Saturday Fulham Stuff - 04/01/20...

[WhiteJC]

Cottage Talk: The Current State Of Fulham

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

In this episode, Emilio Di Nello and Scott Tanfield shared their thoughts on Fulham's season so far as this is our mid-season review. During this show, they gave their views on the players, Scott Parker and Tony Khan. At the end of the show, the guys gave their thoughts on the results of the Cottage Talk polls that involve Scott Parker.


Lastly you can listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2020/1/3/21048909/cottage-talk-the-current-state-of-fulham

[WhiteJC]

Oliver Norwood: The long road to the top

On Boxing Day, Oliver Norwood scored his first Premier League goal. A needless Will Hughes trip on George Baldock handed the Northern Irish midfielder the opportunity to convert from the spot against Watford – he kept his nerve and slotted it into the corner like a man who has done so many times before.

However, Norwood, despite gaining three consecutive promotions to the Premier League, is playing in his first ever top flight campaign. At Brighton and then Fulham, he was considered surplus to requirements once a place at the top table was earned. The former Manchester United academy prospect was forced to take an extremely circuitous route back to the top – now he sits above Brighton and within touching distance of Ole Gunnar Solskjær's side, and has become an integral part of Sheffield United's unlikely push for European football.

His story starts at Moss Lane, then-home of Manchester United's development sides. He was a regular in 2009, featuring in a number of important clashes: the 20-year-old tasted defeat on penalties at the hands of Liverpool in the Lancashire Senior Cup, with Ritchie De Laet missing the decisive spot kick that day. However, he went on to triumph in the 2009/10 Premier Reserve League North.

Then just 19, he was handed his first full cap for Northern Ireland against Montenegro. The national side moved to poach him after he had featured for England at earlier youth levels – he has since credited Jonny Evans and his brother Corry with 'tapping him up'. Oddly enough, he did not taste senior club football for another month, at which point he went on an emergency loan to Carlisle in September of the 2010/11 season.

He made his debut against Brighton, a fellow League One side at the time. He played well in a goalless draw against his future club, and from that point on was a mainstay in the team for the duration of his time with Carlisle. Indeed, the club liked him so much that they extended the loan for another month beyond the original agreement – but the day after this was announced Norwood suffered a thigh injury that forced him to return to his parent side.

He stayed in the Manchester United setup until the start of the next season, when he ventured out on loan again: this time to Scunthorpe United. It was here that he netted his first competitive goal – in a strange twist of fate, it came against another club that he would go on to play for. He struck against Huddersfield Town in a meeting between the two sides in the third tier. He impressed again; assistant manager Chris Brass confirmed a desire to extend the loan beyond January, but ultimately it was decided that Norwood had outgrown League One.

He was thrust into a Championship relegation battle on January deadline day. Coventry City had been in the second tier for 11 consecutive seasons, but they were rock bottom when the midfielder arrived. He gave a good personal account, scoring a dramatic 95th minute equaliser away at Cardiff before securing victory against fellow strugglers Portsmouth, but he ultimately could not prevent Coventry from going down in 23rd place, level on points with 22nd but still eight points adrift of safety.

This was enough to give Norwood a taste for Championship football. He had enjoyed being a regular starter, and took the brave step of rejecting a new contract at Manchester United and making a permanent move elsewhere. He told Talksport at the time: "I want to play every week like I was this season in the Championship. It's been the hardest decision in my life for me to make but there comes a time when you have to be realistic."

There was interest in securing his services from a number of clubs, with Barnsley getting as far as agreeing compensation with Ferguson's United, but in the end it was newly-promoted Huddersfield who signed him.

The Terriers had gained promotion in the most dramatic of fashions. Norwood's goal against them in the 2-2 draw while at Scunthorpe had not prevented them reaching the playoffs, where they eventually triumphed 8-7 on penalties against Sheffield United after every single player had taken a spot kick. The midfielder may therefore have been bracing himself for another relegation battle, but despite a late scare Huddersfield finished 19th, having only twice dropped into the bottom three.

Norwood chipped in with three goals, but more importantly cemented himself as a mainstay in the side. He started 37 league matches, coming on as a substitute in a further two: his decision to leave for more regular action had paid off. This carried through into the next campaign. Huddersfield, now an established Championship side, produced another solid but unspectacular season, culminating in a 17th-place finish. Norwood played the vast majority of games once more, and doubled his goal tally.

