Monday Fulham Stuff - 19/08/24...

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Results

Sunday 18/08
Brentford	2-1	Palace
Chelsea	0-2	Man City

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Jack and Loz Not at Old Trafford - Blog 283
Date: 16th August 2024
Opposition: Manchester United
Venue: Same Old Trafford
Score: 1-0
MOTM: in a contest between Captain Bernd Leno and a rejuvenated Kenny Tete, Bernd just edges it with a series of super saves - one of which came from a point blank range shot which he created himself just to make sure he won the award
Dinner: Jack - prawn stir fry; Loz - aubergine parmigiana

145 years old. Like a giant tortoise or a cask of contraband, the best football club in the world celebrated its 145th anniversary on the opening day of the season.

Unfortunately, because Fulham's birthday party was organised by the Premier League who only like big clubs the venue was Old Trafford, a place where Fulham fans don't often get to celebrate. However, following the tantalising signing of Emile Smith Rowe and a pre-season which left Marco Silva so upbeat he substituted his usual black jumper for a bright, cheerful....er, grey one, we approached the league's opening night with more excitement than trepidation. Football was back. Fulham were back. Normality was restored.

But just how normal was that normality going to be? Was Fulham's last victorious trip to Old Trafford a blip or is 2024-25 going to be another season of successes against the big teams?

Fulham started the game well. The departure of Joao Palhinha (amongst many others) and the recruitment of Emile (amongst....some others) meant changes in personnel but no change to the familiar rigid but flexible structure of the team or the Never Stop Attacking game plan.

Adama looked fast and lively. Muniz looked....lively. Iwobi looked lively at times. Andreas, playing further back than last season, looked confused (although that might be something to do with his new hairstyle). Emile looked good on the ball but sometimes had to drop very deep to get it. Give or take a few terrifying moments when Bassey received the ball and didn't have a clue what to do with it, the defence looked solid and Antonee was quick (obviously) to remind everyone why he is Fulham's reigning Player of the Season.

We looked purposeful but no one could grab control of the game. Everyone (except the Fulham fans whose singing was as loud and polished as ever) looked rusty. More passes were misplaced than not, players looked surprised to find their teammates weren't where they thought they would be and whilst the attacking intent was good the final ball was abysmal. Playing out from the back looked suicidal but long goal kicks weren't fruitful either.

There were some promising Moments in the box thanks to Adama and Muniz but the best chance of the first half was created and taken by Kenny Tete, bursting forward and shooting accurately from range.

Unfortunately, this attempt woke up the United team who had previously been pressing well but doing little else and Fulham spent the rest of the first half defending, more or less effectively.

If the first half was organised chaos, the second was 45 minutes of living very dangerously and repeating mistakes. Adama couldn't even pass the ball much less cross it and this was far from ideal when the main method of attack seemed to be Give it to Adama and Let Him Run With it. Muniz attempted a bicycle kick but failed, Antonee attempted a cross with his right foot but failed, but the biggest failure was Andreas messing up a sprint to the goal with no one but the keeper to beat when he got there. Ah well, we'll put that one down to opening night nerves.

Meanwhile, Leno was making more frequent and ever better saves, Diop was growing into the game and - whisper it quietly - Lukić was doing that thing all good CDMs do where you don't notice them but it's precisely because you don't notice them that you know they're playing well.

Fulham had plenty of corners and a few good moves. The game was very open and could have gone either way until the subs came on. Eric The Bald brought on players who have played in the Champions League for clubs like Bayern Munich. Marco Silva brought on players who have played in the Championship for clubs like Birmingham City.

Emile, understandably, ran out steam quickly. We were pleased to see Tom but our pleasure evaporated when he started to play and did little except contribute to United's goal. Raúl and Harry did less and Harrison and Jay had no time to do anything even if they'd wanted to.

The goal was annoying but not unexpected. Fulham had fought hard - and fought well at times - but couldn't hold on any longer. For our as-yet-incomplete team to come out of a tricky fixture at an unhappy hunting ground with only a one goal deficit and easier games to come isn't a disaster. But in order to capitalise on those easier games, improvements - and more recruits - are needed at Adama's pace not Tom Cairney's.

Random Musings:-

- on the subject of Tom, when he came on he didn't take the armband from Bernd

- on the subject of recruits, Marco seems confident that they're on their way

- On the subject of improvements....ok, let's not go there

- that was Kenny's 100th game for Fulham and he certainly played it in style

- There were lots of yellow cards but the ref was ok

- The design of the new Premier League ball is boring

- Did Andreas and Raúl get a 2 for 1 deal on the haircuts? Even if they did, they were robbed.

More than anything, this match showed the difference between pre-season where Fulham were flying and the Premier League where it looked like everyone had forgotten how to play football. But, as we know, this is a league which shows no mercy and a slow-starting club can get left behind very quickly.

So the normality which has been restored is Fulham losing at Old Trafford but dropping enough hints of better performances to come to suggest that this could be a very intriguing season.



https://werdsmith.com/p/UeH9vZTpNdPMWV

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Blackburn Rovers want move for Fulham striker
Blackburn Rovers are keen on a move for Fulham striker Jay Stansfield, according to reporter Alan Nixon on his Patreon page.

