Saturday Fulham Stuff - 24/08/24...

[WhiteJC]

AEW vs WWE is coming to the Premier League: how wrestling has found its way into English football, thanks to Bournemouth and Fulham
The two biggest wrestling companies in the world will go head-to-head.... via the Premier League

For a long time, the only thing the world of American professional football and Premier League football had in common was a monopoly of the Sky Sports channel schedule.

Oh and there was that weird rumour flying around that WWE owner Vince McMahon was going to buy Newcastle United.

But generally, the planet's biggest sport and the biggest sports-entertainment company were worlds apart.

Now that is no longer the case. In recent times - in part thanks to the rise in popularity of the Premier League on the other side of the Atlantic - the two have regularly crossed paths.

Wayne Rooney went to a WWE televised event, sat at ringside and slapped a superstar. For context, this was around a full six years before the former Manchester United forward retired from playing.

Then in 2020, Arsenal started regularly playing WWE entrance themes as part of the Emirates Stadium matchday setlist.

Just earlier this year when Ivan Toney returned from his eight-month FA ban, Brentford heralded his return with the Undertaker's iconic gong and theme song at the Gtech Stadium.

And now the crossover looks set to go to the next level, with two rival wrestling promotions facing off – not in the squared circle – but via the Premier League pitch.

Forget, Undertaker vs Triple H, The Rock vs Stone Cold Steve Austin or Roman Reigns vs John Cena, it's time for the biggest main event of all-time, er... Fulham vs Bournemouth.

Why are Fulham and Bournemouth both connected to the wrestling world?
Fulham's connection to professional wrestling is longstanding and comes via owner Shahid Khan.

Khan's son Tony has ran the Cottagers as vice-chairman for much of the previous decade, but is also the founder and co-owner of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), which launched at the start of 2019 and is the primary mainstream competitor to the industry-leading WWE.

A lifelong pro wrestling fan, Khan even appears on screen as part of the drama from time to time and the AEW has held major live events at Wembley Stadium.

Earlier this month Fulham announced that AEW would be the new shirt sponsor for the women's teams' shirts during the 2024/25 season.

AEW and WWE have a huge rivalry in the wrestling world, with mentions of their direct competitor during their own programming, about as rare as Sky Sports referencing TNT.

Until recently WWE didn't have a horse to back in the Premier League field but that has changed thanks to a new partnership.

AFC Bournemouth have announced what they call "an exciting new partnership with the globally renowned WWE 2K video game series."

This will see content related to the Cherries released through the video game "in the coming weeks."

So until wrestling fans get a genuine crossover showdown event between WWE and AEW, they'll just have to settle for tuning into Fulham taking on Bournemouth at Craven Cottage on December 29.

There will be plenty of midfield flair, not so much Ric Flair.



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/aew-vs-wwe-is-coming-to-the-premier-league-how-wrestling-has-found-its-way-into-english-football-thanks-to-bournemouth-and-fulham

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Fulham knocking on door to sign 'destabilising player' – Can disrupt the opposition
Fulham have become the latest club to be credited with an interest in Girona star Viktor Tsygankov.

The winger impressed for the La Liga side last season and managed eight goals and seven assists from 30 league matches. His displays haven't gone unnoticed in England.

Friday's edition of AS says Fulham are one of the clubs in the picture to sign the 26-year-old.

The Ukraine international was forced to miss the first game of this season against Real Betis. He's now in contention to face Atlético Madrid later this weekend. The newspaper says Tsygankov, Pau López and Bojan Miovski are ready to face Diego Simeone's side.

It's claimed the Ukrainian was a 'destabilising player' for the opposition last season. Therefore, his return is excellent news for Girona and their manager, Míchel.

The report then states 'it's true' that Premier League sides including Fulham are knocking on Tsygankov's door.

Marco Silva's side are the only club to be mentioned in the report. As it stands, the attacker doesn't seem to be interested in joining Fulham and remains focused on the upcoming clash against Atlético.

The same outlet reported in July that Tsygankov has a €30m release clause. If Fulham can convince him, they can secure his services by triggering the clause.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-knocking-on-door-to-sign-destabilising-player-fan-disrupt-the-opposition/

[WhiteJC]

'He made the fans and team click': Mikel Arteta expresses Emile Smith Rowe regret after Arsenal exit
The academy graduate was a key player during Mikel Arteta's early days as manager

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his regret at not getting the best out of Emile Smith Rowe.

The midfielder, who came through Arsenal's academy, left the club this summer to join Fulham as part of a deal that could eventually be worth £34million.

Smith Rowe burst onto the scene during the 2020-21 season, but he slipped down the pecking order at Emirates Stadium and played fewer than 400 minutes in the Premier League last season.

The 24-year-old is one of several academy players who could leave Arsenal this summer, including Eddie Nketiah, and Arteta admitted it is sad to see them go.

"When I had the talk with Emile, I really felt it," he said. "First of all, because I have huge gratitude because he came into the team at a tough moment.

"I think he was the player that made our supporters and the team click, in a way. I don't know how to explain it but that was my feeling. Something changed when he came in the team. He created a different energy straight away.

"And I have a feeling like 'argh', that I have not got the best out of him. Obviously a lot of things happened in that time.

"From my side it was really sad, because I know how those boys feel when they are in that building, how hard everyone works to get them close to the first team, so I feel a huge responsibility to give them the chance. And now, can they sustain this level and make us better? That is the idea."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arteta-smith-rowe-arsenal-fc-regret-b1178109.html

[WhiteJC]

Paul Merson gives Fulham v Leicester City score prediction with 'embarrassing' claim
Paul Merson predicts a tough test for Leicester City when they face Fulham this weekend.

Steve Cooper will be looking to pick up his first three points as Leicester City manager on Saturday.

The Foxes were expected to be in a relegation fight following their promotion to the Premier League this season.

While that could still prove to be the case, the Midlands outfit got their 2024/25 campaign off to an excellent start.

