Grant McCann's tactical quality will ensure Hull City have every chance of beating Fulham again
The Tigers beat Fulham 3-0 in November when they met at Craven Cottage
Based on Hull City's last two Championship performances, another victory can be expected when they host Fulham on Saturday, writes Peter Swan.
City are currently on a three-match winning streak in all competitions, all of which have come away from home.
When the two sides last played at Craven Cottage in November, Grant McCann's side had just 24 percent of the match possession, but because the tactics deployed that day were so spot on, that was all that was required for the Tigers to earn a 3-0 win in west London.
I can see that being a similar theme when the two sides meet again this weekend. City have shown a lot of grit in recent weeks to pick up victories when they are not at their best and, therefore, the same can be expected on Saturday.
Alongside Leeds, Fulham are the only side in the Championship to have averaged more than 59 percent possession in league matches this season, but their inability to kill games off has been their downfall and it is why City beat them so comfortably in November.
To stand any chance of back-to-back wins over Fulham for the first time in four years, City's players have to be up for it.
Anybody can beat anybody in this division, as the Championship often proves on a weekly basis. Any signs of dropping off or not being 100 percent from either side will probably be exploited, meaning that City will need to stay at it if they are to make it four wins in four.
It should be a really interesting occasion. Both sides are serious play-off contenders heading into the business end of the season and a win for either team will feel crucial this weekend.
Last weekend's FA Cup win has just added to the good mood among the team and the fans of late, especially when the reward is a test against Chelsea at the end of this month. Everyone will just want to be playing right now and keep proving their worth to Grant McCann.
I think McCann has been brilliant tactically ever since becoming Hull City's head coach. I would say around 95 percent of the decisions he has made, he has got right.
He should not need to change his set up this weekend and go back to the team that got the job done away at Queens Park Rangers and Sheffield Wednesday.
When everything is going well, like it is right now, players start returning from injuries and the confidence just keeps growing for as long as wins continue to happen.
Character has been tested to the max in each of the three recent wins away from home, but City have not shied away from that, and they have shown why they should not be laughed at when touted as genuine top-six contenders.
https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/sport/football/hull-city-confident-beating-fulham-3718510
Neil Warnock issues bold claim about Fulham's squad
Championship stalwart Neil Warnock has given his verdict on the teams in the division that have impressed the most, claiming that Fulham have the best squad.
Warnock, 71, has overseen three promotions to the Premier League at a trio of clubs, and most recently managed Cardiff City from 2016 to 2019.
Speaking to talkSPORT, the managerial veteran gave his verdict on who he feels are the best teams in the league, surprisingly not siding with either Leeds United or West Bromwich Albion – both of whom occupy the two automatic promotion places.
"I think Fulham's got the best squad, if I'm honest – in the whole league," Warnock claimed.
Many share the opinion of the former Cardiff boss, but Fulham have underperformed by their standards this season, as they sit in 5th place in the Championship.
The Cottagers were touted as one of the sides for automatic promotion this season back to the Premier League at the first attempt, but have fallen to defeat on eight occasions this term.
The good news for Fulham fans is that the option has been taken to buy Ivan Cavaleiro on a permanent deal from Wolves, with the winger committing to the club for the next four-and-a-half-years.
The Verdict
Fulham certainly have a great squad on paper, but have failed to live up to expectations so far.
With calls earlier in the season by fans for Scott Parker to be relieved of his duties because of the way his side have underperformed, the second half of the season will prove to be a vital period for the club as they look to return to the top flight at the first attempt.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/neil-warnock-issues-bold-claim-about-fulhams-squad/
Report: Player snubs Fulham for Swansea City transfer
Chelsea youngster Marc Guehi is reportedly joining Swansea City instead of Fulham.
According to The Telegraph, Swansea City have beaten Fulham to the signing of Marc Guehi from Chelsea in the January transfer window.
It has been reported that Guehi will join Championship club Swansea on loan from Premier League outfit Chelsea until the end of the season.
The report has claimed that the Swans' Championship rivals Fulham also wanted to sign the 19-year-old defender, but the teenager has chosen the Welsh club instead.
Good signing for Swansea City?
Guehi is a very talented and promising young defender who needs regular playing time in a competitive environment at this stage of his career to get better and to develop.
Swansea are aiming to finish in the top six of the Championship table this season, and the Welsh club would be a better outfit with the 19-year-old in the team.
Steve Cooper's side are sixth in the Championship table at the moment with 41 points from 26 matches.
