Friends of Fulham

Jones The Man In The Middle For Derby's Friday Night Clash With Fulham

Robert Jones has been appointed as the Match Referee for Derby County's Sky Bet Championship fixture at home to Fulham on Friday night (8pm kick-off).

Jones has overseen 21 games so far this season in all competitions, showing 69 yellow cards and one red card.

His last Derby match was the 2-0 home win over Barnsley at the start of March.

The Premier League official also took charge of the Rams' 2-1 loss at Barnsley back in November.

Jones will be assisted by Richard Westand Scott Ledger on the lines, whilst Craig Hicks has been appointed as the fourth official.



https://www.dcfc.co.uk/news/2022/04/jones-the-man-in-the-middle-for-derbys-friday-night-clash-with-fulham

Fulham to be backed heavily in the transfer market this summer

Fulham boss Marco Silva will be backed heavily in the transfer market by the club's owners this summer, according to a report by 90min.

Fulham are on the brink of returning to the Premier League and it is expected to be a busy next few months for the London club.

The Cottagers are eager to ensure that they get their recruitment right this time around after their relegation last year.

90min claim they will make a go of it in the next transfer window in preparation for the next campaign.

Fulham to be busy

Fulham are bringing in Manor Solomon from Shakhtar Donetsk to boost their attacking options and he is poised to be the first of many new arrivals.

Losing Fabio Carvalho to Liverpool is a blow for the Cottagers but they will be hoping their pending new arrival can step into his shoes.

Silva was brought in last summer as the man to guide to promotion from the second tier at the first time of asking and the former Hull City, Watford and Everton manager is ever so close to achieving that target now.

Fulham are 10 point clear at the top of the table with just six games left and are 14 points above 3rd place Huddersfield Town having played a match less.

They are back in action tomorrow afternoon against relegation-threatened Derby County away from home before taking on Preston North End at home next Monday.

The London outfit are nearly there now and can start thinking about the summer.



https://the72.co.uk/270330/fulham-to-be-back-heavily-in-the-transfer-market-this-summer/

Manor Solomon, Fulham and Israel's Football Revolution

Manor Solomon has not had the most settled season of his professional career, in and out of the starting line-ups at one of Ukraine's premier clubs – Shakhtar Donetsk – before having to flee the Ukraine after Russian forces invaded the country.

His journey from Kyiv – where Shakhtar and their players have been based since Russia's initial invasion of the Donbas in 2014 – to Poland, and finally back to Israel was keenly followed by many in his homeland.

He was initially reassured that he and his teammates would be safe as recently as February when the club returned from a pre-season tour of Turkey, his representatives saying:

"Manor will return to Kiev together with his club, he is in a quiet area and Shakhtar has given us assurances. He is focusing on soccer. That quiet was broken in the early morning when Solomon woke up to blasts going off all over the Ukrainian capital."

A 15-hour car journey to the border, followed by a 10-hour wait alongside tens of thousands of hours trying to escape the country eventually saw Solomon cross into Poland, before flying back to Israel.

This dramatic escape appears to be the bookend of Solomon's Ukrainian adventure. There is widespread belief that he will be joining Fulham, a side on the cusp of returning to the Premier League for the third time in as many attempts.

For those unfamiliar with Manor Solomon, he is currently being described as a replacement for Fabio Carvalho, another young talent seemingly on the move this summer, following in the footsteps of Harvey Elliott by joining Liverpool when his contract expires. However, during his time at Shakhtar he's mainly been used as a left winger, and is much more likely to provide competition for Neeskens Kebano, who has experienced his best season in a Fulham shirt.

Solomon has recorded a goal or assist every other game this season (0.52 per 90, as per FBRef), while Kebano has slightly edged him with 0.56 (FBRef). Arguably the Ukrainian Premier League is of a slightly higher quality than the English Championship, but they've both been playing in dominant sides within those setups. The main difference is playing time, with Kebano sustaining that attacking output over nearly 1600 minutes this campaign. In contrast, Solomon has only started half the matches he's appeared in during 2021/22. This drop-off in playing time is one of the reasons the Israeli has gone from being linked with Arsenal just over a year ago, to potentially joining a newly-promoted side instead.

Solomon does fit the Kebano mould when looking at some of his key attributes. He has plenty of flair, and enjoys driving at opposition full-backs, and his low centre of gravity makes him hard to stop as an effective dribbler. Solomon is much more right-footed than Kebano and is much more likely to drive inside, whereas Kebano can get to the byline and deliver crosses for Aleksandr Mitrović. He does still need more minutes under his belt to continue improving, something that won't have been helped by the interruption to this season.

It's unlikely Marco Silva will want to completely revolutionise Fulham tactically when they go up, and so this might play into the thinking that Solomon might operate more centrally, a role he primarily plays when he links up with Israel's national team. But his decision making still needs work, something that Carvalho demonstrates an exception ability to do at Fulham, especially for someone his age. But he's imperious on the counter-attack as a quick, direct footballer, and that fast transition might be an extra weapon in Silva's armoury against better sides, given how patient his side can be in the Championship as the dominant force in the division.

ISRAEL'S FUTURE
In the latest international break, Manor Solomon was the youngest member of the senior squad at 22, with only a quarter of the players selected under the age of 25. However, this is not because there's a lack of talent coming through Israel's ranks. Instead, the youth sides were allowed to stick together as they push the traditional powerhouses to qualify for their respective competitions. The under-19s did exactly that, topping their Elite Round group to qualify for the European Championship for only the second time. The under-21s stumbled, drawing with Poland and losing to Germany, but still occupy a play-off spot with two games to go to qualify for their respective Euros having been one of the surprise packages in qualifying so far. They've already beaten Poland away from home in this campaign, done the double over previous hosts Hungary and were minutes away from beating Germany in their first meeting when both sides had a 100% record.

The under-21 side is nearly all still based in Israel, however, these performances would have turned some heads, and there is a player who has created a blueprint for moving to the next level at a young age; Celtic's Liel Abada.

Abada was 19 when he left Maccabi Petah Tikva last summer, a young winger from a mid-table Israeli club joining Scottish giants Celtic. A move that for many would have been overwhelming, and the expectation would have been for Abada to need some bedding in time before making an impact on the first team. But 17 goal involvements in 32 league appearances in his debut season so far for the Bhoys has immediately made him one of the brightest prospects in the league, and it would be no surprise if bids from abroad offered Celtic the chance to make a serious profit after only twelve months in Scotland.

It would not be a surprise to see foreign clubs look towards Hapoel Tel Aviv pair Doron Leidner ('02, LB) and Osher Davida ('01, RW), while Or Blorian (Maccabi Petah Tikva, '00, CB), Gil Cohen (FC Ashdod, '00, CB), Omri Gandelman (Maccabi Netanya, '00, DM) and Ido Shahar (Maccabi Petah Tikva – on loan from Maccabi Tel Aviv, '01, CM) have all had strong campaigns for the under-21 national team.

It feels like an age since Yossi Benayoun, Tal Ben Haim and Eyal Berkovic introduced a generation of English football fans to talents from Israel, but Manor Solomon could be the man to lead the next group of his compatriots to these shores.



https://fromthehalfwayline.com/2022/04/14/manor-solomon-fulham-and-israels-football-revolution/

"Could be a superb signing" – Fulham eye transfer move for Chelsea player: The verdict

This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Fulham have been credited with an interest in Chelsea defender Levi Colwill, as per gianlucadimarzio.com.

The report states that the Cottagers will face Premier League competition from the likes of Everton, Leicester City and Southampton for the young defender's services.

Huddersfield Town are also reportedly in the running, with Colwill currently enjoying an excellent temporary spell with the Terriers, however, the Championship outfit's chances of securing his signature once again revolve around them winning promotion.

The 19-year-old has featured 26 times for Carlos Corberan's side this season, proving to be an excellent addition in the summer.

Three of our writers here at FLW have shared their thoughts regarding Fulham's interest in the highly-rated defender...

Adam Jones

He's only going to get better, so this would be a very good signing for the Cottagers.

Considering his lack of experience in the top flight, it can be argued that he isn't the right signing at this present stage for a side who want to establish themselves as a top-tier force for years to come.

However, Colwill will definitely become a top-flight asset in the coming years and this is why the Cottagers should be prepared to make this investment.

Standing out in the Championship, there's no reason why he may not be able to take the step up now and at just 19, Marco Silva's side could potentially sell him on for a lot more than they would pay for him this summer.

Alfie Burns

Colwill could be a superb signing.

The way the Chelsea loanee has taken to playing at the top end of the Championship this season has been superb and, naturally, his parent club are going to want to take a look at what he can do in the Premier League next season.

Huddersfield, should they win promotion through the play-offs, will probably be in the driving seat to secure another agreement. However, that's not guaranteed, which opens the door for a club like Fulham.

Marco Silva's side should secure promotion over Easter and they can already start putting in he groundwork for summer signings whilst others focus on the play-offs.

Colwill would be a good fit for them given the ageing pool of a couple of their centre-back options heading back into the top-flight.

The 19-year-old is a progressive, ball-playing centre-back, who also has a good physical presence.

He could be great to slot in alongside Tosin Adarabioyo for a season in the Fulham defence.

Simmey Hannifin-Donaldson

Levi Colwill has impressed on loan at Huddersfield Town this campaign and if recent reports are to be believed, there is plenty of interest in the 19 year old heading into the summer.

It is only a matter of time until Fulham's Premier League promotion is confirmed and so it is natural they are looking at ways to improve their squad ahead of the summer.

Colwill would be a good signing for the Cottagers too. With Tim Ream's contract up in the summer and reported interest in Tosin Adarabioyo, there appears to be the need for at least one centre half at Craven Cottage.

Colwill is obviously unproven at Premier League level, but this could be a smart signing by Fulham because the 19 year old, if not ready for the step up to the top flight immediately, will no doubt be ready in the future.

It could be a smart investment from the Cottagers, in that sense.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/could-be-a-superb-signing-fulham-eye-transfer-move-for-chelsea-player-the-verdict/

'Move to Fulham': Chairman claims Silva offered £15m for exciting forward

Fulham will Shakhtar Donetsk winger Manor Solomon for £10 million less than the few they were willing to pay during the January transfer window, the winger's former Maccabi Petah Tikva chairman tells One.

We're not even cracking open our Easter Eggs yet but Fulham are already on the verge of completing their first signing of the summer. Fail to prepare, prepare to fail after all.

Solomon, a one-time Manchester City target who earned comparisons with Eden Hazard after scoring twice against Real Madrid in the Champions League a couple of years ago, will fill a Fabio Carvalho-shaped hole in Marco Silva's frontline at Craven Cottage.

The 22-year-old is set to sign a £25,000-a-week contract until 2027. And it is understood that Fulham will pay just £5 million, with Israeli publication One claiming that the Championship leaders have agreed a knock-down fee after Shakhtar slashed Solomon's price-tag following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Fulham's gain, however, with be Petah Tikvah's loss. Financially speaking, anyway.

Fabio Carvalho's replacement

Solomon started his career at the Israel giants before moving to Shakhtar in 2019. And a £5 million move to Craven Cottage – rather than a £15 million one – means Petah Tikvah will miss out on a substantial cash windfall via a sell-on clause in Solomon's contract.

"Maccabi Petah Tikva will lose over 1.5 million euros from (Solomon's) move to Fulham," says chairman Avi Luzon. 

"In January, Shakhtar had an offer from Fulham for 18 million euros (£15 million). 

"If they had sold him for that amount in January, and not as Fulham would pay now, then we would have had over a million and a half euros. Fulham benefited, took advantage of the situation in Ukraine."

Preparing for life in the Premier League for the third time in the last four years, Fulham will once again spend big in the summer with Solomon the first of many new faces.

The Cottagers also want Internacional winger Caio Vidal and former West Ham youngster Josh Cullen. Alphonse Areola could also make a return to West London.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2022/04/14/move-to-fulham-chairman-claims-silva-offered-15m-for-exciting-forward/

Should Fulham re-ignite their transfer interest in Blackpool's Josh Bowler in the summer?

It's not confirmed quite yet but Fulham will be preparing for life in the Premier League this summer.

The west London club are on course to bounce back up to the top flight at the first time of asking and claim the Championship title en route.

That should give them some more cash to spend in the summer window, which may see them return to some former targets.

Blackpool winger Josh Bowler is on that list as TEAMtalk reported in January that they were battling Nottingham Forest in the race for the winger – thought to be valued at around £1.5 million at the time.

The 23-year-old is out of contract this summer but his club do have a 12-month option and will surely trigger it.

Even so, it looks like a good window to sign the winger but it's not a move that should be high up on Fulham's list of priorities.

Bowler has shown his quality since leaving Everton to move to Bloomfield Road in the summer – scoring eight times and providing three assists – and he looks like a player with all the raw attributes to have a bright future ahead but it just doesn't seem the right time to move to Craven Cottage.

Fulham's main aim in the summer needs to be signing players that can help them stay in the Premier League and on the basis of one impressive Championship season, it's hard to say that the winger is ready to be that just yet.

You wouldn't bet against him reaching the top flight in the future but the second tier seems the right place for him at the moment.

It's true that Fabio Carvalho is set to join Liverpool but, according to Daily Mail, the Whites have already lined up a replacement in Shakhtar Donetsk winger Manor Solomon and are close to agreeing a deal for him.

Marco Silva is hardly short of attacking talent either with the likes of Harry Wilson, Bobby De Cordova Reid, and Neeskens Kebano in the squad.

As a long-term signing that could be loaned away for next season, Bowler could make sense as a summer target but that should not be their priority in the upcoming window.

It seems a little too early for him to make the step up to the Premier League and that's exactly where Fulham are headed.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/should-fulham-re-ignite-their-transfer-interest-in-blackpools-josh-bowler-in-the-summer/

Who is Manor Solomon?
Jack Stroudley takes a look at our widely-reported first summer signing.

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It's normally quite rare to have concrete transfer news reported in April, but that is the situation we currently find ourselves in. John Percy was the first to report on Israeli winger Manor Solomon's deal to Fulham being near completion, this news has now speculated around differing media sources, including Israeli news outlet Ynet.

