Fulham make £8m opening offer for Torino star Sasa Lukic, with the Italians ready to cash in on the 26-year-old Serbia international as Marco Silva looks to bolster his midfield options
Fulham have made an opening offer of around £8m for the Serbia international
Torino reportedly close to sealing deal for Ivan Ilic which will allow Lukic to leave
Marco Silva is also looking to add Arsenal defender Cedric Soares to his side
Fulham have made an opening offer of around £8m for Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic.
The Serie A side are reportedly close to sealing a deal for Verona midfielder Ivan Ilic, which will allow 26-year-old Lukic to make his way to London.
Marco Silva's Fulham side are flying this season and find themselves seventh in the Premier League just after the halfway point in the season.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/01/27/00/67021553-11681919-image-a-12_1674780867907.jpg)
Fulham have made an opening offer of around £8m for Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic (pictured left)
Lukic is a Serbia international who featured for his country at the World Cup in Qatar last month. He is set to sign a deal at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2026, according to reports in Italy.
He can play either as a No 6 or a No 8 as Silva looks to find competition for his midfield trio of Andreas Pereira, Harrison Reed and Joao Palhinha.
Lukic has three goals and one assist in 18 appearances for Torino this season.
The long-serving Torino star has less than 18 months remaining on his contract and therefore a new challenge may appeal.
Fulham are preparing to host Sunderland in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday afternoon before they face west London rivals Chelsea - whom they beat just a fortnight ago at Craven Cottage.
Silva has not ventured into the market in this window but Fulham have been heavily linked with bringing Arsenal defender Cedric Soares in on loan.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11681919/Fulham-make-8m-opening-offer-Torino-midfielder-Sasa-Lukic.html
Fulham: Journalist shares exciting Cedric Soares update
Journalist Graeme Bailey has shared an exciting Fulham transfer update involving Arsenal defender Cedric Soares.
The Lowdown: Soares issue...
Despite talks being held over the 31-year-old's signature, with Marco Silva's side looking to sign him on loan before January 31, there has been an issue in getting it over the line in regards to loan quota rules.
Fulham already have both Shane Duffy (Brighton) and Dan James (Leeds) on temporary deals at the club and rules state English clubs can only have a maximum of two players on loan from domestic sides (Dharmesh Sheth).
As a result, to sign Soares, the Premier League side must either sign the Arsenal man permanently, offload one of James or Duffy or sign either of those players permanently instead.
The Latest: Bailey shares Soares update...
Writing on Twitter, 90min reporter Bailey has an exciting transfer update for Fulham supporters involving Soares.
The Portuguese defender is now apparently 'set to join' Silva's side as the club come up with a solution in regards to the loan quota rules.
Fulham plan to get around the legislation by making Duffy's loan move from Brighton a permanent one, freeing up space in their squad for the addition of Soares.
The Verdict: Brilliant move...
The former Southampton star could come as a very shrewd addition to Silva's roster and one with plenty of Premier League experience – not to mention international.
Soares was a member of Portugal's triumphant Euro 2016 winning-squad and played the full 90 minutes of all three group games in their 2018 World Cup campaign (Transfermarkt).
The right-back was also a regular at St. Mary's before finding regular game time difficult to come by at Arsenal.
Silva arguably needs a new full-back on the right side and one with at least some top flight pedigree, especially as a back-up alternative to the likes of Kevin Mbabu.
Soares fits the bill, especially on a fairly risk-free loan deal, with Arsenal legends even praising the player at points for his outings when giving a stable run in the first team.
Gilberto Silva hailed the defender as 'fantastic' mid-way through the 2020/2021 season and we believe he could be the ideal fit to succeed at Craven Cottage.
https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/fulham-fc-news/fulham-journalist-shares-exciting-cedric-soares-update/
Report: Fulham set to sign Leeds midfield target for a bargain £9m
Earlier in the window, Leeds United were strongly linked in Italian media with a move for Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic but now, TMW claim Premier League rivals Fulham are about to strike a deal – for a bargain £9m for the Serbia ace.
Lukic, 26, returned from the World Cup in Qatar having impressed in a disappointing Serbia side to plenty of interest in his services. It comes after more than six years at Torino, playing 167 games at the base of the Serie A side's midfield.
Italian site Torino Granata reported in December that Leeds were in pole position to sign Lukic. Rated then at a fee of £13m, Leeds were said to be the front runners to land the Torino ace. He was asking for a deal worth £33,000 a week.
However, fast forward to the latter stages of the January window, Fulham are set to strike a deal for Lukic. It is claimed that Fulham have tabled an offer worth £7million up front, plus £1.75million in add-ons. His deal ends in June 2024.
Leeds were linked with midfielder Lukic: Fulham about to strike £9m deal
Leeds have put all their eggs in one basked, in the final week of the window. Weston McKennie is said to be closing in on a move believed to be worth a fee of £26million plus add-ons. He is a step up from Lukic, but the latter is decent.
He will struggle to start for Fulham with Marco Silva's side boasting the impressive Joao Palhinha and Harrison Reed in midfield. But there is every chance that Lukic could end up coming in for Reed at some point, if Reed's form drops off.
Lukic is cheap at £9m, a far better player than the fee Fulham are paying. But the Cottagers are said to have agreed a deal and now Leeds could end up facing a player they were linked with, when Leeds face Fulham in on April 22.
https://www.leedsunited.news/news/report-fulham-set-to-sign-leeds-target-sasa-lukic-with-a-9m-deal-on-the-table/
Ranked! The 25 best players in Premier League this season so far
The Premier League season is at a halfway point – so here's our rundown of who's defined it thus far...
Usually by January, the Premier League is on the home straight. This was usually the time that Sir Alex Ferguson would metaphorically lean forward with the controller, going on a stunning second-half-of-the-season run that would leave title rivals in the dust.
Well, as you may have heard, this season is a little different. We've only just passed the halfway checkpoint for 2022/23 in the Premier League, as teams tick off their 19th game of the campaign.
Who's impressed us so far though? Who's been a standout star of their side and who's defined the season as a whole?
The best 25 players in Premier League this season so far
Eight honourable mentions...
Michael Olise
Last season, Michael Olise was on the fringes of the first XI as Patrick Vieira instilled his style into his Crystal Palace side: this season, he's raised the pulses like few others and stepped up as one of the most exciting wingers in the league.
Alexis Mac Allister
Brighton's World Cup-winning Alexis Mac Allister has been a bustle of energy and excitement to help propel the Seagulls up the table. He's been superb this season and in a Europe-chasing side, he's been a touch of class.
Andreas Pereira
Eyebrows were raised when Andreas Pereira – who decidedly average at Manchester United – joined promoted Fulham. He's been incredible at No.10 though, driving forward, connecting the dots and helping the Whites towards Europe.
Bruno Guimaraes
He should be playing higher up the pitch, according to some fans – and yet he's still been one of the most impressive defensive midfielders in the league all term. Bruno is the heartbeat of Eddie Howe's side and a big reason they're chasing Champions League football.
John Stones
Manchester City defenders seem to take their turn in the spotlight. Aymeric Laporte had his season, then Ruben Dias did – and now John Stones has been Pep Guardiola's general at the back. Brilliant all term, he's shown the grit and guile that was once missing from his game to lead City this season.
Luke Shaw
Some wondered if his days were numbered when Tyrell Malacia was joined. Luke Shaw has returned to his best, however, becoming a vital member of Erik ten Hag's side – and even slotting in at centre-back in a pinch.
Declan Rice
West Ham United have been disappointing this season, finding themselves at the wrong end of the table. New captain Declan Rice has been solid and dependable in the centre though, proving himself one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.
William Saliba
Arguably the best young defender in Europe this season, William Saliba has been calm, assured and strong at the back for Arsenal. There have been moments when he's played the offside trap, then had the recovery pace to tackle anyway: he's a monstrous prospect, still.
25. James Ward-Prowse
It's refreshing that though nothing is permanent in the modern world, James Ward-Prowse's ability to endlessly whip set-pieces onto the heads of Southampton team-mates will outlast us all. JWP has been the shining light of a drab season at St. Mary's – and goodness knows where the Saints would be without their skipper. He's been as reliable as ever and consistently puts in hard-running 7/10s, though Hasenhuttl is no longer there to bark orders to press.
24. Alisson Becker
Without Alisson, Liverpool's precarious position would likely be even worse this season. The Brazilian has performed admirably in goal for the Reds in the opening half of this campaign, constantly bailing out his defenders' shoddy defending with world-class saves.
Indeed, none of the 25 goals he has conceded have been through a mistake he has made, while he has kept out more shots than he should have based on xG against. He has even managed an assist amid the poor season Liverpool are having too, highlighting how important his distribution has been, too.
23. Moises Caicedo
The standout star of Brighton's happy ascension up the table, Moises Caicedo is an old-school, all-action midfielder who has glued the rest of this side together. He's been a lynchpin for Roberto De Zerbi, called upon in the biggest moments and it's mind-boggling that he's still just 21 years of age.
22. Gabriel Martinelli
Martinelli has really come into his own this season, playing with confidence and an attacking verve Saka is also managing to display on the opposite flank. Seven goals and two assists is a decent return for him, with Arteta clearly trusting the young Brazilian as he has started all 19 of Arsenal's games so far this season. Improved consistency to his performances in every game is now the target for Martinelli to truly kick on, and, if he manages that, then Arsenal certainly have every chance of ending the season with the Premier League trophy.
21. James Maddison
James Maddison's form before the World Cup was as good as anyone has ever been to force themselves into an England manager's thinking. He wasn't even in the conversation for Qatar at the start of the season.
Yet Madders almost singlehandedly dragged Leicester City away from the drop-zone and towards a more respectable midtable, seemingly converting Gareth Southgate into a fan at the same time. He'd be higher up this list if he hadn't have been on the treatment table quite so much.
20. Joao Palhinha
Signing Palhinha for £20 million on a five-year contract looks like an absolute steal, the defensive midfielder an imperious figure in the centre of the pitch for Fulham. A consistent starter, Palhinha breaks play up with aggression before launching attacks through his varied passing range.
Disciplined in front of the back four, his positioning allows Fulham's other midfielders and even full-backs to get forward as often as they can, safe in the knowledge Palhinha will be covering for them no matter what. He is also a threat from corners and wide free-kicks, as his three goals this season prove.
19. Oleksandr Zinchenko
Few eyebrows were raised when Manchester City sold their second-choice left-back to seemingly sit behind Kieran Tierney for a spot in Arsenal's XI – but Oleksandr Zinchenko has been game-changing for Mikel Arteta.
Allowing the table-toppers to suffocate teams in possession, the Ukrainian has drifted at will, been the decisive factor in big games and his experience has been invaluable to these young guns. One of the signings of the season – and at just £30 million.
18. Aleksandar Mitrovic
Fulham are currently sitting in seventh, above Chelsea and Liverpool, and Mitrovic is a big reason for that. 11 goals in 17 Premier League goals isn't bad for a striker written off by many as being unable to cut it in England's top flight.
While he can go missing in games at times, the fact he has played the majority of the season with a niggling ankle injury proves how willing he is to fight through the pain barrier for the West London side. Defenders often haven't been able to find a way to stop the Serbian from bullying them, while his teammates love finding him with crosses into the box.
17. Kaoru Mitoma
Kaoru Mitoma turned his back on football at 18 to go to university. It's hard to imagine just how good he could be now if he'd have stuck at it throughout.
The standout figure in Brighton's frontline – Evan Ferguson's only just broken through and Leandro Trossard has left midseason – Mitoma has been incisive, two-footed and dangerous against everyone he's faced. The Seagulls lacked goals for so long under Graham Potter: now they have one of the most exciting attackers in the league in the Japanese.
16. Rodri
A near-ever-present in Manchester City's starting line-up this season, Rodri's importance to Pep Guardiola's side is all too often underestimated. Attacks consistently and constantly pass through the Spanish ball-player, with Rodri loving to keep things ticking over with the perfect intensity required. He is also capable of finding killer passes, too, and this season has been no different as he's notched up four assists and countless other opportunities for his teammates.
15. Ivan Toney
Any chance of second season sydrome has been rubbished at the Gtech – and Ivan Toney has summed up everything brilliant about Brentford once again. His hold-up play is amongst the best in the league – see that victory over Manchester United – and he scores just about every single kind of goal. He's simply been one of the most complete strikers in Europe this season.
14. Thomas Partey
An unsung hero of Arsenal's table toppers, Partey has excelled under Mikel Arteta's system this season. Sitting at the base of Arsenal's midfield, Partey allows Martin Odegaard and Granit Xhaka to roam forward, while he patrols the back four in search of any loose ball.
Partey could perhaps feel a little aggrieved to find himself this low down the list, too, his displays this season causing Arsenal fans to worry the most about him, not any of the attackers, getting injured. The Ghanaian is also extremely capable of breaking lines with his passing and dribbling, and never gives up an opportunity to shoot, as his goal against Tottenham earlier in the season testifies.
13. Kieran Trippier
Has there been a more transformational signing to any Premier League club in the past 12 months? Bruno Guimaraes has been excellent for Newcastle United but Kieran Trippier exemplifies everything about the New Toon.
Trips is defensively impeachable, gets forward to create, shows the dynamism and gusto that Eddie Howe has built his side around and he's a leader of this burgeoning new superpower. He's become the best right-back in England since returning to the Premier League: it's like he's never been away.
12. Lisandro Martinez
When Manchester United lost their first two games of the season, to Brighton and Brentford respectively, many wrote off Martinez as being "too small" for the Premier League, and not being able to cope physically.
The scrappy Argentine has since silenced every critic wrong, though, proving Erik ten Hag was right to bring him with him from Ajax to Manchester and stick him next to Raphael Varane. United look a lot more assured with the ball at the back when Martinez is playing, in part thanks to his tremendous ability to pick passes and deal with the ball under pressure. They also look a lot stronger defensively, too, his desire to win every ball second-to-none.
