him and support each other. We have to do the right things by each other and pull in the same direction.

"He apologised. The next day we put it all behind us and that was it. We have drawn a line under it and moved on. He has been the same old Abou. He has not let things faze him. He has not acted any differently."

Fulham have said they will take the "strongest possible action" against anyone identified and responsible for the racist abuse aimed at Kamara.

Ranieri said after the Huddersfield match that he wanted to "kill" Kamara but he said yesterday: "It is finished. I have no grudge. He apologised immediately to me, his team-mates, the club and it is finished there."

Fulham's defeat against Arsenal means they remain in the relegation zone and Ranieri has admitted they will need to strengthen in the January transfer window.

He said: "I think it is something we have to do. We have to improve. If we have the chance to buy some good players, [they would be] welcome."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/tim-ream-urges-everyone-at-fulham-to-unite-behind-aboubakar-kamara-following-racist-abuse-a4028426.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Report: Jaguars' Tony Khan Named President of Cody Rhodes' All Elite Wrestling

Jacksonville Jaguars executive Tony Khan is reportedly president of the All Elite Wrestling promotion that was officially announced Tuesday.

According to Ryan Satin of Pro Wrestling Sheet, Khan will oversee the company, and Cody Rhodes, Nick Jackson and Matt Jackson will serve as executive vice presidents.

Khan is the son of Jacksonville Jaguars and Fulham owner Shahid Khan, and he has a significant role within both organizations.

He is the Jags' senior vice president of football administration and technology, and he is the vice chairman and director of football operations at the English Premier League club.

On Tuesday, Rhodes released the following statement regarding All Elite Wrestling, though he didn't mention Khan:

Per PWInsider (h/t Satin), Khan is in talks with multiple networks about a possible television deal for 2019, and the ownership group is in conversations with talent about signing multiyear contracts with the company.

The official Twitter account for the All In pay-per-view tweeted Tuesday that the Double or Nothing Rally will be held Jan. 8 at the Jaguars' TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida:

Double or Nothing is expected to be the name of the next big event put on by Rhodes and The Young Bucks following the success of All In.

It could, perhaps, be the name of the first pay-per-view under the AEW banner.

While it isn't yet clear who will be involved with All Elite Wrestling beyond Khan, Rhodes and the Jacksons, Chris Jericho drummed up speculation Monday.

On Instagram, Jericho thanked the Minnesota Vikings and Khan for getting him and his wife field access for Sunday's game between the Vikings and Chicago Bears.

Having Khan on board is huge for All Elite Wrestling from a financial perspective, and bringing in Jericho would give the company the type of major name it needs to hit the ground running as well.



https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2813522-report-jaguars-tony-khan-named-president-of-cody-rhodes-all-elite-wrestling

[WhiteJC]

Cahill set to end Chelsea career with Fulham loan move — report
Beginning of the end

According to the Evening Standard, Chelsea veteran defender Gary Cahill is nearing a loan move to local rivals Fulham lasting until the end of the season.

The move would also have him seeing out the last six months of his Chelsea contract, and thus put an end to a career filled with trophies during his tenure at Stamford Bridge.

Cahill had been linked to Premier League and Championship clubs, such as Arsenal and Aston Villa. It seems that Fulham have won the race, in their bid to bolster defensive options for former Chelsea coach Claudio Ranieri.

This season did not go well for Cahill, as the 33-year-old only made 7 appearances for the club halfway through the term. It is Cahill's lowest ever tally as a Chelsea player, 12 games far from the 19 matches he played in 2011-12 as a then 26-year-old arriving from Bolton during the winter transfer window.

The end of Cahill's tenure approaches. And he will leave us as one of the most decorated players ever, with two Premier League titles, and one trophy from the League Cup, FA Cup, Europa League and, most importantly, the Champions League.



https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours-news/2019/1/2/18164954/cahill-set-to-end-chelsea-career-with-fulham-loan-move-report

[WhiteJC]

 
TICKET REMINDER: Help To Take Over 4000 To Craven Cottage

Tickets for the Emirates FA Cup Third Round tie away at Fulham are still on general sale for supporters.

Latics travel to Craven Cottage on Sunday, January 6, 2019 (2pm kick off).

So far over 3,800 tickets have been sold, help us make it over 4000 by getting your tickets now!

They are available in person at the Boundary Park ticket office, over the phone or online here.

Ticket prices are:

Adults: £10
Over 65's: £5
18-21 years: £5
17 & Under: £1

Disabled Price
Adults: £5
Over 65's: £2.50
18-21 years: £2.50
17 & Under: £1

Disabled supporters in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (higher or middle rate) or PIP payments are entitled to a complimentary carer ticket, if required.

Supporters will be able to purchase four tickets per person.

Tickets will go off sale on Friday, January 4 at 3pm.

Official Supporters Coach

We have sold out on the Official Supporters Coaches.

For more information, please call 0161 785 5150 or email supporter.services@oldhamathletic.co.uk.



https://www.oldhamathletic.co.uk/news/2019/january/02012019-fulham-tickets/

[WhiteJC]

 
Wild To Remain As Caretaker For Fulham Match

Oldham Athletic Caretaker Manager Pete Wild will be on the touchline for this weekend's Emirates FA Cup Third Round tie at Craven Cottage.

Wild, who has been at the club for over a decade, has so far overseen wins against Port Vale and Notts County.

Latics travel to Craven Cottage on Sunday, January 6, 2019 (2pm kick off).

The search continues for a new permanent manager and the club hope to make the right appointment as soon as possible.

Make sure you are there along with 3,800 other Latics supporters backing Wild and the team, tickets for the trip to the capital are still onside.



https://www.oldhamathletic.co.uk/news/2019/january/02012019-wild-to-remain-as-caretaker-for-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham in January transfer window: The likely signings and exits


Cahill targeted by the Cottagers. ( AFP/Getty Images )

With the January transfer window now officially open, clubs across the capital are looking to strengthen their respective squads for the second-half of the season.

Fulham brought in 12 players during the summer transfer window but now find themselves in a serious relegation scrap.

Claudio Ranieri hopes to bolster his squad this month, hinting this week he needs faster options in defence.

A centre-back and a striker are the priority.

Ranieri could move for Chelsea defender Gary Cahill and Leicester forward Islam Slimani, who he signed for £29m in 2016 and is on loan at Fenerbahce.

Ranieri is also keen on a right-back, with Liverpool's Nathaniel Clyne an option, while he has been linked with a reunion with Blues midfielder Danny Drinkwater.

Timothy Fosu-Mensah's loan deal could be cut short to allow another top-flight loan signing.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham/fulham-in-january-transfer-window-the-likely-signings-and-exits-a4028956.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Cahill may be Fulham's best shot at survival this season

According to The Sun, Fulham are interested in signing out of favour Chelsea defender Gary Cahill on loan until the end of the season.

The Cottagers currently sit in 19th place in the Premier League, and have conceded the most goals in the league this season by a considerable distance. The likes of Denis Odoi and Tim Ream have struggled to impress so far this season, and manager Claudio Ranieri will be desperate to inject some solidity into his club's defence.

The Italian has historically been able to get the best out of fairly limited defences, and must do so at Craven Cottage. In his infamous title winning season with Leicester, he transformed Robert Huth and Wes Morgan into the strongest and most feared centre-back partnership in the league. With the likes of skilled operators such as Alfie Mawson already at the club, the manager will hope that Cahill will help shore up the defence.

With new manager Maurizio Sarri at Stamford Bridge, Cahill's appearances for Chelsea have been few and far between, as he is clearly not a favourite of the Italian's. However, at the age of 33, he will still feel that he has a lot to give to whomever he plays for. Fulham will not be looking for longterm investments this January, they will be looking to quick fixes to avoid relegation. A two time Premier League winner and a member of Chelsea's victorious Champions League team, Cahill will provide Fulham with an immeasurable wealth of experience, which is just what Ranieri needs in his unsure defence.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/cahill-may-be-fulhams-best-shot-at-survival-this-season/

[WhiteJC]

 
This 27-year-old late bloomer could be the man to save Fulham from relegation and Ranieri must get him

Why Rodrigo Moreno could be the man to save Fulham from relegation

Rodrigo Moreno has long been deemed as one of the most promising players that Spain has produced in recent times but the attacker, now 27, has not really matured into a superstar.

A product of Real Madrid's youth system, Rodrigo field to make it to the first-team and his involvement was limited to the reserve teams. The 27-year-old joined Benfica in 2010 but was loaned out to Premier League club Bolton Wanderers for the 2010-11 season where he failed to make much of an impact.

He found himself in and out of the team and ended his career in the Portuguese top-flight with 27 goals from 68 games, returns which are decent considering the fact that he spent time on loan at Valencia in the 2014-15 season.

The Spaniard signed permanently for Valencia in 2015 and after three seasons of moderate returns at the Mestalla, Rodrigo racked up a career-best tally of 16 goals and 4 assists in the 2017-18 season. His heroics not only earned him a place in Spain's 2018 World Cup squad but also propelled Valencia to the group stages of the UEFA Champions League.



As an evidence of the fact that his last season's stellar performances were not merely a flash in the pan, the 27-year-old has already accumulated 2 goals and 3 assists in the La Liga this term.

Standing at 6ft. with a lanky frame, Rodrigo is not capable of stamping his authority with his physicality but he makes up for it with his technical abilities and eye for goal. Known as a playmaking forward, Rodrigo is a tactically versatile attacker who can play as a centre-forward and also as a right-winger.

Although he is not lightning quick, Rodrigo is quite sharp, agile and has earned praises for his direct style of football. He has the ability to outsmart the defenders with his good turn of pace and clever changes of direction, cutting inside from the right on to his preferred left foot to have a crack on goal.

The Spaniard is not only a good crosser from the wide areas but he is a player blessed with good vision and can set up his teammates with inch-perfect through balls. Furthermore, he has very good awareness as a centre-forward and is known for his clinical nature in front of the goal.

To put things into perspective, Fulham should make a move for Valencia's late-blooming star in January to help them in their bid to battle relegation.

The Cottagers are currently 19th in the standings and have the poorest defensive record in the division. While much of their woes have been down to their leaky backline, the attackers haven't had much joy either.

Aleksandar Mitrovic has been one of the brightest sparks in Fulham's otherwise lacklustre campaign so far. However, they have lacked an effective plan 'B' whenever the Serb has been overpowered by the defenders. Andre Schurrle and Jean Michael Seri haven't had the desired impact, which in turn has hampered the cohesion in the midfield and final third.

Rodrigo Moreno can bring that cutting-edge to Fulham's attack and help the team create more chances in the final third with his crossing and link-up play. Fulham will definitely be a much more formidable attacking unit with Mitrovic and Rodrigo up front.

The Spaniard is a big star at Valencia and he won't come cheap. But Fulham should not hesitate to break the bank to boost their chances of avoiding the drop.



https://soccersouls.com/2019/01/03/this-27-year-old-late-bloomer-could-be-the-man-to-save-fulham-from-relegation-and-ranieri-must-get-him/