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3 qualities that Southampton can expect from Fulham ace if deal is completed

Southampton have joined Watford in the pursuit of Fulham's Joe Bryan, but what can Saints fans expect from the full-back?

Football Insider reported that Southampton are readying a £7 million bid for the 26-year-old. The Saints have recently turned their fortunes around in the Premier League under Ralph Hasenhuttl, but have been in need of a left-sided defender all season.

Watford first showed an interest in Bryan at the start of the month but are yet to make an official approach to the club, and now Southampton look to be the favourites to land him.

He's a reliable player for Fulham, having joined from Bristol City in the summer of 2018. He was one of the few Fulham players who earned any praise at all in their relegation campaign last season, though he's come under some scrutiny from fans this time round.

Nevertheless, he remains a talented player and now he's a wanted man – here's three qualities that Southampton fans can expect to see from him if he joins:

Overlapping runs
Bryan is like a loft of modern full-backs, and loves to get forward. He's blessed with a good deal of pace and a sweet left peg making him a creative force for Fulham. Though fans haven't seen too much of that this season, they still hold him in high-regards.

Parker likes to play with four at the back. When there's five in defence and the full-backs become wing-backs, that's when a player like Bryan is most effective – his defensive capabilities have been exposed somewhat this season, and it's arguably down to playing as part of a back-four.

Consistency
If Bryan if anything, he's consistent. He's a typical full-back who'll plug in and do a job no matter what the occasion. At 26-years-old he's already amassed nearly 300 carer games with Bristol City and Fulham, and in loan-spells with Bath City and Plymouth Argyle too.

Southampton, in the position that they are, could so with some consistency. Bryan proved last season that he's capable of maintaining his level in the top-flight (he was arguably better in the Premier League for Fulham than he is in the Championship), and that alone should be enough for Hasenhuttl to complete the move.

Energy
Bryan seems to buzz around the pitch. He's such an energetic character when he's on the pitch and his work-rate is up there with the best at Craven Cottage. It ties in again with consistency, but Bryan always gives it his all when he plays for Fulham.

£7 million is a lot of money in the Championship and fans would probably take that for Bryan. They'd be sad to see him go, he remains one of their first names on the team-sheet, but they've got some ready replacements waiting and Parker would likely want that money to go back into the team.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-qualities-that-southampton-can-expect-from-fulham-ace-if-deal-is-completed/

Fulham sign Archer and look to clinch Kongolo deal

Fulham are in talks to sign defender Terence Kongolo from Huddersfield Town on loan for the rest of the season and have signed Jordan Archer as a back-up goalkeeper.

Netherlands international, Kongolo, 25, was signed by Huddersfield from Monaco in June 2018 for a reported £18m and is under contract until 2022.

But he has fallen out of favour under Terriers boss Danny Cowley and has not played since November.

Kongolo, who previously won the Dutch title with Feyenoord, can operate at left-back or centre-back.

Fulham have made an approach for him amid interest in Whites defender Joe Bryan from Southampton and Watford.

Archer, 26, has been signed on a contract until the end of the season with the option of a further year.

He was a free agent following a recent short spell at Oxford United and previously made 144 league appearances for Millwall.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/football-fulham-looking-to-clinch-signing-of-kongolo-updated-jordan-archer

Report: Saints step up interest in 26 y/o fullback after Champions League side makes enquiry

Southampton have kicked up their interest in Fulham defender Joe Bryan as Ralph Hasenhuttl looks to improve the Saints' fullback position this month.

The Daily Mail report that the south coast side have stepped up their pursuit of the Championship defender after Premier League rivals Watford and Serie A club Atalanta submitted enquiries for Bryan, who has been a pivotal player for Scott Parker's team this season.

As stats from WhoScored show, Bryan has been ever-present in Fulham's starting XI this season, with the 26-year-old left-back making 28 appearances in all competitions for the Cottagers, scoring once and assisting another three for the west London side that currently find themselves fourth in the Championship table and seven points off the automatic promotion spots.

Hasenhuttl has publicly admitted that he is interested in signing a fullback this month, with the Austrian manager saying to Sky Sports News: "It is absolutely clear that we must do something with the full-back positions. This is definitely a position we're looking at for the moment and we will do something."

And Bryan could be a suitable signing for the Saints this month with the club actively looking for new players to strengthen the fullback position. As stats from Transfermarkt show, the former Bristol City defender has a solid amount of Premier League experience, playing over 2,000 minutes last season in Fulham's doomed campaign back in the English top-flight.

Competition, though, might be Southampton's biggest obstacle when trying to get a deal done for Bryan, with Atalanta set to play Valencia in the Champions League round of 16 next month in what has been a fairy tale season for the Italian side embarking on their first-ever European campaign.



https://southampton.vitalfootball.co.uk/report-saints-step-up-interest-in-26-y-o-fullback-after-champions-league-side-makes-enquiry/

Fulham closing in on loan swoop to sign 26-y/o defender

Fulham are in advanced talks to sign Huddersfield defender Terence Kongolo on a loan deal until the end of the season, according to Sky Sports Transfer Centre (16/01, 07:51).

Kongolo has fallen out of favour under Huddersfield boss Danny Cowley having now not featured in the side since November, and it appears as though the Terriers are prepared to let the Dutchman leave the club on a temporary basis.

Fulham are now looking to bolster their defensive options ahead of their promotion push in the second half of the campaign, and it is being reported they have turned their attention to Kongolo, who has made a total of 11 appearances this term.

Huddersfield initially signed the defender from Monaco in the summer of 2018 for a then club-record fee believed to be around £18million, but it appears the 25-year-old has struggled to settle in the Championship following his side's relegation last season.

Kongolo, who can play at left-back or centre-back, now looks set to compete with the likes of Alfie Mawson, Michael Hector and Tim Ream for a starting spot in Scott Parker's starting line-up as the fourth-placed side aim for promotion.

The Verdict

This looks like a decent signing given that Kongolo was one of Huddersfield's better performers during their relegation-doomed campaign last term, but his attitude has not been the best since the club's relegation to the second tier.

This has seen Kongolo lose his place in the Terriers' side since Cowley's arrival back in September, which means it seems slightly strange that he is closing in on a move to fellow Championship side Fulham, rather than a Premier League outfit.

However, Kongolo will certainly strengthen the Cottagers' back line during the remainder of the campaign, with the additions of both Hector and Kongolo this window meaning Fulham have no excuse to not challenge for automatic promotion from now on.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-closing-in-on-loan-swoop-to-sign-26-y-o-defender/

Huddersfield Town transfer window: Terence Kongolo talks

Negotiations over loan to Fulham with view to permanent transfer

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Terence Kongolo in Premier League action for Town

Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo looks on the verge of a loan move to Championship rivals Fulham.

Interest in the Dutch international from Craven Cottage has been well documented, although it's been all quiet since the weekend, when Town were defeated 2-1 at Barnsley while fourth-placed Fulham won 1-0 at Hull.

The 25-year-old has been unavailable for Town boss Danny Cowley ahead of the transfer window since the last of his 11 appearances this season in the debacle at Bristol City in November.

Fulham were said to be interested in taking the former Monaco player and now reports in the capital suggests talks are under way towards an initial loan, with a view to a permanent transfer.

Kongolo is Town's record signing at a reported £17.5m and Town will be keen to recoup as much of that as possible for a player who is contracted with them until 2022.



https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-huddersfield-terence-kongolo-talks-17576388

Archer Signs For Fulham

The Club is pleased to confirm the signing of goalkeeper Jordan Archer on a free transfer.


Archer, 26, has agreed a deal that keeps him at Fulham until the end of the season, with the Club holding an option to extend by a further 12 months.

Speaking to the official website, Archer said: "I've been watching a lot of Championship football this year, and Fulham are playing good, attractive football.

"There are top quality players here, so to be a part of this group is something I couldn't turn down."

Tony Khan added: "I'm happy to welcome Jordan to Fulham, adding more depth in this position with a player who has a lot of Championship experience is very positive, and I know he'll get the best welcome from everyone within the Club and in the stands. Come on Fulham!"

After coming through Tottenham Hotspur's academy, Archer sampled first team football during a number of loan spells, before a permanent move to Millwall in the summer of 2015.

Archer immediately established himself as the Lions' number one, winning their player of the season award in his maiden campaign.

The following year he was a key figure in their promotion to the Championship, and he departed the Den at the end of last season having made 166 appearances for the club.

He took in a short term deal with Oxford United recently, securing three clean sheets in six league outings.

Capped at senior level by Scotland, Archer made his international debut in May 2018.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/16/jordan-archer-signs-for-fulham

Archer: Absolute Honour

Jordan Archer needed no convincing when he was made aware of Fulham's interest in his services.

The goalkeeper penned what is initially a short-term contract this week, something he was delighted to get over the line.


When asked what made Craven Cottage such an attractive proposition, he said: "The stature of the Club.

"For years it's been an attractive football club. The Gaffer's come in and got them playing good football, and that's something I want to buy into. When Fulham came in it was a no-brainer.

"I'm buzzing now. I was raring to get it done. I got the call earlier in the week to come in and do the medical.

"It's a fantastic club, I've played against them a few times so I know some of the boys here. This season they're doing well, so it's an absolute honour to be part of it.

"I've been watching a lot of Championship football this year, and Fulham are playing good, attractive football.

"There are top quality players here, so to be a part of this group is something I couldn't turn down."

Having come through Tottenham Hotspur's academy, Archer already knows Scott Parker and Goalkeeping Coach Rob Burch, and he is also well aware of the talent he'll be competing with between the sticks.


"I know Burchy, I worked with him when we were back at Spurs, quite a few years ago when I was a youth team player," he explained.

"I know Scotty Parker – or the Gaffer I should say – as I was a young lad when he was there, so that should help me transition.

"I've played against Betts a few times – he's a top, top 'keeper. I've been watching Fulham this season and Marek's come in and has done a fantastic job as well, so it's a strong group.

"I'm going to add competition to that, and I'm sure we'll bounce off each other."

Archer joins a Fulham side sitting fourth in the league, but he remains confident that his new side can challenge for automatic promotion.

"We've got a strong squad," he stated. "The Championship gets harder every single year. There's a lot of top teams in it and it's a long old season.

"I've played a few seasons in the Championship and teams do have dips in form, but if we can go on a good run and maintain that level, with the quality we've got in the squad, then I've no doubt the boys will be in and around it."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/16/jordan-archer-absolute-honour

Fulham sign Archer

Fulham have this morning confirmed the signing of former Millwall and Oxford United goalkeeper Jordan Archer on a free transfer.

The Scottish international has initially signed a short-term contract until the end of the season, with Fulham holding an option to extend the deal by a further year. The 26 year-old is thought to have been snapped up after longstanding goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli indicated his unhappiness at Craven Cottage having been dropped by Scott Parker.

Archer, who began his career by coming through the ranks at Tottenham Hotspur, established himself at Millwall, making 166 appearances in four years at the New Den and helping the Lions win promotion from the Championship. He was briefly at League One Oxford earlier this term, keeping three clean sheets in six games, and told Fulham's official website that he was delighted to join the club:

    "I've been watching a lot of Championship football this year, and Fulham are playing good, attractive football. There are top quality players here, so to be a part of this group is something I couldn't turn down."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/01/fulham-sign-archer/

Jordan Archer: Fulham sign Scotland and former Millwall goalkeeper

(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/118E9/production/_110531917_shutterstock_editorial_10508924aj.jpg)
Archer arrives from a one-month spell at Oxford United, where he featured in the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Manchester City

Fulham have signed goalkeeper Jordan Archer on a free transfer from Oxford United until the end of the season.

The club have an option to extend the former Millwall keeper's deal by a further 12 months.

"Fulham are playing good, attractive football," the 26-year-old Scotland international told the club website.

"There are top quality players here, so to be a part of this group is something I couldn't turn down."

Archer, a Tottenham Hotspur academy graduate, previously had a successful spell at Millwall, making 166 appearances after signing a permanent deal in 2015.

Last month, he joined League One side Oxford as short-term cover for first-choice keeper Simon Eastwood.

He played eight games in all competitions and kept three clean sheets in six league matches.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51134934

Fulham sign ex-Millwall goalkeeper Jordan Archer on free transfer after Oxford exit

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Returning to London: Former Tottenham and Millwall goalkeeper Jordan Archer ( Getty Images )

Fulham have completed the signing of former Millwall goalkeeper Jordan Archer on a free transfer.

The 26-year-old, who came through the ranks at Tottenham, was released by Millwall in the summer and signed a short-term deal with Oxford in December.

