Tuesday Fulham Stuff (29/01/19)...

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Cottage Talk: View Of The Opposition - Brighton & Hove Albion
Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

This episode is an interview with Simon Cox. He is a Brighton & Hove Albion supporter, so he was on the show to give the opposition perspective on this upcoming match. This show is our preview episode for this match.


You can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2019/1/28/18200767/cottage-talk-view-of-the-opposition-brighton-hove-albion

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What Fulham boss Claudio Ranieri has said amid reported interest in Gary Cahill and Scott Dann

Fulham have three days to bring in defensive recruits to aid their Premier League survival chances

The transfer window shuts in just three days and so far Fulham have made only the one signing, landing Ryan Babel from Besiktas.

Defence has been an area of concern and one the club have wanted to strengthen in all January, but so far defensive targets have eluded them.

Gary Cahill was a player that Fulham wanted to bring in but a deal has broken down with just days remaining in the window, while Scott Dann of Crystal Palace is the latest to be linked with a move to Craven Cottage.

The club's recruitment team, led by Tony Khan, have done away with their under-28 policy as they target experienced players to try and help them get out of the relegation zone in the Premier League - something manager Claudio Ranieri has been keen for them to target.

He's complained about the lack of experience in his team in recent weeks, most notably after the 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur last week where he blamed that experience for dropping a point.

The window shuts on January 31 and Fulham have work to do if they are going to get anyone in, here's everything Ranieri has said on transfers in his press conference this week.

"I don't know if Cahill is on our lists," he said, "we have alternatives and I am sure the club will try to do the best for the team.

"We are looking for good opportunities.

"If somebody comes in the battle will be very hard, but we are always positive and never give up and we are ready to make the maximum effort.

"I think the recruitment, Tony Khan and everybody are working hard to give us the opportunity for me to choose the best for the team."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/what-fulham-boss-claudio-ranieri-15744202

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Crystal Palace back-up Scott Dann is a realistic Cahill alternative for Fulham

The Sun has linked Fulham with a swoop for Crystal Palace centre-half Scott Dann, with the Eagles rumoured to be eyeing a move for Gary Cahill.

Although earlier reports had claimed Fulham were admirers of Cahill, a deal for Dann would prove a far more realistic option for the Whites.

The proposed move for the Chelsea defender had stalled over the length of the deal, in addition to Cahill's lack of desire to join a Fulham side that is battling the drop.

With Dann, the Whites would retain the services of an experienced defender who will have no qualms sacrificing his all for the cause and getting stuck in with a relegation dogfight.

The Palace defender has seen himself fall down the pecking order at Selhurst Park after his long-term injury, with the pairing of Mamadou Sakho and James Tomkins clearly first choice in Roy Hodgson's eyes.

Like Cahill, Dann has been frozen out of the Premier League this campaign, but the Eagles centre-half could slot into the Fulham backline with more ease than the former Blues captain.

Rather than plotting a move for an unmotivated Gary Cahill, Fulham would do well to target Palace's Scott Dann and enlist a willing defensive stalwart.



https://tbrfootball.com/crystal-palace-back-up-scott-dann-is-a-realistic-cahill-alternative-for-fulham/

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Premier League predictions: Lawro v Yizzy

Liverpool resume their title challenge with a home game against Leicester on Wednesday night, but can the Premier League leaders maintain their unbeaten record at Anfield this season?

BBC Sport's football expert Mark Lawrenson says: "With 15 games to go, I get the feeling Reds boss Jurgen Klopp sees his side's run-in as the last of the three laps of their title race.

"His message to his players is probably that they just need to keep doing what they have been doing so far this season and, if they do that against Leicester, they will beat them."

Lawro is making predictions for all 380 top-flight matches this season, against a variety of guests.

This week he is up against grime star Yizzy, who has a new single, the follow-up to 'Keep Chasing', coming out in February.

The 19-year-old MC is from south London and also has some Welsh roots but grew up an Arsenal fan thanks to the 'Invincibles' title-winning team of 2003-04.

"Sadly the current Gunners side cannot hold a candle to that team," Yizzy told BBC Sport. "The closest players we have got to that right now are Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette.

"That's not to say they are on the same level as Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry but, player-wise, the nearest we have to that kind of standard are our strikers because, if I am honest, our defence is a shambles.

