Saturday Fulham Stuff (25/04/15)...

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Aitor Karanka: 'We need to win both games - we can't make more mistakes'

But Boro head coach insists his side are not under pressure going into Fulham game

Boro are not under pressure and have nothing to lose going into tomorrow's crunch game at Fulham insists Aitor Karanka.

With two games to go, it's incredibly tight at the top of the Championship.

Leaders Watford are one point better off than second-placed Bournemouth and third-placed Boro, who are both on 84 points.

Karanka believes all the pressure is on the top two because his team have achieved their stated pre-season target of a play-off place and anything else is a bonus.

"We are not under pressure because we are third so we don't have anything to lose," he said.

"Our objective at the beginning of the season was to get into the play-offs and we did that two weeks ago so the pressure is not for us."

The Boro boss knows, however, that failing to beat Fulham will end his side's hopes of finishing in the top two.

In fact, he believes six points from the final two scheduled fixtures is a minimum requirement.

"We have to win," he said. "We made mistakes against Bournemouth and Watford and now we can't make more mistakes.

"We need to win both games and we are working to beat Fulham on Saturday and then we will prepare for Brighton."


http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aitor-karanka-we-need-win-9103908?

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Next Up: Middlesbrough

Fulham entertain Middlesbrough in the final Craven Cottage match of the season and will be hoping to put a dent in the visitors' automatic promotion charge.


The opposition

Heading into the season Middlesbrough were one of many sides tipped to make a challenge for the Play-Off positions, following Aitor Karanka's solid start to life in the Championship in 2013/14.

The first month of the new season was somewhat unspectacular for Boro as they struggled to find any consistency in the early stages, suffering home defeats to Sheffield Wednesday and Reading in that time.

But they quickly moved on from those losses to begin their charge towards the top end of the table as they went on a seven-match unbeaten run, thrashing Brentford 4-0 and also dispatching the Whites 2-0 at the Riverside, lifting them from 16th to third.

Defeat at Wolverhampton Wanderers in October only sparked another good run of form, this time going eight matches without defeat. This included a 3-0 win over Rotherham United, a 5-1 thrashing of Millwall, and victories over promotion rivals Norwich City (4-0) and Derby County (2-0), taking them joint-top before they were beaten at Ipswich Town.

As has been the case all season, the reaction to defeat was once again positive, going on a nine-game unbeaten run this time in the league and also knocking out Premier League Champions Manchester City in the FA Cup at the Etihad.

The Teesiders suffered a blip in form as the league entered spring, losing at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest before bouncing back with wins over fellow contenders Ipswich and Derby.

Karanka's side then suffered a dent to their promotion bid with defeats to rivals Bournemouth and Watford, but three wins in as many matches going into Saturday's game – including last time out at Norwich – sees them sit third in the table with two games to go, with just goal difference keeping them out of the automatic places.

Team news

Karanka is likely to be without Jonathan Woodgate who has a hamstring problem and could miss the rest of the season, while they will certainly be without Tomas Kalas whose loan spell from Chelsea expired this week. Patrick Bamford is a doubt, as is fellow striker Jelle Vossen who was injured last time out against Norwich. They may also be without Albert Adomah who is still feeling the effects of the injury he picked up at Wolves 10 days ago.

The opposition

Goalkeeper Dimi Konstantopoulos is wary of a Fulham side looking to finish their home campaign off on a positive note.

"We know it's not going to be easy and it's their last game of the season at home so they will want to finish on a high. As I said, it's up to us to show our abilities again and carry on our form and get the win," he told mfc.co.uk.

"No games are easy in the Championship; we've seen that in the past. You can play against Blackpool and they'll give you a game if you give them the time and space they will hurt you."

Boro sit third in the table with two to play and the squad know they need to win both to give themselves the best chance of promotion.

"We need to win at Fulham and win our last game," said the keeper. "That's the only thing we can control at the minute because obviously apart from that it's still not up to us.

"If we do our bit and go into those games ready and get the three points then we'll hope for a slip up from the other two teams and hopefully we'll be there.

"I said to the boys before Norwich that if we win then we'd be saying the same about the Fulham game. It's another big one, but we have two very big ones and have to make sure we win them both."

Player to watch

Grant Leadbitter: Born in County Durham, Grant Leadbitter joined the Sunderland academy at the age of 16 and it didn't take long for the midfielder to break through into the first-team set-up, making his debut at 17. Leadbitter was loaned out to Rotherham in the 2005/06 season, but following his brief spell with the Millers became a regular in the Premier League later that season under Mick McCarthy. The Black Cats were relegated that term but Leadbitter stayed with the club he supported as a boy and was an integral part of the promotion winning side under Roy Keane, finishing as third top scorer from midfielder with seven goals. He continued to be a regular back in the top flight for the following two campaigns before he moved to Championship side Ipswich for a reported fee of £2.6m to rejoin Keane. He was a regular for the Tractor Boys and clocked up over 100 appearances in his three-year spell, but couldn't agree a new contract with the Suffolk side. It was in the summer of 2012 that Leadbitter returned to the North-East, joining Middlesbrough on a free transfer. He won the player of the season award in his first year and has been one of the first names on the team sheet since his arrival. A box-to-box midfielder, full of energy, Leadbitter has a powerful shot from range and is not afraid to throw himself into a tackle.

Marathonbet match odds

Fulham: 43/10

Draw: 57/20

Middlesbrough: 3/4

Tickets for Saturday's game are priced at just £25 for adults and £5 for juniors in all areas of the ground. Prices increase by £5 on matchday.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/april/24/next-up-middlesbrough?

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U18s' Norwich Trip

Fulham Under-18s travel to Norwich City on Saturday (12pm) in the Final Stage of the Barclays U18 Premier League.

Both sides will be playing for pride as neither can catch Group 3 leaders Blackburn Rovers with just two games remaining in the season.

The Whites sit fourth in the table after five games, and are unbeaten in three, all of which ended in draws. Last time out two penalties from Aaron Redford saw the home side come back twice to earn a point against Bolton Wanderers at Motspur Park.

The visitors come into the game on the back of three straight defeats and are without a win in four since beating Arsenal in early March. The Canaries were beaten 4-2 at leaders Blackburn last time out.

The sides have already met twice this season in the Group Stage of the league. The tie at Colney Training Centre ended in a 2-1 victory for the Whites thanks to goals from Redford and Mattias Kait, while the reverse fixture at Motspur ended in a 1-1 draw, with Tayo Edun notching for the home team.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/april/24/u18s-norwich-trip?

