Friends of Fulham

 
Pellegrino: FA Cup can help us

Mauricio Pellegrino says he intends to play his strongest side at Fulham, as he looks to use the FA Cup to help spark a turnaround in his team's league form.

After the disappointment of Tuesday night's 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace, attention now switches to a different competition, as Saints make the trip to Craven Cottage for the third-round tie on Saturday.

Pellegrino believes the cup can give his side a platform from which to pull themselves out of trouble when they return to Premier League action.

"For sure. We want to use this game as a reference to move on a step forward, and I will try to put out my best eleven to try to win the game," he said.

"We have to look forward. We have to use the past to learn and improve, but we know Fulham will be a tough game. They are a good team, with a good style of playing.

"They have quick players and they take a lot of risks – and on their pitch it will be really difficult. We have to be really respectful.

"We have got the experience of Wolves at home [in the Carabao Cup] and every single detail is massive. We have to show for ourselves that we want to win this game."



https://southamptonfc.com/news/2018-01-05/mauricio-pellegrino-pre-fulham-southampton-emirates-fa-cup-1718

 
PSG Reportedly Join Race for £30M Fulham Star Ryan Sessegnon


Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly joined a host of Europe's top clubs in pursuing Fulham left-back Ryan Sessegnon, with the French giants "desperate" to sign the 17-year-old.

According to John Cross in the Mirror, PSG have been keeping tabs on Sessegnon during the 2017-18 season and are keen to sign the £30 million-rated teenager ahead of fellow suitors Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Manchester City.

Cross added the Paris outfit could launch a bid for Sessegnon during the January transfer window, although Fulham are reportedly "determined" to keep him until the end of the season at least.

Sessegnon does not turn 18 until May, yet he has already established himself as one of English football's hottest prospects and one of the best players in the Championship.

He has started all 26 of Fulham's league games in 2017-18 and netted seven goals and provided four assists, per WhoScored.com:

Of those 26 fixtures, he has played as a left-back or left wing-back in 19 of them and as a winger in the other seven.

As Cross noted, there is an expectation that Sessegnon could, like Gareth Bale, eventually flourish as an attacking player despite having established himself in a defensive role on the left flank.

The prestige of the clubs being linked with Sessegnon is indicative of just how highly rated he is after barely a season-and-a-half in the Fulham first team.

He boasts immense attacking potential while also displaying defensive qualities and a maturity that belies his youth.

PSG have the financial clout to tempt Fulham into selling their prized asset, but then so do Real, Spurs and both Manchester clubs.

In a boost for the Cottagers as they look to earn as much money as possible from their player, it could come down to a bidding war for Sessegnon between a number of Europe's biggest clubs.

However, if PSG are desperate to beat the competition, they could move now with a big-money bid that Fulham would likely find hard to refuse. 



http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2752549-psg-reportedly-join-race-for-30m-fulham-star-ryan-sessegnon

 
Opposition View: Fulham

Fulham head coach Slavisa Jokanovic is looking forward to an entertaining affair at Craven Cottage for the visit of Southampton in the FA Cup Third Round on Saturday.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, the Serbian was quick to praise the qualities of his upcoming Premier League opposition but remains confident that his team can win for a fifth consecutive time on home turf.

"Southampton have enough quality to do damage. We must be careful and motivated. We're in great form ourselves and expect we can our fifth home game in a row.

"(Mauricio) Pellegrino is a great manager, working at a great club. They'll be looking for a reaction after ten games without a win.

"We must respect this competition. We will try to do everything to win this game. The FA Cup is famous around the world; our intention is to be competitive because it is important for the supporters."



https://southamptonfc.com/news/2018-01-05/opposition-view-jokanovic-fulham-southampton-emirates-fa-cup-third-round

 
Slavisa Jokanovic "really disappointed" with lack of activity

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has suggested that the club's board should consider sacking him if they do not want to consider his transfer advice.

The 49-year-old has discussed his frustrations of being overlooked when it comes to transfer matters in the past, reportedly issuing the Cottagers an ultimatum during the summer.

Jokanovic, linked with the Swansea City job last month, remains unhappy that his opinion is not being taken into consideration and concedes that the fallout may end with him out of work.

"This January I am really disappointed with the information around us," he told reporters. "We don't have any clear targets and, for the direction of the club, I have some information that we are strong enough to fight for the important targets.

"I don't believe this. I am really disappointed with our situation and I expect the club will change their opinion. I don't know if we don't have the money or don't want to spend the money, but we are not competitive enough for the period in front of us.
"The solution? I don't know, but probably if the coach doesn't trust that we are strong enough then probably an option that the club must be thinking about is sacking the coach, and this can be a good option for the club."

Fulham brought in two new strikers during the summer - Rui Fonte and Aboubakar Kamara - but the duo have managed just seven league goals between them so far.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/jokanovic-disappointed-with-lack-of-activity_315540.html

 
Göttingen Day One Delight

Fulham started off their 2018 Sparkasse & VGH Cup with two convincing wins against local sides JFV West Göttingen and JFV Eichsfeld by putting five past each team in 8 & 9pm kick offs.

The 3000 strong arena was a sell out even on the opening Thursday evening with a buzzing atmosphere.

JFV West played well for the opening minutes, but Fulham found their indoor five-a-side feet after a few minutes. The 13 minutes long games include rolling substitutes.


Joe Felix kicked off Fulham's attacking threat, racing down the right wing as he rocketed an effort aimed just under the bar, Hendrik Sist in goal for West pushed it wide.

West in the 3rd minute raced through on goal, Francois playing as sweeper keeper had to retreat quickly to hook a ball off the line, keeping the game level.

