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Tuesday Fulham Stuff (08/01/19)...

Started by WhiteJC, January 08, 2019, 07:52:19 AM

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WhiteJC

 
Report: Wolves and Fulham eyeing January swoop for Juventus ace Marko Pjaca

Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham are reportedly keen on signing the Croatian.

According to a report from Italian media outlet Tuttosport, Premier League duo Wolves and Fulham are keen to sign Juventus winger Marko Pjaca this month.

The 23-year-old is currently on loan with Fiorentina, but he has hardly set the world alight, chalking up just one goal and an assist in 16 Serie A appearances thus far.

Pjaca does have plenty of potential, however, and he possesses all of the ingredients needed to be a success at the very highest level.

Italian publication Tuttosport claims that Fiorentina are undecided about signing the Croatian permanently, leaving the door open to Wolves a Fulham, with both Premier League clubs thought to be interested in bringing the exciting winger to England.

According to another Italian media outlet Calcio Mercato, Juventus are willing to let Pjaca leave initially on loan, with an option to buy for just €20 million (£17.9 million).

The Croatian star is a wonderfully exciting talent, and should either Wolves or Fulham manage to sign him for the fee mentioned above, it would surely have to be considered as great business for them.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2019/01/07/report-wolves-and-fulham-eyeing-january-swoop-for-juventus-ace-m/

WhiteJC

 
Given Solanke's £19 million, Liverpool must demand more for Origi from Fulham

Photo: Getty Images.

Liverpool may already have pulled off one of the best deals of the season in managing to sell Dominic Solanke to Bournemouth for £19 million this transfer window, but now it could happen all over again with Divock Origi.

The Belgian forward has made just three first team appearances this season, and The Sun on Sunday believe that Fulham could come calling for the striker and are prepared to spend up to £15 million to get him.

However, given the fee that Liverpool got for a far less experienced, less proven and less prolific talent, the Reds would be foolish to accept such a low price tag.

Origi's Anfield career was given a lifeline with his Merseyside derby winner in early December but doubts remain and he has failed to nail down a regular spot under Jurgen Klopp, falling behind Daniel Sturridge in the pecking order.

That said, he was always ahead of Solanke and it was clear that those at the club rated him more highly, suggesting that they too would be reluctant to allow him to leave for anything less than a substantial fee.

However, with only 18 months left on his existing contract, Liverpool may take advantage to cash in, a benefit that they did not have with Solanke who was on a longer deal.



https://tbrfootball.com/given-solankes-19-million-liverpool-must-demand-more-for-origi-from-fulham/

WhiteJC

 
"Zero effort" – Fulham stalwart criticised after embarrassing cup loss

Premier League side Fulham were put out of the FA Cup by League Two side Oldham Athletic at Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon, and on a poor day for their side, their fans pointed the finger at their captain when reacting to the game on social media.

Claudio Ranieri resisted the temptation to play his strongest side in the search for a confidence boosting victory, and although he made a number of changes to the Cottagers XI, he would still have expected his team to win the match.

It actually looked like Fulham would cruise through when Dennis Odoi put them ahead in the second half, and even though they didn't finish off the team three divisions below them in the English set up, they still appeared the most likely winners.

Oldham turned things on its head in the last 15 minutes though, and the Cottagers were made to rue a penalty miss by Aleksandar Mitrovic after Tom Cairney was adjudged to have been fouled, with pictures suggesting he went over very easily.

That was at 1-1 and had the Serbian scored with his first touch, Fulham would surely have progressed, but his spot kick was saved and then the Latics went up the other end and secured a famous win.

Cairney did not enamour himself to the visiting fans for his part in the penalty, and he didn't get much more support from Cottagers followers after the match either.

Fulham needed someone to take the contest by the scruff of the neck and to lead them into the fourth round, but the Scotland international struggled throughout, and had a dismal effect on the encounter.

His form has been pretty poor this term, and it appears that Cottagers fans have run out of patience for the man whose goal at Wembley in May got them promoted to the Premier League, with plenty condemning his display on social media.



https://ninetyminutesonline.com/zero-effort-fulham-stalwart-criticised-after-embarrassing-cup-loss/


WhiteJC

 
Rethinking potential exits, team selection & Vietto's display - Fulham vs Oldham talking points

Here are some of the main talking points from Fulham's 2-1 FA Cup defeat against Oldham

Why the cup defeat could help Fulham

Fulham's participation in the 2018/19 FA Cup is over after only one game following an abysmal performance at Craven Cottage.

Tipped to seal their place in the fourth round by breezing past League Two opponents Oldham, the Cottagers became the Latics' latest victim in the famous competition.

Famously denied a place in the 1994 FA Cup final by a Mark Hughes goal in the final minute of extra time, the Lancashire side have knocked out both Everton and Liverpool over the past 11 years.

They can now add Fulham to their list and they most certainly deserved the win in west London.

As bad as the Cottagers had been in the first half after failing to hit the target, it appeared that they would be going through once Denis Odoi had opened the scoring just after the break.

However, the Latics showed passion and desire in abundance and eventually sealed their place in the next round following late goals from Sam Surridge and Callum Lang.

Claiming that he wanted his side to go well in the competition despite focusing on Premier League survival, Claudio Ranieri was not impressed at all by his team's performance.