"We've only recently discovered a ball-winning midfielder in the form of Lucas Torreira who, for me, is like a hungry, young Patrick Vieira who can hassle people and also distribute it, which is great to see.

"But in terms of wingers, I don't think we will see the likes of Freddie Ljungberg, Robert Pires or Jose Antonio Reyes again.

"We may play Henrikh Mkhitaryan on the right sometimes, but he's not a winger. So, right through the side there is a lot of work to be done.

"Hopefully that will change. Obviously it is very early to judge Unai Emery as a manager but he has already shown a lot more willingness to strengthen different areas of the team than Arsene Wenger did in the past few years. We have got some hope now."

LAWRO'S PREDICTIONS
Fulham v Brighton

Fulham were knocked out of the FA Cup in the third round by Oldham, so they haven't played since they lost late on to Tottenham.

The Cottagers are on a run of three league defeats, which has left them seven points adrift of safety, and they are running out of time to get out of trouble.

There is an argument that Claudio Ranieri has improved them since taking charge at the start of December - despite Ryan Babel being their only signing so far this month - but he has not improved them enough to win some games.

Therein lies the problem, and it is hard to see things changing much at this stage of the transfer window.

Brighton, who drew with West Brom in the FA Cup on Saturday, have lost their last two league games against Liverpool and Manchester United.

But the Seagulls are still sitting pretty comfortably in mid-table and I don't see them getting dragged into the relegation scrap.

They probably only need another eight points to stay up, with the way the league is shaping up, and I think they will get one of them on Tuesday.

Lawro's prediction: 1-1

Yizzy's prediction: 1-1



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47028482

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Fulham v Brighton: Kamara banned, Seagulls duo available

Fulham have no fresh injury concerns but will be without suspended forward Aboubakar Kamara for the Premier League game with Brighton.

Frenchman Kamara has been banned indefinitely by the club and is the subject of an internal investigation following an incident at the Cottagers' training ground.

Midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has returned to training after injury but will not feature against the Seagulls, while centre-back Alfie Mawson (knee) also remains out.

Provisional squad: Rico, Bettinelli, Fabri, Fosu-Mensah, Le Marchand, Christie, Odoi, Chambers, Ream, Ayite, Bryan, Seri, Cisse, Johansen, De La Torre, McDonald, Kebano, R Sessegnon, Cairney, S Sessegnon, Schurrle, Vietto, Mitrovic, Babel.

Brighton will have first-choice goalkeeper Mat Ryan and defender Leon Balogun available for selection.

Australia international Ryan has not played since Boxing Day due to his participation in the Asian Cup with his country, while centre-back Balogun missed Saturday's FA Cup draw with West Brom because of illness.

Iran winger Alireza Jahanbakhsh is still at the Asian Cup ahead of Monday's semi-final against Japan. Jose Izquierdo (knee) and Bernardo (hamstring) also remain unavailable.

Provisional squad: Ryan, Button, Bruno, Montoya, Bong, Dunk, Duffy, Burn, Balogun, Stephens, Kayal, Bissouma, Propper, March, Gross, Knockaert, Locadia, Gyokeres, Andone, Murray.



http://londonfootballnews.co.uk/fulham/fulham-v-brighton-kamara-banned-seagulls-duo-available/

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Ranieri must somehow pull off this quality signing to save Fulham from the dreadful jaws of relegation

Ibrahim Amadou signing will plug multiple holes in Fulham's leaky defence

Football Espana have recently published a report which claims that Sevilla central midfielder Ibrahim Amadou is being linked with a possible move to Premier League strugglers Fulham.

Fulham went on a rather enviable shopping spree prior to the start of this season. With some brilliant purchases like Andre Schurrle, Jean Michael Seri and even Luciano Vietto from Atletico Madrid, they also signed Aleksandar Mitrovic on a permanent basis.

They received the kind of funding most clubs could only dream of but with more than half the season already behind us, Fulham find themselves in a very tough situation and are left with no option but to shell out more money to ensure they're able to maintain their Premier League status.

With 23 games gone, Fulham have got just 14 points on the board and find themselves in a troublesome 19th place. With only Huddersfield doing worse than them, there are serious issues that Claudio Ranieri needs to address before the end of the transfer window.

The defending by this side has been appalling at times and that has been seen in the fact that they have conceded 51 goals already this season – this results in an average of more than 2 goals conceded per match, which can never be good in the most competitive league in the world.

