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

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'Didn't need to' - Joachim Andersen issues honest verdict on Crystal Palace exit as £30m Fulham move confirmed
Crystal Palace have lost a starting defender to London rivals Fulham.

Crystal Palace star Joachim Andersen has officially joined Fulham after weeks of speculation surrounding his future. Andersen, who spent time on loan at Craven Cottage during his Lyon days, returns to the Cottagers on a deal believed to be worth around £30million.

Palace will were said to be looking for as much as £40million, but they will still double the £15million they spent to sign the Dane from Lyon three years ago. Since then, the 28-year-old has become a key part of the back-line at Selhurst Park, and the Eagles will be doubly disappointed to lose him to a London rival.

As for Andersen, he is pleased to return 'home' after putting pen-to-paper with Fulham, who have shown real ambition in this summer transfer window. 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."

Fulham owner 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!"

Palace are turning to Wolfsburg's Maxence Lacroix to replace Andersen, with a fee of around £14million being mentioned, although early efforts have been rejected. The Eagles may also have to replace another centre-back in Marc Guehi this summer, but they have managed to keep Newcastle United at bay so far.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/crystal-palace/didnt-need-to-joachim-andersen-issues-honest-verdict-on-crystal-palace-exit-as-ps30m-fulham-move-confirmed-4755113

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Fulham sign Palace defender Andersen
Fulham have signed centre-back Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace for about £30m.

The Cottagers pursued the 28-year-old throughout the summer and had an initial bid rejected as Palace sought a fee closer to £40m.

The Denmark international has joined Fulham - who he played for on loan in 2020-21 - on a five-year deal, with an option to extend for a further year.

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

"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."

During his loan spell with the Cottagers, Andersen made 31 Premier League appearances, scoring one goal.

Andersen featured 112 times for Palace after joining from Lyon in the summer of 2021.

He played every minute of Denmark's Euro 2024 campaign, which ended in a last-16 defeat by hosts Germany.

Andersen's Palace centre-back partner Marc Guehi has attracted interest from Newcastle, but Eagles chairman Steve Parish said it was "unlikely" both players would leave this summer.

"Marc [Guehi] will lead the team as captain [against West Ham on Saturday]," Palace boss Oliver Glasner said.

"I expect everyone to be a Crystal Palace player until someone tells me different."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cj4xyz4ly1eo

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Silva: 'We'll be on the front foot'
Marco Silva is targeting a strong start at home as Fulham prepare to take on Leicester City at Craven Cottage tomorrow.

The Portuguese head coach felt there were plenty of positives from last Friday's narrow defeat at Manchester United – despite the frustration of failing to take a number of good opportunities at Old Trafford. Silva told his pre-match press conference:

The feeling after [the game against Manchester United] was a bit strange because we deserved to take more from the game. 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."

Silva wants his side to replicate last season's home form – where the Whites took 29 points from nineteen games – but knows that the Whites will be in for a tough test against the newly-promoted Foxes.

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 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://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/silva-well-be-on-the-front-foot/

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Andersen rejoins Fulham
Joachim Andersen has returned to Craven Cottage this afternoon – signing for Fulham for the second time in a £30m deal from Crystal Palace.

The Danish defender, who will once again wear the number five shirt, has put pen to paper on a five-year contract with Fulham holding an option to extend that deal by a further year. The 28 year-old, who made 31 appearances on loan as Fulham were relegated from the Premier League in 2020/21, spent the last three years at Selhurst Park – playing 113 games for Palace, scoring three goals.

Andersen told FFCTV:

"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://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/andersen-rejoins-fulham/

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Fulham will sign another forward, says Silva
Marco Silva says that Fulham will sign another forward before the end of the transfer window.

The Portuguese head coach told his pre-match press conference this afternoon that he wants to replace the goal threat provided by Willian and Bobby De Cordova-Reid, who left the club earlier this summer.

Silva said:

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



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/fulham-will-sign-another-forward-says-silva/

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Crystal Palace sells Joachim Andersen to Fulham and Jordan Ayew to Leicester
LONDON (AP) - Denmark defender Joachim Andersen joined Fulham for a second spell after leaving Premier League rival Crystal Palace on Friday.

The center back was on loan at Fulham in the 2020-21 season and established himself as a fans' favorite.

Andersen has now moved to Craven Cottage on a permanent basis, on a five-year deal for a reported fee of 30 million pounds ($40 million).

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

Andersen´s signing comes after Fulham lost defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Tim Ream on free transfers earlier in this transfer window. He is the second central defender to join the club, after Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal.

It is a blow to Palace, which is also battling to keep England center half Marc Guehi at the club amid interest from Newcastle.

Palace also sold Ghana forward Jordan Ayew to promoted Leicester on a two-year deal.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13773839/Joachim-Andersen-leaves-Crystal-Palace-second-spell-Premier-League-rival-Fulham.html

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"A good step for my career" - Joachim Andersen explains £30m Crystal Palace exit
Fulham have completed the signing of defender Joachim Andersen from fellow Premier League club Crystal Palace.

The Denmark international has put pen to paper on a five-year deal until 2029 and joins the Cottagers for an undisclosed fee, believed to be worth around £30m.

Andersen returns to Craven Cottage having previously spent the 2020-21 campaign on loan at the club from Lyon.

The 28-year-old moved to Crystal Palace on a permanent deal the following summer and made 113 appearances for the Eagles across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing six assists.

