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Mitrovic absence is a boost for Charlton Athletic – but Fulham have quality options in their squad


Lee Bowyer has admitted that Aleksandar Mitrovic's absence is a boost as Charlton head into tomorrow's derby with Fulham.

The Serbian striker has racked up the goals in the Championship this season – 18 in 26 appearances – before injuring his ankle at Hull City.

Mitrovic is definitely out of the fixture at The Valley.

Fulham did win in his absence on Friday night as Anthony Knockaert's early goal settled their clash with Middlesbrough at Craven Cottage.

Bowyer said: "He [Mitrovic] is a massive player for them. It's a bit like Lyle [Taylor] being out for us – the main striker in the team, a player who can make the difference

"But they have got so many good players. He'll come out but they'll bring in another Premier League player. They could start with Kamara and he played in the Premier League for them. That's the difference in squads – whoever they bring in will be a good player."

"They looked very good on Friday, didn't they? It could have been seven. They created so many clear-cut chances.

"They looked very good.

"We'll have to be at our very best to get anything out of the game.

"They are a very, very good side but we're at home, I know the fans will get behind us and my players will give everything.

"It was just a bit of quality in the final third which let us down at the weekend. We got into good positions in the second half when we changed shape. If we get any chances against Fulham we have to be ruthless in front of goal.

"They like to dictate possession, which is fine. We did really well over there [earlier in the season]. We've got to be solid and take our chances when they come."

PICTURE BY SEAN GOSLING



https://www.londonnewsonline.co.uk/mitrovic-absence-is-a-boost-for-charlton-athletic-but-fulham-have-quality-options-in-their-squad/

Update emerges in Fulham's pursuit of transfer deal

Burnley have reportedly rejected loan offers for Ben Gibson, according to a Sky Sports reporter.

Keith Downie has today revealed that Sean Dyche has rejected several loan offers for Ben Gibson, with Fulham, Middlesbrough and Huddersfield showing an interest.

It's said to Dyche wants to find a replacement for the defender before he allows him to leave:

Fulham have been in the market for defenders all month – on New Year's Day, Michael Hector completed his transfer from Chelsea, whilst Terrence Kongolo signed on-loan from Huddersfield last week.

Gibson, 27, looks set to become Fulham's third defensive signing of the window – he's not featured in the Premier League all season, and only has one League Cup appearance to his name, having sat most of his season either on the sidelines or on the bench.

It's been a good month for Fulham in terms of transfers – Hector has come straight into the first-team and is already winning over a lot of fans, whilst the permanent signing of Ivan Cavaleiro looks to have given the player and the fans a huge boost.

The verdict

Whether or not Fulham need another defender is debatable, but Gibson would be a fine addition to any Championship squad. He's proven himself at this level with Middlesbrough and it's astonishing how he's been such an outcast at Burnley this season.

Fulham could be a good fit for Gibson, and alongside Hector it could make for a promotion-winning partnership.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/update-emerges-in-fulhams-pursuit-of-transfer-deal/

Manchester United 'preparing £43m bid' for Moussa Dembele as they look to hijack Chelsea's pursuit of Lyon star

    Manchester United are heavily depleted in attack after Marcus Rashford's injury
    The Red Devils are reportedly eyeing up Lyon striker Moussa Dembele
    The Chelsea target has scored 13 goals in 28 games for Lyon this season

Manchester United have joined Chelsea in the race for Moussa Dembele by 'preparing a £43million bid' for the Lyon striker.

According to Foot Mercato, the Red Devils are set to make an initial offer of £43m plus bonuses for the former Fulham and Celtic forward.

United's problems in attack have increased in the past week following Marcus Rashford's injury after the England striker was ruled out for up to three months with a double stress fracture in his back suffered in their FA Cup third-round replay win over Wolves.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/01/21/10/23673274-7911079-image-a-32_1579603222850.jpg)
Manchester United are 'preparing a £43million bid' for Lyon striker Moussa Dembele

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According to Foot Mercato, United's offer will include bonuses for the 23-year-old forward

The 22-year-old striker has struggled with a back problem for some time and uses a Melmak fracture healing device to ease the pain with ultrasound.

And with Rashford out for the foreseeable future, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has only Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood at his centre-forward disposal.

And in a bid to ease the burden on Martial and Greenwood, Solskjaer has reportedly turned his attention toward luring Dembele to Old Trafford.

The 23-year-old, who is also a Chelsea target, has scored 13 goals in 28 appearances in all competitions this season - including the decisive strike in their 4-3 Ligue 1 win at Nantes on Saturday.

Despite the wide-ranging interest in the striker, Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has ruled out selling Dembele in January.

Speaking on RMC last week, he said: 'We have not changed our minds. We already made this issue clear in August.

'Moussa is an excellent player. A player who we need.

'We are taking explicit measures in our recruitment to not bring someone in who will compete for his position. It is not a question of money. Moussa will be with us.'



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7911079/Manchester-United-preparing-43m-bid-Lyons-Moussa-Dembele-bid-usurp-Chelsea.html

Burnley Reject Fulham, Middlesbrough and Huddersfield Offers For Clarets Star

Burnley have knocked back three Championship loan offers for centre-back Ben Gibson and want to sign a replacement before letting him leave, according to Sky Sports News.

Gibson joined the Clarets from Middlesbrough in the summer of 2018, but has made just six appearances for the club since then. 

He is a peripheral figure in Sean Dyche's squad and has only featured once this season in an EFL Cup game, which Burnley lost at Sunderland.

The 27-year-old is keen on a move this month in order to play more football and several clubs in the Championship are interested in securing his services.

The trio of Fulham, Middlesbrough and Huddersfield Town made offers to sign him on loan until the end of the season.

But Burnley have rejected all three offers and for the moment, they want to hold on to Gibson.

Dyche is not prepared to let him go, despite the defender not playing once in the Premier League this season, without signing a replacement.

The Burnley manager is not keen to weaken his squad in the middle of the season and hence, Gibson continues to be at Turf Moor.



Read more: http://www.insidefutbol.com/2020/01/21/burnley-reject-fulham-middlesbrough-and-huddersfield-offers-for-clarets-star/449219/#ixzz6Bfd6oIis

Report: Fulham and Bournemouth want £8m attacker from Yorkshire-based club

Isaac Mbenza hasn't played a Championship game for Huddersfield Town since October - but is the winger heading back to the Premier League?

Fulham and Bournemouth are showing an interest in Isaac Mbenza with another winger expected to leave Huddersfield Town before the end of the January transfer record, as reported by L'Equipe.

As it stands, it seems only a matter of time before forgotten man Adama Diakhaby is unveiled by The Terriers' Championship rivals Nottingham Forest. Like the former Monaco man, Mbenza swapped French football for the John Smith's Stadium in the summer of 2018 and has failed to make the impact expected in the English second tier.

The former Belgium U21 international, an £8 million signing from Montpellier, has found himself out of favour since Danny Cowley took over in Yorkshire and has not been included in a matchday squad since October.

And reports that Fulham and Bournemouth are interested in offering Mbenza a fresh start will be music to Cowley's ears as the former Lincoln City boss aims to raise funds for new additions.

Bournemouth have scored just once in their last seven Premier League games, a shocking tally which has Eddie Howe's side facing up to the very real threat of relegation.

Star striker Callum Wilson has been starved of service but Mbenza hardly set the world alight in the first division last season and, should he fail on the south coast, questions will once again by asked about a manager whose recruitment remains a real blot against his reputation.

Fulham, meanwhile, may be hoping that the chance to link up with Aleksandar Mitrovic, Anthony Knockaert, Bobby Reid and co will coax the best out of a winger with pace to burn.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/01/21/report-fulham-and-bournemouth-want-8m-attacker-from-yorkshire-ba/

David Prutton predicts the outcome of Charlton's clash with Fulham on Wednesday

David Prutton has stated that he thinks Fulham will come away with a point from their meeting with Charlton on Wednesday night.

Both teams come into the game on very different form with Fulham fighting for an automatic promotion place whilst the Addicks are trying their best to steer clear from relegation.

Charlton have now just won once in their last 16 games and Lee Bowyer is in desperate need of some new players, with the squad depth struggling to cope with the demands of the division.

Fulham seem to have turned a corner since a defeat to Reading at the start of the January. The Cottagers have now won their last three in all competitions.

Prutton has predicted it to be a close game, and has gone for a 1-1 draw between the two sides when they meet in the week.

Speaking in his Sky Sports column, Prutton said: "Charlton still have some business to do between now and Deadline Day. They still look short a few players and that showed in their defeat against Preston on Saturday.

"Fulham are right back in the thick of things and West Brom and Leeds dropping points will give them real hope of pushing for automatic promotion. This could be the game where they struggle a little without Aleksandar Mitrovic, though. Score draw."

The Verdict

It should be a really interesting game between two sides that have had very different seasons so far, yet both somehow still feel a bit underwhelmed.

Charlton have been poor in recent weeks and the injury toll has effected their season in an unimaginable manner that has seen them creep closer and closer to the relegation zone.

Fulham are now fighting for the top two, but it took them awhile to get properly started. Although they've been good, they haven't yet shown any reason why they are one of the best in the division and still suffer with inconsistency.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/david-prutton-predicts-the-outcome-of-charltons-clash-with-fulham-on-wednesday/

AFC Bournemouth battling Fulham to sign Isaac Mbenza, claims report

CHERRIES are battling Fulham to sign Huddersfield Town winger Isaac Mbenza, according to L'Equipe.

The 23-year-old has fallen out of favour with the Terriers, featuring just six times this season.

His most recent outing came in a Championship win at Stoke City in October.

And in a report translated from French publication L'Equipe, the former Montpellier man "is the subject of a fight between Fulham and Bournemouth".

