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Collins calls for a response against Fulham
Heading to Fulham on Friday evening, Wolves under-23 head coach James Collins is preparing to rotate his pack during what is a busy schedule for his side.

Wolves go into the game off the back of their largest defeat of the season, having fallen to a heavy 5-0 loss to Norwich City on Monday, but just four days later, Collins' side have a chance for redemption when they face the Premier League 2 Division 2 leaders.

On a busy schedule of games
"Most of the players are fit, but we've got four games in 13 days. With Hugo [Bueno], he's had a hamstring and has only just got back, Tippo's [Ollie Tipton] coming back from an injury so will play those four games, but to try and win games, we're not going to put players out on the pitch and break them

"What we've had to do over these last two games and the next two, is juggle the team around a little bit. That maybe means we're not putting our strongest team out onto the pitch each game, and hopefully they're competitive – but it certainly wasn't [against Norwich].

"On paper it should have been competitive, but that shows it was the performance as oppose to the selection, but they'll be changes again on Friday as there is also the Youth Cup game the account for next week.

"We'll select the team on merit, but also try to look after them as well."

On a heavy loss at home to the Canaries
"It was a well deserved defeat. I thought they were too much for us. The front three for them were exceptional. We knew they were good because they've had a lot of games recently where they've scored three or four, so they're good for this league.

"But the disappointing thing is that they were open as well, and we could have caused them more problems than we did, but we've got to defend better than we did.

"It's not a good recipe for success if you defend poorly and you attack poorly, and that's what we did.

"It's a good lesson for them, a good lesson to see where some of them are, and we've got a good opportunity on Friday to go to Fulham, who are clear at the top of the league, and see if we can respond to that."

On struggling at both ends of the pitch
"The frustrating thing for me was that we prepared for exactly how the game was. We knew their front three were their threat. We knew that if we held a good shape and were hard to get through, they might have a little bit of the ball at the back, but that would protect us.

"I thought we'd stop them, they'd give us the ball and we'd have some really good chances on the counter-attack – and that was exactly how it was.

"But they go through us too easily in that shape and then when you're two down, you have to make some changes because you have to get the ball back.

"Once we opened up against them, we probably looked a threat, but they looked even more of a threat and, in the end, how we approached the first 20 minutes of the game has cost us a beating."

On a tough lesson for his players
"I say this most weeks, but whether we win, lose or draw, it doesn't decide whether you get players in the first-team or it doesn't decide a career, but they have to learn quickly.

"It's a tough school. They're about to go into a first-team environment where the scorelines matter and I thought today we looked like Academy kids who were finding the game tough.

"A lot of first-teams find games like this where they find it tough, but they dig in, respond, and find a way back into the game, or at least keep the game at a reasonable scoreline, but we didn't do that.

"We looked like Academy kids out there, which some of them are, but they've got to learn quickly because if they want to get into a first-team environment, that's what they've got to do."



https://www.wolves.co.uk/news/under-23/20211202-collins-calls-for-a-response-against-fulham/

Report names the six clubs who've made enquiries about Mitrovic + reveals Fulham's stance on potential sale

Fulham have had enquiries from several of Europe's top clubs for Aleksandar Mitrovic, but the London club are insistent that the Serb is not for sale, reports TEAMtalk.

Mitrovic, 27, has scored 21 goals in 19 Championship outings this season. The striker has been in fine form for both club and country and has started to attract outside interest.

Villarreal were linked last month before it was revealed that Juventus were also keen. Now though, TEAMtalk have revealed that Fiorentina, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, Nice, Lille and Juve too have all made 'enquiries' about both a potential January and a summer move, whilst revealing Fulham's stance on a potential sale.

They report that Fulham are 'intent' on keeping Mitrovic in their bid for promotion and that they will 'not be entertaining' any offers for Mitrovic.

Star striker
In the one Championship fixture that Mitrovic hasn't featured in this season, Fulham failed to score. Whilst they're a team rich in depth and quality, Mitrovic really is the star of the show this season and losing him in January would prove a huge blow to Marco Silva's side.

But the club seem insistent on keeping the striker. He remains on a long-term contract and so, should Mitrovic's head be turned by some of the interest shown in him then Fulham can barter for a higher price.
That seems unlikely though – Mitrovic has long loved his life in London and he looks to be as happy as he ever has playing his football for Fulham this season.

The fact that names like Juventus and Bayern Munch are showing an interest is a credit to him and the way Fulham are playing this season.

Up next for the Whites is a clash v 2nd-place Bournemouth this Friday.



https://the72.co.uk/256679/report-names-the-six-clubs-whove-made-enquiries-about-mitrovic-reveals-fulhams-stance-on-potential-sale/

Nixon provides promising Fulham update on Angelo Fulgini pursuit after Burnley join race

Alan Nixon says that Fulham are 'more keen' on signing Angers' Angelo Fulgini, after it was revealed that Burnley have now joined the race to sign the midfielder.

Fulham have been linked with an £18million move for Angers' midfielder Fulgini.

The 25-year-old is keen to come to England and Fulham could hand him that oppurtunity in January, with the Whites looking as though they're set to lose Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa to either Napoli or Crystal Palace.

But yesterday, reports revealed that Burnley have now shown an interest in Fulgini too.

Taking to Twitter shortly after, The Sun reporter Nixon has revealed that Fulham are in fact 'more keen' on signing Fulgini at this point, saying:

https://twitter.com/reluctantnicko/status/1466046665048170500

Fulgini has established himself as one of the most talented no.10s in Ligue 1.

This season he's scored twice and assisted as many in his 15 league outings, playing a crucial part in Angers' solid start to the campaign – they sit in 8th-place of the table after 16 games.

Fulham have plenty of attacking firepower this season but with Zambo Anguissa looking as though he won't be playing for the club again, Marco Silva will want another midfielder in his ranks and should Fulgini arrive in January then it'll also bolster their promotion credentials.

As for Burnley, they continue to struggle in the Premier League and whether or not Fulgini would find Turf Moor an attractive move remains to be seen.

Up next for Fulham is a home game v 2nd-place Bournemouth on Friday evening.



https://the72.co.uk/256684/nixon-provides-promising-fulham-update-on-angelo-fulgini-pursuit-after-burnley-join-race/

Who will win the top of the table clash? Fulham or AFCB?

In a game that looked like the Cherries getting 3 points since the last home win against Swansea City, the game turned on one bit of action where after a poor back pass from one of our players let a Coventry City player in on our goal, Jefferson Lerma with a tackle brought the player down and immediately the referee pulled out a red card. From leading 2-0, with the second goal coming two minutes before the incident, AFCB with 10 men with 22 minutes of normal time still to play plus as it turned out 5 minutes of injury time, AFCB were shaken by two goals from Coventry City and one coming from the last kick of the game which snatched victory from the home sides grasp. It was a disappointing end for the home team, management and fans in very windy conditions. As it turned out the other challenging sides in earlier games didn't gain any advantage in their games.
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The next game is a top of the table clash between the two top teams in the Championship. The Cherries make the relatively short trip to London and Craven Cottage on the banks of the River Thames, the home of Fulham, the Championship leaders. The game is being played again live in front of the Sky cameras at 7.45 pm on Friday. It should be a cracking game with two good footballing sides pitting their wits against each other. It also will be the first return for Scott Parker and his backroom team to their old club, which they parted ways in the Summer after the London club was relegated from the Premier League. Fulham will be the last of the three relegated clubs to play AFCB, the other two who both visited Dean Court were West Brom which finished in a draw and beating Sheffield United.

The person to replace Scott Parker in the Fulham hot seat is the Portuguese, Marco Silva, who is no stranger to managing clubs in this country. He had been at Everton which he left in December 2019, Watford and Hull City. In the Summer Fulham signed midfielder Harry Wilson for £12 million from Liverpool, striker Rodrigo Muniz for a reported fee of £7 million from Flamengo. Two midfield players from Watford, Nathaniel Chalobah for £3 million and on loan Domingos Quina.

Fulham have won 7 home games, against Hull City 2-0, Stoke City 3-0, Swansea City 3-1, QPR 4-1, Cardiff City 2-0, West Brom 3-0 and Barnsley 4-1. Drawn with Middlesbrough 1-1 and Derby County 0-0. Lost 1-2 against Reading. Away they have won 6, D 2, L 2.

Fulham top the home table, P 10, W 7, D 2, L 1, GF 23, GA 6, GD 17, Points 23.
AFCB are top of the away table, P 10, W 6, D 3, L 1, GF 13, GA 5, GD 8, Points 21.

The last time we met Fulham at Craven Cottage was in October 2018 in the Premier League. AFCB went ahead in the 14th minute after Callum Wilson was fouled in the penalty area, Wilson took the penalty to make it 0-1, that was the score at half-time. In the second half, David Brooks put the away side 0-2 up and a minute later Fulham were reduced to 10 men when Kevin McDonald was sent off for a second yellow card after bringing Brooks down. Twelve minutes later Wilson scored his second to make it 0-3 and that's how it finished.

AFCB's away record at Fulham, W 5, D 5, L 4.
In all competitions, AFCB have W 13, D 9, L 11.

Fulham Team News
They have had an illness in their camp with some recovering and being able to play in their last away game at Preston. Amongst those missing Tom Cairney, also on their injury list are Ivan Cavaleiro and Nathaniel Chalobah.

Fulham Player To Watch
Alexander Mitrovic has scored 21 goals and has 5 assists in the league. He is the top scorer in the Championship. Apart from his last game where he still looked out of sorts after his recent illness, he has scored 11 goals in his last 8 games, including a hat-trick against West Brom. Our old loan player Harry Wilson is the second-highest scorer with 6 goals and leads with 7 assists.

AFCB Team News
We have a number out on the injury list and on one website it suggests those players could be available early into December, how many in time for Fulham remains to be seen. One big loss will be Jefferson Lerma who received a red against Coventry City and will miss this game.

AFCB Player To Watch
With Fulham's defence only conceding 5 goals at home, we need to take what chances we get and Dominic Solanke has scored in his last four away games. Jaidon Anthony has scored 4 goals in his last 4 games and Philip Billing also comes up with useful goals. At the other end, our defence needs to be on their game.

The Referee
Tim Robinson was in charge of our home game with Luton Town.

SteveJonesLegend wrote...

It all depends on the 11 that walk out there on Friday night... My feeling is it will be the same 11 (minus Jeff) that played V Coventry...

I didn't go to the Swansea game but if we let Fulham dominate us at the start like we did Swansea, I doubt they will let us off the hook quite so easily...

4-3-3 with Davis coming in for Jeff...

A point would be a great result given our recent run of injuries and form... – Join the conversation, click here.




https://bournemouth.vitalfootball.co.uk/who-will-win-the-top-of-the-table-clash-fulham-or-afcb/

BACK IN FROM THE COLD Ex-Barcelona target Jean Michael Seri on a hot streak at Fulham after suffering from ingrowing toenails in cold weather!

JEAN MICHAEL SERI used to suffer from cold feet.

But now the Ivory Coast star is really letting them do the talking at Fulham.

(https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/f82cc4ad-8e0e-4d34-bfc1-73e50bf60637.jpg?w=1240)
Jean Michael Seri used to suffer from cold feet but now they have been in form for Fulham

Seri, 30, arrived at Craven Cottage three years ago to a huge fanfare after the club paid Nice £25million.

It was seen as a transfer coup as Barcelona had tried to sign him just one year before.

Yet he had an awful first season at the club under first Slavisa Jokanovic and then Scott Parker, which ended in relegation from the Premier League.

Seri – who has spent most of the past two seasons on loan at Galatasaray and Bordeaux – suffered from ingrowing toenails in cold weather.

He said: "My toenails on my left foot were very painful when the weather was cold.

"I had to cut them every time because they grew into the flesh.

"It was something that had never happened to me before because I was playing in Portugal and the south of France where the weather was warm.

"Yet in England it was the first time I had played in cold weather and it was difficult. I had to wear a bigger size left boot."

But Seri has since fixed the problem and no longer suffers from the issue.

He added: "This time is different. I put cream on my feet and the problem has gone."

Championship leaders Fulham take on Bournemouth on Friday night in a top-of-the-table clash.

And Seri is now finally showing the Craven Cottage faithful why the club invested so much money in signing him.

The midfielder is right up near the top of the league's assists standings with six so far.

(https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/06fc5380-54ea-45f6-a0a4-f0d09cab574f-2.jpg?w=1240)
Seri arrived at Fulham with a bang, scoring a sensational goal against Burnley

He has also started 17 of the club's 20 league matches and been a commanding and calming presence in the middle of the park.

It is all a far cry from his first season at Fulham – which started superbly with a stunning goal-of-the-month winning strike against Burnley but quickly fizzled out in a campaign that saw the West Londoners crash back into the Championship.

But the Ivorian believes he has unfinished business at the Cottage and accepts his previous performances were not good enough.

Seri said: "I felt a lot of expectation when I joined. The Fulham fans had heard about me almost joining Barcelona so thought I would help them stay in the Premier League.

'HE'S BETTER THAN ZIDANE...'
SERI revealed he had to be told by a friend that Fulham fans had made up a song in homage to him.

The words go like this:

"We've got Seri
Jean Michael Seri
I just don't think you understand
He's Marco Silva's man
He's better than Zidane
We've got Jean Michael Seri"

And the midfielder said: "They sang it against Millwall and my friend told me the fans were singing my name.

"And I thought, 'No, they're not.'

"But I watched the game back on TV and heard it good, I heard my name.

"It gives you a lot of positive energy to go again and fight for them."


"Unfortunately things didn't go as we all wanted.

"The club spent a lot of money for me and expected better from me.

"I didn't give back something.. I must give the club something back for that investment so I'm glad to be doing so now.

"When you first come to England, it can be difficult. We can see this with a lot of players who come from different countries because it's very different here to other leagues.

"What I learned, reflecting on that season, is that you must have a winning mentality every day, not just on matchdays.

"If you have this mentality, you'll be ready for every game and that's the key as a professional player when you come to England. At first I didn't have that.

"What I mean by this mentality is winning every day, winning in every training session. You must not lose the ball easily and must try to win every challenge.

"If you have a game on Saturday, you can't start preparing on Thursday. You must be preparing from Monday to the matchday.

(https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/93b567ff-1d56-4b5d-afd9-3623c5202ebd.jpg?w=1240)
The midfielder spoke to SunSport ahead of the top-of-the-table clash with Bournemouth

(https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/b5dc6a66-eb1f-4fbc-946f-a0c2744f65dd.jpg?w=1240)
Seri has been in top form for Fulham this season in the middle of the park

"Do that, and you'll arrive at the game winning every challenge, you won't be giving away possession and when you're winning 1-0 you'll want to defend well to make sure you don't concede a goal. That is a winning mentality.

"And then you move on to the next game and go again. You must have this routine

"If you don't do this, it's impossible to be successful.

