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Fulham statistics: 84 per cent possession and 935 successful passes in win over Millwall

Ivan Cavaleiro struck twice as a totally dominant Fulham eased their way to a 4-0 victory over Millwall at Craven Cottage.

The Portugal winger, signed on a season-long loan from Wolves, followed up his superb match-winning strike at Huddersfield last Friday with two outstanding finishes.

Anthony Knockaert, another of Scott Parker's summer signings, and Aleksandar Mitrovic were also on target as the Cottagers registered a third successive win and brought Millwall's unbeaten run in the Sky Bet Championship to a halt.

Parker's side enjoyed more than 80 per cent possession and made 935 successful passeson

The Fulham boss said: "The most pleasing thing is all the work that has gone in over the last 10 weeks you finally see your team execute against a good Millwall side who have started their season well.

"Full credit goes to the players who have been superb.

"Momentum is with us. We are winning football matches, that's three on the bounce now, and confidence is high and long may that continue.

"This league is relentless. Tonight is good of course but four games in we have a long way to go. This has been a good night but come tomorrow we work it away."

Match statistics

Fulham	Match statistics	Millwall
84	Possession	16
935	Successful passes	115
11	Shots	7
8	Corners	1
11	Fouls	11

           


https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham/fulham-statistics-84-per-cent-possession-and-935-successful-passes-in-win-over-millwall-a4218831.html

Fulham loanee Harry Arter 'desperate' for promotion as he targets long-term Craven Cottage stay


Harry Arter has set his sights on getting Fulham promoted to the Premier League so he can make his loan move permanent.

The midfielder moved to Craven Cottage on loan for the season earlier this month after Bournemouth agreed to let him go.

Arter has settled quickly at Fulham, starting their last three games and helping them to collect nine points.

The latest of those victories came on Wednesday night against Millwall as Fulham ran out 4-0 winners.

Afterwards, Arter - who is the brother-in-law of manager Scott Parker - revealed he is hoping to fire the club straight back to the top-flight so he can make his stay in west London a permanent one.

"I don't know what people think the deal is, but for me the only way that I can definitely stay next year is if we get promoted," Arter told Standard Sport.

"So I am desperate to go up, for me personally of course because I want to spend the next few years here. So promotion and staying is definitely in my mind of course.

"I've settled in really well. I've been coming to watch Fulham for the last five or six years so I kind of felt like a part of the club before I even joined. So that side of things has been easy."

Fulham were in imperious form on Wednesday night as they claimed a win that saw them move up to third in the Championship after four games.

Winger Ivan Cavaleiro struck in either half, while Anthony Knockaert also got in on the act and Aleksandar Mitrovic scored a penalty.

Impressively, Parker's side finished the match with 84.5 per cent possession and 934 completed passes, which is the highest recorded in the Championship since Opta began a full collection of statistics for the second tier in 2013.

"I think we nailed everything the manager wanted us to do tonight - on and off the ball," added Arter.

"I felt we were in total control, especially when the goals went in. There were some big moments, I think the third goal completely killed it off, but from what the manager wanted us to do before the game we did everything he set up for us.

"Obviously it worked so it was a real pleasing night.

"He (Parker) is not big on stats or breaking records, he wants to win games. His philosophy is based on keeping the ball. I think it is evident that's the case.

"I always feel there is two ways of playing. There is never a right or wrong way to play. He has obviously just chose that he wants to play good football."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham/fulham-loanee-harry-arter-desperate-for-promotion-as-he-targets-longterm-craven-cottage-stay-a4218871.html

Scott Parker has high praise for his Fulham players after masterclass of passing in thumping of Millwall

Scott Parker commended his players following a dominant victory over Millwall at Craven Cottage – with a statement performance that broke statistical records.

The Fulham head coach saw his side put four past their visitors, with goals from Anthony Knockaert, Aleksander Mitrovic and a brace from Ivan Cavaleiro sealing a comfortable win.

Neil Harris' men struggled to get near their hosts at times, as they recorded an astounding 84.5% possession statistic – the highest recorded stat since Opta started overseeing the Championship.

And Parker thought their stunning performance was exactly what his men deserved after a meticulous pre-season.

"Yeah, definitely [the best we've played] this year, I think," said the Whites chief in the aftermath of the game.

"Probably the most pleasing thing sitting here as a coach is that all the work that's gone on over the last 10 weeks now – pre-season and that – you finally see your team execute.

"[It] was pleasing against a very good Millwall side who have started their season pretty well really. I think full credit to the players; the players have been superb. From the start of pre-season, the information they've been given at times has been poured upon them, but they've been so receptive, right behind the process and ultimately the only way you can perform like that is down to that fact really. They deserve their time tonight to perform like that and that's probably the most pleasing thing for me."

The Lions struggled to cope with the Whites attacking quality – with each of the hosts front-three finding the net – and whilst Parker praised his forwards, he also made sure he stressed the importance of those behind them.

"Our whole framework, the way we play and our structure around this team is based around those [attacking] players," explained Parker.

"There's a lot of support around them in terms of other positions and what the other boys do. Ultimately, they're the ones who get the headlines and score the goals but there's a foundation behind them, the Cairney's, the Johansen's, the Arter's, the Sessegnon's which ultimately get us to a point in the pitch where we can give them the ball and they can do what they do."

In addition to the record-breaking possession stat, Fulham also completed 934 passes – which is more in one game than Cardiff, Millwall and Wigan have recorded in their first four league matches combined.

"Wow, that's amazing," said Parker when informed of the possession stats in his post-match press conference.

"I felt comfortable tonight in a sense of the way we played. Other than the first five minutes of the second half, we always felt we were in control of the game and that's exactly how I want us to play. I want us to have control of the football match with the ball and dominate possession. That stat's pleasing – ultimately that's how we believe we want to play really.

"There's two days turnaround now and we're going to Forest, two days turnaround to Southampton. Cardiff away on a Friday night, this league is relentless. Tonight's good of course but we're four games in, it's a long one. Ultimately, we'll cherish this night – it's been a great night – but come tomorrow morning we wipe it away. It's a memory and we move on to Forest really that's what matters next. "



https://www.londonnewsonline.co.uk/scott-parker-has-high-praise-for-his-fulham-players-after-masterclass-of-passing-in-thumping-of-millwall/

Academy Duo Claim Awards

Tyrese Francois and Connor McAvoy scooped awards pitchside at half time in our win against Millwall at Craven Cottage.

Francois won the Johnny Haynes Academy Player of the Year award, in partnership with the Supporters' Trust, which takes into account performances on the pitch as well as all-round character. This award was voted for by Academy staff and players in the Under-16 to 23s age group.

McAvoy took the award of Premier League Scholar of the Year. This award is of a similar merit to Francois' which one player from each team in the Premier League Programme receives. The accolade is given to a player that excels in all formats of his scholarship; whether that's on the pitch or in the classroom as well as acting as a role model.

Academy Director, Huw Jennings was quick to praise the work ethic of Francois as well as commend the Supporters' Trust for their support.


"We've had really good relations with the Fulham Supporters' Trust who have been very proactive in trying to promote our work." He told fulhamfc.com. "This was their idea to come up with the Johnny Haynes Academy Player of the Year award. This is great for Tyrese who shows an exemplary attitude and works hard to give his maximum. It's pleasing that Tyrese embodies the key virtues we promote here of hard-work, honesty and humility."

Jennings was also complimentary of Premier League Scholar of the Year in McAvoy. An award that he was overdue in receiving.

