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Sunday Fulham Stuff - 18/10/20...

Started by WhiteJC, October 17, 2020, 10:02:36 AM

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WhiteJC

Results



Saturday
Everton
2-2
Liverpool
Chelsea
3-3
Southampton
Man City
1-0
Arsenal
Newcastle
1-4
Man Utd


WhiteJC

#1
Sheff Utd Matchday Preview


Sheffield United v Fulham | Bramall Lane | Sunday 18th October 2020 | 12pm | #SHUFUL

The opposition

    Sheffield United are one of three sides looking for their first Premier League points of the season. Burnley and Fulham are the other two, so something has got to give at Bramall Lane this weekend.
    Like Fulham, the Blades felt aggrieved that they went into the international break on the back of a defeat, with an impressive performance at the Emirates counting for nothing as they were beaten 2-1 by Arsenal.
    Sunday could see the Whites come up against Ollie Norwood for the first time since his highly successful loan spell at the Club, when he helped us to promotion via the Play-Offs in 2017/18.


Sheff Utd team news

The international break has not been a kind one for United, with Oliver Burke and John Fleck missing Scotland's matches, while it was the same situation for David McGoldrick and John Egan with the Republic of Ireland. One man who will definitely miss Sunday's clash is Jack O'Connell following knee surgery, but a debut for record signing Rhian Brewster is expected.

Fulham team news

Damaged ankle ligaments have ruled Joachim Andersen out of a Fulham debut, but Tosin Adarabioyo and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are in contention. Mario Lemina is back available, but Harrison Reed is not yet ready, while Kenny Tete remains out with the calf issue which led to him seeing a specialist before the international break.

Coverage

The game will be shown live on BT Sport Box Office. Instructions on how to purchase the match can be found here. FFCtv subscribers can also listen to live commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid.

Form

Sheff Utd: LD*LLL

Fulham: LWLLL

*Lost on penalties

Pre-match quotes

"Scott is a committed and intelligent football man and he will want to take this opportunity and be a success."

Chris Wilder
Sheffield United manager


"What Chris has done at Sheffield United is nothing short of incredible. I have no doubt they'll go and pick up some results and do well again this year."

Scott Parker
Fulham Head Coach



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/october/Sheff-Utd-Matchday-Preview/

WhiteJC

Parker admits he faces 'big challenge' managing Fulham fringe players

Scott Parker admits he has a "big challenge" on his hands with the disaffected players who won't get a Fulham squad number.

The Whites were hoping to loan or transfer another three or four players on the EFL transfer deadline day.

Instead, they managed to offload just one – Anthony Knockaert's temporary switch to Nottingham Forest – with Terence Kongolo arriving after a move from Huddersfield.

That leaves the Fulham head coach with a headache.

At least four of his players will be out in the cold until January at the earliest.

Parker has to decide which four players from his squad of 29 to leave out in order to meet the requisite 25 allowed by the Premier League.

Parker said: "It's a big challenge. It's a very big squad and we tried to trim that squad down.

"Now, it's a job for me to manage individuals and team dynamics; managing that team cohesion gives us the best chance.

"There's going to be players who won't get into that squad. But I've faced that challenge before and it's up to me to make a decision as a squad up until January."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/parker-admits-he-faces-big-challenge-managing-fulham-fringe-players


WhiteJC

Chris Wilder insists Sheffield United not feeling down despite indifferent start

Chris Wilder insists Sheffield United are not feeling sorry for themselves as they look to kick-start their season against Fulham.

The Blades were a revelation last season as they finished ninth on their return to the Premier League but, by Wilder's own admission, the new campaign has not gone to plan so far.

Wilder's side have lost all four of their matches, scoring only once, and only Fulham are below the Blades in the table heading into the weekend's fixtures.

"We aren't feeling sorry for ourselves and I don't see a team who have put the white flag up," said Wilder ahead of Sunday's clash at Bramall Lane.

"Results affect belief a touch and results affect confidence a touch, and we are looking for that first point and first result to give us that confidence back in our play.

"You never know when that result will come along and kick-start your season, obviously we hope it is on Sunday.

"Every game is an opportunity to pick up points in this division and we haven't done that yet. What you look for among players when you're in among them is their attitude and body language and that's been good, they are looking forward to the next game.

"We aren't jumping through hoops and thinking everything is great and brilliant, we are down where we don't want to be and we are the only one's who can change that."