"I have told players in France that in England you must be perfect. If you're good, you'll be average or inconsistent. No, you must be perfect to succeed."

Seri had a good season on loan at Galatasaray, playing Champions League football, and when he returned to Fulham last summer with the club back in the Premier League, he was desperate to make amends.

But he did not feature in a single top-flight game and only managed 118 minutes of football in the Carabao Cup, coming on as a sub against Sheffield Wednesday before playing the full 90 against Brentford.

Seri was not even involved in a Premier League matchday squad so he decided to go on loan to Bordeaux during the January transfer window.

He said: "I had a positive season in Turkey so it was frustrating to not play.

I was thinking, 'Why does the manager not realise that I can help the team?' because I was in very good form and very confident.
JEAN MICHAEL SERI

"I was thinking, 'Why does the manager not realise that I can help the team?' because I was in very good form and very confident.

"I had learned from my past experience in the Premier League. If he gave me one chance, I could've helped the team.

"It was a big frustration and not what I expected when I returned.

"I spoke to Scott Parker before we started the season and that conversation must remain private. But he decided what he had to decide and it was a difficult situation for me."

However, when he returned from Bordeaux this year, new boss Marco Silva told the midfielder he was part of his plans.

And since then Seri has not looked back and has promised fans there is no chance of him leaving during the January transfer window.

He said: "When the gaffer arrived, he said, 'I want you to help us go up together into the Premier League.'

"I knew Marco from when he was in Portugal and I thought, 'Why not?' I wanted to stay here and my family like London too.

"The Championship is actually better than a lot of the leagues in Europe.

(https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/a0b40b0c-19c2-4956-b76b-18dd09886ef1.jpg?w=1240)
Jean Seri hopes to pay back Fulham by helping them to promotion to the Premier League

"I'm here for the whole season. I want to celebrate when we get promoted. I want to enjoy this moment with the club.

"Fulham deserves it because they've spent a lot of money on me. They deserve to be in the Premier League for many years and I believe Marco is building something good.

"And I want to pay the club back."

JEAN MICHAEL SERI ON ....
ALEKSANDAR MITROVIC: Everyone speaks about the goals he is scoring – but it's not just about that anymore with him.

Before, I knew Mitrovic as a striker, a No9 who would get into the box on the end of the long ball.

But, no, not now.

Mitro is coming back to participate in the game and that is very different and important for the team.

BOURNEMOUTH CLASH: There will be no surprises for us. We've planned everything. The manager has put something on the table – a plan and we've done everything he has told us.

What is being demanded of us is very easy. We don't need to complicate it.

We don't have to add anything. He is telling us exactly what he wants and in this way we can be successful together.

THE FANS: The way they're coming and pushing us, we must keep going.

Some months ago, we were without them so we're very happy they're back and we want them to push us until the end.



https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/16918542/barcelona-target-seri-fulham-cold-feet/

Scott Parker issues Aleksander Mitrovic verdict ahead of Fulham's clash with Bournemouth

Bournemouth manager Scott Parker has suggested that he is not surprised to see Aleksander Mitrovic once again be scoring goals in the Championship but insisted Fulham's threat is more than just him.

Parker managed to get enough positive form out of Mitrovic during the 2019/20 season in the Championship to help get his Fulham side over the line in the promotion race. The Serbian forward fired home 26 goals in his 41 league appearances that campaign and played a major role in their success.

However, it has been reported that last season in the Premier League, Parker grew frustrated with Mitrovic's inability to press more from the front and that led to him making the decision to decrease the number of starts the forward had. In total, the Serbia international made just 13 starts in the league last term scoring three goals.

It was reported over the summer that Parker and Mitrovic's relationship was strained and it was even suggested that the forward could look to move on if he had remained in charge at Craven Cottage.

However, Parker made the switch to Bournemouth instead and Mitrovic has been in phenomenal form under Marco Silva. He has already fired home an impressive 21 goals in his 19 league appearances and looks well on course to break the Championship's scoring record.

Speaking to Dorest Live ahead of his reunion with Fulham, Parker has suggested that he believes Mirtrovic's form this season is not a surprise but he also insisted that there is more of a threat as well coming from all of their attacking options.

He said: "I think there's threats all over the pitch. Obviously, Mitrovic has scored goals at this level and again this season in half the games, has got some numbers. But I think it is fair to say their threat is from set plays and of course all over the pitch, where there is a goal threat there."

The verdict

It must be difficult for Parker to watch Mitrovic go on such an impressive run of form this season in the Championship because it will only have raised even more questions about his lack of game time last term. There will be many who feel that had the Serbian started more frequently in the Premier League last term then there might have been more chance for them to survive the drop.

However, Parker has more than shown that his approach to management and his style of play can yield positive results during his time at Bournemouth so far this term. He has taken the Cherries to the next level after they reached the play-offs last season and it looks like them and Fulham are on course to be the league's top two this term.

Mitrovic has to be a player that Bournemouth put a lot of attention on when the top two meet on Friday night. The forward will be highly motivated to prove a point to Parker and therefore the Cherries' defenders are going to have to be at their best to keep him quiet on the night. If they can do that then Parker might be able to get one over on his former employers and secure a huge result for his new club.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/scott-parker-issues-aleksander-mitrovic-verdict-ahead-of-fulhams-clash-with-bournemouth/

Scott Parker comments on key difference between Fulham and Bournemouth tenures

Bournemouth manager Scott Parker has suggested that he feels he has more of a chance to stamp his authority around the Cherries as a football club than he did at Craven Cottage.

Parker enjoyed a largely positive spell in charge of Fulham where he managed to guide them back into the Premier League via the play-offs in the 2019/20 season.

However, despite gaining a lot of plaudits for some of their performances in the top-flight last term, in the end, it was an impossible task to keep them in the division and they ended up dropping back to the Championship.

The decision was made by Parker in the summer to bring an end to his spell in charge of Fulham and he made the switch to Bournemouth. Since taking over the Cherries he has helped to really establish them as one of the best two sides in the Championship this term alongside his old team and it looks like a potential straight shootout between them both for the title this term.

The two sides meet on Friday night in what is a major chance for one of them to strike a blow to the other in the race for automatic promotion this term.

Both Bournemouth and Fulham have shown a little sign of a potential wobble being on the cards in the last few games, so Friday's clash will be an important one.

Speaking to The Athletic head of Bournemouth's clash with Fulham, Parker insisted that he feels he has had more chance to stamp his authority around the whole of the football club with the Cherries. He also added that he looks back on his spell at Craven Cottage with pride.

He said: "Yes, probably a little bit more. I've managed to be able to do that. It's still early, it is only six months. But I definitely have come in and been able to recruit, and try and get a squad (together). To be more of a 'manager' of the football club, in that sense.

"I feel that I've been able to do that, really, which has been helpful.

"There are players that we gave opportunities to, we've developed along with a structure and a good group.

"Marek Rodak, Fabio Carvalho, Harvey Elliott. Antonee Robinson. Harrison Reed.

"I feel like we left the football club in a good place. I'm very proud of the work I did there. It will be something that when I'm long retired, and I'm sitting from afar looking back on it, (I'll see it is as) an experience. Two years I was there as manager, four years I was there as a player, six months as a coach. I'll have fond memories, proud memories.

"Football moves very quickly, people forget — even me — you forget. But when it's all said and done, I will look back on that time there as a successful one."

The verdict

It was a difficult ending to his Fulham spell for Parker and it seemed over the summer like his time there was up and he needed a fresh challenge to rejuvenate him.

That is certainly how it has transpired and he has shown that he learnt a lot at Craven Cottage and he is maturing into an all-around good coach leading Bournemouth to an excellent start to the campaign.

Parker is right to look back on his Fulham spell with pride because he did good work to get them promoted and then turned them into a competitive side in the Premier League. In the end, small margins were the difference between them being relegated last term and there was not much more he could have done to prevent that.

He has taken that on to his spell in charge of the Cherries, and as he says he appears to have more say in the overall running of the club at Bournemouth. That is clearly something he feels he needs to have control over for him to be a success at a football club in the long term. So, in that respect, his summer decision to switch clubs was the right one.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/scott-parker-comments-on-key-difference-between-fulham-and-bournemouth-tenures/

Parker refuses to be drawn on Mitrovic and Solanke comparison

CHERRIES boss Scott Parker refused to be drawn on comparisons between Fulham frontman Aleksandar Mitrovic and Cherries ace Dominic Solanke.

Two of the Championship's best marksmen are set to go toe-to-toe at Craven Cottage when their respective sides meet in the league tomorrow.

Mitrovic heads the division's scoring charts at present, with 21 goals from 19 league games.

Cherries frontman Solanke has netted 15 times from 20 appearances in the second tier this campaign.

Serbian striker Mitrovic scored 31 goals from 81 fixtures in total under Parker.

But since arriving at Cherries in the summer, the former Fulham head coach has already helped Solanke eclipse his goal record from last season in all competitions.

Asked to compare the two frontmen, Parker said: "Two very, very good centre forwards, who score goals.

"Mitrovic is very important to Fulham, like Dominic Solanke is very important to us.

"Two very, very good forwards, I wouldn't want to engage in that one."

Victory in west London would send Cherries back to the top of the Championship table ahead of the Cottagers.

Parker's side are currently seven points clear of third-placed Queen's Park Rangers in the race for automatic promotion.



https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/19757463.parker-refuses-drawn-mitrovic-solanke-comparison/

Jonathan Greening backs Aleksandar Mitrovic for Fulham stay on one condition

Jonathan Greening has backed Aleksandar Mitrovic to remain at Fulham past the end of this season provided they win promotion back into the Premier League.

The Cottagers have had a great season so far and have been scoring goals for fun, with Mitrovic the natural spearhead to their attack.

Indeed, he has every chance of breaking the Championship scoring record and when you have a player like that in your ranks you always have a shot at winning promotion.

Certainly, Fulham are well in with a chance of that this year as they lead the Championship ahead of their Friday night clash with title rivals Bournemouth, and Greening feels sealing promotion should help them ward off the growing interest in the Serb's signature:

"Aleksandar Mitrović has the quality to score goals in the Premier League. He can score all kinds of goals and he bangs them in the Championship. He's absolutely lethal and Fulham are strong favourites to go up.

"Every time he's been in the Premier League, he hasn't seemed to hit the same heights – with either Newcastle or Fulham. But, is that because the teams he's been promoted with aren't strong enough and aren't creating the chances? Whereas in the Championship, he's with stronger teams that are creating chances, which factor in.

"If he gets promoted with Fulham again, he will stay, the fans and club absolutely love him. He needs to start finding his goalscoring boots up there though. Most will see him as a top Championship player, but can he do it up there? If he does that, people will stop referring to him as that level."

Jonathan Greening was speaking to MyBettingSites



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/jonathan-greening-backs-aleksandar-mitrovic-for-fulham-stay-on-one-condition/

Bournemouth may stick with a three man defence against Fulham, says Scott Parker

Injuries in defence has forced the Cherries boss to seek alternative systems to compensate for the absentees

Scott Parker had told DorsetLive 'there is a 'possibility' of sticking with the change of shape, as initially trialled in their 2-2 draw with Coventry last week.

The Cherries boss previously revealed that prior to the game, the team only had '15 minutes' to work on the alteration, such was the doubt cast over the injury landscape. With both Gary Cahill and Lloyd Kelly injured, compounded by further longer term absentees Adam Smith and Jordan Zemura, Parker transformed the system, moving from his favoured 4-3-3 to a more defensively secure 3-4-2-1, as first disclosed by DorsetLive.

It is believed the change was precipitated by those injuries in defence as an extra player in the backline would provide greater cover. Given the discernible vulnerability on the left hand side with no Zemura, it was viewed as somewhat precarious to go with a back four which, essentially, included three stand ins.

Therefore, to compensate for the flux of injuries, Jefferson Lerma was brought into the middle of a back three, with Steve Cook and Chris Mepham alongside. This allowed Parker to shoehorn Jaidon Anthony into one of the wing back roles and at the expense of Leif Davis.

The changes enabled Bournemouth to garner greater control than they had done in previous matches, until Lerma was sent off in the 68th minute. The Colombian has also been charged by the FA for 'improper language and/or behaviour' after his dismissal. Bournemouth do retain the right for response, however.

With Lerma now out but the side having naturally more time to strengthen the 3-4-2-1 shape, Parker admits it is a decision he and his coaching staff have been thinking about.

"Yeah, it is a possibility, I think it is just down to needs must really. I really liked us at the weekend, I thought we played very, very well for 70 minutes. I thought we were every bit of a very good side, 2-0 up and had the game controlled.

"A big area I liked about us which I think we needed to improve over the weeks before that was with the ball. And I thought we really had a control with the ball and reduced our defending because of it, which helps. So yeah, there's options there to do that (use that system)."

Granted, a game away to the league leaders and fellow promotion contenders is not the time to experiment. But with Bournemouth showing much improved mental fortitude this season, as players and coaching staff have recently concurred, adapting to wholesale changes is not the burden it was last year.

Particularly if at least a couple of the seven players currently ruled out, namely Lloyd Kelly, are deemed fit to make the matchday squad.

"It is a top of the table clash and we're going to have to understand the mentality which is needed," said Parker. "We're playing against an exceptional side. They've done very well this year and have got quality all over the pitch.

"I think mindset, mentality, attitude, desire are all words you're going to have to bring to this football match on Friday. Along with quality, nous and experience at times, so the full package, really."



https://www.dorset.live/sport/football/football-news/bournemouth-stick-three-man-defence-6290701

Four talking points ahead of Fulham v Bournemouth
Colm takes a look at the biggest questions as we prepare for our biggest game of the season.

---

Top of the table, eight points ahead of third place, 49 goals scored, only 16 conceded – all this at the start of December. As a Fulham fan, you couldn't ask for much more – or could you? Scott Parker's acrimonious end to his Fulham tenure and swift move to the south coast added one more objective to Fulham's season – finish ahead of Bournemouth. And a script couldn't have been written any greater, than these two sides battling it out at the top of the Championship. This Friday sees Parker's return to Craven Cottage for the first time, and we'll take a look at some talking points ahead the game.

The starting XI
Marco Silva is 20 league games into his tenure as Fulham manager, and it's safe to say that he's started to figure out his strongest side, although the bug that's been going around over the last 10 days has disrupted that somewhat. Assuming everyone is fit and healthy, you'd expect the front four of Carvalho, Kebano, Wilson and Mitrovic to start along with Seri and Reed in the middle. Defensively, Ream and Tosin should both retain their spots, although there is still some debate around both full-back positions.

While Robinson has been deployed on the left more often than not, there are rising calls to get Joe Bryan back in the team. Both possess completely different strengths. Robinson tends to fly forward with great pace at every opportunity, but his end product can be questionable at times, while Joe Bryan's wand of a left peg can be used to great affect going forward. Defensively, I would like to see Bryan given the nod as I think his defensive solidity trumps Robinson's attacking prowess in a game of this magnitude. On the other side, Marco seems to have been flipping between Kenny Tete and Denis Odoi, with Odoi currently holding on to the jersey, despite Kenny's return to fitness. Personally, I think it's a no-brainer and Tete should be starting all day, but it'll be interesting to see if Silva tries to completely shore it up at the back.

