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General Category => Archive => Daily Fulham Stuff => Topic started by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:04:20 AM

Title: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:04:20 AM
Fulham close to completing Muniz deal

Fulham's move for Flamengo forward Rodrigo Muniz is close to completion, according to a report this morning from Brazilian journalist Vene Casagrande.

The striker has been told that his current club are now happy – having become concerned that official confirmation of Fulham's intention to buy the 20 year-old had not arrived – and that he should prepare for the first part of his medical when he finishes his period of quarantine. Muniz contracting coronavirus added a further complication to what had already been protracted negotiations between the parties, but Casagrande writes that 'finally this soap opera is going to end'.

Fulham and Flamengo reached a formal agreement over a revised transfer fee yesterday and it seems as though Marco Silva will soon have the man he had identified as his number one target to supplement his striking resources.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/08/fulham-close-to-completing-muniz-deal/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:05:13 AM
Dael Fry raring to go for season opener against Fulham

DAEL Fry is one of the senior statesmen in the Middlesbrough squad and has been talking about the excitement for his seventh season in professional football. 

At the tender age of 23, Fry has clocked up 139 appearances in a Boro shirt and is destined to make plenty more. He's one of the first names on the team sheet and plays a pivotal role in the heart of the Boro defence.

Having had injury troubles to contend with for back end of last season, Fry has been involved with a number of pre-season friendlies and is raring to go for the new season.

Boro will face newly relegated opposition for the second consecutive year on Sunday having started their season away to Watford last year.

Fry is adament that can bode well in their favour and he and some of the newest talent in the Boro squad are capable of causing an upset.

Fry said: "It's always good to play the teams that get relegated from the Premier League because in the Premier League, the tempo is a bit slower and when they come back to the Championship it's 100mph and hopefully we give them a bit of a shock.

"It will be good to see where we are at really.

"The lads who we've brought in have been fantastic. The attitudes great. There's no bad eggs as they say, they are all fantastic.

"The togetherness this year is fantastic and we're all looking forward to getting started really."

Neil Warnock will et to enjoy walking in front of a crowd of Boro supporters for the first time on Sunday at Craen Cottage, a moment he says he will savour.

Fry is also equally as excited to see a strong Boro crowd follow them down to South London this weekend.

"We've missed them (the fans) so much. There's been times when last year when we'd won a game and you'd expect the fans to be cheering in the crowd but you don't quite get that but this year they are back in.

"Like I say they are the twelfth man and we can't wait to get them going really.

Fry added: "We have found it difficult at times. Sometimes when it's going tough in games, we just need them there. Like if it's a 50-50 tackle and they start roaring, that gives us a momentum really. This year they're back in and I'm so excited, can't wait."



https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/19490756.dael-fry-raring-go-season-opener-fulham/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:05:45 AM
Ream ready for promotion push

Tim Ream insists there's 'no hangover' from Fulham's 'awful' relegation season as he targets an immediate return to the top flight.

The experienced American centre half, interviewed by Peter Rutzler in the Athletic this morning, pulls no punches in his assessment of Fulham's failure to stay up.

"It was awful. There's no getting around it. I'm honest. There were times when I just thought, 'What are we doing?' It was hard. It was difficult. It was unenjoyable. Listen, any time you are losing and you are not moving up the table, it's unenjoyable. For me, it was doubly unenjoyable because you're not playing, you feel like you're not part of the team. You're sitting on the bench, but you're not really contributing.

"It's a drag when you get a couple of results and you think we have a chance here and then you don't take advantage. The guys who are playing, that wears on them. And the guys who aren't playing, you're thinking, 'Man, these guys are struggling'. But at the same time, the whole team is mentally breaking down, because those are missed chances. You see it every year in every division. It's tough to stay focused in the moment when you kind of think: 'Where is this leading to?'"




https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/08/ream-ready-for-promotion-push/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:11:57 AM
Championship 2021-22 preview: Every team's best signings, title odds and predicted finish

We preview the new campaign and assess how all 24 clubs are looking - as well as where they will finish in the final table

The new Championship campaign begins on Friday when AFC Bournemouth host West Bromwich Albion.

The clash kicks off a nine-month slog for 24 teams, all of whom have their own aims and aspirations for the season ahead.

Whilst the 2020-21 season proved a shoehorned one played out in front of mostly empty stadiums, the 2021-22 edition should represent something more familiar.

Teams have had a more traditional summer break and crucially supporters will be back in stadiums to watch the action unfold.

Here, Mirror Sport takes a look at all the runners and riders in the second tier - and we even give our prediction on what the final table will look like.

Barnsley

Promotion odds : 6/1

Marquee signing : Josh Benson ( Burnley )

Markus Schopp has the unenviable task of picking up where Valerien Ismael left off, after an outstanding top-six finish last year.

The Austrian has said he's in it for the long-term and it will be intriguing to see how Barnsley's young squad deal with another change of approach.

They suffered a huge blow losing skipper Alex Mowatt and also Conor Chaplin and loanee Daryl Dike.

We predict : 16th

Birmingham City

Promotion odds : 12/1

Marquee signing : Tahith Chong (Man Utd, loan)

Many questioned Lee Bowyer's choice to leave Charlton for City last term, but it proved to be the correct one.

They finished comfortably clear of the bottom three in the end, and their business this summer looks as though they are well-placed to set their aspirations higher than simply surviving.

Dion Sanderson and Tahith Chong's arrival on loan from Wolves and Man United respectively look canny deals.

We predict : 9th

Blackburn Rovers

Promotion odds : 10/1

Marquee signing : None made so far.

Rovers have been consistent ever since returning to the Championship in 2018.

Three mid-table finishes mean they've rarely been in danger of the drop, but fans are eager for a play-off tilt.

The fact that star man Bradley Dack is expected to miss the first half of the season is a hammer blow to those hopes. They're also yet to sign anyone this summer and it's vital they keep hold of goal machine Adam Armstrong.

We predict : 19th

Blackpool

Promotion odds : 22/1

Marquee signing : Daniel Grimshaw (Man City)

Neil Critchley's first season as a manager ended in a fairytale with Wembley promotion and Pools moved quickly to add to their ranks.

They have managed to keep the bulk of last year's team with the likes of Kenny Dougall and Jerry Yates eager to show what they've got at this level.

Richard Keogh adds much-needed experience in defence after leaving Huddersfield.

We predict: 20th

Bournemouth

Promotion odds: 5/2

Marquee signing: Emiliano Marcondes (Brentford)

Scott Parker has swapped a promotion push with Fulham for one with the Cherries.

The free transfer signing of Emiliano Marcondes looks a masterstroke, especially when you add in the talents of David Brooks and Arnaut Danjuma.

Plenty will be expected this season after coming so close in the play-offs last term.

We predict: 2nd

Bristol City

Promotion odds : 16/1

Marquee signing : Rob Atkinson (Oxford)

Nigel Pearson will be looking much higher up the table after a below-par 19th place finishing last time out.

