Saturday Fulham Stuff - 03/08/19...

[WhiteJC]

Results

Friday
Luton	3-3	Middlesborough

[WhiteJC]

EFL Season Launch

Tuesday's EFL Season Launch saw representatives from all 72 clubs come together at Nottingham Forest's City Ground to celebrate the start of the 2019/20 campaign.

Players, managers, club staff, supporters and community participants from across the League took part in a unique photo which saw all 72 club representatives placed on a pitch-sized map to showcase the breadth and depth of the League and its Clubs.

Representing our club was Stuart Gray.

The journey begins for us this weekend when we face Barnsley at Oakwell.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/02/efl-season-launch

[WhiteJC]

Tottenham Hotspur to miss out on Ryan Sessegnon?

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly facing the possibility of missing out on a deal for Fulham defender Ryan Sessegnon in the latter stages of the summer transfer window.

Spurs have been strongly linked with a move for the 19-year-old since the end of the 2018-19 campaign, where the teenager made 35 Premier League appearances for the Cottagers.

According to The Mirror, Tottenham want to wait until the last minute to push for a deal as they are looking to sell Danny Rose first.

The report, though, claims that Fulham now expect to keep hold of the England Under-21 international, who will see his contract at Craven Cottage expire at the end of the 2019-20 campaign.

Fulham will open their Championship season against Barnsley on Saturday afternoon.

Sessegnon, however, will not be involved for Scott Parker's side on the opening weekend as the youngster is currently nursing a hamstring problem.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/spurs/transfer-talk/news/tottenham-to-miss-out-on-sessegnon_366757.html

[WhiteJC]

Scott Parker says time running out in Tottenham's race to replace Danny Rose with Ryan Sessegnon

Tottenham Hotspur are looking to find a buyer for Danny Rose before signing Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon, say reports.

Rose was allowed to look for a new club this summer but is yet to leave north London with less than a week to go until the Premier League transfer deadline.

The Express reports that Spurs are waiting on selling the England international before they make a decisive move for long-time target Sessegnon.

European heavyweights like PSG, Juventus, Atletico Madrid and even local rivals Arsenal have been linked with Rose but he is determined to wait for the right offer.

Sessegnon is eager to join Mauricio Pochettino's side and a £25 million deal including Josh Onomah and Georges-Kevin Nkdoudou has been proposed.

But with time running out for an agreement to be reached, Fulham boss Scott Parker is confident that the 19-year-old will be in his squad next season.

"At this present moment, I expect Ryan still to be here when the window shuts," he said.

"Obviously I have read the speculation. Will it affect him? That would be up to Ryan.

"It's not as if the phone has been ringing off the hook, a bid every other day for him and Fulham are turning it down for him to have the hump.

"I had this too as a young player. But if there's one good thing about the transfer window, it's that come 5 o'clock next week when the door shuts, he can't go anywhere.

"As a player you either get your head down, or it affects you. Ryan is not that boy anyway. I'm just looking at getting him as fit as we can and let's see what he can do. I've spoken to him.

"The conversations have been mainly around his fitness. I don't know how long it will be until he's ready."



Read more at https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/ryan-sessegnon-tottenham-25m-danny-rose-fulham-scott-parker-manager#mJ0AjqkylZUkyDzZ.99

[WhiteJC]

Matchday Preview

Barnsley v Fulham - Oakwell - Saturday 3rd August 2019 - 3pm

The opposition

It's been a busy summer for Barnsley who have seen no fewer than 10 new players come through the door. Business was needed, though, as they lost key players Adam Davies, Liam Lindsay and Ethan Pinnock to Championship rivals. The Tykes are one of the favourites for relegation this season with the bookmakers, but Fulham know a difficult test awaits at Oakwell as Barnsley were unbeaten at home (15 wins, eight draws) as they won automatic promotion from League One in 2018/19.
Barnsley doubts

Kenny Dougall, Jacob Brown
Fulham doubt

Ryan Sessegnon
Tickets

Supporters are able to purchase tickets over the phone by calling the Fulham Ticket Office on 0203 871 0810 (option 3) before 3pm on Friday 2nd August, when tickets will go off sale. Supporters will be able to purchase tickets on the day at the North Stand Turnstiles (cash only), with a £2 price increase on matchday. Any supporters wishing to purchase a junior ticket on the day will need to visit the home ticket office at Oakwell.
Rail travel

Barnsley have sent us advice for fans arriving by train, due to construction works taking place. Click this link for details.
Weather

It is expected to be a cloudy but dry day in Barnsley, with temperatures around 20 degrees at kick-off.
Pre-match

The Metrodome is the designated away fans pub and is just a stone's throw from the away end. Alternatively, Barnsley's fan zone at the stadium welcomes away supporters.
Away fan guide

Follow this link for Barnsley's away fan guide.
Dafabet match odds

Barnsley: 11/5

Draw: 5/2

Fulham: 23/20

Odds correct at the time of writing. 18+ only. begambleaware.org
He said

"I think it's a great, great opportunity for our players to show where they are, what level they're at. We feel they're good enough to perform at this level, and there's no bigger test than the first game of the season, with Mitrović, Cavaleiro, Kamara, Knockaert. You can reel them off the tongue, but I think it's really exciting for players at this club to have teams like Fulham coming." – Dale Tonge, Barnsley first team coach.
FFCtv

Subscribers can visit the new FFCtv service for a live commentary of the game. The livestream won't be available as the tie has been selected for an International TV pick.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/02/matchday-preview

[WhiteJC]

Barnsley v Fulham

Jacob Brown scored eight goals in 32 league games as the Tykes won promotion to the Championship last season

Barnsley return to the Championship and have as many as 10 players who could make their debuts.

But striker Jacob Brown is missing after being injured in pre-season and Kenny Dougall is also sidelined after breaking a leg in March.

Fulham, relegated last season, are set to include high-profile new signings Ivan Cavaleiro and Anthony Knockaert.

But Ryan Sessegnon (hamstring) and Alfie Mawson (knee) are out, and Stefan Johansen (shin) is a doubt.