11. Kevin De Bruyne
Taking the sidecar rather than the spotlight, Kevin De Bruyne has found himself on fewer backpages, thanks to his Scandi sidekick. But he's been his usual, magnificent best: changing games with a swing of either peg and providing the ammunition for the rest of Manchester City's star-studded side. He's still incredible – and has a whole other gear he's capable of stepping up to.
10. Sven Botman
There's a reason Newcastle tried so desperately to sign Botman in last year's January transfer window, before finally getting him this summer. Standing at 6'4, Botman is an imposing centre-half who has led Newcastle's charge into the Champions League-paying spots.
The 23-year-old is a major reason why Eddie Howe's side has the best defensive record in the league, conceding just 11 times in 20 games. Along with Fabian Schar and Nick Pope, Newcastle have relied on Botman's ever-dependable performances at the heart of their defence, the Dutch defender rarely ever putting a foot wrong in the 16 games he has started as he continues to live up to his £35 million price tag.
9. Granit Xhaka
The renaissance man of the Premier League has been utterly unplayable at times this season. He began life under Mikel Arteta stepping into the backline to help in build-up – now he's finishing moves off in the penalty box.
Granit Xhaka has been key to Arsenal's surprise title bid, with goals, assists and leadership in a roaming playmaker role opposite Martin Odegaard. He's reinvented himself to become one of the finest midfielders in the division and he's a fan favourite once more.
8. Casemiro
For years Manchester United have been craving a deep-lying central midfielder capable of breaking up play and quelling counter-attacks, and finally they've found their man in Casemiro. However, he has proven he is so much more than that this season, his leadership qualities and even passing range surprising many - although, playing alongside Toni Kroos and Luka Modric would cast a shadow over anyone's passing ability.
Regardless, Casemiro has been a rock in the Manchester United side, and his absence is certainly felt when missing from the team, such as against Arsenal at the Emirates. He even managed to pop up with a last-minute equaliser against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in October, prompting some euphoric and hilarious celebrations from the Brazilian. An exceptional footballer reinforcing his quality in the Premier League.
7. Nick Pope
11 goals conceded in the first half of a Premier League season is nothing short of remarkable – impressive, too, considering Nick Pope was relegated last term. Not that it was his fault, mind.
We always knew that the England custodian was a top keeper but he's taken his game to new levels at St. James' Park, becoming one of the best keepers in the Prem once more and becoming the key figure of the meanest defence in the land. You shall not pass, indeed.
6. Miguel Almiron
Some players need time to adapt to the Premier League, while some need their manager to give them a proverbial kick up the arse. Some, though, simply need a little bit of light-hearted ridicule from a certain Jack Grealish.
Ever since Grealish derogatorily compared Manchester City teammate Riyad Mahrez to Almiron in May 2022, the diminutive Paraguayan has thrived in English football. Indeed, he scored six goals in six games in October to pick up the Premier League Player of the Month award, while his finish against Fulham also earned him the Premier League Goal of the Month, too.
In total, Miggy has scored nine goals in 20 games so far this season, nailing down the right-wing spot in Newcastle's side as they fly in third-place in the table. Continued strong performances from one of their many standout players could ensure their qualification for next season's Champions League.
5. Bukayo Saka
He was creating chances from left-back to rival top playmakers. He moved to the left-wing and looked even even better. Now, he's perhaps the best right-winger in world football – and still just 21 years old.
Bukayo Saka has been unstoppable in the Premier League this season, as Arteta's Arsenal have become everything they've threatened. Defenders have stood off him (see Luke Shaw), fouled him (see all of them) and doubled up on him – but no one can foil him. He's unstoppable at his best – creative, decisive and deadly – and though the Gunners have many ways to beat a team, he's everyone's favourite. He's having the season of his life.
4. Harry Kane
It is testament to Harry Kane's immense ability that he is still thriving while his Tottenham team-mates struggle around him. The England captain has single-handedly kept Spurs' top-four ambitions alive, scoring 16 goals in the league this season already. Without Erling Haaland setting superhuman records, Kane's goalscoring record would be lauded in a defensive and uncreative Tottenham side.
After Kane, the next highest goalscorer in the Spurs squad is Heung-min Son, Rodrigo Bentancur and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, all with four apiece. Apart from missing 22 minutes at the end of September's win against Fulham, Kane has also played in every minute of every game - incredible consistency as team-mates around him flounder.
3. Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford always threatened this level of performance but could never deliver it consistently. Yet the things he's been doing this season have been world-class, as he tears through teams like a whirlwind.
He's rediscovered his best form as Manchester United have found more stability and now he's showing everyone just how good he really is – and how much he's evolved as a player since the management of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Comparisons have been made to Kylian Mbappe in terms of the power he exudes and the ability to lean back and smash with his right foot. They're more than justified: plenty have struggled to contain him this season.
His performances in big games have been the difference and when he cuts in from the left to let rip, it's simply impossible to defend against.
2. Erling Haaland
What is there really to say about this Norwegian goalscoring freak? His 25 goals - after just 20 games - is already more than the number of goals the last three golden boot winners have scored, while it seems fairly inevitable the 22-year-old will comfortably surpass Mo Salah's record of 32 goals in a 38-game season.
While he's fast on the pitch, he's also fast at breaking records, too. He reached 10 goals in his Premier League career after just six games, with it taking him just the first eight games of the season to score three hat-tricks - all coming in consecutive home games, too. Ridiculous.
For a player who's set to break every conceivable goalscoring record in the Premier League this season, only being second in this list seems, in no uncertain terms, daylight robbery. For FourFourTwo, though, he's not quite been as instrumental as our No.1...
1. Martin Odegaard
How do you compare the two foremost Norwegians in the Premier League? They're almost polar opposites. Where Erling Haaland is minimalist, generating brute force and blowing minds with his statistics, Martin Odegaard takes a little longer on the ball. He caresses it. He cannot be measured in pure output.
Simply put, Arsenal's captain has usually been the best player in every game he's been in: if he hasn't, he's been bettered by a piece of virtuoso brilliance. He's been the poster boy of this Gunners run – which at the halfway point, looks like equalling the Prem points record – and his own development has been the backbone to Arsenal becoming the best side in the league right now. This is an individual award, of course – but when both players sum up both teams, we have to give it to the leaders. Arteta is often seen talking to his "teacher's pet" from the sidelines. They share the same squad number – and Odegaard is his manager's representative in every moment.
Haaland may double the average Golden Boot tally. He makes a mockery of the award: he's making the likes of Harry Kane – having one of best seasons of his life, statistically – pale in his shadow. But this season, so far at least, Odegaard has given us artistry and excellence. And goals, too. Eight from midfield in the first half of the season. Watch out, Erling: he's coming for that Golden Boot, too.
https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/ranked-the-best-25-players-in-premier-league-this-season-so-far
Player 'close' to signing for Fulham after Silva's side tabled offer – Contract until 2026
Fulham have come forward to sign Torino's Saša Lukić in the last week of the January window.
On Thursday, multiple reports coming out of Italy stated the Premier League side are set to make an offer to Torino for the midfielder.
It was also stated there is no clarity on what the Turin club plan to do, if Fulham were to make a proposal.
According to TuttoMercatoWeb, Marco Silva's side have finally tabled an offer of €8m plus €2m bonuses for the player.
This is set to be accepted by Torino because TMW's title states the 26-year-old's move to Fulham is 'close'. Within the report, it's claimed the English club will be the midfielder's next destination.
Silva's side have also offered the Serbia international a contract until 2026 worth €2m net per year.
The Italian club are working to sign Hellas Verona's Ivan Ilić and Lukić's sale to Fulham will make room for his compatriot at Torino. This is also echoed by journalist Marco Conterio in his column for TMW.
"A young man who goes from Hellas to Turin as Ivan Ilić, also bankrolled by Saša Lukić, who will go to Fulham," Conterio said.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/players-signing-with-fulham-is-close-after-silvas-side-tabled-offer-offered-contract-until-2026/
Bennette starts: The predicted Sunderland XI to play Fulham in the FA Cup on SaturdaySunderland will be hoping to cause an upset when they travel to Premier League club Fulham tomorrow afternoon in the fourth round of the FA Cup. The Black Cats, who have adapted to life back in the second tier very well, sit three places and one point outside of the top six as things stand.
Like Sunderland, the London club are thriving after winning promotion last season. They sit seventh in the Premier League standings and are on the same number of points as Brighton in sixth.
However, form can go out the window in the FA Cup, whilst it could represent an opportunity for both managers to utilise their squads.
But for Black Cats boss Tony Mowbray, who will not have a Championship fixture after this for a week, it is a good chance to continue the momentum with a strong starting XI.
Whilst we wait and see how this clash at Craven Cottage plays out tomorrow afternoon, here, we take a look at how Sunderland could line up during their trip to the nation's capital...
(https://cdn.footballleagueworld.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Screenshot-2023-01-27-at-08.02.40.png)
If it is continuity that Mowbray is after then Anthony Patterson could be named between the sticks, although Alex Bass will be hoping for some minutes.
As for the defence, injuries and a suspension make it hard to stray away from the back four that started against Middlesbrough, with Trai Hume putting in some excellent recent displays.
There are doubts over Aji Alese after the weekend's clash with Boro, however, if deemed fit, he will likely play.
Corry Evans is now expected to miss the rest of the season in what is a big blow for the Black Cats but it could present an opportunity for Edouard Michut to start, whilst Dan Neill has been fan static recently.
Patrick Roberts' intelligence and ability to carve out chances will make him a threat against the Cottagers, whilst Amad Diallo has all the confidence in the world at the moment, and it would be no surprise to see the pair retain their places.
Jack Clarke is certainly a difference-maker but Jewison Bennette could be deployed on the left flank to add a different kind of attacking dimension.
Watched by loads of clubs at the minute, Ross Stewart should lead the line and has what is required to cause chaos in the final third.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/bennette-starts-the-predicted-sunderland-xi-to-play-fulham-in-the-fa-cup-on-saturday/
How do Fulham avoid an FA Cup upset? Jack Stroudley looks ahead to the fourth round as Sunderland make trip to Craven Cottage.
The FA Cup rolls around once again this weekend, as Sunderland make the long trip to Craven Cottage with a fifth round place up for grabs. Despite currently being separated by 22 places in the football pyramid, we have faced each other at this stage in recent history. It was back in 2015 where, despite Hugo Rodallega giving Fulham the lead, the then-Premier League outfit ran out 3-1 victors to secure a place in the fifth round. The roles are reversed this weekend as Fulham are the side looking to avoid an upset – but how do we do that?
The opposition
The Black Cats have adjusted to life back in the Championship fantastically following their promotion from League One last season. They sit just outside the play-off places, with back-to-back promotions not out of the question. I can't claim to know an awful lot about this current crop of Sunderland players, but thankfully UCFB student and Sunderland season ticket holder Kyle Garrett does, and this is who to look out for.
"Amad Diallo on loan from Manchester United has been incredible this season. How he's playing in the Championship is beyond me; some of the things he does are ridiculous. Him and Patrick Roberts (I'm sure you know all about him) bully defenders on the right side of the pitch. Ross Stewart has scored 11 goals in 14 games this season; he was out injured for three months and God knows where we'd be if he was fit the whole season!"
Sunderland will be travelling down in numbers this weekend, with 6,000 tickets being allocated to them, and while they will want to keep their league form up this is an opportunity to face off against a Premier League side and see how they match up. When asked for the fan's expectation for this Saturdays' fixture this is what Kyle had to say:
"I think we have a real chance of causing an upset. If Fulham don't take us seriously, we could take you back to the Stadium of Light at the very least. We've been really good away from home this season, it should be a good game."
How do we prepare?
It would be naiive and disrespectful of me to imply that Fulham should play a weakened squad for this tie. There's no pressure on Sunderland this weekend mixed, and with a packed out Putney End, it does have all the makings of a potential banana skin for Fulham.
I think Silva will be aware of this and with our survival all but guaranteed it wouldn't shock me if Fulham played a strong side for this fixture. In terms of a starting XI, I would go with the below:
(https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/SenOPzAL.jpg)
My starting XI vs Sunderland
The main player for me is Manor Solomon. Our attack has been quite stale over the past few weeks and with the Israeli finally back from injury, this tie gives him a golden opportunity to get a large chunk of minutes in a Fulham shirt. Harry Wilson has been relatively poor this season and hopefully minutes against a lower league side will help give him confidence.
The other two worth mentioning are Vinicius coming in for Mitrovic, who picked up a slight knock against Spurs, and De Cordova-Reid for Tete feels inevitable to me with the Dutchman being slightly injury-prone – I think giving him a rest is necessary.
The final verdict
Just because Sunderland aren't a Premier League team it doesn't mean that this will be a walk in the park, the way that I thought our third round trip to Hull City would be. Sunderland are a strong side, firing on all cylinders and as mentioned will come into this game with a packed out away end with no fear. I think Fulham win... but only just.
https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-01-27-how-do-fulham-avoid-an-fa-cup-upset/
Sasa Lukic asks for Fulham transfer to link up with Aleksandar Mitrovic in £8m deal
Torino midfielder could be one of a few late transfer deals for Fulham
Sasa Lukic has told Torino he wants to join Fulham amid the Whites' push to seal an £8million deal for the Serbia midfielder.
The 26-year-old would relish linking up his compatriot and Serbia teammate Aleksandar Mitrovic at Craven Cottage, Standard Sport understands.
Lukic has been at Torino since 2016, and featured in all of Serbia's matches at the Qatar World Cup. The versatile midfielder has the work rate to feature in a holding role, but is often deployed further upfield.
Fulham boss Marco Silva still hopes to complete a January loan swoop for Arsenal's Cedric Soares, with a right-back having been a priority recruitment area in this month's window.
The Cottagers have also signalled their interest in Fluminense midfielder Andre.
The 21-year-old has caught Fulham's eye and talks are thought to have been held over a transfer that could rise as high as £16million. But Fluminense are intent on retaining one of their top talents until at least the summer.
Fulham can expect a struggle to prise the highly-rated star away from his home country now, but are thought to be prepared to follow up again at the end of the campaign.
