Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 16/09/20...

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TAYLOR | DRINAN IS A DOUBT

Injury update from Town's assistant manager, with Aaron likely absent for Cottagers visit

Stuart Taylor has suggested that Aaron Drinan will likely miss Town's meeting with Fulham in the second round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.

The forward, who has featured in all of Blues' competitive games so far this season, was replaced at half-time on Sunday with a thigh strain, and now looks unlikely to recover in time for the visit of The Cottagers to Portman Road tomorrow.

"There are a few knocks from Sunday and Aaron is one." Town's assistant manager said.

"It looks like he'll be struggling for the game on Wednesday.

"It's a shame because he's set a brilliant example so far. His attitude and work ethic in training and in games has been fantastic.

"We'll know more soon but tomorrow looks unlikely."

Stuart also gave an update on Cole Skuse, Kane Vincent-Young, Kayden Jackson and Luke Woolfenden, with only the latter having made an appearance for Town so far this term.

"Woolfy is in a better position than at the weekend, that's for sure," he added.

"There aren't too many changes in terms of the lads that have been out a few weeks.

"Cole and Kayden are progressing but we'll get a better assessment on them in the next couple of days.

"KVY's rehab has been switched up slightly and that should benefit him."



https://www.itfc.co.uk/news/2020/september/stuart-taylor-on-injuries-ahead-of-fulham/

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Drinan, Woolfenden and Lankester Set to Miss Fulham Cup Tie

Town look set to be without Aaron Drinan, Luke Woolfenden and Jack Lankester for Wednesday's Carabao Cup second round tie against Fulham at Portman Road, while Kane Vincent-Young, Kayden Jackson and Cole Skuse remain sidelined and assistant manager Stuart Taylor says one or two others are also suffering with knocks.

Drinan was substituted at half-time during Saturday's 2-0 victory over Wigan suffering with a thigh strain, while Woolfenden tweaked his groin and Lankester suffered a concussion in training incidents late in the week.

"We're just waiting for confirmation back on Aaron," Taylor said at this morning's press conference. "It does look like he's going to be struggling for the game on Wednesday, I've got to say that.

"But we'll find out and I'm sure the club will announce something as soon as we find out what it is. We're just waiting for word back on him.

"There are a few other lads as well who picked up a few knocks from Sunday, so we just need to be careful on what the gaffer is going to do for Wednesday night."

He added: "There are a lot of tired bodies, but we've got a lot of knocks as well. Some that we're nursing and some that we're waiting for feedback on and hoping that they're not going to be too bad.

"It's been a tough programme up until now, and we're just going to have to wait and see what tomorrow brings."

Taylor has been delighted with the impact Drinan has made, the Irish U21 international having started all three games as the central striker having not previously made a senior start for the Blues.

"We set loads of different targets for the lads in terms of the first team, holding that first-team training place and aspiring to get into the squad for the first team, then getting off the bench and having an opportunity," he said.

"But when you get the opportunity you've got to grab it as you go along the way, whether that be grabbing the chance to go and train with them.

"Aaron's done that this season, he's been immense in every aspect of training, games, how he goes about his work, he's applied himself really well, and he has set that example to the other lads that if you do get your chance you've got to take it and if you do take it then you'll be in, and he's done that.

"We've always said when we came in that if you get the jersey you need to keep it and Aaron's done that for sure."

"I think it's the work ethic and the message that he sends across to the rest of the lads and it is infectious.

"You get someone going running around and busting a gut, and it is infectious, and it goes onto the other lads. You always say defend from the front, so everybody sees exactly the work rate he puts in, therefore they end up doing the same as well.

"They see him running, and they run with him and he sets off a lot of our pressing, and it lets the midfield lads behind him go and press with him. So he's been very good for us this season and hopefully it won't be a bad one for him."

Regarding Woolfenden, he added: "He's a day closer to being back. He certainly looks in a better position than he did on Saturday."

He says Lankester won't be involved having suffered a freak injury at the end of last week: "Obviously with the concussion rulings now we have careful, as we would have been anyway with him.

"Jack will come in today, we'll assess him again, he gets reassessed every single day, as do the other injured lads.

"But as soon as the symptoms clear up he has to go four days before he can go back in about things. He was still feeling a little bit of pain from that.

"I really feel for him because when it happened last week, it was actually nothing, he just turned into Judgey's shoulder and just the way he fell down and everything, it was bizarre. The good thing now is that he's totally fine and on the mend."

But once he is over the concussion, Taylor says the 20-year-old is ready and raring to go having last made a senior appearance in January 2019.

"He's in a great position, he was absolutely flying before that head knock," he said. "And he brings an incredible quality that we don't have and that freshness.

"But we can't expect too much of him because he's a young kid who has been out of football for about a year and a half, which is a long, long time.

"He will give us that freshness when he comes back, he will give us a lot of qualities when he comes back, but we need to be careful we don't expect too much from him."

Vincent-Young, Jackson and Skuse are yet to play a part this season due to achilles, groin and knee problems respectively.

"They're coming along OK," Taylor said. "Obviously, we'd like it to be quicker than what it is, but sometimes that happens. Kane is just changing his rehab programme a little bit, and hopefully, we'll see a positive in that towards the next couple of days.

"And Cole's finding a little tough, so again we'll reassess him in the next couple of days. There's not really too many changes on that side of things with the lads that are out.

"Kayden's progressing along fine, he's been on the grass a couple of days now, and hopefully, he can start getting involved with the team and training in the next day or two."

Taylor says Oli Hawkins came in with a minor problem and that they've taken things slowly with the former Portsmouth frontman.

"He came with a little foot problem, but it wasn't an issue, we just managed it," he said.

"We've always tried to have him involved in games. He's been on the bench in two of the games and not come on. That was more or less a tactical one in terms of who would be the most suited type to come on in those games.

"I think it's been the right decision on that side of things. Oli's a fantastic character in and around the dressing room and on the training pitch.

"He's a real handful and he's something that we need at this football club. He'll be a very good addition, a very good signing. It won't be long before he's back on the pitch again."

Would Wednesday be too soon for him to make his first Town start? "I think time will tell on that one. Obviously the gaffer's sitting down now waiting for most of the lads to come in and assessing where they all are. It's an extra day since Sunday, so we can get a good indication as to who's at their fittest and who's ready to go."

Taylor says he and manager Paul Lambert are liaising closely with the club's sport science staff with games coming thick and fast and this season's policy of trying to keep a settled side.

"I was really determined to come into this interview and not mention the five and a half months we've been off, but it is something that not just us but every club is having to take into consideration," he added.

"We'll look at the data, we'll look at how lads are feeling, we'll speak to the lads and we'll get honest feedback from them.

"This week is going to be exceptionally difficult in that we've got three games in seven days rather than three games in eight and those extra 24 hours do make a massive difference when it comes to recovery and preparation for games.