Thankfully for Fulham it wasn't a league game as everyone would have them down as dead certs for a return to the Championship after one season.

As bad as it was for the Cottagers against Oldham, it could potentially turn out to be a positive for Fulham and maybe a turning point in the season.

he players now owe the manager and fans one hell of a performance and they need to do it next Saturday when they travel to Burnley.

Sean Dyche's team always show heart and desire and that's what Fulham need to do at Turf Moor if they are intent on keeping their place in the top flight.

Three points in Burnley next weekend would go a long way to making up for this debacle.

Team selection

Plenty of Fulham fans raised their eyebrows one hour before kick-off when the team news broke.

With plenty of sides making a number of changes after a busy festive period, Ranieri was expected to do likewise given his side were up against League Two opposition.

The Italian made six changes to his side but there was no place in the squad for either Stefan Johansen or Kevin McDonald.

Many expected a number of the club's youth players to be involved from the start or at least in the squad, yet there was only Steven Sessegnon on the bench.

Although it didn't come as a shock to see Mitrovic or Ryan Sessegnon left out, not many would have predicted that Jean Michael Seri and Tom Cairney would start.

While the team was certainly still good enough to progress through to the next round of the competition, plenty of the players on show didn't take their chance given to them by Ranieri.

McDonald isn't the most talented player in the world but he always shows heart and desire, something that the team lacked completely, while Ranieri had nothing to lose by playing Steven Sessegnon or other members of the club's academy.

In fact, they would have put up a better showing if they had been selected by the Italian.

Fulham do have a number of talented players at their disposal but now is the time to play the players who will graft for the team.

It's certainly worth remembering that hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.

It's going to be interesting to see how many players from the starting XI survive for next weekend's game at Burnley because it doesn't look like it will be many going on Sunday's showing.

Rethinking potential exits

The fact neither Johansen or McDonald were selected in Sunday's squad suggests that their futures lie elsewhere.

The former has been linked with a move to Italian giants AC Milan, while the latter could be about to return to Scotland to join Rangers.

Both played key roles in the team's promotion last May and many fans will no doubt claim that the club are making the wrong decision in potentially letting them go.

Seri looks a shadow of his former self and it's hard to believe he almost joined Barcelona in 2017, while Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa looks anything but a £30million signing.

January incomings could prove key as to what division the club are playing in next season, while outgoings are equally important.

Johansen and McDonald may not be as talented as the players they've been replaced by, yet they will work hard for the team and they understand what the club is all about.

Restoring them both to the team would also no doubt go down well with Tom Cairney following a disappointing season from the captain.

Fulham need some fight in the middle of the park at present and they may just want to think twice before letting the duo depart.

Vietto's struggles

Hailed for their business in the summer transfer market after bringing the likes of Seri and Alfie Mawson to west London, it looks like the club very much got it wrong ahead of the new season.

While Sergio Rico has done well and Mitrovic has scored some crucial goals, the vast majority of Fulham's transfers haven't work out.

The loan signing of Luciano Vietto from Atletico Madrid is a prime example.

The Argentine has so far struggled in the Premier League and it was more of the same against Oldham.

Handed a rare chance from the off to impress the manager ahead of next weekend's trip to Burnley, Vietto offered absolutely nothing in his time on the pitch and it appeared like he wasn't interested.

It was pretty obvious he didn't fancy it against the Latics' no-nonsense defenders and it must have been a dream to play against him.

Time and time again the player lost control of the ball, while less said about his second-half attempt the better.

Failing to make an impression during his time in the league, he well and truly blew his chance in the FA Cup defeat and it was actually a surprise he remained on the pitch for the full 90 minutes.

Perhaps this is why he's been sent away from Atleti on loan for the third time since his move to the Spanish capital in June 2015.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-latest-news-ranieri-vietto-15638499

WhiteJC

 
Fulham have 'sent a first offer', negotiations continue, want signing quickly

Just like in other recent transfer windows, Fulham are being credited with a lot of interest in Ligue 1 players.

Monday's edition of L'Equipe reports the latest player to be subject of a Fulham effort is Youssouf Sabaly.

The 25 year old is a right footed right back who can also play as a left back. For his club Bordeaux this season he's been used more on the left than right, showing a clear versatility for the fullback positions.

Sabaly has a contract with the French side until June 2021, so there's no pressure to sell him.

Claudio Ranieri is said to be targeting the player and Fulham have 'sent a first offer' according to the French newspaper. That offer arrived at the end of the week just gone, according to the claims.

There's no clarity on whether it's was knocked back or even what the amount Fulham have put forward is, but L'Equipe state 'negotiations continue'.

The Premier League club reportedly want the player quickly, so he can help with the battle against relegation.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-sent-first-offer-negotiations-continue-want-signing-quickly/

WhiteJC

 
Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic reacts to costing a punter a small fortune after Oldham

Fulham 1 – Oldham 2

One of the big shocks in the FA Cup third round was Oldham's 2-1 win at Fulham.

Oldham are 10th in League Two, and they are a club in crisis.

Indeed, Oldham were being managed at Craven Cottage by Pete Wild, who has only just be handed an interim role with the Addicks.

Pete Wild thought he'd watch the Fulham game in the stands before the club asked him to manage in the dugout.

Callum Lang was the Oldham hero with an 88th minute winner.

Denis Odoi fired Fulham into the lead before Sam Surridge levelled from the penalty spot.