The latter source has claimed that Solomon will sign a long-term deal in the range of four-to-five years and will earn around £25,000 a week, with Fulham paying a fee of around £7 million. Marco Silva has allegedly been a prominent figure in the negotiations of this deal. I figured I would head online and delve into the Israeli international more as a player to answer the question. Who is Manor Solomon?

The fact file
Solomon is aged 22 and spent the majority of his childhood in the Maccabi Petah Tikva academy from 2008 to 2016 before making his professional debut in November 2016 during a 2-1 defeat to Hapoel Haifa. Solomon continued to play regular football for the side in Israel's top division and scored eight times during his 68 appearances for the club. As well as this, he continued to develop through the Israeli national team ranks from U16 all the way up to the first team where he made his debut in a 1-0 defeat to Albania in July 2018.

Solomon's progression at Maccabi Petah Tikya saw him move to Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk going for £5.4 million, according to Transfermarkt. Solomon has featured regularly for Shakhtar since his arrival making his debut in a 2-0 victory over FK Oleksandriya. Solomon impressed for both club and country and particularly shone in the UEFA Champions League. He got his first Champions League goal in a 2-1 victory over Atalanta making him the youngest Israeli to ever score in the Champions League.

He has continued this vein of form in the competition picking up goals against the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid, resulting in interest from clubs like Manchester City and Arsenal. While playing for Shakhtar Donetsk, the 22-year-old has scored 16 goals in 70 games and has been involved in winning two league titles, one cup and one super cup. All of this has led to Marco Silva's interest and the signing which now seems imminent.

Where will he play?
I won't sit here and claim to be the biggest expert on Ukrainian football! Fortunately, in a world of Twitter and various other websites you're able to get a pretty good idea of a player and how he would benefit Fulham. Firstly, when the news broke yesterday 'International Football Consultant' Raphael Gellar took to twitter to see if any Fulham fans had questions in regards to the Israeli international. As you can imagine, he got quite a large number of responses, of which I have sifted through and compiled a list of the key points Gellar makes about Manor Solomon.

    He's a dynamic and fantastic dribbler
    He's small in size but very strong
    Excellent football IQ and excellent movement off the ball
    He could be the best dribbler Israel has ever had
    He needs to improve his G/A tally but the goals he does score are fantastic
    He's a big-time player
    For £7-8 million he is the best you can get in the EPL market.

Looking at all of the above it's clear that Fulham fans would have every right to get excited about this potential signing, but where would he play? Several media outlets have claimed that Manor Solomon will be a direct replacement for Fabio Carvalho in the number 10 position. However, when looking into where he plays on the pitch this is simply not true.

This season alone, Solomon has played 24 of his 26 games for Shakhtar Donetsk on the left wing with only one feature in that number 10 role. Last season Solomon started 23 times on the left wing and only twice in the middle.

Fulhamish's very own football encyclopaedia Jack Collins took to twitter to state that 'Solomon would come in to play LW rather than in the 10 in a Marco Silva side' and I can't help but agree. This to me seems like we would be getting a Neeskens Kebano replacement for a cut throat price (according to Transfermarkt he is worth £16.2 million.)

Yes or no?
To conclude, do I think Manor Solomon would be a good signing for Fulham? Yes! While we score goals at will this season, I fear that next season some of the creativity we get from that left hand side may be nullified due to the increased quality in defenders we would come up against and a signing like Manor Solomon seems like the type of player we should be approaching. The type of player who could grab the game by the scruff of the neck and create something out of nothing for himself or other attacking options like Mitrovic.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2022-04-14-who-is-manor-solomon/

Nottingham Forest and Fulham handed potential boost in pursuit of £5m Championship ace

Blackpool could look to offload Josh Bowler this summer if he doesn't pen a long-term contract with the club.

Bowler sees his Blackpool contract expire at the end of the season. But the Seasiders have the option of extending his stay by a further year and they're expected to trigger that option, with interest emerging from the likes of Nottingham Forest, Fulham, Bournemouth and more.

This season, Bowler has emerged as one of the Championship's best wide players – signed on a free last summer, the former Everton man has scored seven and assisted three in his 40 league appearances for Neil Critchley's side so far this season.

Reports emerged earlier in the month backing Nottingham Forest to reignite their interest in Bowler after failing to sign the Englishman in January.

Though Steve Cooper's side faces competition from a number of Premier League teams, as well as Fulham and Bournemouth, with Blackpool supposedly slapping a £5million price tag on the player.

Now though, LancsLive reports John McDougall has shared the latest on Bowler's situation at Blackpool, suggesting that the club might sell him in the summer if he doesn't pen a long-term contract with the club.

He writes:

"Bowler would be seen as a priority to sign to a longer term deal, but if that does not come to pass, then it would be expected that he could leave if Blackpool are faced with the prospect of him walking away for nothing in the summer of 2023."

Stand-off...

Expect Blackpool to trigger Bowler's one-year option in good time. It'll give them the chance to evaluate the situation and try to tie Bowler down to a new, long-term contract at the club.

He's a good player and a young one too, so it's understandable why Blackpool would want to do that. But with so much interest in him, and from the Premier League too, it might be understandable why Bowler would want to refuse a long-term offer.

He's been bitten by a premature Premier League move already in his career. Whether he's better placed for a move now remains to be seen, and what his stance on another season with Blackpool would be remains likewise.



https://the72.co.uk/270354/270354/

EFL Awards 2022: Shortlists revealed

Aleksandar Mitrovic, Harry Wilson and Dominic Solanke are in the running to be named Sky Bet Championship Player of the Season at the 2022 EFL Awards.

Taking place on Sunday 24 April, winners will be announced at the star-studded EFL Awards taking place at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane.   

Mitrovic's remarkable 38 goals have fired Fulham to the top of the Championship. The Serbian has been assisted regularly by team-mate and Welsh wizard Wilson who has racked up double figures for goals and assists to lead Fulham's charge for promotion. Leading the line with his speed, strength and intelligence, Bournemouth's Solanke has 24 Championship goals to his name and is also a contender.

In Sky Bet League One, midfielders Scott Twine and Barry Bannan are up against Rotherham United striker Michael Smith for the Sky Bet Player of the Season award. Twine's 15 goals and 12 assist have helped MK Dons' promotion push. The ability and experience of Sheffield Wednesday's Bannan has shone through all season with an array of match-winning performances. Smith has been a consistent top performer for Rotherham United with 18 goals to his name.

In Sky Bet League Two, Forest Green Rovers have two players in contention in Kane Wilson and Matty Stevens, whilst Newport County's goalscoring machine Dominic Telford completes the list. Wilson has combined his dribbling ability and pinpoint crossing to the tune of 13 assists whilst Steven's goals have been a key factor in Forest Green's excellent season. Telford scored 22 goals in 19 games in a wonderful four-month stretch.

The EFL Young Player of the Season Awards will be given out divisionally for the first time to recognise the best young talent in the League. In the Championship, Nottingham Forest duo Brennan Johnson and Djed Spence are up against Fulham's Fabio Carvalho.

In League One, Portsmouth's shot stopper Gavin Bazunu makes the list. Dan Neil of Sunderland and Paddy Lane of Fleetwood Town - who signed in the summer from Hyde United four tiers below the Cod Army - will also be vying for the accolade.

Two defensive players make the shortlist in League Two, Bristol Rovers' Connor Taylor and Shadrach Ogie of Leyton Orient. Newport County's Finn Azaz is also nominated.

The Football Manager Teams of the Season will be announced on the night with a manager and starting XI chosen for each individual division.

Clubs will also be commended for their work off the pitch, with the Your Move Community Club of the Season set to be announced alongside the Community Project of the Season and PFA Player in the Community.

New for 2022 the EFL will also be presenting Diversity and Sustainability Awards alongside the Kin + Carta Family Club of the Season and Supporter of the Season.

The League's two most prestigious awards, the Contribution to League Football and Sir Tom Finney Award, will be given out on the night.

Awarded to recipients who have had an outstanding career and contributed exceptionally to the EFL, previous winners include Kevin Phillips, Rickie Lambert and Joe Thompson.

EFL Awards 2022 shortlist:

Sky Bet Championship Player of the Season
Aleksandar Mitrovic – Fulham
Dominic Solanke – Bournemouth
Harry Wilson – Fulham

Sky Bet League One Player of the Season
Barry Bannan – Sheffield Wednesday
Michael Smith – Rotherham United
Scott Twine – Milton Keynes Dons

Sky Bet League Two Player of the Season
Matty Stevens – Forest Green Rovers
Dominic Telford – Newport County
Kane Wilson – Forest Green Rovers

Championship Young Player of the Season
Fabio Carvalho – Fulham
Brennan Johnson – Nottingham Forest
Djed Spence – Nottingham Forest

League One Young Player of the Season
Gavin Bazunu – Portsmouth
Paddy Lane – Fleetwood Town
Dan Neil – AFC Sunderland

League Two Young Player of the Season
Finn Azaz – Newport County
Shadrach Ogie – Leyton Orient
Connor Taylor – Bristol Rovers

LFE Apprentice of the Season – Championship
Ryan Howley – Coventry City
Jordan James – Birmingham City
Jevon Mills – Hull City

LFE Apprentice of the Season – League One
Freddie Draper – Lincoln City
Ayodeji Elerewe – Charlton Athletic
Michael Williams – Crewe Alexandra

LFE Apprentice of the Season – League Two
Alex Aitken – Stevenage
Junior Tchamadeu – Colchester United
Ethan Brierley – Rochdale

Football Manager Teams of the Season
To be announced on the night

Your Move Community Club of the Season
Middlesborough – North East & Yorkshire
Blackpool - North West
Derby County – Midlands
AFC Wimbledon – London
Plymouth Argyle – South West & Wales
Milton Keynes Dons - South East & East

One overall winner will be announced on the night

Community Project of the Season
Championship – Preston North End
League One – Burton Albion
League Two – Swindon Town

PFA Players in the Community
Championship – Billy Mitchell, Millwall
League One – Ryan Inniss, Charlton Athletic
League Two – Omar Beckles, Leyton Orient

Kin + Carta Family Club of the Season
Ipswich Town
Milton Keynes Dons
Sheffield United

Diversity Award
Blackburn Rovers
Exeter City
Preston North End

Environmental Sustainability Award
To be announced on the night

Supporter of the Season
Mark Crowther – Luton Town
Cath Dyer – Swansea City
Sue Taylor – Burton Albion

Sir Tom Finney Award
To be announced on the night

Contribution to League Football
To be announced on the night

2022 Goal of the Season
To be announced on the night



https://www.efl.com/news/2022/april/efl-awards-2022-shortlists-revealed/

Mitro, Harry & Fab Shortlisted

Aleksandar Mitrović, Harry Wilson and Fabio Carvalho have been shortlisted at the upcoming 2022 EFL Awards.

Mitrović and Wilson are among the nominees for Sky Bet Championship Player of the Season, whereas Carvalho is up for Young Player.

All three have enjoyed prolific seasons, contributing an astonishing 87 goal involvements between them; Mitrović (38G, 7A), Wilson (11G, 16A), Carvalho (8G, 7A).

Mitro and Harry face competition from AFC Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke, while Carvalho finds himself up against Nottingham Forest pair Brennan Johnson and Djed Spence.

The Player and Young Player of the Season will be announced at the awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Sunday 24th April.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/april/14/mitro-harry-fab-shortlisted/

All the early Derby County team news ahead of Fulham clash on Friday

Derby County face yet another crucial clash in their bid for survival on Friday when they host Championship leaders Fulham at Pride Park.

The Rams are running out of games to make their unlikely survival challenge a reality, currently sitting 23rd in the Championship standings – nine points behind Reading and safety.

With just five games to play, every point is absolutely crucial at this stage.

Fulham, their opponents, are having very different fortunes in the league this season.

The Cottagers are well clear at the top of the table and it is surely a case of when they are promoted, and not if, at this stage, with the club 14 points clear of third placed Huddersfield Town.

With all that being said, here is the early Derby County team news facing boss Wayne Rooney ahead of the clash.

Latest team news

We already know that the Rams are set to be without Colin Kazim-Richards for the rest of the season, so he will miss the fixture.

However, it appears, as far as we know at this stage, that Rams boss Wayne Rooney faces no fresh injury concerns after their last match versus Swansea City.

With that being said, Rooney must carefully consider any changes he could make to help his side against Fulham, particularly with two games to play over the weekend.

This may well lead to some rotation in the Derby XI, with the likes of Festy Ebosele, Craig Forsyth, and Jason Knight all pushing for a place in the starting line-up.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/all-the-early-derby-county-team-news-ahead-of-fulham-clash-on-friday/

3 Fulham players who could be loaned out in the summer transfer window

Fulham will be looking to move one step closer to securing an immediate return to the Premier League tomorrow when they face Derby County.

The Cottagers are 14 points clear of Huddersfield Town who currently occupy third-place in the second-tier standings and thus could potentially seal promotion in their upcoming fixtures.

Although Fulham manager Marco Silva is currently able to call upon the services of some classy operators, he may decide to make some significant changes to his squad ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

As well as adding fresh faces to his team in the upcoming window, the 44-year-old could opt to sanction some temporary exits for some of the club's younger players.

Keeping this in mind, we have decided to take a look at three Fulham players who could be loaned out in the summer...

Jay Stansfield
Jay Stansfield has been limited to just two appearances at senior level for Fulham this season due to the presence of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Rodrigo Muniz.

The forward showed glimpses of his talent in the League Cup in August as he scored for the Cottagers in their 1-0 victory over Birmingham City.

Having provided seven direct goal contributions in the Premier League 2 Division 2 for Fulham's Under-23 side during the current campaign, it could be argued that a loan move to a team in a lower division this summer could potentially do wonders for Stansfield's development.

Marlon Fossey
Marlon Fossey was granted a temporary exit from Fulham in the January transfer window as he joined League One side Bolton Wanderers.

Before having his spell curtailed by injury, the defender produced some impressive performances for the Trotters as he provided five assists in 15 league appearances.

