Monday Fulham Stuff (21/01/19)...

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Results

Sunday
Huddersfield	0 - 3	Man City
Fulham	1 - 2	Spurs

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Fulham 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur


Harry Winks popped up with the winner in the 93rd minute

A Harry Winks header in injury time saw Tottenham come from behind to beat relegation-threatened Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Spurs looked set to lose ground on league leaders Liverpool, on a day they lost Dele Alli to injury after he had earlier equalised for the visitors, but Winks stooped low in the 93rd minute to head past Sergio Rico from close range.

Fulham had nine shots on goal in an impressive first half and they took a deserved lead when Tottenham striker Fernando Llorente scored an own goal.

The Spaniard, making his first Premier League start of the season in place of the injured Harry Kane, inadvertently beat Hugo Lloris from close range while attempting to clear the danger inside his own six-yard box after a Jean Michael Seri corner.

The hosts thought they had doubled their lead five minutes before the interval but Aleksandar Mitrovic's header was ruled out as the Serbian was adjudged to be offside.

However, Spurs responded in the second period and they drew level six minutes after the interval when Alli ghosted in behind the Fulham defence to head a pin-point Christian Eriksen cross past Rico.

And Winks completed the comeback in stoppage time when he stooped low from five yards out to meet substitute Georges-Kevin Nkoudou's cross and break Fulham's resistance.

Spurs remain in third after the win, nine points behind Liverpool, while Fulham stay in 19th, seven points from safety.

Spurs find a way despite Kane and Son's absence

The 50th meeting between these two London clubs saw Tottenham - the side with the best away record in the league - facing the division's worst defence.

However, Spurs were without their two top goalscorers because of injury (Kane) and international commitments (Son Heung-min), and for 50 minutes, they looked devoid of ideas and opportunities to break down their well-organised opposition.

Mauricio Pochettino's men had just four shots in the first half which was less than half the number Fulham produced (9).

The man chosen to play instead of talisman Kane made an impact at the wrong end and Son's replacement, Erik Lamela, only managed one shot at goal in the 79 minutes he was on the field.

Spurs were better after the break as Eriksen's influence on the game began to grow, but when Llorente had a late chance to make amends for his earlier mistake, his header drifted wide with the game heading for a draw.

BBC Radio 5 live pundit Jermaine Jenas said: "It's a big, big moment in Spurs' season. Everything was negative with regards to the players missing but they kept plugging away, they kept getting the ball into the box and it was one of their own in Harry Winks that saved the day today.

"They've got a lot of players to patch up and get out there for the next game but that will feel huge."

Ultimately, two midfielders pulled Spurs out of jail although Alli was replaced in the second half after heading the equaliser, with what looked like a hamstring issue to add further concern for Pochettino.

With Kane not expected to return to the side until March, and Llorente showing signs of rustiness at the Cottage, the Tottenham manager may be forced into the market as their faint tile hopes remain alive.

Babel's inclusion a cause of optimism for Fulham
Fulham's debutant winger Ryan Babel looked like he enjoyed his first Premier League start since December 2010, after completing a move from Turkish side Besiktas earlier this week.

The former Liverpool forward showed plenty of encouraging signs for the hosts and he should have scored in the 11th minute when he burst clear of Davinson Sanchez with pace and power, but his left-footed effort was well saved by Lloris.

He then came close to doubling Fulham's lead while they were in the ascendancy, but his header sailed over the bar after he rose highest to meet Cyrus Christie's cross.

Babel last played for Besiktas on 22 December and he was replaced after 50 minutes, but the 32-year-old had more shots and played more key passes than any other Fulham player during the whole game.

The Netherlands international gives Claudio Ranieri's side an option they have not had so far.

Man of the match - Harry Winks (Tottenham)

'I hope it is not a massive problem' - what they said

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino to BBC Sport: "It was an unbelievable finish. That's why it is so important to believe.

"The action is brilliant from Harry Winks, to recover the ball from a difficult position, he believes to score and arrive in the box. It was an amazing cross from Nkoudou.

"Sometimes in football, it is not tactics or formation, you have to believe.

"Some injuries appear in a period with a more busy schedule and another opportunity opens the door for players not consistently in the starting XI or on the bench. It is great opportunity for different players to show quality."

On Alli's injury: "It is in the left hamstring, I hope it is not a massive problem, but we will need to assess."

"In the first half we were fantastic. We scored and should have had a penalty but the referee didn't give it.

"In the second half we recovered well [from Tottenham's first goal] but in the end we took a free-kick into the box. Why? We should have taken the ball into the corner.

"It was a lack of experience, but Tottenham have a lot of experience. It was a bad moment for us but we are alive and we will continue to fight.

"The performance was fantastic, but we lost the match just through experience, that's it. We played well and sooner or later we will find our way.

"We have to continue to believe. Now we have to stay together and I hope other players arrive to help us."

On Ryan Babel's debut: "He had a fantastic first half but has come from a winter break so I think in one month he will be ready for 90 minutes."

Fulham rack up 50 goals against - the stats
    Spurs have won four of their last six Premier League away games in which they've conceded first (L2), including on both occasions this season (6-2 v Everton and 2-1 v Fulham).
    Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri suffered his first Premier League defeat against Spurs (W7 D4 L1), in what was his 12th game in the competition against them.
    Fulham are the first team in the top five European Leagues to have conceded 50 goals in league competition this season (51).
    Spurs won a Premier League game without Harry Kane or Son Heung-min for the first time since March 2014 (3-2 v Southampton).
    Since his Premier League debut in August 2015, Dele Alli has been directly involved in 47% of Spurs' goals in the competition when Harry Kane hasn't played (7/15 - five goals and two assists).
    No player has scored more headed goals than Spurs midfielder Dele Alli in the Premier League this season (4 - joint-high with Aleksandar Mitrovic).
    Fernando Llorente's own goal for Spurs was their first in the Premier League since January 21st 2018 (364 days ago), when Davinson Sanchez did so against Southampton.
    Spurs have scored four Premier League own goals against Fulham - against no other side have they scored more (also four v Southampton).

