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Leeds United at Fulham FC preview: Whites try to keep Cottagers outside the top six

Tuesday's trip to Craven Cottage won't be easy, as Fulham FC are even better than Leeds United at home in 2016/17.

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A dangerous side, on the rise. Can Leeds take valuable points at Craven Cottage? Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images

The dust has barely settled on Friday night's Birmingham victory, and we are off to the big smoke for another tricky and challenging affair at Craven Cottage, home of Fulham FC.

Despite big spends, Fulham have been a little off the pace in recent seasons but now find themselves back in the hunt at 7th place in the league. However, they're still a notable 9 points behind Leeds United, now in 4th.

The two teams are both coming off the back of 3-1 victories; the Cottagers dented Preston's play-off hopes whilst Leeds United defeated Birmingham at St Andrew's. Also like Leeds, their manager Slaviša Jokanović, set a top 6 target for this season and they are certainly finishing strongly.

Johnny Wakefield interviewed a Fulham blogger yesterday in our latest Leeds Against The World segment, but let's take a deeper look at tomorrow's game today in our match preview.

What we know about Slaviša Jokanović
The former Yugoslavian International, as a player, had stints with Deportivo and Chelsea and managed Partizan Belgrade, Watford and Maccabai Tel Aviv. He took control of Fulham in December 2015, helping them to narrowly avoid relegation to League One. His most notable honour as a player is winning La Liga with Deportivo in 2000. As manager, he took Watford to the Premier League.

Hovering
Fulham have hovered around the top ten most of the season but have undergone a recent resurgence and have accumulated the 3rd best goal difference in the Championship at +19. Again, like Leeds, they have only lost 4 home games all season.

They have overhauled the entire team shipping out an incredible 25 players either loaned or transferred, including Ross McCormack and Matt Smith to Aston Villa (now loaned to Nottingham) and QPR respectively. In turn they have transferred in 11 players and loaned in 6.

Perhaps their most infamous arrival is Ragnar Sigurðsson, the Iceland International Centre Back who helped knock England out of Euro 2016 with this goal...


Sorry about that reminder.

Other Top 6 Tuesday Fixtures
Reading (5th, 63 points) vs. Newcastle (1st, 76 points)

Brighton (2nd, 71 points) vs. Rotherham (24th, 17 points)

Huddersfield Town (3rd, 65 points) vs. Aston Villa (13th, 45 points)

Sheffield Wednesday (6th, 61 points) vs. Burton Albion (19th, 37 points)

Leeds United player to watch
Since joining on deadline day from Villarreal, Alfonso Pedroza has featured in only 3 games as he gets adjusted to life in the Championship. However, his cameo role, against Birmingham City, provided us with a glimpse of what's to come as he scored his first goal for the club. As games come thick and fast he is sure to feature at some stage on Tuesday evening. More of the same please, Alfonso.

Fulham FC player to watch
On loan Scottish International Chris Martin is Fulham's leading marksman with 11 goals to date from 22 appearances. That equals a ratio of a goal every other game and as he scored in his last appearance against Preston, let's hope that ratio stays for Tuesday night at least.

Head-to-Head
At Fulham there have been 25 meetings between the two clubs, with Fulham winning 11, Leeds 9 and 5 drawn.

Form
Leeds have won 3, lost 1, and drawn 1 in their last five.

Fulham are now unbeaten in 5 games, with 4 wins and 1 draw.

WHAT

Fulham FC vs. Leeds United

EFL Championship fixture

WHERE

Craven Cottage, Fulham

LUTV, BBC Radio Leeds, International Listings

WHEN

Tuesday, March 7th, 2017

11:45am PT / 2:45pm ET / 7:45pm BT

WHO

Leeds United's predicted starting XI

Green, Ayling, Bartley, Jansson, Berardi, O'Kane, Bridcutt, Sacko, Hernandez, Doukara, Wood

Fulham FC's predicted starting XI

Button, Fredericks, Kalas, Ream, Sessegnon, Cairney, McDonald, Johansen, Aluko, Martin, Kebano

ODDS

Leeds 3/1

Draw 11/4

Fulham 17/20

PREDICTION
1-1 draw. Leeds United have been lauded for their home form this season losing only 4 and keeping clean sheets. However, Fulham have only been defeated the same amount of times at home and have conceded 1 less goal than Leeds. This one could be low-scoring, I'm predicting a draw. MOT.


http://throughitalltogether.sbnation.com/2017/3/6/14824756/leeds-united-fulham-fc-preview-whites-try-to-keep-cottagers-outside-the-top-six (http://throughitalltogether.sbnation.com/2017/3/6/14824756/leeds-united-fulham-fc-preview-whites-try-to-keep-cottagers-outside-the-top-six)

 
Ritchie: This is the message Monk will send to Leeds players ahead of Fulham clash

Andy Ritchie is convinced that Garry Monk's message to the Leeds players ahead of their clash against Fulham will simply be, 'don't lose'.

The promotion hopefuls are back in action on Tuesday night when they travel to Craven Cottage for a second consecutive away match.

Leeds beat Birmingham 3-1 at St Andrews on Friday evening and are aiming to consolidate their place in the play-offs with another positive result against Fulham.

Former Leeds striker Ritchie, who has managed Oldham, Barnsley and Huddersfield, believes it is important to prevent the west London side from securing the win that would shake up the promotion battle.

Monk's side are fourth in the table with 64 points from 35 league matches, while Fulham are the best placed of the team's outside of the top six, with a haul of 56 points and can narrow the gap on the pacesetters if they win at home.

"I just think Leeds need to get something out of it," said Ritchie in his weekly Yorkshire Evening Post column. "They'd love to win it, obviously, but don't lose. I think that would be the message to the players from Garry.

"They will know that they didn't play particularly well at Birmingham but they have got a kind of steel to them that Garry seems to have instilled in them whereby when they don't play well, they are still able to grind out results.

"It is a big game at Fulham. Garry won't want to make a big thing about it but I think it's just a case of 'don't lose'. Leeds are not assured of a play-off place yet. I wouldn't think that anybody would say it's done and dusted yet.

"The players should not feel that way because it's definitely not over until that last game of the season. That's when it is over and every manager should be saying that to his players and I am sure Garry will be doing that.

"He will be drumming it them into them that you have got to play in the moment but you don't take anything for granted in football."

Ritchie, who was a prolific scorer during a four-year spell at Leeds in the 1980s, has been encouraged by what he has seen of Monk's players in recent weeks, when they have struggled to replicate the fluency of their display against Derby in January, arguably their best of the campaign.

But the Championship big hitters are well placed to secure a place in the play-offs in May as they aim to end their 13-year spell in the lower leagues.

An automatic promotion spot is a more distant prospect, even though Brighton have given them a glimmer of hope with defeats in their last two fixtures.



http://www.footballinsider247.com/andy-ritchie-predicts-leeds-clash-fulham/ (http://www.footballinsider247.com/andy-ritchie-predicts-leeds-clash-fulham/)

 
Fulham v Leeds United: Monk seeks "free minds" ahead of crunch clash at Fulham

HEAD coach Garry Monk has told his Leeds United players to free their minds ahead of Tuesday night's trip to Fulham after feeling the Whites were "playing with pressure" at Birmingham City.

Leeds further strengthened their promotion push with a 3-1 triumph at Birmingham on Friday but United rode their luck before leaving St Andrews with all three points. And Monk feels his men would benefit from keeping to their natural, expressive game rather than over-thinking matters in an intense race to seal either a play-off place or even an automatic promotion spot in May. United are long odds-on to finish in the Championship's play-offs after Friday night's victory at Birmingham which left the fourth-placed Whites just seven points behind second-placed Brighton and eight points clear of seventh-placed Fulham. The Cottagers, though, have a game in hand and could significantly change the picture with victory against United at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night. The contest is arguably United's biggest game of the season so far but Monk is keen for his men to play with free minds and freedom with 11 games left to go. Monk reasoned: "The first 60 minutes wasn't good enough from anyone (at Birmingham) but we spoke at half time and we just lacked that little bit of freedom. "We looked like we were playing with pressure with us and we shouldn't be.

"We are in a fantastic position and I said to the players at the end that we need to help free your minds a little bit more - you are in a fantastic position, you have earned the right to go and play your football and do the things that we know we are good at and that we have shown many times. It's doing it from the start. "But of course it's difficult, every game is very hard and it's great to have a magic wand and say that you can play for 90 minutes your best football but it doesn't happen like that. "But our mentality at Birmingham was brilliant. "The second half as it grew on we got much, much better, we started to play the football we know we can and looked very dangerous and created chances and defended very well.

"We take that last 30 minutes as a real positive and obviously winning the game and obviously learn from the first 60 minutes that we know we need to get better which we will see it games to come that I am sure that we will."


Read more at: http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-monk-seeks-free-minds-ahead-of-crunch-clash-at-fulham-1-8423006 (http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-monk-seeks-free-minds-ahead-of-crunch-clash-at-fulham-1-8423006)

 
Tom Cairney reveals Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has warned him he will be a target
The 26-year-old has caught the eye this season with a number of fine performances and that hasn't gone unnoticed by fans and opposition managers alike

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Marked man: Tom Cairney has been warned he will be a target (Photo: Harry trump/GettyImages)

Fulham's starman Tom Cairney has revealed that Slavisa Jokanovic has warned him that he will be a target for opposing teams before games.

The 26-year-old has been in fine form all season, bagging himself seven goals and nine assists so far, picking up the EFL Player of the Year award last week at the London Football Awards.

That form hasn't gone unnoticed by the Craven Cottage faithful, and nor has it gone under the radar of opposing teams who know it's Cairney who makes the Fulham machine tick over.

Cairney took a few late kicks in the 3-1 defeat of Preston on Saturday, but Jokanovic's vice captain insists it doesn't bother him, although he admitted his manager has warned him he opposing sides may try to target him.

He said: "I got a few kicks late off the ball but I don't know, I think that's happened all season - it has been a great week for me but I need to top it off with three points.

"The manager said it to me before a few games that I'll be a target and to be careful but it's part and parcel of the game, the top players get it every week and you just have to go with the flow.

"I don't mind it, so long as I take my first touch I feel comfortable and feel like I won't lose the ball but I have to be a bit careful of course."

Cairney picked up the EFL gong at the London Football Awards last Thursday - the first time that the midfield maestro has been recognised in such a way, and he has revealed it was a proud moment in his career.

He added: "It was one of those nights where I haven't had that in my career yet but it's been an amazing season and it was such a proud moment for me and my family, my family came and I'd love to kick on from here.

"It's nice for your performances to get recognised and it;s a long hard season - the Championship is relentless so to perform on a good level for a long time it's nice to get rewarded for it."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/tom-cairney-reveals-fulham-manager-12696928 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/tom-cairney-reveals-fulham-manager-12696928)

 
Ben Parker predicts Fulham vs Leeds result

Leeds United travel to Fulham on Tuesday in a game that could have big implications towards the top of the Championship.

Former Leeds defender Ben Parker has told Radio Yorkshire that he is expecting Garry Monk's men to come away from their game with Fulham on Tuesday with a draw, but added that Chris Wood could be the game-changer at Craven Cottage.

The clash could have fairly large implications in the race for the top six in the Championship with Leeds currently fourth while the Cottagers are seventh but have played a game less than the three teams above them.

With eight points between the two teams - which Fulham could obviously close to two with wins against the Whites and in their game in hand - avoiding defeat could see Monk's men take one sizeable step towards securing a play-off spot.