The Londoners will host Sunderland in the FA Cup fourth-round on Saturday, bidding to hit back after Monday's 1-0 home Premier League loss to Tottenham.
Boss Silva could look to rotate resources for the cup encounter, with the likes of Harry Wilson and Tom Cairney both eyeing starts.
The Portuguese manager was again buoyed by a combative performance against Spurs, but has challenged his players to cut out lapses in concentration and the kinds of minor errors that mount up.
Tomorrow's lower-league opponents in the shape of Sunderland will afford Silva the chance to hand some fringe players an opportunity to state their case for future selection.
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/lukic-fulham-transfer-news-mitrovic-b1056030.html
West Brom on verge of signing Fulham midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah on permanent basis
West Brom are close to signing Fulham's 28-year-old midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah on a permanent deal, according the journalist Mike Keegan.
The former Chelsea midfielder has been at Craven Cottage since the summer of 2021 but has only featured four times in the Premier League in the 2022/23 campaign.
Daily Mail journalist Keegan has suggested (Twitter, 27 January) the Baggies are on the verge of landing the 28-year-old on an 18-month contract.
Impressive
Midfield depth is exactly what the Baggies needed and the 28-year-old comes with a wealth of experience which could be vital in Albion's promotion push. Okay Yokuslu and Jayson Molumby have been an impressive midfield pairing of late, but added depth and quality is certainly not a bad thing for Carlos Corberan to call upon.
https://www.westbromnews.co.uk/2023/01/27/west-brom-on-verge-of-signing-fulham-midfielder-nathaniel-chalobah-on-permanent-basis/
West Brom set to seal agreement for Fulham player
West Brom are close to completing the signing of Fulham midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah, Daily Mail journalist Mike Keegan has reported.
Chalobah joined Fulham from Watford back in the summer of 2021, and helped the Cottagers comfortably claim the Championship title last season.
However, the midfielder has found game time hard to come by in the Premier League this season, where he has featured just four times for Marco Silva's side.
As a result, with his contract at Craven Cottage expiring in the summer, it now looks as though the 28-year-old is set to secure a return to the Championship, in the final days of the January window.
According to this latest update, West Brom are now closing in on the signing of Chalobah, in an 18-month deal that would keep the former England international at The Hawthorns until the end of next season.
If confirmed, Chalobah could become the Baggies' first senior signing of the January transfer window, as they look to continue their climb up the Championship table since the appointment of Carlos Corberan as head coach.
The Verdict
This does look as though it could be a very good signing for West Brom if completed.
The Baggies are somewhat short on depth in the centre of the park you feel, so it could make sense to bring in someone such as Chalobah to give them an extra option in that role.
Indeed, with the club now firmly aiming for promotion under Corberan, the 28-year-old's experience both in getting to the Premier League, and staying at that level, could be a big asset for them.
As a result, it feels like West Brom may be about to complete a smart piece of business here, especially considering Chalobah's contract situation means he should not be an expensive signing.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/west-brom-set-to-seal-agreement-for-fulham-player/
Report: After talks with Leeds, 'excellent' player is set to sign for Fulham
According to TuttoMercatoWeb, Fulham are close to signing Sasa Lukic from Torino.
The midfielder, who is a teammate of Aleksandar Mitrovic at international level, has been linked to Leeds and West Ham recently.
Leeds reportedly held talks with the Serbian last month, but it seems as though he's now set for a move to Craven Cottage.
Fulham are in desperate need of midfield depth, especially after being forced to register Josh Onomah, who trained on his own in pre-season and wasn't a part of Marco Silva's initial plans.
Lukic would likely arrive as an understudy to Harrison Reed, and his arrival could solve Fulham's ongoing issues with penalties. Lukic has scored four penalties and missed none in his career, meaning that he could replace Aleksandar Mitrovic as the team's designated taker.
The 26-year-old has made 150 appearances for Torino in Italy's Serie A, and has also represented his country at the World Cup. He is known for his tireless work rate and ability to control the tempo of the game, which would be a valuable asset for Silva's side.
In addition to Lukic, Fulham are also reportedly interested in signing right-back Cedric Soares. This move would make sense as the Whites desperately need depth at right-back after Kevin Mbabu fell out of favour, and Soares' experience at this level would make him a welcome addition.
Described as 'excellent' in the past, Lukic brings a wealth of top-level experience to this midfield, which is exactly what the club needs as they push for a European spot.
Fulham have been the surprise package of the Premier League so far, and they'll be hoping that the addition of Lukic gives them the extra dynamic needed to kick on and make this campaign one to remember.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/01/27/report-after-talks-with-leeds-excellent-player-is-set-to-sign-for-fulham/
West Brom close to Chalobah capture
West Bromwich Albion are close to concluding a deal to take Nathaniel Chalobah to the Hawthorns, according to the Daily Mail's Mike Keegan.
The England international has struggled for game time since moving to Craven Cottage on a free transfer from Watford in 2021 and has made only six appearances for Fulham this season. His cause was not helped by being sent off for a horrible challenge early in the 4-1 home defeat by Newcastle in October.
The 6ft 2in central midfielder would add depth to Carlos Corberan's squad and has the experience winning both the Premier League with Chelsea and the Championship at Fulham last season. He is expected to sign an eighteen-month contract. Chalobah, whose chances of regular football were not helped by the arrival of Joao Palhinha from Sporting this summer, has made 28 appearances in total for the Whites without ever recapturing the form that saw him win an England cap in 2018.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/west-brom-close-to-chalobah-capture/
Lukic set for Fulham switch
Sasa Lukic seems set to join Fulham in an initial £8m deal after the Serbian midfielder told Torino that he wanted to move to London.
The 26 year-old midfielder, who has spent seven years with the Serie A club, had been made available for transfer earlier in the January window and is keen to join his international team-mate Aleksandar Mitrovic at Craven Cottage. Lukic, who has made 161 appearances and scored fourteen goals for I Granata, would an extra option in a number of midfield positions for head coach Marco Silva, who is keen to get this deal concluded as soon as possible. He can play as a defensively-minded midfielder, a box-to-box operator or as an attacking playmaker.
Lukic, who has won 35 senior caps for his country, featured in all of Serbia's matches at the World Cup in Qatar this winter. Reports from Italy suggest that Fulham have already agreed personal terms with the player over a four-year contract.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/lukic-set-for-fulham-switch/
Report explains why Fulham cannot sign £18m Andre Trindade this month
Fluminense starlet Andre Trindade admits that he has an offer to leave the Brazilian outfit but Premier League high-flyers Fulham will wait until the later in 2023 to secure a potential £18 million transfer, as reported by Globo Esporte.
With Liverpool, Barcelona and perennial talent-spotters Ajax among those who have shown an interest in Andre over the last 12 months or so, this could be a coup in line with the deal that saw Portugal international Joao Palhinha head to Craven Cottage last summer.
According to Globo Esporte, having spoken to sources close to the player, Fulham have indeed submitted an £18 million bid for 21-year-old Andre.
The coveted midfielder will not be going anywhere, however, before next week's deadline. Fluminense have no intention of selling this month. Furthermore, Financial Fair Play restrictions will prevent Fulham from splashing out a near-£20 million fee for Andre in this window.
This is a deal you can expect to see revisited at some point down the line; Fulham laying the early groundwork.
Fulham keen to sign Fluminense's Andre Trindade after Barcelona, Ajax and Liverpool links
"Obviously, I'm focused and very happy. I just renewed my contract until 2026. That's what matters," Andre admits after Thursday's 1-1 draw with Botafogo.
"It's normal to get an offer (from another club)."
Fluminense's number seven is at his most comfortable in a deep-lying central midfield role. But he is more than your typical ball-winner. Andre loves to get his foot on the ball and dictate the play, with those raking passes or slaloming runs.
The one-time Barca target could slot in alongside Palhinha in the heart of Marco Silva's rock-solid engine room; given the freedom by the Portuguese powerhouse to push on and join the attack in a manner similar to that of the buzzing Harrison Reed.
"We have an agreement with him that, in 2023, he will stay here to play in the Copa Libertadores," Fluminense president Mario Bittencourt said recently (Netflu).
"And, at the end of 2023, we will evaluate whether interesting offers arrive. But, for sure, during 2023 Andre will not be sold and will stay with us throughout the year."
"It was a very special year for me," Andre himself tells GE. "I found out that I'm going to be a father. I was a champion for the first time in the professional game. And I heard my name being sung in the Maracana.
"Winning the Carioca (the Rio state championship), was an important moment in my career."
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/01/27/report-explains-why-fulham-cannot-sign-18m-andre-trindade-this-month/
'This should be light work' – Fulham v Sunderland prediction: The72
Fulham host Sunderland in the FA Cup this weekend.
Fulham sit 7th in the Premier League, something not many people saw coming at the start of the campaign.
Marco Silva's side have defied the odds and often put in impressive performances against the top teams in the country. They have lost their past two to Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, but they'll see this weekend as the perfect time to return to form.
Tony Mowbray's Sunderland are doing a similar thing following their promotion. They sit just a point outside the top-six and have some exciting young talent who are capable of creating moments of brilliance. Sunderland's squad is a bit thin at the moment though and Mowbray may look to rotate here.
Ahead of the clash, a handful of The72's writers have given their predictions...
Thomas Kelly-Hansford
Fulham stormed the Championship last season and they are even better now, so on paper this should be light work. Silva has his side playing free-flowing football with a mix of experience and youth in the squad.
"Whilst Sunderland are against the odds, their players will relish the opportunity to show their worth against a side who won the Championship less than a year ago. It may be an opportunity for some players to prove their worth ahead of a busy Championship period, and for others a chance to prove they can play against top flight opposition.
Both sides will look to play and they'll both create chances, I think it'll be a really good game. However, I can see the quality of Fulham just edging them over the line this weekend."
Score prediction: Fulham 2-1 Sunderland
James Ray
Although Sunderland have been impressive of late, I do think the Premier League side will be able to progress here.
"Much of the attention has been on the likes of Newcastle United and Brighton when it comes to Premier League clubs to have surprised this season but Fulham serious deserve their plaudits. They've been fantastic this campaign and an FA Cup run would only further boost morale.
"I expect Sunderland to take the game to them and while they might be able to spring a surprise, I will back the Cottagers."
Score prediction: Fulham 3-2 Sunderland
https://the72.co.uk/2023/01/27/this-should-be-light-work-fulham-v-sunderland-prediction-the72/
Fulham in advanced talks for Lukic: Torino's asking price revealed
Fulham are in advanced talks to sign Sasa Lukic from Torino and according to Tuttosport, a deal can be finalised for €12m.
Multiple reports in Italy claimed on Thursday that the Cottagers had offered €8m plus €2m add-ons for the Serbia international.
It is still not enough for Torino who, according to Tuttosport, are open to selling Lukic, but only for €12m.
Sky Sport Italia, Fabrizio Romano and Tuttosport believe a deal can be finalised soon as talks between the two parties are progressing well.
Lukic asked to leave Torino in August, just days before their season debut against Monza.
For this reason, he was stripped of the captain's armband and frozen out of the team but was then reintroduced after apologising to coach Ivan Juric.
However, talks over a new deal haven't progressed and with a contract expiring in 18 months, Torino are open to selling their midfielder especially after securing the services of Ivan Ilic from Hellas Verona.
?
https://football-italia.net/fulham-in-advanced-talks-for-lukic-torinos-asking-price-revealed/
"Seems a very smart move" – West Brom set for Fulham loan agreement: 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...
West Brom are closing in on the loan signing of Nathaniel Chalobah from Fulham on an 18-month deal.
According to Mike Keegan, the two teams are on the verge of an agreement that will bring the 28-year old to the Hawthorns.
Here we ask our FLW writers their verdict on whether Chalobah will be a good addition to the Championship side...
Brett Worthington
This is a significant signing for West Brom.
It is clear to see that Albion are quite short in terms of depth and quality in the midfield area, so it is no surprise that they are keen on bolstering it.
If they manage to do that in terms of landing Nathaniel Chalobah, then that would be a really good signing.
Chalobah has struggled for a while now in terms of game time at Fulham, and at the age of 28, he needs to be playing regular football.
So it is no surprise to see him leave Fulham and drop down a division.
The midfielder will bring with him valuable experience at this level, as West Brom are trying to get out of the league.
Chalobah is a player that knows what it takes to do that, and his experience in the Premier League would set them in good stead should they gain promotion this season.
It seems a very smart move on all counts, as his contract is up in the summer, so you would expect it to be a low-cost signing, and with Albion needing midfield reinforcements and getting that in a player like Chalobah, it seems to tick the boxes.
Justin Peach
West Brom signing Chalobah would be a good signing for most sides in the Championship given his quality and experience.
Firstly, he's got previous when it comes to competing in sides challenging for promotion, with spells at Watford and Fulham supporting that.
As well as that, he boasts several key attributes that West Brom need in their midfield. He's a defensive midfielder that is a tidy passer.
With the likes of Okay Yokuslu, Jayson Molumby, and Jake Livermore being ball-winners, having a passer in that position will allow for greater control in games.
His experience of Premier League football, as well as being involved in promotion races will prove invaluable for a side gunning for a finish within the top six.
Sure, his lack of games recently could prove problematic, but when he gets up to speed, he will be a very good player at Championship level.
His skill set is certainly needed and could prove to have a significant impact on winning games for the Baggies.
Declan Harte
West Brom's midfield options are solid at the moment, with Jayson Molumby really standing out in recent weeks.
But that John Swift has played in a deeper role at times this season does suggest another reinforcement could be needed.
Chalobah on loan is a decent signing and should bring plenty to the table over the 18-months he is set to join for.
The 28-year-old has plenty of Premier League experience and knows what it takes to help a team to promotion from the second tier.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/seems-a-very-smart-move-west-brom-set-for-fulham-loan-agreement-the-verdict/
Tony Mowbray urges Sunderland to embrace 'great test' against Fulham in FA Cup
Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray believes their FA Cup fourth-round clash with Fulham provides a "great test" for his side against Premier League opposition.
