Friday Fulham Stuff - 03/01/20...

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Results

Thursday
Derby	2-1	Barnsley
Swansea	1-0	Charlton

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Parker fumes at ref, Knockaert abuse and promotion chants - Reading FC moments missed after Fulham victory

Some of the bits you might not have seen from Royals' New Year's Day clash at Craven Cottage

Reading produced another clinical display to record their fourth successive Championship win on Wednesday.

The 2-1 New Year's Day victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage has put them in a strong position going into the second half of the season.

Goals by John Swift and Charlie Adam proved the difference and while Whites sub Ivan Cavaleiro netted for the hosts shortly after coming on, they were unable to break down a resolute Royals backline.

Here are five things you may have missed from the game.
Parker fumes at referee

It proved a frustrating afternoon for Scott Parker and his Fulham side who have been plagued with inconsistency this term.

His frustration boiled over at the end of the first half as the sides headed back towards the changing room.

Parker was unhappy with referee Geoff Eltringham's decision not to give his side a penalty in the closing minutes of the half for a challenge in the box on striker Aleksander Mitrovic.

The former West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder tried to get his point across to the official and was visibly livid about the call.

A few other Fulham players had some choice words too as they trudged off and clearly Reading's gameplan had got on the wrong side of them.
Knockaert abuse

Fulham midfielder Anthony Knockaert was on the end of quite a bit of abuse by Reading fans, especially in the first half as the Whites played towards the stand for away supporters.

The Frenchman copped plenty of boos and unsavoury chants - none of which can be printed here(!) - every time he was on the ball or near the fans.

There was a tense moment when Reading were awarded a goal kick after the ball rolled out in the corner and one fan then threw the ball in to him.

Knockaert then turned around and gave the supporters a stern look to express his displeasure with him. Chants of 'he's going to cry in a minute' then rung out as the fans continued to wind him up.

In the end, the midfielder was unable to silence them and the loyal Royals had the last laugh.
A wicked deflection

Reading's first goal was a carbon copy of the opening goal at Preston on Sunday.

Tyler Blackett went on the overlap and picked out Swift with a low cross from the byline. Swift then opened his body up to turn the ball home first time.

It was the end of a lovely team move although there was a huge chunk of fortune for Swift as his effort was deflected into the corner of the net by Fulham defender Tim Ream.

In real time very few people noticed it, but replays clearly show Reading got extremely lucky and had the ball not hit Ream, it would have gone into the arms of the goalkeeper, stayed 0-0 and who knows what the end result could have been.

After years of disappointment, few would begrudge Royals some good fortune like this from time to time.
Gunter's landmark appearance

It was a memorable day for Reading defender Chris Gunter who made his 300th appearance for the club.

The Welshman, who is enjoying an impressive run in the side following the injury to Andy Yiadom, is in his eighth season at the club.

He is the club's joint longest serving player along with Garath McCleary and has shown tremendous professionalism in recent months.

Having been left out in the cold by Jose Gomes, he has slotted back into the senior set-up seamlessly and has become a key part of a side which is now lost just once in eight matches.

This milestone appearance could not have gone much better for him.
Promotion chants

It was a fantastic away day for Reading supporters who packed out the away end.

They were having a whale of a time and who could blame them - Royals have now won four matches in a row (in the space of just 12 days) and are only five points off the play-off places.

Could this be the year? There is still a long way to go, but chants like 'Up the Football League we go' and 'The Royals are going up' show the belief is creeping back in.

Suffering just three defeats in 14 games shows this side means. They are in a hurry to climb the table and want to catch up the rest who are pushing for a top six spot.

On recent form, Reading are going to take some stopping.



https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/parker-fumes-ref-knockaert-abuse-17499713

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Parker gives verdict on Fulham's loss to Reading

Fulham manager Scott Parker has rued his side's missed opportunities after succumbing to a 2-1 defeat at home to Reading in the Championship yesterday.

John Swift fired Reading into the lead after 14-minutes, with Charlie Adam scoring his first for the club to double the lead after the restart.

Ivan Cavaleiro scored just four-minutes after coming off the bench with a fine curling effort from an angle, but Mark Bowen's side stood firm and left the Cottage with all three points.

Speaking to www.fulhamfc.com after the game, Parker was critical of his side's performance:

"I've stood in this position many a time this season to be fair, with the same feeling of scratching your heads as to how you're one down after the first time they enter our box.

"We put them under immense pressure, but at both ends of the pitch today we just weren't good enough. It was too easy for them to score. We put them under a lot of pressure but didn't capitalise on that, so it was disappointing overall."

Fulham had 71% possession against Reading yesterday, and had twenty shots throughout the game compared to Reading's 11.

It was credit to Reading and their game-plan that they kept Fulham down to one goal, but for Parker it's the same old story of squandering chances:

"We controlled the game and we had loads of chances, but it's one of those things," explained the 39-year-old. "Ultimately, you need something more sometimes than flamboyant play, nice control of a football match, possession, chances."

The loss was Fulham's fourth in their last eight games but they remain in the top-six, sitting in 5th – a point behind Brentford in 3rd and two ahead of Millwall who moved into the play-offs after their win over Luton.

This could be a big month for Fulham – they look as though they have one or two players wanting out, and a lot of fans are starting to become really unsettled with how their season is panning out.

The verdict

Four losses from the last eight simply isn't good enough for Fulham. They had more than enough chances to win the game comfortably yesterday but as Parker said, his side were too wasteful yet again.

It's baffling how they couldn't score an equaliser yesterday with the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic, Bobby Reid and so on, and something needs to change pretty soon if Fulham are to remain top-six contenders.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/parker-gives-verdict-on-fulhams-loss-to-reading/

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Aston Villa Tickets

Join us at Craven Cottage this Saturday for some Emirates FA Cup action as Fulham take on Aston Villa in the Third Round.

The match will kick-off at 3.01pm, with the delay part of the 'take a minute' initiative which encourages fans to think about looking after their mental health.

Tickets are on General Sale with supporters able to secure up to six tickets per person for this fixture, however if a supporters' ticket history only includes Aston Villa you will not be eligible to purchase.

Advanced priced tickets are available from just £20 for adults, £15 for concessions and £10 for juniors, with Season Ticket Holders able to save £5 on their match ticket, if purchased before midnight on Friday. More info on pricing can be found on our match centre page.

Secure your seat online, by phone on 0203 871 0810 (opt. 1) or in person from the Fulham Ticket Office.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/02/aston-villa-tickets

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Langley targeting 'fresh start' against Fulham

Goalkeeper Dan Langley is hopeful Newcastle United under-23s can begin the new year strongly ahead of the young Magpies' Premier League 2 visit of Fulham.

Newcastle's youngsters take on the Cottagers at Newcastle's Little Benton Academy on Friday afternoon (kick-off 12pm BST) aiming to achieve a double over their West London opponents following a 2-1 away win in August.

