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Friday Fulham Stuff - 17/01/20...

Started by WhiteJC, January 16, 2020, 10:34:04 AM

Previous topic - Next topic

WhiteJC

'This could be exciting', 'Fingers crossed' – Plenty of Fulham fans react as January announcement is made

Loads of Fulham fans have reacted after the club confirmed the loan signing of Huddersfield Town defender Terrence Kongolo.

The 25-year-old has arrived to bolster the Whites' defensive line, and is capable of playing both in the centre and on the left-hand side of defence, with Scott Parker no doubt hoping that he will help restore some solidity to the side.

This season has seen him make 11 second-tier appearances for The Terriers since their relegation from the Premier League, but he has not been involved in the matchday squad since the 5-2 loss to Bristol City at the end of November.

He was a regular throughout the club's second season in the Premier League, however, racking up 32 appearances as they plummeted to the foot of the table, notching one goal and an assist in the campaign.

Fulham certainly needed defensive reinforcements heading into this season but it is safe to say that not everyone is convinced by the signing...



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/this-could-be-exciting-fingers-crossed-plenty-of-fulham-fans-react-as-january-announcement-is-made/

WhiteJC

Middlesbrough handed huge injury boost ahead of Fulham test

Jonathan Woodgate has confirmed that George Friend and Ryan Shotton are stepping up their recovery from injury and could return within 'a couple of weeks'.

Friend has featured just once since August after suffering a thigh and hip problem which plagued his pre-season preparations and subsequently ruled him out after returning to action against Queens Park Rangers.

As for Shotton, the defender has been out of action since October with an ankle injury.

The fitness update is excellent news for Middlesbrough, and while they won't be fit for the trip to Fulham, there's a hope that they'll return before February.

Elsewhere Woodgate provided an update on Daniel Ayala, Britt Assombalonga and Anfernee Dijksteel who are still some way from a return.

Speaking to the Middlesbrough website, Woodgate said: "No injuries from the other day.

"The ones who have been injured – Friend and Shotton are doing a lot of work on the grass at the minute, and they could be a couple of weeks away.

"Ayala, I would say four weeks, Britt we're not sure on yet and Dijksteel is another couple of months."

The verdict

The news of George Friend and Ryan Shotton's progress is great news.

Middlesbrough are desperately short of defensive options and have even considered the prospect of entering the transfer market as they seek cover for the coming months.

But with the duo close to a return then it's possible that Jonathan Woodgate will perhaps hold off and wait for his two experienced stars to make their comeback.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/middlesbrough-handed-huge-injury-boost-ahead-of-fulham-test/

WhiteJC

Up next: Middlesbrough (h)

That scoreless draw up at the Riverside Stadium seems a lot longer ago than October. It was a strange sort of game – utterly disrupted by the early sending off of Marek Rodak, now firmly established as Scott Parker's number one, where Fulham might have felt a little aggrieved not to have grabbed all three points despite their numerical disadvantage. Middlesbrough, who badly lacked both penetration and creativity as the natives appeared restless with Jonathan Woodgate, looked set for a long season at the wrong end of the table.

Boro, though, are booming now. One thing Steve Gibson gives his managers is plenty of time, unlike most owners in the modern game. Woodgate was reassured by his chairman's regular encouragement, even after winning just two of his first seventeen matches in charge, and gradually things began to click. Confidence surged after a key victory at Barnsley and another impressive success at Charlton sparked a run of four straight wins over the festive period that saw a manager under pressure suddenly clutching the Championship manager of the month award.

Woodgate has placed plenty of faith in youngsters, befitting the club's history of bringing through talent from one of the country's most successful academy set-ups. Young Aynsley Pears, whose only first team experience prior to Darren Randolph getting injured in October came in non-league football, has been a revelation in goal. Djed Spence, who came through the Fulham academy before moving on last summer, has shone since being introduced at right back and he could well have another former Fulham youngster playing in front of him at Craven Cottage tonight after Patrick Roberts joined on loan from Manchester City. Early signs of the link-up between the two have been encouraging.

