Friends of Fulham

 
Chris Baird explains why he jumped at the chance to return to Fulham on loan from Derby County

The 33-year-old is thrilled to be back to help the Whites ahead of their relegation scrap

(http://i4.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article8492591.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Chris-Baird2.jpg)
Open arms: Baird as a former White

Fulham's returning fan favourite Chris Baird is delighted to call Craven Cottage home again after playing in the Whites' 3-0 victory over Charlton.

The Northern Irish midfielder recently received a rapturous reception when he returned to west London in Derby colours in the 1-1 draw earlier this month.

But the 33-year-old is thrilled to be back to help Fulham ahead of their relegation scrap.

He said: "It was fantastic. I had six great years here before, I obviously missed it when i left. When the opportunity arose, there was an option to come back.

"It was a massive win. Three goals and a clean sheet. It was a pretty strange game though, Charlton played well in the first half.

"The manager's changed it in the second half - I thought we were a lot better. In the end, I think we deserved a win."

The Cottagers' new central midfielder played for the Whites during their famous Europa League campaign which culminated in a defeat to Atletico Madrid in 2010.

And the club needed all his experience again as they went into Saturday's relegation clash six points above the relegation zone, against 23rd placed Charlton.

Two goals from Tom Cairney - including one brilliant volley - sandwiched a Michael Madl header as Slavisa Jokanovic's men scrapped to victory.

And Baird admits his experience was a crucial factor in the manager's decision to bring him back to Craven Cottage.

He added: "For me, it was about trying to get some games. I'm not saying I'm going to come straight into the team, I'm going to work for my place.

"The manager has just said he needs my experience, the holding midfielder to go in and help as much as he can, use the experience from previous years and try to just help the team."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/chris-baird-explains-jumped-chance-10925926?

 
Madl: Special Feeling

Michael Madl's delight at scoring on his home debut was made all the sweeter by his family's presence at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

The Austrian defender came off the bench to head in the second against Charlton Athletic, a goal which was sandwiched by an exquisite Tom Cairney brace to secure a 3-0 win for Fulham.


Speaking the official website, Madl said: "My parents and my brother were watching me for the first time here, too, so it was a special moment for me.

"It was a great feeling to play for the first time here at Craven Cottage. To score is a special feeling for me because I'm not a goal-getter like Rossco or Moussa, so it was a great feeling. We're all very happy to take a win."

After the all-round disappointment of the previous game, the Whites put in a markedly improved attacking display to see off their London rivals on Saturday, and Madl was relieved his side gave a much-needed response to the Blackburn Rovers performance.

"It was very, very important," he explained. "We said beforehand that this was a very important game and I think, especially second half, we played very well and the win was deserved.

"We have to play like this every game. I think we showed it against QPR and against Charlton, and we have to play like this every time. If we manage to do that then we are a very good Championship team."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2016/february/22/madl-reaction?

 
A Q&A with a Fulham fan: Leeds Against The World


Leeds United and Fulham might not have the storied history, but they're two points apart in the Championship and face off on Tuesday night.[/i]

No one really wants to think anymore about that game on Saturday do they? Good. Thankfully, the Leeds United fans and players have a chance to move on quickly, as Tuesday night Leeds face Fulham back at Elland Road.

In the second of our new series "Leeds Against The World," we interviewed Andrew Beck of SB Nation's Cottagers Confidential to see how the enemy sees the game on Tuesday night. As of today, Leeds sits in 17th place with 37 points after 31 games, and Fulham sits in 18th place with 35 points after 32 games. Neither team is excelling, but nine points clear of relegation, neither team looks to be going down either. A lost season for both; let's see if Andrew has any more hope that we do going into Tuesday.

Leeds Against The World: Fulham FC

Hey, Andrew. Thanks for doing this. Both Fulham and Leeds are flirting with the relegation zone in the Championship table, what's been your biggest disappointment as a Fulham fan this season?

The biggest disappointment has been the sacking of Kit Symons. When he was brought in last year, the team didn't really have much choice. He had a great run as the caretaker, and there was no point in not letting him keep the job for the full year. Unfortunately we never got a chance to decide if the job was too big for him. This year we found out that it most definitely was. Because of this, Fulham have spent more than half a season just treading water.

Where do you think you'll end up?

I don't think either Fulham or Leeds are in much danger of going down. The gap between Blackburn and the bottom five is pretty massive in goal differential. I'd expect Fulham to continue to improve under Slavisa and end up somewhere in the 12-15 spots at seasons end. A top 10 finish would make me ecstatic and very high on the squad going into next year.

Have there been any positives in the 2015/16 campaign for Fulham?

Slavisa Jokanovic appears to be a quality coach who wants to be at Fulham. That's a huge plus. It's been since Roy Hodgson that we've had a coach with quality who actually wants to be here. A few of the players brought in on transfers (Cairney, Madl, O'Hara) have been good. Ross McCormack has had another outstanding year, and Fulham have someone managed to hold on to him.

Do you have a favorite Fulham-Leeds memory?

For two clubs that have been around as long as Fulham and Leeds, there isn't a lot of history. I missed out on most of the early games in the Premier League. When I think of Leeds vs. Fulham, I actually mostly think of the transfer saga around Ross McCormack and the banter about how much we paid. He's been worth every cent for what it's worse.

What's one matchup we should watch for on Tuesday?

Ross McCormack and Moussa Dembele are an EPL quality strike duo. I'm not sure you'll face a better tandem in the division all year. They've combined for 28 goals and 10 assists in all completions this year (26 and 10 in league play). Considering Leeds has only scored 29 league goals this year, that's a pretty hefty total from them.

Give us a reason you'll win:

Slavisa seems to be a good coach. When he gets a decision wrong (as he did when attempting to use a 4-4-2 against Charlton on the weekend), he's quick to recognize it and right it. If he gets it wrong, you're going to have to pile on before he fixes things, because chances are he will.

Give us a reason you'll lose:

Fulham's defense has been dire all year. Slavisa doesn't seem to want to play it, but a 3-5-2/5-3-2 hybrid formation has been the only thing that has worked for Fulham this year. If he starts the team lined up a different way, the hole could be too big to climb out of before he gets a chance to make a change.

What's your predicted result?

Every time Fulham have ever gotten my hopes up, they've disappointed me soon after. The 3-0 win on the weekend has me feeling good. I'm going to say they win 3-0 again. But all the supporters know what the word Fulhamish means, and a Fulhamish performance wouldn't shock me at all either.

Thanks to Andrew for helping with our second Leeds Against The World Q&A. You can read more of his work, along with that of the rest of his talented team, over at the SB Nation Fulham blog, Cottagers Confidential.


http://throughitalltogether.sbnation.com/2016/2/22/11083194/questions-answers-fulham-leeds-united-against-the-world

 
This is why Fulham's Tom Cairney will finally get his way with Leeds next up

Whites midfielder might be forgiven for saying I told you so - after gaffer praises performance and three points against stricken Addicks

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Aim, fire: Tom Cairney scores against Charlton

He's been hinting all season - but it looks as if Tom Cairney will finally get his way.

The Fulham midfielder insisted all along he should play in the middle as you can read here - and his brace against Charlton on Saturday looks to have done the trick.

The £4 million Blackburn signing has been used as a winger for most of the campaign. Ex-boss Kit Symons insisted Cairney was better as a wide man coming inside, but the player was less than convinced.

But the new man at the helm thinks he has seen the shape of things to come.

Boss Slavisa Jokanovic said: "After he scores two goals, people can say that he played very good football."

Here's Cairney and co at their best in our super photo gallery from Saturday's win.

"We have started to use him in the middle more, because at the beginning I try to play with him a little more on the side," the head coach added.

"I believe he can offer us more and help us more from the middle.

"Not only his second goal but his first was a great goal. He has enough quality to do these things."

As Fulham prepare to take on Leeds at Elland Road tomorrow night, almost certainly missing will be Scott Parker who needs the rest his 35-year-old frame from the demands in midweek games.

Chris Baird, who came on for Jamie O'Hara at half time against the Addicks, is pencilled in for a start in Parker's defensive midfield slot.


