Results| Sunday |
Southampton | 2-3 | Man Utd |
Chelsea | 0-0 | Spurs |
Arsenal | 1-2 | Wolves |
The Essentials: A Guide To City's Next Home Game
LCFC.com provides the Blue Army with a comprehensive lowdown ahead of Leicester City's behind-closed-doors Premier League encounter with Fulham at King Power Stadium on Monday (5:30pm kick-off).
While the Foxes are targeting a return to winning ways in the Premier League, their 3-3 draw at SC Braga on Thursday will have no doubt inspired them ahead of Monday's clash with the Cottagers.
Goals from Harvey Barnes, Luke Thomas and Jamie Vardy sealed City's qualification from UEFA Europa League Group G with two games to spare, with City's No.9 firing home an equaliser four minutes and 37 seconds into injury time.
Next up, the Foxes welcome Fulham to Filbert Way for the early evening kick-off on Monday...
How can I watch the game?
The Fulham game will be available to view on Sky Sports Main Event (generated stadium noise) and Sky Sports Premier League (ambient noise) in the UK, with the broadcast starting at 5pm on Monday.
It will also be shown across the globe, as detailed below.
Country Channel Time
Algeria beIN Sports 6:30pm
Australia Optus Sport 4:30am (Tuesday)
Austria Sky Sports 6:30pm
Brazil ESPN Brasil 2:30pm
Canada DAZN 12:30pm
China Tencent Sports 1:30am (Tuesday)
Denmark Xee 6:30pm
Germany Sky Sports 6:30pm
Italy Sky Sports 6:30pm
Japan DAZN 2:30am (Tuesday)
Mexico Sky Sports 11:30am
Nigeria Super Sport 6:30pm
Portugal Sport TV 5:30pm
Russia OKKO Sport 8:30pm
Spain DAZN 6:30pm
Thailand True Visions 12:30am (Tuesday)
United Kingdom Sky Sports 5:30pm
United States Multiple Broadcasters 12:30pm
If you can't see your country of residence listed above, please click HERE to view the Premier League's comprehensive broadcast schedules.
Who's starring on LCFC TV?
A trio of former Leicester City stars will be on the LCFC TV and LCFC Radio airwaves on Monday afternoon from 4pm, providing build-up, in-game commentary and post-match reaction.
Ahead of the match, and then at half-time and full-time, Gerry Taggart and Tony Cottee will join presenter Dan Bates on air, while Matt Elliott will be on summariser duty alongside commentator Chris Parrott for LCFC Radio.
All pre and post-match programme - continuing for 30 minutes at full-time - will be available on @LCFC on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, while in-play commentary can be accessed on LCFC.com.
What about Fantasy Premier League?
Fantasy Premier League fans had until 6:30pm on Friday evening to make changes to their squad for gameweek 10 prior to Crystal Palace's home encounter with Newcastle United.
On the points scoring front for Leicester City, Kasper Schmeichel has 38, the Foxes' leading defender is Timothy Castagne with 35.
Meanwhile, their leading midfielders are Youri Tielemans and Harvey Barnes, both on 36 points, while striker Jamie Vardy has 61 to his name.
What's the officiating team on Monday?
The man in the middle on Monday will be referee Simon Hooper, who will be assisted by Derek Eaton and Harry Lennard.
Andy Madley will be the fourth official, while Darren England will be on VAR duties, with the help of assistant VAR, Stephen Child.
When does everything happen?
Four days after their UEFA Europa League clash with SC Braga, City turn their attentions to the 5:30pm kick-off versus Fulham on Monday, but there's plenty going on in the build-up to the match.
Event Time
Matchday Live begins on LCFC TV 4pm
Team News is confirmed on @LCFC social 4:30pm
The UK's Sky Sports coverage begins 5pm
LCFC Radio commentary begins 5:20pm
Kick-off 5:30pm
Full-time 7:15pm approx
Short highlights on LCFC TV 9:15pm approx
Full highlights on LCFC TV 12am (Tuesday)
Who's in contention to play?
Ahead of City's clash with Fulham, manager Brendan Rodgers said: "It will be the same squad. Some of the other boys are training. We've got the likes of Ricardo [Pereira], Wilf [Ndidi] and Çağlar [Söyüncü]... we're hopeful of getting them some game time in Luhansk when we go there for our next European venture (next Thursday night). That's great news for us, coming into a busy period, but otherwise we're pretty much the same squad."
Scott Parker told the media prior to the game: "Kenny [Tete] came in, played the first couple of games and got an injury. It was disappointing and when you miss a quality player you want him back as quick as possible. But you have to be careful, be sensible with that decision and not rush. As soon as he's ready and in a fit enough state to come and add his quality and help us, that decision will be made. He's just slowly coming back into training with us now, albeit modified training. He's been working hard with the rehab department, he's on the right track now and I can't see it being too long."
What happened last time?
Leicester City's 3-1 win over Fulham at King Power Stadium on Saturday 9 March, 2019, proved to be a particularly memorable day for talismanic striker Jamie Vardy.
He unselfishly set up Youri Tielemans for his first goal for the Football Club before scoring a brace of his own to take him to 100 goals for the Foxes in all competitions.
Manager Brendan Rodgers, after a victory during his maiden home game in charge of City, said of his electric frontman: "He's an incredible player and I'm very lucky he's here. I'm very happy he's here, but it's not just his striking. I think that defensively, I always like my central striker to be able to press and be tactically good.
"From this early period working with him, he's tactically exceptional, I have to say. He understands what it is we're trying to do. On top of that, he's a real, real major threat in the game."
When can I catch match highlights?
Approximately two hours after full-time, you can access a two-minute highlights package on LCFC TV - available for free to Digital Members on the Club's official website (free sign-up).
Short clips will also be available on Leicester City's official social media channels, while a full highlights video will be published on LCFC.com at midnight following the fixture.
Please note that in the interests of safety, Leicester City's fixtures will continue to be played behind closed doors. To ensure matches can still go ahead and to help control the spread of COVID-19, the Football Club kindly asks its supporters to continue to follow their team from home and not to gather at any stadia.
All times GMT unless stated otherwise.
https://www.lcfc.com/news/1916554/the-essentials-a-guide-to-citys-next-home-game
Cavaleiro axed, Mitrovic starts: Predicted Fulham XI to face LeicesterFulham return to Premier League action on Monday night, as they travel to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester City.
Scott Parker's side may be buoyed by a promising second-half display against Everton last weekend, which saw them come close to earning a point against the Toffees but they still ultimately lost 3-2.
They face a Foxes side that have started the season in impressive form, having won six of their opening nine fixtures, which sees them firmly in contention for a Champions League spot at this moment in time.
However, Brendan Rodgers' side have conceded six goals in their last two fixtures, losing 3-0 to Liverpool and drawing 3-3 against Braga in the Europa League, so they certainly look vulnerable defensively ahead of the game against Fulham.
Here's how Football FanCast expects Parker to line his side up against Leicester City, making three changes from the team that started against Everton last weekend...