Currently 7 points from getting out of the dreaded relegation zone, their fixture list doesn't make it easier for them either. Ranieri must go for a defensive midfielder who can come in and guard a leaky back-line.

Reports are suggesting that former Lille player Ibrahim Amadou could be the player to come in and do the job. Having captained the Ligue 1 side during his three seasons in France, the Frenchman made the move to Sevilla in the summer of 2018.

But since his move at the start of the season, he has made just 8 appearances, with six of those coming off the bench. He has really struggled to nail down a starting spot and remains on the fringes of the squad.

With Fulham interested, it would be smart for him to move to England as his strength and physical style of play would suit Fulham. He can sit in front of the two centre-halves and dictate the play with quick passing and subtle dribbles.

His ability to play exquisite defence-splitting long passes is trumped only by his immense defensive work rate. He is also capable of playing as a centre-half, which will also be a massive asset to a leaky Fulham side. Ranieri must pull off this signing at any cost as their whole season is hanging in the balance.



https://soccersouls.com/2019/01/29/ranieri-must-somehow-pull-off-this-quality-signing-to-save-fulham-from-the-dreadful-jaws-of-relegation/

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Time to get Seri-ous! Fulham v Brighton – Preview.

Fulham welcome Chris Hughton's Brighton and Hove Albion to Craven Cottage tomorrow night in what is now unmistakably a must-win game.

Despite the desolation of the last-gasp defeat to Tottenham, there would have been plenty of positives for Claudio Ranieri to take from a battling performance. The Whites created a number of good chances in the first half and certainly should have been in front by more than a single goal at the break. Eyebrows were raised when Fulham brought in Ryan Babel, a 32 year-old winger with shocking red hair, during the transfer window but, on the basis of his powerful display against Spurs, it was clear that the former Liverpool winger offers something different. Babel showed determination, fight, an ability to link up with Aleksandar Mitrovic, and all that was missing was a deserved debut goal.

Results certainly haven't gone for Ranieri since the new year. Now's the time for Fulham to be brave, play with some spirit and treat our remaining games like Cup finals. Draws at home won't be good enough any more – especially when you look at the fixtures that our relegation rivals have in the weeks ahead. Brighton are brilliantly drilled by Hughton and their continued survival in the top flight is a story in itself. Albion will be tough to breakdown but pose a real threat on the break as well as set pieces, with their tall centre halves Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy likely to cause problems. There is also the ex-Fulham contingent with David Button, who has been deputising for Matty Ryan in recent weeks, recently joined by Dan Burn.

Ranieri's team selections have been baffling for a while. I hope that he can reintroduce Ryan Sessegnon, who seems to have been treated a little shabbily in the past few weeks, especially with some of the criticism that has come the teenager's way. Sessegnon is a prodigious talent who is still learning his way at the highest level, but his quality has been evident in the way he scored a vital goal against Wolves and then set up that last-gasp winner for Mitrovic against Huddersfield. I feel he offers far more than Andre Schurrle at the moment – and the pace of him and Ryan Babel could make Fulham's front three a bit more formidable.

If Ranieri was being bold, he could also sacrifice a centre back to play both Jean-Michael Seri and Tom Cairney in front of Calum Chambers. The five at the back might have helped stabilise things defensively for a while, but it seems as though teams have been able to figure out the gameplan. Fulham need to score goals and take the game to the opposition, particularly at home. We have only scored more than goal under Ranieri once – and that was against Southampton, back in his first game in charge. The combination of Seri and Cairney have the guile to unlock even the tightest of defences and, if Sessegnon and Babel are raiding down the flanks, then Seri will have the runners that his passing game thrives upon.

The margin for error is now very slender: if we don't pick up three points against Brighton tomorrow night, I fear the fat lady might be clearing her throat.

My match prediction: Fulham 2-1 Brighton!

COYW!



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/01/time-to-get-seri-ous-fulham-v-brighton-preview/

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West Brom signing this Norwegian star is an absolute no-brainer – would replace the ageing Barry

Why Stefan Johansen could be the perfect candidate to replace Gareth Barry

According to reports from Birmingham Live, Fulham midfield outcast Stefan Johansen is being watched carefully by Darren Moore's West Bromwich Albion side who are in the market for a box-to-box midfielder who can control the pace of a game.

West Brom have had a fantastic season in front of goal but have let themselves down on many occasions by not finishing games off. Even with some of the players enjoying what is probably the form of their lives, there is a lot of work to do before this talented West Brom side reaches full potential.

