Friends of Fulham

The Premier League new signings XI of 24/25 features Fulham pair

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Emile Smith Rowe stars in Premier League new signings XI of 24/25

We have put together a Premier League new signings XI based on performances and not potential, so there's no Chelsea and only one Man Utd.

GOALKEEPER: Arjanet Muric (Ipswich Town)
One of Vincent Kompany's many mistakes last season as Burnley boss was steadfastly sticking with his expensive new signing James Trafford when Arjanet Muric was Right There. Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna is not about to make the same mistake and the excellence of Muric is one of many reasons Ipswich look the most likely of the promoted clubs to survive. His six saves at Brighton earned the Tractor Boys a very impressive point.
 
RIGHT-BACK: Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United)
How very Manchester United that the player who arrived with the least fanfare has clearly adapted to the Premier League with the smoothest transition; he was possibly the only outfield player to emerge with any credit from the shellacking by Tottenham. You might argue that the Manchester United right-back should not have made more challenges this season than any other Premier League right-back and yet...

CENTRE-BACK: Joachim Andersen (Fulham)
There was some low-key transfer brilliance from Fulham this summer and chief amongst a very solid series of decisions was sensing that Crystal Palace would sell Joachim Andersen for £30m rather than accepting double that price for Marc Guehi. We have said elsewhere that was one of the summer's major mistakes but well done Fulham; Andersen is quite the upgrade on Chelsea's Conference League centre-half Tosin Adarabioyo.

CENTRE-BACK: Nikola Milenkovic (Nottingham Forest)
It's a piece of bona fide transfer chicanery/magic that Forest sold Moussa Niakhate (15 Premier League starts last season) to Lyon for £27m and then somehow bought a long-time Serbian international centre-half from Fiorentina for less than half that price. He has been nothing short of a revelation for Forest (particularly in that famous win at Anfield), who now boast one of the finest – and definitely hardest – centre-half partnerships in the Premier League in Milenkovic and Murillo.

LEFT-BACK: Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal)
Over to Ian Wright: "He is very good. I always thought our left-hand side wasn't properly activated. Even when we tried with [Oleksandr] Zinchenko or [Jakub] Kiwior, it hasn't really worked. Even playing [Jurrien] Timber there hasn't worked. With Calafiori, the way he activates Martinelli... he's a whole different kettle of fish now." So that's the left side sorted now...Arsenal are really very good at this sh*t.

CENTRAL MIDFIELD: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)
Clearly a transfer influenced by PSR but actually a sound investment for Forest in an area that needed reinforcements. Anderson's versatility has been a massive bonus for Forest in an impressive opening to the season. Has he been spectacular? No. Is there a real lack of central midfield signings who have walked straight into their new teams? Yes.

CENTRAL MIDFIELD: Amadou Onana (Aston Villa)
A really clever signing from Aston Villa of a player who had outgrown Everton. A genuine all-rounder, he has made more tackles than only a handful of Premier League midfielders but he has also contributed two goals. He's still only 23 so will doubtless get better under Unai Emery, who will iron out some of the raw wrinkles in his game. And he's just helped them beat actual Bayern Munich.

RIGHT FORWARD: Savinho (Manchester City)
The 20-year-old Brazilian describes his strengths as "playing joyful football", "taking on opponents, being happy, getting the crowd on their feet" and Man City have already seen plenty of all that, with the assist for Erling Haaland's goal v Arsenal perhaps an early highlight. A true success of the multi-club ownership model, Savinho has been a City player in waiting since he joined 'Troyes' two years ago. The early signs are that he is here to stay.

ATTACKING MIDFIELD: Emile Smith Rowe (Fulham)
Arsenal respected that Smith Rowe needed to play first-team football, while they were very grateful for the pure profit transfer, thank you very much; Smith Rowe has settled straight into life at Fulham, with one goal and two assists in his first six Premier League games. He is simply a classy footballer with an almost old-fashioned touch. The Cottagers really have played a blinder.

LEFT FORWARD: Iliman Ndiaye (Everton)
Creates problems with the ball at his feet and that has become something of an asset to Everton already, particularly as his presence allows Dwight McNeil to wreak havoc in the middle. "Ili's playing unbelievably," defender Michael Keane told Everton TV. "Everyone can see he's a top player." So top that he is reportedly nicknamed Skilli by his Toffees teammates. Mind you, the bar is awful low...

STRIKER: Liam Delap (Ipswich Town)
Chelsea are inevitably already being linked with a player who came through the Manchester City Academy system and worked with Enzo Maresca. Three goals in six games is a phenomenal start for a player who would be a bona fide £20m bargain if Ipswich somehow stay in the Premier League. That price keeps him ahead of Dominic Solanke here.



https://www.football365.com/news/premier-league-new-signings-24-25-xi

Fulham vs Manchester City early injury news with four out
Fulham ready to take on Manchester City as Sky Blues continue to miss midfield sensation

Marco Silva's Fulham are off to a flying start this campaign having beaten Leicester, Newcastle and most recently Nottingham. However, they are set for arguably their biggest challenge of the season so far when they head to the Etihad Stadium to take on Manchester City this weekend.

Pep Guardiola's side will be fresh off their UEFA Champions League 4-0 win over Slovan Bratislava but were handed a huge injury blow recently amid the news that midfield star Rodri would be out for the remainder of the season with an ACL injury.

The last time these two sides faced each other was not the prettiest of stories for the Cottagers with the Premier League champions beating the Craven Cottage club 4-0 in London but with a revamped squad, Silva will be keen capitalise on the side's recent successes as they make their way up the M1 ahead of Saturday's 3pm clash.

Here are the latest injury updates from both Silva and Guardiola's squads...

Manchester City
Rodri recently underwent surgery on his ACL after sustaining the injury during his club's 2-2 draw against Arsenal. Speaking to the media, Guardiola said of his compatriot: "Surgery this morning, ACL, and next season he will be here. This season is over. Unfortunately, we got the worst (news possible), but these things happen. We will be there to support him in his recovery step-by-step."

Norwegian midfielder Oscar Bobb continues his recovery after suffering an injury in training. The 21-year-old underwent surgery back in August and is expected to be back in December.