Having demonstrated that he is capable of delivering the goods on a consistent basis in the third-tier by averaging a WhoScored match rating of 7.20 at this level, it wouldn't be at all surprising if Fulham opt to loan him out again to a team in this particular division ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

Timmy Abraham
Timmy Abraham was loaned out to Newport County by Fulham during the previous summer transfer window.

During his time in Wales, the forward has ultimately failed to make a positive impression for the Exiles as he has only scored three goals in 17 appearances in all competitions.

Set to return to Fulham in May, the Cottagers may attempt to kick-start the 21-year-old's senior career by sanctioning another loan move for him.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-fulham-players-who-could-be-loaned-out-in-the-summer-transfer-window/

Silva calls for focus as Fulham look to seal promotion

Fulham boss Marco Silva admits last Sunday's shock 3-1 loss at home to Coventry was a reminder to his squad to not get ahead of themselves with promotion all but secured.

Silva's side can book an immediate return to the Premier League with wins at Derby and at home to Preston but the Portuguese said defeat by the Sky Blues was proof that nothing should be taken for granted.

"My players know we don't have just one goal in mind, we have more than one – the main thing is to get promoted, to be champions and finish at the top," Silva said.

"But we have to keep our feet on the ground, not lose focus or concentration. The last game was a good example that we cannot lose one second of focus.

"If you do, what happened last Sunday against Coventry can happen again and we don't want that.

"I am not saying we were not focused on that game, but we made mistakes that are not normal at this level and the level we have been playing at this season.

"We have a big match coming up at Derby and we know what we have to do."

Derby are still nine points from safety, having been docked 21 points earlier in the season.

And Silva, who managed Rams boss Wayne Rooney at Everton, said he has been impressed with the way the former England striker has kept his side competitive despite the financial uncertainty hanging over the club.

"I know how difficult it has been for them. They have shown a togetherness and team spirit which has been fantastic," he said.

"If you take away the fact they lost 21 points they would be more comfortable on the table and having a really good season.

"They play with a lot of courage and have a good mix of young players and experienced older players like Curtis Davies, Tom Lawrence and Ravel Morrison and Wayne is doing a good job and when they are at home they are really hard to play against."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/silva-calls-for-focus-as-fulham-look-to-seal-promotion

'Operation is already planned' – Club have money ready to sign Fulham player, will pay 'in their own time'

Fulham's relegation from the Premier League forced André-Frank Zambo Anguissa to look for a new destination in the summer of 2021.

Towards the end of that window, Napoli took the midfielder on a loan deal with an option to buy. He has impressed for the Serie A side and his fine displays convinced them to retain him beyond this campaign.

The Fulham owned player missed the Naples club's last tie against Fiorentina due to suspension. Luciano Spalletti's side suffered a 3-2 defeat and the loss meant they couldn't climb to the top of the table.

Napoli will take on AS Roma in the next tie and the Cameroon international's return to the lineup could give them a welcome boost. As said in the past, Corriere dello Sport on Thursday again stress the Cottagers will receive €15m if the buying option is exercised.

The report states the 'operation is already planned' as the Serie A side have the funds ready to buy Anguissa in the summer. This will see the Championship side earn €15m in the process.

It's further explained Napoli plan to pay this fee to Fulham 'in their own time', but it will get done.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/operation-is-already-planned-club-have-money-at-the-ready-to-sign-fulham-player-will-pay-in-their-own-time/

Silva seeks Fulham focus

Marco Silva has called for his Fulham side to be fully focused on getting all three points at Derby on Friday night as the Whites look to wrap up promotion to the Premier League.

A shock 3-1 defeat at home to Coventry City last Sunday means Silva's side will need other results to go for them if they are to make mathematically certain of an immediate return to the top flight with a win at Derby tomorrow night, but the Portuguese head coach believes the slip-up against the Sky Blues served as a good reminder that nothing can be taken for granted.

Silva told his pre-match press conference this morning:

"My players know we don't have just one goal in mind, we have more than one – the main thing is to get promoted, to be champions and finish at the top. But we have to keep our feet on the ground, not lose focus or concentration. The last game was a good example that we cannot lose one second of focus.

If you do, what happened last Sunday against Coventry can happen again and we don't want that. I am not saying we were not focused on that game, but we made mistakes that are not normal at this level and the level we have been playing at this season. We have a big match coming up at Derby and we know what we have to do."

Silva knows that the Good Friday trip to Pride Park will be far from straightforward, especially as the Rams have only lost three home league fixtures all season.

"Derby is a really tough side to play, it doesn't matter what position they are. We know why they are in that position, the deduction of points made a big impact on Derby. It's been a really tough season for them. It's really tough when you are doing your job on the pitch but then you look at the table and you're in a really tough position because of the deduction of the points.

But they have shown togetherness and team spirit. If they had the 21 points that were taken from them, they would be really comfortable in the table, they would be having a really good season. hey have a good mix between young lads who are hungry to play football, and experienced players like Curtis, [Tom] Lawrence, [Ravel] Morrison. They play with a lot of courage as well.

Wayne is doing a good job, and when they play at home it's been tough for all the teams they've played so far. They have achieved good results at home and, for sure, it will be a tough game for us. Normally it's a tough place to play because the crowd is always behind them, supporting them, even in this tough period, and it will be tough for us."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/04/silva-seeks-fulham-focus/

The 8 players that will leave Fulham on a free this summer unless contracts are renewed

Edging closer to an immediate return to the Premier League, Fulham will be hoping to secure promotion sooner rather than later and avoid any dramas.

Sitting 10 points above Bournemouth in second place, and 14 points ahead of Huddersfield Town in third, it appears to be a matter of when rather than if.

Here, we take a look at the Fulham players who will leave on a free this summer unless contracts are renewed...

Tim Ream

Tim Ream has started every single game for the Cottagers this season, with the left-footed central defender establishing an excellent partnership with Tosin Adarabioyo.

The 34-year-old has featured 250 times for the Cottagers since his 2015 arrival from Bolton Wanderers, proving to be a consistent and dependable figure within the backline.

Neeskens Kebano

Neeskens Kebano has been an excellent creator of chances this season, with his lightning pace and trickery causing all sorts of chaos for opposing defenders.

The winger has nine goals and six assists for the Whites this season, featuring 35 times in the Championship.

Steven Sessegnon

Steven Sessegnon has featured 14 times for the Whites since his 2017 debut, however, his time at Craven Cottage could come to an end in the summer.

Currently on loan at Plymouth Argyle, the full-back has featured six times for the promotion-chasing Pilgrims.

Tyrese Francois

Tyrse Francois has been restricted has been restricted to two appearances this season, which were the first two games of the campaign.

The central midfielder has since been confined to primarily featuring for the club's U23s, with the Whites possessing an abundance of talent in midfield positions.

Fabri

Fabri finds himself well down in the pecking order when it comes to Fulham's goalkeeping options, and when considering the Cottagers have been linked with a couple of goalkeepers in recent weeks, he is almost certain to depart.

In four years with the Whites, Fabri has featured just twice.

Michael Hector

Michael Hector has been confined to just three Championship starts this season, filling in when Tosin Adarabioyo was suspended.

Given the evident quality he possesses, it will have been a frustrating few months for the central defender.

Hector has featured 39 times in nearly three years with the Championship outfit.

Alfie Mawson

Similarly, Alife Mawson has seen his first-team opportunities severely restricted this season, as a result of the continued excellence of Adarabioyo and Ream.

Mawson did attract some interest in January, and with Fulham set for the Premier League, it will be no surprise to see him agree fresh terms with a Championship club in the summer.

Jean Michael Seri

Playing a large enough role in Fulham's season, Jean Michael Seri has featured 27 times, however, he has seen his game time decrease in more recent weeks.

Arriving in 2018 for a sizeable fee, Seri has not been influential as his £27 million price tag would have suggested.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/the-8-players-that-will-leave-fulham-on-a-free-this-summer-unless-contracts-are-renewed/

Mitrovic and Wilson on player of the season shortlist

Fulham pair Aleksandar Mitrovic and Harry Wilson have been shortlisted for the Championship's player of the season award.

Mitrovic has scored a staggering 38 goals as Marco Silva's side have stormed to the top of the table, whilst Wilson has enjoyed an outstanding first Craven Cottage campaign, contributed eleven goals and sixteen assists since making the move from Liverpool last summer. Bournemouth forward Dominic Solanke completes the set of nominees for the EFL's showpiece award at their end of season ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel on 24 April.

Attacking midfielder Fabio Carvalho, who has scored eight goals and added seven assists, has been nominated for the young player of the year award after a superb season. He will be up against Nottingham Forest's Brenan Johnson and former Fulham full back Djed Spence in the youth category.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/04/mitrovic-and-wilson-on-player-of-the-season-shortlist/

Derby County team news and predicted XI to face Fulham

Derby County are hoping to boost their slim survival chances on Good Friday as they face league leaders Fulham in the late kick-off on Sky Sports.

Everyone knew the task faced by Wayne Rooney and Derby County would be tough due to their 21-point deduction. However, they have fought valiantly to keep them in with a shout of safety, but now, sadly for their fans, they appear to be League One bound.

Rooney's team are nine points off 21st place Reading, with their number of games running out.

The players have battled well against relegation and Rooney will take many positives from this season – they will need all their resilience when they face Premier League-bound Fulham.
Derby County team news

Max Bird is serving the second game of his three-game suspension for a red card received at Preston North End.

Derby County have no new injuries to report, giving Rooney the freedom to make personnel or system changes if he wishes, with Irish stars Jason Knight and Festy Ebosele both named on the bench against Swansea City last time out.

Predicted XI

Allsop (GK)

Byrne

Cashin

Davies

Buchanan

Bielik

Knight

Ebiowei

Lawrence

Ebosele

Morrison

Uphill battle...

Since their point deduction of 21 points last year, Derby County have faced an uphill battle. They have fought well all season, and despite interest in Rooney, he has stayed loyal to the team that gave him the chance to step into management.

These final few games offer Derby County a chance to put on good performances for their fans, who have had the season from hell with the off-field issues.

It will be a tough game for Rooney's men – which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports at 8pm on Friday night.



https://the72.co.uk/270390/derby-county-team-news-and-predicted-xi-to-face-fulham/

Fulham team news and predicted XI to face Derby County

Fulham will be looking to avoid another shock defeat in the league this Good Friday as they face struggling Derby County.

Their defeat against Coventry City on Sunday came as a shock to many people, putting a delay on Fulham's seemingly inevitable return to the Premier League. Marco Silva will be determined to get his back to winning ways to avoid any potential banana skins in their quest to win the Championship this season.

Derby County will offer up a tough task for Fulham. They are a side fighting to keep for their lives in the Championship – though time is running out for Wayne Rooney's men to pull off the impossible.
Fulham team news

The Easter holiday fixtures can lead to managers making squad changes due to the quick turnaround in fixtures they face – Silva will be faced with the same selection dilemmas.

Despite the negative result on Sunday, Fulham came out of the game with no new injuries ahead of the Easter doubleheader, giving the Portuguese boss the freedom to make some changes if he wishes.

Predicted XI

Rodak (GK)

Williams

Hector

Ream

Robinson

Seri

Reed

Wilson

Carvalho

Cordova-Reid

Mitrovic

Champions-elect...

Fulham have been sat comfortably at the top of the table for some time now, and they look likely to claim the title and return to the Premier League next season.

Their upcoming fixtures against Derby County and Preston North End are both important, but their clash on April 23rd against 2nd place Bournemouth will be a mouth-watering game. If results go their way, that game against Bournemouth could be the one that sees them win the title.

However, Silva's men will be fully focused on their clash with the Rams this Friday, which you can watch live on Sky Sports at 20:00.



https://the72.co.uk/270207/fulham-team-news-and-predicted-xi-to-face-derby-county-2/

Harry Wilson finally fulfilling potential three years after magical Derby loan spell

The winger has been a shining light for Fulham since he joined from Liverpool and Friday could not only see the Cottagers edge in on promotion but see Wilson push his old club closer to relegation

Harry Wilson was at a crossroads in his career last summer.

The Welsh winger had just completed a season on loan in the Championship with Cardiff. That was his fifth separate temporary spell away from parent club Liverpool and then aged 24, Wilson had a decision to make. Off the back of an impressive campaign for the Bluebirds, Wilson went with his country to the delayed European Championships although it did not end how he would have liked.

He made three cameos from the bench in the tournament, with his final act seeing him receive a red card in the thumping at the hands of Denmark in the last-16.

There was plenty of speculation over his future but eventually, he ended up cutting ties with Liverpool and moving to the Championship again, this time with freshly-relegated Fulham. They forked out a big fee - reported to be £12m. And it is a decision that has paid off handsomely. Not only are his new employers on the verge of an immediate Premier League return, Wilson is in arguably the best form of his career. He has notched 10 goals in the league and has a whopping 14 assists to his name - the joint-highest tally in the top four divisions.

Those numbers explain why Wilson is one of three players nominated for this season's Championship Player of the Year award, along with Fulham colleague Aleksandar Mitrovic and Bournemouth's Dominic Solanke.

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article26713499.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_GettyImages-1380514992.jpg)
Harry Wilson's superb form for Fulham has seen him shortlisted for the Championship player of the year award, along with teammate Aleksandar Mitrovic (right)

Prior to this season, Wilson's best output had come during one of those aforementioned loan spells away from Liverpool when he spent the 2018-19 term at Derby. Ironically, next up for Wilson's Fulham is a trip to take on the Rams with both sides firmly heading in different directions.

Whilst the Cottagers are destined for the top table, County are heading for League One after a season littered with problems. The reunion with one of his old clubs is sure to stir emotions for Wilson, who played a huge role in Derby's march to the play-off final that season. He scored 16 times as Frank Lampard's men moved within one game of the top flight.

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article26713518.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_GettyImages-1146429262.jpg)
Wilson helped Derby County reach the Championship play-off final during his loan spell in 2018-19

That would prove to be a sliding doors moment for the East Midlands side, with off-field troubles culminating in their current plight. Speaking before the two sides' goalless draw back in November, Wilson spoke of his affection for his old side. "I loved my time there from start to finish," said the 25-year-old. "It finished on a bit of a sour note losing the play-off final but my experiences there, I've got nothing but fond memories.