What's next?
Fulham host Brighton in the Premier League on Tuesday, 29 January (19:45 GMT), while Tottenham face Chelsea in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge on Thursday, 24 January (19:45 GMT).



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/46853938

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Manager Reaction

Claudio Ranieri was very proud of the way his team fought against Spurs but unfortunately a lack of experience saw them unable to see out the match.

The Whites went ahead in the first-half thanks to a Fernando Llorente own goal but Dele Alli equalised early on in the second-half.

Fulham were seconds away from earning a point but Harry Winks headed in from close-range to steal all three points for the visitors.

"Its unbelievable, our first-half was fantastic and we also had [a shout for a] penalty but the referee didn't see, and penalties are only when the referee whistles," said Ranieri.

"I think it was a good match. The First-half was fantastic, the second-half we controlled the match very well in a defensive way.

"We gave a gift on the first goal and the second goal is unbelievable to explain.

"Calm, we want to stay calm, calm, keep possession, lets finish the match and at the end, after three minutes of extra time, 48 seconds they score a goal.

"But we are alive and we continue to fight, the team showed a fantastic performance. I can say only well done but stay very, very smart until the end.

"But you know, a lot of them, it's the first time they've played in the Premier League. Ryan Babel made a very, very good threat for the Tottenham players and I'm very pleased with him," said the Fulham Manager.

The impressive display from January signing Ryan Babel pleased the Italian who is excited to see what he can offer when he is fully fit.

"Of course he doesn't have 90 minutes because in Turkey there is a winter break, but I think in one month he has 90 minutes in his legs."

When asked if he has seen enough fight from his team to convince him that Fulham can stay up he said he was impressed.

"I told them, well done the match was fantastic. The first-half was amazing and I say just why we want to score again, only the experience we lack because they gave the maximum.

"And we must continue to give the maximum in every match, in every performance. I want to thank our supporters because they pushed a lot behind us.

"I am positive because when you play this kind of football, this kind of performance we must believe and I believe in my players.

"Of course we have to change something but if you continue to fight you have to change," said Ranieri.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/january/20/manager-reaction-spurs

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Fulham 1-2 Tottenham: Harry Winks header snatches dramatic last-gasp win for Spurs to further dent Claudio Ranieri's survival hopes

    Tottenham move four points clear of Chelsea in third but suffered more injury problems at Craven Cottage
    Fernando Llorente diverted a Jean Michael Seri corner kick beyond Hugo Lloris and into his own net
    Dele Alli brought Tottenham level with a far post header from a Christian Eriksen cross after half-time
    The England international was then forced off in the closing stages after appearing to injure his hamstring
    Harry Winks struck in the final minute of added time to complete a dramatic comeback from Tottenham

As Tottenham supporters filed out of Craven Cottage, a familiar tune drifted into the night, bellowed in honour of a home-grown hero who came to the rescue with a goal when they needed it most.

This time, rather than the usual goal machine, the name on their lips was Harry Winks, who appeared at the back post to score for the first time in more than two years after a long and selfless shift, deep in midfield.

Less than 20 seconds of stoppage time remained when Winks pounced to crush Fulham, just as they were preparing to add a hard-earned and deserved point to their survival fund.


Tottenham fell behind in the first-half at Craven Cottage after Fernando Llorente diverted the ball into his own net


A Jean Michael Seri corner kick clipped off the Spanish international's leg and beat Hugo Lloris to break the deadlock


Fulham's talismanic striker Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrates in front of the home fans after they opened the scoring

Goals change games, they say, but this one could have even greater consequences.

It certainly delivered a serious blow for Claudio Ranieri and his team's vanishing hopes of a great escape and it gave Spurs much-needed impetus to believe they really can secure their ambitions despite a deepening injury crisis.

Mauricio Pochettino's side are in third place with a four-point advantage over Chelsea, who they face on Thursday at Stamford Bridge in the second leg of a Carabao Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge.

Then comes the FA Cup at Crystal Palace. Next month, the Champions League returns. They are alive in all competitions and yet the squad is wearing painfully thin in key areas.

The goal by Winks spared the embarrassment of Fernando Llorente who was selected to lead the line in the absence of Harry Kane and Heung-min Son and promptly opened the scoring with a goal in his own net.

Dele Alli levelled but for long periods Tottenham struggled to penetrate the Premier League's leakiest defence.

Just as it seemed as though they would drop points, Winks appeared at the back post to head in a deep cross by Georges-Kevin Nkoudou, another forgotten man.


Fulham's Cyrus Christie runs forward with the ball as Tottenham defender Danny Rose appeals in the background


Fulham defender Christie challenges for the ball alongside Tottenham left back Rose in the first half


Tottenham midfielder Winks attempts to get the ball under control as Christie keeps a watchful eye


Fulham debutant Ryan Babel looks to keep the ball under control as Toby Alderweireld aims to check his progress

Nkoudou was making his first Premier League appearance of the season and his first in the league for Spurs in the league since he came on as an 89th minute substitute against Bournemouth in October 2017.

He probably would not have come on at all had Alli not been forced off with a hamstring injury which leaves Pochettino desperately short of options.

With Lucas Moura declared unfit, the only attacking players on the Tottenham bench were Nkoudou and rookie Kezaiah Sterling.

Llorente looked every inch a player who was starting only his second Premier League game in 18 months as a Tottenham player. On his first start, at Swansea, little more than 12 months ago, he scored the first in a 2-0 win.

Beyond that, his contributions have been limited mainly to late cameo appearances when all else has failed and FA Cup hat-tricks against Rochdale and Tranmere.

Suddenly he has handed the responsibility of leading the line and keeping the season alive in a month when the 33-year-old Basque had been plotting a return to Spain.

Inside 17 minutes, he had found the net. Unfortunately, it was the wrong net.


