Thursday Fulham Stuff (17/05/18)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Mitrovic and Sessegnon staying & a new left back - Fulham's transfer window priorities

We've taken a look at the priorities for Fulham this summer - regardless of whether it's Premier League or Championship football next season

Fulham are preparing for the second crack at promotion this season on the pitch, but plans will already be getting mapped out for the Summer Transfer Window.

It's a difficult one for the recruitment team at Fulham, led by Director of Football Operations, Tony Khan, to prepare for with the uncertainty of what division the side will be playing in.

Everyone hopes it will be the Premier League, and if it is, potential new signings that can help Fulham make an impact on the top flight will have already been sounded out, watched by the scouting department and had analysis ran on them by the other side of the recruitment team.

And if it is set to be another season in the Championship, players that can help the side make it third time lucky and get promotion next season will also have been watched, with lists made on who the side want.

But in between both of those sets of outcomes, there will be certain things that will be priorities in both eventualities, and we take a look at what we think would be high on the agenda when the window opens next month.

Signing Aleksandar Mitrovic

I think this will be high on the to-do list, regardless of what division Fulham find themselves playing in next season.

His loan signing was, potentially, one of the best deals of the season in a business sense and helped fire the side to going 23 unbeaten and challenging for the automatics.

12 goals in 17 appearances since the start of February is frightening form, and if he had been signed in the summer he'd probably be ending the season as the Championship's top scorer.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

He's perfect for Fulham and Fulham is perfect for him - under Slavisa Jokanovic, Mitrovic has thrived and most importantly, he's happy at the club.

Fulham haven't had a striker like the 23-year-old in a while, and if they were to sign him on a permanent, they'd continue to get the best out of him, whether that be in the Championship or in the Premier League.

Keeping hold of Ryan Sessegnon

It won't be a transfer window without endless speculation about the future of Fulham's wonderkid, Ryan Sessegnon.

In fact, I don't think the gossip has stopped since he broke through into the first team at Craven Cottage.

Nonetheless, holding onto him in January was a big statement of intent from Khan and Fulham and doing the same in the summer will give Fulham a big boost heading into the season.

At 17, there is no rush for Sessegnon to move on from Fulham and I think himself, the people around him and those at Fulham know that.


(Image: Stephen Pond/Getty Images)

If he stays at the club, he will play pretty much every game, and that is far more important at his age than playing for one of the so-called big clubs like Tottenham Hotspur or Manchester United.

He could have played over 100 games in the second tier of English football at the age of 18 - just think about that for a second.

It's a staggering accomplishment, and he's only going to get better and better.

Keeping hold of him in the summer will not only aid the squad's targets for coming season, but his price tag for when he does eventually move on will just keep getting higher and higher.

Solving the left back issue

We've seen how big a problem the left back role has been for Fulham this season.

Rafa Soares' signing was a poor one and it took until January for a suitable replacement for Scott Malone to be signed in Matt Targett.

But we saw what happens the side when he got injured, with the team looking unbalanced once more and forcing Sessegnon to play at left back to cover, when he is more use to the side further forward.

Solving the problem is key.

Firstly, signing Targett on a permanent would be one of the best bits of business the side can do, and with Southampton not having watched him when I spoke to him after the Sheffield Wednesday victory and their potential to be relegated, the possibility is there.

They also need to sign a back-up left back to add depth to that department - it's one where Fulham are very light and one where strength will need to be added.

A new goalkeeper

I think a new keeper will be a priority for Fulham in the summer - not because Marcus Bettinelli isn't good enough, but because I'm not too sure David Button has a future at the Cottage.

He lost his place at the end of last season and he lost his place this season - at 29-years-old he needs to be playing regularly.

I still like Button, it's no secret to anyone who has read my stuff for the past two seasons that I think he's a very good keeper and can do a job in the Championship, I just don't think he'll be replacing Bettinelli any time soon after the development the keeper has shown this campaign.

A new keeper will keep the pressure on Bettinelli to perform like he is performing, while also providing the depth needed if the side are in the Premier League.

More game time for their bright youth prospects

Obviously, if the side are promoted to the Premier League it's unlikely that any of their bright youth prospects will get playing time at the club, which is vital.

The likes of Matt O'Riley, Steven Sessegnon and Tayo Edun all need regular game time in order for them to meet their potential, and if they won't be getting that at Fulham then time away for them is vital.


Matt O'Riley in possession of the ball, pressured by Oliver Norwood (Image: Darren Pepe)

O'Riley has been with the senior squad for quite some time now but hasn't made the breakthrough yet, while Sessegnon has made the bench and Edun making his senior debut against Derby.

If it's to be the Championship, I think we'll see more of these youngsters next season but if Fulham do get promoted, finding them the right club to develop their careers for the season is vital.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/mitrovic-sessegnon-fulham-transfer-window-14625483

[WhiteJC]

 
Play-Off Final Tickets On Sale

Tickets for Fulham's Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Final against Aston Villa at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 26th May, kick-off 5pm are now on sale to 2017/18 Season Ticket Holders.

The Club has been allocated 38,144 tickets for the Final, with Fulham supporters located in the East End of Wembley Stadium.

Ticket prices for this match are listed below, which are divided into five pricing sections. Each category has a concession rate for 17-21 years, over 65s, and juniors aged 16 and under:

Category    Adult     17-21 Years   Over 65 / 16 and Under
1   £98   £73.50   £49
2   £76   £57   £38
3   £64   £48   £32
4     £52    £39    £26
5*    £36    £27    £18

*Only available in Level 5 (top tier of Wembley Stadium).

How to Buy

By phone: via Ticketmaster on 0844 453 9063 (closes daily at 8pm Monday-Friday and 6pm on weekends)

Calls cost 7p per minute plus your telephone company's access charge.

Online: www.eticketing.co.uk/fulhamfc (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

In order to purchase tickets online, supporters will need to log in to their accounts.

Fans are reminded that tickets will not be available to purchase over the counter from the Fulham Ticket Office at Craven Cottage.

Supporters are advised that tickets located in Level 5 (top tier) will be sold last, and will only become available once Levels 1 & 2 have sold out. Tickets are sold from North to South, with all rows numbered low to high – i.e. Row 1 is nearest the pitch. All price categories will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis and are subject to availability.

Aside from wheelchair disabled tickets and coach travel, there will be no sales from the Fulham Ticket Office for this match.