Currently at 4th place, Moore's men will be eager to break past Sheffield United and Norwich City to try and beat Leeds United to the title but with 7 points separating them from the top of the table, this isn't going to be a cake-walk at all.

For them to even think about top-spot, they will have to consistently win games – something they haven't been able to do so far this season. Even with the West Brom strikers seemingly in top form, the results haven't quite shown them in the best light.

With Dwight Gayle and Jay Rodriguez both fighting it out with 14 goals each, it's the kind of striker situation that most clubs can only dream of but the recent loss of Harvey Barnes to a loan recall has obviously affected this West Brom side.

Also, Gareth Barry and Chris Brunt are both crucial members of their starting XI, which is a cause for concern as well. With Barry at 37 and Brunt at 34, Moore has to think about replacing the veterans with an experienced professional.

As suggested by Birmingham Live, Fulham's Stefan Johansen could be the perfect guy for the job and West Brom are keen on bringing the Norwegian to the Hawthorns.

Having made a name for himself at Strømsgodset in Norway, he was signed by Celtic in 2014 before eventually joining Fulham in the summer of 2016. He has made just 12 appearances this campaign. A box-to-box midfielder, his passing range and quality are his main assets.

Capable of acting as the link between the defence and the attack, his long balls and through passes are always top-notch. He is also an excellent finisher in and around the box.

His link-up play is excellent and will suit Moore's style of play while he can be the perfect replacement for the ageing Barry. This move is a no-brainer for West Brom and they must pull this off at the earliest.



https://soccersouls.com/2019/01/29/west-brom-signing-this-norwegian-star-is-an-absolute-no-brainer-would-replace-the-ageing-barry/

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Fulham signing this out-of-contract Premier League veteran would be a season-changing move

Why Fulham need to bring in the experienced Antonio Valencia

The Daily Mail has revealed that Fulham are targeting out-of-contract Manchester United star Antonio Valencia. The 33-year-old has less than six months left on his current deal with the Red Devils but has already been told that he can leave. This has been brought to the attention of a few Premier League sides who look for an affordable defensive option, which the Ecuadorian brings to the table.

Valencia, who joined nearly ten years ago from Wigan Athletic has been a mainstay in Manchester United's team-sheet. He started as a right-winger before transforming into a right-back. During the course of that, the 33-year-old has made 338 appearances for the club, with 324 of those coming in the Premier League. This kind of experience cannot be bough, which is exactly why Fulham need to out-do the Magpies to sign the Ecuadorian.

With Antonio Valencia allowed to leave, there is a great chance that a few more sides enter the race as they all look towards surviving the Premier League. But for Fulham, more than any other side, they need the experienced right-back on their books, because if for nothing else, he can provide them with a cut-rate defensive option.

On a larger scale, Valencia's experience and ability will be crucial to Claudio Ranieri as the season becomes tougher. With Fulham sitting in the relegation zone, eight points from safety. They need reinforcements and having signed Ryan Babel, the former Leicester City boss believes that either Danny Simpson (Daily Mail) or Antonio Valencia are his defensive options now in January.

Both are experienced Premier League stars and have both won at least one Premier League title during the course of their career. However, while Simpson will be a long-term option, Valencia's experience and leadership will be crucial for Fulham to survive this season, which is something they need to make sure they will do.

Otherwise spending over the limit in the summer would make no sense for Fulham. If they do get relegated, then in all likelihood, they'll lose at least half of their players they brought in.

For them, time will only get tougher from here on in, and adding someone as experienced as Antonio Valencia will not hurt them, as Ryan Babel has proved so far.



https://www.mediareferee.com/2019/01/29/fulham-signing-this-out-of-contract-premier-league-veteran-would-be-a-season-changing-move/

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From defence to midfield: The rise of Calum Chambers

Sunday 11th November 2018. A daunting task faced the Whites. A trip to Anfield. Jurgen Klopp's title hopefuls against relegation contenders.

When the team was released at 11am, most of the travelling Fulham faithful were baffled by the line-up. One name stuck out on the list. Calum Chambers. Was Slaviša really playing the on loan Arsenal defender as a central midfielder? Does Slaviša really want to keep his job? Has he given up completely? The feeling of doom and gloom around the concourse at Anfield was all-consuming. 'We're going to lose, 100%, mate'. Of course, Fulham did lose as it turned out. But it could have been very different.

