Statement on Brentford away allocation
As we stated at the time, we raised our concerns about the Club's stated intention to reward participants in the Fulham Football Club Foundation's 'Riverside Run' with tickets to the away fixture at Brentford last month, as an urgent matter outside our schedule of monthly meetings.
The Trust wholeheartedly supports the award-winning work of the Fulham FC Foundation and their attempts to raise funds, but we strongly disagree with using access to away games for this purpose.
We were clearly told any tickets used by the Foundation would come from a separate club pool with no impact on the away allocation offered to Fulham Football Club season ticket holders and members. We relayed this to members in our newsletter on 23 February, and it was also publicly confirmed by the Club.
Following further concerns raised by our fans on social media today, we are now seeking urgent clarification on whether that was still the case when the tickets went on sale on Monday. We will update you as soon as we hear from the Club.
We will never hesitate to speak to the Club and argue for the interests of our fans, but ultimately it's up to them to decide.
If Fulham fans want us to achieve more, the best thing you can do is to join the Trust to put us in a stronger position in future talks.
https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2026/03/statement-on-brentford-away-allocation/
Fabrizio Romano: Tottenham Hold Talks to Appoint 'Genius' Manager in Recent Days
Tottenham have held talks in recent days about potentially appointing Fulham boss Marco Silva as their next manager, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Spurs are having a season of nightmares so far and currently sit just one point above the relegation zone following a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend, with current interim manager Igor Tudor yet to pick up a win since replacing Thomas Frank, and now facing the sack before the end of the campaign.
The north London side are looking for replacements to help preserve their Premier League status, but also know they need to find someone to step in permanently next season and ensure that they aren't in the same position again, which has led them to look at a previous target.
Tottenham Hold Talks Over Marco Silva Move
Silva, who has been described as a 'genius', was strongly linked with a move to become Spurs manager last summer before the club instead opted to bring in Frank.
The Portuguese manager instead stayed at Fulham, and the Cottagers are currently pushing to qualify for Europe, as they sit ninth in the top-flight and just five points behind the Champions League places.
Now Romano, in a late night update on his YouTube channel, has revealed that Tottenham chiefs have once again brought up the idea of bringing Silva to the club as their next manager in recent days.
"In terms of names appreciated by Tottenham, I wanted to bring to the table, as an exclusive update tonight, the name of Marco Silva," he said.
"Fulham manager Marco Silva has a release clause in his contract, and is a name being mentioned internally at Tottenham in recent days. Marco Silva did a very good job at Fulham in recent years, has been on the Tottenham list before Thomas Frank last summer. Now Marco Silva has been discussed again internally at Tottenham.
"Lets see with De Zerbi, with Silva, what they decide to do with his job for present and especially for future because with Tudor, lets see what happens now, but for sure he's not staying beyond this season, even if Tottenham don't get relegated."
Silva Due a Chance at Top Level
Having been brilliant during his time with Fulham, Silva has proved himself as a top manager and is now surely due an opportunity at a club competing at the top level.
Tottenham will feel they can offer that, and with his current deal at Craven Cottage set to expire this summer, it's an easy deal to do.
De Zerbi and Pochettino are the frontrunners still, but Silva is also Premier League-proven and will be hungry to make that step up, so he could be the perfect appointment.
https://www.givemesport.com/tottenham-hold-talks-marco-silva-fabrizio-romano-update/
Notes from our March meeting with Fulham FC
On Wednesday 11th March 2026 at 13.35, the Fulham Supporters' Trust (FST) met with Fulham FC via video conference.
The Club was represented by:
Alistair Mackintosh (Chief Executive, AM)
David Daly (Non-Executive Director, DD)
Darren Preston (Chief Operating Officer, DP)
Carmelo Mifsud (Communications Director, CM
Jack Burrows, Marketing Director (JB)
Jamie Nicholson (Head of Supporter Services, JN)
Jane Woods (Head of Ticketing, JW)
John D'arcy (Head of Safety)
Nicola Walworth (Supporter Relations Manager)
Glen Sutton (Fulham Pier, GS)
The FST was represented by:
Simon Duke (Chair, SD)
Roger Southgate (Board Member, RS)
Steve Nicholson (Secretary, SN)
Tamara Dragadze (Board Member, TD)
HOW IT WORKS
At our regular monthly meetings, Trust board members ask questions relating to as many topics as possible in the time available, based on responses from members to the advance notification of the meeting and our own observations from interacting with the wider supporter base. The Club then gives its position, which is discussed. These notes are therefore a statement of both points of view. The Trust continues to press both the Board's and its members' view at these meeting's.
Often members ask similar questions, and, in these cases, we try to summarise, provide the Club with feedback and gain as much useful information as possible in the time available. We also prioritise new, time-critical and member raised topics, whilst also seeking updates on longer running issues.
You can access notes of all previous meetings on our website, including the most recent information on key topics not covered at this meeting.
Ticket Exchange/ West Ham United at Home Fixture
SD opened the meeting by thanking the club for its initiative, for the West Ham United midweek game, of allowing seniors and concessions to put their ticket on to the Ticket Exchange. SD asked how many tickets were put on to the Ticket Exchange and how many were sold.
JW advised circa 180 tickets were placed onto the Ticket Exchange with circa 70 taken up. No further mid-week games this season but might look at doing this again during next season.
Season Ticket Prices 2026/2027
SD asked AM about next season's season ticket prices and what could be shared with our members.
AM deferred to JN who advised that a similar process to last year will take place during April. This may move into May and then will consult with the FAB.
Squad Cost Ratio
SD asked AM about the Squad Cost Ratio and whether the income derived from Fulham Pier was included, as income, for this calculation.
