Sunday Fulham Stuff - 24/05/26...

[WhiteJC]

Fulham v Newcastle United is one of those (what feels like) rare matches where everything...
Newcastle United are off to play Fulham.

The final game of this 2025/26 Premier League season for Eddie Howe and his team.

A 4pm kick-off (same as the other nine Premier League matches on the final day of the season) at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

It feels like pretty much every week that before our next match, so many statistics are trotted out as to why it is all but inevitable that Newcastle United will surely lose.

You know the kind of thing, haven't won at this stadium for however many matches, never win against this team and so on.

With Fulham v Newcastle United though, it is one of those rare matches where everything...

The last six Newcastle United visits to Craven Cottage:
Fulham 0 Newcastle 4 (2018/19)
Fulham 0 Newcastle 2 (2020/21)
Fulham 1 Newcastle 4 (2022/23)
Fulham 0 Newcastle 2 (2023/24 FA Cup)
Fulham 0 Newcastle 1 (2023/24)
Fulham 3 Newcastle 1 (2024/25)

The last ten games between the two teams (home and away in all competitions) have seen eight Newcastle United wins and only two for Fulham.

Since 2017, Newcastle United have faced Fulham 13 times home and away in all competitions, Fulham have only won twice with one victory at Craven Cottage and one at St James' Park.

When playing their final league match of the season in London, Newcastle United are unbeaten in their past seven (W6 D1), since a 3-2 loss at Spurs in 1972/73. This run includes 4-0 and 2-0 victories at Fulham in 2018/19 and 2020/21.

What could possibly go wrong on Sunday?



https://www.themag.co.uk/2026/05/fulham-v-newcastle-united-is-one-of-those-what-feels-like-rare-matches-where-everything/

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva: Fulham 'giving everything' to keep manager, taking advantage of window of opportuntiy
Marco Silva wants to resolve his future in the next week, with Fulham making a late push to convince him to stay.

Record report that a delay in José Mourinho's potential return to Real Madrid has given Fulham their chance to convince Silva to stay.

Fulham efforts
The newspaper explains that José Mourinho's departure is on hold, giving Fulham space to try and convince Marco Silva.

The Premier League side are 'giving everything' to convince Silva to stay at Craven Cottage. He wants his next step defined in the next weeks.

According to Record, Fulham have been given space to 'do everything' to keep Silva this summer. They want to convince him to stay and have already offered an increased budget for next season.

That's alongside a four-season renewal offer and increased wages. The hope is that is enough to convince Silva to stay.

The Portuguese manager wants funds to carry out a 'certain restructuring' of the Fulham squad, believing it to be necessary. The plan is to meet again following the final game of the season, against Newcastle, to talk these plans over with Fulham's management.

Benfica impasse
They are taking advantage of Benfica's inability to push forward, despite reports of them being keen on hiring Marco Silva this summer.

"I haven't had any direct conversations with Benfica. There's nothing tangible," Silva clarified in a press conference previewing the last game of the season.

That is because Benfica president Rui Costa will not proceed without first dealing with José Mourinho's situation. He is aware of the window but cannot do anything until Mourinho's future is resolved.

His contract must be expired, the two parties have a 10-day period in which to do this, before he can take 'firm steps' towards a replacement: in other words, Marco Silva.

That gives Fulham their opportunity to stake their case and perhaps keep him at Craven Cottage this summer after all.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/marco-silva-fulham-giving-everything-to-keep-manager-taking-advantage-of-window-of-opportuntiy/

[WhiteJC]

Nigeria's Calvin Bassey confesses: Why I failed at Ajax but became a Fulham star
Nigeria international Calvin Bassey has opened up on the difficult tactical lessons he learned during his troubled spell at AFC Ajax and why life has become far smoother for him at Fulham, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Eagles defender arrived in Amsterdam in the summer of 2022 after a sensational breakthrough campaign with Rangers, where his powerful displays helped the Scottish side reach the UEFA Europa League final and win the Scottish Cup. Ajax paid a club-record £19.6 million (€23m) for the Nigerian, believing he could replace Lisandro Martinez following the Argentine's move to Manchester United.

But the transfer quickly became difficult for Bassey. He walked into an unstable Ajax side following the departure of Erik ten Hag, while managers Alfred Schreuder and John Heitinga struggled to rebuild the team. His debut also set the tone for a frustrating season after he was sent off only 17 minutes after coming on.

Dutch football legends Wesley Sneijder and Marco van Basten publicly criticised his technical level, especially in Ajax's possession-heavy system where defenders are expected to dictate play from the back. Opponents often pressed Bassey aggressively and forced him into uncomfortable passing situations.

Now 26, the defender says the tactical demands in the Netherlands were far more complex than what he had previously experienced in Britain.

"It was the tactical aspect of understanding where you need to be and knowing where your next pass is going," Bassey explained as per AjaxShowTime. "In England, full-backs normally stay on the sideline.

"At Ajax, a full-back plays more like a number six in possession, or he moves as soon as you receive the ball. So if you understand it tactically and know where your next pass needs to go, it becomes easier.

"If my first touch was to the outside, which was natural for me because I expect the full-backs to be there, my passing lane was immediately blocked, because the full-back at Ajax can cut inside."

Fulham move transforms Calvin Bassey's career
Bassey's return to England with Fulham in 2023 completely changed the direction of his career. Under Portuguese coach Marco Silva, the defender has flourished in a more direct and physically demanding Premier League environment.

The Nigerian made 29 league appearances during his debut season and produced one of Fulham's biggest moments of the campaign when he scored in a famous 2-1 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford in February 2024. By the following season, he had become one of the club's most dependable players, starting 35 matches and winning Fulham's Player of the Season award after improving his passing accuracy to an impressive 96 percent.

Bassey recently celebrated his 100th appearance for Fulham during the club's 1-1 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers, showing how dramatically his fortunes have changed since leaving Amsterdam.

The defender believes familiarity with English football has made adaptation easier this time around.

"The English league is easier for me because I am used to English football," he said. "Many managers come from abroad, mine is Portuguese, but it is the system I am familiar with. What you do at Ajax takes time.

"Players who were new needed more time to adapt. When you are young, and at that time I was 21 or 22, I might have needed another season to settle in. Just like in England. I needed a year there to settle in as well. After that, I played most of the matches and became Player of the Year at the club."

Bassey also admitted that the harsh experience in the Netherlands ultimately helped him mature as a footballer.

"I feel like I understand the game more, but that is clearly due to the experience you gain," he added. "The only way to know you are doing something wrong is to simply do it wrong. But it is also about the mentality. You have to be willing to make mistakes so that you can improve."

A win for Bassey's Fulham against Newcastle United on Sunday could see the Cottagers finish in the top half of the Premier League table and cap another fine year for the Londoners.



https://soccernet.ng/2026/05/nigeria-calvin-bassey-ajax-fulham-ranger.html

[WhiteJC]

Ex-Newcastle United targets have flopped at Fulham but Josh King could get fresh chance to impress
Newcastle travel to Fulham on Sunday to take on a goal-shy home side

Newcastle United may have regained some of their attacking verve in recent games but Sunday's opponents Fulham have struggled in attack - despite having several players linked with moves to Tyneside.