"This award is given to a player from each team in the Premier League Programme, which includes some clubs outside the Premier League." He continued. "Connor was among some great nominees, but the decision was unanimous among Academy management. He was away in Hong Kong when this was presented at the Youth Conference, so we thought it only right that he collected this award with Tyrese."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/22/academy-duo-scoop-awards

Fulham performance belonged in the Premier League and foundations are in place for immediate return

Neil Harris perhaps summed up best what every Fulham supporter was wondering as they left Craven Cottage last night in the aftermath of this match.

"Their fans must be thinking: 'What are we doing in this division? We should be in the Premier League'," said the Millwall manager.

In truth, this was very much a performance of Premier League quality from Fulham as they put four goals past their London rivals.

They dominated proceedings to the extent that their tally of 934 completed passes was more than Millwall have managed in all four of their League  games this season.

At times, Fulham were unplayable and Anthony Knockaert's 32nd-minute goal — which put the home side 2-0 ahead — was the end result of a move which contained 26 passes and all 11 of their players.

On this evidence, it will not just be Millwall who struggle to cope with Fulham this season, particularly if their front three stay fit this season. Knockaert, Aleksander Mitrovic and Ivan Cavaleiro all scored on Wednesday — with the latter hitting a double.

Fulham's time  in the Premier League was short and anything but sweet last season — in fact, it left a bitter taste in the mouth as they were relegated from the top flight with five games to go.

"Fulham should still be in the Premier League with the money they spent, they really underperformed last season," said Harris.

Fulham may have spent big last summer — around £100million on 12 players — but money does not always guarantee success, as shown by two of the club's most expensive acquisitions from last year, midfielders Jean Michael Seri and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, being out on loan.

However, Fulham deserve praise this summer for changing their strategy in the transfer market and opting for greater stability. This is not the overhaul of a year ago, merely fine tuning.

Crucially Fulham's defence on Wednesday, for example, was made up entirely of players who were at  the club last season, with academy graduate Steven Sessegnon — the twin brother of new Spurs signing Ryan — promoted to right-back. Contrast that to a year ago, when, after 12 matches, Fulham had  not played the same defence in consecutive Premier League games.

In midfield, there has been a shift, too. Instead of expensive foreign imports being signed, the club  have brought in Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter on loan. He brings a wealth Championship experience — and at a low cost.

Ahead of him, Tom Cairney is being allowed to flourish in a more familiar central role, while Fulham have again added players with Championship experience in wingers Cavaleiro and Knockaert. They, like Arter, have sensibly been brought in on loan initially but one would expect them to stay beyond this season, given the start to their Craven Cottage careers.

It all makes for a summer window  that has Fulham fans rightly dreaming of an immediate return to the Premier League.

"That's credit to the owners and [vice-chairman] Tony Khan who identified the mistakes we made last year in terms of recruitment and ticked boxes," said Fulham boss Scott Parker.

"You know what you're getting, what you've signed, and the new boys have fitted in perfectly. Our framework, the way we play, our structure is based around those players."

The challenge for Fulham is to not get carried away. The Championship is a long and arduous season but, in contrast to last year, one certainly feels as though the club have got the foundations in place to succeed.

Parker said: "Momentum is with us and confidence is high, and long may that continue."

If their performance at Craven Cottage is anything to go by, Fulham's momentum will take some stopping.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham/fulham-performance-belonged-in-the-premier-league-and-foundations-are-in-place-for-immediate-return-a4218931.html

Millwall boss Neil Harris offers glowing assessment of Scott Parker's Fulham

Sometimes, it is the opposing manger who best sums up the worth of a team.

Millwall suffered death by a thousand passes at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night. A 4-0 drubbing was the perhaps inevitable consequence of a ridiculously lopsided contest in which the Whites hogged an astonishing 85 per cent of possession.

"Is that all?" quipped Lions boss Neil Harris.

There was no point in Harris berating his players after such a chastening defeat and he generously acknowledged that his side had been trounced by a team that maybe have no business being in the Championship.

"Congratulations to Fulham. I thought they were magnificent tonight," he said.

"Certainly the best performance I've seen probably since Wolves got 100 points a couple of years ago to go up. Fulham fans will watch that tonight and think: 'What are we doing in this division?' We should be in the Premier League.'

"As good as they were, I thought we gave them a bit of a leg-up at times - the last two goals we gave the ball back to them cheaply and we have to be better than that. We got punished.

"But I won't judge my players on tonight's performance or tonight's result against a top Fulham side. There will be a lot of teams that come here this season and get beaten like we did.

"They caused us the most problems as a team than anyone other than probably Tottenham in the FA Cup quarter-final during my time in charge."

Parker needed only sit back and look humble. His players, and Harris, did the talking for him.

"Probably the most pleasing thing, sitting here as a coach is, after all the work that's gone the past 10 weeks in pre-season, seeing the team execute. Full credit to the players. They've been superb. Momentum's with us. That's three on the bounce now and obviously confidence is high and long may that continue."

Expectations too. With Harris having done his bit to ensure that.



https://www.capitalfootball.co.uk/single-post/2019/08/22/Millwall-boss-Neil-Harris-offers-glowing-assessment-of-Scott-Parkers-Fulham

Games for the Weekend 24/08
Back at the Cottage for a 3 o'clock kick-off, this time we welcome Nottingham Forest.
So after Wednesday evenings derby we get to play at a more traditional kick-off time against a Forest team who gained a draw on their travels to Charlton mid-week.
The performance of our front three of Mitro, Cavalerio and Knockaert showed why most Championship teams will not be looking forward to a trip to the Cottage.

Forest had good results over the previous 3 games, beating Birmingham City 3-0 and drawing two away games against Leeds and Charlton, so they'll be full of confidence.

COYWs

Games of interest...
Saturday 24th
Derby v West Brom
Blackburn v Cardiff
Charlton v Brentford
Fulham v Notts Forest
QPR v Wigan
Stoke v Leeds

Sunday 25th
Swansea v Birmingham City

---

come on over to the forum and join in the discussion...
https://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?board=1.0



https://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=908

Record Breakers

Fulham's blistering 4-0 victory over Millwall was done in real style, a fact endorsed by the statistics over the course of the 90 minutes.

By half-time, the Whites had seen an astonishing 89 per cent of the ball, and although this was reduced to 84.4 come full-time it was still a record high for the Championship (since Opta began full collection of statistics in 2013/14).

That record is also true of our 934 completed passes, which equated to a 94 per cent success rate. (Fulham were nine away from attempting 1,000 balls in the match.)

To put that 934 figure into context, it's more successful passes than three fellow Championship sides have managed throughout all four of their opening fixtures. Wigan Athletic and Cardiff City have managed 794 and 782, respectively, so far in 2019/20, while Wednesday's opponents Millwall are on 501 for the campaign.

Furthermore, the lead up to Anthony Knockaert's first Fulham goal featured 26 passes, the longest sequence for a Championship goal this season, and also involved all 11 members of the team.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/22/record-breakers

'I want to spend the next few years here' – Harry Arter 'desperate' to seal promotion with loan club Fulham

HARRY Arter revealed how he was "desperate" to gain promotion with Fulham and said: "I want to spend the next few years here."

The on-loan Cherries midfielder has started the Cottagers' past three Championship fixtures, including Wednesday's 4-0 victory over Millwall.

Republic of Ireland international Arter joined up with his brother-in-law Scott Parker on a season-long loan move from Cherries earlier this month.

As part of the deal, Fulham have an obligation to buy the Sidcup-born star next summer, depending on certain performance-based criteria.