Mbenza joined Huddersfield on loan last season, featuring 22 times in the Yorkshire club's failed attempt at avoiding relegation from the Premier League.

He made his move permanent in the summer, but has not been able to add to his solitary goal for the club, which came in a 1-1 draw against Manchester United in May.

Mbenza featured for Belgium at the European Under-21 Championships last summer.



https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/sport/18175327.afc-bournemouth-battling-fulham-sign-isaac-mbenza-claims-report/

1 winner and 1 loser if Fulham complete deal for 23-y/o

Fulham are set to fight it out with AFC Bournemouth for Huddersfield Town winger Isaac Mbenza.

The midfielder hasn't played a Championship game for the Terriers since October and is clearly not in Danny Cowley's current plans.

Mbenza has found it difficult to make an impact in the second-tier of English football, and it looks as though the 23-year-old is going to be offered a way out of the Yorkshire club.

Here's ONE winner and ONE loser if Fulham manage to secure a deal for the winger...

Winner – Scott Parker

The manager would be delighted to bring in a player of his calibre who did prove that he could compete at a high level during his days in France. Parker would see this as a big step to filling the void of the injured Aleksandar Mitrovic and a way of adding some more flair to Fulham.

At times they can look very slow on the transition, and Mbenza is a player who could change that and get the ball up the pitch quickly and scare opposition defenders. Just because Cowley couldn't get the best out of him, doesn't mean that another manager won't be able to.

Loser – Anthony Knockaert

It could spell serious worry for Knockaert out on the wing for Fulham. He's a good player and everyone knows the ability that he has but at this current moment in time, he hasn't been as good as previous seasons and disappears to often.

The ex Brighton winger had a good game against Middlesbrough, but he'll have to have more of them if he's going to keep out an energetic Mbenza from the team. If he continues to perform then there's no reason why he wouldn't keep his spot, but he can sulk when not in a starting XI so it'll be interesting to see what effect this competition has on him.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/1-winner-and-1-loser-if-fulham-complete-deal-for-23-y-o/

Charlton squad news confirmed for Fulham clash

Richard Cawley from the South London Press has revealed that no new signings are expected by Charlton Athletic ahead of their midweek clash against Fulham tomorrow afternoon.

The Addicks have missed the cutoff point, 12pm today, to register new signings that would have been available to feature against Fulham, and Lee Bowyer will have to make do with the same squad of players that has been done him well since the start of the season.

The Championship club are currently showing interest in Peterborough United attacking midfielder Marcus Maddison, and have had a bid accepted by the League One club, however contract talks have stalled lately as Charlton look to get the deal over the line.

Maddison isn't the only player that Charlton have been linked with lately, as Bowyer hopes to add Rangers midfielder Greg Docherty to his squad at The Valley, with the Addicks currently leading the race for him.

Fresh reports also emerged over the weekend that Bowyer is chasing Bristol Rovers duo, striker Jonson Clarke-Harris and central midfielder Ollie Clarke, as he hopes to make improvements to his squad.

The Verdict

Bowyer is hoping for fresh reinforcements to his squad as he aims to pull the Addicks up the table and consolidate their place in mid-table, where they would be safe from relegation.

With the transfer deadline being 10 days away, Bowyer has time on his side and isn't being rushed into any panic buys at The Valley as he has carefully scouted and considered the players that he is showing a firm interest in.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/charlton-transfer-development-emerges-ahead-of-midweek-clash/

Aleksandar Mitrovic offers insight into recovery from injury as he pushes for Fulham return

Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has given an insight into his recovery from an ankle injury that is set to see him miss a handful of games for the Whites.

The Serbian limped off the field when Scott Parker's side beat Hull City 1-0 two weeks ago and, although Fulham managed to beat Middlesbrough without him on Friday, fans will still be eager to see him return as soon as possible.

But Mitrovic was clearly keen to show that he is doing all he can in his recovery, sharing two videos on his Instagram story working on the strength of the injured area.

So far this season the 25-year-old has netted 18 times in the second-tier, proving a crucial cog in the Fulham machine as they look to make an immediate return to the Premier League.

The Whites currently sit in third place with their most recent win against Boro narrowing the gap on the automatic promotion places to just four points.

They will have the chance to close that gap to just one point on Wednesday night as well when they travel to Charlton Athletic, although Mitrovic will still be absent from Parker's side.

The verdict

Mitrovic is clearly the type of player who will despise being away from the first-team with an injury, so expect him to be doing everything he can to return to full fitness as soon as possible.

However, he has to be careful not to rush. Missing two or three matches is fine as long as he comes back fully fit. If he hurries it though, he could well end up missing more games altogether.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/aleksandar-mitrovic-offers-insight-into-recovery-from-injury-as-he-pushes-for-fulham-return/

Exclusive: Fulham man considering future as Lincoln City and Bristol Rovers circle

Fulham goalkeeper Magnus Norman is considering his future with the Whites after making just two appearances so far this season.

A source close to the player has exclusively told Football League World Chief Editor Sam Rourke that the 23-year-old is now considering a move away from South West London this month with Lincoln City, Bristol Rovers and MK Dons all potential destinations for the youngster.

Norman has risen through the ranks of the Whites youth system, enjoying spells out on loan with Franborough, Hayes and Yeading, Stockport and Rochdale.

His spell at Spotland last season saw him rack-up 12 appearances, keeping four clean sheets, and he will have been hopeful of pushing on with his parent club in the second-tier.

However he has only been involved in the match-day squad on two occasions in the Championship and has been limited to appearances in the EFL Trophy and the reserve side.

Marek Rodak, who is the same age as Norman, is the shot-stopper who Scott Parker has shown the most faith in so far this term, starting him in the club's last 13 league outings.

With Jordan Archer arriving in the current transfer window too, Norman will likely see his chances of playing in the first team shrinking even smaller.

With 28 matches played Fulham currently sit on the cusp of the automatic promotion spots, just four points behind second-placed Leeds United.

That gap could narrow to just one point on Wednesday night if Parker and co. are able to see off Charlton Athletic at The Valley, although they will have to continue to do so without star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/exclusive-fulham-man-considering-future-as-lincoln-city-and-bristol-rovers-circle/

An obsession with replacing Patrick Bamford with Che Adams, stubborn Marcelo Bielsa repeating last season's mistakes and their famed defence is in meltdown.... Why Leeds United are falling apart AGAIN in their Championship promotion bid

    Leeds have won just one of their last seven games in the Championship
    The gap to third place has shrunk to just four points and they are struggling
    Their recent decline brings up worrying echos of last season's late collapse
    Sportsmail has taken a look at why they have been struggling in recent weeks

Leeds might be second in the Championship but they have won just one of their last seven games and the gap to third place has been shrinking as the weeks go by — they are just four points ahead of Fulham.

It feels like the same situation as last season, when they topped the table at Christmas only to drop into the play-off places by the end of the campaign. After Saturday's loss at QPR, they look incredibly vulnerable to another miserable end to the season.

Sportsmail has taken a look at why they have been struggling in recent weeks...

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Leeds are one of the strongest sides in the Championship but have struggled in recent weeks

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They have won just one of their last seven games in the league and it is becoming an issue

The sheer lack of goals from Patrick Bamford

As Leeds overcame Birmingham 5-4 in late December, hitting the back of the net did not seem to be much of a problem. Compare and contrast to this weekend, when a sixth straight hour went by without a Leeds player scoring.

Goals have dried up from other positions, with neither Jack Harrison or Helder Costa contributing since that Birmingham clash. But a bigger issue is the form of Patrick Bamford.

Leeds must be the only side in English football — possibly the world — who have just one senior striker. The onus is on Bamford on a weekly basis.

But he is currently on a bad run. The former Chelsea man impresses with his build-up play and on Saturday against QPR did brilliantly to craft an opportunity for himself from a goal kick, only to spoon the ball straight over the bar.

When Bamford is on a run without a goal, he struggles to pull himself out of it. If you look at his record, that is clear. He is a streaky striker.

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The goals have dried up for Patrick Bamford, who is the only senior striker at the club

Even taking a penalty on Saturday was not enough to end his run of not scoring since December 21. His tame effort never looked like it would go in.

Bamford might just not be a natural finisher, given the quality of chances he has and the number he scores.

He has bagged two of his 50-plus shots outside of the six-yard box but in the area in this season. He's also got an xG of 15.2 and an actual tally of just 10, so is underperforming massively.

It might be the simplest point of all time, but Leeds are currently facing up to one of the basic rules of football — if you don't score, you won't win. Bamford is an issue there.

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Bamford had a penalty saved during the defeat against QPR on Saturday afternoon

Marcelo Bielsa's stubbornness and his insistence on a small squad
It is important to caveat any criticism of Marcelo Bielsa with the fact that without the Argentine, Leeds would simply not be in the conversation when it comes to automatic promotion.

He has changed the club entirely and turned a team of mid-table Championship players into consistent promotion challengers.

But anyone who has followed Bielsa's career knows there is always a down moment in any season and part of the blame has to be put at his door.

The truth is that 'Bielsa burnout', as it is known, is not really a quantifiable issue. Leeds' players ran as much as ever in the second half of last season. The problem might be the lack of players being asked to do that.

Bielsa likes to work with a squad of about 18 senior players and then fill any gaps with youth team players.

That is just not enough for a Championship campaign where teams go through spells of playing every Saturday and Tuesday. It means he has had to turn to the likes of Jordan Stevens in the last two matches to try and change a game. Stevens is 19-year-old with no Championship starts to his name.

Leeds also only have two senior central defenders and planned to have just two senior pure strikers.

Any fan of the Elland Road side would have said one of the issues last season was the small squad and how changes could not be made. Instead of changing his outlook, Bielsa doubled down on it.

Sometimes, his refusal to alter his philosophy can be killer for Leeds.