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Forty Years On

Forty years after Fulham reached the FA Cup Final, we pay tribute to the 'Boys of 75' and Alec Stock in Saturday's matchday programme against Middlesbrough.

Fulham's epic 11-game run to Wembley didn't end with victory against West Ham United - but it was a heck of an achievement for a Division Two side. It remains Fulham's only-ever appearance at the national stadium.

From three games with Hull City, four against Nottingham Forest, a giant-killing victory at Division One leaders Everton, a backs-to-the-wall win at top-flight Carlisle United and the never-to-be forgotten Semi-Finals with Birmingham City, the journey had just about everything. There was even a court case on the morning of the Final!

With Alec's daughter Sarah providing the foreword in the special A4-sized programme, we also hear from Les Strong, Les Barrett, John Mitchell, John Lacy, John Fraser and coaches Ken Craggs and John Collins as they cast their minds back to that momentous season.

We also remember the man who led Fulham there in Stock - and Rodney Marsh pays homage to the best manager he ever played for.

As well as all that, your regular matchday programme brings exclusive interviews with Chairman Shahid Khan, Kit Symons, Scott Parker, James Husband and Bob Mortimer.

Parker assesses a disappointing season for the Whites but believes valuable lessons have been learnt this term that will stand Fulham in good stead for the future.

"We can try and dress it up as much as we want but the people at Fulham, whether that be the owner, Kit or the players, we're all disappointed with how it's panned out," Parker tells the official matchday programme.

"The vision we had at the start of the campaign certainly wasn't what has happened. But, like in life, in times of struggles that's when you learn the most. Hopefully we've learnt a lot this year, we've realised where mistakes have been made and we'll never repeat them again.

"We all know now that it's a difficult league and it's given us an understanding of what this division is about. We've got a lot of young players who haven't played in this league before so if they didn't have an idea of what it was about before, they certainly do now. A year down the line, that will have benefitted them. Even the older players, aside from one or two, we're not a squad full of players that had played regularly in the Championship before and I include myself in that.

"But this season has given us an idea of exactly what's expected and how demanding a division it is. I'm sure we'll be addressing that and not making the same mistakes that we have done at times this year."

Other exclusive highlights in the only matchday magazine that matters - which is also available to download digitally from 9am on Saturday - are:

Chairman Khan on his plans for next season
Symons pens his regular programme notes
On-loan Middlesbrough man James Husband tackles your questions via our social media channels
Comedy legend Mortimer on following Boro down the years
We recall the other cup final of 1975 – an Anglo-Scottish clash with Middlesbrough
In our regular feature, we conclude our walk back down memory lane to the 1981/82 promotion-winning season
And matchday commentator Gentleman Jim provides his final column of the campaign

Priced £4, the special edition A4-sized, 84-page publication is available from various sellers on Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Or order it online from ProgrammeMaster.

For just £1.99, the programme is also available as a digital download with added video content from 9am on Saturday, so whether you're at home or away, you need never be without it on your iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, PC or Mac via Apple's Newsstand or Pocketmags.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/april/24/forty-years-on?

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Matchfile: Fulham v Boro - all you need to know ahead of tomorrow's big game

Boro head to Craven Cottage for their final away game of the campaign :: Here are the facts and stats that matter ahead of the game

Another crucial weekend of Championship football.

Boro are looking to continue their superb recent run of form by picking up three points at Craven Cottage as Karanka's side look to keep their automatic promotion dreams alive.

It's been a year to forget for the Cottagers who, despite being expected to challenge for promotion, have spent the vast majority of the season at the wrong end of the table.

Here's all you need to know ahead of the crunch Championship clash:

Probable line-ups

Injury news
Aitor Karanka is sweating on the fitness of key trio Patrick Bamford, Jelle Vossen and Albert Adomah ahead of tomorrow's clash.

All three are struggling with ankle problems, with Bamford and Vossen both substituted at Norwich last weekend following their knocks.

Jelle Vossen after sustaining an injury before being substituted

Adomah sustained his injury against Wolves, but aggravated it at Carrow Road - and Karanka is unsure whether any of the three will be fit enough to start at Craven Cottage.

Tomas Kalas's loan deal has ended, while Jonathan Woodgate (hamstring), Rhys Williams (Achilles) and Damia Abella (cruciate) are sidelined.

The thoughts of the boss
"As an assistant or a player, I was never in this position, but I think it is good for everybody, especially when our aim at the beginning of the season was to get to the play-offs and we achieved that.

"It's exciting because when you're playing to achieve something it is exciting. I think it's worse to play to avoid relegation but when you are playing to achieve something it is always amazing.

Aitor Karanka

"I try to forget the table because it is just one game. If we are in this position it is because we deserve to be in this position.

"At Norwich, the atmosphere in the changing room after the game was amazing but they all know we haven't done anything special yet.

"It is going to be a very tough game because Fulham are now safe and have very good players so when these kind of players are playing without pressure it is going to be a very tough game for us."

Opposition's view
Former Darlington defender Dan Burn is hoping to crush Boro's automatic promotion hopes tomorrow.

The towering 6ft 7in centre-back made his Football League debut at the Quakers in 2009, before moving to Craven Cottage.

Dan Burn

"The pressure is a little bit off but we're not going to take our foot off the pedal," Burn told the club's website.

"We're working hard making sure that we can try and scupper Middlesbrough and Norwich's chances of going up. It's been a bad season, so let's brush it under the carpet and start again properly next season."

Their man in the know - Paul Warburton, GetWestLondon
"Kit Symons said Fulham were 'limping' towards the end of the season and that description fits it rather well.

"They've had moments and spells in games when they've done OK, but some other spells have been disastrous.

"In the last two home matches against Rotherham and Wigan they could have conceded six goals in each. They probably should have been behind against Blackpool too.

"If Boro go gung-ho in the first 10 minutes of the match then they could crack Fulham's resistance early on."

Who's the dangerman?
It's not often a goalkeeper is named the danger man, but Fulham stopper Marcus Bettinelli stands in the way of Boro's automatic promotion hopes.

In what has been a drab season at Craven Cottage, the 22-year-old has been a rare beacon of hope for Fulham.

Fulham's Marcus Bettinelli

He has burst onto the scene in West London and made the No 1 jersey his own, dislodging Maarten Stekelenburg and David Stockdale between the posts.

His eye-catching displays have also seen him linked with a big-money move to Chelsea this summer - and Boro must find a way past the English star tomorrow afternoon.