"We've got a squad of players in which we have got quite a few injuries. We've got quite a few knocks and bruises and some lads are going to have to go again and some lads won't be able to go again.

"We have to keep in mind that we are very, very close to travelling to an away game, which is going to be coming up on Saturday which is going to be a massive game for us."

Town's full-backs on Saturday, skipper Luke Chambers and Stephen Ward, are 34 and 35 respectively. Can they cope with playing three games in a week in such a demanding position?

"Yes, they're both experienced lads," Taylor insisted. "You look at Wardy, who was up at Burnley, renowned for playing three games a week and he would churn it out no problem. Chambo's of the same ilk. They might be 34 and 35 but they're running about 12-year-olds just now which is great.

"It's a great lesson for the younger ones and we've actually pointed out a few things already about their application and their desire and their hunger on the football pitch.

"Against Bristol Rovers, Wardy's played a pass into the box when we were attacking, it's got cut out and he's back down defending a cross at the back post area.

"And that's the mentality and professionalism, the standards that Wardy's got, and Chambo's no different. It's a great lesson for the younger players to go and learn from."

Taylor said there won't be any senior players in the U23s team taking on Millwall in a behind-closed-doors game at Playford Road this afternoon - "No, there won't be, the squad's not big enough" - with midfielder Tristan Nydam not yet ready to play matches following his 14-month absence due to a broken ankle and ligament damage.

"Tristan's coming along really, really well but in terms of playing games he's still a good bit away from that," he said.

"His rehab has been positive lately, he's taken leaps and bounds. He's been in the grass, which is great to see, but he's still a wee bit away from playing games."



https://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/38720/drinan-woolfenden-and-lankester-set-to-miss-fulham-cup-tie

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What side should Fulham field at Ipswich?

The disappointment of Saturday's below-par opening to the Premier League campaign remains with us. It is difficult to think of many harder starts that the fixture computer could have handed a newly-promoted side (Leeds had the toughest assignment and approached it with adventure and style, ultimately falling fractionally short), but Scott Parker won't have been pleased with the basic errors that undermined his gameplan. The silver lining is that it should have convinced the powers that be of a need for a new centre back.

Football in the coronavirus era is so frenetic that there's another fixture right around the corner. That's no bad thing as it allows the Whites to set their minds on a fresh challenge – and gives an opportunity to boost morale, which is vital in a fight against relegation. In Fulham's case, the draw for the EFL Cup has thrown up a trip to League One Ipswich – one of the great away trips of recent years, sadly unmakeable for any fans at the moment.

I've been one of those Fulham fans openly critical of the club's approach to the Cups for many years. As one of the select few clubs never to have won a major trophy, giving either Cup competition – especially the League Cup, now diminished to the point that the leading sides put out a shadow squad in the early rounds before being enticed by the lure of a European spot when the competition thins out – seems like a no-brainer. Given that Fulham's whole season is built around staying in the top flight, I'd relax my usually hardline stance that we should select as strong a team as possible, but there's plenty to ponder as Scott Parker considers the precise composition of his team for Portman Road.

For one thing, there are a number of new signings to integrate. None of them featured on the opening day, with Parker quite forthright in saying that they simply hadn't trained enough with their new team-mates. That seemed sensible in the cases of Alphonse Areola, Kenny Tete and Ola Aina – who all arrived days before the first fixture – but it was puzzling to see Mario Lemina, who has had a fortnight or so since signing on loan from Southampton, left out of the squad altogether. Most of these players should feature on Wednesday, with the side likely to be a mish-mash of new arrivals and some of the sparkling young talent on the fringes of the senior squad.

It is probably the right time to give Areola a taste of English football. His pedigree – PSG, Real Madrid and a host of other French and Spanish sides – is hard to quibble with, even if he hasn't really been a regular in recent years. He remains a World Cup winner, still highly thought of enough to feature in the French national squad, and won't be coming to London simply to sit on the bench. There's always been a concern that Marek Rodak is a little slow to come off his line – highlighted by Arsenal's second goal on Saturday, although the fault was hardly his alone – and Areola will have a chance to impress.

The shape of the defence that plays in front of him will be intriguing. Tete should be the first-choice right back going forward, he's strong defensively, has the speed our back line has sorely lacked since the departure of Ryan Fredericks a couple of summers ago, and is adventurous enough to flourish in Parker's preferred system. Ola Aina could fill in at left back – showing his versatility – but that would deny Antonee Robinson the ideal opportunity for his long-awaited debut, whilst the big question will be whether Parker wants to persevere with the central defensive pairing that looked so shaky against the Gunners or give Maxime Le Marchand a run out. Could Jerome Opoku, so impressive on loan with Accrington last season, finally earn a senior start?

The midfield could feature Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who added plenty of purpose in the forward areas when he came off the bench at the weekend. I've always thought the Cameroonian could be a real asset in English football if he channelled his physicality effectively and he appears to have become a more forward-thinking passer during his loan spell in Spain last season. Lemina could slot into a fairly formidable midfield and it will be interesting to see whether the old stalwarts, Stefan Johansen and Kevin McDonald, are given a rare first-team outing. If not, expect them to head out on loan before too long.

There might be opportunities for Neeskens Kebano, a willing worker in tough circumstances on Saturday, and Anthony Knockaert, who I felt was unfortunate to have missed on against Arsenal, out wide. I'd like to see someone like Sylvester Jasper, who had a tremendous breakthrough season last year, rewarded for his development with some game time. The winger needs regular football to further his genuine talent and I think he'd relish the chance to run at a few League One defenders.

Parker suggested in his post-match comments that Aleksandar Mitrovic's exclusion on Saturday was due to his international commitments with Serbia meaning he wasn't able to take part in much training at Motspur Park. Logically, that should see him get some more minutes ahead of what already looks like a pivotal trip to Elland Road on Saturday – but it will be interesting to see if Parker starts our talisman at Portman Road. Without him, as the weekend defeat proved, the Whites lack potency up front – however hard Kamara works. There should be a spot on the bench at least for Jay Stansfield, whose eye-catching cameos last season suggested he's far more than just a goal poacher.

I'd be interested to read your line-ups for Ipswich in the comments ...



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/09/what-side-should-fulham-field-at-ipswich/

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'They've got an abundance of top players' – Taylor on tomorrow's Carabao Cup test against Fulham

Ipswich Town assistant boss Stuart Taylor knows that Fulham have 'an abundance of top players', but insists the Blues go into tomorrow night's Carabao Cup second round tie against the Premier League visitors looking to win.

Town have won just three of their 19 cup games against top-flight opposition since relegation from the Premier League in 2002, the most recent being a memorable League Cup semi-final first leg triumph against Arsenal back at the start of 2011.

Repeating that feat will be a tough ask given Paul Lambert is dealing with a long injury list following a hectic start to this delayed campaign.

