Friends of Fulham

 
Neeskens Kebano is ready to help Fulham reach the play-offs after adjusting to life in the Championship
The 24-year-old DR Congo player signed from Belgian side Genk in August and has taken time to adapt to his new surroundings, but is now ready to help fire Fulham to their goal

(http://i4.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article12714899.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/at-Fulham-FC-v-Wigan-FC-EFL-Championship-Fulham-Football-Club-Craven-Cottage-Fulham-on-11-02-20.jpg)
Adjustment time: Neeskens Kebano is ready to fire Fulham to their targets (Photo: Lewis Darling)

Neeskens Kebano believes he has finally adapted to the English game and can bring what he does best to the Fulham squad as they hunt down the play-off places.

The 24-year-old signed from Belgian side Genk in August, having plied his trade in the Belgian First Division since September 2013, having played with Charleroi before signing for Genk in 2015.

After an adjustment period at the club where Kebano got to grips with living in London, he has wowed the Craven Cottage faithful in recent weeks with some stunning displays, winning man of the match during the 3-1 victory over Preston on Saturday .

And now, after adjusting, Kebano is ready to help Fulham push for the play-offs, with the help of the fans.

He said: "I took the time to adapt because I moved from another country, so now I know much more about my team mates and it's a bit easier to play with them so I was waiting for my chance.

"Now I have it I try to do my best to bring what I can bring to the squad.

(http://i4.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article12714912.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/DPP_SAH_WL150577_041JPG.jpg)
On the attack: Neeskens Kebano puts in a cross against Leeds United (Photo: Darren Pepe)

"It is always a pleasure to hear praise from the opposition journalists, but I'm just focused on my goal with the team, we have the same goal and that is the most important thing for me and the team.

"This month is very important because we have a game each three days so it is the best way to win the maximum points.

"After this month we will know if we are still in the race for the play offs.

"The fans are very important, like against Leeds where we missed some energy they are always there to push us so with their support we know we can be very strong."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/neeskens-kebano-ready-help-fulham-12714891 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/neeskens-kebano-ready-help-fulham-12714891)

 
Match Day Officials v Fulham (11/3/17)

The Football League have now announced the Match Day officials that will take charge of the game against Fulham this Saturday.

Newcastle United host Fulham on Saturday March 11 for the game at St James' Park and the match carries a 3pm kick off.

Referee: James Linington
Linesmen: Tony Peart and Nick Hopton
Fourth Official: Tony Harrington

Match Day referee Linington has officiated 26 games in 2016/17 with a return of 114 yellow cards and three red cards.

This season he has shown eight yellow cards on three occasions.

He took in 26 matches in 2015-16 and in those games, across all competitions and football divisions, he handed out a total of 74 yellow cards and four red cards.

He was most card happy in the match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Middlesbrough on October 24 with seven yellow cards shown.

Linington is required to make the short trip over from his home on the Isle of Wight when appointed to EFL fixtures. He is a very experienced official having refereed in the EFL for nine seasons. In 2010, he was named fourth official for the FA Trophy Final at Wembley, and returned to the same stadium two weeks later to referee the League Two Play-Off Final between Dagenham and Redbridge and Rotherham United.

Source - EFL.

Let`s hope it`s not another repeat and more of our players edge closer to automatic bans.



Read more: http://www.newcastle.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=483415#ixzz4auFpyfgH (http://www.newcastle.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=483415#ixzz4auFpyfgH)

 
Kalas: Keep It Going

With Fulham maintaining their undefeated stretch of league games in dramatic style on Tuesday, Tomas Kalas says they'll go to Newcastle with no fear.

A Tom Cairney stunner at the death against Leeds United meant the Whites have now not lost a Sky Bet Championship match since early February, with a trip to the league leaders up next on Saturday.


"We're still on the unbeaten run, and we want to keep that going against anyone," Kalas told fulhamfc.com. "We know that we can play against anyone, it doesn't matter if it's Newcastle away or Rotherham away.

"It doesn't really matter, we have to focus on ourselves and keep going game by game."

When asked if the late draw was the least his side deserved in midweek, he stated: "We probably deserved more than that, but you don't always get the results that you deserve.

"We scored two and it finished 1-1. As a central defender, I could see that Neeskens' shot looked as though it bounced over the line.

"I couldn't see if it was completely behind the line, but afterwards I saw that it went in and then out again. But what can we do if the linesman couldn't see it properly.

"It was obviously satisfying at the end with that goal and the character we showed. But from another side it's disappointing because when you see that we are battering a team that's chasing promotion and is one of the better sides, then it's frustrating when we don't win."

Leeds must be sick of their former academy player Cairney after he scored a wonder goal against them for the second time this season, and Kalas is hoping for more of the same from the Fulham number 10.

"He did the same thing in Leeds, so he probably prefers playing against them!" he said. "The goal came from a similar position to the one he got up there. So it seems that's his favourite shot now, and I hope he's going to do it more often."

Tickets for Saturday's trip to St James' Park will only be available for fans to buy up until 3pm on Friday.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/09/tomas-kalas-keep-it-going (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/09/tomas-kalas-keep-it-going)

 
'We can dominate Newcastle United' - Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic


Fulham aim to 'dominate' Newcastle United this weekend, according to boss Slavisa Jokanovic.

Jokanovic's men had the beating of United on the Championship opening night as Matt Smith nodded home a Tom Cairney corner to get Rafa Benitez's second tier campaign off to a disappointing start.

And the Serbian believes that result gives his side plenty to be positive about heading to St James's Park on Saturday.

More than that, though, he thinks his players can dominate 'physical' United on their home turf.

"We are confident," he said.

"We are going to try and find our style - we are going to try and dominate Newcastle.

"They are a physical, very strong team. They are going to look and put the ball behind us and around the space behind our centre-backs.

"We are going to try and move the ball and create our chances.

"I don't expect so many surprises in this game."

Meanwhile, the Fulham boss has heaped praise on former United target Cairney. In fact, Jokanovic claims he's one of the best players in the whole of the second tier.

United did take a look at Cairney, who netted the Cottagers late, late equaliser in midweek against fellow promotion chasers Leeds United, at the start of the January transfer window.

But the Magpies were priced out of a move for the 26-year-old former Scotland Under-21 international, with Fulham rumoured to want in the region of £20million for their prized asset.

"Tom Cairney is a very important player for us," Jokanovic said of his attacking midfielder ahead of the visit to St James's Park.

"He's probably one of the best in the competition."