The Swans will return to action on Sunday afternoon when they take on Cardiff City away from home at the Cardiff City Stadium in the Championship.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/01/09/report-player-snubs-fulham-for-swansea-city-transfer/
The Lowdown: Stoke U23s(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/19_20__academy_pics/u23s_19_20/thommo_placeholder_stoke_a_19_20.png?w=622&h=278)
Stoke City Under-23s are the visitors to the second game of the PL2 season hosted at Craven Cottage on Friday night at 7pm with the Young Whites searching for their first win of 2020.
Form:
Fulham:
Following the impressive draw against West Ham, Mark Pembridge and Colin Omogbehin's side have lost two on the spin, like their upcoming opponents. Defeats to Newcastle and West Brom have left the lads with only Norwich and Sunderland below them in the PL2 division two table.
Stoke:
After an excellent start to the season, The Potters have gone off the boil with only one win in seven games. Their last two games against Swansea and Middlesbrough have both ended in a defeat by the solitary goal. However, they still occupy the final play-off spot.
Last Time Out:
August Bank Holiday saw the Under-23s make the trip to Leek Town in the third game of the season where a resolute defensive performance and Timmy Abraham's strike sealing all three points.
He Said:
Fabio Carvalho shared his thoughts following the Newcastle defeat.
"As a team, the way we have prepared this week has been positive as we want to bounce back from Newcastle and the adversity we went through. We will work tirelessly on Friday to come away with what we want which is a win."
FFCtv:
The game will be streamed via fulhamfc.com for active FFCtv subscribers.
Tickets:
Tickets are priced at the usual rate of £3 for adults and £1 for concessions and are free for season ticket holders.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/09/stoke-u23s-preview
Ivan Cavaleiro reacts after completing permanent move to Fulham
Fulham winger Ivan Cavaleiro has shared a determined message after completing his permanent transfer to the club from Wolves earlier this week.
Cavaleiro initially joined the Craven Cottage outfit on loan from the Premier League side over the summer, but it has now been confirmed that the 26-year-old has signed a four-and-a-half year contract with the club.
This comes after the Portugal international has impressed for Scott Parker's side in the first half of the Championship season, with the attacker contributing five goals and six assists in his 26 appearances for the West London outfit so far.
Cavaleiro's exploits have helped the Cottagers climb to fifth in the second-tier table at the start of the new year, and he has now been rewarded by signing a deal at the club until 2024, while there is also the option of a further year in the contract.
The attacker has now taken to Instagram to thank both Wolves and Fulham supporters before then declaring he will give his all to help Fulham to success.
The Verdict
Cavaleiro has proven his exceptional quality at Championship level since joining Fulham over the summer, with this meaning the West London side's swoop for the attacker feels like a major coup.
The 26-year-old has shown he has the ability to add boundless creativity and goals to Parker's side, and his challenge will now be to start showing this on a consistent basis in the second half of the Championship season.
This is a superb signing for Fulham on the whole given that Cavaleiro can be an asset in both the Championship and top-flight, while it is excellent business for the Cottagers to seal his services at this early point in the window.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/ivan-cavaleiro-reacts-after-completing-permanent-move-to-fulham/
'Not sure how I feel about this' – Plenty of Fulham fans are torn over recently emerging transfer rumours
Watford are lining-up a move for Fulham full-back Joe Bryan, according to Sky Sports.
Nigel Pearson is said to be looking at Bryan as a potential signing this month, with his Hornets side having several first-team defenders out injured.
Bryan, 26, is in his second season at Craven Cottage after signing from Bristol City in 2018.
He made 28 appearances in the Premier League last year but couldn't save Fulham from their eventual relegation back down to the Championship.
This season he's played in all but one of Fulham's league games, scoring once.
His performances this campaign though have divided opinions at the Cottage – he's a respected Championship-level full-back but his defensive capabilities have been scrutinised by many.
Fulham announced the permanent signing of Ivan Cavaleiro earlier in the week, but that remains their only January business so far.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/not-sure-how-i-feel-about-this-plenty-of-fulham-fans-are-torn-over-recently-emerging-transfer-rumours/
Festive Giveaway Winners(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/fulhams_festive_giveaway/inside_story.jpg?w=622&h=278)
Back in December we launched Fulham's Festive Giveaway, a series of competitions offering supporters the chance to win some fantastic prizes!
