Wednesday Fulham Stuff (30/12/15)...

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Jokanović In Detail

We take a look at new Head Coach Slaviša Jokanović's career in football to date.

As a young player in his native Serbia – or Yugoslavia as it was then known – Jokanović enjoyed success at FK Vojvodina and Partizan Belgrade, where his form attracted the attention of La Liga outfit Real Oviedo, who he joined in 1993.

During his two years at Oviedo he helped the club to two ninth-place finishes and a Copa del Rey Quarter-Final appearance, before moving to Tenerife in the summer of 1995.

In his first season there, Tenerife finished fifth in La Liga, two points and a place above Real Madrid, to earn qualification for the UEFA Cup the following term. His most successful time in Spain was still to come, however, as he helped Deportivo de la Coruna to their first-ever title in 2000.

Chelsea then paid a reported £1.7m to acquire his services, where he made more than 50 appearances across two seasons. During that time he featured twice against Fulham; in a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage in September 2001, and as a late substitute in the FA Cup Semi-Final later that year.

After leaving the Blues, he finished his career at Spanish Segunda B outfit Ciudad de Murcia.

Known primarily as a defensive midfielder, Jokanović is one of Yugoslavia/Serbia's most-capped players, having represented his country on 64 occasions, during which time he scored 10 goals. He played every minute as Yugoslavia were knocked out by the Netherlands at the Round of 16 stage at the 1998 World Cup.

It was the Dutch who knocked them out again two years later at the European Championships, with Jokanović ever present in the Group Stage only for a red card to rule him out of the Quarter-Final meeting.

His first taste of management came with former side Partizan, who he led to consecutive league and cup doubles – a feat never before achieved in the club's history. After leaving Belgrade, he replaced Robbie Fowler at Thai outfit Muangthong United in 2012 and immediately led them to the league title without losing a game all season.

Short spells at Levski Sofia and Hercules followed, before he was appointed Head Coach of Championship side Watford in October 2014. He went on to lead the Hornets to promotion to the Premier League at the first time of asking, and they were only denied the title on the final day.

After leaving Watford in the summer he took up a similar role at Maccabi Tel Aviv, and he took the Israeli side into the Group Stages of the UEFA Champions League for the first time in 11 years.

His first match in the dugout in charge of Fulham will be at home to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday 2nd January, and he will be officially unveiled as our new Head Coach on fulhamfc.com tomorrow (Wednesday 30th December).


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/december/29/jokanovic-in-detail?

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Bournemouth plotting move for Fulham striker

Bournemouth are planning a move for Fulham striker Ross McCormack, according to the Daily Mail.

The Cherries are keen to add some more firepower to their squad in January, as they look to remain in the Premier League for another season. They have suffered with injures, especially to main striker Callum Wilson, and they will certainly be on the lookout for a new forward.

Eddie Howe has reportedly already made an enquiry about the availability of the Fulham man and a move could be agreed in early January.

The Cottagers would usually be very reluctant to part with a key player like McCormack but the club has been placed under a transfer embargo, meaning they will need to sell before they can buy when the winter transfer window opens.

Therefore, several players could be set to leave Craven Cottage and if they can sell the 29-year old on for the £11m they originally bought him for, then they may be forced into doing business as it would bring in a substantial amount of money.

The question is, will Bournemouth be willing to pay that much for the Scottish striker? It's quite a large amount for a Championship striker but bear in mind he has managed to find the back of the net 14 times in 26 games so far this season and if he could continue that form in the Premier League, then he would be worth every penny.


http://the72.co.uk/42992/bournemouth-plotting-move-for-fulham-striker/?

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Why Tottenham should consider Ross McCormack as Kane back up

Why Tottenham Hotspur should consider a move for Ross McCormack to back up Harry Kane.

Tottenham Hotspur have a big opportunity this season as they seek to finish in the top four in the Premier League, and even win the title.

They need to strengthen up front to put them in the best position to do so, and relieve pressure on Harry Kane.

A move for West Brom's Saido Berahino could be an over-priced disaster, with the striker struggling for first team football at the Hawthorns in recent weeks.

Instead of looking at Berahino, or abroad, a surprise move for Spurs would be to look to the Championship to for a new addition.

Tottenham need a player capable of slotting in straight away, who is a proven goalscorer with a point to prove. This is why Fulham's Ross McCormack could be an answer for them.

The Mail report he is a current target for Bournemouth, claiming he is available from Fulham as they seek to cash in.

The Scotsman has an eye for goal which makes him worth Tottenham making an exception for.

   Team   Goals   Appearances
Andre Gray   Brentford / Burnley   15   21
Ross McCormack   Fulham   12   23
Charlie Austin   QPR   10   16
Nick Blackman   Reading   10   24
Fernando Forestieri   Sheff Wed   10   18

At 29-years-old McCormack would not fit the normal profile of a Tottenham signing, but instead of looking long term to the next five to 10 years, the club need to think about instant improvement.

The Scotsman would add to their depth up front, and would not create any division up front. He would be a back up for Harry Kane in attack, but also capable of playing alongside him, or leading the line alone when called upon.


http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2015/12/29/why-tottenham-should-consider-ross-mccormack-as-kane-back-up/?