Middlesbrough's impressive revival has gone under the radar somewhat given how congested the top half of the Championship is at present. Remarkably, since a 4-0 hammering at Leeds in November, they have taken 17 points from a possible 24 – the best in the division. Only a late, late Derby equaliser prevented them from making it five wins in a row last weekend – and Woodgate's men head to London with the momentum, so crucial in this crazy league, right behind them.

There's no doubt Boro have plenty of quality. Dael Fry remains one of the most underrated centre halves in the league and young Nathan Wood, even at the tender age of 17, has the hallmarks of a player who could go all the way. The teenager is in line for a start, especially with Middlesbrough struggling for fit centre halves at the moment. The likes of Hayden Coulson, Marcus Tavernier, George Saville and Roberts – who were all rested for the FA Cup replay at Spurs in midweek – should come back into the side. The visitors might still be without star striker Britt Assombalonga, who has a history of troubling Fulham, but Woodgate can now call on the fit-again Rudy Gestede and Lucas Nmecha. There's also the in-form Ashley Fletcher, who has found the net in both of his last two away league games.

Fulham have been particularly flaky this season. Just when a humbling defeat at the hands of Reading on New Year's Day appeared to leave the automatic promotion positions out of reach, a gritty win at Hull left the tantalising prospect of catching the top two, who surrendered points at the same time, back on the table. That victory on Humberside was built on a clean sheet – with Michael Hector enjoying an promising league debut – and a doggedness rarely seen under Parker this season, with the manager leaving the likes of Tom Cairney and Harry Arter on the bench as the Whites produced the perfect away performance.

The big question will be how Parker decides to deal with the untimely absence of Aleksandar Mitrovic, who will be sidelined for at least three weeks after injuring his ankle ligaments in the second half at Hull. The absence of their talisman, who has scored 18 goals in 26 games, could be devastating as the Whites look to mount a promotion push – especially as Aboubakar Kamara, who deputised for the Serbian so ably against QPR earlier in the campaign, is also nursing an ankle problem. Parker will probably ask Bobby Decordova-Reid to fill a more advanced role, although Ivan Cavaleiro – who celebrated his permanent move to Craven Cottage with a stunning winner at Hull last weekend – operated as a false nine in the FA Cup win over Aston Villa. The romantic choice would be continuing Jay Stansfield's exceptional start to his Fulham career, although the 17 year-old is more likely to start on the bench.

Parker still has questions to ponder over the make up of the rest of his side. Denis Odoi did well to shackle Jarrod Bowen at the KCOM and could continue at left back, especially with a host of clubs apparently pursuing an interest in Joe Bryan, whilst Terence Kongolo's loan move from Huddersfield has probably come too late for him to slot straight into the back four this evening. The midfield might be missing Harrison Reid's bite, but Kevin McDonald shored things up impressively at Hull after an iffy start and his experience could be vital on a night when Fulham may need to be both patient and streetwise against tricky opponents.

MY FULHAM XI (4-3-3): Rodak; Christie, Odoi, Hector, Ream; McDonald, Onomah, Cairney; Knockaert, Cavaleiro, Decordova-Reid. Subs: Norman, S. Sessegnon, Mawson, Arter, Johansen, Kebano, Stansfield.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/01/up-next-middlesbrough-h-2/


WhiteJC

Notes from January meeting with FFC

On Monday 13th January at 12:30, the Fulham Supporters' Trust met with Fulham FC at Motspur Park.

The Club was represented by:

    Alistair Mackintosh (CEO)
    David Daly (Non Executive Director)
    Nicola Walworth (Supporter Relations Manager)
    Katy Brecht (Head of Ticketing)
    Aimee McKenzie (Operations and Venue Director)
    Carmelo Mifsud (Communications Director)
    Charlie Harris (Communications Assistant)

The FST was represented by board members:

    Jerry Cope
    Dan Crawford

HOW IT WORKS

Each topic below is raised by the FST in an attempt to discuss issues raised primarily by a number of our members. Individual questions from members are sent to the Club outside the meeting, and we encourage members first to raise these directly with the Club via [email protected].

