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

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EFL CUP PREVIEW: Millwall vs. Fulham

MILLWALL boss Neil Harris will make a number of changes to his side for the third round of the EFL Cup against Fulham at The Den on Tuesday night.

Ryan Leonard and Tom Bradshaw are cup-tied, while Ryan Tunnicliffe is a doubt as he recovers from a broken toe.

Jem Karacan could make his second start in midfield, with Tom Elliott leading the line. Goalkeeper Jordan Archer is also in contention.

Harris could take the opportunity to rest players such as Jake Cooper and James Meredith.

Premier League Fulham won't be at full strength, with midfielders Tom Cairney and Neeskens Kebano are set to miss the game through injury.

Possible Millwall starting XI:
4-4-2: Amos; Romeo, M Wallace, Cooper, McLaughlin; Skalak, Karacan, Williams, Ferguson; Gregory, Elliott.

Match odds:

Millwall 15/8 Draw 5/2 Leeds 5/4

Last season's Championship meetings:

Fulham 1-0 Millwall (Norwood pen 46'); Millwall 0-3 Fulham (R Sessegnon 46', McDonald 56', Mitrovic 89')



https://www.newsatden.co.uk/68992-efl-cup-preview-millwall-vs-fulham.html

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Jokanovic to make 6 changes: Predicted 4-3-3 Fulham XI to face Millwall in the League Cup

Predicted Fulham line-up to face Millwall in the League Cup

Aleksandar Mitrovic's late equalizer ensured the Cottagers were able to rescue a point against Watford at home on Saturday. Fulham haven't played too badly but they do not have the results to show for their efforts either. With only one win out of their first six games, Slavisa Jokanovic's men currently sit 15th in the standings.

Fulham successfully overcame Exeter City in the second round of the League Cup and the Cottagers must aim to edge past Millwall in the third round on Wednesday.
Team News

Neeskens Kebano and Tom Cairney continue their recovery from ankle injuries and will miss the game on Wednesday. Barring the two players, Jokanovic will have his entire squad of players to choose from.
Predicted Fulham XI to face Millwall
Manager: Slavisa Jokanovic
Formation: 4-3-3

Fabri (GK)

He started the first couple of games in the Premier League and made some good saves. Jokanovic should hand him an opportunity and rest Marcus Bettinelli.

Cyrus Christie (RB)

The Irishman played against Manchester City and struggled against the pace of the opposition. However, Jokanovic should rotate the squad and offer him a start ahead of Timothy Fosu-Mensah.

Denis Odoi (CB)

The Belgian should start ahead of Alfie Mawson, who had a disappointing outing against Watford and made far too many mistakes.

Maxime Le Marchand (CB)

The Frenchman started the earlier games in the Premier League and looked pretty impressive with his defending. Jokanovic should get him back into the line-up in place of Calum Chambers.

Ryan Sessegnon (LB)

The teenager has shown glimpses of his brilliance this season and is unlikely to be fatigued by the tiring schedule of games. Should start on Wednesday.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa (CM)

The youngster from Cameroon has looked impressive in the heart of the midfield and should replace Kevin Mcdonald on Wednesday.

Jean Michael Seri (LCM)

The Ivorian has set the stage on fire in the Premier League and Fulham should be looking to use him intelligently in the League Cup game, given that he shouldn't be too tired for the weekend.

Floyd Ayite (RCM)

The Togo international hasn't had too many opportunities to start in the Premier League and this is a good chance for Jokanovic to rotate his team and give him a go.

Luciano Vietto (RW)

The Argentine has been in impressive form and has linked the play well in the final third. He must start on Wednesday.

Andre Schurrle (LW)

The German has been another standout performer for the Cottagers this season and should start on Wednesday, given that Fulham do not have a quality replacement on the left wing.

11. Aboubakar Kamara (ST)

The Frenchman's game time has only been limited to a couple of substitute appearances in the Premier League. However, he played in the last round of the League Cup and should start once again in place of Mitrovic.



http://www.mediareferee.com/2018/09/25/jokanovic-to-make-6-changes-predicted-4-3-3-fulham-xi-to-face-millwall-in-the-league-cup/

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Seri: Fulham must build on improved second half against Watford

Jean Michael Seri says Fulham must build on their improved second-half showing against Watford when they meet Millwall in the Carabao Cup.

The Whites struggled in the opening period of Saturday's Premier League game against the Hornets before hitting back to snatch a point in a 1-1 draw.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side return to action on Tuesday evening when they travel across London to face the Lions at The Den.

And Ivory Coast international Seri has urged his team-mates to pick up where they left off.

"The boss saw it early, which was good for us," Seri said of the poor first-half display against Watford.

"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."

The weekend result left Fulham with five points from six fixtures and just one win.

Top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic's fifth goal of the season earned the draw against Watford after Andre Gray opened the scoring at Craven Cottage inside two minutes.

"Every game we play, we play to win. But if we can't win, then we have to make sure we don't lose," added Seri, a summer signing from Nice.

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



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/seri-fulham-need-to-build-on-improved-second-half-against-watford

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Jokanovic to make 8 changes – Predicted 4-3-3 Fulham XI to face Millwall in the EFL Cup

Predicted Fulham line-up to face Millwall in the Carabao Cup

Fulham would look continue their cup ambition when they face Millwall in the third round of the Carabao Cup away at the Den. Slavisa Jokanovic's men got a deserved draw against Watford on Saturday after in form striker Aleksandar Mitrovic scored yet another goal for the Cottagers.