This is believed to include whether or not the west London side seal promotion.

Speaking to Standard Sport, Arter said: "I don't know what people think the deal is, but for me the only way that I can definitely stay next year is if we get promoted.

"So I am desperate to go up, for me personally of course because I want to spend the next few years here. So promotion and staying is definitely in my mind of course.

"I've settled in really well. I've been coming to watch Fulham for the past five or six years so I kind of felt like a part of the club before I even joined. So that side of things has been easy."

The 29-year-old joined Cherries from Woking for just £4,000 in 2010 and has made 255 appearances for the club, netting 29 goals.

Arter's contract with Cherries expires in the summer of 2021.

Speaking further about Fulham boss Parker, the midfielder added: "He is not big on stats or breaking records, he wants to win games.

"His philosophy is based on keeping the ball. I think it is evident that's the case."



https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/cherries/clubnews/17853806.39-want-spend-next-years-39---harry-arter-39-desperate-39-seal-promotion-loan-club-fulham/

Leeds might be favourites, but Championship promotion race is wide open

In this week's EFL column, EFL on Quest pundit Ian Holloway discusses the wide open promotion race plus the plight of Bolton and Bury

Most of the teams are looking good so far in the Championship.

Nobody has run away with it and won every game so far, and it just proves how competitive it's going to be. I think it's a fantastic league.

I really like the look of Leeds. That might sound obvious, but I think their manager has already proved he knows what he's doing. Obviously they lost Kemar Roofe, one of their main goalscorers, but Patrick Bamford has stepped up and they've looked great so far.

But it's wide open, as we saw on Tuesday night with Bristol City going to Derby, having lost Adam Webster in the summer, and winning. What a result that was.

Sheffield Wednesday went top on Tuesday night, and they've been fantastic so far even without a permanent manager after Steve Bruce left.

I'm expecting Nottingham Forest to do quite well this season, I've got a feeling about them. I watched them get their first win against Birmingham at the weekend and I was impressed with the way they played.

But anything is possible. Who can be consistent? Who can be there or thereabouts?

There are far too many good teams in the division to even dream of picking a top six at this stage. I can't wait to see it unfold, and I really am very excited at the level of the football being shown.

Wolves proved it last year. The team that got them up in style finished seventh in the Premier League without many additions. I believe Norwich, Sheffield United and Aston Villa could all do very well in the Premier League.

I'm very proud of the EFL, and the level of each division. It's getting closer and closer to the Premier League, the level of coaching is improving, and it's going to be fascinating watching it all unfold.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/leeds-might-favourites-championship-promotion-18982689

Fulham 4 Millwall 0 - five things we learned

Here are five things we learned from Millwall;s 4-0 defeat at Craven Cottage.

Wrong Game Plan

Fulham's strengths lie in their attack. Fulham's weaknesses lie in their defence.

You could say the tactics used by Neil Harris played into Scott Parker's side's plans at Craven Cottage. Sitting back it gifted Fulham possession, and lots of it, and invited their potent attacking line on to them.

Last season Fulham didn't have problems scoring, it was keeping the ball out of the net where they had issues.

In the very few times Millwall got forward they caused problems, especially when the robust Matt Smith was introduced at the break.

Barnsley it seems showed the blueprint of how to beat this Fulham side, by taking the game to them. Winning 1-0 they amassed 17 shots to Fulham's 15 on the opening day of the season as they looked to get an advantage by targeting their weakness, their backline.

Hindsight is a great thing, but Harris would surely re-think his gameplan if he had a second crack at the West Londoners.

Pace is Paramount

The one thing defender's hate facing more than any is speed. In Anthony Knockhaert and Ivan Cavaleior Fulham had it in abundance. Mahlon Romeo aside, Alex Pearce, Jake Cooper and Murray Wallace found the going very tough.

Pearce may have added a steeliness and professionalism to Millwall's defence, but up against a lightning quick attack, it was painful to watch at times. He'll be grateful that he'll only be facing a side of Fulham's quality twice this season.

Matt Smith - game changer

Eyebrows were raised when Saturday's matchwinner wasn't in the starting line-up as Neil Harris opted for Tom Bradshaw to lead the line.

Bradshaw run his socks off but with no support the Welshman found the going tough and failed to drag his side up the field.

Smith's entrance at the break, playing alongside Bradshaw yielded a five-ten minute spell of Millwall dominance, no doubt contributing to a the bulk of their 15% possession stats. A couple of half chances were created and problems were caused. With a bit a luck they could've got a goal and maybe go on to miraculously get something from the game.

Fulham's penalty paid end to any revival, but the impact made by Smith was clear to see and he'll be a useful tool this season, if he hasn't already proved it.

Calmness amongst Lions fans

Last season's lynching mentality has gone from The Den faithful. Reserved in their judgement to lambast their side, Millwall fans were aware they simply came up against a top side in Fulham.

It seems they are firmly behind Neill Harris and his new approach this season and will be realistic in their ambitions.

All they ask is for endeavour and fight, which the players gave at Craven Cottage, they simply weren't on the same level as Fulham.

They'll dust themselves off, go to Middlesbrough and support their side once again. Miilllllll.

Fulham were THAT good

Stats don't lie. 85% is a battering. Millwall just came up against a Fulham side on the top of their game, and it'll be a hard performance to replicate this season. Scott Parker said it was the best display he's seen from his outfit, and I think every Fulham fan would agree.

Sadly for Neil Harris, it happened against his emerging Lions side.



https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/sport/17854154.fulham-4-millwall-0---five-things-learned/

Fulham fans laud Steven Sessegnon after solid showing in Millwall win

The youngster was once again impressive at right-back for Scott Parker's team.


Fulham completed a display of total dominance in their 4-0 win over Millwall at Craven Cottage last night. The Cottagers finished the game with a staggering 84.5% possession (The Telegraph).

Very few games at Championship level play out in a situation that resembles men against boys, but this was an exception.

Scott Parker's team completely smashed the sorry Lions and on this form, they will take some stopping in their quest for promotion this season.

Fulham's goals last night came courtesy of an Ivan Cavaleiro brace, Anthony Knockaert and an Aleksandar Mitrovic penalty.

Amid a plethora of attacking talent, it is perhaps one of Fulham's defensive performers who is pleasantly surprising supporters at the moment.

Stephen Sessegnon is the younger brother of Ryan who recently left Craven Cottage to join Tottenham. He has started the last two games at right-back and looked comfortable on both occasions.

Following the game he tweeted his delight at getting more minutes on the pitch and ultimately another three points:

Sessegnon has risen through the Fulham ranks and will hope to become a first-team regular this season.

Parker has trusted him to play in the early stages of the campaign and on current form he could become a permanent fixture in the team.

Following his latest display, supporters were keen to tweet Sessegnon to heap praise on the youngster.

Here is a selection of tweets regarding the performance of the 19-year-old:



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-stephen-sessegnon/

Talking Points: Millwall

We address five talking points which arose from Fulham's hefty victory over Millwall.

1. Versatility on the wing

The beauty of Anthony Knockaert and Ivan Cavaleiro being equally comfortable on either wing means that the two can swap flanks at will, further bamboozling opposition full-backs. We saw them alternate their positions on a couple of occasions in the early stages of the game, with the first switch seeing Knockaert move left and pick out Aleksandar Mitrović for the first decent chance of the night. And then two minutes later Cavaleiro was back out there where he started, cutting inside to slam home the opener.

