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Wednesday Fulham Stuff (16/08/17)...

Started by WhiteJC, August 16, 2017, 06:57:29 AM

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WhiteJC

 
Results













Tuesday
Barnsley
2 - 1 Nottm Forest
Birmingham
0 - 0 Bolton
Brentford
2 - 2 Bristol City
Cardiff
2 - 0 Sheff Utd
Derby
1 - 0 Preston NE
Hull
2 - 3 Wolves
Leeds
0 - 0 Fulham
Middlesborough
2 - 0 Burlton
Millwall
3 - 4 Ipswich
Reading
2 - 1 Aston Villa

WhiteJC

 
Cardiff City team news: Three changes as Joe Bennett is left out amid links with Fulham move; Tomlin returns

Bennett has been linked with a move to Craven Cottage this summer and has now been left out of Neil Warnock's starting XI

Cardiff City boss Neil Warnock has made three changes for the visit of Sheffield United at the Cardiff City Stadium tonight.

Bruno Manga is preferred ahead of Lee Peltier at right back, with the latter dropping to the bench.

Interestingly, Joe Bennett does not make the matchday squad, with Jazz Richards taking his place at left back.

Recent speculation has linked the the 27-year-old with a move to Championship rivals Fulham, with some reports even going so far as to suggest he has already held talks with Slavisa Jokanovic's side.



He was withdraw with an injury during the Bluebirds' sensational win over Bennett's former club Aston Villa at the weekend, but his omission tonight is likely to add fuel to speculation surrounding his future in the Welsh capital.

Meanwhile, playmaker Lee Tomlin is back in the side after sitting on the bench for that 3-0 drubbing of the Villlans, taking the place of Frenchman Loic Damour.

Chris Wilder keeps an unchanged Sheffield United side from the one that suffered their first defeat to Middlesbrough at the weekend.

Line-ups in full:

Cardiff City Etheridge; Manga, Bamba, Morrison Richards; Gunnarsson, Ralls, Tomlin, Mendez-Laing, Hoilett; Johore

Subs: Murphy, Peltier, Ward, Pilkington, Halford, Damour, Kennedy

Sheffield United Blackman; Basham, Stearman, O'Connell, Freeman; Coutts, Carruthers, Fleck, Stevens; Sharp, Clarke

Subs: Eastwood, Lundstrum, Wright, Duffy, Lafferty, Evans, Brooks



http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/cardiff-city-team-news-three-13481861

WhiteJC

 
Pompey question: Will you attend the Fulham under-21s Checkatrade Trophy game?

Pompey take on Fulham under-21s in the Checkatrade Trophy tomorrow night (7.45pm)

The competition has been the subject of fans boycotting games in seasons gone by. And chief executive Mark Catlin is also a long-time critic of the tournament, but he accepts the democratic majority vote after 66.6 per cent of clubs to vote in favour of retaining the current format with amendments in May. On our Facebook page Portsmouth FC – The News we asked fans if they will be attending the match against Fulham under-21s. Here's what they had to say...

Andy Harris
It's a pointless competition that the club has to play in. Fans are venting there frustrations but refusing to go to the games until the EFL or FA see common sense and abandon this format due to lack of interest.

Graham Underwood
Waste of time. Too many tin pot trophies and there should only be the League Cup and FA Cup.

Christopher Elston
Do not agree with the format and the bias to Premiership and Championship teams.

Matt Marsh
I understand the boycott as the competition is a bit of a joke but is it not just punishing the club. I'd imagine they now have to play these games at a loss because full stewarding and policing will still be required!

Darren Cook
I'm not paying £10 for a match against a reserve side and I would take my son if I thought he would get any enjoyment out of a empty ground.

Dan Curtis
Why are people boycotting this it's a potential trophy in my books you should want to win every tournament you enter.

Adrian Gough
Pompey voted AGAINST the current format. Support the club by NOT GOING!!

Steve Farmer
Don't wanna watch reserves. Scrap the trophy

Rob Emery
Joke competition with joke rules.




Read more at: http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/sport/football/pompey/pompey-question-will-you-attend-the-fulham-under-21s-checkatrade-trophy-game-1-8104663


WhiteJC

 
Fulham Targeting This Ligue 1 Attacking Fullback: Just What They Need?


Fulham have been looking forward to making their next season a better one than the last term, as they got knocked out in the semi-final of the Championship playoffs by Reading after finishing in the sixth position on the league table. The Whites are looking to make amends for their mistakes in the last term and field a strong enough team this season so that all the loopholes can be eradicated.

The West London club have been eyeing a number of players for their team in the summer, and have been able to identify a few among them as their potential transfer targets. One name, which is right on the top of the list for the Whites, is that of the French defender Maxime Poundje, who is currently playing for the French Ligue 1 club, Bordeaux.