Read more at: http://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/we-can-dominate-newcastle-united-fulham-boss-slavisa-jokanovic-1-8430041 (http://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/we-can-dominate-newcastle-united-fulham-boss-slavisa-jokanovic-1-8430041)

 
Tomas Kalas "It doesn't matter if it's Newcastle or Rotherham"

Tomas Kalas doesn't fear Newcastle after battering Leeds United, even though they had to rely on a 95th minute equaliser.


Despite 60 points separating Newcastle and Rotherham, Tomas Kalas insists that it doesn't matter to him.

The Fulham defender says that he and his teammates are desperate to keep their unbeaten run going, that has taken them to the brink of the play-off places, and that he believes they can 'play against anyone' – whether top or bottom.

The Czech defender is, like Christian Atsu, one of a legion of players on loan from Chelsea and has been an important player in this recent run of form.

Fulham are unbeaten since February 4 and the latest of that six game run saw them snatch a 95th minute equaliser at home to Leeds on Tuesday.

However, they come up against a Newcastle team who haven't been beaten in the league since 2 January, a run of 11 matches.

Tomas Kalas believes that they deserved a win after 'battering' Leeds and the stats certainly back that up, with 73% possession, 14 corners and 23 shots.

Fulham looked really poor on the opening day of the season when over seven thousand Newcastle fans descended on Craven Cottage – only for Newcastle to turn in what has probably proved to be their worst display of this campaign so far. Tomas Kalas played centre-back that day and helped his team keep a clean sheet against Dwight Gayle and co.

Newcastle could go six points clear of Brighton and 12 ahead of Huddersfield with a win on Saturday, whilst Fulham could close to within two points of the play-offs with a game in hand.

Both teams look far better now than that earlier meeting and hopefully we will see a far better match, with a different result...

Tomas Kalas:

"We're still on the unbeaten run and we want to keep that going against anyone.

"We know that we can play against anyone, it doesn't matter if it's Newcastle or Rotherham away.

"It doesn't really matter – we have to focus on ourselves and keep going game by game.

"We probably deserved more than that (drawing 1-1 with Leeds) but you don't always get the results that you deserve.

"We scored two and it finished 1-1. As a central defender, I could see that Neeskens' shot looked as though it bounced over the line.

"I couldn't see if it was completely behind the line but afterwards I saw that it went in and then out again – but what can we do if the linesman couldn't see it properly.

"It was obviously satisfying at the end with that goal and the character we showed but from another side it's disappointing because when you see that we are battering a team that's chasing promotion, and is one of the better sides, then it's frustrating when we don't win."


http://www.themag.co.uk/2017/03/tomas-kalas-doesnt-matter-newcastle-rotherham-newcastle-united/ (http://www.themag.co.uk/2017/03/tomas-kalas-doesnt-matter-newcastle-rotherham-newcastle-united/)

 
Slavisa Jokanovic makes surprise statement ahead of Fulham's trip to Newcastle United

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic believes his side can dominate Newcastle United this weekend, when the two clubs meet in the Sky Bet Championship, reports the Shields Gazette.

The Cottagers head to St James' Park on a six-match unbeaten run, which they salvaged with a late draw against Leeds United on Tuesday evening, thanks to Tom Cairney's goal.

Jokanovic's side face another difficult test on Saturday when they face Newcastle, who have opened up a three-point gap at the top of the Championship table, after an impressive week.

Rafa Benitez's side picked up victories against promotion rivals Brighton and Hove Albion and Huddersfield Town, before securing a point against Reading on Tuesday evening.

Despite the Magpies' impressive form, Jokanovic was in a confident mood ahead of the clash, he told the Shields Gazette: "We are confident. We are going to try and find our style – we are going to try and dominate Newcastle.

"They are a physical, very strong team. They are going to look and put the ball behind us and around the space behind our centre-backs.

"We are going to try and move the ball and create our chances.

"I don't expect so many surprises in this game."

While Newcastle are fighting for the Championship title, Fulham sit seventh and are looking to break into the top-six between now and May.

Jokanovic's side are currently five-points behind sixth-placed Sheffield Wednesday, but have a game in hand over their Yorkshire rivals.

Fulham beat Newcastle in the reverse fixture, when Matt Smith's header was enough to record a 1-0 victory on the opening day of the Championship season.


http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/slavisa-jokanovic-makes-surprise-statement-ahead-of-fulhams-trip-to-newcastle-united/ (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/slavisa-jokanovic-makes-surprise-statement-ahead-of-fulhams-trip-to-newcastle-united/)

 
Anita the winger, Janmaat and no Shelvey: How Newcastle have transformed since opening-day defeat
Fulham defeated Newcastle United 1-0 at Craven Cottage in August - but can you name the entire Magpies XI from that game?

Vurnon Anita's versatility means he can perform a number of roles for Newcastle United, but he has never been a right-winger.

Well, actually, that's not entirely true.

For a short, two-game spell at the beginning of the Championship campaign - as well as during a handful of pre-season friendlies - the Dutchman was deployed on the right of midfield by Rafa Benitez.

It really is hard to imagine now, given the wealth of options that Benitez has at his disposal, that the Spaniard felt forced to start the campaign with a defensive midfielder-turned-full-back on the right-hand side of midfield.

True, Benitez inherently trusts Anita and spoke at the start of the second-tier campaign about how vital a role the diminutive Dutchman could have as United sought an immediate return to the Premier League.

(http://i2.chroniclelive.co.uk/incoming/article11713020.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Anita.jpg)
Newcastle United's Vurnon Anita (left) and Fulham's Ryan Tunnicliffe battle for the ball

But Anita's selection on the right-wing highlights the curious early-season flux Newcastle found themselves in.

You need only look at the rest of the starting XI who ran out at Craven Cottage on August 5 and compare it to the current Magpies side to see how unstable things still were as Newcastle began their Championship season in earnest.

There was still close to a month remaining in the transfer window, and Benitez had yet to fully reshape his squad.

At the time, the Magpies' 1-0 opening-day defeat - which was followed by a loss at home to Huddersfield Town - led to fear spreading across Tyneside that Newcastle's campaign was in danger of simply dissolving away into mediocrity, as Aston Villa's and Norwich City's eventually would.

As United prepare to host Fulham in the reverse fixture at St James' Park, there is no longer that mood of uncertainty on Tyneside though; instead, there is an assured confidence that promotion is now within touching distance.

And that is far removed from the early-season doubts which led to a disappointing defeat in the late-summer sun at Fulham.

Just look at the players who did not feature that day - and those who did.

Christian Atsu would not arrive on loan from Chelsea until the very final throes of the summer window, meaning Benitez was short of wingers for the opening few matches - and hence why Anita began the campaign.

