Tuesday Fulham Stuff (25/09/18)...

[WhiteJC]

 
3 Things We Learned From 1-1 Home Draw With Watford

The home fixture, against Watford, was a game I hoped we'd get maximum points from, but it wasn't to be.

Watford, who have had a fine start to the season, looked the far more impressive side in an opening forty-five minutes where Fulham were severely tested and could have gone into the break 3-0 down.

The fact that two half-time changes, made my Slavisa Jokanovic, changed matters around for the second half shouldn't hide the fact that there is still much to be done, behind the scenes, before Fulham can make in-roads into turning this season into something far more than just one of survival.

After the game, I selected three items I feel need addressing;

The first is the defence. Last season, our free-flowing style of football probably masked the fact that we never had the most secure of defences. Now we're in the top-flight, we've seen how much better strikers are and how clinical they can be. Despite bringing several defenders to the club, in the summer – Le Marchand, Chambers, Mawson, Fosu-Mensah and Fredericks, to name just five, Watford showed just how dodgy it is. Mawson never looked comfortable, Chambers was run ragged and Fosu-Mensah was lucky to stay on the pitch after a dreadful tackle on Troy Deeney. Hopefully, the return of Tim Ream, from injury, will prove to be the solution.

The second is Aleksandar Mitrovic. The Serbian was, once again, immense yesterday. His goal not only gave us a share of the spoils, but his all-round play dragged us back into the game. But for the crossbar, a late header could have seen Fulham take all three points. My fears are, what happens if the 23-year-old gets suspended or worse still injured? Just how would we cope?

The third is our style of play, although attractive on the eye as Jokanovic tries to produce free-flowing, eye-catching football, I fear that we lack the muscle to survive in some games. Watford, yesterday, showed how, when pressed, our game-plan can be quickly negated. Do we need a midfield power-house to provide some muscle, in the January transfer window?

COYW's



https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/3-things-we-learned-from-1-1-home-draw-with-watford/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham plot huge deal for African star

Premier League outfit Fulham are set to raid the bank to attempt to bring Lyon forward Maxwel Cornet to Craven Cottage in January, according to The Sun.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side have made a solid start to life back in the top flight, and they will be looking to kick on over the remainder of the campaign, potentially being assisted with new additions when the transfer window reopens.

The Serbian boss did a lot of work on bringing defenders to Craven Cottage in the summer, and in January it looks like he will spend much of his focus on finding support for top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic, who has started the season where he left off in the Championship last term.

Cornet was on the Fulham radar during the last transfer window, but the Cottagers were put off by what they saw as a high price on the pacey winger, who is full of tricks.

However, the Ivory Coast international shone in the Champions League against Manchester City last week to make the Londoners stand up and take notice once again.

The 21-year-old was believed to be available in the summer as Lyon looked to cash in on their prized asset, and Fulham will be hoping he remains on the market when the January window opens.

It is understood that the African star would cost a fee in the region of £18 million, although if he continues the sort of form he displayed at the Etihad Stadium, his cost could rise significantly.

One bright note for Fulham is that Cornet is said to be interested in a move to the Premier League, and the Cottagers would act as a perfect platform to show his talents on regularly, with the potential to climb even higher should he impress in London.

Prior to then, Fulham take on Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday afternoon, with Jokanovic hoping the likes of Ryan Sessegnon and Andre Schurrle can give Mitrovic the support he needs to lead the new boys to victory.



https://ninetyminutesonline.com/fulham-plot-huge-deal-for-african-star/

[WhiteJC]

 
Defensive issues need sorting & Mitrovic's importance - five key points from Fulham draw

Here's what our reporter, Ryan O'Donovan, took from Fulham's 1-1 draw with Watford on Saturday

Ryan Sessegnon starts at left back once more

Slavisa Jokanovic made two changes once again for the visit of Watford, recalling Timothy Fosu-Mensah and Calum Chambers, but not Joe Bryan.

That meant that Sessegnon, who also started at left back against Manchester City last week, was picked at in that same position once more, despite Bryan being fully fit for the game.

He didn't even make the bench, and while Sessegnon grew into the game his position for the first goal was erratic and he was often overrun on the left hand side as Watford looked to double up on him in the first half.

Last season we saw the 18-year-old play at both left back and left forward, playing in the latter position with deadly effect as he scored 16 goals for his club during the course of the Championship season.

But Jokanovic has started to use him more as a left back again this season, believing he did well against City and Raheem Sterling last week.

It remains up for debate whether or not Sessegnon is better utilised further forward or at left back in the top flight, but with Luciano Vietto and Andre Schurrle playing so well, if Jokanovic doesn't pick Sessegnon at left back it may mean there's no place for the wonderkid in the side at all at the moment.

Chaos ensues due to Fulham's poor shape

The first half defensive performance was a shambles and at times looked like a game of playground football.


(Image: Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

There was a lack of shape and communication on all accounts, with players breaking forward and getting out of position without any real care of the space they were leaving or the problems it would cause.

At times, it looked like the back four had never met one another, let alone trained together, and Fulham were very lucky their lack of shape didn't cost them more than just the one goal.