The lack of squad rotation... and how it cost them with Eddie Nketiah

Mateusz Klich has started 76 Championship and play-off games in a row for Leeds. To put it another way, he has played around 7,408 minutes of football for club and country in a year and a half or about 82 full games.

In the modern game, that is almost unheard of and it is no surprise that Klich ends most games looking as though he has not slept for a week.

Bielsa is not a manager for squad rotation and that has caused two serious problems this season.

Firstly, the players already look tired. Performing at a high level every game is almost impossible and it is mental fatigue that is as much of a problem as any physical issues.

Rotation is great just because it keeps players on their toes. If they know someone can come in the next week if they do not live up to expectations, they ensure they keep performing to a high level.

The other problem is what happened with Eddie Nketiah as a result of the lack of changes. Nketiah made cameo appearances but was not given a start in the first few months of the season.

Then Bielsa decided he would start at Sheffield Wednesday, only for the Arsenal striker to suffer an injury in training the day before the game. His chance was gone.

It would take until Birmingham and an injury to Bamford for him to get a start. He would then play the next game too. But by then Arsenal had told Leeds he would be recalled.

Leeds could have forcibly kept hold of Nketiah in January by ensuring he played enough minutes, per the terms of the loan deal, but that was almost impossible when he was not being given much of a shot in the league.

Some rotation would have changed that.

Transfer market failings and being stuck on Che Adams

The deal for Nketiah must fall into this category, given Leeds paid a fee up front and got none of it back when he returned to Arsenal. What has happened since he left has been as much of a problem.

There was a distinct possibility Nketiah would return to Arsenal from October or November onwards, when the minutes stopped adding up and mixed messages started coming out of the Emirates.

Leeds did start looking for new strikers and told Bielsa they could get hold of Che Adams, who he took a liking to after some analysis, along with a number of others.

Sometimes when Bielsa settles on a player it is impossible to turn him elsewhere — as happened in the summer when he became fixated on signing Helder Costa —  and this is an issue.

Leeds are still in for Adams but Southampton manager Ralph Hassenhuttl is not keen for him to leave. The owners would happily let him go and they are likely to improve up front in the summer yet it is hard to go against a manager who is performing in the league.

It means Leeds are now into the fourth week of January with just one striker and need to get a move on. Bielsa himself said on Saturday: 'If you ask us if we miss Nketiah, of course because he was our second centre forward, or the first one.'

In truth, Leeds are actually having to sign a first-choice striker this window, given Bamford's struggles in front of goal. Bielsa is stuck on Adams. The likes of Andre Gray, another option, might have to be moved on to sooner rather than later.

The defence has collapsed

At half-time in the game against Cardiff just before Christmas, Leeds had gone 441 minutes without conceding. They went 3-0 up at the start of the second-half yet somehow collapsed before the end to draw 3-3.

Since then, they have struggled at the back. They have conceded 10 goals in just six games.

The backline has been unsettled but it has also just not performing as it did. At one stage, teams really did struggle to break through. QPR just walked through time and time again.

Kiko Casilla's form has dipped off, although he was better on Saturday. The first strike he conceded against Sheffield Wednesday was diabolical, sneaking in at his near post.

Leeds have also started struggling from set pieces again, as evidenced by the early goal they conceded at West Brom. In all, their leaky defence is costing them goals and they cannot react.

Injury problems

Part of Bielsa's faith in a small squad is his assumption that players will stay fit — and the fact he will not replace them so they do not find themselves doubled up on when they return to fitness.

In two cases, Leeds are starting to look particularly vulnerable to injury.

Adam Forshaw, who Bielsa views as one of the most important players in the Leeds squad, has been out since before the Derby match on September 21. His hip issue was only meant to rule him out for that game.

There is little indication of when he could be back. It is leaving a gaping hole in the squad.

Tyler Roberts, meanwhile, is another key player who has been out. He's a crucial creative option in midfield and can play up front. If he was fit, it would not be a surprise to see him take over from Bamford.

But Roberts has managed just 11 appearances all season and has got into a worrying habit of returning from injury, playing for a few weeks, and then finding himself out again. He played just 10 minutes on his return at Birmingham before being ruled out.

It is likely no more than bad luck for both yet misfortune is costing Leeds.

Players being played out of position

Stuart Dallas, a winger, has played at full-back, in central midfield and on the wing this season. Gjanni Alioski, another winger, has also played in those three roles.

Pablo Hernandez is primarily a forward but often operates as a central midfielder. Full-back Gaetano Berardi has only played in the centre this season.

Leeds have failed to nail down a left-back all campaign and it is costing them, with that position looking particularly vulnerable. Barry Douglas has been the only orthodox player used there, and the choice to rotate between Dallas and Alioski in his absence has not helped.

Bielsa's willingness to experiment has benefited certain players, but at other times the lack of nous that comes with a position you've played your entire life rears its ugly head.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/01/20/10/23628340-7907201-image-a-19_1579517541956.jpg)
Results mean the gap between Leeds and third place has shrunk to just four points



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7907201/Why-Leeds-falling-apart-Championship-promotion-bid.html

Leeds United and Fulham bizarrely linked with West Brom midfielder

West Brom transfer news | Leeds United and Fulham are among four clubs in the Championship who have been credited with an interest in Albion midfielder Rekeem Harper

West Brom midfielder Rekeem Harper has been the subject of speculation this month regarding a potential loan spell.

It's understandable, of course, that Albion might seek to find a taker - preferably at Championship level - so that the teenager might get some regular game-time in the way that teammates Sam Field and Jonathan Leko have done at Charlton Athletic this term.

It's bizarre, however, that Leeds United have been credited with an interest in taking Harper on a loan basis until the end of the season.

The Sun this week claim that the Whites are considering contacting the Baggies over his potential availability, while Fulham, Charlton and Queens Park Rangers have also been linked.

Regardless of how crucial or otherwise Harper is to Albion's immediate set-up, the likelihood of them parting with a player to strengthen the hand of a fellow promotion candidate, in the form of Leeds or Fulham, is remote indeed.

Harper has played in the cup games against Millwall back in August and at the Addicks earlier this month, but his only league appearance was as a late substitute on the opening day win at Nottingham Forest.

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Rekeem Harper of West Bromwich Albion is held by James Vennings of Charlton Athletic

Harper, who was given a fair crack under Darren Moore and latterly Jimmy Shan in the Championship last season, hasn't been able to maintain those standards and Slaven Bilic has spoken previously about how he needs more by the way of application to be considered for match-day duties in the first team.

That said, Bilic did add after the win over Charlton at The Valley, where Harper played all but the entire match, that he'd been keen on retaining him this month if he was able to offer up such performances in the future.

"That's why I clapped him at the end," Bilic said, after that FA Cup victory at the beginning of January. "I thought he was very powerful, dominant in midfield alongside Barry.

"He didn't make mistakes on the ball, he was very aggressive, he was almost never out of position. He got a big plus.

"If we think about him and only him, then a loan could help him, but I have to put the club in the first place. Especially when he plays like this, I would rather keep him. Definitely."



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/leeds-united-fulham-bizarrely-linked-17604925

Fulham join race to sign attacker

Fulham are eyeing up a move for Huddersfield Town's Isaac Mbenza, according to L'Equipe.

The 23-year-old hasn't featured for the Terriers since the start of October, and now Fulham along with Bournemouth are said to be lining up a move for the winger.

He swapped southern France for the north of Yorkshire two years ago, joining Huddersfield from Montpellier for £8 million.

A representative of Belgium at U17, 19 and 21 level, Mbenza's Premier League dream didn't go accordingly and now he finds himself an outcast at a team facing relegation to League One.

But Fulham could hand him a lifeline this month. Scott Parker has already overseen an impressive transfer window, with Michael Hector arriving from Chelsea, Ivan Cavaleiro making his loan-move from Wolves permanent, and Terrence Kongolo coming in on-loan from Huddersfield.

The verdict

Mbenza has played just five games in the Championship for Huddersfield this season, but has played just twice since Danny Cowley's appointment back in September – under the ex-Lincoln City boss, Mbenza has amassed just 65 minutes of league football.

He was a proven goalscorer in France and a player that held so much promise, but Huddersfield made some terrible signings in the Premier League, and their misfortune and over-spending has them back at square one.

Whether or not it's a signing that Fulham need right now is debatable, but Mbenza's quality and potential is not – he looks to be fed up with life at Huddersfield and who can blame him, after their dismal showing in the Premier League last time round.

Teams always need numbers going into the business end of the season, but are Fulham ready to pay up for Mbenza? They've got two weeks to decide.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-join-race-to-sign-attacker/

Head Coach press conference

Scott Parker wants Fulham to focus on our own results, ahead of the midweek trip to Charlton Athletic.

With Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion both losing, victory at the Valley would move the Whites to within two points of top spot in the Championship.

Parker, though, knows the importance of keeping feet on the ground.


"We're in a good position at this moment in time and we go there on Wednesday night with a positive result," he said. "We're looking at the right end of the table, but ultimately we can only control what we control.

"If Leeds or West Brom are slipping up or are out of form then you need to react to that and you need to get results.

"First and foremost we need to concentrate on us, and let's see where it gets us. I realise the dynamics of this division, and as soon as you take your eye off it then this league has got a habit of biting you.

"We understand the difficulties [Wednesday] is going to bring. A London derby, a team at the other end of the table, but Lee Bowyer – who I know very well – will have them fighting.

"They're going to give everything and we'll have a battle on our hands come Wednesday night. We're going to have to earn the right at times and try and stamp our authority on it."

Parker was a hero in SE7 after coming through the youth system, but some Addicks fans have still not forgiven his departure to Chelsea in January 2004.


"I've been back as a player, and it's always special to go back to Charlton where it all started for me," he stated.