Blackburn Rovers could make a move for the Premier League attacker following the sale of Sammie Szmodics to Premier League new boys Ipswich Town. They drew 2-2 away at Norwich City at Carrow Road this weekend after goals by Ryan Hedges and Yuki Ohashi.

Stansfield, 21, is under contract at Fulham until June 2027 but his long-term future at Craven Cottage is up in the air right now. The Whites were beaten in the opening game of the new top flight season 1-0 away at Manchester United.

In this latest update regarding the player's future with his current club, journalist Nixon has reported on his Patreon that he is available for a fee of £6million. He is also wanted by Birmingham City in this window but they have yet to meet his valuation.

Blackburn Rovers want striker
Stansfield would be ideal for Blackburn Rovers and would fill the void left by Szmodics' exit to Ipswich Town.

He spent the last campaign on loan at Birmingham City to get some experience under his belt and went on to score 13 goals in 47 games in all competitions, 12 of which came in the league. Despite the Blues' relegation to League One along with Rotherham United and Huddersfield Town, he still impressed during his time in the Midlands.

Luring him to Ewood Park would be a statement of intent by John Eustace's side and he would boost their striking options.

Football Insider have reported that he is on Stoke City's radar and that the Potters have held 'talks' over a potential move.

The youngster rose up through the academy ranks at Exeter City and was a regular for the Grecians at various different youth levels before he was snapped up by Fulham.

Stansfield has since played eight times for the Cottagers' first-team and has chipped in with a single goal.

Prior to his spell at Birmingham City, he had a temporary stint back at Exeter City to boost his development and found the net on nine occasions in 39 outings.

His chances of breaking into Fulham's starting XI in the top flight are slim due to the senior options that they have at their disposal in his position. Therefore, an exit wouldn't be a surprise.

What next?
Blackburn Rovers need to replace the goals that Szmodics fired in for them and Stansfield would be a top signing if they got him.

They are back in action next weekend at home to Oxford United.




https://the72.co.uk/2024/08/18/blackburn-rovers-want-fulham-jay-stansfield/

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Blackburn target Stansfield move
Blackburn Rovers will test Fulham's resolve to keep hold of striker Jay Stansfield as they seek to sign a replacement for Sammie Szmodics, according to Alan Nixon.

The veteran reporter suggests that Rovers are confident they could sign the England under-21 forward for around £6m. Birmingham City had two offers rejected earlier this summer and Fulham head coach Marco Silva revealed last week that the Premier League side had also turned done several approaches by Championship clubs.

Silva has insisted that Stansfield, who was a late substitute as the Whites suffered a heartbreaking loss at Manchester United on Friday, will be staying at Craven Cottage as part of Fulham's first-team squad.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/blackburn-target-stansfield-move/

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Man Utd offer McTominay on loan with obligation to buy, Napoli unwilling to consider this path
Manchester United are looking to sign a new defensive midfielder before the transfer window closes.

Paris Saint-Germain ace Manuel Ugarte has been identified as the priority target, but the club are currently not in a position to meet the demands of the French champions.

Les Parisiens want £51 million for the Uruguay international, but the Red Devils remain optimistic of securing a discount. Agent Jorge Mendes is working hard on the move.

While this happens, the club may need to offload a midfielder from the squad to free up space and funds, and McTominay seems the likely candidate to head for the exit door.

Tutto Mercato Web claim that Napoli are interested in signing the Scotland international.

United value their midfielder at £30 million which appears a stumbling block.

The Red Devils are prepared to settle for a loan deal for McTominay with an obligation to buy next summer, but the Serie A giants are unwilling to consider this path.

McTominay could still leave for a new holding midfielder
The United graduate has been in-and-out of the starting line-up under manager Erik ten Hag. His situation may not improve with the club eyeing a defensive midfielder.

Napoli are interested in his services and it has also been reported that McTominay would be open to joining Antonio Conte's side. However, a deal is unlikely as things stand.

The 27-year-old still has interest from several other clubs. Fulham recently made a £20m bid which was turned down. The London outfit could come up with a renewed offer.

In our view, McTominay could head for the exit door this month if United sign Ugarte or any other holding midfielder. Burnley's Sander Berge is another player on their radar.

The Scot played just 11 minutes off the bench during the Premier League curtain-raiser against Fulham. He completed 100 percent of his passes, winning his only aerial duel.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com



https://manutdnews.com/man-utd-offer-mctominay-on-loan-with-obligation-to-buy-napoli-unwilling-to-consider-this-path/

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Fulham Star In Big Demand With Suitors In Four Different Countries
Clubs from Spain, Holland, Turkey and Germany are all interested in a Fulham defender who is expected to leave before the transfer window closes.

Cottagers boss Marco Silva has dipped into the market, notably splashing the cash to land Emile Smith Rowe from Arsenal.

He is expected to add more fresh faces over the course of the next two weeks, but players will also head out of Craven Cottage.