This kind of stuff should be improving as each day goes by, but this was the worst that I've seen Fulham in terms of defensive shape and it will leave Jokanovic pulling his hair out.


(Image: Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

You need to be tactically disciplined in the Premier League and today, Fulham weren't.

On another day, they could've been blown away by a different team.

Defensive concerns continue

And that leads onto defensive concerns.

Fulham have conceded the second most amount of goals in the Premier League this season, only one behind Cardiff City and Huddersfield Town, and things don't seem to be getting any better.

Watford could've scored a bagful in the first half, and on another day probably would've, but you don't get the sense that Fulham are comfortable defending whatsoever in this division.

Denis Odoi came on and added some stability to the back line, but there was still times sloppy errors nearly saw them concede, like when Chambers gave the ball away cheaply, allowing Troy Deeney to run one-on-one with Marcus Bettinelli before Odoi got back to clear the danger.

It has to improve and that improvement has to start immediately.


(Image: Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

The side may have a strong attack, but if they continue defending like they have done in the first six games of the season, they'll find it very hard not to get dragged into a relegation dogfight.

Slavisa Jokanovic's half time substitutes

Fulham needed a change at half time and Slavisa Jokanovic provided it by bringing on Odoi and Floyd Ayite in place of Alfie Mawson and Kevin McDonald.

They raised eyebrows at the time, but Odoi cut a composed figure in the heart of defence, providing some solidity in an otherwise flimsy back four, while his ability to get on the ball and play football meant that Fulham had a base from which to build their attacks upon.


(Image: Chris Radburn/PA Wire)

Ayite's introduction meant that Stefan Johansen and Jean-Michael Seri could sit deeper as a defensive midfield pairing, cutting the space that Watford were exploiting between Fulham's midfield and defence in the first half.

That allowed Luciano Vietto and Andre Schurrle to combine even more than they have done in the past, with Schurrle sitting at the top of a flat three that included Ayite on the left and Vietto on the right.

The pair caused problems going forward after the break, with Vietto laying the ball on a plate for Aleksandar Mitrovic to net his fifth of the season and get a point for Fulham.


(Image: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Jokanovic was quick to play down his role in making the substitutions and credited his side with turning the game around, but the head coach deserves as much credit as any one else for his role in the turnaround.

Aleksandar Mitrovic scores again

Another game, another Mitrovic goal.

He's in red hot form for Fulham and sits at the top of the goal scoring charts, alongside Chelsea's Eden Hazard, as he's continued his form from last season.


(Image: Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

If anyone needed to see it again, yesterday proved just how important Mitrovic is to the way Fulham play and is probably the key to them staying up this season.

It's clear that he loves Fulham and that Fulham loves him - long may that continue.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-watford-jokanovic-aleksandar-mitrovic-15187998

[WhiteJC]

 
Why Aleksandar Mitrovic can be the Premier League's next Diego Costa

The former Chelsea striker caused havoc for opposing defences - and Aleksandar Mitrovic is starting to do the same

Phil Neville believes there are comparisons to be made between ex-Chelsea striker Diego Costa and Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The Serbian got his fifth goal of the season against Watford to put him back on top of the scoring charts in the Premier League, alongside Eden Hazard, in a game where his physicality in the box caused his opponents problem after problem once more.

Despite being seen as 'old-fashioned', big strikers seem to be making a comeback, with Troy Deeney and Brighton & Hove Albion's Glenn Murray all enjoying a good start to the season as their respective sides look to them as their focal point - and there are similarities between how Costa and Mitrovic both play their football.

Costa was well-known for his aggressive nature and his physical approach to football matches - something that has continued to serve him well in his return to Atletico Madrid.

And it's an approach that has seen Mitrovic score 17 goals for Fulham since signing on loan in February - and former Manchester United man Neville believes Mitrovic and Costa are very similar, while Mark Chapman also reckons he's the man the crowd look to to lift their spirits.


(Image: Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

Speaking on Match of the Day 2, Neville said: "I think with Mitrovic you've got someone who, look, he's not Diego Costa but he has Diego Costa type qualities in terms that he's nasty, he's horrible to play against, he bullies defenders.

"His leap, there's one in the second half where he leaped above Kabasele at a corner and he's hit the bar - it was fantastic, and he's someone that can give them the other option."


Diego Costa (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Mark Chapman: "What he will also do, which is what he did on Saturday, like Diego Costa, is that he will rouse the home fans.

"If it's flat or if they're struggling, fans of any club will know this, if you have that one player in your side who gets you going as a crowd, that will get the team going too."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/aleksandar-mitrovic-can-premier-leagues-15192363

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham star Ryan Sessegnon admits he needs time to improve performances in Premier League


Focused: Ryan Sessegnon on Saturday ( REUTERS )

Ryan Sessegnon admits he needs more time to adapt to the top flight.

The 18-year-old played 90 minutes as Fulham battled back from a goal behind against Watford to earn a point on Saturday but he is yet to have the expected impact on the Premier League.

Manager Slavisa Jokanovic has already called for fans to be patient with the youngster, courted by the Premier League's top clubs over the summer, while he settles into the new enviroment following promotion.