Jayden Harris used his strength to hold off his defender in the next play on the edge of the area, he struck with his left but another block meant Fulham were getting close.

Francois drifted through midfield unchallenged, picked out the bottom right corner and slotted it expertly to break the deadlock four minutes in.

20 seconds later Reece York who had jumped on at the change of play picked up the ball right of the area and fired an effort just under the bar, Sist managed to get his hand to the shot but it still beat him to make it 2-0 to the Young Whites.

Fulham at the restart were out the blocks again, the ball was played out left and crossed in by Sonny Hilton. Harris directed the ball with a cheeky back-flick past the goalie for the third in two minutes to fully take control of the tie.

The fourth goal followed quickly after. Hilton went himself this time, hammering one in from distance with quite possibly his second touch in the match after his assist to make it 4-0.

There were rare forays from JFV West, but could not trouble Julian Schwarzer who was constantly swapping with Francois.

Francois played well out from the back, he slotted two tantalising balls to Harris cutting through the midfield, the first Harris' trickery was stopped by the keeper, but in the second he beat the keeper once more with a step over to make it 5-0.

With 12 seconds left on the clock, De Havilland wanted to get on the score sheet himself and he was unlucky not to. He fired an effort onto the left post, it rebounded onto the right post, off the line and out of goal.

The second game started with a different tone as the Young Whites needed no time to settle. 19 seconds in Jose Garrido struck with his left from 20 yards out across goal and found the top right bin.

Fulham were shooting on sight, in the next phase Felix had a crack from the right which was blocked.

Felix found his goal with his second shot in the third minute, from the edge of the area he looked for the bottom left and beat the keeper to double the Young Whites' advantage, making it 2-0.

Francois and Harris tried to link up back to front just like the last game, Harris' back heal was saved by the keeper dropping low.

Dan Martin added the third in the fifth minute from a set piece, the ball was pulled back by Djed Spence and Martin hammered it low past Pascal Bauer to make it 3-0.

Nicolas Santos-Clase unselfishly set York up for another goal with a cheeky back-heal, completely selling Bauer. York wearing the number nine smashed it bottom left to make it 4-0.

Schwarzer was finally beaten with 3 and a half minutes left on the clock, a sweeping ball found Jonas Nolte and he put it underneath the Fulham keeper for the only goal Fulham would concede on the opening day.

York attempted to repay Santos-Clase by pulling a ball back across the area, but the Spaniards' run was a fraction too early.

It didn't matter though because Felix found him with the next play from the opposite side and Santos-Clase directed the ball into the bottom left corner to make it 5-1.

De Havilland was unlucky yet again in the dying seconds, rifling a shot across goal and Bauer tipped it onto the post as the match finished 5-1 to the Young Whites on a successful opening day at the tournament in Göttingen.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/05/gottingen-day-one-delight

 
Report claims Fulham, Reading and Sunderland want Chris Martin

The Derby County striker is reportedly attracting interest from former club Fulham, along with Reading and Sunderland.

Derby County's Chris Martin is wanted by Fulham, Reading and Sunderland, the Sun reports on page 60 of its printed edition.

Martin spent most of last season on loan to Fulham, for whom he scored 11 goals in 34 games.

Derby tied the striker to a new three-and-a-half-year deal midway through that spell in January 2017, but he's only started seven times under Gary Rowett, who joined the Rams in March.

Martin currently has Matej Vydra, David Nugent and Sam Winnall for company at Pride Park, with Darren Bent stepping up his recovery from a long-term injury lay-off.

It would be little surprise, therefore, to see Scotland international depart this month, with Fulham, Reading and Sunderland said to be waiting in the wings.

Fulham are making another late dart towards the Championship play-offs, and could be Martin's preferred destination with Reading and Sunderland struggling at the bottom end of the table.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/01/05/report-claims-fulham-reading-and-sunderland-want-chris-martin/

 
On The Road: Fulham

Southampton make the trip to Craven Cottage to face Sky Bet Championship side Fulham in the Emirates FA Cup third round. Before you travel, check out our away guide for key travel information and timings.

Club Details

Address: Craven Cottage, Stevenage Road, London, SW6 6HH
Telephone: 0843 208 1234 (option 3)
Capacity: 25,700
Website: www.fulhamfc.com
Nickname: The Cottagers
Home kit colours: White and black

A total of 4,722 Southampton supporters are due to make the trip to west London for the 3pm GMT kick-off.

Visiting supporters are accommodated in the Putney End. The stadium opens 90 minutes before kick-off and fans are advised to leave plenty of time to arrive as it will inevitably be busy around the venue.

Getting there by car

Fans are advised there are water utilities works taking place in the area, and the southbound lane of Fulham Palace Road at the junction with Talgarth Road will be closed.

This will inevitably cause some major disruption and supporters are advised to allow plenty of time for their journey and to check travel updates.

From Southampton, join the M3 from the A33 and continue on to the M25 towards M4/M1/Heathrow Airport.

Come off at Junction 15 and merge on to the M4 towards London. Continue on to the A4, then take the A219 and turn right on to Finlay Street to find Craven Cottage. For more information, click here.

Getting there by train

Putney National Rail station is a 20-minute walk from Craven Cottage and served by trains from Waterloo.

The nearest Tube station is Putney Bridge, which is on the District Line, and is a 15-minute walk from the ground.

Official Coach Travel

Official coach travel provided by Princess Coaches can be purchased for this game, priced at £20 per person.