Intriguingly, Yoan Gouffran's renaissance had not yet started by this stage, so he was not considered as the close-to automatic choice on the left-wing as he has subsequently become.

Daryl Janmaat and Moussa Sissoko were still Magpies - and, though the latter was not considered for selection following his summer-long flirtation with a move away, the former was named in the starting XI at right-back.

Janmaat's transfer to Watford did not go through until August 24, the same day in which DeAndre Yedlin was signed.

And, interestingly, though Ciaran Clark and Mo Diame's moves to Newcastle were confirmed two days before the trip to west London, Benitez did not name either player in the matchday squad.

The Spaniard does not like to throw players into a side when they have not trained with the team and studied the specific tactics.

But they are not the only Magpies who would now be considered regular starters who were absent from the starting teamsheet at Craven Cottage.

It is easy to forget that Jonjo Shelvey - who is now the very fulcrum of this Newcastle side - was left on the bench by Benitez and not introduced until the 77-minute mark on that opening day, with the United boss seemingly still unconvinced by the midfielder's suitability for the system at that stage.

Jack Colback and Isaac Hayden started together in the midfield two instead.

Benitez would not even contemplate dropping Shelvey now given his importance, something which was highlighted during his five-game suspension over the festive period, yet just seven months ago the midfielder was not considered an automatic starter.

There was no Aleksandar Mitrovic, either, who was serving the first fixture of his four-game suspension - but, given that he has not featured in either of the two most-recent matchday squads either, that is perhaps not as surprising as some of the other absences.

Daryl Murphy too had yet to join Newcastle - he signed on August 28 - and so instead it was Adam Armstrong who was introduced for Ayoze Perez as a second-striker option alongside Dwight Gayle at Craven Cottage.

That was one of only two league appearances Armstrong would make for Newcastle this term before he was sent out on loan to Barnsley.

Summer-signing Grant Hanley also started in the heart of central-defence alongside captain Jamaal Lascelles.

But the Scotland international, despite his Championship experience, was awful at Craven Cottage - and has barely featured since, with Clark instead having become Lascelles' usual centre-back partner.

(http://i1.chroniclelive.co.uk/incoming/article11712970.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/FFC.jpg)
Matt Smith of Fulham scores against Newcastle United at Craven Cottage

In goal, too, it was Matz Sels who began the campaign, before a succession of unconvincing displays saw Karl Darlow usurp him in between the sticks.

Now Sels finds himself as third-choice goalkeeper behind both Darlow and Rob Elliot, highlighting how times have changed.

The mood surrounding the club being the most stark change of them all.

While uncertainty threatened to hamper Newcastle back in August, the March version of the Magpies have an aura about them; a calming confidence.

The table-topping Magpies have 77 points from 36 games, are on an 11-game unbeaten run, and are nine points clear of the play-off places.

True seventh-placed Fulham are in good form themselves, and United's performances at St James' Park remain a slight concern, meaning this game is far from a home banker.

But the atmosphere on Tyneside will be markedly different to that on the banks of the River Thames seven months ago.

Pertinently, so too will the Newcastle line-up.

Newcastle United team vs Fulham at Craven Cottage (August 5, 2016):

Matz Sels

Daryl Janmaat

Grant Hanley

Jamaal Lascelles

Paul Dummett

Isaac Hayden (replaced by Jonjo Shelvey after 77 minutes)

Jack Colback (replaced by Rolando Aarons after 61 minutes)

Vurnon Anita

Ayoze Perez (replaced by Adam Armstrong after 70 minutes)

Matt Ritchie

Dwight Gayle

Subs not used: Karl Darlow, Chancel Mbemba, Jesus Gamez, Jamie Sterry



http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/anita-winger-janmaat-no-shelvey-12715674 (http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/anita-winger-janmaat-no-shelvey-12715674)

 
Jokanovic says 'in-form' Fulham are 'confident'
by Dan on March 9, 2017


Slavisa Jokanovic says Fulham are undeterred by the prospect of facing league leaders Newcastle United this weekend – because the Whites have grown in confidence during their recent unbeaten run and are in form.

The Serbian coach's side will take significant momentum into Saturday's St. James' Park after the euphoria of Tom Cairney's last gasp equaliser against Leeds, where Jokanovic felt Fulham played most of the football. He told his pre-match press conference that his focus was on trying to beat the Magpies now:

    We played a good game on Tuesday and I thought we did enough to get three points. But this game is behind us now. All the games are tough, and this one is away against the top Championship team. But we go there in form and with confidence.

    I am not surprised Newcastle are top. They made great investments and are a big team. They deserve to be there. Rafa Benitez is a big name in our competition. He's a good coach who has won the Champions League, but my job is to beat him.

Jokanovic urged his defenders to avoid the slip-ups that have undermined their attempts to reach the Championship play-off positions. Tim Ream gifted Leeds a dream start with a horrible own goal on Tuesday night – and Fulham can't afford to be so generous against Benitez's charges:

    We need to concentrate and not make mistakes. Eleven games are in front of us and we expect to be able to fight for the topsix. My nomination for Championship manager of the month is nice for my staff but my focus is on the Newcastle game which is in front of us.

The Fulham head coach confirmed that most of his squad will be available for selection, apart from winger Floyd Ayite who will miss out on the trip to Tynside. Jokanovic did reveal that he hopes to be able to call upon Lucas Piazon, who fractured his jaw at Cardiff a couple of weeks ago, before the end of the season as his recovery has began well.

    At this moment Floyd Ayité is the only one outside the squad. We expect Lucas Piazon can be available for the last games.


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/03/jokanovic-says-in-form-fulham-are-confident/ (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/03/jokanovic-says-in-form-fulham-are-confident/)

 
Kalas urges Fulham to maintain fine form
by Dan on March 9, 2017


Tomas Kalas has urged his team-mates to continue Fulham's unbeaten run as the push for a place in the Championship's play-off positions reaches the business end of the season.

The on-loan centre back isn't too daunted by the prospect of travelling to Newcastle United at St. James' Park this weekend after Fulham started their season with an impressive win over the promotion favourites. Kalas told the club's official website that the club's players are so confident in Slavisa Jokanovic's footballing philosophy that they feel able to implement their passing approach regardless of the opposition.

    We're still on the unbeaten run, and we want to keep that going against anyone. We know that we can play against anyone, it doesn't matter if it's Newcastle away or Rotherham away. It doesn't really matter, we have to focus on ourselves and keep going game by game.

Kalas felt Fulham were the better side against one of their immediate rivals Leeds on Tuesday night, but was pretty phlegmatic about Neeksens Kebano's disallowed goal and the fact the Whites only emerged with a draw.

