Saturday Fulham Stuff - 27/06/20...

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Injured Huddersfield Town man back in training at Canalside after two operations

Terence Kongolo has been out of action since February having picked up an injury while out on loan

Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo has been rehabilitating his broken foot at the club's PPG Canalside training ground after returning from his loan spell at Fulham.

Terriers manager Danny Cowley confirmed the player's status at his press conference looking forward to Sunday's game against Nottingham Forest.

Kongolo is not eligible to play any further games for Town having been on loan at Craven Cottage when the season was put on hiatus: only players who were on loan in divisions that have officially been ended may be recalled if given EFL dispensation.

The Dutch international went off injured just nine minutes into his league debut for Fulham back in February having only previously played for them in an FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.

Cowley said: "Terence has been back. He broke one of the metatarsals in his foot playing for Fulham, which was unfortunate because he'd just broken into their team.

"It's not quite a straightforward one, the injury he has, so it needed an operation and some metalwork put in to stabilise the joint.

"He's now just had another operation to take the metalwork out.

"The process slowed down a little bit because of the pandemic and not being able to get access to hospitals, but now he's on the mend and he's been back on the training ground and rehabbing the injury. We wish him well with that."

With the defender having been omitted from Cowley's plans following the club's disastrous 5-2 defeat to Bristol City on 30th November, it seems likely that the Terriers will continue to pursue a permanent move away for Kongolo once the transfer window opens.



https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/injured-huddersfield-town-man-back-18494346

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3 Tactical Decisions Bielsa Should Make In Order To Ensure A Victory For Leeds United Vs Fulham

Leeds United will host Fulham on Saturday hoping to bounce back to winning ways following a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Cardiff City last weekend. The Whites looked very chaotic and lacked productivity in the previous game, and as they look to keep up with league leaders West Bromwich Albion, a win could be critical.

And in this article, we will discuss three tactical decisions Marcelo Bielsa should make against Fulham to ensure a victory for Leeds United this weekend.

A deeper role for Mateusz Klich

In the game against Cardiff City, the chronic lack of passing options at the back, especially with both fullbacks foraging forward, was seemingly evident. In fact, both of Cardiff's goals stemmed from individual errors from Kalvin Phillips and Liam Cooper respectively. And Fulham will also be keen on utilising Leeds' weakness in the build-up by employing a high press.

That's where Mateusz Klich come into the fray. The Pole primarily operated as an attacking midfielder in the last game. But, his passing range and experience could be useful for the Whites in the build-up play.

So essentially, it means Bielsa should look to deploy Klich in a deeper role, perhaps forming a double-pivot with Phillips and him starting at the base of the formation. It should allow not only Phillips but also the central defenders to circulate the ball more efficiently, thus making it easy for Leeds to navigate through opposition's first line of press.

Attacking from central areas of the pitch

Leeds United's lack of productivity in the final third has been rather evident this season. Their main striker Patrick Bamford, in particular, lacks the physical capacity as well as the aggression necessary to thrive in the club's more wing-oriented approach that focuses on whipping in crosses from the wider areas of the pitch.

In Michael Hector and Tim Ream, Fulham also have tall centre-backs who are ready to minimise the attacking potential of Bamford. Hence, attacking from more central areas of the pitch, through clever one-touch passing and efficient use of half-spaces should aid Leeds United this weekend as they aim to breach the opposing defence this weekend.

Tyler Roberts, who showed some promise last time out, could be essential in this system while Phillips' brilliant range of passing could also play a key role in unlocking the Fulham defence from central areas or half-spaces.

Replacing Helder Costa with Ian Poveda

Helder Costa was, no doubt, a spark against Cardiff City in the last game. However, one would argue that the Portuguese attacker was far too predictable with his offensive runs, often moving in centrally or whipping in crosses from the byline. Bielsa, therefore, could fancy an alternative in the shape of Ian Poveda.

The young winger, on loan from Manchester City, is an exciting attacker known for his dynamism and trickery on the flanks. He can provide a sense of unpredictability in the Leeds United attack. Also, Poveda has the pace that could add more threat on the counter while his ability to move inside and hover around the edge of the box should keep the Fulham defenders occupied.



https://the4thofficial.net/2020/06/3-tactical-decisions-bielsa-should-make-in-order-to-ensure-a-victory-for-leeds-united-vs-fulham/

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Brentford 1-0 West Brom: Ollie Watkins strike hands Leeds chance to take Championship lead in Fulham clash on Saturday as Baggies falter

    Championship leaders West Brom have handed Leeds the chance to pass them
    The Baggies couldn't find a way past Brentford away from home on Friday
    Striker Ollie Watkins tapped in the opener after 16 minutes from close-range
    Leeds host Fulham on Wednesday, hoping to seize control of the title race again

Brentford were supposed to have said goodbye to this creaking corner of west London by now.

Only coronavirus has prolonged their 116-year stay at Griffin Park so, for a few more weeks at least, they remain a club with two stadiums and one aim: crash the promotion party and move to swankier surroundings in more revered company.

If this represented a new beginning of the end, it wasn't a bad start. Suddenly the battle to join the big boys is cooking nicely under the summer sun.