They will face a Millwall team who lost to West Brom in the weekend. For Fulham, rotation of squad could be necessary as a tough trip to Everton in the league awaits next Saturday.
Team News

Neeskens Kebano's ankle is getting better and he is expected to be back in early October. Tom Cairney and Tim Ream could get back to full fitness by next week. In any case, Jokanovic would be making some changes, just like he did for the previous round.
Probable Fulham XI
Formation – 4-3-3
Manager – Slavisa Jokanovic
Sergio Rico (GK)

The Spanish keeper, on loan from Sevilla, hasn't received a first-choice role in league games. Expect him to be in goal for the cup games.

Cyrus Christie (RB)

With Timothy Fosu-Mensah starting in the weekend, we can expect Christie to start this midweek game at right-back.
Alfie Mawson (CB)

The former Swansea man needs more time get back to full fitness. Hence, he may start against Millwall.

Maxime Le Marchand (CB)

Calum Chambers has looked good in the league games but expect him to get a rest. Le Marchand should start this game.
Joe Bryan (LB)

Bryan has been in and out of the team thus far. He would be looking to claim his place at left-back by performing well against Millwall if he gets the chance.
Ibrahima Cisse (CDM)

The Guinean started as the defensive midfielder in the last round. He might get another opportunity in this cup tie.
Stefan Johansen (LCM)

With Jean Michael Seri expected to get a rest for this game, Johansen could switch to the left-hand side of the midfield on Tuesday.
Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa (RCM)

The new summer signing hasn't been able to nail down his place in the team. He probably will start against Millwall.
Andre Schurrle (LW)

It's a good selection headache for Jokanovic as he scratches his head to select one of Andre Schurrle or Luciano Vietto. He might go with the former this midweek.
Rui Fonte (ST)

The Portuguese striker is down the pecking order at the club as Mitrovic is scoring goals for fun in the league at the moment. He may have to settle for chances in cup competitions.
Aboubakar Kamara (RW)

The Frenchman scored both the goals in Fulham's second round tie versus Exeter City. Expect him to start this game on the right wing.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/09/25/jokanovic-to-make-8-changes-predicted-4-3-3-fulham-xi-to-face-millwall-in-the-efl-cup/

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Profit Players: Aleksandar Mitrovic

Newcastle United supporters have been reasonably satisfied in recent times after seeing their team pick up their second point of the Premier League season on Saturday.

Rafa Benitez's men went into their meeting with Crystal Palace having lost four of their opening five league games, albeit those defeats did come at the hands of Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Arsenal. And the Magpies doubled their points' tally at Selhurst Park at the weekend in drawing 0-0 with Roy Hodgson's misfiring Palace, a result which leaves the North East giants in the bottom three, but did at least end their three-match losing run.

Thus, there have been many satisfied Newcastle fans up and down the country in recent times, although they are unlikely to be overly thrilled with the goal-scoring exploits of Aleksandar Mitrovic, who they sold to fellow top-flight outfit Fulham during the summer.

And while Benitez's side made a £9 million profit on the Serbia international, they are being the shown the error of their ways given the striker's outstanding start to the new Premier League season, alongside the Magpies' own difficulties in front of goal.

Ultimately, things didn't really work out for the 24-year-old at St James' Park during his three-year stint at the club between 2015 and 2018, with the forward mustering just 17 goals in 72 appearances for the Magpies.

And in managing just four goals in 26 Championship appearances for Benitez's side in their run to the second tier title in 2016/17, it on the surface looked like the right call to let Mitrovic go during the summer, as the striker simply failed to regularly produce the goods for the North East heavyweights.

However, his brilliant form for Fulham, both this term and indeed last season in the Championship, highlights that things aren't wrong with the 24-year-old, but instead Newcastle as a whole.

The Serbian star has been sensational for Slavisa Jokanovic's men in netting 16 goals in just 27 appearances for the Cottagers, 12 of which coming in 17 league games last term to help them reach the Championship play-off final, which they won 1-0 over Aston Villa at Wembley – thus, why couldn't he produce that level of performance on Tyneside?

And while some weren't overly sure whether Mitrovic could reproduce that level of performance in the top-flight, he has proven those doubters wrong so far in bagging five goals in just six Premier League games for the West London outfit – and given Fulham have only netted eight times overall, it's clear that he is a hugely influential figure at Craven Cottage.

And all this must serve as massive frustration to Newcastle supporters up and down the country, as Mitrovic looks and simply is a completely different player for Fulham than he was during his time on Tyneside – and given how blunt the Magpies have looked going forward in the last 12 months, the Fulham Mitrovic would be a huge asset to Benitez's side.

As such, while the North East giants did make a £9 million profit on the forward, having signed him for £13 million back in 2015 and then selling him for £22 million during the summer, it's a situation which shows everything that is wrong at Newcastle United, given Mitrovic has gone on to become the player his potential always suggested he could be by moving to Fulham – a player that rarely produced that level of performance at St James' Park.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/newcastle-united/profit-players-aleksandar-mitrovic-3/

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Tactics Explained | Slaviša Jokanović's Fulham

With Mitrovic as the focal point, Fulham could be mistaken for something of a one-trick pony in the top flight, but the structure of the midfield cleverly enables fluidity and attacking threat to flourish.



After sealing their return to the Premier League, Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic set about making some changes and bringing in reinforcements.

In the summer transfer window, he brought in just shy of £100m worth of new faces.

They paid £27m for Nice midfielder Jean Michael Seri, £15m for Swansea defender Alfie Mawson and £18m to bring back Newcastle's Serbian international Aleksandr Mitrovic to Craven Cottage.