Fulham, who won promotion via the Championship play-offs recently, were thrashed 3-0 by Arsenal in their league opener on Saturday. Off the back of that, Scott Parker is set to hand debuts to summer signings Alphonse Areola, Kenny Tete, Ola Aina and Mario Lemina, while talismanic striker Aleksander Mitrovic is another potential starter at Portman Road.

"Their depth of squad is huge," admitted Taylor. "They might possibly make a few changes from Saturday, but all they are doing is replacing international players with international players. They've got an abundance of top players.

"Whatever they do, the team they go with is going to be quality. And that's great for our lads because it gives them a good test.

"We played West Ham and Spurs in pre-season (losing 4-1 and 3-0 respectively), so it's another great test for the lads to go and face another Premier League side.

"All players want to play against top players to test themselves. It's a great opportunity for them to go and learn and gain new experiences. I'm sure they'll get a lot out of the game."

Taylor continued: "It's a great exercise for us and hopefully we can do enough to win the game.

"We'll go into the game confident. We've a way we want to go and play. I think for the neutral it will be a good game because both teams will look to get the ball down and play.

"It's a cup game and a cup game always has a special edge to it. This one will be no different.

"It would have been nice for us to have a crowd in to provide the atmosphere, but that isn't to be. We have to create our own atmosphere.

"We don't approach this game any different to any other. It's another game we want to win."

Should Town progress they would face the winners of tonight's tie between Rochdale and Sheffield Wednesday.



https://www.eadt.co.uk/sport/taylor-on-fulham-cup-clash-1-6838841

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Former Leeds United, Fulham and QPR striker set to face former club for Millwall

Target man has enjoyed successful career in professional game


Matt Smith in action during the 2014/15 season

Matt Smith could face former Cheltenham Town for the first time on Tuesday evening.

The 6ft 6in striker has been with Millwall since July 2019 and the Lions host the Robins in the second round of the Carabao Cup (6pm).

Smith grew up in Evesham and attended Pate's Grammar School, which has a long tradition of producing fine rugby players.

But among the selection of framed professional rugby shirts on display in the Cheltenham school's hall, proudly sits a signed Oldham Athletic shirt.

Smith played for Evesham at Under-15 level before joining Cheltenham, but he left the club and furthered his education with A-Levels followed by a degree at Manchester University.

During his studies he appeared for Redditch United, Solihull Moors and Droylsden before being given his first professional opportunity at Oldham Athletic.


Matt Smith returns to Pate's with signed shirt

He made national headlines after FA Cup goals against both Liverpool and Everton during the 2012/13 campaign.

Smith joined Leeds United in the summer of 2013 and he has since played in the Championship for Fulham, who paid £800,000 for his services, and QPR.

He also spent time on loan from Fulham at Bristol City under Steve Cotterill in 2014/15, scoring seven goals in 11 League One starts.

During his first season with Millwall, Smith topped the Lions' scoring charts with 14 and the 31-year-old is already off the mark this season, scoring in the 3-1 Carabao Cup first round win over Crawley Town.



https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/former-leeds-united-fulham-qpr-4516874

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Taylor: A Great Test for Our Lads

Assistant boss Stuart Taylor says Wednesday's Carabao Cup second round tie against Premier League new boys Fulham will be a great test for the Town players (KO 7pm).

"It's a cup game, and a cup game has always got a special edge to it, and this one will be no different," Taylor said.

"It would have been nice if there was a crowd to give that atmosphere and for the supporters to go and enjoy it. That isn't the case and it's not to be, so we have to create our own atmosphere there.

"There's no difference to it in terms of how we want to approach it, there's no difference to it in terms of the outcome that we want, so it's another game for us, and it's a great test for our lads to go and play against players at that level.

"But the outcome we want is to win the game, we want to win every game that we play in."

Taylor expects Fulham, who were promoted to the top flight having won the play-offs in August, to make changes from the team which lost 3-0 at home to Arsenal in their opening Premier League fixture on Saturday.

"Without a shadow of a doubt, their squad depth is huge," he said. "I think possibly they might make a few changes from Saturday, but all they're doing is replacing international players with international players, so whatever team they do go with is going to be quality players that are going to come in, which is great for our lads because it gives them a great test.

"We've played two Premier League sides in pre-season, West Ham and Spurs, so it's another great test for the lads to go and play against another Premier League side.

"All players want to play against top players to test themselves and it's a great opportunity to go and learn in the game and gain new experiences.

"And with the way our lads are they are very receptive to learning new things, so I'm quite sure they will get a lot out of the game no matter what team goes out. It's a great exercise for us, and hopefully, we can do enough to win the game."

He says as a coach he's not overly concerned about which big-name opposition players are going to be on show at Portman Road: "I'm not really too bothered because when you go into the coaching side of things the players' names and stuff like that, you're looking at how can you go and win the game and how can you pick weaknesses in them and how can we get our strengths to overpower them. You don't get involved in the name sort of things.

"Certainly, they've got an abundance of top players playing for them and for the neutral I think it'll be a good game of football because both teams will look to go and play football and look to get the ball down and play and I think it'll be a good game in that sense.

"We'll go into the game confident, we've got a way that we want to go and play, and we've got every confidence in it so it'll be a good game and we're looking forward to it."

Taylor has said that there are one or two bumps and bruises in the squad following Sunday's 2-0 victory over Wigan, so second-guessing the team manager Paul Lambert selects is likely to be harder for this game than it has been for the previous fixtures.

David Cornell could be back in goal having started the previous Carabao Cup tie, the 3-0 home victory over Bristol Rovers, while skipper Luke Chambers and Stephen Ward may again start, although Janoi Donacien and Myles Kenlock will be hoping Lambert looks to rest his veteran full-backs.

James Wilson and Toto Nsiala seem set to continue as the centre-halves with Luke Woolfenden not expected to be ready following his groin problem.

In midfield, Lambert may look at making one or two changes with Jon Nolan, Andre Dozzell and Teddy Bishop having started all three games so far.

Emyr Huws could come in for his first start of the season in place of Dozzell, while Alan Judge could potentially switch into the centre with Bishop dropping to the bench and Nolan appearing likelt to continue.

Whether Flynn Downes, yet to be included in a matchday 18 this season following Crystal Palace's interest and his subsequent transfer request, is involved in any capacity remains to be seen.

Up front, James Norwood seems likely to be handed his first start of the campaign with Aaron Drinan expected to miss out with the thigh problem he picked up in the first half on Saturday, with Gwion Edwards perhaps wide on the right and Freddie Sears on the left.

With Norwood not yet fully fit, Oli Norwood is likely to play a part from the bench.

Four of Fulham's summer signings, French international keeper Alphonse Areola, who joined on loan from PSG, Dutch international right-back Kenny Tete, who signed from Lyon, Gabon international Mario Lemina, who is on loan from Southampton, and Nigerian international wing-back Ola Aina, who came in on loan from Torino, may all be involved against the Blues having missed Saturday's defeat to Arsenal.

