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Thursday Fulham Stuff - 17/09/20...

Started by WhiteJC, September 16, 2020, 01:38:18 PM

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WhiteJC

EFL Results


Wednesday
West Brom
3-0
Harrogate
Ipswich
0-1
Fulham
Leeds
1-1
Hull
Bristol City
4-0
Northampton
Southampton
0-2
Brentford
Everton
3-0
Salford



WhiteJC

#1
Post-Ipswich Press Conference


Scott Parker was thrilled by the impact of the players he brought into the side for Wednesday's win at Ipswich.

Parker made nine changes to the XI that started against Arsenal, and it resulted in a highly efficient performance to progress to Round Three of the Carabao Cup.

"It was a good win, a good performance all round," he said. "It ticked a lot of boxes tonight in terms of new players coming in, getting fitness and some minutes under their belt.

"And obviously getting a clean sheet and winning will only serve us well. It's still early stages, but you always want to win football matches, no matter when they are."

Some of Fulham's best forward moves came from the full-backs, with new boys Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson bursting down the flanks at will and causing the home defence no end of problems with their crosses.

"I was delighted with the two boys to be fair," Parker said. "Antonee Robinson was attack minded, same with Kenny Tete.

"Both were fantastic today and gave us a real purpose about us by attacking with speed and putting in good deliveries. The goal came from that, so overall I'm very pleased.

"It was a lovely ball in from Kenny and that's what Mitro thrives on, them headers. It was a good performance overall from Mitro, he worked hard today, along with the debutants as well."

Two others who were singled out by the press after the game were central midfielders Frank Anguissa and Mario Lemina, who ran the show in the middle of the park.

"Anguissa, Lemina, the power and quality that they have with the ball..." Parker enthused. "We realise the qualities you need in the Premier League and they both tick the boxes of what we need.

"We've got to get them up to speed, they've not had a lot of training, so need to get some work in their legs, and this game was perfect for that. Hopefully they'll only get stronger."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/september/Post-Ipswich-Press-Conference/

WhiteJC

Report: Fulham want £33m ace in potential club-record deal; face Leicester battle

Fulham are keen to sign Germany international Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen with Leicester City also in the race for his signature, according to The Telegraph.

The Cottagers' 3-0 thumping by Arsenal on Saturday could be written off as mere opening-day jitters, ruthlessly punished by a fearsome front three of Alexandre Lacazette, Willian and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

But when you consider Fulham flopped spectacularly in the Premier League as recently as 2018/19, conceding 81 goals en route to relegation, a battering at the hands of the Gunners must have felt like a vivid case of déjà vu.

In truth, against Arsenal Fulham's back line looked as error prone and porous now as it did then.

Tim Ream gifted Lacazette an early opener while Michael Hector, a colossus in the Championship, was dizzied and dazed by Arsenal's rapid-fire movement.

It goes without saying, then, that the addition of a top-quality central defender with ten caps for the German national team would be well received at Craven Cottage.

The Telegraph reports that Tah, who is 6ft 5in and has almost 150 Bundesliga appearances under his belt and copious Champions League experience, could be on his way to London in what would be a major coup for Fulham.

A £33 million valuation could make Tah their new record signing (BILD).

The report adds that Leicester are keen too but St Etienne's Wesley Fofana remains their top target. The Frenchman admitted recently he would be "crazy" to turn down a move to the King Power Stadium (L'Equipe).



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/09/16/report-fulham-want-33m-ace-in-potential-club-record-deal-face-leicester-battle/


WhiteJC

Leicester City and Fulham to battle for Jonathan Tah

A report in The Telegraph has claimed Leicester City have joined Fulham in the race for Bayer Leverkusen defender Johnathan Tah.

Recently quoted as a £33 million target for Arsenal by German publication BILD, it would take a large chunk out of both clubs' budgets to get the centre-back.

The 6'5 24-year-old has blossomed in senior football and now could be ready to make the switch to the Premier League.

Tah, joined Leverkusen in 2015 from Hamburg, since making over 100 Bundesliga appearances for the club.



https://readleicester.com/2020/09/16/leicester-city-and-fulham-to-battle-for-jonathan-tah/

WhiteJC

Notes from Sept meeting with FFC

On Monday 14 September at 13:00, the Fulham Supporters' Trust met with Fulham FC via video conference.

The Club was represented by:

    Alistair Mackintosh (CEO)
    Darren Preston (Chief Operating Officer)
    Carmelo Mifsud (Communications Director)
    Ally Spicer (Head of Ticketing Operations – maternity cover)
    Nicola Walworth (Supporter Relations Manager)
    Charlie Harris (Communications Assistant)

The FST was represented by Board Members:

    Tom Greatrex (Chair)
    Ian Clarke (Vice Chair)
    Jerry Cope (Membership Secretary)
    Simon Duke (Board Member)

HOW IT WORKS

The Trust asks any questions that it judges are of interest to supporters, as evidenced by responses from Trust members to the advance notification of the meeting, and by generally interacting with the wider supporter base. There is no restriction placed on which questions the Trust choose to ask or points raised with the Club.

These notes are then sent to members only in advance of being posted on our website at a later date.

This meeting focused on the issues relating to any readmission of spectators to home matches for the new season, and on other matters sent to us by members, including the new OneFulham login, return to the Riverside Stand, access to live transmission of Fulham games and new kit policy.

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

The following topics were raised and discussed:

    Readmission of spectators for the new season
        Operations
        Ticketing
    New web site and OneFulham single sign on
    Live transmission of games
    New kit policy
    AOB
        U23 and Academy games
        Loan regulations
        Riverside stand

READMISSION OF SPECTATORS FOR THE NEW SEASON
Operations

The Trust asked for an update on the work being undertaken to determine the configuration, capacity and facilities available to supporters in the event that a readmission of a limited number of spectators becomes possible this season.