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulhams-tom-cairney-finally-way-10926998?

 
Leeds United Boss Steve Evans Expects Double Returnee Boost For Fulham

Leeds United boss Steve Evans thinks Liam Cooper and Gaetano Berardi will be available for selection for the Championship clash with Fulham tomorrow evening.

The duo missed the Whites' 1-0 loss to Watford in a fifth round FA Cup game at Vicarage Road on Saturday, owing to injuries.

Swiss defender Berardi has been out of action since picking up an ankle injury during Leeds' goalless draw at Charlton Athletic in December.

On the other hand, Cooper was not fully fit to play against Watford, with the centre-back playing the full 90 minutes of the goalless draw with Middlesbrough last week.

And Evans, who expects the duo to be present in the squad for the Fulham game, however, insisted that winger Mustapha Carayol will not feature against the Cottagers as the winter signing is scheduled to return at the weekend.

"Cooper I think would be fit for Tuesday", he told BBC Radio Leeds following the 1-0 loss at Watford.

"Berardi can make the 18 on Tuesday if he comes through the next couple of days and Carayol [will be back] on Saturday I think."

Leeds are currently 17th in the Championship standings with 37 points from 31 games.


http://www.insidefutbol.com/2016/02/22/leeds-united-boss-steve-evans-expects-double-returnee-boost-for-fulham/271883/?

 
Tottenham to revive bid to sign Fulham starlet Moussa Dembele in the summer
Moussa Dembele came close to joining Tottenham from Fulham last month
The 19-year-old forward will be a free agent at the end of the season
Ligue 1 outfit Monaco have also shown a firm interest in Dembele

Tottenham will revisit their interest in Fulham forward Moussa Dembele at the end of the season.

The 19-year-old came close to joining the White Hart Lane outfit in January, but both clubs failed to agree on the finer details of a deal.

But Spurs are determined to sign Dembele and will revive their move at the end of the season.

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Tottenham will reignite their interest in Moussa Dembele this summer after failing to sign him in January

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Fulham striker Dembele (right) has scored 12 goals in 33 appearances so far this campaign

Dembele will be a free agent at the end of the season and is set to net a potentially lucrative move away.

And Spurs will be front of the queue for the youngster as Mauricio Pochettino looks to add even more young talent to his ranks.

Monaco have also shown a firm interest in Dembele.

Dembele has scored 12 goals in 33 appearances for Fulham so far this season.

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The 19-year-old has also attracted interest from Monaco after a string of impressive appearances for Fulham


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3458319/Tottenham-revive-bid-sign-Fulham-starlet-Moussa-Dembele-summer.html#ixzz40ye76u24
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Can't Wait For Elland Road Return Says Former Leeds United Hitman

Fulham striker Matt Smith says he is relishing the chance to take on former club Leeds United at Elland Road tomorrow evening.

The 26-year-old marksman, who turned out for Leeds between 2013 and 2014, was sold to Fulham by the Whites in 2014 and put pen to paper on a three-year deal at Craven Cottage.

Smith will have the chance to damage his former side's hopes of breaking into the Championship's top ten this term when Fulham take on Leeds tomorrow night.

Victory for Fulham would see them leapfrog 17th placed Leeds in the standings and Smith is relishing playing at Elland Road once again.

He took to Twitter to post a photograph of himself in action for the Whites.

And the striker wrote: "Leeds bound. Looking forward to a return to Elland Road tomorrow night. Some great memories there!"

Leeds have struggled to score goals on a regular basis this season.

Fulham have hugely outscored the Whites, managing 50 goals in their 32 league games, while Leeds have hit the back of the net only 29 times in 31 games.


Read more: http://www.insidefutbol.com/2016/02/22/cant-wait-for-elland-road-return-says-former-leeds-united-hitman/271988/?#ixzz40yejTj4F

 
Giuseppe Bellusci ruled out for Leeds through suspension

Leeds defender Giuseppe Bellusci will miss the home game against Fulham through suspension as he starts a two-game ban after receiving his 10th booking of the season in Saturday's FA Cup defeat at Watford.

Fellow centre-half Liam Cooper is hoping to be fit after missing out at the weekend due to a minor injury, but if he misses out head coach Steve Evans will be short at the back.

Scott Wootton could switch from right-back to central defence with Gaetano Berardi (ankle) closing in on a return after a two-month injury lay-off.

Striker Chris Wood remains sidelined due to the hamstring injury that has kept him out of the last four matches.

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has no fresh injury or suspension worries.

The Cottagers boss admitted that he got his team line-up wrong in the first half of their 3-0 win against Charlton at the weekend and is likely to shake up his starting 11.

Chris Baird and Michael Madl are expected to start at Elland Road after coming off the bench against the Addicks, while Dan Burn is available after overcoming a hamstring injury.

Cauley Woodrow (broken metatarsal) and Lasse Christensen (hamstring) are both still unavailable.


http://www.espnfc.co.uk/english-league-championship/match/423115/leeds-united-fulham/preview

 
Newcastle U21s 0-3 Fulham: Peter Beardsley's second string downed by Cottagers

Newcastle United's Under-21 side were beaten 3-0 at home by Fulham, with Stephen Humphrys grabbing a brace for the visitors

Newcastle United's Under-21 side lost 3-0 to Fulham's second-string side at Whitley Park as defenders Jake Trodd and Ben Kitchen made their debuts.

A brace from Stephen Humphrys and a goal from Mikolaj Kweitniewski were enough to give the Cottagers a comfortable win on Tyneside on Monday afternoon.

Peter Beardsley's side travel to Brighton & Hove Albion next time out, hoping to bounce back from this defeat.

It was the visitors who started the brightest, and they took the lead in the ninth minute when Kweitniewski curled an effort past Freddie Woodman in the United goal.

After Liam Smith had cleared an effort off the line at one end, Beardsley's side responded immediately and Callum Smith was denied an equaliser when his effort smashed back off the woodwork.

It was then Fulham's turn to hit the post, Aaron Redford rattling the woodwork before Ben Pollock gave away a penalty.

Humphrys stepped up to score his first of the afternoon from the spot in the 32nd minute, and at half-time the visitors led 2-0.

The home side started better in the second 45 though, Dan Barlaser testing the Fulham keeper, before Woodman pulled off a save of his own at the other end.

After Humphrys had been denied twice - first by the post, and then by a flying Woodman save - he then wrapped up the victory in injury-time by adding a third.

Newcastle United Under-21s: Woodman, Trodd, Kitchen, L Smith, Pollock, Adu-Peprah, C Smith, Barlaser, McNall, Longstaff, Laidler

Subs: B Smith, Williams, Heaney, Spooner, Loather


http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-u21s-0-3-fulham-10929270?

 
Leeds v Fulham preview


Leeds defender Giuseppe Bellusci will miss the home game against Fulham through suspension as he starts a two-game ban after receiving his 10th booking of the season in Saturday's FA Cup defeat at Watford.

Fellow centre-half Liam Cooper is hoping to be fit after missing out at the weekend due to a minor injury, but if he misses out head coach Steve Evans will be short at the back.

Scott Wootton could switch from right-back to central defence with Gaetano Berardi (ankle) closing in on a return after a two-month injury lay-off.

Striker Chris Wood remains sidelined due to the hamstring injury that has kept him out of the last four matches.

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has no fresh injury or suspension worries.

The Cottagers boss admitted that he got his team line-up wrong in the first half of their 3-0 win against Charlton at the weekend and is likely to shake up his starting 11.

Chris Baird and Michael Madl are expected to start at Elland Road after coming off the bench against the Addicks, while Dan Burn is available after overcoming a hamstring injury.

Cauley Woodrow (broken metatarsal) and Lasse Christensen (hamstring) are both still unavailable.


http://www.skysports.com/football/leeds-vs-fulham/preview/339921?

 
Marcus Bettinelli back in action for Fulham U21s at Newcastle United - seven months after Hull heartbreak

Whites stricken player plays a big part in getting a welcome win in the far north-east for the junior team - his first game since August

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Hell is Hull when you end up like this: Marcus Bettinelli feels the pain

Fulham keeper Marcus Bettinelli made his first tentative steps back to first team action when he kept a clean sheet for the U21s in a 3-0 win at Newcastle United today.