However, United's second-string currently sit in tenth place of Premier League 2 division two, seven points adrift of the final play-off spot and Langley, who has been competing alongside Jake Turner for the number one jersey this term, admitted his side can learn from a difficult first half of the season heading into the new year.

Langley told nufc.co.uk: "The start of the season has not been ideal in terms of the points that we've wanted so I think it would be a fresh start to 2020 if we can get off the mark with a win and push forward in order to try and get into the play-off places.

"Every game we go into, we believe that we can go and get points out of them. We will approach this game like every other one, going in there and trying to do everything we can to get the three points.

"We know we haven't done as well as we did last season. We need to try and get three points (against Fulham) and push on from that game and try to get something out of the season.

"I feel that we need to be more solid at the back and focus on trying to keep our opponents out a little bit better than what we have been doing at the moment.

"We'll focus on trying to get more clean sheets as the strikers have been scoring goals so we shouldn't be having results like we have. We'll look to concede less and hopefully the results shall come.

"Having the competition from Jake (Turner) is one of the best things you can probably get in football. It keeps you on your game and keeps you more focussed because if you get a permanent place, you could almost ease off. With us, we keep pushing each other really hard in training because we both want to play."

Langley, a Newcastle United supporter, has been participating in the warm-ups of the Magpies' last two league games against Everton and Leicester City respectively, working alongside fellow goalkeepers Martin Dúbravka and Karl Darlow.

The 19-year-old revealed his involvement with the experienced shot-stoppers in recent weeks as well as testing himself before Premier League clashes at St. James' Park has been important for the learning youngster.

"The level and speed goes up with the first team," Langley added. "You keep benefiting from all the players around you and it can only make you better as a player.

"When you're younger, and being from Newcastle, you want to play for the first team. When you are training with them, it feels like you are one step closer to achieving that and it's a really nice environment to be in.

"It's something completely different to anything I've had. When you are looking around in the stadium, seeing a lot of people and hearing the noise of the crowd, it's a really good experience and benefits me a lot.

"They've been really good with me. When I've been at the training ground, they are both giving me little pointers and ways on which I can improve. They are really helpful for my development and I couldn't ask for more from them. They've been top class."

The Premier League 2 clash at Newcastle United's Little Benton Academy is free for the public.



https://www.nufc.co.uk/news/latest-news/langley-targeting-fresh-start-against-fulham/

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Games for the Weekend 04/01
FA Cup this weekend and we welcome Aston Villa to the Cottage

So we have a break from the league this weekend to take part in the FA Cup.
I would imagine that Villa will be looking to get a little revenge for the play off final but to be honest I can't see either team too bothered about a cup run, I'm sure both would see it as a distraction.

COYWs

Games of Interest...
Saturday 4th
Bristol City v Shrewsbury Town
Millwall v Newport County
Rochdale v Hull
Fulham v Aston Villa
Watford v Tranmere Rovers
Fleetwood Town v Portsmouth
Man City v Port Vale

Sunday 5th
Crewe v Barnsley
Sheff Utd v AFC Fylde

Monday 6th
Arsenal v Leeds

come on over to the forum and join in the discussion...
https://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?board=1.0



https://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=1047

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3 things we clearly learnt about Fulham after their defeat to Reading

Fulham lost 2-1 at home to Reading in the Championship yesterday.

Goals from John Swift and Charlie Adam either side of half-time gave Reading their fourth-straight win in the Championship yesterday, with Ivan Cavaleiro scoring a consolation for the Cottagers – his first since mid-October.

The loss ended Fulham's three-game unbeaten streak in the Championship but they remain a top-six side, hanging on to 5th after defeat for Sheffield Wednesday at home to Hull.

Plenty of fans weren't happy with the way that Fulham lost last night though, and Parker has plenty to ponder before his side host Aston Villa in the FA Cup Third Round this weekend.

Here we take a look at three things we learnt about Fulham after yesterday's defeat:

It's not a numbers game
But if it were, Fulham would've won – they dominated possession with 71% of the ball last night, had 20 shots throughout the game compared to Reading's 11, and had nine corner kicks compared to Reading's two.

At the end of the game though, only one statistic matters and that's goals. It's baffling how Fulham don't score four or five each game with the attacking players that they have, which suggests that something isn't right tactically.

Fulham were far too wasteful last night. They had the chances to win the game comfortably but in the end, their defensive ineptitude paired with their wastefulness in front of goal caused their eventual downfall.

Mitro getting frustrated?
Aleksandar Mitrovic is the cream of a very experienced crop at Fulham but last night, he looked like a player who wanted out.

Fulham fans will hate to hear it but Mitrovic looked uninterested, and often frustrated. He's been linked with moves to the likes of Aston Villa and Serie A side Genoa this season but has insisted he's happy at Craven Cottage.

That didn't look the case last night and if the Serb does want out and continues to play with the demeanour that he did against Reading, both Parker and the fans will quickly turn against him.

Time to drop 4-3-3?
Parker's Fulham have become synonymous with the 4-3-3 formation. At times this season it's had them playing some of the best football that the Cottage has ever witnessed but other times, like last night, opposition teams just find them too easy to breach.

Whether it was to do with their make-shift defence which featured Denis Odoi at centre-back, or whether it was just the same old set-up from Fulham, something isn't quite right there at the moment.

Fulham have now lost four of their last eight Championship matches and face a real threat of dropping out of the top-six, and not being able to find a way back in – something needs to change at Fulham and soon, or their dreams of an immediate return to the Premier League will be dust.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-things-we-clearly-learnt-about-fulham-after-their-defeat-to-reading/

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in memoriam

As we look forward to what a new year and new decade might bring, ahead of our home fixture with Fulham on Saturday 11th January we will be taking a moment to reflect and remember all those members of the Hull City family that we have sadly lost over the last 12 months.

As has become customary before our first home league fixture of a new year, a minute's applause will be held ahead of kick-off as we remember fans, former players, friends and loved ones that are no longer with us.

We're inviting supporters to send in the names of people that they would like to be remembered to feature on our Big Screens during the minute's applause. Having had such an overwhelming response in previous years, please note that, due to capacity, we are unable to display images on this occasion.

If you would like the name of a loved one of friend to be included, please email it through to [email protected] by no later than 5pm on Thursday 9th January.

On behalf of everybody at Hull City, we pass on our sincere condolences for your loss.



https://www.hullcitytigers.com/remember-lost-loved-ones-friends-at-home-fixture-vs-fulham/

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Get To Know... Patrick Roberts

Patrick Roberts became our first signing of the January window after arriving on loan from Manchester City. Get to know him with our factfile...