Leicester drew 1-1 with Tottenham Hotspur on Monday evening at the King Power Stadium, with Jamie Vardy's effort canceling out Pedro Porro's opener.

New signing Facundo Buonanotte earned praise from Leicester fans for his display and he will be expected to continue that form into the weekend.

The Foxes travel to Craven Cottage for a 3pm BST kick-off against Marco Silva's Fulham on August 24th.

Paul Merson predicts humbling Leicester City defeat to Fulham
Despite securing a point earlier this week, many continue to right off the Foxes and their chances of staying in the Premier League.

Paul Merson is no different and the former Middlesbrough and Arsenal midfielder has had some choice words for Cooper and his men.

Merson previewed every fixture for the upcoming Premier League gameweek with Sportskeeda and was quick to label Leicester's first-half display against Spurs as 'embarrassing'.

He went on to state that he is backing to pick up a 2-0 win when the two sides meet on Saturday.

Merson wrote: "I thought Fulham were quite decent the other day against Manchester United and I'm backing them to beat Leicester.

"I'm not entirely buying into Leicester despite that draw against Tottenham because their first half display was embarrassing.

"Credit to Jamie Vardy though. If I'm being honest, I saw the first half and I was like, 'you need to retire mate'. But he proved me wrong with the goal and could have scored another one in that match. It's amazing what he does at this age.

"Despite all of that, I don't see Leicester troubling Fulham too much in this clash. I'm backing Marco Silva's men to secure a comfortable win on home turf.

"Prediction: Fulham 2-0 Leicester City"

Fulham may now underestimate Leicester City
While Fulham are being tipped to pick up a win this weekend, Silva's side actually had a worse start to the season than Leicester.

The Londoners faced off with Manchester United on the opening day and fell to a 1-0 defeat.

On paper, Spurs are expected to finish above the Red Devils this season so Leicester earning a point against them should give Cooper and co. a confidence boost.

Fulham ended 2023/24 sat 13th in the Premier League and while they have made a few decent signings, they are not expected to prove anywhere close to the threat Tottenham did on Monday.



https://www.leicestercity.news/news/paul-merson-gives-fulham-v-leicester-city-score-prediction-with-embarrassing-claim/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham and Crystal Palace boost as £12m misfit told he must leave by manager
Whether Fulham manage to secure the services of one of European football's most promising but most mercurial of talents remains to be seen.

HITC reported in midweek that Marco Silva's side had entered discussions, while making a verbal offer of £12 million.

But while Fulham are obviously keen on Rayan Cherki, how keen Rayan Cherki is on Fulham remains a little less certain? Reports emerging from France in the aftermath of those Cottagers talks seem to suggest that Cherki has his reservations.

As such, a transfer saga which has rumbled on throughout the summer might still be subject to a few twists and turns.

Cherki was expected to swap Lyon for Paris Saint-Germain earlier in the window, only for that deal to break down. Borussia Dortmund then moved in but negotiations ended in similar circumstances.

With his contract expiring in 2025 and with Cherki clearly not a key part of head coach Pierre Sage's plans, expect Lyon to turbo-charge their attempts to get the France Under 21 international out the door in the final few days of August.

Fulham and Crystal Palace eye Lyon's Rayan Cherki
Speaking to BeIN Sports ahead of Monaco's visit to the Groupama Stadium on Saturday, Sage indicated that Cherki may be forced to train with the Lyon reserves if he stays put, in what may be viewed as a less-than-subtle attempt to push the academy graduate out of the back door.

"Concerning Rayan Cherki, there has always been a departure in the background, with all the communication that there was around him," says Sage, who remarkably took Lyon into Europe last season after arriving at a club fearing relegation.

"We were waiting for him (to go to) Paris. Then, we talked about it with Dortmund. Then, many other clubs.

"So it's true that, for us, we are preparing more for him to leave. Given that there is no short-term projection for him in the squad, there may be no point in him training with us."

HITC understands that Crystal Palace are also in the mix alongside their London neighbours and the Joachim Andersen-bound Fulham.

The Eagles have not gone quite as far as Marco Silva's side have in pursuit of the gifted but erratic 21-year-old. Though, with American businessman John Textor a co-owner of both clubs, discussions with Palace could prove to be rather more straightforward than with Fulham.

"We will see what happens on August 31," Sage adds. "Because, if at that time he is still an Olympique Lyonnais player, the problem will be a little different. But I am not sure that this (will be) the case."

Lyon want to sell thd former PSG target
Cherki, Ligue 1 expert Jonathan Johnson tells Caught Offside, is perhaps Lyon's most gifted academy graduate since the legendary Karim Benzema. The French football fanatic also sees similarities with a young, Lille-era Eden Hazard.

But, while Cherki's ability has never been in doubt, the concern for many is that he maybe lacks the mentality to follow in Benzema's footsteps.

Rather more unflattering comparisons with Hatem Ben Arfa – a classic case of wasted potential if there ever was on – sum up the feelings towards Cherki across the Channel.

"Regarding Rayan, we spoke with him at the beginning of the summer. We are still in discussions to find a solution," Lyon director David Friio recently told Le Progres, via Made in Foot.

"He will certainly leave, yes."



https://www.hitc.com/fulham-and-crystal-palace-boost-as-12m-misfit-told-he-must-leave-by-manager/

[WhiteJC]

Man City were considering 'surprise' move to sign £25m player who has just joined Fulham
Manchester City are no strangers when it comes to signing players from fellow English clubs.

For instance, City have landed deals to sign the likes of Mateo Kovacic, Matheus Nunes and Jack Grealish among others from a wide range of top-flight clubs in recent years.

While that hasn't been the case so far in this current summer transfer window, some details have come to light about a top-flight player the Citizens apparently considered making a move for prior to his recent transfer to another Premier League club.

Journalist says Man City considered Sander Berge move prior to Fulham transfer switch
After Sander Berge completed a £25m move from Burnley to Fulham earlier this week (via BBC Sport), journalist Duncan Castles had this to say about the other possible moves he could have made in a recent episode of The Transfers Podcast.

