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Exclusive: Fulham's game against Spurs in doubt after positive COVID-19 tests

Fulham's Premier League match with Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night is in doubt after a number of positive COVID-19 tests at the club, Peter Rutzler can reveal.

The Athletic understands that after a number of people at Fulham tested positive, the fixture at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium could be under threat.

The Premier League confirmed today that they had recorded the highest number of positive cases since the pandemic began — 18 in total — with at least three clubs reporting cases.

Has COVID-19 impacted Fulham before?
Yes. Fulham head coach Scott Parker missed the club's last match at home to Southampton after a member of his household tested positive.

He then went into self-isolation for 10 days and returned to training at Motspur Park on Monday.

What is the latest on COVID-19 and the Premier League?
On Tuesday, the Premier League made the decision for its clubs to return to twice-weekly COVID-19 testing because of the increased number of positive tests.

The latest round of testing between December 21-27 resulted in 18 positive COVID-19 tests among players and staff, with a total of 1,479 players people tested. The 18 people who have tested positive are all self-isolating in line with government guidelines.

The 18 positive tests is the highest number of positive COVID results reported by the Premier League publicly since weekly testing started.

Has this happened before?
Yes. Tottenham's match against Fulham would be the third Premier League fixture to be postponed because of a COVID-19 outbreak this season.

Two other matches have been postponed this season due to COVID-19 outbreaks at Newcastle United and Manchester City respectively.

Manchester City reported four positive COVID-19 tests among players and staff on December 25 and another three on December 29, forcing the postponement of their match against Everton at Goodison Park. The Athletic understands the three people who returned positive tests are first-team players.

The 2019-20 season was halted for over three months because of the pandemic. The league was suspended in March until 4 April, was then extended to mid-June. The season resumed with two matches on 17 June, with Liverpool eventually winning the title in July.



https://theathletic.com/news/fulham-tottenham-coronavirus-cases-latest/5AgGHiSdSfVj

Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham


Fulham's Premier League match at Tottenham on Wednesday is in doubt because of new coronavirus cases at the west London club.

The fixture is due to kick-off at 18:00 GMT at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

On Tuesday the latest round of Premier League coronavirus testing found 18 people had the virus - the highest recorded in the testing programme.

Sheffield United have confirmed they had "numerous positive tests" in the latest round of testing.

On Monday, Manchester City's Premier League match at Everton was postponed four hours before kick-off at Goodison Park because of an outbreak of coronavirus at the club.

Everton said they would request "full disclosure" of the information City provided to the Premier League that led to the postponement.

Newcastle United's match at Aston Villa, scheduled for 4 December, was postponed following a "significant increase" in cases at the Magpies' training ground.

Fulham boss Scott Parker did not take charge of his team's goalless draw with Southampton on Boxing Day after someone in his household tested positive for Covid-19. Parker was due to return to the dugout at Tottenham.

In the EFL, coronavirus outbreaks at clubs saw seven of Tuesday's 12 scheduled League One games postponed.

In League Two, Morecambe's games - at Bolton Wanderers and Bradford - have been postponed because of a coronavirus outbreak at the Mazuma Stadium.

In the Championship, Rotherham boss Paul Warne claimed fears of a points deduction stopped his "obliterated" Millers calling off Tuesday's derby with Barnsley.

Rotherham have not played since 16 December as Covid-19 cases caused games against Derby and Middlesbrough to be postponed.

After an isolation period, Warne said another player has now shown symptoms.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55420342

Coronavirus: 18 positives in latest Premier League Covid-19 testing

A total of 1,479 players and club staff members were tested between December 21-27; Tottenham vs Fulham on Wednesday in doubt after west Londoners record positive tests; West Brom boss Sam Allardyce has revealed his club had a positive coronavirus test this week and has called for a break

The Premier League has confirmed 18 positive coronavirus tests among players and staff in its latest round of testing - the highest figure of the season so far.

A total of 1,479 players and club staff members were tested between December 21-27; the 18 people who have tested positive are self-isolating.

Hours after the Premier League released the latest figures, it emerged that Fulham's game at Tottenham on Wednesday evening is in doubt after a number of coronavirus cases were recorded by the west London side.

Fulham are now in talks with the Premier League, whose board must approve any postponements.

Scott Parker - who missed Fulham's previous game due to a member of his household testing positive - said there were no issues with his squad's fitness on Tuesday ahead of their game on Wednesday.

However, the Fulham boss's press conference was held before the latest testing results were confirmed.

If the fixture at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is called off, it will become the third Premier League game to be cancelled because of coronavirus this season.

Manchester City's trip to Everton on Monday was postponed hours before kick-off due to multiple positive cases within the City camp, while Aston Villa vs Newcastle was called off earlier this month after the Magpies were hit by the virus.

Allardyce: Right thing is to have a circuit break
West Brom boss Sam Allardyce has revealed his club had a positive coronavirus test this week and has called for a break in Premier League action.

After the 5-0 home loss to Leeds, former England boss Allardyce said: "Everyone's safety is more important than anything else.

"When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break.

"I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I'm very concerned for myself and football in general. If that's what needs to be done we need to do it.

"We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try."

Sheffield United confirm 'number of positive tests'
Sheffield United confirmed they had recorded a number of positive coronavirus tests after their latest round of testing.

Due to medical confidentiality, the club will not be revealing the names of those who have been affected.

The individuals who have tested positive have now entered into a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and Government guidelines.

Blades boss Chris Wilder revealed ahead of their evening kick-off at Burnley that the club had seen "a couple" of players and "four or five backroom staff" test positive. Wilder's starting line-up was unaffected, with just one change from the previous match, Oliver Burke dropping to the bench, but he was only able to name seven of a possible nine substitutes.

Wilder said neither he nor the club were looking to have the game delayed.

"It's not an ideal situation but I don't think we're a club of one. It (the virus) is picking up and it's running high at football clubs," he said.

"We just notified the relevant authorities that we've had a situation at the football club. But I want to play football. That's how it is, we're not looking to get anything canned. We did the right thing as far as our responsibility to the Premier League and notified them regarding the players that are ill."

Man City, Arsenal affected
On Christmas Day, Manchester City announced that Gabriel Jesus and Kyle Walker had tested positive for coronavirus, along with two members of club staff.

After further positive results were received on Monday, leading to the postponement of their match at Everton, the club closed their first-team training ground which is undergoing a deep clean.

Arsenal's Brazilian centre-back Gabriel has also tested positive and is isolating Government protocols. He had already been isolating after being identified as a close contact with someone who had tested positive.

Premier League postponements - what league guidance says
The Premier League board took medical advice into consideration when making the decision to postpone City's game against Everton.

Decisions to rearrange games are only in "exceptional" circumstances and judged on "case-by-case basis", says the Premier League, which maintains its medical protocols are robust.

Guidance issued to clubs in the Premier League Handbook 2020/21 is that "permission will not be granted to postpone a League match where the applicant club has 14 or more players listed on its squad list available".

The final decision is always made by the Premier League Board.

Previous Premier League test results
    Round 1: 31 Aug-6 Sep - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive.
    Round 2: 7-13 Sep - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive.
    Round 3: 14-20 Sep - 1,574 tested, with three testing positive.
    Round 4: 21-27 Sep - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive.
    Round 5: 28 Sep-4 Oct - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive.
    Round 6: 5-11 Oct - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive.
    Round 7: 12-18 Oct - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive.
    Round 8: 19-25 Oct - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive.
    Round 9: 26 Oct-1 Nov - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive.
    Round 10: 2-8 Nov - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive.
    Round 11: 9-15 Nov - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive.
    Round 12: 16-22 Nov - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive.
    Round 13: 23-29 Nov - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive.
    Round 14: 30 Nov-6 Dec - 1,483 tested with 14 testing positive.
    Round 15: 7-13 Dec - 1,549 tested with six testing positive.
    Round 16: 14-20 Dec - 1,569 tested with seven testing positive.
    Round 17: 21-27 Dec - 1,479 tested with 18 testing positive.

EFL postponements
The EFL confirmed on Tuesday morning that the total number of games affected so far by Covid-19 related issues was 44 - one in the Carabao Cup and 43 in the Championship, League One and League Two.



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11661/12174410/coronavirus-18-positives-in-latest-premier-league-covid-19-testing

Mourinho provides fitness update on Bale, Vinicius and Moura ahead of Fulham game

Jose Mourinho has provided fitness updates for a trio of attackers ahead of Tottenham's London derby clash against Fulham tomorrow.

The Spurs head coach revealed that Gareth Bale was not suffering from a serious injury but could be out for a few weeks.

He also added that he doubted whether Lucas Moura or Carlos Vinicius would be fit enough to face Fulham on Wednesday.

All three of these players missed the recent trip to Molineux to face Wolves at the weekend, with Spurs only managing to secure a point from the encounter.

In terms of attackers, this leaves Mourinho with the likes of Harry Kane, Heung-min Son, Steven Bergwijn, Erik Lamela, and Jack Clarke to choose from.

Tottenham are in desperate need of a win against Scott Parker's side this week as they are currently without one in four Premier League games, picking up just two points in that time.

On the fitness of Bale, Moura, and Vinicius, Mourinho said (Football London): "No I don't expect him [Bale] to be fit and also I have my doubts that Lucas and Vinicius can be fit for Fulham."

On Bale, he added: "I wouldn't say it's serious but I'd say a few weeks."



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/mourinho-provides-fitness-update-on-bale-vinicius-and-moura-ahead-of-fulham-game/

Scott Parker WILL be back in the dugout for Fulham's clash at Tottenham on Wednesday following completion of 10-day self-isolation after household member had Covid

    Scott Parker will be back in the dugout for Fulham's clash with Tottenham
    A member of his household tested positive for Covid, which saw him self-isolate
    The 40-year-old missed the goalless draw with Southampton on Boxing Day
    Parker has returned two negative tests and completed a 10-day isolation period

Scott Parker is pleased to be able to return to the dugout for Fulham's match at Tottenham in the Premier League on Wednesday.

The 40-year-old missed the goalless draw with Southampton on Boxing Day after a member of his household tested positive for Covid-19.

