Tuesday Fulham Stuff (03/11/15)...

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Ross McCormack reflects on 30-yard thunderbolt at Bristol City

Fulham striker scored a peach against the Robins


Goalscorer: Ross McCormack

Ross McCormack played down his stunning free kick against Bristol City and claimed he was hoping for the best.

The Scot struck from 30-yards to put the Whites 3-0 up against the Robins after Moussa Dembele's early brace. Ryan Tunnicliffe made it 4-0 before half-time before Jonathan Kodjia scored a late consolation in second-half stoppage time.

And he revealed that there was a debate over whether he'd shoot or Jamie O'Hara would whip it into the back post.

"I think one out of 20 isn't bad. You put your foot through it and hope for the best. Thankfully it went in today," he said.

"We practice quite a bit but it's hard. It was further out than it looked. Jamie was there as well and we were debating whether he was going to hang it up the back post or I was going to shoot.

"The keeper gave me a target to aim at and, thankfully, it was good enough."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUKgkHrqx_k

Fulham were exceptional in the first-half, racing into a one goal lead then picking off Bristol City at will on the counter attack to kill the game off.

They could have added to their tally after the break but were more than content to pick up the three points.

McCormack added: "We seem to be a one-half team but if we play like we did against Reading in the second half for one half every game we'll win more games than we lose.

"We went 4-0 up very quickly and then showed game management in the second half.

"We're a confident bunch of lads. We're four points off it now and we've got a tough game on Tuesday and a tough game on Saturday. The law of averages say we won't win every game."


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ross-mccormack-reflects-30-yard-10370139?

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Symons' tactics were spot-on at Bristol City and why Fulham must support him

Why Whites fans should put more faith into their manager


Keep the faith: Kit Symons

Kit Symons' tactics in Fulham's 4-1 win over Bristol City were just what the Whites needed to secure a thumping victory.

The boss opted for pacey wing backs to push forward at every opportunity and it paid off inside the first two minutes thanks to Moussa Dembele's goal.

I felt they were sitting back a bit too much after taking the lead and the Robins did have chances to level the scores; although their strikers were unable to test Andy Lonergan.

It was either going to be a wonderful counter attacking move or a defensive mistake that would allow them to score again and it was the latter.

Aden Flint criminally passed to Ryan Tunnicliffe 15 yards outside of his own area. The former Manchester United man laid off Tom Cairney, who in turn found Dembele and it was 2-0. Quick as a flash.

McCormack and Tunnicliffe rounded off the scoring in the first-half with fine individual goals and then it was a case of going back through the record books to try and find Fulham's biggest away wins; given their notorious record since the turn of the century.

The second-half was a bit more of a on event and Jonathan Kodjia prevented it being the biggest league win away from the Cottage since 1999 but I'm sure the 1,300 Whites fans who made the trip to the West Country aren't too concerned by that fact.

Symons has been under pressure this season and the fans have called for his head on a number of occasions during this campaign.

Speaking to a handful of supporters on the way back from Bristol, the feeling is Fulham should be challenging for a play-off spot.

While they certainly have the squad to do so, the Championship is remarkably tight and any of the top 15 could finish in the top six. Indeed, in Kit Symons' last season as a player he was part of the Crystal Palace side that surged from around the relegation places at Christmas to the final play-off spot.

It would also be fair for fans to remember the position the club were in when Symons took over after the reign of Felix Magath.

Fulham were suffering for the howlers made under the German's tenure and, to a lesser extent, still are given the changes in the squad.

Given the upheaval over the last two seasons, it wouldn't be the worst thing in the world if the Whites had a boring upper mid-table season and being in a stronger position to challenge at the top end next year.

Fans won't want to wait that long but for those doubting Symons, who is out there that would guarantee a promotion for Fulham?

Symons has been a steady pair of hands and time will tell whether he can take Fulham to the Premier League, but he deserves better than some of the treatment he has received in some quarters.


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/sport-opinion/symons-tactics-were-spot-bristol-10370805?

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Tunners: Fans Got Us Buzzing

Ryan Tunnicliffe was full of praise for the travelling Fulham fans on Saturday after they watched their side come away from Ashton Gate with a 4-1 win.

All four of our strikes arrived in the first half, giving the 1,300 strong Whites faithful behind the goal the perfect view as Bristol City were put to the sword, with Tunnicliffe rounding off the scoring with a beauty of a lob.

Speaking to fulhamfc.com, he enthused: "I was saying in the dressing room that it's a footballer's dream to score in front of a packed away end. It was a nice goal as well so I was delighted.