Like the Blades, Fulham have also lost all of their Premier League games so far and Wilder added: "I'm not going to write us off at this early stage and no-one should be, and I don't think (Fulham manager) Scott (Parker) will write off their chances either.

"They will want it on Sunday just as much as we do and they will have that siege mentality where people have an opinion on them, but my opinion on them is that they have a lot of very good players, decent pedigree and a manager who is a hugely enthusiastic, committed and talented football man."

Wilder will hand club-record signing Rhian Brewster his debut on Sunday, but the Blades boss has yet to decide if that will be in the starting line up or from the bench.

"Rhian has been fabulous, a breath of fresh air, and he's been lively and bright in training," said Wilder.
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"Rhian has been good but it's a big decision whether to start him as regards the condition he came to us in, having not played much football and flitted between Liverpool's Under-23s and first team.

"You can find at times when players get caught up between the two that their fitness isn't where it needs to be. But he's an undoubted talent and has given everyone a lift around the place."

Wilder will check on his returning international players before finalising his plans.

The Blades have a Covid-19 issue with an unnamed player who has returned from the international break, as well as individuals nursing injury after representing their countries. Striker Lys Mousset (ankle) remains out.



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/chris-wilder-insists-sheffield-united-not-feeling-down-despite-indifferent-start-1602925204000

WhiteJC

Big challenge ahead for Scott Parker as he looks to trim down Fulham squad

Fulham manager Scott Parker admitted he has a big challenge in selecting his 25-man squad as his side look to put their poor start to this Premier League campaign behind them

The Cottagers are currently rooted to the foot of the Premier League table with no points from their first four matches.

Parker currently has a squad of 31 to trim down to 25, following a number of transfers including loan signings Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Joachim Andersen as well as permanent deals for Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson.

When asked how much of a challenge it will be to manage the squad, Parker said: "(A) big challenge.

"Obviously of course a very big squad, trying to trim that down was – but obviously that's a job now for me in terms of how to manage players, manage individuals and manage the team dynamics that gives us the best chance of keeping that cohesion amongst the players, it gives us the best chance to be successful this year.

"This is a challenge which is one of many we're going to face this year.

"I'm right in saying that there is going to be players who won't get into that 25-man squad so players need game time and players obviously will try and get that if they can.

"If not then it'll be a challenge, but one which is our concern and we had that last year as well."

Fulham face a trip to Sheffield United on Sunday, with both sides currently searching for their first points of the season, and Parker expects a difficult challenge.

He said: "Big game for us, exactly the same as Sheffield United. Big game for both teams but what game isn't?

"Every game is going to be a big game for us this year and of course maybe an extra bit on it the fact that both teams haven't got any points on the board as of yet so yeah, of course, I understand that.

"Every game is going to be big for us this year and this coming weekend is no different from that, so always we'll prepare and go into that game to try to win it really. So a tough game ahead yes for sure, but one we're looking forward to."



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/big-challenge-ahead-for-scott-parker-as-he-looks-to-trim-down-fulham-squad-1602925236000

WhiteJC

Six-Pointer as Sheffield United Face Fulham

The International break is over and we're set for another big weekend of club action across Europe. Everton host Liverpool in the Merseyside derby, Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta go face-to-face again as Manchester City welcome Arsenal, while in Italy, Inter and AC Milan meet in a historic derby. But, perhaps one of the most important game of the weekend is overlooked as Sheffield United face Fulham in a huge six-pointer.

On Sunday, the Blades welcome Fulham to Bramall Lane with both sides still seeking their first points of the season. Both clubs had different campaigns last season but face similar predicaments in the early exchanges this season. For Sheffield United, after announcing themselves in their return to the English top-flight last term, they will be looking to regain some of the form they showed last season. Fulham, meanwhile, looked unconvincing in parts despite gaining promotion back to the Premier League, and have looked like rookies in the league again.

Importance of Sheffield United Playing Fulham
Six Pointer at Between Sheffield United and Fulham
The last time Sheffield United hosted Fulham in the top flight was in early 2007. Back then, Fulham had players like Vincenzo Montella and Luis Boa Morte in their ranks. Kenny Jackett was Swansea City manager, and Greece were European champions. Goals from Jon Stead and Michael Tonge helped the Blades to a 2-0 home win, in a season in which both sides battled to stay up.