"The fans, the way they treated me, the support they gave me was unbelievable and the team we had. I made friends for life and people that I still keep in contact with now. I've got nothing but happy memories from that place. To see a club that you feel so strongly for being in the situation they're in, is obviously sad."

With his stock on the rise again, you would not bet against Wilson hammering another nail in his old side's relegation coffin on Friday.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/harry-wilson-fulham-derby-liverpool-26713527

Queens Park Rangers fined £5,000 after Fulham loss


Queens Park Rangers have been fined £5,000 and assistant boss John Eustace £3,000 for incidents in the club's Championship loss to Fulham on 2 April.

An independent regulatory commission found the club failed to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion in the 78th minute of the game - which Fulham won 2-0.

Eustace admitted improper conduct towards the fourth official.

The stoppage-time incident also saw Eustace get a one-match touchline ban.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61110707

Fulham reveal major injury boost ahead of Derby County clash

The latest Derby County news from DerbyshireLive as Fulham boss Marco Silva delivers an update on his squad ahead of the encounter at Pride Park

Fulham boss Marco Silva says he will have his full squad available heading into the Championship clash with Derby County on Good Friday (8pm).

The league leaders are 10 points clear of second-placed Bournemouth, though last weekend's 3-1 home defeat against Coventry City was a shock for Silva's side.

But the Portuguese boss says his players will solely be focused on the task they have on their hands heading to Pride Park, as they continue their push to claim the league title and promotion to the Premier League.

"I'm fighting for it, like my players are," Silva said in his pre-match press-conference. "I'm really concentrated on my job. I came here to do something special. I'm working from the first day to achieve it.

"The winning mentality we are creating all together and the way we are playing so far.

"The team spirit, the togetherness has been really pleasing for me."

On having a full squad to boost his chances of doing so, he added: "All the squad are available. TC [Tom Cairney] had a small issue after QPR but he is available for this match."



https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-reveal-major-injury-boost-6954013

Rooney: "The Mood Is Good And We Will Give It Everything"

Wayne Rooney has insisted the mood is good in the Derby County camp as they approach what he has described as a 'big' Easter Weekend.

Derby will face Sky Bet Championship leaders Fulham at Pride Park Stadium on Easter Friday (8pm kick-off) before heading to Queens Park Rangers on Bank Holiday Monday (3pm kick-off).

Rooney's side, after being impacted with a 21-point deduction this season for entering administration and a historical breach of profitability and sustainability rules, are continuing to fight to remain in the second tier of English football.

They are nine points adrift of safety with five matches left to play and, although the odds are against them, Derby are well versed to taking up a challenge head on.

First up is the visit of Premier League bound Fulham and Rooney has stressed that the visit of the Cottagers is a game his side need to win.

"The mood is good," Rooney told RamsTV. "The lads have trained well, been energetic and worked really hard so it's a big game for us.

"We know Fulham are a very good team, they are top of the league, and we go into this one knowing that we need to win.

"There is pressure on us but that's where we are at; we have to get three points.

"I'm sure by 5pm on Easter Monday, we will know exactly where we are at in terms of if we have got a chance or staying up or we haven't."

He added: "We have got a plan of how we want to play and we feel we can hurt them. They are not unbeatable.

"We must be solid; we have to work hard and we know we have to give everything and go into it with that mentality."

Fulham are on course to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking this term under new boss Marco Silva.

They are ten points clear of AFC Bournemouth in second place and automatic promotion could be confirmed as early as Friday night, should results go their way and then pick up all three points against the Rams.

Aleksandar Mitrovic's goals have played a key role in hiring the Cottagers to the top of the table and he has netted a staggering 38 goals in 38 appearances in the league.

On Fulham, who Derby held to a 0-0 draw at Craven Cottage in November, Rooney said: "I think they have been clinical this season.

"They have Mitrovic up top and they score a lot of goals, but they are clinical and take their chances.

"They have a big squad of players and they are the best in the league so it is a challenge for us.

"We know that we are coming up against a good team but if we stick to our game plan and what we feel will work for us, and where we can hurt them, then we have a chance."



https://www.dcfc.co.uk/news/2022/04/derby-county-vs-fulham-april-2022-pre-match-interview

Allsop: "We Have To Be Positive"

Goalkeeper Ryan Allsop believes Derby County need to approach the final five games of the 2021/22 season with a positive mindset as they prepare to take on league leaders Fulham on Good Friday (8pm kick-off).

The Rams have a handful of games remaining to turn around a nine-point deficit or face relegation from the Sky Bet Championship.

It's a tough ask, especially having been deducted 21 points earlier in the season, but the Rams have performed admirably to still be in with a chance of avoiding the drop this deep into the campaign.

Victories are now crucial if Wayne Rooney's side are to avoid the drop into Sky Bet League One but they face a tough task as the division's leaders head to Pride Park Stadium.

The Cottagers have an outside chance of being promoted to the Premier League on Friday should results earlier in the day go in their favour, but with the Rams fighting for their lives, Allsop knows Derby will be going all out for all three points.

"We have to be positive and approach every game as though we are going to win," he told RamsTV. "We know it's going to be a tough game against Fulham, they are top of the league, but I think we can hurt anyone in this division with the way that we can play.

"If we set up right and play the way we want to then we are a dangerous team for anyone to face. We are going to approach it positively and go for the win.

"We can cause teams problems with the way we set up and the structure we play from. Some results have gone against us when we have been more in the game.

"We have conceded sloppy goals which we need to get better at but in terms of us being in matches and staying in them. We've been in every single one, bar a couple.

"We need to approach this one with a positive mindset and we have to win games at this stage. We are going to go for the win and you don't know what's going to happen in football.

"We have got to win every match we play and that's what we are going to try and do."

He added: "Fulham are a very good team. They have shown that throughout the season. They had a bad result the other day as they lost 3-1 to Coventry City but we know they are going to cause us problems and it's how we deal with that and nullify them.

"We need to impose our game on to them and try our best to win. It's not going to be easy but we know we are capable of doing it."

The Rams are back at Pride Park Stadium, a place where they have enjoyed some memorable moments throughout the season.

Victories against Stoke City, AFC Bournemouth and Sheffield United, all of whom came to town on a good run, provide Derby with hope that they can earn a result against Marco Silva's side.

And, for Allsop, the news of a preferred bidder being named by the club's administrators could provide a boost to the Rams squad.

American businessman Chris Kirchner, who has been in Derby over the past couple of days, is hoping he can conclude a deal to buy the club and Allsop believes it is positive news for everyone attached to the football club.

"It's a massive boost for everyone at the club in terms of it moving forward and getting a bit of clarity on the situation for the future," he said. "I think it's massive for everyone in the building, fans and everyone associated with the club.

"It's a massive boost, a massive positive and we need to concentrate on what we do on the pitch and do our best and give our all.

"It has been a long season and we've had to face a lot in terms of stuff off the pitch. There have been stressful moments throughout the season with uncertainty but hopefully we are on the other side of that now and we can start to look forward and plan ahead."

Despite all the off-field issues, on the field, Allsop has enjoyed his football with the Rams so far.

The shot-stopper cemented his place in the starting line up at the start of December and has been a consistent figure between the sticks, following his arrival as a free agent last summer, as the Rams have pushed to stay in the division.

"I absolutely love it here," Allsop admitted. "I can't express how much I have enjoyed this season in a weird way. I've enjoyed my football more than I've ever enjoyed it this season.

"It's been difficult off the pitch but in terms of style of play and the way we approach things on a day to day basis, and the way we work, it's been such an enjoyable time to play in this team.

"It does feel like home and I've loved every minute of it in terms of playing games and the way we play. Hopefully it will only be more enjoyable now that the situation is getting sorted off the pitch."



https://www.dcfc.co.uk/news/2022/04/allsop-we-have-to-be-positive

Pre-Match Information: Fulham (H)

Derby County face Fulham in their latest Sky Bet Championship fixture on home turf.

Wayne Rooney's side will face the Cottagers at Pride Park Stadium on Friday 15th April (8pm kick-off).
For those supporters attending the game, we wish to provide the following guidance and information:
COVID Pass Rules Changes

From 27th January 2022, it was confirmed it was no longer mandatory for venues to require attendees to be checked for their COVID-19 status and this applies for matches at Derby County Football Club.

However, some venues or events may still choose to require proof of COVID-19 status as a condition of entry and supporters attending away matches are recommended to check each club's policy in advance.

Supporters are recommended to keep up to date with the latest UK Government guidelines in relation to COVID-19 by visiting gov.uk/coronavirus.
Match Tickets

* Match tickets for home supporters will be on sale until kick-off from the Ticket Office and until 6pm online on dcfc.co.uk.

* The Ticket Office counters at Pride Park Stadium are open from 10am until kick-off.

* The Ticket Office phone lines will open at 10am and close half an hour before kick-off at 7:30pm.

* Supporters are advised to arrive as early as possible if they are purchasing tickets on arrival to avoid queues and potentially missing the start of the game.

* Match tickets that have been sent via the 'Print at Home' delivery method have been sent to the email address we have registered to your Fan ID (please check your junk/spam folders) so please ensure that your details are up to date on dcfc.co.uk.

* If you have NOT received your e-ticket please contact the Ticket Office on [email protected] before the day of the game, in order to avoid unnecessarily queuing at the Ticket Office on matchday.

* Supporters that selected the 'Print at Home' delivery option must print their tickets prior to arriving at the stadium on white A4 paper, using black ink only.

* The option to use Mobile Tickets is no longer available on the turnstiles with Season Ticket Cards in operation.

* Supporters that had a match ticket posted to their home address, or purchased from the Ticket Office, are advised to scan the ticket at the turnstiles as normal.

* There is no option to upgrade nor downgrade tickets on the day of the game, therefore please make sure you have obtained/purchased the correct age category.

* Supporters must ensure their personal and contact details are correct and must provide their current telephone number when purchasing a ticket.

* Supporters with any match ticket related enquiries prior to the day of the game are advised to email [email protected]. Disabled supporters with any access enquires are requested to email [email protected].

* Ticketing FAQs for this game can be found here: dcfc.co.uk/page/ticketing-useful-information?k=fe88ed3b36b97f746b0b1dc4af36319a1d64204e
Stadium Access Issues

* Supporters having issues gaining entry on their tickets are advised to visit the Turnstile Access Issues Windows at the rear of the North Stand from 6:30pm

* The turnstiles will open at 6:30pm and kick-off is at 8pm. Supporters are encouraged to arrive early to avoid unnecessary queues and potentially missing the start of the game.

* Please note that tickets are NOT on sale from the Ticket Access Windows.

* Matchday staff will be available to assist with any queries and direct supporters to their seats. They will be wearing blue tabards and be located around the stadium.

* Bags must be no larger than 45cm x 30cm x 15cm and are subject to search. There is no on-site storage facility for oversized bags. If you have a medical condition that requires you to bring a bag or other equipment, please email [email protected].
Disabled Supporters

* Disabled supporters who have claimed a complimentary Personal Assistant Ticket will also be required to email [email protected] with the full contact details of their Personal Assistant (full name, address, telephone number) as entry into the stadium will not be permitted until this information has been provided.
Code Of Conduct

* Derby County's COVID-19 Supporters Code of Conduct can be found here: dcfc.co.uk/page/covid-19-supporters-co...
Car Parking

* In conjunction with Derby City Council, an online booking system for Pride Park Stadium matchday car parking priced £8.50 (Location No. 754606) is now operation.

* Seasonal Parking Pass holders are not required to book online but must continue to display their car park hanger on the day to avoid incurring a fine.

* Non-Seasonal Parking Pass holders are advised that parking in Car Park A or B without booking via the link provided below risk incurring a fine. Therefore, please book your car park pass in advance of making the journey to Pride Park Stadium.

* For more information and to reserve your space in advance of attending any first team match, visit https://secure.mipermit.com/derby/Account/PayAndSt...

* If you have any questions regarding the matchday parking ticket, please email [email protected].

* Supporters that require Accessible Parking are advised to email [email protected] prior to the match.
Supporter Safety

* In the interest of our supporters' safety, we are advising fans to wear a face covering or face visor (covering both their nose and mouth) in the concourses and toilet areas, unless they are consuming refreshments, medically exempt or under the age of 12.

* Although wearing a mask is no longer mandatory, please consider others around you. Please also continue to use the hand sanitising stations around Pride Park Stadium and try and avoid close contact with others where possible. Finally, please always follow the guidance of Stewards.
Supporter Behaviour

Anti-social behaviour at matches will not be tolerated.

Repeating the previous communication issued earlier this month, Derbyshire Constabulary and the club have had to contend with an unusually higher number of incidents when attending both home and away first team matches.

The club wishes to remind supporters that any form of anti-social behaviour is unacceptable and whilst these instances only represent a small section of supporters, those who behave in this way are only demonstrating a complete lack of respect for all those associated with Derby County.

The support that the club has received in the most challenging of circumstances this season is hugely appreciated, but it should be noted that future incidents could result in further ramifications for the club in the form of either fines or sanctions.

Anyone behaving offensively at a match can expect to be dealt with by the authorities and the club, who continue to work closely with supporter groups to address anti-social behaviour from individual fans and will always support prosecutions when that is the appropriate course of action to take.

Derby County will also continue to collaborate with Derbyshire Constabulary and the Safety Advisory Group to ensure security operations are robust and effective and provide additional support when necessary.

The club's message is very simple to those intent on causing trouble; you do not represent Derby County and, if you cannot control yourself, you are not welcome at matches.
Matchday Incident Reporting

* Supporters can report any incidents or concerns directly to Derby County Match Control on a matchday at Pride Park Stadium via text message. This includes: the use of discriminatory language, anti-social behaviour or any Health & Safety concerns. You must start your text with DCFC, then your message and send to 88440. Please include as much information as possible, including the Stand Row, Seat Number and Names where possible.
Medical Emergencies

With over 20 million supporters attending EFL fixtures each season, there will be occasions where a supporter will require medical treatment during a match.

