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Steve Bruce indicates certain Aston Villa area will be crucial against Fulham

Steve Bruce believes that the experience him and his side possess will aid them significantly.

The Play-Off Final will be a nervy affair, as it always is, so the team that deals with that in the best way will naturally have an advantage over their opponent.

Villa come into this game as underdogs due to the league standings as well as the quality of the two teams' styles.

Experience in terms of length of playing careers and the amount of games they have been involved in is one of the few areas which Villa have an advantage over their opponents.

Players such as John Terry, Mile Jedinak and Glenn Whelan have invaluable experience which will come in handy during tough moments in this game.

They also have a manager who has achieved four promotions to the Premier League, whereas, Slavisa Jokanovic hasn't achieved one, although he has won titles in Serbia and Thailand. Therefore, there is a recurring theme of being used to big occasions which Bruce has used as a platform to build his team from.

Here's what Bruce had to say about the match in an interview with Sky Sports: "I won't sit here and say that I'm not going to feel some butterflies on the day but, like everything in life, if you've already experienced something then you know how to handle it better."

"When you go over the white line on a big occasion the experience you've had before can stand you in good stead."

"Don't get me wrong I would have loved to have had all these players at 25, but I doubt that would have been possible! But we've been on TV more times this season than Coronation Street and we need players who can handle playing for Aston Villa."

The Verdict

This game is a real sense of experience veterans against an exciting style full of risks when boiled down to its pure roots. It will be a fascinating clash of contrasts between two Championship heavyweights.

Villa's ability to handle the occasion mentally as individuals and as a collective could very easily turn out to be the difference in a game decided by small margins.

However, neutrals will be hoping for a Fulham victory because the standard of their play is Premier League quality, so it would be interesting to see how they fare in the top division especially with another exciting side in Wolves also doing the same.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/steve-bruce-indicates-certain-aston-villa-area-will-be-crucial-against-fulham/

 
Preview: Fulham vs Aston Villa

The biggest game in Fulham's recent history is almost upon us, and we thought it would only be right to cover it fully – so we put George Singer and Jack J Collins together to tell you everything you need to know about the opposition before our big day out at Wembley.

Their Recent Results

D: Aston Villa 0-0 Middlesbrough
W: Middlesbrough 0-1 Aston Villa
L: Millwall 1-0 Aston Villa
D: Aston Villa 1-1 Derby County
W: Ipswich Town 0-4 Aston Villa

Our Recent Meetings

Feb 2018: Fulham 2-0 Aston Villa
Oct 2017: Aston Villa 2-1 Fulham
Apr 2017: Fulham 3-1 Aston Villa
Oct 2016: Aston Villa 1-0 Fulham

Match Odds with Grosvenor Casino (In 90 Mins)

Aston Villa: 47/20
Draw: 2/1
Fulham: 13/10
Fulhamish Tip: Ryan Sessegnon to score and Fulham to win is 17/4 with Grosvenor Casinos

Before The Whistle with George Singer

It's almost here – the one we've all been waiting for! It's been 43 years of hurt, but the Whites of South-West London will finally grace the Wembley turf once again. The prize is, as Sky love to market, the most expensive one in football – all the riches that come with a place in the Premier League. The league's 3rd and 4th best teams face off against each other in what's sure to be a close affair. As we aim to get our 27th win of the season, against the Villains, what can the 38,000 Fulham fans travelling to Wembley expect to see?

Expected Villa lineup

In a position not too dissimilar to our own, these days the Villa lineup pretty much picks itself. After an early season wobble, Aston Villa moved to a balanced 4-1-4-1 setup and have barely looked back. Full of household names, with plenty of experience, the XI above fit together like a jigsaw puzzle: each player complements those around him nicely. It's therefore highly unlikely that Steve Bruce will make any alterations to his settled side for such a critical game.

The only member of the above lineup who is a doubt for the game is Ahmed El Mohamady. The veteran Egyptian missed the second leg of their semi final with a hamstring issue, but is likely to be back in time to take his place on the hallowed turf. If not, he has a more than capable understudy in James Bree.

One of the main area of Villa's attack that really concerns me is their set pieces. In Robert Snodgrass, they own perhaps the strongest left boot in the league, which he's used throughout the season to whip deadly free kicks and corners into the box. Villa are hardly short of players who can head the ball in the back of the net, and they may view this as a potential mismatch to take advantage of. After all, Tim Ream and Denny Odoi are hardly the tallest players in the league.

On the flip side, there are some areas in Villa's defence which Fulham may look at exploiting. Playing in their 4-1-4-1, Villa aren't afraid of putting men behind the ball, particularly in the centre of the pitch. However recently, especially in their match against Boro, they've been operating with a very gentle gentle press. Even a Middlesbrough side, hardly blessed with central playmakers, found they could bypass this with a couple of one-touch passes. We can do the same, with far more potency, but we really need to force the ball forward into these dangerous central areas.

Plenty of stronger teams have managed to earn healthy wins against the Villans away from Villa Park, exploiting these areas, so there's no reason we can't repeat this.

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How They Played in the Semis

Villa ground out an aggregate 1-0 win over Tony Pulis' Middlesbrough in the Semi-Finals, over two games which were slightly turgid – but in which the Villans showed that they could get the job done. Mile Jedinak's early header in the first leg proved to be the decisive goal, and two rock-solid defensive displays laid the foundations for their route to Wembley.

In that regard, Boro didn't really have a shot that troubled Sam Johnstone in the Villa goal, although the keeper should have been banned for the final after a late handball outside the box that was somehow misread by the referee as merely a yellow card.

Grealish remained the most likely spark, although Boro's Darren Randolph had to be at his best to eliminate Villa's threat on the counter on a couple of occasions – namely pushing Robert Snodgrass' goalbound curler onto his post and deflecting Lewis Grabban's flick round the post.

Fulham will have been most interested in the defensive fortitude that the Villans showed against Adama Traore, a decent shout for the trickiest player in the Championship. The winger was shackled by veteran Alan Hutton, and although the job he did is testament to his defensive ability, Villa's tendency to double up on Traore was only possible because of the Spaniard's inability to find the right pass and unleash the overload.

Fulham should take note, in that regard, that the only way to breach Villa's staunch rearguard is to exploit the spaces. With numerous attacking threats across the park, the way to unlock the door will be to play through that defensive wall using the pitch.

Men to Watch

This Villa team are blessed with lots of talent. In previous articles I've written about the strengths of El Mohamady, keeper Sam Johnstone and the lovely left boot of Robert Snodgrass.

Jack Grealish – George Singer

However – this time I wanted to call out the 'other' wonderkid in the league: Jack Grealish. The youngster is certainly eye catching. He refuses to wear shin pads, and sports a pretty hideous haircut, but he's also incredibly graceful on the ball. Calm and confident, he's the kind of player who looks like he has a lot more time on the ball then he actually does. He's not unlike Cairney in many ways: he distributes plenty of passes, and dribbles a lot for central midfield player. Skills they both, no doubt, picked up from time spent operating on the wing.

He doesn't always get the goals and assists, but he's so critical to their play. Everything in open play will go through him – and the midfield battle between him and TC will surely be one to watch.


Conor Hourihane – Jack J Collins

Before I get slaughtered here, hear me out. It's no secret that I'm a long-term admirer of the Irishman at the heart of the Villans midfield, but there's more than just sentiment in this pick.

In a Villa midfield based in front of the aging legs of Mile Jedinak or Glenn Whelan, Hourihane provides the energy and dynamism which allows the play to be linked between a solid back five and a fluid front four. In many senses, he provides a similar role to that which Stefan Johansen does.

Another way that Hourihane's game echoes our own Norwegian engine room is in his goalscoring ability. Even in what has been a 'poor' season for Stef by some standards, he's still chipped in with eight goals. Hourihane has five of his own, including a soaring strike in the Second City Derby.

If Fulham are to win this game, they need to dominate the midfield, and to do that, they need to shut down Hourihane, and stop him linking the play.

Notes for Slav

It's likely that Villa will look to sit back on Saturday, and look to stifle our attack. We've had issues recently with our midfield 3 not pushing high enough up the pitch, and Villa won't offer much space in the final third. To me, this is a game where we really need Johansen to step up, and use his dynamism to find the pockets of space which will appear – and provide a route to get the ball through the centre of the pitch.

A lot has also been made about how a large Wembley pitch may benefit our passing play. However, to make the most of this, we really need to use our quick players to stretch the Villa defence across the pitch. I wouldn't be against Abou Kamara starting again, like he did on the wing against Derby. His pace caused havoc all game, and he dribbled inside with the ball multiple times. I'd like to see him repeat this, moving the opposition fullbacks out of position and provide grass for Freddo and Targett to run into.

COYW!!



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2018-05-25-preview-fulham-vs-aston-villa/

 
The Real Advantages Aston Villa Hold Over Fulham at Wembley

50/50?

The truth be told, when you factor all the advantages and disadvantages that Aston Villa and Fulham are bringing to the table at Wembley stadium on Saturday afternoon, it has the makings of a true 50-50 encounter.

It's Villa's experience and defensive organisation vs Fulham's youthful attacking endeavour. While Villa's players are Wembley veterans, they have been inconsistent as a team at times this season, while the Wembley novices of Fulham have been the most consistent Championship team of 2018.

Villa can beat Wolves 4-1, then lose 3-1 at home to QPR a few days. Fulham can go 23 games unbeaten, then throw away automatic promotion by getting beat by a struggling Blues team. It all suggests anything could happen in the final.

While Fulham have been the slight favourites with the bookies, MOMS is confident for the play-off final and is actually looking forward to the game.

This confidence is in full flow in the new MOMS podcast episode 46, which hopefully will be out some point today (Friday). in the meantime, Villa's chances have already discussed in a more casual manner while recording on location in a park (with hilarious consequences) for episode 45.

Claret Advantage

While I wouldn't be surprised if Fulham win, Villa have perhaps the bigger potential spectrum of ability, if they do turn up and put on the style.

Many have pointed to Villa's best chance of winning is in keeping it tight, ala the semi-final against Middlesbrough. MOMS doesn't necessarily agree. If it turns into an open fire fight, given the proven names in their team, they could repeat at Wembley of Villa's 4-1 winning performance against Wolves.

Another advantage for Villa, will be the Villa support. If you need a second opinion, just ask Liverpool fans who were drowned out in the FA Cup semi-final in 2015. This time, they'll be over 6,000 more Villans than three years ago. It'll certainly be another level above what was on offer at this year's FA Cup final between Chelsea and Manchester United.

While Fulham fans have good intentions with their 'White Wall' plans, there is often a disparity between a hashtag campaign in the virtual world and what actually happens in stands in the real world.

The fact that Fulham fans who could each buy up to five tickets, meaning their end will no doubt include daytrippers, neutral friends and maybe even Villa fans, may undermine their plans somewhat. You can't build a vocal following within a week.

Ultimately though, it should be an exciting high stakes game for both sets of fans with two teams that genuinely should be in the current Premier League.



https://www.myoldmansaid.com/the-real-advantages-aston-villa-hold-over-fulham-at-wembley/

 
The honesty that saved Fulham's season and prepared them for Aston Villa in the play-off final

Tim Ream speaks to football.london about the Cottagers' mentality, young players and what sparked the unbeaten run

Wembley, the play-off final. It's a place Fulham might not have been.

The Cottagers headed to St Andrews as the Championship's darlings and with automatic promotion tantalisingly close.

Only Birmingham, a side that would end up finishing 19th, and needing to better Cardiff's result stood in the way.

The Bluebirds drew Reading. Fulham lost 3-1.

As Tim Ream declared - his team had 's*** the bed'.

That reaction tells you everything you need to know about the 30-year-old and Fulham FC.

The Craven Cottage cult hero was candid and critical - rather than showing a team whose season was about to crack it proved how prepared Slavisa Jokanovic's men are for the biggest match in Championship football.

It's place you'd have never expected the Whites to have been after a poor start. That ability to deliver complete honesty might have saved their season.

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14624583.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Birmingham-City-v-Fulham-Sky-Bet-Championship-St-Andrews.jpg)
Dejection: Fulham players at the final whistle (Image: Nigel French/PA Wire)

In December all that existed was 22 matches, 12th place, 29 points and gifting Sunderland their first home win in 12 months.

Ream, who briefly tasted Premier League football with Bolton, said his side made a deliberate decision to change.

He said: "We've tightened up in a lot of areas and it was down to guys getting down to hard work.

"I don't think in the beginning of the season we were working hard enough as a team.

"Obviously we have individual talent all over the field and we know that but it was really a conscious effort to play as a team, play as a unit from front to back and work for each other and making sure we're helping the guy out next to us, and in front of us and behind us.

"I think that's been a real key in the second half of this season."

Despite all of the plaudits for the Cottagers' flowing football it's obvious this team is about more than being easy on the eye.

Defeat to Birmingham tested that notion and losing to Derby at Pride Park meant Fulham's winless play-off record reverberated the bones of all onlookers.

Jokanovic consistently talks of ignoring history, of being 'in this moment' but history was on his side.

23 matches unbeaten overstates the dominance but underestimates the other qualities the west Londoners showed that will help them this weekend.

Just as impressive as the play in a 6-0 win over Burton was the belief in a 2-2 draw with Hull. Ream and co were outclassed for 45 minutes away from home in just the third game of the unbeaten stretch. Substitutes before the half-time whistles, harsh truths and a response.

The Whites may not have been quite as silky as in 16/17 but have provided plenty of other moments for the Cottage to get behind.

Ryan Fredericks railroading the width of the pitch to (fairly) clatter Leeds United's Ezgjan Alioski, Kevin McDonald scoring with his backside and Denis Odoi disregarding his height to score against Derby.

This is a team that reacts when the chips are down.

"As professionals you know when you're not having the best game and you know you have an off first or second half and the manager will come in and say a few things but the mentality of the squad is such that we can dig each other out and know we're going to get a reaction out of everyone," said Ream

"Hull is probably the best example. It's definitely key for our squad to just be in it together have a strong mentality and know if we go a goal down we can claw our way back."

More often than not Fulham have found a way to victory and take ownership of their performance.

That responsibility is something that goes beyond senior members of the squad.

Academy graduates Ryan and Steven Sessegnon, 18, Luca de la Torre, 20, and Marlon Fossey, 19, all participated in first team training on Wednesday morning at Motspur Park and all display the same composure.

Ryan is the trailblazer undoing teams with ghost-like movement but equally impressive is his maturity.

You'll have no doubt heard the anecdote circulating from the Fulham Supporters' Trust AGM of the youngster returning to the changing rooms after drug testing protocol to find the kit man had already left.

Rather than casting his strip to the changing room floor he took it home to wash then iron and returned it the next day.

It's emblematic of Fulham's younger generation and Ream has been impressed with them on the training pitch..

He said: "It's hunger but it's a willingness to learn and a willingness to listen. I think that's what sets these young kids apart.

"They're willing to take on board the things that not just the players but the manger and everybody throughout the club are saying.

"They know they're good players but they're not getting carried away.

"It's been refreshing, all season to see them come in with a smile on their face but ready to work."

Good players, not getting carried away, willing to listen - it feels like the club's ethos.

As the play-off final approaches there's a sense Fulham are heading to a crossroads.

The loan system has undoubtedly helped the Cottagers reach their final fixture against Aston Villa.

Aleksandar Mitrovic and Matt Targett helped balance a team on the rise, key squad members were added in Oliver Norwood, Tomas Kalas and Lucas Piazon while Liverpool's Sheyi contributed in the early part of the season.

All will return to the stewardship of their parent clubs following heartbreak or jubilation.

They aren't the only ones whose futures remain the subject of speculation. Ryan Fredericks is out of contract at the end of the season, Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney are persistently linked to Premier League moves and even Jokanovic himself has been touted for Chelsea.

Whatever league the club finds itself in come August, there will be personnel changes, but perhaps victory at Wembley will improve Fulham's chances of keeping this team together.

That's what 30-year-old Ream is hoping for against Villa.

The USA international said: "I think we all want to stay together. Not many guys will say, not many guys will admit it but I think that's been part of the motivation.

"It's not been discussed one way or the other. If we win, the squad will be different. If we lose, the squad will be different.

"It's not been discussed but we all know things will change no matter what happens. We want to do it together.

"It's a tight knit group, it is, we do a lot of travelling together, a lot of nights in hotels of hanging out and talking nonsense but we've got to know each other so well over the last two seasons we want to do it for each other as well as the club."

That relationship gives an empowering feeling to a squad that has hit the headlines for the quality of their passing.

"If you can be friends and be a team it makes it easier on the pitch," the former Bolton defender continued.

"You know where the guys are going to be, you know how they are, their personalities, you know everything about them and it just makes it easier to play with everybody on the pitch.

"We can dig everybody out and we know it's not personal and we know that we're going to get a reaction when we do have to.

"At the end of the day we know we can get on the bus after a game and all just have a laugh about it and be friends."

So, three weeks removed from defeat to one half of Birmingham, lets hope at the final whistle Ream can once again utter the phrase 's*** the bed'.

But this time in realisation that a team that does more than play nice football has done good.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-aston-villa-play-final-14701480

 
How Fulham can beat Aston Villa and seal return to the Premier League

Fulham have the chance to end a four-year absence from the Premier League when they take on Aston Villa in the Championship Play-Off Final on Saturday.

Here, Standard Sport looks at how the Cottagers can get the better of their promotion rivals at Wembley.

Target the old warhorse

Fulham will target John Terry, and manager Slavisa Jokanovic said he expects the 37-year-old defender to make mistakes if he is put under pressure. Terry and defensive partner James Chester are in for a tough battle against Aleksandar Mitrovic. The Serb has scored 12 goals during his loan spell at Craven Cottage since January and Fulham will look to use his strength and the energy of players around him to cause Terry problems.

Make sure Jack's not all right

Jack Grealish has matured into a key man for Villa, and Fulham must ensure the playmaker is not given too much room to dictate play in midfield. Grealish likes to carry the ball in to dangerous areas and it will be Kevin McDonald's responsibility to stop him creating.

Find a way past Jedinak

Fulham are expected to dominate possession and Mile Jedinak will have a key role in protecting the Villa defence. The former Crystal Palace captain will sit deep and look to break up play when Fulham get forward. Villa boss Steve Bruce will also ask his two wide players, Robert Snodgrass and Albert Adomah, to defend narrow to protect central areas and make the Midlanders difficult to break down.

Keep feeding Sessegnon

Villa's plans to stop left-winger Ryan Sessegnon have been disrupted by an injury to Ahmed Elmohamady. The  right-back damaged his hamstring in the first leg of Villa's play-off semi-final against Middlesbrough and is a major doubt. James Bree, 20, will play if Elmohamady is not fit.

Take extra care at corners

A Denis Odoi header from a corner got Fulham to Wembley but they will be wary of the threat Villa pose from  set pieces. Villa have a lot of height and Bruce feels his side can hurt Fulham from corners.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/how-fulham-can-beat-aston-villa-and-seal-return-to-the-premier-league-a3848171.html

 
Fulham set for richest game in football against Aston Villa

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Ryan Sessegnon has been a key component. Credit: PA

Fulham will play Aston Villa in the richest prize in football when they face each one another in the Championship play-off final on Saturday.

For the victor it will be a place in the Premier League and potential earnings of up to £280million, according to Deloitte. For the loser, it will mean another gruelling 46-game campaign in the second tier.

It would be a return to the Premier League for the first time since their relegation in 2014 when Felix Magath took them down.

The Londoners only missed out on promotion by two points, finishing third behind Cardiff City thanks to a fantastic run in the second half of the season, which saw them go 23 games unbeaten until the final defeat at Birmingham City.

The signing of Aleksandar Mitrovic was key to the success of Slavisa Jokanovic's side. The Serb has scored 12 goals in 17 appearances for the Cottagers since arriving on loan in January from Newcastle United.

Ryan Sessegnon has proved to be the finest teenager in the Championship, potentially the country. He scored in the second-leg semi-final victory over Derby which led Fulham to Wembley. The youngster has netted 16 goals and assisted another seven over the course of the season and his input against Aston Villa will be vital.

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Aleksandar Mitrovic arrived in January. Credit: PA

Sessegnon's team-mate, Kevin McDonald, praised the winger, he said: "Since I've been at the club, he's had a good two years. There's no denying it.

"He's been fantastic this season. He was incredible last season. You can't speak highly enough of him.

"As a player, as a kid, everything. He's got it all. He's a grounded kid, the same as his brother. They must come from a good family.

"He is willing to learn and is continuing to learn every day. He is always asking questions.