The first-choice shot-stopper for Whites, until the night his world collapsed around him at Hull City in August, stepped out at the Magpies home for reserves and academy, and came through the game unscathed while making two world class saves.

Bettinelli made the breakthrough last season for a struggling Fulham, but when forward Matt Smith accidentally collided with him in the 2-1 defeat at the KC Stadium, both suffered medial ligament damage - with the keeper coming off worst.

Earlier he told the club's website after he was allowed to run again: "It's been a really long road.

"It feels a long time since I was being carried off on a stretcher. It has been tough. But this was the first time I was out running in my football boots.

"It's frustrating and looking out of the gym window and seeing the lads training. But when I went out I was watching it (training) more than running and with Tunners (Ryan Tunnicliffe).

"Me, Matty and Jack Grimmer got known as the Brace brothers around the training ground. I was there for them and they were there for me.

"It was meant to be such a big year for me. But as soon as I hit the deck I knew I was done for a long time."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/marcus-bettinelli-back-action-fulham-10929867?

 
Bettinelli keeps clean sheet on Fulham return
by DAN on FEBRUARY 22, 2016


Marcus Bettinelli kept a clean sheet on his return to Fulham action as the Under 21 side recorded an impressive 3-0 at Newcastle United this afternoon.

The former England under-21 international, who has been sidelined since straining knee ligaments in a horrible collision with Matt Smith during the defeat at Hull City back in August, made an encouraging return to competitive football – coming through the encounter at Whitley Park unscathed and making two excellent saves in the second half. Bettinelli, who had nailed down the number one spot with a series of assured displays last season, will likely continue to feature for the Under 21s to build up his match sharpness before competing with current first choice keeper Andy Lonergan for a return to the first team.

Fulham's excellent victory on Tyneside was secured by a brace from promising striker Stevie Humphries and an opening goal from Mikolaj Kweitniewski. An outstanding through ball from American teenager Luca de la Torre released Kweitniewski, who curled an unstoppable finish between Newcastle keeper Freddie Woodman. Both sides hit the post before the visitors took a firmer grip on the contest when Ben Pollock brought down Kweitniewski in the box. Humphreys confidently converted the penalty and added a third in second half stoppage time after punishing a poor defensive clearance to put a more convincing gloss on the final scoreline.

NEWCASTLE UNDER-21s: Woodman, Trodd, Kitchen, L Smith, Pollock, Adu-Peprah, C Smith, Barlaser, McNall, Longstaff, Laidler. Subs: B Smith, Williams, Heaney, Spooner, Lowther.

FULHAM UNDER-21s: Bettinelli; Bettinelli, Sheckleford, Davies, Donnelly, Elworthy, Smile, Thorsteinsson (Fossey 51), de la Torre, Kwietniewski; Redford (Walker 69), Humphrys. Subs (not used): Norman.


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2016/02/bettinelli-keeps-clean-sheet-on-fulham-return/?

 
Fulham tickets proving popular

Big numbers travelling to Craven Cottage next month.

City are set to be backed by bumper travelling support when they head to Fulham next month.

The Robins haven't visited Craven Cottage since 1997 and it appears fans are looking forward to ending the 19-year absence.

Fans have already snapped up 1,600 tickets for the match in West London on Saturday, March 12th (3pm) and have just received an increased allocation, taking the overall figure to 2,808.

So far 700 tickets have been sold for Saturday's trip to Nottingham Forest, while 230 tickets have been snapped up for the Wolves away game on Tuesday, March 8th.



Read more at http://www.bcfc.co.uk/news/article/fulham-tickets-proving-popular-2968350.aspx#tV0j0chZUsx74sZL.99

 
Baird on His Second Fulham Debut


A lot has changed at Craven Cottage since Chris Baird first arrived on the Fulham scene.

Now back at Craven Cottage for a second spell, albeit on loan from Derby County until the end of the season, Baird will have noticed that the Premier League and that wonderful night we reached the Europa League Final, are but distant memories.

These days our primary concern is too make sure our fine club doesn`t drop into the relegation zone and plunge down into League One, a fate that would be too awful to contemplate.

Baird, having joined last week on loan, made his second debut for Fulham coming on as a half-time substitute in our fine 3-0 win over Charlton Athletic, on Saturday, talking to the media about the experience, this is what the thirty-three year-old Irishman had to say,

"A massive win. Three goals, clean sheet. Pretty strange game. Charlton played well in the first half.

"The manager`s changed it in the second half - I thought we were a lot better. We are not in a great position but you can see the quality is there."

It sure is, it just needs knitting together and cajoling along.

Nice to see you back though Chris.



Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=436211#ixzz40yheYX3Z

 
Leeds United v Fulham

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Leeds have failed to score in five of their past nine league games against Fulham

How to follow
BBC Coverage:
Listen on BBC Radio 5 live and BBC local radio; text commentary on the BBC Sport website

TEAM NEWS

Leeds defender Giuseppe Bellusci is suspended for two games after picking up his 10th booking of the season against Watford in the FA Cup.

Scott Wootton could switch from right-back to central defence with Gaetano Berardi (ankle) closing in on a return after a two-month injury lay-off.

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has revealed he has no fresh injury concerns.

But defender Dan Burn will return to the side after a hamstring problem.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head
Leeds have failed to score in five of their past nine league games against Fulham (W3 D2 L4).
Fulham have only won one of their past seven second tier games at Elland Road (D2 L4).
Tom Cairney has scored in two of his past three for Fulham. He had gone 18 games in all competitions without scoring prior to that.
Fulham have won just one of their past nine games on the road (D3 L5).

 
If Leeds drop Scott Wootton following FA Cup howler, Marco Silvestri's place should also come into serious question

The goalkeeper was arguably just as responsible for the goal that knocked the Whites out of the FA Cup.

Steve Evans may feel forced to drop Scott Wootton for Leeds' game with Fulham on Tuesday after the defender's own goal proved to be the difference during the Whites' FA Cup tie with Watford on Saturday, but if he decides to drop the 24-year-old because of the mistake, then Marco Silvestri's place should also be in some doubt for the visit of the Cottagers.

Despite having little danger around him, Wootton managed to volley Ben Watson's cross into the bottom corner during the early stages of the second-half at Vicarage Road.

And while the majority of the 4,200 supporters in the away end let Evans know exactly what they thought of his decision to continually select the defender at right-back, his mistake would arguably have not been anywhere near as costly if Silvestri had made his mind up about whether he was coming for the cross or staying on his line.

As Wootton had his back to a sizeable amount of the play by the time the ball was flying across the six-yard box, the Italian would have had a much better view, so should have known that there was much less danger than his teammate appeared to think there was.

Secondly, if he had been more decisive, he may have been able to cut out the cross before it reached Wootton at the back post, while if he had decided to stay on his line, he would have almost certainly been able to prevent the defender's attempted clearance from finding the back of the net.

However, an incident such as this appears to have been on the cards for several weeks, and may well happen again if Evans does not show to both Wootton and Silvestri that he is willing to drop them.

During the first-half against the Hornets, the 24-year-old threatened to fly out to try and collect a corner that was never in his path. Luckily for Evans' men on that occasion, Miguel Britos was unable to steer his header on target, as if he had managed to do so, and had got enough loop on the attempt, he may have managed to exploit the recklessness with which Silvestri had moved off his line.

While the former Chievo man's shot-stopping ability has been impressive on numerous occasions this season - and has kept his side in games at times - his decision-making is not the only aspect of his game that should worry United fans, as his distribution remains a concern.

Although some may be wary that currently Evans' only other option would be to throw Bailey Peacock-Farrell into the side if he was to drop Silvestri, the 16 point gap separating the Whites from the Championship's top six suggests that the final 15 games of the campaign may be the perfect opportunity for the youngster to show why he is so highly-rated at Elland Road.

The 19-year-old will not be the finished article, but with the play-off places such a long way away, Evans will surely have no better chance to give the academy graduate a run in the team without the pressure of worrying about making a mistake. Plus, it will show to Silvestri that he needs to maintain a high standard if he wishes to remain in the team.