Sessegnon told Standard Sport: "The Premier League has been challenging. I think it has been good for me to grow up and learn, playing at the highest level, but I will need time to perform and the more I play the more I'll improve.

"It has to be a quick learning process if I want to be playing in this team week in, week out."

Mental fatigue among players who featured in the World Cup has been a hot topic this season but Sessegnon is in a similar position.

At just 18, he could make his 90th first-team appearance for Fulham when they face Millwall in the Carabao Cup tomorrow, having played 69 games for club and country since the start of the Under-19 European Championships in July last year.

"The amount of games I've played since last season has had a little effect," he said. "It depends on recovery, after games and before games, having the balance of not doing too much or too little.

"When you are young you always  want to play but recovery is still very important to perform in the next game."

Jokanovic's side were second best for the most part against his old club, but the Serb has preached faith in his philosophy from the outset and it paid off as they grew into the game late on, following two half-time changes. Fulham could well have picked up their second win of the season, too, when, having cancelled out Andre Gray's goal after 90 seconds, Aleksandar Mitrovic rattled Ben Foster's crossbar in injury time.

Sessegnon added: "I think we started sloppy, which is becoming a habit we need to stop, but second half we played well and we're disappointed we didn't get all three points with Mitro's header.

"We never give up, never change  the way we play and we always believe in the way we play and keep going until  the end."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-star-ryan-sessegnon-admits-he-needs-time-to-improve-performances-in-premier-league-a3943971.html

[WhiteJC]

 
The starting 11 changes Everton could make against Fulham in the Premier League

We assess what Marco Silva could do as the Blues host The Cottagers at Goodison Park

How will Everton react after two defeats in a row?

The first came against West Ham after a poor display but the latter at Arsenal was frustrating and could have, and should have, gone better for the Blues.

Missed chances in the first half came back to haunt Marco Silva's side, but it was a lot of good play that led to those opportunities in the first place.

In the second period, a few lapses in concentration let the hosts get a firm grip on the game and there was a definite spell where heads dropped across the board for the Toffees.

Unfortunately, that's an all too common theme over the last few years , and there's no wonder Everton fans are getting a little sick of it.

Yes things could have been better and Marco Silva's side could and probably should have been sitting on more points after the opening few games , but it's worth remembering this is still a new regime getting to grips with this squad.

And that squad still has options to change things up and work itself into a strong winning side.

So, we've had a look at the switches which could potentially happen:

Who should definitely start?

One player who should be one of the first on the team sheet is Richarlison - he started the season in excellent form, was clearly missed during his ban after the red card but came back fighting against Arsenal on Sunday and looked sharp.

Jordan Pickford will keep his place between the sticks - although he's not yet managed to get up to the incredible level of last term just yet.

Apart from those two, you could make cases for any other players to drop out.

Who should definitely drop out?

Admittedly it is difficult to say why anyone should drop out of the side 100%.

Considering Dominic Calvert-Lewin for a moment and you could argue that due to a run of poor displays he could be made to sit this one out by Marco Silva.

However, say the fact he doesn't appear to be playing at his best is down to a lack of confidence and a strong performance or goal might be exactly what is needed to boost that confidence back up.

Everton picked up no injuries against Arsenal so anyone definitely dropping out of the side will be dependent on anyone returning from their respective problems.

Who could drop out and who could come in?

There are, then, a number of possibilities.

Starting at the back and you'd expect Jonjoe Kenny to start with Seamus Coleman still not fully recovered from injury - though if he is deemed fit enough he should instantly reclaim his place.

On the other side Lucas Digne could make way for Leighton Baines - the Frenchman has kept the former England international out of the team with some great displays but the competition is fierce and Marco Silva can change things up should he wish to.

In the heart of defence Yerry Mina is now in full training with the squad and a decision will need to be made over whether he is fit enough to throw into the Fulham game from the start.

If that's the case, then he could make the starting XI for either Kurt Zouma or Michael Keane - who both played against Arsenal though neither would really deserve to be dropped.

There is also Mason Holgate who played poorly against West Ham in the previous game but does give the Blues' manager a different option should he wish for it.

In the midfield Gylfi Sigurdsson is the playmaker and should keep his place and will likely make up a midfield with Idrissa Gana Gueye and Tom Davies who was captain against Arsenal.

Morgan Schneiderlin though is waiting in the wings and could easily reclaim a place from either of the two holding midfielders.

Meanwhile, of course, Bernard was brought off the bench just before half time against West Ham and put in a great display on his first appearance in front of the Goodison Park crowd - making himself one of the only shining lights of the whole game.



https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/starting-11-changes-everton-could-15192650

[WhiteJC]

 
Aleksandar Mitrovic may be Fulham's Diego Costa - but a move to Chelsea would be the wrong step

The Serbian has scored five goals already this season and is starting to find himself linked with clubs like the Blues

It's only taken six games of the Premier League, but Aleksandar Mitrovic's stunning 2018 form has seen him linked with a move across SW6 to Chelsea.

The Serbian netted 12 goals during his half-season loan spell at Craven Cottage last year and has added another five goals this season in the top flight since making his loan permanent in the summer.

It that time he's also scored eight goals for Serbia, making him the most lethal player in the country since his debut against Nottingham Forest back in April.

No surprise, then, that a club like Chelsea have been linked with eyeing up a possible move for him, while pundits are already drawing comparisons between Mitrovic and a former Chelsea striker of a similar ilk: Diego Costa.

But having endured a less than happy experience at Newcastle, why would the 24-year-old want to leave Fulham, a club where everything suits him, from the style of play right down to the head coach himself?

Mitrovic and Fulham are, excuse the cliche, a match made in heaven.

Ever since Mitrovic arrived at the club, everything has suited him and he quickly found a home, something he hadn't had since leaving Anderlecht in 2015.


(Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

And that's the main thing for Mitrovic - he needs an atmosphere where he feels wanted and looked after in order for him to thrive, and that's exactly what he has at Fulham.

When he was at St James' Park, the style of football Newcastle employed under Rafa Benitez wasn't suited to him, which eventually led to a feeling of not being wanted, which in turn meant that they didn't get the best out of him.

At the Cottage, however, Fulham needed a focal point for their attack and Mitrovic was the man to provide it.


(Image: Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

His physicality and his presence means the side now have someone to play to up front, whereas before the intricate play from Tom Cairney and Kevin McDonald would get to the final third but then have nowhere to go.

And that's why Mitrovic is scoring so many goals - what he gives to Fulham in terms of being a focal point he receives back in goals - that's not something he'd get at Chelsea.

Olivier Giroud is enjoying life under new boss Maurizio Sarri as his target man, with Eden Hazard even going as far to say he's the best player in the world and doing that job so far.

Why then, would Mitrovic even consider leaving a club where he is the main man, for one where strikers are so often cast aside without being given a fair crack at the whip?

There's also his relationship with Jokanovic to consider.

The head coach was asked many times last season about being a father figure to the striker, something which prompted several amusing replies ('I'm not his uncle' and 'He has his own father' were my favourites), and although Jokanovic played this down, there's no doubting there is a bond there.

Before coming to Fulham, Mitrovic was seen as a hot-headed youngster who was almost as likely to get sent off as he was to score a stunning goal, but we've seen none of that since his move.

He's only had four yellow cards in all the games he's played under Jokanovic, with Mitrovic now representing a more mature version of the striker we saw at Anderlecht and Newcastle.

Whether that is entirely down to Jokanovic or because Mitrovic is finally at a club that he feels at home at is up for discussion, but there's absolutely no doubting that the head coach has had a massive impact on his form.


(Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

There's no doubting the management style of Sarri, but again, Mitrovic has no reason to swap his countryman for the Chelsea boss at this stage.

And finally, let's not forget the price tag.

Fulham paid big to get their man back from Newcastle in a permanent deal, and Tony Khan will slap a huge amount on Mitrovic's head if he even considers the though of selling him in the future.

Like we saw this summer with Ryan Sessegnon, Fulham will hold onto their big stars despite interest from names like Tottenham Hotspur - it's the same with Mitrovic, Chelsea and any other would-be suitors.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/aleksandar-mitrovic-chelsea-fulham-costa-15167115

[WhiteJC]

 
Seri: Good Point

Jean Michaël Seri is looking at Watford as a point gained rather than two dropped.

Fulham were dealt a blow in the game's infancy when Andre Gray found the net, but Seri was pleased with his side's response against a team who have flown out of the blocks this season.

"It's difficult because they press always, and we didn't have a lot of opportunity to play our football," he said. "The first goal arrived very fast and gave us an uphill battle, but we came away with one point which is good for us.

"I can say it's a good point because this team is very strong and they know what they have to do when they're on the pitch. We fought to win the game, but this point is good for us.

"Every game we play, we play to win. But if we can't win, then we have to make sure we don't lose.

"We took one point against a team who are very difficult to play against, and it's a good result for us."

With the Whites off the pace in the opening 45 minutes, Slaviša Jokanović made a double change at half-time – a decision that paid dividends come the full-time whistle.

"The boss saw it early, which was good for us," Seri explained. "The changes happened and you could see we were better in the second half.

"We have to look at the second half and try and take that into the next game. That was a positive for us and we have to continue like this."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/september/24/jean-michael-seri-good-point

[WhiteJC]

 
Redknapp: Chelsea should sign Fulham star

Chelsea should sign Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, according to Jamie Redknapp.

Mitrovic, signed from Newcastle during the summer after a brilliant spell on loan at Fulham last season, has made a great start to the Premier League campaign for the Whites.

The Serbian has recently been linked with neighbours Chelsea, who have been tipped to bring in a forward in January.

Alvaro Morata continues to struggle in front of goal and there have also been doubts over Olivier Giroud's future.

And former Tottenham and England midfielder Redknapp, now a pundit, believes Mitrovic could be what the Blues need up front.

"He was brilliant leading the line for Fulham against Watford. Gone is the loose cannon who looked like a walking red card when he was at Newcastle," Redknapp wrote in the Daily Mail.

"He has done a lot of growing up in the last three years. Mitrovic is as strong as an ox, brings people into play and is using his aggression in the right way.

