Sunday Fulham Stuff - 04/08/19...

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Results

Friday
Luton	3-3	Middlesborough

Saturday
Barnsley	1-0	Fulham
Blackburn	1-2	Charlton
Brentford	0-1	Birmingham
Millwall	1-0	Preston NE
Reading	1-3	Sheff Wed
Stoke	1-2	QPR
Swansea	2-1	Hull
Wigan	3-2	Cardiff
Nottm Forest	1-2	West Brom

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Barnsley 1-0 Fulham

Barnsley finished second in League One last season

Fulham boss Scott Parker said he was "bitterly disappointed" as the promotion favourites fell to defeat at promoted Barnsley on the opening Saturday of the Championship season.

Debutant Luke Thomas scored the winner in the first half when he latched on to Mike Bahre's pass and showed good feet before scoring with a powerful shot.

Tykes defender Mads Andersen twice cleared off the line and sub Anthony Knockaert forced a good save from goalkeeper Samuel Radlinger as the visitors pushed for a leveller, but the hosts held out.

The Whites were relegated from the Premier League last season after a lacklustre campaign during which they sacked two managers and conceded 81 goals in the league.

"We knew it was going to be a tough battle in the first game of the season, which it proved to be," Parker, who was appointed on a permanent basis in the summer, said.

"We started ok in the first 10 minutes of the first half, but Barnsley got a grip of the game and caused us a few problems.

"In the second half we got into the game and we had chances which they defended heroically at times, but overall it's very disappointing."

Barnsley deserved win, says Stendel
Daniel Stendel gave debuts to six summer signings on Barnsley's return to the second tier after a season in League One.

Despite the high number of changes to last season's promotion-winning team, the hosts did not look disjointed and took a deserved lead through Thomas in the 13th minute.

Parker's side conceded 81 times in the league last season and were again poor defensively - with only wasteful finishing by Bahre preventing the Tykes adding to their lead before half-time.

Fulham improved after the break, with Tom Cairney and Floyd Ayite seeing Andersen clear efforts off the line, but struggled to get forwards Ivan Cavaleiro, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Aboubakar Kamara into the game.

German Stendel lead Barnsley to promotion from League One last season in his first campaign with the club and felt his side deserved victory.

"I'm very happy about the result but more about the performance today," he said. "We knew that Fulham have a good squad but if we played with more conviction we had a chance to win this game.

"Most of the time we played really well, Fulham had some chances in the second half, but we deserved to win."

The Tykes visit South Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday next Saturday, while Parker's side host Blackburn the same day.



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

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Head Coach Reaction

Scott Parker lamented his side's lack of intensity, as Fulham fell to a 1-0 defeat to Barnsley at Oakwell.   

A 13th-minute close range effort from Luke Thomas was the difference at Oakwell, sealing all three points for The Reds.

"Overall, I'm bitterly disappointed," explained Parker.

"It was the first game of the season, so we knew it'd be a tough battle, which it proved.

"We started okay, but then they got a grip of the game and caused us one or two problems.

"We anticipated how fast they'd be out the blocks, as they're a very strong side at home.

"We got into the game, huffed and puffed, and had some good chances, but their defending was heroic at times.

"We understand the league, a lot of players have been in this division, but you can always lose a game of football.

"In the first half, we were pretty slow to second balls, lacked a real intensity at times and looked a little short.

"I felt we came on strong in the second-half, caused them a few problems and we could've got one back, but it wasn't to be."

A positive for the Whites was the impact made by Anthony Knockaert, who looked sharp when he came on to play his first competitive game in a Fulham shirt.   

"I thought he was superb," said Fulham's Head Coach.   

"Anthony has come in late and is probably not up to scratch in terms of fitness, but certainly in the short spell he was out there, he produced some quality, which we'll be looking forward to seeing more."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/03/parker-text-barnsley

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Opinion: Why Tottenham should stay away from Ryan Sessegnon

Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for Fulham teenager Ryan Sessegnon this summer, with the Mirror expecting the North London side to sign him late last month.

However, a deal has still yet to be reached between the two clubs, despite the fact that Sessegnon himself is said to want the move (Guardian).

The 19-year-old has just one year remaining on his contract, meaning that Fulham will have to either sell up now or risk losing him on a free in the summer of 2020.

Sessegnon caught the eye of many in the Championship in 2017/18 when he scored an impressive 16 goals from the wing. However, in his first Prem season, he only managed two (Wikipedia).

While I believe he could be a great prospect for the future, with teenage starlets it is always hard to tell whether they are going to meet their potential.

£25m (Sun) is a lot of money, even in this market, and I would stay away if I were Spurs. Here's my thinking:

If Spurs want Sessegnon as a left-back, Danny Rose and Ben Davies are currently better and more experienced options. If they want him as a winger, Heung Min Son and Lucas Moura are better options.

I would rather see Tottenham spend the extra £25m towards a position like a playmaker, right-back, or back-up striker and bank of getting Sessegnon on a free.

I am a big fan of his, but if he does really want to come to Spurs, he will happily do so on a free. A year of full first-team football at Fulham could also do him some good.



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/opinion-why-tottenham-should-stay-away-from-ryan-sessegnon/

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Tottenham close to another big-money signing – massive potential

Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon is close to quitting the club, with Tottenham Hotspur expected to seal a deal for the youngster, according to the Daily Mail.