The Cottagers head into the final game of the season level on points with Eddie Howe's men, but below them in the Premier League table on goal difference.

Fulham have struggled in recent weeks to break sides down and their last two games have seen them fail to beat Championship-bound Wolves and also lose against 10-man Bournemouth.

The 1-1 draw last weekend at Molineux saw Antonee Robinson's penalty earn them a point. In their previous nine games, they had failed to score in seven of them.

The problems in front of goal comes despite Marco Silva having a number of attacking options at his disposal. Against Wolves, he selected a front three of Rodrigo Muniz, Emile Smith Rowe and Oscar Bobb but they struggled to make an impact.

Muniz was heavily linked with Newcastle last summer when the Magpies were in the depths of looking for a new striker but he has endured a disastrous season. United were quoted £55million for the Brazilian who enjoyed a successful 2024/25 season when he bagged 11 goals in all competitions, but this campaign he has flopped.

It started brightly for Muniz with a goal in the season-opener against Brighton. The trouble is, he hasn't found the back of the net since.

Norweigan winger Bobb is someone Newcastle know well after his stunning cameo for Man City at St James' Park two years ago, but the forward's career has stalled since then after a broken leg. He was linked with a move to United last summer but instead stayed at City before joining Fulham on a five and a half year contract for £27m in January. However, despite the huge fee he has yet to find the net this season.

England international Smith Rowe has fared slightly better this season with five goals in all competitions, though none in the Premier League since December.

Fulham's top attacker this season has been midfielder Harry Wilson. The Welshman was a substitute against Wolves, and is set to leave Fulham this summer on a free transfer after rejecting a new contract - he has been mentioned as a potential Newcastle target despite being 29.

Wilson, who has 10 goals and six assists this season in 35 Premier League games, is set to be recalled to the starting line-up at Craven Cottage on Sunday and will be looking to sign off with a flourish.

He could be joined in a new-look attack by Josh King, Kevin and Raul Jimenez. King is the exciting 18-year-old who will jet out to Florida with Thomas Tuchel's England squad as one of four additions to the 26-man World Cup squad to help with training and gain experience.

King is viewed as one of the most exciting talents in the Premier League - hence his call-up by England - and Newcastle have ran the rule over him a number of times over the last 18 months. He has scored twice this season, but has often been used as a substitute.



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/ex-newcastle-united-targets-flopped-33999943

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva: Fulham head coach to decide future next week amid Benfica links as 'important' summer looms
Marco Silva's contract at Fulham expires at the end of the season; the 48-year-old has been linked with replacing Jose Mourinho at Benfica; Silva has been at Fulham for five years; Watch Fulham vs Newcastle this Sunday live on Sky Sports, kick-off 4pm

As he reflects on what could have been and what could yet be, Marco Silva concludes this summer is a huge one for Fulham.
Their race for European football saw them fall back in the home straight. One win in six games has left them in mid-table limbo.

Silva points to several contributing factors. There have been missed opportunities in front of goal, questionable VAR decisions, key players losing form and, most recently, a needless red card against Bournemouth which changed the tide of a pivotal game.

The accumulation of those marginal gains may well have seen Fulham in the European places right now. But there is a greater, more fundamental issue - the squad.

"I know that after the promotion was a big summer for Fulham, after that promotion, some difficult decisions had to be made and we did it," Silva told Sky Sports ahead of their final game against Newcastle.

"We took some important decisions, some key players at that moment and we decided to replace them, to let some players who were key for us leave. It was a key summer.

"I'm not saying that the club needs to sign 11 players next season. But definitely next summer is going to be very important for the future of this football club."

It remains to be seen if the Portuguese manager will be part of that future - the availability of the Benfica job will likely have a big say in that.

Silva has been consistent. He has said for several months that he'll decide on his future after the final game of the season. That moment is nearly upon us.

On Friday, he reaffirmed that message and revealed he will meet the club's hierarchy next week. He also insisted he has still had no contact with Benfica.

Regardless, Silva will, next week, present his end-of-season report to the Fulham board. It will outline where he feels they need to strengthen and to what extent. Will their commitment influence his big decision?

"It's always important, 100 per cent it's always important and the club knows that. They know clearly what things. They agree that some things should be part of the decision. The future of this football club, I really hope and I believe, yes."

Fulham's late-season slump had a sense of déjà vu about it. It was the third successive campaign in which they have spluttered in the spring. It has left fans frustrated and some wondering if the manager is to blame.

"It's something that we are analysing deeply really, because it happened again and it was something that, I can be honest with you, I've been speaking with the players [about] from last January, creating a scenario that cannot happen.

"I knew that we were going to be completely alive and on for something special. To happen again in that way, that frustrates me as it frustrates the fans and the players."

But Silva believes the issue is also rooted in recruitment. Fulham have an average age of 27.6 - it's the joint-highest in the Premier League.

"Fatigue is one of the things, of course, some players we felt, it cannot be lack of energy because all the clubs they arrive in this stage with less energy than they began with, it's clear.

"I like to have maturity, I'm always speaking about the experience, the maturity of this group being a strength. In terms of recruitment, the last two years we have been trying to bring in more fresh legs, to bring more young players. But four years in a row, the average age of our squad - we are always the oldest."

So if he does leave, what does Silva hope his Fulham legacy will be?

"If I'm going to stay or if I'm going to leave, I want just the people to know I'm someone that gives always - or gave always - the maximum for the football club; every single day with that passion and emotion, because I love the football club and I love my job. Simple as that. Someone who always puts the club above everything."



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/13547294/marco-silva-fulham-head-coach-to-decide-future-next-week-amid-benfica-links-as-important-summer-looms

[WhiteJC]

Newcastle United star again ruled out v Fulham plus Sandro Tonali hamstring scare - return dates
Sandro Tonali, Joelinton, Fabian Schar: Newcastle United injury list & expected return dates.

Newcastle United have a decision to make on Sandro Tonali's fitness for their final Premier League home of the season.

The Italian was forced off with a hamstring injury during the early stages of the second half in last weekend's 3-1 win at home to West Ham United.

Eddie Howe's side were already without another midfielder in Joelinton. The Brazilian is also expected to miss the trip to Craven Cottage.

The Magpies can no longer mathematically qualify for Europe but could still finish as high as ninth if they beat Fulham and results elsewhere go their way.

Ahead of the match, we take a look at Newcastle's injury list and expected return dates:

Sandro Tonali

Tonali was forced off with a hamstring issue early in the second half against West Ham United.

What's Eddie Howe said?

"Yeah, potentially available. We'll have a look at him again today. I don't think it was anything too serious."

Expected return date

Fulham (A) 24/05.

Joelinton

Joelinton missed the 3-1 win over West Ham United with a thigh issue and remains a doubt for the trip to Fulham.

What's Eddie Howe said?

"We have a doubt over Joelinton, who's picked up a slight thigh problem, so we'll assess him in the next couple of days."

Expected return date

2026-27 season.

