Friday Fulham Stuff (05/12/14)...

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Football to honour 1914 Christmas Truce centenary

Clubs competing in the Barclays Premier League, the Sky Bet Football League and the second round of the FA Cup, will be commemorating the centenary of one of the most iconic moments of the First World War - the 1914 Christmas Truce – as part of a week of remembrance activity.

Prior to the Whites' Championship meeting with Watford on Friday, both teams will combine for a mixed squad photo in the spirit of the togetherness shown by troops from both sides in December 1914.

A joint collaboration between The FA, the Premier League, the Football League and the British Council, the aim is to engage football fans and players at every level about what took place on Christmas Day one hundred years ago on the battlefields in Belgium.

On 25 December 1914, soldiers from both sides put down their weapons and crossed into 'no man's land' to share in an impromptu ceasefire. First-hand accounts from the time include references to football being played and photographs taken.

All photos uploaded to social media using #footballremembers will be automatically uploaded to a special website. The site shall act as a moment of record of football in 2014, a century on from the First World War, and will be preserved for future generations.

Fans, teams and schools are encouraged to upload their pictures via social media over the course of Football Remembers Week. Any match of any size can be uploaded, from school to Sunday league fixtures, five-a-side matches to kickabouts in the back garden.

HRH The Duke of Cambridge, President of The FA, said: "It promises to be a powerful way to engage and educate young people about such an important moment in our history. We all grew up with the story of soldiers from both sides putting down their arms on Christmas Day, and it remains wholly relevant today as a message of hope over adversity, even in the bleakest of times."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/december/04/a-moment-in-history?

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Hangeland reveals how Palace and Fulham compare and explains Warnock's greatest strength

Brede Hangeland believes Crystal Palace and Fulham have a lot in common after spending his first four months with the south Londoners.

The Norweigan made the move to Selhurst Park in August after ending his six year association with the Whites.

In the early stage of the season, the 33-year-old was dragged into the row over Felix Magath when Danny Murphy revealed that the German manager suggested he treat an injury with cheese.

But Hangeland has moved on from those times and is loving life at Selhurst Park.

"I'm really enjoying it here. It's a great club with lovely people. The squad are a great bunch of lads and I'm happy here," he told London24.

"I think [Fulham and Palace are similar] in many ways.

"They are smallish clubs by Premier League standards. We know we have to do the right things.

"I'm definitely enjoying it and can keep going and get some wins on the board."

It's fair to say that Hangeland's time at Fulham did not end how he wanted it to but he still has strong affections for the club and has attended games as a supporter.

He explained: "I was there for a long time so I was going to have a strong connection to the club. I wish them well but Palace is my priority now."

Having been in the capital from January 2008, Hangeland is comfortable enough to take the train home from games, as he did on Tuesday after Crystal Palace's 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa, and he admitted that London was his second home now.

"Norway is home but London is definitely my second home," he explained.

"It's a dream to play in the Premier League. I'm grateful for the opportunity here at Palace when things didn't go well last year."

Hangeland was signed by Tony Pulis, who surprisingly resigned on the eve of the Premier League season, with Neil Warnock taking over.

And the Norweigan has been impressed by the former Leeds manager's man management skills.

"He's good at man management and tries to get the best out of his players," the 33-year-old revealed.

"He's a real winner. You could see from his frustration how much he cares about it. We want to do well for him."

The Eagles are sitting in 15th after 14 games, a point clear of the relegation zone, after their 1-0 defeat at home to Aston Villa and Hangeland believes that the south Londoners should have taken something from Tuesday night's contest.

"It's a results business so it's devastating not to win that game," he said.

"We had the majority of chances and possession but they did the important thing and score goals.

"We're disappointed to concede goals. As a team, we need to look at why we didn't score goals in that game.

"We had a lot of set pieces and situations in the box. On another day, we could have won that game comfortably so I'm very disappointed."

He added: "It's games like this you want to be winning but we didn't do that. The Premier League is getting more and more competitive.

"The majority of teams are looking at the 40 point mark and we're one of them. It could be more but I take it one game at time though."


http://www.london24.com/sport/football/clubs/crystal-palace/hangeland_reveals_how_palace_and_fulham_compare_and_explains_warnock_s_greatest_strength_1_3873256

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Fulham v Watford: Bank on home win by the Thames

Two sides going in opposite directions meet in Friday night's appetising live Championship game and Andy Tongue says that sticking with the in-form outfit should pay dividends...


Fulham v Watford
Friday, 19:45
Live on Sky Sports 1


Fulham

The Cottagers form since Kit Symons took over from Felix Magath stands against any side in the Championship and their fans are asking where their side might be had the Welshman been in charge since August: in or just outside of the top six is the pretty obvious answer.

However, their luck could be in this season as the second tier is even more competitive than usual with nobody able to pull clear of the pack and if Fulham can keep their current form up they will be on the verge of those play-off places by the turn of the year.

Last week's win at Brighton will have given Symons' side huge confidence being their first of the season away from home and at Craven Cottage, where they have four wins and a draw from their last five, they will be confident of beating anyone in the league right now.