If any member has raised an issue that it has not been possible to discuss in the time available then please do contact us again in good time before the next meeting.

We encourage members to provide us with as much detail as possible (e.g. time, duration, date etc.) when raising issues either with the Trust or directly with the Club.
TOPICS DISCUSSED

The Trust informed the Club that the FST Board has been strengthened by the co-option of Derek Brewer, a Fulham fan and formerly Chief Executive of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, who now works with the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board).

The following topics were then raised and discussed:

    Catering
    Stewarding of home areas
    Homophobic chanting
    2020/21 season tickets
    January transfer window
    AOB

CATERING

Catering has been a regular topic at this season's meetings, particularly speed of service.  The Trust said that feedback from recent games (Stoke, Reading, Aston Villa) indicated that the speed of catering had improved, particularly by the pre-pouring of drinks, and we hoped this could be maintained or indeed improved further.

The Trust also asked about the mystery shopper exercise undertaken by the Club which was discussed at the December meeting. The Club explained that the issues raised by the exercise were similar to those reported by Trust members. The Club is now focusing on seeing whether healthy options can be added to the menus along with better signage and communications. The Trust was supportive of these further improvements.

The Club added that, in response to a previous suggestion from the Trust, at this Friday's game against Middlesbrough they will be trialling 'hawkers' in red coats at the Hammersmith End who will sell hot dogs only (as a start) to try to help ease congestion. Continuation of this scheme will be critically dependant on take-up. The Club was also pleased to note that the barista style coffee outlet at the Hammersmith End has been very successful.

We encourage supporters to use the new hawkers where possible to ensure their use is continued and expanded.  This will contribute towards alleviating the concourse congestion.

STEWARDING OF HOME AREAS

The Trust received a number of recent reports of identifiable away fans in home areas and asked about both tickets being in away fans' hands and also the protocol for stewards dealing with such fans.

The Club said that it had a zero tolerance policy towards Fulham fans buying tickets for away supporters who identified themselves by their actions etc, and asked supporters to make a note of where any such away fans were sitting and pass this information to the Club.

The Club explained that at the Aston Villa match a number of such away fans had been identified and ejected by stewards checking tickets on entry to the ground. If Fulham supporters notice away fans in home areas during a game they are asked to notify a steward who can pass the information via a supervisor to 'control'. The Trust said that, based on its reports, it was not clear that firm and visible enough action was being taken. All acknowledged that this was a difficult and sensitive area and it would be kept under close review.

The Trust also added that the blocking of stairways by stewards seemed to have improved recently but again asked that this continued to be spelt out in the pre-match briefing, especially to new stewards.
Where possible we asked that more help be given to supporters by stewards to find their seats, particularly given the layout of the Johnny Haynes stand.

The Trust noted that it was opening up separate channels of communication around the stewarding of away fans in away areas.

HOMOPHOBIC CHANTING

The Trust highlighted that supporters were becoming increasingly concerned by the prevalence of homophobic chants at both home and away matches and asked about protocols for handling complaints.

We were told that the Club followed a protocol when becoming aware of such chanting in an area of the ground. The Club encouraged the reporting of unacceptable behaviour to stewards or via the Kick It Out telephone number publicised at each game. If such reports are received within a game then the Club can make announcements in specified areas of the ground as had happened in the away section during the Reading game. Otherwise, if supporters do not wish to alert stewards on the day, the Club asked that supporters make a note of precisely where such behaviour was happening and inform them so that they can then monitor the area in future games.

The Trust noted that Hull, for instance, have their own well publicised phone and text number for quick in-game reporting of incidents by supporters, and asked if the Club could provide something similar. We were assured this is under consideration.

It was agreed that it is in everyone's interests to make the atmosphere at Fulham games as positive and inclusive as possible.

