Monday Fulham Stuff (05/03/18)...

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Fulham boss tips teenage sensation Ryan Sessegnon for England World Cup call-up after victory at Derby County

Seventeen-year-old netted his 10th goal in 12 games in 2-1 success against the Rams at Pride Park Stadium

Head coach Slavisa Jokanovic has tipped Ryan Sessegnon for an England World Cup call-up after the teenage sensation helped Fulham to victory over Derby County.

Sessegnon was on target as Jokanovic's men claimed an impressive 2-1 win over their Championship promotion rivals at Pride Park Stadium on Saturday.

The 17-year-old wide man now has 14 goals this season - and 10 in his past 12 outings.

Although he is yet to be capped at senior level, Sessegnon is ready for the big international stage, according to Jokanovic, who reckons Gareth Southgate could do worse than include the youngster in his squad for the World Cup in Russia this summer.

"I started working with him when he was 16 years and two months or something like that and I believe he can be part of the English national team for the World Cup," said the Fulham boss.

"I cannot recommend him to people but nobody can make mistakes with this kid. Experience is important but he is a really expert player for his age at this moment.

"I will repeat, if the national team don't take this decision this time, they will push him for the next European tournament.

"It's evident that if he doesn't have any injury problems, he will be a top player.

"He is not a kid, he is a man and he gives myself, the club and his team-mates many things and we try to support him and make him still better than he is right now."



https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ryan-sessegnon-england-fulham-derby-1294022

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Fulham player ratings as Newcastle man Aleksandar Mitrovic makes it three goals in three games

It's three points on the road for Fulham, but how did we rate Slavisa Jokanovic's team?

Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ryan Sessegnon goals gave Fulham a 2-1 win over Derby County and ensured they made up space on their rivals on a day many of them fell foul of the weather.

Slavisa Jokanovic made just the one change for this tie, with Denis Odoi coming into the starting XI in place of Tomas Kalas, who dropped out of the squad altogether with a slight hip injury.

Mitrovic got Fulham the lead after just ten minutes when his shot took a deflection after a nice lob in by Stefan Johansen.

You can't have a Fulham game without Sessegnon scoring, and he made sure that continued when he doubled the lead - firing into the bottom corner after Johansen backheeled it to the 17-year-old.

Derby hit back through Tom Huddlestone - the away side will feel aggrieved with the freekick conceded in the build-up but should've done better clearing their lines.

Here's how we rated the side:

Bettinelli 7: Did what he had to do well once again and claimed crosses with ease. Nearly let Derby in with a mistake but Ream was there to mop up. Great save at the death.

Fredericks 7: Attacked down the right and gave problems to his marker.

Odoi 7: Did well coming into the centre back role and dealt with the presence of Jerome well.

Ream 9: Was solid once again in the first 45 and put in a number of big challenges. Colossal performance once again.

Targett 7: Strong defensive performance from the loan man for the first 45. Did well under pressure during the second 45.

McDonald 8: Another steady performance in the anchor role from McDonald. Match saving block right at the end.

Johansen 8: Two wonderful assists for both Fulham goals. Was a machine in the midfield but a yellow game for a cynical challenge meant he was replaced early for Norwood as Derby started to break through the middle.

Cairney 8: Marvellous first half performance as he dictated play and made the Derby players chase shadows.

Ayite 7: Did well and caused problems drifting from the right, but a few times could've done better with his first touch.

Mitrovic 8: Caused a problem up front and got his third goal in as many games. Outstanding hold-up play, adding that little bit extra that Fulham have lacked in the past.

Sessegnon 7: All he needs is a touch and he scored - he did well to get another today. Struggled at points against Wisdom but another solid showing.

Subs -

Norwood 7: Brought on to combat Derby in the middle as they looked to break through the lines.

Piazon 6: Gave a good account of himself when he was on the pitch but didn't have too much of an impact on the game.

Ojo 6: Brought on with a couple of minutes left to steady the ship at give Fulham an outlet down the right.



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/derby-fulham-player-ratings-championship-14363605

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Transfer Talk: Man City hoping to beat Tottenham and Manchester United to Ryan Sessegnon

The Premier League champions-elect are the latest in a long line of suitor for Fulham's wondered

Manchester City are the latest side to be linked with Fulham wonderkid, Ryan Sessegnon.

The 17-year-old bagged his 14th goal of the season as the Whites beat Derby County 2-1 to leapfrog them into fourth place in the Championship, making it 13 unbeaten for Slavisa Jokanovic's team.

Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, Real Madrid and PSG have all been linked in the past to Sessegnon, who has been at Fulham since the age of eight, and according to the Mirror , Pep Guardiola's champions-elect are the latest to throw their hat into the ring.

Sessegnon signed his first pro deal in the summer and Fulham hope they'll be able to keep onto him if they get promoted to the Premier League, although the report states that they're bracing themselves for offers whether they go up or not.