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Tuesday Evening Results

Brighton	0-1	Ipswich
Cardiff	1-1	Nottm Forest
Fulham	4-1	Rotherham
Leeds	2-2	Derby

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Reports: Fulham expect bids for Man Utd target Moussa Dembele

Fulham are bracing themselves for a flurry of bids for their highly-rated young striker Moussa Dembele next month, according to the Daily Mail.

Dembele has emerged through the Cottagers' renowned youth system and sparkled in the current Championship campaign, scoring nine goals in 22 appearances in England's second tier.

The 19-year-old striker has formed a good partnership with Ross McCormack but the Mail understands Fulham may struggle to keep hold of Dembele when the transfer window opens again in January.

Dembele is being monitored by a host of clubs across Europe with Manchester United, Everton and Tottenham Hotspur all being credited with an interest in England, per the Mail.

Sky Sports also reported earlier this month that United are keeping tabs on Dembele in a bid to add more depth to their striking department, which is currently thin in terms of numbers.

United only have Wayne Rooney and Anthony Martial as recognised strikers in their squad at the moment, having shipped James Wilson out on loan to Brighton and Hove Albion in November.

Everton and Tottenham are also short of options up front and have been linked with moves for a number of forwards, in order to ease the respective goalscoring burdens on Romelu Lukaku and Harry Kane.

The Mail adds that reigning German champions Bayern Munich and Italian outfit Napoli are also keen on Dembele, while his former club Paris Saint-Germain are interested in taking him back to the French capital.

Dembele left PSG to join Fulham's academy in 2012, making his Premier League debut in November 2013 as a late substitute against West Ham United at the Boleyn Ground.



Read more at http://www.squawka.com/news/reports-fulham-expect-bids-for-man-utd-target-moussa-dembele/559120#SsDoKdBMRdtu6pVW.99

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Fulham pay tribute to late great Jimmy Hill prior to Championship win over Rotherham
Jimmy Hill passed away aged 87 after seven-year battle with Alzheimer's
Fulham paid a moving tribute to the club legend on Tuesday evening
The west London club held minute silence before Rotherham clash
A wreath in memory of Hill was also laid on the Craven Cottage pitch
Cauley Woodrow scored a brace as Fulham thrashed Rotherham 4-1

Fulham paid a moving tribute to club legend Jimmy Hill ahead of their 4-1 Sky Bet Championship victory Rotherham on Tuesday.

The former Match of the Day presenter passed away at the age of 87 earlier this month, leaving the world of sport and broadcasting in mourning.

And to remember the late football legend, who spent nine years playing for the west London club, the Cottagers held a minute silence prior to kick-off.


Fulham paid a moving tribute to club legend Jimmy Hill ahead of their clash with Rotherham


To remember the football legend the Cottagers held a minute silence prior to kick-off on Tuesday night


Jimmy Hill, who used to present Match of the Day, passed away aged 87 earlier this month

A wreath in memory of Hill, who is credited with changing modern football across the world, was also laid on the Craven Cottage pitch.

Hill was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2008 and had been living in a care home near the south coast of England for the past three years.

During his successful playing career for Brentford and Fulham, Hill became chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association in 1957 and later a manager at Coventry City.

While at the PFA he succeeded in scrapping the maximum wage for players, paving the way for today's multi-million-pound footballers.


A wreath in memory of Hill, who is regarded as a pioneer in football, was laid on the Craven Cottage pitch


A wreath displaying Hill's first name and the Fulham crest was placed on the pitch prior to kick-off


A tribute to the late, great Jimmy Hill sits in front of the players as they shake hands ahead of kick-of

He also pioneered all-seater stadiums and was instrumental in introducing the 'three points for a win' rule in 1981 that helped transform the modern game into a far more exciting spectacle.

Tuesday's match was Slavisa Jokanovic's first in charge since he was confirmed as Fulham's new head coach - but he watched from the stands.

Young striker Cauley Woodrow scored a brace as the west London club thrashed Rotherham 4-1 to move six points clear of the relegation zone.


Fulham's new boss Slavisa Jokanovic was in the stands as he took charge of his first match at the club


Fulham striker Cauley Woodrow (centre) scored a brace as Fulham thrashed Rotherham 4-1 on Tuesday


Hill on the front cover of Fulham's programme as his immense contribution to the club is remembered


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3378027/Fulham-pay-tribute-late-Jimmy-Hill-ahead-Championship-clash-Rotherham.html#ixzz3vn2O24ET
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Woodrow scores twice in Fulham victory

Fulham 4 Rotherham 1

Cauley Woodrow scored twice as Fulham emphatically secured their first Championship win since October.

New Whites head coach Slavisa Jokanovic watched from the stands as Woodrow, who replaced the injured Moussa Dembele, fired in the opener after six minutes.

Farrend Rawson smashed in Rotherham's equaliser off the crossbar but Woodrow restored the lead when he swept in a Ross McCormack cross just before half-time.

Woodrow turned provider when he crossed for Alex Kacaniklic to skilfully side-foot home the third before McCormack volleyed in the fourth for a first victory in nine games.

The inclusion of young striker Woodrow was one of three changes to the side that lost at Derby, with Dembele struggling with a hamstring strain since Boxing Day. Scott Parker and Tom Cairney also started.

Woodrow was immediately lively and rounded Millers keeper Lee Camp to slot into an empty net.

The visitors responded superbly and controlled the rest of the first half, with Rawson's effort cannoning off the crossbar and over the line before bouncing back out, after Kirk Broadfoot's header was blocked by a defender.