2. Opposition praise

You know you've played well when the opposition come out with nothing but praise in their post-match comments. Millwall boss Neil Harris had no excuses for his side's mauling, stating: "It's not nice as a manager to say you deserved to get beat heavily, but they were better than us, much better than us."


3. Fans in awe

The feelgood factor was back at the Cottage in abundance on Wednesday night, with fans salivating at the football on display. A brief glance of twitter saw plenty of comparisons to the style of play implemented by Jean Tigana and Slaviša Jokanović, while during the game the home faithful certainly let Scott Parker know what they thought of his team and their performance.

4. Overdue derby joy

Fulham's London derbies in the Premier League did not exactly go to plan, so it was pleasing to see some capital gains once again, ironically against the last London team we defeated - a 3-0 win at the Den back in April 2018.

5. Mad statistics

Over the years we've become accustomed to Fulham enjoying the lion's share of the ball in Championship fixtures, but we'd never before seen anything to the extent of Wednesday's dominance. 84.4 per cent possession is pretty much unheard of at any level, and so it comes as little surprise that it's a Sky Bet Championship record.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/22/talking-points-millwall

Cavaleiro: We Can Go Far

Ivan Cavaleiro hopes Fulham have started as they mean to go on in the Sky Bet Championship this season.

After an opening day blip, the Whites have taken nine points from nine to go third in the table, with Ivan Cavaleiro's brace a key factor in our most recent victory over Millwall.


"Of course I'm very happy to score two goals for the team," he told fulhamfc.com. "I've worked hard on the pitch to achieve this, and I hope I can contribute to the team like this in every game. The more victories we have, the happier I'll be.

"I think we played very well to achieve this win, and I hope we can continue doing this in games; keeping possession, being aggressive, and with this attitude I think we can go far in the Championship."

Craven Cottage was rocking on Wednesday evening, with the home crowd lapping up the liquid football on display.

"The fans have supported us since the beginning," Cavaleiro stated. "I think they liked the way we played against Millwall, and with this quality we're showing it's normal that the fans are happy with us. We must continue with this and keep making them happy.

"We have difficult games coming and I think with this attitude, like I said, we can win games. We respect Millwall, we respect Nottingham Forest, but every game we play we go to win."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/22/ivan-cavaleiro-millwall-reaction

Fulham: Fans praise team after dazzling display against Millwall

Fulham fans were left in pure delight after last night's 4-0 win over Millwall, which saw Scott Parker's team fully dominate the Lions in a one-sided contest at Craven Cottage.

Apart from brushing their opponents aside on the scoreline, the Whites were in total control of proceedings, even setting a Championship record by ending the evening with 84.5% of the possession.

And following Ivan Cavaleiro's double, Anthony Knockaert's first goal for the club and a customary goal for Aleksandar Mitrovic from the penalty spot, plenty of fans were bending over backwards after a pleasing performance that saw the team win their third game in a row and finish the night third in the table.

The result has certainly upped hopes of promotion come the season's end as the team recorded their first London derby win in 11 attempts.

Supporters were clearly encouraged by the nature of the victory, with some fans even predicting a title win on the back of such a commanding performance:



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham/fulham-fans-praise-team-after-dazzling-display-against-millwall/

Anthony Knockaert sends passionate message to Fulham fans after 4-0 win over Millwall

Anthony Knockaert has sent a message to Fulham fans on social media after scoring his first goal for the club in the 4-0 win over Millwall in the Championship last night.

Fulham continued their encouraging start to the new season with a thoroughly convincing win at Craven Cottage – thanks to goals from Knockaert, Ivan Cavaleiro and Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Cavaleiro opened the scoring for Fulham with a spectacular strike from just inside the box, before Knockaert doubled their advantage with a stooping header – his first goal for the Whites since joining on a season-long loan from Brighton.

Mitrovic made it 3-0 with his third goal in as many games, smashing the ball in from the penalty spot after he had been fouled by Millwall 'keeper Bartosz Bialkowski, before Cavaleiro rounded off the victory in fine style.

After the game, Knockaert sent a message to Fulham fans on his personal Instagram account, expressing his joy at scoring his first goal for the club.

Knockaert wrote: "What a night at Craven Cottage ... happy to score my first goal for the club! Support was class today from our fans! See you on Saturday, my people".

Fulham have now won three consecutive games in the Championship and are up to third in the league table on goal difference, one point behind leaders Leeds and second-placed Swansea.

The Verdict

I'm sure Knockaert would have been delighted to score his first goal for Fulham last night and it will give his confidence a huge boost.

Knockaert was magnificent the last time he was in the Championship with Brighton and I think he'll turn out to be a fantastic signing for Fulham.

In Knockaert, Cavaleiro and Mitrovic, Fulham have arguably got the biggest attacking threat in the entire Championship.

They're more than capable of demolishing teams like they did against Millwall last night and they've got a great chance of challenging for automatic promotion this term.

After a disappointing start against Barnsley, Fulham have now recorded three straight wins in the Championship and will be full of confidence going into their next game against Nottingham Forest at the weekend.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/anthony-knockaert-sends-passionate-message-to-fulham-fans-after-4-0-win-over-millwall/

Fulham: Fans react as Rui Fonte leaves to join Braga

Fulham supporters bid farewell to Rui Fonte on Wednesday night, after the Portuguese striker sealed a move to Braga, as confirmed on their official website.

It secures a return to the club for Fonte, who last played for the Portuguese outfit at the start of the 2017/18 campaign prior to his switch to Fulham, but after making just 29 appearances for the club (having spent last year on loan at Lille), his time at Craven Cottage is now at an end – and some fans have wished him well as he departs for his homeland.

He may have only scored three times in Fulham colours, but supporters still seem dismayed by the forward's exit, with plenty noting his work rate and professionalism – as well as the likeable character of the 29-year-old.

With the announcement of his sale coming barely hours after Fulham's impressive 4-0 victory over Millwall in the Championship, the news had ended the evening on something of a sour note for some supporters.

However, his departure did allow fans the opportunity to thank Fonte for his service as a Fulham player:



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham/fulham-fans-react-as-rui-fonte-leaves-to-join-braga/

'Going to be a club legend' – Outpour of love from some Fulham fans for in-form player

Fulham are beginning to hit their stride in the Championship and Aleksandar Mitrovic is living up to the hype that he could be the Championship's top goalscorer this season.

The Serbian is loving life at Craven Cottage too, and his decision to stay at the club – which seemed unlikely at one point – is proving to be the right call.

After Fulham's 4-0 win over Millwall, in which Mitrovic scored his third goal in four league games, the striker took to Instagram to post a photo of his partner and son, expressing his enjoyment at how the match went.

The 24-year-old has played for The Cottagers for 18 months and appears settled at the club, which is important given his contract runs until 2024.

Scott Parker has done well to keep him happy and likely promised him a transfer once he helped the club achieve promotion – an aim they already look on course to achieve.

If they do reach the Premier League then it is very likely Mitrovic will prolong his stay, and Fulham fans would be delighted to see that – as evidenced by their responses on Instagram.

follow_fulham_away: "Love you Mitro"

chester_______: "Awesome Mitro. Gonna be a club legend!"

tommybarrs: "So did us fans mate. Great performance by the team. Now bring on Saturday. #MitrosOnFire"

ed_diskord: "Mitro!!!!!!"

spencerbrightey: "My hero"

sammysteero: "I love you Sir Mitro!!!"

john_whitehouse: "Can't put into words how much I love you"



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/going-to-be-a-club-legend-outpour-of-love-from-some-fulham-fans-for-in-form-player/

Why beating Fulham is more important than overcoming Derby County for Nottingham Forest

In his latest column, Reds legend Garry Birtles explains why three points at Craven Cottage is so important for Forest...