There's been talk about the wonderkid being selected for the England squad for the 2018 World Cup, and after the 2-1 victory Jokanovic gave him his biggest backing yet , saying he should definitely be in Gareth Southgate's side that flies to Russia.



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/transfer-talk-man-city-hoping-14365280

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3 things we've learned about Fulham's Tom Cairney so far this season

Fulham are well on course to secure a second consecutive play-off finish, with Slavisa Jokanovic's side's form since the turn of the year propelling the Cottagers into the thick of the action.

The Serb had been questioned earlier in the season following a lacklustre start, but with points in the bag and a favourable run at the end of the season, it appears that the West London will certainly be one of four teams challenging for a place in the Premier League.

Excellent in front of goal last year, Fulham are beginning to flex their muscles in front of goal again, despite the fact central midfielder Tom Cairney has been unable to exhibit the same form that saw him smash a combined total of over twenty goals and assists last year.

Here is what we have learned about the player so far...

He's not the world beater we once thought

Cairney was excellent last season, and certainly looked like he could compete for a top half Premier League side to a consistently high standard following a series of inspirational performances in the middle of the park at Craven Cottage.

However the player is light years away from the form in which he wowed fans and pundits alike, registering less than five goals and assists this term in a campaign which has admittedly been disrupted by injury.

However with over twenty league appearances to his name this season, the player is worth a third of the value he was at this stage a year ago.

He can play well without being prolific

Whether last year was a fluke or whether this season has faltered due to injuries, Cairney has proven that he can perform to a consistently high standard without registering the stats that make the headlines.

Yes his goals and assists totals are a fraction of last season, but there can be no denying that Cairney has excelled in the middle of the park once again, and his influence upon the Cottagers run for the top six must be heralded as a fine achievement.

Pulling all the strings from a deeper lying role, Cairney hasn't been afforded the same freedoms he enjoyed last season, but will still put the campaign down as a personal success, although he will openly admit that he needs to find the back of the net more often in the closing stages of the season.

His passing is up there with the best

When Tom Cairney has the ball at his feet, nine times out of ten the player will maintain possession.

This is no figure of speech, but a fact, with the Scottish international boasting a pass completion percentage of 91.4%, an impressive figure and one that has formed the basis of Fulham's exceptional goal scoring form again this year.

Only league leaders Wolves had scored more at the time of writing, and although Cairney may not be the man on the scoresheet, it is his passes which are unlocking defences and leading to goals for the likes of Ryan Sessegnon.

Cairney has been excellent again this year, but in a very different way from his exploits last term.




https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-things-weve-learned-about-fulhams-tom-cairney-so-far-this-season/

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Aleksandar Mitrovic Scores Again For Fulham In 2-1 Win

Aleksandar Mitrovic is helping Fulham climb the Championship table, and he scored the first Fulham goal yesterday in their 2-1 away win at Derby County.

Mitro scored his third goal in as many games for Fulham yesterday.

That came after just 10 minutes and a second goal from Sessegnon after 22 minutes put the Cottagers in control.

A consolation goal was scored after 68 minutes by Huddlestone, but Fulham ran out 2-1 winners.

That win takes Fulham to 62 points and 4th place and they go above Derby with the win.

There were also five Championship games canceled because of the inclement weather.

Aleksandar Mitrovic – scored after just 10 minutes

Since Mitro joined Fulham they have played six games – won four and drew two – for a points total of 14 – not too bad at all.

They are certainly the in-form side in the Championship at the moment.

Sunderland drew 1-1 at Millwall yesterday, but they are stuck at the bottom of the league with only 28 points from their 35 games.

With 11 games still to play, Sunderland are 4 points from safety – behind 4th bottom Barnsley,

But they also have a poor goal difference of -26 and are more like 5 points from safety.



http://www.nufcblog.com/2018/03/04/mitrovic-scores-again-for-fulham-in-2-1-win/

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Former Wolves man Chris Iwelumo heaps praise on Fulham's defensive prowess after Derby win

The former Scottish international praised the side's defence after victory at Derby made it 13 games unbeaten for Fulham

Chris Iwelumo has heaped praise on Fulham's defensive prowess after another victory made it 13 games unbeaten for Fulham.

Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ryan Sessegnon both hit the back of the net in the first half against Derby County to ensure the side won 2-1 at Pride Park - a result that saw them leapfrog their opponents into fourth place in the Championship.

It's been a run full of goals and individual performances, but Football on 5 pundit Iwelumo singled out Fulham's defence as one of the reasons for this run, saying that the strength the back five have shown allows the more attacking players to express themselves.

Speaking on Football on 5, he said: "Managers talk about a defensive foundation as a building block to go on and achieve success and Tim Ream has been an ever-present.

"33 appearances out of 35, and he brings goals as well which is great, leads by example.

"They brought in Matt Targett in January too and that defensive unit has created a certain balance there and he allows the offensive players to do their game.

"Mitrovic is showing match sharpness, he's getting the games and the minutes and that match sharpness is coming along.