What's the form?
Three straight victories have seen Boro hit form at the perfect time - and they're waiting dangerously in the wings for an automatic promotion spot.

With only two matches remaining, Aitor Karanka's side are confident that a six-point return will see them finish in the top two - with the pressure on Watford and Bournemouth not to slip up.

Last weekend's win at Norwich was a crucial one for the promotion race, but also because it halted Boro's recent slide away from the Riverside.

Before the Carrow Road masterclass, Boro had lost four of their last five on the road - including drab defeats at both the Hornets and the Cherries.

Overall, the Teessiders are in a good place having kept four clean sheets in their last seven. Goals will be the order of the day at Craven Cottage, however, and Boro have averaged only one per game in that time.

Fulham's first season in the Championship has been a disaster, with the Cottagers set to avoid relegation by the skin of their teeth.

The club won one of their opening nine matches, leaving them bottom of the division and costing Felix Magath his job.

Step in Kit Symons, and the Cottagers won four of their next five - their only defeat coming at the Riverside in October.

But it's been a season of struggle. Fulham have won two of their last 10 matches, leaking 18 goals in that time.

They've received some heavy beatings on home soil this season, including 5-1 to Bournemouth, 4-1 to Brentford and 5-0 to Watford.

BORO'S LAST FIVE

Apr 17 (a) NORWICH W 1-0

Apr 15 (h) WOLVES W 2-1

Apr 11 (h) ROTHERHAM W 2-0

Apr 6 (a) WATFORD L 0-2

Apr 3 (h) WIGAN W 1-0

Last five aways: 1-0, 0-2, 0-3, 1-0, 1-2

FULHAM'S LAST FIVE

Apr 18 (a) BLACKPOOL W 1-0

Apr 15 (h) ROTHERHAM D 1-1

Apr 10 (h) WIGAN D 2-2

Apr 7 (a) CHARLTON D 1-1

Apr 3 (h) BRENTFORD L 1-4

Last five homes: 1-1, 2-2, 1-4, 0-3, 1-5

Mark Schwarzer played for both Boro and Fulham

Players to wear both shirts
The following have played for both Boro and Fulham: Nicky Bailey, Arthur Brown, Jacky Carr, Mark Crossley, Jonathan Greening, Sean Kavanagh (Boro triallist), George Malcolm, Franck Queudrue, Mark Schwarzer (pictured), Mark Taylor, Willie Wardrope.

Coaching connections: George Armstrong, Don Mackay, Bob Dennison, Mike Kelly.


http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/matchfile-fulham-v-boro---9108556?

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Parker set to return

Scott Parker could return to the Fulham squad for the visit of promotion-chasing Middlesbrough.

Veteran midfielder Parker was rested for Saturday's win at Blackpool after picking up a slight knock against Rotherham in midweek.

With Fulham's safety finally assured boss Kit Symons could make changes, with the likes of Cauley Woodrow, Shaun Hutchinson, Jack Grimmer and Seko Fofana in contention for recalls.

Midfielders Lasse Vigen Christensen (hamstring), Emerson Hyndman (collarbone) and George Williams (knee) are set to miss out again.

Middlesbrough head coach Aitor Karanka will make a late check on leading scorer Patrick Bamford after the 19-goal striker damaged an ankle in last Friday's hard-fought win at Norwich .

Midfielder Albert Adomah is in a similar position after also hurting an ankle at Carrow Road, and he too will be assessed before Karanka names his team.

However, striker Jelle Vossen is more of a doubt after sustaining a series of knocks, the most troubling to his ankle, and he faces a race against time if he is to make it, while Jonathan Woodgate is struggling to overcome a hamstring problem.

Boro will be without Woodgate's fellow central defender Tomas Kalas following his return to Chelsea after his loan deal expired, while Damia Abella (knee) and Rhys Williams (Achilles) remain on the sidelines.


http://www.espnfc.co.uk/english-league-championship/match/395398/fulham-middlesbrough/preview?

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The Final Word

Michael Turner is looking for a win on Saturday at the Cottage against Middlesbrough in what is not only his last game for the Whites on loan from Norwich City, but also Fulham's final home match of the season.

"It's the last home game in front of the home crowd so we'll do all we can to make sure we send them home happy," he told fulhamfc.com.

But Turner knows that the challenge on Saturday will not be an easy one.

"It's going to be a tough game," he admitted. "They've been at the top of the league for pretty much the whole season and they will be gunning to win and try to edge closer to automatic promotion."


However, with Fulham's tenure in the Sky Bet Championship now secured for the 2015/16 season, Turner believes the Whites can play without the pressure that has perhaps been a factor in the last few outings.

"Securing our status for next year has been the aim, certainly for the short period that I've been here," he admitted. "So yeah, there's no pressure on us now.

"I think we know we are capable of winning games and being in a good position. But obviously now we are mathematically safe I'm sure the shackles will be off and hopefully we'll put in a good performance and win."

Turner joined Fulham on loan from Norwich on 12th March and has impressed for the Whites during his stay. Saturday will be his last game as he in ineligible to play against his parent club on the final day of the season at Carrow Road.

"I came in and I had a game after two days of being here so it all happened very quickly," the defender said. "I've played a lot of games in a short space of time and I've thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a great club to be at and I've really enjoyed my short time here."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/april/24/the-final-word?

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U18s PREVIEW: FULHAM

Two games left of youngsters' season

NORWICH City Under-18s play the final home match of their 2014-15 campaign on Saturday when they host Fulham at Colney Training Centre (12pm).

Jerry Gill's side currently sit in seventh place in the Group 3 play-off section of the Barclays Under-18s Premier League, having ended the regular season strongly.

Meanwhile, Fulham are two points ahead of the Canaries in the standings, with both teams having one remaining fixture after this weekend's clash.

The Cottagers hold the upper hand from previous meetings, having secured a 2-1 victory at Colney back in September.

City will be without Aston Oxborough for the contest, after the goalkeeper suffered an injury in last weekend's 4-2 defeat at Blackburn Rovers.

However, they are set to be boosted by the return of several players who have been involved at higher age levels due to the recent postponement of Monday's proposed Under-21s match against Chelsea.