AM confirmed that income from Fulham Pier was included in the accounts, and that was for income derived on match days and non-match days.
Facilities
SD then discussed the state of the toilets, especially in the Hammersmith End, and the photographs SD took and shared with JN.
JN had shared the photographs with the appropriate individuals within Fulham FC.
SD then asked DP what will be done to improve the situation.
DP confirmed that he is exploring options this summer.
SN then shared that the majority of the emails he receives from members, on this subject, relate to water pressure. Not being able to flush the toilet or wash hands, which is a sanitary issue.
DP shared that Thames Water, at the beginning of the year, had turned off a valve in the street which caused problems for supporters in the Hammersmith End at a home match. There have also been water pressure issues in the Putney End with a solution being investigated. The majority of the complaints Fulham have received relate to the decor.
SN shared that there wasn't any water in the Hammersmith End in the sinks.
DP asked if we could share emails received, as and when they are received, rather than stock piling for our meeting. DP is happy to receive these emails and distribute, internally, to the appropriate team.
As a summary, for record, of the recent email communications between SD and JN:
A picture of the toilets was sent to Jamie.
The taps were without water at half-time and full-time in the hand-washing basins in the middle-most gents' toilet during the Spurs match.
The hand sanitiser pumps in the toilets have been emptied before kick-off at the accessible-most entrances in the gents as well last 2 match days. This needs to be topped up before the match and at HT.
How can facilities be improved to be inclusive of mothers and fathers wanting to bring their young babies or toddlers to the match (Ie spaces for changing facilities)
Water for handwashing in P2 toilets has generally run out 20-40 minutes before kick off.
Toilet paper system did not work properly
SD shared that there is a nail on the door of one of the toilets where a member has cut himself and asked if this could be repaired. If all the approvals were signed off what would the changes to the toilet area look like. Emails, regarding the toilets, is the hottest subject our members have recently written in on.
DP stated his ambitions for a face lift to the facilities and more toilets, but noted the very obvious constraints of the site.
TM joined the meeting at 13:43.
Stewarding
SN asked about stewarding. There were three questions (1) Was it deliberate to reduce the number of stewards for the Southampton game (2) People brought alcohol into the Hammersmith Stand and Johnny Haynes stand (3) Has Fulham seen the Photograph of a steward asleep posted on social media.
JD responded (1) yes due to the expected reduced crowd attendance (2) Disappointed to hear this and will cover them off at the next game during the briefing. (3) yes, JD had seen the photograph and the agency used and that individual will not be stewarding at Fulham again.
Away Supporters
RS asked for the club's stance on away supporters wearing full colour/ hats in the home areas.
JD responded that if an away supporter's presence has a negative effect, then we will intervene. If there is not a negative effect then we will not intervene. We try and intercept away supporters, at the place of entrance to the home stands.
RS then said that there is a belief, numbers could not be quantified, that Fulham do not do anything when seat numbers, used by away supporters, are provided to the club. Would it be possible to share the work and success that NW and the club do. This leads onto the belief that the club does some excellent work but, for whatever reason, fails to share with the supporters.
SD felt that this was for the FST to do and SN confirmed that every email response, on this subject, highlights the work undertaken by Fulham to withdraw season tickets by those individuals who share their season tickets with away supporters.
JD confirmed that this problem is wide spread and not just related to Fulham FC.
Hospitality
SN queried whether season ticket holders who upgrade to Hospitality receive Loyalty Points for that game.
JB responded that historically and currently Loyalty Points have not been provided against Hospitality purchases. However, as part of the Loyalty Points review currently being undertaken with the FAB, this may be added in the future.
Bag Checking
SN raised bag checking issues, related to the Johnny Haynes Stand, and wondered if there could be a queuing system or a sign showing where the bag checking was taking place. This is raised because a member was told of two different areas for bag checking, duly queued up each time and, when arriving at the front of the queue was told to go somewhere else and missed the first 15 minutes of the Tottenham Hotspur game.
JD advised 'no' because the turnstiles are too close together. For next season JD is looking to see where these can be positioned and made more recognisable.
SD enquired whether the turnstiles used for bag checking could be placed on the pre match email sent out from Fulham.
JD said they could look to adding this information to the email although the same numbered turnstiles had been used for the last 3 years bar one movement in the Johnny Haynes Stand.
Local Residents' Tickets
SN then raised the Local Residents' Tickets provided for the West Ham United home match. When, who to and why were the three questions posed.
CM shared that Fulham had been doing this for several years and it wasn't anything new. As the ground is set within a residential area, Fulham want to be good neighbours and show appreciation for any disruption caused on match day. Fulham meet quarterly with residents to discuss operations and many who attend are Fulham fans. The invitation to obtain tickets go out to those in the immediate vicinity of the ground and who are impacted more as a 'thank you' and this gesture is appreciated by the residents. There is usually a good take up and on previous occasions FFC have tried to provide this once a season.
SN then asked for confirmation that the Fulham Foundation also provides tickets especially to school children.
CM confirmed the belief and that this season, in addition, working with the DSA.
Riverside Stand: FFC Women v Queens Park Rangers 18th February 2026
In the absence of TD, SD asked if SN could discuss the recent Fulham Women's game held at Craven Cottage. TD arrived in time to take this forward.
TD said Riverside use was a good idea however there were two issues:
Communications: it was felt that 'the meal deal' was not communicated well enough to the staff resulting in supporters paying the full price.
It was a cold night and hot drinks, after 7:30 pm, were not sold.
Insufficient Female toilets open for the level of tickets sold.