Our winners were chosen in the build up to Christmas; first up were Steve Owen, Richard Freitas and Chris Elliot who won the chance to take part in our half-time crossbar challenge on the pitch at Craven Cottage at our Christmas fixture against Leeds United.
All three came agonisingly close to hitting the crossbar in front of a packed Hammersmith End. As part of the festive spirit, all three were rewarded with a signed home shirt, presented by Santa Claus himself.
Our next four lucky winners were all in attendance this past Saturday as Fulham defeated Aston Villa in the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup.
Scott Tanfield was the winner of two Matchday Hospitality places and enjoyed an afternoon spent in style at Fulham Palace prior to kick-off.
Liam Egan was presented with the much coveted pair of signed Aleksandar Mitrovic boots, while Keith and Angie Sapsed enjoyed a Press Room Experience, spending the day rubbing shoulders with journalists covering our FA Cup fixture and attending Scott Parker & Dean Smith's post-match press conferences.
Finally, Sadie was selected as our Fulham mascot for the day, getting the chance to walk out onto the Cottage turf with Kevin McDonald!
Congratulations to all our winners!
Fans can keep an eye out on fulhamfc.com for future opportunities to win exclusive prizes.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/09/festive-giveaway-winners
January Sales
January is probably the strangest time in the season for football fans. The transfer rumour mill churns out names apparently linked to clubs like there is no tomorrow, feeding on the insecurities that fans have about the squads of the teams they support. It can be a chance for clubs to cover holes left by injuries or to find that something special to help you reach your goals. For Fulham, we have had some absolute stinkers in the January transfer window, with Kostas Mitroglou in January 2014 jumping to mind immediately. I genuinely thought that he was going to waltz his way onto the Craven Cottage pitch and save us from our relegation woes. We broke our transfer record at the time for him but instead of our relegation saviour, the Greece international made three appearances for us and scored no goals. Disaster.
On the other hand, the signings of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Matt Targett in January 2018 turned us into a side feared in the Championship. If we hadn't have brought them in when we did, there is absolutely no way that we would have went up that year.
While I believe that we have a squad filled with wonderful players, I think that we need a couple of Mitrovic and Targett-esque signings before the transfer window closes at the end of the month. Defensively we are so poor. We've conceded 30 goals so far this season. That's nine more than Leeds at the top of the table. Michael Hector obviously feels like a January signing despite the fact that he has been training with the club since the start of the season. He was solid enough during his debut against Aston Villa on Saturday, but he did make an error for their goal. It would be great if we could ease him in, but really we need him to play out of his skin for the reminder of the season! There is a lot of pressure on him, hopefully he is up to it.
It's interesting that we have turned Ivan Cavaleiro's loan deal into a permanent one this week. I've really enjoyed watching him in a Fulham shirt so far this season and he has chipped in with a few goals and assists. If the rumours of a £15million fee are true, then it's a lot of money, but it does open up a loan spot in the squad so I could see us bringing in another loan.
If we go through the whole of January and all we do is get Hector fully registered and make Cav's move permanent, then I don't think fans will be satisfied. While going forward this team could be lethal, defensively we just aren't strong enough for promotion. One thing we can be sure of, though, is that we are likely to leave things to the last minute as usual. Hopefully we just don't leave it too late.
#COYW
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/01/january-sales/
Fulham, Brighton and Southampton offered player – Club wants to sell in January, €15m fee
Fulham were credited with an interest in Youssouf Sabaly in January 2019, but they failed to get the deal over the line.
Foot Mercato now claims Bordeaux will offload a few players in the winter market and the 26-year-old is included in the list. The Cottagers once again get a mention and it's claimed Fulham's €12m offer last year came in late, which is why the French club couldn't respond.
According to the report, the fullback is once again offered to clubs in England and this includes the Championship side, along with Crystal Palace, Brighton & Hove Albion and Southampton.
The Senegal international's current deal with the Ligue 1 side runs down in 2021 and Foot Mercato explains Bordeaux are demanding a fee of around €15m to open the exit door in January.
Even though Sabaly is offered to Fulham, Palace, Brighton and the Saints, there's no mention if any of these clubs have responded or expressed their interest in the player.
Sabaly is also of interest to clubs in the Bundesliga and La Liga.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-brighton-and-southampton-offered-player-club-wants-to-sell-in-january-e15m-fee/
City Date Confirmed(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/stadiums/shutterstock_editorial_10507237b.jpg?w=622&h=278)
Fulham's Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round tie against Manchester City has been selected for live television broadcast.