CANARIES' FORM
L – 4-2 v Blackburn (A) 18/04/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League
L – 1-4 v Stoke (H) 11/04/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League
L – 2-1 v Southampton (A) 28/03/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League
D – 1-1 v Bolton (H) 21/03/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League
W – 1-2 v Arsenal (A) 14/03/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League

COTTAGERS' FORM
D – 2-2 v Bolton (H) 18/04/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League
D – 1-1 v Newcastle (H) 11/04/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League
D – 2-2 v Stoke (A) 28/03/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League
L – 2-0 v Blackburn (A) 21/03/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League
W – 3-0 v Southampton (H) 14/03/2015 – Barclays U18s Premier League

LAST NORWICH CITY U18s XI (v Blackburn Rovers)
Oxborough; Sambu, Wallis, Elleseley, Boateng; Pollock, Kamal, McIntosh, Middleton; Ashley-Seal, Couzens.

LAST FULHAM XI (v Bolton Wanderers)
Norman; Elworthy, Adebayo, Davies, Sessegnon, Shamsi, Dolan, de la Torre, Thomas, Redford, Humphrys.



Read more at http://www.canaries.co.uk/news/article/norwich-city-fulham-u18s-playoffs-preview-2420640.aspx#HvsdoDzZwKeJrYv6.99

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Fulham v Middlesbrough preview: Scott Parker set to return

Scott Parker could return to the Fulham squad for the visit of promotion-chasing Middlesbrough.

Veteran midfielder Parker was rested for Saturday's win at Blackpool after picking up a slight knock against Rotherham in midweek.

With Fulham's safety finally assured boss Kit Symons could make changes, with the likes of Cauley Woodrow, Shaun Hutchinson, Jack Grimmer and Seko Fofana in contention for recalls.

Midfielders Lasse Vigen Christensen (hamstring), Emerson Hyndman (collarbone) and George Williams (knee) are set to miss out again.

Middlesbrough head coach Aitor Karanka will make a late check on leading scorer Patrick Bamford after the 19-goal striker damaged an ankle in last Friday's hard-fought win at Norwich.

Midfielder Albert Adomah is in a similar position after also hurting an ankle at Carrow Road, and he too will be assessed before Karanka names his team.

However, striker Jelle Vossen is more of a doubt after sustaining a series of knocks, the most troubling to his ankle, and he faces a race against time if he is to make it, while Jonathan Woodgate is struggling to overcome a hamstring problem.

Boro will be without Woodgate's fellow central defender Tomas Kalas following his return to Chelsea after his loan deal expired, while Damia Abella (knee) and Rhys Williams (Achilles) remain on the sidelines.


http://www1.skysports.com/football/live/match/314299/preview?

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ALLARDYCE TO FULHAM? FORMER FAVOURITE REACTS TO RUMOURS

Matt Lawrence on potential cross-town switch for beleaguered Hammers boss

Sam Allardyce could be set for a sensational switch to Fulham should he leave West Ham at the end of this season.

That's according to the latest rumours with former Craven Cottage favourite Matt Lawrence on hand to give his exclusive reaction to Ladbrokes News.

"There has been talk of Sam Allardyce going to Fulham should he leave West Ham. I'm not sure how true that is but if he was given a large budget there then he could be a good choice to get them promoted" he said.

"I can't see them retuning to the Premier League any time soon without throwing a lot of money at it.

"There need to be big changes in the playing staff and reading between the lines you could see Kit Symons losing his job too, not that I've advocating that!"

Allardyce's future at Upton Park remains uncertain with the 60-year-old set for contract talks when his current deal runs out at the end of this campaign.

Having flirted with the Champions League places at the start of the season the Hammers have since won only two games since Christmas and are in freefall.

And given the criticism levelled at Allardyce by some sections of the Upton Park faithful a new challenge at Fulham might appeal.

The Cottagers currently sit 18th in the Championship having endured a turbulent campaign both on and off the field.

Felix Magath's disastrous reign came to an end in September last year with the club sitting bottom of the table having taken just one point from their opening seven games.

And while replacement Kit Symons has managed to steer the club away from the relegation zone the 44-year-old is also facing questions about his future.


http://news.ladbrokes.com/football/championship/allardyce-former-favourite-reacts-rumours_232589.html?

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Boro Can Bring Down the Cottagers

Another must win game for Boro as we travel down to the Thames side to attempt victory in the final away game of the season. Can Boro bring back 3 points from Fulham and pile the pressure on Watford and Bournemouth? Fulham v Boro, Craven Cottage, sat 25th April 3pm kick off.

Just one point and a whole load of goals separate the top three teams in the Championship. We will be hoping for slip ups elsewhere and Boro going for the max to make this an epic finale to what has already been a momentous season.

There will be a big, big away following in Craven Cottage to witness Boro's attempts to move on up in the promotion race tomorrow. As well as the away end the "neutral stand" will be decidedly less neutral and more red and white than usual tomorrow as fans flock to the capital to roar on their team through the first of two steps to destiny.

Last Friday we experienced the full gamut of emotions in that incredible victory over Norwich at Carrow Road. That opened the door for us, and Bournemouth's home draw on the Saturday opened it wider still. Now with just two games left the task in hand is quite simple. Win at Fulham and then beat Brighton and fingers crossed Watford or Bournemouth fail to match us and we are up. Just one draw for Watford or Bournemouth and the sell out Riverside crowd will be dancing by the Tees next weekend.

First things first, one game at a time. Boro have three major injury doubts for the game at Fulham. Albert Adomah who is finishing the season on fire has been hobbling out of games of late but can he bit enough to start and help us launch our assault on the Cottagers?

Jelle Vossen's workrate at Norwich was punishing. He took it in the neck, he took it in his legs, before being carried from the pitch. We could do with him running himself into the Craven Cottage ground for the cause.

Patrick Bamford has just been crowned as Championship Player of the Year. The Chelsea forward, who recently overtook Ravanelli's league goalscoring record was on one leg for much of the Norwich game. Can he get that second leg working again? We need his goal threat on the break.

Fulham have had a truly awful season. Relegated from the Premier League by the astonishingly woeful stewardship of Felix Magath, they have never recovered from the appalling start under the German to their Championship season. Nice glasses though Felix.

Last week's victory over hapless Blackpool finally guaranteed escape from relegation but cannot mask the fact that the team from next to the Thames have been through stormy waters this season. They do still have a few useful players in their ranks. We know all about top scorer Ross McCormick as we tried and tried to sign the mighty atom from Leeds and Leeds. His 16 goals in a struggling side is a very respectable return, although perhaps doesn't justify spending quite such a slice of the parachute payment on one player. Another forward with Leeds links is giant sized battering ram, Matt Smith. Hopefully Daniel Ayala will look after the physical presence of the former Oldham centre forward.