The signing of Atkinson for a seven-figure fee looks a great addition as Pearson looks to tighten up a defence that was the third leakiest in the Championship last season.

There are also plenty of talented youngsters coming through the ranks at City, although next season may be slightly too early for them to flourish.

We predict : 17th

Cardiff City

Promotion odds : 9/2

Marquee signing : James Collins (Luton)

Wily old operator Mick McCarthy cerainly knows a thing or two about putting together promotion-winning sides.

Cardiff will hope that a full pre-season under the Yorkshireman will pay dividends as they look to bridge the nine-point gap that saw them miss out on the play-offs last year.

Collins and Ryan Giles are good acquisitions and much will be expected again of top scorer Kieffer Moore.

We predict : 7th

Coventry City

Promotion odds : 20/1

Marquee signing : Bright Enobakhare (East Bengal)

The Sky Blues are heading back home after a period of exile in Birmingham.

Mark Robins' side finished well clear of relegation trouble last season and with fans set for a long-awaited return, they will be hoping to continue the momentum.

Martyn Waghorn, in particular, looks an astute signing.

We predict: 15th

Derby County

Promotion odds : 22/1

Marquee signing : None made so far.

Derby have been beset by issue after issue in the off-season.

First there was another botched takeover. Then there was the EFL charge hanging over them. Fears were allayed when they were handed a fine instead of a retrospective points deduction, but then came a transfer embargo.

It could be a long season for Wayne Rooney. Unless they can add to their squad, a season of struggle awaits.

We predict : 23rd

Fulham

Promotion odds : 7/4

Marquee signing : Harry Wilson ( Liverpool )

The Cottagers are entering a fifth consecutive campaign in a different division. They will hope Marco Silva can be the man to lead them to an immediate Premier League return.

To do that, he'll have to coax the best out of an expensively-assembled but undoubtedly talented squad of players.

Harry Wilson adds undoubted talent to that crop, whilst Aleksandar Mitrovic has 38 goals in his last 57 Championship outings.

We predict : 1st

Huddersfield Town

Promotion odds : 20/1

Marquee signing : Jordan Rhodes (Sheffield Wed)

Carlos Corberan endured a mixed first season in charge, but will be hoping his high-energy style of play takes off properly this time around.

The squad has undergone extensive surgery with a smattering of experience added to the group.

Keeping hold of star midfielder Lewis O'Brien will be vital to the Terriers' chances.

We predict : 18th

Hull City

Promotion odds : 14/1

Marquee signing : Di'Shon Bernard (Man Utd, loan)

Not many thought Grant McCann would last following relegation from the Championship just over a year ago, but he was allowed to build a title-winning side.

He did manage to bring in five players before it was announced the Tigers were under an embargo.

He'll be hoping that is not too much of a handicap for the Tigers to withstand but it looks like it could be a long campaign.

We predict : 22nd

Luton Town

Promotion odds : 11/1

Marquee signing : Carlos Mendes Gomes (Morecambe)

Nathan Jones went from zero to hero after his return to Kenilworth Road. A 12th-placed finish capped a superb campaign and don't bet against Jones getting the best out of this group again.

Carlos Mendes Gomes is an intriguing addition from Morecambe, whilst Elijah Adebayo could prosper in his first full season at this level.

We predict : 11th

Middlesbrough

Promotion odds : 9/2

Marquee signing : Matt Crooks (Rotherham)

Neil Warnock has been busy in the off-season, revamping the Boro squad as he attempts to improve on 10th from last season.

Big earners like Britt Assombalonga and Ashley Fletcher are gone, with Uche Ikpeazu and Matt Crooks both intriguing additions. Despite the squad looking low on genuine quality, you can never write Warnock off.

We predict : 8th

Millwall

Promotion odds : 7/1

Marquee signing: Benik Afobe (Stoke, loan)

The Lions will again look to bloody the noses of the so-called bigger sides in the Championship.

Gary Rowett will be aiming to continue their impressive finishes; three of the last four seasons have seen them finish in the top half.

The arrival of George Saville will only increase those chances whilst Arsenal's Dan Ballard joins on loan and will be looking to make the step-up.

We predict : 12th

Nottingham Forest

Promotion odds : 6/1

Marquee signing : Ethan Horvath (Bruges)

In what will be their 14th consecutive year at this level, expectant Forest fans will be demanding a vast improvement on the below-par showing of last season.

Chris Hughton, embarking on his first full season, will be hoping he can rediscover the type of promotion-winning form he enjoyed at Newcastle and Brighton.

We predict : 14th

Peterborough United

Promotion odds : 25/1

Marquee signing : Jorge Grant (Lincoln)

Posh are back in the second tier after eight long years' in League One.

Key to their survival hopes will surely be striker Jonson Clarke-Harris, who notched an incredible 31 goals en route to promotion.

Also intriguing will be how Jack Marriott fares, after his return to the club after leaving Derby.

We predict : 24th

Preston North End

Promotion odds : 16/1

Marquee signing : Liam Lindsay (Stoke)

Preston will start a season without Alex Neil in charge for the first time since 2016. Frankie McAvoy, having been made permanent boss, will be hoping to put his own stamp on the role.

Liam Lindsay is a canny signing from Stoke whilst ex-Chelsea man Izzy Brown did look like an intriguing signing, but he will be laid low for an undisclosed amount of time after rupturing his Achilles.

We predict : 21st

QPR

Promotion odds : 11/2

Marquee signing : Charlie Austin (WBA)

Mark Warburton was happy with how his side finished last season and now wants to build on their 9th-placed finish - their best effort since returning to the second tier in 2015.

The permanent return of Charlie Austin was a natural fan-pleaser whilst Andre Dozzell's arrival from Ipswich also looks promising.

Stefan Johansen is another who is returning after a previous loan spell from Fulham.

We predict : 5th

Reading

Promotion odds : 9/1

Marquee signing : None made so far.

The Royals enjoyed a fine maiden campaign under Veljko Paunović but ran out of steam and ultimately missed out on a top-six finish.

That disappointment was compounded with the loss of star man Michael Olise to Crystal Palace for around £8million whilst Omar Richards completed an eye-raising move to Bayern Munich.

An embargo has meant zero incomings this summer.

We predict : 10th

Sheffield United

Promotion odds : 2/1

Marquee signing : None made so far.

The Blades want to wipe a disastrous campaign from their memories and in Slavisa Jokanovic they couldn't have asked for a better manager to mount a promotion push.

He's promised to not take a wrecking ball to the superb job done by Chris Wilder and with a few additions, they should be right in the mix.

We predict : 4th

Stoke City

Promotion odds : 7/1

Marquee signing : Sam Surridge ( Bournemouth )

After mammoth losses were posted earlier this year, Michael O'Neill is under pressure to cut his cloth. Nevertheless, Ben Wilmot and Mario Vrancic represent canny additions whilst Sam Surridge joins for a sizeable fee from Bournemouth.

