Friends of Fulham

 
Wolves Tickets

Join us for Boxing Day action when Fulham take on Wolverhampton Wanderers at Craven Cottage.

The Whites go into the match on the back of Saturday's away draw at St. James' Park, which saw Claudio Ranieri's side pick up their first clean sheet of the season.

Continue the festivities and bring your support to SW6 on Wednesday with tickets for the match on sale now.

Fans can secure their seat now online, by phone on 0203 871 0810 or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

Details of the Club's Ticket Office and Stadium Store opening hours across the festive period can be found here.

COYW!



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/december/24/wolves-tickets

 
Fulham to renew interest in Besiktas defender Domagoj Vida?


Besiktas defender Domagoj Vida has reportedly emerged as a January transfer target for Fulham.

Vida helped Croatia reach the World Cup final during the summer and although the 29-year-old was heavily linked with a switch to the Premier League, the versatile player remained in Turkey.

However, Besiktas are off the pace in the top flight this season and according to Fotomac, Fulham are considering an approach for Vida at the midway point of the campaign.

Fulham kept their first clean sheet of the season at Newcastle United on Saturday, but Claudio Ranieri remains desperate for defensive additions with the West Londoners four points adrift of safety.

Vida still has just over three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract, but that is unlikely to stop Fulham and other English clubs from registering an interest in the coming weeks.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/fulham-to-renew-interest-in-vida_345070.html

 
Fulham vs Wolves preview: Claudio Ranieri's side look to move off bottom
Watch live on Sky Sports Premier League on Boxing Day from 12pm

Fulham will be looking to end a five-match winless run and move off the bottom of the Premier League when they host Wolves on Boxing Day, live on Sky Sports.

The Cottagers have not tasted victory since Claudio Ranieri's first game in charge, a 3-2 win over Southampton on November 24.

They did manage to keep their first clean sheet of the season in a 0-0 draw with Newcastle on Saturday, and Ranieri hopes they can build on that.

"The atmosphere is always positive and today it is more positive," he said.

"Now our minds are on Wolverhampton. [Nuno] Espirito Santo is doing a good job, I watch their match against Liverpool. Wolverhampton played a fantastically. They create two or three great chances in the first half and Liverpool at the end won the match. It will be another tough match for us."

Wolves saw their three-match winning run ended with a 2-0 home defeat to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Friday.

Team news

---

Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri has no fresh injury problems.

Winger Ryan Sessegnon missed Saturday's goalless Premier League draw at Newcastle with a groin strain and could return as the Londoners attempt to build upon a first Premier League clean sheet of the season on Tyneside.

There was no place either for midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa as he recovers from a knock, but Ranieri reported an otherwise clean bill of health after the 90 minutes at St James' Park.

Diogo Jota is likely to miss Wolves' trip to Fulham as he continues to battle a hamstring injury.

Boss Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed the forward remains a doubt having missed Friday's 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.

Conor Coady and Ryan Bennett are one caution away from a suspension ahead of the yellow card amnesty.

Opta stats

---

    Fulham have won just one of their last 10 games against Wolves in all competitions (D3 L6), however that did come in the most recent meeting (2-0 in February).
    Wolves have won six of their last eight league games against Fulham (D1 L1), scoring three or more goals on five occasions.
    This will be the first Premier League meeting between Fulham and Wolves since March 2012, when the London side won 5-0 at Craven Cottage under Martin Jol.
    Wolves have never previously won away at Craven Cottage in the Premier League (P4 D2 L2), losing on each of their last two trips.
    Wolves have lost all three of their Premier League games played on Boxing Day, the most games played on the day without earning a single point in the competition.
    This will be Wolves' 100th league game played on Boxing Day, making them just the second side to play as many on the date (after West Bromwich Albion).

Merson's prediction

---

I watched Fulham on Saturday and they looked quite solid and you would never have guessed they have let in a million goals already this season. They defended really well, while Wolves got well beat by Liverpool, so I am going to go for a must-win Fulham victory. I just think that they have got to win this game, so they will have a lot more intensity than Wolves.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1 (10/1 with Sky Bet)



https://www.skysports.com/football/fulham-vs-wolves/preview/390940

 
Neves fully focused on Fulham

Ruben Neves knows Wolves will prepare for the Boxing Day visit to Fulham in the same way as every other match – despite the opposition sitting bottom of the Premier League.

Wolves head to west London on Wednesday off the back of their first defeat in four matches against league leader Liverpool, who Neves believes are the best team his side have played this season.

The midfielder is expecting a short Christmas Day with his young family as attention is fully focused on Fulham.

On Liverpool performance
"It was a tough game, but we knew that is was going to be like that. I think we gave everything, but it's football, Liverpool is a very good team and are doing an unbelievable in the league.

"They're one of the best teams, of course we have a lot of good teams in the Premier League, but at the moment they are the team, for me, that are playing better.

"I think we gave a very good game, unfortunately we lost, but we have to look forwards to what we're going to have, what we're going to find."

On recent form
"That's what we want every time. We want to play well and win games. I think we are in a good way, but we have a long way to go so let's focus on the next game."

On preparing for Fulham
"It is the same for us. We don't think about the table, we think about the game, we think about what we have to do, and Fulham, we know already, is a very good team and it is a tough stadium to play, and we have to focus on that.

"We have to think about our game, the way we're going to play there, and try to get the win."

On family time at Christmas
"We have time to enjoy Christmas with our family, on this special date, but we have our work on the 26th, so we have to be fast and prepare well for the game."



https://www.wolves.co.uk/news/first-team/20181224-neves-fully-focused-on-fulham/

 
Cyrus Christie admits Fulham need to improve their finishing

The Cottagers have only scored 16 goals in 18 games.


Cyrus Christie is convinced Fulham can pull off a Premier League escape if they can find a killer touch in front of goal.

The Cottagers kept their first clean sheet of the league campaign in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Newcastle, a drab affair during which the home side failed to trouble goalkeeper Sergio Rico once.

They might have emerged with a rare victory had either former Magpie Aleksandar Mitrovic or substitute Aboubakar Kamara managed to make the most of late opportunities at St James' Park.

And Christie knows that is where they have to improve as they prepare for home clashes with Wolves and Huddersfield.

Christie said: "They are two big games. We are getting better as the games go by. We're defending well, but we just need to score a few more goals now and keep the clean sheets and I'm sure we'll be fine."

Fulham left the north east with plenty of positives after manager Claudio Ranieri opted for the first time to field a three-man defence, but wondering what might have been.

Christie said: "It was a hard-fought draw. We had chances at the end there, but when your luck is out, that's what happens.

"We defended well, it's a clean sheet and it's a point on the board. If we had won, the table would look a bit better, but we have got two home games coming up now and we need to make the most of them."

The draw took the club's points tally into double figures – they now have 10 from their 18 games – but they remain at the foot of the table, if only by virtue of goal difference behind Huddersfield and Burnley, who are two points better off.

In the circumstances, the Terriers' visit to Craven Cottage on Saturday could prove hugely significant, although it is Wolves, who lost 2-0 at home to leaders Liverpool on Friday evening, who are the initial focus on Boxing Day.

Fulham have won only once in their last 15 league games and a change in fortunes against one of the sides with which they came up from the Sky Bet Championship at the end of last season would provide a major boost.

However, Ranieri said: "[Manager Nuno] Espirito Santo is doing a very good job – I watched the match against Liverpool and Wolverhampton played fantastically.

"They created two or three great chances in the first half and Liverpool at the end won the match. It will be another tough match for us."



http://sport.bt.com/news/cyrus-christie-admits-fulham-need-to-improve-their-finishing-S11364319853496

 
Report: Crystal Palace and Fulham hit a problem in Victor Moses move

Chelsea outcast Victor Moses has been linked with a number of Premier League sides ahead of the January window, including former club Crystal Palace.

Crystal Palace appeared to be well placed to bring Victor Moses back to Selhurst Park ahead of the January transfer window.

Despite interest from Wolverhampton Wanderers, West Ham United and Fulham, the Standard reported on Friday that Palace were confident of striking a deal for the Nigerian international next month.

Moses started his professional career with the Eagles, making 69 appearances for the club before he left for Wigan Athletic in 2010.

But, according to the Sun (23 December, page 61), the 28-year-old's homecoming is now under threat. It is understood that Moses's move back to Crystal Palace has now hit a snag due to the size of his wages.

The former Liverpool and Stoke City loanee is earning £130,000 a week at Chelsea and it seems that Palace, as well as Fulham, could be scared off from striking a deal – unless Maurizio Sarri's side are willing to let him leave on loan and contribute a decent portion of his earnings.

It certainly makes sense for Moses to leave Stamford Bridge, given that he has played just 26 minutes of Premier League football since Sarri took over from Antonio Conte.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/12/24/do-report-crystal-palace-and-fulham-hit-a-problem-in-victor-mose/

 
Fulham vs Wolves | 5 things to know

Wolves have a quick chance to get back to winning ways on Boxing Day when they take on bottom club Fulham. Here are five things to look out for at Craven Cottage.

1. FORM IN THE CAPITAL

Wolves have enjoyed their time in the capital this season, remaining unbeaten in three trips to the London. Two of Wolves' three victories on the road have been achieved in London and they'll look for the hat-trick on Boxing Day. The first three-point haul of the season came in the east at West Ham, while the second on the road came in south against Crystal Palace. Furthermore, Nuno's side picked up a respectable point in the north against Arsenal. The west will be visited on Wednesday, so can Wolves pick up another victory in the capital?