What a couple of games Nottingham Forest have got to look forward to over the next few days, starting with a visit to Craven Cottage on Saturday before the small matter of Derby on Tuesday.

They've set themselves up nicely with a hardworking point at Charlton on Wednesday night - a game where they showed no shortage of character to earn a positive result.

Many fans will be looking ahead to the Carabao Cup meeting with the Rams, but, for me, if I had to pick, I'd want three points over Fulham first and foremost.

It goes without saying that beating Derby is important – and I'd love nothing more than to keep hold of the Brian Clough Trophy.

We also know it can give momentum to a season, even at this stage, while if there was a chance of adding some extra pressure to them, then great. However, the quest for Championship points is more pressing.

Beating Derby won't get you into the Premier League, overcoming Fulham might just help you on the path to do just that.

Of course, in an ideal world Sabri Lamouchi's Reds would win both games and we'd head into the final game before the first international break of the season in fine fettle and, most likely, sitting pretty inside the top six.

The next few days are huge for the manager, especially if he can pull out a result at Craven Cottage – taking anything from that into Tuesday will be massive, though, as I say, the key is to forget Derby for now, let the fans worry about that and focus on Saturday.

Garry Birtles was in conversation with Barry Cooper



https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/sport-opinion/beating-fulham-more-important-overcoming-3238580

Wolves: Fans want Ivan Cavaleiro back after wonder goal for Fulham

On-loan Wolves winger Ivan Cavaleiro was at the forefront of Fulham's 4-0 win over Millwall last night, scoring twice as the Cottagers moved up to third in the Championship.

His first goal on the quarter-hour mark was superb, the 25-year-old cutting inside past two opponents before unleashing a powerful drive into the top corner of the visitors' net, and a video of the goal was posted on the @TalkingWolves Twitter channel.

Cavaleiro also scored the fourth goal for Fulham to round off a comprehensive home win for Scott Parker's team, as well as setting up fellow loanee Anthony Knockaert for the Cottagers' second goal of the night. [via BBC]

The Portugal winger now has three goals inside a week for Fulham, having also netted in last Friday's 2-1 win away to Huddersfield.

He has already matched his tally of league goals from last season, when 17 of his 23 Premier League appearances came as a substitute, and is only two goals away from equalling his tally for all competitions in 2018/19.

Cavaleiro signed for Wolves in 2016 when they were in the Championship but was allowed to join Fulham on loan this summer after struggling to get into the first XI last season.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/wolves/wolves-fans-want-ivan-cavaleiro-back-after-wonder-goal-for-fulham/

Harry Arter makes Fulham revelation


Midfielder Harry Arter says that he wants to stay at Fulham beyond the end of the season, but that that will only be possible if the club wins promotion to the Premier League in the current campaign.

Arter joined Fulham on a season-long loan from Bournemouth in the final week of the summer transfer window, and has featured in all three of club's league games since joining, with Fulham picking up maximum points from those matches.

Speaking after his side's 4-0 thrashing of Millwall on Wednesday night, Arter confirmed that he is already thinking about extending his stay at Craven Cottage, although that will depend on whether or not the club's push for promotion back to the Premier League is successful.

Talking to the Evening Standard, Arter said: "I don't know what people think the deal is, but for me the only way that I can definitely stay next year is if we get promoted.

"So I am desperate to go up, for me personally of course because I want to spend the next few years here. So promotion and staying is definitely in my mind of course."

Reflecting on his time at Fulham so far, the midfielder added: "I've settled in really well. I've been coming to watch Fulham for the last five or six years so I kind of felt like a part of the club before I even joined. So that side of things has been easy."

Having now won three games on bounce, Fulham currently sit third in the early Championship standings with nine points from their opening four games of the league campaign.

Scott Parker's side are next in action when they host Nottingham Forest at Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon.

The Verdict

This is an interesting one.

Given the impact Arter has made during his brief time at the club so far, you do feel as though Fulham too will be keen to keep the midfielder at Craven Cottage beyond the end of the season.

This therefore puts added pressure on the club to get that promotion this season, with plenty already tipping them for a quick return to the Premier League.

Considering how they have started the campaign, it does appear as though Fulham are in a strong position to convert those expectations, and strengthen their chances of keeping Arter at the club in the process.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/harry-arter-makes-fulham-revelation/

'Nice training session for the lads' – Plenty of Fulham fans react to impressive victory

Fulham comfortably dispatched Millwall on Wednesday night, as Ivan Cavaleiro scored a brace to ensure a 4-0 victory.

According to Opta, Fulham recorded the highest possession figure since Opta began full collection of statistics in the English Championship. They completed 934 passes, with 84.5% being the end possession.

It was a surprisingly easy win for the Cottagers as they ended Millwall's unbeaten run that they had at the start of the season.

Fulham moved up to third as they earned their 3rd win in four games. It has been a good start to the season for Scott Parker despite suffering defeat on the opening day against Championship newcomers Barnsley.

With forwards such as Aleksandar Mitrovic, Ivan Cavaleiro and Anthony Knockaert, Parker has an abundance of talent at his disposal. All three scored on Wednesday night and have the potential to be one of the best strike forces in the Championship.

Here's how the White's supporters reacted to the stunning victory...



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/nice-training-session-for-the-lads-plenty-of-fulham-fans-react-to-impressive-victory/

Johnny Haynes Trophy Winner 2019


The Fulham Supporters' Trust was last night proud to present the Johnny Haynes Trophy to Tyrese Francois as the inaugural winner of the Fulham Supporters' Trust Academy Player of the Year.

The presentation took place on the pitch at half time during Fulham's exciting 4-0 victory over Millwall. Trust Chair Tom Greatrex, Treasurer Owen Smith and Board Member Chris Gilbertson joined Academy Director Huw Jennings for the presentation.

Francois received his award alongside Connor McAvoy, who was named Fulham's Premier League Scholar of the Year.

The Johnny Haynes Trophy will be awarded annually to Fulham's Academy Player of the Year, voted on by Academy staff and players across the Under-16 to Under-23 age groups. 

Chris Gilbertson

    Supporting the work Fulham do at academy level is of key importance to the Trust, and by creating and sponsoring this award we hope to provide a small token of inspiration to future generations of Fulham Academy players.

    With two products of the Fulham Academy shining for the First Team last night, the Trust is delighted to be able to support and help to showcase the exemplary work being done by Huw Jennings and his staff.

Speaking to the club's official website, Huw Jennings said

    We've had really good relations with the Fulham Supporters' Trust who have been very proactive in trying to promote our work.

    Huw Jennings, Fulham FC Academy Director

Australian central midfielder Francois, 19, becomes the first recipient of the Johnny Haynes Trophy.  A technically gifted player, he featured extensively for the Whites during preseason, starting against Cambridge United and Oxford United and featuring from the bench in all but one of the other fixtures.

Jennings told fulhamfc.com

    This is great for Tyrese who shows an exemplary attitude and works hard to give his maximum. It's pleasing that Tyrese embodies the key virtues we promote here of hard-work, honesty and humility.

    Huw Jennings, Fulham FC Academy Director



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2019/08/johnny-haynes-trophy-winner-2019/

Podcast: SuperCaviGoesBallisticMillwallAreAtrocious

What a night at the Cottage, as Fulham broke all records during their 4-0 win over Millwall. 85% possession and nearly 1000 passes in a dizzying display from Scott Parkers men. We look at all the key talking points including Cavaleiro's exceptional finishing, Steven Sess impressing again and Knockaert getting off the mark.

