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Fulham boss Marco Silva fumes at reporter after Virgil van Dijk's referee jibe
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk claimed that referee Tony Harrington was 'nervous' during the Reds' dramatic 2-2 draw with Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday
Fulham boss Marco Silva snapped back at a reporter's question following their controversial 2-2 draw with 10-man Liverpool.
The visitors took an early lead at Anfield through Andreas Pereira, who was fortunate to escape a red card just a few minutes prior. Team-mate Issa Diop also ran the risk of getting sent off but it was Liverpool's Andy Robertson who was shown the only red card of the game after bringing down Harry Wilson.
Liverpool got themselves level just after half-time through Cody Gakpo but Rodrigo Muniz restored Fulham's lead late on. Diogo Jota then came off the bench to score an 86th-minute equaliser and rescue a draw. Post-match, Reds captain Virgil van Dijk made the claim that referee Tony Harrington was 'nervous' throughout the dramatic encounter.
During an interview with Premier League Productions, Fulham boss Silva was asked about the challenges from Pereira and Diop - and he wasn't happy. "And the fouls from Liverpool, they are not close to red cards, no?" the Portuguese replied.
"I didn't see these moments, but you have all of them. If I go inside, I can probably give you some more 50/50 decisions from the referee, but you have two [tackles from Diop and Pereira]. If you go through the whole game, you are going to see 50/50s against them, for sure.
"I want to talk about the game, but if you are asking me about two 50/50 moments, we are going to be here all afternoon. It's better to talk about the game. It's tough to play at Anfield and I think our guys did really well.
"The first 20 minutes [was played] at a very good level, 11 versus 11. The red card [to Robertson] had an impact on the game and Liverpool with their quality and bravery reacted really strong.
"Liverpool can complain about the red card, since it's a foul [by Robertson], it should be a red card. I can complain about the first goal that they scored because the foul on Kenny [Tete]."
Van Dijk's comments also raised eyebrows, as the Liverpool defender told Sky Sports: "I had conversations with the players of Fulham and we felt like the referee was nervous. He couldn't properly communicate with Robertson I felt. We can't put the blame on the referee.
"We all speak about protecting the referee but I couldn't speak to him. It shouldn't be a big thing because he isn't why we dropped points. It is what it is. We take the points, recover quickly and be ready for the game on Wednesday."
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/fulham-silva-virgil-vandijk-liverpool-34316499
Man Of The Match Result: LiverpoolAntonee Robinson has been voted Fulham's Man of the Match after providing two assists in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
First, he found Andreas Pereira at the back post to put the Whites 1-0 up, before squeezing a ball through to Rodrigo Muniz when his side retook the lead in the second-half.
Our USA international now has six assists in total for the season, leaving him just one away from equalling his 2023/24 tally.
(https://images.webapi.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1400x1400/9c743f50-bad1-11ef-8fd3-d5d54bee6f67.png)
Jedi romped home with 75.99 per cent of the vote, while Jorge Cuenca came second (10.44%) on his first Premier League start, and his centre-back partner Issa Diop placed third (4.15%).
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/december/15/man-of-the-match-result-liverpool/
Marco: Jedi's brilliant, unbelievable performance
Marco Silva heaped praise on Antonee Robinson after a sensational performance from the left-back away at Liverpool.
Our Man of the Match assisted for both Fulham's goals in the 2-2 draw, and handled the home side's attacking threats superbly throughout the 90 minutes.
"What a performance," Marco said post-match. "It's really difficult to find one moment where he wasn't at a really high level.
"Not easy to come here playing against a player like (Mo) Salah, the way normally they like to expose the left-back.
"We took that risk, to go one-v-one, many times. He was so brave, he was so assertive, he was so aggressive in the right way and he did it so, so well.
While Jedi is currently enjoying his fifth season in SW6, our gaffer's relationship with him goes back to when they shared time at Everton.
"He's improving so, so quick in some things. I know him very well from Everton, but the way he's improving in some set-ups, defensive set-ups, being much more brave in the way he faces one-v-one situations, the way he goes inside the spaces as well.