City have finished 16th, 15th and 14th in the three seasons since being relegated from the top flight so will be after a considerable improvement.

We predict: 6th

Swansea City

Promotion odds : 7/1

Marquee signing : Joel Piroe (PSV)

Steve Cooper's departure wasn't entirely unexpected but new boss Russell Martin will be looking to hit the ground running.

He'll be hoping it's third time lucky after successive play-off bids saw them fall short in the past two seasons.

They'll have to do it without talismanic striker Andre Ayew, who's left for pastures new, and loanees Freddie Woodman and Marc Guehi.

Martin has a big job on his hands.

We predict : 13th

West Bromwich Albion

Promotion odds : 13/8

Marquee signing : Alex Mowatt (Barnsley)

The Baggies moved fast to poach Valerien Ismael from Barnsley. The Frenchman did a superb job on a shoestring budget at Oakwell, taking them into the play-offs and playing an attractive style of football.

Albion will want to keep the majority of their squad intact and stay true to their boing-boing name as they target an immediate return.

We predict : 3rd

* All odds courtesy of Skybet, correct at time of publication.

Our predicted final table

1 - Fulham

2 - Bournemouth

3 - West Brom

4 - Sheff Utd

5 - QPR

6 - Stoke

7 - Cardiff

8 - Middlesbrough

9 - Birmingham

10 - Reading

11 - Luton

12 - Millwall

13 - Swansea

14 - Nottingham Forest

15 - Coventry

16 - Barnsley

17 - Bristol City

18 - Huddersfield

19 - Blackburn

20 - Blackpool

21 - Preston

22 - Hull

23 - Derby

24 - Peterborough



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/championship-2021-22-preview-every-24688443
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:12:59 AM
Matt Grimes still to pass Fulham medical *Latest
The uncertainty regards Matt Grimes future at Swansea continues to take its time with news yesterday he still hasn't completed a full medical for his potential suitors Fulham. Conflicting reports on Grimes fitness haven't helped him with Alan Tate quoted as saying he could be back for Saturdays away game at Blackburn. However, sources close to Craven Cottage believe he is still soffering from the effects of Covid-19.

Take your pick.

Fulham have been patient with Grimes whose sale is one of the alleged reasons Steve Cooper left his managers position at Swansea last month. Having accepted a bid in 'principle' from Fulham the swans allowed Grimes to discuss terms with them. Unfortunately these negotiations became protracted and then the injury / illness to Grimes held up the process even more. What we do know is the 'principle' agreement fee will not include any agreed sell on clauses, appearance clauses or additional agreements. These are yet to be ratified.

Swansea City wanted the matter concluded this week, and although that could still be possible it's more than clear that if it does drag on Fulham will withdraw their interest and look elsewhere. They were initially keen to bring Grimes in as a first choice midfielder. That would then leave them with an option to possibly loan out Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa. The midfielder who is being tracked by Valencia, and who have already been refused his services on loan pending Grimes transfer.

The issue can't go on though, Swansea want a conclusion, Grimes has hardly kicked a ball pre season in anger, and money has started to talk. The swans want the potential 3.5 million deal sorted as rapidly as Fulham do. However, if the player isn't fit then the stalemate will continue. Here's hoping for everyone's sake Matt Grimes gets his wish to leave the Liberty shortly, because the season starts on Saturday, and it's time to move on.



https://www.fansnetwork.co.uk/football/swanseacity/news/55378/matt-grimes-still-to-pass-fulham-medical-*latest
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:15:24 AM

Marco Silva exclusive: Fulham manager in search of stability at Craven Cottage

Marco Silva: "I want and Fulham needs some stability. As a group of staff, we need to build something that's longer than in the past"; watch Fulham vs Middlesbrough live on Sky Sports Football and Main Event on Sunday; kick-off 1.30pm

Marco Silva says it was always his plan to return to work in England and believes Fulham provides the perfect long-term project at a club in search of stability.

The west London club were relegated last season after one season back in the Premier League, while Silva has been out of work since being sacked by Everton in December 2019.

After suffering relegation from the Premier League, Fulham's focus will be on securing a Championship victory over Middlesbrough this Sunday, live on Sky Sports - and Silva is up for the challenge.

"To be honest, I was always close to coming back to England," he said. "As you know and expect, I had some offers and I spent last season analysing out of work in terms of what I wanted to do in my career.

"I wanted to take on a good challenge and a good project. If that came in England, it would be really good for me of course. I always had contact with some clubs, and in my mind and in the minds of my staff, the idea was always to come back to England if a good project appeared.

"We were really happy when the approach from Fulham came. I don't need to say anything about the club's history - it speaks for itself. I knew them well from my previous experience as a manager. Their approach was really good and they showed trust in us to build something important after a tough season.

"We as a club want to get back to the Premier League as soon as possible but we know the Championship will be a really tough competition.

"I've had really good talks with Alistair Mackintosh the CEO and the owners. I believe in the squad and the base we've got here already. It's now up to us to sign some players to strengthen the squad as the competition will be long and tough."

Having agreed to a three-year deal at Craven Cottage, Silva is determined to leave his mark on the club in a way he failed to do so at his previous employees Hull City, Watford and Everton.

"At my three previous clubs, I was met by three very different situations," Silva added. "When I joined Hull, we were in the middle of a season. The aim of my team was to come to the Premier League at that moment and of course we took a risk given the club's position in the table.

"It was a really good moment for us as a group of technical staff even if at the end the taste of relegation was not nice. The way we were welcomed by the city was fantastic and it's something we'll never forget. It was part of our career development.

"We then had some offers from the Premier League and after that came Watford and Everton, but now at Fulham for sure we want to take on a long-term project. I want and Fulham needs some stability. As a group of staff, we need to build something that's longer than in the past.

"Fulham looks the right place to do it as they want to grow as a club and they are supporting us. The club are in need of some consistency and that is what we'll hopefully bring."

The Portuguese had options on the table from elsewhere but said he was left with an "easy" decision to make when the Cottagers made their interest known.

Silva has already made two signings since taking over, bringing in midfielder Harry Wilson from Liverpool and former Tottenham goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga, but the new manager said his dealings in the transfer window are not over.

So what kind of football can Fulham supporters expect under Silva?

"You can speak about many things around football, but the main thing is always the results. Our aim as a club is clear - we want to fight to be in the Premier League but many clubs want the same.

"Those that have just been relegated are always talked up as being in the mix to be promoted but there are many examples in the past where that hasn't happened. We have to be strong and in terms of our philosophy, we are learning something new every season.

"We have to try to be a consistent team and try to get the best out of our players. It's something we've managed to do at previous clubs. I like playing offensive football but we have to have a balance.

"We want to play attractive football but to win games in the Championship you need the desire and commitment. That's the main thing."

Sky Sports will show live coverage of Fulham vs Middlesbrough on Sunday, August 8, as the 2021/22 Sky Bet EFL season gets under way.

