Friends of Fulham

Results

Report: Newcastle admire relegated defender Tosin Adarabioyo

Newcastle United reportedly like Fulham centre-half Tosin Adarabioyo.

The Athletic have claimed the Magpies are in the hunt for the 23-year-old, who is open to leaving Craven Cottage following the club's relegation from the Premier League.

Fulham struggled all season, but Adarabioyo, who joined the club last year from Manchester City, often came in for plaudits alongside Joachim Andersen.

The star had a string of good games this term, and it seems his performances have led to interest from other clubs.

As well as Newcastle, Arsenal are also said to be sniffing by The Athletic.

If Fulham do cash in on Adarabioyo, 20% of the transfer fee they receive will go to Manchester City, who astutely negotiated a clause when selling him.

Citizens manager Pep Guardiola really raved about the player in 2016, saying (MEN): "Tosin has a lot of steps to get him better. It's not done, but he has all the quality.

"He is fast, strong in the air, and has the quality to look forward behind the line for the next pass. He is a nice guy, his mind is open, he listens, he trains every day like it's the last training of his life and I like to work with these kinds of players a lot."

It is not mentioned what kind of fee Fulham would be looking for for the 6ft 5in star.

He would be a great signing

Yes he's been relegated, but Adarabioyo really did catch the eye this season.

Arguably he has proven himself a capable player in the Premier League, and he'd make a good signing for Newcastle.

The Magpies are in big need of a new central defender, and Adarabioyo would bring some much needed height to the backline.

He's still many years away from his peak too, and it would be good to have a younger central defensive option available.



https://www.geordiebootboys.com/transfers/report-newcastle-admire-relegated-defender-tosin-adarabioyo/

Strong XI from Solskjaer? - How Man Utd could line up against Fulham

The Red Devils could secure second place in the Premier League this week if they earn a point or more against the London outfit

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could treat this midweek's Premier League match against Fulham as a dress rehearsal for his starting XI in the Europa League final.

The Red Devils don't exactly have nothing to play for in the final two matches of the season as newly crowned FA Cup champions Leicester could mathematically still usurp them into second place in the Premier League.

One point against Fulham will be enough to secure second place so Solskjaer may try and get the points required versus the Cottagers so he can rest as many key players as possible for the last game of the season against Wolves.

The Europa League final is three days later, so expect a second-string XI on the last day of the season.

Harry Maguire is still fighting to be fit for the match against Villarreal and will miss the game against Fulham, as will Anthony Martial, Phil Jones and Daniel James.

Dean Henderson should start this one in goal, probably in front of a defence of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly and Luke Shaw.

Solskjaer has a decision to make when it comes to Paul Pogba, as although he can shine on the left of the attacking midfield three, it unbalances the rest of the team with Marcus Rashford having to go out on the right.

With Fred failing to impress against Liverpool, Pogba may be deployed in central midfield with Scott McTominay.

That will allow for a front four of Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Mason Greenwood and Edinson Cavani.




https://www.footballcritic.com/premier-league-manchester-united-fc-fulham-fc/preview/2148043

What Arsenal's interest in Tosin Adarabioyo means for William Saliba

Arsenal interested in Adarabioyo

It appears that Arsenal are indeed in the market for a centre-half. The Gunners had been linked to Fulham defender Joachim Andersen of late.

However, it now seems a fellow west London teammate of the Dane, Tosin Adarabioyo, is also in the club's crosshairs.

The Athletic report that the link between Mikel Arteta and the former England youth international could be a reason for the sudden interest, in addition to a reported buyout clause.

Arsenal and Newcastle are among clubs from both England and Germany thought to be monitoring the 6ft 5in defender, who is understood to have a buy-out clause in his contract at Fulham. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta knows Tosin well from their time together at Manchester City.

Whether this buyout clause is affected by Fulham's relegation is unknown.

Sheffield United midfielder, Sander Berge, has also been linked with a move to Arsenal and it is reported that his buyout clause has lowered considerably due to the club's return to the Championship.

What this means for Saliba

Arsenal will welcome back William Saliba from his loan deal to Nice where he has been since January.

In that time he has won many plaudits for his strong performances from a number of French football experts.

However, it has not been plain sailing for the young Frenchman. He left on loan in January and engaged in a number of interviews where it was clear that he had grown frustrated with a lack of senior opportunities.

"I really didn't think, transferred to 30M, that I was going to find myself playing with the reserves," he said in just one of the conversations published.

With David Luiz leaving the club and Shkodran Mustafi and Sokratis also having left since Saliba's move temporarily back to France, it was expected that he would have a simpler route into the first-team setup.

Despite interest in Adarabioyo, this does still appear to be the case according to Mark Mann-Bryans of PA Sport.

Yet, for Arsenal to invest in yet another centre-half would contradict that theory.

Although it is worth mentioning that Adarabioyo has partnered Joachim Andersen in defence on the left. Saliba has also played on the left for Nice, however, as a right-footer, it is expected his future is in his more comfortable position.

Adarabioyo is also right-footed and Arteta may be keen to have some versatile options across the board yet having Pablo Mari, Gabriel Magalhaes, Rob Holding, Calum Chambers, William Saliba, Dinos Mavropanos plus a further addition does appear excessive. It is likely one or two would have to make way.

Arsenal also have Daniel Ballard and Mark McGuinness who have enjoyed good loan spells. Much to be done in just this one area this summer.



https://www.101greatgoals.com/top-stories/what-arsenals-interest-in-tosin-adarabioyo-means-for-william-saliba/

Arsenal show interest in Fulham 23yo with release clause
Arsenal are one of the clubs to express an interest in 23-year-old Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo, according to reports.

The Athletic report that Arsenal and Newcastle United are among the clubs to express an interest in Fulham's Tosin Adarabioyo. The player is open to a summer transfer after his side were relegated to the Championship.

Adarabioyo only joined Fulham last summer, for a fee of around £2m including add-ons. Before that, he was on the books at Manchester City, which is where Mikel Arteta knows him from.

The centre-back made eight appearances for the City first team, before heading out on Championship loans to Blackburn Rovers and West Bromwich Albion. Those loans impressed Fulham enough to offer him a deal with them in the Premier League.

The 23-year-old made 32 appearances this season, but having only signed a contract to 2023, he's already preparing to enter the final two years of his deal. He also has a buy-out clause in his contract, so it seems like a very achievable deal for Arsenal.

Following David Luiz's decision to leave the club this summer, Arsenal will be looking at bringing in a centre-back. Adarabioyo represents an option with both youth and Premier League experience, and he's also covered at right-back in the past.

Standing at 6'5″, Adarabioyo is very strong in the air. He also ranks highly for interceptions and clearances, whilst committing very few fouls, though he doesn't attempt a huge number of tackles.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, given his football education at Manchester City, Adarabioyo's passing is very solid and another strength. He's right-footed but has mostly played as a left-centre-back this season.

