Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 27/08/25...

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Marco Silva issues fresh Fulham transfer demand ahead of EFL Cup clash with Bristol City
Fulham manager Marco Silva has issued a fresh transfer demand ahead of Wednesday's EFL Cup clash against Bristol City.

The Cottagers have taken a point from each of their opening two Premier League matches, rescuing a 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion before repeating that scoreline in Sunday's clash with Manchester United.

Silva made a transfer plea following the draw against the Red Devils, claiming that he wants at least three new additions before Monday's deadline.

The Fulham boss reiterated his desire for new signings ahead of the EFL Cup second-round tie against Bristol City at Craven Cottage.

Silva makes Fulham transfer demand
"We have to (sign players)," Silva told reporters as per The Standard. "This is the situation. I'm answering this way to you, and it's not to put any more type of pressure at all. It's because we don't have other solutions."

Fulham have made just one new addition in the summer transfer window, recruiting goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte from French side Montpellier.

While Silva is keen for new signings, he has admitted that they could pursue moves for players who were not their original targets.

"If it's going to be what we did plan or not is another thing," Silva added. "When you leave everything for the final stages. Some things are not under your control no more. Some targets are not there no more.

"I think I'm the type of person that if you prepare the things and if you go in a certain direction, I believe that with time you can take better decisions and probably don't do certain type of mistakes too.

"Right now, I'm not in charge of negotiations. It's not for me. It's not my job."

Silva coy on difficult transfer window
Silva has been left frustrated by the club's lack of transfer business, but he was unwilling to explain why it has been a tough window up until this point.

"I don't want to go into why it's been difficult," Silva said when asked about why the club have struggled to make signings this summer.

The Fulham boss did at least reveal that the club do not need to sell to make room for new arrivals in the final week of the transfer market.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/silva-issues-fresh-fulham-transfer-demand-following-underwhelming-window_580101.html

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Marco Silva sees cup upset as a 'normal ambition' to anticipate in a 'difficult' fixture
The Fulham manager made clear his respect for Bristol City.

Marco Silva climbed out of the Championship at the first attempt, but he is not underestimating a "difficult" opponent from the English second tier. Fulham face Bristol City in the Carabao Cup, and there is no room for complacency against a club whose hopes of giant-killing are a "normal ambition."

    'We are serious about it'

Cup competitions can be a distraction for some sides that wish to focus on targets in the league. On the other hand, Silva is not satisfied if he does not see a dedicated display from his group in the cup.

"This one for us is very important. The last three seasons, we didn't hide ourselves, saying it's just another competition. It's very important, like the FA Cup is too, and we look really seriously for it."

He led the Cottagers to the semifinal of this tournament in 2024 when they bowed out to Liverpool 3-2 on aggregate. It was the first time the club have come that close to glory and he wants to do it again.

"We are serious about it. I think we have been showing we have been knocking on the door to arrival in the final stages of both competitions. We already achieved the semi-finals once in the last three seasons. When you already achieved the semis, the next step for us is trying to go to the final."

However, he is not letting himself get carried away with aspirations, planning to go game by game.

"But we have to go step by step, to share the ambition with our players and with our fans as well. Let's do the job that we have to do, game by game, and tomorrow is going to be a tough one."

Professional pride he has seen from the players in these contexts has impressed him in recent years.

"We have to take the responsibility of the game, take it very seriously. One thing that pleased me more in last few seasons in these competitions, is how we have been serious always with our approach."

He expects that standard to stay high, irrespective of how much he can rotate a squad light on depth.

"It doesn't matter if you repeat the same XI, or if you change players, doesn't matter the number that you are going to rotate or not, but the way we have been approaching these competitions is serious."

    'We want to do our maximum'

Giant killings are a significant part of the sporting culture in English football. The Robins might be a competitive club in the second tier, but they would be no less proud to defeat their hosts tomorrow.

"Difficult. Championship sides are always difficult to play against in this type of competition. They play against a Premier League side, they want to make some type of story in these competitions."

Silva steered the side back into the top flight in his first season, so he has battled before with the type of outfits that see the financial and emotional gain through a long run in one of the cup competitions.

"They know if they beat a Premier League side, they are always going to be in the spotlight. I think it's a normal ambition for any club when you are in lower divisions than the Premier League."

Bristol have not lost any of their four fixtures this season, beating MK Dons in the first round of the Carabao Cup and picking up five points from their first three outings in the Championship. Silva is sure that they will put their best foot forward in this fixture, and what matters most to him is a result.

"The most important for us is to be in the next round. We want to do our maximum. Massive respect, of course, for Bristol, they started well the season. They have quality, we are aware of their quality, the way they play, everything that they can put on the pitch, and the problems they can create for us."



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2025/08/26/fulham/1231723-marco-silva-sees-cup-upset-as-a-normal-ambition-to-anticipate-ina-difficult-fixture.html

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Report: Fulham to make final decision on Nigerian attacker today
Fulham have been heavily-linked with the Nigerian attacker in recent weeks, and they are set to make their final decision on him...

English Premier League club Fulham will make a decision on Nigerian attacker Philip Otele after they watch him in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers between FC Copenhagen and Basel today, Soccernet.ng reports.