Lewis Miley

Having only recently returned from months out with a muscle injury, Miley is now back on the sidelines after fracturing his fibula in training.

What's Eddie Howe said?

"It was a really innocuous moment, really, training on Tuesday. No one around him, there was no other player involved. He slipped and went down.

"We probably, at that moment, thought maybe just a twist of something, nothing too serious, but he was unable to continue and pretty early sort of became aware it was a little bit more serious than we thought.

"Yeah, and that's the fragile nature of a professional footballer's career and now he faces a few months out. We hope that he'll be back in and around it for pre-season.

"It's a real shame because he was playing really, really well, outstanding in recent weeks. We really missed him when he got his injury last time, so a real blow for us, but also for Lewy and knowing the strength of character, he'll be back and he'll be back better than ever, but it's going to be a blow for him and for us."

Expected return date

2026-27 season.

Tino Livramento

Livramento suffered yet another injury setback after limping off during the recent defeat to Bournemouth.

What's Eddie Howe said?

"Tino's doing well. He's really improving. He's back running again. He's on the grass. I don't think he'll be back this season.

"I think we could possibly push him maybe for the Fulham game, but I think that would be silly really on his behalf. I think let's let him recover and get a good summer behind him."

Expected return date

World Cup.

Fabian Schar

Schar was scheduled to return from three months out with an ankle injury last month before picking up a foot injection that required surgery.

The former Switzerland international out of contract in the summer but it is hoped will sign a new deal.

What's Eddie Howe said?

"No, I don't think he'll make the last two games, which is a real shame for Fabian because he was so close to returning a few weeks ago, and then, of course, he suffered the infection that he did.

"He's back running again and he's looking fit and healthy, but there's a big difference between that and actually playing. So, yes, I don't think he'll be there, which is a real shame for him."

Expected return date

2026-27.

Emil Krafth

Krafth is sidelined with a knee injury and won't play for the club again after announcing last week he will be leaving when his contract expires.

What's Eddie Howe said?

"Emil's had an operation on his knee, so I think in all likelihood it looks like the season is over, which is a real blow for us.

"He first suffered the problem on international duty. We hoped that he could come back and be OK, but it was clear in training recently that he wasn't going to get to the level needed and that he needed a surgical intervention."

Expected return date

2026-27.



https://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/newcastle-united-injury-news-fulham-joelinton-sandro-tonali-8637506

[WhiteJC]

Team News: Fulham vs. Newcastle injury, suspension list, predicted XIs
Locked together on points, wins, draws and defeats in the Premier League table, Fulham and Newcastle United round off inconsistent campaigns at Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon.

Both the Magpies and the Cottagers could surge into the top half of the standings with victory in the capital, and here Sports Mole rounds up the team news for the two clubs.

FULHAM vs. NEWCASTLE

FULHAM

Out: Joachim Andersen (suspended), Jonah Kusi-Asare (knee)

Doubtful: Ryan Sessegnon (muscle)

Sports Mole's predicted XI: Leno; Castagne, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Iwobi, Lukic; Wilson, King, Kevin; Jimenez

NEWCASTLE

Out: Joelinton (thigh), Tino Livramento (groin), Fabian Schar (foot), Emil Krafth (knee), Lewis Miley (calf)

Doubtful: Sandro Tonali (hamstring)

Sports Mole's predicted XI: Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Guimaraes, Willock; Barnes, Woltemade, Ramsey; Osula



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/injury-news/team-news/fulham-vs-newcastle-injury-suspension-list-predicted-xis_597977.html

[WhiteJC]

THE SPECIAL - Fulham Away
Fulham v Newcastle United, Craven Cottage, 24/May/26, KO: 4pm, Premier League.

After nine months of increasing discomfort, worry, and exhaustion, it's tempting to think of this season as a particularly gruelling pregnancy. Except that we don't get the exciting pay-off at the end. Or the agony, for that matter, which will be unfolding down the road in Stratford. Instead, it's a genteel anti-climactic day out by the river in West London. On what promises to be a glorious bank holiday weekend, it feels curiously out of keeping with the season as a whole.

Last time we were here in these circumstances, we were caught between uncertainty and optimism as Rafa seemed to have finally discovered the optimum arrangement of his undersized blanket. After an uninspiring campaign, we finished on a high with three wins and a draw in our last five, scoring more than a quarter of our total goals in the process.

But we all know how that ended. Our striker and manager were never seen again, and the next time we witnessed United, a tub of congealed lard occupied the dugout and some hopeless overpriced Brazilian misfit was trying to lead the line. It was a summer when the doors slid shut leaving us stuck on the outside wondering where that train could have taken us.

Seven years later, everything has changed. And yet, this being United, so little has changed. Once again, we've been thankful for an end-of-season run that's promising to lift the mood. Win today and it'll be three wins and a draw from the final five. Plus ça change... More significantly, it again feels like we're at a crossroads, with the direction of travel determined by decisions to be taken over the summer.

The manager will certainly be back, but the make up of the first XI in mid-August 2026 is anyone's guess. For what it's worth, I don't think there will quite be the wholesale clearout that some foresee. It's one thing to come up with a plausible reason why a player in isolation might leave, quite another for that to come to pass in every case, especially given Howe's innate caution, the number of replacements needed, and the need to find willing buyers.

Still, we certainly need another goalkeeper, preferably a significant upgrade on our current first choice, with Pope slotting in as understudy for the final year of his contract. The chances of both young full-backs still being here seem slim, not least because of their contrasting World Cup fates. One will be in the shop window, the other nursing his fury at his late season treatment. The former should go - his lack of fitness, questionable attitude, and even more questionable defending determine that - the latter should be rewarded with a new contract and an arm around the shoulder - astonishingly his current salary is less than half that of Matt Targett and Aaron Ramsdale.

Given that we have no specialist full-back cover whatsoever as Trippier, Krafth, Targett, and Ashby depart, young squad bodies are surely needed on both sides. Rounding out the defence, a new centre back with pace and leadership is probably the biggest and quickest single improvement we could make. Not that those come cheap or easily. I can see us sticking with the status quo in the middle, barring Fab's decision on whether to live out his remaining days somewhere he can more easily curate that tan.

In midfield, signings will depend on departures. Will Sandro go? If someone is prepared to pay and to bear the risks of his addiction - insurance will be hefty - it's possible, but I still think there are too many practical barriers. Bruno surely prefers to be the biggest fish in a medium-sized pond, especially when the adulation he clearly needs is so readily and understandably on tap. Miley, Joelinton, and Ramsey will stay. The puzzle here is surely how to get the best out of what has been less than the sum of its parts this season, and that's on the manager.

The final third is surely where most questions exist. Gordon is on his way and I, for one, won't miss him in the slightest. I hope Eddie continues his policy of not giving him a single valedictory minute on the pitch and that he has learnt the lessons of his previous over-indulgence of the selfish Scouse layabout. That's one replacement needed among the wingers.