By all accounts, it was a well-rounded and effective spell for Norwood, yet still there were some doubts among Huddersfield fans. There was a lingering sense that he was not particularly exciting, not the sort of player around whom an ambitious club builds: this harsh assessment, essentially baseless though it was, is one Norwood would have to get used to over the coming seasons.

The Terriers shipped him off to Reading for a rumoured fee of just over £1 million at the start of the 2014/15 season. He picked up where he left off, albeit with a new penchant for long-range scorchers in his locker. His first two goals came against Cardiff and Rotherham respectively, the first being a free-kick which sparked a 2-1 comeback FA Cup victory and the second flying in from 25 yards out. This contributed to Championship safety as well as a remarkable run to the semi-final of the cup.

The Royals came close to repeating the trick in the next campaign, this time falling at the quarter-final stage in the FA Cup. They also secured safety once more, slightly improving on their last finish to end the season in 17th – just as at Huddersfield, Norwood's contributions tended to be underestimated as he kept things ticking over in the middle. His long-shot party trick did at least gain him some of the recognition he deserved: Reading fans still remember his remarkable goal against Ipswich Town in a 5-1 victory, a strike that saw one supporter, Charlie Pridmore, dub him 'Norwoodinho'.

Perhaps with a more exotic-sounding name he might not have been so routinely underestimated. He was on the move once again for the start of 2016/17, thus kickstarting his run of three consecutive Championship promotions. The first came with Brighton. Just as at all his previous clubs, he quickly became an integral cog: this time there were no goals, but the fact he amassed 33 appearances speaks volumes. He was quietly contributing, providing a heartbeat to a side that went on to earn promotion to the Premier League as runners-up – second only to an impressive Newcastle team managed by Rafa Benitez.

It was perhaps surprising, then, when manager Chris Hughton opted to let him go out on loan. He signed for Fulham in the summer, this time featuring in 36 league games including the playoff final triumph over Aston Villa. Norwood was introduced directly after Fulham were reduced to ten men, helping to shore up the midfield and secure the vital win that brought the prize of a place in the Premier League. He is still remembered there for his crucial last-ditch challenge on Conor Hourihane.

This was typical of his season, where he got through a lot of defensive work while also offering a threat going the other way. Operating in a slightly freer role than at Brighton, he contributed five goals for the Cottagers, including a last-minute winner from the spot against Middlesbrough. A player who could be trusted defensively while also getting forward well, Norwood had built up a good reputation, consistent across all of his clubs, and was understandably eager to extend his stay with Fulham into the Premier League.

Manager Slaviša Jokanović had attempted to secure his services permanently in January, but Brighton were reluctant to let him go without first knowing which division they would be playing in during 2018/19. With their status secured, they were happy to sell – but Fulham were embarking on a spending spree with their new-found cash, one which hindsight has shown to be disastrous. Norwood was overlooked, and so he once again found himself leaving on loan: this time to Sheffield United.

Fan blog 'Roy's View From' compiled an enlightening set of quotes from fans of Brighton and Fulham upon Norwood's arrival. One Seagulls supporter said: "Excellent squad player in the Championship, the step up maybe one too far." A Fulham fan echoed this, calling him a 'very decent Championship midfielder'. The sentiment was clear: for whatever reason, the received wisdom was that Norwood had found his level in the second tier. At the Blades, he finally proved everyone wrong.

His move was fixed as a loan until January, at which point it would become permanent. Nobody at Bramall Lane was regretting this as the new year came around: he had helped his new club to third in the league, in hot pursuit of Leeds and Norwich. He played all but three games over the course of a season that eventually culminated in automatic promotion – the model of consistency, he followed his usual modest attacking pattern by contributing three goals. However, unlike in previous campaigns, this time he got the recognition he deserved. He was named in the Championship Team of the Season for his efforts: on this occasion, at last, there was absolutely no chance his club would be letting him go before the start of the Premier League campaign.

Chris Wilder stuck by Norwood, not only keeping him as part of the squad but making him a lynchpin of the team currently taking the top flight by storm. Although Billy Sharp is still the official club captain, Norwood has been entrusted with the armband in the majority of games this season.

While he had to wait until the 26th December for his first goal, a moment he will undoubtedly have dreamed about from his first day in Manchester United's academy as a 7-year-old, he has been pivotal for Sheffield United throughout the season so far. He has played all 21 matches, driving them to within two points of 5th-placed Manchester United just beyond the halfway stage.

His numbers of 47 tackles, 29 interceptions and 169 recoveries, alongside over 1100 passes, paint a picture of an all-round midfielder that keeps the team ticking while providing vital cover. This is particularly important in Wilder's setup: fellow midfielders John Fleck and John Lundstram have a great deal of freedom to push forward, and while there is a bank of five behind Norwood on paper, these defenders often push beyond him.

