Friday Fulham Stuff (04/05/18)...

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The Cardiff City vs Fulham promotion head to head: Every word pundits Craig Bellamy and Danny Murphy said on compelling Sky debate

Bluebirds legend Craig Bellamy and ex Fulham star Danny Murphy spoke in depth about the final day promotion decider on Sky Debate

Cardiff City and Fulham head into a final day promotion decider with the Bluebirds taking on Reading and the Cottagers going to Birmingham City.

Neil Warnock's are in the box seat, as Sky Sports pundits Craig Bellamy and Danny Murphy gave their fascinating verdicts on what will happen this weekend.

Bellamy of course is a Bluebirds legend, while Murphy has a foot in the Whites corner as an ex Fulham star.

Here is the fascinating transcript from the Sky Debate on the huge twists and turns we can expect...

Will they see it out?

Bellamy: "The Derby result was obviously disappointing but with Hull away and Reading at home, I always fancied us because the style of football we play, the directness, will be too much for them. We're very difficult to play against, we really are.

"I've watched a lot of Championship football this year.

"A lot of teams will have the ball against Cardiff, they're comfortable with it, it's not a problem to them. But can you deal with the ball coming into your box from every area of the football pitch?

"It's not pretty but they do it for a reason — because they get results from it. They're a difficult, difficult team to play against."

It's not in Fulham's hands, but they're on a roll now?

Murphy: "I think Fulham will get the win but I thought for Cardiff to go to Hull and win was a tremendous performance. I was at Fulham on Friday and they were a bit nervy (against Sunderland) but they got over the line and put the pressure on Cardiff, which was all they could do.

"That last minute equaliser against Brentford two weeks previous was a killer, but what's fascinating about the Championship is the extremes of these two teams.

"They're very different, but I like that because it shows you can get success in different ways. You don't always have to be pretty and play it out from the back. I like Fuham, the manager and the way they play."


Danny Murphy in his Fulham days

Bellamy: " You couldn't come across two more opposite teams in terms of how they play football. But they're both having huge success from it.

"There's become a snobbery in football, I keep hearing the words 'right way of playing' — but there is no right and wrong way of playing. You just have to get results and Cardiff knew what they were doing when they brought Neil Warnock in.

"We knew what we were going to get and that's what he's been promoted on more than one occasion.

"This club, like every other club in the Championship, was desperate for promotion. Financially, we need it. If Neil Warnock is available, which he was at the time — which was crazy — why wouldn't you go and get him?

"Look what he's done in the space of a year and a half!

"And it's not rocket science, it's route one and whether people like it or not — and opposition fans might want to boo it — they would much rather sit on our points... we're one win away from being in the Premier League.

"People say you can't play like that in the Premier League, but we'll deal with that later."

Can Cardiff play survive playing like that in the Premier League?

Bellamy: "I don't know, that's the honest truth!"

Murphy: "Stoke survived that way for years, not exactly the same but a similar philosophy and built a squad to do it.

"And going there was tough, in the Premier League your home form is what keeps you up.

"Look, Neil Warnock, love him or hate him, you have to take your hat off to him. To keep getting promotions and do it over a period of time when people say the game changes, credit to him.

"Hat off to the Fulham manager too because he's got a lovely mix of experience and young players and playing the right way."

Bellamy: "Stop saying 'right way', there's no right or wrong way!"

Murphy: "I didn't finish the sentence! I mean playing the right way for the Fulham supporters, because that's what they want to see.

"But either one is going to be very disappointed. They're going to end in a play-off scenario and just missing out is deflating."

Do you have a concern that Fulham's momentum will be stopped if they drop into the play-offs?

Murphy: "I think it'll be hard, it's always a worry because you kind of feel you shouldn't be there.

"I also think we should look at the play-offs differently. Maybe the team who finishes third just plays the game at home? Rather than another two games, they've already played 46 games in the Championship. It's a slog.

"And there's no advantage of finishing third."

Bellamy: "I think Cardiff will go up just due to the fact that nerves won't get in the way, don't worry about that.

"There's been a couple of teams who have worked Cardiff out this season. The best team I've seen go to Cardiff was Fulham when they won 4-2 and it could have been more. Fulham were outstanding and that's when they upped their gear after Christmas.

"I like this Fulham team and if they do go into the play-offs, I hope they go up because the players they have with (Ryan) Sessegnon, who as a young player is one of the best I've seen in a long time."

Murphy : "Last year, losing in the play-offs, Fulham must learn from that. They didn't take their chances and threw it away in the end. These are big games and hopefully the players have learned.

"Anything can happen on the last day of the season but I'm with Craig, I can't see a different outcome than Cardiff absolutely battering Reading into the ground."



https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cardiff-city-fulham-bellamy-murphy-14608597

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Birmingham City v Fulham - Contain or entertain? The tactical dilemma facing Garry Monk

Which side should BCFC pick to face rampant Fulham?

Garry Monk must consider how to resist the irresistible force on Sunday when he picks a Birmingham City side to face rampant Fulham.

The Londoners arrive on the back of a 23-game unbeaten run, having not lost a Championship match since December 16, 2017.

They do so in search of the victory that might not just earn them automatic promotion, it might relegate Blues too.

Thankfully Monk not only has a fully fit squad from which to choose, other than long-term absentee Isaac Vassell, but knows his team will be backed by an immovable object - a sold out St Andrew's.

It is a season finale that will be played on the pitch, in the minds and in the stands - and at several other venues around the country too.

So how should the Blues boss approach it? With a philosophy of entertainment or containment?

Team news

Blues have Harlee Dean available after his two game suspension for the red card at Wolves.

He will challenge Marc Roberts and perhaps Michael Morrison for a place in central defence.

The Blues boss also has a plethora of options in central midfield - David Davis, Craig Gardner, Maikel Kieftenbeld, Cheikh Ndoye and Jason Lowe are all expected to be available.

Up front Lukas Jutkiewicz, Che Adams and Sam Gallagher contend for the two, or perhaps only one, striking role.

Brian Dick
Blues (4-5-1): Stockdale; Colin, Morrison, Dean, Grounds; Jota, Kieftenbeld, Davis, Gardner, Maghoma; Jutkiewicz

GK/Defence

David Stockdale produced his best display for many weeks at QPR on Saturday, about the only player to do so. He's not been a guaranteed selection of late but it would seem odd to drop him after that.

Defensively Wes Harding probably had his most difficult afternoon in a Blues shirt at Loftus Road and you'd be foolish to ignore the threat posed by Ryan Sessegnon. Time for Maxime Colin to come back to his more customary position and for Jonathan Grounds to return at left back.

In the middle Harlee Dean has probably been the pick of the central defenders - and as one of the more vocal leaders in the squad he needs to come back in. I'd potentially have Paul Robinson on the bench as well - and not for sentimental purposes.

Midfield

This is where the entertain/contain issue has to be reconciled. I guess you are compelled to do both.

A full house won't allow a Wolves-style, six-at-the-back type set-up - yet there has to be some recognition of the opposition, so there's a compromise.

The wingers stay as they are, with Maghoma having to help out with Ryan Fredericks, while the three central midfielders allows Maikel Kieftenbeld to come across and help out Jota and Colin on the right.

Blues have to use the ball better, which is what brings Craig Gardner back into the starting line-up, David Davis has a big role to play, hassling Kevin McDonald out of possession and linking up with the striker when Blues have the ball.

Attack

Che Adams just didn't show enough at QPR even though he scored. I think Jutkiewicz can cause the Fulham central defenders problems, but it's imperative he's given support. Gallagher, Adams and Jeremie Boga - who missed a penalty at Craven Cottage - all on the bench.

Fabb Future

Diego Fabbrini has told the Spanish media that he hopes to stay at Real Oviedo this summer.

The Italian's season-long loan from Birmingham City is due to expire at the end of the campaign, but Fabbrini is keen to extend his stay.

The 27-year-old playmaker appears to have found a home in Spain, despite rupturing his anterior cruciate knee ligament in one of his first training sessions following his summer switch.

Fabbrini underwent an operation before making a miraculous recovery (as shown in the video at the top of the page) which saw him back in Oviedo's first team by early February.

One-time Italy international Fabbrini has made 12 appearances in total for the Spanish Segunda Division and wants to extend his stay in Asturias.

He said: "I would like to continue another year at Oviedo, I feel good, and my family too, and that's what I value most.

"I only think about finishing the season in the best way, because it's an important campaign after the injury. We'll see, I have not talked to anyone."

Fabbrini, a £1.5million signing from Watford, joined Blues in 2016 following a successful loan spell.

Gary Rowett quickly grew tired of Fabbrini's antics and his successor Gianfranco Zola didn't want him as Blues fought relegation last season.

Fabbrini linked up with Spezia on loan for the second half of last season before returning to the club in July. Fabbrini joined the squad on their pre-season tour of Austria but Harry Redknapp wasn't overly keen on him either.

One manager who still has time for Fabbrini is Aitor Karanka, who coached him briefly during a loan spell at Middlesbrough.

And it was Karanka, now manager at Nottingham Forest, who convinced Fabbrini to join Oviedo.

Fabbrini said: "He told me it was a good choice, that it was a very good team, a record of the First Division.

"I thought it was a good opportunity. After three years in England I wanted to try a new experience, I knew very little about the club, so I informed myself on the internet.

"To know something you have to experience it, you can not make a previous idea, I only understood how football is lived here when I arrived in Oviedo."



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-fulham-survival-sunday-14608958

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Inside St. Andrew's

Birmingham City fan and Bluescast co-host Ben Tyler looks ahead to what promises to be an exciting final day in the Championship.

How would you sum up Birmingham's season?

It's been another rollercoaster season for us, but then you would never expect anything else where Blues is concerned. The season started with plenty of hope and optimism with Harry Redknapp at the helm, which quickly diminished after his sudden dismissal, before a turgid five months of Steve Cotterill - with some real desperate moments for the club and the fans to grin and bear. But since Garry Monk's arrival, there's been a restoration of faith in the club from the fans, and the football is reflective of the rise in confidence around St. Andrews. Thanks to Garry Monk, we've still got a prayer of staying up this season.

Do you expect you'll stay up?

I think we've just about done enough to stay up. The timing of the managerial change has just about been made at the right time like it was last year, but that doesn't mean Blues fans have been able to sleep easy and it'll still be a nervy one on Sunday. Thankfully, the other sides who need results also have tough games, but I'd rather we settled things ourselves and got the result needed to secure our safety regardless of the other results; which would be a win in front of a sell-out crowd.

It sounds like you're a big fan of Garry Monk?

We couldn't have asked for a more refreshing change at the club. Monk and his backroom staff have bought into the club and instantly established a connection with the fans, so it's no surprise to see the style of play and the quality of football improving straight away – even when the results haven't quite been there. But the general consensus is that if we manage to stay up, we genuinely have reason to be excited for next season when Monk has a full pre-season to shape the squad to his liking – but then we said exactly the same thing last season with Redknapp in charge!

What style of play has he implemented?

We've seen a much more attacking mentality at St. Andrews, with plenty of focus on wing play which has brought the best out of Jota – who's looked a different player altogether since Garry Monk's arrival; and Jacques Maghoma – who's arguably been our player of the season. I think we can expect Blues to stay true to the 4-4-2 formation we've largely used under Monk on Sunday, and although we'll have less of the ball, that plays into our hands quite well as the crowd will get riled up when those opportunities arise to break forward.

Who have been your standout performers?

As mentioned before, Jacques Maghoma has been a different quality altogether this season and without the moments of brilliance that he's provided at times, we'd be a lot worse off at this point. Sam Gallagher and Lukas Jutkiewicz have had their streaks of good form, but the big buzz at the moment is surrounding our young right-back Wes Harding – who's made that position his own since Monk arrived in March, so much so that Carl Jenkinson on-loan from Arsenal hasn't had a sniff of the first-team since.

David Stockdale was a real fan favourite at Craven Cottage – how's he fared?

He, like most of our squad, has had a mixed season, but there's no doubting his quality in between the posts and some of the saves he's pulled off have been astonishing. We've been blessed with some great keepers down the years and he has the potential to join that list going forward if he remains consistent. He's taken well to the fans too which is always important, and was one of the best for communicating with the fans when results were really bleak.

Which Fulham players are you concerned about?

Stopping Aleksandar Mitrović in the form he's in is going to be a big ask, and that's even before we've dealt with Tom Cairney – who's a player most Premier League teams would be lucky to have in their squad, let alone at this level. Ryan Sessegnon didn't do too much when he played at St. Andrews last season, but he's improved an incredible amount since then and to record the stats he has at his age is scary.

What sort of game are you anticipating?

I think there'll be a lot of intensity and it should be an end-to-end game, both sides need to win for differing reasons so there isn't a lack of incentive for each team to go for it. It's just a question of which side manages to take their chances, as both teams are capable of creating them. Harlee Dean coming back from suspension is a massive boost for us, we need him to be on his game as I suspect he's going to be kept busy at the weekend.

Can you recommend a good pub for away fans?

The Dragon Inn on Hurst Street in the Chinese Quarter is a safe bet. The police usually escort away fans there, but Blues fans are welcoming when you bump into us en route to the ground so there's no worries there.

What score prediction are you going for?

It's a huge ask against a team as good as Fulham, but with the sell-out crowd which should get the place rocking, it gives us half a chance of getting a result. I think whichever way the game goes, it'll be settled by the odd goal, so I'm going for a 2-1 victory for Blues. I know Fulham need the win to try and go up automatically, but if it's any solace, I hope you win in the play-off final against Villa – that way everyone is happy!



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/03/inside-st-andrews

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Forget Gayle: Fulham need to seal these 3 attacker deals instead

A big weekend awaits Fulham as they travel to Birmingham City with a shot at automatic promotion.

It won't be easy, though, with their hosts battling for their lives down at the bottom of the league.

If they can better Cardiff City's result on the day, though, they will go up automatically and that is all Slavisa Jokanovic and co. will be thinking about right now.

Away from the club, though, the transfer rumours are beginning to pick up and, according to the Sun, the Lilywhites are looking into trying to sign both Dwight Gayle and Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Mitrovic, of course, has proven a sensation at the club since arriving on loan and so fans would love to see him join permanently.

Are there other options the club should consider to Gayle, though? We examine three...

Charlie Austin

Austin is a proven player at the top level and if Southampton go down and Fulham go up, it's a deal that could really happen.

Of course, he has ties to QPR but if he starts banging them in like he did at Loftus Road that would soon be forgotten.

Injuries remain an issue but when fit he could forge quite the partnership with Mitrovic or, indeed, offer some real competition.

Bobby Reid

Reid has been excellent this season for Bristol City and that surely means that a fair few clubs will be looking to get a deal set-up for him.

Certainly, he looks as though he could make the step up to the Premier League and with Fulham that is still possible for next season.

He's sharp and quick and could buzz around Mitrovic who holds the ball up very well.

Che Adams

Adams might not be the first name to everyone's lips but he is a good young player with plenty of potential.

This season he has struggled but so has most of his team and we shouldn't forget his form last year when he was superb.

Slavisa Jokanovic is the kind of manager young players can really learn from and signing Adams might end up proving a very shrewd move.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/forget-gayle-fulham-need-to-seal-these-3-attacker-deals-instead/

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Aleksandar Mitrovic could win back-to-back Player of the Month awards as prolific form continues

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez sent Aleksandar Mitrovic on loan to Championship side Fulham in January


Aleksandar Mitrovic in action for Fulham (Image: Getty Images Europe)

On-loan Newcastle United forward Aleksandar Mitrovic could win back-to-back Championship Player of the Month awards after being nominated once again.

The in-form striker has scored 14 goals in his last 15 games for club and country, including netting five in six matches for Fulham last month.

In April, Mitrovic also picked up two man-of-the-match awards, while he provided an assist as well as five strikes of his own for the Cottagers - and he also netted the winner against Newcastle's rivals Sunderland in a 2-1 victory last Friday.

The 23-year-old lifted the second-tier Player of the Month accolade for March after netting five goals in as many games for Fulham, and he could retain the trophy for April.

Mitrovic has played a key role in helping the Cottagers mount a serious automatic-promotion challenge, with the west London club just one point behind second-placed Cardiff City heading into the final day of the Championship campaign on Sunday.

On the EFL's official website, the Football League sum up another excellent month for Mitrovic: "A second successive nomination for March's winner.

"Scored in five of his six games, including the winners against Sheffield Wednesday and Sunderland.

"As well as his all-round contribution, his passion for the club as a loan player is striking."

The other nominees for the April award are Aston Villa forward - and former Sunderland loanee - Lewis Grabban, Hull City winger Harry Wilson and Middlesbrough defender Daniel Ayala. The winner will be announced on Friday.

But Mitrovic has a decent chance of retaining his award - and his prolific form appears to have convinced Fulham to make an attempt to sign the striker permanently this summer.

A national-media report earlier this week claimed the Cottagers not only want to sign Mitrovic - who should be available for around £20million - from Newcastle, but also his Magpies team-mate Dwight Gayle, who Fulham have held a long-term interest in.



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aleksandar-mitrovic-could-win-back-14608947

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Luca's England Call Up

Fulham Academy goalkeeper Luca Ashby-Hammond has been called up by Steve Cooper to represent England Under-17s at the Euros this summer.

The Young Lions kick-off the competition on Friday evening when they face Israel at Chesterfield FC's Proact Stadium.

And Cooper has selected his 20-man group for the tournament, which is being held at six different venues across the Midlands and South Yorkshire.

Ashby-Hammond featured in Cooper's team earlier this year when he was invited to the Algarve Tournament, as England prepared with a series of games against the likes of Brazil, Netherlands, Germany and Portugal since last August.

England head into the tournament hoping to go one further than last year when they lost on penalties to Spain in the Final and to repeat the success of 2010 and 2014 when England were crowned U17 champions. 

Following Friday's opening game, England face Italy at Walsall FC at 3pm on Monday 7 May before their final group match against Switzerland takes place at Rotherham United on Thursday 10 May.

Tickets for Friday's game are now limited with the last few tickets available at Chesterfield FC on the night, but tickets for the Italy and Switzerland games are on sale for just £5 for adults and £2.50 for U17s and prices for other games are available from £4 and £2. 

Find out more on the U17 Euro competition home page.

The squad

Goalkeepers: Luca Ashby-Hammond (Fulham), Marcus Dewhurst (Sheffield United), Adam Desbois (Training GK - Reading)

Defenders: Ajibola Alese (West Ham United), Dylan Crowe (Ipswich Town), Vontae Daley-Campbell (Arsenal), Ethan Laird (Manchester United), Nat Ogbeta (Manchester City), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

Midfielders: Tino Anjorin (Chelsea), Trae Coyle (Arsenal), Matty Daly (Huddersfield Town), Elijah Dixon-Bonner (Liverpool), Tommy Doyle (Manchester City), Jimmy Garner (Manchester United)

Forwards: Xavier Amaechi (Arsenal), Arvin Appiah (Nottingham Forest), Folarin Balogun (Arsenal), Bobby Duncan (Unattached), Tyreece John-Jules (Arsenal), Rayhaan Tulloch (West Bromwich Albion)



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/03/lucas-england-call-up

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Birmingham star v Fulham ace: The two midfielders who'll be pivotal in an important end of the season clash

Fulham and Birmingham both need results in this match for completely different reasons.

The Cottagers have aspirations of finishing in the second automatic promotion even at this stage of the season, but they will be reliant on Cardiff dropping points as well as a victory in this match.

On the other hand, Birmingham need at least a draw to guarantee safety. Therefore, this won't be a pointless end of the season match like some of the other games.

Maikel Kieftenbeld and Kevin McDonald both anchor their teams, but they have slightly different responsibilities which reflect the differences in style of play between the two sides.

The Fulham midfielder plays a key role in build-up and spreading play in order to keep the opposition shape moving so that the Cottagers can create openings through which to progress and create chances in the final third. This can be seen with his average of 64.1 passes per game as well as 3.5 long balls for a total of 85.6% average pass success per game. He also occasionally takes advantage of the openings himself sometimes with 0.5 key passes per game.

In contrast, Kieftenbeld has more of a traditional defensive midfield role because his priority is breaking up opposition play which is also based on the fact that the opposition have usually controlled possession against the Blues, whereas, Fulham force their possession style on the opponent.

The Dutch midfielder is worse than McDonald in terms of the four statistics mentioned above. However, he does average 2.4 tackles per game in comparison to 2 per game for the Scottish midfielder. Surprisingly, he also has more assists with three, whereas McDonald only has one, but he does have three goals and Kieftenbeld is yet to score.

The Verdict

Both play key roles for their teams, but McDonald is the better midfielder of the two. His composure ensures that everything runs smoothly for Fulham, so they can sit in the opposition half and the star players such as Tom Cairney and Ryan Sessegnon can thrive.

He is the ideal defensive midfielder for the side, and his presence should help the Cottagers overcome the Blues, but it probably won't be enough to secure the automatic promotion spot so they will have to go through the play-offs for a second time. Birmingham are unlikely to go down even if they do lose this game.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/birmingham-star-v-fulham-ace-the-two-midfielders-wholl-be-pivotal-in-an-important-end-of-the-season-clash/

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Marcus Bettinelli on West Ham radar as David Moyes looks for new No 1 with Joe Hart and Adrian failing to convince

    David Moyes has rotated between Joe Hart and Adrian in goal this season
    Hart's loan will expire at the end of the season and West Ham want a new keeper
    They will target Marcus Bettinelli regardless of whether Fulham are promoted

West Ham have begun the search for a new No 1, with Fulham goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli a leading contender to fill the void.

David Moyes has alternated between Joe Hart and Adrian in goal this season; neither completely convincing the Hammers boss.

And West Ham have started the process of trying to sign a new custodian this summer with Bettinelli emerging as serious candidate.


Fulham goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli is high on West Ham's wishlist as they eye a new keeper

The 25-year-old has impressed for the Cottagers in their race for promotion this season, and his performances have caught West Ham's eyes.

It remains to be seen whether Fulham would even entertain letting the former England Under-21 star leave this summer, particularly if they secure a Premier League return.

Nevertheless, West Ham are set to launch a move for Bettinelli regardless of Fulham's league status ahead of next term.

Bettinelli is likely to move onto England manager Gareth Southgate's radar once he makes the step up into top-flight football.


Joe Hart has made a string of errors in his season on loan at West Ham from Manchester City

England scouts have made regular checks on Bettinelli this season with a view to a potential call-up if he is playing in the Premier League next term.

Indeed, Bettinelli's stats this season make for impressive reading; eclipsing some of England's current senior internationals.

He has kept more clean sheets than Jack Butland, Fraser Forster and Hart so far this season, and conceded considerably less goals than the established trio.

Similarly, his saves per goal ratio and distribution accuracy is far greater than the aforementioned threesome.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5687401/Marcus-Bettinelli-West-Ham-radar-David-Moyes-looks-new-No-1.html#ixzz5EVnXf2No
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Recognition For Maunders

Fulham's Player Engagement Manager Mark Maunders was honoured at the Premier Sports Network's 'Behind the Scenes' awards ceremony on Wednesday.

Mark recently celebrated his 20th anniversary at Craven Cottage, and was presented with the 'Above and Beyond' award at the conference in Manchester to mark his achievements with, and contributions to, the Whites.

"I think it was in recognition really of me having 20 years at the Club," Mark told fulhamfc.com. "I was put forward and nominated by my peers, anonymously, to receive it, so I'm really honoured and I really appreciate it.

"Fulham, as a club, have always been very supportive of my role. Player care is really important to Fulham, making sure the guys are looked after.

"Being a pioneering club they're always looking for new ways to move the department forwards and progress, and make sure our guys get the best support that they can from the Club."

Everyone at Fulham would like to congratulate Mark on both the very deserved award, and on completing 20 years of service at the Club.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/03/mark-maunders-award

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Fulham bookies' favourites to sign Sheffield Wednesday's Fernando Forestieri; he would be perfect acquisition

Sheffield Wednesday's Fernando Forestieri would be perfect for Fulham.

According to the transfer specials at bookmaker Bet Victor, Fulham are favourites to sign Sheffield Wednesday favourite Fernando Forestieri this summer with odds of 4/1.

The Cottagers are currently in the race for automatic promotion to the Premier League, as they sit a point behind promotion rivals Cardiff City in second place with just one game remaining.

Fulham have a superior goal difference, so they need to better Cardiff's result, but with the Bluebirds at home to Reading on the final day, it's looking like the Cottagers may have to settle for a place in the playoffs.

Whether Fulham get promoted to the Premier League or not will have a bearing on their transfer targets this summer, but regardless of what division they find themselves in next term, going in for Forestieri is a no-brainer.

Staying in the Championship:

Should Fulham miss out on promotion to the Premier League, it's highly likely they will see talented youngster Ryan Sessegnon leave for the top-flight with several clubs interested in his services.

The 17-year-old has been linked with the likes of Manchester United for a whopping £40 million (the Mirror), and should he leave the Whites will need to find a way of replacing his 15 goals and six assists so far.

Forestieri would be an excellent replacement, considering he is by far and away one of the best attacking players in the Championship having scored 31 goals and grabbed 11 assists in 70 league starts for the Owls.

The 28-year-old is familiar with Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic having played under the Serb at Watford, and he would be an affordable option with a Sessegnon sale creating plenty of funds available.

Promotion to the Premier League:

Promotion to the Premier League would see Fulham set their sights on a higher calibre of player, but Forestieri has certainly done enough at Wednesday to deserve a crack at top-flight football.

The West London club would be wise to sign the Championship's best players to strengthen their squad, and Forestieri would provide healthy competition to the club's forward ranks even at the highest level.

Wednesday will be looking to make some changes this summer under new boss Jos Luhukay, and if they are tight to the Financial Fair Play limit, cashing in on their prized asset may not be such a bad idea.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/05/03/tt-fulham-favourites-to-sign-wednesday-favourite-he-would-be-per/

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Harlee Dean back in contention for Birmingham's crunch clash with Fulham

Birmingham will have Harlee Dean available for their crunch game against Fulham as they battle against relegation.
The defender has been banned for the last two games, including last weekend's 3-1 defeat at QPR.
Marc Roberts has been deputising but could now drop out.
Blues are two points above the Sky Bet Championship relegation zone, although with a superior goal difference to 22nd-place Burton, a point should be good enough to survive.
Fulham are hopeful Matt Targett will be fit for their promotion-deciding trip.
The defender limped off in Friday's 2-1 win over Sunderland with an ankle injury.
Striker Floyd Ayite has missed four games with a hamstring injury, as has on-loan Liverpool frontman Sheyi Ojo with an unspecified knock.
Fulham need to better Cardiff's result against Reading to claim automatic promotion.


http://www.espn.co.uk/football/preview?gameId=483151

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Blackburn fans would consider Fulham deal for key man if it came to it

Blackburn Rovers are on their way up this year and will be looking forward to being back in the Championship.

A superb run of form that combined attacking ruthlessness and defensive strength ensured that their stay in the third tier was as short as it possibly could be.

For sure, then, they'll be looking to make sure they don't return any time soon and keeping Bradley Dack will surely be central to those plans.

Keeping him, though, will be easier said than done when you look at the impact he has had this season.

Certainly, he has really caught the eye with goals and assists aplenty and so that got us thinking.

We asked Rovers fans, then, which club they'd like Dack to join in the summer if he had to leave from our four options.

Of course, Rovers fans will want Dack to stay put far past this window but there is a chance that clubs will look to make an offer for him.

It seems of the four we mentioned, too, it's Fulham who might stand the best chance of getting him in.

Certainly, he'd make a strong attack even better if he did move to Craven Cottage.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/blackburn-fans-would-consider-fulham-deal-for-key-man-if-it-came-to-it/

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West Ham will have one shot at getting Bettinelli

OPINION

West Ham will only get one chance to sign goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli from Fulham as the talented shot-stopper is destined to have a great career in the game.

The Daily Mail reported on Thursday that the 6ft 3in keeper had emerged as a serious candidate to be the Hammers new No.1 for next season.

The newspaper claimed that the Hammers had begun the hunt for a new goalkeeper as David Moyes had been left unconvinced by both his current options Joe Hart and Adrian due to their displays this season.

It is believed that the London-based club will move for Bettinelli even if the 25-year-old's current side, Fulham, join the Hammers in the Premier League next season.

Signing Bettinelli would be a blinding bit of business by the Hammers as the keeper has been in superb form this season in order to help his side have a chance of reaching England's top-flight.

The 25-year-old has made 26 appearances this season, conceding 17 goals and keeping 12 clean sheets, and Hammers fans at this time can only dream of a capable goalkeeper such as Bettinelli.

In fact the Fulham keeper's stats are so good this season, he has kept more clean sheets than Jack Butland, Fraser Forster and Hart, who are all contention to go to the World Cup with England in the summer.

While Bettinelli is a long-shot to feature for England's senior team in Russia, the Daily Mail claim that England scouts have made regular checks on Bettinelli this season with a view to a potential call-up if he starts to feature in the Premier League soon.

The colossus player also has a greater saves per goal ratio and distribution accuracy than his international rivals, which shows how his stats blow the experienced trio out of the water.

Now while the Hammers will reportedly move for Bettinelli, whatever league he is in, their only opportunity to successfully capture him will be in the summer if Fulham stay down.