Head coach Scott Parker hinted after that match that they and striker Aleksandar Mitrovic and midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who both came off the bench against the Gunners, would be involved on Wednesday.

"This game [against Arsenal] came too early for those players - Alphonse, Lemina, the two boys [Tete and Aina] we literally just signed," Parker said.

"They probably fit into the same category as Mitro[vic]. I'm pleased that he got 30 minutes, along with Anguissa, and on Wednesday we can get some more minutes into these players."

Historically, the Blues have been victorious on nine occasions in games between the teams (six in the league), Fulham on 12 (11) and with eight (six) games ending in draws.

The Blues and the Cottagers last met in the League Cup in the 1996/97 season when the first leg at Craven Cottage ended 1-1 with the locally-born Simon Milton netting a stunner for Town.

At Portman Road, the Blues ran out 4-2 victors with Alex Mathie scoring twice and Danny Sonner and Steve Sedgley (pen), who also conceded an own goal, once each.

The teams also faced one another in the competition in 1973/74 when the first leg in London ended 2-2 - Trevor Whymark and Clive Woods the Town scorers - and the second at Portman Road 2-1 to Bobby Robson's side with Colin Harper and Colin Viljoen on target.

The clubs most recently met in the Championship when the Blues were beaten 2-0 at home - Neeskens Kebano and Rui Fonte the scorers - and 4-1 away after Joe Garner had given Town the lead, Jordan Spence having been red-carded in the 54th minute.

Ryan Sessegnon and Aboubakar Kamara each hit a brace for the Whites who went on to win promotion via the play-offs that season.

Former Town midfielder Brian Talbot is the assistant director of football at Craven Cottage, where he briefly played late on in his career.

Whites manager Parker was among those interviewed for the Town job after Mick McCarthy's departure in the summer of 2018 but didn't make the short list.

Winger Anthony Knockaert came close to joining the Blues on loan from Leicester in February 2015, however, ultimately opted against the switch.

The winners of the tie, which will go straight to penalties if level at 90 minutes - will face Rochdale or Sheffield Wednesday - who meet at Spotland this evening - at home in the third round in a week's time.

Wednesday's referee is Dean Whitestone from Northamptonshire, who is taking charge of his first game this season having shown 86 yellow cards and six red in 30 games in 2019/20.

Whitestone's last Town match was the 1-0 FA Cup third round defeat at Accrington Stanley in January 2019 in which he booked Downes and no one else.

Prior to that he was in charge of the Middlesbrough game at Portman Road in February 2012, which was abandoned after 37 minutes due to a frozen pitch with the score at 0-0.

Earlier that season, Whitestone was in charge of the 2-2 draw at Cardiff City in which he booked two Bluebirds and Michael Chopra and Keith Andrews.

He also refereed the 2-0 home defeat to Plymouth Argyle in March 2010 and the 1-1 draw at Reading in November 2009, keeping his cards in his pocket throughout on both occasions.

In November 2008 he awarded both sides a penalty as Town drew 1-1 at home to Sheffield United, both goals coming from the spot, booking only David Norris and Alan Quinn.

Squad from: Holy, Cornell, Chambers (c), Donacien, Ward, Kenlock, Woolfenden, Nsiala, Wilson, Dozzell, Bishop, Downes, Huws, Nolan, Judge, Edwards, Sears, Hawkins, Norwood.



https://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/38724/taylor-a-great-test-for-our-lads

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Fulham and West Ham 'bumped' into club's demands – Offers not good enough

It's not looking very likely that either Fulham or West Ham United will manage to take Jovane away from Sporting this summer.

Both clubs have been linked to the winger in the past couple of weeks, with reports from Portugal saying their bids weren't good enough to convince the Lions.

As newspaper Record brings an update on the player's situation today, they claim that there are two clubs are are still interested in the signing, one from England and one from Italy.

Regarding the sides who've been linked before, Record writes that Fulham, West Ham and Hertha Berlin all 'bumped' on Sporting's demands for the sale.

Record claims that Sporting won't let the player go for less than €20m, especially because they've been pretty happy with his adaptation to the centre forward position this season.

Reports from the last week claimed that both Fulham and West Ham had offered just over €15m for the transfer, and they had already warned that they'd need to improve their bids to take Jovane out of Alvalade.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-west-ham-bumped-clubs-demands-offers-not-good-enough/

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Promoted sides stick to familiar faces as Premier League season gets under way

This season's promoted sides stuck to a familiar formula on their Premier League returns, with just one new starter among the three line-ups.

That figure had never previously been lower than four since the league went to its current 20-team, three-up, three-down format in 1996.

But this time around, Leeds' Robin Koch was alone in being pitched into the starting line-up as West Brom and Fulham each kept their new players on the bench.

Leeds (v Liverpool, a)
Players who had previously been with their new clubs on loan were not counted towards the total, accounting for goalkeeper Ilan Meslier and winger Helder Costa, who signed permanently after loans from Lorient and Wolves respectively, and goalscorer Jack Harrison, borrowed from Manchester City for a third straight season.

That left Koch as the only new face – and even he may not have been involved had Marcelo Bielsa's team been successful in retaining Ben White after last season's successful loan from Brighton. Koch took only three minutes to concede a penalty which set Liverpool on their way to victory.

Fulham (v Arsenal, h)
The Cottagers' line-up contained only players who featured in the Championship last season, including Harrison Reed who has joined permanently after a season on loan from Southampton.

Goalkeeper Alphonse Areola and midfielder Anthony Knockaert were left on the bench, while there was no place for Antonee Robinson, Mario Lemina, Kenny Tete or Ola Aina.

West Brom (v Leicester, h)
The Baggies' starting XI contained summer recruits Grady Diangana, Matheus Pereira and Callum Robinson, but all three spent last season on loan at the Hawthorns from West Ham, Sporting and Sheffield United respectively.

David Button served as the substitute goalkeeper while centre-back Cedric Kipre was not involved.

A new approach?
Only six promoted teams in the Premier League's current format have gone into their season opener without a new recruit in their starting line-up – with three of those coming in the last two seasons after Norwich took a tried and tested approach last term.

Leeds joined last season's Sheffield United side in handing out only one debut – in the Blades' case, Callum Robinson before his switch to the Baggies – meaning Aston Villa last season accounted for four of the six debuts among the last six promoted teams as Tom Heaton, Bjorn Engels, Trezeguet and Wesley lined up against Tottenham.

That could be a sign of a new approach but just as likely, this season's selections may be influenced by the abbreviated build-up to the season amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Teams only wrapped up the previous campaign in late July, leaving minimal preparation time, while recruitment is not concluded yet as the transfer window remains open until October 5.

It is also only two years since Fulham themselves fielded a record-equalling six debutants – Fabri, Calum Chambers, Maxime Le Marchand, Joe Bryan, Jean-Michael Seri and Andre Schurrle – on the opening day against Crystal Palace and Wolves had four in a total of 11 for the promoted sides.