One player tipped to go is full-back Kevin Mbabu, who has returned from a loan spell in Germany at Augsburg.

According to Swiss daily Blick, Mbabu has interest from clubs in Spain, Holland, Germany and Turkey.

The defender has just one year left on his Fulham contract and he is expected to go.

Mbabu made 25 appearances for Augsburg in the Bundesliga over the course of last season, but it was not enough to get him into Switzerland's squad for Euro 2024.

The defender, who counts Young Boys and Wolfsburg amongst his former clubs, was in the provisional squad, but did not make the final cut.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/08/18/fulham-star-in-big-demand-with-suitors-in-four-different-countries/657099/#google_vignette

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Crystal Palace 'Advancing in Talks' for Maxence Lacroix
 Crystal Palace have identified Maxence Lacroix as a possible replacement for either Marc Guehi, who is a target for Newcastle United or Joachim Andersen, who Fulham are eyeing, and are currently in talks with VfL Wolfsburg over a deal for the Frenchman, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Following Oliver Glasner's appointment as manager at Selhurst Park, the Eagles have looked very impressive. A lot of focus was placed on their bright attacking talent, such as Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise. There was also plenty of attention paid to newboy Adam Wharton who has shone in the middle of the park.

The club's superstar centre-back pairing of Guehi and Andersen have also been vital for the team and, with Olise having already been lured away from Palace this summer, joining Bayern Munich, they might also lose one of Guehi or Andersen and have identified Lacroix as the ideal replacement if that happens.

Palace are in 'Advanced Talks' with Lacroix
He is top priority if they lose one of their centre-backs
One of the caveats that comes with a team finding some form, is the fact that their players then attract interest from elsewhere. Both Guehi and Andersen have caught the attention of different clubs this summer. The former has been the subject of several bids from Newcastle United. Palace had stood firm and rejected each one so far, refusing to let the Englishman leave for anything less than £70m.

 The latter is on the radar of Fulham and the Cottagers are keen to bring the man who once spent a season on loan at the club back to Craven Cottage. Marco Silva's men have also already had bids turned down by the Eagles this summer, but Palace are working on a replacement should either man actually leave the club and that's led them to Lacroix.

According to Romano, the Premier League club are in advanced talks with Wolfsburg and the Frenchman and he is currently their top priority should they lose either of their starting centre-backs.

Lacroix Has Already Agreed Terms With Palace
They're yet to agree to a deal with Wolfsburg
 Lacroix has already agreed to terms with Palace and is interested in moving to the Premier League, but the club are yet to reach an agreement with Wolfsburg and remain locked in negotiations with the Bundesliga side. The club are reluctant to sell and it's easy to see why.

The 24-year-old was a regular fixture in the Wolfsburg lineup last season, playing 31 times across all competitions for the club. He scored four goals for the club throughout the campaign and only Joakim Maehle (2.1) averaged more tackles a game (1.7), while no one averaged more clearances a game (4.1) than the former Sochaux man.

 Lacroix also picked up three red cards throughout the campaign, which leaves some concern towards his discipline, but for the most part, he's a solid replacement for either Guehi or Andersen should one of the stars leave Selhurst Park this summer.

All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt and WhoScored



https://www.givemesport.com/crystal-palace-want-maxence-lacroix/

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'I''ve had offers' - Former Fulham, Millwall and QPR man makes retirement admission
A former striker of a number of London sides has admitted he is strongly considering retirement.

Former Fulham, Millwall and QPR striker Matt Smith has admitted he will likely hang up his boots despite receiving plenty of offers this summer. Smith enjoyed a sold spell at The Den between 2019 and 2022, scoring 17 goals in 91 league appearances, while he scored 21 goals in 92 league appearances for QPR between 2017 and 2019.

Smith departed London in 2022 and linked up with the Class of 92's Salford City. Since making that move, the target man has been in superb scoring form, netting 40 goals in 95 league appearances, but he was released this summer. The 35-year-old broke into the top two divisions relatively late in his career after he was signed by Leeds United in 2013, and he joined Fulham a year later. He netted nine goals in 51 league appearances for the Cottagers between 2014 and 2017.

After leaving Salford at age 35, Smith has received offers, but he says he is leaning towards retirement, keen to go out on his own terms. He told Breaking Lines podcast: "Being brutally honest, I think this is it. I haven't announced my retirement and I've had five or six loose offers, similar to what I had at Salford.

"I think what what I'm trying to balance off is the next 10 years and the next 10 months. I'm trying to look a bit longer term, which is why I'm here where I am right now, which is in an office and not on a pitch somewhere. Never say never but slowly I'm getting around to the idea this could be it. It was always my intention to leave on my own terms with my head held high. I kind of feel I'm in that position now.

"I've had five or six managers ask me if I want to come in – I've not told them the last time I went for a run was the last game of last season, they might rethink their decision. I probably need another month to get back to some sort of fitness!"



