Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 17/12/25...

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Fulham want to sign Moise Kean
Fulham are interested in acquiring the services of Fiorentina forward Moise Kean as they look to reinforce their attack mid-season.

Moise Kean might not be in the best of form this season, but there is still no shortage of interest in him. The Italian international could end up securing a return to the Premier League, as Fulham are keen on signing the former Everton star.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Marco Silva is keen on reuniting with the 25-year-old, as he looks to reinforce his attack at Fulham in the upcoming winter transfer window. While it seems to be a high-risk, high-reward gamble, the Cottagers seem willing to try their luck.

Silva was the one who signed Kean at Everton back in 2019 from Juventus. While they had massive expectations from the young striker, he failed to live up to them. After failing to establish himself at the Merseyside club and struggling to make the most out of his loan spells, he returned to the Old Lady in the summer of 2023.

A year later, he ended up joining Fiorentina in a deal worth around €13 million. Kean had an exceptional debut campaign as he bagged 25 goals and three assists in his 44 outings across competitions. 19 of those goals came in the Italian top flight.

His sensational performances did attract a lot of attention. However, the 25-year-old has failed to replicate similar performances this time around, with just three goals in 18 outings. While he recently penned a new deal that runs until 2029, Kean seems open to a move away from the club.

Fulham plot a raid on Fiorentina
He is interested in making a return to the Premier League, as he hopes to make it to Italy's squad for the World Cup. With Fiorentina struggling, a move to a club like Fulham can certainly appeal to the young striker.

Meanwhile, Marco Silva seems to be the major force behind the Cottagers' pursuit of the 25-year-old. While things didn't work out for Kean under him at Everton, Silva feels he could finally click in the English top flight.

The London club are considering making an offer for him once the transfer window reopens. They lack firepower in the final third and Kean with his pace and finishing can certainly help their cause. However, Fiorentina value him at around €50 million, which could certainly complicate negotiations.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2025/12/17/fulham-want-to-sign-moise-kean/

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Predicted Newcastle United lineup vs Fulham as Yoane Wissa starts
Eddie Howe must pick his Newcastle United team up to face Fulham in the quarter-final of the Carabao Cup.

There will be a strange atmosphere inside St James' Park after Newcastle United's defeat to Sunderland, and only Eddie Howe can change that.

He needs to ensure his team start to put things right on Wednesday night, as they turn their attention to defending the Carabao Cup.

It is a massively important game for Newcastle United, and this is Geordie Boot Boys' predicted starting XI to face Fulham.

One change in defence against Fulham
With Dan Burn injured for up to six weeks, there will be one change to the Newcastle United defence that started against Sunderland.

Fabian Schar will replace the 33-year-old, as he prepares to become Malick Thiaw's centre-back partner for the foreseeable future.

Given Newcastle United's defensive issues, that will probably be the only change at the back. Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall should start at full-back, with Eddie Howe having just four fit senior defenders.

Eddie Howe makes Joelinton call as Sandro Tonali is rested
Joelinton did not feature at all in the Tyne-Wear derby, and he will be eager to be involved on Wednesday night.

Alas, Geordie Boot Boys predict that he will be on the bench again, with Joe Willock starting on the left of Newcastle's midfield three.

He could be joined by Bruno Guimaraes and Lewis Miley, with the former apologising to Newcastle United fans for losing against Sunderland.

Sandro Tonali is tipped to be on the bench, with Howe recently stating that he has been struggling for fitness after a recent bout of illness.

Yoane Wissa makes his first Newcastle United start
Ahead of the cup clash with Fulham, Howe hinted that Yoane Wissa could start.

We are backing that to happen, as he aims to score his first Newcastle United goal. While playing 90 minutes is likely beyond him, it would be great to see Wissa get an hour of football under his belt, especially with Nick Woltemade suffering from fatigue.

Out wide, we are predicting Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes to start. That would see Anthony Elanga drop out, which feels wise after the criticism he received for his performance on Sunday.

Alan Shearer called Elanga 'awful' against Sunderland, and it is probably best to take him out of the firing line.

Predicted XI vs Fulham: Ramsdale; Livramento, Thiaw, Schar, Hall; Miley, Bruno, Willock; Barnes, Wissa, Gordon.



https://www.geordiebootboys.com/match/predicted-newcastle-united-lineup-vs-fulham-as-yoane-wissa-starts/

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Silva seeks to approach Carabao Cup quarter-final with 'full ambition' of making history
Fulham are fighting for domestic cup glory against the holders of the Carabao Cup.

Marco Silva spoke about the challenge of going to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup.

Fulham were beaten 2-1 by the Toon at St. James' Park earlier this season in the Premier League, and they must defeat Newcastle to reach the final four of the Carabao Cup for the second time ever.

"It's a big game. From the first moment of this competition, I've been saying that we aim high. Now that we are playing Quarter-Finals, with the chance to be in the Semi-Finals, we are not going to hide ourselves.

"We go to play the game with the full ambition that we can be in the Semi-Finals, because it's our aim, it's our ambition to be there.

"We play against a tough side – we have been very strong against them, like they have been against us, the games have been very competitive against each other recently.

"Probably one of the toughest places to play in this country, but at the same time, probably one of the best places to play football and to enjoy a football match in this country as well. And we have to go full of ambition that the Semi-Finals are there for one team to take, and let's hope it can be ourselves.

"Nothing is impossible in football, but we have to be realistic. The best way to achieve something, the cups are the way. And we have been trying to create this mentality inside the Club, and because of that we did achieve, for the first time ever, Semi-Finals two years ago in this competition.

"Last season, the Quarter-Finals of the FA Cup. And we want to go again. Let's go to play each stage of the competition with full ambition. Of course, silverware is always in our mind.

"Such a historic club, that doesn't have a title in this type of competition, it's something that if you can achieve, you can imagine how the fans are going to feel, and how we can really put a statement in this football club."