The health and safety of everybody attending matches at Derby County is of paramount importance, so fans can be reassured that all Clubs have a Matchday Medical Plan with dedicated crowd medical teams in stadia, ready to assist at any point during the match.

If a supporter becomes unwell at Pride Park Stadium and requires medical assistance, then we strongly advise that the nearest steward is made aware who will ensure that the crowd medical team is notified and that appropriate care is provided.

It is important to note that the responsibilities of the crowd medical teams are separate to club medical support teams for players.

This season, a number of EFL matches have been paused while medical treatment has been provided to supporters. On several occasions, the usual Matchday Medical Plan has been bypassed with members of the Clubs' on-pitch medical teams called in to assist.

Supporters are asked not to alert players or staff on the pitch as in most cases the crowd medical team will be able to provide medical care as the match continues.

Should a situation arise where there is a need for the match to be halted, a decision will be taken between the crowd medical team, the ground safety team and the match officials with the information relayed to the supporters at the ground.

This is in line with the briefing note produced by National Events Medicine Advisory Group (NEMAG) in conjunction with the Sports Grounds Safety Authority's (SGSA) and football authorities.

Again, it is important to remember that if you have any concerns or need assistance while at the match, then please notify your nearest steward.
Refreshments

* A limited menu will be served from the concourse kiosks, including pies, hot dogs, drinks and confectionary. This includes a limited range of hot and cold food plus draught alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages.

* Pride Park Stadium is now a cashless venue, debit/credit cards (excluding AMEX) and contactless payment are accepted.

* Due to a change in Matchday Safety Guidelines ALL drinks from the kiosks within Pride Park Stadium will be served after being decanted.
Fans Park

* The Fans Park, located in the Toyota West Stand car park, will be open from 6pm until kick-off and supporters will be able to purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic pre-match refreshments.
The Yard

* The Yard at Pride Park Stadium will be open from 6pm until kick-off and after the final whistle until 11:30pm. A Bar Menu will be available to supporters on first-come, first-served basis.
DCFCMegastore

* The DCFCMegastore will be open from 9am until 8pm.

* The DCFCMegastore's 'Ministore' outside the stadium will be open from 5pm until kick-off at 8pm.
Matchday Betting

* Supporters wishing to place a matchday bet can do so using club partner Unibet's fast and secure betting App easily from their mobile, as well as at the Unibet stations in the concourse areas.

Download from the Apple Store: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/unibet-pro/id4633353...

Download for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com....

Please Note: 18+ only. begambleaware.org.



https://www.dcfc.co.uk/news/2022/04/pre-match-information-fulham-h

The strange feeling of inevitability at Fulham

The bizarre feeling of inevitability may even have hit the most pessimistic of Fulham fans this season. Marco Silva's swaggering side were in no doubt of what they were to achieve this season and have navigated the Championship with the same confident manner. As with any season for any football club, it has had its ups and downs with losses to Blackpool, Reading and two to Coventry being contrary to memorable 7-0s at the aforementioned Reading and Blackburn Rovers and two back to back 6-2s against Bristol City and Birmingham. It's almost easy to forget that Fulham had a period of 2 wins in 6 games before 7 wins in a row was followed up by a 5 game winless run.

With six games to go, Fulham hold a 10 point lead at the top and a 14 point lead of 3rd placed Huddersfield on top of 16 point gap on 4th placed Nottingham Forest who hold a game in hand. All this means that it would take near perfection for the chasers plus a complete capitulation at Craven Cottage to catch Fulham and ruin the promotion (17/18), relegation (18/19), promotion (19/20), relegation (20/21) and promotion (21/22 pending) pattern. Fulham began to wrestle control of 1st place thanks to the seven game run of wins and a strong start to the new year.

To mention inevitable and Fulham without mentioning Aleksandar Mitrovic would be criminal. Our Serbian talisman has thrived in Marco Silva's system of constant attacking waves and actual patterns of play, a refreshing style of football that clearly knew how it was going to try and score against the opposition as opposed to having a 'philosophy' for philosophies sake. There a few words to describe Mitro's season that haven't been said before, 38 goals (and counting) in 38 fixtures plus 7 assists that only 13 players in the division have bettered has featured a hat-trick of hat-tricks, a longest goal drought of 3 games and as I write, more goals than 3 clubs in the division. The inevitable Championship Player of the Season continues to write himself into Fulham folklore.

Sometimes you can just see 'it' in a player. It's an innate appreciation and control of the ball, it's a manipulation of space off the ball and in special cases, immense work rate to press and move. Fulham's Scholar Of The Year in 2020 and the Fulham Supporter's Trust Academy Player of the Year in 2021, Fabio Carvalho, had the same inevitable stardom of the likes of Ryan Sessegnon in years prior. His move to Liverpool also had a feel of certainty, his style and skillset as if Jurgen Klopp had him built in a factory.

While new and returning faces have contributed to Fulham's success this season, a word of support to the inevitable Tim Ream. His assured displays into his mid-30s have seen us enjoy perhaps his last year of Craven Cottage with comfortable distribution and collected defensive style. A typical Tim Ream defensive motion followed by "Ream" from the Fulham Faithful will be missed when his time is up. With more Fulham appearances than Aaron Hughes, Clint Dempsey and due to overtake Luis Boa Morte, Tim Ream's service to the club is second to few, let alone in the 21st century when the only player to join Fulham post-2000 and have more appearances for the club is Brede Hangeland. A cult hero in the final year of his contract at Fulham may just be on the way out with inevitable contributions to a near-certain Championship trophy.

While Fulham are almost mandatorily busy on transfer deadline day, the inevitability of Fulham's position has seen the club (all but) secure the signing of Manor Solomon from Shakhtar Donetsk in April. The Premier League planning appears to be well underway, a luxury the lottery of the play-offs can't buy you. Fulham are set to not only have more time than their fellow promoted Championship clubs but about five-weeks preparation and transfer time on their (to be) fellow Premier League sides.

When things seem so certain, it's important to enjoy them at the time. Don't stress yourself out about mathematical points predictors when Silva's side have done so well to have such a strong lead into the final straight. Enjoy these last few games and drink in every moment as a trophy lift at Craven Cottage is feeling inevitable.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/04/the-strange-feeling-of-inevitability-at-fulham/

Riverside Season Tickets: ST Priority & General Sale

2021/22 Season Ticket Holders will have exclusive access to purchase seats for the 2022/23 campaign in the new Riverside Stand Lower Tier from Tuesday 19th April at 10am.

The response from supporters across all three priority groups has been fantastic. Fans are reminded that all seats in the Lower Tier are available to purchase on a first-come-first-served basis – with very high demand expected, and to avoid disappointment, supporters looking to secure seats in the new stand as soon as possible.

Please note, any 2021/22 Season Ticket Holders who purchase in the Riverside Stand will not have their current seat reserved for 2022/23 renewal.
Priority Group 3

Supporters in Priority Group 3 have until 5pm on Monday 18th April to purchase their seat in the new Riverside Stand Lower Tier.
2021/22 Season Ticket Holders

Season Ticket Holders who were not in any of the three Priority Groups will have a three day exclusivity window to secure a seat in the Lower Tier for 2022/23 Season.

These seats will be available to purchase online at tickets.fulhamfc.com, by phone on 0203 871 0810 (Mon-Fri, 9:30am-4:30pm) or in person from the Ticket Office at Craven Cottage.
Additional Seats

Supporters who have already committed for 2022/23 will also be able to purchase additional seats in the Riverside Lower Tier between 10am on Tuesday 19th and 5pm Thursday 21st April. Please note, additional seats are only available to buy over the phone on 0203 871 0810 (9:30am-4:30pm) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office - supporters who fall into this group will not be able to purchase online during this window.
General Sale

Subject to availability, new Riverside Stand Lower Tier Season Tickets will be made available on General Sale, from 10am on Friday 22nd April.
PREPARE FOR YOUR SALES WINDOW

With in-person visits to Craven Cottage unavailable, use the Club's 3D seat tool to gain an understanding of what seats remain and the different types of views available from the new stand.




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/april/14/riverside-season-tickets-general-sale-info/

Promotion Permutations

When Fulham kick-off in Good Friday's evening fixture, we will know whether or not it's possible to confirm promotion with a victory over Derby County.

The day starts with Nottingham Forest's trip to Luton Town, and if the Reds lose at Kenilworth Road, three points at Pride Park will confirm our return to the Premier League.

Even if Forest draw, a Fulham victory will all but mathematically seal a top-two place, such is our superior goal difference.

Huddersfield Town can technically still catch us, too, but the highest points tally available to them is 85, so a Whites win would put us out of their reach.

But regardless of any permutations, Marco Silva insists his side will be concentrating purely on themselves.

"What happens in the other results, is not the main thing for us right now," he explained. "If you start to focus on other sides, then you don't keep the focus on ourselves and what we can do, and you can have problems.

"One of the main things for us is we always focus on ourselves, it's what we can control, and we can control our game against Derby. There are things we can't control at all, and we will not lose energy, time and focus on this situation.

"We are really calm about the situation. From the first day, [promotion] was our aim and we are fighting for it.

"We know nothing is guaranteed yet and we have to keep fighting, keep working hard, keep enjoying the moment as well, embrace the challenge like we are doing so far.

"We go into the match thinking only about getting three points, and at the end we will see what will happen in the table, and the consequence that will come from the match.

"That's the way we've been preparing so far, and nothing's changed. We have six games to play, and the next one is the most important one for us."

Promotion is not the only target for the Club, with Marco hoping his men get their just rewards for a phenomenal season, with winners' medals come May.

"We don't have just one goal in our mind," he stated. "Of course, the main thing for us is to get promoted, [but] we want to fight to be Champions, we want to fight to finish on the top.

"Most weekends we have been there, at the top of the table, and we will fight for it until the last day of the Championship.

"I know that some clubs will fight for the same. Not many for the top right now, two or three, but more are fighting for promotion.

"We have to keep our feet on the ground, focus, focus, focus, keep the concentration.

"I think the last game is a good example of how we can't lose one second of focus, because if you are not 100 per cent in the game then things that happened last Sunday against Coventry can happen again. And we don't want that."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/april/14/promotion-permutations/

1983 and all that


The mere mention of Derby County will bring a frown to the face of any Fulham fan of a certain vintage. Malcolm Macdonald's homegrown side, put together on a shoestring budget, might well have blown their chances of a second successive promotion by the time they headed for Baseball Ground on the final day of the 1983 season following three consecutive defeats that transformed a seemingly comfortable advantage over Leicester City in a straight shoot-out with the Foxes for the third promotion spot, but that ill-timed loss of form doesn't diminish the scandalous nature of what transpired.

It is hard not to think of what Macdonald's magnificent side – very similar in their adventurous approach to Marco Silva's current Cottagers in many ways – might have been able to do in the top flight. The team was packed with quality from Gerry Peyton in between the sticks, the homegrown duo of Tony Gale and Jeff Hopkins competing with Roger Brown in central defence, the industrious Rob Wilson, Ray Lewington and gifted Ray Houghton in midfield and the prolific Gordon Davies paired with Dean Coney up front. The Whites did things in real style – scoring four against Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Grimsby and Wolves – and, even after their late stumble, a win at Derby would have ended Fulham's fifteen year exile from English football's elite after Leicester could only draw with Burnley.

Derby were desperate for the points themselves to avoid relegation and there was a nasty atmosphere in the air, with Houghton recalling that home fans had mimed throat-cutting gestures to the visiting players as they entered the ground. The travelling supporters had coins, a pigs head and urine thrown at them, and there were fights in the vicinity of the Baseball Ground both before and afterwards. Luck wasn't with Macdonald's men on the field, either. Home goalkeeper Steve Cherry produced an outstanding save to deny Coney an opener and Davies was incensed at not being awarded a penalty after being fouled in the area. Referee Ray Chadwick appeared reluctant to punish a succession of niggly home fouls – that in the modern game might well have been punished with red cards rather than yellows, but that all seems rather tame when you consider how the game ended.

Derby got the goal their survival hopes depended onto when Bobby Davidson volleyed home with fourteen minutes to play. The tinderbox exploded. Home fans scaled the fences in celebration and the stewards and local police failed to prevent the fence gates from being opened. The home crowd flocked around the perimeter of the pitch. Houghton had a shot superbly tipped over the crossbar by an inspired Cherry – and supporters surged onto the field to congratulate the Derby goalkeeper. The contest was now a farce. Lewington remonstrated with several fans as he looked to take the ensuing corner but had to abandon his usual run-up to get the ball in.

Wilson went on a run down the left wing and was felled by a tackle from a supporter. Referee Chadwick restarted proceedings with a drop ball. When he blew for an offside decision, thousands of home fans invaded the pitch again to acclaim Derby's survival. The players sought sanctuary in the dressing room, with Hopkins – who had his shirt ripped apart – punched several times by Derby supporters. Chadwick said that there were 78 seconds left on his stopwatch, but the reality was that the consistent stoppages following Davidson's goal would have necessitated plenty of injury time.

Macdonald, who never got to manage in the top flight, was apoplectic with rage. He insisted the game should be replayed – repeating over and over in his post-match interviews that a football match was meant to last ninety minutes. Fulham's appeal to the Football League was dismissed the following Monday, with the league's then chairman – one Graham Kelly – claiming: "It would be monstrously unfair on other clubs affected, most of all Leicester City. The circumstances cannot be recreated unless you replay almost the whole of the Second Division programme." A second appeal, supported by a 38-page submission, also failed with the League referring to regulation nineteen of their rules, which gave them 'absolute discretion'. Fulham's fabulous side was quickly broken up with the asset-stripping that followed almost taking the club out of business altogether.

There may have been a modicum of revenge earned in recent seasons – with Derby going down from the Premier League after drawing with Roy Hodgson's side during the Great Escape and those goals from Ryan Sessegnon and Denis Odoi settling a tight play-off semi-final in 2018, but it is understandable that memories of that horrid afternoon remain fresh for all who witnessed such an injustice. How fitting it would be were Fulham to clinch promotion at Pride Park tomorrow night.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/04/1983-and-all-that/

£12m man Liverpool sold last summer could now be named best player in his entire league

Former Liverpool winger Harry Wilson has been nominated for the Championship Player of the Season award.