Adarabioyo may have caught Arteta's eye again with his recent display against Arsenal. In the 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium, he made eight clearances, two interceptions, one tackle, blocked one shot, and won all of his individual duels.



https://dailycannon.com/2021/05/arsenal-tosin-adarabioyo/

Pre-Man Utd Press Conference

Scott Parker is keen to get some more points on the board to ensure Fulham end the season on something of a high.

Two more fixtures remain, starting with Europa League finalists Manchester United, who will be keen to secure second spot at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

"Tomorrow night we're playing the second best team in this division," Parker explained. "We need to end the season in the right way.

"It's been a big disappointment this year, not being able to stay in the league, but there's still a job to do, and that's be professional and have some pride in our performance.

"I need to make sure that the squad understand that as well, and that's the challenge for me.

"When you get to this part of the season with a week to go, two games, and your season is already defined and you know where you are, then it's those words and those characteristics which I'm conscious of, sitting here, so that's the main focus really.

"The most important thing for me is finishing this season and focusing on that. What's to be next year is a few months away.

"What's vitally important for me, and the players, and I need the players to understand that, is that you're in the biggest and best league, the spotlight is constantly on you, and you need to finish the season in the right way.

"We've got a very tough game tomorrow against the second best team in this division. If we turn up there and for one second don't have that focus in our heads then it's going to be a difficult game for us.

"It's already going to be difficult, of course it is, so that's the main focus for me certainly at this point."

Saturday's trip to Southampton saw the likes of Josh Onomah and Joe Bryan get some game time, and when asked if he has next season in mind when it comes to team selection, Parker replied: "I think there's an element of that, definitely.

"There are players that are contracted to the Club, players that will be here in a longer term capacity.

"But at the same time, us being competitive, us being very professional and making sure we can – as we have done for most of this year – show what we're about and show our quality, and try and put our stamp on the football match. That's the main aim tomorrow."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/may/Pre-Man-Utd-Press-Conference/

Newcastle discover new release clause in relegated star's contract – The Athletic

According to The Athletic, Newcastle United are showing interest in signing Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo this summer.

As revealed by David Ornstein, the centre-back has a release clause in his contract that can now be activated following their relegation back to the Championship was confirmed last week.

His colleague, Peter Rutzler – The Athletic's reporter for Fulham FC – claims that ourselves and Arsenal are eyeing a move for the England youth international, with the player himself open to leaving.

Adarabioyo, 23, is a 6ft 5′ defender who has been one of the shining lights in an otherwise flat season for Fulham, seeing him strike up an at times solid partnership with Lyon loanee Joachim Andersen.

He arrived at Craven Cottage just last summer, signing from Man City for a fee that could rise to £2m with add ons – a cut-price move that's believed to have included a 20% sell-on clause for the Premier League Champions.

Although they've struggled at both ends of the pitch at times this season, I've actually been impressed by the big defender more often than not when watching Fulham, with him possessing an impressive turn of pace for his height and a sense of calm in possession – two things many of our ageing CB options lack.

Here's a snippet from The Athletic's latest column on potential summer transfers:

    Arsenal and Newcastle are among clubs to have expressed an interest in Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo, Peter Rutzler reports.

    It's understood the 23-year-old is open to leaving Craven Cottage this summer after Fulham were relegated to the Championship last week. He has made 31 appearances in the Premier League so far this season, forming a key part of a new-look defence that looks set to be broken up this summer. Fulham are poised to lose their loanees after relegation, including fellow defenders Joachim Andersen and Ola Aina, who are expected to return to their parent clubs.

    Tosin signed for Fulham from Manchester City on deadline day last October, ending an 18-year association with the Premier League champions. He joined Fulham for an initial fee of £1.5 million, rising to £2 million with add ons. The cut-price deal also featured a 20 per cent sell-on clause.

    Arsenal and Newcastle are among clubs from both England and Germany thought to be monitoring the 6ft 5in defender, who is understood to have a buy-out clause in his contract at Fulham. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta knows Tosin well from their time together at Manchester City.



https://www.nufcblog.co.uk/2021/05/17/newcastle-discover-relegation-release-clause-in-fulham-stars-contract-the-athletic/

Manchester United v Fulham

TEAM NEWS

Manchester United could welcome back Daniel James and Anthony Martial from injury.

However, captain Harry Maguire remains on the sidelines with his ankle problem.

Fulham midfielder Mario Lemina is available again, having been ineligible to face parent club Southampton on Saturday.

Tom Cairney is still not ready to return, while Antonee Robinson has also been ruled out.

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

United have the Europa League final next week but this is their last home game of the season, with their fans back at Old Trafford, and I think they will field a strong team.

I can't see United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer doing the same at Wolves on Sunday, but a win here would be a good way for them to sign off. I don't think Fulham will be able to stop them.

Prediction: 3-0

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

    Manchester United have won 18 of the past 22 top-flight meetings and are unbeaten in 12.
    The Cottagers have avoided defeat just twice in their 14 Premier League games at Old Trafford: a 3-1 win in October 2003 and a 2-2 draw in February 2014.

Manchester United

    Manchester United are looking to avoid three consecutive league defeats at Old Trafford for the first time since February 1979.
    The Red Devils have conceded 27 home goals in the Premier League in 2020-21, their most in a season since 1962-63.
    They have lost their final home league game of the season in just one of the previous 13 campaigns, when they were beaten by already relegated Cardiff City in 2018-19.
    Their Premier League matches have produced 112 goals this season, more than any other side. Fulham's fixtures have seen the fewest (76).
    Only Eric Cantona (46) and Robin van Persie (45) have been involved in more goals in their first 50 appearances for Manchester United than Bruno Fernandes, who has 26 goals and 18 assists.

Fulham

    Fulham have earned a solitary point from their past eight league matches.
    They are winless in 16 Premier League fixtures against sides starting the day in the top two of the table since beating Manchester United 3-0 at Craven Cottage in December 2009 (D2, L14).
    Away from home, Fulham have won just one of their 21 such games, which also came against the Red Devils, in October 2003.
    Fulham can become the first club to win a top flight away match against Manchester United and Liverpool in a season in which they were relegated.
    They have failed to score more than once in any of their last 13 Premier League fixtures (scoring only seven goals in that run), since a 2-0 win at Everton on 14 February.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/57066741

Fulham defender Robinson to miss United game

Fulham will face Manchester United without Antonee Robinson.

The defender has an ankle injury and may not be available for the last game of the season. against Newcastle, either.

This season's race is also run for captain Tom Cairney.

Scott Parker kept hoping the midfielder might make it back to play some part before the end, but that isn't going to happen. Cairney has been struggling with a knee injury since December.

The head coach said: "Antonee's got an ankle injury. He's struggling a little bit with it at the moment.

"This game probably comes a little bit early as well. We'll have to see where he is come Sunday's game.