He said: "We broke on this podcast that Sander Berge was an alternative in that position.

"I've been told that [Erik] Ten Hag was quite happy for him to come. But Berge has now gone to Fulham for an initial fee of £20m plus £5m of bonuses that completed last night.

"Interestingly, Berge was also, I'm told, a consideration as a backup to Rodri at Manchester City, which might surprise some people, but the feeling was his style of play would fit a team like Manchester City.

"He had some very significant advocates, shall we say, in Erling Haaland, his Norway teammate, and Vincent Kompany, his previous coach, who were both recommending him to Pep Guardiola.

"City, of course, have now taken Ilkay Gundogan on back from Barcelona without a fee, which is quite a transaction on their part."

Berge could have been a useful squad player for City
After spending three-and-a-half years at Sheffield United, Berge joined Burnley back in the previous summer transfer window.

Last season saw the midfielder start 34 of the 37 Premier League games he appeared in for the Clarets.

Having played more minutes than any other Burnley player last season, the 26-year-old ended the campaign with more progressive passes (164) and the highest combined total of tackles and interceptions in the squad.

With that in mind and the top-flight experience he has, Berge could have been a useful squad player and a possibly suitable backup option for Rodri, which is an area Danny Murphy recently said City need to strengthen.



https://www.manchestercity.news/man-city-were-considering-surprise-move-to-sign-25m-player-who-has-just-joined-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham vs Leicester City: Preview and Prediction
Fulham and Leicester City will be eager to get their first win of the 2024/25 Premier League season when they clash at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

The 2024/25 Premier League season moves into its second weekend, with Gameweek 2 kicking off with the game between Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United at the Amex Stadium. The action then continues with five simultaneous fixtures, including Fulham vs Leicester City.

Fulham would have hoped for a better start to the 2024/25 season after an impressive pre-season campaign. While the Cottagers gave a good account of themselves, they did not have the quality to get past Andre Onana and condemn Manchester United to a second successive defeat at Old Trafford. Marco Silva will now be eager to get off the mark this weekend.

As for Leicester City, they should have ideally finished on the wrong end of the result earlier this week against Tottenham Hotspur. However, a dogged defensive display and a wasteful showing by the North London club provided the Foxes the opportunity to take something from the game. And Jamie Vardy rose to the occasion to earn them a point on their return to the Premier League.

Fulham and Leicester City produced a riveting affair the last time they clashed in a Premier League game at Craven Cottage, with the West London club clinching a 5-3 win. The Hard Tackle takes a closer look at the encounter ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides.

Team News & Tactics
Fulham
Marco Silva does not have any new injury concerns hampering his preparations ahead of his side's latest fixture. Against Leicester City on Saturday, the Fulham manager will have a full-strength squad.

Meanwhile, the hosts have a new squad member heading into this weekend's match, with Sander Berge arriving from Burnley. Joachim Andersen will soon follow his fellow Scandinavian footballer through the door when he completes his impending move from Crystal Palace.

Bernd Leno is an automatic pick between the sticks, with Fulham lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him against Leicester City. The backline should feature Kenny Tete, Issa Diop, Calvin Bassey, and Antonee Robinson, with Diop and Bassey playing for their spots ahead of Andersen's return from Crystal Palace.

As for the midfield unit, Berge should make his Fulham bow, pairing up with Andreas Pereira in the middle of the park. Emile Smith Rowe will reprise the no. 10 role, with Alex Iwobi and Adama Traore being the two wide attackers. Finally, Rodrigo Muniz will spearhead the Fulham attack on Saturday.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Pereira, Berge; Traore, Smith Rowe, Iwobi; Muniz

Leicester City
Unlike his counterpart in the Fulham dugout, Steve Cooper has a few issues to deal with ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage. The Leicester City manager will be without four first-team players on Saturday.

Jakub Stolarczyk (foot), Conor Coady (thigh), and Patson Daka (ankle) remain on the sidelines, with the trio unlikely to return before the international break. Luke Thomas is close to returning to action but might not be fit enough to take the field on Saturday.

Mads Hermansen should take his spot between the sticks, with Leicester City lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him against Fulham on Saturday. The backline should feature James Justin, Wout Faes, Jannik Vestergaard, and Victor Kristiansen.

As for the midfield unit, there is no looking past Harry Winks and Wilfred Ndidi in the double pivot in the middle of the park. Facundo Buonanotte should reprise the no. 10 role, with Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and former Fulham attacker Bobby Decordova-Reid being the two wide attackers. Finally, Jamie Vardy will likely lead the line for the away side against Fulham.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Hermansen; Justin, Faes, Vestergaard, Kristiansen; Winks, Ndidi; Abdul Fatawu, Buonanotte, Decordova-Reid; Vardy

Key Stats

    Fulham won both Premier League meetings with Leicester City, the last time the sides met in 2022/23, most recently winning three consecutive league games against the Foxes between 1966 and 1967.
    Fulham have not won their first home match in their last five Premier League campaigns (D1 L4) since a 5-0 victory over Norwich City in 2012/13.
    No side in the top four tiers of English football won more away league games than Leicester City last season (14). The Foxes emerged victorious in their first seven away EFL Championship games last term, winning the same amount in their final 16 on the road (D3 L6). However, they have won just two of their most recent 15 Premier League away games against London clubs (D3 L10), conceding at least twice in every defeat.
    Steve Cooper has lost six of his seven meetings with Fulham in all competitions, although his one victory came at Craven Cottage (1-0 in April 2022). He has faced defeat in all three Premier League games against the Cottagers by an aggregate score of 10-2.
    Andreas Pereira created more chances than any other Premier League player on Gameweek 1 (6). That is the 19th time a Fulham player has created six or more chances in a Premier League match, with the Brazilian responsible for seven of those.