2. RANIERI EFFECT

The new manager effect. Claudio Ranieri is still new to the Craven Cottage dugout and made a winning start against Southampton. The Italian has a proven track record in the Premier League, having managed Chelsea and famously led Leicester to the title in 2016. On home soil they also drew with Ranieri's former club, but were beaten on their last Craven Cottage outing against Newcastle. The Londoners were so strong on home soil in their promotion season last time out, losing only twice, and results at the Cottage are likely to be crucial if Fulham are to avoid relegation.

3. JONNY BACK TO FORM

Jonny Otto has made a welcome return to the starting line-up in the recent weeks and has slotted back in like he's never been away. The Spaniard could be a good option for Fantasy Premier League teams at just £4.3. Jonny has been picked by just 1.5 per cent of FPL managers and is Wolves' fifth-highest points earner, despite missing four matches through injury. Against Bournemouth and Liverpool he was a threat in both halves and already got off the mark for the season against Southampton in September. He'll be looking to add to his tally at Craven Cottage, so now looks the time to draft him in.

4. SESSEGNON BACK FIT?

Fulham look set to welcome back one of their prized possessions on Boxing Day, with Ryan Sessegnon returning to fitness. Last season's Championship Player of the Year has missed the last two matches, but has undoubted ability. The youngster has netted once against Cardiff, but provided two assists in Ranieri's first game against Southampton. Frank Anguissa will miss out once again through injury.

Diogo Jota is likely to miss out once again on Wednesday, a big loss to Wolves after he began to hit form earlier this month. He'll be the only absentee for Nuno, who will decide if to bring the likes of Morgan Gibbs-White, Ivan Cavaleiro and Helder Costa into his starting line-up.

5. CAVALEIRO WARY OF FULHAM

Ivan Cavaleiro is on three goals for the season and is excited for a return to action at Craven Cottage. The Portuguese forward spoke pre-match and is wary of the threat Fulham will pose, despite their lowly position in the Premier League.



https://www.wolves.co.uk/news/first-team/20181221-fulham-vs-wolves-5-things-to-know/#

 
Report: Fulham want Besiktas defender Domagoj Vida

Premier League strugglers Fulham need a new centre-back and could reportedly go for Croatian World Cup finalist Domagoj Vida in January.

Domagoj Vida might have missed out on a move to the Premier League in the summer but it seems he still has admirers in arguably the most high-profile competition in world football.

According to Fotomac, Fulham have expressed an interest in signing the Besiktas defender with the January transfer window set to open in a week.

Understandably, a new centre-back is a top priority for Claudio Ranieri, with Fulham's defensive record leaving a lot to be desired. The Cottagers have conceded an eye-watering 42 goals in 18 games since promotion, although they did claim their first clean sheet of the season in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Newcastle United.

And Fotomac believes that Vida, whose reputation skyrocketed after he helped Croatia reach the World Cup final in Russia, has emerged as Fulham's number one target.

Strong, physical and commanding, the former Dinamo Kiev man would certainly enhance a defence that has looked far too open all season.

Fanatik claimed in the summer that Besiktas were demanding £30 million for Vida, however, so Fulham will be praying that they are willing to settle for less. Fortunately for Ranieri, Besiktas are in dire straits financially, having been forced to release Vida's centre-back partner Pepe earlier in December.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/12/24/do-report-fulham-want-30m-besiktas-defender-domagoj-vida/

 
Why Alfie Mawson was PUNCHED in head by his own team-mate

The Fulham defender was smashed by keeper Sergio Rico... and a team mate thinks he knows why

Tom Cairney has revealed the real reason why he thinks Alfie Mawson was PUNCHED by his own keeper Sergio Rico.

Fulham's England U21 defender took a hammer blow from Rico during their 0-0 draw at Newcastle as he tried to make a clearance.

Mawson was left flat out on the pitch and needing lengthy treatment to check he didn't have concussion.

The right hook to the cheekbone was so badly time it has left Fulham players speculating as to why Mawson was decked!

Now Cairney has revealed all - and it could be a legacy of the player's Christmas knees up.

He said: "Sergio said he owed him money from the Christmas do so he was waiting for it a little bit!

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article13773831.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_Huddersfield-Town-v-Newcastle-United-Premier-League.jpg)
Sergio Rico clocks team-mate Alfie Mawson (Image: Newcastle Utd via Getty Images)

"It was a double hand punch as well. I heard Alfie calling for it early so I think Sergio just wanted to do it!"

Hard lad Mawson insisted: "It's fine, it's fine, it's fine.

"The staff were worrying and I understand that, but looking back it was quite funny to be honest. I couldn't afford to be up in the air and pull away.

"If Sergio had done the same then we would have been in trouble. It is what it is. It's sore but there you go, you just carry on."

Fulham have found a formula to keep a clean sheet after 21 Premeir League games conceding, including 42 leaked this season.

Mawson said: "Ranieri's been brilliant. Three centre halves is a formation that does suit us with the ability we've got on the ball and the belief we can get forward more."

Mawson is back in the side after being dropped and "letting my standards slip."

He added: ""It was tough, but at the end of the day we do the best job in the world so I can't complain. I'm not going to moan or go mad at decisions or throw my toys out of the pram. That isn't me.

"It was a test for me because I've played the last two seasons back to back every game, but you have to get on with it.

"It was different for me, being pushed out of my comfort zone and I wouldn't say I enjoyed it but I've learned things about myself and my body which I might not have learned if I was playing all the time.

"It's good to be back in and now I've got to make sure I don't give the manager the chance to get rid of me to be honest."

Fulham play Wolves and Huddersfield at home over Christmas.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/alfie-mawson-punched-head-team-13773775

 
De la Torre lined up for January loan move

Fulham are looking to send Luca de la Torre out on loan.

The 20-year-old has been on the periphery of the Whites first team for some time.

Fulham will allow him to leave for more first-team games next month and they have received initial interest from clubs in Germany and the Netherlands.

Several League One clubs are also interested in the midfielder but he would favour a move abroad.

Major League Soccer outfit New England Revolution asked about him earlier this year but have since cooled their interest.

The United States international impressed for Fulham in the League Cup win at Millwall earlier this season – his 10th appearance for the first team.

Follow Fulham academy player Matt O'Riley is also potentially available for a loan move next month.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-duo-lined-up-for-loan-moves-as-dutch-and-german-clubs-show-interest

 
Fulham v Wolverhampton Wanderers
WED 26 Dec 2018   Premier League
Venue: Craven Cottage


TEAM NEWS

Fulham are hopeful Ryan Sessegnon can play on Boxing Day after two games out with a groin injury.

Midfielder Frank Anguissa remains sidelined and is not expected to return until the new year, according to manager Claudio Ranieri.

Wolves are again likely to be without forward Diogo Jota, who missed the defeat by Liverpool because of a hamstring injury.

He is Wolves' only injury concern heading into the festive period.

---

VIEW FROM THE DUGOUT

Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri: "Nuno Espirito Santo is doing a very good job. I watched the match against Liverpool, and Wolverhampton played fantastically.

"They created two or three great chances in the first half. It will be another tough match for us."

Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves on facing bottom club Fulham: "We don't think about the table, we think about the game, we think about what we have to do.

"Fulham, we know already [from last season] is a very good team and it is a tough stadium to play, and we have to focus on that."

---

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

    Fulham ended a nine-match winless streak in this fixture by beating Wolves 2-0 at home when the sides last met in February.
    This is their first Premier League meeting since March 2012, when Fulham recorded a 5-0 home win.
    Wolves have never won in four previous Premier League trips to Craven Cottage, losing twice.

Fulham

    Fulham have claimed five points from six games since Claudio Ranieri was appointed manager.
    The Whites kept their first clean sheet of the season at Newcastle last Saturday - it was their first in 21 Premier League matches.
    They have failed to score in six of their last nine league games.
    Ranieri has never won a Premier League Boxing Day fixture in six previous attempts, losing four of them.
    Only three sides in Premier League history have avoided relegation having been bottom of the table at Christmas: Leicester in 2014, Sunderland in 2013 and West Brom in 2004.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

    Wolves have won three and lost three of their last six league fixtures.
    They have kept one clean sheet in 10 matches, having begun the season with four in their opening eight games.
    Nuno Espirito Santo's side have lost all three of their Premier League games played on Boxing Day.
    This will be Wolves' 100th league game played on Boxing Day, making them just the second side to play as many on the date, after neighbours West Bromwich Albion.
    Wolves have 25 points after 18 games, which is as many as they accrued in total in their last Premier League season in 2011-12.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/46615162

Cottage Talk: View Of The Opposition - Thomas Baugh From The Wolves Blog
Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

This episode is an interview with Thomas Baugh, who is the editor of the Wolves Blog, and he was on to preview the upcoming match for Fulham against Wolves.

During the intervew, he shared his views on Wolves so far this season. We ended the show with Thomas sharing his thoughts on this upcoming the match, and he gave a prediction. This is our preview show for this match.


You can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/12/24/18154907/cottage-talk-view-of-the-opposition-thomas-baugh-from-the-wolves-blog

 
Premier League predictions: Lawro v James bassist Jim Glennie

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's stint as interim Manchester United manager began with a bang as they won 5-1 at Cardiff on Saturday, but how will he get on in his first home game in charge?

United host struggling Huddersfield Town on 26 December and BBC Sport's football expert Mark Lawrenson says: "The atmosphere will be great at Old Trafford, which it wasn't very often under Jose Mourinho, and the players already look in a better mood too.