If Evans is to achieve his aim of challenging for promotion next season (via Yorkshire Evening Post), then he is almost certainly not going to be keen on the idea of turning to his substitute goalkeeper if he is still unexposed to the demands of first-team football, so will find himself having to continue to select a stopper who every so often makes a huge blunder.

While Wootton cannot defend his mistake, it could have been a lot less significant to the overall result against Watford had his goalkeeper not made a mistake of his own in the build up, and for that reason, it seems somewhat unfair - and would arguably prove the wrong decision - if one is dropped while the other maintains their place in the side.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2016/02/22/if-leeds-drop-scott-wootton-for-fa-cup-howler-marco-silvestris-p/?

 
Can Leeds get back to winning ways against the cottagers?

Leeds United and Fulham meet at Elland Road on Tuesday night with three important points up for grabs.

Leeds can now concentrate on their position in the Championship after going out of the FA Cup at the weekend.

Currently on 37 points, Leeds will be hoping to pull further away from the relegation places with a win against Fulham.

Fulham have shown signs of a revival recently and their win over Charlton Athletic on Saturday moved them to within two points of Leeds.


Read more: http://www.leeds.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=436230#ixzz40yimmifH

 
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Leeds United Lineup Vs Fulham: Cooper And Mowatt To Start

After being knocked out of the FA Cup in disappointing fashion by Watford, Leeds United will return to Elland Road to host fellow Championship strugglers Fulham. Leeds are winless in their last three games and will come up against a side who are in good form after having won their last two games by scoring a combined six goals.

The defeat against Watford once again showed what Leeds have been lacking whole season; a good and proven goal scorer. There were moments when the Leeds fans thought they were in with a chance of scoring but the attackers simply weren't good enough in the final third and the Watford defense was relatively untested.

Relegation is unlikely for Steve Evans' side and with nothing to play for, the game could be a dull one. The two sides are separated by two points, although Fulham have played a game more. The last time these two faced off, the game ended 1-1. We could be in for another stalemate.

Here's how the hosts are expected to line up for the upcoming clash.

Marco Silvestri will line up in goal. In front of him, we are likely to see the return of centre-back Liam Cooper. The 24-year old will play in place of Giuseppe Bellusci as the Italian will start the first of his two-game ban tomorrow. Cooper is expected to line up alongside Sol Bamba at the back.

Scott Wootton and Charlie Taylor will play as the two full-backs. Wootton's awful clearance ended up in his own net against Watford and the 24-year old will want to make up for a poor game against the Hornets.

Alex Mowatt could start alongside Liam Bridcutt in the central midfield. Mowatt is yet to feature in a full game after making his return from an injury. Lewis Cook could play as the attacking midfielder and he'll be supported by the duo of Start Dallas and Souleymane Doukara the wide areas. Doukara will drift inwards more often considering he is a centre-forward.

Mirco Antenucci will lead the line once again. The Italian got into some good positions but lacked the end product as his goal drought continues.


http://the4thofficial.net/2016/02/22/predicted-4-2-3-1-leeds-united-lineup-vs-fulham-cooper-and-mowatt-to-start/?

 
Match Leeds United And Our Quality Will Show Through Insists Fulham Star

Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney insists that it will be important for his side to build on their impressive last result at Elland Road against Leeds United on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old found the back of the net twice this Saturday as his side beat fellow Championship outfit Charlton Athletic 3-0 at home to create distance between themselves and the relegation zone.

Consistency has been key issue for the Cottagers this season with Slavisa Jokanovic's side having lost two, won two and drawn one of their last five league matches.

Cairney wants his side to start to build winning momentum and is therefore eager to see his side replicate their weekend win at Elland Road where they are scheduled to take on Steve Evans' Leeds tomorrow.

According to former Hull man, it will be important for his side to match the hosts in all the departments, something which he feels will allow Fulham's quality shine through.

Speaking about Saturday's result, the midfielder said in an interview with his club's official website: "I think we owed it to ourselves. Our form against QPR was brilliant.

"It was disappointing the way things went on Tuesday night [with our defeat to Blackburn]."

Speaking about the weekend's positive performance, Cairney added: "We had to put it right. We have done it in the best style in the end.

"We will need to go to Elland Road full of confidence.

"If we make sure our attitude is right and we match them in every department then hopefully our quality will come through."


Read more: http://www.insidefutbol.com/2016/02/22/match-leeds-united-and-our-quality-will-show-through-insists-fulham-star/272018/#ixzz40ykIFAWR

 
BETTINELLI MAKES FIRST TENTATIVE STEPS BACK

Fulham keeper Marcus Bettinelli made his first tentative steps back to first team action when he kept a clean sheet for the U21s in a 3-0 win at Newcastle United today.

The first-choice shot-stopper for Whites, until the night his world collapsed around him at Hull City in August, stepped out at the Magpies home for reserves and academy, and came through the game unscathed while making two world class saves.

Bettinelli made the breakthrough last season for a struggling Fulham, but when forward Matt Smith accidentally collided with him in the 2-1 defeat at the KC Stadium, both suffered medial ligament damage - with the keeper coming off worst.

Earlier when he was allowed to run again he said: "It's been a really long road.

"It feels a long time since I was being carried off on a stretcher. It has been tough. But this was the first time I was out running in my football boots.

"It's frustrating and looking out of the gym window and seeing the lads training. But when I went out I was watching it (training) more than running and with Tunners (Ryan Tunnicliffe).

"Me, Matty and Jack Grimmer got known as the Brace brothers around the training ground. I was there for them and they were there for me.

"It was meant to be such a big year for me. But as soon as I hit the deck I knew I was done for a long time."


http://www.fulhamweb.co.uk/news/bettinelli-makes-first-tentative-steps-back.aspx?

 
Leeds Utd v Fulham: My signings have improved us by some distance, insists Steve Evans

AS HEARTENING as Leeds United's performances against all but Brighton & Hove Albion of the promotion-chasing pack have been this term, Elland Road has not been a happy hunting ground for the club.

Just four wins and 12 goals from 16 league games in front of their own fans is a wretched return.

Only Aston Villa and Dagenham & Redbridge with 10 apiece have scored fewer on home soil in the top six divisions of English football.

"To score goals you need a goalscorer," said head coach Steve Evans when asked yesterday about the lack of goals. "Chris Wood is a goalscorer, but he has been injured over half of the time (Evans has been in charge).

"So, I am looking at the rest of the squad and who is going to genuinely get us goals? Not just from the strikers, but from wide positions and from midfield.

"I know what we need to strengthen, I know the type of player, but I need to be allowed to build my team and work with them."

Since succeeding Uwe Rosler in October, Evans has been able to make just three additions.

"Does (Toumani) Diagouraga make us better?" he added. "Does (Liam) Bridcutt make us better? Does (Mustapha) Carayol make us better?

"There is another question for the Leeds fans. Without Digaouraga, without Bridcutt and without Carayol coming in, do they think we would be a in a relegation fight come the end of the season?

"I have only brought three players in and have they improved us? And the answer is, 'By some distance'.

"The one thing that I don't forget is that when I first accepted the job at Leeds United, I had one remit from the owner – to stay up – because everyone, including a lot of Leeds United supporters who I have known for years, thought they were going down."

Wood will again be missing for United with a hamstring strain, but Gaetano Berardi is back in the squad after coming through an Under-21s game yesterday along with a fit-again Liam Cooper.



Read more: http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/leeds-utd-v-fulham-my-signings-have-improved-us-by-some-distance-insists-steve-evans-1-7743650#ixzz40ykzEso1

 
Pringle: I Didn't Turn Down Town

Town new boy Ben Pringle has dismissed claims that he rejected a move to Portman Road last summer.

Pringle, 26, has been recruited on an initial one-month loan deal from Championship rivals Fulham and after making his debut in the recent 2-1 defeat at Bristol City he is set to make his first home appearance in tonight's clash with top-of-the-table Hull.

But reports that he turned down a move to Ipswich in favour of joining Fulham when his contract at Rotherham expired last summer are well wide of the mark, he insisted.