Of the others, all offer isolated traits but remain way short of the consistent all-round contributor we need. Murphy remains the best (only?) crosser in the squad; Barnes the best finisher; and Elanga, errr, the fastest runner. None has much of a footballing brain, a first touch, or the ability to find a pass. As much as I would like to see a wholesale refresh, scope is surely limited given our other needs.

Finally, our strikers. **** knows.

Personally - and this won't be popular - I'd keep Woltemade as the only player apart from Bruno who has that technical quality and footballing brain and hope he can toughen up and find a place in a new system as he has in recent weeks. I'd also keep Wissa - I know, I know - on the basis that he can't miss chances again in the way he has this season and his resale value is almost nothing given the 25% sell-on clause.

That means - with head rather than heart - I would sell Osula if a generous offer is forthcoming (£40-50m). The reality is that we have to sell players for profit. That means selling at the peak of their value, and there's nothing better in that respect than an eye-catching but unsustainable goalscoring run. Don't blame me. I didn't kill romance and turn football into a soulless game of accountancy.

Have you been following? In terms of first-team players, I make that...

    Definites - a goalkeeper, a left winger

    Probables - a full back, a striker

    Desirable - a centre-back

    Possibles (depending on departures) - a full back, a midfielder, a winger, a striker

    Squad - two full-backs and, depending on departures, a midfielder (Willock) and centre-back (Schär)

Good luck with that, lads. Much depends on the relative roles of Wilson and Howe. With the former in charge there may be more turnover than with the latter and a different profile of signing. Then again, I can still picture Murphy and Willock lining up on opening day next season.

***

And so after 58 competitive matches, it's time to bring the matchday Specials to a close for this season. That's a lot of waffle, not to mention the 58 previews, 58 sets of player ratings, and 58 match reports that go with them. Getting on for 200,000 words of match content before we even mention the other hundreds of articles we've published this season, only 93.8% of which were about Eddie Howe's future.

I hope you won't find it too self-indulgent of me to take a moment to thank everyone who has contributed and to remark on the remarkable range and quality of what we've been able to publish as an entirely voluntary enterprise that takes no money from anyone. That, of course, is our secret - no clicks chased here - but it depends on irrational levels of commitment and goodwill especially late on a midweek night when you've just watched United serve up a turd on a plate. I speak from painful personal experience.

If those in black and white were half as talented, dedicated to the cause, and consistent in what they produced, we'd be looking ahead to another season of Champions League football rather than the mediocrity of a bottom half finish.

And, finally, thank you to all our readers who indulge the waffle and make this such a civilised sanctuary of thoughtful and respectful discussion. Mostly.

It's been a pleasure.

Matthew Philpotts



https://tf1892.substack.com/p/the-special-fulham-away

[WhiteJC]

Latest. How to watch Fulham vs Newcastle United: TV channel, kick-off time and team news
Everything you need to know as Newcastle United travel to Fulham as the Premier League campaign comes to an end.

WHEN IS THE MATCH?

The match will take place at Craven Cottage on Sunday May 24th, kick-off 4pm BST.

HOW CAN I FOLLOW THE MATCH LIVE?

The match will be shown live in the UK on Sky Sports. Supporters in other countries can check their local broadcaster here.

Supporters can also listen to BBC Radio Newcastle commentary across newcastleunited.com and the Official Newcastle United App with a Newcastle United Account.

Our Match Centre will provide minute-by-minute updates, as well as all the key stats. Fans can also chose their Player of the Match at full-time.

Match updates will be provided across the club's social media accounts. Follow them here: X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Threads

WHEN CAN I WATCH HIGHLIGHTS?

Highlights will be available on newcastleunited.com and the Official Newcastle United App two hours after the match, with extended highlights from midnight. A full match replay will be available the following day.

WHAT'S THE NEWCASTLE TEAM NEWS?

Eddie Howe spoke to the media on Friday, admitting a late decision will be made on midfielder Sandro Tonali. You can read the full team news update here.

WHAT'S THE FULHAM TEAM NEWS?

Joachim Andersen will miss the tie due to suspension, while Ryan Sessegnon is out injured.

WHICH KIT WILL BE WORN?

We will wear our 2025-26 third kit, featuring blue and orange. You can buy the kit here.



https://www.newcastleunited.com/en/news/how-to-watch-fulham-vs-newcastle-united-tv-channel-kick-off-time-and-team-news

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa, Fulham and Crystal Palace among reported suitors for Bayern youngster
A number of Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, Fulham and Crystal Palace, are reportedly interested in Arijon Ibrahimovic, who spent the 2025/26 at 1. FC Heidenheim on loan from Bayern Munich.

After spending the season on loan at 1. FC Heidenheim, 20-year-old Arijon Ibrahimović faces an uncertain future ahead of the summer transfer window, with only one year left on his contract at FC Bayern Munich.

According to English outlet TEAMtalk, Ibrahimović has caught the of a long list of Premier League clubs, with Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, Brentford, Fulham and Crystal Palace all said to be monitoring his situation.

Whether Bayern are prepared to part ways with the 20-year-old is doubtful, however, as the report also states that the German champions see him as a player with a "major futue".

Ibrahimovic was a regular for Heidenheim in the past campaign, scoring two goals and providing five assists in 34 appearances for the relegated Bundesliga club.



https://bulinews.com/aston-villa-fulham-and-crystal-palace-among-reported-suitors-for-bayern-youngster

[WhiteJC]

Newcastle United line-ups vs Fulham with Dan Burn left out and Anthony Elanga nod
Newcastle bring their season to a close against Fulham, but there are still big calls to make

Newcastle United bring another roller-coaster of a season to a close when they face Fulham at Craven Cottage this afternoon. So much has happened since that goalless draw at Aston Villa back in August, and in many ways it feels as though the campaign never really got going for Eddie Howe's side.

The United head coach will make a late call over Sandro Tonali's fitness for today's game, but otherwise is expected to go with a similar side to the one that beat West Ham confortably last weekend.

However, stars such as Dan Burn, Jacob Murphy and Joe Willock will be pushing for a plack in the starting XI, while youngsters like Leo Shahar and Sean Neave could hope for a chance to shine.

It may be the final game, but Howe still has some big decisions to make - here's what our team of NUFC writers would do.

Lee Ryder
Eddie Howe will name his strongest XI available at Craven Cottage as he looks to sign off for the 2025/26 season in style.

But what is the strongest XI these days? And where does that leave the big money buys United snapped up back in August? The truth is, few could have predicted the team sheet for the final game of the season at Fulham. But here's how I'd line up against Marco Silva's side.

I'd go with Nick Pope in goal with a view to him ending the season with better memories than the ones that have haunted him at times this term. Kieran Trippier bids farewell at right-back and Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman take up slots in the heart of defence.

Dan Burn would get the nod at left-back against his old club with Lewis Hall narrowly missing out. In midfield, my pick would be Jacob Ramsey, Joe Willock and Bruno while Harvey Barnes, William Osula and Anthony Elanga lead the line.

MY NUFC XI: Pope, Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Burn, Ramsey, Guimaraes, Willock, Barnes, Osula, Elanga.

Sean McCormick
It has been very rare this season that I have advocated for an unchanged starting XI but that is what I would like Newcastle United to do at Craven Cottage as they look to end the season with a win.