Babel, playing his first Premier League game since 2011, gets a shot off on goal but is denied by Hugo Lloris


Alesksandar Mitrovic thought he had doubled Fulham's lead in the first-half but his goal was ruled out for offside


Dutch international Babel rises highest for a free header inside the penalty area but misses the target


Tottenham defender Alderweireld and Fulham's Joe Bryan contest the loose ball during the second half


Babel makes way for Ryan Sessegnon in the second half after impressing on his home debut at Craven Cottage

Llorente was back to defend a corner when he lost the flight of the ball delivered by Jean Michael Seri and could not adjust his feet as it bounced against the inside of his right knee and flashed past Hugo Lloris.

The goal contained an element of good fortune but Fulham were worthy of the lead, having opened with speed and direct threat on the break.

Ryan Babel impressed on his debut, forcing an early reflex save from Lloris. The Dutch winger volleyed wide and headed over and was involved when Aleksandar Mitrovic had a goal ruled out in the first half.

Babel's cross was volleyed sweetly by Andre Schurrle and parried by the Spurs 'keeper. Mitrovic nodded the rebound into the net but he was offside at the point of Schurrle's shot and the flag was up.

Although they dominated possession, Tottenham were fortunate to reach the interval at only one goal down.

They were missing the goal threat of Kane and Son, on international duty at the Asia Cup, and the midfield power of Moussa Sissoko and, having reverted to a back-three, did not protect Lloris well.


Fulham striker Mitrovic grabs hold of Tottenham defender Davinson Sanchez's shirt as they fight for the ball


Fulham striker Mitrovic confronts Tottenham defender Sanchez after the scuffle by the touchline

Six minutes into the second half, however, and Fulham's own defensive frailties returned to haunt them.

Tim Ream missed his kick completely as he tried to clear from the edge of his own penalty area and Christian Eriksen was able to pick out Alli as he darted between Denis Odoi and Cyrus Christie.

Alli headed in from close range, the 50th Premier League goal conceded by Fulham this season, although they have greater resilience under Ranieri and refused to buckle completely.

A breathless final 30 minutes brought saves by both goalkeepers and penalty appeals by both teams rejected by referee Craig Pawson, who also booked Danny Rose for diving.

Maxime Le Marchand hurled his body in front of a shot by Eriksen and Odoi diverted an effort by Rose against the bar.

The best opportunity of the closing stages fell to Llorente, but he miscued a header from a free-kick by Rose and watched this chance of personal redemption slide wide.

Then up popped Winks, an unlikely saviour for Pochettino who purred about the fighting qualities and character of his players.

In the Premier League, Tottenham have forgotten how to draw. They have no draws from 23 league fixtures and this was their 11th away win of the campaign.

Fulham, however, are seven points from safety in the relegation zone.




https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6612895/Fulham-1-2-Tottenham-Harry-Winks-snatches-gasp-win.html

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Liverpool fans are all saying the same thing as Ryan Babel makes Premier League return with Fulham

The winger is back in the Premier League and made his debut against Spurs at Craven Cottage


Ryan Babel on his debut for Fulham

Ryan Babel sealed a shock return to the Premier League with Fulham, and the former Liverpool winger enjoyed an impressive debut against Tottenham Hotspur

Liverpool fans have enjoyed a trip down memory lane watching former winger Ryan Babel enjoy an impressive debut for Fulham.

The 32-year-old left Anfield eight years ago having netted 12 times in 91 appearances for the club.

Fulham confirmed Babel's shock return to the Premier League on a short-term deal, and the forward enjoyed a lively debut for the Cottagers before being substituted for Ryan Sessegnon.

The Ajax academy graduate spent four years at Liverpool before moving abroad for spells at Hoffenheim, Deportivo la Coruna, and Besiktas among others

Babel enjoyed a return to form in Turkey, racking up 22 goals in 62 appearances before sealing his shock return to the Premier League.

Ranieri immediately named the Dutch winger in the starting eleven for the London derby against Tottenham, joining Aleksandar Mitrovic and Andre Schurrle in attack.

And Babel enjoyed a lively first half at Craven Cottage, testing visiting keeper Hugo Lloris on several occasions.

The 32-year-old's impressive first-half display caught the attention of Sky Sports pundits and Liverpool fans on social media.

Liverpool fans were also quick to take to social media, reminiscing about their former forward and their surprise at the intensity of his performance.

Fulham fans also posted their delight at Babel's performance which helped Fulham take a one-goal lead into the break



https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ryan-babel-liverpool-fulham-debut-15706286

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Tom Cairney discusses why he thrived at Fulham playing under Slavisa Jokanovic

The former head coach built his Fulham teams around the 28-year-old during his time at the club

Tom Cairney believes having Slavisa Jokanovic as a head coach suited him to a tee and had him producing some of the best football of his career.

The former Fulham head coach made Cairney his captain after Scott Parker's retirement and placed a large amount of responsibility on the 28-year-old's shoulders as the side reached the play-offs twice in succession, with Cairney being the man to score the goal in the 2018 Play-off final to send the side up.

Jokanovic made Cairney the pivot of his side, sitting at the base of a three man midfield that included Stefan Johansen and Kevin McDonald, with everything the side did going through him.

It saw Cairney play some of the best football he's ever played, and on his 28th birthday and ahead of his 150th appearance for the club, the skipper has revealed just how much he loved playing under the Serbian.

He told the official matchday programme: "It sounds strange, but even as a young lad I felt I'd benefit from having a foreign manager, and Slav's style of play suited me down to the ground.

"I think he played a similar position as a player, so he knew how to get the best out of me.

"He really believed in me and the responsibility he put on my shoulders raised my game. He'd tell me, 'Tom, if the team is in trouble, just go and find the ball, settle us down and try and get us out of any sticky situations. If you play well, we play well.'


(Image: Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

"That's what I tried to do, and I think I did it pretty well often in the Championship. It helped that I had good players around me. I played in a very strong Championship team. I had Stefan Johansen next to me, who was brilliant for two years, and Kevin McDonald as well.

"The style of play Slav brought in suited my game to a tee."