One player that won't be featuring for Fulham is left back James Husband. He has played a big role in the club's struggles to stave off back to back relegations but will not be able to play against parent club, Boro.

It is making me nervous just writing about this game. Just like last week we have to win. A draw would just hand the initiative to our two automatic promotion rivals. Watford play before us. Let's hope they slip up and open that door even wider for us. And then it would be nice if Bournemouth buckled under pressure on Monday. Cherries manager Eddie Howe and his assistant Jason Tindall have both been charged by the FA following their spectacularly ill considered outbursts against the referee and officials in general after their damaging draw with Sheff Wed. It certainly suggests they are feeling the heat. Not at all the kind of conduct you would expect from a man awarded Football League manager of the decade last weekend.

Here's hoping we can keep it tight at the back again. Ayala and Gibson can continue to shut out opponents in front of safe hands Dimi. Hopefully Ryan Fredericks will be fit to play at right back with Tomas Kalas no longer available.

Adam Clayton and Grant Leadbitter can play Fulham off the park in the midfield and provide space for Lee Tomlin to make those surging runs from deep to cleave the home side apart.

It will be a white hot atmosphere from the thousands supporting Boro. Many of us will be arriving via the river on the Middlesbrough Supporters South boat. We drew 0-0 the last time we took the water route to a game in London at Charlton. So we need a little extra this time. But we have happy memories of a more recent game and victory in the capital at Brentford. A repeat of that is just what the Boro doctor has ordered.

Last Friday's fantastic battling performance can give us confidence to take all 3 points at Fulham. We have the fighting spirit. We will have the support. We can make it a winning result and then over to our rivals to trip up. The momentum can swing back to Boro with a win at Fulham.

Come on Boro #Believe


http://www.fansonline.net/middlesbrough/article.php?id=4351

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Middlesbrough manager fears Fulham now they're 'safe'

Whites pose threat to ambitious Boro

Middlesbrough's manager believes Fulham will be twice as dangerous now the Whites are safe from relegation.

Aitor Karanka brings his high-flying side to Craven Cottage tomorrow looking for automatic promotion after a heartening 2-0 away win at Norwich last week, likewise looking for a return to the Premier League.

But the Boro boss insists Fulham will pose as much a threat as the out-of-tune Canaries.

Karanka said: "It is going to be a very tough game because Fulham are now safe and have very good players so when these kind of players are playing without pressure it is going to be a very tough game for us.

"We have to win. We made mistakes against Bournemouth and Watford and now we can't make more mistakes.

"We need to win both games and we are working to beat Fulham on Saturday and then we will prepare for Brighton (last game next week)."

"I think it's worse to play to avoid relegation, but when you are playing to achieve something it is always amazing."

Fulham will be without Boro loanee James Husband, ineligible against his parent club. Likewise, the White who went the opposite direction, Fernando Amorebieta, is also ruled out.

Fullham boss Kit Symons is likely to name Sean Kavanagh in Husband's place at left-back, as he looks to revenge a 2-0 defeat at the Riverside in October (see gallery) that was the start of Amorebieta's injury problems.


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/middlesbrough-manager-fears-fulham-now-9108465?

[WhiteJC]

 
Riverside Sell-Out For Fulham Screening

Boro fans to watch Fulham game live...
Tickets have sold out for the Riverside screening of Saturday's game against Fulham.

Doors open at 1pm and admission is strictly by ticket only.

We'd like to thank our fans for supporting the beamback venture.



Read more at http://www.mfc.co.uk/news/article/2014/middlesbrough-boro-fulham-riverside-championship-2421082.aspx#4AWlEq5phjQqYt5C.99

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Fulham V Middlesbrough

SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Saturday 25 April Kick-off: 15:00 BST
Coverage: Watch highlights on The Football League Show; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and BBC local radio; text commentary on the BBC Sport website

Fulham captain Scott Parker could return to the squad after he was rested last weekend due to a slight knock.

With safety confirmed Kit Symons could look to make changes with the likes of Cauley Woodrow, Shaun Hutchinson and Jack Grimmer pushing for recalls.

Middlesbrough could be without leading goal scorer Patrick Bamford and midfielder Albert Adomah after both picked up knocks at Norwich.

Centre-back Jonathan Woodgate misses out with a persistent hamstring injury.

Head-to-Head
• Middlesbrough won the earlier meeting this season 2-0 at the Riverside Stadium in October.
• Fulham have won only one of the last six meetings. Their only win since 2006 was 3-0 at Craven Cottage in the Premier League in December 2008.
• Fulham have won three of the last four meetings at Craven Cottage, losing the other. Middlesbrough's only win there since 2004 was 2-1 in the Premier League in August 2007.

Fulham
• Fulham won 1-0 at Blackpool last Saturday - their first win in five games.
• Fulham have not won any of their last five home games, losing three. Their last win at Craven Cottage was 2-0 against Derby on 28 February.

Middlesbrough
• Middlesbrough have won their last three games. Their last defeat was 2-0 at Watford on 6 April.
• Middlesbrough won 1-0 at Norwich on 17 April - only their second win in eight away games in all competitions.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/32362246

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham team news: Symons rules out three to face Middlesbrough

Whites boss wants a good finish starting with win over Boro


Struggling: Scott Parker (R) is down and almost certainly out against Boro

Fulham are almost certainly without captain and talisman Scott Parker as they gear up to face Middlesbrough tomorrow.

Manager Kit Symons revealed Parker is struggling with an ankle problem, and is '50-50' at best.

Left-back all but picks itself with Boro loanee James Husband not only ineligible but struggling with a hamstring tug, while Kostas Stafylidis has a back complaint.


Left back: Kavanagh
Sean Kavanagh is pencilled in to nullify Albert Adomah down Boro's right, as Symons looks to finish the season strongly having secured Championship status with Millwall's defeat on Tuesday night.

"I will certainly have an eye on the future for the last two games, but I want to finish strongly – our fans deserve it," the manager added.

"For me more than anyone it was a weight off my shoulder to secure our status.

"I'm not afraid of anything and anyone, but the thought of this club getting relegated was a horrible prospect."

Symons plots to subdue a side coming at them 100 miles an hour in a bid to win the Championship championship, and one who beat the Whites 2-0 at the Riverside in October (see gallery).

"We gave a good account of ourselves up there. It was 0-0 and very much even Steven. If anything we shaded it and then had two good chances," the gaffer recalled.

"(Chelsea loanee) Patrick Bamford's got really bright movement; he's pacy, plays on the shoulder and is an excellent finisher with a lot of assists.