He returned a negative test last week but continued to self-isolate in accordance with the Government guidelines and, after another negative test at the weekend, can return for the clash at his old club Spurs.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/12/29/13/37369812-0-image-a-1_1609248691076.jpg)
Scott Parker will be back in the dugout on Wednesday after completion of 10-day self-isolation

Parker said: 'I am back in. Obviously I had to self-isolate for 10 days so I've done that and I got a negative result again two days ago, so I'm back in with the team.

'I am pleased about that, it has been a difficult time but I'm pleased to be back and preparing for what is a big game on Wednesday against Spurs.'

Without their manager on the touchline, the Whites extended their unbeaten run to four games with a stalemate against the Saints.

It was far from a perfect situation, but measures had been put in place to cope with the scenario and Parker will return in time to face someone he worked under 15 years ago.

Jose Mourinho was his manager at Chelsea and actually sold the midfielder to Newcastle, but there is certainly no ill-feeling between the pair.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/12/29/13/37369982-9095741-image-a-9_1609249146866.jpg)
Matt Wells (pictured) took charge of the team on Boxing Day along with No 2 Stuart Gray

I spent a short time with Jose and he was a fantastic coach,' Parker added.

'I see Jose like I see every other manager I am up against or my team are up against.

'The most important thing is that us as a team can go to Spurs tomorrow and try to cause them problems and put a stamp on the game. Me trying to get back at Jose? No, not at all.'

Fulham have not lost since December 5 at Manchester City but are also yet to win during the month after a string of draws.

It means that despite encouraging recent results against Liverpool and Southampton, the Craven Cottage outfit remain in the bottom three following a poor start to life back in the top flight.

Parker said: 'There is no hiding, we want to try and turn some of these draws into wins but the way we are playing suggests we can definitely do that.

'Hopefully that is the next step. We took a massive leap from where we were and we have improved drastically.

'But like anything with me, I always want to get better and the team wants to get better, so can we now get some of these draws into wins?

'In this league and where we are, you have to jump quick. You don't have time. As quickly as you improve something else, you then need to move onto the next thing.'



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9095741/Scott-Parker-returns-dugout-Fulham-vs-Spurs-household-members-positive-test.html

Premier League records season-high number of positive covid tests

The Premier League has seen its highest number of positive coronavirus tests in the recent round of testing with Man City's game at Everton having to be postponed just hours before kick-off

The Premier League has returned its highest number of positive coronavirus tests of the season, with 18 new cases.

Between December 21 and 27, 1,479 players and club staff were tested and those 18 individuals who have the virus will now self-isolate for a period of 10 days.

A number of those cases are at Manchester City after an outbreak there saw their game with Everton called off at four hours' notice on Monday.

The previous highest number of cases this season was 16, during the week of November 9 to 15.

A Premier League statement read: "The Premier League can today confirm that between Monday 21 December and Sunday 27 December, 1,479 players and Club staff were tested for COVID-19. Of these, there were 18 new positive tests.

"Players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days.

"The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency. No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public after each round of testing."

City's trip to Goodison Park was the second Premier League game of the season to be called off due to Covid-19 after Newcastle's game with Aston Villa was also wiped out last month.

City will begin retesting their squad on Tuesday in the hope they have acted quickly enough to prevent a widespread outbreak of the disease.

They closed their training complex on Monday after reporting "a number of positive cases", three days after Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus tested positive and were forced to isolate.

The spike in cases, an increase of 11 from the previous week's testing, will cause concern about the prospect of more disruption across English football.

Eight games across the Sky Bet Championship, League One and League Two on Tuesday have been wiped out because of the virus, while Rotherham boss Paul Warne said his side are only playing their match with Barnsley to avoid a possible points deduction by the EFL.

Rochdale are one of the clubs in League One whose next two games have been postponed and their club doctor Wes Tensel suggests it is time for the Football League to be suspended.

He told BBC 5 Live: "The spread and the numbers are rising and we have Tier 4 places where people cannot travel but we have players coming in and taking things back to their family, it is probably not the wisest thing at the moment.

"As well as a team doctor I am a GP so I am seeing both sides, so it seems there is a bigger picture going on.

"Why should football go on when other industries can't and the disease is spreading?"



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/premier-league-records-season-high-23234800

Scott Parker: Fulham boss to return to dugout for Tottenham game after period of self-isolation

Scott Parker missed the club's stalemate with Southampton on Boxing Day, with Matt Wells and Stuart Gray in temporary charge; Fulham boss refuses to be drawn on rising coronavirus cases in Premier League and insists he feels safe under current protocols

Scott Parker will make his return to the Fulham dugout for Wednesday's Premier League match at Tottenham after a period of self-isolation.

The 40-year-old was absent for Fulham's goalless draw with Southampton on Boxing Day after a member of his household tested positive for Covid-19.

He returned a negative test last week but continued to self-isolate in accordance with government guidelines. However after another negative test at the weekend, he is free to take charge for the trip to Tottenham.

"I had to self-isolate for 10 days. I have done that and got a negative result again two days ago, so I'm back in with the team," Parker said.

"It's a difficult time obviously in this current climate, but I'm pleased to be back now and preparing for what is a big game on Wednesday against Spurs."

Parker believes the team - led by coaches Matt Wells and Stuart Gray against Southampton - coped well in his absence but that virtual communication is no substitute for working closely with the players.

The Fulham head coach did however refuse to be drawn on what could happen moving forward, after Premier League clubs recorded a record-high 18 positive coronavirus test results in the latest round of testing.

There are concerns ranging from safety to fixture congestion if postponements become more commonplace, with Monday's match between Everton and Manchester City the second league fixture to be called off this season.

"We had prepared and we had planned for the scenario so we had everything in place to fall on," Parker said about his period in self-isolation.

"In this current climate, we are living in unpredictable times. We knew what measures we needed to take and they worked very well.

"I think we have all come to realise, and learn, that looking too far ahead or working out whether something is going to happen or not [is difficult]. Normally things change on a daily or weekly basis.

"The Premier League and us as a football club have things in place. We have great protocols - it is a very safe environment. I don't feel in any way on edge or nervous."

Parker: I'm looking forward to facing Jose
Scott Parker's return to the dugout will see him test his managerial mettle against Jose Mourinho, who was his boss at Chelsea in 2004-05 and remains a man, Parker feels, with an undeniable aura.

The Fulham boss faces the 57-year-old as a manager for the first time and while respect remains high between the duo, the Craven Cottage chief will not be overawed.

He said: "It only felt like yesterday when I was a player under Jose and now I'll stand in the technical area with him, albeit a few years under him in terms of being in this job, so his experience is far superior.

"It is an occasion I am relishing and looking forward to and I can't wait to meet up with him again and get my team to pit their wits against a very good opposition."

And he added: "He had charisma about him which we all see now. He came into Chelsea and brought new ideas and certainly they were ideas that probably a lot of us in that squad had never seen.

"His training methods, his organisation and he himself brings a big personality and charisma, so that is exactly how I see him."



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/12174810/scott-parker-fulham-boss-to-return-to-dugout-for-tottenham-game-after-period-of-self-isolation

Fit-again Tete in Fulham squad for Tottenham game

Kenny Tete has been added to the Fulham squad for the first time in three months as his side prepares to face Tottenham.

The right-back limped out of the 3-0 home defeat by Aston Villa at the end of September and needed specialist treatment on a torn calf.

However, the player who cost the Whites around £2m from Olympique Lyonnais in the transfer window has recovered, and after his wife also gave birth, Tete is back in the frame to take on Spurs.

Boss Scott Parker said: "Kenny will be in the squad for this game.

"He's trained very well. He's short of match minutes, but he's done an awful lot of work.

"His numbers every week (have been good)...we've put him under real stress on match-like and physical work, and he's come through with flying colours."

Chances are Ola Aina will hang on to a spot on the right of defence, with the head coach pronouncing a clean bill of health for everyone else – albeit a weary squad.

Parker added: "There's wear and tear of course, and some tired bodies, but no real issues. It's a balancing act."

Parker paid tribute to a Fulham side unbeaten in four, and work done in keeping opposition to just two goals in that time – both penalties – and one of those a debatable award at Newcastle.

He said: "Earlier in the season we had to score two or three to win a game – and Fulham were never going to do that.

"Now over the last six or seven games we're a real threat, and we'll go to Tottenham with that in mind."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fit-again-tete-in-fulham-squad-for-tottenham-game

Ola Aina enjoying centre-back role

Nigerian defender Ola Aina says he is "really enjoying" playing as a centre-back for Premier League club Fulham.

The versatile 24-year-old, who is on loan at Craven Cottage from Italian club Torino, has played on the right-side of a back three in recent matches, alongside Joachim Andersen and Tosin Adarabioyo.

"Normally I would be playing a bit wider, a bit further up the pitch, but I've always said that I'll put a shift in wherever I'm placed," Aina told his club's official website.

"I'm in a back three at the minute and I'm really enjoying it, I feel really comfortable there."

Fulham after a poor start to the season, have looked far more competitive in recent weeks and their shift in defence has been a major factor.

A draw with Southampton this past weekend means the Cottagers are four unbeaten and have not conceded a goal from open play in their last 445 minutes of football.

"We all know how it was at the beginning of the season, so from that point to now, it just shows the hard work that we're putting in, as well as the togetherness that we have," Aina explained.

"But I don't think it's only the backline you know, it goes throughout the team, it starts from the top.

"If it didn't start at the top, then the opposition would get more chances on our goal, so the whole team has done well to get us these clean sheets."

Fulham will hope to continue their good form when they face Tottenham Hotspur away from home in a London derby on Wednesday evening.



https://africanfootball.com//news/783536/Ola-Aina-enjoying-centre-back-role

Pre-Spurs Press Conference

Scott Parker praised the protocols implemented by the Club in his absence, but was delighted to return to Motspur Park this week.

After a member of his family tested positive for Covid-19, Fulham's Head Coach had to lead the team from home against Southampton, but he will be back in the dugout for Wednesday's trip to Tottenham Hotspur.

"I'm back in," he confirmed in his pre-match press conference. "I had to self-isolate for 10 days so I did that, got a negative result again two days ago, so I'm back in with the team and I'm pleased about that.

"Just being around the place, bringing personality, seeing people in the flesh, is always much better.