But after failing to get on the end of a number of crosses from Kacaniklic and Ryan Fredericks, Woodrow made it 2-1 from McCormack's excellent delivery in the 45th minute.

Fulham, in their final match under caretaker boss Stuart Gray, had more control in the second half and, after Andy Lonergan denied Grant Ward and Jonson Clarke-Harris at the other end, Kacaniklic turned in another low cross from the right, this time from Woodrow, on the hour mark.

McCormack wrapped up the points from inside the box late on and Woodrow might have had a hat-trick when he pounced on a mistake by Camp and sent a looping header over both the stricken keeper and the crossbar.

Fulham (4-2-2):Lonergan; Fredericks, Stearman, Burn, Ream; Cairney (O'Hara 87), Parker (Smith 80), Hyndman, Kacaniklic (Pringle 73); McCormack, Woodrow
Subs not used: Lewis, Garbutt, Hutchinson, Mattila.


http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/woodrow-scores-twice-in-fulham-victory?

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Fulham 4-1 Rotherham: Cauley Woodrow bags double as new boss Slavisa Jokanovic watches Craven Cottage win from stands
Fulham's Cauley Woodrow struck first after six minutes at Craven Cottage
Rotherham defender Farrend Rawson slammed in equaliser on 20 minutes
England U21 forward Woodrow, 21, restored Fulham's lead before break
Alex Kacaniklic and Ross McCormack struck in the second half for hosts
Emphatic result ends a nine-game winless run for the Cottagers
Tributes paid to late former player and chairman Jimmy Hill before match

Cauley Woodrow took his chance to impress new boss Slavisa Jokanovic with two goals and an assist that ended Fulham's nine game winless run.

Fulham appointed former Watford boss Jokanovic this week and he met the players before kick off before watching from the stands.

And he must have been pleased with what he saw as Woodrow scored twice in the first half and then Alex Kacaniklic and Ross McCormack made sure of the result in the second.


Fulham's Cauley Woodrow (centre) salutes the crowd after giving the hosts the lead on Tuesday night


Rotherham, sitting in 21st in the Championship, hit back through defender Farrend Rawson (left) on 20 minutes


Fulham players celebrate Alex Kacaniklic's strike as he gives his side a two-goal bugger at Craven Cottage


Fulham's new manager Slavisa Jokanovic in the stands as he takes charge of his first match at the club

Interim head coach Stuart Gray was satisfied to sign off his tenure with a win and believes Jokanovic's presence helped, he said: 'You get satisfaction in a result and also as a coach in a performance.

'Any new manager in the stands is going to have an impact, but you cannot fault their application and effort. We have been a bit unlucky in front of goal, but the harder you work the luckier you get and that has paid off tonight.

'Woodrow has come in tonight and got two good goals, McCormack's finish was excellent and Kacaniklic has kept getting in the right areas and tonight he has got his reward.

'I'm looking forward to working with Slavisa, he got Watford promoted so he knows all about the Championship. I am sure I will learn off him and he might learn off me.'

Fulham were a side that had not won since October but certainly looked eager to impress the new boss from the start.


England Under 21 forward Woodrow rolls his first goal into the back of the net after rounding keeper Lee Camp


Teenage defender Rawson hits his shot high into the back of the net after winning the battle of a crowded box


Ryan Fredericks clears off the line for Fulham as Rotherham go close to snatching the lead

It was Woodrow who gave Fulham the perfect start when he latched on to Scott Parker's ball and rounded Lee Camp before tapping the ball into an empty net after just six minutes.

Kacaniklic then combined well with McCormack and went close with a shot from distance that had Camp diving to his left to keep it out.

Kacaniklic had another chance to double the lead with a shot from the left side of the penalty area that went just wide of the far post.

But for all of Fulham's possession and chances they were unable to extend their advantage and Rotherham levelled midway through the half when Farrend Rawson smashed the ball in off the underside of the cross bar after Kirk Broadfoot's header was only half cleared.

Fulham had the chance to re-take the lead shortly after the half hour mark when Kacaniklic crossed from the left and the ball just evaded the waiting Woodrow at the near post.

McCormack then had an even better chance to put Fulham ahead when he played a neat one-two with Emerson Hyndman - but he shot tamely at Camp.

But on the stoke of half time they did go ahead when Woodrow was on hand to turn in McCormack's cross for six yards out.


Kacaniklic drives with his left foot for the Cottagers' third of the match as they seek to impress their new boss


Ross McCormack gets himself on the scoresheet with Fulham's fourth to put the result beyond doubt


A wreath tribute to the late, great Jimmy Hill sits in front of the players as they shake hands ahead of kick-of

The match was preceded by tributes to former Fulham player and chairman Jimmy Hill who died on December 19.

A number of Hill's family and former team-mates were at Craven Cottage to pay tribute to the man who did so much for Fulham and football in general.

The fact that the club still exists today is largely down to Hill, who when he fought off moves to merge Fulham with local rivals Queens Park Rangers in the late-1980s and sell their Thames-side grounds to real estate developers.

The 16,333 fans who were at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night were keen to show their respects to Hill and the Fulham players looked keen to pay do the same with a performance and result that would have made Hill proud.

On the hour mark their work was rewarded when McCormack released Woodrow down the right wing and the England U21 international's low cross was bundled over the line by Kacaniklic.