Palace supporters were hoping to see Andersen, who helped the club secure a 10th-placed finish in the Premier League last season, feature regularly under Oliver Glasner in his first full season in charge of the club.

Andersen leaves Palace "with the utmost respect"
However, Andersen has opted to move across London to re-join Fulham and become Marco Silva's fifth summer signing after Emile Smith Rowe, Sander Berge, Ryan Sessegnon and Jorge Cuenca.

Reacting to the Dane's departure from Crystal 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."

Commenting on his return to Fulham, Andersen told the club's official website: "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."

Khan: 'Andersen is a formidable and experienced defender'
Fulham vice-chairman 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!"

Andersen, who will wear the No.5 shirt at Fulham, is set to compete with fellow centre-backs Cuenca, Issa Diop and Calvin Bassey for regular starts in Silva's side.

It remains to be seen whether Andersen will be available to make his second debut for the Cottagers in Saturday's Premier League clash at home against Leicester City.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/crystal-palace/transfer-talk/news/crystal-palace-confirm-gbp30m-exit-of-immense-player-to-premier-league-rival_551094.html?newsnow

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Andersen: 'Fulham's a perfect fit'
Joachim Andersen has revealed that his return to Fulham came as something of a 'surprise' but believes he will be able to help the Whites progress under Marco Silva.

The popular Danish defender completed a £30m move from Crystal Palace this afternoon and is looking forward to pulling on the Fulham shirt again – having enjoyed a season in SW6 on loan in 2020/21.

Andersen told FFCTV that Fulham felt like 'the perfect fit' for him at this time in his career:

"It came as a surprise to me as well. I heard a couple of weeks ago that Fulham was quite keen on bringing me back and it was a difficult decision. I had many, many talks with Palace and with Fulham about what to do [and] with my feeling. In the end, I had a really good feeling. I had three really, really good years at Palace, I have lot of respect for them, a lot of respect for Steve [Parrish] and Dougie [Freedman] but, in the end, I needed to think about myself, what was best for me and I feel like this is the best move.

"I had some good talks with the manager and, of course, I knew the club. I knew how Fulham were playing, I know many of the players and I know some staff. It's not because I needed to talk with the coach or anyone at the club to convince me – I knew a lot of things already. I know the playing style he likes to play. It was really just a decision I had to make, with my wife and with my family and I feel like it is a really good step for my career.

I had a fantastic year here. I loved to be here, I really love the club and I think it also means something in my decision making, that I know how much this club did for me. I enjoyed my time here and hopefully I can now get a lot more years to enjoy. It was a tough season, I thought we had a decent team, we had some really good players and played some good football but, of course, the relegation was hard. As captain of that side, I always felt a little more responsible. It was a strange season – there was no fans at all. I felt that I had quite a good relationship with them. I felt a lot of love from them, through socials and walking on the street. I can't wait to play in front of them.

"I think [Fulham's progression] has been a really good process. I think they are doing really well with the new manager. He's playing some good football, which is something that I appreciate a lot. It's something that fits my style and something that I think I can help the team with. For me, that's the most important thing when I look at a club – I need to see how they play and how I can fit and how I can help the team. I think it's a perfect fit.

I think the style suits me really, really well. I'm just happy that the manager thinks I can fit in the team and also I see myself having a good impact on the team, hopefully. I'm just looking forward to getting out there and playing. It's nice to see the boys again, it's always good to see some familiar faces and they are really good guys.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/andersen-fulhams-a-perfect-fit/

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Jay Stansfield in: 2 last gasp transfers Watford must consider before August 30th

    Watford's strong start this season highlights need for additional firepower up front, potentially signing Jay Stansfield.
    Jodi Jones' impressive assist record at Notts County makes him an ideal fit for Cleverley's wing-back system at Watford.
    Despite strong performances, Stansfield and Jones could be valuable additions for Watford's ambitious play-off chase in the Championship.

Watford have not threatened the Championship play-off positions since their relegation from the Premier League in 2022, but the Hornets have started the new season in threatening fashion.

 Tom Cleverley's men showed their character during the first game of the campaign, as they led 2-0 at Millwall only to be pegged back to 2-2 in the 88th minute courtesy of Duncan Watmore's brace, but the Herfordshire side still travelled home with all three points thanks to a 90th minute winner from Mileta Rajovic.

The Hornets have subsequently shown their class in the final third, as well as in defence, with a 5-0 victory over League Two MK Dons in the EFL Cup, followed by a 3-0 triumph over Stoke City in the Championship.

While Cleverley and co have started the season in successful fashion, Football League World looks at two players the Hornets should look to sign before the transfer window slams shut on August 30th.

Jay Stansfield
 Watford may have scored 11 goals in their opening three games of the season across all competitions, but the argument could still be made that the Vicarage Road side are still in need of some extra firepower.

Vakoun Bayo led the line for the Hornets during both of their first two Championship matches this season, but he is not the most prolific in front of goal, and scored just six goals in 39 second tier outings last campaign.

Meanwhile, fellow striker Rajovic scored 10 goals in 41 league appearances last term, which was a strong effort for his debut campaign in English football, but Cleverley may want a more dangerous striker with a potential play-off chase in mind.

Fulham's Jay Stansfield could be that man, as he scored 12 goals in the Championship for a Birmingham City side who were relegated to League One.