"It massively lifts the team having that many fans there. You hear them all singing and when I scored my goal and they started singing my name, it gets you buzzing for it and it makes you want to run that 5-10 per cent harder to make them cheer, and when they cheer it just gives everyone that extra lift. They're the 12th man, as they say."

Fulham were in a prolific mood in the opening 45 minutes against the Robins and their ruthless attitude in front of goal meant the game was as good as over by the time the referee blew for half-time.

"We're obviously delighted," Tunnicliffe said of his side's display. "Our first-half performance, I don't think anyone could've lived with us.

"When you add in the second half the week before [against Reading], that's eight goals we've scored in 90 minutes across two games. So that was good but we also defended well and didn't really give them a sniff which was good as well. It was the complete performance really."

Kit Symons made a tactical tweak for the fixture with the introduction of a third central defender and wing-backs to counter the similar formation preferred by City.

It worked to devastating effect, with left wing-back James Husband helping to create three goals.

"I think it helped us match up," Tunnicliffe explained. "We'd watched videos of them and saw that they've always got a pass on, with five at the back there's always an out ball.

"So we matched up with them and were able to pick them up accordingly, and I think it helped us get a good foothold in the game. And obviously we got the early goal which was nice."

A five-game unbeaten run has seen Fulham climb up to 10th in the standings, four points off the Play-Offs, going into this week's fixtures against Burnley and Birmingham City.

And while a difficult evening's work lies ahead at Turf Moor on Tuesday, Tunnicliffe insists that his side don't fear anyone in the league.

"We're confident," he stated. "But I think we have been going into every game we've played this year. When results weren't going our way we were still playing well so we remained confident. It's a short turnaround but we'll recover properly and travel up there and hopefully come away with another win.

"If you look at the teams we've beaten this season, we beat QPR by four and we put four past Reading, and you'd think those are two of the top teams.

"Reading had only conceded eight goals before they played us, so I think that speaks for itself. We do believe we can beat anyone when we're playing like we are at the moment."

Tickets for Tuesday's game will be available to buy at Turf Moor on the day, while tickets for Saturday's meeting with Birmingham are still available to purchase, priced from just £25 for adults and £15 for juniors.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/november/02/tunners-fans-got-us-buzzing?

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'Everton target' Dembele set to sign new Fulham deal

Moussa Dembele: Attracting the attention of Everton

Fulham forward Moussa Dembele is poised to sign a new long-term deal at the club, sources have told TEAMtalk.com.

Dembele has been one of Fulham's star performers this season with eight goals in all competitions this term, including two in the 4-1 win over Bristol City at the weekend.

Fulham boss Kit Symons revealed after the win at Bristol City that talks over a new deal with Dembele were ongoing.

"Moussa is a player we will work on to improve," said Symons.

"Talks over a new contract are in progress and we want him to sign. I am very hopeful it will happen.

"He is at the right club to develop his game because we have some good people to offer him guidance."

A number of Premier League clubs, including Everton have been keeping tabs on Dembele's progress, but Fulham are determined to keep the 19-year-old at Craven Cottage.

Fulham have been locked in talks with Dembele and his representatives for some time with his currennt deal due to expire at the end of this season.

It seems talks have progressed well and Dembele has verbally agreed to sign the four-year contract extension on offer from Fulham.

Securing Dembele's long-term future will come as a major boost to Fulham as they look to mount a bid for promotion back to the Premier League this season.


http://www.teamtalk.com/news/everton-target-dembele-set-to-sign-new-fulham-deal?

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Referee Confirmed For Fulham Fixture

Andrew Madley will officiate tomorrow night's home Sky Bet Championship fixture against Fulham at Turf Moor (7.45pm)

The West Yorkshire referee has been in charge of 16 games so far this season and issued 55 yellow cards and three reds in the process.

The last time he officiated a game involving the Clarets was the 3-0 victory over Derby County in August 2013 at the iPro Stadium.

Three players were booked on that occasion – Ben Mee and Dean Marney for the Clarets and Ben Davies for the hosts.

Mr Madley will be assisted by Mr Anthony Backhouse, Mr Mark Dwyer and Fourth Official Mr Darren Bond.


Read more at http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/news/article/referee-confirmed-for-fulham-fixture-2779366.aspx#qxJ9VsCxuJdkQTI3.99

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Fulham FC – Consistently Inconsistent

Since Kit Symons took over as Fulham manager in late 2014 it is fair the say the results on the pitch have been far from consistent, but currently sitting tenth in the table they've given themselves a platform to have a mid-season push for the play-offs.