"We spoke about Ryan, but left foot, right foot, he takes it on and always hits the target and it's another fantastic finish.

"Because they're so good defensively, it allows the forward players to go and express themselves."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/former-wolves-man-chris-iwelumo-14365331

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Games of interest for mid-week 06-07/03
After beating teams above us in the last two games, we've now got ourselves into 4th place

Next we've a mid-week home game against Sheffield Utd who, until recently have spent most of the season in the top six. We've now won 10 games of the last 13 so while this could be another tricky game for Slaviša and the lads, what odds would you get on Mitrović and Sess scoring again?

other mid-week games of interest include...

TUESDAY 6TH MARCH

Birmingham City v Middlesborough

Cardiff v Barnsley

Preston NE v Bristol City

QPR v Derby

Sunderland v Aston Villa

WEDNESDAY 7TH MARCH

Leeds v Wolves



COYWs




http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=107

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McDonald salutes Fulham's 'strength in depth'
by Dan on March 4, 2018

Kevin McDonald believes Fulham's strength in depth could prove priceless as their Championship promotion bid comes down to the wire.

The Scottish midfielder hailed Denis Odoi's fantastic performance at Derby County yesterday after the Belgian defender was a late replacement for the injured Tomas Kalas and feels Slavisa Jokanovic's squad is much stronger after Fulham's additions during the January transfer window. Speaking to FulhamFCTV after the final whistle yesterday, McDonald said:

    The good thing about the team now is we've got such strength in depth and competition for places. We've left a couple of good, good players at home and obviously Kalas has missed out through injury. We brought in Denis Odoi and I thought again he was fantastic. This guy comes in at whatever position, he's going to give 110% and I thought he was really, really good. He was up there for man of the match, defensively. He might go under the radar but I thought he was fantastic.

The 30 year-old also acknowledged the difference Aleksandr Mitrovic has made to Fulham's general play, alongside the Serbian striker's three goals in as many matches.

    He gives us the platform to play. Teams are going to press us and he gives us that option to have that long ball to Aleks. He holds the ball up, he's so strong and he's given us a real different dimension to the team. In the last few games he's been fantastic and I thought again today he bullied the centre halves and he put into a really strong performance.

McDonald revealed he was disappointed that Fulham hadn't wrapped up the win long before half time after scoring twice in the first 22 minutes at Pride Park.

    It was nice. Personally, I went in frustrated at half time because we had so numerous chances and so much space I really thought we should have been in there 4-0 up. I knew that, once this crowd get going and once they get a goal, it's hard place to play. It showed in the second half – we really needed to defend for our lives in the last twenty minutes or so.

The former Sheffield United midfielder knows that the Blades will represent another real test of Fulham's promotion credentials when he renews acquaintances with his former employers at Craven Cottage in midweek.

    It was a hard game when we played there. They throw everything at you, a bit of a gung ho team. I think it will be even harder at home t;his time so we've got to be prepared, rest up and a couple of days training. We'll be ready to go again on Tuesday.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/03/mcdonald-salutes-fulhams-strength-in-depth/

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Balanced, defensively strong and dominant - Fulham are showing all the qualities for promotion

It's been a monumental run to get the side where they are, and after a lacklustre start to the season Fulham are showing all the qualities to be a Premier League side once more

Since Fulham last played Derby back in November, they've lost just twice in the league in 18 games, jumping from 17th in the Championship to 4th.

They've taken 42 points in those games, scoring 40 goals and conceding just the 18.

That is Championship winning form, no matter what way you look at it.

What we've seen from Slavisa Jokanovic's side since that 1-1 draw all those months ago is a better balanced, defensively stronger and more dominant Fulham.

No one is under any illusions that the side did not start the season well, they were conceding last minute goals, losing to poor sides and not being able to find their rhythm and before long it looked like the season was already done and dusted.

But the turnaround that Fulham have showed cannot be understated.

People talk about great escapes, and notably the Cottagers' escape from the drop in the Premier League, as magical and will go on at lengths about it, but so far no one really seems to be praising Fulham's recent run like it should be.

They've only dropped points in FIVE of those games and have brushed very good footballing sides like Wolves and Aston Villa to the side.


(Image: Paul Burgman)

If this was Manchester City, the entire world would be marvelling at just how good they are.

But why are they so good at the moment? For me, the answer lies with the balance of the side.

At the beginning of the season, it wasn't quite there - the right looked overloaded while the left didn't have the same impetus it had the season before.

A semi-fit Tom Cairney had too much strain put on him while the forwards were thrust into a league where they had no time to adapt, and were expected to get it right almost immediately.

Now, however, that's all changed.


(Image: Paul Burgman)

Fulham look finely balanced - Matt Targett's introduction at left back, who I think is probably the signing of the season, has addressed the top-heavy reliance on Ryan Fredericks down the right and allowed Ryan Sessegnon to cause havoc up top without having to rely on defensive duties, which is arguably his weakest aspect.