Match facts
    Barnsley have lost their previous four league matches against Fulham, having been defeated during both matches in the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons in the Championship.
    Fulham haven't faced Barnsley on the opening day of a league season since 1983-84, losing 3-0 at Oakwell under Malcolm Macdonald.
    Barnsley - 4-0 winners over Oxford United on the opening day last season - haven't won on opening day in consecutive seasons in the Football League since doing so in five in a row between 1974-75 and 1978-79.
    Fulham have lost just one of their past 13 away league matches in Yorkshire (W7 D5 L1), though that defeat was their most recent visit in a 1-0 reverse at Huddersfield Town last season.
    Barnsley are yet to lose a home match in any competition in 27 games under Daniel Stendel (W17 D10 L0) and were the only team in the top four English divisions to remain unbeaten at home in all competitions during 2018-19.
    Fulham won the fewest away league points of any side in the top four English divisions in 2018-19, picking up just five points in their 19 games (W1 D2 L16).



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49135734

[WhiteJC]

'A huge problem for football' Exeter City chairman Julian Tagg frustrated as Jay Stansfield joins Fulham

Young starlet leaves - and there's nothing Grecians can do

Exeter chairman Julian Tagg has spoken of his growing frustration that City's talented youngsters are being snapped up by bigger teams and leaving clubs like the Grecians shortchanged.

Tagg's comments come when it emerged that 16-year-old striker Jay Stansfield has opted not to sign the club's offer of a two-year apprenticeship at St James Park and join Championship side Fulham's Under 18 side instead.

City have received compensation for the role they have played in developing Stansfield, but after seeing similar happen with Ethan Ampadu, who also rejected an offer from City to join Premier League Chelsea, Tagg is growing increasingly frustrated that a Category 3 Academy like Exeter's is not being fairly compensated when it produces such gems.

"While Fulham have paid above what we would likely get in an arbitration fee from the Professional Football Compensation Committee, and therefore it was sensible for the club to accept, the ability for football clubs, with much bigger resources at their disposal, to take young players from successful academies like Exeter City at a fraction of the cost of which they are valued, is a problem that football still needs to solve," the City chief passionately said.

"We, like many clubs, feel the Elite Performance Player Plan's rules – which fix transfer fees between academies – is heavily weighted in favour of sides higher up the football pyramid and ignores clubs like Exeter City, which do a tremendous job in producing talented young footballers.

"We, of course, must praise the fine work of all of our staff at Exeter City Academy who continue to work tirelessly to develop the next group of excellent footballers and well-rounded young men.

"However, those efforts are being undermined by the current system in place and we will continue to work with the Football League to find a solution to this. And that is not just for our Academy, but for all those coaches and staff around Leagues One and Two, who continue to work hard to produce the next generation of talented footballers for the English game.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks to Jay and his family for their hard work and dedication to Exeter City and we wish them all the very best for the future.

"Every effort was made to keep Jay at the club, but our ethos has always been to put the player's wishes first and the move to a category one club in Fulham was what was felt best for Jay, by both him and his family, and we look forward to following his continued success in the game."

Of course Stansfield's move ends any romantic notion that, for now at least, he will wear the number nine shirt which has been retired for the past nine seasons in tribute to his father, Adam, the popular former striker who passed away at the age of 31 in August 2010.

Stansfield jnr caught the eye in a Youth Cup victory over Plymouth Argyle for the Grecians last season and one can only wish the young man well as he leaves Devon and takes the next turn on what will hopefully be a long career path in football.

Such is the attachment City - and the club's fans - have with the Stansfield family, and the Adam Stansfield Foundation, which was set up following Adam's passing, they will undoubtedly follow the career path of Jay with great interest.

Whatever Stansfield's reasons are for wanting to head to Fulham, they must be respected, but Tagg is equally right in pointing out the shabby way lower league clubs get treated in such situations.

The Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) is a long-term strategy with the aim of developing more and better home-grown players, which was introduced in 2012. It was voted on by clubs in the EFL and there were 46 votes in favour, 22 against, three no-shows and one abstention.

Many EFL clubs felt they were bullied into accepting the Premier League's proposal because had they voted no, the Premier League threatened to withdraw over £5 million of funding that they give to lower league clubs each year for youth development.



https://www.devonlive.com/sport/football/fulham-exeter-city-championship-football-3110749

[WhiteJC]

Barnsley vs Fulham preview


Ivan Cavaleiro is set for his Fulham debut

Barnsley will be without striker Jacob Brown for their first game back in the Championship against Fulham.

Brown picked up an injury during the Tykes' pre-season training camp in Nice and is expected to be ruled out for four more weeks.

Boss Daniel Stendel is set to feature a significant proportion of the 10 new signings he has brought into the club this summer. But he is still without long-term absentee Kenny Dougall, who suffered a broken leg in March.

Fulham new boys Ivan Cavaleiro and Anthony Knockaert should both feature at Oakwell. But the Cottagers will be without Ryan Sessegnon, who continues to be linked with a move away from Craven Cottage, due to a hamstring injury.

Alfie Mawson joins Sessegnon on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury during a pre-season match against West Ham. Stefan Johansen faces a late test on a shin injury while Tim Ream is expected to feature at the back.

Opta stats
Barnsley have lost their last four league matches against Fulham, losing all four games during the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons in the Championship.

Fulham haven't faced Barnsley on the opening day of a league season since 1983-84, losing 0-3 at Oakwell under Malcolm Macdonald.

Barnsley - 4-0 winners over Oxford United on the opening day last season - haven't won on opening day in consecutive seasons in the Football League since doing so in five in a row between 1974-75 and 1978-79.

Fulham have lost just one of their last 13 away league matches in Yorkshire (W7 D5 L1), though that defeat was their most recent visit in a 0-1 reverse at Huddersfield Town last season.

Barnsley are yet to lose a home match in any competition in 27 games under Daniel Stendel (W17 D10 L0) and were the only team in the top four English divisions to remain unbeaten at home in all competitions during 2018-19.

Fulham won the fewest away league points of any side in the top four English divisions in 2018-19, picking up just five points in their 19 games (W1 D2 L16).

Prutton's prediction

While Fulham were mixing it with the big boys in the Premier League last season, Barnsley were battling it out to win promotion back from League One. But now they both find themselves back on the same playing field in the Championship.