We all knew what happened that day, but Chambers starred in his new role. He provided some ballast in front of a shaky defence, offering grit, determination and he definitely wasn't afraid to get stuck in. It was a masterclass in a ball-winning role that showed the Fulham fans something they hadn't seen before during Chambers' unconvincing start to his loan spell at Craven Chambers. The one-time England international hadn't pulled up any trees at centre back and was utterly dreadful when tried at right back in the desperate defeat to Cardiff.

Having arrived amidst much fanfare as Fulham bought in a host of players towards the end of the summer transfer window, Chambers couldn't establish himself at his new club. He was rejuvenated in a new role, however, although the battling performance at Anfield wasn't enough to save Slavisa Jokanovic's job. Replacing the Serb was a man who knew all about building from the back: a far more defensive coach in Claudio Ranieri. Chambers would have been forgiven for wondering whether he would have to prove himself all over again.

As it turned out, Chambers have been one of the mainstays of Ranieri's side, retaining his defensive midfield role even after the Italian switched to a five-man defence. He has been unfortunate not to open his goalscoring account for the Whites, forcing a splendid save out of Kasper Schmeichel and going close with a number of efforts in the SW6 derby at Chelsea. It is workmanlike displays in front of the defence that have caught the eye – Chambers simply never stops running  Nobody would have predicted that the Arsenal would become a regular in midfield, especially after Fulham decided to supplement their promotion-winning quartet with the likes of Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Jean-Michael Seri. Anguissa has had to play second-fiddle to Chambers, who must surely be playing some of the best football of his career.

His energy, bravery and a desire to work his socks off for the cause have quickly won over the Fulham faithful. Chambers covered almost every blade of grass in an outstanding display against Tottenham last weekend, where the Whites deserved more than that gut-wrenching last-gasp defeat. In the unlikely event that the Whites manage to pull off another great escape, then Chambers would surely have to be one of the Khans' first signings. Even if Ranieri's side drop through the relegation trap door, Chambers' attitude and determination won't be forgotten. His tireless running has shown every player who finds themselves on the sidelines how to get back into the action – there's no substitute for hard work.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/01/from-defence-to-midfield-the-rise-of-calum-chambers/

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Albion keeper David Button to miss out on poignant Fulham return

DAVID BUTTON is poised to miss out on a poignant return to Fulham – after proving he is up to the job in the Premier League.

Regular No.1 Mathew Ryan is expected to be back in goal for Albion at Craven Cottage tonight for the first time since Boxing Day following his return from Asian Cup duty for Australia.

Button, who lost his Championship place with promoted Fulham midway through last season, has been an able deputy in his first taste of top flight responsibility in the absence of Ryan.

Boss Chris Hughton told The Argus: "I was always confident David would do well for us. If you are worried that Maty is going to be away for that period of time and you don't know what you've got then you've got sleepless nights.

"The reason you bring somebody in you feel can do a good job is to give that reassurance. He's done every bit as well as I thought he would."

Ryan returned on Saturday after Australia's exit from the quarter-finals in the United Arab Emirates against the host nation.

He trained with goalkeeping coach Ben Roberts on Sunday and with the full squad yesterday and Hughton said: "He's fine. He's used to travelling."

Gaetan Bong returns at left-back, with Bernardo still sidelined by hamstring trouble.

Bong was deliberately excluded from Saturday's home FA Cup draw against West Brom and Martin Montoya switched to left-back due to Bernardo's injury situation.

Hughton expects Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy to have their hands full again with Aleksandar Mitrovic, Fulham's main hope of beating the drop.

Albion were interested in the Serbian, who scored in the 2-2 draw at the Amex in September, before his move from Newcastle to the banks of the River Thames.

Hughton said: "Not just them, I think he gives most centre-half pairings a difficult day. That's the way he plays. He's a very physical player, a very good player.

"He's a big player for them and we know what his strengths are. If we felt he was a tough one in the home game, we have been warned and are prepared for it."



https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/17391376.albion-keeper-david-button-to-miss-out-on-poignant-fulham-return/

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Valencia keen on Fulham teenager Tyrese Francois


Tyrese Francois is wanted by Spanish side Valencia

Fulham teenager Tyrese Francois is the latest Premier League academy player to attract interest from overseas - with Valencia hoping to sign him on a free this summer, according to Sky sources.