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/millwall/ive-had-offers-former-fulham-millwall-and-qpr-man-makes-retirement-admission-4746600

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Everton step up talks to sign Edoardo Bove, Fulham also keen
Everton are reportedly interested in signing 22-year-old Roma midfielder Edoardo Bove this summer, with Fulham also interested in him.

According to a report from Gazzetta dello Sport via Sport Witness, Everton have now intensified contacts to sign AS Roma midfielder Edoardo Bove, and he will cost them €15 million this summer.

Everton are not the only club keen on him, and they will face competition from Premier League rivals Fulham. It remains to be seen whether Everton are willing to pay the €15 million asking price for the player. They need to add more quality and depth to their midfield unit, and Bove would be a solid, long-term acquisition.

He could prove to be a bargain at €15 million if Everton can get the deal done. The midfielder is young enough to develop further, and he could easily justify the investment in the long term. The asking price seems quite reasonable in today's market, and the English clubs certainly have the financial muscle to pay up.

The 22-year-old Italian midfielder will add creativity and control to the side. Everton are lacking in a specialist central midfielder who can keep things ticking in the middle of the park and help them dominate the game. He has the qualities to develop into a complete central midfielder, and Everton should do everything in their power to get the deal done.

Fulham keen on Edoardo Bove
Fulham are looking to add more technical ability in the middle of the park as well, and it is no surprise that they are looking at the Italian midfielder. He has a contract with AS Roma until 2028, and it remains to be seen whether Everton and Fulham are ready to pay the asking price and get the deal done.

He has a long-term contract with the Italian club, and AS Roma are unlikely to lower they are asking price for him. Meanwhile, the midfielder will certainly be tempted to move to the Premier League, and the opportunity to play for Everton and Fulham will be quite exciting for him.

Regular football in the Premier League could help him improve, and it could accelerate his development. It remains to be seen where he ends up eventually.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/08/18/everton-step-up-talks-to-sign-edoardo-bove-fulham-also-keen/

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Chelsea and Fulham given perfect opportunity to land Liverpool transfer as asking price emerges
Chelsea and Fulham may be able to get their hands on one of their reported defensive target this summer.

Chelsea and Fulham may have their opportunity to sign a current Liverpool star after an interesting development at Anfield. The Blues open their Premier League account on Sunday against Manchester City, while Fulham were unlucky to lose to Manchester United on Friday night.

Liverpool wore down newly promoted Ipswich Town to win 2-0 in Saturday's early kick-off, and defender Joe Gomez was absent for the clash. According to the Daily Mail, Gomez has decided to move on from Liverpool to secure more regular first team minutes. The centre-back made 32 league appearances last season but only started 17 of those games, with the Reds having a wealth of options at the back, including Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.

The report claims Gomez is now looking to move on, and Liverpool will sanction a deal for his exit, though they are not expected to force out the England international, happy for him to stay and rejoin Arne Slot's squad if a transfer does not pan out.

The Times, say Chelsea and Fulham are two of the interested clubs, with plenty of Premier League interest already being generated. Fulham lost Tosin Adarabioyo and Tim Ream this summer, but they did manage to snap up Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal. Chelsea, of course, signed Adarabioyo, but they did lose Thiago Silva.

Recent reports have claimed Liverpool want around £30million to £35million to sell Gomez, and Aston Villa and Newcastle United are said to be the early clubs pushing for a deal. It would be a big fee for Fulham to pay after they spent a similar amount on Emile Smith Rowe. Newcastle were heavily linked with a move for Gomez earlier in the window, and the English star could be a bargain option for them after seeing offers of more than £65million rejected for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.

Gomez had a strong end to last season, earning an England return. Speaking towards the end of the season to Liverpool's media team, he said: "I'm really enjoying my football. Obviously we had a good phase at the club when we won the league and so on. But obviously this year has been different for me, playing in different places.

"It's hard for me to judge. I was obviously younger and enjoying it then, playing centre-half mostly. I'm definitely enjoying it. It helps when the team is doing well and when we're winning games – that plays a big part. Personally, I don't know, I'm just appreciating the moment, I'm not really worrying about where I've been or where I've got to go, just being here now and embracing it is the main thing."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/chelsea/chelsea-and-fulham-given-perfect-opportunity-to-land-liverpool-transfer-as-asking-price-emerges-4746614

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Everton 'intensify talks' to sign Serie A midfielder but Fulham, Fiorentina pose transfer threat
Everton want to bring in a new midfielder before the transfer window slams shut and are competing with Fulham for a Roma star, per reports.

The Toffees started their Premier League season with a dismal 3-0 loss to Brighton on Saturday, highlighting their need for further reinforcements.

Despite the result, young midfielder Tim Iroegbunam was one of the bright sparks for Everton, but sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk that Sean Dyche wants more cover in that area.

Everton's financial situation means that they are focusing on loan deals and have missed out on three targets in recent days – Kalvin Phillips, Jens Cajuste and Lesley Ugochukwu.

As previously reported, Roma's Edoardo Bove is another player of interest to the Toffees and their positive relationship with the Italian club could help them negotiate a deal.