Asked about interest in him during the 2015 close season, Pringle said: "There wasn't a lot really. I know there have been a few people on Twitter saying I turned Ipswich down and things like that but it never got to that point.

"I knew Mick was interested. One of my good friends at Rotherham speaks to Lids [Town fitness coach Andy Liddell] quite often so we knew about it then, although nothing came from it.

"At the time, when I was leaving Rotherham , I was open to pretty much anything, so it was just a case of who showed interest enough and who wanted to do it. Fulham were the frontrunners and I went there."

But although the left-footed midfielder was a regular under the man who signed him, Kit Symons, another change of manager at Craven Cottage – ex-Watford boss Slavisa Jokanovic took charge soon after Christmas – left Pringle out in the cold.

He added: "You get to that point where you think 'Enough's enough, I need to play games'. With Rotherham I played the majority of the games for three seasons so it was maybe nice to have a little bit of a rest for a couple of months, not playing and just training.

"But you get to the point where you've had enough of that and you want to be playing. Every player would be like that I think. I spoke to the 72 managers they had in the last month at Fulham and I spoke to plenty of different people.

"There was only so often I could knock the door down and ask 'Where do you see playing?'. When the loan window opened it was pretty straightforward really for me to go out.

"I started the first 11 or 12 games and we were just outside the play-offs and it was by no means a case of me not being good enough to play or anything like that. But Kit went and Peter Grant came in, Stuart Gray came in and then Jokanovic came in.

"I think the dynamics of the team is to get the ball down and play through the middle. They don't really have wide players standing on the byline, putting the ball in, which sounds old school but it's a category you could put me in."

Pringle is determined to make the most of his time with Town, adding: "I'm not really looking too far forward. It's up to Fulham because that's who I play for and that's all I can say really.

"I know I'll enjoy my time here and beyond that we'll just have to wait and see what happens."


http://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/29104/?

 
Fulham midfielder makes demand of team-mates ahead of trip to Leeds United

Baird only re-joined the Whites on loan on Thursday but played the second half of the 3-0 win against relegation-threatened Charlton

(http://i3.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article10923882.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Madl-goal.jpg)
Goal: Michael Madl gets mobbed against Charlton

Chris Baird is urging Fulham to put together a string of consistent performances ahead of Tuesday night's Leeds clash at Elland Road.

The midfielder only re-joined the Whites on loan on Thursday but played the second half of the 3-0 win against relegation-threatened Charlton.

But Fulham have developed a habit of following up victories with defeats, and it is one which Baird hopes he can help quash.

The 33-year-old said: "That's the issue now. We have to eradicate mistakes, and away from home be more solid.

"But we'll go there with confidence after today's win. The players that have been here know this experience, they've won 3-1 (against QPR) then lost 3-0 (at Blackburn).

"We will be hoping that that doesn't happen again, everyone will be working hard together and trying to put in another good performance and another good result."

Fulham have followed up clinical victory with heavy defeat twice already this season - both times beating rivals QPR.

And their inconsistency is emphasised by the fact that they have only won back-to-back matches twice this season - the last coming in October.

Baird, though, knows the quality of the club will keep them the right side of the Championship relegation line.

He added after the Charlton win: "Of course we are not in a great position but you can see the quality is there.

"Some really good individual performances today - especially from Tom Cairney with two good goals. The leader as well, Scotty Parker, was absolutely fantastic.

"There's the quality in the squad, it's just a matter of gelling together. There are a few youngsters in the squad who need to be a bit more vocal, but hopefully that'll come.

"We'll just enjoy today, the performance and the win."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-midfielder-makes-demand-team-10926636?

 
LUFC Kevin Wright in charge of Fulham clash

Kevin Wright will be the man in charge of the clash between Leeds United and Fulham.

The Cambridgeshire official has taken charge of 25 games so far this season showing 78 yellow cards and 4 reds.

Wright was last in charge of Leeds in November 2014 at Blackburn Rovers. On that occasion, he sent off Tom Cairney for Blackburn before awarding the Lancashire club a dodgy penalty after Luke Varney threw himself to the ground. The decision proved crucial with Blackburn scoring the winning goal from the spot in a 2-1 win.

Despite this being his thirteenth season on the national list, this will be his first game involving Fulham.

Referee: KEVIN WRIGHT (Cambridgeshire)
Assistants: Barry Gordon and Matthew McGrath
Fourth Official: Mark Heywood


Read more: http://www.leeds.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=436260#ixzz40ymIueKy

 
Ipswich Town midfielder Ben Pringle discusses why it hasn't worked at Fulham, set pieces and comparisons to Ryan Fraser

New signing Ben Pringle tackles a range of questions ahead of Ipswich Town's clash with Hull City this evening.B

Pringle on...his first few weeks at Ipswich Town

"Coming here I wanted to play as many games as I could and it was a nice start to be thrown in, so I'm just looking forward now to trying to play as many games as possible.

"I think I did quite well in the first half but the game changed in the second, but physically I felt fine and felt as though I could complete the game, although obviously I'll get stronger.

"I'm looking forward now, really.

Pringle on...why things haven't worked out at Fulham

"I knew when I signed at Fulham, having played every single week at Rotherham for a good three years, compared to Fulham where I knew I might not play every week and there were times I might be on the bench.

"I believed in my ability, though, and I didn't think what happened at Fulham would happen. It was frustrating at times but I'm delighted to come here and play games.

"There have been a lot of changes go on at the club, they've changed the way they want to do things a number of times during the season. The style of play is maybe different to what I'd like to play."

Pringle on...Ipswich's interest in the summer

"Not a lot really, I know there have been a few people on Twitter saying I've turned Ipswich down and things like that but it never got to that point.

"I knew Mick was interest. One of my good friends at Rotherham speaks to Lidds (Andy Liddell) quite often so we knew about it then, although nothing came from it.

"At the time, when I was leaving Rotherham, I was open to pretty much anything, so it was just a case of who showed interest enough and who wanted to do it.

"Fulham were the frontrunners and I went there."

Pringle on...his playing style

"I like to put balls into the box and create chances, whether that's coming inside or whether it's staying out wide and putting balls in. I like to make things happen and get about the pitch, whether it's out wide or in the middle.

"Let's hope I can do that."

Pringle on...comparisons to Ryan Fraser

"I haven't stopped hearing about him to be honest!

"He's completely different to what I am. From what I gather he's little and runs at people quite quickly. I don't think fans are going to be expecting that from me.

"The gaffer's said 'we've brought you in to create chances and that's to put balls in the box' so I know what I've got to try and do and with those strikers in the team it shouldn't be a problem.

Pringle on...his career so far

"I've been pretty much all over, but coming up with Rotherham from League Two to League One, you want to try and stay at the highest level possible.

"To get a loan move from Fulham, down the middle, to Ipswich up the top is really good.

"I'll never forget about the (non-league) times. You can almost laugh about it now but they were pretty tough, it helps keep you feet on the ground and makes you appreciate the training ground and everything else which comes with a club like this.

Pringle on...young players coming through

"That's what it should be about for the lads coming through, they get the under 21 games and things like that but they never really get the experience of a proper game.

"If you sign for Ilkeston Town in the Unibond Premier League you soon find out what kind of player you are.

"I think it needs to be addressed differently but that's just my opinion.

Pringle on...making his home debut against Hull

"I can't wait, I've played here before with Rotherham so know the stadium and the atmosphere is about so it should be good.

"It will be a tough game but with the players we have in the squad and the style we like to play, we should be enough for everyone."

Pringle on...set pieces

"I'm always around the set-pieces, looking to get involved. I know there are a few other boys who fancy it as well so it's about weighing up what's best at the time."

Pringle on...the future

"I'm not really looking too far forward and it's up to Fulham though because that's who I play for. That's all I can say on that really to be honest so we'll have to wait and see.

"I know I'll enjoy time here and we'll have to wait and see what happens."


http://www.sudburymercury.co.uk/sport/ipswich_town_midfielder_ben_pringle_discusses_why_it_hasn_t_worked_at_fulham_set_pieces_and_comparisons_to_ryan_fraser_1_4428927

 
Leeds United v Fulham: Big match preview

Check out our at-a-glance guide to Leeds United's clash with Fulham at Elland Road.