Hugo Rodallega's goal at the Amex Stadium was the third consecutive game he'd found the net and his eighth of the season. After a slow start and not even being a regular selection under the mystifying Magath he's found his feet and is too powerful for most defences at this level.


Watford

In comparison to their hosts, the Hornets come here on a terrible run, having lost their last four straight games. Admittedly they've faced in-form Ipswich and Birmingham as well as table toppers Derby in that run but one win from seven has seen them slip down to eighth place. And that victory was a slightly fortuitous home win over struggling Millwall.

However, they will feel they were unlucky at home to Cardiff last Saturday, creating more than 20 chances but not being able to score as they lost 1-0.

Despite bringing in Sebastien Bassong on-loan from Norwich to try and add a bit of resolve to their preferred defensive trio, they have looked vulnerable at the back in recent weeks.

There's certainly no shortage of attacking ability at Vicarage Road, which makes the recent return of just two goals in four games a bit of a mystery. The talents of Mattej Vydra, Troy Deeney and Fernando Forestieri have recently been supplemented by the signing of Adlene Guedioura on-loan from Crystal Palace. Slavisa Jokanovic might give Guedioura a first start after he came off the bench last week.


Match Odds

The Championship is such an even division with very little separating the majority of the teams that taking a strong position in the Match Odds market is always a bit of a risky strategy. However, this looks a classic case of a side on the up and full of confidence meeting one who are in the middle of a bit of a wobble.

Given that you have to think Fulham are well worth backing at a juicy 2.34, especially given their fine form on their own patch since Symons took charge.

The Hornets defence struggled to cope with Cardiff's long balls to Keneywne Jones at Vicarage Road last Saturday and they can expect more of the same here with Rodallega very much of the same ilk. Fulham aren't afraid to get the ball played forward early to utilise his powerful and direct approach alongside Ross McCormack and Brian Ruiz in a strong front three.

With some fans already calling for Jokanovic to be sacked and a fifth manager of the season installed at Vicarage Road clearly all is not well around the club and this looks a tough trip to a side where the feel-good factor has definitely returned. That makes the home win the recommended best bet here.


Match Odds/Both Teams to Score

Despite a shortage of goals in the last few weeks, Watford are still the third highest scorers in the Championship and looking at their attacking options you feel they have plenty of goals in them.

I can certainly see them getting on the scoresheet here but looking at Fulham's experienced and talented frontline you can see the visitors' back three having a tough night in store. The stats also support this outcome - the home side have scored at least twice in each of their last eight games in all competitions, while Watford have found the net in five of their last six on the road.

That means backing Fulham to win and both teams to score looks a very good punt for those who like to chance their arm in this popular market. You can get 3.8 on this outcome over on the Sportsbook.


Recommended Bets
Back Fulham to beat Watford at 2.34 *Best Bet
Back Fulham in the Match Odds/Both Teams to Score market at 3.8 at Betfair Sportsbook



https://betting.betfair.com/football/championship/fulham-v-watford-betting-preview-and-tips-4-dec-011214-601.html?

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Bournemouth Sold Out

Tickets for our match against AFC Bournemouth at the Goldsands Stadium on Friday 26th December have now sold out.

Fulham took the full allocation available, and therefore will be backed by more than 1,325 supporters on Boxing Day.

As always, thank you for your excellent support.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/december/04/bournemouth-sold-out?

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Fulham-Watford Betting: Bryan Ruiz and Co. to have a field day against a Hornets side low in confidence

The Cottagers are looking to continue their rise up the Championship under new management, with our tipster backing goals for Kit Symons' men

Fulham and Watford clash under the lights of Craven Cottage this week, with Slavisa Jokanovic's men desperately needing a result after losing their last four games on the spin in the Championship. 

In contrast, Kit Symons' men have only lost once in their last eight matches, and have been playing well since Felix Magath left earlier this season, moving from the foot of the table to 16th, nine points from the play-off places.

Last time out the Cottagers came from behind to net two late goals to beat Brighton away, which followed up a disappointing loss away to Brentford. 888 Sport price them at 6/5 (2.20) to win on Friday.

Watford currently sit just one position outside the play-offs in seventh, but will be disappointed with their form in recent weeks, especially going nine matches with a defeat prior to their four losses in a row which has set them back a little.

Jokanovic's side have only lost by the odd goal in their last four matches, so it's only fine margins the Serbian must overcome, but there is definitely work to be done for the Hornets. 888 price them at 11/5 (3.20) to win and 23/10 (3.30) to claim a draw.

With Fulham being involved in a number of high-scoring clashes in recent weeks, it's no surprise to see the over 2.5 goals bet at 33/50 (1.66) with 888. This bet would have landed in their last eight matches, with 36 goals being scored and the bookmakers are taking no chances by offering a short price on another high-scoring game.

A price that seems to offer more value in this clash is Fulham to net over 1.5 goals at 9/10 (1.90) with 888 Sport. This bet would have landed in seven of Fulham's last eight matches, with their strike force - consisting of the likes of Bryan Ruiz, Ross McCormack and Hugo Rodallega - in great form of late.