2020/21 SEASON TICKETS

In response to a question from the Trust, the Club said that it is too early even to start planning next season's ticket policy, not least because of the obvious uncertainty around which division we will be playing in. The Club intends to leave the decision as late as possible.

The Club did however add that it is very pleased with attendance levels at home and away games this season. The Club is also pleased with the operation of the season ticket exchange ticket system, which they encouraged more people to use when it is triggered, as will be the case as the season progresses.

JANUARY TRANSFER WINDOW

The Trust asked how activity in the transfer window will operate and pressed in particular on the involvement of the Head Coach and Tony Khan, the latter who clearly has other high profile business sometimes in America. Alistair Mackintosh responded that he had talked to Tony Khan every day at length, including weekends, since and before the window opened and both Tony Khan and Scott Parker were fully involved in planning strategy for the window. These two key individuals were supported by an experienced team analysing options etc. The Club would continue to support the Head Coach, within FFP rules, if he wanted to strengthen the squad.

At the time of the meeting the Club had no further news on the injury to Aleksandar Mitrović.

AOB
Manchester City ticketing and travel.

The Trust asked if there was going to be any support to help fans get to Manchester by 13:00 on a Sunday for the cup tie. The Club responded that prices had been set very low (£10 for adults) which was in their view very good value; coach prices had been set reasonably and they argued that the overall package was good value.  Fulham have agreed to take 5,000 tickets for the game, noting that Port Vale had managed to bring over 7,000 supporters to the previous round against City, although the Trust pointed out that that game was not on TV, and Port Vale was much closer to Manchester.
Charlton Athletic re-arranged fixture

The Club re-iterated that under EFL rules there was nothing that the Club could do about Charlton fixing the date of the forthcoming game, despite it unusually being at very short notice.
Pre-match announcement of the team

The Club said that it was the request of the first team that in the tweet giving the team the formation of players was not revealed any more.
Public Wi-Fi

The provision of public Wi-Fi for the whole ground is being considered as part of the Riverside Stand construction, but there are formidable technical difficulties.
Exiting the Hammersmith End

The Club explained that it is not possible under the Club's Safety Licence for exit from the Hammersmith End to be also via the Johnny Haynes stand.
Contracts for young players

There are very complex rules around contracts for young players and a lot depends on the attitude of the player. (The Trust would refer interested supporters to the full explanation given in the notes of our July 2019 meeting).
Issues at end of Hull City match

There had clearly been problems at the end of the Hull away game, and supporters are encouraged to notify Hull Supporter Liaison via [email protected] with full details of anything they experienced.
More information on Club medical staff

The Club will consider profiling the medical team and other less visible staff, but were concerned about singling out any one individual.
Hammersmith End congestion

The Club continues to give consideration to overcrowding on the concourse in the Hammersmith End, including access to toilets, and will ask stewards to move people along where appropriate.
Use of 'Live Tourism' services

When in the Premier League, the Club received six visits a year from an organisation called 'Live Tourism' on the ground experience and had made adjustments following their recommendations, but the EFL only provides one such visit a year.
Barnsley incident

The Club confirmed that the incident at the Barnsley away game was due in court in mid-February, and no further comment would be made until the case had concluded.

The meeting closed at 14:00



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2020/01/notes-from-january-meeting-with-ffc-2/

WhiteJC

David Prutton predicts what will happen in Fulham's clash with Middlesbrough tonight

David Prutton has predicted Fulham to come out on top when they host in-form Middlesbrough at Craven Cottage on Friday night.

The Cottagers have been somewhat unpredictable over recent weeks as they've dropped points to sides such as Luton and Reading, before earning a good away win at Hull.

Middlesbrough have been on the surge of late, and Jonathan Woodgate managed to pick up the manager of the month award for December.

It will not be easy for Scott Parker's side, but if they want to challenge for the top two then they need to win their home fixtures. Prutton has predicted them to do just that, with a 2-1 victory.