Coaches will depart St Mary's Stadium at 10.30am, Eastleigh at 10.45am and Winchester at 11am.



https://southamptonfc.com/news/2018-01-05/on-the-road-fulham-vs-saints-fa-cup-1718

 
Southampton In Focus

Fulham entertain Premier League Southampton in the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday - have a read of all the key matchday details ahead of the game.

Possible opposition absentees

Jérémy Pied - leg injury

Cedric Soares - ankle injury

Wesley Hoedt - concussion

Charlie Austin - hamstring injury
Tickets

Tickets for our FA Cup tie are available to purchase on General Sale, which are priced from £20 adults and £5 juniors when bought in advance.
Weather

It will be a chilly one down by the Thames on Saturday, around six degrees, with a 40 per cent chance of rain come 3pm.
Pre-match

Fans can pick up a pint of Carlsberg or Somersby for £3.50 (usually £4.80) up until 2pm in the Hammersmith, Riverside and Johnny Haynes Stands.
He said...

"Fulham is a good team with good principle and good football, and on their pitch is really difficult." – Mauricio Pellegrino, Southampton manager.
Live stream

As this is not a league match, there will be no live stream on fulhamfctv.
Grosvenor Casinos match odds

Fulham: 9/5

Draw: 12/5

Southampton: 7/5
Previous five results

Southampton 1-2 Crystal Palace (Premier League)

Manchester United 0-0 Southampton (Premier League)

Tottenham Hotspur 5-2 Southampton (Premier League)

Southampton 1-1 Huddersfield Town (Premier League)

Chelsea 1-0 Southampton (Premier League)




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/05/southampton-in-focus

 
Sunderland and Fulham to tussle for experienced international striker


Championship strugglers Sunderland are set to take on Fulham and Reading in the race to sign Derby County striker Chris Martin, as per page 60 of The Sun's Friday printed edition.

Chris Coleman is looking to prepare his team for the relegation dogfight but faces competition from the two sides who of course faced each other in the semi-finals of the Championship play-offs last season.

Martin played in that two-legged clash for Fulham, as he spent last season on loan there from Pride Park, but angered Fulham fans by agitating for an early return to the club after he signed a new three and a half year deal with the club in January 2017.

He scored 11 goals at Craven Cottage for the Whites but has made just seven starts for Derby under Gary Rowett, sparking interest in his services.

The Verdict:

Martin can score goals in the Championship but his attitude and work-rate is poor so any transfer move would be a risk.

The Scotsman would not be welcomed back easily by Fulham fans, which will give hope to Reading and Sunderland that they can turn his head despite being lower down the league than the West London club.

In my view, Reading is the most suitable destination for Martin, but he is still not an ideal addition to a squad low on confidence.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/sunderland-and-fulham-to-tussle-for-experienced-international-striker/

 
Staking A Claim

The only thing you can do when stepping off the substitutes' bench is make an impact. Neeskens Kebano has certainly done that in Fulham's last two games.

Having made an impression with those cameos, the DR Congo international is now looking to get his opportunity from the start when Premier League Southampton arrive in town on Saturday afternoon.

"Every time I'm on the field I try to do my best to help the team with my qualities," he tells the official matchday programme. "That's all you can do as a substitute; you try and change something and I like to think I've played my part.

"If I start or I'm on the bench, I'll still have the same spirit. It's always better to start games but if I can get on the field, I'll just try to do my thing."


To read the full interview with Kebano, pick up a programme on Saturday.

Other highlights from the publication include:

    Slaviša Jokanović and Tom Cairney pen their latest column
    Chris Baird recalls his stints at both Southampton and Fulham
    Alan Neilson remembers Fulham's 1999 FA Cup exploits
    We trace what happened to the starting XIs when the Whites travelled to The Dell in 1976
    And Gordon Davies discusses crazy transfer fees


Priced £3, the 72-page publication is available from various sellers on Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Or order it online from ProgrammeMaster where you can also purchase past editions and take out a half-season subscription.

For just £1.99, the programme is also available as a digital download on your iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, PC or Mac via Pocketmags from 1am on Saturday morning.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/05/neeskens-kebano-southampton-programme

 
Southampton: Would a defeat to Fulham the final straw for Pellegrino?

Despite the board's apparent backing of him, Southampton boss Mauricio Pellegrino will know that tomorrow's encounter with Fulham is a must-win.

The Saints bowed out of the Carabao Cup at the first attempt back in August, with Pellegrino excused due to it being early days with Wolves being a dominant Championship side.

However, four months later the Argentine has just four wins to his name in all competitions, with the majority of the Southampton fanbase calling for his sacking.

This weekend Pellegrino and his Saints side face off against Fulham side who are tenth in the Championship – but the supporters aren't full of confidence.

With three first-team defenders out and strikers who can't score, the relegation-threatened side could be on the end of an upset this weekend. If the Saints do lose, can Pellegrino be excused any more?

Despite Wolves' impressive season, the Saints should still of dispatched them but it was early days for Pellegrino and he was forgiven – a loss to Fulham would be totally inexcusable.

The London side are still within a shout of reaching the playoffs but they're also sitting mid-table in the Championship – despite injuries, there's no way the Saints can't win, on paper at least.

A victory wouldn't do much in terms of prolonging his potential stay on the south coast but a loss would definitely be the final straw. Two cup exits to Championship sides with the Saints also flirting with relegation makes for a pretty poor first half of a campaign in English football.

The board have come out to back the 46-year-old but with the fans booing every poor result, how much longer than they hold out? Pellegrino has been coy on transfer rumours but with £75 million in the bank and a week of January nearly already having passed, the Saints haven't seemed to have got close to signing anyone.