Both Nathan Ake and Kevin De Bruyne are predicted to return after the international break. Ake sustained a thigh injury while on duty for the Netherlands while the Belgian midfielder continues to recover from a groin injury he picked up during City's 0-0 draw with Inter Milan.

The Cottagers currently have no injury concerns with Carlos Vinicius - who is currently on loan at Galatasaray - the only Fulham star in the medical room.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-manchester-city-early-injury-news-four-out-4807132

Seven players who joined Fulham for a second spell

In his debut article, Milo Hodgkiss recounts the players who couldn't resist donning the white shirt one more time.

This summer, Joachim Andersen and Ryan Sessegnon joined an illustrious list of Fulham players to have returned for a second stint in black and white. In this article, I take a look at some of the others who just couldn't stay away...

Chris Baird (2007 – 2013; 2016)

A versatile fan favourite whose outrageous brace against Stoke City will forever be etched into Fulham folklore, 'Bairdinho' was signed by Lawrie Sanchez in July 2007. After a fairly unremarkable first two seasons, Baird became a key member of the 2009/10 squad, playing 52 times, including starting in the Europa League final. He left in 2013 having played 127 times across what felt like every position on the pitch. His return to Fulham was as beautifully understated as the man himself; a low-key loan from Derby County for the second half of the 2015/16 season.

Clint Dempsey (2007 – 2012; 2014)

A true Barclaysman, Deuce is our record Premier League goalscorer, but his goals were as iconic as they were numerous: the winner against Liverpool which secured survival in 2007; his brace in the 2-2 draw against Chelsea; that chip against Juventus...

Dempsey was Fulham's top scorer in four of his five full league seasons with the club. Like all good Fulham players, he was sold to Spurs, but he returned to the Cottage on a largely forgettable two-month loan from Seattle in 2014, making seven appearances.

Andy Cole (1991; 2004 – 2005)

The only one on this list whose second spell was longer than his first. Cole scored three goals during a brief loan from Arsenal in 1991, before returning over a decade later having won the lot at Manchester United. He spent one excellent season at the Cottage, ending as our top scorer with 12 Premier League goals.

Ray Lewington (1980 – 1985; 1986 – 1990)

The term "Mr Fulham" springs to mind. Ray has held almost every role imaginable at the club: he made 170 appearances in his first playing spell, before returning as player-manager in 1986 aged just 29. Between 2007 and 2012 he was caretaker Manager (twice), youth coach, first team coach, and – most memorably – Roy's right-hand-man for three glorious years.

Rodney Marsh (1963 – 1966; 1976 – 1977)

A mercurial and skilful centre-forward, Marsh's career could have been cruelly cut short by a nasty collision against Leicester City in 1963, which left him with a broken skull and permanent loss of hearing in his left ear. Remarkably, less than a year later Marsh returned to first-team action and formed a stellar partnership with one Jonny Haynes, netting 17 goals in the 1964-65 season. In 1976, more than a decade after he had left for QPR (a disappointingly common move in more recent times), Marsh joined on loan from the Tampa Bay Rowdies, this time for a knees-up with George Best.

Alan Mullery (1958 – 1964; 1972 – 1976)

Mullery made his Fulham debut as a youngster in 1958 and went on to make more than 350 appearances across two equally successful spells, rudely interrupted by winning a few trophies at Spurs. He was part of the 1975 team who reached our only FA Cup final to date, and also made 35 England appearances, including playing every game of the 1970 World Cup, and becoming the first England player ever to be sent off in an international match at Euro 1968.

Sir Bobby Robson (1950 – 1956; 1962 – 1967)

Although more famous for his managerial career and later his work outside football, Sir Bobby had a lengthy playing career, and represented Fulham nearly 350 times. In 1950, then Fulham manager Bill Dodgin made a personal visit to a 17-year-old Robson at his family home in County Durham to convince him to sign for the club. On the orders of his Father, Sir Bobby kept up his work as an electrician alongside his Fulham contract. Bobby would later describe Fulham as "a nice club, a social club... but never a serious, championship-challenging club".

How will Joa and Sess fare?

So, our most recent returners are clearly in some esteemed company here. Judging from the first few games of the season, Andersen's second spell will be even better (and hopefully much longer) than his first. His reading of the game and raking cross-field passes are in full flow, and he has already formed a formidable partnership with Calvin Bassey.

As for Sess, he will go some way to match what he achieved prior to his big-money move to Spurs, and injuries have clearly hampered his development. But we all know what he's capable of, and even if his on-field contributions remain limited, having one of our own back at the Cottage just feels good.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-10-03-seven-players-who-joined-fulham-for-a-second-spell/

Pep Guardiola to make five changes, £300,000-a-week player to start... Man City predicted line-up vs Fulham
Manchester City will be hoping to return to winning ways at the Etihad Stadium after their 2-2 draw against Arsenal as they prepare to face Fulham on Saturday.

In the Champions League, City convincingly swatted Slovan Bratislava away 4-0 on Tuesday night and bounced back after their recent 1-1 draw against Newcastle United.

However, the Sky Blues will be intending to put the pressure on Premier League leaders Liverpool this weekend.

Arne Slot's side, who are one point clear at the top of the table travel to Selhurst Park to go toe-to-toe with Crystal Palace.

Ahead of Manchester City's upcoming contest, Pep Guardiola could make as many as five changes to the side that triumphed in Slovakia.

Man City predicted line-up vs Fulham
Despite Stefan Ortega keeping a clean sheet against Slovan Bratislava, normal services are expected to resume at the Etihad Stadium with Ederson Moraes looking likely to return to the side.

Having set up Erling Haaland's equaliser in what was yet another brilliant performance, Pep Guardiola raved about Rico Lewis' heroics as he could keep Kyle Walker out of the side against Fulham as well.

With John Stones putting in a solid shift in the Champions League, he could be rewarded with a start.

Manuel Akanji, however, could be rested after starting throughout the ongoing season for City — with Ruben Dias taking his place.

Josko Gvardiol has cemented his place as Manchester City's first-choice left-back this season and until Nathan Ake returns to full fitness, it is difficult to imagine him being benched anytime soon.

Ilkay Gundogan put in an impressive audition against Slovan Bratislava as an alternative to Rodri in defensive midfield and he could be set to start once again on Saturday.

However, Matheus Nunes could be instructed to return to the bench, considering Bernardo Silva, who has started regularly this season was rested for the game.

