Saturday Fulham Stuff - 29/08/20...

[WhiteJC]

 Eberechi Eze: Crystal Palace sign forward from QPR
Deal is £16m up front with £4m in potential add-ons; QPR have 20 per cent sell-on clause built into agreement

Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Eberechi Eze from QPR for a fee that could rise to £20m.

Eze, who scored 14 goals in 46 appearances in the Sky Bet Championship for QPR last season, had also attracted interest from Fulham, West Ham and Newcastle but has signed a five-year deal at Selhurst Park.

Palace previously had bids of £8m and £12m rejected, with QPR manager Mark Warburton making clear Eze would only leave if the club's £20m valuation was met. The deal to secure his services is for £16m up front with £4m in potential add-ons.

QPR have a 20 per cent sell-on clause built into the agreement and their director of football Les Ferdinand said: "You never want to lose one of your best players but the situation dictates that it's necessary so that we can, ultimately, grow and progress.

"I have no doubts Ebere will go on to enjoy a fantastic career in the game at the very top level.

"Allied to his natural talent, Ebere is an incredibly motivated, determined and humble individual and that is why there has been so much interest in him from Premier League sides."

Eze said: "As a football club, I feel like there are great players here and it's a brilliant opportunity for me to come and be with these players, to link up with them and to really push on."

Palace chairman Steve Parish feels the deal underlines the club's commitment to buying younger players, and said: "Eberechi is a player whose development we have followed closely. We are delighted he has chosen to sign for us over the other clubs that were interested and we feel that this is the right club for him to continue his development.

"With our Academy recently securing Category 1 status, this further illustrates our focus on youth as we look to consolidate and improve upon our position as a Premier League club."



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11706/12057091/eberechi-eze-crystal-palace-sign-forward-from-qpr

[WhiteJC]

Fulham fans react to reported interest in Tottenham goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga

Tottenham goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga is reportedly attracting interest from newly-promoted Premier League side Fulham – and some of their fans on Twitter have give a positive response to the speculation.

The Telegraph claims that Fulham are preparing a move this summer to try sign the 28-year-old and want to bring him to Craven Cottage to help them with life back in the top-flight.

It is reported that Scott Parker's side are willing to give him the number one goalkeeper position if he makes the move across London.

Fulham managed to earn Championship promotion last season via the play-offs and goalkeeper Marek Rodak made such a positive impact on the season after breaking into the team in October.

The 23-year-old Slovakian is a highly-rated talent that was integral last season, but it looks like he could have real tough competition for his starting spot.

Gazzaniga, 28, has been the understudy at Spurs in recent seasons to Hugo Lloris in goal, but has impressed for them whenever given the opportunity.

The Argentine is a commanding presence with 10 clean sheets in 37 appearances for Spurs over three years and is coming to an age now where surely he wants nailed-on first-team action.

A selection of Fulham supporters on social media are convinced that the Spurs shot-stopper could be a success for them if he joined.

Here are some Fulham fans discussing Gazzaniga:



    I would not be against this tbh. Betts will probably go to Scotland, and Fabri should go. Gazzaniga is a solid keeper in his own right, and could easily push Rodak to get better, or replace him outright...#FFC https://t.co/3hnHCpDDwn

    — Steve Adams (@LondonDude123) August 27, 2020

    A transfer rumour I'm actually excited about @stevefarrugia 👀

    — Colino (@ColinoRG) August 27, 2020

    Yeah, good move. Handsome bloke too.

    — Steve Farrugia 🤠 (@stevefarrugia) August 27, 2020

    Yes if he's a backup no if he's a starter

    — Matthew Cooper (@Matthew70569619) August 27, 2020

    👍🏼 Gazzaniga definitely better than Betts and as you say he would push Rodak

    — Dale (@DaJo177) August 27, 2020

    IMHO Rodak is an unreal keeper and only 23. Could easily be our number one for ten years or so. Without him coming into the team we wouldn't have got promoted. Commanding and a decent shot stopper. Deserves the faith repaid.

    — Ad (@ABronsSmith) August 27, 2020

    Honestly don't think we need a keeper, especially if we keep fabri

    — Ed (@edisthebatman) August 27, 2020

    Gazzaniga would be good but only at a good price. Having 2 top keepers give each other competition would be useful

    — Adam (@AdmWtkns) August 27, 2020



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-fans-react-to-reported-interest-in-tottenham-goalkeeper-paulo-gazzaniga/

[WhiteJC]

Building for the Premier League. Part 2: Defenders

Frankie Taylor is back for part two in his series, as he turns his attention to defenders. Click here to read part 1 on goalkeepers.