Mascots and referees await the players at Craven Cottage ahead of the match as tributes are paid to Hill


Players and the crowd join in a minute's applause in honour of Hill, a former Fulham player and chairman


Hill on the front cover of Fulham's match programme as his immense contribution to the club is remembered

In Fulham's last three wins they scored four goals - against QPR, Reading and Bristol City - and they matched that tally as McCormack made it 4-1 to put the result beyond doubt with an excellent volley on the turn.

Woodrow almost completed his hat-trick when Camp made a mess of a clearance and the striker headed just over the bar.

Despite Fulham having the best of the chances, Rotherham almost pulled a goal back when Joe Mattock's header from point-blank range was tipped over the bar by Andy Lonergan.

Rotherham boss Neil Redfearn said: 'I'm frustrated more than disappointed. I don't think it was a 4-1 result, we certainly had chances and if it had been 5-5 I don't think anyone could have complained.

'The players have done well to get out of the bottom three and we have to make sure we stay out of it.'

But for their finishing alone Fulham deserved the three points - a concept introduced by Hill in 1981 - and can look forward to a new chapter under Jokanovic. 


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3378072/Fulham-4-1-Rotherham-Cauley-Woodrow-bags-double-new-boss-Slavisa-Jokanovic-watches-Craven-Cottage-win-stands.html#ixzz3vn57wM00
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Slavisa Jokanovic watches on as Fulham thump Rotherham

Whites end 2015 with a comfortable victory over struggling Millers


Best foot forward: Cauley Woodrow scores; Lee Camp looks on helpless

Slavisa Jokanovic watched from the stands as Fulham ended 2015 in style by claiming a 4-1 win over struggling Rotherham to produce a fitting tribute to departed legend Jimmy Hill, who passed away before Christmas.

The Serb signed an 18-month contract with the club on Sunday after leaving Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Cauley Woodrow would have caught the eye as he scored twice in the first-half with two well taken finishes.

The first came in the opening exchanges as he was played through by Scott Parker before rounding goalkeeper Lee Camp and slotting home.


Cottage legend: A tribute is paid to the late Jimmy Hill prior

The second was a striker's finish as he latched onto Ross McCormack's cross to give Fulham a half-time lead.

They had been pegged back briefly as their frailties defending set-pieces was exposed yet again with Farrend Rawson lashing home after the home side couldn't defend a corner.

Woodrow turned provider just before the hour mark as his cross was turned home by Alex Kacaniklic after some superb play from McCormack.


Watching brief: Slavisa Jokanovic watches Fulham against Rotherham

The Scot had his goal with 20 minutes remaining when he lashed home from 12 yards after a superb control and turn.

There was still time for Woodrow to be denied a hat-trick as Camp saved when through on goal before his long-range header went over the bar.


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/slavisa-jokanovic-watches-fulham-thump-10664661?

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Slaviša Jokanović watched his new Fulham side secure an excellent 4-1 win over Rotherham United at Craven Cottage.

Fulham 4-1 Rotherham

Slaviša Jokanović watched his new Fulham side secure an excellent 4-1 win over Rotherham United at Craven Cottage on Tuesday evening.

Our new Head Coach was viewing from the stands as Cauley Woodrow put the Whites in front early on, before Farrend Rawson smashed home an equaliser following a corner.

Another smart Woodrow finish ensured his team went into the break in front, and he went from scorer to provider after the restart when Alexander Kačaniklić turned in his low cross.

Fulham weren't done there, though, and wrapped proceedings up through Ross McCormack when he brought the ball down in the area and volleyed in on the turn.

In his final game taking charge of the team, Senior Coach Stuart Gray made three changes to the side that lost at Derby County on Boxing Day. Scott Parker, Tom Cairney and Woodrow all came in, with Jamie O'Hara, Luke Garbutt and Moussa Dembélé the men to make way.

Woodrow had been waiting patiently for his chance in the First Team all season and he needed just six minutes to take it. After Rotherham failed to convincingly clear a free-kick, Parker's ball through the middle was dummied by McCormack and collected by Woodrow who kept his cool to round Lee Camp and find the net from a tight angle.

The Whites were looking confident under the floodlights and Kačaniklić took aim from 25 yards in the 13th minute, although it was too close to Camp to cause him any real concern.

The Millers almost drew level with quarter of an hour played when Tony Andreu's corner looked to be dropping in at the far post, but thankfully Ryan Fredericks was well positioned on the line to clear.

Lee Frecklington then let fly with a swerving effort from the edge of the box that needed to be watched and beaten away by Lonergan.

It was an entertaining opening to the game and Fulham were next to go close when Kačaniklić allowed Woodrow's flick-on to go across his body before volleying towards the far post, only to miss the target by a matter of inches.

Continuing the end-to-end theme, Danny Ward then twice went close; firstly turning sharply and drawing a good save from Lonergan, before seeing a rising strike clip Tim Ream to head over the bar for a corner.

That set-piece did bring about the equaliser. Kirk Broadfoot saw his header cleared from near the line to where Rawson was lurking, and he crashed a first time strike in off the crossbar.

The goal gave the visitors a boost and they went close to a second shortly after when Joe Newell connected with a deep cross, but he could only put his half volley into the side-netting.

It wasn't until the 28th minute that Fulham created their next opening, but Ream's header from Cairney's inswinging free-kick flew some way wide.