"Solskjaer's approach will be very different to what the fans have seen recently. It will be all about passing forward and creating chances - United will have a smile on their faces, and they will be playing as if the shackles have come off."

This week's guest is Jim Glennie, bassist with rock band James and a Manchester City fan.

It is safe to say that Glennie is enjoying life under Pep Guardiola - not just City's success, but the way they have achieved it.

"It is absolutely fantastic," he told BBC Sport. "I am getting to as many games as I can. First, because it is lovely to see us winning games for a change, but also because of the quality of the football.

"Regardless of it being City, it is just stunning. It is so entertaining to watch."

City suffered a shock home defeat by Crystal Palace on Saturday that leaves them four points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool but Glennie is still pretty confident about their prospects of defending their title.

"When we get to the thick end of the season, I think City's squad will just kind of steamroller through it and I cannot see Liverpool keeping it together - but I have been saying that for the past 10 games or so already."

LAWRO'S PREDICTIONS
WEDNESDAY

Fulham v Wolves (12:30 GMT)

Wolves got in some good positions in their defeat by Liverpool on Friday, but could not make the most of them.

Adama Traore played up front in that game and, although he is lightning quick, he just is not a goalscorer. He had a couple of chances where he should have done a lot better.

Fulham got a good point against Newcastle on Saturday and a clean sheet too, which was another positive after a difficult few weeks.

I actually thought they looked a better team than the Magpies, and if Claudio Ranieri can get a repeat performance in this game, I can see them getting a much-needed win.

Lawro's prediction: 2-1

Jim's prediction: 1-2



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/46622613

 
Fulham v Wolves: Sessegnon eyes return, Wolves star set to miss out

Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri has no fresh injury problems ahead of the Boxing Day clash with Wolves.

Winger Ryan Sessegnon missed Saturday's goalless Premier League draw at Newcastle with a groin strain and could return as the Whites attempt to build upon a first Premier League clean sheet of the season on Tyneside.

There was no place either for midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa as he recovers from a knock, but Ranieri reported an otherwise clean bill of health after the 90 minutes at St James' Park.

Provisional squad: Rico, Bettinelli, Fabri, Fosu-Mensah, Christie, Odoi, Chambers, Mawson, Ream, Ayite, Bryan, Seri, Johansen, De La Torre, McDonald, Kebano, R Sessegnon, S Sessegnon, Schurrle, Vietto, Mitrovic, Fonte, Cairney, Kamara.

Diogo Jota is likely to miss out as he continues to battle a hamstring injury.

Boss Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed the forward remains a doubt having missed Friday's 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.

Conor Coady and Ryan Bennett are one caution away from a suspension ahead of the yellow card amnesty.

Provisional squad: Patricio, Ruddy, Norris, Doherty, Dendoncker, Bennett, Enobakhare, Hause, Boly, Coady, Gibbs-White, Jonny, Saiss, Neves, Costa, Moutinho, Vinagre, Bonatini, Traore, Jimenez.



http://londonfootballnews.co.uk/fulham/fulham-v-wolves-sessegnon-eyes-return-wolves-star-set-to-miss-out/

 
Forget Lys Mousset – Fulham must instead turn their attention towards this 7-goal Bundesliga sensation and here is why

Dodi Lukebakio would make a great January signing for Fulham

According to Sky Sports, Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri is keen to bolster his squad in January to help the Cottagers in their bid for survival in the top-flight.

If reports are to be believed, Ranieri in interested in adding a centre-back, a right-back and a striker in January and Bournemouth's out of favour youngster Lys Mousset has emerged on his radar.

The 22-year-old has struggled to make an impact on the south coast since making a move from Le Havre back in 2016. The French U21 international's involvement has been limited to just 7 starts over the course of two seasons.

Granted, Mousset is a promising youngster who can add more depth to Fulham's squad but the Cottagers need some in-form players to boost their chances of survival. They need s striker who can hit the ground running immediately after making a move in January as the west Londoners are already rock bottom of the table in the relegation zone.

And someone like Dodi Lukebakio definitely fits the bill at Craven Cottage. Much like Lys Mousset, he is a promising youngster and the Belgium-born Congolese striker has been making a lot of noise in the Bundesliga this season.

A product of Anderlecht's youth system, Lukebakio made his move to Watford in January last season but was loaned out to Fortuna Dusseldorf at the start of the ongoing campaign after making a single Premier League appearance for the Hornets.

The 21-year-old was once again on target in the Bundesliga this week as Fortuna Dusseldorf pulled off a major upset to end Borussia Dortmund's winning streak. Lukebakio has made eyeballs turn with his consistently impressive performances in the German top flight for a relegation contending club, scoring 7 goals from 14 appearances.

If there is anything that embodies his fine start to the season, it has to be his hat-trick in Fortuna Dusseldorf's 3-3 draw against Bayern Munich last month. As a matter of fact,  Lukenakio became the first player in the history of Bundesliga to net three goals in a single game past Manuel Neuer.

The 21-year-old, who has 12 caps for Belgium at the U21 level, is a tactically versatile attacker with a good enough technique who is capable of playing in a number of positions in the final third. Essentially a left-footed inverted winger or a wide forward down the right, Lukebakio is also capable of playing as a conventional winger down the left and as a centre-forward.

His main attributes are his lightning pace, mesmerizing dribbling skills and instant acceleration. He is adept at cutting inside from the right onto his stronger left foot and creates space for himself to fire powerful shots from outside the box. An explosive attacker, Lukebakio is known for his quick feet, good close control and unpredictable movement in the final third and can be a handful for any opposition on a given day.

To put things into perspective, Fulham need an explosive and energetic player like him to add that cutting-edge to their attack. Andre Schurrle has been inconsistent and the Cottagers have apparently lacked a plan 'B' when Aleksandar Mitrovic hasn't fired.

Given that Lukebakio is currently on loan from Watford, Fulham should try to test their resolve with their financial muscle to cut short the loan agreement and secure his services permanently in January.



https://www.mediareferee.com/2018/12/24/forget-lys-mousset-fulham-must-instead-turn-their-attention-towards-this-7-goal-bundesliga-sensation-and-here-is-why/

 
Fulham fans will be delighted by Roy Hodgson's fond away memories

In the aftermath of Crystal Palace's stunning 3-2 away win against Manchester City, Roy Hodgson was naturally asked where the result ranked among his best career matches.

Hodgson's response will delight Fulham fans, as the Englishman cited a game from the Whites' Great Escape season when discussing his fondest managerial feats.

In comments reported by football.london, Hodgson fondly recalls Fulham's come-from-behind victory at Eastlands in 2008 as one of his favourite ever matches.

"[Saturday's win] ranks very highly but probably doesn't rank as highly as the one many years ago that kept Fulham in with a shout of staying in the Premier Division," Hodgson said. "It didn't keep us in the Premier Division, it's just at 2-0 at half-time, had that result stayed – and even if we pulled it back to 2-2 – we would have been relegated... we won the game 3-2 which was a deja-vu moment back to today."

Although Hodgson noted the Manchester City side of 2018 possessed far more quality than the team Fulham beat a decade ago, the Cottagers' win was far more meaningful.

From effectively down and out at halftime to a buoyant away win 45 minutes later, Hodgson engineered a famous fightback that saved Fulham's Premier League status. Propelled by a brace from Diomansy Kamara and a goal from Danny Murphy, Fulham won at the Etihad and were granted the momentum they needed to survive.

Ten years later, Roy Hodgson still remembers that fateful day at the Etihad, and luckily for Fulham fans, rates it higher than Crystal Palace's stunning weekend win.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-fans-will-be-delighted-by-roy-hodgsons-fond-away-memories/

 
Revealed: 82% of Swansea fans want to hijack Fulham's move for Lys Mousset

According to the results of a recent Football FanCast poll, a large majority of Swansea fans want Graham Potter to hijack Fulham's move for Bournemouth striker Lys Mousset.

The 22-year-old Frenchman has only made seven starts for the Cherries since his move from Le Havre in 2016, but after his impressive performance in the recent Carabao Cup loss to Chelsea, Eddie Howe told Sky Sports that Mousset would be an important part of the club's future.

Because of this Fulham may not succeed with their permanent offer, and 82 per cent of Swansea fans were keen for Potter to make a loan move to get the jump on the Premier League side.

Mousset is a technical player and his fitness is a big asset, meaning he would fit well in Potter's high-tempo, high-press system.

Signing a striker on loan should be a priority for the Swans too as they are currently reliant on Oliver McBurnie for the majority of their goals as Wilfried Bony looks to find form after his long-term injury.



https://www.footballfancast.com/championship/swansea-city/revealed-82-of-swansea-fans-want-to-hijack-fulhams-move-for-lys-mousset

 
With just 16 goals in 18 games, Fulham need this Belgian World Cup ace and Ranieri must get him

Why Fulham should plot an ambitious January swoop for Adnan Januzaj

Slavisa Jokanovic helped Fulham achieve promotion to the Premier League after winning last season's play-off final against Aston Villa.

To make their position strong in England's top-flight league, Fulham backed Slavisa Jokanovic with a lot of money in the summer. A lot of exciting signings were made and the Cottagers looked set to enjoy their ride back in the Premier League after four long years.

Unfortunately, things haven't panned out as the Fulham supporters would have hoped as the West Londoners currently lie rock bottom of the table, having conceded a staggering 42 goals in just 18 games.