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2025/12/16/fulham/1244739-silva-seeks-to-approach-carabao-cup-quarter-final-with-fullambition-of-making-history.html

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Newcastle drop Fulham team news hint as forgotten man could return after 'dangerous' admission
The Magpies need to navigate a defensive injury crisis ahead of the visit of Fulham

Newcastle United have a defensive injury crisis on their hands when Fulham make the trip to St James' Park this evening for the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.

Dan Burn's rib injury he picked up in the 1-0 defeat to Sunderland will keep him sidelined for four to six weeks. Sven Botman is still not fit enough to return to action after a back injury while Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth's return dates have been extended to the new year.

Jamaal Lascelles has been dealing with a knee problem but it is hoped he could be back in the squad this evening. If he isn't, Newcastle will be down to just four fit senior defenders in the midst of a gruelling fixture pile-up.

And when asked about managing the minutes of full-backs Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall, Newcastle's only two fit senior full-backs, Howe said the situation with the club's defensive structure is reaching a 'dangerous point'.

"I'd love to look after them but I don't know how we can with the scale of games that we've got," Howe said.

"I'll speak to them on an individual basis and see how they are. At the moment they're OK, they're good. The beauty of it is they're young, very good athletes, they have great attitudes and want to play.

"But of course we'll speak to our performance team and make sure they're fit to play. With every selection you're putting people on the pitch and there's a risk of injury. But we're getting a dangerous point with our defensive structure."

Young defender Alex Murphy has been involved in recent matchday squads and he offers a potential solution at centre-half and at left-back. Jacob Murphy and Lewis Miley have shown they can be used as utility options at right-back, too.

But what about Harrison Ashby? The 24-year-old has not made a single competitive appearance for Newcastle's first team since signing from West Ham United three years ago and has been playing for the under-21s this season after loan spells at Swansea and QPR.



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-drop-fulham-team-news-33070972

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Fulham & Birmingham City combine to save Exeter City, not Man City
Tony Kellow, Sean Devine, Adam Stansfield, Scott Hiley... Peter Crouch?

Exeter City fans gained a new hero during the 2025/26 FA Cup Third Round draw when the former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur striker Crouch pulled the Grecians' name out of the hat to set up an exciting trip to Manchester City.

Not only did the draw produce a mouth-watering day out to face one of the best teams on the planet in one of the best arenas going, it also brought some much-needed cash into the League One side's coffers.

The Devon outfit has been going through some well publicised financial issues through the second half of 2025, blamed largely on the ever-increasing money needed to compete in the third tier, a fire at St James Park and a sell-on clause being triggered in Jay Stansfield's £15m transfer from Fulham to Birmingham City in 2024.

Usually these sells ons are great news and the lifeblood of Exeter City, but they're usually in control of how they're inserted and paid as the selling club.

However, as this one was inserted by an independent tribunal when Stansfield was poached by Fulham's academy as a teenager, City had no control over the conditions. City also had no control over the terms that took Stansfield to St Andrew's.

Jay Stansfield transfer structured over 7 years
 If the forward had just moved in an old-school deal where it's cash up front, it would have been happy days for the Grecians. Money in the bank.

But, in the current climate of FFP and amortisation, The Blues will pay in the region of £15m for Stansfield over seven years, with most of City's cut coming in the final 24 months.

In theory, that's good and helps for long-term planning. However, for reasons known only to highly-paid accountants, Exeter were hit with a £3m corporation tax bill that had to be paid this financial year.

How? Why? Was it down to incompetence? A mistake? Is this the way things will be from now on? So many questions still remain over the fiasco, but the club did know this was coming and publicly warned of the impact it could have on immediate finances at the time.

This, the fire, overspending, and a controversial training camp in La Manga, Spain, in 2024/25, all amounted to a perfect storm for the side who are widely thought to have a bottom-two budget in League One.

Exeter City's future was looking bleak
 Alarm bells started ringing when Chief executive Joe Gorman and Trust and club chairman Nick Hawker suddenly resigned at the start of the 2025/26 season and the Supporters' Trust started pumping cash into the coffers.

Many others left their posts at club and Trust level and staff redundancies were made.

Incoming chairman Richard Pym made the stark assessment to DevonLive that: "I can't promise anything, but I expect Exeter City to be able to complete the season."

Maybe it was complacency, maybe it was confidence in those running the club and how they've handled the finances over the last two decades, but the mere thought that there was even a possibility that the Grecians could go bust before the end of the season sent shockwaves through the fanbase.

All of this highlights why Crouch's perfect timing in pulling the No.61 ball from the bag was so important.

There are parallels that no City fan would have missed with Tony Cascarino's heroics with the No.64 ball in the 2004/05 FA Cup Third Round draw when he handed the Grecians a life-saving away day at the mighty Manchester United with the club in dire straights in the early fan-ownership days.

Crouch goes right up there with Cascarino in the cult-hero stakes, but those in charge of Fulham and Birmingham should also get plenty of credit.

While the trip to The Etihad will generate a huge amount of cash for City, a deal done with, or by, the Premier League and Championship sides to pay some of the promised Stansfield cash forward is game-changing and, potentially, life-saving. At the very least it's averted a serious crisis.

Exeter were slightly guarded in their announcement of the monies received. "We are pleased to confirm that this week we completed a banking transaction that brings forward the receipt of some deferred transfer monies," Pym said.

Some speculated that the club had taken out a loan against the future payments and this hasn't been ruled out.

Since then it's been reported that Birmingham have pre-paid some of the promised cash and that Fulham have sent it along, though official conformation on that is still lacking.

FA Cup tie has echoes of 2005
 Since the draw all feels relatively rosy in Devon's capital, but it's worth remembering that this deal was done before the Manchester City tie was confirmed.

So, if, as reported, Fulham and Birmingham have got together to send what is a relative pittance for them to Exeter, then it's fantastic news, and it's something that neither was obliged in any way to do.

City's trip to Old Trafford 21 years ago generated over £1m for the club, but that was in the days of replays (0-0 at Old Trafford, no less) and the game down in Devon was televised.

