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Wednesday 04/12
Everton	4-0	Wolves
Man City	3-0	Forest
Newcastle	3-3	Liverpool
Southampton	1-5	Chelsea
Arsenal	2-0	Man Utd
Villa	3-1	Brentford

Another injury concern for Brighton ahead of Fulham as five out and two doubts
All the latest team news ahead of Brighton's Premier League trip to Fulham

Brighton full back Joel Veltman remains doubtful ahead of Brighton's clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Veltman, 32, has been a key man for Fabian Hurzeler's team this term but missed the 1-1 draw against Southampton last Friday night due to a "small issue."

Hurzeler, speaking at his pre-match press conference, confirmed the Dutchman will be re-assessed after training this morning.

The German head coach also stated Tariq Lamptey, who performed well against the Saints in Veltman's absence and provided the assists for Kaoru Mitoma's opener, will be available once again.

Turkey international Ferdi Kadioglu (toe) and midfielder Jack Hinshelwood (knee) remain side-lined.

"He [Joel Veltman] will train today and then we will see if he's available," Hurzeler said. "Tariq [Lamptey] is available for tomorrow. Jack [Hinshelwood] and Ferdi [Kadioglu] still need a little bit of time, but hopefully Joel and Tariq are two options."

James Milner (hamstring), Adam Webster (hamstring) and Solly March (knee) remain unavailable. Germany under-21 international Brajan Gruda will hope to return after illness forced him to miss the draw against Southampton and Carlos Baleba is also expected to be back in the XI having served his one-match suspension following his dismissal at Bournemouth.

Skipper Lewis Dunk looks set to start against Marco Silva's 10th placed team following his calf injury and he could be in ahead of Igor Julio.

When asked if he would switch to a back three, as he did in the second half against Southampton, Hurzeler added: "It's not always the right thing to change a system during a game and during a season but in this case we were forced to do it because we had to take care of Tariq [Lamptey] who hasn't played for a long time and we had to take care of Joel [Veltman].

"We didn't have a right full-back in the squad and that made us the situation where we had to change to a back three.

"Normally I want to stick to one system and one formation. We have a lot of great offensive players and we want to get them on the pitch. We have to try and get the best connection and that's why I'm not the biggest fan of making changes during a game."



https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/another-injury-concern-for-brighton-ahead-of-fulham-as-five-out-and-two-doubts-4894774

'Very convinced' – Fiery Fabian Hurzeler reacts to his FA 'punishment' ahead of Fulham
Brighton's fiery head coach will be in the stands at Craven Cottage

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler will serve a touchline ban on Thursday evening against Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The fiery German will have to watch on from the stands after a yellow card and altercation with Southampton boss Russell Martin during and after their 1-1 draw at the Amex Stadium last Friday.

"I've had this experience once in the Bundesliga," said the former St Pauli manager. "It's a fair punishment for me and I have to learn from it.

"Honestly, I trust my team, I trust my staff. I have a great coaching staff around me and I have two great assistant coaches around me in Crofty [Andrew Crofts] and Jonas [Scheuermann] and they will do a great job.

"In the end, I'm also very convinced that the players will do it on the pitch. It's a bad experience, I don't want to experience that but in the end it's the fair thing so I have to go through it and hopefully I learn from it."

Earlier this season Brighton Hurzeler was fined by the Football Association for acting in an improper manner during their Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on September 22.

Hurzeler admitted the charge after receiving a red card and the German was also fined £8,000. On that occasion Hurzeler avoided a touchline ban.

Speaking previously to Jamie Carragher, on itscalledsoccerus, Hurzeler said: "I have collected a lot of yellow cards as a coach. I know I have to improve but I don't try to be artificial.

"I try to be emotional and passionate on the side-lines. It's about your personality and how you live the game and how you try to help the players. But when I watch the game afterwards and I see my behaviour I think what are you doing there mate?"



https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/very-convinced-fiery-fabian-hurzeler-reacts-to-his-fa-punishment-ahead-of-fulham-4894914

Fulham Women batter Bexhill in League Cup
Fulham Women eased into the next round of the League Cup with a 9-1 demolition of Bexhill this afternoon as Georgia Heasman scored four of the goals in a devastating individual display.

The Whites took the lead in the twelfth minute. Megalie Mendes did well to keep the ball in play and teed up Heasman for a strike on goal. Heasman's effort came back off the crossbar but the forward followed up to bury the rebound. Mendes made it two from the penalty spot four minutes later and Heasman hammered in her second of the afternoon with a fierce drive midway through the first half.

The influential Heasman turned provider four minutes later when she set up Mendes, who struck home the fourth with a sweet shot into the bottom left corner of the net. Steve Jaye's side increased their advantage straight after half time when Belle Taylor-Makepeace beat the Bexhill goalkeeper with a lovely lob within seconds of the restart. Bexhill then headed into their own net from a Fulham corner before Heasman completed her hat-trick with an assured finish.

Heasman then saw another effort helped into the net by a beleaguered Bexhill defender. The home side did grab a deserved consolation before Heasman rounded off the scoring with a clinical effort after more excellent approach play from Taylor-Makepeace.

FULHAM WOMEN: Webber; Tagliavini, Gane, Taylor, Newman; Mendes, Foreman, Gandee Morgan, Stevens; Heasman, Taylor-Makepeace. Subs: Gibbs, Stormer, Filer, Jordan.

GOALS: Heasman (12, 25, 57, 74), Mendes (pen 16, 29), Taylor-Makepeace (46), own goal (56), own goal (68).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/12/fulham-women-batter-bexhill-in-league-cup/

Fulham U21s beat Woking in five-goal thriller
Fulham's under 21s produced an outstanding performance to beat Woking in a five-goal thriller in their final National League Cup group fixture at the Laithwaite Community Stadium this evening.

Hayden Mullins' side began brightly in their purple change strip with Aaron Loupalo-Bi having an early effort deflected into the grasp of Woking goalkeeper Will Jaaskelainen and Terrell Works embarking a solo run into the area. But the Whites gifted the home side an opportunity to take the lead when Eddy Nsasi brought down Matt Ward inside the box. Fulham goalkeeper Alex Borto came to the rescue with a terrific save, diving to his right to keep out Jack Stretton's spot kick.

The Cards were punished almost immediately at the other end as the lively Loupalo-Bi received a forward ball from Chris Donnell, darted inside and fired a fine left-footed effort into the bottom corner beautifully from just inside the penalty area. Woking replied with a prolonged period of pressure that saw Borto first push away a powerful strike from Stretton and then gratefully grab a tame attempt from Dion Kelly-Evans.

Fulham wasted a great chance to double their lead after Donnell had been tripped in the box by Cian Harries at the other end – as Jaaskelainen easily saved a poor penalty from Callum Osmand. Woking roused themselves again with former Brentford midfielder Alan Judge coming very close with a terrific strike and got themselves level through a superb strike by Ward, who found the top corner with a brilliant effort from 25 yards out.

The hosts were now well on top. They carved out good chances to take the lead, with Stretton shooting narrowly off target from a promising position and Dennon Lewis firing wastefully over after being picked out by a good cross from the right flank. The pattern of the contest continued after the interval when Borto made a smart low save to thwart Lewis as the winger looked set to sidefoot home. Woking went ahead for the first time just before the hour mark when Kelly-Lewis buried an excellent header to the delight of the home fans.

Fulham were stung into action and levelled within five minutes through a flowing passing move. Lemar Gordon produced a peach of a pass to play Donnell into a shooting position, but the midfielder unselfishly squared the ball for Osmand to roll a simple finish into the empty net. The visitors then looked particularly dangerous on the break with Osmand breaking into the penalty area – only for Loupalo-Bi to miscue his effort from the edge of the box as the Woking defence failed to clear.

Just as the contest looked set to finish level, Osmand produced a moment of magic to win the game for the Whites. The Welsh youth international collected another clever ball from the dangerous Donnell but did the rest himself, finding space between a number of home defenders to beat Jaaskelainen with a lovely shot into the bottom corner.