Instead, all supporters must purchase tickets directly from Ticketmaster, who will be selling tickets for this match on behalf of the Club.
On-Sale Dates

Tickets for the Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Final will go on sale with exclusive priority windows, subject to availability, as follows:

    10am, Wednesday 16th May - 2017/18 Season Ticket Holders – maximum 5 tickets per person
    10am, Thursday 17th May - 2018/19 Season Ticket Holders – maximum 5 tickets per person
    10am, Saturday 19th May – 2017/18 Members – maximum 5 tickets per person
    10am, Sunday 20th May - supporters with a previous Booking History – maximum 5 tickets per person

Family Area – There is a designated Family Area for Fulham supporters at Wembley Stadium, located in Blocks 105 to 108 – approx. 1,700 seats, price categories 3 and 4 - in the East End of the Stadium. Tickets in this area will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis, only to fans purchasing adult tickets with junior 16 years and under tickets.

Wheelchair Disabled Tickets - A number of Wheelchair and Personal Assistant tickets are available. These can be purchased directly from the Fulham Ticket Office phone line, and not from Ticketmaster. Supporters must call 0203 871 0810 (opt. 3) between Monday - Friday, 9am-5pm. The price charge to wheelchair patrons is equivalent to the relevant price for the area in which they're situated, with their personal assistants gaining access free of charge. Please note, proof of disability will need to be provided at the point of sale, if this has not previously been provided.

Ambulant Disabled Tickets – These can be purchased directly from Ticketmaster on 0333 003 5942 between Monday - Friday, 9am-5pm and Saturday – Sunday, 10am-2pm. Please note ambulant disabled tickets can only be purchased during the appropriate sales windows.

Coach Travel – A limited number of coaches will be available for supporters to purchase, departing from both Motspur Park and Craven Cottage. Prices will be £15 and £5 for adult and junior Season Ticket Holders respectively, and £18 and £8 for adult and junior non-Season Ticket Holders. Coach Travel can be purchased from the Fulham Ticket Office on 0203 871 0810 (opt. 3), between Monday - Friday, 9am-5pm.

Booking Fees - A £2.40 per ticket booking fee applies to all tickets, along with a £2.40 transaction fee per booking.

Postage – All tickets will be sent via First Class Post as standard, alternatively supporters can request Recorded Delivery at an additional charge.

No more than ten (10) tickets are permitted in any one transaction for supporters wishing to group tickets and be sat next to fellow Season Ticket Holders.
Important Information

Hospitality – Fans wishing to purchase Hospitality packages for Sky Bet Championship Final are required to buy directly from the Fulham FC Sales Team from 10am on Wednesday 16th May. Please note we only have a limited amount of packages available for this game, starting from £369 (inc VAT) per person. Supporters interested in purchasing can call 0203 871 0810 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) (Opt.1) or email [email protected]

Ticketmaster Customer Service – once purchased, should supporters have any queries regarding the dispatch of tickets, fans can contact a dedicated Ticketmaster enquiry line on 0333 003 5935 (lines open Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm). Calls are charged at a local rate. Please note, you will not be able to purchase tickets from this number.

16 Years and Under – All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Babies – Babies/babies in arms will be allowed entry but must have a valid ticket for themselves.

Client Reference Number – This is a unique digit number printed onto supporters' Season Ticket Cards or match tickets.

Parking – Parking for supporters and supporters' coaches can be purchased via www.wembleyofficialparking.com or 0208 903 6966. Coach parking is charged at £65.00 per coach and car parking is charged at £30.00 per car. Blue badge holders can purchase parking at a cost of £15 per space.

No Resale Of Tickets – It is an offence under Section 166 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, for any unauthorised person to sell tickets.

Fulham Football Club is carrying out the ticket selling instructions of Wembley Stadium and The EFL. All ticket sales are final and non-transferable/refundable. All sales are subject to the Football League and Wembley Stadium conditions of issue and ground regulations. Fans wishing to view the full terms and conditions of any EFL Conditions of Sale and Wembley National Stadium Limited (WNSL) Ground Regulations can find out more information by clicking here.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/16/play-off-final-on-sale

[WhiteJC]

 
Volksbank Cup Runners Up

Fulham's Under-19s finished runners up in the Volksbank Cup on Saturday evening. Fulham lost the final in Stemwede 1-0 to Red Bull Brazil.

Fulham had finished top of their group, beating local side Mühlenkreis, Red Bull Brazil, Hamburg, and drawing to Glasgow Rangers across both Thursday and Friday.

Saturday was the knock out stages, Fulham were pitted against German outfit Werder Bremen in the semi-final, who finished runners up of Group B to Tottenham Hotspur.

It was a tense match with little chances at either end in the first half and the teams went into the break goalless.

Jayden Harris broke the deadlock for the Young Whites after the restart, he lobbed the keeper to make it 1-0 in Fulham's favour.

With five minutes remaining Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson knocked the second into the bottom corner to secure the Young Whites' place in the final of the three day tournament.

Fulham would face Red Bull Brazil one more time, they had beaten the South Americans in the group stage 1-0 in an edgy fixture.

The Brazilians went close in the first half, hitting the woodwork after a strong save from Julian Schwarzer. However, Red Bull got their noses in front, chipping Schwarzer to take the advantage.

Fulham battled for the rest of the game, but were not able to break down the Brazilians. With the final whistle, the Young Whites finished runners up in their second trip to Stemwede.

Fulham went to Germany with a young squad this year.  "We lost the final to RB Brazil who have now won the tournament three times in a row," commented Academy Director Huw Jennings.

"Red Bull Brazil, like the rest of the teams, were at the top end of the age range.

"For us this was an opportunity to give much needed tournament experience to a range of our players.

"The qualification age was players born in 1999, we had a number of players who were born in 2001, so it demonstrates that we can be extremely competitive in all contexts and that the squad performed really well.

"It is an outstanding tournament, it is very well organised and the people are fantastic. It is a classic German tournament set in a rural location where all the clubs come to one centre to enjoy a football festival.

"It is supported by the local community excellently, and it is a really novel experience that you don't get in this country.

"It's great for players to experience, like Rob Atkinson, who wont have ever been involved in anything like that. He played every minute of every game, and players like him will get invaluable experience from playing in this tournament."




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/16/volksbank-cup-runners-up

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham v Aston Villa head to head – their strengths, weaknesses and key players

Fulham will take on Aston Villa in the Championship play-off final at Wembley on Saturday week for a place in the Premier League.

The Whites, who finished third, overcame Derby in their semi-final, while Villa saw off Middlesbrough.

Here's a closer look at the two sides who will be battling it out for a return to the top flight.

Key players

There have been a number of star players in Fulham's side, who have all been linked with summer moves away. Teenage sensation Ryan Sessegnon is hot property, scoring 16 goals and winning pretty much every award going. Tom Cairney has been a creative presence in midfield and Aleksandar Mitrovic is arguably the signing of the season, scoring 12 goals in 18 games since his January loan move from Newcastle.

Most managers in the division agree Villa have one of the strongest squads and it is littered with top-quality players. Pre-season signing John Terry has governed the defence while Jack Grealish has shaken off his bad-boy image to become one of the top talents in the division. Robert Snodgrass has also added a lot of quality since his move from Hull.

Strengths

Fulham have been a pleasure to watch, with some of the football on their 23-game unbeaten run in the regular season catching the eye. They play with pace and speed, with the full-backs bombing on more like wingers, and attack from both sides. The first leg against the Rams is the only time since December they have failed to score.

Villa have quality all over the park and strength in depth, with boss Steve Bruce able to turn to millions of pounds worth of talent from the bench. As well as creativity coursing through the side, they are also thrifty at the back, as only runaway champions Wolves registered more clean sheets than Villa's 20 in the regular season. And their manager is of course a serial promotion winner.

Weaknesses

When you go half of the regular season without losing a game, it shows that there are not many areas to improve for Fulham. Perhaps one might be on the mental side as – although the Whites came from behind to beat Derby over two legs in the play-offs, they have had history of failing in the big matches, notably losing on the final day of the campaign when a win would have taken them up automatically. That might be a concern ahead of Wembley, while sometimes they are guilty of overplaying.

Such is Villa's array of talent that sometimes there is a tendency to play as individuals and if they all suffer an off-day they are prone to the odd strange result, such as late-season defeats against Bolton, QPR and Norwich. Their ability to cope under pressure will come under scrutiny as their support, though vocal, is demanding and will expect their side to seal their return to the Premier League.

The managers

If anyone deserves a shot at managing in the Premier League it is Fulham's Slavisa Jokanovic. The Serbian has won promotion from the Championship before with Watford, before leaving straight afterwards. He is a cool customer and committed to playing the game in the right way, in a league which is physically demanding.

Nobody has won more promotions from the Championship than Bruce's four. He knows his way around the big games, having taken Hull up via the play-offs two years ago.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-v-aston-villa-head-to-head-their-strengths-weaknesses-and-key-players

[WhiteJC]

 
Wilshere out of England's World Cup squad, if only Tom Cairney wasn't Scottish..

Despite being capped for Scotland, Jimmy Bullard reckons Cairney would be playing for England if he had an engine, but rates him amongst the best talent

Jimmy Bullard reckons Jack Wilshere is the only player to have come through the ranks in England that is better on the ball than Fulham skipper Tom Cairney.

The 27-year-old was named in the Championship Team of the Season despite missing the start of the campaign with a reoccurring knee injury and was a standout player in their 23 game unbeaten run before the Birmingham loss.

He was linked with a move to the Premier League in January, with both West Brom and West Ham holding an interest in the central midfield, who former midfielder Bullard holds in very high regard.

He believes that Cairney, alongside wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon, will both be playing in the top flight next season, regardless of what happens in Fulham's play-off campaign.

Writing in his column for sports betting company, www.BetBright.com, former Fulham midfielder Bullard, said: "I'd love to see Fulham go up. But regardless of whether they get promoted, I think we'll be seeing young Ryan Sessegnon in the Premier League next season.

"If it doesn't happen for Fulham over the next few weeks I can see him going to a big club in the summer which will be great for him, of course.

"I think we'll also see Tom Cairney in the Premier League next season – he's Fulham's skipper and he is quality.


(Image: Stephen Pond/Getty Images)

"In possession, he's a joke. He just doesn't give the ball away. Simple as that. The only Englishman who's better on the ball than him is Jack Wilshere – trust me, he's proper.

"The only thing about Tom is that he hasn't got an engine – if he did, he'd be playing for England, 100%."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/jack-wilshere-england-tom-cairney-14647085

[WhiteJC]

 
Adomah confident Villa will beat Fulham

Albert Adomah believes Aston Villa will win their promotion showdown with Fulham and return to the Premier League.

Villa face the Whites in the Championship play-off final at Wembley on May 26 after beating Middlesbrough 1-0 on aggregate on Tuesday.

They drew 0-0 at Villa Park following a 1-0 win at the Riverside on Saturday and Adomah is confident they can end their two-year exile from the top flight.

"There'll be a lot of expectation but hopefully the best team will win – and I believe that will be us," said the west London-raised 30-year-old, who played in Middlesbrough's play-off final defeat against Norwich in 2015.

"Fulham haven't been in the Premier League for a long time but Aston Villa were only recently relegated. Hopefully, at the second time of asking, we can come out on top.

"It'll be good – it's two big teams. We finished fourth and they came third and it'll be a tough game. They're one of the form teams and missed out on the last day so maybe there'll be a bit of disappointment.

"We knew we'd be in the play-offs throughout and hopefully we can give them a challenge."

Lewis Grabban was denied by Darren Randolph in a scrappy game of few clear chances while James Chester also went close for Villa.

Former Harrow Borough man Adomah added: "We knew we only had to draw to go through and it was a solid performance.

"Unfortunately we didn't score but did well as a team and they put some pressure on us, towards the end it was a bit end-to-end."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/aston-villa-star-believes-they-will-beat-fulham

[WhiteJC]

 
Report: Major cup finalists join massive hunt to snap up £20m-plus deal for Newcastle giant

Europa League finalists Olympique Marseille are among those hunting the capture of Newcastle United powerhouse striker Aleksandar Mitrovic this summer with a £20million-plus price tag slapped on his head, according to a report.

The Chronicle claim on their website that the Magpies are keen to offload the 23-year-old but will be demanding a premium fee for his sale, with manager Rafael Benitez said to be looking for in excess of £20million for the 6'2″ giant.

As well as the French side, who will take on Atletico Madrid in Wednesday's major European cup final, loan side Fulham, Bordeaux, Anderlecht and next season's Premier League rivals Brighton and Wolves are all said to be interested in his capture, having netted 12 goals while with the Cottagers.

Football Insider verdict

If Mitrovic is to play no role in Newcastle's future then ensuring that the Magpies get the biggest possible pay-out for his sale must be their biggest priority. At present it does not look like Mike Ashley has any intentions of leaving and with his grasp pulling the purse strings tightly shut, then Benitez will have to bolster whatever funds he is handed with the exit of fringe figures and possibly a senior star or two. Mitrovic certainly seems like the man with the biggest potential in terms of a transfer fee and if he can carry on his bright form at the World Cup then his stock will just keep rising and rising. Still, there will be those who argue that his form is worthy of him being handed a second chance at Newcastle, but his effort and discipline simply do not fit into Benitez's way of thinking. Shipping him out will give Newcastle the best chance of bringing new recruits in.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/report-euro-finalists-join-massive-hunt-to-snap-up-20m-plus-powerhouse-at-newcastle/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham Aren't Something Special. Aston Villa Have Nothing To Be Scared Of.
Written by Melon Donkey

There is definitely a general feeling in the football world that Fulham are something special.

They are not.

They are a very good championship side I will admit that. But they didn't win the league, they didn't even finish second. They are nothing to be scared of. We have smashed Wolves. We can smash Fulham. Not guaranteed at all but we can. As it's a Final we probably won't smash them, it will be tight and cagey but again, we could smash them like we did to the runaway title winners in the second half of that game.

We can, of course, put in a Norwich/QPR performance but I look at the experience in our team for the big occasion game.

Terry, Chester, Hutton, Jedi, Whelan, Albert, Snoddy, Thor.

Players that have been there and done it at major international tournaments, qualifiers, Champions League, Premier League, play-off finals, promotions. Even Super Jack has been there at a cup semi-final and final.

Our manager? Been there, done it.

Fulham, have they got that experience for the occasion?. Honestly, I haven't looked and don't know for sure but I guess not. It's not in the bag, not even close. It will be tight and nervy, but with what we have....

Do you want to bet against us?



https://astonvilla.vitalfootball.co.uk/fulham-arent-something-special-aston-villa-have-nothing-to-be-scared-of/

[WhiteJC]

 
Play-Off FINAL
Wembley, Wembley, we're the oldest team in London and we're going to Wembley

We overturned the 1 goal deficit against Derby County with a 2-0 win at Craven Cottage which gives us the opportunity to go to Wembley for the play-off final to decide who'll be playing Premiership football next season.

Aston Villa will be our opponents, they beat Middlesborough 1-0 over the two legs.

43 year ago Fulham had a disappointing visit to the "old" Wembley loosing to West Ham in the FA Cup Final after the longest FA Cup run in history, it's a funny coincidence that Villa and West Ham have the same shirts? however I'm looking forward to a better result this time.

Our record against Villa this season:
21 Oct 2017   Villa 2-1 Fulham
17 Feb 2017   Fulham 2-0 Villa


COYW's



http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=238

[WhiteJC]

 
West Ham and Crystal Palace eye Fulham fullback Ryan Fredericks


In demand | Fredericks (left) started his career at Tottenham (Action Images)

Ryan Fredericks is a target for Crystal Palace as he approaches the end of his Fulham contract.

Fredericks helped Fulham reach the Championship Play-off Final this week but his future at Craven Cottage remains uncertain.  West Ham have also shown strong interest but the uncertainty over who will be their manager next season.

The 25-year-old right-back has yet to sign the new deal he was offered last year - and will not do so if Slavisa Jokanovic's men lose to Aston Villa at Wembley as he wants to play in the Premier League next season.

Palace remain interested regardless and boss Roy Hodgson and sporting director Dougie Freedman watched him in action as Fulham beat Derby  2-0 on Monday to set up the showdown with Steve Bruce's Villa, who drew 0-0 with Middlesbrough last night to secure a place in the final, 1-0 on aggregate.

Joel Ward is set to leave Selhurst Park next month and while Aaron Wan-Bissaka has performed well, Fredericks has impressed Hodgson.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/west-ham-and-crystal-palace-eye-fulham-fullback-ryan-fredericks-a3840896.html

[WhiteJC]

 
The top 5 2017/18 Championship teams for total passes

The 2017/18 Sky Bet Championship season is yet to fully resume, as one of Aston Villa or Fulham are battle it out for a spot in the promised land of the Premier League. However, there was plenty to look back on from the regular campaign, prior to the play-offs. Thanks to EFL Stats, we can reveal the top 5 passing teams from the season gone by.

Bottom of that table is actually Cardiff City, who will indeed by playing their football in the promised land after a superb effort to finish behind champions Wolverhampton Wanderers. Millwall were second from bottom, another team to enjoy a strong season, despite just missing out on the play-offs. Just above are Bolton Wanderers, who survived on the final day, and Burton Albion, who dropped back into League One after two years in the second tier.

All we are really interested on is those higher up this particular table, and praising them for their attractive styles of play. Notable mentions go to Reading, Sheffield United and Aston Villa, for narrowly missing out on the top five spots. Starting from five to one, here are the top five passing teams from the 2017/18 Sky Bet Championship campaign.

5) Brentford

It won't come as a shock to see Brentford high up on this category. Head coach Dean Smith has implemented this brand of football throughout his managerial career, starting at Walsall, and then into the Championship when the Bees came calling. They may have missed out on the play-offs, but they were in contention until the final few weeks. In total, 21,775 passes were completed.

4) Nottingham Forest

It is quite interesting to see mid-table Nottingham Forest so high up. It has to be remembered that they have had a few different managers over the season too, all of which would have had their own ideas and strategies to implement. It started with Mark Warburton, who is another 'passing manager'. He would be dismissed in December, and caretaker Gary Brazil oversaw two games, before ex-Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka led them from January 8th onwards. They completed 21,886 passes.

3) Norwich City

Head coach Daniel Farke quickly set his side the task of playing a possession-based style. They took time to truly settle into his methods, and it could be argued they never did based on their mid-table showing. Still, they will be better for this season going into next, where they will be targeting a play-off position without a doubt. The fact only two teams completed more passes than them does tell a story, but ultimately they didn't have the campaign they wanted. Overall, it was 22,263 passes made.

2) Wolves

The champions played like champions through their intricate passing style. Nuno Espirito Santo worked them hard in pre-season to play in this manner, and that hard work clearly paid off come the end. They won the title and that looked like the case from quite an early stage. They can move into the Premier League looking to continue with this style, hoping to earn more plaudits, as most importantly. collect many points along the way. They made 23,098 passes.

1) Fulham

No shock by this whatsoever! We all knew Fulham would be topping this list, by perhaps what would be the most interesting would be to see how close the second would be. Wolves were still the best part of 1,800 passes behind Fulham, which clearly shows how insistent Slavisa Jokanovic is on playing this pure brand of football. This clearly worked based on their successful campaign, although that will largely be determined if they can beat Aston Villa in the play-off final or not. They made a whopping 24,857 passes.



http://the72.co.uk/102774/top-5-201718-championship-teams-total-passes/

[WhiteJC]

 
From 17th to Wembley - How Fulham turned their season round to reach the play-offs

Fulham turned their season round to reach the play-off final - we take a look at what was addressed to change their fortunes this campaign

The clock has hit 7.30pm on November 18 and Fulham have let a one goal lead slip at home to Derby County, meaning it's now six games without a win.

The club are now languishing in 17th position in the Championship having conceded ten goals in those six matches, scoring just five times and picking up three points.

There's calls for Slavisa Jokanovic to go while the players look totally devoid of confidence, with fans on the terraces muttering 'this wasn't how this season was meant to go'.

But fast forward to May 14 and Denis Odoi is being carried to the changing rooms under a sea of jubilant Fulham fans, while Marcus Bettinelli is on someone's shoulders waving a black and white flag signing 'we're going to Wembley'.