The highest ever total is 13, three years in succession from 2003 to 2005, while the previous low watermark of four occurred in 1995, 2001 and 2016. Those same years accounted for the previous teams without a debutant – Hull and Burnley in 2016 and Bolton in 2001.



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/promoted-sides-stick-to-familiar-faces-as-premier-league-season-gets-under-way-1600183525000

[WhiteJC]

Goodnight Mister Tom?

It's fair to say the pressing concern for every Fulham fan at the moment is the need for a new centre-back, maybe even two! Right now, we would all settle for a rumour linking us to a new centre-back. In the grand scheme of things any issues outside of that whether it be the need for a second striker to backup Mitrovic or further additions to the midfield pale into insignificance.

That being said I still think there is a conversation to be had around our midfield and specifically the justification for Tom Cairney to start. I cannot be alone in feeling that our captain has somewhat plateaued in recent seasons, perhaps even gone backwards. For much of last season it felt as though he was always going through the motions, never really match fit and a shadow of his former self. Upon viewing the shortlist of our goal of the season contenders I couldn't quite believe how many times he featured and do wonder whether the 6-8 albeit beautiful goals each year mask the reality of his real contribution.

Cairney managed just three assists last term in 42 appearances. During our previous Premier League campaign, he managed just a single goal and solitary assist in 32 appearances. In fact, his best season for us was in Slav's first year when were beaten by Reading in the play-offs, managing thirteen goals and ten assists. The subsequent promotion season in 2018 saw both his goal tally and assist figures drop by half. We all know about his qualities but these days he plays like someone who won't take a risk for fear of damaging his pass completion percentage. I swear there are times during a game when he shapes to play a pass he would once have taken a chance on only to turn back inside and lay it off to Harrison Reed six feet away.

It's hard to pinpoint exactly what he needs to do more in the current team as his very role is so hard to define. He isn't as combative as Reed and can't seem to beat a man like Onomah can, so perhaps his link up play just needs to offer more than a huge variety of short square balls. By no means am I underestimating his leadership and influence in the squad but is this a season where Fulham can afford to have players who only bring that to the table? And how much do we really lose on the field when he does come off given the likes of Hector and Mitrovic do offer visible vocal leadership as well.

We are only one game into what will be a tough season and Cairney will get game time to hopefully step up in a way that he certainly didn't last time round in the top flight. With Harrison Reed and Josh Omomah solidifying their places in the midfield we have the likes of Anguissa, Lemina and at the time of writing Seri still on the books as options. There were times last season where I felt Mcdonald or Johansen could offer something different when TC was off his game but the chances of either of these (or Seri) featuring seems highly unlikely.

While Cairney rightly remains a fans favourite and a loyal servant to the club we can't afford to be sentimental when assessing what value he brings to the team this season. Perhaps more needs to be done to define the role he plays but with the first day of the season severely lacking in creativity Parker will need his skipper to find a new level. It may be seen as somewhat blasphemous to lay criticism at his feet and so early in the season but this really is more of a comment on the last few years rather than the Arsenal game itself.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/09/goodnight-mister-tom/

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Parker's Ipswich Preview

Despite the incoming squad rotation, the Carabao Cup is a competition that Scott Parker wants to see Fulham do well in.

Our Head Coach has already stated that Wednesday's meeting with Ipswich Town will be a good opportunity to blood certain players, but he'll be putting out an XI that he feels will earn progression to Round Three.

"It's a competition that we respect," Parker said. "A good cup run, we know that that can build confidence and momentum.

"And also, at the same time it helps in terms of getting players minutes and getting players up to speed, those who haven't been with us too long, or haven't played a lot of football or trained a lot due the circumstances of having such a short pre-season.

"But as much as we want to get minutes into the boys to get them up to speed, we also want to go and win the game. We want to stay in the competition and hopefully be successful in it.

"Winning is the most important thing. Every time you play a football match, you want to win. It's an opportunity for us to win a game, which is what we plan to do every game this year.

"We understand we're not going to be able to do that every week, but our ambition is to try and win football matches, so this gives us a good platform to try and do that and then build from it."

Ipswich have just begun their second season of life in League One, but Parker will not be underestimating Paul Lambert's side.

"They've got a good manager, an experienced manager in Paul, and a team which has some good young talent in there, mixed with some good experience with the older pros," he stated.

"They've got all the dynamics to do very well this year. They're a good side who try and play the right way, so it's going to be a tough game for us.

"They try and play football, they like to get the ball down. They've got technical players, players who like the ball on the floor.

"And like I said, they've got a good blend of talented younger players alongside some older, more experienced players in [Luke] Chambers and people like that."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/september/Parker-s-Ipswich-Preview/

[WhiteJC]

Parker targets Cup run

Scott Parker might mix and match with his team at Portman Road tomorrow night – but the Fulham boss is eager for his side to put together a strong run in the League Cup this year.

Parker will have half an eye on Saturday's clash with Leeds United at Elland Road, which is already shaping up to be an important fixture between two newly-promoted teams, but will be putting out a team that he believes can beat their League One opposition tomorrow night.

Speaking to Fulham's official website, Parker said:

It's a competition that we respect. A good cup run, we know that that can build confidence and momentum. And also, at the same time it helps in terms of getting players minutes and getting players up to speed, those who haven't been with us too long, or haven't played a lot of football or trained a lot due the circumstances of having such a short pre-season.

But as much as we want to get minutes into the boys to get them up to speed, we also want to go and win the game. We want to stay in the competition and hopefully be successful in it. Winning is the most important thing. Every time you play a football match, you want to win. It's an opportunity for us to win a game, which is what we plan to do every game this year. We understand we're not going to be able to do that every week, but our ambition is to try and win football matches, so this gives us a good platform to try and do that and then build from it.

He will not be underestimating the challenge posed by Ipswich and singled out their manager Paul Lambert for particular praise.

They've got a good manager, an experienced manager in Paul, and a team which has some good young talent in there, mixed with some good experience with the older pros. They've got all the dynamics to do very well this year. They're a good side who try and play the right way, so it's going to be a tough game for us.

They try and play football, they like to get the ball down. They've got technical players, players who like the ball on the floor. And like I said, they've got a good blend of talented younger players alongside some older, more experienced players in [Luke] Chambers and people like that.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/09/parker-targets-cup-run/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham chasing Tah deal

Fulham are mulling a potential move for Bayer Leverkusen central defender Jonathan Tah as they look to add defensive reinforcements before the close of the summer transfer window.

Scott Parker's side were beaten 3-0 by Arsenal on the opening day of the new season – and the deficiencies in the centre of the Fulham defence were all too apparent. Tah, a German international, has been historically linked with Arsenal and a number of leading Premier League clubs but Leicester are known to have been interested earlier this summer. The Telegraph suggests that Foxes boss Brandon Rodgers has identified Wesley Fofana as his main target, which leaves Fulham free to chase the 24 year-old.