"Tom Cairney's not available, won't be available now this season. His season's done in that sense. Other than that, everyone is fit and well."

The trip to Old Trafford, in front of fans for the first time in more than a year, will see Parker rest some of his loan players with one eye on the future after Fulham's relegation.

"Using players that will be here next season?" he said. "I think there's an element of that, definitely.

"But at the same time, us being competitive, us being very professional and making sure that we can, as always like we have done this year, show what we're about, show our quality and try and put our stamp on the football match."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-defender-to-miss-man-utd-game

Parker still yet to speak to Fulham hierarchy

Scott Parker says there is still no meeting planned with the Fulham ownership to thrash out his and the club's future.

The head coach revealed last week he'd had no contact with director of football and co-owner and Tony Khan since the club's relegation had been confirmed – and he doesn't expect that to change until after the final game of the season, against Newcastle, next Sunday.

He said: "No meeting is planned. My main focus is here and right now and there is no further thinking than that at this moment in time.

"My main focus is Man U and then Newcastle. What's to be after that we will see.

"Any football club will sit down and discuss where has it gone wrong, what's gone well – but they are not things at the forefront of my mind, albeit that the season has come to a conclusion for us."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/whats-to-be-after-that-we-will-see-parker-still-yet-to-speak-to-fulham-hierarchy

Scott Parker: 'Fulham must finish the season in the right way'

Scott Parker urged his Fulham squad to end the season "the right way" as they prepare to face Manchester United.

The Cottagers' most recent stint in the Premier League has lasted just one season and snce their relegation was confirmed last Monday they have lost 3-1 at Southampton,

However, the manager said he wanted his side to show their capabilities in Tuesday's match at Old Trafford.

Parker said: "I think, for me, the most important thing is finishing this season and focusing on that really.

"What's to be next year is a few months away, and what's vitally important for me and for the players – and I need the players to understand that – (is that) you're in the biggest league and the best league and the spotlight's constantly on them. We need to finish this season the right way, really.

"So we've got a very tough game tomorrow against the second best team in this division. It's already a difficult game for us, of course it is, so that's the main focus from me certainly at this point."

    It has been) a big disappointment of course this year

Scott Parker

Parker added: "(It has been) a big disappointment of course this year, we want to stay in this league, but there's still a job to do.

"That's be professional and put some pride in our performance and I need to make sure that the squad understand that as well. That's the big challenge for me – and I don't really want to look past that."

United will finally be able to play in front of a crowd in their final Premier League home game of the season, and are preparing for 10,000 spectators.

"I think firstly all of us are ecstatic with fans entering the stadium," Parker said.

"Football stadiums have become very sterile a year ago, maybe more than that, and I think we've all missed the atmosphere and what that brings in stadiums.

"We briefly experienced it with, I think, only 2,000 in the Liverpool game and that was incredible.

"I think it's 10,000 fans tomorrow, albeit they won't be screaming for us, hopefully the following one we'll have them doing that for us."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-utd/news/scott-parker-fulham-must-finish-the-season-in-the-right-way_447902.html?newsnow

City to host Fulham in Premier League Under-18 National Final

City's Under-18s will play host to Fulham on Saturday, May 22 at the Academy Stadium in the National Final of the Under-18 Premier League.

Carlos Vicens' impressive City squad lifted the Under-18 Premier League North title last week with a 1-0 victory at Burnley.

Fulham meanwhile were crowned Under-18 Premier League South champions after a 3-0 win against Chelsea at the weekend.

Now the regional champions will come face-to-face to contest the showpiece National Final on Saturday.

Kick-off at the Academy Stadium is at 1pm.



https://www.mancity.com/news/eds-academy/manchester-city-under-18s-host-fulham-in-premier-league-national-final-63756855

Three reasons Manchester United should play Hannibal against Fulham

Manchester United gave a debut to young winger Anthony Elanga against Leicester City last week.

Elanga could feature again over the last two Premier League matches of the season, and Hannibal Mejbri should be a contender to join him.

Hannibal has been excellent for United's under-23 side this season, scoring four goals and providing a team-leading seven assists from midfield.

He has been training with the first team since March and he has a chance to be involved in these final two matches.

While the final game of the season against Wolves could be the moment for Hannibal, there is a case to be made to bring him in against Fulham instead.

This could either be giving him a start just like Elanga got against Leicester, or giving him 20 minutes or so from the bench, which is perhaps more likely.

The club website confirms Hannibal is available despite his under-23s red card in the final game against Derby.

Rest starters

One argument in favour of rotating and giving the kids a chance is to preserve Manchester United's starters for the Europa League final with Villarreal.

It is a balancing act, because after two defeats last week, United want to pick up some momentum to take into the final, and so we could see Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba from the start against Fulham.

But what if one of them gets injured? Is it really worth the risk? That's where the temptation to include Hannibal comes in.

Giving the young Frenchman a chance reduces the minutes one of United's key starters will play, and keeps them fresh for next week.

Fulham have nothing to play for

This would be a good fixture for United to play Hannibal in. Fulham are already relegated, and there is nothing on the line for them other than pride.

Fulham are at the stage where they may even be throwing in a couple of youngsters themselves and experimenting, planning, for next season.

This game is a dead-rubber, and giving Hannibal a chance makes it more meaningful, and potentially memorable.

With Champions League qualification already assured, United can take the risk, and no other club will be negatively impacted by a rotated line-up.

Fulham having nothing to play for also helps Hannibal's potential chances of success if he is selected.

It's in front of fans at Old Trafford

The match with Fulham could be a special one, with fans back at Old Trafford (invited!) for the first since March 2020.

It will be a great opportunity for Hannibal to make his debut in front of supporters, even if it just for 15 minutes at the end of the match.

This should be a better, more memorable alternative to giving him his debut in front of Wolves fans at Molineux at the weekend.

For the 10,000 fans in attendance, it could turn out to be a special 'I was there' moment to say they got to see Hannibal make his professional debut, and make it worthwhile irrespective of result.



https://www.unitedinfocus.com/news/three-reasons-manchester-united-should-play-hannibal-against-fulham/

Scott Parker: 'Fulham must hold on to homegrown talent'

Scott Parker insisted homegrown talent has to be part of Fulham's future as they prepare to face Manchester United in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Teenager Fabio Carvalho scored his maiden club goal on his first club start as the Cottagers lost 3-1 at Southampton on Saturday, it was a small consolation for the club whose relegation fate was sealed last week.

Fulham's academy has produced a number of quality players in recent years, although the likes of Moussa Dembele, Patrick Roberts, Harvey Elliott and Ryan Sessegnon have all made early moves elsewhere.

After the Southampton defeat Parker said Carvalho has a bright future, and on Monday spoke of the importance of bringing more players through from the academy.

Parker said: "I think the players mentioned there (above) are players that have extreme talent that we recognise and that unfortunately for some reason or another we've not managed to keep hold of.