"He has five goals already this season and I believe he could play for one of the top Premier League clubs.

"Fulham fans won't thank me for saying this but he would be a perfect fit for Chelsea. Mitrovic is more physical than Alvaro Morata and has more pace than Olivier Giroud.

"As a successor to Didier Drogba and Diego Costa, Mitrovic could fit the bill."



http://londonfootballnews.co.uk/chelsea/redknapp-chelsea-should-sign-fulham-star/

[WhiteJC]

 
Aleksandar Mitrovic: Europe's Most In-Form Striker?

Aleksandar Mitrovic has scored more goals than anyone in England's top four divisions since joining Fulham in February. George Tipper looks at how Mitro has gone from a Newcastle also-ran to one of the most feared strikers in the Premier League in under a year.

Before the big Serbian rocked up at the Thames, Fulham was lacking a focal point. Somebody who could hold the ball up, add a bit of grit to the eye-catching possession-based football Slavisa Jokanovic had installed into our boys. Up stepped Mitrovic.

Rumour has it the deal was done over Snapchat, and whilst it has now been confirmed that it was over Whatsapp that the messages were exchanged between the two countrymen, it wouldn't change anything. On the 1st February, the deal was done.

On 26 May 2018, the date etched into Fulham fans lives forever, Mitrovic had scored 14 goals in 19 games for club and country; and carried the club, almost single-handedly at times, to the playoff final. He wouldn't score that day, but the damage to the rest of the Championship had already been done.

His first game after that jubilant day at Wembley, a 5-1 win against Bolivia, saw Mitrovic score a hat-trick.

In fact, his goalscoring exploits encouraged me so much to whack a one-pound bet on him becoming the top goalscorer at the recent World Cup. But that was merely myself looking through Fulham tinted glasses.  He did net a first World Cup goal, during the 2-1 defeat at the hands of Switzerland. But no more came, perhaps due to lack of a Tom Cairney-esque players in the Serbian ranks...

Regardless, in short, Mitrovic has been dealing in the currency of goals lately. And business is booming.

Before the big Serbian rocked up at the Thames, Fulham was lacking a focal point. Somebody who could hold the ball up, add a bit of grit to the eye-catching possession-based football Slavisa Jokanovic had installed into our boys. Up stepped Mitrovic.

Rumour has it the deal was done over Snapchat, and whilst it has now been confirmed that it was over Whatsapp that the messages were exchanged between the two countrymen, it wouldn't change anything. On the 1st February, the deal was done.

On 26 May 2018, the date etched into Fulham fans lives forever, Mitrovic had scored 14 goals in 19 games for club and country; and carried the club, almost single-handedly at times, to the playoff final. He wouldn't score that day, but the damage to the rest of the Championship had already been done.

His first game after that jubilant day at Wembley, a 5-1 win against Bolivia, saw Mitrovic score a hat-trick.

In fact, his goalscoring exploits encouraged me so much to whack a one-pound bet on him becoming the top goalscorer at the recent World Cup. But that was merely myself looking through Fulham tinted glasses.  He did net a first World Cup goal, during the 2-1 defeat at the hands of Switzerland. But no more came, perhaps due to lack of a Tom Cairney-esque players in the Serbian ranks...

Regardless, in short, Mitrovic has been dealing in the currency of goals lately. And business is booming.

For many, (including myself) he was always a Football Manager wonder kid you just had to have in your team. During his early career where he featured for Belgian side Anderlecht, he added the Belgian Pro League golden boot to his trophy cabinet after scoring 20 goals in 37 games.

As previously addressed, a somewhat blip at Newcastle, where Mitrovic felt Rafa Benitez's system played against his strength, coupled with ill-disciplined performances; means there's still scepticism around his ability to play at the top level. That loss however, is Fulham's gain.

People seem to forget, the man who is on fire is only twenty-four years of age, so he does still have time on his hands. Plenty of years left to keep terrifying defenders and to silence the sceptics for good. Something that us Fulham fans can be very happy about indeed!



https://fulhamish.co.uk/post/2018-09-24-aleksandar-mitrovic-europes-most-in-form-striker/

[WhiteJC]

 
The Stats: Fulham

The statistical preview of our midweek visitors along with a look at past meetings

We head back to Carabao Cup action this Tuesday night with Premier League Fulham visiting The Den in the Third Round – here are the recent stats of The Cottagers along with details of previous meetings between the two clubs.

