Friends of Fulham

 
Aston Villa tipped to secure 9/1 promotion boost at Fulham

David Prutton has tipped Aston Villa to continue their excellent run of form with a victory at Fulham on Saturday.

Seven wins in a row has taken Villa up to second in the Championship, 12 points behind Wolverhampton Wanderers with 15 games to play.

Fulham are currently fifth in the table, seven points behind Villa having gone nine league games without defeat, but the Sky Sports pundit believes the Midlands side will nick a 1-0 win this weekend (9/1 with Sky Bet).

"This should be a great battle between two of the form teams in the Sky Bet Championship right now, and arguably Aston Villa's biggest test for quite a while," he said.

"Steve Bruce's side have been excellent lately and momentum is really on their side at the moment.

"Fulham have been brilliant lately and it's a tough game to call, but I think Villa will just nab victory.

Villa beat Fulham 2-1 in the reverse fixture earlier in the season, but Saturday's match will be a tough test of their promotion credentials.

Fulham have won six in a row at Craven Cottage and are more than capable of taking something from the game.

The draw is priced at 12/5 and that could be the way to play this one.



http://sportslens.com/aston-villa-tipped-to-secure-9-1-promotion-boost-at-fulham/225065/

 
Liverpool man Sheyi Ojo or Chelsea man Lucas Piazon? What is Fulham's strongest XI?

We've asked what various people around the club feel is Fulham's strongest XI - here's what everyone had to say

Fulham now have a fully fit squad available to them, and while that's good news it also brings a selection headache for Slavisa Jokanovic .

We know that only five of the six loanees can fit into a matchday squad, but deciding which of those six to chose is going to be a difficult job in the Fulham war room from now until the end of the season.

There's also the question of who starts up front for the side - Fulham now have a wealth of serious attacking options that could all have an argument to start.

So, we've asked various people from around Fulham to have their say on what they think the strongest XI is and why.

Ryan O'Donovan, Fulham reporter @ GetWestLondon

It's a real Jekyll and Hyde ask this - half of them is extremely straight forward to pick, but the other half is a nightmare.

But not the bad type, it's a headache that Slavisa Jokanovic would rather have than not having strength in depth in his side, especially coming into this stage of the season.

I've always preferred David Button as my first choice keeper, but with the way Marcus Bettinelli is playing there is no way you can drop him from the side - the rest of the back four picks itself I think.

In midfield, Kevin McDonald and Stefan Johansen are certains, but it's the battle between Ollie Norwood and Tom Cairney that interests me - Norwood has been pretty solid in that role but Cairney offers that little bit extra class that you get from a top quality player.

Up front is the tough one - I think I'd go with a fully fit Aleksandar Mitrovic flanked by Ryan Sessegnon and Lucas Piazon. I like Sheyi Ojo but Piazon has been in stunning form since returning from injury and the side look a different prospect with him in it.

My XI: Bettinelli, Fredericks, Targett, Kalas, Ream, McDonald, Johansen, Cairney, Piazon, R. Sessegnon, Mitrovic

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14277840.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/ryan-strongest-XI.png)
Ryan O'Donovan's starting XI

Dan Crawford, Fulham Supporters' Trust

Slavisa Jokanovic has so many options in his squad post the January transfer window that it took me more time than I thought it would to settle on this line up.

With Marcus Bettinelli having brought some much needed solidity in goal and Matt Targett striking up such a great understanding with Ryan Sessegnon, the back five picks itself.

I think Fulham will be better for having their three midfield musketeers together again. I chose Ojo ahead of Piazon because I think his pace will unsettle Championship defences who might try and push high up the pitch - whilst Mitrovic offers a more imposing option up front and I think he'll be a real asset with a few more minutes under his belt.

My XI: Bettinelli; Fredericks, Targett, Kalas, Ream; McDonald, Johansen, Cairney; Ojo, R. Sessegnon, Mitrovic.

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14277898.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/dan-starting-xi.png)
Dan Crawford's starting XI

Jack Collins, Fulhamish

To put it in perspective, it's an absolute blessing that we're even having a conversation about who should start for Fulham because it shows the depth of squad that the management and the backroom staff have put together – this is a group of players that can and should challenge for promotion now, and if Jokanovic can build on the recent run of form that they've bene on across a tricky period, that will be the case.

Picking a team isn't easy, but I've given it a go. Bettinelli starts in goal, as I imagine he will for most fans now. I still don't believe there's particularly much in quality between Fulham's two keepers, but there can be no denying that Bettinelli's return to the side has coincided with an upwards trend in results over both the previous two seasons, and whether it's simply confidence that the back four has in him or something else, it's pretty clear that only an injury will put him out of the side now.

The first and only real dilemma in the defence is the position of right-back. Ryan Frederick's recent form means he gets the nod, but it's interesting that we have another dynamic there now, with Cyrus Christie offering athleticism, height and a lovely delivery as an alternative to Fredericks' blistering pace. Ream, Kalas, and Matt Targett, who's hardly put a foot wrong since arriving, make up the rest of the back four.

Ollie Norwood has seen a resurgence of late, but on a tactical level I think he's the one who has to give way to Tom Cairney when the captain returns to full fitness. Whilst he has filled in admirably, and there are many who feel that Johansen's early dreadful form should see him dropped instead, I feel like the box-to-box energy that Stef brings is what provides the foil for Cairney's languid style to flourish alongside KMac's defensive solidity.

Norwood remains an excellent option, but I do believe his quarterback style is too static to fully allow TC to express himself alongside Ollie in the midfield. On the left, Sess picks himself, but I think the two roles alongside him are probably where the most discussion will be had.

I think Aleksandar Mitrovic, when match-fit, will lead the line; but I also feel he will do best with a rapid winger alongside him who will get the ball into the box – someone like Neeskens Kebano. If Rui Fonte plays, as discussed at length, then Lucas Piazon should play alongside him in order to build upon that defence-unlocking intricacy that worked so well against Burton Albion.

My XI: Bettinelli; Fredericks, Kalas, Ream, Targett; McDonald, Johansen, Cairney; Kebano, Mitrovic, Sessegnon

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14279454.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/jack-collins-xi.png)
Jack Collins' strongest XI

Russ Goldman, Cottage Talk

For my starting XI, the defence will be Marcus Bettinelli as the goalkeeper, Ryan Fredericks as your right-back, the centre-back pairing is Tomas Kalas and Tim Ream.

Matt Targett is my left-back, because in a very short period of time, he has fit perfectly in what Jokanovic wants from his full-backs as he is very good in attack, but can also defend just as well.

The midfield three would be Kevin McDonald, Stefan Johansen, and Tom Cairney. Oliver Norwood does not deserve to be left out, but when fully fit, Cairney is your best player so someone has to go.

Up front, I have Ryan Sessegnon on the left, Aleksandar Mitrovic in the center, and on the right I have Sheyi Ojo. I struggled to pick between Lucas Piazon and Ojo, but went with the player who has more pace, and fits into the philosophy that Jokanovic wants to play.

I could have easily picked Piazon, because right now I think he is the more polished overall player, but Ojo when fit I think is the bigger threat against the opposition.

My XI: Bettinelli, Fredericks, Kalas, Ream, Targett; McDonald, Norwood, Johansen; Ojo, Mitrovic, Sessegnon

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14279488.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/russ-strongest-xi.png)
Russ Goldman's strongest XI

Combined team, Fulham Focus

This is a combined effort from the team over at Fulham Focus, who have voted for their most popular XI.

The only positions that weren't agreed were that four went for Odoi over Kalas but everyone agreed it was the hardest position to pick between those two. Two went for Kamara instead of Mitrovic and one for Fonte. One for Ojo over Piazon. The rest of the team was 100% agreed.

Our XI: Bettinelli, Targett, Ream, Kalas, Fredericks, McDonald, Johansen, Cairney, Sessegnon, Mitrovic, Piazon

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14279553.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/fulham-focus-xi.png)
Fulham Focus' combined XI

Aaron Paul, BBC London

In Marcus Bettinelli, Fulham have a solid shot stopper, and someone who evidently has dressing room presence; which ultimately transpires to the pitch. The back four are strong and pretty much pick themselves. In Kalas and Ream you have two defenders who have simply improved over time, whilst there have been some questions over Kalas' performances this season, his partnership with Ream has grown from strength to strength. No doubt with huge credit to the American- Ream offers a calm head and is excellent in pressurised situations, for someone I personally wasn't a fan of, it's nice to see how much of a fan favourite he has become.

The midfield picks itself really, Kevin McDonald- Braveheart, The Carnoustie Crusher, the man is a machine, very committed, passionate and a leader, and a great guy as well. Stefan Johansen has seen his critics come and go this season with some hit and miss performances but I think he is the perfect foil for Tom Cairney to operate as freely as he does. Credit must go to Johansen for that stunning goal at Cardiff- the way he was looking behind him for runners- it was like he was running in the Olympics!.

Tom Cairney- what can you say about the guy, he is getting better and better each day, I was sceptical when he was appointed captain in the summer, but I think TC has really excelled in the role, he is an integral cog in the Fulham machine, and I think that Slavisa Jokanovic's style of play really gets the most out of him.

The front three have been the most difficult choice of all. I think the only definite starter for me is Ryan Sessegnon, he has shone on the wing and in an attacking position. what concerns and (angers) me is the National Press and their portrayal of the new boy wonder. I think that playing at Fulham has given Ryan a grounding, he's had to grow up and learn fast, and as long as he doesnt get poached by another club to play at Left Back- i think we may have found the solution to England's long term left wing issue.

The right wing is a problem for me, I love Lucas Piazon but feel that maybe his work rate and his evident affinity to the fans and club will always put him above Kebano and Ayite in the fans eyes. Kebano is another player that i do like, he's quick, with a low centre of gravity and a powerful shot, he is definitely a great asset to have in the squad. I've opted for Floyd Ayite because I feel he is the most natural winger out of those up for selection, he can be intelligent on the ball and plays some neat touches, I'm going to go for him.

