PREVIEW: RYAN RETURNS FOR FULHAM
Brighton & Hove Albion make their first visit to Craven Cottage in the Premier League on Tuesday night, kick-off 7.45pm, as Chris Hughton's side look to move 15 points clear of Fulham.
Albion's focus returns to the Premier League after Saturday's goalless draw against West Bromwich Albion in the Emirates FA Cup, and the Seagulls will be looking to return to winning ways after successive defeats to Liverpool and Manchester United.
The Cottagers are without a victory since the end of December, having lost four consecutive defeats, three of which came in the league, alongside a 2-1 defeat to Oldham Athletic in the FA Cup.
The Seagulls have taken maximum points from their last three visits to Craven Cottage, and remain unbeaten against the London club in six matches, five of which came in the Sky Bet Championship.
TEAM NEWS
Hughton confirmed that Maty Ryan has returned from the Asian Cup and the goalkeeper is available to play against Fulham on Tuesday evening.
Alireza Jahanbakhsh remains at the Asian Cup ahead of today's semi-final against Japan, therefore will be unavailable, while Jose Izquierdo (knee) and Bernardo (hamstring) remain sidelined through injury.
For Fulham, Alfie Mawson is expected to miss the game, as the central defender continues his recovery from a knee injury. Otherwise, Claudio Ranieri has a fully-fit squad to select from.
FORM
The Seagulls ensured their name would be in the hat for the FA Cup fifth-round draw on Monday evening, but Hughton's men had to settle for a 0-0 draw against the Baggies.
Beforehand, in the Premier League, Albion were narrowly beaten 1-0 and 2-1 by Liverpool and Manchester United respectively, following their 3-1 victory over AFC Bournemouth in the FA Cup third round.
Albion opened 2019 with a 2-2 draw against West Ham United at the London Stadium, with their last victory coming against Everton in the previous match, which saw Jurgen Locadia fire the winning goal.
The Cottagers took the lead against Tottenham Hotspur last time out at Craven Cottage, but second-half strikes from Dele Alli and Harry Winks turned the game on its head and prevented Ranieri's men from taking points.
Defeats to Arsenal and Burnley came either side of a disappointing FA Cup exit to League One side Oldham, but the London club ended 2018 with a 1-0 win against Huddersfield Town.
LAST TIME WE MET
Albion's impressive unbeaten run against Fulham looked in danger after the Cottager's opened up a 2-0 lead following Pascal Gross's penalty miss for the Seagulls in the opening half.
Andre Schurrle opened the scoring before the break, before Aleksander Mitrovic doubled their advantage, but Glenn Murray fired home in the 67th minute to halve the deficit at the Amex.
With just six minutes remaining, Mitrovic was penalised for handling the ball inside the penalty area — Murray stepped up to level the game from 12 yards, and that's how it finished on the south coast.
LAST TIME OUT: ALBION
ALBION 0
WEST BROM 0
Albion line-up: Button; Bruno, Duffy, Burn, Montoya; Bissouma, Stephens (Propper 63), Kayal; Knockaert, Andone (Murray 83), Locadia (Gyokeres 72).
Subs not used: Sanchez (GK), Dunk, Gross, March.
LAST TIME OUT: FULHAM
FULHAM 1
Llorente 17 og
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 2
Alli 51
Winks 90+3
Fulham line-up: Rico; Odoi, Le Marchand, Ream; Christie, Chambers, Seri (Cisse 81), Bryan; Schurrle (Kebano 72), Mitrovic, Babel (Sessegnon 55).
Subs not used: Bettinelli (GK), Cairney, Ayite, Vietto.
PLAYER TO WATCH: Aleksander Mitrovic
The Serbian has led the line for the Cottagers in every single Premier League match this season, finding the back of the net on eight occasions in his 23 appearances.
At just 24 years of age, Mitrovic deceives most with his physical presence in the final third, as he showed against the Seagulls earlier this season, when he put the visitors 2-0 ahead at the Amex Stadium.
The striker has worn the captain's armband in recent matches for the London club, and his qualities in front of goal will be important if Ranieri's side are to pull themselves out of the relegation zone.
https://www.brightonandhovealbion.com/news/2019/january/match-preview-for-fulham-vs-brighton-and-hove-albion-on-29-jan-19/
Club hopeful of getting deal over the line for Fulham player before Thursday
Takvim report Fenerbahce manager Ersun Yanal has made Fulham's Stefan Johansen his first choice option before this week's transfer deadline.
The Turkish club are looking to bring in two midfielders and they've been closely linked with a move for Johansen in recent weeks.
According to Takvim, Fenerbahce are working hard to sign the player as talks with Fulham continue.
Reports at the weekend suggested Fulham's option to extend Johansen's contract by another season is proving to be an issue because the Super Lig club doesn't want to pay a transfer fee to sign the player.
Fenerbahce have also been linked with a move for Brazilian midfielder Raphael Veiga but Takvim say Yanal would prefer to sign Johansen.
It's claimed the Yellow Canaries will make another attempt to sign the Fulham player before the transfer deadline and are hopeful of getting a deal done with the Premier League club.
The midfielder has made 12 Premier League appearances for the London club in this campaign.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-hopeful-getting-deal-line-fulham-player-thursday/
UK weather forecast could see Premier League fixture postponed in midweek
All 20 teams are in action over the course of Tuesday and Wednesday with the Met Office predicting wintry weather
Heavy snow could cause the postponement of a Premier League fixture this week.
All 20 teams are in action over the course of Tuesday and Wednesday with the Met Office warning snow could batter certain parts of the country.
Games on Tuesday in particular could be in danger due to the wintry weather.
Manchester United , Huddersfield , Wolves and Newcastle are all at home with snow forecast to fall either before or during all four games.
Heavy snow is forecast in Huddersfield and Wolverhampton from 5pm while lighter flurries are forecast in Manchester and Newcastle.
Fulham and Arsenal also play at home on Tuesday, but downpours are more likely to fall as rain further down south.
Spurs, Bournemouth , Southampton and Liverpool will host fixtures on Wednesday evening, and snow is forecast early in the day on Merseyside.
Even with modern technology helping pitches cope with freezing conditions and potential snowfall, it is often the areas around the ground which lead to postponements.
Any games which are called off will come as a huge inconvenience to clubs, especially those competing in Europe, with a packed fixture list to battle through between now and the end of the season.
Premier League fixtures
Tuesday January 29
Arsenal vs Cardiff
Fulham vs Brighton
Wolves vs West Ham
Huddersfield vs Everton
Newcastle vs Manchester City
Manchester United vs Burnley
Wednesday January 30
Southampton vs Crystal Palace
Bournemouth vs Chelsea
Liverpool vs Leicester
Tottenham vs Watford
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/uk-weather-forecast-could-see-13917550
"Why not, God willing" – Fulham player tells fan he's open for a transfer to his club
Fulham forward Aboubakar Kamara has reportedly spoken with a Yeni Malatyaspor fan recovering from surgery and revealed he hopes to join the Turkish club before the transfer deadline.
The player has been linked with the Super Lig side in recent weeks, with reports he's on the verge of leaving Fulham.
Trt Spor explains Yeni Malatyaspor president Adil Gevrek arranged a phone call between the fan and the Fulham player, whilst the former recovered in hospital.
Kamara allegedly said to the young fan: "I saw you and it's touched my heart. I hope you will get better."
The player added, when asked if he was going to sign for the Turkish side: "Why not. God willing."
In recent weeks there have been reports Kamara will leave Fulham in this transfer window, with Yeni Malatyaspor named as a potential destination for the player.
There have also been claims the Premier League side are looking to terminate the attacker's contract after an altercation with a Fulham staff member last week.
Kamara's Fulham teammate Neeskens Kebano is another target for the Turkish club.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/hopefully-i-will-join-fulham-player-tells-fan-wants-transfer-club/
Fulham keen on signing Ghanaian player Joseph Attamah from Basaksehir
English Premier League side Fulham FC have sent an improved offer for Istanbul Basaksehir defender Joseph Attamah after the initial offer was turned down by the Turkish cub.
Fulham are keen on landing the Ghanaian before the January window shuts.
Attamah has been impressive for the Turkish side since joining them two seasons ago.
It will be a massive stepping stone for the former Tema Youth player if a deal is reached before the window closes on Thursday.
https://footballghana.com/fulham-keen-on-signing-ghanaian-player-joseph-attamah-from-basaksehir
'I would steer well clear of this one' – West Brom plot deal for controversial forward: Opinion
West Brom are said to be offering a way out of Craven Cottage for ill-disciplined Fulham forward, Aboubakar Kamara according to the Daily Mail.
The 23-year-old has been the subject of a number of incidents recently, and was arrested following an altercation with security at Fulham's training ground.
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This led to Kamara being banned from the training ground, and his future surely lies away from Claudio Ranieri's side for the remainder of the season.
The troublesome 23-year-old also was publicly criticised by Ranieri after be fought of competition from Aleksandr Mitrovic to take a penalty, which he subsequently missed.
So it's been a time to forget for Kamara this season at Fulham, but with West Brom rumoured to be wanting to sign the winger on loan for the remainder of this year's campaign.
It will come as no surprise to see Darren Moore wanting to sign a winger, as he has a void left by Harvey Barnes to fill, after he was recalled by Leicester earlier this month.
But would Kamara be a good signing for West Brom?
We discuss....
Gary Hutchinson:
"This isn't the sort of deal I expected to see the Baggies do.