The 18-year-old midfielder is likely to be offered a new contract by Fulham when his current two-year deal ends in June.

Valencia are confident of enticing the youngster to La Liga, but will face competition from British clubs.

Crystal Palace and Celtic are also aware of Francois, who has been operating in numerous positions across midfield for Fulham's Premier League 2 side.

Francois moved to England from Australia with his family six years ago and he now holds dual-nationality.

He joined Fulham in 2017 and was involved with the first team squad for last summer's pre-season programme in Spain.

Meanwhile, his younger brother Marlee, 16, is close to joining Bristol City.

The Sky Bet Championship club have been alerted to the older sibling's situation and could offer him a quicker route to first-team football.



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11621129/valencia-keen-on-fulham-teenager-tyrese-francois

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Club waiting on final decision from Fulham after agreeing terms with player

Hurriyet report Turkish club Yeni Malatyaspor are waiting for an answer from Fulham with regards to the transfer of Aboubakar Kamara.

In recent weeks Kamara has been strongly linked with a move to the Turkish club but his recent altercation with a Fulham staff member has complicated things.

According to Hurriyet, Malatyaspor president Adil Gevrik is still in London holding talks with Fulham and the Premier League side are looking to loan Kamara until the end of the season.

However, the London side are hoping to offload him to a Championship club at this stage rather than the Super Lig side.

It's claimed Yeni Malatyaspor have agreed personal terms with the player and are now waiting on a final decision from Fulham.

If Fulham decide to loan him to the Championship, then Yeni Malatyaspor will look to sign a different striker before the transfer deadline, so they need to know soon.

With the arrival of Ryan Babel, Kamara has dropped down the pecking order at Craven Cottage and is likely to move on in this window.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-waiting-final-decision-fulham-agreeing-terms-player/

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Claudio Ranieri explains what must happen before Fulham can offload their fringe players

A number of Fulham's fringe players have been linked with moves away this January

Fulham will only sell players if they have a replacement already signed this January.

A host of the club's stars have been linked with moves away from Craven Cottage this transfer window, with Stefan Johansen, Neeskens Kebano, Kevin McDonald, Aboubakar Kamara and Fabri among those names.

However, Fulham have only managed to sign one player so far in this window, securing the services of Ryan Babel from Besiktas until the end of the season with defensive targets so far eluding them.

The only players to have been sold are Cauley Woodrow and Stephen Humphrys, but both of these were already out on loan during the first part of the season and had no place in Fulham's first team.

The transfer window shuts in two days time, and while players that have played bit parts this campaign are being linked with moves away, Ranieri insists he wants to maintain what he calls a 'very good group'.

When asked if players would be leaving, he said: "Could be – if somebody comes, somebody may leave the club.

"I spoke with some players, and we said maybe it is much better for them to go and play and not stay here.

"But of course I have to replace these players. If a player goes I have to replace.

"We want to maintain this group, because it is a very good group, and I need everybody. Everybody that is available, and I have to choose the best XI.

"I am optimistic we can get players in, one, two, three, I don't know. Maybe four!"



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/claudio-ranieri-explains-what-must-15745980

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Player 'has been proposed' to Fulham in the 'past few hours' for January move

It wouldn't really be the end of the transfer window without Domagoj Vida getting involved.

Il Messaggero report that AS Roma are tempted by the Besiktas player, as sports director Monchi looks to bring in a defender before the window closes.

The Croatian 'has been proposed' in the 'past few hours' to Fulham and Inter Milan, according to the Italian newspaper.

There's no further claims on a possible deal, but Fulham have been linked repeatedly with Vida, who impressed for his country at the World Cup in Russia.

In December we covered claims from Turkey that Fulham were lining up an offer for the player ahead of the January window, with the club said to be aware they needed to to strengthen Claudio Ranieri's options quickly.

Then, on January 3rd, France's Le10 Sport got involved and claimed the Premier League club had made Vida their priority and could submit an offer 'very soon'.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/player-proposed-fulham-past-hours-january-move/

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Dale Stephens on a key spell for Albion in their quest for Premier League safety

Albion's visit to Fulham tonight launches what Dale Stephens has described as a "massive period" in their quest to achieve Premier League safety sooner rather than later.

The Seagulls face six of the seven sides below them in their next eight matches, beginning with the team one place off the bottom and 12 points adrift of them.