Our meeting at the Etihad Stadium with the holders will be shown live on the BBC, kicking off at 1pm on Sunday 26th January.
Ticket details will be released in due course.
The Whites' trip to Charlton Athletic was due to take place this weekend. A new date will be announced as soon as possible.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/09/city-date-confirmed
Hull City vs Fulham: Team News
Josh Magennis and Norbert Balogh are close to boosting Head Coach Grant McCann's attacking options are they close in on returns from injury.
Magennis joined in with training alongside the rest of the squad on Thursday with McCann weighing up whether or not the Northern Ireland international is ready to feature against Fulham at the weekend, while Balogh is due for a run-out with the Tigers' Under-23s against Bolton on Friday having not played since late October.
"Norbert will play for the Under-23s having trained with the group for the last three or four days and that is important because he's been out for about ten weeks now," said McCann.
"Josh has only trained with the squad today, so we'll make a decision on him overnight."
Keane Lewis-Potter was another who trained on Thursday after recovering from a knock picked up against Rotherham United in the cup last weekend, while left backs Callum Elder and Stephen Kingsley (both hamstring) will both miss Saturday's game with Fulham but are due to return to training on Monday and a week on Monday respectively.
Kevin Stewart (foot) and Jon Toral (knee) remain around four to five weeks away from a return to training.
Fulham will be without midfielder Harrison Reed for the trip to the KCOM Stadium, while Head Coach Scott Parker is assessing the fitness of a number of other players before making the trip north.
https://www.hullcitytigers.com/hull-city-vs-fulham-team-news/
Invitation : Hull City Supporters' Club
Our friends from Hull City Official Supporters' Club have invited visiting Fulham supporters to join them pre-match on Saturday. Please see below for details of their kind offer.
We look forward to seeing you at Hull.
Hi to all Fulham fans coming up to Hull for our match on Saturday
I'd like to invite you for a pre match drink at our "base" – The Tigers Trust Arena which is very close to the KCOM Stadium ahead of our match on Saturday 11th January. We'll be there from about 1.15pm until 15 mins before kick off and would love you to join us.
We will have a guest ex-Tiger being interviewed around 2pm for his thoughts on the match & the season ahead! We'll have an Open the Box raffle to raise funds for the Stroke Unit at Hull Royal Infirmary who looked after our late ex-Captain, Peter Skipper who sadly passed away earlier this year, and there'll be Sky Sports on the TV as well as convivial football chat.
The Arena sells both hot & cold drinks, alcoholic & non alcoholic and all ages are welcome.
We look forward to seeing you.
Safe journey!
Kathryn Townsley
Chair, Hull City Official Supporters Club
https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2020/01/invitation-from-hull-city-supporters-club/
Exclusive: Fulham set sights on signing Leicester 25yo, Rodgers willing to let go
Leicester City midfielder Daniel Amartey is a target for Fulham during this month's transfer window, Football Insider understands.
The 25-year-old is a long way down the pecking order at the King Power Stadium and is unlikely to break into Brendan Rodgers' high-flying side anytime soon.
A source at Fulham has told Football Insider that the club have held a long-term interest in Amartey and, after failing to sign him over the summer, are looking at making a move for him again this month.
It is understood Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers could decide to let Amartey to leave on loan so that he can get some valuable first-team football under his belt following his long spell out of action.
The Ghana international has not played a competitive senior match since breaking his ankle against West Ham 15 months ago.
Amartey is equally adept at playing in midfield as well as centre-back and his versatility makes him an attractive proposition to Fulham.
Cottagers boss Scott Parker is keen to add to his squad before the close of the transfer window as he looks to boost their promotion bid and Amartey's experience would make him a valuable addition to his plans at Craven Cottage.
Amartey was a member of Leicester's Premier League title-winning side of the 2015/16 season, playing the five games necessary for a winner's medal, and has over 60 appearances during his four years with the Foxes
https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-fulham-set-sights-on-signing-leicester-city-25yo-rodgers-willing-to-let-go/
Fulham eyeing up a move for Leicester City midfielder Daniel Amartey
Fulham are eyeing up a move for Leicester City midfielder Daniel Amartey during this transfer window according to Football Insider.
Amartey is struggling to break into Brendan Rogers' high-flying Premier League side and it is believed that the manager is willing to consider offers for the 25-year-old.
The London club were reportedly interested in making a move for the midfielder in the summer but it failed to materialise and they are now looking to pursue him again.