Calling this meeting 'a battle between two sides to stay up' – 13 years later – does seem hasty. The season is only four games old and will be subject to much change. But it's not too much to say this game has massive importance, even early on.

For Sheffield United, it's about making sure they haven't been found out. Second season syndrome is regularly spewed for clubs in the league. Many will point out Ipswich Town in 2001/02, and Birmingham City in 2010/11, among others, as indication. And many are already using that as a stick to beat Chris Wilder and his side. Their failure to provide any real attacking threat in their four league defeats so far is suggesting to many that they need to come up with something. Beating Fulham won't change those claims, but it will get them back on their feet.

Fulham's Need for Victory
When Fulham went up in the 2017/18 season, they came up playing breath-taking fast-paced attacking football. They followed that up the following campaign by spending in excess of £100 million, a move which fell flat on their face. Ten months and three managers later, they were back in the second division, and, frankly, glad to be back.

This time around, they came up without much conviction, and have seemed to go too much the other way, spending little and not making real quality additions. On paper, you could argue Fulham have the worst squad in the league. And they're not helped by having, in Scott Parker, a manager who's still to convince. The shift in quality on the field means they can't get bailouts, and now look off the pace.

Talk of Fulham going straight back down is a possibility, but defeat at Bramall Lane might make that threat look more serious. A defeat against an opponent that hasn't looked innovative in attack won't be a good sign, and the dip may well become a slide.

What Comes After This Game?
After the meeting in 2007, Fulham managed to stave off relegation, finishing 16th in the league. Sheffield United, meanwhile, couldn't quite stay up, going down after losing against Wigan Athletic on the final day of the season.

Are these two teams already in a relegation battle? Maybe. Fulham are one of the favourites to go down, and whatever happens in this game is unlikely to change that. Sheffield United meanwhile, are not quite in the same bracket. But after this game, the Blades have trips to Liverpool and Chelsea, either side of a home game against Manchester City. Lose to Fulham, and it's not implausible that they head into the next international break still seeking a point.

For morale and form, Sheffield United and Fulham have a lot riding on this game. And perhaps no other teams in Europe with such need come face-to-face this weekend.



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2020/10/17/sheffield-united-fulham-premier-league-weekend/


WhiteJC

Scott Parker: 'Selecting 25-man Premier League squad will be difficult'

Fulham manager Scott Parker admitted he has a big challenge in selecting his 25-man squad as his side look to put their poor start to this Premier League campaign behind them

The Cottagers are currently rooted to the foot of the Premier League table with no points from their first four matches.

Parker currently has a squad of 31 to trim down to 25, following a number of transfers including loan signings Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Joachim Andersen as well as permanent deals for Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson.

When asked how much of a challenge it will be to manage the squad, Parker said: "(A) big challenge.

"Obviously of course a very big squad, trying to trim that down was – but obviously that's a job now for me in terms of how to manage players, manage individuals and manage the team dynamics that gives us the best chance of keeping that cohesion amongst the players, it gives us the best chance to be successful this year.

"This is a challenge which is one of many we're going to face this year.

"I'm right in saying that there is going to be players who won't get into that 25-man squad so players need game time and players obviously will try and get that if they can.

"If not then it'll be a challenge, but one which is our concern and we had that last year as well."

Fulham face a trip to Sheffield United on Sunday, with both sides currently searching for their first points of the season, and Parker expects a difficult challenge.

He said: "Big game for us, exactly the same as Sheffield United. Big game for both teams but what game isn't?

"Every game is going to be a big game for us this year and of course maybe an extra bit on it the fact that both teams haven't got any points on the board as of yet so yeah, of course, I understand that.

"Every game is going to be big for us this year and this coming weekend is no different from that, so always we'll prepare and go into that game to try to win it really. So a tough game ahead yes for sure, but one we're looking forward to."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/scott-parker-selecting-25-man-premier-league-squad-will-be-difficult_418697.html

WhiteJC

'I hear League One is nice' – Plenty of Huddersfield fans react as transfer news is confirmed

Huddersfield Town have confirmed that defender Terence Kongolo has left the club to rejoin Premier League side Fulham on a permanent basis.

Kongolo was on loan at The Cottagers during the second half of last season as they won promotion to the Premier League, although injury restricted the centre back to just two appearances.