The Club explained that there was still no definitive news from Government or the Premier League (PL) on when some spectators might be admitted to the ground, but some good progress had been made in preparing:

    Following the publication of the final guidance from the Sports Ground Safety Authority (SGSA) and discussion at the recent Hammersmith & Fulham Safety Advisory Group (SAG), at which the Trust was represented by Mike Gregg, the calculation of the number of spectators that could be safely admitted was approximately 2,000. These would be seated in the Putney and Hammersmith stands only – approximately 1,000 in each stand – with the extensive PL requirements for broadcast, media, officials and monitoring being accommodated in the Johnny Haynes stand, which was in any event much less suitable for admitting spectators under likely conditions due to its limited concourse space and narrow stairwells.
     
    The key limiting factors on the capacity at which Craven Cottage can operate are
     
        concourse space, where it was to be assumed everyone could be on the concourse at the same time and there had to be at least 1 square metre of space per person, and
         
        access to the stadium, which is only from a single street.
         
    It was likely that spectators would be admitted in two pre-allocated waves, for example one hour and 30 minutes before kick-off, to manage the numbers in the street and at entrances at any one time.  All spectators would be likely to be allowed to leave as they chose at the end of the match.
     
    As the opening of existing catering kiosks would further limit concourse space, no kiosk catering was likely, but other options (eg click and collect, click and deliver) were being evaluated along with a limited relaxation of what food and drink could be brought into the stadium.
     
    There would not, because of segregation and space requirements, be any away fans at the Cottage, although some PL grounds might allow away fans.
     
    Further guidance was awaited from the PL on the permissible options for seating configuration, including any necessity to block off unallocated seats, before firm arrangements can be put in place.
     
    Discussion is ongoing regarding the necessity or otherwise to wear masks and the Club is awaiting Premier League guidance. It is possible that masks will be required in the concourses and on entry / exit but not whilst in the stand.
     
    Whilst all Premier League clubs have been working to a target date of 1 October for limited numbers of spectators in grounds, this is subject to public health guidance and recent developments in numbers of Covid-19 cases suggest that date may have to be re-assessed.

Ticketing

With some degree of certainty around the operational aspects of the ground, the Trust asked for an update on plans for ticket allocations, following on from discussions at and since the previous meeting.

The Club stated that current thinking is to hold a ballot for tickets, initially amongst 2019/20 season ticket holders, possibly in cycles of 3, 4 or 5 games, although with individual ballots for each game. To maximise opportunity for those wishing to attend, any season ticket holder successful in the ballot for one game would not be eligible for a subsequent game until demand from others had been met. However, it was emphasised that this is still subject to confirmation, and details of the balloting system will not be announced until there is clarity about which fixtures are available for sale.

On questioning from the Trust, further clarification included:

    Credit balances held from last season's season ticket refund process would be available to use against the price of tickets, or could be retained to be used for future season tickets.
     
    No decisions had yet been made on price levels, and would not be until a return date became more definitive. The Trust reiterated points made at the last meeting about level of pricing for tickets.
     
    It was likely prices would vary by match category.
     
    It was expected that ballots would be confined to 2019/20 season ticket holders only, but that access for 2019/20 members was under consideration.
     
    It remained the intention to allow and run ballots for season ticket holders who are in household bubbles to be able to sit together.

NEW WEB SITE AND ONEFULHAM SINGLE SIGN ON

Asked about the new web site, the Club said it had been pleased with the feedback so far and the take-up (approximately 50%) of the new OneFulham single sign on. The Club encouraged remaining supporters to complete the process as soon as practical in order to ensure access to all Club online services.

The Trust questioned the Club about issues that had been raised with the new single sign on process and were told that many of these had now been ironed out. In particular, the glitch on supporters with punctuation in their names was now resolved.

A number of supporters had encountered problems related to multiple client references associated with a single email address. The Club explained that each client reference requires a unique email address in order to set up a OneFulham account, but in the case where alternative email addresses are not available it is not imperative that every member of, say, a family group holds a OneFulham account. In this case the Friends and Family facility would work as previously to allow ticket purchase and allocation of loyalty points.

Supporters having any difficulties with setting up the new account were asked to email [email protected] and assistance would be provided.
Fulham FC App

Some Trust members were disappointed that, without apparent warning, the existing Fulham FC app had lost most of its functionality on the launch of the new website. The Club explained that the new web site has much better capabilities for use on mobile phones and that a new app was planned but that there was currently no timescale on its availability. However, they pointed out that the FFCtv app remains available and provides all Club video content, a match centre and live audio commentary. In addition, there are links to the website within the FFCtv app.

The Trust advises supporters who wish to access the new web site via a button on a mobile phone to create a home page icon. This will give quick and easy access to the new web site. You can find simple advice for both iPhone and Android online, for example this web site.

LIVE TRANSMISSION OF GAMES

Given the change of position from the Premier League on broadcast of all games in September, and following the FSA campaign which the Trust supports and is part of, the Club was asked what its position is on games being broadcast or streamed live in the absence or partial absence of spectators.

The Club explained that they were sympathetic to the view that regular supporters should have access where many were unable to attend games in person and would continue to press for proposals enabling that. Asked if the Club would support, when discussions took place at PL level, a temporary move to streaming and/or broadcast, similar to the current EFL model, they confirmed that they would. It seems likely that decisions on broadcasting games would continue to be made in blocks of fixtures as and until government policy on the readmission of spectators was clarified.

In relation to the Carabao Cup, fixtures in September (rounds 2, 3 and 4), not including those selected for TV coverage, were being streamed by the EFL at a match price of £10. This was not related to FFCtv, and may well be single camera coverage.