"I was at the football club when I was eight years old and got the opportunity to make a name for myself and do something I love doing.

"I didn't leave on the best of terms, it's fair to say, and when I have gone back I've not got the best reception.

"Time goes on, I now go back for the first time as a coach. I'm looking forward to it, of course I am. There'll be some familiar faces along the way as well, so it should be good.

"I had some amazing years there. Every time I put the shirt on I gave everything I had, and those days were very good for me."

When asked by the press if Aleksandar Mitrović or Aboubakar Kamara could return for the match, Parker replied: "Neither of them will be ready for the game against Charlton.

"Mitrović is progressing well but still not ready for this game, and the same with Kamara.

"Other than that, we're a little bit light, we've got some injury problems; Harrison Reed, Max Le Marchand, there's a few out."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/21/head-coach-press conference

Lyon issue fresh Moussa Dembele transfer update amid new Man Utd links

The former Fulham and Celtic forward has been linked with switches to Chelsea and Manchester United, with the latter now suffering injury issues

Lyon have again insisted that forward Moussa Dembele is not for sale amid mounting links with Manchester United .

The former Fulham and Celtic forward, who has also been linked with a January switch to Chelsea , has found himself at the centre of more speculation around a move to Old Trafford after it was confirmed that Marcus Rashford will face an extended spell on the sidelines.

Rashford is set to be out for up to three months after picking up a stress fracture in his back in last week's FA Cup third round win over Wolves , leaving United short of cover in attack.

But Dembele won't be making the move to Manchester this month according to Lyon president Jean Michel Aulas.

"Our players are often targeted," Aulas told reporters.

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article21282943.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_FBL-FRA-LIGUE1-BORDEAUX-LYON.jpg)
Dembele has been linked with United and Chelsea (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

"We want Moussa Dembele and Lucas Tousart [the midfielder who has been linked with Hertha Berlin] to stay.

"The latter has received significant offers. If he leaves, we will have to replace him first.

"But I think they will stay. Now is not the time for us to weaken our team."

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer faced mounting calls to strengthen the squad after the 2-0 defeat at the weekend, including from his former Old Trafford teammate Gary Neville.

But the Norwegian hit back on Tuesday .

"For me now, we've lost to Liverpool , a team you all say are fantastic and we've been in the game until the last kick of the ball," said Solskjaer.

"Of course we're disappointed after losing the game, we don't want be behind them in the league but there were signs there we are on the right track.

"Now is not the time to speak about recruitment. We're looking to playing Burnley now.

"We're always looking to improve the squad and the club but now is not the time for Gary and that discussion."



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/lyon-issue-fresh-moussa-dembele-21326774

Fulham join Bournemouth in the race to sign Huddersfield Town winger Isaac Mbenza

Fulham have joined Bournemouth in the race for Huddersfield Town winger Isaac Mbenza according to L'Equipe.

Mbenza joined the Terriers from Montpellier for £8million two years ago but has failed to make a real impact at the Yorkshire club and has not featured for the club since October.

Huddersfield are in danger of being relegated to League One and could consider a move to promotion chasers Fulham to bring an end to his unsuccessful stay with Danny Cowley's side.

Fulham manager Scott Parker, has already bought in Michael Hector from Chelsea, Ivan Cavaleiro had made his loan-move from Wolverhampton Wanderers permanent and Terrence Kongolo has arrived on-loan from Huddersfield Town.

Mbenza has largely been an outcast for Huddersfield and a move away from the John Smith's Stadium may be the preferred choice for the winger to revitalise his career.

He was a proven goalscorer in France and came to England with the promise of having a similar impact but this has so far failed to materialise.

Fulham do have a lot of competition in forward areas but the addition of Mbenza would be welcome with them looking to sustain their push for promotion as they edge closer to the Championship top two.

Bournemouth could provide stiff competition for Mbenza's services as they look to add reinforcements to their squad following a torrid run of form which has seen them slump to second bottom in the Premier League table.

Eddie Howe has endured a frustrating time in recent weeks with their injury list increasing by the game and will be looking to add fresh faces to his squad to avoid a return to the Championship.



https://the72.co.uk/155269/fulham-join-bournemouth-in-the-race-to-sign-huddersfield-town-winger-isaac-mbenza/

2 Fulham players who could benefit as transfer decision is made

Scott Parker has set about trying to improve his defence this January, as he looks to maintain a playoff push for the Cottagers after an inconsistent run of form in the past month.

The Fulham manager has set his sights upon Burnley centre-back Ben Gibson, however Sky Sports' Keith Downie has reported that the Cottagers have had a loan bid rejected for the defender.

The 27-year-old has featured just twice for Sean Dyche's side this season, and has plenty of previous Championship experience after coming up through the ranks at Middlesbrough.

Here, we take a look at two Fulham players that could benefit following Burnley's transfer decision...

Maxime Le Marchand
The experienced defender hasn't featured as often as he would have liked this season, and following the additions of Michael Hector and Terence Kongolo in the January window already, the 30-year-old would have been fearing for his spot in the squad.

Le Marchand has only featured eight times in the league this season, and with the other options now ahead of him, he would have found it increasingly difficult if Gibson had arrived at Craven Cottage this January.

The defender hasn't featured for the Cottagers since the start of November, and he will already be frustrated with the fact that he is seeing no game-time as it is at Craven Cottage without the arrival of Gibson.

Burnley rejecting the loan bid for Gibson however means that he gets another chance to try and fight for his spot within the squad at Fulham, but he will find it difficult as it is with the competition in front of him.

Alfie Mawson
The centre-back has been a regular in the Cottagers defence during the first half of the season, but he has struggled with consistency and has been tested many times by the opposition attackers.

Mawson would have been welcoming the additions of Hector and Kongolo as the added competition, but he would have felt that Parker adding Gibson to the ranks could have been a step too far,

However, Burnley rejecting the Fulham loan bid for Gibson could benefit Mawson, as it will relieve the pressure on his shoulders and he can concentrate on getting back to his best instead of worrying about his spot in Parker's plans.

The former Swansea City centre-back has the quality to be one of the best in the Championship, and with his eyes being opened as to how unhappy Parker could be about his recent performances, he may see it as a wake-up call and return to his best in the next few weeks.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-fulham-players-who-could-benefit-as-transfer-decision-is-made/

2 transfer deals Fulham could realistically complete by the end of the week

Fulham's automatic promotion hopes have taken a significant boost in recent weeks with just four points now separating them from the top-two.

Last Friday's 1-0 win against Middledbrough, coupled with Leeds and West Brom both suffering defeats, has reinstilled some confidence in and around Craven Cottage.

So it could well prove that this January transfer window proves the difference for the Whites.

Michael Hector, Terrence Kongolo and Jordan Archer have all already arrived but it does not look like Scott Parker is finished wheeling and dealing just yet.

Connor Goldson
Fulham are said to be very keen on the rock-like Rangers' cenre-back, according to Football Insider, and with their parachute payments still behind them, it is a deal that they could tie up soon if needs be.

With Hector and Kongolo having already arrived, Parker is clearly keen to continue strengthening his back-line. Leeds United are also said to be interested in the 27-year-old but you would have to back the Whites to have the greater financial clout to get a deal over the line.

Isaac Mbenza
Another player who is on the radar of the South West Londoners is Huddersfield's Isaac Mbenza, according to L'Equipe.

They have already raided the Terriers once for Kongolo and considering the winger has not played for Danny Cowley's side since October, a move away could well be on the cards.

With Bournemouth also interested it makes the deal slightly more complicated but the prospect of first-team football could prove too tempting to him, making Fulham the more desirable option.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-transfer-deals-fulham-could-realistically-complete-by-the-end-of-the-week/

Charlton Athletic v Fulham
WED 22 Jan 2020  Championship
Venue: The Valley


Charlton Athletic trio Chuks Aneke (groin), Josh Cullen (ankle) and Chris Solly (illness) are back in training.

Lyle Taylor (thigh) is also closing in on a return but fellow striker Macauley Bonne (hamstring) is sidelined.

Fulham will assess winger Anthony Knockaert, who went off with a hamstring injury during Friday's 1-0 win over Middlesbrough.

Top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic (ankle) is out, but Terence Kongolo could make his debut after joining on loan.

Defender Steven Sessegnon (thigh), midfielder Harrison Reed (calf) and forward Aboubakar Kamara (ankle) are doubts for the Whites, who are four points off the automatic promotion places after winning three of their past four league games.

Charlton, meanwhile, have won just one of their past 16 matches in the Championship, dropping from seventh to 19th in the table in the process.

Match facts

    Charlton are winless in 10 league games (D6 L4) against Fulham since beating them at The Valley in a Premier League tie in December 2004.
    Fulham have lost each of their last six away London derby matches, last winning such a game in April 2018 against Millwall in the Championship.
    Charlton have managed just one victory in their last seven league games at the Valley (D3 L3), failing to keep a single clean sheet. The Addicks last conceded in eight successive home league games back in April 2017.
    After losing each of their 10 Premier League London derbies last season, Fulham have only lost one of their four such matches this season (W2 D1), though that defeat did come at Brentford last month.
    Despite Tomer Hemed failing to score in his seven league appearances for Charlton this season, he has netted five times against Fulham in just three previous appearances - more English league goals than versus any other side.
    Since his league debut for Fulham in February 2018, Aleksandar Mitrovic has only missed three such games for Fulham; the Lilywhites have won two of those matches, however (L1), including beating Middlesbrough last time out.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51115555

 Charlton vs Fulham preview: Championship clash live on Sky Sports Football Red Button
Watch live on Sky Sports Football Red Button and the Sky Sports mobile app from 7.40pm; kick-off is at 7.45pm

Charlton face Fulham in the Sky Bet Championship on Wednesday night, live on Sky Sports Football Red Button and mobile app.