"You have a much better understanding and someone in my position sees things much clearer, but we'd prepared and planned for the scenario that happened, so we had everything in place to fall on.

"This current climate is unpredictable, so we knew what measures we needed to take and they worked very, very well, with Zoom and being in constant dialogue with the team.

"It worked very well, the best it could. Of course it's not ideal, but we're not living in an ideal world."

We head to North London preparing to face a Spurs side that has taken just two points from a possible 12 recently.

But when asked if now was a good time to face Jose Mourinho's men, Parker replied: "It's not just Tottenham, any team who are on a little bit of a dip or whose results have not gone too well, it can work both ways.

"It can be that you're playing against a bit of a wounded animal in a sense of they need a result and you need to be very alert and realise that, and at the same time can you add that little bit of pressure, can we make it uncomfortable at times in the game.

"So I think it works both ways really, I think we need to have an eye on both sides of it. We understand we're playing against an exceptionally good team.

"I was there for a short time as an Under-18s coach, and everything about the football club is top class in terms of training facilities, the squad they've got, and we need to be fully aware of that, but also understanding that it might be an opportunity for us to get something."

Parker played 63 times for Tottenham across two seasons prior to joining Fulham, so it's a fixture he's relishing.

"I am looking forward to going back there," he said. "I spent a couple of years at Spurs as a player which I thoroughly enjoyed, I had a brilliant rapport with the fans.

"Then I obviously went back there developing the younger players, so I'm looking forward to going back as a Manager of a team now.

"I'm looking forward to seeing some familiar faces who I spent a lot of time with."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/december/Pre-Spurs-Press-Conference/

Fulham's clash with Tottenham 'in doubt following number of positive Covid tests at Craven Cottage'... just days after Manchester City's clash with Everton was postponed due to outbreak within Pep Guardiola's squad

    Fulham's visit to Tottenham on Wednesday is now in doubt, reports have claimed
    There has reportedly been a number of positive Covid cases at Fulham this week
    It comes just a few days after Manchester City's clash with Everton was called off
    Football has been plunged into chaos with nine games postponed on Tuesday
    There have been calls to suspend the season amid soaring cases of Covid

Fulham's visit to Tottenham on Wednesday could be postponed following a number of positive Covid-19 tests at the Cottagers, according to reports.

According to The Athletic, a number of people associated with Fulham have tested positive for the virus, which has placed major doubt on whether the Premier League encounter, which is due to kick-off at 6pm on Wednesday evening, will go ahead.

Fulham boss Scott Parker will return to the dugout for the game should it get given the green light, following the completion a 10-day self-isolation 

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/12/29/17/37378134-9096387-image-m-49_1609264547299.jpg)
Fulham's trip to face Spurs is in doubt after a number of positive Covid tests at the club

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A number of people at the club have reportedly tested positive for coronavirus

The 40-year-old returned a negative test last week but continued to self-isolate in accordance with the Government guidelines before returning another negative test at the weekend.

On his return, Parker revealed he was happy to return but could now be made to wait should the game be postponed.

Parker said: 'I am back in. Obviously I had to self-isolate for 10 days so I've done that and I got a negative result again two days ago, so I'm back in with the team.

'I am pleased about that, it has been a difficult time but I'm pleased to be back and preparing for what is a big game on Wednesday against Spurs.'

The news comes hours after the Premier League confirmed that there are 18 new positive Covid-19 tests among players and staff, the highest weekly total since Project Restart.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/12/29/17/37369812-9096387-Scott_Parker_will_be_back_in_the_dugout_on_Wednesday_after_compl-a-43_1609263243564.jpg)
Should the game go ahead, Scott Parker will return to the Fulham dugout against Spurs

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Tottenham are set to host the Cottagers in their final Premier League game of 2020 this week

The latest round of testing saw 1,479 players and staff tested, with 18 positive - a sharp increase on last week's total. On Monday, Manchester City's trip to Everton at Goodison Park was postponed due to an outbreak in City's squad over the Christmas period. 

In the top four divisions, nine matches on Tuesday have been postponed due to outbreaks of the virus. Morecambe, who are due to play Chelsea in the third round of the FA Cup, Doncaster Rovers and Rochdale have all seen multiple matches postponed due to the spread of the virus. 

However, while Sheffield United confirmed they registered a number of positive tests on Tuesday, their game against Burnley at Turf Moor went ahead as planned.

Blades manager Chris Wilder was only able to name seven subs as a result of injuries and positive tests.

It is unclear as to the number of positive cases at Bramall Lane and the club said they would not be revealing the identity of those who tested positive due to confidentiality reasons.   

A club statement read: 'Sheffield United can confirm the club recorded a number of positive coronavirus tests after the latest round of testing.

'Due to medical confidentiality the club will not be revealing the names of those who have been affected.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/12/29/15/37373398-0-image-a-21_1609255930868.jpg)
Sheffield United's game against Burnley went ahead after multiple positive Covid tests

'The individuals who have tested positive have now entered into a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and Government guidelines.

'Earlier today, the Premier League confirmed 18 positive coronavirus tests - the highest figure of the season so far.

'Everyone at Sheffield United would like to extend our best wishes to our colleagues and wish them a speedy recovery.'

Premier League rules state that matches should go ahead if a club has 14 available players, including a goalkeeper, although decisions are taken on a case-by-case basis and dependant on circumstances — particularly in relation to the pandemic.   

Sheffield United's statement arrived soon after Southampton confirmed their manager Ralph Hasenhuttl would not be in the dugout for their meeting with West Ham.

The Saints host the Hammers at St Mary's on Tuesday but Hasenhuttl will be unable to take charge at the ground after a member of his household tested positive for Covid-19.

The Saints boss is set to manage the game from home via a video and audio link.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/12/29/18/37372024-9096387-Ralph_Hasenhuttl_will_not_be_present_at_St_Mary_s_when_his_side_-a-2_1609264914653.jpg)
Ralph Hasenhuttl will not be present at St Mary's when his side take on West Ham on Tuesday

The outbreak at Ipswich last week prompted club physio Matt Byard to urge authorities to consider a 'circuit breaker' postponement to halt the spread.

Manager Paul Lambert tested positive for Covid-19 along with five players. General manager Lee O'Neill also tested positive.

Byard said: 'I know the EFL are looking at bringing in extra measures, with maybe more testing for example. I have always supported routine testing to secure a return to playing programme.

'Personally, with so many clubs affected by this presently and this new strain development, football may benefit from a 'circuit breaker' before a return to playing securely.'

Despite rising numbers of cases, Everton were furious at the decision to call off their game with City just hours before they were due to kick-off. Everton wanted to play and had started pre-match preparations at the Hilton Hotel in Liverpool, their usual base.

Everton will now ask the Premier League for full disclosure on how they arrived at the decision to get transparency on the reasons behind it.

Premier League rules state that matches should go ahead if a club has 14 available players, including a goalkeeper, although decisions are taken on a case-by-case basis and dependant on circumstances — particularly in relation to the pandemic.

The precautionary measure is understood to have taken into consideration that some of those players who tested negative on Monday may return different results on Wednesday.

City could not test twice, given the tight turnaround following Boxing Day's fixture, and sources maintained that all involved at Goodison Park would have been exposed to unnecessary risk.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9096387/Fulhams-clash-Tottenham-doubt-following-number-positive-Covid-tests-club.html

Fulham covid outbreak puts Tottenham game in doubt

Fulham's trip to Tottenham tomorrow night could be postponed after the club recorded a number of positive tests for coronavirus, according to the Athletic.

The Premier League reported some eighteen positive tests for coronavirus this afternoon – the highest amount of positives in their testing regime since the pandemic began – and several Fulham staff have apparently tested positive for the virus. Fulham manager Scott Parker only returned to regular duties yesterday having completed a ten day period of self-isolation after a member of his household had tested positive for coronavirus.

If tomorrow night's fixture at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is postponed, it would be the third game this season to be disrupted by the pandemic. Newcastle saw their match at Aston Villa earlier in December postponed as they battled to contain an outbreak at their training facility that Steve Bruce's side are still dealing with now, while Manchester City's trip to Everton yesterday was called off hours before kick off after a second outbreak within the City squad.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/12/fulham-covid-outbreak-puts-tottenham-game-in-doubt/

Premier League clubs discuss two-week 'cooling off' break amid surge in Covid-19 cases

Top-flight chairmen have held discussions over a fortnight-long hiatus in January after Everton's clash with Manchester City was postponed and 18 new cases were recorded across the division

Premier League clubs have reportedly held talks over a two-week 'cooling off' break in January amid mounting fears over surging coronavirus cases.

Numerous positive Covid-19 cases at Manchester City led to the postponement of their clash with Everton on Monday.

This prompted informal discussions between top-flight chairmen and there is shared concern that more matches will be called off

Sheffield United also registered a number of fresh cases but confirmed Tuesday evening's match with Burnley will go ahead.

Elsewhere, Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl will not be on the sideline for the visit of West Ham after a member of his household bubble returned a positive test.

This comes after Aston Villa versus Newcastle was postponed at the start of December following an outbreak at the latter.

The Daily Telegraph claims some chairmen are resigned to a mid-season break being necessary, while the government review of coronavirus restrictions on Wednesday will shape discussions going forward.

A key cause for concern for Premier League sides are the upcoming FA Cup third-round fixtures, which are scheduled to take place in early January.

The lower leagues have already seen multiple postponed matches, while all 64 clubs involved will have their players tested before the cup ties.

Elsewhere, the latest round of Premier League testing found 18 people with the virus - the highest figure in a single round of testing since it began in August.

A club doctor has also advised against matches continuing given the current 'R' rate and nine EFL matches were recently called off.

In the meantime, Manchester City are awaiting the results of a fresh round of testing to find out whether they can face Chelsea on Sunday and Manchester United in the Carabao Cup next Wednesday.

Organisers are facing an uphill battle to reschedule fixtures and the backlog would worsen if there was a two-week break in January.

The upcoming Euros are also due to start on 11 June, meaning scope to extend club competitions into the summer is very limited.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/premier-league-clubs-discuss-two-23236051

Scott Parker tests negative for Covid-19 but Fulham's game could be in doubt

Fulham have recorded a number of positive tests in the club's latest round of Covid-19 testing, the PA news agency understands.