The team that beat West Ham United had a nice balance to it and the 4-2-3-1 system is really paying dividends. Nick Woltemade looks at home in the number 10 position, Harvey Barnes and Jacob Ramsey are bang in form and Will Osula is scoring goals.

I was tempted to take Kieran Trippier out of the team after his emotional farewell to St James' Park last weekend, and possibly starting Lewis Hall at right-back and Dan Burn at left-back but with Trippier the only natural right-back in the squad it makes more sense to stick with a balanced back four that looked solid against the Hammers.

MY NUFC XI: Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali; Barnes, Woltemade, Ramsey; Osula

Ross Gregory
It has been an odd season and one last final strange element could be that none of the three Newcastle players England have selected for their World Cup squad will start the last game of the season.

Tino Livramento is injured; Anthony Gordon axed due to his impending transfer. That just leaves Dan Burn and as much as he will be itching to start against his old club, I'd leave him on the bench and stick with Lewis Hall - who should have been in Thomas Tuchel's squad - at left-back.

In fact, I'd keep the starting XI against Fulham exactly the same as that which lined up against West Ham, if Sandro Tonali is fit. If the Italian fails to make it then Joe Willock seems like the obvious replacement but with Jacob Ramsey perhaps dropping deeper.

MY NUFC XI: Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali; Barnes, Woltemade, Ramsey; Osula

Stuart Jamieson
Eddie Howe may have more than one eye on next season, but Newcastle need to sign off on a positive note at Fulham today. The good news is that very little has to change from the starting XI against West Ham last week. If Sandro Tonali is ruled out then Joe Willock comes in, with Jacob Ramsey playing slightly deeper.

It would be great to give Leo Shahar and Sean Neave a runout this afternoon, but I'm sticking with the same team from last week, which means finally picking William Osula in the line-up.

I'm still not convinced but you simply cannot argue with what he's done over the last month. He's taken his chance and you have to admire that.

MY NUFC XI: Pope, Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall, Tonali, Guimaraes, Ramsey, Woltemade, Barnes, Osula.




https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-line-ups-fulham-33995750

[WhiteJC]

Fulham have clear Newcastle United target as Marco Silva reveals final-day plan
The Magpies end their Premier League campaign at Craven Cottage this afternoon

Fulham boss Marco Silva insists his side will be pulling out all the stops to finish ahead of Newcastle United in today's Premier League final-day clash at Craven Cottage.

Eddie Howe takes his side to West London with little more than pride to play for this afternoon, with both sides now out of the race for a place in European competition.

Newcastle can finish ninth with three points against Fulham, if Brenford lose to Liverpool and Sunderland fail to beat Chelsea at the Stadium of Light.

It's not the position United envisaged back in August, but while Howe is keen to take positive momentum into the summer and next season, Fulham boss Silva also has ambitions to climb the table.

Speculation over his future remains high, with the Portuguese boss out of contract and strongly linked with a switch to Benfica. However, he insists his side will only be focused on signing off with three points today.

"It is very important," Silva said of ending on a positive note today. "It's always the reason why we work, it's always the reason why we want to be there at the Cottage.

"We want to play in front of our fans, that is the reason always behind it, to win games and to make them proud.

"About the feelings or the mood, as you expected after the Bournemouth game that we lost, and the last game against Wolves where we drew the game, of course, the mood is being completely different.

"As an ambitious group of players and staff, myself always in front of them, the frustration is there, the disappointing moment was there from us, but we have to look for all the picture. I'm the first one to make them to understand all the picture as well.

"And about the last game, let's try to end on a high, let's try to end with a good performance, let's try to make our fans proud.

"Most of the times they should be proud of where the Club came from, and where we are right now, with this mix of feelings that we have after another positive season, and the mix of feelings that we have to not be playing European competitions next season.

"We are talking about probably the difference of two or three points, because with three more points right now, the next game is going to be a final for us at the Cottage, with all the emotions there.

"To talk about the difference of two or three points, it isn't fair to talk about a great, great season or a bad season. I don't go in that direction at all.

"Very positive again, where the Club came from until now, and I really prefer, definitely, to have this mix of feelings, and this frustration, or disappointment of not being in European competitions. It shows the ambition, shows we care where we came from."

Fulham can realistically only finish in 10th as their goal difference is poorer than many of their mid-table rivals, but Silva knows a win today will mean they will finish ahead of Newcastle.

"We still have targets, and that was the way we started the week," he added. "Of course, we analysed the game against Wolves, we analysed the chance we lost, to make this game a final for us to be in the European places. But straightaway we move on for the next one, and we still have targets.

"Newcastle have the same points as us – they are above us because of the goal difference. First one is to try to finish above them. If we win the game, we are going to be above them.

"We don't control the other results, but it's a chance for us to finish in the top half of the table. It's always a target for us, another motivation for us, and should be a motivation, because it's not something that the Club gets often. We did it in the first Premier League season, but it's not something that is usual and the Club gets often.

"Let's go to fight for it, and of course all the other things – another three points, many things are there, players to show pride, it's the last game but we have to put our maximum there.

"If we can perform in the way most of the games we performed at home, even better, because the fans deserve it. Give something back to them.

"Many things still there, even if that cherry on the top of the cake about European competitions, they are not going to be there no more. Many things still there for us to fight for."



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-clear-newcastle-united-target-34002978

[WhiteJC]

Mr Khan's Programme Notes
Good afternoon and welcome to Craven Cottage for our final home match of the 2025-2026 Premier League season. It is a pleasure to welcome Newcastle United and their supporters to our beautiful ground here on the banks of the River Thames. To all Fulham fans – both those who have been here with us throughout this campaign and those supporting from afar – thank you for your continued backing through our fourth consecutive campaign of top-flight football.

As we close the chapter on another season, it is natural to take stock. This has been another good campaign for Fulham Football Club – and I mean that sincerely. We are on the cusp of securing a top-half finish, which represents the kind of stability and consistent achievement that many doubted we were capable of securing when we returned to the Premier League in 2022. That sense of security – that relegation in recent seasons has never been a concern, that we compete confidently week in and week out against the best in the world – is something I do not take for granted, and I hope our supporters don't either. We have come a very long way over the past five years.

And yet, like you, I cannot help but wonder a little over what might have been.

This squad has demonstrated capability beyond what our final league position may suggest. There were moments this season when we positioned ourselves for something more – a European berth or a deep run in the cup competitions – and the proximity to those achievements stings in a way that perhaps underscores the high expectations we have now rightfully set for ourselves.

That frustration, however, is a signal of progress, not failure. It reflects what we have built and what our supporters now expect from Fulham Football Club. I understand that completely, and it does not escape my notice.

Our performances in the cup competitions give me optimism. We're getting closer. Since our promotion in 2022, Fulham has reached at least the quarter-final of either the FA Cup or the Carabao Cup – and this season we reached the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. That consistency in Cup progression is a marker of a well-run, competitive club, and it matters.