 Despite plying his trade for a struggling side, Stansfield was able to show his class, and he could become more of a regular on the scoresheet if he played for a stronger side such as the Hornets.

Furthermore, with Rodrigo Muniz and Raul Jimenez still among their ranks, Fulham should still be open to sending the 21-year-old out on loan to the Championship once more.

Jodi Jones
 Cleverley tends to opt for a wing-back system with his Hornets side, which could make Jodi Jones an ideal signing for the Hertfordshire outfit.

Jones is a wing-back for his current club, Notts County, and has caught the eye due to his prolific assist making exploits in the fourth tier.

Last season, the 26-year-old created 24 League Two assists, and in doing so broke the record which was jointly held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry for the most assists in a single league season in English football.

Jones' impressive performances last term saw him recently scoop the PFA League Two Player of the Year award, an accolade which epitomises his class.

Alongside his 24 assists, the Malta international also scored six goals last season, and while it may be difficult to bridge the gap between the fourth tier and the Championship, the Hornets should be keen to snap up a player who made 30 goal contributions last campaign, and also fits their system.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/jay-stansfield-jodi-jones-watford-fc-last-gasp-transfers/

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'Keeping him fresh is important' – Steve Cooper needs Jamie Vardy (37) always fit for Leicester City's survival
Leicester boss Steve Cooper insists it is integral to the success of the Foxes' season to keep star striker Jamie Vardy fit as they prepare to travel to Fulham on Saturday.

Vardy marked his return to the Premier League with a second-half equaliser in Monday night's 1-1 draw with Tottenham at the King Power Stadium to take his tally to 137 top-flight goals.

The 37-year-old suffered an injury in pre-season and was a doubt to face Tottenham, but the 2015-16 Premier League winner recovered in time to play 79 minutes of the contest and help secure a point.

Cooper admitted keeping Vardy available this season is crucial to his team.

He said: "Jamie doesn't need any special words from me about his capabilities and impact he has and the talent he has inside the box, that's something that will never leave him.

"In terms of keeping him available and keeping him fresh is important – it's important we work with him collaboratively to make sure we do what's right by him, to get him ready.

"What's good about him is he enjoys games, what it takes to get ready for games and we have to respect that – he's a game player and a match-day guy and we need to do our very best to keep him as ready as he can be for those games."

Leicester now switch their focus to their first away game of the season as they travel to Fulham on Saturday.

Fulham looked like they would take a point away from Old Trafford until new signing Joshua Zirkzee came off the bench to clinch a 1-0 win for Manchester United in the Premier League curtain raiser last Friday.

Cooper knows the dangers Fulham can pose but also believes his newly promoted team is good enough to cause problems themselves.

He added: "We need to be ready, they are a well-coached team full of players that can make a difference.

"If you don't look after yourselves and don't implement our style and our intentions whoever we play against then the game won't go as you want it to anyway.

That's where our focus is, becoming good at what we want to be and how we go about it. We respect our opponent, tough game on the weekend of course, Premier League football but if we don't go there with the ambition of 'this is how we play' then I think you give yourself a good chance of coming up short."



https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/premier-league/keeping-him-fresh-is-important-steve-cooper-needs-jamie-vardy-37-always-fit-for-leicester-citys-survival/a83625443.html

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Marco Silva says "Craven Cottage is our fortress" ahead of Leicester clash
Fulham host Leicester on Saturday for the Cottagers first home game of the new season. Head coach Marco Silva says he wants Craven Cottage to be a tough place to come for away sides.

Fulham took nine of their 13 Premier League wins at home last season, including impressive victories over the likes of Tottenham and Arsenal.

Head coach Marco Silva has spoken about the importance of that home form ahead of their clash with Leicester on Saturday afternoon.

The two teams last met in 2023, with Fulham winning 5-3.

Home form is a necessity
Fulham took nine of their 13 Premier League wins at home last season, including impressive victories over the likes of Tottenham and Arsenal.

Head coach Marco Silva has spoken about the importance of that home form ahead of their clash with Leicester on Saturday afternoon.

The two teams last met in 2023, with Fulham winning 5-3.
Home form is a necessity

Silva knows his side must continue to make Craven Cottage a tough place to come.

He said: "We are all looking forward to the first home game, we have been really successful in the past three seasons at Craven Cottage — it has been our fortress and we want it to be hard for opponents."

On the signing of Sander Berge
Fulham announced the signing of Sander Berge on Thursday, a well-received transfer following the departure of fan-favourite João Palhinha.

Silva insisted he is a good player in himself and not just a straight replacement.

He said: "The same position (as Palhinha), number six, but we don't sign players just to replace others — Sander has his own qualities and he will be good for us."

The Norwegian is unavailable for this weekend's game but will return next week.

Silva said: "He's not ready to start but next week he is available for both games."

Another incoming signing
Centre-back Joachim Andersen is all but confirmed for a return to Craven Cottage.

The Dane spent the 2020/21 season on loan at Fulham, impressing in an eventually relegated team.

Although the transfer is not quite official just yet, Silva is happy with the signing.

"It's not official, but it's very close," said Silva. "He's a great, great signing and a player that's been loved by this football club for a long time.

"I'm 100% sure he's going to bring something important for us. Let's hope it's official this afternoon."

Ryan Sessegnon back in a Fulham shirt at Craven Cottage?
Ryan Sessegon returned to his boyhood club this summer following the expiration of his contract at Tottenham Hotspur.