"Throughout – certainly since I've been here – (I) have always been an advocate of young players first and foremost. Not just because it's the right thing to do, the players have to be good enough, and the young players that have quality and show that (have to) bring something to the first team.

"Fabio is a player that has done that over the last two or three months training with us, probably in the last six or seven weeks (he) has gone from just training with first team players and happy to be there a little bit to a player that has shown that he wants to get in this team and he can help us. I think you could see that in his performance against Southampton.

"(He) scored a goal which we're in need of and he's come into the team and managed to do that and his overall performance was very good.

"I think always I believe that at a football club your academy should be a large part of that and bringing these players through is paramount really so it's a good sign."

Parker added: "Young, homegrown players always need to be a part of Fulham's future and  believe this club needs to have those sorts of players around.

"Only if they're good enough and only if they have the quality. It's not a free ticket but at this club we need to use these players and, if they're good enough, we'll promote and use them."

This season's relegation was Fulham's second under Parker, he took over midway through their disappointing 2018-19 season.

The west London club were widely criticised two years ago when they finished firmly in the bottom three despite spending almost £100million on transfers, but for Parker, this season felt different.

He explained: "It definitely feels different. There is a disappointment around the club because of the consequences of what has happened.

"You're not really going to have a real guide on this probably until the start of next season because at this present moment in time, seven or eight of the players won't be here. We'll have seven or eight coming back.

"The real test will be at the start of pre-season. Let's see where everyone is, and where everyone's mindset is and how they are feeling about things. It's a bit more mixed. But all good."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/scott-parker-fulham-must-hold-on-to-homegrown-talent_447965.html?newsnow

Quote from: whitejc on May 18, 2021, 12:35:21 AM
Scott Parker: 'Fulham must hold on to homegrown talent'

Scott Parker insisted homegrown talent has to be part of Fulham's future as they prepare to face Manchester United in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Teenager Fabio Carvalho scored his maiden club goal on his first club start as the Cottagers lost 3-1 at Southampton on Saturday, it was a small consolation for the club whose relegation fate was sealed last week.

Fulham's academy has produced a number of quality players in recent years, although the likes of Moussa Dembele, Patrick Roberts, Harvey Elliott and Ryan Sessegnon have all made early moves elsewhere.

After the Southampton defeat Parker said Carvalho has a bright future, and on Monday spoke of the importance of bringing more players through from the academy.

Parker said: "I think the players mentioned there (above) are players that have extreme talent that we recognise and that unfortunately for some reason or another we've not managed to keep hold of.

"Throughout – certainly since I've been here – (I) have always been an advocate of young players first and foremost. Not just because it's the right thing to do, the players have to be good enough, and the young players that have quality and show that (have to) bring something to the first team.

"Fabio is a player that has done that over the last two or three months training with us, probably in the last six or seven weeks (he) has gone from just training with first team players and happy to be there a little bit to a player that has shown that he wants to get in this team and he can help us. I think you could see that in his performance against Southampton.

"(He) scored a goal which we're in need of and he's come into the team and managed to do that and his overall performance was very good.

"I think always I believe that at a football club your academy should be a large part of that and bringing these players through is paramount really so it's a good sign."

Parker added: "Young, homegrown players always need to be a part of Fulham's future and  believe this club needs to have those sorts of players around.

"Only if they're good enough and only if they have the quality. It's not a free ticket but at this club we need to use these players and, if they're good enough, we'll promote and use them."

This season's relegation was Fulham's second under Parker, he took over midway through their disappointing 2018-19 season.

The west London club were widely criticised two years ago when they finished firmly in the bottom three despite spending almost £100million on transfers, but for Parker, this season felt different.

He explained: "It definitely feels different. There is a disappointment around the club because of the consequences of what has happened.

"You're not really going to have a real guide on this probably until the start of next season because at this present moment in time, seven or eight of the players won't be here. We'll have seven or eight coming back.

"The real test will be at the start of pre-season. Let's see where everyone is, and where everyone's mindset is and how they are feeling about things. It's a bit more mixed. But all good."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/scott-parker-fulham-must-hold-on-to-homegrown-talent_447965.html?newsnow

What absolute nonsense, let's fill the bench with 4 centre halves rather than give the youngsters a chance. Stansfield played some 18 months ago but never been seen again. No way do I believe he will give the youngsters a chance.

Fulham defender Pep Guardiola tipped for the top could be Manchester United's transfer wildcard

Tosin Adarabioyo has been a stand-out performer for Fulham this season after his £2m move from Manchester City

(https://i2-prod.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/article20615549.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_GettyImages-1305814733.jpg)
Tosin Adarabioyo has been a stand-out performer for Fulham this season after a £2m move from Man City. (Image: Visionhaus/Getty Images)

The six-mile journey between Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium takes around 20 minutes by car if you discount the prospect of any inner-city traffic.

Factor in a four-year stop at Borussia Dortmund and you might not be too far away from picking out the top target for Manchester United ahead of the summer transfer window.

Jadon Sancho was first linked with a move to United when he decided to embark on a Bundesliga adventure.

His path to the top has been no less convincing than former Manchester City academy teammate Phil Foden, for example, but Sancho ultimately had to head elsewhere to become one of the hottest properties in world football.

It might not have panned out that way had he directly opted to swap blue for red in 2017.

Nevertheless, despite not playing a single senior game for City, England winger Sancho represents the quality of talent that can slip through the net at top-level clubs, even in a sport that is shaped by Premier League academies doing their best to universally hoard that potential.

Sancho is not the first, or last, player to fit into that category; he is merely the most high-profile right now.

A couple of years before him, defender Tosin Adarabioyo - now with United's midweek opponents Fulham - was a academy hopeful tipped for big things by Pep Guardiola upon the former Barcelona coach's grand arrival.

Shortly after touching down in the Premier League, the Spaniard issued a glowing assessment of Adarabioyo, then aged 18.

Guardiola said: "He has all the quality. He is fast. He is faster than the people can believe it and he's strong in the air. He has the quality to look behind the line for the next step, the next pass. He has a lot of things to improve on and I hope I can help him to develop his skills."

Five years later, the defender has moved on from City - but continues to be tipped with another big transfer.

It's incredibly difficult for a centre-back such as Adarabioyo to shine in his current environment. Fulham, despite a mid-season revival, have been on a one-way ticket to the Championship for almost the entirety of their latest stay in the Premier League.

A tough task, certainly. But with Fulham's struggles has come constant exposure and examination of his defensive credentials. In no uncertain terms, Adarabioyo has passed.

Over the course of 31 appearances in the top-flight - following a £2million summer switch from City - the defender, who was born in Manchester, has produced more clearances than any other player (178) in the division.

That impressive tally includes a record 17 in one game against Liverpool.

Adarabioyo can do more than simply head it or kick it, though. Indeed, his pass completion rate stands at 85.9 per cent; a figure that most central midfielders would be happy with, while as Guardiola suggests, he has pace to burn.