Rui Fonte is a bit of a mystery, technically he is gifted, there is no doubt, but in my opinion his relatively small stature lets him down in what is a physical league, there could be an argument that Fonte is more of a number 10, which would be understandable. In my opinion, that is why Mitrovic comes in over Fonte, he is what I would call a complete forward, with the ability to drop deep to collect and work the ball towards goal, and be a poacher on the flipside!

My XI: Bettinelli, Fredericks, Kalas, Ream, Targett; McDonald, Johansen, Cairney; Ayite, Sessesgnon, Mitrovic

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14281918.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/aaron-XI.png)
Aaron's XI

Lydia Campbell, HammyEnd.com

My strongest XI is quite close to what Slavisa Jokanovic has been able to field over the past couple of games and, bar Bolton, it has worked very well for us. Marcus Bettinelli for me should always play ahead of Button and the results speak for themselves there. Tim Ream and Tomas Kalas have forged a strong partnership in the centre of defence and although there is a mistake in them, together they are better options than Djalo playing with either of them. Denis Odoi has proved himself as a decent stand in, but his lack of height is worrying at CB.

Fulham under Jokanovic play best with wingbacks, and Ryan Fredericks and Matty Target get the nod for me. Targetts home debut against Nottingham Forest was brilliant, bar a few poor final balls, and shows why he is so highly rated. Throughout the start of the season when Fulham were struggling, Fredericks was often our best player and should start ahead of Christie for now at least.

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14256632.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/PBP_SAH_WL180219_0021.jpg)
(Image: Paul Burgman)

In the midfield, Kevin McDonald is our anchor and was the sort of player missing from Fulham during the relegation year and the two seasons that followed. By breaking up play in front of the defence, McDonald has been our underrated saviour this season and last. Despite some difficult games this year, I would still go for Stefan Johansen next in centre midfield playing alongside Tom Cairney. Johansen looks a better player beside Cairney, which again highlights the importance of our captain going forward. Norwood has quality, but I think he does Cairney's job well when needed, but isn't quite as affective when standing in for Johansen.

Cairney himself is the heart beat of the Fulham team that wants promotion. Although we have played without him a lot this season because of injury, I would always have him on when available.

Ryan Sessegnon has made the left wing position his and I just think that we have to enjoy him while we can! He seems to have already formed a promising partnership with Targett so it will be exciting to see how they do in the run in.

Lucas Piazon has the gile and passion that is required for promotion so I would have him starting at right wing.

Up front is the difficult decision but I would go with Mitrovic there if fully fit. This is purely down to the fact that he is proven in England while Kamara and Fonte are still finding their feet. That and the fact that he would probably run through a brick wall for fellow country man Jokanovic is why he gets the nod.

My XI: Bettinelli, Fredericks, Ream, Kalas, Targett, McDonald, Johansen, Cairney, Piazon, Mitrovic, Sessegnon

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14277840.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/ryan-strongest-XI.png)
Ryan O'Donovan's starting XI




https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/slavisa-jokanovic-fulham-strongest-team-14277249

 
U23s Travel to Stoke

Peter Grant's Under-23s are back in action for the first time in two weeks this Saturday as they travel to Stoke City. Kick off is 2pm at the Bet365 Stadium.

The Whites sit fifth in the table on the back of two consecutive losses to West Bromwich Albion away, followed by top of the table Blackburn Rovers at Motspur Park.

Stoke are second from bottom in 11th position, with one win in their last seven league matches. However, the Potters did win their last match when they hosted Middlesbrough in a 3-2 victory.

These two sides met back in October in the reverse fixture at Motspur Park where Fulham ran out 2-1 winners.

Fulham conceded early on in the second minute and were forced to mount a comeback.

Rob Atkinson headed his first goal for the Club to pull the Whites level, before Elijah Adebayo scored the winner from the penalty spot just before halftime.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/february/16/u23s-travel-to-stoke

 
Steve Bruce offers up a very worrying Aston Villa injury update ahead of Fulham

Aston Villa team news includes updates on key pair ahead of Fulham

Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce has confirmed the club have concerns about key pair Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah ahead of tomorrow's crunch promotion clash with Fulham.

In-form Villa head to the capital to take on Slavisa Jokanovic's Fulham looking to win eight successive league games for the first time since 1975.

But they may be without two of their star performers with Grealish and Adomah carrying knocks.

Adomah was struggling with a hamstring problem midway through the Second City derby but recovered to fire in the decisive first against Birmingham City.

Grealish is also carrying a slight knock and Bruce confirmed both players will be assessed ahead of the match at Craven Cottage.

He said: "There's a doubt about Adomah and there's a doubt about Grealish unfortunately. We'll see how they both are later today."

Adomah is Villa's top scorer this season with 14 goals while Grealish has been inspirational since his return from a freak kidney injury.

Villa have an otherwise fully fit squad with just long term absentees Jonathan Kodjia (ankle) and Jed Steer (shoulder) on the sidelines.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-jack-grealish-injury-14297680

 
Are Fulham top two contenders if they beat Aston Villa?

The race for promotion is beginning to hot up in the Championship.

Fulham host Aston Villa in the Championship this weekend, in a crucial game which could have a big say on who will be promoted.

Aston Villa climbed into second spot with victory against bitter rivals Birmingham City last weekend, while the Cottagers are in fifth place and on a run of nine games unbeaten.

Fulham are just seven points behind Villa in second so a win could see them close the gap to four points with 14 games still to play.

Derby County, who are third, are a point behind Villa but have played a game more so, if Slavisa Jokanovic's side beat the Villans, they will go within three points of the Rams. Cardiff City are also on the same number of points as Derby, they host Middlesbrough this weekend and Tony Pulis's side will not be easy to take three points from.

Fulham went on a similar run in the second half of last season to climb into the play-off places, so they have proved they are capable of sustaining a run of form. Should they produce a similar run to last season, they could really threaten the top two positions and victory over the team who currently hold the second automatic promotion spot will certainly be a huge statement of intent.

Jokanovic will not want to suffer play-off heartache for a second consecutive season and will have what has happened to Sheffield Wednesday after their two failed play-off campaigns in the back of his mind, potentially using that as motivation to push for second place rather than look over their shoulders.

One thing is for certain: a Fulham win will blow the promotion race wide open.




http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/02/15/pj-are-fulham-top-two-contenders-if-they-beat-aston-villa/

 
Matchday Live: Aston Villa

Overseas fans can enjoy a live stream of Saturday's Sky Bet Championship encounter against Aston Villa at Craven Cottage.

If you are already a fulhamfctv subscriber you can pick up a match pass for just £5, while non-subscribers can access the stream for £10, and also enjoy video content on the official website for 48 hours from the point of purchase!

Please note that you must be abroad and be using an overseas bank account to access the stream.

The stream will kick in around 30 minutes prior to kick-off, with a number of links to the correct page across the website. Alternatively, head to www.fulhamfc.com/live to view the game. We recommend watching via Google Chrome.

For our supporters based in the UK and Ireland, you can listen to full live commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid, with a monthly subscription. 

Any fans who experience problems on a matchday with your stream please contact > [email protected].

Fans who have experienced issues accessing the stream in the past are advised to have a look at our streaming tips page which we constructed following feedback from supporters, while our FAQs are available here.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/february/16/matchday-live-aston-villa

 
Aston Villa In Focus

An update on limited ticket availability, Villa's team news and form, Grosvenor Casinos' match odds, and an SW6 weather forecast ahead of Saturday's crunch fixture at Craven Cottage.

Possible opposition absentees

Jonathan Kodjia - ankle injury

Jed Steer - shoulder injury

Albert Adomah - hamstring injury

Jack Grealish - calf injury
Tickets

Tickets for this match are now extremely limited. None will be available to buy on the day, so secure yours now to avoid disappointment.
Weather

A sunny day is anticipated in SW6 this Saturday with temperatures around nine degrees at kick-off.
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.
Live stream

Overseas subscribers to fulhamfctv will be able to watch a live stream of this game. Follow this link for all available packages, and head to www.fulhamfc.com/live from 2.30pm (GMT) to view..
Grosvenor Casinos match odds

Fulham: 23/20

Draw: 23/10

Aston Villa: 23/10
Previous five results

Aston Villa 2-0 Birmingham City (Championship)

Aston Villa 3-2 Burton Albion (Championship)

Sheffield United 0-1 Aston Villa (Championship)

Aston Villa 3-1 Barnsley (Championship)

Nottingham Forest 0-1 Aston Villa (Championship)



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/february/16/aston-villa-in-focus

 
Double Blow For Bruce Ahead Of Fulham?

Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce has revealed a huge double blow in our preparations for Fulham this weekend.

Villa head to Craven Cottage on Saturday to face Fulham and our aim is to consolidate that second spot in the Championship table and hopefully take an eighth straight victory for the first time in over four decades.

However Bruce has doubts over both Albert Adomah and Jack Grealish this weekend. Adomah was substituted at the death of the derby affair over Birmingham City last weekend and Grealish went off five minutes ahead of him and they are both doubts with slight knocks at this moment in time.

When Bruce's press conference filters through they'll obviously be more details about their issues, but they are set to be assessed late on and given the form they have been showing in our recent winning streak, losing either, let alone both, would be a massive complication.

Maybe time for someone else to step up and become the hero.




Read more: http://www.astonvilla.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=7524332#ixzz57LVKcv00

 
Fulham v Aston Villa
SAT 17 Feb 2018   Championship
Venue: Craven Cottage


Fulham will assess captain Tom Cairney, who featured from the bench against Bolton, after a niggling knee injury.

Boss Slavisa Jokanovic has no other injury worries as he looks to extend their nine-match unbeaten league run.