The Bournemouth team
Bournemouth have been understrength over the past few games and Parker's comments this week haven't indicated that too many are on their way back. Already missing the likes of Kelly, Cahill, Smith, Zamura and Pearson, Scott Parker won't thank Jefferson Lerma, who's suspended following his red card last week. Dominic Solanke has been in tremendous form with 15 goals so far this campaign and must be kept quiet if we're in with a chance of getting three points. Philip Billing is having a fantastic season as well and will need to be closely watched too.

The Scott Parker reaction
Scott Parker's time at Fulham didn't end the way anybody wanted it to. He gave a lot to this club as a player and a manager, but the manner in which he left the club has left a bit of a sour taste in some people's mouths. The fact that he popped up so quickly at a rival club only enhanced that taste, and I for one have been keeping as close an eye on Bournemouth results as Fulham results to try and justify that the right decision was made. Fulham fans were 50/50 at the time about whether he should stay or go, but I think Silva's flying start has reassured most that they are heading the right direction.

A few comments in the media by Scott Parker have also irked Fulham fans, in particular his comments about Dominic Solanke being "the best striker in the league", which seemed to be construed as a pop at Alexander Mitrovic, a player shunned by Scott Parker during his time in charge. Mitro has outscored Solanke by some distance this season and is on course to break the Championship scoring records.

This week he also claimed that Fulham haven't changed much since he was there. "In terms of general shape and their general movements, they're quite similar", he told Jacob Tanswell. The Fulham of this season and the Fulham of the past two seasons are chalk and cheese. Marco Silva has instilled a free-flowing attacking style while also keeping a relatively sturdy defence compared to Parker's conservative Parkerball. For these reasons, Parker could be in for a frosty reception at the cottage on Friday.

Recent form
For the first 15 games of the season I wondered would Bournemouth ever lose and would we ever get a chance to catch them. They were in no way as emphatic as Fulham in their victories, but they were grinding out one and two-goal wins that were keeping Fulham at arm's length. However, the last five games have been a totally different story. While they have been missing players, I think teams are starting to figure out Parkerball and how to counteract it, which has meant they've only won one game in their last five, losing twice to Preston and Derby while failing to hold their nerve after taking the lead against Millwall and Coventry.

On the other hand, the Whites have really hit their stride with seven wins on the trot and only two goals conceded, until sickness around the camp disrupted them and resulted in draws against Derby and Preston in our last two outings. With nearly a full strength squad to pick from on Friday, we'll be hopeful of getting back to winning ways and opening a gap between themselves and Bournemouth.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2021-12-02-fulham-v-bournemouth-the-talking-points/

Bournemouth is just 'another game,' says Silva

Marco Silva has sought to downplay the significance of Scott Parker's return to Craven Cottage as Fulham prepare to take on Bournemouth in a clash of the Championship's top two tomorrow night.

The Fulham head coach told his pre-match press conference this afternoon that he was approaching the Cherries in exactly the same way as he has with every other opponent.

"For us it's another game. They are three points. I don't see this game differently to West Bromwich Albion, or Stoke when we played them as we were both in the play-off positions in the table. It's a game against a tough side that is there at the top with us, a team with a lot of quality, individual players with high technical quality. Good organisation as well.

The biggest game of the season? Definitely not. We don't look to the game in this way. Is it a game that we want to win? Definitely yes. It's a game where we are fully motivated, like we were in all the others before. Nobody can win seven games in a row if you're not fully motivated, nobody can be nine games unbeaten if you're not fully motivated.

What I want from the players, and from everyone in this football club, is to look to the game like we have all this week. It will be a tough game for us because of the quality of Bournemouth, but there's nothing more about it. Tomorrow I want to see all of us, all my players, all the staff, approach it the same way we have all season. Nothing more. It's Fulham against Bournemouth, not the names in the middle."

Silva knows his side will face a stern test of their promotion credentials, with Bournemouth only a point behind them following an impressive start to the season.

I think both teams are doing fantastic this season. We are really happy with the season we're having so far. Of course, I always want more, and my players want more as well. We are demanding more from ourselves as we always want to improve. Tomorrow we have another game, a tough game. I expect an open game with both teams playing to win the football match. This is the main thing for us."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/12/bournemouth-is-just-another-game-says-silva/

Pre-Bournemouth Press Conference

Marco Silva is approaching Friday night's game in the same manner he has every fixture.

It's top versus second at Craven Cottage as Scott Parker returns with his AFC Bournemouth side, but Silva is not entertaining any subplots whatsoever.

"For us it's another game," he said. "They are three points. I don't see this game differently to West Bromwich, or Stoke when we played them as we were both in the Play-Off positions in the table.

"It's a game against a tough side that is there at the top with us, a team with a lot of quality, individual players with high technical quality. Good organisation as well.

"The biggest game of the season? Definitely not. We don't look to the game in this way. Is it a game that we want to win? Definitely yes.

"It's a game where we are fully motivated, like we were in all the others before. Nobody can win seven games in a row if you're not fully motivated, nobody can be nine games unbeaten if you're not fully motivated.

"What I want from the players, and from everyone in this football club, is to look to the game like we have all this week.

"It will be a tough game for us because of the quality of Bournemouth, but there's nothing more about it.

"Tomorrow I want to see all of us, all my players, all the staff, approach it the same way we have all season. Nothing more.

"It's Fulham against Bournemouth, not the names in the middle."

The Cherries have enjoyed a fine start to the campaign and currently sit a point behind Silva's side.

"I think both teams are doing fantastic this season," he stated. "We are really happy with the season we're having so far.

"Of course, I always want more, and my players want more as well. We are demanding more from ourselves as we always want to improve.

"Tomorrow we have another game, a tough game. I expect an open game with both teams playing to win the football match. This is the main thing for us."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/december/02/pre-bournemouth-press-conference/

David Prutton issues prediction for Fulham's top of the table clash with Bournemouth

Friday night sees perhaps the biggest match in the Championship so far this season as table-topping Fulham take on second placed AFC Bournemouth at Craven Cottage.

The two sides are clear of Queens Park Rangers in third spot by eight and seven points respectively and they are clearly the classiest pairing in the second tier right now.

But in recent matches there has been a slight slump from both sides, with Fulham's seven-match winning run ended with a stalemate at home to Derby County last week before another draw, this time on the road against Preston North End.

The Cherries, managed now by ex-Fulham head coach Scott Parker, have only won one of their previous five, losing to PNE and Derby as well as drawing against Millwall and Coventry.

Those results prove that the Championship is as unpredictable as ever and the south coast club will have to go to west London without Jefferson Lerma, who was sent off against Coventry on Saturday.

EFL presenter David Prutton cannot split the two sides though for when they meet under the lights by the River Thames as he's going for a 2-2 draw.

"The runaway pair in the Championship meet at Craven Cottage!" Prutton said on his Sky Sports predictions podcast.

"Both sides have had absences in recent weeks but both have the squad to cope with it, and you are going to have spells like that during a season.

"We've also got the subplot of Scott Parker returning to Fulham, and he'll want to prove a point and get his Bournemouth side back to the top of the table.

"I fancy goals here, but I can't split the pair. Score draw."

The Verdict

This could literally go either way because the two sides are for one split by just a point in the table but have also suffered a drop-off in form recently.

Fulham may not have lost for a while but draws against Derby and PNE will be seen as a setback, and they'll need to be on top form here.

Lerma will be a big miss for the visitors though but Scott Parker has strength in depth fortunately if there are no new fitness issues.

I'm going for a narrow Cottagers victory though which would mean they stretch their advantage over the Cherries in the table to four points.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/david-prutton-issues-prediction-for-fulhams-top-of-the-table-clash-with-bournemouth/

Bournemouth Matchday Preview

Fulham v AFC Bournemouth | Friday 3rd December 2021 | 7.45pm | Craven Cottage | #FULBOU

The opposition

    Bournemouth enjoyed a long unbeaten run at the start of the Championship season, going 15 matches without tasting defeat before Preston North End got the better of them at the Vitality Stadium a month ago.
    That loss triggered a little dip in form for the Cherries, who have now won just one of their last five outings, though that one was an impressive 4-0 triumph over Swansea City.
    They had looked set for three points at the weekend having gone 2-0 up against Coventry City, but after a straight red card for Jefferson Lerma, things began to unravel. Matt Godden stayed on his feet for once to reduce the deficit, before Todd Kane equalised in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Fulham team news

Marco Silva revealed that Nathaniel Chalobah is now back training with the team, while Tom Cairney has recovered from the illness which ruled him out of our last two matches.

Bournemouth team news

Parker said in his pre-match press conference that it's unlikely he'll be able to welcome any injured players back this soon. That means the Cherries could be without Gary Cahill, Lloyd Kelly, Jordan Zemura, Ben Pearson, Junior Stanislas, Robbie Brady and Adam Smith. One player who will definitely miss the trip to the capital is Jefferson Lerma, following his dismissal at the weekend.

Tickets

Match tickets for this game have now sold out. Thank you for your terrific support! A limited number of hospitality packages remain.

Arrive early

Make sure you get to the Cottage in plenty of time to enjoy our early bird refreshment offers. Available until half an hour before kick-off – as will be the case at every home game this season – fans can take advantage of subsidised prices on a number of food, alcoholic and soft drink items.

Weather

There is a chance we could have rain at the Cottage, while temperatures will be around eight degrees.

Mascots

Wishing Sophie, Freddie and Riley a very warm welcome as our virtual mascots for this fixture!


Coverage

The match will be shown live on Sky Sports. Commentary from Gentleman Jim & Jamie Reid will be available to FFCtv subscribers.

Form

Fulham: WWWDD

Bournemouth: LWLDD

Player insight

Harrison Reed is relishing the opportunity to put on another show under the Cottage lights on Friday evening.

"For me, night games are the best, especially at home," he told FFCtv. "We seem to perform really well [in them] and the results always seem to be good.

"Friday night's one we're looking forward to, but it's just another game in a tough season.

"It's going to be a special atmosphere, I'm sure. The fans this season have been top drawer.

"Every home and away game they've been heard and they've driven us on, so I expect the same on Friday night, with a bit of an extra edge."

Pre-match quotes




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/december/02/bournemouth-matchday-preview/

Peter Rutzler shares Fulham injury latest ahead of Bournemouth clash

Fulham take on Bournemouth in the Championship on Friday.

Fulham currently sit in 1st-place of the Championship table and Bournemouth in 2nd, and on Friday evening the two will go up against each other at Craven Cottage.

It's become a huge game in the race for the Championship title and it's made even more interesting given the fact that former Fulham boss Scott Parker is the man in charge at Bournemouth.

Marco Silva is the Fulham manager, and he's had a fine season so far. And for tomorrow's game, he has few injuries to contend with.

The Athletic's Peter Rutzler revealed on Twitter earlier today that Ivan Cavaleiro will miss out, but that Nathaniel Chalobah is back in training and also that Tom Cairney is available for selection:

https://twitter.com/peterrutzler/status/1466401700302843915

For Fulham and Silva then, they look to have a near full-strength side at their disposal going into a congested Christmas period.

The club still have some longer-term injuries to the likes of Terrence Kongolo but during a time when injuries are usually rife within the English Football League, Fulham seem to be coping well.

Strength in depth
Going into this campaign, many were tipping Fulham for success, not only because they have some highly talented players in their squad but because they plenty of them.

Silva hasn't rotated his side massively throughout the campaign so far but he's used enough of his players to ensure his key ones remain fit for the busy periods.

Tomorrow night, Bournemouth will be looking for a win amid a dip in form from them. But it'll be a difficult for both sides given how well either side have performed so far in the league.

The game kicks off at 7:45pm and is available to watch on both Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Main Event.



https://the72.co.uk/256781/peter-rutzler-shares-fulham-injury-latest-ahead-of-bournemouth-clash/

Bournemouth manager Scott Parker discusses 'very important' Mitrovic ahead of Fulham showdown

Bournemouth manager Scott Parker refused to engage in comparisons between forwards Alexander Mitrovic and Dominic Solanke.

The two in-form strikers are set to face each other tomorrow night, as Fulham welcome the Cherries to Craven Cottage in what already looks like a promotion decider.

Mitrovic currently leads the Championship's Golden Boot race, netting a staggering 21 goals in 19 league games. The Serbian is looking like he will break the division's goal-scoring record in a single season, just months after Brentford's Ivan Toney netted 30 last time out.

Bournemouth no.9 Solanke has bagged himself 15 goals in 20 games this campaign. The 24-year-old has already equalled his tally from last season, something Parker can take great credit for.

Comparing the strikers, however, was a discussion the Cherries' boss didn't want to involve himself in.

Speaking to the Bournemouth Echo, Parker said: "Two very, very good centre forwards, who score goals.

"Mitrovic is very important to Fulham, like Dominic Solanke is very important to us.

"Two very, very good forwards, I wouldn't want to engage in that one."

Friday's match-up between first and second place will certainly be one of outstanding quality. The two sides are by far the best within the Championship at the moment, with a seven-point gap separating Bournemouth in second and QPR in third.

Both sides have managed draws in their last two games, the Cottagers earning themselves two frustrating points against Preston and relegation-bound Derby County.

The Cherries are winless in three, picking up just two points versus Derby, Millwall and Coventry. The latter fought back from a two-goal deficit with ten men, scoring two late goals against Parker's side to earn themselves a draw.

Whoever emerges victorious out of tomorrow's fixture will surely be the favourite to bounce back up to the Premier League. One certainty is that both Mitrovic and Solanke's performances will have a huge impact on their respective team's result.



https://the72.co.uk/256753/bournemouth-manager-scott-parker-discusses-very-important-mitrovic-ahead-of-fulham-showdown/

Marco Silva makes claim about Bournemouth clash against Fulham

There is a huge clash in the Championship this weekend, as two top of the table teams face off in Bournemouth against Fulham – and Marco Silva has spoken to the HammyEnd about the game ahead of the tie.

The Cottagers are the leaders in the league by just a point and a win for either side this weekend would see them take top spot and make it their own. Fulham could open up a four point lead over the Cherries with victory, while Scott Parker's side would leap above them if they bagged the win.

Despite the tie having such big ramifications – and being an important game – Fulham boss Marco Silva has been quick to play down the importance of the second tier tie, saying to the HammyEnd that he doesn't see this game 'any differently' when compared to other matches in the Championship.

The boss said: "For us it's another game. They are three points. I don't see this game differently to West Bromwich Albion, or Stoke when we played them as we were both in the play-off positions in the table. It's a game against a tough side that is there at the top with us, a team with a lot of quality, individual players with high technical quality. Good organisation as well.