Aleksandar Mitrovic's missed penalty vs Oldham

Fulham keep getting it wrong when it comes to taking penalties.

In the recent 1-0 win over Huddersfield in the Premier League, Aboubakar Kamara stole a spot-kick away from Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Kamara then proceeded to miss from the spot.

Against Oldham, Tom Cairney won the Cottagers a second half spot-kick.

Claudio Ranieri reacted by bringing Mitrovic off the bench to specifically take the penalty.

Mitrovic proceeded to miss.

Aleksandar Mitrovic cost a punter a small fortune

Had Mitrovic scored, Fulham would have gone 2-1 up and they'd probably have won the game.

But that didn't happen, which left one punter upset about missing out on over 800 pounds.

The punter revealed on social media that Fulham was his only wrong result in a accumulator on Sunday.

After tagging Mitrovic in his Instagram post, the Fulham striker reacted in the comments.

Rather than offering any kind words, Mitrovic showed he gave zero f**** about causing the punter to miss out on his possibly winnings.



https://www.101greatgoals.com/news/fulhams-aleksandar-mitrovic-reacts-to-costing-a-punter-a-small-fortune-after-oldham/


WhiteJC

 
Fulham supporters direct ire at Ranieri after embarrassing Oldham cup defeat

Fulham supporters are not impressed at all after their side threw away a 1-0 lead and missed a penalty before slipping to a 2-1 home defeat against managerless League Two side Oldham.

(John Patrick Fletcher/Action Plus via Getty Images)

Fulham's tumultuous season reached a new nadir in their FA Cup third round clash with Oldham Athletic yesterday as they slipped to a 2-1 home defeat against the managerless League Two outfit.

When Denis Odoi put a much-changed Cottagers side ahead, it looked as if Claudio Ranieri's side would book their place in the fourth round, despite an underwhelming, disjointed performance.

After substitute Sam Surridge put the visitors level with just under 15 minutes to go to send their supporters into bedlam, substitute Aleksandar Mitrovic had the opportunity to put Fulham back in front.

Captain Tom Cairney's mazy run ended with a dubious penalty decision after the most minimal of contact but the Serbian striker could not find the net with his spot-kick.

Callum Lang won the match for Oldham with two minutes remaining, which sent Fulham supporters into a tailspin on Twitter.

They have seen their side decimate their promotion-winning squad and sack the manager who took them up, for only a minimal level of improvement results-wise in the league and no guarantee of avoiding cup humiliation.

That has seen them turn their ire on Ranieri, a manager many appear to see as just passing through and we've put together a look at the best reaction...



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-supporters-direct-ire-at-ranieri-after-embarrassing-oldham-cup-defeat/

WhiteJC

 
Vietto throws his gloves down, VAR chants & those brilliant Oldham fans - Fulham moments missed

Did you spot these moments at Craven Cottage?

The Oldham fans

Oldham fans had every right to be in full voice as the full-time whistle blew at Craven Cottage.

Tipped to be on the end of a Fulham defeat ahead of kick-off, the League Two side fully deserved to leave west London with a 2-1 win following a fantastic performance.

As good as the Lancashire side were in SW6, Claudio Ranieri's Fulham side were abysmal.

In fact, at times it was hard to tell which side were battling for a play-off place in League Two and which side play in the Premier League.

Oldham fans were brilliant throughout the 90 minutes and their 4,000 travelling army witnessed the club produce yet another cup shock following their victories against Everton and Liverpool over the past 11 years.

They also did raise a laugh in the home end with their rendition of 'Fulham's a s******e, I want to go home!'

You certainly couldn't blame the home fans for wanting to go home after that performance!

VAR Chants

VAR was in place at Fulham with nine FA Cup third round ties selected to have video replays to assist the referees.

With six games benefiting from VAR on Saturday, only the Fulham and Man City matches on Sunday were selected.

Level at 1-1 following Sam Surridge's penalty, Oldham fans started chanting for VAR with Anthony Taylor pointing to the spot after Tom Cairney went down following minimal contract from Christopher Missile.

Clearly unhappy with the decision to award a penalty in the closing stages of the encounter, all 4,000 travelling fans started chanting for VAR.

They did get their wish but the spot kick was still given despite the video assistant referee taking a look at it.

However, it didn't matter with Daniel Iversen denying Aleksandar Mitrovic from the spot following his introduction in place of Cairney.

Referee shows off his skills

Taylor was also involved in the action in the first half at Craven Cottage after producing a fine bit of skill with Oldham in possession of the ball.

Mohammed Maouche had the ball in the middle of the park and hooked the ball over his head with Fulham players trying to win the ball off him.

Instead of the ball landing on the ground and the player moving away from danger, it actually landed on Taylor's back before finding its way to one of the Frenchman's teammates.

Thankfully it didn't set the hosts off on a counter attack or the referee would have received a few choice words from some Oldham players.

Vietto throws his gloves down

It wasn't Luciano Vietto's day at Craven Cottage.

Named in the starting XI and looking to make a big impression ahead of some crucial fixtures for the Cottagers, the summer arrival had a shocker.

Struggling in the Premier League following his loan move from Atletico Madrid, the Argentine was finding it rather difficult up against the League Two opposition.

Clearly frustrated after giving a foul away in the 19th minute, the 25-year-old threw his black gloves down to the ground.