Archer left the League One club following eight games after acting as an emergency injury replacement for Simon Eastwood, but has now joined Fulham.

The Whites have signed the Scotland international until the end of the season, but there is an option to extend his stay by 12 months.

Archer said: "I've been watching a lot of Championship football this year, and Fulham are playing good, attractive football.

"There are top quality players here, so to be a part of this group is something I couldn't turn down."

Chairman and director of football operations Tony Khan added: "I'm happy to welcome Jordan to Fulham, adding more depth in this position with a player who has a lot of Championship experience is very positive, and I know he'll get the best welcome from everyone within the club and in the stands."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-transfer-news-jordan-archer-millwall-a4335916.html

'Could turn out to be somewhat of a coup' – Fulham plot move for Rangers player: 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...

Fulham manager Scott Parker is looking to bolster his squad during the January transfer window, as the Cottagers look to maintain their promotion challenge with the club considering Rangers defender Connor Goldson, according to a report on Football Insider.

Goldson, 27, joined Rangers in June 2018 from Brighton and has impressed for the Ibrox side in the SPFL since his move, though Fulham are now hoping to tempt him back south of the border.

So would Goldson be a good signing at Craven Cottage, is he needed and would he start?

We discuss.........

Jordan Rushworth
"This would be a smart signing for Fulham to make this month, with the defender having developed his all around defensive game during his time with Rangers over the last few campaigns, which suggests he could be ready to make a return to the Championship.

"Fulham, though, do have options at the heart of defence having just added Michael Hector to the squad alongside the likes of Tim Ream, Alfie Mawson and Maxime Le Marchand, which could make it a challenge for Goldson to make it into their starting line-up.

"Goldson, though, could well be able to form an effective partnership with Hector at the heart of Fulham's defence during the rest of the campaign, and the pair could help to make Scott Parke's side more difficult to break down.

"Rangers would likely be reluctant to lose Goldson this month, although Fulham could tempt him to Craven Cottage with the prospect of a return to the Premier League were Parker's side to find some consistent form during the rest of the season."

Josh Cole
"If Fulham can convince Goldson to make the move to Craven Cottage, it could turn out to be somewhat of a coup.

"A mainstay in Rangers' starting eleven this season, the defender has played a key role in helping the club achieve a tremendous amount of success in the Scottish Premiership in recent months.

"Whilst Goldson has only played 29 games at Championship level during his career, there is no reason why he cannot take this particular division by storm with Fulham providing that he is given time to adapt to his new surroundings.

"With the Cottagers looking to secure an immediate return to the Premier League in May, the 27-year-old's arrival could potentially help them achieve this goal."

George Harbey
"I think that Goldson could be an excellent addition for Fulham as the Cottagers look to get back on track and push for promotion to the Premier League.

"Goldson has been a really important player under Steven Gerrard over the past couple of years, and has provided real leadership in the heart of Gers' defence.

"He has, of course, experienced success at this level before with Brighton and Hove Albion so that would obviously help Fulham in their quest for an immediate return to the top-flight this term.

"The defender is entering his prime and he could be a really useful addition for Scott Parker's side. Fulham are really impressive in attack, but their defence has really let them down this season having conceded 30 goals in the Championship."



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/could-turn-out-to-be-somewhat-of-a-coup-fulham-plot-move-for-rangers-player-the-verdict/

Fulham in talks with Kongolo

According to Sky Sports, Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo is in talks over joining Fulham.

The 25-year-old is currently out of favour at Huddersfield Town and the club are willing to cooperate with a transfer.

According to Sky Sports, Kongolo is in talks with Fulham, who would loan the defender until the end of the season with an option to make it permanent.

Kongolo became the most expensive transfer in Huddersfield Town's history when he joined from AS Monaco in 2018 for €20 million. He has made 45 appearances for the club and has a contract until 2022.



http://www.football-oranje.com/fulham-in-talks-with-kongolo/

Jordan Archer joins Fulham after short-term deal at Oxford United

(https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/resources/images/10908389.jpg?display=1&htype=0&type=responsive-gallery)
Jordan Archer played eight games for Oxford United Picture: David Fleming

JORDAN Archer has signed for Fulham following the conclusion of his short-term deal with Oxford United.

The goalkeeper, who was a free agent, played eight games for Karl Robinson's side in a four-week deal as cover for Simon Eastwood.

Also read: Oxford United's FA Youth Cup tie with Preston North End rearranged - for Deepdale

It expired earlier this month, but Archer's spell with the U's helped get him back in the spotlight after spending the first half of the season without a club.

He has signed a contract with Fulham until the end of the campaign, with the club holding the option of a 12-month extension.



https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/sport/18165144.jordan-archer-joins-fulham-short-term-deal-oxford-united/

New Tour Dates Added

Further dates have now been added in January 2020 for Fulham fans to enjoy Craven Cottage Tours.

Experience the rich history of London's original football club with tour dates added at 11am on Sunday 19th January, Friday 24th January or Saturday 25th January. For a full list of Craven Cottage Tour dates and times, please click here.

The tour, which commences by the Johnny Haynes Statue on Stevenage Road, takes you to all the key locations around the ground including the home and away dressing rooms, the press room, our new fan-inspired bar, The Flag – showcasing memorable moments from Fulham's past - as well as the historic Cottage itself!

Adults can secure their spot on the tour for £15, with juniors priced at £12 and under 5's free of charge. You can also take advantage of a special Family Package, with 2 adults and 2 kids just £45.

Fans can book their space online, by emailing [email protected] or by calling 0203 841 9053.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/16/craven-cottage-tours-dates-added

Fulham will reportedly sign £18m man; move could have ramifications at Southampton

Fulham will reportedly sign Huddersfield's Terence Kongolo, opening the door for Joe Bryan to seal a return to the Premier League.

Fulham are in talks to sign £18m Terrence Kongolo from Huddersfield Town, according to West London Sport, with Harry Toffolo expected to replace the Holland international at the John Smith's Stadium.

Could this be a transfer which causes ripples throughout English football?

After a difficult season at a Huddersfield side in danger of successive relegations, reports from the capital suggest that a former Feyenoord and Monaco defender is on his way to Craven Cottage.

Scott Parker's Fulham have entered talks over a deal which would see Kongolo, the Terriers' £18 million record signing, move to West London on loan until the end of the season.

And, interestingly, the report suggests that this could be linked with the rising interest in Joe Bryan. The Mail claims that Southampton and Watford are both interested in the Fulham flyer and Kongolo, who has made most of his appearances at left-back this season, could be the former Bristol City star's successor, even if he is not exactly a like-for-like replacement.

Southampton need reinforcements on the left, having sold Matt Targett to Aston Villa over the summer and Bryan is the kind of swashbuckling wide man who Ralph Hasenhuttl loves.

Kongolo's impending departure could also pave the way for Huddersfield to make their third signing of the window. The Express reports that Danny Cowley is hoping to raid former employers Lincoln City for Harry Toffolo, a former Norwich and England U20 left-back who has been in the form of his life at Sincil Bank.

The January market is a chessboard and it seems that the pieces are moving.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/01/16/do-fulham-will-reportedly-sign-18m-man-move-could-have-ramificat/

Fulham striker ruled out of Middlesbrough tie

Middlesbrough have been handed a huge boost as Fulham are set to be without top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic ahead of their clash on Friday night.

Mitrovic had suffered an ankle ligament injury late in Fulham's 1-0 victory at Hull City last Saturday, with the player leaving on a stretcher.

Fulham boss Scott Parker had feared the worst during his post-match comments revealing that the injury didn't look good.

Parker has since given an update ahead of the game against Middlesbrough, revealing that it was not as bad as initially feared.

"We were worried it might have be a little bit longer but, although there is damage there, we hope we can turn him around in a few weeks."

This means that he will miss the game on Friday, which is a huge loss for the Cottagers given the wider context.

Mitrovic has scored 18 goals so far in the League, which is 44% of the total goals scored by Fulham this season.

Boro boss Jonathan Woodgate will be able to prepare his team without having the problem of facing the Serbian forward.

Boro are on a five-match unbeaten streak in the Championship and are looking to continue this good form at Craven Cottage on Friday.



https://www.oneboro.co.uk/boro-news/fulham-striker-ruled-out-of-middlesbrough-tie-16120

What Fulham boss learned about Boro from Spurs clash & praise for Woodgate

Parker was taking notes on 'athletic' Boro ahead of the Craven Cottage clash

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match preview-Boro-v-Fulham

Scott Parker is expecting a tough test against 'athletic' Middlesbrough at Craven Cottage tomorrow.

The Fulham boss was scribbling away taking notes as he watched spirited Boro make a game of it at Spurs.

Jonathan Woodgate's side battled back from a two goal deficit in a lively second half before going down 2-1 in Tuesday's FA Cup third round replay at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium.

"They grew into the game and gave themselves a fighting chance against a very good side in Spurs," said Parker.

"They're coming off a very good run, I think they're unbeaten in four or five in the division.

"Middlesbrough have some athletes in their team, so we'll need to be aware of that. It'll be another tough game for us."

And Parker also had praise for the Boro boss who has turned the season around dramatically.

When Fulham came to the Riverside in October and held on with 10 men for a 0-0 draw, Boro were seven without a win and had slipped into the relegation zone.

The reverse fixture comes with Boro top of the Championship form table having lost just one in eight.

"Jonathan Woodgate's done a very good job after a slow start," noted former England team-mate Parker.

"Early in the season, it was probably stressful for him, but he's changed things around a bit. He's a good lad."

While Boro will take positives after their show against Spurs, Fulham are bubbling after beating top flight Aston Villa  in their own third round clash, a result that ended a costly little wobble.

"It was a massive boost for us, beating Villa, a Premier League team," said Park. "It built momentum and confidence.

"Certainly after a bad result, there was no bigger test than Villa in a competition that I respect fully. You build on the positives."

But that win was followed by a 1-0 victory at Hull that came at a price as top scorer and talisman Aleksander Mitrovic picked up a serious ankle injury that will sideline him for at least three weeks.

Serbian striker Mitrovic has weighed in with 18 goals in 26 Championship matches for Fulham, scoring 44% of their total goals in the league this term.

"It's not ideal when your leading goalscorer gets injured," said Parker. "He's tweaked his ankle ligaments.

"When you start seeing your key players being injured, it's not nice, but that's what you have a squad for.

"When it initially happened, we were nervous and he left the stadium in a boot but since then, he's had a scan and we're hoping he'll be alright in the next two or three weeks.

"Mitro's a player who has had very few injuries and he's quite robust."

Fulham will have to turn to other attacking options such as Bobby Decordova-Reid and Aboubakar Kamara.

Despite that Parker is hoping to regain momentum. Fulham are fourth and six points behind Leeds in the second automatic promotion spot and with a pack tightly gathered around them.

"We've got a run of fixtures with tough games coming up starting with Middlesbrough," he said.

"But they are games you look at and think if we can get on good run here, we can do something pretty good."



https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/what-fulham-boss-learned-boro-17578267

Nottingham Forest suffer Dwight Gayle setback, Southampton enter race for Joe Bryan - latest Championship rumours

The latest news and rumours from around the Championship

The January transfer window is now 16 days old with clubs currently embraced in the madness that a transfer window normally brings.

A host of clubs from division are all being linked with signing new players, with the 2020 January transfer window set to close on January 31.

With that in mind, we have taken a look at the latest rumours from around the Championship.

Forest suffer Gayle setback

Nottingham Forest could be set to bow out of the race to sign Dwight Gayle.

Sabri Lamouchi's side has been heavily linked with a loan move for the forward this month.

But the Daily Star is reporting that City Ground chiefs have hit a roadblock in negotiations with their St James' Park counterparts.

Saints enter race for Bryan

Southampton have joined the race for Joe Bryan.

The former Bristol City man has spent the last 18 months at Fulham but is attracting interest in the January transfer window.

Watford have previously been linked with the left-back, but the Daily Mail is now reporting Southampton have now expressed an interest in the 26-year-old.

West Brom target Huddersfield forward

West Brom are considering a move for Huddersfield Town forward Karlan Grant this month.

Grant has scored 12 goals so far this season, having cost Town £2million when he arrived from Charlton last January.

BirminghamLive understands that Baggies boss Slaven Bilic is weighing up whether to make a move, as he looks bolster his attacking options for the second half of the season.

Fulham eye Rangers star

Fulham are targeting Rangers defender Connor Goldson this month.