The 19-year-old shone for the Cottagers during their Championship promotion campaign in 2017-18 and was widely touted with a big-money switch last summer, with a host of Europe's top clubs rumoured to be interested.

After staying put, reported Tottenham target Sessegnon endured a tough Premier League season in which Fulham were relegated and he struggled to make the impact many expected of him.

That perceived below-par performance is reflected in a price drop for the teenager; while last summer he was set to command a fee in excess of £50 million, Tottenham are set to land him for just £30 million before the transfer window closes.

Although many felt that the England under-21 international failed to live up to the hype last term, he did contribute to eight top-flight goals, with two strikes of his own and a further six assists.

That represents a decent return for a young player with no previous experience in England's biggest league, playing in a side that struggled from start to finish, picking up just 26 points in total.

Sessegnon is comfortable anywhere on the left flank, although given that it has been widely speculated that Tottenham will move on Danny Rose before the window slams shut, it would appear that he would be being signed to play as a left-back.

Spurs have already landed midfielder Tanguy Ndombele from Lyon, as well as Jack Clarke from Leeds United, although he has been loaned back for the upcoming campaign.

With the club having spent big on a new stadium, it is thought that some players may have to be moved on to free up significant funds, with speculation over the futures of Rose, Toby Alderweireld and Christian Eriksen.

Tottenham play Inter Milan in a friendly on Sunday, before their opening Premier League fixture next Saturday evening, a home clash against newly promoted Aston Villa.



https://ninetyminutesonline.com/tottenham-close-to-another-big-money-signing-massive-potential/

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ANALYSIS: How promoted Barnsley defeated relegated Fulham


Barnsley's Luke Thomas (left) and Fulham's Tom Cairney (right) battle for the ball (Picture: PA)

FORTRESS Oakwell remains intact after the opening day of the Reds' Championship campaign.

Last season's League One runners-up made a dream start when winger and £1.2m signing from Derby County Luke Thomas, one of six debutants, shrugged off Joe Bryan on the touchline, cut inside and shaped to play the ball back before drilling the ball inside Marcus Bettinelli's left-hand post for a 13th-minute opener.

It was the only goal of the game but the three points were no more than the Reds deserved

The others making their bow under head coach Daniel Stendel were goalkeeper Sami Radlinger, central defenders Bambo Diaby and Mads Andersen, right-back Toby Sibbick and winger Mallik Wilks. It had little effect on their high-pressing, free-flowing approach as the newcomers fitted seamlessly into the system.

Stendel had been forced to re-shape his squad following the departures of goalkeeper Adam Davies and central defenders Ethan Pinnock and Liam Lindsay - a key trio as Barnsley went through the League One season unbeaten at home. On this showing, Stendel has found adequate replacements, especially after the way the defenders dealt with the dangerous Aleksandra Mitrovic.

There was also a pre-match blow, though, with news that striker Kieffer Moore, one of five Barnsley players included in the PFA League One team of the year, looks to be on his way to Wigan Athletic.

    It had little effect on their high-pressing, free-flowing approach as the newcomers fitted seamlessly into the system.
    Robert Gledhill

Wales striker Moore – last season's top-scorer with 19 goals – is making his way back from an injury sustained while on international duty but is now poised for a £4m move, which is expected to be completed over the weekend.

Relegated Fulham had just one debutant, winger Ivan Cavaleiro, who was later subbed, and they included former Barnsley central defender Alfie Mawson, who received warm applause as the teams were announced.

Fulham chief Scott Parker replaced Maxime Le Marchand seconds after his 32nd-minute yellow card for a foul on Cameron McGeehan, Cyrus Christie coming on at right-back and Denis Odoi moving inside. Odoi was the only visitor to threaten in the first half, heading over from a free-kick as Sheffield United's head of recruitment, Paul Mitchell, ran the rule over the visitors.

Captain Mike Bahre, operating behind striker Cauley Woodrow, should have made it 2-0 before the break, stabbing the ball wide from six yards after being set up by Wilks. The Reds still received a fine ovation as they trooped off.

Mawson headed wide from a free-kick as Fulham attempted with little luck of playing the Reds at their own inter-passing game after the break. However, it took a sliding clearance from Andersen to deny Tom Cairney as he poked the ball past Radlinger in the 61st minute.

Wilks headed wide before Fulham introduced their trump card, Brighton loanee Anthony Knockaert - he forced the first save from Radlinger in the 73rd minute.

Thomas, who received great applause on his late substitution, went close to a second, latching onto a ball into the area and going wide before seeing his shot saved at the expense of a corner as Barnsley wrested control.

Late Fulham pressure brought the best out of Radlinger as the Reds also threw men in front of everything the visitors could throw at them.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/barnsley-fc/analysis-how-promoted-barnsley-defeated-relegated-fulham-1-9914562

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REPORT: Barnsley 1-0 Fulham

Reds edge Cottagers in season-opener

The Reds' return to the Sky Bet Championship kicked off in impressive fashion, as they beat one of the early favourites Fulham 1-0 at Oakwell on Saturday afternoon.

Head Coach, Daniel Stendel handed competitive debuts to six of his nine new signings, as goalkeeper Sami Radlinger, defenders Bambo Diaby, Mads Anderson and Toby Sibbick started, alongside midfielder Luke Thomas and forward Malik Wilks.