So, we move onto the defenders. We've already discussed goalkeepers that you can read here. And below is a reminder of the squad we're building everything on top of this summer.

    Goalkeepers: Marek Rodak, Marcus Bettinelli, Jordan Archer
    Defenders: Denis Odoi, Cyrus Christie, Steven Sessegnon, Michael Hector, Alfie Mawson, Tim Ream, Maxime Le Marchand, Joe Bryan
    Midfielders: Harrison Reed, Kevin McDonald, Stefan Johansen, Josh Onomah, Tom Cairney, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa
    Attackers: Anthony Knockaert, Aboubakar Kamara, Bobby Decordova-Reid, Ivan Cavaleiro, Neeskens Kebano
    Strikers: Aleksandar Mitrovic

Right-back at the start
The back four is interesting. Cyrus Christie holds down the right-back berth, with Denis Odoi challenging him, more so than Steven Sessegnon, who saw playing time reduced to just two league starts since October last season thanks in part to injury.

Christie – much maligned by some Fulham supporters – probably offers the most Ryan Fredericks-like attacking presence of the bunch. While it's unconventional to add a fourth body our pool of right-backs, it's arguably our weakest position in the entire back four.

Potential RB recruits
Matty Cash of Nottingham Forest was excellent all last season. A converted winger, Cash created more chances than any other right back in the Championship last term and is in the top three for tackles and interceptions. Cash will likely have other Premier League eyes on him, given his great year as a 22-year-old Englishman with plenty of football under his belt. The leader appears to be Sheffield United at the time of writing, and with the way they set up their wing backs, it tells you everything you need to know about Cash's energetic and all-action style.

On the more experienced side of English full backs, Nathaniel Clyne has been released by Liverpool, with his last couple of years hampered by injury. He's a former England international and is still only 29; if you get Clyne fully fit and you could reap the rewards of some quality. During a loan spell at Bournemouth at the backend of 18/19, Clyne had starts in both full-back spots in wins over Chelsea, West Ham and Tottenham. He could absolutely plug the hole while you wait for Steven Sessegnon to develop or search the market for a longer-term solution.

Looking further afield, Fabien Centonze has the statistical profile on top of on-field performances to be of interest. Centonze first caught my eye in Metz's 3-0 win over Monaco, where he was excellent in ball recovery, but also a constantly available option down the right-hand side. It was then I wanted to look into him. Information is scarce, but Centonze is a member of the 18/19 Ligue 2 Team of the Season, a league that's been a great source for players at times. His Ligue 2 reputation carried into his debut campaign for Metz with another excellent display against PSG (despite a 2-0 loss). Centonze fits the profile and could be a terrific addition to the squad.

The state of the centre
Centre-back is interesting, Michael Hector made an instant impact upon his official arrival in January but after the return, drew memories of Philippe Senderos, showing the potential to make one or two mistakes. However, we saw enough from January to know he's capable, and the play-off final showed his big-game potential.

His partner so far has exclusively been Tim Ream, who has also shown signs of decline as he approaches 3, and you wonder the security of his position had Terence Kongolo not been injured early on in his loan spell. Alfie Mawson is a mystery. He was possibly a good season away from the England set-up when he joined us, but his inability to stay fit has stalled his career at Craven Cottage before it really started. We still haven't seen the best of Alfie and I would be intrigued to see a partnership with Michael Hector at the back – though the Premier League may not be the playground to try.

Maxime Le Marchand is another enigma. He played more games in the Premier League for Fulham than in the Championship. I would love a fifth option here – particularly as it'd give us more flexibility to have a three-man defence in our back pocket.

CB options
I once held slim dreams us signing of Sven Botman, but his arrival at Lille this summer killed that one. John Brooks of Wolfsburg could be a continuation of FulhAmerica as an experienced centre half who has heaps of top-level experience in the Bundesliga. He's a very good ball player, blessed with the athletic and physical qualities to be a solid Premier League defender. Reports in Germany say Wolfsburg may be open to discussing moves for Brooks with the American previously saying the Premier League is his dream.