Sheffield United will be back on TV the following weekend as they travel to beaten play-off finalists Swansea on the night of Saturday, August 14, with Wayne Rooney's Derby travelling to Peterborough United earlier in the day.

The first midweek fixtures take us to The Den for a London derby as Millwall host Fulham, as well as Huddersfield's match against Preston, both on Tuesday, August 17. A key clash between West Brom and Sheffield United follows on Wednesday, August 18.



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/12370796/marco-silva-interview-write-up-shell-for-newsletter
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:17:39 AM
Championship 2021-22: How will Fulham, Sheffield United and West Bromwich Albion fare?

The new Championship campaign kicks off on Friday night, when West Bromwich Albion travel to Bournemouth.

The Baggies, alongside fellow relegated clubs Fulham and Sheffield United, will be targeting an immediate return to the Premier League.

Last season the automatic promotion places were filled by two teams who had just dropped out of the top flight, as Norwich City won the title ahead of Watford.

Bournemouth, the third side to come down in 2019-20, were beaten in the play-off semi-finals by eventual Wembley winners Brentford.

Things may not be so straightforward for the Whites, the Blades and Albion, who all have new bosses at the helm.

Some of their stars could yet depart before the transfer window closes, so how well are the relegated trio prepared for life back in the second tier?

Fulham
Who's in charge? Following what seemed a long few weeks of wrangling at the club, Scott Parker left Fulham at the end of June to join Championship rivals Bournemouth.

The west London club turned to Marco Silva as the man to guide them back to the promised land.

The 44-year-old Portuguese, who has signed a three-year deal, has had spells in England with Hull City, Watford and Everton - but has never managed in the Championship.

What's the squad like? The Craven Cottage side, play-off winners in both 2017-18 and 2019-20, brought in 12 players last summer for their ultimately-doomed assault on the top flight.

Six of those were loan signings, so gone are the likes of goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, centre-back Joachim Andersen and winger Ademola Lookman.

The Whites have added former Spurs keeper Paulo Gazzaniga and paid Liverpool a reported £12m for Wales midfielder Harry Wilson, while the core of the squad which won promotion a year ago is still on the banks of the Thames.

Keeper Marek Rodak, defenders Michael Hector and Joe Bryan and midfielder Tom Cairney did not get much of a look-in last season, while striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has 38 goals in 57 Championship outings for Fulham.

How will they fare?

Andy Rowley, BBC Radio London

Fulham will be among the contenders and might be favourites for promotion.

You only have to look at their squad to see that the majority of them have experience of a Championship promotion campaign, and they have added a brilliant player in Harry Wilson.

The Wales international's loan spells over the past few years at various clubs at this level have proven that he is a difference-maker in attack who can be deadly from set pieces.

There will be more incomings and outgoings to come for certain under Marco Silva. He's made a name for himself in this country without leaving an obvious lasting legacy at any of his former English clubs.

What might be most interesting will be how Fulham reintegrate many of their players who were deemed surplus to requirements while they were in the Premier League, many of whom were so instrumental in getting the club there in the first place.

They seem to have the squad to contend but do they have the manager, the team spirit and the determination to get promoted again?

Sheffield United
Who's in charge? After the exit of Chris Wilder, who led the club from League One to the top flight, and the caretaker reign of Paul Heckingbottom, the Blades have appointed a coach who knows his way out of the Championship.

Slavisa Jokanovic secured automatic promotion with Watford in 2014-15, and led Fulham up through the play-offs three years ago.

The Serb's sides are known for their free-flowing football. Having left Qatari side Al-Gharafa, the 52-year-old becomes the South Yorkshire club's first overseas manager.

What's the squad like? Probably in need of a pick-up, psychologically. United lost 29 of their 38 matches in the Premier League last season, finishing bottom and 16 points adrift of safety.

Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, a late call-up to England's Euro 2020 squad, has been attracting interest, while midfielder John Lundstram has moved north of the border to join Rangers.

The rest of the squad remains, with some decent options up front including David McGoldrick, Oli McBurnie and Lys Mousset.

Rhian Brewster, a £23.5m signing from Liverpool last summer, is still awaiting his first competitive goal for the club after 30 fruitless outings last season.

How will they fare?

Andy Giddings, sports editor, BBC Radio Sheffield

Sheffield United are expected to challenge for promotion.

The Blades have an experienced squad, many of whom have been promoted before, and a proven manager in Slavisa Jokanovic, who's twice led teams back to the Premier League.

Expect a possession-based attacking style and a high press without the ball, using a 4-3-3 (effectively a 4-3-1-2) formation to get more forwards onto the field.

Much will then depend on Brewster, McBurnie and Mousset finding a seldom-seen goal-scoring touch. However, the Frenchman's pre-season form has been encouraging.

Recruitment will also be key, with Ramsdale and Norway midfielder Sander Berge attracting interest.

But overall there is a quiet confidence the Blades will be at least in the mix for the play-offs - if not automatic promotion.

West Bromwich Albion
Who's in charge? The Baggies have chosen Valerien Ismael, who caught the eye with Barnsley last season, as the man to replace Sam Allardyce in the dugout.

The former Crystal Palace and Bayern Munich defender, 45, took over the Tykes in October when the club were 21st in the table.

He catapulted the Oakwell side up the division and into the play-offs with a brand of direct football and an intense high press.

What's the squad like? The Baggies won just five of their 38 Premier League matches under Slaven Bilic and, latterly, Allardyce, and two of their stars - goalkeeper Sam Johnstone and midfielder Matheus Pereira - look to be heading for the exit.

Midfielder Alex Mowatt has followed Ismael to The Hawthorns on a free transfer, and centre-back Matt Clarke has joined on loan from Brighton.

Up front, Karlan Grant and Callum Robinson carry the striking responsibility, but Matt Phillips and Grady Diangana will be expected to chip in with goals if Pereira departs.

How will they fare?

Rob Gurney, BBC Radio WM

It's always a little foolish to read too much into pre-season, but Albion's 4-0 win at local rivals Birmingham was impressive, and means they haven't conceded in their four senior friendlies.

The 3-4-3 system Ismael favours gives them solidity and, going forward, fluidity in pretty much equal measure.

Dara O'Shea, Kyle Bartley and loan signing Clarke looked a fairly formidable combination, with Semi Ajayi as another option in central defence.

Darnell Furlong and Conor Townsend showed plenty of mobility in the wide areas, while Jake Livermore's pitch coverage, alongside Alex Mowatt, was outstanding.

That's going to be crucial if Ismael's 'Swarm Ball', to unsettle the opposition while they're in possession, is to succeed.

The front three of Diangana, Robinson and Grant showed their awareness, and an ability to interchange will prove a handful for most Championship defences.

But it's clear Albion still need squad options to cover injuries and suspensions as the season progresses, which is why the Johnstone and Pereira sales need concluding sooner rather than later.

To this observer, Pereira's unhelpful misinterpretation of Ismael's "committed" remark at the weekend means relations will now inevitably be strained, making his departure before the issue becomes too much of a distraction critical.