It was a debut to remember for Thomas, who put Barnsley in the lead with just over ten minutes on the clock; a goal which proved to be the decisive moment in the match.

However, it was the visitors looked threatening in the opening exchanges, as Aboubakar Kamara, found space down the right flank. He then pulled the ball square for Aleksandar Mitrovic on the edge of the area, whose side-footed effort was blazed well over the crossbar.

Fulham's new addition, Ivan Cavaleiro then found himself in a good position after a through ball by captain Tom Cairney picked him out on the run inside the area. However, the attacker's curling effort left Radlinger untroubled.

With just over ten minutes played, Wilks gathered possession in the centre of midfield, before he drove towards the edge of the box and unleashed a venomous shot, which narrowly missed the target and had Marcus Bettinelli scrambling.

Just moments later, the Reds did capitalise on their early pressure, as Thomas slotted the ball underneath Bettinelli from a tight angle. Newly appointed club captain Mike Bähre did well to find him down the right, before the tricky winger did the rest, as he charged into the Fulham penalty area and put the ball into the back of the net to give the Reds an early lead.

Wilks came close again with 25 minutes gone, before Cauley Woodrow fired just over the bar three minutes later.

As the game ticked towards half-time, Fulham almost equalised when Denis Odoi got on the end of a Cavaleiro free-kick, but his header skimmed over the top of the crossbar.

However, it was the Reds who looked the more dangerous of the two sides in attack, and should have doubled their advantage going into the break when Wilks passed to Bähre in the area, but pressure from the behind, denied the attacker the chance to get a clear shot away.

HALF-TIME: BARNSLEY 1-0 FULHAM

As the match restarted for the second half, Alex Mowatt saw his long-range effort fly over the bar, before Wilks' had a shot from a narrow angle which was closed down and saved by the feet of Bettinelli.

Former Red Alfie Mawson then came close for Fulham with a header from a wide free-kick on the right, before Stefan Johansen lined up a first time shot from distance, which landed past the post.

Fantastic defending from Andersen on the hour mark denied Fulham the chance to level the score, as the big Danish centre back covered well to clear the ball off the line, after Cairney slotted past Radlinger.

Then, Barnsley almost scored a second when Diaby rose highest from a corner, but he saw his header drop wide of the target.

Thomas nearly doubled his tally for the afternoon in the 68th minute when he latched onto a brilliant forward pass by Bähre, but as he rounded Bettinelli, he fired his shot into the side netting.

Woodrow, against his former club, almost pulled off a spectacular finish, as he connected with into an overhead kick inside the area, but unfortunately for him, it landed straight into the hands Bettinelli.

Radlinger had to be alert to pull off a good save from substitute Anthony Knockaert, before Andersen again threw his body on the line to block an Ayite shot.

Goalscorer Thomas was substituted to a standing ovation and rightly so from the Oakwell crowd, as he was replaced by another debutant in Conor Chaplin in the 85th minute.

There were also late appearances for George Miller and Mama Thiam, giving the fans the opportunity to applaud the efforts of former Fulham man, Woodrow and the livewire debutant Mallik Wilks who was booked for taking his time when leaving to a standing ovation.

Kevin McDonald tried his luck for Fulham in a late speculative effort, but Radlinger held on and the Reds held out for an impressive victory at Oakwell.

FULL-TIME: BARNSLEY 1-0 FULHAM

TEAM LINE-UPS:

Reds: Radlinger, Diaby, Andersen, McGeehan, Woodrow (Miller, 90), Bähre (C), Cavaré, Thomas (Chaplin, 85), Sibbick, Mowatt, Wilks (Thiam, 90+3).
Substitutes not used: Collins, Williams, Styles, Halme.

Fulham: Bettinelli, Odoi, Mawson, McDonald, Johansen (Knockaert, 65), Mitrovic, Cairney (C), Cavaleiro (Ayite, 74), Le Marchand (Christie, 32), Bryan, Kamara.
Substitutes not used: Rodak, Kebano, Fonte, De La Torre.



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

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 Barnsley 1-0 Fulham: Luke Thomas hits winner for Tykes
Fulham beaten on their return to the Sky Bet Championship as Barnsley win at Oakwell

Relegated Fulham started life back in the Sky Bet Championship with a 1-0 loss at Barnsley thanks to Luke Thomas' brilliant first-half solo goal.

The loss gives Scott Parker plenty to think about as he looks to mastermind an instant return to the top flight.

Tykes boss Daniel Stendel named six new reinforcements in his starting line-up for Barnsley's first match back in the Championship.

Their line-up also included Cauley Woodrow who was facing his old club, with whom he spent seven years.

Parker took charge of his inaugural Championship game and welcomed Wolves loanee Ivan Cavaleiro into the starting XI. Alfie Mawson was deemed fit and started the match against his former club.

A bright Fulham start saw their talisman Aleksandar Mitrovic go close when his right-footed shot curled just over the bar from the edge of the box after some good work from Aboubakar Kamara.

But it was Barnsley who took the lead thanks to a stunning piece of play by debutant Thomas (13) who collected Mike Bahre's pass and skipped past Joe Bryan before calmly slotting under Marcus Bettinelli.

Bahre nearly doubled the lead shortly after, when space opened up for the Barnsley captain allowing him to fire a shot at goal but Bettinelli got down well to save.

Barnsley were on top and looked dangerous on the break. New signing Mallk Wilks powered his way into the Fulham penalty box before laying it off to Bahre whose toe poke trickled wide.