Roma's owners, the Friedkin Group, were previously in talks to take over the Toffees and signed an exclusivity agreement with majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri.

The takeover ultimately collapsed, but the Friedkin Group still have £200m invested in Everton and they remain on good terms with the club.

Bove could be a midfield option Everton turn to towards the end of the window but according to reports from Italy, Fulham are also considering a swoop for him.

Everton ramp up interest in Roma star
Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Everton have 'intensified contacts' with Roma over a potential deal for Bove in recent days.

It's reported that the Toffees have 'made another move' for the 22-year-old but Roma's preference would be to sell rather than loan him out.

The Giallorossi value Bove at €15m (approx. £12.8m) and are willing to part ways with him as manager Daniele de Rossi looks to rebuild his squad.

Everton are willing to 'negotiate quickly' for Bove but Fulham and Fiorentina are also 'keeping an eye on him,' so the race is far from over.

Whether the Toffees can afford to splash £12.8m on the youngster also could depend on whether they sell any more players before the end of the month.

As we exclusively revealed weeks ago, Everton are actively looking to sell Neal Maupay, Mason Holgate and Michael Keane – but are yet to receive any concrete interest in the trio.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin's future at Goodison Park is also uncertain. He has less than 12 months remaining on his contract and Everton's attempts to tie him down to fresh terms have thus far been unsuccessful.

Dyche is desperate to keep the centre-forward but a sizeable offer could force Everton into a sale, with Manchester United among the clubs keeping tabs on him.



https://www.teamtalk.com/everton/intensify-talks-to-sign-serie-a-midfielder-everton-fulham-fiorentina-pose-transfer-threat

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Fulham Women 6-0 Barking Women
Fulham Women got their 2024/25 campaign off to a sensational start with a 6-0 win over Barking Women at Craven Cottage.

In front of more than 1,500 spectators, a rapid start to proceedings saw the Whites take the game by the scruff of the neck, with both Becky Stormer and Sophie Manzi on the scoresheet inside 12 minutes.

Barking grew into the game but could not cope when Fulham upped the tempo in the second half.

The lively Ellie Olds netted from close range, Madi Parsonson bent in a beauty and Ella Tagliavini bagged a header in a rampant display, with a 90th minute own goal adding some gloss to the scoreline on an excellent afternoon in SW6.

A positive start to proceedings was rewarded with an early free-kick when Sasha Adamson was fouled 20 yards from goal, just left of centre. Lily Stevens got her delivery up and over the wall, but it was a comfortable enough stop for visiting goalkeeper Darcie Salmons.

It was another set-piece that brought the opener in the 10th minute. A short corner was played to Megalie Mendes who curled an inviting cross to Stormer at the far post, who planted a firm header back across goal and beyond Salmons.

One became two just seconds later. Olds burst down the left flank of the penalty area before cutting the ball back across the six yard box to Manzi who made no mistake.

Manzi then thought she'd netted a quickfire brace when she volleyed home Olds' left wing delivery, but the flag was up quickly to cut the celebrations short.

Fulham were in the groove, though, with Adamson drawing another save from Salmons bang on 16 minutes.

A sloppy clearance from Salmons gave Parsonson the opportunity to run into the area, cutting back to Olds at the byline who shot straight at the relieved Salmons.

Compared to the lightning fast start to the game, the middle chunk of the first half was a lot less eventful, though Olds did test Salmons' alertness when chancing her arm from 30 yards.

Amber Webber had had a quiet Sunday afternoon in the Fulham goal, not called upon until five minutes before the break when she comfortably caught a free-kick from Barking captain Laura Bunton.

The Whites thought they'd sewn up the points with the final action of the half when Olds made firm contact at a corner, but her header thwacked against the crossbar, with Manzi then sending the loose ball over.

The second half began as the first ended, with Olds getting her head on a corner only to see this one saved by Salmons, before Manzi struck the foot of the post.

Mendes was getting some joy as an inverted full-back, forcing Salmons into a sprawling save having let fly from the edge of the box after cutting in from the left.

More good work from Mendes fashioned a sight of goal for Manzi, who saw her strike loop up off a defender and behind for a corner, which led to goal number three.

Stevens' delivery was so dangerous, dropping into the six yard box, and with no blue shirt able to hack clear, Olds managed to force the ball over the line to make the points safe.

The pick of the goals was still to come, though. Substitute Tagliavini found space on the right flank and cut back to Parsonson who chopped beyond her marker and then bent an exquisite strike inside the far post with the outside of her right boot.

Tagliavini then went from provider to scorer, stooping to nod home a terrific cross from Olds who had motored down the left.

With the game won, chances were less frequent in the closing stages, but Isabel Taylor-Makepeace went close when the Barking defence parted in front of her, with Salmons making herself big to repel the incoming shot at the end of her run.

There was still time for number six, with the unfortunate Salmons accidentally scooping Olds' ball across the face into her own net, wrapping up the perfect start to the new season for FFCW.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/august/18/Fulham-Women-6-0-Barking-Women/

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Positives and negatives: Manchester United 1-0 Fulham

Manchester United welcomed Fulham in the opening fixture of the 2024/25 season on Friday and while it wasn't our night under the lights at the Theatre of Dreams, the positives heavily outweigh the negatives.