Fulham have been seriously linked with Otele in recent weeks, as they look to recruit some talents before the close of the transfer market next week.

The 26-year-old Nigerian winger has been impressive at Basel. While he quick and a good dribbler, he also has a penchant for scoring goals.

Now, it appears that Fulham want to make a move. But according to transfers expert Ben Jacobs, the club want to watch how he performs for Basel in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League qualifiers against Copenhagen today.

If they are impressed with his showing, they will likely move quickly to sign him before the transfer window closes in four days.

Who is Fulham target Philip Otele?
Since then, he has played for clubs like UTA Arad, CFR Cluj, Al Wehda, and Basel. The 5'10 has never represented Nigeria at any level, nor has he played for any Nigerian club.

However, if he gets his big move to Fulham and impresses, he will surely get a looking for the Super Eagles.

Otele is currently valued at €4 million according to Transfermarkt.



https://soccernet.ng/2025/08/fulham-nigeria-philip-otele-basel.html

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Bristol City predicted team vs Fulham: Struber to face Riis call as Robins eye Carabao Cup upset
Bristol City and Gerhard Struber travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham in the second round of the Carabao Cup this evening

Dan Carter is the Bristol City reporter at Bristol Live. He joined the title in November 2024 having previously been a football reporter at Breaking Media. Before that, he was a sports journalism student at the University of Gloucestershire where he also covered the Robins whilst on placement. In his role, he wants to keep supporters informed with the latest news in and around Ashton Gate whether that be on matchdays, during transfer windows or everything in between.

Who's up for the cup? For one night only, Bristol City and Gerhard Struber's attention is once again diverted away from the Championship as the Robins travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham in the second round of the Carabao Cup.

The Robins boss and the City faithful have had a few days to reflect on their 1-1 draw with Derby County last time out. For 85 minutes, the Reds produced the perfect away performance after Scott Twine opened the scoring, only for Carlton Morris to burst the bubble of excitement when he turned home from close range late on to ensure the points would be shared at Pride Park.

In truth, Friday night's draw felt more like a defeat. Fortunately, in English football, you never have to wait too long for a chance to bounce back, and the Robins have such an opportunity this evening.

Granted, it won't be easy against a Fulham side that finished 11th in the Premier League last season and have started the new campaign with draws against Brighton and, most recently, Manchester United. Naturally, as the top-flight side, Marco Silva's side will come into this one as favourites, but what's the point of cup football if it doesn't produce an upset or two?

As has been the case throughout the season so far, Struber's side will have to take on this challenge without longer-term absentees Luke McNally, Cam Pring, Max O'Leary, and Joe Williams. Whether or not Emil Riis will be fit to feature after being forced off following a knock to the Achilles on Friday night is not yet clear, but the City boss was hopeful the Dane would be ready to play a part when asked after the full-time whistle at Pride Park.

Since his appointment in BS3, the Austrian has made no secret of his desire to compete on all fronts this term. A win tonight would see City book their spot in the third round of the League Cup for the first time since the 2022/23 season, when Nigel Pearson was still in charge at Ashton Gate.

With that out of the way, here's how we think Struber will set up the Robins against Fulham this evening...

Goalkeeper and defence
We'll start this predicted team as we mean to go on... with an admission that we're not completely sure just how Gerhard Struber and Bristol City will approach tonight's game.

That includes between the posts. If this were a Championship game, we would be as close to certain as we could possibly be that Radek Vietk would get the nod, having impressed in the early stages of his City career. However, the Manchester United loanee was left out of the squad in its entirety for the first round win over MK Dons.

Struber didn't suggest that absence was a result of injury. Could it have perhaps been part of the agreement with the Red Devils? We can't be sure at this stage, and in all honesty, we probably won't find out until 6:30 this evening. In an attempt to edge our bets, we'll back Joe Lumley to start for the second time this term as he featured and kept a clean sheet against Paul Warne's side in the first round.

Ahead of the goalkeeper, our expectation is that Struber will continue to operate with a three-man central defensive unit. The question facing the Robins head coach is whether or not Rob Atkinson is ready and able to start again, having played the full 90 minutes against Derby, and with another crucial Championship game around the corner this weekend.

The former Portsmouth loanee was also left out of the squad in the first round so that he could get a well-earned rest after the win over Sheffield United. Although we think Atkinson will again miss out on a spot in the starting line-up as City continue to manage his minutes, we think he will take a place on the Reds' bench at Craven Cottage.

In his place, our bet is that George Tanner will return to the fold against Marco Silva's side, and Zak Vyner will be shifted back into the left-sided centre-back position. Although the academy graduate is a more natural fit on the right side, he has shown both towards the end of last season and at times this term that he is more than capable of performing on the opposite flank.

Should that above prediction be correct, it will mean Rob Dickie keeps his place at the heart of City's backline. Now that he is back starting games for the Reds after his suspension, it would come as a surprise if he were to drop out of the team, as long as he avoids injury.

Midfield
With Adam Murphy starting for Bristol City Under-21s yesterday, and Joe Williams set for a little longer on the sidelines, it will more than likely be two of Jason Knight, Max Bird, and Adam Randell who are paired together in the middle of the park this evening.