The second half started just as the first ended; Barnsley were on top and nearly stretched their lead when Wilks once again bullied his way into the penalty box but his effort was matched by Bettinelli.

Fulham were starting to get themselves back in the game and nearly equalised through Mawson who jumped highest to meet an inswinging free-kick, but his header was inches wide.

The Cottagers went close again shortly after, this time Cavaleiro weaved a pass through to Tom Cairney who clipped his shot past Sami Radlinger. It was heading towards goal before Mads Andersen's intervention.

Thomas nearly grabbed his second when he raced through the Fulham defence, coolly rounded Bettinelli but saw his shot turned away for a corner.

Summer signing Anthony Knockaert entered the game for Fulham and he was quickly into action, forcing Radlinger to tip his left-footed shot over the bar.

Another away substitute, Floyd Ayite, nearly equalised when Knockaert's cross was palmed away by Radlinger only to find Ayite whose shot was blocked by a sea of Barnsley defenders.

Fulham's search for an equaliser was unsuccessful as newly-promoted Barnsley held onto all three points at Oakwell.

The managers

Daniel Stendel: "I'm very happy about the result but more about the performance today. We knew that Fulham have a good squad but if we played with more conviction we had a chance to win this game.

"Most of the time we played really well, Fulham had some chances in the second half, but we deserved to win the game."

Scott Parker: "I'm bitterly disappointed. We knew it was going to be a tough battle in the first game of the season, which it proved to be.

"We started okay in the first 10 minutes of the first half, but Barnsley got a grip of the game and caused us a few problems. We anticipated how fast it would be out of the blocks - they're obviously a very strong side here at home. In the second half we got into the game and we had chances which they defended heroically at times but overall it's very disappointing."



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

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Barnsley 1-0 Fulham: Luke Thomas scores debut winner as Tykes stun Championship promotion favourites

    Barnsley's new signing scored after 13 minutes to seal a deserved victory
    The Tykes outclassed Scott Parker's men with a superb attacking display
    Barnsley haven't been beaten at home since Daniel Stendel took charge

Barnsley turned the Championship upside down on the opening day as highly fancied Fulham were floored at Oakwell.

It wasn't just the result that startled, it was the manner of it. Promotion favourites Fulham were dominated throughout by supposed relegation fodder Barnsley, whose young side refused to be daunted by all the big names in the opposition ranks.

It was one of half-a-dozen debutants in Luke Thomas who won the game for Daniel Stendel's team but it could have been any of them. On the ball, off the ball, attacking or defending, Barnsley's performance was a revelation.

Fans began the day mourning the likely departure of another important player with Kieffer Moore set to seal a £4m move to Wigan. They ended it with new heroes, not least new central defensive pair Bambo Diaby and Mads Andersen.

By contrast Fulham were ragged in possession and wasteful up front, having been harried out of their stride from early in the game.

Promotion favourites in one corner, relegation favourites in the other. In the world of the Championship, the fixture computer threw together polar opposites on the opening weekend.

Here we had big budget Fulham just down from the Premier League and bargain basement Barnsley, up again from League One.

In fact, Oakwell boasted the bigger success story. It's remarkable that a club of this size is competing in the Championship for the 12th time in 14 years, a testament to good housekeeping and management on and off the field.

Typically, Barnsley received far more than they paid out in summer trading - but that would not necessarily weaken them for the challenge under bright German boss Stendel.

Fulham expect to be formidable largely on the basis of players they kept, particularly the prolific Aleksandar Mitrovic.

But Barnsley bossed the first half, breezed through it in fact. After Mitrovic and Ivan Cavaleiro, making his debut, wasted early Fulham chances, Parker's side were ripped apart.

Barnsley poured forward with pace and purpose, deservedly leading at the break; their only regret that they couldn't make more of their dominance.


Scott Parker was visibly disappointed as Fulham's campaign got off to a disastrous start


Denis Odoi (left) and Aleksandar Mitrovic cut dejected figures at the full-time whistle


A Fulham fan looks on in disbelief after the Cottagers were stunned at Oakwell

The goal came from one of six players making starting debuts for Stendel's side.

Thomas wriggled into a dangerous position down the right, and with Cauley Woodrow waiting for a cross, the former Derby midfielder pulled the trigger from a tight angle to beat Marcus Bettinelli at his near post.

Other chances came and went with the dangerous Mallik Wilks constantly putting Fulham on the back foot. Denis Odoi was close with a header from a Cavaleiro free-kick in a rare Fulham response.

Parker had made an early substitution with Maxime Le Marchand withdrawn after being cautioned for a poor challenge. Cyrus Christie replaces the centre back.

The second half was more even with chances wasted at both ends. The introduction of Anthony Knockaert for his debut perked up Fulham as Sami Radlinger, the Barnsley keeper, was called on for the first time.

But the home team more than deserved to see out this surprise and stirring victory. And astonishingly they have yet to lose at home under Stendel - in 28 matches in all competitions.

Parker admitted: 'Overall it was very disappointing. I don't think a rude awakening because I think we understood this League.

'But the first half was pretty slow and we lacked intensity at times.' After Thomas's angled first half winner, a 'very proud' Stendel admitted even he was 'a bit surprised' that such a changed side 'can play so good' against what he called 'the biggest team in the league.'