The much-discussed 'overlapping centre-backs' are less prominent than in the Championship, an inevitable by-product of competing with sides against whom United cannot easily dominate possession, but it is still far from uncommon to see Jack O'Connell and Chris Basham advancing ahead of Norwood to provide numbers in midfield. This would not be possible without the Northern Irishman providing such a solid base: he is the rock on which the system is built, and for the first time in his career his importance is fully recognised by his manager and the fans.

Safety was the target this season, but Sheffield United are redefining what is possible. It is notable that they are doing so without lavish spending: the riches of the Premier League can be alluring, but the Blades have learned from the mistakes of Fulham before them. There is a lot to be said for tried and tested – flashy new names may turn out well, but Fulham could only wave to Norwood on their way back down after ditching him for Jean Michel Seri.

It took a very long time for him to reach this point, but now Ollie Norwood has returned to the top of English football he looks very much at home.



https://footyanalyst.com/oliver-norwood-the-long-road-to-the-top/

[WhiteJC]

Scott's FA Cup Memories

The FA Cup is a competition close to Scott Parker's heart, after he grew up watching the competition religiously.

As is case for many, the day of the Final was an event in itself for Parker, who leads a team into an FA Cup match as boss for the first time this weekend.

"I was brought up on this competition as a young boy, where FA Cup Final day was a whole day experience for me," he said.

"You get up in the morning and sit in front of the TV until you see the trophy lifted by one of the teams.

"From them walking out the hotel to getting on the team bus, I have massive memories of this competition.

"The history of the cup for me, and what it represents, is probably a lot different to maybe my sons or the younger generations today, because of the way it's maybe been diluted a bit at times. But I think over the last few years it seems to have picked up again.

"As a coach, this is my first time managing in the FA Cup, so I'm looking forward to it. But any game I'm looking forward to, trying to win and get positive performances, so Saturday will be no different."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/04/scott-parker-fa-cup-memories

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa fans travelling to FA Cup fixture against Fulham warned of road closure after serious crash

Aston Villa fans travelling to London for the FA Cup fixture against Fulham have been warned of a road closure following a serious crash.

Highways England has reported the M1 in Bedfordshire is currently closed in both directions between junction 13 for Milton Keynes and junction 12 for Flitwick.

This is due to a 'serious multiple vehicle collision'.

"Bedfordshire Police will be conducting collision investigations due to the seriousness of the incident," says the Highways England website.

"The road is likely to remain closed throughout the morning."

On social media, highways teams recommended those driving from the direction of Birmingham should instead use the M40.

They have also asked that vehicles caught up in the traffic do not move unless instructed to do so by officers.




https://www.expressandstar.com/news/transport/2020/01/04/aston-villa-fans-travelling-to-fa-cup-fixture-against-fulham-warned-of-road-closure-after-serious-crash/

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa's predicted XI to face Fulham in the FA Cup

Speaking ahead of Aston Villa's FA Cup tie against Fulham, Dean Smith offered an indication that he could make multiple changes to his team.

That comes from his statement, per Birmingham Mail, in which he claims the Premier League is the priority before going on to say "hopefully the quality of the squad can carry us through."

With the team already having a Carabao Cup semi-final to contest, while also fighting for their place in the league, it may be wise for Smith to avoid overworking too many players – especially after Tom Heaton and Wesley were confirmed to be out for the rest of the season.

Considering these factors, here is FFC's predicted XI for their FA Cup game against Fulham, which features nine changes from the 2-1 victory over Burnley.

The first change is forced due to Heaton's aforementioned injury and Smith could opt to use Lovre Kalinic, considering Orjan Nyland will likely be playing in the league moving forward.

James Chester impressed during Villa's last cup game, the 5-0 win against Liverpool, and could come back into the side again.

He is joined in the backline by Bjorn Engles, who has not featured in any of Villa's last three league games, only making the bench for one of those.

Both of the players keeping their place in the side from the Burnley win are on the left, with Neil Taylor and Kortney Hause both keeping their place here. The first of those does so with Matt Targett out, while Smith may play Hause to afford Tyrone Mings more rest.

Conor Hourihane and Henri Lansbury have played an integral part in Villa's Carabao Cup run, recording a combined seven appearances, four goals and five assists, so the hope will be that they can play a similar role in the FA Cup.