Jokanovic laid down an early marker to his squad, by employing rotation, after defeats in their opening two games, to Crystal Palace and Tottenham.


https://www.tifofootball.com/video/tactics-explained-slavisa-jokanovics-fulham/

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Mawel Cornet the kind of coup to take exciting Fulham to an entirely new level

Fulham had Aleksandar Mitrovic to thank yet again as the Serbian rescued a point for his side against Watford.

The Cottagers have found life difficult in the Premier League thus far, winning only one of their opening six fixtures. After being soundly beaten by Manchester City, a visit from in-form Watford was next. A goal from Andre Gray looked to condemn the Londoners to another defeat before Mitrovic levelled the score with a smart finish with just over ten minutes remaining.

His goal against the Hornets take his tally for the season to five – joint top of the Premier League scoring charts alongside Eden Hazard. The Serb will be vital if Slavisa Jokanovic's side are to avoid the drop this season. Therefore, Fulham must do everything they can to provide him with as much ammunition as possible.

To do so, they should definitely target Lyon wonderkid, Maxwel Cornet, when the January transfer window reopens. Valued at £13.5m by Transfermarkt, the 21-year-old's talents were on show for the world to see during the recent Champions League match against Manchester City where he scored the winning goal to cap a fine individual performance. Reports have suggested Fulham officials were impressed with the showing and will line up a £18m bid in January.

Cornet possesses terrifying pace which would add another dimension to the Fulham forward line. His speed remains his primary asset, but his excellent skill on the ball also makes him a nightmare for defenders to deal with. At just 21-years-old, the Ivorian is only going to improve with time and Fulham should be the team to benefit.

Landing Cornet in the New Year could be the boost the Cottagers need to secure safety in the Premier League.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham/mawel-cornet-the-kind-of-coup-to-take-exciting-fulham-to-an-entirely-new-level/

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'a perfect fit' Chelsea told Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic could be their new Diego Costa or Didier Drogba by ex-England man

Alvaro Morata has struggled to impress at Stamford Bridge and Maurizio Sarri has been urged to look across London for a replacement

Aleksandar Mitrovic could be Chelsea's new Diego Costa.

That's according to Jamie Redknapp, with the former Liverpool and England star claiming the Serbian striker has the talent to lead the line for a top Premier League club.

Mitrovic struggled at Newcastle after arriving in a £13m deal from Anderlecht in 2015 but has revived his carerer in England since moving to Fulham in January, initially on loan before making the move permanent in the summer.
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Having helped fire Fulham to the Premier League last season with 12 goals in 17 games, he has continued his fine form into the top-flight this term.

The 24-year-old has netted five times in six league matches and currently tops the goalscoring charts.

Chelsea are reportedly looking at the frontman with Alvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud not exactly setting the world alight at Stamford Bridge – and Redknapp reckons Mitrovic could just be what the Blues need.

"He was brilliant leading the line for Fulham against Watford," he  wrote in the Daily Mail.

"Gone is the loose cannon who looked like a walking red card when he was at Newcastle. 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."



https://talksport.com/football/425911/chelsea-fulham-aleksandar-mitrovic-diego-costa/

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Millwall boss will make changes for cup tie against Fulham – with ex-Whites midfielder a selection doubt

Millwall manager Neil Harris will make changes for tonight's EFL Cup tie against Fulham – with Ryan Tunnicliffe looking unlikely to feature against his former club.

The Lions' 17-game unbeaten run in the Championship was ended by Slavisa Jokanovic's side in late April. Fulham went on to win promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs.

Tunnicliffe, who made 50 league appearances for the Whites, missed Saturday's 2-0 defeat at West Bromwich Albion with a broken toe.

"With Tunni it is a pain thing – we'll have to look at his availability on Tuesday," said Harris. "We have got some kicks and bruises from the weekend.

"There will be some personnel who played at the weekend that will be missing because of it. It will be an opportunity for some of our players out of the U23s and certainly some others who have been waiting to play.

"Tunni might be back on the training pitch at the start of this week. The game will have extra spice and he'll want to be out there, with Fulham being his old club.

"There will be changes. We are searching for that successful formula. We are also in the middle of a relentless run of fixtures that has seen nearly every Championship manager moan about it over the course of the last four days. Next week we go Saturday–Wednesday–Saturday again, it really is astonishing we find ourselves in this position.

"We have got nine games in four weeks and that is a big ask – it's a big ask for top sides who have a squad of 23 or 24 players. With us having a smaller squad it is even tougher.

"But we'll try to use the cups as an positive. That has been the case in the past with the FA Cup and Checkatrade Trophy. We've had two wins [in the EFL Cup this season] and that has built momentum in small doses.

"This is an opportunity for us to play against a Premier League side in a derby and get back on the grass. We know it's a tough game because Fulham have an outstanding squad and have added really well in the summer to the quality they already had. They have still dominated the ball in the Premier League.

"It will be a physical test for us without the ball and when we win it there will be fatigue in the legs from the work put in – we have to use the ball really wisely and really concentrate.

"I'm looking for a positive outcome – whether that is a result or performance over the 90 minutes. We're trying to build in small steps."



https://www.londonnewsonline.co.uk/millwall-boss-will-make-changes-for-cup-tie-against-fulham-with-ex-whites-midfielder-a-selection-doubt/

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October Home Games

Fulham fans can now purchase up to four tickets each for the Whites' home Premier League games this October.

Arsenal

Fulham return to Craven Cottage when we take on Arsenal on Sunday 7th October, kick-off 12pm.

Season Ticket Holders, Members and supporters with a Booking History can now purchase up to four tickets each for the London derby.

AFC Bournemouth

Rounding off the month, we take on AFC Bournemouth in SW6 on Saturday 27th October, kick-off 3pm, with tickets now available to all supporters on General Sale.