Later in the episode we discuss Rui Fonte's departure back to Braga and look ahead briefly to this weekend's Nottingham Forest game.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/podcast/2019-08-22-supercavigoesballisticmillwallareatrocious/

Neil Harris makes big Fulham claim

Millwall manager Neil Harris has claimed that Fulham are the best side to play in the Championship since the Wolves team that charged to the Championship title in the 2017/18 season.

Harris' side were on the wrong end of a 4-0 thrashing at Craven Cottage on Wednesday night, with a double from Ivan Cavaleiro, along with a goal from Anthony Knockaert and a penalty from Aleksandar Mitrovic secured a third straight win for Scott Parker's side.

During the game, Fulham enjoyed 84.5% of the possession, which is the most by any side since Opta began collecting their records at this level during the 2013/14 campaign.

As well as that, the hosts also completed 934 successful passes on Wednesday, and Harris was full of praise for the performance of the opposition following his side's defeat.

Speaking to the South London Press after the game, the Millwall boss said: "Firstly, congratulations to Fulham.

"I thought they were magnificent tonight, certainly the best performance I have seen since Wolves got 100 points a couple of years ago to go up.

"I think Fulham fans will watch tonight and think what are we doing in this division, we should be in the Premier League. That is down to them."

Despite that, Harris still thought his side could have performed better, as he added: "But as good as they were, I think we gave them a leg up at times. Not so much the goals we conceded, but the lead up to the goals.

"When they cut through us, no problem with that. We could have defended slightly better, the last two really hurt me because we gave the ball back cheaply.

"But I won't judge my players on tonight's performance and result against a top Fulham side because we don't get up there when we win and we won't get down there when we are beat 4-0 by Fulham because there will be a lot of teams that come here and get beat 4-0 like we did."

Comparing Fulham to other team's his Millwall side have faced, Harris concluded by claiming: "They caused us the most problems as a team – other than probably Tottenham in the FA Cup quarter-finals – that I have faced during my time in charge."

The Verdict

This is quite a compliment for Fulham.

Wolves were not far off unstoppable during that title-winning campaign of two seasons ago, and being compared to such a team will surely be a huge boost to their confidence going forward.

Looking at those stats, you can certainly understand the claims that Harris has made here, and there will be plenty of other sides who are unlikely to be looking forward to facing Scott Parker's side now.

Having been one of those tipped for promotion before the start of the campaign, the fact that Fulham have started so encouragingly will only be a big relief for their fans, and you feel that, worryingly for the rest of the division, things will only get better for them as their new signings start to gel further with the rest of their teammates.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/neil-harris-makes-big-fulham-claim/

Fulham provide interesting Aleksandar Mitrovic insight in wake of latest triumph

Fulham comprehensively beat Millwall last night, with Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic bagging his third goal of the season in a 4-0 win.

The forward has been an integral part of the Cottagers' side for two seasons now, as he looks to mount yet another promotion challenge.

Fulham were relegated from the Premier League last season alongside Huddersfield and Cardiff.

Scott Parker has brought in Anthony Knockaert and Ivan Cavaleiro as support for the 24-year-old, and they have got off to a good start in the Championship winning three out of their opening four matches. All three forwards scored against Millwall on Wednesday night in the emphatic victory.

Mitrovic is known for his competitive edge during his fixtures, as he knows how to push other side's limits.

The striker was on the pitch with one of his two children on Wednesday night and showed that the physical nature of his game doesn't just apply for professionals.

Fulham captured the former Newcastle United centre-forward slide-tackling his own child. The Instagram image is below.

The club captioned the image with 'no chill', which is spot on when talking about Mitrovic. The striker often likes to play on the edge, which always makes him one to watch. If his kid has even half of the ability that his dad possesses then he'll be a decent footballer.

The striker was part of an impressive Fulham side last night that achieved 84.5% possession against, what was, an unbeaten Millwall side. Parker will be hoping that the type of form they have been showing since the opening day loss against Barnsley continues.

Fulham host Nottingham Forest on Saturday looking to make it four wins from five, and attempt to break into the automatic promotion places.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-provide-interesting-aleksandar-mitrovic-insight-in-wake-of-latest-triumph/

The Flag

Craven Cottage's newest hospitality space, The Flag, opens its doors to supporters for the first time next Friday!

A fan-inspired bar which pays homage to the 140 year history of London's original football club, located in the Johnny Haynes Stand, the former press room has been transformed to reveal the stunning architecture of the Grade II listed site.

Walls are adorned with imagery and artefacts which visualise and demonstrate the Club's long and rich journey, including memorabilia and moments from some of Fulham's greatest matches.

Watch Cardiff City v Fulham in The Flag

Supporters will be able to watch a screening of Fulham's league fixture against Cardiff City on Friday 30th August (kick-off 7:45pm) in The Flag. With doors open from 6pm, a limited number of spaces are available to purchase today for just £10, which includes a complimentary drink and hot food item.

Fans looking to attend the launch event can purchase their space online now, by phone on 0203 841 9057 or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office. This event is for over 18's only.

Buy Screening Tickets

The perfect space for Fulham fans to meet, The Flag also makes for a special venue to be hired for birthdays, meetings and private events. For further information on how you can experience The Flag, please call 0203 841 9057 or email [email protected].




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/22/the-flag

'It suits all parties' – Fulham player set to depart Craven Cottage: The verdict

This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Following an opening day defeat to Barnsley, Fulham have now made it three wins in a row, the latest being the 4-0 dismantling of Millwall midweek, a result that took the Cottagers up to third in the table, just a point behind early pace-setters Leeds United and Swansea City.

One player though who will not play a part for Fulham manager Scott Parker is attacker Rui Fonte, who is set for a permanent move to Portuguese side Braga, as reported by Portuguese media outlet A Bola, his second spell at the Primeira Liga side.

So is it the right move by Fulham to offload Fonte?

We discuss........

Toby Wilding

"I think this probably is the right move.

"Fonte's record at Fulham – just three goals in 28 games – just doesn't suggest that he is really going to be able to make the required impact that they need as they look to compete for promotion this season.

"It seems therefore that a move back to Braga should suit Fonte as well, given he should be confident of enjoying more regular opportunities now he is back in Portugal.

"Given the way Fulham have started the season, and with the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic, Anthony Knockaert and Ivan Cavaleiro amongst their options, I can't really see Fulham missing him particularly either."

Chrs Gallagher

"Without a doubt, it suits all parties.

"The forward arrived at Craven Cottage with a good reputation but for whatever reasons things just haven't gone to plan for him at all, with three goals in 27 games just not good enough.

"He will have been commanding a fairly big salary and he is nowhere near the team with Scott Parker preferring one up top and the club have Aleksandar Mitrovic and Bobby Reid to pick from.

"So, he was not going to get near the XI and whilst they have taken a hit in terms of what they paid for him, it makes sense from a financial perspective to shift him from the wage bill. Fonte will be viewed as one of many expensive flops that the club have had in recent years."

George Harbey

"I think it's definitely the best move for parties for Fonte to make the move back to Portugal.

"He arrived at Craven Cottage with high expectations placed upon his shoulders after being a prolific goalscorer in the Liga NOS, but it just didn't work out for him at all.

"He scored just three goals for Fulham in all competitions, he is approaching the wrong side of 30 years of age, and he just wasn't going to get a game under Scott Parker this season.