Leaders West Brom arrived here knowing victory would put them 10 points clear of the play-off places - for a few hours at least. They left with no win in five and no goal in three.

After Ollie Watkins' early goal decided a fractious Friday night clash, Brentford are now breathing down their necks. This long goodbye could yet end with tears of a different kind - even if supporters can't be here for the ride.

'We're really pleased... defensively it was 100 per cent top, top performance,' said Thomas Frank, whose side have halved a 10-point gap to the top two in just a week.

'We knew we needed to win to fight the top two... we have big dreams.'

Bilic, in contrast, bemoaned his side's 'nervous' display.

'We knew it would be a big test for us but it's simple - there wasn't one aspect of the game where we were top... there is only ourselves to blame.'

Earlier, as the sun rose on a pivotal few days in the promotion push, the strangeness of this summer sprint extended beyond silence and empty seats.

Around Griffin Park, clear skies gave way to brief torrents of rain before Mathias Jensen's injury left Frank's side a man down before a ball was kicked.

Soon, though, normal service resumed. The Championship's familiar, frantic rhythm took over and then Watkins did as Watkins has done all season.

After slick passing freed Said Benrahma down the left, the winger drove towards the box before squaring to Josh Dasilva, whose cross-cum-shot was turned in for Watkins' 23rd of the season.

Though the visitors tried to up the tempo, cohesion remained sorely lacking. Even as Slaven Bilic grew evermore tetchy, still Brentford had more luck forcing the issue.

And by the break, it probably should have been two. Twice Brentford broke, twice they spurned the chance. First Benrahma's wayward pass killed a promising move before Dasilva drove into the box, only to fluff his shot.

Bilic shuffled his pack and Kenneth Zohore - one of two half-time replacements – sent a thumping effort into the bar. David Raya was beaten in the Brentford goal and soon the home side were teetering.

Some shoddy passing from the back threatened disaster as West Brom launched wave after wave of pressure. On such spells promotion races can swing but, to their credit, Brentford gathered themselves.

Dasilva soon skewed a shot inches wide - fortunately for the few remaining Bees left inside Griffin Park, West Brom failed to make him pay.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-8464777/Brentford-1-0-West-Brom-Ollie-Watkins-strike-hands-Leeds-chance-Championship-lead.html

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Believe We Can Beat Leeds United, Fulham Star Tells Team-mates

Fulham midfielder Harrison Reed has urged the Cottagers to believe they can go to Elland Road and pick up a result against Leeds United, something he is not discounting due to the crazy nature of the Championship.

Leeds boast a seven-point lead over fourth placed Fulham and Scott Parker's men know that to beat the Whites on Saturday would be to pile pressure on Marcelo Bielsa's men. 

Bielsa's side slipped to a loss at Cardiff City in their first game back after the restart of the Championship, but they remain firm favourites to go up to the Premier League automatically.

Stressing the unpredictable nature of the Championship, Fulham midfielder Reed feels that in spite of Leeds being the favourites heading to the match, the Cottagers should have belief about winning at Elland Road.

"This league's crazy, we weren't expecting those results for West Brom and Leeds", Reed told his club's official site.

"So now we go to Leeds and we've got to believe that we can turn them over, and that's what we'll be trying to do.

"If you look at our fixtures, we've got to play Leeds, West Brom and Forest, so it's in our hands.

"We need to go to Elland Road and put them under pressure from the outset, stamp our authority on the game, and show a reaction.

"We all know that we need to show a reaction and get a positive result there."

Fulham have been pushed into fourth place in the Championship after Brentford beat West Brom on Friday night.



http://www.insidefutbol.com/2020/06/26/believe-we-can-beat-leeds-united-fulham-star-tells-team-mates/460574/

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Preview: Leeds United v Fulham



We preview Saturday's fixture.

Leeds United entertain Fulham at Elland Road on Saturday, in what can only be described a as a huge 'six pointer'.  Fulham currently sit in fourth spot, seven points behind the Whites, with eight games remaining.  A Cottagers win would pull the London side right into the automatic promotion race, but a victory for Marcelo Bielsa's side would all but end Fulham's automatic promotion hopes.  At Craven Cottage earlier in the season, Scott Parker's side ran out winners and Leeds will be looking for revenge this time around.

Manager/head coach

Leeds United: Marcelo Bielsa

Fulham: Scott Parker

League position

Leeds United: 2nd

Fulham: 3rd

Form

Leeds United: WWWWL

Fulham: DWWDL

Top scorer

Leeds United: Patrick Bamford (13)

Fulham: Aleksandar Mitrovic (23)

Head to head

Leeds United wins: 22

Draws: 15

Fulham wins: 19

Last time at Elland Road

Tuesday 15th August 2015

Leeds United 0

Fulham 0

Team news

Pablo Hernandez could return for Leeds after missing the trip to Cardiff City last weekend in a boost for Marcelo Bielsa's side.  For Fulham, Aboubakar Kamara remains doubtful after missing last week's defeat to Brentford through injury.

Officials

Referee - Tony Harrington

Assistant Referee 1 - Steven Meredith

Assistant Referee 2 - Shaun Hudson

Fourth Official - Geoff Eltringham

The key battle

Ben White v Aleksandar Mitrovic

Striker Mitrovic is the joint leading marksman in the division with 23 goals to his name.  He was on the score-sheet in the reverse fixture earlier in the season and will be looking to add to his tally at Elland Road.  Leeds defender Ben White will be looking to keep the Serbian at bay, with a commanding performance in defence.