Jokanovic was sacked, however, this season as Fulham struggled in the Premier League, winning just one game under the Serbian before Shahid Khan gave him his P45.

Claudio Ranieri was brought in to try and salvage the season, but with that change of manager Cairney has found himself playing in a number of different positions, including the number 10 role and on the right of midfield.

He hasn't played as regularly under the Italian as the manager tries to find how to fit a player like Cairney into the side, and while the skipper admits it's been a frustrating season he's ready to nail down a spot in the starting XI.

He added: "The new boss has come in and I've played in a number of positions. I've played some good games and had some average ones. I've not really nailed a position down or got a run of games under him as yet.

"On the whole it's been a frustrating season, but I wouldn't swap it for being in the Championship. We've been there and done that, and proved we can play at that level.

"We're where we are in the table because it's hard and it's the best league in the world.

"I feel fit and healthy now, so I need to get into the team and stay there."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/tom-cairney-discusses-thrived-fulham-15705265

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Report: Fulham Under-23s 1 Blues Under-23s 2

Blues boosted their Premier League Cup qualification hopes with a fine win at Fulham.

Goals by Geraldo Bajrami (17 minutes) and Jude Bellingham (36) put them in command at half-time in the Group G clash at Motspur Park.

And although Elijah Adebayo got one back for the hosts with 20 minutes remaining, Blues kept their lead in tact to deny Fulham clinching their place in the knockout stage.

Blues lost their opening two matches to Fulham and Reading, but this win after the triumph at Colchester United has put them in a great position – level on six points with Fulham, with Reading holding top spot on 12 points.

"It was an excellent team performance," said Senior Professional Development Coach Richard Beale.

"They're a tough team, Category One, and had seven or eight foreign players in their starting eleven they've brought in. They beat Manchester United 3-1 in their last match.

"I couldn't have asked for more off the lads, from one to 16.

"We played some really good football at times and caused them problems.

"The first goal came when Jude was brought down on the edge of the box. There wasn't much air space to get the ball up and over the wall, so we went for power and Geraldo's shot went straight in, we had Josh Andrews in among their wall of seven or eight players.

"The other goal, Jude landed on a second ball and drove towards the right-hand side of the box and went as if to shoot, then chopped back onto his left foot – sending three defenders one way – and then curled it in, into the sidenetting just inside the post. Superb goal.

"We had a good chance with Kyle Hurst going through one-on-one, but the 'keeper made a great save.

"We knew they'd come out strong in the second-half we adjusted accordingly, and Kyle to had two more opportunities with one-on-ones. Again, great saves.

"They did score and we then had to dig in, which we did. It was backs to the wall the last 10 minutes.

"But I felt it was a victory we deserved. Yes, they had 65 per cent possession, but we had eight shots on target to their two.

"We showed great desire when going forward and we got our shape right, the defence sliding across, when they played the switches they like to do.

"With two games left in the group, at home to Reading and Colchester United, it's not in our hands – and that's a great place to be.

"This becomes a knockout competition if we can get through and that will provide the players with something different to help their development.

"It's what we want to do. We will look forward to these last two games and the lads have given themselves a great platform."

Blues: Weaver, O'Keeffe, Burke, Redmond, Bajrami, McCoy, Boyd-Munce, Stirk, Bellingham, Andrews, Hurst (McGilp 81). Subs not used: Jeacock, Baker, McLean, Forrest.



https://www.bcfc.com/news/articles/2019/report-fulham-under-23s-1-blues-under-23s-2/

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Winks scores at the death to give Spurs vital win at Fulham

Tottenham survived the absence of Harry Kane and Son Heung-min as Harry Winks' stoppage-time header secured a vital 2-1 victory at Fulham.

The striker's ankle injury and Son's absence due to international duty had meant a rare start for Fernando Llorente, who after scoring an own goal also missed two fine chances to make amends.

Dele Alli's seventh of the season and then one from Winks, from essentially the match's last move, instead cruelly edged 19th-placed Fulham closer to relegation.

It kept Spurs on course for a top-three finish, even thought they are under increasing pressure from Manchester United.

Fulham's attacking options had been under similar scrutiny, owing to reports of a fight between Aleksandar Mitrovic and Aboubakar Kamara during a yoga session, as well as the recent signing of Ryan Babel.

With Kamara not even a substitute, Babel was handed his debut at Ryan Sessegnon's expense, and in the 12th minute he wasted a fine chance to give his new team an unexpected lead.

Racing onto Mitrovic's flick-on from midfield, he outmuscled Davinson Sanchez and ran through to go one-on-one with Hugo Lloris before hesitating with his shot and producing no more than a routine save from the goalkeeper at his near post.

Playing with greater belief and frustrating Spurs by defending deep and in numbers, the hosts required only a further five minutes to take the lead.

From a right-wing corner Jean Michael Seri crossed to in front of goal, where after Tim Ream had missed a header, under minimal pressure the unfortunate Llorente attempted to clear and instead saw the ball bounce off his shin and beyond Lloris.

The Spaniard very nearly found a swift response when, from Jan Vertonghen's superb cross from deep in midfield, his powerful close-range header forced a fine reaction save from Sergio Rico, and before Babel again twice went close.

First he headed over a cross from Cyrus Christie, and then Mitrovic had a goal disallowed for offside when nodding in the rebound as Lloris impressively stopped Andre Schurrle's volley.

Finally, with Spurs still uncharacteristically unconvincing, he was denied with what would have been Fulham's best chance yet when Calum Chambers fed him with a backheel and Vertonghen produced a last-ditch challenge to block.

The hosts will rarely have performed better during what has been a difficult season, but perhaps typically it was a defensive error with which they were undermined.

When in the 52nd minute Ream made a hash of a clearance, after Toby Alderweireld's hopeful long ball, Christian Eriksen collected possession on the right and calmly crossed to Alli, who then seamlessly scored with his fourth header this season.

Mitrovic's subsequent appeals for a penalty were rightly dismissed by referee Craig Pawson, who judged Lloris to have won the ball with his challenge.