The 24-year-old made his debut with Fulham at the age of 16 and fans are eager to see him back in the shirt at Craven Cottage. Silva is keeping them waiting though.

He said: "You will have to wait until tomorrow to see if he is in the squad or not.

"I already have a decision in my head but you will have to wait.

"He had incredible success in a Fulham shirt years ago and was sold for a big amount of money.

"However being injury-prone he did not get to the level that he should have at Tottenham. He is working hard."



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2024/08/23/fulham/1193605-marco-silva-says-craven-cottage-is-our-fortress-ahead-of-leicester-clash.html

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Partick Thistle loan Ablade
Fulham forward Terry Ablade has joined Scottish Championship club Partick Thistle on a season-long loan, the club have confirmed this afternoon.

The Finnish forward, who has previously had EFL loan experience at AFC Wimbledon and Carlisle United, has already impressed Jags manager Kris Doolan, who told Thistle's website:

"We've been looking at adding another striker to the squad for a while now and I've always maintained that the player we bring in has to provide something different to what we already have and Terry fits that bill. He's got pace and a willingness to make testing runs that can really stretch the opposition and open up space for the rest of the team. Having only arrived last night, he was in training with us for the first time today and we were impressed with what we saw. His effort was first class and I think he'll be a real asset for us this season."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/partick-thistle-loan-ablade/

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Joachim Andersen makes Fulham return in £30million move from Crystal Palace - as Jordan Ayew departs Eagles for Leicester

    Andersen had previously been on loan at Fulham during the 2020/21 season
    The Danish central defender as signed a five-year contract at Craven Cottage

Fulham have signed Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace on a five-year deal with the option of a further year.

The centre back has completed the move across London in a deal worth around £30million.

Andersen had previously been on loan at Fulham during the 2020/21, where he had become a fan favourite.

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.'

The Danish international had made 113 appearances across all competitions for the Crystal Palace.

Crystal Palace have also announced the departure of Jordan Ayew, with the 32-year-old joining Leicester for an initial £5million.

'I'm very happy to be here and I'm proud. I want to thank the club as they fought hard to bring me here – it happened quickly and I'm so happy to be here,' Ayew told Leicester's club website.

'As a player, when you hear that the manager wants you, it just makes you want to come and work under him and to try to improve. Even though I'm 32, as a player you always want to learn and improve.

'I'm here to work hard and help the team achieve their targets.'

Ayew made 212 appearances for the Eagles across six seasons, winning the club's Player of the Season and Player's Player of the Season in the 2019/20 campaign.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-13774643/Joachim-Andersen-Fulham-Crystal-Palace-Jordan-Ayew-Leicester.html

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Fulham vs Leicester: Preview, predictions and lineups

    Fulham face newly-promoted Leicester on Saturday afternoon at Craven Cottage
    West London outfit lost their opening game of the season to Man Utd
    Foxes secured hard-fought point at home to Tottenham last Monday

Fulham play host to newly-promoted Leicester City on Saturday afternoon as both sides search for a first victory of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.

The Cottagers kicked off the new English top flight season with a trip to Manchester United but left devastated after Joshua Zirkzee's 87th-minute effort handed them a 1-0 defeat. There were encouraging signs from Marco Silva's side, who are set to be busy in the closing weeks of the transfer window.

eicester earned themselves a hard-fought point at home to Tottenham Hotspur in their first match back in the Premier League. Despite a chastening first half at the King Power Stadium, Jamie Vardy's second-half header secured the Foxes a surprise draw in Steve Cooper's first match in charge of the club.

Here is 90min's guide to Fulham's clash with Leicester this weekend.

What time does Fulham vs Leicester kick-off?
    Location: London, England
    Stadium: Craven Cottage
    Date: Saturday 24 August
    Kick-off Time: 15:00 BST / 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT
    Referee: Darren Bond
    VAR: Jarred Gillett

Fulham vs Leicester H2H Record (Last Five Games)
    Fulham: 3 wins
    Leicester: 2 wins
    Draws: 0

    Last meeting: Fulham 5-3 Leicester (8 May 2023) - Premier League

Current form (all competitions)

Fulham	Leicester
Man Utd 1-0 Fulham - 16/08/24	Leicester 1-1 Tottenham - 19/08/24
Hoffenheim 0-2 Fulham - 10/08/24	Lens 3-0 Leicester - 10/08/24
Fulham 1-2 Sevilla - 05/08/24	Augsburg 1-0 Leicester - 03/08/24
Benfica 0-1 Fulham - 02/08/24	Leicester 0-1 Palermo - 26/07/24
Fulham 6-1 Watford - 27/07/24	Shrewsbury 1-2 Leicester - 23/07/24

How to watch Fulham vs Leicester on TV and live stream

Country	Country      TV channel/live stream
United Kingdom	N/A
United States	Peacock
Canada	fuboTV Canada

Fulham team news
Fulham have no fitness concerns ahead of Saturday's clash and are likely to field a similar lineup to the one that narrowly lost at Old Trafford. That means another start for Emile Smith Rowe, who signed from Arsenal over the summer.

Sander Berge is another new recruit but he may not feature against Leicester having only just signed from Burnley. Fulham are also chasing deals for Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen and Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki.

Fulham predicted lineup vs Leicester
Fulham predicted lineup vs Leicester (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Pereira, Lukic; Traore, Smith Rowe, Iwobi; Muniz.