You could make a case for any one of the three getting the nod or having a rest. Knight has played a lot of football, so perhaps could do with a break, but he is the captain and crucial to the way Gerhard Struber wants his side to play. Randell has also started every game so far this term, however, his work rate off the ball could be vital against Premier League opposition. Max Bird could do with the minutes after his injury, but is he ready to start matches?

We're going to play it safe, with our bet being the regular combination of Knight and Randell will feature from the off once again.

When it comes to who starts at wing-back, we're going to take the Robins head coach at his word that he wants to progress in both cups this term. With that, and the quick turnaround between games in mind, our prediction is that Yu Hirakawa will start on the left and Mark Sykes will continue on the opposite flank.

Hirakawa came off the bench late on in the draw with Derby County and should therefore be ready and able to start from the off. While Ross McCrorie could well get the nod ahead of the Japanese international, he appeared to tire in the closing exchanges at Pride Park, and with his injury record in mind, it seems an unnecessary risk to start him again this evening.

It is also possible that Struber instead puts his faith in youth and turns to Elijah Morrison. The academy graduate didn't feature for the Young Robins against Sheffield Wednesday, so we would expect him to be involved in some capacity tonight.

Sykes impressed against Derby, and while it could be argued he would be better utilised in a more advanced position, he is the closest thing City have to a right wing-back other than McCrorie. As was the case with Hirakawa, the Ireland international could drop to the bench instead of the former Aberdeen man, but we think he'll get another run-out at Craven Cottage.

Attack and striker
In every competitive game Bristol City have played so far this season, Gerhard Struber has used the same two attacking players just behind a sole centre-forward: Scott Twine and Anis Mehmeti. Of course, rotation is always a possibility, but there seems to be no reason the Reds boss would move away from his usual plan against Fulham tonight.

Twine has probably been the Robins' best player in the opening weeks of the new campaign, and having scored his third goal of the season against Derby last time out, he will no doubt be looking to further extend that tally against Premier League opposition. If City do have to operate without a lot of possession as well, his delivery from set-pieces could prove crucial.



https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/bristol-city-predicted-team-vs-10454565

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Blackburn batter Fulham U18s
Frank Vare hit a hat-trick Blackburn Rovers battered Fulham's under 18s 7-0 in their opening Premier League Cup fixture this afternoon.

The home side ran riot in the first half, scoring six times without reply. Frank Vare fired in the first goal after a poor clearance from Fulham centre back Logan Cooke and Rovers did not look back. Valentine Joseph stabbed home a second following further hesitant defending and would have made it three had he not blazed over when it looked more straightforward to score from close range.

The third goal wasn't long in coming as the lively Archie McCoy capitalised on another defensive mistake to finish past a disconsolate Ollie Mayer in the Fulham goal. Mayer then struggled to deal with an inswinging corner and Vare was on hand to make it 4-0. Vare soon completed his hat-trick by lashing a lovely left-footed finish into the far corner of the net and Fulham's dreadful first 45 minutes was made complete in the first minute of added time when Harry Lister's shot took a deflection and left Mayer with no chance.

Mayer made a series of splendid saves after the break striving to keep Blackburn's goal tally in single figures. The Fulham goalkeeper stood up well to thwart Joseph in a one-on-one before palming away a fierce drive from Joseph and recovering swiftly to tip over Charlie Clanford's effort. He was brilliantly beaten by Joseph, who lobbed in the seventh from 40 yards out, on an embarrassing afternoon for the young Whites.

Ali Melloul's side will look to get back to winning ways when they welcome Birmingham City to Motspur Park on Saturday, with the fixture kicking off at 12 noon.

BLACKBURN ROVERS UNDER 18: Thompson, Pitt, Decandia, Kelley-Quinn, Odogun, Ball (Potter 75),, Vare (Leatherbarrow 60), Clanford, Lister (Eze 87), McCoy, Joseph (Cryer 75). Subs (not used): Krajewski.

GOALS: Vare (5, 31, 35), Joseph (8, 73), McCoy (25), Lister (45+1).

FULHAM UNDER 18s: Mayer; Faux, Cooke, Schutter, Gomins (Cliff 45); Khan (Deagle 66), White; Zepa (Sutton-Bangura 60), Evans, Cavell (Lubega 45), Dair. Subs (not used): Bagot.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2025/08/blackburn-batter-fulham-u18s/

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Silva on Ridgeon: 'He's a very talented player'
Marco Silva says Fulham's sixteen-year starlet Seth Ridgeon is 'a very talented player' who has all the attributes to make his mark in senior football.

The Portuguese head coach reiterated his delight that the attacking midfielder committed his future to the Cottagers this summer – despite interest from Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain among others. Ridgeon has starred in Fulham's under-18 and under-21 sides but Silva was coy when asked by Jack Kelly if the talented youngster would feature in the matchday squad for tonight's League Cup tie against Bristol City.

"Let's what the decision is going to be. It was very important for us to renew his contract. He's a very very talented player that we have on our hands. Seth has to take the right steps in the right moments. I'm not here to rush decisions [on players] just because they have talent. They have to show whether they are ready to do it. He's doing the right things – he scored an important goal for the under-21s. This week, he was [training] with us.