The German added: 'We played with conviction.' ] ] On this evidence, Barnsley will ride the loss of striker Kieffer Moore, poised to join Wigan for £4m.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7317603/Barnsley-1-0-Fulham-Scott-Parkers-game-head-coach-ends-defeat.html

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 Ryan Sessegnon told to snub Tottenham after failing to seal Liverpool move - EXCLUSIVE

FULHAM star Ryan Sessegnon should snub Tottenham and stay at Fulham.

That's according to former QPR boss Ian Holloway who reckons the 19-year-old is better off playing games in the Championship.

Sessegnon racked up 35 Premier League appearances for the Whites last season.

But he struggled to make an impact as his side were sent crashing back into the second tier.

Spurs have been tipped to launch a raid as Mauricio Pochettino looks to bolster his ranks further.

Holloway, however, wants the England U21 star to resist the lure of the Argentine chief.

"The boy is exceptional, he really is," Holloway told Starsport.

"I want to see him play, I want to see him learn - I want him to stay where he is and learn from his new manager in Scott Parker.

"What Scott can't teach him isn't worth knowing. Tottenham will come calling again. Why does he need to move now?

"Will he get in Tottenham's team straight away? Probably not. He should stay where he is and earn his stripes.

"There's some similarities with Gareth Bale - and he was bought very early wasn't he.

"He was sold from Southampton [to Tottenham] and it's all about carrying that weight of expectation."

Liverpool were linked with Sessegnon last summer.

But with Fulham in the Premier League, the club were under no pressure to sell.

Holloway says in hindsight a move to Anfield would have been a better option given Fulham's woeful campaign.

He added "If Sessegnon was sold to Liverpool last year, he wouldn't have played all the games - but he would have been in a good enough team to have shone.

"Fulham made too many changes and weren't ready for that step up. They also couldn't dominate the ball in the Premier League.

"Also, he was swapped from a defensive position to an attacking position which is not easy to do in the top flight.

"But it's all about timing and it's all about learning.

"Sessegnon should still be in a nappy, but unfortunately we build these lads up and then they end up being courted and taken."



https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/795937/Tottenham-transfer-news-gossip-Ryan-Sessegnon-Fulham-Liverpool?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+daily-star-football+%28Daily+Star+%3A%3A+Football+Feed%29

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Cottage Talk Full Time: Fulham Lose To Barnsley In Season Opener

Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

This episode is our initial reactions to the shocking performance by Fulham in their 1-0 loss to Barnsley at Oakwell. Joining us on this show was former Fulham player Rob Wilson, who was at the match. You will hear our thoughts on not just how badly Fulham played, but also we gave credit to Barnsley who deserved to win this match.


You can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2019/8/3/20753018/cottage-talk-full-time-fulham-lose-to-barnsley-in-season-opener

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Christie accuses supporters of hitting and racially abusing his sister during Fulham's shock defeat

Fulham were beaten in their first Championship match following relegation from the Premier League

An investigation has been launched into Cyrus Christie's claims that a Fulham supporter and his wife hit and racially abused his sister.

An incident is alleged to have taken place in the away end during Fulham's 1-0 defeat at Barnsley, their first match of the season in the Championship following relegation from the Premier League last year.

The Fulham defender, who came on in the 33rd minute of the match at Oakwell, claimed on Twitter that a supporter and his wife abused his sister at the match.

"To the Fulham fan that decided to hit my sister at the game today and his wife who justified his action with racist remarks I hope your proud of yourself and feel like a big man," Christie wrote on Twitter.

"You'll get what's coming to you. Regardless how you felt about the result your actions are shameful."

Fulham promptly revealed they will investigate the incident and promised to take strong action against any guilty party.

"Fulham Football Club is investigating an incident which took place in the away end at the Barnsley v Fulham fixture this afternoon," the club announced in a statement.

"Should the perpetrators be identified, the club will be taking the strongest possible action."

Former Derby midfielder Luke Thomas struck a debut goal for the hosts to stun Scott Parker's side.

Fulham retained the bulk of the squad that could not fend off top-flight relegation last term, but failed to gel on a frustrating afternoon at Oakwell.



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/football-league/fulham-new-cyrus-christie-racism-sister-hit-barnsley-result-elf-a9038276.html

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Cyrus Christie accuses Fulham-supporting couple of hitting and racially abusing his sister as Barnsley make positive start 


Fulham's Cyrus Christie has accused a fan of the club, and the fan's wife, of assaulting and racially abusing his sister Credit: Mark Cosgrove/NEWS IMAGES

    Barnsley 1-0 Fulham

Fulham could dish out lifetime bans after their defender Cyrus Christie accused a fan of the club, and the fan's wife, of assaulting and racially abusing the player's sister.

Police will be involved and the club are currently investigating the incident, which took place in the away end at Oakwell, where Fulham suffered a shock defeat against Barnsley.

With the incident having happened in a public area, witnesses will be searched for to identify the accused - and Barnsley are understood to be ready to lend their support and work closely with Fulham.

A Fulham club statement has confirmed that the "strongest possible action" is planned.

Ireland defender Christie, who came on in the 33rd minute of the game, made the matter public when he wrote a post on Twitter at 6.41pm, less than two hours after full-time.

Christie, who has spoken out about racism in the past, said: "To the Fulham fan that decided to hit my sister at the game today and his wife who justified his action with racist remarks I hope your proud of yourself and feel like a big man.