NEW KIT POLICY

Like the Club, the Trust felt that the new kits had been generally well received but asked whether now that sponsorship was determined for two years, next year's kit could be available well before the start of the new season. The Trust also suggested that, with the yellow kit likely to become next season's third kit, full consideration be given to a red and black design for the next away kit. The Club were pleased to note this view.

AOB

The Trust asked a number of additional questions on the following topics raised by members
U23 and Academy Games

With Motspur Park, as a secure bubble, no longer being available for these games, the Club said it was not proving easy to find a secure alternative that met PL requirements. Many games would take place without spectators at the LSE ground, and other options were still being explored.
Loan regulations

It was clarified that two domestic loans were allowed together with, subject to other restrictions on the matchday squad, unlimited loans from overseas; the Club confirmed that they continued to search to strengthen the team before the transfer deadline.
Riverside stand

In response to an enquiry by the Trust, the Club confirmed that the non-sale of season tickets for 20/21 did not affect 19/20 Riverside Stand season ticket holders' rights to return to that stand when rebuilt.

The meeting closed at 14:05



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2020/09/notes-from-sept-meeting-with-ffc/

WhiteJC

Ipswich Town 0-1 Fulham


Aleksandar Mitrovic scored his 50th goal for Fulham in his 102nd appearance for the club

Captain Aleksandar Mitrovic scored his 50th goal for Fulham as the Premier League side overcame League One Ipswich in their Carabao Cup second-round tie.

Serbia international Mitrovic headed the game's only goal from Kenny Tete's cross after 38 minutes to set up a third-round meeting with Championship side Sheffield Wednesday.

It has taken Mitrovic 102 appearances to reach 50 goals for the club he joined from Newcastle, initially on loan, in February 2018. Fulham's next highest goalscorer in that time is Tom Cairney with 14.

The 26-year-old - a second-half substitute in Fulham's Premier League opening-day defeat by Arsenal on Saturday - was denied a second goal either side of half-time by goalkeeper David Cornell, who produced an excellent double save on 59 minutes to also stop Bobby Decordova-Reid's follow-up.

Manager Scott Parker named nine changes to his side, handing debuts to Paris St-Germain loanee goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, Dutch right-back Tete, American left-back Antonee Robinson and Southampton loanee Mario Lemina.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa went closest for the visitors in a quiet first half as he volleyed Anthony Knockaert's cross narrowly wide from the edge of the box.

Knockaert went close too, firing just over from outside the penalty area, while Ipswich summer signing Oli Hawkins shot wide at close range for Paul Lambert's hosts.

Fulham travel to fellow promoted side Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday (15:00 BST), while Ipswich return to League One duties against Bristol Rovers at the same time.

'Mitrovic is vitally important' - what they said
Fulham boss Scott Parker on match-winner Aleksandar Mitrovic: "For him to get valuable minutes, score a goal, work hard for the team is vitally important for us, he's going to be a vitally important cog for us.

"When the ball comes in at that quality I was standing there thinking 'if that's on his head it's going in'. That's exactly where he finishes."

Ipswich boss Paul Lambert: "We saw Fulham's team sheet and we put a strong side out, but they have so many great players.

"But we went toe to toe with them and I thought we were excellent, some good play, some guys playing for the first time which was really good.

"Every one of them faced it today, so I thought there were some really good performances."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/54067076


WhiteJC

Report: Everton and Fulham join the race for Manchester City centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo

According to The Times' Paul Hirst, Manchester City centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo is attracting interest from Fulham, West Ham United, Brighton & Everton.

Several Championship clubs are also keeping tabs on the 22-year-old who spent last season on loan with Blackburn Rovers, and he has told City that he wants to leave.

Adarabioyo has just a year left on his deal, and he will be keen to prove himself in the Premier League after spending the last two campaigns on loan in the Championship and playing 79 games.

Everton need a new centre-back and have been linked with a loan move for Chelsea's Fikayo Tomori.

Mason Holgate is currently injured and Toffees manager Carlo Ancelotti could do with a quality centre-back with plenty of potential like Adarabioyo in his defensive ranks.

The Man City academy graduate won't be guaranteed regular playing minutes at Goodison Park, but he could fancy his chances of breaking into Fulham's XI.

Cottagers manager Scott Parker needs a quality ball-playing centre-back, and the City defender fits the bill.

He is reportedly available for £8 million, and both Fulham and Everton shouldn't have a problem getting a deal done should they desire to.



https://sportslens.com/report-everton-and-fulham-join-the-race-for-manchester-city-centre-back-tosin-adarabioyo/313906/

WhiteJC

Ipswich 0-1 Fulham: Powerful Aleksandar Mitrovic header sees off Tractor Boys as Scott Parker's side reach third round of Carabao Cup

    Aleksandar Mitrovic headed in the opener, converting Keny Tete's delivery
    Scott Parker's side dominated possession and chance creation throughout
    But they struggled to find a way through stubborn Ipswich defence again 

Aleksandar Mitrovic scored the only goal of the game to put Fulham through to the third round of the Carabao Cup in a 1-0 victory over Ipswich at Portman Road.

Named as stand-in captain on his 26th birthday, the Serbian capped off the day with a powerful header past goalkeeper David Cornell to give his side a crucial first-half lead.

The goal was also Mitrovic's 50th for the club on his 102nd appearance since joining Fulham from Newcastle - initially on loan - in January 2018.


Kenny Tete (left) delivered the assist and Aleksandar Mitrovic made no mistake with his head


The powerful forward timed his header to perfection in between the Ipswich defenders


Skippering a team which included a number of debutants, including Alphonse Areola, Mario Lemina and Antonee Robinson, Mitrovic led from the front as Fulham secured their first win of the season following on from a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday.