(https://cdn.footballfancast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/lineup-16-1.png)
Parker should keep faith in his defence, to try and build some familiarity between what are a lot of new names in the Cottagers' backline, whilst Alphonse Areola keeps his place in goal after some impressive recent displays.
Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa should return in midfield in place of Mario Lemina, who endured a really difficult game in the recent fixture against the Toffees, whilst the Cameroonian has been one of Fulham's best performers this season.
There's another change in midfield, as Harrison Reed is replaced by Ruben Loftus-Cheek, with the Chelsea loanee making a real difference last weekend when he was introduced, winning a penalty and scoring Fulham's second goal.
Ademola Lookman and Bobby De Cordova-Reid both keep their starting spots after decent performances against Everton, although Ivan Cavaleiro, who earns £60k per week at the West London club, misses out after he became the latest Fulham player to take a horrendous penalty.
In his place, Aleksandar Mitrovic returns up front, with the Serbian's aerial ability likely to be a threat against a depleted Leicester defence, provided the Cottagers can get some quality balls into the box.
After West Brom won against Sheffield United on Saturday night, Parker's side have slipped back into the relegation places, so they will be looking to pick up a positive result on Monday to boost their aspirations of retaining their place in the top-flight this season.
https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-fc-news/fulham-leicester-city-scott-parker-cottagers-mitrovic-cavaleiro
Scott Parker believes right balance will be key for Fulham in bid to stay up
Scott Parker admits "nice" football will not be enough to keep Fulham up this season.
The Cottagers have impressed in spells so far this term but still find themselves in the bottom three ahead of Monday's trip to Leicester.
"It's frustrating, because I see a very good team here at times," said boss Parker.
"There's a lot of improvement to make and we need to keep developing, but in moments against quality opposition we have a real way about us.
"We need to translate that into points – you don't want to be a team that plays nice football but loses matches and we need to get that balance right.
"I feel it's close, but it's been the fine margins sometimes. You can't afford to lose a minute of concentration in this division and at times we've fallen short in terms of understanding that.
"Anyone who watches us play and understands football will see where some of our deficiencies are, but will also see how good we are at times.
"We're a young team with a lot of new players getting to grips with my voice and my message, but as a team we are going in the right direction."
Ruben Loftus-Cheek impressed as a substitute during last Saturday's narrow defeat at Everton, and Parker is confident he can accommodate the Chelsea loanee in his starting line-up.
"I see him as a player between the lines really," added Parker. "I see him as an attacking-minded player. We saw a fine example last weekend.
"He needs that run of games, that belief, that real clarity in what's going to define him as a player and a real understanding of what he is.
"There's flexibility in the way we play. He can play off the side, he can play as a number 10, it's not just one position in my team that's up for grabs. We can be flexible in how we play him."
https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/scott-parker-believes-balance-key-122728589.html
Leicester v Fulham: Rodgers can match Guardiola's record
Team news
Leicester City defender Timothy Castagne (hamstring) remains a doubt, while Caglar Soyuncu, Wilfred Ndidi and Ricardo Pereira are still out, although the latter is building up his match fitness with the Under-23s.
Kenny Tete (calf) remains out for Fulham, although the full-back has returned to light training.
Did you know?
Brendan Rodgers has won all seven of his Premier League matches against Fulham. Only Pep Guardiola has a better 100 per cent record against an opponent in the competition, with eight wins out of eight against both AFC Bournemouth and Watford.
Jamie Vardy was involved in all three of Leicester's goals the last time these sides met in the Premier League, scoring two and assisting one in the Foxes' 3-1 win in March 2019.
Fulham have kept a clean sheet in 67 per cent of their PL meetings with Leicester, doing so in four out of six matches. Only against Derby County do they have a better such record in the competition, with 75 per cent.
The Cottagers have won four of their last six PL matches played on a Monday. Their only win this season came on that day, against West Bromwich Albion.
Match officials
Referee: Simon Hooper. Assistants: Derek Eaton, Harry Lennard. Fourth official: Andy Madley. VAR: Darren England. Assistant VAR: Stephen Child.
https://www.premierleague.com/news/1904847
Former Fulham and Portsmouth midfielder Papa Bouba Diop - one of the heroes of Senegal's run to the World Cup quarter-finals in 2002 after scoring the winner in opening game against France - dies aged 42 after long illness
Former Senegal midfielder Papa Bouba Diop has died aged 42 after a long illness
Diop played for Fulham and Portsmouth in the Premier League and won FA Cup
He scored winner in Senegal's memorable 1-0 win vs France at 2002 World Cup
Former Senegal international Papa Bouba Diop has passed away after a long illness at the age of 42.
Diop was one of the heroes of Senegal's memorable run to the 2002 World Cup quarter-finals, scoring the only goal in a shock 1-0 victory over then-holders France in their opening game.
The former midfielder played for Fulham and Portsmouth in the Premier League - winning the FA Cup with Pompey in 2008.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/11/29/18/36234838-8998725-image-m-43_1606673838641.jpg)
Former Senegal international Papa Bouba Diop has passed away at age of 42 after long illness
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/11/29/18/36234832-8998725-image-a-45_1606673863474.jpg)
Diop scored the winner in a famous 1-0 win for Senegal against France at the 2002 World Cup
FIFA confirmed the news on Sunday evening after several reports had emerged, although further details of his passing are not yet clear.
The Senegal side won the hearts of many for their performance in the 2002 tournament in Japan and South Korea, with Diop also scoring twice in a 3-3 group stage draw against Uruguay before they were eliminated by Turkey in the last eight.
He was also a member of Pompey's triumphant 2008 FA Cup side, being introduced by manager Harry Redknapp as a late substitute in the 1-0 Final victory over Cardiff City.
Tributes are already pouring in for Diop, including former club Fulham who tweeted: 'We are devastated to hear news reports this evening that Papa Bouba Diop has passed away, aged 42. Rest well, Wardrobe'.
Fellow former club Portsmouth also paid their respects: 'We're devastated to hear reports that FA Cup winner Papa Bouba Diop has passed away after a long illness, aged just 42 Rest in peace, The Wardrobe.'
In a much-travelled career amassing 325 games and 63 internationals, Diop also played for clubs in Switzerland, France and Greece.
He returned to play in England for West Ham United and then Birmingham City before his retirement in 2013.
Former Portsmouth midfielder Chris Kamara said that he was devastated to read the news.
'Didn't know he'd been ill... he's been taken too young,' Kamara tweeted. 'We used to have a good chuckle together about me calling him "The Man Mountain Himself" RIP Papa.'
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-8998725/Former-Fulham-Portsmouth-midfielder-Papa-Bouba-Diop-dies-42-long-illness.html
Former Fulham and West Ham midfielder Papa Bouba Diop dies aged 42
Former West Ham, Fulham and Portsmouth midfielder Papa Bouba Diop, remembered for his World Cup heroics with Senegal, has passed away following a long battle with illness.
Former West Ham United and Fulham midfielder Papa Bouba Diop has passed away.
It has been confirmed that Diop died today, aged 42, following a long battle with illness.