With Watford struggling for form, conceding at least once in their last seven matches, expect the Cottagers to ease to at least two goals this Friday in what should be an entertaining spectacle. 


http://www.goal.com/en-za/news/4563/main/2014/12/04/6762022/-?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham Bent into shape

There is no doubt that the late winner away at local rivals Brentford was a real knock to the confidence for Fulham players and fans alike. Such a promising start to Kit's tenure has not been without its bumps and I fully expect there are a few more on the road ahead. Slowly but surely however, we are making our way in to the warm embrace of our old friend mid-table obscurity.

The Championship is a league where three wins on the bounce can see you rocket up the table, and equally three defeats can see you plummet into the relegation zone. It was important after the Brentford game for the players to get back to winning ways and they duly delivered on the road at Brighton.

Symon's was already due to come up against a number of familiar faces at the Amex with both David Stockdale and Aaron Hughes regularly featuring for our hosts this season. What we had not necessarily anticipated was the last minute emergency loan of Darren Bent from Aston Villa. As a man renowned for regularly scoring on his debut, as he did for Fulham last year, we all fully expected the inevitable to happen. Lo and behold a few minutes into the second half and Bent duly obliged. What we hadn't anticipated though was the same man sprinting almost the length of the pitch (A feet in itself) to cup his ear in the direction of the 3,000 strong travelling Fulham fans.

In his own words Bent said "I got a lot of stick off their supporters, which was kind of unjustified". Of course this is just one man's opinion but two league goals all season and the fact he probably scored more than he did win any headers justifies the ill feeling towards a man once described as prolific. Bent added: "Up until we got the goal I couldn't see them doing anything against us", and to be fair he was probably right. Essentially the former England man did more to inspire a Fulham win on Saturday with his provocative celebration than he did for the entirety of last season.

The travelling support was notably riled up and the whole incident seemed to have a positive effect on the team. The likes of Hugo Rodallega actively confronted their former team-mate and soon turned the game on its head with a sublime finish into the top corner. Massive credit has to be given to one of the emerging talents of the season in Lasse Vigen Christensen. The young Dane not only scored the winner, but had been instrumental in the midfield.

Our current position in the league should still have us looking over our shoulder at the likes of Brighton but another positive performance against Watford at The Cottage on Saturday and we could go into the weekend as high as 13th. By no means am I saying this is something to shout about, but spirits are high and in Darren Bent we can see the contrast in our playing staff from last season and this one.

The mercenaries and 30 some-things have largely been replaced by the young legs of players like Christensen and Hyndman, while the experienced pros we are left with such as Parker and Rodallega seem to genuinely care about the plight of the club. There is still a long way to go but another win on the road and sights are firmly fixed on the top half with three points against Watford.

COYW



http://www.shoot.co.uk/category/team/fulham-bent-into-shape/

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Duo back for Cottagers

Dan Burn and Sean Kavanagh return to the Fulham squad for the Friday night meeting with Watford.

Burn missed last Saturday's 2-1 win at Brighton through suspension after collecting five yellow cards this season and fellow defender Kavanagh is fit after a month out with a thigh injury. Manager Kit Symons has no new injury worries but is still without Adam Taggart (groin), Tim Hoogland (pelvis), Fernando Amorebieta and Jesse Jeronen (both knee). On-loan Manchester City midfielder Seko Fofana will be hoping to make his full debut after coming on as a second-half substitute at The Amex. Hornets boss Slavisa Jokanovic could make changes after a fourth straight defeat at home to Cardiff last weekend. Goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes returned for that match following a bout of tendinitis, which is just as well as back-up keeper Jonathan Bond is now a doubt with a collarbone injury. Defender Gabriel Tamas is the only other injury victim as he continues his recovery from cruciate ligament damage. Lloyd Dyer, Daniel Pudil, Fernando Forestieri and Adlene Guedioura, the recent loan signing from Crystal Palace, are pushing for starts if Jokanovic opts to change things around.



Read more at: https://www.clubcall.com/watford/duo-back-for-cottagers-1749912.html?

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Kit's Watford Preview

Kit Symons spoke of the positive frame of mind his Fulham side has going into Friday's game with Watford, but is still anticipating a stern test of their credentials.

The Hornets have slipped down the Sky Bet Championship table after losing their previous four matches, but the Whites Manager knows they'll be keen to stop the rot in front of the television cameras at Craven Cottage.

"We've got a great chance," he said in Thursday's pre-match press conference. "We're very, very confident but also we won't show any sort of complacency and we won't underestimate Watford.

"They got off to a fantastic start to the season, recent results have not been great for them but we've looked at all their games and they've played some good stuff within those games.

"They're a real threat, they've got some excellent players, so we won't be taking them lightly or underestimating them at all. But I fancy us to beat whoever we play in any game, be it home or away.

"I won't use the away thing as an excuse for not winning games, I just expect this team, this squad of players, to win every game we play in. So we're very positive going into this one."