Two stoppage-time goals saw the Black Cats edge to a 2-1 victory in the third round against League One outfit Shrewsbury and set up a visit to Craven Cottage on Saturday.
The Cottagers, who are seventh in the top flight, knocked out Hull in the previous round and Mowbray is looking forward to the challenge.
"We want to try and do well but we have to put into context that we are playing a team that are one of the form teams in the Premier League at this moment," said Mowbray, whose side are ninth in the Sky Bet Championship.
"They've lost two really tight games, but I've watched both of those games and they probably didn't deserve to lose either of them.
"I think the balance for their manager is do they try and find a winning way again or do they look to the next league game?
"Whoever they play, whatever team they put out, they are going to be really difficult to play against and we should be ready for that. I don't see it as a game to put all the kids in and it doesn't really matter.
"On the back of a huge travelling support, we should go and be competitive against a really good team on a high at the moment and go to see where we are, check our credentials to see if we can compete with a team flying in the Premier League at the moment.
"We will go and hopefully it is a good experience for the young players and it's a great test for us all to test ourselves against a team who are doing really well in the Premier League."
The FA Cup has a rich history and 2023 marks 50 years since Sunderland last lifted the trophy, with Ian Porterfield's strike proving the difference to beat First Division side Leeds in the final.
Mowbray reminisced on his own memories of "an amazing competition".
He said: "I think it's probably a generational thing, people of my generation still see it as an amazing competition, the world's greatest competition once upon a time.
"I think probably the whole world stopped in the '70s when I was a kid growing up, I know I've talked about the experiences in my household, the curtains were drawn, the lager cans were out, the sandwiches were made, the pork pies were ready and everyone was around.
"An army of men from the pub came to our house and watched the Cup final and it was just a real occasion, it used to be the biggest game in the world I think.
"Here you are generations on and it doesn't feel as important as other games, to the point where it got changed to a 5pm kick-off not too long ago.
"I think anybody who really loves football, it's a massive tournament, it's still something you should want to try and win."
https://www.irishnews.com/sport/footballsoccer/2023/01/27/news/tony_mowbray_urges_sunderland_to_embrace_great_test_against_fulham_in_fa_cup-3022446/
How Fulham will treat Sunderland FA Cup tie as Patrick Roberts prepares for Craven Cottage return
Sunderland are preparing to face Premier League side Fulham in the FA Cup – but what can they expect?
Despite back-to-back defeats against Newcastle and Tottenham, Marco Silva's side are seventh in the top-flight, following last season's promotion from the Championship.
To find out more we caught up with The Athletic's Fulham reporter Peter Rutzler on the latest episode of The Roar Podcast.
How seriously will Fulham take the FA Cup?
PR: "I think they will take it quite seriously.
"Because of where they are and they have this sizable gap to the bottom three, they are on 31 points so are three wins away from 40. It gives them a bit more licence to take the cup competition a bit more seriously.
"The third-round win over Hull was quite informative as it was a very senior team, you had some regulars starting and they also have some good rotation options.
"I think there will be some rotation and would be surprised if we saw Aleksandar Mitrovic who probably needs a break.
"In terms of the rest of the squad they have talent who need minutes to play."
Who are some of the players who could get an opportunity?
PR: "Up front I think Carlos Vinicius will get another run out.
"He scored the winning goal against Chelsea in the local derby here which means a lot to Fulham supporters – they hadn't won that game since 2006.
"Another one to look out for is Manor Solomon, he signed in the summer and played briefly against Liverpool on the opening day and then was injured the next day and has been out for about four months.
"He's now back and has been building up his minutes slowly. Against Tottenham he looked really lively from the bench.
"There are others like Harry Wilson who have a point to prove. He was brilliant in the Championship last year but hasn't had a chance really to make a mark on the Premier League."
What formation will Fulham play?
PR: "Since day one Marco Silva has played the same system no matter who is playing.
"It sets up as a 4-2-3-1 but it's like a 4-3-3 with Andreas Pereira in that three who gets closer to Mitrovic as a number No 8 / No 10.
"Harrison Reed tends to be on the other side and Joao Palhinha is the holding midfielder.
"I'd imagine it will be the same system and can't see it changing for this game."
How is former Fulham academy graduate Patrick Roberts remembered there?
PR: "He was part of a team which reached the FA Youth Cup final and was probably one of the first sort of very exciting prospects that got everyone talking.
"Roberts made some first-team appearances under Felix Magath and Kit Symons and before you knew it he was whisked away to Manchester City.
"Fulham fans will remember him because they'll probably think of him in terms of what if and maybe he could have played more games for them.
"His talent at youth level was undoubted but it just hasn't quite worked out for him since. It seems like it has taken a bit of time for him to find somewhere where he's settled and has been quite good to see he's found a home at Sunderland."
https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/how-fulham-will-treat-sunderland-fa-cup-tie-as-patrick-roberts-prepares-for-craven-cottage-return-4003593
Sunderland: Patrick Roberts returns to Fulham having found new home
(https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/resources/images/16398105.jpg?type=mds-article-962)
Sunderland's Patrick Roberts (Image: Ian Horrocks)
PATRICK Roberts was 18 with only 22 senior games under his belt when Manchester City forked out £11m to sign him from Fulham back in 2015.
He would only play once for City with the next few years spent largely living out of a suitcase. Six loans in total, Roberts went from Scotland to Spain to France with a few stop-offs in the English Championship along the way.
Now 25, Roberts returns to where it all started this weekend, Craven Cottage. And he does so finally feeling settled, happy and as though his career is back on track.
After his stints at Celtic, Girona, Norwich, Middlesbrough, Derby and Troyes, Roberts was sick of loans and instead wanted security. When Sunderland moved to sign the young forward on a permanent deal last year, he jumped at the chance.
And it's the best decision he's made. For while Roberts grew up just a stone's throw away from the stadium in which he'll play on Saturday afternoon, at Sunderland he finally feels like he's found a new home.
"It's the first time since Fulham where I've stayed in one spot and can get settled and can get on with my football," says Roberts ahead of the FA Cup fourth round clash.
"When you're on the road so much and moving to different clubs, it doesn't set your mind right. You want to be settled and play and enjoy your football. When the chance came (to join Sunderland) last season I jumped at it and I'm really enjoying it, I'm doing well, it's all positive."
Indeed. Roberts has featured in 24 of Sunderland's 28 Championship games this season, scoring three goals and creating another four. He suits Mowbray's style of play and is flourishing under the head coach.
Roberts says: "He's a great man manager and player coach, he wants to get the best out of players and wants them to improve and get the best out of themselves for their sake as well as the club.
"We have quite a few young players and they're all buying into it. They're just feeding off the confidence. Football is a confidence game. The whole club is doing well and it feeds down."
When he was 17, Roberts was one of the most sought-after talents in England. He'd helped Fulham to the FA Youth Cup final, made his first team debut away at Manchester City and was described by Felix Magath as an "extraordinary talent" who would go on and play for England.
"It was huge to make my debut, going from Sunday League a few years before and being new in the academy system to playing against one of the best teams in the league, it was surreal," Roberts tells Fulham's website, reminiscing on his breakthrough.
Fulham were relegated that season and Roberts played 20 times in the Championship the following campaign before Manchester City swooped.
Roberts says: "Breaking through into the Fulham first team was a dream and to make my debut was a blessing. Then the following season it was great to get more games. I was still only young and after being in the Premier League for so long and going down, it was quite tense at the club. You need experienced players, I was only young, I knew how good I was but I knew the club was in a transition period.
"In the end, we parted ways, but I enjoyed that season, my first full season as a pro."
Roberts went to City for big money hoping to kick-on and reach his potential but it never quite worked out for him at the Etihad.
He says: "If you had a crystal ball you'd see things differently but as a kid you see Man City and jump at the chance.
"Credit to Fulham for letting me go. It was down to me to make something of it. Football is ups and downs. I'm in a place now where I'm enjoying my football, enjoying being back on the pitch and playing every week, it's nice."
And he's looking forward to his Craven Cottage return.
"I loved my time at Fulham," he says.
"When the draw was made, I think a lot of the Sunderland fans were hoping for a Premier League side, and Fulham came out. It'll be good to go back to the Cottage for me, but it's also a good test.
"Fulham are flying but we're doing well ourselves. It will be a good test to see how we fare and we're all looking forward to it.
"All my family are delighted, it's just down the road. It's where it started for me, so it will be nice to go back there for what is a big game."
https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/23281029.sunderland-patrick-roberts-returns-fulham-found-new-home/
Buy Before Matchday & Save!(https://images.webapi.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1600x1600/746969a0-9e49-11ed-80f1-dd12a2d34d95.jpg)
Secure your seat for tomorrow's Emirates FA Cup fixture with Sunderland before 9am on matchday to take advantage of advanced ticket prices!Supporters are reminded that tickets for our Fourth Round tie, kick-off 3pm, will increase by £10 for adults and concessions, and £5 for juniors from 9am on Saturday 28th January.
| CATEGORY | ADVANCE PRICE | MATCHDAY PRICE* |
| Adult | £30 | £40 |
| Concessions (65 & Over, 18-21 Years) | £10 | £20 |
| Juniors (17 years and under) | £5 | £10 |
To secure your seat, buy tickets online at tickets.fulhamfc.com, by phone on 0203 871 0810 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9:30am-4:30pm).
Don't miss live Emirates FA Cup action at Craven Cottage!
BUY ONLINE
Further matchday information can be found here.
*Tickets on matchday are subject to availability.https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/january/27/buy-before-matchday-and-save/
Kurzawa: Win and Progress(https://images.webapi.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1600x1600/ba2689a0-9e30-11ed-bf6a-7ba1336498b8.jpg)
Ahead of our FA Cup Fourth Round test against Sunderland on Saturday, we caught up with Layvin Kurzawa on how he is enjoying life in South West London under Marco Silva.
"I feel very good here," started Layvin. "London, Fulham, is a very good area. My family, we feel good here."
Should he feature in tomorrow's fixture, it is another opportunity for Layvin to get some minutes in the legs following on from his appearances against Hull City and Newcastle United earlier in the month.
"I've waited for this moment since a long time," he said. "Now I play, not every game but I try to enjoy when I play.
"It was my first 90 minutes for a long time [against Newcastle]. We played against a very strong team, so I was very happy."
The left-back featured in our previous FA Cup fixture at Hull City and managed to get himself on the scoresheet when in the 37th minute, he got on the end of a parried save from a Harry Wilson shot to put us one up in the game.
"I was very, very, very happy to score and win with the team," Layvin described. "It was my first time with Fulham.
"I hope tomorrow we can win again and if I can score, I will be happy.
"All my career I have scored so many goals but it's not my first job. My first job is to defend and help the team."
On Saturday's opponent: "It's a big game for us and for Sunderland.
"The FA Cup is a big cup but tomorrow we need to win and progress.
"I'm happy because my family will be there for the first time so I need to enjoy and win tomorrow.
"Big crowd, big stadium, very good atmosphere. We just need to win and enjoy.
"Win, win, win, win, win."
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/january/27/Kurzawa-Win-and-Progress/
Chris Sutton issues Sunderland FA Cup prediction ahead of Fulham cup clash
The FA Cup action returns this weekend with Sunderland's visit to Craven Cottage.
Both clubs have enjoyed a successful first season following promotion which has included progression to the fourth round of the famous cup competition.
Neither side faced too much trouble in the third round.
The Black Cats eased past Shrewsbury Town with a late comeback victory, and Fulham earned a 2-0 win over Hull City.
Chris Sutton has predicted an even more comfortable affair for Marco Silva's side this time around, claiming the Cottagers will win 3-0 on Saturday.
Tony Mowbray's side will be hoping to earn a fifth round berth with an upset away win, but the former forward hasn't given the Championship side much of a chance against the 7th place Premier League side.
"This tie takes Sunderland winger Patrick Roberts back to the club where he began his career," wrote Sutton, via the BBC.
"Along with in-form Black Cats striker Ross Stewart, he will be a handful, but I still fancy Fulham to progress.
"Marco Silva's side have lost their past two Premier League games but they are having a very good season.
"They always have a go at teams, and they will be up for this."
"Marco Silva's side have lost their past two Premier League games but they are having a very good season.
"They always have a go at teams, and they will be up for this."
The Verdict
Saturday's game will be played by two teams enjoying a solid rise up the English pyramid this season.
Given Fulham's relative safety in the Premier League, it would be worthwhile putting everything into this tie in order to provide the fans a fun cup run.
With the number of big clubs experiencing a down year, it could even be a good opportunity for an unusual winner of the competition, which Fulham could position themselves as with a win in this game.
But Sunderland are in solid form and have become difficult to beat, so this may not be as straightforward as Sutton has predicted.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/chris-sutton-issues-sunderland-fa-cup-prediction-ahead-of-fulham-cup-clash/
Fulham hoping to seal seven-figure transfer deal as midfielder is linked with exit
Latest news on the transfer front involving Fulham as they some additions
Fulham are reportedly working on a deal to sign Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic before the end of the January transfer window. The Cottagers are keen to land the Serbia international to bolster their options in the middle of the park.
According to reporter Fabrizio Romano on Twitter (see below), Marco Silva's side are 'insisting' on a deal after lodging a €8million bid earlier this week. He has been playing in Italy since 2016 but could now have a Premier League switch on the horizon if the Whites can get their man.
Lukic played with Aleksandar Mitrovic at Partizan when they were both youngsters and they have been Serbia teammates over recent years. He has made 161 appearances for Torino in all competitions to date and has scored 14 goals.
It could be a case of one midfielder incoming and one heading out with Nathaniel Chalobah linked with Championship play-off hopefuls West Brom. However, BirminghamLive claim although the Baggies are interested, Fulham are 'reluctant' to let him leave at this moment in time as he provides depth to the squad. Josh Onomah seems a more likely option to leave this winter.