Latest odds

Leeds United: 8/11

Draw: 13/5

Fulham: 19/5

(Odds correct at time of article published)



https://www.leedsunited.com/news/team-news/26708/preview-leeds-united-v-fulham

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Pedro Pereira: Bristol City right-back out for four weeks with thigh injury

Bristol City right-back Pedro Pereira could miss the rest of the Championship season after suffering a thigh injury.

The 22-year-old Portuguese, who is on loan from Benfica, tore a thigh muscle in Saturday's loss at Blackburn.

Following scan results, he is expected to be out for up to four weeks.

Bristol City's final league game of the regular season is scheduled for 22 July, in four weeks' time, but the 10th-placed Robins hope to reach the promotion play-offs.

Only three points separate Preston North End in sixth place from Derby County in 12th.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/53187263

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'There's no getting away from how big this game is': Stuart Dallas insists Leeds' Premier League push won't hinge on huge clash with Fulham

    Leeds face Fulham on a blockbuster weekend in the race for the Premier League
    Stuart Dallas insists the clash will not define their promotion hopes
    Marcelo Bielsa's side can move 10 points clear of the Cottagers with victory

Leeds' long push for promotion will not be defined by Saturday's clash with rivals Fulham or this blockbuster weekend in the race for the Premier League.

That's according to Stuart Dallas, whose side can move 10 points clear of the Cottagers with victory at Elland Road.

'There's no getting away from how big the game is,' said Dallas.

'It's a chance to extend the gap between us and them. But I don't think it's the be-all, end-all if I'm honest. No matter what happens there's still a lot of football to be played between now and the end of the season.'

He added: 'Even if we win or we don't win there's still seven games to play.'

Leeds began the weekend in the second automatic promotion place, behind West Brom only on goal difference.

But their push for the top flight hit a bump in the road last week, when they were beaten 2-0 by Cardiff City.

That came after Brentford had won at Fulham to strengthen their own hopes of reaching the promised land.

'This Championship is crazy. You see it every year,' Dallas said.

'We could go 10 points clear of Fulham and it would be great, but we've just got to keep concentrating on ourselves.'

Fulham boss Scott Parker agreed with Dallas that this weekend will not make or break the race for automatic promotion.

'We live currently in a world which every day brings up surprises, and certainly when it comes to football,' he said.

'Leeds last weekend went and got beat by Cardiff, and that's no disrespect to Cardiff but you maybe wouldn't have thought that.'

He added: '(It's) a big game, of course it is, but I do still see there being an opening (if Fulham lose)...

'I firmly believe there's going to be many twists along the way.' Leeds will look to return to winning ways today, supported by thousands of cardboard cut-outs after fans paid £25 for a seat at Elland Road for the remaining home games.

'It's obviously disappointing that they're not going to be able to be there to see the games, but 15,000 cardboard cut-outs or whatever, is absolutely incredible,' Dallas said.

'It's a bit strange playing in an empty stadium, but we've a job to do and we've got to get on with it.' Leeds were beaten in last year's play-offs by Derby and Dallas said this week that there will be no shortage of people hoping they slip up once more.

'There are lot of people who want to see us fail,' he said. 'It spurs us on.. As players we have to feed off that and try and get the job done.'

Bielsa will still be without the suspended Kiko Casilla and the injured Adam Forshaw for today's visit of Fulham.

Pablo Hernandez could return, however, having recovered from a muscular problem.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-8464837/Stuart-Dallas-insists-Leeds-Premier-League-push-wont-hinge-huge-clash-Fulham.html

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Real Madrid interested in signing 24-year-old Fulham loanee – An ideal backup for Casemiro?

Why Real should make a move for Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa

As per La Razon (h/t Leeds Live), Real Madrid are interested in signing Fulham midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa in the summer. The Cameroonian is currently on loan at Villarreal.

Anguissa, 24, started his career with Cotonsport in his homeland and joined Stade Reims in 2014, from where he came through the youth ranks. However, he made a breakthrough with Marseille in the 2015/16 season and after making 106 appearances for the French outfit, he was signed by Fulham in the summer of 2018.

After the Cottagers were relegated to the Championship, Anguissa moved on loan to Villareal last summer. Since then, he has been in top form in La Liga and his impressive performances have also garnered the attention of Atletico Madrid, as per the report. Thus, Los Blancos should make a move for him in the summer.

Zinedine Zidane's men have been brilliant so far. After a poor last season, they have managed to put everything behind and are now atop the league table, equal in points with Barcelona but with a better head-to-head record with the Catalans.

Real Madrid's attacking and defensive units have performed at their best. While they have managed to score 59 goals in 31 league games this season, the defence, led by Sergio Ramos has conceded just 21 goals so far as they boast of the best defensive record in the La Liga this term.

However, with the season coming to its business end, it is time for the manager to look ahead to the next season. Despite having a world-class squad, Zidane should bring in reinforcements to a few key areas.