Team news
(https://e1.365dm.com/19/08/768x432/skysports-charlton-atlhetic_4760967.jpg?20191002141155)
Lyle Taylor could return for Charlton

Charlton quartet Lyle Taylor, Chris Solly, Josh Cullen and Sam Field could all return to contention. Striker Taylor, who returned to action in December following a long-term knee injury, has missed the last three matches and Solly was absent for Saturday's defeat at Preston due to illness.

Cullen (ankle) also missed out at the weekend and Field (knee), on loan from West Brom, has been sidelined since October. Jake Forster-Caskey jarred his knee in training last week and remains unavailable.

Fulham strikers Aleksandar Mitrovic and Aboubakar Kamara will not be ready in time to feature. Mitrovic damaged ankle ligaments in the recent win at Hull and is expected to be out until next month, while Kamara has played no part since the home defeat to Reading on New Year's Day.

Defender Steven Sessegnon (groin) and midfielder Harrison Reed (calf) will also be assessed, but remain doubtful. Fulham can close the gap on second-placed Leeds to a single point with victory.

Recent form
Charlton have gone four games without a win, and picked up just a point in that time. They led on Saturday against Preston before eventually falling to a 2-1 defeat.

Fulham have won back-to-back games and are starting to close on the stuttering top two of West Brom and Leeds. They are just four points off the latter and five behind the Baggies ahead of their trip to The Valley.

Opta stats
Charlton are winless in 10 league games (D6 L4) against Fulham since beating them at The Valley in a Premier League tie in December 2004.

Fulham have lost each of their last six away London derby matches, last winning such a game in April 2018 against Millwall in the Championship.

Charlton have managed just one victory in their last seven league games at the Valley (D3 L3), failing to keep a single clean sheet. The Addicks last conceded in eight successive home league games back in April 2017.

After losing each of their 10 Premier League London derbies last season, Fulham have only lost one of their four such matches this season (W2 D1), though that defeat did come at Brentford last month.

Despite Tomer Hemed failing to score in his seven league appearances for Charlton this season, he has netted five times against Fulham in just three previous appearances - more English league goals than versus any other side.

Since his league debut for Fulham in February 2018, Aleksandar Mitrovic has only missed three such games for Fulham; the Lilywhites have won two of those matches however (L1), including beating Middlesbrough last time out.

Prutton's prediction
Charlton still have some business to do between now and Deadline Day. They still look short a few players and that showed in their defeat against Preston on Saturday.

Fulham are right back in the thick of things and West Brom and Leeds dropping points will give them real hope of pushing for automatic promotion. This could be the game where they struggle a little without Aleksandar Mitrovic, though. Score draw.

David Prutton predicts: 1-1 (11/2 with Sky Bet)



https://www.skysports.com/football/charlton-vs-fulham/preview/409688

Millwall Away Tickets

Tickets for Fulham's South London clash with Millwall go on sale from Thursday morning.

Fulham take on The Lions at The Den on Wednesday 12th February, kick-off 7:45pm.

Tickets for this match go on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members at 10am on Thursday 23rd January with any remaining tickets going on General Sale at 10am on Monday 27th January.

Supporters are able to purchase a maximum of two tickets per person for this fixture, with more information available on our match centre page.

Fans can secure their seat online, by phone on 0203871 0810 (opt.1) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

For the latest ticketing information straight to your desktop or mobile calendar, download our fixture calendar here.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/21/millwall-away-tickets

Wales international and ex-Fulham man misses penalty on comeback game for Forest Green Rovers

He returned from a long injury lay-off against Bristol Rovers

George Williams missed a first-half penalty in a goalless draw with Bristol Rovers in the Central League, as he completed 45 minutes on his comeback from injury.

Williams has been out of action after a horrific leg break on the opening day of the season against Oldham Athletic.

However, the 24-year-old is nearing his comeback and had an eventful 45 minutes against Bristol Rovers in the Central League.

Williams won a penalty in the opening 10 minutes of the game in Chippenham, after being clipped by the goalkeeper, but saw the resulting spot-kick saved down low by Alexis Andre-Jr.

Rovers had other first-team players featuring in the development match, including Lewis Thomas, Matt Mills, Nathan McGinley, Kevin Dawson, Taylor Allen, Elliott Frear and Matty Stevens.

Allen had an early chance to give Rovers the lead, before the penalty miss, but his header was easily saved by Andre-Jr.

Stevens, who has lost his place in recent weeks to new signing Josh March, looked bright early on, having a couple of efforts at goal.

Bristol Rovers were then awarded a penalty half an hour in after McGinley fouled inside the box.

Thomas kept his nerve, though, and stayed down the middle to collect a dinked effort from Theo Widdrington for the second penalty save of the afternoon.

Williams was replaced for the second-half, with Dan Jones coming onto replace the attacker.

Tom Mahew did well for the visiting side as he blocked Jones' strike and then got himself up quickly to deny Vaughn Covil.

Jones had a chance to put Rovers ahead on 70 minutes following a scramble, that eventually fell to the youngster, but he put his effort over the crossbar.

Jack Carter, who replaced Frear not long before, came close with a great effort that was well-saved by Andre-Jr.

Both sides had plenty of chances but neither could break the deadlock in a game purely focused on match fitness.



https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wales-international-ex-fulham-man-3763882

The Sean Davis Column

We've been enjoying some fine form of late. We had a great win in the cup over Aston Villa which will no doubt have been a massive confidence booster for the whole squad. Another big bonus from that match was seeing Harry Arter back on the pitch again, and for him to score such a great goal was a lovely moment for him. He's going to be an important player for us in this second half of the season. We then followed that up with two good wins, managing to keep clean sheets in each of them. The Hull one was especially pleasing as we hadn't won there in such a long time.


These three wins have coincided with Michael Hector's first matches as a Fulham player, and he's been absolutely terrific. He 100 per cent would have benefitted from having trained with the lads for these last few months. He'll have got to know everyone, he'll be comfortable around the place by now, and you can see he's got a good connection with Tim Ream on the field. It's his shirt to lose now so we've got some good healthy competition for places in defence, especially with the arrival of Terence Kongolo as well.

Victory at Charlton on Wednesday would put us just one point off second place, and that's always a motivation. You do keep one eye on what everyone else is doing, but it's such a competitive division that teams are going to have blips now and again. Leeds and West Brom were quite far ahead of the chasing pack a while ago, so their recent form is a bit of a surprise, but it's a long season. You cannot afford to take your eye off the ball. It's a cliché but you've got to take it game by game. If you start thinking matches are a foregone conclusion, that's when you're in trouble.

(https://ffcw001.azureedge.net/-/media/ex-players/shutterstock_editorial_10366948bn.jpg?w=300&h=400)

I scored a couple of goals against Charlton in my Fulham days. One came after I'd be in a little bit of trouble and had actually been dropped for the previous game. I was back on the bench for Charlton, came on and scored a worldie (probably goal of the season!), which was nice. London derbies are great to play in, those are the ones you miss, so it will be a good contest over at the Valley. Last time I went there was as a fan when we drew 2-2, although I can't remember most of the day because I'd been on the boat with all the Fulham fans and they kept buying me drinks! It was great to be in the stands with them singing the songs and supporting the team, and I hope everyone making the short journey on Wednesday has a brilliant time and comes home with three points.

We're off to Manchester City at the weekend which is a good opportunity to see how we match up to the big guns. I do feel that we raise our game when we're playing against better opposition – we showed that when we played so well against Leeds last month. It will be a good game, I'm sure all the players are looking forward to it. It looks like the title has escaped Man City now, so they'll be going hard in the cup competitions. I want them to put their strongest team out, but whoever starts for them, there's going to be so much quality from front to back. The boys will just have to go there, work their socks off and represent the Club the best they can.

We had Bobby Decordova-Reid on the Monday Night Fulham Fix this week, someone I knew as a kid coming through at Bristol City when I had a loan spell there towards the end of my career. I had a few training sessions and you could tell, even at a young age, that he was technically very good. He's filled out a bit now, he's a lot stronger and quicker, but he always had that technical ability. I felt like an old man in those sessions with this young lad taking the mick out of me! You could always tell that he would go on to be a success. He's such a hard worker that he deserves everything he's got. We hadn't seen each other in years so it was good to catch up. He's a very humble lad who speaks well, and he's been a great addition to the Fulham squad.

I was fortunate enough to receive the Forever Fulham award at the Stoke game last month, which was great. I still go back to the Cottage regularly to watch as a fan, but to go out on the pitch and get such a fantastic reception from the fans was very humbling and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Big thanks to David Daly for putting me up for it. It was a great day all round, topped off by three points.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/21/the-sean-davis-column

Early Fulham injury news emerges ahead of Charlton clash

Fulham manager Scott Parker has delivered an update on the fitness of attacking duo Aleksandar Mitrovic and Aboubakar Kamara ahead of their midweek clash with Charlton Athletic.

Mitrovic was stretchered off the pitch with an ankle injury during their 2-1 win against Hull City two seasons ago whilst Kamara continues with a knock of his own.

And their was little positive news for Parker to impart.

"Neither of them will be ready for the game against Charlton," he told his pre-match press conference on Tuesday afternoon, reported by the club's official website.

"Mitrović is progressing well but still not ready for this game, and the same with Kamara.

"Other than that, we're a little bit light, we've got some injury problems; Harrison Reed, Max Le Marchand, there's a few out."

On Friday night, Fulham saw off Middlesbrough 1-0 at Craven Cottage to move to within four points of the automatic promotion places.

And with Leeds losing 1-0 to QPR on Saturday and West Brom going down by the same scoreline to Stoke City on Monday, Fulham are suddenly right back in the mix.