The Ghana international has not played a competitive senior match since breaking his ankle against West Ham 15 months ago and Rogers could allow Amartey to go in search of regular first-team football in the second tier.
Amartey can also play at centre-back highlighting his versatility and with Fulham looking to add fresh faces to their squad to aid their promotion push, he could be the ideal acquisition to help propel the Cottagers further up to the Championship table.
Amartey was a member of Leicester's Premier League title-winning side of the 2015/16 season but has only amassed just over 60 appearances for the Foxes since his move from F.C. København in the Danish Superliga.
He has played for his native Ghana at international level, making 22 appearances and this is another attribute which will be of interest to Parker.
At just 25-years-old, Amartey has plenty of years in which to develop further and following a frustrating spell out of action with injury, a move down to the Championship may be the ideal option for him to take.
https://the72.co.uk/154165/fulham-eyeing-up-a-move-for-leicester-city-midfielder-daniel-amartey/
International in, experienced defender out: How Fulham's transfer window could play out if rumours are correct
The January transfer window is shaping up to be an absolutely crucial one for teams throughout the Football League and that will be no different for Fulham.
The Whites will be disappointed with how the first half of their campaign has transpired, currently sat ten points off the automatic promotion places.
But whilst they are nestled inside the play-offs, things are far from over for Scott Parker's side.
Timelines have been alight with rumours of exciting incomings and devastating departures at Craven Cottage, and here we take a look at one of each...
Sabaly arrives
Fulham registered an interest in the full-back and Senegal international during the 2019 January transfer window, but Bordeaux were unwilling to let the defender leave.
However, their position has now changed and according to Foot Mercato the club are now keen to offload a host of players during this month – with Youssof Sabaly on the list.
The report claims that he will be offered to Fulham after their previous interest, so we could well see another pacey option down the right wing.
Bryan heads to the Prem
One of the more worrying rumours to emerge from this window is that of interet in left-back Joe Bryan.
Bryan has been consistently brilliant for Fulham this season, racking up a goal and three assists so far, so it is no real surprise that Watford and Nigel Pearson are looking at him as an option.
It will most likely take a sizeable offer for Fulham to part with him but according to Sky Sports News the Hornets injury crisis is forcing them into bringing in defensive reinforcements. So don't expect this one to go away just yet.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/international-in-experienced-defender-out-how-fulhams-transfer-window-could-play-out-if-rumours-are-correct/
Announcement imminent: Fulham midfielder agrees to join EFL club – Sources
Fulham midfielder Tayo Edun has agreed to join Lincoln City in a permanent move this month, Football Insider understands.
The 21-year-old is in the final six months of his contract at Craven Cottage and Fulham have decided to let him move this month.
A source at Lincoln has told Football Insider that Edun has agreed a two-and-a-half-year deal at the club and an announcement is imminent over his arrival.
(https://www.footballinsider247.com/static/uploads/1/2020/01/Tayo-Edun.jpg)
Edun, who has come through the ranks at Fulham, is highly-regarded within the corridors of power at Craven Cottage, but he has found first-team opportunities hard to come by.
The versatile midfielder, who can also play in defence, has seven first-team appearances under his belt for the Cottagers, having made his debut in the League Cup back in 2016.
He spent the first half of last season out on loan at Ipswich Town, playing seven times and scoring once, before seeing his spell with the Tractor Boys cut short as a result of an eye injury.
However, he has not featured in a single matchday squad for Parker's side this season and is on the brink of sealing a permanent move to League One with Lincoln.
A number of Football League clubs have shown an interest in Edun, but Lincoln have moved to lure the versatile performer to Sincil Bank.
The Imps are sitting 16th in League One after winning the League Two title by six points last season, with manager Michael Appleton looking to bolster his side for the second half of the season.
Edun is to become the second latest signing following the arrival of West Ham midfielder Conor Coventry on loan.
https://www.footballinsider247.com/announcement-imminent-fulham-midfielder-agrees-to-join-efl-club-sources/
Fulham preparing move for versatile Premier League midfielder
Fulham have made Leicester City midfielder Daniel Amartey a target for the January transfer window as Scott Parker looks to bolster his squad at a crucial time of the season.
Amartey has tumbled down the pecking order at the King Power Stadium this season under Brendan Rodgers and Football Insider have now reported that Fulham are set to test their resolve.
The report states that The Whites were interested in bringing in the 25-year-old in the summer but could not strike a deal.