"His goals record isn't great at all.
"They've got a few options up front too.
"It seems foolish to me."
Louie Chandler:
"I would steer well clear of this one.
"After recent Fulham revelations, Kamara is clearly somebody who has a bit of an attitude problem and you do not need that in a promotion chase.
"Had he shown an impressive level of quality, his attitude could be worth taking on but he simply hasn't."
George Harbey:
"This could be a great signing for West Brom.
"Kamara hasn't really hit the ground running since signing last season, but he's still managed to score a couple of goals in the Premier League this season.
"He's a strong, powerful forward and he could provide real competition for Gayle and Rodriguez."
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/i-would-steer-well-clear-of-this-one-west-brom-plot-deal-for-controversial-forward-opinion/
Report: Fulham eye move for Antonio Valencia
According to reports from The Sun, relegation-threatened Premier League side Fulham are keen to sign Antonio Valencia from Manchester United in January.
The 33-year-0ld, who joined Manchester United in 2009, made more than 300 appearances and won two Premier League titles.
The 93-cap Ecuador international is out of contract in the summer, and United will let him leave on loan, or on a free transfer, before Thursday's transfer deadline.
The report claims that Fulham and Newcastle are showing keen interest in the right-back (started as a winger under Sir Alex Ferguson), who has dropped down the pecking order at the club.
Fulham have really struggled this season despite spending big in the summer transfer window.
The Cottagers find themselves 19th in the Premier League table, and they have the worst defensive record in the league.
Valencia would be a smart signing for them. He is still good enough to make an impact and can bring his wealth of experience to the side.
He has made just five Premier League starts this season, and could be tempted to make a move away from Old Trafford this month.
https://sportslens.com/report-fulham-eye-move-for-antonio-valencia/257814/
Claudio Ranieri transcript: Every word on transfers, Aboubakar Kamara and Brighton
The Fulham manager has been speaking to the press ahead of the game with Brighton on Tuesday
Injury news?
The injuries are the same, Anguissa has come back to training but is not ready yet and Mawson has a check in six weeks. He's not finished for this season, I want him to be ready for the end of the season.
The Kamara situation?
I don't know what happened here, there is a club investigation. I am waiting but if he comes back there is no problem, for the team there is no problem.
How disruptive has that been?
It has no influence, everybody is working well.
Available at the moment?
At this moment no, he's suspended from the club but I am waiting.
More about the incident?
I don't know what happened, we have to wait.
Looking ahead to Brighton
It's crucial for us, they're a good team and very direct. They counter very fast and are very dangerous in set plays, but we have to win. We must make maximum effort to win the match.
Had the weekend off, they haven't
They play with five or six players in the cup, the others have recovered and tomorrow it will be a good battle.
Do you have alternative targets to Cahill?
I don't know if Cahill is on our lists. We have alternatives and I am sure the club will try to do the best for the team.
Looking for a new right back?
We are looking for good opportunities.
Good enough to stay up with current players?
If somebody come in the battle will be very hard, but we are always positive and never give up and we are ready to make the maximum effort.
Can you stay up?
The battle is hard - now we are relegated, we can only improve.
Feel the club has supported you enough to get players in?
I think the recruitment, Tony Khan and everybody are working hard to give us the opportunity for me to choose the best for the team.
Emiliano Sala - worked at Nantes together
I want to understand better what I can do. Emiliano was a fantastic boy, a player who put his head where others don't put their feet. For me it was very sad and imagine his family too
Impact on Nantes?
I watched some video there but what can we do? Nothing, just pray for him.
Strong performance against Tottenham
I think we played a good match but of course when you play against big teams and champions they can invent something and of course we have to be a bit more calm because I remember the last two minutes, we had a free kick and we want to put it in the box, but it was better to slow down the tempo, pass the ball close to the corner, lose the time. When we got the ball we wanted to shoot with Calum from long distance.
We tried to score goals and at the end our keeper has the ball, and they want to restart with Mitrovic, Why? It's finished, just the little things.
But I talk to my players, the match was good and we have to continue in this way but to be very concetrated.
Pleased with things you saw?
I was very pleased with them, I can't say anymore to them because they improve, we fight and scored goals, we had other chances to score again. What can I ask to my players, they gave and give me the maximum.
Can you get out of this situation?
I am a positive man. I know it's a hard job but it was hard when I came. We have to try to fight until the end. In this moment we are relegated, but worse than this is not possible, we can only improve and I believe we improve.
Brighton a good model?
They play very well, simple and they go straight away and are one of the last teams in possession and that means they want to go in counter attack, close the space and try to break the lines and free kicks and corners.
Best side yet?
Our formation is right, I put the first XI and believe they can do a good job. I think it's strong enough. We are ready to look if there is some good opportunity for us the club is open.
More update on Mawson?
We check on his surgery in six weeks and then we can restart. We expect him back for the last five matches at the end of the season.
Aboubakar Kamara?
He's unavailable, there is a club investigation. I don't know what happened but I am here and when everything is done I have no problem to bring him.
The players are very easy, if he comes up then nothing happens for me and his team mates.
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/claudio-ranieri-transcript-every-word-15742435
Report: Fulham make improved bid for Istanbul Basaksehir's Joseph Attamah
Turkish Super Lig leaders Basaksehir are reportedly hoping to keep Joseph Attamah, with Premier League strugglers Fulham interested.
Fulham have returned with an improved bid to sign Istanbul Basaksehir defender Joseph Attamah, according to Football Ghana.
The Mail reported a fortnight ago that the Cottagers had contacted the 24-year-old ahead of a potential move to West London. However, Fulham's offer was understood to have been turned down, with Basaksehir desperate to keep Attamah until the end of the season.
Considering they are three points clear at the top of the Turkish Super Lig table and have a first ever league title in their sights, it is no wonder they are against selling any of their players.
But Football Ghana believe that Fulham have not given up just yet. Claudio Ranieri's relegation threatened side are understood to have returned with an improved bid, though it is not known how much they are willing to pay.
Attamah, who has played four times for his country, is renowned for his ball-playing style, his excellent passing range and his confidence in possession.
In truth, any centre-back would be a welcome addition for a Fulham side who have conceded the most goals in the Premier League this season.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2019/01/28/do-report-fulham-make-improved-bid-for-istanbul-basaksehirs-jose/
Claudio Ranieri delivers Fulham hammer blow over Alfie Mawson injury update
The centre back underwent surgery on his knee earlier this month after a bizarre injury
Alfie Mawson will be out until April at least after undergoing surgery on a knee injury.
The 25-year-old went under knife after injuring his knee in bizarre circumstances during the win over Huddersfield having sustained the injury by changing his boots.
He underwent surgery earlier this month and is due back to have checks on the progress of the injury in six weeks time, but Claudio Ranieri does not expect to have his defender back until the final month of the Premier League campaign.
Mawson arrived at Craven Cottage in the summer in a £15million deal from Swansea City, but had to wait for his debut as he continued his recovery from another knee injury that he suffered earlier the previous season.
He had surgery on that injury in May, something that his manager at the time, Carlos Carvalhal, described as an issue where his knee 'locks'.
So far this season Mawson has played 14 times in all competitions having gained a regular place in the side under Ranieri, but the likeliness is that he won't be back until the Watford game at the very least.
Speaking about the injury, Ranieri said: "Mawson has a check in six weeks. He's not finished for this season, I want him to be ready for the end of the season.
"We check on his surgery in six weeks and then we can restart. We expect him back for the last five matches at the end of the season."
Meanwhile, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has returned to first team training at Fulham after recovering from his injury, although he won't be ready to face Brighton on Tuesday evening, with the game against Crystal Palace the more likely game of his return.
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/claudio-ranieri-delivers-fulham-hammer-15742565
Paul Merson's Premier League predictions
Arsenal vs Cardiff, Bournemouth vs Chelsea and Tottenham vs Watford also feature on a full round of midweek fixtures
Fulham vs Brighton (Tuesday, 7.45pm)
This is a must-win game for Fulham. If they don't then you can almost turn the lights out on their bid to stay in the top-flight.
Brighton are no the best away from home so I can see Claudio Ranieri's side edging this one.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-0 (6/1 with Sky Bet)
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/15205/11620218/paul-mersons-premier-league-predictions
Albion manager Chris Hughton expecting stern test against Claudio Ranieri's Fulham
Chris Hughton has warned Fulham will be hard for Albion to beat at Craven Cottage tomorrow night under Claudio Ranieri after running Tottenham close.
Spurs needed an injury time winner from Harry Winks when next-to-bottom Fulham were last in action.
The Londoners have remained in the relegation zone since Ranieri replaced Slavisa Jokanovic, who was in charge when they drew 2-2 at the Amex earlier in the season.
That is despite splashing out around £100 million since promotion.
Hughton said: "Their form probably hasn't been what they would have liked given who they brought in during the summer, but that's this division and the difficulties of the league.
"They performed well against Tottenham at home and should have probably got more from the game – they had some good chances and they don't look like a side who've had a difficult season.
"They're always difficult games and we'll have to be at good level because of the quality and the options they have in the team. They've showed enough in their last home game to show they can be a real threat.
"They're a different side now in terms of style – the previous manager saw them be quite expansive and grew that way over a couple of years including promotion.
"Claudio has them bit more focused on a structure and keeping things tight in the way they are now – but around that they still have quality players – a bad period can change quickly and that's what they'll be hoping for."
Ranieri says he would happily welcome Aboubakar Kamara (above) back into his squad.