Positives

Bernd's brilliant handiwork

We may well have lost, the ball may have found its way into Bernd Leno's net, but if it wasn't for the Germany stopper's supreme exploits, our goal difference could've taken a heftier flogging. Outside the top six, possibly even in comparison to some teams within that bracket, we have an elite keeper and I don't say that loosely either. He genuinely is an astounding warden of the sticks.

He knew where to tread in relation to play ahead of him, he was typically commanding at set-pieces and while a wayward pass of his found its way to Bruno Fernandes, he spread himself expertly to defy the odds and atone his error. He reduced Fernandes to a gargling rat-faced wreck as well, and that alone is worthy of glowing plaudits.

Being a goalkeeper has to be ridiculously frustrating, though. A string of superb saves could stand for nothing in the blink of an eye, but this loss isn't to Leno's detriment whatsoever. He was brilliant as ever and to this day, I still pinch myself when I see Bernd's name on the team sheet. His involvement is vitally important and though he couldn't record a clean sheet in our opening game, he can be proud of his handiwork.

Adama cooked "The Butcher"

Lisandro Martinez ain't that guy and he never will be. He bragged on social media of silencing Adama Traore but that couldn't be further from the truth because "The Butcher" was marinaded and cooked alive, rotisserie style, by our resident baby oil enthusiast and shareholder.

Time and time again, Traore knocked the ball into clear space behind United's dinky defender and engaged the afterburners. The Spaniard made a habit of hitting the byline as Martinez chugged in retreat and if this is what we're to expect of him this season, fullbacks are in for a pasting beyond belief. The man is dangerous with a capital D and his biceps are the stuff of legend.

In Portugal and Germany, Adama was scintillating and if he can carry his preseason form into the games ahead, we could witness frightening performances like no other. He was used sparingly by Silva last season between spells on the sideline but this season, if he can remain injury free, he is a starter. This version of Traore doesn't get rested, he benches you instead.

Tete was terrific

We've two terrific right-backs in Timothy Castagne and Kenny Tete, it's arguably our strongest position overall and though both professionals will want to compete each and every week from the off, this season may well be Kenny's to take back from Timmy.

Last season, Castagne was seen to be Silva's first choice right-back with good measure, but it'd be foolish to abandon Tete and in Manchester, the Dutchman reminded us of his undeniable quality. He didn't allow United's interchanging attack a minute's peace when they attempted to advance down the right and he was seldom beaten in one-on-one duels. His combativeness is his strongest asset and it's that attitude that makes him such an awkward defender to get the better of.

Horses for courses. With Kenny, we can rely on his defensive attributes and in Timmy, we can trust his offensive ability more so. It's all dependant on who we face and how we intend to set up but against United, Tete was the correct option because we needed to ensure that our defensive structure remained as solid and as stubborn as possible.

He also forced Andre Onana into a fine flying save in the first half as he let rip from range, so while Castagne's perceived to be the more able attacker of the two, sleeping on Tete isn't advised. Either way, we are spoiled for choice where capable fullbacks are concerned and that will always stand us in good stead. Well in, Kung Fu Kenny!

Sasa set his standards

Partnered by Andreas Pereira in the centre of the park, Sasa Lukic's core responsibility was to shore things up while his attack-minded teammates progressed and while he's no Joao Palhinha, I'd say he did a suitable job against United's opposite numbers and that I can applaud.

The Serbia international was aware of his surroundings in esteemed company, he was irrepressible when the ball was there to be won and when he had to eat up the hard yards, he made his presence known. He set his own standards and if he can continue at a similar level for the foreseeable, he'll become a hard component to drop from our starting XI.

We're in the market for a direct Palhinha replacement, a proper enforcer to safeguard our spine and if another central midfielder also materialises, so be it. Lukic, however, has done himself a few favours in terms of justifying his standing on the pecking order and he isn't here to make up the numbers, either.

ESR's competitive debut

He isn't fully fit yet, which was evident, but on Emile Smith Rowe's competitive debut for the Whites, the 24-year-old showed glimpses of why he was regarded so highly at Arsenal and I cannot wait to see what he'll be able to conjure up when he hits 100%.

What I did notice and appreciate in ESR was the subtlety in which he retrieved possession, and how developed passing patterns without being needlessly elaborate. You can tell he was schooled in the right way in north London. Smith Rowe has immense talent, that's never been questioned, but the simplicity in his approach at Old Trafford was almost relieving.

Without overcomplicating matters, Smith Rowe gave a decent account of himself with featherlight touches, agile feints and as he gradually warms to his on-field duties in Silva's system, the "Croydon De Bruyne" will undoubtedly live up to his moniker. He'll admit himself that he wasn't at his best, but he is a work in progress and the final draft is going to be a masterpiece.