Derby are the visitors again, but this time Fulham have beaten them 2-0 to overturn a 1-0 deficit in the play-offs that will see the side to the national stadium for the first time in 43 years after losing just four times in their past 32 matches.

It sounds like the stuff of fairy tales, but the remarkable turnaround is real and the Whites will be playing for a place in the Premier League against Aston Villa on Saturday May 26.

But how did it happen?

A real hard look in the mirror, a Christmas party and a renewed togetherness all contributed to a stark turnaround - here's how Fulham turned their season from disaster to Wembley.

Fitness levels

Fulham's football is based on dominating the ball and the opponent, keeping a high intensity and attacking passing brand to pummel opponents over the course of 90 minutes.

To do that, you need high levels of fitness which the side didn't have to start with this season.

Pre-season didn't seem to be the kind they needed and it took Fulham a long time to even get going - their first win of the league campaign didn't come until the end of August at Ipswich Town.


(Image: Paul Burgman/Press-Photos.com)

The calibre of opponents in pre-season weren't the right type to prepare the side for the start of the season - the likes of Piast Gliwice, FC Zlin and Darmstadt won't prepare you for the likes of Cardiff City, Norwich and Sheffield Wednesday, while getting thumped 8-2 by Chelsea does nothing for confidence.

But now, however, the side have gotten up to the speed on their fitness levels and the amount of goals in the last ten minutes is testament to just how fit this side are and what a difference it can make.

Better understanding of roles

The Fulham squad took time getting to know their roles in the squad this season, and getting to know one another's too.

A number of new players have come into the team over the season and it looks like it took a while for everyone to get to know what one another does.

It took Jokanovic a while too to find what his best XI was - the 1-1 draw with Derby County saw Tayo Edun make his senior debut in midfield, while Rui Fonte was still being used as the out and out striker.

It comes back to Fulham's style - they need everyone knowing where they'll be to make it the well-oiled machine it is, and if even one person is out of sync, it has a huge impact.

Now, however, those players know where one another will be, almost by instinct, and that has contributed hugely to Fulham's rise.

January Transfer Window

Getting the January window right was huge.

Everyone knew what Fulham were missing, and after a disappointing summer and a turbulent November, when data analyst Craig Kline was sacked from the club, making sure January was a success and put the club in a position to continue their good form that had started at the turn of the year.

Keeping Ryan Sessegnon, Tom Cairney and Ryan Fredericks was a big base upon which to build, while the additions of Matt Targett, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Cyrus Christie adding strength and that final bit to the jugsaw.

But perhaps more importantly, off the pitch it represented a new Fulham.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

The power struggles between Jokanovic and the recruitment team were well documented, and while the window started shakily with the head coach issuing that 'back me or sack me' call over transfers, they came together to deliver three solid signings.

James Lovell's hiring made a bridge between Jokanovic and the recruitment team, and the signing of Mitrovic via Jokanovic's Whatsapp demonstrated a better working relationship between two of the most important departments in the club.

That harmony, whether or not it was direct, would certainly have been felt around the squad, with players knowing that Jokanovic would play them, unlike those that came before and were subject to some of the earlier rants about transfers in the media.

Return of Tom Cairney

Having got injured at the start of pre-season, Cairney struggled to shake off the knee injury throughout the most part of the season, and its influence was telling.

Without a fit Cairney, Fulham struggled to have that creative spark in the middle of the pitch.

Oliver Norwood stepped into the gap and did well and his performances in this resurgence can't be understated, but for me the Northern Irishman is more of a hybrid of Kevin McDonald and Cairney, as opposed to a straight replacement.


Tom Cairney of Fulham celebrates scoring his side's first goal (Image: Getty Images Europe)

Having someone of Cairney's quality is so important for a title-chasing side, and his return pushed Fulham to that next level, with his ability on the ball a massive influence in the style of play Fulham employ.

A team without Cairney will always be worse than one with him, and the fact he was named in the Championship team of the year despite playing half the season shows that.

Defensive solidarity

The Whites struggled with keeping the ball out of their net early on in the season, with only four clean sheets between the start of the season January 13.

But since then, they've kept 12, including a run of five in a row at Craven Cottage with Marcus Bettinelli in the Fulham goal, while Tim Ream has had the season of his life and has contributed massively this season.

I've said it all season that defences win you titles, and Fulham's just weren't up to the standard required in the start.

But Bettinelli coming in, Ream performing well, Denis Odoi's second coming as a centre back and Targett's introduction at left back have all combined to make the side a good defensive outlet.


(Image: Evening Gazette)

Addressing the balance

For the first half of the season, Fulham looked extremely unbalanced.

Most of the attacks came down the right, where Fredericks and Ayite would combine to cause problems, whereas the left lacked the same kind of threat.

Sessegnon was employed at left back and was contained there for the most part, concentrating on defensive duties rather than attacking, while there was no one to link up with him like Scott Malone had done the year before.

There was no striker either - Fonte is more of a number ten and he liked dropping into the midfield to pick the ball up and make things happen, meaning there was no outlet up front for when he did turn and try to play people in.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

But with the introduction of Targett at left back and Mitrovic up top, Fulham look so much more balanced, with attacks coming down both sides, while Mitrovic is that focal point for the side's build up play.

Having an unbalanced side disrupted the flow of Fulham, but the change since addressing that has been clear.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/17th-wembley-how-fulham-turned-14665863

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The tactical approach Aston Villa must take to beat Fulham in the play-off final

Steve Bruce will have to get his tactics right if he wants to beat this flowing Fulham side.

Villa and Fulham are just one match away from achieving their aim of Premier League football. They finished fourth and third in the league respectively, so it's no shock that they were able to see off Boro and Derby between them.

The final is a much tougher task because there is no second leg to save themselves and nerves play a much bigger part with Huddersfield's victory on penalties after a 0-0 draw in regular time last season being a good example.

Bruce has prior experience of taking Birmingham and Hull through the play-offs in 2002 and 2016, but few Championship sides have been as dangerous as Fulham when they reach their peak.

Here are three things his team must do to come away victorious...

Utilise set pieces

Set pieces will be key for Villa in this game because they are unlikely to see much of possession, so they are likely to be limited to quick transitions as well as dead-ball opportunities.

They used this well against Boro because Mile Jedinak scored the solitary goal over the two legs with a header from a corner. Villa can utilise their height advantage as well as the physical profiles they have in their squad. For example, Denis Odoi is one of Fulham's centre-backs, but he is one of the smallest players on the team, although he did score a header against Derby.

Maximising these big opportunities with designed routines is one of their best ways to grab a goal in this nervy encounter. They have an excellent set piece specialist in Robert Snodgrass, so getting the best out of him will be key.