"He's going to be around the [first] team, he went to Portugal with us – in the right moment, when I decide, he's going to have the chance. Let's see if it's going to be tomorrow or not. He didn't have a normal pre-season because he took the time to decide his future. He has to do his job tomorrow with the U21s, as they have an important match too. But, let's see what my decision is going to be.

At Fulham, we prepare our under-21 players for the first team, if we need them. We're always in direct contact [with the under 21s players and coaches]. If we need them they are going to be ready to help the first team. if we need them, like we did yesterday for example, [when] I had 10/11 under 21s training with the first team. I am ready to give the chance to them – whether it is the case of Seth, Josh King, Martial Godo or Sam [Amissah]."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2025/08/silva-on-ridgeon-hes-a-very-talented-player/

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Silva doesn't believe in deadline day 'miracles'
Marco Silva has cast doubt on the idea that Fulham could get better value for money in the final days of the transfer window – saying he doesn't believe in deadline day 'miracles'.

The Portuguese head coach reiterated that he desperately needs signings to strengthen his slender senior squad this week, explaining to Jack Kelly that his preference would have been to make additions earlier in the summer 'and have everything much more under control'. Silva said:

"I said it before, we don't have any other chance. The ones we talked about two or three months ago, [are] probably not [going to come now]. The market is always moving – I'd prefer to have everything much more under control and not leave [it] for the last final days."

Asked by Kelly about whether waiting sign players on deadline day – as Fulham have in recent times – delivered better results, Silva emphatically disagreed.

"I don't believe it. It's not the way I see the business of football. It's not the way I see the market. If you are waiting because the final day can give you that miracle? I don't think [so]. Even if you can find an amazing deal on the last day, I think in a completely different way ... football is much more than 'Wait for the last day, let's see if the miracle comes.'



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2025/08/silva-doesnt-believe-in-deadline-day-miracles/

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Exclusive: Nottingham Forest set sights on appointing Marco Silva as next manager
Nottingham Forest have set their sights on appointing Marco Silva as Nuno Espirito Santo's replacement, sources have told Football Insider.

Nuno's future at the Premier League club is up in the air after a public fall-out with owner Evangelos Marinakis and recruitment chief Edu Gaspar.

Sources say Marinakis is a big admirer of Silva, the long-standing manager of Fulham.

The 48-year-old is believed to be firmly on the radar of Forest and is currently the number one target as they eye the market for candidates to replace Nuno.

Marinakis wants a proven Premier League manager who would be able to make an instant impact with a squad that he is convinced is well equipped to challenge for a European place this season, while also competing in the Europa League.

Fulham face battle to keep Marco Silva
This summer, Silva has rejected advances from a number of clubs, including Tottenham, in favour of remaining at Craven Cottage.

However, the West London side have subsequently had a disappointing transfer window, completing just one signing so far.

As a result of the lack of business, Silva may be questioning his future at Fulham, and could be tempted by a move to the free-spending Nottingham Forest.

However, the Cottagers will be desperate to hold onto their Portuguese manager, who has guided the club up from the Championship and established them in the Premier League during his time in charge.

Leeds want to sign Nottingham Forest star
Meanwhile, Leeds United have reportedly identified Nottingham Forest winger Jota Silva as an option to strengthen out wide in the closing stages of the window.

That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who claims that the 26-year-old would be open to a move to Elland Road this summer.

This comes as Forest have spent around £127million on Omari Hutchinson, Dan Ndoye, Arnaud Kalimuendo, and James McAtee, all of whom can play out wide.

As a result, Silva is believed to be considering his long-term future at the City Ground, but would welcome the chance to remain in the Premier League.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-nottingham-forest-set-sights-on-appointing-marco-silva-as-next-manager/

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Up next: Bristol City (h)
Marco Silva has been clear over the past couple of days that he will have Fulham up for the League Cup. He shared with Jack Kelly yesterday his disappointment at the second round defeat by League Two Crawley Town in 2022 and reiterated that he wants to go further than reaching the semi-finals a couple of years ago.

Candidly discussing the Crawley collapse, Silva said: "For me, it was a big surprise. Sometimes the big surprises – even in a bad way, can help you and they can help the club to go in the direction you want. That moment was very important for me as a manager, even if it was tough to take.

The Portuguese head coach has been clear that he wants to take the next step as a football club – and that means competing in the latter stages of the cup competitions. Looking up at the photo of Fulham's fans forming that wonderful 'White Wall' at Wembley when Slavisa Jokanovic's side beat Aston Villa to win the Championship play-off final, Silva set his ambitions high – insisting he would be aiming to take his team all the way to Wembley.

While there's a contradiction between wanting to reach the later rounds of the cups and his clear frustration at the small size of his first team squad, Silva will be aiming to win tonight's tie against an in-form Bristol City outfit. He was coy when asked about the prospect of Seth Ridgeon making his first-team debut but admitted that eleven of the academy's under-21 squad have trained with the first team over the past few days. Silva has already promised several changes with the SW6 derby at Stamford Bridge coming up on Saturday lunchtime.

It will be something of a mix-and-match eleven because Fulham have recent experience of exiting this competition at the hands of Championship opposition – having lost a marathon penalty shoot at Preston North End last September. There should be a debut for the only summer signing to date, Benjamin Lecomte in goal, and an opportunity for Issa Diop at centre back. Harrison Reed and Tom Cairney could come into the midfield, whilst the likes of Ryan Sessegnon and Antonee Robinson, who have both started the season injured, will need more minutes.