French forward Kamara has been suspended by the Cottagers pending an investigation following an incident at the club's training ground last week.
"I don't know what happened here, now there is a club investigation and I am waiting," said Ranieri.
"But if he comes back, for me there is no problem, for the team there is no problem.
"In this moment he is suspended from the club. I don't know what happened here and I have to wait."
https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/17390290.albion-manager-chris-hughton-expecting-stern-test-against-claudio-ranieris-fulham/
Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri opens door for Aboubakar Kamara to return to the squad
Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri would happily welcome back suspended striker Aboubakar Kamara following the outcome of a club investigation.
Frenchman Kamara has been banned indefinitely by the Cottagers pending internal disciplinary proceedings due to a training ground incident.
Police were called to Motspur Park last week, with the 23-year-old Kamara arrested on suspicion of actual bodily harm and criminal damage following a fight.
Ranieri confirmed the player is unavailable for selection ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash with Brighton but insists he is ready to forgive and forget.
"I don't know what happened here, now there is a club investigation and I am waiting," said Ranieri.
"But if he comes back, for me there is no problem, for the team there is no problem.
"In this moment he is suspended from the club.
"The players are very, very easy. If he comes back, nothing happened for me, and also for his team-mates."
Last week's incident was the latest controversy in which Kamara, who was signed from Amiens in July 2017, has been involved.
Earlier this month, he was also allegedly involved in another fight with his team-mate Aleksandar Mitrovic, which took place during a team yoga session.
Ranieri said he had wanted to "kill" Kamara and accused him of lacking respect in December after the player ignored instructions by taking and missing a penalty in the victory over Huddersfield.
While the Italian coach awaits the verdict on one of his current strikers, he paid a heartfelt tribute to a former one, Emiliano Sala.
Cardiff striker Sala, who went missing last week during a flight from France to Wales, was managed by Ranieri at French club Nantes.
"I want to call Nantes to understand better what I can do," said Ranieri.
"Emiliano was a fantastic boy, a player who put his head where the others don't put their foot, their leg.
"For me it was very, very sad and I imagine for his family, everybody.
"What can we do? Nothing. Just a prayer for him and his family."
Fulham welcome Brighton to Craven Cottage in a perilous position, second from bottom and seven points adrift of safety.
Ranieri, who replaced the sacked Slavisa Jokanovic in November, believes the situation can only improve and admits the Seagulls game is must-win.
"It's crucial for us. We have to win and we have to make the maximum effort," he said.
"The battle is hard, now we are relegated, we can only improve. Worse than this, is not possible.
"I'm a positive man. I know it's a hard job but it was hard when I came, it's harder now. We have to try to fight until the end."
Ranieri has been linked with a move for out-of-favour Chelsea centre-back Gary Cahill as he attempts to improve his porous defence ahead of Thursday's transfer deadline.
He says the Cottagers, who spent heavily last summer, are working hard to recruit reinforcements.
"I don't know if Cahill is on our list, of course we have an alternative and I'm sure the club will try to do the best for the team," said the 67-year-old.
"We are looking, if there will be some good opportunities we are ready."
https://www.itv.com/news/2019-01-28/fulham-manager-claudio-ranieri-opens-door-for-aboubakar-kamara-to-return-to-the-squad/
FAMOUS FULHAM THREE!
Brighton & Albion's past three games at Craven Cottage have ended in dramatic victories over Fulham.
December 2014 – Fulham 0 Albion 2
Managerless and in the drop zone, the 2014/15 season was slowly turning into a living nightmare for the Seagulls. Two days before Christmas, manager Sami Hyypia left the club with Nathan Jones put in temporary charge.
After a superb fightback against Reading from two goals down on Boxing Day it was clear there was a fighting spirit in the Albion squad but few predicted what would happen in London three days later.
Adrian Colunga coolly rolled home from the spot after Elliott Bennett had been felled in the box before Solly March wrapped up the points late on with his first-ever league goal for the Seagulls.
Jones reverted to a coaching role at the club two days later when Chris Hughton was given the full-time manager's job and we all know how that appointment has worked out for Albion.
However, nobody can deny how vital those four points gained under Jones were as the Seagulls avoided the drop to League One and the Welshman had provided a memorable evening in London.
August 2015 – Fulham 1 Albion 2
Hughton's vision was still in its infancy when he took the Seagulls to the Cottage in late summer 2015, but a dramatic victory made it two league wins from two for Albion and the foundations for the eventual promotion push were being laid.
Tom Cairney's sublime curling effort wiped out Sam Baldock's earlier strike for the Seagulls and it seemed the game was destined to end in a 1-1 draw.
Deep into stoppage time though, Kazenga LuaLua was brought down right on the edge of the area and despite the hosts' protests that the winger was felled outside the box, a penalty was awarded.
Just like Colunga had done on Albion's previous visit, Tomer Hemed calmly rolled the ball into the same corner for another memorable victory at Fulham.
January 2017 – Fulham 1 Albion 2
After the heartbreak of missing out on promotion in 2015/16, the Seagulls were determined to grasp their opportunity the following year, and results like the win at Fulham in January defined what the team were all about.
Fulham were undeniably the better side on the day but as superb penalty save from David Stockdale had helped keep the Londoners at bay. Unfortunately, there was nothing Stockdale could do to deny Lucas Piazon in the second-half as Albion's long unbeaten league run looked likely to end at Craven Cottage.
Then there was one of the most famous two minutes of the season. Hemed earned and converted a 74th minute penalty - and you can guess which way the Israeli went.
Then 60 seconds later Albion were in the lead. Lewis Dunk charged through the middle of the park, slipped Anthony Knockaert through on goal only for current Albion keeper David Button to beat the Frenchman's header away.
Dunk though, hadn't stopped his run and happily nodded into the empty net to spark jubilant scenes and as BBC Sussex's Johnny Cantor described, 'Albion in ecstasy in at the cottage'.
Indeed they were and just four months later the Seagulls were promoted to the Premier League, with the afternoon at Fulham one of the standout moments.
https://www.brightonandhovealbion.com/news/2019/january/famous-fulham-three/
'If he comes back, for me there is no problem, for the team there is no problem': Claudio Ranieri hints at possible return for Fulham striker Aboubakar Kamara after his arrest for allegedly attacking security guard
Aboubakar Kamara's arrest was prompted by the prospect of him being fined
He tried to confront Fulham's Alistair Macintosh after failing to report for training
Police were called to Fulham's base in Motspur Park early on Monday evening
Kamara was arrested on suspicion of actual bodily harm after a fight broke out
Fulham have banned him indefinitely from Motspur Park and all club activities
But Claudio Ranieri has said he would happily welcome him back into his squad
Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri says he would happily welcome Aboubakar Kamara back into his squad.
French forward Kamara has been suspended by the Cottagers pending an investigation following an incident at the club's training ground.
Kamara is initially said to have failed to turn up to training after being told to join the Cottagers' academy group, triggering a potential club fine. Sportsmail understands that Kamara became aware of Fulham's intention to fine him, prompting his visit to the training ground late on Monday afternoon.
As MailOnline exclusively revealed last Wednesday, Kamara was arrested by Metropolitan Police officers after he became embroiled in a fight with an on-site security guard as he tried to confront chief executive Alistair Macintosh at the training facility.
But despite the fiasco, Ranieri hinted on Monday that he has not closed to door on the 23-year-old.
'I don't know what happened here, now there is a club investigation and I am waiting,' said Ranieri.
'But if he comes back, for me there is no problem, for the team there is no problem.
'In this moment he is suspended from the club. I don't know what happened here and I have to wait.'
Despite Ranieri's words, he is believes to have grown increasingly exasperated by Kamara's disruptive behaviour in recent weeks.
The striker's on-pitch spat with Aleksandar Mitrovic over a penalty in the win against Huddersfield in December, in which Kamara wrestled the ball from his team-mate to take a spot-kick which he subsequently missed, infuriated Ranieri.
Sportsmail understands Ranieri was far from impressed with Kamara's half-hearted attempts at apologising to the squad after the Italian made clear his role in the penalty controversy was unacceptable.
Sources claim Kamara has also been involved in a number of heated disagreements with team-mates, including Mitrovic and Andre Schurrle, during training.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6640757/Claudio-Ranieri-hints-possible-Fulham-return-Aboubakar-Kamara.html
Claudio Ranieri insists Fulham 'have to win' against Brighton
The Fulham manager unsure whether Gary Cahill will join the club this month from Chelsea
Claudio Ranieri insists Fulham "have to win" against Brighton on Tuesday as his side continues to battle relegation.
Fulham head into the match at Craven Cottage looking for their first win of 2019, having won just once in their previous 10 games in the Premier League.
Brighton are currently 13th in the table - six places above Fulham - and Ranieri believes his side will have to work as hard as possible to secure all three points.
The Italian said: "Brighton are playing very well. It's very simple - they want to counter-attack, close the space, break the lines, and win free-kicks and corners.
"Tomorrow is crucial for us. Brighton is a good team and very direct, but we have to win. We must give our maximum effort to win.
"They played with just five or six [first team regular] players in the cup and they will have recovered very well. Tomorrow will be a very good battle."
Fulham have managed just three wins and 14 points in the league so far this season, now finding themselves seven points behind Newcastle in 17th place.
A narrow loss to Tottenham in their last game plunged Fulham further into difficulty, but Ranieri insists his side can take encouragement from that defeat moving forward.
"I think we played a good match but when you play against champions they can create something," he added.