The 24-year-old is one of the highly regarded players in the French Ligue 1 and has been performing consistently for his current club. He arrived at the club in the year 2011 and has gradually become an integral part of the French outfit. He has now cemented his place in their backline and has been identified as one of the main players in the team to stabilize the defence as well as initiate attack on the opposition through the wings.


The French international is known for his darting runs down the wing on the left-hand side and has the ability to deliver crucial passes and crosses into the attacking third, helping his teammates to score goals and keep his team in advantage. He also has the ability to score long range screamers from way outside the box, that can cause problems for the opposition goalkeeper. His physical presence is good enough to fend off his opponents from getting into the danger and score against his team.

Fulham have been looking a bit weak in the defensive area in the last term and their coach Slavisa Jokanovic has been looking to make a few changes in the lineup to strengthen the backline for the new season. He has his eyes on the French left back for some time now and is looking to bring him in for the new season, which has already commenced.

A number of other Championship clubs are also rumoured to have their eyes on Poundje. However, Fulham looks to be in pole position to make a bid for the player as the next inclusion to the side, which is aiming to win the Championship this term and head back into the Premier League.



http://the4thofficial.net/2017/08/fulham-targeting-ligue-1-attacking-fullback-just-need/

WhiteJC

 
Tottenham have bid rejected for Sessegnon

Tottenham have had a bid rejected for Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon, which could put the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City on alert.

Sessegnon is one of the most highly-rated talents in England, having broke through at Fulham last season. According to the Mirror, Spurs have had a £25m bid rejected for the left-back, a sign that Fulham aren't about to let him go cheaply.

Sessegnon has been linked with every top club in England after making 30 appearances and scoring seven times for Fulham last season at just the age of 16.

Able to play left-back but also on the left-wing, he's drawn comparisons with Gareth Bale. Some have already predicted that Sessegnon will play further up the pitch later in his career.

He capped off a successful season by helping the England U19 team win the U19 European Championships. He was joint top-scorer in the competition with three goals.

Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City are also said to be interested. Knowing this, Fulham can freely increase the asking price to ridiculous proportions.

Given how sparse good English talent is, it won't be long until someone pays that ridiculous fee. Sessegnon has recently signed a new contract with Fulham and looks set for another season in the Championship.



http://dailycannon.com/2017/08/tottenham-have-bid-rejected-for-sessegnon/

WhiteJC

 
Fulham held to tense goalless draw by Leeds United

Leeds 0 Fulham 0


Fulham's winless run in Championship matches stretched to five games after a goalless draw at Elland Road.

Summer signing Ibrahima Cisse hit the woodwork in the first half, on his first league start for the Whites, who lost Lucas Piazon to injury.

Fulham keeper David Button did well to deny Chris Wood, while his opposite number Felix Wiedwald made a crucial save from Sone Aluko late on.

The result means Slavisa Jokanovic's side have opened the season with three successive draws.

Cisse, one of four changes to the Fulham side which held Reading 1-1 on Saturday, rattled the post from outside the box on 18 minutes.

After a slow start from the hosts, Leeds gradually clawed their way into the game but when Wood went through, Button vitally got a hand to the ball.

Already missing captain Tom Cairney and goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli to injury, and Tomas Kalas to suspension, Fulham were further depleted when Chelsea loanee Piazon limped off 10 minutes before the break.

A tense second half only produced clear-cut chances towards the end. Samuel Saiz fired narrowly wide for the hosts, while at the other end, Aluko – sent clear by Stefan Johansen – could not beat Wiedwald.

Neeskens Kebano went close in injury time but the Whites were unable to break the deadlock in a tight game.

Fulham: Button; Fredericks, Odoi, Ream, R. Sessegnon; Cisse, McDonald, Johansen; Piazon (Kebano 35), Aluko, Kamara (Norwood 77).
Subs not used: Rodak, S. Sessegnon, Djalo, Edun, Woodrow.




http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-held-to-tense-goalless-draw-by-leeds-united


WhiteJC

 
Head Coach Reaction

Head Coach Slaviša Jokanović says a point is a fair result following the goalless draw with Leeds United on Tuesday night.

Ibrahima Cisse hit the post in the first-half and Sone Aluko went one-on-one with Leeds goalkeeper Felix Wiedwald but failed to come up trumps.

Both teams struggled trouble the opposition goal with both sides registering a solitary shot on target each, and for this reason Jokanović thinks a draw is a fair result.

"In this game we showed different faces", said the Fulham Head Coach.

"Today we opened the game very well and we created some chances and in the end we had some problems at set pieces which we resolved well.

"The second-half started better, they pressed us more on the ball and toward the end of the game I decided to put one more player on who could get some more control in the game because then if we created chances we could win the game.

"At the end this result can be fair and a positive is that we are in the beginning of the Championship without losing any games.

"We weren't clinical in the important moments, we tried with power and with aggression to push us into scoring a goal.

"In the beginning and at the end of the game we missed some important chances and in the end we can say this result can be fair."