When Symons took the reins of caretaker manager Fulham were a club in disarray, after one draw and seven losses in their first season away from the Premier League since 2001, Felix Magath was sacked and the fans called for the appointment of Kit after an impressive five wins in his first nine games. However the honeymoon period would come to a premature end, and after a poor set of results throughout the year meant Fulham who were one of the pre-season favourites for promotion, managed to avoid relegation by a measly five places.

Fast forward six months and Fulham are a totally different animal, with some astute summer signings and the transition of former youth players into first team regulars, they now look like the most complete side Fulham have had since dropping into the second tier. Fulham have currently scored eight goals in two games and are unbeaten in five, leaving the players and fans looking up the table rather than down. The summer transfer window saw the usual Fulham strategy of splashing out on one big signing change completely, Fulham turned their attentions to clubs in the Championship, signing five players experienced at this level who all had an impressive previous season in the form of Richard Stearman from Wolves, Jamie O'Hara from Blackpool, Tim Ream from Bolton, Thomas Cairney from Blackburn and Ben Pringle from Rotherham. With two of these players coming in on free transfers and the other 3 costing in the region of one to three million pounds, Fulham's squad became a far more dangerous prospect without Chairman Shahid Khan having to break the bank.

Despite all the new faces at Craven Cottage the top performers at the club so far this season have been players who were already on the books. Ross McCormack and Moussa Dembele had only played together a handful of times before this season but an early injury to McCormack's strike partner at former club Leeds and now at Fulham Matt Smith, meant the under 20 France international would get his chance to prove himself and its fair to say that he has grabbed it with both hands. Dembele has averaged a goal every 135 minutes this season with eight in sixteen appearances, whilst Fulham's club player of the year last season McCormack has notched 9 goals in 17 games with both men also laying on 2 assists.

With the full back pair of Richards and Husband and the experienced Lonergan in goal Fulham have the ability to go toe to toe with any Championship team as shown by the recent draw away to Middlebrough and 4 goal second half blitz of then second placed Reading. Kit Symons has a squad capable of challenging for a Play Off place and if McCormack can stay on the top of his game and Fulham can keep hold of 19 year old hotshot Dembele in January, they have a decent chance of staying in the upper regions of the table.

Despite the good run in form for Fulham, Symons' managerial record shows that they lose as many games as they win and this record isn't good enough for one of the top spots in the league, consistency is the next step Fulham need to conquer to stand a chance of promotion and a return to their former home the Premier League.


http://the72.co.uk/39016/fulham-fc-consistently-inconsistent/?

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Craven Corner: Symons proves he could still be Fulham's answer with Bristol City rout


Ross McCormack of Fulham (L) is congratulated by Jamie O'Hara. (Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images)

Fulham cemented their spot as the Championship's most prolific side with a flurry of four goals within the first 36 minutes against Bristol City at Ashton Gate.

Fulham's first half dominance saw Moussa Dembele score twice and they followed up with spectacular free-kick from Ross McCormack and a clever lob from Ryan Tunnicliffe.

The Whites were in complete control for the 90 minutes as Kit Symons implemented a 3-5-2 system that utilised the pace of James Husband and Ryan Fredericks as wing-backs - a team selection and formation that took many Fulham fans by surprise. During Symons' time at the club he has mainly stuck with a 4-4-2 with the occasional variation using a diamond system, so a complete change of tactic was very impressive.

Considering Fulham's defence has a long list of issues, employing Dan Burn as the central figure-head of the back three proved a clever move by Symons. The towering defender was once again dominant and with the pace of the wing-backs, along with Richard Stearman and Tim Ream's experience, Fulham for the first time in over twelve months looked like a strong defensive unit.

Interestingly, Fulham have not lost a game that Burn has started in this season - very impressive!

The support provided in the system by James Husband and Fredericks allowed the likes of Jamie O'Hara, Ryan Tunnicliffe and Tom Cairney to create attacks and four very well-taken goals were soon on the scoreboard. In all fairness the Cottagers could have scored a few on another day, but considering it was a new system all credit has to be given the managerial team – a team that has taken a lot of criticism in recent weeks.

I have previously called for the end of the Symons' reign, but this managerial display has given me some optimism that he could potentially have what it takes to become a successful manager. Symons has been heavily criticised for his tactics and his influence on games, but he didn't put a foot wrong with his selection or game-plan against Bristol City. I didn't think I'd be saying that this season, but bravo Kit, bravo!