Player to Watch
Jamie Vardy

The term ageing like fine wine is oft used in football, as very few players stamp their authority when they are closer to their 40th birthday than the 30th. However, Jamie Vardy falls into that category, even though his fitness issues have hampered him in the last 24 months. But he proved his credentials again with a point-saving goal against Tottenham Hotspur earlier this week.

The Englishman became Leicester City's oldest Premier League goalscorer when he netted against Tottenham on Gameweek 1. The last player aged 37+ to score in consecutive Premier League appearances was Cristiano Ronaldo (4 in April/May 2022). He will aim to equal Ronaldo's record this weekend.

Prediction
Fulham 2-2 Leicester City

Fulham might have come away with nothing after the game against Manchester United last week, but they showed some promising signs. While the Cottagers can improve defensively, they have a burst of creativity, especially after Emile Smith Rowe's arrival, which has taken some of the creative burden off Andreas Pereira.

As for Leicester City, they were dogged in the defensive phases but left a lot of holes for Tottenham to exploit on Monday. Fulham should take advantage should those issues crop up again. However, with the West London outfit also showing vulnerabilities at the back, Leicester City should be in contention. In the end, there might not be much to separate the two sides, with The Hard Tackle predicting a 2-2 draw.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2024/08/23/fulham-vs-leicester-city-preview-and-prediction/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham vs Leicester: Premier League Preview, Gameweek 2, 2024
Craven Cottage will host the Foxes' first away day of the season and their first time on the road in the Premier League in over 450 days, as they face Fulham on Saturday.

After Monday night's draw against Tottenham, Leicester manager Steve Cooper will be looking to build on a very positive second-half display; which saw his side come from a goal down to earn a very respectable point against a Spurs side with hopes of a top-four finish.

Unlike Leicester, Fulham were on the wrong end of the result against Man United in their season opener, despite performing well and creating multiple chances throughout the game.

Even though they did lose their opening fixture, the Cottagers have many things to look forward to in the season ahead, after having a very successful transfer window bringing in many useful players and will be eagerly looking to get off the mark this weekend.

The two sides have had many interesting encounters in the past, the most recent being when they faced each other at Craven Cottage in May 2023. Leicester came out on the wrong side of a 5-3 thumping, which deflated their confidence towards the end of the season and was part of the downfall which eventually ended with Leicester's relegation from the Premier League.

Although the Foxes have a completely different squad now than they did when the sides last met, they will still be seeking revenge for the embarrassment that Fulham caused on that day and will hope for a positive result for Steve Cooper to build on.

    Team News

Considering Leicester's poor run of form towards the latter stages of pre-season and clear lack of attacking threat, the Foxes faithful would have been delighted to see Jamie Vardy back in the starting eleven linking up exquisitely with winger Abdul Fatawu.

Steve Cooper will be desperately hoping Vardy can maintain his fitness as other options up front are scarce with Patson Daka recently obtaining a serious ankle injury.

Fulham Manager Marco Silva has been working hard to fill the big hole in his squad after midfield powerhouse Joao Palhinha departed for Bayern Munich in July. In the past few days, it has been announced that Fulham have been able to complete the signing of defensive midfielder Sander Berge from Burnley, who will try and fill the void left by Palhinha.

Fulham have also signed Ryan Sessegnon on a free transfer, Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace, and tricky attacking midfielder Emile Smith-Rowe from Arsenal.

    Likely Lineups

Fulham

Leno; Tete, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Pereira, Berge; Traore, Smith Rowe, Iwobi; Muniz
Leicester

Hermansen, Justin, Faes, Vestergaard, Kristiansen; Winks, Skipp; Fatawu, Buonanotte, Mavididi; Vardy

    Key players

Fulham - Emile Smith Rowe
After recently joining Fulham for a club-record fee of £34 million from Arsenal, Smith Rowe will be desperate to get off to a positive start playing for the Cottagers.

When he made his Premier League debut in 2019 at the age of 19, he was destined to become the next big thing at Arsenal. Despite making an immense start to his career, scoring 10 goals in the 2021/22 campaign, since then he has struggled with injuries and breaking back into the starting eleven.

So, he will be hoping that he can maintain his role in the Fulham starting eleven to be able to showcase his talent and prove he can be one of the best players in the league.

Leicester City - Facundo Buonanotte
Despite only playing his first game for the club this week, Facundo Buonanotte is well on his way to becoming a fan favourite at the King Power Stadium. 

His trickery, decision-making, technical ability and hard work off the ball, were just a few of the reasons why the Argentine stood out in Leicester's match against Tottenham on Monday night.

Unfortunately for the Foxes, the 19-year-old is only on a one-year loan deal with Leicester from Brighton; however, if he can continue his good form throughout the season, he could have a big say in Leicester's survival hopes. 

    Match details

Where is the game being played?

The match is being played at Craven Cottage - home of Fulham since 1896.

What time is kick-off?

The match kicks off at 15:00 BST on Saturday 24th August 2024.

How can I watch?

The match is not on live TV within the UK, however, Match of the Day will show highlights at 22:20 BST, on the BBC.



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2024/08/22/premier-league/1193537-fulham-vs-leicester-premier-league-preview-gameweek-2-2024.html

[WhiteJC]

Before The Whistle: Fulham v Leicester City

Back to the Cottage!

It's the Foxes up first at home for 2024/25, and the Whites will be buoyed by the signing of midfielder Sander Berge this week. The arrival of the Norwegian puts paid to any chase for Manchester United's Scott McTominay, but not necessarily for the enigmatic Brazilian Andre (does he even exist or are we all imagining him?)

You'd expect Berge to be in the squad tomorrow, having appeared for Burnley during preseason. One man who won't be in the squad is Joachim Andersen. Despite both Marco Silva and Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner admitting the deal is all but done, any contract had to be signed before midday on Friday for the Danish centre-back to appear tomorrow. We continue to wait on that front and it'll be Issa Diop and Calvin Bassey tasked with muzzling the evergreen Jamie Vardy.

