Friends of Fulham

 
Man Of The Match Result

Jamie O'Hara was voted Man of the Match by Fulham fans following our opening day draw with Cardiff City on Saturday.

It was a close run thing between O'Hara and another debutant – Andrew Lonergan – but the midfielder came out on top by around 40 votes.

He was his side's busiest player in the Welsh capital with 70 touches of the ball, and he looked to move the play forward whenever possible. A solid debut for the 28-year-old.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/man-of-the-match-result? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/man-of-the-match-result?)

 
Tarkowski shrugs off 'speculation' after Fulham are linked


James Tarkowski has shrugged off reports he could leave Brentford before the transfer window closes.

Fulham have been linked with the defender, who has two years remaining on his contract at Griffin Park.

"It was just speculation for me," said the 22-year-old.

"I'm contracted to Brentford, so I just play. If they tell me I have got to move and they tell me to go, I'll go. But it's not my choice. I'm just here to play football."

Meanwhile, Hull City plan to table another bid for Bees striker Andre Gray, having previously had an offer rejected.

And Tarkowski has no doubt that his team-mate, who netted 18 goals last season and scored after coming on as a substitute in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Ipswich, will go from strength to strength.

"He has so much potential and he had a great year last year," said the former Oldham centre-back.

"I'd love for him to stay. There seems to be a lot of speculation about a lot of different people at the moment but we have to put that to back of our heads and get on with our football."


http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/tarkowski-shrugs-off-speculation-after-fulham-are-linked-with-bees-star-wls-football (http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/tarkowski-shrugs-off-speculation-after-fulham-are-linked-with-bees-star-wls-football)

 
Richards enjoying Fulham's Swansea-like style

Jazz Richards says making his move to Craven Cottage permanent was perfect for him because Fulham play a similar way to his former club Swansea.

Richards was on loan with the Whites last season, having previously had loan spells at Crystal Palace and Huddersfield.

"Definitely I've made the right choice leaving Swansea and coming to Fulham," said the 24-year-old defender.

"I've been on loan to a few different clubs and Fulham was definitely one of the better ones, and I think it was an easy choice for me.

"Kit Symons is a great manager and coach and what he's trying to put forward as a team is similar to the way Swansea do it, and I think that helped me make up my mind as well."

Fulham began their season with a 1-1 draw at Cardiff on Saturday – an encouraging start as they look to improve on a troubled campaign last time around.

"We've just got to have belief in each other and belief in the team," Richards added.

"We've got more than enough good players. It's about going out and proving we can do it."


http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/richards-enjoying-fulhams-swansea-like-style? (http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/richards-enjoying-fulhams-swansea-like-style?)

 
Ainsworth: Fulham tie can be a springboard

WANDERERS boss Gareth Ainsworth says tomorrow night's Capital One Cup clash at home to Fulham is a massive opportunity to build a better future for his club.

He cited the example of Cambridge United in the FA Cup last year, recalling how they earned a plum tie against Manchester United and then used the receipts from their two ties against them to invest in new players which are expected to turn them into serious promotion contenders this season.

Ainsworth said: "Cups are important to me because I'm a traditionalist. I'm an ex-player who loved the cups and a cup run is fantastic for any team. Cambridge United have built their whole season on their cup run from last year. They have invested heavily from that, so cup runs aren't a bad thing, they create finances. We will get one or two injuries but we've had that before."

The Blues boss refused to divulge any team news ahead of the visit of the Championship outfit but it is likely that there will be one or two changes from the team that started the season so well with a 3-0 win over York City at Adams Park on Saturday.

Ainsworth said after that game: "There's a couple of knocks out there. We will assess everyone and see where we are. With a small squad fitness is key and rotation will come into it but squad rotation is difficult without a big squad."

Wanderers will hope to have Matt Bloomfield back in contention tomorrow after he pulled out of Saturday's squad through illness. But midfielder Max Kretzschmar looks set to be ruled out. He arrived at Adams Park on Saturday wearing a protective boot, which the club say is just precaution, after turning his ankle in training on Friday.


http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/football/13585139.Ainsworth__Fulham_tie_can_be_a_springboard/? (http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/football/13585139.Ainsworth__Fulham_tie_can_be_a_springboard/?)