It was our young star Moussa Dembele that stole the show with his double at the weekend and with reports suggesting the youngster is close to agreeing a new deal, Fulham could arguably have the best strike force in the division.

With Dembele and McCormack soon to be joined by the returning Matt Smith returning to match fitness, Symons must remain with his current partnership up front and allow Dembele the time to continue his development. The Frenchman's power, pace and dominance has made him the club's best asset and the perfect foundation to bring the best out of McCormack this season.

Consistency is the key to getting promoted out the Championship, and if we can allow the McCormack-Dembele partnership to blossom there is no reason why Fulham can't get promoted this year.

Saturday saw the return of midfield maestro O'Hara - a player that has simply been reborn since joining the club and the natural relationship he has built with Ryan Tunnicliffe has been a joy to watch. With captain Scott Parker returning to bench in recent weeks this is another tough decision for Symons, but with such importance placed on consistency Symons should introduce Parker to games for the last 20 minutes when a cool, calm head is needed.

While I appreciate Parker as the club's captain and as a general leader, sadly he hasn't got the legs to play a full game any more and should only be used as back-up option to Tunnicliffe and O'Hara. But that isn't to say that I want Scott Parker to leave Fulham - his knowledge of the game is priceless and the club should offer him a coaching role when he decides to call it a day.

The January transfer window is fast approaching and there two pieces of business that must be wrapped up before then. In theory, Fulham shouldn't need to bring in any new players with the focus on tying the spine of the squad to long-term deals.

New deals for Burn, Dembele and O'Hara should be Christmas presents for the Fulham faithful, while Shahid Khan should get the chequebook out to acquire the permanent services of James Husband.

The only stumbling block with signing Husband is the loan agreement of Luke Garbutt. Garbutt arrived as the next England left-back and Everton have high hopes for the youngster. They will want him to feature regularly, but with Husband proving the better option Fulham should send Garbutt back so he can develop elsewhere. Fernando Amorebieta could be used as part of a deal to sign super Husband on a permanent basis.

Fulham face Burnley next in a very tough fixture away from home. The Clarets are among the promotion favourites this season, and if Fulham can replicate their performance from this weekend, a top 6 finish will seem more likely.



Read more at: http://www.london24.com/sport/football/clubs/fulham/craven_corner_symons_proves_he_could_still_be_fulham_s_answer_with_bristol_city_rout_1_4293966
Copyright © LONDON24

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Kit: Looking Upwards

Ahead of the trip to Burnley, Manager Kit Symons discusses our recent hot form, looking up the table and Moussa Dembélé's contract offer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzBD98hGrzQ

http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/november/02/manager-video

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Burnley set to remain unchanged as they host Fulham

Burnley are likely to be unchanged for the visit of Fulham.

Boss Sean Dyche has no new injury worries and was able to bring back midfielder George Boyd from an ankle knock for Saturday's 2-1 win over Huddersfield.

Dyche could also soon welcome back long-term absentees Dean Marney and Kevin Long, who are building up their fitness after cruciate injuries.

However, Lukas Jutkiewicz and Ashley Barnes are still out with knee injuries. Fulham are without defender Jazz Richards, who faces three weeks on the sidelines with a calf injury.

Midfielder Scott Parker, who is building up his fitness following ankle problems, could return to the squad.

But goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli (knee) and defender Jack Grimmer (ankle) are long-term absentees.

Manager Kit Symons is unlikely to stray too far from the side which thumped Bristol City 4-1 on Saturday.


Read more at: https://www.clubcall.com/burnley/burnley-set-to-remain-unchanged-as-they-host-fulham-1787509.html?

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Burnley v Fulham

Burnley are likely to be unchanged for the visit of Fulham.

Boss Sean Dyche has no new injury worries and was able to bring back midfielder George Boyd from an ankle knock for Saturday's 2-1 win over Huddersfield.

Dyche could also soon welcome back long-term absentees Dean Marney and Kevin Long, who are building up their fitness after cruciate injuries.

However, Lukas Jutkiewicz and Ashley Barnes are still out with knee injuries.

Fulham are without defender Jazz Richards, who faces three weeks on the sidelines with a calf injury.

Midfielder Scott Parker, who is building up his fitness following ankle problems, could return to the squad.

But goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli (knee) and defender Jack Grimmer (ankle) are long-term absentees.

Manager Kit Symons is unlikely to stray too far from the side which thumped Bristol City 4-1 on Saturday.


http://www.sportinglife.com/football/live/match-preview/339702/-?