(http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/webimage/1.7743798.1456216044!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/articleMaxWidth_620/image.jpg)

Ross McCormack v Liam Cooper: Leeds are not exactly raining goals at the minute – the Whites have not scored for 321 minutes of football – and their prospects surely hinge on keeping a clean sheet. Cooper missed Saturday's FA Cup loss at Watford with injury but looks set to return to partner Sol Bamba at centre-back with Giuseppe Bellusci suspended. Between them, they must keep top scorer McCormack quiet but remember that fellow forward Moussa Dembele has 12 goals for the season as well.


KEY MAN

Ross McCormack: Who else? Sold by Leeds to Fulham for £11m in July 2014 and now makes his second visit back to Elland Road since. McCormack failed to score on his first trip back to Leeds in December 2014 but the Scot has already notched 18 league and cup goals this season, just one shy of his entire tally for last term. Keep an eye also on midfielder Tom Cairney who bagged a brace in Saturday's 3-0 win against Charlton.

LAST TIME AT ELLAND ROAD

Saturday, December 13, 2014: Leeds United 0 Fulham 1. Goals: Hugo Rodallega (60).

EXPERT VIEW

Lee Sobot says: A strange feeling to a game between two sides who already have next to nothing to play for. Leeds, in 17th, are 16 points off the play-offs but 11 points clear of the drop zone, and two points and one place above Fulham. If United perform the way they did in the goalless draw against Middlesbrough they ought to win, granted a bit more ruthlessness in front of goal. The worry is that Fulham will park the bus and hit Leeds on the counter which appears a good way to beat them.

BETTING

Odds: Home win – 31-20; draw – 2-1; away win – 5-2.



Read more: http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/latest-lufc-news/leeds-united-v-fulham-big-match-preview-1-7743800#ixzz40yngzg9g

 
Manchester United consider shock summer swoop for international ace
MANCHESTER UNITED are considering a summer move for Fulham midfielder Emerson Hyndman.

(http://cdn.images.dailystar.co.uk/dynamic/58/photos/485000/620x/56cc3740909ae_GettyImages477186738.jpg)
TARGET: Emerson Hyndman is a USA international

The USA international is out of contract at Craven Cottage at the end of the season and would be available on a free transfer.

And the Daily Mail report the Red Devils are closely monitoring the 19-year-old's situation.

Hyndman joined Fulham's academy in 2011 and was handed his first-team debut in August 2014

He has made 11 appearances this season but with the Cottagers languishing in the bottom half of the Championship, Hyndman is expected to move on when his contract expires.

A host of clubs have been linked with the teenager including German giants Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Wolfsburg while Tottenham and West Ham are also reportedly interested.

Last week Here Is The City cited a Fulham insider who claimed United were leading the chase for his signature.

They said: "He looks to be on his way, we have been told of a number of clubs who want him and are offering big deals, but United look to be in the strongest position."

Should Hyndman complete a move to Old Trafford, it is likely he would immediately be sent out on loan to aid his development.


http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/496456/Manchester-United-summer-swoop-Fulham-midfielder-Emerson-Hyndman

 
'Is that a serious question?' - What made Leeds boss Evans snap ahead of Fulham clash?

Leeds head coach Steve Evans was in tetchy mood ahead of the club's midweek Championship clash.

Leeds United head coach Steve Evans was in a tetchy mood ahead of the club's midweek clash with Fulham.

He snapped at a reporter during his pre-match interview for BBC Radio Leeds, who asked him about his plans for next season.

The exchange went as follows...

BBC Radio Leeds: "Some fans are questioning Leeds United's promotion credentials for next season, how can you convince them that they are good enough for promotion, that you can get them promoted next season Steve?"

Steve Evans: "Is that a serious question?"

BBC Radio Leeds: "Yeah, it's just based on fan's feedback that we've had, that was all."

Steve Evans: "OK. Well, what we are going to do is we are going to keep the best of the players we have got now, and we are going to add, very selectively to the group in the summer. And by the time we get off and running in July at Thorp Arch, there will be a top six squad put in place.

"I am one of the few managers in recent years, not the best, that has a track record when he has told supporters that when he will put a promotion squad on the pitch, that has followed and got supported. I have 100 per cent belief I will get supported to put that squad in place, and that's my objective."

Evans is clearly confident he will get the backing of Massimo Cellino in the transfer market, and judging by his comments, Leeds are likely to be one of the early transfer movers in the upcoming window, if they intend on doing the majority of their transfer business by July.

The head coach may be tiring of repeating himself, but if he can't understand why supporters are questioning the fact that a team sitting in 17th position in the Championship table will quickly turn everything around then there is a disconnect.

Leeds need to start winning games now to instil a bit of belief, victorious in just eight league games out of 31 this campaign.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2016/02/22/is-that-a-serious-question-what-made-leeds-boss-evans-snap-ahead/?

 
BAIRD URGES FULHAM TO STAND FIRM AT LEEDS

Fulham midfielder Chris Baird is urging Fulham to put together a string of consistent performances ahead of Tuesday night's Leeds clash at Elland Road.

The midfielder only re-joined the Whites on loan on Thursday but played the second half of the 3-0 win against relegation-threatened Charlton.

But Fulham have developed a habit of following up victories with defeats, and it is one which Baird hopes he can help quash.

The 33-year-old said: "That's the issue now. We have to eradicate mistakes, and away from home be more solid.

"But we'll go there with confidence after today's win. The players that have been here know this experience, they've won 3-1 (against QPR) then lost 3-0 (at Blackburn).

"We will be hoping that that doesn't happen again, everyone will be working hard together and trying to put in another good performance and another good result."

Fulham have followed up clinical victory with heavy defeat twice already this season - both times beating rivals QPR.

And their inconsistency is emphasised by the fact that they have only won back-to-back matches twice this season - the last coming in October.

Baird, though, knows the quality of the club will keep them the right side of the Championship relegation line.

He added after the Charlton win: "Of course we are not in a great position but you can see the quality is there.

"Some really good individual performances today - especially from Tom Cairney with two good goals. The leader as well, Scotty Parker, was absolutely fantastic.

"There's the quality in the squad, it's just a matter of gelling together. There are a few youngsters in the squad who need to be a bit more vocal, but hopefully that'll come.

"We'll just enjoy today, the performance and the win."


http://www.fulhamweb.co.uk/news/baird-urges-fulham-to-stand-firm-at-leeds.aspx?

 
Leeds United Flashback

Take a look back at last season's visit to Elland Road, where a Hugo Rodallega goal ensured the Whites took all three points back to SW6.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2016/february/23/leeds-united-flashback?

 
I Want Run In Leeds United Team, Sol Bamba Admits

Leeds United defender Sol Bamba has insisted that he wants to play regularly, ahead of his side's Championship meeting with Fulham tonight.

Bamba, who featured in the 1-0 loss to Watford in an FA Cup game at the weekend, lost his place in the starting line-up earlier this season, with manager Steve Evans preferring Liam Cooper and Giuseppe Bellusci over the Ivorian.

The 31-year-old played at Vicarage Road, owing to Cooper's injury; the 24-year-old is set to return to action against the Cottagers.

However, with Bellusci suspended for two games for picking up 10 yellow cards in the present campaign, Bamba is expected to play against Fulham at Elland Road.

And the centre-back, whose last league outing came during the 1-1 draw with MK Dons on 2nd January, is hopeful about getting an extended run in the team.

"Obviously every game is a bonus for me", Bamba said on LUTV ahead of the Fulham game.

"I just want to play like everyone else.

"It was good to play [against Watford] and hopefully that will be the case on Tuesday again."

Bamba, who joined Leeds from Palermo in January 2015 before making his move permanent in the summer, has made 20 appearances in all competitions for the Whites this season, scoring once.


http://www.insidefutbol.com/2016/02/23/i-want-run-in-leeds-united-team-sol-bamba-admits/272110/?