WOKING (4-2-3-1): Jaaskelainen; Chicksen; Kelly-Evans, Harries, Dyche; Akinola, Judge (Andrews 55); Ward (Conte 61), Lewis, Anderson (Gorman 70); Stretton (Walker 70). Subs (not used): Leahy, Webber, Kendall.

BOOKED: Harries.

GOALS: Ward (34), Kelly-Evans (59).

FULHAM UNDER 21s (4-2-3-1): Borto; Gofford, Slade (Quashie 70), Park, Nsasi; Nwoko, Donnell; Loupalo-Bi (Olyott 90+1), Works, Gordon, Osmand. Subs (not used): Underwood, White, Zepa, Ali Wahid, Wingate.

GOALS: Loupalo-Bi (9), Osmand (65, 88).

REFEREE: Ross Martin.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/12/fulham-u21s-beat-woking-in-five-goal-thriller/

Wingate hat-trick fires Fulham U18s into FA Youth Cup fourth round
Tom Wingate scored a hat-trick as Fulham's under-18s eased into the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup following a comfortable victory at Notts County this afternoon.

The Cottagers, playing in their purple away strip at Meadow Lane, were quickly into their stride and might have taken the lead early on as Farhaan Ali-Wahid had an early effort blocked. The visitors went in front in the seventh minute when a lovely cross from left back Jon Esenga found Wingate, who finished impressively past County goalkeeper Harvey Lawson. Ali Melloul's side doubled their advantage within seven minutes as French winger Macaulay Zepa sped down the right flank and fired through Lawson's legs.

James Sanderson came close on two occasions to pulling a goal back for County. His fine free-kick whistled just wide of Dino Kaiser's goal before he fired over from distance with another audacious attempt. Esenga also tried his luck from a set-piece, with an ambitious effort from an acute angle ending up on the roof of the net. The end of the first half saw a distressing incident as Zac Denman was stretchered off with what looked like a serious injury with the youngster receiving rapturous applause from the 580 fans in the crowd.

Fulham started the second half as if they were in the mood to kill off the contest. Zepa appeared to be Fulham's most likely source of a third goal – embarking on another mazy dribble down the wing before cutting the ball back for Ali Wahid, who spooned a shot over the bar from twelve yards out. Jayden Quashie also drilled over the crossbar as Fulham continued to press and the Cottagers got their reward seven minutes into the second half.

Wingate seized on a poor pass out from the back by the unfortunate Lawson by rolling his second of the afternoon into an unguarded net. To their credit, County continued to play and were only denied a consolation by the frame of the goal. Kameron Muir's magnificent effort from long-range cannoned back off the crossbar with Kaiser beaten before the Fulham goalkeeper gathered a speculative strike from Sanderson and Harrison Hazard failed to match a fine individual run with a finish as he fired wide of goal.

Ali Wahid curled an effort wide of the target after a promising run but Wingate completed his hat-trick with an excellent first-time finish past Lawson after connecting with a cross from the left flank. Fulham might have had more goals in the closing stages with substitutes Ruban Khan hitting the post and Tarrell Cavell shooting wide – but this accomplished away display ensured the young Whites were in the hat for round four.

NOTTS COUNTY UNDER 18s: Lawson, Hipkiss (Martin 15), Rice, Szczesny (Rowe 74), Nyirenda, Goodwin, Hazard, Muir (Lemard 80), Denman (Smart 45), Sanderson, Emmanuel (Shaw 81). Subs (not used): Noon, Bator.

FULHAM UNDER 18s: Kaiser; Schuttler, Esenga, Cooke, Slade; Quashie, White, Zepa, Ali Wahid; Wingate, Lubega. Subs: Varney, Faux, Picotto, Khan, Cavell, Evans.

GOALS: Wingate (7, 52, 74), Zepa (14).

ATTENDANCE: 580.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/12/wingate-hat-trick-fires-fulham-u18s-into-fa-youth-cup-fourth-round/

Milner, March & Kadioglu: Brighton injury latest as quartet hope to return for Fulham clash
The latest injury updates as Brighton & Hove Albion prepare to visit Premier League rivals Fulham on Thursday night.

These are exciting times for Brighton & Hove Albion as the Seagulls continue to fly high in the Premier League table.

Ahead of the latest round of midweek fixtures, Albion were sat in the Champions League spots after making an impressive start to life under Fabian Hürzeler. In losing just two of their first 14 games of the season, Brighton now have high hopes of qualifying for European competition for only the second time in their history as they continue to make the most of what was yet another impressive summer of recruitment.

A trip to Fulham is next on the agenda for Hürzeler and his players as they visit Craven Cottage on Thursday night. There are some big calls for the Seagulls boss to make as he awaits what he will hope will be positive updates on the fitness of several players - but which Albion players are close to a return to fitness ahead of the trip to West London?

James Milner
The former England international has been out of action since he suffered a thigh injury in a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in the first month of the season. Milner continues to work his way back towards full fitness - although Hürzeler did issue a warning over a possible return date last month. He said: "It's not close, but again, I can't give a clear schedule. It can be fast, it can take a little bit longer, so I don't want to give any schedule or date where we will see him back on the pitch." Now a return to believed to be close and the middle of the month is believed to be a realistic option Estimate return date: Mid-December

Joël Veltman
The Dutch defender has been a regular feature in Hürzeler's starting elevens this season but missed the draw with Southampton after picking up what was described as a muscle injury. The visit to Fulham is expected to come too soon for his return but Veltman could well return towards the middle of the month Estimate return date: Mid-December

Jack Hinshelwood
The England Under-21 midfielder has quickly become a very useful part of Hürzeler's squad and his versatility has been put to good use by the Seagulls boss. The 19-year-old has missed the win at Bournemouth and last week's draw against Southampton with a knee injury but could come back into contention for the trip to Craven Cottage Estimate return date: Thursday 5th December

Ferdi Kadioglu
The Turkish international has impressed since his summer move to Brighton but has not featured in the Premier League since he suffered a toe injury after scoring in the defeat at Liverpool last month. However, he could return for the Fulham game Estimate return date: Thursday 5th December

Brajan Gruda
The summer signing missed the draw with Southampton with a virus but is expected to be in contention for Thursday night's visit to Fulham Estimate return date: Thursday 5th December

Solly March
The long-serving winger remains on the sidelines with a serious knee injury and his involvement this season has been limited to a 26-minute performance in an Under-21s win against Crystal Palace. As it stands, there is no set return date Estimate return date: Unknown

Adam Webster
The defender has not appeared in the Premier League since he limped out of the home win against Tottenham Hotspur in October and was immediately diagnosed with a hamstring injury. After slowly making his way back towards fitness, there is some hope Webster could be back in contention for Thursday night Estimate return date: Thursday 5th December



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/milner-march-kadioglu-brighton-injury-latest-4894939

Professional Contract For Underwood
The Club is delighted to announce that goalkeeper Marco Underwood has signed his first professional contract.

Marco joined Fulham at the start of the calendar year, signing from Woking after a successful trial period.


The 18-year-old immediately impressed upon his permanent arrival at Motspur Park, making seven competitive appearances for our Under-18s, as well as making his U21s debut in a 7-1 victory against Reading.

His fine form for our Young Whites has continued into the new campaign, making six appearances in the U18s Premier League and captaining the side on occasion.

After signing his first pro contract, Marco said: "I'm delighted to put pen to paper. It's taken a long time to get to this point and I'm really happy that the Club has given me this opportunity.

"I'd like to thank all the staff members and coaches here at Fulham, but particularly my mum and dad for pushing me and helping me become the best possible player I can be."

Sean Cullen, Academy Director, added: "Marco has had an interesting journey to this point, travelling an unconventional path to a professional contract.

"Marco enjoyed success at non-league level before making a positive transition into Academy football. It is clear that those experiences gave him a real platform with his goalkeeping, that he has continued to work hard to develop since joining us last season. Marco is another 'high character' player who has worked diligently in all areas of the programme."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/december/04/professional-contract-for-underwood/

Matchday Preview: Brighton
🆚 Brighton & Hove Albion
🏟 Craven Cottage
🏆 Premier League
🗓 Thursday 5th December
⏰ 7.30pm (GMT)
#️⃣ FULBHA

The opposition

Brighton have enjoyed an immaculate opening third of the season under new boss Fabian Hürzeler, with only Liverpool losing fewer than their two Premier League defeats so far – form which has them sitting fourth, but only two points off second.