"And of course, again, two assists form a full-back at Anfield shows the quality that he has. I remember some seasons ago, even last season, many people were talking about his decision making, but already he's the player from our team with more assists for sure.
"Being clear, what a performance from him. What a performance. Brilliant, unbelievable performance from him, and I told him at the end of the game that he has to be really proud."
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/december/15/marco-jedi-brilliant-unbelievable-performance/
Fulham star Antonee Robinson likes Instagram comments suggesting he should join Liverpool after 2-2 draw
Liverpool came from behind twice to draw 2-2 at home against Fulham, with Antonee Robinson the star of the show at Anfield.
The USA international assisted Andreas Pereira and Rodrigo Munez as Robinson caused havoc for the Reds down the left-hand side, with Trent Alexander-Arnold slammed by Damien Delaney for his Liverpool performance.
With Robinson linked with a move to Liverpool as a potential replacement for Andy Robertson, the former Everton defender more than gave a good account for himself at Anfield, with Chris Sutton also praising the Fulham fullback for his performance on Merseyside.
And Robinson has now seemingly hinted that he wants to join Liverpool after some activity on social media.
Robinson likes Instagram comments urging him to join Liverpool
Robinson uploaded a post-match Instagram post after Fulham's draw with Liverpool, with teammates and fans leaving comments for the 27-year-old defender after an exceptional performance at Anfield with the Cottagers.
Yet eagle-eyed Liverpool fans noticed that Robinson had liked posts from Liverpool fans urging the defender to make the move to Arne Slot's side, with one liked comment saying: "Anfield suits you," whilst the USA international also reacted to a Red fan saying: "Sign for us fella."
With Andy Robertson getting sent off early for Liverpool despite being praised by Slot, Robinson passed his potential dress rehearsal for the Anfield side with flying colours, with fans and pundits impressed by what they saw from the Milton Keynes-born talent.
And Robinson liking comments suggesting he should move to Liverpool is a big boost for the Merseyside giants in their quest to sign a replacement for Robertson, with the USA international an ideal option after this weekend's performance.
Robinson showed exactly why Liverpool need to sign him next summer
Liverpool are interested in signing a left-back heading into 2025, with Robertson's incredible tenure in the position finally coming to an end with Kostas Tsimikas not having the fitness levels to fully replace the Scottish international.
Yet Red supporters saw on Saturday why Robinson is the perfect defender to take on the mantle that will be left by Robertson one day, with the USA international the best player on the pitch at Anfield this weekend by some distance.
Indeed, Robinson himself seems to back himself as a Liverpool player, and with the Reds likely to spend big on a new left-back in 2025, the Fulham fullback is the perfect signing for Slot's team next year.
https://www.rousingthekop.com/2024/12/15/fulham-star-antonee-robinson-likes-instagram-comments-suggesting-he-should-join-liverpool-after-2-2-draw/
Antonee Robinson lit up Anfield – but he shouldn't be Liverpool's next left-back
Saturday's battle of the Robbos had one clear winner, but suggestions Liverpool's ideal left-back signing was playing for Fulham ignore one big flaw.
For some, seeing Andy Robertson line up against Antonee Robinson represented the present and future of Arne Slot's left flank; the visiting full-back held up as an ideal replacement.
The two ARs only reinforced that belief as Robertson was sent off after just 17 minutes and Robinson produced another display of ferocious attacking power that saw him assist both of Fulham's goals.
It was Robinson's lofted cross for Andreas Pereira which was deflected beyond Alisson via Robertson's knee for 1-0, before the USA international easily ghosted past Jarell Quansah to deliver a cutback for Rodrigo Munez's flick to make it 2-1 late on.
No player contested (14) or won (eight) more duels than Fulham's No. 33, who also created the most chances (four) for either side and touched the ball more times than any other visiting player (60) per FotMob.
"What a performance," was Fulham manager Marco Silva's reaction.
"It was difficult to express in words the performance this afternoon – again, it's not the first time.