Jokanovic was sacked last month and replaced by Claudio Ranieri. The Italian tactician has done very little so far to suggest Fulham will be in the Premier League after the end of 38 games. Ranieri clearly needs reinforcements in January to steer Fulham out of relegation and while the priority has to be to strengthen the defence, he cannot overlook the need to bolster his attacking ranks.

The Cottagers have scored just 16 goals in 18 games despite having the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic, Luciano Vietto, Andre Schurrle and Aboubakar Kamara in the squad. Mitrovic has spearheaded Fulham's attack and has a decent tally of 7 goals in 18 games to show for in an underperforming side.

But the big Serb has lacked support from his fellow attackers and Ranieri must get an attacker capable of scoring goals and assisting aplenty. To put things into perspective, Fulham must make a move for Real Sociedad star Adnan Januzaj.

The 23-year-old had an impressive debut season with Real Sociedad in the La Liga, bagging 3 goals and 5 assists and his performances were enough to earn him a call-up to Belgium's 2018 World Cup squad. He has started this in good form as well, assisting twice in seven league games.

A technically-gifted player, Adnan Januzaj is an agile, left-footed winger who can play in various positions in the final third. He combines his wonderful technique with his skill-set and stature to keep exceptional close control in tight areas along the flanks.

The Belgian has blistering pace and his sharpness, agility and instant acceleration coupled with his creative passing make him a potent threat in the final third.

The former Manchester United star not only has the ability to leave the defenders for dead with his sudden burst of pace and movement but he is capable of delivering spectacular goals with his left foot. Furthermore, Januzaj is also a decent finisher in front of the goal.

All in all, Januzaj can definitely add the X-factor to Ranieri's attack and also provide cover and competition for the likes of Vietto, Schurrle and Kamara. Therefore, a move for the 23-year-old Belgian would be a step in the right direction for the Cottagers.

Truth be told, Januzaj definitely deserves another chance in the Premier League after failing at Manchester United and Sunderland.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/12/25/with-just-16-goals-in-18-games-fulham-need-this-belgian-world-cup-ace-and-ranieri-must-get-him/

 
Claudio Ranieri admits Fulham need points but not only at Craven Cottage
Watch Fulham host Wolves on Boxing Day, live on Sky Sports Premier League from 12pm

Claudio Ranieri says he would love Fulham to make Craven Cottage a fortress as they battle to maintain their Premier League status, but his immediate priority is to pick up points.

Fulham host Wolves on Boxing Day, live on Sky Sports, before another home game against fellow strugglers Huddersfield on Saturday is followed by a trip to face Unai Emery's Arsenal on January 1.

Ranieri, whose side will spend Christmas bottom of the league, has picked up four points from his three home games in charge so far but the Italian says where his side win points is of little significance in the short term.

"I would like to get more points at home because in front of our fans they deserve it," Ranieri said.

"But in this moment wherever I can get points is not important. Getting points is more important than where."

After the club's goalless draw against Newcastle on Saturday, Ranieri stressed his belief Fulham would avoid relegation and the vastly experienced Italian says their fans can provide a boost as they strive to move away from danger.

"Our fans are very close to us and they believe," he added.

"If I believe, they believe. If they believe they strengthen everything. We try to transmit to them our strength.

"We feel our fans are behind us. It is important. They fight a lot to get back into the Premier League. That is important for us, for them, for everybody."

Wolves were also promoted to the Premier League last season but, while the Cottagers have failed to impress, their opponents have earned plaudits under the leadership of Nuno Espirito Santo.

"[Under] Nuno Espirito Santo, Wolves are working very well. He has created a very good team," Ranieri said.

"They play well - well done to him. I am not surprised because I know [Santo]. I follow him and his teams. I know he is a very good manager."

Asked why both clubs had enjoyed contrasting success in the opening half of the season, Ranieri was pragmatic about why Fulham hadn't been able to kick on following their return to the top flight for the first time in four years.

"It is life. It is football. Football is fantastic for this reason," he said.

"There are teams stronger than others but you can never say a victory is sure for one team."



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11588280/claudio-ranieri-says-fulham-need-points-whether-they-come-at-home-or-not

 
Chelsea could save rival's Premier League life by sanctioning triple deal

CHELSEA could dish out a late Christmas present to one of their Premier League rivals in the January transfer window.

Maurizio Sarri has a bloated squad with a number of first-team players on the fringes under the Italian tactician.

Gary Cahill, Danny Drinkwater and Victor Moses are the three most high-profile players to have been frozen out.

Cahill - out of contract at the end of the season - has been limited to seven appearances in all competitions, Drinkwater has not featured since the Community Shield defeat to Manchester City while Moses has started once all season.

SW6 neighbours Fulham have been linked with the trio, who will be allowed to leave in the mid-season sales.

Cahill, a serial trophy winner with years of experience, would improve the quality of Claudio Ranieri's defence.

Alfie Mawson is beginning to show signs of the form that previously saw him earn an England call up in March but question marks remain over Denis Odoi and Tim Ream's ability to step up from the Championship.

Drinkwater won the Premier League at Leicester under Ranieri and would be the perfect midfield anchor for the Italian.

That is a possession where Fulham have struggled in the top flight.

(https://cdn.images.dailystar.co.uk/dynamic/58/photos/265000/620x/Chelsea-Transfer-News-749657.jpg?r=5c220b6e1b6cf)
Gary Cahill, Danny Drinkwater and Victor Moses could all leave in January (Pic: GETTY)

Kevin McDonald has struggled with the pace in the top-flight, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa has failed to impress while Calum Chambers' outstanding work rate is belied by an ability to retain possession.

The other area where Fulham could do with strengthening is on the right-hand side.

Cyrus Christie and Timothy Fosu-Mensah have battled it out for the right-back spot to little success while Andre Schurrle is a poor fit on the wing, despite his goal threat.

Moses' ability to play anywhere on the right-hand side of the pitch would be ideal.

Chelsea have been generous to Fulham on the transfer front in recent seasons.

Tomas Kalas and Lucas Piazon spent two seasons on loan at Craven Cottage in the Championship so it would be little surprise if the two clubs strike further deals in January.

Fulham sit bottom of the Premier League table on Christmas Day - but the arrival of Cahill, Drinkwater and Moses would given them a huge boost in the bid to avoid the drop.



https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/749657/Chelsea-Transfer-News-Gary-Cahill-Danny-Drinkwater-Victor-Moses-Fulham

 
Three signings Fulham should make in January

Fulham chairman Shahid Khan has made it clear he will back Claudio Ranieri in the January transfer window, with the Whites needing new faces in order to lift themselves from the foot of the league table.

Here are three signings Fulham should make in the winter transfer window.

Danny Drinkwater

A lack of solidity in the centre of midfield has been a major reason Fulham have conceded an exorbitant amount of goals to date, and a tenacious player such as Danny Drinkwater would be an excellent choice to shore up the Whites' midfield.

Ranieri has a strong connection with Drinkwater from their time at Leicester City, when the Italian turned the midfielder into a title-winning force.

Now exiled at Chelsea, a move down Fulham Road to Craven Cottage would be a smart switch for Danny Drinkwater in January.

Gary Cahill

Another Chelsea reject, Cahill has barely featured for the Blues all season, and must be furious with Maurizio Sarri's lack of faith in him.

The England international can still defend resolutely at the highest level and would be a massive upgrade on Fulham's current options at the back.

A strong, authoritative presence in the heart of defence like Gary Cahill could turn around the leaky Fulham backline in 2019.

Nathaniel Clyne

Fulham's defence needs to be strengthened next month, and the right back position is one area that has been particularly suspect for the Whites.

Denis Odoi, Timothy Fosu-Mensah, and Cyrus Chrsitie have all been stationed there with little success, opening the door for Nathaniel Clyne to arrive on loan in January.

Manchester United loanee Fosu-Mensah has been exiled from the squad under Claudio Ranieri, indicating he is set to be sent back to Old Trafford and for another defender to arrive on loan.

Fulham must make it a priority to ensure Clyne is that player, as the Premier League-savvy defender offers pace, experience, and aggression in defence.



https://tbrfootball.com/three-signings-fulham-should-make-in-january/

 
Fulham vs Wolves – Premier League preview, prediction, odds, how to watch on TV and live stream

A look ahead to the Boxing Day clash at Craven Cottage

Fulham and Wolves kick off the Boxing Day programme when face off at Craven Cottage tomorrow afternoon.

Wolves head into the fixture on the back of a 2-0 defeat by Liverpool but their recent results, including a 2-1 win over Chelsea, suggest they're favourites for victory.

Fulham, meanwhile, continue to languish at the bottom of the table on 10 points. They've managed just one win from their last 13 games and are in desperate need of a result.

What time is it?

The match kicks off at 12.30pm on Wednesday 26 December. Coverage starts at 12pm.

Where can I watch it?

Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League will be broadcasting the match. Subscribers can live stream the match via the Sky Sports app or online.

Form guide:

Fulham: DLLDLW

Wolves: LWWWLL

Odds:

Fulham to win: 9/4

Draw: 12/5

Wolves to win: 11/8

Prediction:

Wolves to win 3-1



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-vs-wolves-live-stream-info-online-premier-league-2018-latest-score-goals-tv-watch-a8698901.html

 
All 12 of Fulham's summer signings ranked so far

Fulham's summer business has perhaps become more notorious than any other club this offseason. The Whites spent over 100 million pounds after gaining promotion, bringing in a full 12 players to Craven Cottage.