Despite that, Kongolo has now returned to Craven Cottage on a permanent basis for an undisclosed fee, reported to be worth around £4million.

The move capped what was a disappointing end to the summer transfer window for Huddersfield, with the club also failing to find a replacement for Karlan Grant following his move to West Brom, and a deal to bring winger Rolando Aarons to the club from Newcastle falling through.

Perhaps not surprisingly therefore, plenty of Huddersfield fans appeared far from impressed as they took to Twitter to react to news of Kongolo's departure.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/i-hear-league-one-is-nice-plenty-of-huddersfield-fans-react-as-transfer-news-is-confirmed/

WhiteJC

Ollie Norwood remembers the day he realised what Sheffield United were all about ahead of Fulham reunion
As the final whistle blew on a remarkable game that saw Fulham beat Sheffield United 5-4 on a crazy night at Bramall Lane, Oliver Norwood slumped to the turf in exhaustion.

"I remember thinking: "Thank God that's over'," Norwood, who played in midfield for Fulham that day, remembers.

"I was knackered. But for me, that game just summed up United under Chris Wilder.

"They just kept going and never gave it up. I think it was 5-2 at one point? If the game had carried on for a bit longer, it might have been 7-6 or 8-7 or something.

"It was an incredible night; one of my most memorable games in football. It had everything.

"I remember speaking to Knilly [Alan Knill, United's assistant manager who Norwood played under at Scunthorpe earlier in his career] afterwards and he said that's what the Gaffer is like.

"If someone's going to beat us, then they've got to earn it. If they're better than us then that's fine. But they're going to have to be because they won't out-run us or out-work us."

On Sunday, back at Bramall Lane, the two sides will meet again just under three years on from that crazy game, which saw both Leon Clarke and Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon score hat-tricks.

Norwood could return to the United line-up after a period on the sidelines, and will have extra incentive to perform if he does so against another of his former clubs that he helped to promotion.

A year after getting into the Premier League with Brighton and being sent on loan to Fulham, Norwood was part of the Cottagers side that won the play-off final at Wembley.

But he had to wait until he remarkably won promotion for a THIRD time in three years, with United, to finally make his top-flight debut.

Norwood, speaking in the book 'We're not going to Wembley' which charted United's promotion to the Premier League, remembers how he thanked United boss Chris Wilder, not long after promotion was secured, for 'rescuing him'.

"I went to Brighton after the 2016 Euros, and it was a difficult period in my life," Norwood added.

"My wife, Abigail, was pregnant and really ill, so we were living apart. My head wasn't fully there.

"But I went on loan to Fulham and fell in love with football again. We got promoted at Wembley, and then it was back to Brighton.

"They said I could leave, but then turned down bids when they came in and started asking for silly things. I don't think clubs realise sometimes that they're messing with people's lives. I had plenty of arguments, saying: 'You don't want me here, so let me go'.

"I was training on my own, running up and down the side of the pitch while the first team lads were training, and there were days when I didn't want to go in and face it.

"But my family and my little boy got me through the hard periods, and I realised I had to do it for them. It wasn't just about me anymore. So I feel that United came in for me just at the right time, and that's what I mean by the gaffer rescuing me."



https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/nostalgia/ollie-norwood-remembers-day-he-realised-what-sheffield-united-were-all-about-ahead-fulham-reunion-3006254


WhiteJC

Sheffield United pressing for John Egan to be allowed out of coronavirus isolation to face Fulham
Sheffield United are working with the authorities to see if central defender John Egan can be available for Sunday's crucial game at home to Fulham.

Egan missed the Republic of Ireland's games against Wales and Finland after coming into contact with a team-mate who tested positive for coronavirus two days earlier. The centre-back has since returned a negative test but because of the time the virus can take to manifest itself, he is supposed to self-isolate for 14 days, ruling him out of the Blades' game against Fulham.

Manager Chris Wilder confirmed the club are looking into whether an exception can be made, particularly as he has other, unspecified, injuries to deal with. His is by no means the only club facing this situation, and for that reason Wilder has joined the calls for international football to be suspended again during the pandemic.

"We have got a couple of injury issues and a potential issue with one of our players," he said. "I can't confirm or deny if he will be available for the weekend, we are still working with the authorities."

As the Blades' central defender, Egan is a key fixture in a defensive unit which has already lost Jack O'Connell, to his left, for what is likely to be the remainder of the campaign because of knee surgery.