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-hoping-to-seal-seven-figure-transfer-deal-whilst-midfielder-is-linked-with-exit-4004398
Kurzawa eyes Cup run
Layvin Kurzawa admits his goal in Fulham's third round victory over Hull City has whetted the appetite for an FA Cup run.
The French full back opened the scoring with a predatory strike at the MKM Stadium and he is hoping to continue his golascoring exploits against Sunderland at Craven Cottage tomorrow. Kurzawa, on loan from PSG, told the club's official website:
"I was very, very happy to score and win with the team. It was my first time with Fulham. I hope tomorrow we can win again and if I can score, I will be very happy. All my career I have scored so many goals but it's not my first job. My first job is to defend and help the team.
"It's a big game for us and for Sunderland. The FA Cup is a big cup but tomorrow we need to win and progress. I'm happy progress my family will be there for the first time so I need to enjoy it and win tomorrow. Big crowd, big stadium, very good atmosphere. We just need to win and enjoy. Win, win, win, win, win."
The France international admits he is enjoying life in London and at Fulham specifically having started to feature in the first team more regularly after overcoming his injury worries.
"I feel very good here. London, Fulham, is a very good area. My family – we feel good here. I've waited for this moment since a long time. Now I play, not every game but I try to enjoy when I play. It was my first ninety minutes [against Newcastle] for a long time. We played against a very strong team, so I was very happy."
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/kurzawa-eyes-cup-run/
Marco Silva hoping for two new Fulham signings before end of transfer window
Marco Silva is hoping to add two new players to his Fulham squad before the January transfer window closes.
The Cottagers have exceeded all expectations in the Premier League this season and currently sit in seventh place, two points above Liverpool and Chelsea.
However, Fulham boss Silva still wants to welcome new additions at Craven Cottage before Tuesday, although he would not reveal who he was targeting.
"(I am hoping we will sign) two players, probably two players," Silva said.
"If you ask me if I'm thinking we are close to finishing something, we should be because a few more days and the market is going to close.
"We should be closer, and we hope that we can do something before the end of the market.
"Probably some players they can go and probably two players they should come and they should sign deals before the end of the market, but we will see and we can hope."
Fulham host Sunderland in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday looking to return to winning ways after two successive 1-0 defeats in the Premier League against Newcastle and Tottenham.
Silva insisted his team will take the match against the Sky Bet Championship side seriously having already beaten Hull in the third round.
"It's our ambition to do well definitely in the FA Cup," Silva said.
"(It's) a really important competition for all clubs but, when we are looking for ourselves, it is a competition that we are going to do our best to go through in.
"Of course it is a special one and it's something that I have mentioned for our players, the first time we played against Hull and tomorrow will be the same way.
"We will prepare this one like we prepared the one in the Premier League and it's the same way that we have prepared ourselves and for us it's really important."
https://www.irishnews.com/sport/footballsoccer/2023/01/27/news/marco_silva_hoping_for_two_new_fulham_signings_before_end_of_transfer_window-3022743/
Fulham closing in on signing Sasa Lukic
Fulham are reportedly closing in on signing Sasa Lukic after Serie A outfit Torino got a replacement in place for the 26-year-old midfielder.
According to Tutto Mercato Web, Fulham are inching closer to signing Sasa Lukic from Torino before the transfer deadline. The Serbian midfielder is reportedly keen on the move, and the Serie A outfit are getting closer to signing a replacement this month.
A transfer domino involving Fulham and Torino may see a conclusion in the coming days. The Cottagers have wanted to bring 26-year-old Serie A midfielder Sasa Lukic to Craven Cottage. But any move hinged on Torino getting a replacement before the transfer deadline.
They have managed to find one on Lukic's compatriot Ivan Ilic, who plays for Hellas Verona. Ilic was close to joining Marseille. The French giants had a deal reportedly agreed with Hellas Verona, but the move was only supposed to happen in the summer. However, Torino have swooped in late and managed to hijack the transfer.
Ilic's potential arrival in Turin could pave the way for Lukic to seal his transfer with Fulham hot on his heels. As reported earlier, the Cottagers were to make an €8 million bid for the 26-year-old midfielder. The offer is significantly lower than his market value listed on Transfermarkt.
Moreover, they were willing to offer around €2 million per season in net salary to the Serb. Whether or not that offer would suffice the midfielder remains the question. But it might see Fulham inch closer to bringing him to England. Meanwhile, Fulham are also closing in on a loan deal for Arsenal defender Cedric Soares.
The Cottagers have given themselves a good chance to finish in European places after a stellar start to life since returning to the Premier League. Fulham are keen to bolster their midfield and bring Lukic to cover for or complement Joao Palinha. Torino might accept their offer. But the Serie A outfit might go back and forth a bit to get a better deal with the Cottagers.
Lukic would significantly improve the squad and the midfield department ahead of a busy period for Fulham. Marco Silva will be a satisfied manager if he can conclude this move and that of a new right-back before the window shuts.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/01/27/fulham-closing-in-on-signing-sasa-lukic/
Pre-Sunderland Press Conference
In the pre-match press briefing, a number of journalists asked Marco Silva if Fulham's position in the Premier League table means he will be targeting a strong FA Cup campaign.
"It's definitely our ambition to do well in the FA Cup," he confirmed. "A historic competition, a really important competition for all the clubs, but mainly we are looking for ourselves.
"It's a competition that myself as a manager, and our players, we are going to do our best to go through in the competition and keep all the ambition to do our best.
"Of course it's a special one, and I've mentioned that to our players. It was the first time when we played against Hull City, and this will be the same.
"We are preparing the game like we prepared the previous ones for the Premier League. For us, it's really important."
Sunderland arrive at Craven Cottage having lost only one of their previous seven matches, as they chase a Play-Off spot in the Championship.
"It's always a really tough game in this situation," Silva said. "It doesn't matter if you are facing Premier League sides, Championship sides, League One sides, whatever it is, it's always really special – their ambition, their desire. I think everyone will understand when the game starts.
"A big number of fans follow their team as well. All of us know how Sunderland is as a football club, and when they are in a good moment how they can be really well supported by their fans.
"Tomorrow we are going to feel that we are playing an FA Cup match against a club with a great fanbase, and a squad that wants to come here and do their best to go through in the competition.
"It's up to us to play at our very best because our desire and our ambition is really to play the next round."
Our Round Three victory saw Layvin Kurzawa and Dan James come into the starting XI, and they took full advantage by scoring the goals that secured our progression.
And our meeting with the Black Cats could present another opportunity for some members of the squad to stake a claim.
"Some players are deserving their chance, definitely," Silva explained. "For me, it makes sense. Of course, like I said before, it is a really important competition for us.
"We rotated the players against Hull away from home, and some players performed well, some players got that chance, and probably again it's a moment for us to see some performances, see some pop up.
"Some are deserving more minutes as well, and it will be a moment for some of them to start the game."
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/january/27/pre-sunderland-press-conference/
Midfielder appears to confirm Fulham made offer after reports of Silva's side bidding €20m for him
Earlier this week, we covered reports from the Brazilian media which said Fulham placed a bid for Fluminense midfielder André.
It was claimed by a couple of outlets that the Whites tried to sign the player on a €20m deal, and the bid was turned down by the Tricolor, who are not interested in selling him.
Fluminense played on Thursday evening, and after the match, André was asked about Fulham's attempt to sign him. In fact, the question was if the bid from England was real. The player first had a discreet smile, and tried to dodge the question.
"Obviously I'm focused and very happy, I just renewed my contract until 2026. That's what matters. It's normal to get a proposal," said André (via Globo Esporte).
"Even because our team ended the season well. Not just for me, but it must have arrived for Cano, Arias and everyone who ended up on a high. I'm focused here on Fluminense and that it's an excellent season."
Then the player was once again quizzed if the bid existed, and he appeared to confirm it by nodding his head.
Fluminense seem to be ambitious regarding André's future, since €20m is a pretty good amount for a midfielder, considering that Vasco da Gama, Palmeiras and Flamengo made less when selling Andrey Santos, Danilo and João Gomes to Chelsea, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers this month.
It's unclear if a bigger bid from Fulham would convince the Tricolor to sell the player, since local reports don't say how much the Brazilian side demand for a deal.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/midfielder-appears-confirm-fulham-made-offer-reports-silvas-side-bidding-e20m/
Aleksandar Mitrovic injury update as Fulham boss Marco Silva gives verdict on Sunderland ahead of FA Cup tie
Fulham boss Marco Silva says top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic is available for selection ahead of The Cottagers' FA Cup tie against Sunderland.
The Serbian striker, who has scored 11 Premier League goals this season, left the field with an ankle issue during Monday's 1-0 defeat against Tottenham at Craven Cottage.
Yet while admitting he will make some changes like against Hull in the previous round, Silva says the FA Cup remains important for his side.
"Some players deserve their chance, definitely," said the Fulham boss when asked about rotation. "We rotated against Hull away from home and performed well. It's a moment for us to see more minutes from some players.
"It's our ambition to do well in the FA Cup, a historic competition that's really important for all clubs. Myself as a manager and our players will do our best to go through."
Sunderland are set to be backed by another strong away following in West London and should be full of confidence following last week's 2-0 win over Middlesbrough - a result which moved Tony Mowbray's side to within a point of the Championship play-offs places.
When asked about the Black Cats, Silva replied: "They're really well-supported and tomorrow we'll feel that we're playing an FA Cup match against a club with a great fan base and a squad of players who want to do well in the competition."
Fulham are seventh in the Premier League table with 31 points, despite back-to-back league defeats against Newcastle and Tottenham.
https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/aleksandar-mitrovic-injury-update-as-fulham-boss-marco-silva-gives-verdict-on-sunderland-ahead-of-fa-cup-tie-4004574
Sunderland's Patrick Roberts looks ahead to his return to Fulham in the FA Cup this weekend
Patrick Roberts started his career at Fulham, and is set to line up against them in the fourth round of the cup tomorrow
Patrick Roberts is looking forward to returning to Fulham with Sunderland in the FA Cup - almost eight years after he lined up for the Cottagers against the Black Cats in the same competition. Sunderland head to Craven Cottage tomorrow to take on Marco Silva's Premier League side in the fourth round of the cup, having overcome League One Shrewsbury Town earlier this month to reach this stage.
But back in February 2015, Sunderland were the top flight side taking on Championship Fulham in South West London in the fourth round. Sunderland won 3-1 that day, and Roberts came on as a late substitute for Fulham - the club where he began his career - just a couple of days shy of his 18th birthday.
Roberts joined Manchester City at the end of that season and his career has since included loan stays at Celtic, Girona, Norwich City, Middlesbrough, Derby County, and Troyes, before he arrived at Sunderland 12 months ago. He has been back to Craven Cottage only once since leaving in the summer of 2015, losing 1-0 there in the Championship with Boro in January 2020, and this weekend's game will be a welcome return to the club that gave him his big break.
"It's been a long time since I've been back - I've been back maybe once in seven or eight years [since leaving]," said Roberts. "It's where I grew up playing, and they were the first club to give me an opportunity to start my career.
"I know what the place is like, I know what the fans are like, and it will be a good game of football between a team that is doing well in the Premier League and a team like us that is gradually doing better and better with every game. It should be a good tie and I'm looking forward to it.
"I don't really remember a lot of it because it was so long ago and time passes by so quickly. When you do get the opportunity to go back, it rekindles those memories in your head.
"I started my career there and I'm forever grateful to them for that. I started my journey there but I'm at an even bigger club now and I'm enjoying it and I want to carry on in that same kind of way."
The cup game gives Sunderland some respite from their Championship campaign, with Roberts adding: "I think it will be a good test. We need it, because you go from Championship games where everything gets a bit nervy because winning and losing is so important, but in the FA Cup you can take a step back.
"It's a week off the fixtures in the league and you can go and enjoy it at a different place, a different venue, and some of the lads have maybe not played at a Premier League ground so it will be good for that. We'll take it in our stride and enjoy it and hopefully get the win."
Sunderland beat another of Roberts' old clubs Boro last weekend, with the midfielder providing an assist for Amad for the second goal at the Stadium of Light and also delivering the pass which set Ross Stewart away in the incident that led to the striker earning a penalty and the visitors being reduced to ten men. He said: "It was a good game - a tough game for us against a good team with good momentum under a new manager.
"But at our place we like to get our fans out of their seats and play good football against a team that is similar to us in style of play, and we came out on top."
https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderlands-patrick-roberts-looks-ahead-26092304
Silva seeks two new signings
Fulham head coach Marco Silva wants to make two new signings before the end of the January transfer window.
The Whites are believed to be close to bringing in Arsenal full back Cedric Soares on loan and have agreed personal terms with Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic ahead of a proposed £7m move.
Silva, who wouldn't be drawn on the identities of the potential new arrivals, told his press conference at Motspur Park this afternoon:
"[I am hoping we will sign] two players, probably two players. If you ask me if I'm thinking we are close to finishing something, we should be because a few more days and the market is going to close.
"We should be closer, and we hope that we can do something before the end of the market. Probably some players they can go and probably two players they should come and they should sign deals before the end of the market, but we will see and we can hope."
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/silva-seeks-two-new-signings/
'FA Cup is really important,' says Silva
Marco Silva insists Fulham's better than expected performances in the Premier League doesn't mean that they will be taking the FA Cup lightly.
The Fulham head coach insists the world's oldest club cup competition is very important and wants his side to go as far as possible in this season's edition. Silva told his pre-match press conference this afternoon:
"It's definitely our ambition to do well in the FA Cup. A historic competition, a really important competition for all the clubs, but mainly we are looking for ourselves. It's a competition that myself as a manager, and our players, we are going to do our best to go through in the competition and keep all the ambition to do our best.
Of course it's a special one, and I've mentioned that to our players. It was the first time when we played against Hull City, and this will be the same. We are preparing the game like we prepared the previous ones for the Premier League. For us, it's really important."
Silva knows that Fulham can't take progress for granted with the Whites facing in-form Sunderland, who will be backed by a massive travelling support at Craven Cottage, tomorrow afternoon.