"The biggest game of the season? Definitely not. We don't look to the game in this way."

Silva then is playing down the significance of the game and the result, perhaps as to not let the pressure build on his team before the game commences.

The Fulham boss has done well so far this season with his side, leading them 13 wins and just three losses so far this campaign. They're unbeaten in their last five too – and if they can make that six and pull off a win over Bournemouth this weekend, then it would go a long way towards establishing them as 'the team to beat' in the second tier this season.

The Verdict

Fulham and Bournemouth have both been very good in the Championship so far this year. They've picked up solid results and are well worthy of their current standings in the table.

A win for either side this weekend would be massive. No matter what Marco Silva says, a win is very important – and if Fulham could nab one, then it would put a little bit of daylight between them and the Cherries.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/marco-silva-makes-claim-about-bournemouth-clash-against-fulham/

Fulham v AFC Bournemouth


Scott Parker insists his return to Craven Cottage will be a sub-plot as the Championship's top two, Fulham and Bournemouth, go head-to-head on Friday.

Parker left Fulham for Bournemouth in June and just a point separates the two sides who have been the form horses in the division so far this season.

"It ain't about me," Parker said. "It's pure focus on us as a team trying to go there and get a result.

"We know we've got a massive challenge ahead against a very good side."

Bournemouth in second, are without a win in their past three games, but leaders Fulham have also had their quest to secure immediate promotion back to the Premier League checked in recent weeks. Marco Silva's side have seen back-to-back draws after a run of seven successive victories.

"It's a big game for both sides," Parker told BBC Radio Solent. "One point separates us, we're 20 games into the season and you've got the best two teams in the competition so far going head-to-head under the lights on a Friday night, so it's got all the makings of being a really exciting game."

Silva, Parker's successor in west London, is refusing to put much more significance on the fixture other than a chance to earn three more points.

"We're a [promotion] contender, they're a contender, but it won't be the first time that we'll have played against a contender this season," the former Everton boss told BBC Radio London.

"We've performed in those matches and we hope to do the same against Bournemouth.

"Whichever side gets the positive result will be the happier, but nothing will be decided after this match."

(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/976/cpsprodpb/13AB2/production/_121926508_mitro_solanke_combo_rex.png)
Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic and Bournemouth's Dominic Solanke have scored a combined 36 Championship goals already this season

Friday's fixture will mark Parker's first visit to Fulham since his departure in the summer.

Coincidence has it that he takes his current team to his former one with the two clubs leading the charge for the automatic promotion places and third-placed QPR seven points adrift of Bournemouth.

Parker led Fulham to promotion through the play-offs in 2020, but was unable to keep them in the top flight last season. The 41-year-old took the offer to move to the south coast to try and mastermind Bournemouth's return to the Premier League at the second attempt following their play-off semi-final defeat by Brentford in May.

"I'd like to think I'll get a good reception," Parker said. "But you never know with football these days.

"It will be good to be back and see some familiar faces who I've not seen for a while, but we're here now and I'm enjoying myself and what we're striving towards as a team."

Silva is also not one to be distracted by the former allegiances of his opposite number in the dugout.

"It will be a tough game for us because of Bournemouth's quality," he said. "The way they are playing and how they are managed are just two reasons, but there's nothing more than that.

"I want to see all of us, all my players, all the staff, approach it the same way we have all season. Nothing more.

"It's Fulham against Bournemouth, not the names in the middle."

Hot shots face off
Silva has seen his side entertain with 49 goals in 20 league games, including 21 in 19 appearances from striker Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Bournemouth are the second-highest scorers in the Championship, but still some considerable distance behind on 36 with 15 of those coming from striker Dominic Solanke, seven from midfielder Philip Billing and six from the impressive forward Jaidon Anthony.

Bournemouth will be without midfielder Jefferson Lerma through suspension while there are doubts over a number of players, including centre-back Gary Cahill.

Fulham are expecting to welcome club captain Tom Cairney back from illness.

If their last Championship meeting at Craven Cottage is anything to go by, goals should be guaranteed.

Bournemouth beat Fulham 5-1 in March 2015, the same season they won the Championship title, and also on a Friday night - with Parker starting in Fulham's midfield and Cherries centre-back Steve Cook scoring their fifth.

"I felt like I couldn't get out of my own [penalty] box all game," Parker joked to BBC Radio Solent.

"I remember the game very, very well. We [Fulham] got eaten up and then spat out.

"Bournemouth on the day were incredible, it was a big result."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/59426151

Up next: AFC Bournemouth (h)

The mouthwatering prospect of a meeting between the Championship's top two, separated by just a single point, awaits at Craven Cottage on Friday night. Both Fulham and Bournemouth were threatening to build a sizeable advantage over the chasing pack until a couple of setbacks over the past week or so, but you would be hard pressed to find a bookmaker who wasn't packing the pair to both be automatically promoted come May. The return of Scott Parker to SW6 offers this clash an extra edge – and should generate plenty of column inches in the morning papers – however much sides seek to downplay the significance of his presence in the visiting dugout.

Parker's departure after an underwhelming return to the top flight wasn't without rancour. The Fulham board were disappointed in the lacklustre way the club went down, especially after giving themselves a fighting chance of survival with back-to-back wins on Merseyside. The suspicion remains that Parker, an astute manager of his own media profile, was engineering his exit having isolated a number of key players and his plan to offload the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Tom Cairney as part of a radical reshaping of the playing squad ahead of another tilt at the Championship now looks laughable. Fulham might well consider themselves fortunate to have dodged that particular bullet – as well as Parker's particularly sterile football.

Contrary to Parker's rather curious assertion yesterday that little has changed at Craven Cottage after he decamped to the south coast, Marco Silva has introduced a much more adventurous style of play, reinvigorated Mitrovic and successfully reintegrated Jean Michael Seri. Fulham's approach is now designed around attacking the opposition and giving creative players the platform to shine – rather than simply seeking to stay in matches. It is, of course, much easier to play this way in the Championship than in the pressure-cooker of the Premier League but few could argue that Parker's Fulham sides stretched pragmatism to the extreme. Other than the mullering of Millwall at Craven Cottage, there were few flowing performances under his stewardship and the Whites underwhelmed when expected to be one of the leading contenders for automatic promotion in 2019/20.

That is not to say that Parker has not put together a strong Bournemouth side. They are well drilled, look after the ball impressively and difficult to beat. Marrying Lloyd Kelly's promise with the experience of Gary Cahill makes for a miserly central defensive partnership and in, Phillip Billing, the Cherries have one of the division's most complete midfielders. Jaidon Anthony's emergence as a lively winger, who weighs in with crucial goals, has been one of the stories of the season alongside the goalscoring exploits of Dominic Solanke and the canny acquisition of the dangerous Ryan Christie. Make no mistake about it – Bournemouth will represent the toughest test of Fulham's season to date.

Parker will have to navigate his way around a significant injury crisis as he prepares for this fixture. Bournemouth might be without as many as nine first-team players for the trip to the capital. Kelly, Cahill, Adam Smith, Robbie Brady, Jordan Zemura, Ben Pearson, Junior Stanislas and David Brooks all missed Saturday's dramatic draw with Coventry City, in which Jefferson Lerma was sent off meaning the midfielder – who had lined in central defence – will be suspended tomorrow night. Parker cast doubt over whether any of his injured eight would be available tomorrow night, although there may be a degree of smoke and mirrors in operation when recalling how tightly he keeps his cards close to his chest.

Fulham's own selection will once again be dictated by how well key members of the squad have recovered from the norovirus bug that badly disrupted Silva's preparations for the draws against Derby and Preston. The Fulham head coach did suggest earlier today that Cairney will be available, having missed those two fixtures, although whether the playmaker will come straight back into the starting line-up remains to be seen. You'd feel that Fulham will need Harrison Reed's tenacity from the outset in what is likely to be a high octane clash and it would be strange to drop Seri given both his form and the opportunity to prove a point to his former boss. That motivation will be uppermost in Mitrovic's mind too – given how he and Parker clearly didn't see eye-to-eye in the last twelve months.

Fulham have passed most of the tests put in front of Silva's side this season. They easily dispatched West Brom at the end of October, sparking the Baggies poor run of form, and will need to perform at a similar level if they are not to surrender top spot. Parker will undoubtedly get a hot reception from a hostile home crowd, but the Whites can't afford to take their eye off the ball. Retaining focus, possession and putting an impressive Bournemouth defence under pressure from the first whistle will be essential.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Rodak; Tete, A. Robinson, Adarabioyo, Ream; Reed, Seri; Kebano, Wilson, Carvalho; Mitrovic. Subs: Gazzaniga, Odoi, Hector, Cairney, Onomah, Decordova-Reid, Muniz.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/12/up-next-afc-bournemouth-h/

Seri: 'I want to pay Fulham back'

Jean-Michael Seri wants to repay Fulham for the faith they showed in him by leading the Whites back to the Premier League – and he hopes to prove a point to former manager Scott Parker tomorrow night.

Marco Silva's side face Bournemouth in a clash of the Championship's top two at Craven Cottage and the Ivorian playmaker is keen to display his talent after Parker denied him the opportunity of a second chance in a Fulham shirt. Seri was frustrated to be left out of Fulham's 25-man Premier League squad after returning from loan last season, but is making up for lost time under new boss Marco Silva.

The former Nice midfielder told the Sun that it took a while for him to adjust to English football and that he was bitterly disappointed with his performances in his first season in London:

"I felt a lot of expectation when I joined. The Fulham fans had heard about me almost joining Barcelona so thought I would help them stay in the Premier League. Unfortunately things didn't go as we all wanted. The club spent a lot of money for me and expected better from me. I didn't give back something.. I must give the club something back for that investment so I'm glad to be doing so now.

When you first come to England, it can be difficult. We can see this with a lot of players who come from different countries because it's very different here to other leagues. What I learned, reflecting on that season, is that you must have a winning mentality every day, not just on matchdays. If you have a game on Saturday, you can't start preparing on Thursday. You must be preparing from Monday to the matchday."

He also detailed his disappointment at being left out of Parker's Premier League plans when he felt he would be able to contribute to Fulham's fight to establish themselves in the top flight.

"I had a positive season in Turkey so it was frustrating to not play. I was thinking, 'Why does the manager not realise that I can help the team?' because I was in very good form and very confident. I had learned from my past experience in the Premier League. If he gave me one chance, I could've helped the team. It was a big frustration and not what I expected when I returned.

"I spoke to Scott Parker before we started the season and that conversation must remain private. But he decided what he had to decide and it was a difficult situation for me."

Seri is relishing the opportunity to express himself under Silva after swiftly establishing himself as a key part of Fulham's midfield.

"When the gaffer arrived, he said, 'I want you to help us go up together into the Premier League.' I knew Marco from when he was in Portugal and I thought, 'Why not?' I wanted to stay here and my family like London too. The Championship is actually better than a lot of the leagues in Europe.

"I'm here for the whole season. I want to celebrate when we get promoted. I want to enjoy this moment with the club. Fulham deserves it because they've spent a lot of money on me. They deserve to be in the Premier League for many years and I believe Marco is building something good. And I want to pay the club back."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/12/seri-i-want-to-pay-fulham-back/

Scott Parker has 'been booed enough' to deal with any stick at Fulham

CHERRIES boss Scott Parker insisted he had "been booed enough" to deal with any stick he could encounter on his return to Fulham.

The former England midfielder is set to return to his previous stomping ground when the Dorset club visit Craven Cottage in a crunch top-of-the-table Championship showdown tomorrow (7.45pm).

As well as making 128 appearances for the club as a player, Parker managed Fulham for 105 matches.

He initially took over from Claudio Ranieri on a caretaker basis in February 2019, before eventually being awarded the role full-time.

Parker took the west London side back to the top flight via the play-offs during the 2019-20 campaign – before suffering relegation with them last season.

He joined Cherries in June of this year, after leaving Fulham by mutual consent.

Asked what reception he was expecting to receive on his return to Craven Cottage, the former England international replied: "I'm not sure. I don't know.

"We all understand what football is like. Sometimes it's very indifferent, so I don't know what sort of reaction I will get.

"I'd like to think that whether the reaction is not there, deep down the Fulham fans knew or understood the work we did.

"We took over that football club when it was fractured really. They had been relegated but there was deeper wounds in that place which needed sorting out.

"We managed to do that, we managed to get promoted and while last year didn't go the way we would have liked, I would like to think that every Fulham fan would understand we left that football club in a good place.

"I'd like to think they appreciate that but if not, it's not a big deal. It is what it is.

"The most important thing is I am now here (at Cherries) and we go there and put a performance in."

Asked whether he would be able to deal with any flak which came his way from the home fans, the 41-year-old said: "I've played enough, been booed enough.

"I live in this current world we live in where it's sometimes very fickle.

"That's the world we live in when it comes to football, I understand that. I'm not bothered one bit really."

Joined in Dorset by assistant Matt Wells and the rest of his backroom staff, the management's main aim this season is to pilot Cherries back to the Premier League.

The Dorset club are currently one point behind Fulham at the top of the standings – seven ahead of third-placed Queen's Park Rangers after 20 games.

"I think we are going in the right direction," said Parker.

"We've had an incredible start to the season, lost only two games, which is a fantastic start.

"Have we had a little bit of a blip the past three or four games? Yes. That's there to see.

"But I think at that present moment in time we are right on track to have a very strong season.

"A season where we can all see that there is an opportunity for us, if we can maintain and keep performances where they are, we have a good opportunity of trying to get promoted.

"I see Fulham, very, very similar. They are a good side, a top side.

"They are a year ahead in the sense of finances, kept their team from last year and in fact signed new contracts – and have used that, which they deserve to because they have only just come out of the Premier League.

"That's exactly what it is, two very good sides along with the others. West Brom, QPR, there's some very strong sides in this division."

Asked simply whether Cherries could beat Fulham, Parker said: "Yeah, definitely. We can beat them, they can beat us.

"They have the quality to hurt us if we're not at our finest or we are not at our best and vice-versa, they will be thinking exactly the same.

"We have the qualities in our team to hurt them.

"If both teams are at it and both teams are at their best it's going to be a great game and a great spectacle which, at any moment, fine margins will probably decide the game."



https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/19758615.scott-parker-been-booed-enough-deal-stick-fulham/

The Fulham Stadium Renovation

(https://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/resources/images/13263018.png?display=1&htype=0&type=responsive-gallery)
The Fulham Stadium Renovation Evie Jouning Putney High School

During its course, the Fulham football team, originally known as the 'Church team', have been herded around most of South West London. They started in the location which is now the widely known as the 'Hurlingham Club' and during the coming years called Barn Elms, Parsons Green, Eel Brook common and Captain James Field their home. Finally in 1894, the club, looking for a more permanent fixture, purchased craven cottage, which is where they are found today. The site originally boasted of a derelict house which was soon cleared to welcome a wooden stand that could accommodate around 1,2000 spectators. Although, this quick build soon challenged some health and safety rules and was torn down. In response to this upheaval the Stevenage road stand was built in 1905 costing around £15,000 and could hold over 45,000 fans. A second, more expensive, stand was pridefully opened in 1972 and due to Fulham's promotion to the premier league, it was granted some redevelopment to honour the League's certain requirements.