Getting the balance right between blooding the youth talents – like Ridgeon and even under-21s forward Aaron Loupalo-Bi – and picking a team strong enough to progress is tricky. Gerhard Struber's side seem to have put the disappointment of being thrashed in last season's Championship play-offs behind them, with the former Barnsley boss beginning impressively at Ashton Gate. City avenged their aggregate loss to Sheffield United at Bramall Lane with a brilliant performance on the opening weekend of the season, and picked up points against Charlton Athletic and Derby County.

They were comfortable winners at Milton Keynes in the first round and Struber may look ring some changes at Craven Cottage tonight too. They will be without the services of Max O'Leary, Luke McNally, Joe Williams and Cameron Pring. Jason Knight, a scorer in the first round, should partner Adam Randell in the middle of the park whilst the dangerous Scott Twine will need to be watched carefully.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Lecomte; Castagne, R. Sessegnon, Diop, Cuenca; Reed, Cairney; Traore, Godo, Smith Rowe; Muniz. Subs: Leno, Tete, Andersen, A. Robinson, Lukic, Ridgeon, King, Jimenez, Loupalo-Bi.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2025/08/up-next-bristol-city-h-5/

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Matchday Preview: Bristol City
🆚 Bristol City
🏟 Craven Cottage
🏆 Carabao Cup
🗓 Wednesday 27th August
⏰ 7.45pm

The opposition

Bristol City have enjoyed a very decent start to their 2025/26 Championship campaign under new coach Gerhard Struber, remaining unbeaten from their first three matches after following up an impressive 4-1 opening day win away to Sheffield United with back-to-back draws versus Charlton Athletic and Derby County. They booked their spot in Round Two of the Carabao with a routine 2-0 victory over MK Dons.

Team news

🤍 Marco Silva has no new injury concerns to deal with.

🔴 Cameron Pring, Joe Williams, Max O'Leary and Luke McNally are all injured, while new signing Emil Riis went off having injured his Achilles in their draw with Derby and is a doubt.

Tickets

Tickets are on General Sale and prices start from £20 for adults & just £10 for juniors, while Season Ticket Holders can upgrade their seat to include Matchday Hospitality at a discounted rate.

Weather

🌧 There is a 30% chance of light rain showers by kick-off, with temperatures around 18 degrees.

Arrive early

Until 6.45pm, all pints of beer, cider & cans of wine will be priced at just £5, with soft drinks available for just £2, as part of our early bird drinks offers.

Penalties

If the score is level after 90 minutes, a penalty shoot-out will decide the outcome.

Round Three draw

Should we be successful, the draw for the Third Round will take place on Sky Sports on the same night, following the conclusion of Grimsby Town v Manchester United.

Fulham Flutter

The Fulham Flutter allows fans from across the UK to go into the running to win some unique Fulham prizes. Fans can purchase a season ticket to be automatically entered into every home draw or buy tickets on a match-by-match basis, with the winner of our top prize announced on the big screen at half-time of the match.

Coverage

FFCtv subscribers can listen to commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid.

Programme

Benjamin Lecomte has sampled top-flight football in France and Spain, but this summer brought him to Craven Cottage for a fresh challenge.

As he prepares for a possible home debut on Wednesday, Lecomte tells the official matchday programme of his determination to play his part in another big Fulham season.

"The experience I've had in different countries will help me adapt here," he said. "Playing in the Premier League is a big highlight in my career because we all know the power of this league. But I'm not here just for a highlight - I'm here to help the team when they need me. If we all push in the same direction, then we can have a big season again."

Elsewhere in the publication, we hear from Marco Silva and Tom Cairney, while our Cult Heroes series continues with an extensive interview with former Fulham and Bristol City striker Leroy Rosenior.

The 64-page programme will be on sale around the ground on Wednesday priced £3.50. Alternatively, you can pick up a copy online.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2025/august/27/matchday-preview-bristol-city/

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Bristol City Preview: How Fulham BEAT Bristol City
Fulham's league cup journey begins. Every season hopes of a cup run, a Wembley trip, the pinnacle: a trophy, are dreamt up. After 146 years of existence, Fulham remain the biggest club in Britain to not have won a major trophy. I wholeheartedly believe 2025 could be our year, but first, we have to get past Bristol City. Here's how we do it:

Analysing Our Opposition
Bristol City's new boss, Gerhard Struber, will see Fulham as the first Premier League opposition he has faced in his career. The Whites will be an opportunity for the Robins to weigh themselves up against top flight opposition, a chance for the reds to test their metal, after an unbeaten start to the season. Subsequently, I think the Robins will roll out a strong XI.

City raced out the traps with a statement, 4–1, 'Steel City' win against Sheffield United on the second tier's opening day, but since then, Struber's side have struggled offensively. A 0–0 draw away in East London at Charlton Athletic, and a 1–1 draw at Pride Park, against Derby County followed, but the West Country's premiere side are creating chances. City have the eighth worst XG differential in the second tier, suggesting creating chances is not the issue, the 'Cider Army' simply convert chances into goals.