"He's got the world at his feet. I've got full confidence he will do it on the big stage on Saturday and I would love it if Sess was to score the winner for us.

"It would top off a fantastic two seasons for the guy, and after that we will see what happens."

(http://news.images.itv.com/image/file/1542492/stream_img.jpg)
Slavisa Jokanovic will take his team to Wembley. Credit: PA

Along with the star turns the consistency of defence, particularly Tim Ream and Ryan Fredericks has helped lay the foundations for the run to the play-off final.

Now everything is reliant on 90 minutes of action at Wembley, with the potential of extra-time and penalties.

During the two games this season between the two clubs, both side's have a home victory each to their name. Aston Villa won 2-1 in October thanks to goals from Albert Adomah and John Terry, while Fulham earn the points at Craven Cottage in February as Sessegnon and Floyd Ayite got the better of Steve Bruce's team.

The two results prove how close the two teams are, not to mention them finishing third and fourth, respectively, with Fulham being seen as a young, talented team, set to face a more experienced side who can boast the former England captain Terry.

It should be an enthralling contest at Wembley with a little bit of Sessegnon magic or Mitrovic dynamism in front of goal what could just swing it Fulham's way and return them to the promised land.

Last updated Fri 25 May 2018



http://www.itv.com/news/london/2018-05-25/fulham-set-for-richest-game-in-football-against-aston-villa/

 
Most neutrals will root for Fulham because of way they've played all season, says Danny Murphy

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Style guide: Fulham went 23 games unbeaten during the regular season (Getty Images)

I would be chuffed to see Fulham back in the Premier League because the club mean a lot to me.

They have played the best football in the Championship this season and I think Wembley will suit their style of football under Slavisa Jokanovic.

It is a big pitch and the way Jokanovic likes his team to play out from the back — and that belief in what they do — will help them tomorrow.

They face an Aston Villa side with a lot of experience and knowhow, but Fulham play with a great energy, so it is a nice contrast in styles.

Villa are a bit more pragmatic in how they go about it.

It would mean a lot for both clubs. They have been in the Premier League for a long time in recent years. Villa have a good manager in Steve Bruce and will be desperate to get back there, but I think most neutrals will be rooting for Fulham because of the way they have played and their performances this season.

There will be a lot of watching eyes on Ryan Sessegnon and it would be fantastic for him if Fulham go up. The chances are he will then stay and playing every week in the Premier League for Fulham will benefit him more than moving on and not playing every week somewhere else.

His future is really bright. He plays with a freedom and a maturity that usually comes a lot later in the development of a player.

He has got a lot of flexibility in his play in terms of running off that wide area and coming inside and scoring goals.

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Bright future: Ryan Sessegnon (PA)

It was the right decision not to take him to the World Cup. It was too early for him, but he is so young and has got so much time.

England are all right on the left side when you think even someone like Ryan Bertrand did not get selected. Sessegnon has got so much time to learn and he will be part of that for sure, so there is  no rush. 

John Terry will have a tough battle with Aleksandar Mitrovic but will not worry about the Serb. John has had a lot of tough battles and knows how to play people.

It is more the midfield area that will be key. Tom Cairney is very influential for Fulham but Mile Jedinak will try to stop him and he is a tough cookie who takes no prisoners.

It is always hard when you finish third like Fulham did because you feel like you have missed out and you have got to start again. But they got over that hurdle against Derby in the semi-final and it was a big result to come back from 1-0 down in the first game, so Fulham will be well up for it. I think they will do it.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/most-neutrals-will-root-for-fulham-because-of-way-they-ve-played-all-season-says-danny-murphy-a3848221.html

 
Targett: Fighting Together

Matt Targett says Fulham's fans and players will be fighting as one at Wembley on Saturday afternoon.

The Whites sold out our allocation five days prior to the Championship Play-Off Final, and Targett is not underestimating the impact the supporters can have.


"It's a lovely stadium," he told the official website. "I played there earlier on in the season with Southampton, but it will be great to play in front of 38,000 Fulham fans.

"It will be a good day out for them and I'm sure they'll be cheering us on all the way. It will be a great atmosphere. If the fans can make it as loud as the Cottage has been then that would be a great help to us.

"If you have difficult moments during the game, to have that backing from the crowd really helps pull you through. We'll be giving 100 per cent on the pitch, and I'm sure the fans will be doing the same in the stands.

"Derby was fantastic, I think it was the best atmosphere I've played in. From start to finish they were fully behind us, it was so loud, and if they can carry that on into Wembley then that will be a massive help to us."

On the four occasions Fulham and Aston Villa have met in the Championship, the home side has always prevailed, setting things up for an intriguing tie at the national stadium.


"It's going to be a very tough battle," Targett said. "They're a team full of very good players with a lot of experience in there.

"We're looking forward to the challenge and hopefully we'll get a positive result.

"The mood is very good. We're confident and looking forward to it. Not many people have played at Wembley so it will be a new experience and one we're going to embrace."

Targett has been a revelation since joining on loan from Southampton in January, slotting in seamlessly at left-back.

Only two games were lost during his time at the Club, and now we're just one win from the Premier League – would he have settled for that when he signed?

"For sure. It's been incredible since I got here, I've loved every single minute of it. The team went on a great run and it's been a pleasure to play here week in, week out.

"It's been a good loan move, and hopefully we can finish on a high and get Fulham back in the Premier League."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/25/matt-targett-wembley-play-off-final-preview

 
'Fulham will edge it', 'Aston Villa will do it' – FLW writers issue verdicts on Championship Play-Off Final

(https://cdn.footballleagueworld.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/villa-fulham.jpg)

It's the Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Final tomorrow, as Aston Villa take on Fulham in the most lucrative football match in the world.

But who will win?

We issue our verdicts....

Alfie Burns

I'm hoping to see Fulham make it to the Premier League, as their performances over the last 18 months have totally deserved it.

However, Aston Villa will do it.

Bruce's side have all the experience, where Fulham might freeze on the biggest stage.

Players like John Terry and Mile Jedinak know how to handle the big stage, whilst in Jack Grealish they have a player who can turn a game with one moment.

Of course, Fulham have plenty of quality, but I've a feeling Villa will nullify their big threats.

Christian Fuller

Fulham are undoubtedly going to go in to tomorrow's Championship play-off final as favourites, and rightly so.

When you compare the match ups, you do start to worry for Villa. Mitrovic versus Terry will show the veteran defender is not ready for the new breed of Premier League strikers, Ryan Sessegnon will run rings around whoever Steve Bruce puts at full back, while Jack Grealish up against Tom Cairney in the middle will be no battle.

Villa have impressed this season, but the game is going only one way, and that's to Fulham.

George Dagless

This is so tough to call.

Both sides are good enough to go up but I think Fulham will just about edge it.

Villa have plenty of big-game players but I can't look past the way Fulham play as in 2018 they've been the best in the league – including Wolves.

That will just see them over the line I think. For sure, though, it's going to be a cracker!

Sam Rourke

This is going to be one hell of a Championship Play-Off final, probably the best one we're going to see in years.

It sees two very closely matched teams come up against each-other in the biggest match in English football.

My gut feeling is Fulham will edge it.

On paper they are so evenly matched, but I just think if Fulham can play to their full potential, they'll have too much attacking threat for Villa to handle.

Chris Gallagher

Villa, just.

I expect a tight, high-quality game but I think Villa will edge it.

Steve Bruce's experienced side will stifle the Cottagers and have enough about them to nick a goal, whether it's through magic from Jack Grealish or a set-piece.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-will-edge-it-aston-villa-will-do-it-flw-writers-issue-verdicts-on-championship-play-off-final/

 
Clubs eye free agent Marsh-Brown

HITC Sport understands a number of clubs are eyeing free agent Keanu Marsh-Brown.

Former Forest Green star Keanu Marsh-Brown is a target for a number of Football League clubs on a free transfer, HITC Sport understands.

Skilful winger Marsh-Brown is a free agent after seeing out his contract at League Two Forest Green Rovers.

Marsh-Brown found himself largely out of favour at Forest Green this season, despite playing an instrumental role in the club's promotion to the Football League in the 2016/17 season for the first time.

The attacker made only nine starts in League Two this season, but still managed to score two goals for Forest Green.

Marsh-Brown spent the last two months of the season on loan at National League side Dover Athletic and he impressed there with four goals in six outings.

News of Marsh-Brown's availability on a free transfer has alerted a number of League One and League Two clubs with the winger capable of scoring spectacular goals.

Marsh-Brown began his career at Fulham and played for Oldham, Yeovil and Barnet before joining Forest Green in the summer of 2015.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/05/25/por-clubs-eye-free-agent-marsh-brown/

 
Fulham and Hull City battling it out for Greek defender

Fulham and Hull City are interested in signing PAOK defender Dimitros Chatziisaias, according to The Sun.

The 25-year-old has impressed this season on loan at Greek side Atromitos from PAOK and is being targeted by Fulham and Hull City.

The Cottagers play Aston Villa tomorrow at Wembley at Wembley Stadium for a place in the Premier League. Their manager, Slavisa Jokanovic, sees Chatziisaias as someone who could bolster his defence for next season. PAOK could be willing to sell him as he only has a year left on his contract there.

Fulham will have to face competition for his signature from Hull City. The Championship side are looking for transfer targets for the summer as they look to move up the table in the next campaign. The Tigers have key players like Michael Dawson, Moses Odubajo, Seb Larsson and Abel Hernandez out of contract next month and could lose them on free transfers.

Therefore, they are in the hunt for potential replacements. As well as Chatziisaias, Hull have also recently been linked with Nottingham Forest defender Eric Lichaj and Scunthorpe United winger Hakeeb Adelakun.

Chatziisaias had spells in Greece with Vataniakos, Glyfada, Chania and Panionios before he was snapped up by PAOK in 2016 for €1 million. However, he fell down the pecking order there and was loaned out to Atromitos for this season.

The 6ft 4inc defender could be handed an escape route out of PAOK this summer by Hull City or Fulham.



http://the72.co.uk/103402/fulham-hull-city-battling-greek-defender/

 
Ahmed Elmohamady winning race to be fit for Championship play-off final

Aston Villa defender Ahmed Elmohamady is making good progress in his recovery from injury and stands a good chance of playing in the Sky Bet Championship play-off final against Fulham at Wembley.
The 30-year-old defender was absent for the second leg of the semi-final at home to Middlesbrough last week after suffering a hamstring injury in the first game at the Riverside and there were fears he could also miss the showpiece at the national stadium.
However, things are looking much more positive after the Egyptian resumed training this week and he will be put through his paces again on Friday.
If Elmohamady does not make it then James Bree is likely to fill in, as he did against Boro for the goalless second leg at Villa Park which clinched Villa's passage to the final.
Fulham are at full strength as they aim to end a four-year absence from the Premier League.
The Cottagers have reported no problems after they beat Derby over two legs in the early part of last week.
Sheyi Ojo could be involved in the squad after missing the last seven games due to injury, though he is unlikely to start.
Slavisa Jokanovic replaced Floyd Ayite with Aboubakar Kamara for the second leg against the Rams and he must again choose between the two at Wembley.



http://www.espn.co.uk/football/preview?gameId=510816

 
Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic has allowed youth to thrive, says Matt Taylor

Former Portsmouth midfielder Matt Taylor praised Slavisa Jokanovic's work in combining youth with success ahead of Fulham's Championship play-off final against Aston Villa on Saturday, live on Sky Sports.

Ryan Sessegnon, 18, has made more appearances than anyone else at the club this season, while 22-year-old defender Matt Targett and 20-year-old midfielder Sheyi Ojo have both played more than 20 times.

Jokanovic's Fulham ended the league season with a 3-1 defeat to Birmingham, after a 23-game unbeaten run that almost propelled them into the automatic promotion spots.

Taylor told Sky Sports News: "Jokanovic has done a very good job with a young group of players.

"He has allowed youth to thrive, whilst being successful and finishing third in the league.

"They've been exceptional at times, easy on the eye, and they play expansive football."

Taylor feels promotion for Fulham is crucial if they are to retain some of their best players, especially Sessegnon, who has scored 16 goals from the left flank this season.

He said: "I love the fact that Sessegnon plays with no fear.

"At the moment he has only had success in his career, he knows nothing else.

"It would be tough to hold onto him if Fulham lose on Saturday.

"Will the owner continue to put the same sums of money into the club if they don't make it into the Premier League?"

Former Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie agreed that Fulham's style of play has been up there with the best in the league this season.

He said: "Fulham and Wolves are streets ahead of the rest in terms of the way they play.

"They're very good going forward and in Sessegnon they have a young talent who gets in great areas.

"His energy and where he arrives in the box is excellent."



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11384930/fulham-boss-slavisa-jokanovic-has-allowed-youth-to-thrive-says-matt-taylor

 
From PE teacher to Wembley: How Denis Odoi was told he'd never be a professional footballer

The 29-year-old's header steered Fulham to Wembley, but he reveals how a life in teaching PE once seemed like the route he would take in life

On the eve of one of the biggest games in Fulham's history, the man that got the side there takes a moment to reflect on what promotion to the Premier League would mean.

"It would be great accomplishment for me," Denis Odoi says, "if we go up not a lot of people would have expected me to play at that level or expect my career as it is going right now."

The 29-year-old started his career at Oud-Heverlee Leuven in Belgium having grown up alongside players like Dries Mertens, who will most likely be representing the pair's country at the 2018 World Cup in Russia this summer.

Since then he's played for Sint-Truiden before moving to Anderlecht, where he wont two Belgian titles before making the move over to Lokeren and eventually Fulham.

But it could've turned out differently for Odoi, who was told when he was young that playing professional football wasn't going to be an option for him like it was for Mertens, but despite that it was his goal that sent Fulham to Wembley.

"Since I was young I was watching Match of the Day and then coming to England to play and now the possibility to go to the Premier League, that would be a huge accomplishment," he said.

"I was just a normal football player. I was never the best in my team.

"A lot of those guys who were playing in the Premier League were playing in Serie A, I grew up with them. They were always better than me. I grew up with Dries Mertens - I have known him since I was five.

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14705386.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Fulham-v-Derby-County-Sky-Bet-Championship-Play-Off-Semi-FinalSecond-Leg.jpg)
(Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

"I was always playing with him and he was such a great player. Then I went to school and they asked me 'what do I think I was going to be later because we all know you are not going to be a professional football player!'

"I did not take any offence to it. I was not obsessed by becoming a professional football player, I was studying and going to school, playing football and just enjoying myself, then one thing led to another.

"[I would] Probably a teacher in PE, because I was studying that in college when I was a professional footballer."

But the side are well aware of what lies before them before they can even think about the Premier League.

Aston Villa are the opponents on Saturday in the play-off final at Wembley, a team full of experience and the know-how of how to handle the big occassion.

Odoi was part of the season that went out at the semi final stage last season after a 2-1 aggregate defeat to Reading in his debut season at Craven Cottage.

And ahead of Saturday's game, the centre back believes everyone has learnt from what happened last year and aren't thinking about what comes next - just the game itself.

He said: "Everybody is focused about the game and making sure we're ready because in the past, like last year, we though about if we get to Wembley and thinking about things.

"After Reading we're all sitting there like 'oh f***, we aren't going to Wembley' and it was the same with Birmingham 'what if we might get promoted directly, great we can go on holiday' so I think everyone has learnt from those two experiences that we're not going to think about what comes afterwards, we're going to think about Saturday and working hard and achieve."

Slavisa Jokanovic's role in getting Fulham to the play-off final cannot be understated - since he joined, the side went from relegation candidates to two successive play-off appearances.

The message from the head coach is a simple one ahead of the play-off final: keep playing the way Fulham have played all season.

"He [Jokanovic] is important because even when things weren't going well he said 'stick to the way we are playing, thats the way we are more dangerous'.

"Sometimes he adapted, but sometimes after we lost a game he said we just had a bad game and we need to forgot about it, and keep playing.

"I think that is going to be the message for Saturday - keep playing the way we have always played, because if we start playing totally different we are going to regret it after."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-play-offs-denis-odoi-14705209

 
Aston Villa v Fulham: Big-match preview for Championship play-off final live on Sky Sports Football

Fulham face Aston Villa in the Sky Bet Championship play-off final at Wembley with a place in the Premier League as the prize for the winner.

Ahead of the massive encounter, which is live on Sky Sports Football from 4pm on Saturday, we provide you with all the team news, stats, key questions, manager interviews and predictions here...

Team news

---

Aston Villa defender Ahmed Elmohamady is making good progress in his recovery from injury and stands a good chance of playing. The 30-year-old defender was absent for the second leg of the semi-final at home to Middlesbrough last week after suffering a hamstring injury in the first game at the Riverside and there were fears he could also miss the showpiece at the national stadium.

However, things are looking much more positive after the Egyptian resumed training this week and he will be put through his paces again on Friday. If Elmohamady does not make it then James Bree is likely to fill in, as he did against Boro for the goalless second leg at Villa Park which clinched Villa's passage to the final.

Fulham are at full strength as they aim to end a four-year absence from the Premier League. The Cottagers have reported no problems after they beat Derby over two legs in the early part of last week.

Sheyi Ojo could be involved in the squad after missing the last seven games due to injury, though he is unlikely to start. Jokanovic replaced Floyd Ayite with Aboubakar Kamara for the second leg against the Rams and he must again choose between the two at Wembley.

Opta stats

---

Fulham are featuring in their first play-off final, having previously lost in the semi-finals in 1988/89 (third-tier), 1997/98 (third-tier) and 2016/17 (second-tier), while Aston Villa have reached the final in their first play-off campaign.

Steve Bruce is set to manage in his third play-off final - he has been promoted in both of his previous two, progressing on penalties in 2001-02 as Birmingham manager against Norwich and beating Sheffield Wednesday with Hull in 2015-16.

Indeed, he's the third manager to manage in three play-off finals in the second tier, after Brian Little (three finals between 1991-92 and 1993-94) and Ian Holloway (2009-10, 2011-12 and 2012-13).

Bruce has won four promotions to the top-flight (2001-02, 2006-07, 2012-13 and 2015-16), a joint-record with Neil Warnock, who achieved his fourth this season with Cardiff.

Hinchcliffe's key question - Who needs promotion more?

---

"It seems easy to say but the price of failure is huge for both teams," said Andy Hinchcliffe. "You can only imagine what will happen to each squad if they don't get up this season as both could lose a lot of key talent.

"For Fulham, the likes of Tom Cairney, Ryan Sessegnon and Ryan Fredericks could all go while Aleksandar Mitrovic and Matt Targett have only been on loan, and that's half a team right there. The same is true for Aston Villa with their loan players. Their squad is also getting older and you have to wonder if John Terry will stay for another season in the Championship."

The Key Battle

---

The 2018 Sky Bet Championship play-off final is set to produce an intriguing encounter between serial Wembley winner John Terry and Fulham's in-form Serb Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The decorated 37-year-old defender has made 836 appearances for club and country and won 15 major trophies, lifting five major Cups at Wembley as Chelsea captain. Terry will need to call upon all his experience to shut out Mitrovic who was named Sky Bet Championship Player of the month for March and April.

Combined XI

---

It all boils down to 90 minutes under the Wembley arch as the Championship season comes to an end on Saturday. Fulham face Aston Villa in the play-off final to determine who joins Wolves and Cardiff in the Premier League next season.

WhoScored.com determine a combined Fulham and Aston Villa XI using their unique rating system to whet the appetite ahead of Saturday's showpiece...


The managers

---

Steve Bruce: "I won't sit here and say that I'm not going to feel some butterflies on the day but, like everything in life, if you've already experienced something then you know how to handle it better.

"Make no mistake about it, though, however many times you've done it it's still a wonderful occasion and the reason you're in football is for days like this. I've said many times in big games like this you can smell the hot dogs a little bit, that's what Archie Knox used to say all those years ago and nothing has changed.

"Hopefully we can put a smile back on the faces of Aston Villa fans for a change because for five or six years it's been pretty desperate at times. Let's hope it's our turn again."

Slavisa Jokanovic: "It's a special game, but on the other hand we must understand it is only one game," he told Sky Sports. "We must try to play, perform and show our quality, to show we are focused and concentrated to show we are a good team. We must play the game, we must not be scared. In football there are different results but we are thinking about only one.

"We are more experienced, we played in the play-offs last season and knew more or less what we were going to find. We are going to have an opportunity to play the most important game in the last few years for us, we know how we are going to find it and at the end, what we want is to win."

Prutton's prediction

---

This should be a fascinating encounter at Wembley. Fulham play the better football but they are coming against a side in Aston Villa who will be set up well to contain them.