As I spit ball a few ideas, what about bringing Chris Smalling back to the Cottage? After a fantastic year at Roma, Manchester United have asked for around £18m, which Roma have seemingly been unwilling to match, though a recent takeover could change things. Whether Smalling (or Vertonghen) would be willing to swap European football and pushing for places around the top of the table for a relegation battle would require a big sell of the project in place at Craven Cottage.

Flying over Germany, Paderborn's Sebastian Schonlau was impressive despite his team being rubbish and relegated from the Bundesliga. Fulham made a similar transfer with Alfie Mawson last time around so may be wary but Schonlau is an active defender with excellent distribution who would (at the very least) fit in with the style of play at the club.

Closer to home, Tosin Adarabioyo has had an excellent campaign on loan at Blackburn Rovers this season. But at 22, after two loan spells away from Manchester City, and knowing they've just splashed £40m on Nathan Ake to partner for Aymeric Laporte while John Stones, Nicolas Otamendi and Eric Garcia also stand in his way, he might want to find a permanent home. How much Adarabioyo would cost is unknown, but he's a promising, former England youth international who's capable of building play from the back as well as being a dominant defensive force.

OK, maybe I'm being too 'Football Manager' with that one, so here's another: Dael Fry is in the last year of his contract at Middlesbrough and the 22-year-old former England youth international has already chalked up 100 Championship appearances after replacing Ben Gibson as Boro's new academy product in the centre of defence.

Fry's passing numbers are damaged by being coached by the less-than-nuanced Jonathan Woodgate and old school Neil Warnock, but he's a much better ball player than his 6ft 4 frame would suggest. A physical presence, Fry is still developing, but will absolutely play consistent Premier League football in his future. The 'Berwick Hills Beckenbauer' would flourish in our style of play and add more bite and a desire to defend alongside Michael Hector. He'd massively benefit as well being around experienced players such as Hector and Ream though may be a longer term project.

At left-back, the good signing of Antonee Robinson from Wigan shores up the area giving Joe Bryan valuable competition with long term potential. I'm really happy with this signing and though unfortunate to be taking advantage of Wigan's situation, it's the biggest cheap no-brainer from the Championship since teams could snap up Nathan Redmond and Jack Butland from Birmingham for a total of about £6m.

Well, that's all for now on the defence. Next up: the midfield...



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2020-08-28-building-for-the-premier-league-part-2-defenders/

[WhiteJC]

Premier League VAR rule changes introduced for 2020/2021 season

As the new Premier League season approaches we thought it was time for a refresher on the five key changes to VAR that we'll be seeing in 2020/21

It may have caught some fans by surprise given how quickly it seems to have come around, but the new English football season will kick off at Wembley on Saturday when Arsenal face Liverpool in the Community Shield.

The fact that the match is coming less than a week on from the previous season's Champions League final needs no explanation by now, but what does is perhaps the idea that there will be some new rules in place around VAR.

After the Premier League agreed that VAR would stay in the division at their annual general meeting earlier this month, it was decided that it would be run in line with FIFA protocol in 2020/21.

This means that the use of it will be slightly different in the Premier League from its debut last season, but how different?


VAR is set to look pretty different in the Premier League in 2020/21 (Image: PETER POWELL/EPA-EFE/REX)

Here are the five key things to look out for:

Referees going to the pitch-side monitor
Perhaps the biggest and most welcome change will see referees encouraged to use the pitch-side monitors more often instead of relying on a voice from Stockley Park, something that we did start to see creeping in towards the end of last season.

Referee Chris Kavanagh was seen using the monitor when he decided to send off Arsenal's Eddie Nketiah against Leicester shortly after the Premier League's restart, and the monitors will be used to allow referees to scrutinise red cards, goals and penalties more often.

TV coverage could make offsides less controversial

Lineson screens are set to be shown much less frequently (Image: BBC)

Although the offside law won't change, the decision to allow fans to see the process of how the VAR comes to a decision is set to be altered.

Last season fans were able to see lines being drawn onto the screen as the most marginal calls were dissected, but that is set to stop in the hope that it will result in less uproar around certain decisions.

The lines will still be drawn, and could potentially be broadcast later to back up a decision, but they are not set to be seen in real time.

Keeping the flag down
In another change that will bring the Premier League in line with competitions across Europe, assistant referees are being asked not to raise their flag for offside during goalscoring opportunities until the passage of play has ended.