However, it is now believed that Rodgers could be willing to allow him to leave on loan for the remainder of the season in order to play some first-team minutes.
A midfielder by trade, Amartey has also been used elsewhere during his time with the Foxes including including anywhere across the defensive line.
With his side currently sat in fifth place, Parker will be eager to see his side produce more of a challenge for automatic promotion during the second half of the season.
11 points currently separate them from second-placed West Brom at this stage, but things can change quickly in football, and Parker will want to see his side giving their all.
The verdict
I think this could be a good signing for Fulham due to Amartey's versatility.
Fulham don't need more options outwide, but having a utility player who can slot into any number of positions could prove crucial come the latter stages of the season, when injuries begin to pile up.
It will be interesting to see what else Parker has up his sleeve for the remainder of the window.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-preparing-move-for-versatile-premier-league-midfielder/
Fulham player closing in on permanent move to fellow EFL club
Fulham midfielder Tayo Edun is expected to join League One side Lincoln City on a permanent deal, according to a report by Football Insider.
The report claims that Edun is set to a sign a two-and-a-half-year deal at Sincil Bank and an announcement from the Imps is expected to be made imminently.
Edun has risen through the ranks at Fulham and has made seven first-team appearances for the club, but he's really struggled for game time over the past few years.
The 21-year-old, who the first half of last season on loan at Ipswich Town, last featured for the first team in November 2017 and hasn't been included in one of Scott Parker's matchday squads this season.
With his contract at Craven Cottage set to expire at the end of the season, Fulham have decided to cash in on the highly-rated midfielder and he will be hoping to get his career back on track with the Imps.
The Verdict
This could be a decent signing for Michael Appleton and Lincoln City. Edun is a promising young player and even though things haven't worked out for him at Fulham, he could be able to make an impact in League One with the Imps.
He's a versatile player, who is capable of playing in defence and midfield, so he could be a very useful option for Appleton to have in his squad.
Things didn't work out for him at Fulham, so he'll be determined to work hard at Lincoln and get his career back on track.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-player-closing-in-on-permanent-move-to-fellow-efl-club/
Sparkasse Cup Stream(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/190113spf8020.JPG?w=622&h=278)
The Under-19s have travelled to Göttingen to compete in the annual Sparkasse & VGH Cup. Last season the lads were knocked out at the quarter final stages of the small sided tournament.
Steve Wigley's side will compete in the VR Bank group with the times and dates of fixtures listed below:
Thursday 9th January:
Fulham vs JFV Rhume-Oder, 7pm.
SVG Einbeck vs Fulham, 8pm.
Friday 10th January:
JSG Weper vs Fulham, 4:17pm.
Fulham vs JFG Weser-Schwülme, 5:49pm.
Saturday 11th January:
Borussia Monchengladbach vs Fulham, 2:10pm.
Sunday 12th January:
Knockout phase.
You can watch the tournament unfold using the link below.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/09/sparkasse-cup-stream
Italian side make 'formal approach' for Fulham midfielder – French club have also submitted bid
Napoli are interested in a move for Fulham midfielder Jean-Michaël Seri and have made a formal approach to the club.
Seri is currently on loan at Galatasaray in Turkey but has struggled to rediscover his best form at the club after a similarly disappointing first year in England with Fulham last year.
There have been suggestions that he could be recalled and sent elsewhere and according to Radio Punto Nuovo, relayed by Calcio Napoli 24, Napoli are ready to give him that option.
They report that the Serie A side have made a 'formal approach' to Fulham to take the midfielder on loan.
Fulham want €18m for Seri, to get him off their books permanently.
Napoli can't do that sort of deal though, and instead, their idea was to sign the midfielder on an 'onerous' loan until the end of the season and include a purchase option, rather than an obligation in the deal.
Whether that would be acceptable to Fulham isn't mentioned, but Napoli are not the only side interested in the midfielder.
Lyon are also keen and, unlike, the Italians, have submitted an offer to buy Seri outright, although it isn't clear if they have matched the €18m asking price at this stage.
With Fulham keen on a sale, though, they would presumably be ahead in the race for Seri's signature at this moment in time.
While Seri looks like heading out, one man who may arrive is left-back Maxime Poundjé, with Sud-Ouest claiming Fulham are one of four clubs his representatives have contacted about a move.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-m/
Watford raiding the Championship to sign this top-class 26-year-old would be a coup
Why Watford should go all out to sign Fulham left-back Joe Bryan
According to Sky Sports, Watford are considering a bid for Fulham left-back Joe Bryan as Nigel Pearson looks to strengthen his defence.