After coming through a difficult run of fixtures largely unscathed, Stephens knows the next sequence will define whether Albion have a relatively relaxed or anxious conclusion to their second year back in the top flight.

The midfield general said: "It's going to be a massive period for us. Our form has generally been good and especially with the fixtures coming up, against teams in and around us, it's a very important couple of weeks.

"With good results we know we can put (more) space between us and the bottom. That's got to be our main focus.

"It speaks for itself. If you can beat the teams below you, you are going to stand a better chance of staying in the division.

"We might be so many points better off than they (Fulham) are but we need the three points just as much as anybody else.

"We know we are nowhere finished what we want to do this season. The quicker we can get to 40 points and the safety mark the goalposts might change but we've got three points to play for and we are very much looking forward to it."

A Premier League visit to Craven Cottage was a long way off for Stephens 12 years ago. Fulham were in the top flight while he was on loan to non-League Droylsden from Bury, playing in the fifth tier.

The 29-year-old Lancastrian has worked his way up the divisions via Oldham, Rochdale, Southampton (on loan), Charlton (above right) and the Seagulls, who secured his services five years ago tomorrow. This evening he makes his 53rd start for Albion in the Premier League.

"I think any time I have stepped up into a division is by promotion and the way this came around was the same route," he said.

"It's something I've been proud of. When you step up again you've got to prove yourself again and it's something I quite enjoy.

"Eighteen months into my Premier League career I'm enjoying every minute of it. We've improved already on what we did last year to this part of the season.

"If you look at the top six home and away, we have come closer against those teams. It's all about improving as individuals and as a team."

Stephens' regular central role in the engine room has been slightly revised since Chris Hughton reverted from his customary 4-4-1-1 system to 4-3-3, Pascal Gross dropping deeper to form a midfield trio which also incorporates Davy Propper (below), backed up by Yves Bissouma and Beram Kayal.

Opportunities for Stephens to get on the scoresheet are few and far between, although he came closest to breaking the deadlock in Saturday's 0-0 FA Cup draw at home to West Brom with a shot tipped onto the post by keeper Jonathan Bond prior to Propper replacing him.

"The overall feeling from the weekend is disappointment," Stephens said. "I think we had 26 opportunities, had a lot of the ball, and we were disappointed we couldn't do more with it.

"My role has probably changed slightly in terms of the shape we are playing at the moment.

"I'm the deeper one of the three in midfield and your chances of getting into the box are very limited.

"But I do try. I had a chance at the weekend. It's probably not my main focus going into a game and I'm happy to do that (job).

"The ultimate aim is to pick up three points and I'll do everything in my power to do that."

Stephens broke his Premier League duck on Albion's last trip to the capital at the beginning of the month.

They uncharacteristically surrendered a commanding lead at West Ham to blemish an otherwise satisfactory return of five points from as many matches, including a win and draw at home to Everton and Arsenal, followed by narrow defeats by Liverpool and Manchester United.

"We missed a trick there," Stephens admitted. "Not too many teams go to West Ham and go 2-0 up. That's been part of our make up really. Once we go ahead we generally manage to see it out.

"Looking back, that was probably the biggest disappointment throughout a tough period. But we've got tough games coming up. I would argue these games coming up are more important."

Beginning with Fulham. They have struggled despite spending more than £100 million since promotion via the play-offs last season and replacing the adventurous Slavisa Jokanovic in November with the more practical Claudio Ranieri.

"I wouldn't say I'm surprised," Stephens said. "It's a tough division. Clubs have different views and the way they go about it.

"They've opted to spend a lot of money. I think it goes to show the pressure that it brings along.

"We are going to look after ourselves. It's going to be a tough game. We've known the Fulham side for the last few years. They are a good, footballing team."



https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/17391088.dale-stephens-on-a-key-spell-for-albion-in-their-quest-for-premier-league-safety/

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Nottingham Forest make contact with club to try and sign promotion-winning midfielder



Sky Bet Championship side Nottingham Forest have made an approach to sign Fulham midfielder Kevin McDonald, according to reports from Football Insider.

The 30-year-old played an integral role in the Cottagers' midfield last season, making 46 appearances as the London club secured promotion to the Premier League under Slavisa Jokanovic via the play-offs.

But since the arrival of Claudio Ranieri at Craven Cottage, the Scottish international has played just eight minutes of football for the club, in a 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Boxing Day.