Cairney was given time to address his injury, with Oliver Norwood stepping into the role and doing a very good job, and now the skipper is back he seems to be at his best again.

Certainly, his performance at Pride Park was probably one of the best we've seen all season, with the hosts unable to get near the Scottish international who must have eyes in the back of his head and forcefield around his boots.

And up front, Aleksandar Mitrovic has added brute strength and a dimension Fulham haven't had for a long time - his hold up play on Saturday was what the side have lacked and his third goal in three games demonstrates how important he's become to the team in a short space of side.

The balance is just right at Craven Cottage, and it's tipped Fulham from a side that would be content with Play-offs to one gunning for automatic promotion.

At the back, Tim Ream is enjoying his best season and has become somewhat of a colossus in the heart of defence, while it seems Denis Odoi is the centre half Jokanovic never knew he had, with the Belgian putting in another solid performance with Ream at Derby.

It seems something special is happening by the River Thames - Fulham are showing all the qualities needed to be a Premier League side once again.



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/balanced-defensively-strong-dominant-fulham-14365358

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Fulham's belief is growing, says captain Cairney
by Dan on March 4, 2018

Tom Cairney feels Fulham's belief is growing as they climb up the Championship table – and their push for promotion gathered pace with an important win at Derby County yesterday.

The Whites moved above Gary Rowett's side with a 2-1 win at Pride Park and the Fulham skipper professed himself pleased with the way his team allied some silky first-half football with plenty of fight once Derby had halved their arrears midway through the second period. Cairney told FulhamFCTV after the final whistle:

    I'm delighted with the way with played, particularly in the first half. It was perhaps typical Fulham in a way – we should have been out of sight at half time. When we conceded the goal, to not lose the game or draw the game – I think we would have done that in previous seasons – I think it just shows how far we've come. Winning a place like this, where many of the lads in the dressing have had bad experiences was important. We rolled our sleeves up and, at times, played football they couldn't handle.

    We spoke before the game about the run we're on and how we haven't done enough yet. The side at the minute has got a lot of belief and the strength that we've got on the bench, bringing people on, it's frightening. I think Mitrovic was outstanding again today – it just gives us an extra dimension. The belief's high within the group now.

The Fulham midfielder also sounded an encouraging note on his own injury problems – suggesting he may be reaching his fullest fitness of a season that has been plagued by knee complaints.

    I'm getting there. It's obviously been frustrating. At Christmas time, I was there and then I had that eight game period where I had a break again, but I think I've played four games now – we've won three – and I feel quite strong.




http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/03/fulhams-belief-is-growing-says-captain-cairney/

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'This is our time' – What the Fulham fans are saying after victory at Derby County

Fulham replaced Derby in fourth place in the Championship after the 2-1 victory

Fulham extended their unbeaten Championship run to 13 games at Pride Park Stadium on Saturday.

The Whites, who have won 10 of those games, secured a 2-1 win in the East Midlands to move above Derby County into fourth place.

For the Rams, their promotion hopes took another blow as they remained seven points adrift of second spot – having now played a game more – and have a only a five-point cushion inside the play-off zone.

First-half strikes from Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ryan Sessegnon put the in-form visitors in control. Tom Huddlestone pulled one back after the break.


Fulham celebrate going 2-0 up against Derby County at Pride Park Stadium

Fulham's run of results has seen them climb from 17th to fourth – and put the fans in buoyant mood.




https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/derby-county-fulham-fan-reaction-1294555

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Sheffield United Tickets

Join us this Tuesday as Fulham return to Craven Cottage on 6th March, where they face Sheffield United under the lights (kick-off 7:45pm).

Victory over Derby County this weekend saw Fulham climb up to fourth position, and Slaviša Jokanović's side will be looking to continue their unbeaten run when the Blades visit on Tuesday evening.

Tickets are available to purchase now, starting from £15 for juniors and £25 for adults. What's more, Season Ticket Holders can also purchase two additional tickets for just £5 each at this fixture.

Back the boys and secure your tickets today online, by phone on 0203 871 0810 (opt 1) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.

COYW!



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/march/04/sheffield-united-tickets

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Man United fans urge club to sign Fulham starlet Ryan Sessegnon after latest display

Fulham star Ryan Sessegnon, rated at £22.5m by Transfermarkt, scored his 14th Championship goal of the season in his side's 2-1 win against Derby County at the Pride Park Stadium on Saturday, and Manchester United fans have urged their club to win the race to sign the highly-rated teenager this summer.

The 17-year-old left-sided player, who can play at left-back or as a left winger but has predominantly played in the latter in recent weeks, now has nine league goals in 2018 and continues to impress with his quality and maturity on the pitch.

With the likes of Anthony Martial and Alexis Sanchez already in the squad the Red Devils don't appear to need a left winger, but Jose Mourinho may see him as one for the future or a player that could even play as an attacking left-back for them, although he will face competition for his signature from top flight rivals Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.