These games are so often separated by the odd goal. You would not back against John Terry, with all his Wembley experience, to pop up with a header from a corner or a free-kick to win it.

David Prutton predicts: Aston Villa to win 1-0 and John Terry to score (195/1 with Sky Bet)



http://www.skysports.com/football/a-villa-vs-fulham/preview/389284

 
Aston Villa v Fulham – talking points

Steve Bruce and Slavisa Jokanovic's sides meet at Wembley with a place in next season's Premier League awaiting the winner.

(http://sport.bt.com/images/aston-villa-v-fulham--talking-points-136427417925836601-180525125620.jpg)

Aston Villa and Fulham play at Wembley in Saturday's Championship play-off final.

A place in the Premier League is the reward for the winners.

Here Press Association Sport looks at some of the talking points ahead of the game.

Cash prize

(https://image.assets.pressassociation.io/v2/image/production/99e3b1a7d08fbd594f0391f4b0cfc369Y29udGVudHNlYXJjaCwxNTI3MzMzNDU1/2.31520609.jpg?w=640)
Money will not be in the players' minds in the Championship play-off final (Nigel French/EMPICS)

The financial rewards on offer for victory in the play-off final are huge, dwarfing those in Saturday's other big game, the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool. The victorious team at Wembley stands to receive at least £160million in revenue, Deloitte estimates. Survival for more than one season in the top flight would see that rise to £280m. But let's not forget this is also an occasion for the romantics, with two historic clubs battling for a top-flight return.

Brucie bonus

(https://image.assets.pressassociation.io/v2/image/production/3b5087d308925a9c831f04598eee0fcfY29udGVudHNlYXJjaCwxNTI3MzMzNTI2/2.26466607.jpg?w=640)
Steve Bruce led Hull to play-off final victory at Wembley and hopes to repeat the feat with Aston Villa (Adam Davy/EMPICS)

Steve Bruce knows what it takes to win at Wembley. The former Manchester United captain is set to manage in his third play-off final and he has won the previous two (with Birmingham in 2002 and Hull in 2016). The third manager to manage in three play-off finals, Bruce has won four promotions to the top flight, a joint-record with Cardiff boss Neil Warnock. Surely that experience will come in handy on the big day.

Cottagers Wembley wait over

(https://image.assets.pressassociation.io/v2/image/production/1200ef87b931e31b636e9d05434ab9e3Y29udGVudHNlYXJjaCwxNTI3MzMzNTk1/2.36383695.jpg?w=640)
Fulham are making just a second Wembley appearance, with boss Slavisa Jokanovic seeking a first win at the national stadium (Nigel French/EMPICS)

Fulham have played at Wembley once before, losing the 1975 FA Cup final to West Ham. No wonder Shahid Khan, their owner, wants to buy the national stadium – although it will not become Fulham's home. The Cottagers have been unsuccessful in three previous play-off campaigns, but will hope to carry the momentum from their third-placed finish, above Villa, and the semi-final victory over Derby.

Feeling the Blues?

Chelsea supporters and officials may be among those keenly watching the action at Wembley, in particular two former Blues players. Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic has been linked with Chelsea in the last week, but there is currently no vacancy at Stamford Bridge as Antonio Conte remains in charge. If Villa are promoted, there is the prospect of John Terry facing Chelsea, the side with whom he is synonymous. The 37-year-old last summer left for Villa Park after 22 years at Stamford Bridge.

Young talents

One is portrayed as a hell-raising party animal, the other as a clean-cut professional who washes and irons his own kit. Villa's Jack Grealish showed glimpses of his potential in the Premier League previously, but made more headlines for his off-field party lifestyle. He is now maturing into a playmaker who can cut open defences. Ryan Sessegnon is much admired and coveted, despite only just turning 18. The left-sided player is renowned for his pace and power and surely will grace the Premier League next season. Whether it is with Fulham depends on Saturday.



http://sport.bt.com/football/aston-villa-v-fulham-talking-points-S11364274179318

One Sleep from Wembley
by Lydia on May 25, 2018

One sleep from Wembley. Or rather, one night of attempted sleep! I feel like a kid at Christmas, knowing that tomorrow is the day that football fans dream about. Some fans get a chance to see their team at Wembley every few seasons, for others it's maybe once every ten years or so, but for Fulham it has been 43 years. We have had the longest wait of any other professional club, and was just one of the reasons for our mass celebrations last Monday evening by the Thames.

There have been mind games from both camps and banter between the two fan bases but tomorrow all of that will be left behind and Slavisa Jokanovic and his team must do the talking on the pitch. 90minutes from the Promised Land of the Premier League and a cash wind fall that most clubs can only dream of.

Tomorrow's game is incredibly difficult to call. Some say that we are favourites while some say that Villa have that burden, but truth be told, it really doesn't matter. We have played each other twice already this season with both sides winning at home. Villa fans have been quick to remind me that they were without Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah for the game at Craven Cottage, but we didn't have Tom Cairney to start, played Rui Fonte and Aboubakar Kamara up front for the first time together and had Ryan Sessegnon as a left back at Villa Park. Tomorrow both sides look to have a fully fit squad so this will be noticeably different from the previous two games this season. The midfield battle will be fierce with the undoubtedly talented Grealish alongside Snodgrass and Hourihane up against Cairney, Johansen and McDonald and you'd imagine that whoever wins that battle will win the match.

I decided to call on Aston Villa fan and podcaster at 7500 to Holte, Daniel Raza for a Villa take on the game tomorrow.

    Who do you see has Villa's main danger man for Fulham on Saturday?

Jack Grealish. Going into a final, we're going to need a certain amount of energy to stay dangerous for the full 90/120 minutes and I believe he can drive Villa forward especially on the counter. I'm expecting Villa to be solid defensively from watching the semi-finals and being quick on the break is going to be important. Other than that, we were without him during the defeat and Craven Cottage and he could be the changing factor.

    Who is your unsung hero from this season and why?

James Chester deserves a lot of plaudits for solid defensive performances and turning up to every minute of Championship football this season. It's easy to get ignored when your defensive partner is John Terry, but James is one of the biggest leader figures in the team and will be important for us in the final.

    When was the last time you got to Wembley? What happened?

It was at the end of an awful season in 2015, where Tim Sherwood had been brought in as the replacement to Paul Lambert. He had a positive effect on the team and gave Villa the final push into to FA Cup Final. Unfortunately, the team choked as they had done for most of the season and lost 4-0 to Arsenal. This was the season before we got relegated.

    Is there anyone from Fulham's team that really worries you?

I do think Sessegnon is going to be a wildcard here. He'll likely be the youngest player on the pitch on Saturday and whilst nerves are racking up around both dressing rooms – this could be the big opportunity he needs to shine. He has nothing to lose on Saturday and that could really drive him to cause havoc against us. With Elmohamady injured, it's a big ask for Alan Hutton to keep both Sessegnon and Kamara at bay.

    SCORE PREDICTION- I'm going to say 1-1 at 90 minutes, and 2-1 Villa after extra time!

So there we go. They have very recent Wembley experience plus A LOT of leaders on the pitch. For the neutral, this is the best game you could have hoped for in a Play-off Final, but for fans of both clubs we are in for 90minutes at least of stress.

I can't ask Daniel to do a score prediction and not do one myself, so here goes. I'm going to be brave and say 2-0 Fulham at the end of the 90 with Mitrovic and Cairney with the goals.

#COYW



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/05/19690/

 
6 assists v 14 goals: The frightening Aston Villa duo that Fulham need to be wary of


The play-off final will take centre stage in the Sky Bet Championship tomorrow afternoon, with Aston Villa taking on Fulham for a place in the Premier League.

Fulham finished third in the Championship table after 46 fixtures, one place ahead of Villa in fourth.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side are favourites ahead of the final, but Villa pose a major threat going forward, with Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah amongst their most dangerous players.

We take a look at that duo in our latest FLW Duel, which highlights which of Villa's key men Fulham need to be wary of.

In Grealish's 29 appearances this season, he has shone, with his numbers far better than his teammate on the wing.

The 22-year-old has six assists to his name over the course of the season, which is one more than Adomah.

In addition to that, Grealish has produced more average shots and key passes per game (1.9 v 1.5 and 1.9 v 1.2).

The midfielder's positive play is further highlighted in his 2.9 dribbles per game, with Adomah averaging just 1.4.

Grealish's average pass success rate stands at 85.8%, with Adomah's figure at 77.1%.

The one area that the 30-year-old winger has bettered Grealish this season is in the goalscoring department. Adomah has 14 goals to his name, whilst Grealish has just three.

The Verdict

It's been an outstanding year for Grealish, who is going to be the player Fulham are most worried about tomorrow afternoon.

However, Jokanovic's side would be foolish to not keep an eye on Adomah, who is a huge goal threat.

The winger has produced moments in big games this season and will be looking to do the same tomorrow.

Together, along with Robert Snodgrass, Adomah and Grealish form a really frightening attacking midfield trio.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/6-assists-v-14-goals-the-frightening-aston-villa-duo-that-fulham-need-to-be-wary-of/

 
Kevin McDonald: 'Fulham have got a nasty streak'

Midfielder Kevin McDonald has hinted that Fulham will show their "nasty streak" in order to secure victory over Aston Villa in the Championship playoff final.

On Saturday evening, Wembley Stadium will play host to the lucrative showdown between the two clubs, who are both looking to earn a place in next season's Premier League.

Fulham have impressed with their attacking football throughout the campaign, but McDonald has suggested that the Cottagers are prepare to win ugly against their West Midlands opponents.

The 29-year-old is quoted by the Daily Star as saying: "We've got to have a nasty streak about us. I'm sure Aston Villa will have that. They will be up for the fight.

"I think on the ball we play nice football, but we have to work hard to win the ball back and be the first to the ball. It goes a bit unnoticed but we press really well. No-one sees that because we are on the ball a lot of the time, but we can't turn up and expect to be on the ball. If we do, we'll get beat.

"We have to earn the right to play. We have to have that fight and determination and do whatever it takes. We will try to win it, keep it and make them run. Tire them out."

Fulham finished one place and five points ahead of Villa in the second-tier standings.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/mcdonald-fulham-have-got-a-nasty-streak_326779.html

 
Championship play-off final: Fulham are better than Aston Villa but in Wembley pressure cooker it might not matter

Scott Minto's EFL column: No one can argue they don't deserve to be there but only one can now win the £170 million game

It is the Championship play-off final most neutrals wanted. The might of Aston Villa against Fulham, the team that is most beautiful to watch. Not many can argue they don't deserve to be there. They were the two best teams in the semi-finals and of course they finished third and fourth in the table.

I wondered whether Fulham had the mentality to get past Derby. They certainly scoffed at the idea of Plan B after the first leg, just do Plan A better was the motto. No doubt the timing of the Ryan Sessegnon goal early in the second half of the second leg changed everything. But they were the better side and more importantly showed they were mentally strong enough to get through.

Aston Villa have had to deal with that type of pressure all season and after a very tough start, have dealt with it so well. All that is down to Steve Bruce. Not many managers could have kept his team together while facing the backlash of their supporters in the way he has. Top players were brought in from other Championship clubs but struggled to handle the expectation that comes with wearing the Villa shirt. Many are still struggling but Steve has guided the club, one with the stature of being a top eight Premier League side, to within one game of re-joining English football's elite.

The theme so far in this piece has all been about pressure and that is the key to winning this game and achieving promotion. The team that deals with it the best, wins. The team that is able to treat this like any other game and to play their way, wins.

I didn't play in a play-off final game but I did play in an FA Cup final. It was over 20 years ago when the Cup meant more than what it does now and I worked very hard on my mind, sometimes with a sports psychologist but also daily with myself to make sure I was in the right frame of mind. It worked. No negativity, just positive thoughts and not only did we win the cup but I was very happy with my performance.

Straight after this season's play-off semi finals I thought Fulham were the best side of the four, that their swagger was back and I fancied them for promotion. But the more I think about it, as we edge ever closer to the big day, the more I'm thinking it will be harder for Fulham to play their exciting, expansive, risk-taking game on the biggest stage of all, a game worth £170 million, than it will for Villa.

From the starting 11's of both sides from their second legs, 10 of Villa's players have played at Wembley, two from Fulham. Six of Villa's starters have play-off final experience, none from Fulham. This is no ordinary game, this is the richest game in football blowing any comparison in terms of finance with the Champions League final out of the water. On top of all that, Bruce has been promoted twice through the play-offs. He has that knack of winning games when he has to.

Look, if Fulham come with their 'A' game, if Tom Cairney can dominate the ball, if Ryan Sessegnon can pop up in positions that bely his tender age, if Aleksandar Mitrovic continues to terrorise upfront, if Fulham play to their potential then they will win because they are the better side. But I think the experience and know-how of Villa will just about see them through.



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/football-league/championship-playoff-preview-prediction-fulham-aston-villa-scott-minto-column-a8369156.html

 
Rodák: On To Wembley

Marek Rodák is set to play for Rotherham United at Wembley Stadium on Sunday in the League One Play-Off Final, with Shrewsbury Town providing the opposition.

The Millers made it to the national stadium by beating Scunthorpe United 4-2 over the two legs.


"I'm very excited," Rodák told fulhamfc.com. "I'm looking forward to the Final. It's going to be my first time at Wembley. Well, I've watched football games there but it will be my first time on the pitch."

The first leg was away from home and finished 2-2 at Glanford Park. "In the first leg we went ahead twice, and then we conceded two own goals, so that wasn't great.

"However, at the New York Stadium in the second leg we were in control. I made a couple of good saves, I think I did well.

"To be fair, for the first 20 minutes we didn't play well at all, we were quite nervy and they were playing better than us. We just stuck to our game and managed to score two and win it."

Rodák made six saves in the second leg and was singled out for praise by Rotherham manager Paul Warne.

The Millers have faced Shrewsbury twice this season, with both teams winning one apiece.

"I played them away," Rodák stated. "When we played at home I was just coming back from international duty so I was left out.

"We won 1-0, I had a good game that day, hopefully I also have one on Sunday and we do it.


The fans for the second leg, I had never seen them like that in the league.

"There were so many people and it was so much louder than usual. Even after the game, everyone ran on the pitch to celebrate, it was a great day all round. 

"It was one of my best days in football, but hopefully we have an even better one come the weekend."

To reach the Play-Offs, Rotherham went on a long unbeaten run, falling just short of the automatic spots.

"We went something like 17 matches unbeaten at one point of the season, and then we lost 1-0 to Rochdale. Stephen Humphrys scored against me, and to be fair it was a good goal.

"At that time, we won nine in a row, we were looking to try and get second place. After that we lost and drew, and other teams capitalised."

Asked whether he will be watching Fulham's own Play-Off Final, he said: "We train in the morning and then travel down, so 100 per cent I will be watching Fulham. If we're not at the hotel by then I will definitely be watching it on the coach."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/25/rodak-on-to-wembley

 
Fulham FC news: Predicted line-up for Championship play-off final against Aston Villa

Fulham have the chance to win promotion via the play-offs for the first time ever against Aston Villa on Saturday.

The Whites' semi-final victory over Derby was their first in play-off history and they have not been to Wembley since 1975.

History is not on their side, but they are the form team. Their 23-match unbeaten run only recently came to an end as they finished third in the league, playing with the swagger of a team who belong in the top flight.

talkSPORT bring you live commentary of the Championship play-off final on Saturday at 5pm.

In the most recent clash between the two sides, Fulham eased to a comfortable 2-0 win at Craven Cottage, although they were beaten at Villa Park back in October.

Victory in football's most lucrative game would potentially earn as much as £280million for the club.

So, who will Slavisa Jokanovic pick to end a four-year stay in the second tier? talkSPORT's predicted line-up is below.

(https://talksport.com/sites/default/files/screen_shot_2018-05-25_at_14.07.33.png)

(4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Bettinelli

Defence: Fredericks, Odoi, Ream, Targett

Midfield: Cairney, McDonald, Johansen

Forwards: Kamara, Mitrovic, Sessegnon



https://talksport.com/football/fulham-fc-news-predicted-line-championship-play-final-against-aston-villa-180525284047

 
'We deserve to win' Fulham owner's thoughts on play-off final with Aston Villa

Shahid Khan has big plans for his Fulham side

Fulham owner Shahid Khan believes his Fulham side will reap the rewards for their approach to this season with victory over Aston Villa.

The 67-year-old American is confident that his Fulham side are ready for a Premier League return and has big plans for the team if they succeed at Wembley.

Speaking to the London Evening Standard , he discussed the huge game at the weekend and what he expects and hopes for.

He stated: "This has been a hard journey over the last four years but regrettably necessary to rebuild the team the right way.

Fulham owner Shahid Khan believes his Fulham side will reap the rewards for their approach to this season with victory over Aston Villa.

The 67-year-old American is confident that his Fulham side are ready for a Premier League return and has big plans for the team if they succeed at Wembley.

Speaking to the London Evening Standard , he discussed the huge game at the weekend and what he expects and hopes for.

He stated: "This has been a hard journey over the last four years but regrettably necessary to rebuild the team the right way.

White wall

Fulham Football Club have started a campaign urging fans to turn the east side of Wembley into a 'wall of white' for the game against Aston Villa.

Using the hashtag #FFCWhiteWall, the club are telling their 38,000 fans to make sure they are wearing white.

Posting on their website, they explain the campaign.

They state: "The support demonstrated by the Fulham Faithful this season has been nothing short of magnificent.

"Many of the players commented on how incredible the atmosphere was at Craven Cottage in our Play-Off Semi-Final triumph, and there's no doubt it will be even better when 38,000 of you make your way to Wembley this weekend.

"With Fulham taking over the East End of the stadium, we're encouraging you to wear your home colours on Saturday, to create a White Wall. For the players to walk out and see the better part of 40,000 of their fans all wearing white will certainly be a sight to behold.

"Back the boys – wear white!"

It shouldn't be difficult for Fulham to achieve their aim, the club colours are white after all.

Aston Villa fans are also expected to wear their colours.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-v-fulham-wembley-14694925

 
Former Aston Villa man reveals exactly why he thinks they will overcome Fulham tomorrow

Former Aston Villa favourite Dion Dublin believes that Steve Bruce will be the difference tomorrow as Villa look to overcome Fulham to secure a place in the Premier League.

The West Midlands side finished one place behind the Cottagers in the regular season but Dublin reckons Bruce can set Villa up to get the victory at Wembley.

"If he [Steve Bruce] sets them up right, you know you set traps and it could work if they all do it together. I just think Bruce will get it right," the Express & Star reveal he told TalkSPORT.

Dublin, who played over 150 games for Villa, praised the balance that Bruce has in his squad.

"I think he's got a few captains on the pitch, he's got a great balance of seniors and kids and legs and goals."

Should they defeat Fulham tomorrow and return to the top-flight, the former Manchester United man added that it would mean Villa are back to where he feels they belong.

"This is Aston Villa. They're a big club, [and have a] massive following. Should I say the stature of the club deserves to be in the Premier League."

The Verdict

The league table doesn't lie and over the course of a season Fulham were better than Villa, however it will count for nothing tomorrow.

As Dublin says, it's a one-off and it's all about who performs better on the day and Bruce is sure to have a plan to stifle the Cottagers, just as he did with Adama Traore and Middlesbrough.

Then, it's down to the players to execute that and ultimately get the win which is what it's all about.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/former-aston-villa-man-reveals-exactly-why-he-thinks-they-will-overcome-fulham-tomorrow/

 
Fulham striker reveals his footballing heroes

The most expensive game in football takes place tomorrow, as Aston Villa meet Fulham at Wembley in the Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Final.

The game is worth at least £160 million to the winners, with that figure potentially rising to £280 million if they manage to survive their first season back in the Premier League.

Both sides know what is at stake, and will have been preparing all week as they prepare to compete for a spot in the Premier League following their victories in the Semi-Finals.

Aston Villa beat Middlesbrough 1-0 over two legs, with Mile Jedinak scoring the only goal of the tie in the first leg at the Riverside.

Fulham were beaten 1-0 by Derby County at Pride Park in the first leg, but an impressive performance in the return fixture saw them win 2-0, and go through 2-1 on aggregate.

Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic failed to score in the Semi-Finals, but he has played a huge role in Fulham's successes this season since he joined the club on loan from Premier League side Newcastle United.