Individual performances have also been noteworthy, with several players across all our squads making milestone appearances for club or in competitions. Most recently as last weekend at Wolves, Bernd Leno made his 250th Premier League appearance – the third highest number of appearances ever recorded in the Premier League by a German footballer. That is a remarkable accomplishment, and Bernd's professionalism and excellence have been cornerstones of our set-up since he arrived. Thank you, Bernd!

We are also fortunate to have seven members of our squad in line for likely selection for World Cup duty this summer – Luc de Fougerolles (Canada), Sander Berge and Oscar Bobb (Norway), Timothy Castagne (Belgium), Raul Jimenez (Mexico), Antonee Robinson (United States) and Issa Diop (Morocco). That represents the calibre of player we have assembled, and we wish them all the very best in what promises to be a wonderful tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Our Head Coach Marco Silva has been absolutely integral to everything we have achieved. He is a major part of the foundation we are building, and he is aware of our collective ambition for the seasons ahead. The retention of our key players matters enormously in this regard.

To that end, I am delighted that Tom Cairney extended his contract with us in January, and equally pleased that we triggered a one-year extension with Ryan Sessegnon in April. These are players who embody what Fulham Football Club represents, and their continued presence provides the continuity and leadership we need.

Beyond the men's team, the 2025-2026 season has been a banner year across the entire Fulham Football Club family. Our women's team has achieved back-to-back promotions and will now compete in Tier 3 – the Women's National League Southern Premier Division – next season. Remarkably, they have remained unbeaten in league competition for two consecutive seasons. That is an extraordinary achievement!

Additionally, our women captured the Capital Cup with a victory over AFC Wimbledon, and our U18s side won the Capital Women's Cup Junior Section title for the second successive season. The trajectory of the women's programme is genuinely exciting, and a credit to the players and staff who have ambition and then go out and meet or exceed expectations.

Our Academy continues to be a point of real pride. I want to extend particular congratulations to Hayden Mullins, Head Coach of our U21s team, who has been voted Premier League 2 Head Coach of the Season. Hayden was presented with this prestigious award at the Premier League Youth Development Conference at Wembley Stadium. His work in coaching young talent is exemplary and speaks to the quality of our Academy infrastructure.

Off the pitch, I am delighted to report that the Riverside and Fulham Pier have continued to receive well-deserved recognition. Most recently, our hospitality and matchday offering at The Riverside was honoured with the prestigious Hospitality & Experience Award at the 25th Sports Industry Awards. This recognition is a testament to our team's commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all who visit Craven Cottage.

It was particularly moving at our last home match to welcome back Jean Tigana to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Fulham's first promotion to the Premier League in 2001. Jean was presented with the Forever Fulham Award at our fixture against Bournemouth, and it was an honour for me to be at the Cottage and see our fans celebrate his enormous contribution to our club's history. Those moments – honouring our past while building our future – are what Fulham Football Club is truly about.

Today, we will also be marking a special occasion as the family of George Cohen will be present to receive an England Legacy Cap on behalf of the Fulham legend. It is 60 years since England won the World Cup, and this tribute appropriately pays deep respect to one of English football's greats who wore a Fulham shirt with such distinction and pride. Congratulations to Daphne Cohen, George's wife for 60 years until his passing in 2022, and the entire family on the occasion of this immense honour.

As we close this chapter, I want to acknowledge and say thank you to our supporters. You have been tremendous throughout this season – passionate yet civil, knowledgeable, committed to attending matches home and away, and unwavering in your support. You always represent Fulham Football Club with distinction, and that goes beyond your support when we play. The identity and reputation of our club throughout the world leads with the class of our fans who have backed Fulham the right way over many generations, and long may that continue.

So, in summary, we have had a fine season – not without its frustrations, but solid and stable, with signs of promise within the squad. That is the Fulham Football Club we are building, and we are confident we can get where we need to be. Knowing we can count on you on this journey is important, and will make a difference.

Finally, the FIFA World Cup tournament opens in just a few weeks, and I wish you and your national team the very best this summer. Not to be overlooked, however, is the release of the Premier League fixtures on 19 June. That's always a day of high anticipation, but this year it will be even more eventful occurring during the World Cup. And then just a few months later, a new Premier League season will have begun. The off-season will go by fast, but be assured we will be working during the summer months to make certain our club and staff are ready to hit a higher gear in 2026-2027.   

Thank you for another wonderful year. Enjoy today's match against Newcastle, and we will see you very soon.

Come on, Fulham!



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/may/24/mr-khans-programme-notes/

[WhiteJC]

Increased searches on entry at Craven Cottage
We would like to remind all supporters attending Sunday's fixture at Craven Cottage against Newcastle United, there will be increased searches taking place prior to entry into the ground.

This will mean that everyone entering the ground will be searched, with all searches administered by Club stewards at the turnstile entrances. This process will involve a combination of handheld metal detectors and/or pat searches, and will all be carried out by qualified staff to prevent prohibited items listed in the conditions and terms of entry, being brought into the ground.

The decision to implement this new search process at the recent home fixture against AFC Bournemouth, was due to the current terrorism threat level increasing to severe, which has brought forward the Club's intention to introduce this from next season, in line with the passing and compliance of Martyn's Law where all venues are required to have in place effective plans and policies to keep the public safe at events, following the Manchester Arena attack. The legislation is expected to be enforced across the next 12 months.

Like any new process that the Club introduces, there can be teething problems, and for operational changes it can often be due, in the main, to a mix of resources and supporter familiarisation as the new process beds in.

We would therefore encourage supporters to arrive at turnstiles earlier than they normally would for Sunday's 4pm kick-off, to assist with the new safety and security entry process.

The Club thanks all supporters in advance who may have to change their matchday routine to help everyone adapt to the new matchday safety and security entry process. Fans can also help the process by getting ready to be searched by removing any keys or mobile phones from their pockets before they reach the turnstiles, as this will help speed things up.

As a reminder, turnstiles at Craven Cottage open three hours before kick-off for The Riverside, two hours for the Hammersmith and Johnny Haynes Stands, and one-and-a-half hours for the Putney End.

Supporters can contact the club directly via supporter services to provide feedback.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/may/22/increased-searches-on-entry-at-craven-cottage/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham v Newcastle United preview ahead of Premier League match
Welcome to the Fulham v Newcastle United preview.

Sunday 24th May and a 4pm kick-off.

Newcastle United draw a line under the season this Sunday afternoon when travelling to Craven Cottage for a televised dead rubber with Fulham.

A guaranteed mid-table finish is far from what fans were expecting at the start of the season and a big rebuilding operation will need to be underway if the Toon are to be challenging at the right end of the table in twelve months time.

The final Premier League table will see Newcastle United finish anywhere between ninth and fourteenth.

Form

Newcastle have won two, drawn one and lost three of their past six matches but are unbeaten in their most recent three. Defeats to Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Arsenal were followed by a win over Brighton, a draw at Forest and a win against West Ham. We've scored nine goals in these matches and conceded eight.