Ahmed Elmohamady was rested against Burnley, so he could come in for this game as a fresh presence on the right.

Jota and Anwar El Ghazi both come into the team having been left out of the side that faced Burnley, allowing Trezeguet and Jack Grealish to get some rest.

Smith's hands are tied with the striker position following Wesley's injury, so Jonathan Kodjia seems almost certain to start.



https://www.footballfancast.com/premier-league/aston-villa/villans-predicted-xi-fa-cup

[WhiteJC]

FA Cup third-round giant killing ratings: Newcastle, West Ham and Aston Villa are in danger... but what about the rest of the Premier League clubs in action against lower-league opposition?

    The FA Cup returns this weekend with the third-round set to take place
    There are only two all-Premier League ties taking place from January 4-6
    It means 16 top-flight clubs will take on lower-league opponents

The Christmas decorations are being taken down and New Year's Resolutions are already being broken.

And as we head into the first weekend of January, the third-round of the FA Cup is now upon us.

After a festive flurry of football, the Premier League now takes a backseat as the world's oldest cup competition comes into view.


The FA Cup returns this weekend and there are banana skins aplenty for Premier League sides

With only two all-Premier League ties in this round, the chance for some good old-fashioned giant killing is ripe.

Newcastle, Watford and Bournemouth may be among those looking over those shoulder as they face Rochdale, Tranmere and Luton.

Tottenham and Arsenal could also find themselves in trouble against Championship opposition. Sportsmail take a look at all the 16 Premier League teams facing lower-league opposition and rate the chances of an upset...

Rochdale v Newcastle

It's been 14 years since Newcastle went beyond the fourth-round of the FA Cup, when they reached the quarter-finals in 2006.

It's been utter misery in this competition for Magpies supporters ever since, and even under Rafa Benitez they were unable to buck the trend.

But in the four years before the Spaniard arrived, Newcastle were knocked out at the first time of asking every single time.

Steve Bruce has high-flying League One outfit Rochdale to contend with in one of Saturday's early games. And with the FA Cup low down on Mike Ashley's list of priorities, don't be surprised to see Newcastle bow out in early January once again.

Giant Killing Rating - 4/5

Burnley v Peterborough

A miserable Christmas for Sean Dyche has seen the Clarets slip down to 15th in the Premier League and just four points from safety.

Maintaining their top-flight status will be paramount, and so the FA Cup will slip down their list too.

Peterborough are sixth in League One, but they too have suffered a miserable Christmas and have won just one in their last five to slip down the table.

But if, as expected, Dyche rings the changes, The Posh will be hopeful of springing a surprise.

Giant Killing Rating - 3/5

Brighton v Sheffield Wednesday

Last year's semi-finalists are a much-changed team under Graham Potter, but Brighton will still be feeling confident of another cup run.

Last year's came at the expense of their league form, and ended up costing Chris Hughton his job. Though they are still in danger this year, the feeling around the club is one of excitement instead of anxiety.

Sheffield Wednesday have history in the cup, but it is now over 20 years since they made the last eight. They are finding their feet under Garry Monk and challenging for the Championship play-offs. They may see this fixture as a free hit and give it everything.

Giant Killing Rating - 3/5

Preston v Norwich

Norwich are looking increasingly adrift at the bottom of the Premier League after Watford's recent charge under new manager Nigel Pearson.

With relegation back to the Championship looking likely now, will Daniel Farke decide to focus some attention on a cup run in order to build some kind of momentum?

They arguably face the toughest task of any top-flight side, with a trip to Deepdale. Preston have slipped slightly in recent weeks, but Alex Neil has cultivated a well-organised side and will be desperate to get one over his former side.

Giant Killing Rating - 4/5

Watford v Tranmere

The Hornets are flying with three wins in their last four since the arrival of Nigel Pearson, but they are still two points off safety.

Last year's run to the FA Cup final ended in ignominy, a 6-0 defeat by Manchester City that proved the beginning of the end for Javi Gracia and the hangover has lasted arguably half a season.

Pearson will have no interest in a long run in the cups this season as he targets survival and consolidating his new job. And with opponents Tranmere languishing in the League One relegation zone, he can feel pretty content at the prospect of making a raft of changes.

Giant Killing Rating - 2/5

Fulham v Aston Villa

A first meeting between these two since the 2018 Championship play-off final sees the roles fully reversed. Fulham went down at the first attempt, and Villa recovered to secure promotion back to the Premier League last May.

They could well swap places again come the end of this campaign. Fulham are now riding high under Scott Parker and occupy fifth place in the Championship, while Villa sit one point above the Premier League drop zone.