Football finance expert Kieran Maguire estimated that the FA Cup third round draw would bring in 'at least' £250,000 to the Grecians but, based on the 2005 money, this will surely be a lot higher than that, though a lack of replays and the game not being on TV hampers Exeter's earning potential.

Whatever happens it's brought closure on a bumpy few months in Devon's capital. The Manchester City money will be hugely appreciated, but it's Fulham and Birmingham who have gone above and beyond to no benefit for themselves and that must be commended.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-birmingham-city-combine-to-save-exeter-city-not-man-city/

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Andreas Pereira gets himself into fan drama after Fulham
Andreas Pereira, who left Fulham in the summer, has found himself back in the Brazilian spotlight following comments aimed at Flamengo after their Libertadores triumph.

The midfielder, who played for Flamengo between 2021 and 2022, was at the centre of controversy after a viral post from their fans. The post mocked Pereira for his past mistakes – particularly in the 2021 Libertadores final, when a misplaced touch from the midfielder led to the goal that secured Palmeiras' title.

Fast forward to 2025, and Pereira has moved to Palmeiras, that played a rematch against Flamengo in this year's Libertadores final. This time, the Rio club won 1-0 and lifted the trophy. After the final, Flamengo published a social media post referencing Pereira's past mistake, reigniting the narrative around the midfielder.

Speaking to Estadão, Pereira addressed the backlash, saying, "They are more worried about me than celebrating the Libertadores. I have no resentment in my heart. I'm at Palmeiras now, and the most important thing today is Palmeiras."

The midfielder, who was heavily criticised by Flamengo fans for his mistake in 2021, said he's always respected all the clubs he's played for. Still, he questioned why the focus remained on him rather than on Flamengo's recent victory.

"I respect every club I have played for and have never disrespected anyone in my career. If they think it's more important to talk about me when they win a title, it shows the greatness of Palmeiras," he added.

We'll see how this latest chapter impacts his standing at Palmeiras, but the player once again finds himself at the centre of a dramatic narrative. Nothing new for Fulham fans.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/andreas-pereira-gets-himself-into-fan-drama-after-fulham/

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Fulham and Brighton make contact for midfielder after summer Nottingham Forest exit
Fulham and Brighton have both checked on Danilo's situation at Botafogo, as Premier League interest in the midfielder refuses to go away.

According to FogãoNET, citing ESPN Brasil, the two English clubs made enquiries for January, but stopped short of submitting formal offers.

From Botafogo's side, the message has been firm. The club's board have told Brazilian media they have no intention of negotiating Danilo at this stage, viewing him as a key figure in Davide Ancelotti's plans since his arrival from Nottingham Forest. That stance mirrors what happened earlier in the season and shows little appetite to reopen talks, even with English interest back on the table.

The report also notes that Fulham and Brighton are not alone. Danilo has already received previous contacts from other European clubs, particularly from Italy, underlining how closely he is being followed across the continent. Still, for now, those approaches remain exploratory rather than concrete.

Fulham's name inevitably brings September back into focus. At the end of the window, the London club offered €30m for Danilo, only to see Botafogo reject the bid. The Brazilian side argued there was no time to replace him with the window closing, a justification that shut the door quickly.

Danilo only joined Botafogo in July, arriving from Nottingham Forest in a €22m deal, the most expensive signing in the club's history.

Despite some injury issues, the 24-year-old finished the year with 17 appearances, one goal and four assists. For Fulham and Brighton, the interest is clear, but turning it into a deal looks another matter altogether.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-and-brighton-make-contact-for-midfielder-after-summer-nottingham-forest-exit/

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Eddie Howe must avoid SJP first against Fulham by repeating Malick Thiaw trick
Eddie Howe is walking into the unknown as Newcastle United manager against Fulham.

For all the highs of his Newcastle United tenure, this is Eddie Howe's lowest moment on Tyneside. Newcastle United's defeat to Sunderland was unacceptable, with Howe's side putting in an embarrassing performance.

It compounded what has been a frustrating and inconsistent season so far, and now the Magpies must turn their attention to the Carabao Cup. They are one win away from another semi-final, as they prepare to face Fulham at St James' Park.

Newcastle United will be under huge pressure, and it is vital that they start fast.

Newcastle United have to start fast against Fulham in the Carabao Cup
It is unclear what the mood will be like inside St James' Park against Fulham. It is hardly going to be buzzing after the devastating defeat to Sunderland.

There will be a fear that the crowd could become restless and turn on Howe's team if things start to go wrong, which is why it is vital that Newcastle United come out all guns blazing.

Howe needs his players to start fast against Fulham, showing the kind of intensity that was absent on Sunday. An early goal certainly would not go amiss, just like the one Newcastle scored against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in November.

Malick Thiaw gave Newcastle United the lead within the first minute, on a night when they secured their first away win in the Premier League. That early goal settled Toon nerves, as they comfortably won 4-1.

A similarly strong start is important for Eddie Howe, otherwise the atmosphere inside St James' Park could quickly become negative. That is not something that Howe has really experienced during his reign as Newcastle United manager.

How many times have Newcastle United scored in the first 10 minutes this season?
There have been three occasions this season when Newcastle United have scored within the first 10 minutes, including the aforementioned Malick Thiaw header.

The other two instances saw Jacob Murphy score in the fourth minute against West Ham and Harvey Barnes find the net in the sixth minute away to Marseille.

On both occasions, Newcastle United failed to capitalise on their fast start and went on to lose.



https://www.geordiebootboys.com/opinion/eddie-howe-must-avoid-sjp-first-against-fulham-by-repeating-malick-thiaw-trick/

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Eddie Howe makes drastic Newcastle United decision as 6 changes made v Fulham - predicted XI
Newcastle United latest news: Eddie Howe's predicted Newcastle United starting XI for tonight's Carabao Cup quarter final clash against Fulham.

Newcastle United are back in action at St James' Park tonight, with a potential third Carabao Cup semi-final in four seasons just 90 minutes away.