They have the chance to move to within a point of those highly-sought after positions on Wednesday night too when they travel to The Valley to face Lee Bowyers side.

The verdict

Last Friday's 1-0 win against Middlsebrough will have given the team plenty of confidence that they can continue to perform without Aleksandar Mitrovic in the team.

They have also beaten QPR without the Serbian as well so they know they have what it takes.

But there is no doubt they are a far stronger side with him in it and the longer he is out the more confidence opposition teams will have when facing them.

With a new found solidity at the back, however, Fulham will be confident of dispatching anyone they come up against.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/early-fulham-injury-news-emerges-ahead-of-charlton-clash/

Huddersfield, Fulham and Middlesbrough have loan offers for Burnley's Ben Gibson rejected

According to Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie (tweet – below), Burnley have rejected loan proposals from Championship trio Huddersfield Town, Fulham and Middlesbrough.

Burnley will allow Gibson to leave the club this month as he is seen as surplus to requirements at Turf Moor, but the club is insistent on securing a replacement for the defender before he departs.

Ideally, Sean Dyche's side would prefer a permanent deal, in a bid to recuperate the £15 million paid to Middlesbrough in 2017, but a loan deal back down to the Championship looks more likely with just over a week to go in the transfer window.

The 27-year old is looking to secure a move elsewhere to get more playing time. He has only featured once this season for the Clarets, in the Carabao Cup defeat to Sunderland. Prior to this, he has only played one game in the Premier League in his Burnley career.

Boro's recent defensive injury crisis has meant they have prioritised a defender in this month's window, and with Gibson's uncle being the Middlesbrough Chairman, it would be the most likely destination for the Teesside-born centre-back.

Tommy Elphick has been sidelined with an injury at Huddersfield since November and they too are in the market for a new central defender.

Fulham have already signed Michael Hector on loan from Chelsea, and Scott Parker also has Tim Ream and Alfie Mawson at his disposal. However, they are hoping for new recruits this January in a bid of achieving a place in the automatic promotion spots.



https://the72.co.uk/155240/huddersfield-fulham-and-middlesbrough-have-loan-offers-for-burnleys-ben-gibson-rejected/

2 Fulham outcasts who Scott Parker should look to move on this month

Fulham have had an impressive transfer window so far.

The arrivals of Michael Hector, who finalised his deal from Chelsea, the permanent signing of Ivan Cavaleiro, the free signing of Jordan Archer and the loan-acquisition of Terrence Kongolo has given Fulham fans added optimism going into the second-half of the season.

But there's been no outgoings at Fulham so far this month – the club who spent over £100 million on players in the summer of 2018 and didn't sell any of them in the summer just gone, there must be a point when Fulham's finances become a cause for concern.

Here we look at two Fulham outcasts who Scott Parker should look to move on this month:

Marcus Bettinelli

With the arrival of Archer on a free from Oxford United last week, Bettinelli's departure is all but imminent. The 27-year-old has been a good servant to Fulham but has spent much of this season on the bench with the younger Marek Rodak coming into the first-team.

The Slovakian has been impressive in his first season in goal at the Cottage, and it's made Bettinelli an outcast at the club – no team has yet to make an enquiry about the stopper, and Fulham nor Parker are yet to give an update on his future.

Bettinelli is now in his 6th season at Fulham. He was a key component of their promotion-winning campaign under Slavisa Jokanovic in 2018 but made just a handful of appearances in the top-flight – he's become surplus to requirements at the club, and expect to see him depart before the end of the month.

Neeskens Kebano

The Congolese winger is a likeable player. He joined Fulham from Genk in 2016 and had an impressive first season in England, playing 30 times for Fulham in the Championship and netting six times.

He had a similar impact in his second season as Fulham won promotion but like so many others in the squad, he missed out on much of their top-flight campaign with all the summer signings made by the club – Kebano played just seven games in the Premier League last season.

This season has been a similar story – the arrivals of Anthony Knockaert, Bobby Reid and Ivan Cavaleiro in the summer set Kebano up for a difficult season trying to break back into the first-team, whilst the likes of Aboubakar Kamara have surpassed him in the pecking order as well.

He's a useful player to have around the club, but with Cavaleiro signing permanently and more signings expected before the end of the month, Kebano could well be in his way out of the Cottage.




https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-fulham-outcasts-who-scott-parker-should-look-to-move-on-this-month/

Parker delivers promotion race verdict as Fulham close in on Leeds and West Brom

Fulham manager Scott Parker has given his latest analysis of the Championship promotion race after the gap between his side and the top two narrowed again over the weekend.

West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United looked set to secure the automatic promotion places comfortably, pulling 12 points clear earlier in the campaign, but following recent events the gap has shrunk to just four points.

But whilst Parker is pleased with how things have gone so far, he knows that they cannot get carried away.

"We're in a good position at this moment in time," he told his pre-match press conference on Tuesday night, reported by the club's official website.

"We're looking at the right end of the table, but ultimately we can only control what we control.

"If Leeds or West Brom are slipping up or are out of form then you need to react to that and you need to get results. I realise the dynamics of this division, and as soon as you take your eye off it then this league has got a habit of biting you."

On Friday night, Fulham saw off Middlesbrough 1-0 at Craven Cottage to move to within four points of the pace-setters.

And with Leeds losing 1-0 to QPR on Saturday and the Baggies going down by the same scoreline to Stoke City on Monday, Fulham are suddenly right back in the mix.

They have the chance to move to within a point of those highly-sought after positions on Wednesday night too when they travel to The Valley to face Charlton Athletic.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/parker-delivers-promotion-race-verdict-as-fulham-close-in-on-leeds-and-west-brom/

Fulham team news: Four men out of Charlton clash, including key figure

Fulham are due to play against Charlton Athletic in a Championship encounter at The Valley on Wednesday.

Scott Parker's Cottagers side will be aiming for an away win in order to maintain a push for an automatic promotion place this season.

Fulham enter the game in third position on the standings and are four points adrift of second-place Leeds United.

The Craven Cottage outfit are currently on a run of two consecutive league wins and have a perfect opportunity to make that three against the 19th place Addicks, who are just five points clear of the relegation zone.

Fulham's key striker Aleksandar Mitrovic is expected to be out of action for up to three weeks after having suffered ligament damage during his side's 1-0 win against Hull City last weekend, according to the club's official website.

Other players who are expected to miss out include Aboubakar Kamara, Harrison Reed and Max Le Marchand,

Overall, Fulham have enough strength in depth to win the game and secure a valuable three points.

They can however not afford to get the basics wrong during the game. Charlton have already previously frustrated Parker's side after drawing 2-2 with them in a league clash back in October.

It also remains to be seen if other attackers from the Fulham team can come to the party in lieu of the absence of Mitrovic.



https://ninetyminutesonline.com/fulham-team-news-four-men-out-of-charlton-clash-including-key-figure/

MATCH PREVIEW | Charlton v Fulham

Charlton host Fulham on Wednesday night with the Addicks looking to use the home advantage as a catalyst to pick up some much-needed points.

The weekend's defeat to Preston North End leaves Charlton with just one win in 16 games while Fulham have lost just once in their last five games. The Addicks will be hoping that they can put form aside going into the fixture and get back to winning ways.

TEAM NEWS
The return of Jonny Williams, Erhun Oztumer and Tomer Hemed may also be boosted by Josh Cullen and Jake Forster-Caskey coming back into the fold. Cullen and Forster-Caskey were set to feature on the bench for Charlton at Deepdale but small knocks meant that Lee Bowyer was unwilling to risk playing them to aggravate further injury.

Bowyer is also hoping to have Lyle Taylor and Sam Field involved after the duo returned to training this week. Chuks Aneke is also nearing fitness having bagged himself a first-half hat-trick for the U23s on Saturday while Lewis Page is also nearing a return.

Still sidelined for the Addicks are Macauley Bonne are George Lapslie.

For the visitors, talisman Aleksandar Mitrovic is set to miss the fixture. The striker has scored 26 goals for the Cottagers this season and so will be a big miss for Scott Parker's squad. Fulham have further doubts in the form of Aboubakar Kamara, Maxime Le Marchand and Harrison Reed.

PRE-MATCH TALK
Charlton midfielder Darren Pratley: "It will be a tough game. They have had an extra day's rest because they faced Middlesbrough on Friday. They are a very good side. A very, very good side.

"We got a point down at their place and we're going to have to be at it, but I think our home crowd will help us to try and get something out of it."

Fulham boss Scott Parker: "They're going to give everything and we'll have a battle on our hands come Wednesday night. We're going to have to earn the right at times and try and stamp our authority on it."

HEAD-TO-HEAD
Charlton and Fulham have squared off 71 times with Charlton winning 22 times, drawing 24 times and losing on 25 occasions. Last time out saw the Addicks pick up a hard-earned point in a 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage in October.

The last time Charlton beat Fulham at home in the league was back in December 2004. Goals from Jerome Thomas and Talal El Karkouri meant that Tomasz Radzinski's 82nd minute goal was too little, too late as the Addicks kept all three points at The Valley in the Premier League.

MATCH OFFICIALS
Stephen Martin will once again be reffing a Charlton fixture, Wednesday's game the third of the campaign with Martin having already overseen the Addicks' 3-0 win over Derby and the 1-0 defeat to Middlesbrough.

The referee has dished out 48 yellow cards and two reds in his 21 games so far this season.

He will be joined by assistants Andrew Fox and Adam Crysell while David Rock will be the Fourth Official.



https://www.cafc.co.uk/news/view/5e27239ddf0ef/match-preview-charlton-v-fulham

2 pros and 2 cons of Fulham reinforcing their squad with potential 27-y/o incoming

As we head into the latter stages of the current January transfer window, Football League clubs up and down the country will be seeking to reinforce their respective squads, with Fulham being no different.