The problem is Saudi club Al-Hilal offered nowhere near enough to persuade Albion to part with the Brazilian and his stance on social media may well scare other potential suitors off.

Compiled by Rob Stevens.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/57902434
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:19:36 AM
Hartlepool launch legal action against Fulham as they seek compensation for a former youth-team player who the Cottagers refused to sign only to then offer him a two-year deal once he had been let go by the League Two club

    Defender Luca Murphy joined Hartlepool United at the age of nine
    Hartlepool and Fulham agreed a fee for the player in January 201
    Following this Murphy was given permission to spend a period at Fulham
    Cottagers then pulled out of the transfer and the player returned to Hartlepool
    Murphy then failed to attend training sessions and college education classes
    His contract was terminated and he then signed for Fulham just 11 days later 

Hartlepool United are taking legal action against Fulham as they seek compensation for a former youth-team player.

The League Two club have not received a penny for their part in the development of Luca Murphy, who joined them aged nine.

It was in January 2019, aged 17, that the two clubs agreed a fee for the player, following which Murphy was given permission to spend a period at Fulham.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2021/08/05/09/46313081-9863999-image-m-4_1628151071511.jpg)
Hartlepool United are taking legal action against Fulham over defender Luca Murphy

However, Fulham then pulled out of the transfer and the player returned to Hartlepool.

It is claimed that Murphy - a previously exemplary scholar - then failed on several occasions to attend training sessions and college education classes, leaving the club with no choice but to agree a mutual termination of his contract in March 2019, a matter of weeks following his return from visiting Fulham.

But within just 11 days of that parting he signed for Fulham on a two-year deal and the club, then of the Premier League, refused to compensate Hartlepool. That has remained the case in the two-and-a-half years since.

Now, though, Hartlepool are taking their claim to the EFL's Professional Football Compensation Committee (PFCC).

Raj Singh, Hartlepool chairman, told Sportsmail: 'We have seen the PFCC work with some enormous compensation cases in the Premier League recently, but it's clubs like Hartlepool that really need protecting.

'Otherwise, why would clubs outside of the Championship or Premier League risk investing into youth and academy systems at all?

'With Luca Murphy, he had been at our club since the age of nine and had developed through our system.

'It can't be right that a club like ours invest large amounts into player development over a number of years only to then lose him to another club without any recognition at all.

'It completely goes against the spirit of the game and its development aims, as well as the training compensation framework that was established to protect us all.

'We have done everything we possibly can to resolve the matter club to club, but we have now been left with no choice but to take things forward through formal channels.'

Fulham themselves have previously used the PFCC to gain compensation rising to £4.3million from Liverpool for the transfer of teenager Harvey Elliott in 2019.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9863999/Hartlepool-launch-legal-action-against-Fulham-seek-compensation-former-youth-player.html
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:21:03 AM
Fulham set to seal Matt Grimes deal

Fulham look set to secure a deal to bring Matt Grimes to Craven Cottage this summer.

What's the talk?

That's according to a report by the Daily Mail, who claim that Tony Khan is hoping to finalise the signing of the Swansea City midfielder as soon as he has been given the all-clear after suffering from illness.

It was reported last week that the Cottagers were interested in a move for the former England U21 international, with the Welsh side believed to be demanding a fee in the region of £5m in order to part with the 26-year-old this summer.

However, the report continued by stating that, with only a year remaining on his contract at the Liberty Stadium, the Championship side would likely struggle to receive a fee anywhere near this amount.

Khan masterclass

Khan and his team are making a very strong case for Fulham's transfer business being the best of any club in the second tier of English football this summer, with the director of football having already secured the impressive acquisitions of Liverpool winger Harry Wilson and former Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga, while also appearing close to landing Flamengo striker Rodrigo Muniz.

And, if the co-owner does indeed go on to finalise the signing of Grimes in the coming days, his case for Fulham having done the best summer business would be made even stronger.

Indeed, the £6.3m-rated man highly impressed over his 45 Championship appearances for Swansea last season, scoring two goals, registering three assists and creating three big chances for his teammates, as well as taking an average of one shot and making 0.8 key passes per game.

The £10k-per-week midfielder also made an average of 1.5 interceptions, 2.1 tackles, 1.3 clearances and won 5.3 duels in each league appearance.

These returns saw the man Steve Cooper dubbed an "excellent" player earn an average SofaScore match rating of 7.04, ranking him as the Swans' fifth-best player in the second tier last time out.

As such, the addition of the 26-year-old to a squad that already looks more than capable of securing an immediate return to the Premier League next season would undoubtedly be yet another transfer masterclass of Khan's this summer, with Marco Silva surely buzzing at the way his team is shaping up ahead of the opening fixture of the new campaign.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-fc-transfer-rumours/fulham-transfer-news-tony-khan-swansea-city-marco-silva-matt-grimes-the-championship
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:22:58 AM
The First Five

The wait is finally nearly over. On Sunday our latest charge towards the Premier League begins with a home tie against Neil Warnock's Middlesbrough. And in true Championship fashion, our first month back in the second tier will see us play five league matches in the space of just 20 days before the first international break of the season.

So what can we achieve over those first matches? The target for the club is promotion so it's important that we get off to a good start. Here is a brief look at the first five for Fulham.

8th August- Fulham v Middlesbrough

Last year's finish- 10th

Manager- Neil Warnock

Let's be honest, all Neil Warnock sides are tough to beat. Another well drilled and defensively sound team will be visiting from the North East but it's a real opportunity for us to see how we fair against one of last season's mid-table sides. The first match is always a bit of a mystery, isn't it? It's hard to judge how well any team done over preseason until we see them in action in a competitive fixture. But as we were a Premier League team last season, we will go into this as favourites. Boro don't have an illustrious list of attacking options but be aware of Duncan Watmore who finished last season as top goal scorer. Marcus Tavernier is a solid Championship player who likes to chip in with a goal as well. We also might get to see former Fulham Academy player Djed Spence in action.

14th August – Huddersfield v Fulham

Last year's finish- 20th

Manager- Carlos Corberan

This is a good chance for us to banish the memories of our last trip to Huddersfield back in 2018/19. I still have nightmares about it. It was on a miserable November Monday evening and we lost 1-0 thanks to an own goal. We were absolutely brutal that evening and my trip home on the train knowing that I was starting work at 6am the next morning meant that it was particularly grim. But three seasons on both clubs have been in very different places and really we should be targeting three points here. They do have a decent attacking threat with last seasons top scorer (8 goals) Josh Koroma alongside the likes of Jordan Rhodes, Fraizer Campbell and Danny Ward – all players who can score on their day.