"I know that he's a player that if I have to play again in two or three days' time, he's going to be ready again.
"He's a great athlete, but the way he's been improving in our defensive process, some defensive setups, he's always open-minded to learn and he's been improving.
"And of course, in attack, he's already the full-back with the most assists from open play in the Premier League. Last season he was as well.
"It shows the way he's been improving, because a player that arrives so many times there, he has to be decisive and I think this season he's showing more of that.
"But as well, playing against Salah, a lot of situations one-vs-one, the way he was brave, the way he was assertive and aggressive in the right way, with a yellow card from 25, 30 minutes into the game, even so always really aggressive in a good way.
"Up and down every single time, what a performance.
"For me, he's a great example, one of the greatest in our dressing room. The way he works, the way he's been playing, he's been brilliant for us and we are really pleased to have him."
A model professional, league-leading in his output and now proven up against a player widely considered the best in the world in his position in Mohamed Salah – Silva seemed to be making quite the pitch for interested parties.
But the Portuguese was quick to downplay any suggestions that Robinson could leave Fulham in the January transfer window.
"I don't want to speak too much about him, because I know this coming January there's going to be the same story about Robinson," he insisted.
"Really I don't want to go in that direction. Robinson is really focused in the way he wants to work and behave and let's keep him as focused as we can."
Too late, perhaps. Of course, clubs who are likely to take a punt on Fulham's only outfield ever-present this season will already be well aware of what he can offer.
Those qualities will be appreciated within Liverpool's recruitment setup, but despite Robinson outshining Robertson at Anfield, there is little chance the Reds will pursue a deal for him.
No, not because he came through Everton's academy – more for the fact that, come August next year, Robinson will turn 28 and would, if he joined, be one of the oldest players in Slot's current squad.
https://www.thisisanfield.com/2024/12/antonee-robinson-lit-up-anfield-but-he-shouldnt-be-liverpools-next-left-back/
Ex-Portsmouth, Fulham and Manchester City man Kit Symons: I was promised an England cap - despite already playing for Wales
Kit Symons has revealed how he was once 'guaranteed' an England cap - despite having played 15 times for Wales.
The classy central defender racked up 205 appearances for Pompey, in addition to making his international debut for The Dragons at the age of 20.
However, by 1995 he was weighing up his Blues future following the departure of Jim Smith and put in touch with colourful agent Eric 'Monster, monster' Hall to potentially represent him in a transfer.
According to Symons in new book Played Up Pompey Four, the Fratton Park meeting with the flamboyant cigar-chomping character didn't exactly go according to plan.
Mainly through Hall's promise that the 24-year-old would receive England recognition if he agreed to sign up as his client.
'Terry Fenwick was open to selling me, sensing the opportunity to raise funds to build his own Pompey team. After all, I was Jim Smith's boy,' Symons told Played Up Pompey Four.
'Not only was our new manager perfectly happy for me to go, but since Jim's sacking in February 1995, I was also reasonably willing to leave.
'Within six weeks of Fenwick's arrival, he arranged for me to have a chat with his agent, the late Eric Hall, which turned out to be one of the funniest conversations in the world.
'Following a 3-2 win over Millwall at Fratton Park, Eric asked if we could go somewhere quiet and, with me wanting to stir it up a bit, I suggested the corner of an executive lounge, knowing it would be packed, with everyone looking over.
'So there he was, saying: "Kidda, kidda, and I can guarantee you a monster, monster move to a monster, monster club for monster, monster money". I was "Yeah, yeah right".
'He continued: "Kidda, kidda, and I can guarantee you an England cap". I replied: "No Eric, I don't think so. You can't". When he asked why, I pointed out that I had already played 15 times for Wales!
'He told himself off by repeating "Schmuck, schmuck" and I thought to myself: "Mate, you don't even know who I am. You're just here for a quick buck".
'Well, after that meeting he didn't become my agent, although my 13-year association with the Blues was nearing its end.
'The aim had been to reach the Premier League with Pompey under Jim Smith, yet, when it became apparent that would never happen, it was clear I needed to move away to achieve my ambition.'