Goldson has been one of the Gers' standout stars in the Scottish Premiership since his move to the club in 2018.

A Fulham source has told Football Insider that the club are keeping close tabs on Goldson after his impressive displays in Scotland.



https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/uk-sports-news/nottingham-forest-suffer-dwight-gayle-17573887

4 goals, 2 assists: The Fulham attacker who will need to step up in key man's absence

Fulham boss Scott Parker has confirmed that leading goalscorer Aleksandar Mitrovic will be out of action for between two and three weeks after suffering an ankle injury against Hull on the weekend.

Mitrovic was carried off on a stretcher in the 80th minute of the Cottagers' 1-0 victory over the Tigers, but it has now emerged that the Serbian's injury is not as bad as first feared, with Mitrovic set to return to action in February.

The 25-year-old has been an integral figure during Fulham's promotion effort this season, during which the West London side often depending on his prolific record in front of goal to see them through games, with Mitrovic having netted 18 goals this term.

This means the Cottagers will certainly miss his services during his absence, but it also presents the opportunity for another attacker to step up to the mark during his lay-off, and Bobby Reid will be the main man aiming to fill in for Mitrovic.

Reid has impressed in various attacking roles since joining on a season-long loan deal from Cardiff over the summer, with the 26-year-old having made 24 appearances this campaign, and he could well lead the line over the coming weeks for Parker's side.

Here, we take a closer look at Reid's stats so far this season as he prepares to become the main man for Fulham...


Reid has been a regular feature in the Fulham side this campaign which has seen him complete 1691 minutes of action for the Cottagers, while he has now played the full 90 minutes in each of his side's last five league matches.

His versatility means he has not really been given the opportunity to settle in one position in Parker's side – with Reid being able to play anywhere in Fulham's attacking unit – but he has been able to score four goals and register two assists during his outings.

It should also be noted that three of these goals have come during Fulham's last four league matches, so it certainly appears as though the attacker is finding form at the right time as he prepares to try and fill Mitrovic's goalscoring void.

Reid's overall game play has been particularly impressive since his switch to West London, and this is partly indicated through his 84.1% pass completion rate, which suggests he has quickly been able to develop a strong understanding with his teammates.

The 26-year-old has also shown he is regularly able to transition the ball from midfield to attack by completing an average of 3.14 dribbles per game, and he should certainly be looking to utilise his dribbling quality if deployed up front by Parker.

Furthermore, Reid has also made a sound defensive contribution during his appearances in the side, with this seeing him winning 62% of his defensive duels, and this continues to illustrate how Reid has contributed across the park for the West Londoners.

Reid has definitely proven he is capable of stepping up to the mark in Mitrovic's absence from the team, and the fact he has also been among the goals recently suggests Fulham will be more than comfortable with him leading the line for the next few weeks.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/4-goals-2-assists-the-fulham-attacker-who-will-need-to-step-up-in-key-mans-absence/

2.52 saves per game: Will this 26-y/o be suitable back-up at Fulham until the end of the season?

Fulham have signed goalkeeper Jordan Archer on a free transfer from Oxford United.

The 26-year-old stopper was on a short-term deal at Oxford, and has today joined Fulham until the end of the season. He'll act as no.2 to Marek Rodak, as it looks evermore likely that Marcus Bettinelli will depart this month.

Ex-Wycombe, Northampton and Millwall keeper Archer is a product of the Charlton Athletic youth academy, although he spent time in the Tottenham Hotspurs academy too, and has represented Scotland at U19, U20 and U21 level as well as being capped by the Scottish national team.

Millwall though is where Archer made his name – he played 166 games for the Lions between 2015 and 2019, being named Player of the Season in his first season, and winning promotion under Neil Harris in 2017 before being released by the club last summer.

Oxford gave him refuge with a short-term deal, and here's how he fared for the U's:


In six games for Oxford, Archer kept three clean sheets. He averaged just over a goal conceded every game, but given that Oxford played Manchester City in that time, isn't all that bad.

Archer kept a long pass accuracy of 73.2%, and managed to average 2.52 saves per game – distribution was one of Bettinelli's downfalls, and fans will be pleased to know that they've found a solid back-up goalkeeper in Archer.

One of Parker's best moves at Fulham this season has been to introduce Rodak into the side. The Slovakian stopper has been a revelation since replacing Bettinelli, and looks set to be the no.1 at Craven Cottage for many years to come.

This'll give Archer plenty of down time on the Fulham bench, but with it only being a short-term deal until the end of the season, the 26-year-old could well move on again in the summer.

He becomes Fulham's third signing of the transfer window after the permanent signing of Wolves' Ivan Cavaleiro, and Michael Hector finalising his move from Chelsea on New Year's Day.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-52-saves-per-game-will-this-26-y-o-be-suitable-back-up-at-fulham-until-the-end-of-the-season/

Fulham v Middlesborough
FRI 17 Jan 2020  Championship
Venue: Craven Cottage


Aleksandar Mitrovic will miss Fulham's game with Middlesbrough on Friday as the Whites look for a win that will take them third in the Championship.

The Serbia striker injured his ankle in Saturday's win at Hull and is likely to be out for two or three weeks.

Middlesbrough, beaten in the FA Cup by Tottenham on Tuesday, are still without striker Britt Assombalonga and centre-back Daniel Ayala (both ankle).

Defenders Ryan Shotton, George Friend and Anfernee Dijksteel are also out.

As well as Mitrovic, Fulham will be unable to call upon midfielder Harrison Reed (calf) and forward Aboubakar Kamara, who has an ankle injury.

The west London club have won two of their past three games and are fourth in the table, seven points behind second-placed Leeds United.

Match facts

    Fulham are winless in their last two home league games against Middlesbrough (D1 L1) since winning 4-3 in April 2015.
    Middlesbrough have won none of their last four matches against Fulham in all competitions (D2 L2) since a 2-0 victory in the Championship back in February 2016.
    Fulham have not lost consecutive home Championship games since October 2016.
    Middlesbrough striker Ashley Fletcher has scored in each of his last two away league games - he had scored only once in his previous 10 away games this season.
    Since his debut in February 2018, Fulham's injured striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has scored 35% of the club's goals in all competitions (41 of 116).
    Since losing 4-0 at Leeds United in November, Middlesbrough have taken more points than any other Championship side (W5 D2 L1 - 17 points).



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51058095

99 interceptions: Fulham's reported move for Rangers rock would create one of the Championship's best duos

With the halfway point of the 2019/20 season having now passes, Fulham fans would be forgiven for feeling rather underwhelmed with their campaign so far.

Following their emphatic relegation from the Premier League, an immediate promotion back to the top-flight would be the only palatable option from the current term.

And whilst promotion is still very much on the cards, with the Whites perched in fourth place, they remain seven points behind Leeds United who currently hold the final spot in the automatic promotion places.

This window could therefore prove crucial.

One thing that Scott Parker and the club got badly wrong in the summer was their failure to strengthen at the back, with Michael Hector's arrival only going through at the start of this month.

But, if recent rumours are to be believed, they are on their way to rectifying that.

On Wednesday the club were linked with a move for Rangers centre-back Connor Goldson by Football Insider, a man who has been an ever present under Steven Gerrard this season.

Here we take a look at his stats from the current campaign, and whether or not he would make a good acquisition for Fulham:


What has been apparent at Craven Cottage this year is that Fulham have a crop of defenders who are good footballers but not particularly good defenders.

The likes of Alfie Mawson, Tim Ream and Maxime Le Marchand are all very capable with the ball at their feet, but in terms of snuffing out chances for the opposition and winning physical battles, they have each left a lot to be desired.

Hector will go a long way to solving that, but bringing in Goldson as well would give Fulham the centre-back pairing they should have really started the season with.

Goldson has really thrived since moving to Rangers from Brighton in the summer of 2018, with this season looking like being his best yet.

He has not missed a minute for the club, as they push for a league title, with his physicality at the back proving a big part of their success. He has won just under 64% of his duels this season, and cleared the ball 67 times.

There is much more on offer with Goldson than just physicality, however. His intelligence and reading of the game ensures that he does not always have to get himself into duels, intercepting the ball 99 times, or once every 18 minutes in the league this season – that is impressive at any level.

The Whites have nothing to worry about in terms of his footballing side either. Where Mawson and Ream thrive, Goldson measures up as well, completing 87% of his passess this season, showing that he has what is needed to slot seemlessly into the back four at Craven Cottage.

Parker has had a lot of stick this season from fans at times, and some of it has been deserved, but if he moves to bring Goldson to the club, there can be no question that he is moving in the right direction. Pairing Hector with Goldson would create one of the second-tier's most formidable defensive duos.

The 27-year-old is just what they need.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/99-interceptions-fulhams-reported-move-for-rangers-rock-would-create-one-of-the-championships-best-duos/

"Within next 48 hours" – Move within Championship possible as Fulham player's agent sends warning

On Wednesday we covered claims from Sweden regarding the future of Luca de la Torre.

With a Fulham contract expiring in the summer, the 21 year old is now able to speak with other clubs. He's only had a handful of minutes in the Championship so far this season, so an exit looks the likeliest outcome, and talks have been ongoing in that regard.

Djurgården sporting director Bosse Andersson was quoted yesterday as saying: "It is true that we have contact with Luca de la Torre. We've been talking to him for a while. But without us yet agreeing.

"This isn't a player just known to us today. This player is well known to us since a good time back. He's interesting. He's a good player with great qualities, but as I said we have no agreement."

There was even a suggestion the Fulham player could be unveiled by Djurgården at the weekend, something Andersson didn't want to get into.

Now Fotboll Direkt have spoken to the player's agent, and he doesn't sound like he's got a lot of patience left with the Swedish club, dropping hints about walking away from their interest.

Lance Davids sent a warning out and even suggested De La Torre could leave Fulham for another Championship club, if Djurgården don't hurry: "It is true that we met Djurgården on Sunday, we had a good conversation. But we have interest from several places, including from another Championship club. We need to get a message from Djurgården soon, within the next 48 hours."

There's been no talk of paying Fulham a fee, so perhaps there's an assumption the club will let him go for free in January.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/within-next-48-hours-move-within-championship-possible-fulham-players-agent-sends-warning/

How Fulham's XI could look if all the latest transfer rumours materialised

Just like most clubs in the Championship, the January transfer window looks like it could well be decisive in determining where Fulham finish in the second-tier come May.

Following their relegation from the Premier League last season, the Whites set their sights on an immediate return to the promised land and, currently sat in fourth place, it is still on – although seven points separate them from the top two.

There have been plenty of rumours surrounding them.

Leicester City midfielder Daniel Amartey has been linked with a move to Craven Cottage, as has Rangers' Connor Goldson.

Former Millwall man Jordan Archer has already made the move official whilst Michael Hector eventually got his own deal across the line as well.

But with Joe Bryan being linked with the likes of Southampton and Watford, they need to be wary of potentially losing their star men as well.

So, with two weeks until the transfer window slams shut, we take a look at how Scott Parker could set-up his side if these rumours come to fruition...


Whilst it is unlikely that Marek Rodak will be dropped straight away, Archer's arrival does at least give Parker another option after, seemingly, losing faith in Marcus Bettinelli.

If Joe Bryan does leave, it could be a case of Steven Sessegnon filling in on the left with no apparent deals for a new full-back in the offing, whilst Denis Odoi remains on the right.

However, in the centre of defence they look look like they could improve dramatically, with Hector and Goldson likely to form an extremely resilient partnership.

The only other new face being talked about is Leicester's Amartey who would slot comfortably into the club's favoured midfield three, with his energy likely to match Stefan Johansen's own industry and allow Tom Cairney to push on creatively and provid for Cavaleiro, Mitrovic and Knockaert.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/how-fulhams-xi-could-look-if-all-the-latest-transfer-rumours-materialised/

LOAN: TERENCE KONGOLO JOINS FULHAM

Defender joins London club for the rest of the season

- Terence Kongolo departs Huddersfield Town on loan
- Defender joins Fulham for the remainder of the 2019/20 campaign
- Netherlands international moves to London club

Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo has today joined Sky Bet Championship side Fulham on loan for the rest of the 2019/20 season.

The 25-year-old has made 11 appearances for Huddersfield Town so far this season, his last coming in the Club's defeat to Bristol City at the end of November.

Terence joined Town in January 2018 on loan from AS Monaco before signing permanently the following summer. During his time with the Terriers, the defender has made 56 appearances, scoring one goal.

The Netherlands international will now join the Cottagers for the remainder of the campaign under the stewardship of Scott Parker.