The 25-year-old will stay at Craven Cottage, he's contracted to 2020 and there's an option to extend, as he has proven time and time again that he's passionate about the club he has spent his entire career at.

However the 25-year-old knows what playing in the Premier League can do for his England chances and will leave Fulham if it comes to choosing between them and top-flight football.

There will be plenty of Premier League teams plotting swoops right now in case that situation develops, not just West Ham, and if the Hammers miss out this summer, that won't ever get his signature.

The Premier League club, who sign him, will be smart enough to tie him down to a long-term deal and not let any club have a sniff.

Therefore the Hammers only have one chance to sign Bettinelli, which will be this summer, or otherwise they'll miss out completely on the keeper who blows his compatriots out the water with his stats.



https://thisisfutbol.com/2018/05/blogs/premier-league/west-ham-will-have-one-shot-at-getting-bettinelli/

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Wolves should revive PL career of £7.2m-rated Fulham target this summer

The Wolverhampton Wanderers fans in the Transfer Tavern are looking forward to the new season which will see them return to the Premier League for the first time since 2012.

Nuno Espirito Santo has masterminded his side's title-winning season in the Championship in a manner which suggests the club will have no problem adapting to life in the top-flight next season. However, that does not imply that the club can rest on their laurels during the transfer window as they will need to strengthen throughout the squad in order to steer clear of a relegation battle.

Within their Championship campaign the club have been lacking the presence of a prolific striker to spearhead their attack, so that's certainly an area which they should focus on during the summer. With that in mind, Wolves should go head-to-head with Fulham to secure the signature of Aleksandar Mitrovic (valued at £7.2 million by Transfermarkt).

The Serbian international is currently on loan at the Cottagers from Newcastle United after a disappointing spell with the Magpies which initially promised so much. Disagreements with the club's hierarchy and a general attitude problem seemed to deter his progress in the North-East, but since Mitrovic moved to Fulham he has begun to finally live up to his huge potential.

Since arriving at Craven Cottage, Mitrovic has been in prolific form with 12 goals to his name from just 16 appearances for the promotion-chasing side. Considering the extent of Mitrovic's impact at Fulham, it's hardly surprising they're interested in turning his deal into a permanent one according to The Sun, however, failure to achieve promotion would certainly pave the way for Wolves to secure his signature.

Mitrovic is exactly what Wolves need to survive in the Premier League; he possesses a clinical instinct in the penalty area, a determined attitude, the potential to develop and a desire to prove his doubters wrong, so the club simply must do everything their power to sign him this summer, even if Fulham achieve promotion to the top-flight.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premiership/wolves-should-revive-pl-career-of-7-2m-rated-fulham-target-this-summer/

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David Prutton's final-day Sky Bet EFL predictions

David Prutton returns with his Sky Bet EFL predictions ahead of the final weekend of the season, but who is he tipping for victory? Find out here...
Sky Bet Championship (Sunday 12.30pm)

Cardiff v Reading - Live on Sky Sports Football from 12pm

It's very simple for Cardiff. Beat Reading and they are in the Premier League. There will be half an eye on what is happening at Fulham but it is very much in their hands and Neil Warnock will have his side fully focused on their own task.

Reading have somehow managed to get themselves dragged back into a relegation battle and they need at least a point here to guarantee survival. This is a home win for me, but I think results elsewhere will save the Royals from the drop.

Prutton predicts: 2-0 (5/1 with Sky Bet)

Birmingham v Fulham

As much as Slavisa Jokanovic and Co would like to, Fulham cannot control events at the Cardiff City Stadium and all they can do is win their own game and hope for a bit of rub.

Birmingham also just need a point to ensure their Championship status, but Fulham are far too strong at the moment and I cannot see them slipping up on the final day. Away win, but it is looking like the play-offs again for the Cottagers. The Blues should be safe, but it will be a nervy afternoon for them.

Prutton predicts: 1-2 (7/1 with Sky Bet)

Bolton v Nottingham Forest

It is amazing to think Bolton beat Aston Villa around six weeks ago to move six points clear of the relegation zone. It seemed so likely then that Phil Parkinson's side were going to edge towards survival.

Since then, however, the Trotters have picked up just a single point in seven games. They are the only side in the scrap to stay up on Sunday facing a team with nothing to play for in Nottingham Forest, but they just don't look like winning a game at the moment. I'm backing a draw that will send Bolton down.

Prutton predicts: 1-1 (11/2 with Sky Bet)

Derby v Barnsley

What a massive win that was for Barnsley against Brentford last week. It gave the Tykes real hope of avoiding the drop at a time when they looked doomed.

Derby realistically only need a point to book their place in the play-offs, but playing for a draw is not always easy. Preston will be desperate for the Rams to slip up, and I just have a feeling that Barnsley will edge this one. Although I think Gary Rowett's side will finish in the top six regardless.

Prutton predicts: 0-1 (12/1 with Sky Bet)

Preston v Burton

This is a proper must-win game at Deepdale. Preston have nothing to lose in going for it because it's their only chance of leap-frogging Derby into sixth, and Burton really need to go for the win.

A draw could keep Albion up but they would be relying far too much on results to go their way around them. They are on a high at the moment after three straight wins and this should be a cracker on Sunday, but I think these two sides will end up sharing the points, and that would help no one.

Prutton predicts: 1-1 (13/2 with Sky Bet)



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/34681/11348676/david-pruttons-final-day-sky-bet-efl-predictions

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When Fulham's dreams of promotion died in a game that never ended

Fulham looked certain to be promoted to the top flight in the 1982-83 season but they lost four of their last five games and were left cursing the final 78 seconds of the campaign


Fans invaded the pitch at Derby before the season had ended. Photograph: Raymonds Press Agency

Sometimes it is hard to be a football fan. Take the example of Fulham in the 1982-83 season. Promoted to the Second Division in the previous campaign, the club were flying under the management of Malcolm Macdonald. With a team full of quality players – keeper Gerry Payton; defenders Tony Gale, Roger Brown and Jeff Hopkins; midfielders Ray Houghton, Robert Wilson, Sean O'Driscoll and Ray Lewington; and strikers Gordon Davies and Dean Coney – back-to-back promotions were a serious possibility.