Symons, who went on to total 36 Wales caps, eventually left Pompey for Manchester City in August 1995 in a deal valued at £1.8m, with the Blues receiving £900,000 plus Fitzroy Simpson and Carl Griffiths in part exchange
And the Hall of Famer still regrets not achieving Pompey success under Smith after losing the 1992 FA Cup semi-finals and the 1992-93 Division One play-off semi-finals.
He added: 'Now I'm not one for regrets, but I look back on that era and think what could have been. We should have gone up automatically that season.
'We had lost in an FA Cup semi-final and then, the following year, missed out on automatic promotion to the Premier League on goals scored, with West Ham United instead claiming second place.
'We had finished 12 points ahead of Leicester City, out of sight, yet were now meeting them in the semi-finals of the Division One play-offs. It was still in the early days of the play-off format and I remember thinking what a load of rubbish the idea was.
'Later in my career, I finished sixth with Crystal Palace and we reached the Premier League by beating West Ham in the 2004 Championship play-off final, so it evens itself.'
https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/sport/football/portsmouth-fc/ex-portsmouth-fulham-and-manchester-city-man-kit-symons-i-was-promised-an-england-cap-despite-already-playing-for-wales-4910000
Crystal Palace, Everton, Fulham learn Ernest Nuamah asking price
Ernest Nuamah is back on the radar of Premier League sides as Fulham and Crystal Palace learn the winger's asking price ahead of January.
According to Caught Offside, Ernest Nuamah is a player of interest to the likes of Crystal Palace and Fulham ahead of January. The Ligue 1 attacker wants to leave Lyon after irregular game time this season, as the French side want a fee between €25-30 million to sell the winger.
Everton have been linked with a move for the player as well. They could certainly use more quality and the depth in the attack and it remains to be seen whether they can get a deal done.
One might remember Ernest Nuamah for being close to making a late move to the Premier League back in the summer window. There were a few clubs interested in him, as Everton were interested late in that window, while Fulham also made a late attempt to sign the winger.
Both those sides failed to sign the Ligue 1 attacker, as he remained at Lyon, where he had spent the previous season on loan. Nuamah is not happy at how things have panned out for him at Lyon, as the winger is not satissfied with the minutes he's getting in the side.
He could be open to leaving Lyon in January as interest ramps up from Premier League sides. Fulham and Crystal Palace are keen ahead of the winter market, as Lyon want a fee between €25-30 million to sell the Ligue 1 attacker. Neither of those teams are eager to pay as much for the winger, as the report also suggests these clubs could explore a loan option to sign Nuamah.
Palace, who are eager to prioritise a winger in January as they continue to look for the right replacement for Michael Olise. Fulham, on the other hand, are enjoying a stellar season and could look to revitalise their squad with a new attacker, as Marco Silva targets an European finish.
Lyon are desperate to sell players
Lyon were handed a provisional relegation to Ligue 2 recently, as this decision is pending on the club's ability to balance their finances. Hence, some sales will be seen as imperative to improve their current situation, as the club might be open to selling some of their key players, including Rayan Cherki and Nuamah.
Their demand for €25-30 million might prove difficult in order to find a market solution for a player like Nuamah, although a sale at a lower price could be on the cards. Nuamah's numbers this season are underwhelming, yet he offers something that the likes of Fulham or Palace lack in their squad.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/12/16/crystal-palace-everton-fulham-learn-ernest-nuamah-asking-price/
Marco Silva clarifies Antonee Robinson stance as Liverpool's Milos Kerkez 'interest' explained
Liverpool has been mentioned as possible future destinations for Antonee Robinson and Milos Kerkez
Fulham manager Marco Silva was reluctant to heap too much praise on Antonee Robinson after his impressive performance in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Liverpool as the January transfer window is just around the corner.
Former Everton trainee Robinson, 27, impressed for the second consecutive season at Anfield as he assisted goals for Andreas Pereira and Rodrigo Muniz either side of half time.