Diop was a favourite at Fulham, representing the club between 2004 and 2007, making more than 70 league appearances after arriving from Lens, eventually departing for Portsmouth.
He later joined AEK Athens before returning to England to join West Ham, playing 16 times in the league before brief spell with Birmingham City.
Beyond his club efforts, Diop will be remembered as one of the heroes of Senegal's 2002 World Cup campaign when he and his country made the quarter-finals, eventually bowing out to Turkey.
Diop made 63 appearances for Senegal in all, scoring 11 times, and that included his nation's first goal at the 2002 World Cup, a treasured moment for many in the African country.
During his time at West Ham, Diop was promoted as part of the play-off-winning side of 2012 and that wasn't the only honour of his career.
He also won the FA Cup with Portsmouth in 2008, coming off the bench with 12 minutes to go in their 1-0 win over Cardiff City in the final.
That FA Cup winners' medal added to a Swiss Super League title he won in 2001 with the Zurich Grasshoppers, and he picked up an African Cup of Nations runner-up medal a year later with Senegal.
During his playing career, the 6ft5" Diop was nicknamed 'The Wardrobe' due to his stature, with Manchester United legend Paul Scholes once naming him as one of his trickiest opponents.
"There's one more that people won't think of," Scholes once recalled on BBC Radio. "We used to play against Portsmouth. Do you remember Papa Bouba Diop? Big, massive. They used to call him The Wardrobe!
"You get involved physically with him and you're wasting your time.
"I always found him awkward to play against. He wasn't a Vieira, of course he wasn't, but he still had talent.
"As far as players being awkward to play against. I always found him a nuisance."
Diop passed away in France, the country against which he scored that famous World Cup goal in 2002.
https://www.football.london/west-ham-united-fc/news/breaking-west-ham-united-papa-19368694
Papa Bouba Diop: Former Senegal, Fulham & Portsmouth midfielder dies aged 42
Former Senegal, Fulham and Portsmouth midfielder Papa Bouba Diop has died aged 42.
Diop made 129 appearances in the Premier League and also had spells in England with West Ham United and Birmingham City.
He played for Senegal at the 2002 World Cup, scoring the winner in the tournament's opening game as his country beat France 1-0.
"Once a World Cup hero, always a World Cup hero," Fifa posted on social media.
A post on Fulham's Twitter account said the club was "devastated" and, using Diop's nickname, added: "Rest well, Wardrobe."
Senegal reached the quarter-finals of the 2002 World Cup, with Diop going on to score twice more in the 3-3 group-stage draw with Uruguay.
He also featured at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including when Senegal were runners-up in 2002. He retired in 2013.
Diop helped Portsmouth, who were managed by Harry Redknapp at the time, win the FA Cup in 2008.
"He was such a wonderful character," Redknapp told BBC Radio 5 Live. "He was fantastic for me, a great character, always happy and always had a smile on his face. He was a giant of a man.
"He had no aggression in him. He looked aggressive on the pitch because he was so big, but there was nothing nasty about him.
"My thoughts are with all his family."
Macky Sall, the president of Senegal, called Diop's death "a great loss for Senegal" while Liverpool's Senegal midfielder Sadio Mane wrote on his Instagram: "Pape Bouba, it was with a broken heart that we learned of your (death). Know that you will forever remain in our hearts even if you left without saying goodbye to us."
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55124939
Papa Bouba Diop: 1978-2020(https://images-v2.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1600x1600/b88fe270-3272-11eb-9549-6d8283c111b8.jpg)
Everyone connected with Fulham was devastated to hear news reports on Sunday evening that Papa Bouba Diop had passed away aged 42.
The midfielder was a cult hero at Craven Cottage. But while he was an intimidating presence on the pitch, he was the complete opposite off it.
A warm, kind man, his infectious personality brightened the day of teammates and staff alike at Motspur Park.
Bouba Diop first came to prominence at the 2002 World Cup when he scored the winning goal as Senegal shocked holders France in the competition opener.
Chris Coleman brought him to Fulham in the summer of 2004 and he quickly became a crowd favourite, with his uncompromising performances in the middle of the park and physical stature earning him the nickname of The Wardrobe.
In his three seasons at the Club, Bouba Diop made 84 appearances and scored nine goals. Possessing an absolute jackhammer of a right foot, his late equaliser against Manchester United at the Hammersmith End will live long in the memory.
After leaving the Whites, Bouba Diop spent time at Portsmouth – where he won the FA Cup – Birmingham City, and West Ham United.
Our thoughts and sympathies are now with Bouba's family and friends at this terrible time.
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https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/november/Papa-Bouba-Diop-1978-2020/
Former Fulham midfielder Papa Bouba Diop dies
Tributes paid as Senegal World Cup star passes away at the age of 42
Former Fulham and Portsmouth midfielder Papa Bouba Diop has died at the age of 42.
Diop, who won 63 caps for Senegal, scored the goal which secured a historic 1-0 win over France in their opening FIFA World Cup match in 2002.
The midfielder joined Fulham from Lens two years later and excelled as a powerful defensive midfield enforcer.
Diop went on to make 98 Premier League appearances for Fulham and scored 10 goals.
He played a further 53 times in the top flight after joining Portsmouth in 2007 where he became an FA Cup winner 12 months later.
Diop then had a spell with AEK Athens before returning to sign for West Ham United in 2011 and enjoyed a brief stint at Birmingham City.
The Premier League would like to offer sincere condolences to Papa's family, friends and all those who worked with him at this sad time.
https://www.premierleague.com/news/1919739
Anguissa can help Fulham tackle Leicester challenge(https://resources.premierleague.com/photos/2020/11/27/851cfc36-f251-4cf3-8782-bdd600e0022a/TalkingTactics-Anguissa.png?width=930&height=620)
Adrian Clarke says Cameroonian is one of Premier League's best dribbling defensive midfielders Adrian Clarke looks at key tactical points in Matchweek 10.
Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has made a tremendous impression for Fulham since returning from a season-long loan at Villarreal.
He was left out of Scott Parker's starting XI against Everton in Matchweek 9 following his exertions over the international break but impressed as a second-half substitute in the 3-2 defeat.
The Cameroon midfielder is almost certain to be recalled for Monday's trip to Leicester City.
He is the team's best ball-winner and is capable of opening up the pitch with a clever piece of skill.
Best dribblers 2020/21| Attempted dribbles | | Successful dribbles | |
| Adama Traore | 51 | Adama Traore | 34 |
| Allan Saint-Maximin | 47 | Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa | 30 |
| Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa | 46 | Allan Saint-Maximin | 29 |
| Mohamed Salah | 43 | Sadio Mane | 23 |
Anguissa is the Premier League's best central-midfield dribbler.
He travels extremely well with the ball in tight areas and has attempted 46 take-ons this season, five fewer than the Premier League's stat leader, Adama Traore of Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Yves Bissouma is the next most prolific dribbler from central midfield but the Brighton & Hove Albion player attempted less than half of Anguissa's total in the first nine Matchweeks.
By breaking the lines Anguissa allows Fulham to create better goalscoring opportunities than their league position, 19th, might indicate.