Joe Bryan, 26, who joined Fulham from Bristol City in the summer of 2018, has been a regular fixture for Scott Parker's side this season, managing 27 appearances so far. He has bagged a goal and three assists across all competitions.
With the left-back enjoying an impressive campaign with the Cottagers, Watford must go all out for him this month.
Despite winning three games out of the last five, the Hornets still remain in the relegation zone. That simply tells the size of the job Nigel Pearson has in his hands after replacing Quique Sanchez Flores.
Pearson has instilled unity and fight in the players, with the mood around Vicarage Road slightly changing for good since last month.
However, the 56-year-old needs to do a lot more to help Watford avoid relegation from the top-flight. Signing a couple of new players should help him in his cause and the Hornets boss should prioritise strengthening the backline.
Watford have a long list of defensive injuries including long-term absentees Sebastian Prodl and Daryl Janmaat. Kiko Femenia and Jose Holebas have also struggled with injury problems, while Craig Cathcart suffered a knee injury in the 2-1 victory over Wolves.
For a relegation-threatened side that has conceded 34 goals in 21 games and is suffering from an injury crisis, it's a no-brainer for them to bring in new players.
That being said, Joe Bryan could be an answer to Watford's defensive injury problems. The 26-year-old is a defender who could add quality and depth to Pearson's squad.
As per WhoScored, the Fulham defender has averaged 2.9 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.9 clearances and 0.2 blocks. With a goal, three assists and 1.1 key passes, Bryan would be the player to offer Watford some defensive diligence as well as attacking threat down the left flank.
Verdict
Jose Holebas and Adam Masina have fared below expectations this campaign, and with the former set to turn 36 in June, it's high time for Watford to consider a long-term replacement for the Greek.
And a player of Bryan's ability and experience should make him a perfect successor for Holebas at Vicarage Road.
With the Watford side clearly lacking defenders, it is imperative for them to land a new defender to keep their hopes of staying up in the Premier League. Having said that, Pearson should go all out for Bryan this month.
https://soccersouls.com/why-watford-should-go-all-out-to-sign-fulham-left-back-joe-bryan/
Potential departure could pave way for Fulham man to get back into the side: Comment
Fulham's Joe Bryan has been linked with a move to Watford this week, and it could give full-back Steven Sessegnon the chance he's been waiting for at Craven Cottage.
Sky Sports have reported that Nigel Pearson is lining-up a move for Joe Bryan this month, with the Hornets having several first-team defenders out injured.
Bryan, 26, is in his second season at Fulham after signing from Bristol City in the summer of 2018. He'd developed a reputation at Ashton Gate as a fast and powerful full-back, capable of getting forward and helping out in attack.
Fans felt he was one of their better players in an otherwise dismal Premier League season last year but this time around, Bryan has received a lot of critics at Craven Cottage.
Nevertheless, Watford look keen on the full-back and if the deal goes through, Scott Parker has a replacement waiting in the wings.
Steven Sessegnon is a talented young full-back for Fulham but unlike his brother, Ryan, he's been unable to make a patch on the first-team as of yet.
The 19-year-old has suffered with injuries this season but has made a handful of appearances for both club and country, featuring on occasion for Aidy Boothroyd's Young Lions.
He's been kept out the team by Bryan who's played in all but one of Fulham's Championship games this season, with Sessegnon not starting a match for Parker's side since October – he's played just 53 minutes of football for Fulham since starting in the 2-2 draw with Charlton.
Sessegnon's omission from the first-team has been surprising for the most part but with an experienced Championship full-back in Bryan, game-time was always going to be hard to come by for 19-year-old.
But with the 26-year-old potentially leaving the club this month, it could give Sessegnon and unexpected chance to shine for Fulham in the second-half of the season, and properly introduce himself to fans.
They want to see him succeed at Fulham. After the excitement that his brother brought to the Cottage, expectations of Steven will inevitably be high.
But in the glimpses that Fulham fans have seen of Sessegnon, he's shown that he has similar traits to Ryan and that he could go on to be a really important, quality player for the club.