Fulham have lost three, drawn two and won one of their past six league matches. Defeats have come against Liverpool, Arsenal and Bournemouth whilst they've drawn with Brentford and Wolves and beaten Aston Villa. They've scored two goals in these matches and conceded seven. The five points gained have them thirteenth in the league with the opportunity to leapfrog Newcastle should they sign off their campaign with a win.

Last time out

The Toon gave their fans something to shout about last weekend with a fairly comfortable 3-1 win over West Ham United. Attacking the hammers from the off, United were ahead after on fifteen minutes when great work from Barnes allowed Woltemade the chance to volley home at the Leazes End. A few minutes later things got even better for the black and whites when some superb one-touch passing played Osula in on goal and he made no mistake when putting us 2-0 up. This was a great strike from the in-form striker, less impressive was the celebration which involved wearing a white glove and indulging in some Michael Jackson dance moves that would wow the punters of the Bigg Market on a Saturday night! Thankfully he celebrated his second and our third goal of the match in a rather more restrained manner despite the fact this put the match to bed and guaranteed three points for the Toon. West Ham finally woke up and scored the goal of the game soon after but 3-1 didn't flatter Newcastle, who were able to win the final home game of the season and send supporters home happy despite a deeply disappointing league campaign.

Fulham travelled to already relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers and had to be content with a 1-1 draw after falling behind to an early goal. The cottagers were able to equalise from a penalty at the end of the first half but struggled to create chances to win the match despite dominating possession. It was actually Wolves who had the better chances and the draw was not well received by either set of supporters as Fulham's hopes of European qualification slipped away.

Stat attack!

-This is the third time in eight years that Newcastle have played Fulham away in the last match of the season.

-The Toon have won five of their past six matches away at Fulham in all competitions.

-NUFC have found the net in each of their last six visits to Craven cottage, racking up an impressive fourteen goals.

Memorable match

In 2018/19 Rafa Benitez had done a sterling job under the tyranny of Mike Ashley to almost single-handedly drag the Toon from the Championship to the safety of Premier League mid-table. Amid much speculation about his future, Rafa took his black and whites to Fulham for the final game of the season. This was something of a stroll in the sunshine for NUFC who scored twice in quick succession through Shelvey and Perez and took a two-goal lead after just eleven minutes. With Fulham, managed by former Toon captain Scott Parker, never looking likely to stage a comeback, the away end was in party mood. This carnival atmosphere continued into the second half with goals from Fabian Schar and Salomon Rondon heartily celebrated before Benitez was given a tremendous reception from the travelling fans in an emphatic show of support for the manager. Unfortunately, this was the last we'd see of our inspirational leader due to yet more stupidity from Mike Ashley. What a waste.
Fulham 0-4 Newcastle.

Played for both

Philippe Albert is an absolute legend for those of us lucky enough to grow up in the mid-nineties. Signed by Kevin Keegan after a number of impressive performances at the 1994 World Cup, Albert soon proved that there was so much more than just defending to his game. Never afraid to bomb forward, he was often found at the other end of the pitch to good effect scoring a number of important goals. Although he's best remembered for his sublime chip to end the scoring in a famous 5-0 victory over Man United, a personal favourite memory of mine is when he galloped forward to volley home an equally special effort in a 3-3 draw against Man City the previous season. Keegan was so impressed by Albert at Newcastle that he signed him again for Fulham in 1998 and was rewarded with two goals as the cottagers gained promotion from division two.

Louis Saha played on loan at Newcastle under Ruud Gullit in 1999 but managed only a handful of games. His only league strike came in a 4-1 home win against Coventry. He also netted a cracker away at Blackburn in the fifth round of the FA Cup. His winning goal set up a quarter-final tie with Everton as the Toon marched on to the Wembley final. He signed for Fulham in 2000 and scored over fifty league goals for the club, he was top scorer in the promotion campaign of 00/01 and was named in the PFA team of the year. He spent four years at Craven Cottage before moving on to Man United.

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.

Managers

Eddie Howe after a 3-1 win over West Ham: "It was a strong performance from us. I was really pleased with a lot of aspects of our game today. Our attitude to the game – it would have been easy for people to look at this and say Newcastle had nothing to play for – but we have a duty to be at our very best and I'm pleased with how we went about it. We have a lot of players who play with pride and would never want to let the club down. It wasn't the perfect game from us but it was very good in phases, especially in the first half. I thought we were excellent with the ball, really creative. I think we've seen real progression in the last few weeks. A much better performance. We're showing signs we're beginning to re-find our form. One or two players can define an era. It has almost been the end of one type of Newcastle team when Alexander left, a new team was forming. Kieran Trippier was an iconic full-back and starts that again. That is the nature of football, it is changing and evolving all the time, it changes so quickly, sometimes it has changed slowly and our team has changed slowly after the past couple of years. This summer we might see a change of speed. It is about coming out stronger but it may well be different, but it still needs to be effective. It's a big summer for us, a huge summer for the football club. The results how you finish the season give hope for the next and that is what we are trying to do. You never know what can happen. It does feel it has the potential to be that summer for us, but regardless of big change or not we have to come out of that transfer window stronger."

Marco Silva after a 1-1 draw away at Wolves: "We equalised from a penalty and we had a good first half, however the second half was not at the level. When you don't play at the level to create chances, you are not able to win games. Of course, for us to think about other things, we have to win our game and we didn't. We tried everything. We freshened up nearly all of the front line, and our substitutions were always to try to give something else to the team. They were all players with an offensive mindset."

Charity

As it is an away match, Newcastle United fans will not be collecting opposite the Gallowgate end, for the food bank. However, you can still help out and all online cash donations are very much appreciated. For further info and/or to donate to the food bank online.

Prediction

It is always hard to predict the last game of the season, especially when there's very little to play for. The Toon looked good last week and here's hoping for a repeat performance as we finish a disappointing season on a high note.

Fulham 0-2 Newcastle.

That's it for another season. I hope you've enjoyed reading these match previews as much as I have writing them. Here's wishing all Toon fans a happy and restful summer ahead of another huge season next time out. Have a good one
Cheers. TAF




https://www.themag.co.uk/2026/05/fulham-v-newcastle-united-preview-ahead-of-premier-league-match/

[WhiteJC]

'We want to finish above Newcastle United' - Fulham send direct message before Premier League decider
Newcastle United travel to Fulham this afternoon on the final day of the Premier League season.

Marco Silva has challenged his Fulham players to finish above Newcastle United this weekend.

As it stands, the two clubs are tied on 49 points ahead of the Premier League finale. The Magpies bowed out with wins at Craven Cottage in 2019 and 2021.

Ultimately, the game is a dead rubber, with neither side able to qualify for Europe or suffer relegation. But top-flight pride is at stake and Newcastle will be aiming to end a disappointing season on a high.

Marco Silva battle cry
At his pre-match press conference, Fulham boss Silva rued missing out on Europe but tasked his players to secure a top-10 finish. He told reporters: "Newcastle have the same points as us, they are above us because of the goal difference. First one is to try to finish above them.

"If we win the game, we are going to be above them. We don't control the other results, but it's a chance for us to finish in the top half of the table. It's always a target for us, another motivation for us, and should be a motivation, because it's not something that the club gets often.