Whilst the 'Red Army' struggle to get the ball in the onion bag, they certainly don't seem to struggle to keep the ball out of it. City have conceded just twice all term, joint second least in the Championship. No suprise really when you factor in the fact that Gerhard Struber succeeded the defensively famed, Liam Manning, as Bristol boss. The Robins defensive successes just enlargers the potential banana skin that is this league cup second round fixture.

Who is the Robins danger man, you ask? Scott Twine. After an underwhelming big money Burnley move, Scott Twine has found his feet at Ashton Gate, notching up six goal involements from four appearances this campaign. If you want a litmus test on how seriously Bristol City are taking this Fulham fixture, when the lineups are announced, just look: does Scott Twine start? Without Twine, I feel Bristol will really lack attacking potency. With Scott, they could cause Fulham all sorts of issues.

How Fulham Tactically Outwit The Robins
Gerhard Struber sets his Bristol City side in a defensively sound 5–2–3. A back three is supplemented by two defensively sound wing backs out wide, and a rigid midfield pivot centrally.

It's no wonder Bristol have withheld their outstanding defensive record, without the ball, I wouldn't be shocked to see the Bristolians with as eight men behind the ball for much of this evening's cup clash. City will look to get the ball into Scott Twine for a moment of magic, often looking to overload opposition with a right sided overload, courtesy of the offensively dangerous, Ross McCrorie, and Scott Twine. Another thing to look out for is Twine's free kicks, his opening day set piece strike, tells you all you need to know about the 26 year old's dead ball ability. Fouling within striking distance of goal should be avoided at all costs.

To counteract City's right sided attacking persuasion, Antonee Robinson should get his inaugural 25/26 start, the perfect chance to find fitness, Jedi should be tasked with the lone task of shutting down the Robins McCrorie, and Twine tandem. The right side of play will this time take up Fulham's wide attacking mantle. Here's how Fulham tactically beat Bristol City in possession:

This game, like last time out, against five at the back opposition, Manchester United, will be won in the midfield. Fulham overloading central areas and exploiting Bristol's mere two midfielders is the path to the League Cup third round for Marco Silva. It's a numbers game. I want to see three midfielders up for a midfield battle, ready make use of their numerical advantage up against a tough tackling 'Cider Army' pivot.



Harrison Reed should be given his first start of the season. I'd like to see Reed give more minutes if Fulham don't bring in a number six before the hallowed transfer deadline. That should start tonight. Reed starts in the six.



https://medium.com/@LondonsOriginal/bristol-city-preview-how-fulham-beat-bristol-city-94ec29d27ddd

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Ridgeon could make Fulham debut in cup game
Sixteen-year-old midfielder Seth Ridgeon could make his senior debut for Fulham in tonight's Carabao Cup game against Bristol City.

The England Under-17s captain signed his first professional contract this summer, as Fulham held onto him amid interest from other Premier League clubs.

And boss Marco Silva could involve him in the second-round tie.

"Let's see what the decision is going to be," said Silva.

"I'm not here to rush decisions just because they have talent. They have to show whether they are ready to do it.

"He's doing the right things. This week he was with us (the first-team squad). He's going to be around the (first) team – he went to Portugal with us (in pre-season).

"In the right moment, when I decide, he's going to have the chance."

The likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City were linked with Ridgeon prior to him signing a new deal.

"It was very important for us to renew his contract," said Silva.

"He's a very very talented player that we have on our hands. Seth has to take the right steps in the right moments."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/football-wls-fulham-prospect-could-make-debut

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Moretto: Milan and Fulham in talks over 'permanent transfer' for winger
AC Milan and Fulham are in talks over a permanent transfer for Samuel Chukwueze, according to a report, following a dormant interest from the English side.

Chukwueze joined Milan in the summer of 2023 and while glimpses of his quality have been seen, it's not exactly been a super successful tenure so far. In 70 appearances, he has managed 8 goals and 6 assists for the Rossoneri, which isn't good enough for a right-winger.

As a result, a transfer has never been ruled out this summer and the interest of Fulham, which has been evident since January, has always been in the background. Just last week, Matteo Moretto reported that a 'late attempt' could arrive from the club.

Talks ongoing
Sure enough, as the journalist predicted and now expands on, Fulham have initiated talks with Milan over a permanent transfer for Chukwueze. The Rossoneri made it clear earlier on that they wouldn't accept a loan formula, so having the permanent element is a huge step forward.

No price tag has been mentioned in the media yet, but Milan would probably demand around €25-30m to offload the former Villarreal man. Especially when you consider that he will be their only attacking option on the bench against Lecce on Friday.

It remains to be seen if more updates will arrive during the day, but if Fulham truly are serious, that will likely be the case.



https://sempremilan.com/moretto-milan-fulham-permanent-transfer-winger

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The arguments for and against selling Andreas Pereira
As Fulham reportedly look to offload their Brazilian midfielder, we look at both the pros and the cons of the deal.

It's widely acknowledged that Fulham are ready to call time on Andreas Pereira's time at Craven Cottage. But is that a good call? As with everything, there are two sides to that argument.

George Rossiter: time to sell
This is the perfect time to move Andreas Pereira on.