Whites boss Scott Parker will be looking to strengthen his side's promotion hopes this month as they look to close the gap on Championship pace setters West Brom and Leeds United.

One particular area that could do with being supplemented is in defence, with the Cottagers lacking any real depth at centre halve, perhaps opening up the possibility of the club bringing in another defender this window.

As reported by Keith Downie of Sky Sports, one man that could well be in line for a move to Craven Cottage is Burnley centre back Ben Gibson, with the 27-year-old having found his game-time limited this term.

Fulham are said to have had a loan bid rejected for the player, however, the player could well leave if a replacement is found by the Turf Moor club.

Here, we take a look at TWO pros and TWO cons of Fulham clinching a deal for Ben Gibson in the coming weeks...

Pros

Championship experience
The former Middlesbrough man has great experience of playing at Championship level, with the 27-year-old having turned out for his boyhood club on over 200 occasions prior to making the move to Burnley back in 2018.

His experience of the second division is sure to be one of the key factors behind Parker's interest in securing the player's services.

Good on the ball
Gibson is more than comfortable with the ball at his feet, so in theory, he wouldn't find it too tough an ask to fit into Fulham's passing style of play if he did indeed make the move to west London this month.

He is also left-sided, meaning that he would be the ideal candidate to slot into central defence alongside another in the Fulham backline.

Cons

Lacking match fitness
Gibson has found game-time at Burnley pretty hard to come by this term, perhaps suggesting that his match fitness wouldn't be up to scratch straight away.

Parker is seeking players that can come in and make an impact for his side straight away and as a result this factor could well put a move for the 27-year-old on the back burner.

Wouldn't start
With Messrs Mawson and Tim Ream having performed well for the Whites this season and Michael Hector now looking impressive, it seems highly unlikely that the figure of Gibson could dislodge one of them if he makes the move to Craven Cottage.

Gibson is sure to want regular game time, so as a result Parker may have to shelve plans to sign the player in favour of another new recruit that could be more open to being rotated.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-pros-and-2-cons-of-fulham-reinforcing-their-squad-with-potential-27-y-o-incoming/

Charlton's predicted XI to face Fulham

Charlton Athletic will be looking to bounce back from their 2-1 loss against Preston North End when they step onto the pitch on Wednesday.

However, doing so won't be the easiest of tasks, as they will face Fulham, who have gone into this round of fixtures in third place.

If the Addicks are unable to get the three points, it will mark five consecutive matches without a win, while a bit of extra distance from the relegation zone would likely be appreciated.

FFC has predicted the starting XI that Bowyer could utilise in order to make that happen, including three changes from the loss at Deepdale.


The defence's main core is kept intact, with Dillon Phillips, Tom Lockyer, Adedeji Oshilaja and Naby Sarr all starting against Fulham, as they did during the loss to Preston.

Alfie Doughty could start this match on the bench, with Ben Purrington coming into the team. Bringing in the 23-year-old could provide the side with extra defensive solidity. He averages 1.5 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 1.9 clearances per game, which outdoes the 20-year-old's 0.6 tackles and 0.5 clearances while equalling his interceptions. Adam Matthews, meanwhile, could play on the opposite flank.

Ben Dempsey seems to have forced his way into Bowyer's plans in recent times, after starting each of Charlton's last three league games, and could be set to continue that run against Fulham.

In this XI, Darren Pratley remains in the team, while Albie Morgan replaces Jonny Williams to join them in the midfield three, which would see the academy graduate return to the starting lineup having not featured in it for the last two games.

Andre Green stays in the side after scoring against Preston, a moment that could prove to be monumental for him – especially given the timing.

Tomer Hemed has come on as a substitute in each of Charlton's last three games, so Bowyer may be tempted to start the Israel international, with Josh Davison being used from the bench.



https://www.footballfancast.com/championship/charlton/addicks-predicted-xi-fulham-bowyer

The XI Bowyer will likely field for Charlton v Fulham tonight

Tonight, Charlton Athletic host Fulham at The Valley as the Addicks look to move on up the Championship table and away from the danger of the relegation zone.

Charlton haven't had the smoothest of rides in terms of team selection over the last couple of months, with plenty of key players having to sit out on the sidelines due to injuries.

Manager Lee Bowyer will have to decide which players he deems good enough to get the job done against Fulham and compete against their London rivals in what will be a hotly-contested encounter.

Here, we take a look at the likely XI that Bowyer will field for Charlton vs Fuham tonight...


The Addicks will be expected to start the same team that lost away at Preston North End on Saturday.

Dillon Phillips will keep his spot in goal as the Addicks' main No.1.

Sticking with their 3-5-2 formation, youngster Alfie Doughty will be handed the chance to continue impressing at left wing-back.

In the heart of defence, Naby Sarr, Deji Oshilaja and Tom Lockyer will be the three centre-backs that are instructed to deal with Fulham's main threats, despite Chris Solly having returned to training following illness.

At right wing-back, Adam Matthews will keep his spot in the side.

Bowyer will stick with the same midfield three despite Josh Cullen nearing his full return from injury, with Jonny Williams, Darren Pratley and youngster Ben Dempsey providing the balance in the midfield of defence, creativity and a goal threat.

Charlton's two main strikers Lyle Taylor and Macauley Bonne are still sidelined through injury, therefore January signing Andre Green and young talent Josh Davison will be the chosen two to try and lead the line. Chuks Aneke could be an outside bet to start up front, however, it is unlikely that he is match fit after just returning to training.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/the-xi-bowyer-will-likely-field-for-charlton-v-fulham-tonight/

Watch Live On FFCtv

Fulham supporters based both in the United Kingdom & Republic of Ireland and overseas can watch live coverage of Fulham's away trip to The Valley against Charlton Athletic on FFCtv this evening, kick-off 7:45pm (GMT).

Match Passes are available to purchase now, priced at £5 for overseas fans and £10 for fans in the UK & ROI.

With enhanced four-camera coverage and commentary from Gentleman Jim on FFCtv, the live broadcast begins from 7:15pm and is available to watch online at https://tv.fulhamfc.com/ or via the FFCtv App.

For fans wishing to watch or listen to this fixture, please be sure to follow the below steps:

Using a desktop computer:

• Log-in to your FFCtv account by visiting https://tv.fulhamfc.com/ and clicking LOGIN, located in the top right hand corner.

• If you have yet to purchase a Match Pass or subscription, choose your package and follow the steps to buy.

• Once purchased, to then view the game on desktop simply click on the FFCTV LIVE tab on https://tv.fulhamfc.com/ which will bring up the live video feed (from 7:15pm) for the Charlton Athletic fixture.

• To listen to audio commentary only, click on the adjacent AUDIO COMMENTARY tab.

Fans are reminded that if viewing the website tv.fulhamfc.com on a mobile or tablet browser (i.e. Safari on an iPhone or Chrome on an Android device) the live stream will not show. To watch on mobile or tablet, you must watch via the FFCtv App.

For mobile and tablet:

• Purchase a package by visiting https://tv.fulhamfc.com/ on a mobile or desktop browser.

• Open the official FFCtv App and log-in via the ACCOUNT tab located in the bottom right of the screen.

       o Fans yet to download the FFCtv App can do so via the Apple App & Google Play stores.

• Log in to your account.

• Once logged in, you should see LISTEN LIVE and WATCH LIVE buttons accessible via the TV, LIVE and MATCHES icons at the bottom of the screen.

Fans are reminded that the previous Fulham FC app will not show live video coverage or provide live audio commentary. To access live content please download the new FFCtv App.

For any specific questions relating to playback on your desktop or mobile/tablet device please contact [email protected].

Anyone who experiences difficulties subscribing to FFCtv should email [email protected]. Fans are advised to test their login prior to kick-off.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/22/ffctv-charlton-v-fulham-watch-live

Fulham: Aleksandar Mitrovic hands Cottagers huge injury blow ahead of Charlton clash

Fulham have been handed a huge blow ahead of their Championship clash with fellow Londoners Charlton Athletic. The division's joint top-goalscorer Aleksandar Mitrovic has been ruled out of the game with an ankle problem. 

The Cottagers have the opportunity to close the gap on Leeds United in second place to just a solitary point but they'll have to do it without their talismanic forward. The Serbian international is not expected to return until early February (as per Transfermarkt.co.uk).

Worryingly, Fulham have lost each of their last six away London derbies with their last win coming away at Milwall back in April 2018 (as per BBC Sport) – a record Scott Parker will be well aware of and one he will be keen to put right.

TIF Tactics – Can Fulham cope without Mitrovic?

Aleksandar Mitrovic joined Fulham from Newcastle United for £22m after a successful loan spell at Craven Cottage and given the impact he's had, you would have to say it's been money well spent. The striker has scored 41 goals for the club in just 85 appearances and it's easy to forget that he's just 25-years-old.

With plenty of good years still ahead of him, the investment in the former Anderlecht forwards' services was certainly a worthwhile one. An experienced international who has scored 34 goals in 54 appearances for Serbia, in Mitrovic, Parker has a top-quality player on his hands.

After Mitrovic, the club's next highest goalscorer this season is Tom Cairney who's scored six times; that's a third of the strikers return and that alone highlights the player's importance to Fulham's promotion hopes.

It remains to be seen as to whether the Cottagers can cope without him for the next few weeks.



https://thisisfutbol.com/2020/01/twitter/fulham-aleksandar-mitrovic-hands-cottagers-huge-injury-blow-ahead-of-charlton-clash/

2 weaknesses Charlton can exploit v Fulham tonight

Tonight, Charlton Athletic take on London rivals Fulham at The Valley, with both clubs looking to push on as they aim to reach their respective targets for the season.

Addicks manager Lee Bowyer will have been busy on the training ground as he attempts to halt his side's slide down the table, and he will be looking towards certain players such as January signing Andre Green to try and turn things around.