Fulham currently sit fourth in the Sky Bet Championship table with 45 points from 27 games.

The defender's contract at Town runs until the summer of 2022.



https://www.htafc.com/news/2020/january/terence-kongolo-joins-fulham/

Kongolo Signs On Loan

The Club is delighted to announce the loan signing of defender Terence Kongolo from Huddersfield Town.

The 25-year-old, who is equally comfortable playing as a centre-half or at left-back, will be at Craven Cottage for the rest of the season.

Speaking to FFCtv after signing, Kongolo said: "I am really happy with this move. Fulham is a big team pushing for promotion so for me this a perfect move.

"I really want to show my qualities and the next six months are very important. I like the winning mentality here and I want to give everything to help this Club get promoted."

Tony Khan added: "Terence Kongolo is a strong addition to our squad, and he'll add depth to our defence for the remainder of the season. He's an exciting young player with good experience in both the Championship and the Premier League, and he'll help us in our challenge for promotion! Come on Fulham!"


Born in Switzerland but raised in the Netherlands, Kongolo has four full Dutch caps to his name, and was part of the squad that came third at the 2014 World Cup, aged just 20.

Kongolo rose through the youth ranks at Feyenoord, and was given an Eredivisie debut by Ronald Koeman in April 2012.

By the 2013/14 season he had established himself as a first choice defender in the Feyenoord backline, with his form earning him a place on the plane to Brazil.

Despite considerable interest in his services, Feyenoord managed to keep hold of Kongolo, and he played a major role in their successes over the next three seasons – most notably winning the KNVB Cup in 2016, and a first Eredivisie title in almost 20 years in 2017.

Kongolo then joined French champions AS Monaco for a reported £13.5m fee, where he was given a first taste of Champions League football.

A move to the Premier League was next, and Kongolo played a key role in helping Huddersfield retain their top flight status in the second half of the 2017/18 season.

His form convinced the Terriers to make him their club record signing for £17.5m in the summer, and he departs having made 43 appearances for the West Yorkshire outfit.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/16/terence-kongolo-signs-on-loan

Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo excited by the challenge after completing loan move to Fulham

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN defender Terence Kongolo has completed his move to Championship promotion-chasers Fulham on loan for the rest of the 2019-20 season.

The Netherlands international, 25, was the club's record signing when he joined for £17.5m from Monaco in the summer of 2018 following a successful initial half-season loan.

Kongolo has made 11 appearances for the Terriers this season, but has fallen out of favour in the last few months with his final appearance coming in the 5-2 defeat at Bristol City on November 30.

The centre-half, who can also operate at left-back, has made 56 appearances in total for Town, scoring one goal.

On his move, Kongolo said: "I am really happy with this move. Fulham is a big team pushing for promotion so for me this a perfect move.

"I really want to show my qualities and the next six months are very important. I like the winning mentality here and I want to give everything to help this club get promoted."

Kongolo will compete with the likes of Alfie Mawson, Michael Hector and Tim Ream for a starting spot in Scott Parker's starting line-up as Fulham seek to book an instant return to the Premier League.

Kongolo's contract at Huddersfield runs until the summer of 2022.

On the incoming front, Huddersfield - who have completed the signing of experienced Leicester City midfielder Andy King on loan for the rest of the season - are interested in Lincoln City left-back Harry Toffolo, who previously worked with Town chief Danny Cowley at Sincil Bank.

Toffolo's contract expires in the summer, but there is a clause for extension which can be triggered by the player, with Lincoln manager Michael Appleton revealing on Thursday that the player's situation is likely to become clearer by the weekend.

Last week, Town also brought in former Sheffield United centre-half Richard Stearman and Arsenal winger Emile Smith Rowe, who could be handed debuts in Saturday's Championship home game with Brentford.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/huddersfield-town-defender-terence-kongolo-excited-by-the-challenge-after-completing-loan-move-to-fulham-1-10206036

Kongolo joins Fulham on loan

Fulham have signed Huddersfield's Dutch defender Terence Kongolo on loan until the end of the season.

The 25 year-old moves to Craven Cottage after falling out of favour at Huddersfield, having made just 11 first-team appearances this season. Kongolo, whose immense performances during his initial loan spell with the Terriers convinced Town to make him their record signing in 2018, told Fulham's website that he was delighted with the opportunity to make an impact as the Whites push for promotion:

    I am really happy with this move. Fulham is a big team pushing for promotion so for me this a perfect move. I really want to show my qualities and the next six months are very important. I like the winning mentality here and I want to give everything to help this Club get promoted.

Kongolo, who came through the Feyenoord youth system, made his senior debut under Ronald Koeman in 2012 and became a key part of the side that clinched the club's first league title in twenty years in 2017. He got a taste of Champions' League football following a big-money move to AS Monaco and starred on loan as Huddersfield survived relegation in 2018. He has made 56 senior appearances for the Terriers, scoring a single goal.

Kongolo, who can play either at left back or in central defence, will likely compete with Alfie Mawson, Tim Ream, Michael Hector and Denis Odoi for a position at the heart of Scott Parker's back four. He has won four senior caps for his country and was part of the Dutch squad that finished fourth at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/01/kongolo-joins-fulham-on-loan/

Fulham confirm Kongolo arrival

Fulham have confirmed the signing of Terence Kongolo on loan from Huddersfield Town until the end of the season.

The Dutch international was at a dead end at Huddersfield Town, who signed the versatile defender from AS Monaco for €20 million in 2018.

Fulham have now offered Kongolo a chance to regain some form and play a part in their promotion push.

Kongolo told the Fulham website, "I am really happy with this move. Fulham is a big team pushing for promotion so for me this a perfect move.

"I really want to show my qualities and the next six months are very important. I like the winning mentality here and I want to give everything to help this Club get promoted."

There is no mention of an option to make the deal permanent at the end of the loan.



http://www.football-oranje.com/fulham-confirm-kongolo-arrival/

Middlesbrough go to Fulham as 'a force to be reckoned with' says upbeat Adam Clayton

Boro have dramatically raised the levels of performance and improved result to raise the bar of late says midfielder

Middlesbrough have raised the bar and will go to Fulham tonight looking to win.

The squad is surging with belief after their recent revival and after away wins at summit sides West Brom and Preston will be looking for another scalp at Craven Cottage says Adam Clayton.

They are once more a force to be reckoned with and are 'like the old Boro' again he declared.   

"I wouldn't say we will go there expecting to win but I would say we will go there expecting to perform," said the anchorman.

"And if we perform, I think we can beat Fulham. I think we can beat anyone in the Championship when we play the way we've been playing.

"We showed that away at West Brom, who were top of the league, and away at Preston, who had the best home record in the Championship.

"We'll go to Fulham and as long as we keep the work ethic up and the running we've been putting in -  some of the lads have been doing over 1200 high intensity in every game -  then we'll be good.

"They're unbelievable numbers to be doing week in, week out, so we've got to keep them things up and we'll be okay."

Boro travel in great form. Only a last gasp leveller against Derby stopped them clocking up a fifth successive win last weekend.

Then they took Champions League finalists Spurs all the way in a spirited second of a 2-1 FA Cup replay defeat on Tuesday.

It's all a far cry from the last time the teams met back in October when a struggling side laboured away and failed to break down 10 man Fulham in a goalless draw.

That drab and toothless encounter extended Boro's run to seven without a win and left them in the relegation spots.

Fast forward to Craven Cottage tonight and Boro kick-off as one of the Championship's form sides and just eight points shy of the  play-off spots and bubbling with optimism. That's quite a transformation. 

"The bar has been raised but that's what we want," said elder statesman Clayton.

"I said after the West Brom game, I've been waiting for that feeling of going to a top team and getting a proper away result.

"It was a proper away day, like we've had for the last four years. It felt like the old Boro again.

"We can go to places and win, and we're a force to be reckoned with.

"It was really refreshing and I think the young lads have felt that for the first time.

"I think they believe now, which is probably the biggest thing, especially after the start to the season.

"We played well at Luton and against Brentford but didn't really get the results and then confidence went a little bit.

"If those two had gone the other way, this run could have started a lot earlier and who knows?

"But we'll keep training hard. The gaffer's sessions are top class. We'll keep going and enjoying it day to day."

With two games in London this week the entire first team set-up decamped to the capital en masse.

The full squad, coaching and medical teams, analysts and press office have all been in London since Monday.

Boss Jonathan Woodgate said he wasn't happy at being away for five days but the disruption of routine was probably better than the prospects of travelling home in between games.

Boro have been staying in a plush West London hotel and training at the Crystal Palace complex.

But Clayton insists the different surrounds and dislocation is no problem for a fully focused squad.

"It won't affect anything," he said. "We are professionals and we just get on with the work.

"And it is no problem," he laughed. "We're in a seven-star hotel - my room is bigger than my house.

"I'm away from my new daughter for the first time properly so that's a bit tough, but at least I get a night's good kip!

"I think the best decision that could have been made was to stay down. We can train, rest and get ready, and then we'll be home to see the families in three or four days.

"This is our job, this is our life, so we'll be ready for Fulham no matter what."



https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/middlesbrough-go-fulham-a-force-17581155

Fulham v Middlesbrough: Youthful Boro can still make play-offs – Adam Clayton

CRAVEN COTTAGE was famously the venue for a headline statement of intent from Middlesbrough back in May 2006.

Ahead of Boro's Uefa Cup final in Eindhoven, former manager Steve McClaren – soon bound for the England job – selected a squad almost totally composed of young prospects for their final top-flight game of the season against Fulham.

The Boro team that started had an average age of 20 and was – and still is to this day – the youngest starting line-up in Premier League history.

Well over a decade on and the flower of youth is again blossoming at Boro, whose recent renaissance has featured some absorbing contributions from the likes of Djed Spence, Hayden Coulson and Aynsley Pears.

All three are likely to start tonight and it promises to be a special night for ex-Cottagers' academy player Spence.

The current mood in the Boro ranks contrasts sharply with the emotions back on October 26 after a 0-0 draw in the reverse fixture with Fulham, who must make do without attacking talisman Alexsandar Mitrovic this evening through injury.

It was a game which saw the Teessiders drop into the relegation zone after failing to cash in on having an extra man for 73 minutes after the dismissal of keeper Marek Rodak, with the mood music being far from positive for Jonathan Woodgate.

Now, Boro are 10 points above the trap door, with their improvement having even prompted midfielder Adam Clayton to talk up their potential as outsiders for the play-offs.

He said: "Obviously we cannot get carried away. We need to keep our feet on the ground and not be complacent.

"But I think we can have a really good go at it. And yes, we've got half an eye on the play-offs. I think in this league you have to."

It may be optimistic chatter, but still represents a barometer of the change in mindset at Boro since the start of December.

Last night, Boro completed the signing of Austrian goalkeeper Dejan Stojanovic from Swiss side St Gallen.

The 26-year-old, who has also played in Serie B with Bologna, has joined on a three-and-a-half year contract and comes in after the exit of Darren Randolph.

Last six games: Fulham WDWLWW; Middlesbrough WWWDDL.

Referee: D Webb (Co Durham).

Last time: Fulham 1 Middlesbrough 1, September 23, 2017; Championship.




https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/middlesbrough-fc/fulham-v-middlesbrough-youthful-boro-can-still-make-play-offs-adam-clayton-1-10206055

3 Fulham players who will surely be happy if club seals deal for Rangers man

Fulham will be eager to carry out some effective transfer business this month as they look to reignite their push for an immediate return to the Premier League.

And the latest name to be linked with a move to Craven Cottage is Rangers' rock-like centr-back Connor Goldson, with Football Insider reporting that the club have been thoroughly impressed with his displays at Ibrox so far this season.

With the likes of Ivan Cavaleiro, Tom Cairney and Aleksandar Mitrovic all impressing in attack, it has been at the back where The Whites have been found wanting on many occasions.

As such, Goldson is likely to be a popular signing if he is brought in – amongst both players and fans.

Here we take a look at THREE players who will surely be delighted to see him arrive (if he does)...

Michael Hector
The defender has only officially been registered as a Fulham player for a matter of weeks but is likely to become the club's new first-choice centre back.

With the likes of Tim Ream, Maxime Le Marchand and Alfie Mawson all failing to convince regularly this season, the former Chelsea man would almost certainly welcome the increased competition for places alongside him.

Marek Rodak
Rodak has been largely impressive this season between the sticks for Scott Parker, but every goalkeeper ultimately wants to face as few shots as possible.