Instead of throwing them out to touch, Vietto just left them in the middle of the park and resumed play before the referee picked them up a minute later.

Clearly suffering from the cold on a rather mild afternoon in west London, the player decided to return after the break with a new pair of gloves on.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-oldham-moments-missed-vietto-15638370

WhiteJC

 
Programme of the Season

The Club's publication has taken first place in the Programme of the Season Award issued by website Premier Progs.

Second place in the 2018/19 awards is taken by the programme issued by Arsenal, with third place going to Brighton & Hove Albion's issue.

Premier Progs website editor James Richards commented: "The Fulham programme is a superb issue, being awarded 19 points out of 20 for consistent excellence across the four areas of marking – Design, Original Content, Opposition Coverage, and Club Information.

"The team behind the Fulham issue are to be congratulated on the quality of their programme, with some excellent design work complementing a host of well-written features.

"For a club that is spending its first season back in the Premier League to produce such an outstanding issue speaks volumes for the efforts of all involved in the programme's production."

The full review reads as follows:

Fulham mark their return to the Premier League with a high-quality 100-page A5 programme. The Fulham issue was one of the well-regarded programmes in the Championship last season and this is another very impressive issue.

The programme benefits from a simple, clean layout and design that makes good use of the club's colours of white, black, and red, making the issue a pleasure to browse through. The strength of this design work complements the extensive content provided. There are more than 20 original features in the programme, making this issue one of the best reads in the Premier League.

Among the best features is 'From the Vaults', which looks at matchday programmes from previous fixtures against Arsenal [the programme in question], including cover reproductions and details from the various matches featured. 'This is the Cottage' sees club historian Alex White charting the history of the ground – a fascinating feature that in this issue examines the redevelopment of Craven Cottage in the early 20th century and the nearby development of Stamford Bridge, which Fulham were offered the chance to rent prior to the establishment of Chelsea FC.

'One Moment in Time' reproduces a photograph from a past meeting of Fulham and Arsenal, with a brief commentary, and two pages on the teams that day and what happened to them. 'Seasons in the Sun' is a series that profiles one of Fulham's 25 previous seasons in the top flight of English football – here looking at the 2001/02 campaign when, under manager Jean Tigana, the club reached the FA Cup semi-finals. 'The Ex Files' is a four-page features that carries an interview with one former Fulham player who has a link to the day's opponents.

'Back Pass' examines now defunct stadia, at which Fulham had played. In this issue, the stadium profiled is Arsenal's former home at Highbury. This is another quality feature, full of detail about the ground's history and Fulham's record there. 'Legendary Tales' profiles former Fulham player and coach Frank Penn, who served the club for 50 years. 'The Way I See It' features a photograph from the archives with the story behind it told by the subject, while 'Last Gasp Goals' looks at memorable late winning goals from Fulham's history.


The programme also includes extensive club coverage. There are two-page columns from the manager and captain and 'White Bites' – providing two pages of club news. Match reports are on two pages, with an image from the game making up most of the spread, alongside match details, line-ups, and an image of the programme cover from the fixture. Coverage of the club's youth teams include a two-page interview with one prospect and a page of match reports for each of the under-18s and under-23s. There are four pages of club stats, including results for the Academy teams and the double-page first team record.

Coverage of the visiting team is also well laid out, with strong use of the opposing club's colours. There are nine pages in all devoted to Arsenal, including a good introductory article and a fact-file of key stats. 'Classic Campaign' looks at a memorable season for the visitors, while 'Terrace Idol' features one legendary players from the opposition club's ranks. 'The Gaffer' is a profile of the club's manager, with similar profiles afforded to their captain and star man, as well as 'The Spine' of the team. Other members of the squad are afforded more basic pen-pics, alongside a profile of one 'hot prospect'. Finally, 'Press Box Analysis' is a column on the visitors penned by the Daily Mirror's Chief Football Writer, John Cross.

A first-class effort then from Fulham, packed with quality readable content. The sheer amount of reading provided is hugely impressive, with the quality of the features being of a very high standard. This is matched by the neat and tidy design work, which serves as an example of the benefits of keeping things simple. The Fulham programme is a real credit to the club.

Score 19/20 – the pick of this season's Premier League issues, the Fulham programme excels across the board.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/january/07/programme-of-the-season


WhiteJC

 
The key problems Fulham must solve during the January transfer window

The transfer window has been open a week and we've picked out the issues that Tony Khan will be looking to solve

The January transfer window has been open a week and Fulham are busy behind the scenes trying to bring in new recruits to aid their fight for Premier League survival.

After a £100million outlay in the summer the club find themselves 19th in the table and four points off safety having won just three games all season long, while the weekend saw them on the end of an FA Cup upset as League Two Oldham Athletic knocked them out at Craven Cottage.

It's a crucial period - Fulham need to strengthen to give themselves a chance of staying up.

Shahid Khan has told Claudio Ranieri that the funds are there for the club to strengthen with the recruitment department, led by Tony Khan, currently working on getting potential new recruits into the club.

Last season Khan Jnr got it spot on in the winter window, bringing in Aleksandar Mitrovic, Matt Targett and Cyrus Christie to aid the club in their charge for promotion and the pressure is on to replicate that success this time around.

As the window starts to step up a gear we've taken a look at the areas we think the club desperately need to strengthen this January.