DP advised that the toilets had been cleaned and repaired in preparation of the game however some were closed, it was a mistake with an unreserved apology and confirmed it will never happen again.
GS responded to the Meal Deal situation and will look into tomorrow. Hot drinks were on sale all night however just from one outlet, transactions carried on throughout the evening. However, it appears that the Riverside Stand was in 'Fulham Pier' mode and therefore in a 'hybrid mode' for this match. Reflections will take place as to whether to hold future fixtures in a hybrid mode or one that more resembles a Men's match day.
The next Women's match will take place with supporters sitting in the Johnny Haynes Stand.
TD wanted to talk about Motspur Park facilities for women's matches.
TD believed that no announcements are made, music is played, regarding how many extra minutes will be added on/ who scored the goal.
Catering, there is a mini van which supplies coffee however it has been heard that ''Fulham is the 'Premier League club' which doesn't offer even a crumb to the away supporter's''. TD believed that the opposition players did not receive any food post match.
JB picked up the announcer question. Jamie Reed was lined up. However, recently, Fulham had two men's match that fell on a Sunday. Jamie Reed works as co-commentator at those matches which prevented him being at Motspur Park. JB will ensure that there is always an announcer at Motspur Park for the women's games.
NW will look into whether the opposition players receive any food after the match and what Fulham's obligation is in this respect.
TD's understanding is that in the women's games, Tier 4, there is dispensation not to have to provide opposition players with food as not all clubs can afford this.
JN felt that this might have been a one-off situation and will look into this.
SD asked Is Motspur Park fit/ adaptable to Tier 3 football should the women get promoted this season, which looks the case?
The answer received was a firm 'yes'.
AOB
There were no other questions or business from the club or FST.
The meeting closed at 2:12pm.
The following items were raised with the club and answers (in italics) provided outside of the meeting.
Members request for the Scouting Team structure: the club have no plans at this stage to make this publicly available on the website.
Members request for Zero alcohol on draft: currently this is not possible as 'breaching a keg' with the gaps between matches would not be sustainable.
PA system (too loud in certain stands): the Club are currently satisfied with the PA system and regular checks are carried out.
Storage of FFC Memorabilia (provided by supporters e.g. past programmes): unfortunately, due to lack of space to display, this is not possible.
https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2026/03/notes-from-our-march-meeting-with-fulham-fc/
Fulham man on 'shortlist' of Manchester United ahead of the summer
Fulham could face a battle to keep hold of the player this summer amid attention from elsewhere
Fulham defender Antonee Robinson is on the 'shortlist' of Manchester United, according to Football Insider. The Whites could face a battle to keep hold of the left-back this summer. His contract at Craven Cottage expires in June 2028.
Marco Silva's side won 3-1 at home against Burnley last time out. Josh King, Harry Wilson and Raul Jimenez got their goals against the Clarets. The London outfit still have hopes of getting into Europe this season and have seven fixtures left to play this term.
Fulham defender Antonee Robinson eyed by Manchester United
Fulham won't want to lose Robinson in the next transfer window, especially to a team in the same league. However, their hands may be tied if a team like Manchester United came in with an offer that they can't refuse. The full-back has been a good servant to the Whites over recent years.
Robinson, 28, joined up with the Cottagers back in 2020 and has since become one of their key players. He has made 207 appearances in all competitions, chipping in with three goals from the back. The USA international, who has 50 caps to his name, will be looking forward to the World Cup later this year and that tournament is a chance for him to put himself in the shop window.
The Milton Keynes-born man started his career at Everton and rose up through their academy. He never played a first-team match for the Toffees though. Instead, he was loaned out from Goodison Park to North West pair Bolton Wanderers and Wigan Athletic to boost his development and to get some experience under his belt.
After penning a new deal with Fulham in 2023, he said at the time: "To the fans who have stuck by me, supported me ever since I've been at this Club, it's been one hell of a ride. Some ups, some downs, especially off the back of last season, I just want to thank you for your massive support. I'm going to repay that support with a lot of hard work to improve myself, and continue to grow as a team."
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham-fc/fulham-antonee-robinson-wanted-by-manchester-united-transfer-window-6276798
Wilson's Fulham form 'no surprise to Wales' - Ampadu
Ethan Ampadu says Harry Wilson's outstanding club form comes as no surprise to those inside the Wales camp, insisting the forward has been delivering at a high level for years.
Ampadu believes Wilson's growing influence at Fulham now mirrors the importance he has long held for Wales, particularly since Gareth Bale's retirement.
"It's no surprise. We've seen his quality for many years," said Ampadu.
Wales are preparing to host Bosnia-Herzegovina in a World Cup qualifying play-off semi-final in Cardiff on Thursday.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/videos/cj37m85g552o
Liverpool rule out summer move for Antonee Robinson
Liverpool will not pursue a deal for 28-year-old USMNT international Antonee Robinson this summer, giving Manchester United a clear run at the Fulham left-back.
According to a report by Football Insider, Antonee Robinson is no longer a target for Liverpool. The Reds are eager to reinforce their defensive unit by signing a left-back in the summer transfer window. However, they have ruled out a move for the Fulham wide player, as he is "seen as being too old to fit in with the current transfer model" at the Merseyside club.
The update has come as a shot in the arm for Manchester United, with the Red Devils joining the battle for the American left-back's signature. Robinson is "one of a number of candidates who are likely to be considered" ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Has Antonee Robinson been an asset for Fulham?
Antonee Robinson has established himself as one of the best full-backs in the Premier League since helping Fulham return to the top flight in 2022. Born in Milton Keynes, the 28-year-old spent his formative years in England and graduated from the youth division at Everton. However, the player has risen in prominence since joining Fulham from Wigan Athletic in August 2020.