He may have only one assist to his name but Anguissa played a key role in helping Fulham create the sixth-most chances of all Premier League teams heading into Matchweek 10.
Anguissa's influence | Fulham rank | 1st | | 2nd | |
| Possession won | Anguissa | 65 | Cairney | 37 |
| Tackles | Anguissa | 21 | Lookman | 12 |
| Duels won | Anguissa | 65 | Mitrovic | 54 |
| Interceptions | Anguissa | 13 | Aina | 12 |
Anguissa's primary role is to win the ball back and in this regard he has become an invaluable presence.
Although he has started only seven of nine matches, the number of tackles and ball recoveries he has made in comparison to his team-mates is remarkable.
He can be guilty of losing possession at times but without him Fulham would certainly enjoy less of the ball
One of the best
The 25-year-old is among the most effective defensive midfielders in the top flight. Indeed, West Ham United's Tomas Soucek is the only player in his position to win more duels.
And when it comes to winning possession, only Rodri, Allan, Bissouma, Youri Tielemans and Declan Rice show better statistics.
Anguissa is a player to keep your eye on this season. If he maintains his level of output, his reputation will soar.
https://www.premierleague.com/news/1915670
Former Fulham boss Chris Coleman pays emotional tribute following the 'truly sad loss' of Papa Bouba Diop at the age of 42, admitting he was 'one of my favourite players I've work worked with'
Papa Bouba Diop passed away following a long illness at the age of 42
Diop played for Fulham and Portsmouth in the Premier League and won FA Cup
Chris Coleman has paid his respects to his former Fulham defensive midfielder
The former Fulham boss brought Diop to English football from Lens in 2004
Former Fulham manager Chris Coleman has paid an emotional tribute to Papa Bouba Diop after he passed away following a long illness at the age of 42.
Former Senegal international Diop, who featured for Fulham and Portsmouth, played 129 matches in the Premier League.
And following the tragic news of his death, ex-Fulham boss Coleman, who brought Diop to English football from French club Lens in 2004, led the tributes.
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The football world is mourning the death of former Senegal international Papa Bouba Diop
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Coleman paid tribute to Diop, saying he was 'one of my favourite players I've worked with'
Coleman told the Sun: 'I'm gutted to hear the news. It's so sad.
'Papa was one of my favourite players I've worked with. He did a great job for me at Fulham but, more importantly, he was a lovely person.
'He had time for everyone and treated people with respect. It's truly a sad loss.'
The former defensive midfielder played 82 times for Fulham between 2004 and 2007, scoring nine goals and producing two assists.
After his time at Craven Cottage - where he enjoyed a brilliant relationship with the Fulham fans - Diop joined Portsmouth where he made another 72 appearances.
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Diop was part of the Portsmouth side that won 2008 FA Cup after coming on as a sub in final
Diop was also a member of Pompey's triumphant 2008 FA Cup side, being introduced by manager Harry Redknapp as a late substitute in the 1-0 final victory over Cardiff City.
He would then go on to feature for both West Ham and Birmingham City after a brief stint away from England with AEK Athens.
Diop was also one of the heroes of Senegal's memorable run to the 2002 World Cup quarter-finals, scoring the only goal in a shock 1-0 victory over then-holders France in their opening game.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/11/29/18/36234832-8998725-image-a-45_1606673863474.jpg)
Diop scored the winner in a famous 1-0 win for Senegal against France at the 2002 World Cup
FIFA had confirmed the news on Sunday evening of Diop's death after several reports had emerged, although further details of his passing are not yet clear.
Tributes immediately poured in for Diop, with former club Fulham tweeting: 'We are devastated to hear news reports this evening that Papa Bouba Diop has passed away, aged 42. Rest well, Wardrobe'.
Fellow former club Portsmouth also paid their respects: 'We're devastated to hear reports that FA Cup winner Papa Bouba Diop has passed away after a long illness, aged just 42. Rest in peace, The Wardrobe.'
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9000301/Chris-Coleman-pays-emotional-tribute-former-Fulham-star-Papa-Bouba-Diop-following-death.html
Leicester City predicted line-up v Fulham: Five changes but who will be replaced?
Leicester City are looking to join Tottenham and Liverpool at the top of the Premier League with victory over Fulham in the Monday evening kick-off at the King Power
Leicester City's second-half heroes in Braga are set to return to the starting line-up when Brendan Rodgers' side host Fulham on Monday evening.
After they were left out of the 11 in Portugal, Wesley Fofana, Youri Tielemans, James Maddison, and Jamie Vardy played a key role in the second period with Rodgers bringing them to turn around proceedings.
Now, with City looking to move level on points with Tottenham and Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table, they are set to return to the side.
That quartet, plus midfielder Papy Mendy are the five expected changes for the clash at the King Power Stadium.
While some will be straight swaps, like Mendy for Hamza Choudhury, Maddison for Cengiz Under, and Vardy for Kelechi Iheanacho, Rodgers has decisions to make elsewhere.
In bringing Tielemans back into the side, he could go drop Dennis Praet to the bench, but he could also withdraw Harvey Barnes, and push Praet into one of the support roles behind Vardy.
However, with City expected to dominate, Rodgers may be more likely to opt for the more attacking option of Barnes.
At the back, Fofana could replace a number of players. On Thursday, he was introduced for Christian Fuchs, with the Frenchman dropping into a back three alongside Jonny Evans and James Justin.
That could be the swap again, with Fuchs perhaps deserving of a rest. He has started the last eight games, the current longest streak of any City outfield player.
Alternatively, Fofana could come in for Marc Albrighton or Luke Thomas, with Justin then pushed forward to fill a wing-back slot on either side.
Rodgers had hoped to have Timothy Castagne back from a hamstring problem by now, but after a recurrence prevented him from playing against Liverpool, he was reassessed. The manager had then hoped he would be available for Fulham, but in a pre-match interview, he said he would be choosing from the same set of players that travelled to Braga.
Predicted City XI (3-4-2-1): Schmeichel; Fofana, Evans, Justin; Albrighton, Mendy, Tielemans, Thomas; Maddison, Barnes; Vardy.
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/leicester-city-predicted-line-up-4748554
Areola admits turning down Champions League Rennes for Fulham chance
Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola admits turning down a Champions League move with Rennes.
Areola is currently on-loan at Fulham from PSG. He had spent last season on-loan with Real Madrid, where he acted primarily as cover for No1 Thibaut Courtois.
After 12 months playing behind the Belgian, Areola admits finding a club where he knew he would be given the chance to perform regularly was the priority for this campaign.
Even with Rennes qualifying for the Champions League, Areola explained he couldn't consider the switch with no assurances regarding playing chances.
He told Canal+ via Le 10 Sport, "Why did I refuse Rennes for Fulham? There were discussions, but it was not clear. At one point, you had to be in your 'humble' head, start from behind to be able to bounce back better.
"Of course, coming out of Paris and Madrid, I certainly had opportunities, of the same calibre yes, but I needed this to be clear.
"Tell me: 'you play, it's you in the goal and now, we count on you'. That's all."