Man United supporters were quick to have their say on Sessegnon's latest display and goal via social media, and while one said he "will be one of the world's best in three years", another said "Ryan Sessegnon is 100% the next Gareth Bale".



https://www.footballfancast.com/premier-league/manchester-united/man-united-fans-urge-club-to-sign-fulham-starlet-ryan-sessegnon-after-latest-display

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'Ryan Sessegnon is the left winger England have dreamed of' - fans believe Fulham wonderkid should go to the World Cup

Slavisa Jokanovic thinks the wonderkid should be heading to the World Cup - here's what the fans are thinking

Fans are raving about the possibility of England taking Fulham wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon to the World Cup in Russia.

Rumours have circulated that Gareth Southgate and Steve Holland have been watching Fulham's top scorer this season with an eye of taking him to Russia with England as he goes from strength to strength with the Craven Cottage outfit.

His 14th goal of the season against Derby County will further aid his cause, while club manager Slavisa Jokanovic is a big advocate of sending Sessegnon to the World Cup, not just to get experience, but to play too.

The wonderkid won the U19 European Championships with England and Jokanovic believes there's no reason for him not be called up - a sentiment a lot of fans seem to agree with.




https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ryan-sessegnon-left-winger-england-14365530

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Man Utd & Tottenham In Battle To Sign £50m Real Madrid Target

The transfer window is closed but managers are working hard on their plans for the summer so we'll bring you all the latest gossip from around the globe. Today, the race for Ryan Sessegnon hots-up....

Manchester United and Tottenham will face fresh competition from Manchester City for the signing of Fulham sensation Ryan Sessegnon this summer, according to the Mirror.

Sessegnon has emerged as one of the hottest prospects outside of the Premier League after coming through the youth ranks at Fulham since joining the club as a youngster.

The 17-year-old – who can play anywhere down the left flank – has been in superb form for the Cottagers this season and he scored his 14th goal in 35 appearances during the 2-1 win over Derby County yesterday.

Sessegnon's potential has attracted plenty of interest with Manchester United and Tottenham among the clubs strongly linked with the teenager over the past 18 months.

The Mirror claim that United and Spurs have been leading the chase while European giants Real Madrid have also been keeping a close eye on the England U19 international ahead of the summer.

Jose Mourinho needs to find a new left-back as Ashley Young has been filling-in this season with Luke Shaw failing to establish himself and Sessegnon could be the ideal long-term replacement.

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is also being tipped to try and sign the youngster amid on-going speculation linking Danny Rose with a move away from north London this summer.

However, it looks as though United and Tottenham will face a real battle to sign Sessegnon as the Mirror claim that City have now entered the race for his signature.

Fulham know they will find it practically impossible to keep hold of the player beyond the summer even if they gain promotion to the Premier League and TeamTalk suggest they value Sessegnon at around £50m.

We'll have to wait and see if any club will be prepared to match that valuation but Sessegnon will be a hugely exciting signing for whoever ends up winning the race for his signature this summer.



http://football-talk.co.uk/135391/man-utd-tottenham-in-battle-to-sign-50m-real-madrid-target/

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3 things we've learned about Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon so far this season

Fulham cemented their top six status with a phenomenal 2-1 win at promotion rivals Derby on Saturday afternoon, with Slavisa Jokanovic's side taking a deserved three points back to West London.

The Serb's side have been in electric form as of later, and fans will begin to believe that the club could be close to ending their Premier League exile following four years away from the English top flight.

The Cottagers have certainly been aided in the past two years by the emergence of Ryan Sessegnon, with the 17-year-old winger proving a revelation since breaking into the team on a regular basis last year.

Here is what we have learnt about the player so far this season...

His best position is on the wing

Sessegnon has traditionally been considered a left back by his boss, with the player deployed in the position for the opening nineteen games of the campaign.

However, since Jokanovic decided that the player's strengths lie in an attacking role, Sessegnon has proven that he must be considered one of the most exciting talents in not only the English game, but European football as a whole.

A remarkable twelve goals and two assists since being moved forward has proven Jokanovic's decision to be inspired, and the player's value has skyrocketed since his rich vein of form began to take hold.

The 17-year-old is a winger, and his full back days are certainly behind him whilst he remains a Fulham player.

He's the best youngster in English football

A bold claim given the talent on offer in the Premier League, but with youngsters struggling for opportunities in the top flight, Sessegnon has thrived during his exposure to regular first team football, and looks destined to become one of European football's top stars.

His aforementioned twelve goals in only fifteen appearances since taking on a more advanced role only serves to highlight his talents, and scouts watching the player will scarcely believe that the London-born star remains unable to buy himself a beer at the bar.

Sessegnon is already the best player in the Championship at seventeen; it is scary to imagine what he will achieve in the next five years in the right environment.

He won't be at Fulham next season if they aren't promoted

There is no way the Premier League's top clubs will allow Sessegnon to remain a Fulham player beyond the end of the season if the Cottagers fail to secure promotion.