Barnsley will have high hopes of making a better fist of it this time around, while Fulham's only remit is to win promotion straight back to the top flight. That being said, I have a feeling the Tykes could nick this.

Prutton predicts: 2-1 (10/1 with Sky Bet)



https://www.skysports.com/football/barnsley-vs-fulham/preview/409349

[WhiteJC]

Report: Tottenham Hotspur may have received a boost in Sessegnon pursuit

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly received a boost in their pursuit of Fulham teenage sensation, Ryan Sessegnon, this summer.

The Mirror reported last month that Tottenham were close to signing Lo Celso and Sessegnon for a combined fee of £80m, although neither deal has gone through as of yet.

The report stated that the fee for Sessegnon alone would be around £20m, with Fulham relegated last season and the 19-year-old in the final year of his contract.

Sessegnon is said to want a move to Tottenham this summer for two reasons, to link up with Pochettino and to remain in London (Guardian).

The Telegraph have previously suggested that Georges-Kevin Nkoudou could be used as part of a swap deal for Sessegnon this window.

It just so happens that the out-of-favour Frenchman was the star of the show against Bayern Munich this week after he skinned one defender and put in a delicious cross for Lamela's opener.



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/report-tottenham-hotspur-may-have-received-a-boost-in-sessegnon-pursuit/

[WhiteJC]

Three Brentford boys, two players each from Leeds and Fulham and the Cardiff City keeper that Liverpool looked at... ahead of tonight's Championship opener - here's our top team from the second tier

    The 2019-20 Championship season gets underway on Friday night in Luton
    A host of players will be pushing to impress in order to make Team of the Year
    Sportsmail has put together a combined XI on the eve of the latest campaign

Pre-season has been and gone and the football season has swung back round.

The 2019-20 Championship season gets underway at Kenilworth Road where the promotion hopes for all sides in action this weekend will be driving them on to success.   

Sportsmail has put together the best XI in the Championship - on paper at least - ahead of Friday's season opener between Luton Town and Middlesbrough.

GOALKEEPER - Neil Etheridge (Cardiff City)

Aston Villa had been determined to land the Philippines star this summer but their move for Tom Heaton - confirmed on Thursday - suggests Etheridge will remain in Cardiff for the season.

He conducted himself impressively during a tough campaign in the Premier League and should he stay fit, Neil Warnock's side will remain in contention in the top six.

Etheridge is agile and possesses a strong passing game, which Warnock will hope can catch out napping defences on the counter-atack. He will look to oust Darren Randolph in the PFA's Championship Team of the Year. 

RIGHT BACK - Jayden Bogle (Derby County)

Derby County were one of the most exciting teams to watch last season with Frank Lampard in his first season as a manager.

He brought together youth and experience and was one game away from reaching the Premier League.

And 19-year-old Bogle, who registered eight assists last season, will have one eye on that Team of the Year spot having come into his own under the former Chelsea captain. 

CENTRE BACK - Daniel Ayala (Middlesbrough)

No team was meaner at the back than Middlesbrough last season and Ayala played a key role in that.

Aden Flint took a lot of the plaudits but he has since departed for Cardiff and Ayala will be expected to step up as an experienced member of the squad.

With Dael Fry very much still an emerging prospect, Ayala will be the fulcrum of the defensive unit that proved so successful last season. 

CENTRE BACK - Pontus Jansson (Brentford)

In last year's PFA Team of the Year and a firm favourite with the fans at Leeds, Brentford fans would be forgiven for thinking just how they have managed to snare one of the best defenders in the division.

Jansson was deemed surplus to requirements by Marcelo Bielsa and departed Elland Road this summer - not that Brentford will mind.

The Swede is a vocal and commanding presence at the back and also has a knack of chipping in with vital goals when the going gets tough. His arrival strengthens Brentford's promotion hopes massively. 

LEFT BACK - Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham)

It will confuse many if the window closes and Fulham have successfully been able to keep hold of the highly-rated Sessegnon.

Tottenham are particularly keen in the England Under-21 star but have yet to agree a deal with the Cottagers, meaning he is likely to start the season in black and white.

Adept as an attacking full-back or used as a winger, Sessegnon was marginalised for a spell following £100m-worth of new signings last summer but he is set to return to a starring role under Scott Parker in the second tier. 

RIGHT MIDFIELD - Said Benrahma (Brentford)

This was a no-brainer given no player produced more assists in 2018-19 in the Championship than Brentford winger Benrahma.

The 23-year-old Algerian managed 14 assists last term to ensure the Griffin Park side were a nuisance to play against.

Neal Maupay and Benrahma will determine the success of the Bees this term but produce a similar season and the Algerian is a shoe-in for Team of the Year come the end of the campaign. 

CENTRE MIDFIELD - Pablo Hernandez (Leeds United)

Easily one of the most decorated and individually talented player in the entire division, Hernandez is set to have another fine campaign at Elland Road this season.

Even at 34, the former Valencia midfielder notched 12 goals and 12 assists last season as Marcelo Bielsa's side narrowly missed out on promotion.

Included in the PFA Championship Team of the Year last season, don't bet against Hernandez making it two years in a row.

CENTRE MIDFIELD - Tom Cairney (Fulham)

Stifled for large chunks of their time back in the Premier League last season, Cairney should be back to his best on their return to the Championship.

The Fulham captain sets the tempo in Scott Parker's midfield and has proven already that he can dominate and dictate games at this level.

While they are not overwhelming title favourites, if Cairney has a strong campaign then Fulham will certainly be in the mix for an immediate return to the top flight.

LEFT MIDFIELD - Jarrod Bowen (Hull City)

A real talent who has caught the eye of Tottenham and Newcastle, Bowen was an essential inclusion in the side after staying at Hull.

He was worthy of his spot in the PFA Championship Team of the Year last season, having stood out with 22 goals and four assists in the league.

Valued at close to £20million, he is the player that any success Hull may have hinges on. If he leaves in the remaining week of the window, the Tigers could have a really tough season ahead. 

STRIKER - Neal Maupay (Brentford)

Perhaps one of the most in-demand players in the Championship, it is imperative that Brentford stand firm and keep hold of Maupay.

With Benrahma topping the assists chart and continually picking out his partner in crime, Maupay could well surpass his 25 goals and eight assists from last season.