One negative from the game came when Lucas Piazon was carried off in the 35th minute after a hard challenge from Leeds defender Conor Shaughnessy.

Jokanović confirmed the Brazlian, who had scored a goal in each of his last two games, looks to have fractured his leg.

"It is a very bad injury and we are going to lose him for a long time," he said.

"We are so disappointed with the situation about Lucas Piazon, I expect he is going to recover soon and he will be available soon.

"I don't believe Lucas will come back with us on the bus, I don't know exactly if he is in hospital right now."

Fulham enjoyed large spells of control in the first-half but Leeds came out with a more aggressive style in the latter half of the game to see out a goalless draw. 

"Leeds, like Reading in the last game, were really aggressive and cut our actions strong.

"Sometimes in the Championship the limit is high and sometimes the limit is low, I don't know exactly what are the rules in this competition.

"We didn't adapt ourselves to be honest I missed a little bit of quality where we move the ball and definitely in the beginning of the second-half when they started to press us and we weren't comfortable with the ball.

"I missed this quality in this part of the game toward the end of the game because I didn't find another solution, I decided to put Olly (Norwood) on the pitch because we were so many times without the ball in this period of the game.

"We wanted to take a little bit more control of the game and in this period we created some chances.

"We weren't clinical at the end of the game and if you don't score the goal you can't complain about dropping points and thinking about three points."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/august/15/head-coach-reaction-leeds

WhiteJC

 
Leeds United 0 Fulham 0: Chances go begging in second successive stalemate at Elland Road


Chris Wood's shot is saved by David Button. Leeds United v Fulham FC. SkyBet Championship. Elland Road. 15 August 2017. Picture Bruce Rollinson

ELLAND ROAD witnessed its second goalless draw in the space of four days as Leeds United and Championship visitors Fulham both squandered chances as part of a Tuesday night 0-0 stalemate.

The post saved Leeds when Ibrahima Cisse let fly in the first half while United's Chris Wood and Fulham's Sone Aluko later squandered one-on-ones.


Pabl Hernandez goes down as Ryan Fredericks slides in. Leeds United v Fulham FC. SkyBet Championship. Elland Road. 15 August 2017. Picture Bruce Rollinson

The Cottagers looked full of pace and trickery from the off and Leeds had a narrow escape in the 12th minute when Stefan Johansen fired just wide from the edge of the box. From similar range, Aboubakar Kamara's fierce attempt was then deflected wide for a corner just two minutes later, from which Johansen again fired an effort the wrong side of Felix Wiedwald's left hand post. Fulham were then denied by the same post five minutes later when Ibrahima Cisse let fly with a delicious shot from the edge of the area that had Whites 'keeper Felix Wiedlwald beaten all ends up. Leeds were being outplayed but the Whites gradually got going with Pablo Hernandez and Samuel Saiz linking up well down the left hand side to raise the noise levels inside Elland Road. And Leeds were then handed a golden opportunity to take a 32nd-minute lead when a gem of a through ball from Gianni Alioski released Wood in acres of space one-on-one. But for the second game in succession the striker failed to beat an onrushing goalkeeper as Wood's attempt to dink the ball over David Button was thwarted as the custodian parried away the shot with an outstretched arm.

Wood then finished superbly ten minutes later after a gem of a cross from Samuel Saiz but the striker had already been flagged offside. The two sides continued to exchange blows at the start of the second half with Saiz looking particularly lively for the Whites. Leeds were beginning to turn the screw and Luke Ayling fired wide as a 59th-minute free-kick dropped invitingly in the Fulham box. United were then handed another good opportunity when Saiz was hauled down just outside of the area but Pablo Hernandez's low attempt was easily blocked by a long Fulham wall.

Wood then finished superbly ten minutes later after a gem of a cross from Samuel Saiz but the striker had already been flagged offside. The two sides continued to exchange blows at the start of the second half with Saiz looking particularly lively for the Whites. Leeds were beginning to turn the screw and Luke Ayling fired wide as a 59th-minute free-kick dropped invitingly in the Fulham box. United were then handed another good opportunity when Saiz was hauled down just outside of the area but Pablo Hernandez's low attempt was easily blocked by a long Fulham wall. The impressive Conor Shaughnessy then stood firm for a vital block to a dangerous Johansen shot at the other end before Saiz fired wide for Leeds from a counter. Then it was Fulham's turn to squander a one-one-one as Wiedwald produced a terrific save to keep out Aluko in a carbon copy chance of Wood's. Another fine tackle from Shaughnessy then averted danger as Neeskens Kebano raced clear before Leeds squandered a fine chance themselves as Phillips whipped a powerful effort from inside the area just wide. The Whites went even closer in the 89th minute when substitute Stuart Dallas smashed a low shot which was deflected inches wide of the left-hand post. Fulham's Kebano then went mightily close when blazing just over in the first minute of added time but despite a plethora of chances for both sides, a packed Elland Road had to settle for witnessing a second goalless draw in the space of four days.