But Parker is confident that Leeds can secure a share of the points, if not take all of them back with them to Yorkshire.

"I'm going to be on the fence for this one. I think 1-1 would be a good result but you never know with Chris Wood in your side," he told Radio Yorkshire.

"One chance, and as he's proven, one goal, you can nick it with a striker like that bang in form, but I'll stick with 1-1."

As Parker alluded to, Leeds arguably have the potential wildcard with Chris Wood enjoying such fantastic form in front of goal. His double against Birmingham took his tally for the season to 22, including nine in his last 10.

And they may need him to be somewhere near his best once again, as Fulham are enjoying a promising run of form in the league, having not lost in the Championship since the start of February.

And if they pick up some more momentum by beating Leeds, then it would take a brave person to bet against Slavisa Jokanovic's men securing a top six spot. Similarly however, if Leeds can pick up a positive result, then few could suggest that their season will not be continuing beyond their 46th game.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/06/ben-parker-predicts-fulham-vs-leeds-result/ (http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/06/ben-parker-predicts-fulham-vs-leeds-result/)

 
REPORT: FULHAM 2-2 UNDER-18s

Three own goals mean points shared at Motspur Park

NORWICH City's Under-18s drew 2-2 with Fulham at Motspur Park on Saturday in the Under-18s Premier League.

Both sides struggled to break the deadlock in the first half, with the hosts having the better of the chances, but City absorbed Fulham's pressure well to keep the game goalless going into the break.

The opening goal of the game came in the 52nd minute when Joe Felix had his shot blocked, the resulting corner floated into the box and City stopper Jon McCracken fumbled the ball into his own net under pressure.

The Whites extended their lead eight minutes later when Nicolas Santos-Clase picked up the ball on the halfway line and ran until he was in a one v one situation with McCracken before neatly finishing past the Scotland international.

The Canaries got one back in the 64th minute with the ball being well worked into Fulham's box before Felix's clearance bounced off of his own 'keeper and into the net.

Three minutes later City were level thanks to another own goal. This time Kieran Higgs drilled a cross that struck Felix before bulging the back of his own net.

The young Canaries finished eighth in the league and are now unbeaten in their last three games.

FULL-TIME: Fulham 2-2 Norwich City

GOALS: Whites: McCracken (OG) (54), Santos-Clase (60) Canaries: Ashby-Hammond (OG) (64), Felix (OG) (67).

NORWICH CITY: McCracken; Aarons, Ellesley, Wallis, O'Donnell; Sambu, Kamal; Higgs, Hlynsson (Oddy, 72), Aransibia; McIntosh (Fleming, 57). Subs not used: Hale-Brown (GK).



Read more at http://www.canaries.co.uk/news/article/2016-17/fulham-norwich-city-under-18s-3610547.aspx#c2SEUog38mXPwu3c.99 (http://www.canaries.co.uk/news/article/2016-17/fulham-norwich-city-under-18s-3610547.aspx#c2SEUog38mXPwu3c.99)

 
Next Up: Leeds

here's still time to secure your seat with Fulham back in action at Craven Cottage tomorrow night to take on Leeds United (Tuesday 7th March, kick-off 7:45pm).

The Whites will be looking to build on Saturday's 3-1 victory over Preston and continue their push towards the Play-Off places, so make sure you don't miss any of the action in SW6, with tickets on sale to supporters with a Booking History now.

Priced from £25 adults and £15 juniors, fans can purchase today to save £5, before tickets increase on matchday. Supporters can purchase online, by phone on 0843 208 1234 or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

Only a very limited number of Hospitality packages remain for tomorrow's fixture, with the final few spaces remaining in The Clubhouse, and Shared Executive Suites. Package prices start from £99 and can be purchased by calling 0208 336 7555 or emailing [email protected]

Supporters must be logged in to purchase online.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/06/next-up-leeds (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/06/next-up-leeds)

 
CONCACAF U20 Champions

On Sunday Marlon Fossey and Luca de la Torre became CONCACAF U20 Champions in Costa Rica by beating Honduras in the final on penalties.


The match was scoreless after 90 minutes and the USA made history by winning 5-3 from the 12-yard spot.   

This is the first time the USA have ever won the CONCACAF at U20 level, and took their opportunity in their fifth final in the competition. 

Both Fulham Academy players Fossey and de la Torre had a hand in the win, playing for the entirety of the game.

de la Torre was the man to give the Stars and Stripes the advantage by smashing his penalty into the top right corner to make it 4-3, and the win was sealed by USA's Danny Acosta.

Fossey and de la Torre not only had a hand in this match, but were imperative to the USA team throughout the tournament.

Both the Academy boys played 90 minutes in five of the six matches, and were rested for the St Kitts & Nevis match. Fossey also appeared early in that game due to injury.

The USA did it the hard way, they lost their opening match to Panama but then subsequently won five games in a row, including beating favourites and 13 times winners Mexico.

The team also had to navigate victories over Haiti, a game in which de la Torre also scored to give the USA the lead, El Salvador in the semi final and of course Honduras in the final.

Fossey and de la Torre will be joining up with the U20 USA team once more this summer for the World Cup as CONCACAF Champions.

Photograph curtesy of U.S. Soccer


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/06/concacaf-u20-champions (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/06/concacaf-u20-champions)

 
Snodin - Undone By Fulham Footballing Brains

Preston's play-off chances suffered a blow when Fulham - boosting their own chances - ended our five game unbeaten run to leave North End nine off the top six.

Sone Aluko put Fulham ahead before Chris Martin made it two. Tom Barkhuizen's first goal since joining Preston from Blackpool last year gave us hope but this ended when Neeskens Kebano sealed the points.

Assistant Glynn Snodin admitted that Fulham were 'a step above' Preston. Taking on the post-match conference duties he was quoted by the BBC as saying.

'We've come up against a good side today. I felt they were different class, a step above us.'

Snodin went on to say the players reacted well to falling two down at Craven Cottage and Preston had believe we could get back into the game and did at 2-1.

However, Simon Grayson's number two finished by saying Fulham's counter attacking play and 'footballing brains' made the difference.

'To be fair to our players they kept going and got back in it at 2-1. They have got belief as a unit and always believe we can get something from a game. But Fulham are a good counter-attacking side with good footballing brains. And that's what we've been undone by today.'



Read more: http://www.pne.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=483069#ixzz4acrhdg60 (http://www.pne.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=483069#ixzz4acrhdg60)

 
Leeds United: Vieira and Taylor in contention to face Fulham

RONALDO VIEIRA is firmly in contention to feature for Leeds United at Fulham tomorrow, with head coach Garry Monk declaring: "you have to sometimes pull them back to put them back in."

Midfielder Vieira failed to even make the substitutes' bench for Friday night's trip to Birmingham City and Monk confirmed that the 18-year-old was not injured and merely rested.

Left-back Charlie Taylor also failed to make the match-night squad, despite having been declared fit after recovering from an Achilles injury that has kept him out since December.

But both Taylor and Vieira remain very much in contention to feature in Tuesday night's Championship crunch clash at Fulham, with Monk particularly keen to take a patient approach with the still inexperienced Vieira.

"They are all available," said Monk.

"Ronny was available (for Birmingham) but I have to manage the group how I want to manage them and with young lads you have to sometimes pull them back to put them back in.

"And Ronny was one of them.

"He could have played and travelled but it's for me to manage all of those situations and manage the group right and what I feel is best for them and make sure that everyone is ready for the games that come."


http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/leeds-united-vieira-and-taylor-in-contention-to-face-fulham-1-8423357 (http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/leeds-united-vieira-and-taylor-in-contention-to-face-fulham-1-8423357)

 
Championship stats: Best passers in the league revealed including 93% completion maestro
ONE Championship side owns eight of the top 20 passers in the league.

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There's no definitive way to play in the Championship but while some teams favour the long ball, others are built around slick passing.

One team boasts eight of the top 20 passers in the league based on pass completion percentage, according to Squawka stats.


http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/775543/Championship-stats-best-passers-league-revealed-sportgalleries (http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/775543/Championship-stats-best-passers-league-revealed-sportgalleries)

 
Monk wants players to ignore pressure

Leeds boss Garry Monk wants his players to ignore the pressure and play with freedom at Fulham on Tuesday night.

The Cottagers are pushing hard to get themselves into the play-off places but a win for Leeds on Tuesday would put Monk's men 11 points clear of them. Monk is looking for his side to play with a sense of freedom and not be dragged down by the pressure of pushing for a top six spot. Following the win over Birmingham on Friday, he told reporters: "We looked like we were playing with pressure and we shouldn't be. "We are in a fantastic position and I said to the players at the end that we need to help free your minds a little bit more. "But of course it's difficult, every game is very hard and it's great to have a magic wand and say that you can play for 90 minutes your best football but it doesn't happen like that."


Read more at: https://www.clubcall.com/championship/monk-wants-players-to-ignore-pressure-1844080.html (https://www.clubcall.com/championship/monk-wants-players-to-ignore-pressure-1844080.html)

 
Free-flowing Fulham leaves Jokanovic purring after Craven Cottage victory over Preston

Slavisa Jokanovic was delighted his side hit their fluent best to take the spoils at Craven Cottage

Unflappable is perhaps the best way to describe Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic and his side are starting to become a mirror image.

Sone Aluko scored the first and created the third as Fulham saw off a brief Preston resurgence after Tom Barkhuisen's goal to win 3-1.

The Chris Martin mystery continued as he marked his return to the side with the second to go into double figures for the season.

The win sees Fulham keep pace with the four play-off sides who, unfortunately for Jokanovic, all won. That could be the only mark on his day.

"I believe we very played a very good game. I must be satisfied with our performance, we followed our style, moved the ball and created many chances," said the Fulham boss.

"When Preston scored their goal we knew we would be in some kind of trouble for a few minutes but we found a solution. The team showed their character, played bravely and scored a third goal. We scored three, I believe we could have scored many more.

"I am not such a romantic man and in general I just want us to always win. It is a simple choice of what is best for us.

"There is a gap of six points gap between us and the top six, this is our target, what we are going to push for at the end of the season. We are still in position to fight to play after the first week in May."

Preston assistant Glynn Snodin praised Fulham's bold football and said there was little doubt they deserved their win.

"We've come up against a good Fulham side," he said. "What they do, how they play, the players they've got in their side, they were different class and a step above us.

"Credit to our players they kept going to the end and we almost got back in the game until, against the run of play, they get the third.

"They're a good counter-attacking side, who can handle the ball and have great movement - football brains - and that's what we've been undone by, a great footballing side.

"You know what they're going to do but it's hard to stop sometimes."

Fulham might feel they should have gone in at the break with more than their one-goal lead after dominating the first half.

Following several attempts Fulham finally found a man in space from one of their trips to the byline. Kebano picking out Aluko with an instinctive pull-back for the Nigerian international to slam home from the penalty spot.

The confident Cottagers had several more opportunities to increase the advantage before the break. Tomas Kalas went the closest when he flicked on a near-post corner only to see Chris Maxwell make a fine reaction save.

Fulham got the second goal their play deserved on the hour. Ryan Fredericks roamed forward and found Martin in an unfathomable amount of space in the box. The striker was left with the simplest of tasks and finished well into the bottom corner.

When Barkhuisen latched on to McGeady's perfect through ball to make it 2-1 Preston briefly threatened to make a game of it.