Fulham, the team they beat 2-1 on Tyneside in October, are their opponents this evening. Marco Silva's side defeated Burnley on Saturday and, despite already tasting defeat on Tyneside this season, will be confident that they can leave the north east having secured a place in the final four of the Carabao Cup.

As holders of the competition, though, Newcastle United will be desperate to avoid that outcome and will want to banish demons of their defeat to Sunderland at the weekend with a big win in front of their own fans.

Here, we take a look at the Newcastle United starting XI that Eddie Howe could name for tonight's Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Fulham.

Newcastle United predicted XI v Fulham

GK: Aaron Ramsdale
Ramsdale has played in the previous two Carabao Cup rounds and will likely be given the nod again tonight.

RB: Tino Livramento
With no obvious alternative, Livramento will be asked to go again tonight by his head coach.

CB: Fabian Schar
Injury to Dan Burn and questions over Sven Botman's fitness could give Schar another chance to impress from the off. He netted in the win over Spurs last time out in this competition.

CB: Malick Thiaw
Like many of his fellow defenders, a lack of options at Howe's disposal will likely mean Thiaw is asked to start again tonight.

LB: Lewis Hall
Hall was one of few players that left the Stadium of Light on Sunday having put in a solid performance. He will be keen to vastly improve on that tonight, though, and drive his team to another semi-final.

CM: Jacob Ramsey
Ramsey was an unused substitute at the weekend on yet another frustrating afternoon for the former Aston Villa man. Hopefully he is given a chance to impress soon and he can grasp that opportunity when presented.

CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Guimaraes stated on Sunday that his team have to put that performance right when they face Fulham - the side he netted a late winner against back in October. The Brazilian has the chance to lead his side to another Carabao Cup final four.

CM: Joelinton
Joelinton hasn't been at his best recently and wasn't used by Howe at all on Sunday. He will want to prove a point if given a chance to start at St James' Park tonight.

RW: Jacob Murphy
Anthony Elanga failed to take his chance on Sunday and it's likely that Murphy will be given an opportunity to impress.

ST: Yoane Wissa
Is this the time for Wissa to make his first Newcastle United start? If Nick Woltemade can be given a rest, then it may be the perfect time to introduce Wissa from the off.

Barnes looked Newcastle's most dangerous attacking outlet on Sunday and may feel hard done by to not have started on Wearside. That could change this evening.



https://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/eddie-howe-newcastle-united-fulham-predicted-xi-5443287

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Another Fulham fan here and just as I am about to leave and get my flight to Newcastle...
Another Fulham fan here.

I come in peace.

I saw the article on The Mag yesterday (Tuesday 16 December) from my fellow Fulham fan, Dusseldorf based Edward.

Now before I leave to catch my flight from London to Newcastle for tonight's cup match, I too would like to make a comment on our lack of support for the match tonight.

As a 58 season man , like others I have had to endure many away matches nowadays where I have to also spend the night, this doesn't come cheap, as I am sure many Mags know.

We have just had an away at Burnley with no trains home, I cannot travel on long coach trips due to arthritis in my back, so it's train or plane for me.

I think a lot of clubs' fans who are derisory towards " little" Fulham are very unfair, unlike big clubs like yourselves, we are surrounded by pro football clubs including our much hated nearest neighbours, who unfortunately have been very successful in recent years.

It is very difficult to have a large fan base, when only in West London itself, there are so many clubs extremely close together.

So please bear this in mind you Geordies when you mention our fan base, we can't all raise or even hold as many fans as others.

We love our Cottage ground and club as much as you people do yours, believe me.

Good luck, but not tonight of course.



https://www.themag.co.uk/2025/12/another-fulham-fan-here-and-just-as-i-am-about-to-leave-and-get-my-flight-to-newcastle-newcstle-united/

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Newcastle United's toughest test vs Fulham will come in an area that is a concern for Eddie Howe
Newcastle United are in cup action tonight against Fulham, and Eddie Howe must surely be sweating over the fact the Cottagers are strongest in one key area that his team struggle in.

After the disastrous showing against Sunderland over the weekend, Newcastle United have a lot of making up to do for the fans who show up at St. James' Park on Wednesday.

Eddie Howe was criticised at the weekend for his team selection and the fact his side looked overawed by the Black Cats, and he cannot afford for the same to happen again this week.

Newcastle need to start fast against Fulham and get the crowd on side. However, there's one huge battle that, on the basis of what we've seen lately, may be a struggle for the Magpies to get on top of.

Midfield battle will be key against Fulham
You only have to look at Fulham's recent results to see that they are more than capable of hurting teams. Anyone who can score four goals past Man City deserves respect, that's for sure.

What's interesting about those games, though, is the source of the goals. Harry Wilson has scored three in his last four games; Emile Smith Rowe has a couple; the likes of Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, and Kenny Tete have also chipped in.

Clearly, Fulham have goals in them from all over the pitch, but it's those midfielders – Wilson and Smith Rowe – that I think Newcastle need to pay extra attention to.

They are the kind of players who can control the tempo of a game, dominate possession, and make things happen. Put simply, Newcastle cannot let them. That's easier said than done, though.

How does Eddie Howe get his midfield balance right?
The problem for Eddie Howe is Newcastle's midfield has been out of sorts all season. While Bruno Guimaraes has found some passion and fire in his recent performances, we've seen question marks over Sandro Tonali of late and Joelinton has been criticised, too.

Lewis Miley coming into the fold more has been a breath of fresh air, and we'd expect him to start again versus Fulham.

What Newcastle really need is someone who will take control of the match and influence the flow for them, and Bruno is the only one who seems capable of doing that at the moment.