Suitable reinforcement is perhaps the only thing that would give the Southampton manager extra time in charge, with limited signings over summer it's hard to judge this as a 'Pellegrino' side just yet.

But with over half the season gone and the jury already out, would a loss to Fulham in the FA Cup tomorrow be the final straw for the man who has been branded 'tactically naive' and 'totally incompetent' by his own fanbase?



https://saintsmarching.com/2018/01/05/5430/

 
Fulham v Southampton
SAT 06 Jan 2018  FA Cup - Third Round
Venue: Craven Cottage


BBC coverage

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

---

TEAM NEWS
Fulham's Floyd Ayite is set to miss the FA Cup third-round tie with Southampton with a hamstring injury.

But fellow winger Lucas Piazon could make his first start since August following a broken leg.

Southampton are without defenders Jeremy Pied (leg), Wesley Hoedt (concussion) and Cedric Soares (hamstring).

Top scorer Charlie Austin has completed a three-game ban but misses out with a hamstring problem.

Southampton manager Mauricio Pellegrino: "Now we've got another opportunity and we will use this game as a reference to try to move one step forward.

"We want to show that we want to improve. I will try to choose my best 11 to try to win this game."

MATCH FACTS
    Fulham will be hosting Southampton in the FA Cup for the first time since a third-round replay in January 1999, when Barry Hayles scored a 85th minute winner at Craven Cottage.

    The Cottagers have lost three of their last four FA Cup games at home against opposition from a higher division, although they picked up a 4-1 win against Hull City in the fourth round last season.

    Southampton have progressed past lower league opponents in 17 of their last 18 FA Cup ties, although the last two occasions have seen the Saints taken to a replay.

    Each of Southampton's last six FA Cup third-round matches (excluding replays) have seen both teams score, with 25 goals scored in total at 4.2 goals per game.



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/42519585

 
Fulham vs. Southampton: Preview and predictions

Southampton begin their 2017/18 FA Cup campaign this weekend with a trip to face Fulham at Craven Cottage.

A run of dreadful results, including a 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace on Tuesday, has seen the Saints slip perilously close to the Premier League relegation zone and they currently sit outside it by goal difference alone.

Saturday's opponents Fulham are on a four match unbeaten run which has included three wins. They find themselves in a strong position in the  Championship in 10th place, and just four points outside the play-off places.

Last time the two sides met, Southampton ran out 3-0 winners at Craven Cottage in the 2013/14 season. A fantastic attacking display from the Saints produced goals from Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and Jay Rodriguez in a season where they would finish eighth in the Premier League, but Fulham would be relegated come May.

Just three players – Maya Yoshida, Steven Davis and James Ward-Prowse – remain at St. Mary's from the squad that traveled to London that day after player sales year upon year.

Both clubs have seen fairly contrasting seasons since then with Fulham seeing finishes of 20th, 17th and 6th in the second tier, whilst Southampton managed 7th, 6th and 8th in the Premier League.

Both sides have poor recent records in the FA Cup however, with neither team reaching past the Fifth Round during the past five campaigns. Southampton's famous win of the FA Cup in 1976 does trump Fulham's best run in the competition when they finished as runners-up a year previous in 1975.

Fulham have no fresh injury concerns ahead of Saturday's fixture, and will have a full strength squad to choose from. This includes highly-rated winger Ryan Sessegnon, who is rumoured to be a transfer target of many Premier League sides.

Southampton will be without full-backs Cedric Soares and Jeremy Pied for the trip to London. Centre-back Wesley Hoedt is also out after dizzy spells and concussion following the Manchester United game. Striker Charlie Austin also remains sidelined.

Why Fulham will win
Fulham could add to the number of teams that have benefited from Southampton's crippling lack of form and confidence. A number of teams have been able to bide their time in games against Saints and cut through an increasingly porous defence when attacking.

Home advantage also means that the London-based club will be able to have the backing of a large amount of their fans and a tough atmosphere for away teams to face. That coupled with youth, creativity and skill in their side through players like Ryan Sessegnon, Tom Cairney and Stefan Johansen could work in their favour.

Why Southampton will win
Although recent results don't show this, the Saints have a squad full of Premier League quality and players that can win games on a good day. This match could provide a few fringe players with opportunities to prove their worth, and the whole squad a chance to improve their form and confidence going forward.

With January signings supposedly imminent on the south coast, players will also be playing for their future places in the team. A cup run could be the start of an improved second-half of the season, and would be something to excite the fans.

Team predictions
Fulham

Goalkeeper: Marcus Bettinelli

Defenders: Ryan Fredericks, Denis Odoi, Tim Ream, Ryan Sessegnon

Midfielders: Tom Cairney, Oliver Norwood, Stefan Johansen

Forwards: Sheyi Ojo, Floyd Ayite, Aboubakar Kamara

Southampton

Goalkeeper: Alex McCarthy

Defenders: Jack Stephens, Jan Bednarek, Maya Yoshida, Sam McQueen

Midfielders: James Ward-Prowse, Mario Lemina, Oriol Romeu, Nathan Redmond, Dusan Tadic

Forwards: Manolo Gabbiadini

Prediction
Fulham 1-1 Southampton



https://saintsmarching.com/2018/01/05/fulham-vs-southampton-preview-predictions/

 
Southampton Fan View: Fulham clash a perfect chance to use Hesketh

At just over the halfway stage, it has been a season devoid of positives for Southampton.

The club is currently 17th in the Premier League table and was knocked out of the Carabao Cup in the second round to a heavily-rotated Wolves side.