"It's always a really tough game in this situation. It doesn't matter if you are facing Premier League sides, Championship sides, League One sides, whatever it is, it's always really special – their ambition, their desire. I think everyone will understand when the game starts.
A big number of fans follow their team as well. All of us know how Sunderland is as a football club, and when they are in a good moment how they can be really well supported by their fans. Tomorrow we are going to feel that we are playing an FA Cup match against a club with a great fanbase, and a squad that wants to come here and do their best to go through in the competition. It's up to us to play at our very best because our desire and our ambition is really to play the next round."
The Fulham boss hinted that he may include some fringe players in the starting line-up against the Black Cats.
"Some players are deserving their chance, definitely. For me, it makes sense. Of course, like I said before, it is a really important competition for us. We rotated the players against Hull away from home, and some players performed well, some players got that chance, and probably again it's a moment for us to see some performances, see some pop up. Some are deserving more minutes as well, and it will be a moment for some of them to start the game."
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/fa-cup-is-really-important-says-silva/
Fulham transfer news: Marco Silva pushing for two signings before January window deadline
Sasa Lukic and Cedric Soares on the radar ahead of Tuesday's transfer deadline
Fulham manager Marco Silva is aiming to add two players to his squad before the January transfer window closes on Tuesday.
The Cottagers have exceeded all expectations in the Premier League this season and currently sit in seventh place, two points above Liverpool and Chelsea.
However, Fulham boss Silva still wants to welcome new additions at Craven Cottage before Tuesday, although he would not reveal who he was targeting.
"(I am hoping we will sign) two players, probably two players," Silva said.
"If you ask me if I'm thinking we are close to finishing something, we should be because a few more days and the market is going to close.
"We should be closer, and we hope that we can do something before the end of the market.
"Probably some players they can go and probably two players they should come and they should sign deals before the end of the market, but we will see and we can hope."
Fulham host Sunderland in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday looking to return to winning ways after two successive 1-0 defeats in the Premier League against Newcastle and Tottenham.
Silva insisted his team will take the match against the Sky Bet Championship side seriously having already beaten Hull in the third round.
"It's our ambition to do well definitely in the FA Cup," Silva said.
"(It's) a really important competition for all clubs but, when we are looking for ourselves, it is a competition that we are going to do our best to go through in.
"Of course it is a special one and it's something that I have mentioned for our players, the first time we played against Hull and tomorrow will be the same way.
"We will prepare this one like we prepared the one in the Premier League and it's the same way that we have prepared ourselves and for us it's really important."
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-transfer-news-lukic-cedric-2023-b1056197.html
Fulham vs Sunderland injury news as seven players ruled out and two doubtful
A look at all the latest injury news regarding both Fulham and Sunderland
Fulham return to FA Cup action this weekend at home to Sunderland. The Cottagers beat Hull City 2-0 away at the MKM Stadium in the third round.
Tony Mowbray's side make the trip down to London in decent form so will be tough opponents for the Whites. Here is a look at the latest injury news regarding both clubs...
Fulham are without winger Neeskens Kebano as he is out with a long-term Achilles injury. He made 12 league appearances earlier this season.
They have been sweating over the fitness of key striker Aleksandar Mitrovic after he took a blow to his ankle last time out against Tottenham Hotspur. However, Silva has revealed he is fit, as per BBC Sport.
The FA Cup gives Silva the chance to shake-up his starting XI. Tom Cairney, Carlos Vinicius, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marek Rodak and Layvin Kurzawa all got starts in the last round.
As for Sunderland, they have a host of players unavailable. Midfielder Corry Evans has suffered an ACL injury which will see him out of action until the end of the campaign. Lydon Gooch has a hip issue and sat out against Middlesbrough last time out. Luke O'Nien is still suspended, whilst Dennis Cirkin and Alex Pritchard are also missing.
The Black Cats have won the race to sign Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt on loan but he is cup tied. Fellow recent recruit Pierre Ekwah can play after joining from West Ham earlier this week and left-backs Niall Huggins and Aji Alese will both be assessed.
OUT: Kebano (Fulham), Evans (Sunderland), Gooch (Sunderland), Gelhardt (Sunderland), O'Nien (Sunderland), Pritchard (Sunderland), Cirkin (Sunderland)
DOUBTS: Huggins (Sunderland), Alese (Sunderland)
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-vs-sunderland-injury-news-as-seven-players-ruled-out-and-x-doubtful-4004713
Fulham boss Silva hopeful of two new signings
Fulham boss Marco Silva says he hopes the club will bring in two new signings before the transfer window closes on Tuesday night.
Silva's side visit Chelsea next Friday and he hopes to have a new right-back and a central midfielder in his squad for the trip to Stamford Bridge.
Fulham are close to finalising a loan deal with Arsenal for defender Cedric Soares to provide competition for Kenny Tete and Silva wants to bolster his midfield options behind Joao Palhinha and Harrison Reed.
The club are keen to offload Josh Onomah and Nathan Chalobah before Tuesday's 11pm (GMT) cut-off and Silva is keen for his squad to keep evolving to maintain their excellent return to the Premier League.
"We are close to finishing something and we hope we can do something before the end of the market," Silva said.
"Some players can go, and two players we hope can come in."
The Whites take on Sunderland in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday at Craven Cottage with Silva likely to make changes to his side – with Harry Wilson, Manor Solomon, Tom Cairney and Marek Rodak all set to start.
Striker Carlos Vinicius is in line to lead the attack with Aleksandar Mitrovic to drop to the bench or be rested for the weekend after suffering another knock to his troublesome ankle in the defeat by Spurs on Monday.
"Some players from our last game will be involved," Silva said.
"Some players are deserving of their chance and while it's an important competition, we gave players the chance to play against Hull in the last round and they did well.
"We are going to do our best to win the competition. It is special and something that I mentioned to our players when we played Hull.
"We have to be at our best."
https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-boss-silva-hopeful-of-two-new-signings
Torino boss makes Sasa Lukic exit claim as Fulham make £7m midfielder bid
Sasa Lukic is a 'very strong player' but Torino will adapt if the Serbia international leaves to join Fulham in the Premier League, Serie A coach Ivan Juric tells Tuttomercatoweb.
Last summer, Il Granata lost Italy's 2022 Defender of the Year to local rivals Juventus for an eye-watering sum of £42.5 million. Not that you'd know it. Torino are arguably better without Bremer than they were with the Brazil international, a team who finished tenth last season currently flying high in eighth.
And this gives Juric confidence that, if Lukic does depart before next week's transfer deadline, Torino can keep plugging along in the top half of the table.
"Lukic is a very strong player. I consider him really strong because he combines the two phases (defensive and attacking). Tough, intelligent," says Juric, linked with the Southampton job before Nathan Jones took over from Ralph Hasenhuttl at St Mary's.
"I'm sorry that things don't go the way I would like. There are these difficulties with (contract) renewals. Let's see how things evolve, based on what the boy wants. We don't just need to replace (him), but add to those who I think are good."
Fulham are offering £7m for Torino and Serie A ace Sasa Lukic
Lukic, formerly the Torino captain, is due to become a free-agent in just 18 months' time. And the 26-year-old is reportedly reluctant to put pen to paper on a new deal.
"I would always like him here, but there are different dynamics. A younger boy could arrive (to replace him). Sometimes it's even right (to sell), as happened with Bremer," Juric adds.
"We'll manage, I think."
According to Fabrizio Romano, Fulham have submitted an opening bid of £7 million. Lukic impressed for Serbia at the Qatar World Cup. He has spent the last seven years in Serie A, and is open to a new challenge in England.
Fulham, targeting a new right-back as well as a midfielder, are also keen on Fluminense's Brazilian youngster Andre Trindade. It is believed, however, that Financial Fair Play concerns make a January arrival unlikely with Andre valued in excess of £17 million.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/01/27/torino-boss-makes-sasa-lukic-exit-claim-as-fulham-make-7m-midfielder-bid/
Cedric Soares Arsenal transfer development as Fulham wage details explained
Arsenal transfer latest on Cedric Soares during the January window
Fulham are hopeful of completing a loan deal for Cedric Soares from Arsenal in the coming days, LondonWorld understands. The Cottagers have identified Cedric as an ideal acquisition due to his experience and versatility.
It's understood that Fulham will cover the entirety of Cedric's wages during his time at Craven Cottage, but the deal doesn't include an obligation to purchase the right back. However, Fulham need to make Shane Duffy's loan from Brighton a permanent deal before they complete the move for Cedric as their second loan.
Marco Silva confirmed on Friday that he is still hoping to sign two players before Tuesday's transfer deadline.
"(I am hoping we will sign) two players, probably two players," Silva said. "If you ask me if I'm thinking we are close to finishing something, we should be because a few more days and the market is going to close.
"We should be closer, and we hope that we can do something before the end of the market. Probably some players they can go and probably two players they should come and they should sign deals before the end of the market, but we will see and we can hope."
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/arsenal/cedric-soares-arsenal-transfer-development-and-fulham-wage-details-4004904
West Brom: Nathaniel Chalobah move is off
West Brom won't be completing the signing of Fulham midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah in the January transfer window, according to journalist Lewis Cox.
The Lowdown: Chalobah linked with Baggies move
The 28-year-old barely played a part in the Cottagers' Premier League campaign since their return to the top flight, starting just one match in the competition this season.
Chalobah has been strongly linked with a move to West Brom recently, with Carlos Corberan seemingly seeing him as someone who could aid their Championship promotion push.
With the January window closing next Tuesday, though, an emphatic update has emerged regarding the player's future.
The Latest: Transfer won't be happening
Taking to Twitter, The Express & Star's Cox claimed contrary to the rumours that Chalobah would be going nowhere this month:
"Nathaniel Chalobah has been of interest to #wba this month but I'm told this morning he is unavailable and reports he is set for The Hawthorns are wide of (the) mark."
The Verdict: Would've great a strong signing
This is a blow for West Brom, considering Chalobah could have been someone who added experience and class to the midfield, averaging 1.6 tackles and 1.4 interceptions per game in his last full season with Watford, also scoring three goals.
The now Fulham outcast also has a senior England cap to his name, not to mention winning a whopping 40 caps for the Under-21s and being called 'incredible' by journalist Paul Taylor during his younger days.
Instead, it could be wise for the Baggies to turn to an alternative in the coming days, with that extra injection of quality of midfield something that could make or break their hopes of returning to the Premier League.
https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/west-brom-news/west-brom-championship-nathaniel-chalobah-transfer-news-updates/
Fulham interested in Andre
Fulham have reportedly expressed an interest in signing 21-year-old Fluminense enforcer Andre in the final days of the January transfer window, but a summer move looks more likely.
Fulham are in the market to bolster their midfield ranks. And an Evening Standard report has suggested that the Cottagers are hot on the heels of Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic. But they are also intrigued by the prospect of acquiring highly-rated Brazilian destroyer André from Fluminense.
The Cottagers are currently enjoying a remarkable first year back in the Premier League, as they have accumulated 31 points from 21 games to sit in seventh position in the standings.
As things stand, they will be eligible to play European football next summer, which is a crazy idea from Fulham fans' perspective, who have watched their team bounce back and forth between the top tier and the Championship, becoming a notorious banter "yo-yo" club in years gone by.
Harrison Reed and Joao Palhinha have formed an effective relationship in the double pivot behind attacking midfielder Andreas Pereira, with the latter two only moving to West London in the summer. However, experienced top-flight alternatives to the trio are in short supply, with Nathaniel Chalobah and Tom Cairney each making only one start.
Having made 11 first-team additions in the previous transfer window, Marco Silva has yet to sign a player since the turn of the year. As such, they appear to be closing in on their first winter signing in the form of Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic, having tabled an offer worth €8 million plus €2 million in bonuses for Aleksandar Mitrovic's compatriot.
Torino have now sealed the deal for Verona midfielder Ivan Ilic. And this will allow Lukic to fly to west London in the coming hours. However, it appears Silva is keen on welcoming even further midfield reinforcements, with Fluminense's Andre on their radar.
Primarily a holding midfielder, the 21-year-old has played plenty of senior football for his age and may be ready for the new chapter in Europe, having already racked up over 100 senior appearances for the Rio de Janeiro outfit.
He is at ease in a deep-lying central midfield role as a tireless midfield workhorse. But Andre is more than your typical ball-winner. The youngster likes to demand the ball and dictate the play with those slick, rangy passes or mazy runs.
Fulham already have a strong contingent of Brazilian stars like Andreas Pereira and Willian, so the move may well appeal to Andre. His commanding displays in the middle of the park have garnered interest from the likes of Liverpool, Barcelona, and Ajax over the last 12 months. So this could be a bit of a coup for Fulham.
That said, it is highly unlikely the Cottagers will be able to secure a late-winter swoop for Andre. Fluminense have no intention of selling their prized asset this month, as reaffirmed recently by president Mario Bittencourt. This is the kind of deal you can expect Fulham to follow up again at the end of the campaign. And they are currently laying the early foundations.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/01/27/fulham-interested-in-andre/
Pajaziti earns point for Fulham under 21s
An equaliser from Adrion Pajaziti earned Fulham's under 21s a hard-fought point against Everton in Southport this evening.
The hosts made the perfect start – taking the lead in third minute when winger Katia Kouyate hammered a half-volley in off the far post. But Fulham hit back just before the twenty minute mark as Pajaziti, playing as a number ten on Merseyside, stroked in a leveller after good work from the lively Martial Godo. Both sides had good chances to take all three points in the second half but had to settle for a point apiece.
Steve Wigley made four changes to the team that was beaten by Chelsea at Motspur Park last weekend. Connor McAvoy didn't travel north which meant a defensive reshuffle was necessary. Harvey Araujo and Charlie Robinson resumed their centre back partnership that kept a clean sheet for the under 18s in the FA Youth Cup success at Sunderland on Wednesday, whilst Devan Tanton came in at right back with Luciano D'Auria-Henry switching to the other side of the back four. Jay Williams partnered Matt Dibley-Dias in the middle of the park with Pajaziti playing further forward as Godo came in for Olly Sanderson on the left and Callum McFarlane led the line ahead of Terry Ablade.