The full back positions

This is a big area for improvement and was one that should've been solved in the summer.

With Ryan Fredericks leaving for West Ham and Targett returning to Southampton after his loan deal expired, getting new recruits at both right and left back was a high priority during the summer months.

Christie, signed in January, meant that there was an option on the right but Fulham were lacking at left back and that position wasn't solved until deadline day with Joe Bryan signing from Bristol City after a long pursuit of Targett ending in stalemate.

Timothy Fosu-Mensah also arrived on loan on the final day but neither signing has really made their mark on the side, with the Manchester United man looking likely to return back to Old Trafford.

For me these two areas are key for the side to strengthen in - there's just not enough depth or quality there at the moment and that has cost Fulham this season.

Right and left back was one of the team's biggest areas last season but this year it's been a real cause for concern, along with the rest of the defence.

Fulham definitely need another left back as they are desperately short there as it is and they need another right back with Fosu-Mensah just not impressing enough since joining.

Central defence

Again, another key problem area this season and one that needs addressing.

Defence was always going to be the area where most strengthening was needed during the summer and the club's recruitment department did try to rectify it by bringing in Alfie Mawson, Calum Chambers and Maxime Le Marchand to add to Tim Ream and Denis Odoi.

But it didn't work out - Chambers has moved into a defensive midfield role where he seems better suited in this team while Fulham have struggled to find a partner for Mawson before he got injured.

Gary Cahill from Chelsea has been linked to the club and he has a wealth of Premier League experience, but he doesn't fit in the club's U28 policy with the only two players signed that were over 30, Ragnar Sigurdsson and Fabri, proving to be huge flops.

There's no doubting that he would add something to the club if he was signed on loan, something I think might be the better option, but with Mawson's injury and no time frame on his return it would still leave Fulham with a predicament at the back.

With three positions at the back needing strengthening it leaves a lot of work to do for the recruitment team in what is a short period of time.

Another striker

Mitrovic was signed permanently in the summer and he's been a success at Fulham, scoring eight goals so far this season, but the club are short in this department too.

There's no depth in the striking department and the club needs another striker to take the load off Mitrovic.

Aboubakar Kamara has come into the side under Ranieri and scored goals, but he is extremely hot and cold and isn't going to be the man to provide goals to both support Mitrovic and keep the side up.

If Mitrovic was to get injured, Fulham don't really have anyone able to lead the line and that is a problem.

If the side don't score goals, they won't stay up and when Mitrovic isn't firing or isn't performing in a game for whatever reason, there's no one on the bench that can come on for him.

Shopping for a striker in January is tough business with this position normally coming at an increased premium, but it's a necessity for Fulham this month.

A wide player

This is a bit of a lower priority position but one that I think Fulham could do with bringing a player in for.

Luciano Vietto and Andre Schurrle were brought in on loan during the summer, adding to Floyd Ayite, Neeskens Kebano, Aboubakar Kamara and Ryan Sessegnon, but no one in that list, not even Sessegnon, have been a constant in the squad.

Vietto has struggled to make a mark massively while Schurrle hasn't shown the ability that got him a World Cup winners' medal with Germany in 2014.

For me, I think the side would benefit from another wide player that can add something going forward and defensively, providing balls for Mitrovic in the box and helping muck in with the defensive side of the game.

When Ranieri first came to the club he said he wanted to put more crosses into the box for Mitrovic to feed off - Sessegnon can provide that on the left but another player on the right able to do that would add a new dimension to the side for the second half of the season.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/key-problems-fulham-must-solve-15638914

WhiteJC

 
Fulham supporters picked out Odoi as one of few positives from shock Oldham loss

There was not much for Fulham fans to cheer as their side slipped to a 2-1 home defeat to Oldham, but goalscorer Denis Odoi was one.

(Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images)

When Denis Odoi put Fulham ahead seven minutes into the second half of their FA Cup third round tie against Oldham yesterday, he must have expected his side to go on and complete a routine win.

Their performance had been as disjointed as might be expected from a side low on confidence and lacking in fluidity due to rotation, but when the bigger side takes the lead in contests such as these, they do not generally surrender it.

But surrender it they did as a Sam Surridge penalty drew the managerless visitors level, before Aleksandar Mitrovic spurned a chance to put Fulham back ahead five minutes from time.

He was brought on for Tom Cairney directly between the captain winning it and it being taken, but failed to find the net with his first touch.

Callum Lang clinched a famous win for Oldham with two minutes remaining, plunging Fulham's season to new depths and eroding any signs of slow progress Claudio Ranieri has been able to generate since succeeding Slavisa Jokanvoic.

But goalscorer Odoi was seen by the Fulham supporters on Twitter as a rare – perhaps the only – positive from the embarrassing home defeat and we've put together some of the praise for the versatile defender...



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-supporters-picked-out-odoi-as-one-of-few-positives-from-shock-oldham-loss/

WhiteJC

 
Fulham slammed by pundits for viewing FA Cup as 'an inconvenience' after Oldham defeat

The Cottagers were knocked out by the League Two side and are struggling in the league

BBC pundits Charlie Adam and Matthew Etherington have delivered a withering assessment of Premier League strugglers Fulham, Huddersfield and Cardiff City following their FA Cup exits.

All three sides, who currently occupy three of the bottom four positions in the top flight, lost to lower league opposition with the pundits questioning why they viewed the cup as an 'inconvenience'.