    We probably deserved more than that, but you don't always get the results that you deserve. We scored two and it finished 1-1. As a central defender, I could see that Neeskens' shot looked as though it bounced over the line. I couldn't see if it was completely behind the line, but afterwards I saw that it went in and then out again. But what can we do if the linesman couldn't see it properly?

    It was obviously satisfying at the end with that goal and the character we showed. But from another side it's disappointing because when you see that we are battering a team that's chasing promotion and is one of the better sides, then it's frustrating when we don't win.

The Czech defender, on loan from Chelsea, is also hoping that goalscorer Tom Cairney can replicate his excellent form in the closing weeks of the campaign.

    He did the same thing in Leeds, so he probably prefers playing against them! The goal came from a similar position to the one he got up there. So it seems that's his favourite shot now, and I hope he's going to do it more often.


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/03/kalas-urges-fulham-to-maintain-fine-form/ (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/03/kalas-urges-fulham-to-maintain-fine-form/)

 
'Rafa Benitez is a big name, but it's my job to beat him' - Fulham boss on Newcastle trip
Newcastle United host Fulham at St James' Park on Saturday, with the seventh-placed Cottagers looking to extend their unbeaten run to seven games

Rafa Benitez may be the "big-name" manager in the Championship, but Slavisa Jokanovic insists it is his "job to beat" the Spaniard's Newcastle United side at St James' Park this weekend.

Jokanovic's Fulham visit Tyneside on Saturday looking to complete a league double over the Magpies, having defeated United 1-0 at Craven Cottage on the opening day of the season.

Both sides are in good form - Newcastle are unbeaten in 11 matches, while Fulham have not lost in six league games - and the seventh-placed Cottagers are hoping to close the gap to the play-off places by defeating league-leaders United on their own patch.

"Rafa Benitez is a big name in our competition," Jokanovic said during his pre-match Press conference.

"He's a good coach who has won the Champions League, but my job is to beat him.

"I am not surprised Newcastle are top.

"They made great investments and are a big team.

"They deserve to be there."

Fulham trail sixth-placed Sheffield Wednesday by five points, though they have a game in hand on the South Yorkshire club.

The Cottagers drew 1-1 against Leeds United on Tuesday and Jokanovic believes his players will head to the North East full of self-belief.

"We played a good game on Tuesday and I thought we did enough to get three points, but this game is behind us now," Jokanovic added.

"All the games are tough, and this one is away against the top Championship team.

"But we go there in form and with confidence."


http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rafa-benitez-big-name-its-12717359 (http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/rafa-benitez-big-name-its-12717359)

 
Kebano making waves at the Cottage
by Dan on March 9, 2017


Neeksens Kebano says he has adapted to the competitiveness and physicality of the Championship and is ready to help fire Fulham into the play-off picture.

The Congolese winger had a tough start to life at Craven Cottage but has exploded onto the scene after a successful African Cup of Nations competition with his country – seizing his chance to impress head coach Slavisa Jokanovic with a flurry of goals. Kebano told GetWestLondon that he is concentrating on making the most of his opportunity:

    I took the time to adapt because I moved from another country, so now I know much more about my team mates and it's a bit easier to play with them so I was waiting for my chance. Now I have it I try to do my best to bring what I can bring to the squad.

    It is always a pleasure to hear praise from the opposition and journalists, but I'm just focused on my goal with the team, we have the same goal and that is the most important thing for me and the team.

Like skipper Tom Cairney, Kebano has recognised that March is a pivotal month in Fulham's quest to close the gap on the division's top six. The former Genk winger says the opportunity to take points off some of their closest rivals offers Fulham a real opportunity to stake a claim for the play-offs:

    This month is very important because we have a game each three days so it is the best way to win the maximum points. After this month we will know if we are still in the race for the play offs.

Kebano also praised the impact of Fulham's supporters for steadying the side's nerves during a tense encounter against Leeds on Tuesday night.

    The fans are very important, like against Leeds where we missed some energy they are always there to push us so with their support we know we can be very strong.


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/03/kebano-making-waves-at-the-cottage/ (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/03/kebano-making-waves-at-the-cottage/)

 
DeAndre Yedlin to miss Newcastle's clash with Fulham

Rafael Benitez will be without defender DeAndre Yedlin for Saturday's Sky Bet Championship clash with Fulham.

The full-back missed the goalless draw at Reading in midweek with a thigh problem and is expected to be out for up to two weeks. However, Benitez at least has options with Jesus Gamez starting at right-back at the Madejski Stadium and Vurnon Anita having played there in the 3-1 victory at Huddersfield last Saturday evening. Leading scorer Dwight Gayle will hope for a return to the starting line-up after two appearances as a substitute following his return from a hamstring problem, but midfielders Isaac Hayden (ankle) and Rolando Aarons (knee) are still out. Fulham will again be without winger Floyd Ayite. The Togo international has not featured since coming off during the second half of the 2-2 draw at Cardiff with what appeared to be a hamstring problem. On-loan Chelsea midfielder Lucas Piazon continues his recovery from the broken jaw suffered in the same match. Greek defensive midfielder Thanos Petsos has been out with a calf problem.


Read more at: https://www.clubcall.com/fulham/deandre-yedlin-to-miss-newcastles-clash-with-fulham-1844441.html (https://www.clubcall.com/fulham/deandre-yedlin-to-miss-newcastles-clash-with-fulham-1844441.html)

 
PL Cup Draw: Last 16

The draw for the last 16 of the Premier League Cup takes place this Friday at Midday.

Fulham's U23s navigated through the group stage without trouble, topping the group and winning five out of their six matches.

The Whites finished with 15 points and will be joined by either Middlesbrough or Charlton from their group, with the Addicks still to play Wimbledon this Sunday. Boro are on nine points, Charlton on seven.

The last 16 tie will be played between the 17th-20th March. It is a single tie that if drawn will go to extra time followed by penalties.

The teams that have qualified for this round and Fulham can draw are:

Newcastle United

Southampton/Swansea City/Bristol City

Sunderland

Blackburn Rovers

Hull City

Colchester United

Portsmouth

Norwich City

Brighton and Hove Albion

West Ham United

Middlesbrough/Charlton Athletic

Liverpool

Huddersfield Town

Reading

Sheffield United.

You can follow the live Twitter text detailing the draw on the @PLYouth handle from midday. #PLCup


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/09/pl-cup-draw (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/09/pl-cup-draw)

 
Jokanović's Newcastle Preview

Slaviša Jokanović says Newcastle United deserve to be at the top of the Sky Bet Championship, but insists that won't put Fulham off aiming for all three points on Saturday.