Fulham took charge early on and had an opportunity inside the first minute, with Neeskens Kebano playing the ball across the box to Anthony Knockaert, but his shot sailed over the crossbar.

Ipswich had to wait until the 27th minute for their first chance, as Gwion Edwards sent the ball into the area only for Oli Hawkins to send an effort wide under pressure from the Fulham defence.

Fulham continued to dominate possession but had little to show for it during most of the first half.

Knockaert had a second opportunity before half-time, but his curled attempt from the edge of the box was just over the target.


Mitrovic's goal came in the 38th minute and flew past Ipswich goalkeeper David Cornell


The Premier League side dominated the opening period and found their rewards


Mitrovic nodded his side into the lead just before the break, opening his account for the season after starting on the bench against Arsenal.

Maxime Le Marchand sent a crossfield ball to another debutant, Kenny Tete, who fired in a well-hit cross to the Serbian who made no mistake in the box, heading the ball down and beyond Cornell.

Mitrovic almost added a second when he controlled a loose high ball on his chest after it bounced over the defenders, but the Ipswich goalkeeper was able to make the save from the narrow angle.

Ipswich struggled to make their mark against the Premier League team and were largely limited to long-range strikes.


Fulham will look to continue their momentum into the Premier League having lost to Arsenal

An instinctive double save from Cornell prevented Fulham from doubling their lead just before the hour mark.

The goalkeeper was able to get down and prevent Mitrovic's header from crossing the line before managing to smother a follow-up hit from Bobby Decordova-Reid.

Ipswich came close just before full-time through Edwards, but Fulham were able to hold on to the single-goal lead and ensure they progressed through to the next round.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-8740591/Ipswich-0-1-Fulham-Powerful-Aleksandar-Mitrovic-header-sees-Tractor-Boys.html

WhiteJC

Report: Birthday boy Mitrovic provides the knock-out blow to Town in cup



Ipswich Town 0
Fulham 1


Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrated his 26th birthday in style by netting the only goal of the game, as Fulham eased past Ipswich Town and into the third round of the Carabao Cup this evening.

Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrated his 26th birthday in style by netting the only goal of the game, as Fulham eased past Ipswich Town and into the third round of the Carabao Cup this evening.

The experienced Mitrovic gave Town keeper David Cornell no chance with a bullet header in the 39th minute, following a delightful cross by man-of-the-match Kenny Tete, a Dutch right-back.

Although that proved to be the only goal of the game, played inside an empty and eerie Portman Road due to the Covid-19 restrictions, in truth League One Town never really looked like finding their way back into this tie.

Fulham, promoted to the Premier League via the play-offs at the end of last season, were a class above their hosts.

There was no lack of effort from Paul Lambert's men, but they rarely threatened an equaliser, and so it is Fulham who will entertain Sheffield Wednesday in round three.

Town showed seven changes from the side that won on the opening day of their League One campaign, 2-0 against visiting Wigan Athletic.

The four to retain their places in the starting XI were centre-halves James Wilson and Toto Nsiala, plus the midfield duo of Andre Dozzell and Jon Nolan.

It was a special night for Nsiala, who was given a rare chance to captain the team. Regular skipper Luke Chambers was on the bench, while other skipper candidates Stephen Ward and Cole Skuse were both being rested.

Up top, there was a full debut for Oli Hawkins, a summer recruit from Portsmouth, while it was Albanian winger Armando Dobra's first competitive outing of the season.

A notable name on the bench was Flynn Downes, who was included in the squad for the first time since the midfielder had requested a transfer following two failed bids by Crystal Palace, three weeks ago.

Fulham had kicked off their Premier League campaign with a 3-0 home defeat at the hands of London rivals Arsenal on Saturday.

Star striker Mitrovic, who had sat out that game due to a lack of training after his recent international commitments with Serbia, was included in the starting line-up.

And boss Scott Parker chose to include several of his many summer signings in the team, including keeper Alponse Aerola, secured on a season-long loan from Paris St Germain after spending last season on loan at Real Madrid.

Dutch right-back Tete, ex-Wigan defender Antonee Robinson and Southampton midfield loanee Mario Lemina were also given a chance to shine following their recent arrivals.

The Cottagers came close to breaking the deadlock inside the first minute as Antony Knockaert blazed over the bar from an excellent position, and Knockaert also ballooned a 20-yarder over the bar on eight minutes as Town were forced to soak up some early pressure.

There was almost a spectacular opening goal in the ninth minute, Frank Anguissa connecting sweetly with a thunderous volley from a corner kick. The ball flew only just wide of the near upright, with keeper David Cornell rooted to the spot.

Town struggled to make any headway early on. Lone striker Hawkins did home in goal on the quarter-hour mark, but the assistant referee had already raised his flag for offside before he could register a telling shot.

The home side's first real opportunity arrived in the 27th minute. Gwion Edwards managed to square in the direction of a closely-marked Hawkins, who squeezed a shot wide from the edge of the six-yard box.

Otherwise, Fulham continued to press and it was no real surprise when they finally broke the deadlock in the 39th minute, thanks to Mitrovic's unstoppable header.

Right-back Tete did the damage with a surging run down the flank, and his pinpoint cross was met by an unmarked Mitrovic, who headed firmly into the roof of the net.

And Mitrovic almost netted a second, just two minutes before half-time, when he managed to shake off the attentions of skipper Nsiala and stab in a close-range shot which Cornell did well to block for a corner.

Either side of half-time, Emyr Huws sliced a 25-yarder well wide of target, before setting up Hawkins with a 53rd minute cross which the striker headed wide from a promising position.

Downes replaced Dozzell in the 57th minute, and just seconds later Cornell made a superb double save to thwart both Mitrovic and Bobby De Cordova-Reid from point blank range. Cornell also did well to divert a goalbound shot by substitute Tom Cairney over his bar on 71 minutes.