Fulham were beaten at home by League Two Oldham, while Huddersfield and Cardiff lost at Bristol City and Gillingham respectively in third round banana skins.

And former West Ham and Tottenham winger Etherington criticised the approach of all three Premier League sides - who all made wholesale team changes - for the ties.

"You look at the results for Cardiff, Huddersfield and Fulham," he said.

"And is there a common theme and is it worth a discussion as to the mindset of these teams in lower reaches?

"The mindset of these clubs at the lower end of the table is that the FA Cup is an inconvenience. It's a real shame that's the case."

Adam honed in on Fulham, still struggling despite replacing former boss Slavisa Jokanovic with Claudio Ranieri in November.

The former Liverpool star said the Cottagers - and Huddersfield - lack desire in their defending.

"I am worried for Fulham because they just keep shipping so many goals," he said.

"Under Ranieri, it's the same mistakes, it's the same back four that are playing and they keep shipping goals, they're low on confidence.

"When you're at the bottom of the league, you've got to look at your defenders.

"I've played with people like Ryan (Shawcross), who throw their bodies on the line. I could see Ryan when we're 3-0 up and concede a goal fuming because we've lost a goal.

"You don't see proper old school defenders in these three teams: Cardiff, Huddersfield and Fulham.

"They don't throw their bodies on the line.

"Sol Bamba does for Cardiff, but Fulham and Huddersfield at the moment they don't seem to want it."

Adam agreed that neither Fulham or Huddersfield respected the cup competition and how it could benefit their league form.

"Huddersfield and Fulham threw the games away, but beating a League One League Two team can give you confidence," he added.

"The league is important but having a good run is important to. Winning games, it breeds confidence going into the Premier League."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-slammed-pundits-viewing-fa-15639479


WhiteJC

 
'He's our penalty taker and it was just unfortunate that he missed': Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri offers backing to Aleksandar Mitrovic after disastrous FA Cup miss against Oldham

    Fulham were knocked out of the FA Cup by League Two side Oldham Athletic
    Aleksandar Mitrovic saw his penalty kick saved with the scores tied at 1-1
    Premier League hosts then paid the price as Callum Lang headed late winner
    But manager Claudio Ranieri backed Serbian striker Mitrovic after his miss

Claudio Ranieri has backed Aleksandar Mitrovic to take Fulham's next penalty despite the Serbia striker missing from the spot in Sunday's 2-1 FA Cup loss to Oldham.

Mitrovic failed to convert a penalty before League Two side Oldham stole a late winner to stun their Premier League hosts at Craven Cottage.

The former Newcastle player proved Fulham's hero when netting a last-gasp winner in the 1-0 home victory over Huddersfield on December 29.

Aboubakar Kamara defied team orders to take - and miss - a penalty only for Mitrovic to save the day against the Terriers.

Ranieri conceded Mitrovic missing on his very next penalty opportunity proved rotten bad luck - but nothing more.

'I wanted Aleksandar to take the penalty,' said Ranieri.

'He's our penalty taker and it was just unfortunate that he missed, especially after what happened previously.

'But I will definitely back him to take the next one. I have no problems with that, or Aleksandar.'

Denis Odoi put Fulham ahead after a goalless first half, only for the hosts to fail to wrap up what should have proved a routine victory.

Instead Sam Surridge equalised from a penalty of his own, before Mitrovic failed with his spot-kick.

And then at the death Callum Lang powered home a header to stun Fulham and spark jubilant on-field and touchline celebrations from a delirious Oldham contingent.

A frustrated Ranieri must now pick up his Fulham side for Saturday's crucial Premier League relegation scrap at Burnley.

The Italian handed starting berths to a string of fringe players and will no doubt restore his regular XI at Turf Moor.

'I gave chances to players but they missed the chance,' said Ranieri. 'I didn't see the passion, or the desire. I only saw passion and desire from Oldham.'

Oldham's caretaker boss Pete Wild remains unsure whether he will even lead his home-town club into the fourth round.

The academy coach has supported Oldham all his life and gave away his train and match tickets to take his place in the Craven Cottage dugout.

Wild has already insisted he will happily return to his academy role and a place in the stands as a fan should Oldham look elsewhere for a permanent new manager.

But the Latics fan in him is clear about who he would love his club to face next.

'I want Manchester United away, because in 1994 they ruined my childhood!' joked Wild, referring to Oldham losing out to the Red Devils in that year's FA Cup semi-finals.

'I'll always remember that Mark Hughes goal, so I owe them one! This victory means so much to me and my family; we are all Oldham people.

'To give something back to what is a small town overshadowed by bigger neighbours, and a town that's given me so much, that's such a proud feeling.'


https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6565475/Fulham-boss-Claudio-Ranieri-offers-backing-Aleksandar-Mitrovic-penalty-miss.html

WhiteJC

 
It's Not Losing To A Division 2 Team, It's The Fact Fulham Only Had 2 Shots On Goal

IT'S NOT LOSING TO A DIVISION 2 TEAM, IT'S THAT FULHAM ONLY HAD 2 SHOTS AT GOAL IN 90 MINS.

Fulham's defence has been the laughing stock of the EPL this season with the worst goal against figures throughout Europe's top divisions. With a strong team (on paper), selected by Claudio Ranieri, fans would have been expecting a clean sheet and a few goals to our credit.