And the Serbian striker is enjoying his time at the Cottagers, and wants to take them back to the top flight.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: The way I play here is the way I want to play. I always looked at how Alan Shearer and Didier Drogba played, it was almost magic the way they used their body to score goals. Even now I watch some of their goals on YouTube to try and learn from them."



http://the72.co.uk/103426/fulham-striker-reveals-footballing-heroes/

 
Aston Villa v Fulham
SAT 26 May 2018   Championship - Play-off Final
Venue: Wembley Stadium


Aston Villa and Fulham bid to return to the Premier League in a play-off final worth an estimated £280m if the winners survive one season in the top flight.

Villa manager Steve Bruce is aiming to secure a record fifth promotion from the Championship, following previous successes with Birmingham and Hull.

His experienced side ended the regular campaign in fourth as they look to bounce back from relegation in 2016.

Fulham finished third, missing out on automatic promotion by two points.

The Whites, who were beaten play-off semi-finalists last season, have spent four seasons in the Championship since their 13-year stay in the Premier League ended in 2014.

Aston Villa defender Ahmed Elmohamady is recovering from a hamstring injury and could replace James Bree at right-back if the Egyptian is fully fit.

Fulham have no injury worries, but boss Slavisa Jokanovic must decide which of his six loanees to omit from the matchday squad.

Lucas Piazon or fellow forward Sheyi Ojo are the most likely to miss out, with the latter sidelined recently through injury.

Villa back from the doldrums
Bruce was appointed Villa boss in October 2016, taking over after Roberto di Matteo had overseen a difficult start to life in the Championship.

Villa, relegated after 28 years in the top flight, were 19th when the former Manchester United defender was appointed and they went on to finish last season 13th.

Their side is full of experience, epitomised by the signing of 37-year-old former Chelsea and England skipper John Terry last summer.

"Expectation is huge here but that's why I went for experience," Bruce told BBC WM.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of my 19 months here. Can we now top it off by getting where we want to be?"

Villa's last Wembley appearance was 2015, when they lost 4-0 to Arsenal in the FA Cup final, but several players - among them keeper Sam Johnstone, Elmohamady and midfielder Robert Snodgrass - have previously tasted success in play-off finals.

"We have to have a healthy respect for Fulham but not be fearful of them," Bruce, 57, added.

"We have an attacking threat that can cause any team problems.

"We've beaten everybody this season but it's a case of when that big chance comes, can you take it?"

Villa fans looking for omens will also note that Saturday is 36 years to the day that Villa won the European Cup, beating Bayern Munich 1-0 in Rotterdam thanks to Peter Withe's second-half goal.

Resurgent Fulham target final flourish
Jokanovic, who led Watford to second place in the Championship in 2014-15, has guided Fulham to successive top-six finishes in his two full seasons in charge.

The Whites narrowly missed out on automatic promotion, having risen from 12th to third in the table courtesy of a 23-match unbeaten run which ended with defeat on the final day at Birmingham.

Jokanovic, who took charge at Craven Cottage in December 2015, is not worried about his team's relative inexperience as the west London club prepare for their first trip to Wembley since 1975, when they lost the FA Cup final 2-0 to West Ham.

"We're the youngest team," the 49-year-old Serb told BBC Radio London. "We must try to dominate the situation and put them under stress.

"We're probably the team with more energy. Experience in life is important but it's not everything - all of us can make mistakes."

(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/624/cpsprodpb/107BB/production/_101751576_mitrovic.jpg)
Aleksandar Mitrovic has scored 12 goals since joining Fulham on loan from Newcastle in January

Fulham's passing game and style of play has won plaudits, with teenager Ryan Sessegnon picking up several awards after scoring 16 goals this season from the left wing.

But the arrivals of loanees Matt Targett and Aleksandar Mitrovic in January have bolstered the starting XI, with left-back Targett offering balance to the side and Mitrovic providing a physical presence and goal threat which had previously been lacking up front.

"It's a massive challenge ahead of us and we believe in our style," Jokanovic added.

"At the end of two and a half years we have an important chance in front of us, and we will find our best performance."

Match facts
    Fulham are featuring in their first ever play-off final, having previously lost in the semi-finals in 1988-89 (third-tier), 1997-98 (third-tier) and 2016-17 (second-tier), while Aston Villa have reached the final in their first ever play-off campaign.
    Steve Bruce is set to manage in his third play-off final - he has been promoted in both of his previous two, progressing on penalties in 2001-02 as Birmingham manager against Norwich and beating Sheffield Wednesday with Hull in 2015-16.
    Indeed, he's the third manager to manage in three play-off finals in the second tier, after Brian Little (three finals between 1991-92 and 1993-94) and Ian Holloway (2009-10, 2011-12 and 2012-13).
    Bruce has won four promotions to the top flight (2001-02, 2006-07, 2012-13 and 2015-16), a joint-record with Neil Warnock, who achieved his fourth this season with Cardiff.
    These sides both claimed a win apiece in their Championship meetings this season, with Villa winning 2-1 at Villa Park in October and Fulham winning 2-0 at Craven Cottage in February.
    The Cottagers are playing just their second match at Wembley - they lost their previous visit in the 1975 FA Cup final against West Ham.
    Fulham's gap of 15,279 days between playing their first and second matches at Wembley is the third longest in history, after Brentford (19,915 - November 1930 to June 1985) and Southend United (30,073 - December 1930 to April 2013).
    In Fulham's semi-final second leg against Derby, Ryan Sessegnon became the youngest scorer in the history of the second-tier play-offs (17y 360d). The youngest player to score in a second-tier play-off final is Julian Joachim (18y 253d), who scored for Leicester City against Swindon Town in May 1993.
    Only Matej Vydra (21) has scored more Championship goals than Lewis Grabban (20) this season - however, Grabban has played six Championship play-off games previously and failed to score in any, featuring in the 2015 final for Norwich and last season's final for Reading.
    Robert Snodgrass and Ahmed Elmohamady featured in the 2016 Championship play-off final for Steve Bruce's victorious Hull side - Snodgrass assisted Mohamed Diame's winning goal.
    The team scoring first in the Championship play-off final has gone on to win promotion on each of the past six occasions in which the final has not been goalless - the last time a team failed to win having scored first was Cardiff City in 2010 against Blackpool.
    Aston Villa have not faced a shot on target in any of their past three halves of football, since a 40th-minute Daniel Ayala header in the first leg of their play-off semi-final (140 minutes in total).



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/44178427

 
Fulham triumph would keep squad together – Odoi

Fulham must win promotion to the Premier League to have the best chance of keeping their squad together, according to Denis Odoi.

The centre-back says he is not surprised bigger clubs have been linked with players such as Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney, as well as boss Slavisa Jovanovic.

Ahead of the play-off final against Aston Villa at Wembley, Odoi insisted: "With great results and achievements with a club like Fulham, you need to accept there are some even bigger teams interested in our players.

"Like Ryan Sessegnon – you can't expect him to be here for another 10 years. It's something you have to accept and you hope to keep those players for as long as possible, but that's just the way it goes.

"We have had good results and everybody says we play good football. Obviously Slavisa is also getting credit for that.

"If we were bad then maybe he would get fired. If it goes well then it's no surprise other teams would be interested in his job.

"So that's what I've been saying – maybe in terms of players other clubs are interested in, the best option for everybody is to go up with Fulham.

"You wont have to change club, everybody knows you here, your playing style. If you go to a new team, they don't care about who you are.

"I'm pretty sure a lot of Premier league players don't watch the Championship, so you're going to have to start from the bottom again and prove yourself. Whereas if you stay here you will still have to prove yourself on a Premier League level but everybody knows what you can do.

"So for everybody I think it would be the best option to go up together at Fulham."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-triumph-would-keep-squad-together-odoi

 
Southampton: On-loan Targett set for Wembley play-off final

Southampton Left-Back Matt Targett is set for a play-off showdown as his current loan side Fulham face Aston Villa on Saturday evening.

The match at Wembley sees the two sides battle for promotion to the Premier League and winning is reportedly worth around £160m in additional revenue to the victors.

Whichever team comes out on top will join already promoted Wolves and Cardiff City as opponents for Southampton in the top-flight next season.

Targett has made 20 appearances for Fulham since joining from the Saints in January and undoubtedly gained some valuable experience whilst at Craven Cottage.

He has built a good relationship on the left-flank with teenage prodigy Ryan Sessegnon and given the 18-year-old freedom to influence attacks more. Targett has made a good impression in London and produced some strong performances to contribute to the team's excellent campaign.

It will certainly be an interesting dilemma for the 22-year-old if Fulham are to be promoted. He will have a decision to make as to whether he wants to stay with Saints and fight for his place or move on for regular game-time.

Competition at Left-Back at St Mary's and injuries have limited the amount of matches that Targett has played on the South-Coast.

20 appearances in the 2015/16 season were followed by just eight a year later as a Hamstring injury wrote off seven months of his campaign. Ryan Bertrand has always been first pick at full-back too, with Sam McQueen also featuring at times.

Targett has represented England Under-21s 13 times and is highly thought of as a product of the famed Saints youth academy.

He has risen up through the ranks at St Mary's after joining the club at the age of seven and become one of a high percentage of graduates to break into the first-team.

Fulham play an attractive brand of football under manager Slavisa Jokanovic, and this seems to benefit all of their players including Targett. He has good quality when in possession and often produces some pinpoint early crosses for Cottagers frontman Alexsandar Mitrovic.

The clash at Wembley sees the fourth and third placed teams face off, and the result could ultimately determine whether Targett will be an opponent or squad member for Saints in 2018/19.



https://saintsmarching.com/2018/05/25/southampton-loan-targett-set-wembley-play-off-final/

 
Kamara an 'important weapon' for Fulham

Slavisa Jokanovic says he is ready to use Aboubakar Kamara as an "important weapon" in the play-off final against Aston Villa.

Kamara was influential on the right wing in the semi-final second-leg win over Derby and Jokanovic wants to use him to similar effect at Wembley.

Jokanovic, who wants his side to pressure and tire Villa centre-backs John Terry and James Chester, said: "We signed Kamara like a striker, who can play up against the centre-backs.

"I tried to adapt us to use him the best way, but two months ago I explained to him that now this position is covered and we are going to start with Aleksandar Mitrovic, and he needed to open his mind and think about different positions.

"He is a really strong and fast player and we started working with him in different positions, and step-by-step he started to improve himself.

"He played very well against Derby and he is ready for the game and can be an important weapon for our side.

"I cant say who we are going to start with. It"s going to be a long game and we are going to see.

"It's important for us to force them. If we don't make them tired it's going to be easy, especially for their two centre-backs.

"So I am going to try to use my best weapons, and the game can be long so we are going to use the bench too to try and force the situation."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-boss-ready-to-use-important-weapon-against-aston-villa

 
We don't need to be taking Wembley selfies or photos, it's just another game! Oliver Norwood leads Fulham battle cry ahead of play-off final

    Fulham face Aston Villa on Saturday in the Championship play-off final
    Cottagers just missed out on automatic promotion back to the Premier League
    But Slavisa Jokanovic's side now handed second chance in Wembley showdown
    Clash will be the first time Fulham have played at national stadium in 43 years
    However, midfielder Oliver Norwood looking to treat match as a 'normal game'

Fulham owner Shahid Khan may be in talks to buy Wembley - but his players have not been afforded a sneak peak around the national stadium ahead of Saturday's Championship play-off final with Aston Villa.

For many of Slavisa Jokanovic's squad, the chance to soak up the 90,000-seater ground will come only when they arrive a couple of hours before kick-off in the richest game in club football.

Oliver Norwood is one of the lucky ones. The Northern Ireland international has already been to Wembley twice. In 2007 he played for England Under 16s against Spain and eight years later he was a substitute as Reading suffered FA Cup semi-final heartbreak at the hands of Arsenal.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/16/4C9F768C00000578-0-image-a-9_1527261090179.jpg)
Oliver Norwood (left) celebrates Fulham's play-off semi final win over Derby with team-mates

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/16/4C9F655700000578-0-image-a-5_1527260779630.jpg)
Fulham went on a 23-match unbeaten run to only just miss out on automatic promotion

'As a squad it'll be the first time we've been there on Saturday. The gaffer just wants it to be normal - we turn up at the stadium on the day of the game and play,' he tells Sportsmail.

'We haven't been down there but I think a few of the lads have been involved in games there in the past. I've been lucky to be involved in two games there... (but) we just have to turn up, we know what we have to do.' When they are finally given the chance to sample the national stadium, the instructions from Jokanovic will be clear, if well-worn.

'It's just (about) doing what we normally do, what we always do. Don't change anything, don't be having selfies or taking photos of the stadium, just treat it as another normal game.

'You're bound to get nervous, excited and go through the whole range of emotions because there is nothing like it in world football. The Championship play-off final is a massive, massive occasion.

'We know that but it's about staying level-headed and keeping calm and producing the goods on Saturday.' He added: '(The manager's) message has been quite clear that it's just another game.

It's literally just a different pitch with a bigger stadium around it.' That mantra has been carried on to the training pitch this week, where Fulham have taken no special measures to prepare for the huge Wembley playing surface.

They trained as normal before meeting up at the team hotel on Friday. For most of Jokanovic's squad, this will be their time to focus their mind on the task ahead. For Norwood, however, it represents a welcome opportunity to catch up some well-earned kip.

'I can't speak for the others but me personally, it is literally just another game of football - I've been at it since the age of six so a few years ago I may have got a bit nervous but I'm quite lucky to have had a baby boy who's now 15 months old so your perspective on life does change. You do start to realise that it's just another game and there are other things to worry about in the world than a game of football,' he says.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/16/4C9F77C400000578-0-image-a-10_1527261100962.jpg)
Ryan Sessegnon has been a star for Fulham this term as they target a Premier League return

'It's obviously a massive, massive occasion, don't get me wrong, but I'm looking forward to a good night's sleep in the hotel on Friday night with the baby at home!' Norwood had just turned 16 when he first sampled the Wembley atmosphere. Thanks to his dad's performances on the pitch, young Pierce won't have to wait so long.

'He will be going with my wife. It's (his first trip) so hopefully he'll be a good luck charm!' As Pierce takes his seat in the stands, Norwood Snr and his team-mates will be going through their final preparations in the Fulham dressing room.

A place in the top flight - where the London club feel they belong - will be at stake when they walk out on Saturday.

But as tensions rise in the final minutes before kick-off, Steve Bruce's side shouldn't expect to hear any shouting coming from down the corridor.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/16/4C9F797B00000578-0-image-a-11_1527261121173.jpg)
Manager Slavisa Jokanovic as helped transform the Cottagers fortunes since joining in 2015

'You genuinely wouldn't believe some of the music that gets played. You'd think it was all pumped up music getting us ready to go to battle but some of the music in the dressing room is the most chilled out music I've ever heard,' Norwood says.

'It's very relaxed, very calm, the manager doesn't say much. He does his work with us in the week and leaves us to prepare, get ready, get focused on the game.' He adds: 'We don't need ranting and raving before a game, if you can't get yourself up for the play-off final then there is something wrong.' Norwood may only be on loan at the London club from Brighton. But he is no mercenary - his affection for his adopted home is obvious.

'It's a wonderful group of people, the staff and players have a real bond and there's a real bond between the players and fans,' he says.

'They've waited 43 years for a trip to Wembley and hopefully we can provide them with a very happy day on Saturday. We know it's going to be very difficult, we're not expecting to just turn up and play nice football and walk away with the victory. We know we're going have to dig deep at times, Villa are going to put us under pressure, they're a good side with massively experienced players and whoever wins on Saturday will deserve it.'

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/16/4C9F6BBE00000578-0-image-a-8_1527260842244.jpg)
Fulham will play at Wembley for the first time since Bobby Moore's side lost the '75 FA Cup final



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5772085/Oliver-Norwood-leads-Fulham-battle-cry-ahead-play-final-against-Aston-Villa.html#ixzz5GaDved47
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Fulham CEO Alistair Mackintosh reveals how much Reading FC paid for Sone Aluko

READING FC record-signing Sone Aluko cost the club £7m, Fulham CEO Alistair Mackintosh revealed.

Aluko, who has been branded a flop by numerous supporters, joined Reading from then play-off rivals Fulham in 2017.

The 29-year-old's transfer fee was kept undisclosed at the time, but reports suggested it was around the £7.5m mark.

Former Royals boss Jaap Stam insisted the fee was far lower and said Aluko would prove to be a massive benefit to his squad.

In fact, he told Reading FC: "In Sone, we welcome a quality player into our squad. With his pace and ability on the ball, he can make life difficult for every opponent we face this season and he has experience of playing at the level we want to play at.

"He poses a threat going forward, he keeps the ball well, he can play as a striker or out on the wing and I am sure he will improve us as a squad. So I'm very happy that he has chosen to join us."

But former Hull City man Aluko failed to live up to expectations during a lacklustre season at Madejski Stadium.

His two stand-out moments came at opposite ends of the season, a scintillating performance against Derby County and a wondergoal against Queens Park Rangers in Paul Clement's first game in charge.

But the forward often found himself under scrutiny from Reading fans.

Now, as he prepares to watch his former side take on Aston Villa FC in the Championship play-off final at Wembley Stadium this weekend, Fulham CEO Mackintosh revealed why he sold Aluko to Royals.

He was quoted at Fulham Supporters' Trust AGM meeting last week as saying: "Reading's opening offer for Sone Aluko was £1m. (It) eventually rose to £7m. We didn't want to sell but that offer was too good to turn down."

Reading CEO Ron Gourlay recently admitted some of last season's new signings, which include Aluko, did not live up to the club's expectations.

He told the Reading Chronicle: "They (the new signings) were mixed.

"Not helped by some injuries, there is always a settling into the team and style of play.

"I said that we didn't reach the level of quality on performance across the season. It's not about one or two players, it's about a team.

"Against the competition, you have to be united and play as a team, you have to perform to the highest of your ability week in week out or you won't win football games.

"For a number of different reasons we didn't do that."

Aluko scored three goals in 40 appearances for Royals last season.

He is tied down at Madejski Stadium until 2021.



http://www.readingchronicle.co.uk/sport/readingfc/16251327.READING_FC__Royals_forked_out_an_astonishing___7m_for_Sone_Aluko__Fulham_CEO_claims/

 
Aston Villa vs Fulham: Key players in the Championship playoff final

RealSport examine the key players likely to determine who wins promotion to the Premier League.

(https://realsport101.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Wembley_Stadium_illuminated.jpg)
(Photo credit: Rob)

The most expensive game in football: The Championship playoff final.

After beating Derby County in the semi-final, Fulham meet Aston Villa at Wembley on Saturday, looking fight their way back into the Premier League for the first time since 2014. The Villans beat Middlesbrough to reach Wembley, for their fifth Wembley appearance in the last eight years.

Both Fulham and Aston Villa have experience in their ranks, comprising the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic, who helped Newcastle United to promotion last season, and John Terry, making his 31st senior appearance at the national stadium.

RealSport look at the key players likely to have a major impact on Saturday's result.

Aston Villa

    1 John Terry
    The 37-year-old is making his 31st senior appearance at Wembley on the weekend, having lost only four of his 30 previous games at the national stadium, winning eight of his nine games there with previous club Chelsea.

    John Terry is a serial Wembley winner- such experience will prove integral to Villa's chances of winning football's most expensive game.

    John Terry's 2017/18 season:
        31 appearances
        198 clearances
        82 aerial duels won
        18 successful tackles

    The centre back has been a key cog in Steve Bruce's side, but his task this Saturday is to carefully manage the threat of Fulham striker Mitrovic.

    2 Jack Grealish
    Forever on the cusp of taking the next step in his career, behavioural issues have held Jack Grealish back from truly fulfilling his potential.

    However, the Englishman has earned praise for his performances in 2017/18, developing into a key part of Bruce's team, leading Cardiff City boss Neil Warnock to declare him the best player in the Championship.

    Jack Grealish's 2017/18 season:
        25 appearances
        64 take-ons
        47 chances creates
        85% pass completion
        6 assists
        3 goals

    Grealish was the Man of the Match in the first leg victory over Middlesbrough, assisting Mile Jedinak for the only goal of the semi-final and the Villans will expect a repeat performance.

Fulham

    1 Aleksandar Mitrovic
Arriving in January on loan from Newcastle, Mitrovic was a major part of why Fulham reached the playoff final, scoring in 10 of their final 14 Championship games this season.

In that time he netted 12 goals, second only to Mo Salah in terms of English league goals scored since his February debut. However, he is yet to score against Villa despite going unbeaten in his five games against them.

Aleksandar Mitrovic's 2017/18 season:

    15 appearances
    68 shots
    50% shooting accuracy
    12 goals

Mitrovic has a big task ahead of him when he lines up opposite Wembley veteran John Terry, a central defender experienced in handling physically imposing strikers.