Much was made about the complexion of our midfield against Manchester United last week. Emile Smith Rowe, while capable, pulled up no trees, while Andreas Pereira's stats continued to look good from a deeper position, despite that not necessarily translating to the eye test (probably due to his game-defining mistake). Despite all this, expect it to remain the same on Saturday.

Kenny Tete's shift at Old Trafford surely means he retains the right-back spot, and ahead of him Adama Traore must remain on the wing. That side looks the most likely to cause problems against Leciester's left flank pairing of Victor Kristiansen and our old friend, Bobby De Cordova-Reid.

Saturday represents a huge opportunity to get our first points of the season on the board. I've no reason to believe we won't. Let's 'ave it! You Whites.

ℹ️ MATCH DETAILS

Kick-Off: Saturday, 3.00PM
Stadium: Craven Cottage
Competition: Premier League
TV Channel (UK): None

⚖️ MATCH PROBABILITY

Fulham: 51.5%
Draw: 24.4%
Leicester: 24.1%

🥊 MOST RECENT MATCHES

May 23: Fulham 5-3 Leicester
Jan 23: Leicester 0-1 Fulham
Feb 21: Fulham 0-2 Leicester
Mar 23: Leicester 1-2 Fulham



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-08-23-before-the-whistle-fulham-v-leicester-city-2/

[WhiteJC]

Silva: Fulham will definitely sign forward
Marco Silva insists Fulham will definitely sign a forward before the transfer window closes.

Whites boss Silva is particularly keen to bring in attacking reinforcements following departures of Willian and Bobby De Cordova-Reid.

"We are going to sign a forward player, for sure," Silva said.

"You all know that we have lost two wingers and we haven't signed any players for that position. We are going to sign a forward player."

Silva was speaking as Fulham were finalising the signing of defender Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace.

The Danish centre-back, 28, spent the 2020-21 campaign on loan at Fulham from Lyon.

He was a standout performer during his time at the club but relegation from the Premier League scuppered any chance of signing him on a permanent deal.

He joined Palace that summer and has made 111 appearances for the Eagles.

Fulham recently signed centre-back Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal but have been looking to further strengthen in that position following the departures of Tosin Adarabioyo and Tim Ream.

"I think he's a great signing and a player who is loved by this club," said Silva.

"I am 100% sure he is going to bring something important for us. He is going to be a good tool for us this season and in the seasons ahead."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/silva-fulham-will-definitely-sign-forward

[WhiteJC]

Fulham sign Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace
Danish defender returns to Craven Cottage after loan spell earlier in career

Fulham have announced the signing of Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace.

The Danish centre-back returns to Craven Cottage where he spent the 2020-21 season on loan, with a hefty pay rise awarded as part of his move across the capital.

Andersen's signing comes after Fulham lost defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Tim Ream on free transfers earlier in the window. He is the second central defender to join the west Londoners following the signing of Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal, with an announcement expected later on Friday.

Speaking ahead of Fulham's Premier League clash with Leicester, Silva said: "It's very close, I must say. It's difficult for me to talk about it as it's not official yet but it's very close and things have happened.

"It's a great signing for us and a player who has been loved by this club for a long time. He wasn't with me but I know he'll bring something important for us - maturity and leadership.

"He's an important one and hopefully everything will be official this afternoon as all of us will be delighted with the signing."

Palace chairman Steve Parish said: "Joachim has been immense for the club over his three years at Palace, playing a part in some of our most memorable recent results. He leaves with the utmost respect of everyone here, and we wish him well for the future."

The Cottagers replaced Joao Palhinha with Norwegian midfielder Sander Berge and Silva talked up the former Burnley player and what he will bring to his side.

"Sander is one of our players who can play as a six like Harrison Reed and Sasa Lukic," he added. "Sander has his quality and value, he's going to be a very good player for Fulham, I have no doubt about that.

"We were looking for a certain profile and we found it. He's going to give us something important in certain aspects of the game. On the ball, off the ball, set-pieces, we have a good size of players in the squad (height). He's a package."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-transfer-news-andersen-crystal-palace-b1178172.html

[WhiteJC]

Leicester City predicted line-up v Fulham with Oliver Skipp conundrum among three big decisions
A closer look at the team that Steve Cooper could pick for Leicester City's first away game of the new Premier League season, with calls needed in midfield, at full-back, and on the wing

New signing Oliver Skipp is at the heart of one of the three big decisions Steve Cooper has to make when he picks his Leicester City team to face Fulham.

The £20m midfielder is available to make his debut when City travel to Craven Cottage on Saturday (3pm kick-off) for the club's first away game of the campaign. If he's going to be included in the starting line-up, it looks like there are two potential spots for him.

Wilfred Ndidi is perhaps most at risk of losing his place, with Skipp potentially partnered with former Tottenham team-mate Harry Winks at the base of the midfield. Skipp is perhaps better at retaining possession than Ndidi, but while he is able to run hard and put himself about, he perhaps can't match the Nigerian for physical, off-the-ball work. It makes for an intriguing call for Cooper.

There is the possibility that Skipp could also come in for Facundo Buonanotte, with Cooper perhaps creating a flat midfield three for the first away game. However, the manager has also spoken of ensuring City play with bravery and intent, and dropping the attacking midfielder would not align with that motto. Plus, the Argentinian made an impressive debut on Monday and perhaps deserves to start again.

The other big calls are at full-back and on the wing. Ricardo Pereira and Stephy Mavididi were the most high-profile names on City's bench on Monday and so are the players pushing hardest for a start.

Mavididi came on up front when Jamie Vardy was substituted late on, and it may be that the winger is kept in reserve in order to be the number nine's back-up again. But he did well when he was introduced, and will vie with Bobby De Cordova-Reid for a spot on the left wing.

The Jamaican debutant had a difficult first half against Spurs, but did improve in the second period. Plus, he's more of a natural at drifting inside, which is part of the job for one of Cooper's wingers.

If Ricardo is selected, he would play at right-back, but that does not mean that James Justin would definitely be dropped, with the England international able to play on the left too, where Victor Kristiansen made his first City appearance for more than a year. Ricardo is the most technical of the trio, but for now, Cooper may prefer the better physical attributes the other two have.