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Husband: We Blew Them Away

James Husband believes Fulham showed just what they're capable of in the opening 45 minutes at Ashton Gate on Saturday.

Four first-half goals – of which Husband created three – sent the Whites on their way to a 4-1 win over Bristol City, and the on-loan full-back was able to look back on the match with a great deal of pride.

"I'm happy with my performance but more importantly we're all happy with the performance of the team," he told the official website. "It was a good day personally for me, and for the team.

"We were all delighted in the changing room after the game, especially with the new system we played which worked a treat. We blew them away in the first 35 minutes or so – they just couldn't handle us. So we're a delighted bunch."

Husband excelled in the left wing-back role as Kit Symons tinkered with his formation to combat City's threats, and he was thrilled with how successful the switch proved to be.

"We only worked on it in the last few days before the game, so for the boys to put in a performance like that, and the way we did it first half, was just magnificent," he stated. "It shows that when we put our game together we can blow teams away in this league.

"They didn't have many chances, to be honest with you. They scored in the last minute but it's three points at the end of the day. It was a little bit disappointing to concede but I would've taken 4-1 before kick-off."

Every goal was scored directly in front of the travelling supporters – of which there were more than 1,300 after selling out our allocation – and Husband was pleased to give them plenty to shout about.

"The support was magnificent," he admitted. "It was a packed end and they cheered us on for the whole game and we're delighted that we could get three points for them.

"You could see the boys when we scored, we were all delighted, and hopefully we can go to Burnley on Tuesday night and do something similar.

"It's going to be hard, they're a good team, but all games are hard. We've got to turn up and hopefully put in a performance like we did against Bristol City."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/november/02/husband-we-blew-them-away

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Husband Wants to Come Back to Craven Cottage

These are good times for Fulham.

The last two games have harvested six points; furthermore we`ve scored eight times and only conceded three.

We`re now starting to get that belief that this season can develop into something special, perhaps a promotion via the play-offs.

That belief is starting to spread through the squad and James Husband, on loan at Craven Cottage from Middlesbrough is relishing his time with Fulham.

In fact the 21-year-old, knowing that his emergency loan spell is coming to an end, wants to return in the New Year and has remarked,

"I have to go back on December 14th because the loan deal is up. Then I can`t return to Fulham until January 1st - but I`m enjoying it so much I would love to come back 100 per cent.

Before further adding about the current feeling amongst the squad,

"If we are on song we`re on a par with anyone. All of us think we can do something special this season.

"The squad is starting to get that belief now. We`re capable of beating any team in this league."

Yes we are, if we maintain focus and produce the kind of displays we`ve done in the second half against Reading (h) and the first half against Bristol City (a).


http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=420187

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Championship Preview: will Fulham win at Turf Moor?

Here are The Football Lab's thoughts ahead of Tuesday night's Championship fixtures. All 12 games are covered, including a key relegation clash between goal-shy MK Dons and managerless Charlton, swashbuckling Sheffield Wednesday against unbeaten Brighton and Gray-inspired Burnley versus in-form Fulham.

Andre Gray has settled in at Burnley impressively. The former Brentford man has scored 6 goals for the Clarets since joining and a lot of them have come about from him running in behind defences. He gives Burnley the pace, energy and aggression they need up front, which stretches opposition defences and gives his side's midfielders more time on the ball. Another in-form striker is Fulham's Moussa Dembele, who has netted 5 goals in his last 3 games. The 19-year-old has shown promise this season and if the club can tie him down to a 4 year contract, as Kit Symons is hopeful of doing, Fulham will be in a very strong negotiating position should an elite club make an approach. Burnley are on a good run but equally, Fulham have picked up 18 points from their last 10 games. Scoring 8 goals in their last 2 games may give Fulham the confidence boost they need to cause a shock at Turf Moor.


http://www.thefootballab.co.uk/2015/championship-preview-will-fulham-win-at-turf-moor/?

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Burnley v Fulham

SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP
Venue: Turf Moor Date: Tuesday, 3 November Kick-off: 19:45 GMT
Coverage: Listen on BBC local radio and follow live text commentary on the BBC Sport website

TEAM NEWS
Burnley boss Sean Dyche has no new injury concerns and could welcome back long-term absentees Dean Marney and Kevin Long (both cruciate injuries).

However, Lukas Jutkiewicz and Ashley Barnes are still out with knee injuries.

Fulham are missing defender Jazz Richards (calf) but Scott Parker could return after a long-term ankle problem.

Goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli (knee) and defender Jack Grimmer (ankle) are other notable absentees.

MATCH FACTS
Burnley are unbeaten in their past 25 home league matches against Fulham, winning 20 and drawing five.
Fulham have scored in 11 of their past 12 league encounters with Burnley.
Ross McCormack has five goals in eight appearances against Burnley, though only one of those strikes came at Turf Moor.
Andre Gray has five goals in his past five league appearances for Burnley.
Moussa Dembele has scored seven goals in his past nine league appearances for Fulham; he failed to score any in his previous 19 league appearances.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34644744

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Vital Preview - Burnley v Fulham

Burnley's Championship season continues against Fulham at Turf Moor on Tuesday; with this a 7:45pm kick-off.

If a run of just one defeat in the last 11-matches if continued by Burnley against Fulham tonight, which has seen a good run against them, this could be enough to move the Clarets top of the table if results in the Brighton and Hull games go our way!

Sean Dyche if again fortunate on the injury front, as far as new ones goes as Burnley don't have any to worry about.

Dean Marney and Kevin Long (both cruciate) are working back to fitness but Lukas Jutkiewicz and Ashley Barnes (both knee) are still suffering with long-term setbacks.

Fulham might be able to call upon Scott Parker (ankle) after a long-term injury but Jazz Richards (calf), Marcus Bettinelli (knee) and Jack Grimmer (ankle) will all miss out again.

Burnley haven't lost any of the past 25-mathches against Fulham at home winning 20 of them with the other five drawn so the omens are good! Aren't they!

The Clarets will hope for a positive result, but will this happen?

Whatever the line up expectancy will be high and ahead of the game we're looking for your views on what way you think it will go, which obviously requires you to vote in the latest poll one of three ways....

Burnley win
Fulham win
Draw

Not only do we want you to cast your vote, which you do to your right, we're also looking for your thoughts and views too so do share some of those with your comments below.


http://www.burnley.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=420239

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Fulham striker heaps praise on Burnley ahead of meeting but eyes three points

Ross McCormack impressed by job Sean Dyche has done at Burnley


On the hunt: Ross McCormack

Ross McCormack is excited by the chance to take on promotion chasing Burnley at Turf Moor tonight.

The Clarets are sitting third in the table as the season enters November after relegation from the Premier League last season.

And McCormack was full of praise for the way the Clarets and manager Sean Dyche have gone about their business.

He said: "I see it as a good chance to test ourselves against one of the better teams in the league.

"They've got good players, a good manager and they play good football. But so do we and if we play as well as we did in the first-half we'll give them a right good game."

The contest will be the battle of the leading goalscorers with Andre Gray topping Burnley's charts with eight so far in the Championship.

McCormack, who has seven in the league, knows his side are facing a top striker but trusts the Fulham defence to shut him down.

The Scot added: "He's a good player and scored a few good goals and it'll be up to our defenders to keep him quiet."

The former Leeds man has been pleased with his individual displays but is still keen to find consistency.

He explained: "Personally, it's not been bad. It's nine goals this season. As a team we've been up and down and it's all about in consistency in this game."



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-striker-heaps-praise-burnley-10374387?

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Former Premier League star Dickson Etuhu arrested in Sweden after alleged brawl outside nightclub

The 33-year-old AIK midfielder is in hot water following a row in Stockholm on Sunday night after he was refused entry to the venue

Former Premier League star Dickson Etuhu was arrested after allegedly being involved in a scuffle with security guards and police in Sweden on Sunday night.

The 33-year-old, who has previously played for Manchester City , Sunderland, Fulham and Blackburn, is now plying his trade for Stockholm-based side AIK.

However, the midfielder has landed himself in hot water after the incident outside a nightclub in the area.

A brawl took place after Etuhu and two other men were denied entrance to the venue, with police called to the scene.

The Nigerian has fronted up and released a statement via his club's website.


Switching sides: Etuhu in action for Fulham against former club Manchester City
He said: "I want to confirm that I am the AIK player that was involved in the incident that has been reported in the media during the last two days.

"I'm coming forward because I don't want any more speculation surrounding my team-mates about who was involved and I have always stood up for my actions.

"I have talked to my club and the police about what in my opinion happened on Sunday night, and I will today file a report to the police about what I believe caused the incident and the way the security staff acted.

"I have no further comments since it is now an ongoing police investigation."

AIK's director of football Björn Wesström added: "It's never good news when anyone in our club is involved in this kind of matter.

"I have been in contact with the player and had a good conversation with him in which he calmly gave his version of the story."


http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/former-premier-league-star-dickson-6757507?