    2 Ryan Sessegnon
The left back-cum-left winger has captured the attention of the nation with his fantastic performances at Craven Cottage this season, resulting in links with a host of Premier League clubs.

The 18-year-old was the first-ever Championship player to earn a nomination for the PFA Player of the Year award, whilst he, too, was considered for a call-up to the England World Cup squad.

Ryan Sessegnon's 2017/18 season:

    54 successful take-ons
    49 chances created
    16 goals
    7 assists

With Fulham 1-0 down to Derby after the first leg, Sessegnon inspired the comeback with a goal and an assist in the 2-0 second leg victory.

Despite his youth, Sessegnon is the Cottager's key man and any hope of winning promotion will depend on how he plays. By all accounts, he seems able to handle the pressure.



https://realsport101.com/news/sports/football/aston-villa-vs-fulham-key-players-championship-playoff-final/

 
Aston Villa fans - look what Fulham have done to Wembley

AVFC and Fulham meet in the Championship play-off final on Saturday

Plenty of the Championship play-off final build-up has centred around the two fanbases.

Aston Villa's fans are convinced they'll win the battle in the stands – but Fulham have a secret weapon.

Yes, you guessed it – Fulham have placed a clapper on the seat of every chair in the east end of Wembley stadium.

Villa have been highly critical of their rivals' use of clappers.

The Second City derby at St Andrew's earlier this season will be remembered for Birmingham City fans pelting the Villa players with clappers they'd been provided with.

Fulham tend to use their clappers for the purpose they're designed for.

The general feeling among Fulham players is that the atmosphere at Craven Cottage has improved thanks to the atmosphere-enhancing clappers.

Villa, meanwhile, have always maintained they have no need for clappers.

Villa's marketing manager Adam Lowe said: "This season, the club has doubled down on its commitment to make the fans the heart of everything we do, and this effort has paid dividends.

"Throughout the year Villa Park has been in full voice, away support has been some of the best in the EFL and the results have shown on the pitch.

"We have never felt the need to artificially generate atmosphere with clappers and the like. We know that the Villa fans are more than capable of generating that noise.

"We just want to supplement that with exciting activations that improve fan experience and give a visual element to their support. The fans have responded incredibly well to everything we have done this year and helped carry the side to the biggest game of the season.

"We're fully planning on capitalising on that amazing support at Wembley."



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-fans-look-what-14708108

 
Aleksandar Mitrovic comments on his Newcastle future ahead of Fulham's play-off final with Villa

Newcastle United are willing to sell Aleksandar Mitrovic permanently this summer - so they will be cheering Fulham on at Wembley

Aleksandar Mitrovic admits he does not know where his long-term future lies - but the Newcastle United striker is not ruling out a permanent move to Fulham.

The Cottagers take on Aston Villa at Wembley in the Championship play-off final on Saturday, when they will have a one-off opportunity to clinch a lucrative spot in the Premier League for next season.

If they do, then the Cottagers will likely use some of the £120million-plus windfall to try and sign Mitrovic permanently this summer.

Rafa Benitez is looking to offload Mitrovic and Newcastle are expected to demand between £15m-£20m for the forward's services.

(https://i2-prod.chroniclelive.co.uk/incoming/article14659226.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Fulham-v-Derby-County-Sky-Bet-Championship-Play-Off-Semi-FinalSecond-Leg.jpg)
Aleksandar Mitrovic (Image: Getty Images Europe)

Fulham would like to keep the Serbia international in west London regardless of whether they are promoted, but winning the play-off final will certainly increase their chances of acquiring the 23-year-old on a permanent basis.

Mitrovic, however, is likely to wait until after he represents Serbia at the World Cup this summer before deciding on where he believes his future lies.

"I've loved my time here and I don't know what's going to happen after. But why not stay? Maybe," Mitrovic told Sky Sports.

"I want to focus on the game on Saturday, then I have time to rest and focus on the World Cup.

"I needed the gametime so that's why I came here. I needed to be on the pitch, to score goals and to have the feeling that I have now.

"I needed to get confidence - especially because of the World Cup, but also because of myself.

"I feel good and honestly I have never been in better shape in the whole of my career."

(https://i2-prod.chroniclelive.co.uk/incoming/article14591845.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Fulham-v-Sunderland-Sky-Bet-Championship.jpg)
Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrates at the end of the match between Fulham and Sunderland (Image: Getty Images Europe)

Mitrovic has scored 12 goals in just 16 starts for the west London club since moving to the capital on loan in January, which is why Fulham are so keen to sign him permanently.

But, given that the Cottagers are far from the only admirers of Mitrovic - Marseille, Bordeaux, Anderlecht, Brighton and Hove Albion, and Wolverhampton Wanderers have all scouted the forward at various points over the past 12 months - United hope to start a potential bidding war for the striker's signature.

Working closely with fellow Serbian Slavisa Jokanovic in west London has helped Mitrovic improve his all-round game, and he believes Fulham play to his strengths, too.

"I'm already now three years in England, I'm settled, I know what to expect. Every game here is a war," Mitrovic added.

"I had to make my body stronger, to get more physical and I think now I've learned how to use all of my strength in the right way.

"This style of football is perfect for all players that we have. The manager uses them in the best way."

(https://i2-prod.chroniclelive.co.uk/incoming/article14614255.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Fulham-v-Sunderland-Sky-Bet-Championship-Craven-Cottage.jpg)
Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrates scoring for Fulham (Image: PA)

In January, Mitrovic agreed to re-join former club Anderlecht on loan - only for the move to fall through with just hours of the mid-season window remaining.

Luckily Fulham had an interest in taking the forward on loan, so Mitrovic sent Jokanovic a WhatsApp message before rushing through the paper work to seal a transfer to Craven Cottage.

"I texted him [Jokanovic] and we had a chat the day before transfer-deadline day. Then in the morning I texted him again and told him that I had finished everything with Anderlecht," Mitrovic said of his last-gasp move to Fulham.

"But then that didn't happen, and in just 15 to 20 minutes we had to get everything done [to complete my move] to Fulham. It was really stressful but, in the end, it finished unbelievably for me."



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aleksandar-mitrovic-comments-newcastle-future-14707371

 
2018 Playoff Final Preview

Saturday's game is the eighth playoff final I've covered for this blog.

Before we go any further, I have to warn any Fulham fans that I don't have a great record of accurately predicting the outcome of this game.

Aston Villa v Fulham

(Saturday 5pm kickoff, Sky Sports Football/Main Event will begin broadcasting at 4pm)

Statistically I always treat this as an away game for both teams and there's a big difference between them in this respect.

Aston Villa

Last ten aways: 5-1-4, 14-9. Five clean sheets, failed to score in four games.

Don't read too much into those numbers. Only two of those five wins were recorded against teams that finished in the top ten and Villa's away record against the other teams in the top six was worse than that. Although their win at Middlesbrough in the first leg of the semi final duplicated the result at the Riverside at the end of December, it's worth remembering that they only picked up 13 away points from 33 available against the other clubs in the top half of the Championship and Steve Bruce's side failed to beat Brentford, Derby and Millwall either at home or away. Indeed, Preston had a better overall away record than Villa.

Villa have been pretty settled this season – four players have appeared in 40 or more games – and their main sources of goals are Albert Adomah and Conor Hourihane, who have scored 25 times between them this season. A note of caution here: Adomah hasn't scored away from Villa Park in the league since mid-November and hasn't scored at all since the start of February. He's currently 3/1 in the 'anytime goalscorer' market.

Fulham

Last ten aways: 6-2-2, 16-9. Three clean sheets, failed to score in one game.

This season Fulham's away record against the other teams in the top six was far better than Villa's. The Cottagers earned nine more away points against the teams in the top half of the table than their opponents did (only Wolves had a better record on the road this season), but interestingly one of the reasons Fulham are playing in the final rather than watching it is that they failed to beat either Brentford or Bristol City this season. It's also interesting to note that Fulham are going into the final having not won on the road since beating Millwall in April: they haven't lost three away games in the Championship since the end of 2014.

As you might expect, Fulham have also been settled this season: six of their squad have made 40 or more appearances this season including the phenomenal teenage 'defender' Ryan Sessegnon, who has an extremely bright future ahead of him regardless of whether he stays at Craven Cottage or not. The arrival of Serbian international striker Aleksandar Mitrovic from Newcastle at the start of February was an inspired managerial move by fellow Serb Slavisa Jokanovic: unlike Albert Adomah, Sessegnon and Mitrovic have both scored away goals recently and are first and second favourites in the 'anytime goalscorer' market.

Head to head

This is where it starts looking ominous for Villa. They've only won three of their last ten games against Fulham and only two of the last six.

Random stats

I'll be returning to this theme in a moment, but the last five finals have produced a grand total of just four goals in 90 minutes with two going to extra time. The last time both teams scored in the final was six years ago when West Ham beat Blackpool.

This is the first final between teams that have finished 3rd and 4th in the final table since 2015, when Norwich beat Middlesbrough. Generally speaking, the higher placed team have won half of the last ten finals.

Six of the last ten playoff winners have won at least 80 points, including five of the last six. In four of the last six finals, both teams have won at least 80 points. That's significant – as is the fact that no team over the last decade has reached the final having won more points than Fulham did this season.

Verdict

As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, I picked Fulham for promotion before 2017/18 began so I can't go against them now. One thing that may go in their favour is that the weight of expectation on Aston Villa – who have never appeared in a playoff final – may be too much: Steve Bruce played down reports of a 'feisty' training session earlier this week – which is odd, considering how Villa 'won' the Fair Play title in the Championship this season.

However, I do think there will be a few goals in this game. Nobody scored more away goals than Fulham this season – nine more than Villa – but eight teams (including Villa themselves) conceded fewer away from home than Fulham did.

In their away games this season, Villa have vulnerable in the fifteen minutes after half time: just over a third of the goals they've conceded on their travels have been scored during that period. However, almost a quarter of the goals they've scored have come between the 61st and 75th minute.

It's the final 15 minutes that could be explosive. Fulham have scored 35% of their away goals in that period. However the Cottagers are defensively vulnerable at the end of each half whilst Villa often go on a defensive footing during that period: indicates that it might come down to Fulham looking for a late winner and seeing how the Villa defence holds up.



http://www.buzzinchampionshipfootball.co.uk/2018-playoff-final-preview/4359

 
Our Expert Tipster Predicts A Cagey Affair In The Championship Play-Off Final As Fulham Face Aston Villa

Steve Bruce was forced to cut a 'feisty' training session short on Tuesday because his Aston Villa players were snapping into tackles and getting a little too carried away by the competition for places. His concern wasn't anybody getting hurt, more the fear that this band of highly-seasoned pros might be overcooked by Saturday.

The intensity was too much, too soon, so Bruce deemed it necessary to put them back on the leash. And that should serve as stark warning to Fulham about what to expect here because this isn't a team that's going to freeze on the big stage or be overwhelmed by what's at stake. In terms of previous Wembley appearances, the Midlanders outnumber the Cottagers by 59 to 2.

That landslide isn't all down to 37-year-old John Terry. Eleven of the 14 possible starters in the Villa ranks have played at the national stadium before, 10 of whom have sampled both victory and defeat, while six have been involved in play-off finals. Bruce himself returns for the fourth time in three years, having won this fixture two years ago with Hull.

So Fulham might dominate ball and territory, as they always do, but that doesn't guarantee serenity where it matters most: in both penalty boxes. The come-from-behind 2-1 aggregate win over Derby went some way towards easing concerns about mental fragility but it's no small matter that they required 111 minutes to level things up.

Villa kept two clean sheets in their semi-final, against a Middlesbrough side that had netted 27 goals in their previous 14 matches, restricting them to just two shots on target across the two legs. They were in control throughout, against stronger opposition, and never seemed remotely anxious at any stage, so they appeal as underdogs here.

The 1-0 correct score has copped in five out of 11 finals since Wembley re-opened in 2007, a bet landed three times by outsiders. Villa might create fewer chances from open play but they pose the bigger threat at set plays. If they find the breakthrough at any stage, no matter how early, they are streetwise enough to close the game out.

Recommended bets:

1pt Aston Villa to win at 5/2

1pt Aston Villa 1-0 correct score at 8/1



https://www.thesportsman.com/articles/our-expert-tipster-predicts-a-cagey-affair-in-the-championship-play-off-final-as-fulham-face-aston-villa

 
Aston Villa v Fulham: The defensive stalwarts looking to guide their side to the top flight


Football League World's FLW Duels feature is brought to you by 5p0rtz.com – try 5p0rtz.com's World Cup Pool Predictor for free and you could win £1million! Click here to play.

The play-off final between Aston Villa and Fulham takes centre stage tomorrow afternoon as they clash with the final promotion spot at stake.

Finishing third and fourth in the league respectively, it seems as though it's only right that the two meet at the National Stadium tomorrow and there's set to be match-ups across the field.

With that said, the two defences will need to be on their mettle and, with that in mind, we're taking a closer look at how John Terry and Tim Ream's stats compare from the campaign.

Terry, of course, has been inducted into certain Teams of the Year this season but, arguably, Ream can feel aggrieved that he's seemingly been so overlooked this season.

Indeed, looking at the stats it's the Fulham man who just about edges things – though Terry's stats are still good.

Certainly, both will be key in their side's respective challenges tomorrow with the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Lewis Grabban on the prowl, and it might just be Fulham who have the defensive edge.

Much, as it has been all season, will be made of Villa's defence ahead of the game but with these stats in mind the Lilywhites can go into the game confident they can keep the Villans quiet.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/aston-villa-v-fulham-the-defensive-stalwarts-looking-to-guide-their-side-to-the-top-flight/

 
Three Key Battles To Watch Out For As Villa Face Fulham

There will be a number of individual battles tomorrow that we will have to win if we going to come out on top against Fulham.

Ahead of our date with destiny, I have decided to highlight a few of the more important ones:

1) Elmohamady/Bree v Sessegnon

Our no.27 trained on Wednesday and Thursday, while Steve Bruce has confirmed he will be given a "thorough" workout today before deciding on whether he will start tomorrow.

The Egyptian's experience will be key to keeping Ryan Sessegnon quiet on our right-hand side. James Bree did a decent job in the second leg against Middlesbrough, but it was telling that Steve Bruce chose to switch Alan Hutton to mark Adama Traore when the Spaniard moved to Bree's side in the second half.

Unlike the Boro winger, Fulham's no.3 does have an end product, and it will be very interesting to see what the manager does if Elmo is not fit.

2) The Midfield Triumvirate

The two teams are very similar in the middle of the park. Kevin McDonald, like Mile Jedinak, will play a screening role, while Johansen and Cairney will venture forward in a similar manner to Hourihane and Grealish

In his press conference on Thursday, Steve Bruce emphasised the importance of possession in tomorrow's game, and the battle in this area will have to be won if we are to wrestle control of the ball, and the match.

If we fail in this area of the pitch, we could be under pressure for long spells.

3) Mitrovic v Terry/Chester

On this one, I have the most confidence we'll come out on top. The Serbian striker thrives being the target man, holding up the ball and laying it off. He brings the quicker players in the Fulham side into play.

Stopping Mitrovic at source is crucial. Former Villa defender Curtis Davies showed how it was done in the first leg for Derby at Pride Park. Both Chester and certainly our captain are more than capable and should have what it takes to snuff out the forward's threat.



https://astonvilla.vitalfootball.co.uk/three-battles-to-watch-out-for-as-villa-face-fulham/

 
Why Fulham is the right place for Tom Cairney & how those West Ham links were 'confidence boost'

The skipper has always been adamant it's his dream to get promoted with Fulham, and he'll have that chance on Saturday at Wembley

Tom Cairney has made it no secret just how much he wants to captain Fulham back to the Premier League.

It has been a two-year project to get the side to where they are now - last season ended in disappointment at Reading but the side are now 90 minutes away from a place back in the top flight.

Aston Villa stand in their way, though.

Steve Bruce's side is full of experience, with players like John Terry and Robert Snodgrass having been here and done it before, while Fulham are fresher to the Wembley scene.

Cairney has enjoyed a wonderful few years at Craven Cottage, becoming one of the hottest properties in the Football League, but those performances led to transfer rumours in January that he was heading for the exit door in west London.

But fast forward five months and the 27-year-old is about to lead his side out at Wembley Stadium, and Cairney believes if they manage to do it, Fulham will be a Premier League side for a long time to come.

Speaking to SkyBet and David Prutton, he said: "I just want to get back into the Premier League, I just want to do that with Fulham so badly and I think when the rumours over the transfer in January and I signed a contract extension in the summer - I did that for a reason.

"I believe this club, if we get to the Premier League, we'll stay there a long time, I think with the owners and how ambitious they are - he's doing the try before you buy!

"I just think we'd attract players to Fulham, being in London and the Premier League and I think Fulham would want to do that."

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14705121.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Fulham-Play-off-Final-Preview-Day-Motspur-Park.jpg)
(Image: Victoria Jones/PA Wire)

Those rumours could've distracted other players and the side - not only was Cairney being touted for a move, but Ryan Fredericks and Ryan Sessegnon were both being linked with transfers away.

Slavisa Jokanovic, the side's cool-headed head coach, was probably the only person not talking about those moves, however.

While Cairney took it as a confidence boost that he was being linked with Premier League clubs, Jokanovic didn't address the issue with his skipper at all - he didn't need to, as Cairney explains.

"It wasn't tough, I just took it as a confidence boost that I'm doing something right.

"The manager never said a word and never addressed it - he didn't say anything but he didn't need to and I knew what the plan was and the task ahead and now I'm 90 minutes away from maybe completing it."

Jokanovic has a reputation for being an intimidating character - when you see him prowling the touchline at the Cottage on a macthday it's perhaps easy to see why.

But he'll probably have the coolest head of everyone at Wembley on Saturday when Villa and Fulham do battle, with his demeanour of not feeling pressure an important part of the play-off final matchday experience.

And after the play-off semi final victory over Derby County, Cairney has revealed Jokanovic even managed to crack a smile.

"He smiled, he came in and said 'well done, see you Thursday' and it was like 'cheers'.

"Nah, he was happy, you could tell, and the staff we delighted too because we did it our way and we had lost the first leg and people were saying we needed to play different but we stuck to our guns and what we believe in and because we won the way we did the staff were delighted too."

The scenes after that game were ones that Craven Cottage haven't seen for a long time - Denis Odoi was carried to the changing rooms by fans while Marcus Bettinelli was hoisted up onto shoulders waving a black and white flag.

Some in the Villa camp weren't impressed, however, with Conor Hourihane saying after Villa's victory in their semi final that they'll remember the Fulham celebrations, branding it as looking like 'they'd just won the league'.

But that's something Cairney dismisses - he feels the celebrations were due to relief and that Fulham deserve their chance at Wembley on Saturday afternoon.

"We went crazy and I think, it was such a weird feeling, it was more relief because we celebrated but weren't celebrating like we had won the thing," he added.

"It was relief really because of the year before, because of the last day of the season and we gave ourselves that chance.

"It's been a two-year project and I think the team deserves it and deserve to go to Wembley and have a chance to get into the Premier League."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-right-place-tom-cairney-14704977

 
HOT OR NOT: Ryan Sessegnon proves to a fine young man as well as player while Michel Platini's World Cup claim exposes him as a dreadful person

    Ryan Sessegnon has kept his feet on the ground even as his reputation takes off
    The Fulham left back washed his own kit and returned it to the club after a delay
    Alastair Cook assures himself of his England place with a useful 70 at Lord's
    Michel Platini says World Cup 1998 schedule was fixed, and no one is surprised

It's Hot or Not time again as Sportsmail's Ian Ladyman reveals what's been making him feel warm and what's been leaving him cold this week.

HOT

Ryan Sessegnon

The teenage left back is expected to join Tottenham this summer if Fulham do not win the Championship play-off final on Saturday.

If he does go, Mauricio Pochettino will gain a fine player and a fine young man.

Delayed by a drugs test after a recent game, the 18-year-old took his kit home and washed and ironed it before returning it to the club the next day.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/20/4C9F77C400000578-5772989-image-a-73_1527277492976.jpg)
Ryan Sessagnon is expected to leave Fulham for Tottenham if they fail to win promotion

Gary Rowett

Stoke's new manager was treated so badly when sacked by Birmingham that he cannot be blamed for putting himself first now.

But having left Derby for the Potteries only months after signing a new contract at Pride Park, he probably needs to get this job right.

Alastair Cook

The former England captain's longevity is admirable and his 70 in the team's first dig at Lord's was valuable.