Leeds United: Wiedwald, Ayling, Shaughnessy, Jansson, Anita, Phillips, O'Kane, Saiz (Dallas 82), Hernandez, Alioski (Roofe 63), Wood. Subs not used: Green, Borthwick-Jackson, Bridcutt, Klich, Ekuban Fulham: Button, Fredericks, Odoi, Ream, R Sessegnon, Cisse, McDonald, Johnasen, Aluko, Kamara (Norwood 76), Piazon (Kebano 35). Subs not used: Rodak, S Sessegnon, Djalo, Deun, Woodrow. Referee: Darren Bond. Attendance: 28,918.



Read more at: http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/leeds-united-0-fulham-0-chances-go-begging-in-second-successive-stalemate-at-elland-road-1-8704704

WhiteJC

 
Leeds 0-0 Fulham: Stalemate at Elland Road

Last season's play-off semi-finalists Fulham remain without a Sky Bet Championship win this season after sharing an entertaining goalless draw with Leeds at Elland Road.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side overturned an eight-point deficit in the final month of last season to take Leeds' top-six place but they are showing signs of a hangover at the start of this term.

Fulham dominated large parts of the first half but Chris Wood, the Championship's top goalscorer in 2016/17, saw the best chance saved by David Button on a one-on-one.

Sone Aluko and Neeskens Kebano were denied in similar situations in the second period and Leeds had their moments in a thrilling finale. The teams could not be separated, though, as United were forced to settle for back-to-back 0-0 draws in front of their own fans.

The previous four meetings between the sides had produced 1-1 draws, including last season's corresponding fixture in August when Wood's injury-time overhead kick rescued a point for Leeds.

The prolific striker continues to be linked with a move away from Elland Road but the most pressing issue for United with kick-off approaching was their lack of options at the back.

Leeds went into the campaign with only three recognised centre-backs and were forced to pair young midfielder Conor Shaughnessy with Pontus Jansson in the absence of Matthew Pennington and Liam Cooper.

Tom Cairney was a notable absentee for Fulham, a player who had netted in each of his last four appearances against the club that let him go as a 16-year-old.

The visitors were also without the suspended Tomas Kalas and suffered an early scare when fellow defender Tim Ream received lengthy treatment on a facial injury. The American returned to the field in time to see Stefan Johansen fire a 20-yard drive wide.

Aboubakar Kamara saw an effort deflect behind before Ibrahima Cisse struck the base of the post as the slick away side continued to dominate.

Spanish playmakers Pablo Hernandez and Samuel Saiz lifted the home crowd and they were on their feet when Wood raced clean through from Ezgjan Alioski's well-weighted ball, only for Button to comfortably save his attempted chip.

Fulham lost Lucas Piazon to injury and were then rescued by the offside flag as Wood volleyed home after taking Saiz's cross down on his chest.

The second half had threatened to burst into life but was still simmering when Kemar Roofe came on to replace Alioski just after the hour mark. Hernandez wasted a good opportunity from a free-kick in a central position and Fulham captain Aluko dragged a shot wide as both sides pushed for a winner.

Kebano had a penalty appeal waved away by referee Darren Bond before Saiz shot wide at the end of a Leeds counter-attack.

he game had become stretched with Fulham the next side to miss an opportunity, a golden one as Aluko was denied by Felix Wiedwald after being played in by Johansen. Fulham played all but the opening minute of their weekend game at Reading with 10 men but there was no sign of fatigue as they went toe to toe with Leeds in the closing stages.

Only a last-ditch Shaughnessy tackle prevented Kebano from getting a shot in on goal after he was sent clean through while, at the other end, Kalvin Phillips scuffed an effort wide and a Stuart Dallas cross only narrowly evaded Wood in an eventful finish.

The managers
Thomas Christiansen: "It's another clean sheet and I believe the team played a very good game. We have to recognise that we played against one of the best teams in this league. They started very well and we were not fast enough.

"At the end of the first half we controlled the game a bit more and in the second we deserved more. We need to be a bit more dangerous up front but at the end I'm satisfied with that result."

Slavisa Jokanovic: "It's a very bad injury and we will lose him (Piazon) for a long time. It's not a question about complaining - it can be bad luck or a tackle outside of the normal - but I'm really disappointed with what I heard from one of the referees who explained, 'This is English football and this is completely legal'.

"I am a 48-year-old man and I've never heard an ugly answer like I heard today in this stadium. We are so disappointed for this situation about Lucas Piazon. I believe he broke the fibula or broke the leg."



http://www.skysports.com/football/leeds-vs-fulham/374649


WhiteJC

 
Fulham set to sign Liverpool youngster


Fulham are on the brink of signing Liverpool youngster Sheyi Ojo, according to the Liverpool Echo.

The 20-year-old winger was sought after by a number of clubs in the Championship including Aston Villa, Derby County and Middlesborough but it seems that Fulham have won the race to secure his services.