 
Grant's Assessment

Peter Grant was pleased with his side's second-half performance as they beat Brighton and Hove Albion 1-0 on the opening day of the 2015/16 Under-21 season.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/grants-assessment? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/grants-assessment?)

 
Jazz Rues Missed Chances

Jazz Richards felt Fulham should have taken all three points on Saturday afternoon at Cardiff City, having led the hosts until the latter stages.

Matt Smith had put the Whites in front but the team could not hang on for all three points in the Welsh capital.

"I think we came out strong, we dominated the game in the first half," Richards said. "In the second half it evened out a little bit but with us going 1-0 up you've got to kill off the game and go and win it.

"Both keepers did well, both teams had chances, [but] ours were more clear and we've just got to go and finish them."

Following a somewhat more promising start to the new campaign than the last, the 24-year-old is setting his sights high for the season, believing promotion is a realistic target.

"We've got to have belief in each other and belief in the team," he explained. "We've got more than enough good players and it's just about belief and going on and proving we can go and do it."


The full-back joined the Whites this summer on a permanent deal following a successful loan spell from Swansea City last season, and has no regrets about leaving the Barclays Premier League.

"I've made the right choice leaving Swansea and joining Fulham," he insisted. "I've been on loan to a few different clubs but coming to Fulham was definitely one of the better ones and it was an easy choice for me."

The former Cardiff youth player also worked under Manager Kit Symons when on international duty with Wales, and that relationship helped Richards make the move to the capital.

"Kit's a great manager and coach," he stated. "And what he's trying to put forward to the team is kind of similar to how Swansea do it, and that helped me make up my mind as well."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/jazz-rues-missed-chances? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/jazz-rues-missed-chances?)

 
Fulham FC partner with Visit Florida

English Championship side Fulham FC have named Visit Florida as their main team sponsor for the 2015/16 season.

In addition to Visit Florida appearing on the front of Fulham's shirts, the US state's tourism board will be featured on the roof of the Riverside Stand and on signage at the club's Craven Cottage home ground.

Fulham chairman, Shahid Khan, said: "I love Fulham and I love Florida, so naturally it brings me a lot of satisfaction to see two of my personal passions become one.

"But what's most important is how much this partnership makes strategic sense for both Fulham and Visit Florida.  One of my stated goals has long been the expansion and development of Fulham as an international brand, particularly in the US.

"Visit Florida has a great tourism and leisure story to tell in the competitive London and UK market, and I don't think there can be a better way of communicating all Florida has to offer than through the power and following of Fulham Football Club."

Paul Phipps, Visit Florida's chief marketing officer, added: "Visit Florida is thrilled with this partnership with Fulham Football Club.

"It provides us with a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of Florida's diverse range of active holiday options and experiences including world-class sports, wonderful beaches and amazing theme parks."

Fulham commenced their 2015/16 league campaign in the Sky Bet Championship, the second professional soccer division in England, with a 1-1 draw away to Cardiff City over the weekend.



- See more at: http://www.soccerex.com/news/2015/08/fulham-fc-partner-visit-florida?#sthash.ckCt9Ael.dpuf (http://www.soccerex.com/news/2015/08/fulham-fc-partner-visit-florida?#sthash.ckCt9Ael.dpuf)

 
Fulham youngster making 'brilliant' progress in recovery from injury


Fulham youngster George Williams is making "brilliant" progress in his recovery from a long-term knee injury, according to boss Kit Symons.

The 19-year-old suffered cruciate damage in March while on loan at MK Dons and faces a long spell on the sidelines.

"He's going brilliant George, I have to say," Symons said.

"He's a real character. We took him to Portugal and to Austria [during pre-season] – he came on both trips with us – and he's now building up his unopposed ball work.

"He's doing all his rehab stuff and hanging around doing his finishing and crossing and buzzing about the place at the minute, so he's on a real high, progressing really nicely and we're really pleased with the progress he's making."