That knock will probably keep him in the England team all summer — and that probably says as much about the competition as it does about him.

NOT

Michel Platini

The disgraced former UEFA president claimed the draw for the 1998 World Cup was rigged so France and Brazil could meet in the final — and there was a time when such a claim would have sent shockwaves through football.

But Platini's reputation has sunk so low that nobody really knows, or cares, whether he is telling the truth.

Platini was a magnificent footballer and it is tragic that he has turned out to be such a dreadful human being. Sometimes it is best to remember people for what they were rather than for what they have become.

Willian

The Brazilian is a gifted player and it's a mystery why Antonio Conte didn't play him more.

By so obviously erasing the Chelsea coach from an FA Cup celebration picture on his Instagram page, Willian made his feelings very clear.

Conte's successor at Stamford Bridge would be foolish to overlook him, if another talented player isn't to go on to experience success elsewhere.

Social Media Obsession

En route to Kiev, three former Liverpool team-mates sat in a business lounge at Munich before an appearance in a 'legends game' in Ukraine.

Instead of chatter and talk of the old days, they spent two hours staring at their mobile phone screens. Whoever called it 'social media' was utterly wrong.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5772989/HOT-NOT-Ryan-Sessagnon-proves-fine-young-man.html#ixzz5GaNsWuG2
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The £170m roll of the dice: Blow it at Wembley and Fulham could lose their star man Ryan Sessegnon and boss Slavisa Jokanovic

    Fulham could lose the core of their highly coveted squad if they lose on Saturday
    They face Aston Villa in the £170million Championship play-off final at Wembley
    Players like Ryan Sessegnon and Tom Cairney could head for the exit if they lose
    Manager Slavisa Jokanovic could also leave if they fail to secure promotion

The Championship play-off final on Saturday may be billed as the £170million match but for Fulham and owner Shahid Khan, the trip to Wembley is worth much more.

If Fulham fail to secure a place in the Premier League, they risk losing the core of their highly coveted squad, as well as manager Slavisa Jokanovic.

Captain Tom Cairney is tipped to move on, teenage starlet Ryan Sessegnon is wanted by the big clubs and Aleksandar Mitrovic will have offers.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/20/4C86FAB000000578-0-image-a-39_1527277347018.jpg)
Fulham could lose Ryan Sessegnon and others if they fail to beat Aston Villa on Saturday

Jokanovic is admired by Chelsea, among other clubs, and Khan is well aware of all this as he prepares to visit the premises he is attempting to purchase.

Those close to the billionaire owner say he is not thinking about the money. What Khan really wants is a seat at the Premier League's top table.

Jokanovic is similarly hungry for success and the Serb said when asked about Fulham potentially becoming a global brand: 'First of all, I am not thinking about money I do not have in my pocket.

'Secondly, my owner is a rich enough guy. I don't think we are going to save his life with these few million pounds. I am really motivated because what I am thinking about is being successful.'

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/20/4C9F797B00000578-0-image-a-25_1527276983991.jpg)
Manager Slavisa Jokanovic (R) and captain Tom Cairney (L) have been tipped to move on

Jokanovic gave Aston Villa counterpart Steve Bruce an easy team-talk with some eye-catching views of his team.

'They are an old and tired team and they are going to show some weaknesses,' Jokanovic said.

'Steve Bruce knows how to protect his defensive line, but we know we can put them under pressure and cause damage.'

Jokanovic also had a warning for Villa veteran John Terry, 37.

'Terry has played so many games at Wembley, but we are going to put him under pressure from strong and fast players, and we hope he can make some mistakes,' he said.

When Jokanovic took over three years ago, he was not tasked with promotion to the Premier League, rather to avoid dropping into League One.

The 49-year-old led Watford to the top flight earlier in 2015 but never got to manage there as his deal expired that summer and was not extended.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/newpix/2018/05/25/20/4C9F77C400000578-0-image-a-40_1527277352094.jpg)
Fulham's teenage wonderkid Sessegnon is being scouted by some of the top clubs in England

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Jokanovic is admired by Chelsea but the manager insists he isn't thinking about his future

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He has a year left on his current contract at Craven Cottage. Win on Saturday, and Fulham sources say a new and improved one may follow.

'I'm not thinking about my future,' Jokanovic said. 'I am not thinking about the players' future. I am not thinking about the Premier League. I am only thinking about the game. Tickets are sold out. I am sure we will find a white wall at Wembley that will push, be noisy.'

Sessegnon, the 18-year-old who scored 15 goals in the Championship this season, is the one who will be chased the most this summer. Fulham know it too.

This week a story circulated where he once went for a drug test following a night match then returned to the changing room to find the squad had left, including the kit-man.

So he took his shirt, shorts and socks home, washed them, ironed them, then brought them back the following day. It showed his level of maturity and Jokanovic insists on calling him a man, not a boy.

'I try to avoid calling this man a kid, because he is in an important business and what he is doing, normally kids cannot do,' he said. 'This man doesn't make mistakes. He is focused, concentrated and he wants to be successful.'

Fulham's players are hungry to get to the Premier League. One way or another, a few of them will there next season.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5773011/Fulham-lose-Ryan-Sessegnon-manager-Slavisa-Jokanovic-fail-beat-Aston-Villa.html#ixzz5GaP34FlE
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Fulham playoff final: 'If we can deal with the pressure, I think we'll win' - Tom Cairney
FOR Frank Sinatra, read Tom Cairney. The leader of the Fulham Rat Pack may not be able to croon 'My Way' like Ol' Blue Eyes, but the mantra is the same – if Fulham earn promotion today, it will be done their way or not at all.

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Tom Cairney has urged his Fulham teammates to stick to their passing style of play

Scotland international Cairney, 27, loves his role as the fulcrum of one of the best passing sides witnessed in Sky Bet Championship history and he is adamant that the style will not be compromised against Aston Villa.

Cairney said: "If we can deal with the amount of people at Wembley and we can play our game under the pressure of the game, I think we'll win.

"It's a huge pitch and if it's wet, then I'd say it suits our football. We'll look to dominate the ball and if we do that, I think we'll create a lot of chances.

"The manager Slavisa Jokanovic takes a lot of responsibility off us. The way we play is quite un-Championship-like. We play out from the back which can be risky.

"But he always tells us that if we make mistakes, he pays the bill, which is brilliant and takes a lot of pressure off us.

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Tom Cairney has been Fulham's permanent captain since Scott Parker left in 2017

"He and the staff were happy after the semi-final against Derby because we did it our way. We had lost the first leg and I can remember reading where people said we had to play differently. But we stuck to our guns and what we believe in."

Listening to Cairney, it is clear how much respect Jokanovic commands among his players, even if the Serb is not exactly the most expressive of managers.

Cairney added: "After the Brentford game a couple of months ago when we conceded an equaliser in the last 10 seconds, you might expect the manager to go absolutely mental, throwing everything around, bottles, the lot.

"But he's the opposite. He just sat there for 10 minutes in the dressing room not really doing anything. That's just the way he is.

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Slavisa Jokanovic's Fulham beat Aston Villa 2-0 in February

"Then after the semi-final win against Derby, the players were going crazy in the dressing room. He just came in and said: 'Well done. See you Thursday." That was it. He did smile, though, and you could tell he was happy.

"He knows what he wants from each individual and he reminds you of that before you go out every match."

Cairney has been doing it his way ever since being released by Leeds at the age of 16. Hull City gave him a second chance, one which has fuelled his career ever since.

He added: "That feeling I had when Leeds released me at 16 was always: 'It's the wrong decision, I will show you.' That's been my driver ever since it happened.

"I think that's why I score so many goals against Leeds. I was there from seven until 16 so they had a massive part of my life and I gave everything towards that club.

"Every player walking out at Wembley on Saturday has got to believe that they should be there. That's how you perform."



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/965170/Fulham-playoff-final-Tom-Cairney-rallies-teammates-for-Wembley-showdown

 
'You are going to have to see everybody's last drop of sweat': Aston Villa's Mile Jedinak labels Championship play-off final against Fulham a 'sliding doors' moment

    Mile Jedinak is aware how different the financial landscape will look for the club
    Aston Villa face Fulham on Saturday in £170million Championship play-off final
    Significant cutbacks are expected with another season in the second tier

Mile Jedinak has called the Championship play-off final a 'sliding doors' moment for Aston Villa.

The midfielder is aware how different the financial landscape will look for the club in the Premier League should they win the £170million match.

Conversely, significant cutbacks are expected with another season in the second tier.

'It is a cross roads moment in every aspect,' said Jedinak. 'Sliding doors, it can go one of two ways.

'I can't speak for everybody but that motivates me. I use that on the field to make sure I'm doing everything I possibly can.

'You are going to have to see everybody's last drop of sweat. It's a bigger stake but that makes it even more exciting.'



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5773293/Mile-Jedinak-labels-Championship-play-final-sliding-doors-moment.html#ixzz5GaQURvjm
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Fulham playoff final: Slavisa Jokanovic urges his players to seize their chance at Wembley
SLAVISA JOKANOVIC has drilled into his Fulham glory seekers just how important Saturday's Championship playoff final is for him, the team, the club and the fans.

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Slavisa Jokanovic has rallied his Fulham players ahead of their trip to Wembley

"It's a massive challenge," said the Fulham manager. "the opportunity to be once again be part of the best league in the world."

Fulham suffered the heartbreak of losing in the play-off semi-finals last season after storming up the table to qualify.

They know how vital it is they do not fail again after making a similar exciting challenge before eventually finishing third.

It's a second chance few teams enjoy and Jokanovic, who is attracting the attention of clubs like Chelsea, said: "It is very necessary we show our best face at Wembley, so we are ready for everything.

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Slavisa Jokanovic's side went on a 23-game unbeaten run during the Championship season

"It is not important that we have been made favourites, that means nothing, but there is pressure, we must make sure it does not become negative.

"I have played some important games in my life but this is the biggest."

Fulham captain Tom Cairney earlier revealed the laidback nature of his side's Serbian manager.

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Tom Cairney has praised his manager before the Wembley showdown

"The manager Slavisa Jokanovic takes a lot of responsibility off us. The way we play is quite un-Championship-like. We play out from the back which can be risky.

"But he always tells us that if we make mistakes, he pays the bill, which is brilliant and takes a lot of pressure off us.

"He and the staff were happy after the semi-final against Derby because we did it our way. We had lost the first leg and I can remember reading where people said we had to play differently. But we stuck to our guns and what we believe in."



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/965320/Fulham-playoff-final-Slavisa-Jokanovic-urges-his-players-to-seize-their-chance-at-Wembley

 
Slavisa Jokanovic: Fulham will target John Terry in play-off final

Slavisa Jokanovic, the Fulham manager, has vowed to deploy his "best weapons" against Aston Villa as he looks to target 37-year-old John Terry in Saturday's Championship play-off final.

Jokanovic hopes his young forwards will be able to exhaust Terry and defensive partner James Chester in a game in which Fulham expect to dominate possession.

The Fulham manager fielded an energetic front three of Aleksandar Mitrovic, Ryan Sessegnon and Aboubakar Kamara, none of whom are older than 23, in their 2-0 semi-final victory over Derby County last week.

"If you don't make them tired, it will be easy for them," said Jokanovic of Villa's experienced defensive pairing. "I will try to use my best weapons at the end, the game can be long. And I am going to be ready on the bench too for what can be interesting situations."

The powerful Mitrovic, whose loan move from Newcastle United ends after this game, has scored 12 goals since joining Fulham at the end of the January transfer window.

"He [Mitrovic] is a strong man and probably we need to make Terry move a little bit more, to stop him having the opportunity to use all his experience," said Jokanovic, who played with Terry at Chelsea in the early 2000s. "It is going to be a great challenge. A Premier League striker against two Premier League centre-backs."

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Jokanovic wants to make Aston Villa's defenders 'tired' Credit: PA

Fulham have become known for their attractive brand of football under Jokanovic, but the 49-year-old insisted his side is capable of "parking the bus" if required.

"We trust if we follow the style we have followed for these two years, we will be more close to winning the game," Jokanovic said.

"It is not a question about aesthetics. It is not a question of showing how we play very good football. We know it is only important to win the game.

"My team will try to perform well and try to find our style to have more opportunity to win the game. If we need for the last 15 minutes to park the bus on the 18-yard box, we are going to do it. But we cannot do it at the beginning because this way cannot guarantee us to be successful.

"I believe that if we are confident for doing what we do always, we are going to have more chances to win the game."

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Fulham have young, vibrant attackers Credit: pa

The winner of the the final, which has been dubbed 'the richest game in football', will receive at least £160m in revenue following promotion to the Premier League.

For Fulham, there is also the question of what will happen to the club if they do not achieve promotion this time around. They will no longer receive parachute payments from the Premier League next season and are likely to lose a series of key figures if they remain in the Championship.

Captain Tom Cairney has interested a number of Premier League clubs and teenage sensation Ryan Sessegnon would command a hefty transfer fee. There is also unease over the future of Jokanovic, who could be targeted by a top-flight club in the summer.

Jokanovic gained promotion with Watford in 2015 but left the club before he had the opportunity to manage in the Premier League.

"I have more connection with this club than with Watford," he said. "These are memories, and it is behind me. I was really happy there and now I must continue to live my life and push myself and people around me to be successful."



https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2018/05/25/slavisa-jokanovicfulham-will-target-john-terry-play-off-final/

 
Who are more American; Fulham or Aston Villa?

Prince v Michael Jackson, the Fulham v Villa celeb war

Fulham were once jokingly known as Fulham USA because of the American players at the Craven Cottage club. But Saturday's opponents Aston Villa are not without their own American connection. So which side should Americans root for?

Fulham had two American strikers on their books in the 90s, Brian McBride and Clint Dempsey McBride played from 2004 – 2009, making 140 appearances and scoring 33 goals. Sounders FC's Dempsey played from 2007-2012, playing 184 games and achieving a notable 50 goals.

In 2007, he was involved in an aerial collision with now Villa captain John Terry (then of Chelsea) during a West London derby at Stamford Bridge. Dempsey was accused of using an elbow but referee Martin Atkinson did not report the incident to the FA although Terry had to eventually leave the field because of it. Despite that, or more likely because of it, Dempsey is well remembered at Craven Cottage. The two goals he scored against Chelsea the next year doubtless help.

Nowadays, Fulham have defender Tim Ream once of the New York Red Bulls. He also enjoys scoring in West London derbies, scoring his first goal for the club in a 2–1 loss against Queens Park Rangers on October 1, 2016. Californian midfielder Luca de la Torre has been on Fulham's books since 2016 and has made five league appearances this year.

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Clint Dempsey is still fondly remembered in Fulham

Six other Americans have played for the club, three of whom like Dempsey also have a Sounders connection; goalkeepers Marcus Hahnemann (1999-2002) and Kasey Keller (2007-2008), as well as forward Eddie Johnson (2008-2011). The others are Eddie Lewis (2000-2002), Carlos Bocanegra (2004-2008) and Emerson Hyndman (2011-2016).

Four high profile Americans have played for Villa; Michael Bradley (3 games on loan), Brad Guzan (144 appearances), Brad Friedel (114 games) and Eric Lichaj (32 games).

OWNERS

If Fulham have the advantage on the playing side, Villa had one of the English game's most recognisable American owners, Randy Lerner. In August 2006,  Lerner bought 59.69% of the club's shares for about $95M (exchange rate of $1.43) and assumed responsibility for another $24M of debt. That purchase included the 39% stake of "Deadly" Doug Ellis, a name synonymous with the olden style authoritarian chairman that had bedeviled English football. Lerner quickly appointed himself Chairman of the Board of the club.

On September 19, Ellis and his board resigned, and were replaced by Lerner as chairman with General Charles C. Krulak, Bob Kain and Michael Martin serving as non-executive directors. At the close of the deal in 2006, Lerner became only the second American owner of a Premiership club.

Unlike many a speculating foreigner, Lerner's interest in Villa was partly emotional. During his time at Cambridge University, he had followed English football, taking an interest in three teams: Arsenal, (ironically) Fulham and Aston Villa. His interest in England's top flight continued and ripened after he had returned to the States. At the time he bought Aston Villa, Lerner's wealth was estimated to be $1.6 billion. He left in 2016.

Shahid Khan was unknown to the casual soccer fan in England until last month when news surfaced of an attempt to buy Wembley Stadium by the Fulham owner. Ranked as the 158th richest man in the world, American business insiders knew him better as he was on the front cover of Forbes magazine in 2012, Khan bought Fulham in July 2013 from Mohamed Al Fayed for an undisclosed price. In 2010, he had bought the NFL Jacksonville Jaguars, one of the NFL's smaller market sides.

As of August 2017, Khan's net worth is over $8.7 billion and he is ranked 70th in the Forbes 400 list of richest Americans. Born in Lahore, Pakistan, he moved to the United States in 1967 aged 16 to study at the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign. He now lives in Naples, Florida.



https://www.prostamerika.com/2018/05/24/who-are-more-american-fulham-or-villa/184791/

 
Matchday Build-Up

From pre-match interviews to expert analysis and famous fans, we've got all the matchday build-up you could possibly need ahead of Fulham's first trip to Wembley since 1975.

Alan Mullery: Enjoy It

The only man to have previous led Fulham out at Wembley has urged the lads to take everything in on Saturday: "Go and enjoy it, just go and enjoy it, because you never know when you're next going to play at Wembley. It's the one place where everyone wants to play. I shall we watching on the television, cheering them on from there!"


Jim's Wembley Dream

Fulham's matchday commentator Gentleman Jim cannot wait to report on his beloved side at the home of football: "It's a real thrill. I'm sure the press box at Wembley wasn't designed with the likes of me in mind, but it will be nice. I had to pinch myself - it's a great little gig for me."



Sean's Column

Sean Davis is in a positive mood ahead of Fulham's showdown with Aston Villa: "I'm 100 per cent confident for Saturday. I just feel it's our time. Barry Hayles and I ended up in the Golden Lion pub after the Semi-Final and the celebrations were incredible. The after-party was great so I can't imagine what it will be like after Wembley if we've been promoted back to the Premier League. All the best to the players, I'll have everything crossed."




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/26/matchday-build-up

 
Where to find Championship Playoff Final on US streaming: Fulham vs. Aston Villa


If you're trying to find out how you can watch Fulham vs. Aston Villa in the Championship playoff final, you've come to the right place.

Wembley Stadium hosts the English Championship play-off final on Saturday, with the winner of the game between Aston Villa and Fulham set to receive at least $212 million in revenue. The winner gets promoted to the Premier League. The loser spends another season in the Championship.

Note that the game is not being televised in the United States. The only way to watch it is via a free trial to ESPN+, their new streaming service.


Match: Fulham vs. Aston Villa
Kickoff: Saturday, Noon ET
Looking to watch Fulham vs. Aston Villa online from your work, home or on the go? If you live in the USA, there are several options to catch all the action.

We Recommend:
(http://worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/espn-plus-logo.jpg)US Only.

Here are all of the details of where you can watch it via legal streaming:

Who: Fulham vs. Aston Villa
What: Championship Playoff Final
When: Game kicks off at Noon ET / 9am PT; Saturday, May 26, 2018
Where: Live on ESPN+ (7-day free trial)

With ESPN+, you can watch Fulham vs. Aston Villa and tons of other soccer games with a free 7-day trial. ESPN+ also streams select MLS games, USL, UEFA Nations League and Championship games.

With the legal streaming service, you can watch the game on your Amazon Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, Fire TV smart TVs and Fire Tablets (4th generation and newer), Apple iPhone, iPad and Apple TV, as well as Roku, Android phones, Android TV and Chromecast.



http://worldsoccertalk.com/2018/05/25/find-championship-playoff-final-us-streaming-fulham-vs-aston-villa/

Statistical Preview: 2018 Championship Playoff Final
This is it! Can our favorite football club make it back to the top flight?

It's finally here! After two years of glorious football under manager Slavisa Jokanovic, Fulham Football Club has been rewarded a chance to return to the English Premier League in tomorrow's playoff final in Wembley Stadium. They will go toe-to-toe with fellow former Premier League mainstay Aston Villa for the right to claim that third and final promotion spot and it will surely be nothing short of a cracker!

There are plenty of storylines coming into such an occasion. While Aston Villa is easily the more experienced club with Steve Bruce managing and former Chelsea-legend John Terry as captain, Fulham is a side reborn thanks to Jokanovic's style of play, Tom Cairney conducting the midfield and Ryan Sessegnon becoming the next young English star. Along with that, this is the Southwest London side's first-ever trip to "the home of football" since 1975, when Bobby Moore featured in valiant defeat to his former club, West Ham United, in the FA Cup Final.