They tried something similar on the half hour mark, with McCormack this time delivering the set-piece, but Richard Stearman was always up against it to control his header after the ball had bounced and he could only help it on its way wide.

The Whites then had some joy through Kačaniklić down the left as he caused havoc with two dangerous crosses, before seeing a wicked strike deflect behind.

The lead should have been restored two minutes before half-time when a one-two between Hyndman and McCormack culminated in the latter being played clean through, but Camp read where he was going and got down well to save.

But moments later the second goal did arrive, with McCormack the architect as his beautiful cross was swept in by Woodrow who had got in front of his marker in the six yard box.

Three minutes after the restart McCormack had the ball in the net with a lovely scooped finish, but the flag was already up as he ran onto a defence-splitting Parker pass.

The hosts had started the second period the stronger of the two sides but Rotherham should have equalised on 52 when Andreu's perfectly weighted pass sent Grant Ward in on goal, but his powerful shot was too close to Lonergan who firmly palmed the ball away.

Andreu was then replaced by Millers boss Neil Redfearn, with Jonson Clarke-Harris – who scored in the reverse fixture earlier in the season – coming on in his place.

It was Fulham's turn to threaten next when McCormack sent Fredericks in behind the static Rotherham backline, but his cutback couldn't find a man in white.

Clarke-Harris then made an immediate impact at the other end, as his vicious left-footer from distance needed pushing over the bar by Lonergan. The home fans were furious, though, as that chance came seconds after Fredericks seemed to be denied a stonewall free-kick for a body-check at the other end of the pitch.

You got the feeling the next goal was going to be crucial and thankfully it was Fulham who got it. A determined run by McCormack ended with him sliding Woodrow in to his right and his low ball across the face was swept into the far corner by Kačaniklić.

United responded by replacing Frazer Richardson – who seemed to take a knock as he tried to keep Kačaniklić's effort out – with Paul Green, in what was an attacking switch.

But with 69 minutes on the clock, McCormack made sure of the points once and for all. Rotherham failed to clear a deep free-kick, allowing Dan Burn to nod the ball back into the Scotsman's path and he made the rest look easy as he controlled the ball and struck a fierce volley on the swivel that left Camp with no chance.

It could have been five in the 72nd minute when Cairney played Woodrow in. He had Hyndman in space in the middle but, sensing a hat-trick, drilled an effort in on goal that was parried away by Camp.

The Rotherham goalkeeper was then called into action by former Millers man Ben Pringle who tried his luck from 30 yards, seconds after coming on for Kačaniklić.

Woodrow came close to securing the matchball in spectacular fashion with quarter of an hour remaining. After closing Camp down, the goalkeeper skewed his clearance high into the air and Woodrow had the confidence to attempt a long range header which looked to be landing in, only to nestle on the roof of the net.

Parker – who had enjoyed an excellent game in midfield – was then withdrawn to make way for Matt Smith.

In fairness to the visitors, they kept plugging away and almost got their reward when Joe Mattock headed goalwards from a matter of yards, but Lonergan pulled off a phenomenal reflex save to push it up and onto the bar, before it dribbled backwards onto the top of the netting.

Cairney was given a rest with four minutes remaining as O'Hara came on in his place, and moments later a chorus of "For Jimmy Hill, stand up" broke out, to which every home fan duly obliged.

And our former player and Chairman would no doubt have approved of the performance at Craven Cottage, as Fulham brought the curtain down on 2015 in style with a first win in 10.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/first-team/2015_2016/league/home/rotherham-united

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Dembele injury 'a minor thing'

Stuart Gray praised Cauley Woodrow after the young striker replaced Moussa Dembele and scored twice in Fulham's 4-1 win against Rotherham.

Dembele was not in the squad, having pulled up in training ahead of the match at Craven Cottage.

Gray, who oversaw the victory in his final game as caretaker boss, said: "It's only a minor thing.
"He tried to train yesterday but felt it tighten up so it was best not to risk it.

"But one man's loss is another man's gain and Cauley Woodrow has come in with an excellent performance and two great goals."

Gray insists he is looking forward to working with Fulham's new head coach Slavisa Jokanovic, who watched the game from the stands.

Gray, who was interviewed for the head coach role but will now revert to being part of Jokanovic's coaching staff, said: "I'm looking forward to it.

"I'm sure I'll learn off him and hopefully he will learn off me. He got Watford promoted so he knows about the Championship. Obviously I'll pass on my knowledge and experience of the league as well.

"I've only met him briefly. He met the players about an hour before kick-off and I had a few minutes with him. But we'll sit down tomorrow and have a chat.

"I'm sure any new manager in the stands will have an affect but you cannot fault the effort they've put in in training since I've been here.

"The boys have shown tonight how hard they've worked. We've lacked a little bit of self-belief at times but they showed it tonight."


http://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/football-wls-gray-explains-dembele-absence

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Five things we learned from Fulham's thumping win over Rotherham

Expert analysis from a top performance as Whites grind down the not so Merry Millers


Job done: Cauley Woodrow of Fulham celebrates his second goal

Fulham equalled their best win of the season in front of new boss Slavisa Jokanovic who was served up a treat as Whites beat Rotherham 4-1 - their first victory in nine games.

But as Joka's new team moved up to 18th in the Championship, what did we learn from a better night at the Cottage?