Aston Villa will monitor the fitness of Albert Adomah, who nursed a tight hamstring through last Sunday's 2-0 derby win over Birmingham City.

They also have a concern over last weekend's man of the match Jack Grealish, who has a calf injury.

On-loan Bournemouth striker Lewis Grabban may feature again after making his debut off the bench against Blues.

Fit-again Gabby Agbonlahor could be back in the squad as Villa chase an eighth-successive Championship win against a Fulham side who have won their last six consecutive home league matches.

SAM's prediction
Home win 49%   Draw 28%   Away win 23%

SAM, the Sports Analytics Machine, is a super-computer built by @ProfIanMcHale of the University of Liverpool.

Match facts
    Fulham have lost just one of their last 11 home league games against Villa - 2-0 Premier League defeat in January 2010.
    Villa, who won 2-1 at home to Fulham in October, have not achieved a league double over the Cottagers since the 2009-10 season.
    Fulham have not won seven home league matches in a row since a run of eight back between May and October 2000.
    Villa's seven-game winning run in the league is their best since 1990. They last won eight league games in a row in April 1975 under Ron Saunders when they won promotion back to the top flight.
    Only Sheffield United's Billy Sharp (15) has won more points from Championship goals scored this season than Villa's Albert Adomah (14).
    Fulham have won more points from losing positions this season than any other side in the division (13).



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43012809

 
Aston Villa sweating on fitness of key duo ahead of Fulham clash

Aston Villa could be without Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah for tomorrow's clash with Fulham, with the attacking duo struggling with injury ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage.

The club's official Twitter account (@AVFCOfficial) have moved to share an injury update ahead of tomorrow's clash, confirming that Grealish and Adomah could be unavailable to Steve Bruce.

No information on the duo's problems have been revealed, but Villa have confirmed that they will asses both players later today and judge whether they will be involved against Fulham.

Both have been key for Villa in recent weeks, producing fine performances against Birmingham City in last weekend's Second City derby, with Adomah on the scoresheet and Grealish putting in a Man of the Match contribution.

That victory last weekend moved Villa into second, with Bruce's side grasping control of the race for the second automatic promotion place.

Villa have won seven consecutive Championship fixtures to move ahead of the chasing pack, but this weekend come up against a Fulham side, who are also in fine form heading into this weekend's fixture.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side have won five of their last six fixtures, moving into the top-six.

The Verdict 

Without Grealish and Adomah, Villa's attack will look considerably weaker this weekend.

The duo have been magnificent in Villa's recent run, and Bruce will be concerned if he has to head to Craven Cottage without them.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/aston-villa-sweating-on-fitness-of-key-duo-ahead-of-fulham-clash/

 
'Automatic promotion push over' – Aston Villa fans disappointed with key update

Aston Villa have a great opportunity to stretch their lead in the promotion race this weekend, with Steve Bruce's side travelling to Craven Cottage to face an in-form Fulham.

A run of seven consecutive victories has moved Villa into second, with Bruce's side now in pole position for the second automatic promotion place heading into the final 15 fixtures of the season.

This weekend's clash with Fulham, who have won five of their last six, hands Villa an opportunity to stretch that lead, however, Bruce is faced with a number of key injury problems.

@AVFCOfficial have confirmed this morning that Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah are both doubts for the trip to London.

Grealish and Adomah have been key for Villa in recent weeks, with the attacking duo producing an impressive performance in last weekend's Second City derby.

As expected, the news on the duo's injury troubles haven't been well received by Villa's supporters...



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/automatic-promotion-push-over-aston-villa-fans-disappointed-with-key-update/

 
Aiming High

After donning black and white during a successful promotion charge last season, Aleksandar Mitrović hopes lightning can strike twice in three months' time.

The Newcastle United loanee helped the Magpies reach the top flight last term - and he's confident the Whites can follow suit in May.

When asked if Fulham can finish in the top two, his response was emphatic. "Of course, why not? In the next two weeks, we have really tough games against direct opponents and the gap between us is seven points.

"This is nothing. If we win most of the games, we have a big chance to get automatically promoted."


To read the full interview with Mitrović, in which he discusses growing up in Serbia, his days as a ballboy and his long-term admiration for Slaviša Jokanović, pick up a programme on Saturday.

Other highlights from the publication - named Programme Monthly's 'Championship Programme of the Season' - include:

    Chairman Shahid Khan discusses the January transfer window
    Slaviša Jokanović, Tom Cairney and Gordon Davies pen their latest columns
    Simon Morgan recalls a famous FA Cup win at Aston Villa
    Matt Targett takes our nine-dart challenge
    And Rodney Marsh talks us through a picture from his Fulham days


Priced £3.50, the 100-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/february/16/aleksandar-mitrovic-aston-villa-programme

 
Fulham v Aston Villa preview

(http://e2.365dm.com/18/01/16-9/20/skysports-tom-cairney-fulham_4206459.jpg?20180129170648)
Tom Cairney of Fulham

Fulham captain Tom Cairney could be in contention for a return to the starting line-up against in-form Aston Villa.

Cairney made his comeback from two matches out with a knee problem as a second-half substitute in last weekend's 1-1 draw at Bolton. Cottagers boss Slavisa Jokanovic must now decide whether to make changes, with his side having won four out of their last five Sky Bet Championship matches to cement their place in the top six.

Aleksandar Mitrovic is another in contention to come into the team, the Serbian forward having made a couple of substitute appearances since his deadline day loan move from Newcastle.

Aston Villa will monitor Albert Adomah ahead of the trip to west London. The Ghana winger, who scored in the 2-0 derby win over Birmingham last weekend, has been carrying a hamstring problem.

Australian Mile Jedinak will be hoping to retain his place in midfield ahead of Birkir Bjarnason, while on-loan Bournemouth striker Lewis Grabban should also feature again. Fit-again Gabriel Agbonlahor could also be back in the squad as Villa chase an eighth successive Championship win, but forward Jonathan Kodjia (ankle) and goalkeeper Jed Steer (shoulder) remain sidelined.

Opta stats
Fulham have lost just one of their last 11 home league games against the Villans (W5 D5), 2-0 defeat in the Premier League in January 2010.

Aston Villa haven't achieved a league double over the Cottagers since the 2009/10 season.

Fulham haven't won seven consecutive home league matches since a run of eight back in October 2000.

Only Sheffield United's Billy Sharp (15) has won more points thanks to his goals scored in the Championship this season than Aston Villa's Albert Adomah (14).

Fulham have won more points from losing positions this season than any other side in the division (13).

Aston Villa have won seven consecutive league matches for the first time since February 1990. The Villans last won eight league games in a row back in April 1975 under Ron Saunders when they won promotion to the top-flight.

Prutton's prediction

This should be a great battle between two of the form teams in the Sky Bet Championship right now, and arguably Aston Villa's biggest test for quite a while.

Steve Bruce's side have been excellent lately and momentum is really on their side at the moment. Fulham have been brilliant lately and it's a tough game to call, but I think Villa will just nab victory.

David Prutton predicts: 0-1 (9/1 with Sky Bet)



http://www.skysports.com/football/fulham-vs-a-villa/preview/374994

Lydia's Villa Preview
by Lydia on February 16, 2018

Hands up if you are nervous/excited/can't stop thinking about tomorrow? I'm sure I'm not the only one with my hand waving in the air. I get excited about every football match, but this one has brought back feelings on a deeper level, the realisation that we could be on the brink of a promotion run in. Tomorrow we kick off a run of six games, all against promotion rivals, so by 1700hrs on the 10th March, our promotion bid could be extremely strong, or it could be left in tatters. Obviously, there are still plenty of games after the Preston game on the 10th March, but I'd say that we need to be in contention by then. If we don't pick up points against the teams around us then we will be playing Championship football next season again, and most likely without our most prized assets.


Tomorrow's game is arguably the toughest that we will face, given the strength of Villa and their seven-game winning run. If we were to win, then we will be only four points behind Villa, currently in 2nd. I'd say that if we lose tomorrow then we are out of the race for the second automatic promotion spot while awin keeps us in the race, but even then it would be a stretch. The focus for now should be solidifying a top 6 finish and if after the next run of games it is in our sights to finish 2nd then we can adjust the target.

Aston Villa are currently very much on song, with seven league wins in a row. They last lost in the league on Boxing Day against Brentford at Griffin Park, but since then they have won every game, bar an FA Cup defeat to Peterborough, and have scored 16 goals along the way. They have plenty of fire power with Albert Adomah, Lewis Grabban, Scott Hogan and Jonathan Kodjia all able to find the back of the net while Robert Snodgrass, Jack Grealish and Conor Hourihane pull the strings in midfield. Their strength in the midfield is exceptional, but with our own midfield also very strong I'd say that whoever wins the midfield battle, wins the match.

With Fulham's left and right back so prone to attacking, we have to be very careful that we don't leave Ream and Kalas isolated. Our defensive game needs to be perfect tomorrow. Adomah has 14 goals this season in all competitions so someone will need to be on him like a wart sticker all day long. Kevin McDonald's role tomorrow will be to sit in front of the defence and nullify whatever attack comes his way. Don't be surprised if he doesn't come marauding forward as Villa are quick on the break, so we need him to hold back.

As strong as Villa are going forward, I fully believe that we have the attacking prowess to cause their aged and static defence a lot of problems. If Mitrovic is fit enough I'd love to see him given a go to terrorize Terry and Chester, but if not, a front three of Ryan Sessegnon, Abou Kamara and Lucas Piazon should cause enough headaches in there. I'd go for Kamara over Fonte as I think Kamara's strength and power would work better against a static defence than Fonte's silkiness. I like Fonte, but his size would play right into Terry and Chester's hands.