Mauricio Pellegrino has flattered to deceive in his role as Saints boss and there have been justified calls for his head, with relegation now appearing to be a genuine, yet inexplicable, possibility. After four consecutive seasons in the top eight of the division, it seems almost certain that Saints will see their impressive run come to an unnecessary end.

The team is without a win in 13 games and an away trip to Fulham in the FA Cup seems as good an opportunity as any to put that run to bed. However, it will certainly not be a straightforward affair, with Slavisa Jokanovic's side in an excellent spell of form.

Fulham, despite starting the Championship season poorly, have recovered in style. They're sat in 10th place but are playing good football and are in good scoring form. Truth be told, Saints travel to Craven Cottage at the worst possible time, with the hosts sure to be keen on causing what would normally be an upset. Given how poorly Saints are playing, Fulham are probably favourites in this one.

It would be easy to say that this game, and the FA Cup as a whole this season, is an unwanted distraction for Saints. The club is in a relegation dogfight and the sole focus has to now be staying in the Premier League.

However, there is no reason why Pellegrino can't use the FA Cup as a platform for some players to find their way back into form and hopefully act as a catalyst to kick-start their season. More importantly, though, it is an opportunity for him to do what the club has done best since returning to the Premier League – allowing the younger players within the squad to shine.

To me, there is only one young player who truly stands out among the rest at St Mary's. That player is Jake Hesketh. He is yet to play a single minute of first-team football this season, despite now being fully fit and in good form for the club's Under-23 side.

Hesketh is a player whose creativity and intelligence can open up games. His vision and eye for a pass is nothing short of outstanding for a player of such inexperience and this could prove to be of benefit for Pellegrino as he looks to at least salvage something from the rut his side find themselves in.

Fulham play open, attacking football and it should be an end-to-end game. This would suit Hesketh, as his ability to play incisive through balls and keep the play ticking over could aid Saints in attacking transition. It feels as though there is no spark going forward for the team, largely due to Pellegrino's dumbfounding tactical approach, but Hesketh would surely contribute to a faster, more exciting Southampton side.

With Pellegrino evidently aiming to recruit some attacking reinforcements this month, it seems somewhat unlikely that he'll look to find new solutions from within, such as Hesketh. However, it seems simply negligent to ignore the playmaker's undeniable technical quality and intelligence.

Saints must start using players such as Hesketh, otherwise they risk losing them. Handing the youngster a start at Craven Cottage would surely be the logical idea.



https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/fulham-clash-perfect-chance-use-hesketh-233534342.html

 
Preview: Fulham v Southampton

After throwing away a 1-0 lead to Roy Hodgson's Palace in the most embarrassing of fashions, Southampton now find themselves without a win in nine fixtures, as they prepare to face Slovisa Jokanovic's Fulham.

But while the Saints come into this fixture in poor form, the same can't be said for the Championship outfit; they kicked off their season in worrying form, but have since found a new lease of life, winning six of their last nine fixtures and scoring 20 along the way.

But given that they are a completely different side to the one that Southampton last faced in the Premier League, we spoke with Aleksander Simon from Cottage Confidential to find out what we can expect in our 3rd round FA Cup clash.

How would you summarise Fulham's season so far?

Fulham has been the epitome of an up-and-down season. If the season ended now, it would be considered a major disappointment. There were lofty expectations of even being in an automatic promotion position, given how successful Fulham were down the stretch at the end of last season and making it into a playoff position. Some games we will look as if we are already a Premier League team, and others look like we should be in a relegation scrap. Fulham currently sit four points out of a playoff spot, so it truly hasn't been awful. Overall, it has been a very neutral season with the hopes that things begin flying here the second-half.

What formation and style of play has Jokanovic implemented?

Jokanovic has been implementing a 4-3-3 with flare up top. Up top, our wingers will have a ton of movement in order to confuse the defensive backline, and they will even switch places a lot. The defensive shape is four across the back, but when Fulham begin to push the ball forward the wing backs will push very high up the field. There will be times when we could have as many as seven attacking players in the oppositions box when we push it forward. The midfield plays a triangular shape typically with McDonald in that defensive role and Johansson and Cairney in more of an attacking role. Overall, you will see a very attack heavy team that will look to keep possession and dominate the game.

How have teams got the most joy out of your defence?

Easily our set-piece play. I can't even count the number of times that we have conceded based on set pieces. Whether it be a shot from a free kick, or someone out-muscling us for a header, it will make the fanbase fearful every time there is a free-kick in the defensive third. Another issue is that our two center backs don't work well off of one-another. You will see a lot of times them being very far apart from one another and teams have the ability to split the ball between them. If there is a player with creative movement up top, it will be a field day for any opposition.

You're stranded on a desert island and can only be joined by one Fulham player; who's it going to be?

Love this question. It would have to be Tom Cairney. Just seems like a lad that everyone enjoys being around and seems like a really nice guy. Also, he's creative on the pitch, so he's got to be creative off of it too and figure out a way to get us out right?

Which Southampton player would you take to join Fulham?

Manolo Gabbiadini. We are desperate for a clinical finisher up top. I believe he has had his issues lately with the club and not getting much playing time, but you cannot deny his skill level. We fail to put away so many opportunities and if we converted even just a few more we would probably already be in a playoff spot. Gabbiadini would be the perfect piece, especially when we have so much attacking play that he could be critical in that.

The Telegraph recently claimed Southampton were interested in Ryan Sessegnon; just how talented is the boy?

I don't even know where to begin. This kid is unreal and I hope that he continues with us because I believe he could really lose a lot by going to a "bigger" club. He has played every single minute this season for us. Jokanovic continues to play him as a left fullback, but anyone who watches an ounce of Fulham know that his true position is a left winger. He is pacey, intelligent, and you hold your breath a little bit every single time he touches the ball. He just makes the game look so easy. Not only that, he's 17-year of age. Rumors are coming out of camp that his twin brother, Steven, is just as good as he is too..