Having scored and assisted in Europe's elite competition mid-week, Phil Foden seems set to start as his boyhood club's number 10 once again.

Savinho, who started on the left-wing could be asked to shift to the right flank, with Jeremy Doku losing his place to the in-form Jack Grealish.

The £300,000-a-week winger came off the bench against Slovan Bratislava — a decision that could be indicated that Pep Guardiola was trying to keep him fresh ahead of City's next game.

Pep Guardiola revealed the reason why he took Erling Haaland off against the Slovakian side was to preserve his fitness and his revelation could hint that he is set for another start before the international break.

Manchester City predicted line-up vs Fulham: Ederson, Lewis, Stones, Dias, Gvardiol, Gundogan, Bernardo, Savinho, Foden, Grealish, Haaland



https://www.manchestercity.news/manchester-city-predicted-lineup-fulham-2/

Raúl Nominated For Player Of The Month


Raúl Jiménez has been nominated for the Premier League's EA Sports Player of the Month award.

The centre forward scored in all three of his league appearances in September, helping Fulham to an unbeaten month with wins over Nottingham Forest and Newcastle following a draw against West Ham.

His winner against Forest was his 50th Premier League goal.

Raul's competition comes from Harvey Barnes, Luis Diaz, Gabriel, Ryan Gravenberch, Dwight McNeil, Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins.

Voting is open from now until 12pm on Monday 7th October.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/october/03/raul-nominated-for-player-of-the-month/

'It is not going to happen again' – Marco Silva says Raul Jimenez broke Fulham penalty rules in Nottingham Forest win
Raul Jimenez was not in the good books of Fulham boss Marco Silva despite scoring the clincher in Saturday's 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest.

The Mexican striker converted a 51st-minute penalty, his 50th Premier League goal, with the Whites making their best start to a top-flight season in 20 years.

But Silva revealed afterwards that Jimenez had taken the spot-kick duties off Andreas Pereira without approval.

"It is not going to happen again," said Silva. "Has Raul apologised? Yes. He had to, because he knows the rules and how important discipline is in our squad.

"That type of situation is clear, it's decided before the match. Raul knew that moment was for Andreas Pereira, not for him. They spoke and it is decided it will not happen again. The players know the rules we have to have as a team and as a squad."

Jimenez started the campaign as back-up to Rodrigo Muniz but the Brazilian's lack of goals opened the door for his inclusion.

The 33-year-old has netted four times this season – three of those in the Premier League.

Jimenez arrived in a £5.5million deal from Wolves in July 2023, just before the west London club sold Aleksandar Mitrovic to Saudi outfit al-Hilal.

"In an important moment of his career, when he was struggling for goals, we showed the trust in him – and believed in him," said Silva.

"He got used to scoring before the incident but we trusted him. From the first moment in this club he showed his hard work and his quality.

"It's nice to see him score and be decisive for us."

Fulham head to Manchester City on Saturday.



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/it-is-not-going-to-happen-again-marco-silva-says-raul-jimenez-broke-fulham-penalty-rules-in-nottingham-forest-win/

Marco Nominated For Manager Of The Month


Marco Silva has been nominated for the Premier League's Barclays Manager of the Month award.

A terrific start to the season continued throughout September, with seven points from a possible nine seeing us move up to sixth in the standings.

In fact, if it hadn't been for Danny Ings' gutting late equaliser for West Ham in our first game of the month, we would be just two points off the top of the table.

The other names on the shortlist are all bosses at fellow top-six clubs, with Mikel Arteta, Unai Emery, Enzo Maresca and Arne Slot all in contention.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/october/03/marco-nominated-for-manager-of-the-month/

Manchester City v Fulham: The Opposition
A Look at the Blues Weekend Opponents

After their exploits in Slovakia on Tuesday, Manchester City return to the Etihad Stadium as they take on Fulham in the Premier League. The Blues coasted to victory in Bratislava, thanks to a 4-0 victory which could easily have been more.

They face a resurgent Fulham side who are eager to improve on their 13th-place finish last season and have made an excellent start to the new campaign.

Form
Fulham have had a decent start to the season. Since losing 1-0 at Manchester United on the opening weekend, the Cottagers have been unbeaten in the Premier League, winning three and drawing two of the following five matches. That run has propelled them up that table into sixth and a result at the Etihad, coupled with results elsewhere, could see them enter the top four.

Away from home, Fulham have won, drawn and lost each of their three matches on the road. They drew 1-1 at Ipswich at the end of August, but recorded a 1-0 victory at Nottingham Forest last weekend to get their first three points on their travels.

However, they are finding goals hard to come by away from Craven Cottage, scoring just two so far. But they are up against City, who seem to enjoy allowing visiting teams to take the lead this season, so Fulham may at least get their third away goal on Saturday.

Ones to Watch
Raul Jimenez will be Fulham's main threat on Saturday. The former Wolves man has scored three league goals so far this season and his winner at Forest last weekend was the first he'd scored away from Craven Cottage.

Former Arsenal star Emile Smith-Rowe will also be a threat to the Blues backline, having scored two, while the Faithful will want the Blues to be wary of Adama Traore. The striker has only scored one goal this season, but they will no doubt recall the striker bagging a brace for Wolves in October 2019.



https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/2024/10/3/24261008/manchester-city-v-fulham-the-opposition

Director insists it's 'doors open' for Fulham man – Can move to club whenever he likes
Fulham striker Raúl Jiménez has been told the doors will always be open for him at former club Club América, and he can join them whenever he likes.

Director Santiago Baños has came out 'to give a wink' to the striker today, with his comments to ESPN relayed by Soy Futbol.

Jiménez has long been linked with a return to Mexican football at some point in his career and has openly admitted he would like to play for Club América again before he retires.

He started his career with the Mexican side, rising up through their youth ranks before going on to make 103 appearances for the first team, scoring 38 goals and registering 16 assists before joining Atlético Madrid in 2014.

He's since enjoyed spells with Benfica, Wolves and now Fulham, who he joined in a €6.4m deal in July 2023.

His time at Craven Cottage has been a mixed one and he found himself out of the team last season as Rodrigo Muniz was shining in his place.

That saw the 33-year-old being linked with a return to Mexico but those report have now died down as he's started the Premier League season with three goals in six games.