17th August – Millwall v Fulham

Last year's finish- 11th

Manager- Gary Rowett

Then we head to The Den for our first midweek game of the season. Millwall is never an easy place to go and pick up points and they will certainly be targeting an improvement on last season with an eye on the play-offs. Jed Wallace is the man to look out for in terms of goals, but there is some talk about a move for him so we will have to wait and see if he is still around by then. Former Fulham man Scott Malone chipped in with 5 goals last season and we know what he can do down the left. They have also brought in Arsenal youngster Daniel Ballard in defence. And as well as Malone, we also might get to see former Fulham men Shaun Hutchinson and Matt Smith in action.

21th August – Fulham v Hull City

Last year's finish- 1st in League One

Manager- Grant McCann

Our first match against one of last seasons promoted teams is against Hull City. They will be hoping to keep the momentum going after finishing as League One champions. We'll need to be aware of the attacking threat of Josh Magennis and Tom Eaves – anyone else having flashbacks of when he bagged a hattrick last time we faced Hull at the Cottage?

28th August – Fulham v Stoke City

Last year's finish- 14th

Manager- Michael O'Neill

Our final match of August and last one before the first international break is at home to Stoke City. After being close to relegation two seasons ago, Stoke will be hoping to improve further under Michael O'Neill. From his time as Northern Ireland manager, O'Neill proved that he can get players united and playing above themselves. Nick Powell and Tyrese Campbell provided most of the goals last season. Defensively, expect a tight-knit back line giving very few chances away for free.

Let's be honest, with a few days to go until kick-off it's very hard to judge ourselves never mind other teams. What we do know, though, is that if we want to lift the mood around the Cottage after last seasons shambles, we'll need a decent start. Having the fans back will be a boost. Players like Mitrovic in particular really thrives on the emotional that crowds can bring. Last season was terrible. This season can only be better, right?

#COYW



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/08/the-first-five/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: Nick Bateman on August 06, 2021, 12:23:03 AM
Very interesting, good work JC!
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:24:25 AM
Roma Consider Signing Fulham Star

Fulham midfielder Andre Zambo Anguissa has emerged as a midfield target for Serie A giants Roma in the final month of the transfer window.

Arsenal star Granit Xhaka was Roma's top target but he is now expected to sign a new contract with the Gunners.

The Serie A giants have more or less given hope of signing the Swiss midfielder but Jose Mourinho still remains keen to improve his options in the middle of the park this summer.

Roma are considering other options in the market and the club are looking at England to bring in a midfielder.

And according to Italian daily Gazzetta dello Sport, Anguissa is one of the players Roma are tracking at the moment.

The Cameroonian made 36 Premier League appearances but could not stop Fulham from being relegated from the top tier of English football.

Anguissa is not believed to be keen to play in the Championship and is looking for a way out of Fulham.

Roma are considering signing him but they are yet to make a concrete move to land him.

He is still only one of the midfielders Roma are monitoring and a final decision has not been made.



https://insidefutbol.com/2021/08/05/roma-consider-signing-fulham-star/521650/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:25:22 AM
Roma eyeing up move for Anguissa

Roma are considering a move to sign Fulham midfielder Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa on a permanent basis, according to reports from Italy this morning.

Il Messaggero claims that Fulham's Cameroonian midfielder is not keen on playing in the Championship and would welcome an opportunity away from Craven Cottage. Fulham yesterday rejected a loan offer from Valencia and Roma have added Anguissa to a shortlist for new midfielders that also includes Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz, Denis Zakaria, Thomas Delaney and Teun Koopmeiners, according to Gazetta dello Sport.

The Italian sports newspaper claims that Roma would be prepared to pay around £17m for Anguissa, whilst Fulham are holding out for an offer closer to their £21m valuation. Anguissa, who has 68 Fulham appearances in two seasons in London sandwiched between a more successful loan spell at Villarreal, started last Saturday's friendly against Charlton – but getting him off the wage bill permanently would ease the Whites' FFP worries. Luiz remains the Giallorrosi's main target, but Villa are currently uninterested in parting with the Brazilian.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/08/roma-eyeing-up-move-for-anguissa/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:26:53 AM
All the latest Fulham team news ahead of Middlesbrough clash

A cracking looking game takes place at Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon as the Sky Bet Championship gets underway, with Fulham and Middlesbrough going head-to-head down by the River Thames.

Two sides that will have promotion ambitions this campaign, it's a good opportunity for managers Marco Silva and Neil Warnock to see exactly where their sides are in relation to another potential candidate for a spot in the Premier League in 22/23.

For Silva, too, it's a first opportunity to see just how his side is looking in a competitive setting and he'll be eager to see if some of the work they have done in pre-season is already beginning to pay off.

In terms of team news, Fulham are already going to be without Tom Cairney in the middle of the park. The skipper is still carrying an injury from last season and is yet to shake it off, though he remains a Fulham player despite speculation written about him this summer and that alone is a positive.

Also on the treatment table carried over from last season is defender Terence Kongolo, and he'll miss out on the opening weekend too.

In goal, we could see Paulo Gazzaniga make his competitive debut – he featured in the 1-0 friendly win over Charlton last weekend to the expense of Marek Rodak.

In front of him, the likes of Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson could feature at full-back, with Tosin Adarabioyo, Tim Ream and Alfie Mawson all pushing for a centre-half spot.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa remains at Fulham, for now, and could start in midfield whilst youngsters Tyrese Francois and Fabio Carvalho are also both in contention after being used in pre-season.

Aleksandar Mitrovic is set to start up front whilst Neeskens Kebano and Anthony Knockaert are among those in the frame to start out wide.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/all-the-latest-fulham-team-news-ahead-of-middlesbrough-clash/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:27:41 AM
Fulham once again close to signing striker – Club had meeting to sort details on Wednesday

Fulham are back in the lead for the signing of Flamengo striker Rodrigo Muniz, according to the latest reports on all the drama from Brazil.

This week, it had been claimed by the local media that after having their bid for the player accepted, the Whites hadn't sent the documentation in time, and gave a chance to Middlesbrough to get back in the race.

Now according to O Dia, the clubs are communicating again and have been sorting out the final details for the transfer once again.

The outlet explains that the deal was agreed by Alistair Mackinstosh last Friday, with Fulham paying €8m and letting Flamengo have 20% of a future move. The official bid hadn't arrived by Tuesday, and that caused a little annoyance.

With Flamengo showing 'dissatisfaction' with the situation, Muniz's agents moved to hold a new meeting between the clubs on Wednesday. The representatives intermediated the conversation which was used to sort details about the move.

Now the player, who's in Rio de Janeiro, has been told that the agreement is back on and knows the medical can take place after a period of quarantine, since he tested positive for Covid on Saturday.

O Dia hadn't reported the last bid from Middlesbrough and don't even mention that now, making it clear that Fulham continue to lead the race.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-close-signing-striker-club-meeting-sort-details-wednesday/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:29:00 AM
Huddersfield & Millwall Tickets

The Club would like to inform supporters that the Fulham FC Ticket Office are yet to receive the tickets from the respective clubs for our upcoming Sky Bet Championship away matches against Huddersfield Town (Saturday 14th August) & Millwall (Tuesday 17th August).