If they suspect that there is an offside then they can raise their flag, and then VAR will also check that if a goal is scored when the flag is raised.

Goalkeepers will be watched carefully at penalties
This is the one that has the potential to annoy a lot of people.

Unlike last season, it will now be the VAR's job to monitor whether or not goalkeepers stray off their line when facing penalties, with one of their feet needed to be planted on the line when the ball is struck.

If the keeper saves the spot-kick having moved off their line then it will be retaken, but if anything else occurs - a goal, missing the target or hitting the post directly - then the original kick stands.


VAR will also be keeping an eye on players encroaching into the penalty area on spot-kicks, but they will only order a retake depending on what the encroaching player does.

If an attacking or defending player who is judged to be inside the penalty area when the kick is taken then impacts the play from the rebound - i.e. scores or clears the ball - then they will be penalised.

Either the goal scored from the rebound will be disallowed by VAR, or the penalty will be retaken if the defender at fault has cleared the ball.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/premier-league-var-rule-changes-22591541

[WhiteJC]

Fulham FC Foundation Skills Club Returns

We are excited to announce that a number of our Skills Clubs will restart on Saturday 5th September.

Following an unexpected early finish to the 2019/20 Skills Club season, we are delighted to welcome players back to our up coming sessions.  Our planning and risk assessment process has been incredibly thorough, and we have taken necessary precautions and advice to ensure a safe return to play, including referring to all guidance issued by the Government and The Football Association.

All our coaches have undertaken training on our new procedures to ensure we maintain social distancing, hand hygiene and keep our participants safe.

We have produced updated operational policies to take into account the implications of COVID-19 and created new guidelines for parents and participants attending out activities.

Our number one aim is to make sure everyone is staying safe while having a great time!

Following our initial launch on the 5th, we will be bringing additional sites online as soon as possible and plan to have all our venues up and running by October.

We look forward to seeing you soon.


Skills Club Venues opening Saturday September 5:

Bishops Park, Fulham

Hurlingham Park (Girls Only)

Dundonald Rec, Wimbledon

YMCA Hawker, Kingston


Bookings are open now via fulhamsoccerschools.com



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/august/28/skills-club

[WhiteJC]

Fulham plotting move for Tottenham player that made 18 PL starts last season – report

Fulham are interested making a move to sign Tottenham goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga this summer, according to the Telegraph.

The 28-year-old has two years left on his current deal, but with Spurs having brought in Joe Hart earlier this month, the Argentine's chances of playing regular football next season have decreased significantly – with the ex-England shotstopper in line to overtake him in the pecking order.

Gazzaniga, who joined Tottenham in the summer of 2017 from Southampton, has made 37 appearances in all competitions – with the majority of those coming last term when first-choice Hugo Lloris was sidelined with a dislocated elbow.


The experienced goalkeeper featured in last Saturday's pre-season friendly victory over Ipswich Town, but has generally been unreliable when stepping in for the Frenchman, making costly mistakes in the defeats against both Manchester United and Chelsea last season.

And now, with Spurs having signed an adequate replacement in Hart, the Telegraph believe that Jose Mourinho would be prepared to offload Gazzaniga to the Championship play-off winners, who also have another former Tottenham keeper Jordan Archer in their ranks.



http://www.tottenhamblog.com/2020/08/28/fulham-plotting-move-for-tottenham-player-that-made-18-pl-starts-last-season-report/

[WhiteJC]

Fabrizio Romano provides latest update on Everton's interest in Abdoulaye Doucoure

It is an open secret that Everton are looking to sign a midfielder this summer.

Carlo Ancelotti needs to add a quality central midfielder to his ranks following the departure of Morgan Schneiderlin last season.

The likes of Fabian Delph and Tom Davies have been very inconsistent, while Andre Gomes is yet to return to his best form after a long injury lay-off.

If the widespread reports are to be believed, the Toffees are looking to sign at least two midfielders this summer – Allan from Napoli, and Abdoulaye Doucoure from Watford.

According to transfer guru, Fabrizio Romano, Doucoure wants to join the Toffees but Everton are yet to reach an agreement to sign the midfielder.

The 27-year-old wants to leave Watford following their relegation to the Championship last season. He has been a consistent performer in the Premier League for a while and would be a fantastic signing for Everton.