The Telegraph report suggests that Tah, who has spent five seasons with Leverkusen, might be available this summer if Fulham were to come in with an attractive offer. He has made more than a hundred first-team appearances for Leverkusen having come through the Hamburg youth academy and has won ten senior caps for Germany.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/09/fulham-chasing-tah-deal/

[WhiteJC]

Scott Parker intends to rotate Fulham squad for Ipswich cup tie

Scott Parker will rotate the squad as the Fulham manager looks to build match fitness and reach the Carabao Cup third round at the expense of Ipswich.

The Sky Bet Championship play-off winners returned to Premier League action with a whimper as Arsenal ran out comfortable 3-0 winners in Saturday's season opener at Craven Cottage.

Fulham now head to Portman Road looking for victory against Paul Lambert's League One side in the Carabao Cup second round – an encounter Parker intends to make changes in.

Alphonse Areola, Mario Lemina, Kenny Tete, Ola Aina and Antonee Robinson have yet to make their debut since their summer arrivals, while others left out of the line-up against Arsenal need minutes.

"It's a competition that we respect," Parker said. "A good cup run, we know that that can build confidence and momentum.

"And also, at the same time it helps in terms of getting players minutes and getting players up to speed, those who haven't been with us too long or haven't played a lot of football or trained a lot due to the circumstances of having such a short pre-season.

"But as much as we want to get minutes into the boys to get them up to speed, we also want to go and win the game.

"We want to stay in the competition and hopefully be successful in it.

"Winning is the most important thing. Every time you play a football match, you want to win.

"It's an opportunity for us to win a game, which is what we plan to do every game this year.

"We understand we're not going to be able to do that every week, but our ambition is to try and win football matches, so this gives us a good platform to try and do that and then build from it."

Fulham's side is bound to be full of quality despite his planned changes on Wednesday when Parker will not allow complacency to seep in against third-tier opposition.

"They've got a good manager, an experienced manager in Paul, and a team which has some good young talent in there, mixed with some good experience with the older pros," he told the club's website.

"They've got all the dynamics to do very well this year. They're a good side who try and play the right way, so it's going to be a tough game for us.

"They try and play football, they like to get the ball down. They've got technical players, players who like the ball on the floor.

"And like I said, they've got a good blend of talented younger players alongside some older, more experienced players in (Luke) Chambers and people like that."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/league-cup/news/scott-parker-intends-to-rotate-fulham-squad-for-ipswich-cup-tie_414446.html

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Newcastle United: Magpies to rival Aston Villa, Brighton and Fulham for Liverpool ace Divock Origi

Newcastle United are set to rival fellow Premier League clubs Aston Villa, Brighton and Fulham for the services of Liverpool striker Divock Origi in the summer transfer window, according to The Mirror.

However, as per the outlet, Turkish club Fenerbache are already reportedly in talks with Jurgen Klopp's side over the possible signing of the Belgian international.

Origi is under contract at Anfield until 2024, and the Reds may be willing to let him leave for a transfer fee just shy of £14m. However, Liverpool are apparently not willing to let the 25-year-old go unless they find a suitable replacement for the striker.

Indeed, if that replacement is found, then Steve Bruce may be able to take advantage by subsequently bringing Origi to St James' Park.

The 25-year old has experience in the English top flight, having managed to play in 91 Premier League games so far since his debut in 2015/16, with 19 goals in the division and nine assists (via Transfermarkt).

Origi is also a serial winner, having been part of the Liverpool squads that won the league title last season as well as the Champions League in the 2018/19 campaign. (per Transfermarkt).

On the other hand, the Tyneside club have just brought in a new centre-forward in Callum Wilson from Bournemouth, and so maybe a move for Origi would not be wise unless they can sell some of their other strikers before the market shuts.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/newcastle-united-transfer-rumours/newcastle-enter-divock-origi-transfer-race/

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Club making progress in their aim to sign Fulham player

Turkish newspaper Fanatik claim Galatasaray are making progress in their pursuit of Fulham's Stefan Johansen.

The Turkish side are in the market for a midfielder after parting ways with Jean Michael Seri and Mario Lemina this summer.

They've already signed Ognekaro Etebo from Stoke City on a season long loan deal but they are still keen to bring in another experienced central midfielder.

It's reported Gala's first choice was Celta Vigo's Okay Yokuslu but the Spanish club don't want to sell. Subsequently they've now turned their attention to Johansen.

Fanatik claim Galatasaray are closing in the Fulham player, and that the Norwegian international is also keen to join them.

The presence of his compatriots Omar Elabdellaoui and Martin Linnes at the Istanbul side could also be a factor for Johansen, say the Turkish newspaper.

He made 36 appearances and provided five assists for Fulham last season. His contract at Craven Cottage will expire at the end of June 2022.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-making-progress-aim-sign-fulham-player/

[WhiteJC]

Pundit says 'writing on the wall' for Fulham unless striker starts firing

There was a lot of excitement around Craven Cottage after Fulham achieved promotion to the Premier League. The Lilywhites haven't spent ridiculous amounts of money like they did last time, but their recruitment has been smart.

With Scott Parker at the helm, there's a lot to be positive about for Fulham fans. However, they were handed a harsh reality check in their first game of the new Premier League season.

Arsenal put three past Parker's side at the Cottage without reply. Fulham started off fairly well but it seemed as if they didn't know what to do once the Gunners took the lead.

If Fulham's second-half performance is anything to go by, they may struggle to stay away from the relegation zone. BBC pundit Garth Crooks feels the writing is on the wall already but the Cottagers could change that if they can get one of their best players firing.

He wrote on BBC Sport: "Fulham appear hesitant and lacking in quality, particularly in the last third. Unless they can get Aleksandar Mitrovic fit and scoring goals, I think the writing might be on the wall already."

Mitrovic has been struggling with injuries for a while, which forced Parker to put him on the bench against Arsenal. The former Newcastle man scored 26 times for Fulham in the Championship last season and is their biggest hope this term.

If Mitrovic can stay fit and manage to score at least half as many as he did in the Championship, Fulham's chances of survival will increase considerably. However, he can't do it all by himself, which puts further pressure on his teammates and Parker this season.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/09/15/pundit-says-writing-on-the-wall-for-fulham-unless-striker-starts-firing/

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Owls Await Town or Fulham

Town will host Championship Sheffield Wednesday in round three of the Carabao Cup if they beat Premier League Fulham in Wednesday's second round tie at Portman Road.

The Owls defeated Rochdale 2-0 at Spotland in their second round tie this evening, Elias Kachunga and Josh Windass netting the goals in the second half.

Third round ties will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week.



https://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/38728/owls-await-town-or-fulham

[WhiteJC]

Ipswich Town have dished out very few cupsets in recent years... Could another hoodoo be broken tonight?

Ipswich Town take on Fulham in a Carabao Cup second round tie at Portman Road tonight (7pm), STUART WATSON previews the action.