Anguissa could be the perfect back up for Casemiro in Madrid's midfield
One key area which the manager should focus on strengthening is the defensive midfield position. Los Blancos have a plethora of attack-minded midfielders in their midst. But Casemiro is the only deep-lying midfielder in the squad. The Brazilian has been one of the best and important players in the squad.

The former FC Porto man has featured in 28 games so far, racking up 3 goals and 2 assists but his defensive duties have been highly regarded. However, there is no proper back up for Casemiro after Marcos Llorente departed to Atletico Madrid last summer. Thus, a defensive midfielder should be a priority for Real Madrid in the summer.

In that regard, Villarreal's Anguissa would be a suitable option for the club. The Cameroon international has been solid for his loan club this season. He has featured in all but 2 league games for the mid-table La Liga side, scoring and assisting one goal apiece.

He would prove to be a valuable addition to Madrid, given his recent successful form. The 24-year-old's inclusion would also allow the manager to rest Casemiro in needed times.

Verdict
Real Madrid lack numbers in the defensive midfield position and Casemiro is the only option available. Thus, signing Anguissa would do them a world of good. He would also go on to represent them in the long run as he is just 24.



https://www.mediareferee.com/2020/06/27/why-real-should-make-a-move-for-andre-franck-zambo-anguissa/

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Rhys' Pieces: The incalculable future of Aleksandar Mitrović

As even the most sceptical Fulham fans begin to consider that another season of Championship football might be on the horizon, the future of Aleksandar Mitrović has become a rather worrying uncertainty. In an attempt to boost moral, Rhys Daly has taken a look at what the Serbian hitman might be thinking before the final eight fixtures of the regular season.

Aleksandar Mitrović has been vocal about his love for Fulham and their supporters since his loan move from Newcastle back in January of 2018.

The clinical Serbian was crying out for a new home that would bring his turbulent spell at St James Park to a close, and he found that in abundance on the banks of the Thames.

Despite a positive, but underwhelming, return of 11 goals in 37 top flight outings, many were astonished to see the 25-year-old commit to another year in the second division, and should the Whites remain in the Championship next season – there is sure to be further interest from the promised land of the Premier League.

In the hope of keeping fans focused on the task at hand, I have delved into the archives to recount each time Mitrovic has described his adoration for Fulham – and why it would take a tremendous offer for the striker to go in search of a move away when the window is to reopen.

Mitro's connection with Slaviša Jokanović was well documented following his initial switch, in particular the WhatsApp exchange that saw him snub a move to Middlesbrough with just hours left until the deadline.

He would go on to repay the faith of the manager with 12 goals in just 17 appearances, helping Fulham all the way to an unforgettable 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Wembley.

On that emotional day Mitro gave fans another boost with a ringing endorsement that would hint at a permanent move.

He said: "Of course I am really happy here. I had the best three and a half, four months of my career'

Before adding: "The fans really help a lot and I think I play some of the best football in my life, the last four months."

Mitrovic would get his wish after the two clubs agreed an initial fee of £22million the following July – on a contract that was to run until June 2023, which has since been extended a further year.

Although he would go on to play under three different permanent managers and Fulham would be embarrassed after a bold summer of spending, Mitrovic came out with his head held higher than most thanks to his 11 goal haul.

After relegation was finally confirmed, attentions soon turned back to the future of our star striker, but his statement after the 1-0 win over Bournemouth eased fears.

He said: "Ever since we are relegated, the Fulham fans are unbelievable, can say we have the best fans in the world. Everywhere we go, our stand is full, home too. World class."

In August of last year Mitrovic issued his desire for Fulham to secure instant promotion, stating his commitment to the cause with a rousing promise to supporters.

He told The Sun: "I'm not the guy who'll run away from a problem. I didn't leave Newcastle when they got relegated three years ago so I'm not leaving here now.

"I'm here because this club gave me and my family a lot of love when I was in a difficult situation. Now I'm not going to leave the club when they're in a difficult situation."

Before adding: "In my first home game against Nottingham Forest. After the match, I felt really great after what had been a great atmosphere. The place was bouncing.

"It was middle of the season and the stadium was full. Since day one, I felt at home."

In what is hopefully a sign that his time at Fulham will go on for several seasons, his love for the club, the fans and the city has never gone unspoken.

He continued: "My ambition in football is to feel passion and play with all my heart every game.

"And I've found my love and happiness here. I've everything I want — from respect from the club, the way they treat me and the love the fans, players and staff give me.

"Every time I walk on to the Craven Cottage pitch, I feel happy. It's a fantastic old stadium that has old English soul with the fans so close to the pitch creating such a great atmosphere with so much passion.

"Some things you cannot buy with money. I wake up and feel happiness. I look forward to training. You just cannot put a price on that."

The future of Scott Parker could also play a part in his plans, with Mitrovic praising the former West Ham and England midfielder earlier in the current campaign.

He said of the managers he has played under at Craven Cottage: "Slav set high standards and I'm convinced had he not left we'd have had a great chance of staying up.

"We weren't playing well at the time and in football if you don't get results fast then the manager goes.

"It was difficult for Claudio [Ranieri] to come in and want to change the way we played. From playing high up, Claudio wanted us to sit further back and he just didn't have time to adapt us.