Egan missed the match against Leeds United through suspension having been controversially sent off at Aston Villa. Ethan Ampadu, who has been on international duty with Wales, deputised then and is likely to do so again if the club's appeals fall on deaf ears.

The Republic of Ireland's Nations League games were costly for the Blades, with David McGoldrick picking up an injury that presumably makes him a doubt for Sunday's match between two sides yet to pick up a Premier League point this season.

Wilder says he is "a huge backer of players going away on international duty," adding: "It improves them as a players and there isn't one who isn't hugely proud to represent their country. Playing against different players and systems, it makes them better and is a great experience."

However, he does think that games should be put on hold while the covid-19 pandemic is having such a big effect.

The March matches and this summer's European Championships were postponed because of the virus, but games resumed in September. Some club managers have argued they should be paused once more.

"I have that view, that international football probably should be eased off," said Wilder. "One and a half metre (social distancing regulations) in one country, two in another, no crowds and boys flying about all over the place. I'm sure the FAs will survive.

"I would say every manager would say it's far from acceptable or comfortable what's happened. All the pre-season plans were more difficult because of the people going way. Seven, eight or nine flying about all over the place made it difficult to do any preparation, and then you throw covid into the mix."



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/sheffield-united-pressing-john-egan-be-allowed-out-coronavirus-isolation-face-fulham-3005519

WhiteJC

Sheffield United v Fulham - Chris Wilder ready to make tough decisions
Chris Wilder left his Sheffield United squad a little threat – or encouragement depending who you were – before many headed off on international duty a fortnight ago.

"I've got to make sure I pick the right side against Fulham," said the Blades manager. "A few players not playing as well as they possibly should be and there are some good players not playing for us."

Last season – at least before Covid – you could almost pick the Blades team from week to week without much thought, but at the start of this campaign things are still in flux at Bramall Lane.

"I've got the balls to change it around, the personnel and to change the way we play," said Wilder yesterday, though it would be a surprise if anyone needed telling. "I've done that at different clubs and I'll do that again if it's necessary but I've got to take an overall view of what players have done, what the system's done, what we've done over the last four games and what the balance has been like in and out of possession."

That last caveat does not sound like a man about to rip things up and start again – why would he after so much success with an innovative formation? – but changes could nevertheless be afoot. Tomorrow's game against Fulham does, after all, feature two teams yet to pick up a Premier League point in 2020-21.

The main goal of Wilder's dealings in the transfer window which closed yesterday having been left slightly ajar on October 5 was to increase competition for places at Bramall Lane.

Of last season's fixtures, Dean Henderson has returned to Manchester United, Jack O'Connell is not expected to play again this term after knee surgery, John Egan will be missing unless the Blades can convince the authorities a negative coronavirus test means he does not have to isolate for a second week despite coming into contact with a sufferer, John Fleck has been picking up minor injuries lately and Oliver Norwood has been dropped.

The heat is on for the likes of George Baldock, a Premier League ever-present at right wing-back last season. Wilder signed Jayden Bogle to turn it up, and Baldock is not complaining.

"The manager's been able to recruit two good players in every position across the board, in some cases more," he points out. "He knows exactly what he's doing, training's ramped up and everyone's been on their game even away from the place. No one can slack off because you've got a superb player behind you ready to take your position.

"When you see a fresh face and quality being brought in it just gives everyone a lift. It's good for everyone. The staff will probably tell you the exact same thing, training ramps up a few notches."

There are certainly no hints of animosity from Baldock towards the younger rival brought in to make his life less comfortable.

"It's top-end competition," he says. "You need people keeping you on your toes.

"I really get on with Jayden, he's a great lad and we speak a lot but whoever's got the shirt it's up to the other person to push and try and get the best for the club.

"We've got one common goal here, to help progress Sheffield United Football Club. There's no room for selfishness or egos."

As well as keeping Baldock on his toes, Wilder has also looked to add more pace and ruthlessness at the other end of the field. Oliver Burke was signed in time to start the season, and Rhian Brewster came on a club record fee from Liverpool just before the international break. The paperwork was not completed in time to make his debut at Arsenal but he withdrew from the England Under-21 squad to spend the fortnight getting up to speed for tomorrow.