The 25-year-old, who joined The Reds aged seven, has been excellent for The Cottagers as they look certain to bounce back to the Premier League.

Wilson has hit double figures in both goals and assists in the Championship this season. His 14 assists is a league high, while he's also managed to weigh in with 10 goals of his own.

As per fulhamfc.com, Wilson will battle it out with Aleksander Mitrovic and fellow Liverpool old-boy Dominic Solanke for the award.

Mitrovic is likely to be a shoo-in for the award having plundered an unprecedented 38 goals in the league this season. Wilson's standing as a scorer and a creator will stand him in good stead to run the Serbian close, though.

Good luck Harry!

Liverpool feeling short-changed
After playing just once during his Liverpool career, the Welshman was finally moved on by Jurgen Klopp last summer. The £12m that it cost Fulham to bring him to West London felt like a good deal for Liverpool at the time.

But given his output since then, it's possible that The Reds were a little short-changed on Wilson. It'll be interesting to see whether he can make the step up to the top division next season.

Liverpool may feel some disappointment at potentially losing out on a chunk of money for Wilson. But this should be tempered by the deal they look to have struck for Fabio Carvalho.

According to The Athletic, The Reds have already agreed a deal to bring Carvalho to Anfield next season. The fee looks like being around £7.7m including add-ons.

That looks an incredible deal on the face of it. Even more so when you consider that he has also made the shortlists announced today. The 19-year-old is one of three players nominated for the Young Player of the Season.



https://www.rousingthekop.com/2022/04/14/12m-man-liverpool-sold-last-summer-could-now-be-named-as-the-best-player-in-his-entire-league/

Stylish Fulham have bossed the Championship all season and stand on the brink of promotion this weekend with striker Mitrovic eyeing up a record... But after two failed attempts to remain in the Premier League, can they shed their yo-yo reputation?

    Fulham could be promoted to the Premier League over the Easter weekend
    If Nottingham Forest lose and they win on Friday, they'll get over the line
    Alternatively, wins over Derby on Friday and Preston on Monday will be enough
    Marco Silva's side can still surpass a century of goals and and points
    But the step up to the Premier League has proved difficult in recent seasons
    Whether they spent big or not, Fulham came back down in 2019 and 2021

The victory champagne should be nicely chilled, having been on ice for an awful long time now.

Fulham should finally be able to uncork it over the Easter weekend as they return to the Premier League in about as straightforward a manner as the notoriously demanding Championship will allow.

If Nottingham Forest lose at Luton Town on Friday lunchtime and Fulham then win at Derby County that evening, they'll be home. Otherwise, a win over the Rams and also Preston North End on Tuesday will do it.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/16/56617543-10719509-image-a-48_1649951756032.jpg)
Fulham have been head and shoulders above everyone else in the Championship this season

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/16/56617539-10719509-image-m-50_1649951801497.jpg)
Manager Marco Silva has got his side playing with panache and the goals have flowed

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/16/56617537-10719509-image-m-52_1649951852322.jpg)
Fulham could be promoted on Friday if Nottingham Forest lose at Luton and they beat Derby

Marco Silva's team won't surpass Reading's post-2004 rebrand points record of 106, set in 2005-06, but they can bring up a century with a maximum of 18 points from their remaining half-dozen games.

Fulham have already racked up 94 goals from 40 matches and they should surpass the Royals' record tally of 99 goals from that same campaign. Indeed, a goal glut from here may see them beat Manchester City's 108 from 2001-02.

Their deadly striker Aleksandar Mitrovic will certainly fancy his chances of scoring the five more goals he needs to overtake Guy Whittingham's post-1992 second-tier record of 42.

He's already smashed the 33 by Brentford's Ivan Toney that set a Championship record last season.

Fulham have been ruthless, stylish and consistent in equal measure. Both Blackburn Rovers and Reading have taken 7-0 pastings on their own ground. Bristol City and Birmingham City were hit for six in the space of four days. They've scored four or more goals on 10 occasions.

Silva's commitment to attack has made this Fulham side a far more entertaining watch than the Slavisa Jokanovic-led promotion side of 2017-18 and Scott Parker's 2019-20 vintage. It explains why this Fulham will go up as champions rather than fighting through the play-offs.

But the Craven Cottage regulars will be forgiven for already looking forward to next season and whether their yo-yo club can finally establish themselves in the top-flight again.

It's become even more imperative now that west London rivals Brentford are staying up for a second season and the £80million Riverside Stand - with its £1,000 season tickets and rooftop swimming pool - nearing completion.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/16/56617535-10719509-image-a-55_1649951925823.jpg)
The question now is whether Fulham can stay in the Premier League - unlike the last two campaigns in the top-flight in 2018-19 and 2020-21

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/17/56619641-10719509-image-a-57_1649952086582.jpg)
The redevelopment of the Riverside Stand will boost the capacity of Craven Cottage

Ahead of their 2018-19 Premier League season, owner Shahid Khan sanctioned £100million of spending on new signings but they still finished second bottom, some 10 points adrift of safety.

When they last came back up, amid the Covid pandemic in 2020, outlay was more modest, with a greater reliance on loan signings. The frugal approach didn't work either, they finished 11 points shy of Burnley in 17th.

So are they good enough to stay up this time around?

Clearly much will depend on Mitrovic, a man of prodigious scoring feats in the Championship who has been a flop in the Premier League with returns of nine for Newcastle in 2015-16 and just 11 and four in Fulham's two seasons.

It may be better this time around. After all, the 27-year-old has plenty of top-flight experience in the bank but he just doesn't seem able to bully Premier League defences like those in the Championship.

Equally, Fulham don't really have anyone else as a senior centre forward and would be well-advised to sign one in the summer even if it risks upsetting the Serb. If Mitrovic picks up an injury, they are seriously diminished.

Craft and creativity from the flanks has been a Fulham hallmark for some time now and they're not short of options. Whether they're Premier League calibre is another matter.

Harry Wilson, who cost £12m from Liverpool, has enjoyed an outstanding season with 11 goals and 15 assists. The Welshman will relish a first proper crack at the Premier League after his Liverpool career faded into EFL loan spells.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/17/56619743-10719509-image-a-58_1649952258764.jpg)
Harry Wilson has excelled in Fulham colours since joining the club from Liverpool for £12m

Left winger Neeskens Kebano has also performed well this season but his contribution to the last Premier League campaign was minimal and he was ultimately loaned out to Middlesbrough.

Ivan Cavaleiro also struggled to make the step up last time and has seen his effectiveness this season hampered by a groin injury.

The point is, Fulham place a great emphasis on flying wingers but none of the present options are proven in Premier League football.

19-year-old playmaker Fabio Carvalho has enjoyed a superb breakthrough year but is bound for Liverpool in a deal initially worth £5m that could rise to nearer £8m.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/17/56619753-10719509-image-a-59_1649952308565.jpg)
Fabio Carvalho's impressive season has led very quickly to a big club move with Liverpool

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/17/56578151-10719509-image-a-60_1649952347491.jpg)
Fulham will finalise a £6.3million move for Shakhtar Donetsk star Manor Solomon this summer

The Portuguese is clearly on a good trajectory and Fulham have been wise to insert a future sell-on clause but it won't help them now.

They have already invested the Carvalho money in the £6.3m signing of Manor Solomon, the Israel international winger, from crisis-hit Shakhtar Donetsk.

Just as important, if not more so, next season will be keeping goals out. Fulham have kept 15 clean sheets this season and conceded only 35 times, the joint-best record in the league.

But their Premier League ventures have been messy at times. They shipped 81 goals in 2018-19, a shocking return but they improved this to 'only' 53 last season.

Jean Michael Seri, Harrison Reed and Nathaniel Chalobah shield the defence well but Silva will have to get the balance right and it could well tilt towards a more conservative approach to avoid the midfield being overrun and it could be to the detriment of Fulham's identity.

Right-back Neco Williams has slotted in nicely since arriving on loan from Liverpool in January and his brimming confidence was in evidence in the win over Blackburn, when he almost chipped the Rovers keeper from his own half.

Jurgen Klopp may have other ideas but perhaps Fulham could secure another season from Williams.

United States international Tim Ream and Tosin Adarabioyo have formed a strong central defensive partnership and both will be raring to have another crack at the Premier League.

That especially applies to Ream, who was demoted to the bench for much of last season after Ola Aina and Joachim Andersen arrived on loan and Parker went three-at-the-back.

But there's no avoiding the fact there is a considerable gulf in quality between the Championship and the Premier League.

Many of the current squad have learned this from bitter experience. This time around, Fulham may opt to keep a winning side together and hope for the best rather than interfere too much.

But reinforcements will still be required in many areas to boost squad depth. Otherwise, Fulham may well find themselves praying there are three worse teams than them on their latest Premier League adventure.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-10719509/Can-Fulham-stay-Premier-League-season-Championship-promotion-beckons.html

Up next: Derby County (a)

Any trip to Derby County is likely to conjure up a fair bit of rage for the longstanding Fulham fans. The Whites might have relegated the Rams in 2008 and, after winning at Derby in the regular season, memorably won a play-off semi-final final a decade later thanks to the soaring Denis Odoi, but the memories of Malcolm Macdonald's side being cheated out of a chance of promotion to the top flight certainly linger. None of that will particularly relevant to Marco Silva's side, who despite stuttering towards the finishing line with just two wins in their last five fixtures, have a chance of sealing their return to the Premier League at Pride Park tonight.

Derby have already shown they aren't pushovers this season. Wayne Rooney's side, who have battled bravely against adversity all campaign, badly need a win to keep their hopes of a miraculous escape alive after their points deductions and financial uncertainty. A mixture of experience and youthful exuberance helped County claim a precious point at Craven Cottage earlier in the campaign, when they held a norovirus-hit Fulham side to a goalless draw. Rooney's motivational powers and tactical acumen have impressed many – the Rams would be safely ensconced in mid-table had they not been hindered by the EFL's penalties for Mel Morris' reckless gambles – and the clutch of homegrown stars who have flourished when thrown into the first team hint at a brighter future.

There does seem to a bit of light at the end of Derby's annus horribilis, with American software supremo Chris Kirchner finally confirmed as the club's preferred bidder after an agonising wait at the hands of the administrators. Any successful takeover would likely impose another 15-point handicap next season but Kirchner's arrival would remove the spectre of liquidation for one of English football's biggest names. If the club's academy can continue producing young gems and Rooney remains at helm, then brighter times might just be closer than you might think for one of the game's sleeping giants.

No Championship club has suffered fewer home defeats than Derby, so the trip to Pride Park will be far from straightforward for Silva's side. Rooney's blend of workmanlike knowhow and precocious young talent has inspired plenty of memorable performances against the league's leading sides this term – and you wouldn't bet against another act of defiance this evening. They have the fourth best defensive record on home turf in the division with the evergreen Curtis Davies still a miserly presence at the heart of the back four, as demonstrated in a masterful display in SW6 back in November.

Fulham boast the Championship's most clinical away record, with thirteen wins and 48 goals scored in twenty matches, and they will chomping at the bit to put things right after Sunday's error-strewn defeat at the hands of Coventry City. Silva could hand fit-again captain Tom Cairney a recall after the Whites were both out-thought and outplayed in the engine room last weekend but wholesale changes after a setback don't appear to be the placid Portuguese coach's way. He will seek an uplift in intensity and application against a ferocious opponent and continue to carefully assess who might be able to make the step up from his current squad.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Rodak; Williams, Bryan, Adarabioyo, Ream; Reed, Cairney; Wilson, Kebano, Carvalho; Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Gazzaniga, Tete, Hector, Chalobah, Seri, Decordova-Reid, Muniz.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/04/up-next-derby-county-a/

Fulham potentially set to hold advantage over Huddersfield Town in transfer race

Premier League outfit Chelsea will give centre-back Levi Colwill a chance to shine during pre-season but would most likely send him out on loan to a top-tier side if he fails to force his way into the Blues' first team, as per a report from 90min.

The 19-year-old has been a key player for current loan side Huddersfield Town this season, helping to transform the Terriers from strugglers to genuine promotion candidates with his 26 league appearances this term.

Managing to get on the scoresheet twice and recording one assist in the process, it's his defending that has received the most plaudits with the teenager establishing himself as one of the best young talents at Stamford Bridge.

With this, he has attracted interest from several sides ahead of a potential move in the summer window with Carlos Corberan's men and Fulham both thought to be weighing up a potential move.

They aren't alone in this race, however, with Everton, Leicester City and Southampton also said to be in the running for his signature.

The top-tier trio look set to hold an advantage in this pursuit, with 90min reporting that a loan move to the top flight looks certain for the central defender if he can't impress at Stamford Bridge in pre-season.

And it also means the Cottagers look more likely to get this deal over the line at this stage with Marco Silva's men closing in on automatic promotion and the Terriers' fate looking uncertain with a play-off place beckoning for them.

The Verdict:

This could be a decent deal for Silva's side because this loan agreement would allow them to add depth and quality in an area they need to improve, whilst enabling them to address other areas too because this deal is unlikely to cost too much.

Bringing the teenager in may also allow them to offload the likes of Michael Hector, Alfie Mawson and Terence Kongolo, all of whom haven't featured much this term but are probably on a decent salary.

With these potential departures on the way and Tosin Adarabioyo arguably needing a centre-back partner, at least two players in this position may need to be recruited to give Silva's men the best possible chance of remaining afloat in the top tier beyond the end of 2022/23.

Other positions may also need to be addressed though including the forward department with more competition needed for Aleksandar Mitrovic and Rodrigo Muniz – and a Fabio Carvalho replacement is also needed to fill the void he will leave.

They look set to fill this void by bringing in Manor Solomon, so it wouldn't be a massive surprise if officials at Craven Cottage decide to focus on the centre-back area next.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-potentially-set-to-hold-advantage-over-huddersfield-town-in-transfer-race/

Fulham eye 39-year revenge mission against Derby for 'game that never ended'

The Cottagers can potentially seal an immediate Premier League return with victory over Wayne Rooney's side - laying to rest an infamous match back in 1983 that ended up costing them promotion

Good Friday could turn into a great Friday for Fulham.