"I talked to my players and said the match was good. We have to continue this way, but concentrate until the end.
"We are always positive and will never give up. We are ready to give our maximum effort. The battle is hard but we can only improve."
Three days remain until the end of the transfer window and Fulham have still only signed one player so far - Ryan Babel from Besiktas.
Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has been linked with a move to Craven Cottage, but Ranieri admitted he's unsure whether the England international will join this month.
He said: "I don't know if Cahill is on our lists. We have alternatives and I am sure the club will try to do the best for the team.
"We are looking for some good opportunities and we will be ready."
French striker Aboubakar Kamara was suspended by Fulham last week after being arrested for alleged bodily harm and criminal damage, and he has since been banned indefinitely from the training ground.
He is now the subject of a club investigation, but Ranieri was quick to dismiss suggestions the squad have been disrupted by the incident.
"I don't know what happened here, we have to wait," the 67-year-old said.
"There's no influence. Everybody is working well and it's no problem. In this moment he's not available. He's suspended from the club and now we are waiting."
Ranieri confirmed that midfielder André-Frank Zambo Anguissa has been training with the squad but is not yet ready for first-team action. Defender Alfie Mawson will have a check on his knee injury in six weeks, but will not miss the rest of the season.
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11620419/claudio-ranieri-insists-fulham-have-to-win-against-brighton
Fulham could make Dann swoop
Fulham could swoop for Crystal Palace defender Scott Dann this week.
According to claims from Bleacher Report's Dean Jones via Twitter, a move to Craven Cottage is 'possible' for the experienced centre-back.
Dann has spent the majority of the season on the sidelines after sustaining a long-term injury against Manchester City on the final day of 2017.
However, he has recently returned to the fold and has played a part in Roy Hodgson's plans.
Nevertheless, the centre-back has plenty of competition for his place in the starting line-up and could yet be on the move in the final days of the January transfer window.
Claudio Ranieri's Fulham side have struggled in the Premier League this season and may be keen to recruit proven quality in the defensive areas as they aim to keep their heads above water.
https://readcrystalpalace.com/2019/01/28/fulham-could-make-dann-swoop/
Team NewsClaudio Ranieri has revealed that André-Frank Zambo Anguissa is closing in on a return to action, although Alfie Mawson is set for an extended spell out.
(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/18_19_player_action_shots/rexfeatures_10043049cq.jpg?w=300&h=400)
Mawson was withdrawn at half-time of our 1-0 win over Huddersfield Town at the end of December, but Ranieri expects to have the centre-back available for the closing fixtures of the campaign.
"Anguissa has come back training with the First Team, but he's not ready yet," Ranieri stated in Monday's press conference. "And Mawson will have a check in six weeks. He's not finished for the season, I wait for him to be ready at the end of the season.
"We'll check on his surgery in six weeks. Then we can restart with him for the last month. The last five matches I think he'll be ready."
Another who has been out of the side in recent weeks is Aboubakar Kamara, and when asked if he's in contention for the Brighton & Hove Albion fixture, Ranieri replied: "In this moment, no. He's suspended from the club, and we are waiting, I am waiting.
"I don't know what's happened here. Now there is a club investigation and I am waiting, but if he comes back it's no problem for me. For the team there is no problem.
"It's had no influence [on team morale]. Everybody is working well, there's no problem."
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/january/28/team-news
Report: Fulham make £7m bid for Benfica's Andre Almeida
Andre Almeida's seven Primeira Liga assists for Benfica this season have seen him linked with Premier League strugglers Fulham.
Fulham's pursuit of a new right-back has taken them to Benfica's Andre Almeida, according to O Jogo.
Cottagers manager Claudio Ranieri has made no secret of the need for a new right-sided defender this month, having confirmed that he does not see Manchester United loanee Timothy Fosu-Mensah as a key part of his plans, as reported by Sky Sports.
And O Jogo claims that Fulham have now made a £7 million bid for Almeida at the request of Ranieri himself.
It is understood that the West London outfit will not enter negotiations with Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira.
28-year-old Almeida has been plying his trade at the Estadio da Luz ever since joining from Belenenses in 2011, winning four Primeira Liga titles.
And the Portugal international has come on leaps and bounds in the last two seasons, contributing 13 assists in his 49 league appearances for Benfica since the start of the 2017/18 campaign.
It remains to be seen whether £7 million is enough to convince The Eagles to cash in, however, with the Iberian giants frequently demanding huge fees for their key men.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2019/01/28/do-report-fulham-make-7m-bid-for-benficas-andre-almeida/
Fulham v Brighton and Hove AlbionTUE 29 Jan 2019 Premier League
Venue: Craven Cottage(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/624/cpsprodpb/C426/production/_105341205_gettyimages-1069825396.jpg)
Claudio Ranieri's Fulham have lost all four league and cup matches in 2019
TEAM NEWSFulham have no fresh injury concerns but Aboubakar Kamara remains suspended indefinitely by the club following an incident at the training ground.Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has returned to training after injury but will not feature on Tuesday.
Brighton's first-choice goalkeeper Mat Ryan is available for the first time since Boxing Day after returning from the Asian Cup.
Defender Leon Balogun has overcome the illness that ruled him out on Saturday.
MOTD COMMENTATOR'S NOTES@Mark_Scott_: It has been a tough 2019 for Fulham, with their four straight defeats this month including an FA Cup exit to Oldham and a painful late loss against Tottenham last time out.
Claudio Ranieri's comments about the Cottagers "continuing to fight" after the Spurs game were then taken a little too literally by Aboubakar Kamara.
Brighton may be well clear of danger but they've fared no better than Fulham over the past eight league games - although their last two league fixtures were narrow defeats to Liverpool and Manchester United.
The Seagulls' away form certainly offers a bit of cheer for Fulham though, going into what feels like a must-win game for them.
VIEW FROM THE DUGOUTFulham manager Claudio Ranieri: "Tomorrow is crucial for us. We have to win and we have to make the maximum effort to win the match.
"Look, I am a positive man. I know it's a hard job, but it was hard when I came and it's hard now.
"We have to try to fight until the end. In this moment, we are relegated [with our position in the table], but it's not possible to get worse than this. We can only improve. And I believe we will improve."
Brighton & Hove Albion manager Chris Hughton: "What I've seen in Fulham are some good displays. They don't look like a team that has had a difficult season.
"We'll have to play at a good level because they have quality in the side, particularly offensively."
MATCH FACTSHead-to-head Fulham are winless in the past six meetings, ending a five-match losing streak against Brighton with a 2-2 draw in September's reverse fixture.
Brighton have won three successive league games at Craven Cottage, scoring twice each time.
Fulham Fulham have their worst record after 23 matches of a league season: W3, D5, L15.
They have lost all four competitive matches in 2019, including three successive Premier League defeats. The last two of those came despite opening the scoring.
The Cottagers have dropped 10 points in their 11 league matches under Claudio Ranieri, more than any other side during the same period.
Fulham have conceded 51 goals, the worst record in Europe's five major leagues this season.
Ranieri has only won seven of his 36 Premier League games since guiding Leicester to the title in 2015-16 (D9, L20). Among managers who have taken charge of as many Premier League matches during that time, only David Wagner (18%) has a worse win percentage than Ranieri's 19%.
Aleksandar Mitrovic has scored 38% of Fulham's Premier League goals this season, the highest ratio of any player for any side. However, the Serbian has scored just once in his last 10 league appearances.
Brighton & Hove Albion The Seagulls could equal the club record of three consecutive Premier League defeats.
They have lost a Premier League-high 20 of their 31 away games since the start of last season.
Brighton and opponents Fulham have both only earned five points from their past eight league fixtures.
Their only clean sheet in the past 13 league matches came in a 1-0 home win against Everton in December.
Chris Hughton is winless in all five Premier League matches as a manager against Fulham (D3, L2). The only one of those fixtures at Craven Cottage was Norwich City's 5-0 defeat in August 2012.
Glenn Murray has scored five goals in his past four league appearances against Fulham, although they all came in home games. He has gone eight games without a Premier League goal, his worst run in the division for Brighton.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/46955255
Cottage Talk: View Of The Opposition - Brighton & Hove Albion
Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.
This episode is an interview with Simon Cox. He is a Brighton & Hove Albion supporter, so he was on the show to give the opposition perspective on this upcoming match. This show is our preview episode for this match.
You can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2019/1/28/18200767/cottage-talk-view-of-the-opposition-brighton-hove-albion
What Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri has said amid reported interest in Gary Cahill and Scott Dann
Fulham have three days to bring in defensive recruits to aid their Premier League survival chances
The transfer window shuts in just three days and so far Fulham have made only the one signing, landing Ryan Babel from Besiktas.
Defence has been an area of concern and one the club have wanted to strengthen in all January, but so far defensive targets have eluded them.
Gary Cahill was a player that Fulham wanted to bring in but a deal has broken down with just days remaining in the window, while Scott Dann of Crystal Palace is the latest to be linked with a move to Craven Cottage.
The club's recruitment team, led by Tony Khan, have done away with their under-28 policy as they target experienced players to try and help them get out of the relegation zone in the Premier League - something manager Claudio Ranieri has been keen for them to target.
He's complained about the lack of experience in his team in recent weeks, most notably after the 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur last week where he blamed that experience for dropping a point.
The window shuts on January 31 and Fulham have work to do if they are going to get anyone in, here's everything Ranieri has said on transfers in his press conference this week.