That hope lasted about 10 minutes until Kebano killed the contest when found in the box by Aluko, allowing Fulham to see out the closing stages.


http://www.ealingtimes.co.uk/sport/15136289.Free_flowing_Fulham_leaves_Jokanovic_purring_after_Craven_Cottage_victory_over_Preston/ (http://www.ealingtimes.co.uk/sport/15136289.Free_flowing_Fulham_leaves_Jokanovic_purring_after_Craven_Cottage_victory_over_Preston/)

 
Another Painful Day In London

It was the annual Gentry Day with fans travelling by train, car and boat to reach Craven Cottage as over 2,800 fans made the journey to Fulham. Unfortunately, the Preston team in all yellow were in an equally giving mood going down tamely to a strong Fulham outfit.

In fairness, Preston are rarely carved apart and have held their own since returing to the Championship. The management may have put the defeat down to just playing a better side but the defensive play was not good on Saturday with the home side given acres of space.

Aluku gave Fulham the lead before the break and the goal was all too easy for the home side. The lead was doubled after the break when Martin scored.

Preston's best move of the match came through McGeady who slotted a perfect ball through to Barkhuizen who was given his first start. He ran through on goal with a neat finish reducing the scoreline.

North End were outplayed and Fulham soon restored their lead with a goal from Kebano. Again there were questions to be asked over the defending.

This season now has a familiarity about it similar to last season. Fulham are chasing the play offs with some momentum whilst Preston now have to contemplate negotiating the latter part of the season with a top ten finish the most realistic aim.

The league table ever lies and Preston are in a fair position. It is clear where Preston are lacking and Grayson has done a superb job and what is essentially a shoe string budget. Copeting against sides like Fulham on and off the pitch will always be a tough ask.


http://www.prestonnorthend-mad.co.uk/news/tmnw/another_painful_day_in_london_904784/index.shtml (http://www.prestonnorthend-mad.co.uk/news/tmnw/another_painful_day_in_london_904784/index.shtml)

 
Why did Fulham pair Sone Aluko and Ryan Fredericks find a place in the WhoScored? team of the week?
Both were named in the WhoScored? team of the week and we look at the stats behind their performances against Preston

(http://i1.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article12698348.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/Untitled-design-69.jpg)
team of the week: Sone Aluko and Ryan Fredericks

Fulham pair Sone Aluko and Ryan Fredericks have been named in WhoScored's team of the week for their strong performances against Fulham, but what do the stats say?

We've had a look at both performances and ran the rule over the stats from the 3-1 victory at Craven Cottage, and they make for interesting reading.

It was clear to the naked eye that Fredericks was a nightmare for the Preston fullbacks all game, and that was evident when his pace and vision set Chris Martin on his way for their second goal of the afternoon.

His passing stats tell a story - he had an 87% pass completion from his 52 passes while only 4% went long, which is testament to how Slavisa Jokanovic wants his teams to play.

His attacking form was the best part of the game on Saturday, but as a defender his first and most important duty is to defend, and he did well in that aspect.

He made three tackles, winning 100% of those while winning half of his aerial duels in the match, something that will have pleased Jokanovic immensely.

Meanwhile, Aluko was on fire and that is shown through his rating of 9.21 - the highest on the WhoScored? team of the week.

He bagged himself the opener when he drilled home Neeskens Kebano's opener, while he got himself an assist when he turned provider for Kebano who scored Fulham's 13th goal in their previous five games.

He got 75 touches of the ball during the 88 minutes he was on, winning over half of his duels, while finding the target three times out of his four strikes all game.

His distribution doesn't make for bad reading either - his passing accuracy was 89% with only 4% of them going long.

The gaffer was also pleased with Aluko's performance, but insisted it was his normal level: "Sone has had a good season.

"He is an important part of my squad and today he played very well in the game.

"This is his normal level, I didn't ask anything different. He is working very well, he is working very hard and he scored an important goal for us.

"I believe he will keep at this same level."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-pair-sone-aluko-ryan-12697954 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-pair-sone-aluko-ryan-12697954)

 
QPR, and former Leeds, striker happy to be 'believed in again' after Fulham woes
The former Leeds and Fulham striker claimed he has gained a new lease of life since swapping Craven Cottage for Loftus Road

QPR'S Matt Smith admits it's good to be believed in again.

The former Leeds and Fulham striker claimed he has gained a new lease of life since swapping Craven Cottage for Loftus Road in the January transfer window.

The 27-year-old was behind Ross McCormack and Moussa Dembele last season in the pecking order at Fulham, and, even after the pair left found himself out of favour with the Whites following the arrival of Slavisa Jokanovic.

While stopping short of labelling his last few years on the banks of the Thames a waste, there is no doubt he is relishing being Ian Holloway's leader of the line.

"Football is a game of opinions," the QPR striker said in a veiled reflection on his latter days at Fulham, before adding pointedly, "I'm lucky I'm here with a manager who really believes in me and wants to get the best out of me."

(http://i3.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article12396197.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/AWP_SAH_WL170001_36JPG.jpg)
Frustration: Matt Smith (Photo: Surrey Advertiser)

"Fulham have had a great season so I had to bide my time on the side-lines, but as a player you want to be playing regular football, so the opportunity to come to such a great club such as QPR was a good one.

"I'm very settled in the west London area as well, but most important was the meeting I had with Ian Holloway and Les Ferdinand.

"Those two meetings were a real breath of fresh air, something I was delighted to hear and it wasn't just words said in those 45 minutes it has come to fruition and is happening.

"For them to have that belief in me is something I don't take for granted and I'll look to repay the faith as best I can."

The decision to attribute the winner in Saturday's 2-1 win over Cardiff to the Bluebirds' own Jazz Richards deprived Smith of a third goal in his first six starts.

The fans have nevertheless quickly taken him to their hearts, but he knows he must keep the goals coming to retain such popularity.

He added: "I've been around long enough to know this honeymoon period is great, but I'm hopefully here for the long haul so I've got to keep turning in performances like today and week in week out."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/qpr-former-leeds-striker-happy-12699320 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/qpr-former-leeds-striker-happy-12699320)

 
Confirmed: Frozen-out Leeds 25-year-old handed recall for Fulham clash

Modou Barrow has revealed that Marcus Antonsson has been recalled to the Leeds squad to face Fulham on Tuesday evening.

Antonsson, 25, has struggled since his arrival in Yorkshire, scoring just three goals all season and was left out of the matchday 18 for Friday's 3-1 win against Birmingham City after being named in Leeds' Under-23s side earlier in the day.

However, on-loan winger Barrow revealed on his personal Twitter account that Antonsson was on the coach to Craven Cottage with his Leeds teammates by taking a selfie with the striker.

Antonsson has played second fiddle for the entirety of the season to New Zealand international Chris Wood, who is now the Championship's top scorer with 22 league goals.

It has seen the Swede drop into Jason Blunt's development side on a number of occasions this season, after making just six Championship starts in the entirety of the campaign for the Yorkshire giants.

Indeed, Antonsson has been frozen out to the point that he has not even made the substitute's bench for Leeds' last five games.

With just one Championship goal to his name, the former Kalmar FF striker will be hoping to be given a chance to add to his tally against Slavisa Jokanovic's side.

Fulham come into the game in a wonderful run of form, winning four out of their last five Championship encounters against the likes of Preston, Bristol City and Nottingham Forest.

The Cottagers have the chance to climb into the play-offs with a win, while Leeds could leapfrog Huddersfield into third place if the Terriers lose at home to Aston Villa.


http://www.footballinsider247.com/modou-barrow-drops-leeds-selection-hint-twitter-posting-selfie/ (http://www.footballinsider247.com/modou-barrow-drops-leeds-selection-hint-twitter-posting-selfie/)

 
HYS: Jokanovic vs. Monk... Who's the better manager?

While some may be distracted by the Champions League this midweek, the Championship has a full round of fixtures to whet the appetite.

Among this selection of games, Fulham hosting Leeds United looks like a particularly intriguing prospect, with both fallen Premier League sides – who have been in relatively successful in European competition in somewhat recent memory – having picked up their form this term as they compete to return to the top table.

These turnarounds are somewhat due the managers in the dugouts, with Slavisa Jokanovic having taken the Cottagers to the very edge of the play-off zone, while Garry Monk's Whites sitting in one of the four spots below runaway leaders Newcastle and Brighton & Hove Albion.

But who's the top tactician? The managerial mega man? The chief coach? Well, you can have your say right here as FootballFanCast aims to settle the debate before kick-off.


http://www.footballfancast.com/debate/polls/hys-jokanovic-vs-monk-whos-the-better-manager (http://www.footballfancast.com/debate/polls/hys-jokanovic-vs-monk-whos-the-better-manager)

 
Fulham vs Leeds United Preview: Three questions with Through It All Together
We're joined by Through It All Together to preview this match and discuss the top six.

Cottagers Confidential: How worried are you about falling out of the top six? Who do you think the final top six will be and do you like your chances with that group in the playoffs?

    Through It All Together: Not worried actually. I'm part of the optimistic Leeds United contingent, the one that thinks automatic promotion might still be on the cards if we play March well. Of the teams in the top ten, I think we're clearly better than 4, so while the top six might shuffle a bit, I don't think we'll drop. I'd put the final six at Brighton, Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield, Huddersfield, and... Fulham. Can't see Reading holding you off, and if we do finish 3 and 6, we'll have to do another one of these in May.

CC: Gary Monk wasn't thought of as a tactical genius when he was in charge at Swansea, and by the numbers Leeds don't look like they do anything great. Yet you've ridden a middle of the road offense and a above average defense into fourth place and the fourth best GD. How have you done it, and do you think it's sustainable long term?

    TIAT: Not sure if this is a backhanded compliment or what... but yeah, I think it's sustainable long term. Garry Monk has built a team that plays with "passion," and while that might not be a quantifiable statistic, it has shown throughout the campaign. Pontus Jansson and Gaetano Berardi in particular play with a determination reminiscent of old Leeds United legends, pounding their chests and gesturing to the crowd at every opportunity. Jansson has been a revelation back there, partnered with Swansea loanee Kyle Bartley, and while his passion might get him in trouble sometimes, he's been the anchor of the defense.

    As for goal differential, that's thanks to that solid defence. Right back Luke Ayling played with centre back Bartley in the Arsenal youth system, Bartley and Jansson are on the same page too, and Berardi has filled in well for an injured (and hopefully returning) Charlie Taylor, who's a Premier League quality left back. Rob Green has been international-quality in the box after some early season errors, and while Chris Wood's goals show for the positive side of that ledger, it's the defence that gives us that top-six GD.

CC: What is Leeds biggest strength and biggest weakness this year?

    TIAT: Ha, answered this one already I guess, at least in part. Our defence is our strength, and the centre back pairing of "Bartsson" in particular. Our biggest weakness has to be our midfield-forward combination play. Chris Wood leads the league in goals with 21, but our second highest goal scorer has 5. (If you want to end our campaign, injure Chris Wood.) Wood plays as the lone forward in a 4-2-3-1 formation, and when defences can isolate him from the 3 attacking midfielders, we're hopeless on attack. It's a big weakness, and it's one that has lost us several games. Monk tried to fix that weakness by adding two attacking wingers in January in Modou Barrow and Villarreal's Alfonso Pedraza, and he's hoping a resurgent Pablo Hernandez will be key in the 10 role. When Hernandez has an off-night, goals are hard to come by. So far, Barrow's quickness hasn't been a big enough upgrade to help Wood, and Pedraza just scored his first on Friday night. We'll see if they're enough to push us onto the Premier League over the next few weeks.

CC: Predicted scoreline and result?