While this is not a trophy to prove they are among the best in England or a European night like it was in Hamburg in 2010, this is still going to be a glorious occasion for Fulham and its supporters. In fact, all 38,000 of the allotted tickets were sold out for both sets of fans, so tomorrow's Championship Playoff Final could go down as one of the most anticipated in years. The reputations of the clubs, the backstories of the players and the club histories, and the loyalties of both sets of supporters will truly catch the imagination of this occasion.

Eventually, a whistle will be blown and a game of football will commence. In order to predict what will happen, we're going to need cold hard facts to help us out.
October 21st Fixture
Teams    Goals    exp. Goals    Possession    Formations    Total Shots    Shots on Target    Passes    Forward Passes
Fulham    1    0.7    68.2    4-3-3    9    2    616    337
Aston Villa    2    2.1    31.8    4-4-1-1    15    6    286    214
All data from fulhamfc.com and experimental361.com
February 17th Fixture
Teams    Goals    exp. Goals    Possession    Formations    Total Shots    Shots on Target    Passes    Forward Passes
Fulham    2    1.2    63    4-3-3    14    7    602    342
Aston Villa    0    0.6    37    4-1-4-1    7    2    350    226
All data from fulhamfc.com and experimental361.com

Just as it was for the Derby semifinal, Fulham was a tale of two sides between the two fixtures. The first one at Villa Park was at a time when the club was in the midst of going winless in six games while Villa was in the middle of losing only once in twelve fixtures, and that was to eventual Champions Wolves the week before. Albert Adomah was instrumental on the day with 2 shots, 2 key passes and a goal in the first leg. In all, he was part of a midfield quartet that has been Aston Villa's bread-and-butter with the 30-year old leading the club with 14 goals this season. The rest of the quartet, in Jack Grealish, Connor Hourihane, and Robert Snodgrass, are all instrumental in helping out whoever the lone striker is up front in Bruce's 4-1-4-1 formation.


In the return fixture at Craven Cottage, Fulham returned the favor to Villa as the Aleksander Mitrovic experience was just about to start. While he might not have been on fire just yet, he did have three shots with two of them going on target. Along with that, the rest of the attacking trio contributed as well to combine for 10 of Fulham's 14 shots. In particular, Floyd Ayite was immense as he went on to have four shots, four key passes and the second goal in a 2-0 victory. Along with that, Ryan Fredericks tore up Villa's defense with two successful dribbles, three key passes and an assist on the opening goal by Ryan Sessegnon.

While Alan Hutton did not have one of his best night's on the day, he was one of the key figures in Villa's semifinal victory over Middlesbrough, where he was responsible for marking Adama Traore out of the game. Both Fredericks and Ayite are more effective than the 'Boro wide man, but the Hutton's performance against the quicker duo on Fulham's right-hand side will be a key to Villa's victory.


This will be emphasized even further if Ahmed El Mohamady is not able to play due to a hamstring injury. While James Bree has played admirably in his place recently, the former Hull City fullback is a much more attacking presence and is the lone defender to provide any sort of mobility. Otherwise, you're talking about maybe James Chester coming in and getting on the end of crosses (4 goals and 1 assist) to add any variety to Villa's attack. With El-Mohamady at 30 years of age, Hutton at 33 and Terry at 37, it's just difficult to find anyone else there that can deliver speed from the back.

As has been the case whenever these two teams have clashed, the midfield will be the deciding battleground as to who wins the playoff final. The Tom Cairney-Stefan Johansen duo may not be as emphasized in attack (13 goals, 9 assists in 2017/18) as it was last campaign (24 goals, 19 assists in 2016/17), but they are still a knife-cuts-butter force when they are at their best with Kevin McDonald supporting them in the holding role. If they are able to penetrate through Hourihane, they should be able to get past an aging Mile Jedinak and be able to get off shots and create chances on the break.

That being said, Hourihane has been immense with his two-way play all season with only Adomah bettering his 85 successful tackles for the club. Along with that, Villa was fantastic in limiting 'Boro's quality chances during their two-legged semifinal: further proving why they should actually be considered one of the better defending teams in the Championship. This campaign, they were fourth in total expected goals allowed (50.3) while ranking sixth in total shots allowed (11.4 per 90 minutes) and eighth in shots on target allowed (3.87 per 90 minutes).

It's not so much how Villa are able to just shut up shop as much as it is them being able to retain possession (a solid 51.1% this season) and be able to control the pace of play. It will be critical for Fulham to show their more youthful exuberance and allow the Sessegnon-Mitrovic-Ayite go after Terry and Co. as much as possible. As for Villa, it will be being able to have Snodgrass and Graelish pick apart Fulham's defense with their passing (both average over 2.4 key passes per 90 minutes) with the rest of Villa's attack hoping to get on the end of such chances.

Clearly, the better team on the day will be the one that imposes their style the most. Since this is a winner-take-all situation, anything can happen, so that is why determining an outcome is so hard. This degree of difficulty is magnified when you consider that both sides are so similar and right next to each other in quality, expected goals and results in the Championship table. Like anyone else reading this, I would love for Fulham to go through, but it should surprise no one that they will have to be at their best in attack for them to go through. Because there is no more next game. All they can do is give it their all and hope that delivers their moment of glory.



https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/5/26/17393682/statistical-preview-2018-championship-playoff-final

 
Neil Warnock backs Aston Villa's 'big players' at Wembley

Cardiff City boss Neil Warnock is backing Aston Villa's 'big players' at Wembley, claiming they could be the deciding factor in the Championship play-off final.

Warnock guided his Cardiff side to second in the Championship this season, leaving Aston Villa and Fulham to battle it out for the final promotion place via the play-offs, with both sides successfully negotiating their semi-final contests.

With Villa and Fulham both preparing for the crunch encounter, Warnock believes Villa's experienced players could make the difference.

"It's a toss of the coin." he said, speaking on TalkSPORT earlier this week.

"I mean, Fulham have been the best footballing team in the division, but Villa have got the names.

"They've got that stability, they've got John [Terry] at the back.

"If Fulham really play, then Fulham are the best team. But in a match like that, the experience that Villa have got in all the positions really.

"I just think, they've got individuals, Villa. On their day they can beat anybody. They can also lose to anybody on their day.

"But I think at Wembley, the stature, I think they've got big players in there."

Fulham have been tipped as the bookies' favourites throughout the week, with fans citing teen sensation, Ryan Sessegnon as one player who could have a big part to play in the encounter.

However, Warnock believes that it's Villa's creative spark in Jack Grealish who could hold the key to the game, if he plays to his potential.

"Grealish, I've had run-ins with him in the last couple of years, because when you blow on him he goes down. But when he plays he's as good as anything in that league, I love to watch him play." he said.

"He's got everything now and he's got the best manager he could have hasn't he? Because if anybody can keep his feet on the floor it'll be Steve [Bruce].

"He has had run-ins with everybody really, a bit like me. But when you watch him in full flight he's very exciting."



https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/aston-villa/2018/05/26/neil-warnock-backs-aston-villas-big-players-at-wembley/

 
Paul Dixon keen to see Kev McDonald back in Premier League

(https://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2018/05/5b07ca1be4103-569x372.jpg)
Kevin McDonald in action.   

If Fulham get back to the Premier League by beating Aston Villa in tomorrow's Championship play-off final at Wembley, Kevin McDonald will be back where he should have spent most of his career.

That's the verdict of the mercurial midfielder's former Dundee team-mate Paul Dixon.

As teenagers over a decade ago Dixon and McDonald were thrust into the first team as the Dark Blues continued their struggle to bounce back from administration in 2003.

After three years together, the pair left Dens Park within a few weeks of each other in the summer of 2008, Dixon to city rivals Dundee United and McDonald for Burnley.

Within a year of heading south, the latter was playing top-flight football with the Clarets and "Dicker" admits to thinking at the time that whether or not the Turf Moor outfit would stay at that level, his mate would.

After an infamous incident that saw McDonald leave the ground after being substituted at half-time during a 6-1 home defeat at the hands of Manchester City, what had been a promising start to his career down south faded for a time.

He played just one more top-tier game that season and has not performed at that level in just over eight years since. That still amazes Dixon.

"Honestly, knowing Kev's talent when he went down to Burnley and got promoted to the Premier League, I expected him to do what Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson have," he said.

"I was sure it would be a stepping stone to one of the top-six clubs down there because that is the kind of ability he has.

"He was thrown in at the deep end at Dundee, like a few of us were, but he quickly became a very big player in the team and it wasn't a surprise when English clubs started watching him every week.

"Burnley seemed a good move for him because he was getting a game and they got promoted but something went wrong and it knocked him back for a while.

"What exactly the story was I don't know and maybe we never will, but for me the good thing is he is back in with a chance of getting up to the highest level again.

"I have to say when you look at the clubs he's played for down south and the number of games he's had, you would never say he's had a bad career.

"It's just that he belongs in their Premier League and I really do hope Fulham win tomorrow and he can spend the next few seasons at that level."

He notes with interest McDonald is no longer the attacking midfielder of his Dens days, but tends to be the man who sits a touch deeper.

For him, that's just a another sign of his all-round ability.

"Kev was very much an attacking midfielder when we played together but the times I have seen Fulham on television this season he has had more of a holding role.

"He can still get forward and chip in with a few goals and he'll be a very important player for them at Wembley."

Such is the "small world" nature of football that McDonald is not the only reason Dixon will be rooting for the Cottagers in a game that could earn the winners £160 million, even if they were to be relegated this time next year.

"Oliver Norwood plays beside Kev in their midfield and I played in the same team as him at Huddersfield, so it would be good to see them both go up.

"I even know the other midfielder, Stefan Johansen because I played against him a few times when he was at Celtic and I was at United."



https://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/fp/paul-dixon-keen-to-see-kev-mcdonald-back-in-premier-league/

Quote from: WhiteJC on May 25, 2018, 04:40:08 PM

Steve Bruce indicates certain Aston Villa area will be crucial against Fulham

Steve Bruce believes that the experience him and his side possess will aid them significantly.

They also have a manager who has achieved four promotions to the Premier League, whereas, Slavisa Jokanovic hasn't achieved one,

https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/steve-bruce-indicates-certain-aston-villa-area-will-be-crucial-against-fulham/

Don't tell Watford that......Shocking bias reporting....and people actually pay this numbskull for his 'knowledge'!!  Incredible!!

 
Revealed: Majority of Aston Villa fans want to stick with 4-1-4-1 formation vs Fulham

Aston Villa will look to secure a return to the Premier League following a two-year absence when they face Fulham in the Championship play-off final at Wembley on Saturday.

The Midlands outfit saw off Middlesbrough 1-0 on aggregate over two legs in their semi-final tie, with manager Steve Bruce deploying a 4-1-4-1 system in both matches.

Mile Jedinak was the man tasked with sitting in front of the back four and providing that shield, and it certainly worked as the Villans kept two clean sheets.

They may well need that protection again against a free-scoring Fulham, with Slavisa Jokanovic's fluid 4-3-3 formation seeing them finish the league campaign as the second-top goalscorers in the division behind champions Wolverhampton Wanderers.

We at Football Fancast suggested previously that Bruce should perhaps look to be a little more adventurous and also select a 4-3-3 system because he has the players that would excel in, and it would likely shock the Cottagers ahead of the encounter.

We asked Aston Villa fans to vote on our poll to see which formation out of the two they would prefer Bruce to use on Saturday, and a majority 62% want him to play it safe and not take any risks by sticking with the trusted 4-1-4-1.

It will certailyn be interesting to see what the 57-year-old chooses to do this weekend, as he looks to lead the club back to the promised land.



https://www.footballfancast.com/championship/aston-villa/revealed-majority-of-aston-villa-fans-want-to-stick-with-4-1-4-1-formation-vs-fulham

 
3 Fulham players who could be axed if Premier League football is achieved

This afternoon, Fulham take on Aston Villa in the Sky Bet Championship play-off final. 

A place in the Premier League awaits to winner at Wembley, with Slavisa Jokanovic's side hoping to finally seal their place back in the top tier of English football.

Not much focus will be going beyond this afternoon's clash with Villa, particularly with so much at stake for the Cottagers.

Premier League football will allow some of Fulham's stars the chance to play against the elite, and will also offer Jokanovic an opportunity to show what a promising young manager he is.

Of course, should promotion be achieved later today, planning for the Premier League is almost certainly going to begin in the coming weeks.

There will be members of Fulham's squad sacrificed if promotion is achieved, with Jokanovic sure to be busy over the summer.

With that in mind, here is a look at THREE players who could be moved on if Fulham secure Premier League football...

Rui Fonte

Fonte hasn't been prolific enough in the Championship, with Fulham reliant on Aleksandar Mitrovic's goals to guide them to the brink of promotion.

The striker has some classy attributes, but Fulham would need to significantly bolster their strikeforce in the top-flight.

Fonte's departure could pave the way for arrivals.

Cyrus Christie

Christie was brought in as back-up to Ryan Fredericks, with his opportunities at Craven Cottage limited so far.

Where Fredericks is playing his football next season is a mystery, but if the right-back commits to Fulham, Christie's chance will seem a million miles away.

He could be on his way out if Fredericks stays.

Oliver Norwood

Norwood has found himself competing for a place in midfield, which is arguably Fulham's strongest area.

If Fulham are preparing for Premier League football, Norwood's chance of a permanent deal will seem unlikely.

Brighton didn't deem him good enough for the top-flight, and it will be interesting to see whether Fulham think the same of their loanee.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-fulham-players-who-could-be-axed-if-premier-league-football-is-achieved/

 
There's only one team I want to do it on Saturday. For all that is good in football.

For us Brentford fans, the season is over. A fourth top ten finish in the Championship, our last significant action of the campaign (aside from beating the Loftus Road mob, again) was Neal Maupay's magnificent 94th minute equaliser at The Cottage in mid-April. Those two points denied Fulham have ended up being the difference between their attaining automatic promotion to the Premier League and now finding themselves in a play-off final against Aston Villa. That game is today. Saturday.

But actually, I'm not as into it as perhaps I normally would be. This is nothing to do with excitement about the chance to play Liverpool bingo later in the Champion's League final. More with the participants and what I've seen on social media this week.

From a purely footballing perspective, there isn't much in who I'd prefer to be Championship opponents next season. Statistically speaking, Fulham have been more than generous opponents to Brentford over the last few seasons. From Jota in the last minute, through that 4-1 humping administered by the river right up to four more points this campaign. A game against Birmingham City aside, there's no surer opportunity for The Bees to climb the table than  playing the Cottagers.

Equally though, our Championship record against Aston Villa has produced 2 draws and 2 wins for Brentford. The Villans have only put the ball past Daniel Bentley twice in those four games as we've pocketed a very handy eight points. We've absolutely played them off the field in both games at Griffin Park whilst given them all manner of headaches up in the Midlands

Villa do have that rich history. They won the European Cup once. Something they go on about almost as much as  West Ham mention their 1966 World Cup win and the FA Cup in 1980. It was Trevor Brooking in the penalty box with a header. Apparently. If only somebody had said.  They have that magnificent stadium and a healthy following of passionate fans. Whilst the likes of Simon Hateley may push it to the extremes of lunacy, it is all about the football.

There are no gin bars.

No clappers.

No half and half scarfs.

No foam fingers.

No statues of Michael Jackson.

Definitely no neutral stand.

No run out music for the warm up.

No song sheets needed.

No advice on taking bottles of water into the ground.

Ah, Fulham. If hipsters did football. Or tried to. That's not to say I have any particular affinity toward Villa. I support Brentford, end of. There's no cheering for two clubs here. I'm still intrigued by what would have happened had West Ham gone down this season or we gone up. There are more than a few amongst our ranks who have an affinity towards the Hammers. Certainly, if the pictorial evidence is to be believed.

Villa do have the Scott Hogan factor aswell. One can only presume / hope, there was a top flight clause built into his move whilst if for no other reason it's always great to see our old boys doing well. Unless they play for Birmingham City. I still haven't forgiven Harlee Dean for those comments. Likewise, it also helps guide any potential investment decision.

Looking at my online bookmaker this morning (purely for research purposes) Scott is 6/1 to grab the opening goal whilst another former Bee in Lewis Grabban – what must he be worth these days  – is 11/2.

Put simply, the heart says there is no way I could ever wish Fulham well. I have Villa supporting friends aswell. As such, they have to be the team I'd prefer to go up.

Or do they?

Something described by one Twitter correspondent as 'twatful' started to do the rounds late this week. An interview given by Steve Bruce about everybody's favourite pantomime villain, John Terry. This, the same John Terry who orchestrated his own 26th minute substitution and guard of honour in his final game at Chelsea. Yet just when it couldn't get worse, it does.

His manager has been quoted as saying that should Villa make it to the top flight and Terry play on, he'll let him miss the games against his former club.

Seriously? Will he be lifting the play off trophy in his full Chelsea kit, too?  I could get on the moral high horse now about it being a huge slap in the face to those people who pay his wages and support Aston Villa. A terrible example to those young children who wear his shirt and cheer him on but that's been long done to death already.

Is it enough to swing me towards Fulham though? No chance. Especially when you see something like this......

They can take those clappers and shove them where the sun don't shine. Not that they did any good on 14th April. As noted on these pages at the time, The Cottager's dependency on those dreaded paper fans to try and generate an atmosphere had been an embarrassment. A repugnant creation and terrible indictment of a club allegedly chasing promotion that they are needed for a game of this magnitude. For any game. Then again, the use of 'run out' music for the warm up showed the level of desperation /  atmosphere building that was required at the Cottage. Cringeworthy. What next, a Mexican wave?

Whilst I won't be cheering on the Villa to win, I'll certainly be celebrating if Fulham lose. Bring on those six points for Brentford in 2018/19.

Nick Bruzon



https://nickbruzonslastword.wordpress.com/2018/05/26/theres-only-one-team-i-want-to-do-it-on-saturday-for-all-that-is-good-in-football/

 
Aston Villa facing financial crisis if Fulham win play-off final

Aston Villa are facing a nightmare financial situation if Fulham beat them in the Championship play-off final at Wembley on Saturday, according to the Telegraph.

The newspaper claims that the Villains would have to scrap deals to sign Robert Snodgrass, Sam Johnstone and Lewis Grabban on a permanent basis if they miss out on promotion back to the Premier League while the star trio of Jack Grealish, James Chester and Jonathan Kodjia may end up exiting the West Midlands club with their futures' plunged into doubt.

It is understood that Villa may even have to sell their training ground due to the major pressure to avoid breaking Financial Fair Play regulations, that could possibly see them hit with a transfer embargo.

OPINION

Villa are now paying the price for what was a ridiculous first transfer window in the Championship. Tony Xia showed that he clearly had no clue what he was spending his money on when he let Roberto di Matteo splash major cash on the likes of Ross McCormack, Aaron Tshibola, Tommy Elphick and Pierluigi Gollini. All this while the club only really made any decent money off selling Idrissa Gueye and Ciaran Clark. Villa were so desperate to go back up that they played a major risk with Financial Fair Play and that will definitely come back to bite them if they lose at Wembley. Fulham are understandably the favourites and it would be an absolute disaster for the club if they were to lose. Steve Bruce has done a great job at Villa Park, but he may not want to stick around and deal with the mess if they miss out on promotion.



https://thisisfutbol.com/2018/05/blogs/championship/aston-villa/aston-villa-facing-financial-crisis-if-fulham-win-play-off-final/

 
Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic calls on classy Cottagers to go up in style

Derby County's conquerors take on Aston Villa in the Championship play-off final at Wembley

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic believes playing the "best football in the Championship" could give his side the edge in today's play-off final.

The Cottagers face Aston Villa in the Wembley showpiece (5pm), hoping to end a four-year absence from the Premier League.

They have won plaudits for their attractive style of football, which made them the best team in the division since the turn of the year.

They went 23 games unbeaten - half of the regular season - and only missed out on automatic promotion with defeat on the final day.

After overcoming Derby County in the semi-final they have another chance to finish the job, with Jokanovic hoping their form can see them through.

"At the start of the season if someone bet on Villa against Fulham, people would bet on Villa," he said.

"After the last few months where we showed we can play better and the best football in the Championship we can be favourites but everything is history and the past.

"Now is not important who is favourite and who is not, we will see on the end."

While Fulham may have the edge on form and momentum - they finished five points ahead of Villa over the season - Steve Bruce's side win it on experience.