Jack Grealish has been in superb form, but Dean Smith will surely not want to risk his star man in the FA Cup. Both sides are likely to make changes, and Craven Cottage could prove a decisive factor in which way this swings.

Giant Killing Rating - 4/5

Southampton v Huddersfield

Ralph Hassenhutl has enjoyed an upturn in form over the Christmas period, masterminding three wins out of Southampton's last four to lift the Saints to the dizzying heights of 12th in the table.

As such, fans may hope that the Austrian sees the FA Cup as a bonus ball. The likelihood is quite different, however. Danny Ings, with nine goals in his last 10, will surely be rested and so too a host of other first-team stars.

For the visitors, Huddersfield, there is even less priority on this game. The arrival of Danny Cowley hasn't stopped the rut, and it is turning a long, difficult season at the John Smith's Stadium.

Back-to-back relegations is well on the cards, and he will surely look to make sweeping changes.

Giant Killing Rating - 2/5

Bournemouth v Luton

It's been three successive third-round knockouts for Eddie Howe and Bournemouth. We could be looking at a fourth this weekend.

The Cherries are in rotten form and have slipped into the relegation zone. Injury problems are mounting and key men are well out of form.

Changes will surely be made, and with the bottom club in the Championship in town then perhaps it is the perfect time to make them.

Giant Killing Rating - 3/5

Leicester v Wigan

A difficult festive schedule ended well for Brendan Rodgers as he was able to show off his squad's strength in depth to grind out victories over West Ham and Newcastle.

You can be sure that the Leicester boss will once again seek to shuffle his pack with the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final with Aston Villa following in midweek.

Despite the expected changes, Leicester have far too much in reserve to be concerned by a Wigan side battling against relegation from the Championship.

Giant Killing Rating - 1/5

Manchester City v Port Vale

The cup holders have been handed a plumb tie in the start of their defence, with mid-table League Two side Port Vale the visitors on Saturday evening.

Pep Guardiola will make a host of changes, Phil Foden will get his game, and Manchester City will score at least five goals.

It's just what they do in these kind of games.

Giant Killing Rating - 1/5

Middlesbrough v Tottenham

It's the Jonathan Woodgate derby! (Said no one).

Woodgate was under pressure on Tyneside when the draw was made and it was revealed he would be facing one of his old sides, while Jose Mourinho was riding the crest of a wave after replacing Mauricio Pochettino.

Fast forward a month and Boro have won their last four games to steer themselves away from the Championship trap door. Spurs meanwhile have stumbled in their pursuit of the top four, winning just one of their last four and looking fragile on the road.

Spurs should still go through, with Mourinho notoriously keen on getting a trophy in the cabinet early doors. He could be manager to end Spurs' long wait for an FA Cup - but he won't have it all his own way at the Riverside.

Giant Killer Rating - 3/5

Crystal Palace v Derby

Palace have enjoyed two decent cup runs in recent years, reaching the final in 2016 and the quarters in 2019.

Sitting ninth in the table and eight points above the bottom three, Roy Hodgson should be looking at this competition as a big chance. But after a festive period that has produced mixed results he may want to refresh his charges.

Derby were cup specialists last season, beating Manchester United in the Carabao and Southampton at this stage of the FA Cup. But this is a very different side under Philippe Cocu, besieged by off-field problems and glancing nervously over their shoulders in the league.

Palace should have too much for a Derby side with higher priorities, despite the recent arrival of Wayne Rooney.

Giant Killer Rating - 2/5

Chelsea v Nottingham Forest

It's been 22 years since Chelsea failed to make the fourth-round of the FA Cup, and Nottingham Forest are unlikely to change that run.

Frank Lampard will rotate his side after a busy festive calendar, but that has been the case almost all season with a heavy emphasis on youth.

Forest are riding high in the Championship and ensconced in the play-offs, but a trip to Stamford Bridge may prove a bridge too far.

Giant Killer Rating - 2/5

Gillingham v West Ham

A week ago you would be forgiven for thinking Gillingham, 11th in League One, could enter this game as favourites.

Steve Evans certainly fancied his chances - when hasn't he? - but order appears to have been restored at West Ham by the arrival of David Moyes.

But with the Hammers focusing on Premier League survival he will likely want a closer look at his squad coming into this game.

One thumping win does not undo a disappointing few months, and the Hammers will remain vulnerable and could be there for the taking.

Giant Killer Rating - 4/5

Sheffield United v Fylde

Chris Wilder's Blades have been the surprise package of the season and have everything to lose when non-league Fylde come to Bramall Lane on Sunday.

After facing Manchester City and Liverpool back-to-back, Sheffield United look likely to name a much-changed side with National League minnows in town.

Fylde have nothing to lose and, despite sitting in the bottom four, simply have to give it everything. When will they next test their mettle against a Premier League side?

Giant Killer Rating - 2/5

Arsenal v Leeds

Marcelo Bielsa will be licking his lips at getting to test his exciting Leeds side against Premier League opposition for the first time.

Leeds are riding high at the top of the Championship and appear destined to finally end their 16-year exodus from the English top-flight. Bielsa is a managerial nomad, and comes up against a novice in Mikel Arteta, but one who is already starting to have an influence on Arsenal.

A full crowd, under the lights of the Emirates and live on BBC One. This has all the makings of a cup classic.

Giant Killer Rating - 4/5



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7846025/FA-Cup-giant-killing-ratings-Newcastle-West-Ham-Aston-Villa-danger.html

[Southcoastffc]

Is the Daily Mail implying that if we beat Villa we'll be 'Giant Killers'?   Reinforces my practice of not reading that paper/web site.

[Sting of the North]

3 transfer priorities Fulham need to sort this month

...Snip...

Now with the January transfer window open, it gives Parker a chance to reassess his squad and bolster where he feels appropriate.

There'll also be one or two players looking for the door, and here we take a look at three transfer priorities that Fulham need to sort this month:

Aleksandar Mitrovic
...snip...

Aston Villa look the likeliest to make a move, whilst Serie A side Genoa have also shown an interest.

It's something that Fulham need to put to bed sooner rather than later – his attitude on the pitch has looked slightly off in the last few games, as though he's falling out of love with the club and their current trajectory.

...snip...

Centre-back cover
...snip...

A right-back by trade, Odoi didn't have the best game in the heart of defence. Mawson has also come under some stern criticism from fans this season, and Parker may look for another number in that position this month.

Ream has been Fulham's best defender so far this season, but if he were to be injured then Fulham would be in deep trouble.

Making loan-deals permanent
Some of Fulham's best players this season have been their loan-players, and Parker may look to make some of those moves permanent this month.

...snip...

None of them would be cheap but it'd be good business by Fulham, and would ease the loss of all their loan-players returning to their respective parent clubs in the summer.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-transfer-priorities-fulham-need-to-sort-this-month/

Sometimes you seriously wonder whether the people making up this stuff are even sober. In any case, they have surely not even spent 5 minutes googling in order to get anything correct.

Mitro has looked how he has always looked from time to time, which is grumpy and a bit jaded. Nothing new there, and likely because the games are coming thick and fast with FFC not being able to gain any sort of momentum while the constant fouling on Mitro himself is ignored be refs 90 % of the time. It likely will keep happening from time to time, just as it does with almost all players. He will also not go to Genoa or Villa, because why on earth would he at this point in his career. Surely he will either stay where he is comfortable, or go to a good club. Not a mediocre Seria A club (who can likely not increase his wages even), nor a PL relegation candidate.

As for centre backs, they seem to ignore that Hector is coming in already. They also pretend that Odoi had a bad game last time out, which shows that they didn't see the game (which is understandable) but also didn't even bother to read up on it (which is not understandable). As far as I have seen, the consensus is that Odoi was the least of our problem defensively against Reading.

As for the loanees, most (all) of them have options to go permanent at seasons end depending on various factors. It would make very little sense to do something at this point, unless we needed more loan spots.

The article is absolutely spot off.

[Sting of the North]

Is the Daily Mail implying that if we beat Villa we'll be 'Giant Killers'?   Reinforces my practice of not reading that paper/web site.

Agree that this would be hilarious, if they weren't serious. Now it's just sad.

[bobby01]

3 transfer priorities Fulham need to sort this month

...Snip...

Now with the January transfer window open, it gives Parker a chance to reassess his squad and bolster where he feels appropriate.

There'll also be one or two players looking for the door, and here we take a look at three transfer priorities that Fulham need to sort this month:

Aleksandar Mitrovic
...snip...

Aston Villa look the likeliest to make a move, whilst Serie A side Genoa have also shown an interest.

It's something that Fulham need to put to bed sooner rather than later – his attitude on the pitch has looked slightly off in the last few games, as though he's falling out of love with the club and their current trajectory.

...snip...

Centre-back cover
...snip...