Score prediction what do you think the score will be this Sunday?

This is tough for me because we are in extremely good form at the moment and Southampton are in extremely poor form. However, your lot is the more talented squad even with your woes. The matchup to watch will be over on that left-side of the pitch. It is where all of our dangerous play is going to come from, and we will most likely have Sessegnon and Neeskens Kebano out there, two very fast, technical players. Additionally, you won't have Cedric or Pied, so that will be tough to defend. I still think you will pull out a 2-1 win, but it could just as easily be the other way around.



http://freshsaints.com/preview-fulham-v-southampton/

 
Football & Education Programme

Fulham Football Club Foundation is currently recruiting for the 2018/19 cohort of Football & Education students across our South London colleges.

Successful applicants will have the choice of studying for A Level or BTEC qualifications in a variety of subjects under the guidance of experienced teachers and coaches, in conjunction with football training and competition in the either the National Youth Development League (U19) or The National League Youth Alliance (U19).

Students will have access to high quality coaching, physiotherapists, and strength and conditioning coaches who will support individual development through tailored programmes, and will receive pastoral guidance in their journey as student-athletes.

Applicants must be aged 16-18 (under-18 on 31st August 2018) and have a minimum of five GCSEs including English and Maths.

Included in the programme:

•        Branded match and training kit (at a subsidised cost)

•        First Team match tickets

•        Rehabilitation support from Fulham Physiotherapists

•        Use of Fulham FC training facilities

•        Player appearances at training

•        Student mentoring

•        Support for academic studies by specialists at the club

•        Additional sports coaching qualifications Opportunities for work experience and volunteering with Fulham FC Foundation.

•        Support with future career planning (Higher Education, Apprenticeships, Work Placements)

Entry requirements:

•        Applicants must be aged between 16 and under 18 on 31st August 2018

•        Five GCSEs including English and Maths

•        Successful selection at the football trial

•        Successful admission to relevant college through application and interview

Contact Steve Jaye, FFCF Football Development & Education Manager to register your place ([email protected] or 0870 442 5432)



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/05/football-education-programme

 
Fulham vs Southampton: Match Preview

Southampton face another trip up to London this weekend as they entertain Championship side Fulham at Craven Cottage as the FA Cup third round gets underway.

For Southampton, this could be a welcome distraction to their atrocious league form which has seen just one win in 10 matches and they look to get back on track with a victory against Fulham.

As for Fulham, they are right in the middle of a race to reach the play-offs in the Championship after claiming three wins out of their last five.

Saints come into this one on the back of a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace on Tuesday evening, whilst the hosts come into the game with great confidence after beating Ipswich Town 4-1 during the week.

Fulham struggled in the opening weeks but have somewhat made a recovery of late and are right in the hunt to reach the play-offs, so this match may not be the top of their priority.

As for Saints, it's a chance to bring some confidence into the side after not winning since the end of November. This came against Everton and provides a pleasant opportunity for Mauricio Pellegrino and his side.

Saints have disappointed on the road though, winning just one match on their travels which came against Crystal Palace in September.

Whilst Saints need to take this match seriously, it could offer some chances for some of the fringe and younger squad players to get a go in the team as Pellegrino goes in search of claiming a much needed victory.

Fulham isn't the worst fixture that Saints could have been tasked with to get their season back on track. The game is set to be played in front of near 5,000 travelling Saints fans.

The two sides haven't met since 2014 when Saints claimed a comfortable 3-0 victory in their return season to the Premier League.

In terms of team news, Saints remain without Cedric Soares and Charlie Austin, who have both missed the Christmas period with respective ankle and hamstring injuries. Wesley Hoedt will also miss out after sustaining concussion in the draw at Manchester United. Frenchman Jeremy Pied will also miss out having picked up an injury against Crystal Palace. The extent of Pied's knock is yet to be confirmed.

Fulham are at a full bill of health for his encounter in terms of injuries and suspensions, although you'd expect Fulham to rotate as their priority lies in the Championship promotion race.

I'd expect Saints to dominate much of the ball throughout this contest but you'd think that their quality would shine through in the end as the last thing both teams want is a cup replay in a couple of weeks.

I believe that Saints will just nick this by 2-1 on Saturday afternoon.



http://readsouthampton.com/2018/01/05/fulham-vs-southampton-match-preview/

 
Why Spurs have advantage over PSG in race for Fulham's Sessegnon

PSG have entered the race to sign Fulham starlet Ryan Sessegnon but do Tottenham still have one final trump card up their sleeve?

Interest in Fulham starlet Ryan Sessegnon is hotting up, with the Mirror now reporting that Paris Saint-Germain have entered the race for the youngster's signature.

Premier League trio Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are also understood to be keeping tabs, as are Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Sessegnon is still just 17-years-old, yet has already played 58 first team matches for the Cottagers and is valued at over £30m by his current club.

Spurs made a move to sign the teenager over the summer, but the left-back instead opted to sign a new contract at Craven Cottage to keep him in West London until 2020.

PSG believe the fact Sessegnon, who is the cousin of Benin international Stephane Sessegnon, can speak French will aid them in their pursuit of the full-back but Tottenham still hold one trump card over all other interested parties.

The Liverpool Echo reported in June after the England Under-19 international had penned a new three-year deal that he wanted to remain in the English capital.