"He's not their only threat, they've got a lot of good players, with a best defensive record in the league.

"First and foremost, we've got to stay in the game, because they'll come out of the blocks, and then we'll build from there."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-team-news-symons-rules-9111916?

[WhiteJC]

 
Kit's Middlesbrough Preview

Kit Symons wants to give the Fulham supporters something to cheer about in the final home match of the season on Saturday.

Our opponents Middlesbrough have enjoyed the sort of campaign that Whites fans were hoping for, but while they'll be aiming for the three points needed to maintain their promotion charge, Symons is desperate to send the Craven Cottage faithful home satisfied.

He stated in Friday's press conference: "I'd say the bulk of the pressure would be on [Middlesbrough], but we're at home, it's our last home game of what's been a very difficult season and I want to go out, and the players want to go out, on a high.

"It's been tough, really tough, at times this season. We've all stuck together – it's been a bit of a rocky road I think it's fair to say, but by and large people have stuck together and that's what's got us through this so we want to give our home support a good day tomorrow and a good performance.

"We want to finish as strongly as we can. I think that's important, I think our fans deserve that. The Championship this season has been fantastic, and we're playing two teams [Middlesbrough and Norwich City] in the last two games who are right at the top of it.

"So we'll have a say in what happens and I think we owe it to the integrity of the division to do things in the right way and put out teams that I think can go and win both games."

Fulham's safety was only confirmed this week when Millwall failed to beat Blackburn Rovers, but while Symons admitted it was a relief, he also praised the morale at the Club prior to it being a mathematical certainty.

"It was just a huge weight off my shoulders," he said. "I'm not scared of anything or anyone really but the thought of this Club getting relegated was a horrible prospect and when that was put to bed finally I did breathe a sigh of relief.

"To be honest, and Alan Curbishley pointed it out, the whole environment of the Football Club has not been like a club that's struggling at the bottom of the division, which we were.


"The atmosphere and the whole mood around the camp was really upbeat, and that's played a big part in us staying up, and that's testament to all our staff working in the offices at Motspur Park. It's full credit to them because they kept the atmosphere high, and the players' training was very, very bright, and it was just a good mood.

"So it wasn't a case of having to pick people up and them suddenly becoming upbeat, it genuinely has been upbeat all the time. I'm very thankful for that because that, without a doubt in my mind, has played a part in us staying up."

Boro are currently just one point off top spot in the Sky Bet Championship, and Symons knows his side are in for a gruelling test on Saturday.

"They're a good side, a really good side," he admitted. "They've got a good balance about them, they've got a lot of good players. They're an excellent team so it'll be a tough game tomorrow.

"They've got the best defensive record in the league and they're really strong away from home, so it's going to be a tough game certainly. We've got to make sure we stay in the game – because I'm sure they'll come out of the blocks quickly – and build and go from there.

"Earlier in the season we gave a good account of ourselves up there. It was 2-0 but we were very much in the game; 0-0 at half-time and pretty much even stevens, if anything we maybe shaded it.

"Then they score within 45 seconds of the restart, Lasse [Christensen] has one cleared off the line, Tim Hoogland hits the bar, Hugo [Rodallega] goes clear through at 1-0, they score a second very late on.

"So we certainly gave a very good account of ourselves up there and I'm expecting nothing less than a good account of ourselves tomorrow, but with a different result."


In his press conference the Fulham Manager was also asked about recent speculation linking goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli with a move away from the Club.

When asked if he's keen to tie the 22-year-old to a new deal, Symons responded: "I'd certainly be looking to do that, and the Club would. He's a bright young goalkeeper and I'm not surprised he's been linked with other people.

"He's at the right place to continue his development. He's made mistakes, as we all have this season, but he's learnt from them and he's the type of character who wants to learn.

"He knows he's got a lot to do still but I'm very optimistic, as I'm sure he is, that he will learn and he will develop and he will continue to get better and better, so I'm really excited to oversee that development and see him get better and better for Fulham.

"He's one of our bright young players who's had a really good season that he didn't expect, and probably not too many other people did either. But he's done exceptionally well and I've been delighted with his progress."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/april/24/kits-middlesbrough-preview?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham handed major injury blow ahead of Boro visit

The Cottagers are safe from relegation and Symons admits he may have an eye on the future for the next two games

Fulham boss Kit Symons admits he will have "one eye on the future" against Boro tomorrow as he considers shuffling his pack.

The Cottagers face Boro knowing they are safe from relegation, and attentions in West London are already on a much improved campaign next season.

This lunchtime, Symons admitted captain and talisman Scott Parker will almost certainly miss the clash with Boro, rating the former Newcastle man as "50/50 at best".

James Husband is also ineligible due to his loan move from the Riverside, and Symons hinted he could give some fringe players a chance to impress against Aitor Karanka's promotion hopefuls.

"I will certainly have an eye on the future for the last two games, but I want to finish strongly - our fans deserve it," Symons told GetWestLondon.

"For me more than anyone it was a weight off my shoulder to secure our status.

"I'm not afraid of anything and anyone, but the thought of this club getting relegated was a horrible prospect."

It's a massive afternoon for Boro as they look to maintain their top two hopes with a win, and in October's reverse it was the Teessiders who ran out 2-0 winners.

Symons is expecting a difficult game - but refused to concentrate solely on newly-crowned Championship Player of the Year Patrick Bamford, who is expected to shake off an ankle injury and lead the line for Boro.

"We gave a good account of ourselves up there. It was 0-0 and very much even Steven," Symons said.

"If anything we shaded it and then had two good chances.

"Patrick Bamford's got really bright movement; he's pacy, plays on the shoulder and is an excellent finisher with a lot of assists.

"He's not their only threat, they've got a lot of good players, with a best defensive record in the league.

"First and foremost, we've got to stay in the game, because they'll come out of the blocks, and then we'll build from there."


http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-handed-major-injury-blow-9112340?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham set to offer new deal to Bettinelli

Fulham boss Kit Symons has confirmed he wants to offer goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli a new deal.

The 22-year-old has impressed during his maiden season in the Fulham first team and was recently linked with a potential move to Chelsea.

Symons said: "He's a bright young goalkeeper and I'm not surprised he's been linked with other people.

"He's at the right place to continue his development. He's made mistakes, as we all have this season, but he's learned from them and he's the type of character who wants to learn.

"He knows he's got a lot to do still but I'm very optimistic that he will develop and continue to get better and better, so I'm really excited to oversee that development and see him get better and better for Fulham.