A departure from England does not appear to be on the cards thanks to that, but Baños insists Club América will welcome him back at any point.

"I have a great relationship (with him)," he said.

"He has the doors open, he has mentioned that if he returns it would be with America, today I see it complicated because he is living a good moment, he got his second or third wind.

"I am glad, I hope he stays for many more years and if one day the opportunity arises for him to return, then he has the doors open."



http://sportwitness.co.uk/director-insists-its-doors-open-for-fulham-man-can-move-to-club-whenever-he-likes/

Preview: Manchester City vs. Fulham - prediction, team news, lineups
Seeking to avoid going three consecutive Premier League games without a victory, champions Manchester City welcome Fulham to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The two teams meet for the first time in nearly five months when the Citizens cruised to a 4-0 victory at Craven Cottage towards the end of last season.

Match preview
After being held to their second successive Premier League draw by Newcastle United (1-1) last weekend, Manchester City bounced back with a totally dominant 4-0 win away against Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

City had 28 attempts on goal, 73% possession and hit the woodwork three times in the first half of a one-sided contest, but goals from Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden, Erling Haaland and James McAtee - the latter scoring his first senior goal - eventually helped the Citizens pick up their first three points in the newly-expanded Champions League.

Manager Pep Guardiola believes that his team "are improving step-by-step" in how they attack and he was particularly pleased to see his squad come away from Slovakia unscathed, while a number of players also got valuable first-team minutes under their belts.

Man City have one final Premier League fixture at home to Fulham before the international break and they could slip four points behind leaders Liverpool if the Reds beat Crystal Palace in the early kickoff before Guardiola's men take on the Cottagers.

The reigning champions will fancy their chances of success on Saturday, as they have won each of their last 16 meetings with Fulham across all competitions - the longest winning run one team has had over another in English football league history. Should City merely avoid defeat, they would extend their remarkable unbeaten home record to 50 games.

Fulham have made their best start to a Premier League season since 2003, accumulating 11 points from their opening six matches to help them rise to sixth in the table, just three points behind Man City in second.

Since losing to Manchester United on the opening weekend of the new season, the Cottagers have put together a five-game unbeaten run in the top flight, winning their last two matches against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.

Raul Jimenez scored his 50th Premier League goal and his third in as many games - netting from the penalty spot five minutes after half time - to help Fulham secure a slender 1-0 win at Forest last weekend.

However, the Mexican landed himself in hot water after he snatched the ball off teammate and designated penalty-taker Andreas Pereira, something that is "not going to happen again" under the tutelage of head coach Marco Silva, who has revealed that Jimenez has since apologised.

That incident has quickly been nipped in the bud by Fulham, who are now gearing up for a daunting trip to Man City this weekend. Having said that, the Cottagers have registered three of their four Premier League wins over the Citizens at the Etihad, most recently winning 3-1 in April 2009 under Roy Hodgson.

Manchester City Premier League form:

    W    W    W    W    D    D

Manchester City form (all competitions):

    W    D    D    W    D    W

Fulham Premier League form:

    L    W    D    D    W    W

Fulham form (all competitions):

    W    D    D    L    W    W

Team News
Man City will be without Rodri (ACL) for the rest of the season, while Oscar Bobb (leg fracture), Nathan Ake (muscle) and Kevin De Bruyne (groin) are also in the treatment room, with the latter two set to target a return after the international break.

After making six changes in midweek, Guardiola is set to recall a few senior stars including goalkeeper Ederson and centre-back Ruben Dias, while Kyle Walker could return at right-back if Rico Lewis is deployed in midfield once again.

Mateo Kovacic, Bernardo Silva and Jack Grealish will all be pushing to start in midfield, while Haaland, who has scored five goals in just four Premier League games against Fulham, is expected to lead the line.

As for the Cottagers, their only injury concern is with striker Carlos Vinicius, who has been nursing a "small injury to his calf" and is a doubt for Saturday's trip to the Etihad.

Silva is unlikely to make too many changes, if any, to his starting lineup, with a back four of Kenny Tete, Joachim Andersen, Calvin Bassey and Antonee Robinson set to remain intact, protecting goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

Sander Berge and Harrison Reed will be pushing for a recall in midfield at the expense of Sasa Lukic, while Adama Traore - who scored twice for Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Etihad in 2019 - is set to keep Reiss Nelson waiting for a start on the right flank.


Manchester City possible starting lineup:
Ederson; Walker, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Lewis, Kovacic; Bernardo, Foden, Grealish; Haaland

Fulham possible starting lineup:
Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson; Berge, Pereira; Traore, Smith Rowe, Iwobi; Jimenez

We say: Manchester City 3-1 Fulham
Following a bright start to the campaign, Fulham cannot be taken lightly and Man City expert Steven McInerney from Esteemed Kompany has admitted that he is 'concerned' by how the threatening pace of the Cottagers' attackers could expose the hosts in transition.

Man City have conceded in each of their last five league games and their defence could be breached once again by an in-form Fulham outfit, but we are still backing Guardiola's men to outscore their opponents and extend their impressive winning streak against Silva's side.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/preview/preview-man-city-vs-fulham-prediction-team-news-lineups_554544.html

Fulham lineup vs. Man City: Predicted XI for Premier League clash
Fulham head coach Marco Silva will consider naming an unchanged starting lineup for Saturday's Premier League clash with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

The Cottagers are unbeaten in five top-flight matches and have won their last two, most recently beating Nottingham Forest away from home by a 1-0 scoreline last weekend.

Raul Jimenez scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot and despite snatching the ball off designated penalty-taker Andreas Pereira, Silva has revealed that the Mexican has apologised for his action and will presumably retain his starting spot up front having scored three goals in his last three games.

Rodrigo Muniz could therefore be forced to begin as a substitute once again, while fellow striker Carlos Vinicius is Fulham's only injury concern at present, with the Brazilian still nursing a minor calf problem that makes him a doubt for the trip to the Etihad.

Adama Traore scored twice for former club Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Etihad in 2019 and he is set to continue on the right flank, with Alex Iwobi on the left, although Arsenal loanee Reiss Nelson will be looking to force his way into the first XI.