Negatives

Limited clear-cut chances

It amazed me that we somehow registered 10 shots in total. What wasn't surprising, though, is that only two of those efforts were on target. Perhaps without Willian's willingness to carry, a red-hot Rodrigo Muniz and an attacking midfielder with functioning ears, eyes and legs, the Whites were always bound to be up against it.

Whatever the excuse, we were understandably rusty – first game cobwebs and all that – and clear-cut chances were limited by our own design moving forward. There's one phase midway through the second half that juts out like a smouldering Vauxhall Vectra, and I don't think it requires much of an introduction.

A freeze frame posted on Fulhamish's X account is incriminating. With Alex Iwobi in acres on the left, unmarked, Pereira was well and truly in the driver's seat as Fulham sprung on the counter. Harry Maguire was stranded, a simple slip into Iwobi's path was Pereira's only job and he made a stinking meal of it. He hasn't played for United in quite some time now, but you'd be mistaken given the placement of his pass, which bobbled invitingly to Maguire's instep. I don't know how he managed it.

I don't want to waste my energy on digging Andreas out, we're one game into the campaign and begrudgingly, glaring mistakes happen. Ultimately, we didn't ask too many difficult questions of a half-baked United and as we prepare for Leicester City next Saturday, we have obvious work to do on the training field, just to finetune our timing and composition in the final third. It'll come, people. We were fairly convincing during pre-season, we simply need to slip into gear again and that I've no doubt of.

Down at the death

Snatching points at Old Trafford is a rarity for us, other than that season's victory, of course, and while we did in fact steal the spoils in the closing moments in February, it was United that found the winner at the death this time out and it made me want to blow chunks of half-digested chicken balti pie.

We held firm throughout until that crucial moment, we were solid as a defensive unit but as it pans out so often, one lapse of concentration and collective positioning was enough for Joshua Zirkzee to squirm his effort past Leno in the 87th minute. Pain. Just pain.

A point apiece was probably the correct outcome for both teams but here we are. The hosts were particularly average, they'd threatened the target more than us but given the rich pool of superstars they have at their disposal, they were wildly uninspired and that's why this defeat feels so wrong. Still, a loss in Manchester is commonplace, it could've been by a wider margin and, well, we didn't really do much ourselves in terms of altering the score line.

It was a great test at the start of the season with plenty of constructive points to take stock of. We clearly require attacking additions as well as a few defensive reinforcements but falling to an L by one single goal, as harsh as it felt, isn't a damning indictment and it isn't indicative of where this club of ours is headed. We've 37 more cracks at the whip. We move.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-08-18-positives-and-negatives-manchester-united-1-0-fulham/?utm_content=cmp-true

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Fulham Go Back Into Talks For Manchester United Midfielder
Fulham are back at the table for Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, according to Sky Sports News.

Marco Silva's side identified the Scotland midfielder as someone they wanted early in the transfer window, but have failed with multiple bids.

Manchester United have slapped an asking price of around £30m on McTominay's head and Fulham have been reluctant to meet that.

Now though Fulham have gone back into talks with Manchester United.

If the talks progress positively then the Cottagers are likely to make a fresh offer for McTominay.

Fulham will be looking to see some level of compromise for the midfielder if a deal is to be struck.

McTominay also has interest from abroad.

Turkish side Galatasaray are interested in the midfielder, while Antonio Conte would like him at Napoli.

Galatasaray though are unlikely to meet the asking price and Conte has limited wiggle room at Napoli, with a loan preferred by the Italians.

McTominay played against Fulham on Friday night.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/08/18/fulham-go-back-into-talks-for-manchester-united-midfielder/657155/

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urkish club chasing Man United midfielder
Manchester United will hope to build on their opening day win over Fulham when they face Brighton and Hove Albion in the next round of Premier League fixtures.

Debutant Joshua Zirkzee's late goal earned Erik ten Hag's side all three points against the Cottagers, who were perhaps unfortunate to lose the game.

Next up for United is a trip to the south coast to face the Seagulls, who defeated Everton 3-0 on Saturday.

In the meantime, though, one of United's fringe players is attracting interest from a Turkish club.

As per Fabrizio Romano, Panathinaikos have expressed interest in United winger Facundo Pellistri.

The Uruguayan joined United from boyhood club Penarol back in 2020 and has since spent time on loan at both Alaves and Granada.

The 25-year-old has played just 25 times for United across all competitions since arriving at Old Trafford, but Romano claims that the Turkish Super Lig side are in advanced talks to sign the player on a permanent basis.

Romano claims that an agreement hasn't yet been reached but that discussions are set to continue this week, with the move a real possibilityfor Pellistri.

The 26-time Uruguay international has less than a year remaining on his current contract with the Red Devils, which means he could sign a pre-contract agreement with any foreign club in January before departing Old Trafford as a free agent next summer.

The Manchester club therefore appear to have made the decision to cash in on Pellistri during the current window.



https://www.shoot.co.uk/turkish-club-chasing-man-united-midfielder/

[WhiteJC]

Club Could 'Decide To Accelerate' After Fulham Resumed Push For Man Utd Star
Napoli may now 'decide to accelerate' for Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay after Fulham got back round the negotiating table with the Red Devils.