Speaking in his Sky Sports column, Prutton said: "The door is starting to open for Fulham. West Brom and Leeds are dropping points and now they need to go on a run to really put that pressure on.

"This would have been a much easier-looking game a couple of months ago, but Middlesbrough have improved magnificently under Jonathan Woodgate. They will fancy their chances, but I fancy Fulham to sneak it."

The Verdict

Fulham really have to pick up another three points if they want to become serious challengers to the top two over the next few weeks. The Cottagers have a good side but have to be more consistent to challenge.

Boro will pose a big threat, and even at Tottenham in midweek they looked very dangerous going forward and a completely different side to the start of the season.

It should be an entertaining game, and one that both sides will be determined to get three points in. A loss for Fulham could really open the door for teams in and around the play-off spots to start gaining on Parker's side.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/david-prutton-predicts-what-will-happen-in-fulhams-clash-with-middlesbrough-tonight/

WhiteJC

Joe Nicholson's starting XI to face Fulham - with FIVE changes from Tottenham defeat
Middlesbrough are preparing for their Championship meeting with Fulham at Craven Cottage – but who will start for Jonathan Woodgate's side?

The Boro boss is expected to make changes following Tuesday's FA Cup defeat at Tottenham, with the Teessiders hoping to extend their five-match unbeaten run in the Championship. Our Boro writer Joe Nicholson has picked the side he would choose to face Fulham – scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to see his selections:
1. GK: Aynsley Pears

Expected to return to the starting XI after missing the cup game at Tottenham.

2. RWB: Djed Spence

Has started Boro's last seven games in all competitions and continues to impress in the right wing-back role.

3. CB: Jonny Howson

Injuries have forced Woodgate to use Howson at centre-back but the 31-year-old has performed excellently.

4. CB: Paddy McNair

Another midfielder who has played at the back in recent weeks and performed well.

5. CB: Dael Fry

Boro's only fit centre-back right now. Has operated on the left of a back three.

6. LWB: Hayden Coulson

Rested at Spurs. Has been a key player for the Teessiders this season.

7. CM: Adam Clayton

Provides defensive protection in the middle of the park.

8. CM: George Saville

Made an impact off the bench at Tottenham. Will be expected to be recalled to the starting XI.

9. RW: Patrick Roberts

Impressed on his league debut against Derby last weekend.

10. LW: Marcus Tavernier

Another player who made an impact off the bench at Tottenham.

11. ST: Ashley Fletcher

Has scored four goals in his last seven games.



https://www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/sport/football/middlesbrough-fc/joe-nicholsons-starting-xi-face-fulham-five-changes-tottenham-defeat-1368109


WhiteJC

'Good riddance' – Plenty of Huddersfield Town fans are delighted as defender's departure is confirmed

Huddersfield Town have recently announced that Terence Kongolo has left the club to join Fulham on loan for the remainder of the season.

The defender made 11 appearances for the Terriers in this year's campaign, and they've made the decision to move him on to one of their Championship rivals.

Kongolo links up with a Fulham team that are well in the hunt for promotion this season, with Scott Parker's men currently occupying a spot in the play-offs.

Huddersfield have recently added Richard Stearman to their squad from Sheffield United, which has seemingly pushed Kongolo further down the pecking order in Danny Cowley's plans.

The Terriers are struggling this season in the Championship, and are currently sat 20th in the second tier standings, and they're certain to be nervously looking over their shoulders.

Plenty of Huddersfield fans took to social media to issue their thoughts on Kongolo's temporary departure from the club.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/good-riddance-plenty-of-huddersfield-town-fans-are-delighted-as-defenders-departure-is-confirmed/

WhiteJC

All the latest Fulham injury news right here

Fulham welcome Middlesbrough to Craven Cottage tonight to kick-off another weekend of Championship action as they look to move up into third place.

The Whites are looking to make it three wins on the bounce in all competitions after seeing off Aston Villa in the FA Cup and Hull City in the league, but Jonathan Woodgate's side will be no pushovers.