"I am not surprised [that they're top]," he said in his pre-match press conference. "They made great investments, they are a big club and they deserve to be where they are right now.


"All of our games are tough games, and this one is away against the top Championship team. But we are in a good moment of form and we have got confidence to try and deliver our best performance and fight for the points.

"I know [Rafa Benitez], I have had the opportunity to speak with him and I know him from when we played the first game at the beginning of the Championship.

"He is a big name in our competition, he is a quality coach, he is successful, he is a winner of the Champions League and many trophies. He is a very good manager but my job is to try and find a way to beat him."

The Whites will be looking to complete the double over the title favourites, following the 1-0 win at Craven Cottage some seven months ago.

"It was the beginning of the Championship, we won three points," Jokanović stated. "After that game we played many games, and in that moment of the competition no-one knew who was who, and we've gone and surprised them a little bit.

"It was a good night for ourselves but this was many months ago and now it's a different situation, a different moment in the competition and now we must be ready for what is here in front of us."

Fulham's draw with fellow Play-Off hopefuls Leeds United on Tuesday means the gap to the top-six remains at five points.

But Jokanović remains optimistic that his side's good form, aided by a fixture in hand, can see them gatecrash the party.


"We are close," he admitted. "In this period of the competition we must be in the top level of concentration and try not to make mistakes, and find ways to win the points.

"There are still 11 games in front of us and there is this gap where we have one game less than the top teams in front of us.

"We expect we can be competitive. I expect we are going to cut this gap as soon as possible and be in the position of fighting to be in the top-six."

On Thursday morning it was announced that Jokanović was in the running for February's Manager of the Month award, but he is more concerned with the three points available on Tyneside than personal recognition.

"It is nice for my staff and for myself but I have not come here to be fighting for some individual awards," he explained. "I am concentrating fully, especially for the Newcastle game, on what is immediately in front of us, and that's it."

The Head Coach revealed that Floyd Ayité remains absent for the trip to St James' Park, while there is still hope that Lucas Piazon could return before the end of the season, whenever that may be for Fulham.

"At this moment it is only Floyd Ayité who is outside of the squad," he revealed. "Apart from this, every other player is available for Saturday's game.

"Lucas Piazon was really important and part of this business, part of this football club, so he is a big loss for us.

"We expect he can be available for some of the last games of this Championship, or if we push ourselves into the top-six he can be ready for the Play-Offs."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/09/jokanovics-newcastle-preview (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/march/09/jokanovics-newcastle-preview)

 
Fulham star Lucas Piazon set to return to squad ahead of schedule after jaw injury
The Brazilian fractured his jaw against Cardiff but has been given some good news after seeing a specialist on Thursday

Lucas Piazon is set to return to the Fulham squad ahead of schedule after the Chelsea loanee saw a specialist regarding his jaw injury today.

The Brazilian has been out injured since the start of the month when he fractured his jaw as a result of a challenge on Cardiff City's Kadeem Harris during the 2-2 draw in South Wales.

Initially, Piazon was meant to be out for six weeks but after seeing a specialist, he will return to fitness training on Monday before being able to return to full training with the squad in two-three weeks.

Speaking about Piazon, his manager, Slavisa Jokanovic today said: "He is a big loss for us, Piazon was very important but it is part of football and we expect he can be available for some of the final games in the Championship, or if we push ourselves into the top six he will be ready for the play-offs."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-star-lucas-piazon-set-12718926 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-star-lucas-piazon-set-12718926)

 
Danny Murphy delivers verdict on Fulham's play-off chances

The former Fulham midfielder hopes his old side can break into the Championship's top six.


Former Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy has delivered his verdict on his old side's play-off chances.

The Cottagers are the best-positioned of the Championship's chasing pack, sitting five points behind sixth-placed Sheffield Wednesday and four above eighth-placed Norwich City, with a game in hand.

Slavisa Jokanovic's men are also one of the division's form sides, having won four of their last six league matches.

And when asked if the west London side, with whom Murphy reached the 2010 Uefa Cup final, will break into the top six this season, the 39-year-old told Talksport: "I've got a feeling they might, yeah. They play really good football and they play quite high-risk. What I mean by that is they have a good go - throw men forward, play good football and try and win games, which the fans are really enjoying.

"There's a better vibe down there now that's for sure. I'm hearing some really positive stuff. Some good young players.

However, it's not only Murphy whose attention Fulham's brand of football has captured this season, with the former England man adding: "Actually the biggest compliment I can give them is a couple of friends of mine who've played against them for other Championship sides have said: '(exhales) they're a good side.' So I really hope so and I think they might just do it."

Fulham's fate will likely be decided by how well they fare against top-six sides Newcastle United, Huddersfield Town and Sheffield Wednesday, who welcome the Cottagers to Hillsborough on the season's final day.


Play-off outsiders Derby County, Norwich City and Aston Villa are also yet to face Fulham for a second time this campaign.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/09/danny-murphy-delivers-verdict-on-fulhams-play-off-chances/ (http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/03/09/danny-murphy-delivers-verdict-on-fulhams-play-off-chances/)

 
Newcastle United news RECAP: Rafa Benitez up for manager of the month as we look ahead to Fulham clash
Live updates on all the latest NUFC news, views and gossip as the Magpies finish a testing week unbeaten

Rafa Benitez was happy with a seven point haul from United's toughest week of the season - but as Brighton and Huddersfield both picked up points, Newcastle's lead at the top was sliced down to three points.

That still represents a fine return and United have managed to keep their main rivals at arm's length despite some tough games.

Now United have a home game against Fulham - one of the teams who have rolled them over this season. Benitez says he wants to see the stadium full and fully supportive of Newcastle as they look to capitalise on their good week.

Benitez is now up for February's manager of the month.


http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-live-news-updates-12714414 (http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-live-news-updates-12714414)

 
Slavisa Jokanovic believes Fulham's concentration levels must be at the top in order to reach play-offs
Jokanovic's side are five points off the play-off places with a game in hand and the manager believes his side can get into a position where they are fighting for the top six

Fulham's concentration levels must be at their peak in order for them to challenge for the play-off places, according to Slavisa Jokanovic.

The side are currently five points off Sheffield Wednesday who occupy the last play-off spot, but the Cottagers have a game in hand on their rivals which will come when they play Blackburn next Tuesday at Craven Cottage.

Jokanovic, however, has challenged his players to keep their concentration levels as the highest possible number as they look to hunt down the teams who currently occupy the top six.

He said: "We are close and we are in this period of the competition where our concentration must be at the top level and we have to try not make mistakes and find a way to win the points.