We anticipate receipt of these tickets early next week, at which point we will then be able to go on sale with these games. Further details will be communicated on fulhamfc.com when they become available.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/august/Huddersfield-Millwall-Tickets/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:29:35 AM
Francois targeting first team spot

A confident Tyrese Francois is aiming to secure a regular spot in Marco Silva's starting line up as Fulham prepare for the start of their Championship season against Middlesbrough on Sunday.

The Australian midfielder has been one of the beneficiaries of Silva's appointment at Craven Cottage as he has impressed the Portuguese head coach during pre-season and starred into last weekend's final friendly against Charlton Athletic. Francois told FFCTV:

"It's been really enjoyable. It's been very tough – as it always is. It is good to get some games for the first team in the friendlies and build on the season. I've been with the first team before, but it's definitely different this season. I'm older, more confident and hoping to get some game time.

He rather matter-of-factly described his beautiful ball that played in Fabio Carvalho for the only goal of the game against the Addicks:

"I've played with Fabio for the last two or three seasons now so I know he makes that run – and the run's almost forced me to play that ball. Happily, he finished off it, so it was a nice goal. We're quite close off the pitch, that chemistry for sure really helps, no doubt."

Francois was well of praise for Fulham's new management team and feels positive about the campaign to come.

"It's been really enjoyable. They trust me. They've changed the way we play – the season should be enjoyable for everyone and hopefully we can reach the end goal, which is get promoted. I'm really excited. Personally, I just want to get as many games under my belt as possible. An injury-free season where I can play loads of football this season."

The young midfielder knows not to underestimate

They will be a tough side. They were last season, they always are. They have a very experienced manager – it will be a tough game, but I'm sure we can do it. Every game this season, if we play our game – the quality we have in the dressing room, I think we'll overcome most teams.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/08/francois-targeting-first-team-spot/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:30:56 AM
Russell Martin speaks out on Matt Grimes' Swansea City future amid Fulham transfer saga

New Swansea City head coach Russell Martin has insisted that Matt Grimes is committed to the club whilst he's still under contract amid strong suggestions that he is close to securing a transfer away from the Liberty Stadium.

Martin arrived from MK Dons this week to replace Steve Cooper, who resigned as head coach following a disagreement in which the direction the club was heading in.

One of the issues was the fact that Grimes could not be tied down to a longer deal and that the 26-year-old seemed set to depart for a transfer fee this summer instead of penning a new contract or running it down next summer.

Rumours soon emerged of Fulham being interested in securing the signature of Swansea's captain, and reports indicated last week that the midfielder was set for a medical at the west London club.

That was delayed because of Grimes contracting COVID-19, but the Daily Mail have suggested that the transfer is still set to be completed once he has recovered from the virus.

Whilst he refused to shed any light on the current transfer situation, Martin talked up the Swans skipper despite the fact he could be exiting the club very soon.

He's a fantastic player," Martin said of Grimes, per WalesOnline.

"If it comes to a point where Matt has left, it's because the deal is right for the football club.

"I've got a guy – whilst he's here – he's fully committed. He loves it here and he really enjoys playing for the football club."

The Verdict

Martin's words definitely read as though something is going to happen in the very near future, however until it's all signed and sealed Grimes remains a Swansea player.

Despite that and Martin stating that the 26-year-old is committed though, it would be a real shock if he's selected for action when they travel up to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.

It's been a good six years at the Liberty Stadium for Grimes since he secured a switch from Exeter City, even though there has been a number of loan spells away from the club, but he's developed into a top Championship midfielder and Fulham will no doubt be gaining a top asset to add to their already stacked midfield when the deal inevitably goes through.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/russell-martin-speaks-out-on-matt-grimes-swansea-city-future-amid-fulham-transfer-saga/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:32:37 AM
The Sean Davis Column

I've just about got over the Euros now so it's nice to have some more football to look forward to so soon. I always look forward to the first game of the season. There's so much excitement, so much expectation. Us fans can't wait and the players will be the same. They've got a full pre-season under their belts now, so they'll be absolutely raring to go.

Obviously we want a fast start, but you always need patience when a new manager comes in as it will naturally take time for players to get used to his methods and how he wants them to play. There will always be a bedding in period but I see no reason why our boys won't quickly take on board what Marco Silva wants them to do, and hit the ground running.

I think Marco and Fulham is a very good match. I'm excited to see him lead us. He's got good pedigree, he's managed at the highest level, and he tries to play football the right way. And let's not forget that he's got Luis Boa Morte there with him as well. Boa knows the Championship, he's played in it, he's won it, and that experience is invaluable. He and Marco have known each other for a long time, and worked together at Everton, so they've got a good relationship. Boa knows the Club inside out, he knows what it means to wear the white shirt, and that can only help Marco.

I haven't had a chance to catch up with Boa since he came back, what with Covid and pre-season, but I'm looking forward to seeing him at a game soon. I wish him every success, and he would deserve it. He's a top guy and a very hard-working individual, so I've got a lot of time for Boa.

Boro up first means a tough game with Neil Warnock in charge, as his sides are always hard to beat. You know they're going to fight tooth and nail to get a result, but I'm sure we'll take the game to them. The first game of the season can be tricky, but our players need to concentrate on implementing what the manager wants. I'm sure everyone will know their own job and that we'll be playing an attractive style of football. Hopefully that leads to a good performance and the right result.

It's going to be fantastic to have fans back properly on Sunday. Fans are what make football. I've found watching games in empty stadiums quite difficult actually – they feel like training matches. Some teams excelled without their supporters there but I think we'll be a side that gets a real boost from having a full Craven Cottage again.

The two new boys are excellent signings. Paulo Gazzaniga got some big match experience at Spurs and has played for Argentina, so that's some real strong competition for Marek Rodák in the goalkeeping department now. And Harry Wilson is proven quality. His free-kicks are fantastic, and that could be huge for us because set-pieces are essential in the Championship. It's a lovely left foot he's got, he can feed a pass and he scores a lot of goals. That's important, because we'll need our midfielders and wingers to help the strikers out.

I think automatic promotion is definitely attainable this season. We've got a lot of players who are experienced in this league. It's not like when we first got relegated in 2014 when we played Ipswich Town first game and only had two players who had featured in the Championship before. That experience, mixed with the young players we're bringing through, along with the new signings, I think means we're in a strong position to have a good campaign. Marco is a Premier League manager, and he'll certainly be wanting to make sure he is one again by leading Fulham to promotion.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/august/The-Sean-Davis-Column/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:33:59 AM
Fulham dealt blow in Rodrigo Muniz pursuit

Fulham have been dealt a major blow in their bid to bring Rodrigo Muniz to Craven Cottage this summer.

What's the talk?

That's according to a report by Brazilian media outlet Coluna do Fla, who claim that, despite having agreed an €8m (£6.8m) fee for the Flamengo centre-forward, Fulham could now be set to miss out on the signing of the 20-year-old as they failed to submit a formal offer to the Brazilian side in order to confirm the deal.