The former Charlton player will have devised a game plan that is good enough for the Addicks to try and get past Fulham, and here is two weaknesses that the Addicks can exploit against Scott Parker's Fulham tonight...

Pace in behind
Fulham's defence isn't known to be the quickest when caught in a footrace with opposition attackers, and the likes of Tim Ream and Michael Hector could be in for a long night if Andre Green and Josh Davison end up targeting them.

Charlton have the players in their midfield such as Jonny Williams who can pick a pass forward and send long, diagonal balls over the top for Addicks loanee Green to chase and give Fulham a tough time while he's at it.

If the hosts are able to weight their clearances and passes over the top, then the quicker players from an attacking sense in Charlton's team will be able to beat their London opponents to the ball and drive towards goal, with the visitors left in their wake.

The likes of Alfie Doughty and Adam Matthews may also be given the chance to stretch their legs from full-back, as they can get forward and test Dennis Odoi, Cyrus Christie and Joe Bryan, Christie not known for his pace especially.

The midfield battle
Fulham and Charlton's midfields will be well matched tonight, with both managers preferring to use a three-man midfield as they look to gain the upper hand on their opponents.

However, the Addicks' midfield may be better suited to the conditions and more in the mood for a midfield battle, with Jonny Williams, Darren Pratley and Ben Dempsey all able to win the second ball and start attacks.

Fulham's midfield three, which consisted of Kevin MacDonald, Tom Cairney and Josh Onomah against Middlesbrough, can be viewed as more attacking rather than defensive and gives Charlton an advantage to reach any second ball.

With the quick reactions of the Addicks midfield and the pace that Charlton possess when running in behind, a combination of the two could be dangerous for Fulham's midfield and defence when away from home.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-weaknesses-charlton-can-exploit-v-fulham-tonight/

VALLEY REVIEW | Alfie Doughty stars on Wednesday night

Academy graduate Alfie Doughty is the main attraction in Wednesday evening's official matchday programme for the visit of Fulham.

The 20-year-old has impressed in recent weeks having been recalled from his non-League loan spell with Bromley and in his feature interview, he discusses his breakthrough in the Championship, playing alongside his fellow youngsters, taking on board advice from his manager and his pride at netting his first Charlton goal.

Elsewhere, Lee Bowyer pens his latest programme notes, while Darren Pratley reflects on the weekend's defeat at Preston North End, as well as his boundless energy that has kept him in the side of late.

Valley Classics takes a look back at three memorable SE7 clashes against Fulham from over the years, plus a special look at a cracking encounter against West Ham United on this day in 2003 that saw Bowyer and current Fulham boss Scott Parker go head-to-head in a firey encounter.

Meanwhile, Addicks legend John Robinson makes his second appearance in 'Talk Us Through It', this time explaining his stunner against Huddersfield Town back in 1999 and all the latest academy action is rounded up.

All that and much, much more can be found in Saturday's Valley Review which is priced £3 and can be purchased from in and around The Valley as well as in the Valley Superstore.



https://www.cafc.co.uk/news/view/5e285f83ee616/valley-review-alfie-doughty-stars-on-wednesday-night

2 weaknesses Fulham can exploit v Charlton tonight

Fulham have the chance to narrow the gap on the automatic promotion places tonight when they make the short trip to face Charlton Athletic at The Valley.

They sit just four points behind Leeds United and West Brom and will go into their clash with the Addicks full of confidence following their recent win against Middlesbrough.

Woodgate's side were put to the sword despite Scott Parker not having the services of Aleksandar Mitrovic, and he will have to do without him again tonight.

Here we look at TWO Charlton weaknesses Fulham can exploit tonight...

The midfield
With Connor Gallagher having left The Valley last week, Charlton will still be adapting to life without the impressive Chelsea younger.

It therefore offers the Whites a real chance to test the unit Bowyer will field. Over the weekend, Jonny Williams returned for the trip to Preston but with the likes of youngster Ben Dempsey and Albie Morgan taking to the field, Parker should be confident that his side can exploit the area.

Lack of mobility
This particularly applies to the trio of centre-backs who, although no slouches, will most likely struggle to deal with the rotating front line of Fulham.

With Mitrovic unavailable, Bobby Decordova-Reid stepped in and alongside Anthony Knockaert and Ivan Cavaleiro they have all the tools to terrorise Tom Lockyer and co.

Charlton's backline have been impressive at times this season, and could well win the battle, but with the trio's mobility coupled with Tom Cairney's creativity, I think they could struggle.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-weaknesses-fulham-can-exploit-v-charlton-tonight/

Scott Parker calls for Fulham to remain focused ahead of trip to Charlton Athletic

Speaking to the club's official website, Fulham manager Scott Parker has called for his side to remain focused on the task at hand as his side prepare to face Charlton Athletic, where a win would see them move only two points behind league leaders West Brom.

Fulham's chances of earning a place in the top two of the Championship table have increased massively in recent weeks. The faltering form of West Brom and Leeds United has opened the door for them to close the gap. The Cottagers head into tonight's game only five points away from the top of the table and four points away from 2nd placed Leeds.

A win against Charlton Athletic tonight would see Fulham move only one point behind Leeds and just two away from West Brom at the top of the table. And, with his side coming closer to the top two, Scott Parker has called for his players to focus on what they can control rather than the faltering form of Leeds and West Brom.

Speaking ahead of the game, Parker said his Fulham outfit need to concentrate on the task at hand as they travel to The Valley to face Charlton Athletic. He said:

"We're in a good position at this moment in time and we go there on Wednesday night with a positive result,. We're looking at the right end of the table, but ultimately we can only control what we control. If Leeds or West Brom are slipping up or are out of form then you need to react to that and you need to get results.

"First and foremost we need to concentrate on us, and let's see where it gets us. I realise the dynamics of this division, and as soon as you take your eye off it then this league has got a habit of biting you.

"We understand the difficulties [Wednesday] is going to bring. A London derby, a team at the other end of the table, but Lee Bowyer – who I know very well – will have them fighting. They're going to give everything and we'll have a battle on our hands come Wednesday night. We're going to have to earn the right at times and try and stamp our authority on it."



https://the72.co.uk/155370/scott-parker-calls-for-fulham-to-remain-focused-ahead-of-trip-to-charlton-athletic/

Scott Parker sends West Brom and Leeds United promotion warning

West Brom and Leeds have permitted

If West Brom and Leeds United continue to drop points at the top of the Championship, then Fulham will be ready to take advantage, Scott Parker has indicated.

Of the last 15 league matches that either side have played in, Albion and Leeds have mustered up just two victories - both away at Birmingham City - between them, meaning their healthy lead at the top of the table has been nibbled away week on week.

With the Cottagers and Nottingham Forest, who are also attempting to chase down the longstanding top two, in action against sides in the bottom half of the table on Wednesday evening, the top of the table could look particularly congested if they both secure victories ahead of an empty weekend where the FA Cup takes centre stage.

Fulham, without talisman Aleksandar Mitrovic because of injury, have won their last two and head to Charlton Athletic this evening, while Forest - who have won four of their last five - welcome Reading to the City Ground.

The gap will be non existent if Parker's men can see off the Addicks, though despite the automatic promotion race heating up again recently he's asking his players to concentrate on their own business.

The rest will take of itself, if the Baggies and the Whites continue to surrender points.

"We're in a good position at this moment in time and we go there on Wednesday night looking for a positive result," Parker said at his pre match press conference.

"We're looking at the right end of the table, but ultimately we can only control what we control. If Leeds or West Brom are slipping up or are out of form then you need to react to that and you need to get results.

"First and foremost we need to concentrate on us, and let's see where it gets us. I realise the dynamics of this division, and as soon as you take your eye off it then this league has got a habit of biting you.

"We understand the difficulties [Wednesday] is going to bring. A London derby, a team at the other end of the table, but Lee Bowyer – who I know very well – will have them fighting."



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/scott-parker-sends-west-brom-17615105

The XI that Scott Parker could field for Fulham v Charlton tonight

Fulham head to The Valley tonight to face Charlton Athletic in the Championship.

A tale of two London clubs, and two Londoners at the helm – Lee Bowyer and Scott Parker know each other very well from their playing days, but expect a much more subdued handshake between the two than this fracas from yesteryear:

Fulham go into this game in good form having won their last three in the Championship, and a win tonight would take them to within one point of the automatic promotion places.

Charlton meanwhile will go in search of their first win of 2020 – the Addicks sit in 19th-place of the Championship table, five points above the drop zone and having won just one of their last 17 in the league.

Here we take a look at how Parker's side are expected to line-up tonight:


Fulham shouldn't name a side too dissimilar from the one that beat Middlesbrough last time out – expect an unchanged back-five of Marek Rodak in goal, Dennis Odoi on the right and Joe Bryan on the left, with Tim Ream and Michael Hector in the middle.

Hector has answered a lot of Fulham's prayers with his commanding performances in the heart of defence, and Parker could even give a debut to Terrence Kongolo tonight alongside Hector.

The only change to expect tonight would be Harry Arter in for Kevin McDonald – McDonald has slowly worked his way back from injury and his return seems to have given the whole team and fan base a boost.

But having started the last three, Parker may well choose to rest him as to not risk injury, and give Arter a start, who's also recently returned from injury. Alongside Arter, expect to see Tom Cairney on the right and Josh Onomah on the left.

The front-three is likely to be unchanged as well, with top-scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic ruled out until at least next month – Anthony Knockaert has looked better in recent weeks, so expect to see him on the right and last week's goal-scorer Ivan Cavaleiro on the left, with Bobby Reid in the middle.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/the-xi-that-scott-parker-could-field-for-fulham-v-charlton-tonight/