Not taking away anything from Oldham Athletic, the 3,000 or so travelling fans were superb throughout the match. Loudly over-singing the home crowd, and thoroughly deserving the victory, their team were well organised and allowed Fulham just two shots on target. One being a goal from Fulham's best player Denis Odoi and the other an awful penalty kick from Mitrovic.

Even the introduction of fan's favourite Ryan Sessegnon backfired quickly, as he wrestled an Oldham player to the floor following a corner kick, which was converted simply from the resulting penalty.

Before this, Kebano had a perfect chance to put Fulham two goals up when he squandered a one on one with Oldham's fine young goalkeeper, and put his shot wide of the far post.

Another game, two goals conceded, this time against a team from Division 2, and at home. This is just not acceptable for a team in the EPL. Even worse was just managing two attempts on target during the whole match.

Fulham fans were left frustrated at the efforts and commitment shown by the players and booed them and Ranieri at the end. The honeymoon period for the Italian manager is well and truly over. Only if he can get some quality players in, and keep the team safe from what looks like certain relegation, should he be seen as a hero and keep his job for another season.

If Fulham do get relegated, the debate will go on whether Fulham sacked Jokanovic too early.

My original opinion was that he had to go due to no plan B, and dismissing any suggestions that the player's at his disposal were not good enough to continue with his possession style tactics.
On the other hand, we have now gone in complete reverse, with defence at the heart of Ranieri's main objectives, and hitting our opponents on the break.

My question is the same, do we have the players capable of delivering either of the two managers objectives?

I believe the answer is no to both. The players brought in are not good enough to play either style. We need experienced EPL players. Cahill would be a good start. My concern is that the powers that be, do not make the same mistake once again by bringing in unproven Premier League stock. As we have seen so far this season, a good player in Spain or Italy etc, does not mean they will automatically make the change to this tougher league of ours, with the strength, fitness and total commitment needed week in and out. Only time will tell.



https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/its-not-losing-to-a-division-2-team-its-the-fact-fulham-only-had-2-shots-on-goal/

WhiteJC

 
Fulham will get battered by Burnley if we repeat FA Cup display, warns Denis Odoi

Denis Odoi has warned his Fulham team-mates they will get "battered" by Burnley on Saturday if they repeat the performance that led to them being dumped out of the FA Cup by League Two Oldham.

When defender Odoi put Fulham ahead after 52 minutes, it looked as though they would be in the hat for tonight's  fourth-round draw.

However, Sam Surridge and Callum Lang struck in the final 14 minutes, while goalkeeper Daniel Iversen also saved Aleksandar Mitrovic's 84th-minute penalty, to secure a memorable win for Oldham.

Fulham now have to dust themselves down ahead of a crucial match at Burnley, who are just four points above them in the Premier League in 16th place.

Odoi said: "If we are going to play [like we did] today, we are going to get battered [at Turf Moor]," Odoi told Standard Sport.

"We know how to play them. We showed at home in the beginning of the season how we can play them [Fulham beat Burnley 4-2 in August] and what they don't like.

"We need to realise this and be able to bring that mental fight to Burnley because I think today was all about mentality. It was about going into a game and saying: 'We are going to put up a good display, we are going to fight. If they are going to be aggressive, we are going to be as aggressive but play better football.' And today we didn't do that."

Oldham were worthy winners. Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri made six changes from the side that lost 4-1 against Arsenal on New Year's Day but those who came in failed to stake their claim for a spot in the team.

"I couldn't care less about my goal," said Odoi. "I mean it [the feeling] is disappointment all over, obviously shameful. It is just not good enough from our part. We realise that.

"I think we know where some things went wrong but it is up to us to talk it out between one and other and then focus on Burnley."

A defeat by a team in League Two could be viewed as a wake-up call for Fulham, who will now solely be concentrating on avoiding relegation from the Premier League.

However, Odoi believes the players should already be well aware of the situation in which they find themselves.

"I mean, which wake-up call do we need? We are second to last in the table, so I didn't need to get kicked out of the FA Cup against Oldham to be woken up," Odoi added.

"I was awake already. So this is not a reality check for us or anything.

"The reality is that we are second to last and it is going to be a tough season, and whether we would have won against Oldham or not it is still the same."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham/fulham-will-get-battered-by-burnley-if-we-repeat-fa-cup-display-warns-denis-odoi-a4032521.html


WhiteJC

 
Manchester United Off Sale

Tickets for Fulham v Manchester United are now currently off sale. Season Ticket Holders will be able to purchase remaining seats in block P4 from 10am on Tuesday 8th January, maximum 4 tickets per person.

Once all seats in this block have been sold, 18/19 Members will then have a priority 24 hour window to purchase in other areas of the ground, maximum two tickets per person.  After this time, the priority window will extend to Season Ticket Holders and, subject to availability, supporters with a booking history thereafter (maximum two tickets per person).

Further information will be made available on fulhamfc.com.

T&Cs apply. All tickets subject to availability.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/january/07/united-off-sale

WhiteJC

 
Liverpool transfer news: Wolves' £15m interest in Divock Origi could derail Fulham deal
LIVERPOOL striker Divock Origi looks destined to leave Anfield - and two Premier League sides are battling for his services.

Jurgen Klopp is shuffling his squad as he looks to maintain a title push.