"He's one of our bright young players who's had a really good season that he didn't expect, and probably not too many other people did either. But he's done exceptionally well and I've been delighted with his progress."

Fulham play their final home game of a turbulent season on Saturday when they host promotion-chasing Middlesbrough.

The Whites' safety was only confirmed in midweek when Millwall failed to beat Blackburn, and Symons admitted he was relieved to see their Championship status confirmed.

He added: "It was just a huge weight off my shoulders.

"I'm not scared of anything – but the thought of this club getting relegated was a horrible prospect. When that was put to bed finally I did breathe a sigh of relief."

Fulham will be without loanee James Husband, who is ineligible to face his parent club, when they take on Middlesbrough, while Kostas Stafylidis (back) and Scott Paker (ankle) are doubts.

Boro have doubts over Chelsea loanee Patrick Bamford and former Harrow Borough winger Albert Adomah, who both have ankle injuries.


http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/football-wls-fulham-to-offer-goalkeeper-new-deal-amid-chelsea-speculation

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham FC vs Middlesbrough FC – Match Preview

Next time out, Boro head to Craven Cottage to play lower league opposition in the form of Fulham, in what will be their last away fixture of this season. Fulham sit firmly on 49 points, 18th place in the league and 9 points clear of the dreaded drop zone. Despite their low league position, compared to Boro's thriving 3rd placed position (which leaves them on par with promotion rivals Bournemouth on 84 points), Aitor Karanka's men will have to play well in their next fixture, as their last two games of the season are undoubtedly must-win games for them and failure to do so could result in the destruction of their already ambitious automatic promotion hopes.

Inevitably, as the season closes in, the Teeside club will be put under a lot of pressure and faced with a huge challenge against Fulham, as not only the challenge of a team with little to play for, the possible injuries of Bamford and Adomah, but the intensely stressful and pressured situation that they are faced with as they go into ther last away game of the season. It seems, the team are aware of this as first-choice goalkeeper Dimi Konstantopoulos has even admitted:

"No games are easy in the Championship; we've seen that in the past. You can play against Blackpool and they'll give you a game if you give them the time and space they will hurt you.
"We know it's not going to be easy and it's their last game of the season at home so they will want to finish on a high. As I said it's up to us to show our abilities again and carry on our form and get the win."
It will be comforting, however, for Boro fans to hear that despite Fulham's lower league position and struggling form this season, that the team are still taking the game seriously and treating Fulham as the threat that they could prove to be out on the pitch at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

Last time against Fulham

Last time the two sides met, Boro put in a top-drawer performance that enabled them to storm to a 2-0 victory and take away all 3 points. It was back on the 4th of October 2014, that Karanka's side welcomed their then relegation threatened and then 22nd placed league opponents. Fulham had been on a winning streak and appeared to be a threatening force before referee Darren Drysdale even blew his whistle to commence what turned out to be an extremely compelling game. Goals from wingers Adam Reach and Albert Adomah after half time enabled Middlesbrough to break the deadlock and take the points, and a well-rounded and impressive performance from the whole team meant all Boro fans went home that day happy with what felt like a well deserved victory.

Ticket Sales and attendances

Boro have sold an impressive 6,000 tickets for the long trip south in what has to count as a must win game. Not only is this a well anticipated day out for young and old Boro fans alike, but a must-win game for a Middlesbrough team gunning for an automatic promotion spot. Although little is actually resting on this game from a Fulham perspective, the game really is absolutely paramount to Middlesbrough's automatic promotion hopes; if they were to slip up and drop points in the capital, it's likely their chances of an automatic promotion spot really will be written off, as they are already also relying on rival contenders such as Watford and Bournemouth (who sit above them on goal difference) to slip up to enable them to clinch an automatic promotion place.

Another interesting opportunity for Middlesbrough fans, is the chance to attend the Riverside Stadium in the company of fellow Boro fans for only £10 (including pie and peas!). It has been arranged that throughout this away fixture at Craven Cottage, fans who simply cannot travel will still get to enjoy that renowned atmospheric match day feeling on their very own doorstep. The away fixture, will be beamed onto the screens at the Riverside, meaning a number of home fans who can't attend don't have to miss out on the action. The doors open at 1pm on Saturday and all tickets must be pre-purchased.

Team News

Adomah, Ayala and Leadbitter all have previously made their returns to the starting 11 against Norwich last time out, after both Adomah and Ayala were suspected to be injured and Leadbitter was serving a suspension after picking up 10 yellow cards in the league this season.

Adomah however, has been reported to be still suffering with a slight injury he picked up against Wolves recently, so it will be interesting if manager Aitor Karanka deems Adomah fit enough to take to the pitch on Saturday.

Along with this, recently crowned Sky Bet Championship Player of The Year Patrick Bamford has also been rumoured to have undergone a scan, along with fellow frontman Jelle Vossen after both players are suspected to have received slight injuries in our last fixture away at Norwich.

Defender Tomáš Kalas returned to parent club Chelsea FC after serving his time here on loan at Teesside. Boro's 1 – 0 win over Norwich last Friday served to be his last ever game for the club, however recent impressive displays mean that most fans have little bad to say about the defender who put in some immaculate performances throughout his time on Teesside.

Fulham captain Scott Parker could return to the squad after he was rested last weekend due to a slight knock.

With safety confirmed Kit Symons could look to make changes with the likes of Cauley Woodrow, Shaun Hutchinson and Jack Grimmer pushing for recalls.

Form

Boro can proudly say that currently we have won 4 out of their last 5 games and harbour an impressive statistic which itself states an above average 13 out of 15 points accumulated in their last 5 games. This is undoubtedly inspiring to a team hopefully looking to make this 5 wins in a row at Fulham, and tells the story of a Middlesbrough side in great form and looking to finish off our season emphatically.

Middlsbrough's away form tells the story of 3 losses from their last 5 away games, which is a slightly disappointing statistic for the fans to read, although this did improve after their 1-0 win at Carrow Road away against Norwich last time out. Therefore, they have lay claim to a below par 6 out of 15 points in our last 5 away games. Boro will undoubtedly be looking to improve this figure by collecting all three points in a game that most people would agree they should be winning against their opponents who sit firmly in the lower half of the division.

Fulham have only won one of their last 5 games and have claimed a mere 3 points out of a possible 15. On paper, the gulf in class between two teams at opposite ends of the Championship this season seems in itself most clear, however, nothing is certain in such an unpredictable and surprising season in the Championship. Fulham also won their very last game; an away fixture at already relegated Blackpool saw them take all 3 points, meaning confidence may be high in a Fulham team with little to play for this late in the season.