    Having previously been in the Academy ranks at AFC Wimbledon, Patrick went on to join Fulham and signed his first professional contract in February 2014.
    He came off the bench for his Fulham debut in a defeat away to Manchester City a month after penning professional terms.
    A winger, Patrick was brought off the bench for the first few games during Fulham's 2014/15 campaign in the Championship following their relegation from the Premier League.
    Patrick was given his first start for the Cottagers in a home defeat to Wolves.
    An England Youth international who's scored at every level from Under-16s – U20s, he made a further 17 appearances for Fulham that season.
    In July 2015, Patrick was snapped up by Manchester City.
    Patrick's City debut came in a 4-1 victory away to Sunderland in the League Cup, replacing Jesus Navas.
    The 22-year-old stepped off the bench in September 2015 for his City Premier League debut, losing out to Tottenham Hotspur.
    In January 2016, Patrick made the move north of the border to link up with Celtic on an 18-month loan deal.
    His Celtic debut was at home to Inverness as he came off the bench for Gary Mackay-Steven.
    Patrick's first goals for the Glasgow outfit came in a 3-1 home victory over Hearts. He went on to score a further four goals that campaign.
    His first season at Celtic Park ended with a Scottish Premiership title, a trophy he would win a further two times.
    He held down a place in the Celtic side during the 2016/17 season, amassing 47 appearances and 11 goals – including one on his Champions League debut against Lincoln RI.
    Patrick scored against his parent club Manchester City in a 1-1 draw in a Group C Champions League clash, opening the scoring at the Etihad.
    Celtic and Patrick finished 2016/17 with a Scottish Premiership, a Scottish League Cup and Scottish Cup.
    Patrick renewed his loan stint with Celtic in August 2017 with a season-long deal. A hamstring injury limited him to just 19 appearances in his final campaign with the Scottish giants, but still enjoyed success with another hat-trick of trophies.
    He spent the 2018/19 season with Girona in La Liga, where he featured 21 times.
    Patrick returned to English soil this season, though, and joined Premier League newcomers Norwich City on loan – however he only made four appearances for the Canaries.



https://www.mfc.co.uk/news/get-to-know-patrick-roberts

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Scott Parker: Time's Up?

Nik MacNee states the case that it's time for Fulham to find a new manager capable of reviving Fulham.

Towards the end of Slavisa Jokanovic's tenure with Fulham in the Premier League, every loss felt like a critical blow to his and Fulham's chances of survival. The Bournemouth home defeat and away losses to Cardiff and Huddersfield in his final month, conceding eight goals to underwhelming PL outfits and only scoring two, plummeted his reputation and promoted Fulham to a laughing stock. The process much repeated itself with Ranieri – shambolic away results to poor teams and let downs at Craven Cottage.

For some, the depressing loss to and Reading will be that same point to many Fulham fans. For others, it would've been the depressing onslaught by Brentford at Griffin Park in December and possibly even earlier for others. Yet for myself, it arrived to me no sooner than the first game of the season at Barnsley that perhaps the feel good feeling that Scott had cultivated in the final ten games of Fulham's time in the Premier League was already gone and that he was not the man to take the team forward.

There have been both highs and lows under Parker's management – that much is fair to admit. It would be harsh to compare Parker's tenure to the disasters of Ranieri and Magath after all, the latter certainly setting club back for two years, if not more. However, despite the highs that there have been (Wigan, Millwall and QPR at home), these have all been too fleeting and have hidden the ultimate truth since Parker began his championship campaign: Fulham have played mediocre to subpar football under their current head coach. The problem that has plagued Fulham for years since the erosion of the Thames Barrier in defence hasn't been improved in the slightest and has gotten worse over the course of the current season.

Parker has had 24 Championship games now in addition to 10 Premier League games and it's hard to count on one hand how many truly convincing performances Fulham have had under him. Millwall and Wigan certainly count, although both are/were hardly competent teams at the time. Even the Derby 3-0 win came with a boring and dull second half performance against a team not up for it whatsoever.

The Derby result also brought up its own issue with Parker – almost a seeking of applause or validation for figuring out something about an opponent. Pointing out that Derby poorly defend set pieces hardly makes you Pep Guardiola or Alex Ferguson, nor does calling a Leeds team pattern of play "predictable and easy to figure out" after winning a game in which Fulham benefitted from a bad penalty call and scored from a corner. Perhaps the interviewer should've pointed out that the "predictable" Leeds style of play currently has them ten points ahead of Fulham with a worse squad and in the automatic promotion spots.

The ultimate irony lies in itself that Parker called Leeds predictable – for its Fulham themselves who are utterly predictable in themselves. If the players are even coached, it's hard to see what exactly they are focusing on in training. In fact, it's so utterly predictable that I, the complete opposite of a Michael Cox of Zonal Marking, can write them out for you here:

CM's receive ball -> Pass to wingers -> Cross to Mitrovic. If no cross available, cut in and shoot. Recover ball when possible and repeat.

That's it. That's literally it. There's no bombing of the full backs forward to create overlaps and overloads like there was under Jokanovic, nor is there the desire to play to Mitrovic's feet to bully CB's and push men forward. It's bland, repetitive and yet has got Fulham (for now) in the playoff spots solely due to excellence of the big Serbian striker.

Indeed, it's very much been individual excellence that's powered Fulham this year under Scott, especially Mitrovic's and the long range of goals of Tom Cairney that have predictably dried up. Fulham's first win of the campaign against Blackburn under Scott was emblematic of this issue – play poorly for the opening half hour before going into the lead due to a long range goal.

Furthermore, the baffling tactical and selection issues are all too apparent. The consistent churn at right back, starting with the likes of Odoi and Steven Sessegnon before now seemingly bringing Cyrus Christie back into the fold in an attempt to solidify the position without much thought, has leftt many scratching their head. Furthermore, increasingly befuddling has been how Parker can't quite seem to figure out what to do with Anthony Knockaert, a relatively consistent starter for Brighton in the Premier League since their promotion under Chris Hughton.

In truth, these minor complaints could go on forever and ever and I refuse to believe that there's a few Fulham fans that don't have a problem with the clear underperformance of the team right now. However, these micro tactical and selection issues are minor compared to the overall huge systemic issues at Fulham both in their upper management and with Parker right now.

Its admittedly early in Parker's managerial career and I don't doubt that he can go on to fix these issues further on in his career but there's three major issues that have plagued Parker thus far. First, despite Parker's desire of playing a dominating and possessive style of play, Fulham just don't do that. Although, they are second in the league in possession % (59.6% to Leeds' 60%) and take the fourth most shots per game, Fulham's games tend to be open and nervous – much like a basketball game, with each team seemingly taking a turn to attack. Alongside this, Fulham don't have a desire to press whatsoever. Rather, they more hurriedly rush back to defensive positions after an attack with the opponent already on the break and the defensive line far too high. Brentford repeatedly exposed this, constantly causing panic in Bryan and Christie through Mbuemo and Benrahama on the wings. Fulham rank 18th and 21st in tackles and interceptions per game respectively – compare this to their Leeds counterparts who play with more possession yet rank 2nd and 6th. This desire of bringing back a Jokanovic style of play that Parker has stated is quite simply a lie.

Secondly, while I've already waxed lyrical enough about the blandness of Fulham's attacking tactics, it should be noted how quickly the attacking fluidity and final third combinations that Fulham had under Jokanovic had disappeared. Although they lost Ryan Fredericks and Matt Targett, the likes of Bryan, Christie and Odoi all featured as full backs in Slav's time hut have lost all semblance of desire to overlap and cross all that much. Instead, it feels Parker has very much taken the Unai Emery route of seeking improved buildup in the first two thirds of the pitch while forgetting that it's all quite useless if the midfielders and wingers don't know what to do once they reach the opposition's box. I can't quite count the amount of times I've seen Knockaert play a cross in that goes out for a goal kick because there's no movement from the midfielders or full backs to open some space up for him or others.

This all neatly ties into the final principle issue – when the opposition has the ball. From the start of October, they have only allowed less than 1.0xG conceded to a team just twice – Derby and Stoke at home. Even at Reading away, they still allowed the opposition to compile just enough for 1.0. With the calibre of player that Fulham have at their disposal, this simply put is an utter embarrassment. That Fulham have (to date) overperformed their xG conceded (30 to 34.2xG conceded) is an indictment of how good Marek Rodak has been since his replacing of Marcus Bettinelli, a change that even Parker saw as a necessity.

However, these defensive issues have come to a head in December where the team has collapsed. The team is conceding 1.87xG per game on average (a total of 13.09) since December 1st relative to 11 total goals. That the metrics are saying that your football team is lucky to have only conceded that high amount is both disheartening and straight up infuriating. Even if you take into account the performance of Fulham's defence over the course of the whole season, they are still projected to concede a whopping 64 goals, a far cry from their 46 in their promotion season. This can't continue the way they are going and something has to change.

For as much as I'd like to blame Parker for a lot of the faults of this season so far, many of the issues of the past 18 months have to be laid at the feet of upper management, who put themselves in a bad position of having to sign a lot of players before the Premier League season who kicked off and kicked off this wild chain reaction of failure. They signed bad players like Timothy Fosu Mensah and Andre Schurrle. They hired the wrong manager for Fulham in Claudio Ranieri*. They didn't prepare for the Championship in January last year. The list goes on. Shahid Khan has very vocally taken fault for what went wrong and vowed that the club will learn from the mistakes. Fair enough.

(*Authors note: They missed out on the perfect manager to continue developing Jokanovic's style of play and probably would've made the likes of Seri and Anguissa work in Ralph Hassenhuttl but yeah, let's chase Ranieri or Andre Villas-Boas, two managers with seemingly similar footballing philosophies.)

There's one issue: the club haven't. Khan Senior has gone quiet and Khan Junior is seemingly fixed overseas with his other endeavours. I won't turn this article/rant/word vomit into a splurge about this whole setup, as it's been written and talked about extensively on social media and other outlets. What is required however is clarification from the club – in layman's terms, what exactly is going on in Fulham's upper management and who is doing what? Does Tony Khan do much with Fulham anymore? All the fans ask for is clarification and understanding. Not to sound like a business management lecturer from university, but bad communication leads to bad performance. Do we need to repeat this that often?

This has also been perturbed by the fact that the independent media has seemingly deserted Fulham and left the club by itself. This in itself has given the club a perfect storm. No one is asking tough questions of them or the goings on in the club. This, in itself, is shameful of both the media and the club not to at least bother to find someone to cover the club. If the fan furore is to die down, it's because they'll get answers. Not more silence.

This isn't a personal crusade against Parker or the club. I'm sure Parker will go on in his career to be successful at some point, whether that's with Fulham by figuring out the issues or with another team. It's entirely possible that his current tactics go on to work brilliantly with a different set of players or that this was simply a step too far for him.

Fulham fans were able to bask for a few seasons at least by having a manager in Jokanovic with a plan that ultimately got them to the promised land of the Premier League. Fulham and him ultimately reached the end of his cycle but failed to progress to the next stage. As such, they had to start over again and likely will have to, at the end of this season, as I do not anticipate the Khans wanting to bin Parker just yet. But they have to start preparing for the situation that there's a strong likelihood that Scott is not their guy and to make a plan for someone with a bit experience that can carry them to more than a scrappy playoff team in the Championship. Don't be afraid to dream a little bigger, Fulham.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2020-01-02-times-up-for-parker/

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Liam Cooper apologises to Fulham ballboy after authorities raise incident with him

The Whites captain has issued an apology on Twitter following an incident during their clash at Craven Cottage last month

Leeds United captain Liam Cooper has issued a classy message of apology to a Fulham ball boy after using "bad language" in front of him during their recent clash at Craven Cottage.

United were chasing the game 2-1 after Josh Onomah's strike had put Fulham in front at Craven Cottage.

That goal proved to be decisive, with the Cottagers going on to claim all three points.

However, Cooper has admitted to an error of judgement with emotions running high but has responded in the perfect manner.

The United captain has revealed he has sent a signed shirt and boots to Fulham for them to pass on, as well as a hand-written apology letter.

Writing on his personal Twitter account, Cooper said: "The FA have brought it to my attention that during injury time in our game with Fulham in December I used some bad language in front of a ball boy.

"I was trying to get the ball back for a throw-in during the final moments of the game as we look to equalise. That isn't an excuse, I'm the captain of Leeds United, a role I take extremely seriously - and I should know better.

"I apologise to the ball boy in question and his family, I've sent some boots and a shirt with a written apology to Fulham to pass one. Once again, sorry."



https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/liam-cooper-apologises-fulham-ballboy-17505131

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Everton make contact with Fulham over Jean Michael Seri

Everton have made contact with Fulham over midfielder Jean Michael Seri, according to reports.

The Ivory Coast international, who is currently on loan with Galatasaray, was an Everton target prior to him having signed for the Cottagers in the summer of 2018.

Fulham made the club record £25million purchase following their return to the Premier League, however they were forced to loan the 28-year old out last summer after suffering relegation back to the Championship.

Formerly of Nice, Seri had once attracted the attention of Barcelona, and came extremely closing to moving to Catalonia only for the move to fall apart at the eleventh hour.

Now he is being touted to move once again in January, with Foot Mercato (via TBR) claiming that both Everton and Monaco are exploring that option, having opened discussions with Seri's representatives.

Carlo Ancelotti was said to have been keen on the Ivorian during his time with Napoli, and with Everton desperate for midfield reinforcements, he has turned to his former target once again.

Read Everton Verdict

Seri has all of the qualities to succeed at a club like Everton and with the club's current limitations in that area, Ancelotti should be fully backed if he wants to sign the 28-year old.

He will be a gamble, no doubt, after he failed to impress with Fulham. However, he isn't the only talented midfielder to come to England, underwhelm and get his side relegated, before recovering from that, with Idrissa Gana Gueye having done alright for himself after "flopping" with Aston Villa.

James McCarthy also couldn't prevent his side from being relegated, but he was a midfield general for Everton for a time, proving pivotal to the club's success under Roberto Martinez.