"They have so much quality going forward, especially in Aleksandar Mitrovic up top, so it's hardly a departure to worry about from a Fulham perspective."



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/it-suits-all-parties-fulham-player-set-to-depart-craven-cottage-the-verdict/

Tom Cairney and Anthony Knockaert both noticed something about Fulham's win over Millwall

Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney and winger Anthony Knockaert have both taken to social media to react to the stats from their 4-0 win over Millwall in the Championship last night.

Scott Parker's side continued their encouraging start to the season with a magnificent team performance and a thoroughly convincing victory at Craven Cottage – thanks to goals from Knockaert, Ivan Cavaleiro and Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Cavaleiro gave the hosts a deserved lead after 15 minutes with a spectacular effort from just inside the box, before setting up Knockaert to head in his first Fulham goal.

Mitrovic increased their advantage with his third goal in as many games with a second-half penalty, before Cairney set up Cavaleiro, who rounded the Millwall goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski to complete the scoring in fine style.

Fulham completely dominated the game and thoroughly deserved their victory, which sees them move up to third in the Championship table on goal difference.

According to Opta, Fulham had a remarkable 84.5% possession and completed 934 passes, the highest in the Championship since Opta started collecting full stats from the second tier in 2013/14.

Cairney and Knockaert have both reacted to the stats on social media by posting messages on their respective Instagram stories.

The Verdict

It was an outstanding performance from Fulham last night and the stats from the game show just how much of a dominant display it was. It was a magnificent team performance and they were simply unplayable at times.

Fulham have got some very talented players and have got arguably the biggest attacking threat in the Championship with Knockaert, Cavaleiro and Mitrovic in their side.

They're always going to be capable of scoring goals and if they continue to play like that, they've got every chance of challenging for automatic promotion this season.

After a disappointing start to the season against Barnsley, Fulham have now recorded three consecutive victories and will go into their next game against Nottingham Forest at the weekend full of confidence.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/tom-cairney-and-anthony-knockaert-both-noticed-something-about-fulhams-win-over-millwall/

3 advantages to Fulham off-loading this fringe player

It is confirmed Fulham striker Rui Fonte has left Craven Cottage for SC Braga.

It's reported a deal is close to being agreed, which will consist of Fonte returning to his former team on a free transfer and Fulham receiving 30% of any future transfer fee.

Fonte scored three goals and supplied five assists for Fulham in twenty-nine appearances. Fonte was deemed surplus to requirements last season, by joining Lille on loan where he scored one goal in twenty appearances and has been again this year.

With such a fringe player leaving Craven Cottage, there are key advantages to this potential deal.

Not needed squad member

The main benefit for Fulham is that they have been able to get a deal for a fringe player that was taking up an important squad place and wages. After the debacle last season, off-loading any unneeded wage bills will be an important part to the rest of Fulham's transfer window manoeuvres.

In addition to removing his wages, Scott Parker now has one less player to concern himself with in the attacking areas. With Ivan Cavalerio, Anthony Knockaert, Bobby Reid, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Aboubakar Kamara all ahead of him, there was little point to keeping Fonte on their books.

Additional financing help

While there is no transfer fee involved, the 30% sell-on fee clause is a good supplement to have if the club needs any additional financial help in the future.

The wastage of £100m last year will cause an astronomical effect on their finances if they do not get promotion in the next 2-3 years. If the worst happens, and Braga sells Fonte again, the sell-on clause could prove to be pivotal.

Youth

Another advantage to Fulham allow Fonte to leave is it will open a squad space for any youth player that may impress manager Scott Parker.

In the early rounds of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, managers tend to rotate their team to avoid injuries and give game time to players who the manager feels deserves a chance. By off-loading Fonte, it could open a space for a youth player to impress Parker and break into the team.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-advantages-to-fulham-off-loading-this-fringe-player/

Fulham: Fans call for Calum Chambers return as defender watches Millwall win

Plenty of Fulham fans were left calling for a former player's return after Calum Chambers was spotted in the stands at Craven Cottage during the team's thumping 4-0 victory at home to Millwall on Wednesday evening.

The Whites' dominant performance may have caught the eye on a superb night of football under the lights, though fans' attention was switched to the discovery of last year's Player of the Season watching on, thanks to a post from the club's Twitter account during half-time.

Chambers looked on as Fulham racked up 88% of the possession by the interval, but fans were wanting more, with plenty demanding the club make a move for the Arsenal centre-back and reinstall him to the Fulham squad.

Plenty of Fulham fans were left calling for a former player's return after Calum Chambers was spotted in the stands at Craven Cottage during the team's thumping 4-0 victory at home to Millwall on Wednesday evening.

The Whites' dominant performance may have caught the eye on a superb night of football under the lights, though fans' attention was switched to the discovery of last year's Player of the Season watching on, thanks to a post from the club's Twitter account during half-time.

Chambers looked on as Fulham racked up 88% of the possession by the interval, but fans were wanting more, with plenty demanding the club make a move for the Arsenal centre-back and reinstall him to the Fulham squad.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham/fulham-fans-call-for-calum-chambers-return-as-defender-watches-millwall-win/

Five Thoughts: Fulham 4-0 Millwall

Statement received loud and crystal clear, Fulham are not here to screw around. Neil Harris' high-flying Millwall were unbeaten before their trip across south-London on Wednesday night but deary, deary me, Scott Parker's men pulled their cacks down and howled gloatingly at their *ahem* 'pride'.

---

Was that more exhilarating than Slavisa Jokanovic's class of 2017-18? Yes, and there is no debate. We're only four games in and I don't give a damn, that was a different gear, a whole other thickness of sauce. Dominant, fearless, cocksure, the Whites sliced and diced the Lions, reducing them to low fat kibble.

This prepares us nicely for Nottingham Forest on Saturday, a sterner test indeed, but a meeting at the Cottage where we can switch on the style and crank it up to eleven, almost like an after party at 4 in the morning with a stonking hangover. Well, we did just win a "London derby" at a canter, after all.

Fulham's Formulated Football
Anyone saying Scott Parker can't hack it at this level is a certified fraud and needs to sit down for a breather. Fulham, against an in-form Millwall, caressed the ball across the surface as though it was made of silk, and the calculated manner in which we monopolised virtually every second of the encounter was truly mesmeric. That feeble defeat on the opening day at Oakwell feels like it was last season's problem.

From front to back, side to side, the Whites measured their harmonic approach and bushwhacked with ruthless consequences. Lengthy, considerate spells lulled the visitors into an entranced state of vulnerability, and as Tom Cairney and co. unhinged the visitors' flimsy grip on proceedings, travelling backsides were braced for a frenzied paddling. For a squad with so many fresh faces, the collective understanding between each department is practically flawless.

Our fossilised DNA as a dynamic, enchanting footballing machine has seemingly been salvaged and the Championship best be ready for a vicious mauling. Millwall, to their credit, fought tooth and nail to stem our fluidity but we swept them into the Thames with a deluge of indomitable sequences. Now, I'm not usually one for stats (I'll leave that to George Singer and the gang) but in the first half, we clasped 89% possession, at full-time, 85%. Millwall completed 173 passes throughout, Fulham accumulated 991. Nearly 1,000 passes. That's stupefying. Los Negros y los Blancos – more catchy than FC Barcelona's Blaugrana.

Consummate Cav's Class
That dip of the shoulder's accompanied by deafening klaxons for opposing 'keepers and Bartosz Białkowski would have been left with a terrible ringing in his ears in the dressing room. Cav' notched a consummate brace at the Poland international's sorry expense and is soaring in a Fulham jersey, and I think we can all nod heads when I claim that he's revelling in a class of his own in SW6.