Boro have won four of their last five Championship clashes as things finally start to click under the club's ex-defender and a win for them tonight would see them rise to within five points of the top-six.

And they have been helped out by some injury news emerging from Craven Cottage.

Most notably that star-striker, and the second-tier's joint top-scorer, Aleksandar Mitrovic will be missing the match after damaging ankle ligaments in the 1-0 win against Hull City last-time out.

The marksman has rescued the Whites regularly this season so there is no doubt that they will be a weaker machine without the 18-goal Serbian in their side tonight.

However, that looks like being the only major absentee from the Fulham squad for the clash.

New signings Michael Hector, Jordan Archer and Terence Kongolo will all be available for selection and will no doubt make it difficult for Boro to break them down if they are picked to start.

Last time Fulham were made to do without Mitrovic they were not hampered either, beating local rivals QPR 2-1 at Craven Cottage, with Aboubakar Kamara stepping up impressively to score a brace.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/all-the-latest-fulham-injury-news-right-here-3/

WhiteJC

The main talking points from Parker's Fulham press conference for Middlesbrough clash

Fulham welcome Middlesbrough to Craven Cottage tonight to kick-off another weekend of Championship action as they look to move up into third place.

The Whites are looking to make it three wins on the bounce in all competitions after seeing off Aston Villa in the FA Cup and Hull City in the league, but Jonathan Woodgate's side will be no pushovers.

Boro have won four of their last five Championship clashes as things finally start to click under the club's ex-defender and a win for them tonight would see them rise to within five points of the top-six.

And, as is customary, Scott Parker delivered his pre-match press conference ahead of the clash with Boro, and here are the main taling points.

The manager's update on the injury sustained by Aleksandar Mitrovic was the most eyecatching of the comments, with Parker suggesting that they thought the injury could have been much worse.

However, he will definitely miss the clash with Boro and possibly two or three more matches two with the Serbian now expected to sit out the next three weeks of action.

It was not all about Fulham, however, with Parker offering plenty of praise to the opposition and Woodgate in particular, insisting that he has done a very good job at the Riverside since coming in, also complementing their display against Tottenham Hotspur in midweek.

He was also quick to emphasise how tough their coming run of fixtures will be but also said that if they can get a good run of results through the coming patch then they will have a real shot at winning promotion.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/the-main-talking-points-from-parkers-fulham-press-conference-for-middlesbrough-clash/


WhiteJC

Programme Peek

With the top two of West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United having a bit of a wobble, automatic promotion remains firmly on for Fulham. A win against Middlesbrough would move the Whites to within four points of the Elland Road outfit, for a few hours at least. Inconsistency has dogged Fulham this term, though, and Kevin McDonald knows that needs to change.

"Expectations are massive for Fulham because we've just come down and spent a bit of money and that contributed to us being one of the favourites to win the league," he tells Friday's official matchday programme. "We're inconsistent but we're still fourth. If we could have got on a good run, we'd probably be top two.

"The league is there for the taking, that's the most frustrating thing. We can see it and it's up to us to be mentally strong and go out there each week and work our socks off to win. We've got a good chance but we're 27 games in and the penny has to drop that we've got to go on a run. It's easy enough to say it, but we need to show we have what it takes.

"No one is really stringing a run of results together. West Brom and Leeds started the season on fire which is why they are where they are but they're slowly coming down and I still think we can catch them. The aim remains top two."


To read the full interview with McDonald, pick up a copy of the award-winning publication on Friday. Other highlights include interviews with Scott Parker, Tom Cairney, Michael Hector, Jonathan Greening, Gordon Davies and Les Strong plus the usual array of top-drawer features.

Priced £3.50, the 100-page publication is available from various sellers on Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Or order it online from ProgrammeMaster where you can also purchase past editions. For just £1.99, the programme is also available as a digital download on your iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, PC or Mac via Pocketmags right now.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/january/17/programme-peek

WhiteJC

Danny Cowley makes admission on recent Huddersfield Town departure

Huddersfield Town manager Danny Cowley has commented on the departure of Dutch defender Terence Kongolo, who has joined Fulham until the end of the season.