The report goes on to state that this has left the Flamengo hierarchy annoyed, and could well see the possibility of a move to Middlesbrough back on the cards for the youngster, however, the report concludes by claiming that it is important to note that Muniz's preferred destination is Fulham.

Nightmare for Khan

While the mess surrounding the transfer of Muniz appears to be of Tony Khan's own doing, if the report from Brazil is to be believed, it nevertheless represents something of a nightmare for the Cottagers director of football.

Indeed, it is clear that the west London club are interested in the 20-year-old, or else they would not have spent time negotiating with both Flamengo and the player's agents, as well as agreeing a fee for the transfer of the Brazilian.

However, if Khan's apparent sloppiness eventually leads to Fulham missing out on the striker, and he goes on to join Middlesbrough instead, it would undoubtedly be a major blow for the co-owner.

Indeed, Muniz would appear to be a player with a significant amount of potential, with the £2.7m-rated man bagging three goals, registering one assist and creating two big chances over his nine Serie A appearances for Flamengo so far this term, as well as making an average of 0.6 key passes and taking 2.4 shots per game.

These returns have seen the 20-year-old earn an average SofaScore match rating of 7.16, ranking him as the club's joint eighth-best player in the Brazilian top flight.

As such, the forward would very much appear to make a fantastic addition to Marco Silva's side, not only for next season but for many more to come in the future, and missing out on his signing would more than likely leave a great portion of the Craven Cottage faithful gutted.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-fc-transfer-rumours/fulham-transfer-news-marco-silva-tony-khan-rodrigo-muniz-flamengo-the-championship
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:34:27 AM
Silva: We're all set for big Boro test

Marco Silva says he couldn't have picked a better test with which to assess Fulham's Championship credentials than taking on Middlesbrough in the first match of the season.

The Portuguese head coach is a huge admirer of Boro boss Neil Warnock, whom he beat twice when in charge of Everton, and knows that the Whites will need to be at their best to prevail in their first league fixture. Silva told FFCTV he wouldn't be underestimating Sunday's opponents:

"A very good team, a really experienced coach who knows this competition well and it will be a tough test against a very strong side. We respect Middlesbrough, the quality they have, they want to fight for the top positions in the table as well. We are ready to compete, to put on the pitch the things we have been working on so far. We will have the commitment, the attitude, the desire and the attitude to win a football match.

"If you can choose to start at home or away, we would choose to start at home with our stadium full because it will be one of the keys for us to be stronger in the season. I think it is the best way to start at home against a strong side and a good test for us.

Silva said Fulham are likely to be without some key personnel, including skipper Tom Cairney and Terence Kongolo for the opening weeks of the season, but believes his squad has demonstrated that they are strong enough to still deliver consistent performances.

"We had some issues during the pre season and some players didn't participate enough. I'm a hundred per cent sure that in three or four weeks we will be different and stronger as a team because we'll have all the squad ready and the solutions for me will be different. The work the players have done shows that I can trust in all for them – because they have the quality, they are really committed to our challenge – and we will be ready."

The Fulham boss shared his excitement with the big kick off just around the corner.

It's always exciting moments at the start. You feel that the competition has [stepped up] in the training sessions. We will start our long journey next Sunday. All of us have the desire to start in the right way – our opponent wans the same. Let's see what team will be stronger when we start the game. Of course, we want it to be ourselves and we will do our best to achieve the three points.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/08/silva-were-all-set-for-big-boro-test/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:36:34 AM
Transfer News: Everton interested in Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa

Everton are interested in Fulham midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa but face competition from Valencia for his services.

According to Italian publication TuttoMercatoWeb, Premier League side, Everton have thrown their name into the hat for Fulham midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa.

The Cameroonian joined the Cottagers from Marseille in 2018, making 63 appearances for them since. The 25-year-old spent the 2019/20 campaign on loan at Villarreal as Fulham won promotion to the Premier League. He returned to Craven Cottage for the 2020/21 campaign and was a regular fixture in their league games, missing just two all season.

While his performances for Fulham paled in comparison to what he showed at Villarreal, he was still amongst Scott Parker's best performers. Ultimately it was not enough, and they were relegated to the Championship. The player, however, could return to the top flight provided Everton have their way.

The Toffees, now managed by Rafael Benitez, have entered the race for the player and are ready to challenge Valencia for his signature. The Spanish giants have already made a move for the midfielder but have been rebuffed by Fulham. Having experienced the taste of top-flight football, the 25-year-old may not be keen to take a step down in the upcoming campaign and could be on the move this summer.

Former Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti was an admirer of the player and was linked with him earlier this summer. The Italian manager may not be in charge anymore, but the club remains keen on landing him.  A defensive midfielder, he would be an upgrade over Toffees star Andre Gomes. Not only is he more athletic and a better offensive contributor than the Portuguese, but also a force to contend with in the air.

He has also put up better numbers than other Toffees midfielders, namely, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Allan and Tom Davies. This is especially true when it comes to the ability in the air.

His presence in the middle of the park could help Everton recover possession and stop the opposition from winning aerial balls. He is athletic, good in the air, and with the ball at his feet. Add to it his ability to play a through pass and bringing the ball out from the back, he could help connect the attack to the defence, adding something new to the Everton midfield.

Anguissa is valued at €25 million and could prove to be an excellent under-the-radar signing who is effective on the field. While he may have been with Fulham for the last three years, he has prior top-flight experience with Marseille, not to mention the impressive solo season on loan at Villarreal. He outperformed veteran midfielder Vincent Iborra at El Madrigal and showed the ability to thrive in a side capable of competing in Europe.

If his numbers in a struggling Fulham side are impressive, surrounding himself with better players at Everton will help him develop further. Benitez has managed some of the best midfielders in the world during his long and storied managerial career. Whether Anguissa will join the list of those who the Spaniard helped improve remains to be seen.



http://www.thehardtackle.com/news/2021/08/05/transfer-news-everton-interested-in-andre-frank-zambo-anguissa/
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff - 06/08/21...
Post by: WhiteJC on August 06, 2021, 12:37:07 AM
Everton join Anguissa race

Everton are mulling a summer move for Fulham midfielder Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, according to reports.

The Cameroon midfielder is apparently not keen on plying his trade in the Championship this season, having previously been loaned to Villarreal when the Whites dropped out of the top flight before. Fulham have already rejected a loan bid from Valencia – that is understood not to have included a loan fee – and Serie A side Roma were credited with a strong interest in the 25 year-old in Italian press reports this morning.

Tuttomercatoweb claims that the Toffees are keen to bring Anguissa to Merseyside. Carlo Ancelotti is understood to be a keen admirer of the former Marseilles midfielder and Everton have retained the interest after the appointment of Rafa Benitez, who is keen to add to his options in the centre of the park. Fulham are believed to sell Anguissa if a suitor is willing to meet their £21m valuation.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/08/everton-join-anguissa-race/