"You'll get what's coming to you. Regardless how you felt about the result your actions are shameful."

Meanwhile Scott Parker was left with a "bitter" taste in his mouth after a shock opening day defeat for his Fulham side, which included controversial figure Aboubakar Kamara.

Kamara was back in the team after his arrest and temporary ban from the club, but did not make an impact against an impressively determined Barnsley team, who could have won more comfortably.

Life could become even harder for Parker too, as he looks to guide Fulham back into the Premier League at the first attempt after last season's relegation, should Ryan Sessegnon leave for Tottenham. The 19-year-old was not in the squad here.

Fulham have recently lost another teenage prodigy, Harvey Elliott, to Liverpool, which disappointed Parker, so the exit of Sessegnon wold be another blow.

Discussing Sessegnon, Parker said: "He is still coming back from a hamstring injury picked up in pre-season, he is still rehabbing and doing a bit of running now, that's why he's not featured."

This sobering defeat against a club just promoted from League One was a jolt for Parker, in his first game as a full-time manager, having been in caretaker charge at the end of last season after Claudio Ranieri's dismissal. Parker admitted: "I am bitterly disappointed."

Barnsley, automatically promoted last season, have lost key men but their new-look team rose to the occasion here. Captain Mike Bahre and Mallik Wilks causing all sorts of problems, while Mads Andersen was inspirational at the back.

Fulham had made a positive start but Barnsley stunned them with their goal. Luke Thomas scored it from a low strike after cutting into the penalty area from the right, following Bahre's pass.

The Oakwell crowd was then raucous and their players responded. Barnsley should have gone 2-0 up just before half-time when Bahre struck wide from close range.

There were chances at either end in the second period with Thomas having a shot cleared off the line by Fulham defender Joe Bryan.

Barnsley were indebted to Andersen, who twice cleared shots off the line, first from Tom Cairney then Floyd Ayite.

Barnsley manager Daniel Stendel is still yet to lose a home match during 28 games charge of the club.

Stendel said: "We knew we were facing the best team in the division but I felt we could win if we played with the right level of conviction.

"We ran more and worked harder. I am so proud."



https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2019/08/03/barnsley-rise-occasion-leave-scott-parker-fulham-bitter-taste/

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Fulham investigating claims Cyrus Christie's sister was assaulted and racially abused by club's own fan

Fulham say they will take the "strongest possible action" against a supporter if the allegations made by Christie can be prove

Fulham have launched an investigation after defender Cyrus Christie accused a fan of his own team of assaulting and racially abusing his sister during their opening Championship fixture.

The Cottagers experienced a nightmare return to the second tier as they were beaten 1-0 away at Barnsley with Christie coming on as a first half substitute for Maxime Le Marchand.

Members of his family travelled to Oakwell to watch the game but Christie alleges that they were the victims of racist remarks and violence from the club's own fans during the game.

The Republic of Ireland full-back took to Twitter to make the allegations and warned the perpetrator they will "get what's coming to them" as fans responded with messages of support.

Fulham have issued a response saying they have launched an investigation into the alleged incident.

Christie wrote: "To the Fulham fan that decided to hit my sister at the game today and his wife who justified his action with racist remarks I hope your proud of yourself and feel like a big man.

"You'll get what's coming to you. Regardless how you felt about the result your actions are shameful."

A statement from Fulham on Twitter read: "Fulham Football Club is investigating an incident which took place in the away end at the Barnsley v Fulham fixture this afternoon.

"Should the perpetrators be identified, the Club will be taking the strongest possible action."

Christie joined Fulham from Middlesbrough for an undisclosed fee in January 2018, helping the club reach the Premier League after a dramatic promotion push.

But he was unable to help them stay in the Premier League during last year's disappointing campaign, during which he featured in 23 top flight fixtures.

He was recently involved in a documentary regarding racism and discrimination in sport with sportswear giants Nike.

He tweeted on Friday before the incident: "Great to be involved with @nike for their documentary on racism and discrimination in sport. @nike always pushing the boundaries compared to other brands to make a change."

He previously spoke out about racial abuse following the Republic of Ireland's World Cup play-off elimination last year.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/fulham-investigating-claims-cyrus-christies-18824510

[WhiteJC]

The reason Ryan Sessegnon missed Fulham's defeat at Barnsley amid Tottenham transfer rumours

The teenager has been linked with a summer transfer to Spurs

The future of Fulham wonderkid Ryan Sessegnon will be resolved by next Thursday.

Football.london  understands Tottenham Hotspur are looking to tie up a deal for the teenager before deadline day.

Whilst there is interest from Manchester United, Liverpool and PSG in Sessegnon, the Lilywhites have the advantage due to the player being keen on working under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino.

Sessegnon has just a year left on his first professional contract at Craven Cottage, therefore the £50m valuation from last summer is likely to have dropped significantly.

Furthermore, he's unlikely to sign an extension so it seems like the perfect time to move on.

According to the Evening Standard , who claim that a move is not dependent on Danny Rose's future in north London, Tottenham are confident that they can get a deal for Sessegnon done before the close of the transfer window.

Developments this afternoon (Saturday) appears to have handed the Lilywhites a massive boost.

The west London outfit were playing their first game back in the Championship following relegation from the Premier League last season as they faced Barnsley at Oakwell.