The Bees are in contention for the play-offs having added Jansson from Leeds but if Maupay enjoys his best season yet the London club could even go on to crash those two automatic places. 

STRIKER - Kemar Roofe (Leeds United)

While he netted far less than Maupay did, Roofe's influence leading the line for Leeds cannot be underestimated.

Injury in the first-leg of the play-off semi-final against Derby County - in which he scored the only goal in a 1-0 away win - ruled him out of the return at Elland Road where the Rams produced a shock to run out as winners.

He had big moments last season such as the last-second winner away at Aston Villa, and while there will be hopes that he can build on his 15 goals, Leeds fans will pray he can steer clear of injury to give them a real shot at the title. 

BENCH

Darren Randolph (Middlesbrough) - Tony Pulis' side possessed the best defensive record last season and Randolph played a key role in their solidity at the back. Was named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year last season and is a must in this squad.

Sean Morrison (Cardiff City) - Cardiff found life tough back in the Premier League but Morrison will once again find himself dominating strikers on his return to the Championship. Tried and tested at this level.

Ben Pearson (Preston North End) - A tough tackler and always at risk of a suspension but he is attracting admiring glances from the top flight and another big campaign at Deepdale could earn him a move.

Kamil Grosicki (Hull City) - Only Benrahma posted more assists in the Championship last season than the 12 from the Polish international. Vital that Hull kept hold of him this summer.

Britt Assombalonga (Middlesbrough) - A physical presence up top and netted 14 league goals last season as Boro just missed out on the play-offs. Still one of the most reliable scorers at this level.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7309405/The-best-Championship-XI-select-players-league-agree.html

[WhiteJC]

£25m Spurs transfer expected to fall through – report

Fulham expect Ryan Sessegnon to stay this summer rather than join Tottenham, according to the Mirror.

Sessegnon, who has one year left on his contract, has been heavily linked with a move to Spurs this summer. The 19-year-old has reportedly been identified as a long-term replacement for Danny Rose.

Tottenham have apparently come close to agreeing a £25 million deal for Sessegnon, although Scott Parker has suggested he expects the left-back to still be a Fulham player come the end of the transfer window.

Parker may have just been toeing the line when he made those comments, but the Mirror is now claiming the transfer looks set to fall through.

The report claims Spurs are waiting until Rose's sale has gone through before making their move for Sessegnon, but it seems increasingly likely Rose is going to stick around having failed to secure a move away from north London.

Indeed, Rose played against Real Madrid and Bayern Munich in the Audi Cup after initially being left out of Tottenham's pre-season tour of Asia. Perhaps Spurs will keep him and try to sign Sessegnon on a free transfer next summer instead.



http://www.tottenhamblog.com/2019/08/02/25m-spurs-transfer-expected-to-fall-through-report/

[WhiteJC]

Tottenham expected to seal £25m deal as Pochettino closes-in on 3rd summer signing

We're now at the business end of the summer transfer window and managers are working hard trying to strengthen their squads so we'll bring you all the latest news and gossip from around the world. Here, Tottenham expect to sign Ryan Sessegnon...

Tottenham are expected to wrap-up a £25m deal to sign Ryan Sessegnon as Mauricio Pochettino closes-in on his third signing of the summer window, according to the Express.

Spurs have already snapped-up midfielder Tangay Ndombele in a club record deal from Lyon while Jack Clarke has been signed from Leeds United in a deal that will see the youngster spend next season back on loan at Elland Road.

Pochettino is still in the market for further reinforcements ahead of the new season and Sessegnon has been strongly touted as a main Tottenham transfer target throughout the summer.

The Express claim Spurs are expected to secure an agreement to sign Sessegnon worth in the region of £25m before the window closes on August 8 but Tottenham are trying to offload Danny Rose before trying up the deal.

Rose has been linked with a move away from White Hart Lane this summer and was left out of their pre-season tour in order to try and find a new club but so far nothing has been agreed despite reported interest from the likes of PSG, Juventus and Atletico Madrid.

It remains to be seen whether Tottenham will find an agreement to sell Rose but the Express says they are confident of landing Sessegnon and have offered Fulham Josh Onomah or Georges-Kevin Nkoudou as part of any deal.

The news comes after Fulham boss Scott Parker played down the prospect of losing Sessegnon before the window closes with the former midfielder suggesting they haven't been inundated with offers for the youngster.

Parker is quoted as saying by the Express:

    "At this present moment, I expect Ryan still to be here when the window shuts. Obviously I have read the speculation. Will it affect him? That would be up to Ryan.

    "It is not as if the phone has been ringing off the hook, a bid every other day for him and Fulham are turning it down, for him to have the hump.

    "I had this too as a young player. But if there is one good thing about the transfer window it is that come 5 o'clock next week when the door shuts, he can't go anywhere."

Sessegnon will miss Fulham's Championship opener this weekend as he's still working his way back to full fitness from a hamstring injury so despite Parker's comments, it looks like he's already played his last game for the club.

The Express says the 19-year-old has made it clear to Fulham he wants to leave this summer and Tottenham appear confident a deal will get over the line before the window slams shut next week.

Sessegnon made it name as a left-back but he's comfortable playing further forward down the left flank so his versatility would be a valuable asset for Pochettino if he does end up joining Tottenham this summer.



https://football-talk.co.uk/151718/tottenham-expected-to-seal-25m-deal-as-pochettino-closes-in-on-3rd-summer-signing/

[WhiteJC]

Harvey Elliott's decision to join Liverpool questioned – with "less opportunities" to play

Fulham manager Scott Parker has questioned Harvey Elliott's motives for joining Liverpool this summer, insisting he would have "less opportunities" to play.

Elliott completed the switch from Craven Cottage to Anfield towards the end of last month, and featured in both of the Reds' final two pre-season friendlies.

Though he only played 40 minutes combined against Napoli and Lyon, the 16-year-old caught the eye with his fearlessness and willingness to take the ball and make things happen.

And with five youngsters cut from the training squad in Evian after the latter 3-1 victory, it was interesting to see Elliott retained ahead of the Community Shield.

This would suggest he is an immediate option for Jurgen Klopp, but as manager of the club who made the winger the Premier League's youngest-ever debutant in May, Parker has scrutinised the move.