Town struggled to even threaten an equaliser during the final quarter of the game, although Edwards at least forced a save out of Alphonse Aerola in stoppage time.

Squads

IPSWICH: Cornell, Donacien, Nsiala, Wilson, Kenlock, Dozzell (sub Downes, 57), Nolan (sub Judge, 68), Huws, Edwards, Dobra, Hawkins (sub Norwood, 68). Unused subs: Holy, Chambers, Bishop, Sears.

FULHAM: Aerola, Tete (sub Bryan, 81), Le Marchand, Odoi, Robinson, Lemina (sub Cairney, 63), Anguissa (sub Reed, 69), Kebano, Knockaert, Cordova-Reid, Mitrovic. Unused subs: Ramirez, Hector, Cavaleiro, Francois.

Referee: Dean Whitestone



https://www.eadt.co.uk/sport/ipswich-town-0-fulham-1-mitrovic-scores-winner-in-carabao-cup-1-6842182


WhiteJC

Mitrovic powers Fulham into round three

Aleksandar Mitrovic brought up a half century of goals for Fulham as he headed Scott Parker's side to a narrow victory over League One Ipswich Town and into the third round of the Carabou Cup at Portman Road. The Serbian striker, who was only a substitute as the Whites slumped to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Arsenal on the opening day of the Premier League season, buried a trademark bullet header from a fine cross by new signing Kenny Tete as the visitors' top flight class proved just enough.

Parker handed debuts to four of his summer signings. Tete was a lively presence down the right flank, buzzing forward with intent, whilst Antonee Robinson offered plenty of attacking intent from left back in a display full of energy and promise. Mario Lemina enjoyed a creditable first outing, which lasted just over an hour, whilst goalkeeper Alphonse Areola was largely until the closing seconds when Gwion Edwards escaped the attentions of Joe Bryan and fired a hopeful effort goalwards.

For the most part, Fulham's greater technical ability and control of possession had Paul Lambert's side chasing shadows. They could have grabbed the lead inside the first minute when Neeskens Kebano robbed Janoi Donacien in the right back position and pulled back an inviting low cross only for Anthony Knockaert to sky his finish under pressure from Myles Kenlock. The French winger then found Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa on the edge of the box with a cleverly-disguised corner – the Cameroonian midfielder's venomous volley flashed just wide.

Fulham's football had the greater subtlety and they continued to pose a threat to the Ipswich defence. Knockaert fired over at the end of an intricate move, but the visitors took the lead shortly afterwards with a flowing break from the back. Maxime Le Marchand started it all with a lovely switch of play out to Tete on the right. The Dutch international breezed down the line and sent over a majestic cross for Mitrovic, who marked his birthday, with a thumping header. Ipswich might have dealt with the danger more convincingly – but this is precisely the sort of service upon which the Serbian talisman will thrive.

The Whites could have had a second just before half-time. Mitrovic made a nuisance of himself, forcing an error from Aristote Nsiala, and twisted his way towards goal but David Cornell did well to foil the finish at his near post. Town battled bravely for much of the first half, but Emyr Huwys' wayward strike as space opened up for him right at the end of the first half was the closest they came to seriously testing Areola in the Fulham goal.

The second half continued in a much similar vein. Fulham probed patiently, happy to play pretty football in front of a well-organised Ipswich defence. Tete and Robinson appeared their most likely source of a second goal and it was no surprise when the former hung up another inviting cross from the right. Mitrovic rose unmarked at the far post but Cornell clawed his header off the goal-line and then denied Bobby Decordova-Reid, who really should have buried the rebound.

Knockaert fired a speculative effort narrowly wide from fully thirty yards before Tom Cairney stung Cornell's palms with a dipping drive from distance shortly after replacing Lemina. Parker's side kept pushing for a second goal that would have put the tie to bed, with Kebano coming close to adding another audacious free-kick to his collection, and Decordova-Reid shooting straight at Cornell.

Ipswich never gave up, but their forwards had a largely frustrating evening, starved of service. Edwards had their only presentable chance, that he fashioned for himself after tricking his way past Denis Odoi, but Areola made his solitary save of the evening look relatively routine. Fulham's prize for surviving this sizeable banana skin is a home tie against Sheffield Wednesday next week.

IPSWICH TOWN (4-3-3): Cornell; Donacien, Kenlock, Nsiala, Wilson; Nolan (Judge 69), Dozzell (Downes 58), Huws; Dobra, Hawkins (Norwood 68), Edwards. Subs (not used): Holy, Chambers, Bishop, Sears.

FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Areola; Tete (Bryan 81), Robinson, Odoi, Le Marchand; Anguissa (Reed 69), Lemina (Cairney 63); Knockaert, Kebano, Decordova-Reid; Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Fabri, Hector, Bryan, Francois, Cavaleiro.

GOAL: Mitrovic (38).

REFEREE: Dean Whitestone (Northamptonshire).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/09/mitrovic-powers-fulham-into-round-three/

WhiteJC

Ipswich 0-1 Fulham: Player ratings

Frankie Taylor runs the rule over the man in white at Portman Road tonight ...

Alphonse Areola – 6.
Distribution was excellent as you'd expect from a goalkeeper who was once the number one at PSG and fresh off a spell at Real Madrid. Didn't have a save to make until the very end when he made a routine stop from Gwion Edwards.

Kenny Tete – 8.
The Dutch debutant put in one of the better crosses we'll see this season, a beautifully weighted ball perfect for Aleksandar Mitrovic to power home for the opener. A willing support act from right back popping up in attacking areas. Floated in another beauty in the second for Aleksandar Mitrovic, whose header was saved. Created more chances than any other player. Good 80 minutes before coming off for Joe Bryan.