Here is a comprehensive ranking of all of the summer arrivals, halfway into the league season.

    Aleksandar Mitrovic

It is a telling sign of Fulham's transfer business that their best signing isn't truly a new face. Mitrovic's loan was made permanent in the summer from Newcastle, and the Serbian has been the Cottagers' best player since.

The top scorer that has played a role in more than half of Fulham's total league goals to date, the Whites simply would flounder without their star striker.

2. Calum Chambers

The Arsenal loanee was initially terrible when utilised at the back, yet a switch to centre midfield has brought out the best in Chambers.

Now one of Fulham's most influential players, Chambers is a rock in the centre of midfield, breaking up play and starting attacks with determination.

3. Sergio Rico

Fulham's current first-choice goalkeeper was number three in the goalkeeping pecking order earlier in the season, yet after Fabri and Marcus Bettinelli fell to the side, the Sevilla loanee flourished.

A player with Europa League and La Liga experience, Rico's saves have been vital and he has commanded his penalty area with authority in recent weeks.

4. Alfie Mawson

The centre-half is finally starting to show signs of the player everyone expected him to be, most notably producing a gargantuan display in the weekend scoreless draw at Newcastle.

An injury kept Mawson out for the opening month of the season and clearly impacted his form once he returned to the first team; luckily for Fulham, the defender appears to be back to his dominating self at the heart of defence.

5. Joe Bryan

The left back was signed from Bristol City in the summer, but has struggled to adapt to life in the top flight. A hamstring strain ruled him out for over a month in the fall, and he recently displaced Maxime le Marchand in the starting lineup.

Prone to mistakes at times, Bryan still has much to learn about Premier League defending, yet has potential to be a quality wingback at Craven Cottage.

6. Andre Schurrle

Perhaps Fulham's most high-profile signing, the World Cup winner has enjoyed a mixed time at Craven Cottage.

Schurrle has registered five goals so far, second only behind Mitrovic, revealing his knack for audacious finishes.

Yet the German has attempted a ridiculous number of shots in the process, often wayward in his shooting and wasteful in possession. And the winger is simply not cut out for a relegation dogfight, lacking the pace, aggression, and passion to fight for Fulham when it matters most.

7. Maxime le Marchand

The French defender joined Fulham along with fellow Nice teammate Jean-Michael Seri, yet surprisingly, it is Le Marchand who has played better at Craven Cottage.

Able to play either centre-back or wingback, the defender's versatility is useful, yet Le Marchand has a penchant for gifting the opposition possession with sloppy passes out from the back.

Utilised at left back for Jokanovic's final matches and for the opening games of Ranieri's tenure, Le Marchand has now fallen out favour and out of the starting lineup.

8. Luciano Vietto

Another loanee from a top European club, Vietto's time at Fulham has been inconsistent. Often used out wide in Jokanovic's 4-3-3- system, the Argentine looked bright in attack and contributed vital assists in the early months of the season.

Yet his influence has diminished ever since, fading out of matches, failing to finish clear-cut opportunities, and getting bullied off the ball by more physical players.

9. Timothy Fosu-Mensah

The Manchester United loanee's time at Fulham already appears to be coming to a close, with Ranieri completely freezing out the right back ever since being appointed manager.

Fosu-Mensah showed glimpses of brilliance, barging forward from the back with purposeful runs, but his defending was haphazard and his delivery poor. Fulham will do well to replace the youngster with a more experienced option in January.

10. Jean-Michael Seri

The signing that many hailed as the coup of the summer window has resulted in failure. Seri's contributions to Fulham have been far outweighed by his negative traits and his inability to adapt to English football.

Never keen to track back, quick to give the ball away in terrible positions, and lacking any sort of intensity, Seri has been the biggest disappointment at Fulham all season.

11. Fabri

Brought in to Craven Cottage by Fulham's now-departed goalkeeping coach, the signing of Fabri already appears to be a multi-million pound mistake.

The Spaniard was unconvincing in the opening matches of the season and was quickly dropped in favour of Bettinelli. Since his demotion, Fabri has not played a minute in the league for Fulham since, and is firmly third choice in SW6.

12. Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa

Simply put, Anguissa is not fit to be a top-flight footballer. His touch is abysmal, his work-rate is poor, and his knack for attempting to take on five opposition players in his own defensive third is maddening.

One only needs to look at his performance against Manchester United, where Anguissa was the worst player on the pitch before being sent off in the second half.

The midfielder is still young and undoubtedly has potential, yet the decision to splash upwards of 20 million pounds on an unproven maverick looks misguided.



https://tbrfootball.com/all-12-of-fulhams-summer-signings-ranked-so-far/

 
'This time last year we were 17th': Tom Cairney issues warning to anyone writing off Fulham this season

    Fulham were 17th in the Championship last Christmas before a sensational run
    This year the Cottagers are bottom of the league and four points from safety
    Fulham host Wolves on Boxing Day lunchtime as they start survival push

Tom Cairney has reminded anyone who is writing off Fulham's survival chances that they were 17th in the Championship last Christmas.

The Cottagers are bottom of the Premier League and four points from safety after winning just two of their opening 18 matches following promotion.

However Cairney said: 'This time last year we were 17th and then we got to Christmas and just turned it on. Hopefully we can do it again.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2018/12/25/14/7814810-6528693-image-a-23_1545748057387.jpg)
Tom Cairney has warned anyone who is writing off Fulham's survival chances this season

'The next two games, at home to Wolves and Huddersfield, and the next month is season defining.

'I'm definitely confident we can stay in the league. We've got to be the fourth worst team. When you put it like that, it's reachable.'

Fulham kept their first clean sheet of the season during Saturday's stalemate at Newcastle, and Cairney believes that is down to the influence of new boss Claudio Ranieri.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2018/12/25/14/7814814-6528693-image-m-25_1545748087648.jpg)
Fulham were 17th in the Championship last Christmas before a sensational run took them up

'Things have changed,' added the midfielder. 'The two managers we've had are very different.

'Slavisa Jokanovic was quite high press and attacking football, as you've seen in the Championship and at the start of this season, whereas the gaffer now is Italian.

'There's a lot more shape, concentrating on being solid, breaking and hitting teams on the counter. Two different managers, two different styles of play - hopefully this one works for us.'



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6528693/Tom-Cairney-issues-warning-writing-Fulham-season.html

 
Three surprise packages at Fulham so far

Fulham enjoyed a whirlwind transfer window that brought many new faces to Craven Cottage, including some intriguing talents.

Here are three of Fulham's most surprising packages so far this campaign.

Calum Chambers

The Arsenal loanee arrived in SW6 with a reputation for being a solid centre-half, yet Chambers' performances at the back were nothing short of dreadful.

And in one of Slavisa Jokanovic's most successful decisions in his short reign in the Premier League, the former Whites manager shifted Chambers to a central defensive midfield role.

The Englishman is now one of the first names on the Fulham team-sheet in centre midfield, a stark turnaround from his abysmal early displays in defence.

Denis Odoi

After Odoi's sending off in the play-off final, few expected the Belgian centre-half to appear for Fulham in the Premier League.

Rarely a mainstay in the Championship, Odoi only broke into the starting lineup consistently towards the end of the 17/18 season. Yet the defender has been practically everpresent at the back for Fulham in the top flight.

His partnership with Alfie Mawson appeared promising early on in Claudio Ranieri's reign, and save for a couple of shaky displays at right back, Odoi has acquitted himself well this season amid a disastrous defence.

Jean-Michael Seri

The summer signing from Nice is unfortunately on the list as a disappointing surprise, due to the Ivorian's dreadful displays in centre-midfield.

One of many acquisitions who arrived with a glittering resume and high expectations, Seri has immensely struggled to adapt to English football.

Prone to giving the ball away in terrible areas, failing to properly track back, and generally appearing disinterested on the pitch, Fulham must hope Seri can sort out his form in 2019.



https://tbrfootball.com/three-surprise-packages-at-fulham-so-far/

 
Why Fulham should arrest their fall by landing this 6ft 1in Bundesliga star in January

Why Fulham should go all out to sign Willi Orban in January

Basement club Fulham boast just 10 points from 18 games and have conceded in every game except one this season. The Cottagers are currently bottom of the Premier League following four years in the Championship and have conceded a league-high 42 goals.

Claudio Ranieri, who replaced Slavisa Jokanovic at Craven Cottage last month, has won just once in last five Premier League games but his team have conceded a whopping 11 goals. Fulham desperately need to start picking up points during the festive period of the season but first and foremost, a clean sheet is the need of the hour to kick-start their Premier League survival fight.

The Cottagers face Newcastle United, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Huddersfield Town and Arsenal in 11 days – a massive test Ranieri will look to pass with flying colours. But come January, the Italian tactician should bring in a central defender to strengthen his porous backline which has conceded goals at an alarming rate following their promotion to the top-flight.

That said, Fulham must target RB Leipzig's defensive lynchpin, Willi Orban. The 26-year-old has been in very good form for an RB Leipzig team that's in the fight for a top-four spot in the Bundesliga this season.

Standing tall at 6ft 1in, he has the ideal height for a central defender, which helps him stamp his authority in the air. The four-cap Hungary international is a defender with a sound technique, which allows him to run comfortably with the ball at his feet and pass it around to his teammates with ease.