Depending on what third-placed Huddersfield and fourth-placed Nottingham Forest do earlier in the day, the Cottagers could well be toasting promotion back to the Premier League around 10pm. The irony that Marco Silva's side can achieve such a feat against Derby County, of all teams, may perhaps be lost on many younger Fulham fans.

But those of a certain age will cast their minds back to the events from 39 years ago. The 1982-83 campaign saw Fulham going for a second straight promotion, having come up from Division Three the year before. Malcolm MacDonald's side looked in fine fettle for one of the three automatic spots (in the days before the play-off system was introduced) for most of the season.

But a late season collapse would allow a resurgent Leicester to pip them to the post, with the Foxes not losing any of their final 15 games. Nevertheless, a goalless draw for Leicester against Burnley opened up the chance for Fulham to clinch elevation if they could win away at Derby on the last day.

The Rams had plenty to play for themselves, in need of a win that would guarantee them a spot in the second tier for the following season. It was an understandably tense affair at the Baseball Ground that day, but the vast majority of the stadium erupted when Bobby Davison notched for the hosts with 14 minutes to go.

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article26714348.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/2_Derby-County-v-Fulham-Football-League-Division-Two.jpg)
Fulham's Ray Houghton attempts to stop Derby's Archie Gemmill in a keenly-contested clash on the final day of the 1982-83 season ( Image:
Popperfoto via Getty Images)

That goal then sparked unsavoury scenes with home fans spilling onto the pitch, clearly overjoyed at the prospect of survival. Robert Wilson, who was playing for Fulham that day, said of the atmosphere: "I looked at the clock on the ground when the goal went in and noticed fans coming on to the pitch.

"They simply kept coming off the terraces and it became very difficult to play. It was very intimidating. I have never been so frightened in my life. I wondered if I was going to make it."

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article26714781.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_GettyImages-1335081334.jpg)
Malcolm MacDonald was unable to get Fulham promoted from the Second Division and was critical of how their game at Derby was managed by the officials

Police officers stormed the pitch in a bid to restore order but fans could only be scaled back as far as the bylines and behind the goals. This, understandably, increased the hostility for Fulham's players who were seeing their promotion dreams disappear by the second. Referee Ray Chadwick then blew his whistle, to the surprise of some onlookers, with only 89 minutes on the clock.

A lengthy process followed in trying to get players and officials off the pitch safely. Then, amazingly, Chadwick indicated that the match still had 78 seconds to go as his "final whistle" had actually been blown for an offside.

But amid a full-on pitch invasion there was little hope of that becoming a reality.

(https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article26714741.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_GettyImages-925883658.jpg)
Fulham's defeat sparked joyous scenes as Leicester City won promotion to the top flight in 1983

MacDonald, speaking post-match, was fuming: "The rules state the game should last for 90 minutes." Fulham eventually appealed, asking for the game to be replayed but it fell on deaf ears.

Football League secretary Graham Kelly would later say: "It would be monstrously unfair on other clubs affected, most of all Leicester City. The circumstances cannot be recreated unless you replay almost the whole of the Second Division programme."

That afternoon in the East Midlands would prove to be a sliding doors moment for Fulham, who would end up going back down to the third division in 1986. They would have to wait until 2001 to finally return to the top tier. Another chance to get back there represents itself tonight - and with it the chance to push Derby closer to the abyss at the same time.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/fulham-derby-promotion-revenge-1983-26714407

Fulham may be cruising into the Premier League but NINE other teams are fighting for promotion from the Championship, with Bournemouth being hunted down for that last automatic spot and Luton aiming for their first taste of the Premier League

    The Championship is perhaps the toughest division in the world to escape from
    This season, as many as 10 different teams are fighting for the Premier League
    Fulham are flying high at the top while Bournemouth are also in the automatics
    However, below them a host of sides are battling it out for a place in the top six
    Likes of Huddersfield, Nottingham Forest and Luton are gunning for Wembley

'The Championship is probably the hardest second division in the world.'

Who said that, you ask? It was none other that Pep Guardiola, the king of winning trophies. He has coached all around the world and knows exactly how difficult it is to achieve success in football. He is also absolutely correct.

With 46 matches to play and the dreaded play-offs at the end of the season, the second tier is one of the toughest divisions to escape. Many clubs have tried, failed, and then plummeted down the ladder into mediocrity.

It is unforgiving and takes its toll on a whole squad. But the reward for promotion is enviable riches, and the play-off final, held at Wembley every campaign, is the most lucrative match in the world because it is worth £170million to the winners.

This time around, high-flying Fulham are nailed-on to escape that dogfight. They are sitting in first place, ten points ahead of second, and could even go up this weekend.

As for the rest, they are braced for a flurry of games and drama before the curtain comes down and teams are left to lick their wounds or party the night away.

Here, Sportsmail takes a look at the promotion and play-off picture as it stands...

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/16/56617871-10719007-image-a-45_1649948870789.jpg)
Fulham are top of the Championship and are destined for a Premier League return this year

FULHAM

Position: 1st

Points: 83

Top scorer: Aleksandar Mitrovic (38)

The champagne has surely already been popped at Craven Cottage. Fulham have led the way at the top for most of the season, and will wrap up promotion soon.

They could bounce back to the big time this weekend, with two victories over Derby and Preston guaranteeing them a spot in the top two.

Even a loss against Wayne Rooney's men may not be enough to stop the celebrations should Nottingham Forest fall at Luton.

Marco Silva's side may have slipped up to Coventry last time out in a major shock, but they will certainly be playing Premier League football again next season.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Derby (A)

April 19 - Preston (H)

April 23 - Bournemouth (A)

April 26 - Nottingham Forest (H)

May 2 - Luton (H)

May 7 - Sheffield United (A)

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/04/14/16/56617895-10719007-image-a-46_1649948897318.jpg)
Aleksandr Mitrovic has scored 38 goals in the second tier to fire the club back into the big time

BOURNEMOUTH

Position: 2nd

Points: 73

Top scorer: Dominic Solanke (25)

Despite their inconsistencies, Bournemouth have flitted in and around the automatic promotions for most of the season - although their form has stuttered recently.

It is their superb start, then, that set them in good stead. The Cherries went unbeaten for their first 15 league games, and have steadily built on that.

Importantly, they score plenty of goals, although their defensive vulnerability at times has seen them slip up for some surprise results.

Stringing together two promising results during this busy period will surely see them home and dry, and earn them a spot back in the top-flight.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Middlesbrough (H)

April 18 - Coventry (A)

April 23 - Fulham (H)

April 26 - Swansea (A)

April 30 - Blackburn (A)

May 3 - Nottingham Forest (H)

May 7 - Millwall (H)

HUDDERSFIELD

Position: 3rd

Points: 69

Top scorer: Danny Ward (13)

Having been Marcelo Bielsa's assistant at Leeds, Carlos Corberan knows all about high-octane football. That is exactly what his side have served up this season.

Suddenly, almost out of nowhere, they have become contenders for automatic promotion, having shrugged off the stuttering first season under their manager.

Recent wins over Hull and Luton have seen them cling onto third, and picking up six more points should seal them a play-off spot at the minimum.

They may even be aiming for more, although Bournemouth hold two games in hand on them and are already four points adrift in second.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - QPR (H)

April 18 - Middlesbrough (A)

April 22 - Barnsley (H)

April 30 - Coventry (A)

May 7 - Bristol City (H)

NOTTINGHAM FOREST

Position: 4th

Points: 67

Top scorer: Brennan Johnson (15)

It has been a remarkable turnaround for Nottingham Forest under Steve Cooper.

When he took the reins at the City Ground in September, they were rooted bottom of the table and had axed Chris Hughton. Now, they are set to finish in the top six.

Notably, they also hold two games in hand on the teams around them and, if they win both while Huddersfield slip up, could even move up into third spot.

They enjoyed a superb run in the FA Cup, too, and despite them facing Fulham and Bournemouth soon, they will be confident in their hopes of reaching Wembley.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Luton (A)

April 18 - West Brom (H)

April 23 - Peterborough (A)

April 26 - Fulham (A)

April 30 - Swansea (H)

May 3 - Bournemouth (A)

May 7 - Hull (A)

LUTON TOWN

Position: 5th

Points: 65

Top scorer: Elijah Adebayo (16)

They may have hit a bump in the road recently, but Luton are still enjoying a remarkable season, especially considering their lowly budget.

Nathan Jones has rubbed people up the wrong way with his passionate celebrations, but there is no denying that his superb coaching has breathed life into this charge.

Next up for them is Nottingham Forest, a six-pointer in the play-off tussle.

A victory will settle their nerves, with Fulham to come in their penultimate game. They have worked hard to get here, and will not want to collapse just before the line.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Nottingham Forest (H)

April 18 - Cardiff (A)

April 23 - Blackpool (H)

May 2 - Fulham (A)

May 7 - Reading (H)

SHEFFIELD UNITED

Position: 6th

Points: 65

Top scorer: Billy Sharp (15)

Spearheaded by the evergreen Billy Sharp and enjoying a bounce under Paul Heckingbottom, there is no reason Sheffield United can't finish in the play-offs.

Slavisa Jokanovic's tenure was ill-fated from the start and the surprise promotion of their current manager from his role with the U23s was initially poorly received.

He deserves credit, however, for inspiring a turnaround which has helped United into the top six. Their formidable form at Bramall Lane has brought the fans back onside.

Last time out, they were irked by their draw with Bournemouth, but dominated the promotion favourites. Repeat performances will set them in good stead.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Reading (H)

April 18 - Bristol City (A)

April 23 - Cardiff (H)

April 29 - QPR (A)

May 7 - Fulham (H)

BLACKBURN ROVERS

Position: 7th

Points: 63

Top scorer: Ben Brereton Diaz (20)

Despite their dip in form in recent months, Blackburn Rovers still remain firmly in the top six picture. However, earlier this season, they had been sat inside the play-offs.

Their recent run of just one win in five typifies the inconsistent nature that has threatened to derail their bid, but they do have a favourable end to the campaign.

As it stands, Tony Mowbray and Co are two points adrift of two points.

However, with the pressure now firmly on, they will need to claw together a string of victories in order to ensure they keep their shot at Wembley glory alive and kicking.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Peterborough (A)

April 18 - Stoke (H)

April 25 - Preston (A)

April 30 - Bournemouth (H)

May 7 - Birmingham (A)

MIDDLESBROUGH

Position: 8th

Points: 62

Top scorer: Matt Crooks (9)

Take a bow, Chris Wilder. In the same vein as Steve Cooper, the former Sheffield United boss has helped inspire his Middlesbrough side up the table.

Before him, they were floundering under Neil Warnock.

None of their players have scored 10 goals or more in the Championship, but they do have a nice spread of marksmen and have also tightened up at the back.

If they can continue their strong form at Bramall Lane (which has albeit taken a hit with back-to-back losses), they may well be able to force their way into the top six.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Bournemouth (A)

April 18 - Huddersfield (H)

April 23 - Swansea (A)

April 27 - Cardiff (H)

April 30 - Stoke (H)

May 7 - Preston (A)

MILLWALL

Position: 9th

Points: 61

Top scorer: Benik Afobe (11)

At the start of the season, even Millwall fans would likely have been surprised by a play-off charge come May. However, that scenario is now within their reach.

Not burdened by lofty expectations, Gary Rowett's side remain in the edge of the scrap for the top six. Currently, they sit in ninth, four points adrift.

Their hopes were very much kept alive after they thumped Barnsley 4-1 at a raucous Den, following their disappointing three-game winless streak.

With the likes of struggling Peterborough, Hull and Birmingham still to come, Rowett will surely be telling his squad that they are still capable of an unlikely top-flight bid. 

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Preston (A)

April 18 - Hull (H)

April 23 - Birmingham (A)

April 30 - Peterborough (H)

May 7 - Bournemouth (A)

COVENTRY

Position: 10th

Points: 59

Top scorer: Viktor Gyokeres (16)

Their victory at Fulham spoke volumes: Coventry aren't giving up without a fight.

Boss Mark Robins is doing a truly superb job at the Midlands outfit, after guiding them into the second tier and then ensuring they would remain there.

And instead of them glancing nervously over their shoulders, they have instead placed their sights upwards - with six points between them and the play-offs.

They face tricky tasks against Bournemouth and Huddersfield in their run-in but, even if they were to fall out of contention, this has been a super season for them.

Remaining fixtures:

April 15 - Birmingham (A)

April 18 - Bournemouth (H)

April 23 - West Brom (A)

April 30 - Huddersfield (H)

May 7 - Stoke (A)

WHO WILL GET INTO THE PLAY-OFFS?

It is very hard to look anywhere other than the teams already occupying the top six.

Huddersfield and Nottingham Forest have enjoyed superb form in consistent batches this season, which should see them take third and fourth respectively.

In fifth, Luton do look vulnerable after not winning in their last three, but they should score enough goals to fire them to enough points to get them into the play-offs.

Sheffield United are level on points with the Hatters and could feasibly move above them - and it is unlikely that the teams below them overtake them in that final place.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-10719007/Championship-state-play-automatic-play-races-season.html

Derby Matchday Preview

Derby County v Fulham | Friday 15th April 2022 | 8pm | Pride Park | #DERFUL

The opposition

    Not many might have expected Derby to still be fighting for survival with five games to go, but it's credit to the job Wayne Rooney has done that they are still hanging on.
    It remains a tough ask for the Rams, who sit nine points behind 21st placed Reading, while Barnsley are also above them in the table with a point extra, and a game in hand.
    It's at home where Derby have enjoyed much of their success this season. Only three teams have left Pride Park with maximum points, a stat matched only by Bournemouth, West Bromwich Albion, and Preston North End.

Derby team news

Colin Kazim-Richards is out for the season with an ankle injury, while Max Bird is currently in the middle of a three game suspension.

Fulham team news

Marco Silva has a full squad to choose from, following Tom Cairney's return to fitness.

Tickets

This match is now off sale, and Derby will not be selling any tickets on the night.