They played an entertaining brand of football and put four goals past Bolton, Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Grimsby and Wolves in the first three months of the season. At the start of 1983, Fulham sat in the final promotion spot, with only Wolves and QPR above them. When they beat Grimsby 4-0 for the second time that season at Craven Cottage in March, the club were seven points clear of Leicester, with a game in hand, and seemingly destined for a return to the top flight after a 15-year absence.

Leicester would not go away, though. In fact, Gordon Milne's team put together a 15-match unbeaten run at the end of the season to cranked up the pressure on Fulham. Still, with five matches of the season to go, Fulham held a five-point advantage. They should have been promoted. But things fell apart for the Cottagers spectacularly in the last three weeks of the season.

"It was a mixture of inexperience and squad size," recalled Lewington. "We had one or two key players out for games and we started to stutter – and we did have a hard run-in." Losing at home against Leicester did not help matters and further defeats at Sheffield Wednesday and QPR took Fulham out of the promotion positions for the first time since November.

With two games to go, Leicester and Fulham were level on points but the Foxes had a superior goal difference. They won at Oldham in their penultimate game of the campaign – despite the absence of Division Two top scorer Gary Lineker – so only had to beat relegation-threatened Burnley at Filbert Street in their final match to guarantee their place in the top flight.


Ray Houghton goes close in Fulham's 1-0 defeat to Leicester City in April 1983. Photograph: Keith Waldegrave/ANL/Rex/Shutterstock

Yet there were a few twists in the tale on the final day of the season – and beyond. Try as they might, Leicester missed chance after chance and just could not break down Burnley. They could only draw 0-0, so a win would take Fulham up.

But they were not having things their own way either. Derby were not sure of their place in the division and were in fighting for their lives. Their goalkeeper, Steve Cherry, denied Coney in the first half with a great save and then, in the 71st minutes, a superb volley from Bobby Davison gave Derby a 1-0 lead, edging Derby closer to safety and denting Fulham's promotion hopes.

And then the trouble began. "I looked at the clock on the ground when the goal went in and noticed fans coming on to the pitch then," recalled Fulham midfielder Robert Wilson. "They simply kept coming off the terraces and it became very difficult to play. It was very intimidating."

The last 10 minutes were played out amid chaotic scenes. Derby fans lined the pitch, many spilling on to the playing area, with one supporter even running on to pat Cherry on the back after he had tipped over a late effort from Ray Houghton. Despite announcements over the PA system, the fans would not be moved. One even kicked out at Wilson as he dribbled the ball down the left wing. "My instinct was to have a go at the fellow but then I realised it might lead to a riot."

And then the trouble began. "I looked at the clock on the ground when the goal went in and noticed fans coming on to the pitch then," recalled Fulham midfielder Robert Wilson. "They simply kept coming off the terraces and it became very difficult to play. It was very intimidating."

The last 10 minutes were played out amid chaotic scenes. Derby fans lined the pitch, many spilling on to the playing area, with one supporter even running on to pat Cherry on the back after he had tipped over a late effort from Ray Houghton. Despite announcements over the PA system, the fans would not be moved. One even kicked out at Wilson as he dribbled the ball down the left wing. "My instinct was to have a go at the fellow but then I realised it might lead to a riot."

Macdonald announced the club would again appeal the decision and cancelled a proposed team holiday to Majorca to keep his players in full training. But Fulham's fate was sealed a few days later. Their 38-page document was not enough to reverse the original decision, the Football League quoting regulation 19, which referred to their "absolute discretion". Fulham briefly considered taking the matter to court but soon admitted defeat. "It just faded away and it was a terrible way to end the season," said Lewington. "The whole last month of the season was terrible, climaxing on that day."

Things were never the same again under Macdonald. The club struggled the following season and he resigned in April. He never did get to manage a team in the top flight. The agony in Derby was the closest he ever came.



https://www.theguardian.com/football/that-1980s-sports-blog/2018/may/03/fulham-promotion-leicester-derby-football-league

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Who will occupy the final automatic promotion place in the Championship?

With just one more gameweek to go in the regular season of the English Championship there is still a lot to play for at the top; especially for Fulham and Cardiff City. Both teams are vying to play Premier League football once again but only one can get their without the drama of the play offs. The question is will it be Fulham or Cardiff?

With Wolverhampton Wanderers already confirmed champions and looking for 100 points, both Cardiff and Fulham could break the 90 point barrier with a win on the weekend. However, that scenario would not be good enough for Fulham who currently sit in 3rd place. So how could it play out?

Here are the scenarios for both sides. If both teams lose then Cardiff are promoted automatically, but if Fulham win and Cardiff lose then they leapfrog the Welsh side. If both teams draw then it's the Bluebirds back in the Premier League for the first time since 2014 but if they draw and Fulham win then the London club are guaranteed to be playing top flight football.

So all the cards are pretty much in the hands of Neil Warnock and his side, who face relegation threatened Reading. They do come into the game with a 2-0 win against Hull City and will feel positive that they can pick up another win especially playing at home. Their home form has been sensational this year and they have only lost three games at the Cardiff City Stadium all season. Reading will be concerned as they have not won in four games and have conceded ten goals in those four games.



https://www.sportscourant.com/who-will-occupy-the-final-automatic-promotion-place-in-the-championship.html

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Wolves Target 28 Y/O Fulham Defensive Ace: Where Does He Fit Into Nuno Santo's Plan?

Wolverhampton Wanderers are being linked to Fulham's fullback Ryan Fredericks. Fulham are currently third, one point behind second-placed Cardiff City. With just one game to go, a slipup from either of the teams can put the other in the second spot, which will ensure a direct qualification to the Premier League.

The former Spurs player has been featuring regularly for the Cottagers this term as he has made 43 appearances in all competitions. Fredericks has played a huge part in Fulham's push for Premier League promotion and the fact that his contract is expiring this summer, he is bound to be linked with other clubs. Wolves, on the other hand, are sitting pretty at the top of the table as they have secured their promotion and wrapped up the title well in advance.

The West Midlands club have been head and shoulders above the other teams in the Championship and a lot of credit for that goes to Nuno Espirito Santo. The former Porto boss has brought a new sense of hope among the Wolves fans and backed by new owners, they are preparing to take on the Premier League opponents next season. The owners and the manager will know that the top flight won't be a cakewalk and they need to improve their squad if they intend on staying there for years to come.

Chances of Fredericks' move to Wolves will certainly reduce if Fulham themselves manage to secure the promotion to the top flight. It will be interesting to see whether Fredericks will fit into Santo's plan as he traditionally uses a back three. It might well happen that he can be used as a right midfielder.

If Fulham gets promoted, they will certainly try to keep their core players and it might happen that Fredericks is given a new contract with the Cottagers. Fredericks has also been linked with a move to Arsenal and if a big club like them come into the picture then both Fulham and Wolves won't be able to keep their man.

Fredericks is known for his pace and trickery down the right flank and he has also featured in the right midfield department. However, sometimes his decision making in the final third is not up to the mark and that is why he is primarily used as a right back. It will be interesting to see where Santo will use him or change his preferred tactics to accommodate the English defender if they make a move for him in the transfer market.



http://the4thofficial.net/2018/05/wolves-target-28-yo-fulham-defensive-ace-fit-nuno-santos-plan/

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Where the promotion trophy Cardiff City and Fulham are battling for will actually be on Sunday

Plenty of first team players will miss out on a medal if Cardiff do claim automatic promotion against Reading on Sunday

The Championship's runner-up trophy will be in South Wales ahead of Cardiff City's crunch promotion clash with Reading on Sunday.

Neil Warnock's men would clinch their place in the promised land of the Premier League with a victory over Paul Clement's men this weekend, while they will also take second spot if they better or match Fulham's result with Birmingham City at St Andrew's.

And WalesOnline understands that the runner-up trophy will be in the Welsh capital on Sunday afternoon due to the fact that Cardiff are currently second in the league standings.

Wolves clinched the title following Fulham's 1-1 draw with Brentford at Craven Cottage in mid-April, with Nuno Espirito Santo's side handed the trophy after their 0-0 draw with Sheffield Wednesday at Molineux last time out.

But the battle for the second and final automatic promotion spot remains firmly alive ahead of the season's finale on Sunday.

It comes after Newcastle United and Brighton were both battling for the Championship title on the final day of the 2016-17 campaign.

And EFL chiefs opted to send replica trophies as well as winners' and runners-up' medals to both St James' Park and Villa Park as Newcastle took on Barnsley and Brighton faced Aston Villa.

Along with the runner-up trophy, Cardiff will also be in battle with Fulham for promotion winners' medals this weekend.

But a number of first team players will miss out on a medal due to the EFL's criteria on which players can receive the prizes.

They state that players must be named on the team sheet for 25 per cent or more of their side's league games in a season.

So players have to be included in the 18-man match day squad for at least 12 Championship fixtures over the course of a campaign to be eligible for a medal if their side gain promotion.

It means that the likes of Kadeem Harris, Rhys Healey and January recruit Armand Traore — who netted in the 2-0 win over Bolton in February — would all miss out on medals.

A record crowd will be in attendance at Cardiff City Stadium for Sunday's crunch promotion clash, with those who have left the club on loan including Omar Bogle and Lee Tomlin, in line to receive winners' medals if the Bluebirds can get the job done.

The players included in 12 or more league match day squads this season

Neil Etheridge, Brian Murphy, Lee Peltier, Joe Bennett, Sean Morrison, Bruno Manga, Jazz Richards, Sol Bamba, Greg Halford, Matt Connolly, Callum Paterson, Joe Ralls, Liam Feeney, Anthony Pilkington, Aron Gunnarsson, Nathaniel Mendez-Laing, Loic Damour, Craig Bryson, Marko Grujic, Junior Hoilett, Danny Ward, Kenneth Zohore, Yanic Wildschut, Gary Madine, Lee Tomlin, Omar Bogle.

The players NOT included in 12 or more league match day squads this season

Armand Traore, Kadeem Harris, Mark Harris, Frederic Gounongbe, Ibrahim Meite, Jamie Ward, Lee Camp, Stuart O'Keefe, Matty Kennedy, Rhys Healey.



https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cardiff-city-reading-fulham-birmingham-14611785

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Manager & Player of the Month!

Slaviša Jokanović and Aleksandar Mitrović have been named Sky Bet Championship Manager and Player of the Month, respectively.

Jokanović has been nominated every month this year, and in winning the accolade becomes the first Fulham boss since Roy Hodgson – more than eight years ago – to be presented with the trophy.

In February 2010 the Whites beat Portsmouth, Burnley and Birmingham City, and drew with Bolton Wanderers and Sunderland, accruing 11 points which saw Hodgson win his second Manager of the Month award of the season.

Jokanović's team in April 2018 ended up with an even better points per game ratio, winning five and drawing just one of our six fixtures – a run which ensured the battle for automatic promotion back to the Premier League will go down to the wire.

Many were hard fought games, with three of the victories coming by a one-goal margin. Millwall away was a highlight for Whites fans as the team withstood pressure in the first half to go on and end the Lions' 17-game unbeaten run in style with a 3-0 victory.

For Mitrović, it marks a second consecutive Player of the Month award, as he matched the five goals he netted in March with the same tally in April.

The striker began the month as he meant to go on, sweeping in the crucial second goal at home to Leeds United, before slamming a first time shot into the roof of the net to secure all three points at Hillsborough.

He then netted a variety of goals in our final three matches in April; a sublime curler on his weaker left foot against local rivals Brentford, an unstoppable rising strike at the Den, and a pinpoint downwards header in our most recent outing against Sunderland.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/04/double-win