Denis Odoi – 6.
Typical Denis performance, dependable filling in on the right hand side of the central defence partnership. Distribution wasn't as good as his centre back partner but he'll be happy with another decent performance in white. Always good in the air.

Maxime Le Marchand – 7.
It's easy to forget that the left footed Frenchman has Champions League and Europa League experience to his name from his time at Nice but on nights like tonight his ability on the ball shines through. Of course, he didn't have much to defend but he's a delightful player with the ball at his feet.

Antonee Robinson – 7.
Robinson was keen to get forward, eager to intercept and carry the ball up the pitch as advertised. Mirrored Tete nicely with more of an athletic approach to full back whilst Tete was more technical and measured, he'll be satisfied with his performance today. Fizzed in a couple of really nice balls and showed how he may compete with 'play off final hero' Joe Bryan. By the full time whistle, he saw the ball more than anyone else.

Mario Lemina – 6.
Solid debut. Touched the ball more than any other player at the base of midfield up to his subbing around the hour mark. Happier being the deeper of the two at the base of midfield. Decent showing before being subbed for TC.

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa – 6.
Still getting his match sharpness back but his quality stands out with his ability to regain possession and be progressive taking on players in midfield. Nearly volleyed home a beauty from a corner. Subbed for Harrison Reed after 70 minutes.

Anthony Knockaert – 6.
Bright but unable to affect the scoresheet sums up his career thus far in a Fulham shirt. I admire his industrious nature but four shots with none on target and created 3 chances, none of which were converted.

Bobby Decordova-Reid – 5.
Considering the League One opposition, you'd have hoped Bobby would have an opportunity to really impress but sadly it wasn't quite the case. Buzzed about like he usually does but had the same amount of tackles as he had shots (2) in a game where we had over 65% possession.

Neeskens Kebano – 6.
Had a similar sort of performance to Bobby Decordova-Reid but when you're on the flank, you expect periods of being out of the game and that's the only real reason he has a 6 rather than a 5. Went close with a free kick (shock) but the game passed him by a tad.

Aleksandar Mitrovic – 7.
Physically dominant against defenders of this level. I think most Premier League defenders would call him their strongest opponent but it's much more noticeable when he's holding off two or three of these poor guys. Good header for the winner – 50 up.

Subs:

Tom Cairney – 6.
Kept the ball ticking over. More minutes in the legs.

Harrison Reed – 6.
Ctrl + C (Tom Cairney) and Ctrl + V. Helped see the game out and got the ball continuing to move.

Joe Bryan – N/A.
Not much you can really do in 10 minutes as a sub in a game that Fulham were dominating but ultimately seeing out.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/09/ipswich-0-1-fulham-player-ratings/

WhiteJC

Leicester City: Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah on Brendan Rodgers wanted list

According to a report from the Telegraph, Leicester City are eyeing a swoop for Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah along with fellow Premier League side Fulham – and he is currently valued at around £21.6 million by Transfermarkt.

Tah, who stands at a towering 6ft 5, has also been likened in the press to Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk for his imposing presence, and now the Foxes have him on their wanted list if a swoop for Wesley Fofana fails to materialise.

Indeed, Rodgers has identified Fofana as his main transfer target this summer but Tah is currently seen as the fall-back option should the move fall flat.

However, the Foxes face stiff competition from Fulham if they're to land his signature given their interest, with the Cottagers currently considering a move after they shipped three goals at the weekend.

Even though the 24-year-old has been a regular at the Bay Arena for nearly half a decade, journalist Mike McGrath explains that he could be made available this summer as Leicester City aim to bolster their defence – either through Tah or Fofana.

According to WhoScored, the nine-cap Germany international averaged an impressive 90% pass accuracy out from the back over 2019/2020 whilst winning 2.9 aerial duels per match – impressive numbers when compared to Leicester's back line.

Every Foxes defender couldn't manage that same level of playing out from the back last season, with Tah's numbers debatably making it clear why Leicester reportedly hold an interest.

Whether or not Rodgers opts for the colossus as an alternative to Fofana remains to be seen, but he could be worth the punt.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leicester-city-transfer-rumours/leicester-city-bayer-leverkusen-defender-jonathan-tah-on-brendan-rodgers-wanted-list/


WhiteJC

Result: Aleksandar Mitrovic scores winner as Fulham beat Ipswich in EFL Cup

Aleksandar Mitrovic scored the only goal of the game to put Fulham through to the third round of the Carabao Cup in a 1-0 victory over Ipswich at Portman Road.

Named as stand-in captain on his 26th birthday, the Serbian capped off the day with a powerful header past goalkeeper David Cornell to give his side a crucial first-half lead.

The goal was also Mitrovic's 50th for the club on his 102nd appearance since joining Fulham from Newcastle – initially on loan – in January 2018.

Skippering a team which included a number of debutants, including Alphonse Areola, Mario Lemina and Antonee Robinson, Mitrovic led from the front as Fulham secured their first win of the season following on from a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday.

Fulham took charge early on and had an opportunity inside the first minute, with Neeskens Kebano playing the ball across the box to Anthony Knockaert, but his shot sailed over the crossbar.

Ipswich had to wait until the 27th minute for their first chance, as Gwion Edwards sent the ball into the area only for Oli Hawkins to send an effort wide under pressure from the Fulham defence.

Fulham continued to dominate possession but had little to show for it during most of the first half. Knockaert had a second opportunity before half-time, but his curled attempt from the edge of the box was just over the target.

Mitrovic nodded his side into the lead just before the break, opening his account for the season after starting on the bench against Arsenal.

Maxime Le Marchand sent a crossfield ball to another debutant, Kenny Tete, who fired in a well-hit cross to the Serbian who made no mistake in the box, heading the ball down and beyond Cornell.