Above all tomorrow, we have to play our game. Villa are strong, yes, but they are also quite uninspiring for me. They don't really blow teams away, a 5-0 thumping of Bristol City aside. They won comfortably at Birmingham last weekend, but the Blues are one of the poorest sides I've seen this season, and there is no way Fulham will give them as much time on the ball. It's going to be tough, but Villa haven't won at Craven Cottage since 2010. To be perfectly honest, I draw would be a decent result but we have it in us to win.

#COYW



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/02/lydias-villa-preview/

Fulham vs Aston Villa preview: Can Aston Villa make the eight by beating Fulham?
It's time - a day of reckoning approaches for Aston Villa as they take on Fulham

It seems like Villa are batting 1000 right now. They can't miss anything chucked their way, and win after win seems to be piling up for Aston Villa.

Still, they've got some REALLY big hurdles to overcome before anything is guaranteed, we all know too well how fast things can change in this league. I simply can't believe I'm saying this, but Aston Villa have a chance to win EIGHT GAMES IN A ROW today.

However, a resilient Fulham side face them, and they might have one eye on second place themselves if they can continue climbing. They are running out of time though, and need to make a big statement.

What to know about Aston Villa
How good are Steve Bruce's men right now? Their pressing style of play suits them down to the ground. Villa are more than happy to give the ball up and let teams screw up on their own time. Stats? pfft. Give them xG, goals, assists and SOD your possession. Villa play direct and are lethal right now, making up for underperforming earlier in the season.

Are Villa overperforming right now? It's possible, but still - it brings a bit of needed balance to their season. This stability is nice!

Make no mistake - this is a must win game for Aston Villa who really need to build up as much of a gap as they can between themselves and the other pretenders to the 2nd place spot. Derby dropped points against Sheffield Wednesday, and Cardiff look to be back on track. A win is hugely important for Villa, not just because it's three points, but because it extends their lead over the top 6. A loss will condense the race for second place to uncomfortable size.

It's going to be a close game, both teams are really developing a style - so individual talent will win the day. I rate Villa in that aspect, they've got talent in spades.

That's all lead by Jack Grealish who made a statement to English football when he buried Birmingham City with a mature and commanding midfield performance underpinned by grace and resilience. Of course, Grealish is an injury doubt for the match. That is a problem.

My man to watch for this game is Scott Hogan. How did he not score against Blues? His intelligence is only second to his desire to be the man for his team. This is the kind of guy you'd want as a centre-back, with that attitude. But no, he'll be leading the line for Villa, and he MUST make the best of any chances that come his way. He's not called Scotty Goals for nothing, though.

What to know about Fulham
Fulham have really come back from the wilderness. After a rather insecure start to the season, Fulham have bounced into promotion contention, and seem to be a favourite for the playoff spots.

Make no mistake though, the pressure is on. Fulham know that they are capable of a meltdown. The type of which will end their season early. They deserve to be back in the Premier League, but out of the current top-six, who doesn't?

If Tom Cairney plays, expect him to be a danger. The real threat will be from Ryan Sessegnon, the wonderkid can instantly tear a team apart, and Fulham's patient style belies the crashing threat that this guy can bring. Ahmed Elmohamady will need to be on top form to contend with this young man.

Prediction
3-2, either way. It's going to be close, but which team scores that third goal? I couldn't even tell you.



https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/2018/2/16/17017566/fulham-vs-aston-villa-preview-can-aston-villa-make-the-eight-against-fulham

 
Key Aston Villa players in doubt for Fulham clash as Steve Bruce gives injury update

The Cottagers and Villa are the Championship's in form sides

Aston Villa might have to do without key duo Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah as they head to Craven Cottage searching for an eighth consecutive victory.

Fulham themselves have gone nine unbeaten ahead of the battle between promotion hopefuls.

The midfielders played as Villa beat Birmingham 2-0 last time out with Adomah grabbing a goal but both carried knocks and were substituted during the fixture.

Manager Steve Bruce said: "There's a doubt about Adomah and there's a doubt about Grealish unfortunately. We'll see how they both are later today."

Ghanaian Adomah is the Midlands side's top scorer this term with 14 goals while Grealish has been in good form since his return from a kidney injury.

Villa have little else in the way of injuries problems with Bruce having a full squad to pick from other than long term absentees Jonathan Kodjia (ankle) and Jed Steer (shoulder).



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/key-aston-villa-players-doubt-14298497

 
Villa fans react to Grealish and Adomah injuries

Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce has revealed that key duo Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah are doubts for the trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham on Saturday, and fans have gone into meltdown on Twitter.

Adomah was a goalscorer against Birmingham City as Villa ran out comfortable 2-0 winners in the Second City Derby last weekend, with Grealish providing the key pass for his goal.

Grealish was named man-of-the-match on the day after a commandeering performance in midfield, but as reported by the Birmingham Mail, the youngster is now a doubt for this weekend after picking up a knock.

Adomah was reportedly struggling with a hamstring injury during the second half of the Birmingham clash, and is also doubtful to face the Cottagers in a double blow.

"There's a doubt about Adomah and there's a doubt about Grealish unfortunately. We'll see how they both are later today," Bruce said on Thursday.

Villa are going in search of their eighth win in a row in the Championship, with the club now sitting in second place in the table after their amazing recent run.

Opponents Fulham are also in good form having won seven of their last nine games, but a disappointing draw to Bolton last time out halted their charge in it's tracks.

Fans have taken to Twitter to react to the injury news, and many are seriously worried about the duos' absence.



https://thisisfutbol.com/2018/02/twitter/villa-fans-react-to-grealish-and-adomah-injuries/

 
Aston Villa injury worry: Dynamic Duo may miss Fulham match
Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah to assessed Friday

The medical room that had mostly empty — now has welcomed two key members of the starting lineup — Albert Adomah and Jack Grealish. And no one is happy about it.

Sad.

The news about Adomah was not a surprise because the winger looked like he was not going to be able to finish the first half in the Blues match — but fought through it to a very impressive performance. Jack was subbed off late in the second half to a huge ovation. Apparently that may not have been the sole point though.

As we wait for a medical update — which the blog will post as soon as we get it — try not to let your mind wonder to the worst theories. Think positive thoughts — like the fact that no amputation is likely. See! Don't you feel better? (no, not really)

On-loan youngster Josh Onomah would likely be the replacement for Jack. Somewhere in Birmingham James Rushton is shouting Callum O'Hare's name — but based on Bruce's previous moves the Spurs player will get the call.

The left wing position has more options. It could give Bruce an answer to the debate of who to start between Mile Jedinak vs Birkir Bjarnason — BOTH! Bjarnason has at times played on the left side (along with most of the positions in the midfield). It certainly would not be a like-for-like switch but would give Bruce the opportunity to put both the players on the pitch — who have played well enough to be in the starting lineup. It would be a risky decision though — forcing the Icelandic man to once again change positions when he has settled into the holding/defense role so well.

Personally — I'd like to see André Green get the call. The young winger has missed most of the season with injury issues having not played in a first team match since September. He may not be healthy again though. He bagged two goals in a reserve match in January — but has not appeared in any matches since (at least to the best as I can tell because the coverage of U23 is not extensive). Green could slot right in and Villa could keep similar shape that has been so successful of late.

Other options include: Neil Taylor pushing up, Henri Lansbury playing wide, or throwing a striker out to the wing and hoping for the best (please not Gabby). Bruce could also decide — especially if both Jack and Albert miss out — to totally change the formation/tactics and try to catch Fulham off guard — one such example would be Onomah out left and two up top.

But for now — we wait and standby for hard news.



https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/2018/2/16/17019544/aston-villa-injury-worry-dynamic-duo-may-miss-fulham-match

 
Fulham face 'massive' test for Premier League promotion, says Matt Targett

(https://static.standard.co.uk/s3fs-public/thumbnails/image/2018/02/16/13/matttargett1602a.jpg?w968h681)
On Targett: The on-loan Southampton defender scored against Bolton last week Rex

Fulham play six of the top eight teams in the Championship in the space of three weeks — and Matt Targett believes this run will show if they can mount a serious push for automatic promotion.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side are fifth after going unbeaten in nine Championship matches and host second-placed Aston Villa on Saturday.

Fulham, who won five League games in a row before drawing at Bolton last weekend, travel to Bristol City next Wednesday before a home game against runaway leaders Wolves. They then play three more of their promotion rivals: Derby away, Sheffield United at home and Preston away.

Confidence is high at Craven Cottage and Targett says Fulham are ready to make a statement to the rest of the division as they bid to return to the top flight after a four-year absence.

"The next six games are massive against teams around us," said the on-loan Southampton defender. "I guess the run will decide where we end up. If we do well in that then I think we are going to be right up there. If we take a lot of points from these games it will send a massive statement out to the rest of the League that we are serious and we want to get back to the Premier League. It will be tough but it is exciting. Everyone here wants to give everything to get the club back into the Premier League."

Villa have won their last seven League games, thanks in part to the excellent form of Robert Snodgrass, with the on-loan West Ham winger scoring four goals in that run. Captain John Terry returned last month after breaking a metatarsal in November and will be playing in west London for the first time since leaving Chelsea last summer.

The game is the clash of the two form teams in the Championship and Targett says Fulham are looking forward to the challenge. He said: "On paper Villa have got a Premier League squad, so it will be a tough game. But we are in great form and are at home and we need to make that advantage count."

To purchase Fulham match tickets, visit: fulhamfc.com/tickets




https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-face-massive-test-for-premier-league-promotion-says-matt-targett-a3768176.html

 
3 Things Aston Villa Need To Do To Beat Fulham Away

And here we go again. Another match and another three things Aston Villa must do to beat our opposition.

This time, a tasty trip to Craven Cottage to extend our winning streak to eight on the trot, v Fulham (well, it would be v Fulham really wouldn`t it, what with me saying it`s at Craven Cottage and all!)

Shut up Fear, just get on with it...!