Unlike his predecessors, the 25-year-old will graft inexhaustibly and he wasn't afraid to throw his weight around, especially whilst barging Connor Mahoney and Mahlon Romeo into touch. Undeterred on the ball, Cav' jinked his way through numerous obstacles and rotated the ball effectively, and once he'd moved possession, he'd scamper into a vacant pocket, acting as a constant outlet for his teammates to appropriate.

Cav' floated across the breadth of the front three and camped on Millwall's idle rearguard. Anticipating a penetrative through balls, the auxiliary marksman would spring into action, praying on the Dockers' listless responsiveness. Wednesday evening's outing comprised a vintage Cavaleiro performance, emulative of his enterprise at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Millwall simply couldn't leash the animated Portuguese winger, and I imagine there's not many fullbacks, if any, in the Championship that are equipped to cope with his virility in the final third. Long may his astonishing form continue.

Knockaert's Deadly Custom
Wind him up, set him down and watch him go. Do not stray into Anthony Knockaert's path if you've riled him, he'll only shred your career to tatters. Cautioned for a slight outburst in the 25th minute, the Frenchman was meant to be walking a tightrope, but he was only just getting into his unwavering stride.

A customary wiggle of the hips combined with a swift step over amounted in countless explosive spurts into advantageous quadrants, leaving Murray Wallace dead in his tracks. Deploying a variety of enticing crosses into the 18-yard box, the 27-year-old promised opportunities to bulge the net, and as the season progresses, many a strike will be registered directly from his frequent supply line.

He's was a ferocious handful, Millwall's nemesis, and an expertly diverted header to double Fulham's lead in the 32nd minute was wholly warranted. His temperament could hinder the Whites in future meetings, but if he can channel his energy proficiently without rubbing officials up the wrong way, he'll run amok at this level. Yep, we have a terrifying front three and we have two AKs. One misfires, the other executes in site.

Supreme Sess' Shines
In a team crammed with verified ballers, Steven Sessegnon slots right into place. They'll be times when the Sess' naivety's unmasked this term, that's a given for such a raw talent, but against the intense power of Jiri Skalak and Shane Ferguson, the 19-year-old conducted himself admirably yet again. Millwall could have gnawed the youngster to a fleshy pulp, but this pup has his own set of teeth and he ain't bothered about nibbling back.

What we saw was an inexperienced novice excel where he had no right to do so. He's fresh off the conveyor belt, impressionable, but he stood up to the challenge of another gruelling Championship test with two raised fingers. Charging in support of Cav', hitting the byline to dig out crosses, overpowering fully grown men to prise possession, Sess' was irrepressible.

Nothing seemed to faze him. Usually an aspiring professional of his age would snatch simple passes, bulk at physical disputes and tire mentally towards the latter stages, but Sess' was exempt to all of those defects. Like his brother, he has an exalted reputation and his locker's brimming with technique, determination and expectation. Ladies and gentlemen, we have found our rightful right-back and that is not a premature statement.

Ream Reinforces Routine
Fair enough, his first touch is still a little rusty, but I was hugely impressed with Tim Ream, our resident American general that's certainly at home in the relative modesty of the Championship. Propping up Scotty's spine, Ream effectively held Fulham's core composition together. Where the 31-year-old ventured, Alfie Mawson followed in close contention and, subsequently, so did Sess' and Joe Bryan.

Ream placed Tom Bradshaw in his pocket and kept him under quarantine for the duration. Nothing would breach Fulham's back four, not under his command. Aerially, Ream was first to plant bonce to ball and on the deck, with a multitude of options to pick and choose from, the observant centre-half ensured that possession reached its intended destination without delay.

Millwall relied on aimless long balls and Ream sussed their predictability. Parker is adamant that playing out from the back is necessary and Ream was a convincing advocate to the club's possession-based philosophy. Aware of responsibilities, the trusted enforcer wasted no time in administering the ball in a rational, routine manner. Ream's patience was paramount as it enabled the Whites to construct intimidating sequences without compromise. Paolo Maldini, Carlos Puyol and Brede Hangeland give you their blessing, Tim.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2019-08-22-five-thoughts-fulham-4-0-millwall/

Unsung Hero: Tom Cairney vital to Fulham despite not scoring

Fulham's display against Millwall has won the Whites all sorts of praise – be it from Scott Parker, the adoring fans or even opposition manager Neil Harris.

Parker's men played the Lions off the park at Craven Cottage, dominating the possession and passing statistics in record-breaking style on their way to notching their third successive win.

Ivan Cavaleiro's double gave the on-loan winger a third goal in two games after his match-winning strike against Huddersfield Town on Friday, while Anthony Knockaert scored his first in a Fulham shirt before Aleksandar Mitrovic grabbed his third of the season from the penalty spot.

But with Fulham putting on a show for the fans under the lights, it was the man with the armband that may have been underappreciated for his part in the Whites' commanding victory.

Tom Cairney, who capped his last home appearance with his beauty of a strike against Blackburn Rovers, was very much conductor-in-chief for last night's performance.

His performance adds to the midfielder's impressive start to the campaign, with his tally of goals and assists already surpassing that of last season's after a brace of assists that led to Cavaleiro's double – the latter of which being a perfectly-lofted through-pass over the Millwall defence before the Portuguese rounded the goalkeeper to add further gloss to the scoreline.

The team also reached a pass success rate of 94% – helped in no small part by Cairney's individual total of 98.2%, which is no mean feat for the 28-year-old having achieved a higher percentage in the win over Huddersfield last weekend.

So while Cairney was not able to put his own name up in lights by getting in on the act during the Fulham rout, there's little denying his influential performance judging by his individual accomplishments on the night.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/features/unsung-heroes/unsung-hero-why-tom-cairney-was-captain-fantastic-for-fulham-during-millwall-victory/

Quote from: whitejc on August 23, 2019, 08:06:45 AM
Fulham fans laud Steven Sessegnon after solid showing in Millwall win

The youngster was once again impressive at right-back for Scott Parker's team.

(https://tbrfootball.com/static/uploads/2019/08/GettyImages-1169534888.jpg)

(Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Fulham completed a display of total dominance in their 4-0 win over Millwall at Craven Cottage last night. The Cottagers finished the game with a staggering 84.5% possession (The Telegraph).

Very few games at Championship level play out in a situation that resembles men against boys, but this was an exception.

Scott Parker's team completely smashed the sorry Lions and on this form, they will take some stopping in their quest for promotion this season.

Fulham's goals last night came courtesy of an Ivan Cavaleiro brace, Anthony Knockaert and an Aleksandar Mitrovic penalty.

Amid a plethora of attacking talent, it is perhaps one of Fulham's defensive performers who is pleasantly surprising supporters at the moment.

Stephen Sessegnon is the younger brother of Ryan who recently left Craven Cottage to join Tottenham. He has started the last two games at right-back and looked comfortable on both occasions.

Following the game he tweeted his delight at getting more minutes on the pitch and ultimately another three points:

Sessegnon has risen through the Fulham ranks and will hope to become a first-team regular this season.

Parker has trusted him to play in the early stages of the campaign and on current form he could become a permanent fixture in the team.

Following his latest display, supporters were keen to tweet Sessegnon to heap praise on the youngster.

Here is a selection of tweets regarding the performance of the 19-year-old:



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-stephen-sessegnon/

Usual lazy journalism.........or was he born a few seconds after Ryan?  :005: