Friday Fulham Stuff (27/04/18)...

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How Newcastle outcast Mitrovic morphed into Fulham's star striker in promotion push

The Serbian endured a difficult time under Rafa Benitez but he has been thriving under his compatriot Slavisa Jokanovic at Craven Cottage

Twelve months ago, Aleksandar Mitrovic was a bit-part player in Newcastle United's promotion, but now the Serbian striker is now spearheading Fulham's late, great push for a return to the top flight.

Since dropping back down to the Championship in January on loan, the striker has looked like a new man. He's been crucial to helping the Cottagers to extend their unbeaten run to 22 games and they are guaranteed at least a play-off position with two games to go.

After scoring just four goals in the Championship last season, Mitrovic has netted 11 times in 15 appearances for Fulham. But what has changed for the enigmatic 23-year-old?

It's no secret that Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez and Mitrovic didn't get on during his time at Newcastle, with the Magpies boss preferring the likes of Dwight Gayle, Joselu and Ayoze Perez in attack. Before joining Slavisa Jokanovic's side on loan, Mitrovic had made just six substitute appearances in the Premier League this season.

Mitrovic was sent off twice in his debut season at Newcastle and his unpredictable temperament drew criticism in the past, with Benitez unhappy with the forward after a 6-0 win against Preston last season when he was booked for his celebration after scoring his second goal of the game. He was then involved in an altercation with Matt Ritchie about who was going to take a penalty when Mitrovic was on for a hat-trick.



http://www.goal.com/en/news/how-newcastle-outcast-mitrovic-morphed-into-fulhams-star-striker-/gqieys8fqli315ym1iq1d5j6i

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Manchester United have work cut out to convince youngster to join club

Ryan Sessegnon is getting a lot of attention since last season with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur now keen to take him away from Fulham on a permanent basis.

The Sun are stating that, as rehashed by the Times, that Spurs are the 17-year-old's first choice due to wanting to remain in London.

It is also being noted by the same media outlets that United are doing their utmost to persuade the youngster to move up north to Manchester.

Sessegnon is attracting interest from a number of top clubs after the season he's had, and it wouldn't surprise us one bit if all these clubs have to battle it out until the end to be the first to secure his signature.

After scoring 15 and assisting six in 44 league appearances this term, Sessgnon became the first Championship player to be nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award this season. A phenomenal achievement.

He is renowned for blistering pace and an eye for goal, as well as being versatile enough to play at full-back and on the wing. Funnily enough, that may remind United fans of Antonio Valencia or Ashley Young with both playing defensive positions despite not being recognised full-backs, but I can assure you Sessegnon initially made his name as a defender, albeit an attack-minded one.

United seemingly have their work cut out for them if they're to convince the youngster to move up north.



http://strettynews.com/manchester-united-have-work-cut-out-to-convince-youngster-to-join-club/

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'It's one I could see happening' – Speedy Arsenal ace to Fulham: The verdict



Reiss Nelson is a player knocking on the door of the first-team at Arsenal.

However, with the managerial situation at the Gunners looking uncertain for next season, there is every chance the speedy 18-year-old will be shipped out on loan to the Sky Bet Championship.

One team that could be in the Championship next season, or even in the top-flight is Fulham.

Craven Cottage could be a potential destination for Nelson next season, as Arsenal seek to give Nelson a platform to exhibit his qualities.

Would Fulham and Reiss Nelson be a good fit? Can you see Jokanovic going for a player like Nelson?

We discuss....

Gary Hutchinson

If he's going anywhere, I'd suggest somewhere in London to minimise the upheaval.

He's not proven anywhere and for him to turn up in the Championship expecting game time is a big pressure on the receiving club, especially if he wilts under the bright lights.

The boy has a lot to prove and he does need football somewhere.

Jay Williams

This is entirely dependant on whether Fulham go up or stay down this season.

If Fulham go up, they should probably be looking at more experienced players to help them stay in the Premier League but if they stay down, Nelson would be a great signing.

He may only be 18 but he is versatile and he could thrive in a side which have shown that they are not afraid to play teenagers.

Ben Barkworth

The right-wing position is one of Fulham's weaker areas with multiple players failing to stake a claim on the position.

Slavisa Jokanovic has shown with Ryan Sessegnon that he is willing to give key roles to young players, so this could be the ideal team for Nelson to go on loan to in order to develop.

Fulham's preference to overload down the left flank means he would be left in 1v1s after a quick switch of play, so it could be the ideal role for him.

George Dagless

He'd surely fit the environment.

Fulham have been going along very nicely this season but that does not mean they cannot rest on their laurels in the summer.

Certainly, there's a good chance he'd be a hit at the Cottage and so it's one I could see happening.

Chris Gallagher

Even if they are promoted, he would be a good signing.

Nelson would suit the style of play that Jokanovic demands and could solve the right-midfield position for the Cottagers.

The exciting youngster needs a run of games to prove his ability and Fulham could be ideal for that.

Alfie Burns

If Fulham are a Premier League outfit I can't see them looking to sign Nelson, but if they remain in the Championship, he could well be someone they take a look at.

For Nelson, working for a manager like Slavisa Jokanovic would be huge, as I'm sure the Fulham boss would develop his game.

Having come through Arsenal's ranks, I'm sure Nelson's style would suit the way Fulham play.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/its-one-i-could-see-happening-speedy-arsenal-ace-to-fulham-the-verdict/

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Championship promotion race set for final-day drama?

Cardiff City followers, alongside Fulham fans, are set to experience that excruciatingly painful tension that only final-day drama can produce. Both sides have been embroiled in a tussle for the second automatic spot since the year's turn. Their battle will reach its conclusion a week Saturday.

The Bluebirds' defeat to play-off chasing Derby County on Tuesday night all-but confirmed that a narrative that has perpetuated the league for half a season will seek its resolution in the final game-week.

Calum Paterson's clinical volley had gifted Cardiff a lead at Pride Park - his reaction seemed to be one of surprise, as though he thought himself incapable of such a crisp finish. In many ways, it characterised his season in Wales; bought as a right-back, the Scot has progressed into a goal-scoring central midfielder and is amongst the top scorers, despite returning from injury in October - bemusing.

At this stage, the sensible money would have been on Neil Warnock's side closing out the game, effectively placing one foot in the Premier League. They would've gone four points clear of chasing Fulham with two games remaining, yet Garry Rowett's men clawed back victory, exploiting uncharacteristically shoddy defending from City.

Just as Cardiff fans rejoiced at Brentford's late equaliser at Craven Cottage two weeks ago, the Fulham faithful will have met Derby's fight-back with glee. And hope. Suddenly, Slavisa Jokanovic's Fulham has a tangible chance of automatic promotion.

Spearheaded by the brute potency from Aleksandar Mitrovic, weaved through the delicacy of Tom Cairney and powered by the pace of in-demand Ryan Sessegnon, Fulham have heaved themselves from outside of the top-six before Christmas into contention for automatic promotion.


Fulham have embarked on an incredible run

Fulham's resurgence has pitted two polar footballing philosophies against each other, with the purist, slick style employed at Craven Cottage clashing quite drastically with the direct, confrontational ideology espoused by Warnock.

Indeed, this race is not yet completely certain to go to the final day. But anything else would be a huge surprise. For automatic promotion to be concluded this weekend, Fulham would have to lose to already-relegated Sunderland, with Cardiff winning at Hull.

Chris Coleman's Sunderland have been meek at best this season, and there is little expectation that they will raise their game from the cowering and insipid crevice they currently occupy.

There are two scenarios that could set up the final day drama:

Cardiff lose at Hull and Fulham beat Sunderland; this would see Fulham enter the last game week in second, two points ahead of the Bluebirds. A draw would then be enough for Fulham, with their superior goal-difference meaning the Welsh side would have to inflict a record-breaking goal-scoring annihilation on Reading, their opponents.

Cardiff beat Hull, with Fulham's defeat of Sunderland expected; this would see Cardiff remain second, still, one point ahead of Fulham, needing a victory to definitely secure promotion. Fulham faces Birmingham, whose safety has been effectively sealed, and anything but a win would be another shock.

Permutations are a vital ingredient in the magic of final-day drama and every Cardiff and Fulham fan will be calculating their outcomes almost routinely until now and the final whistle on 7th May.

If this were up to the general public, Fulham's aesthetically-pleasing football will be witnessed in England's top flight next season, with many warming to the attractive and attacking direction deployed. Warnock, for many, is the arch-villain and though he often provides amusing anecdotes and unconventionally direct quotes, few outside Cardiff want his agricultural style in the Premier League.

It's not up to the public, though; after all, they can often make the wrong decision. Brexit.

With the Premier League relegation battle no longer a fight and more of a hopeless cesspool of dead dreams, the race for promotion is the most intriguing story-line. Get ready for some riveting drama, folks.



http://www.itsroundanditswhite.co.uk/articles/championship-promotion-race-set-final-day-drama

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Chris Coleman on the latest with Ellis Short ahead of Fulham


DIFFICULT TIMES: Sunderland boss Chris Coleman

SUNDERLAND'S relegation from the Championship might have been confirmed, but Chris Coleman is still waiting to hear from Black Cats owner Ellis Short about his plans for the club.

Almost a week has passed since the Wearsiders were condemned to life in League One on the back of a 2-1 home defeat to Burton Albion, but Coleman has been unable to get any clarity about the direction the club will be heading in over the summer.

Martin Bain this week insisted that Short would not be putting Sunderland into administration this summer, but a host of questions about the club's off-field position remain unanswered.

Talks with a number of potential investors remain ongoing – some of whom have signed non-disclosure agreements – but no one is believed to be close to be tabling a formal offer.

Short continues to plug monthly shortfalls to keep the club afloat, but the American financier has provided no indication of how much money will be available to fund a summer rebuilding job, even though the end of the season is now just two games away.

Coleman said: "There's still been no conversation with Ellis. There's nothing I can do about that. My conversations are with Martin, who has been here for a bit longer than me, and this season has almost been the front man, taking all the criticism.

"He works his socks off. There's not a lot he can do about it. He's got a menu and he has to stick with that and get on with it.

"The unthinkable has happened. The club needs a lot of change, which is obvious. Because of the uncertainty, it's open season or criticism. A club like Sunderland, almost floating aimlessly in the dark. We can't start working yet because we haven't got anyone telling us what we can or can't do."

Coleman admits he has had an extremely difficult week in the wake of Saturday's relegation, but last night's Supporters' Association Player of the Year awards helped lift spirits.

The club felt it was important to honour a commitment to the fans and attend the ceremony, which saw John O'Shea pick up the Player of the Year award, and Coleman was humbled by the response of the supporters that turned up despite this season's abject failure.

He said: "The supporters last night were – I don't have the words to describe how good they were with us. We didn't deserve anything from them.

"I said I wanted to come and manage Sunderland. That's where I am. It hasn't gone the way we wanted it to go, but I'm still here and I'd still like the opportunity to put things right here.

"That won't be my decision, it will be someone else's, who I don't know. I think it's a great football club. It's in a position where it's very tough and it's attached with a lot of negativity. We've not been able to stop the slide, but it's still a great football club.



http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/football/sunderland/16186138.Coleman_on_Ellis_Short__his_future_as_Sunderland_boss_and_plans_for_Fulham/

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The things Cardiff City need to edge out Fulham in Premier League race: Vocal support, bottle and a slice of luck

Bluebirds fan columnist Scott Johnson argues that Neil Warnock's side have the bottle to hold their nerve in final promotion run-in

Having lost three games in close succession, the tag 'bottlers' has been aimed towards Cardiff City in some quarters.

There are two main scenarios where people use this emotive term. Some do it to get a reaction, aiming it at rivals in an attempt to chip away at their already fragile confidence.

There other scenario is when fans aim it at their own team because they're hurting.

They're emotionally invested and success is close to hand, but in real danger of being snatched away right at the last minute. Football can be cruel and you usually reap what you sow, but that does not make it any less painful when it all goes pear-shaped.

If Cardiff have proved nothing else this season it is that they have plenty of bottle. It is bottle that has them punching above their weight in amongst big spenders and salvaging so many points so late in games.

What they have done is lost three very tough games against three very good sides. In isolation and all honesty, they were all games that Cardiff were likely to lose. It's just unfortunate that they were all scheduled so close together at the tail end of a tough season.

It's unfortunate that the Derby game was called off when Cardiff were flying and Derby were down to the bare bones. It was unfortunate that Cardiff contrived to miss two injury time penalties against Wolves too, but these things happen. They will either make success all the more sweeter or forever be held up as pivotal turning points if things don't work out.

Team spirit and courage are this side's key strengths and Neil Warnock will set about firing his side up for another tricky trip to Hull on Saturday. Fate remains in their hands, even if momentum is not.

These games have highlighted a few failings.

Whether or not you rate Gary Madine is a moot point, what is apparent is that he does not fit the way Cardiff play. It is hard to tell whether Madine is failing Cardiff or Cardiff are failing Madine. It's probably somewhere in the middle.

It cannot be expected that Madine will slot in to the side and fill Kenneth Zohore's shoes. They are very different players with very different needs. Zohore wants the ball into space or at his feet, driving at defenders. Madine wants it on his chest with his back to goal, ready to lay the ball off and look for the return.

If you make Madine work the channels or Zohore win headers, you are playing to their weaknesses rather than their strengths. Madine needs someone like Liam Feeney making crosses, instead he's feeding off scraps and Cardiff are making him into something of a misfit. Either they bend to his needs or he probably shouldn't be playing.

There is a lack of quality options out wide too. The alternatives to Junior Hoilett and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing are waifs and strays that were acquired on loan because they were out of favour at their parent clubs.

Jamie Ward, Yanic Wildschut, Armand Traore and Feeney are all talented, but none of them are serious competition for a regular place. When they come in they do okay, but you don't see them from one month to the next. I've long thought that Callum Paterson could provide a solution on the right, but he's currently filling another void in the centre.

The right balance centrally also remains elusive. You can perm any combination from Aron Gunnarsson, Joe Ralls, Craig Bryson, Loic Damour, Marko Grujic and Paterson without compromising on quality, which is a great source of strength, but they have yet to find a combination that has truly gelled.

These ongoing concerns paint a rather bleak picture, but the reality is that Cardiff are two games away from the Premier League. Despite everything, two more wins will seal the deal.

Cardiff were written off after collapsing over Christmas and responded by going on a lengthy winning run. Losing late on in consecutive games against Wolves and Aston Villa saw them exceed expectations once again to win at Norwich.

Hull will be tough. They've scored 16 goals in their last five games and will provide a stern test for a Cardiff defence that had a little wobble at Derby. All three goals resulted from massive individual errors, the likes of which had been kept to a minimum until then. Hopefully they got them all out of their system on Tuesday.

Reading won't be easy either. They will be keen to end a miserable season on a high and Paul Clement will be looking to instil the kind of defensive discipline that inspired his initial revival of Swansea last year.

If Fulham manage to pip Cardiff, they deserve all the credit in the world for their achievement and remarkable unbeaten run. Ordinarily, Cardiff would be over the line by now and it has taken an extraordinary effort by Fulham to stay in the mix.

The Bluebirds will push them all the way though, of that I have no doubt. They will not fall away or go down without a fight. Their greatest foe may be tired bodies and minds, but Warnock knows what it takes to patch them up and send them out again for another scrap.

We've all had our confidence knocked in recent weeks, but now's not the time to write off Cardiff's chances. On the contrary, they stand on the brink of something truly special and can't do it without you, the fans.

The support against Forest and Derby was brilliant and may make all the difference in the final two games.



https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cardiff-city-fulham-promotion-things-14578721

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Jack Rodwell: Chris Coleman 'does not know where Sunderland midfielder is'

Sunderland manager Chris Coleman says he "doesn't know" where want-away midfielder Jack Rodwell is mentally.

The already-relegated Black Cats travel to promotion-chasing Fulham in the Championship on Friday, but long-term absentee Rodwell will not feature.

"I don't even know where Jack is, to be honest with you. So no, he won't be involved [at Fulham]," Coleman said.

Afterwards, Coleman clarified that he was referring to Rodwell's mental state rather than his whereabouts.

The former Everton and Manchester City midfielder, 27, reportedly earning £70,000-a-week at the Stadium of Light, is training with Sunderland's under-23 squad.

Analysis
Nick Barnes, BBC Radio Newcastle

Coleman is saying he knows where Rodwell is physically, but mentally he has no idea what is going on with him.

The situation remains as was - Rodwell is under contract, training with the under-23 side, and is set to be earning £43,000-a-week in League One next season when his deferred wage cut from this term kicks in. That is, unless something happens in the summer.

'Where's he going to leave and go to?'
Rodwell has not made a senior appearance for Sunderland since September and has asked to leave the club he joined for £10m from Manchester City in August 2014.

Sunderland offered to tear up his contract earlier this season, but Rodwell decided to stay.

His current deal, set to expire in the summer of 2019, does not include Sunderland's usual 40% wage reduction clause following relegation.

In a newspaper interview in January, Rodwell insisted he was fit and available for selection and said it would be "unfair" to ask him to walk away from a lucrative contract, but Coleman believes he does not want to play for Sunderland again.

The former Wales boss added: "I'm quite sure we've gone down the legal route of that situation, and we're stuck with a player that doesn't want to play for Sunderland Football Club and wants to leave.

"But then where's he going to leave and go to? There's the conundrum."

Rodwell has made only 53 starts for the Black Cats, with only three league appearances coming this season.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43905840

[WhiteJC]

The 90-point mark
by Lydia on April 26, 2018

As a league, the Sky Bet Championship is becoming more competitive year on year. This season we could potentially see something that hasn't happened since 1997-98 when the top three sides all achieved 90 or more points. If Cardiff and Fulham both win their last two games then Cardiff will go up with 92points, while Fulham will miss out on automatic promotion and be condemned to the play-offs. If this does happen, then Fulham will be the first team since the history of the Championship in this format to not go up automatically after winning more than 90 points.

Obviously, this is all just speculation, as we still have two games to go and it isn't in anyway a foregone conclusion that we will win them both, but it does show that history tells us that getting to 90+ points should be enough for us to go up. Can both Cardiff and Fulham do it? Quite possibly, but it would be a very rare occurrence.

The closest the promotion race has been recently was in 2015-16, when Middlesbrough and Brighton went toe to toe to the final day when Middlesbrough's better goal difference was what clinched them 2nd spot. What made it even more nail-biting was that Middlesbrough and Brighton were playing each other on the last day, and the 1-1 draw was what was enough for Boro.

It is extremely likely that this year that second promotion spot will be decided on the final day. If we were to lose on Friday night at home to Sunderland, then Cardiff can seal promotion with a win over Hull. I can't see it happening, but stranger things have happened I suppose.

What we can say as a fact, though, is that we need the Cottage to be absolutely rocking on Friday night. Sunderland are already down, but this means that they have nothing to lose, so can play with some element of freedom in that respect. The last team to beat us in the league was Sunderland, so we need to be on the ball to prevent it happening again. If you are lucky enough to be going to Craven Cottage on Friday night then do everything that you can to help the boys out. A win puts the pressure straight back on Cardiff.

#COYW



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/04/the-90-point-mark/

[WhiteJC]

 
Enjoy Up To 40% Off

Fulham fans can enjoy great savings with our End Of Season Sale now on!

As the Whites continue their push for promotion, supporters can pick the the 2017/18 Home Shirt for just £30 Adults and £25 Juniors.

Why not complete the look with this discounts also available on Home Shorts and Socks too.

30% Off All Away Kits

With under two weeks left of the regular season, supporters can also enjoy 30% off all Away Kits.

Secure yours today online or from the Stadium Store at Craven Cottage.

COYW!



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/april/26/end-of-season-sale

[WhiteJC]

 
Preview: Sunderland travel to Fulham hoping for strong end to season

Chris Coleman has reiterated the importance of finishing off the season strongly despite having their fate sealed in the league.

Sunderland play Fulham tomorrow in a tough game for the Black Cats and Craven Cottage, boss Chris Coleman said: "We've got to go with the strongest team we can"

Coleman was questioned on whether the younger players in the squad would get some game time in the league but the manager said: "We've got to be careful for them that we don't put them in too early"

He continued: "We've got to go with a team with the best chance we think of doing something tomorrow night." Coleman seemed keen to finish off the season in the best possible manner, after relegation was confirmed in last weeks fixture against Burton.

Coleman commented: "We're going up against one of the best teams tomorrow night. We've got to finish the two games off properly"

After being questioned on the possibility of Jack Rodwell making an appearance, Coleman said: "I don't even know where Jack is to be honest with you so no, he won't be involved, and I'm sure if there was a sniff of a first team appearance, I'm not sure he'd be 100% fit for it to be honest"

He continued: "We're stuck with a player that doesn't want to play for Sunderland Football Club"

Sunderland will be without winger Aiden McGeady and Brian Oviedo, with Billy Jones being rated as "50/50" to be available.

Lamine Kone and Josh Maja are expected to be available.

Kick-off at Craven Cottage tomorrow is at 19:45.



https://sportsbyte.sunderland.ac.uk/preview-sunderland-travel-to-fulham-hoping-for-strong-end-to-season/

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Theresa May urges FA to reconsider plan to sell Wembley Stadium as opposition grows to £600m sell-off so US billionaire can bring his NFL franchise to UK - forcing England on the road

    The Football Association are on the verge of selling Wembley Stadium
    American Shahid Khan, owner of Fulham has tabled a £600 million bid
    Khan would like to be able to bring regular NFL football to London
    Theresa May has urged the FA to consider fans before accepting the deal

Theresa May tonight warned the FA to think of England fans before committing to selling off Wembley Stadium.

Downing Street insisted the process was at an early stage and ultimately a matter for the FA to resolve. But Mrs May's official spokesman urged caution.

He said: 'This is a decision for the Football Association. But Wembley is the historic home of English football and holds a very special place in the hearts of fans up and down the country.

'I'm sure the FA will want to strongly consider the views of these supporters before deciding what to do next.'


The Football Association are on the verge of selling Wembley Stadium for more than £600million in a move which has sparked a backlash from some fans, who say the 'crown jewel' site should not be handed over to private owners


Fulham's billionaire owner Shahid Khan - the owner of the  is the man who wants to buy the national stadium. It is thought he will use it as the home of a UK-based American football team

Fans today reacted with anger when they heard of a possible plan to sell the ground to an American NFL team.

The iconic site - where England games have been played since 1920s - could be handed to Shahid Khan, the billionaire owner of American football 'franchise' the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Football Association says the huge windfall could be pumped into grassroots football, but fans are uneasy at the thought of the national stadium being privately owned and potentially renamed.

Critics questioned how much the new owner might charge England to play at the ground, while others told of their fears the stadium could end up being be named after US firms like Budweiser or Taco Bell.

Plans for the sale have also sparked a scramble to reclaim the £40million taxpayers' money pumped into the development of the stadium and the £120million National Lottery funding.

It is feared the English national football team may end up having to play home matches at other stadiums around the country while the NFL season is underway.


Fans have expressed concern that the home of English football could become privately-owned and could be renamed


NFL cheerleaders at a NFL game played at Wembley in 2010. The stadium could be about to host many more American football games if the deal to sell it to the Jacksonville Jaguars owner goes ahead

Khan, who is worth an estimated £5.2billion, is prepared to pay £600m in cash and allow the FA to keep its hospitality business Club Wembley that is valued at a further £300m. The FA is said to have around £100m in debt which it was due to pay off in 2024.

Former QPR player Rodney Marsh was among those questioning in the move today. He tweeted: 'Mark this date. If Wembley is sold it will no longer be Wembley Stadium. It will become The Google Sports Arena.'

Local MP and Shadow International Trade Secretary Barry Gardiner added: 'Let's not see our National Football Stadium traded away in a backroom deal. Wembley Stadium is not just at the heart of our borough of Brent, it's at the heart of Britain.'

The Government and Sport England, the Lottery-funded body who pumped £120million into the stadium's construction, are both demanding high-level talks to find out how the deal will impact the future of English football.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said: 'We would like to hear more detail about the way in which such a deal would help the development of the game in this country from the grassroots up. We also want to be reassured that Wembley would remain the home of English football for generations to come.'

ames Price, Campaign Manager at the TaxPayers' Alliance, questioned why so much public money had been ploughed into the scheme just over a decade ago.

He told MailOnline: 'Taxpayers must get their money back from any sale that goes through, and it should not be considered the norm that we are on the hook for these big developments, as the public sector is rarely good at spotting these winning projects.'

But Mr Khan has insisted Wembley would remain home to the England national team.

Describing the plan in a statement released through one of his many clubs, Fulham FC, the tycoon said: 'Wembley Stadium would return to private ownership and the Football Association would be able to focus on its core mission of developing players with the best player developers and facilities anywhere in the game, thanks in part to the vast financial benefit that would result from the transaction.'

He told England fans: 'Always know Wembley would be home to the England national teams, and that we would strive every day of the year to be the best possible steward for a venue that is iconic and beloved here and throughout the world.'

Mr Khan has tabled a formal offer that was being discussed for the first time by the FA board this morning.

If he is successful, it would open the door to the first NFL franchise outside the United States. The billionaire is keen to bring a permanent team to British shores, in what would be an unprecedented move.

While a deal has not yet been agreed, an FA spokesperson confirmed to Sportsmail on Thursday morning that a potential sale is in the pipeline: 'We can confirm that The FA has received an offer to buy Wembley Stadium.'


Khan with his wife of 31 years Ann - the pair are pictured cheering on his side Fulham in 2013


Khan, pictured outside the Jacksonville Jaguars' stadium in 2012, also owns the NFL team


Mr Khan has bought up Fulham Football Club and his superyacht is often seen on the Thame

Sources have also told Sportsmail that the FA hierarchy believe it is an offer that is simply too good to turn down given the cash the governing body will be able to pump back into the game; with the full £600million invested at grass roots level - particularly pitches.

In January the FA said they would finally finish paying for Wembley by the end of 2024, 17 years after the new 90,000-seater stadium was opened at a cost of £757m. A debt of £142m reportedly remained.

But Khan's offer would clear the debt and release the FA from the significant financial burden of running and eventually modernising the stadium, although how much of the Pakistan-born American's money has to be paid to the other stakeholders remains to be seen.

While Sport England paid £120m towards the cost of rebuilding Wembley, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport put up £20m with a further £21m coming from the London Development Agency.

It is understood that officials at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport are now examining contracts from when the stadium was approved to see whether they can recoup any of the £20million they put into the project to build the stadium. 


Fans have expressed their concern that the stadium would lose its iconic status after the sale

Officials from the department are expected to hold discussions with the FA about the possible sale of the stadium, with attention given to how the money made from any sale deal will be spent.

The FA will demand certain conditions as part of any deal. Wembley will remain the home of English football as well as the governing body, although Khan would be able to sell sponsorship rights to the stadium.

The current deal agreed by the FA with EE expires in 2020. And matches like the FA Cup final, the English Football League play-off finals and Rugby League's Challenge Cup final would remain at Wembley.

But England's autumn internationals will have to move away from Wembley if Khan is successful in moving his £1bn NFL franchise to London.

The FA believe England fans would welcome more internationals being played in other parts of the country, with one of England's games ahead of this summer's World Cup being held at Elland Road.

Khan already has an agreement in place to stage one Jacksonville Jaguars game at Wembley every season but he is clearly pursuing the deal to buy Wembley with NFL expansion here in the UK very much in mind.


The stadium would still be used for England matches, potential buyer Mr Khan has said


England would play most of their games at Wembley, but could be forced elsewhere while the NFL season is being played

The NFL today welcomed the move, with Vice President Mark Waller saying: 'We are very happy for Shad Khan and the Jacksonville Jaguars.

'The potential purchase of Wembley Stadium is a further powerful sign of their commitment to the UK and their vision to help us grow the sport.

'Having stadium options in London has always been critical to the NFL and, in tandem with our 10-year partnership with Tottenham Hotspur, this new relationship would allow for even greater flexibility in scheduling future NFL games in London.'

Quite how that impacts on Chelsea, who have considered playing at Wembley for four years while Stamford Bridge is being redeveloped, and Tottenham, who have NFL games as a key part of their business plan for their new stadium, is also unclear at this stage.

Spurs have designed their new ground to incorporate a separate American football pitch and have NFL branding at the new site, having agreed with the NFL to stage two games each year between 2018 and 2027.

Fulham fans may be concerned by the prospect of leaving their historic ground Craven Cottage, however club sources suggested the club would not move to Wembley. 

The FA are no doubt bracing themselves for criticism but they will argue that they are fairly unique among national governing bodies in owning their own stadium. Germany, for instance, do not own their own stadium.

Further to that, FA bosses would point out that it was only in 1999 that they even came to own Wembley. It was then that the FA clinched a £103m deal to purchase the crumbling Twin Towers from Wembley PLC.


The stadium on the site before the redevelopment hosted England's famous World Cup Final win over West Germany in 1966

   
The razzmatazz of the NFL could become a more permanent feature at Wembley if the £600million sale goes through.  Cheerleaders and Miami Dolphins players are picture at previous NFL visits to the stadium

Indeed at the 1966 World Cup a game in England's group between France and Uruguay had to be moved to the White City Stadium because Wembley PLC wanted to stage a greyhound racing event.

Sportsmail understands that FA chief executive Martin Glenn and the hierarchy had already considered selling the stadium as part of the governing body's long-term strategy when Khan floated the idea of buying the stadium.

They will argue it enables them to cash in on their biggest asset while retaining Club Wembley, which is their biggest income stream after their television and sponsorship deals. And they will continue to profit from ticket revenue for England matches and other FA events, simply paying the new owner for use of the stadium.

Khan has no intention of moving Fulham to Wembley. But he is no stranger to such big money deals, having paid around £550m for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2015.



Who is Shahid Khan? From washing dishes for $1.20 an hour to splashing out on a £140m superyacht... meet the man primed to take over ownership of £800m Wembley

Billionaire Shahid Khan's rags to riches story has seen him go from earning just 85p an hour washing dishes to making an £800million bid for one of the crown's of the sporting world.

The 67-year-old highly successful businessman, who moved to the US when he was just 16 with just $500 to his name, could soon become the owner of Wembley Stadium.

His rapid rise to the top saw him become owner of Championship side Fulham in 2013, and the NFL side Jacksonville Jaguars are also one of his outfits.

But it has not come easy to the self-made billionaire from Pakistan, who is now the 217th richest person in the world.


Khan has NFL expansion in the UK in mind, and could even bring his Jacksonville team here

Khan was born in Lahore, Pakistan in July 1950 to mother, Zakia, a maths professor, and father, Rafiq who sold surveying equipment.

Encouraged by his father, who stood for humility and frugality, Khan from an early age developed a nous for business.

As a child he would build and sell radios and perhaps with his father's influence would not allow any opportunity to pass by without being able to make a profit.

For instance, even Khan's childhood friends got a first-hand experience of his financial prudence as they were charged to rent his comic books.

However behind the eye for a profit there was a sporting passion too and Khan would spend many days in his childhood at the Lahore Stadium (now Gaddafi) to bask in cricket. Typically, he saved money by doing this too.

Khan would often go with his father and they never bought a ticket having always walked into the ground after tea when entrance was free.

At the age of 16 he moved to the United States to study mechanical engineering at the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana with just $500 to his name, spending his first nights at a YMCA.


Khan studied engineering at the University of Illinois. He now has a lavish mansion in the state


He stood with his players before their game against the Baltimore Ravens at Wembley in 2017

Concerned that he would quickly run out of money at the $2 a night accommodation, Khan went out the next morning to get his first job... washing dishes for just $1.20 an hour.

Soon after, the engineer by trade would start work at automotive manufacturing company Flex-N-Gate and 13 years after arriving in the United States he bought the company for $800,000.

After initially supplying a small range of bumpers to Toyota, the 1980s saw demand increase from the Japanese car manufacturer for his 'one-piece bumpers' to the point that by 1989 his company was the sole supplier.

As recently as 2012, Flex-N-Gate were on two-thirds of all the cars and trucks sold in the United States with sales worth $3.5billion. According to Forbes the company now has 62 plants worldwide and over 24,000 employees.

In 1991, Khan became a US citizen but it was not until 2010 when he first rekindled that childhood passion for sports while trying to purchase 60 per cent of the NFL side St Louis Rams.

Intriguingly he quickly ran into a road block put up by current Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke.


Khan has a passion for sports; he is pictured celebrating a Fulham goal away at Crystal Palace

A deal was all but agreed for Khan to purchase his stake but as a minority shareholder of the Rams Kroenke exercised a clause in his ownership agreement to match any proposed bid that denied Khan the chance to become the first ethnic minority to own an NFL team.

It took Khan another two years to land that accolade when he completed the $770m purchase of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who after a few years of failure have shown rapid improvement.

Under a new coach in Doug Marrone, the franchise recently recorded their first winning season as well as reaching the play-offs for the first time in a decade.

But NFL was not enough for Khan and just a year after purchasing the Jaguars he moved into the realms of owning a Premier League club – if only that status was brief.

Khan bought Fulham off Mohamed Al Fayed for a fee believed to be between £150m and £200m ahead of a tumultuous season for the club that would end with their relegation from the top flight.

The club were in turmoil for much of the campaign, going through three managers including Martin Jol, Rene Meulensteen and the highly unpopular Felix Magath on their way to the Championship.

Like the Jaguars, there were no immediate improvements at the club following two seasons flirting with another relegation.


Khan poses with former Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed after purchasing the London club

But the appointment of Slavisa Jokanovic led to top-six finish in 2017 and this season could still end with automatic promotion to the Premier League.

Even with two sports teams under his wing, Khan continued to grow his assets and in 2016 he purchased Toronto's Four Seasons hotel for C$225 million.

According to Forbes, Khan's business adventures make him the 217th richest man in the world with a fortune worth £5.16bn ($7.2bn). Despite his frugal upbringing he isn't afraid to spend some of it either.

Along with his wife Ann, who he met in 1977 and has two children with, Khan owns a stunning 312ft superyacht worth £140m named Kismet and is also the owner of three private jets.

Khan however is also not afraid to dip into his pockets for good causes. Through the Jacksonville Jaguars foundation as well as the NFL he is involved with philanthropy while in 2011 he donated $10m to the University of Illinois.

It is in Illinois where he owns a large house as well as an $8m penthouse in Park Tower, Chicago. However he also owns another large penthouse in Naples, Florida, which he purchased in 2014 for $11.5 million.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan wooed US billionaire trying to buy Wembley Stadium shortly after taking office and met him again just last month

Sadiq Khan wooed the US billionaire trying to buy Wembley by flying to Chicago shortly after taking office and has held regular meetings with him including one just last month, MailOnline can reveal today.

The Mayor of London has long been encouraging Shahid Khan to invest in London and urged him to bring a permanent NFL franchise to the capital. 

Their first meeting was in September 2016 where the Labour politician met him in his Chicago apartment and has said he's a 'great friend' to London.

Just last month they met in London when the Wembley plan, said to be 18 months in the making, was fully formed.

He tweeted: 'Always a pleasure to catch up with @FulhamFC @Jaguars owner Shad Khan - a great friend to London, and supporter of bringing world-class @NFL action to our city. #LondonIsOpen #SXSW

Mr Khan first posed with billionaire Mr Khan, the owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars and Fulham Football Club, in September 2016 and the pair are said to have become firm friends.

He tweeted a picture of himself holding a Jaguars jersey in his and said: 'Great to meet Shahid Khan today to talk about my drive to bring an franchise to London'.

The politician was on a five-day trip to Montreal, Chicago and New York to drum up business.

They met again when the Jaguars took on Baltimore Ravens at Wembley in September last year.

Last month London's Mayor again said he wanted to bring NFL to London permanently and suggested Wembley could take on more games, especially when Spurs move back to White Hart Lane from August.

London has hosted 21 regular season games since 2007 and he wants it to be the sporting capital of the world


Sadiq Khan meeting Shahid Khan in 2016 in his Chicago flat when he flew to the US to drum up business

He said: 'I've been saying since the first day I became Mayor my ambition is to have more American football games in London and ultimately for there to be a franchise there and, dare I say it, even the Super Bowl.

'I met recently one of the owners of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Shahid Khan.

'I've met the NFL commissioner on a number of occasions, most recently at the game at Twickenham this year and my team is working very closely with the NFL.

'This year we'll have three games in our city for a variety of reasons to do with the availability of Twickenham and other issues.

'Obviously once Spurs open up their stadium that will give us the potential to have more games there, but I'm ambitious - the idea is to have eight games in London eventually, which is the number a franchise team plays and then who knows, maybe one day the Super Bowl.'

WEMBLEY Q+A: WHERE WOULD ENGLAND PLAY AND WHAT WOULD HAPPEN TO THE £600M?

There are plenty of questions on the lips of football fans... where will the national team play? Will the FA Cup final be affected? What will happen to the money?

With that in mind, Sportsmail's Laura Lambert answers the burning questions...


Who currently owns Wembley?

The FA bought Wembley in 1999, and owns it through its subsidiary Wembley National Stadium Ltd, but there are a number of stakeholders involved.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport put in £20million to the £757million project, £18million of which is still owed, Sport England put in £120million (£78.5million of which is still owed), and the London Development Agency contributed £21million (of which £16.2million is still owed). The FA accepted other grants from commercial partners to help with the construction, with £4.6million still owed.

Who is behind the bid?

Shahid Khan, the billionaire owner of Fulham FC and more importantly Jacksonville Jaguars. Khan made his fortune producing car bumpers in the U.S. and is now one of the richest people in the world. His decision to bid will be heavily linked to hoped-for NFL expansion.

Where would England play?

Wembley would remain the home of English football but England's autumn internationals would have to be played elsewhere, to make way for NFL games at Wembley, which would be held between September and December.

After the old Wembley closed its doors in 2000, England were on the road between February 2001 and February 2007, playing at 14 different grounds.

There are plenty of questions on the lips of football fans... where will the national team play? Will the FA Cup final be affected? What will happen to the money?

With that in mind, Sportsmail's Laura Lambert answers the burning questions...


Who currently owns Wembley?

The FA bought Wembley in 1999, and owns it through its subsidiary Wembley National Stadium Ltd, but there are a number of stakeholders involved.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport put in £20million to the £757million project, £18million of which is still owed, Sport England put in £120million (£78.5million of which is still owed), and the London Development Agency contributed £21million (of which £16.2million is still owed). The FA accepted other grants from commercial partners to help with the construction, with £4.6million still owed.

Who is behind the bid?

Shahid Khan, the billionaire owner of Fulham FC and more importantly Jacksonville Jaguars. Khan made his fortune producing car bumpers in the U.S. and is now one of the richest people in the world. His decision to bid will be heavily linked to hoped-for NFL expansion.

Where would England play?

Wembley would remain the home of English football but England's autumn internationals would have to be played elsewhere, to make way for NFL games at Wembley, which would be held between September and December.

After the old Wembley closed its doors in 2000, England were on the road between February 2001 and February 2007, playing at 14 different grounds.

Where would FA Cup, Challenge Cup Final and play-offs be staged?

The FA Cup final and semi-finals, The FA Community Shield, The FA Vase and Trophy Finals, EFL Cup Final, Rugby League's Challenge Cup final and the Football League play-offs would continue to be played at Wembley.

Only the fixtures played at Wembley in the autumn would be affected. It is understood Euro 2020 fixtures at Wembley, which includes the semi-final and final, would be able to go ahead as planned.

How would Tottenham's NFL plans be affected?

Tottenham already have a 10-year deal in the place with the NFL in 2015 to host at least two games a year at the new, £1billion White Hart Lane, and this should not be affected.

NFL invested £10million into the new stadium, which features the world's first dividing retractable pitch. If Tottenham had harboured ambitions of hosting an NFL franchise at the new White Hart Lane, this could be affected by Khan's bid.

How might Chelsea and any plans to temporarily move to Wembley be affected?

Chelsea's position was said to be 'unchanged'. It is understood they would not be looking for a temporary home - during building work at Stamford Bridge - until 2021, and will monitor the situation regarding Wembley. It has previously been reported that Chelsea was considering renting Wembley for around £11million a season.

Would Wembley now be the home of the Jacksonville Jaguars?

The deal could pave the way for the first overseas NFL franchise. Shahid Khan made it clear that the future stability of the Jacksonville Jaguars was a key part of his bid for Wembley, and that owning Wembley would 'protect the Jaguars' position in London'.

He will need the green-light from NFL to move Jacksonville Jaguars's franchise out of the U.S..

Where would the FA be based?

For the foreseeable future, the FA's headquarters would continue to be at Wembley. The FA moved its base from Soho Square in central London to Wembley in a £17m move in 2009.



http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/sportsnews/article-5657091/FA-primed-SELL-Wembley-Stadium-astonishing-800m-deal.html

[WhiteJC]

 
Two out, two doubtful: Sunderland manager shares team news for Fulham clash

Sunderland manager Chris Coleman has revealed that two of his usual first team members will be out injured for tomorrow night's clash with Fulham, the club's official website reports.

In his pre-match press conference, Coleman revealed that Aiden McGeady and Bryan Oviedo are not fit enough to feature in tomorrow's Championship game with high flying Fulham.

McGeady has been riding through the pain barrier and playing with injections for the past six weeks so now that Sunderland have little to play for, they will not risk the Republic of Ireland international.

Sunderland are already relegated to League One with still two games left to play this season.

Their fate was sealed last weekend when two late Burton Albion goals gave the visitors a 2-1 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light and consigned the hosts to relegation.

Ahead of their upcoming game against Fulham, Coleman also revealed that Oviedo was not ready to make a comeback yet.

The Costa Rican defender missed the game against Burton due to a hamstring injury, although Coleman is hopeful that he will have a full week of training before the final game of the season.

Meanwhile, late assessments will be made on Josh Maja and Billy Jones while Lamine Kone is expected to be fit.

The Verdict

With little to play for now, Sunderland's players will either be playing for their future at the club or putting themselves in a shop window. I cannot see the Black Cats, even with a full strength side, getting anything out of the Fulham game. It is now about rebuilding and blooding in players who can play a larger role next season.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/two-out-two-doubtful-sunderland-manager-shares-team-news-for-fulham-clash/

[WhiteJC]

 
Wembley: Football Association offered £900m to sell national football stadium

Wembley Stadium cost £757m and opened in 2007

Fulham owner Shahid Khan has made an offer, thought to be worth £900m, to buy Wembley Stadium from the Football Association.

It is understood Khan would pay £600m for the stadium and the FA will continue to run the Club Wembley hospitality business, valued at £300m.

The FA board discussed the approach at a meeting on Thursday.

"We would strive to be the best possible steward for a venue that is iconic," said Khan.

The owner of NFL side Jacksonville Jaguars added: "Wembley would return to private ownership and the Football Association would be able to focus on its core mission of developing players.

"I trust many if not most of you are also supporters of the England national teams, so I hope you welcome the potential of this becoming a reality."

Fulham coach Slavisa Jokanovic said at a news conference on Thursday that Khan told him "about his plan a year and a half ago - he's very ambitious".

BBC Sport understands selling Wembley would allow the FA to make a major investment into football at grassroots level.

But, according to the FA's latest financial results, it still owes £113m to public bodies such as Sport England, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, plus the London Development Agency, which helped pay to build the stadium, which cost £757m and opened in 2007.

The FA said in January it would finish paying for the ground by the end of 2024.

The 90,000-seat stadium, which is the largest in the United Kingdom, has been the home for Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur this season while work on their new stadium takes place.

What about NFL matches?
Spurs also have a deal with the NFL to stage a minimum of two games a season over 10 years once their new stadium is complete.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy said the link-up with the NFL was a "compelling and exciting partnership".

NFL executive vice-president Mark Waller said having stadium options in London has been "critical to the NFL".

His statement added: "The potential purchase of Wembley Stadium is a further powerful sign of their commitment to the UK and their vision to help us grow the sport.

"This new relationship would allow for even greater flexibility in scheduling future NFL games in London."

Analysis
It's an offer that doesn't come along all too often.

The FA board has a huge decision to make now.

The money, I'm told, would be ploughed by the FA into the grassroots game, with a potentially revolutionary effect on provision of coaches, coach educators, 4G pitches and money to revamp facilities.

As for the England teams? Well, they will still be able to call Wembley their home.

What now for FA Cup semi-finals and final? Or the other major trophy games and play-off finals? Could they stay at Wembley or will other big grounds such as Old Trafford or Emirates Stadium benefit as a result? In short, are we about to witness Wembley's status as the national stadium erode?

Greater commercialisation of the stadium is perhaps almost inevitable if it is to become home, in time, to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

But for a ground officially known right now as "Wembley Stadium connected by EE" that's maybe not such a leap.


Shahid Khan bought Fulham in 2013

Who is Shahid Khan?
BBC Radio London's Andy Rowley

Khan came to prominence in England when buying Fulham in 2013 from Mohamed Al-Fayed.

The 67-year-old was born in Lahore, Pakistan but moved to the United States at the age of 16 to study engineering and went on to become a billionaire as an automobile parts manufacturer.

Khan's current net worth is $7.2bn (£5.2bn), making him the 217th richest person in the world according to the 2018 Forbes rich list, and the 73rd richest in the United States.

Khan bought NFL franchise Jacksonville Jaguars in 2011 and they have had a deal to play "home" games at Wembley since 2013. The contract for that is in place until 2020 as the Jaguars have tried to put themselves at the forefront of the NFL links with London.

Fulham are pushing for a return to the Premier League, having been relegated to the Championship in 2014 soon after Khan's arrival, while Jacksonville had their best season for a decade, reaching the AFC Championship game before being beaten by New England Patriots.

Khan has stated that any prospective deal for Wembley will have no impact on his commitment to Fulham and the proposed redevelopment of the Riverside stand.

Khan's son, Tony, has been vice chairman and director of football operations at Fulham since February 2017, having previously advised on football operations.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43906272

[WhiteJC]

 
Chris Coleman says Jack Rodwell will not play for Sunderland against Fulham
Coleman: "We're stuck with a player that doesn't want to play for Sunderland football club and wants to leave"

Sunderland manager Chris Coleman says Jack Rodwell will not be involved against Fulham on Friday, because he does not know where the £70,000-a-week midfielder is.

Rodwell, a three-capped England international, has not made a senior appearance for the Black Cats since September, despite their struggles at the foot of the Championship table.

Sunderland manager Chris Coleman says Jack Rodwell will not be involved against Fulham on Friday, because he does not know where the £70,000-a-week midfielder is.

Rodwell, a three-capped England international, has not made a senior appearance for the Black Cats since September, despite their struggles at the foot of the Championship table.

"I don't even know where Jack is, to be honest with you, so no, he won't be involved," Coleman said.

"If there was a sniff of a first-team appearance, I'm not sure he'd be 100 per cent fit for it, so I don't think that's going to be the case."

After an injury-plagued three-and-a-half years on Wearside, Sunderland offered to cancel Rodwell's contract in January in a bid to remove him from the wage bill.

But Rodwell decided to stay, on a deal which still has another year to run, and insisted in a well-publicised interview that he was fit and available for selection if called upon.

Coleman, though, is not convinced and added: "I'm quite sure we've gone down the legal route of that situation, and we're stuck with a player that doesn't want to play for Sunderland Football Club and wants to leave.

"But then where's he going to leave and go to? There's the conundrum.

"He's here and he's got one more year on his contract. He doesn't want to play for us, so fine, go and play for somebody else. But the stumbling block is the contract.

"We'll see, it's the end of this season now.

"I know Jack did that big article, that he wanted to play for England again, so to do that, he's going to have to go and play football somewhere.

"The proof is always in the pudding."



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11695/11347165/chris-coleman-says-jack-rodwell-will-not-play-for-sunderland-against-fulham

[WhiteJC]

 
Don Goodman's predicted Championship table: Fulham to pip Cardiff in promotion race

With two games left, we asked Don Goodman to predict the race for promotion in the Sky Bet Championship.

Wolves have already clinched promotion to the Premier League, but who will follow them?

Cardiff and Fulham face a straight shootout for the second automatic spot, although Aston Villa can mathematically catch the pair but need snookers.

As it stands, Cardiff know two wins from their final two games will guarantee them second spot but Fulham are just a point behind and arguably have easier fixtures to negotiate.

Meanwhile, Middlesbrough need just one win from their two games to assure themselves a play-off place while Derby, Millwall, Brentford, Preston, Bristol City and Sheffield United all can still grab that final spot.

Derby have a two-point cushion on their rivals but have a tricky trip to Villa to negotiate.

Remember, there are two live EFL games on Sky Sports Football this weekend: Fulham face Sunderland at Craven Cottage from 7pm on Friday night, while Middlesbrough host Millwall on Saturday from 5.15pm.

Here's how Don predicts the top half to look after the final two games....
2nd: Fulham (91 points)
Friday 27 April: Sunderland (h)

Don says: 3-0

Sunday 6 May: Birmingham (a)

Don says: 1-2

Don's view: "It's hard to see them not winning both of their games. I think that will be enough to finish second. The Birmingham game won't be easy, which Neil Warnock has already alluded to - he thinks there could be twists and turns to come. Fulham could be going into that game knowing a win will give them automatic promotion. I would expect them to win that game."

3rd: Cardiff (90 points)
Saturday 28 April: Hull (a)

Don says: 2-2

Sunday 6 May: Reading (h)

Don says: 2-0

Don's view: "The Hull game is a tough one - that could be their downfall. Hull City are a capable team going forward but they do give you chances. It's not an easy place to go - Hull will play with a freedom. Cardiff have looked nervy and I wonder if the situation is getting to them slightly. But, there's no one better than Warnock at rousing their players. If Cardiff go to Hull and win, then they'll be hard to stop.

"Their haul of 90 points is a remarkable record. It would equal the record in terms of points gained without going up. They would be desperately unlucky if that was to happen."

4th: Aston Villa (86 points)
Saturday 28 April: Derby (h)

Don says: 1-0

Sunday 6 May: Millwall (a)

Don says: 1-1

Don's view: "If the scores go the way I predict then that final game against Millwall won't mean much. It'll be all about preparing for the play-offs."

5th: Middlesbrough (76 points)
Saturday 28 April: Millwall (h)

Don says: 2-0

Sunday 6 May: Ipswich (a)

Don says: 1-1

Don's view: "I can see Middlesbrough being too strong for Millwall but Tony Pulis is likely to rest a few players on that last day, which is why it'll be a tight game."

6th: Derby (74 points)
Saturday 28 April: Aston Villa (a)

Don says: 1-0

Sunday 6 May: Barnsley (h)

Don says: 2-0

Don's view: "Villa need to put themselves in a position to take advantage of any slips from Cardiff or Fulham. That is why I can see them edging it against Derby. However, Barnsley may be gone by the final day and Derby will be too strong for them. On my predictions, they'll sneak into the final play-off place on goal difference!"

7th: Brentford (74 points)
Saturday 28 April: Barnsley (a)

Don says 1-2

Sunday 6 May: Hull (h)

Don says: 3-1

Don's view: "Brentford have a chance of sneaking in. They are one of my favourite teams to watch. They play fast, attacking football but there is vulnerability about them defensively. I see Brentford winning both of their last games - it remains to seen whether that's enough to make as they need Derby to slip. Judging by my numbers, they'll just miss out."

8th: Preston (71 points)
Saturday 28 April: Sheffield United (a) Don says: 1-1

Sunday 6 May: Burton (h) Don says: 2-0

9th: Bristol City (70 points)
Saturday 28 April: Nottingham Forest (a) Don says: 2-1

Sunday 6 May: Sheffield United (h) Don says 2-2

10th: Millwall (70 points)
Saturday 28 April: Middlesbrough (a) Don says 2-0

Sunday 6 May: Aston Villa (h) Don says 1-1

11th: Sheffield United (68 points)
Saturday 28 April: Preston (h) Don says: 1-1

Sunday 6 May: Bristol City (a) Don says: 2-2



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11688/11347137/don-goodmans-predicted-championship-table-fulham-to-pip-cardiff-in-promotion-race

[WhiteJC]

 
London calling:
Mumba joins first team for Fulham

16-year-old Bali Mumba will travel to Fulham on Friday after being named in Sunderland's senior squad for the first time.

Luke Molyneux and Elliot Embleton have also been included in the group heading to Craven Cottage, with the trio selected following their recent performances for the under-23s.

Embleton made his debut earlier in the season at Wolves with Molyneux recovering from a period in the treatment to score five goals in his last six games, but it's new territory entirely for Mumba who only made the step up to under-23 level in February.

And to top it all off, Chris Coleman revealed the first-team call has got him out of double biology in the process.

"It's the first time for Bali," said the Welshman. "He's happy, I think we've got him out of double biology today!

"There will be one or two younger boys in the squad with us because we have got one or two missing, and one or two doubts."

He continued: "Bali is travelling with us, Luke Molyneux, Elliot Embleton.

"We've lost one or two to injury and it will be good experience for them.

"Ethan Robson will be with us but he has been in and out of course."



https://www.safc.com/news/team-news/2018/april/mumba-receives-first-team-call

[WhiteJC]

 
Chairman Statement

A message to the Fulham supporters from our Chairman Shahid Khan.

It was revealed today that I have made an offer to purchase Wembley Stadium from The Football Association. To everyone in the Fulham Family, I wanted you to be among the first to hear the news, directly from me, and share a bit of background.

As you likely know, in addition to the privilege of serving as Chairman of Fulham Football Club, I am also owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League in the U.S. The Jaguars have played regular season home games at Wembley Stadium in each of the past five NFL seasons and will continue to do so at least through the 2020 season. The games the Jaguars play at Wembley are essential to the financial stability of the Jaguars in Jacksonville, which is one of the smallest markets in the NFL. If my ownership interests were to include Wembley Stadium, it would protect the Jaguars' position in London at a time when other NFL teams are understandably becoming more interested in this great city. And the stronger the Jaguars are in London, the more stable and promising the Jaguars' future will be in Jacksonville.

As important, Wembley Stadium would return to private ownership and The Football Association would be able to focus on its core mission of developing players with the best player developers and facilities anywhere in the game, thanks in part to the vast financial benefit that would result from the transaction. I trust many if not most of you are also supporters of the England national teams, so I hope you welcome the potential of this becoming a reality. Always know Wembley would be home to the England national teams, and that we would strive every day of the year to be the best possible steward for a venue that is iconic and beloved here and throughout the world.

No matter what the outcome of our offer may be, I want to emphatically state to you that none of this will have any effect on my commitment to your Club.

To be clear, this venture is 100 per cent independent of my investment in and operation of Fulham Football Club, Motspur Park and Craven Cottage. No less attention will be paid to developing players and fielding a squad that will win with frequency and always make you proud. It will have no impact on Craven Cottage as the home of FFC. And this is imperative to know, and I encourage you to spread the word – absolutely nothing changes in our plans to redevelop the Riverside Stand.

I hope you will support my effort in this endeavour, and I know you're with me in wishing our First Team the very best tomorrow night against Sunderland as we take aim at promotion in the final two weekends of the season. I have submitted programme notes for tomorrow's match that reflect upon our magical campaign and the opportunity ahead, and I'll have them posted online here at fulhamfc.com in advance of kick-off.

In case you don't get a chance to read the notes, let me take this opportunity to thank you for all you've done to make this a record-breaking season at Fulham Football Club. Come On You Whites!



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/april/26/chairman-statement

[WhiteJC]

 
The Sunderland prodigy travelling to Fulham and exactly what's happening with Jack Rodwell

Sunderland prodigy Bali Mumba will travel with the squad for the Friday night clash at Craven Cottage.

Mumba is just 16 but has recently broken into the club's U23 side and has been capped at youth level by England.

The midfielder will be part of the travelling party but will not be part of the matchday 18, unless there is a late injury. Some of Mumba's talented team-mates will also make the trip. Chris Coleman said: "Bali Mumba is travelling with us, as is Luke Molyneux, Elliot Embleton. We've lose one or two to injury and it will be good experience for them. Ethan Robson will be with us but he has been in and out of course. "It's the first time for Bali. He's happy, I think we've got him out of double biology today!"

Coleman has a number of injury concerns ahead of the game to Fulham but will name as strong a team as he possibly can. That could mean one or two of the club's loan players features, despite relegation to League One already being confirmed. Coleman said: "There will be one or two younger boys in the squad with us because we have got one or two missing, and one or two doubts.

"Aiden McGeady has been playing for the last six weeks despite having injections in his heel before every game which has been a risk, and we don't want to take that risk now. "It's got to the stage where we don't want put him at any more risk than we need to. "Billy Jones is 50-50, probably a no, after coming back from injury last week. "Bryan Oviedo is a no.

"Lamine Kone has trained twice this week which is positive, so he should be alright. "Josh Maja has had a slight problem this week so we've had to take him off the grass, but he should be OK to train today and to be involved tomorrow. "Joel Asoro has trained the full week which is good news. "If we get three points, it won't change our situation but we are still professional football people and our supporters are travelling down to Fulham, do we have a job to do and we have to do it as best we can," he added. "Fulham are competing with Aston Villa and Cardiff for automatic promotion and we won't be doing anyone any favours – nobody did us any."

Jack Rodwell continues to be absent from the first team picture and will not be involved in the final two fixtures. Rodwell trains with the U23s after telling Coleman shortly after his arrival that he wanted to leave the club. The 27-year-old turned down a deadline day loan move to the Eredivisie and has just over a year left to run on his current deal. His wages were not altered by the club's relegation to the Championship but should he stay, it will be reduced to around £40,000.

He has not played any competitive football since appearing in an U23 game at Exeter City on February 11. The highest-paid player at the club, he has played just 159 first team minutes this season. Coleman said: "He trains with the U23s every morning, in that nice, safe umbrella, he's not in the spotlight or the firing line with the rest of us, which he chose. "When I say don't know where he is I mean physically and mentally, and there's no interest [from me] because he's not the answer for us. "I'm sure we've gone down the legal route of that situation and we are stuck with a player that doesn't want to play for Sunderland football club and wants to leave," he added.

"But where is he going to leave and go to? That's the conundrum. "He's got one more year on his contract and he doesn't want to play for us, so fine, go and play for somebody else, but the stumbling block is the contract. "So we'll see at the end of the season. "I know Jack did that article saying he wanted to play for England again so to do that, he's going to have to go and play football somewhere. The proof is always in the pudding."



Read more at: https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/the-sunderland-prodigy-travelling-to-fulham-and-exactly-what-s-happening-with-jack-rodwell-1-9136681

[WhiteJC]

 
Who is Bali Mumba? The schoolboy who could make his Sunderland debut at Fulham

The 16-year-old midfielder is still at school but he could make his Sunderland debut against Fulham on Friday evening

Bali Mumba will be involved with Sunderland's senior squad for the first time on Friday evening when the Black Cats travel to Fulham.

With relegation to League One now confirmed for Chris Coleman's side, and injuries mounting up, the Welshman has included three youngsters in his squad travelling to West London.

Mumba is one of those making the step up and should he make his senior debut he will become the youngest player to make a senior appearance for the club in the Championship.

But who is Bali Mumba? We profile the potential Sunderland history-maker.

Where does he play?

Central midfield
How old is he?

16
What is his background?

Mumba hasn't even officially started his scholarship but has excelled for Sunderland's under-18s this term and has recently made the step up to under-23 level.

He has been at Sunderland ever since he was scouted as a year three pupil and he has been training regularly with the first-team.

His progress hasn't gone unnoticed and Liverpool were reportedly monitoring him in January. He has also won two caps for England's under-17 side.

What do they say about him?

Speaking after selecting him for the senior squad, Coleman joked: "It's the first time for Bali," said the Welshman. "He's happy, I think we've got him out of double biology today!"

Speaking about training with the first team, Mumba himself, said: "I was nervous before my first session with the first-team because I didn't know what to expect or what might happen but after training with them it really shows you where you are and what step you are in your development.

"It helped show me what I needed to work on and training with them has been good.

"It has really opened up my mind and showed me what I need to work on to become a better player."



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/who-bali-mumba-midfielder-who-14580855

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham v Sunderland
FRI 27 Apr 2018   Championship
Venue: Craven Cottage

Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ryan Sessegnon have scored 26 goals between them for Fulham this season

Fulham will move back up to second in the Championship if they avoid defeat by already-relegated Sunderland.

Boss Slavisa Jokanovic is likely to name the same side that beat Millwall 3-0 last week.

Sunderland manager Chris Coleman could make changes after their relegation to League One was confirmed last week.

Winger Aiden McGeady is out but defender Lamine Kone should be fit despite going off injured in the defeat by Burton.

SAM's prediction
Home win 86%   Draw 9%   Away win 5%

SAM, the Sports Analytics Machine, is a super-computer built by @ProfIanMcHale of the University of Liverpool.

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic:

"I'd prefer to change my position with Cardiff's. They are in a perfect moment, they are one point ahead of us.

"If it was possible, I would prefer to swap and be in second, and I'd prefer they were chasing us. That's not the case.

"We must try and do our job. We can't think about what is going to happen later and if Cardiff are going to be under pressure or not. This is not under my control.

"We have positive pressure before we play against Sunderland. It's important we don't make mistakes, but the situation is completely under Cardiff's control.

"If they win these two games, we can't do anything."

Sunderland manager Chris Coleman told BBC Newcastle:

"We'll have one or two younger lads with us but that's because we've got one or two fitness doubts in the squad.

"Looking at the lads and seeing where they are psychologically and physically, I'm picking the best squad I can to take on Fulham.

"We'll have supporters travelling down there, follow us anywhere and we've still got a job and a duty to do.

"In the past six or seven games, six have been very good and that's what we've got to continue to do."

Match facts
    Fulham have lost their last three home matches against Sunderland in all competitions, conceding 10 goals across those matches.
    The Black Cats have won three of their last four matches against the Cottagers in all competitions (D1), beating them 1-0 at the Stadium of Light earlier this season.
    Fulham are currently on a run of 22 league matches unbeaten, with their last defeat coming at the hands of Sunderland 16 December 2017.
    Sunderland are unbeaten in their last three away league matches in the league (W1 D2), and have not gone four in a row without losing on the road since May 2016 (five games).
    Fulham have scored first in their last 15 league games, the longest run of any side in England's top four tiers this season.
    If Sunderland lose, the Black Cats will become the first side since Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1983-84 and 1984-85 to finish bottom of the top two divisions of English football in back-to-back seasons, and just the third side to ever achieve such a feat (also Fulham in 1967-68 and 1968-69).



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/43833102