    TIAT: Predicted lineup then... Green, Ayling, Bartley, Jansson, Berardi, Bridcutt, O'Kane, Barrow, Hernandez, Pedraza, Wood.

    Predicted score... 2-1, Leeds.


http://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2017/3/6/14828810/fulham-leeds-united-preview-three-questions-through-it-all-together (http://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2017/3/6/14828810/fulham-leeds-united-preview-three-questions-through-it-all-together)

 
Leeds fans urge Monk to axe international ace for clash against Fulham

Leeds fans on Twitter have urged Garry Monk to take the drastic step of axing Pablo Hernandez for Tuesday's Championship clash against Fulham.

The three-times Spain international struggled on Friday night even though the Yorkshire giants secured a 3-1 league triumph against Birmingham at St Andrews.

The playmaker, 31, has had an impressive debut campaign at Elland Road after joining last summer initially on a loan deal that was converted into a permanent transfer in January.

But many pundits and supporters believe Hernandez is less effective in away matches when Leeds do not have as much possession.

Fans of the promotion hopefuls are now calling on manager Monk to drop the Spaniard down to the bench for Tuesday's league clash at Fulham and replace him with Kemar Roofe.

Hernandez has scored four goals and supplied an impressive eight assists in 25 Championship appearances this season.

Roofe has weighed in with three goals and five assists in 32 Championship matches, but has been used predominantly as a substitute in recent weeks.



http://www.footballinsider247.com/leeds-fans-urge-monk-axe-international-ace-clash-fulham/ (http://www.footballinsider247.com/leeds-fans-urge-monk-axe-international-ace-clash-fulham/)

 
Fulham's victory over Preston was professional - now they have to kick on ahead of Leeds tie
Slavisa Jokanovic's side put on a professional display against Preston, and now they must use that to overcome a tough Leeds side

(http://i4.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article12699933.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/GettyImages-647857768.jpg)
Use the momentum: Slavisa Jokanovic's Fulham side are preparing to face Leeds (Photo: Ker Robertson/GettyImages)

Fulham's game with Preston had the potential to be an unwanted banana skin on the road to the play-off places, and sides of old may have slipped and continued to slide all the way to May 7.

But not the class of 2016/17.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side put in an extremely professional performance that has been missing from Craven Cottage in recent years, dominating the game apart from a five minute spell after Preston had scored and securing all three points.

Those three points were vital in keeping the Cottagers hopes alive, especially after Sheffield Wednesday trounced Norwich 5-1 at Hillsborough - a place Fulham must conquer on the last day of the season.

But that's still to come, and at the moment all thoughts go to the visit of Leeds on Tuesday night in what is yet another cup final for Jokanovic's side.

The Yorkshire team sit in fourth place in the Championship, eight points off Fulham, having won five games more than the west Londoners.

It's a massive game, the players know it, the manager knows it and the fans know and Fulham must now push on from their victory over Preston and use it as a catapult to launch themselves into this game.

There's no need to fear Leeds - Fulham have the players capable of beating Monk's side, but they must be on the top of their game from the first to the final whistle.

They have the perfect springboard going into the game after Saturday's match, the performance against Preston was a joy to watch and they did everything that needed to be done. and they did it well.

Of course, the goal they conceded was a black mark on an otherwise clean performance, but nonetheless they would've been happy to take that result at the start of the day.

Winning breeds confidence, and beating a team that were only a point off them at the start of the weekend so comfortably will have given the entire side a confidence boost, something they must use against Leeds.

Chris Wood is a threat for the away side, but they will come to Craven Cottage with the aim of getting out without being beaten, and Fulham need to use that to their advantage and try to dominate the game.

Like they did against Preston, the utilisation of whoever plays at fullback will be key, as will whoever Jokanovic chooses to play up front - in my opinion, this game is calling out for Chris Martin to play up front and worry the Leeds defence.

It isn't the end of the world if Fulham lose, they still have that game in hand, but it will be a big blow, both to the confidence of the side and the run of form they currently find themselves on.

So long as the team get a result, they can continue their forward momentum and push Sheffield Wednesday right to the end.


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulhams-victory-over-preston-professional-12697314 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulhams-victory-over-preston-professional-12697314)

 
Fulham v Leeds United
TUE, 07 Mar 2017Championship
Venue: Craven Cottage


BBC coverage
How to follow:
    BBC local radio; live text commentary on the BBC Sport website

---

Fulham remain without Lucas Piazon (broken jaw) and fellow forward Floyd Ayite for the visit of Leeds United, which could prove to be a crucial match for their play-off hopes.

The Londoners are five points off the top six, with a game in hand on sixth-placed Sheffield Wednesday, and eight points behind the fourth-placed Whites.

Leeds United have no new injury or suspension concerns.

Full-back Charlie Taylor and midfielder Ronaldo Vieira could both feature.

Match facts
    The last three league meetings between Fulham and Leeds have ended 1-1, with Fulham's Tom Cairney and United's Chris Wood netting two of their team's three goals in this run.
    Leeds have won just one of their five Championship meetings with Fulham since the start of the 2014-15 campaign (D3 L1) - only against Brighton have they played a team as often while picking up fewer wins in this period (P5 W0).
    Tom Cairney has created more goalscoring chances than any other player in the Championship so far this season (90).
    Chris Wood has scored 11 goals in his last 11 Championship appearances for Leeds. He has found the net in 22 different competitive matches this season for the Whites.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39111570 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39111570)

 
Fulham are well-placed to reach the Championship play-offs, insists Slavisa Jokanovic

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic says the west Londoners have put themselves in a good position to make the Championship play-offs after winning four of their past five games.

Fulham beat Preston North End 3-1 on Saturday - thanks to goals from Sone Aluko, Neeskens Kebano and Chris Martin - and are five points outside the top six with a game in hand.

The Cottagers face fourth-placed Leeds at Craven Cottage tomorrow night and Jokanovic said: "In general where we are now, we can be relatively satisfied.

"We are around the top six and we now want to close the gap to the top six.

"This is our target and we are still in position to be fighting to play after the first week in May.

"We have taken 13 points from the last five games and my team play with confidence."

Meanwhile, Garry Monk's men are on a similarly impressive run, having won three of their last four games, to ignite hopes that they can secure a return to the top-flight.


http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-are-wellplaced-to-reach-the-championship-playoffs-insists-slavisa-jokanovic-a3482886.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-are-wellplaced-to-reach-the-championship-playoffs-insists-slavisa-jokanovic-a3482886.html)

 
Boost for Leeds United starlets ahead of Fulham clash

Leeds United manager Garry Monk has said that winger Ronaldo Vieira and full-back Charlie Taylor will be in contention to feature in the match against Fulham.

18-year-old Vieira failed to make the 18-man squad for the weekend's win against Birmingham City despite being match-fit.

Likewise, Taylor was declared injury-free following an Achilles injury that sidelined him for nearly two months,but he also failed to make the bench.

However, Monk has defended the omission of the two players, and has reassured supporters that they will be considered for selection when Leeds travel to Craven Cottage on Tuesday evening.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, the former Swansea boss said: "They are all available [for selection].

"Ronny was available [for the Birmingham game]but I have to manage the group how I want to manage them and with young lads you have to sometimes pull them back to put them back in, and Ronny was one of them.

"He could have played and travelled but it's for me to manage all of those situations, and manage the group right and what I feel is best for them, and make sure that everyone is ready for the games that come."

Leeds have enjoyed a fantastic season so far; they currently sit in fourth position in the Championship table and look on course to secure their first top-six finish since their promotion from League One seven years ago.

Two weeks ago they gained huge ground in the race for the playoffs with a crucial 1-0 win against Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday, and followed it up with another three points against Birmingham on Friday evening.


http://the72.co.uk/76617/boost-leeds-united-starlets-fulham-clash/ (http://the72.co.uk/76617/boost-leeds-united-starlets-fulham-clash/)

 
Fulham v Leeds United: Clotet: We'll be ready for 'full-on' Fulham display

Leeds United assistant boss Pep Clotet is ready for a "full-on" performance from Fulham tonight – but believes the Championship table is putting the pressure on Slavisa Jokanovic's side.

Clotet said he expected a crucial meeting at Craven Cottage to live up to its billing with Leeds looking to defend and increase their eight-point advantage over seventh-placed Fulham.

Fulham are leading the battle to break into the Championship's play-off places and the London club have the advantage of a game in hand over Leeds but Clotet said Fulham's dip beneath the top six had put them in a position where "every point really counts".

United would strike a significant blow by winning at Craven Cottage and Clotet, who will resume his usual duties this evening after taking charge of the dug-out while head coach Garry Monk served a one-game touchline ban at Birmingham City on Friday, ruled out any possibility of Leeds looking for a draw.

"We're prepared to fight for every game and we take every game as very important," Clotet said. "We're preparing to win.

"After the game you look at the balance. Maybe a point will be a fair result or maybe you had a better game, or a worse game. You judge the result after. But before it you always have to look to get a win.

"For them the situation is a bit different than for us. Every point really counts for them and we understand they'll go full-on because the closer they can get (to the top six) and the better results they have against the teams who are there, the more chance they have to go to the play-offs."

Clotet said United's playing staff had identified "a few weak points" in Fulham's line-up but he warned that Leeds would be coming up against a confident side who have won six of their last eight home matches.

"They're a team who are clear how they play," Clotet said. "They're very good at building from the back and they're very good at keeping a high level of possession and using that possession to create chances.

"They have a few weak points but they're a strong side, especially at home because they have the confidence to play their football. It's not easy to battle."

Leeds, however, climbed to fourth in the table with a 3-1 win at Birmingham and Clotet said: "We all agree we had a very good result on Friday.

"Obviously it gives you a boost going to Fulham but we know it's going to be a very hard game. We have a very hard game in front of us."

Meanwhile, Leeds United have signed young Limerick defender Paudie O'Connor on a two-and-a-half year contract.

The 19-year-old centre-back is linking up with United's Under-23 squad after Leeds completed a deal to bring him to England from the League of Ireland side.

O'Connor made his debut for Limerick in 2015, a campaign in which the club were relegated, and was part of the team who won the first division title and promotion back to the Premier Division last year.


http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-clotet-we-ll-be-ready-for-full-on-fulham-display-1-8424712 (http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-clotet-we-ll-be-ready-for-full-on-fulham-display-1-8424712)

 
Fulham maestro Tom Cairney reckons March will be the defining month in their season
Fulham have five fixtures in the month - with four of those at home - and Cairney reckons this month will define their season

Tom Cairney believes that March will be the defining month of Fulham's season as they face four home games in their next five matches.

The first of those come tonight when Slavisa Jokanovic's side welcome Leeds United to Craven Cottage as fourth meets seventh in the Championship.

Fulham then face Newcastle at St James' Park before games against Blackburn and Wolves at home complete their month.

The west London outfit will have a clearer picture as to whether or not they have a chance at making the play-offs once the month is over, but Cairney doesn't think the task facing his team mates and himself is daunting at all.

He said: "This month is defining - I think it will make or break our season we have four home games and I think we have to win at least three.

"We have another cup final here on Tuesday and we have to chase the pack down and I think if we keep playing like that (against Preston) we won't be far off.

"I think Leeds are going to bring about 40,000 fans down probably, it's one of those games you want to play and want to be involved in so I'm looking forward to it.

"It's not daunting because we have a game in hand, we have to win that game but it isn't daunting and five points in this league is nothing."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-maestro-tom-cairney-reckons-12700084 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-maestro-tom-cairney-reckons-12700084)

 
Three reasons Leeds will secure vital win vs. Fulham

Championship high-flyers Leeds United will be looking to make it three wins on the bounce when they face fellow in-form side Fulham at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night.