As a less active football fan, the most recognisable features of the stadium are the two statues that glow with importance outside of the gates. They are of Johnny Haynes who is coined as 'Fulham's greatest ever footballer' and George Cohen MBE who lead to Fulham to victory in the 1966 England World Cup.

            More recently, this landmark of Fulham has gone under some dramatic transformations. On the 22nd of May 201 it was announced by the chairman of Fulham (Sahid Khan) that an agreement had been signed for the destruction and renovation of the Riverside stand. This redevelopment would lead to an increase in capacity from 4,689 to 8,650 and allow for the creation of a public riverside path and the introduction of new hospitality locations, such as cafes and restaurants. This magnificent infrastructure was designed by the architect Populous who wished to not only create an unbroken walkway along the river, but also a more modern and innovative stadium for its fans. He utilised Fulham's beautiful surroundings to his advantage when designing the stand, showing off the picturesque view of the Thames. Although it's required scaffolding is seen by some locals as an eye sore, I think the final result will be immensely rewarding. Even though I don't take an avid interest in Football, much to my Dad's side of the family's disgust, having been to a few games, the atmosphere is unbeatable. Especially after Covid-19, football is a way to unite people from all across England and is an outlet from their stressful days. It can also give structure to many and help form bonds between different generations.

            From being called  'The Rabbit Hutch' to 'Craven's Cottage' , this stadium has encaptured fans for decades and for many is a place that holds many happy memories and is perhaps even somewhere that sparks hope as they can look on with pride at something they are a part of, something they belong to.



https://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/news/19759018.fulham-stadium-renovation/

Seri starts: The predicted Fulham XI to face Bournemouth tonight

Arguably the biggest game of the Sky Bet Championship season so far takes place this evening at Craven Cottage as Fulham welcome title rivals Bournemouth to SW6.

The two sides have been a cut above the rest of the division so far and, as things stand, are in their own private battle for the Championship trophy, with both currently looking good to win promotion at least.

For Fulham, home advantage could well be key and Marco Silva has a rather healthy squad to pick his side from tonight.

Tom Cairney is back available after illness ruled him out for the last two games, but could have to remain on the bench with Harrison Reed and Jean Michael Seri starting in front of him.

Elsewhere, it's a side that could remain pretty similar to the one we saw at Preston North End, with Silva needing to just decide which personnel he thinks are up to tonight's task.

This is the XI we could see featuring, though the likes of Bobby Decordova-Reid, in particular, could be pushing to come into the side:


It's a big game for both sides tonight, and whichever set of players steps up to the mark could take a big stride towards their promotion goal at the end of this campaign.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/seri-starts-the-predicted-fulham-xi-to-face-bournemouth-tonight/

Billing starts: The predicted Bournemouth XI to face Fulham tonight

Scott Parker takes his Bournemouth side to one of his former employers tonight in the Sky Bet Championship, as Fulham and the Cherries go head-to-head in an intriguing encounter at Craven Cottage.

The pair have been the pick of the bunch so far this season in the second tier and any victor this evening could be taking a really big step towards promotion.

For Parker, there's obviously added incentive to win the game as it's away from home against a former side but he won't be letting emotion get the better of him, with the same three points at stake as any other league game.

He has some selection headaches to deal with, too, after suggesting that Gary Cahill, Lloyd Kelly, Jordan Zemura, Ben Pearson, Junior Stanislas, Robbie Brady and Adam Smith could all be missing thanks to various injury problems.

Jefferson Lerma is out, too, after picking up a red card last time out in the draw with Coventry.

Even so, a pretty strong Cherries side can still be named and they'll be looking to get back to winning ways at the perfect time tonight in SW6:


This is a really exciting encounter on paper, and under the lights at Craven Cottage we should be in for a cracker.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/billing-starts-the-predicted-bournemouth-xi-to-face-fulham-tonight/

Scott Parker's return highlights how clean break worked wonders for Fulham and Bournemouth

The top two sides in the Championship are poised to meet on Friday night at Craven Cottage in a game that looks sure to offer plenty of drama - on and off the pitch

It has all the potential to be an instant second tier classic.

Friday night's meeting between Fulham and Bournemouth has plotlines and match-ups aplenty and has all the ingredients of a Championship dust-up to remember.

It's not only first against second but it is arguably the two strongest squads in the division going head-to-head.

For a start, two of the Championship's top three goalscorers will be on display with Aleksandar Mitrovic and Dominic Solanke having netted 36 times between them so far.

The gap between the two teams might only be a solitary point, in favour of Fulham, but there is clear distance emerging between the pair and the rest of the division.

Bournemouth are seven ahead of the team in third - QPR.

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article25593005.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/1_GettyImages-1348732555.jpg)
Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic is the top scorer in the Championship and will pose a huge threat to Scott Parker's Bournemouth on Friday

Add in the fact that these two are the heaviest scorers in the division with a combined 85 goals and have the joint-meanest defences, along with West Brom (just 16 shipped each) and you can understand why many are seeing this as a dress rehearsal to see who is more likely to be lifting the Championship title come May.

And all that is before we've even mentioned the fascinating sub-plot in the dugout. This game will be the first time that Cherries' boss Scott Parker has faced his old club since his shock departure in the summer.

Many questioned the decision at the time but Parker has more than justified the switch. And it's not gone too bad for his old club either.

Speaking about his decision during his Cherries' unveiling in July, Parker said: "I had a fantastic time at Fulham, I'm very, very proud to lead the club, I have nothing but admiration.

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Scott Parker led Fulham to promotion in 2020 but was unable to keep them in the Premier League last season

"What I can say is every single day I went into that football club as a player or as a coach, I literally gave every bit of me to the club to try and be successful.

"I'd like to think I did that really. I know I leave the football club in a good place.

"I understand that people may point the finger and say 'you got relegated last year', but, like I keep saying, there's something bigger and there's something deeper than just winning a league or a relegation really."

Bournemouth are in their second season in the Championship whilst for Fulham the pain of relegation is more raw.

They turned to Marco Silva as Parker's replacement and despite having plenty of experience of English football with Hull City, Watford and Everton the Portuguese was a novice when it came to the second tier.

But he has quickly found his footing. Of course, it helps having an expensively-assembled squad and a human cheat code in Mitrovic to boot, but it still requires canny management and a stamina over the course of a long season.

As for Parker, his side were the last in the EFL to taste defeat and he admits they have dropped beneath the exceptionally high standards they set in the first third of the season - they've taken just five points from the past five games.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/scott-parker-fulham-return-wonders-25592902

Media View: Expert insight on Fulham

AFC Bournemouth will be hoping to add another entry to their list of Craven Cottage memoirs when they lock horns with Championship leaders Fulham on Friday (7.45pm kick-off).

Cherries supporters have fond memories of the London venue, including sealing promotion in 1986/87, winning 5-1 on their way to lifting the Championship title in 2014/15 and triumphing 3-0 in one of their best displays in the Premier League in 2018/19.

Head coach Scott Parker and his backroom staff return to their former club with the Cherries currently one place and one point behind Marco Silva's Cottagers.

The clash pits the best home record in the Championship against the best away record with Fulham having dropped just seven points at Craven Cottage and the Cherries defeated only once on their travels.

And while Fulham boast 21-goal Aleksandar Mitrovic in their ranks, Dominic Solanke's tally of 16 for the season includes 15 in the league, the pair separated in first and third place by Blackburn's Ben Brereton in the top scorers' chart.

Ahead of the showdown, afcb.co.uk caught up with Peter Rutzler who follows the fortunes of Fulham for The Athletic having previously been their Cherries reporter.

FULHAM PROFILE

Ground: Craven Cottage

Nickname: The Cottagers

Head coach: Marco Silva (appointed July 2021)

Club captain: Tom Cairney

Current league position: First

Leading goalscorer 2021/22: Aleksandar Mitrovic (21 in the Championship)

Last game: Preston North End 1-1 Fulham (Championship)

afcb.co.uk: How would you sum up the season so far for Fulham?

PR: It's been a strong season. The expectation after relegation was pretty clear from the hierarchy. They wanted to get straight back into the Premier League.

Marco Silva has come in and hit the ground running, not just in terms of results but also style of play. They have been exciting to watch and have scored a lot of goals. They have really showcased the quality they have in their squad.

They are where they want to be at this point and the cushion to the play-offs is very strong. I don't think it could have gone any better, other than the odd defeat or two.

In general, it's been a really good start to the season.

afcb.co.uk: Has Marco Silva made any significant changes?

PR: Yes, he has. The clearest change has been in terms of style of play. It was difficult in the Premier League last season because they were a team trying to cling on amid so many different circumstances.

This season, Silva has brought some new ideas and he has a very clearly defined attacking philosophy which he sticks to. He plays a 4-3-3, playing on the front foot and is getting the best out of the players. The atmosphere at the club is very positive.

afcb.co.uk: What sort of reception do you think Scott Parker and his backroom staff will get?

PR: The summer changes didn't go down particularly well at Fulham and it might be a little lukewarm. But they deserve a warm reception because of the work they did. When you think back to when Scott took over as caretaker in the Premier League, there was quite a negative atmosphere at the club.

They had gone through two different managers, they were relegated with a whimper and he was able to fundamentally change the atmosphere to get the club pointing in the right direction and got them promoted in very difficult circumstances with the pandemic.

They gave a good fight in the Premier League and were close to staying up. He spent time at the club as a player and a coach so he has strong connections with Fulham. There are so many positive stories about his time.

When you think back to some difficult years, particularly under Felix Magath when Scott was captain and he really held some of those young players together.

He was an important player over a relatively difficult past decade so you would like to think he will get a positive reception even if his departure didn't go down too well.

afcb.co.uk: How do teams stop Aleksandar Mitrovic scoring?

PR: It's very difficult!

He's in extraordinary form really, form I don't think anyone has seen from him before and most people probably didn't expect from him.

Two years ago under Scott Parker, you could see that if he had a chance in front of goal, he would take it. This season, he has been relentless.

Every whiff of an opportunity he is sticking away, his all-round game seems to have improved, not just in terms of scoring with his head and both feet but also his link play and that makes him very difficult to marshal.

The problem with just focussing on Mitrovic is that Fulham have other threats as well. Harry Wilson has been a really strong addition on the right-hand side and is a goalscorer at this level.

On the left, Neeskens Kebano is in some of his best form since he signed five years ago.

If you can take out Mitrovic, you've got other threats to follow. But very few teams have been able to put the chains on him this season. He is proving a real handful and with Fulham creating a lot of chances, he's thriving on that.

afcb.co.uk: Apart from Mitrovic, who is Fulham's one to watch?

PR: Jean Michael Seri.

When Fulham are at their best, it's with Seri in possession at the heart of the midfield.

He's a brilliant playmaker who can spray the ball left, right, 50 yards or five yards – he doesn't miss his mark. Fulham's best attacking play normally starts with him or features him.

He is their midfield metronome, he makes things work and, as much as Bournemouth will need to watch the threat from the frontline, Seri is the one that you would probably want to stop to really break up the Fulham attack.

afcb.co.uk: Give us a word on Harry Wilson?

PR: He's done really well since he came in. He scored on his debut against Middlesbrough and has adapted quickly to what Marco Silva wants from him.

He is clearly proven at Championship level and seems to think a couple of seconds before everyone else. That has given him an edge.

Playing in this set-up has suited him quite a bit and Bournemouth will know all about him.

I think it's been an important move to come from Liverpool on a permanent basis to step out of that connection and now show he can not only do it in the Championship but in the Premier League.

I think that applies to a lot of players in this Fulham team.

afcb.co.uk: Are any key players either suspended or injured against the Cherries?

PR: There was an illness which affected both games last week. Mitrovic missed one game and club captain Tom Cairney missed both.

Nathaniel Chalobah and Ivan Cavaleiro are both on the sidelines and are close to a return but I don't know if they will be ready for Bournemouth.

afcb.co.uk: What's your score prediction?

PR: I think it's going to be a really interesting game because Bournemouth have been so solid and very good at controlling matches and playing with a high intensity.

Fulham tend to up their game in those moments and can match that too. They have the potential to score a lot of goals.

But they have hit a rocky patch and so have Bournemouth. I think home advantage will see them through and Fulham will win 2-1 but it could easily be the other way around.

You can follow Peter on Twitter – @peterrutzler

Officials: Tim Robinson (referee), Rob Smith (assistant), Andrew Fox (assistant), Joshua Smith (fourth official).



https://www.afcb.co.uk/news/first-team/media-view-expert-insight-on-fulham-1-1/

'With all possible respect to Fulham' – Feeling Cottagers' star can be signed, calls made, optimism building

A week ago we covered claims from Italy that Juventus are considering signing Aleksandar Mitrovic in the January window.

At the time, we made clear that despite something of an arrogance in the way the story was being approached in Italy, it was likely that as soon as the Turin club came up against Fulham's stance over the transfer things would change.

Now Tuttosport, a Turin newspaper, are going for it again.

They say Juventus are 'hot' for the Fulham player and he's seen as an alternative to fellow Serbian Dusan Vlahovic. According to Tuttosport, 'with all possible respect to Fulham', Mitrovic's current club isn't 'enough' for the striker.

Fiorentina, who own Vlahovic, are also presented as keen, given they could lose their own star striker.

From Juve there's been 'expressions of interest' and telephone calls with intermediaries on the London side of a possible deal. Yet again, there's no mention of what Fulham would be looking for to agree to a transfer, and no attempt to even see things from the perspective of the English club.

Currently top of the Championship and well placed for a return to the Premier League, endangering that really isn't worth it for Fulham.

So, with all possible respect to Juventus and the Italian media, this one still looks unlikely.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/possible-respect-fulham-feeling-cottagers-star-can-signed-calls-made-optimism-building/

Player transfer update has given Fulham a massive boost: Opinion

Fulham have already taken to life under Marco Silva well this season and already appear to be well on their way to achieving an instant return to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Although the likes of Aleksander Mitrovic, Fabio Carvalho and Harry Wilson may have taken the majority of the headlines this term, there is certainly one name who goes under the radar as an unsung hero of the side.

The man that this article is referring to is one Jean Michael Seri, with the Ivorian having slowly won over the Craven Cottage faithful with his performances this season.

Of course things could've been so different for the 30-year-old, who once appeared close to joining Barcelona from his then club Nice.

Nevertheless it was West London that he ended up moving to rather than Catalonia in the summer of 2018, with expectations over his signing being understandably high due to the interest that Barca had in his services.

However things couldn't have gone much worse for Seri in his first campaign in a white shirt as Fulham were relegated from the Premier League after a disastrous season in which the midfielder was portrayed as one of many scapegoats within the squad.