United are very much in the market for a long-term partner for £80million captain Harry Maguire.

Raphael Varane and Pau Torres are among the high-profile names to have been caught the eye, while Brighton prospect Ben White has also emerged as a possible target.

Perhaps, though, United can rekindle a path they want Sancho to take in order to find another piece of the transfer puzzle which awaits for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in just a few weeks' time.

Arsenal and Newcastle United are reported to be pricing up a summer swoop. Crucially, with relegation back to the Championship already confirmed, Adarabioyo wouldn't necessarily break the bank for United, either.



https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/tosin-adarabioyo-transfer-man-united-20615474

Scott Parker sends Arsenal transfer message and speaks out on future amid Tottenham links
Fulham boss Scott Parker has sent Arsenal a transfer message and spoken out on his future, amid links to the vacant role at former club Tottenham.

Tottenham-linked Scott Parker has insisted there are no problems between him and the Fulham board over the future of the club after relegation - and has warned Arsenal off of Tosin Adarabioyo.

Parker angered owner Shahid Khan last week when he said there had been no meetings with the club over where Fulham go now and his own future after relegation from the Premier League was confirmed last week.

The Fulham boss has insisted that his focus right now is on his team's final two games of a dismal campaign, at Manchester United tonight and against Newcastle on Sunday, and trying to finish the season as well as possible.

The 40-year-old still has two years of his Fulham contract left but has been linked with Tottenham and Bournemouth, with the former in need of a long-term successor to Jose Mourinho who was sacked last month.

Addressing reports of a potential rift between himself and Khan, Parker said: "No. Not at all - there is no problem between us.

"We have not gone into any detail on where we go now. I am in dialogue with the ownership, and that dialogue has solely been on what did we need to do to be successful this year, and what to do to win matches and stay in this division.

"Obviously that flame went out on us a week ago and now what my focus is on is these next two games. And that's it.

"Make sure that we finish this season in the right way, and what comes after that, comes after that. Any football club will sit down and discuss where has it gone wrong, what's gone well - but they are not things at the forefront of my mind."

Parker added of Fulham's season: "I'm disappointed. I am a realist and I understood the challenges we were facing this year.

"We have not managed to keep ourselves in this division, so there is disappointment and frustration.

"I am a fighter. Along anyone's journey there are bumps. These are the times when you learn, and when you become better and stronger.

"There's two ways to react. One is to hide away. Another is to brace yourselves in again, put your gloves back on and come again.

"It's not in question that myself, my staff and this team will do that."

Parker also insisted that Fulham are determined to hang on to defender Adarabioyo, who has emerged as a transfer target for Arsenal and Newcastle this summer.

He continued of the ex-Manchester City talent: "He doesn't need to go. Every relegated team sees other teams coming for your better players.

"But he's under contract - I can't see him going anywhere."



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1437495/Scott-Parker-Arsenal-transfer-message-Tosin-Aradabioyo-Tottenham-job-Premier-League-news

Bournemouth considered Norwich City's Daniel Farke and Fulham's Scott Parker last summer

Bournemouth looked into appointing Norwich City's Daniel Farke and Fulham's Scott Parker last summer, as per a report by The Athletic.

Bournemouth were in the hunt for a new boss and considered the pair.

However, the Cherries ultimately ended up appointing Jason Tindall as Eddie Howe's replacement in preparation for the current season.

Tindall's time at the helm ultimately ended in the sack and Jonathan Woodgate has the job until the end of the campaign.

Bournemouth are currently 90 minutes from a date at the Championship Play-Off final at Wembley after beating Brentford in the first leg last night.

This season could have been a lot different for them though as they had other managerial targets in mind.

Farke, who is 44 years old, was a name they considered. The German boss has guided Norwich City to the Championship title for a second time this past term.

He has been with the Canaries since 2017 and will be looking forward to having another crack at the Premier League.

Parker is another manager who has been linked with Bournemouth over recent times. His Fulham side were promoted last year via the Play-Offs but that didn't stop the Cherries from considering him.

His future at Craven Cottage is currently up in the air after his side's relegation and he is a more realistic target this summer.

However, if they win promotion Woodgate is in with a very good shout of the full-time role.




https://the72.co.uk/236009/bournemouth-considered-norwich-citys-daniel-farke-and-fulhams-scott-parker-last-summer/

'We are getting relegated': Some Arsenal fans worried after transfer news they're hearing

Arsenal fans are becoming worried over reports that Tosin Adarabioyo could be part of the rebuilding strategy at the Emirates Stadium.

The Athletic say that Adarabioyo is very much on Arsenal's radar, as they look to snap up players for Mikel Arteta's project.

Arsenal have badly disappointed this campaign, and there is a recognition that a squad rebuild may need to be done to get them challenging for Europe again, after what looks set to be a mid table finish.

However, Arsenal fans aren't exactly delighted with their recent transfer moves.

The Gunners appear to be closing in on a transfer for Ryan Bertrand (Daily Mail), and the Athletic's claim that Adarabioyo is on their wishlist isn't exciting Gunners supporters.

Bertrand and Adarabioyo are players who could fill holes in Arsenal's squad, but they aren't the type of additions that scream ambition.

Adarabioyo had just been relegated with Fulham and while he did have a solid season, the 23-year-old is far from the finished article.

Arsenal already have a number of promising youngsters at the club.

But without some ready made talent coming in to take Arsenal to the next level, it is difficult to see how they compete for the top four places again.

For the more pessimistic Arsenal fans it is worth noting that the transfer window is still young.

And while the club's initial transfer plans may not be the most exciting, they may still have higher profile targets in their mind, as the window progresses.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2021/05/18/we-are-getting-relegated-some-arsenal-fans-worried-after-transfer-news-theyre-hearing/

What channel is the Man Utd v Fulham game on? Kick off time, live stream and latest team news

Manchester United will seal second place in the Premier League with a win over Fulham.

The match will be the first at Old Trafford attended by fans since the 2-0 win over Manchester City in March 2020.

10,000 supporters will be allowed back into the ground and it's likely that the recent anti-Glazer protests will continue.

We've got all the information you need about how to watch United v Fulham on TV and online.

When is Man Utd v Fulham on TV?

United v Fulham will take place on Tuesday 18th May 2021.

Every Premier League team will get to play in front of their own fans before the end of the season.
What time does Man Utd v Fulham kick-off?

Man Utd v Fulham will kick off at 6pm.

Scott Parker's side have already been relegated after a 2-0 defeat to Burnley last Monday.

What TV channel is Man Utd v Fulham on?

You can watch the buildup to the game from 5pm on Sky Sports Main Event.

Thankfully, there will no longer be any need to have the fake crowd noise piped in.
How to live stream Man Utd v Fulham online

Sky Sports customers can live stream the game via the Sky Go app on a variety of devices, including smartphones and tablets.