Isolate Mitrovic

Curtis Davies did a great job of nullifying Aleksandar Mitrovic over the two legs even if his side weren't able to come away victorious. One of Villa's centre-backs, most likely John Terry, must focus on blocking play to him and keeping tight to ensure that he can't turn and create an opportunity.

The Serbian striker is the focal point of the team and he either creates his own opening or holds the ball up and feeds players making darting runs into the box such as Ryan Sessegnon. Cutting him off from the rest of the team limits their play because they like to play into his feet in order to draw in the opposition and create space for other players.

Fulham did find a way to play around this in the second leg against Derby, but this is one of the best ways to stifle their attacking play especially if they intend to play in a low block.

Use 4-2-3-1

Formations are fluid, so they can change depending on which shape the team is in as well as the current scenario. However, Bruce should use a 4-2-3-1 rather than a 4-1-4-1 in possession as well as in the defensive shape.

This is most important defensively because it reduces the space in the central attacking areas for Fulham, which is key because they like to stretch the opposition and pack these areas with players making lots of quick movements that included runs from deep positions.

Having a double pivot helps control the midfield areas by adding another passing option in build-up and reduces the chance of the Cottagers being able to exploit central areas in transition due to the deeper average position of the two defensive midfielders.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/the-tactical-approach-aston-villa-must-take-to-beat-fulham-in-the-play-off-final/

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Aston Villa v Fulham: How Steve Bruce can win the Championship play-off final

The Claret and Blueprint for Villa to triumph at Wembley

Aston Villa booked their place in the Championship play-off final with a professional victory over Middlesbrough over two legs.

That gives them the chance to return to the Premier League at the second attempt and their supporters the added bonus of a day out at Wembley.

However, Fulham stand in their way - at times the most impressive team in the Championship in many aspects.

Villa have shared the two games with the Londoners this season.

We look back at those and analyse how Steve Bruce can engineer the perfect result in the all important decider.

Home
Aston Villa players celebrate John Terry's goal
Villa 2 Fulham 1

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Villa bounced back from defeat to Wolves the previous week with Josh Onomah in sparkling form behind Jonathan Kodjia.

John Terry scored his first goal for the club, Stefan Johansen cancelled it out before Albert Adomah restored the lead after good work from Onomah.

Sam Johnstone's brilliant save from Floyd Ayite secured the win.

"We are just about starting for me in the Championship," said Bruce afterwards, before adding: "I have no doubt they will be there or thereabouts."
Away
Fulham 2 Villa 0

Saturday, February 17, 2018

Fulham were seven points behind Villa when the sides met at Craven Cottage in February. They were, though, nine games into an unbeaten run that would extend to 23 matches.

After a tight first half Ryan Sessegnon and Floyd Ayite bagged second half goals, the latter a terrible error from Johnstone.

Here's what we took from those games - and the rest of the season

Possession

When Fulham came to Villa Park they dominated possession 68%-32%. However, for all that they managed just nine shots compared to Villa's 15.

At Craven Cottage it was only slightly more even - 63-37%.

That's not a problem, Villa are perfectly comfortable playing without the ball, indeed the last time they had the majority of possession they lost 1-0 at Millwall.

That's not to say there's a direct correlation between possession and results - but more to emphasise that Villa are more than happy when they don't have the ball.

Maintaining shape is not a problem for Bruce's well-drilled team.

Contain Ryan Sessegnon

The 17-year-old has enjoyed a stunning season in the Championship scoring 16 goals and providing seven assists.

He is destined for a bright, bright future and is developing from a rookie left back into a diamond as a left-sided attacker.

He's good with the ball at his feet but is arguably more dangerous when he's running in behind defenders - and especially when he's ghosting in off the flank to take up positions in the penalty area. He's very difficult to track.

Whoever plays right back for Villa is going to have to be very mindful of that - and the right-sided winger and central midfielder are also going to have to contribute because Fulham do like to overload with Matt Targett bombing on.

Exploit the spaces behind the full backs

With Sessegnon and Targett's attacking intent down the left - and Ryan Fredericks on the other side, paired with Lucas Piazon or Ayite, Fulham can leave space down the sides.

Birmingham City exploited that to good effect when they hammered Fulham on the final day of the season.

Robert Snodgrass and Adomah have the quality to make any lapses of concentration or over-ambition pay and in such circumstances Villa must look to find them with an early pass.
Run at Tim Ream and Denis Odoi

The Fulham central defenders often get through matches without too many questions being asked, simply because their team has the ball so much. No team has had more possession than Slavisa Jokanovic's men this season.

However, opponents can have joy down the sides of both centre halves, especially someone like Lewis Grabban with the pace to run away, or Jack Grealish with the trickery to go by them.

Trying to isolate those players and force one-on-one situations is a route to success, either from open play or by winning free kicks.
Keep tabs on Aleksandar Mitrovic

This almost goes without saying but the Serb can he devastating in the box.

His recruitment in January was a massive reason why Fulham were able to go on such a long unbeaten run, he basically provided the finish to their quality build up play.

He's good in the air, sharp with his feet and uses his physique well. However, he's nothing John Terry hasn't been handling for his entire career and with the right management he can drift out of games.

Take advantage at set-pieces

Terry did that perfectly at Villa Park, flicking Conor Hourihane's free kick into the top corner.

Fulham don't have a particular weakness in those situations - but it is one of Villa's strengths.

Terry, Mile Jedinak and James Chester are all threats from restarts, and Villa have the technical ability to find them.

They've got to Wembley with a set-piece goal - they can get to the Premier League with another.

Limit Fulham's dead balls

Johansen bagged a relatively soft free kick goal at Villa Park. Cairney also has high quality from set-plays - as has Kevin McDonald.

Villa will need to keep those situations to a minimum, which means not diving in on players like Sessegnon, Piazon, Cairney or Ayite.Limit Fulham's dead balls

Johansen bagged a relatively soft free kick goal at Villa Park. Cairney also has high quality from set-plays - as has Kevin McDonald.

Villa will need to keep those situations to a minimum, which means not diving in on players like Sessegnon, Piazon, Cairney or Ayite.

And they are not too proud to score set-piece goals either, Odoi did it against Derby but that has tended to be a rarity this term. Attention to marking duties should see Villa through this aspect of the game.

Press sensibly

Fulham play out from the back, right from the goalkeeper - and whilst they undoubtedly have the quality to do that, they can also be harried into errors.

However, for the most part it will be about retaining defensive shape, making sure Fulham don't engineer too many over-loads down the sides and picking up runners in the box.

There is no need to panic if Fulham once again have 60-70% of the ball. But when Villa decide to press, they have to go as a pack and not indivuduals.
Flawless from Sam Johnstone

The Villa goalkeeper had a massive bearing on the outcome of both matches. His stupendous save denied Ayite in the first game, prompting comparisons with David De Gea.