3 Things To Beat Fulham:

Silence Sessegnon (and then buy him in the summer!)

Ryan Sessegnon is certainly the man we need to silence.

He's only 17 but has scored 11 goals in 31 games this season from left wing (similar stats to our own Uncle Albert).

He's also just coming off the back of winning both the PFA Championship Player of the Month for January and also the EFL Championship Player of the Month for January.

Press Fulham

Press the high as Fulham always faff around at the back and play themselves into trouble.

If we play like we did v Blues, putting them constantly on the back foot, we`ve got a great chance.

Or as Villan57 delicately put it "Wait for them to cock up their tippy tappy stuff and pounce like Lions !"

Don`t get too cocky

Confidence is high. We just need to make sure - and Bruce will do this - confidence doesn`t turn into complacency.

Come on you Villa boys.

Any other things we need to do Vital Villans? What would your three be?




Read more: http://www.astonvilla.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=7524337#ixzz57LcKDkB8

Snoddy - A Major Influencer From Midfield v Fulham

So who would win, our midfielder or Fulham`s?

OURS of course!

I think Robert Snodgrass has been a revelation since coming to Villa Park, and I know I`m not alone.

There were talks of David Moyes wanting him back last January but that door was slammed shut very quickly. Just got to hope that Aston Villa get promoted and that we can buy him.

These stats won`t dissuade Moyes from wanting him back, but Snoddy didn`t exactly leave with nice comments from 'that' owner at West Ham and he seems to have settled at Villa very quickly.

It`s been amazing this season seeing goals from midfield, Adomah (12 in the league) has been on fire, but so has Snoddy, not only that but look at his assists. He seems to shoot from any angle, which must worry the goalkeepers greatly.

4 away from home. Maybe it 5 or 6 tomorrow v Fulham then Snoddy!



Read more: http://www.astonvilla.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=7524339#ixzz57LdUi2ff

 
Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic hails job done by Steve Bruce at Aston Villa ahead of crunch tie

Aston Villa are the form side in the division and the Fulham head coach has praised the job the former Manchester United boss has done this season

Slavisa Jokanovic has praised the job Steve Bruce has done at Aston Villa the two meet at Craven Cottage tomorrow in a crunch tie.

Fulham are currently seven points behind Villa, who occupy that final automatic promotion slot, and host Bruce's side with the aim of ending their winning run and closing that gap.

Bruce beat Jokanovic to the Manager of the Month award for January after both teams went through the month unbeaten and the Fulham head coach has spoken highly of his counterpart ahead of the game at Craven Cottage tomorrow.

He said: "He (Bruce) is good, it's a big club and they spend many money and they showed their ambition.

"They improve definitely when we compare this season with last season and at the end now they are in the best moment in the few years they are in the Championship.

"They play with confidence, are organised and strong and Steve Bruce is a coach with many experience in both highest category in English football, he has experience with being promoted with a Championship team and in general he's made a great job in this moment and it's fantastic for him."

When the sides met earlier in the season, Fulham were undone by set pieces, with John Terry rising highest to give Villa the lead in that game - one they went on to win 2-1.

It's been a weak point of Fulham's game all season, but Jokanovic has revealed his side have been working on them ahead of the game and have been looking at how they can deal with different situations.

He added: "We are always working, at the end they score out of set pieces but after seven/eight times where we give them chance to deliver the free kicks with dangerous players, they punished us with one of these and John Terry score the goal.

"They can be a danger for us in set pieces and can be dangerous in different situations, but for us we try and check everything and we are working to check all the solutions we can find in the game."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-boss-slavisa-jokanovic-hails-14300326

3 Things Fulham Need to do to beat Villa at Craven Cottage

This Saturday, the two teams with the best runs of form collide at Craven Cottage.

Aston Villa are in our neck of the woods looking to make it 8 Championship wins on the bounce, whilst Fulham will be looking to add to their tally of 6 consecutive wins on home soil.

As they say in Boxing, somebody`s '0` will have to go!

But what do Fulham need to do to see the Villa travelling support go home with their tails between their legs?

Here are 3 things we, here at Vital Fulham believe are essential to grab the win.

1 - Stop Jack Grealish

By hook or by crook, Fulham have to stop the young midfielder from controlling the game from his middle of the pitch role. Grealish has been revitalised this season after a dip in form. Last week, against Birmingham City in some second-rate derby, he was head and shoulders above everybody else on the pitch. Stop Grealish and half the battle will be won!

2 - Pressurise John Terry

At 37-years-of-age Terry`s not the player he was, but what he lacks in mobility he makes up for with his reading of the game. But if our strikers can get up close to the former England captain, who won a few trophies for that lot down the road, he won`t be able to have the time on the ball he likes, pressure equals mistakes and heralds a Fulham success.

3 - Let Sessegnon do the Business

The most talented teenager this country has produced for many-a-year, is in great form. With the club having held off any advances, from bigger clubs, in the January transfer window, the teenage has stepped up to produce the goods with a raft of goals. Let Ryan roam that left-flank and let his pace and skills un-nerve an ageing Aston Villa defence.

So, there`s the plan, its as easy as 1-2-3!

COYW`s



Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=521618#ixzz57LgINK5M

 
Villa Tickets Extremely Limited

With Matchday Hospitality packages now SOLD OUT, only a very limited number of tickets remain for Saturday's Sky Bet Championship match against Aston Villa.

Unbeaten in nine league games, the Whites will be up against an in-form Villa who climbed up to second place last weekend.

Tickets start from £15 for juniors and £35 for adults, and are available to Season Ticket Holders, Members and supporters with a Previous Booking History.

Supporters are advised that this fixture is all-ticket, with no sales on matchday, - don't delay secure your seat online, by telephone on 0203 871 0810 (opt 1) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

COYW!



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/february/16/villa-tickets-limited

 
Jokanovic reveals Fulham approach to crunch clash with Aston Villa

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic will be looking for his side to make it ten Championship games unbeaten when his side host Aston Villa on Saturday in the battle of the league's two form sides.

Villa's winning run, which currently stand at seven league matches, has propelled them in the automatic promotion spots while the Cottagers have risen up to fifth after putting their early-season inconsistency behind them.

Fulham's passing game has taken a while to click both this season and last time around but both times it has, they have gone on a hot run of form – although tomorrow's game will be a major test for Jokanovic's players.

He has revealed how his side will approach the game, speaking to the Fulham official website, he said: "We are going to push strongly to put them under stress, to do damage to them, and win the game. All teams have weaknesses.

"We are under pressure to perform well and show our best performance in front of our supporters, and do everything to win three points.

"We are not under any pressure, they are under pressure. We are chasing them and the teams that are in front of us. They could be one of the rivals for an important target for us. We have the chance to win the three points."

The Verdict

There is absolutely no point in Fulham doing anything other than persisting with the attractive, attacking football that has got them where they are now.

They are always better when they're on the front foot. I'm going to sit on the fence for this one and say it'll be a score draw.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/jokanovic-reveals-fulham-approach-to-crunch-clash-with-aston-villa/

 
Jokanovic delivers Fulham player update fans will have been wondering about

Fulham certainly caught everyone by surprise late on in last month's transfer window as they signed Aleksandar Mitrovic on loan from Fulham.

The men from Craven Cottage stole in late on on Deadline Day to get the attacker into the club after it looked as though he might be on the way to Belgium.

We shouldn't have been surprised, of course, with the Lilywhites showing how capable they are of sneaking up with their run to the top six last year and a similar process going on at the moment.

Since, though, we haven't seen a lot of the forward in his new side's colours and fans must be wondering exactly when he is going to start playing more for their club.

It looks as though it won't be long now, though, with manager Slavisa Jokanovic saying Mitrovic is going to be a part of his plans soon – as per the club's official Twitter account:

The Verdict

Some exciting news for Fulham fans, then, and it remains to be seen exactly what happens with Mitrovic in the coming weeks.

It might not be long now, though, until we see him leading the line for the men from Craven Cottage.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/jokanovic-delivers-fulham-player-update-fans-will-have-been-wondering-about/

 
Marcus Bettinelli: People don't give Fulham enough credit for dragging ourselves back into contention

The side were languishing in 17th place in November, but a run of two losses in 15 games has seen them haul themselves into fifth ahead of tomorrow's game with Aston Villa

It's December and Fulham are languishing at the wrong end of the table - a 3-1 defeat at Griffin Park to Brentford is the latest result to go against the side.

The Whites are 15th with two wins in their past nine games and a repeat of the previous season is looking less and less likely as the weeks go by.

But fast forward to February, and a run of seven wins in 11 games, with just one loss, has seen the Cottagers shoot to fifth place with one eye on the last automatic promotion spot held by tomorrow's opponents, Aston Villa.

It would be unfair to lay the success of that period on the door of Marcus Bettinelli, but the return of the 25-year-old to the Fulham goalmouth has coincided with that stunning run of form that has seen the team go from mid-table nothingness to a potential Premier League team next season.

While what has changed in the side from one that was struggling in November to one that is flying now is the talk of the town, Bettinelli doesn't think his Fulham side have been given the credit they deserve for a run that has seen them lose just twice in 15 games.

"We knew the start wasn't great and we were trying to find our form and I think a lot of people think it's easy when you go from being in a Play-off position last season like we was," he said.

"I think you can see this season, Sheffield Wednesday and Reading, they were two teams in the play-offs last season, two teams that were there the whole way through probably and this season it seems like a totally different challenge for them.

"It seems like the challenge for them is to stay in the league rather than get promoted so I think people don't realise how hard it is to keep that form and have another promotion push.

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article13059130.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/GettyImages-683905910.jpg)
One of our own: Marcus Bettinelli (Image: Harry Trump/Getty Images)

"A lot of people haven't given us credit so far in terms of what we've done and where we've got to.

"In November we were 17th, and to come from there to where we are now is a huge, huge pat on the back for us because that's not easy, this league isn't easy, every game is tough.