"We still have eleven games and there's a gap, but we have a game more than the team in front of us and we expect that we can be competitive and we can get into a position where we can fight for the top six.

"It's nice for my staff and for myself but I have not come here for individual awards, I am fully concentrated on the Newcastle game which is in front of us."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/slavisa-jokanovic-believes-fulhams-concentration-12718422 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/slavisa-jokanovic-believes-fulhams-concentration-12718422)

 
Attacking Duo To Return: Strongest Newcastle United Line-Up To Face Fulham

Newcastle United will go head to head against seventh-placed Fulham at St. James' Park on Sunday in the EFL Championship.

The Magpies are on a fine run of form, having taken an impressive seven points in their last three games and all of it has come against the top five sides. As a result, they have strengthened their hold at the summit of the Championship. Newcastle will come into the game with having played out a 0-0 away draw against Reading and will be eager to increase their distance from the chasing pack, with a win against Fulham. The Cottagers came up trumps the last time the two teams faced each other and Rafael Benitez will be hoping to avoid a similar fate.

Benitez will be without Isaac Hayden once again, along with the long-term absentee Rolando Aarons. Right-back De Andre Yedlin is the latest addition to the injury list for Newcastle, with the former Tottenham man expected to be out for at least two weeks.

Predicted Newcastle United Line-Up for Fulham Encounter
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Karl Darlow (GK)

The 26-year old Englishman kept his eleventh clean sheet of the season against Reading on Tuesday night. Will be hoping to add to his tally on Saturday.

Vurnon Anita (RB)

Regular right-back De Andre Yedlin has been ruled out due to injury. As a result, the rarely used Jesus Gamez featured against Reading. However, Benitez might bring in Anita for the weekend encounter.
Jamaal Lascelles (CB)

The captain had a solid outing against the Royals in the weekend. Expect more of the same against Fulham on Saturday.
Ciaran Clark (CB)

Partnering Lascelles in the heart of the defence will be Ciaran Clark. The Irishman has become a crucial part of the Newcastle squad this season and will look to put in another strong performance.
Paul Dummett (LB)

The undisputed choice at left-back position, Dummett has just missed a single Championship game so far this season. Expect him to make his 35th appearance on Saturday.
Jonjo Shelvey (CM)

A sure starter in one of the two midfield pivots, Shelvey's presence on the field is extremely vital for Newcastle.
Jack Colback (CM)

And alongside the Englishman, it will be Jack Colback. With Isaac Hayden still unavailable, the former Sunderland man will retain his place in the line-up.
Matt Ritchie (RW)

The former Bournemouth winger has been one of the best players of Newcastle this season. He will start on the right-wing against the cottagers.
Ayoze Perez (CAM)

The Spaniard started the game against Reading on Tuesday. And we expect him to hold on to his place for the Saturday's encounter ahead of Mohamed Diame.
Christian Atsu (LW)

On the left-flank, Christian Atsu might come in for Yoan Gouffran. The Chelsea loanee has been preferred in recent weeks and should feature from the get-go against Fulham.
Dwight Gayle (ST)

The 21-goal striker is fit again and having made two substitute appearances in the last two games, he might replace Daryl Murphy in the lineup.


http://soccersouls.com/2017/03/10/attacking-duo-to-return-strongest-newcastle-united-line-up-to-face-fulham/ (http://soccersouls.com/2017/03/10/attacking-duo-to-return-strongest-newcastle-united-line-up-to-face-fulham/)

 
Why didn't it work out? These 2 players have really thrived since leaving Fulham

Fulham are definitely surpassing all expectations of their season so far with the club challenging for a play-off finish, although they do have to make up a six point difference between themselves and Sheffield Wednesday at the very least.

The Cottagers have completed numerous transfer negotiations over the last 12 months to enhance their performances on the pitch, both incomings and outgoings, and not many fans can complain of the result as the former Europa League finalists strive for a return to Premier League.

If they fail to finish inside the top six then they certainly can't blame the manager or certain individuals in the first-team, after all it is some of the recent signings that have taken Fulham from Championship uncertainty to almost challenging their promotion rivals.

Although there are some mistakes that any club will make and that can be who they decide to let go.

Here are TWO players who have thrived after leaving Fulham....

Konstantinos Mitroglou
It might feel a while since Konstantinos Mitroglou last made a competitive appearance for the west London outfit, in fact his final appearance for Fulham came three years ago, but the Greece international only departed Craven Cottage last summer.

The 28-year-old initially joined the then Premier League side for a fee of £12 million but played in less than ten matches for the club before leaving on loan, and eventually permanently in August.
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Mitroglou has shone for Benfica in the Portuguese top division, becoming their first choice striker and his 13 league goals has helped guide his team to a current first position.

It is fair to say that the forward has thrived in the Mediterranean and probably will never leave, in the near future anyway.

Adam Taggart
The Australian attacker enjoyed two years at Fulham before calling it quits, and switching England for down under when he put pen-to-paper on a deal at Perth Glory in Australia.

Adam Taggart had previously began his career at his current employee before signing on at Newcastle Jets, and eventually moving to Craven Cottage.

Injuries didn't help the 23 year-old's time in this country but was still not given a run of games which resulted in Taggart considering his future, subsequently moving back to his former club.

He has now bagged 11 goals in 17 appearances for Perth and doesn't look like he'll be returning to Europe anytime soon.

That form has ensured his current time on the other side of the world has been thriving.


http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/why-didnt-it-work-out-these-2-players-have-really-thrived-since-leaving-fulham/ (http://footballleagueworld.co.uk/why-didnt-it-work-out-these-2-players-have-really-thrived-since-leaving-fulham/)

 
Are Fulham Newcastle United's bogey side? The stats the Magpies are looking to change
Newcastle have not enjoyed the best of times against Fulham down the years, but can they change all that on Saturday?

As Newcastle aim to put more distance between themselves and their promotion rivals, they must learn how to make St James' Park a fortress between now of the end of the season.

The Magpies' strong away form is the reason they find themselves three points clear at the top but with six of their remaining ten fixtures being played on Tyneside, the need to put things right at home has never been greater for Rafa Benitez's men.

However, if history is anything to go by, Fulham will not be an easy task for Newcastle this weekend.

The Cottagers are in a good vein of form at present, having lost only one of their last eight league fixtures. They will also be buoyed by the result in the reverse fixture, as Matt Smith's header gave Fulham all three points when the sides met on the opening day of the season.

But looking back even further, Fulham could be classed as one of Newcastle's bogey teams.