Jannik Vestergaard and Wout Faes did a good job at centre-back and so are likely to keep their spots, delaying Caleb Okoli's debut, while Vardy is fit to play again up front. Barring a late injury, Mads Hermansen, Winks, and Abdul Fatawu will keep their places in the team.

Predicted City line-up (4-2-3-1): Hermansen; Justin, Vestergaard, Faes, Kristiansen; Ndidi, Winks; Fatawu, Buonanotte, De Cordova-Reid; Vardy. Subs from: Ward, Iversen, Ricardo, Thomas, Okoli, Nelson, Choudhury, Soumare, Skipp, McAteer, Mavididi, Marcal, Alves, Golding, Cannon.



https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/leicester-city-predicted-line-up-9506583

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Pre-Leicester Press Conference
Marco Silva wants to see Fulham replicate last season's strong home form in the 2024/25 campaign.

We play at Craven Cottage for the first time this season on Saturday, with newly-promoted Leicester City visiting SW6. We're also looking to pick up our first points of the Premier League campaign, as we fell to a late 1-0 loss against Manchester United at Old Trafford last Friday.

Despite the defeat, Silva believes there are lots of positives his side can take from the performance that we can build on in this weekend's meeting with the Foxes.

"The feeling after [the Man United match] was a bit strange because we deserved to take more from the game," he said in his pre-match press conference.

"It was a very open game in the second half and it could have gone one way or the other. For our first game, having lost so many players from last season, it was very, very good.

"I expected [a good performance] as our pre-season was top and our spirit is very good - the dressing room is getting into the shape that we want. Our first 25 minutes at Old Trafford was top level, but of course we have to be more consistent throughout the game. To take a result is the most important thing, but we still took lots of positives from the game and we want to build on the positives and get a good result."

Our strong home form was a major factor behind our success last season, taking 29 points from our 19 Premier League games at Craven Cottage, the 10th best home record in the division - and it's the type of form that Silva is hoping we can continue into the new campaign.

"The first home game, we are looking forward to it because it's a special feeling for all of us to play at Craven Cottage. We have been really successful there for the last three seasons and we want to make it a tough place for teams to come to again.

"Our fans are always behind us and hopefully they can enjoy our football.

"We want to start well at home, but Leicester come off the back of a good result [1-1 draw] against Tottenham. Like always, it's going to be a tough Premier League game and we want to start on the front foot, do our best to win the game and get the points."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/august/23/pre-leicester-press-conference/

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Andersen's Fulham Return

The Club is delighted to announce the signing of Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace for an undisclosed fee.

A fan favourite from his loan spell at Fulham in 2020/21, Andersen is now back on a permanent deal, agreeing a contract until the summer of 2029, with a Club option to extend by a further year.

Speaking to FFCtv, Andersen said: "It's really nice to be here. Feels a little bit like coming home, so it's a good feeling.

"Of course, I know the Club, I know how Fulham are playing, I know many players, I know some staff, so I didn't need anyone to convince me because I knew a lot of things already.

"I had some good talks with the Manager. I know the playing style he likes to play, so it was just a decision I needed to make myself, with my wife and family, and see what's the best for me, and I think this is a good step for my career."

Andersen will wear the 5 shirt for the Whites, the same number he adopted during his previous spell at the Club.

Tony Khan added: "I'm thrilled to welcome Joachim Andersen back to Fulham, but this time as a permanent move! Joachim is a formidable and experienced defender, he proved to be a steady leader for us during his previous loan, and I know that he's excited to join us again!

"Come on Fulham!"

He made his Eredivisie debut for Twente as an 18-year-old substitute in March 2015, and marked his first start with a goal two weeks later in a 2-2 draw away at Groningen.

Andersen was a regular for the Enschede side over the subsequent two seasons, and had amassed 49 appearances – and four goals – by the time he joined Sampdoria in the summer of 2017.

After helping his new club to a top half Serie A finish in his maiden campaign in Italy, Andersen established himself as one of the best young defenders in the division the following year, playing 32 times as the club finished ninth.

That form prompted Lyon to make him their record signing, agreeing a deal worth up to €30m to bring him to France.

His first season was an eventful one, with Lyon reaching the Semi-Finals of both the Champions League and the French Cup, with Andersen featuring 29 times across all competitions, often in the same backline as Kenny Tete.

A loan spell at Craven Cottage followed, and while it was a frustrating campaign for the Club, Andersen excelled at the heart of the defence.

Despite playing the majority of the campaign in empty stadia due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Andersen was taken to the hearts of the Fulham faithful with his committed displays and quality on the ball.

His leadership abilities were clearly evident, too, with the defender captaining the side in 17 Premier League matches – something of a rarity for a loanee – while he also came a narrow second in the Club's Player of the Season vote.

Despite Fulham's relegation, Andersen had proven his top flight credentials, and duly made a permanent switch from Lyon to Palace.

The Eagles continually improved with Andersen in their backline, finishing 12th, 11th, and then 10th in his three seasons in South-East London, during which time he registered nine goal involvements (3G, 6A) in 113 outings.

Having represented Denmark at every age group, Andersen was handed his senior debut in October 2019 and has now won 36 caps, appearing at Euro 2020 – where he helped his nation reach the Semi-Finals – World Cup 2022 and Euro 2024.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/august/23/andersens-fulham-return/

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Premier League Soccer: Livestream Fulham vs. Leicester City From Anywhere
Both sides go in search of their first win of the new EPL campaign at Craven Cottage.

Newly promoted Leicester head to Fulham on Saturday in the English Premier League, as they look to build on their battling draw with Spurs earlier in the week.

Leicester managed to snatch a point at home against top-four hopefuls Tottenham on Monday, with 37-year-old forward Jamie Vardy rolling back the years to earn the Foxes a vital early point with a second-half equalizer.