Goldson is a notoriously brave defender. Willing to put his head in where it hurts and put his body on the line to keep out the opposition.

So whilst Rodak will still back himself to save any shots he faces, and so he should, having a defender like that in the side will undoubtedly make his job significantly easier.

Tom Cairney
Cairney has once again proved there are few better midfielders in the second tier than him, but he has perhaps even been playing below his usual standards at times this season as well.

This could be due to the midfield being tasked with defending more in the opening half of the season as a result of a centre-back pairing who need more protection than others might.

Goldson's arrival may well allow the playmaker to do what he does best more often. The defender has also already netted three goals for Rangers this season, so having someone else to get on the end of his set-pieces will be of huge appeal to Cairney as well.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-fulham-players-who-will-surely-be-happy-if-club-seals-deal-for-rangers-man/

The likely changes that Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate could make for Fulham test

Middlesbrough return to Championship action on Friday night as they take on Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The Teessiders are on a run of five games without defeat in the league – a run which has seen them move away from the relegation zone.

Jonathan Woodgate's side suffered a 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup third round replay midweek meaning that while tiredness could be an issue for the North East side, they'll be determined to get back to winning ways against Scott Parker's side.

Fulham will no doubt provide a difficult test given their hopes of challenging for promotion this term, and Woodgate will have some key decisions to make as he looks to squeeze every drop out of his injury-hit squad.

But who should start for Middlesbrough? We take a look at the options facing the Boro boss.


Darren Randolph's move to West Ham makes it slightly easier for Jonathan Woodgate to pick a goalkeeper.

Tomas Mejias started the FA Cup clash with Spurs but was responsible for the opening goal after a horrific mistake gifted Giovani Lo Celso the ball on the edge of the area.

That means that Aynsley Pears is expected to return between the sticks.

In defence a number of injuries means that options are fairly limited.

Djed Spence, Jonny Howson, Dael Fry and Paddy McNair started against Tottenham and given the lack of options at Woodgate's disposal it'll be a surprise if they don't start again at Craven Cottage.

Marvin Johnson started down the left in North London but it's likely that Hayden Coulson will return to the side after being rested.

Howson and McNair's continued selection in defence means that the midfield area is another with limited options.

Adam Clayton started the game against Spurs but could sit this one out with George Saville certain to return to the starting line-up.

He should join Lewis Wing in the centre of the park, with Ben Liddle also likely to drop out of the side after his first senior start mid-week.

Marcus Tavernier and Patrick Roberts were named as substitutes to face Spurs and should return to the starting line-up after their impressive displays against Derby County last week.

They'll support Ashley Fletcher who – despite starting against Tottenham – should lead the line given his excellent recent form.

That means that Lukas Nmecha and Rudy Gestede will be waiting in the wings for the clash with Craven Cottage, while Britt Assombalonga will no doubt miss out again through injury.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/jonathan-woodgate-to-ring-the-changes-as-middlesbrough-prepare-for-fulham-test/

Fulham confirm arrival of 25-y/o from Championship rivals

Fulham have confirmed the signing of Huddersfield Town centre-back Terrence Kongolo on a loan deal that will run until the end of the 2019/20 season.

The 25-year-old has arrived to bolster the Whites' defensive line, and is capable of playing both in the centre and on the left-hand side of defence, with Scott Parker no doubt hoping that he will help restore some solidity to the side.

This season has seen him make 11 second-tier appearances for The Terriers since their relegation from the Premier League, but he has not been involved in the matchday squad since the 5-2 loss to Bristol City at the end of November.

He was a regular throughout the club's second season in the Premier League, however, racking up 32 appearances as they plummeted to the foot of the table, notching one goal and an assist in the campaign.

Along with goalkeeper Jordan Archer, Fulham have now made two new signings this month, as well as finally confirming the arrival of Michael Hector from Chelsea.

Fulham currently sit in fourth place with over half of the season having now elapsed but with seven points still between themselves and Leeds United, who occupy the final place in the automatic promotion places.

The verdict

I don't think this is a bad signing for Fulham by any means but I also feel like they probably could have brought in somebody more effective.

Kongolo has clearly fallen out of favour with Danny Cowley and, as much as Fulham need to bring in defensive reinforcements, I feel like moving for somebody a bit more up and coming on a permanent deal may have been the better way to go about things.

But, having said that, Kongolo's versatility will prove very useful in the run-in.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-confirm-arrival-of-25-y-o-from-championship-rivals/

Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate will 'shake things up' for tough test at Fulham

'It's our third game in six days so it's stacked against us,' says the Boro boss, who's set to make changes

Jonathan Woodgate believes Fulham will be just as tough a nut to crack as West Brom and Preston.

Middlebrough reserved two of their best performances of the campaign so far for their Yuletide visits to The Hawthorns and Deepdale, winning both games 2-0.

Now, they are looking to record a third successive Championship away win on the spin at Craven Cottage tonight (ko 7.45pm).

Boro have been preparing for the game at Crystal Palace's training ground, making the return journey from their base in Chiswick, west London.

Woodgate didn't want his players to have to make the long journey north in the early hours of Wednesday morning following the 2-1 FA Cup loss and Spurs only to return back to the capital a day later.

Speaking to Teesside Live at the team hotel in London, the Boro boss said: "It was worthwhile staying down here because the travelling would have been a nightmare going back late the other night and travelling back down the next day."

On the game, he added: "I'll shake things up a bit and make changes. Three games in six days so I'll have to make changes.

"Fulham are seven points off automatic promotion, one of the best teams in the Championship.

"They got relegated from the Premier League last year and they still have a lot of Premier League players."

Fulham boss Scott Parker will be without his talismanic striker Aleksander Mitrovic but the hosts will still be a tough team to overcome.

"They're going to miss Mitrovic but they've still got some very good players," said Woodgate.

"It's a difficult place to go. Just as hard as Preston, just as hard as West Brom.

"Can we win? Who knows. It's our third game in six days so it's stacked against us. We might have to look at the formation, we might have to look at a four so let's see."

The Boro players should be full of confidence after giving Spurs a fright in two well-contested FA Cup ties.

Tuesday's 2-1 defeat was an important lesson for the players, says Woodgate.

"It had no effect on their confidence at all," he said. "They'll be more positive because they will realise what they can do when they don't make little mistakes.

"That's the thing - two mistakes led to two goals. You can't do that against a Premier League side.

"I don't like losing. But we scored two goals against a team that reached the European Champions League final last season. At the minute it's working for us."

Woodgate will make changes against Fulham with Aynsley Pears and Hayden Coulson set to come back into the starting XI.

The head coach also said George Friend could be on course to take part in full training on Monday, January 27.

He said: "George and Shotts are making good progress on the grass and maybe on the 27th the pair will be back in full training and then they'll need to play a 60 minute game and a 90 minute game to be available for the first team because they've been out for a while."



https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/middlesbrough-boss-woodgate-shake-things-17582554

Can Boro Stop Fulham?

Boro make it three games in six days tonight when trying to take down Fulham at Craven Cottage. No easy task then and especially against the team currently fourth in the division and always a powerhouse in their Thameside home. Yet could it be a good time to play Scott Parker's team now facing up to life for a while without their injured top goalscorer Mitrovic? Can we sneak in and do a job while they are readjusting? Boro are at Fulham tonight 7.45pm kick off.

I spoke with Boro gaffer Jonathan Woodgate last night at the Boro hotel, near Brentford's ground. There were players walking around and chatting amiably. The whole atmosphere was relaxed and positive.

There were only a couple of journalists at the London press conference and Woodgate was keen to emphasise how big an ask it was for his players to perform a third time in a week. And also against a team with such a strong home record. It has the makings of another West Brom or Preston type scenario and we all know how well they went for us. No pressure but fingers crossed we can pull something out again.

Here is the short interview in full:

Fly: We play Fulham, a second game in London in a few days – so you have decided the best way to prepare is by staying down here?

JW: It was important to stay down, after Spurs we would have been getting home 3am/4am. So it wouldn't have been the best preparation, so we stayed down here and got a good night's sleep. Trained a couple of times, the players that played (at Spurs) got a warm down, the players who didn't play got a session. So we got some training on grass and some recuperation and are now looking forward to the game.

Fly: Can we expect you to swap some players again?

JW: Yes I will maybe make a few changes. I will have to look at that. All the players seem OK today but tomorrow is a different day.

Fly: There was massive support at Spurs on Tuesday night and there is probably going to be again on Friday...

JW: Yes, unbelievable. It is expensive coming down, not on just one trip but two trips. It is so expensive for the fans but they love doing it and they support their club no matter what and they find a way, find a way to come down and support their team and it is absolutely fantastic. We are lucky to have supporters like that.

Fly: And Fulham, Premier League until very recently with a lot of players with top flight experience. I remember earlier in the season they were your favourites to go straight back up. So a tough game.

JW: Yes, they are only 6 points off now, they have closed the gap on Leeds and West Brom. I know they are going to miss Mitrovic but they have got players that can come in and fill that void and like you say they are a really good team.

Fly: Craven Cottage has always been a difficult place to go hasn't it, their home form has always been their strength.

JW: Well again it is this year, they have got 26 points. The top one is Preston on 29pts. But it is stacked against us with 3 games in 6 days, not a huge squad and a lot of young players. This will be their second or third game. We might have to look at formation. Maybe go back to a four in the game.

Fly: Craven Cottage is a different world to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the fans are on top of the action, maybe that is one of the reasons that they are always strong at home.

JW: Yes, the atmosphere is always good. One stand down at the minute. But it is not going to be louder than at Spurs, is it? With their stadium, it was an unbelievable atmosphere.

Fly: Was that a great experience for everyone? I know we lost the game...

JW: Yes, a great experience of not giving Premier League players chances because you get punished. They will definitely learn from it and they will learn from the atmosphere. I thought they took it in their stride in the second half.

Fly: And that is a positive, the way we finished?

JW: Yes, we did, well thanks to the fans. That is probably why the fans were singing at the end of the game because they realised we had a go and we didn't just sit back and we tried and we pressed high. When you are giving it a go the fans will accept that.

Fly: It has been some turn around in the season, winning and performing well in really big games. We need to do that again of course at Fulham.

JW: Yes. Of course we need to really turn up but against this Fulham side, who are a really, really very good side in this league, six points off second place. It is going to be difficult. Let's see if my players will give it another go. Third game in six days...

So, can we beat Fulham? We can probably expect a few changes with Pears, Coulson, Saville and Tav all coming back in. I would have thought and quite possibly Roberts in for Nmecha. That still means a core of players starting all three games this week. With the game against Birmingham City next Tuesday. It is a good job we have 11 days off afterwards.

But for this evening, looking forward to the clash under the Craven Cottage floodlights. Can we make it another memorable away result?

Come On Boro and Up The Boro



https://www.fansonline.net/middlesbrough/article.php?id=5602

Win Kongolo's Shirt

To celebrate the arrival of Terence Kongolo, we're giving away a 2019/20 home shirt signed by our new defender!

For the chance to win Terence's shirt, simply fill in the form below before 11.59pm on Sunday 19th January.

Good luck!




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/17/win-kongolos-shirt

Do do do, let's all do the Kongolo

There's a new guy in town. Tall, versatile and still young. Fulham have secured the services of Terence Kongolo until the end of the season. Ben Jarman gives us the lowdown on our new defender.

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You may see some negative press from Terriers fans about his antics this season, but, this could genuinely be exciting for us. Many of you may remember the Dutch overcoming the odds at the 2014 World Cup to a third place finish in Brazil. Well, in that squad was a little known 20 year-old who went by the name of Terence Kongolo. A relative unknown, but trusted enough by Louis Van Gaal to be one of a new legion of centre-halves at that tournament. Out with the old of Mathijsen and Heitinga and in with De Vrij, Vlaar, Kongolo and Martins Indi.

Now, let's not get carried away here. Kongolo did only make a fleeting appearance against Chilé, but his form for Feyenoord was hugely impressive for someone of his young age. Feyenoord enjoyed a period of immense success during the early 90s winning three titles, but that honour eluded them until 2016, when, with Kongolo at the heart of their defence, they secured the title for the first time in more than 20 years.

They went on to secure another a KNVB Cup and two supporters shield victories with Terence in their ranks, and it wasn't long before a move was on the cards. But before we get to that, let's talk a little bit about what Kongolo brings to the table. Under Van Bronkhorst, Feyenoord played slick, fast-flowing football that played through the thirds and relied on incisive passing. But, unlike the Ajax team you see today, or the Dutch national team, Feyenoord were tighter at the back and registered 17 clean sheets with Kongolo playing centre-half. The influence of the former full-back Van Bronkhorst was there for all to see. And this is where Kongolo stood out, replacing mercurial Joris Mathijsen at the back and becoming and imposing leader.