"I don't know if Cahill is on our lists," he said, "we have alternatives and I am sure the club will try to do the best for the team.
"We are looking for good opportunities.
"If somebody comes in the battle will be very hard, but we are always positive and never give up and we are ready to make the maximum effort.
"I think the recruitment, Tony Khan and everybody are working hard to give us the opportunity for me to choose the best for the team."
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/what-fulham-boss-claudio-ranieri-15744202
Crystal Palace back-up Scott Dann is a realistic Cahill alternative for Fulham
The Sun has linked Fulham with a swoop for Crystal Palace centre-half Scott Dann, with the Eagles rumoured to be eyeing a move for Gary Cahill.
Although earlier reports had claimed Fulham were admirers of Cahill, a deal for Dann would prove a far more realistic option for the Whites.
The proposed move for the Chelsea defender had stalled over the length of the deal, in addition to Cahill's lack of desire to join a Fulham side that is battling the drop.
With Dann, the Whites would retain the services of an experienced defender who will have no qualms sacrificing his all for the cause and getting stuck in with a relegation dogfight.
The Palace defender has seen himself fall down the pecking order at Selhurst Park after his long-term injury, with the pairing of Mamadou Sakho and James Tomkins clearly first choice in Roy Hodgson's eyes.
Like Cahill, Dann has been frozen out of the Premier League this campaign, but the Eagles centre-half could slot into the Fulham backline with more ease than the former Blues captain.
Rather than plotting a move for an unmotivated Gary Cahill, Fulham would do well to target Palace's Scott Dann and enlist a willing defensive stalwart.
https://tbrfootball.com/crystal-palace-back-up-scott-dann-is-a-realistic-cahill-alternative-for-fulham/
Premier League predictions: Lawro v Yizzy
Liverpool resume their title challenge with a home game against Leicester on Wednesday night, but can the Premier League leaders maintain their unbeaten record at Anfield this season?
BBC Sport's football expert Mark Lawrenson says: "With 15 games to go, I get the feeling Reds boss Jurgen Klopp sees his side's run-in as the last of the three laps of their title race.
"His message to his players is probably that they just need to keep doing what they have been doing so far this season and, if they do that against Leicester, they will beat them."
Lawro is making predictions for all 380 top-flight matches this season, against a variety of guests.
This week he is up against grime star Yizzy, who has a new single, the follow-up to 'Keep Chasing', coming out in February.
The 19-year-old MC is from south London and also has some Welsh roots but grew up an Arsenal fan thanks to the 'Invincibles' title-winning team of 2003-04.
"Sadly the current Gunners side cannot hold a candle to that team," Yizzy told BBC Sport. "The closest players we have got to that right now are Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette.
"That's not to say they are on the same level as Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry but, player-wise, the nearest we have to that kind of standard are our strikers because, if I am honest, our defence is a shambles.
"We've only recently discovered a ball-winning midfielder in the form of Lucas Torreira who, for me, is like a hungry, young Patrick Vieira who can hassle people and also distribute it, which is great to see.
"But in terms of wingers, I don't think we will see the likes of Freddie Ljungberg, Robert Pires or Jose Antonio Reyes again.
"We may play Henrikh Mkhitaryan on the right sometimes, but he's not a winger. So, right through the side there is a lot of work to be done.
"Hopefully that will change. Obviously it is very early to judge Unai Emery as a manager but he has already shown a lot more willingness to strengthen different areas of the team than Arsene Wenger did in the past few years. We have got some hope now."
LAWRO'S PREDICTIONS
Fulham v Brighton
Fulham were knocked out of the FA Cup in the third round by Oldham, so they haven't played since they lost late on to Tottenham.
The Cottagers are on a run of three league defeats, which has left them seven points adrift of safety, and they are running out of time to get out of trouble.
There is an argument that Claudio Ranieri has improved them since taking charge at the start of December - despite Ryan Babel being their only signing so far this month - but he has not improved them enough to win some games.
Therein lies the problem, and it is hard to see things changing much at this stage of the transfer window.
Brighton, who drew with West Brom in the FA Cup on Saturday, have lost their last two league games against Liverpool and Manchester United.
But the Seagulls are still sitting pretty comfortably in mid-table and I don't see them getting dragged into the relegation scrap.
They probably only need another eight points to stay up, with the way the league is shaping up, and I think they will get one of them on Tuesday.
Lawro's prediction: 1-1
Yizzy's prediction: 1-1
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47028482
Fulham v Brighton: Kamara banned, Seagulls duo available
Fulham have no fresh injury concerns but will be without suspended forward Aboubakar Kamara for the Premier League game with Brighton.
Frenchman Kamara has been banned indefinitely by the club and is the subject of an internal investigation following an incident at the Cottagers' training ground.
Midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has returned to training after injury but will not feature against the Seagulls, while centre-back Alfie Mawson (knee) also remains out.
Provisional squad: Rico, Bettinelli, Fabri, Fosu-Mensah, Le Marchand, Christie, Odoi, Chambers, Ream, Ayite, Bryan, Seri, Cisse, Johansen, De La Torre, McDonald, Kebano, R Sessegnon, Cairney, S Sessegnon, Schurrle, Vietto, Mitrovic, Babel.
Brighton will have first-choice goalkeeper Mat Ryan and defender Leon Balogun available for selection.
Australia international Ryan has not played since Boxing Day due to his participation in the Asian Cup with his country, while centre-back Balogun missed Saturday's FA Cup draw with West Brom because of illness.
Iran winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh is still at the Asian Cup ahead of Monday's semi-final against Japan. Jose Izquierdo (knee) and Bernardo (hamstring) also remain unavailable.
Provisional squad: Ryan, Button, Bruno, Montoya, Bong, Dunk, Duffy, Burn, Balogun, Stephens, Kayal, Bissouma, Propper, March, Gross, Knockaert, Locadia, Gyokeres, Andone, Murray.
http://londonfootballnews.co.uk/fulham/fulham-v-brighton-kamara-banned-seagulls-duo-available/
Ranieri must somehow pull off this quality signing to save Fulham from the dreadful jaws of relegation
Ibrahim Amadou signing will plug multiple holes in Fulham's leaky defence
Football Espana have recently published a report which claims that Sevilla central midfielder Ibrahim Amadou is being linked with a possible move to Premier League strugglers Fulham.
Fulham went on a rather enviable shopping spree prior to the start of this season. With some brilliant purchases like Andre Schurrle, Jean Michael Seri and even Luciano Vietto from Atletico Madrid, they also signed Aleksandar Mitrovic on a permanent basis.
They received the kind of funding most clubs could only dream of but with more than half the season already behind us, Fulham find themselves in a very tough situation and are left with no option but to shell out more money to ensure they're able to maintain their Premier League status.
With 23 games gone, Fulham have got just 14 points on the board and find themselves in a troublesome 19th place. With only Huddersfield doing worse than them, there are serious issues that Claudio Ranieri needs to address before the end of the transfer window.
The defending by this side has been appalling at times and that has been seen in the fact that they have conceded 51 goals already this season – this results in an average of more than 2 goals conceded per match, which can never be good in the most competitive league in the world.
Currently 7 points from getting out of the dreaded relegation zone, their fixture list doesn't make it easier for them either. Ranieri must go for a defensive midfielder who can come in and guard a leaky back-line.
Reports are suggesting that former Lille player Ibrahim Amadou could be the player to come in and do the job. Having captained the Ligue 1 side during his three seasons in France, the Frenchman made the move to Sevilla in the summer of 2018.
But since his move at the start of the season, he has made just 8 appearances, with six of those coming off the bench. He has really struggled to nail down a starting spot and remains on the fringes of the squad.
With Fulham interested, it would be smart for him to move to England as his strength and physical style of play would suit Fulham. He can sit in front of the two centre-halves and dictate the play with quick passing and subtle dribbles.
His ability to play exquisite defence-splitting long passes is trumped only by his immense defensive work rate. He is also capable of playing as a centre-half, which will also be a massive asset to a leaky Fulham side. Ranieri must pull off this signing at any cost as their whole season is hanging in the balance.
https://soccersouls.com/2019/01/29/ranieri-must-somehow-pull-off-this-quality-signing-to-save-fulham-from-the-dreadful-jaws-of-relegation/
Time to get Seri-ous! Fulham v Brighton – Preview.
Fulham welcome Chris Hughton's Brighton and Hove Albion to Craven Cottage tomorrow night in what is now unmistakably a must-win game.
Despite the desolation of the last-gasp defeat to Tottenham, there would have been plenty of positives for Claudio Ranieri to take from a battling performance. The Whites created a number of good chances in the first half and certainly should have been in front by more than a single goal at the break. Eyebrows were raised when Fulham brought in Ryan Babel, a 32 year-old winger with shocking red hair, during the transfer window but, on the basis of his powerful display against Spurs, it was clear that the former Liverpool winger offers something different. Babel showed determination, fight, an ability to link up with Aleksandar Mitrovic, and all that was missing was a deserved debut goal.
Results certainly haven't gone for Ranieri since the new year. Now's the time for Fulham to be brave, play with some spirit and treat our remaining games like Cup finals. Draws at home won't be good enough any more – especially when you look at the fixtures that our relegation rivals have in the weeks ahead. Brighton are brilliantly drilled by Hughton and their continued survival in the top flight is a story in itself. Albion will be tough to breakdown but pose a real threat on the break as well as set pieces, with their tall centre halves Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy likely to cause problems. There is also the ex-Fulham contingent with David Button, who has been deputising for Matty Ryan in recent weeks, recently joined by Dan Burn.