"But Scotty learned a lot from Slav and the way they see football and the system they use is almost the same.

"Scott becoming manager permanently was one of the main reasons why I stayed because I love working with him and feel not just me but the whole squad will improve with him.

"I've never heard one bad thing said about Scott — not from the cleaner, the chef, the physio, the players. Everyone likes him.

"And that's why he's special — he makes everybody feel important. Everyone puts in their whole."

Mitrovic would issue another statement outlining his undying commitment to the club as recently as March, telling FourFourTwo that not only does he love his current club – but that his family are thriving.

The father of two said when asked about the possibility of leaving Fulham: "Honestly, I don't think about that.

"I'm with Fulham because I love the club, my family is happy here, and I love the challenge of the Championship. Players who haven't played in it or don't watch it can say it's easier, but trust me: it's a hard league."

His most recent plea suggests that he has never been more grateful to wear the white shirt of Fulham, and with any luck that will equate to more goals during the final eight fixtures.

Even if Fulham should miss out on both automatic and playoff promotion, it is hard to see any offer coming in that would convince Mitrovic to leave London – and hopefully his loyalty to his current employer won't be put to the test.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2020-06-26-rhys-pieces-the-incalculable-future-of-aleksandar-mitrovic/

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Scott Parker outlines potential impact of Leeds United hosting Fulham with no crowd
FULHAM boss Scott Parker says the absence of a crowd could either be a help or a hindrance to Leeds United and Fulham in Saturday's Championship showdown at Eland Road.

The automatic promotion crunch clash will be both sides' second game back after the 15-week pause to the season due to the coronavirus pandemic with all remaining games being played behind closed doors.

United will be 'cheered on' in spirit by over 15,000 crowdies - life-size cut outs of Leeds fans - but Parker says there are arguments to be made over whether the lack of a crowd could be seen as a positive or negative for both sides.

"There's no hiding that Elland Road, with the Leeds fans and the intensity they build, they have a fantastic support," Parker stated.

"It's always a very hostile and difficult place to go. With no fans, that could have a positive effect.

"Saying that, I also believe that there are a lot of players who thrive off that intensity.

"It could work both ways.

"Leeds players would obviously want their fans behind them, like we wanted our fans behind us at the weekend, but on the flip side of that, the hostility of a stadium sometimes when you're away from home is something that brings a siege mentality to a team.

"It could be a positive or it could be a negative, we'll just have to wait and see."



https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/scott-parker-outlines-potential-impact-leeds-united-hosting-fulham-no-crowd-2896980

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Championship Promotion Battle Reaches Pinnacle as Leeds United Host Fulham

Leeds United host Fulham on Saturday afternoon, their first home game in 111 days. Both teams took a hit in their promotion push as both tasted defeat in their first game since the season restarted.

Promotion Six Pointer as Leeds United host Fulham
Head to Head

Fulham will be looking to do the double over their promotion rivals. Doing this would see them move four points behind their opponents. In the reverse fixture, the London club scored a goal in either half through Aleksandar Mitrovic and Josh Onomah to take the points. Patrick Bamford equalised for Leeds, before Onomah got the winner for Fulham.

Both teams lost their first game back after the season restarted. Leeds were beaten 2-0 by play-off chasing Cardiff City. Elsewhere, Fulham's return to Craven Cottage wasn't a happy one, as they were beaten 2-0 by fourth-placed Brentford.

Team News

Leeds fans will be happy to hear that Pablo Hernandez has trained this week after missing out on the game against Cardiff last week. Meanwhile, Adam Forshaw remains out as he continued recovering from hip surgery. Kiko Casilla will also be missing as he serves his fourth match in his eight-game ban.

For Fulham, Ivan Cavaleiro looks set to start after coming off the bench in the defeat to Brentford. Scott Parker isn't likely to make any other changes, but is set to have a fully fit squad as Alfie Mawson has recovered from injury.

Score Prediction

This is a must win game for both teams, which could make for a cagey affair between the two sides, with only one goal separating the teams.

A win for Fulham will move them four points behind Leeds, whilst a win for the home side will see them move 10 points away from Fulham and looking more likely to finally get that automatic promotion place after many years of falling short.

Prediction: Leeds United 1 – 2 Fulham



https://lastwordonfootball.com/2020/06/27/championship-promotion-battle-reaches-pinnacle-as-leeds-united-host-fulham/

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Neil Warnock: New Middlesbrough manager wants to get confidence back

"At least I've got eight games without being booed by anybody, it'll be very strange for me that."

Neil Warnock's latest managerial quest - the 16th different club he has taken over - has come in strange times.

With fans barred from grounds because of the coronavirus pandemic, Warnock's eight games in charge at Middlesbrough may be the easiest in terms of his ears, but the 71-year-old knows he has a tough challenge ahead to save the club from relegation.

"It is serious, it's no good kidding everybody," Warnock told BBC Radio Tees after taking his first training session on Tuesday.

'They've got to work hard'

It is unlikely Warnock has ever started a job in more unusual circumstances. His first time on the training ground had to be put back until 15:00 BST so he and long-serving assistant Kevin Blackwell could get negative results back from their mandatory Covid-19 tests.

When the session did eventually get under way he said he wanted to see his players give it their all.