"Can he do 90 (minutes)? Can he do 70? Is it better to bring him in when the game opens up? He wants to start and it looks like he can," says Wilder and his new forward may be asked to with Burke and David McGoldrick picking up injuries with their countries. Certainly the Blades have been too blunt in front of goal this season, with only McGoldrick's two strikes to show for five matches in all competitions.

"There's a stat that we are the fourth or fifth creators of big chances, but we're obviously not taking them," says the manager.

Already Brewster seems to have made an impact. "Fabulous, a breath of fresh air," says Wilder. "He's given us a spark."

According to Baldock: "He's got a great personality. Rhian's funny, he's got that cheeky London kind of swag."

Nice guys are all well and good, but the Blades need winners too.

"I'm not looking to bring players in that can make us any worse," adds Wilder.

"I want to make us better and Rhian does."

He added: "There's no downside to bringing really good players in.

"Ethan (Ampadu), Jayden, Max (Lowe), Burkey – they have all lifted the sessions and the standards."

That will spare Wilder any Churchillian speeches to lift a squad for whom the form table looks pretty bleak.

"There's no big messages," he insists. "To play in the Premier League, that's the motivation. We'll put a few little things across but the players have lifted me in a way. They've shown no sign of feeling sorry for themselves.

"I don't need to motivate them at the moment."

Baldock adds: "There's definitely no need to feel sorry for ourselves. We had a great campaign last year, expectation levels have risen and we've definitely fallen a little bit short of that."

It would appear the resolve is as strong as ever on the training pitch is as strong as ever. Now it must be transferred to where it matters the most.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/sheffield-united-v-fulham-chris-wilder-ready-make-tough-decisions-3006532

WhiteJC

Well done Parker – Fulham signing this 26-year-old Championship star is indeed a sensible move

Why Fulham re-signing Terence Kongolo is a smart move
As confirmed via Fulham's official website, Fulham have announced the return of Dutch international defender Terence Kongolo to Craven Cottage on a permanent deal.

The 26-year-old has joined the West London outfit on a four-year deal until 2024 for an undisclosed fee from Huddersfield Town, with Fulham reserving the option to extend his stay by a further 12 months. (h/t Fulham FC)

Kongolo spent the second half of last season on loan at Fulham but his temporary spell at the English capital was cut short by an unfortunate foot injury.

Profile
Born in Switzerland, Terence Kongolo rose through the youth ranks of Feyenoord and made his professional debut in the Eredivisie during the 2011-12 season. He gradually established himself as one of the best young defenders in the Netherlands over the next two campaigns, with his impressive rise earning him a place in the Dutch national team at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Kongolo was a part of the Dutch side that finished third at the World Cup and eventually led Feyenoord to KNVB Cup and Eredivisie Cup successes before departing for Monaco in 2017. Having enjoyed his first taste of Champions League football with the French outfit, the 26-year-old joined Huddersfield Town on loan in January 2018.

The Dutch international put in a series of top-notch displays towards the back end of the 2017-18 campaign to steer Huddersfield to safety in the Premier League. Kongolo's telling contribution prompted the Terriers to make him their club-record signing for £18million but the centre-back couldn't save them from relegation in the following campaign.

Kongolo found himself out of favour at Huddersfield following the club's relegation back down to the Championship and has now left the club after making 60 appearances in all competitions.

Kongolo brings more experience and quality to Fulham's defence
Fulham have endured a nightmarish start to life back in the top-flight, losing all of their four opening fixtures in the Premier League so far. Scott Parker's side have scored just thrice while conceding as many as 11 goals in the process, thus clearly epitomising the need for some significant improvement at both ends of the pitch moving forward.

The Cottagers have found their backline shred to pieces more often than not, with the club's defensive woes reminiscent of their ignominious 2018-19 relegation campaign in the top-flight. Fulham conceded 81 goals back then and finished second-bottom, and they could suffer the same fate this time around if Parker doesn't manage to stop the rut.

Fulham roped in Joachim Andersen on loan from Lyon and Tosin Adarabioyo on a permanent deal from Manchester City in a bid to add more quality to central defence. And the acquisition of Terence Kongolo on domestic deadline day comes as yet another massive boost to the club's ailing backline.

The 26-year-old's loan spell at Craven Cottage last season came to a premature end due to an injury but he is back to full fitness now. Kongolo comes through the door as a quality defender with Premier League experience, while his versatility to slot into the left-back role could be an added asset as well.