Things could have been even rosier for the Seagulls had they not dropped points against the likes of Ipswich Town, Nottingham Forest, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Southampton, but those disappointments will have been mitigated by victories over Tottenham Hotspur and both Manchester clubs.

Team News

🤍 The Whites will be light in central midfield, with Harrison Reed injured and Tom Cairney (three game ban) and Saša Lukić (one game) suspended. Joachim Andersen is still injured, but Andreas Pereira and Jorge Cuenca are available for selection.

🔵 Tariq Lamptey is fit despite his withdrawl in the Southampton draw last Friday, while they also hope to have fellow right-back Joel Veltman available. Jack Hinshelwood, Ferdi Kadioglu and Solly March all miss out. Hürzeler will be serving a one-game touchline ban.

Tickets

Fans can still pick up General Sale tickets for this fixture.

Kits

Brighton will sport their yellow change strip at the Cottage.

Coverage

FFCtv subscribers can listen to commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid, while the game will be broadcast on Amazon Prime Video in the UK, and on Peacock in the United States.

Weather

🌧� Expect some light rain on Thursday evening, with temperatures around 13 degrees.

Drinks offers

Fans can enjoy £3 pints of beer, cider, Guinness & pale ale, as well as canned wine in all four stands, and £2 soft drinks, until 6.30pm.


Matchday programme

Calvin Bassey is the main interview in the official matchday programme. The defender takes us through a footballing journey of hard work, resilience, and learning from every challenge.

Elsewhere in the publication, Alan Mullery reflects on memorable stints with both Fulham and Brighton, Women's star Tia Foreman spills the beans, and Jorge Cuenca answers some very random questions.

Marco Silva and Tom Cairney also supply their regular notes, while Tom Wingate is the subject of our Academy Ace feature.

Packed with an abundance of features, the 100-page programme will be on sale around the ground on Saturday, priced £4, or you can pick up a copy online.




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/december/04/matchday-preview-brighton/

Arsenal loan watch: Fabio Vieira impresses again as Reiss Nelson builds Fulham platform
Gunners flying high but options out on loan offer reminder to Mikel Arteta

Arsenal are flying high at the moment and the same goes for some of their players out on loan.

Fabio Vieira was among those in the goals for the Gunners' loanees, who are fighting to catch the eye while away from the club.

And here, Standard Sport takes a look at how they have been performing over the past week...

Fabio Vieira
The midfielder continued his good run of form for Porto by making it two goals in as many games on Monday night.

Vieira scored Porto's opening goal in their 2-0 win of Casa Pia, which followed on from his goal against Anderlecht last week.

That was the 24-year-old's first goal for the club since returning to them on loan this summer. Vieira is hoping to get plenty of minutes this season and has made 10 appearances so far.

Nuno Tavares
The left-back's fine to the start to life in Italy was halted over the international break after he picked up a hamstring injury while away with Portugal.

Nuno's performances for Lazio had earned him a first call-up to Portugal's senior squad, but he is currently in the middle of a spell on the sidelines.

The 24-year-old has missed Lazio's last three games, but reports in Italy say he could return this weekend for the clash with Napoli.

Reiss Nelson
Started for Fulham in their 1-1 draw at Arsenal's rivals, Tottenham, on Sunday and played just over an hour.

It was the fourth Premier League game in a row that Nelson has started and he is becoming a regular under Marco Silva. The winger will hope to keep his place when Fulham host Brighton on Thursday night.

Albert Sambi Lokonga
Has started both games for Sevilla since they returned to action after the November international break.

The Belgian played the whole game in the 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano and got through 86 minutes in Monday's 1-1 draw at Osasuna. After a slow start to life in Spain, Lokonga has started all five of Sevilla's last games.

Karl Hein
Had a night to forget against Atletico Madrid as Valladolid were beaten 5-0 by Diego Simeone's side on Saturday. Valladolid are currently enduring a difficult season and sit bottom of La Liga after 15 games.

Marquinhos
The winger came off the bench for Fluminense during their 0-0 draw with Criciuma last week, but he was not part of the squad that faced Paranaense at the weekend.

Reports in Brazil say that Fluminense will not make his loan move permanent when the chance arises to this January.

Charles Sagoe Jr
On loan at Shrewsbury, but has not been involved since a 3-0 defeat to Walsall on November 12.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arsenal-fc-loan-players-vieira-nelson-premier-league-2024-b1197757.html

Pre-Brighton Press Conference
Five of Fulham's seven December fixtures see us up against the Premier League's current top seven.

It's a famously hectic time of the year, and Marco will be giving every match the respect it deserves, while also hoping to have some players return from injury sooner rather than later.

"It's going to be a busy one and really tough one," he said of the festive calendar. "When you look on the paper and periodically, they are going to be really tough games. It is what it is, it's part of the schedule.

"We all know that we have to have this busy December – Boxing Day against Chelsea, next week against Liverpool, tomorrow and in four days Brighton and Arsenal as well. Plus, Southampton, plus Bournemouth at the end of the year as well.

"What I would like is to have all the players available, because we know that with all of them, we are more able to rotate players and to put some fresh legs inside, because we need [it], like the other teams need it as well.

"Let's see when Harrison and Joa can come back, because we are going to need all of them available.

"About the schedule, the next one is the more important one for us. It's going to be Brighton, and after will come Arsenal. We respect all the teams in the same way.

"Sometimes, if you talk with the football people, with our fans, they expected us to take much more from the Wolves game at home than Tottenham away from home. And the reality in the Tottenham game is we took one point and deserved more, and against Wolves, even if we deserved much more, we didn't take [anything], and football is like that.

"The Premier League is the best example of what I'm talking about, and we have to be always in our best, we have to reach our certain standards that are important for us."

Fourth placed Brighton provide the next test, a side that Silva has always been impressed by, regardless of who they have at the helm.

"They have a clear identity as a football club, first of all," he said. "Since I'm here, I already played against three different managers, and the reality is that these different managers that I played, all three seasons, they have always been finishing in a good level and improving as a club. You can see from outside.

"But the idea of the club, for sure the structure is there, and they know what they have been doing.

"When they go to the market, they have been capable to find what they really need and what they want. Some young players, very skilful players, the pace in the team, the quality of the players.

"Of course, this summer, last summer as well, was slightly on a different page, because when you see a team spent almost £200million means that the quality has to be there.

"And in terms of the market this season, probably one of the teams that spent the most money in the Premier League. That shows their ambition, shows the reality of the club right now."




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/december/04/pre-brighton-press-conference/

Fulham have Southampton's £18m deal to blame as director rules out striker transfer
Fulham may have Premier League rivals Southampton to blame – to an extent – if their hopes of bringing a new centre-forward to Craven Cottage take a hit ahead of the January transfer window.

While tenth in the table may be a more than respectable place for Marco Silva's side to find themselves in after 13 matches, the frustration nagging away at the back of Fulham minds is that things really could be a little bit better.

In those narrow defeats to Manchester United and Manchester City – and even during the eventual 4-1 defeat to a Matheus Cunha-inspired Wolves – Fulham created chances, missed chances, and were made to pay at the other end of the pitch.

Raul Jimenez's return to form has been a sight to behold; the Mexican not quite back to his pre-injury best but not a million miles away.

But with Rodrigo Muniz yet to recapture lightning in a bottle, with Andreas Pereira, Adama Traore and Reiss Nelson not exactly prolific and Emile Smith Rowe finding the net just three times, the feeling at Fulham is that another goalscoring is required if Silva can build upon those mid-table foundations.

Fulham warned off Tolu Arokodare with Genk haunted by Southampton deal
Fulham watched Botafogo and Brazil ace Igor Jesus in November, TBR understands.

The £30 million-rated Igor Jesus scored on his Selecao debut recently. And, likening himself to Vinicius Jr and Gabriel Martinelli, would bring to West London the sort of speed and agility lacking with Jimenez in the number nine role.