Fulham are unsure when Williams will be available again but Symons says the Wales international is itching to return for both club and country.

"With these long-term injuries, I don't want to put a time on it," Symons said.

"He's still a little way away. He's still not in any contact yet – but he's made sure he's got his passport ready."


http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-youngster-making-brilliant-progress-in-recovery-from-injury? (http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-youngster-making-brilliant-progress-in-recovery-from-injury?)

 
Loan Round-Up

Liam Donnelly made his professional debut on Saturday as Crawley Town kicked off their Sky Bet League Two campaign with a 1-1 draw at Oxford United.

A Gwion Edwards header put the visitors in front 10 minutes into the second half, but Oxford levelled shortly after through Danny Hylton.

Elsewhere in the division, Stephen Arthurworrey played the whole game as Yeovil Town fought back from two goals down, only to lose 3-2 at Exeter City.

Tom Nichols' penalty and a David Wheeler finish put the Grecians in control of proceedings in the first half, but Town fought back after the restart through Marc Laird and a spot-kick from Matthew Dolan.

But the home side had the final say as Will Hoskins marked his debut with the winning goal with just six minutes remaining.

In the Vanarama Conference South, Magnus Norman made his competitive debut for Hayes & Yeading, who were beaten 4-3 at home by Whitehawk.

Things started well for the hosts and they were two goals up inside the opening 24 minutes courtesy of an Elliott Benyon goal and a spot-kick from Fulham Academy graduate Ismael Ehui.

Whitehawk's Arnaud Mendy was sent off after receiving a second yellow card as he gave away the penalty, but the man advantage lasted just a couple of minutes as Evans Kouassi was also sent for an early bath after he was punished for kicking out.

Jake Robinson pulled one back for the Brighton-based side, and a stoppage time strike for either side from Luke Williams and Sergio Torres made the score 3-2 going into half-time.

The visitors flew out of the blocks after the break, though, and won the game courtesy of two quickfire goals from Danny Mills.

In the Barclays Premier League, Maarten Stekelenburg was beaten twice as Southampton drew away to Newcastle United.

Saints went ahead at St James' Park when Graziano Pelle headed in midway through the first half, but goals from Papiss Cisse and debutant Georginio Wijnaldum either side of the interval turned the game on its head.

Shane Long restored parity on 79 minutes with a header from Dusan Tadic's cross, as the two sides were forced to settle for a point.

Over in Portugal, Kostas Mitroglou came on as a 71st minute substitute as Benfica lost 1-0 to Sporting Lisbon in the Super Cup on Sunday.

Teo Gutierrez deflected in what proved to be the winning goal on 52 minutes, as Sporting – who gave a debut to former Fulham man Bryan Ruiz – claimed the early bragging rights.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/loan-round-up? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/loan-round-up?)

 
Fulham must splash the cash on Lewis Dunk and Dwight Gayle in the transfer window after Cardiff City draw

(https://metrouk2.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/cardiff-city-v-fulham-sky-bet-championship.jpg?w=748&h=971&crop=1)
Jamie O'Hara made a sold start to his Fulham career after his free transfer from Blackpool (Picture: Getty Images)

A 1-1 draw at Cardiff City certainly isn't the most glamorous way to see in the new season but, when put into the context of two years' worth of hellish decline, an anticlimax is probably just what Fulham crave right now.

It was by no means a bore draw at the Cardiff City Stadium – both sides were reasonably creative, and both sides could have easily won – but Kit Symons' team looked infinitely more mature, assured and composed than they had done at various points across last season.

Dan Burn and Shaun Hutchinson, for example, looked respectable. They are not a formidable partnership – and based on the previous campaign, we weren't expecting them to be – but they filled in well in the absence of a new centre back.

Matt Smith was a constant threat up front, Jamie O'Hara dictated play nicely in the middle and Andy Lonergan was sensational on his debut in goal. Even Kay Voser came out of the game with his pride relatively unscathed.

All the positives aside, a lack of width was telling. Alex Kacaniklic, a direct, tricky winger – something the game dearly craved at times – was left on the bench, while the right hand side of midfield was patrolled by Tom Cairney, who naturally prefers the centre.