Man Utd v Fulham team news

Defenders Harry Maguire and Phil Jones are out for this game.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told his pre-match press conference that Anthony Martial and Dan James will miss out here too.

United have no other new injury concerns, but Solskjaer has a decision to make.

He could make wholesale changes for this one and the final game of the season, to rest his players as much as possible ahead of the Europa League final.

That said, United have won just one of their last four games in all competitions and Solskjaer may think he needs to play a strong side to get some form and confidence back.

Our prediction: United v Fulham

On paper, this as easy a fixture as United could hope to have.

Fulham's end to the season has been abject. Sometimes relegated sides play better once their fate has been sealed but there were precious few signs of improvement in Saturday's 3-1 loss at Southampton.

United cannot afford to take this game lightly of course, but a strong start to the game should ensure a relatively comfortable evening's work.

It would be ideal to have second place sealed before the final game of the season, which would allow Solskjaer to make changes at Wolves with the Europa League final just days away at that point.

Our prediction: United 3-1 Fulham



https://www.unitedinfocus.com/match-coverage/what-channel-is-the-man-utd-v-fulham-game-on-kick-off-time-live-stream-and-latest-team-news/

Quote from: whitejc on May 18, 2021, 12:30:22 AM
City to host Fulham in Premier League Under-18 National Final

City's Under-18s will play host to Fulham on Saturday, May 22 at the Academy Stadium in the National Final of the Under-18 Premier League.

Carlos Vicens' impressive City squad lifted the Under-18 Premier League North title last week with a 1-0 victory at Burnley.

Fulham meanwhile were crowned Under-18 Premier League South champions after a 3-0 win against Chelsea at the weekend.

Now the regional champions will come face-to-face to contest the showpiece National Final on Saturday.

Kick-off at the Academy Stadium is at 1pm.



https://www.mancity.com/news/eds-academy/manchester-city-under-18s-host-fulham-in-premier-league-national-final-63756855

Why is this game being played at Man City's ground? Surely a neutral venue should be nominated.

Newcastle United, Sheffield United and Fulham want Kansas City forward Johnny Russell

Newcastle United, Sheffield United and Fulham all want Sporting Kansas City forward Johnny Russell, according to The Sun.

The Magpies have relied heavily on Callum Wilson, with the trio of Joelinton, Dwight Gayle and Andy Carroll not firing on all cylinders – they have six Premier League goals between them this term.

The England international, who has 12 league goals for Newcastle, has struggled with injuries and manager Steve Bruce is eyeing another quality option.

Russell has been one of the most consistent top performers in the Major League Soccer in recent seasons and has caught the eye of scouts in England.

The Scot has 25 goals in 84 games for Kansas since joining them in 2018, and Newcastle could offer him a shot at Premier League football.

The 31-year-old is out of contract at the end of the current American season in December and would be a cut-price option for the Magpies and co this summer.

Fulham and Sheff Utd are eyeing immediate promotion after getting relegated this term, and they will look to add quality and cheap players to their squad.

Russell's goals could come in handy, but he is likely to prefer finally playing in the English top-flight with the St James' Park outfit.

The Scotland international has English football experience, having played for Derby County in the Championship.

He could be keen to return to the United Kingdom in the coming weeks after coronavirus-enforced travel restrictions prevented him from playing for his country last year.



https://sportslens.com/newcastle-united-sheffield-united-and-fulham-want-kansas-city-forward-johnny-russell/356494/

Fulham really should have been so much better

When Fulham manager Scott Parker cried tears upon the full-time whistle at Wembley Stadium last August having guided the club back to the Premier League at the first time of asking, questions were already being asked of the former England midfielder's abilities to make the most of this Premier League season.

An admirable performance as caretaker manager had already been in vain as the Cottagers were relegated after just one season back in the big league, after a combination of previous promotion charge Slavisa Jokanovic and former Premier League winner Claudio Ranieri had both failed to inspire Fulham to a second straight season in the top flight.

Two years later and with another R by their name in the standings with games to spare, Fulham could perform only admirably and in vain once more. Given the playing staff at the manager's disposal this time around, it is a much more bitter pill to swallow.

The previous relegation saw the side littered with players, and particularly a defence, clearly not up to Premier League standard, as well as a mish-mash of managers in the hot seat with little joined-up thinking between appointments.

Upon their instant return to the top flight, Fulham sought to address each of these. While questions were asked of Parker's suitability to the role so early in his managerial career and having largely performed under par despite promotion in 2019/20, the former England midfielder was seen as the right man to guide Fulham to Premier League stability. He was not.

They also addressed that sub-par defensive unit, upgrading a defence largely consisting of Denis Odoi, Tim Ream, Maxime le Marchand and Cyrus Christie to a loanee in Joachim Anderson – linked now with a £30million move to Tottenham – as well as former Manchester City defender Tosin Adorabiayo, Ola Aina on a temporary switch from Torino and one of Europe's finest shot-stoppers in Alphonse Areola. Quite literally The A-Team, yet the Cottagers failed in their mission to consolidate in the Premier League once more.

Quite simply, it is a waste of a good team put together too late. It is a waste of great resources squandered by average management, and most of all, it is a crying shame that much of it will be disbanded ahead of another season back in the second tier of English football.

Much like their fellow relegated counterparts West Bromwich Albion, an exciting, energetic, potentially rather excellent Premier League side was put together frustratingly too late. Whereas with the Baggies, the boing was already halfway back down to the Championship by the time they had signed more-than-okay Okay Yokuslu, England international Ainsley Maitland-Niles and the surely Watford-bound Mbaye Diagne, Fulham put together their band of nearly merry men throughout the first month of the campaign.

Indeed, half of Fulham's 'summer' signings were made after the first game of the campaign, a 3-0 home defeat to Arsenal. It may have been a close season like no other due to the Covid-caused delay, but one can't help but wonder what a better prepared Fulham side could have done in this division.

We already knew that Andersen would be making a fleeting exit back to Lyon before joining a club more of the European Super League variety, but there are far too many Premier League quality players in this set-up that even the most ardent neutral cannot help but wonder 'what if?'.

If those feelings were rife after the first six games of the season – which brought with them a solitary point away at basement club Sheffield United – then they were in full flow by the time the winter window came to a conclusion, with one of its final deals being Sunderland 'Til I Die star Josh Maja signing on loan from Bordeaux, affording Parker the opportunity to rotate with the largely misfiring and certainly overworked Aleksandar Mitrovic. But like almost everything else in the player recruitment stakes, it was too little, too late.

Two goals in seven games showed that given a full season, the young striker could have helped fire Fulham to safety.

It might be naïve to suggest that a club that has not been above 17th all season could feasibly have managed to finish anywhere above the dotted line, but had the team been assembled over the scrambled period between their play-off final victory over Brentford on August 4 and the opening Premier League match five weeks later, they could have given themselves one hell of a chance.