Competition from Fulham?

According to reports from Téléfoot Chaine, Doucoure has rejected offers from Wolves, Fulham, and Hertha Berlin already as he has set his heart on playing under Ancelotti.

Fulham have been linked with a host of midfielders in recent weeks, and it remains to be seen whether they make a late attempt to sign Doucoure.



https://sportslens.com/fabrizio-romano-provides-latest-update-on-evertons-interest-in-abdoulaye-doucoure/310397/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham and Newcastle 'trying' to sign Serie A striker – Two other PL clubs 'observing' situation

If there's one man who finds himself in a horrible limbo these days, it's Gonzalo Higuaín.

A favourite of Maurizio Sarri's, the striker played under the manager at Napoli, Chelsea and Juventus, but with Andrea Pirlo now in charge, things have changed drastically.

The Argentina international isn't wanted, and there is a need to find him an exit point which is far more difficult than it sounds. but there are apparently options in the Premier League, with both Fulham and Newcastle allegedly interested.

That's according to Corriere dello Sport, who claim the Cottagers and the Magpies are 'trying' to sign the striker, who found the back of the net 11 times in 44 appearances last season.

Aston Villa and West Ham are also mentioned, but they are only said to be 'observing' the situation for now, clearly one step behind Scott Parker's and Steve Bruce's clubs.

Juventus want to sell Higuaín, but we'll have to wait and see if anyone actually comes in with an offer.

Our guess here is both Fulham and Newcastle are trying to find out what a deal for Higuaín would entail, because there's no mention of bids or contract talks.

Either way, the interest appears to be there.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-newcastle-trying-sign-serie-striker-two-pl-clubs-observing-situation/

[WhiteJC]

From Portugal: Details of Fulham's offer for midfielder – Possibility of further negotiation

We finally have some more details on the reported offer Fulham made for Benfica midfielder Florentino Luís.

The Whites' attempt to sign the 21-year-old was reported on Monday by newspaper Record, who didn't know how much was put on the table.

Now it's time for A Bola to come up with more information. They say Fulham's offer was made at the end of last week, and it took a few days for Benfica to respond to it.

It's said the Premier League side wanted Florentino Luís on a loan deal, and were willing to pay €1m for it. Then there'd be a buying option worth €18m at the end of the season.

Benfica considered the numbers to be too low, but despite turning down the offer, they've shown there's a margin of negotiation. That's why it's 'likely' that Fulham will try again in the coming days.

Although the numbers should change, A Bola says the formula would remain the same, which is a loan with an option to buy.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/portugal-details-fulhams-offer-midfielder-possibility-negotiation/

[WhiteJC]

'Don't sell, £20m': Some Tottenham fans react to reports club want to buy their player

Many Tottenham Hotspur fans do not seem to be keen on the rumours that Paulo Gazzaniga could join Fulham.

The Telegraph suggest that Fulham are lining up a bid for the Tottenham stopper.

While it is not claimed that Spurs will sell Gazzaniga, it is suggested that the lure of first-team football may appeal to him at Fulham.

But Spurs fans are worried about the rumours and suggest that they would not like to see Gazzaniga sold, unless a big fee comes in.

Tottenham have brought in Joe Hart in goal, so they are well stocked between the sticks now.

Gazzaniga has proved himself as one of the more reliable back-up goalkeepers in the Premier League though.

The 28-year-old had to play for much of last campaign, as Hugo Lloris was injured.

At Fulham he would surely have a chance to prove his quality, and that may be tempting for a goalkeeping of his ability.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/08/28/dont-sell-20m-some-tottenham-fans-react-to-reports-club-want-to-buy-their-player/

[WhiteJC]

EFL Trophy Fixture Dates Confirmed

Dates and times have been confirmed for our Group H EFL Trophy fixtures.

Our Under-21s will begin their cup campaign against League Two side Cambridge United on Tuesday, September 8, kick-off 7:45pm.

Peterborough United will follow just under a month later, with our young Whites facing the League One outfit on Tuesday, October 6, kick-off 7:45pm.

The final group game sees us face League One Burton Albion on Tuesday, November 10, kick-off 7:45pm.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/august/28/efl-trophy-fixtures

[WhiteJC]

Every Premier League game may be shown on TV after 3pm blackout lifted - let's hope it's only temporary
The lifting of the blackout means fans will be able to stay home and watch matches - great for now, but it must not be permanent

The news that the Saturday 3pm TV blackout will be lifted when the new season starts, as reported by The Times, could have a lasting impact on British football.