The Whites were set to visit Tottenham on Wednesday and while preparations for that fixture continue, it will be dependent on the results of the players and staff at Craven Cottage who are yet to receive their results.

In this week's round of testing before the midweek fixtures, the PA news agency understands Fulham recorded a number of positive tests to cast doubt over their London derby with Spurs.

Manager Scott Parker revealed in his press conference on Tuesday he had tested negative on Sunday to ensure he was able to return to the training ground at the start of this week after a period of self-isolation.

The 40-year-old missed the goalless draw with Southampton on Boxing Day after a member of his household tested positive for coronavirus.

Yet with Fulham understood to have a number of tests returning positives results on Tuesday afternoon, the match with Tottenham could now join Manchester City and Everton's fixture, which had been due to take place on Monday, in being postponed.



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/scott-parker-tests-negative-for-covid-19-but-fulhams-game-could-be-in-doubt-1609269352000

Fulham lining up ideal swoop for potential diamond in the rough

Fulham have been in decent form in recent weeks.

The Cottagers endured a difficult start to the campaign and have spent the majority of the season in the relegation zone.

But they have lost just once in their last six games and have beaten Leicester City and drawn with Liverpool, while going down 2-0 to Manchester City.

Scott Parker's men have drawn all of their last four games and are now just two points off the safety of 17th place.

They will play Parker's old side, Tottenham Hotspur, on Wednesday, with the opportunity to potentially move out of the drop zone.

And it seems they are already eyeing potential recruits ahead of the January transfer window.

The Daily Telegraph reports that they are currently scouting Grimsby Town centre-back Mattie Pollock ahead of a potential swoop.

Fulham have scouted the 19-year-old, as have fellow strugglers West Bromwich Albion, who has already made 49 appearances for the club in League Two.

Grimsby are struggling and are currently 22nd in the table; they have 19 points from 20 games and are five points ahead of rock-bottom Stevenage and three ahead of 23rd Southend United. Stevenage have two games in hand on them, while Southend have one.

Pollock can play at centre-back and in central midfield and is perhaps their best young hope; he made his debut in 2018, when he was just 17.

Grimsby have the option to extend his contract by another year and they are likely to trigger that as they look to extract the biggest possible fee from any potential buyer.

GIVEMESPORT'S Harry Sherlock says...
This feels like a very low-risk signing for Fulham.

They are not the kind of team that can buy ready-made stars, they instead need to pick up players who can be sold on for bigger fees.

Pollock is only 19 and at Grimsby, he has been given the chance to establish himself in the rough-and-tumble of League Two.

He has grabbed that chance with both hands and it is little surprise that Premier League teams are already checking in.

If Fulham do bring him in, they will have the chance to further polish a potential rough diamond and potentially bank a significant fee as a reward.




https://www.givemesport.com/1632832-fulham-lining-up-ideal-swoop-for-potential-diamond-in-the-rough

Chris Hughton makes Anthony Knockaert admission ahead of key Nottingham Forest call

Chris Hughton admits it is "important" to have players of Anthony Knockaert's quality at the club if they are to start climbing the Championship table.

Knockaert arrived on loan from Fulham back in October, becoming Hughton's first and only signing since replacing Sabri Lamouchi at the helm.

The winger's loan deal at the City Ground is set to expire next month, however it remains to be seen whether Forest extend the deal, or activate their option to sign the player permanently.

Knockaert was reintroduced to the starting line-up on Tuesday night as Forest picked up a point on the road against Stoke City at the bet365 Stadium.

It was his cross that led to James Chester converting the ball into his own net, as Forest stretched their unbeaten run to four games in the league.

Hughton spoke to FLW's George Harbey in his post-match press conference, and was asked about how important it is to have players of Knockaert's quality on the books for the whole season, as Forest look to start climbing the Championship table.

Hughton said: "It's important to keep our players fit, but also to have players of quality.

"This is a tough division, and probably because of how it is this season without supporters, it's as tough a Championship season as there's been. There are no easy games.

We need a squad of as much quality as possible, and particularly in the areas where we know we've got to improve."

Forest sit 21st in the Championship after their draw in Staffordshire, three points clear of the relegation zone.

The Verdict

Knockaert has been a standout performer at times for Forest since arriving on loan.

There is a feeling that there's still more to come from the winger, who has been guilty of being quite inconsistent at times.

But there can be no denying that he is a hugely talented player who has undeniable quality, and his deliveries into the area against Stoke caused problems.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/chris-hughton-makes-anthony-knockaert-admission-ahead-of-key-january-call/

Spurs seek to maintain strong record against Fulham

Team news

Gareth Bale (calf) is likely to be sidelined "for a few weeks" says Jose Mourinho, who also has Giovani Lo Celso (thigh) ruled out for Tottenham Hotspur.

Lucas and Carlos Vinicius are also rated doubtful for the visit of Fulham.

Did you know?

Spurs have won 10 of their last 11 Premier League matches against Fulham, with their only defeat in that spell coming at White Hart Lane in March 2013.

Spurs are unbeaten in their last seven PL London derbies (W3 D4), since losing 2-1 at Chelsea in February.

Fulham have drawn each of their last four PL matches, as many as they had recorded in their previous 43 top-flight contests.

The Cottagers haven't lost their final league match in any of the last five calendar years (W4 D1).

Match officials

Referee: Peter Bankes. Assistants: Dan Cook, James Mainwaring. Fourth official: Anthony Taylor. VAR: David Coote. Assistant VAR: Stephen Child.



https://www.premierleague.com/news/1951553

Jean Michael Seri still a top earner despite Premier League exclusion: Fulham 2020/21 salary guide - in pictures

It's been a challenging return to the Premier League for Fulham since the club's immediate promotion from the Championship.

After one season in the second-tier, Scott Parker guided Fulham back to the top flight but the young manager is realising just how tough the top flight is.

However, Fulham appear to have learned from their last, ill-fated Premier League campaign when the club spent around £100 million ($134m) on new players and big wages only to suffer relegation.

This time around, the Cottagers have been much more modest with their recruitment expenditure, spending around €37m ($44m), with €7.7m on loan fees. It is indicative of the reckless spending of 2018/19 that Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Jean Michael Seri - both signed two years ago - are still Fulham's two highest earners, although Anguissa has established himself as a key player. Seri, meanwhile, hasn't played a minute of Premier League football this season and has not been registered in the 25-man squad.

As Fulham continue their fight to stay in the Premier League, the photo gallery above is a salary guide for the entire first team squad. The figures are provided by Spotrac, an online sports team and player contract website.

Some players, including goalkeeper Alphonse Areola and winger Ademola Lookman, are excluded on the basis that Fulham are not covering their entire wages during their loan spells.

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137294:1609308930/SOCCER_West_Ham_204565.jpg?$p=00f53a1&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, £67,000 ($89,500) per week. PA

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137295:1609308933/1126982913.jpg?$p=2b35ee9&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Jean Michael Seri, £65,000 per week. Getty images

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137296:1609308937/image/2020-11-15T175810Z_1546737103_UP1EGBF1DWY5N_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-UEFANATIONS-NLD-BIH-REPORT.JPG?$p=25290cf&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Kenny Tete, £65,000 per week. Reuters

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137297:1609308940/image/ed23c2e0105341e188b8c43f70aa99e2-ed23c2e0105341e188b8c43f70aa99e2-7e8894def73e423c83731c9324cebfe0-480e7.jpg?$p=5863239&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Tosin Adarabioyo, £60,000 per week. AP

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137298:1609308943/1287030501.jpg?$p=345ff19&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Ivan Cavaleiro, £60,000 per week. Getty Images

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Ruben Loftus-Cheek (on loan from Chelsea), £60,000 per week. PA

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137300:1609308950/08835784.jpg?$p=05bb499&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Aleksandar Mitrovic, £60,000 per week. EPA

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137301:1609308958/image/2020-11-22T135158Z_1627216718_UP1EGBM12IM92_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-ENGLAND-FUL-EVE-REPORT.JPG?$p=044e1b6&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Antonee Robinson, £60,000 per week. Reuters

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137302:1609308962/image/57ff886220cc49de9fbeabd3d8e0bd89-57ff886220cc49de9fbeabd3d8e0bd89-52129a483c1343ac860d08df096b06c3-52a22.jpg?$p=83642de&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Michael Hector, £50,000 per week. AP

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137303:1609308965/1015047968.jpg?$p=4d0cb23&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Fabricio Agosto Ramirez, £45,000 per week. Getty Images

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.228866:1609308972/image/jpeg.jpg?$p=79ddad7&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Joshua Onomah, £45,000 per week. AFP

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1059440:1609308979/image/2020-08-04T213601Z_964288669_RC297I9ZS8K3_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-ENGLAND-BRE-FUL-REPORT.JPG?$p=a9a83ca&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Bobby Reid, £45,000 per week. Reuters

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137304:1609308982/SOCCER_West_Ham_222836.jpg?$p=3697652&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Tom Cairney, £40,000 per week. PA

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1115796:1609308985/image/2020-11-22T113811Z_173075100_UP1EGBM0WBN3R_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-ENGLAND-FUL-EVE-REPORT.JPG?$p=2a901e1&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Mario Lemina (on loan from Southampton), £40,000 per week. Reuters

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137305:1609308989/1284436985.jpg?$p=ccb96ab&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Joe Bryan, £30,000 per week. Getty Images

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Tim Ream, £27,000 per week. Reuters

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Maxime Le Marchand, £25,000 per week. Reuters

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137307:1609308998/image/2020-11-18T214035Z_403568129_UP1EGBI1O7NBW_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-UEFANATIONS-CZE-SVK-REPORT.JPG?$p=7df5222&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Marek Rodak, £25,000 per week. Reuters

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137308:1609309001/962732176.jpg?$p=6c36211&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Kevin McDonald, £22,000 per week. Getty Images

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137309:1609309005/GettyImages-1276059539.jpg?$p=46e46ac&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Neeskens Kebano, £13,462 per week. Getty Images

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137310:1609309010/000_8PT94L.jpg?$p=058da62&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Aboubakar Kamara, £12,500 per week. AFP

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137311:1609309014/image/0fbb3be027a445e18f28e1996a345459-0fbb3be027a445e18f28e1996a345459-4a6b007a15b542f2b089ecb9b8a7dba7-b81e8.jpg?$p=a8f3d43&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Harrison Reed, £12,000 per week. AP

(https://www.thenationalnews.com/image/policy:1.1137312:1609309017/1033593558.jpg?$p=ae7ecca&w=2048&$w=dbf56c5)
Stefan Johansen, £10,000 per week. Getty Images

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Denis Odoi, £8,900 per week. Reuters



https://www.thenationalnews.com/sport/football/jean-michael-seri-still-a-top-earner-despite-premier-league-exclusion-fulham-2020-21-salary-guide-in-pictures-1.1137314#24

Tottenham v Fulham 'in doubt' as coronavirus cases rise in the Premier League

Manchester City, Everton, Sheffield United and Southampton have all been affected by Covid-19 this week

Fulham were last night in talks with the Premier League over whether their Premier League fixture with Tottenham can go ahead following a Covid-19 outbreak at the west London club.