"You're not down there out of the bottom three on goal difference without something being wrong. It's not all bad luck at this stage of the season," he added.

"We've just got to get confidence back and let the lads try and express themselves and enjoy it.

"First and foremost, they've got to work hard; they've got to work their socks off for me.

"I won't ever criticise a player if they do that and then they have a bad game on the ball, I don't mind that. It's when some lads leave a little bit in the dressing room that I'm not happy.

"I want total commitment from them all - the lads who are starting the game and subs that come on - and let's get those points that guarantee safety."

Man-management the key

Warnock is no stranger to turning tides around. Most recently he helped Rotherham survive in the Championship in 2016.

The following season he took over at Cardiff City when they were second from bottom and ended up getting promoted to the top flight 20 months later - a record fourth promotion to the Premier League.

Having succeeded Jonathan Woodgate on Tuesday, the Yorkshireman hopes he can sprinkle some of that gold dust on a Middlesbrough side who are flirting with relegation to the third tier for the first time in 33 years.

"You might have all the degrees and all the diplomas, but man-management is still the main ingredient for getting success," he said.

"You've got to have ability, but having ability won't get you success, you've got to have what goes with it and that combination of working hard and ability as well.

"If you can get players functioning who have got a lot of ability and they want to work hard for you, that's utopia."

Utopia for Boro fans will be simply staying in the division. They came down after a single season in the top fight in 2017 and finished fifth in the Championship the following season, before losing 1-0 over two legs to Aston Villa in the play-off semi-finals.

Having missed out on the top six by a point last May, Boro dispensed with Tony Pulis and a number of their high-earning players as the financial realities of missing out on a return to the top flight bit.

But hometown hero Woodgate and a newer crop of young players, many of whom had little second-tier experience, have struggled.

Only one win since New Year's Day has seen Boro tumble down the table, and but for the even worse form of Hull City - the Tigers have got two points to Boro's five since both registered wins on 1 January - they would be in the bottom three.

Key games away against fellow strugglers Stoke City and then Hull are first up for Warnock, but he is typically confident that Boro can stay up.

"I don't think ability's lacking, there's a lot of ability in the squad," he added.

"It's amazing that when things aren't right how your confidence goes and you don't do what you probably would do in a normal game.

"I'm just hoping I can bring a little bit of confidence and knowhow to get them lifting their heads and enjoying the challenge."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/53163101

[WhiteJC]

'Must win', 'No repeat of last season' – Many Leeds United fans feeling anxious ahead of Fulham after last night's result

After Brentford's 1-0 win over West Bromwich Albion last night, it's made Leeds United fans even more cautious of picking up three points today.

Marcelo Bielsa's side take on 4th-place Fulham today. It's another huge game at the top of the Championship after another last night – Ollie Watkins' 23rd goal of the season taking the Bees over the line at Griffin Park.

It means that Thomas Frank's side have won both their games since the restart, and they now sit just five points behind leaders West Brom and 2nd-place Leeds United.

The return couldn't have gone any worse for Leeds who succumbed to a 2-0 defeat to Cardiff City. But they face a contested Fulham side who've often proved inconsistent this season, but the for the goals of Aleksandar Mitrovic keeping them in the hunt for promotion.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/must-win-no-repeat-of-last-season-many-leeds-united-fans-feeling-anxious-ahead-of-fulham-after-last-nights-result/

[WhiteJC]

Tense and tight' – Jeff Stelling & Matt Le Tissier predict score in huge Leeds v Fulham clash

Jeff Stelling and the Sky Sports pundits have delivered their predictions for the huge clash between Leeds United and Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

And, while it's a mixed bag, the good news is that none of them have Leeds down as losing.

Brentford beat West Brom on Friday night to move within five points of the top two.

Fulham would leapfrog them and move to within four of Leeds and West Brom with a win.

However, none of the Sky boys thinks that's going to happen.

Jeff Stelling is predicting a 0-0, Charlie Nicholas and Phil Thomspon think Leeds will win 2-1 and Matt Le Tissier thinks the sides will share the spoils in a 1-1 draw.

Writing on Sky ahead of the 3pm kick-off on Saturday Stelling said, "We saw with both Leeds and Fulham losing last week that the tense and tight affairs can get to the two teams.

"Neither one of these will want to make a mistake, with so much on the line.

"Leeds will remain seven points ahead of Fulham and will definitely be the happier coming out of this weekend.

"It will be a telling weekend for the Championship."

Leeds are looking for revenge after a 2-1 defeat to Fulham back in December.

As usual, Leeds absolutely dominated that game with 65% of possession and 15 shots to Fulham's seven.

Fulham had one big chance in the game and ended up winning 2-1. [Stats: SofaScore]

Patrick Bamford did get a goal though, with a simple tap-in at the back post, and Leeds fans will be desperately hoping he can get on the scoresheet today.

A win would be huge for Leeds after the result last night. It would see them move three points clear at the top with an increased eight-point gap back to third place, now taken by Brentford.

It would leave Fulham 10 behind with seven to play and surely looking at consolidating in the play-offs than realistically attacking the top two.