Robinson has made significant progress in the last five and a half years, having been a mainstay at the back for Fulham. The USMNT international has been exceptional with his creative output, scoring three goals and providing 22 assists in over 200 outings for Fulham thus far. Meanwhile, the player's progress piqued the attention of several Premier League giants.
Move across the Premier League on the cards?
Manchester United's interest in Antonee Robinson makes sense. The Red Devils are combing the market for a left-back, as Luke Shaw is on the wrong side of 30. While the English international has been injury-free this season, he must have an alternative in the 2026/27 campaign, which will have Manchester United featuring in a European competition. So, with Patrick Dorgu transitioning into an attacking role, Robinson has emerged as a viable target.
Meanwhile, recent reports have heavily linked the Fulham left-back with Liverpool, with many suggesting he is the Merseyside club's top target to replace Andrew Robertson. While the Scot may leave Liverpool in the coming months, Robinson will not fill his void in the Merseyside club's squad, even though he can be a like-for-like replacement for the veteran full-back.
The Reds have ruled out a summer move for the 28-year-old USMNT international as he does not fit the age profile they are targeting for their deals in the coming months. Liverpool's decision is good news for Manchester United, and they will hope to seal a summer deal for Robinson.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/03/25/liverpool-rule-out-summer-move-for-antonee-robinson/
Ricardo Pepi move to Fulham breaks down again
Ricardo Pepi has been linked with a move to Fulham in recent months, but the move seems to have collapsed again.
PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi has been on Fulham's radar for quite some time, but the two clubs have not yet been able to finalise the move. It seemed like the transfer would finally get across the line this time around, but Fulham have pulled the plug on the deal for now. The Eredivisie club's director, Ernest Stewart, has now reflected on the situation.
Ricardo Pepi move has collapsed
"We were, of course, already in talks with Fulham during the winter break when they came just before the transfer window closed," he told via Sky Sports before adding, "We couldn't bring in a replacement anymore, so at that moment, the transfer couldn't go through. But a week later we got back in talks and the process got underway.
"That responsibility for the player was a very important detail that always played a role. And while we did get a bit closer to each other in that regard, ultimately, we remained too far apart. Ricardo really wanted this. It is an unpleasant situation, especially for Ricardo. We are, of course, happy that we are retaining a good striker."
Ricardo Pepi is reportedly carrying an injury, and it is unclear whether that played a part in the collapse of the move. It is still unclear why the transfer has not gone through yet. The two clubs had already agreed on a deal worth around £30 million.
Pepi could have been an upgrade on the current options
The 23-year-old United States international was really keen on the transfer, and he will be disappointed with the situation. The USMNT international has been very impressive for the Dutch outfit, scoring 13 goals and recording two assists this season. He would have hoped to hit the ground running in the Premier League as well.
Fulham need more quality in the final third. Raul Jimenez has entered the twilight stages of his career, and they need to replace him properly. While Marco Silva has Rodrigo Muniz at his disposal, the Brazilian has found the back of the net just once in all competitions this season. So, the American striker could have been the ideal acquisition, and Fulham will aim to secure an agreement again.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/03/25/ricardo-pepi-move-to-fulham-breaks-down-again/
Player left 'severely disappointed' by Fulham – Attitude might have changed drastically
PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi is 'severely disappointed' by Fulham's decision to pull out of the deal for him.
ESPN Netherlands report the striker could have changed his stance on a move to Fulham following last weeks' drama.
Fulham's move for Pepi was 'all but sealed' after the Premier League side reached an agreement with PSV for him, worth €40m. The striker even travelled to London for a medical, which he is believed to have passed.
That was the conclusion of weeks of talks after a move in the January transfer window fell through.
Why the deal fell through
Yet the deal fell through at the last minute because the club's could not agree on the transfer responsibility. That had been a key element of talks. The two clubs had different ideas on when the 'transfer of responsibility' would take place.
Fulham wanted it to happen the moment the Premier League transfer window opens. That is during the World Cup, which is too late from PSV's perspective.
The two clubs made concessions, but they proved insufficient to reaching an agreement. Thus, the transfer collapsed at the last minute. Fulham simply considered the risk too great.
A deal in the future is not off the table. Indeed, PSV technical director Ernest has insisted they will not rule out that happening.
Pepi stance may have changed
Whether Fulham come back in is a big question at the Dutch club. The same applies to Ricardo Pepi's attitude towards a move.
He has long wanted to go to the Premier League and made that stance clear. The move was seen as a good deal for all parties.
But how will he now feel about Fulham? According to ESPN Netherlands, sources close to the striker say that they 'severely disappointed him'. In other words, he may no longer be that keen on the London club given what's gone on.
That is perhaps something else they will need to work on, if Fulham decide to return for Pepi in the coming months. For now, the deal is dead and the striker is severely disappointed.
https://sportwitness.co.uk/player-left-severely-disappointed-by-fulham-attitude-might-have-changed-drastically/
International call-ups
Details of the Fulham players joining up with their national sides this week.