QUICKFIRE CUP ACTION
Any lower league team that goes on a Carabao Cup run this season will require one or two of the energy drinks made by the competition's sponsors given the first four rounds have all been squeezed into the opening month of a truncated campaign.

Ipswich negotiated round one comfortably, Freddie Sears (2) and Luke Chambers scoring in a 3-0 win against League One rivals Bristol Rovers.

Tonight, they face a far tougher test at Portman Road in the form of newly-promoted Premier League side Fulham.

Get through – and we'll assess their chances shortly – and another home tie awaits next Tuesday night, against the winners of last night's game between Rochdale (League One) and Sheffield Wednesday (Championship).

Win that and, all of a sudden, the Blues would be preparing for a last 16 tie on Tuesday, September 29. They haven't been that far since Roy Keane's men went on to lose to Arsenal in a two-legged semi-final back at the start of 2011.

Perhaps, however, we're getting a little ahead of ourselves.

NO ROOM FOR ERROR
Town far from disgraced themselves in pre-season friendlies against strong Premier League opposition.

Against both Tottenham (whose team included Hugo Lloris, Toby Alderweireld, Deli Alli and Son Heung-min) and West Ham (whose team included the likes of Jack Wilshere, Andriy Yarmolenko, Felipe Anderson) they played some encouraging stuff.

The top teams are clinical though and Ipswich's teething problems were ruthlessly punished as they were defeated 3-0 and 4-1 respectively.

Town got away with several lapses in concentration at the back in Sunday's 2-0 win against Wigan, but are unlikely to find Fulham as generous.

PACKED WITH QUALITY
It was a case of 'welcome back to the Premier League' for Fulham at the weekend as they were swept aside 3-0 at Craven Cottage by a dominant Arsenal.

Scott Parker is likely to make changes to his team tonight and those who come in will see this as an opportunity to secure a starting spot for this Saturday's trip to Leeds.

Indications are that four new signings are in line to make their debuts.

Alphonse Areola is a Spanish keeper on loan from Paris Saint Germain, Kenny Tete is a Dutch international right-back formerly of Ajax and Lyon, Ola Aina is a versatile Nigerian international on loan from Torino, while Mario Lemina is a Gabon international midfielder on loan from Southampton (the Saints having signed him from Juventus for a club record fee of £15.4m).

There's every chance that talismanic Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic will start after he made a cameo display last weekend, while the same applies to Cameroon midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, a player who Fulham reportedly rejected a £22.5m bid for from Villarreal this summer.

Will the likes of Michael Hector, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson, Anthony Knockaert, Tom Cairney, Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Aboubakar Kamara be rested? If they are, the door would be open for established players like Cyrus Christie, Maxime Le Marchand, Bobby Reid, Denis Odoi, Joe Bryan, Stefan Johansen, Josh Onomah, Neeskens Kebano and Ivan Cavaleiro to step in.

Whatever starting XI Parker goes with, it will be packed with quality.

CUPSETS IN SHORT SUPPLY
Ipswich have been on the receiving end of plenty of cupsets in recent years, but caused very few of their own.

The Blues have faced Premier League opposition 17 times since their own relegation from the top-flight in 2002. Their record in those cup games reads: W3 D1 L13.

Those victories came against Middlesbrough (League Cup third round, 02/03), West Brom (League Cup quarter-finals, 10/11) and Arsenal (League Cup semi-finals, first leg, 10/11). The draw was against Southampton (FA Cup third round, 14/15).

Along the way there have been losses to Liverpool, Arsenal (twice), Manchester United, Chelsea (twice), Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, Wigan, Bolton, Watford, Southampton and Portsmouth.

Having banished their TV hoodoo at the weekend, maybe it's time another unwanted record falls?

PROCEED WITH CAUTION
Including pre-season, this is a seventh game in 25 days for Town off the back of a five-month break from action. As is the case for many clubs up and down the land, deconditioned bodies are breaking down under a heavy load.

Aaron Drinan (thigh) has now joined Kane Vincent-Young (Achilles), Luke Woolfenden (groin), Kayden Jackson (groin), Cole Skuse (knee) and Jack Lankester (concussion) in the treatment room.

James Norwood (groin) and Oli Hawkins (foot) are slowly being brought back up to speed, while you'd imagine Town will also carefully manage with the load placed on the likes of Teddy Bishop and Andre Dozzell given neither are used to long runs in the side. It also remains to be seen how long veteran full-backs Luke Chambers and Stephen Ward can keep up the Saturday-Tuesday schedule.

With Saturday's long trip to Bristol Rovers in mind, expect at least five or six changes to the team that started Sunday's 2-0 win. There's every chance we'll see the likes of David Cornell, Janoi Donacien, Myles Kenlock, Emyr Huws and Gwion Edwards come into the side, possibly even Idris El Mizouni and/or Armando Dobra too.



https://www.eadt.co.uk/sport/preview-ipswich-v-fulham-1-6839494

[WhiteJC]

Scott Parker's Fulham present big opportunity for Leeds United after Anfield rollercoaster against Liverpool - Dominic Matteo
I always get nervous when Leeds United play Liverpool, I did as a player because it's a fixture that means so much do me.

I remember the first time I went back with Leeds and just before we ran out for kick-off Eddie Gray told me these are the games you want to win. He was right.

From a personal point of view Saturday's game at Anfield was incredible and, with everything that's been going on in my life this year, really emotional.

I don't have a favourite, I was just so happy to see the game, with Leeds back in the Premier League, and so pleased to see them do so well against a team with an incredible home record.

I was up and down, it was a great story and the fans went through another rollercoaster ride, just like the time we won 4-2 there and Viduks got all four.

Leeds gave a really good account of themselves and Liverpool were a bit off the pace at times, but they have this way of winning.

When you play Liverpool you have to have a plan and Leeds certainly had one with their man-to-man marking – I'd always wondered why people didn't do that but of course Bielsa does.

He went to Liverpool with a way of playing that not many teams do, they just go and try to defend. Against Liverpool you can't do that, you can't just defend for the whole game because it doesn't work.

Leeds had a right good go, it was brilliant and it very nearly came off. To keep pace with them was fantastic

It was a good start to life in the Premier League, just a little bit disappointing we couldn't get something out of the game.

The central defensive partnership of Robin Koch and Pascal Struijk did okay – they hadn't played together before but still, they were a bit naive at times and when you score three goals you expect to win the game.

They learned a few lessons, though and playing against that calibre of player, players with the pace and skill of Sadio Mane, Mo Salah and Roberto Firmino will stand them in good stead going forward.

As a centre-back in the Premier League you have to learn very quickly and I'm sure, under Bielsa, they will.

Leeds have a confidence and a momentum about them after going up as Championship champions, but they have to get rid of that naivety really quickly because the best teams find a way to beat you. I think it's just a lack of experience at that level.

Saturday's opponents and fellow new boys Fulham will have learned from their Premier League opener too.