 
Preview: Out of form Leeds face Fulham at Elland Road

Leeds go into tonight's match with Fulham having won just one league game in 2016. London Fulham meanwhile picked up a 3-0 win over Charlton in their last outing.

Leeds are badly out of form with their only league victory in 2016 coming against Bristol City, a 1-0 win in which United won a poor contest thanks to a Souleymane Doukara goal.

Opponents Fulham have been inconsistent since the turn of the year.

The Cottagers have enjoyed some great wins against London rivals QPR and Charlton, but they have suffered disappointing lows as well. Defeats against Blackburn (3-0) and Wolves (3-2) spring to mind.

There are positives for Fulham though, as midfielder Tom Cairney produced a stellar performance against Charlton last time out. The former Leeds academy product put the Addicks to the sword and finished the match with two well taken goals, helping his side to a 3-0 win.

Leeds were beaten 1-0 at Watford thanks to a Scott Wootton own goal. It was a disappointing performance and Leeds are now out of the cup and the season is over.

In terms of team news, Leeds defender Bellusci is suspended for two matches after picking up a 10th booking of the season. Gaetano Berardi should be named on the bench by Steve Evans after returning from injury.

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has revealed that he has no fresh injury concerns, and towering defender Dan Burn could return to the side after a hamstring problem.

Whilst Fulham have been inconsistent recently, Leeds have been struggling to find the net and they are still conceding poor goals.

Fulham have been finding the net far more than we have and despite their leaky defence (53 conceded this season in the league) I'm backing them to take all three points.

We will be without Chris Wood once again and the goals have dried up. Fulham have a far stronger range of attacking options in Dembele, McCormack, and the aerial threat that is Smith.

Prediction: Leeds 0-2 Fulham

TEAM STATS AND FACTS:

LEEDS: 17th with 37 points, scoring 29 and conceding 34 with a goal difference of -5.

Top Scorer: New Zealand striker Chris Wood (8). Misses tonight's game.

Top Assister: Stuart Dallas (4).

Clean Sheets: 7

Won: 8

Drawn: 13

Lost: 10

FULHAM: 18th with 35 points, scoring 50 and conceding 53. Goal difference of -3.

Top Scorer: Ross McCormack (16).

Top Assister: Ross McCormack (7).

Clean Sheets: 3

Won: 8

Drawn: 11

Lost: 13

Safe journey to all attending the game.


http://www.fansnetwork.co.uk/football/leedsunited/news/42102/?

 
Keep Standards Set Against Middlesbrough, Defender Urges Leeds United

Leeds United defender Sol Bamba wants his side to put in a similar display against Fulham tonight to that they produced versus Middlesbrough last week.

The Whites, who were knocked out of the FA Cup after losing 1-0 to Premier League outfit Watford at the weekend, headed into the game at Vicarage Road on the back of a goalless draw against Middlesbrough at Elland Road, a good achievement given the two teams' vast contrast in league positions.

While Boro are currently two points adrift of top spot in the Championship with a game in hand, Leeds presently find themselves 17th in the standings.

And Bamba, who feels Leeds should follow the standards they set against Middlesbrough for the rest of the season, called on his side to put in another impressive display at Elland Road against Fulham.

"Middlesbrough was a great performance, they are top of the league and we played very well against them", he said on LUTV.

"I think we set the standards and need to keep going like that both home and away, especially home.

"So hopefully Tuesday will be the same."

The corresponding league fixture between Leeds and Fulham ended in a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage in October.


Read more: http://www.insidefutbol.com/2016/02/23/keep-standards-set-against-middlesbrough-defender-urges-leeds-united/272068/#ixzz40zhqAp00

 
Leeds United Factfile

Fulham will be looking to secure back-to-back wins and move above Leeds United in the process at Elland Road on Tuesday evening (7.45pm).


The opposition

Since Steve Evans took charge back in October, results have been a mixed bag for Leeds as they have won and lost six games, drawing eight. One of those came at Craven Cottage in his first game in the hotseat, where Chris Wood's penalty cancelled out Moussa Dembélé's opener to ensure the spoils were shared.

They've only won once in the last nine matches going into Tuesday's encounter, although they have claimed two FA Cup victories in that time. They exited the competition 1-0 at the hands of top-flight Watford on Saturday.

Team news

Centre-back Giuseppe Bellusci will serve the first of a two-game ban after picking up his 10th booking of the season at the weekend. Gaetano Berardi made his first appearance since December when he got 45 minutes for the Under-21s on Monday, and Evans has confirmed he'll be in the squad for the visit of Fulham. Liam Cooper is also fit after sitting out the defeat by the Hornets.

Tickets

Tickets will be available to buy on the gate for the bargain price of £40 for adults and from £16 for concessions.

Weather

It will be dry but chilly in Leeds, with temperatures of around four degrees.

How to get there

Trains to Leeds from London Kings Cross take around two-and-a-quarter hours, and Elland Road is a 10-minute taxi ride at the other end. Please note there are no return trains available after the game.

Pre-match

Wetherspoons and the Scarborough Taps at the train station will get fairly busy, so a walk into town may be your best bet, time permitting.

Coral match odds

Leeds: 6/4

Draw: 12/5

Fulham: 19/10

Last time we met

A frustrating evening in South-West London saw Fulham and Leeds draw 1-1 in October. Dembélé's fine solo effort had given the Whites the lead, only for the visitors to draw level through Chris Wood's contentious penalty. Full debutant Joe Lewis got two hands to his spot-kick but couldn't quite keep it out, but he was otherwise imperious, making a number of key saves to keep his side on level terms.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2016/february/23/leeds-united-factfile?

 
LUFC Doukara to set Leeds on their way?

Leeds United and Fulham meet this evening in a SkyBet Championship clash.

Both teams will be hoping for a win as they look to pull away from the bottom six in the division.

Leeds have won just once in the league in 2016 whilst Fulham come into the game having won two of their last three games.

SkyBet make Leeds 7/5 favourites to claim the three points, Fulham are 9/5 and it is 5/2 on the draw.

Souleymane Doukara is once again expected to lead the Leeds attack with Chris Wood still on the sidelines. Doukara has hit four goals since returning to the side since the turn of the year and he is 11/2 to score the first goal this evening.

Ross McCormack returns to Elland Road this evening. McCormack left Leeds for Fulham in a big money move in the summer of 2014 and he has failed to score in the three meetings between the two sides since the move. McCormack is 5/1 to break that duck with the opening goal of the game.

For a full list of odds go to SkyBet

*Odds subject to fluctuation and correct at the time of print. Please gamble responsibly.



Read more: http://www.leeds.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=436262#ixzz40ziRc0Hk

 
Shrewsbury Bow Out

Jack Grimmer played the full 90 minutes as Shrewsbury Town bowed out of the Emirates FA Cup at the hands of Manchester United, while Larnell Cole was introduced at half-time against his former club.


The visitors took the lead in the Fifth Round tie at Greenhous Meadow through former Fulham man Chris Smalling. The United captain struck a shot into the ground that bounced over the dive of Shrews goalkeeper Jayson Leutwiler.

It was 2-0 in first half stoppage time when Juan Mata curled a fine free-kick over the wall, but there was more than a hint of controversy about it as two United players were in an offside position as it was taken.

Jesse Lingard made it three just after the hour mark when he got on the end of a neat Ander Herrera pass to poke home.

Shrewsbury's best chance came in the 87th minute when Grimmer sent over a perfect cross to the unmarked Abu Ogogo, but his header sailed way off target.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2016/february/23/shrewsbury-bow-out?

 
BETTING PREVIEW: LEEDS VS FULHAM
Betting partner Coral preview Tuesday's visit of Fulham

Coral make Leeds the slight favourites for Tuesday's visit of Fulham, quoting 6/4 for the Home Win. Fulham haven't offered much on the road recently, winning just one of their last 10 away from home, but there looks to be better value in other markets.

Under 2.5 Goals has paid out in eight of the last ten matches, including the last three. Coral offer an odds-on 17/20 , but with Leeds' solid recent defensive record – just four conceded in the last six – and current lack of goals, it looks solid.