Garry Monk's men closed the gap on the automatic promotion places to seven points with an impressive 3-1 success on the road against Birmingham City on Saturday, and with eleven games of the season remaining, they will be going all out to try and seal a spot in the top two by the end of the campaign.

It won't be an easy task to take all three points in the capital, though, with Slavisa Jokanovic's outfit in seventh position – just five points from the play-offs and eight behind their next opponents – after taking 13 points from the last 15 available in England's second tier.

The latest of those results was a 3-1 win against Preston North End at the weekend, where Neeskens Kebano was particularly impressive, picking up a goal and an assist.

Here are THREE reasons Leeds will take all three points and end Fulham's unbeaten run in midweek...

They can smell blood
Despite the huge size of the club, Leeds United's failures in previous seasons means there is little pressure on them at the current time when it comes to winning promotion back to the Premier League.
In fact, with a play-off position looking secure at the current time, Garry Monk's men will be looking up rather than over their shoulders, and they will have been delighted with what they have seen from the likes of Brighton and Huddersfield in recent weeks.
The Seagulls have lost their last two while Huddersfield have taken just a point from theirs, and the Whites will be even more determined to take advantage of those slips in their next couple of fixtures.

They've got Chris Wood
While Dwight Gayle has been in brilliant form for the Championship leaders Newcastle United, there is one man that is ahead of him in the goalscoring charts this season – step forward, Chris Wood.
The New Zealand international has been in outstanding form for Leeds this term, and he comes into the fixture at Craven Cottage flowing with confidence.
Wood netted a double in the success against former club Birmingham on Saturday, which added to the winner he scored against Ipswich Town at Elland Road the previous weekend, to take his tally to 22 league goals for the campaign.

Cementing a top six spot
As we mentioned previously, Fulham are the team just outside of the play-off positions, and Garry Monk will be well aware that this is a big chance to increase their push for a top-six spot.
With the outfit from the capital unable to be caught by any of the sides below them whatever the results on Tuesday night, Leeds have the chance to create an eleven-point gap with victory at Craven Cottage – it is a result that would take them a step closer to sealing a place in the end-of-season lottery.


http://www.footballfancast.com/image-gallery/three-reasons-leeds-united-will-end-fulhams-unbeaten-run-on-tuesday (http://www.footballfancast.com/image-gallery/three-reasons-leeds-united-will-end-fulhams-unbeaten-run-on-tuesday)

 
Leeds United receive huge injury boost ahead of Fulham clash

Championship side Leeds United have received a boost on the injury front as midfielder Ronaldo Vieira is set to return for the league fixture against Fulham on Tuesday.

The 18-year-old star missed Leeds' 3-1 win over Birmingham City with a suspected injury.

According to Yorkshire Post, manager Gary Monk will have the talented youngster at his disposal for the trip to Craven Cottage.

Vieira, who came through Leeds' youth academy, has been a key member of Monk's squad this season. He joined Leeds' youth academy from Portuguese giants Benfica in 2015.

He has formed a key midfielder partnership with Liam Bridcutt and has made 26 league appearances for the Whites this season.

The Yorkshire side are currently placed fourth in the table, and three points against the Cottagers could see them move into the third spot. Meanwhile, the Cottagers are in the pursuit of a playoff spot themselves and will aim for nothing less than three points.


http://futnsoccer.com/2017/03/06/leeds-united-receive-huge-injury-boost-ahead-of-fulham-clash/ (http://futnsoccer.com/2017/03/06/leeds-united-receive-huge-injury-boost-ahead-of-fulham-clash/)

 
These 2 Fulham players will cause Leeds United serious problems on Tuesday night

Due to phenomenal recent form, Fulham have edged themselves closer and closer to the top six and at this stage of the season, it is still all to play for.

The Cottagers currently occupy a position just outside of the play-offs and they are now within five points of sixth place Sheffield Wednesday with a game in hand.

With 13 points taken from a possible 15, Fulham are a side that nobody would want to face in current form but their next opposition aren't in a bad vein a form either.

Each and every result from now until the end of the season could be huge in the push for promotion so Craven Cottage could be in for a very open affair on Tuesday night, as both sides look for the three points.

Over the next few pages, FLW writer Tom Rawcliffe will identify TWO Fulham players who could cause Leeds United big problems come Tuesday night....

Sone Aluko
(https://cdn.footballleagueworld.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Sone-Aluko.jpg)

Fulham made a big statement at the beginning of the season as they brought in Sone Aluko from Premier League side Hull City.

The decision to sign the versatile attacker certainly hasn't backfired as his influence on the side is never ending.

His five goals and eight assists this season have had a sizeable effect on the side and wherever he plays on Tuesday night, his pace and trickery is sure to cause the Leeds backline problems.

Ryan Fredericks
(https://cdn.footballleagueworld.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Ryan-FredericksRyan-Fredericksbbcbcbc.jpg)

Whilst the obvious threats such as Tom Cairney need to be watched, there are other players who have gone under the radar this season and that includes Ryan Fredericks.

The full-back has shown his qualities this season both in an attacking sense and also defensively.

The 24-year-old is certainly not scared of venturing forward and he showed this on Saturday's game as he claimed an impressive assist against Preston North End.



http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/these-2-fulham-players-will-cause-leeds-united-serious-problems-on-tuesday-night/ (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/these-2-fulham-players-will-cause-leeds-united-serious-problems-on-tuesday-night/)

 
Pressure is all on the Cottagers says United assistant Clotet as play-off rivals go head to head

LEEDS UNITED assistant manager Pep Clotet insists the pressure is on Fulham tonight ahead of a potentially pivotal clash in the race for the play-offs.

The Elland Road club has spent the past four months in the top six and look well set to extend their season beyond the final day of the regular season on May 7.

Eight points separate United in fourth place from the chasing pack but with Slavisa Jokanovic's side looking the only side capable of making a concerted push to dislodge any of the clubs occupying a play-off place then tonight's clash at Craven Cottage could have big ramifications.

"We are prepared to fight for every game and we take every game as very important," said Clotet, who will resume normal duties after standing in for the suspended Garry Monk on the touchline during Friday night's win at Birmingham City.

"After the game you look at the balance. Maybe a point will be a fair result or maybe you had a better game, or a worse game. You judge the result after. But before it you always have to look to get a win. We are preparing to win.

"For them, the situation is a bit different than for us. Every point really counts for them and we understand they will go full-on because the closer they can get (to the top six) and the better results they have against the teams who are there, the more chance they have to go to the play-offs."

With Norwich City and Derby County having dropped precious points in recent weeks, the Cottagers have emerged as the major threat to a top six that contains three Yorkshire clubs.

The Cottages have scored more goals than all bar leaders Newcastle United of the sides above them in the table, and their goal difference is superior to those of Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday, Huddersfield Town and Reading.

Fulham have momentum, though this is something Monk's United also boast after beating Sheffield Wednesday and Birmigham City in back-to-back games in front of the live Sky cameras.

"Fulham are a team who are clear how they play," Clotet said.

"They're very good at building from the back and they're very good at keeping a high level of possession and using that possession to create chances.

"They have a few weak points but they are a strong side, especially at home because they have the confidence to play their football.

"It is not easy to battle."

Charlie Taylor and Ronaldo Vieira both return to the squad after failing to make the 18 on duty at St Andrews on Friday night despite Monk admitting both were available.

Neither is likely to make the starting XI, however, for a visit to a ground where the hosts have won six of their last eight league outings and also humbled Premier League Hull City in the FA Cup

Clotet added: "We all agree we had a very good result on Friday. Obviously, it gives you a boost going to Fulham but we know it is going to be a very hard game. We have a very hard game in front of us."

Last six games: Fulham WWLWDW, Leeds United LLWDWW. Referee: L Probert (Wiltshire).

Last time: Fulham 1 Leeds United 1; October 21, 2015; Championship.



Read more at: http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/pressure-is-all-on-the-cottagers-says-united-assistant-clotet-as-play-off-rivals-go-head-to-head-1-8424794 (http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/pressure-is-all-on-the-cottagers-says-united-assistant-clotet-as-play-off-rivals-go-head-to-head-1-8424794)

 
Fulham v Leeds United: We must be on the front foot at Fulham, insists Bridcutt

Tonight is a rare occasion when Leeds United could be tempted to take a point before kick-off. It is not the way under Garry Monk – no squad in the Championship has drawn fewer games than his – but the first priority at Craven Cottage will be to stop Fulham gaining ground.

Fulham have much to cover if they are to finish above Leeds but the results over the weekend left the West London club, in seventh place, as the only conceivable challengers to the clubs lodged in the Championship's top six.

(http://res.cloudinary.com/jpress/image/fetch/w_700,f_auto,ar_3:2,c_fill/http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/webimage/1.8424726.1488835391!/image/image.jpg)
Liam Bridcutt.

They are five points behind Sheffield Wednesday, seven behind Reading and eight behind Leeds with a game in hand over all of them. "My team are definitely playing with confidence," said Fulham's manager, Slavisa Jokanovic, after a 3-1 win over Preston North End on Saturday.

The same can be said of Monk's side and the concept of playing for a draw at Craven Cottage is at odds with the way Leeds think.

The threat tonight is that Fulham move to within five points of United but Monk's captain, Liam Bridcutt, is more interested in killing off the challenge completely.

"We go into every game wanting to win and knowing we can win," Bridcutt said. "Tuesday's going to be no different. We're going there to be on the front foot, looking to win the game."

Leeds and Fulham shared a 1-1 draw at Elland Road in mid-August, conjuring strange levels of emotion for a game so early in the calendar.

Fulham's display was, in Monk's eyes, as fluent and as easy to appreciate as that delivered by any team against Leeds this season and Jokanovic was aggrieved to see his team concede an overhead kick from Chris Wood in the third minute of injury time.

Wood needed that goal badly and reacted to it by cupping his ear to the Elland Road crowd, a pointed gesture to the sections of it who had targeted him for criticism a few days earlier.

Wood has not looked back from that finish and his brace at Birmingham City on Friday night took him to 25 for the season, the highest tally in England's top four divisions. He is on course to become only the fifth player in United's history – after Jermaine Beckford, John Charles, Peter Lorimer and Tom Jennings – to score 30 in one season.

Bridcutt completed a permanent transfer to Leeds from Sunderland on the day of Fulham's draw in Yorkshire, the end of a protracted transfer saga. "I remember watching them from the crowd," he said. "I said then that they were easily one of the best teams in the Championship in terms of the performance that they put in on that day.

"But in the Championship you're never set and it doesn't matter how good a team you've got or how good your performances are. It's about picking up results. That's how you're going to end up at the top.

"We know they're a good side and we're not deluded. We know it's going to be difficult. Every game from now until the end of the season is going to be massive."

Fulham have a striker in Chris Martin who, despite his brash refusal to play in December with Derby County keen to recall him from a season-long loan, has taken his goals into double figures but the centre of midfield is where Jokanovic's team tick and where Leeds were outplayed in August.

Tom Cairney, a former Leeds academy player, has seven league goals and nine assists. Stefan Johansen, a Norwegian who signed from Celtic, boasts similar statistics. Kevin McDonald occupies a holding role, allowing Fulham to exploit their pace out wide.

Monk's midfield made hard work of a wet night at Birmingham on Friday and it took the second-half introduction of Kalvin Phillips, a replacement for Eunan O'Kane, to turn the tide. Monk opted to rest Ronaldo Vieira, omitting him from his squad completely, but the 18-year-old's mobility and energy might suit tonight's game. Monk also has a decision to make on Pablo Hernandez, whose influence in matches away from home has been limited.