His value has already soared since his goalscoring exploits have come into the fray, and his price tag will only increase as the player develops and continues his miraculous rise to stardom.

Fulham would not be laughed out of the room for demanding a fee in excess of £40 million for the youngster in the summer, and the likes of the Manchester clubs and the London-based big boys are likely to find the cash to fund a bid for the teenager.

Perhaps another season at Fulham would be best for the player's growth given the risk of stagnating on a Premier League bench, but with Sessegnon good enough to start at any club in the top flight except perhaps Manchester City, then regular top flight action will certainly elevate his talents to a new level.




https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-things-weve-learned-about-fulhams-ryan-sessegnon-so-far-this-season/

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Fulham's Kevin McDonald describes stunning last-ditch tackle against Derby as 'part and parcel' of football

The tackle against Cameron Jerome ensured Fulham left with three points, but the vice captain felt he was just doing his job

Kevin McDonald described his last-ditch tackle against Derby County that ensured all three points went back to Craven Cottage as just 'doing his job'.

The vice-captain's brilliant tackle denied Cameron Jerome in the dying minutes of the game - a tackle that ensured Fulham leapfrogged their opponents into 4th place having come away with a hard-fought victory at Pride Park that made it 13 games ubeaten.

Marcus Bettinelli was also on hand to claw away a last-second attempt, but McDonald was modest about the brilliance of the tackle, saying it's just part and parcel of football.

He said: "Fredericks himself said he switched off and didn't realise the guy was behind, I think everyone thought it was going out but I knew that Jerome had that pace to get there.

Kevin McDonald described his last-ditch tackle against Derby County that ensured all three points went back to Craven Cottage as just 'doing his job'.

The vice-captain's brilliant tackle denied Cameron Jerome in the dying minutes of the game - a tackle that ensured Fulham leapfrogged their opponents into 4th place having come away with a hard-fought victory at Pride Park that made it 13 games ubeaten.

Marcus Bettinelli was also on hand to claw away a last-second attempt, but McDonald was modest about the brilliance of the tackle, saying it's just part and parcel of football.

He said: "Fredericks himself said he switched off and didn't realise the guy was behind, I think everyone thought it was going out but I knew that Jerome had that pace to get there.

"It's been massive, and we still have two left from the so-called run of six that we had," he added.

"We've taken ten points from the four games, that;s a great return, there's no denying it, it's been a great run but it doesn't stop there, we have to go again Tuesday and win, it's as simple as that.

"You feel like you're going to get a bit of a rest-bite but you don't and we go Tuesday which will be a really hard game and we've got to get three points again.

"I think it is [season defining], but also the part of it before where we played the so-called lower down teams, we picked up some good points there.


(Image: Mark Kerton/PA Wire)

"There were some tough games and we picked up good points and now we've just continued on that run, we're on that run now and hopefully it doesn't stop anytime soon."

Fulham are no strangers to how difficult going to Pride Park can be - last season the Rams beat them 4-2 in a run where the Cottagers looked unstoppable.

But this time around, McDonald thinks Fulham silenced the Derby crowd and surprised their opponents with the fluid football those that watch the side week-in, week-out enjoy on a regular basis.

He said: "I think it's always one of the best atmospheres in the Championship is coming here, especially when they're ahead, it's tough to play against.


(Image: Paul Burgman)

"But we silenced the crowd a bit and they've been on a bit of a bad run recently so we managed to silence them to a certain extent.

"We put on some fantastic football in the first half, there's no denying it, first touch football throughout the team and I think they were a bit surprised at how fluid we played.

"Second half they changed a bit, it was really hard but it was such a bonus going in at half time at 2-0."



https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulhams-kevin-mcdonald-describe-stunning-14365627

[WhiteJC]

100 not out: Ryan Fredericks' Fulham century
by Dan on March 4, 2018

There isn't a finer sight at Craven Cottage these days then seeing Ryan Fredricks flying at full speed down the Fulham right. The plaudits might go to Ryan Sessegnon for his precocious talent and peerless performances on the other flank, whilst the creativity of Tom Cairney and – most recently – the goalscoring prowess of Aleksandr Mitrovic have garnered plenty of praise, but Fredericks' own importance to Slavisa Jokanovic's push for the Premier League can't be understated. His surges deep into opposition territory show just how wide an array of weapons the Whites possess and it was fitting that yesterday's vital victory at fellow promotion candidates Derby County was the right back's hundredth appearance in a Fulham shirt.

Fredericks will be the first to admit that he's come on leaps and bounds since arriving at Craven Cottage after the briefest of spells at Bristol City in August 2015. The full back, a regional sprinting champion in his school days, showed plenty of early promise – especially in a scintillating first Fulham start when QPR were hit for four on an electric Friday night under the Cottage lights – but he struggled to maintain those blistering periods of attacking brilliance for a full ninety minutes in his first season down by the River Thames. The instillation of Slavisa Jokanovic as Kit Symons' permanent successor and the Serbian's decision to give Fredericks the freedom to gallop down the right flank proved a real turning point – as the former Tottenham defender saw off the challenge of Jazz Richards to firmly establish himself as Fulham's first choice right back.