The Kaiserslautern-born defender is a decent tackler and has the ability to cut out the attacks with crucial interceptions. Willi Orban has the tendency to move further up the pitch at times to cut the passing lanes, not allowing the opposition to play an incisive pass in the final third. He reads the game very well and due to his ball-playing abilities, the 26-year-old can initiate attacks from the back as well.

Ranieri has managed to bring back a bit of life to Craven Cottage, yet they still need a leader to help them out defensively. The likes of Alfie Mawson, Maxime Le Marchand and Calum Chambers have all failed to nail down a regular place in the team, leaving Fulham in shambles defensively and with the worst defensive record in the league.

Orban is experienced and skilled enough to repair the Cottagers' vulnerable backline. Signing Orban would not only help Fulham obtain an experienced centre-back but also a leader that can save the West London club's ship from sinking.

Hence, Ranieri must do everything in his powers to get a deal done for the Hungary international in January.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/12/26/why-fulham-should-arrest-their-fall-by-landing-this-6ft-1in-bundesliga-star-in-january/

 
Despite spending over £100m in the summer, Fulham must do everything to sign this La Liga sensation in January

Why Fulham must go all out for Enis Bardhi in January

According to a report from Football.London, Fulham owner Shahid Khan has promised to back manager Claudio Ranieri in the forthcoming January transfer window.

Fulham lie rock bottom in the table after 18 games, amassing just 10 points following their promotion to the top-flight. Understandably, strengthening the defence has to be the top priority for Claudio Ranieri, with the Cottagers' defensive record leaving a lot to be desired.

The West Londoners have conceded an eye-watering 42 goals in 18 games since promotion, although they did claim their first clean sheet of the season in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Newcastle United.

But Claudio Ranieri must not ignore bolstering his attacking options in January to help Fulham avoid relegation from the Premier League. The Cottagers spent over £100million in the summer transfer window on 12 players but the scripts didn't go as per the plan for the club, who sacked Slavisa Jokanovic after 12 matches that saw him pick up just five points.

Apart from making Aleksandar Mitrovic's deal permanent, the Cottagers brought in the likes of Andre Schurrle, Luciano Vietto and Jean Michael Seri to beef up their attack.

Mitrovic has been the club's chief source of goals with 7 in 18 games but barring him, the other attackers have been flat and have not produced the bare minimum which was expected out of them.

That said, it's also important for the basement club to splash the cash on another attacker. And Fulham should consider signing Levante star Enis Bardhi in the New Year.

Enis Bardhi, 23, enjoyed a fantastic debut season in La Liga, helping Levante to safety in their first campaign back in the top-flight. The Macedonia international of Albanian descent finished the previous season with 13 goals and 7 assists from the midfield, and although he has netted just once in 16 La Liga games this season, the 23-year-old remains one of Levante's key players.

A number 10 by trade, Enis Bardhi is equally adept in a deeper midfield role and on the wings. He is a technically-gifted and a tactically versatile player who gives the manager the flexibility to use him anywhere in the attack.

At his best, the 23-year-old is a joy to watch, finding pockets of space in the final third and gliding past defenders on driving runs towards goal. With his dribbling skills and eye for a killer pass, he is the key to unlocking the opposition. The diminutive Skopje-born star possesses superb close control and the awareness to pick up intelligent positions around the edge of the box.

Not only is Bardhi creative and possesses the vision to unlock defences, but he is also a tenacious and a feisty customer who works extremely hard to fall back and help his team defensively when required. Furthermore, the 23-year-old is a long-range specialist, with six of his nine strikes last season coming from outside the area.

Given Bardhi's qualities, he would be the type of player who would bring freshness and flair to Fulham's dull attack. Hence, the Cottagers should do everything possible to secure his services in January.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/12/26/despite-spending-over-100m-in-the-summer-fulham-must-do-everything-to-sign-this-la-liga-sensation-in-january/

Three Players to Watch: Matchday 19 vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers
Can Fulham finally build off of a solid result from last weekend

Just when you thought it was a good idea to savor a well-deserved draw, Fulham are back at it again a day after the Christmas holiday. It definitely is not convenient to go from one fixture to the next so soon, and with a 12:30pm local time kickoff to boot, but that's England's fixture list for you. At least this next one is happening at the friendly confines of Craven Cottage, and it's against a familiar opponent.

Last season, Fulham were battling Wolverhampton Wanderers for promotion spots back in the Championship with both finding a way to succeed in the end. What has made Wolves so successful throughout the past two seasons has been their consistently strong investment by the club's new ownership and sort of legal association with super agent Jorge Mendes. Along with that, manager Nuno Santo has developed a 3-4-3 system that has translated so well in both leagues that it takes some of the top flight's best efforts to break them down. Lastly, the players they have recruited simply had no business playing in England's second tier last campaign. You really mean to tell me that the likes of Diogo Jota, Ruben Neves and Ivan Cavaliero should be traveling to Burton on a cold January night?!

Now this club has brought in Rui Patricio, João Moutinho and the flashy Raúl Jiménez to add to an already strong senior team. The result has been a top-ten position in the Premier League table so far and a defense that sees them fourth in expected goals according to Understat. Now their possession of the ball has dwindled from 53.4% last season to 46.0% this campaign. Along with that, their 13.02 passes allowed per defensive action indicates that Fulham will have time on the ball.

In fact, you could argue that such statistics have led to having a Wolves attack that is surplus to requirements, but that doesn't mean that they don't have the talent to score at will. Until their defeat to Liverpool, they were in the midst of a three-game unbeaten run that saw them score twice in every contest and included a win over Chelsea. So regardless of what Wolves' profile looks like, this will be a daunting task for Fulham to collect a much needed three points.

Jota seems to be the lone casualty for Santos' squad as he is dealing with a hamstring injury while Fulham are only missing Andre Frank Zambio Anguissa to a knock he picked up in training. The previously suspended Cameroon International is expected be to out until the New Year, but Ryan Sessegnon and Maxime Le Marchand are supposed to be back to full fitness for tomorrow's fixture.

With that in mind, here are three players to watch out for coming from the West Midlands this Boxing Day.

Raúl Jiménez

First up is the 70 times capped Mexico International who arrived on loan from Benfica. This season, Jimenez hasn't disappointed at all as Wolves' front man with five goals, four assists and 3.28 shots per 90 minutes. Outside of having a much more accurate shot, he is everything you could ask for. But at the same time, that's kind of what has been expected out of Jimenez. After all, he has only scored 15 times in his 70 International caps, has only had a career 10.6% goal conversion rate and has never hit double digit goals in a European league campaign. These are uncharted waters for Jimenez to receive this much of a work load and a role within the team. But as of now, he has handled all challenges as well as he could and he will continue to be a force to be reckoned with the rest of the season.

João Moutinho

Next up is the 32-year old string puller of a midfielder that has garnered 113 caps for Portugal and counting. It has been amazing to see such a player with such a reputation only just make his way into the Premier League, but after playing for Sporting Lisbon, FC Porto and AS Monaco, he has finally arrived in the richest league in the world. Even at such an advanced age, no player on Wolves has more than Moutinho's 33 key passes and only Neves has matched his 0.28 xG buildup per 90 minutes among players playing over 400 league minutes. Add in Neves' shooting ability from defensive midfield and you can see how Wolves' double pivot is just world class.

Willy Boly
All data from whoscored.com

Lastly, we talk about one of the unsung heroes at Wolves that has been able to translate his game from the Championship to the Premier League. In spite of tougher opposition, Boly is still producing quite well at center back by leading all teammates with 85 defensive actions. Along with that, he scored the lone goal that resulted in Wolves' 1-1 draw with Manchester City earlier this campaign. As if the Neves-Moutinho axis was hard enough to break down, Fulham also have to get past another wall of three at the back to get closer towards goal. But if there's one from that trio that you can count on the most to be the most active, it is most likely going to be the former Auxerre, FC Porto and SC Braga journeyman.



https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/12/25/18155557/three-players-to-watch-matchday-19-vs-wolverhampton-wanderers

 
Claudio Ranieri tells his players they must improve their home form if they are to stay in the Premier League

    Fulham are bottom of the Premier League and are struggling at home
    They have picked up just eight points from a possible 24 at Craven Cottage
    Claudio Ranieri's Fulham side host Wolves and Huddersfield in next two games

Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri has urged his side to address their home form if they are to stand any chance of staying in the Premier League.

Ranieri's side are bottom of the league and have only taken eight points from a possible 24 at home. Only Cardiff have conceded more home goals than Fulham's 18.

'They fought a lot to get back into the Premier League so it's important for them,' Ranieri said.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2018/12/25/19/7818844-0-image-a-25_1545765616921.jpg)
Claudio Ranieri wants to see an improvement at home during the next few games

'I'd like to get more points at home in front of our fans because they deserve it. Did you see against West Ham? The fans are unbelievable. It was one of our best first halves, we conceded twice, but I am sure we will do better.'

Ranieri wasn't able to explain how his team have fared so differently to Wolves after the two clubs achieved promotion last season and then splurged in the summer.

Fulham spent £105million while Wolves spent £60m as they both hoped to impress in the top flight.

However, Fulham only have 10 points from 18 games, while Wolves on 25 points, find themselves 13 points clear of the relegation zone.

The Italian said: 'Always one team is stronger than another but you can never say it's sure they win.'



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6529005/Claudio-Ranieri-tells-players-improve-home-form.html

 
Team against Wolves 26/12
Over on the forum we've been discussing which players would be in our team against Wolves on Boxing Day...