"I had a long chat with Harvey and explained to him the opportunity I felt we could give him this season," he told reporters on Thursday.

"I felt he would be pivotal to what we are doing and part of the squad.

"I gave him an opportunity because he is good enough. I saw a top player who could have helped us this year.

"His agent and his father were told he would be part of the squad. When you are a young boy in football it is about opportunity.

"If you are going to get opportunities to play, that should be paramount.

"At Liverpool he is going to get less opportunities than he would have here. That is not to say it is right or wrong. Time will tell.

"I wish the boy all the best of luck. I have no doubt he will be very successful because he is a fantastic player."

The early indication is that Elliott will be given the opportunities he requires at Liverpool, though a "gutted and disappointed" Parker is right to acknowledge the competition he faces from the likes of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane.

Another season with Fulham in the Championship could have aided his development, but the teenager could also point to Ryan Sessegnon's hit-and-miss campaign with the Cottagers last time out as evidence against this.

Moving to Merseyside is a bold move for Elliott, and Parker is understandably frustrated given his talent and the role Fulham played in his early rise.

But just like the 38-year-old, Klopp clearly has big faith in his new No. 67, and he could soon add to his tally of two Premier League outings so far.



https://www.thisisanfield.com/2019/08/scott-parker-questions-harvey-elliotts-decision-to-join-liverpool-with-less-opportunities-to-play/

[WhiteJC]

"That's why I joined" – Fulham player give reasons on choice of summer exit

Galatasaray summer signing Jean Michael Seri has spoken to Ntv Spor about his move to the Turkish side.

Cim Bom have managed to land the Fulham midfielder on a season long loan deal for €1.5m and Seri has explained why he chose Galatasaray over other interested clubs. "I think the most important thing is to enjoy your football. We also have to give joy to the supporters.

"I want to make them happy because they've showed me a lot of love and respect. I feel great support behind me and that's why I joined Galatasaray."

The midfielder also spoke about the interest from other clubs, and has confirmed he received an offer from Serie A giants Milan: "When a big club like Galatasaray want you and their fans show great support to you, you instantly made the decision. That's what happened. Of course, I had an offer from Milan but when I saw the club's board members and the fans, I made my mind up."

Seri signed for Fulham last summer for a club record transfer fee, but failed to replicate the form he showed with Ligue 1 side Nice. The player struggled to adapt to the English game and it always seemed likely he would move on this summer following the London's club's relegation back to the Championship.

He hadn't wanted that particular move, and then felt he'd been cheated out of part of his transfer fee kickback.

With the departure of Badou Ndiaye and Fernando last month, Seri was brought in by the Turkish champions as they look to defend their league title.

The central midfielder now has the opportunity to kickstart his career with Gala and the incentive of Champions League football must have had an impact on his decision to head to the Super Lig.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/thats-i-joined-fulham-star-give-reasons-summer-transfer/

[WhiteJC]

PREVIEW: Barnsley Vs Fulham

The inside track on the season opener

The 2019/20 Sky Bet Championship season is finally upon us as the Reds welcome the Cottagers to Oakwell for a 3pm kick-off - here's your preview!

Four months ago, Barnsley sealed their immediate return to the second tier, automatically promoted as Sky Bet League One runners up.

In Head Coach, Daniel Stendel's debut season in English football, the German guided the Reds back to the Sky Bet Championship in impressive fashion by implementing a high-pressing, attacking style of football.

The departure of a number of players has been offset by the arrival of no-less than 10 new signings as Stendel continues to mould a side in his image.

A pre-season that was spent - in the main - overseas, with trips to France and Germany that took in three friendly victories has allowed those incoming players crucial time to bond with their new teammates.

With new Chief Executive Officer, Dane Murphy now in situ, there's still one more week of wheeling and dealing possible before the closure of the summer transfer window. But the Reds will be hoping that the bulk of a successful squad is already in position, ahead of this opening fixture of their 76th campaign at level two of the league pyramid.

There are a few players who Stendel will have to do without against Saturday's opponents, Fulham.

Long-term absentee Kenny Dougall is edging towards a return to training, but he's still some weeks away from that. Meanwhile, full-back Jordan Williams has only just returned to training, wide-man and last season's Young Player of the Year, Jacob Brown is around a month away from a return following a hamstring injury, and fellow winger Jordan Green will be unlikely to play until after the Sheffield Wednesday clash.

First Team Coach at Oakwell, Dale Tonge addressed these issues amongst others when he spoke with the gathered press at the club during midweek, and both his and midfielder Cameron McGeehan's pre-match press conference videos are available to watch in full for our iFollow Barnsley subscribers, by clicking the linked content below.

Our visitors this weekend are new to the Championship also, having returned via Premier League relegation.

Now coached by ex-player Scott Parker, Fulham are unsurprisingly considered by many as the favourites to make an immediate return to the top flight this season.

The Craven Cottage-based outfit spent just a season in the Premier League, a campaign of misery that saw two managers leave the club and little to shout about for the Cottagers' supporters.

But the West Londoners have retained the majority of their squad, hoping they'll get the desired reaction following last season's demise.

Some eye-catching arrivals in the shape of Anthony Knockaert and Ivan Cavaleiro offer fans hope that their stay in the second tier will be a brief one.

Parker isn't expecting an easy ride when they pitch up on Grove Street this Saturday, as he told Fulham's official website this past week.

"They (Barnsley) got promoted last year, they're familiar with winning football matches. It's going to be tough, I'm under no illusions and the players will be under no illusions. On Saturday it's going to be a real, real battle. We understand that and hopefully we'll come out on top."

There's a familiar face in the Cottagers' backline. A former promotion winner with the Reds, central defender Alfie Mawson will make his first Oakwell return this weekend. And there's a bit of a reunion of sorts for Barnsley striker Cauley Woodrow who spent seven years at the Cottage before joining the Reds last summer.

But the friendships will be put to one side when 3pm arrives Saturday, and the 2019/20 campaign kicks off in earnest.

This will be the third time the two clubs have met on the opening day of a new season. With Fulham getting a 1-0 win in 1970, the Reds a 3-0 victory in 1983, it's all set for a decider this time around.

Saturday will be the 81st meeting between the clubs and Barnsley edge the fixture historically. We have 31 wins to the Cottagers' 26.