Leicester team news
Leicester's centre-forward injury crisis forced a half-fit Vardy to lead the line against Spurs, with the 37-year-old scoring on his return to the top flight. He is likely to spearhead the attack again with Patson Daka sidelined for several months and Tom Cannon potentially on his way out of the club.

Veteran defender Conor Coady is also missing for the next few weeks and back-up goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk is facing six months in the treatment room after undergoing an operation on his ankle.

Bobby Decordova-Reid is in line to face his former club after signing for Leicester on a free transfer this summer and Oliver Skipp could feature for his debut following a recent move from Tottenham.

Leicester predicted lineup vs Fulham
Leicester predicted lineup vs Fulham (4-2-3-1): Hermansen; Pereira, Faes, Vestergaard, Kristiansen; Winks, Ndidi; Decordova-Reid, Buonanotte, Fatawu; Vardy.

Fulham vs Leicester score prediction
Leicester showed impressive resilience against Tottenham but could have comfortably found themselves three or four goals down at half-time. It was perhaps luck more than judgement that helped them secure an important point on Cooper's debut.

Fulham could take advantage of Leicester's shaky backline this weekend, with the likes of Smith Rowe, Adama Troare and Rodrigo Muniz primed to sparkle in the Cottagers' opening home game of the Premier League season.

Prediction: Fulham 2-1 Leicester



https://www.90min.com/fulham-vs-leicester-preview-predictions-lineups-24-8-24

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Hazzetta dello Sport 2024 - Issue 2: Fulham v Leicester City
'Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in', barks Al Pacino as Michael Corleone in The Godfather Part III.

That sprung immediately to mind after Monday's night's second half performance. It ignited that dangerous emotion of hope. There is now a belief that maybe Leicester City can compete with these players and this manager in the top flight.

In a Premier League opening weekend without a redeeming game or moment, step forward Leicester City and its very own spirit animal Jamie Vardy.

Not content with scoring the equaliser, Vardy felt the need to remind the Spurs away end of their recent trophyless history and then tell Cristian Romero to excuse himself. That made sure the game was the main topic of conversation in my office on Tuesday morning. There were the shoots of what makes supporting us so good; the unruly underdog who wants to put a few noses out of joint.

In the general context of the season, Steve Cooper will do well to pause on moments such as Monday evening. The whole campaign might be in vain. Even if we have a good half of a season, the likely point deductions will act as a hammer blow. Performances full of effort and grit will win the hearts of the fans and create a pride amongst us. Plenty more of that please.

It's important to anchor that second half with the opening forty-five minutes. On another day, it's 4-0 at half time. The cold, harsh reality of that period was that we looked way off it and simply not of the required quality to keep up with Spurs. There's every chance that could also repeat itself from a so-called lesser team and the home crowd might not be so forgiving.

However, as anyone that's done anything competitive will inform you, the biggest challenge is when your performance is poor and you have to see that period off. We did that 'hanging in there' in ample amounts as the statistics of more blocks and tackles than any other team on matchday one proves. This was another exhibit of my long held belief that Leicester City FC thrives as the underdog and our role was perfectly executed on Monday evening.

There is now an excitement heading towards the game at Craven Cottage. A day out in London during the bank holiday weekend and an away end which no doubt have been drinking its way along the Thames. Quite literally in the case of the Union FS boat trip. It's with great regret that to simmer down this feel good mood, I recall the last trip to the Cottage; a grim 5-3 defeat. By half-time, we were as good as relegated. A shambles of a performance where effort seemed a bonus rather than, as Carmy says in the TV series The Bear, 'a non-negotiable'.

Our record generally is not that great at Fulham. When subtracting a behind closed doors victory where James Justin was part of a superb team goal, you must go back to 1983 for our last win there. One of the products of the good result against Spurs is that there will be some expectation, however faint. There's no denying this will be a difficult game; Fulham still boast six or seven players who would feature in a top four team.

However, the recent outgoings from the Cottagers have created a void in quality through the spine of the pitch. This was highlighted in their loss at Old Trafford where Joshua Zirkzee's tendency to come deep and spin off in his self-proclaimed '9 and a half' role caused them a real issue. The centre back pairing of Issa Diop and Calvin Bassey has its issues when it comes to tracking 'second man' runners hence the signing of Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace (and Jorge Cuenca from Villarreal).

Similarly, the big departure of Joao Palhinha in midfield has left Fulham short of middle three physicality. Their answer has been to sign Sander Berge as a tall, stronger option to support the more workmanlike efforts of Sasa Lukic. It remains to be seen if Marco Silva feels an immediate need to draft in this pair of new signings to solve these issues.

Alongside that, there will be an almighty battle on the wings that may cause Leicester to have a personnel change. Adama Traore, often fruitless in his forays up the right wing, does give Fulham the chance to recover and move forward on the transition. James Justin has competed well against him before and remains Leicester's speediest option at left-back despite the clear restrictions playing on his unfavoured side.

While Fulham's fullbacks are good, quick and can be dangerous. Antonee Robinson and Kenny Tete are excellent at getting up and down. Well, step forward Abdul Fatawu. The 'overloads' will be interesting to see who gets outnumbered.