Cauley Woodrow should kick on and give Moussa Dembele stiff competition
Where has Woodrow been? The young striker looked a world beater against Rotherham with a brace of goals. He should have notched a hat-trick, but he's not been in good nick for most of the season.

This time he took his chances and if he does a number on Sheffield Wednesday this Saturday, he must surely give the new manager a headache.


Hand up: Cauley Woodrow of Fulham celebrates

Ross McCormack is worth every penny of the £11m Fulham paid for him
QPR fans rave about Charlie Austin, but Mac in a struggling side has been the one consistent factor as Fulham floundered. He had a near 50 percent hand in all Fulham goals against the Millers as well as scoring his 15th of the season in all competitions.

Fulham hate crosses
No jokes about Whites being like Dracula, please. But the one Rotherham goal was a delivery from the wing. There have been loads so far, and if Jokanovic has a priority - it's to stop goals from similar deliveries, dead balls or otherwise.


Foot up: Grant Ward of Rotherham United tries his luck

Rotherham are poor
You can only beat the side in front of you, as they say. But if they were all like the hapless Millers, Fulham would be top of the table.

Whites won't find it as easy against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, but it was a very overdue and welcome three points.

It might be a miracle to dream of the play-offs, but...
...if Joka can weave the same magic he did at Watford, then maybe, just maybe. The Whites are not that bad a side, but they do need better organising at the back and a new dose of confidence.


Watching brief: Slavisa Jokanovic watches Fulham against Rotherham


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/five-things-learned-fulhams-thumping-10664677?

[WhiteJC]

 
Slavisa Jokanovic sees Fulham beat Rotherham for first win in 10 games

The new Fulham manager, Slavisa Jokanovic, watched from the stands as the Cottagers enjoyed a 4-1 victory over Rotherham at Craven Cottage.

Jokanovic agreed to return to England on Sunday night after the west London club negotiated the former Watford manager's release from the Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv. He will be hoping this was a taste of things to come as his presence inspired Fulham to their first Championship victory in 10 attempts.

Cauley Woodrow made the most of his first start of the season by scoring twice and providing another for Alexander Kacaniklic before Ross McCormack rounded off the scoring with his 15th goal of the campaign, with Farrend Rawson having drawn Rotherham level after Woodrow's opener.

Jokanovic, due to be formally presented as manager on Wednesday, could not have enjoyed a much brighter start to life in charge as Woodrow took advantage of slack defending from the visitors to convert the first chance of the game after six minutes.

Scott Parker played a pass towards the edge of the area and McCormack stepped over the ball, leaving Woodrow through on goal as the forward kept his composure to round the goalkeeper, Lee Camp, and score his third goal of the campaign – and his first in four months since scoring in the reverse fixture.

Kacaniklic might have doubled the home side's lead moments later with an angled drive that bounced just to the right of goal, before Rotherham were into their stride and went close four times in quick succession.

Ryan Fredericks spared the Fulham goalkeeper Andrew Lonergan's blushes by heading Tony Andreu's corner off the line, before Lonergan was called on to parry Lee Frecklington's low drive to safety, with Danny Ward then having two efforts deflected just wide.

After 20 minutes the home side's frailty against set pieces was exposed as their defence managed to block Kirk Broadfoot's header from Joe Newell's corner before Broadfoot's partner in central defence rifled in a drive off the underside of the bar. The referee, Simon Hooper, was quick to adjudge Rawson's effort had crossed the line before it bounced back into play.

A lull in proceedings followed before the visitors' back-line switched off to the threat of Emerson Hyndman's through-ball, but McCormack telegraphed his effort when through on goal and Camp saved to his left.

However McCormack did not rue his miss for long as he whipped in a superb low cross in the final minute of the half with Woodrow getting across Broadfoot to steer home.

Woodrow then turned provider after 59 minutes, making his way down the right before providing Kacaniklic with a simple finish from close range.

With a two-goal deficit to make up, the visitors threw caution to the wind but to no avail. Fulham had their fourth when McCormack chested down Dan Burn's header and swivelled to fire in a fine strike after 69 minutes that completed the scoring.


http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/dec/29/fulham-manager-slavisa-jokanovic-rotherham?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham bag four in emphatic win under new manager Slavisa Jokanvic

Fulham marked the first match of Slavisa Jokanovic's reign as manager with an impressive 4-1 victory over Rotherham that took them six points above the Sky Bet Championship's relegation zone.

The result also means that relegation-threatened Rotherham, who remain 21st, are out of the bottom three only on goal difference. They had previously a game in hand on 22nd-placed Bristol City.

Cauley Woodrow had required only six minutes to score the first goal under Jokanovic, who was appointed on Sunday and watched Tuesday's action from the stands, and although Farrend Rawson equalised for the visitors in the 20th minute, Woodrow's second restored Fulham's advantage just before half-time.

Alexander Kacaniklic added a third in the 58th minute, before Ross McCormack ended any prospect of a Rotherham comeback 10 minutes later by scoring Fulham's fourth.

A late equaliser from Tom Ince earned Derby a 2-2 draw at Leeds and strengthened the Rams' grip on second place.


Jeff Hendrick had put the visitors in front in only the 13th minute, and although Sol Bamba equalised shortly before half-time, and Chris Wood headed Leeds in front with 20 minutes remaining, Ince scored a 78th-minute leveller to rescue a point.

Derby trail league leaders Middlesbrough by only a point, having played an additional game, and are four ahead of third-placed Hull. Leeds climb above Reading, into 12th.