This inevitably led to tension between the player and the club and as a result of this he ended up heading out on loan on two occasions to both Galatasaray and Bordeaux as it appeared that his career with the Whites was coming to an end.

Returning to Craven Cottage during the summer just gone after his brief spell back in France, Seri was immediately integrated back into the first team by Silva who quickly bonded with the midfielder over the fact that they had both worked in Portugal previously.

In fact the relationship between the two men is so strong that Seri recently told The Sun that Silva is the man that has convinced him to remain at Craven Cottage for the whole of this season as opposed to pursuing a move away.

This will come as a huge boost to the club's promotion hopes, with the midfielder having already racked up an impressive six assists in his opening 19 league games, all whilst playing in a deeper, playmaking role.

His contract may well be up at the end of the campaign, however Fulham can sit safe in the knowledge that they have a one year option to extend the 30-year-old's deal by a further 12 months should they wish to activate it.

Which means that Seri could well be turning out for the Whites once again in the top flight next season if they achieve their prime objective of promotion this term, with the Ivorian sure to keep things ticking over in the centre of the park as we move into the new year, playing the role of the unsung hero to great effect.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/player-transfer-update-has-given-fulham-a-massive-boost-opinion/

Scott Parker coy and a change in shape (again) - predicted Bournemouth lineup to take on Fulham

Will any of the seven players currently injured be fit to feature in the matchday squad in the table toppers clash this evening?

Following last week's spectacularly bad/outrageous prediction, things don't look to get any better this time, either.

Not only did we get the change of shape wrong, but also who was fit and who wasn't. While we can blame the lack of Scott Parker press conference prior to the Coventry match as an indicator, getting the expected lineup so drastically wrong certainly does not bode well.

With the injury picture still rather opaque and the feeling that Parker isn't giving too much away, there are so many questions and yet so few guarantees in the starting XI.

But, let us put on our blindfold and take a stab in the dark - here's how DorsetLive thinks Bournemouth will line up for this evening's game with Fulham.

Goalkeeper - Mark Travers
The player we can exhale a deep breath on and point to him as a certified starter. Has endured a bumpy time of late but importantly, doesn't look shorn of confidence.

Defence - Jack Stacey, Steve Cook, Lloyd Kelly, Chris Mepham
Do not worry, I can see you all shaking your heads already. For some reason, there is a visceral thought within that Kelly, who was seen with shorts on by the Kings Park Training base before the Coventry draw, is fit enough to be back for the match. Even if he is half fit, such is his significance to the team, he should play. Jack Stacey is a certainty, as is Chris Mepham.

Where Mepham plays, however, is a bone of contention. Leif Davis was extremely poor in his substitute cameo last time out and there is a clear weakness defensively on his side. While he wouldn't be extravagant in his attacking output, Mepham offers greater cover and could turn Parker's shape into a back three/five at times.

Midfield - Lewis Cook, Gavin Kilkenny, Philip Billing
This would be the perfect match for Ben Pearson to walk into. But there continues to be a recurring struggle with one particular area which needs to be managed. Jefferson Lerma's absence is huge blow, but adding two midfield shuttlers in Cook and Kilkenny will provide extra screening to the back four and move Billing, basically, into the number 10 role.

Kilkenny and Cook will be crucial in scurrying around the pitch, disrupting Fulham's midfield and provoking regular turnovers in play.

Attack - Ryan Christie, Dominic Solanke, Jaidon Anthony
Unless Parker opts for three at the back again and in that case, this predicted lineup can be classed as totally null and void, this is the widely assumed first choice front three. Christie may move centrally but Bournemouth really need to establish at least one partnership on the flanks and getting Jaidon Anthony into higher positions will be key in them posing Fulham a threat upon transitions.

Jamal Lowe and Morgan Rogers are adept replacements should Parker want to tweak the system during the game.

Bournemouth (4-3-3/4-2-3-1): Travers; Stacey, Cook, Kelly, Mepham; Cook, Kilkenny, Billing; Christie, Solanke, Anthony



https://www.dorset.live/sport/football/football-news/scott-parker-coy-change-shape-6292497

Wilson: Friendships On Hold


Harry Wilson is looking forward to testing himself against a side whose strengths he is well aware of from personal experience.

The winger was given a first taste of Premier League football on loan with AFC Bournemouth in 2019/20, scoring seven times during his time on the south coast.

"There's still a lot of the staff and a lot of the players are still the same," Wilson stated. "I know the manager's changed and there's a few new faces, but I think the core of that squad are players that I played there with.

"So I know the quality of them, and a lot of the boys here who played under Scott Parker know what he's like as well, so there's two teams who are going to know a lot about each other, and come Friday night it's up to us to make sure we're the better team.

"When you play against a Bournemouth team, especially in the Championship, you know what a good and strong outfit they're going to be, and they've shown that this season.

"And for me to play against a few of my friends and people I've shared the pitch with is going to be good."

One such individual is centre-back Chris Mepham, Wilson's international teammate who he considers to be one of his closest friends.

"I class Meps as one of my best mates so it's going to be good to play against him," Harry said. "As soon as that whistle goes, obviously we won't be friends, but before the game I'm sure we'll have a little catch up and take the mick out of each other, and then afterwards it will be the same.

"But for that 90 or 95 minutes, our friendship will be put to one side because I'll be doing all I can to win the game for Fulham."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/december/03/wilson-friendships-on-hold/

Sources: Norwich, Fulham and Bournemouth set sights on Derby County star Roos

Norwich City, Fulham and Bournemouth are keeping close tabs on Derby County goalkeeper Kelle Roos, Football Insider can exclusively reveal.

The 29-year-old is out of contract at cash-strapped Derby next summer and clubs are monitoring his situation as they eye a January bargain.

A recruitment source has now told Football Insider that Norwich, Fulham and Bournemouth are all weighing up potential bids for the Dutchman.

He has been a shining light for Derby throughout their difficulties this season, keeping five clean sheets and conceding only 17 goals in 16 Championship games so far this season.

His performances between the sticks have caught the eye of both Premier League and Championship scouts.

Suitors will be hoping to take advantage of both his contract situation and Derby's financial plight in January.

The former PSV Eindhoven youngster has spent most of his career in England, having joined Nuneaton back in November 2013.

He was quickly picked up by Derby County in January 2014 and spent most of his formative years out on loan.

The keeper spent time at Rotherham, AFC Wimbledon, Port Vale and Plymouth up until December 2017.

Since then Roos has battled it out for a first-team spot at Derby, with 87 appearances to his name so far.

With over 70 games of Championship experience under his belt, the Rams' rivals are circling in a bid to strike a cut-price deal for the shot-stopper.

High-flyers Fulham and Bournemouth are both keen to add Roos to their ranks as they both push for automatic promotion this season.

Meanwhile Premier League strugglers Norwich want the keeper as competition for Tim Krul, Angus Gunn and Michael McGovern.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-norwich-fulham-and-bournemouth-set-sights-on-derby-county-star-roos/

Cook keen to kickstart more Craven Cottage memories
Craven Cottage has always been a happy hunting ground for AFC Bournemouth, with eight goals scored in the last two visits and a first promotion to the second division secured on the banks of the Thames in 1987.

For Steve Cook, Friday nights in south west London are even more poignant as he looks set to make his second Championship start of the season this evening, after featuring in the weekend's 2-2 draw with Coventry City.

Live on Sky, they don't get too much bigger than tonight's trip to Fulham, which will see the Championship's top two go head-to-head vying to be top of the tree at the end of gameweek 21.

Speaking of the memories that come with a trip to Craven Cottage, Cook began by discussing the events last time out.

A 3-0 win away from home saw a David Brooks strike sandwiched between two Callum Wilson goals, sealing an all-important three points in the Premier League.

"It was a really good day out," he began.

"Playing Fulham is always one that you look forward to – Craven Cottage is obviously very historical and in the past we've had some really nice results there too.

"That day was one of them in a season that we started the league really well. It was quite a convincing away win as well which was nice. I remember walking off and seeing Aaron Ramsdale in with the away fans!

"It epitomised what we were back then, so it was a really enjoyable game and hopefully we can replicate that this time."

Despite that win taking the Cherries onto 20 points after just ten top flight games, there's another outing to south west London which lives long in the memory of the defender.

A 5-1 victory in March 2015 not only took the side a step closer to their first Premier League promotion, a drilled effort from Cook on the edge of the area with 83 minutes gone made headlines alone.

He recalls: "Being in a comfortable lead at the time, I just thought I would hit it. It could've ended up in the Thames!

"Luckily for me it ended up right in the top corner and it was a special goal for myself, one that's right up there in those that I've scored for the club.

"Again, what a win that was. It was a result that helped us get promoted to the Premier League.

"Hopefully this Friday will bring us success and if we do go there and win it, it will lead us into a really nice period and it can take us top.

"I'd love another 5-1 win but we'll definitely take a scrappy 1-0. It should be a great game, a really good atmosphere and one that we're looking forward to."

The Cherries go into the game a point behind Fulham in the Championship standings and seven clear of QPR in third.

Despite no win since the 4-0 victory against Swansea City at the start of November, Scott Parker's side find themselves in a healthy position and Cook believes the game can kickstart another good run of form. 

"I think the game has come at a very good time for us, we haven't won in three and have had a couple of mixed results.

"Hopefully now we can go back on a little run and lay down a bit of a statement going into the Christmas period.

"After the game last weekend, I think the lads were quite down but this is football. You're going to have times like this and it's never plain sailing in the Championship – it's so up and down.

"We've had such an incredible start, this is just a little bump in the road but it's no problem and we'll hopefully respond on Friday with a good result."

The 30-year-old will likely be up against a familiar opponent in Aleksandar Mitrovic, who has 21 goals to his name already this season.

But it could well be a battle of the strikers at Craven Cottage this evening, with his counterpart in Dom Solanke on an impressive 16 himself.

"I've played against Mitrovic a couple of times over the years.

"Ultimately though, if there's any comparisons on the night, we're hoping that Dom has a bigger say than him.

"No doubt it's going to be a tough game, they've got some really good players all across their team but we're looking to impose our way of playing and the way the manager wants us to play.

"I'm sure the home and away fixture with Fulham would've been ones the manager and his staff looked out for straight away.

"The players want to get the win for them, even if we don't quite know the emotions they'll be feeling.

"Ultimately, it's a game of football and we want to win either way but there's going to be a little bit of an edge to it. We'll be doing what we can to get the result for the staff."

It's not just the manager that Cook wants to do proud, with the Cherries set to be backed by a packed out away end of over 1,600 supporters this evening.

"The away fans are always terrific and they always travel in numbers," he concluded.

"Hopefully it can be a great weekend for them. Friday night under the lights in London, it doesn't get too much better.

"I'm sure they'll bring their loud voices with them and hopefully we can give them a result to go with it."



https://www.afcb.co.uk/news/features/cook-keen-to-kickstart-more-craven-cottage-memories/

Wilson looking forward to Bournemouth test

Fulham winger Harry Wilson can't wait to test himself against familiar opposition when the Whites take on Bournemouth in the top-of-the-table clash at Craven Cottage this evening.

The Welsh international, who has a superb start to life in SW6 since signing from Liverpool this summer, spent a season on loan at Bournemouth in 2019/20 and knows that they will be difficult opponents. He told Fulham's official website:

"There's still a lot of the staff and a lot of the players are still the same. I know the manager's changed and there's a few new faces, but I think the core of that squad are players that I played there with. So I know the quality of them, and a lot of the boys here who played under Scott Parker know what he's like as well, so there's two teams who are going to know a lot about each other, and come Friday night it's up to us to make sure we're the better team.

When you play against a Bournemouth team, especially in the Championship, you know what a good and strong outfit they're going to be, and they've shown that this season. And for me to play against a few of my friends and people I've shared the pitch with is going to be good."

Wilson warns that any friendships, such as his particularly close bond with Bournemouth and Welsh centre back Chris Mepham, will be on hold tonight.

"I class Meps as one of my best mates so it's going to be good to play against him. As soon as that whistle goes, obviously we won't be friends, but before the game I'm sure we'll have a little catch up and take the mick out of each other, and then afterwards it will be the same. But for that 90 or 95 minutes, our friendship will be put to one side because I'll be doing all I can to win the game for Fulham.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/12/wilson-looking-forward-to-bournemouth-test/

Fulham linked with Roos raid

Fulham are one of several clubs interested in signing Derby County goalkeeper Kelle Roos, according to reports this morning.

The Football Insider suggests that the Whites, Norwich City and Bournemouth are all considering making a move for the Dutch goalkeeper in January to capitalise on the Rams' financial difficulties. The 29 year-old is out of contract at the end of the current season – and, therefore, may be available for a cut-price fee with Derby, who have been hit by two points deductions for financial irregularities this season, in administration.

Roos has been in superb form for Derby during a difficult campaign, with one of his five clean sheets coming in last week's goalless draw at Craven Cottage. Wayne Rooney's men have conceded just seventeen goals in sixteen matches. The former PSV Eindhoven youngster has spent most of his career with Derby and has extensive experience of English football through a number of loan spells. Roos has made 87 appearances for the Rams and is now firmly established as the number one at Pride Park.

Whether Fulham would seriously be tempted to bring in another goalkeeper in January remains to be seen. Spanish goalkeeper Fabri, who has only made two first-team appearances for the club, remains on the books whilst summer signing Paulo Gazzaniga has been relegated to the bench by the brilliant recent form of Slovakian international Marek Rodak.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/12/fulham-linked-with-roos-raid/

Fulham team news and predicted XI to face Bournemouth
Top of the table Fulham welcome 2nd-place Bournemouth in the Championship tonight, in a huge game in the race for promotion.

Marco Silva's Fulham currently sit a point and a place ahead of Scott Parker's Bournemouth, as the former Fulham boss readies his new side for an exciting game at Craven Cottage tonight.

A win for the Cherries would see them reclaim their top spot after a dip in form whilst Fulham could pull four points clear of Bournemouth with a win, and 11 points clear of QPR in 3rd.

Fulham team news

The Athletic's Peter Rutzler revealed yesterday that Ivan Cavaleiro is set to miss out, but that Tom Cairney is expected to be back in the squad.

https://twitter.com/peterrutzler/status/1466401700302843915

Nathaniel Chalobah is back in training but not expected to take part tonight, with Terrence Kongolo (knee) a long-term absentee for the Whites.

Predicted XI
Rodak (GK)

Robinson

Ream

Adarabioyo

Odoi

Reed

Seri

Kebano

Carvalho

Wilson

Mitrovic

Silva has plenty of options in his side and he could well rotate should he choose to. But given the importance of tonight's game it's certainty that he'll field the strongest squad available to him and that would be an unchanged side from the one that drew v Preston last time out.

It was a disappointing result but back at the Cottage, Fulham should have the wind in their sails and the confidence to put on a good show against their former boss.