The announcement means all Premier League matches will almost certainly be made available to broadcast to British viewers from September 12 - including games played at the previously sacrosanct 3pm slot.

Championship, League One and League Two matches will also be available to watch, either on Sky or streamed through the EFL ifollow platform.

The blackout is an integral part of football broadcasting, designed in the 1980s to ensure as many football grounds across the country are filled with matchgoers, who would be unable to otherwise watch the games live. Given fans are unable to attend matches anyway, the FA has agreed to a temporary lifting of the blackout.

This represents a shift in stance from decision makers, who initially vowed to uphold the original Sky and BT Sports contracts for the coming season, meaning 40 percent of matches would not be available to watch live.

Leading Premier League clubs were worried fans would find ways to watch the game illegally, however, and have pressured Premier League bosses to offer pocket-lining alternatives.

Televising all games means clubs can offer their season ticket holders access to watch the matches via the subscription platforms, as was the case during Project Restart, when all fixtures were behind closed doors. Other fans will also be able to pay to watch the games, though exactly where they will be shown is as yet unknown.

The effect of the pandemic on football has been massive, from throwing calendars out of whack to pushing many clubs to the brink of bankruptcy, and it's crucial for things to return to normality as soon as possible. This includes the 3pm TV blackout.

Anyone who thinks that's a guarantee as soon as fans are allowed back into stadiums needs only look at how close football came to having the five substitutions rule changed permanently.

When the season resumed in June, it made sense, from a health and fitness standpoint, to allow five substitutions, but nobody ever said they wanted it forever. Thankfully, Premier League clubs recently voted against a permanent law change which would have given bigger clubs even more advantage and wasted a lot of match time.

If the permanent lifting of the 3pm TV blackout is also put to a vote in future, clubs must veto that too. Additional TV revenue will be tempting for owners, but the loss will be felt in other ways. Fewer fans will want to go to matches if they can stay at home and see the action, meaning emptier stadiums and a loss of income for businesses located around grounds.

With capacity crowds a long way off, lifting the 3pm blackout makes sense for the time being. It must, however, be a temporary change.



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/every-premier-league-game-may-be-shown-on-tv-after-3pm-blackout-lifted-lets-hope-its-only-temporary

[WhiteJC]

Jasper's Whirlwind Year

A new three-year contract was the perfect way to cap what has been a remarkable year for Sylvester Jasper.

Blistering form for our Under-18s saw him drafted into the PL2 setup, while he also made three appearances for the First Team.

"I'm extremely proud and happy," Jasper said of his new deal. "I like the group of players, the team, the coaching staff, they've all helped me here, so I was just happy to get everything sorted out so now I can focus on my football.

"I've been here since I was in the Under-12s, so this will now be my seventh year at Fulham, and I've enjoyed every single moment of it.

"It definitely feels like my home. I know everyone around the Training Ground and they know me. It's a very welcoming place and I enjoy coming into work every day.

"It was a brilliant season for me, playing through three age groups. I did a lot of learning last season with a lot of new experiences, and hopefully that will help me continue to progress."

His first taste of senior football came on one of the biggest stages in the country, as he found himself up against the likes of David Silva, Raheem Sterling and Bernardo Silva at the Etihad Stadium.

"It was amazing," Jasper said of our FA Cup clash with Manchester City. "I'd never played in front of a crowd that big before. It was a crazy, surreal experience, but I enjoyed every moment.

"I managed to get Sterling's shirt as well which was very good! I play with these guys on FIFA and watch them on TV, and now I'm playing against them!"

After being invited to join in with First Team training, the 18-year-old was handed two further runouts after lockdown.

He was on the pitch for Josh Onomah's dramatic late winner against Birmingham City, and he managed to top the dribbling charts against Brentford despite only being on the pitch for seven minutes.

"Someone mentioned that to me, but I don't really focus too much on those sorts of stats, more about how I play," he stated. "Of course if they're positive then that's all good, but dribbling is a big part of my game, so hopefully there'll be more of that.

"In the Birmingham game we were pushing, trying to get a goal, trying to create something, and that's what we managed to do in the end. I felt we deserved the victory, so it was only right that we got the goal at the end.