Additionally, the arrival of Oliver Skipp for City gives a selection choice in midfield; to replace Wilf Ndidi who provides important height and physicality at set pieces or move Facundo Buonanotte who was simply excellent on Monday towards the wing. We've signed Jordan Ayew; the signing that gives Joe Kinnear Wimbledon vibes. Another to the collection of Premier League experience players who are 'good guys' at their former clubs. And he's 32 heading onto 33.

Either way, it promises to be a good day which will leave a mark on our memories. Whether positive or negative, there's a feeling that Leicester City are in transition on so many levels. This is another test of which that direction will go. Never boring.



https://www.thefosseway.net/viewpoint/leicester-city-hazzetta-dello-sport-cfgy4

[WhiteJC]

Up next: Leicester City (h)
Fulham's first home game of the season arrives with a feelgood factor fizzing around the fanbase following two crucial signings completed in the wake of last Friday's agonising defeat by Manchester United. Sander Berge, linked heavily a move to Old Trafford this summer, arrives from Burnley as a midfielder of real repute, whilst the surprise return of Joachim Andersen – which gathered pace only over the last weeks – serves as a significant boost to Marco Silva following the loss of a couple of centre backs over the course of pre-season. The Fulham head coach suggested during yesterday's press conference that a forward should arrive before the end of the transfer window and there is a real sense that the Whites' transfer business has stepped up since Shahid Khan returned to the UK.

Silva also spoke of his disappointment at the failure to gain even a point from Fulham's opening fixture at Old Trafford. In what was an open game, his side were hit by a late sucker punch having created a number of good opportunities on the counter attack. The pain of the failure of Andreas Pereira and company to make the right decision in the real third still remains but, a week on, there is at least the realisation that Silva's side once again went toe-to-toe with the champions – and, perhaps with more minutes in the legs of Emile Smith Rowe among others, the precise passing and probing at pace will alter any predictability about the Whites in attack this term.

Fulham's success on their return to the top flight over the past two seasons has largely been built on picking up points at home. Silva's style might well evolve in the absence of Joao Palhinha and Willian – both were missed in Manchester for different reasons – but you could at least see the signs of a new method during ninety largely encouraging minutes. Fulham fans might be more used to watching Pereira in the number ten role, but the Brazilian has played most of his football in the more orthodox central midfield position he filled alongside Sasa Lukic last Friday. The playmaker's link up with Smith Rowe and then Alex Iwobi and the lightning fast Adama Traore on the flanks gives Fulham's approach play a different look from last season – whilst Pereira's deeper position should help the Whites progress the ball up the pitch more easily as they try to play out from the back.

Silva revealed that Berge, a £20m signing from Burnley, is not fit enough to start against the Foxes this afternoon and, at the time of writing, it remains unclear whether Andersen's move was completed in time for him to feature. Both will undoubtedly make Fulham stronger – even if the biggest worry we have about this side is the regularity of goals that they can deliver. Much depends on the effectiveness of Rodrigo Muniz, who toiled manfully in Manchester for little reward, and perhaps that explains why Silva is seeking further forwards in the final days of the window.

Leicester, coached by the underrated Steve Cooper, will present a tough proposition at the Cottage. The Foxes fought to claim a creditable draw against Tottenham Hotspur on Monday night and the reuniting of Oliver Skipp and Harry Winks, two Tottenham academy graduates, in the engine room should give the newly-promoted side an injection of guile alongside the classy Wilfred Ndidi, who shone in their Championship success last season. Cooper will have do without the injured trio Patson Daka, Conor Coady and Jakub Stolarczyk, but Craven Cottage should give a rapturous reception to the returning Bobby De Cordova-Reid, whose role in the club's recent rise cannot be understated.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Diop, Bassey; Lukic, Pereira; Traore, Iwobi, Smith Rowe; Muniz. Subs: Benda, Castagne, Sessegnon, Cuenca, Reed, Cairney, Sessegnon, Stansfield, Jimenez.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/08/up-next-leicester-city-h-2/

[WhiteJC]

'We're Very Much A Collective' – Cooper's Call For Continued Unity
Steve Cooper outlined how the group will be sticking together as Leicester City's Premier League campaign moves towards its next juncture this weekend.

A trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham is on the agenda on Saturday afternoon (3pm BST kick-off), as the Foxes aim to build on the point picked up at home to Tottenham Hotspur – Cooper's first competitive game in charge.

A busy press conference room awaited the former England youth coach on Thursday, as he told the media what he has taken from that opening game, as well as what to expect from his side this coming outing...

'Really excited to play again'
Central midfielder Oliver Skipp has been added to the Foxes' ranks ahead of the clash with the Cottagers, while the squad remain in a buoyant but focused mood, Cooper revealed, heading into a first away fixture of the season.

"The Premier League demands everything of you and even sometimes all in one game," he commented from LCFC Training Ground. "It's always important to have the right strength in depth for what's needed from game to game.

"We have a nice balance in midfield now and it allows us to pick the right players for the right gameplan, which is what we want. I want to be in that place with every position on the pitch, but the guys are in a great place. There's a really good vibe and they're in really good spirits.

"There has been all pre-season, but especially since getting that first game out of the way with a fairly positive result. We want to be winning, of course, especially at home, but against a team talking about being at the top end of the league, there's a lot of good to be taken out of it. We're really excited about playing again."

'Silva has built a good team'
Asked what he made to Fulham's opening weekend fixture, a narrow 1-0 reverse at Manchester United, City's Manager was impressed with what he saw from the Cottagers, who could have taken the points themselves on another day, falling to defeat courtesy of a late Joshua Zirkzee goal.