Fulham also like KRC Genk giant Tolo Arokodare. A very different sort of centre-forward, Arokodare's rangy 6ft 6ins frame makes him a more classic, old-school option in the final third.

But, with ten goals in 16 Belgian top-flight games this season, Arokodare could fit in nicely with service provided by the likes of Antonee Robinson, Harry Wilson and the aforementioned Nelson.

Genk have been here before, however.

Midway through the 2022/23 season, Genk sold Arokodare's predecessor – the similarly sky-scraping Paul Onuachu – in an £18 million deal with Southampton. Genk would go on to miss out on the title by one solitary point while Onuachu ended up suffering relegation at St Mary's.

Two years on, with Arokodare firing Genk into top spot, their head of football Dimitri de Conde is understandably keen to ensure that history does not repeat itself.

Genk boss says Arokodare 'may not leave' amid Craven Cottage links
"The group of players knows that we want to keep everyone together," De Conde tells TVL. "There is no agreement with any player that we will cooperate with a transfer in January if a good offer comes in, which has been the case in the past.

"Tolu may not leave. He is also very grateful to our coach and will not leave [Thorsten] Fink and Genk just like that."

De Conde's words with be music to Fink's ears. The man who has guided Genk five points clear at the top of the Jupiler League believes 'there is no better striker' in the country right now. There is certainly no one more prolific, Arokodare joint-top of the scoring charts.

"Believe me, there is no better striker in Belgium than Tolu," Fink told reporters in August when Turkish giants Trabzonspor were linked. "I really hope we can convince him to stay.

"You won't find a striker with his qualities for under 10 million [euros]."



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-have-southamptons-18m-deal-to-blame-as-director-rules-out-striker-transfer/

Former West Brom, Fulham, and Cardiff City star finally retires at 45
The 82-time Japan international played for West Brom during the early 2000s

Former West Brom midfielder Junichi Inamoto has announced his retirement from professional football.

The 45-year-old confirmed the news on his various social media platforms, which included a graphic which said 'Thank you football,' and included the 12 clubs he played for during his career.

"I have an announcement to make to everyone," he said on Instagram.

"I have decided to retire from my active career at the end of this season!

"I've done it!" is how I honestly feel right now. Being able to continue playing soccer until I was satisfied was the happiest active career I've ever had!

"I've been able to get this far thanks to the clubs I've been a part of, the managers, coaches, players, front staff, sponsors, and the supporters who always pushed me forward!

"I owe it all to the people I've been involved with. Thank you so much! I can't find words other than gratitude!

"If I could, I'd hug each and every one of you. From now on, I'll be starting my second life, but I'll do it while enjoying it in my own way!"

His 27-year playing career will come to an end at the end of the season in Japan. He currently plays for Nankatsu SC who play in the fifth tier of Japanese football.

Inamoto was the first Japanese player to play in the Premier League after joining Arsenal, and later playing for Fulham and West Brom. He was signed from Gamba Osaka for a small fee of £200,000.

He was signed by Gary Megson, but he only lasted until October, and was succeeded by Bryan Robson. Inamoto was loaned out to Cardiff City for the remainder of the season, but played regularly after returning from his loan.

The midfielder ended up making 32 appearances over the space of just over two seasons for the Baggies, before being signed by Turkish giants Galatasaray. He would later play for Eintracht Frankfurt and Rennes, before spending the remainder of his career back in Japan.



https://www.birminghamworld.uk/sport/football/west-brom/junichi-inamoto-west-brom-fulham-cardiff-city-4896271

Fulham vs Brighton & Hove Albion: Preview and Prediction
Fulham and Brighton & Hove Albion will be eager to return to winning ways when they clash at Craven Cottage on Thursday.

Gameweek 14 of the 2024/25 Premier League season will end on Thursday, which will bring us two matches. The action on the day will start with Fulham vs Brighton & Hove Albion at Craven Cottage before Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur bring the curtains down on the latest round of fixtures at the Vitality Stadium.

Marco Silva continues to wield his influence at Fulham, with the West London club unlikely to get dragged into the relegation dogfight. The Cottagers are tenth in the Premier League standings, although Silva will be concerned about his team's defensive frailties. That has led to successive winless results, with the run dropping the side to the cusp of falling out of the top half of the table.

On the other hand, Brighton & Hove Albion have been exceptional thus far this season. Fabian Hurzeler has taken no time to stamp his authority at the club, although his team has showcased mercurial traits on both ends of the pitch. However, the Seagulls have lost only twice thus far this season while rising to fourth in the Premier League standings, level on points with the struggling Manchester City.

The corresponding fixture last season saw Fulham cruise to a 3-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion, with Harry Wilson, Rodrigo Muniz, and Adama Traore finding the back of the net. The Hard Tackle takes a closer look at the encounter ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides.

Team News & Tactics
Fulham
Marco Silva has new roster issues hampering his preparations ahead of his side's latest fixture. The Fulham manager will be bereft of the services of six first-team players vs Brighton & Hove Albion on Thursday.

Tom Cairney and Sasa Lukic are the latest absentees, with the two midfielders serving suspensions. While Cairney saw red and picked up a three-match ban, Lukic's fifth booking of the 2024/25 Premier League season earned him a one-game expulsion. Meanwhile, Joachim Andersen (calf), Jorge Cuenca (knock), Ryan Sessegnon (unspecified), and Harrison Reed (knee) remain on the sidelines.

Bernd Leno is an automatic pick between the sticks, with Fulham lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him vs Brighton & Hove Albion on Thursday. The backline should feature Kenny Tete, Issa Diop, Calvin Bassey, and the in-demand Antonee Robinson.

As for the midfield unit, Cairney and Lukic's absence means Sander Berge will pair up with Andreas Pereira in the double pivot. Emile Smith Rowe will reprise the no. 10 role, with Alex Iwobi and Reiss Nelson starting as the two wide attackers. Finally, Raul Jimenez will lead the line for Fulham against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Berge, Pereira; Iwobi, Smith Rowe, Nelson; Jimenez


Brighton & Hove Albion
Unlike his counterpart in the Fulham dugout, Fabian Hurzeler has greeted a positive update on the team news front ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage. The Brighton & Hove Albion manager should be without five first-team players on Thursday.

Carlos Baleba is available after serving a suspension last this past weekend against Southampton. Hurzeler had been sweating over the fitness of Joel Veltman (knock) and Brajan Gruda (illness), but the duo should be available to take on Fulham. However, Ferdi Kadioglu (ankle), Adam Webster (thigh), Jack Hinshelwood (knee), James Milner (hamstring), and Solly March (knee) remain on the sidelines.

Bart Verbruggen should take his spot between the sticks, with Brighton & Hove Albion lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him vs Fulham on Thursday. The backline should feature Joel Veltman, Jan Paul van Hecke, Lewis Dunk, and Pervis Estupinan.

As for the midfield unit, Carlos Baleba should return to the starting eleven, pairing up with Matt O'Riley in the double pivot. Joao Pedro will reprise the no. 10 role, with Georginio Rutter, Kaoru Mitoma, and Danny Welbeck completing the numbers in the final third.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Veltman, van Hecke, Dunk, Estupinan; Baleba, O'Riley; Rutter, Pedro, Mitoma; Welbeck


Key Stats

    Brighton & Hove Albion have never clinched a win vs Fulham in their eight Premier League meetings (D4 L4). The Seagulls have lost on three of their four top-flight visits to Craven Cottage, the exception being a goalless draw in December 2020.
    Fulham's tally of 19 points is their joint-second highest after 13 games of a Premier League season. They made a similar start in 2022/23 and had 21 points in 2003/04. Similarly, Brighton & Hove Albion's 23 points is their best-ever tally after 13 matches of a top-flight campaign.
    Brighton & Hove Albion are the only team yet to lose when conceding the first goal in Premier League matches this season (W2 D3).
    A goal on Wednesday will mean the Cottagers will have equalled a club record of scoring in 13 successive top-flight matches, which they set 65 years ago. However, they are looking to avoid conceding in 11 consecutive Premier League home fixtures for just a third time in their history.