Spurs are due to host Fulham on Wednesday evening at 6pm but a report in The Athletic detailed how "a number of people" at the club have tested positive putting the fixture in doubt.

Fulham manager Scott Parker missed Fulham's Boxing Day clash with Southampton after he was forced to self-isolate following a member of his household testing positive but the 40-year-old insists he returned a negative result over the weekend in order to return to training on Monday.

The Premier League, Fulham and Tottenham are yet to respond to the claims.

On Monday, Manchester City's match against Everton was postponed after five players tested positive while Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl is isolating after a positive test in his household.

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder also revealed that two players and "four or five staff" had tested positive in their camp but their fixture with Burnley still went ahead on Tuesday night.

The Premier League's latest round of testing, across the period December 21-27 has recorded 18 positive tests – the highest figure since Project Restart in June, and there are considerations to possibly impose a short two-week "circuit breaker" in top-flight and EFL fixtures to help ease the spread of the virus.

A measure that has the backing on West Brom manager Sam Allardyce who was asked for his thoughts on Tuesday night in the wake of their 5-0 defeat to Leeds.

"Everyone's safety is more important than anything else," he said.

"When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break.

"I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I'm very concerned for myself and football in general. If that's what needs to be done we need to do it.

"We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try."



https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/tottenham-v-fulham-in-doubt-19537164

'Have my doubts': Mourinho suggests two Spurs players won't be picked against Fulham

Tottenham Hotspur boss Jose Mourinho has told Football London that he has doubts over Carlos Vinicius and Lucas Moura playing against Fulham.

Vinicius and Moura have both been struggling with injury issues at Tottenham recently, and it seems that Spurs's options in attack could now be depleted for his evening's game.

With Gareth Bale sidelined, Lucas and Vinicius may have been hoping for a starting chance tonight.

But Mourinho has quickly put the Brazilian duo's chances of featuring into serious doubt.

"No I don't expect him to be fit and also I have my doubts that Lucas and Vinicius can be fit for Fulham," Mourinho said.

Tottenham's injury problems up-front mean that Steven Bergwijn looks the most obvious starter, if Spurs do opt to line-up with a three pronged attack.

Vinicius and Lucas have both played bit-part roles this term, but Mourinho will surely be keen to get the pair back sooner rather than later.

Vinicius could still have an important role to play this season, but his chances of playing almost entirely depend on Harry Kane's fitness.

Lucas, meanwhile, offers valuable cover across a range of roles in Tottenham's attack and his speed makes him an asset off the bench.

If Spurs can beat Fulham this evening they could move back up into third place in the Premier League table.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/12/30/have-my-doubts-mourinho-suggests-two-spurs-players-wont-be-picked-against-fulham/

Fulham the On-Form Team in Visit to Tottenham Hotspur
On Wednesday, Spurs return to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to take on Fulham Cottagers in Premier League action, the lilywhites better be ready as Fulham is.

As Tottenham Hotspur host Fulham in matchday 16 action, looking at the two teams in the table and total points, one might think this should be a cakewalk for Tottenham. On 26 points, Tottenham currently have more than twice as many as Fulham at just 11. However, in the last six matches – not an insignificant sample size – the Cottagers have earned more points than Spurs.

Hot and Cold Teams
Had this match been in the first nine weeks of the season, yes it likely would have been a cake walk for Tottenham Hotspur. However, in the last six matches over this busy stretch to end 2020, Fulham have been the better team. As good as Tottenham started, Fulham was equally bad acclimating as a newly promoted club.

Tottenham started the season with 20 points from the first nine matches, stringing together six wins and two draws against only the opening day defeat Everton. Whereas Fulham had a rough go early on, losing seven of their first nine matches with only one win and one draw for four total points. At the end of matchday nine Tottenham were in first place with those 20 points, whereas Fulham were 18th with 4 points.

Since that time, while Fulham's position in the table has not changed, their form and ability to pick up points have. Alternatively, Spurs have fallen flat over the last six matches, droppings six places in the table.

Reversal of Fortune
Fulham's current season pace would lead to about 28 points, certainly relegation material. However, with seven points from their last six matches, a pace of 44 points across a season, the Cottagers have figured something out. Sure, Fulham need wins and three points, but they need points period and are working hard to take them one at a time.

Please note, that while 44 points does not sound like a great season, there are probably 14 teams in the league that would take that if offered on day one no questions asked. Safety is a big deal in the Premier League.

On the flip side, Tottenham have only taken six points from the last six matches. Taken over the course of a season, that is only 38 points, which is potentially relegation material. Of course, Tottenham are at little to no threat of relegation at this point, but the current form of the two sides is starkly different as are the moods in the dugouts from it.

Both teams have faced similar schedules over this stretch, as Fulham beat Leicester City and drew with Liverpool – two teams that beat Spurs. However, Tottenham also beat Manchester City and beat Southampton, who beat and drew with Fulham. The point is Fulham are playing well and are doing it against the top competition. Maybe teams are overlooking them, but on current form, Tottenham should be overlooking no one.

So, whatever your expectation is coming into the matchup on Wednesday, just do not think it will be an easy game, because the form says otherwise.



https://hotspurhq.com/2020/12/30/fulham-onform-team-visit-tottenham/

Tottenham vs Fulham live stream: How to watch Premier League fixture online and on TV tonight

Everything you need to know ahead of kick-off

Tottenham Hotspur host Fulham on Wednesday night with both teams keen to move up the table for very different reasons.

Spurs are very much involved in the race for a top-four finish, but the congested league table around that zone leaves them outside even the Europa League places right now following a run of no wins in four games, the latest of which was a draw at Wolves. That came on the back of two straight defeats, leaving Spurs six points off top spot which they occupied themselves only a few games ago.

Jose Mourinho's side are well out-of-form, though, with one win in the last six contributing to their sudden slide down the table.

Fulham are still in the bottom three, meanwhile, though they have been picking up points of late with four straight draws, the latest of which was a hard-earned 0-0 with Southampton on Boxing Day. Despite that marginal upturn in fortunes, they are two points from safety with just two wins to their name all season and still average fewer than one goal per game this season - though two clean sheets in the last three games provide reason for optimism.

Here's everything you need to know ahead of the game.
We may earn commission from some of the links in this article, but we never allow this to influence our content.

When is the match?

The game kicks off at 6pm on Wednesday, 30 December.

Where can I watch it?

The match will be shown live on Amazon Prime Video, which is viewable on Amazon's TV and other device apps as well as the desktop website. If you're not an Amazon Prime Video subscriber start a free 30-day trial here.

What is the team news?

Gareth Bale is a doubt and Giovani Lo Celso is injured. The only other absentee should be Japhet Tanganga for Spurs.

Fulham are almost at full strength, with Mario Lemina back but Terence Kongolo and Kenny Tete both doubts.

Predicted line-ups

TOT - Lloris; Aurier, Alderweireld, Dier, Reguilon; Sissoko, Hojbjerg, Ndombele; Lamela, Son; Kane.

FUL - Areola; Aina, Andersen, Adarabioyo; Cordova-Reid, Lemina, Reed, Zambo Anguissa, Robinson; Lookman, Mitrovic.

Odds

Spurs - 3/5

Draw - 33/10

Fulham - 29/5

Prediction

Despite the recent improvement from Fulham, Spurs should pose too many problems for Scott Parker's team as long as Jose Mourinho doesn't ask them to withdraw too deep, too early. Spurs 2-0 Fulham




https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/tottenham/fulham-watch-live-stream-online-tonight-b1779733.html

Fulham January 2021 Transfer Window Predictions

The last time Fulham were promoted to the Premier League, they were relegated immediately after.

The Londoners will be desperate to avoid a similar fate this season.

Fulham are currently 18th in the Premier League table but just 11 points from 15 matches and they will need to strengthen their squad in January in order to beat the drop.

Key areas that need strengthening

Fulham have a reasonably good striker in Aleksandr Mitrovic but they need to add more depth to the position.

The Serbian needs more support in attack and the London club must look to invest in a quality goal scorer.

Fulham have drawn their last four League games scoring just twice in that period. A quality goal scorer in the side could have earned them more points.

Potential departures

The likes of Le Marchand, Kebano, Kamara and Onomah have all failed to make their mark in the Premier League so far and it will be interesting to see if the London club decide to cash in on them and free up the funds for incomings next month.

They spent a considerable amount of money during the summer transfer window and Fulham might need to offload some of their fringe players before they bring someone in.



https://sportslens.com/fulham-transfer-news-january-2021/324003/

Knockaert taking the positives

Anthony Knockaert felt Nottingham Forest should have taken all three points from the draw against Stoke City last night.

Knockaert played a key role in The Reds getting back into the game, with his cross being turned into his own net by James Chester, and the Frenchman is confident that Forest can continue to pick up more points with similarly positive performances.

Speaking after the game, he said: "They are a good side, they have big guys and good quality on the ball. The way they play here it is never easy to get something but I think in general we deserved the three points.

"It was a poor goal to concede but it is what it is, we needed to get back into the game and we did that. I thought that at the end, they were really lucky not to concede another one and lose the game.