"It showed that last week away at Bolton, they dug deep and got a good result against us but we're confident going into every game, we'll go into tomorrow full of confidence against a really good side and I'm sure they'll come with loads of confidence too.

"Our job tomorrow is to play our football, not get dragged into the importance of the game or position in the league, it's more about us playing our football, going out there and playing our stuff and try and get the win."

Last season, Fulham left a promotion push late, pipping Leeds United to a spot on the second last day of the season.

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article12966285.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/GettyImages-669410818.jpg)
Over the line: Marcus Bettinelli (Image: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

This year, however, they've broken into that top six a lot earlier, meaning they're now there to be shot out by clubs looking to imitate what the Cottagers managed last season and haul in one of the current teams occupying those four spots.

A lot of people are wondering whether second place is now the target for Fulham, but Bettinelli insists the side are well aware of what is around them as they hunt Villa and second.

He added: "As much as we have one eye on second place, of course we have to be aware of what's coming behind us.

"We were a team that was out of it last season and chasing the teams, I think Leeds were in it nearly the whole season and just towards the end they fell out of it.

"We're well aware of the teams chasing us and we're aware of how close second is as well, and that's great.

"We put ourselves in this position, football is never easy, Wolves have made the league look completely easy this season but very rarely does a team do that and that's credit to them and what they've done.

"For everyone else, you have a good start, a couple bad games and I think everyone around that top six other than Wolves have had that at some point this season.

"Villa are on a great run at the moment and they've kind of been similar to us in the way in the last couple of months they've won massive games and kept clean sheets.

"They're on a great run and so are we, I think the last time we lost was Sunderland away and since then we've drawn two.

"We're on a great run ourselves and we just have to keep pushing, take it game by game starting with tomorrow and seeing where it goes."

In his press conferences, Slavisa Jokanovic insists that he's not thinking about the massive period of games Fulham have coming up, a run that includes Wolves and Derby, but is instead taking it game by game.

It's hard to believe, though, that there isn't any thought on those six games and what it could mean for the season - win them and Fulham are staring automatic promotion in the face.

And Bettinelli agrees that it's difficult not to give those fixtures thought, especially after he considers his side have given themselves a great chance to do "something really special this season".

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14281831.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/PBP_SAH_WL180219_027JPG.jpg)
(Image: Paul Burgman)

He said: "It is hard, but these fixtures have been in place for a long time and we all knew at some point this run of games was going to come.

"Personally, I'd much rather be facing these run of games now with the position we're in the league now rather than where we were back in November.

"We've given ourselves a great chance to do something really special this season, we know the next five games are key to what we'll do this season, if we're going to push on and have a great chance for promotion or if we're going to not get into the Play-offs and end in mid-table.

"That's the reality of it, I'm sure after these six games we'll have a good idea where we are and where we stand.

"If we do lose tomorrow, it can't be a case of 'that's our season done' because that's not how it will be - we'll deal with the result tomorrow but we're confident going into the game, we've not lost in a while and neither have they and I'm sure it will be a great game."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/marcus-bettinelli-people-dont-give-14301079

Get your chequebooks out – What can Fulham learn from Wolves going into the crucial part of the season?

This weekend, Slavisa Jokanovic and Nuno Espirito Santo square up in an all mighty promotion clash that promises to be a game to remember. Wolves are currently 12 points clear at the top of the table and have shown no signs of being about to slip up in a way that would stop their march to the title, and to the Premier League.

Fulham themselves are on a brilliant run and have hauled themselves into playoff contention and Craven Cottage is a difficult ground to play at. So Fulham will be hoping that they can play on these advantages to turn the match in their favour.

Wolves have been all-conquering this season, and have some of the best players in the Championship. Clubs throughout the league will be looking to copy their blueprint in the future but what can teams like Fulham learn from Nuno Espirito Santo's side?

First of all, the thing that sets Wolves apart is their goal difference – a massive 33 at this stage. Very simply, they have scored the most goals and conceded the least. John Ruddy and his back line have kept 17 clean sheets, which is the most in the league.

By contrast, Fulham have only collected 7, and while the front line of Fulham can be frightening at times, the defence is not as solid as it is required to be. In the Championship, margins like this are the difference between 1st and 5th where Fulham currently sit. The performance levels of the Wolves defenders are always of an incredibly high level – Boly, Coady and Bennett hate to concede and they very rarely do.

Fulham are currently on an excellent run where they haven't lost in the league since the middle of December but they did go 6 games without a win earlier in the season and it appeared at that stage that Jokanovic may be out of a job. The consistency with which Wolves have been producing results must be the benchmark for all teams in this league.

When this team loses, they bounce back straightaway. Many reports from players within the camp say that the team know each other so well that when they lose there isn't a 'blame game' to determine who was at fault, instead they just pick themselves up and put it right in the next game.

By contrast, Fulham have only collected 7, and while the front line of Fulham can be frightening at times, the defence is not as solid as it is required to be. In the Championship, margins like this are the difference between 1st and 5th where Fulham currently sit. The performance levels of the Wolves defenders are always of an incredibly high level – Boly, Coady and Bennett hate to concede and they very rarely do.

Fulham are currently on an excellent run where they haven't lost in the league since the middle of December but they did go 6 games without a win earlier in the season and it appeared at that stage that Jokanovic may be out of a job. The consistency with which Wolves have been producing results must be the benchmark for all teams in this league.

When this team loses, they bounce back straightaway. Many reports from players within the camp say that the team know each other so well that when they lose there isn't a 'blame game' to determine who was at fault, instead they just pick themselves up and put it right in the next game.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/02/17/let-out-your-cheque-books-what-can-fulham-learn-from-wolves-going-into-the-crucial-part-of-the-season/

 
"We've Achieved Nothing Yet" Stresses Bruce as Villa Look to Banish Craven Cottage Curse

The Villa Appetiser: Fulham v Aston Villa 2018

After a great performance in the derby, it's a different kind of fixture for Villa to contend with – at a ground we never really do well at.

Still, the positive momentum is with Villa at the moment, and while Fulham are enjoying an excellent run of form too, it's a game we need to be taking something from if we are to achieve our ultimate goal of automatic promotion.

Can we get our 8th consecutive league win at an unlikely venue?

Form

FULHAM

5th in the league table with the 7th best home record.

Last five matches at home: W 5

VILLA

2nd in league table with 6th best away record.

Last five matches away: W 3, L 2

Jokanovic on Villa/Bruce

"He (Bruce) is good, it's a big club and they spend many money and they showed their ambition.

"They improve definitely when we compare this season with last season and at the end now they are in the best moment in the few years they are in the Championship.

"They play with confidence, are organised and strong and Steve Bruce is a coach with many experience in both highest category in English football, he has experience with being promoted with a Championship team and in general he's made a great job in this moment and it's fantastic for him."

"We are always working, at the end they score out of set pieces but after seven/eight times where we give them chance to deliver the free kicks with dangerous players, they punished us with one of these and John Terry score the goal.

"They can be a danger for us in set pieces and can be dangerous in different situations, but for us we try and check everything and we are working to check all the solutions we can find in the game."

Bruce on Blues victory

"There's nothing quite like beating your local rivals. It was the manner of it for me, the level of performance that we got to in a big game. We played very very well on the day.

"When you analyse it back it was arguably one of our better performances of the season, in the context of the game.

"It's gone, it was nice to enjoy it and great for the supporters. It's another three points on the road to the target we want to achieve."

and on Fulham

"It's going to be another tough game tomorrow in a different way because Fulham are a very very good football side. Very very good, who I tipped at the start of the season that are the ones we might have to beat.

"In this particular moment they're going very well, got some talented players. So it should be a really cracking game down there tomorrow."

and on promotion chances

"Slowly but surely we hope that we're turning the tide a little bit.

"We've achieved nothing yet. We're not going to get carried away just because we've won the derby.

"We've got to be bigger and better than that. We've given ourselves an outstanding chance.

"We've got 15 games to go.

"We haven't done anything yet, if we think we're Real Madrid, we're not.

"We've just got to make sure we keep producing the level of performance that we've hit over the heights.

"After an awful start consistency wise, we're looking a very decent team, which is important at this particular time in the season."

Memory Match

28th December 2005 – Fulham 3 Aston Villa 3

This six goal thriller saw Villa repeatedly fight back from losing positions to salvage a point. Luke Moore made it 1-1 after an opening goal from Brian McBride but Fulham soon regained their advantage. At 2-1 down in the 60th minute, Ridgewell equalised only for McBride to quickly score a second. Then, in the 76th minute, it was Ridgewell (of all people) who scored again to make it 3-3. Phew!

One to Watch

Aleksandar Mitrović – Signed last month on loan, the striker won promotion with Newcastle last season.

    fulham have only lost one of their last 11 home league games against Villa

Facts to Sweep Under the Carpet

There's always a certain stadium that your team never does well at, and for Villa, out of all the Championship grounds, it's probably Craven Cottage.

Saturday's opponents have only lost one of their last 11 home league games against Villa (a 2-0 loss in 2010), so the history books certainly aren't kind in this instance.

Things tend to be better when we face Fulham at Villa Park, but the records tell us that we've not achieved a league double over Fulham since the 2009-10 season.

Villa's momentum could be brought to a halt by worrying injury news, and it seems Grealish and Adomah are doubts for this weekend's game. It was those players who made the difference against Birmingham City, so it will be tough to find two temporary replacements.

Adomah's goalscoring form this season has put him up there in terms of the overall Championship records, and only Sheffield United's Billy Sharp has won more points from goals scored this season than King Albert!

We've shown good discipline and concentration in recent matches and this will need to continue on Saturday – Jokanovic's men have won more points from losing positions than any other side in the league...

On a nine-match unbeaten league run, Fulham are a tough prospect with their own ambitions of promotion.