Origi, 23, has been a peripheral figure for the Merseyside heavyweights in recent months.

He spent the previous campaign of loan at Wolfsburg and has barely featured this season.



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1068475/Liverpool-transfer-news-Wolves-Divock-Origi-Fulham

WhiteJC

 
Exclusive: Chelsea giant set to join Fulham on free transfer

Chelsea are ready to grant Gary Cahill a free transfer to enable him to make his move to Fulham, Football Insider understands.

Fulham were initially keen to sign the 6ft 4in centre-back (source: Transfermarkt) on loan from Chelsea, but the Cottagers are unable to make any more loan signings from any of their Premier League rivals as they already have two players on loan from Premier League clubs in the shape of Arsenal's Callum Chambers and Timothy Fosu Mensah from Manchester United.

The loan situation was holding up any move for Cahill, but now Chelsea are ready to let him leave for free as reward for his seven year service to the club after joining from Bolton in January 2012.

Cahill is in the final six months of his contract at Chelsea and is keen to move on in search of regular first-team football after finding himself out of favour under Maurizio Sarri.

The 33-year-old has made only one appearance for Chelsea in the Premier League this season with another six in the cup competitions.

Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri is desperate to bolster his defence during this month's transfer window with the club having the worst defensive record in the Premier League so far this season with 47 goals conceded in 21 games.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-chelsea-giant-set-to-join-fulham-on-free-transfer/


WhiteJC


Cardiff join Crystal Palace and Fulham in Victor Moses pursuit — report
Another party interested in the forgotten Chelsea winger/wing-back

According to the Evening Standard, Cardiff have joined Crystal Palace and Fulham in the chase for Victor Moses this winter.

Moses, who had been a regular in Chelsea's starting lineups during the previous two seasons with Antonio Conte at the helm, has barely had any minutes on the pitch under new coach Maurizio Sarri. The 28-year-old's last appearance for the club was two months ago, in a 33-minute cameo during the 3-1 win over BATE Borisov in the Europa League group stages.

Front-runners Palace were reportedly interested in buying Moses outright for £12 million this month. However, their current priority is to bring forth a new striker, with Chelsea's Michy Batshuayi reportedly being looked at as one of their options.

This is where Cardiff come in. They hope they can swoop in for Moses while Palace focus on their striker pursuit, taking the former Nigerian international from Stamford Bridge on a loan deal until the end of the season.

Cardiff coach Neil Warnock is looking for a right wing-back, after his preferred target, Liverpool's Nathaniel Clyne, joined Bournemouth instead of the Bluebirds. Moses would fit the bill as Cardiff, who have gathered 18 points in 21 Premier League matches to sit only two points above the relegation zone, try to salvage their season.



https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours-news/2019/1/7/18172177/cardiff-join-crystal-palace-and-fulham-in-victor-moses-pursuit-report

WhiteJC

 
Forget Fosu-Mensah: Fulham would be able to bag a quality player by signing this Fenerbahce star

Why Fulham must sign Mauricio Isla on loan from Fenerbahce

Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri is confident he'll be backed by his chairman in the transfer market after seeing Fulham get knocked out of the FA Cup by League Two side Oldham.

The Cottagers fell prey to Oldham at home on Sunday, which compounded more misery on Claudio Ranieri who replaced Slavisa Jokanovic in November. Yet, results have hardly improved for Fulham as they continue to battle against relegation.

Reinforcements are necessary for the Cottagers if they are planning to stay in the top-flight. Without new additions, Fulham's path looks rocky and is going straight back to the Championship. And after conceding 47 goals in 21 league games, it's a no-brainer for Ranieri to strengthen his backline.

Ranieri has given Timothy Fosu-Mensah the green signal to cut short his loan spell and return to Manchester United. Fosu-Mensah joined Fulham on a season-long loan but has found first-team football hard to come by. And the possibility of terminating the Dutchman's loan spell could free up positions in their squad for January reinforcements.

Truth be told, Fosu-Mensah could do Fulham a favour by returning to Manchester United as he has hardly played under Ranieri. Plus, United are short of defenders at the moment and his presence would give Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a timely boost as well.

By ending Fosu-Mensah's loan spell early, Fulham must make a move for Fenerbahce star Mauricio Isla.

Mauricio Isla, 30, started his career in the youth system of Universidad Católica before joining Udinese in 2007. Since then, the Chilean has spent his entire career in Italy, enjoying spells with Juventus, QPR, Marseille, and Cagliari before joining Fenerbahce in 2017.

A right-back by trade, Mauricio Isla can play in a variety of positions across the backline and also as a right midfielder. He is a skilful player known for his versatility and work ethic. The 30-year-old is a tactically versatile, hard-working and tenacious player – a dream for any manager.

Blessed with a good technique and engine, the Chilean could be a resourceful addition for Fulham. Due to Isla's flexibility, stamina, athleticism and 1 vs 1 defending, Ranieri would be able to deploy him in the defence.

The 30-year-old is a vastly experienced player and would be a better bet than the current defensive options at Fulham.

Should Ranieri manage to land Isla on loan at Craven Cottage, the move would represent a significant piece of business.



https://soccersouls.com/2019/01/08/forget-fosu-mensah-fulham-would-be-able-to-bag-a-quality-player-by-signing-this-fenerbahce-star/