In the matchday squad named by Scott Parker there was no room for Sessegnon.

This prompted excitement from supporters.

However, Sessegnon not being named in the squad might not be solely down to an imminent transfer to Spurs.

Last week Parker revealed the teenager was still in rehab mode, so that would explain his absence at Oakwell.

"He's rehabbing back to a point where he can feature," Parker said, as per West London Sport. "We'll try everything we can [to keep him].

"We'll see what will happen from there but at this present time, with 10 days [of the transfer window] to go, he's a Fulham player and we fully expect him to rehab back from his injury and play a big part."

Parker also had an update on Sessegnon's future when speaking ahead of the trip to Barnsley.

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



https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/transfer-news/ryan-sessegnon-spurs-transfer-news-16695524

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Club Statement

Fulham Football Club is investigating an incident that occurred in the away end of the Barnsley vs Fulham game on Saturday 3rd August.

Should the perpetrators be identified, we will be taking the strongest possible action.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/august/03/club-statement

[WhiteJC]

Cyrus Christie: Fulham investigate incident after player says sister was hit and racially abused

Cyrus Christie came on as a first-half substitute in Fulham's 1-0 defeat at Barnsley

Fulham will take the "strongest action possible" after full-back Cyrus Christie alleged that his sister was hit and racially abused by fans during Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Barnsley.

Christie said on Twitter after the game: "To the Fulham fan that decided to hit my sister at the game today and his wife who justified his action with racist remarks I hope you're proud of yourself and feel like a big man.

"You'll get what's coming to you. Regardless how you felt about the result your actions are shameful."

The Whites, relegated to the Championship last season, said in a statement: "Fulham Football Club is investigating an incident which took place in the away end at the Barnsley v Fulham fixture this afternoon.

"Should the perpetrators be identified, the club will be taking the strongest possible action."

Republic of Ireland international Christie, 26, joined Fulham from Middlesbrough in January 2018 and has made 33 appearances for the club.

In November 2017 and April 2018 he shared racist abuse he had received on social media.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49222159

[WhiteJC]

Fulham's Cyrus Christie says sister was hit and racially abused by fans

• Defender alleges Fulham fans made 'shameful' remarks to sister
• Fulham will take 'strongest possible action' if culprits identified

Fulham have launched an investigation after their defender Cyrus Christie alleged two supporters hit and racially abused his sister during the club's 1-0 opening-day defeat against Barnsley at Oakwell.

"To the Fulham fan that decided to hit my sister at the game today and his wife who justified his action with racist remarks I hope your proud of yourself and feel like a big man," Christie said on Twitter. "You'll get what's coming to you. Regardless how you felt about the result your actions are shameful."

Fulham say they will take strong action if the culprits can be found. "Fulham Football Club is investigating an incident which took place in the away end at the Barnsley v Fulham fixture this afternoon," said the club in a statement. "Should the perpetrators be identified, the Club will be taking the strongest possible action."

The incident capped a miserable start to life back in the Championship for the London club, who slipped to defeat thanks to Luke Thomas's brilliant first-half solo goal for Barnsley.

"I'm bitterly disappointed," said the Fulham manager, Scott Parker, who was speaking before Christie's allegations came to light. "We knew it was going to be a tough battle in the first game of the season, which it proved to be.

"We understand what league it is that we're in. We have players that have already been in this division and they understand what it's like.

"Every game in this league is going to be a challenge and the rest of the games will be the same."

Barnsley's head coach, Daniel Stendel, handed out praise following his side's win: "I'm very happy about the result but more about the performance today. We knew that Fulham have a good squad but, if we played with more conviction, we had a chance to win this game.

"I'm a little surprised, with it being the first game in the Championship and having so many new faces who are also very young, but we played so good."



https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/aug/03/fulhams-cyrus-christie-says-sister-was-hit-and-racially-abused-by-fans

[WhiteJC]

Battling Barnsley fell Fulham

A defeat at newly promoted Barnsley wasn't how Scott Parker would have scripted Fulham's return to the Championship. The sloppy, one-dimensional and slow nature of the Whites' pedestrian defeat underlined the size of the task ahead of an inexperienced manager as Fulham failed to match the Tykes' effort and intensity in an underwhelming performance.

Daniel Stendel named six new signings in his first line-up of the season but Barnsley looked well-drilled and a much-more cohesive unit than the Cottagers, who struggled to settle into the contest and failed to beat the hosts' high press. Stendel's side were able to play through a below-par Fulham midfield and arguably deserved to be further ahead than Luke Thomas's predatory finish after dominating the first half.

Where the visitors threatened sporadically, Barnsley carved upon Fulham's flimsy defence with alarming frequency. Aleksandar Mitrovic barely had a sniff of goal after sending a speculative drive over after linking well with surprise selection Aboubakar Kamara down the right before Ivan Cavaleiro, a disappointment on his debut, fired wastefully over after being played in by Tom Cairney. Fulham's only other chance fell to Denis Odoi from a free-kick, but his header failed to trouble Sammi Radlinger in the Barnsley goal.

Parker's side never really got to grips with the energy and zest of Barnsley's midfield. A surging run from debutante Malik Wilks typified their ambition – the forward sprinted the best part of sixty yards as the Fulham defence backed off – and drove an effort just wide of Marcus Bettinelli's far post. The Cottagers failed to head that warning. With Maxime Le Marchand lying on his back after falling awkwardly in the centre circle, Joe Bryan looked favourite to clear Mike Bähre's forward ball but he slipped, allowing Thomas to cut in from the right flank. Instead of advancing towards the ball, Alfie Mawson stood off inviting the shot, which squeezed past a static Bettinelli at the near post. It was a shocking goal to concede – but Barnsley were good value for their advantage.