The hosts, meanwhile, played well at Manchester United last Friday, but came away from Old Trafford empty-handed after going down to a late strike from Joshua Zirkzee. Marco Silva's team were left to rue a number of missed chances earlier in the game.

Fulham host Leicester City at Craven Cottage in west London on Saturday, Aug. 24. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. BST local time, making it a 10 a.m. ET or 7 a.m. PT start in the US and Canada and a 12 a.m. AEST kickoff in the early hours of Sunday in Australia.

Below, we'll outline the best live TV streaming services to use to watch game as it happens wherever you are in the world.

How to watch Fulham vs. Leicester City in the US without cable
Saturday's Fulham vs. Leicester City match is streaming on Peacock. You'll need a Peacock Premium or Premium Plus account to catch the game live.

How to watch the Premier League 2024/25 season from anywhere with a VPN
If you find yourself unable to view EPL matches locally, you may need a different way to watch the games -- that's where using a VPN can come in handy. A VPN is also the best way to stop your ISP from throttling your speeds on game day by encrypting your traffic, and it's also a great idea if you're traveling and find yourself connected to a Wi-Fi network, and you want to add an extra layer of privacy for your devices and logins.

With a VPN, you're able to virtually change your location on your phone, tablet or laptop to get access to the game. Most VPNs, like our Editors' Choice, ExpressVPN, make it really easy to do this.

Using a VPN to watch or stream sports is legal in any country where VPNs are legal, including the US, UK and Canada, as long as you have a legitimate subscription to the service you're streaming. You should be sure your VPN is set up correctly to prevent leaks: Even where VPNs are legal, the streaming service may terminate the account of anyone it deems to be circumventing correctly applied blackout restrictions.

Can I livestream Fulham vs. Leicester City in the UK?
No broadcaster has the rights to show this game live in the UK, due to the traditional Saturday 3 p.m. kickoff blackout, which prohibits matches being shown in the region at that time in order to protect attendances throughout the English football pyramid.

That also means that if you're in the UK traveling for pleasure or for work, you're unlikely to be able to watch the game like you normally would at home, thanks to geo-blocking.

There's one option to get around this, however. By using a VPN, as explained above, you can set your location to a country where the match is being broadcast and go from there.

Livestream Fulham vs. Leicester City in Canada
If you want to stream this EPL game live in Canada, you'll need to subscribe to Fubo Canada. The service has exclusive rights to every Premier League fixture once again this season.

Livestream Fulham vs. Leicester City in Australia
Football fans Down Under can watch EPL matches live on streaming service Optus Sport, which is showing every single Premier League fixture of the 2024/25 season live in Australia.

Quick tips for streaming the Premier League using a VPN
    With four variables at play -- your ISP, browser, video streaming provider and VPN -- your experience and success when streaming EPL matches may vary.
    If you don't see your desired location as a default option for ExpressVPN, try using the "search for city or country" option.
    If you're having trouble getting the game after you've turned on your VPN and set it to the correct viewing area, there are two things you can try for a quick fix. First, log into your streaming service subscription account and make sure the address registered for the account is an address in the correct viewing area. If not, you may need to change the physical address on file with your account. Second, some smart TVs -- like Roku -- don't have VPN apps you can install directly on the device itself. Instead, you'll have to install the VPN on your router or the mobile hotspot you're using (like your phone) so that any device on its Wi-Fi network now appears in the correct viewing location.
    All of the VPN providers we recommend have helpful instructions on their main site for quickly installing the VPN on your router. In some cases with smart TV services, after you install a cable network's sports app, you'll be asked to verify a numeric code or click a link sent to your email address on file for your smart TV. This is where having a VPN on your router will also help, since both devices will appear to be in the correct location.
    And remember, browsers can often give away a location despite using a VPN, so be sure you're using a privacy-first browser to log into your services. We normally recommend Brave.



https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/check-if-your-social-security-number-is-part-of-the-national-public-data-breach/

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Leicester Matchday Preview
🆚 Leicester City
🏟 Craven Cottage
🏆 Premier League
🗓 Saturday 24th August
⏰ 3pm (BST)
#️⃣ FULLEI

The opposition

It's been a summer of transition at the King Power Stadium, with the likes of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Kelechi Iheanacho, Dennis Praet and Marc Albrighton all moving onto pastures new. They have added plenty of Premier League experience, though, in Oliver Skipp, Facundo Buonanotte and Bobby De Cordova-Reid, who will receive a fantastic ovation from the home fans.

Leicester fans could have been forgiven for fearing the worst at half-time of their season opener against Tottenham Hotspur on Monday. But after having struggled to get going against a dominant Spurs side, they were much improved after the break, equalising through Jamie Vardy who then almost won it for the Foxes.

Team news

🤍 Marco Silva has no fresh injury concerns, but has confirmed that new signing Sander Berge will not start against Leicester.

🦊 Conor Coady and Patson Daka will miss the trip to London. Skipp will be pushing for a debut following his move from Spurs on Monday.

Tickets

Tickets are still available to purchase on general sale, priced from just £35 for adults and £24 for juniors.

Kits

Both teams will be wearing their home outfield strips for this game, but Fulham's goalkeeper will be in the away kit to avoid a clash.

Coverage

Worldwide FFCtv subscribers can listen to commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid. Stateside fans can watch on Peacock.

Weather

🌧 There is a chance of rain throughout the day in SW6, though it will remain fairly mild, around 19 degrees at kick-off.

Digital Tickets & Arrive Early

Fans are reminded to have their digital tickets downloaded in advance of arriving at the ground and to arrive early, where £1 beer will be available until 2pm!

Bag policy

Fans are reminded that this season there will be a £5 charge (which goes to Fulham FC Foundation) for any bags deposited at our left luggage facility on Greswell Street.

Matchday programme

Timothy Castagne spoke exclusively to the matchday programme about his first season at the Club, the current feelgood factor, targeting a top 10 finish and facing his former club.