His presence was felt across the back line as Feyenoord marched towards a historic title. But whilst many plaudits landed at the feet of star striker Nikolai Jorgensen, Kongolo had massively impressed. A storming centre-half whose height allows him to win aerial battles over opposition strikers with crisp passing that allows counters to start from source. Kongolo was part of a new wave of Dutch centre-halves, no longer were they slow and intelligent; he is raw, quick and no-nonsense.

Finally, a move away from the famous De Kuip followed, as Kongolo went to the riches of AS Monaco and their iconic Stade Louis II stadium. In what felt like an excellent move at the time, and given Monaco's track record for cultivating young players in to world class talent for huge profit (see also: Thomas Lemar, Kylian Mbappé & Ben Mendy), it was hoped that Kongolo would skyrocket in much the same way. However, he never really settled in the French principality and saw his development stunted by the excellence of Kamil Glik, Jemerson and the veteran Andrea Raggi. Kongolo's ball playing style did not seem to sit with the identity of Leandro Jardim's outfit and as such, was moved on. Perhaps the wonderkid tag bestowed to him may weighed too heavily on his head.

The bright lights and chilling winds of the John Smith's stadium beckoned, and following a very impressive six-month loan an £18m move followed. That loan spell announced the arrival of Kongolo on to the Premier League stage, and he demonstrated the tools that excited scouts across Europe once again. The dogged determination, the physicality in the air and, as you will see in SW6, the ability to also play at left-back. Although looking rangy, being 6″2, Terence possesses a great turn of foot and plays a head-up style of football that Fulham fans crave. Of late, the Terriers and Kongolo have struggled. Their Premier League campaign was over, realistically, by the middle of March and talisman David Wagner was replaced by ex-Borussia Dortmund reserve coach Jan Seibert. Kongolo's form dipped with the departure of his former manager and his start to Championship life has been a difficult one, with Huddersfield having a slow start and further managerial change.

However, a new lease of life in the capital will be a fresh start for a player that, genuinely is an exciting prospect. At 25, Kongolo has room for growth and has demonstrated the qualities needed to become an excellent centre-half. If Fulham are to revert at a formation that includes 3 centre-halves as we've seen over the course of the season, then this transfer makes sense. Working on the left hand side of Ream, his pace can cover any mistakes and his passing could spur the midfield in to action moving the ball quickly. This also frees up Joe Bryan to have an advanced attacking influence on the game.

Six months with Fulham gives him and the club a massive opportunity, lets hope he takes it.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2020-01-17-do-do-do-lets-all-do-the-kongolo/

Leeds United join Fulham in the race to sign Rangers star Connor Goldson

Leeds United have joined Fulham in the race to sign Rangers star Connor Goldson according to Football Insider.

The defender is attracting interest from a host of Championship clubs due to his impressive form under Rangers boss Steven Gerrard.

Leeds are looking at defensive reinforcements and could make a move for Goldson either in January or the summer with Ben White's future uncertain as he is due to return to parent club Brighton & Hove Albion at the end of the season.

The Yorkshire giants could look to sign White but they will face competition from several Premier League clubs with Liverpool and Manchester United also said to be interested in the centre-back.

Gaetano Berardi is out of contract at the end of June and there still appears to be no definitive decision as to if he will remain at the club. With the futures of Berardi and White unclear, this would leave club captain Liam Cooper as their most recognised senior centre-back which is something manager Marco Bielsa will wish to avoid.

Rangers manager Gerrard is a huge fan of Goldson and is looking to keep him at the club but is prepared for offers from other sides for the towering centre-back.

He has started almost every match since the Gerrard took charge at Ibrox and was one of his first signings. Goldson has made 34 league appearances this season and 54 in total.

Rangers paid £3million to Brighton & Hove Albion to sign him in June 2018 where Goldson struggled to break into their side once they had won promotion to the Premier League.




https://the72.co.uk/154965/leeds-united-join-fulham-in-the-race-to-sign-rangers-star-connor-goldson/

REPORT: Southampton Target Fulham Left-Back Joe Bryan

An extremely popular club amongst the English tabloids, Southampton have so far been linked to a number of players this transfer window. However, despite all of the rumours and reports, the Saints have yet to make a move. That said, a new rumour from the Football Insider does carry with it some weight. According to a report from Pete O'Rourke, Southampton have now set their sights on signing Fulham left-back Joe Bryan.
Report: Southampton Target Fulham Left Back Joe Bryan
Ralph Hasenhuttl Keen on Improving Strength at Full-back

Currently sporting just three senior side fullbacks, Southampton have struggled all season with depth at the position. This struggle has been especially prevalent in the left-back position. Outside of Ryan Bertrand, Southampton's only other true left-back is current youth academy star Jake Vokins. In fact, this season Southampton has already been forced to play both Kevin Danso and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg at the position.

While Vokins did perform spectacularly in Southampton's most recent FA Cup win, there are doubts about his first-team readiness. Because of this, it is no wonder why Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has targeted the fullback position in this transfer window. In fact, in recent days the rumour mill has only seemingly become more active.

Linked to Tottenham Hotspur prospect Kyle Walker-Peters, all signs are pointing towards the Saints improving at the fullback position. In recent days, all eyes on the South Coast have now turned towards the London-based Joe Bryan. The 26-year-old left-back currently plays for Fulham and has since become a wanted man this month.
Interest Extremely High in Joe Bryan

Outside of the rumoured interest from Southampton, the Englishman has also attracted interest from both Watford and Serie A side Atalanta. The 26-year-old has become an extremely popular figure in recent weeks thanks to his ability as well as his strong injury history.

Joining Fulham from Bristol City last season, Joe Bryan made 28 English Premier League appearances for the Cottagers. Missing just five matches through injury, Joe Bryan also made 27 starts for the London-based club last season. Now six months into his second season with the side, Bryan has made an additional 26 appearances in the EFL Championship.

Showing incredible consistency, Bryan has also shown the ability to play multiple different positions. In fact, over the course of his career, Joe Bryan has made 109 appearances as a midfield player. An amazing number considering the Englishman has only made 152 appearances at his primary left-back position.

Combining all of this together along with Leicester City's interest in Ryan Bertrand and the £7-million Englishman is a player Southampton must land.



https://lastwordonfootball.com/2020/01/17/report-southampton-target-fulham-joe-bryan/

'This could be exciting', 'Fingers crossed' – Plenty of Fulham fans react as January announcement is made

Loads of Fulham fans have reacted after the club confirmed the loan signing of Huddersfield Town defender Terrence Kongolo.

The 25-year-old has arrived to bolster the Whites' defensive line, and is capable of playing both in the centre and on the left-hand side of defence, with Scott Parker no doubt hoping that he will help restore some solidity to the side.

This season has seen him make 11 second-tier appearances for The Terriers since their relegation from the Premier League, but he has not been involved in the matchday squad since the 5-2 loss to Bristol City at the end of November.

He was a regular throughout the club's second season in the Premier League, however, racking up 32 appearances as they plummeted to the foot of the table, notching one goal and an assist in the campaign.

Fulham certainly needed defensive reinforcements heading into this season but it is safe to say that not everyone is convinced by the signing...



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/this-could-be-exciting-fingers-crossed-plenty-of-fulham-fans-react-as-january-announcement-is-made/

Middlesbrough handed huge injury boost ahead of Fulham test

Jonathan Woodgate has confirmed that George Friend and Ryan Shotton are stepping up their recovery from injury and could return within 'a couple of weeks'.

Friend has featured just once since August after suffering a thigh and hip problem which plagued his pre-season preparations and subsequently ruled him out after returning to action against Queens Park Rangers.

As for Shotton, the defender has been out of action since October with an ankle injury.

The fitness update is excellent news for Middlesbrough, and while they won't be fit for the trip to Fulham, there's a hope that they'll return before February.

Elsewhere Woodgate provided an update on Daniel Ayala, Britt Assombalonga and Anfernee Dijksteel who are still some way from a return.

Speaking to the Middlesbrough website, Woodgate said: "No injuries from the other day.

"The ones who have been injured – Friend and Shotton are doing a lot of work on the grass at the minute, and they could be a couple of weeks away.

"Ayala, I would say four weeks, Britt we're not sure on yet and Dijksteel is another couple of months."

The verdict

The news of George Friend and Ryan Shotton's progress is great news.

Middlesbrough are desperately short of defensive options and have even considered the prospect of entering the transfer market as they seek cover for the coming months.

But with the duo close to a return then it's possible that Jonathan Woodgate will perhaps hold off and wait for his two experienced stars to make their comeback.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/middlesbrough-handed-huge-injury-boost-ahead-of-fulham-test/

Up next: Middlesbrough (h)

That scoreless draw up at the Riverside Stadium seems a lot longer ago than October. It was a strange sort of game – utterly disrupted by the early sending off of Marek Rodak, now firmly established as Scott Parker's number one, where Fulham might have felt a little aggrieved not to have grabbed all three points despite their numerical disadvantage. Middlesbrough, who badly lacked both penetration and creativity as the natives appeared restless with Jonathan Woodgate, looked set for a long season at the wrong end of the table.

Boro, though, are booming now. One thing Steve Gibson gives his managers is plenty of time, unlike most owners in the modern game. Woodgate was reassured by his chairman's regular encouragement, even after winning just two of his first seventeen matches in charge, and gradually things began to click. Confidence surged after a key victory at Barnsley and another impressive success at Charlton sparked a run of four straight wins over the festive period that saw a manager under pressure suddenly clutching the Championship manager of the month award.

Woodgate has placed plenty of faith in youngsters, befitting the club's history of bringing through talent from one of the country's most successful academy set-ups. Young Aynsley Pears, whose only first team experience prior to Darren Randolph getting injured in October came in non-league football, has been a revelation in goal. Djed Spence, who came through the Fulham academy before moving on last summer, has shone since being introduced at right back and he could well have another former Fulham youngster playing in front of him at Craven Cottage tonight after Patrick Roberts joined on loan from Manchester City. Early signs of the link-up between the two have been encouraging.

Middlesbrough's impressive revival has gone under the radar somewhat given how congested the top half of the Championship is at present. Remarkably, since a 4-0 hammering at Leeds in November, they have taken 17 points from a possible 24 – the best in the division. Only a late, late Derby equaliser prevented them from making it five wins in a row last weekend – and Woodgate's men head to London with the momentum, so crucial in this crazy league, right behind them.

There's no doubt Boro have plenty of quality. Dael Fry remains one of the most underrated centre halves in the league and young Nathan Wood, even at the tender age of 17, has the hallmarks of a player who could go all the way. The teenager is in line for a start, especially with Middlesbrough struggling for fit centre halves at the moment. The likes of Hayden Coulson, Marcus Tavernier, George Saville and Roberts – who were all rested for the FA Cup replay at Spurs in midweek – should come back into the side. The visitors might still be without star striker Britt Assombalonga, who has a history of troubling Fulham, but Woodgate can now call on the fit-again Rudy Gestede and Lucas Nmecha. There's also the in-form Ashley Fletcher, who has found the net in both of his last two away league games.

Fulham have been particularly flaky this season. Just when a humbling defeat at the hands of Reading on New Year's Day appeared to leave the automatic promotion positions out of reach, a gritty win at Hull left the tantalising prospect of catching the top two, who surrendered points at the same time, back on the table. That victory on Humberside was built on a clean sheet – with Michael Hector enjoying an promising league debut – and a doggedness rarely seen under Parker this season, with the manager leaving the likes of Tom Cairney and Harry Arter on the bench as the Whites produced the perfect away performance.

The big question will be how Parker decides to deal with the untimely absence of Aleksandar Mitrovic, who will be sidelined for at least three weeks after injuring his ankle ligaments in the second half at Hull. The absence of their talisman, who has scored 18 goals in 26 games, could be devastating as the Whites look to mount a promotion push – especially as Aboubakar Kamara, who deputised for the Serbian so ably against QPR earlier in the campaign, is also nursing an ankle problem. Parker will probably ask Bobby Decordova-Reid to fill a more advanced role, although Ivan Cavaleiro – who celebrated his permanent move to Craven Cottage with a stunning winner at Hull last weekend – operated as a false nine in the FA Cup win over Aston Villa. The romantic choice would be continuing Jay Stansfield's exceptional start to his Fulham career, although the 17 year-old is more likely to start on the bench.