Ojo was part of the brilliant England Under-20 squad that won the World Cup in South Korea in June this year. With Liverpool well stocked in the wide areas with Sadio Mane, Adam Lallana and new summer signing Mohamed Salah, manager Jurgen Klopp believes that the youngster would benefit from regular playing time to mature as a footballer.

The Liverpool academy graduate joined the club's youth set up as a 14-year-old back in 2011 from MK Dons. Ojo has represented England in all youth levels from the Under-16s to the Under-20s. He has had previous loan spells at Wigan Athletic and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Fulham have held talks with the player's representatives in London last week and a deal to bring him to Craven Cottage could be announced shortly.

Ojo's progress was stagnated last year due to a stress fracture in his back but the player looks to have recovered well from the setback and raring to deliver for the Cottagers.



http://sportslens.com/fulham-set-to-sign-liverpool-youngster/214598/

WhiteJC

 
Sheffield Wednesday Tickets

After a busy week on the road, Fulham return to Craven Cottage this Saturday 19th August as Sheffield Wednesday visit SW6 (kick-off 3pm).

The Whites will be looking to pick up all three points in our second home game of the 17/18 campaign, and you can be there to watch all the action with tickets now on General Sale.

Secure your seat today with prices starting from £30 adults and £15 juniors.

Tickets are available to purchase online now, by phone on 0203 871 0810 (opt. 1) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

COYW!

Ticket Office open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2017/august/15/sheffield-wednesday-tickets

WhiteJC

 
Noel Whelan gives instant reaction to Leeds United's 0-0 draw with Fulham

Leeds United drew 0-0 against Fulham.

Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has given his verdict on Leeds United's performance against Fulham.

Whelan says he believes the Whites were good value for their draw, a second successive 0-0 at Elland Road.

It was a disappointing result but Leeds remain unbeaten and Whelan believes they were simply unlucky not to take all three points.

He told BBC Radio Leeds: "I'm really pleased with what I've seen this evening, if they can maintain level of performance, this season is there for us."

Leeds currently have five points but sit inside the top six places in the Championship.

Chris Wood had a goal disallowed for offside in the first half, although Fulham had chances themselves to win it, with Leeds goalkeeper Felix Wiedwald pulling off an impressive late save.

Only three teams have 100 per cent records in the Championship after three games, Ipswich, Wolves and Cardiff.

Two goalless draws are disappointing for Leeds especially after scoring seven goals in their first two league and cup games of the season, and Thomas Christiansen will have to work out how to get the team firing ahead of their trip to Siunderland this weekend.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/08/15/noel-whelan-gives-instant-reaction-to-leeds-uniteds-0-0-draw/


WhiteJC

 
Leeds United 0 - 0 Fulham


Fulham midfielder Ibrahima Cisse struck the post in the first half

Leeds and Fulham maintained their unbeaten starts to the season with a hard-fought draw at Elland Road.

Fulham had the better of the first half with Aboubakar Kamara's going close and Ibrahima Cisse striking the base of the post with a drive from 25 yards.

David Button saved one-on-one from Chris Wood before Leeds' Felix Wiedwald made a similar stop from Sone Aluko.

Kalvin Phillips and Wood missed late chances for Leeds as the sides played out a fifth successive league draw.

Leeds and Fulham had drawn their previous four league games by a 1-1 scoreline, but Wood and Aluko both spurned great chances for their sides in a stalemate.

The visitors dominated the opening stages, but could not beat Rob Green's replacement Wiedwald in goal as Stefan Johansen, Kamara and Cisse were all off target.

Leeds responded after the break but Phillips fired wide and Wood could not get on the end of a late Stuart Dallas cross, as Thomas Christiansen's side drew a blank for the second time in four days.

Leeds boss Thomas Christiansen:
"It's another clean sheet and I believe the team played a very good game.

"We have to recognise that we played against one of the best teams in this league. They started very well and we were not fast enough.

"At the end of the first half we controlled the game a bit more and in the second we deserved more.

"We need to be a bit more dangerous up front but at the end I'm satisfied with that result."

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic:
"We showed different faces.

"We opened the game very well and created chances but they pressed us better at the start of the second half and the result was fair at the end.

"It's positive that we haven't lost any games but it's a bad thing we haven't won any games in the start of the season."



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/40858332

WhiteJC

 
Jokanovic confirms Piazon broken leg

Fulham's Lucas Piazon broke his leg in his side's 0-0 draw at Leeds United on Tuesday, Whites boss Slavisa Jokanovic confirmed.

The on-loan Chelsea winger came off after 35 minutes following a fair tackle by Leeds' Conor Shaughnessy.

Jokanovic revealed in his post-match press conference that the Brazilian had suffered a broken fibula.

Piazon rejoined Fulham on loan in the summer, having also spent last season at Craven Cottage.