Unless Newcastle are well organised in the middle, this great opportunity to progress in the cup will be thrown away. Howe must get his line-up spot on against Fulham, and at the heart of that is choosing his midfield trio.



https://www.geordiebootboys.com/opinion/newcastle-uniteds-toughest-test-vs-fulham-will-come-in-an-area-that-is-a-concern-for-eddie-howe/

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Fighting talk - Marco Silva backing Fulham to 'make a statement' against Newcastle United
Newcastle United face a stern test against Fulham tonight - just days after losing to bitter rivals Sunderland.

Marco Silva has not held back on how motivated Fulham are to win the Carabao Cup this season.

And in a confident pre-match message, he has backed his team to become the first in the club's history to win a major trophy. Newcastle United welcome the Cottagers to St James' Park tonight for a Carabao Cup quarter-final.

Fulham won 2-1 on Tyneside last season in the Premier League to give them confidence ahead of the game. With the Magpies also reeling from a Tyne-Wear derby defeat, Silva's men will fancy their chances of stunning the home crowd into silence.

'A big game' - Marco Silva
Speaking to reporters at his pre-match press conference, Fulham boss Silva sent an ambitious message that his squad mean business in the Carabao Cup. He said: "It's a big game. From the first moment of this competition, I've been saying that we aim high. Now that we are playing quarter-finals, with the chance to be in the semi-finals, we are not going to hide ourselves.

"We go to play the game with the full ambition that we can be in the semi-finals, because it's our aim, it's our ambition to be there. We play against a tough side - we have been very strong against them, like they have been against us. The games have been very competitive against each other recently.

"Probably one of the toughest places to play in this country but, at the same time, probably one of the best places to play football and to enjoy a football match in this country as well. And we have to go full of ambition that the semi-finals are there for one team to take, and let's hope it can be ourselves."

Marco Silva on 'realistic' aim
Founded in 1879, Fulham are London's oldest club but, astonishingly, have never lifted a major honour. Silva recognised that the title is out of reach but believes the Cottagers can attack the domestic cups.

"Nothing is impossible in football, but we have to be realistic," he added. "The best way to achieve something, the cups are the way. And we have been trying to create this mentality inside the club, and because of that we did achieve, for the first time ever, semi-finals two years ago in this competition.

"Last season, the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. And we want to go again. Let's go to play each stage of the competition with full ambition. Of course, silverware is always in our mind. Such a historic club, that doesn't have a title in this type of competitions, it's something that if you can achieve, you can imagine how the fans are going to feel, and how we can really put a statement in this football club."



https://www.newcastleworld.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/newcastle-united-news-fulham-5446072

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Fulham star Ryan Sessegnon names West Ham United defender he hates playing against
Fulham ace Ryan Sessegnon has issued an honest admission about a West Ham defender he hates playing against.

The 25-year-old plays in a plethora of positions for the Cottagers, including left-back, wing-back and left-wing as well.

Due to this, he finds himself in the final third more often than not, and that is when he encountered a West Ham United defender, whom he found it hard to get past.

Ryan Sessegnon shares why Aaron Wan-Bissaka is hard to play against
Sessegnon made a reference to a game in which he played on the left wing and came up against Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

The DR Congo international was the right-back and by what the Fulham player is saying, had a good outing against them.

The English defender claims that Wan-Bissaka did not give him any space all game and was very tight on him.

The West Ham right-back is known for his defensive abilities and he's also quick, so he does not let too many players run in behind him.

In his view, it was due to the Hammers' full-back that Fulham lost the game.

Sessegnon told One on One from Sky Sports: "I was playing on left wing. I was against Aaron Wan-Bissaka. And obviously, he is known for slide tackling.

"He wasn't giving me a yard. The whole game was really tight on me. But it was difficult.

"And then we obviously lost the game. And you go from there and then the next game is Tottenham away. And it's like another level again."

How can West Ham deal with Wan-Bissaka's absence?
It is certainly going to be difficult for Nuno to deal with Wan-Bissaka's absence in the coming weeks.

The 28-year-old is away on international duty with DR Congo at the Africa Cup of Nations.

His return will hinge on when and if Congo get eliminated from the competition, and in case they don't, he will be back in the third week of January.

Against Manchester City on Saturday, Nuno is likely to deploy Kyle Walker-Peters as either a right-back or a wing-back.

With El Hadji Malick Diouf also not available, it could be time for Ollie Scarles to get a regular run of games.

The AFCON will give both Walker-Peters and Scarles a chance to prove to Nuno why they deserve to be getting more minutes than they currently are.



https://www.hammers.news/news/fulham-star-ryan-sessegnon-names-west-ham-united-defender-he-hates-playing-against/

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Man Utd told to sign Fulham star after Liverpool missed out in summer window
John Arne Riise has advised Manchester United to sign Antonee Robinson, believing the Fulham star could 'thrive' at Old Trafford.

Former Liverpool and Fulham left-back Riise was 'quite sure' that the Reds were going to make a bid for Robinson in the summer transfer window.

But an approach wasn't made and Arne Slot's side subsequently missed out on the 28-year-old, who Riise says would've suited Liverpool 'perfectly'.

Riise is a huge fan of Fulham left-back Robinson, and ahead of the January transfer window, the Norwegian feels the United States international would now be very much open to joining the Red Devils.

'I was quite sure that Liverpool was going to go for Antonee Robinson in the summer because he's a full-back that I think will suit Liverpool perfectly,' Riise told Casinostugan.

'I think he will go when the chance to move to a bigger club arises. I would love for him to stay at Fulham and keep helping Fulham take steps forward, but football is like that, you know.

'The best players will get picked up by the big clubs. He's one of the left-backs that I really want to see get back to 100 per cent shape and show what he can do.

'Could he thrive at Man Utd? Sadly, yes. I know Fulham fans also think the same thing even though they want the players to stay at the club.

'Fans are realistic, they know how it is. Players want to take steps forward, and if the club doesn't do that, then they will go.

'Like I said, if Man Utd come for him, how can he say no? It's just hard.'

Robinson has been at Fulham since 2020, with the west London club paying just £2m to sign him from Wigan Athletic.

He shined in the Premier League last season with 10 assists across 36 top-flight games for Marco Silva's side.