(https://metrouk2.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/barnet-v-crystal-palace-pre-season-friendly1.jpg?w=620&h=424&crop=1)
Dwight Gayle would be an excellent signing for Fulham (Picture: Getty Images)

And despite scoring, Smith lacks the attributes to create space, make intelligent runs and pull defences apart. When Moussa Dembele came on towards the end, we looked instantly more potent.

As such, it is quite clear that holes still exist. Brighton's Lewis Dunk, the subject of a potential final bid from Fulham, would slip in nicely alongside either Hutchinson or Burn. At only 23, he isn't hugely experienced but he knows the Championship well and would be a cool head in a back line that, occasionally, can become hugely erratic.

Up front, though Smith is a superb option to have, someone of the ilk of Dwight Gayle, at Crystal Palace, could link up perfectly with the evergreen Ross McCormack.

His pace would be crucial in a team that still lacks natural speed and power, while his eye for goal would certainly come in handy. He, too, has been linked with the club, so a loan deal could well be feasible.

But before this becomes another damning deconstruction of two points lost, it's worth noting that we are already in a better position than we were four games into 2014/15 season.

With a point on the board, a strong summer behind us and three weeks of the transfer window remaining, there is at least some cause for optimism at Craven Cottage.


Read more: http://metro.co.uk/2015/08/10/fulham-must-splash-the-cash-on-lewis-dunk-and-dwight-gayle-in-the-transfer-window-after-cardiff-city-draw-5334627/#ixzz3iUMhZb6S (http://metro.co.uk/2015/08/10/fulham-must-splash-the-cash-on-lewis-dunk-and-dwight-gayle-in-the-transfer-window-after-cardiff-city-draw-5334627/#ixzz3iUMhZb6S)

 
Williams progress pleases Symons

Fulham boss Kit Symons says youngster George Williams is progressing well in his recovery from injury.

The 19-year-old is currently working his way back from cruciate ligament damage suffered while on loan at MK Dons in March but is ahead of schedule and spent time training with the rest of the first team in pre-season.

Although it remains unclear when Williams will return, Symons has been impressed by the determination shown by the Wales international.

"He's going brilliant George, I have to say," Symons said.

"He's doing all his rehab stuff and hanging around doing his finishing and crossing and buzzing about the place at the minute, so he's on a real high, progressing really nicely and we're really pleased with the progress he's making.

"With these long-term injuries, I don't want to put a time on it. He's still a little way away."



Read more at: https://www.clubcall.com/championship/williams-progress-pleases-symons-1777475.html? (https://www.clubcall.com/championship/williams-progress-pleases-symons-1777475.html?)

 
Fulham boss wants two-way fight for keeper's shirt

(http://i3.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article9439779.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/4538403.jpg)
Good start: Andy Lonergan

As revealed here first on GetWestLondon - Marcus Bettinelli failed to overcome an injury that left Fulham handing a debut to Andy Lonergan at Cardiff on Saturday.

According to Bluebirds boss Russell Slade, the former Bolton shot-stopper grabbed it with both gloves.

Only the scintillating drive from Craig Noone that beat Lonergan for a share of the points at the death ruined a Whites win.

"I felt we deserved a point massively on the balance of play and the opportunities created, and their keeper Andy Lonergan was excellent," added Slade.

(http://i1.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article9824466.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/4648798.jpg)
Only blip: Cardiff score

In truth, Bettinelli had no real competition last term when the youngster stepped into the breach forged by loans and injuries.

But Fulham boss Kit Symons believes that's all changed with the arrival of Lonergan.

(http://i4.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article8381031.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Bettinelli.jpg)
Competition: Marcus Bettinelli

He said: "Andy's a very good keeper - and that's exactly what we wanted for the position, and keep people on their toes so the overall level rises.

"Hopefully, Marcus will sign a new contract, and both will fight each other for the number one jersey and push each other on all the time."

Lonergan has made it plain he's up for the fight (see video).

"Hopefully, I can put pressure on him Bettinelli," he said. "I'm here to try and get it for myself."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-boss-wants-two-way-9827037? (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-boss-wants-two-way-9827037?)