"They played well," the 44-year-old mused on the west Londoners. "Marco [Silva] has obviously been there for a good few years now and has built a really good way and a good team. They are the same as us, have added players recently, and we need to be ready for that. It's a really well coached team and full of players who can make a difference.

"What we learned from the other night, more than anything else, is that if we don't do what we can do, then it ends up being irrelevant because this is the Premier League. Every game we play, we could talk about the opponent and where the strengths are and how good they are."

'A lot of confidence'
Taking on an established Premier League side, Cooper anticipates another tough encounter in the capital following on from facing Tottenham, which tested many aspects of City's credentials, but also provided a performance with much promise, particularly in the second 45.

He explained: "It was a great reminder against Spurs that if we don't look after ourselves, you're not able to look after anything else. That's really where our focus is. There always are a lot of learnings from a game but you've always got to bear in mind the context as well. With it being the first back in the Premier League, and some debuts, all of that can add to it.

"Maybe a little bit of that showed in the first half, as well as playing against a really good team and allowing them too much of the ball and too much respect. We just needed to be a lot braver in the second half. That's on all of us – we're very much going to be a collective this year. We played with some good intent and ambition in the second half.

"You've got to back yourself and believe in yourself and do what you can do in terms of strengths and that will always be the main influence on our game. A lot of confidence will be taken from that second half, but we've also got to be not narrow-minded enough to learn from the first half as well. There's been more talk about that in the game review.

"That's the process on how we get better and improve, because we really want to become a team who compete successfully week in, week out. There's been a lot to reflect on, a lot to learn from and a lot to be encouraged by."



https://www.lcfc.com/news/4092306/were-very-much-a-collective--coopers-call-for-continued-unity/featured?lang=en

[WhiteJC]

French club move for ex-Man Utd defender previously tipped for Aston Villa, Fulham, Crystal Palace moves
French side RC Lens are lining up a loan move for Luton Town defender Teden Mengi, according to reports.

Mengi left Manchester United to join Luton Town upon their promotion to the Premier League last summer and played 35 games across all competitions in 2023/24, but was unable to stop the Hatters from suffering an immediate relegation back to the Championship.

However, Mengi was one of Luton's top individual performers, ranking first among his teammates in Premier League play for interceptions (57) and clearances (136).

According to a report from Foot Mercato (via Football League World) earlier this summer, Mengi's form had attracted the attention of Fulham, Crystal Palace and Nice, although no move ever materialised.

Former Aston Villa striker Stan Collymore also told CaughtOffside back in April he rates Mengi so highly that he'd 'drive him to Villa Park tomorrow' to complete a transfer.

"I can't be the only one who's noticed that he has all of the background, the ambition to leave United at 21 to go it alone," he said in an exclusive interview.

"I've been really impressed by his performances and I'm sure he'll be on several "big clubs" radars.

"He's played for England at every age level so will have had an A+ club and international grounding. Personally, I'd drive him to Villa Park tomorrow if Unai Emery fancies it."

Lens target ex-Man Utd defender Teden Mengi
A more recent report from Foot Mercato (via Get Football News France) has revealed Lens as the latest potential suitor for Mengi.

It's claimed the Ligue 1 side are looking to secure the 22-year-old on a loan deal with the option to make the move permanent next summer.

Lens are in the market for a centre-back with Austria international Kevin Danso a reported target of Italian giants Roma.

Mengi has already appeared twice for Luton this season, playing the full 90 minutes as the Hatters lost 4-1 to Burnley and drew 0-0 against Portsmouth to open the new Championship season.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/08/24/former-man-utd-defender-teden-mengi-luton-lens-ligue-1/

[WhiteJC]

Key Hammersmith and Fulham developments in pipeline from £1.3bn 'cultural landmark' to town hall revamp
The Olympia Exhibition Centre scheme is just one of a number of major works currently ongoing in Hammersmith and Fulham

Perhaps defying its status as one of London's smallest boroughs, Hammersmith and Fulham is nonetheless a seemingly endless hive of activity. Home to sporting institutions such as Chelsea and Fulham football clubs plus world-class facilities including Imperial College's White City campus, the West London locality is rarely short on both new and developing initiatives.

Looking ahead, the borough continues to have a run of projects likely to have a profound impact on the area. From a revamped town hall to a £1 billion-plus transformation of an historic exhibition space, below are some of the schemes changing the face of Hammersmith and Fulham.

Olympia Exhibition Centre
The Olympia, which is right on the border with Kensington and Chelsea, has been a prime London venue for 130 years, hosting artists from Jimmy Hendrix to Pink Floyd as well as events such as Crufts and the Ideal Home Show.

It was bought by real estate investment firms Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance International in 2017, and is in the midst of major revamp to turn it into West London's latest 'cultural landmark'.

The plans include a range of new bars and restaurants, plus hotels, a theatre, and a 4,000-person music arena as part of the redevelopment. The council has approved a slew of licensing applications already this year, ahead of the site's planned opening in 2025.

Shepherd's Bush Market
The 110-year-old Shepherd's Bush Market is earmarked to undergo redevelopment after Hammersmith and Fulham Council approved plans last December. Applicant Yoo Capital, which owns the site and is also behind the Olympia scheme, is looking to introduce new stalls, a nine-storey commercial building, and aesthetic works such as new entrance signs. The council is also to get 40 social homes on the adjoining Old Laundry Yard as part of the scheme.