The Cottagers have given the green light for the midfielder to leave before the transfer window slams shut on Thursday evening, with Martin O'Neill's Nottingham Forest making an approach to sign the 30-year old.

The Reds were linked with a move to sign the Scotsman at the start of last season under Mark Warburton, however it seems as if the Reds have emerged as front-runners to sign McDonald after making an approach.

Forest still remain well in the hunt for a play-off finish come the end of the season – the Reds currently sit 9th in the Sky Bet Championship table, four points off the top six after defeating Wigan Athletic 3-1 at the weekend.

The Verdict

Kevin McDonald would be a fantastic signing for Forest.

He was the unsung hero for Fulham last season in their promotion to the Premier League, and finds himself unlucky not to be a regular in this struggling Fulham side.

He has experience of being successful at this level, which could be beneficial for the Reds in the business end of the campaign.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/nottingham-forest-make-contact-with-club-to-try-and-sign-promotion-winning-midfielder/

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Friday Night Football under the lights - Fulham on General Sale now

Friday Night Football returns to London Stadium on 22 February when Fulham are the visitors, and you can secure your seat with tickets on General Sale now!

West Ham United will be looking to get the weekend started in style against their west London rivals, and complete a Premier League double over the Cottagers, having defeated them 2-0 at Craven Cottage in December.

Buy your Fulham tickets here now

Don't miss what is sure to be a cracking atmosphere under the lights as a 60,000 crowd get behind the Hammers in a derby duel.

Tickets start at just £35 for adults and £20 concessions and are available to purchase now by clicking here, by calling 0333 030 1966 or visiting us at the London Stadium Ticket Office.

Hurry before they sell out and don't miss the chance to be there for an unforgettable Friday night.



Read more at https://www.whufc.com/news/articles/2019/january/29-january/friday-night-football-under-lights-fulham-general-sale-now#UIuolxPGxfBKqXMV.99

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Claudio Ranieri outlines why Sergio Rico will continue as his number one at Fulham
The 25-year-old has kept three clean sheets in his 17 appearance for the club since joining on loan

Claudio Ranieri will continue with Sergio Rico as his number one at Fulham despite the side's defensive issues continuing this season.

The 25-year-old has kept just three clean sheets in 17 appearances for the club this season but has seen himself claim the number one jersey from Marcus Bettinelli and Fabri at Craven Cottage after arriving on a season-long loan from Sevilla in the summer.

He's done well in his six-months between the sticks in England but came in for criticism after the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur last week for not coming out to collect crosses and command his box.

There have even been reports that Bettinelli could be in line for recall against Brighton and Hove Albion this evening in the Premier League, but Ranieri doesn't see the point in changing goalkeepers and believes doing that will make the situation even worse.

He said: "Bettinelli is the number two and Fabri is the number three.

"It's difficult to change, because if you change every time you will never find the solution.

There have even been reports that Bettinelli could be in line for recall against Brighton and Hove Albion this evening in the Premier League, but Ranieri doesn't see the point in changing goalkeepers and believes doing that will make the situation even worse.

He said: "Bettinelli is the number two and Fabri is the number three.

"It's difficult to change, because if you change every time you will never find the solution.

"The psychology is totally different and I need to give the support to my keeper all the time."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/claudio-ranieri-outlines-sergio-rico-15746260

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Report: Fulham eye move to sign Benfica's Andre Almeida

Fulham are struggling badly in the Premier League this season, and despite spending big in the summer transfer window, they are facing the prospect of relegation.

Bolstering the defence is one of Claudio Ranieri's major tasks in January, and the former Leicester City boss has made no secret of the need for a new right-sided defender this month.

Manchester United loanee Timothy Fosu-Mensah has hugely disappointed and Ranieri doesn't see him as a part of his plans.

According to reports from O Jogo, the Cottagers are looking to sign Benfica's Andre Almeida in January.

The report claims that Fulham have made a £7 million bid for the Portugal international; however, they will not enter negotiations with Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira.

The 28-year-old has been playing at the Estadio da Luz ever since joining from Belenenses in 2011 and has won four Primeira Liga titles.

Almeida has been in good form since the start of the 2017/18 campaign, managing 13 assists in his 49 league appearances for Benfica.

He would be a brilliant signing for the Cottagers, but it remains to be seen whether £7 million bid would be enough to secure his signature.



https://sportslens.com/report-fulham-eye-move-to-sign-benficas-andre-almeida/257919/