 
Capital One Cup preview: Wycombe v Fulham preview

Wycombe manager Gareth Ainsworth may be tempted to change a winning side for the Capital One Cup visit of Fulham.

Wanderers have a small squad and although Ainsworth insists he likes working with fewer numbers as he feels it improves squad unity, it does put a strain on playing resources over the course of a season.

The manager admits leaving the likes of midfielders Jason Banton, Stephen McGinn and defender Danny Rowe on the bench for Saturday's 3-0 win over York gives him options.


http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11766/9944454/capital-one-cup-preview-wycombe-v-fulham-preview? (http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11766/9944454/capital-one-cup-preview-wycombe-v-fulham-preview?)

 
Fulham are trying to emulate Swansea City, says Jazz Richards

JAZZ Richards reckons he has "definitely" made the right call by joining Fulham — because they are trying to play like Swansea City.

The Wales right-back made his second competitive debut for Fulham in the 1-1 draw with Cardiff last weekend following his £500,000 summer switch from the Liberty Stadium.

And Richards, who was also linked with Crystal Palace and Aston Villa, believes he has made a smart move by signing a permanent deal at Craven Cottage, where he had a spell on loan last season.

"Definitely I've made the right choice leaving Swansea and coming to Fulham," the 24-year-old told West London Sport.

"I've been on loan to a few different clubs and Fulham was definitely one of the better ones, and I think it was an easy choice for me.

"Kit Symons is a great manager and coach and what he's trying to put forward as a team is similar to the way Swansea do it, and I think that helped me make up my mind as well."

Local lad Richards opted to leave Swansea in the close season in search of regular football with Kyle Naughton and Angel Rangel ahead of him in the pecking order in SA1.



Read more: http://www.southwales-eveningpost.co.uk/Fulham-trying-emulate-Swansea-City-says-Jazz/story-27579569-detail/story.html#ixzz3iUOYYBBT (http://www.southwales-eveningpost.co.uk/Fulham-trying-emulate-Swansea-City-says-Jazz/story-27579569-detail/story.html#ixzz3iUOYYBBT)
Follow us: @SWEveningPost on Twitter | SWEveningPost on Facebook

 
Three Questions about Wycombe Wanderers before Capital One Cup tie

Russell Cox was kind enough to answer some questions about Wycombe Wanderers. I don't know about you, but I know nothing about them.

Since Russell was nice enough to answer out questions, I tried not to ask anything too silly. Like: Why are they called the Chairboys? Answer: High Wycombe is well known for furniture making, especially chairmaking. In the Wycombe Wanderers football club's amateur days, many of the early team members made chairs for a living, playing football in the evenings and weekends.

Be sure to give Russell a follow on twitter. Now, on to the questions.

Cottagers Confidential: I'm going to come out and admit it. I know next to nothing about Wycombe. What can you tell us about the club? What kind of style are they going to play and who are the players to watch out for?

Russell Cox: We were founded in 1887 and remained a successful non league club up until our promotion to the Football League in 1993 under the legendary Martin O'Neill. We then won promotion to the third tier in our first season and remained there until 2004 when we were relegated back to the basement division and apart from a couple of singular seasons back up in League 1, we have remained there since.

Last season we reached the playoff final and were 20 seconds away from going up, but conceded an equaliser and lost on penalties to Southend. This was after only staying up on goal difference the season before. We have reached the semi final of both cup competitions - the FA Cup in 2001 and the League Cup in 2007.

CC: There are often horror stories about travelling to lower league sides for cup games and finding sub par facilities or pitches. What is Adams Park like?

RC: The facilities at Adams Park are excellent as it's a really modern ground. The pitch was awful last season, but has been freshly relayed and was in great nick on Saturday.
CC: The League Cup is kind of the step child of all the competitions in England. Many of the clubs don't take it very seriously until much later in the competition. How much focus does Wycombe put on it and would you rather them focus on results in the league or trying to make a cup run?

RC: I think we have always made a few changes for our first round games, though a cup run would be very handy for the club coffers , so we might go with the same lineup as Saturday.
CC: Finally, if you could predict a lineup and scoreline, that would be great.