Seri is rebuilding his reputation in Turkey, and he could be the kind of gamble that Everton need to take.



https://readeverton.com/2020/01/02/everton-make-contact-with-fulham-over-jean-michael-seri/

[WhiteJC]

Five Thoughts: Fulham 1-2 Reading

Another avoidable bump in the road, smashed head on by Scott Parker's incompatible Fulham banter bus. Nursing a ranging hangover from the wholehearted celebrations the night before, trust it to be Fulham that bring you back down to earth with a bucket of cold water and a hefty slap in the gob. Also, Mark Bowen is a top notch prat, just saying.

A depleted squad? Maybe, but we've apparently got the depth and desire within us but, clearly, we're not as well-founded as we think. That's a 4th loss at home this term, against an average opponent that was merely on a commonplace winning streak. Our defeat against Bristol City was identical, so this was not a one-off. Lion's share of possession, camped in the Royals' half and our pants still wound up round our ankles.

So, Aston Villa are next in the FA Cup, joy of joys but, if anything, at least it's an opportunity for our fringe players to get a well-deserved run around. Neeskens Kebano, Steven Sessegnon, Ibrahima Cisse, the myth himself, I'm looking at you to shake things up. 5 Thoughts is usually reserved for Championship matches only, although I can't wait to talk about Villa's 30,000 following in a stadium that can currently only hold around 15,000-or-so. Ahhhh, the compelling magic of the cup!

Susceptible Single Setting
Parker's men have only have one accessible setting and it's susceptible, repetitive and predictable. Monopolising possession should be nothing more than a bonus for actually dominating games, which we simply can't do because we're far too tentative when building offensive patterns. Reading set up two banks of four and absorbed Fulham's beleaguered passing sequences. Crabbing side to side doesn't get you anywhere very fast and it certainly didn't trouble the Royals. Our passing phases resemble an elementary training drill and that's how teams interpret our foreseeable approach as well. Sammy's right, all Fulham seem to do is build you up, bursting with optimism, only to let you down with some of the most inane football we've seen.

Even with the raw power of Aboubakar Kamara, the ingenuity of Bobby Decordova-Reid and the brutalising, chart-topping strength of Aleksandar Mitrovic on the turf, we still couldn't dismantle the Royals' defensive line, no matter how many times we came back to try our luck again. It doesn't compute, it's unfathomable and to be absolutely honest, it's embarrassing. Our firepower and creativity makes others drool in envy, it's undeniably the deadliest, but the disinclined manner in which we construct and execute our opportunities, there's newborn babies out there with more bite and purchase. We let an elderly throwback with a face like a charred shop-bought pizza compound our misery, a bloke that quite literally tried to score from 50 yards because he's still living in 2015 and you know what? We deserved it. Charlie Adam, the Scottish Andreas Iniesta with Doritos for teeth.

We have no alternative solution, no surrogate to our passive method and with all the ability we have in our ranks, it really is inexcusable. We didn't even play that badly at all, there's just no substance, no structure and no variant whatsoever. Clever interchanges between BDR and Knockaert, we could marvel at it all afternoon but it didn't amount to anything. Maintaining a high press, it examined Reading's composure but they soon wormed their way out of trouble. Aleksandar Mitrovic drifting out to the channels, he'll hold the moon if gravity didn't exist, but we need him in the penalty area to convert, not invent. We scuttled down blind alleys continuously from central positions, we resorted to desperate long balls when the entire XI stood statuesque and we practised the same foiled formula repeatedly. Somebody on that pitch has to take charge, freshen our obsolete procedure, because whatever Parker's barking from the touchline, it clearly isn't working.

Prospect's Positive Performance
Thrown into the fray for a crocked Harrison Reed in the 17th minute, aspiring youth prospect Matt O'Riley's introduction to first-team football was an baptism of fire to say the least – given the sheer weight of expectation and the demanding circumstances, but he performed superbly. Shepherding possession sensibly and supporting both attack and defence simultaneously, the 19-year-old novice bared the fundamental hallmarks any aspiring wannabe should, and if I were to nominate anybody for our respective Man of the Match, it would be the U23 graduate indefinitely.

Now, I'm not entirely discarding his role in Reading's second goal but he wasn't at fault, not really at all. He did lose possession cheaply, granted, but it was a collective comedy of errors that held the door open for the visitors to dance through unscathed. Otherwise, I was pleasantly surprised, enlightened, to how composed and assured he was, and that's what I'll take from his debut in the Championship. He was a little brittle in 50/50s, a shade naive when closing space, but he kept the ball moving and tried to unpick Reading's stringent shape.

Harrsion Reed established a competitive tempo, grinding Reading's midfield down as he does with every opposing department he faces and O'Riley, naturally, is a completely different option. The game altered as soon as the special one anchorman departed play, although O'Riley was no passenger. He's comfortable with the ball at his feet, has a burgeoning vision and, being 19-years-old with next to no senior experience, I was never expecting him to carry the same authority as the Southampton loanee. Luca de la Torre replaced O'Riley in the 83rd minute, presumably to inject Fulham's midfield with a little more youthful energy, but the American youngster simply didn't change much at all. O'Riley supplied crosses, connected with his teammates effectively and manned the deck when enforcing his defensive duties. Hauling him off was an injustice and I hope, for Parker's sake, there was a credible reason behind it.

Anthony Agitates, Again
I've never know a more irritating player than Anthony Knockaert, not in all the years I've spent berating perfectly competent professionals for their unsavoury flaws. That's where my frustration originates from. He's held in a superior regard at this level and he exhausts his first-rate talent, or so it's known. Early on, Knockaert worked the channels well, much like he did against Stoke City, hitting the box with appetising crosses but there was always a smidgen too much sauce on his final delivery. He sized Tyler Blackett up and had the beating of the left-back but every single time the ball was under his supervision, our momentum dispersed. I hate to be the spokesman for the tirade against the hot and cold 28-year-old, but I'm left with no choice.

Yes, he actually explored his touchline well, bursting into clear pockets with the box to weave into or pepper with in-swingers, but his final product was such a horror show. He's greedy, selfish and a discouragingly temperamental character. How he plummeted from a show-stopping performance against the Potters to a villainous showing against Reading just a few days later, I'll never know. Snatching at speculative half-volleys, fluffing routine crosses, those needless, tedious flicks and flip-flaps, he's infuriating because we all know what he can really do, what he's sincerely capable of, but his excessive flamboyance, his redundant influence all factor heavily towards his criticisms.

The final straw for me happened late on, when he decided, foolishly, to lash out at Michael Morrison. I mean, how dense can you truly be? Retrospectively, I'd have brandished a red card because it was a spiteful act of characteristic petulance. Geoff Eltringham may have missed the act itself but if he'd have seen it with full sight, it would have been more than just a caution. Knockaert walks a tightrope whenever things aren't going his way and it'll only hinder us further. Would I miss him if he went back to Brighton & Hove Albion? No. I'd welcome it. He's what the French call "les incompétents".

Christie's Contrary Capability
Cyrus Christie got stuck into the thick of the action and did a fine job along the right channel, when he wasn't being spun into oblivion by Ovie Ejaria, that is. The Republic of Ireland international's afternoon was a mixed bag, crammed with delectable positives and repulsive negatives but I've noticed a radical change in the right-back. His engine's upgraded from a 2 cylinder to a V8 in a matter of weeks. He's a port-to-port ferry, doing his bit at both ends of the pitch and he manoeuvres like one, too. See what I mean about the pros and cons?

Immersing himself in the action, Christie picked pockets, drove forward and crossed whenever humanly possible. Cast your mind back to last season, Selhurst Park, where he shirked every given opportunity to test his marker and get the ball in the danger area – perhaps he was vastly out of his comfort zone against Patrick van Aanholt, but his confidence has clearly tripled since then. He didn't hesitate, he intercepted swiftly and carried the ball intently, streaming past Knockaert to hit the byline and, if play was turned over, he scurried back in retreat of Reading's systematic counter sieges, not a moment spared. That is what we ask for from our fullbacks and I'm pleased the 27-year-old is seemingly content with his responsibilities, even if it's still work in progress.

Could have done better, much better, for Reading's second in particular, but divine miracles work in mysterious ways and for the most part, I was happy with his overall application. Ejaria sent him for a Bovril and a shot of reality as he jinked through Christie's pinball flipper feet but you've got to take Christie with a tiny pinch of salt. He's not Cafu, he came through at Coventry City in his formative years. Of course, and naturally so, question marks hang over his decision making, his defensive acumen, although when he was required to advance in support, he actually made a considerable statement. Venomous words have been spat in the past but I've never wanted Christie to fail, not genuinely. Every so often he returns to his inadequate self but then, intermittently, he turns heads with unconventional flashes of promise.

Denouncing Dismal Defence
No Alfie Mawson (thankfully), Michael Hector not available, although Fulham still had a particularly versed back four on show against Reading and they were led up the garden path by the visitors' fleet-footed strike force. The curse of the ever-present weak link rots us to within an inch of insanity, yet again. Schoolboy doesn't even cut it, the way we held our nerve and discipline whilst attempting to withstand Reading's flowing counter attacks was infantile, but nothing ever changes. New year, same shoddy, incompetent defensive fortitude.

A dismal cohesion has plagued Fulham's rearguard for a number of years now and how can that be? How in the modern, professional game is that even allowed? Our defence is exactly the reason why we can't sufficiently string more than two victories together anymore. Our attack isn't firing in the way it should and that's another huge conundrum on its own, but our defence is terribly soft and penetrable, which doesn't help the odds of us prospering. I have no faith in our back line, whether it be a trio or a flat back four, we're just so fragile in every conceivable aspect.

Hector's arrival couldn't come sooner, but is he really going to be the answer? I feel so, so sorry for him. Having to partner either Tim Ream or Alfie Mawson, the Championship's bipolar twins, is not a prospect I'd relish. Both of Reading's goals were cataclysmic. Nobody read John Swift's movement, not a single soul shielded an ageing Adam from ghosting into a central position and there is no leadership, not an ounce of initiative amongst them. Tim Ream has been here before, Denis Odoi was his right-hand man during the 2017-18 campaign, so where has our nous, our trusted commonsense disappeared to? The Jamaican has one gargantuan job on his hands if he's going to flip Fulham's fortunes – this unsatisfactory dilemma runs deeper than being just a blip.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2020-01-02-5-thoughts-fulham-1-2-reading/

[WhiteJC]

Every Mind Matters

HRH the Duke of Cambridge and football legends champion mental health on Emirates FA Cup Third Round weekend.

• HRH The Duke of Cambridge has narrated a powerful new film starring famous faces from the world of football including Frank Lampard, Harry Maguire and Alex Scott, to encourage fans to take simple steps to look after their mental health

• The film has been released as a collaboration between Public Health England's Every Mind Matters, a groundbreaking mental health platform, and Heads Up, a season-long partnership between Heads Together and The FA, spearheaded by HRH The Duke of Cambridge

• The one minute film will be played to millions as kick-off times across all Emirates FA Cup Third Round fixtures are delayed by one-minute to focus on mental health

• Research shows just under half of men (45%) who have experienced early signs of mental health concerns in the last year, have never taken self-care actions to manage it (compared to 31% of women)

In an historic first, all 32 Emirates FA Cup Third Round fixtures this weekend will be delayed by one minute. A new film narrated by His Royal Highness, The Duke of Cambridge will be played before the matches, encouraging football fans to 'Take A Minute' to start taking action to look after their mental health and that of their family and friends.

The powerful one minute film features current and former players, pundits, managers and fans including Frank Lampard, Harry Maguire, Alex Scott, Dele Alli, Jordan Pickford, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Son Heung-Min, Hamza Choudhury, and Slaven Bilic. The film will play across stadiums, online and broadcasters, reaching millions of football fans across England.

The film has been released as a collaboration between Public Health England's (PHE) Every Mind Matters and The Football Association (The FA) and Heads Together's Heads Up campaign, who have teamed up to raise awareness of the simple actions we can all take to look after our mental health.

While the collaboration is aimed at everyone including players, supporters, friends and families, it's widely recognised that football can be a powerful way to reach men in particular. There are over 15 million football fans in England, 69% of whom are men.

A YouGov survey commissioned by PHE shows that men in England are less likely than women to seek help or take self-care actions for early signs of common mental health concerns.  It showed:

• Of the 78% of men who have experienced early signs of mental health concerns in the last year, just under half (45%) said they'd never taken self-care actions to manage their mental health, (compared to 31% of women)

• Of those men that did take steps to manage or improve their mental health, over three quarters (73%) wished they'd taken action sooner

• Men were also less likely to take self-care actions every day, with 18% of men doing so compared to one in four (24%) women.

Heads Up is a season long partnership between The FA and Heads Together, and spearheaded by HRH The Duke of Cambridge, which uses the popularity of football as a vehicle to generate the biggest ever conversation around mental health. For the Third Round, the campaign is now partnering with Every Mind Matters, a groundbreaking mental health platform from Public Health England. Together, the initiative will encourage football fans to look after their own mental health, and support friends and family who may be struggling. They can start this by completing a 'Mind Plan', a quick and free tool from Every Mind Matters that has already been completed over one million times.

By taking a minute to answer a few questions about how they are feeling, fans will get their own personalised action plan. Clinically assured by the NHS, the plan recommends a range of evidence based self-care actions for each individual, which are designed to deal with stress, boost their mood, improve sleep and feel more in control – preventing these common mental health concerns escalating into more serious, clinical conditions.

Duncan Selbie, chief executive of PHE, said: "As every fan knows, football has its highs and lows - and so does life. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the football community together in an important conversation about how we can all take care of our mental health, starting with a few simple actions."

Godric Smith, chair of the Heads Up campaign, comments: "Football is already doing some great work on mental health but it is really encouraging to see the whole game uniting around the Heads Up campaign in 2020 starting with the Emirates FA Cup Third Round. Support your team. Support your mates. And support yourself. The Every Mind Matters website is a great place to start. We all have mental health and we can all take a minute to think more about it and take simple, positive steps."

Mark Bullingham, The FA's Chief Executive, said: "We hope that the symbolic 60 second delay to all Emirates FA Cup Third Round fixtures will be the start of a journey for better mental health for the millions who will be watching one of English football's most famous weekends. We're delighted to have an association with Public Health England for this Round and to signpost fans to their 'Every Mind Matters' website, one of the simple steps that is readily available to drive change."

Dr Hilary Jones, comments: "Most of us experience some sort of mental health difficulty during our lives and we know that men in particular struggle with acknowledging and acting on any problems. We hope this new partnership will be able to reach men and women in a way that helps them to take action to look after their mental health."

The Emirates FA Cup Third Round kicks-off on Saturday 4 January at 12.31pm with games taking place across the weekend.

Fans can search Every Mind Matters to create their own personal mental health action plan or visit www.everymindmatters.co.uk.

Those in need of immediate support can text 'HeadsUp' to 85258 to be connected to a trained crisis counsellor. This service is available 24/7, and free to text from most mobile networks.

In conjunction with Heads Up charity partners Mind, CALM, Heads Together and Sporting Chance, fans will also be provided with helpful tips and advice on The FA website on how they can approach managing their mental health, at www.thefa.com/headsup.
Earlier this year, we sat down with some of the Fulham First Team to discuss the importance of mental health.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/03/every-mind-matters

[WhiteJC]

Fulham v Aston Villa: A chance to debunk the myth and gain revenge?

Aston Villa were often accused of 'doing a Fulham' following their cash-laden spending splurge following promotion to the Premier League, so it should come as no surprise that the two sides should face up at some point over the season.


The last meeting between the sides was a big one...

FA Cup draws often provide a sense of irony, be it a big derby clash or a memorable match-up - but for Villa fans, a meeting with the Cottagers will provide another chance to debunk the myth of their side following a similar route to the Londoners.

Fulham, of course, saw their season capitulate into relegation following their promotion to the top flight, amassing just 26 points in the process.

Villa are in the pack fighting the drop, but having earned 21 points already - it would take a disaster of unspoken proportions for a similar tally to ring true come the final day.

But should Dean Smith's side manage a win over the Cottagers this weekend, progression to the fourth round would also go against the grain of Fulham's previous season.

Claudio Ranieri's side were defeated 2-1 at home to League Two Oldham in the competition a year ago. Whilst Villa haven't been given the potential banana skin of a team vastly inferior to themselves, defeat to opposition below their pay grade - even by just eight places over two divisions, could harm their confidence.

Fulham are more than capable of catching teams off guard too. The quality in their attacking ranks is hailed as one which should be enough to fire them towards promotion once again.

Aleksandar Mitrovic is a forward who has shown his quality in the top tier of English football, whilst Anthony Knockaert and Ivan Cavaleiro both have the quality to trouble top flight defenders.

There's even a few names in Fulham's ranks to worry about from the last meeting between the sides, the Championship play-off final at Wembley back in 2018.

Ultimately, we could see numerous changes for a game and a competition which is sadly low on the priority list given each team's aims this season.

But should Villa beat Fulham in their own back yard, not only would it further end the comparisons between the two clubs, but it might also offer a sense of slight revenge against an opponent which handed supporters a day to forget on a much grander scale.



https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/aston-villa/2020/01/03/fulham-v-aston-villa-a-chance-to-debunk-the-myth-and-gain-revenge/

[WhiteJC]

Early Fulham team news emerges ahead of FA Cup clash with Aston Villa

Fulham manager Scott Parker has provided a squad update ahead of his side's FA Cup 3rd round tie against Aston Villa this Saturday at Craven Cottage.

The Cottagers will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing home defeat to an in-form Reading side on New Year's Day, but will have to contend with the same issues they faced on the injury front in that game for this upcoming cup tie.

Speaking to the club website, Parker discussed the current injuries in his squad, with more players looking doubtful for the upcoming FA Cup tie at Craven Cottage.

"Our squad's pretty light at this present moment in time because we've got so many injuries, so the fit players who are around it and in a state to play will be the boys who are out there."

Both Tom Cairney and Josh Onomah were missing for the Reading game, with the former still having issues with an ongoing calf problem suffered against Stoke City, and both are expected to be missing for this upcoming clash.

Parker also provided a fresh update on Harrison Reed and Steven Sessegnon, with the pair likely to be missing from the squad.

"Harrison Reed obviously came off the other day struggling with an injury, Steven Sessegnon's picked up another slight issue with his groin," he said.

It will be the first meeting between Fulham and Aston Villa since the 2018 play-off final at Wembley.

The Verdict

The number of injuries to the current squad may limit Scott Parker's ability to rotate the side to freshen things up, but the manager is likely to make a couple of changes for this one, as it will be Fulham's fourth game in nine days.

The Cottagers have not got past the third round of the FA Cup in the past two seasons, and will be looking to change that on Saturday.




https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/early-fulham-team-news-emerges-ahead-of-fa-cup-clash-with-aston-villa/

[WhiteJC]

Parker Admits His Team Lack Desire And The Hunger For Success, But Who's To Blame?

Fulham boss Scott Parker openly admitted after his team suffered yet another home defeat by Reading when he said, as reported by The BBC

"If you want to be successful in this division, there's something you need that you can't measure, and it comes from within. At times this year, I don't think we've had that, and ultimately we need to change that".

This response followed another lethargic display from a squad that most managers would feel envious about not having in the Championship. Five strikers were out on the field in the second half, yet Fulham could only score once from a nice piece of individual skill from substitute Cavaleiro after 61 minutes and being 2-0 down.

Match after match, Fulham's defence gives their opponents easy goals, such as both scored by Reading today. Before the away side's first attack on 14 minutes, Fulham were in total control but lacked the killer instinct in front of goal. They should have netted three times before Reading took the lead, but apart from an excellent triple save from their goalkeeper, the home side really never looked capable of scoring.

It only took three minutes of the restart when Charlie Adam put the game beyond the Cottagers with a simple tap in following another statuesque piece of defending by Christie and Ream. Fulham hardly deserved their goal from Cavaleiro, as it looked like the New Year's celebrations took its toll on the whole team.

They made Reading look a much better side than they are, as the visitors' confidence grew throughout the second period, probably wondering how their opponents were a bit of a pushover.

Scott Parker's after-match comments about his team has to be guided back to himself. It is the manager's job to ensure his players are giving 100% each and every game. Fulham lacked any cohesion today. Nobody out on the field taking any responsibility. Defenders, midfielders and strikers all out of touch, playing as if there is nothing to play for. Slow build- ups, constant side to side and backward passing once again.

Fulham definitely have the squad of players good enough to be in the mix with Leeds and West Brom. The team just lack the leadership, commitment and tactical knowledge from their manager. Many may argue that Parker (in his first full season as a boss), has actually done well so far, getting his team into a top-six position. I, however, believe any experienced manager, given this squad of players could have achieved just as much, but there are many that would have had this team currently leading the pack.