Mitrovic almost added a second when he controlled a loose high ball on his chest after it bounced over the defenders, but the Ipswich goalkeeper was able to make the save from the narrow angle.

Ipswich struggled to make their mark against the Premier League team and were largely limited to long-range strikes.

An instinctive double save from Cornell prevented Fulham from doubling their lead just before the hour mark.

The goalkeeper was able to get down and prevent Mitrovic's header from crossing the line before managing to smother a follow-up hit from Bobby Decordova-Reid.

Ipswich came close just before full-time through Edwards, but Fulham were able to hold on to the single-goal lead and ensure they progressed through to the next round.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/league-cup/result/result-aleksandar-mitrovic-scores-winner-as-fulham-beat-ipswich-in-efl-cup_414609.html

WhiteJC

Aleksandar Mitrovic scores 50th Fulham goal as Scott Parker's side see off Ipswich in Carabao Cup


Mitrovic scored the only goal of the game ( AP )

Fulham have booked their place in the Carabao Cup third round after beating Ipswich Town.

Aleksandar Mitrovic scored his 50th goal for the club as Scott Parker's side navigated through a potentially tricky tie away to League One opposition.

Kenny Tete, one of four Fulham debutants, provided the cross for the Serbian on 38 minutes, heading home to score the only goal of the game.

Ipswich goalkeeper David Cornell denied him a second either side of half-time, also producing a fine save on the hour to deny Bobby Decordova-Reid.

Fulham will meet Sheffield Wednesday in the next round. West Brom meanwhile saw off League Two opposition in Harrogate Town.

Rekeem Harper and Hal Robson-Kanu each scored a stunner inside 22 minutes with Callum Robinson tapping home a third 13 minutes from time.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-ipswich-score-result-aleksandar-mitrovic-carabao-cup-a4549146.html

WhiteJC

Parker pleased with Fulham's progress

A delighted Scott Parker felt Fulham's performance at Portman Road 'ticked a lot of boxes' as the Whites eased past Ipswich to book a place in the third round of the League Cup.

The Premier League side progressed thanks to a first half header from skipper Aleksandar Mitrovic. The birthday boy powered home his 50th goal for Fulham from a fine cross by debutante Kenny Tete and, although the visitors probably should have killed off the contest long before the end, Parker was pleased with the night's work.

The Fulham head coach told his post-match press conference:

It was a good win, a good performance all round. It ticked a lot of boxes tonight in terms of new players coming in, getting fitness and some minutes under their belt. And obviously getting a clean sheet and winning will only serve us well. It's still early stages, but you always want to win football matches, no matter when they are.

He singled out Fulham's two new full-backs for particular praise.

I was delighted with the two boys to be fair. Antonee Robinson was attack minded, same with Kenny Tete. Both were fantastic today and gave us a real purpose about us by attacking with speed and putting in good deliveries. The goal came from that, so overall I'm very pleased. It was a lovely ball in from Kenny and that's what Mitro thrives on, them headers. It was a good performance overall from Mitro, he worked hard today, along with the debutants as well.

Parker felt Fulham were powerful in the middle of the park, with new signing Mario Lemina and the returning Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa getting through plenty of work to put themselves in contention for a starting spot at Leeds on Saturday.

Anguissa, Lemina, the power and quality that they have with the ball. We realise the qualities you need in the Premier League and they both tick the boxes of what we need. We've got to get them up to speed, they've not had a lot of training, so need to get some work in their legs, and this game was perfect for that. Hopefully they'll only get stronger.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/09/parker-pleased-with-fulhams-progress/


WhiteJC

Scott Parker pays tribute to "vitally important" Alexander Mitrovic

Scott Parker described Aleksandar Mitrovic as "vitally important" for Fulham after his goal sent them into the third round of the Carabao Cup in a 1-0 victory over Ipswich.

Named as stand-in captain on his 26th birthday, the Serbian capped off the day with a powerful header past goalkeeper David Cornell to give his side a crucial first-half lead.

The goal was also Mitrovic's 50th for the club on his 102nd appearance since joining Fulham from Newcastle – initially on loan – in January 2018.

"His last start was Wigan away, which was some months ago," Parker said when asked about the striker's fitness, after he started on the bench during a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday.

"For him to get valuable minutes, score a goal, work hard for the team is vitally important for us, he's going to be a vitally important cog for us."

Parker added: "When the ball comes in at that quality I was standing there thinking 'if that's on his head it's going in'. That's exactly where he finishes."

The Fulham side also had a number of debutants, including Alphonse Areola, Mario Lemina, Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson, and Parker also hailed their contributions.

"The debutants did very well," he said. "The keeper didn't have a lot to do, but both full-backs were outstanding. They provided a good attacking threat with a lot of speed and put good crosses into the box. The goal came from that. And Lemina showed his quality.

"They showed what they are going to bring to this team with their quality."

Paul Lambert praised his Ipswich side for a close-fought contest despite the defeat.

Speaking after the game, he said: "I couldn't have asked any more. We were, I thought, really good.

"We saw Fulham's team sheet and we put a strong side out there, but they have so many great players there Fulham – they're a really great team and really strong.

"But we went toe to toe with them and I thought we were excellent, some good play, some guys playing for the first time which was really good and every one of them faced it today, so I thought there were some really good performances."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/league-cup/news/scott-parker-pays-tribute-to-vitally-important-alexander-mitrovic_414624.html

WhiteJC

Leeds United fans make team prediction for Fulham after Carabao Cup exit to Hull City

Marcelo Bielsa rang the changes as Leeds were knocked out on penalties

Leeds United fans have reacted with mixed feelings following their Carabao Cup exit to Hull City.

The Whites suffered defeat in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw with their Yorkshire rivals, meaning they exit the competition at the second round.