(http://i4.chroniclelive.co.uk/incoming/article11713397.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/JS96391311.jpg)
A Matt Smith header brought Newcastle United a reality check on the opening day of their Championship campaign at Craven Cottage

In the last 11 meetings between the pair, Fulham have ran out winners on seven occasions, drawing one. They have also won four of their last six clashes against Newcastle.

In their last three victories over the Magpies, the South West London outfit have won by a single goal. However, Fulham fans will have fond memories of their 5-2 drubbing of Newcastle back in 2012.

Despite this, there is a statistic that Newcastle fans can take comfort in. 11 of the last 14 meetings between these two clubs has seen the home side emerge victorious.

To add to this, Newcastle have not lost at home to Fulham since 2009, when the away side on that day put another nail in the coffin of Alan Shearer's relegation-threatened side.

The sides have not met at St. James' Park since August 2013, where Hatem Ben Arfa scored the only goal in a 1-0 Newcastle win, taking his goal tally to three in as many games against Fulham.

Another reason for fans to be hopeful ahead of Saturday's clash also lies with Benitez. Despite the Spaniard losing to Fulham in his first Championship match, he has a good record against the club from his Premier League days.

Benitez has sent his side out to play the Lilywhites on 15 occasions, with 8 of those resulting in a win for his team.

During his time with brief stint with Chelsea, Benitez recorded one win and one draw against Fulham. While at Liverpool, he boasted a record of seven wins from 12 matches.

And Benitez may be familiar with Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic, who played for Tenerife from 1995 to 1999, leaving just before the ex-Real Madrid man took over at the club in 2000.


http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-newcastle-uniteds-bogey-side-12717498 (http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-newcastle-uniteds-bogey-side-12717498)

 
'We owe Fulham one': Captain Jamaal Lascelles calls on Newcastle to 'sort out' home form
Newcastle United host seventh-placed Fulham on Saturday, with the Magpies looking to replicate their away form on Tyneside

Jamaal Lascelles admits Newcastle United must "sort out" their home form in order to secure promotion - and insists the Magpies "owe Fulham one".

The Cottagers defeated Newcastle 1-0 at Craven Cottage on the opening day of the season as the Magpies made a slow start to the campaign and they visit Tyneside for the return fixture on Saturday.

Since that early-season stutter, however, Rafa Benitez's side have risen to the top of the table, with their promotion bid built largely upon their excellent away form.

Yet the Magpies' results at St James' Park have been patchy, with the likes of Wolverhampton Wanderers, Blackburn Rovers and, most recently, Bristol City having left St James' Park with at least a point.

And United captain Lascelles is desperate to see Newcastle start replicating their away form on Tyneside.

Newcastle are unbeaten in 11 games, but they face a seventh-placed Fulham side who have not lost in six and have a play-off spot within their sights.

"Of course," Lascelles replied when asked if he was looking forward to a home match following United's three successive away trips.

"We need to put things right back at St James' Park because in our last home game we didn't start too well.

"So against Fulham I want us to start well and get on the front foot early on.

"We're very positive we can extend our unbeaten run.

"It's about time we sorted out our home form and start really kicking on at St James' Park.

"We owe Fulham one as well - every game is massive for us, and all we're looking for is the three points.

"Hopefully that's what we can deliver."

A return of seven points from away trips to Brighton and Hove Albion, Huddersfield Town and Reading represented an excellent week's work for Newcastle.

And Lascelles believes those three results could play a potentially decisive role in the promotion race.

The 23-year-old centre-back added: "If somebody had said to us before these three away games, 'Would you take seven points?', we'd have grabbed their hands off.

"All three teams are tough sides, and they're all looking for promotion - the same as us.

"It's been a big week because it's not just been a case of getting three points - it's been a case of taking three points off other sides as well and creating that gap.

"We want that gap, we want to keep it and increase it.

"Every game's a cup final and we're not going to take our foot off the gas at all.

"We've put in a great shift this past week - you can tell how tired the boys are.

"The midfield has been excellent this week, looking after the back four, but individually and collectively throughout the whole team I'm really pleased with how everyone has played.

"And now we prepare for Fulham."


http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/we-owe-fulham-one-captain-12719109 (http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/we-owe-fulham-one-captain-12719109)

 
Fulham boss misses out on Manager of the Month award - but is it a blessing in disguise?
Slavisa Jokanovic lost out to Huddersfield Town gaffer David Wagner, but has he also missed out on the curse that goes hand-in-hand with the award?

Slavisa Jokanovic has missed out on February's manager of the month award after the judging panel awarded Huddersfield Town boss David Wagner the accolade, but is it a blessing in disguise?

We all know about the so-called curse associated with this award, the one where the side whose manager wins it struggles the following month and plummets down the league quicker than a rock in water.

Wagner was awarded the gong for his Huddersfield side picking up 16 points from five games, including three home wins against promotion rivals Brighton, Reading and Leeds and the curse could already be having an affect on his side after they were beaten comfortably by Newcastle at start of March.

Tom Cairney has already said what a pivotal month March is going to be for Fulham - they play their game in hand next Tuesday against Blackburn in what is essentially a must-win game for the Cottagers, while a trip to Newcastle tomorrow and a home tie against Wolves complete the month.

It would've been nice for Jokanovic to have won the award and to be rewarded for what was a stunning February, where Fulham picked up 13 points from six games to climb to seventh, but maybe from a superstitious point of view it's better that he didn't win so the curse couldn't have an impact on his side's run to the play-off?



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-boss-misses-out-manager-12714754 (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-boss-misses-out-manager-12714754)

 
Newcastle's Jamaal Lascelles: It's about time we sort out our home form – starting against Fulham

Jamaal Lascelles says Newcastle United must mind the gap as they look to secure promotion to the Premier League.

The club leads the Championship by three points ahead of tomorrow's home game against Fulham.

Crucially, Newcastle are nine points ahead of third-placed Huddersfield Town, beaten 3-1 at the John Smith's Stadium by Rafa Benitez's side last weekend. That victory followed a 2-1 success over second-placed Brighton and Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium. United end a tough three-game run of away games with a goalless draw against fifth-placed Reading on Tuesday night. Captain Lascelles said: "It's been a big week, because it's not just been a case of getting three points. "It's been a case of taking three points off other sides as well and creating that gap. "We want that gap. We want to keep it and increase it. Every game's a cup final, and we're not going to take our foot off the gas at all.

"If somebody had said to us before these three away games 'would you take seven points?', we'd have grabbed their hands off. All three teams are tough sides, and they're all looking for promotion – the same as us." Newcastle had the better of the first half at the Madejski Stadium, but they tired after the break and Reading struck the crossbar in injury time. "I'm pretty happy," said Lascelles. "We had a lot of chances, but at the other end we defended very well, so as a defender I'm pleased with how the team conducted themselves. We've put in a great shift – you can tell how tired the boys are. "The midfield has been excellent this week, looking after the back four, but individually and collectively throughout the whole team I'm really pleased with how everyone has played.