Leeds, nonetheless, are effective at turning the screw on clubs around them.

Their win over Sheffield Wednesday in an early kick-off 10 days ago put pressure on the teams in or close to the top six.

Their 3-1 victory at Birmingham, 24 hours before Fulham hosted Preston, did likewise. A similar result at Craven Cottage would put them all but beyond Fulham's reach, 11 points to the good with 10 games to play. "We're making it difficult for people," Bridcutt said.

"Last week (against Sheffield Wednesday) we were the early kick-off and everyone was hoping we were going to slip up. We didn't. We showed a great attitude.

"Again (at Birmingham), playing earlier on the Friday, we made it tougher for everyone else.

"We weren't at our best but to score three goals and win the game says a lot for the team and a lot about what the manager's done since he came in. The boys want to go and progress.

"Teams are showing us respect now and making it difficult for us.

"Everyone wants to beat Leeds United because they know about the history of the club but it makes even harder when you're at the top of the table. There's a bit more determination from other teams to beat us."



Read more at: http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-we-must-be-on-the-front-foot-at-fulham-insists-bridcutt-1-8424727 (http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-we-must-be-on-the-front-foot-at-fulham-insists-bridcutt-1-8424727)

 
LUFC Leeds A Big Price To Win At Fulham

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

Both clubs are vying for promotion with Leeds currently fourth and Fulham seventh in the Championship table.

Fulham are in great form, they have won their last five games at home, and they know a win would move them to within five points of Leeds with a game in hand.

Leeds have picked up ten points from a possible twelve in their last four games and they know a win would move them a step closer to guaranteeing a top six finish.

SkyBet make Fulham 4/5 favourites, Leeds are 15/5 and it is 11/4 on the draw.

Striker Chris Martin scored his 12th goal of the season for Fulham in their 3-1 win over Preston North End at the weekend. The on loan Derby striker will be looking to add to his tally against Leeds and the Scottish international is 7/2 to score the first goal.

Leeds striker Chris Wood continued his fantastic form this season in front of goal, with two goals in the 3-1 win at Birmingham City last time out.

Wood has now scored 25 goals this season and he is 9/2 to score the first 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=483128#ixzz4adBv7tSp (http://www.leeds.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=483128#ixzz4adBv7tSp)

 
March 'will make or break Fulham's season,' says Cairney
by Dan on March 7, 2017


Tom Cairney says March will define Fulham's season, but the in-form midfielder isn't daunted by the task ahead of his side as they try to break into the Championship's top six.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side have two crucial games against two of the promotion favourites in the space of four days – Fulham face Leeds United at Craven Cottage tonight and then travel to St. James' Park to take on Newcastle United at the weekend. The Whites have four home fixtures during March and the Fulham captain told GetWestLondon that he is targeting three wins:

    This month is defining – I think it will make or break our season we have four home games and I think we have to win at least three. We have another cup final here on Tuesday and we have to chase the pack down and I think if we keep playing like that (against Preston) we won't be far off.

Cairney, who was released by Leeds as a teenager because he was 'too small,' is looking forward to tonight's test against Gary Monk's impressive outfit.

    I think Leeds are going to bring about 40,000 fans down probably, it's one of those games you want to play and want to be involved in so I'm looking forward to it. It's not daunting because we have a game in hand, we have to win that game but it isn't daunting and five points in this league is nothing.


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/03/march-will-make-or-break-fulhams-season-says-cairney/ (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/03/march-will-make-or-break-fulhams-season-says-cairney/)

 
Fulham v Leeds United - All you need to know about Tuesday's Craven Cottage clash


LEEDS UNITED head down to London on Tuesday night attempting to strengthen their place in the Championship play-offs.

Fulham are one of the sides hovering outside the top six looking for one or more of the sides above them to slip up. Here, we give you our usual pre-match guide on all you need to know before kick-off.

Key Battle: Stefan Johansen v Liam Bridcutt

Johansen is part of a highly-effective Fulham midfield and his stats speak for themselves: nine goals throughout the campaign, including a streak of four in as many games in December, and a tally of assists which is bettered only by Tom Cairney. Leeds cannot afford to give Fulham as much of the ball as they gave Birmingham on Friday and this particular battle will be crucial.

Key Man: Tom Cairney

Famously declared too small by Leeds and allowed to leave their academy as a teenager but he is proving himself to be one of the best midfielders in the Championship this season. Seven goals and nine assists is exactly what you look for from a player in his position and Leeds saw in August how deadly a finisher Cairney can be.

The last time ... at Craven Cottage
When? Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Score? Fulham 1 Leeds United 1

Who scored? Fulham - Dembele 23. Leeds - Wood 64 pen.


http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-all-you-need-to-know-about-tuesday-s-craven-cottage-clash-1-8424869 (http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-all-you-need-to-know-about-tuesday-s-craven-cottage-clash-1-8424869)

 
Fulham star looks ahead at "defining" period as the play-off race hots up

According to Get West London, Tom Cairney believes that March is a "defining" month which will make or break Fulham's season.

The Cottagers enter the final part of the season in seventh place and they are hot on the trail of Sheffield Wednesday – five points behind but with a game in hand which could take them to within two.

Fulham star Cairney said:

"This month is defining – I think it will make or break our season we have four home games and I think we have to win at least three.

"We have another cup final here on Tuesday and we have to chase the pack down and I think if we keep playing like that (against Preston) we won't be far off.

I think Leeds are going to bring about 40,000 fans down probably, it's one of those games you want to play and want to be involved in so I'm looking forward to it.

"It's not daunting because we have a game in hand, we have to win that game but it isn't daunting and five points in this league is nothing."


http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-star-looks-ahead-at-defining-period-as-the-play-off-race-hots-up/ (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-star-looks-ahead-at-defining-period-as-the-play-off-race-hots-up/)

 
Television pundit makes big prediction ahead of significant clash between Leeds and Fulham

Writing in his prediction column for Sky Sports, David Prutton believes Leeds United will continue their recent winning streak, and record their third consecutive victory this evening against Fulham.

Prutton is predicting Garry Monk's side to win 2-1 at Craven Cottage tonight, and strengthen their grip on a Play-Off place.

Leeds have recorded back-to-back victories over Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham City to move fourth in the Sky Bet Championship, but face a tough test against Slavisa Jokanovic's Play-Off chasing Fulham, who sit seventh in the table.

Chris Wood has three goals in his last two appearances, taking his tally for the season to 25, and Prutton believes he could again be the difference tonight, he wrote: "Leeds can win games in an un-sexy fashion, like they did at Birmingham. It won't be easy against one of the best footballing teams in the division, but Chris Wood could just make the difference."

Victory for Monk's side will see them open up an 11-point gap to Fulham, with many, including Prutton, believing that will be enough to secure a place in the top-six.


http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/television-pundit-makes-big-prediction-ahead-of-significant-clash-between-leeds-and-fulham/ (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/television-pundit-makes-big-prediction-ahead-of-significant-clash-between-leeds-and-fulham/)

 
Why Kemar Roofe should start ahead of Leeds teammate Pablo Hernandez against Fulham

Leeds United and Fulham go head-to-head this week in a vital league clash.

The footballing enigma that is Pablo Hernandez was in full view on Friday evening, as the Leeds United play-maker hardly had a meaningful kick before a moment of magic set up a late goal that sealed a 3-1 victory.

The problem is, for all his ability Hernandez is not cut out for tough away days in the Championship where he is not granted the time and space to dictate the game and, while some Leeds fans will disagree, he should be dropped for the upcoming clash with Fulham.

Given the Cottagers' resurgence and their position just outside the play-off places, Tuesday's match is one of the biggest and most important of Leeds' season, meaning manager Garry Monk needs to get his team selection spot on.

While Hernandez has it in him to pluck a moment of magic out of nothing, his overall performance against Birmingham means he should be dropped in favour of Kemar Roofe.

The summer signing has had to make do with a bit-part role in recent weeks but he should operate as a secondary striker behind Chris Wood, causing problems for Fulham's defence with his movement and ability to hit on the counter-attack.

If the game is close with time running out, bringing Hernandez off the bench to prise open a tiring back-line could then be Monk's best bet. But Roofe deserves to start in a match that is simply not made for his Leeds teammate.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/06/why-kemar-roofe-should-start-ahead-of-leeds-teammate-pablo-herna/ (http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/06/why-kemar-roofe-should-start-ahead-of-leeds-teammate-pablo-herna/)

 
Leeds United player lays down the aim for tonight's clash with Fulham

Leeds United captain Liam Bridcutt insists his side will be looking for nothing less than a victory tonight against Fulham, reports the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Garry Monk's side face a test of their promotion credentials tonight, when they travel to Craven Cottage, to face a Fulham side who are pushing to break into the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs.

The Whites are currently fourth in the Championship table, eight-points ahead of Slavisa Jokanovic's side, heading into this evening's game.

Tonight is an occasion where many Leeds fans believe a draw would be a good result, keeping a Play-Off rival a comfortable distance away from them.

However, Bridcutt insists Leeds will be looking for nothing less than three-points, he told the YEP: "We go into every game wanting to win and knowing we can win.

"Tuesday's going to be no different. We're going there to be on the front foot, looking to win the game."

Fulham are in fine form, and are undefeated in their last five league fixtures, winning four of those, including a 3-1 victory over Preston North End last weekend.

Monk's side drew 1-1 with Fulham at the start of the season, where Bridcutt watched from the stand and was impressed with Jokanovic's side, he continued: "I remember watching them from the crowd.

"I said then that they were easily one of the best teams in the Championship in terms of the performance that they put in on that day."

Leeds themselves will be full of confidence following back-to-back victories over Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham City, and looking to close the seven-point gap to the automatic promotion places.


http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/leeds-united-player-lays-down-the-aim-for-tonights-clash-with-fulham/ (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/leeds-united-player-lays-down-the-aim-for-tonights-clash-with-fulham/)

 
Key duo set to miss out for Leeds at Fulham

According to a source, Luke Ayling and Chris Wood are both set to miss the game against Fulham. Luke Ayling's partner is expecting the birth of their child and Chris Wood has a knock. This would be a massive loss for Leeds in a massive game. However last time we played without Wood starting we beat Preston 4-1, so you never know.

I hope this information is wrong and they do start, but it's a really trustworthy source. Let's hope the rest of the players step up.


Read more at http://leedsallover.com/key-duo-set-to-miss-out-for-leeds-at-fulham/#mxzkcRQpOcLGtFqz.99 (http://leedsallover.com/key-duo-set-to-miss-out-for-leeds-at-fulham/#mxzkcRQpOcLGtFqz.99)

 
Rotherham On Sale

Fulham kick-off a busy month on the road as we travel to Rotherham United on Saturday 1st April, kick-off 3pm.

Tickets for the match are now on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members, priced at £23 for adults and from £6 for juniors. Tickets will go on General Sale from 10am on Monday 13th March. Full ticket information can be found here.

To purchase, buy online, by phone on 0843 208 1234 or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

Follow Fulham Away and get behind the boys!


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/07/rotherham-on-sale (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/07/rotherham-on-sale)

 
"We're in the Thames if Berardi scores" – Leeds fans react ahead of crucial Fulham tie

Leeds United travel down to London tonight to take on Fulham in a game which promises to be a mouth watering clash between two play-off hopefuls.