Ipswich strengthened their pursuit of a play-off place with an impressive 1-0 win at fellow promotion contenders Brighton.

Brighton began the evening hoping victory would take them above Derby and into second place, but Daryl Murphy secured a surprise victory with the game's only goal in the 32nd minute.

The result takes sixth-placed Ipswich within four points of joint-third-placed Hull and Brighton, who both have 44 points, and moves them four ahead of Sheffield Wednesday, who remain seventh.

Cardiff also hope to reach the play-offs, but they dropped two valuable points in a 1-1 home draw with Nottingham Forest.

Oliver Burke's classy finish gave Forest the lead in only the ninth minute, but Aron Gunnarsson's deflected shot, just four minutes later, brought Cardiff level.

Cardiff, in 10th, trail the play-offs by six points. Forest are 14th, with a total of 30 points.


http://www.eurosport.co.uk/football/championship/2015-2016/new-fulham-boss-jokanovic-enjoys-fab-four-for-cottagers_sto5042477/story.shtml?

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 4-1 Rotherham: Stuart Gray and Neil Redfearn reaction

Slavisa Jokanovic's Championship experience will be vital says Fulham interim coach Stuart Gray.

Stuart Gray believes Slavisa Jokanovic's experience of the Sky Bet Championship will be crucial if Fulham are to avoid another relegation battle this season following their 4-1 victory over Rotherham at Craven Cottage on Tuesday evening.

Jokanovic steered Watford to promotion last season before leaving for Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv, who he departed on Sunday following a six-month stint in order return to England.

The 47-year-old met the players prior to kick-off before watching the game from the stands, as interim head coach Gray took charge for the final time and secured the club's first victory in 10 matches.

"He met the players an hour before kick-off and he came and introduced himself and I got two minutes with him and we'll sit down tomorrow and have a chat as well," Gray said.

"I'm sure with any new manager in the stand people are always going to say it has an effect. You cannot fault the players' application and commitment they've put in. We've just been a little bit lucky in front of goal and tonight we got that luck.

"I'm looking forward to working with him and I'll learn off him and hopefully he'll learn off me. He got Watford promoted so he knows about the Championship and obviously I'll pass on my knowledge and experience of the Championship as well.

"You can get a little bit lacking in confidence but I never doubted these players.

"We know we've got goals in us but now we've got to start keeping clean sheets. If we start keeping clean sheets then we'll rocket up this league."

Cauley Woodrow started his first league game of the season for Fulham and scored twice against Rotherham

Cauley Woodrow netted his first goal in four months after six minutes before Farrend Rawson drew Rotherham level.

Woodrow, making his first league start of the season, then put Fulham back ahead just before half-time and turned provider for Alexander Kacaniklic 14 minutes after the break.

McCormack completed the scoring for the hosts in the 69th minute with his 15th goal of the season.

Rotherham manager Neil Redfearn wants reinforcements to help the Millers avoid the drop with just goal difference separating them from Bristol City in the drop zone.

He said: "When we got back to 1-1 I thought we were the better side and they looked a bit fragile. They concede a few goals at home and they looked like they were wobbling a bit. But we took our foot off the gas and full credit to them.

"I'm frustrated more than disappointed and if it had finished five each then it would have been about right. But they've got quality players that can hurt you.

"To be fair we've got a small squad of players and it's difficult to rotate. We've got ourselves out of the bottom three and we want to stay out of it and the lads need some help.

"There're players at other Championship clubs that could make us better. We know where we want to strengthen and we've got our targets in place."


http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11688/10113986/fulham-4-1-rotherham-stuart-gray-and-neil-redfearn-reaction?

[WhiteJC]

 
Woodrow double downs Rotherham
by DAN on DECEMBER 30, 2015

Cauley Woodrow constructed a compelling case for a regular starting spot under Slavisa Jokanovic as he scored twice in front of Fulham's new head coach to inspire the Whites to their first win in ten games against Rotherham United.

The England under-21 international, who replaced the injury Moussa Dembele as one of three changes in Stuart Gray's final team selection before he hands over the reigns to Jokanovic, opened the scoring in the sixth minute and then steered in a vital second just before half-time to restore Fulham's lead and calm the nerves around Craven Cottage, with the home side looking vulnerable at the back. Woodrow made the vital third after the break with a barnstorming run down the left and leaving him out of the line-up to face Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday will be tough.

Fulham's win was much needed after their turbulent search for a replacement for Kit Symons threatened to drag them into a relegation scrap. Rotherham, buoyed by a thumping win over Bolton Wanderers at the weekend, travelled south hoping to extend their own good run of form and edge Fulham closer to the drop zone, but they fell behind to the first clear cut chance. Skipper Scott Parker, another who returned to the side this evening, nodded a pass forward towards Ross McCormack, whose clever dummy, allowed the ball to run through for Woodrow. The former Luton forward darted behind the Rotherham defence, skipped around Lee Camp and coolly tapped home his first goal in four months.

Alex Kacaniklic might have made it two a few minutes later when his low drive was thwarted by an onrushing Grant after another clever McCormack pass, but Fulham's defensive frailties were soon apparent. Ryan Fredericks headed an inswinging Tony Andreu corner off the line and Andy Lonergan palmed away a powerful drive from Lee Frecklington. Danny Ward had two shots deflected behind before Rotherham's pressure paid off. From another corner, Kirk Broadfoot was given far too much room to head at goal and, although Fulham smothered that effort, Ferran Rawson rifled home the equaliser via the underside of the crossbar.