Fulham failed with offers for McTominay earlier this summer after refusing to meet Manchester United's asking price for the Scotland international.

They have though just rekindled their interest and are looking to achieve a breakthrough in talks with the Red Devils.

Italian side Napoli have been hoping to sign McTominay and the re-entry of Fulham into the race is a matter of concern for them.

As a result, they may 'decide to accelerate' their own efforts to sign McTominay, according to Italian broadcaster Sportitalia.

Napoli coach Antonio Conte considers McTominay to be a priority target and wants him bringing in.

McTominay is claimed to be open to a move to Napoli, but has been waiting for the club to agree a deal with Manchester United.

In addition to Fulham and Napoli, a further club are in the mix for the midfielder.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/08/18/club-could-decide-to-accelerate-after-fulham-resumed-push-for-man-utd-star/657165/

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Las Palmas make Vinicius bid
Fulham are considering a bid from Las Palmas for their Brazilian centre forward Carlos Vinicius, according to the Times.

The 29 year-old striker, who has scored eight goals in 48 games at Craven Cottage, has a year left on his current contract and is considered surplus to requirements by head coach Marco Silva. Vinicius has also attracted interest from a number of Brazilian clubs, including Corinthians, but a firm bid has yet to materialise.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/las-palmas-make-vinicius-bid/

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Fulham resurrect McTominay move
Fulham have relaunched their pursuit of Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay and set to table a new offer for the Scottish international this week, according to various reports this evening.

The Whites have had two bids rejected for the 27 year-old, who was a second half substitute as Erik ten Hag's side beat the Londoners on Friday night. Fulham were not expected to re-enter the race to sign McTominay, who was reported to have agreed to join Serie A side Napoli over the weekend. The Italians, though, are said to be more open to a loan with an option to buy – whilst United would prefer a straight sale in order to raise funds for a revamp of ten Hag's midfield.

Marco Silva is still searching for a replacement for Joao Palhinha in the last fortnight of the August transfer window and opted to pair Sasa Lukic with former Red Devils playmaker Andreas Pereira in the engine room at Old Trafford. United have previously been holding out for around £40m for McTominay, who has entered the last twelve minutes of his contract with his boyhood club. The two clubs have reopened talks regarding a possible deal.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/fulham-resurrect-mctominay-move/

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Fulham Women hit Barking for six
Fulham Women made a spectacular start to the new season – thrashing Barking Women 6-0 on a sunkissed afternoon at Craven Cottage.

The Whites were on the front foot from the outset with summer signing Lily Stevens testing Darcie Salmons with a 20 yard free-kick and took the lead on ten minutes. A short corner saw Megalie Mendes curl in a teasing delivery that was emphatically headed home by Becky Stormer at the back post.

It took less than a minute for Steve Jaye's side to double their lead. Ellie Olds burst down the left flank and produced a peach of a cross for Sophie Manzie to convert from close-range. Fulham thought they had a third when Manzi lashed in another excellent ball from the lively Olds, but that goal was correctly ruled out for offside.

Salmons did superbly to keep out an effort from Sasha Adamson before the goalkeeper's poor clearance went straight to Madi Parsonson only for Olds to lose her composure in front of goal and shoot straight at a grateful goalkeeper. Barking gradually grew into the contest, with Laura Bunton's free-kick providing Amber Webber's first serious involvement five minutes before half time.

At the other end, Fulham could – and perhaps should – have made sure of the points with the last action of the first period. Olds hit the bar with a header from a corner and, following up, Manzi uncharacteristically fired over the crossbar. The striker struck the woodwork again after the restart, this time hitting the post from a rebound after Salmons had spread herself well to deny Megalie Mendes.

Olds did finally get a deserved goal from another set-piece – bundling the ball over the line after another Stevens corner had caused carnage in the Barking box. Parsonson then produced a sensational strike to make it four, curling a quality strike into the bottom corner on the hour from to cap her all-action performance.

Substitute Ella Tagliavini nodded home another excellent cross from the persistent Olds five minutes later and Fulham's perfect afternoon was complete when the unfortunate Salmons diverted a dangerous delivery from Olds into her own net to round off the scoring.

The Whites will look to make it two wins out of two in the London and South East Regional Premier Division when they take on Millwall at Motspur Park next Sunday.

FULHAM WOMEN: Webber; Gane, Stormer, Dale; Parsonson, Mendes, Barron-Clark, Stevens; Adamson, Olds, Manzi. Subs: Beaver, Tagliavini, Foreman, Taylor-Makepeace, Heasman.

GOALS: Stormer (10), Manzi (11), Olds (59), Parsonson (60), Tagliavini (65), Salmons (o.g. 90).

BARKING WOMEN: Salmons; Bacon, Blyth, Bunton, Hartwell, Hunt, E. Jenks-Landen, H. Jenks-Landen, Scales, Thomas, Ali. Subs: Finch, Meade, F. Pridie, N. Pridie, Reed.

ATTENDANCE: 1,579.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/fulham-women-hit-barking-for-six/