2018/19:

Premier League current position: 15th – Played 6, Points 5 – Won 1, Drew 2, Lost 3 – Scored 8, Conceded 13 (GD -5)

Top scorer: Aleksandar Mitrovic, five goals

2017/18:

Sky Bet Championship position: 3rd, promoted via Play-Offs

League record: Played 46, Points 88 – Won 25, Drew 13, Lost 8 – Scored 79, Conceded 46 (GD +33)

FA Cup: Third round (lost 0-1 v Southampton (H))

Carabao Cup: Second round (won 0-2 v Wycombe Wanderers (A), lost 0-1 v Bristol Rovers (H))

Top scorer: Ryan Sessegnon, 16 goals

Top assists: Stefan Johansen, nine goals

Most appearances: Ryan Sessegnon, 49 matches (including Play-Offs)

Transfers:

Transfers in: Jean Michael Seri (Nice), Andre Zambo Anguissa (Marseille), Aleksandar Mitrovic (Newcastle United), Alfie Mawson (Swansea City), Joe Bryan (Bristol City), Fabri (Besiktas), Maxime Le Marchand (Nice), Andre Schurrle (Borussia Dortmund, loan), Sergio Rico (Sevilla, loan), Tim Fosu-Mensah (Manchester United, loan), Calum Chambers (Arsenal, loan), Luciano Vietto (Atletico Madrid, loan)

Transfers out: David Button (Brighton & Hove Albion), Ryan Fredericks (West Ham United), George Williams (Forest Green Rovers), Marcelo Djalo (Extremadura, loan), Tayo Edun (Ipswich Town, loan), Rui Fonte (Lille, loan), Cauley Woodrow (Barnsley, loan) 

Past record:

Millwall wins: 14

Draws: 12

Fulham wins: 18

Last five meetings:

20th April 2018 – Millwall 0-3 Fulham: Sessegnon, McDonald, Mitrovic

25th November 2017 – Fulham 1-0 Millwall: Norwood

21st February 2015 – Millwall 0-0 Fulham

16th August 2014 – Fulham 0-1 Millwall: Woolford

21st April 1999 – Fulham 4-1 Millwall: Betsy, Hayles, Symons, Finnan; Shaw



https://www.millwallfc.co.uk/news/2018/september/the-stats-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
Millwall v Fulham Carabao Cup preview


Tim Ream could return for Fulham

Millwall midfielder Ryan Tunnicliffe is a doubt to face former club Fulham in the Carabao Cup.

Tunnicliffe has missed the last two Lions games due to a broken toe having initially played through the pain barrier.

On-loan Sheffield United player Ryan Leonard is cup-tied against the Cottagers, with Jem Karacan in contention to come into Neil Harris' starting XI. Defender Shaun Hutchinson remains sidelined due to a knee injury.

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic does not appear to have any fresh selection concerns ahead of the trip to The Den. Midfielders Tom Cairney (foot) and Neeskens Kebano (ankle) are unlikely to return from injury.

Defender Tim Ream is back in training after a thigh injury and could come into contention. Floyd Ayite, Aboubakar Kamara and Rui Fonte are among the players hoping for rare starts.

Opta stats
Millwall have lost four of their last six matches against Fulham (W1 D1), all in league competition.

Fulham and Millwall have never faced each other in the League Cup. Their last meeting in a cup competition came in the FA Cup in 1964-65 when the Lions won 2-0 in a third-round replay.

Millwall haven't reached the League Cup fourth round since 2005-06, playing in the third round twice since then and losing both times - their last third-round match was a 5-0 hammering at the hands of Wolves in 2011-12.

Fulham have qualified for the fourth round of the League Cup in just two of the last 13 seasons.

Millwall have won four of their last five matches against Premier League opposition at the Den (L1) - all four wins were in the FA Cup, and the one defeat was in the League Cup against Southampton in August 2014.

Goodman's prediction

Millwall are at the bottom end of the Sky Bet Championship and Neil Harris is not at all happy with his players at the moment, which is rare because he normally gets total commitment from that group.

Fulham have made a lot of new signings so whatever Slavisa Jokanovic decide to do I would expect it to be a very strong team and they should have too much quality for Millwall. Away win for me.

Don Goodman predicts: 1-2 (17/2 with Sky Bet)



https://www.skysports.com/football/millwall-vs-fulham/preview/401816

[WhiteJC]

 
Opposition View: Fulham

The inside view of our opponents from their local and regional media...

This season we will be gathering the views from our opponents' local press on their team, progress and hopes for the season. As we prepare to entertain Fulham at The Den in the Carabao Cup Third Round, we have spoken to Ryan O'Donovan, Digital Football Reporter at football.london.

What was your view on Fulham last season?

I thought Fulham started the season extremely slowly, but once they got going they were one of, if not the best side in the entire Championship. Promotion was well deserved on the whole - that 23-game unbeaten run and the Play-Off Final will live long in the memories of Fulham fans.

How would you assess the club's start to the season and transfer business?

It has been an okay start to the Premier League – there have been some good moments mixed in with some bad ones. Aleksandar Mitrovic's early form has been pleasing, but the defensive issues are concerning. The summer transfer business was good, it provided some genuine class players like Jean-Michael Seri to the side, with the owners giving Slavisa Jokanovic the backing to keep the side in the Premier League this year.

Do you feel Fulham can go on and have a solid season in the Premier League?

I do, yes. I think the side showed last season they were a Premier League side, and with the added firepower I haven't got any doubts that they'll be fine this year. Once the team gets to know one another and Jokanovic's tactics better, I think we'll see a much-better Fulham.

What is the general view towards Slavisa Jokanovic – a man who has already proven a lot in English football?

Largely positive, although fans are sometimes left scratching their heads at some of his team selections - which are quickly becoming known as 'Slav Bingo'. Apart from that, he's got the side playing some of the best football they've ever played whilst getting them promoted to the Premier League. There's a lot of love for the Serbian around Craven Cottage.