Should the Khan family allow Scott Parker to continue for the rest of the season? This at best would see Fulham in the play-offs, but maybe not. Or is it time for him to stand down as manager, and become assistant to a more experienced and proven boss? We could still catch the top two if we acted quickly.



https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/parker-admits-his-team-lack-desire-and-the-hunger-for-success-but-whos-to-blame/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham v Aston Villa: Wembley winners go head-to-head

It is no knock on the FA Cup to state there is considerably less at stake for Villa tomorrow than the last time they faced Fulham.


Fulham's Dennis Odoi challenges Aston Villa's Jack Grealish

The third round tie at Craven Cottage is the first time the clubs have met since the 2018 Championship play-off final, an occasion which already ranks among the more significant in Villa's history, writes Matt Maher.

Defeat at Wembley, to Tom Cairney's first-half goal, plunged them into the financial crisis which brought about the end of Tony Xia's tenure of ownership and the arrival of billionaire custodians in the shape of Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens.

It was the result which set in motion a series of events which, for a while, looked set to end in disaster yet ultimately saw them win promotion back to the Premier League 12 months later.

The importance of now maintaining top-flight status explains why Dean Smith will name a much-changed line-up tomorrow.

Likewise Fulham, relegated after just one season back in the Premier League, are also expected to rest key men, with the chief focus of their head coach Scott Parker very much the battle at the top of the Championship.

There is a delicious irony in Villa facing the Cottagers this season.

Since spending £127million rebuilding their squad last summer, they have continually been accused of 'doing a Fulham' after the London club's own ill-fated £100million shopping spree following promotion a year previously.

The comparison has always been a lazy one.

While Fulham opted to take apart a team which had arguably been the best in the Championship over the final months of the 2017/18 campaign, a restructure was always on the cards at Villa, no matter which division they were playing in.

Still, the New Year's Day win at Burnley has significantly lifted the mood and means there is considerably less pressure on Smith than there might have been ahead of two consecutive cup ties, with the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final at Leicester to come next Wednesday.

Villa have been knocked out of the FA Cup at the third round stage in each of the past three seasons and while the competition might not be a priority, this is still a match Smith will be keen to win.

The head coach's biggest decision might revolve over who to play in goal.

Under normal circumstances, Orjan Nyland would have been the obvious choice, but with Tom Heaton and Jed Steer now out injured, the Norwegian international is Villa's No.1 and may not be risked.

That might mean a first outing since last February for Lovre Kalinic, a £7million signing last January who rapidly found himself relegated to fourth choice.

Club captain James Chester and Bjorn Engels could start in defence, with Smith likely to again trial the three at the back system which worked to great effect at Burnley.

"It was a brave decision (to switch system) but I think we have the players to suit it," said Tyrone Mings. "We, as players, need to be adaptable and are able to switch systems."



https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/aston-villa/2020/01/03/fulham-v-aston-villa-wembley-winners-go-head-to-head/

[Bill2]

Parker fumes at ref, Knockaert abuse and promotion chants - Reading FC moments missed after Fulham victory

Some of the bits you might not have seen from Royals' New Year's Day clash at Craven Cottage

Reading produced another clinical display to record their fourth successive Championship win on Wednesday.

The 2-1 New Year's Day victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage has put them in a strong position going into the second half of the season.

Goals by John Swift and Charlie Adam proved the difference and while Whites sub Ivan Cavaleiro netted for the hosts shortly after coming on, they were unable to break down a resolute Royals backline.

Here are five things you may have missed from the game.
Parker fumes at referee

It proved a frustrating afternoon for Scott Parker and his Fulham side who have been plagued with inconsistency this term.

His frustration boiled over at the end of the first half as the sides headed back towards the changing room.

Parker was unhappy with referee Geoff Eltringham's decision not to give his side a penalty in the closing minutes of the half for a challenge in the box on striker Aleksander Mitrovic.

The former West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder tried to get his point across to the official and was visibly livid about the call.

A few other Fulham players had some choice words too as they trudged off and clearly Reading's gameplan had got on the wrong side of them.
Knockaert abuse

Fulham midfielder Anthony Knockaert was on the end of quite a bit of abuse by Reading fans, especially in the first half as the Whites played towards the stand for away supporters.

The Frenchman copped plenty of boos and unsavoury chants - none of which can be printed here(!) - every time he was on the ball or near the fans.

There was a tense moment when Reading were awarded a goal kick after the ball rolled out in the corner and one fan then threw the ball in to him.

Knockaert then turned around and gave the supporters a stern look to express his displeasure with him. Chants of 'he's going to cry in a minute' then rung out as the fans continued to wind him up.

In the end, the midfielder was unable to silence them and the loyal Royals had the last laugh.
A wicked deflection

Reading's first goal was a carbon copy of the opening goal at Preston on Sunday.

Tyler Blackett went on the overlap and picked out Swift with a low cross from the byline. Swift then opened his body up to turn the ball home first time.

It was the end of a lovely team move although there was a huge chunk of fortune for Swift as his effort was deflected into the corner of the net by Fulham defender Tim Ream.

In real time very few people noticed it, but replays clearly show Reading got extremely lucky and had the ball not hit Ream, it would have gone into the arms of the goalkeeper, stayed 0-0 and who knows what the end result could have been.

After years of disappointment, few would begrudge Royals some good fortune like this from time to time.
Gunter's landmark appearance

It was a memorable day for Reading defender Chris Gunter who made his 300th appearance for the club.

The Welshman, who is enjoying an impressive run in the side following the injury to Andy Yiadom, is in his eighth season at the club.

He is the club's joint longest serving player along with Garath McCleary and has shown tremendous professionalism in recent months.

Having been left out in the cold by Jose Gomes, he has slotted back into the senior set-up seamlessly and has become a key part of a side which is now lost just once in eight matches.

This milestone appearance could not have gone much better for him.
Promotion chants

It was a fantastic away day for Reading supporters who packed out the away end.

They were having a whale of a time and who could blame them - Royals have now won four matches in a row (in the space of just 12 days) and are only five points off the play-off places.

Could this be the year? There is still a long way to go, but chants like 'Up the Football League we go' and 'The Royals are going up' show the belief is creeping back in.

Suffering just three defeats in 14 games shows this side means. They are in a hurry to climb the table and want to catch up the rest who are pushing for a top six spot.

On recent form, Reading are going to take some stopping.



https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/parker-fumes-ref-knockaert-abuse-17499713

Who writes this rubbish.
Reading were terrible and won due to a huge slice of luck as was shown by the keeper making 3 great saves after 6 minutes then to get a deflection off Tim Ream to take the ball away from Marek Rodak who had the very soft shot covered.
Reading were "clinical", they only had 3 shots on target the entire game and while they did score twice, we hit the post twice the bar once and their keeper had his game of the season.
But to be fair what they did do was defend like lions, throwing themselves in to the tackle and them hoofing the ball away, hardly promotion football and winning most of the 50/50 tackles.
Had we scored first we would have won by a bigger margin than we did at their place.
They are not promotion material and if by some miracle they do go up with that squad they will come straight back down, as we did.