Player to Watch
Kaoru Mitoma
Fabian Hurzeler is forging a team that does not depend on one player to make an impact in the final third. Danny Welbeck took the Premier League by storm in the first few weeks of the 2024/25 season. While the Englishman's form has dropped in recent outings, Joao Pedro and Kaoru Mitoma have stepped up. We have picked the latter as our Player to Watch.

Mitoma has found the back of the net in the last two outings, with his goals earning Brighton four points. The Japanese international will aim to score in three consecutive Premier League appearances for the first time. Another strike this midweek will likely mean he will have helped the Seagulls earn another positive result.

Prediction
Fulham 2-2 Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton & Hove Albion will be eager to end their duck vs Fulham and clinch their first win over the West London outfit in the Premier League. In addition, Craven Cottage has not been a happy hunting ground for the Seagulls, as they have managed only one point on four visits to the stadium.

With Fulham finding a scoring touch, a goal-laden outing is on the cards. While the visitors are the stronger of the two sides, there might not be much to separate them on Thursday. So, Brighton's win drought at Craven Cottage will continue, with The Hard Tackle predicting a 2-2 draw.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2024/12/04/fulham-vs-brighton-hove-albion-preview-and-prediction-2/

Stockport County battling with Fulham to sign Blackpool midfielder
Premier League side Fulham and League One highflyers Stockport County are leading the race to sign Blackpool starlet Gabriel Schluter in January, according to reports.

The young midfielder has caught the eye for the Seasiders' academy sides recently, which has led to Premier League side, Fulham, reportedly submitting a bid for Schluter's services.

However, Stockport are said to be plotting an ambitious raid of their League One rivals. where they are keen to beat the Cottagers to the line for this deal, after the midfield maestro scored twice for Blackpool against the Hatters in the FA Youth Cup last month.

Fulham keen on raiding Blackpool for teenage talent
16-year-old midfielder Schluter is a wanted man ahead of January, thanks to his impressive season for the Seasiders youth team so far.

After making his senior debut in the EFL Trophy against Liverpool Under-21s last month, Blackpool coach Richard Keogh was full of praise for the club's up-and-coming young players, including Schluter, after making their debuts.

"They've taken on the information really well and have learned from the senior players. They've asked questions, they're inquisitive, they're curious - these are all great things that you want," Keogh said.

This attitude and performance levels have caught the eye of Fulham, who have reportedly already tabled a bid for the midfielder outside of the transfer window.

The London outfit have been monitoring Schluter, and have seen enough to warrant an offer being made. However, another option remains on the table for the 16-year-old, should he wish to remain in the north west.

Stockport County looking into ambitious move to raid League One rivals Blackpool
Whilst it may be a bit of a mismatch, League One Stockport are reportedly also sniffing around Schluter. The youngster impressed County when he bagged a brace at Edgeley Park for Blackpool's under-18's last month.

The Hatters are in the same league as Blackpool currently, though they find themselves in a much better position than Steve Bruce's men.

As Blackpool are yet to give Schluter any further first-team minutes, he could be tempted to jump ship to Stockport and try to earn his way into Dave Challinor's side through that path.

Beating a Premier League side to the 16-year-old's signature could be a real statement of intent from Stockport, as they look to push towards promotion to the Championship.

On the contrary, this would certainly rub salt into Blackpool's wounds by losing one of their brightest young talents to a league rival, especially when you put into perspective that the Seasiders were three divisions above Stockport just a few years ago.

There seems to be no lack of options for Schluter come January, but the midfielder must choose wisely and decide which move would be best for his career progression, if any.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/stockport-county-battling-with-fulham-to-sign-blackpool-gabriel-schluter/

Transfer news: Sunderland handed 32-goal striker hope but Fulham and Wolves are also interested
The Sunderland-linked attacker is yet to be offered a new contract ahead of the transfer window

Sunderland and their rivals have been handed some hope of signing Celtic striker Daniel Cummins.

The Celtic supporter signed his first professional contract during the summer of 2022. Last season, Cummings made his breakthrough in the Lowland League Celtic B team, where he established himself as a prolific goalscorer the following season and has netted 32 times in 43 games.

However, reports have stated that the Scottish Premier League club are yet to offer the 18-year-old highly-rated attacker another contract, with his present deal set to expire this summer. In May 2023, the attacker scored the decider in a 6-5 win against Rangers in the Scottish Youth Cup final, attracting national headlines and has started this season averaging more than a goal per game with the B Team while also playing for Celtic's youth teams in the league and in

Football Insider recently claimed that Wolves, Fulham, Ipswich, Sunderland and Burnley watched Cummings score his fifth goal in five in Europe recently ahead of the January transfer window, with clubs clearly monitoring his contract situation.

The Daily Mail states: "After losing Rocca Vata to Watford and Daniel Kelly to Millwall last summer, Celtic moved to tie up Francis Turley and Colby Donovan on new deals. Despite his prolific scoring and interest from down south, however, Cummings has yet to receive the offer of an extension to stay put and is free to speak to interested clubs from January 1."



https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/transfer-news-sunderland-handed-32-goal-striker-hope-but-fulham-and-wolves-are-also-interested-4896030

"Top confidence player" – Fulham boss Marco Silva lauds Super Eagles star ahead of Brighton clash
Alex Iwobi has been in decent form for Fulham this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists in thirteen league games.

Fulham head coach, Marco Silva, has praised Super Eagles attacking midfielder, Alex Chuka Iwobi for his performance this season, riling him up to come up with the goods in tonight's clash against Brighton and Hove Albion, Soccernet.ng reports.

Iwobi has been in decent form for Fulham this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists in thirteen league games, and is on course to having his best attacking output ever in the English top-flight.

The former Arsenal man scored in Fulham's loss to Wolves and was a provider in their away draw to Tottenham Hotspur, proving his creative strength for the Cottagers.

Speaking ahead of Fulham's clash against Brighton and Hove Albion tonight, the Portuguese manager heaped praise on Iwobi.

    "I call him a happy boy. When you are in a happy place, when you are so positive and people around you are positive, I think good things will come to you. You never see him panic in any moment of the game. He is going to be a top confidence player," the Fulham coach said as revealed by Jack Kelly.

Fulham face Arsenal after their Brighton clash, and Silva revealed it'll be an important clash.

    "About the schedule, the next one is the more important one for us. It's going to be Brighton, and after will come Arsenal. We respect all the teams in the same way.

    Sometimes, if you talk with the football people, with our fans, they expected us to take much more from the Wolves game at home than Tottenham away from home, and the reality in the Tottenham game is we took one point and deserved more, and against Wolves, even if we deserved much more, we didn't take [anything], and football is like that.

    Watch live soccer online

    The Premier League is the best example of what I'm talking about, and we have to be always in our best, we have to reach our certain standards that are important for us," he told the club's official website.

Brighton are currently 5th on the English Premier League table while Fulham are 12th, level on points with Manchester United.



https://soccernet.ng/2024/12/top-confidence-player-fulham-boss-marco-silva-lauds-super-eagles-star-ahead-of-brighton-clash.html

Preview: Fulham vs Brighton where to watch
How to Watch Fulham vs Brighton: TV Channel and Live Stream for Premier League Action

Fulham face another stern challenge as Brighton travel to Craven Cottage in a Premier League clash tonight.

Fulham Eyeing a Leap in the Premier League Table
Marco Silva's Fulham side have an opportunity to climb into sixth place with a win, showcasing just how tightly packed the Premier League table is this season. Currently sitting 12th, a victory would leave them a mere four points off the top four, underlining their impressive start to the campaign.

Fulham's resilience was on full display last time out when they held Tottenham to a draw, despite being reduced to ten men. With Arsenal looming on the horizon, Silva will want his players to channel that determination for another strong result.

Brighton's Quest for Momentum
Brighton arrive in West London with momentum firmly on their side. The Seagulls are unbeaten in three matches and managed a spirited 3-1 victory over Bournemouth at the weekend, even after playing the final 30 minutes a man down.

A win at Craven Cottage would move Brighton just one point behind Manchester City, an enticing prospect for a team that continues to impress under Fabian Hürzeler's management.