Prices for both fixtures start from £30 adults and £20 juniors and supporters can secure their seat today online, by phone on 0203 871 0810 (Opt 1) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.
Buy online

All tickets are subject to availability. Terms & Conditions and booking fees apply.
In order to purchase tickets for Fulham v Arsenal, supporters are advised that their 18/19 Membership must have been purchased prior to Friday 17th August 2018.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/september/25/arsenal-and-bournemouth-tickets

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A Look At... Fulham

The lowdown on our Carabao Cup visitors

The busy run of games continues for Neil Harris' Lions following the weekend defeat at West Bromwich Albion as they prepare to face Slavisa Jokanovic's Fulham side on Tuesday night (kick-off 7.45pm) in the Carabao Cup Third Round.

The all-London clash sees Fulham visit The Den on the back of a 1-1 Premier League draw at Craven Cottage against Watford, a result which sees them sit 15th in the top flight. The Lions are looking to respond from the past week in the Sky Bet Championship, suffering away losses at Queens Park Rangers and Darren Moore's West Brom.

Fulham

Founded 139 years ago, South-West Londoners Fulham have been members of the English League since its inception. The club have spent the majority of their existence in the top two divisions, although have experienced spells at all four levels of the League pyramid.

The club made their Premier League return in the summer after a four-year stint in the Championship – The Cottagers had previously been in the top flight for 13 years, during which time they enjoyed European football on three occasions. They even reached the Europa League Final in 2010 following a memorable run, famously leaving Juventus in their wake with an iconic comeback at Craven Cottage.

Fulham's recent years in the Premier League saw them peak in seventh place under Roy Hodgson, continuing momentum from their 'great escape' under the former England boss the previous season. After a season of uncertainty and a trio of different managers finished in relegation in 2014, Fulham initially struggled to adapt to the second tier, but have assembled a young and shrewd squad to earn promotion and compete further.

Last season was Fulham's third promotion into the top flight, alongside their triumphs of 1959 and 2001. The club reached their sole FA Cup Final in 1975 against West Ham United, and won the UEFA Intertoto Cup along with Malaga and Stuttgart in 2002.

Ones to Watch

Ryan Sessegnon (3) has been a name on the lips of football fans around the world in the last two years. Having only turned 18 in May, the two-time PFA Team of the Year representative is remarkably already approaching 100 senior appearances for Fulham, and has scored 23 goals from a wide-left berth. Originally a left-back, the teenager found form in a role further forward particularly in his more recent months at Fulham, topping the team's scoring chart last season with 16 strikes. With all eyes on him last campaign, Sessegnon consistently delivered with displays belying his tender years contributing to promotion, and has broken several records including becoming the first 2000-born player to score in the English leagues in August 2016. Inevitably involved in England talk despite his age, the dynamic wide man made his U21 debut this year, and twin brother Steven is also a prospect in the Fulham squad.

Jean Michael Seri (24) was brought in by Jokanovic in the summer for a large sum after impressing for Nice as they secured a top-eight finish in Ligue 1. The central midfielder can be deployed as a deep-lying playmaker, possessing a great passing range and keen eye for a shot from distance. An Ivory Coast international since 2015, the 27-year-old is enjoying his first experience of the Premier League and had previously been linked with the likes of Barcelona, Arsenal and Manchester United following his remarkable displays in France. Seri began his senior career in his homeland with ASEC Mimosas, and established himself in Europe with Portuguese outfit Pacos de Ferreira. Joining Nice in 2015, the diminutive midfield man made the Ligue 1 Team of the Year in 2017. Although not in the squad for Fulham's Second Round victory over Exeter City, he could be drafted in tonight for a tough battle against The Lions.

Aboubakar Kamara (47) could continue to be a key player for The Cottagers in this competition after firing both goals in their 2-0 Exeter win. Affectionately known as 'AK47', the forward signed for Fulham in the summer of 2017, scoring seven goals last season whilst competing for a place with the likes of wide men Sessegnon and Neeskens Kebano, and the team's centre-forwards. A graduate of the Monaco academy, Kamara made two first-team appearances for the club before a stint in Belgium with Kortrijk and a successful period with Amiens. Still only 23, this is Kamara's first opportunity in a Premier League squad – something he is pushing for with his Carabao Cup form.

Aleksandar Mitrovic (9) has been on fire in the early stages of this season. Originally signing on loan from Newcastle United last year, the Serbian scored 12 goals in 17 Championship appearances and is currently the joint-top scorer in the Premier League with five in six games. His prolific record for Fulham has been matched for notable previous clubs Partizan Belgrade and Anderlecht, and attracted the attention of Newcastle in 2015, for whom he scored 17 goals. Tall, strong and imposing – despite a temperamental discipline which has recently been curbed – Mitrovic is one of the country's most in-form strikers and has been considered a real coup for Fulham having signed his permanent deal. Likely to start among the substitutes at The Den, the 24-year-old already has 42 Serbia caps, scoring 19 goals and becoming the nation's biggest threat going forward.


In the Dugout

Slavisa Jokanovic has undoubtedly earned his stripes both as a manager and a player. The 50-year-old triumphed emphatically in his first job at Partizan Belgrade, winning the domestic double in each of his two full seasons in charge. He then led Muangthong United to an unbeaten season as they lifted their third Thai Premier League trophy in 2012, and won promotion in his sole season at Watford – his first English football experience – in 2015, following spells in Bulgaria and Spain. A short stint in Israel was then followed by his appointment at Fulham in 2015, where he secured his second Championship promotion and oversaw the impressive strengthening of the Cottagers' squad over the summer. A former midfielder, Jokanovic represented numerous clubs including a spell at Chelsea in the early 2000s, as well as obtaining 64 Yugoslavia caps.



https://www.millwallfc.co.uk/news/2018/september/a-look-at...-fulham/

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Changes galore expected as Millwall host Fulham in EFL Cup derby

Millwall boss Neil Harris is expected to make a raft of changes for Tuesday's derby against Fulham in the EFL Cup but Ryan Tunnicliffe will not face his former club.