A draw wouldn't be the worst result but this is a big opportunity for Marcelo Bielsa and his players – especially with rock-bottom side Luton up next at Elland Road.



https://motleedsnews.com/matchday/tense-and-tight-jeff-stelling-matt-le-tissier-predict-score-in-huge-leeds-v-fulham-clash/

[WhiteJC]

Exclusive: Bruce tips Leeds forward to 'Definitely' be axed v Fulham after Bielsa update

Alex Bruce insists he would axe one of the Leeds United forwards to bring Pablo Hernandez back into the starting XI against Fulham on Saturday.

The former Leeds and Hull City defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge, claims the Spanish veteran is "so valuable" to Marcelo Bielsa's men that he would do what he can to get him back playing.

The 35-year-old missed the defeat to Cardiff through injury but Bielsa confirmed he had trained all this week ahead of Saturday's visit of the Cottagers.

Bruce believes that with only a handful of games remaining this season, he would roll the dice and throw Hernandez back into the starting XI at the expense of one of his teammates.

Asked if he would take the risk on playing the Spanish maestro, Bruce told Football Insider: "Yeah, definitely because when you get to this stage of the season your experienced players are going to be key.

"He'll be a healthy addition to the team if he's fit. I think with so little games to go, if he's fit, he's so valuable to the team I think I probably would (throw him back in).

"We've seen Harry Kane and people like that who have performed well after having layoffs and yeah, I think if he's fit, he'll play."

Tyler Roberts took Hernandez's place in the starting XI against Cardiff, while Kalvin Phillips also returned after missing the last game before lockdown.

The Whites currently sit behind West Brom in the Championship table, with Fulham seven points behind in third.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-bruce-tips-leeds-forward-to-definitely-be-axed-v-fulham-after-bielsa-update/

[WhiteJC]

TT Predicts: Leeds United face Fulham in Championship promotion clash

Leeds United face a must-win Championship clash with Fulham on Saturday afternoon as the promotion race hots up in England's second tier.

Marcelo Bielsa's side returned to action last week after not playing since early March due to the pandemic, but the result against Cardiff City did not go the right way for the Argentine tactician.

Dropping to second in the league table behind Slaven Bilic's West Bromwich Albion, Leeds are still very much in pole position to join the Baggies in gaining automatic promotion to the Premier League, sitting seven points ahead of Saturday's rivals Fulham.

Fulham will be hoping a win against Leeds will give them some momentum to push for a top-two spot in the Championship but they also got off to a poor restart last week, losing to Brentford.

Looking ahead to the game, Transfer Tavern's writing team have given their predictions...

Ben Crump

Are Leeds going to fall at the last hurdle again? That is exactly the question fans will be asking themselves after seeing them lose out via the play-offs last season. It was a strange performance last time out against Cardiff and you have to wonder if they have run out of steam. Patrick Bamford must look himself in the mirror and attempt to break what is a second poor goal scoring run this season. Fulham can be very dangerous at times but they also performed at a very poor level last time out, losing to Brentford. This game is a hard one to predict. 1-0.

Liam Togher

Both teams suffered setbacks last weekend in their chase for promotion and, despite their lofty league positions, both seem to have an air of inconsistency about them. It can be hard to know what to expect from either side and I think they could cancel each other out with a draw that does neither much good in their respective aims. 1-1.

Adam Clancy

This is a big game between 2nd and 3rd, especially since Leeds and Fulham both lost to play-off hopefuls Cardiff and Brentford respectively last time out. Tough one to call, but I think Bielsa's side will just edge it with their extra quality and home advantage. It could go either way, but I'll go with the Whites, just. 2-1.

Jonathan Radcliffe

Leeds were so close to confirming promotion to the Premier League last season, but their lack of nerve ended up costing them dearly. Following their 2-0 defeat against Cardiff, many may be expecting the same thing to happen this time around. Fortunately, Fulham's 2-0 defeat to Brentford means the Whites remain seven points clear of third place, but this is a huge game for Marcelo Bielsa and co.

A loss here would see the gap closed to four points, and the pressure would truly be on. In all fairness, though, despite the 2-0 defeat against the Bluebirds, Leeds dominated possession and had 17 shots at goal. As the Cottagers will probably play a more open style of play, Leeds should be able to pick off their opponents far easier. It should still be a close one, but I expect Bielsa to right the wrongs of last week. 2-1.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds-united-news/tt-predicts-leeds-united-face-fulham-in-championship-promotion-clash/

[WhiteJC]

'Well done lads' Brentford fans comment after defeating West Brom

It was two-from-two for Brentford tonight in their return from lockdown to Championship football. Tonight it was leaders West Bromwich Albion who were to Ball victim of the Bees incisive attack. Last weekend it was Fulham put to the sword.

That's two wins, two cleans sheets, three goals and six points for Thomas Frank's side. That's two of the top three put away by Brentford as they inch closer to Leeds United in 2nd. This win takes the Bees above their fellow Londoners Fulham and just five points behind the Whites.

Fulham take on Leeds tomorrow at Elland Road and could regain 3rd spot from their London neighbours with a win in West Yorkshire.

But, today is not about that. It is about the Bees continued resurgence and push for the automatic promotion places. It was a game decided by a single goal from the lethal boot of Ollie Watkins. That goal was his 23rd of the season and sees the Bees front free edge closer to a combined 50 goals between them.