The last time the sides met was in January of 2018, in a season that saw both clubs exit the division in separate directions. Despite Liam Lindsay hooking home from close-range to give Barnsley a first half lead, a Dimitri Cavaré dismissal turned the tide and Ryan Sessegnon soon levelled up for Fulham. But the Reds held out until injury time before Kevin McDonald fired in from inside the box and Sessegnon added his second and the visitors' third to take all three points.

We have in fact to go back all the way to the year 2000 for our last taste of success against the West Londoners. That was a 1-0 home win in March of that year, thanks to a Neil Shipperley strike in a season in which the Reds did the double over the Cottagers and went on to reach the playoff final under the guidance of Dave Bassett.

For information on ticket availabilty for Saturday's clash, please click here.

Due to broadcast restrictions there will be no live stream for this fixture for our overseas subscribers but we will have full, uninterrupted commentary from Oakwell via the match centre from just before 3pm with our very own Matt Bailey on the mic.

Come on You Reds!



https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2019/august/fulham-preview/

[WhiteJC]

Up next: Barnsley (a)

Fulham's quest for an immediate return to the Premier League begins against newly-promoted Barnsley tomorrow afternoon. Scott Parker will be keen to lay down a marker early in the Championship season, but the Whites will face a tough test against the Tykes, whose promotion from League One last year was built upon some formidable home form.

Barnsley have one of the most impressive young managers in the game with Daniel Stendel, who has quickly imposed an attacking and progressive style of football on his charges. They might have lost four of the back five that secured a return to the Championship last season but their pre-season performances have been more promising than the results suggested, especially when they more than matched Sheffield United last weekend in what became an unflattering 4-1 defeat. Stendel has recruited heavily from overseas, bringing in Danish defender Mads Anderson, Senegalese centre half Bambo Diaby and Austrian goalkeeper Samuel Radlinger amongst others, as he prepares for a return to the Championship.

Barnsley's biggest headache on the eve of their opener comes in the shape of striker Kieffer Moore. The 6ft 5in forward, earmarked as a key man ahead of the campaign, has bullied defences throughout his career – emerging through non-league football – and scored 17 goals in 31 appearances in League One last season. Barnsley have reportedly accepted a £4m offer from Wigan for Moore this afternoon and he will play no part in tomorrow's fixture. That leaves Fulham having to handle their former forward Cauley Woodrow, who enjoyed his own purple patch following his permanent move to Oakwell last year, and will be eager to prove a point after not getting much of a look in under Slavisa Jokanovic. You wouldn't bet against him finding the net.

Woodrow will fancy continuing his fine goalscoring form – he notched 19 in 35 appearances for Barnsley last season – against a Fulham defence that hasn't been strengthened over the summer. Doubts remain about how miserly a back four that was brutally found out at Premier League level will prove in the Championship, especially as time has ticked on since Tim Ream's outstanding displays two years ago. It appears as though Alfie Mawson has shaken off a knee injury that worried us all when he limped off against West Ham last weekend, although the identity of who will partner the former Swansea defender at the heart of the back four remains a subject for debate. Ream has only just returned to training following international duty, so Maxime Le Marchand could come in but the Frenchman will need to reduce the number of errors that undermined his first season in Fulham colours.

It looks as if Parker will try to revert to the style that Jokanovic's side employed during their rise from the Championship. A possession-based, assertive brand of football will suit the likes of Stefan Johansen, back from a successful loan spell with West Brom, and Tom Cairney, who will prove critical as the creative hub in Fulham's midfield. There may be doubts over the mobility of Kevin McDonald, who looked a little sluggish in a deeper midfield role in pre-season, but Fulham's recruitment of two top-class wingers in Anthony Knockaert and Ivan Cavaleiro, who have proved devastating in this division in recent seasons, should provide excellent service to Aleksandar Mitrovic, who has to be the league's most potent striker.

Getting off to a good start in a league that is as gruelling as the Championship is crucial. Both Parker and captain Cairney have already warned their side that Barnsley will likely fly out of the gate in a bid to surprise Fulham and the Londoners could well have a target on their backs in the early weeks of the season. The manager's relative inexperience might be a concern, especially as we have yet to see whether he has the tactical flexibility to outwit opponents on a consistent basis, but the mood in the camp seems positive and a rare away win would get the Whites off to a great start.

MY FULHAM XI (4-3-3): Bettinelli; S. Sessegnon, Bryan, Mawson, Le Marchand; McDonald, Johansen, Cairney; Cavaleiro, Knockaert, Mitrovic. Subs: Rodak, Christie, Odoi, O'Riley, Kebano, Kamara, Fonte.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/08/up-next-barnsley-a/

[WhiteJC]

FFCtv – 2019/20 Season

The Club is delighted to announce the relaunch and re-brand of our video-on-demand service, FFCtv.

Matchday Live

Live matchday video coverage of Fulham's fixtures will return for the 2019/20 season, with the Club once again producing its own digital matchday experience which will include enhanced camera-coverage and Gentleman Jim's audio commentary at EFL Championship fixtures, providing overseas fans the opportunity to follow the Whites live.

Owing to broadcast restrictions, live video for weekend fixtures remains unavailable to Fulham fans in the United Kingdom and Ireland. However, new for 2019/20, supporters in these regions will be able to purchase a pay-per-view package to live video stream home and away midweek encounters over the course of the season, dictated on a match-by-match basis, as well as continue to be able to listen to the Club's live audio commentary for all 46 Sky Bet Championship matches and cup competitions.

In line with broadcast regulations, the Club's live match streams will only be made available to international supporters at fixtures which have not been selected for live televised broadcast, be it domestic or overseas live coverage. The Club aims to provide supporters with live video coverage of every fixture outside of those selected for broadcast*. At the time of publishing this information, the first available match which overseas fans can view will be our home fixture against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday 10th August (3pm BST), with Fulham's opening day encounter against Barnsley selected by international broadcasters.

For supporters in the UK and Ireland, midweek pay-per-view streams will be made available on a match-by-match basis, with fixtures subject to change and unavailable when selected for live broadcast in the UK. This does not apply to fixtures shown on Sky Sports' Red Button service, with FFCtv able to provide its own service to fans.
Follow the action on your mobile

A new addition to FFCtv ahead of the 2019/20 season is the launch of a new mobile app.