Earlier this year, Robinson dismissed speculation linking him with a move to Liverpool, but did admit his friends and family all hail from the city.

'Transfer rumours and stuff like that, I try not to look at [them],' Robinson told ESPN.

'Especially like with the Liverpool one – all my friends and family are from Liverpool, so it's more of them messaging me than me seeing newspaper stuff.

'And I have to say, "Look, it's just, just a story in the paper and anyone who's doing well is going to get linked to a team".'

This season, Robinson has only played four Premier League matches due to a knee problem.

Robinson made his return from injury on Saturday, playing the full 90 minutes as Fulham defeated Burnley at Turf Moor.



https://metro.co.uk/2025/12/17/man-utd-told-sign-fulham-star-liverpool-missed-summer-window-25555091/?ito=newsnow-feed

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Yoane Wissa to start? Newcastle United predicted starting XI v Fulham - five changes
Yoane Wissa to start? How Newcastle United are predicted to line-up against Fulham in the Carabao Cup.

It doesn't quite feel that way, but Newcastle United have the opportunity to reach another semi-final tonight.

A painful defeat to Tyne-Wear rivals Sunderland on Sunday has sparked an angry response from the Magpies' fanbase, and that has no doubt taken the shine off this evening's Carabao Cup quarter-final tie at home to Fulham.

That's the external mood. Internally, Eddie Howe wants to shut out the noise and focus on putting the derby defeat behind them.

"I understand it and expect it, but I can't get consumed by it," Howe said on the fan criticism. "I think that's the key thing. I think you know in a game like that, if you don't perform and you don't get a positive result, criticism is naturally going to follow, it's part of the industry that we're in.

"But then what you do with that, from my view, is the key thing. As I say, I'm aware of it, you know it's there, but you don't absorb yourself with it, you absorb yourself with the football and what we could do better and what we need to do better to help the players, not anything else to better performances on a more consistent basis."

"The beauty of football is you get another opportunity to focus on it really and I think that's a good thing for us after Sunday. It's a difficult game, it's a great opportunity for us though as you say to get to another semi-final of this competition and then change the feeling and the mood and then we'll have something positive to focus on.

"But if we think it's going to be easy and we think it's anything other than a very, very tough game, we've played Fulham already, we know their strengths and this will be a good challenge for us to recover from and to see where we are mentally."

Here's how Newcastle United predicted to line-up against Fulham:

1. GK: Aaron Ramsdale
Nick Pope is closing in on a return from injury but Ramsdale would have likely started anyway having played the two Carabao Cup games so far.

2. RB: Tino Livramento
A lack of depth at right-back is set to see Livramento start his eighth game in 26 days.

3. CB: Malick Thiaw
In an inconsistent season for Newcastle, Thiaw has been one of few consistent performers.

4. CB: Fabian Schar (in for Dan Burn)
Came on for the injured Dan Burn and is now set for a run in the side with Burn ruled out for the next four to six weeks.

5. LB: Lewis Hall
Burn's injury also means Newcastle are without a back-up left-back, therefore restricting their ability to rotate Hall.

6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Bruno was one of the few players to emerge with credit from the Sunderland defeat after calling the performance "a mess". Howe didn't agree.

7. CM: Lewis Miley
His recent performances warrant a run in the starting XI.

8. CM: Joe Willock (in for Sandro Tonali)
Willock played the final half hour against Sunderland and could start at home to Fulham.

9. RW: Jacob Murphy (in for Anthony Elanga)
Murphy has been nursing a knee injury, so hasn't started any of the last three games.

10. LW: Harvey Barnes (in for Anthony Gordon)
Could return to the starting XI in his favoured position after starting on the bench against Sunderland.

11. ST: Yoane Wissa (in for Nick Woltemade)
Would be Wissa's first start for the club, though he'd be unlikely to play 90 minutes having only just returned from three months out with a knee injury.




https://www.newcastleworld.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/yoane-wissa-newcastle-united-starting-xi-fulham-5446340

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Newcastle v Fulham preview ahead of this St James' Park Carabao Cup clash
Welcome to the Newcastle v Fulham preview.

Wednesday 17th December and an 8.15pm kick-off.

Newcastle United have the opportunity to make their third League Cup semi-final in just four seasons this Wednesday night, when welcoming Fulham to St James' Park.

As defending champions, the onus will be on the Toon to perpetuate our brilliant form in this competition.

Fulham have already been put to the sword once at St James' this season when an injury time strike from Bruno sealed a 2-1 victory, after an early Murphy goal had been cancelled out.

This match will be broadcast live on both ITV and Sky Sports, if the scores are level at full-time it will go straight to a penalty shootout.

Hopefully the Toon will be in the draw for the semi-final that takes place after our match finishes.

Form
The Toon have beaten Bradford City and Tottenham Hotspur (both at home) to reach this stage. Bradford were comfortably dispatched 4-1 with braces from Joelinton and Osula, whereas Spurs were seen off in a 2-0 victory courtesy of headed goals from Schar and Woltemade.

Fulham have beaten Bristol City, Cambridge United and Liverpool so far to make the quarter-final. They're yet to concede having beaten Bristol City 2-0 and Cambridge United 1-0, before the highlight of their campaign came in a 3-0 hammering of Liverpool.

Last time out
Let's not dwell on this one, Newcastle suffered a simply appalling 1-0 defeat away at arch-rivals Sunderland. An atrocious match of football was settled by a somewhat bizarre own goal when Woltemade buried a header past Ramsdale to gift the Mackems three points. We never looked like scoring in one of our worst ever Premier League derby displays.

Fulham went away to Burnley on Saturday and came away with a very credible 3-2 win. They took an early lead but were pegged back soon after. Despite this, they scored two more to go 3-1 up before Burnley scored a late consolation. This was a fine win for Fulham and helped ease some of their relegation fears after a difficult start to the season.

Stat attack!
-The Toon have only won three league cup quarter-finals in their history but two of those have come in the last three seasons.