If that wasn't enough, Fulham have won six home games in a row...

    "They play with confidence, are organised and strong" – jokanovic ON VILLA

Why Villa Have Got This Game in the Bag

It's not too hard to think of reasons why a win could be possible given our tremendous run of form.

As a Villa fan it's almost strange to write about optimism but our recent performances suggest the tide has truly turned for Villa's fortunes.

Fulham's home run is impressive, but a seventh home win on the trot would be the first time that's happened since 2000.

On that subject, not only was our win against Birmingham City important for bragging rights, it marked our 7th consecutive victory – something we hadn't achieved since the 1990's.

You have to go back even further to find the last time we won EIGHT in a row.

That was in the 1974-75 season with Ron Saunders in charge, a season which ended with promotion back to the top flight, appropriately enough.

With Derby's mid-week defeat, we have a chance to tighten our grip on 2nd place, and need to be mindful of Cardiff who also keep getting results.

Hopefully we can overcome our Craven Cottage troubles for the first time in a while.

UTV.



https://www.myoldmansaid.com/weve-achieved-nothing-yet-stresses-bruce-as-villa-look-to-banish-craven-cottage-curse/

 
Bruce on Fulham: The toughest test of this run

Steve Bruce says today's fixture against Fulham provides the biggest threat yet to our winning run.

We've been flying throughout 2018 so far, registering seven consecutive Sky Bet Championship wins to propel ourselves to second in the table.

But Fulham have been on a surge themselves, climbing to fifth after a run of five victories in six matches.

And Bruce, who backed Fulham to challenge at the beginning of the season, says they pose the biggest obstacle to our current form.

He said: "It's possibly the biggest test of 2018 so far.

"I'm expecting a very difficult game. Fulham are a very good side.

"I tipped at the start of the season that they were the ones we might have to beat to get where we want to be.

"At this particular moment, they're going very well.

"They've got talented players. It should be a cracking game."

Bruce also hopes to see our away formula that has been so successful of late come off again, with us having taken nine points, scored three and conceded none.

The same again would see us record four consecutive away clean sheets in league competition for the first time since September 1985.

He added: "It's worked and they've been classic away performances, but I'd rather win 2-0 or 3-0 if you offered it to me.

"Away from home especially, if you can rely on your defenders the way we can, then our forward-thinking players are always in with a chance of scoring a goal and winning it for us.

"Hopefully we can do that again. We've got to make sure we keep hitting the levels of performance that we have done in the last few months."



https://www.avfc.co.uk/News/2018/02/16/bruce-on-fulham-our-toughest-test-of-this-run

 
Merson predicts Fulham v Villa

Paul Merson shared that he thought Aston Villa were one of the best teams in the Championship but predicted that they would lose to Fulham.

The Villans have won their last seven league games in a row to sit second in the table ahead of playing Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

"They've been absolutely outstanding, I've just gone for Fulham due to home advantage, but I think Villa will take a draw," said Merson in his Sky Sports Super Six predictions.

"Hard game Fulham away, they're playing well."

The pundit was then asked whether Saturday's game was between two of the best sides in the league, and Merson revealed that he rated both sides highly.

"After Wolves, I would say so," stated the pundit.

The Villans won the first league meeting between the sides 2-1 at Villa Park earlier in the season, with John Terry and Albert Adomah scoring for Steve Bruce's side.

OPINION

Aston Villa have been on an unbelievable run as of late, but all good things must come to an end. Fulham may have failed to beat Bolton in their last league outing, but the Cottagers have been in impressive form recently. Bruce confirmed ahead of Saturday's game that Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah were both likely to miss the match due to injury. Without the talented duo the Villans will struggle to cope with an in-form Fulham. If at least one of the pair is able to feature in the game, it might see Aston Villa scrape a draw if they're lucky.



https://thisisfutbol.com/2018/02/blogs/championship/merson-predicts-fulham-v-villa/

Three Players to Watch: Matchday 32 vs. Aston Villa
Can Fulham continue their winning ways against the hottest team in the Championship?

So Fulham was introduced to a foreign concept last Saturday. It was called a draw: an event in which two teams totaled the same number of goals at the end of a game of football. The good guys didn't score more than the other, but most importantly, nor did they score less. Therefore, Fulham stayed where they were in the Championship table. Better yet, they came on strong in the last 15 minutes of the game and won the process battle 1.5-0.8. That last portion of the sentence shouldn't matter at all as it's the actual goal counts and the results that matter. But at the end of the day, Fulham are still a good side in a rich vein of form at the right time.

If you really want to get a true handle on their recent success, don't just look at their unbeaten January. Look at when they started to put any form a run together towards now and you'll see that the boys from Southwest London improved dramatically since their crazy 5-4 win over Sheffield United. Since then, Ryan Sessegnon has been the prospect of the future coming from the second tier of England and Fulham are now the fourth best team, from an analytical standpoint, behind Wolves, Cardiff City, and Brentford. Most importantly, Fulham's expected goal counts almost match their actual output throughout the entire campaign.

Now you can argue that the club has been quite lucky with their finishing as of late. Since the Sheffield United game, Fulham has scored 33 goals in 14 games. That is well past the 24.7 expected goals they have accumulated during that span, but that is still quite a respectable total. In fact, if you transpose that rate throughout the whole 2017/18 campaign, Fulham would actually have a season-long total of 54.7 expected goals instead of their 47.8. That brand new total would be the best in the entire Championship. So yeah, Fulham are fine when it comes to their process because even their worse case scenario means that they should be able to terrorize every opponent in the remainder of their fixture list.

On the other side, you have an Aston Villa side that is also on a strong run of form. They have won seven in a row and have outscored the opposition an astounding 16-3. However, expected goals will tell you that Villa should have only outscored everyone 8.6-7.0. Almost all of that luck from this hot streak can be encapsulated with how much they have had this entire season. Like Fulham though, this isn't so much to say that luck was the sole reason for their achievements more than luck is needed to keep a winning streak going to dizzying heights.

After all, Villa is the eighth best team in attack and the fifth best team in defense based off of their season-long expected goal totals. Those high marks make them one of the most well-rounded clubs in England's second tier and they will be quite difficult to stop. Add in Fulham's rankings in attack and defense of third and ninth best in the league, respectively, and you have yourself a great matchup at Craven Cottage.

But first, let's take a look at Villa's players to look out for the most.

Robert Snodgrass

First up, we go to a Premier League veteran that is not resting on his laurels. The 30-year old certainly wants to return to England's top flight one more time and help guide a once-famous club back to where it belongs. With Snodgrass's consistent rate of 2.16 chances created per 90 minutes, no Villa starter will be more dangerous with the ball at his feet. Thanks to a multi-dimensional attack, his assist rate of 0.39 per 90 minutes are the highest it has been since his data has been tracked by whoscored. It also helps that his shooting has been much more lethal now that he has other teammates that can make opposing defenders and goalkeepers sweat.

Albert Adomah

Before this campaign started, you would have thought that Jonathan Kodjia would be leading Aston Villa's line and the goalscoring charts in the league. Then, he has been dealing with ankle issues all year to the point where he has only played in four league games. Enter Albert Adomah: a former Ghana International who is 30 and hasn't reach double digits in goals since 2013/14. This particular campaign is almost a rich man's version of what we are witnessing four years ago.

His shot rate struggles mightily to get above 1.7 per 90 minutes, but his accuracy forces goalkeepers to respect his shot. That is why his goal conversion rate of 25.0% has to be respected. No his career conversion rate of 12.2% proves that this feel-good story could all come to an end very soon. Still, Villa has needed a wide man that can take on people on the dribble and track back defensively and Adomah has more than done that. In fact, Adomah leads all Villa players with 89 defensive contributions this season.

Jack Grealish
All data from whoscored.com

---

Lastly, we go towards looking at a controversial youngster that looks like he has finally come good and looks to be living up to his billing. It's quite amazing to think that Jack Grealish is 22 years old, but that's how far both the attacking midfielder and Villa have fallen over the years. Instead of partying till the clock strikes dawn at a local club near you, the now-England youth international has decided to party on the pitch and has shone to spray some good passes all over the pitch. Along with Snodgrass and Adomah, this midfield triumvirate, plus Conor Hourihane is the most dangerous part of Villa's XI and for Bruce to find a way to implement all of them with their specific skill sets is what has led to the club's current run of form.

It will be fascinating what comes of Graelish as a shooter because if he were to ever pick that up, his skill-set will match that of a modern day attacking wide player. Until then, he has the look of an old-age winger with a good cross. His style can work, but only if he plays in the right system. Until then, there's still more room to grow for Jack Grealish. He's just finally allowing himself to do so after being in the limelight for so long.


https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/2/17/17019368/three-players-to-watch-matchday-32-vs-aston-villa

Defensive midfield remains the big question as Aston Villa take on Fulham
Despite some potentially key injuries, the DM position is important to Villa

With a satisfying win over the Bluenoses! Villa fans would be forgiven for feeling satisfied with this team right now. The next match against Fulham, however means a lot more to the club's promotion hunt. A win over an in-form, exciting and recently bolstered Fulham FC to not only maintains momentum but keeps pressure on Cardiff and Derby while signalling to promotion rivals that Villa are the form team of the Championship. A draw opens the door and a loss would signal weakness.

With this Villa side seemingly almost set barring injuries, (take note of Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah) there is one position left which remains unlocked, the DM role. One thing that we know about Steve Bruce is that when he is certain of his players in a system that's working, is that he only adjusts his starting line up to the opposition - he's flexible. In Mile Jedinak and Birkir Bjarnason (Whelan as backup), Steve Bruce has capable options to guard his defensive line. So, out of the pair, who is better to face Fulham?

Who's at DM?