Firstly, from a contract perspective, Andreas joined on a four-year deal three years ago, so we're effectively collecting back the fee we paid for him in 2022, when he could leave for zilch at the end of this season. That's clever business for a player who frustrates a decent proportion of our fans and looks to slowly being phased out by Marco Silva.

Let me preface, I am by no means anti-Pereira; we have to recognise the role he played in helping us re-acclimatise to the Premier League, coming in with a point to prove at this level. But ultimately, certain positions in this team need evolving; to do that you have to move players on that simply don't have a place anymore, and for me Pereira is one of those.

When AP signed, we all adored the way he'd press high for 90 minutes and cause opposition defenders all sorts of issues on the ball. At times it was like playing an old school 4-4-2 out of possession the way he moved beyond Aleksandar Mitrovic to get in the faces of opposing teams.

However, since recovering from his broken ankle sustained against Manchester City at the back end of that first season back in the Premier League, something's just not been the same. The intent is there but it feels like his ability to be that pressing machine for a sustained period of time disappeared. Often his efforts would tail off towards the end of the first half of games before he'd eventually be subbed off around the 60-70 minute mark because his body just wouldn't let him play that role on a game-by-game basis.

We also have to consider the position Andreas plays in. That first season his name was the first on the teamsheet as that number 10 in behind Mitro. Since then, Marco Silva has frequently tried the Brazilian in a variety of deeper roles that time after time just have not worked to the same effect.

His four assists last season was his lowest effort for Fulham, and his eight yellow cards his joint highest too. He just didn't adapt to that role and it cost us quite often with his quite obvious lack of positional discipline. With Marco Silva putting faith in Josh King (and Seth Ridgeon soon to also emerge) while also pointing out in the media the need for a new, more creative number eight in the transfer market, Pereira just doesn't have a place in this squad anymore.

The decline in goal contributions and lack of general creativity from midfield have frustrated the fan base to a point where I think most will be happy to say thank you and goodbye at this point in time.

Perhaps though, the greatest frustration regarding Andreas, is his constantly poor set pieces. He's been the nominated man on dead balls for most of his time at the club and yet produced so little from them. Seeing free kicks miss the mark from promising positions and corners not beat the first man so frequently when the likes of Jimenez, Wilson and Lukic are known to be good set piece takers and viable alternative options within the squad, only added to that frustration.

The main argument I can imagine for anyone wanting Andreas to stay is because he's a pressing monster; he's an important creative threat and brings an element of grit and determination that any fan loves to see.

Unfortunately, as I've pointed out, those abilities are on the decline and there are simply better players both in our own system and out there in the market to help this squad evolve beyond the current level of a player who seems to have peaked in the Premier League and won't hold any market value for the club in less than 12 months time.

For me, it's time to thank Andreas Pereira for his contributions and move on to greener pastures in our midfield.

Jack Collins: not so fast
I can understand the logic of selling Andreas - with a wonderkid emerging in Josh King and our club record signing battling for that number 10 position with him, there's no obvious place for the Brazilian in the role we've seen him play best in for the last few seasons. There's also the fact that he's one of Fulham's few sellable assets at this point, but I still have major reservations about letting him leave with the squad in its current state.

There's a couple of reasons for this. The first is that I still think we're a little bit short of creativity in deeper positions, and that while the tried-and-trusted partnership of Sander Berge and Saša Lukić offers much in terms of shielding the back line, I think it's going to be a problem when we try and break down teams who are defending leads against us.

This is not a slander on either Saša or Sander - who are both very good footballers doing an excellent job at what they're being asked to do - but more that neither particularly offer Fulham much going forward, either in terms of passing or destructive carrying at the moment. This could change, obviously, but we haven't seen it yet.

In the excellent Fulham season preview on The Transfer Flow, Kim McCauley wrote that "Berge was the holder, while Lukić was the guy who did the closing down, and they complimented each other well in these roles. But neither offered the team anything in terms of ball progression. In possession, they kept it simple and just made sure they weren't the guy who screwed things up. Good teams can get away with having one of those players in their midfield, but usually not two."

Andreas is a frustrating player at times, and he loses the ball far more regularly than some of our other midfielders - but that's because he tries things. His pass completion rate is lower than others because his passing is usually forwards, trying to progress the ball up the pitch. And that's something that we don't have other options for in deeper positions - while Andreas isn't a natural number eight, he offers something in there that we don't currently have in the squad: the ability to punch forward in both a passing and carrying sense, from one of the two deeper roles.

The other reason I think he should be staying is that he brings a pressing intensity that we are yet to see from Emile Smith Rowe and remains a bit of a mystery from Josh King at this point in his career. In the two games so far, Fulham have been chasing to come from behind, meaning that the substitutions have been about adding more attacking flair - but what about when things aren't like that?

No team dropped more points from winning positions last season, so when we're defending a lead, things have to look different. In those situations, I would rather have the industrious workrate of Pereira, closing down defenders, forcing teams long, leading the press - than any of our other options right now. Marco Silva has trusted Andreas (to the chagrin, at times, of the fanbase) as much as anybody else in our last three (successful) seasons, and to lose an experienced head and leader in the dressing room right now would be a shame.