Do you think the Carabao Cup is a competition Fulham will fancy their chances of mounting a challenge to win?

I'm not sure about win, but it's certainly an opportunity for the club this season. It's been a while since Fulham have had a cup run, and with the side needing games to gel, this competition provides the best opportunity for some early-season momentum. If it all goes to plan, who knows, maybe a trip to Wembley in the new year may beckon.

Who would you describe as Fulham's key men?

It's always a tough one when it's the Carabao Cup and sides like to make changes. Jean-Michael Seri has been phenomenal since signing in the summer - you can see exactly why he nearly signed for Barcelona last season, while Aleksandar Mitrovic is the man scoring the goals for fun at the moment. If either of the two play on Tuesday night, they'll without a doubt be the key players for Jokanovic and Fulham.

Do you think the club will be able to establish themselves in the Premier League again and build from here?

I think so, yes. The Khans are giving the backing that is required to keep Fulham in the Premier League, with the ambition this season to stay up and build on next season. They've turned the Jacksonville Jaguars around in the NFL in America, and they have bold ambitions for Fulham. With the backing being provided, I think Fulham will become a name synonymous with the top flight once again.

Your score prediction for Tuesday night?

The Den was a tough place for Fulham to come to last season and they were rocked by that first half. I think it won't be as electric this time around, and with the squad at Fulham's disposal I think I'll go for 2-1 to the Cottagers.



https://www.millwallfc.co.uk/news/2018/september/opposition-view-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
Team against Millwall 25/09
over on the forum we've been discussing who will play against Millwall in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday...

whitejc
do we want a cup run? as fans I suspect we do, Slaviša may want to concentrate on the league however we all know that winning games brings confidence.

So will we go 'full strength' against a Millwall team who are having a tough time in the Championship but will be looking for revenge against last seasons result, or play the '2nd string' or even give some of the youngsters a game?

I think it'll be mainly the 2nd string players unless Tom and Tim are fit enough and need to gain some 'match fitness', so assuming those two aren't quite ready here's my selection...

I'm assuming that Kebano is fit enough to play


come over to the forum and give us your team...
http://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?topic=67623.0




http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=415

[WhiteJC]

 
A Trip To The Lions Den Beckons In The Carabao Cup As Dreams Of Wembley Start To Gather Momentum

This Tuesday evening, Fulham will make the short trip across London to take on Millwall in the 3rd round of the Carabao Cup.

After beating Exeter City in the previous round, Fulham avoided drawing one of the big guns of the Premier League but were handed a difficult looking tie away to Millwall, South-East London is not the most welcoming of places on a dark midweek evening.

For this tie, we fully expect Slavisa Jokanovic to shuffle his starting eleven, with the boss giving a chance to those who are often on the fringe of things and also a few young players.

The Carabao Cup is, as we always harp on about, one of only two domestic cup competitions that lead to an appearance in a Wembley Final.

Here at Vital Fulham, we're always impressing upon our readership the fact that we believe the club should have aspirations of trying to win the competition, we're guessing our starting eleven, on Tuesday night, will give an indication of the clubs' view on that matter.

But, how does the Vital Fulham readership see this fixture going:



https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/a-trip-to-the-lions-den-beckons-in-the-carabao-cup-as-dreams-of-wembley-start-to-gather-momentum/

[WhiteJC]

 
Millwall's Jem Karacan ready for Fulham

Millwall's Jem Karacan believes his experience can change the Lions fortunes this season.

The 29-year-old, in his second spell with Neil Harris' side, thinks the time he's spent playing in the Premiership, the Champions League and at both ends of the Championship, could prove vital.

"I feel like I've been around a while," said Karacan.

"I've been away in Turkey, in different leagues, I've experienced the lot. Top of this league (with Reading) and down the bottom with Bolton. No one wants to be in and around that battle.

"Things change quickly in this league, one or two wins and you're back in the middle of the table pushing for play offs. That's all it takes, a little spark to kick your season on.

"The performances have been there but unfortunately we've conceded a couple of late goals. But if we keep pushing and fighting things can change quickly."

Karacan was speaking ahead of Fulham's visit to the Den in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night.

He sees the competition as a welcome distraction from the league where Millwall currently sit 22nd with only one win in nine.

"It's nice when the cup comes around, it's a chance to get to Wembley.

"There's a top team coming to the stadium. They had a great season last year and they've bought some quality players. But it's a chance to show how good we are."

Having signed for Millwall in late August on a short term deal Karacan is hoping to get more minutes under his belt and improving his fitness after not having a full pre-season.

"It's nice to get back out on the pitch. Everyone is pushing each other, there's competition for places. I'm looking forward to tomorrow (Tuesday) and getting out there, playing well and to be in the managers thoughts pushing on. The Championship is relentless, two or three a week, everyone is needed, and I'll be there ready to support when I can."



https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/sport/16900003.millwalls-jem-karacan-ready-for-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
Millwall v Fulham
TUE 25 Sept 2018   EFL Cup - Third Round
Venue: The Den

Ryan Tunnicliffe moved to Millwall from Fulham in July 2017

BBC coverage

How to follow:
    Listen on BBC Radio 5 live and BBC local radio; text commentary on the BBC Sport website

TEAM NEWS

Millwall midfielder Ryan Tunnicliffe is unlikely to face former his former club Fulham when the two sides meet in the Carabao Cup.