Danny Rose then nearly gave Spurs the lead but saw his right-footed shot deflected onto the crossbar by Denis Odoi.

It was in the 82nd minute when Llorente headed narrowly wide at the back post from Rose's free-kick and appeared to have wasted their last chance of all three points.

Yet in the third minute of the three added on, substitute Georges-Kevin Nkoudou brilliantly crossed to Winks, who from immediately in front of goal dramatically headed Spurs to victory.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/winks-scores-at-the-death-to-give-spurs-vital-win-at-fulham

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Fulham sunk by last-gasp Tottenham winner

Fulham 1 Tottenham 2

Harry Winks scored a last-gasp Tottenham winner to increase Fulham's relegation worries.

Ryan Babel impressed on his debut for the Whites, who played well and were seconds away from picking up a point in their battle for Premier League survival.

Fernando Llorente's 17th-minute own goal put Fulham ahead and they were excellent before Dele Alli – who later went off injured – headed in an equaliser early in the second half.

Striker Llorente, playing in the absence of the sidelined Harry Kane, inadvertently nudged Jean Michael Seri's corner past keeper Hugo Lloris.

Fulham had been on top, with new signing Babel bringing a fine save from Lloris before Dennis Odoi headed wide from the resulting corner.

Spurs responded after the opening goal and Llorente came close to atoning for his mistake when his header from Jan Vertonghen's cross was well saved by keeper Sergio Rico.

But Fulham – and the excellent Babel in particular – remained a threat and the former Liverpool forward headed over from Cyrus Christie's cross.

And Babel was involved again when Fulham had a goal disallowed just before half-time.

He set up Andre Schurrle, whose effort was saved by Lloris. Aleksandar Mitrovic thought he had doubled the lead when he nodded in the loose ball, but the striker was offside.

Fulham, one off the bottom of the table, were cheered off at the interval.

But the defensive shortcomings which have plagued their season were evident again when Spurs scored six minutes after the restart and when Winks netted with seconds remaining.

After Tim Ream failed to clear his lines, Christian Eriksen sent the ball in towards Alli, who nodded past Rico.

Fulham then found themselves under sustained pressure and almost went behind on the hour mark when Danny Rose's effort struck the bar after taking a deflection off Odoi.

Llorente missed a glorious late chance when he headed wide from Rose's free-kick.

But Spurs' persistence was rewarded when Joe Bryan allowed Winks to head in Kevin N'Koudou's cross at the far post.

Fulham: Rico, Odoi, Le Marchand, Ream, Christie, Chambers, Seri (Cisse 80), Bryan, Schurrle (Kebano 72), Babel (Sessegnon 56), Mitrovic.
Subs not used: Bettinelli, Cairney, Ayite, Vietto.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/football-fulham-v-tottenham-premier-league-report-200119

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Ryan Babel shows promise on return to English football as his debut gives Fulham fans some reason for optimism despite last-gasp defeat by Tottenham

    Ryan Babel made his Fulham debut in Sunday's London derby against Tottenham
    The former Liverpool player was on the pitch for 56 minutes and Fulham lost 2-1
    It was Babel's first Premier League appearance since leaving Liverpool in 2011
    Fulham were crushed at the final whistle after a 93rd-minute Harry Winks winner

After spending this week making bold proclamations and turning up at Fulham's Craven Cottage with a lid of bright red hair, it was never likely to be a quiet return to English football for Ryan Babel.

Now 32, Babel is a different player to the man who arrived at Liverpool twelve years ago as a young Dutch starlet. Back then, Babel was the boy wonder handed his debut at Ajax under Ronald Koeman at the age of 17 and the talent christened as the 'next Thierry Henry' by Marco van Basten.

At Liverpool, Babel is sadly remembered more for his off-field vibrancy than any inspiration on the field. As a young man who pursued a rap music career to run alongside his football endeavour, accusations arose that Babel had taken his eye off the ball.


Dutchman Ryan Babel made his Fulham debut in Sunday's London derby against Tottenham


Babel held off Davinson Sanchez (centre) and fired in a left-foot shot on goal in the first half

After referee Howard Webb awarded a penalty to Manchester United in an FA Cup fixture against Liverpool, Babel posted a photoshopped image of Webb in a United shirt on Twitter and faced Football Association charges. These, sadly, are among the more memorable moments of a Liverpool career in which Babel would score only 22 goals in almost 150 appearances for Liverpool and his inconsistency came to represent the fraying final period of Rafa Benitez's period in charge of the Anfield club. After toiling under Benitez, there was little more joy under either Roy Hodgson or Kenny Dalglish and, ultimately, Babel left for Hoffenheim before spending time in Spain, Holland, the Middle East and Turkey as his career fragmented during his twenties.

To many, it was a surprise when Fulham took a chance on the Dutchman as they secured his signature from Besiktas earlier this week. Babel immediately set high expectations, telling newspapers that he has 'unfinished business' and accusing Liverpool of failing to provide the guidance he needed. Arriving as a green 20-year-old, Babel had previously been living with his parents in Holland and never before had he travelled abroad. Certainly, matters did not pan out as hoped when Babel declared that Benitez would be the 'ideal father-in-law' upon signing for the club.

Having talked a good game in the build-up, Babel needed to play one too. As it turned out, this was a promising audition. Fulham had lost only one of their first five home Premier League matches since Claudio Ranieri took the reins but confidence appeared to be on the floor after an FA Cup loss against Oldham and then last weekend's demoralising 2-1 defeat at fellow relegation battlers Burnley.


Fulham No 12 Babel got the better of Sanchez again later in the first half and headed goalwards


Babel, making his first Premier League appearance since 2011, battled with Erik Lamela

After the sickener of a last-gasp defeat, it is strange to think that during an excellent first-half, Fulham produced the best performance yet of the Ranieri era. Lining up in a front three alongside Aleksandar Mitrovic and Andre Schurrle, Babel was at the centre of all that was good about the home side.

He showcased his enduring strength and speed, sprinting away from Davinson Sanchez before holding off the Colombian's considerable frame, setting himself and forcing a terffiic save by Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

After Fulham fortuitously took the lead via Fernando Llorente's own goal, Babel grew in confidence and composure. He passed up a splendid chance to double Fulham's lead, heading wide when well-placed in front of goal and he then miscontrolled when found in space inside the penalty area. Yet his movement and invention continued to bedevil Tottenham, skipping down the left-flank and clipping a delicate cross for Andre Schurrle to meet on the volley.

As Spurs upped the ante in the second period, Dele Alli's equaliser took the wind out of the Fulham sails and by the 55th minute, Babel, still reclaiming full sharpness, was withdrawn for the more youthful Ryan Sessegnon. Still, there was much promise in what the Fulham faithful had seen and perhaps, at last, we may see the best face of Babel in English football in the coming months.


Fulham fans at Craven Cottage applauded Babel as he was substituted off after 56 minutes


Babel was replaced by Ryan Sessegnon shortly after Spurs had equalised on Sunday evening



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6612663/Ryan-Babels-debut-gives-Fulham-fans-cause-optimism-despite-defeat.html

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Fulham player ratings: Ryan Babel impresses on debut as side cruelly lose to Spurs

Spurs came from 1-0 down to win 2-1 thanks to a last minute Harry Winks goal

Fulham were cruelly denied a point against Tottenham Hotspur as a last minute Harry Winks goal gave his side all three points.

The home side went ahead in the tie after 17 minutes through a Fernando Llorente own goal - it's one the Spurs man won't want to see again after he side footed the ball into his own net under no pressure.
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They could've had more in what was one of the best halves of football under Claudio Ranieri, but new signing Ryan Babel saw his effort well saved by Hugo Lloris while Aleksandar Mitrovic was judged to be offside after he put the ball into the back of the net.

Unfortunately it last for all of ten minutes into the second half when poor defending allowed Spurs to put a ball into the box and pick out Dele Alli, who nodded home before Winks popped up in the 93rd minute to win it.

Here's how we rated the side:

Sergio Rico - 6

Made a few decent saves in the first half while his kicking to Mitrovic was pretty accurate all game. Struggled with coming for balls into his box, however.

Denis Odoi - 6

Did really well in the first half in his personal battle with Dele Alli with Odoi marshaling his marker well. Struggled as Spurs upped the pressure in the second half with Alli getting the better of him.

Tim Ream - 5

Had a decent first half but a mistake when clearing the ball was pounced on by Spurs leading to Dele Alli's equaliser.

Maxime Le Marchand - 6

Did a good job dealing with Llorente for most of the game but will be disappointed that Spurs were able to score by dropping a ball in between him and Odoi in the six yard box.

Joe Bryan - 5

Struggled with his positioning in the first half which allowed Spurs some joy down his flank. Got to grips with the game more in the second half and started to put in a good showing. Allowed Winks to get ahead of him for the winning goal.

Cyrus Christie - 6

Wanted a bit too much time on the ball in the first half in dangerous areas but did a decent enough job at right wing back over the course of the game.

Calum Chambers - 7

Didn't really have much impact on the game but did a decent enough job in a defensive sense in the heart of midfield alongside Seri. Grew into the second half and did a great job of breaking up play.

Jean-Michael Seri - 7

Had a good first half and did a good job of mopping up in the midfield. Picked up some nice positions in the second half and played some really clever passes in tight areas.

Ryan Babel - 8

Started the game well and showed some strength and pace to manufacture a decent chance for himself in the first ten minutes. It was a good debut from the forward who showed what he can offer the side.

Andre Schurrle - 5

Was fairly quiet in the first half but did pick out a good position where Babel found him, allowing him to rattle off a good effort. Barely touched the ball in the second half of the game and was subbed with 20 minutes left.

Aleksandar Mitrovic - 7

Was proving to be a handful for Davidson Sanchez as the two battled in the air for balls. He was a nightmare for the Spurs backline when Rico went long and won most balls in the air.

Substitutes

Ryan Sessegnon - 6

Was brought on to target Kieran Trippier in the second half of the game and took up some good positions, but never really threatened the Spurs back line.

Neeskens Kebano  - 5

Substitutes

Ryan Sessegnon - 6

Was brought on to target Kieran Trippier in the second half of the game and took up some good positions, but never really threatened the Spurs back line.

Neeskens Kebano  - 5



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-player-ratings-ryan-babel-15705446

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Schalke 04 Register Interest In Signing Fulham, Fenerbahce Target Victor Moses

Bundesliga side Schalke 04 have joined the scramble to sign Victor Moses in the January transfer window, according to reports.

Sport.de making reference to The Sun claims Schalke 04 have targeted the Chelsea right winger to assist the club in their quest to avoid relegation.

After 18 matches in the German Bundesliga, The Royal Blues are provisionally 14th in the standings, with only five points separating them from VfB Stuttgart, who occupy the 16th position.

Schalke 04 are interested in signing Moses on loan for the rest of the season but the stumbling block to a deal is the player's weekly wage of 130,000 pounds.

Fulham and Crystal Palace could also be priced out of a deal due to Moses's high wages.

It is confirmed that Turkish club Fenerbahce are also working on a deal to sign the former Nigeria international, who has a contract with Chelsea until the summer of 2021.



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=30761

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Claudio Ranieri says Fulham's late defeat to Tottenham is down to inexperience
Tottenham win 2-1 at Craven Cottage to leave Fulham seven points from safety

Claudio Ranieri accused his Fulham side of lacking experience after poor game management enabled Tottenham to win Sunday's clash at Craven Cottage.

Fulham were within touching distance of a vital point for their survival bid, with the scores locked at 1-1 heading into stoppage time after Fernando Llorente's own goal had been cancelled out by Dele Alli.

But Fulham's decision to deliver a late free-kick into the Spurs area, rather than running the clock down, proved costly as Harry Winks headed the winner in the dying seconds.

"It was a good match," Ranieri told Sky Sports. "The first half was fantastic for us. We scored, maybe there was a penalty too after our goal.

"The second half they tried to do their best but the two goals, we lack experience.

"With one minute at the end we have a free-kick and put it in the box, why? Take it to the corner."

The crushing late defeat leaves Fulham seven points from safety at the bottom of the Premier League.

Despite this, Ranieri has vowed to maintain a level of performance supporters will appreciate.

"I think our fans are happy for their performance," he added, "and we must continue this way.

"I am confident and haven't lost my confidence about the team.

"When I watch the players play, if we continue to fight in this way and everybody believes, we can survive."



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11612689/claudio-ranieri-says-fulhams-late-defeat-to-tottenham-is-down-to-inexperience

[WhiteJC]

 
Claudio Ranieri says Fulham's late defeat to Tottenham is down to inexperience
Tottenham win 2-1 at Craven Cottage to leave Fulham seven points from safety

Claudio Ranieri accused his Fulham side of lacking experience after poor game management enabled Tottenham to win Sunday's clash at Craven Cottage.

Fulham were within touching distance of a vital point for their survival bid, with the scores locked at 1-1 heading into stoppage time after Fernando Llorente's own goal had been cancelled out by Dele Alli.

But Fulham's decision to deliver a late free-kick into the Spurs area, rather than running the clock down, proved costly as Harry Winks headed the winner in the dying seconds.

"It was a good match," Ranieri told Sky Sports. "The first half was fantastic for us. We scored, maybe there was a penalty too after our goal.

"The second half they tried to do their best but the two goals, we lack experience.

"With one minute at the end we have a free-kick and put it in the box, why? Take it to the corner."

The crushing late defeat leaves Fulham seven points from safety at the bottom of the Premier League.

Despite this, Ranieri has vowed to maintain a level of performance supporters will appreciate.

"I think our fans are happy for their performance," he added, "and we must continue this way.

"I am confident and haven't lost my confidence about the team.

"When I watch the players play, if we continue to fight in this way and everybody believes, we can survive."



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11612689/claudio-ranieri-says-fulhams-late-defeat-to-tottenham-is-down-to-inexperience

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham 1-2 Spurs

Disgraced film director Woodie Allen starts his famous film, Manhattan, with an author writing and re-writing his opening paragraph because he can't quite get his ideas out right, or the words won't come, or he can't quite decide how he feels about what he's trying to do.   I feel a bit like that here.  What do you with a game like that?

On the one hand, given the season so far we'd have expected to lose to Spurs anyway.   And of course, we should be delighted to have played well against a team like Spurs, who are very good and high in the table.

Against which, to do a few things quite well and then lose to an injury time goal is devastating to Fulham's already slim survival hopes.  So yes, it's a mess.  I might do some random bullets again and see where it takes me.

    Ryan Babel was really good.  He seemed physical and a good foil for Mitro.  He had a presence, but a meaningful one.  He was in the game.  He nearly scored early and my belief is that this is what kicked everything else off.  Suddenly under lights at the Cottage the team got a bit of a boost – we can do this! – and that led to as good a half as has been spied for some time.  So yeah, good pickup and let's hope there's more of this to come because he added another dimension and the team seemed to grow 10% with him around.
    Probably as good a time as any to draw a contrast with Mr Schurrle who was basically everything Babel wasn't, or wasn't everything Babel was perhaps.  He nearly got another wonder goal but that can't be your contribution to a team in this position.  He went off in the end but I would guess that at some point you have to say that this isn't working out.  Now it's possible he's doing good things that we the fans can't quite comprehend but I don't think so.
    Which makes Tom Cairney's absence even more worrying.  You have two players, Cairney and Seri, who are excellent at keeping the ball.   That being so, I believe they'd be better together.   Especially if Schurrle's not really contributing anyway.  Could it be that Cairney's going to be sold?   Or is Ranieri just after a more high tempo, physical game?  I don't even think that precludes Cairney, as you still want someone who can use the ball however you're approaching the team.  It's a mystery.
    Seri and Chambers, though, were excellent.  Seri was fizzing bombs into the box from corners and free-kicks in a way that suggested we'd score sooner or later, and Chambers was able to construct a very sound all around performance.  It's a good combination and partly why I've been trying to suggest all along that this team has talent.
    That said, the defence is still a problem.  I argued a fair bit early on that nobody could look good in this defence because of the team's setup, but you can't give that excuse anymore and again mistakes cost the team badly.   And sadly you can't overlook defensive mistakes because they are always punished at this level and being a good defender for 99.9% of the time won't cut it.   Harsh but true.  So in that sense fingers can be pointed all over the place at the back.
    Christie I like on so many levels, but again he seems to be the key person in so many attacking moves which isn't really a forte.  It's frustrating because we so often seem to be nearly there in the attacking third.  Something to work on perhaps.  I like him and he seems like one for the longer term, so let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater, but attacking combinations down the right so often seem to be just not quite right.  He'll be excellent if we go down and might grow into the role if we don't.
    Bryan did fine, too but the winner seemed like something he ought to be dealing with.  I remember Mark Hughes turning sour on John Paintsil quickly because of a perceived inability to defend the far post, and it's something I've always been interested in since.   Dunno, Bryan seems fine overall but again, you could hope for a bit better right at the death with so much at stake.  But he gave a lot to the cause.
    Where it gets really daft is the equaliser.   We all knew that there'd be defending to be done, but make them work for it.  Ream's air waft spoiled an otherwise competent afternoon, but really... Ranieri must have been in bits at those two goals.  It's not what should be happening.    Today we could see why the 3-5-2- or whatever it is can be effective but... well, what can you do about stuff like this?  Maybe I'm wrong and Gary Cahill would help, but then who's to say that someone else back there won't do something daft?
    Odoi must not shoot ever, unless he's in a position where it's really the only option

That's about it I think.  I guess you have to take the positives and try to build on them.  The team absolutely can play and in another season would have taken 2-4 points from the last two games, but football's unfortunate like that. Ranieri's job now is to keep heads up and keep working hard and hope that some kind of miracle can be put into motion.   These things do happen.  It looks lost now but momentum is a funny thing and perhaps we saw the first signs of it today.



https://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2019/01/20/fulham-1-2-spurs/

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Cottage Talk Full Time: Fulham vs. Tottenham Hotspur
Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

In this episode, we shared our "initial reactions" to Fulham's 2-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur as Spurs got the winner at the very end of the match. Co-hosts Yannis Tjanetis, Max Cohen, and Emilio Di Nello, who was at Craven Cottage shared their thoughts on another devastating loss for Fulham.