Match Details: Where to Watch

    TV Channel: Amazon Prime Video will broadcast the match live. Kick-off is set for 7:30pm GMT.
    Live Stream: Subscribers can catch the action on the Amazon Prime Video website or app.

This showdown promises to be a compelling battle as two dynamic teams vie for crucial Premier League points.



https://eplindex.com/124066/preview-fulham-vs-brighton-where-to-watch.html

Arsenal injury news: Will vital defensive duo Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori return for Gunners against Fulham?
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has said that both Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori are in line to return to the squad for Sunday's Premier League clash with fellow London club Fulham.

Neither Gabriel nor Calafiori featured against Manchester United on Wednesday night, with the pair absent due to issues which were suffered during last weekend's 5-2 success over West Ham United.

There had been concerns over a potential head injury for Gabriel, which could have meant a relatively lengthy period on the sidelines, but Arteta has said that a separate issue forced the Brazilian off at the interval against the Hammers.

Calafiori, meanwhile, had to be replaced in the early stages of the second period at the London Stadium, but the Italian is also in line to return to the matchday squad against Fulham.

"Gabi was a big risk to play today because he felt something against West Ham. Sunday is going to be a possibility with Riccardo as well, let's see how he reacts," Arteta told reporters after the clash with Man United.

Gabriel, Calafiori in line to make Arsenal returns vs. Fulham
Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko came in for starts against Man United, but it was two other defenders - Jurrien Timber and William Saliba - that scored the goals to hand the Gunners a 2-0 success over the Red Devils.

The result moved Arsenal onto 28 points from 14 matches, which has left them in third spot in the Premier League table, level on points with second-placed Chelsea and seven from Liverpool at the summit.

"Very happy. It's a very special night, celebrating 100 games in this incredible stadium against an opponent with so much history between the clubs and the teams," Arteta added on Wednesday night.

"The way we played, especially after tweaking a few things for the second half and how dominant we were, how convincing we were, not really conceding apart from the save from David [Raya] after a very sloppy throw-in, so a lot of positives.

"We don't think at half-time where we are. I think we have to look at our own business, try to perform as we are at the moment and find ways to win the game. I think the team deserves a win again today which is very good and what the opposition does we cannot control that. You can see week in, week out even if teams are winning how difficult it is for everyone."

Arsenal scored twice more from corners against Man United
Arsenal were again a major threat from set pieces against Man United, with both of their goals coming from corners, and Arteta has said that he wants his side to be "very effective from every angle".

"We need that. I think we want to be very dangerous and very effective from every angle and every face of play. We worked on all of that. Today we couldn't score from open play like we did against West Ham, against Sporting [Lisbon], so the team really has belief that from every angle we have the mentality to threaten the opponent and to try to score. Today was two set pieces, we constantly have threatening corners," he added.

"We play with inverted wingers so they develop a lot as well a lot of times inside. There's not a lot of space inside, so when they leave there's a lot of space for the full-back, and for the six and for the nine and now you can go outside, so we need to look at every angle: what they [opponents] do, where they can be weak, and where we can exploit the weakness of the opposition.

"I think last year we scored the most goals in the history of this football club, not because only the set-pieces but because a lot of things that we have. We want to create individual moments, magic moments, a lot of players can create their own goals.

"We can create goals on short counters, long counters, against slow build-ups, when we have to have restarts and the opportunity to open the opposition. Every single phase of play, just maximise it and keep working on it, keep improving."

Arsenal will follow the trip to Fulham with three home games, welcoming Monaco in the Champions League on December 11 before hosting Everton and Crystal Palace in the Premier League in quick succession.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-utd/injury-news/news/gabriel-calafiori-update-will-key-defensive-duo-return-for-arsenal-vs-fulham_559788.html?newsnow

Fulham vs Arsenal early injury news as 6 ruled out and 3 doubts
All the latest injury news surrounding Arsenal and Fulham as they prepare to face off in the Premier League.

Arsenal are back in action on Sunday after they took care of business against Manchester United on Wednesday night. The Gunners produced a big second half performance and once again exploited set-pieces to come out on top and make it four consecutive wins across all competitions.

Meanwhile, Fulham picked up a big point away at Tottenham, with the Cottagers just a point off the top half with a game in hand. Ahead of Sunday's clash at Craven Cottage, we have rounded up all the latest injury news surrounding both teams.

Harrison Reed - Out
Reed has undergone surgery, with Silva saying recently: "Yesterday, he got an injury in his knee, and he'll need surgery there. He should be out for 5-6 weeks."

Tom Cairney - Out (Suspended)
Cairney was sent off against Tottenham and will miss this one through suspension.

Joachim Andersen - Out
Andersen has a calf strain and is not expected to return until next week.

Sasa Lukic - Out (Suspended)
Lukic got a yellow card last time out and has reached the yellow card limit. He will miss out here.

Jorge Cuenca - Doubt
Cuenca is a doubt after missing out last time out. Silva explained: "Jorge got a knock during the week and is going to be out of the game, too."

Ben White - Out
White will likely be out until early spring after undergoing a knee operation. Mikel Arteta said: "Ben is going to be out for months. We had to make a decision in the last few weeks, unfortunately. It got to a point where we had to protect the player, and we decided to do the surgery.'"

Gabriel Magalhaes - Doubt
Gabriel missed the United game but could return this weekend. Arteta said after the game: "Gabi was a big risk to play today because he felt something against West Ham. Sunday is going to be a possibility with Riccardo as well, let's see how he reacts. "

Riccardo Calafiori - Doubt
The same as above applies for Calafiori as he looks to return to action from a muscular complaint.

Takehiro Tomiyasu - Out
Tomiyasu remains out after suffering a setback in his knee injury. Arteta has said: "Tomiyasu is going to be out for a bit. He's going away for a few weeks to change his environment because it's been really tough for him. We're going to give him the best opportunity to try and unlock something, but I think we need to be patient."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/arsenal/fulham-arsenal-early-injury-news-4896630

Before The Whistle: Fulham v Brighton and Hove Albion

This'll be an interesting game.

On one hand, we're Brighton's top flight bogey team. They've not beaten us in eight outings in the Premier League – and what's more, we've won four of those.

But on the other hand, the Seagulls are flying (as they often are) and come to the Cottage fifth in the table. And, well, it's Fulham, isn't it?

Marco has a selection headache in the middle of the park. Andreas Pereira is shrouded in controversy after his recent comments and subsequent dropping against Spurs, and though Marco hints he'll be back, he doesn't commit to that being on Thursday night.

Then Sasa Lukic is suspended, alongside TC after his red card on the weekend. So, how will this be made up? You can read more from Cameron Donaldson about that, but you can rest assured that Silva will shuffle the deck – and he even hinted at a cameo from 17-year-old Josh King.

Issa Diop will continue at the back alongside Calvin Bassey. The centre-back is enjoying rising stock as he continues to fill in for Joachim Andersen. Silva was full of praise for him in his press conference, and we'll all be hoping for a similarly confident performance on Thursday night.

A good record means nothing when it comes to what happens on the pitch. Three points would see us return to the top half ahead of a dreadful double-header against Arsenal and Liverpool. COYW.

ℹ️ MATCH DETAILS

Kick-Off: Thursday, 7.30PM
Stadium: Craven Cottage
Competition: Premier League
TV Channel (UK): None

🚦 LEAGUE FORM
Fulham: ❌ ⬜ ✅ ✅ ❌ ⬜
Brighton: ✅ ⬜ ❌ ✅ ✅ ⬜

⚖️ MATCH PROBABILITY
Fulham: 43%
Draw: 26%
Brighton: 31%

🥊 MOST RECENT MATCHES
Mar 24: Fulham 3-0 Brighton
Oct 23: Brighton 1-1 Fulham
Feb 23: Brighton 0-1 Fulham
Aug 22: Fulham 2-1 Brighton



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-12-05-before-the-whistle-fulham-v-brighton-and-hove-albion-2/

Arsenal injury updates on Gabriel & Calafiori pre-Fulham clash
Gabriel Magalhaes and Riccardo Calafiori are both in contention to return for Arsenal against Fulham this weekend, after missing Wednesday's match against Manchester United.