A right-back by trade, Odoi didn't have the best game in the heart of defence. Mawson has also come under some stern criticism from fans this season, and Parker may look for another number in that position this month.

Ream has been Fulham's best defender so far this season, but if he were to be injured then Fulham would be in deep trouble.

Making loan-deals permanent
Some of Fulham's best players this season have been their loan-players, and Parker may look to make some of those moves permanent this month.

...snip...

None of them would be cheap but it'd be good business by Fulham, and would ease the loss of all their loan-players returning to their respective parent clubs in the summer.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/3-transfer-priorities-fulham-need-to-sort-this-month/

Sometimes you seriously wonder whether the people making up this stuff are even sober. In any case, they have surely not even spent 5 minutes googling in order to get anything correct.

Mitro has looked how he has always looked from time to time, which is grumpy and a bit jaded. Nothing new there, and likely because the games are coming thick and fast with FFC not being able to gain any sort of momentum while the constant fouling on Mitro himself is ignored be refs 90 % of the time. It likely will keep happening from time to time, just as it does with almost all players. He will also not go to Genoa or Villa, because why on earth would he at this point in his career. Surely he will either stay where he is comfortable, or go to a good club. Not a mediocre Seria A club (who can likely not increase his wages even), nor a PL relegation candidate.

As for centre backs, they seem to ignore that Hector is coming in already. They also pretend that Odoi had a bad game last time out, which shows that they didn't see the game (which is understandable) but also didn't even bother to read up on it (which is not understandable). As far as I have seen, the consensus is that Odoi was the least of our problem defensively against Reading.

As for the loanees, most (all) of them have options to go permanent at seasons end depending on various factors. It would make very little sense to do something at this point, unless we needed more loan spots.

The article is absolutely spot off.

There is so much from this source that is so off. Considering that Charles Jones, not Charlie anymore, is a major Fulham supporting contributor, yes, the same Charlie (clickbait) Jones that spouted so much nonsense on here when we were in the PL then disappeared, who I doubt has rarely watched a game or been to the cottage, I am not surprised at their standard of reporting.

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Fulham ace shares motivated message following transfer completion

Fulham defender Michael Hector has confirmed he is finally available to feature for Scott Parker's side following the completion of his transfer from Chelsea this month.

It was first announced back in September that Fulham had agreed a deal to sign Hector from Chelsea – with the defender having failed to make an appearance for the Blues – and the opening of the January transfer window means he is now a Fulham player.

The timing of the transfer means the 27-year-old has only been able to train with the Craven Cottage outfit throughout the first half of the campaign, but he will now be aiming to make a contribution towards the club's Championship promotion push.

Hector has enjoyed loan spells with other Championship sides including Reading, Hull City and Sheffield Wednesday during his time as a Chelsea player, with this meaning he is set to add plenty of second-tier experience to Parker's back line.

The centre-back has now taken to Instagram to declare himself available for the Cottagers:

Hector made a total of 37 appearances during an impressive spell at Sheffield Wednesday last term, with the Millwall academy product playing a key role during the Owls' fine second half of the season.

The Verdict

This will give Fulham a massive boost as they enter the second half of the campaign, particularly seeing as the West London outfit have sometimes been let down by defensive errors during the season so far.

Hector arrives at Craven Cottage with a large breadth of experience in the Championship in particular, and he will surely not take him too long to become a regular in Parker's side.

Fulham need to develop more consistency during the rest of the season if they want to stand a chance of promotion from the Championship, and Hector's solidity at the back should certainly aid this.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-ace-shares-motivated-message-following-transfer-completion/

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M1 traffic causes travel problems for Villa fans heading to Fulham for FA Cup tie

Aston Villa fans heading to Fulham for their FA Cup third round clash have been warned to use alternative routes following a crash on the M1

A 'serious collision' on the M1 between two HGV lorries on Saturday morning has severely disrupted travel plans for FA Cup supporters.

The motorway is currently closed in both directions between Milton Keynes and Filtwick and is not expected to open until tonight or tomorrow.

With thousands of football fans travelling up and down the country today, Highways England has warned Aston Villa fans heading to Craven Cottage for their 3.01pm clash against Fulham to find alternative routes.

Highways England tweeted: "Are you travelling to today's @EmiratesFACup fixture between @FulhamFC and @AVFCOfficial?

"The #M1 is currently closed southbound between J13 #MiltonKeynes #Bedford and J12 #Flitwick due to a serious collision. If travelling from #Birmingham please use the #M40. #facup."

Diversion routes to re-join the M1 are clearly marked but drivers are urged to find alternative routes such as the A1, A14, M11 and M40.