"When you're young you always look up to the First Team players and hope that one day maybe you can get there.

"I always had belief and now I'm getting the opportunity, it makes me so happy, and hopefully I can just show what I've got now.

"The more you're in and around it, the more you want to stay there. You just want to prove yourself.

"I feel everything's going great right now, and that's a motivation to keep working hard and keep getting those First Team chances.

"When I was younger I used to watch Scott Parker play, and now he's my Head Coach. There's so much to learn from him.

"When he joins in the sessions you can see how good a player he is. You always want to watch what he does on the pitch and listen to what he has to say."

A season Jasper will never forget ended in the perfect way at the start of this month. He wasn't in the squad for our momentous victory over Brentford, but he and the other youth players who had featured regularly in First Team training were invited to Wembley to support their teammates.

"It was a historic day for the Club, so to just be in and around it was very good," Jasper said. "It was crazy, you're witnessing history for the Club, which is beautiful, a beautiful experience."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/august/28/sylvester-jasper-whirlwind-year

[WhiteJC]

Report: Fulham want to sign Gonzalo Higuain

New Juventus boss Andrea Pirlo confirmed earlier this week that Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain is not a part of his plans for the upcoming season.

Pirlo, who replaced Maurizio Sarri, said that he will allow the former Real Madrid striker to leave this summer.

The Italy legend described the former Argentina international Higuain as a great player, but it looks like the 32-year-old's spell with the Serie A champions is coming to an end.

Now, according to reports from Corriere dello Sport (h/t Sport Witness), Premier League clubs Fulham and Newcastle are keen to sign the former Napoli striker.

Higuain joined Juventus from Napoli in 2016 and has managed 66 goals in 148 games for the Old Lady in three seasons.

Last season, he scored 11 goals in 43 games in all competitions.

There have been interest from Aston Villa and West Ham as well, but they're only observing his situation at the moment.

Fulham are looking to bolster their forward department ahead of the new season, and have been linked with a host of strikers in recent weeks.

The Cottagers are reportedly in talks to sign Ollie Watkins, while are showing interest in signing Callum Wilson from AFC Bournemouth.

Higuain would be a very good addition for Fulham, but probably they would go for a young player with a proven Premier League experience.



https://sportslens.com/report-fulham-want-to-sign-gonzalo-higuain/310442/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham reject offer from Galatasaray for Seri

Fulham have rejected a bid from Galatasaray for Jean Michael Seri.

He spent last season on loan with the Turkish club, who are keen to sign him on a permanent deal.

But Fulham have rejected their offer for the midfielder, who moved to Craven Cottage in a big-money move from Nice in 2018.

He was allowed to leave following the Whites' relegation last year.

Meanwhile, Fulham are set to complete deals to sign Harrison Reed and Mario Lemina from Southampton.

Reed impressed while on loan from the Saints last season, helping Fulham win promotion back to the top flight.

The club are taking up an option to buy Reed, 25, for £8m, and he is set to be joined at the Cottage by fellow midfielder Lemina.

Gabon international Lemina, 26, has been out of favour at Southampton for some time and was on loan at Galatasaray last season.

He is expected to join Fulham on loan with a view to a permanent move.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-reject-offer-from-galatasaray-for-seri

[WhiteJC]

Two Fulham Games Televised

Two of Fulham's first three Premier League matches have been selected for live television coverage.

Our opener against Arsenal at Craven Cottage will still take place on Saturday 12th September, but will now kick-off at the earlier time of 12.30pm for broadcast on BT Sport.

We host Aston Villa later in the month, with this fixture now taking place on Sunday 27th September at 2pm, which fans will be able to watch on Sky Sports.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/august/28/two-fulham-games-televised

[WhiteJC]

Exclusive: Fulham defender in advanced talks to join Shrewsbury Town next season

Fulham defender Marlon Fossey is in advanced talks to join Shrewsbury Town on loan for next season, Football Insider understands.

The 21-year-old is yet to feature for the Cottagers' first team and manager Scott Parker has given the green light for the right-back to leave Craven Cottage temporarily this summer.

A Fulham source has told Football Insider that the Los Angeles-born defender is close to joining League One outfit Shrewsbury as he looks for his first taste of senior club football.

Fossey, who turns 22 in September, joined Fulham's academy at the age of 11 after he was spotted playing in Jersey by head of recruitment and talent ID Malcolm Elias.