Emile Smith Rowe has been a standout performer for Fulham since joining in the summer and is expected to start again in an advanced midfield role, while Pereira and Sasa Lukic could both retain their starting spots in deeper midfield positions, although both Sander Berge and Harrison Reed will push the latter for a place in the first XI on Saturday.

After keeping their first clean sheet of the season last time out, Fulham could stick with a back four of Kenny Tete, Joachim Andersen, Calvin Bassey and Antonee Robinson, protecting goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

Fulham possible starting lineup: Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson; Berge, Pereira; Traore, Smith Rowe, Iwobi; Jimenez



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/predicted-lineups/berge-reed-pushing-for-recall-predicted-fulham-lineup-vs-man-city_554548.html?newsnow

Man City vs. Fulham: Pep Guardiola told how Cottagers are 'more than capable' of exposing long-term 'weakness'
Manchester City expert Steven McInerney from Esteemed Kompany feels that Fulham are 'more than capable' of exposing a long-term 'weakness' of the Citizens in Saturday's Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's men head into this contest after cruising to a 4-0 win away against Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League on Tuesday night, extending their unbeaten run in all competitions at the start of this season to 10 games.

In the Premier League, City sit second in the table after accumulating 14 points from six matches, following up four successive wins with back-to-back draws with Arsenal and Newcastle United, drawing 1-1 with the latter last weekend.

The reigning champions will endeavour to return to winning ways and enter the international break on a high with a victory over a Fulham outfit who have made their best start to a league season since 2003, collecting 11 points from six games which has seen them climb up to sixth place.

Marco Silva's side, who have coped well since losing the likes of Joao Palhinha and Tosin Adarabioyo in the summer, have won three times in the top flight this term, including their last two games against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest, securing a slender 1-0 win away against the latter last weekend.

Can Fulham's threatening pace expose Man City weakness?
Taking into account the fact that Man City have won each of their last 16 meetings with Fulham across all competitions - the longest winning run one team has had against another in English football league history - McInerney has unsurprisingly backed Guardiola's men to come out on top in Saturday's contest.

However, McInerney has admitted that he is 'concerned' by Fulham's 'threatening' pace on the flanks and believes City's weakness on the transition could be exposed by a 'functional' Cottagers outfit that have the credentials to end their horrible losing streak this time around.

Speaking to Sports Mole, McInerney said: "[Fulham are] a really good side who've started really well. They're functional, they're organised, a couple of changes here and there (in the summer), but they're still a consistent side. They have a lot of players who have been there for a while, who understand their jobs.

"It's at the Etihad, so immediately I think that puts City in a much more favourable light. City are favourites by a long way, they always will be when you compare a team like Fulham with Man City's resources, but there is quality there.

"If I talk about where City have been weak, it's probably on the transition, and there's probably not many more threatening teams than Fulham with the pace of [Alex] Iwobi and Adama [Traore]. They are absolutely flying players.

"Antonee Robinson loves bursting forward as well, and then you got the wily experience of a physical number nine in [Raul] Jimenez, who scored at the weekend as well. [Emile] Smith Rowe is a really smart signing for them. City tend to concede spectacular goals - they just do and I don't know why - and Smith Rowe is that kind of guy I can imagine putting one into the top corner from 20 yards, he's got that ability, and maybe [Andreas] Pereira as well."

McInerney: 'This might be the game Fulham end horrible Man City losing streak'
McInerney added: "City are still probably reeling a little bit post Rodri, even though the quality that we've got is obviously high. If there was ever a time for Fulham to try and undo that horrible losing streak, this might be the game, they might be able to get a point, or maybe nick three points, who knows?

"I still fancy Manchester City's chances, but we can't take them anything other than really seriously, and I think Guardiola will know that.

"That pace, though, out wide is where I'm concerned, because City play so high up the pitch, and even with Rodri at his very best, we still weren't ever quite as good defensively on the counter-attack than when Fernandinho was there.

"Fernandinho was so much more adept at covering ground compared to Rodri, so it's a weakness of Man City, it has been for a long time and Fulham are more than capable of exposing it."

Man City supporters are sure to remember the time when powerful winger Traore - arguably Fulham's fastest and strongest player - scored twice against the Citizens in a 2-0 win at the Etihad for former club Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2019.

Traore is expected to start in attack along with striker Jimenez, who has scored four goals this season including three in his last three games, while Smith Rowe, Iwobi and Reiss Nelson - who have netted five goals between them this term - will also be pushing to start for the Cottagers.

Three of Fulham's four Premier League victories over Man City have come at the Etihad, including their last (1-3) back in April 2009, but last season, they suffered two heavy defeats by an aggregate score of 9-1 against the champions, losing 5-1 in their most recent visit to the Etihad in September last year.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/news/im-concerned-man-city-expert-explains-how-fulham-can-expose-weakness_554542.html

Man City vs. Fulham: Erling Haaland's record vs. the Cottagers
Manchester City's leading marksman Erling Haaland will be looking to get back on the scoresheet when the Citizens welcome Fulham to the Etihad Stadium for a Premier League clash on Saturday afternoon.

The Norwegian drew a blank in front of goal in the top flight for the first time this season when the Citizens were held to a 1-1 draw with Newcastle United at St James' Park last weekend.

However, Haaland made the net ripple in City's comfortable 4-0 victory away against Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League on Tuesday night, taking his goal tally across all competitions to 11 this term.

Ahead of this weekend's encounter, Sports Mole takes a closer look at Haaland's record against Fulham.

Erling Haaland's record vs. Fulham
Played: 4
Won: 4
Drawn: 0
Lost: 0
Goals: 5
Assists: 1

Since joining Man City from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022, Haaland has faced Fulham competitively four times, all in the Premier League, and has helped the Citizens come out on top on each occasion.

The Norwegian was called upon to save Man City's bacon in his first meeting with the Cottagers in November 2022. The Citizens were drawing 1-1 at the Etihad until Haaland stepped up to convert a dramatic 95th-minute winning penalty.

Haaland was also on target in the reverse fixture at Craven Cottage five months later, scoring from the penalty spot once again but this time after just three minutes as the Citizens picked up maximum points in a 2-1 victory.

City's No.9 then enjoyed a memorable afternoon at the Etihad in September 2023, as he scored a superb second-half hat-trick in the space of just 37 minutes to help Pep Guardiola's side cruise to a 5-1 win.