He scored six goals in 33 games for the Whites in 2016-17 and grabbed another in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Reading.



http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/chelsea-loanee-piazon-breaks-leg-leeds-united-wls-football

WhiteJC

 
Lucas Piazon: Fulham's on-loan midfielder breaks leg in draw at Leeds


Lucas Piazon has scored goals in both of his appearances for Fulham this season before injury struck

Fulham's on-loan midfielder Lucas Piazon suffered a broken leg in Tuesday's 0-0 draw at Leeds.

Piazon, 23, was substituted in the 35th minute at Elland Road after a challenge by defender Conor Shaughnessy.

The Brazilian is on loan at Fulham from Chelsea for a second season, having played 33 times for the club last term.

"We have probably lost Lucas Piazon because we believe it is a bad injury," Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic told BBC Radio London.

Speaking in a press conference after the match, Jokanovic continued: "It's not a question about complaining - it can be bad luck or a tackle outside of the normal - but I'm really disappointed with what I heard from one of the referees who explained: 'This is English football and this is completely legal'.

"I am a 48-year-old man and I've never heard an ugly answer like I heard in this stadium."

When asked to clarify who he was referring to, Jokanovic said: "I don't see so well. I'm a little bit disappointed that I hear around me something so ugly."

It is the second time Piazon has suffered a serious injury this year, having broken his jaw while playing for Fulham against Cardiff in February.



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/40943788


WhiteJC

 
Neil Warnock reveals he's tabled bid for surprise new signing, as Joe Bennett enters Fulham talks

Warnock believes the side can still be strengthened, but admits Joe Bennett could well move on

Neil Warnock has revealed he is close to pulling off a surprise new Cardiff City signing – but confirmed the Bluebirds could see Joe Bennett depart after talks were opened with Fulham over the full-back.

Neil Warnock has revealed he is close to pulling off a surprise new Cardiff City signing – but confirmed the Bluebirds could see Joe Bennett depart after talks were opened with Fulham over the full-back.

Warnock has been seeking for extra options for his squad and has been keen to add an eighth new signing following a start to the season that has seen Cardiff win all three of their opening league fixtures for the first time in history.

And he admitted he has tabled an offer for an unnamed player as he talked up left-footed cover and confirmed Fulham had begun negotiations over the potential exit of Bennett.

Warnock did stress Bennett – who has a release clause in his contract – was not guaranteed to leave and missed Tuesday night's win over Sheffield United with a calf injury.

"I've spoken to him tonight and they are talking to our people," Warnock said of Fulham's interest in the former Aston Villa man. "I'm not aware of anything definite, but I think he has a buy-out clause in his contract so it's up to them to meet it, and if they do they're entitled to talk to him. It doesn't mean he's going anywhere, mind."

Asked if he would consider accepting the Bennett cash to fund the strengthening of the squad in other areas, Warnock said: "We're always looking. You don't know what's going to happen in the next two or three weeks, but we're quietly confident bringing someone in. We're missing a natural left-footer and we're struggling on that at the minute, but we will look at options in case people leave which is what we're doing.

"And I might be getting someone else this week if I get a chance; I've made an offer for a player that no-one knows about yet.

"But I'm looking how we can keep topping the squad up so if we get one or two injuries in certain areas we've got enough. I'm looking for hungry type of player come into squad."

Warnock confirmed he rested both Lee Peltier and Loic Damour from the side that beat Villa but are hopeful he will have both fit to return against fellow unbeaten starters Wolves on Saturday.



http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/neil-warnock-reveals-hes-tabled-13482491

WhiteJC


Fulham settle for another point after Elland Road stalemate
by Dan on August 15, 2017


Fulham had to make to settle for a third successive draw at Elland Road tonight after an absorbing encounter between two potential promotion contenders ended in a goalless stalemate. Slavisa Jokanovic would have been encouraged by the fact that his side kept Leeds largely at bay – although in-demand forward Chris Wood missed a glorious opportunity to put the hosts ahead – as well as the way Fulham dominated the first half, but the visitors badly lacked penetration in the final third.

Leeds boss Thomas Christiansen had to pair youthful midfielder Conor Shaughnessy with Swedish colossus Pontus Jansson at the heart of the back four with both Matthew Pennington and Liam Connor ruled out with injuries. The home side looked vulnerable from the outset with Ryan Fredericks whipping a dangerous low cross right across the face of goal and, once Fulham had readjusted to cope with Tim Ream's temporary absence after being clattered by Samuel Saiz, Jokanovic's side began to seriously threaten Felix Wiedwald's goal.

Stefan Johansen sent a low drive narrowly wide from outside the box in the twelve minute before Aboubakar Kamara saw an effect deflected wide and, after a flowing passing move that shifted the Leeds backline around around, Ibrahima Cisse beat Wiedwald with a wonderful strike from the edge of the area but the ball came back off the base of the far post. It would have been a perfect way for the Belgian midfielder to mark his league debut, but Leeds survived all of those early scares.