Fredericks' fitness and stamina have greatly improved since Marco Ceserani's appointment as the first team's senior sports scientist and his pace has become even more pivotal to Fulham's prospects. His speed is vital in helping him make those crucial recovery runs to bail out a team-mate or tracking the runs of a particularly tricky winger. In the past, Fredericks' defensive capabilities have been hit and miss against some of the division's best wide man, but he's a much improved defender these days – and I felt his superb timing in the tackle set the down perfectly in the recent win over league leaders Wolves. Of course, it is in the final third where his speed has proven most effective and, when an opposition is already struggling to contain the fluid movement of Jokanovic's chosen front three, Fredericks' overlapping runs from right back can prove devastating.

He has gradually become more productive at that end of the pitch too. Where sometimes his crossing could previously have been described as erratic, the full back's composure doesn't desert him too often when he gets into the prime delivery positions these days. The two crosses he put in to break the back of Burton's defensively-minded system in December were magnificent and there are hardly an outlier. The full-back has six assists to his name this year and could very easily have grabbed a goal too, were it not for the dubious goals panel reclassifying his long-range strike at Loftus Road as an own goal. As Alan wrote the other week, there's little doubt now that Fredericks' fierce desire to win has made him a firm favourite with the Fulham fans too.

The turn of the year brought plenty of speculation linking Fredericks with a move to the Premier League, but like the rest of Jokanovic's key performers, the 24 year-old flier stayed put. It is no surprise that the likes of West Ham, Southampton and Swansea City covet the Whites' right back, given that he embodies what modern managers want from a marauding full back. Fredericks' remains fully focused on trying to earn a route back to the top flight through promotion with the Whites, although after such an impressive first century of appearances the Fulham faithful will hope his race down the Cottage right flank is far from run.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/03/100-not-out-ryan-fredericks-fulham-century/

[WhiteJC]

 
Cardiff City's Premier League drive: What Bluebirds must do this week to hold off sudden Fulham threat and stay in top two

The Bluebirds host Barnsley and Birmingham at Cardiff City Stadium this week as their promotion push goes on

No game for Cardiff City at the weekend means a chance to re-evaluate their season ahead of one final push for the Premier League.

Because, although many will be disappointed the Bluebirds' clash at Brentford was postponed due to snow, now is the perfect time for Neil Warnock to take stock with 12 games to go.

Cardiff host Barnsley and Birmingham this week in must-win home matches.

How things stand and this week's fixtures

The rising force of the Championship, Fulham, are becoming increasingly unstoppable. Their 2-1 victory over Derby on Saturday was a real statement of how far they're progressing under the excellent Slavisa Jokanovic.

From nowhere, they've gate-crashed the automatic promotion party, leaving the likes of Leeds, Derby and Bristol City stunned. This most recent win puts the Cottagers five points off Cardiff having played one game more.

But the Bluebirds are in good form too, don't forget. They were disappointed to see their game at Brentford called off, but rivals Wolves and Aston Villa also saw their matches postponed.

While those three were matchless, Lee Johnson's Bristol got back to winning ways at the weekend with a professional 4-0 home triumph over Sheffield Wednesday to put down a statement of their own.

It is Fulham, though, who Neil Warnock's men will suddenly be keeping an eye out for.

That is why Cardiff have to capitalise upon two winnable home games this week, against Barnsley and Birmingham, and keep the Cottagers at bay.

There's a full schedule this midweek, with Fulham hosting Sheffield United, Villa travelling to Sunderland and Derby going to Queens Park Rangers on Tuesday night.

Then Wolves play Leeds at Elland Road on Wednesday — but their gap could be down to just three points if the Bluebirds see off Barnsley.

As the Bluebirds host Birmingham on Saturday, Fulham head to Preston - and at tea-time there is a huge clash between Aston Villa and Wolves.

Something will have to give in that one.

Wolves' tough run

Nathan Blake has reiterated his belief that Wolves can be hauled in — and that top spot is up for grabs.

Fulham will fancy their chances of claiming it on form, but the Bluebirds are ready to pounce given that Wolves have tricky away fixtures against Leeds and Villa in the next week. It's possible that Nuno's side might only pick up a point or two from those games.

If Cardiff can hold up their end of the bargain, they could lie within three or four points of Wolves this time next week.

So what does Warnock need to do to ensure the Bluebirds hold off the sudden challenge from Fulham and avoid complacency against struggling Barnsley and Birmingham?

1. Keep changing things up

A hallmark of Warnock's management this season has been his ability to keep opponents guessing.

Whether it's picking a surprise team — as he did against Bristol City — or switching systems mid-match (against Sunderland and Ipswich), the veteran boss isn't left wondering. He often sets his team out in shape tailor-made for the opposition, with man-markers and funky formations. It usually works too.