RC: I think it will be 1-1 and will go all the way to penalties, which hopefully we will win.

Line up on Saturday was

Ingram

Jombati

Pierre

Stewart

Jacobson

Bean

O'Nien

Wood

Thompson

Holloway

Hayes

I'd expect it to be the same there or thereabouts, possibly with Jason Banton, our new signing from Plymouth, coming in for Hayes or Thompson to give them a rest.


http://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2015/8/10/9126549/three-questions-about-wycombe-wanderers-before-capital-one-cup-tie (http://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2015/8/10/9126549/three-questions-about-wycombe-wanderers-before-capital-one-cup-tie)

 
Wycombe V Fulham

CAPITAL ONE CUP FIRST ROUND
Venue: Adams Park Date: Tuesday, 11 August Kick-off time:: 19:45 BST

TEAM NEWS

Wycombe's Jason Banton, Stephen McGinn and Danny Rowe did not play in a win over York on Saturday but could face Fulham in the League Cup.

Midfielder Ryan Sellers was a late substitute against York and is also in contention to play.

Fulham manager Kit Symons will be without Luke Garbutt, Scott Parker, George Williams and Fernando Amorebieta, who remain injured.

Midfielder Ryan Tunnicliffe serves the second game of his two-match ban.

MATCH FACTS
The last competitive meeting between these two sides came in a League Cup tie in September 2006; a game Wycombe won 2-1 away.
This is the first time that Fulham have played in the first round of the League Cup since 2000-01.
Wycombe have lost seven of their last eight League Cup first-round ties, with their only progression in this timespan coming in 2011-12 versus Colchester.
The last six League Cup games involving Fulham have witnessed 25 goals (4.2 per game).


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33768836 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33768836)

 
FFC Partner With Qualco

Fulham Football Club is delighted to welcome Qualco as an Official Club Partner for the 2015/16 football season.

The agreement means Qualco is also one of the first companies in the financial services space to partner with the Club as it becomes Fulham FC's designated credit management partner.  The partnership will see Fulham FC and Qualco working together to plan and execute varying campaigns over the 10-month period of the agreement.

Qualco provides panel and asset management software analytics that enables both creditors and debt collection agencies to streamline collections activities and realise the value of their portfolios, and its appointment by Fulham FC achieves its desire to expand into new industry sectors, engage with a wider audience and enhance brand recognition.

Christian Jacob, Managing Director at Qualco, said:

"This is an important milestone for the business and runs in tandem with our strategic goals over the next 12 months. It's important that Qualco is able to align itself with a market-leading brand with a strong identity, of which this deal does exactly that. Furthermore, Fulham FC offer a highly sought-after fan base of which we're looking forward to engaging with over the coming season."

Sean O'Loughlin, Finance Director at Fulham FC said:

"We are delighted to welcome Qualco on board as our Official Credit Management Partner for the 2015/16 season. We look forward to working together to help the brand grow its awareness amongst our fans whilst also reaching a wider audience through its association with Fulham."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/ffc-partner-with-qualco? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/10/ffc-partner-with-qualco?)

 
Goode impression? Scunthorpe United's former Fulham youngster Charlie eyes starting role against Barnsley

(http://www.scunthorpetelegraph.co.uk/images/localworld/ugc-images/276413/Article/images/27580299/10695142-large.jpg)
Charlie Goode runs back to the centre circle after retrieving the ball from the back of the Burton Albion net. Picture: Damon Campion.

CHIPPER Charlie Goode is eager to get the chance to build on a solid Football League debut for Scunthorpe United.

But he doesn't know whether Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Burton Albion will count against him as the Iron look to fill the void created by Niall Canavan's ankle injury.

Goode, signed from Ryman Premier League outfit Hendon during the summer, was named among the substitutes at the Pirelli Stadium, but was called into action when Canavan was forced off in the 37th minute after landing awkwardly.

The Londoner did not look out of place on the left of a back three and even popped up with a consolation goal in injury-time, heading in from Gary McSheffrey's corner.