But despite being tied down to a contract at Craven Cottage until 2028, performances like those of Saturday afternoon have resulted in the United States international often being linked with a move to the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool.
Speaking in his post-match press conference at Anfield, Silva insisted Robinson is one of the best in his position in the Premier League but admitted he is aware that too much praise could attract interest from other clubs in next month's transfer window.
"You are asking a Fulham manager but of course I am going to say yes," replied Silva when asked if Robinson was one of the Premier League's best left-backs. "I don't want to talk too much about him because I know in January the same story is going to follow about Robinson. I don't want to go in that direction.
"He's really focused in the way he plays, so let's keep him like that. It's crucial for us. If he's the best or not, that's not for me to decide, my players are always the best!"
Silva, who first crossed paths with Robinson during their shared time at Goodison Park, added: "Even when I arrived at Fulham four seasons ago, the way he has improved off the ball has been exceptional.
"If you create the right areas for him, he is going to be decisive going forward. Going up and down is not easy for any winger to follow him the way he plays, but also he has improved in his defensive set-up. He's open-minded to learn and is a player who is always ready for us because he's a great athlete."
Meanwhile, it has been reported that Liverpool are unlikely to make a move for Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez in next month's window.
Like Robinson, Hungary international Kerkez has been linked with a move to Anfield in recent months, with Andy Robertson's recent struggles - and Kostas Tsimikas' injury lay-off - raising the question as to whether the Reds need to strengthen in that particular department.
However, journalist David Lynch has cooled speculation that Kerkez could swap Bournemouth for Liverpool as soon as next month.
Lynch suggested that reports Liverpool are ready to pull the trigger on a move for the 21-year-old are wide of the mark, adding he would be "surprised" if the player was to move to Anfield in the New Year.
Kerkez joined the Cherries from AZ Alkmaar in 2023 and has since made over 40 appearances for Andoni Iraola's side.
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/marco-silva-clarifies-antonee-robinson-30593509
Antonee Robinson posts 31-year first for a USMNT star as buccaneering Fulham defender emulates Roy Wegerle
Fulham star Antonee Robinson has put up a first in 31 years by a USMNT player as he emulated Roy Wegerle with two assists against Liverpool.
Fulham hold Liverpool to 2-2 draw
Robinson gets two assists in clash
First USMNT star to do so in 31 years
WHAT HAPPENED?
Fulham were able to hold heavy favourites Liverpool to a 2-2 draw at Anfield. Marco Silva's side opened the scoring via Andreas Pereira's strike from a Robinson assist to give Fulham a lead into the break. Cody Gakpo equalized for the Reds before Fulham put themselves ahead again via Rodrigo Muniz after he latched onto Robinson's ball. However, the Cottagers eventually lost their lead with Diogo Jota levelling late in the clash.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Robinson's two assists in Fulham's 2-2 draw with Arne Slot's Liverpool has made him the first USMNT star to gather multiple assists in a single Premier League clash since Wegerle did the same with Coventry City against Arsenal in August 1993, as per OptaJack.
WHAT SILVA SAID
Speaking to the club media, Silva said post-match: "He [Robinson] is improving so, so quick in some things. I know him very well from Everton, but the way he's improving in some set-ups, defensive set-ups, being much more brave in the way he faces one-on-one situations, and the way he goes inside the spaces as well.
"And of course, again, two assists from a full-back at Anfield shows the quality that he has. I remember some seasons ago, even last season, many people were talking about his decision-making, but already he's the player from our team with more assists for sure.
"Being clear, what a performance from him. What a performance. Brilliant, unbelievable performance from him, and I told him at the end of the game that he has to be really proud."
WHAT NEXT FOR ROBINSON?
The USMNT star has been on top form since the start of the season for Fulham and will be a starter again when the Cottagers take on Southampton on Sunday.
https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/antonee-robinson-posts-31-year-first-for-a-usmnt-star-as-buccaneering-fulham-defender-emulates-roy-w/blt8ad1fdd4fbb381dc?utm_id=fa3iys5y8hyz9ezk&utm_source_platform=newsnow#cs3928552a26ea32e2