So while it might be tempting for Warnock to keep confidence with a set XI — as was his tendency early in the campaign — recent results have shown that tinkering pays dividends.

It might mean resting a regular starter like Joe Bennett, Bruno Manga or even Joe Ralls at times.

But with fixtures beginning to pile up following the Brentford postponement, Cardiff are going to need fresh legs — even in the eminently winnable games against the Tykes and the Blues this week.

2. Feed the in-form Kenneth Zohore

One man who should be retained in this week, however, is Kenneth Zohore such has been his upturn in form.

That Warnock trait of chopping and changing saw the Dane relegated to the bench against Bristol City but the striker came on in the second half and scored the decisive goal.

Instinct might persuade Warnock to give Zohore a run up front instead of Gary Madine for the next few games. Who can forget the 24-year-old's purple patch at the back end of last season? He just seems in the mood to replicate it; two goals in his last two games is ominous form.

Warnock may even gamble and play Madine and Zohore together in one of these games. A home match against one of the league's lesser lights seems the perfect time to rekindle that partnership we saw briefly at Ipswich.

Either way, Zohore must be given a run and a chance to test those shooting boots.

3. Get Cardiff City Stadium bouncing

A tall order given these next two matches are hardly ones to get pulses racing, but a must if Cardiff are to reach top gear.

It's a well-worn cliché that the Bluebirds play better in the bigger games — but it's based on fact. Against Leeds, Aston Villa and Bristol City larger, noisier crowds have been rewarded with big Cardiff performances.

The discussions about why the club can no longer attract regular gates in excess of 20,000 will continue. But even if only 15,000 turn up for the Barnsley game, they can still generate an atmosphere to put fire in players' bellies.

The attitude and endeavour of Warnock's team means they deserve to be heartily backed.

Those who do turn out for these two unglamourous yet vitally important games need to sing their socks off.

Automatic promotion may depend on it.

4. Be vigilant at set pieces

On the pitch, the potential elongated absence of Sean Morrison — doubtful following a groin injury sustained against Ipswich — may be harshly felt.

Sol Bamba is a reliable presence when defending set-pieces, but Matthew Connolly hasn't had much football this season and may be vulnerable if he plays alongside the Ivorian.

The return of Morrison cannot come soon enough, given his understanding with Bamba and the performances of Bruno Manga, who almost seems more comfortable as a right-back these days. Morrison is adept both in defending and attacking dead ball situations.

Barnsley, in particular, are likely to focus on set-pieces as part of a smash-and-grab blueprint. Cardiff have come unstuck in the past against such plans, but you'd imagine Warnock would ensure maximum vigilance from his troops.

Simply put, complacency is the Bluebirds' enemy this week and must be guarded against.

Our predictions and how the table could look come Saturday night...

THE TOP SIX AS THINGS STAND
1. Wolves — 73 points (played 34)

2. Cardiff — 67 pts (p34)

3. Aston Villa — 63 pts (p34)

4. Fulham — 62 pts (p35)

5. Derby — 60 pts (p35)

6. Bristol City — 57 pts (p35)

Midweek predictions

Cardiff v Barnsley: Home win

Fulham v Sheff Utd: Home win

Preston v Bristol City: Home win

QPR v Derby: Draw

Sunderland v Villa: Away win

Leeds v Wolves: Draw

Weekend predictions

Burton v Bristol City: Away win

Cardiff v Birmingham: Home win

Preston v Fulham: Draw

Aston Villa v Wolves: Draw

Nottm Forest v Derby: Home win
HOW THE TOP SIX MAY LOOK NEXT WEEK
1. Wolves — 75 points (played 36)

2. Cardiff — 73 pts (p36)

3. Aston Villa — 67 pts (p36)

4. Fulham — 66 pts (p37)

5. Derby — 61 pts (p37)

6. Bristol City — 60 pts (p37)



https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cardiff-citys-premier-league-drive-14365964

[WhiteJC]

'I was just doing my job,' says Fulham hero McDonald
by Dan on March 4, 2018

Kevin McDonald made light of his late match-winning tackle on Matej Vydra after Fulham's 2-1 win at Derby County yesterday – claiming he 'was only doing my job'.

The Scottish midfielder appeared from nowhere to get a toe to Cameron Jerome's cross and prevent Vydra completing the simplest of tap-ins to equalise for Derby with Fulham goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli out of his goal. McDonald, who had another outstanding game anchoring the Whites midfield, told GetWestLondon's Ryan O'Donovan that his intervention was 'part and parcel of football':

    [Ryan] Fredericks himself said he switched off and didn't realise the guy was behind, I think everyone thought it was going out but I knew that Jerome had that pace to get there. As he went to get it I thought 'they're in here if he cuts this back' and I just made a last ditch challenge, it's one of those things that's part and parcel of football, that's my job at the end of the day and I'm just glad we got the three points.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/03/i-was-just-doing-my-job-says-fulham-hero-mcdonald/