Without a significant fee (the reports suggest around £8m, which feels low), having a player of his workrate and quality in the side should be something that Fulham are looking to maintain. There are evidently many layers to this, and if he's pressing for a move (he presses well), then by all means, you open that door - but without replacing that creativity and intensity, the Fulham squad will be weaker for not having Andreas as part of it.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/p/the-arguments-for-and-against-selling

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Milan set asking price as Fulham continue talks for Chukwueze
Milan have set an asking price of €25 million for Nigerian forward Samuel Chukwueze, as reports from Italy claim that Premier League side Fulham are in negotiations with the Rossoneri over the 26-year-old.

According to what has been reported by transfer expert Matteo Moretto, via MilanNews.it, the Rossoneri want a total package of €25 million for the Nigerian, split amongst both fixed and variable components.

Fulham are in constant contact with the Serie A side over this deal and are working quickly to try and reach an agreement before the transfer window shuts.

High hopes for Chukwueze let down as Milan forward heads for Fulham
When Milan completed the signing of Samuel Chukwueze from Villarreal in 2023, the forward was given lofty expectations. In reality, an average couple of seasons for the Rossoneri has left him surplus to requirements, even when the Lombardian club are in a spot of bother with their attacking options.

In 69 games for Milan, the Nigerian has scored just eight goals – with just four goals in 51 Serie A appearances.



https://football-italia.net/milan-set-asking-price-as-fulham-chukwueze/

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Fulham poised to pay £21.5m for Chukwueze
Fulham have reportedly agreed a £21.5m fee with AC Milan for the permanent signing of winger Samuel Chukwueze, according to various Italian journalists.

The breakthrough in lengthy negotiations between the two clubs – first reported by Matteo Moretto – could see the Nigerian winger become Fulham's second signing of a quiet summer that has disappointed first team coach Marco Silva. Chukwueze came on for the final 25 minutes of the Rossoneri's 2-1 home defeat by Cremonese on Saturday night and has been looking for regular first-team football after struggling to match his Villarreal exploits in Serie A.

The 26 year-old, who won the Europa League with Villarreal in 2021, has scored eight goals in 69 games since moving to Milan in July 2023. He has won 46 senior caps for his country and helped the Super Eagles finish runners-up in the 2023 African Cup of Nations after winning the third/fourth play-off four years earlier.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2025/08/fulham-poised-to-pay-21-5m-for-chukwueze/

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Fulham close to signing winger Chukwueze from AC Milan
Fulham are close to signing winger Samuel Chukwueze from AC Milan.

The Nigeria international, 26, looks set to move to Craven Cottage for around £21.5m.

He was on Fulham's radar during the January transfer window and the club have maintained their interest in him.

A deal now appears to be close and the transfer could be finalised in the next 48 hours.

Chukwueze moved to Milan from Villarreal in 2023.

Fulham boss Marco Silva, who has bemoaned the club's lack of transfer activity, has been keen to sign at least one winger this summer.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-close-to-signing-winger-chukwueze-from-ac-milan

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Moretto: Milan and Fulham in 'constant contact' to close €25m Chukwueze transfer
Samuel Chukwueze appears to be getting closer to a move to Fulham as talks with AC Milan have progressed well, with the deal expected to be worth around €25m.

This morning, following an interest that has been evident for months, Matteo Moretto reported that Fulham had initiated negotiations with Milan over Chukwueze. The winger has never really had a starting spot at the club and after two years of trying, he's ready to leave.

Modt importantly, Milan only want to part ways with the Nigerian on a permanent basis, as they would need to sign a replacement before the window closes. It seems that Fulham could satisfy their needs in that sense.

Deal worth €25m
As added by Matteo Moretto, Milan and Fulham are 'in constant contact' to reach an agreement on the structure of the transfer. Between the fixed fee and bonuses, the deal is believed to be worth around €25m, which is what we predicted the Rossoneri would request.

With contacts ongoing, it's clear that the English side have accelerated their pursuit of Chukwueze, with an agreement potentially arriving very shortly. It would be somewhat bad news for Max Allegri as he would only have two attackers available for the game against Lecce this Friday.

Even if Chukwueze ends up being called up for the clash, Milan will likely not play him due to the injury risk, especially if a €25m deal is on the cards.



https://sempremilan.com/moretto-milan-fulham-contact-25m-chukwueze

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Fulham being stalled on signing – Desire for attacker to play on Friday before transfer
On Tuesday, Corriere dello Sport reported Fulham are pushing to sign AC Milan's Samuel Chukwueze.

They claimed the winger's sale could depend on Rafael Leao's fitness, as the Rossoneri have limited options in attack for the next few games due to the Portuguese attacker's fitness issues.

Milan's training session on Friday was going to be key in whether the Italian side allow Chukwueze to leave.

Daniele Longo reports talks between the Diavolo and Fulham are now progressing for the winger. MilanLive report further and say that parties are discussing the possibility of a permanent deal for Chukwueze. There is optimism that a move can go through soon.

Milan are trying their best to delay Fulham's move though, as they want to have the 26-year-old available for their next Serie A game against Lecce.

This can allow enough time for Leao to return and they will be able to use the Nigerian for another game, as they lack options in attack right now.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-being-stalled-on-signing-desire-for-attacker-to-play-on-friday-before-transfer/