Fulham go into the encounter on the back of a morale boosting come-from-behind victory away at Brighton & Hove Albion in their last match, but Symons insists there is a good vibe at the Club regardless of results.

"The whole Club has had a real buzz about it," he said. "A lot of the staff at the Football Club were in with our fans on Saturday and they had a great day out and a great time and it was brilliant we gave our fans something to cheer about as well.

"It's been a real positive atmosphere around the whole place, as it has been since I've taken over. Even after the odd defeat we lick our wounds and we move on pretty quickly. I like a positive atmosphere and a real hard working but upbeat environment, and that's what we've got here."

Hugo Rodallega continued his fine form this season with a brilliantly taken goal at the Amex Stadium.

It was the Colombian's eighth of the campaign and when Symons was asked if he can see the striker remaining at the Club beyond the summer, he replied: "Yeah, certainly. You want to keep your best players and he's one of our best players and he's absolutely on fire at the moment and long may that last.

"Since I've been in charge Hugo's been brilliant. He's playing his football with a great big smile on his face which is the way I like the game to be played.

"So he's an obvious one to pick out but the response from everyone, I've got to say, all the players, has been excellent. We've got a lot of talent, we've got craft, we've got guile and we've got people who can put their foot in as well. Balance is a huge thing for me in football and we've got a good balance within our squad."

The victory in Falmer at the weekend was the seventh under Symons' guidance in all competitions, and although he's pleased with the progress, he insists there is still a long way to go.

"Everything's been fantastic," he admitted. "The response from everyone, I couldn't have asked for more. We've got off to a good start but we've actually achieved nothing as of yet.

"It's been a good positive start but it needs to continue. We've set the standards but we need to continually raise the bar in my opinion and that's something that will be a big ask to do but I'm confident that we can do it.

"I've got a set way I like to work. The three things that are written at the bottom of every presentation in every meeting are trust, honesty and belief. Those are the three things that I've really tried to push within the whole Football Club.

"I think if you can live your life and do your training linked into those three things you're going to be in a pretty good place, and that's where we are at the moment."

In the press conference, Symons was asked how pleased Mr Khan was with his Club's recent form, and he stated: "I speak to him regularly, we have a once-a-week conference call and he's really pleased with the way things are going which I'm pleased about as well, obviously.

"He's delighted – there's good things happening here and, like I say, we got off to a good solid start in my tenure but we've actually achieved nothing as of yet so we've got a lot of hard work left to do still, but everyone's very committed, everyone's pulling together. It's a really tight, really united football club, and it's great to see."

Tickets are still available for the match against Watford at Craven Cottage on Friday evening, priced from £30 for adults and £15 for juniors (rising by £5 on the day of the game).


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/december/04/kits-watford-preview?

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Fulham welcome one back for Watford - but there's grim news for Fernando Amorebieta

Sean Kavanagh returns for Hornets clash while Venezulean could face 'long time' out


Fit again: Sean Kavanagh
Fulham welcome back defender Sean Kavanagh for the home clash with Watford tomorrow - but there is more bad news for Fernando Amorebieta.

The injury-hit player is the subject of prolonged analysis on his damaged knee that may result in surgery and a 'long time' out according to boss Kit Symons.

The Venezuelan international went down during the 2-0 defeat to Middlesbrough on October 4, returned a month later against Blackpool, and lasted only 44 minutes.

"We've had a setback with Fernando, and we're getting someone else to look at him now," said the manager. "We're a bit concerned. We've got a couple of options. One's conservative involving rehab, and the other is more complicated, and could involve surgery and he could be a long time out."


Hurt: Fernando Amorebieta
On the plus front, defender Tim Hoogland is closer to a return from a pelvis problem - but not before the home clash with Sheffield Wednesday on December 20 at the earliest.

"Tim we're quite positive about," added Symons. "He's had an injection, and we'll know more in seven to 10 days, but Sean travelled with the squad to Brighton last week. He wasn't quite ready for the match, but he's had a week now to get back to full fitness."

There may also be a start for on-loan Seko Fofana.

The dynamic 19-year-old midfielder from Manchester City came on as a sub in the 2-1 win at Brighton, and Symons is expecting more.

"I spoke to the guys at Man City and to Seko's agent, and he's come with a view to get game time," added the boss.

"He had become comfortable playing U21 football, and that's never very good for a young player. They need to be challenged, and this is a big step for him, but he's always impress me and step up to the plate."



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-welcome-one-back-watford-8228122?

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Former Fulham, QPR and West Ham star leaves Arlesey Town

PARTING WAYS: Rufus Brevett and Arlesey chairman Manny Cohen

Rufus Brevett has left his role as manager and director of football of Arlesey Town FC.

The 45-year-old former Fulham captain was appointed just a year ago but as results this season have been disappointing in the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division, Brevett and the club have, by mutual agreement, ended his role at the club with immediate effect.

Chairman Manny Cohen said: "It is with regret that the club and Rufus are parting. He joined the club during a period of turmoil after the unforeseen abrupt departure of the previous management team. Rufus brought a fresh approach to the footballing aspect of the club, one which I firmly believe will improve the club in the long run.