-NUFC have been drawn at home in a League Cup quarter-final on four previous occasions, winning three.

-Newcastle have won seven of their last ten meetings with Fulham in all competitions.

Memorable match
Newcastle hosted Fulham in January 2004, knowing that a win would keep alive hopes of a top-four finish. The match was only five minutes old when Andy O'Brien turned in the box at the Leazes End to put United ahead and things were to get even better when Gary Speed buried a header from a Solano corner to double our advantage before half-time. The points were wrapped up at the start of the second half by an outrageous Robert goal that doesn't get talked about nearly enough. If Cantona, Zola or Bergkamp had done what Robert did then it, quite rightly, would have gone down as one of the all-time greatest Premier League goals. Solano chipped the ball into the danger zone and our Frenchman jumped to meet it, twisted midair and scored off his heel from a reverse overhead kick. I've never seen anything like it before or since. Three goals to the good, Newcastle sat back and conceded a late consolation but this was a well-deserved win and a great start to the year. Newcastle 3-1 Fulham.

Played for both

Alain Goma signed for Ruud Gullit in 1999 but soon found himself managed by Sir Bobby. He spent two years at Newcastle without many highlights. His one goal was an impressive header in a 3-1 win away at Middlesbrough. He signed for Fulham in 2001 and spent five years with the cottagers, helping them gain promotion to the Premier League.

Danny Guthrie signed for the Toon in 2008 and spent four years on Tyneside, enduring the low of relegation in 2009 to the high of a top five Premier League finish in 2012. He was an integral part of our promotion in 2010, netting five goals and providing thirteen assists as we won the championship. He played for Fulham on loan in 2015 but failed to find the net in six league appearances.

Aleksandar Mitrovic joined NUFC in 2015 and managed to get himself booked just a few seconds into his debut. Despite a fairly appalling disciplinary record, he managed to become something of a cult hero, scoring important goals. Including a volley in a 6-2 win at home to Norwich, an equaliser at home to the Mackems and a bullet header in a match with Tottenham, when he became only the sixth player in Premier League history to score, assist and be sent off in the same match. He spent three years at the Toon before signing for Fulham, where he scored ninety-seven league goals in a five year spell.

Managers
Eddie Howe after a 1-0 defeat away at the Mackems:

"That will sting for a long time. We know our performance was not what we needed it to be. Not defensively, we defended well. It was a game of few chances. Unfortunately, the one big moment goes against us, it was a bizarre moment but we weren't good enough to open them up. I am disappointed for the supporters and sorry for our performance, for a lack of goalmouth action and clinical attacking. It certainly wasn't a lack of effort. But the first sixty minutes I don't think we posed a threat at all. It wasn't the finest day for any of our front players. The openings were there, with a better decision or pass. The quality was not there in that phase of the game. The changes had a positive impact but we didn't work their goalkeeper anywhere near enough. We didn't sustain the pressure enough. Losing is a horrible feeling and this is painful."

Marco Silva after a 3-2 win away at Burnley:

"It's a difficult place to come. It doesn't matter if they're on a bad run. We know if you're on a bad run how much you want to change it. We were smart, the way we started the game. The reaction from them was what we expected. Many chances for both sides – much more than I like to see. Some mistakes. Football is like that sometimes. First half we scored goals in important moments. We gave them many chances when we shouldn't have. The three points were deserved from ourselves."

Charity
Newcastle United fans food bank will once again be collecting opposite the Gallowgate end and gratefully receiving food, money and toiletries for those in need. Of particular interest are non-perishable food and drink items (such as noodles, pasta, rice, canned food, soup, cereal, cordial, long life milk etc) as well as toiletries such as shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste and sanitary products. Please give whatever you can, any donation is very much appreciated.

For further info and/or to donate online go to Newcastle Foodbank

Prediction
This is an absolutely golden chance to make another League Cup semi-final. Newcastle will be red hot favourites for this one, especially with home advantage. The performance and result at the weekend were both abysmal but there's no time for a hangover, as we look to defend the title we won in such spectacular style in March. I think this will be a much closer match than most fans are anticipating but we will make the semi-final – just. Newcastle 1-1 Fulham (Toon to win on penalties).



https://www.themag.co.uk/2025/12/newcastle-v-fulham-preview-ahead-of-this-st-james-park-carabao-cup-clash/

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Need to know
Is Newcastle United vs Fulham on TV? How to watch Carabao Cup tie for free
Newcastle United are hosting Fulham in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup

Newcastle United vs Fulham TV channel, free live stream and kick-off info
    Kick-Off Time The quarter-final tie is scheduled for 8.15pm GMT on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. This slightly later kick-off time accommodates the live television broadcast schedule for the evening. with Manchester City vs Brentford kicking off at 7.30pm

    Venue The match will be played at St James' Park, giving Newcastle United the home advantage. A full house is expected as the Magpies look to secure another trip to Wembley.

    Free-to-Air TV In a major boost for fans, this match has been selected for live free-to-air coverage on ITV1. This means you do not need a paid subscription to watch the game on your television.

    Free Live Stream Viewers can also stream the action for free via ITVX, ITV's online streaming platform. You simply need to register for a free account to watch the match live on your mobile, tablet, or smart TV.

    Sky Sports Coverage For those who prefer Sky's presentation, the game will be also be broadcast on Sky Sports Premier League. Subscribers can watch the match here or stream it via the Sky Go app.

    Match Stakes This is a one-legged quarter-final, meaning a winner must be decided on the night. If the score is level after 90 minutes, the tie will go straight to a penalty shootout to determine who advances to the semi-finals.



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-carabao-cup-football-33060212

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Fulham make approach for Danilo move
Fulham will reportedly look to sign 24-year-old Brazilian midfielder Danilo from Botafogo, having submitted an enquiry for a move.

According to a report by Brazilian outlet Fogao Net, Danilo is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a holding midfielder next year. So, the 24-year-old Botafogo prospect has emerged as a target for the West London club.