They got off to a really poor start with that 3-0 defeat by Arsenal, although Mikel Arteta's men look a particularly good side.

Fulham will set out to be a lot more defensively sound against Leeds and Scott Parker is a good young coach, he's been up against Bielsa a few times and will know United's main strengths.

What we've seen is that people can work other teams out very quickly.

But this is an opportunity for Leeds' first three points of the season.

They need to attack games like this and go for it, without being silly defensively.

If I was a player I would be marking this game in my head as a game we could win. There are games you look at and think a point would be a good resul but this is definitely one they could win.

I wouldn't say they should win it, that would be a bit arrogant and we're not at that level yet.

It's not a must-win game but it's a big chance for three points.

Leeds fans will be desperate to get a proper look at new signing Rodrigo after his disappointing debut and the player himself will be gutted that he didn't start against Liverpool.

Patrick Bamford started, got his goal and will probably start again against Fulham because we know that Bielsa is very loyal.

Looking beyond this weekend, it will be fascinating to see what Leeds do in the transfer market.

Negotiations have changed from when I was a player and it was your wage and that was about it.

These days, deals seem so much more complicated to get over the line.

If Victor Orta is to get a deal done for Rodrigo De Paul there will be big wages involved, so would other lads be a bit put out that they're not getting the same?

There's a lot to think about and a lot to manage.

Bielsa will have his say, they won't sign anyone without him giving it the green light and I like that.

In previous times Leeds have had to sign two or three just to get players in quickly and they haven't worked out right for the club.

Any player coming in has to improve the club and eventually he needs to get a chance.

When I went from Liverpool to Leeds I always believed I was going to start.

Nowadays a few players seem to be happy to be on the bench because of the wages they're picking up.

If you've got something about you, you think I'm going to get this deal done, I'm going to impress the manager, get in his thinking and do everything right.

Before long you're going to be in the team and you stay in the team.

Any player coming to Elland Road before the window shuts is going to get an opportunity eventually and if someone comes in and does well Bielsa will reward them.

What a good time to be joining Leeds United.



https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/scott-parkers-fulham-present-big-opportunity-leeds-united-after-anfield-rollercoaster-against-liverpool-dominic-matteo-2972592

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Fans in stadiums pilots to continue in EFL amid Covid-19 pandemic

The English Football League will continue to stage pilots with up to 1,000 fans at matches this weekend, following approval from the government.

Championship, League One and League Two clubs were asked to put in requests by Tuesday in order for their plans to be signed off in time.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden will meet sports bodies on Wednesday.

However, a decision is unlikely to be reached this week on the planned return of spectators to sport from 1 October.

The English Football League (EFL) said the pilots were an "important step" for fans' safe return.

Those in local lockdown areas were told they would not receive permission to take part in the test events.

In a letter to clubs on Tuesday, the EFL's head of policy John Nagle said: "We cannot guarantee at this stage that all clubs that would like to stage a pilot will be given permission to do so, as only a limited number will be approved.

"We are still in discussions with regard to pilot matches on other dates."

Nagle said that "the next 48 hours are likely to be critical in terms of determining the direction of travel" regarding the potential return of supporters.

He asked clubs to lobby local MPs, urging them to "make representations on behalf of you, their local club, to government" and added that football was facing "an impending financial crisis as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic".

Nagle also said key messages clubs should highlight to MPs were that: "Football now wishes to see the government give the green light to the return of crowds from the beginning of October as originally planned, as will be the case in many other European countries including Belgium, Germany, France, Denmark, Austria, Poland and Switzerland.

"Failure to do so, or to at least provide any credible roadmap back to the return of fans in the near future, could have catastrophic consequences for many football clubs and the communities they represent."

He apologised for the "late notice and short timescales" but said: "We are very much in the government's hands on this one."

An EFL spokesman said it remained "in discussions with the government about the pilot programme which may include a limited number of further pilot matches during September with capacity limited to 1,000".

"The League is clear in its view that social distancing can be applied safely in football stadia and that having crowds at matches is an absolutely essential part of helping to protect club finances, which remain under extreme pressure," they added.

"Therefore, the successful delivery of further pilots will be an important step towards getting larger numbers of fans into grounds safely."

Last week, the government restricted pilot events to 1,000 spectators after a rise in coronavirus cases, and said plans for grounds to be up to a third full from 1 October would be reviewed.

The Premier League has already written to the government over pilot plans and says around £100m per month will be lost by clubs across the leagues while matches continue behind closed doors.

It is one of a number of sports bodies to have voiced concerns at the financial impact of an extended period with empty venues.

Nigel Huddleston, Minister for Sport, Tourism and Heritage, has written to former sports minister Tracey Crouch MP to state that despite changes to Covid-19 restrictions, the UK government is hopeful fans can attend events under socially distanced conditions from 1 October.

National League chairman Brian Barwick has warned that clubs risk suffering "severe economic hardship" and players will go unpaid unless the government allows fans into its stadiums next month.

Barwick has written to Dowden to express his concern.

"Unlike the upper echelons of English professional football, the National League restart depends upon crowds being allowed back in stadiums as live attendance is by far the largest source of income," he said.

"If a decision is made to delay or to cancel the return of fans, it is feared many players and staff may go unpaid due to the shortfall in match day income and the furlough scheme being discontinued.

"Furthermore, in the absence of a credible pathway for the return of spectators, it is feared that clubs could suffer severe economic hardship, and that community assets may fall out of use."

'We wouldn't last the season'
On Monday, the second pilot fixture in rugby union's Premiership took place as 1,000 spectators attended Gloucester's match with Harlequins.

Meanwhile, a report in the Times on Tuesday claims attendances could be restricted to between 1,000 and 2,500 from 1 October, depending on the coronavirus infection rate.

Gloucester chief executive Lance Bradley told BBC Radio 4 that level of restriction would be "a disaster" if put in place for the remainder of the season.

"We simply have to get fans back in reasonable numbers as soon as possible to ensure the game survives," said Bradley. "We can't keep going losing money with 1,000 or 2,000 fans.

"In the end, that would be a disaster. There are clubs in a worse position than us but we would find it very difficult.

"We wouldn't be able to make it through the season if we were only allowed crowds of 2,500."

'The consequences could be very serious for Silverstone'
Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle said the track needs to get a full crowd back for next summer's British Grand Prix as a reduced capacity is not sustainable for its business.

"If we had no fans here next year - and in fact if we are required to run with a reduced number of fans here next year - the consequences could be very, very serious for Silverstone," he told BBC Sport.

"We have had a truly dreadful 2020. We are burning through cash at an alarming rate. You cannot run a 550 acre site with no revenue coming in or very, very reduced revenue.

"If we are not hitting a level that is very, very far above 50%, then we are not even breaking even. I don't want to run with a reduced audience next year because it will simply make us lose more money, quicker - and we cannot sustain that.

"If we are not there, Silverstone will be in a dire place."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/54158891