"The club has ambitious plans for the future and we recognise that football is at the heart of this. Rufus is one of the nicest people in the game and is well liked and respected by all. However, in the game today, we are judged by our results. We thank Rufus for all his work during his time at Arlesey Town Football Club and wish him and his management team of Bobby Watson and Cliff Angol all the best for the future."

The club is actively seeking a replacement.



Read more: http://www.hertfordshiremercury.co.uk/Fulham-star-leaves-Arlesey-Town/story-25151413-detail/story.html?#ixzz3KwrtfFki
Follow us: @HertsMercury on Twitter

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Fulham v Watford

Dan Burn and Sean Kavanagh return to the Fulham squad for the visit of Watford on Friday.

Burn is clear of suspension, while fellow defender Kavanagh has recovered from a thigh injury.

Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes has recovered from tendinitis and is available, but reserve keeper Jonathan Bond (collarbone) is a doubt.

Defender Gabriel Tamas remains out of contention because of cruciate ligament damage.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head
This is the first meeting since a goalless draw at Craven Cottage in the Premier League on New Year's Day 2007.

Fulham are unbeaten in the last six encounters in all competitions, winning three. Watford's last win was 2-1 at Craven Cottage in the old Division Two in May 1998.

Fulham have won two and drawn one of the last three meetings at Craven Cottage in all competitions, scoring seven goals and conceding none.

Fulham
They have lost only one of their last eight games in the Championship. Their only league defeat since early October was 2-1 at Brentford on 21 November.

Kit Symons's side have won four of their last five home games in the Championship, drawing one. Their last defeat in the league at home was 1-0 against Blackburn on 20 September.

Watford
They have lost their last four games, after going unbeaten in their previous nine games.

Watford have not won any of their last three away games, losing the last two. Their last win on the road was 3-0 at Sheffield Wednesday on 18 October.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/30241297

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham v Watford: Three Hornets who could sting the Cottagers

We identify a visiting trio who could cause problems for Kit Symons' side


Star striker: Matej Vydra
Watford might have lost their last four games but there is a Hornets striker with Premier League experience ready to sting Fulham.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side arrive at Craven Cottage in wretched form and has seen them slide from the top of the Championship table to seventh.

But according to Frank Smith from the Watford Observer, it's not all doom and gloom at Vicarage Road and it won't be long before the Hornets are flying again.

And he believes on-loan Udinese striker Matej Vydra , who spent the last campaign in the Premier League with West Brom, is the man to get them going - starting against Fulham on Friday night.

Vydra is back at Vicarage Road two years after his first spell at the club that saw him named Championship player of the season.

Smith said: "On his day he is probably the best striker in the division and although he hasn't scored for a bit, he got six goals in nine games.

"Although he's not at his sharpest, if Fulham give him space in behind they might see how clinical he can be."

Smith's second choice is Swiss midfielder Almen Abdi, who arrived at the club at the start of last season on a free following a successful loan spell.


Action Images
getting back to fitness: Almen Abdi

The 28-year-old missed a lot of the last campaign with injury and has only just come from a shoulder problem this term.

Smith added: "He's not 100 per cent and fully firing but he's pretty influential in the way they play.

Daniel Tozser has been an ever-present in the Championship this season and the Hungarian international has the ability to open up Fulham's defence says Smith.


Action Images
Decent passer: Daniel Tozser (right)

"Tozser's got a decent range of passing and on his day he's the one that makes Watford tick," he added.

"He's great with set pieces but at times in recent games the opposition has worked hard to nullify him and, like Watford, he's not playing at his best at the moment."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-v-watford-three-hornets-8228637?

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Kit Symons gives Fulham injury update ahead of Watford clash in Championship

Kit Symons says that there are no new injuries for Fulham ahead of the Championship clash against Watford.

Fulham manager Kit Symons has confirmed that there are no fresh injuries ahead of the clash against Watford on Friday.

Tim Hoogland, Fernando Amorebieta and Jesse Joronen are the three long-term injuries, as Symons has all the other players available for the Championship match at Craven Cottage.

"There's no short term injuries, just longer term ones," Fulham's official website quotes the 43-year-old as saying. "So Tim Hoogland's still unavailable, Fernando Amorebieta's still unavailable, and Jesse Joronen, so nothing new."

Symons also had news related to defender Sean Kavanagh, who has not featured in a competitive match for Fulham since late October.

"Sean's just coming back from injury," he said. "He travelled with the squad last Saturday [at Brighton] but he'd only done a few days full training so he wasn't quite ready. He's done full training again this week, so he's fit."

Fulham are currently 16th in the Championship table with 22 points from 19 matches, just four points above the relegation zone.


http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/12/04/kit-symons-gives-fulham-injury-update-ahead-of-watford-clash-in/?

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Rodallega is key - Symonds

Fulham boss Kit Symons hopes to keep Hugo Rodallega at the club beyond the end of the season.