After setting up Julian Alvarez for City's opener just after the half-hour mark, Haaland was at his clinical best after the interval, slotting home a composed first and smashing in a second from the penalty spot, before completing his treble with a drilled left-footed strike in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Man City put Fulham to the sword 4-0 in their most recent meeting at Craven Cottage in May 2024, but Haaland was unable to get his name on the scoresheet on that occasion despite playing for 82 minutes.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-city/feature/erling-haalands-record-vs-fulham_554556.html?newsnow

'We are enchanted by Silva': The tactical tweak behind Fulham's flying start
Fulham could have lost Marco Silva this summer - instead he has overseen their best Premier League start in 20 years

Fulham have made their best start to a Premier League season in 20 years, with just one defeat on the opening day against Manchester United.

It is a significant improvement on last season, when Marco Silva's side sat 11th at this stage.

Ahead of a trip to Manchester City this weekend, the question for fans is whether that form is maintainable after back-to-back wins over Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.

"It's gone from being a positive start to being the best we have had," Drew Heatley from the Fulhamish podcast and blog tells i.

"We are enchanted by Silva."

Silva's position at the helm has sometimes looked uncertain thanks to interest from both the Saudi Pro League and just last month, Portuguese side Benfica.

However, fans are convinced Silva is fully motivated to stay at the club.

"When I hear him talk, he seems more committed to the project than he has ever been before," Heatley adds.

"I do not think you will find a fanbase more united behind their manager across the board."

Having fans' support is useful for Silva, particularly during a transitional phase which saw the loss of Joao Palhinha, who joined Bayern Munich this summer in a deal worth £47.4m.

Fulham spent in the region of £77m in the transfer market, placing them in the middle of the pack of Premier League clubs.

The signings of Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson from Arsenal and Ryan Sessegnon from Tottenham Hotspur demonstrate Fulham's efforts to rehome underused players from big clubs, as they have done in the past with Harry Wilson from Liverpool.

"They are brought under Marco Silva's learning tree and he has shown he has a real skill of developing these players, making them more than the players they were at the clubs they were at before," Heatley said.

"To get someone of Smith Rowe's stature, some homegrown talent from Arsenal is a real statement of intent from us."

Smith Rowe and Nelson have three league goals between them, partly thanks to Fulham pressing much higher up the field and creating more opportunities.

This is the opposite of Silva's tactics in previous seasons as his side now sits as the fourth highest pressers in the league, compared to last term where they were the 17th highest.

The sudden change coincided with the loss of Palhinha, whose departure forced the team to adapt, as Heatley suggests it was done "more out of necessity" – and would not have happened "if he was there mopping everything [up] like he was".

With central midfielder Sasa Lukic stepping in to take over some of Palhinha's defensive duties, his technical skill complements this new style of play for Fulham, allowing them to still maintain a strong defence but also press forward.

One of the key beneficiaries has been Raul Jimenez. Although he joined in 2023, he has come further into his own this term after an injury derailed last season. He has scored four times in all competitions this season, including his 50th Premier League goal in the 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest at the weekend.

That penalty was surrounded by controversy as he argued with Andreas Pereira over who should take it, but that is a sign of healthy competition.

Fulham are sixth in the table and a top-10 finish looks possible – but City are next, the side against whom Fulham conceded nine goals across their two league games last season. With Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri both out, Fulham are hoping for their first win at the Etihad since 2009.



https://inews.co.uk/sport/football/marco-silva-enchanted-tactical-tweak-fulham-start-3305840?ITO=newsnow

EXCLUSIVE: Marco Silva targeted as Man Utd's next manager
Marco Silva remains an option for Manchester United as a replacement for Erik ten Hag.

The Dutchman has had a poor start to the season, with the Red Devils finding themselves in 13th place in the Premier League table.

The club face Porto in the Europa League and then Aston Villa - it's thought that the club will have to come away with two good results for him to keep his job.

And Ineos are preparing for the worst. United are admirers of Fulham boss Silva, with the London club enjoying significant progress under the Portuguese boss.

The Cottagers are in a European spot in the Premier League - even if it is early days so far - and Silva has quietly been going about his business superbly well.

On the Transfer Podcast, expert Duncan Castles said: "I think you have got to look at whether they go for someone who is experienced from inside the Premier League. Maybe some unexpected candidates might come to the fore.

"I'm thinking of someone, for example, like Marco Silva, who now has close to 200 Premier League games of experience and has obviously done a very strong job getting Fulham back into the Premier League and keeping them there quite comfortably and currently has them six in the Premier League.

"I know Silva does not see Fulham the final step in his career, and it has been very

keen to the extent of turning down Champions League jobs and other

countries at bigger clubs.

"I think it's more than a coach. I think if you look at the squad now, it's difficult to pick out players who are absolute elite quality - there are a lot of, still a lot of bad signings in there, mostly driven by Ten Hag; Antony is the prime example of that.

"I think this summer they had a window to change the direction of the squad it required at least medium-term planning and it required a clearance of players, which I think they achieved fairly well."



https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/tag/exclusive-newsnow/marco-silva-targeted-as-man-utds-next-manager

Away Day Guide – Manchester City
Everything you need to know for a day out at the City of Manchester stadium, or more commonly known as The Etihad. Next visit: October 5th, 2024. Kick-off 3PM UK time.

Travel to the stadium
By car
Exit the M6 at Junction 19 and take the A556 towards Stockport. You will need to join M56 going towards Stockport and then the M60 – which will take you through Stockport and towards Ashton Under Lyne. Come off the M60 at Junction 23 and join the A635 towards Manchester. Head off the A635 to join the Ashton New Road (A662) heading in the direction of Droylsden and Manchester. After approximately three miles, the Etihad Stadium will come into view on your right.

By train
The main train stations into Manchester city centre are Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria. From the city centre it takes around 35 minutes to walk to the stadium, or it can be accessed by tram or bus. More information on each route available to access the stadium can be found here.

Parking
You can pre-book a parking space through the official Man City car park, link to do so here. Pricing starts at £12.

The city-wide Park & Ride service is recommended as an easy alternative parking option, with the following car parks recommended as they have direct buses to the Etihad:

    Ashton Moss (Ashton line) – 183 spaces and 12 disabled spaces – under 25 minutes on a direct service from Etihad Campus.
    Ashton West (Ashton line) – 184 spaces and 11 disabled spaces – under 30 minutes on a direct service from Etihad Campus.
    Ladywell (Ashton-Eccles line) – 332 spaces and 22 disabled spaces – under 45 minutes on a direct service from Etihad Campus.