When you look at Brentford, it is hard to look beyond that three-pronged attack of Watkins (23 goals), Bryan Mbeumo (14 goals) and Said Benrahma (11 goals) but the Londoners are more than that. They are solid at the back with goalkeeper David Raya dependable and Pontus Jansson and Ethan Pinnock in front of him.

It was a fantastic victory for Brentford and it really opens up the race for promotion. Here are some of the reactions of Brentford fans to this tweet from the club:

3 points closer ...

🐝 1-0 🔰#BrentfordFC #BREWBA pic.twitter.com/G9QU7UUYcv

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) June 26, 2020

https://the72.co.uk/175799/well-done-lads-brentford-fans-comment-after-defeating-west-brom/

[WhiteJC]

BBC pundit says Leeds United player cannot be a 'passenger'... again

Noel Whelan said on BBC Radio Leeds (6:09pm, Friday, June 26, 2020) that Patrick Bamford cannot be a passenger for Leeds United against Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

The former Leeds striker, who now works as a pundit for BBC Radio Leeds, was not impressed with the display produced by Bamford against Cardiff City last weekend.

Whelan has urged the former Chelsea and Nottingham Forest striker to step up his game against Fulham this afternoon.

Marcelo Bielsa's side will take on the Cottagers in the Championship at Elland Road in a few hours' time.

Whelan said on BBC Radio Leeds (6:09pm, Friday, June 26, 2020): "We need a Patrick Bamford who works the line. It wasn't just about the chances he missed when opportunities came his way.

"He's usually a lot more aggressive, more mobile, more involved in the game. I feel he was a passenger [against Cardiff] and we can't have that.

"He's our only striker, our number nine and we need him to lead the line with aggression, with confidence and belief. That's what he needs, more belief in himself."

Stats

Bamford struggled to make an impact for Leeds in their 2-0 defeat to Cardiff away from home at the Cardiff City Stadium in the Championship last weekend.

According to WhoScored, the 26-year-old striker took two shots which were not on target, played one key pass, had a pass accuracy of 66.7%, won one header, and took 22 touches.

So far this season, the Englishman has made 36 starts and one substitute appearances in the Championship for Leeds, scoring 13 goals and providing two assists in the process, according to WhoScored.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/06/27/bbc-pundit-says-leeds-united-regular-cannot-be-a-passenger-again/

[filham]

Oh that post above on tactics is complex. Some of the phrases are new surely, "quarter backing"," compressed4-3-2-1",
"inside forward/right wing back hybrid."

Some of the old farts like myself bred on the " W formation" with wingers, inside forwards and wing halves are soon going to need translations.

[WhiteJC]

TT Battle: Patrick Bamford v Aleksandar Mitrovic

Leeds United face off against Fulham on Saturday in a mouth watering Championship tie and the game will throw up a superb player battle between Patrick Bamford and Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Marcelo Bielsa's side currently sit second in the Championship league table after defeat to Cardiff City last weekend but they remain on course for an automatic promotion to the Premier League, sitting level on points with league leaders West Bromwich Albion.

Fulham, who will arrive at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon, sit seven points behind Leeds and Scott Parker will undoubtedly be looking to grab an important three points that could push them closer to the top-two places.

Heading into the game, focus will very much be on two of the Championship's top strikers in Bamford and Mitrovic, and we have taken a closer look into the 2019/2020 campaigns for each striker.

Patrick Bamford
26-year-old striker Bamford has been the preferred option in Marcelo Bielsa's side this season and has contributed with an impressive 13 goals in the league thus far.

That amount of goals is not a bad return from the former Middlesbrough man in the grand scale of things, but it could have been a lot more had he not suffered a mid-season goal drought.

The drought came during February when Bamford failed to net a single league goal, and his strike against Huddersfield just before the pandemic means he has managed to net just once in his last nine games.

Looking deeper in to the former Chelsea youngster's form this term, a goal participation of 28% is something that Bielsa will be hoping he can improve on moving forward, as is the fact that he has missed 27 big chances this term – a league high.

Whilst he has done well to net 13, there is no doubting that Bamford could have done better.

Aleksandar Mitrovic
Former Newcastle United striker Mitrovic has found himself once again the talisman for Fulham this term and his goal return of 23 goals in 35 games makes him one of the most prolific strikers in English football.

The Serbian statistics are quite similar to that of his Saturday opponent in the fact that he has had 3.9 shots per game, but the fact is, that the 25-year-old has simply been more clinical.

Of Fulham's goals this term, Mitrovic is response for almost half of them (46%) and that is exactly the sort of impression any striker's wishes to make on a side.

With Fulham creeping up behind Leeds, a big performance from their top scorer on Saturday could change the landscape of the promotion race.

TT Grade: A

The Verdict

For the majority, you would not argue that Mitrovic is the one striker who would prefer in your team but if Leeds beat Fulham to an automatic promotion place, Bamford will have bragging rights.

Looking deeper in to the duo's statistics, it is hard to see how Leeds boss Bielsa continues to stick with Bamford but he must have his reasons. On balance and everything considered, Mitrovic is the better, more ruthless striker.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds-united-news/tt-battle-patrick-bamford-v-aleksandar-mitrovic/