You can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2019/1/20/18190683/cottage-talk-full-time-fulham-vs-tottenham-hotspur

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Ranieri defiant after painful Fulham defeat

A defiant Claudio Ranieri insisted Fulham could take heart from their performance against Tottenham.

The Whites, one off the bottom of the Premier League, were cheered off at half-time, having taken the lead courtesy of Fernando Llorente's own goal and with new signing Ryan Babel impressing on his Fulham debut.

They fought hard in the second half as well, but defensive lapses led to Dele Alli equalising and then, in the final seconds, Harry Winks heading in a winner for Spurs.

"Unbelievable. Our first half was fantastic," Fulham manager Ranieri said after the 2-1 defeat.

"Second half we controlled the match very well in different ways. We gave a gift with the first goal and the second goal is unbelievable.

"We lack experience. Calm, stay calm, keep possession, finish the match.

"We are alive, we continue to fight. The team showed fantastic performance.

"I can only say well done. But stay smart until the end. A lot of them the first time they play in the Premier League."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/we-are-alive-ranieri-defiant-after-fulhams-painful-defeat-against-spurs

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Report: West Ham unlikely to sell Fulham target Michail Antonio

West Ham United winger Michail Antonio is reportedly on the radar of Fulham.

West Ham United are unlikely to sell Fulham target Michail Antonio in the January transfer window, according to The Sun.

It has been reported by the British tabloid that Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri is interested in securing the services of the former Nottingham Forest winger this month.

The report, though, has claimed that West Ham are unlikely to want the 28-year-old to leave the London Stadium in the middle of the season.

Sensible stance

Antonio is a very good player who is versatile enough to operate in a number of positions.

West Ham need to keep hold of the former Sheffield Wednesday star, who is an important player in manager Manuel Pellegrini's team and will be of huge help as the season progresses.

According to WhoScored, the 28-year-old has made 12 starts and eight substitute appearances in the Premier League for the Hammers so far this season, scoring two goals and providing three assists in the process.

During the 2017-18 campaign, Antonio scored three goals and provided one assist in 21 league games for West Ham, according to WhoScored.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2019/01/20/report-west-ham-unlikely-to-sell-fulham-target-michail-antonio/

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Claudio Ranieri on why Fulham's lack of experience cost them dear against Tottenham

A last-second Harry Winks goal meant that Fulham would walk away from the game empty handed once more

Claudio Ranieri has bemoaned Fulham's lack of experience and believes it's one of the big reasons they failed to see out a point against Totteham Hotspur.

A Fernando Llorente own goal gave the home side a great start but second half goals from Dele Alli and Harry Winks, who scored in the final minute of the game, meant that they once again failed to register any points, leaving them seven points from safety in the Premier League.

Both goals were near enough carbon copies of one another as defensive issues raised their heads once more at Craven Cottage, but for the most part the side put in a strong battling performance full of fight and grit.

However, game management is something Fulham have struggled with and that showed for Ranieri, who questioned why his side were still trying to score in the dying moments of the game instead of seeing the match out and taking a draw instead.

Claudio Ranieri has bemoaned Fulham's lack of experience and believes it's one of the big reasons they failed to see out a point against Totteham Hotspur.

A Fernando Llorente own goal gave the home side a great start but second half goals from Dele Alli and Harry Winks, who scored in the final minute of the game, meant that they once again failed to register any points, leaving them seven points from safety in the Premier League.

Both goals were near enough carbon copies of one another as defensive issues raised their heads once more at Craven Cottage, but for the most part the side put in a strong battling performance full of fight and grit.

However, game management is something Fulham have struggled with and that showed for Ranieri, who questioned why his side were still trying to score in the dying moments of the game instead of seeing the match out and taking a draw instead.

"We gave a gift with the first goal and the second goal is unbelievable to explain because we had free kicks and I said to players why do we have to put the ball in the box, why?

"We lack experience. There was a ball close to the corner, take the ball to corner, spend ten seconds but the keeper puts a long ball, we intercept the ball and we want to kick on goal.

"Calm, stay calm, keep possession, finish the match and at the end, after three minutes of extra time they score the goal. 


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

"We are alive, we continue to fight, the team showed fantastic performance. I can only say well done but stay very smart until the end.

"A lot of them it's the first time they play in Premier League. Ryan Babel was a big threat to the Tottenham players and I am very pleased.

"Of course he doesn't have 90 minutes because in Turkey there is a winter break but I hope in one month he has 90 minutes in his legs."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/claudio-ranieri-fulhams-lack-experience-15706647

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Babel makes a good impression on Fulham debut

Ryan Babel was praised by Fulham head coach Claudio Ranieri after making his debut during the 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

The 32-year-old joined the Premier League strugglers this month and was immediately put in the starting eleven for the visit of Tottenham Hotspur.

Babel made a good impression during the first half and went close to scoring on two occasions. He was taken off after 55 minutes and then watched on as Tottenham sealed a 2-1 win in the last minute.

After the game, Ranieri said on the Dutchman, "Ryan was a big threat to the defense of Tottenham Hotspur. I am very pleased with that."

On why he only played 55 minutes, Ranieri added, "Of course he can not finish for ninety minutes, because there was a winter break in Turkey. But I hope he can play ninety minutes within a month. "

Babel himself said on the Fulham website, "It was tough, but it felt good to be back in the Premier League. I already know how tough this competition is. That late goal was very characteristic."



http://www.football-oranje.com/babel-makes-a-good-impression-on-fulham-debut/