Senior squad
🇩🇰 Joachim Andersen (Denmark) - World Cup Play-Off(s)
🇳🇴 Sander Berge (Norway) - Friendlies
🇳🇴 Oscar Bobb (Norway) - Friendlies
🇧🇪 Timothy Castagne (Belgium) - Friendlies
🇳🇬 Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria) - Friendlies
🇨🇦 Luc De Fougerolles (Canada) - Friendlies
🇲🇦 Issa Diop (Morocco) - Friendlies
🇳🇬 Alex Iwobi (Nigeria) - Friendlies
🇲🇽 Raúl Jiménez (Mexico) - Friendlies
🇷🇸 Saša Lukić (Serbia) - Friendlies
🇺🇸 Antonee Robinson (United States) - Friendlies
🏴 Harry Wilson (Wales) - World Cup Play-Off(s)
Under-23s
🇨🇲 Macaulay Zepa (Cameroon) - Training camp
Under-21s
🏴 Josh King (England) - European Qualifiers
🇸🇪 Jonah Kusi-Asare (Sweden) - European Qualifiers
Under-19s
🏴 Samuel Amissah (England) - European Qualifiers
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/march/25/international-call-ups/
Fulham transfer news: PSV chief reveals why Premier League move fell through
PSV Eindhoven technical director Ernest Stewart has revealed Ricardo Pepi's proposed move to Fulham collapsed after the two clubs failed to agree on the finer details of the transfer.
Fulham made an initial attempt to sign Pepi in the winter transfer window, but PSV were reluctant to sanction the forward's departure without signing a suitable replacement.
The Cottagers then entered negotiations over a move to recruit Pepi in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The two sides reached an agreement over a fee, and then Pepi travelled to London last week to undergo a medical.
PSV chief reveals why Pepi to Fulham move fell through
However, reports soon emerged that the proposed transfer was on the brink of collapse after talks broke down between the two clubs.
Stewart has now revealed that the deal fell through because the two clubs failed to agree on when the "responsibility for the player would be transferred'.
"We were, of course, already in talks with Fulham during the winter break when they came just before the transfer window closed," Stewart told ESPN Netherlands.
'We couldn't bring in a replacement anymore, so at that moment, the transfer couldn't go through. But a week later, we got back in talks and the process got underway.
"That responsibility for the player was a very important detail that always played a role.
"And while we did get a bit closer to each other in that regard, ultimately, we remained too far apart.
"Ricardo really wanted this. It is an unpleasant situation, especially for Ricardo. We are, of course, happy that we are retaining a good striker."
What next for Pepi?
While the move to Fulham has failed to materialise at this stage, it still seems likely that Pepi will leave PSV ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
The USA international has gained admirers with his performances in a PSV shirt, having netted 39 goals in 96 competitive appearances, including 10 goals in 20 Eredivisie games this season.
Fulham could still reignite their interest in the summer, while Pepi has been linked with a couple of other Premier League clubs, including West Ham United and Everton.
PSV are clearly open to sanctioning a sale, as long as they receive a suitable proposal for the forward who is under contract until the summer of 2030.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/psv-chief-reveals-why-fulhams-pepi-move-fell-through_594489.html
No-one can replace Bale - but Wilson's giving it a go
One player cannot replace Gareth Bale – Wales' greatest is simply irreplaceable – but Harry Wilson is giving the impossible job a pretty good go.
It is difficult to overstate the void Bale left. More international goals and appearances than any other Welshman, and the stats only hint at the transformational effect the former Real Madrid forward had on his country.
Coping without Bale has had to be a collective effort. Wilson, however, has stepped up more than most.
Since Bale retired in 2023, Wilson has scored more goals than any of his countrymen. In fact, 12 of his 17 career international goals have come during that time.
Many have been spectacular, adding to a showreel of long-range strikes to rival Bale's back catalogue.
Most have come with Wilson's left foot too, a source of magic akin to the one Bale possessed.
There is even a slight suggestion of a physical resemblance. Well, maybe that's pushing the comparison, but Wilson's flowing locks now require an Alice band like Bale's. A nod to the hair apparent?
Where Wales used to rely on Bale in their most important moments, now they turn to Wilson.
Craig Bellamy's side face Bosnia-Herzegovina in their World Cup play-off semi-final in Cardiff on Thursday and, if they are victorious, they will host Italy or Northern Ireland in the final the following Tuesday.
When Wales beat Austria and Ukraine in play-offs to reach the 2022 World Cup, Bale scored all three goals.
Could Wilson do similar this time?
"We can't replace Bale," he tells BBC Sport Wales. "He was our best ever player.
"He carried us through games, he got us to major tournaments and the performances he put in in those tournaments were incredible.
"I never saw it as 'I have to replace Bale', I just knew along with the other attacking players we've got massive boots to fill, a big void to fill. As a collective we have to do that.
"I'm really happy with the way I've played and my numbers since Gaz left. But it definitely wasn't the case of me replacing him because no-one can do that."
Given Bale's heights for club and country, you can understand the reluctance to make the comparison.
Whereas Bale's career was almost a linear surge towards the very top, Wilson's journey has been a slow slalom to his current status as one of the most in-form players this Premier League season.
Like Bale, Wilson became his country's youngest ever international at 16. But he could not make the transition from academy starlet to first team at Liverpool. Six different loan moves saw him make intermittent impressions before finding a home at Fulham.
Even then, in his first three seasons after a key role in helping the club to the Premier League, more than half his appearances were from the bench.
Unthinkable now given his 10 goals and six assists have had some of the very best taking notice, especially with speculation over his next move gathering pace given his Fulham deal ends this summer.
"There will be other clubs looking at him because everything good about Fulham comes through Harry Wilson," said Match of the Day pundit Wayne Rooney following Wilson's weekend goal against Burnley. "His goals, his assists, his vision, everything about his game has been brilliant.
"He's been outstanding all season, but it makes me wonder why is it coming now? Why haven't we seen it consistently throughout his career?"
It may be down to injuries and opportunities - or lack of given he rarely started more than three Premier League games in a row for Fulham before last season.
Or it may just be a mixture of coincidence and confidence.
"Sometimes it just clicks for a player," says Wales head coach Craig Bellamy.