He initially arrived as a forward but has since reverted into an attack-minded full-back for both club and country.

A USA youth international, Fossey picked up a serious injury at the start of the 2018/19 campaign which forced him to sit out most of the season.

Having returned to play for the under-23s back in February of this year, the club have given the youngster the green light to leave Craven Cottage in a bid to boost his development.

He is set to join Shrewsbury, who finished 15th in League One last season.

The Shrews have already got their recruitment for next season underway with the signings of striker Rekeil Pike and midfielder Joshua Daniels and Scott High, the latter joining on loan.

They have also seen the likes of Romain Vincelot, Josh Laurent and Joe Murphy all leave on free transfers.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-fulham-defender-in-advanced-talks-to-join-shrewsbury-town-next-season-joy-1/

[WhiteJC]

Marlon Fossey Signs For Town

Sam Ricketts has boosted Town's defence with the signing of young full-back Marlon Fossey from Fulham.

Shrewsbury Town is pleased to announce the signing of Marlon Fossey on a season-long loan from Premier League side Fulham. The athletic full-back who will be looking to play on the right, joins Town for his first loan move away from his parent club.

Marlon moved over to the UK from Jersey when he was 11 to take up an opportunity to join the Academy programme at Fulham after being spotted at the Jersey Festival.

Originally an attacking player, he's since been converted into a full-back. He's a very athletic player who is at national standards for pentathlon events.

Marlon plays for the USA national team at youth level, and in February 2017 helped the U20 USA team to their first ever CONCACAF Championship, playing close to every minute in the tournament in Costa Rica.

Despite impressing during his time at Fulham, Marlon has recently suffered with a long term injury. However, he has fought back to full fitness and caught the eye of Sam Ricketts, who explained that Marlon has been on his radar for a while now.

"Marlon is a young player with huge potential," said Sam. "He's been really unfortunate in his career so far with injury. He was due to make his Premier League debut at 18 but picked up an injury. That then followed on as he was also due to make his international debut with America.

"However, he's been back fit now before lockdown. He's been training all this time and is ready to go.

"He's someone who I've been chasing for 18 months now so I'm delighted to get him through the door. He's really athletic, he can get up and down the line really well. He's got a gymnastics background as well.

"He has a real desire to improve and be as good as he can be. You can't ever be too quick or athletic in football, he has the two in abundance."



https://www.shrewsburytown.com/news/2020/august/marlon-fossey-signs-for-town/

[WhiteJC]

Report: Aston Villa's £10 million bid for Nottingham Forest right-back and West Ham target Matty Cash knocked back, Fulham preparing to move

According to The Athletic's Paul Taylor, English Championship side Nottingham Forest have knocked back Aston Villa's bid for right-back Matty Cash.

Dean Smith's side tabled a deal that could end up totalling £10 million after various add-ons are met, but Forest are holding out for £15 million.

Cash is also attracting West Ham United who are looking for a right-back after losing Pablo Zabaleta and Jeremy Ngakia at the end of last season, but it's Fulham who are hatching a brilliant plan to land him.

Scott Parker's side are said to be willing to include more than one player in any potential deal for the player, and the player-plus-cash deal could do the trick.

Cash is also on the radars of Southampton and Sheffield United after impressing as a right-back after manager Sabri Lamouchi changed his position last season.

The 23-year-old clearly has what it takes to play in the English top-flight, but Villa have to do better and table an improved bid to have a realistic chance of beating Fulham, West Ham and co. to his signature.

Cash finished last season with three goals and five assists in 42 Championship games, and the Villans could do with his services as they look to establish themselves in the Premier League following last season's relegation scare.



https://sportslens.com/report-aston-villas-10-million-bid-for-nottingham-forest-right-back-and-west-ham-target-matty-cash-knocked-back-fulham-preparing-to-move/310468/

[WhiteJC]

Marlon Fossey Loan

The Club can confirm that Marlon Fossey has joined Shrewsbury Town on loan for the full 2020/21 season.

The 21-year-old missed a large portion of last season through injury, making six appearances for the Under-23s.

His impressive performances towards the end of the campaign saw him train with the First-Team as football returned in June.

Marlon joins a Shrewsbury side who finished 15th in League One last season.

We wish him luck and hope he has a successful season.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/august/28/marlon-fossey-loan