Leeds enter the game unbeaten in four and will be hoping to make it three consecutive wins to really shore up their spot within the play-offs.

Fulham, on the other hand, are hotly pursuing sixth place and they currently trail Sheffield Wednesday by five points, although they do have a game in hand.

The Cottagers also come into this clash on form, having won four and drawn one of their last five league games.

Currently 4th, Garry Monk's side could extend their cushion over seventh place Fulham to eleven points with just twelve games to play.

But they face a tricky test against a talented Fulham side, who are performing well under Slavisa Jovanovic.


http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/were-in-the-thames-if-berardi-scores-leeds-fans-react-ahead-of-crucial-fulham-tie/ (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/were-in-the-thames-if-berardi-scores-leeds-fans-react-ahead-of-crucial-fulham-tie/)

 
All The Small Things

As the season edges into the business end of the campaign, Michael Madl has his eyes set on Fulham gatecrashing the Play-Off party.


"There are some big games in front of us, but everyone knows what they have to do," he tells Tuesday's official matchday programme for the visit of Leeds United.

"We're focused and I'm confident we can get the points we need. We have four home matches this month, which is positive. It also gives us the chance to play in front of our fans more, too, and they can help us get victories. It's about the small things and they can be a part of that."


To read the full interview with Madl, pick up a programme on Tuesday.

Other highlights from the matchday magazine include:

    Head Coach Slaviša Jokanović and skipper Scott Parker pen their latest columns
    David Button dishes the dirt on his Whites teammates
    Lee Clark revisits his eventful stay in SW6
    We continue our countdown of '100 Memorable Moments' in the Club's history
    And Erik Nevland picks the best XI he played with during his stint at the Cottage

Priced £3.50, the programme is available along Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Or order it online from ProgrammeMaster.

For just £1.99, the programme is also available as a digital download on your iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, PC or Mac via Apple's Newsstand or Pocketmags from 12pm on Tuesday.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/07/madl-programme-leeds (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/07/madl-programme-leeds)

 
Micky Quinn predicts Fulham v Leeds United

Fulham are set to take on Leeds United at Craven Cottage later this evening.

Micky Quinn has told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, which was broadcast on TalkSPORT on 7th March, that he believes Fulham will beat Leeds United later this evening.

Fulham are set to take on Leeds at Craven Cottage, in a match which will be huge for both side's play off chances.

Fulham are currently lurking just outside the top six, while Leeds are looking to consolidate their place within the play off spots.

The Whites are currently in a position of strength, but Quinn believes that Fulham will be able to get past Garry Monk's side.

"I've been impressed by Fulham," the pundit said. "They were a little bit disappointing in the FA Cup performance against Spurs, but they're a good team. I fancy Fulham to beat Leeds tonight."

If Fulham do beat Leeds tonight they will close the gap on the Yorkshire side down to five points.

However, if Monk's men are able to win the fixture, their place in the play offs will look totally secure.

Leeds could put 11 points between them and the chasing pack, which would surely be an unassailable advantage, with just 11 games remaining this term.

Leeds head into the fixture against Fulham on the back of a victory over Birmingham, and Slavisa Jokanovic's side also won in their last outing against Preston North End.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/07/micky-quinn-predicts-fulham-v-leeds-united/ (http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/07/micky-quinn-predicts-fulham-v-leeds-united/)

 
Leeds Tickets

There's still time to secure your seat for this evening's game against Leeds United (kick-off 7:45pm), with tickets available to supporters with a Booking History.

Fans are encouraged to secure their seat in advance, with sales on the night from the Fulham Ticket Office only. Tickets will not be available to buy on the turnstiles.

Prices start from £30 adults and £15 juniors and are available to purchase online now, by phone on 0843 208 1234 or in person fromt he Fulham Ticket Office.

Don't miss backing the boys under the lights this evening - COYW!

Owing to booking restrictions, supporters are reminded they must log in to their accounts in order to purchase tickets online.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/07/leeds-tickets (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/07/leeds-tickets)

 
LUFC Former Premier League Official In Charge

Former Premier League referee Lee Probert will be the man in charge of the clash between Fulham and Leeds United.

The Wiltshire official has taken charge of 23 games so far this season showing 40 yellow cards and 2 reds.

Probert only returned to refereeing this season after missing the whole of the last campaign through injury.

His last game in charge of Fulham was in January 2015 when they drew 0-0 with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Craven Cottage.

Probert was last in charge of Leeds in January 2014. He took charge of the 6-0 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday in a game where he sent off Leeds striker Matt Smith just minutes after coming on as a second half substitute.

He was also the official when substitute Tresor Kandol was sent off at Norwich City in 2010. Kandol had been on the pitch less than 30 seconds when he was shown a straight red card.

Referee: LEE PROBERT (Wiltshire)
Assistants: Matthew Wilkes and Daniel Cook
Fourth Official: Oliver Langford



Read more: http://www.leeds.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=483129#ixzz4ae0VY4z0 (http://www.leeds.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=483129#ixzz4ae0VY4z0)

 
'Already nervous' – Leeds fans not confident ahead of vital Fulham clash

Our Leeds fans here in the Transfer Tavern are gearing up for another massive game in the race for promotion this season as their club travels to London to take on Fulham.

The Whites have gone well so far this season under Garry Monk but this game has the potential to throw a spanner in the works given their hosts' ability to crack home goals for fun.

Indeed, the Cottagers have their own plans on getting into the play-off places by the end of the season and so Monk and his men will have to be ready for an early onslaught down by the River Thames.

Get past that, though, and the Whites should have every chance of getting away with three points – especially when you consider that Fulham are also poor at the back.

A massive game for both, then, and it appears on Twitter that Leeds fans aren't as confident as they might be given their recent form.


http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds/already-nervous-leeds-fans-not-confident-ahead-of-vital-fulham-clash/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29 (http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds/already-nervous-leeds-fans-not-confident-ahead-of-vital-fulham-clash/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29)

 
Fulham v Leeds United: Pressure all on Cottagers says Pep Clotet

LEEDS UNITED assistant manager Pep Clotet insists the pressure is on Fulham tonight ahead of a potentially pivotal clash in the race for the play-offs.

The Elland Road club has spent the past four months in the top six and look well set to extend their season beyond the final day of the regular season on May 7.

Eight points separate United in fourth place from the chasing pack but with Slavisa Jokanovic's side looking the only side capable of making a concerted push to dislodge any of the clubs occupying a play-off place then tonight's clash at Craven Cottage could have big ramifications.

"We are prepared to fight for every game and we take every game as very important," said Clotet, who will resume normal duties after standing in for the suspended Garry Monk on the touchline during Friday night's win at Birmingham City.

"After the game you look at the balance. Maybe a point will be a fair result or maybe you had a better game, or a worse game. You judge the result after. But before it you always have to look to get a win. We are preparing to win.

"For them, the situation is a bit different than for us. Every point really counts for them and we understand they will go full-on because the closer they can get (to the top six) and the better results they have against the teams who are there, the more chance they have to go to the play-offs."

With Norwich City and Derby County having dropped precious points in recent weeks, the Cottagers have emerged as the major threat to a top six that contains three Yorkshire clubs.

The Cottages have scored more goals than all bar leaders Newcastle United of the sides above them in the table, and their goal difference is superior to those of Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday, Huddersfield Town and Reading.

Fulham have momentum, though this is something Monk's United also boast after beating Sheffield Wednesday and Birmigham City in back-to-back games in front of the live Sky cameras.

"Fulham are a team who are clear how they play," Clotet said. "They're very good at building from the back and they're very good at keeping a high level of possession and using that possession to create chances.

"They have a few weak points but they are a strong side, especially at home because they have the confidence to play their football.

"It is not easy to battle."

Charlie Taylor and Ronaldo Vieira both return to the squad after failing to make the 18 on duty at St Andrews on Friday night despite Monk admitting both were available.

Neither is likely to make the starting XI, however, for a visit to a ground where the hosts have won six of their last eight league outings and also humbled Premier League Hull City in the FA Cup

Clotet added: "We all agree we had a very good result on Friday. Obviously, it gives you a boost going to Fulham but we know it is going to be a very hard game. We have a very hard game in front of us."

Last six games: Fulham WWLWDW, Leeds United LLWDWW.

Referee: L Probert (Wiltshire).


http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-pressure-all-on-cottagers-says-pep-clotet-1-8424794 (http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/fulham-v-leeds-united-pressure-all-on-cottagers-says-pep-clotet-1-8424794)

 
Leeds captain Liam Bridcutt discloses what he said about Fulham following their previous meeting

Liam Bridcutt was in the stands for Leeds United's draw with Fulham earlier in the campaign.

Liam Bridcutt has explained that he thought that Fulham were easily one of the best teams in the Championship when he watched Leeds' clash with the Cottagers in August, the Yorkshire Evening Post reports.

Garry Monk's men face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Tuesday in a game that could have major implications for the play-off race.

The Whites are currently fourth in the table while Slavisa Jokanovic's side sit seventh, eight points adrift of their upcoming opponents but with a game in hand.

And while Fulham's emergence into the play-off race may have caught some by surprise, Bridcutt has suggested the two teams' previous meeting - for which the midfielder was sat in the stands, having only just completed his permanent switch to Elland Road beforehand - convinced him that they would be in the running for promotion this season.

"I remember watching them from the crowd," he said, as reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post. "I said then that they were easily one of the best teams in the Championship in terms of the performance that they put in on that day.

With Fulham so impressive lately, it would undoubtedly be a massive boost for Leeds if they could secure a positive result that keeps their opponents at bay in the table.

Monk's men have three of the top five still to play this term, and so a point or perhaps a victory against a Fulham side with plenty of momentum will give them a tremendous amount of confidence going into a tough run of games to end the campaign.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/07/leeds-captain-liam-bridcutt-discloses-what-he-said-about-fulham/ (http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/07/leeds-captain-liam-bridcutt-discloses-what-he-said-about-fulham/)

 
Very impressive news revealed ahead of Leeds' vital trip to Fulham tonight

Our Leeds fans here in the Transfer Tavern cannot wait to see their side take on Fulham this evening as they look to continue their challenge for promotion.

The Championship race never fails to disappoint and we've certainly got a fascinating battle on at the moment with the Whites right in the thick of the action.

Indeed, Fulham are also planning on getting involved between now and May and so we could be in for a cracker when it comes down to kick-off in west London.

And, whilst it may be an away game for the Elland Road side, it does seem as though the travelling support are going to make Craven Cottage their's as much as possible

That really is incredible when you consider the distance and time involved for the fixture and so here in the Transfer Tavern we only hope a cracker at the Cottage is laid on for all those at the game.


http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds/very-impressive-news-revealed-ahead-of-leeds-vital-trip-to-fulham-tonight/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29 (http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds/very-impressive-news-revealed-ahead-of-leeds-vital-trip-to-fulham-tonight/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29)

 
U18s Fixture Update



The Under-18s fixtures for the remainder of the season have been released, starting with hosting Aston Villa this Saturday at Motspur Park.

Having finished fifth in the Premier League South, Fulham are in Group 2.

They are joined by Stoke, Derby, Everton and Middlesbrough from the PL North; and Norwich, Spurs and Villa from the PL South.