Fulham threatened again when a clever ball from American midfielder Emerson Hyndman released McCormack, but Camp was equal to his effort when one-on-one, saving away to his left. The Scottish striker made amends, however, with a gorgeous cross from the right, which Woodrow guided superbly into the far corner a minute before the break having stolen half a yard on Broadfoot. Woodrow was making the most of his first start in the league and he helped put the contest beyond the visitors just before the hour. His superb run down the right, following a McCormack pass, culminated in a low cross that a stretching Kacaniklic diverted home at the near post.

The Millers threw men forward in search of a route back into the contest, but despite creating a couple of good openings, it was Fulham who added a more convincing gloss to the scoreline. McCormack rifled home a deserved goal from ten yards with a powerful volley after Dan Burn had nodded down a free-kick. The comprehensive win lifted Fulham to eighteenth in the table, some six points above the drop zone, and gave Jokanovic a glimpse of some of the attacking talent he has at his disposal.

FULHAM (4-4-2): Lonergan; Fredericks, Ream, Stearman, Burn; Parker (Smith 80), Hyndman, Cairney (O'Hara 87), Kacaniklic (Pringle 72); McCormack, Woodrow. Subs (not used): Lewis, Hutchinson, Garbutt, Matilla.

GOALS: Woodrow (6, 44), Kacaniklic (59), McCormack (69).

ROTHERHAM UNITED (4-4-1-1): Camp; Richardson (Green 62), Mattock, Rawson, Broadfoot; Frecklington, Smallwood, G. Ward, Newell; Andreu (Clarke-Harris 55); D. Ward (Derbyshire 84). Subs (not used): Collin, Collins, Ledesma, Thorpe.

GOAL: Rawson (20).

REFEREE: Simon Hooper (Wiltshire)

ATTENDANCE: 16,333.


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2015/12/woodrow-double-downs-rotherham/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Gray delighted with Fulham win
by DAN on DECEMBER 30, 2015

Stuart Gray was delighted to end his caretaker spell in charge of Fulham with a thumping win over Rotherham United at Craven Cottage – and plans to sit down with Slavisa Jokanovic to discuss his role under the club's new head coach after training tomorrow.

The former Sheffield Wednesday manager, who has overseen Fulham's last three matches, guided the Whites to a first win in ten games since the sacking of Kit Symons as Cauley Woodrow scored twice in a 4-1 win. He was delighted with the manner of the victory, which gives Fulham a six point cushion above the Championship relegation zone:

You get satisfaction from the result, but as a coach you get satisfaction from the performance. We played quickly; we played forward, and the goals we scored were fantastic.

But our Achilles heel is from set pieces – and we conceded yet again. I wouldn't say we lacked confidence; we lacked self belief. Our problem is getting the first goal and once we got that it made a difference.

Gray revealed that Jokanovic introduced himself to the players prior to the match and is keen to work with the former Watford manager in the days to come.

He came in and introduced himself and I had two minutes with him, and we'll sit down tomorrow and talk as well. Any new manager in the stands is going to have an effect, but the harder you work the luckier you get.

I'm sure I'll learn from him and him from me. He got Watford promoted, and I'll pass on what I know about the Championship.

Gray told the post-match press conference that man-of-the-match Woodrow got his opportunity to start after Moussa Dembele, linked with a move away from Fulham in the forthcoming January window, injured a hamstring in training.

It's only a minor thing and he (Dembele) just felt it tighten in training yesterday. One man's loss is another man's gain, and Cauley Woodrow came in and did excellently and took his two goals really well.


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2015/12/gray-delighted-with-fulham-win/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Is Fulham striker heading for the Cherries?

The news that The Daily Mail and Shoot brought about Ross McCormack, 29, being a target for Eddie Howe this transfer window certainly excites me. While Fulham are in a fight to ensure their Championship status, they have brought in Slavisa Jokanovic who got Watford promoted last season and Ross may not be part of the new manager's plans if he himself wants to add new firepower to the Cottagers.

Ross McCormack is Fulham's top scorers on 15 goals and added his latest goal to that total last night with a 4-1 win over Rotherham Utd. While Ross really hit the headlines for his goalscoring at Leeds Utd, he has continued to bag plenty of goals for Fulham and is a goalscorer who has a good range of finishing both inside and outside the box. He is also a Scottish international even though he has not been selected for some time.

Looking at the Cherries front line, they would benefit from a player who is quick with his feet in and around the box and if Charlie Austin is too expensive then Ross would seem to fit the bill to me. While he has not had Premier League experience, he would not demand such a high wage and would be a player that would surely relish the chance to play in the Premier League.

I think Ross would also be a player that might bring more out of Lee Tomlin as well. Lee has not really managed to get into the side and with Ross liking to have short passes played into him in and around the box it is possible that Eddie might look to play with Lee in the side more often if he wanted to move King back out to the wing.


http://afcbchimes.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/is-fulham-striker-heading-for-cherries.html

[Fulham1959]

"Fulham players celebrate Alex Kacaniklic's strike as he gives his side a two-goal bugger at Craven Cottage"

Daily Mail picture caption !

I also like this from the official site :

"It was a fairly evening game in terms of chances created"