Weather

A sunny day is forecast in the East Midlands, with temperatures still around the 15 degree mark come kick-off.

Permutations

Should Nottingham Forest lose in their lunchtime kick-off, a Fulham victory would seal our promotion back to the Premier League.

Coverage

As this match has been selected for live coverage on Sky Sports, we are unable to stream it on FFCtv. Commentary will be available to subscribers, though.

Player insight

Antonee Robinson knows our hosts will be fighting for their lives at Pride Park on Friday night.

"Derby are going to be coming at us," he told FFCtv. "The situation they've had this season is really unfortunate, I've been at a club where there's been money troubles and it is a shame for them.

"But they've still got every chance of staying up so they're going to be right at it."

Form

Derby: LLDWL

Fulham: DLWWL

Pre-match quotes




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/april/15/derby-matchday-preview/

EFL pundit predicts score outcome of Derby County vs Fulham

Possessing a very slim chance of escaping the Championship relegation zone, Derby County face an extremely difficult task when they welcome league leaders Fulham to Pride Park this evening.

Despite their low position, worsened by a 21-point deduction near the start of the campaign, the Rams have proven to be tough opposition on home soil and have averaged 1.85 PPG at Pride Park this season.

Wayne Rooney's side are yet to taste defeat at home against a side in the top-six, something that will provide Derby fans with some motivation ahead of yet another massive Championship fixture.

Looking to secure promotion back to the Premier League this Easter weekend, Fulham will be eager to return to winning ways after a 3-1 defeat at home to Coventry City last time out.

Issuing his score prediction via his Sky Sports column, David Prutton believes that the Cottagers will run out as 3-1 winners this evening.

The verdict

Derby's excellent home form means that they are likely to put up a big fight against the league leaders this evening.

The Rams, who would be sitting comfortably in 17th if it was not for their points deduction will be eager to give it one final push to try and survive the Championship drop.

Fulham have proven to respond excellently after disappointing results, and with the options they possess within the squad, it is hard to argue against them.

Add to that the extra motivation of winning promotion over the Easter weekend, the Whites should be able to secure maximum points.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/efl-pundit-predicts-score-outcome-of-derby-county-vs-fulham/

The suggestion that Kebano, Hector, Mawson and Seri could leave on a free this summer is surely not reasonable.
All four must , if under contract ,have a transfer value of a few million and at least could serve as good premier league bench warmers. It must be worth giving them a short contract.

"He had a great season" – Director confirms club's plan to buy Fulham man in summer

André-Frank Zambo Anguissa's desire not to play in the Championship with Fulham saw him look for a move away from Craven Cottage last summer.

After renewing his contract in August 2021, the Cottagers allowed the 26-year-old to join Napoli on a loan deal with the right of redemption.

The midfielder has impressed for the Serie A side in his debut season in Italy. The Fulham owned player has made 24 appearances in all competitions and his displays convinced the Naples club to make his stay permanent.

On April 14th, Corriere dello Sport explained the 'operation is already planned' to buy the Cameroon international in the summer for €15m and Luciano Spalletti's side will pay the fee 'in their own time'.

Claims made by the newspaper on the Italian club's desire to buy Anguissa from Fulham are backed up by Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli.

"Anguissa? He had a great season, and our will is to redeem him, but the last decision is at the end of the season, but we want to redeem him," Giuntoli told Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli's program, Radio Goal.

"We have ideas, and we already make some considerations, then we play a game too important to go on individuals and think about the collective. At the end of the season, we'll talk to everyone and see what happens."

Giuntoli is only confirming what has been widely reported in the Italy about Napoli's plan to pay Fulham to buy Anguissa.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/he-had-a-great-season-director-confirms-clubs-plan-to-buy-fulham-man-in-summer/

FLW TV's Weekend Preview: Fulham on the cusp of the Premier League as crucial Easter looms across the EFL

Fulham are looking to book their place in the Premier League next season over the Easter period.

Marco Silva's side are on the brink of confirming their promotion and can do so in what could be an epic Easter weekend right across the EFL.

In the Championship there's the promotion race still to be settled, whilst the slog for the play-offs continues.

Barnsley, Derby County and Peterborough United could all have their fate sealed at the wrong end of the division, too.

In League One, Wigan Athletic, MK Dons and Rotherham United are involved in a thrilling race for the top-two, whilst the play-off chase beneath them is also well worth watching.

Like in the Championship, there's also relegation to be settled in League One, which gives this Easter schedule added edge.

Finally, League Two follows suit in that there's much to play for at both ends of the division, with promotion and relegation on the agenda over on FLW TV's Easter Preview.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/flw-tvs-weekend-preview-fulham-on-the-cusp-of-the-premier-league-as-crucial-easter-looms-across-the-efl/

Derby County vs Fulham Preview: Shot maps, xT creation zones and more – what do the stats say?

(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Fulham-xG-1.png)

On Friday 15th April 2022, second bottom Derby County take on the league leaders Fulham in the EFL Championship. The last time these two teams met was back in November 2021 and the match ended goalless at Craven Cottage. Coming into this game, Fulham surprisingly lost 1-3 at home to Coventry City and Derby County lost 1-2 away at Swansea City.

(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Derby-xGA.png)

Derby County are coming into this game back having lost 1-2 at Swansea City. Tom Lawrence scored a penalty in what was nothing more than a consolation. That defeat leaves Derby with 12 wins, 13 draws and 16 losses to their name. Defensively, Derby have performed above the xGA mark as the latter predicted the Rams to let in 55 goals but in reality they have conceded 47 goals, an overperformance by eight goals.

(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Derby-shot-map.png)

Shown above is the shot map of Derby County from open play this season. The Rams have taken few shots from favourable positions compared to their league rivals which may explain the low goals per game of 0.97 goals per game. Tom Lawrence has been the standout performer for Derby this season in front of goal with 11 goals to his name. The Rams are hitting 32.2% of their shots on target.

(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Derby-xT-creation-zones.png)

In addition to being the top goalscorer for his team, Lawrence is also the leading assist maker for Derby. However, the most successful threat creator for the Rams has been Max Bird and most of his threat comes from corners. From open play, Nathan Byrne has created the most threat for Derby this campaign.

(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Fulham-xG-1.png)

Fulham come into this game after a shock 1-3 defeat at home against Coventry City. Bobby Reid scored for Fulham in that defeat. That defeat means Fulham have lost their seventh game this season (they have won 25 and drawn eight). The Cottagers have been by far and away the best attack in this season's EFL Championship. The Cottagers have scored 94 goals this season as against an xG of 85 goals, an overperformance of 9 goals.

(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Fulham-Team-profile-1.png)

Given above is the performances of Fulham this season relative to the rest of the league. The Cottagers have been too good this season that they are not ranked in the top 10% in only four important categories: long ball accuracy, aerial duels per 90, defensive duels per 90 padj (possession adjusted) and defensive duels success rate. The other two relatively unimportant categories where they are not in the top 10% are fouls per 90 and yellow cards per 90.

Even though this is a clash between an overperforming defence (Derby) and an overperforming attack (Fulham), it is difficult to see this match as anything other than a Fulham victory.



https://eflanalysis.com/analysis/tactical-preview/efl-championship-preview-derby-county-vs-fulham

Fulham keen on Liverpool star return as boss gives update on £7.5m Fabio Carvalho transfer deal

Fulham want to keep Neco Williams for next season after a successful loan stint in west London

Fulham are keen on keeping Wales and Liverpool star Neco Williams for another season.

The full-back joined the Cottagers on loan in January and the north Walian has made an instant impact in west London. He scored two in the 5-0 thrashing of Swansea City earlier this year and with the Londoners currently 10 points clear at the top of the Championship, it is a case of when, not if, a Premier League return is confirmed.

The Telegraph report that Marco Silva's side would like Williams to stay at Craven Cottage for their top-flight reunion, with the Reds "set to weigh up" what to do with the defender for next season. With Trent Alexander-Arnold the undisputed first-choice full-back at Anfield, another loan deal would certainly make sense.

Transfer negotiations between the two clubs have been long standing; Jurgen Klopp tried to sign Fulham's Fabio Carvalho in January, with a loan back to the Championship club set to be included in the move, but a deal could not be struck in time before the deadline. However, our colleagues at the Liverpool Echo report that a £7.5million summer transfer is now edging closer.

Silva, though, has given an update on the situation, adding that he still hopes the teenager will sign a contract extension with the club. He said: "It has been a rumour since November, probably. I am speaking every single week about Fabio Carvalho. His full focus is on our club.

"I can't lie to you, we have been trying to renew his contract and it has been really difficult for us. Unfortunately the player has got into the last year of his contract and is a player who is doing a fantastic season. I really love him as a football player and we are helping him to grow as a man and football player.

"About his future, I hope I can have a right answer for you soon - probably the end of the season. It has been tough for us to renew his contract, but let's see what we can do."

Williams is set to be part of Rob Page's summer plans as Wales aim to qualify for their first World Cup since 1958, with a play-off date with either Scotland or Ukraine now confirmed.



https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/liverpool-transfer-williams-fabio-carvalho-23701307

resh update links Fulham with Liverpool transfer raid

Fulham are interested in adding Neco Williams to the side on a permanent basis this summer.

According to the Telegraph, the London club have been impressed with his stint at Craven Cottage and are looking to keep him as part of Marco Silva's plans in the Premier League.

Williams joined Fulham on loan from Liverpool until the end of the campaign in the January transfer window.

Since then, the 21-year-old has played 11 Championship games, scoring and assisting twice to help the team in their promotion bid.

The Welsh international's performances have helped Fulham's bid to regain promotion back to the Premier League.

Liverpool have yet to make a decision as the club weighs up its options going into the summer window.

This evening's clash with Derby County could be the moment that the team seals their fate on a successful campaign.

Silva's side currently lead the Championship table, with a 16-point gap to fourth place Nottingham Forest being the biggest hurdle to promotion being sealed.

If Steve Cooper's side fail to beat Luton Town this afternoon then a victory at Pride Park would confirm Fulham's place in next season's top flight.

Fabio Carvalho is expected to go the other way in a separate move, with the 19-year-old's contract expiring at the end of the season.

The Verdict

This would be a smart addition for Fulham to make going into the Premier League.

Williams has performed well in the opportunities he has been given and this will pad out the squad nicely.

At 21-years-old, the full-back still has so much potential to still develop in his game, which is very exciting.

The decision will ultimately come down to Liverpool, but Fulham should do what they can to get this deal over the line.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fresh-update-links-fulham-with-liverpool-transfer-raid/

Luton Town 1-0 Nottingham Forest: Kal Naismith's penalty boosts the Hatters' play-off hopes as they hold on after Sonny Bradley's sending off with Fulham now able to clinch promotion to the Premier League tonight

    Luton Town boosted their top six hopes with win over Nottingham Forest
    Kal Naismith settled the contest with a penalty late in the opening half
    Hatters clung on for three points despite Sonny Bradley's sending off
    Result means that Fulham can clinch promotion if they win at Derby tonight

Beach balls, balloons and a pea-green lilo bounced around in the away end before kick-off but a little of the air has gone out of Nottingham Forest's quest for automatic promotion after they crashed to defeat at Luton.

Steve Cooper's team lost in the Championship for the first time since January, a run of five wins in a row brought to an abrupt end at Kenilworth Road, where Kai Naismith scored the only goal from the penalty spot.

It was intense and bad-tempered at times but victory keeps Luton on track for an unlikely place in the play-offs. They finished the game with 10 men after the dismissal of captain Sonny Bradley in the 77th minute but they showed their courage and unity as they held on. 

Three points lifts them above Forest and they celebrated noisily at the final whistle, with fans dreaming of reaching the Premier League for the first time still very much alive as the promotion race reaches its final stages.

Naismith's goal came from a penalty disputed by Forest. James Bree and Jack Colback set off down the Luton right, in pursuit of a long pass out of defence by Bradley. As Bree tried to cut inside, he lifted the ball up against Colback's right arm.

Without VAR in the Championship, the assistant referee on the spot flagged for an offence against, referee James Linnington noticed the Forest wing-back was just inside the penalty area and pointed to the spot.

Forest disputed the decision, claiming Bree handled the ball first but the replays supported the officials. Bree did slap the ball with his left hand but not until after it had rebounded in his direction from Colback's arm.

Naismith stepped up to take responsibility from Elijah Adebayo, who missed from the spot during a defeat at Huddersfield on Monday, and converted with confidence, sending Brice Samba the wrong way.

The home side, having started the day a place and two points behind their visitors, had been the better team until this stage. They opened brightly, with good energy and intensity giving Forest little time to settle, and roared on by a capacity crowd bathed in spring sunshine.

Luton's first penalty appeal of the day, a claim for handball against Joe Worrall was waved aside, early in the game, and Samba made a fine save with his legs to deny Fred Onyedinma from close range in the eighth minute.

Forest's best chance of the first half fell to Lewis Grabban. Released by a pass from Keinan Davis, Grabban aimed low and was foiled by James Shea, with a strong save low to his right. 

Cooper's team found a better rhythm after the interval with Brennan Johnson and Djed Spence an increasing threat on the right flank. Spence saw a goal ruled out for offside before Philip Zinckernagel wasted a glorious chance, moments after coming on.

Zinckernagel was unmarked in front of goal but was unable to generate power as he headed a floated cross from Johnson, and 'keeper Shea protected Luton's lead. Ryan Yates swept a more difficult chance wide at the near post.

Tempers frayed as Forest gathered momentum, and Luton were reduced to 10 men in the 77th minute when Bradley collected a second yellow card, a foul on Sam Surridge.

Surridge was clearly in an offside position but Bradley suspected the last touch had come from a Luton player so he blocked his run and took him out. Already cautioned in the first half for a foul on Davis, the Luton captain was sent off and his team braced to resist more pressure.

Zinckernagel struck a post in the 85th minute, a delightful flash of fast feet and curling shot from the edge of the penalty area, and Shea produced another fabulous save to frustrate Johnson in the ensuing scramble.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-10721999/Luton-Town-1-0-Nottingham-Forest-Kal-Naismiths-penalty-boosts-Hatters-play-hopes.html