Areola also intimated his future with PSG could be over. The France international admits playing as a reserve to Costa Rica captain Keylor Navas is something he has no interest in.
"Come back to number 2 behind Keylor Navas at PSG? For me no, it was not at all possible, I lived it in Madrid. I knew I was coming in as number two. But it was Real Madrid."
Areola is on a season-long with the Cottagers from PSG, where he is contracted to 2023.
This season, Areola has made nine appearances for Fulham, conceding 15 goals. He also boasts two clean sheets so far.
https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/areola-admits-turning-down-champions-league-rennes-for-fulham-chance-4349536#popup-sso
Leicester City v Fulham(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/976/cpsprodpb/F005/production/_115654416_gettyimages-1229679038.jpg)
Leicester's Timothy Castagne has not played since the end of October.
TEAM NEWSLeicester defender Timothy Castagne could return from the hamstring injury that has ruled him out for a month.Midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is closing in on a comeback after a groin injury but this game will likely come too soon.
Fulham forward Aboubakar Kamara is available again after completing a three-match ban.
Scott Parker has no other reported injury concerns, with Kenny Tete and Terence Kongolo still out with respective calf and foot problems.
LAWRO'S PREDICTIONLeicester ended up being well beaten at Anfield last weekend but the chance Harvey Barnes had to equalise for them at 1-0 was massive. If he'd scored then, there might have been a bit more doubt in the Liverpool defence.
The Foxes didn't give much service to Jamie Vardy as they chased the game but I don't see this one going the same way.
I know Leicester's home form hasn't been brilliant, but I look at Fulham and they are so open.
Prediction: 2-0
MATCH FACTSHead-to-head Leicester's 3-1 home victory in the most recent meeting, in March 2019, ended their five-match Premier League winless run against Fulham (D3, L2).
The last five encounters in all competitions have produced an average of five goals per game.
Leicester City Leicester have won three of their last four league matches.
However, they have lost two of their last three home league games, scoring just one goal.
Eighteen points is their joint-highest tally after nine matches of a top-flight season. They were on 19 points after 10 fixtures of their title-winning campaign in 2015-16.
The Foxes have won both of their Monday Premier League games so far in 2020 by an aggregate score of 8-1.
None of Leicester's last 13 Premier League games have ended level (W7, L6), the longest current run without a draw in the competition.
Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers has won all seven of his Premier League meetings against Fulham
Fulham Fulham have lost seven of their nine league games this season (W1, D1).
Their solitary win in the past 25 Premier League away matches came at Bournemouth in April 2019 (D3, L21).
They are yet to keep a clean sheet away from home in this season's Premier League.
Prior to the latest round of matches, no side had conceded more Premier League goals than Fulham's 18 this season; six of those goals have come in the opening 15 minutes of games.
The Cottagers have missed five of their past eight Premier League penalties - each miss has come from a different player.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55039202
Fulham players to mark Papa Bouba Diop's death with black armbands
(https://static.standard.co.uk/2020/11/30/10/2020-11-29T183019Z_1535942240_RC26DK9E37FE_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-SENEGAL-DIOP.jpg?width=990)
diop301120a / Action Images
Fulham players will this evening wear black armbands against Leicester City in memory of Papa Bouba Diop following their former player's death on Sunday.
After starring at the 2002 World Cup, where he scored the winner for Senegal against France in the tournament opener, Diop joined Fulham and spent three years at Craven Cottage, earning the nickname "The Wardrobe".
He passed away over the weekend aged just 42.
"We are devastated to hear news reports this evening that Papa Bouba Diop has passed away," the club said last night. "Rest well, Wardrobe."
Every Premier League game over the weekend marked the passing of Diego Maradona with a minute's applause and black armbands, and on Monday night Diop will also be remembered at the London Stadium as West Ham host Aston Villa.
Harry Redknapp, who managed Diop at Portsmouth where the pair won the FA Cup in 2008, said: "He was such a wonderful character.
"He was fantastic for me, a great character, always happy and always had a smile on his face. He was a giant of a man.
"He had no aggression in him. He looked aggressive on the pitch because he was so big, but there was nothing nasty about him.
"My thoughts are with all his family."
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-news-papa-bouba-diop-death-black-armbands-b114538.html
Is Antonee Robinson really an upgrade on Joe Bryan?
Is our American full-back a cut above our play-off hero? Sean Guest looks into the numbers.
Not so long ago, Joe Bryan was on top of the world. The two-goal hero of our Championship play-off final victory over Brentford had led us back to the Premier League, been named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year and agreed to a contract extension that will keep him at Craven Cottage until 2023. Things were looking rosy. That is until the new season began.
Fulham's first four games were a disaster defensively, forcing Scott Parker to mix things up. Against Wolves, new recruit Antonee Robinson made his debut at left-back, while Bryan played in an advanced left midfield role. Despite a competent performance, he was substituted in the 65th minute and hasn't returned to the starting line-up since.
Robinson has ultimately proved himself as a starter in that time, offering Fulham a pacey, powerful attacking option on the left flank. Over the past couple of games he's looked less than stellar defensively though, raising the question: is he really an upgrade on Sir Joe?
At the back
When Robinson first broke into the team, he immediately looked like a step up defensively. After conceding 10 goals in our first three games, we let in just five in our next five thanks to Robinson and the new-look, post-transfer window backline.
But last Sunday, Fulham looked more like their old selves again, struggling to contain a potent Everton attack from the off. And while Ola Aina took most of the flack for his poor display at right-back, Robinson had his own struggles on the other flank, typified by his attempt to stop this Alex Iwobi drive.
Incredibly, his SofaScore match rating (6.7) was lower than Aina's (6.8) thanks to the fact that he made no successful tackles (Aina made two), registered just one interception (Aina made three) won just four duels (Aina won six), lost possession 21 times (Aina, 18) and posted a pass accuracy rating of 76%. Meanwhile, in the previous game against West Ham, he made two successful tackles and no interceptions, won five duels, lost possession a whopping 26 times and recorded a pass accuracy rating of 69%.
While this might seem like the start of a concerning trend, Robinson has otherwise been a solid defensive option for us, recording the sixth most tackles per game (1.7) and the seventh most interceptions (1.2). The bulk of his appearances have, however, come against weaker opponents, while the rate at which he turns the ball over – he leads all Fulham players in possession lost per game (21.5) – could prove especially costly against opponents like Leicester, Man City and Liverpool, who are devastating on the break.
For this reason alone, Parker may want to consider giving Bryan an opportunity to prove his worth on Monday. At 12.2, his possession lost rating is considerably lower, while he's averaged 1.4 tackles and a considerably better 1.8 interceptions per game this season.
Bryan is, after all, a better defender than he often gets credit for. Last season he finished 5th overall in tackles won (72) by all Championship defenders while also making 45 interceptions in 43 appearances. Head to head with Robinson, he's won more tackles (6 to 5), been dribbled past less (4 to 6), registered more blocks (12 to 11) and more interceptions (8 to 7) in two fewer starts this season.