Parker still has questions to ponder over the make up of the rest of his side. Denis Odoi did well to shackle Jarrod Bowen at the KCOM and could continue at left back, especially with a host of clubs apparently pursuing an interest in Joe Bryan, whilst Terence Kongolo's loan move from Huddersfield has probably come too late for him to slot straight into the back four this evening. The midfield might be missing Harrison Reid's bite, but Kevin McDonald shored things up impressively at Hull after an iffy start and his experience could be vital on a night when Fulham may need to be both patient and streetwise against tricky opponents.

MY FULHAM XI (4-3-3): Rodak; Christie, Odoi, Hector, Ream; McDonald, Onomah, Cairney; Knockaert, Cavaleiro, Decordova-Reid. Subs: Norman, S. Sessegnon, Mawson, Arter, Johansen, Kebano, Stansfield.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/01/up-next-middlesbrough-h-2/

Notes from January meeting with FFC

On Monday 13th January at 12:30, the Fulham Supporters' Trust met with Fulham FC at Motspur Park.

The Club was represented by:

    Alistair Mackintosh (CEO)
    David Daly (Non Executive Director)
    Nicola Walworth (Supporter Relations Manager)
    Katy Brecht (Head of Ticketing)
    Aimee McKenzie (Operations and Venue Director)
    Carmelo Mifsud (Communications Director)
    Charlie Harris (Communications Assistant)

The FST was represented by board members:

    Jerry Cope
    Dan Crawford

HOW IT WORKS

Each topic below is raised by the FST in an attempt to discuss issues raised primarily by a number of our members. Individual questions from members are sent to the Club outside the meeting, and we encourage members first to raise these directly with the Club via [email protected].

If any member has raised an issue that it has not been possible to discuss in the time available then please do contact us again in good time before the next meeting.

We encourage members to provide us with as much detail as possible (e.g. time, duration, date etc.) when raising issues either with the Trust or directly with the Club.
TOPICS DISCUSSED

The Trust informed the Club that the FST Board has been strengthened by the co-option of Derek Brewer, a Fulham fan and formerly Chief Executive of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, who now works with the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board).

The following topics were then raised and discussed:

    Catering
    Stewarding of home areas
    Homophobic chanting
    2020/21 season tickets
    January transfer window
    AOB

CATERING

Catering has been a regular topic at this season's meetings, particularly speed of service.  The Trust said that feedback from recent games (Stoke, Reading, Aston Villa) indicated that the speed of catering had improved, particularly by the pre-pouring of drinks, and we hoped this could be maintained or indeed improved further.

The Trust also asked about the mystery shopper exercise undertaken by the Club which was discussed at the December meeting. The Club explained that the issues raised by the exercise were similar to those reported by Trust members. The Club is now focusing on seeing whether healthy options can be added to the menus along with better signage and communications. The Trust was supportive of these further improvements.

The Club added that, in response to a previous suggestion from the Trust, at this Friday's game against Middlesbrough they will be trialling 'hawkers' in red coats at the Hammersmith End who will sell hot dogs only (as a start) to try to help ease congestion. Continuation of this scheme will be critically dependant on take-up. The Club was also pleased to note that the barista style coffee outlet at the Hammersmith End has been very successful.

We encourage supporters to use the new hawkers where possible to ensure their use is continued and expanded.  This will contribute towards alleviating the concourse congestion.

STEWARDING OF HOME AREAS

The Trust received a number of recent reports of identifiable away fans in home areas and asked about both tickets being in away fans' hands and also the protocol for stewards dealing with such fans.

The Club said that it had a zero tolerance policy towards Fulham fans buying tickets for away supporters who identified themselves by their actions etc, and asked supporters to make a note of where any such away fans were sitting and pass this information to the Club.

The Club explained that at the Aston Villa match a number of such away fans had been identified and ejected by stewards checking tickets on entry to the ground. If Fulham supporters notice away fans in home areas during a game they are asked to notify a steward who can pass the information via a supervisor to 'control'. The Trust said that, based on its reports, it was not clear that firm and visible enough action was being taken. All acknowledged that this was a difficult and sensitive area and it would be kept under close review.

The Trust also added that the blocking of stairways by stewards seemed to have improved recently but again asked that this continued to be spelt out in the pre-match briefing, especially to new stewards.
Where possible we asked that more help be given to supporters by stewards to find their seats, particularly given the layout of the Johnny Haynes stand.

The Trust noted that it was opening up separate channels of communication around the stewarding of away fans in away areas.

HOMOPHOBIC CHANTING

The Trust highlighted that supporters were becoming increasingly concerned by the prevalence of homophobic chants at both home and away matches and asked about protocols for handling complaints.

We were told that the Club followed a protocol when becoming aware of such chanting in an area of the ground. The Club encouraged the reporting of unacceptable behaviour to stewards or via the Kick It Out telephone number publicised at each game. If such reports are received within a game then the Club can make announcements in specified areas of the ground as had happened in the away section during the Reading game. Otherwise, if supporters do not wish to alert stewards on the day, the Club asked that supporters make a note of precisely where such behaviour was happening and inform them so that they can then monitor the area in future games.

The Trust noted that Hull, for instance, have their own well publicised phone and text number for quick in-game reporting of incidents by supporters, and asked if the Club could provide something similar. We were assured this is under consideration.

It was agreed that it is in everyone's interests to make the atmosphere at Fulham games as positive and inclusive as possible.

2020/21 SEASON TICKETS

In response to a question from the Trust, the Club said that it is too early even to start planning next season's ticket policy, not least because of the obvious uncertainty around which division we will be playing in. The Club intends to leave the decision as late as possible.

The Club did however add that it is very pleased with attendance levels at home and away games this season. The Club is also pleased with the operation of the season ticket exchange ticket system, which they encouraged more people to use when it is triggered, as will be the case as the season progresses.

JANUARY TRANSFER WINDOW

The Trust asked how activity in the transfer window will operate and pressed in particular on the involvement of the Head Coach and Tony Khan, the latter who clearly has other high profile business sometimes in America. Alistair Mackintosh responded that he had talked to Tony Khan every day at length, including weekends, since and before the window opened and both Tony Khan and Scott Parker were fully involved in planning strategy for the window. These two key individuals were supported by an experienced team analysing options etc. The Club would continue to support the Head Coach, within FFP rules, if he wanted to strengthen the squad.

At the time of the meeting the Club had no further news on the injury to Aleksandar Mitrović.

AOB
Manchester City ticketing and travel.

The Trust asked if there was going to be any support to help fans get to Manchester by 13:00 on a Sunday for the cup tie. The Club responded that prices had been set very low (£10 for adults) which was in their view very good value; coach prices had been set reasonably and they argued that the overall package was good value.  Fulham have agreed to take 5,000 tickets for the game, noting that Port Vale had managed to bring over 7,000 supporters to the previous round against City, although the Trust pointed out that that game was not on TV, and Port Vale was much closer to Manchester.
Charlton Athletic re-arranged fixture

The Club re-iterated that under EFL rules there was nothing that the Club could do about Charlton fixing the date of the forthcoming game, despite it unusually being at very short notice.
Pre-match announcement of the team

The Club said that it was the request of the first team that in the tweet giving the team the formation of players was not revealed any more.
Public Wi-Fi

The provision of public Wi-Fi for the whole ground is being considered as part of the Riverside Stand construction, but there are formidable technical difficulties.
Exiting the Hammersmith End

The Club explained that it is not possible under the Club's Safety Licence for exit from the Hammersmith End to be also via the Johnny Haynes stand.
Contracts for young players

There are very complex rules around contracts for young players and a lot depends on the attitude of the player. (The Trust would refer interested supporters to the full explanation given in the notes of our July 2019 meeting).
Issues at end of Hull City match

There had clearly been problems at the end of the Hull away game, and supporters are encouraged to notify Hull Supporter Liaison via [email protected] with full details of anything they experienced.
More information on Club medical staff

The Club will consider profiling the medical team and other less visible staff, but were concerned about singling out any one individual.
Hammersmith End congestion

The Club continues to give consideration to overcrowding on the concourse in the Hammersmith End, including access to toilets, and will ask stewards to move people along where appropriate.
Use of 'Live Tourism' services

When in the Premier League, the Club received six visits a year from an organisation called 'Live Tourism' on the ground experience and had made adjustments following their recommendations, but the EFL only provides one such visit a year.
Barnsley incident

The Club confirmed that the incident at the Barnsley away game was due in court in mid-February, and no further comment would be made until the case had concluded.

The meeting closed at 14:00



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2020/01/notes-from-january-meeting-with-ffc-2/

David Prutton predicts what will happen in Fulham's clash with Middlesbrough tonight

David Prutton has predicted Fulham to come out on top when they host in-form Middlesbrough at Craven Cottage on Friday night.

The Cottagers have been somewhat unpredictable over recent weeks as they've dropped points to sides such as Luton and Reading, before earning a good away win at Hull.

Middlesbrough have been on the surge of late, and Jonathan Woodgate managed to pick up the manager of the month award for December.

It will not be easy for Scott Parker's side, but if they want to challenge for the top two then they need to win their home fixtures. Prutton has predicted them to do just that, with a 2-1 victory.

Speaking in his Sky Sports column, Prutton said: "The door is starting to open for Fulham. West Brom and Leeds are dropping points and now they need to go on a run to really put that pressure on.

"This would have been a much easier-looking game a couple of months ago, but Middlesbrough have improved magnificently under Jonathan Woodgate. They will fancy their chances, but I fancy Fulham to sneak it."

The Verdict

Fulham really have to pick up another three points if they want to become serious challengers to the top two over the next few weeks. The Cottagers have a good side but have to be more consistent to challenge.

Boro will pose a big threat, and even at Tottenham in midweek they looked very dangerous going forward and a completely different side to the start of the season.

It should be an entertaining game, and one that both sides will be determined to get three points in. A loss for Fulham could really open the door for teams in and around the play-off spots to start gaining on Parker's side.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/david-prutton-predicts-what-will-happen-in-fulhams-clash-with-middlesbrough-tonight/

Joe Nicholson's starting XI to face Fulham - with FIVE changes from Tottenham defeat
Middlesbrough are preparing for their Championship meeting with Fulham at Craven Cottage – but who will start for Jonathan Woodgate's side?

The Boro boss is expected to make changes following Tuesday's FA Cup defeat at Tottenham, with the Teessiders hoping to extend their five-match unbeaten run in the Championship. Our Boro writer Joe Nicholson has picked the side he would choose to face Fulham – scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to see his selections:
1. GK: Aynsley Pears

Expected to return to the starting XI after missing the cup game at Tottenham.

2. RWB: Djed Spence

Has started Boro's last seven games in all competitions and continues to impress in the right wing-back role.

3. CB: Jonny Howson

Injuries have forced Woodgate to use Howson at centre-back but the 31-year-old has performed excellently.

4. CB: Paddy McNair

Another midfielder who has played at the back in recent weeks and performed well.

5. CB: Dael Fry

Boro's only fit centre-back right now. Has operated on the left of a back three.

6. LWB: Hayden Coulson

Rested at Spurs. Has been a key player for the Teessiders this season.

7. CM: Adam Clayton

Provides defensive protection in the middle of the park.

8. CM: George Saville

Made an impact off the bench at Tottenham. Will be expected to be recalled to the starting XI.

9. RW: Patrick Roberts

Impressed on his league debut against Derby last weekend.

10. LW: Marcus Tavernier

Another player who made an impact off the bench at Tottenham.

11. ST: Ashley Fletcher

Has scored four goals in his last seven games.



https://www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/sport/football/middlesbrough-fc/joe-nicholsons-starting-xi-face-fulham-five-changes-tottenham-defeat-1368109

'Good riddance' – Plenty of Huddersfield Town fans are delighted as defender's departure is confirmed

Huddersfield Town have recently announced that Terence Kongolo has left the club to join Fulham on loan for the remainder of the season.

The defender made 11 appearances for the Terriers in this year's campaign, and they've made the decision to move him on to one of their Championship rivals.

Kongolo links up with a Fulham team that are well in the hunt for promotion this season, with Scott Parker's men currently occupying a spot in the play-offs.

Huddersfield have recently added Richard Stearman to their squad from Sheffield United, which has seemingly pushed Kongolo further down the pecking order in Danny Cowley's plans.

The Terriers are struggling this season in the Championship, and are currently sat 20th in the second tier standings, and they're certain to be nervously looking over their shoulders.