As Spaniards Saiz and the artful Pablo Hernandez grew into the game, Christiansen's side began to put the Fulham rearguard under some serious pressure. A gorgeous through ball from Ezgjan Alioski released Wood into the inside right channel and the New Zealand international was clean through on goal. He tried to lift a finish over the advancing David Button but the Fulham goalkeeper was equal to the effort – and palmed the ball away to safety.

Jokanovic was then forced into an early reshuffle when a disconsolate Lucas Piazon, whose fabulous finish at Reading had been rewarded with a starting spot, was carried away following a robust challenge by Shaughnassy. Neeskens Kebano replaced the Brazilian who was taken straight down the tunnel with a suspected broken leg – and Fulham's rhythm evaporated. Wood did put the ball in the net having expertly brought down a Saiz cross but was correctly flagged offside.

During the extended stoppage time played at the end of the first half, Fulham had a fortunate escape from a set play. Saiz's delivery prompted panic in the box but Shaughnessy couldn't muster a telling finish and the excellent Denis Odoi, who had an assured game at centre halve, cleared the danger. The second half was a tempestuous affair which saw Sessegnon booked for a high challenge on Alioski and Kamara and Jansson wage a running battle with one another in full view of the officials.

As time ticked by, the contest became more open amidst tiring legs. Leeds skipper Luke Ayling volleyed over from a half-cleared free-kick and Hernandez wasted a decent opportunity by sending a set-play just outside the box in a central position, before Fulham's counter-attacks – usually utilising the pace of both full backs – began to deliver some openings. Stand-in skipper Sone Aluko screwed a shot wide before playing in Johansen, whose own effort was blocked, and Leeds surged straight up the other end, where Saiz shot across goal.

The visitors were looking lively on the break and perhaps should have gone in front when Johansen slid a delicious ball down the side of the Leeds defence sending Aluko through on goal. The Nigerian international was foiled at point blank range by a smart reaction save from Wiedwald, who made himself big. Jokanovic erupted in fury on the touchline after Shaughnessy appeared to bring down Kebano when the Congolese winger was through on goal. Kebano recovered his balance and shot towards goal, with the effort smothered behind by Wiedwald, although referee Darren Bond awarded a goal-kick and neglected to caution Shaughnessy.

Leeds also created good chances in a rip-roaring finale. Kalvin Phillips dragged a shot agonisingly wide of the far post and substitute Stuart Dallas nearly located Wood at the far post with a low cross that was deflected behind by Sessegnon. Right at the death, clever interplay between Cisse and Kebano created half an opening on the edge of box but the winger's dipping shot cleared the crossbar. Jokanovic might have expected more than three points from Fulham's opening three fixtures – but his side's discipline and a precious clean sheet represent real positives to draw upon tonight.

LEEDS UNITED (4-2-3-1): Wiedwald; Ayling, Anita, Shaughnessy, Jansson; Phillips, O'Kane; Saiz (Dallas 82), Hernandez, Alioski (Roofe 63); Wood. Subs (not used): Green, Borthwick-Jackson, Bridcutt, Klich, Ekuban.

BOOKED: Phillips, Anita.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Button; Fredericks, R. Sessegnon, Odoi, Ream; McDonald, Cisse, Johnasen; Aluko, Piazon (Kebano 35), Kamara (Norwood 76). Subs (not used): Rodak, S. Sessegnon, Djalo, Deun, Woodrow.

BOOKED: Sessegnon.

REFEREE: Darren Bond.

ATTENDANCE: 28,918.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2017/08/fulham-settle-for-another-point-after-elland-road-stalemate/

WhiteJC

 
Get Well Soon, Lucas Piazon
An ode to Lucas Piazon, our most passionate loanee.


Get well soon, Lucas. Photo by Harry Hubbard/Getty Images

Football is a cruel business. When things seem to finally be on the up, when fortune is finally starting to swing your way, reality can come crashing down in a devastating instant. Sadly, this fate befell Lucas Piazon tonight.

This season marked Piazon's second straight year on loan at Craven Cottage, and throughout each season he has performed with utter class and dedication. His passion and work-rate are simply unmatched, and he has made it no secret that he loves the club. The fans rightly love him back.

Piazon had just experienced one of his brightest moments in a Fulham shirt on the weekend, and it seemed as if this season would be one to remember for the Brazilian. In the dying moments against Reading, Piazon produced a memorable strike that will long live in the minds of the Fulham faithful.

There are few sights more satisfying in football than watching a player score against his former club, wheel away in celebration, and goad his former support with an open palm to his ear. To the immense glee of the traveling Fulham support, Lucas Piazon played the role with perfection on Saturday afternoon, scoring the 83rd minute equaliser to ensure the Whites wouldn't leave the Madejski empty-handed yet again. It was a stunning, audacious, and overall superb way to make his mark on the match.

Yet tonight the cruel reality of football dimmed his bright hopes.