Tunnicliffe is expected to return to full training this week following a broken toe but the third-round match at the Den comes too soon for the midfielder.

Defender Shaun Hutchinson (knee) remains Millwall's only long-term absentee, while on-loan Ryan Leonard is cup-tied.

Harris is expected to make six or seven changes from Saturday's 2-0 defeat at West Brom, with Tom Elliott, Aidan O'Brien, Jem Karacan and Jed Wallace likely to start.

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic is also set to experiment after saying he wanted to "discover something new" about his squad following the 1-1 draw with Watford on Saturday.

Jokanovic made 11 changes for the second-round win over Exeter and Tim Ream could be among the players to come in after returning to training following a thigh injury.

Midfielders Tom Cairney (foot) and Neeskens Kebano (ankle) remain sidelined, with Floyd Ayite, Rui Fonte and Aboubakar Kamara, who scored twice in the second-win over Exeter, among the players hoping to feature.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/changes-galore-expected-as-millwall-host-fulham-in-efl-cup-derby-a3945086.html

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Fulham must change style to remain in Premier League

Fulham reached the Premier League with elegance and ambition, becoming favourites among many neutrals for their possession-based game. In the English top tier, where technical and physical expertise overrides charm, the Cottagers struggle. Slavisa Jokanovic must conjure a better alternative.

Despite a 3-0 thrashing to Manchester City, where they were second best for large periods of the game, Pep Guardiola spoke highly of Jokanovic's attacking brand. Both graduated from the same school of thought, disciples of aesthetically pleasing styles based on movement and possession. Unlike the Serb, the Spaniard has mastered the craft.

I give a lot of credit to Fulham. Fulham asked a lot from us because they want to play with good build-up - they didn't come here to defend with long balls and set pieces. They came here to play. I like to watch these kinds of teams.


Guardiola's remark somewhat undermines the current situation in West London. Fulham isn't doing well. The Whites could only dicker a share of the spoils with Watford when they returned to Craven Cottage on Saturday. Aleksandar Mitrovic spared Jokanovic's blushes late on after Andre Gray's early strike.

Fulham's keenly anticipated Premier League return following a four-year absence is off to the worst possible start. Despite having two-thirds of the ball, they were outwitted by former boss Roy Hodgson's Crystal Palace. Tottenham displayed little compassion when they visited. Although the Cottagers offered promise against Burnley, it faded in subsequent matches.

Overall, Fulham has picked up maximum points just once and lost everything thrice. They've shipped in an alarming 13 goals, third-worst in the division. Only eight have troubled opponents. Serb poacher Mitrovic alone contributed five, highlighting his influence in the team.

Fulham was fearless last term. Their passing was crisp and precise, with purpose. They didn't just knock it around for fun and their pace gave them a cutting edge. The Cottagers bossed possession in the Championship with 57.8%. When the ball was lost, they won it back quickly, pressing ferociously in packs.

While retaining the squad's spine, Jokanovic splashed almost £100 million to supplement them. Jean Michael Seri alone cost one-quarter of that figure. Andre Schurrle, Luciano Vietto, Sergio Rico and Timothy Fosu-Mensah are high-profile recruits who joined on loan. Despite these arrivals, the gaffer has held on to the system that suited him so well in the Championship.

It isn't working. Jokanovic has all his eggs in passing football's basket. Tom Cairney and Seri can rack up over a hundred passes per game while creating chances in closer proximity to attack, counting on Mitrovic to bury those openings when they come. However, the system exposes them on the counter-attack.

As with most attacking sides, Fulham operates a high defensive line, implementing variations on their press, responding to certain triggers before harrying their opponents in an attempt to win the ball high up the pitch. Despite these obvious flaws, the 50-year-old is as headstrong as Guardiola. He refuses to change his system.

We are not going to change the style. We are not going to hit balls or park the bus. It would not be a good plan. The Premier is very demanding. We need to change things, but we are not going to give up our style

Jankovic must find an alternative approach. A more conservative style would provide balance. He doesn't necessarily need to park the bus. Maybe just drive a little slower. He can be more selective when pressing. As long as the goals stop coming, the Cottagers will win games.



https://www.itsroundanditswhite.co.uk/articles/fulham-must-change-style-remain-premier-league

[WhiteJC]

 
Who Fulham's Stefan Johansen voted for in FIFA's The Best awards

The midfielder had a vote in the awards as captain of Norway - and his votes won't come as a surprise to anyone

Monday night saw Real Madrid and Croatia's Luke Modric take home FIFA's The Best award - the first time since 2007 that neither Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo won the title.

It was no surprise really - the 33-year-old was instrumental as Madrid won their third Champions League title in a row by beating Liverpool in May, while he also helped guide his country to the World Cup final, where they were beaten by France in Russia.

The last man to take the title that wasn't named Messi or Ronaldo was Kaka, back in 2007, but if it was up to Fulham's Stefan Johansen, Modric wouldn't have been the next man to do so.

As captain of Norway, the 27-year-old is allowed a vote in the award to decide who 'The Best' player in the world is, as well as who the best Men's Coach is too.

Johansen was named as Norway skipper back in March 2017, and then in December of that same year signed an equal-pay agreement, alongside women's captain Maren Mjelde, that would see both the national team's male and female players paid the same amount.

And now, the three players he voted for FIFA's The Best award has been revealed - with Messi Johansen's first choice for the award.

Next up was Ronaldo in second and then the eventual winner Modric in third.

And now, the three players he voted for FIFA's The Best award has been revealed - with Messi Johansen's first choice for the award.

Next up was Ronaldo in second and then the eventual winner Modric in third.

Deschamps took the award home, however, having led France to their second World Cup.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/who-fulhams-stefan-johansen-voted-15197580

[WhiteJC]

 
Everton and Fulham went on scouting mission at the weekend, old Toffees target scores

Fulham and Everton both reportedly sent scouts to the Portuguese league match between Vitória de Setúbal and Porto on Saturday.

The current league champions got an important three points with a 2-0 away win, and keep trying to reach Benfica at the top of the table.

Porto's goals were scored by Sergio Oliveira and Vincent Aboubakar. The striker's name may sound familiar to Everton fans, as the club were linked to him in 2017. He's one of Porto's players who's frequently involved in transfer rumours, especially Premier League stories.

On Fulham's side, it's worth recalling that they were linked to Hector Herrera. He's captained Porto in this game, and had a regular performance. As his contract expires at the end of the season, we can expect a lot of new rumours showing up in the next few months.

Back to midfielder Sérgio Oliveira, who scored from a free-kick, it seems he has finally found his best form at Porto, and was picked as the man of the match by the local press. For Vitória, winger Berto had an impressive performance and was much praised.

Scouts from Shakhtar Donetsk, Atletico Madrid and Sevilla have all travelled to watch this match as well.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/everton-fulham-went-scouting-mission-weekend-old-toffees-target-scores/

[gerrys]

Jokanovic to make 8 changes – Predicted 4-3-3 Fulham XI to face Millwall in the EFL Cup

Predicted Fulham line-up to face Millwall in the Carabao Cup

Fulham would look continue their cup ambition when they face Millwall in the third round of the Carabao Cup away at the Den. Slavisa Jokanovic's men got a deserved draw against Watford on Saturday after in form striker Aleksandar Mitrovic scored yet another goal for the Cottagers.

They will face a Millwall team who lost to West Brom in the weekend. For Fulham, rotation of squad could be necessary as a tough trip to Everton in the league awaits next Saturday.
Team News

Neeskens Kebano's ankle is getting better and he is expected to be back in early October. Tom Cairney and Tim Ream could get back to full fitness by next week. In any case, Jokanovic would be making some changes, just like he did for the previous round.
Probable Fulham XI
Formation – 4-3-3
Manager – Slavisa Jokanovic
Sergio Rico (GK)

The Spanish keeper, on loan from Sevilla, hasn't received a first-choice role in league games. Expect him to be in goal for the cup games.

Cyrus Christie (RB)

With Timothy Fosu-Mensah starting in the weekend, we can expect Christie to start this midweek game at right-back.
Alfie Mawson (CB)

The former Swansea man needs more time get back to full fitness. Hence, he may start against Millwall.

Maxime Le Marchand (CB)

Calum Chambers has looked good in the league games but expect him to get a rest. Le Marchand should start this game.
Joe Bryan (LB)

Bryan has been in and out of the team thus far. He would be looking to claim his place at left-back by performing well against Millwall if he gets the chance.
Ibrahima Cisse (CDM)

The Guinean started as the defensive midfielder in the last round. He might get another opportunity in this cup tie.
Stefan Johansen (LCM)

With Jean Michael Seri expected to get a rest for this game, Johansen could switch to the left-hand side of the midfield on Tuesday.
Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa (RCM)

The new summer signing hasn't been able to nail down his place in the team. He probably will start against Millwall.
Andre Schurrle (LW)

It's a good selection headache for Jokanovic as he scratches his head to select one of Andre Schurrle or Luciano Vietto. He might go with the former this midweek.
Rui Fonte (ST)

The Portuguese striker is down the pecking order at the club as Mitrovic is scoring goals for fun in the league at the moment. He may have to settle for chances in cup competitions.
Aboubakar Kamara (RW)

The Frenchman scored both the goals in Fulham's second round tie versus Exeter City. Expect him to start this game on the right wing.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/09/25/jokanovic-to-make-8-changes-predicted-4-3-3-fulham-xi-to-face-millwall-in-the-efl-cup/

What a weird team-sheet....too many regular players..........PLUS Rui Fonte  064.gif

[WhiteJC]

 
Wholesale changes expected as Jokanovic hands out minutes - predicted Fulham XI to face Millwall

The two meet in a London derby in the Carabao Cup tonight and Slavisa Jokanovic is expected to ring the changes once more

Fulham travel to the Den to take on Millwall this evening in the third round of the Carabao Cup, with decisions looming for head coach Slavisa Jokanovic.

He made 11 changes for the second round tie with Exeter City as he looked to give all his squad game time, but with one of the leakiest defences in the Premier League, Jokanovic will need to juggle giving fringe players minutes with continuing to bed in his new players.

Tonight's trip to Millwall provides him with a good opportunity to test out his new-look defence once more, especially after the first-half horror show against Watford that saw the back four look like they'd never met one another before, let alone played together.

However, the Premier League is the priority this season and survival is key for the side's long-term ambitions, so the trip to Millwall also provides Fulham the opportunity to make sure that squad members are match fit and ready for the games that lie ahead of the side.

Here's how our reporter, Ryan O'Donovan, thinks the side will line up at the Den tonight.

"It's a bit of a dilemma for Jokanovic tonight - after Saturday's performance, I see this as a great chance to play a full-strength defence to ensure they get on board with one another more and get Saturday out of their systems.

"However, squad players need minutes to make sure they're prepared to play in the Premier League whenever the call may come, so it's up to Jokanovic on whether he will use the game as an extra-match to get players to know one another, or to use it to get minutes into players legs.


(Image: Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

"I personally think Jokanovic will go down the latter route, and will pick a changed side, much like the second round game with Exeter City.

"That means I reckon Sergio Rico will be in between the sticks, while Joe Bryan, Cyrus Christie, Maxime Le Marchand will all most likely be recalled - with that final centre back spot up for grabs.

"We may see Tim Ream start, but that depends entirely on his recovery schedule and how he's done in training, although I wouldn't be surprised to see that as the back four.


Ryan O'Donovan's starting XI vs Millwall

"In midfield, I think we'll see Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa get a start along with Ibrahima Cisse and either Kevin McDonald or Stefan Johansen - I'm nudging more towards the Scot after he only played 45 minutes on Saturday.

"Up top, I think we'll see Aboubakar Kamara play with Floyd Ayite and maybe Ryan Sessegnon as the left forward as he looks to get his confidence up after a tough start to the Premier League.

"There's a few question marks next to some of those names for me, but I think that's what we're most likely to see from Fulham, although I'm sure Jokanovic will do his best to throw a curveball in there like he usually does."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/wholesale-changes-expected-jokanovic-hands-15197792

[WhiteJC]

 
Ryan Sessegnon exclusive: Fulham wonderkid on snubbing Premier League's big boys, his ambitions and best position

The 18-year-old also revealed to Mirror Football why he snubbed the Premier League's big boys to stay at Craven Cottage

It was a Tuesday night in 2016 when Ryan Sessegnon introduced himself to the Fulham fans.

Slavisa Jokanovic started the 16-year-old at left-back for an EFL Cup match against then League Two side Leyton Orient at Brisbane Road. Sessegnon impressed.

A week later and his name appeared on the teamsheet once again as Fulham travelled to Leeds. Captain Tom Cairney remembers thinking there had been a mistake. There hadn't.

The teenager was the best player on the pitch that night, and it was from this very moment that he never looked back.

At the close of his first season he found himself named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year. At the close of his second he was Championship Player of the Season and Fulham were promoted to the Premier League.

As to be expected a host of Champions League clubs were queuing up to sign the youngster, who by this point was being compared to the likes of Gareth Bale. But by Sessegnon's own admission there was only ever one thing he was going to.

"I was always going to stay [at Fulham]. I was always focused on staying and playing for Fulham," Sessegnon tells Mirror Football, speaking at the EA SPORTS FIFA 19 Ratings Awards.

"It's the one club I know. I feel very comfortable at Fulham at the moment, and just minutes on the pitch. I just wanted to play."

An understanding that game-time is vitally important to his development at this early stage in his career - over the novelty of being on the books at a club like Manchester United - highlights the teenager's maturity.

But he also has a unique tie to the south-west London club, which played a large part in his decision to stay.

Born in Roehampton, Sessegnon attended Coombe Boys' School in New Malden, which practically shares its playing fields with Fulham's Motspur Park training ground.


The teenager makes a point of tapping the Fulham badge (Image: REUTERS)

He's been at the club since he was eight, alongside his brother Steven, and shares an emotional bond with everyone who nurtured him, believed in him and gave him a chance to shine. Top of the pile is Fulham boss, Jokanovic.

"We have a good relationship, I have been working with him since I was 16 so we have built a good relationship till now and he helps me a lot," Sessegnon continued.

"I think you can see that from my debut season till now, I think I've improved and that's purely down to him and the faith and confidence he's shown in me.

"The game time [he's given me]. He believes in me and I repay him with good performances."

Jokanovic recently told the press that in the future he sees Sessegnon playing as a wing-back for a big team that constantly attacks - in the same vein as Kyle Walker or Benjamin Mendy.

It's testament to the pair's relationship, and Sessegnon's trust in his boss, that he shares the Serbian's view. Especially as the youngster, who has shown he's adept at playing both left-back and left wing, has yet to play left wing-back for Fulham.

On his ideal position, he explained: "I think long term a left wing-back in a 3-5-2 formation. I think I have a lot of energy going forward with good recovery runs so in a three I'd affect the game more in that formation."

Sessegnon enjoys a strong bond with the Fulham fans, and while it's common practise for players to clap their away support after matches, Sessegnon makes a point of it.

He regularly approaches fans closer than any of his team-mates, and he regularly taps the badge upon doing so. He explains: "I always show respect to the fans and for me it's a bit more emotional because it's a club I have been at since I was eight.

"You see the fans come week-in week-out and show support so whatever the result you always have to show love and respect to the fans."

The reaction from the Fulham fans is mutual, with chants of 'he's one of our own' often being directed at the youngster whenever he acknowledges the supporters.

It goes without saying, Craven Cottage is the perfect place for him to continue his development at this moment in time, but that doesn't mean to say Sessegnon isn't eyeing major success in the future.

"[I want to] play for England to play in the Champions League, to play at major tournaments for my country," he explained, his eyes lighting up.

"[I want to] to play at World Cups, European championships, to win Premier Leagues - just as many trophies as I can." For Sessegnon, the sky really is the limit.

* Ryan Sessegnon was speaking at the launch of EA SPORTS FIFA 19. EA SPORTS FIFA 19 is out on September 28th on Playstation 4, Xbox One and all other platforms. To pre-order your copy, click here.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/ryan-sessegnon-exclusive-fulham-wonderkid-13298905

[WhiteJC]

 
Preview | Millwall v Fulham

Carabao Cup action at The Den...