However, his gaffe in the second gave the Fulham attacker an empty net to pass into - and the Whites the crucial second goal.

He'll need to be on his game at Wembley.
Don't be too timid

Remember, this is Aston Villa we're talking about here. A team capable of overwhelming any opponent in the division.

Wolves were overpowered, Bristol City cut to ribbons and Fulham themselves kept at arm's length. Villa have no need to fear anybody.

In Snodgrass, Grealish, Grabban, Adomah, Kodjia and several others there is more than enough firepower to blow Fulham away.

There will be gaps - much more space on the pitch than against Middlesbrough, so Villa can look for ways to exploit them and give their supporters a day to remember.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/villa-fulham-playoff-final-wembley-14664961

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Cairney: What We Deserve

Tom Cairney believes Fulham's performance over two legs, and throughout the season, warrants their spot at Wembley.

The Whites overturned a 1-0 deficit against Derby County to secure a place in the Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Final – something that is entirely justified according to our Club Captain.

"I was more emotional than I thought I'd be, but it's only what we deserve," he told fulhamfc.com. "I said after the Semi-Final last year that it was the worst feeling I've ever had on a football pitch, and after the First Leg on Friday I just didn't want to feel like that again.

"It's been a two-year project and, to a man, I thought we were exceptional. In my eyes I thought we played really well First Leg even though we got beat.

"But all I was hearing was negative things going into the game – 'Fulham have never won a Play-Off, the wheels are falling off,' etcetera. No, not with this team, not the way we play.

"We've got to Wembley and I think that's only what the Club deserves, what this team deserves. Nobody understands what goes into a Championship season, from pre-season onwards for 10 months, and moments like this really make it worthwhile.

"I'm just delighted for everyone at the Club, the backroom staff, the people who cook our meals, the people who clean up, it's a massive team effort. We've got one more game, and we'll be fighting on behalf of everyone.

"We haven't won anything at the end of the day, so we need to go into the Final and give it all we've got."

Craven Cottage was rocking from start to finish on Monday night, and Cairney insisted that support gave his side an extra push.

"That's the best I've ever heard the Cottage," he admitted. "It's the loudest it's been, and that was from the get-go.

"You don't understand how much you need them, especially when the opposition are on top or you need that extra bit of legs, and they definitely played their part, so thank you."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/may/16/tom-cairney-what-we-deserve

[WhiteJC]

 
EFL Championship: Fulham and Aston Villa to meet at Wembley in playoff final

The match-up for the most expensive game in football is set at Wembley. Fulham or Aston Villa will make their triumphant return to the Premier League.

The playoff semifinals are in the books and the playoff final is set. After a 1-0 defeat at Pride Park Stadium, Fulham responded by winning the second leg against Derby County 2-0. Their player of the season Ryan Sessegnon scored the aggregate equalizer and Belgian defender Denis Odoi put in the winner and gave Fulham a place at Wembley.

In the other semifinal. Middlesbrough couldn't break through after 180+ minutes against Aston Villa. Socceroo and Villa captain Mile Jedinak's 15th-minute strike was enough to take Aston Villa to the playoff final. The second leg ended 0-0 at Villa Park.

What's at stake

For Aston Villa, this is their chance to return to the Premier League after a two-year hiatus. They were relegated for the first time in 2015-16 from the modern EPL and have quickly rebounded after a 13th-place season in the Championship in 2016-17. Villa will look to former EPL stars John Terry and Robert Snodgrass for the victory at Wembley.

As for the Cottagers, they have been stuck in the Championship for the last four seasons and are seeking a return to the top flight. Fulham has been led by the ultra-talented teenager Ryan Sessegnon all season and the win at Wembley could be a glimpse into the future. We could see more Fulham wins there if owner Shad Khan's purchase of Wembley is complete.

Previous Meetings

Villa and Fulham split the two meetings during the Championship season. At Villa Park, John Terry and Albert Adomah scored both goals to clinch a 2-1 victory in December. Fulham got revenge in February at Craven Cottage with a 2-0 win. Ryan Sessegnon and Floyd Ayite were the goalscorer.

The rubber match for a spot in the English Premier League will take place on Saturday, May 26th at noon EST. One of these two former EPL regulars will be back in the league and join Wolves and Cardiff as the new teams on the block for 2018-19.



https://thetopflight.com/2018/05/16/efl-championship-fulham-and-aston-villa-to-meet-at-wembley-in-playoff-final/

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Aston Villa news: Conor Hourihane mocks Fulham over celebrations
ASTON VILLA star Conor Hourihane has warned Fulham that their play-off 'selfie' celebrations might turn to out to be premature.

The Irishman says Villa have 'noted' jubilant pictures posted on social media by Cottagers players celebrating reaching Wembley for the Championship play-off final.

But Slavisa Jokanovic's men must beat Villa on May 26 to earn a place back in the Premier League.

And Hourihane says the Midlands club toned down their celebrations after beating Middlesbrough following Fulham's reaction to victory over Derby.

"That's been mentioned, don't worry," said Hourihane, 27. "They celebrated like they won the league or something like that. We had calm celebrations, everyone was just in the dressing room high-fiving each other.

"There was nothing major going on in the dressing room at all because there's more business to be done.

"Fulham are a good side, they finished ahead of us in the League, deservedly so. The League table doesn't lie.

"They might be slight favourites going into it, but all the best to them if they fancy themselves more than us because we'll be ready for it, that's for sure."

Hourihane has climbed back to the Championship from League Two after failing to make the grade in the second tier as a youngster with both Sunderland and Ipswich.

Now he is targeting a hat-trick of Wembley victories having triumphed twice there with Barnsley in 2016.

The former Plymouth man was in the Tykes team that beat Oxford in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final before defeating Millwall in the League One play-off final.


Conor Hourihane insists Aston Villa did not celebrate like Fulham

"The play-off experience with Barnsley has definitely helped me," he said. "The other lads here, they've played in big games. This is probably one of the biggest campaigns I've been involved in.

"Having that experience of play-offs with Barnsley, I knew what was coming, and I know what is coming in the final as well so that might give me an edge.

"I've probably done it the harder way to a lot of lads in that dressing room, I've come from the lower leagues all the way up.

"A lot of the lads have been in the Premier League and been at a high level, we've met in the middle here so hopefully the hard work will pay off with one more game at Wembley."



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/960776/Aston-Villa-news-Conor-Hourihane-Fulham-celebrations

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Fulham Can Have This Attacking Ace For £20m From Newcastle United: Why They Need To Get It Done!

After missing out narrowly on direct promotion to the Premier League, Fulham are in with a great chance for qualification as they will take on Aston Villa in the finals of the playoff at Wembley. They got the better of Derby County over two legs and are probably the favourites to win the finals as well.