"We need to focus on the next game and take the positives from today to the next game as it was one of the best performances since the beginning of the season.

"The last 20 minutes, we were still really in the game and we had chances, we were pushing and it was never easy with the number of games we have played recently. To come here and fight until the end like we did, there are a lot of positives to take forward for the next few games.

"Now we have another big test against Preston on Saturday, it is never easy to go there either, and now it is up to us to take the stuff we did well tonight to Preston and get the three points."

Knockaert believes there is plenty of quality within the dressing room and says the team need to continue to show togetherness to get themselves away from the bottom part of the table.

He said: "I have never doubted the quality of this team and we shouldn't be where we are with the quality we have. But we need to stick together, there is still a long way to go and hopefully we can get out of this quickly.

"If we keep going like we have done in the last few games, I am sure there is no way we will stay there."



https://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/2020/december/anthony-knockaert-post-stoke-city/

Gareth Bale: Jose Mourinho suffers untimely blow to his Tottenham Hotspur squad

Speaking ahead of this evening's game, Tottenham Hotspur boss Jose Mourinho has worryingly ruled out Gareth Bale for their upcoming fixtures...

What's the news?

When asked about the fitness of the 31-year-old earlier in the week, he told reporters, via Sky Sports:

"No, I don't expect Gareth to be fit. I wouldn't say it's a serious injury, but I would say a few weeks.

It's not the first time that the Welsh superstar has been absent through some sort of problem this season. He arrived with a niggling issue and missed several matches at the start of this month too.



https://www.footballfancast.com/tottenham-hotspur-news/spurs-latest-team-injury-news-fulham-jose-mourinho-lineup-gareth-bale-blow-xi-premier-league-gossip-news-update

Parker 'can't wait' to go up against former boss Mourinho

Scott Parker admits Jose Mourinho brought ideas the Fulham head coach had never seen before when the pair were at Chelsea together.

The Special One was just off the back of a Champions League triumph with Porto and Parker was six months into a long-term contract after joining from Charlton.

Tonight, 16 years later, the two are due to face each other as coaches in opposite dugouts at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the first time.

Parker has to pinch himself.

He said: "It only felt like yesterday I was a player at Chelsea and he was manager. I'm relishing the opportunity and can't wait to meet up with again."

Parker recalled: "He had charisma. I think winning the Champions League brought confidence for Jose and also the squad and how they perceived that.

"He was very detailed. He came into Chelsea and brought new ideas; ideas and training methods a lot of us had never seen.

"I have nothing but fond memories of that time."

Mourinho also had time to text Parker when he was appointed manager at Fulham, and when the Whites boss won promotion from the Championship last season.

"He's got something about him and as a manager what's he done speaks for itself," Parker added.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/parker-cant-wait-to-go-up-against-former-boss-mourinho

Premier League's stance on possible shutdown after clubs discuss two-week break

A record high number of positive coronavirus tests were returned this week, with Man City's clash with Everton postponed

Premier League chiefs are determined not to shut down the season despite clubs holding secret meetings about taking a ' coronavirus break'.

A number of clubs have discussed a two-week temporary halt next month as the football is in serious danger of descending into farce.

The Premier League announced yesterday a record number of positive tests, with 18 detected in the week between Monday December 21 and Sunday, December 27.

But League bosses have no intention of suspending the season – despite a spike in Covid-19 causing chaos throughout the game.

Government chiefs have also offered reassurance that there are no plans to stop top flight football or elite sport despite the rise in cases and Premier bosses are confident the season will remain on track.

Manchester City were forced to postpone Monday night's clash at Everton following an outbreak of the pandemic in the club's first team bubble.

City fear their season could be derailed with further positive cases among their players and staff.

City carried out tests on all of their squad, coaching staff and first-team support staff at their training ground yesterday, with the results due back today.

If, as expected, further positive cases are confirmed, City's Premier League game at Chelsea on Sunday will be called off, leading to more fixture pile-up for the Blues.

Sheffield United joined Manchester City in reporting an outbreak after a "number of cases" prior to their Premier League clash with Burnley which still went ahead,

Not long after it was revealed that Southampton boss Ralph Hassenhuttl would be managing his club's clash with West Ham last night from home after a member of his household tested positive.

And it is also understood there have been positives in the Fulham camp, although Tottenham are fully expecting Wednesday night's game to go ahead.

The Premier League remain convinced that their protocols are working and, despite the rise in cases, that their games are safe. There is also no room in the already busy Premier League fixture schedule to rearrange games.

The bigger concern is now for the EFL as mass postponements in the FA Cup third round could also cause chaos and there is not as much testing or protocols in place as the top flight.

The record high number of Premier League tests was 18 from 1,479 players and staff tested which they insist is still a very small proportion and only two games – Newcastle against Aston Villa and City's trip to Everton – have been postponed since the restart in June.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/premier-league-coronavirus-man-city-23238084

Fulham And West Brom Scouting Teenage Centre-Back

West Brom and Fulham are amongst the club who are keeping close tabs on Grimsby defender Matty Pollock, according to The Daily Telegraph.

The 19-year-old centre-back is the product of the League Two side's academy and he has been attracting major interest from clubs above the fourth tier of English football.

The teenage defender's performances have piqued the interest from several clubs in the Premier League and the Championship this season.

It has been claimed scouts from several clubs have flocked to Grimsby's matches in recent weeks to watch Pollock in action.

And Premier League pair Fulham and West Brom have had their talent spotters check up on Pollock.

Pollock scored in consecutive games during the Christmas period and has been tipped to move on to bigger things in the future.

The teenager is out of contract in the summer, but Grimsby are likely to take up the option to extend his contract until 2022.

The League Two side are unlikely to stand in his way if an offer comes in from top clubs, but want to secure their investment by extending his contract.

It remains to be seen whether any of his suitors are prepared to make a move for Pollock in the winter transfer window.



https://insidefutbol.com/2020/12/30/fulham-and-west-brom-scouting-teenage-centre-back/487779/

Preview Panel - Fulham

We've the ideal panel for our Fulham preview - a former Spur (who also used to play for Fulham) and a former Fulham goalkeeper, both now heavily involved in media duties in the Premier League...

Introducing the panel
Michael Brown - A tigerish midfielder, Michael came through the youth system to play for Manchester City between 1995-2000. He then shone at Sheffield United, leading to a move to Spurs in 2004. He spent 18 months with us before switching to Fulham, and had spells at Wigan, Pompey, Leeds and Port Vale before retiring at 40 with 650 career appearances under his belt. He's now a busy broadcaster and pundit for Sky Sports, BBC Five Live, City TV and Quest. @michaelbrowny1

Mark Schwarzer - Australian international goalkeeper with 109 caps, Mark spent 20 years in the Premier League with Middlesbrough, Fulham, Chelsea and Leicester City, racking up over 750 career appearances between 1990-2016, including over 200 for the Cottagers, 2008-2013. His caps also spanned 20 years and included the 2006 and 2010 World Cups. He's now a pundit with Optus Sports (Australia), BBC Five Live and Sky Sports. @schwarzer_mark

Michael Brown
"Fulham are managing to stay in games at the moment, and I can't see them wanting to come out too much in this one. They will want to get on the ball, move it around, be patient, and Scott Parker always wants his team to play. They've found a way of not conceding as many goals as late, that would have been a worry for them. This is a game Spurs can win and will look to win, no doubt. It's all about the reaction after the draw at Wolves and ending this little spell. Ultimately, it's about finishing teams off. At 1-0, as we saw at Palace, a game I covered, and Wolves, teams will always have a go. At 1-0, you're always on edge, but if you get the second goal, it's goodnight. That's key."

Mark Schwarzer
"I know Spurs have a pretty good record against Fulham - we always found this game a tough one. Fulham have hit some consistent form, they've become a lot more difficult to break down and seem to have found a system that's working for this group of players. A lot of people will have raised eyebrows when they saw Aleksandar Mitrovic on the bench early on, but that's worked pretty well in terms of mobility, Fulham being able to defend in numbers but also able to hit teams on the counter. Ruben Loftus-Cheek is a big signing (on loan from Chelsea), providing he stays fit. Another player to impress me is goalkeeper Alphonse Areola (on loan from PSG), who I knew was very good before he arrived at Fulham, he's a very good signing. So, for Spurs, it's obvious, they're not finishing games off, so they need to punish teams. For Fulham, it's a case of trying to ride the storm for a while, they know the dangers that the likes of Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son pose, but it's one thing knowing and another stopping them! They'll need a little luck and then to take any chances that come their way."



https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/2020/december/preview-panel-fulham/

Premier League managers in disagreement over two-week Covid 'circuit breaker' plans

With coronavirus cases on the rise, there has been a discussion that the top-flight could pause for a fortnight, until numbers are reduced

Premier League bosses are divided over talks to implement a two-week 'circuit breaker' into the already hectic fixture shcedule.

The top-flight was suspended for three months during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic, with the season only completed behind-closed-doors in the summer.

That has caused a fixture pile-up in the 2020/21 campaign, as leagues across the world attempt to navigate their way through the outbreak.

The English leagues have come through the opening months of the season relatively unscathed, but with a second wave sweeping across the country, cases within the game are on the rise.

Newcastle United's fixture with Aston Villa was the first to be cancelled, with the Magpies unable to fulfil the fixture due to a number of positive cases.

And now, Manchester City 's trip to Everton has been postponed following an outbreak within their first-team bubble.

Their clash with Chelsea could also be at risk, with more results set to be revealed today.

The Premier League announced yesterday a record number of positive tests, with 18 detected in the week between Monday December 21 and Sunday, December 27.

Although Mirror Sport understands the Premier League have no intention of pausing the season, clubs have begun talks about a potential fortnight break to allow cases to reduce.

West Brom boss Sam Allardyce has claimed he is in support of such a break, with the priority on the safety of players and coaches alike.

He said: "Everyone's safety is more important than anything else," he said. "When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus, we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break.

"I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I'm very concerned for myself and football in general. If that's what needs to be done we need to do it. We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try."

Similarly, Brighton manager Graham Potter has claimed: "We have to make sure we do the right thing, because football is important, but not as important as people's lives and health."