It is harsh to throw all the blame at a recruitment team, coaching staff and owner for failing to assemble this squad in that 35-day break between seasons, but entirely regrettable that this campaign has played out as déjà vu to their last fleeting appearance at this level despite sharing a host of differences.

So many questions and what ifs make for a much more frustrating narrative than the seasons endured by Sheffield United and, to a lesser extent, West Brom.

Two years ago, a poor squad was unable to be saved by a combination of the manager that got them there, a Premier League winner and a fan favourite from his time as a player. This time around, that same idol has had the requisite players at his disposal but without the required skills to make the parts add up to a convincing whole.

And now, those parts will be destined to roam elsewhere, while Fulham prepare for another season in the Championship, aiming for another immediate return to the top flight with the remains of the Premier League carcass barely intact.

Parker produced tears of joy and relief in early August at Wembley. Less than a year later, another Fulham relegation is a crying shame.




https://www.football365.com/news/fulham-should-have-been-better-scott-parker

'Can't see him going': PL boss thinks 23-year-old reported Arsenal and Newcastle target won't leave

Scott Parker is expecting to see Tosin Adarabioyo play Championship football next season despite interest from Arsenal and Newcastle United in the Fulham defender, while speaking to the Express.

The vultures are circling high above Craven Cottage, smelling blood and looking to strip the flesh from Parker's squad.

Eight days after Fulham were relegated from the Premier League, three of their players have been linked with Arsenal already: Adarabioyo, centre-back partner Joachim Andersen and the enigmatic midfielder Andre-Franck Zambo Anguissa.

Parker, meanwhile, has been tipped to make an emotional return to North London as Tottenham Hotspur step up their pursuit of Jose Mourinho's successor.

As far as the 40-year-old is concerned, there is no reason to believe Adarabioyo won't be a Fulham player next term either.

"He doesn't need to go. Every relegated team sees other teams coming for your better players. But he's under contract – I can't see him going anywhere," Parker said.

According to the Athletic, Newcastle United have joined Arsenal in the race for a 6ft 5ins giant Mikel Arteta knows from his time at Manchester City.

But with a release clause rumoured to exist in his Fulham contract, the Cottagers may be powerless to prevent Adarabioyo departing if the Magpies or the Gunners are willing to stump up a sizeable sum.

The 23-year-old has impressed at times during his first ever Premier League campaign, although his decision-making and concentration must be improved if he is to make the step up to the next level.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2021/05/18/cant-see-him-going-pl-boss-thinks-23-year-old-wont-be-joining-arsenal-or-newcastle/

Team news as Man United take on Fulham in a fan-filled Old Trafford

Team news as Manchester United ready to take on Fulham in last home game of the season

Manchester United will look to get back to winning ways at home when they take on Fulham at Old Trafford later tonight.

The Red Devils have lost both of their previous two home games against Leicester City and Liverpool. While defeats are a part of the game, the manner of our capitulation was less than impressive.

In Fulham, United face a side already consigned for the Championship. The match also gives Ole Gunnar Solskjaer the opportunity to hone his preparations for the Europa League final.

Anthony Martial and Daniel James are back in training

According to the club's official website, there is good news on the injury front as both Daniel James and Anthony Martial are back in training. Although neither is expected to start, it remains to be seen if they are ready to sit on the bench.

    "They have done all their rehab programmes and ticked all the boxes so a couple of days of training before the game with the team, but they're not ready to start a game yet."

Phil Jones and skipper Harry Maguire are the only first-team players absent as they continue to recover from injury. While the former has not played for us this season, the latter's absence is noticeable.

    "We didn't lose any against Liverpool so we're fit. We're only missing Harry and Phil."

Hannibal to make his debut?

A dress rehersal for Gdansk?

Youngsters Hannibal Mejbri, Anthony Elanga and Shola Shoretire have been involved with the senior side in training. Along with Amad Diallo, it remains to be seen if any of them will receive a chance in the games to come.

There is precious little for United to play for in the Premier League. Whether Solskjaer used the last two games to gives youth a chance or fine-tune his tactics for the clash against Villarreal remains to be seen.

With fans back in attendance, United will hopefully put on a show and get back to winning ways.

10000 fans will be in attendence

Fulham will be without Antonee Robinson while both Tom Cairney and Terence Kongolo may miss out after having sustained knee injuries. Mario Lemina is back in contention teenager Fabio Carvalho could also get a run-out.



https://weallfollowunited.com/2021/05/18/team-news-as-manchester-united-take-on-fulham-at-fan-filled-old-trafford/

Can Rashford achieve century of career goals?

Team news

Latest MW37 team news

Did you know?

Manchester United have won 18 of their last 22 Premier League meetings with Fulham (D2 L2).

Marcus Rashford's next goal will be the 100th of his senior career for club and country (88 for Man Utd, 11 for England).

Fulham are aiming for their first win over a team in the top two since December 2009.

Fulham have picked up just four points from 42 available in Premier League away matches at Man Utd.

Match officials

Referee: Lee Mason. Assistants: Simon Bennett, Adrian Holmes. Fourth official: Anthony Taylor. VAR: Simon Hooper. Assistant VAR: Matthew Wilkes.



https://www.premierleague.com/news/2139455

Anthony Martial and Dan James are set to return for Manchester United

Manchester United duo Anthony Martial and Dan James are set to return to the first team squad for this evening's fixture against Fulham, providing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer with a huge boost ahead of the Europa League final.

What's the latest?

Martial has been sidelined with a hip injury and a ruptured knee ligament since early March, missing United's last 13 games in all competitions, while James has been absent since the second leg against Roma with an injury issue.

After the 25-year-old France international incurred his injury setback on international duty, Solskjaer revealed his fears that Martial may be out for the remainder of the season, but it seems as though the forward has recovered ahead of schedule.

In a recent press conference (via Manchester Evening News), the Red Devils boss provided a fresh update on the attacking duo ahead of tonight's clash with the already-relegated Cottagers, disclosing how they are expected to play some part at Old Trafford.

"I'm hoping to get Anthony (Martial) and Dan (James) back involved in this game which is a very good boost for us. Maybe they can even start against Wolves, and then maybe if they're sensational? It's hard to leave players out if they really perform at their highest level," said Solskjaer.

A significant boost

While Martial has not enjoyed his most fruitful campaign in a United shirt, the former Monaco man has still managed to record some respectable numbers throughout 2020/21

The Frenchman has bagged seven goals and provided nine assists in 36 appearances for the 20-time English champions and could play a significant role as they attempt to end the club's longest trophy drought in more than 30 years.

Although James has struggled at times since making the step up from Swansea two seasons ago, the Wales international has enjoyed some of his best displays for the Red Devils in the Europa League, as his 6.99 WhoScored rating illustrates. His performance in the 4-0 win over Real Sociedad in February, when he scored one goal and set up another, showcased what he is capable of producing when at his best.