Plenty of Huddersfield fans took to social media to issue their thoughts on Kongolo's temporary departure from the club.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/good-riddance-plenty-of-huddersfield-town-fans-are-delighted-as-defenders-departure-is-confirmed/

All the latest Fulham injury news right here

Fulham welcome Middlesbrough to Craven Cottage tonight to kick-off another weekend of Championship action as they look to move up into third place.

The Whites are looking to make it three wins on the bounce in all competitions after seeing off Aston Villa in the FA Cup and Hull City in the league, but Jonathan Woodgate's side will be no pushovers.

Boro have won four of their last five Championship clashes as things finally start to click under the club's ex-defender and a win for them tonight would see them rise to within five points of the top-six.

And they have been helped out by some injury news emerging from Craven Cottage.

Most notably that star-striker, and the second-tier's joint top-scorer, Aleksandar Mitrovic will be missing the match after damaging ankle ligaments in the 1-0 win against Hull City last-time out.

The marksman has rescued the Whites regularly this season so there is no doubt that they will be a weaker machine without the 18-goal Serbian in their side tonight.

However, that looks like being the only major absentee from the Fulham squad for the clash.

New signings Michael Hector, Jordan Archer and Terence Kongolo will all be available for selection and will no doubt make it difficult for Boro to break them down if they are picked to start.

Last time Fulham were made to do without Mitrovic they were not hampered either, beating local rivals QPR 2-1 at Craven Cottage, with Aboubakar Kamara stepping up impressively to score a brace.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/all-the-latest-fulham-injury-news-right-here-3/

The main talking points from Parker's Fulham press conference for Middlesbrough clash

Fulham welcome Middlesbrough to Craven Cottage tonight to kick-off another weekend of Championship action as they look to move up into third place.

The Whites are looking to make it three wins on the bounce in all competitions after seeing off Aston Villa in the FA Cup and Hull City in the league, but Jonathan Woodgate's side will be no pushovers.

Boro have won four of their last five Championship clashes as things finally start to click under the club's ex-defender and a win for them tonight would see them rise to within five points of the top-six.

And, as is customary, Scott Parker delivered his pre-match press conference ahead of the clash with Boro, and here are the main taling points.

The manager's update on the injury sustained by Aleksandar Mitrovic was the most eyecatching of the comments, with Parker suggesting that they thought the injury could have been much worse.

However, he will definitely miss the clash with Boro and possibly two or three more matches two with the Serbian now expected to sit out the next three weeks of action.

It was not all about Fulham, however, with Parker offering plenty of praise to the opposition and Woodgate in particular, insisting that he has done a very good job at the Riverside since coming in, also complementing their display against Tottenham Hotspur in midweek.

He was also quick to emphasise how tough their coming run of fixtures will be but also said that if they can get a good run of results through the coming patch then they will have a real shot at winning promotion.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/the-main-talking-points-from-parkers-fulham-press-conference-for-middlesbrough-clash/

Programme Peek

With the top two of West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United having a bit of a wobble, automatic promotion remains firmly on for Fulham. A win against Middlesbrough would move the Whites to within four points of the Elland Road outfit, for a few hours at least. Inconsistency has dogged Fulham this term, though, and Kevin McDonald knows that needs to change.

"Expectations are massive for Fulham because we've just come down and spent a bit of money and that contributed to us being one of the favourites to win the league," he tells Friday's official matchday programme. "We're inconsistent but we're still fourth. If we could have got on a good run, we'd probably be top two.

"The league is there for the taking, that's the most frustrating thing. We can see it and it's up to us to be mentally strong and go out there each week and work our socks off to win. We've got a good chance but we're 27 games in and the penny has to drop that we've got to go on a run. It's easy enough to say it, but we need to show we have what it takes.

"No one is really stringing a run of results together. West Brom and Leeds started the season on fire which is why they are where they are but they're slowly coming down and I still think we can catch them. The aim remains top two."


To read the full interview with McDonald, pick up a copy of the award-winning publication on Friday. Other highlights include interviews with Scott Parker, Tom Cairney, Michael Hector, Jonathan Greening, Gordon Davies and Les Strong plus the usual array of top-drawer features.

Priced £3.50, the 100-page publication is available from various sellers on Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Or order it online from ProgrammeMaster where you can also purchase past editions. For just £1.99, the programme is also available as a digital download on your iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, PC or Mac via Pocketmags right now.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/17/programme-peek

Danny Cowley makes admission on recent Huddersfield Town departure

Huddersfield Town manager Danny Cowley has commented on the departure of Dutch defender Terence Kongolo, who has joined Fulham until the end of the season.

The Terriers came down for the Premier League this season with a bunch of players still suffering from the hangover of their ill-fated top-flight campaign last term, one of those being defender Terence Kongolo, who arrived last season from Feyenoord.

This season hasn't been much kinder for the versatile defender as he has struggled for consistency in the side with irregular outings stemming from below-par performances along with injury issues.

The January transfer window has given Danny Cowley the chance to trim and strengthen his squad ahead of a relegation battle for the second half of the campaign, and Kongolo was one player that's future needed resolving this month.

Yesterday, it was confirmed that the 25-year-old was to join the Cottagers on-loan for the rest of the season, potentially putting an end to his pretty torrid spell at the John Smith's Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the Terriers' clash with Brentford on Saturday, manager Danny Cowley commented on Kongolo's departure and how the player's current career path is going. He stated (as quoted by Leon Wobschall): "We were pleased with the deal and finances associated with it. If Terence's head and heart are in the right place, he can be a top player."

Kongolo will now linkup with his new teammates to help push for success at the other end of the table to where Huddersfield are battling.

The verdict

In terms of outgoings at Huddersfield, shifting Kongolo out of the club this month should have been the top priority given that he was the club's record signing and presumably on a significant wage that can now be redistributed or saved.

There is no doubting that he has the ability to play higher than the Championship, having featured in the Champions League with Feyenoord, but as Cowley says, his attitude and focus need to be spot on going forward.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/danny-cowley-makes-admission-on-recent-huddersfield-town-departure/

Aleksandar Mitrovic shares personal injury update with Fulham fans

Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has shared an update with fans as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury suffered against Hull City last weekend.

The Serbian is set for at least two weeks on the sideline, meaning he will miss tonight's clash with Middlesbrough at Craven Cottage, but his latest update seemed to show that he is determined to be back as soon as possible.

He shared a short clip on his Instagram story where he appeared to be working on the strength of his ankle at the club's training ground:

(https://cdn.footballleagueworld.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/WhatsApp-Image-2020-01-17-at-08.23.07.jpeg)

It may only be a few league matches he ends up missing, but having already netted 18 times in the Championship – sitting top of the scoring charts alongside Brentford's Ollie Watkins – it will leave a big gap in Scott Parker's side.

Fulham currently sit in fourth place in the Championship heading into tonight's clash, knowing that a win against Jonathan Woodgate's men would see them move up into third.

A win would also make it three on the trot in all competitions for the Whites as hey look for an immediate return to the Premier League.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/aleksandar-mitrovic-shares-personal-injury-update-with-fulham-fans/

Predicted Middlesbrough XI v Fulham

Middlesbrough take on Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Championship this evening, with the away side hoping to make it six league games unbeaten.

Here is the predicted line up for Middlesbrough for tonight's fixture:

GK – Aynsley Pears
With Randolph departing and despite Dejan Stojanovic arriving, Pears is expected to be the club's number one.

RWB – Djed Spence
Spence substituted at Spurs in midweek to make sure he was fresh for a trip to his former-side Fulham and should start tonight.

RCB – Jonny Howson
Howson has filled in at the back like a true professional, excelling in the position despite being a natural midfielder.

CB – Paddy McNair
Similarly, McNair is a natural number eight but has done well in defence.

LCB – Dael Fry
The youngster is the only natural centre-back fit and is has played well in recent weeks.

LWB – Hayden Coulson
Coulson will come back into the side after dropping out against Tottenham.

CDM – Lewis Wing
Adam Clayton could be rested after playing the full 90 in the FA Cup on Tuesday, with Wing dropping deeper.

RCM – George Saville
Saville was brilliant off the bench against Spurs and should return to the starting eleven.

LCM – Marcus Tavernier
Similarly, Tavernier made an impact after coming on against Jose Mourinho's side and should be brought back into contention.

CAM – Patrick Roberts
Roberts was impressive in his first league start last weekend against Derby and will likely keep his place.

ST – Ashley Fletcher
Fletcher has been brilliant leading the line on his own and has four goals in his last six appearances.



https://the72.co.uk/154993/predicted-middlesbrough-xi-v-fulham/

From renting out the club car park to hosting WAKES: Bath City FC face battle to stay afloat amid £100,000-a-year losses... and now former Premier League striker Bobby Zamora has joined the fight

    Bath City FC, a National League South side, are losing around £100k every year
    The club need to find a way to replay a £1million debt by 2022
    They have been forced to host wakes and rent their car park out to raise funds
    A crucial council meeting set for February 12 that will decide their future

Former Premier League striker Bobby Zamora has joined the fight to save his cash-strapped former club.

The forward, 39, launched a successful career with 11 goals in eight games at Bath City in 2000, and later played for Brighton, Tottenham, West Ham, Fulham and QPR, as well as winning two England caps.

The National League South side – losing £100,000 a year - could go under if Bath & North East Somerset Council reject the planning application to develop the ground at a key meeting on February 12.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/01/17/16/23530230-0-image-m-4_1579278731199.jpg)
Bobby Zamora has returned to his former club Bath City FC to help them out of trouble

Zamora told the Times: 'Bath gave me a chance of men's football. It was a baptism of fire, the Dr Martens Premier at the time, getting lumps kicked out of me.

'I've great memories of Bath. The fans were great, a real hardcore set, always vocal. I was there six weeks, played eight games, scored 11 goals and could go back to Bristol Rovers and look Ian Holloway in the eye.'

Bath are desperate to raise money. They are renting out the car park, using some areas as a gym and – round the corner from Haycombe Cemetery and Crematorium – even hosting wakes.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/01/17/17/23531328-0-image-m-12_1579280846052.jpg)
Bath City are losing £100,000 a year and need to come up with a solution to stay afloat

The club has teamed up with Greenacre Capital for a redevelopment introducing corporate facilities, increasing the stadium capacity and adding a 3G pitch, with student accommodation built on-site providing revenue to fund the project.

Local-born Bath manager Jerry Gill said: 'The redevelopment's an absolute no-brainer. We need it to get over the line.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/01/17/17/23531314-0-image-a-8_1579280647080.jpg)
The club hope to redevelop their ground in order to generate greater revenue

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/01/17/16/23531156-0-image-m-6_1579280382027.jpg)
The plans include building student housing and developing the nearby high street

'If we don't get planning, I guess we might have to sell the land for supermarkets, for housing, because there is a £1 million debt to be repaid by 2022.'

Saturday's home game against Hemel Hempstead Town set to raise awareness of the club's plight ahead of the council meeting on February 12.

Zamora concluded: 'I'd like to think the council will back Bath. They have an opportunity to save the club.

'Twerton Park is a lovely ground with a lot of history. Bath are a community club, a big part of Bath. It would be a shame to see it go.'


Bath City FC are asking fans and locals for their opinion on the development plans. If you are affected by this issue and want to have a say you can do so here.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7900055/Bath-City-FC-face-battle-stay-afloat-amid-100-000-year-losses.html

Fulham v Middlesbrough Preview: Can Boro secure a vital win
Middlesbrough face Fulham on Friday night as they look to continue their good run of form.

Boro have not lost in their last five League games but face an in-form Fulham side.

The biggest talking point before the game was the news of the extent of the injury to Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Mitrovic was stretched off in Saturday's win at Hull City and has been ruled out for two to three weeks.

Middlesbrough will see his absence as a boost with the forward netting 44% of Fulham's goals this season.

Boro have injury issues of their own with Britt Assombalonga yet to recover from a niggling ankle problem.

Middlesbrough have a good record at Craven Cottage, with Boro yet to lose their in their last two matches. The away side also have momentum on their side, picking up 17 points in their last eight games in the league, winning five of the matches.

Ashley Fletcher will be the man that Boro will turn to, with the striker netting in his last two away games in the League.

A win would take Fulham to third in the table and within four points of second-placed Leeds United, while a victory for Middlesbrough would take the club two places to 14th in the table.

This game has goals written over it with Woodgate's men hoping to come out with a positive result.



https://www.oneboro.co.uk/boro-news/fulham-v-middlesbrough-preview-can-boro-secure-a-vital-win-17120