"The older you get, not just as a footballer but as a person, the wiser you become, the smarter you become.
"His football IQ is very high. His positioning, his understanding of the game I see has definitely gone on to another level."
Wilson's Wales team-mate Ethan Ampadu adds: "I'm not sure why it's taken others so long to realise it because he's always been at those levels and for us it's no surprise.
"Everyone has known his qualities, but this year it's been nice to see the wider audience speak about him more because we know what he can do with the magic of his left foot."
That is something Wilson has been able to showcase more and more this season, when he has often conjured something out of nothing.
His highlight reel and a December goal of the month award for the outside of the boot strike against Crystal Palace back up such thinking, as do the statistics that show only Manchester City's Antoine Semenyo has outscored his xG (expected goals) by as much as Wilson. In other words, he scores goals he has no right to.
Which brings us back to Bale.
As former Wales captain Barry Horne puts it: "Let's not compare him to a recent, previous goalscorer and creator who shall remain nameless, but he is Wales' creative heartbeat at the moment. Free-kicks, open play, he's the man we'll be looking to to make things happen for us."
As will his team-mates.
"For us to achieve what we want it will be about the collective, players, staff, fans," says Ampadu.
"But when you look at a player who can create a moment of magic from nothing it's definitely a confidence booster."
Remind you of anyone?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c9378578jewo
Quote from: WhiteJC on March 25, 2026, 11:38:13 PMNotes from our March meeting with Fulham FC
On Wednesday 11th March 2026 at 13.35, the Fulham Supporters' Trust (FST) met with Fulham FC via video conference.
The Club was represented by:
Alistair Mackintosh (Chief Executive, AM)
David Daly (Non-Executive Director, DD)
Darren Preston (Chief Operating Officer, DP)
Carmelo Mifsud (Communications Director, CM
Jack Burrows, Marketing Director (JB)
Jamie Nicholson (Head of Supporter Services, JN)
Jane Woods (Head of Ticketing, JW)
John D'arcy (Head of Safety)
Nicola Walworth (Supporter Relations Manager)
Glen Sutton (Fulham Pier, GS)
The FST was represented by:
Simon Duke (Chair, SD)
Roger Southgate (Board Member, RS)
Steve Nicholson (Secretary, SN)
Tamara Dragadze (Board Member, TD)
HOW IT WORKS
At our regular monthly meetings, Trust board members ask questions relating to as many topics as possible in the time available, based on responses from members to the advance notification of the meeting and our own observations from interacting with the wider supporter base. The Club then gives its position, which is discussed. These notes are therefore a statement of both points of view. The Trust continues to press both the Board's and its members' view at these meeting's.
Often members ask similar questions, and, in these cases, we try to summarise, provide the Club with feedback and gain as much useful information as possible in the time available. We also prioritise new, time-critical and member raised topics, whilst also seeking updates on longer running issues.
You can access notes of all previous meetings on our website, including the most recent information on key topics not covered at this meeting.
Ticket Exchange/ West Ham United at Home Fixture
SD opened the meeting by thanking the club for its initiative, for the West Ham United midweek game, of allowing seniors and concessions to put their ticket on to the Ticket Exchange. SD asked how many tickets were put on to the Ticket Exchange and how many were sold.
JW advised circa 180 tickets were placed onto the Ticket Exchange with circa 70 taken up. No further mid-week games this season but might look at doing this again during next season.
Season Ticket Prices 2026/2027
SD asked AM about next season's season ticket prices and what could be shared with our members.
AM deferred to JN who advised that a similar process to last year will take place during April. This may move into May and then will consult with the FAB.
Squad Cost Ratio
SD asked AM about the Squad Cost Ratio and whether the income derived from Fulham Pier was included, as income, for this calculation.
AM confirmed that income from Fulham Pier was included in the accounts, and that was for income derived on match days and non-match days.
Facilities
SD then discussed the state of the toilets, especially in the Hammersmith End, and the photographs SD took and shared with JN.
JN had shared the photographs with the appropriate individuals within Fulham FC.
SD then asked DP what will be done to improve the situation.
DP confirmed that he is exploring options this summer.
SN then shared that the majority of the emails he receives from members, on this subject, relate to water pressure. Not being able to flush the toilet or wash hands, which is a sanitary issue.
DP shared that Thames Water, at the beginning of the year, had turned off a valve in the street which caused problems for supporters in the Hammersmith End at a home match. There have also been water pressure issues in the Putney End with a solution being investigated. The majority of the complaints Fulham have received relate to the decor.
SN shared that there wasn't any water in the Hammersmith End in the sinks.
DP asked if we could share emails received, as and when they are received, rather than stock piling for our meeting. DP is happy to receive these emails and distribute, internally, to the appropriate team.
As a summary, for record, of the recent email communications between SD and JN:
A picture of the toilets was sent to Jamie.
The taps were without water at half-time and full-time in the hand-washing basins in the middle-most gents' toilet during the Spurs match.
The hand sanitiser pumps in the toilets have been emptied before kick-off at the accessible-most entrances in the gents as well last 2 match days. This needs to be topped up before the match and at HT.
How can facilities be improved to be inclusive of mothers and fathers wanting to bring their young babies or toddlers to the match (Ie spaces for changing facilities)
Water for handwashing in P2 toilets has generally run out 20-40 minutes before kick off.
Toilet paper system did not work properly
SD shared that there is a nail on the door of one of the toilets where a member has cut himself and asked if this could be repaired. If all the approvals were signed off what would the changes to the toilet area look like. Emails, regarding the toilets, is the hottest subject our members have recently written in on.