It could easily have been three before the half hour. Cauley Woodrow, who ran himself into the ground against his former employers, shot over from eight yards out and both Wilks and Mike Bähre sent speculative efforts just off target. Only a splendid last ditch tackle from Bryan prevented Bähre from doubling the lead moments before the break.

Initially, the second period followed a similar pattern. Alex Mowatt's rasping drive from range barely cleared the crossbar and Bettinelli saved with his feet after substitute Cyrus Christie had presented possession to Wilks inside the box. Fulham gradually worked up a head of steam. Mawson glanced a header agonisingly wide of goal from a free-kick, Johansen fired fractionally wide from just outside the box and a brilliant piece of defending by Mads Andersen preserved Barnsley's lead after Cairney crept round Radlinger and looked set to level the scores.

Bambo Diaby, who together with Andersen almost totally nullified Mitrovic, rose well to head a corner agonisingly wide and Thomas spurned a glorious chance to add a second when he surged onto a through ball from Bahre and took the ball round Bettinelli but found only the side netting from an acute angle. Woodrow then almost grabbed the goal his lively showing deserved but his acrobatic overhead kick was straight at Bettinelli.

Fulham were only enlivened when Parker send on Knockaert with twenty five minutes to play. The French winger almost had an instant impact when his dipping drive from just outside the area was palmed over the bar by Radlinger. Knockaert then skinned his man and squared for Floyd Ayite, whose goalbound effort was bravely blocked by Andersen. The on-loan Brighton winger then brilliantly fashioned an opening for Kamara, whose tame shot was straight at the goalkeeper from close range.

Barnsley braved a final Fulham flurry in four minutes of added time, but the Reds were fully deserving of the three points and Parker will have plenty to ponder as the Whites look to bounce back against Blackburn at Craven Cottage next weekend.

BARNSLEY (4-2-3-1): Radlinger; Sibbick, Cavaré, Diaby, Andersen; McGeehan, Mowatt; Thomas (Chaplin 86), Wilks (Thiam 90), Bähre; Woodrow (Miller 90). Subs (not used): Collins, Williams, Styles, Halme.

BOOKED: Mowatt, Diaby, Wilks.

GOAL: Thomas (13).

FULHAM (4-3-3): Bettinelli; Odoi, Bryan, Mawson, Le Marchand (Christie 33); McDonald, Johansen (Knockaert 65), Cairney; Kamara, Cavaleiro (Ayite 74), Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Rodak, Kebano, de la Torre, Fonte.

BOOKED: Le Marchand.

REFEREE: Andy Davies (Hampshire).

ATTENDANCE: 14,832.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/08/battling-barnsley-fell-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham need further signings

Fulham's miserable defeat at Barnsley this afternoon wasn't the way anyone would have wanted to start the new campaign – but the manner of the opening day reverse should sharpen minds amongst the club's hierarchy as we head into the final hours of the summer transfer window. It's clear that Scott Parker's squad needs more bodies if we are to mount a credible promotion challenge – and I would be identifying at least three more additions as vital.

CENTRE BACK

Fulham have the same defence that conceded 81 goals last season – the highest both in the Premier League and across all of Europe's top flights. I question the confidence they have in each other and there is a dire need for more depth to challenge the players Parker already has at his disposal. As we have seen since Alfie Mawson has arrived, he's partial to an injury and we will be very fortunate if he can play through a gruelling 46-game schedule. If he stays fit, Mawson will be an integral part to our success but I feel it is important to have a new face playing beside him.

RIGHT BACK

I am not a fan of Denis Odoi playing right back as he has put in his best performances playing in the centre alongside Tim Ream. That leaves us with Cyrus Christie or Steven Sessegnon as our right back and if I had to pick between the two, I would edge towards young Sessegnon to start. I do feel there are some quality right backs we could try and sign to give further options in that position. The likes of Jayden Bogle from Derby or Darnell Fisher from Preston come to mind – they might not be cheap, but they would bring proven quality in a position where we've struggled to replace Ryan Fredericks.

HOLDING MIDFIELDER

Kevin McDonald was pivotal to our success two seasons ago under Slavisa Jokanovic in the 2017/2018 promotion season. He captained the side in the absence of Tom Cairney at times and was arguably the real leader on the pitch in any case. He has never been blessed with pace but relied on his excellent reading of the games. There are signs already that he may struggle to replicate those heady days these season. I would like to see a new holding midfielder brought in with less mileage on the clock to supplement the passion and hunger McDonald provides. You can't honestly consider Ibrahima Cisse capable back up in this position – and a quality deputy to McDonald is a must before the window closes.

Time is running out for Fulham to strengthen our squad in order to put together a serious challenge for the top six this season. The first-team set up looks light on numbers already and a couple of injuries could cause us real problems. With only two additions over the summer, Scott Parker is right to consider us light in both defence and in the midfield. I really hope Parker doesn't suffer the same fate as Jokanovic by being shown the door too early as I still believe we are suffering a hangover from his dismissal.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2019/08/fulham-need-further-signings/