Tunnicliffe has missed the last two games due to a broken toe, having initially played through the pain.

Fulham midfielders Tom Cairney (foot) and Neeskens Kebano (ankle) are unlikely to return from injury.

Defender Tim Ream is back in training after a thigh injury and could come into contention.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

    Millwall have lost four of their last six matches against Fulham (W1 D1), all in league competition.
    Fulham and Millwall have never faced each other in the League Cup, last meeting in cup competition in the FA Cup in 1964-65 when the Lions won 2-0 in a third-round replay.

Millwall

    Millwall haven't reached the League Cup fourth round since 2005-06, playing in the third round twice since then and losing both times - their last third-round match was a 5-0 hammering at the hands of Wolves in 2011-12.
    Millwall have won four of their last five matches against Premier League opposition at The Den (L1) - all four wins were in the FA Cup, and the one defeat was in the League Cup against Southampton in August 2014.

Fulham

    Fulham have qualified for the fourth round of the League Cup in just two of the last 13 seasons.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45555886

[WhiteJC]

 
Arsenal: Sokratis injury exposes Calum Chambers decision

Sokratis limped off with a sore knee during Arsenal's 2-0 win over Everton. His injury exposes the decision to loan out Calum Chambers in the summer with depth now somewhat limited.

When Arsenal entered the summer transfer window, most people were fairly clear what position should be the priority of this business. While there were issues at goalkeeper, midfield and reserve right-back, all of which were eventually addressed in one way or another, it was centre-back that was seen as the most pertinent problem to resolve.

And it seemed, at least to some extent, that the club agreed. Led by new Head of Recruitment, Sven Mislintat, the Gunners invested approximately £17 million of their precious resources into Borussia Dortmund defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos. Whether he was actually a solution does not matter. Arsenal believed that, in some form or another, he was.

But even with Sokratis in-house, such were the vulnerabilities at the position, there were still some very real concerns about the prospects of the defence for the season ahead. Laurent Koscielny would be unavailable until December, Shkodran Mustafi was hardly seen as dependable, and the depth was provided by three young prospects, none of which could exactly be described as 'reliable'. And then, it was only two young prospects.

Late in the window, Arsenal decided to loan out Calum Chambers, the most experienced and prepared of these alternative options. He would spend the year at Fulham. The decision was queried by many fans at the time. It was risky having just four fit centre-backs available entering the year when two of those combined for 21 career league starts. And now, just six games into the campaign, that risk will be tested.

Sokratis, the man who was signed to solve the centre-back crisis, limped off midway through the first half against Everton on Sunday afternoon. He is said to have a knee problem, although, as of writing, the extent of the issue is not yet known. The club do not seem that concerned and Unai Emery stated that he was substituted as a precaution, but Arsenal's centre-back depth will certainly be called into question.

In the next two weeks, the north London outfit will play four times. It is not inconceivable that Sokratis could miss all four matches before hopefully recovering during the October international break. If that is the case, or if it so transpires that he is set to miss more time than that, then I am sure that Emery would quite like to have Chambers on hand to use.

Obviously, it is not possible to predict injuries and, at the start of the season, it was very plausible to believe that Koscielny could return before any suspension or injury struck. But this complaint is not coming out of hindsight. Questions were asked when Chambers first departed in August. Now, those questions are coming to pass.

Let's hope that Sokratis' injury is not serious and that Rob Holding and Konstantinos Mavropanos are capable of filling in for him. But, for now, this is a concerning development that casts doubt on the decision to allow Chambers to leave in the summer.



https://paininthearsenal.com/2018/09/24/arsenal-sokratis-injury-exposes-calum-chambers-decision/

[WhiteJC]

 
Cottage Talk: The Player Ratings Show: Fulham vs. Watford
Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

This is a new feature on Cottage Talk that focuses on player ratings for the Fulham players. During the show, we discussed the ratings and commentary of Ryan O'Donovan from Football.London for Fulham against Watford. Co-host Max Cohen from The Boot Room commented on his ratings, and also shared his own

This is a brand new feature, so please let us know what you thought of this episode?


you can listen to the podcast here...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/9/24/17897086/cottage-talk-the-player-ratings-show-fulham-vs-watford

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham want Lyon forward Maxwel Cornet?

Fulham are reportedly interested in signing Lyon forward Maxwel Cornet.

The 21-year-old played a key role in his side's Champions League clash with Manchester City, scoring the opening goal at the Etihad Stadium as the visitors secured a 2-1 victory.

According to The Sun, the Cottagers are preparing a bid for the Ivorian striker and are willing to pay £18m to land him next summer.

The report also claims that Fulham wanted the player previously, but were put off by the high price tag at the time.

Cornet has 18 goals in 97 appearances for the Ligue 1 club.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/fulham-want-lyon-forward-maxwel-cornet_336634.html