These differences are marginal though, and it's important to remember that Bryan's positioning isn't always great, his desire on the defensive end can be lacking and he has a tendency to lose focus in scenarios such as this. Additionally, it's worth noting that Robinson has recorded more successful pressures (18 to 14), particularly in the defensive third (24 to 15), considerably more clearances (24 to 10), recoveries (52 to 32) and aerial duels (8 to 2).
Going forward
Over the past six games, Robinson has appeared to offer Fulham some real attacking verve. As Ben observed in his recent article, he's "rightly drawn plaudits for his explosiveness and finally some much needed pace in wide areas". He's also been one of our more effective sources of creativity in that time and is currently fourth amongst all Fulham players in shot creating actions with 20 (17 of which have come from live-ball passes), joint-third in goal creating actions (thanks to his role in this goal against West Brom) and third (behind only Tom Cairney and Aleksandar Mitrović) in expected goals assisted with 0.7.
Interestingly, he leads all Fulham players in crosses, with 30, although he's still yet to record a single assist. This is something that could be attributed to our poor goal-per-shot total, which currently stands at 0.07 (while opponents have managed 0.15 against us). Although, according to SofaScore, he has an accurate crosses rating of just 32% (1.7 per game), which may also have something to do with it.
This is an interesting consideration, particularly in light of the fact that crossing has, in the past, been one of Bryan's strengths. His attacking ability more broadly saw the Premier League's official website single him out as one of Fulham's best FPL assets ahead of the new season. As the article says, last season, "Bryan's 38 shots were more than the combined 30 of the rest of the Cottagers' regular back four while he was 'Fulham's standout creator from defence, supplying 43 key passes". On top of that, his corner duties meant "he created 12 big chances, second only to the 14 of Ivan Cavaleiro".
Like Robinson, Bryan isn't much of a goal threat himself (beyond play-off finals that is). But, along with Cavaleiro, he led Fulham in assists last season with seven, while his assists per 90-minute rating (0.18) ranked fourth-best among Fulham players. This season, his accurate crosses rating is a feeble 22% (1.0 per game), but his ability to link up with Mitrović in the final third (which The Athletic's Peter Rutzler highlighted in his article on the Serbian's first 50 goals for Fulham) is something Parker may want to consider going forward, particularly given that Mitrović hasn't scored since his brace against Leeds in mid-September.
Upgrade or not?
While we may be missing Bryan's ability to whip the ball into the box, Robinson does appear to be the more well-rounded option at left-back. The team has, overall, looked better defensively with him in the fray and although Sunday's performance left a lot to be desired, it's important to remember that Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa's omission from the midfield left the backline exposed in a way that it hasn't been in recent games.
If Robinson can do a better job of maintaining possession, his positional sense and ability to force opponents into making mistakes in wide areas could be huge for Fulham defensively, while his industriousness on the other end of the pitch is sure to eventually yield results.
Due to Robinson's relative lack of experience, Bryan may be called upon against more accomplished opponents, such as those we face over the next couple of weeks, or for rotational purposes. He may even return to the more advanced role he found himself playing in against Wolves at some point.
But for now, the left-back spot appears to be Robinson's to lose. Not bad for a player who cost just £1.9m.
https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2020-11-30-is-antonee-robinson-really-an-upgrade-on-joe-bryan/
Fulham Winger Jasper Names The First Team Player He Admires The Most; Targets
Fulham winger of Nigerian descent Sylvester Jasper has revealed that Tom Cairney is the first team player he admires the most at the Cottagers but admitted that he learns from each player whenever he is called up to train with the main squad.
The highly-rated teenager has made three appearances to date for Fulham's first team comprising two matches in the Championship and the other in an Emirates FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.
On the first team player he admires the most, Jasper told Fulham's YouTube page : "Probably Tom Cairney, just technical, things I can learn the way he does it, a couple of things.
"I feel like mainly from the whole group I can take things up from each, each player you can take a little something and then add it to your game because I feel like that's the beauty of training with a collective of first team players."
Jasper is targeting a first team breakthrough at Fulham and if everything goes according to plan it's a goal that is achievable having played three games off the bench in the 2019-2020 season.
"Obviously everyone wants to be involved with first team football, so I, of course, want to breakthrough to the first team.
"If that is impossible, then of course alone would be a good way to develop, play first team football, get used to the environment and surrounding, play against first team players, and then hopefully then we'll be able to move forward, break into the first team and that's the goal," he added.
The 19-year-old Jasper is eligible to represent Nigeria through his father, Bulgaria through his mother and England where he was born.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=38176
Plymouth Argyle young loan trio 'a breath of fresh air' says Ryan Lowe
The Pilgrims' boss has given his verdict on Kell Watts, Jerome Opoku and Tyrese Fornah
(https://i2-prod.plymouthherald.co.uk/sport/football/article4749504.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_301120-loans.jpg)
Argyle's on-loan trio (from left) Tyrese Fornah, Jerome Opoku and Kell Watts - Photos: Dave Rowntree/PPAUK (Image: Dave Rowntree/PPAUK)
Ryan Lowe says the loan spells at Plymouth Argyle of young trio Tyrese Fornah, Jerome Opoku and Kell Watts could not have gone any better so far.
Fornah and Watts have been borrowed by the Pilgrims until the end of the season, from Nottingham and Forest and Newcastle United respectively.
Opoku, meanwhile, is on loan from Fulham until January, although it would be no surprise if Lowe tried to extend it for the rest of the campaign.
Lowe said: "The three of them have been a breath of fresh air for us. They are honest, good working lads.
"I'm really pleased with them, it couldn't have gone any better so far for them.
"There will be ups and downs, I'm sure, along the way with them but they have been fantastic."
All three players are gaining valuable first team experience to aid their development while Argyle have been able to add raw talent to their squad, so it has been a win-win.
Here is Lowe's assessment of each player:
KELL WATTS
Age 21 Defender
17 starts, two goals
"Kell has been phenomenal. I don't want to single him out and give him too much praise because it's only a quarter of the way through the season.
"He has had two loan spells before so he knows what it's about, and he has two different types of teams.
"At Mansfield they tried to play a little bit but went long, and at Stevenage they certainly did go long. Now he has come into a footballing team."
JEROME OPOKU
Age 22 Defender
Nine starts, three substitute appearances, one goal
"Jerome was at Accrington last season and played a lot of games at left wing-back and was high up the pitch.
"We played him there against Hull and he did okay about being six months out.
"He has gone in the middle of the three and he has dominated. The way he has played against senior nines who have been at this level for years and years has been very good."
TYRESE FORNAH
Age: 21 Midfielder
1 starts, one substitute appearance
"Tyrese has had one loan before, in Portugal (with second division side Casa Pia). He is loving every minute of his time here.
"He's a great footballer, but we are always striving for a little bit more, so with Tyrese he can handle the ball on the pitch but we want him to move it a little bit quicker, which he knows and he understands."
https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/sport/football/plymouth-argyle-young-loan-trio-4749464
'Fulham Signed Young & Hungry Players In The Summer'
Malik Ouzia, a Sports Reporter for the London Evening Standard, has pointed to Fulham's youthful squad ahead of their visit to King Power Stadium on Monday.