Ranieri's team selections have been baffling for a while. I hope that he can reintroduce Ryan Sessegnon, who seems to have been treated a little shabbily in the past few weeks, especially with some of the criticism that has come the teenager's way. Sessegnon is a prodigious talent who is still learning his way at the highest level, but his quality has been evident in the way he scored a vital goal against Wolves and then set up that last-gasp winner for Mitrovic against Huddersfield. I feel he offers far more than Andre Schurrle at the moment – and the pace of him and Ryan Babel could make Fulham's front three a bit more formidable.
If Ranieri was being bold, he could also sacrifice a centre back to play both Jean-Michael Seri and Tom Cairney in front of Calum Chambers. The five at the back might have helped stabilise things defensively for a while, but it seems as though teams have been able to figure out the gameplan. Fulham need to score goals and take the game to the opposition, particularly at home. We have only scored more than goal under Ranieri once – and that was against Southampton, back in his first game in charge. The combination of Seri and Cairney have the guile to unlock even the tightest of defences and, if Sessegnon and Babel are raiding down the flanks, then Seri will have the runners that his passing game thrives upon.
The margin for error is now very slender: if we don't pick up three points against Brighton tomorrow night, I fear the fat lady might be clearing her throat.
My match prediction: Fulham 2-1 Brighton!
COYW!
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/01/time-to-get-seri-ous-fulham-v-brighton-preview/
West Brom signing this Norwegian star is an absolute no-brainer – would replace the ageing Barry
Why Stefan Johansen could be the perfect candidate to replace Gareth Barry
According to reports from Birmingham Live, Fulham midfield outcast Stefan Johansen is being watched carefully by Darren Moore's West Bromwich Albion side who are in the market for a box-to-box midfielder who can control the pace of a game.
West Brom have had a fantastic season in front of goal but have let themselves down on many occasions by not finishing games off. Even with some of the players enjoying what is probably the form of their lives, there is a lot of work to do before this talented West Brom side reaches full potential.
Currently at 4th place, Moore's men will be eager to break past Sheffield United and Norwich City to try and beat Leeds United to the title but with 7 points separating them from the top of the table, this isn't going to be a cake-walk at all.
For them to even think about top-spot, they will have to consistently win games – something they haven't been able to do so far this season. Even with the West Brom strikers seemingly in top form, the results haven't quite shown them in the best light.
With Dwight Gayle and Jay Rodriguez both fighting it out with 14 goals each, it's the kind of striker situation that most clubs can only dream of but the recent loss of Harvey Barnes to a loan recall has obviously affected this West Brom side.
Also, Gareth Barry and Chris Brunt are both crucial members of their starting XI, which is a cause for concern as well. With Barry at 37 and Brunt at 34, Moore has to think about replacing the veterans with an experienced professional.
As suggested by Birmingham Live, Fulham's Stefan Johansen could be the perfect guy for the job and West Brom are keen on bringing the Norwegian to the Hawthorns.
Having made a name for himself at Strømsgodset in Norway, he was signed by Celtic in 2014 before eventually joining Fulham in the summer of 2016. He has made just 12 appearances this campaign. A box-to-box midfielder, his passing range and quality are his main assets.
Capable of acting as the link between the defence and the attack, his long balls and through passes are always top-notch. He is also an excellent finisher in and around the box.
His link-up play is excellent and will suit Moore's style of play while he can be the perfect replacement for the ageing Barry. This move is a no-brainer for West Brom and they must pull this off at the earliest.
https://soccersouls.com/2019/01/29/west-brom-signing-this-norwegian-star-is-an-absolute-no-brainer-would-replace-the-ageing-barry/
Fulham signing this out-of-contract Premier League veteran would be a season-changing move
Why Fulham need to bring in the experienced Antonio Valencia
The Daily Mail has revealed that Fulham are targeting out-of-contract Manchester United star Antonio Valencia. The 33-year-old has less than six months left on his current deal with the Red Devils but has already been told that he can leave. This has been brought to the attention of a few Premier League sides who look for an affordable defensive option, which the Ecuadorian brings to the table.
Valencia, who joined nearly ten years ago from Wigan Athletic has been a mainstay in Manchester United's team-sheet. He started as a right-winger before transforming into a right-back. During the course of that, the 33-year-old has made 338 appearances for the club, with 324 of those coming in the Premier League. This kind of experience cannot be bough, which is exactly why Fulham need to out-do the Magpies to sign the Ecuadorian.
With Antonio Valencia allowed to leave, there is a great chance that a few more sides enter the race as they all look towards surviving the Premier League. But for Fulham, more than any other side, they need the experienced right-back on their books, because if for nothing else, he can provide them with a cut-rate defensive option.
On a larger scale, Valencia's experience and ability will be crucial to Claudio Ranieri as the season becomes tougher. With Fulham sitting in the relegation zone, eight points from safety. They need reinforcements and having signed Ryan Babel, the former Leicester City boss believes that either Danny Simpson (Daily Mail) or Antonio Valencia are his defensive options now in January.
Both are experienced Premier League stars and have both won at least one Premier League title during the course of their career. However, while Simpson will be a long-term option, Valencia's experience and leadership will be crucial for Fulham to survive this season, which is something they need to make sure they will do.
Otherwise spending over the limit in the summer would make no sense for Fulham. If they do get relegated, then in all likelihood, they'll lose at least half of their players they brought in.
For them, time will only get tougher from here on in, and adding someone as experienced as Antonio Valencia will not hurt them, as Ryan Babel has proved so far.
https://www.mediareferee.com/2019/01/29/fulham-signing-this-out-of-contract-premier-league-veteran-would-be-a-season-changing-move/
From defence to midfield: The rise of Calum Chambers
Sunday 11th November 2018. A daunting task faced the Whites. A trip to Anfield. Jurgen Klopp's title hopefuls against relegation contenders.
When the team was released at 11am, most of the travelling Fulham faithful were baffled by the line-up. One name stuck out on the list. Calum Chambers. Was Slaviša really playing the on loan Arsenal defender as a central midfielder? Does Slaviša really want to keep his job? Has he given up completely? The feeling of doom and gloom around the concourse at Anfield was all-consuming. 'We're going to lose, 100%, mate'. Of course, Fulham did lose as it turned out. But it could have been very different.
We all knew what happened that day, but Chambers starred in his new role. He provided some ballast in front of a shaky defence, offering grit, determination and he definitely wasn't afraid to get stuck in. It was a masterclass in a ball-winning role that showed the Fulham fans something they hadn't seen before during Chambers' unconvincing start to his loan spell at Craven Chambers. The one-time England international hadn't pulled up any trees at centre back and was utterly dreadful when tried at right back in the desperate defeat to Cardiff.
Having arrived amidst much fanfare as Fulham bought in a host of players towards the end of the summer transfer window, Chambers couldn't establish himself at his new club. He was rejuvenated in a new role, however, although the battling performance at Anfield wasn't enough to save Slavisa Jokanovic's job. Replacing the Serb was a man who knew all about building from the back: a far more defensive coach in Claudio Ranieri. Chambers would have been forgiven for wondering whether he would have to prove himself all over again.
As it turned out, Chambers have been one of the mainstays of Ranieri's side, retaining his defensive midfield role even after the Italian switched to a five-man defence. He has been unfortunate not to open his goalscoring account for the Whites, forcing a splendid save out of Kasper Schmeichel and going close with a number of efforts in the SW6 derby at Chelsea. It is workmanlike displays in front of the defence that have caught the eye – Chambers simply never stops running Nobody would have predicted that the Arsenal would become a regular in midfield, especially after Fulham decided to supplement their promotion-winning quartet with the likes of Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Jean-Michael Seri. Anguissa has had to play second-fiddle to Chambers, who must surely be playing some of the best football of his career.
His energy, bravery and a desire to work his socks off for the cause have quickly won over the Fulham faithful. Chambers covered almost every blade of grass in an outstanding display against Tottenham last weekend, where the Whites deserved more than that gut-wrenching last-gasp defeat. In the unlikely event that the Whites manage to pull off another great escape, then Chambers would surely have to be one of the Khans' first signings. Even if Ranieri's side drop through the relegation trap door, Chambers' attitude and determination won't be forgotten. His tireless running has shown every player who finds themselves on the sidelines how to get back into the action – there's no substitute for hard work.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/01/from-defence-to-midfield-the-rise-of-calum-chambers/
Albion keeper David Button to miss out on poignant Fulham return
DAVID BUTTON is poised to miss out on a poignant return to Fulham – after proving he is up to the job in the Premier League.
Regular No.1 Mathew Ryan is expected to be back in goal for Albion at Craven Cottage tonight for the first time since Boxing Day following his return from Asian Cup duty for Australia.
Button, who lost his Championship place with promoted Fulham midway through last season, has been an able deputy in his first taste of top flight responsibility in the absence of Ryan.
Boss Chris Hughton told The Argus: "I was always confident David would do well for us. If you are worried that Maty is going to be away for that period of time and you don't know what you've got then you've got sleepless nights.
"The reason you bring somebody in you feel can do a good job is to give that reassurance. He's done every bit as well as I thought he would."
Ryan returned on Saturday after Australia's exit from the quarter-finals in the United Arab Emirates against the host nation.
He trained with goalkeeping coach Ben Roberts on Sunday and with the full squad yesterday and Hughton said: "He's fine. He's used to travelling."