"We did it in the first Premier League season, but it's not something that is usual and the club gets often. Let's go to fight for it, and of course all the other things. Another three points, many things are there, players to show pride, it's the last game but we have to put our maximum there.

"If we can perform in the way most of the games we perform at home, even better, because the fans deserve it. Give something back to them. Many things are still there, even if that cherry on the top of the cake about European competitions, they are not going to be there no more. (There are) many things still there for us to fight for."

Eddie Howe on Fulham
Eddie Howe also vowed to try and end Newcastle's campaign positively. Ahead of the trip to West London, the Magpies can finish no higher than eighth.

"We hope to continue the upturn in our recent performances, upturn in our in-possession play, we want to end the season high, it is an important match for us," Howe said. "It was great to win our last home game. That left us all with a great feeling. We want to end the season on a real high."



https://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/newcastle-united-news-fulham-premier-league-8638323

[WhiteJC]

Fulham to release two young stars ahead of summer transfer window
Two decisions made after fine season for Under-21s

Fulham youngsters Brad De Jesus and Ollie Gofford will leave the club this summer.

Standard Sport understands that De Jesus has been told he is free to leave Fulham upon the expiry of his contract next month.

Gofford, meanwhile, announced on his official Instagram page that he would be exiting the club after 12 years in west London.

"After 12 unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye to Fulham," Gofford posted on Saturday.

"This club has been my second home for over half my life. I joined as a boy and leave as a young man, and I'm grateful for every experience, lesson, and opportunity along the way.

"Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, staff, and everyone behind the scenes who supported me throughout the years. I've made memories and friendships that will stay with me forever.

"Fulham will always hold a special place in my heart. Onto the next chapter."

Fulham Under-21s have enjoyed an excellent season, with manager Hayden Mullins named the inaugural Premier League 2 Head Coach of the Season.

Mullins was presented with the award at the Premier League Youth Development Conference at Wembley Stadium this week.

On being crowned Head Coach of the Season, Mullins said it was an honour to be the first recipient of the award.

"It's an honour to be recognised by your peers, the ones that work in your field," Mullins said.

"It's not just me, it's the whole MDT who have played their part in this as well. It feels like we're doing something right here and that we're on the right path.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-transfer-news-de-jesus-gofford-b1283461.html

[WhiteJC]

'Another tough one' - Chris Sutton predicts Fulham vs Newcastle
Fulham will host Newcastle United's final game of the season, with both sides going into the game on level points.

Neither side has anything left to play for at this point beyond league position, so there's every chance that this game could be a damp squib, but we'll see.

Newcastle can still finish above local rival Sunderland, who are two points ahead going into the game, but face Chelsea. So there's that at least.

There are also a few more million quid on offer for each league position we manage to claw back, which will come in handy given that we've not qualified for Europe.

A draw is the order of the day
It's hard to get too excited for today's game, especially when the pundits are predicting draws. Paul Merson expected plenty of goals with his prediction, but Chris Sutton for the BBC has gone with a less exciting version.

    "This is another tough one to call. These two sides are level on points in mid-table and, while Newcastle have beaten Fulham twice already this season, both those victories came through last-gasp goals in the 90th minute or later.

    "The Magpies did get a big win over West Ham at the weekend and have finished the season strongly, which is important for Eddie Howe's future.

    "Marco Silva's had another solid campaign with Fulham too, though, and I think his side will get something here - although admittedly I have been awful at predicting their results all season.

    "Sutton's prediction: 1-1"

Almost there
We're probably not alone in just being relieved that after today, the season is over and we can put this all behind us.

Another 90 minutes stand between us and a big sigh of relief, quickly followed by the realisation that there's no club football for months. Thank the Lord for the World Cup at least.

Let's get this done and let the overhaul begin!



https://nufcblog.co.uk/another-tough-one-chris-sutton-predicts-fulham-vs-newcastle-30179

[WhiteJC]

Newcastle United Sold Out
Tickets for our final Premier League fixture of the 2025/26 campaign against Newcastle United this afternoon are now sold out. Once again, thank you for your fantastic support!

TICKET EXCHANGE
The Ticket Exchange remains open for 2025/26 Season Ticket Holders who are unable to make today's fixture against Newcastle United. This is the Club's official resale platform which allows other supporters to purchase your seat for this match.

If your seat is resold on the Fulham FC Ticket Exchange, you will receive credit that can be used on future ticket purchases.

The Ticket Exchange deadline for Fulham v Newcastle United is 2.30pm on Sunday 24th May.

Any unsold tickets after these deadlines will be returned to their original owners. Season Ticket Holders are encouraged to list their seat as soon as possible to have the best chance of their seat being sold.

Please refer to the updated Fulham FC Ticket Exchange webpages for further information and step-by-step guidance on selling and buying tickets.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/may/24/newcastle-united-sold-out/

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, Fulham tracking Arijon Ibrahimovic
Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Fulham are keen on signing 20-year-old German youth international Arijon Ibrahimovic from Bayern Munich this summer.

According to a report by TEAMtalk, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Fulham have been closely monitoring Arijon Ibrahimovic during his loan stint with FC Heidenheim. The three Premier League clubs are keen on bolstering their offensive units this summer, and they have "carried out extensive scouting work" on the 20-year-old playmaker, with Brentford and Brighton & Hove Albion also interested in him.

Who is Arijon Ibrahimovic?
Arijon Ibrahimovic is the latest promising prospect to rise in prominence in his homeland. Born in Nurnberg, the youngster spent his formative years in Germany and graduated from the youth division at Bayern Munich. However, he has had to bide his time since breaking into the first-team squad at the Allianz Arena, embarking on three loan spells in as many seasons.

The 20-year-old has been with FC Heidenheim this season, and could not remain as productive as he would have liked during the club's battle to avoid relegation from the Bundesliga. The German playmaker managed only two goals and five assists in 34 appearances across all competitions. However, his stock remains high, with Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Fulham among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

Premier League adventure on the horizon?
Aston Villa are targeting a versatile playmaker this summer, as Unai Emery seeks more firepower in his squad's offensive unit. The Villans have been over-reliant on Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins in the final third, and Ibrahimovic's creativity offers the variety the team needs to evolve its attacking play.

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace's interest in Arijon Ibrahimovic is understandable, given their attacking struggles this season. Ismaila Sarr has carried much of the burden, with Yeremy Pino and Brennan Johnson failing to deliver the goods. Several candidates, including Dario Osorio, have thus emerged on Palace's wishlist, with Ibrahimovic also a viable target.

Fulham face an imminent challenge in their attacking department. Harry Wilson's contract expires in two months, with Aston Villa among interested suitors. The Welshman will leave a gaping hole in the offensive unit at the West London club, and Ibrahimovic can be a long-term replacement.

However, a summer move will not be straightforward. Bayern Munich are understood to view a bright future for the 20-year-old and may only sanction another loan arrangement to accelerate his development. A permanent sale remains unlikely, complicating matters for Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Fulham.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/05/24/aston-villa-crystal-palace-fulham-tracking-arijon-ibrahimovic/