Summary

This fixture looks on paper one that Boro should and will no doubt be expected to win easily, however football isn't played on paper and it still remains a mystery in the minds of all Boro fans which way this one is going to go. One thing is certain however, that if Middlesbrough FC are going to claim an automatic promotion spot, they can't afford to drop any points in this one.

Boro fans will be hoping that key players such as Bamford, Adomah and Vossen will be able to return to fitness and therefore be eligible for our last couple of games this season as undoubtedly their presence helps spur on the team to victory and become overall more motivated and determined on the pitch. It will be disappointing for fans if they lose too many players through injury as this is likely to diminish their chances of claiming the three points on Saturday necessary to claiming an automatic promotion place this season.


http://the72.co.uk/25631/fulham-fc-vs-middlesbrough-fc-match-preview/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Reasons to be optimistic AND cautious ahead of a crunch weekend for Boro in the Championship

Boro are looking to continue their superb run of form with a win at Fulham while hoping Bournemouth or Watford slip-up

Three staggered kick-off times for the three teams at the top all desperate to pick up three points to keep their automatic promotion dreams alive.

For Boro the equation is simple - keep winning.

If they do that the pressure continues to be heaped on Watford and Bournemouth, but Boro are still in desperate need of a slip-up elsewhere.

On the subject of stutters, Watford can book their spot in the Premier League next season if they win at Brighton in the early kick-off and either Boro or Bournemouth lose.

But after the hugely impressive victory at Norwich, Aitor Karanka's side will be confident of another win on the road at Craven Cottage.

Here, we look at three reasons to be optimistic and three reasons to be cautious ahead of yet another crunch weekend of Championship football.

Reasons to be optimistic
Boro's fine recent form

The damaging defeats at Bournemouth and Watford would have knocked many a team off the rails. Not Boro.

The manner in which they've bounced back from the demoralising loss at Watford has been hugely impressive.

Three wins in a week and only one goal conceded along the way. The victory at Norwich last time out was undoubtedly one of the results of the season.

Boro showed their style and substance early on to grab the advantage in the game before digging deep until the very last second to cling on to the points.

The players will be buzzing after that result and despite it looking like Boro had the most difficult run-in a fortnight ago, you'd now be inclined to say they've got the most inviting fixtures still to play of the three at the top.

Karanka's side beat Fulham comfortably in the reverse fixture at the Riverside. An early goal will hopefully set the tone for a similar afternoon at Craven Cottage.

Brighton's players aren't on the beach yet
Mathematically Brighton aren't quite safe from relegation just yet but it would take one almighty swing in goal difference for the Seagulls to tumble out of the Championship.

But that doesn't mean their players are downing tools with two games to play.

A home game against Watford followed by a trip to the Riverside, Brighton could yet have a huge part to play on who wins promotion to the Premier League this season.

And although Watford are seemingly on a charge to the top flight, enjoying a superb run of form at the right stage of the season, Chris Hughton's side won't roll over without a fight.

"I am very conscious of the responsibility that we have in our last two games," he told the club website.

"We have a responsibility to all of the teams around there to do the best we can in both of these games."

A stirring show in Brighton's final home game of the season would be superb for Boro if the surprise strugglers can upset the Hornets.

Then they're allowed to start thinking about their summer holidays a week early...

Promising signs of pressure beginning to show at Bournemouth
Last week at this time Bournemouth were top of the table and seemingly destined to stroll into the Premier League.

Then Chris Maguire held his nerve in the final seconds to score from the spot and snatch a much-deserved point for Sheffield Wednesday at the Goldsands.

Since then cracks have started to show.

Players crying on the final whistle after throwing away two points, Eddie Howe admitting it was a "heartbreaking end" to the game and defender Tommy Elphick claiming "there is too much talk of pressure".

Howe and his assistant Jason Tindall have since been charged with misconduct for their comments following that draw with the Owls.

Bolton at home on Monday night looks routine enough but the Cherries could be four points behind Watford and three behind Boro by that time.

That's pressure. Just don't tell Elphick.

Reasons to be cautious
The pressure is off Fulham
It's been a season to forget for the Cottagers. They started the campaign as one of the favourites for promotion with bookies tipping Fulham for an immediate return to the Premier League.

But for long periods of the campaign it's looked like the only way they were going to get out of the Championship was by tumbling into League One.

That's no longer possible thanks to Blackburn's win over Millwall in midweek and under-pressure boss Kit Symons will be hoping his side improve now the pressure is off.

Fulham fans have been calling on the boss to give the club's talented youngsters a chance. They certainly can't do much worse than the seasoned pros who have flopped in the second tier.

Fulham's Under-21s made it to the FA Youth Cup final last year and were in action against Porto in the Premier League International Cup semi-finals during the week.

Regardless of whether Symons opts for the experienced players or the young guns, Boro should have too much for the hosts.

But Fulham's impressive victory over Derby at Craven Cottage back in February was a reminder of the kind of result this league is capable of throwing up.

Bolton's record on the road doesn't inspire confidence
Despite the slight signs of a wobble at Bournemouth this week, there's only one side they'd rather be facing than Bolton on home turf on Monday night and that's Blackpool.

It goes without saying that the basement boys have the worst record on the road in the Championship this year but Bolton's isn't much better.

The Trotters have only mustered 16 points away from the Macron Stadium, winning just four of 22 games.

That said, Neil Lennon's side are unbeaten on their travels in the last three. They ground out an impressive 2-2 draw at play-off hopefuls Brentford last time out and thumped Cardiff in South Wales earlier this month.

Bournemouth have smashed 45 goals at the Goldsands this season, Bolton have leaked 37 on the road. The wise money wouldn't be on a 0-0 stalemate.

Boro have an injury concern or three
Boro's battered players certainly knew they'd been in a game at Carrow Road last week.

Jelle Vossen hobbled off, Patrick Bamford hobbled throughout and Albert Adomah said his ankle "felt like glass" after the game.

Aitor Karanka said it was touch and go whether the trio would feature against Fulham, although he said the same about those facing a fitness race ahead of the Norwich game and they got the nod.

If one, two or all three are deemed fit enough to play, fans and the coaching staff will be hoping they get through the game without suffering any ill effects.

With no midweek game to contend with, Boro's players have a full week to recover ahead of the season-deciding home game with Brighton.


http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/reasons-optimistic-cautious-ahead-crunch-9112856?