Gaetan Bong returns at left-back, with Bernardo still sidelined by hamstring trouble.
Bong was deliberately excluded from Saturday's home FA Cup draw against West Brom and Martin Montoya switched to left-back due to Bernardo's injury situation.
Hughton expects Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy to have their hands full again with Aleksandar Mitrovic, Fulham's main hope of beating the drop.
Albion were interested in the Serbian, who scored in the 2-2 draw at the Amex in September, before his move from Newcastle to the banks of the River Thames.
Hughton said: "Not just them, I think he gives most centre-half pairings a difficult day. That's the way he plays. He's a very physical player, a very good player.
"He's a big player for them and we know what his strengths are. If we felt he was a tough one in the home game, we have been warned and are prepared for it."
https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/17391376.albion-keeper-david-button-to-miss-out-on-poignant-fulham-return/
Valencia keen on Fulham teenager Tyrese Francois
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Tyrese Francois is wanted by Spanish side Valencia
Fulham teenager Tyrese Francois is the latest Premier League academy player to attract interest from overseas - with Valencia hoping to sign him on a free this summer, according to Sky sources.
The 18-year-old midfielder is likely to be offered a new contract by Fulham when his current two-year deal ends in June.
Valencia are confident of enticing the youngster to La Liga, but will face competition from British clubs.
Crystal Palace and Celtic are also aware of Francois, who has been operating in numerous positions across midfield for Fulham's Premier League 2 side.
Francois moved to England from Australia with his family six years ago and he now holds dual-nationality.
He joined Fulham in 2017 and was involved with the first team squad for last summer's pre-season programme in Spain.
Meanwhile, his younger brother Marlee, 16, is close to joining Bristol City.
The Sky Bet Championship club have been alerted to the older sibling's situation and could offer him a quicker route to first-team football.
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11621129/valencia-keen-on-fulham-teenager-tyrese-francois
Club waiting on final decision from Fulham after agreeing terms with player
Hurriyet report Turkish club Yeni Malatyaspor are waiting for an answer from Fulham with regards to the transfer of Aboubakar Kamara.
In recent weeks Kamara has been strongly linked with a move to the Turkish club but his recent altercation with a Fulham staff member has complicated things.
According to Hurriyet, Malatyaspor president Adil Gevrik is still in London holding talks with Fulham and the Premier League side are looking to loan Kamara until the end of the season.
However, the London side are hoping to offload him to a Championship club at this stage rather than the Super Lig side.
It's claimed Yeni Malatyaspor have agreed personal terms with the player and are now waiting on a final decision from Fulham.
If Fulham decide to loan him to the Championship, then Yeni Malatyaspor will look to sign a different striker before the transfer deadline, so they need to know soon.
With the arrival of Ryan Babel, Kamara has dropped down the pecking order at Craven Cottage and is likely to move on in this window.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-waiting-final-decision-fulham-agreeing-terms-player/
Claudio Ranieri explains what must happen before Fulham can offload their fringe players
A number of Fulham's fringe players have been linked with moves away this January
Fulham will only sell players if they have a replacement already signed this January.
A host of the club's stars have been linked with moves away from Craven Cottage this transfer window, with Stefan Johansen, Neeskens Kebano, Kevin McDonald, Aboubakar Kamara and Fabri among those names.
However, Fulham have only managed to sign one player so far in this window, securing the services of Ryan Babel from Besiktas until the end of the season with defensive targets so far eluding them.
The only players to have been sold are Cauley Woodrow and Stephen Humphrys, but both of these were already out on loan during the first part of the season and had no place in Fulham's first team.
The transfer window shuts in two days time, and while players that have played bit parts this campaign are being linked with moves away, Ranieri insists he wants to maintain what he calls a 'very good group'.
When asked if players would be leaving, he said: "Could be – if somebody comes, somebody may leave the club.
"I spoke with some players, and we said maybe it is much better for them to go and play and not stay here.
"But of course I have to replace these players. If a player goes I have to replace.
"We want to maintain this group, because it is a very good group, and I need everybody. Everybody that is available, and I have to choose the best XI.
"I am optimistic we can get players in, one, two, three, I don't know. Maybe four!"
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/claudio-ranieri-explains-what-must-15745980
Player 'has been proposed' to Fulham in the 'past few hours' for January move
It wouldn't really be the end of the transfer window without Domagoj Vida getting involved.
Il Messaggero report that AS Roma are tempted by the Besiktas player, as sports director Monchi looks to bring in a defender before the window closes.
The Croatian 'has been proposed' in the 'past few hours' to Fulham and Inter Milan, according to the Italian newspaper.
There's no further claims on a possible deal, but Fulham have been linked repeatedly with Vida, who impressed for his country at the World Cup in Russia.
In December we covered claims from Turkey that Fulham were lining up an offer for the player ahead of the January window, with the club said to be aware they needed to to strengthen Claudio Ranieri's options quickly.
Then, on January 3rd, France's Le10 Sport got involved and claimed the Premier League club had made Vida their priority and could submit an offer 'very soon'.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/player-proposed-fulham-past-hours-january-move/
Dale Stephens on a key spell for Albion in their quest for Premier League safety
Albion's visit to Fulham tonight launches what Dale Stephens has described as a "massive period" in their quest to achieve Premier League safety sooner rather than later.
The Seagulls face six of the seven sides below them in their next eight matches, beginning with the team one place off the bottom and 12 points adrift of them.
After coming through a difficult run of fixtures largely unscathed, Stephens knows the next sequence will define whether Albion have a relatively relaxed or anxious conclusion to their second year back in the top flight.
The midfield general said: "It's going to be a massive period for us. Our form has generally been good and especially with the fixtures coming up, against teams in and around us, it's a very important couple of weeks.
"With good results we know we can put (more) space between us and the bottom. That's got to be our main focus.
"It speaks for itself. If you can beat the teams below you, you are going to stand a better chance of staying in the division.
"We might be so many points better off than they (Fulham) are but we need the three points just as much as anybody else.
"We know we are nowhere finished what we want to do this season. The quicker we can get to 40 points and the safety mark the goalposts might change but we've got three points to play for and we are very much looking forward to it."
A Premier League visit to Craven Cottage was a long way off for Stephens 12 years ago. Fulham were in the top flight while he was on loan to non-League Droylsden from Bury, playing in the fifth tier.
The 29-year-old Lancastrian has worked his way up the divisions via Oldham, Rochdale, Southampton (on loan), Charlton (above right) and the Seagulls, who secured his services five years ago tomorrow. This evening he makes his 53rd start for Albion in the Premier League.
"I think any time I have stepped up into a division is by promotion and the way this came around was the same route," he said.
"It's something I've been proud of. When you step up again you've got to prove yourself again and it's something I quite enjoy.
"Eighteen months into my Premier League career I'm enjoying every minute of it. We've improved already on what we did last year to this part of the season.
"If you look at the top six home and away, we have come closer against those teams. It's all about improving as individuals and as a team."
Stephens' regular central role in the engine room has been slightly revised since Chris Hughton reverted from his customary 4-4-1-1 system to 4-3-3, Pascal Gross dropping deeper to form a midfield trio which also incorporates Davy Propper (below), backed up by Yves Bissouma and Beram Kayal.
Opportunities for Stephens to get on the scoresheet are few and far between, although he came closest to breaking the deadlock in Saturday's 0-0 FA Cup draw at home to West Brom with a shot tipped onto the post by keeper Jonathan Bond prior to Propper replacing him.
"The overall feeling from the weekend is disappointment," Stephens said. "I think we had 26 opportunities, had a lot of the ball, and we were disappointed we couldn't do more with it.
"My role has probably changed slightly in terms of the shape we are playing at the moment.
"I'm the deeper one of the three in midfield and your chances of getting into the box are very limited.
"But I do try. I had a chance at the weekend. It's probably not my main focus going into a game and I'm happy to do that (job).
"The ultimate aim is to pick up three points and I'll do everything in my power to do that."
Stephens broke his Premier League duck on Albion's last trip to the capital at the beginning of the month.
They uncharacteristically surrendered a commanding lead at West Ham to blemish an otherwise satisfactory return of five points from as many matches, including a win and draw at home to Everton and Arsenal, followed by narrow defeats by Liverpool and Manchester United.
"We missed a trick there," Stephens admitted. "Not too many teams go to West Ham and go 2-0 up. That's been part of our make up really. Once we go ahead we generally manage to see it out.
"Looking back, that was probably the biggest disappointment throughout a tough period. But we've got tough games coming up. I would argue these games coming up are more important."
Beginning with Fulham. They have struggled despite spending more than £100 million since promotion via the play-offs last season and replacing the adventurous Slavisa Jokanovic in November with the more practical Claudio Ranieri.
"I wouldn't say I'm surprised," Stephens said. "It's a tough division. Clubs have different views and the way they go about it.
"They've opted to spend a lot of money. I think it goes to show the pressure that it brings along.
"We are going to look after ourselves. It's going to be a tough game. We've known the Fulham side for the last few years. They are a good, footballing team."
https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/17391088.dale-stephens-on-a-key-spell-for-albion-in-their-quest-for-premier-league-safety/
Nottingham Forest make contact with club to try and sign promotion-winning midfielder
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Sky Bet Championship side Nottingham Forest have made an approach to sign Fulham midfielder Kevin McDonald, according to reports from Football Insider.
The 30-year-old played an integral role in the Cottagers' midfield last season, making 46 appearances as the London club secured promotion to the Premier League under Slavisa Jokanovic via the play-offs.