Although memorable, Goode admitted his first professional appearance had come much earlier than he had anticipated.

"I didn't expect it at all, let alone that early. We were unlucky to suffer two injuries to two big players," he told the Telegraph.

"I got my chance and did the best I could. To get a goal at the end of the day is always nice but the result isn't the best.

"If the goal comes with 10 minutes to go it's a different game. The pressure would have all been on Burton and we could probably have got something out of it.

"The fact it came in the 90th minute didn't really mean a lot.

"It gave us a glimmer of hope, but nothing more really. I'm not going to look too much into it, it's the result that matters and it was a bad start for us."

Goode, who has had plenty of game time during pre-season, is hoping he is elevated to the starting line-up on Tuesday, when Scunthorpe – who have also drawn the Tykes in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy – face Barnsley for the first of their four games this season.

He says a quick chance to right the wrongs of the weekend is exactly what the Iron need as they prepare for the visit of Crewe Alexandra on Saturday.

"We need to try to get straight back to winning ways and put in a good performance in. That would kick us on for Crewe on Saturday," added the centre-back.

"A fast start in the league is always important. We didn't get it on Saturday but if we can get a win against Barnsley it gives us something to take forward.

"If we can get a bit momentum going early on, that could be important."

Goode has enjoyed his introduction to the professional game, but admits his first few months at Glanford Park have been an eye opener.

He said: "It's been tough; I have to be honest, from where I was. Last year, with injuries, I didn't really get a pre-season because of injuries so this has been hard.

"I've done as much as I can throughout pre-season to give myself a shot and aim to be in the squad. I've done that and got a chance on Saturday.

"I've got to continue doing what I've been doing and hopefully results can improve from now on.

"Hopefully Naz (Canavan) isn't too bad but anything is a chance for me. If you're not in the starting line-up, when the chance comes along you've got to try to take it.

"It's hard to say if I've done that after the result on Saturday – we conceded two goals after I'd come on – but I'm going to crack on and see where it takes me."



Read more: http://www.scunthorpetelegraph.co.uk/Goode-impression-Scunthorpe-United-s-Fulham/story-27580299-detail/story.html#ixzz3iUQLnWEe (http://www.scunthorpetelegraph.co.uk/Goode-impression-Scunthorpe-United-s-Fulham/story-27580299-detail/story.html#ixzz3iUQLnWEe)
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Keep Those Fingers Crossed
   
Last week in a couple of articles, we discussed the future of our expensive Greek striker, Kostas Mitroglou.

After learning that the player had been snatched from under the noses of Sporting Lisbon by Benfica, we weren`t quite sure what kind of deal had been struck between ourselves and the Lions of Lisbon.

As it turned out it was a loan deal with Fulham still being his parent club.

But, in the Sunday papers, two lines almost hidden at the bottom of the page have provided us with the perfect update.

It transpires that Benfica have an option to sign the player, who never hit the net for Fulham, for a fee of £4 million next summer, if his loan spell is a success.

Now whilst that fee would represent a significant loss for Fulham, on the deal that brought him to Craven Cottage, I`m tempted to ask just how many goals a decent loan spell constitutes so we can finally bid goodbye to an expensive mistake!

Or is that being churlish?


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=408704#ixzz3iUQaKhfj (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=408704#ixzz3iUQaKhfj)

 
Fulham Back in for Dunk
   
I`m losing count how many times the name of the Brighton defender Lewis Dunk and Fulham are appearing in the same sentence.

According to pieces of gossip we`ve covered before, Brighton and Hove Albion have rejected a couple of bids Fulham Football Club has made for the 23-year-old.

However, yesterday the Sunday Mirror was championing the suggestion that Kit Symons is to continue to pursue the player and Fulham could be prepared to back their boss with an increased bid.

Apparently a fee in the region of £5 million will be offered to the south-coast side with a view to persuading them that it is a bid too good to turn down.

By some strange kind of irony, Fulham entertain Brighton this coming Saturday in a Championship game, could a deal be wrapped up before then?