The app, available to download for free on both iOS and Android, will initially be focused on delivering a comprehensive matchday experience to supporters – for the first time providing the ability to live video stream on a mobile/ tablet device, as well as continue to deliver live audio commentary as well as on-demand video content to FFCtv subscribers and a live match centre to follow all the action.

The Club's aim is to deliver this new app to supporters ahead of our first home game of the season. More information will be made available on fulhamfc.com.
Improved Service & Customer Support

Finally, as part of an enhanced service, a newly developed dedicated FFCtv website has launched, tv.fulhamfc.com, providing subscribers with a central hub to enjoy live audio and video content, an easier subscription purchasing process and the ability to manage their FFCtv account.

The Club have teamed up with a new payments service provider for 2019/20, which will see supporters served with improved matchday and non-matchday customer support.

A result of this change has required a migration of all existing subscribers to this new platform. Fans can be reassured that this migration was handled securely by our payment provider and authenticator, with no confidential details compromised. Fans should not notice any other changes to the previous login procedure, however for security purposes, when logging into their FFCtv account from any device for the first time, supporters will be required to set a new password.

Supporters who previously had an account on fulhamfctv but their subscription had expired will be required to register to the service again.
Subscribe to FFCtv

2019/20 FFCtv subscription options continue to include a monthly and seasonal package available to all supporters, while international supporters will be able to take advantage of an all-inclusive seasonal pass, providing live video and audio at all fixtures permitted – offering substantial savings against purchasing fixtures on a match-by-match basis.

UK & Ireland supporters with a monthly or seasonal pass will also benefit from a reduced pay-per-view streaming fee at applicable fixtures.

Existing FFCtv subscribers will continue to receive their current package. Fans have the ability to update their package through the My Account section on tv.fulhamfc.com.

All FFCtv subscribers – domestically or internationally – will benefit from priority access to watch highlights of every EFL game, available three hours after full-time.

Subscriptions are now available to purchase for 2019/20, with fans advised that all new pricing is effect from Friday 2nd August. Packages for the 2019/20 season are as follows:

    FFCtv Monthly Pass (includes live audio): £5
    FFCtv 2019/20 Season Pass (includes live audio): £45
    FFCtv 2019/20 International Season Pass (includes live video and audio): £120

Fans can subscribe online at tv.fulhamfc.com today. For more information, visit our FAQs page here.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/02/ffctv-launched

[WhiteJC]

Sky Sports pundit predicts disappointment for Fulham on Championship return

Fulham will begin life back in the Championship against Barnsley at Oakwell on Saturday afternoon and will be hoping to start the new season with three points.

The Whites will be hoping to challenge for automatic promotion this season following their relegation from the Premier League last term, but Sky Sports pundit David Prutton has predicted a 2-1 win for Barnsley on the opening day at Oakwell.

"While Fulham were mixing it with the big boys in the Premier League last season, Barnsley were battling it out to win promotion back from League One," Prutton told Sky Sports.

"But now they both find themselves back on the same playing field in the Championship.

"Barnsley will have high hopes of making a better fist of it this time around, while Fulham's only remit is to win promotion straight back to the top flight.

"That being said, I have a feeling the Tykes could nick this."

Fulham manager Scott Parker has boosted his attacking options by signing Ivan Cavaleiro from Wolves and Anthony Knockaert from Brighton.

Meanwhile, Barnsley have had a very busy summer in the transfer market. Head coach Daniel Stendel has significantly strengthened his squad by bringing in ten new players, but has also seen some of his key performers from last season depart Oakwell.

The Tykes were promoted to the Championship last season, finishing second behind Luton in League One and will be determined to establish themselves in the second tier again following their relegation in 2017/18.

The Verdict

Barnsley had the best defensive record in League One last season and were magnificent at Oakwell. With that said, they've lost their goalkeeper and both their centre-backs from last season.

I'm expecting it to be a close game tomorrow, but I think Fulham might just nick it due to the firepower they have up front.

By bringing in Cavaleiro and Knockaert, Fulham have got arguably the biggest attacking threat in the Championship and I'm fully expecting them to challenge for promotion this season.

I'm expecting the two wingers to cause Barnsley's new-look defence all sorts of problems tomorrow and I wouldn't be surprised to see Aleksandar Mitrovic grab a couple of goals too.

It's going to be a challenging season for Barnsley but I think they've got what it takes to survive in the Championship.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/sky-sports-pundit-predicts-disappointment-for-fulham-on-championship-return/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli ready to get career back on track after frustrating year


Bouncing back: Marcus Bettinelli has been reinstalled as Fulham's first-choice goalkeeper ( Getty Images )

It has not been an easy year for Fulham's Marcus Bettinelli.

A season that promised so much turned into a painful one as the club were relegated and the goalkeeper underwent knee surgery.

"Football can be a cruel game," said Bettinelli after being restored as the club's No1 by Scott Parker.

"I do not think anyone enjoyed last season and it is sad, really, because we came into the league with a lot of hope and momentum. I never want to experience that again."

Fulham signed two new goalkeepers - Sergio Rico and Fabri - on the eve of last season and Bettinelli was left out of the squad for their opening-day clash with Crystal Palace.

But he kept his head down, got back in the team and even earned a first England call-up last September. A month later he was rewarded with a new Fulham contract but soon after he was dropped for Sergio Rico.

Then in February he had knee surgery that meant he missed the rest of the campaign as Fulham were relegated.

"It was obviously tough to take when the club signed two goalkeepers last summer," says Bettinelli. "It was hard because I feel like I had done enough to keep my spot and I am sure there were a lot of lads who felt the same as I did after doing well in the Championship.

"I got into the team and when I look back now would I have done anything differently? Probably not. I do not feel like I deserved to get pulled out of the team.

"I got some criticism for the amount of goals we conceded but as the season went on it was plain and clear that you could have had David De Gea and Manuel Neuer, or both of them at the same time, and we still would have conceded goals.

"I went and saw [former manager] Slav[isa Jokanovic]. He was a good person. He said he did not think I had been playing that badly but he wanted to try and get a reaction from the team after three or four defeats. Did I feel it was unfair at the time? Yeah, of course I did.