Sean Dyche has also hinted he would back action, if numbers continue to rise: "Players have still got to live their lives, they've still got to operate in a way that is within the rules and the guidelines; the ones we have within the camp are very strict but the players have lives," the Burnley boss said.

"They have families and we are told that it (the virus) is everywhere so we can only stay within the guidelines, I just hope it stays outside of football as best it can. If the numbers keep rising we'll have to deal with that accordingly."

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said he would also be in favour of pausing the season, if the decision was made with player safety in mind.

And while Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo told reporters "everyone is worried" about the increasing numbers, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted he cannot see the benefit of the break.

"It's not something I've thought about a lot. I think our players have been really good in following protocols and rules," Solskjaer said.

"That's part of the job here, that we as clubs follow the protocols given. I can't see the benefit in having a circuit break, whatever it's going to be called."

Solskjaer's former United teammate Gary Neville has backed his verdict, suggesting it shouldn't stop as the "virus isn't going anywhere in 2-4 weeks".

Sheffield United have had an outbreak within their squad, but Blades boss Chris Wilder has said they will not look "to get anything canned".



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/premier-league-break-coronavirus-managers-23238674

West Brom, Fulham 'watching' highly-rated Grimsby Town starlet

The Telegraph has reported that Premier League pair West Brom and Fulham are both interested in Grimsby Town youngster Mattie Pollock.

Ahead of the January transfer window, Grimsby Town defender Mattie Pollock is rumoured to be attracting interest.

As covered here on The72, reports claimed Pollock was previously wanted in the Premier League and now, links have emerged once again.

Fulham and West Brom 'watching'

As per The Telegraph's Mike McGrath, Premier League duo Fulham and West Brom are both showing an interest in Pollock.

Scouts from the top-tier pair have been in attendance of Grimsby's games ahead of the transfer window, so it will be interesting to see if it develops into something serious in January.

Pollock's season so far

Pollock has been a mainstay in the Mariners starting 11 this season. Across all competitions, the young defender has played in 21 games across all competitions.

In the process, he has found the back of the net four times, including two in his last three.

His career to date

After spending time in the academies of Leeds United and Polton Allstars, Pollock joins Grimsby.

Since making his way through the youth ranks, the centre-back has notched up 50 senior appearances at just 19. He looks to have a big future in the game, collecting a good amount of Football League experience at an early stage in his career.



https://the72.co.uk/211491/west-brom-fulham-watching-highly-rated-grimsby-town-starlet/

Will the Premier League be postponed? Latest on if Spurs vs Fulham is cancelled and if other games will follow
Spurs vs Fulham on Wednesday evening is reportedly in doubt due to Covid-19 as calls for a two-week break leaves Premier League managers divided

West Brom manager Sam Allardyce has led calls for a two-break "circuit break" to stem the rise of Covid-19 cases in the Premier League, though Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer does not see the benefit of halting football matches for a fortnight.

On Tuesday, the Premier League revealed there were 18 positive coronavirus tests among players and staff in the top tier, a season-high total.

A number of Covid cases at Fulham has reportedly put their match with Tottenham on Wednesday evening in doubt, with the Premier League Board having the final say as to whether the 6pm fixture at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will go ahead.

It would be the third postponement of the Premier League season, and second in a week after Everton vs Manchester City was called off just hours ahead of kick-off on Monday amid several positive cases in the City camp. Aston Villa vs Newcastle was also postponed earlier this month.


    Premier League guidance on postponements

    Guidance in the Premier League 2020-21 Handbook states: "Permission will not be granted to postpone a League Match where the applicant Club has 14 or more Players listed on its Squad List available."

    The Premier League Board agreed to postpone Everton vs Man City after City lodged a late request following a rise in cases at the club.

    "The Board agreed to rearrange the game as a precaution, and further testing will now take place tomorrow," a statement read. "The decision has been taken with the health of players and staff the priority."

    The Premier League went on to state it has "full confidence in its protocols and rules, and the way in which all clubs are implementing them".


The Telegraph reported Premier League chairmen have discussed a potential two-week break, while Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo has suggested further talks may be necessary.

And speaking after his side's 5-0 loss to Leeds, 66-year-old Allardyce claimed safety is paramount given the rise in cases across the UK, with the majority of England expected to be placed under the toughest tier four restrictions after the official number of new daily cases soared past 50,000 for the first time on Tuesday.

"Everyone's safety is more important than anything else," he said. "When I listen to the news the variant virus transmits quicker than the original virus [so] we can only do the right thing which is have a circuit break.

"I am 66 years old and the last thing I want to do is catch Covid. I'm very concerned for myself and football in general. If that's what needs to be done we need to do it. We had one positive this week and it seems to be creeping around no matter how hard we try."

Solskjaer: I can't see benefit of break

Manchester United manager Solskjaer watched his side move up to second in the table after a last-gasp win over Wolves on Tuesday night, and the Norwegian suggested the schedule would only get more congested if a circuit break were to be approved.

"It's not something I've thought about a lot. I think our players have been really good in following protocols and rules," Solskjaer said.

"That's part of the job here, that we as clubs follow the protocols given. I can't see the benefit in having a circuit break, whatever it's going to be called.

"Because when are we going to play the games? We all know this year is so difficult, but I don't think stopping the games is going to make a big, big change."

Neville: 'This virus isn't going anywhere in 2-4 weeks!!'

Ex-Manchester United defender Gary Neville does not believe a two-week break is required. The Sky Sports pundit said on Twitter: "Football has proven through the last 6 months it can operate safely. It was right to be cautious and concerned through the first lockdown when the virus was new and unknown. It shouldn't stop now in my opinion . This virus isn't going anywhere in 2-4 weeks!!"

What have other Premier League managers said?

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo: "The rising of the cases is increasing massively over the country and we are not an exception.

"Some things are impossible to avoid. If there's a break coming, then people have to sit down and see if it's for the better."

Brighton boss Graham Potter: "Whatever the people think is the right thing to do, for the health of our community, that's the most important thing. Whatever is deemed right, that's what we'll do."

Burnley boss Sean Dyche: "We've got protocols in place and everyone has tried to align with the protocols. But that doesn't stop everything.

"I just hope it stays outside of football as best it can. If the numbers keep rising we'll have to deal with that accordingly."




https://inews.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league-postponed-spurs-vs-fulham-cancelled-tonight-latest-news-fixtures-812104?ITO=newsnow

"Lots of opportunities will probably open up" – Fulham player says decision on future will be taken next summer

Joachim Andersen was one of the players who arrived at Fulham in the final stretch of the summer transfer window.

He joined the Cottagers on a season-long loan deal from Lyon, a year after signing for the Ligue 1 side on a permanent deal.

Sylvinho was in charge at Lyon when the centre-back agreed to join the French club, but the Brazilian was sacked in October and replaced by Rudi Garcia, with the latter never giving prominence to the 24-year-old.

Having failed to have the confidence and belief of his manager, the Denmark international decided to join Fulham on a loan deal in the last window.

The former Sampdoria man is a regular for the Premier League side and was even handed the captain's armband in his first few months at Craven Cottage.

"I'm proud to have been captain in some matches. It has been a great experience, and I am really, really happy to be here," Andersen told BT.

"After hearing about the interest, I researched how they played. Among other things, I talked to my former teammate in Lyon, Kenny Tete, who only told good things about the club and the coach, who of course I also talked to several times."

"Scott Parker said I would get an important role without having to get into too much. He gave me a good feeling and peace of mind."

The defender detailed his decision to move to the Premier League, but he refused to discuss where he will play once his loan deal with Fulham expires.

"The Premier League is the world's biggest showcase. If you do well here, lots of opportunities will probably open up, which was also one of the reasons why I chose the Premier League," he explained.

"Whether it is in Lyon, in Fulham or at another club, we'll have to look at that this summer."

When categorically asked if he doesn't rule out a return to Lyon, the Dane said: "No not at all. But it's important to me that the coach shows me confidence and trusts me – as is now the case with Scott Parker. Otherwise, it does not really make sense for either party."



http://sportwitness.co.uk/lot-opportunities-will-probably-open-fulham-player-says-decision-future-will-taken-next-summer/

What Tottenham Hotspur Can Expect from Fulham on Wednesday

We know Fulham come in the hotter of the two teams so what should fans expect from the Cottagers when they travel to face Tottenham Hotspur Wednesday.

When Fulham make the trip across London to face Tottenham Hotspur, it is not just another Premier League game it is a London derby. In most derbies you can throw form out the window, which might be good for Spurs as they have struggled over the last month of 2020. Alternatively, Fulham have seemed to figure some things out picking up seven points in their last six matches and getting themselves back in the fight to avoid the drop. So, what can Spurs expect from this rejuvenated Cottager team?

Fulham's Found their Formation

After José Mourinho adjusted his formation on Sunday to face Wolves, the system and line-up has been a big piece of discussion. For Fulham, that discussion is about how they have figured out the right set-up to help the team compete in the Premier League.

After using a 4-2-3-1 for seven of their first nine matches, Fulham have gone to the three-back system for five of the last six matches to great success. Cottagers used a 4-3-3 against Manchester City, their only loss over the stretch. For four of the other five matches and likely against Spurs midweek Scott Parker and Fulham have used a 3-4-2-1 formation.

Three-Man Line

The three-back line in front of a very experienced Alphonse Areola – on loan from PSG – in goal, has proven highly effective. Fulham have only given up one goal in their last three matches and five in their last six, which included matches against Leicester, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Southampton – all top six squads.

Tosin Adarabioyo was purchased from Manchester City in the summer for less than 2 million US dollars and at 23 looks like the club's center back of the future. Joachim Anderson on loan from Lyon is likely to be on the left and Ola Aina on loan from FC Torino is likely to be the right back. If the line continues to perform as it has, and Fulham avoid the drop, expect these three to all be permanent fixtures at the club next season.

A Defensive Midfield

One of the factors in Fulham's success with the three-man backline has been the midfield in front of it. With Scott Parker using a tactic José Mourinho would love, Fulham use have regularly been using two defensive midfielders and a left back among the four across the middle.  You can write in Antonee Robinson as the left outside midfielder.

Robinson joined this past summer from Wigan and helps provide width and cover in support of Anderson on the left. Along with Robinson the one other surefire midfielder starter for Fulham during this run has been Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa. The Cameroonian defensive midfielder – who just returned from a successful loan at Villareal – has been the Pierre Højbjerg for Cottagers.