Bike parking
There are over 300 bike storage spaces within the vicinity of the stadium, the largest of which is underneath the Nexen Tyre Bridge near Ashton New Road and on Joe Mercer Way.

Enjoying the area
Away-friendly pubs

The pubs closest to the Etihad Stadium are designated as home pubs only – and will not admit away fans.

The popular Fulham haunt for away games in Manchester has always been Duffy's Bar in Chorlton (398 Barlow Moor Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21 8AD), which is run by a Fulham fan Peter, and the bar has a George Best shirt from his Fulham players as well as plenty of other football (Manchester City, Manchester United) and other sporting memorabilia (including GAA). The beer is very reasonably priced and all Fulham fans are assured of a very warm welcome. Saturday night is usually live music night if you fancy making an evening of it – or are staying over.

Alternatively, there are a number of pubs in the Printworks, Deansgate or Town Hall areas of Manchester, which are ideally located to take a tram to the Etihad Stadium. Some city centre pubs may ask visiting supporters to cover up their colours – but Fulham fans have usually been treated very well at a number of city centre venues.

Food recommendations
There are no shortage of food options in Manchester city centre with its excellent cultural heritage. Here are a couple of recommendations. If you eat somewhere excellent when you are visiting the ground, please do let us know where.

The Koffee Pot – A fried breakfast, and with the option of a pint if you so choose. Excellent pre-match fare (and not post-match, it closes at 4PM)

This & That Indian cafe – excellent curries, and a Mancunian institution. If you fancy something spicy, here's your spot.

Guides for your day
From the Manchester City website – find it here.

Accessibility guide
We recommend that any disabled visitors visit the Manchester City information page on the Level Playing Field website, found here. For any specific queries ahead of visiting, email: [email protected].

Useful to know

    Cash or card – The Etihad is cashless – only card payment is accepted for food & drink inside the stadium.
    Children – Under 4s may attend the Etihad for free, but they will require a ticket to do so. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
    Bag policy – Only small handheld bags no larger than A4 size (12"x8"x3") will be accepted. Backpacks, holdalls, rucksacks, or any similar items, regardless of size, will not be allowed into the stadium. If you bring a bag larger than the allowed size, you can use the bag drop facilities (locations shown below) to securely store your items until the match is over. The bag drop service costs £10 per item. There is a bag drop located in the 'Grey' car park within the away fan compound.



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2024/10/away-day-guide-manchester-city/

Emile Smith Rowe driven by desire to earn England recall, says Fulham boss Marco Silva
Smith Rowe has made a bright start at Fulham but was left out of the latest England squad by interim manager Lee Carsley

Marco Silva says Emile Smith Rowe's Fulham form is being driven by a personal ambition to return to the England squad.

Smith Rowe joined Fulham from Arsenal in a £34million deal in the summer and has enjoyed a bright start to life at Craven Cottage, scoring twice and registering one assist in his first six Premier League games for his new club.

The versatile 24-year-old forward earned three England caps in 2021 - and scored his first international goal in a 10-0 win over San Marino - before falling down the pecking order at Arsenal.

Smith Rowe was overlooked when England interim manager Lee Carsley named his October squad on Thursday.

But Silva has revealed a return to the England fold is a priority for Smith Rowe, who has helped Fulham to sixth in the table.

"He is motivated [to return to the England set-up], definitely", said Silva. "He's enjoying his football, enjoying his team-mates, enjoying the way we've been playing.

"He fits really well in the way we want to play, fits really well in some aspects where he's been decisive for us. He's going to improve.

"We have to be really pleased with the impact he's already had in our squad. But I think he is going to improve more and more and more."

Silva added: "About the national team, of course it's always a proud moment for any English player. We are here to help him. It has to be a goal for him, definitely.

"Some time ago he was there. It was just one or two caps, but he was there. He felt the moment for sure. It has to be a goal for him to fight for it. The competition in his position is top.

"He has this goal, and we are here to help him to reach his best level for this football club. Of course, when you play at a top level in your football club, you are always there, knocking on the door to be called up by your national team."

Fulham travel to the Etihad on Saturday to play Premier League champions Manchester City.

"No big changes from last week", said Silva when asked for an update on team news.

"Jorge Cuenca is still out. Carlos Vinicius is still out. All the other players are going to be available for the match."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/emile-smith-rowe-fulham-england-b1185752.html

Fulham abandoned £15m deal to sign player from Southampton, now he's in UEFA Champions League Team of the Week
Fulham deserve credit for a fine summer of recruitment during the transfer window just gone.

The Cottagers made several wise moves, bringing a top talent in Emile Smith Rowe to Craven Cottage, while also luring Joachim Andersen back to west London as the two headline arrivals.

Marco Silva has Fulham sitting comfortably in sixth place after a fine start to the 2024/25 Premier League campaign, with the summer arrivals settling in quickly.

However, there was a deal involving Southampton that Fulham abandoned back in August 2023 – which now looks like a big mistake.

Fulham will kick themselves after walking away from £15m Mohammed Salisu deal
A story from The Athletic from back in August 2023 states that Fulham had a £15m deal lined up to sign Mohammed Salisu from Southampton, but decided to sign Calvin Bassey instead.

The Ghana international was looking for an immediate return to top-flight football after the Saints were relegated, but eventually sealed a £17m move to Monaco after the Cottagers rejected him.

Now, Salisu is shining for the French giants, and has just made the UEFA Champions League Team of the Week on matchday two after scoring in Monaco's 2-2 draw against Dinamo Zagreb, making it 2-1 in the 74th minute to ignite a comeback.

As SofaScore shows, the Monaco No.22 made four interceptions, three clearances and six successful long range passes to go with his crucial goal.

Had Fulham proceeded with the £15m deal to sign Salisu, it could have saved millions over the summer, as a sum double that amount was needed to sign Andersen from Crystal Palace, a player who is also three years older than the Ghanaian.

Southampton will be gutted by Salisu development
Putting Fulham aside for a moment, Southampton will also surely feel upset to see Salisu – who West Ham wanted in 2023 – thriving in the UEFA Champions League of all stages.