After their dream start, Everton spurned a good chance to double their lead on ten minutes. Elijah Campbell leapt majestically to meet a corner but headed disappointingly wide. Fulham's first chance came courtesy of some relentlessly pressing from Dibley-Dias, who won the ball in the home penalty area, but McFarlane saw his snapshot blocked. Pajaziti's equaliser settled the Whites down and Godo almost put the away side ahead but blasted into the side netting after a sharp counter-attack.
Alex Borto made a smart save with five minutes of the first half remaining, parrying away a strike from Callum Bates before goalscorer Kouyate went close with another venomous volley. The second half started scrappily before Borto made a pair of outstanding saves to preserve parity with eighteen minutes left. The American goalkeeper did brilliantly to block Reece Welch's shot with his legs and displayed great agility to tip over a header from Kouyate at the ensuing corner.
Fulham threatened towards the end with Zanluk Leban making an excellent one-handed save to thwart Sonny Hilton's clever chip and Godo shot across the face of goal after Pajaziti's deflected drive fell kindly for the winger. The point sees Fulham stay in fifth in the PL2 standings. Wigley's side are next in action in the Premier League International Cup against Wolfsburg on Wednesday night at Motspur Park.
EVERTON UNDER 21s (5-4-1): Leban; John, Samuels-Smith, Welch, Hunt, Campbell; Bates (Iversen 45), Apter, Barker (Higgins 61), Kouyate; Okoronkwo. Subs (not used): Barrett, Heath, Mallon.
BOOKED: John.
GOAL: Kouyate (3).
FULHAM UNDER 21s (4-2-3-1): Borto; Tanton, D'Auria-Henry, C. Robinson, Araujo; Dibley-Dias (Sanderson 45+2), Williams; Hilton, Godo, Pajaziti; McFarlane (Ablade 78). Subs (not used): Allen, Okkas.
GOAL: Pajaziti (19).
REFEREE: Aaron Jackson.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/pajaziti-earns-point-for-fulham-under-21s/
Reece James recovered from injury, 'in contention' to start against Fulham — report
Like a new signing?
Chelsea have reportedly agreed the transfer of 19-year-old right back Malo Gusto yesterday, but he will finish out the rest of the season at Olympique Lyonnais and won't be actually joining us until the summer. Thankfully, it sounds like Reece James should be ready to return when our mini-break is over, and, as per the Telegraph, is "in contention" to start next Friday against Fulham.
Best January signing yet!
Reece has been dealing with this knee injury since before the World Cup, and his recovery hasn't exactly been smooth or straightforward, involving a random trip to Dubai and a failed comeback attempt a month ago that lasted 60 minutes. Hopefully things will go better this time around! James had been back in training, in at least limited capacity, for a couple weeks now, so presumably we will have indeed ensured he's fully ready to return.
If Reece can find his form quickly and can stay uninjured, we should be set for the rest of the season with the likes of César Azpilicueta and Trevoh Chalobah backing him up. Then Gusto can come in and, in theory at least, provide proper competition and rotation.
https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/2023/1/28/23575351/reece-james-recovered-from-injury-in-contention-to-start-against-fulham-report
Sunderland: Why Tony Mowbray 'threw Fulham hammering in the bin'
TONY Mowbray knows only too well what Marco Silva's Fulham are capable of on their day - for his Blackburn team were hit for seven by the Cottagers last season.
But rather than dwell on that hammering, Mowbray "threw it in the bin" immediately, just as he did Sunderland's recent home defeat to Swansea City when Luke O'Nien was sent off.
That's not to say the Sunderland boss has his head in the sand at all when it comes to assessing what today's FA Cup opponents are capable of, but he knows that Blackburn thumping was just one of those days when everything went right for Fulham and everything went wrong for Rovers.
And, in truth, being on the receiving end of a Fulham hammering last season was nothing to be ashamed about. Silva's side were by far the Championship's team and are showing their class in the Premier League, sitting pretty in seventh.
"It was a game that I threw in the bin straight away – which is what I did after the Swansea defeat recently," said Mowbray, reflecting on that 7-0 loss.
"We played with 10 men for 75 minutes against what was undoubtedly the best team in the league, a team that was ripping the Championship to shreds.
"They played such good positional football. It seemed every time Harry Wilson got the ball, he stepped inside on to his left foot and rifled it into the top corner. And Mitrovic, every time it hit his backside or his knee, it went in the bottom corner. It was one of those days when every time they attacked, they scored.
"So I don't owe Marco anything. I think he is a very bright manager, he has a good team, talented players. This is a good test for us and Fulham will play a brand of football you do not often see in the Championship.
"We go there on the back of a good Boro performance – we got performance of the week from the LMA for that game – let's see how good we are. It's one thing beating Championship teams, let's see how good we are against Premier League opposition where there is not really an expectation that we will go there and dominate.
"We have to go there and compete as best we can. Let's see if we can give them problems in our best moments and also show the resilience you always need against a top team."
For all Fulham are enjoying a superb season and have threats all over the pitch, Mowbray knows that Sunderland have matchwinners of their own.
He says: "We need to be brave in possession and that is what we are trying to instil into them, to enjoy the football.
"We don't have to play one touch every time, have a few touches, enjoy possession, pass to your teammates. Look we have some wonderful footballers, Amad, Roberts, who have both done extraordinary well down that side of the pitch, Clarke can slice through a defence like butter on his day, Ross Stewart is obviously talented.
"But we have to get the ball to these players so they can test their talent against a very good team."
https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/23282142.sunderland-tony-mowbray-threw-fulham-hammering-bin/
President set to collect 'good figure' from player's sale to Fulham – Manager unhappy with deal
Fulham have taken firm steps to sign Torino's Saša Lukić in the winter market.
On Friday, TuttoMercatoWeb explained the Premier League side have offered a deal to the Turin club and also a contract to the midfielder, worth €2m net per season until 2026.
Lukić is expected to change clubs soon as Torino Granata state the player's 'new home will be Fulham'.
Torino president Urbano Cairo will collect €10m plus bonuses from the 26-year-old's sale to Marco Silva's side. It's said this is a 'good figure', considering the Serbia international's deal expires in 2024 and he's refused to sign an extension.
The Serie A side will soon see changes in their midfield. Lukić will say 'goodbye' as he is set to join Fulham and Torino will sign Hellas Verona's Ivan Ilić.
Meanwhile, Torino manager Ivan Jurić is not pleased with Lukić's impending sale to the English club.
"For me Lukić is a very strong player, I consider him really strong because he combines the two phases. Tough, intelligent, then there are the dynamics... I'm sorry that things aren't done the way I would like, there are these difficulties with renewals," Jurić said, as quoted by TMW.
"Let's see how things evolve, also based on what the boy wants. We don't just need to replace, but add on those that I think are strong. If we add strong people then yes, we can also talk about other goals, but right now we are not this thing here."
http://sportwitness.co.uk/president-set-collect-good-figure-players-sale-fulham-manager-unhappy-deal/
Up next: Sunderland (h)
Back to back frustrating league losses means it is probably a good time for Fulham to embrace the FA Cup again this weekend. The world's oldest Cup competition still holds a special appeal for plenty of supporters and Marco Silva has been fairly emphatic this week that he considers it 'very important'. That message has been emphasised by the players and the Fulham faithful seems to have responded by buying a considerable number of tickets for an intriguing fourth round tie against Sunderland, who are going very well on their return to the Championship under Tony Mowbray and will pose a real threat to Fulham's hopes of progress this afternoon.
Mowbray might well ring the changes this afternoon, as he did in the previous round against Shrewsbury Town, but that might have more to do with the fact that the Black Cats bid for a second succession promotion is gathering steam. Sunderland, backed by a support that will take up most of the Putney End, will head to Craven Cottage in good spirits having comfortably seen off Middlesbrough in a local derby last weekend and, although they are facing a chronic injury crisis, a canny manager like Mowbray has already shown he knows his way around one of the most competitive divisions in the world. In a one off game where anything can happen – and almost half the top flight has been dispatched from the FA Cup already – there were far easier assignments that Fulham could have been handed.
Sunderland have lost just one of their last six and produced a stunning turnaround at Shrewsbury in the third round, having trailed 1-0 until stoppage time when goals from Ross Stewart and Luke O'Nien turned that tie right around. The Black Cats suffered a big blow in the week with confirmation that captain Corry Evans will miss the rest of the season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the win over Middlesbrough. Elliot Embleton is also unlikely to feature again before the summer and Lynden Gooch's hip injury is likely to rule the American out of action this afternoon. O'Nien is suspended, but Alex Pritchard and Dennis Cirkin should be available, whilst Pierre Ekwah and Isaac Lihadji – dependent on international clearance – will be pushing for debuts. Joe Gelhardt, an eye-catching loan signing from Leeds, is cup-tied. There should be a return for Patrick Roberts, whose prodigious talent we never saw enough of in the Fulham first team.
Marco Silva's own selection will be interesting. Fulham have a good chance of completing the SW6 double over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Friday, after memorably beating the Blues courtesy of that Carlos Vinicius header earlier this month. The Fulham head coach hinted at a degree of squad rotation, although the precise nature of his alterations remained under wraps during yesterday's press conference. He was adamant that the Whites would need to take Sunderland seriously or they could find themselves on the end of a humbling upset. Layvin Kurzawa certainly fancies a Cup run – and has his family to impress today – after opening his Fulham account in a stodgy third round win at Hull City. The French left back should get another chance to build up his match sharpness this afternoon.
Tosin Adarabioyo, the subject of fairly frenzied transfer speculation at the start of last week, could well return to the back four, and we might see Bobby Decordova-Reid slip into the right back role once again. There seems an obvious chance to give Tom Cairney a rare start in central midfield, perhaps alongside Harrison Reed, whose energy will be vital against opposition will be up for a real battle. Dan James scored at Hull and deserves another shot in the Cup, whilst this tie represents an ideal opportunity to hand Manor Solomon his first start in Fulham colours after a number of encouraging cameos. The romantic in me wants Luke Harris to get a go in the number ten role, a position from where he can arrive late in the box as he has so devastatingly for Steve Wigley's academy sides over the past season, and Vinicius should lead the line – even if Aleksandar Mitrovic has shaken off any concerns about the ankle injury sustained late on against Tottenham on Monday night.
MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Rodak; Decordova-Reid, Kurzawa, Diop, Adarabiyo; Reed, Cairney; James, Solomon, Harris; Vinicius. Subs: Wickens, Duffy, Tete, Palhinha, Chalobah, Willian, Wilson, O'Neill, Mitrovic.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/up-next-sunderland-h/
Fan Focus: Fulham fan Steve hopes that Patrick Roberts can fulfill his potential at Sunderland!
Ahead of Sunderland's fourth round FA Cup tie, Matty spoke to Fulham fan and Freelance Journalist, Steve Lillis, to discuss their fantastic form this season!
Matthew Crichton: Fulham sit 7th in the Premier League after a fantastic start to the season, what has been so different this time around from your last spell in the top tier?
Steve Lillis: For once Fulham have done it right in the transfer market. Bernd Leno has been fantastic in goal, Andreas Pereira is now proving himself in English football after a long stop-start Manchester United career, Willian is showing his Chelsea form, but Palhinha has been one of the best signings in the Premier League.
The biggest difference is Silva backing Alexander Mitrovic. Scott Parker never fancied him at all the last time we were in top flight, and even preferred Josh Maja when he came in.
MC: After a difficult spell in charge at Everton, Marco Silva has won over half his games in charge of Fulham - what are the factors behind his success?
SL: He has had a better relationship with the owners than previous managers, had a lot more say in the transfer market and his signings have been top drawer.
He was seen as damaged goods after Everton so came here with a lot to prove after 18 months out. If he failed at Craven Cottage he was finished as top flight manager.
MC: With survival almost certain, do you think the club should be really going for the FA Cup given your great form and the fact the club has never won it?
SL: Absolutely, we should. Three wins should be enough for Premier League survival, but despite our form Europa League qualification is unlikely so a FA Cup run is a must although in recent seasons we have failed miserably in the competition.
I think it's the fifth round once in 12 years. The last three seasons have been fourth round exits losing 4-0, 3-0 and 4-1, although two of those losses were at Manchester City and the other against bogey club Burnley.
MC: While 10 goals in 13 games for Ross Stewart is impressive, it's nothing compared to Aleksandar Mitrović's 43 in 44 games last season - do you think he will be rested for this match?
SL: He injured the same ankle that has been giving him problems for months against Tottenham on Monday and it's highly unlikely he will be risked with a big derby against Chelsea six days later even if fit.
He missed the win at Craven Cottage recently and won't want to be in the stands at Stamford Bridge.
MC: Even Fulham's second string eleven is packed with vast talent should Silva decide to make changes - which Fulham players should Sunderland be most wary of?
SL: If Palhinha plays, Sunderland players will be shocked how good his tackling and all-round play is. Tom Cairney has been outstanding when he has come off the bench and ran the show at Sunderland in round three.
Most of all, watch for Manor Solomon who will play and is returning to fitness. He is a top winger and big things were expected when he signed from Shakhtar Donetsk, but we're only starting to see him now following a training injury in August.
MC: Aged just 18, Patrick Roberts left Fulham to join Manchester City for around £11m, looking back do you think it would have been better for his development to stay?
SL: He should have stayed for another season and developed. Fulham fans were upset when he left. Saying that if Manchester City come in with a five-year contract that will secure your financial future while you're a teenager it's hard to say no.
MC: Following loans at six different clubs, Roberts appears to have settled at Sunderland and is playing brilliantly of late - do you think Sunderland fans can expect more to come?
SL: I hope there is more to come and he becomes a Mackem great and plays in the Premier League for Sunderland. If he does, Patrick will have fulfilled his potential and not been a waste of talent.
MC: Fulham have an excellent record at Craven Cottage this season, what style of play can Tony Mowbray's team expect to encounter?