WHITEJC

Subs: Betts, MLM, KMac, Ayite, Vietto, Schurrle

---

come over to the forum and join in the discussion
http://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?topic=68995.0



http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=554

 
Nuno Espirito Santo expects Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic to pose big threat to Wolves
Watch Wolves visit Fulham on Boxing Day, live on Sky Sports

Nuno Espirito Santo expects Aleksandar Mitrovic to provide a significant test when Wolves face Fulham on Boxing Day.

Both sides were promoted to the Premier League last season as both sides shared the spoils in the Championship, with the Serbia international scoring in a Fulham victory at Craven Cottage.

Nuno, whose side saw their three-match league-winning run ended by Liverpool on Friday, says his side must improve tactically if they are to contend with the threat of the striker, who signed for Fulham permanently in the summer.

"[Mitrovic] is one of the strikers who plays better with his back to goal," Nuno said.

"We have to work on that because last season he caused a lot of problems, especially because he was man-to-man with our last reference of defence. We have to balance better."

Mitrovic proved integral to Fulham in the second half of last season during a loan spell as the Cottagers returned to the top-flight via the play-offs, thanks in part to 12 goals from the former Newcastle player.

"In that moment he was clearly a player that really helped them," Nuno added.

"To get promoted their performance was fantastic and he is a very good player."

Nuno's side visit Claudio Ranieri's side targeting an eighth win of the campaign and the Portuguese boss expects a completely different test against a struggling Fulham compared with last season.

"Different realities. In those moments both teams were fighting for [the] objective of getting promoted," he said.

"Now the squads are totally different. I think we stayed more with the core of our squad - we maintained our main basis.

"Fulham is not the same team we faced last season. It is going to be totally different. What I can see is they have a very good manager and they are trying to get back to their ideas and I see a better team."

Ahead of the defeat against Liverpool, Nuno said his side would approach every match with the same approach and predicts fellow former Valencia boss Ranieri to have Fulham fighting hard for vital points in their battle to avoid relegation.

"What I expect is a very organised team, very well balanced team," he said.

"A team that is managed by a manager that was champion of the Premier League. It is going to be very difficult. Claudio is fantastic."



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11699/11588504/nuno-espirito-santo-expects-fulhams-aleksandar-mitrovic-to-pose-big-threat-to-wolves

 
Wolves not underestimating Fulham

Wolves didn't endure too many dark days last season, but their trip to Fulham was certainly one of them.

At a pivotal juncture in the title race, Nuno Espirito Santo's team were soundly beaten 2-0 by the Cottagers with Aleksandar Mitrovic running them ragged.

However, with Mitrovic just about the only player from that side still regularly turning out for Fulham due to a plethora of signings made last summer, it should be a different game today.

Fulham have had plenty of dark days themselves this season, winning only two of their 18 matches despite spending a whopping £100m on signing 12 players last summer.

Portuguese forward Ivan Cavaleiro, who has scored two goals in four appearances against Fulham, says it would be dangerous to underestimate their opponents.

"They can certainly be dangerous because every Premier League side, just like in the Championship, is tough," he said.

"Fulham have a very good side, but unfortunately they haven't managed to win many games yet.

"I think it'll be a great game against a good side and we're expecting it to be tough. I think it's a good fixture for us which we're motivated for, while always respecting our opponents.

"We want to go there and get the win. I think our aim has to be step by step and regardless of who we're facing, we want to win."

Captain Conor Coady echoed those sentiments.

He said: "We don't expect to go there and win. We expect to go and perform and put on a way of playing we want to play. Hopefully we can do that to get the win.

"Fulham are a Premier League team and were fantastic last season.

"We found it hard last season because they played really well against us.

"We need to make sure we're ready for it."

Claudio Ranieri recently replaced Nuno Espirito Santo's good friend Slavisa Jokanovic as Fulham boss but has yet to oversee an upturn in fortunes. Fulham did, though, finally keep their first clean sheet of the season when drawing 0-0 at Newcastle on Saturday.

Cavaleiro said of Ranieri: "I don't know their coach that well, but I do know that he won the league with Leicester in a season when they didn't have particularly well-known players and that was the year after battling against the drop.

"Everything is possible in this league. Take the example of Leicester winning the league, which nobody expected. I think Claudio Ranieri did a great job at Leicester.

"There are very good sides in this league and our aim is to take it step by step, game by game, win matches and go as far as possible."

Wolves will hope Diogo Jota has recovered from a hamstring injury in time to play. Nuno may hand a recall to Morgan Gibbs-White after he was benched against Liverpool.



https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/wolverhampton-wanderers-fc/2018/12/26/wolves-not-underestimating-fulham/

 
Can Fulham maintain the momentum from St. James' Park?

After the pre-Christmas miracle of a clean sheet at Newcastle, Claudio Ranieri was defiant in the face of an ignorant journalist's question. Told that the side who is bottom of the Premier League always goes down, the Fulham boss adamantly insisted 'it is not true'. He is, right, of course, although there are only three examples of this (West Brom in 2004, Sunderland in 2013 and Leicester City in 2014). Perhaps still buzzing from securing a point on Tyneside, Ranieri added: 'We'll be safe at the end, don't worry.'

The Tinkerman has yet to settle on a regular line-up since replacing Slavisa Jokanovic in November, although Saturday's attritional draw with a Newcastle side who failed to register a single shot on target was probably a direct result of Ranieri's switch to a three-man central defence. Tim Ream, Alfie Mawson – who survived a punch on the nose from Sergio Rico in the first half – and Denis Odoi delivered a display of defensive excellence that has been missing all season to provide some much needed resilience at the back. The big question confronting the Fulham coach over his Christmas dinner will be whether to stick with a back three and match up with Wolves, or to add an extra attacker in order to put the visitors under some pressure this lunchtime.

Ranieri's side haven't won since his first game in charge – a dramatic five-goal thriller against Southampton a month ago – and remain rooted to the foot of the table. Despite that, the Italian has pointed to greater positivity in the wake of the draw against the Magpies – revealing that result had helped to lift the training ground. It might be a worry that Fulham's ability to threaten opposition defences has been lacking in recent weeks as the Whites have failed to score in six of their last nine league games. Aleksandar Mitrovic has looked horribly isolated lately, although he will point to the fact that his late shot at Newcastle might have nestled in the far corner had it not struck the arm of Jamaal Lascalles. There is certainly something in Cyrus Christie's suggestion that Fulham need to display more of a killer instinct if they are to stay up.

Teenage winger Ryan Sessegnon has been passed fit again after missing the last two games through a groin strain. He would most naturally return in the left wing-back position in place of Joe Bryan in Fulham's new-look system, although the England under-21 international has looked most at home in the Premier League in a more advanced position. He famously scored the first goal against Wolves at the Cottage last year as the Whites went on that 23-match unbeaten run to the end of the season. Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa will be missing until the New Year at least, which should allow Arsenal loanee Calum Chambers to continue his recent resurgence as a deep-lying midfielder.

Ranieri was raving in his pre-match press conference about Wolves' storming performance against Liverpool last Friday where they were unfortunate to be beaten by Liverpool after giving Jurgen Klopp's league leaders a real scare in the first half. Nuno Esporito Santo's men started Premier League life like a runaway train, even taking the game to Manchester City in another accomplished performance against one of the league's top sides. They came from behind to beat Chelsea and, despite picking up a single point from their last eighteen, will pose a serious threat this afternoon.

Santo's side have continued to play the sort of ambitious and eye-catching football that characterised their romp to the Championship title last season – if anything, kicking on in these more rarefied surroundings. The mighty Willy Boly has been been a rock at the heart of the back three with Conor Coady, converted into a centre half by Santo last season, equally as impressive. Morgan Gibbs-White, a World Cup winner with Steven Sessegnon with the England under 20s last summer, has shown glimpses of his prodigious talent and the unheralded Raul Jimenez has proven a real livewire in the opposition penalty area,

Wolves are likely to be without Diego Jota, who has recently looked like he has found the answers to replicate his devastating skills in the Championship again in the top flight, but Fulham should be equally wary of Adama Traore, whose blistering pace caused such alarm at Middlesbrough last year. Traore posed real problems for the Liverpool defence at Molineux on Friday night and will be licking his lips at the prospect of taking on Fulham's leaky defence.

MY FULHAM XI (3-4-2-1): Rico; Odoi, Mawson, Ream; Christie, R. Sessegnon, Chambers, Seri; Cairney, Schurrle, Mitrovic. Subs: Bettinelli, Le Marchand, McDonald, Johansen, Vietto, Ayite, Kamara.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/12/can-fulham-maintain-the-momentum-from-st-james-park/

That's the side roughly I'd go with jc apart from putting Ayite for schurrle as Ayite gives 500% every game.

 
Leeds United 'want' to sign Fulham player, reasonable chance of January transfer happening

Milliyet's Besiktas journalist Serdar Saridag has reported on the latest transfer developments at Besiktas and he claims Leeds United are interested in Fulham goalkeeper Fabri.

Saridag says Fabri will not return to Besiktas despite recent speculation, as they are looking to put their faith in Liverpool loanee Loric Karius. The Turkish journalist reports Leeds United 'want him', along with La Liga side Rayo Vallecano.

The 31 year old joined Fulham from Besiktas in the summer for a fee believed to be in the region of €7m but he's failed to establish himself at Craven Cottage. The former Besiktas player has made just three Premier League appearances and is no longer involved in Claudio Raneri's match day squads.

Fabri is good at playing out with the ball at his feet, which could make him an ideal signing for Marcelo Bielsa ahead of the next transfer window. A transfer would be relatively easy given his current situation.