Anguissa has been so good in the defensive holding role for Fulham he has more tackles and interceptions per match than Højbjerg while committing fewer fouls. His emergence in the midfield has made so much else possible for Fulham and Tottenham need to be aware of his presence on and off the ball.

Robinson and Anguissa are likely to be supported by two of four Harrison Reed, Bobby Reid, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, or Mario Lemina. Bobby Reid and Loftus-Cheek are the more attack players from the group, whereas Harrison Reed is another defensive midfielder and Lemina is your box-to-box guy. The point is that Fulham have found their answers in the back and midfield, whereas Spurs have been struggling to get things right.

Fulham Will Shoot with or Without the Ball

What has been interesting for Fulham, particularly during this successful little stretch is that the Cottagers are getting a lot of shots. In fact, against Leicester, Manchester City, and Liverpool – three common opponents – Fulham took six more shots than Spurs, conceded 12 fewer shots than Spurs, and earned one more point than Tottenham.

Fulham managed better stats and results than Tottenham in those three matches, with even less possession, as the Cottagers never had more than 32% possession. In other words, Fulham is attacking exactly how Mourinho wants Spurs to attack, where they are finding opportunities without having a lot of possession.

Of course, the big difference on the season has been the conversion rate. While Fulham have taken 11 more shots than Tottenham on the season (161 to 172), Spurs have twice as many goals, 26 to 13. This proclivity to find shooting opportunities should concern Tottenham. In the last six matches, Fulham have only scored four goals, but have seven points and have taken 56 shots.

This has been happening because Fulham have mostly moved on from Aleksander Mitrovic as the big target forward during this stretch and have used the young, speedy legs of left winger Ademola Lookman and right winger Ivan Cavaliero. They have only scored three times combined, but the pace has been causing problems for their opponents and may give Spurs trouble too.

This is going to be a match-up of two teams both looking to do the same thing, play off the ball and hit on the counter. Given the lackluster performance from Spurs the last few times out, expect them to try and be on the front foot, as Fulham has only once won the possession battle during their hot streak.

Ultimately, one of two things are going to happen here. Tottenham are going to click and put everything together and end Fulham early. Or this game is going to go back and forth for a long time, where the team that makes the fewest mistakes is going to have the best chance to leave with the points. If Tottenham are going to get their season back on track, it needs to start Wednesday against a resurgent Fulham.

Final Notes Before Kickoff

The kickoff is currently scheduled for 6 pm UK time, and will be streamed on Amazon Prime Video for those in the UK. For fans in the US, you can watch on NBCSports.

The referee for the match is supposed to be Peter Banks, who Spurs fans will remember well from his VAR handball against Eric Dier costing Spurs two points against Newcastle.

Spurs are likely to be without several key players as Gareth Bale and Giovani Lo Celso are injured, and Brazilians Lucas Moura and Carlos Vinicius are apparently unavailable based on Mourinho's pre-match comments.




https://hotspurhq.com/2020/12/30/tottenham-hotspur-expect-fulham/

Spurs v Fulham - history, stats and facts

In our final outing of 2020, we welcome Fulham to north London this evening (6pm kick-off).

Ahead of the clash at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, we take a look at the history of the fixture, some of its recent key moments, the statistics behind both teams' seasons so far, as well as the pre-match view from our opposition.

History

This evening's meeting between the sides will be the first in N17 for over six years. Last taking on our west London counterparts in our home district back in April, 2014, we overcame the Cottagers with a 3-1 victory that day - Paulinho, Harry Kane and Younes Kaboul were all on the scoresheet for us while Steve Sidwell replied for the visitors. In action for Fulham that day was their current manager and our former player Scott Parker. While on our books, he captained us against Fulham at White Hart Lane in March, 2013 -his only other appearance in this fixture. That day, we fell to defeat with another one of our former players, Dimitar Berbatov, giving the visitors a narrow 1-0 victory. That game remains our last defeat to Fulham in the Premier League and our only loss in our last 11 meetings with the men in white.

At home, we have enjoyed an incredibly strong record against the west London outfit. In our last 42 games against the Cottagers, in a run stretching back to September 1906, we have lost just three of those encounters (W26, D13). Two of those defeats, however, have come during the Premier League era. We have hosted Fulham 14 times in England's top flight since its reformation in 1992 and have come out on top nine times - including five victories in our last six meetings.

The most recent such encounter between the teams came in August, 2018, at Wembley Stadium. We claimed all three points that day on what was our first home game of the 2018/19 season as we were made to fight for a 3-1 triumph. Lucas Moura scored his first Premier League goal for us with a curling effort to open the scoring just before the break, but Fulham pegged us back just seven minutes into the second period - a certain Ryan Sessegnon teeing up Aleksandar Mitrovic. Yet, with just over 15 minutes remaining, a stunning free-kick from Kieran Trippier - much like the one he had struck for England in their World Cup semi-final against Croatia a month earlier - put us back ahead before Harry Kane clinically picked out the corner of the net three minutes later to seal the win.

Highlights: Spurs 3-1 Fulham - 18.08.18

Later that season, in the away encounter in January, 2019, we also took maximum points. Fulham took an early lead in the game via a Fernando Llorente own goal after just 17 minutes, however, a resilient showing from us in the second half saw us eventually claim all three points. Dele Alli nodded in just six minutes after the restart to get us level and then, in the final seconds of the game, Harry Winks came up trumps for us with a perfectly timed run to head home Georges-Kevin Nkoudou's peach of a cross to give us a dramatic late win.

Meanwhile, we are currently on a run of eight games without defeat in London derbies (W4 D4). Harry Kane remains the second-highest goalscorer in such fixtures in Premier League history on 35 - he is just eight behind Thierry Henry. Meanwhile, Fulham have the worst record for any side in London derbies in Premier League history having won just 19 per cent of their 131 capital games. They have also lost their last 13 on the trot - an all-time record in the competition.

This will be the final league outing of the calendar year for both sides and again, in such fixtures, we have an impressive record having lost just one of our last 11. The Cottagers also have form when it comes to final league outings of a calendar year, as they are unbeaten in their last five such games.

Last five meetings

20 January, 2019 – Fulham 1-2 Spurs – Premier League
18 August, 2019 – Spurs 3-1 Fulham – Premier League
19 February, 2017 – Fulham 0-3 Spurs – FA Cup fourth round
19 April, 2014 – Spurs 3-1 Fulham – Premier League
4 December, 2013 – Fulham 1-2 Spurs – Premier League

'They've found a way to play'

Despite having lost seven of their first 10 Premier League games of the season, newly promoted Fulham have enjoyed a resurgence on the pitch in recent weeks.

Beginning the campaign with four defeats on the bounce and conceding 10 goals in their first three games, the Cottagers were left rooted to the bottom of the table. The situation was made even more difficult on matchday five when they were unable to hold out for victory against fellow strugglers Sheffield United - the Blades scoring a late equaliser to earn a 1-1 draw.

    They are now playing in a completely different way with a completely different philosophy

Jose Mourinho on Fulham

However, since then, significant wins have come over Midlands duo West Brom and Leicester City and, in their last six outings in the competition, the west London outfit have lost just once. And despite not having taken the maximum three points in any of their last five games, they are now unbeaten in their last four games (D4).

Jose Mourinho believes that difficult start was just a period of adaption to the conditions of the Premier League for Scott Parker's men and that now, they have found a way to compete.

"They are getting lots of good results, they've found a way to play." Jose explained. "They forgot some principles they had at the beginning of the season and they are now playing in a completely different way with a completely different philosophy."

Similar to our west London counterparts, we come into this game without a win in our last four outings. While three of those results came away from home, our last fixture at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium saw us fall to a 2-0 defeat against Leicester City.

    It can be that you're playing against a bit of a wounded animal in a sense of they need a result, and you need to be very alert and realise that

Fulham boss Scott Parker on our recent form

We haven't lost consecutive home games in the league since January, 2019, and Jose Mourinho has never lost back-to-back home games in the league in his entire managerial career.

Despite our disappointing run of form of late, Fulham boss Scott Parker, whose coaching career began as our Under-18s manager, does not necessarily believe it makes it the best time for his side to face us.

"It can work both ways," Parker admitted. "It's not just Tottenham, (its) any team who are on a little bit of a dip or whose results have not gone too well. It can be that you're playing against a bit of a wounded animal in a sense of they need a result, and you need to be very alert and realise that, and at the same time can you add that little bit of pressure, can we make it uncomfortable at times in the game. So, I think it works both ways really; I think we need to have an eye on both sides of it. We understand we're playing against an exceptionally good team.

"I was there for a short time as an Under-18s coach, and everything about the football club is top class in terms of training facilities, the squad they've got, and we need to be fully aware of that, but also understanding that it might be an opportunity for us to get something."



https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/2020/december/spurs-v-fulham-history-stats-and-facts/

Spurs v Fulham match postponed

Wednesday's match off after Premier League Board meeting following rise in positive COVID-19 cases at Fulham

The match between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham, due to be played at 18:00 GMT this evening, has been postponed following a Premier League Board meeting this afternoon.

Fulham lodged a request with the Premier League Board to rearrange the fixture following a significant rise in positive COVID-19 cases, as well as a number of players showing symptoms today.

The Premier League Board has consulted its medical advisors and the decision to postpone the game has been taken as a precaution and with the health of players and staff as the priority. The group will now be retested immediately.

With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the Premier League continues to have full confidence in its COVID-19 protocols and being able to continue to play our fixtures as scheduled.

The League wishes those with COVID-19 a safe and speedy recovery and will rearrange the postponed fixture between Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham in due course.



https://www.premierleague.com/news/1960098

CLUB STATEMENT

The Club can confirm that this evening's away fixture at Tottenham Hotspur has been postponed. This follows a number of the Club's players and first team staff returning positive results from the most recent Covid-19 tests this week.

This decision follows discussions with the Premier League and advice from Public Health England.

Those players and staff who tested positive have been self-isolating in line with UK Government and Premier League guidance.

We wish the players and staff who tested positive a safe and speedy recovery.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/december/Club-Statement/