The Terriers came down for the Premier League this season with a bunch of players still suffering from the hangover of their ill-fated top-flight campaign last term, one of those being defender Terence Kongolo, who arrived last season from Feyenoord.

This season hasn't been much kinder for the versatile defender as he has struggled for consistency in the side with irregular outings stemming from below-par performances along with injury issues.

The January transfer window has given Danny Cowley the chance to trim and strengthen his squad ahead of a relegation battle for the second half of the campaign, and Kongolo was one player that's future needed resolving this month.

Yesterday, it was confirmed that the 25-year-old was to join the Cottagers on-loan for the rest of the season, potentially putting an end to his pretty torrid spell at the John Smith's Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the Terriers' clash with Brentford on Saturday, manager Danny Cowley commented on Kongolo's departure and how the player's current career path is going. He stated (as quoted by Leon Wobschall): "We were pleased with the deal and finances associated with it. If Terence's head and heart are in the right place, he can be a top player."

Kongolo will now linkup with his new teammates to help push for success at the other end of the table to where Huddersfield are battling.

The verdict

In terms of outgoings at Huddersfield, shifting Kongolo out of the club this month should have been the top priority given that he was the club's record signing and presumably on a significant wage that can now be redistributed or saved.

There is no doubting that he has the ability to play higher than the Championship, having featured in the Champions League with Feyenoord, but as Cowley says, his attitude and focus need to be spot on going forward.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/danny-cowley-makes-admission-on-recent-huddersfield-town-departure/

WhiteJC

Aleksandar Mitrovic shares personal injury update with Fulham fans

Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has shared an update with fans as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury suffered against Hull City last weekend.

The Serbian is set for at least two weeks on the sideline, meaning he will miss tonight's clash with Middlesbrough at Craven Cottage, but his latest update seemed to show that he is determined to be back as soon as possible.

He shared a short clip on his Instagram story where he appeared to be working on the strength of his ankle at the club's training ground:



It may only be a few league matches he ends up missing, but having already netted 18 times in the Championship – sitting top of the scoring charts alongside Brentford's Ollie Watkins – it will leave a big gap in Scott Parker's side.

Fulham currently sit in fourth place in the Championship heading into tonight's clash, knowing that a win against Jonathan Woodgate's men would see them move up into third.

A win would also make it three on the trot in all competitions for the Whites as hey look for an immediate return to the Premier League.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/aleksandar-mitrovic-shares-personal-injury-update-with-fulham-fans/


WhiteJC

Predicted Middlesbrough XI v Fulham

Middlesbrough take on Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Championship this evening, with the away side hoping to make it six league games unbeaten.

Here is the predicted line up for Middlesbrough for tonight's fixture:

GK – Aynsley Pears
With Randolph departing and despite Dejan Stojanovic arriving, Pears is expected to be the club's number one.

RWB – Djed Spence
Spence substituted at Spurs in midweek to make sure he was fresh for a trip to his former-side Fulham and should start tonight.

RCB – Jonny Howson
Howson has filled in at the back like a true professional, excelling in the position despite being a natural midfielder.

CB – Paddy McNair
Similarly, McNair is a natural number eight but has done well in defence.

LCB – Dael Fry
The youngster is the only natural centre-back fit and is has played well in recent weeks.

LWB – Hayden Coulson
Coulson will come back into the side after dropping out against Tottenham.

CDM – Lewis Wing
Adam Clayton could be rested after playing the full 90 in the FA Cup on Tuesday, with Wing dropping deeper.

RCM – George Saville
Saville was brilliant off the bench against Spurs and should return to the starting eleven.

LCM – Marcus Tavernier
Similarly, Tavernier made an impact after coming on against Jose Mourinho's side and should be brought back into contention.

CAM – Patrick Roberts
Roberts was impressive in his first league start last weekend against Derby and will likely keep his place.