No manager has won more promotions to the Premier League than Bruce's four, while their side is full of players who have been there and done it in the game, with the likes of John Terry, Alan Hutton, James Chester and Robert Snodgrass.

But Jokanovic says that because their opponents have so much experience in the bag, it means they are no longer at their peak.

"It's not important," he said. "Where we are talking about experience, where we are talking about the past, there are many important players who played in this stadium before and now they cannot offer their best performance.

"John Terry is a fantastic player, Chester is fantastic, they have experience in this stadium but probably they cannot be in their best level right now.

"My team is ready and prepared, we know what we will do with or without the ball and this is why I am really encouraged.

"I am not under any negative pressure, this is a great afternoon ahead of us and I want to be successful, I will push people around me to make a great job and look for our best performance and do everything to win the game."

Bruce, meanwhile, is proud of the way he has helped revitalise Villa both on and off the pitch and hopes to complete the turnaround with promotion back to the Premier League.

He inherited a mess following Villa's relegation at the end of the 2015-16 season and he was taken aback by the culture at the club, while the relationship between the players and supporters had turned toxic following an embarrassing campaign.

But the 57-year-old has helped to repair the bond with the fans since replacing Roberto Di Matteo in October 2016 and Villa stand on the brink of returning to the top flight.

While victory over Fulham would represent Bruce's biggest success at Villa, he counts getting the club back on track as his best achievement.

"Let's be fair, Aston Villa went down with a whimper. There was no association with the players anymore, it had broken," said Bruce.

"I remember speaking to the technical director at the first game against Wolves and thought oh, oh, wow! Of course the culture of the club at the time was... I mean, we hadn't won away from home for 18 months. Some of the stats were just absolutely ridiculous.

"My initial thought, and (technical director) Steve Round agreed with me, was, 'we've got to stop the rot here and just keep the club in the Championship', would you believe.

"That's how low I thought it had got.

"That is why I went down the route of bringing in the likes of (Glenn) Whelan and (Ahmed) Elmohamady, John Terry of course, (Mile) Jedinak - all people who can handle playing for Aston Villa.

"A lot of work has gone in in 18 months. We've worked tirelessly and changed the squad round hugely and thankfully with winning a few games it's certainly starting to mend with the supporters.

"It certainly wasn't there when I arrived 19 months ago. There were certainly times when they wanted to rip my head off and rip the head off the players. But now, I do believe they have enjoyed seeing what we have got at the moment."

Win or lose at Wembley, Bruce is aware that another period of upheaval probably awaits as regards his playing squad.

Loan players Sam Johnstone, Axel Tuanzebe, Robert Snodgrass, Josh Onomah and Lewis Grabban will return to their parent clubs while Terry's future looks like it is dependant on Saturday's result and Jack Grealish is already the subject of speculation.

"I am sure it will be totally different. The five loan signings for a start, I don't think we will be able to get them back," said Bruce, who had joked he would be willing to allow Terry to miss both games against his former club Chelsea, should Villa win promotion, to help facilitate any extended deal.

"When it comes, then we will have to start all over again, dust ourselves down and get ready. I am sure it will change, it will have to."



https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-aston-villa-playoff-final-1609839

 
Jokanovic wants to emulate Arsene Wenger as Fulham prepare to take on Aston Villa

Jokanovic has been linked with the Chelsea job but he wants to focus on completing the project of promotion to the Premier League with Fulham

Slavisa Jokanovic doesn't want getting Fulham into the Premier League to represent finished business, insisting he wants a career like former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

The Whites play-off final with Aston Villa at Wembley this afternoon is the next step in a two-and-a-half year project that has seen the head coach take the side from relegation candidates to one of the best teams in the division.

If Fulham were to beat Villa and gain promotion to the Premier League, it would be the second time that Jokanovic has got a side promoted to the top tier in 2015.

He never got the chance to manage the Hornets there after he was replaced that summer and there are rumours surrounding his future this time around too, with links to the Chelsea job emerging their head once more.

(https://i2-prod.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article14706576.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/Fulham-Play-off-Final-Preview-Day-Motspur-Park.jpg)
(Image: Victoria Jones/PA Wire)

However, Jokanovic wants to finish his project of getting Fulham back to where they belong, insisting he has far more of a connection with the Whites than he did with Watford having spent just under two years longer at the helm.

While some might see managing in the Premier League as unfinished business, Jokanovic sees it as the next step in his career - one he hopes will be as long as Wenger's.

He said: "I want to finish the business like Arsene Wenger, if I am lucky.

"I am still a young man and I am not thinking about any business soon, I expect I will work 20 years more and I was successful with Watford in the Championship but didn't have opportunity to work in the Premier League for different reasons.

"This is part of the past and I am not thinking of Watford or any situation behind me, only what is important is the present and immediately what I have under my control.

"I have the contract and that's it, it's simple.

"I am not thinking about future, this game is so huge and massive, I don't know what I'll do Sunday morning to be honest, only what is important is game immediately in front of us.

"At the end, I am two-and-a-half-years, when I arrive I arrive with a challenge of fighting a relegation battle.

"We start with the problem, we didn't know exactly how to to help this team and after this first few months and with new season for the club we changed the direction and bring different people and we start to improve ourselves.

"Now, we are in the chance of crossing this line and be Premier League team.

"Some months and years are behind us, we show clear improvement and we want to fight to bring Fulham to place where we believe they belong.

"Now we have this chance, all of us are excited and all of us want to show our best level this day.

"We know it's important to cross this line, and you know it is in the life of football, you are successful, feeling is great, you are less successful, feeling is not so well.

"I am here two-and-a-half years, I was coaching Watford only ten months or something, I have more connection with this club than Watford.

"This is memories, they are behind of me, I was really happy there and now I must continue my life and push myself and people around me to be successful."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/jokanovic-wants-emulate-arsene-wenger-14706523

Quote from: WhiteJC on May 26, 2018, 08:23:46 AM

There's only one team I want to do it on Saturday. For all that is good in football.

For us Brentford fans, the season is over. A fourth top ten finish in the Championship, our last significant action of the campaign (aside from beating the Loftus Road mob, again) was Neal Maupay's magnificent 94th minute equaliser at The Cottage in mid-April. Those two points denied Fulham have ended up being the difference between their attaining automatic promotion to the Premier League and now finding themselves in a play-off final against Aston Villa. That game is today. Saturday.

But actually, I'm not as into it as perhaps I normally would be. This is nothing to do with excitement about the chance to play Liverpool bingo later in the Champion's League final. More with the participants and what I've seen on social media this week.

From a purely footballing perspective, there isn't much in who I'd prefer to be Championship opponents next season. Statistically speaking, Fulham have been more than generous opponents to Brentford over the last few seasons. From Jota in the last minute, through that 4-1 humping administered by the river right up to four more points this campaign. A game against Birmingham City aside, there's no surer opportunity for The Bees to climb the table than  playing the Cottagers.

Equally though, our Championship record against Aston Villa has produced 2 draws and 2 wins for Brentford. The Villans have only put the ball past Daniel Bentley twice in those four games as we've pocketed a very handy eight points. We've absolutely played them off the field in both games at Griffin Park whilst given them all manner of headaches up in the Midlands

Villa do have that rich history. They won the European Cup once. Something they go on about almost as much as  West Ham mention their 1966 World Cup win and the FA Cup in 1980. It was Trevor Brooking in the penalty box with a header. Apparently. If only somebody had said.  They have that magnificent stadium and a healthy following of passionate fans. Whilst the likes of Simon Hateley may push it to the extremes of lunacy, it is all about the football.

There are no gin bars.

No clappers.

No half and half scarfs.

No foam fingers.

No statues of Michael Jackson.

Definitely no neutral stand.

No run out music for the warm up.

No song sheets needed.

No advice on taking bottles of water into the ground.

Ah, Fulham. If hipsters did football. Or tried to. That's not to say I have any particular affinity toward Villa. I support Brentford, end of. There's no cheering for two clubs here. I'm still intrigued by what would have happened had West Ham gone down this season or we gone up. There are more than a few amongst our ranks who have an affinity towards the Hammers. Certainly, if the pictorial evidence is to be believed.

Villa do have the Scott Hogan factor aswell. One can only presume / hope, there was a top flight clause built into his move whilst if for no other reason it's always great to see our old boys doing well. Unless they play for Birmingham City. I still haven't forgiven Harlee Dean for those comments. Likewise, it also helps guide any potential investment decision.

Looking at my online bookmaker this morning (purely for research purposes) Scott is 6/1 to grab the opening goal whilst another former Bee in Lewis Grabban – what must he be worth these days  – is 11/2.

Put simply, the heart says there is no way I could ever wish Fulham well. I have Villa supporting friends aswell. As such, they have to be the team I'd prefer to go up.

Or do they?

Something described by one Twitter correspondent as 'twatful' started to do the rounds late this week. An interview given by Steve Bruce about everybody's favourite pantomime villain, John Terry. This, the same John Terry who orchestrated his own 26th minute substitution and guard of honour in his final game at Chelsea. Yet just when it couldn't get worse, it does.

His manager has been quoted as saying that should Villa make it to the top flight and Terry play on, he'll let him miss the games against his former club.

Seriously? Will he be lifting the play off trophy in his full Chelsea kit, too?  I could get on the moral high horse now about it being a huge slap in the face to those people who pay his wages and support Aston Villa. A terrible example to those young children who wear his shirt and cheer him on but that's been long done to death already.

Is it enough to swing me towards Fulham though? No chance. Especially when you see something like this......

They can take those clappers and shove them where the sun don't shine. Not that they did any good on 14th April. As noted on these pages at the time, The Cottager's dependency on those dreaded paper fans to try and generate an atmosphere had been an embarrassment. A repugnant creation and terrible indictment of a club allegedly chasing promotion that they are needed for a game of this magnitude. For any game. Then again, the use of 'run out' music for the warm up showed the level of desperation /  atmosphere building that was required at the Cottage. Cringeworthy. What next, a Mexican wave?

Whilst I won't be cheering on the Villa to win, I'll certainly be celebrating if Fulham lose. Bring on those six points for Brentford in 2018/19.

Nick Bruzon



https://nickbruzonslastword.wordpress.com/2018/05/26/theres-only-one-team-i-want-to-do-it-on-saturday-for-all-that-is-good-in-football/

Someone has a serious inferiority complex

 
Aston Villa team news: Important man 50-50 for Fulham clash, duo out

Aston Villa are preparing for their biggest match of the season when they meet Fulham at Wembley Stadium on Saturday and could be without one of their key men for the tie, according to a report on the club's official website.

The Villans will be looking to emerge victorious as they attempt to make a return back to the Premier League and Steve Bruce's side will be heading into the fixture with a degree of confidence.

The Villa Park outfit managed to shut out Middlesbrough in the previous round, and will be hoping they can keep Fulham at bay for 90 minutes.

However, they could be without Ahmed Elmohamady for the trip to the national stadium, as he continues to be in a race against time.

The Egypt international suffered a hamstring injury during the dying moments of the Play-Off first-leg against Boro and has been on the sidelines ever since.

Bruce has admitted that the experienced full-back has recovered quicker than expected, although has revealed he will not make a decision on whether he will be involved until as late as possible.

Should Elmohamaday not be declared fit, then the Villans could be prepared to turn to James Bree, who deputised during the second-leg, or switch Alan Hutton onto the right and use Neil Taylor on the left instead.

Villa will also be without Axel Tuanzebe and Jed Steer as both remain unavailable for the massive fixture, however, Bruce has also stated that he has no other concerns and will be able to choose from an almost fully fit squad.



https://ninetyminutesonline.com/aston-villa-team-news-star-man-in-race-to-be-fit-for-play-off-final/

 
Drills, travels and tactics: the keys to Slavisa Jokanovic's Fulham success

'The Manchester City of the Championship' take on Villa in the play-off final with much to thank their Serbian manager for

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Fulham's Slavisa Jokanovic has put together an excellent passing side with an emphasis on pressing the opposition. Photograph: Jed Leicester//BPI/Rex/Shutterstock

When Neil Warnock described Fulham as "the Manchester City of the Championship" he was not talking about the transfer fees. Fulham had a net spend of around £3m this season and their most expensive signing, the forward Rui Fonte, has been a conspicuous failure. No, the Cardiff manager was talking about the passing. Top in the division for completion (83.1%) and total passes (24,857), Fulham were also the side with the most accurate short passes, second most shots on target and the highest average possession.

Fulham have a style that, as Warnock said, is easy on the eye. So how does Slavisa Jokanovic go about instilling such a style in his players? He drills them on turnovers. "At training, everything is about winning the ball back," says the midfielder Kevin McDonald. "Press after loss, press after loss, all the time. We know we have to earn the right to play and the manager drills it in us every day. We will try and win the ball back as soon as we lose it and then keep the ball, make them run around and try and create chances, tire them out."

That the manager of the Championship's most attractive side, who contest the play-off final with Aston Villa on Saturday, concentrates first and foremost on work without the ball shows something important about Jokanovic. The 49-year-old Serb has been at Craven Cottage for two and a half years. It is his seventh club as a manager and the sixth country he has coached in. He has accumulated experience everywhere from Spain to Thailand and it is reflected in his skills. This is a manager rounded in his approach, one who can be flexible. Not that you would mess with him, as anyone who has been in his presence would confirm.

"I think Serbians are known to be voyagers," says Jordi Cruyff who, as director of football at Maccabi Tel Aviv, hired Jokanovic as manager in 2015. "They're really a country that exports a lot. Slavisa had an adventure in Thailand, he was in England, he was in Spain, then he was with us for a period of time. I think it enriches his football vision. It's based on different ways of seeing football. I think that's a benefit for any manager nowadays."

Jokanovic spent only six months in Israel before accepting an offer from Fulham. But he left on good terms having qualified the club for the group stages of the Champions League for the first time in 11 years. His versatility and ability to react to circumstances was clear. "He played various systems," Cruyff says. "He does like to play from behind but he also likes to adapt himself to moments that he might not have control of. I think his reading of the game was very good."
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By the time Fulham hired Jokanovic in December 2015, Tel Aviv had had several approaches. "He said no to everything," says Cruyff, "including to clubs in La Liga. But when Fulham came we all knew that he wanted to go back. He loves London, he likes the style, he loves the football and maybe deep inside there was some unfinished business."

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Denis Odoi, Fulham's match-winner in the play-off semi-final against Derby, celebrates with fans after a place at Wembley was confirmed. Photograph: Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Getty Images

Watford fans remember fondly the match that earned them promotion, a game at Brighton in which Jokanovic hooked Ikechi Anya after 26 minutes, changed the shape and saw the opening goal in a 2-0 win arrive three minutes later. Within a month Jokanovic had left, saying the owners' reluctance to give him a new contract made it clear he was not wanted. This situation has not been replicated at Fulham; in December he signed a contract until 2019 and further negotiations are expected should the Cottagers achieve promotion.

Radomir Antic signed Jokanovic as a player for Real Oviedo in the 1990s and remains a close friend of his compatriot. Antic, the only person to have managed Real Madrid, Atlético and Barcelona, says he and Jokanovic still discuss tactical matters, such as the redeployment of Ryan Sessegnon from full-back to winger, a shift crucial to Fulham's rampant form in 2018.

"He was an important player for me in the mid-90s," says Antic, "When he took his first touch on the ball you could see he always had a solution for what to do next. I think he is like this as a manager. He will look for players who are ready to learn, and work with them to build a system that works to their strengths. This is the case, for example, with Aleksandar Mitrovic [who has 12 goals in 19 appearances since joining on loan from Newcastle]."

No one would describe the 6ft 2in Jokanovic as a pushover, however. His glare alone is enough to put fear into people, an indication of an intensity that has transformed Fulham from relegation candidates to being on the verge of the Premier League. "He can be a bit intimidating, I'm sure, for certain people," says McDonald. "I wouldn't say he's scary but I wouldn't cross him. He puts confidence in you and when you go out on the pitch you feel like you're going to win. That's what he wants. But if we're drifting away from that, he'll do whatever it takes to get back to it."



https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/may/26/fulham-slavisa-jokanovic-aston-villa-championship-play-off-final

 
Ex-Spurs and Bristol City defender 90 minutes away from the Premier League

Lawrence Taylor looks at the former Tottenham man named in Championship team of the year and why it didn't work out at Ashton Gate

Ryan Fredericks could find himself playing in the Premier League for the first time next seaso.

The defender has been a key part of the Fulham side that booked a place in today's Championship play-off final against Aston Villa and he is now 90 minutes away from the top-flight.

Would Fredericks still have been in the same position today had his 26-day spell at Bristol City been for the proposed three years?

Born in Potters Bar in Hertfordshire, the 25-year-old started off his career in the Tottenham Hotspur academy before signing his first professional contract with the Premier League side in July 2010 aged only 17.

Fredericks made his Spurs debut alongside Harry Kane and Tom Carroll in 2011 during a Europe League Qualifying second leg match at White Hart Lane against Hearts.

With Spurs already holding a convincing lead over their Scottish counterparts thanks to a 5-0 first leg win, manager Harry Redknapp was more than happy to give the youngsters some first-team experience.

First-team opportunities were hard to come by over Fredericks' four years with the North London club, with the defender only making one more start for Spurs against Anzhi Makhachkala in the 2013 Europa League.

Fredericks contributed by winning a penalty for his side allowing for Spanish forward Roberto Soldado to complete his hat-trick in an emphatic 4-1 win over the Russian side

Fredericks enjoyed loan spells at three different clubs while on the books at Tottenham.

He joined League One side Brentford on an initial season-long loan deal, but that was cut short as Fredericks was called back to his parent club after two months having made only five first team appearances for the Bees.

Fredericks first taste of Championship football came at Millwall where Ian Holloway signed the youngster in January 2014 on an initial emergency 93-day loan deal, before extending the loan until the end of the season.

He scored the winner on his debut as Millwall beat Ipswich 1-0 at the Den and was a crucial part in the late season run of form that saw Millwall survive the drop down to League One.

The attacking full-back's final loan spell away from Spurs saw him venture outside of London and arrive at Middlesbrough on a season-long loan. Fredericks made 17 appearances for Boro as they finished 4th in the Championship that season.

Fredericks finally left Tottenham for good in the summer of 2015.

The defender signed a three-year contract with Bristol City and was an exciting addition for manager Steve Cotterill.

The then Bristol City boss told the club's website: "I'm delighted Ryan has decided to join us. There was certainly a fair bit of competition for his signature from a number of other Championship clubs."

However, Fredericks spell in the West Country was short lived. After starting four of City's five opening games it was confirmed that the youngster would be returning to London.

The announcement was made just before City's game against Burnley, with Cotterill saying: "He's leaving us for personal reasons and will be joining another London club. He's having a medical today and will join the club for the same fee that we paid for him.

"We wish him good luck with that. We understand, sometimes things happen. We're one light on the bench today, but you can only use three substitutes anyway."

The London-based club was later confirmed to be Fulham. Fredericks heard of the attention and a return to London was too big of a temptation for the then 22-year-old.

Fredericks said: "When I heard of the interest from Fulham I jumped at the chance.

"I'm delighted that we got it done so quickly. It's a massive club that belongs back in the Premier League. Fulham's a great area with big fans - it's a good club."

Since arriving back in London the Englishman has gone from strength to strength.

Fredericks made 32 appearances in all competitions in his debut season at the club making him one of the first names on the team sheet.

He has continued to play regularly across his three years at Craven Cottage and made his 100th appearance for the Whites when they faced Derby earlier this season.

Many see Fredericks as the underrated star in the Fulham side this season with the plaudits and headlines going to fellow full-back Ryan Sessegnon, midfield maestro Tom Cairney and as of late the fine goal-scoring form of Alexsandar Mitrovic.

However, Fredericks fine form at the back hasn't gone unnoticed with the defender being named in the EFL Championship Team of the Season, alongside club team mates Sessegnon and Cairney.

His pace and delivery down the right flank causes plenty of trouble for Championship defences the full-back has seven assists to his name this season, the highest of any Fulham player.

He could easily have a goal to his name as well had it not been for the dubious goals panel ruling his long-range effort against QPR as a Jack Robinson own goal.

The defender was also named in the PFA team of the year, voted for his peers and it's no surprise that the former England under-19 international is attracting interest from Premier League suitors.

West Ham United, Swansea City and Southampton have all been rumoured to be after the 25-year-old.

The defender is out of contract at the end of the season and would be available on a free transfer but the Cottagers are confident he will stay if they win promotion today.

A Premier League return for Fredericks will leave Robins fans wondering what could have been.



https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/ryan-fredericks-spurs-bristol-city-1426579