Arsenal suffered a blow below kick-off against Manchester United on Wednesday, with news breaking that neither Gabriel Magalhaes nor Riccardo Calafiori would be fit to make the squad.

The two players were at least in attendance, but the Gunners had to rely on Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko filling in against Ruben Amorim's side.

Fortunately, Mikel Arteta's team came away with the three points anyway, with the other two members of the back four – Jurrien Timber and William Saliba – scoring the goals in a 2-0 victory.

The question now is whether Arteta will have to call on Kiwior and Zinchenko again for the Fulham match at the weekend.

Speaking after the Manchester United game, Arteta explained that it would have been a risk to play Gabriel, but he added that Sunday's game is a possibility for the Brazilian and Calafiori.

"Gabi was a big risk to play today because he felt something against West Ham," Arteta said. "Sunday is going to be a possibility, with Riccardo as well, let's see how he reacts."

It's encouraging at least that neither player has been ruled out of the Fulham match at this stage, despite the game being just a few days away. With any luck, that means their knocks aren't too serious.

Arsenal had a similar situation in the previous game, with Mikel Merino and Thomas Partey both missing out on the squad to face West Ham United through injury, before returning for the following match.

Perhaps it's simply a case of the Arsenal medical team showing an abundance of caution, knowing how congested the upcoming schedule is. If the team can keep picking up three points anyway, it was the right call not to take the risk.

Fulham will have a couple of absentees of their own, with Reiss Nelson ineligible against his parent club and captain Tom Cairney suspended.

As for who else might be available, Fulham's match against Brighton on Thursday night should give us some clues.



https://dailycannon.com/2024/12/arsenal-injury-latest-gabriel-calafiori/

Fulham vs Arsenal: Latest team news, predicted lineup and injuries
Arsenal make the short trip across the capital this weekend to take Fulham as they look to keep pace with Liverpool a the top of the Premier League.

Wednesday's 2-0 win over Manchester United saw the Gunners move to within seven points of the summit with Liverpool dropping points away to Newcastle United.

Mikel Arteta was without both Gabriel Magalhaes and Riccardo Calafiori midweek with Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko replacing them.

The absences of their two towering defends was not felt with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet and Jurrien Timber and William Saliba stepping in to punish United on some more set piece magic.

Speaking after the game, Arteta confirmed neither player was dealing with a serious injury, hopeful both will be available for the game at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain unavailable but the rest of the Gunners squad is in good shape as the busy festive period begins to kick into gear.

Thomas Partey and Mikel Merino missed last weekend's victory over West Ham with the Ghana international playing the full 90 minutes against United. Merino meanwhile came onto replace Zinchenko for the final 20 minutes.

Arsenal will watch on as Liverpool head to Goodison Park to take on Everton in the Merseyside derby in Saturday's early kick-off.


A defeat for Arne Slot's side would give the Gunners the chance to close the gap at the top to just four points.

Predicted Arsenal XI to face Fulham
Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Odegaard, Partey, Rice, Saka, Havertz, Martinelli

Where to watch Fulham vs Arsenal? Kick off time and TV channel
Fulham vs Arsenal kicks off at 2pm on Sunday 8 December.

The match will be available to watch live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event. Subscribers can also live stream the match on Sky Go and NOW TV.



https://metro.co.uk/2024/12/05/fulham-vs-arsenal-latest-team-news-predicted-lineup-injuries-22128178/?ito=newsnow-feed

Wilson nominated for Premier League Goal of the Month
Harry Wilson's instinctive equaliser against Brentford has been nominated for the Premier League's Guinness Goal of the Month award.

Fulham looked set for defeat against our rivals, despite our domination, as we entered stoppage time, until Wilson ran across his man and sent an audacious first time flick high over the goalkeeper and inside the far post.


Comparisons to Clint Dempsey's and Denis Odoi's goals at the same end were made, and it was a strike which set up a grandstand finish which saw Wilson win the game in the most dramatic way.

He faces competition from Leif Davis, Mohamed Salah, Matheus Cunha, Alejandro Garnacho and Emerson. Voting is open from now until 12pm on Monday, with the winner announced next Friday.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/december/05/wilson-nominated-for-premier-league-goal-of-the-month/

Fulham vs Brighton match preview: Fabian Hurzeler says 'stop this statistic'
Brighton and Hove Albion haven't won against Fulham in their eight Premier League meetings, will that change tonight?

Albion take on Fulham at Craven Cottage tonight at 7.30 pm (Thursday, December 5).

Brighton's previous fixture saw them feature in a 1-1 draw against Southampton, who sit rock bottom of the Premier League.

Fabian Hurzeler's side will be hoping the Friday night game was a blip in Albion's recent fine form as they travel to Craven Cottage tonight.

In the pre-match press conference for the match, the Albion boss was reminded that Fulham are a 'bogey team' for his side. Fulham are unbeaten in all eight Premier League games against Brighton, winning four and drawing four.

In response, Fabian Hurzeler said: "I see this as an opportunity to stop this statistic and to make it look better for the Brighton fans."

The Seagulls head coach will also have to watch this game in the stands.

The youngest manager in Premier League history is serving a touchline ban following a yellow card and altercation with Southampton boss Russell Martin during and after their 1-1 draw at the Amex Stadium last Friday.

Fabian Hurzeler also commented on this during the press conference, saying: "I had this experience once in the in the Bundesliga. It's not the best experience... It's a fair punishment for me, and I have to learn from it. Honestly, I trust my team. I trust my staff. I have great coaching staff around me."

Can Brighton and Hove Albion defeat Fulham for the first time in the league? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.



https://www.nationalworld.com/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/fulham-vs-brighton-match-preview-fabian-hurzeler-says-stop-this-statistic-4897399

Leno up for Premier League Save of the Month
Bernd Leno's dramatic late stop against Brentford has been nominated for the Premier League's Save of the Month award.

After Harry Wilson had equalised in the second minute of stoppage time, hearts were in mouths when it looked as though it may count for nothing as former Fulham man Fabio Carvalho looked set to restore the Bees' lead.

It was a great chance for the youngster but Leno was out quickly and made himself humongous to narrow the angle and repel Carvalho's effort, with Timothy Castagne and Sander Berge also playing key roles in the immediate aftermath.

https://twitter.com/FulhamFC/status/1864323788147397111

It's a save that will never been underappreciated by those of a Fulham persuasion, as without it we wouldn't have experienced the euphoria of Wilson's winner which followed.

Leno is up against Aaron Ramsdale, Lukasz Fabianski, Mark Flekken, Andre Onana and Mads Hermansen, with voting open from now until 12pm on Monday, and the winner announced next Friday.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/december/05/leno-up-for-premier-league-save-of-the-month/

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler plans to end surprisingly awful Fulham record
Fabian Hurzeler intends to 'stop this statistic' on Thursday night after Brighton's surprisingly bad run against Fulham in the top flight.

The Cottagers host the Seagulls in the Premier League on Thursday, with Fulham hoping to climb back into the top half of the table and Brighton able to get back into the top four with a win.

Brighton bring the better form into the match but Fulham boast a brilliant record against their rivals in the Premier League.

The two clubs have met eight times in the Premier League and Brighton are yet to come away with a victory.

Fulham have won four of those contests with four ending in draws and the most recent a comfortable 3-0 win for the west London side.

Asked about facing a bogey team this week, Hurzeler said: 'I see this as an opportunity to stop this statistic and to make it look better for the Brighton fans.'

Brighton will have to try and pick up that win without their manager on the touchline, though, after Hurzeler picked up a ban for three yellow cards.

'I had this experience once in the Bundesliga,' said the German boss. 'It's not the best experience to be honest, but it's a fair punishment for me and I have to learn from it.

'I trust my [coaching] team. I have two great assistant coaches with Crofty (Andrew Crofts) and Jonas [Scheuermann] who will do a great job.

'I always say when I'm on the sideline that I'm not the main person. It's more of a togetherness. It's not like a one-man show. It will always be about 'we' and not 'I' or 'me.'

'In some moments I'm more emotional and in some moments he (Jonas) is more emotional.'