- Fulham travel to King Power Stadium to face Leicester City on Monday (5:30pm kick-off)
- London Evening Standard reporter Malik Ouzia spoke to LCFC TV ahead of the fixture
- Ouzia highlighted the youth of Scott Parker's squad in his pre-match assessment
- Live coverage of the game begins at 4pm on Monday evening, live on LCFC social media and LCFC.com
Leicester City welcome Scott Parker's men to Filbert Way on the back of a 3-3 draw with SC Braga in the UEFA Europa League, while the Cottagers were narrowly beaten by Everton last time out.
Ahead of the fixture in Leicester, a 5:30pm kick-off, Ouzia spoke to LCFC TV's Matchday Live preview show to assess how the encounter could unfold.
"You look at Fulham's start to the season and, obviously, it's been a very difficult one," he said earlier this week.
"The only points they've picked up have been against two other struggling teams in West Brom and Sheffield United, so it's going to be a long, difficult season for Fulham.
"There's been no shirking that from Scott Parker from the start. These next three games, against Leicester, Man City and Liverpool, it's difficult to see that changing in the next couple of weeks.
"The fear is that the style of play that Fulham employ, they will try and keep the ball and try and dominate possession, which could just play into Leicester's hands.
"We've seen Leicester do really well against teams who play in a similar way in Man City and Arsenal, where they just destroyed them on the counter attack.
"Fulham's backline has been accused of being a bit naïve at times and Leicester are exactly the type of team who would be able to exploit that.
"We saw last week that Everton scored three goals. They could have had plenty more, really, even though it ended up being a close game as far as the result was concerned.
"If Leicester are a bit more ruthless, then it would be concerning."
While Fulham have struggled defensively, goals have been hard to come by, too, for a side who netted 64 times in the Sky Bet Championship, en route to promotion last season.
"There are problems at both ends of the pitch," Ouzia continued. "Fulham have been up against it from the start in terms of this unique season and the delay to last season.
"They played the play-off final in early August and five and a half weeks later, they were playing Arsenal on the first weekend of this season, so it was a very quick turnaround.
"They weren't able to get off to a good start and they had to do a bit of transfer business late. The defensive problems have been well documented.
"They've got quite a young, inexperienced backline in the main, with one or two exceptions, including the goalkeeper (Alphonse Areola).
"They have some young, promising players, which is something they were very conscious of doing in the market, having spent huge amounts of money last time they came up.
"They wanted young, hungry players, but they've perhaps not got a here-and-now solution."
Aleksandar Mitrović, on the other hand, is a player Leicester fans will know well in Fulham's squad and many will assume it is only a matter of time before he starts to find the net consistently.
"At the other end of the pitch, obviously Mitrović coming up into the Premier League looked as much of a sure thing you can get in terms of a player coming out of the Championship," Ouzia added.
"He's been proven in the Premier League before and scored lots of goals at this level, but he hasn't fired yet, also for Serbia in the international break.
"I think his only goals this season have come against Leeds who, obviously, were in the Championship last year as well, so they've been really up against it at both ends of the pitch."
All times GMT.
https://www.lcfc.com/news/1920514/fulham-signed-young--hungry-players-in-the-summer
"As long as I'm under contract, it's not over" – Fulham man eyeing opportunity elsewhere if he can get it
Arriving in September, Alphonse Aréola was the man Fulham chose to keep their nets safe in the Premier League.
The Frenchman had just spent the 2019-20 season on loan at Real Madrid, where he mostly played second fiddle to Thibaut Courtois before returning to Paris Saint-Germain.
Once there, it was made clear he wasn't the number one choice, with Keylor Navas given that role by Thomas Tuchel, meaning another move was needed to stop him from stagnating even further.
Fulham were the chosen ones, and apart from sitting out the 3-0 loss to Arsenal on opening day, the Frenchman has been used by Scott Parker for every game since, conceding 15 goals in eight games and keeping just the one clean sheet.
The Cottagers were always going to be part of the relegation battle, and even with Aréola in goal, wins have been hard to come by.
Fulham have an option to make the 27-year-old's move permanent if they so wish, but it appears the three time France international has his eyes set on winning back that Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper job if he can get it.
Speaking to Canal Football Club over the weekend, he said: "I left, I came back, I left again just to be able to express myself more. As long as I'm under contract (at Paris Saint-Germain), it's not over. I'm here".
Aréola's deal in the French capital is due to expire in 2023, meaning there is still time for him to get his wish, all depending on whether Fulham stay up and decide to try and convince him to stay.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/long-im-contract-not-fulham-man-eyeing-opportunity-elsewhere-can-get/
Official Club App Launched(https://images-v2.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1600x1600/62c366a0-3308-11eb-91c5-454ae845124d.jpg)
Introducing the official new mobile app for Fulham FC, available now on iOS and Android.
Rebuilt and relaunched to provide a greater online experience of following Fulham, the new official Club app keeps you up to date with the very best access to all things Fulham wherever you are.
Download for iOS from App Store
Download for Android from Google Play
LIVE MATCH CENTRE
Follow live match coverage of every game, with access to the latest team line-ups, live text commentary, match stats, scores from around the grounds, league tables and more.
LATEST NEWS & VIDEO
Follow the Club with all the latest Fulham news and video in one place; including match highlights and interviews from across all teams, the latest galleries and match reports, as well as all the latest fixtures and results.
PLAYER PROFILES
Find out more about the players which make up our Men's, Women's, Under 23 and Under 18 Teams, with enhanced profiles detailing biographies, stats and the latest player news and related videos.
FFCtv
Fans with an FFCtv subscription can access their account to enjoy exclusive video-on-demand as well as live audio commentary of all Men's fixtures.
ACCESS TO ALL-THINGS FULHAM
Instant access to the official Club website, fulhamfc.com, as well as online store and ticketing sites. Supporters also have the option to turn on in-game notifications, to receive updates and key alerts directly to your device.
DOWNLOAD TODAY
Supporters who previously had access to the 'FFCtv App' simply need to update this app currently installed on their device.
Fans looking to download the Official Fulham FC App for the first time can head to the Apple Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android) and search for: 'Fulham FC'.
Please note, the previous 'Fulham FC' app is no longer in use and can be deleted from your device.
Download for iOS from App Store
Download for Android from Google Play
Live matchday audio access requires an active, paid subscription to FFCtv.
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/november/Official-Club-App-Launched/
Leicester City vs Fulham: 30/11/2020 – match preview and predicted starting XIs
Leicester City vs Fulham
Date: 30/11/2020
K/O: 17:30
Venue: King Power Stadium
Referee: Simon Hooper
TV: Sky Sports
The King Power Stadium plays host to a contest from two ends of the table on Monday evening as Leicester City take on Fulham.