Highways England tweeted: "M1 southbound J13 to J12, both carriageways remain closed and will do so for some time.

"Traffic is currently flowing well on the approach to both closures."

Highways England said "all trapped traffic" has been cleared from the scene of the smash.

Bedfordshire Police tweeted: "Emergency services are currently at the scene of a serious collision on the #southbound carriageway of the #M1.

"The road from J13 to J12 is currently closed and motorists are advised to seek an alternative route."

The force later added: "The #northbound carriageway of the #M1 has also now been closed from J12 to J13. We will update you as soon as we can."

Villa's kick-off with Fulham is being played at the unusual time of 3.01pm to raise awareness of mental health issues.

It's hoped that the initiative will raise awareness of the importance of looking after our mental health, with 60 seconds representing just the first step in the journey to improved wellbeing.

During the minute delay, fans will be encouraged to consider the positive impact 60 seconds can have on their own wellbeing or in supporting a friend or family member.



https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/m1-traffic-causes-travel-problems-21211640

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Fulham skipper's verdict on Aston Villa's summer of spending

Fulham v Aston Villa preview | Villa are at Craven Cottage this afternoon as attentions turn from their Premier League survival to FA Cup progress – and Fulham stand in their way

Fulham captain Tom Cairney knows full well how tough it can be to keep your side in the Premier League after spending big.

The Whites were promoted to the top flight in 2018 and spent more than £100m that summer to try and establish themselves. It didn't work and they suffered relegation at the end of the season.

Following promotion via the Championship play-off final this summer, Aston Villa also spent more than £100m on their return to the big time.

Dean Smith's men are in a relegation battle at present, but lifted themselves out of the bottom three on New Year's Day with a crucial 2-1 win away to Burnley.

They now turn their attentions to the FA Cup and a game against Fulham at Craven Cottage.

"Villa have had a mixed season," Cairney told Fulham's match-day programme.

"They spent a hell of a lot of money in the summer after winning promotion and they don't want to be where they are right now after that outlay but, as we found out, it's tough.

"They've got quality players and it will be a tough game, but their main focus will be on surviving in the Premier League."

Villa's last meeting with Fulham is one Cairney remembers fondly – scoring in the 1-0 play-off final clash at Wembley.

"It's the first time we've played Villa since the play-off final and what was the highlight of my time in football to date, scoring the winner at Wembley," Cairney said.

"You don't get many days like that in your career, if any, and it's one that will live with me forever."



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-fulham-tom-cairney-17512395

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Aston Villa team news v Fulham: Dean Smith and Scott Parker name FA Cup line-ups

Fulham v Aston Villa team news | The FA Cup takes centre stage for both Fulham and Villa this afternoon at Craven Cottage, and the two managers have named their sides

Dean Smith has named his Aston Villa starting 11 for today's FA Cup clash with Fulham.

The Villa boss was always likely to ring the changes for the third-round tie, and he has done just that – making nine.

Season-ending injuries to Tom Heaton and Wesley, suffered in the win over Burnley, always meant a shuffle would be needed.

But just two players keep their place from that win at Turf Moor. They are left-back Neil Taylor and central midfielder Marvelous Nakamba.


Aston Villa's Jack Grealish (left) and Marvelous Nakamba battle for the ball

In come Orjan Nyland, Ahmed Elmohamady, Bjorn Engels, James Chester, Henri Lansbury, Conor Hourihane, Jota, Anwar El Ghazi and Jonathan Kodjia.

Academy stars Jacob Ramsey and Indiana Vassilev also make the bench, as it looks like Smith has reverted his more regularly used 4-3-3 formation.

After a morale-boosting Premier League win on New Year's Day, all attentions are now on the cup competition, with their last FA Cup trophy success in 1957.

In the semi-final of the Carabao Cup as well, it is an opportunity for Villa to fire on three fronts this season, along with their bid for Premier League survival.

Fulham: Rodak; Christie, Mawson, Hector, Odoi; Onomah, McDonald, Johansen; Knockaert, Cavaleiro, Bryan.

Subs: Bettinelli, Arter, O'Riley, De La Torre, Harris, Jasper, Stansfield.

Aston Villa: Nyland; Elmohamady, Engels, Chester, Taylor; Lansbury, Nakamba, Hourihane; Jota, Kodjia, El Ghazi.

Subs: Kalinic, Guilbert, Konsa, Hause, Ramsey, Trezeguet, Vassilev.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-team-news-fulham-17512456