Millwall take on Fulham in the Carabao Cup Third Round at The Den on Tuesday night (kick-off 7.45pm).

The game against the newly-promoted Premier League outfit acts as The Lions' third game in six days, with the club returning to The Den off the back of two 2-0 Sky Bet Championship defeats at Queens Park Rangers and West Bromwich Albion.

A much-improved performance at The Hawthorns on Saturday afternoon may influence manager Neil Harris' thinking when naming his starting XI for the visit of The Whites, as names such as Byron Webster, Jiri Skalak and Tom Bradshaw contributed in West Bromwich.

David Martin, Murray Wallace, Jem Karacan and Tom Elliott are all in contention, whilst Lee Gregory and Aiden O'Brien may play some part after being named as substitutes on Saturday.

Tickets for Tuesday night's game are available right up until kick-off - click here to purchase.

A reminder that there is NO extra-time in the Carabao Cup this season, with ties level after 90 minutes heading straight to a penalty shoot-out, which will take the regular ABAB format.

A 32-page programme will be available around the ground for just £2.

Want to know more about Fulham? Click here. All the stats ahead of the Carabao Cup encounter, meanwhile, can be viewed by clicking here, whilst the opposition view on The Whites can be found here.



https://www.millwallfc.co.uk/news/2018/september/preview--millwall-v-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

 
Three Players to Watch: EFL Cup Third Round vs. Millwall
Today's Cup fixture comes against a familiar foe


Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images

After a solid outing against Watford over the weekend, Fulham travel to Millwall in the third round of the Carabao Cup. Many across England will always regard this competition as a waste of everyone's time and energy. After all, it has been five years since a football club outside of the top six has won the competition (including four of the past 18 years) and almost all of the heavy favorites in each fixture play their second string. It will not be surprising at all if Fulham do the same tonight. That being said, this is an opportunity for silverware in a much more unpredictable environment than in League competition and the winner automatically qualifies for a Europa League spot. Lastly, Fulham have never made it past the quarterfinals in this event, so it will be nice to create some more history, even if it is deemed minuscule by others.

With that said, this trip to the Den should be a good outing. The Lions are a completely different side when we last saw them. The starting XI is almost unchanged since Fulham's 3-0 victory last season, but you could argue that this is a bad thing in this instance. Neil Harris' team only have six points in nine fixtures and are sitting in one of the three relegation spots. This comes after surprising many with their eighth place finish.

That being said, their defense was almost a full 15 goals too lucky in defense according to experimental 361 and regression was surely bound to happen. Remember, this is a squad that only retained the ball 43.4% of the time last season and were only able to complete 62.2% of their passes. Along with that, Harris never rotated his squad as just 14 players went on to play over 1,000 Championship. With the loss of George Saville to Middlesbrough, it was predictable that Millwall were in sixes and sevens when it came to finding a replacement for him in house or on the transfer market.

If this team were to turn things around this season, it actually isn't because of their defense. After all, their current run of 1.32 expected goals per fixture is almost in line with the 1.31 per 90 output they generated last season. If anything, it's Millwall's attack that has gone stale. So far, the club has only scored seven goals and have only put up 9.9 expected goals to show for it (or 1.10 expected goals per outing). That is a much worse rate than the 56 actual goals and 1.42 expected goals per fixture they put up last season. To put the cherry on top, no club in the Championship has generated fewer shots on target than Millwall's 2.6 per game. Until that improves, Millwall look like they're heading back to League One in a hurry.

With that in mind, there are still a few players that will be expected to start the club's improvement and would love to do so starting tonight.

Jed Wallace

So if Millwall are trying to find answers in attack, it will come from the club's main source from midfield. This season, Wallace is tops among Millwall players with 32 total offensive contributions (combined shots and key passes) and is hitting the prime of his footballing career at 24 years of age. This comes off of the back of a breakout campaign for winger with six goals, nine assists and 145 total offensive contributions in 2017/18. Only Steve Morrison bettered Wallace's attacking output with 154 total contributions, but the veteran striker is looking more and more of his 35 years of age. If anything, Millwall need to have more players in their mid-20s stepping up and taking charge of the club. Otherwise, the doom and gloom will continue down at the den.

Shaun Williams

The next person in need of boosting the club's morale is who is in charge of the center of the park now that Saville is gone. It will now be up to Shaun Williams to take the lead after the former was such a presence as a true box-to-box midfielder. That being said, Williams has the abilties to take more responsibility as his 13 key passes are currently tops among Millwall players. Along with that, his 30 total defensive contributions (combined tackles and interceptions) is also best in the club. That production will come in handy as Harris is still looking for a replacement to Saville as his center midfield partner in the 4-4-2 formation. Among those in contention for that spot is former Fulham player Ryan Tunnicliffe.

Jake Cooper

All data from whoscored.com

Lastly, we get to the backline where we see a surprise contributor to Millwall's attack. With another ex-Cottager in Shaun Hutchinson, Jake Cooper rounds out the usual center back partnership and profiles as one that is all-defense and no ball-playing skills. That being said, Cooper is joint third in shots (10) and is within reach of the leaderboard in key passes (7). Add in one goal and two assists into account and you have a source of offensive production in a club that is starved for one. Is it realistic to have someone so far back be such a contributor on the attacking side of Millwall's system? Probably not, but in desperate times, desperate measures are called upon.



https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2018/9/25/17897094/three-players-to-watch-efl-cup-third-round-vs-millwall