With Sessegnon still being so young and his family living in London this should perhaps be understandable and with Mauricio Pochettino having such a strong reputation of nurturing emerging talent, could the North Londoners still land their man?



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/01/05/why-spurs-have-advantage-over-psg-in-race-for-fulhams-sessegnon/

 
Fulham vs Southampton: Last time out

Following on from a 2-1 defeat against Crystal Palace on Tuesday evening, Southampton face Fulham in the FA Cup this weekend.

Southampton come into the encounter on the back of a horrendous run of results which has seen just one victory in 10 Premier League games, which came all the way back in November.

The tale is different for the London club as they have lost just two of their last 10, including three wins in their past five encounters.

The most recent meeting between the two at the Craven Cottage was a day to remember for the Saints as they claimed a 3-0 victory on the road back in 2014.

Saints lined up strongly on a comfortable afternoon for them:

Boruc, Chambers, Fonte, Yoshida, Shaw, Wanyama, Schneiderlin, Davis, Lallana, Rodriguez, Lambert

It was an afternoon which Saints dominated in their second season back in the Premier League as they claimed a much needed victory against Fulham.

It took until the second-half for the Saints took the lead through Adam Lallana in the 64th minute, before Rickie Lambert furthered the lead in the 70th minute.

Jay Rodriguez ended the contest with a brilliant finish following an unbelievable pass from Lambert as Saints collected the three points on the road.

Saints received three bookings on the day as Rodriguez, Schneiderlin and Wanyama all saw their names taken but it didn't have any impact on the final outcome.

This is the first meeting between the two for nearly four years and Saints will need to be at their best if they are to secure their passage through to the fourth round of the FA Cup.



http://readsouthampton.com/2018/01/05/fulham-vs-southampton-last-time/

 
4-3-3 Predicted Fulham Lineup Vs Southampton : Rui Fonte To Start Up Top?

Southampton are travelling to Craven Cottage for their third-round FA Cup fixture against an inform Fulham team.

The hosts coming into this game after a dominating 4-1 win against Ipswich Town. The Tractor Boys had no answer for Fulham who slotted in 4 goals in quick successions to end the tie for good.

Fulham's season ambitions lie in making the playoffs of the EFL Championship but they are still 4 points behind Leeds United and have a few tough fixtures to endure in the coming weeks. However, a win against a struggling Southampton side can be a big boost to their current campaign. The Cottagers have a full bill of health whereas Mauricio Pellegrino has to rotate his squad around a few injuries.

The Saints have not registered a single win since their 4-1 result against Everton on 26th November. The fans were left in despair after a visiting Crystal Palace ran away with 3 points in the last fixture seeing the club match points with Stoke City in the relegation zone.

Haunted by their uncertain Premier League fixture, Pellegrino might not employ all his best resources for this fixture.

Fulham manager, Slavisa Jokanovic is expected to field his men in the 4-3-3 formation.

Defence
David Button is expected to get the nod ahead of Marcus Bettinelli in between the sticks. He might have a busy day against a top-flight opponent.

Ryan Fredericks should get a breather from this matchup with Steven Sessegnon fielded in the right-back position. Denis Odoi might find himself get featured from the left.

Tomas Kalas and Tim Rean might get paired up in the centre-back role to stand firm against a hungry Manolo Gabbiadini.

Midfield
Ibrahim Cisse can expect a return to the starting XI in the defensive midfield role. This will come as a massive opportunity to prove himself.

Oliver Norwood and Tom Cairney should feature in front of Cisse with more offensive duties. Cairney has so far registered just 1 goal into his name and should look to improve upon that tally.

Attack
Neeskens Kebano is a predicted starter in the left wing role ahead of Sheyi Ojo. He came on in the last fixture and looked menacing against the opposition.

Lucas Piazon recovered from injury last month and after showing promise in substitute appearances, he may be given an opportunity here from the left wing.

Aboubakar Kamara should be replaced by Rui Fonte in the number nine role. The Portuguese has had limited opportunities to prove himself this season mostly coming off the bench in the last few games. He would relish this chance to impress Jovanovic.



http://the4thofficial.net/2018/01/4-3-3-predicted-fulham-lineup-vs-southampton-rui-fonte-start-top/

 
PSG 'desperate' to sign Tottenham and Man United target this summer

Paris Saint-Germain are eager to sign Tottenham target Ryan Sessegnon this summer, according to The Mirror.

Spurs have been repeatedly linked with a move for the 17-year-old who has been a revelation for Championship side Fulham over the last two seasons – Manchester United are also believed to be fond of him.

Fulham have done well to hold on to the left-back for this long, but their resolve could be truly tested if PSG's interest is genuine.

The report suggests Fulham now value Sessegnon at around £30 million. Have Tottenham left it too late?





http://www.tottenhamblog.com/2018/01/05/psg-desperate-to-sign-tottenham-and-man-united-target-this-summer/

 
Should Spurs renew interest in Celtic's Tierney if Sessegnon doesn't join?

If Manchester United focus on Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon should Tottenham turn attention back to Kieran Tierney of Celtic?

Manchester United have identified Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon and Kieran Tierney of Celtic as the two primary options to fill the club's troublesome left-back slot, reports the Daily Record.

Luke Shaw has most recently occupied the role having previously been out of favour under manager Jose Mourinho, but Daley Blind, Matteo Darmian, Marcos Rojo and Ashley Young have all played there already this season as well.

Mourinho is thought to favour a more experienced signing, such as Juventus' Alex Sandro, but is an admirer of both Sessegnon and Tierney with the club wanting to sign a younger option for the long-term.