ST – Ashley Fletcher
Fletcher has been brilliant leading the line on his own and has four goals in his last six appearances.



https://the72.co.uk/154993/predicted-middlesbrough-xi-v-fulham/

WhiteJC

From renting out the club car park to hosting WAKES: Bath City FC face battle to stay afloat amid £100,000-a-year losses... and now former Premier League striker Bobby Zamora has joined the fight

    Bath City FC, a National League South side, are losing around £100k every year
    The club need to find a way to replay a £1million debt by 2022
    They have been forced to host wakes and rent their car park out to raise funds
    A crucial council meeting set for February 12 that will decide their future

Former Premier League striker Bobby Zamora has joined the fight to save his cash-strapped former club.

The forward, 39, launched a successful career with 11 goals in eight games at Bath City in 2000, and later played for Brighton, Tottenham, West Ham, Fulham and QPR, as well as winning two England caps.

The National League South side – losing £100,000 a year - could go under if Bath & North East Somerset Council reject the planning application to develop the ground at a key meeting on February 12.


Bobby Zamora has returned to his former club Bath City FC to help them out of trouble

Zamora told the Times: 'Bath gave me a chance of men's football. It was a baptism of fire, the Dr Martens Premier at the time, getting lumps kicked out of me.

'I've great memories of Bath. The fans were great, a real hardcore set, always vocal. I was there six weeks, played eight games, scored 11 goals and could go back to Bristol Rovers and look Ian Holloway in the eye.'

Bath are desperate to raise money. They are renting out the car park, using some areas as a gym and – round the corner from Haycombe Cemetery and Crematorium – even hosting wakes.


Bath City are losing £100,000 a year and need to come up with a solution to stay afloat

The club has teamed up with Greenacre Capital for a redevelopment introducing corporate facilities, increasing the stadium capacity and adding a 3G pitch, with student accommodation built on-site providing revenue to fund the project.

Local-born Bath manager Jerry Gill said: 'The redevelopment's an absolute no-brainer. We need it to get over the line.


The club hope to redevelop their ground in order to generate greater revenue


The plans include building student housing and developing the nearby high street


'If we don't get planning, I guess we might have to sell the land for supermarkets, for housing, because there is a £1 million debt to be repaid by 2022.'

Saturday's home game against Hemel Hempstead Town set to raise awareness of the club's plight ahead of the council meeting on February 12.

Zamora concluded: 'I'd like to think the council will back Bath. They have an opportunity to save the club.

'Twerton Park is a lovely ground with a lot of history. Bath are a community club, a big part of Bath. It would be a shame to see it go.'


Bath City FC are asking fans and locals for their opinion on the development plans. If you are affected by this issue and want to have a say you can do so here.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7900055/Bath-City-FC-face-battle-stay-afloat-amid-100-000-year-losses.html

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Fulham v Middlesbrough Preview: Can Boro secure a vital win
Middlesbrough face Fulham on Friday night as they look to continue their good run of form.

Boro have not lost in their last five League games but face an in-form Fulham side.

The biggest talking point before the game was the news of the extent of the injury to Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Mitrovic was stretched off in Saturday's win at Hull City and has been ruled out for two to three weeks.

Middlesbrough will see his absence as a boost with the forward netting 44% of Fulham's goals this season.

Boro have injury issues of their own with Britt Assombalonga yet to recover from a niggling ankle problem.

Middlesbrough have a good record at Craven Cottage, with Boro yet to lose their in their last two matches. The away side also have momentum on their side, picking up 17 points in their last eight games in the league, winning five of the matches.

Ashley Fletcher will be the man that Boro will turn to, with the striker netting in his last two away games in the League.

A win would take Fulham to third in the table and within four points of second-placed Leeds United, while a victory for Middlesbrough would take the club two places to 14th in the table.

This game has goals written over it with Woodgate's men hoping to come out with a positive result.



https://www.oneboro.co.uk/boro-news/fulham-v-middlesbrough-preview-can-boro-secure-a-vital-win-17120


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