Time will tell with this one but it makes a lot of sense for Sessegnon to step in if Bryan departs – he's part of the future at Fulham, and could be an integral first-team member before the season's finale.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/potential-departure-could-pave-way-for-fulham-man-to-get-back-into-the-side-comment/
Quote from: whitejc on January 10, 2020, 12:13:13 AM
Potential departure could pave way for Fulham man to get back into the side: Comment
Fulham's Joe Bryan has been linked with a move to Watford this week, and it could give full-back Steven Sessegnon the chance he's been waiting for at Craven Cottage.
Sky Sports have reported that Nigel Pearson is lining-up a move for Joe Bryan this month, with the Hornets having several first-team defenders out injured.
Bryan, 26, is in his second season at Fulham after signing from Bristol City in the summer of 2018. He'd developed a reputation at Ashton Gate as a fast and powerful full-back, capable of getting forward and helping out in attack.
Fans felt he was one of their better players in an otherwise dismal Premier League season last year but this time around, Bryan has received a lot of critics at Craven Cottage.
Nevertheless, Watford look keen on the full-back and if the deal goes through, Scott Parker has a replacement waiting in the wings.
Steven Sessegnon is a talented young full-back for Fulham but unlike his brother, Ryan, he's been unable to make a patch on the first-team as of yet.
The 19-year-old has suffered with injuries this season but has made a handful of appearances for both club and country, featuring on occasion for Aidy Boothroyd's Young Lions.
He's been kept out the team by Bryan who's played in all but one of Fulham's Championship games this season, with Sessegnon not starting a match for Parker's side since October – he's played just 53 minutes of football for Fulham since starting in the 2-2 draw with Charlton.
Sessegnon's omission from the first-team has been surprising for the most part but with an experienced Championship full-back in Bryan, game-time was always going to be hard to come by for 19-year-old.
But with the 26-year-old potentially leaving the club this month, it could give Sessegnon and unexpected chance to shine for Fulham in the second-half of the season, and properly introduce himself to fans.
They want to see him succeed at Fulham. After the excitement that his brother brought to the Cottage, expectations of Steven will inevitably be high.
But in the glimpses that Fulham fans have seen of Sessegnon, he's shown that he has similar traits to Ryan and that he could go on to be a really important, quality player for the club.
Time will tell with this one but it makes a lot of sense for Sessegnon to step in if Bryan departs – he's part of the future at Fulham, and could be an integral first-team member before the season's finale.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/potential-departure-could-pave-way-for-fulham-man-to-get-back-into-the-side-comment/
Proof I'd ever needed that Charlie Jones doesn't know what to do with himself as a aspiring 'journalist' or sports writer.. trying to write about Fulham and joins football league world and can't even get steven sessegnon's position right.
Joe Bryan - left back
Steven sessegnon - right back.
Extremely frustrating reading half cooked things like this.
Quote from: General on January 10, 2020, 01:50:55 AM
Proof I'd ever needed that Charlie Jones doesn't know what to do with himself as a aspiring 'journalist' or sports writer.. trying to write about Fulham and joins football league world and can't even get steven sessegnon's position right.
Joe Bryan - left back
Steven sessegnon - right back.
Extremely frustrating reading half cooked things like this.
While I agree with the conclusion that many journalists (Charlie included) normally doesn't seem to know what they are talking about, I disagree that this particular item is proof thereof. Steven has played both left back and left midfield (and CB) for our youth teams as well as in the England youth teams all the way up to and including England U21. So it's safe to say that his career so far points to him being well capable of playing left back. Add to that Odoi's capabilities of playing both flanks, meaning Bryan's theoretical departure should in any case put Steven closer to a starting spot.
Whether Sessegnon can or cannot play on the left is secondary to the fact that he is not an adequate replacement for Bryan.
Quote from: Neil D on January 10, 2020, 05:07:07 PM
Whether Sessegnon can or cannot play on the left is secondary to the fact that he is not an adequate replacement for Bryan.
I initially read it like it was suggested that a potential sale of Bryan would increase Sessegnon's chances of playing, which is true (everything else alike). Reading it again, it does appear like the author clearly seem to think that Sessegnon was primarily kept out by Bryan, which is of course incorrect since it has been clear that he has been primarily considered on the right side. So I agree with General in so far that the author seem surprisingly uninformed. I disagree however with the reason being that Sessegnon
is a right back and as such could not replace Bryan. The author actually happens to almost reach a decent conclusion (that it may give Sessegnon another chance to shine), albeit seemingly by chance.
Further, whether or not Sessegnon is actually an adequate replacement for Bryan (which, at least at this point, is of course a subjective opinion in itself and not a fact by the way) was not even discussed really was it?