SL: Fulham play out from the back, move the ball quick, press and get crosses into the box as often as possible.
Sunderland's central defenders need to be on it. Fulham have been superb from corners and until a couple of weeks were the Premier League's top scorers from them.
MC: Which eleven players do you think Silva will select?
SL: People expected 11 changes from the win at Leicester when we played Hull in the third round, but Fulham started with five regulars.
Players who are usually on the bench like goalkeeper Marek Rodak, Tom Cairney, Tosin Adarabioyo, Carlos Vinicius will all start. Marco Silva knows there is hope that this could be the year we have a FA Cup run and won't rest an entire team.
MC: Sunderland won 3-1 when the two sides last met in the FA Cup back in 2015 - what is your prediction for the final score?
SL: It will be nervy for Fulham who will have to be patient. I expect Sunderland to put men behind the ball and frustrate the home side.
If you're a Fulham fan, we have to expect a win against a good Championship side and I'm going 1-0 in a tight match that will sound like a home game for Sunderland with 5-6,000 fans behind them at the Putney End.
I'm sure if the roles were reversed Sunderland fans wouldn't accept anything more than a win.
https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2023/1/28/23568902/fan-focus-fulham-fan-steve-hopes-that-patrick-roberts-can-fulfill-his-potential-at-sunderland
Chelsea handed huge defensive injury boost with James and Chilwell set to return for visit of Fulham
Chelsea defenders Reece James and Ben Chilwell are set to return to action very soon after respective prolonged injury layoffs.
Injury boost for Chelsea
James, Chilwell set to return
Chelsea face Fulham in Premier League
WHAT HAPPENED? James and Chilwell, who have been out of action since October and November respectively, have successfully recovered from their injuries and will be available for selection ahead of Chelsea's Premier League clash against Fulham on Friday, February 3, according to The Telegraph.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Both the full-backs missed out on being part of the England squad at the Qatar World Cup. While Chilwell suffered a hamstring tear in the Blues' Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb, James picked up a knee injury against AC Milan.
AND WHAT'S MORE: Speaking to the club's in-house media, Chilwell said: "I've been working now for 10-11 weeks to get back onto the grass and I've been back in training now for a few days, so I'm buzzing and really looking forward to getting back to the games and helping the team."
WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA? Graham Potter's side face Fulham and West Ham next in the Premier League before taking on Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League round of 16.
https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/chelsea-handed-defensive-injury-boost-james-chilwell-return-fulham/blt44f937c4bce920f0
Sunderland transfer latest and Fulham team news as Tony Mowbray faces multiple injury issues for FA Cup tie
Sunderland face Premier League side Fulham in the FA Cup – and we've got all the action covered from Craven Cottage.
The Black Cats should be full of confidence following last weekend's 2-0 win over Middlesbrough – but are still dealing with several injury setbacks.
Captain Corry Evans is likely to miss the rest of the season after suffering damage to his anterior cruciate ligament, a blow which may alter the club's transfer plans.
Sunderland have made three new signings in January, though, with forward Joe Gelhardt joining on loan from Leeds until the end of the season.
https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/sunderland-transfer-latest-and-fulham-team-news-as-tony-mowbray-faces-multiple-injury-issues-for-fa-cup-tie-4005060
Report: 23-year-old Chelsea player now in contention to start against Fulham, Potter's only picked six times
Reece James is reportedly in line to start for Chelsea at home to Fulham next week.
According to the Telegraph, the defender is in contention to feature from the off at Stamford Bridge for the first time since his latest injury layoff.
James' rotten fitness record has remained a concern for the player and the club this season.
The 23-year-old missed a large chunk of the previous campaign through various wounds, but looked to improve his luck heading into the current term.
His fortunes have not changed, however.
Is Reece James really ready this time for Chelsea?
Chelsea's Champions League tie away to AC Milan in October was the first of the England international's set-backs.
A knee problem forced him out of the side and, perhaps more poignantly, made him miss the World Cup.
He sat out nine domestic matches and the entirety of the tournament in Qatar whilst his rehabilitation ensued.
After traveling to Dubai and Abu Dhabi as part of his recovery, the medical staff at Cobham deemed James healthy enough to play the first game post-World Cup.
Sadly, this decision appeared to be premature.
Graham Potter had to remove the right-back just eight minutes into the second-half against Bournemouth due to an issue in the same knee that doused him previously.
But the academy graduate has continued to fight, and is now back in training ahead of the derby with Fulham in just under a weeks' time.
James could be joined by fellow treatment-table buddy Ben Chilwell, who is apparently hopeful to make the bench for the next Premier League fixture following his own absence.
https://www.thechelseachronicle.com/premier-league/report-23-year-old-chelsea-player-now-in-contention-to-start-against-fulham-potters-only-picked-six-times/
Everton U21's Held by Fulham
Everton's U21 side earned a well-deserved 1-1 draw against Fulham, with Katia Kouyate on the scoresheet for the young Toffees.
With Paul Tait assisting Leighton Baines in overseeing first-team training this week following Frank Lampard's dismissal, assistant coach Keith Southern took charge of the Premier League 2 clash at Southport's Haig Avenue on Friday evening.
Everton went into the game with back-to-back victories under their belt, with a win at Southampton in the Premier League Cup last week followed by a victory away at Brighton.
A goal inside 3 minutes for the Toffees emphasized the confidence within the squad at the minute, as Kouyate latched onto the end of a long Kyle John pass to open the scoring.
It was a dominant performance from the young Everton side, though missed opportunities to double their lead proved costly when the visitors drew level with their first chance of note.
With 18 minutes gone, Fulham's Martial Godo saw his effort blocked by Reece Welsh, only for the ball to fall kindly for Adrion Pajaziti who scored to restore parity.
Both sides had chances to steal the points in the second period, but for some quality goalkeeping at either end of the pitch to ensure the game ended in a draw.
"I think it's a fair result," Southern said after the game. "Two really good competitive sides playing in an end-to-end match and going toe-to-toe with each other.
"I thought we might have nicked it near the end with the big man at the back post, Reece.
It was a lovely finish but the goalkeeper made a great save. Zan's made some decent saves, too, so I think a draw was the fair result."
The result leaves Everton in 7th place in the Premier League 2 table, level on points with Fulham who are in 6th.
https://everton.vitalfootball.co.uk/everton-u21s-held-by-fulham/
Fulham 'close to completing £8.8m deal for Torino's Sasa Lukic'... with the Italian club willing to let the midfielder leave as they 'edge nearer to signing Ivan Ilic from Hellas Verona'
Fulham look set to sign Torino's Sasa Lukic on a three-and-a-half year deal
The Italian club have authorised his sale as they are close to signing Ivan Ilic
Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic is closing in on a move to Fulham, as the Serie A club edge nearer to signing Ivan Ilic from Hellas Verona.
The Premier League outfit have a history of dipping into the Italian market, and are now waiting for the green light from Turin to proceed to the final details of the deal.
Fulham have offered €10m (£8.8m), including bonuses, to bring the 26-year-old to Craven Cottage, according to Tuttosport.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/01/28/12/67069945-11686815-image-m-7_1674909635039.jpg)
Sasa Lukic is set to join Fulham from Italian club Torino until the summer of 2026
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/01/28/12/67069943-11686815-image-a-8_1674909673289.jpg)
Torino are closing in on signing central midfielder Ivan Ilic from Hellas Verona
Lukic will be on a €2m-a-year contract (£1.8m) that will run until 2026, and his current club are willing to let him go, despite previously considering him a potential future captain.
Torino are in favour of selling him to get the money needed to keep hold of Nikola Vlasic and Aleksey Miranchuk, who are both currently on loan from West Ham and Atalanta respectively.
Selling Lukic would guarantee the club a large transfer fee and immediately make room for the highly-talented Ilic without creating financial problems for the club.
Lukic looks set to bring his Torino career to an end after six years at the club.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/01/28/12/67069949-11686815-image-m-10_1674909739832.jpg)
Lukic will give Marco Silva another option in midfield for the second half of the season
During this period, he established himself at international level for Serbia, representing his country at the recent World Cup in Qatar.
His performance in the Middle East caught the eye of a number of clubs across Europe, who reacted by adding him to their January wishlist.
Lukic pushed to leave Torino in August, and was left out of the squad for the opening game of the season due to his behaviour which was condemned by the club's sporting director.
Torino boss Ivan Juric managed to get Lukic back on board, though, helping the midfielder overcome the disappointment of failing to reach an agreement with the club over a contract extension.
Negotiations over a renewal started once more in the final months of 2022, but an agreement could not be found, and it now seems like the right time for Lukic and Torino to part ways.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11686815/Fulham-close-completing-8-8m-deal-Torinos-Sasa-Lukic.html
Fulham launch bid Fluminense midfielder Andre
Fulham have made a bid to sign Fluminense midfielder Andre, 90min understands.
The 21-year-old has quickly established himself as one of Fluminense's top players and a number of sides across Europe have expressed an interest in luring him away from his homeland in 2023.
Sources have confirmed to 90min that Fulham have approached Fluminense to try and thrash out a deal, but the Brazilian side are reluctant to part ways with their star player during the 2023 campaign.
Andre, who has been linked with the likes of Barcelona and Liverpool, has spoken out about the interest and insisted his focus remains solely on his current employers.
"Obviously, I'm focused and very happy," Andre said recently. "I just renewed my contract until 2026.
"It's normal to get offers, but I'm focused here on Fluminense and having an excellent season."
Andre's agent, Carlos Leite, also took to Instagram to confirm that the 21-year-old had agreed to remain with Fluminense until the end of the current campaign, which runs over the entire calendar year.
"Thanks to the great work carried out, Andre entered the radars of some of the biggest European clubs and, with that, he has received several enquiries and some official proposals," Leite wrote.
"However, the player and Fluminense, through president Mario Bittencourt, sealed an agreement for the midfielder to remain at the club at this time, with all the dedication and commitment, always seeking the best for Fluminense in all competitions."
https://www.90min.com/posts/fulham-launch-bid-fluminense-midfielder-andre
Report – Jimi Gower scores and Daniel Oyetunde debuts as Arsenal U18s draw with Fulham
Arsenal 2 (Kamara 2) Fulham 2 (Gordon 13, Loupalo 37)
For the second game in succession a substitute made a key impact for Arsenal U18s.
After Osman Kamara's heroics against Newcastle United in the FA Youth Cup, today Jimi Gower came off the bench to help Jack Wilshere's side secure a point in a 2-2 draw at home to Fulham.
The U18s were without a host of players, with Elian Quesada-Thorn, Kaleel Green, Michal Rosiak and Harrison Dudziak amongst those who were missing.
Bradley Ibrahim captained the side, with Kamara also starting. U15 goalkeeper Owen Asemota was named on the bench, with U16 forward Daniel Oyetunde also receiving his first callup at this level.
Cooper
Nichols-Robinson-Brown-Quamina
Ibrahim-Ismail Oulad M'Hand
Ferdinand-Roberts-Kamara
Benjamin
Subs: Kacurri (for Brown, 64), Gower (for Ismail Oulad M'Hand, 64), Oyetunde (for Roberts, 77). Not used: Asemota.
Arsenal made a flying start, with Kamara opening the scoring after just two minutes as he was set up by Ismail Oulad M'Hand.
However, Fulham were in front by half time as Lemar Gordon equalised before the prolific Aaron Loupalo made it 2-1.
Just after the hour mark Maldini Kacurri made his return from injury as he replaced Luis Brown, while Gower came on for Ismail.
The latter change proved to be inspired as just four minutes after his introduction Gower scored after being found by Kamara.
Oyetunde, who will be part of next season's scholarship intake, then made his U18 debut as he replaced Mathaeus Roberts.
Arsenal were searching for a winner but in the end they had to settle for a point.
The next game for Wilshere's team is away to Watford in the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup.
https://arsenalyouth.wordpress.com/2023/01/28/report-jimi-gower-scores-and-daniel-oyetunde-debuts-as-arsenal-u18s-draw-with-fulham/
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FnkDsw4X0AARDLx?format=jpg&name=medium)
Torino agree Lukic sale to Fulham
Torino have reportedly agreed terms to sell midfielder Sasa Lukic to Premier League side Fulham for €10m plus add-ons.
According to multiple sources in Italy, including Sportitalia and Tuttomercatoweb, the deal is practically done and will be concluded in a conference call today.
At that point, Lukic can fly out to London for his medical and to sign the contract.
He is only tied to the Granata until June 2024 and the asking price had been €15m, but it's reported they have agreed to make the sale for €10m plus circa €3m in various performance-related bonuses.
Lukic is set to sign a contract worth €2.2m per season net until June 2027.
The 26-year-old is a Serbia international with 35 senior caps for his country and started all three of their games at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
He is making way for Verona midfielder Ivan Ilic, who turned down Olympique Marseille so that he could join Ivan Juric at Torino.
https://football-italia.net/torino-agree-lukic-sale-to-fulham/
Leeds transfer news: Weston McKennie deal agreed
Jesse Marsch's Leeds United have beaten late interest from Steve Cooper's Nottingham Forest and Marco Silva's Fulham to agree a deal with Juventus over the transfer of Weston McKennie, according to The Daily Mail.
Leeds beat Nottingham Forest and Fulham to Weston McKennie
The report has claimed that Nottingham Forest and Fulham made late moves to snap up McKennie, but it is Leeds who have managed to get a deal done.
The West Yorkshire club will bring the USA international midfielder to Elland Road on a loan deal in the final days of the January transfer window, with the option to make it permanent for £30 million in the summer of 2023.
Exciting
In our view, Weston McKennie is a very good and exciting signing for Leeds United.
That the USA international was playing for a massive club such as Juventus shows his quality.
The 24-year-old will make Leeds better in the middle of the park.
It must be a relief for Leeds that they have been able to get the deal done despite late interest from Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest and Fulham.
Leeds are aiming to avoid the dreaded drop to the Championship at the end of the season, and McKennie will enhance their chances of doing just that.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/01/28/leeds-transfer-news-weston-mckennie-deal-agreed/