DP stated his ambitions for a face lift to the facilities and more toilets, but noted the very obvious constraints of the site.
TM joined the meeting at 13:43.
Stewarding
SN asked about stewarding. There were three questions (1) Was it deliberate to reduce the number of stewards for the Southampton game (2) People brought alcohol into the Hammersmith Stand and Johnny Haynes stand (3) Has Fulham seen the Photograph of a steward asleep posted on social media.
JD responded (1) yes due to the expected reduced crowd attendance (2) Disappointed to hear this and will cover them off at the next game during the briefing. (3) yes, JD had seen the photograph and the agency used and that individual will not be stewarding at Fulham again.
Away Supporters
RS asked for the club's stance on away supporters wearing full colour/ hats in the home areas.
JD responded that if an away supporter's presence has a negative effect, then we will intervene. If there is not a negative effect then we will not intervene. We try and intercept away supporters, at the place of entrance to the home stands.
RS then said that there is a belief, numbers could not be quantified, that Fulham do not do anything when seat numbers, used by away supporters, are provided to the club. Would it be possible to share the work and success that NW and the club do. This leads onto the belief that the club does some excellent work but, for whatever reason, fails to share with the supporters.
SD felt that this was for the FST to do and SN confirmed that every email response, on this subject, highlights the work undertaken by Fulham to withdraw season tickets by those individuals who share their season tickets with away supporters.
JD confirmed that this problem is wide spread and not just related to Fulham FC.
Hospitality
SN queried whether season ticket holders who upgrade to Hospitality receive Loyalty Points for that game.
JB responded that historically and currently Loyalty Points have not been provided against Hospitality purchases. However, as part of the Loyalty Points review currently being undertaken with the FAB, this may be added in the future.
Bag Checking
SN raised bag checking issues, related to the Johnny Haynes Stand, and wondered if there could be a queuing system or a sign showing where the bag checking was taking place. This is raised because a member was told of two different areas for bag checking, duly queued up each time and, when arriving at the front of the queue was told to go somewhere else and missed the first 15 minutes of the Tottenham Hotspur game.
JD advised 'no' because the turnstiles are too close together. For next season JD is looking to see where these can be positioned and made more recognisable.
SD enquired whether the turnstiles used for bag checking could be placed on the pre match email sent out from Fulham.
JD said they could look to adding this information to the email although the same numbered turnstiles had been used for the last 3 years bar one movement in the Johnny Haynes Stand.
Local Residents' Tickets
SN then raised the Local Residents' Tickets provided for the West Ham United home match. When, who to and why were the three questions posed.
CM shared that Fulham had been doing this for several years and it wasn't anything new. As the ground is set within a residential area, Fulham want to be good neighbours and show appreciation for any disruption caused on match day. Fulham meet quarterly with residents to discuss operations and many who attend are Fulham fans. The invitation to obtain tickets go out to those in the immediate vicinity of the ground and who are impacted more as a 'thank you' and this gesture is appreciated by the residents. There is usually a good take up and on previous occasions FFC have tried to provide this once a season.
SN then asked for confirmation that the Fulham Foundation also provides tickets especially to school children.
CM confirmed the belief and that this season, in addition, working with the DSA.
Riverside Stand: FFC Women v Queens Park Rangers 18th February 2026
In the absence of TD, SD asked if SN could discuss the recent Fulham Women's game held at Craven Cottage. TD arrived in time to take this forward.
TD said Riverside use was a good idea however there were two issues:
Communications: it was felt that 'the meal deal' was not communicated well enough to the staff resulting in supporters paying the full price.
It was a cold night and hot drinks, after 7:30 pm, were not sold.
Insufficient Female toilets open for the level of tickets sold.
DP advised that the toilets had been cleaned and repaired in preparation of the game however some were closed, it was a mistake with an unreserved apology and confirmed it will never happen again.
GS responded to the Meal Deal situation and will look into tomorrow. Hot drinks were on sale all night however just from one outlet, transactions carried on throughout the evening. However, it appears that the Riverside Stand was in 'Fulham Pier' mode and therefore in a 'hybrid mode' for this match. Reflections will take place as to whether to hold future fixtures in a hybrid mode or one that more resembles a Men's match day.
The next Women's match will take place with supporters sitting in the Johnny Haynes Stand.
TD wanted to talk about Motspur Park facilities for women's matches.
TD believed that no announcements are made, music is played, regarding how many extra minutes will be added on/ who scored the goal.
Catering, there is a mini van which supplies coffee however it has been heard that ''Fulham is the 'Premier League club' which doesn't offer even a crumb to the away supporter's''. TD believed that the opposition players did not receive any food post match.
JB picked up the announcer question. Jamie Reed was lined up. However, recently, Fulham had two men's match that fell on a Sunday. Jamie Reed works as co-commentator at those matches which prevented him being at Motspur Park. JB will ensure that there is always an announcer at Motspur Park for the women's games.
NW will look into whether the opposition players receive any food after the match and what Fulham's obligation is in this respect.
TD's understanding is that in the women's games, Tier 4, there is dispensation not to have to provide opposition players with food as not all clubs can afford this.
JN felt that this might have been a one-off situation and will look into this.
SD asked Is Motspur Park fit/ adaptable to Tier 3 football should the women get promoted this season, which looks the case?
The answer received was a firm 'yes'.
AOB
There were no other questions or business from the club or FST.
The meeting closed at 2:12pm.
The following items were raised with the club and answers (in italics) provided outside of the meeting.
Members request for the Scouting Team structure: the club have no plans at this stage to make this publicly available on the website.
Members request for Zero alcohol on draft: currently this is not possible as 'breaching a keg' with the gaps between matches would not be sustainable.