Some kick off times are yet to be confirmed, the fixtures are as follows:


Sat 11/03/17 – Aston Villa (H)

Sat 18/03/17 – Stoke City (A)

Sat 01/04/17 – Derby County (H)

Sat 08/04/17 – Everton (A) 11am

Sat 22/04/17 – Norwich City (H) 12pm

Sat 29/04/17 – Tottenham Hotspur (A) 11am

Sat 13/05/17 – Middlesbrough (H) 11am


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/07/u18s-fixture-update (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/07/u18s-fixture-update)

 
Leeds United set for huge boost as the race for the Play-Offs gathers pace

Leeds United are set to take just short of 7,000 fans to Fulham tonight, for their clash in the Sky Bet Championship, reports reliable journalist Lee Sobot.

After selling out their away stand allocation, fans have opted to buy tickets in the mixed area of Craven Cottage, to support their side.

Garry Monk's side are frequently followed by masses of support away from home, with Leeds taking over 3,000 fans to Birmingham City on Friday night, along with selling out their allocation at Blackburn Rovers last month.


http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/leeds-united-set-for-huge-boost-as-the-race-for-the-play-offs-gathers-pace/ (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/leeds-united-set-for-huge-boost-as-the-race-for-the-play-offs-gathers-pace/)

 
Speculation rife on Twitter that Leeds key duo injured for Fulham clash, fans are worried sick

Leeds take on promotion rivals Fulham on Tuesday night in a crucial Championship clash – and fans on Twitter are worried that Chris Wood and Luke Ayling are injured.

Rumours are circulating on social media that the senior duo may have missed the trip to London because of injuries.

The speculation has not got down well with the Yorkshire faithful, who have a crucial encounter on their hands at Craven Cottage.

Fulham, who are sitting one place outside of the top six, are eight points behind the Whites in the table, but they also have a game in hand on Garry Monk's side.

Therefore, the game on Tuesday night becomes very important to the club's hopes of securing a play-off spot, knowing three points will further enhance their chances of finishing there at the end of the season.

Striker Wood has been a key figure behind their success, 22 goals this season, including two in his last two games, are examples of what the New Zealander brings to the table.

On the other hand, right-back Ayling has been an unsung hero for the club in defence and if he is injured then he will be a big miss to the side.

The possible replacements for the duo are playing Gaetano Berardi at right-back, with Charlie Taylor coming in at left-back.

While the versatile attacker, Souleymane Doukara could play in a more advanced forward role for Monk's side.



http://www.footballinsider247.com/leeds-fans-worried-that-senior-duo-are-injured-for-fulham-clash/ (http://www.footballinsider247.com/leeds-fans-worried-that-senior-duo-are-injured-for-fulham-clash/)

 
Fulham play-off charge showing no signs of slowing down; Leeds match crucial

The Whites have maintained their pressure on sixth place and a result against Leeds on Tuesday could help them believe.

Fulham remain one of the outside bets for the playoffs, five points, but with a game in hand on that last spot in the top six; Sheffield Wednesday. However, with a fixture against Leeds United - just above them in fourth - coming on Tuesday, the Cottagers could yet ignite a late season run with victory.

While Sheffield Wednesday made a big statement about their play-off intentions by thrashing top six rivals Norwich City 5-1, Fulham made one of their own with their 3-1 win over fellow play-off hopefuls Preston North End.

Goals from Sone Aluko, Chris Martin and Neeskens Kebano put a spirited PNE to the sword at Craven Cottage, and all but ended their faint play-off hopes in the process.

Fulham's campaign for the top six meanwhile, is still very much on, with Slavisa Jokanovic's side just five points behind Wednesday, with that crucial game in hand at home to Blackburn Rovers still to play.

But for a clinical striker, and Jokanovic's Fulham could well be challenging the top two - let alone the top six - with the Whites winning many plaudits for their sublime style of play under the former Watford boss.

Jokanovic's side pass the ball extremely well and create chances galore, while still remaining fairly solid at the back, and news that the Serbian manager has signed a new deal lasting until 2019 has been tremendously received at Craven Cottage.

Fulham's next two games pose the biggest threat to their play-off hopes - a home match against fourth placed Leeds United followed by a trip to table toppers Newcastle United - but they are capable of picking up points in both games, which fans will hope set them off on a determined chase down of the sides above them.

In particular, the game against Leeds would see Fulham move within five points of the Yorkshire team, with a game in hand. It's fair to say it is a big game at Craven Cottage.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/07/fulham-play-off-charge-showing-no-signs-of-slowing-down/ (http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/07/fulham-play-off-charge-showing-no-signs-of-slowing-down/)

 
EXCITING LEEDS STAR LETS OUT RALLYING CRY AHEAD OF FULHAM CLASH

Leeds United fans in the Transfer Tavern are getting a few fine ales in before their trip to west London this evening.

And the Whites are raising a glass in honour of recent signing Alfonso Pedraza, who has already gained quite the reputation in Yorkshire since arriving on loan from Villarreal at the end of the January transfer window.

The silky Spaniard struggled to make the most of his first two outings for the Whites but scored from the bench in a 3-1 win against Birmingham last Friday, ruling out any chance of a late comeback from the Midlands outfit.

Seemingly fully embracing the Elland Road spirit already, the 20-year-old simply can't wait to get back on the pitch and has sent out an inspiring rallying cry to Leeds supporters ahead of tonight's Champions League clash at Craven Cottage.

He appears raring to go and ready to aid Leeds in their bid for promotion. Garry Monk's side are currently fourth in the Championship, seven points away from an automatic promotion spot.


http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds/exciting-leeds-star-lets-out-rallying-cry-ahead-of-fulham-clash/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29 (http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds/exciting-leeds-star-lets-out-rallying-cry-ahead-of-fulham-clash/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29)

 
RELIABLE JOURNALIST RESPONDS TO RUMOUR LEEDS STAR PAIR TO MISS FULHAM SHOWDOWN

Leeds duo Chris Wood and Luke Ayling could miss the team's Championship clash against Fulham on Tuesday night, according to a reliable journalist.

Yorkshire Evening Post reporter Phil Hay gave some insight into their availability on Twitter hours before kick-off.

Asked by a Leeds fan if there was any truth in speculation that striker Wood and right-back Ayling may miss the Craven Cottage encounter, Hay reported there is a "suggestion" that Wood may have a calf problem while Ayling's wife could have given birth to their child.

Hay did emphasise that this information was "unconfirmed" but it gave credence to rumours the pair will be missing from the starting XI.

Prior to his comments, the Elland Road faithful were worried sick on Twitter that their star duo could possibly miss such an important showdown.

The experienced campaigners have been key figures for Garry Monk this season helping the Englishmen mould his team into a promotion chasing outfit.

Striker Wood has arguably been their most important player with the New Zealand international scoring 22 goals in the Championship this term.

He scored during the club's previous two victories against Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday and a brace against Birmingham City last Friday.

At this moment in time, the Whites are sitting in fourth place in the table on 64 points from their 35 matches, eight points ahead of seventh-placed Fulham.

The London club crucially have a game in hand on their rivals, so the game in midweek becomes even more significant.

If the duo are to miss the trip to Craven Cottage then Marcus Antonsson could be a possible replacement for Wood, while Lewie Coyle could become a makeshift right-back.

Dropped points in the capital could see the chasing pack close in on the Yorkshire club at such a crucial stage of the season.


http://www.footballinsider247.com/reliable-journalist-responds-to-rumour-leeds-star-pair-to-to-miss-fulham-showdown/ (http://www.footballinsider247.com/reliable-journalist-responds-to-rumour-leeds-star-pair-to-to-miss-fulham-showdown/)

 
Leeds United must start in-form Kalvin Phillips against free-scoring Fulham

The 21-year-old was excellent off the bench against Birmingham City on Friday and could make a major impact for Leeds United at Craven Cottage.

Kalvin Phillips may not quite catch the eye like Lewis Cook or command Premier League interest like Charlie Taylor but the 21-year-old has quietly cemented his place in the Leeds United first-team this season.

After starting just three league games in 2015/16, Monk has deployed the local-born midfielder from the off on 17 occasions this season. However, could it be a half-hour cameo appearance off the bench that earns him an even larger role in the first-team picture?

Arriving on the hour mark with Leeds level in a tight clash with Birmingham City on Friday, Phillips immediately helped swing the game in the visitors' direction by setting up Chris Wood for his second of the night two minutes after his introduction.

Furthermore, in just half an hour, Phillips completed more tackles (4) than any other Leeds player except Gaetano Berardi and midfield scrapper Liam Bridcutt while helping to disrupt a hitherto impressive Birmingham midfield with a further two interceptions and three fouls.

And while his role often goes under the radar, overshadowed by his more glamorous team-mates, Monk is a big fan of his work ethic and dedication – attributes that could make him an essential component in Tuesday's crucial fixture with Fulham.

Slavisa Jokanovic's Cottagers, just five points adrift off the final play-off place, are the third highest goalscorers in the division with the likes of Tom Cairney, Sone Aluko and Stefan Johansen capable of scoring and creating from midfield.

Therefore, the Craven Cottage clash could be made for the combative, hard-working Phillips.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/07/do-leeds-united-must-start-in-form-kalvin-phillips-against-free/ (http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/07/do-leeds-united-must-start-in-form-kalvin-phillips-against-free/)

 
LIAM BRIDCUTT SHARES LEEDS MASTERPLAN AHEAD OF FULHAM CLASH

Leeds midfielder Liam Briductt claims his side will be on the front foot and vying for the three points against Fulham.

The Whites travel to Craven Cottage on Tuesday night for an important match in the Championship.

Garry Monk's side are currently fourth-placed in the league and are in a strong position to finish inside the play-off positions.

Meanwhile, seventh-placed Fulham appear to be Leeds' biggest threat of preventing that and are eight points adrift of them with a game in hand.

The Yorkshire giants could be forgiven for thinking an away point at Fulham would be a good result for their promotion aspirations.

However, Leeds captain Bridcutt has revealed that his team are going to be searching for maximum points and stick to their normal positive game plan.

"We go into every game wanting to win and knowing we can win," Bridcutt said, as quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post. "Tuesday's going to be no different. We're going there to be on the front foot, looking to win the game."

Bricutt is likely to continue in the Leeds starting line-up and will be looking to keep an dangerous Fulham side quiet.

The 27-year-old has been an important player for Monk this season and usually helps protect the back four.

He could be kept very busy against a Fulham side that have scored 59 league goals this season, which is 10 more than Leeds have managed.

Slavisa Jokanovic has created an attack-minded side that are regarded as one of the best teams in the Championship to watch this season.

In contrast, Monk's side have proved they can be defensively resolute and will be looking to grind out another result in their pursuit of a Premier League return.


http://www.footballinsider247.com/liam-bridcutt-delivers-leeds-verdict-ahead-of-fulham-clash/ (http://www.footballinsider247.com/liam-bridcutt-delivers-leeds-verdict-ahead-of-fulham-clash/)

 
Revealed: 51% believe Monk is better than Jokanovic

In this week's round of Championship fixtures, Leeds vs. Fulham really stands out.

The two fallen former Premier League sides have endured difficult periods since their exits from the big time, with the Whites having fallen to depths few predicted when they were in the Champions League in the early 2000s, while Fulham's hopes of an immediate bounce back after being relegated in 2013/14 were short lived.

Alas, both have enjoyed better runs of fortune under their current managers Garry Monk and Slavisa Jokanovic, with the Whites sitting comfortably in the play-off zone, while the Cottagers are just outside of the four places with enough games left to break through.


With this game a big one, we asked fans which manager they believe is better, and Monk narrowly edged it with 51%...



http://www.footballfancast.com/debate/poll-results/revealed-51-believe-monk-is-better-than-jokanovic (http://www.footballfancast.com/debate/poll-results/revealed-51-believe-monk-is-better-than-jokanovic)