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Preview: Burnley v Fulham

Burnley head into another game at Turf Moor looking to record their second victory in three days when they meet Fulham.

Andre Gray's double helped to see off Huddersfield on Saturday and the Clarets stood firm in the face of late pressure from the Terriers after Michael Duff inadvertently put the ball in his own net.

The Clarets now occupy 3rd place in the Sky Bet Championship after an unbeaten October and could go top if they register another three points tonight.

However, visitors Fulham are in form themselves and come to Turf Moor having clocked up successive victories against Reading and Bristol City, scoring eight goals in the process.

Moussa Dembele and Ross McCormack both have seven goals apiece so far this campaign and having gone unbeaten themselves in October, Kit Symons side are likely to provide a stern test of the Clarets credentials.

RECENT FORM
Burnley: WWDWW

Fulham: DDDWW

ONE TO WATCH: MOUSSA DEMBELE
19-year-old Moussa Dembele has been one of the standout performers recently in the Sky Bet Championship.

The French forward has netted seven times and notched two assists for the Whites so far this season. Five of those goals have come in his last three games and the pacey striker will be full of confidence alongside Ross McCormack.

He has represented France at every level from U16s to U20s and played a key role in France U19s reaching the semi-finals of the 2015 European Championships and looks a bright prospect for the future.

LAST TIME OUT
Fulham (Murphy 23, Elm 31, Zamora 54) 3-0 Burnley

Fulham: Schwarzer; Baird, Hughes, Hangeland, Shorey; Duff (Bjorn Helge Riise 76'), Etuhu, Murphy, Davies (Greening 61'); Elm, Zamora (Okaka 70')

Unused substitutes: Zuberbühler, Kelly, Smalling, Nevland

Burnley: Jensen; Mears, Cort (Eagles 31'), Carlisle, Edgar; Elliott (Cork 55'), André Bikey, McDonald, Fox; Nugent (Paterson 75'), Fletcher

Unused substitutes: Weaver, Duff, Blake, Thompson

Ref: C Foy

Attendance: 23,005

TEAM NEWS
Sean Dyche has no fresh injury worries ahead of the visit of Fulham.

Kevin Long is 'more or less fully-fit' after taking part in recent Development Squad fixtures while Dean Marney is going really well after recovering from a minor niggle that delayed his progress.

OFFICIALS
Andrew Madley will officiate tomorrow night's home Sky Bet Championship fixture against Fulham at Turf Moor (7.45pm)

The West Yorkshire referee has been in charge of 16 games so far this season and issued 55 yellow cards and three reds in the process.

The last time he officiated a game involving the Clarets was the 3-0 victory over Derby County in August 2013 at the iPro Stadium.

Three players were booked on that occasion – Ben Mee and Dean Marney for the Clarets and Ben Davies for the hosts.

Mr Madley will be assisted by Mr Anthony Backhouse, Mr Mark Dwyer and Fourth Official Mr Darren Bond.

THEY SAY
Sean Dyche: "They're a good side who've got some very good players and as with anyone in the Championship you have to ready for all and we've made a good show of that.

"That's important that the players have that clarity and focus and so do the fans and I think they do.

"We're still not the finished article but we're showing good signs of being productive."

Kit Symons: "It's going to be tough and we're going to have to defend resolutely and be solid as a unit.

"The one thing that annoyed me a bit on Saturday was that we conceded a goal. It was late and the players were arguing about it which shows our winning mentality.

"We went to Boro and kept a clean sheet, which is a difficult place to go, and we're getting better all the time."

BETTING
Burnley are 10/11 favourites with Sky Bet to get the three points against Fulham tonight, with the draw priced at 13/5 and the visitors at 11/4.

Andre Gray netted twice at the weekend to make it five goals in his last five games. He's priced at 4/1 to open the scoring and 6/1 to score another brace.


Read more at http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/news/article/preview-burnley-v-fulham-2781084.aspx#ulshKMWhFVb3HmyZ.99

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Dyche & Arfield Preview Fulham

Manager Sean Dyche and Scott Arfield have both previewed tonight's clash with Fulham.

Speaking to the Official Site firstly, Dyche warned that with us and Fulham being the two most consistent sides in the Championship according to the stats, form goes out the window tonight.

We have eight wins and one defeat in eleven, and Fulham are unbeaten in five.