Hurzeler has been impressed with Fulham and manager Marco Silva, pointing out this team's strengths before his own side face them.

'A very good team. Really good in possession, they have good patterns, they have great individual players who improve every game with and against the ball,' said the Seagulls boss.

'They do everything out of compactness. They try to be aggressive. It's a very small, tight stadium. The pitch is not the biggest so it will be an intense game, a tough game and they're doing great so far.

'Marco Silva has improved the team and the players, and I have a lot of respect for him and for his work and it will be very tough to beat him.'



https://metro.co.uk/2024/12/05/brighton-boss-fabian-hurzeler-plans-end-surprisingly-awful-fulham-record-22129146/?ito=newsnow-feed

Up next: Brighton and Hove Albion (h)
Summarising Sunday's trip to Tottenham Hotspur succinctly is something of a challenge. Marco Silva's side probably outplayed Spurs, a serious achievement after they completely outclassed Manchester City on their own turf, but were punished for failing to score when they were on top – not for the first time this season. Substitutions turned the game around for the Whites, with Tom Cairney curling home an excellent equaliser, but Fulham had to hang on for a point after the skipper was sent off for a terribly, late challenge. The draw was a good return for a dramatic afternoon – but the Cottagers will need to step up their game to take on Brighton and Hove Albion at Craven Cottage this evening.

Fabian Hürzeler has enjoyed a fantastic start since becoming the Premier League's youngest ever permanent first team coach at the start of the season. The Seagulls have only suffered two league defeats this term and they have already surprised several of the division's top sides with some stylish performances. Albion orchestrated a superb second half fightback to come from behind to beat Spurs at home and they have also beaten both Manchester City and Manchester United in a start to the campaign that has the Seagulls only just two points off second place.

Albion have quickly become one of the most watchable outfits in the division and a revitalised Danny Welbeck is in the form of his life. The England international is enjoying his best spell since moving to the south coast on a free transfer four years ago, having already hit six goals this term. Welbeck is now just once short of the Albion record for the Premier League held by Pascal Gross. Hürzeler hinted during his press conference prior to the trip to London that the experienced Welbeck has become something of a role model – and you can certainly see the in-form forward as a popular member of the Albion squad.

The Seagulls have several outstanding performers that Silva's side will need to keep an eye on this evening. They are led by the superb Lewis Dunk, who has just amassed 250 top-flight appearances and is a club legend having led the Albion back to the promised land of the Premier League, whilst the outstanding Carlos Baleba has the potential to become a leading midfielder. James Milner and Solly March have been there, seen in and done it in the engine room, whilst former Fulham academy graduate Matt O'Riley has made a magnificent start since arriving at the AMEX – including scoring the winner against Manchester City. Albion have plenty of firepower in the final third beside Welbeck, including the Japanese winger Karou Mitoma and former Leeds forward Georginio Rutter.

Outstanding right back Tariq Lamptey is reportedly fit again despite recent injury problems and Joel Veltman could return to the matchday squad, too, although Hürzeler will serve his one-game touchline suspension. Hinshelwood, March, Milner and Adam Webster and Ferdi Kadioglu are all out with injuries – but Brighton are certain to provide a stern test for their hosts this evening.

Silva has something of a midfield selection dilemma with both Cairney and Sasa Lukic banned. The Fulham head coach might have to mix and match in the engine room with Harrison Reed out for around another month with a knee complaint. He may have to reintroduce Andreas Pereira to the deeper midfield role after dropping him for the trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium following the Brazilian international's wantaway comments last week hinting at a possible January move to Marseille. Centre back Joachim Andersen remains sidelined with the calf strain that saw him come off early against Wolves, but Jorge Cuenca should be available to return to the bench.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Diop, Bassey; Berge, Pereira; Nelson, Iwobi, Smith Rowe; Jimenez. Subs: Benda, Castagne, Cuenca, Sessegnon, King, Wilson, Traore, Sekularac, Muniz.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/12/up-next-brighton-and-hove-albion-h-4/

Fulham front-runners to sign Gabriel Schluter
Fulham are leading the race for Blackpool's teenage sensation Gabriel Schluter, as the League One side could expect an approach in January.

According to Football Insider, Fulham are focused on strengthening their youth sides and building a stronger foundation in the background. The Cottagers are linked with a host of young prospects for the younger sides, with Blackpool's Gabriel Schluter the latest name on their list.

Blackpool may have one of the top young talents on their hands as Gabriel Schluter is making headlines with some impressive displays for the club. Steve Bruce handed the 16-year-old English wonderkid his debut recently, but he has yet to play for the senior team since.

In any case, the lower-league club are not in a rush to make him play regularly, although they may be wary of the interest coming in from many clubs. For starters, fellow League One side Stockport County are reportedly very keen to land the midfield sensation. However, the big interest might be coming from the Premier League, as Fulham are eager to land the 16-year-old English wonderkid.

The Cottagers are an exciting prospect for any player playing in the lower leagues, and while he could get regular minutes at the likes of Stockport County, Schluter might not reject the opportunity to join Fulham. Such is the lure of the Premier League, and Fulham could make an approach for the teenager ahead of January.

The details pertaining to a potential departure from Blackpool still need to be clarified in terms of the compensation required to take Schulter, among other things. However, Fulham want the Blackpool teenager to head to their youth sides and continue his development there, towards building himself to become a big star of the future.

Fulham keen on strengthening youth ranks
Fulham are monitoring many other young prospects from all around, such as Celtic teenager Daniel Cummings, a player of interest to the West London club. The Scottish youngster, as well as Blackpool's Gabriel Schluter, are considered players on the verge of breaking into the first team in the near future, with the club seemingly identifying them as highly rated talents.

In any case, there will be more players linked as things progress, as Fulham, much like many of their Premier League colleagues, are eager to build a strong youth foundation in the background. They are also looking at potential bonafide first-team stars in January, but the prospect of strengthening their youth ranks will serve them better for the long-term future.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/12/05/fulham-front-runners-to-sign-gabriel-schluter/#google_vignette

Fulham v Brighton & Hove Albion

Team news
Fulham are without suspended midfielders Tom Cairney and Sasa Lukic.

Joachim Andersen and Harrison Reed remain sidelined but Jorge Cuenca could return from the injury which caused him to miss Sunday's draw at Tottenham.

Brighton welcome back Carlos Baleba after suspension, while Kaoru Mitoma and Yasin Ayari have both recovered from knocks and Joel Veltman could be available too.

James Milner, Adam Webster, Ferdi Kadioglu and Jack Hinshelwood all remain out. Solly March may return before Christmas after more than a year's absence because of a serious knee injury.

Match stats
Head-to-head

    Brighton have never beaten Fulham in their eight Premier League meetings (D4, L4).

    The Seagulls have lost on three of their four top-flight visits to Craven Cottage, the exception being a goalless draw in December 2020.

    Last season, the Cottagers were 3-0 winners of this fixture with goals from Harry Wilson, Rodrigo Muniz and Adama Traore.

Fulham

    Fulham's tally of 19 points is their joint-second highest after 13 games of a Premier League season. They made a similar start in 2022-23 and had 21 points in 2003-04.

    The Cottagers could equal a club record of scoring in 13 successive top-flight matches, set 65 years ago.

    However, they are looking to avoid conceding in 11 consecutive Premier League home fixtures for just a third time in their history.

    Fulham could both score and concede in each of their opening seven home league games for the first time since the 1950-51 campaign.

    Harry Wilson has scored two goals and provided two assists in his last four Premier League appearances against Brighton.

Brighton & Hove Albion

    Brighton's 23 points is their best-ever tally after 13 matches of a top-flight season.

    The Seagulls are aiming to win a fourth away league game, which would equal their total for the whole of 2023-24.

    They could earn consecutive away league victories for the first time since September last year.

    Albion are the only team yet to lose when conceding the first goal in Premier League matches this season (W2, D3).

    Danny Welbeck is one short of equalling Pascal Gross as Brighton's 30-goal leading Premier League scorer.

    Kaoru Mitoma could score in three consecutive Premier League appearances for the first time.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/live/c99x0100k7dt