Looking at the 5 last matches Bruce has favoured Birkir Bjarnason, he's defensively solid, a strong passer and capable of getting forward to contribute to attacks. Bjarnason has proved these qualities recently in burying lower table opposition at home in Barnsley and Burton while showing defensive solidarity away in close wins against Forest and Sheffield United. He's also much more mobile than Jedinak, but Jedinak offers a point of difference in his defensive characteristics, his ability to marshal defenders/midfielders and the ability make jail breaking tackles/intercepts which turn quickly into counter attacks. He's a shutdown player

So what about Fulham?

Most recently Jedinak got the nod over Bjarnason and battled successfully with the 6"4 Sam Gallagher with David Davis sitting behind, validating Bruce's choice. Fulham are not Birmingham City though and the differences are clear. While Birmingham City offer some danger out wide, strong defensive tracking back from Villa's flank players nullified this danger leaving Gallagher/Davis to compete with Jedinak and the defensive line. Fulham offer other threats despite lining up in the same 4-2-3-1 formation as Birmingham. Fonte/Johansen offer a similarity to Gallagher/Davis despite Rui Fonte being Bjarnason's height. Fulham have options in the middle with Oliver Norwood or another option to dropping Johansen back to CM and sitting Tom Cairney behind the striker in the hole. All are capable defensively capable and float forward getting involved in attacks similarly to how Conor Hourihane operates.

Where things get really interesting is out on the flanks, Fulham have a slight favourability to attack from the left with the exciting Ryan Sessegnon (should have been snapped up in January) and recent loanee Matt Targett offering pace/aggression down the left, both have Premier League quality, but like Albert Adomah, Sessegnon is likely to cut inside and shoot or put crosses in from the byline. Ahmed Elmohamady should hang back with Robert Snodgrass forced to track back and the pair will require support from the central midfield in order to get back and defend on the break. On the right Lucas Piazon can cause trouble, but Ryan Fredericks is Fulham's leading goal-maker at right back with 7 assists and offers more of a threat in delivery.

Conclusion

Fulham's versatility in attack, similar to Villa's, is the team's strength and Villa are likely to need versatility in front of the defence to cover centrally and out wide, especially on the left. Despite Jedinak's strong defensive characteristics and aerial excellence, for me Bjarnason's physical attributes, range of passing and ability to play/defend wide give him the edge. Don't be surprised though if we see the glorious beard of the Jedinak gracing Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon!




https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/2018/2/17/17022646/defensive-midfield-remains-the-big-question-as-aston-villa-take-on-fulham

 
Impressive Fulham reveal will be a major worry for Aston Villa

The standout fixture in the Sky Bet Championship this weekend is undoubtedly Fulham's clash with Aston Villa at Craven Cottage, where two of the division's promotion hopefuls will be going up against each other.

Fulham have won five of their last six Championship fixtures to storm into the play-offs, whilst Villa are the form team in the country right now, with Steve Bruce's side winning their last seven, moving into second and grasping hold of the second automatic promotion place with 15 fixtures of the season remaining.

This weekend's clash marks Slavisa Jokanovic's 100th league game in-charge of Fulham, according to Goodbrand Stats (@StatsChristian), who has also taken a look at a breakdown of results at Craven Cottage under his previous 99 fixtures.

Jokanovic has won 44 of those 99 fixtures, drawing on 30 occasions and losing just 27 times, leaving the Serbian with an impressive league record during his time at Craven Cottage.

It has also been highlighted Fulham's impressive home form in recent weeks, which has been the backbone to their recent surge towards the top-six.

Fulham have won their last six fixtures at Craven Cottage.

The Verdict 

It should be an entertaining contest at Craven Cottage this afternoon, with both sides holding promotion ambitions this season.

Fulham's record under Jokanovic is extremely impressive, but more worrying for Villa is the form that they have shown at Craven Cottage in recent weeks, which highlights the task at hand today.

Villa are on a good run of form, but today is the biggest test Steve Bruce's side have faced.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/impressive-fulham-reveal-will-be-a-major-worry-for-aston-villa/

 
Fulham v Villa – Preview

Fulham vs Aston Villa
Sky Bet Championship
15.00 – Saturday, 17th February 2018
Craven Cottage, London.

Aston Villa will head down to the Capital today to take on an in-form Fulham side at Craven Cottage today in the Sky Bet Championship.

Steve Bruce has challenged his side to do everything they can to catch runaway leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers so he will hope they can continue their run of good form. Villa has won their last seven league games, scoring 15 and conceding just 3 in the process.

Slaviša Jokanović's teams form is not to be sniffed at as they have done their usual second half of the season push for a playoff position by winning 7 of their last 9 league games.

Villa finds themselves sitting second in the division just a point ahead of both Derby and Cardiff while Fulham sits 5th, three points clear of 7th placed Preston.

TEAM NEWS

Bruce revealed in his press conference yesterday that both Albert Adomah and Jack Grealish are doubts for our trip to Craven Cottage. Both were substituted in the 2-0 win over Birmingham.

Otherwise, we have a fully fit squad to pick from apart from the long-term injuries.

The home side is hoping that captain Tom Crainey will return from injury. He has missed their last two games with a knee injury.

On-loan Newcastle striker Aleksander Mitrovic will be pushing for his first start also following a few substitute appearances.

STATISTICS

    Aston Villa hasn't achieved a league double over Fulham since 2009-10.
    Fulham has won more games from losing positions than any other team in the division (13).
    If Villa wins today, the would have won 8 games on the trot for the first time since 1975.
    Fulham have lost just one of their last eleven home league games (W5, D5)

TICKET INFORMATION

Once again Aston Villa has sold their full allocation and it is believed they have the majority of the neutral zone so between 6,000-7,000 fans are expected to travel.

LIVE MATCH CHAT

Can't make the game? Well, why not discuss the game on our Aston Villa forums with fellow Villa supporters.

PREDICTIONS

David Prutton: Fulham 0-1 Aston Villa
Larry-AV: Fulham 1-2 Aston Villa
Martin Crispin: Fulham 0-3 Aston Villa



http://www.avillafan.com/27770/fulham-v-villa-preview/

 
Preston North End Away Tickets

Tickets for Fulham's match against Preston North End on Saturday 10th March (3pm) are now on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members.

The Whites travel to Lancashire with advance tickets priced at £24 for adults, £16 for over 65s and £15 for young adults and students. Supporters can view the full pricing table here.

Follow Fulham Away with tickets released on General Sale from 10am on Wednesday 21st February.

Secure your seat at Deepdale today online, by telephone on 0203 871 0810 (Opt 1) or in person at the Fulham Tickets Office.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/february/17/preston-away-on-sale

 
Aston Villa team news: Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah latest ahead of Fulham clash

Aston Villa team news includes updates on key pair ahead of Fulham

Aston Villa have concerns about key pair Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah ahead of today's crunch promotion clash with Fulham.

In-form Villa head to the capital to take on Slavisa Jokanovic's Fulham looking to win eight successive league games for the first time since 1975.

But they may be without two of their star performers with Grealish and Adomah carrying knocks.

Adomah was struggling with a hamstring problem midway through the Second City derby but recovered to fire in the decisive first against Birmingham City.

Grealish is also carrying a slight calf problem and Bruce confirmed both players will be assessed ahead of the match at Craven Cottage.

He said: "There's a doubt about Adomah and there's a doubt about Grealish unfortunately. We'll see how they both are later today."

Adomah is Villa's top scorer this season with 14 goals while Grealish has been inspirational since his return from a freak kidney injury.

Villa have an otherwise fully fit squad with just long term absentees Jonathan Kodjia (ankle) and Jed Steer (shoulder) on the sidelines.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/adomah-grealish-injury-update-villa-14297680

 
Key Change In Midfield? Predicted 4-1-4-1 Aston Villa Lineup To Face Fulham

Aston Villa are unarguably one of the favourites to clinch a ticket for promotion to the Premier League. Under the tutelage of Steve Bruce, the Villans have really dazzled this season and are currently placed at the 2nd spot in the Championship table with 59 points to their name from 31 league encounters.

On Saturday, they are due to make a trip to the Craven Cottage to face Fulham in their next league fixture. Jonathan Kodjia and Jed Steer are out injured, but Gabriel Agbonlahor and Mile Jedinak are fit to feature. Here is how we expect Bruce to roll out his starting line-up against Slavisa Jokanovic's troops.

Goalkeeper

Sam Johnstone is expected to start between the sticks once again for the Lions. The 24-year-old custodian has mustered a fine season so far in the Championship, having notched up 14 clean sheets from 31 games and has been one of the main reasons for Villa's form this season.

Defence

John Terry and James Chester are expected to be chalked once again at the heart of Aston Villa's defence. Terry and Chester have really been able to inject a lot of resilience at the back and have worked really well together and it is highly unlikely that we would see Bruce trifling with a proven chemistry.

From the right-back slot, Ahmed Elmohamady is expected to showcase his industry and on the other side, Bruce will select Alan Hutton. The Lions have garnered 5 clean sheets in their last 7 league fixtures and Bruce's defensive line would not be bereft of confidence against the Cottagers.

Midfield

Birkir Bjarnason is anticipated to operate as a deep-lying holding midfielder to cushion the backline, having performed brilliantly in the recent games. Ahead of him, Jack Grealish and Conor Hourihane are looking all set to operate right from the very beginning.

Hourihane and Grealish have the calibre to not only dictate the tempo of the game from the middle of the park, but have also galloped forward occasionally to carve offensive endeavours for their side. Robert Snodgrass would be a sensible option to be placed on the right side of the midfield whereas on the left, Albert Adomah is expected to start once again.

Attack

Up front, we expect Bruce to go with Scott Hogan. Hogan has been in a decent touch of late as he has scored 3 goals in his last 4 league outings and would be definitely looking to make his presence felt against Fulham.



http://madaboutepl.net/2018/02/key-change-midfield-predicted-4-1-4-1-aston-villa-lineup-face-fulham/