Had the Saints not embarked on a truly chaotic 2022/23 campaign, in which Ralph Hasenhuttl, Ruben Selles and Nathan Jones all managed the side at various times, relegation could have been avoided, keeping Salisu at the St Mary's Stadium.

Unfortunately, the man from Kumasi had to be sold, and Southampton can only watch on as he shines for Monaco.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-abandoned-15m-deal-to-sign-player-from-southampton-now-hes-in-uefa-champions-league-team-of-the-week/

Manchester City vs. Fulham: Preview, Team News, Previous Meeting and Prediction
A great match to get a big win.

Manchester City face a complicated good home match vs. Fulham! Match day is here and City should be ready and roaring to go after a successful start to the season.

The Premier League is off to the races and City continue the fourth straight defense of the crown.

Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England

Time and Date: Saturday 05 October 2024, Kickoff at 3:00 BST, 10.00 am EST, USA

Referee: Peter Bankes.

Assistants: Eddie Smart, Nick Greenhalgh.



https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/2024/10/3/24261641/manchester-city-vs-fulham-preview-team-news-previous-meeting-and-prediction

Mauricio Pochettino gave one of his USA players surprise 'privilege' after random encounter
Mauricio Pochettino has named his first United States squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Panama and Mexico, and has revealed how he ran into Antonee Robinson in a restaurant

New USA boss Mauricio Pochettino bumped into Fulham defender Antonee Robinson at a London restaurant before selecting him for his debut squad.

The Argentine is set to lead the United States in their upcoming matches against Panama on October 12 and Mexico on October 15, following his appointment as Gregg Berhalter's successor. Having taken up the position last month, the ex-Chelsea and Tottenham manager will be meeting most of his players for the first time ahead of these games.

 However, he'll be glad to have already made acquaintance with full-back Robinson during their unexpected meeting, where the Fulham player's teammates introduced him to his new international boss.

Recalling the warm interaction at a press conference where he announced his first team selection, Pochettino said: "I've got to be honest, I met only one player- Antonee Robinson - because by coincidence he was in a restaurant with his team [Fulham] in London and I met him. I said 'hello' and we were talking and then because some players at Fulham were my players at Tottenham and Southampton, they introduced me to Antonee."

"That was the only player that I saw and I said 'look, you are going to be an exception because I did not speak with one [of his USMNT players. You have the privilege to be the first to talk with me'."

Delving into his strategy for staying in touch with the squad, he said: "I don't want to call only for the reason to say, 'Oh, I call some guy,' or another. I think all deserve the same way for us to operate.

"Of course, after the Austin camp, we are going to be more in contact. Maybe [players] we are thinking in the possibility for the future. Players with potential, we are going to try and create these links and relationships, for them to feel that we are going to care, and look after them, and follow them. And to try to push and motivate [them] that there is the possibility, there is going to be the opportunity, if they perform well.

"We trust the opinion and all the information that we received from the national team [staff], "That is why you are going to see a very similar roster from last camp.

"What we want to feel from [the players] is their commitment, their personality, their character, their capacity to adapt to a new era, a new way to approach the games. And I think that is going to be the key: the capacity for them to think in the collective, to give everything to try to be better like a national team."



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/mauricio-pochettino-gave-one-usa-33816600

I am huge MS fan, think he has done terrific job at FFC and trust him on most anything he decides.  And I know this has been already put to bed.  BUT, I still don't understand his reasoning in this PK-Jimenez-Pereira scenario.  Would MS have been more comfortable having Pereira take that pen when it was clear that Pereira was still hobbling around after treatment and seemingly in some discomfort?  I'm still scratching my head on this one....

Quote from: WindyCity on October 04, 2024, 03:39:45 PMI am huge MS fan, think he has done terrific job at FFC and trust him on most anything he decides.  And I know this has been already put to bed.  BUT, I still don't understand his reasoning in this PK-Jimenez-Pereira scenario.  Would MS have been more comfortable having Pereira take that pen when it was clear that Pereira was still hobbling around after treatment and seemingly in some discomfort?  I'm still scratching my head on this one....

it made me think Andreas limping what was he thinking about,watched marcos press conference yesterday no one asked about the fitness of Andreas.So what was the thinking of everyone.

Quote from: WindyCity on October 04, 2024, 03:39:45 PMI am huge MS fan, think he has done terrific job at FFC and trust him on most anything he decides.  And I know this has been already put to bed.  BUT, I still don't understand his reasoning in this PK-Jimenez-Pereira scenario.  Would MS have been more comfortable having Pereira take that pen when it was clear that Pereira was still hobbling around after treatment and seemingly in some discomfort?  I'm still scratching my head on this one....

But isn't it absolutely crystal clear? They had a set order, Raul ignored it for personal glory. Not up to him to make that decision. Pereira clearly still wanted to take it, it wasn't as if he was being carried off on a stretcher.

Raul ignored the rules as set out by the manager because he wanted to score a goal. He put himself clearly before the team. Nothing more to understand. In my opinion.

I bet Pereira misses the next one he takes

Quote from: sunburywhite on October 04, 2024, 05:16:46 PMI bet Pereira misses the next one he takes

That's the spirit

I don't think he's ever missed a penalty

Quote from: WindyCity on October 04, 2024, 03:39:45 PMI am huge MS fan, think he has done terrific job at FFC and trust him on most anything he decides.  And I know this has been already put to bed.  BUT, I still don't understand his reasoning in this PK-Jimenez-Pereira scenario.  Would MS have been more comfortable having Pereira take that pen when it was clear that Pereira was still hobbling around after treatment and seemingly in some discomfort?  I'm still scratching my head on this one....

Sorry WindyCity, but I think it is quite clear. AP is the designated PK taker. That's it! I knew MS would take issue with this.

I am still not clear as to whether or not Andreas had to leave the field after injury. If the offending player gets booked can the treated player stay on? The rules change so often i can't keep up. One thing not considered is whether or not Andreas should have said to Raul, i've been down injured for a couple of minutes you take it this time and i'll have the next one.

Quote from: iansthailand on October 05, 2024, 03:41:10 AMI am still not clear as to whether or not Andreas had to leave the field after injury.

Not if a penalty kick has been awarded and the injured player will be the penalty-taker.