But since the arrival of Claudio Ranieri at Craven Cottage, the Scottish international has played just eight minutes of football for the club, in a 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Boxing Day.
The Cottagers have given the green light for the midfielder to leave before the transfer window slams shut on Thursday evening, with Martin O'Neill's Nottingham Forest making an approach to sign the 30-year old.
The Reds were linked with a move to sign the Scotsman at the start of last season under Mark Warburton, however it seems as if the Reds have emerged as front-runners to sign McDonald after making an approach.
Forest still remain well in the hunt for a play-off finish come the end of the season – the Reds currently sit 9th in the Sky Bet Championship table, four points off the top six after defeating Wigan Athletic 3-1 at the weekend.
The Verdict
Kevin McDonald would be a fantastic signing for Forest.
He was the unsung hero for Fulham last season in their promotion to the Premier League, and finds himself unlucky not to be a regular in this struggling Fulham side.
He has experience of being successful at this level, which could be beneficial for the Reds in the business end of the campaign.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/nottingham-forest-make-contact-with-club-to-try-and-sign-promotion-winning-midfielder/
Friday Night Football under the lights - Fulham on General Sale now
Friday Night Football returns to London Stadium on 22 February when Fulham are the visitors, and you can secure your seat with tickets on General Sale now!
West Ham United will be looking to get the weekend started in style against their west London rivals, and complete a Premier League double over the Cottagers, having defeated them 2-0 at Craven Cottage in December.
Buy your Fulham tickets here now
Don't miss what is sure to be a cracking atmosphere under the lights as a 60,000 crowd get behind the Hammers in a derby duel.
Tickets start at just £35 for adults and £20 concessions and are available to purchase now by clicking here, by calling 0333 030 1966 or visiting us at the London Stadium Ticket Office.
Hurry before they sell out and don't miss the chance to be there for an unforgettable Friday night.
Read more at https://www.whufc.com/news/articles/2019/january/29-january/friday-night-football-under-lights-fulham-general-sale-now#UIuolxPGxfBKqXMV.99
Claudio Ranieri outlines why Sergio Rico will continue as his number one at Fulham
The 25-year-old has kept three clean sheets in his 17 appearance for the club since joining on loan
Claudio Ranieri will continue with Sergio Rico as his number one at Fulham despite the side's defensive issues continuing this season.
The 25-year-old has kept just three clean sheets in 17 appearances for the club this season but has seen himself claim the number one jersey from Marcus Bettinelli and Fabri at Craven Cottage after arriving on a season-long loan from Sevilla in the summer.
He's done well in his six-months between the sticks in England but came in for criticism after the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur last week for not coming out to collect crosses and command his box.
There have even been reports that Bettinelli could be in line for recall against Brighton and Hove Albion this evening in the Premier League, but Ranieri doesn't see the point in changing goalkeepers and believes doing that will make the situation even worse.
He said: "Bettinelli is the number two and Fabri is the number three.
"It's difficult to change, because if you change every time you will never find the solution.
There have even been reports that Bettinelli could be in line for recall against Brighton and Hove Albion this evening in the Premier League, but Ranieri doesn't see the point in changing goalkeepers and believes doing that will make the situation even worse.
He said: "Bettinelli is the number two and Fabri is the number three.
"It's difficult to change, because if you change every time you will never find the solution.
"The psychology is totally different and I need to give the support to my keeper all the time."
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/claudio-ranieri-outlines-sergio-rico-15746260
Report: Fulham eye move to sign Benfica's Andre Almeida
Fulham are struggling badly in the Premier League this season, and despite spending big in the summer transfer window, they are facing the prospect of relegation.
Bolstering the defence is one of Claudio Ranieri's major tasks in January, and the former Leicester City boss has made no secret of the need for a new right-sided defender this month.
Manchester United loanee Timothy Fosu-Mensah has hugely disappointed and Ranieri doesn't see him as a part of his plans.
According to reports from O Jogo, the Cottagers are looking to sign Benfica's Andre Almeida in January.
The report claims that Fulham have made a £7 million bid for the Portugal international; however, they will not enter negotiations with Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira.
The 28-year-old has been playing at the Estadio da Luz ever since joining from Belenenses in 2011 and has won four Primeira Liga titles.
Almeida has been in good form since the start of the 2017/18 campaign, managing 13 assists in his 49 league appearances for Benfica.
He would be a brilliant signing for the Cottagers, but it remains to be seen whether £7 million bid would be enough to secure his signature.
https://sportslens.com/report-fulham-eye-move-to-sign-benficas-andre-almeida/257919/
Report: Fulham turn down Domagoj Vida as Croatian nears Roma switch
Fulham have conceded 51 Premier League goals this season but it seems that Besiktas centre-back Vida was simply too expensive.
Croatian international defender Domagoj Vida could be on his way to Roma despite being offered to Premier League strugglers Fulham, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.
2018 was by far the most impressive year of Vida's career as he sealed a move to Besiktas before starring at the World Cup in Russia, helping Croatia reach the final for the first time in their history while beating England and Argentina along the way.
As a result, his reputation has gone through the roof. And Gianluca Di Marzio believes that Vida could be rewarded for 12 stellar months with the biggest move of his career.
Roma manager Eusebio Di Francesco is keen to bring the former Dinamo Zagreb colossus to the Stadio Olympic.
Interestingly, the report adds that Vida was offered to Fulham with Besiktas in the midst of a financial crisis. But it is understood that the Turkish Super Lig side were demanding a fee that Claudio Ranieri's side were simply not willing to pay.
This is despite a dreadful defensive record that has seen The Cottagers concede 51 goals in just 23 top flight games this season.
Sporx reported earlier in the month that the 29-year-old Vida was valued at £10.8 million.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2019/01/29/do-report-fulham-turn-down-domagoj-vida-as-croatian-nears-roma-s/
EXCLUSIVE: Fears grow that Fulham will sign no more players in January
Ryan Babel may turn out to be the only player Fulham sign in January, Love Sport understands.
The Dutch attacker signed a short-term contract with the club earlier this month as Claudio Ranieri looked to strengthen the squad that had more than £100million spent on it over the summer.
The Italian boss is also understood to have been in talks over a move for Chelsea defender Gary Cahill but Fulham could not offer him the wages required.
And now multiple club sources have told Love Sport that they are worried the Cottagers will not bring in anyone else over the next two days, despite the fact that they remain seven points from safety and have conceded more goals than any other team in the Premier League.
Danny Drinkwater and Victor Moses have also been linked with a move across West London and were even given a training ground tour in an effort to convince them of the club's merits but those transfers have also failed to materialise.
The lack of activity has left fans particularly disgruntled with Fulham vice-chairman Tony Khan who has promised investment and 'multiple signings' in January to help the club's stricken league position.
Ranieri meanwhile appears to believe he will be given the chance to sign reinforcements this week before the transfer window slams shut at 11pm on Thursday night.
"I don't know if Cahill is on our lists. We have alternatives and I am sure the club will try to do the best for the team," Ranieri said.
"We are looking for good opportunities.
"If somebody come in the battle will be very hard, but we are always positive and never give up and we are ready to make the maximum effort.
"I think the recruitment, Tony Khan and everybody are working hard to give us the opportunity for me to choose the best for the team."
Khan himself has been keen to reinforce that Fulham still believe they are in with a chance of avoiding relegation.
"To the squad, staff and supporters, some people are waving the white flag and saying we should surrender. People said the same when we were six and four points behind during the past two seasons. We closed the gap both times," Khan wrote on social media earlier this month.
"We can close this gap. It's on our players now to fight, finish and win.
"Our squad has great moments but they've shown their abilities more often than they've gotten the points we need.
"As with last January we'll make multiple signings to improve the squad."
https://www.lovesportradio.com/news/love-sport-exclusives/exclusive-fears-grow-that-fulham-will-sign-no-more-players-in-january/
Newcastle and Fulham linked with Premier League South American
Premier League sides Newcastle United and Fulham are interested in signing Manchester United veteran Antonio Valencia, according to a report published by The Daily Mail.
The 33-year-old's current contract at Old Trafford is set to expire in the summer and he has fallen down the pecking order at the club.
Valencia is unlikely to get an extended contract at United, opening the opportunity for Newcastle and Fulham.
The South American full-back has only managed five Premier League appearances thus far this season and could leave the club on a cut-price fee this month if a good opportunity arises.
Newcastle are short of money to spend due to the reluctance of owner Mike Ashley to splash the cash – as such, a cut-price deal would suit the St James' Park outfit.
Fulham are in a battle to stay in the Premier League and as such Valencia's experience and ability would be a welcome addition at Craven Cottage.
United will be keen to offload Valencia in order to get him off their wage bill.
The 33-year-old joined the club during the summer of 2009 from Wigan Athletic and went on to establish himself as a fan favourite.
Valencia has so far made 338 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring 25 goals and has also won two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two League Cups and one Europa League.
Valencia also boasts 93 appearances and 11 goals for the Ecuador national team. He was a participant for his country during the World Cups in 2006 and 2014 as well as during the Copa America tournaments in 2007, 2011 and 2016.
The veteran could still have a lot to offer the likes of Newcastle and Fulham, whom both face a battle to avoid relegation this season.
Whether a deal goes ahead could ultimately come down to whether United will be willing to pay out the remainder of the player's contract.
https://ninetyminutesonline.com/newcastle-and-fulham-linked-with-premier-league-south-american/