Concerns were raised by local groups including Protect Shepherd's Bush Market, in particular relating to the extent of the support promised to existing traders, and the leases they will be offered under the plans.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan was petitioned to halt the proposals ahead of them going before him earlier this year. City Hall however announced last month that it would not be calling in the plans, with Andrew Thorpe, Managing Director at Yoo Capital, saying the company is looking forward 'to continuing to work with the traders on the next part of the process towards construction'.

Civic Campus
One of the council's own major schemes currently progressing is its Civic Campus project on King Street. Approved by Hammersmith and Fulham in 2019, it will see the Grade-II listed art deco town hall 'revitalised' as part of a wider series of works, including public squares, restaurants and a cinema.

The new campus will also deliver 204 new homes, 52 per cent of which are to be 'affordable'. Work was set back in 2022 when scaffolding fell on-site, injuring two men.

In a comment on the project's website, Council Leader Stephen Cowan said: "The award-winning architects RSHP have taken our ethos and vision for the Civic Campus and given us stunning new public amenities which breathes new life into our borough.

"We have benefited throughout from the commitment and wisdom of local volunteer commissioners. I am forever grateful to them and to all the people who attended the exhibitions offering their insights and advice. It is a beautiful, environmentally positive and accessible new quarter where people can live, work, play and relax."

No date is given for its completion, though a council spokesperson told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) earlier this year that it is 'coming along nicely'.

EdCity
Another council initiative, this time in collaboration with education charity Ark, EdCity is a scheme designed to provide facilities including homes, an office building, and community services to White City.

The project's website details how, once completed, a new 'education hub' will deliver benefits to the area through a new school, Ark White City Primary Academy, Harmony Nursery, and the Adult Community Education Centre, plus a new OnSide youth zone.

A total of 132 affordable homes are also planned for the site, all of which will be managed by the council. Of these, 33 will be at London Affordable Rent.

A timeline indicates the entire EdCity is hoped to be completed in 2025, though some facilities, such as Ark White City Primary and OnSide, are already open.

Hammersmith flyunder?
This is unlikely to happen anytime soon, with some doubting it will ever see the light of day, though the prospect of the Hammersmith flyover being replaced with an underground tunnel has been given fresh impetus.

In a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) published earlier this year, the council detailed its vision for Hammersmith Town Centre. This included building nearly 3,000 new homes, adding 10,000 jobs, and creating a Hammersmith high-line, similar to that introduced in New York. Perhaps the most eye-catching proposal, however, was that of knocking down the 1960s flyover and building a tunnel in its place.

According to the SPD, this would remove an 'eyesore and physical barrier', 'significantly' enhance the townscape, lessen the impact of through traffic, and release land for development.

Replacing the flyover with a flyunder has been considered on a number of occasions previously, though never got off (or under) the ground. Richard Farthing, Chair at the Hammersmith Society, previously told the LDRS: "The flyunder was always financially and logistically challenging and depended on large long-term cash injections plus commitment from TfL. It's hard to see how the numbers stack up now with all the construction inflation, some saying as much as 25 per cent, it's more on the wish list now. A plan B that doesn't rely on it is needed."



https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/key-hammersmith-fulham-developments-pipeline-29792832

[WhiteJC]

Fulham join race to sign Viktor Tsygankov
Fulham will reportedly look to seal a late move for 26-year-old Girona winger Viktor Tsygankov, with the Catalan outfit demanding around €30 million to part ways with him.

According to a report by AS, as relayed by Sport Witness, Viktor Tsygankov is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are keen on signing a wide attacker before the summer transfer window shuts down. Meanwhile, Girona will demand around €30 million to part ways with the 26-year-old winger.

The rise of Viktor Tsygankov
Viktor Tsygankov has been among the best wingers in La Liga since joining Girona from Dynamo Kyiv in January 2023. He went under the radar during his formative years and the early part of his career. However, he has taken to the Spanish top flight like a fish to water.

The 26-year-old was instrumental in Girona clinching a top-four finish in La Liga, contributing to 15 goals in 30 league outings by finding the back of the net eight times and providing seven assists. Meanwhile, Tsygankov's progress at Estadi Montilivi has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe.

Widespread reports have linked the Ukrainian international with European bigwigs like Arsenal, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona. However, those clubs have cooled their interest in securing Viktor Tsygankov's services, with Fulham emerging as the newest club in the race to land his signature.

London calling?
Fulham's interest in Viktor Tsygankov is understandable. The Cottagers have parted ways with Willian this summer, while Alex Iwobi is the only reliable wide attacker at the West London outfit. So, it behoves Fulham to invest in a top-quality winger, with the Girona forward emerging as a viable target for the club.

The report does not mention an impending bid, but Fulham must move quickly to secure Viktor Tsygankov's signature, considering the summer transfer window closes in less than a week. Meanwhile, the 26-year-old will not come cheap, with Girona demanding around €30 million to part ways with him in the coming days.

It is unclear if Fulham will be open to coughing up €30 million to secure Viktor Tsygankov's services in the summer transfer window. For now, the Ukrainian international has emerged as a viable target after his exploits in La Liga for Girona.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/08/24/fulham-join-race-to-sign-viktor-tsygankov/