The Brazilian loanee from Chelsea went down injured in tonight's match against Leeds in the 34th minute, following a heavy challenge from Conor Shaughnessy. Piazon had played intelligently during the opening half hour and it was heartbreaking to see the creative midfielder in pain. The worst pain, however, came after the final whistle, when it was confirmed that Piazon had broken his fibula.

It was a truly devastating piece of news. Any human in their right mind would feel sympathy and sorrow for Lucas Piazon, a hardworking footballer who just received news of a hampering long-term injury. But the fanbases of Reading and Leeds showed their utter lack of class when reacting to his injury.

The senseless morons at Elland Road tonight booed Piazon when he went down. Booing a player who has just broken his leg: it just oozes class. To be fair, it's to be expected of a club like Leeds.

The mindless Reading supporters on Twitter laughed at Piazon's diagnosis tonight, reaffirming Reading's place as one of the most tasteless clubs in the country.

Despite the immense idiocy of some supporters, Fulham fans stand strong in their support of Lucas Piazon during this tough time. From all Fulham supporters, we wish Lucas Piazon a speedy recovery.

Get well soon, Lucas. Your passion and brilliance will not be forgotten.

COYW!



https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2017/8/15/16154058/get-well-soon-lucas-piazon


WhiteJC

 
Cardiff boss Neil Warnock reveals Joe Bennett is in talks to join Fulham

Neil Warnock confirmed defender Joe Bennett is in talks to join Fulham after Cardiff stayed top of the Sky Bet Championship.

Sean Morrison and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing scored as Cardiff beat Sheffield United 2-0 - the first time in their 118-year history that the Bluebirds have begun a league campaign with three wins.

But former Aston Villa left-back Bennett was missing from the side after playing in Cardiff's opening two games.

"Fulham are talking to our people," Bluebirds boss Warnock said.

"I'm not aware anything has happened, but he (Bennett) has a buy-out clause in his contract and it's up to them if they meet it.

"They are entitled to talk to him but it doesn't mean he's going anywhere."

On replacing Bennett if he does head to Craven Cottage, Warnock replied: "You don't know what's going to happen in the next two weeks in this game.

"We miss a naturally left-footer, but we've got to look at other options just in case people leave and that's what we are doing.

"I might get someone in this week. I have made an offer for a player because I want to top the squad up.

"I want that hungry type of player who can come in to the squad and bide his time."

Victory gave Cardiff a historic third straight win and nine points, but Warnock quipped: "It's not my first time.

"But when I came here last October we had eight points, so it's a great achievement where we are.

"I thought the goal settled us down and we played some good stuff at times.

"All you can do is win your early games because that gives you confidence and takes a lot of pressure off."

Chris Wilder has his own deals to make before the transfer window closes, with the Blades boss admitting he wants to sign a centre-half, a midfielder and a striker.

But Wilder says he has been encouraged by the opening three games, which has brought a win and two defeats on the back of promotion from League One.

"We're going to endure some tough nights, we totally understand that coming into the division after six years out of it," Wilder said.

"But we haven't been overrun against players who can hurt you.

"We've had two really tough games against Middlesbrough and Cardiff, but we haven't embarrassed ourselves.

"We competed well enough against the league leaders, we never folded and kept going to the end. But we do need to get better."



https://www.clubcall.com/sheffield-united/cardiff-boss-neil-warnock-reveals-joe-bennett-is-in-talks-to-1859796.html

WhiteJC

 
Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic fumes over 'ugly' comments as Chelsea loanee Lucas Piazon suffers a broken leg at Leeds

Fulham boss 'disappointed' with comments made regarding the tackle on his midfielder

Fulham midfielder Lucas Piazon has a suspected broken leg, according to Slavisa Jokanovic.

The 23-year-old was on the end of a heavy tackle shortly before half-time and was helped off the pitch by Fulham's medical side.

Jokanovic confirmed it is a bad injury and was livid with comments he had heard regarding the tackle, claiming they were some of the worst things he has heard in professional football.

He admitted he had not really seen the challenge, but was more infuriated by the comments.

"It's very bad injury. We have lost him for long time. I believe it's a broken fibula," Jokanovic said.

"It's not a question about complaining; it can be bad luck, it can be a tackle outside of the norm.

"But I am really disappointed with what I heard today, one of the referees saying: 'this is English football, this is completely legal'. I am 48 year-old man and I've never heard an ugly answer like I hear today."

Jokanovic was asked to clarify his comments further, but would not be drawn into explaining them.

"It's not important," he went on to add. "We don't need to go so deep into it. I am personally a little bit disappointed.

"I hear something, it's probably because my English is not great, because it's so ugly and I never expected to hear it in professional football.

"I'm disappointed in comments from people who need to care and save the players. I was simply surprised to hear that.

"I've never heard such silly commentary about a complex situation like I heard today."



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/slavisa-jokanovic-fumes-over-ugly-13482515