Stranger things have happened!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=408706#ixzz3iUQmXafl (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=408706#ixzz3iUQmXafl)

 
Wolves and Fulham among clubs eyeing Premier League midfielder

Fulham, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bristol City are all in a three-way battle to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Jonny Williams on loan, according to HITC Sport.

Williams has fallen down the pecking order at Selhurst Park and Alan Pardew is reportedly willing to allow him out on loan until January.

Each of the Championship trio are looking to add some depth to their squads and they will be guaranteed commitment to the cause from the Wales international, who will be keen to secure regular first-team football as he looks to nail down a place in the squad ahead of their potential qualification for Euro 2016.

Williams came through the youth ranks at Palace following some very impressive performances and he played a key role in his side securing a return to the Premier League in the 2012/13 season, earning the Young Player of the Year award.

First-team opportunities have not fallen so freely for him in the top-flight, though, and he has spent three separate spells on loan at Ipswich Town.

At the age of 21, Williams already has an abundance of Football League experience, so he could turn out to be an astute bit of business for a Championship club.

Alan Pardew has rejuvenated his Palace side this summer, and it seems that Williams is not yet seen as part of the manager's plans this season – so a loan move to the Championship may be a more beneficial move for both parties.


Read more at http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/wolves-and-fulham-among-clubs-eyeing-premier-league-midfielder/?#6ofdBMle1EAK8VuQ.99 (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/wolves-and-fulham-among-clubs-eyeing-premier-league-midfielder/?#6ofdBMle1EAK8VuQ.99)

 
Jonny Williams set for another loan stint as Wolves, Fulham and Bristol City eye Crystal Palace midfielder

Crystal Palace midfielder Jonny Williams is a target for Championship sides Wolves, Fulham and Bristol City.

The Eagles are ready to send the 21-year-old Wales international out on loan until January.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2015/08/10/23/06BA655100000514-0-image-a-46_1439246810805.jpg)
Crystal Palace are ready to send Wales international midfielder Jonny Williams out on loan until January

Palace boss Alan Pardew wants Williams to get some regular first-team action with his chances likely to be limited at Selhurst Park this season

Williams is highly-regarded having come through the youth ranks at Selhurst Park, but he has seen his progress blighted by injury.

The 21-year-old has had three spells out on loan at Ipswich Town during the last 18 months, but saw the last two stints on loan cut short by injury.

Palace boss Alan Pardew wants Williams to get some regular first-team action

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2015/08/11/00/2B3385D600000578-0-image-m-48_1439247767280.jpg)
Palace boss Alan Pardew wants Williams to get some regular first-team action


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3193015/Jonny-Williams-set-loan-stint-Wolves-Fulham-Bristol-City-eye-Crystal-Palace-midfielder.html#ixzz3iURPXxvU (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3193015/Jonny-Williams-set-loan-stint-Wolves-Fulham-Bristol-City-eye-Crystal-Palace-midfielder.html#ixzz3iURPXxvU)
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Wycombe v Fulham - League Cup 1st Round
   
I guess it is a sign of how far we`ve fallen, since our Premier League days, that we now have to participate in the Capital One Cup first round.

But compete we do and tonight Kit Symon`s will take his side to take on a Wycombe Wanderers side that are intent on producing a cup shock.

Looking ahead, what do we know about the team-news?

Looking at our opponents, Wycombe Wanderers, it appears that Gareth Ainsworth could rotate his squad for our visit with the media suggesting that a quartet who did not play against York City, in the opening fixture of the season, could start, the trio being - Jason Banton, Stephen McGinn and Danny Rowe.

It`s also suggested that Ryan Sellars could feature after coming on as a very late substitute in the aforementioned fixture.

As for Fulham, Kit Symons could shuffle hi starting eleven, we`ll find out how much though when the starting eleven is announced an hour before kick-off.

But Fulham will definitely be without the injured quartet of Luke Garbutt, Scott Parker, George Williams and Fernando Amorebieta.

Also not available is Ryan Tunnicliffe who will be serving the second game of his two-match suspension for a social network misdemeanour.

COYW`s!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=408740#ixzz3iURtc289 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=408740#ixzz3iURtc289)