"We had to make sure we left with minimum a point. "Reading are a good side, and they move the ball really well side to side, but I didn't feel like they could hurt us going forwards. "It's the Championship, though, so anything can happen, but we did all we could to counter them and I thought we were unlucky not to get a goal. But we go again on Saturday." United equalled a club record of 13 away wins with their victory over Huddersfield. Asked about the transformation away from home, Lascelles said: "Everyone knows their role and responsibility. "We always say we need to start the game brightly, let the other team know we're not here to mess about, and then we outwork the other teams.

"We had to make sure we left with minimum a point. "Reading are a good side, and they move the ball really well side to side, but I didn't feel like they could hurt us going forwards. "It's the Championship, though, so anything can happen, but we did all we could to counter them and I thought we were unlucky not to get a goal. But we go again on Saturday." United equalled a club record of 13 away wins with their victory over Huddersfield. Asked about the transformation away from home, Lascelles said: "Everyone knows their role and responsibility. "We always say we need to start the game brightly, let the other team know we're not here to mess about, and then we outwork the other teams. "It's about putting it in the back of the net, and teams find it difficult to do that against us." United, held to a 2-2 draw at home by struggling Bristol City, have fared better away from home than at St James's Park this season. "We need to put things right back at St James's Park, because in our last home game we didn't start too well," said Lascelles. "So against Fulham I want us to start well and get on the front foot early on." Newcastle, beaten by Fulham on the opening weekend of the season, are unbeaten in 11 league games. Lascelles added: "We're very positive we can extend our unbeaten run. "It's about time we sorted out our home form and really kick on at St James's Park. "We owe Fulham one as well. "Every game is massive for us, and all we're looking for is the three points. Hopefully, that's what we can deliver."



Read more at: http://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/newcastle-s-jamaal-lascelles-it-s-about-time-we-sort-out-our-home-form-starting-against-fulham-1-8430077 (http://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/newcastle-s-jamaal-lascelles-it-s-about-time-we-sort-out-our-home-form-starting-against-fulham-1-8430077)

 
David Prutton predicts Newcastle v Fulham, identifies dangerman

David Prutton has predicted Newcastle to draw against Fulham at the weekend and has picked out Tom Cairney as the dangerman.

Rafael Benitez's side host Fulham in the Championship on Saturday and will be looking to increase their lead at the top of the table.

Newcastle are the current leaders of the Championship and are three points ahead of Brighton, but more importantly are nine points above third-placed Huddersfield in the race for automatic promotion.

Meanwhile, Fulham are seventh-placed and are trying to force their way into the play-offs.

Sky Sports pundit Prutton has tipped a 2-2 draw in Saturday's meeting and feels Fulham midfielder Cairney has real quality.

"This should be a good game with the way that Fulham approach it," Prutton told Sky Sports. "They have a lot of energy and pace in the wide areas, and in Tom Cairney have someone who showed his quality with the late goal against Leeds in midweek."

Newcastle will be wary of central midfielder Cairney, who has been a star player for Fulham this season.

The 26-year-old has made 38 appearances this season across all competitions, scoring eight goals and supplying 11 assists.

He managed to earn the Cottagers a 1-1 draw against Leeds in the last game, with a 95th minute long-range effort.

However, Newcastle will be confident of stopping the talisman and have the best defensive record in the Championship, conceding just 29 league goals.

They will be looking for revenge after suffering a 1-0 defeat away to Fulham on the opening day of the season.



http://www.footballinsider247.com/david-prutton-predicts-newcastle-v-fulham-identifies-dangerman/ (http://www.footballinsider247.com/david-prutton-predicts-newcastle-v-fulham-identifies-dangerman/)

 
Newcastle United: Three keys to defeat Fulham

Newcastle United returns home to take on Fulham tomorrow.

After three, big away matches in a row, Newcastle United will be back at St. James' Park to face Fulham tomorrow. Fulham, currently seventh on the table, is coming off a 1-1 draw earlier this week with Leeds United. Newcastle also split points on Tuesday, finishing level 0-0 with Reading.

The Magpies sit three points clear of second place Brighton, and nine points ahead of third place Huddersfield Town. Here is how Newcastle can top Fulham tomorrow to move closer to promotion:

1. Showcase Shelvey

Jonjo Shelvey is arguably the best player in the entire Sky Bet Championship. But, February was a an up and down month for the English midfielder. He wasn't overly involved in a couple matches, and needs to be a central part of the attack to make his biggest impact.

Against Reading, Shelvey came out charged up. He had two of the better strikes for Newcastle, and did well moving the ball around. They need to get him the ball early, and often, to maximize the danger he has in the attack. If they can get a free kick in a dangerous area, that would be nice too. Fulham doesn't allow many goals on the road, 17 to be exact, tied for the second lowest in the Championship. Newcastle will need a top notch Shelvey to score, and getting him involved early is key.

2. Be where you're supposed to be defensively

DeAndre Yedlin is out for the next few weeks. He's been one of the best defenders in the Championship this season, and not having him available is a big blow. His main attribute is speed, and that allows him to make up for poor positioning sometimes on the back line. With Yedlin injured, Newcastle United cannot rely on his pace to bail them out.

It will most likely be Vurnon Anita or Jesus Gamez in his place, barring an outside the box move by Rafa, which can never be ruled out. Whichever player it is, they won't be as quick as Yedlin. That means Newcastle's defensive communication and movement will need to be top class. Jamaal Lascelles has not been great lately, and he will need to lead vocally, and by example, tomorrow.

3. Gayle's got to get a goal

As Newcastle United surged to the top of the table this season, a big piece of the puzzle was Dwight Gayle scoring goals seemingly every match. He scored in such a multitude of ways, and was such a headache for opposing defenses. His hamstring has failed him most of 2017, but he may be in line for a longer shift tomorrow against Fulham.

He scored a goal against Huddersfield Town, a howler by the keeper that he nodded forward and babysat as it rolled towards the goal. He will look to get move active offensively, and show why he led the Championship in scoring much of the season. One of Newcastle United's biggest issues is the finishing of the forwards who filled in for Gayle. Now that he's back, he should help alleviate that problem.


http://newcastletoons.com/2017/03/10/newcastle-united-three-keys-defeat-fulham/3/ (http://newcastletoons.com/2017/03/10/newcastle-united-three-keys-defeat-fulham/3/)