The Colombian striker has emerged as a key figure in Fulham's revival under Symons, scoring eight goals so far this term, but he will be out of contract in the summer. "You want to keep your best players and he's one of our best players and he's absolutely on fire at the moment and long may that last," said Symons. "Since I've been in charge Hugo's been brilliant. He's playing his football with a great big smile on his face which is the way I like the game to be played. "So he's an obvious one to pick out but the response from everyone, I've got to say, all the players, has been excellent."

Fulham host Watford on Friday night looking for an eighth win since Symons took over following their disastrous start to the season under Felix Magath. The Hornets, by contrast, have lost their last four matches to slip from top spot to seventh, but Symons is still predicting a tough test. "We're very, very confident but also we won't show any sort of complacency and we won't underestimate Watford," added Symons at his pre-match press conference.

"They got off to a fantastic start to the season. Recent results have not been great for them but we've looked at all their games and they've played some good stuff within those games. "They're a real threat, they've got some excellent players, so we won't be taking them lightly. But I fancy us to beat whoever we play in any game, be it home or away."

Despite their wretched run, the Hornets are still only six points behind leaders Derby. Head coach Slavisa Jokanovic said: "We have not had good results over the last four games and it's our obligation to stop that run. "This competition is long and tough with many important games in front of us, and we are still very close to the top of the table."



Read more at: https://www.clubcall.com/watford/rodallega-is-key---symonds-1749925.html?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham: The change under Kit

The opening segment to Fulham's season was quite a horrific one to say the least – thanks to picking up only the solitary point after seven games.

Felix Magath's controversial reign left the Whites rooted to the foot of the second division, after being widely tipped to secure automatic promotion following relegation.

Shahid Khan decided to wield the sharpest of axes towards the wacky German, kickstarting a new and positive chapter on the Thames.

Temporary

As a rapid change of fortunes swung into full gear, the worry amongst fans was that of only a temporary reaction, known as the 'new manager effect'.

Three wins in his first four games in charge gave Symons the much needed support of the faithful, and dabbled sceptics with the tendency to admit wrongdoing.

Stats are a handy tool of explanation, and the form table since the former Under-21 manager's entrance would leave the Cottagers in a play-off position.

However, one would imagine that if he had been at the helm since August, a few questions would be asked about his ability to gain the much coveted promotion.

In a sense, Magath's destruction has left him with quite the hand, having encountered a path which could only lead forward.

Issues

Being a pessimist, I do find myself niggling away at little annoyances that I find with Kit and his methods.

One of these include his inability to make substitutions in situations where a change is clearly needed.

An example being the Capital One Cup tie against Derby, where a 2-0 lead was surrendered, ending in complete capitulation and a 5-2 loss.

For me, it shows signs of naivety and rustiness in a top managerial role, which is totally understandable – with this being his first.

Tactically he can be relatively astute, but in-game, he seems to lack the confidence or guile to take risks, erring too often on the side of caution.

Unstable

Unfortunately for Symons, he has inherited a relatively unstable back four, causing headaches on more than one occasion.

The 2-1 loss to rivals Brentford showcased the worrying number of indiscretions being executed by certain players.

Chopping and changing does not help, and I feel the inconsistency is part of the current problem.

Errors at the back have cost the side a handful of points this season, and it will hopefully be something he will focus on come January.

Atmosphere

Despite my inevitable tendency to indulge in criticism, the atmosphere surrounding the players and fans is a healthy one.

It is clear that the transition has been made from temporary, to what seems a permanent effect upon fortunes, quashing a number of worries.

Under Magath, everything felt tense and corrosive, with the prominent premonition that the players did not want to play for a 'dictator'.

The squad seem to enjoy their minutes on the pitch, with a strong aura of relaxation surrounding performances.

Change

After momentarily derailing on our treacherous path towards success, proceedings finally look to be back on track in SW6.

A wealth of young talent currently swamps the green of Motspur Park, indicating that the future indeed looks bright.

Time will tell as to whether this form can be maintained, creating the bandwagon for a possible play-off position come May.

Sticking it to the attention hungry Darren Bent, and his strange urge to cup his ears in sub zero temperatures, has boosted morale for sure, and long may it breed.


http://www.touchlinetalk.com/fulham-change-kit/109488/?

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'Hugo Rodallega is one of our best players!' Kit Symons wants striker to stay at Fulham
Hugo Rodallega has scored eight goals for Fulham this season
The Colombian striker is out of contract in the summer
But manager Kit Symons wants to keep him at Craven Cottage
Fulham take on Watford on Friday night in the Championship
Symons is looking for his eighth win since taking over from Felix Magath

Fulham boss Kit Symons hopes to keep Hugo Rodallega at the club beyond the end of the season.

The Colombian striker has emerged as a key figure in Fulham's revival under Symons, scoring eight goals so far this term, but he will be out of contract in the summer.

'You want to keep your best players and he's one of our best players and he's absolutely on fire at the moment and long may that last,' said Symons.

'Since I've been in charge Hugo's been brilliant. He's playing his football with a great big smile on his face which is the way I like the game to be played.