The Draw makes some appeal . No team has drawn more matches than Leeds this season, including three of the last six at Home. Fulham have drawn five of their last 11 away games and the reverse fixture at Craven Cottage also ended level.

Coral are paying 12/5 , or a bigger 19/5 for the match to be level at Half-time and Full-time (the Half-time/ Full-time market).

You'll get 5/1 for a repeat of the 1-1 Score Line from earlier in the season. But for a 'Hollywood' bet, you're best bet is a dabble in the Goal Scorer markets.

Mirco Antenucci and Souleymane Doukara  again head the betting at 11/2 to score the First Goal and 6/4 Anytime .
Doukara looks a good bet, with a decent four goals from his last nine outings. Three of those paying out at First Goal Scorer.

Don't forget, Coral also offer a Cash Out facility. Allowing you to take a profit before the match has even finished. So if you back the 1-1 Correct Score at 5/1 and that's the score with 15 minutes left – you will be offered the chance to take a guaranteed profit at a slightly smaller price. No need to bite you nails until the end of the game, when you can take your money and run!


- See more at: http://www.leedsunited.com/news/article/18cp6900p0fwe15qw9m8utd0wu/title/betting-preview-leeds-vs-fulham?#sthash.QWMi9ADo.dpuf

 
Steve Evans makes his opinion on Ross McCormack known, impressed with teenage talent

Leeds United will face Fulham at Elland Road in the Championship this evening.

Leeds United head coach Steve Evans has spoken highly of Fulham duo Ross McCormack and Moussa Dembele on BBC Radio Leeds.

The West Yorkshire outfit will take on Fulham at Elland Road in the Championship this evening.

"Massive threat, they are a massive threat to anyone in the Championship," Evans told BBC Radio Leeds about McCormack and Dembele.

"Ross McCormack has been subjected to multimillion pound offers at his time at Fulham, and the boy Dembele is a special player, so my back-five, including my goalkeeper, need to be on top of their game."

McCormack is one of the best strikers in the Championship and has been in good form so far this season.

The 29-year-old Scotland international, who played for Leeds from 2010 until 2014, has scored 16 goals and created 57 chances in 30 league matches for Fulham so far this campaign.

The former Rangers man has a pass accuracy of 80% and a shot accuracy of 67%, and has won one header, 20 dribbles and three tackles.

Dembele, who is just 19 years of age, has been a revelation this season and is one of the best young players in the Championship at the moment.

The France Under-20 international forward has scored 10 goals and created 24 chances in 29 league games so far this campaign.

The teenager has a pass accuracy of 69% and a shot accuracy of 51%, and has won 102 headers, 20 dribbles and 11 tackles.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2016/02/23/steve-evans-makes-his-opinion-on-ross-mccormack-known-impressed/?

 
U18 REPORT: FULHAM 1 ALBION 1

Albion's under-18s secured a draw at Fulham


FULHAM 1
Adebajo 6


ALBION 1
Ajeboye 75


Albion end the regional group season with a draw
Elijah Adebayo opens the scoring for Fulham
David Ajeboye equalises for Brighton
The Seagulls finish ninth in the Barclays Premier League South table


Brighton & Hove Albion's under-18s finished their regional group campaign with a 1-1 draw with Fulham at their Motspur Park training ground on Thursday.

The result leaves Ian Buckman's side ninth in the table after playing all 22 matches in the south regional group.

The northern and southern divisions will now merge and Albion face four further fixtures against the teams that finished ninth to 12th in the northern division.

Fulham took the lead in the sixth minute when Harrison Paton played in a perfectly-weighted pass to Adebayo, who fired a strike beyond Albion keeper Robert Sanchez.

Sanchez was called into action again to deny Adebayo twice from extending Fulham's lead, before Thomas Byrne had Albion's first chance with a header which was comfortably saved by keeper Jake Soutter.

Albion shot-stopper, Sanchez, made another terrific save to keep out an Aron Davies header that was heading towards the top corner. He continued his impressive performance after the break to tip a Jayden Harris volley around the post.

Despite Fulham's pressure, the Seagulls struck next thanks to Ajeboye, who got beyond the defence and sent a low strike past substitute keeper Josh Lukwata to bring parity to the scoreline.

Isaac Hutchinson could have even secured all three points for Buckman's side, but blazed a shot over the bar.

But the hosts had a golden opportunity to snatch a winner late on, but Matthew O'Riley headed wide from a Joe Felix cross and the points were shared.

ALBION: Sanchez; Moore, White, Golan (Ajiboye 65), Cox; Davies, Meyers, Sanders; Byrne, Garcia (Hutchinson 81), Meekums (Mandrioiu 52).

SUBS NOT USED: Vose (GK), Rolph.



Read more at http://www.seagulls.co.uk/news/article/brighton-hove-albion-fulham-under-18-report-2969391.aspx#gt60flWmlW6pVoco.99

 
Report: Leicester City eyeing summer move for Kostas Mitroglou

Leicester are reportedly keen on signing Kostas Mitroglou this summer, O Jogo reports.

The 27-year-old striker is currently on loan at Benfica from Championship side Fulham, and has scored 17 goals in 32 games this season.

The Greek international made his name with Olympiacos, scoring 81 goals in 183 games for the club, impressing in the Champions League and on the international stage.

His form with Olympiacos earned him a big money move to England, transferring to Fulham in January 2014, with the West London club facing relegation from the Premier League.

Mitroglou was meant to be their main chance of survival, but he struggled to adapt to English football, and he managed just three games that season - as Fulham were relegated.

He has not appeared for the club since then, rejoining Olympiacos on loan last season, and heading to Benfica for this campaign.

Due to his impressive form in Portugal, Leicester have been keeping tabs on the striker, scouting Mitroglou for the season.

They are considering making a move for the striker this summer, with Claudio Ranieri keen to add players with Champions League experience to his squad ahead of next campaign, and the likely European adventures Leicester will be going on.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2016/02/23/report-leicester-city-eyeing-summer-move-for-kostas-mitroglou/?

 
3 things to look out for in the Leeds United v Fulham match

Leeds United host Fulham at Elland Road tonight in a clash that sees 17th take on 18th in the Sky Bet Championship.

The hosts have won just one game in their last six and will be hoping to punish a Fulham side with a notoriously weak defence.

Still not certain to avoid relegation, both sides will be looking to take the three points in a game where Leeds fans hope to see a repeat of the display at Premier League Watford, just losing out to Scott Wooton's own goal.

The Whites however, will be without inform Guisseppe Bellusci who is serving a two-game ban after receiving his 10th booking of the season in Saturday's FA Cup defeat at Watford.

Sol Bamba is likely to start in his replacement alongside fellow centre back Liam Cooper who is hoping to have recovered from a minor injury. Gaetano Berardi could return after two months on the sideline with an ankle injury.

Fulham are still without Cauley Woodrow (broken metatarsal) and Lasse Christensen (hamstring), but Dan Burn could play a part after overcoming an ankle injury.

Here's THREE things to look out for in tonight's game.......

Leeds' mentality
After bowing out of the FA cup to Watford on Saturday, it will be interesting to see if Steve Evans' men come out firing or were weakened by their defeat.

Wholesale changes are not expected in the Leeds side so fatigue may certainly play its part.

Playing at Elland Road maybe threatening for some sides but Fulham thrashed QPR at Loftus Road in their last away trip, could this away form continue?

Fulham's starting XI
Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic openly admitted that he picked the wrong team in the first half in their clash with Charlton, so changes are expected in Fulham's starting 11.

Ex-England international Scott Parker is likely to keep his place with Jamie O'Hara in the centre of midfield.

Leeds have been consistently poor at home so it will be interesting to see how Fulham approach the game from the off

Ross McCormack
Receiving the nickname "Ross McContract" from Leeds fans after negotiating new deals on a regular basis, the Scotsman will return to Elland Road on the opposing team tonight.

After captaining Leeds before making the move down south, McCormack will undoubtedly receive a mixed reception from the Leeds faithful.

Beside this, McCormack has proved to be clinical finisher and Leeds should be wary of the threat he possesses.


http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-things-to-look-out-for-in-the-leeds-united-v-fulham-match/?