Fulham's season has been built on some key players and Aleksandar Mitrovic has played a huge role in that. Since his loan move in January, the Serbian forward has found the back of the net 12 times and has been instrumental in the Cottagers' push for Premier League qualification.

With such good numbers, it is expected that his fellow countryman and Fulham manager Slaviša Jokanović will make a move for him in the summer. It is clear that even after such performances, Rafael Benitez is not keen on having him. Mitrovic is known for his angry outburst and can be a liability on the pitch for his team and maybe that is one of the reasons why Benitez is willing to let him go even after he has shown his worth. According to reports, The Magpies can demand £20m for the 23-year-old striker.

Fulham will certainly like to keep their man even if they are not promoted. However, if the move to the Premier League is sealed by the Lillywhites, the riches they will receive on winning the playoffs will be enough for paying up the quoted amount to Newcastle United.

Mitrovic has himself claimed that he is happy at the club and one can take this as an indication that he wants to stay at Craven Cottage where he is enjoying the best time of his career. In an interview, he said,"I'm really happy here, I enjoy it a lot here, my family as well. The manager [Slavisa Jokanovic], obviously being Serbian too, helped me a lot and the style they play, the players they have, suits me. I played against them last season and this season they play the style that I like."

Mitrovic has improved under the new manager and he has also cut down on his useless altercation with the opposition and the referees, which has helped him in channelling his focus towards his game. He has certainly proven his critics wrong in his loan spell and staying at Fulham will be the right step for him from his career point of view. Even Fulham will be delighted to have him and if Benitez gives the green signal and his quoted amount is met, we can see Mitrovic turning out at Craven Cottage next season on a permanent basis.



http://the4thofficial.net/2018/05/fulham-can-attacking-ace-20m-newcastle-united-need-get-done/

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Terry Butcher: 'Ryan Sessegnon should have made England squad for World Cup'

Former England defender Terry Butcher has claimed that Fulham wing-back Ryan Sessegnon should have been considered by Gareth Southgate for a place in the nation's World Cup squad.

The 17-year-old has enjoyed a fruitful season for the Cottagers, scoring 16 goals and registering seven assists en route to the Championship playoff final.

Sessegnon did not secure a place in Southgate's 23-man squad for Russia, however, and Butcher believes that the talented teenager should have made the cut.

"I would have looked at Fulham wing-back Ryan Sessegnon," Butcher told BBC Sport. "He has had a fantastic season, albeit at a lower division.

"He is a player that excites you and he is in the Championship playoffs with the possibility of playing in the Premier League next year.

"I think he is one for the future. I would have put him in but Gareth Southgate is England manager and I'm not."

Butcher was part of England's 1990 World Cup squad that came within a penalty shootout defeat by West Germany of a first final appearance since 1966.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/england/world-cup/news/butcher-sessegnon-should-have-made-wc-squad_326105.html

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Championship play-offs: Aston Villa to take on Fulham in final for chance to return to Premier League

    Villa reach Wembley showpiece on May 26 following tense 0-0 draw against Middlesbrough
    Second-half goals from Ryan Sessegnon and Denis Odoi send Fulham through at Derby's expense

Aston Villa sealed their place in the Championship play-off final after holding Middlesbrough at bay in a tense 0-0 draw at Villa Park on Tuesday that sent the Midlands club through 1-0 on aggregate.

Steve Bruce's side will face Fulham in the final on May 26 at Wembley as they look to return to the Premier League from which they were relegated in 2016.

Having won the semi-final first leg 1-0 courtesy of a Mile Jedinak strike, Villa showed some organised defending to hold off Boro who were looking for an immediate return to the top-flight.

At the heart of that defence was former Chelsea and England centre-back John Terry who joined the club last year on a free transfer and whose appointment as captain appears to have had a significant impact.

"Two very good performances away and at home tonight. The boys are different class. I think it was important in the first half that we did not concede. Another clean sheet and a great night," Terry said.

"It was intense. I think our game plan worked very well so the manager deserves a lot credit for that. But the boys have been superb and we're off to Wembley with one more to go."

The match began with a minute's applause for former Villa defender Jlloyd Samuel who died earlier on Tuesday at the age of 37 in a car accident.

Boro created few clear-cut chances but almost levelled the tie late on when Stewart Downing's 89th-minute free kick from just outside the penalty area rattled the crossbar.

That proved to be the closest they came to a shot on target all evening and manager Tony Pulis, who began this season in the Premier League in charge of West Bromwich Albion, knew his side were always outsiders to reach the final.

"The teams that have finished third and fourth over a season have got to Wembley and that's justification, if anything," Pulis told Sky Sports.

"It's a hard season, it's a long season but they've been the third and fourth best teams in the league so you have to take it on the chin. It's difficult for me to say that but that's being brutally honest."

The home fans erupted in wild celebrations at fulltime and flooded onto the pitch to join the players.

The playoff final will be held at Wembley Stadium on May 26 where Villa will face Fulham who overcame Derby County 2-1 on aggregate on Monday.

Bruce has led two teams through the playoffs to the Premier League but expected a tight encounter against the Londoners.

"They're a good football side. They've got some good players but, then again, so have we," he said. "We're going to Wembley, let's enjoy it."

Fulham beat Derby County 2-0 (2-1 aggregate) at Craven Cottage on Monday to move into the final of the Championship play-offs courtesy of second-half goals from Ryan Sessegnon and Denis Odoi.

Derby have now missed out in the play-offs three times in the past five seasons while Fulham are looking for a return to the top tier of English football for the first time since 2014.

Fulham attacked from the outset but Derby keeper Scott Carson frustrated them throughout the first half with a series of fine saves.

A one-handed effort kept out a strong header from Fulham's Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic and Carson was at his best again to keep out a powerful drive from Aboubakar Kamara.

But Slavisa Jokanovic's side finally got reward for the efforts two minutes after the interval when 17-year-old Sessegnon showed great composure to drive home a left-foot shot from inside the area.

The decisive goal came in the 66th minute when Belgian Odoi beat Carson with a brilliantly angled header from a corner.

Fulham head to Wembley for the first time since they lost the FA Cup final to West Ham United in 1975.

"This club needs this kind of happiness," said Jokanovic, "After 43 years we will play at Wembley and it is an important achievement for us.

"We deserve this victory and a chance to reach the Premier League. The players showed great belief and confidence and it is credit to my players," he said.

Derby manager Gary Rowett felt his team had been too nervous.

"I think our composure let us down tonight, we made far too many mistakes on the ball, we looked a bit edgy to be honest," he said.

"They outplayed us in the second-leg and they more than deserve to go through."



https://www.thenational.ae/sport/football/championship-play-offs-aston-villa-to-take-on-fulham-in-final-for-chance-to-return-to-premier-league-1.731211