Though both sides are coming off Premier League losses (Leicester's last game was a draw in the Europa league – more on that in a minute), the odds here are stacked heavily in the Foxes' favour. Leicester seem to be reaching a level where, even if they play poorly, a win against the lower order sides is almost guaranteed. But don't expect Fulham to come in expecting a defeat; Scott Parker has instilled an act of courage in this team that could catch Brendan Rodger's side off-guard.
Confidence, Persistence, and Frank Zambo Anguissa.
While Fulham have taken no points from their last two league games, they were performances that probably deserved them. On both occasions Fulham strived desperately to come back from behind, only to be undone by an issue that is starting to plague them: missed penalties. First, it was Ademola Lookman, whose failed Panenka has quickly become infamous.
Official penalty-taking duty was then shifted to Aleksandar Mitrovic, but the Serb's own missed penalty on international duty saw him relieved of the burden. Responsibility was then shifted to Ivan Cavaleiro – only for him to slip while taking it and rocket it over the bar as a result. The Cottagers will be starting to think that penalties are cursed for them, and you wouldn't blame them for thinking so.
While penalties have loomed over the retrospective look of these games like bad weather, it should also be noted that Fulham twice put themselves in a position to come back from behind. While their game against the Hammers hinged on the penalty, Fulham's match against Everton was much more representative of their qualities. Bobby Decordova Reid's 15th-minute goal was a solid reply to Everton's lead, while own Ruben Loftus Cheek's 70th-minute goal came straight after the missed penalty. Scott Parker is showing that his side aren't phased by going behind, and their constant and persistent search for answers will soon pay off when their bad luck runs out.
One shining star during this poor start is the statistical performance of Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa. Anguissa has been a powerful force in the Cottager's midfield, and it has started to show in the stats. When looking at the numbers, Anguissa is one of the best ball-carrying midfielders in Europe. His 'progressive carrying distance' (distance spent dribbling forward) is phenomenal at an average of 200m per match and only bettered by three midfielders in the whole of Europe: Frenkie de Jong, Kevin De Bruyne, and Joshua Kimmich; fine company to be in. Anguissa has also proved himself to be a fantastic forward passer too, with an average of 5.5 progressive passes per 90 which is just shy of Barcelona's De Jong's numbers. If Fulham want a result at Leicester, Anguissa will surely be key.
Foxes bouncing back – thrice.
Leicester's frankly dismal defeat to Liverpool last weekend was enough for a fair few pundits and fans to start counting them out of the title race. Considering their woeful performance and a 3-0 scoreline that was admittedly kind (Liverpool could have won by five, if not more), you might not have blamed the Foxes for falling into a slump. A Europa league away game to Braga, who themselves are strong competition, would have been the typical place for it to continue. When the Portuguese side took the lead inside four minutes it looked like a package of bad form was on its way quicker than an amazon prime parcel.
But Leicester refused to let it be delivered (Rodgers refused to sign for it). Leicester cut back against Braga with a quick equaliser from Harvey Barnes. Braga, who were dominating the first half, found their way back in front with a well-worked goal but a change of the order in the second half saw Leicester rise back on top and find an equalising goal that would put them through to the knockout round.
Everything looked to be going right – until it was all going wrong again. Braga's frantic 90th-minute goal put them back on top and, by the look on the faces of the Foxes, sealed the game. But they forgot about Jamie Vardy. Four minutes later, within added time of added time, a lovely Leicester move was finished when Vardy poked home Marc Albrighton's cross to put Leicester back level, push them through to the round of 32, and shed malingering thoughts of bad form.
Leicester's draw against Braga certainly felt like a win for them: not just for the result, but the way they did it. Each time they went a goal down, they found a way to come back. Three times they equalised, and three times they showed that they would not be counted out. This is not just a performance, either – it is an attitude. Leicester showed on Thursday night that they would not be ignored, and while their performance against Liverpool was poor, expect them to put things right and come back into it when they play Fulham.
Team News
Leicester
Leicester's injury problems are starting to come to a close, with Timothy Castagne closing in on a return amongst others. Ricardo Pereira is not yet ready for first-team action but is expected to return on Thursday when Leicester travel to Ukraine. Wilfrid Ndidi Caglar Soyuncu also remain out – but are close to a return.
Fulham
Fulham's injury issues are lightening too and, although Kenny Tete and Terrence Kongolo will remain out for some time, passing superstar Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Aleksandar Mitrovic are expected to return to the starting XI.
Predicted Starting XIs
Leicester (3-4-3): Schmeichel; Fofana, Evans, Fuchs; Castagne, Tielemans, Mendy, Justin; Under, Vardy, Maddison
Fulham (4-2-3-1): Areola; Aina, Andersen, Adarabioyo, Robinson; Reed, Zambo Anguissa; Loftus-Cheek, Cairney, Lookman; Mitrovic
Score Prediction: Leicester 3-1 Fulham
Fulham may be persistent in their search for a win, but they will have to win. I expect the bounced-back Foxes to overrun Fulham with their quality.
https://90maat.com/leicester-city-vs-fulham-30-11-2020-match-preview-and-predicted-starting-xis/
Christian Fuchs explains why Fulham may pose Leicester more problems than leaugue table suggests
The Foxes defender is one of just six players remaining from Leicester's title-winning team
Christian Fuchs believes that the gap in league position between Leicester and Fulham will not be indicative of how difficult Monday night's clash will be.
The 34-year-old defender believes the Cottagers may force the Foxes to be patient.
Brendan Rodger's side sit in fourth position in the Premier League, 14 points ahead of 19th placed Fulham. Fuchs wouldn't buy into the hype however.
He told the Leicester City matchday magazine: "We're expecting a fight, a very big fight from them. The points are just as vital for them as they are for us, as I'm sure that they don't want to experience going back down again.
"They've had a difficult start to the season, so they'll definitely be coming here to make life hard for us. We could be in for a game where they sit deep and make it hard for us to break them down, whilst being patient for an opportunity at the other end; whether that be from a setpiece or a counter-attack. It will be a tough game for sure."
Fuchs made note in a season such as this, one rife for upsets, you can't take anything for granted.
He said: "Ultimately, we can't affect anything that our opponents do or have done. The only thing we can control is what we do, so our focus remains on that.
"I think, for fans, it is different. As a fan, you look at the table and see the distance between two teams in the table and feel it's a guaranteed win – but it's not.
"We've seen so many examples this season – and last season– where any team can beat any team, both at home and away. We know we're in for another hard 90 minutes and we know that Fulham will be fighting for every point given their current situation. It's going to be a tough one."
https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/christian-fuchs-explains-fulham-pose-19372391
FA CUP DRAWThe draw for the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup will take place on Monday evening, with Fulham ball number 17.
It takes place at around 7.10pm, ahead of the final Second Round fixture between Canvey Island and Boreham Wood.
Our Premier League clash against Leicester City will still be going on at this time, so details of our Third Round opponent will be published on Club channels following the match.
Fans can follow the draw on the Emirates FA Cup YouTube, Twitter or Facebook page.
(https://images-v2.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1400x1400/217acfe0-3302-11eb-8242-5ff39710a22e.png)
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/november/FA-Cup-Draw/
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EoFTXbQXIAEanqk?format=jpg&name=medium)