The game kicks off at 7:45pm and is available to watch on Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Main Event.



https://the72.co.uk/256818/fulham-team-news-and-predicted-xi-to-face-bournemouth/

Bournemouth and Fulham linked with Derby County's Kelle Roos
Bournemouth, Fulham and Norwich City are all 'weighing up bids' for Derby County keeper Kelle Roos, reports Football Insider.

Roos, 29, sees his Derby County contract expire next summer, and the Rams could sanction his sale in January as their financial woes continue.

And Football Insider now report that Norwich City, as well as the Championship's top two sides Bournemouth and Fulham are all considering a January offer for the Dutchman who's featured 16 times in the Championship this season, keeping four clean sheets.

A surprise move?
Roos has had spells of good and bad form for Derby this season and seeing his links to the Championship's top clubs may come as something of a surprise to Rams fans.

He's certainly split opinion this season. Bu Wayne Rooney's side remain of the best in terms of defensive records this season – they've conceded just 17 goals in their 20 league fixtures this season.

And from a Derby perspective, they'll surely take what they can get in January for a player coming into the final months of his contract, and given their uncertain future it seems unlikely that Roos or any of their other players who see their contracts out at the end of this season, will sign an extension.

Bournemouth, Fulham back up?
With both Bournemouth and Fulham looking good for promotion this season, a move for Roos looks as though it would be one to provide back-up – Fulham in particular already have two good first-team goalkeepers in Paolo Gazzaniga and Marek Rodak.

Norwich City meanwhile cold be on their way back down to the Championship and Roos could well be seen as a signing in preparation for that.

Fulham and Bournemouth go head-to-head in the Championship later this evening, whilst Derby travel to Bristol City tomorrow.



https://the72.co.uk/256819/bournemouth-and-fulham-linked-with-derby-countys-kelle-roos/

Away Day Guide – Luton Town

If you were one of the lucky ones to nab a ticket for this fixture, you'll need all the essential information for travel and sustinence for the day. Our away day guide has everything you need to know.

TICKETING INFORMATION

Fulham's allocation of 1,032 tickets for this fixture has sold out.
GETTING TO KENILWORTH ROAD
BY CAR

Exit the M1 at Junction 11 and join the A505 heading towards Luton. Head through one set of traffic lights and turn right at the first roundabout into Chaul End Lane. Take the left turn at the next roundabout into Hatters Way, where the ground will be visible on your left. Residents' parking schemes are in operation on matchdays in close proximity to the ground so it is recommended you park at the Beech Hill Conservative Club (£5 on the day; £6 over the phone) or at Luton Railway Station (£2.80).
BY TRAIN

Luton station is around fifteen minutes walk from Kenilworth Road. Head right out of the station exit and progress along Station Road. Cross at the traffic lights into Mill Street and follow the junction where the road drifts right before turning left into New Bedford Road. Take the right turn into Collingdon Street, where you will come to a dual carriageway. Head left along the pedestrian walkway and take the footbridge on the road across the road. The footbridge will turn split into two as it comes across the roundabout – kept right and you will head into Dunstable Road. Continue straight on take the fifth left turn into Oak Road, where you will find the entrance for away supporters.
BY COACH

The official club coaches will depart Motspur Park and Craven Cottage at 11.30am.
AWAY PUBS

The Beech Hill Conservative Club (18A Leagrave Road, Luton, LU4 8HZ) – mentioned above for the parking – admits home and away supporters on a matchday. There is usually a small entrance charge for non-members, but you won't find cheaper priced beer anywhere else.

The Bricklayers Arms (16-18 High Town Road, Luton, LU2 0DD) is located nearer to Luton railway station. It serves generously priced real-ale and has Sky Sports. Fulham fans should be warned that for some matches this season it has switched to being a home-only venue.

The local Wetherspoons option is The White House (1 Bridge Street, Luton, LU1 1SA), which is a spacious venue built on the site of a nineteenth-century brewery.

The Red Lion Hotel (2 Castle Street, Luton, LU1 3AA) is about a mile from the ground and offers a wide selection of real ale, Sky and BT Sport, a pool table, good food, cocktails and a beer garden. Anyone who pre-books will receive a 10% discount on drinks and any coach drivers are entitled to a free meal and soft/hot drink. To take advantage of this offer, please email: [email protected]



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2021/12/away-day-guide-luton-town/

The Trust response to the fan-led review

It often feels as though time moves fast in football – the demise of Bury in August 2019 and the short-lived Super League of the spring both feel like history now. Since then, Fulham have been relegated (again) and are well placed to push for promotion (again), and the game moves on with the drama and dysfunctional nature of a bid from the biggest clubs to break English football consigned to history. At least, that is how many of those who run football in England want you to think. Move on, nothing to see here – and buy the new limited edition replica fourth shirt while you are passing.

That is what has happened each time there has been a clear demonstration of the structural problems in football, or a scandal rooted in greed and self-interest that goes beyond the pale, expressions of regret, lessons to be learnt – and then relying on it all to be forgotten while the on-pitch drama recaptures attention and focus.

However, this time perhaps might be different. A fan-led review, led by former Sports Minister Tracey Crouch MP, was promised in the wake of Bury and catalysed by the Super League debacle. Over the course of the summer, Tracey and the panel of experts supporting the review took more than 100 hours of evidence. Fulham Supporters' Trust were part of evidence sessions with other Trusts, marshalled by the Football Supporters' Association (FSA), and the Club's Chief Executive was amongst the representatives of clubs who also contributed. The evidence was in confidence, but the interim report published in July and then the final report last week very clearly showed the direction of travel in thinking.

The package of recommendations – a recipe not a menu – are based on the introduction of a licensing regime for clubs in professional football, more robust monitoring and oversight of financial decision making amongst clubs and a greater say for supporters on key issues through a golden share, held by Trusts and other properly constituted supporters' groups.

For English football, this seems radical – and compared to what we currently have, it is. But, at the same time, it is largely very similar to the type of regulation that exists in most UEFA nations, where governing bodies oversee and regulate the game, with Leagues running the competitions and selling their broadcasting and other commercial contracts. The discredited owners and directors tests would be replaced by a more transparent process, run independently of the Leagues, but significantly on an ongoing basis rather than just at a snapshot in time when a takeover is proposed. The oversight would identify problems at an early stage, preventing the slide into a crisis that has afflicted so many clubs over the last twenty years. A structured supporters voice – through a golden share – on issues such as proposals to move grounds, change names or first team colours – are about protecting the integrity of the character of clubs in a similar way to the 50+1 approach in Germany.

It is not surprising that while clubs – particularly in Leagues One and Two; the EFL Chairman; those who have previously been chairs of the FA and struggled with the way in which the supposed governing body is dominated by the Premier League; academics, journalists and pundits; and supporters' groups have welcomed the review's findings, and the government have committed to legislating to put the regulator into effect.

It is equally unsurprising that some in the Premier League have reacted with fury to the temerity of anybody daring to call out the serial failures that have arisen as a result of a lack of oversight and a counterbalance to the self-interest which club executives will always put first. The irony seems lost on Christian Purslow of Aston Villa and Angus Kinnear at Leeds that their clubs – and in one case they themselves – were arguing for changes proposed by the review in the relatively recent past when they were struggling in the Championship. They have both unwittingly made the case for independent oversight.

But where do Fulham stand on this? It is a good question – which we ask reasonably often – in the regular meetings we have with the Club. The responses are, characteristically, vague and non-committal. As a club currently alternating between Premier League and Championship, the short term interests of Fulham change year to year. Given the owner's frequent statements of support for sustainability in football, perhaps there is some scope for longer-term thinking and an approach that embraces the thrust of what is now likely to be legislated for to protect the pyramid and prevent further attempted breakaways. However, football administrators operate a bit like a cabal and are not typically under-enamoured with their own abilities – so keeping under the radar is perhaps more realistic.

Fulham are better than many clubs on what in the jargon is called structured dialogue with the Supporters' Trust – while this is technically part of the EFL and Premier League rules, several clubs ignore them or self-select their supporters to have an easier time of it. Fulham do meet the Trust regularly, and the agenda for the meeting is largely set by the Trust and our members' interests and concerns, which mostly enables a good, constructive and mature dialogue. But the power in the relationship is with the Club – the meetings happen because they agree to have them – and sometimes it feels like we are viewed as an irritant rather than an opportunity to help those running the club take into account the interests of match-going fans.

    What is proposed by the fan led review would be much more meaningful – with supporters, via a Trust, holding a golden share to protect vital characteristics of the club which are described as heritage issues.

What is proposed by the fan led review would be much more meaningful – with supporters, via a Trust, holding a golden share to protect vital characteristics of the club which are described as heritage issues. Other clubs already have something like this – Brentford, Portsmouth and others – with its origins capable of being traced back to the Chelsea Pitch Owners Association, an innovation from previous generations which has, ultimately, prevented any move away from Stamford Bridge. As Fulham supporters know as well as, if not better than, fans of any club, protecting the ground and avoiding the ownership of the club and stadium being separated is a key part of safeguarding a club.

The concept of a golden share is to provide that sort of protection – it may be there are good reasons to relocate grounds, for example (Luton, Peterborough to name a couple) – but requiring the consent of supporters through an independently constituted shareholder would both provide confidence in that decision-making process, and ensure a higher standard of dialogue if a move was being considered. Of course, some will question how representative Trusts are – indeed, the current Fulham Chief Executive is one of those who has done so.

The answer is, of course, that in any club where the prefix crisis is applied it has been the Trust (or equivalent) that has been at the fore of trying to save and protect clubs under threat. It is at those times that supporters who are not members will look to their Trust to lead, to energise and ultimately to represent the wider supporter interest. A golden share will normalise that role – so it is not just about the crisis situations – but a longer-term, more embedded, responsibility undertaken on behalf of the supporters of a club. After all, owners, directors, managers and players come and go – the supporters stay unless they are driven away by poor decision making.

The implementation of the proposals from the fan led review will be the biggest change in football governance in England for a century – while some aspects will require legislation, it is not the government taking over football as some have sought to suggest, but having in English football independent oversight and an approach that is designed to safeguard clubs, protect the pyramid and value supporters – none of which "leaving it to football" has delivered. Some of it doesn't need legislation – clubs could get on and put a golden share and shadow board in place if they wanted to, and some will do so. All of it presents challenges to football authorities, clubs, owners and supporter organisations – but the opportunity is significant. For Fulham, and an owner publicly committed to good stewardship of what he has said he regards as an asset with history and heritage which is the property of all of those associated with the Club, then there is a chance to be at the forefront of change that is coming. It will be fascinating to see if that opportunity is embraced.



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2021/12/response-fan-led-review/

2 Fulham selection dilemmas Marco Silva is facing ahead of tonight's clash with Bournemouth

Fulham will be looking to extend their advantage at the top of the Championship standings this evening by beating AFC Bournemouth.

Since handing over the reins to Marco Silva earlier this year, the Cottagers have managed to make a fantastic start to life under the guidance of their new manager.

Unbeaten in their last nine league games, Fulham will be determined to produce an eye-catching performance against a Bournemouth side who currently occupy second-place in the table.

In what could be an enthralling encounter at Craven Cottage, it will be intriguing to see whether Silva decides to make any changes to his team for this fixture.

Here, we have decided to take a look at TWO Fulham selection dilemmas that Silva is facing ahead of tonight's showdown with the Cherries...

After being forced to watch on from the sidelines during the opening stages of the 2021/22 campaign, Tom Cairney marked his long-awaited return to action with a goal against Cardiff City in October.

The midfielder has since gone on to make five more appearances for Fulham in the Championship.

However, having missed the club's two most recent league fixtures due to illness, Cairney may find it difficult to displace Harrison Reed or Jean Michael Seri in the club's starting eleven this evening.

Silva could opt to use the midfielder as a substitute against Bournemouth after confirming that the Scotsman will be available for this fixture.

By leaning on his wealth of experience at this level, Cairney could help his side send out a real signal of intent to the rest of the division by securing all three points in this particular clash.

Could Bobby Decordova-Reid make his return to Fulham's starting eleven?
Silva may decide to turn to Bobby Decordova-Reid for inspiration this evening as the 28-year-old has managed to show some signs of promise for Fulham this season.

During the 17 league games that he has played for the club during the current term, the attacking midfielder has provided seven direct goal contributions.

After being left on the substitutes bench for two of the club's last three league games, Decordova-Reid will be determined to prove a point to his manager this evening if he is selected to start.

Having scored 33 goals at this level during his career, the former Bristol City man clearly knows exactly what it takes to compete in this division and thus it wouldn't be at all surprising if he is able to make a positive impact for Fulham this evening.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-fulham-selection-dilemmas-marco-silva-is-facing-ahead-of-tonights-clash-with-bournemouth/

Dominic Solanke exclusive: Bournemouth top scorer fires Fulham warning... 'I've got my confidence back'

Bournemouth's Dominic Solanke has warned Fulham that he feels unstoppable in front of goal ahead of Friday night's promotion showdown at Craven Cottage.

The former Chelsea striker has scored 15 Championship goals already this season, matching his total from last term – but trails Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic, on 21.

Solanke, who was once considered one the most promising young forwards in the country, managed just five goals in three seasons for Liverpool and Bournemouth but says he has has rediscovered his rhythm and confidence for Scott Parker's side.

"I feel like I've got my confidence back which was the main thing holding me back," Solanke told Standard Sport. "I feel like everything's coming together.

"Confidence is one of the most important things in football and at the moment I've got bundles. Every time I get in front of the goal, I think I'm going to score. As a striker, that's key.

"Having last season under my belt, playing game in game out, helped me to kick on in all aspects. I feel good in my body. I feel fit and adapting to playing every week has helped me.

"It's too early to say [Fulham] is a decisive game but it's two teams who want automatic promotion, so to win would lay down a marker to our rivals at the top."

Parker's side are just one point behind the Cottagers and the Cherries boss returns to west London with a point to prove after leaving Fulham following last season's relegation.

Solanke says Parker has helped to take his game to another level since joining the club in June.

"He's a fantastic manager," Solanke said. "His staff are really good as well and him coming in early in pre-season really helped us. It gave everyone time to adapt to their philosophy.

"The way they play and what they demand from players in my position has helped as well.

"He demands work ethic. He likes looking at the running stats and that's made me a lot fitter this season than I was last season. I'm able to keep going for the full 90 minutes at 100 per cent. That's definitely helped.

"The tactics he likes to play has definitely helped me as well. Everyone can see how much we like pressing, winning the ball back high up the pitch. Playing quick football, getting the ball towards their goal, which is where I am. That's another thing that's played a part [in my form]."

Solanke earned a senior England cap against Brazil not long after joining Liverpool following the end of his Chelsea contract in June 2017.

But he scored just once in the Premier League for the Reds before a £19million move to Bournemouth, where he similarly struggled for top-flight goals.

Asked if he has a point to prove in the Premier League, Solanke said: "Yeah, I think so.