22 year old Bailey-Peacock Farrell is the current No.1 at Leeds United but is lacking in experience.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/claim-leeds-united-interested-signing-fulham-summer-signing/

 
Southampton could stave off relegation by signing this 26-year-old Fulham ace to replace this outbound star – Opinion

Southampton could stave off relegation by signing this 26-year-old Fulham ace to replace this outbound star – Opinion

Southampton are 16th in the Premier League, thanks to the win over Arsenal in Ralph Hasenhuttl's first home win as their new manager. However, for Hasenhuttl the problem starts now, as the Saints face a massive fight in their battle to avoid relegation but also the new boss has to fight to keep their stars as the January window approaches.

The Daily Mail has revealed that Fulham star Marcus Bettinelli has been tracked and marked for scouting by Southampton as they look to replace Alex McCarthy.

The current shot-stopper has been marked as well by teams within the Premier League and in all likelihood could move in the winter window.

Bettinelli was former Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic's top choice before he was replaced by Sergio Rico, who arrived on loan from Sevilla.

The 26-year-old was in great form which even led to him being called up by Gareth Southgate, playing deputy to Jordan Pickford. His performances have dipped in the leading months but that hasn't stopped Southampton from scouting the Englishman.

However, what the Saints need is someone who can score more goals for them as well as improving their midfield during the winter window.

Hasenhuttl is going to have a tough time keeping his best players in January unless he can somehow improve Southampton's league position before that happens.

It needs to improve, especially if they are trying to lure in Marcus Bettinelli who at this moment is Gareth Southgate's second choice behind only Jordan Pickford. If the 26-year-old does join, however, Hasenhuttl gets a brilliant replacement if McCarthy does end up leaving in the near future. But what could prove to be a major roadblock in the winter-window is the fact that Sergio Rico is currently on loan at Fulham.

The Sevilla shot-stopper in all likelihood will return to his parent club at the end of the season and that would mean, that Bettinelli could get a chance to become Fulham's number one once again.

The 26-year-old certainly has a choice to make in the near future, because a move could reinvigorate his career and in all likelihood, he'd get another chance to feature in Gareth Southgate's England squad. But then again, that's only if Alex McCarthy leaves.



https://www.mediareferee.com/2018/12/26/southampton-could-stave-off-relegation-by-signing-this-26-year-old-fulham-ace-to-replace-this-outbound-star-opinion/

 
Fulham official says Jokanović sacked early as Southampton 'were also considering' Ranieri

In November, Fulham sacked their manager Slaviša Jokanović and replaced him with Claudio Ranieri.

The Italian has the experience of managing in England as he had spells at Chelsea and Leicester City, including a title winning campaign with the Foxes during the 2015/16 season.

Casper Stylsvig, the Cottagers chief revenue officer, sat down for an interview with Danish newspaper Politiken in London, and explained he doesn't involve himself in the sporting decisions of the club.

Despite that, the former Manchester United head of sales revealed why Fulham decided to move quickly to appoint Ranieri as their new coach, even though they were planning to give their former manager a few more games to change things around.

"Perhaps Slavisa could have got one or two more matches, but the considerations were already upside down with probing of other coaches who were available on the market," he said.

"We heard that Southampton were also considering hiring Ranieri, and then the decision was made. Along the way, there are not many available trainees who you want to trust a Premier League club with, so it was just getting through the decision.

"He has the experience, style and gentlemanly attitude that we would like to associate with Fulham, and even though he was fired at Leicester, it is worth noting the results he delivered with Leicester..."

Earlier in December, Southampton also sacked their manager Mark Hughes and replaced him with Ralph Hasenhüttl and the Saints have enjoyed a good start under their new boss.

Fulham, meanwhile, are still at the bottom of the table, even after Ranieri's appointment. 

It should be seen if he can help the club avoid relegation this season.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-official-says-jokanovic-sacked-early-southampton-also-considering-ranieri/

 
Fulham v Wolves

Preamble

I know why you're here. Enough of the in-laws, one-too-many questions about how the new job is going, I bet you can't look at another mince pie. It's probably a bit too brazen to just stick on Sky Sports in the middle of the living room where your sister is playing that new board game, but a quiet moment upstairs to check the MBM is probably allowed. Welcome.

Luckily, football is here to save us all on Boxing Day. It always is. And a lot like how our Australian counterparts feel about Test cricket, a bit of sport is an excellent excuse to put all that Christmas stuff behind us. Now we can look forward to NYE and Fulham v Wolves.

It should be an excellent game. Last season, in the Championship, Fulham and Wolves each won one game each at home, the former depending on strikes from Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksandar Mitrovic to get a 2-0 win in September 2017. You suspect that if Fulham are to get a similar scoreline today – and avoid relegation this season – those two will play a major part.

Lose today, and Fulham will be exactly half-way through the season with 10 points, which means they will almost certainly still be bottom of the league. A draw today means that they will equal the worst ever Premier League points total for a season – 11, set by Derby County in 2007-08 – so at least that's something. There's something in me here which senses a win for Fulham today, though, and I'm not really sure why.

Wolves have had a fine season, all-in-all. Thirteen points clear of the relegation zone, they have won three of the last four, and there was no shame in last Friday's defeat to Liverpool. A win here would lift them to seventh, a point off Manchester United. Not that that is a barometer of success anymore, but it sounds quite impressive, doesn't it?

Kick-off: 12.30pm GMT

Today's teams!

Ryan Sessegnon is only fit enough for the bench – a groin injury kept him out of the defeat to West Ham and the draw at Newcastle. Claudio Ranieri's only change from that game in the north-east is Cairney out, Kamara in: The Frenchman looks as though he'll play right wing.

Wolves also make one change, as Gibbs-White starts in favour of Ruben Neves who drops to the bench. Gibbs-White is some player, by the way. Excited to see him today.

Fulham: Sergio Rico, Odoi, Mawson, Ream, Christie, Chambers, Seri, Bryan, Kamara, Mitrovic, Schurrle.
Subs: Bettinelli, Ryan Sessegnon, McDonald, Cairney, Ayite, Vietto, Le Marchand.

Wolverhampton: Rui Patricio, Bennett, Coady, Boly, Doherty, Joao Moutinho, Saiss, Jonny, Traore, Jimenez, Gibbs-White.
Subs: Ivan Cavaleiro, Neves, Helder Costa, John Ruddy, Ruben Vinagre, Leo Bonatini, Kilman.

Referee: Andre Marriner (West Midlands)



https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2018/dec/26/fulham-wolves-premier-league-live

Calum Chambers speaks out on his conversations with Unai Emery and why he joined Fulham on loan

The 23-year-old signed a new four year deal before opting to spend the season out on loan

Calum Chambers has spoken out on the conversations he had with Unai Emery in pre-season that led to him joining Fulham on loan.

The 23-year-old has been in the first team during pre-season but having spoken with the new head coach at the Emirates over the summer, he was unsure on how much games he would get once the Premier League campaign started.

Fulham had made him one of their key targets during the summer but it looked like all hopes of a move were extinguished when he signed a new four-year deal in July.

However, a month later Chambers had made the move from north to west, joining the Cottagers on a one-year loan deal, and ahead of his side's game with Wolves on Boxing Day he's revealed it was his desire of wanting to play an entire campaign week-in, week-out that led him to moving to Fulham.

Speaking to the Fulham matchday programme, Chmabers said: "I had a lot of conversations with Unai Emery.

"I trained with Arsenal in pre-season but I needed to play games this term. I was unsure whether that would happen at Arsenal this season, so I wanted to get out and play games to get experience.

"When I went to Middlesbrough on loan, I played a lot at centre-half. Unfortunately, we went down, but it was great for me to go somewhere new and play a lot of games in the Premier League.

"I came back from that a different player and that's what I wanted to happen this season.

"I played a bit at Arsenal towards the end of last season, but I wanted a full campaign of playing week in, week out."



https://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/players/calum-chambers-speaks-out-conversations-15596116

 
Fulham team news vs Wolves: Aboubakar Kamara replaces Tom Cairney in starting XI

Ryan Sessegnon is on the bench having recovered from a groin injury

Aboubakar Kamara has been recalled to the Fulham starting XI for this afternoon's game with Wolves - replacing skipper Tom Cairney in the side.

That's the only change that Claudio Ranieri has made for the Boxing Day tie between two of the sides promoted to the Premier League from the Championship last campaign.

The Italian got the side's first clean sheet of the season thanks to a 0-0 draw at Newcastle United where he introduced wing backs to the team, and it's something that Ranieri has gon with again today.

Denis Odoi, Alfie Mawson and Tim Ream will provide the central base with Joe Bryan and Cyrus Christie provided the width, while Calum Chambers and Jean-Michael Seri continue in a central midfield role.

Kamara comes in for Cairney on the right where his pace will be a key aspect of this starting XI, while Andre Schurrle keeps his place on the other wing.

Up top is Aleksandar Mitrovic who is without a goal since Ranieri's first game in charge of Fulham.

Meanwhile, Ryan Sessegnon returns to the bench having recovered from a groin injury that has kept him out of the previous two games with West Ham and Newcastle.

Fuham: Rico, Odoi, Mawson, Ream, Christie, Chambers, Seri, Bryan, Kamara, Mitrovic, Schürrle

Subs: Bettinelli, Sessegnon, Cairney, Vietto, McDonald, Le Marchand, Agite



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-team-news-vs-wolves-15596208