PA system (too loud in certain stands): the Club are currently satisfied with the PA system and regular checks are carried out.
Storage of FFC Memorabilia (provided by supporters e.g. past programmes): unfortunately, due to lack of space to display, this is not possible.
https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2026/03/notes-from-our-march-meeting-with-fulham-fc/
Do the Club really think that any away fans who get in the home area wear their hats scarves etc when entering the ground. They have them in their pockets and under coats or jackets then put them on when and if the away side scores. It would not be so bad if they sat on their hands throughout the match but they just can't stop themselves celebrating if they score. Then the home fans erupt but the stewards do what they do best, which is nothing.
Quote from: WhiteJC on March 25, 2026, 11:34:11 PMFabrizio Romano: Tottenham Hold Talks to Appoint 'Genius' Manager in Recent Days
Tottenham have held talks in recent days about potentially appointing Fulham boss Marco Silva as their next manager, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Spurs are having a season of nightmares so far and currently sit just one point above the relegation zone following a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend, with current interim manager Igor Tudor yet to pick up a win since replacing Thomas Frank, and now facing the sack before the end of the campaign.
The north London side are looking for replacements to help preserve their Premier League status, but also know they need to find someone to step in permanently next season and ensure that they aren't in the same position again, which has led them to look at a previous target.
Tottenham Hold Talks Over Marco Silva Move
Silva, who has been described as a 'genius', was strongly linked with a move to become Spurs manager last summer before the club instead opted to bring in Frank.
The Portuguese manager instead stayed at Fulham, and the Cottagers are currently pushing to qualify for Europe, as they sit ninth in the top-flight and just five points behind the Champions League places.
Now Romano, in a late night update on his YouTube channel, has revealed that Tottenham chiefs have once again brought up the idea of bringing Silva to the club as their next manager in recent days.
"In terms of names appreciated by Tottenham, I wanted to bring to the table, as an exclusive update tonight, the name of Marco Silva," he said.
"Fulham manager Marco Silva has a release clause in his contract, and is a name being mentioned internally at Tottenham in recent days. Marco Silva did a very good job at Fulham in recent years, has been on the Tottenham list before Thomas Frank last summer. Now Marco Silva has been discussed again internally at Tottenham.
"Lets see with De Zerbi, with Silva, what they decide to do with his job for present and especially for future because with Tudor, lets see what happens now, but for sure he's not staying beyond this season, even if Tottenham don't get relegated."
Silva Due a Chance at Top Level
Having been brilliant during his time with Fulham, Silva has proved himself as a top manager and is now surely due an opportunity at a club competing at the top level.
Tottenham will feel they can offer that, and with his current deal at Craven Cottage set to expire this summer, it's an easy deal to do.
De Zerbi and Pochettino are the frontrunners still, but Silva is also Premier League-proven and will be hungry to make that step up, so he could be the perfect appointment.
https://www.givemesport.com/tottenham-hold-talks-marco-silva-fabrizio-romano-update/
A big jump up🤔 top level😂
Fulham 9th, Tottenham 17th
Quote from: WhiteJC on March 25, 2026, 11:34:11 PMFabrizio Romano: Tottenham Hold Talks to Appoint 'Genius' Manager in Recent Days
Tottenham have held talks in recent days about potentially appointing Fulham boss Marco Silva as their next manager, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Spurs are having a season of nightmares so far and currently sit just one point above the relegation zone following a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend, with current interim manager Igor Tudor yet to pick up a win since replacing Thomas Frank, and now facing the sack before the end of the campaign.
The north London side are looking for replacements to help preserve their Premier League status, but also know they need to find someone to step in permanently next season and ensure that they aren't in the same position again, which has led them to look at a previous target.
Tottenham Hold Talks Over Marco Silva Move
Silva, who has been described as a 'genius', was strongly linked with a move to become Spurs manager last summer before the club instead opted to bring in Frank.
The Portuguese manager instead stayed at Fulham, and the Cottagers are currently pushing to qualify for Europe, as they sit ninth in the top-flight and just five points behind the Champions League places.
Now Romano, in a late night update on his YouTube channel, has revealed that Tottenham chiefs have once again brought up the idea of bringing Silva to the club as their next manager in recent days.
"In terms of names appreciated by Tottenham, I wanted to bring to the table, as an exclusive update tonight, the name of Marco Silva," he said.
"Fulham manager Marco Silva has a release clause in his contract, and is a name being mentioned internally at Tottenham in recent days. Marco Silva did a very good job at Fulham in recent years, has been on the Tottenham list before Thomas Frank last summer. Now Marco Silva has been discussed again internally at Tottenham.
"Lets see with De Zerbi, with Silva, what they decide to do with his job for present and especially for future because with Tudor, lets see what happens now, but for sure he's not staying beyond this season, even if Tottenham don't get relegated."
Silva Due a Chance at Top Level
Having been brilliant during his time with Fulham, Silva has proved himself as a top manager and is now surely due an opportunity at a club competing at the top level.
Tottenham will feel they can offer that, and with his current deal at Craven Cottage set to expire this summer, it's an easy deal to do.
De Zerbi and Pochettino are the frontrunners still, but Silva is also Premier League-proven and will be hungry to make that step up, so he could be the perfect appointment.
https://www.givemesport.com/tottenham-hold-talks-marco-silva-fabrizio-romano-update/
Silva may well be "due a chance at the top level" but what has that got to do with any move to Spurs?
The usual Vultures will be circling the club.
The last few years the club has been moving in the right direction.
The foundations are there to build on.
We cannot let these entitled clubs think they can turn up and pillage.