"I think I'm a different player to the one I was when I was playing there before. It's a league I'd love to go back to and do well. Hopefully we can get promoted this year and next year I can show what I can do.

"But I've got no regrets at all. In football, stuff can change so quickly. There's no saying if I had a different path it would have benefitted me more or less.

"You have to go with your heart and things will hopefully work out in the end. If you do get a big move and you go there and kill it straightaway, then fantastic – you're playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Then there's another pathway when you're playing for a smaller club and getting more game-time. You never know when you're going to fulfil your potential.

"Obviously, there's not so much pressure [at Bournemouth] as the top teams in the Premier League. In the top teams, the pressure there is immense. But there's always pressure as a striker, you're always expected to score goals.

"I just want to keep trying to improve as a player," he added. "I think I'm on the right track to doing that. I just want to see out this season strong and hopefully next season we'll be back in the Premier League. That's a stage where you could showcase your ability and force your way back into the national team."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-vs-bournemouth-dominic-solanke-b969864.html

"We are, unquestionably, the best club in the country" – Huw Jennings to FST AGM 2021.

The Trust was delighted to be joined on Zoom for our 2021 AGM by Head of Football Development at Fulham Huw Jennings, and his opening line was only the start of what was an incredibly insightful look at the Fulham Women's team and its growth, as well as a discussion about the Academy, our young players and the plans that are being made for a bright future for Fulham's homegrown.

Opening the discussion on the matter of taking on the women's team as part of his new role, which began ahead of the 2021/22 season, Huw clearly sees the new challenge as something to relish.

"It was time to look at some succession planning and I realised I had to be open to whatever the Club wanted to do with me. I continue to really enjoy working at the Club, and we are unquestionably the best club in the country. One of the things that we certainly felt that we needed to do was embrace our women's programme, by bringing it first to the performance side of the Club. Mike McSweeney and his colleagues had done a sterling job at the Foundation, but women's football is growing immeasurably...[and we were] conscious we weren't doing what we should be doing to demonstrate the importance of the women's programme."

There is clearly a long-term growth plan for women's and girls' football for all, with exciting plans afoot from youth level upwards. Although the Club are currently unable to have a youth level team, the opportunities for girls to get involved in playing football are being nurtured and expanded across ages through the great work of the Fulham FC Foundation.

With open questions from our audience of Trust members, the discussion moved to insightful chat around the role of transitions for young players, and how this is being managed by the Club. As he explained the intricacies of the requirements needed to take a player through youth level to a professional contract, and the specific set of circumstances that need to align, it was a frank discussion about ways that it is done well, the support that is given to younger players, and the free will of players to make their own decisions when it becomes time to go professional. It's something that Huw clearly has a great passion for given the time he afforded us all to provide an explanation of what happens now at the Club, plans for the future, and also in the past given some well-known cases of players not remaining after years spent with the Fulham academy.

It's clearly an area that still requires building, and this is a strong reason for the new role that Huw has taken on with the Club, with his goal being to see more Fulham players rise through the ranks to play for the first team in the Premier League.

Many can see from the outside that for any club involved in three relegations and two promotions over eight years, planning and understanding the future is never easy. As Huw explained, however, the goal is and remains the same, the Premier League for the first team, and youth players to play a vital role in that. It's something that Marco Silva has made clear to the current youth setup too, shown with the use of Jay Stansfield and Adrion Pajaziti this season.

We'd like to give a big thank you to Huw Jennings for joining us this year and for his openness during the evening, and also to his Cavachon Brinkley who provided a number of entertaining interventions!

To be able to participate in our next AGM, which we hope to have in-person too, and our other future plans for 2022, please consider becoming a Trust member if you're not already. It's always great to hear from new voices from across the Fulham family.



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2021/12/agm-2021-fst/

Harry Wilson shares his thoughts ahead of Fulham clash vs Bournemouth

It's a huge clash in the Championship this weekend as two high-flying teams in Fulham and Bournemouth face off against each other – and Harry Wilson is well up for the clash, as reported by the club's official website.

Fulham have been in scintillating form so far this season, due in large part to the free-scoring Aleksandar Mitrovic. The Cherries too have looked sharp and led by Scott Parker, they have picked up some solid results and find themselves currently sat in the automatic promotion spots.

This weekend then could see one of the two teams gain a small advantage over the other in the battle for promotion and the second tier title – and Harry Wilson will certainly be hoping it is his team that do.

The player managed 31 games for the Cherries during their final Premier League season and hit seven goals but he has managed even more contributions in front of goal for Fulham since his switch to Craven Cottage.

With six goals and seven assists for the Cottagers in just 17 games so far this year, he has become a key player for the side – and will be desperate to add to that tally for his new side against his former one.

Now, having been allowed to permanently leave Liverpool, he is thriving in his new permanent home at Fulham.

A regular in the starting eleven for both club and country, the 24-year-old is so far living up to his potential and is eager to get stuck into his former team at the weekend.

Speaking to the club's official website, he said: "When you play against a Bournemouth team, especially in the Championship, you know what a good and strong outfit they're going to be, and they've shown that this season. And for me to play against a few of my friends and people I've shared the pitch with is going to be good.

"I class Meps as one of my best mates so it's going to be good to play against him. But for that 90 or 95 minutes, our friendship will be put to one side because I'll be doing all I can to win the game for Fulham."

Wilson then will be gunning for victory and an important three points. If he can carry on his fine form, then Fulham have every chance of getting them.

The Verdict

Harry Wilson is having a great year now he has a new permanent home. He can get used to the style in which Fulham play and thrive in the system every week knowing he won't have to re-adapt upon a move to another side or at his parent club.

It has allowed the player to get even better this season. It also means that, with him and the rest of his teammates playing well, he could be set for another crack at the Premier League in the next campaign.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/harry-wilson-shares-his-thoughts-ahead-of-fulham-clash-vs-bournemouth/

Scott Parker 'proud' of Fulham work as he returns with Bournemouth for crunch top-of-the-table showdown

Scott Parker says he will always view his time at Fulham as a success, as he prepares to return to Craven Cottage for the first time with Bournemouth on Friday night.

Parker left Fulham for their Championship rivals in the summer following their relegation from the top flight, having been a player and manager at Craven Cottage.

"I feel like we left the football club in a good place," said Parker. "I'm very proud of the work I did there.

"There are players that we gave opportunities to, that we've developed, along with a structure and a good group. Marek Rodak, Fabio Carvalho, Harvey Elliott, Antonee Robinson, Harrison Reed.

"Two years I was there as manager, four years I was there as a player, six months as a coach. I will have fond memories, proud memories.

"Football moves very quickly. But when all is said and done, I will look back on that time there as a successful one."

Fulham and Bournemouth are the current top two in the Championship table, separated by just one point.

"They are a very good side," said Parker of their title rivals. "Technically a very good team, strong, goals in their team and a group of players who have navigated themselves out of this division before.

"We are a point off them and have done well as well. I am sure they will be saying the same of us. It is a massive game."

Fulham are unbeaten in nine matches and go into the game on the back of two draws following seven straight wins. Manager Marco Silva said: "We are demanding more from ourselves."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-bournemouth-scott-parker-b969903.html

Jean Michael Seri makes key Fulham claims on Marco Silva, promotion and his main obligation

Jean Michael Seri feels he has a duty to pay Fulham back this season after enduring a disappointing start to his Craven Cottage career, speaking in an interview with The Sun.

The 30-year-old first arrived at the club back in July 2018 after previously being linked with more established top-tier sides including Barcelona, Chelsea and Liverpool, joining the Cottagers' on a four-year deal.

Unfortunately, he was unable to guide the west London outfit to Premier League safety during the 2018/19 campaign despite making 32 top-tier appearances, then being shipped out to Turkish Super Lig outfit Galatasaray the following season.

Fulham's promotion back to the top flight at the first time of asking looked set to boost the midfielder's first-team chances in the English capital last term, but he wasn't included in former manager Scott Parker's plans and was forced to endure another temporary loan away from the club at the start of this year, joining Ligue 1 outfit Bordeaux for the remainder of 2020/21.

However, the departure of 41-year-old Parker this summer proved to be the turning point in the Ivory Coast international's career in England, re-establishing his status as one of the first names on the teamsheet under predecessor Marco Silva and recording an impressive six assists in 19 Championship matches so far this term.

A rejuvenated Seri now has his sights set on a Premier League return, singling out Silva for praise and also went on to state why he believes he owes a lot to his current side as he sat down with The Sun.

Speaking in this interview, the 30-year-old said: "Unfortunately things didn't go as we all wanted.

"The club spent a lot of money for me and expected better from me.

"I didn't give back something.. I must give the club something back for that investment so I'm glad to be doing so now."

With his past firmly behind him, he will be hoping to keep Silva's men on the right path as they currently sit top of the table, drawing their last two games but benefitting from AFC Bournemouth's recent slip-ups.

West Bromwich Albion, who were also previously in the automatic promotion race, have now dropped down to fourth and with that, the west London side and the Cherries are now firm favourites to clinch the top-two spots.

And Seri believes it's a matter of when, and not if they return to the top tier of English football.

"I'm here for the whole season. I want to celebrate when we get promoted. I want to enjoy this moment with the club", he added.

"Fulham deserves it because they've spent a lot of money on me. They deserve to be in the Premier League for many years and I believe Marco is building something good.

"And I want to pay the club back."

The Verdict:

Even those who aren't Fulham supporters will be pleased to see Seri's time at the club finally working out after enduring a disappointing three years previous to his transformation this summer.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa's temporary departure may be a blow for the second-tier side, because the Cameroonian would have boosted their promotion hopes further, but seeing his 30-year-old teammate remain at the club has helped to provide the necessary quality and depth in midfield needed for his club to thrive this term.

Tom Cairney spent the early stages of the season out with a long-term injury, so to have the ex-Nice man at their disposal and in fine form was key to a reasonably successful start to their campaign.

And the fact he has managed to keep his starting spot in the middle of the park just shows how good he's been, because the likes of Cairney, Harrison Reed, Nathaniel Chalobah and Josh Onomah can also play in his role.

There may be a need to rotate him at some stage in the season to keep him fresh, but as long as he's a regular starter, you could definitely see him extending his stay at the current promotion favourites beyond next summer.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/jean-michael-seri-makes-key-fulham-claims-on-marco-silva-promotion-and-his-main-obligation/

Away Day Guide – Reading

It will be our last fixture for 2021, and it's just a short journey for players and fans to Reading. Here's your guide for getting there and enjoying the day.

TICKETING INFORMATION

Fulham's allocation for this fixture has sold out.
GETTING TO THE MADJESKI STADIUM
BY CAR

The Madjeski Stadium is clearly visible on your left along the M4. Exit the M4 at Junction 11, bear left onto the A33, which will you take straight to the stadium, which is well signposted. This route can become congested the closer it gets to kick-off so all drivers are advised to leave plenty of time for their journey.

There is limited parking at the Madjeski Stadium priced at £10, but there will be significant delays exiting the official car park after the final whistle. There are also a number of unofficial car parks nearby in the local business parks, the cheapest being on Acre Road (£5).

Fulham fans could also use the Park and Ride facility at Mereoak (RG7 1PB), which is located close to the Junction 11 exit from the M4 and is served by buses from the town centre. Take the A33 towards Basingstoke from Junction 11 and follow the signs for the park and ride. Parking is free and the bus costs £3.50 return for adults, £1.70 for under-19s or concessions and there is a group ticket that covers up to four people for £7.

There are also a number of unofficial car parks in the area sited at local businesses (Acre Road at a cost of £5)
BY TRAIN

It is more than three miles from Reading Station to the Madjeski Stadium. Supporters are advised either to board the F1 'Football Special' bus from Station Hill (turn right out of the station's main entrance, go down the steps and the buses leave from the left hand side set of stops) or take a taxi from the station to the ground (which will cost approximately £10).
BY COACH

The official club coaches will depart Motspur Park and Craven Cottage at 4.30pm on matchday.
AWAY PUBS

The pubs in the vicinity of the ground are designated as home fans only.

The Three Guineas (Station Approach, Reading, RG1 1LY) next to Reading Station has been the traditional away venue for visiting supporters. It is a Fulller's pub offering a large selection of guest ales, wine and ciders as well as excellent, reasonably-priced food and shows all live sport on their TV screens.

The Hope Tap (on Friar Street, Reading, RG1 1EP) is the closest Wetherspoons – located about five minutes walk from the station – that has welcomed Fulham fans in the past and has a small beer garden.

The Oakford Social Club (53 Blagrave Street, Reading RG1 1PZ) has also welcomed Fulham fans before and can be found directly opposite the station. This is an American-style bar serving a large selection of cask beers and offering a good range of food options.

The Crown (3 Bridge Street, Reading, RG4 8AA) is offering a 10% discount on drinks for Trust members who pre-book. To take up this offer, please email: [email protected].

Alcohol is available inside the ground in the form of Heineken (£5), Guinness (£5), Amstel (£4.60), Theakstons Bitter (£4.60) & Symonds Cider (£4.60), plus Red or White Wine (£4.70 for a small bottle).



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2021/12/away-day-guide-reading/

U18 Preview: Saints vs Fulham

Saints' youngsters are back in Under-18 Premier League action this weekend as they host Fulham at Staplewood.

THE MATCH

Saints vs Fulham
Under-18 Premier League
Staplewood Campus
Saturday 4 December, 11am GMT

After travelling to Newcastle last weekend for their cup fixture to be called off, Saints' Under-18s will be eager to get back out on the pitch on Saturday as they take on Fulham.

Carl Martin's side have been impressive so far this season, claiming 22 points out of a possible 30, leaving them second in the table and joint on points with both Chelsea and Leicester.

Saints' last league outing saw them claim a 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

Fulham aren't far behind, currently sitting fourth with 18 points to their name.

The visitors have drawn three and lost one in their previous four games, so they'll be looking to close the gap when they visit Staplewood on Saturday.

PREVIOUS MEETINGS

Saints were on the losing side in both fixtures when these two sides met in the 2020/21 season.

Falling to a 2-0 home defeat back in October 2020, before suffering a 6-0 loss in March of this year.

Saints' last victory over Fulham came in the 2018/19 season when a Christian Norton brace followed by a Dan Bartlett strike saw Saints emerge 3-1 victors.

MANAGER'S THOUGHTS

"We're looking forward to getting back to the league programme," said Individual Player Coach Mikey Harris. "We had a bit of a disappointing weekend last week travelling up to the Newcastle and the game being called off."

"I think the boys are raring to go for a match because they missed out last week. Obviously we know it's going to be a really difficult game.

"Fulham are a really strong academy and they're always very strong at Under-18 level and they're always at the top of the league, there or there abouts, every season.

"It's another really good challenge and one we're looking forward to."



https://www.southamptonfc.com/news/2021-12-03/under-18-preview-southampton-fulham-under-18-premier-league-2021-22

 
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