If the Red Devils focus their attention on the Cottagers teenager this would come as a blow to Tottenham Hotspur, who as the Mirror reports tried to sign the 17-year-old over the summer and still hold an interest in the £30m+ rated full-back.

With Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid also thought to be in the hunt, there is the danger of a bidding war starting that Spurs would not be able to compete in.

However, if United do focus on Sessegnon then should the North Londoners renew their interest in Tierney - as reported by ESPN back in November of last year.

The 20-year-old has greatly impressed for the Hoops over the past two seasons and former Scotland boss Gordon Strachan has told clubs in England to sign the versatile defender.

Perhaps the biggest potential issue for Tottenham would be Tierney's love of the Glasgow club where he came through as a boy, but if the price is right then the Bhoys could well sell.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/01/05/should-spurs-renew-interest-in-celtics-tierney-if-sessegnon-does/

 
FA Cup Junior Offer

As Fulham begin their Emirates FA Cup journey this weekend at Craven Cottage, supporters can enjoy some exciting retail offers online and at the Stadium Store.

With up to 50% off on selected items in our Winter Sale, this weekend junior fans can also enjoy £10 off all 17/18 Home and Away Replica Shirts, as well as £5 off all Home and Away Replica Shorts.

Also, available instore only, fans can pick up an exclusive Third Round FA Cup scarf for just £10.

Visit the Stadium Store today, or shop online.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/06/fa-cup-junior-offer

 
Göttingen Day Two

Day two of the Sparkasse & VGH Cup in Germany brought more success for Fulham's Under-19's as they took control of the group with two more convincing wins over local teams JSG Auetal-Altes Amt and JSG Ulsar/Solling.

Fulham went on to beat their first opponents JSG Auetal-Altes Amt 6-0, before putting another 6 past JSG Ulsar/Solling.


Ryan De Havilland opened the scoring for the Whites 54 seconds into the first match of the day, Djed Spence whipped a ball across the face of goal and from 5 yards out De Havilland dispatched it into the top of the net to break the deadlock.

Spence went himself from long range two minutes later but his effort was blocked by a blue shirt. De Havilland pulled a ball back from Dan Martin at the edge of the area but he blasted over the bar.

In the next play however, Martin had a two on one but elected to drag the ball past the keeper and slotted to double the advantage.

Five minutes in, Nicolas Santos-Clase added to the score line, he played off the sideboards to himself, and with a step over the Auetal-Altes keeper was beaten for the third of the afternoon.

Six minutes in and Joe Felix won the ball in midfield, he sold his defender and put Reece York in wide, and he slotted for the fourth, grabbing his third of the tournament.

A minute later York tussled with the German's defence in the corner, he managed to get the ball out for Santos-Clase, with more trickery he found York's run who smashed it through the keeper to make it 5-0.

With the clock ticking down to four minutes left, Jayden Harris fired a couple of efforts on target but was denied by the keeper.

Tyrese Francois added the 6th as he ran in from sweeper keeper and shot hard and low from outside the area into the corner.

Fulham's second game against JSG Uslar/Solling was just as convincing, beating the local team 6-1.

In the fist minute Jaydn Mundle-Smith had a pop at goal, Santos-Clase collected the ball and tried a back flick through the keeper's legs, however a faint touch prevented a superb goal.

It took 80 seconds for Francois to score, like previous goals he brought the ball forward and shot hard at goal, it took a bit of a deflection on the way for the breakthrough.

Three minutes in Felix pulled a ball back to Francois and the Australian sent a ferocious shot for the corner but a strong save prevented him.


Felix in the next play however, smashed the ball into the back of the net right of goal, tight to sideboards to make it 2-0.

The next few minutes were completely dominated by the Young Whites, all shooting on sight.

Felix scored Fulham's third goal with three and a half minutes left on the clock after some intricate play with De Havilland.

JSG Uslar/Solling scored a consolation goal from within their own half as De Havilland at rush goalie was too far off his line to make the stop.

Harris soon pulled back the three goal advantage 20 seconds later, slotting a sweeping through ball past the keeper with a minute left to go to make it 4-1.

Jaydn Mundle-Smith wanted to get in on the action, without pressure in the final minute he slotted not one, but two goals after some quick passing from the Young Whites to secure a 6-1 victory, making it four wins out of four for the Young Whites.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/06/gottingen-day-two

 
Pay On The Gate

Join us at Craven Cottage this afternoon as Fulham kick-off their Emirates FA Cup journey in Round Three against Southampton.

Tickets are available to purchase on the gate and are priced at £30 adults, £25 concessions and £15 juniors*.

To buy in advance fans can purchase online, by phone on 0203 871 0810 (opt. 1) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

Join us at the Cottage for FA Cup action - COYW!



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/january/06/pay-on-the-gate

 
No rest for Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon - despite playing the most minutes at just 17

Slavisa Jokanovic has no plans to rest the 17-year-old, despite playing the most minutes of any member of the team at just 17

yan Sessegnon has played the most minutes of any Fulham player so far this season.

The 17-year-old sensation continues to show his quality and scored twice as Fulham beat Ipswich Town 4-1 on Tuesday night.

But there will be no rest for the youngster, despite the temptation to change things with it being FA Cup third round weekend.

Manager Slavisa Jokanovic has already admitted that he will be "respecting the competition" and Sessegnon will not be getting a rest, mainly because the boss believes there's no one to take his place.

He said : "No, I do not rest him, that opportunity does not exist. If he's not left-back he plays winger, if he's not winger he plays left-back, he's at a great level in form.

"There was the opportunity last season for me to care about them, now I'm a little bit less caring!"



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/no-rest-fulhams-ryan-sessegnon-14120493