"Did I feel it was unfair I did not get a chance under Claudio Ranieri? Yeah, of course I did.

"But everything happens for a reason and it is in the past now. I am just looking forward to this season and trying to get back to the Premier League where we should be."

Fit again after knee surgery and back as Fulham's No1, he is now ready to get his career back on track after a difficult 12 months.

Bettinelli will be first-choice again this season under Parker. Fulham have allowed Sergio Rico to return to Sevilla after his loan spell last season and Fabri is expected to leave before the transfer window closes.

"I have been crying out for a season like this since 2014-15," said Bettinelli, who will start at Barnsley tomorrow, with Marek Rodak set to be back-up.

"This will be the first time I have ever started the first game of the season. It is nice to know Scotty believes in me.

"As soon as Scotty took over last season you could feel a change at the club. There is a different feeling of pride now and wanting to win games like the year we went up. For a long time this club has had this sloppy mentality and last season it all kind of fell apart.


Bettinelli was called up to the England squad for the first time in September 2018 (Getty Images)

"It is a different feeling and a different mentality in the dressing room now."

As well as helping Fulham get back to the Premier League, Bettinelli wants an England recall.

"It is something I never thought I would achieve," he says. "Jack Butland played in the Championship last season and he got in the squad, but at the same time I am realistic and I know to get into the squad you have to be playing in the Premier League and playing well.

"There are a lot of good England goalkeepers, Tom Heaton and Nick Pope are back from injury, Joe Hart, Dean Henderson has gone to Sheffield United, Angus Gunn at Southampton. It was nice to be involved last season but I want to be involved again and stay there.

"It is not about just getting called up, I want to go and play for England and get a cap."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham/fulham-goalkeeper-marcus-bettinelli-ready-to-get-career-back-on-track-after-frustrating-year-a4204496.html

[WhiteJC]

Access Information | Fulham

Turnstile, ticketing and car park information

The Reds welcome Fulham FC to Oakwell on Saturday 3rd August 2019, kick off 3pm for the first fixture of the 2019/20 Sky Bet Championship campaign.

Supporters are politely reminded of the following information:

Juvenile Under 19 and Juvenile Under 12 tickets are not available to purchase on the turnstiles, they are available to purchase from the box office or online only.

Home supporters can collect pre-ordered tickets and seasonal memberships from Oakwell's Box Office situated in the South Stand. Please allow yourself plenty of time if collecting pre-ordered tickets as we have a high number of collections. You are strongly advised to collect your tickets before 1.30pm in order to avoid queuing. We will have a collection point directly outside the box office from 1:30pm onwards.


Visiting supporters can collect pre-ordered tickets and duplicates from Oakwell's Main Reception situated in the South Stand.


Away fans attending by car and using SatNav, please use post code S71 1AN to park in the Queens Ground Car Park (£5 per car, £20 per coach). 


We have limited car parking for approximately 150 cars available at £5 per car for home fans in the main C.K. Beckett South Stand car park, S71 1EL.

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT ALL VEHICLES MUST REMAIN STATIONARY FOR AT LEAST 10 MINUTES AFTER THE FINAL WHISTLE. THE EAST STAND BARRIER AND THE EXIT GATE SITUATED AT THE TOP OF THE DRIVE (RIGHT TURN ONLY) WILL NOT OPEN UNTIL ALL VISITOR'S COACHES HAVE VACATED THE AWAY CAR PARK. WE ARE EXPECTING 4 COACHES SO THIS WILL BE APPROXIMATELY 20 MINUTES.

The following turnstiles are open for this fixture:

C.K. Beckett (South) Stand HOME SUPPORTERS ONLY

Turnstiles 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12 & 13 – pre-bought tickets
Turnstile 10 – Cash Only Adult £30 Over 65 £22 Young Adult 19-21 £22. U19 and U12 tickets are not available on turnstiles.

Hayselden (West) Lower Stand HOME SUPPORTERS ONLY

Turnstiles 24, 25 & 27– pre-bought tickets
Turnstiles 28– Cash Only Adult £30 Over 65 £22 Young Adult 19-21 £22. U19 and U12 tickets are not available on turnstiles.

Hayselden (West) Upper Stand HOME SUPPORTERS ONLY

Turnstiles 29– pre-bought tickets
Cash tickets for the West Upper can be purchased from turnstile 28 as above.

The Investment Room (East) Lower Tier HOME SUPPORTERS ONLY

Turnstiles 67, 68, 69, 72, 73 & 74 – pre-bought tickets
Turnstile 71 – Cash Only Adult £30 Over 65 £22 Young Adult 19-21 £22. U19 and U12 tickets are not available on turnstiles.

The Investment Room (East) Upper Tier HOME SUPPORTERS ONLY

Turnstiles 75, 76, 77, 78, 82, 83 & 84– pre-bought tickets
There are no pay on the day tickets available in the East Stand Upper.

Palmer Construction (North) - Visitors' Stand

Turnstiles 46 - 49 – pre-bought tickets
Turnstiles 44 - Cash Only Adult £30 Over 65 £22 Young Adult 19-21 £22. U19 and U12 tickets are not available on turnstiles.

There is a late gate open until half time on each stand as follows:

C.K. Beckett South Stand – Turnstile 10
Hayselden West Stand (upper and lower) - Turnstile 28
The Investment Room East Stand (upper and lower) - Turnstile 75
Palmer Construction North Stand (Away fans) - Turnstile 44

Notice to all supporters attending Oakwell:

We expect supporters to be loud and get behind their team but we do not expect behaviour that compromises our reputation as a club. Encroaching onto the playing surface is against ground regulations and individuals caught doing so will be ejected and possibly face prosecution as well as a potential banning order.

Anyone found to be in possession of/using pyrotechnics will be ejected and may face prosecution as well as a banning order.

Barnsley Football Club will not tolerate foul, racist, homophobic or abusive language. Anyone found to be using such language will be ejected, may face prosecution and a banning order.

The EFL has power to sanction clubs - using a number of measures - where their fans are found to have acted innapropriately.

We thank you for your continued support.

Steve Bailey - Safety Officer



https://www.barnsleyfc.co.uk/news/2019/august/access-fulham/