'I don`t overthink what`s gone on in the past. You can put all the stats you want into the melting pot and that doesn`t guarantee the next game. We`re well aware of Fulham and we`ve passed on certain bits of information to the team, but it really comes down to the individual focus of the team for that game and how it maps out. It`s fair to say Fulham are a good side. They have some good players on paper and they have been performing on the pitch in recent times, but all of the Championship teams, top middle and bottom, have a demand placed upon themselves. We can`t focus too much on them; we have to focus on our team and that`s what we do. We are humble with that we do, and fully respectful of the opposition. But good performances, over a period, bring wins and that`s the key to it. You can`t cheat the system week-in-and-week-out, so we look for performance markers that are private to us, and when they are hit, we are productive.'

With tonight and then the Wolverhampton Wanderers game ahead of the next international break, Dyche has been pleased with a return of 26 points from an available 33 and he's hoping to see us go into the break on a high with another two good results.

'The relentlessness of this division is well spoken about and we get it. I suggested after the Blackburn game that you have to find different ways of winning and we are doing that. There`s a good mental strength to the team that has been on show recently and that`s invaluable to the group. We certainly understand the physical demands and we are in good shape results and performance-wise. There`s still more detail that I`d like to continue within the group, but we are showing signs of being very productive at the moment. But those four main blocks; tactical, technical, physical and mental all have to be looked after. That`s about the reinforcement of good habits and the support systems needed for them to carry on turning up and playing well.'

As for Arfield, he also talked about not taking our current run of form for granted in the match, as we have to keep taking it one game at a time and doing all we can to get three points without getting carried away.

'The one game at a time mentality stands us in good stead and we take nothing for granted because we know how tough this league is to get out of. It worked two seasons ago and it`s working every game. I don`t know if people really do that but once the Blackburn game was done, it was on to Huddersfield and then the same for tonight. Fulham have been on the television a few times and they move the ball very well and with the two boys up front they`ve got goals in the team. But it always comes back to us and with what we`ve got in the dressing room we feel we can play against anyone and pick up the three points.'

Looking back to the last game against Huddersfield Town, he also ended his interview by saying.

'I think we dominated large periods of the game and they gave themselves a chance in the last few minutes but overall I feel we deserved the victory. The character we`ve got in the dressing room means that when we go in front we`re hard to break down at times. Once we get that goal the togetherness always shines through as well as ability but you need to do the tough things to get the freedom to play.'



Read more: http://www.burnley.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=420287#ixzz3qS5YOMLQ

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Burnley Factfile

Fulham will be looking to bring an end to their Turf Moor curse with a first win there since 1951 when we face Burnley on Tuesday evening.


The opposition

Having kept most of their squad together – Danny Ings aside – following relegation from the Barclays Premier League, hopes were high that Burnley would be able to mount a promotion challenge at the first time of asking.

They actually started the campaign fairly slowly and took just two points from their opening three matches, but they've kicked on drastically since then by winning eight of the subsequent 11 outings.

They go into Tuesday's game on the back of a 2-1 win at home to Huddersfield Town at the weekend. Andre Gray scored twice in that match and now has eight goals for the season – six for the Clarets since joining from Brentford in a multimillion pound deal.

Team news

Manager Sean Dyche has no new injury concerns and could recall Kevin Long to his matchday squad following the defender's return to fitness.

Tickets

Burnley will have tickets available to away supporters to buy from the ground.

How to get there

Burnley Central and Burnley Manchester Road are the two closest stations to Turf Moor, although the former requires fewer changes – just the one – from London Euston. It takes three-and-a-half hours, changing at Preston, and it's then approximately 20 minutes to the ground on foot.

Weather

It will be a brisk evening in Lancashire with temperatures of around nine degrees and the slight possibility of rain.

Coral match odds

Burnley: 10/11

Draw: 11/4

Fulham: 3/1

Last time we met

The Whites began a run of four wins in as many games, across three competitions, when Burnley were soundly beaten at the Cottage more than five years ago.

Danny Murphy got things started midway through the first half when he controlled and volleyed the ball in from David Elm's flick-down, although the big Swede did look offside when Nicky Shorey found him with a high pass into the box.

Burnley also felt aggrieved with Fulham's second eight minutes later, as Bobby Zamora looked to have strayed offside when he collected Chris Baird's long ball down the flank. He then cut inside and drew a low save from Brian Jensen, who could only push the ball out to Elm to easily net his first for the Club.

Tyrone Mings went close for the Clarets when his bending free-kick nicked the post, but Fulham wrapped things up in the second half when Zamora found the bottom corner with a placed set-piece of his own.

http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/november/03/burnley-factfile?