Apart from Fulham, Brighton & Hove Albion are also keen on signing the Salvador-born midfielder, aiming to secure his services next year. The two Premier League clubs have submitted enquiries to the player's entourage, and Fulham failed to secure his services in the summer transfer window.

How has Danilo fared after returning to Brazil?
Danilo has established himself as one of the most dependable midfielders in his homeland since joining Botafogo from Nottingham Forest in a deal worth €22 million this past summer. A native of Salvador, the 24-year-old spent his formative years in Brazil and graduated from the youth division at Palmeiras. That helped him secure a move to Nottingham Forest, and he spent 30 months at the City Ground.

The Brazilian midfielder returned to his homeland a few months ago, and he has been solid in the middle of the park for the Botafogo. The player has made 17 appearances for Botafogo thus far while chipping in with one goal and four assists. Meanwhile, his exploits have piqued the attention of several well-known clubs, with Fulham among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

Premier League return on the horizon?
Fulham wanted to sign Danilo in the summer transfer window, but a deal failed to materialise. The continued interest makes sense, as Andreas Pereira's departure in the summer transfer window has created a vacancy in the midfield unit at the West London club.

Several candidates, including Soungoutou Magassa, have thus emerged on Fulham's radar, with Danilo also a viable target. The latest report has revealed that the Cottagers have submitted an enquiry after contacting the player's entourage to discuss a possible move.

Apart from Fulham, Brighton & Hove Albion are also keen on signing the Salvador native, aiming to secure his services next year. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the 24-year-old Brazilian midfielder.




https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2025/12/17/fulham-make-approach-for-danilo-move/

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Early boost for Newcastle as Fulham lose three more players for cup quarter-final
Heading into another hectic period between now and the new year, it's fair to say our current injury crisis could not have come at a much worse time.

Dan Burn's rib injury sustained at the Stadium of Light is just the latest in a growing list of absentees Eddie Howe will have to work without across each of the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cup competitions, with Botman, Trippier, Krafth, Osula and Pope also sidelined.

One boost, however, is that DR Congo's Yoane Wissa will miss the African Cup of Nations, which brings us to a few issues in Fulham's squad now that three of Marco Silva's key men have left to represent their country.

Key Fulham trio to miss out
Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze will each be missing from the Fulham squad after they were all called up by Nigeria, whose tournament begins next Tuesday against Tanzania.

It's a mini boost to our chances of making the semi-finals, as all three players have played a key role at both ends of the pitch in recent weeks, with Bassey their physically dominant centre-back, Iwobi impressing in midfield and winger Chukwueze grabbing a goal or an assist in four of Fulham's last five league games.

We're all too familiar with what Chukwueze can do to us in cup competition as well, as the former AC Milan star was the architect behind our Champions League exit two seasons ago as he scored late at St James' Park.

The visitors will also be without striker Rodrigo Muniz and the versatile Ryan Sessegnon. Fullback Antonee Robinson meanwhile has only just recently returned, and questions will be asked of Raul Jimenez's own fitness and ability to play multiple games a week at 34.

Newcastle's injury issues
Howe will be needing a huge shift from the quartet of Lewis Hall, Fabian Schar, Malick Thiaw and Tino Livramento over the next few weeks, as they are our only fit senior defenders right now.

The injury to the aforementioned Burn, coupled with Sven Botman, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth also suffering with their own fitness concerns has left us with a paper thin squad once again.

Nick Pope remains a doubt to return between the sticks in time for the midweek game, though he'll no doubt be pushing to return for the following games against Chelsea and Manchester United.

Howe has previously admitted that he can't yet afford Wissa 90 minutes so soon after his return from injury, whilst Nick Woltemade is clearly fatigued from being the sole striker option for so long: so it begs the question, just when Will Osula return from his reported ankle injury?

The young Dane has been tenuously linked with a move to the Bundesliga in January, but these midweek games against Premier League opposition are exactly when we need a player of his calibre ready and available.



https://www.nufcblog.co.uk/2025/12/17/early-boost-for-newcastle-as-fulham-lose-three-more-players-for-cup-quarter-final/

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Leeds United, Everton and Fulham face battle for Chelsea's Tyrique George with two more clubs 'in the picture'
Leeds United could reportedly face competition from overseas if they pursue Chelsea winger Tyrique George.

The 19-year-old has featured regularly in cup competitions for the Blues this term, although Premier League opportunities have proven limited.

His lack of league action has fuelled transfer speculation and a raft of clubs have been linked with the England youth international.

With the January transfer window approaching, talk of a potential move for the electric wideman is not dying down.

Tyrique George latest
Leeds are among those to have been credited with interest and are one of several Premier League clubs supposedly on his trail.

Everton, Fulham and Crystal Palace have been named as admirers, as have Championship outfit Southampton.

According to CaughtOffside, Italian giants Roma and German outfit RB Leipzig are also in the race to secure his signature.

RB Leipzig have a penchant for blooding young talent and this reputation could prove helpful in negotiations.

Roma, meanwhile, reportedly view George as a long-term project who could prosper in Serie A. It has been claimed creative financial solutions are being explored to make a deal viable for I Giallorossi.

Reports have indicated George could look to depart permanently as he seeks regular first-team football.

Another Chelsea link
George is not the only Chelsea player to have been mooted as a potential January option for Leeds, who have been linked with a clutch of wingers.

Also said to be in the club's sights is the vastly experienced Raheem Sterling, who has been frozen out of the Blues fold despite his pedigree.

An 82-cap England international, Sterling lifted the Premier League title on four occasions during his Manchester City days and has also represented Liverpool and Arsenal.

It now remains to be seen whether Leeds end up doing any business with Chelsea in the January transfer window.

The last deal completed between the clubs saw Ethan Ampadu swap Stamford Bridge for Elland Road in the summer of 2023. He has since become a key figure for the Whites and now serves as captain.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united-transfer-news-tyrique-george-chelsea-everton-fulham-5447063