Therefore, the duo's return to action tonight should provide a significant boost to Solskjaer's attacking options ahead of the showpiece event against Villarreal, and the Norwegian must be buzzing to see Martial and James form part of his matchday squad once again.



https://www.footballfancast.com/injury-news/anthony-martial-and-dan-james-are-set-to-return-for-manchester-united

David de Gea starts as Manchester United fans demand three changes to line-up vs Fulham

The Spaniard has only started one Premier League match since February 28 after being usurped by Dean Henderson.

Manchester United fans have urged Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to recall David de Gea as one of three changes to the Manchester United XI to face Fulham.

United return to Premier League action for their penultimate match of the domestic season after back-to-back defeats at Old Trafford.

Supporters will be welcomed back into the stadium for the first time in over 12 months, in what promises to be an intense atmosphere after recent protests against the Glazers.

While mass changes were made against Leicester, United were off the pace against Liverpool in their last outing, with a full-strength side restored.

Henderson came under scrutiny, in particular, for his role in Liverpool's third and fourth goals. As a result, United fans want to see De Gea restored in goal. The Spaniard started against Leicester in the heavily-rotated XI but hadn't started a Premier League match since February before then.

De Gea has remained active in the Europa League, with Solskjaer facing a dilemma over which goalkeeper should start in next week's final against Villarreal.

In defence, Axel Tuanzebe is preferred to Eric Bailly, with Harry Maguire still out injured. Victor Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Luke Shaw retain their starting berths.


There's a reshuffle in midfield with Fred dropping out the XI after a below-par display against Liverpool. Paul Pogba moves back into central midfield, allowing Mason Greenwood to return in attack alongside Edinson Cavani and Marcus Rashford.



https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/manchester-united-de-gea-demand-20621261

Former Fulham and Portsmouth defender Josh Passley opted against staying in National League to be part of 'exciting' Hawks project
Josh Passley turned down offers to remain in the National League to drop down a division and take on an 'exciting' new challenge with Hawks.

(https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/webimg/b25lY21zOjA1M2ViOWNlLTYwMzEtNGM1OC05NzQwLThkMTlmY2RmN2M1ZDoyODM2ODRiNy05ODIyLTQ1OWYtOTMxYy01MmJhMDBjMjE2ODQ=.jpg?crop=982:736,smart&width=990)
New Hawks signing Josh Passley. Picture: Kieron Louloudis

The former Fulham and Pompey full-back has signed a two-year deal at Westleigh Park following his release from fifth tier Dover Athletic.

Passley, 26, who had been with the Whites since 2017, revealed he rejected the chance to remain playing in the top tier of non-league football.

Instead, he was excited by the squad manager Paul Doswell is building for next season as the Hawks pursue promotion from the National League South.

But Passley - who had a 12-game loan spell at Fratton Park in the second half of the 2015/16 campaign - accepts anything other than returning to the National League with his new club next season will be deemed as a failure.

He said: 'I'm happy to be here and excited to get started.

'It was just the whole project, really, and who's being brought in (as reason for stepping down to the National League South).

'It's exciting and the prospect of getting the club back into the National League.

'I feel like the quality of the team being put together for next season - it's a National League team - it's promotion or nothing, really.

'I had a few offers in the National League but the prospect of this is more interesting to me than going up north or coming out of London. That's the goal (to get promotion).'

Passley's release from Dover was announced last week after his contract had expired.

He endured a frustrating final few months at the club where he spent four years, with the Kent side having not played since January as they claimed they were not in a position financially to complete the National League season amid the pandemic.

But now Passley is pleased to have found a new club - and have some football to look forward to with Hawks returning for pre-season training next month.

He added: 'It's frustrating because even when we were in (at Dover) I think we were off two or three times with players having Covid and stuff.

'In the end, we ended up playing seven or eight games and by the time we were done everyone else had played 15 or 16. It's difficult - a bit stop and start - but you can't really let that get in your head here.'

Passley is Hawks' fourth new signing following on from Oxford City pair James Roberts and Joe Oastler and Concord Rangers striker Alex Wall.



https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/sport/football/former-fulham-and-portsmouth-defender-josh-passley-opted-against-staying-in-national-league-to-be-part-of-exciting-hawks-project-3240690

4 Man Utd players with a point to prove after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Europa League warning

Manchester United face Fulham and Wolves in their final two Premier League games of the season, before attention turns towards the Europa League final in Gdansk

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has warned his out of form Manchester United stars that places are still up for grabs in his starting line-up for the Europa league final.

United face Fulham at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, with spectators in attendance for the first time in 14 months.

But they do come into the game on the back of three straight defeats, including defeats in their last two Premier League games at home.

They still need two more points to confirm their status as best of the rest behind Manchester City, before focus can turn towards Villarreal in Gdansk.

However, the Norwegian has claimed that the last two domestic games could still have a huge impact on the XI that kicks off against the Spaniards later this month.

"You know, you pick a team to win a game. We need to pick a team for the final," he explained. "If you want to go to the final 10 days from now, you want players confident, you want players in form, you want players I know I can get everything from.

"These last two games, of course is a chance for everyone, if there's any doubt in my head.

"I don't think you go into these last two games saving your energy for the final, no. You need to show, against Fulham, that 'I'm ready to do my bit for the team'."

With that mind, here's a quartet of United players that will be looking to make a lasting impression before his Europa League team is confirmed.

Mason Greenwood
The forward is not only battling for a place in Poland, but for a berth in Gareth Southgate's Euro 2020 squad.

Greenwood has hit form at the best possible time and has six goals in his last seven league games.

Against Liverpool, the youngster was relegated back to the bench in place of Edinson Cavani, but is likely to be given at least one start in the final two games of the domestic season.

More impressive performances could persuade Solskjaer he is truly ready for the biggest stage of their season.

Eric Bailly
Harry Maguire's status for the final remains up in the air, despite Solskjaer's insistence that his skipper will be fit and raring to go.

What we do know however, is that Maguire will miss the final games of the Premier League season, meaning Bailly could be handed a chance to show he is the best option to start against Unai Emery's side.

Axel Tuanzebe could get minutes, but it could be a pivotal week for the defender, who recently signed a new deal at the club.

Anthony Martial
Solskjaer confirmed that Martial is set to be back in the squad for Fulham, while a final day start against Wolves is still on the table.

"It's hard to leave players out if they really perform at their highest, highest level," the United boss said of Martial.

Right now it appears unlikely that the Frenchman will be able to force his way into the XI, but a strong end to the season could force an 11 th hour change of plans.

Daniel James
Like Martial, James is back in the frame this week in what Solskjaer described as a "massive boost" to the squad.

The Welshman proved his worth in the derby-day win over Manchester City, where his blistering pace caused the champions all kind of problems.

Consistency remains James' biggest issue. With three games between now and the start of the European Championships, now would be a perfect time to find some.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/man-united-team-news-solskjaer-24134980