Hugo Rodallega is congratulated by his team-mates after scoring against Brighton


The Fulham striker, who has scored eight goals this season, is out of contract in the summer

'So he's an obvious one to pick out but the response from everyone, I've got to say, all the players, has been excellent.'

Fulham host Watford on Friday night looking for an eighth win since Symons took over following their disastrous start to the season under Felix Magath.

The Hornets, by contrast, have lost their last four matches to slip from top spot to seventh, but Symons is still predicting a tough test.

'We're very, very confident but also we won't show any sort of complacency and we won't underestimate Watford,' added Symons at his pre-match press conference.


Fulham boss Kit Symons is hoping he can convince the striker to extend his stay with the west London club


Rodallega holds off the challenge of Aaron Hughes during the match at the Amex Stadium on Saturday

'They got off to a fantastic start to the season. Recent results have not been great for them but we've looked at all their games and they've played some good stuff within those games.

'They're a real threat, they've got some excellent players, so we won't be taking them lightly. But I fancy us to beat whoever we play in any game, be it home or away.'

Despite their wretched run, the Hornets are still only six points behind leaders Derby.

Head coach Slavisa Jokanovic said: 'We have not had good results over the last four games and it's our obligation to stop that run.

'This competition is long and tough with many important games in front of us, and we are still very close to the top of the table.'


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2861419/Hugo-Rodallega-one-best-players-Kit-Symons-wants-striker-stay-Fulham.html#ixzz3KzlWdcle
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook

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Felix Magath to hold talks over Bosnia managerial position
• Former Fulham manager to meet selectors on Friday
• Bosnia role vacant since Safet Susic's sacking
• Fulham say farewell to Magath's crazy world

The former Fulham and Wolfsburg manager Felix Magath is to hold talks with the Bosnia-Herzegovina over the vacancy at the helm of their national team.

According to SportSport.ba, Magath will meet with a panel of selectors to discuss the managerial role, which became available last month after poor results in Euro 2016 qualifying led to the sacking of Safet Susic, who had led Bosnia to their first World Cup last summer.

Magath is the latest of several names to have been linked with the position, with Dragan Okuka, Blaz Sliskovic, Mehmed Bazdarevic, Faruk Hadzibegic, Amar Osim and the former Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac all thought to have met with the panel.

The German would be the most high-profile candidate yet and has been unemployed since 18 September, when he was sacked by Fulham after a disastrous start to the Championship season. Originally brought in to drag the ailing Craven Cottage side out of a Premier League relegation battle last February, he instead oversaw a 19th-placed finish and his reign became best known for eccentricities that apparently included the use of cheese to treat an injury sustained by Brede Hangeland.

Should Magath take the Bosnian position he would at least be faced with an instant reminder of happier times. When his Wolfsburg side memorably won the Bundesliga in 2008-09, the Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko, who is Bosnia's captain and all-time leading goalscorer, was indispensable to their success with 26 league goals.

Whoever does replace Susic will face a daunting task in qualifying Bosnia for the European Championship. A 3-0 defeat in Israel, which sealed Susic's fate, left them six points behind second-placed Wales in Group B and four adrift of Cyprus, whose third place would bring a play-off spot.


http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/dec/04/felix-magath-bosnia-herzegovina-fulham?

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Joel Turner previews Watford's opponents on Friday - Fulham

Fulham endured a dismal start to life in the Championship, with no wins and seven losses in their opening eight matches; conceding 19 goals in the process.

But after the sacking of former manager Felix Magath and the installation of Kit Symons as his successor, The Cottagers have started to climb up the table, sitting in 16th with 19 games played.

Fulham recorded their first away win since September 27 in their last outing - a 2-1 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion at the AmEx Stadium.

Despite going behind courtesy of former Fulham striker Darren Bent's goal, strikes from Hugo Rodallega and Lasse Vigen Christensen ensured the club would be returning to London with the three points.

Back at Craven Cottage results have been a lot more consistent under Symons; the side have lost just one home game with him in charge – his first match as caretaker manager against Blackburn Rovers.

Since then, Fulham have recorded four wins and a draw in their five home games, as well as keeping three clean sheets in the process. In both home and away fixtures The Cottagers have lost just once in their last eight games - a 2-1 defeat to rivals Brentford at Griffin Park.

Leading the club's scoring charts is Hugo Rodallega, who has managed eight goals for Fulham so far this season - all of which have come in the Championship.

Trailing the Colombian is record signing Ross McCormack, who has five goals to his name (four in the league, one in the League Cup) since joining from Leeds United for a fee which could eventually rise to £11m.

Fulham find themselves out of the Capital One Cup after a 5-2 loss to Derby County, but did manage to eliminate Doncaster Rovers, the side who knocked out Watford, in the process. In addition to these results, the club secured a 1-0 victory against Brentford in the second round; the only win ex-boss Magath was able to record in the 2014/15 campaign.

The Cottagers have not lost to Watford since 1998, recording three wins and three draws in the process. Friday's match will mark the first time the two clubs have met since 2007, when the two played out a 0-0 draw on New Year's Day in the Premier League.