Following 11 changes by Marcelo Bielsa from the side that impressed against Liverpool, plenty of Whites fans were disappointed to see players fail to make the case that they should be starting.

Yet, with the focus on Premier League survival this season, not many were disappointed to see an early exit from the Carabao Cup.



https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/leeds-united-fans-make-team-18947559

WhiteJC


Ipswich Town 0-1 Fulham: Aleksandar Mitrovic heads Cottagers to Carabao Cup win
Fulham now host Sheffield Wednesday in the Carabao Cup third round

Aleksandar Mitrovic scored the only goal of the game to put Fulham through to the third round of the Carabao Cup in a 1-0 victory over Ipswich at Portman Road.

Named as stand-in captain on his 26th birthday, the Serbian capped off the day with a powerful header past goalkeeper David Cornell to give his side a crucial first-half lead.

The goal was also Mitrovic's 50th for the club on his 102nd appearance since joining Fulham from Newcastle – initially on loan – in January 2018.

Skippering a team which included a number of debutants, including Alphonse Areola, Mario Lemina and Antonee Robinson, Mitrovic led from the front as Fulham secured their first win of the season following on from a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday.

Fulham took charge early on and had an opportunity inside the first minute, with Neeskens Kebano playing the ball across the box to Anthony Knockaert, but his shot sailed over the crossbar.

Ipswich had to wait until the 27th minute for their first chance, as Gwion Edwards sent the ball into the area only for Oli Hawkins to send an effort wide under pressure from the Fulham defence.

Fulham continued to dominate possession but had little to show for it during most of the first half. Knockaert had a second opportunity before half-time, but his curled attempt from the edge of the box was just over the target.

Mitrovic nodded his side into the lead just before the break, opening his account for the season after starting on the bench against Arsenal.

Maxime Le Marchand sent a crossfield ball to another debutant, Kenny Tete, who fired in a well-hit cross to the Serbian who made no mistake in the box, heading the ball down and beyond Cornell.

Mitrovic almost added a second when he controlled a loose high ball on his chest after it bounced over the defenders, but the Ipswich goalkeeper was able to make the save from the narrow angle.

Ipswich struggled to make their mark against the Premier League team and were largely limited to long-range strikes.

An instinctive double save from Cornell prevented Fulham from doubling their lead just before the hour mark.

The goalkeeper was able to get down and prevent Mitrovic's header from crossing the line before managing to smother a follow-up hit from Bobby Decordova-Reid.

Ipswich came close just before full time through Edwards, but Fulham were able to hold on to the single-goal lead and ensure they progressed through to the next round.



https://www.skysports.com/football/ipswich-vs-fulham/report/435923


WhiteJC

Sheffield Wednesday trip to London confirmed as remarkable Monk cup record is extended
Sheffield Wednesday will make their first trip to London in the 2020/21 campaign next week after Premier League Fulham sneaked past Ipswich Town in the Carabao Cup.

The Owls last played at Craven Cottage on the penultimate game of last season, where an Atdhe Nuhiu second-half double threatened a comeback in a thrilling 5-3 defeat. Scott Parker's men went on to seal promotion through the playoffs.

A first-half goal by Aleksandar Mitrovic was enough to get the Cottagers through. The clash – which will be played on Tuesday or Wednesday next week – will be the second consecutive time Garry Monk's men will have faced off against Premier League opposition in the third round, having lost out to Everton last season.

Speaking to the media after his side's second round win at Rochdale, Monk said he had no preference over who won last night's tie.

"They're both long trips," he said. "I wanted a home draw!

"All those stats will come out, on my record in cups and that we're always away from home. But we'll just concentrate on ourselves, whichever one it'll be, but if we play like tonight and on Saturday and even the Walsall game, that's what we'll try to do.

"We want to show that attitude, what we've been working on and try to build towards what we hope will be a big season for us."

Up until the Owls' Hillsborough defeat to Manchester City last season Monk remarkably never been drawn at home in eight FA Cup ties. Including the forthcoming trip to Fulham, of Monk's last 15 League Cup ties, only four will have been from a home dugout.

The clash will be only the Owls' second third round outing in five seasons, with last season's run to the third round accelerated by a first-round bye after Bury hurtled towards financial ruin.

In the 2015/16 season, third and fourth round wins over Premier League duo Newcastle and Arsenal are looked upon as ties that saw momentum build on a run to the Championship playoff final. It is the last time the Owls, who were knocked out in the quarter-final by Stoke, progressed beyond the third round.



https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-wednesday/sheffield-wednesday-trip-london-confirmed-remarkable-monk-cup-record-extended-2974395

WhiteJC

Fulham fans react to performance of Andre Zambo Anguissa during Ipswich win

The man with 15 caps for his Cameroon was in fine form.

Fulham progressed to round three of the Carabao Cup last night with a 1-0 win over League One outfit Ipswich Town and supporters were raving about Andre Zambo Anguissa.

Aleksandar Mitrovic fired the game's only goal and gave the Cottagers some confidence after their drubbing to Arsenal on Saturday.

It was the performance of Anguissa who caught the eye though and it appears the Cameroonian might have a future at the club.

The 24-year-old was part of the club's spending spree ahead of their last campaign in the Premier League but didn't enjoy a great time of things.

After his £30 million transfer from Marseille (Goal), he made 22 appearances in the Premier League but was sent out to Villarreal last season.

The 39 games he played in all competitions for the Spanish side clearly did the trick because he looks like a different player now.

Anguissa came on as a substitute on Saturday and managed 69 minutes of last night's win in the League Cup.

Following his performance, supporters were quick to react on Twitter, with many believing he could become a big player this season.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-fans-react-to-performance-of-andre-zambo-anguissa-during-ipswich-win/