In the bumper 100-page edition, Head Coach Marco Silva sets out his plans to build on the excellent progress of the last three years and Chairman Shahid Khan shares his thoughts on the occasion of another season of Premier League football at Craven Cottage.

In the first of a regular series, we catch up with Fulham legend Barry Hayles, and round-up the best social media messages from fans of London's Original Football Club.

Priced at £4, you can pick up a copy of the programme on the day or online.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/august/23/leicester-matchday-preview/

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Fulham confirm signing of Andersen from Palace
Fulham have completed the signing of Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace.

The Whites initially offered £20m for the Denmark centre-back, who spent the 2020-21 campaign on loan at Fulham from Lyon.

That bid was rejected but negotiations continued and a deal was eventually agreed for him to return to Craven Cottage for closer to £30m.

He has signed a five-year contract with the option of an additional year.

Andersen, 28, was a standout performer during his time at the club but relegation from the Premier League scuppered any chance of signing him on a permanent deal.

He joined Palace that summer and has made 111 appearances for the Eagles.

Fulham recently signed centre-back Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal but have been looking to further strengthen in that position following the departures of Tosin Adarabioyo and Tim Ream.

Speaking on Friday afternoon as the signing was about to be formally completed, Fulham boss Marco Silva said: "I think he's a great signing and a player who is loved by this club.

"I am 100% sure he is going to bring something important for us. He is going to be a good tool for us this season and in the seasons ahead."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-andersen-signing-complete

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Fulham sign Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen
Fulham have completed the signing of centre-back Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace for a fee in the region of £30 million.

 The 28-year-old made 113 appearances for the Eagles in three campaigns with the club.

Last season, Andersen was pivotal as Crystal Palace recorded their joint-highest Premier League finish, starting all 38 matches.

Andersen, who joined Palace for £18m from Lyon in 2021, has signed a five-year deal in West London with an option for a further year.   

 Craven Cottage is familiar territory for the Denmark international, who spent the 2020/21 season on loan with Fulham.

Crystal Palace chairman and co-owner Steve Parish said: "Joachim has been immense for the club over his three years at Palace, playing a part in some of our most memorable recent results.

"He leaves with the utmost respect of everyone here, and we wish him well for the future."

The Inside Scoop
 Andersen's exit is one of mixed emotions. Crystal Palace have lost their anchor in defence to a mid-table rival. It is certainly one that will disappoint and maybe even frustrate supporters.

However, it is the right move for business. Andersen's value will only depreciate - he is 28, and departed with just two years left on his deal.

For Palace, to bank the profit and reinvest in a younger asset, once again, proves the success of acquiring value-appreciating talent.

Despite losing such a prominent part of the spine, Andersen's exit allows Oliver Glasner to add a centre-half better suited to his system, with the Dane capable of being erratic.

As seen against Brentford on Sunday, Palace lack pace in defence. If the club can secure a faster centre-half, namely Maxence Lacroix, then the backline will be in a stronger position.

Glasner gave the green light to Andersen's departure, so long as he is replaced with a quicker defender.



https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/sport/24539298.fulham-sign-crystal-palace-defender-joachim-andersen/

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Joachim Andersen transfer: Fulham complete £30m move for Crystal Palace defender
Fulham complete £30m deal to sign Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace; the 28-year-old spent the 2020/21 season on loan at Craven Cottage; Fulham saw two bids rejected for the centre-back previously; Fulham will pay an initial £25m plus £5m in performance-related add-ons

Fulham have completed a £30m deal to sign defender Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace.

Marco Silva's side had previously seen two bids rejected by Palace, who were seeking a fee in the region of £40m.

Fulham will pay an initial £25m plus £5m in performance-related add-ons for Andersen with the centre-back penning a five-year deal with a one-year option.

The 28-year-old played the full game against Brentford in Palace's first fixture of the season, which ended in a 2-1 loss to Thomas Frank's side, and previously spent the 2020/21 season on loan at Craven Cottage from Lyon.

Oliver Glasner and his recruitment staff have been actively searching for a replacement, as the Selhurst Park club also prepare for the possible departure of Marc Guehi to Newcastle.

An exit for Andersen will not impact Newcastle's move for Guehi, as the possibility of Palace losing both centre-backs at the start of the 2024/25 season gathers pace.

Fulham complete £25m Berge deal
Fulham have also completed a deal to sign midfielder Sander Berge from Burnley for £25m.

Manchester United had also been linked with a move for the Norway international and had been keeping contact with Burnley regarding a deal.

Fulham saw an approach for United's Scott McTominay fall through and then advanced in their efforts to sign Berge as an alternative.

The Cottagers will pay £20m up front for the player and £5m in add-ons, which is a similar offer to the one United received for McTominay.

Berge has put pen to paper on a five-year deal and has the option to extend his stay in west London for an additional 12 months. He will wear the No 16 shirt.




https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11661/13201092/joachim-andersen-transfer-fulham-complete-30m-move-for-crystal-palace-defender

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Crystal Palace defender completes Fulham switch
Fulham have confirmed the signing of Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen.

The west Londoners have confirmed that the 28-year-old has been handed an initial five-year deal at Craven Cottage, with a club option to take it to six years.

Andersen joined Palace in the summer of 2021 and made 113 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring three goals and registering six assists.

He enjoyed a successful loan spell with Fulham in the 2020-21 season.

Chairman Steve Parish said: "Joachim has been immense for the club over his three years at Palace, playing a part in some of our most memorable recent results.

"He leaves with the utmost respect of everyone here, and we wish him well for the future."

Speaking to FFCtv, Andersen said: "It's really nice to be here. Feels a little bit like coming home, so it's a good feeling.

"Of course, I know the club, I know how Fulham are playing, I know many players, I know some staff, so I didn't need anyone to convince me because I knew a lot of things already.

"I had some good talks with the manager. I know the playing style he likes to play, so it was just a decision I needed to make myself, with my wife and family, and see what's the best for me, and I think this is a good step for my career."



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/crystal-palace-defender-completes-fulham-switch/