In team news, Symons will be able to call upon defender Sean Kavanagh after he recovered from an injury sustained against Derby County in October. The Whites will be without defenders Fernando Amorebieta (knee) and Tim Hoogland (pelvis), both of whom are out with longer term injuries.

Fulham Starting XI vs Brighton and Hove Albion (29/11/14): Bettinelli; Grimmer, Bodurov, Hutchinson, Stafylidis; Parker, Christensen, Hyndman, Ruiz; Rodallega, McCormack.


http://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/sport/watfordfc/watfordfcnews/11647036._/?

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Charity Partnerships

Fulham Football Club is delighted to announce today two charity partnerships with Prostate Cancer UK and local children's hospice charity Shooting Star Chase for the next two seasons.

As part of the partnership, Fulham FC and the Fulham FC Foundation will join Men United and stand side by side with Prostate Cancer UK, the Club's national partner, to confront a disease that kills one man every hour. It will also continue its affiliation with Shooting Star Chase, which cares for 650 families in London and Surrey, as the Club's regional partner.

The Club and its Foundation will kick-off their support ahead of Friday evening's televised clash against Watford with a pre-match photo opportunity involving representatives from all three organisations to officially launch the partnerships.

Through a structured programme and key events planned across the 2014/15 and 2015/16 campaigns, Fulham FC will engage with its supporters to help raise awareness and funds as well as endorsing the valued work carried out in the community by both Prostate Cancer UK and Shooting Star Chase.

Some of the fundraising activities planned, kicking-off on February 8th with the Craven Cottage 10K run, will help support the Fulham FC Foundation in their aim to build better lives through sport.

Last year more than 100 runners took in the picturesque pathways along the banks of the River Thames and crossed several iconic bridges. This season money raised from the event will be split between Prostate Cancer UK and FFCF.

Steven Day, Chief Executive Officer for the Foundation, said: "Fulham FC Foundation is delighted to announce our continued partnership with Shooting Star Chase.  I am also thrilled to add our new National Charity Partner, Prostate Cancer UK. Our three charities will work closely together over the next two seasons and we look forward to engaging with our fans over this time."

Mark Bishop, Director of Fundraising for Prostate Cancer UK, said: "This is a wonderful opportunity to continue our groundbreaking work within the beautiful game, standing side by side with one of the country's most iconic clubs.

"Men United is about men joining together to fight a common opponent – prostate cancer. One man dies every hour from this disease but it's been proven by taking this issue to terraces up and down the land that we are starting to make a difference.

"The power of sport – and in this case football – has helped us reach out to men and their friends and families, and by wearing our Man of Men on their numbers this season, Fulham's players have already started to play their part.

"With an exciting programme of activities set for the next two seasons, including the Craven Cottage 10k run in February, we want to have a lasting impact on and off the pitch and supporting the 250,000 men living with prostate cancer in the UK."

David Burland, Chief Executive at Shooting Star CHASE, said: "We are delighted to have the support of Fulham FC for another two seasons. Whether lives are measured in days, weeks, months or years we aim to make every moment count for local children and their families going through unimaginable circumstances. Fulham Football Club has played a crucial role in helping us raise vital funds for our care service since our partnership began in 2012 and we're excited about keeping the team together for the future."

More details on the Craven Cottage 10k will be announced later this month and a number of further fundraising activities will be announced during the season.

These will include a Men United match day at a First Team fixture at Craven Cottage in spring with proceeds going to Prostate Cancer UK, while Fulham and their Football League contemporaries will saddle up for the London to Amsterdam Cycle Challenge in June raising money for Prostate Cancer UK (see http://prostatecanceruk.org/amsterdam for more details). The Club will also be looking to organise another All Stars match at Craven Cottage in May with proceeds split between Shooting Star Chase and Fulham FC Foundation.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/december/05/charity-partnerships?

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Preview: Fulham v Watford

Watford head coach Slavisa Jokanovic is expected to make changes after watching his side suffer a fourth consecutive defeat at the hands of Cardiff City last weekend.

Heurelho Gomes started in goal during that match at Vicarage Road, despite suffering with tendinitis beforehand. His return proved timely as back-up stopper Jonathan Bond (collarbone) is now a doubt.

Gabriel Tamas (knee) is the Hornets' only other absentee; the defender is continuing his recovery after damaging his cruciate ligament.

Lloyd Dyer, Daniel Pudil, Fernando Forestieri and Adlene Guedioura, a recent loan signing from Crystal Palace, will all be hoping to be promoted from the bench should Jokanovic opt to shake-up his squad.

Fulham boss Kit Symons will welcome back Dan Burn and Sean Kavanagh for Friday night's Championship clash.

Burn was absent for last Saturday's 2-1 win at Brighton and Hove Albion through suspension after collecting five yellow cards this season, while Kavanagh has re-gained his fitness after a month on the sidelines with a thigh injury.

However, Symons is still unable to call on the services of Adam Taggart (groin), Tim Hoogland (pelvis), Fernando Amorebieta and Jesse Jeronen (both knee).


http://www.forzawatford.com/2014/12/05/preview-fulham-v-watford/3409?