Verdict

Fulham's decision to bring in Terence Kongolo even after concluding deals for Andersen and Adarabioyo is a clear indication that the management has been left frustrated to a great degree by the ineptness of the current stock of centre-backs.

Parker now has the opportunity to move away from the ageing legs of Tim Ream, Dennis Odoi, and Maxime Le Marchand and build a hungry new-look backline with Kongolo, Andersen, and Adarabioyo in his plans moving forward. Kongolo hasn't always been the most consistent defender but his quality certainly can't be called into question.

The Dutchman could well play a key role in Fulham's bid for survival if Parker manages to extract the best out of him by teaming him up with the right set of players at the back.



https://www.mediareferee.com/2020/10/17/well-done-parker-fulham-signing-this-26-year-old-championship-star-is-indeed-a-sensible-move/


WhiteJC

Why Fulham loaned out Knockaert so soon after his move

Many Fulham fans have expressed dismay over the loan deal that took Anthony Knockaert to Nottingham Forest on EFL deadline day.

The club only converted his loan from Brighton to a permanent contract just four months ago.

Why sign him permanently just to loan him out, was the gist of supporter gripes.

But Fulham's hands were tied by the nature of the deal which led to him being bought from Brighton.

A permanent transfer was triggered when the French winger made a number of appearances, understood to be 30.

He made 46 in all competitions during 2019/20.

Knockaert was seen as an important contributor to Whites successful bid back to the Premier League at the first attempt, but accepted his chances this term would be limited.

And with his first-team prospects at Fulham looking slim, he was allowed to join Forest.

Head coach Scott Parker already has 29 players vying for 25 Premier League spots.

Parker admits he has a "big challenge" on his hands with the disaffected players who won't get a Fulham squad number.

The Whites were hoping to loan or transfer another three or four players on deadline day.

Instead, they managed to offload just one – Knockaert's temporary switch – with Terence Kongolo arriving after a move from Huddersfield.

That leaves Parker with a headache.

At least four of his players will be out in the cold until January at the earliest.

Parker has to decide which four players from his squad of 29 to leave out in order to meet the requisite 25 allowed by the Premier League.

He said: "It's a big challenge. It's a very big squad and we tried to trim that squad down.

"Now, it's a job for me to manage individuals and team dynamics; managing that team cohesion gives us the best chance.

"There's going to be players who won't get into that squad. But I've faced that challenge before and it's up to me to make a decision as a squad up until January."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/the-truth-behind-knockaerts-loan-move-to-nottingham-forest

WhiteJC

Fulham's predicted starting XI vs Sheffield United

Predicting Fulham's starting XI in any of their games so far this season has been a tough task.

Scott Parker has been known to throw a few curveballs this season, whether that's been dropping Aleksandar Mitrovic for the opening game of the season, switching to a back five against Wolves or continuing to select Dennis Odoi after numerous defensive errors.

Fulham's squad looks a little different from the last time we saw them with the additions of Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Terence Kongolo, Tosin Adarabioyo and Joachim Andersen adding some much-needed reinforcement in key areas.

However, we aren't expecting many of those new signings to start, Andersen picked up a bad injury in training that will seemingly keep him out for some time, while Kongolo's signing announcement hinted that he still isn't 100% after picking up a problem in January.

We've had a go at predicting how Fulham will look against Wolves.


We expect Scott Parker to make three changes on Sunday.

The first interesting thing to note is that we expect the Whites to continue with the back five we saw against Wolves a fortnight ago, in order to counteract Chris Wilder's preferred five at the back formation.

The defence looks largely the same, but there is one change as Tosin Adarabioyo comes in for Maxime Le Marchand.

The exciting Antonee Robinson again starts at the back, but his centre-back berth in this side may be somewhat misleading as we expect him to join in the attacks and even act as more of a left-back at times when Joe Bryan gets further forward.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek will have to wait for his first start as we predict Tom Carney and Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa to continue in the midfield, while there are changes on the wings as Ademola Lookman and Aboubakar Kamara come in for Bobby Decordova-Reid and Ivan Cavaleiro after their lively cameos against Wolves.

There are no prizes for guessing who starts up front as Aleksandar Mitrovic again spearheads the attack.




https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-fc-news/fulham-team-news-preview-prediction-sheffield-united-tactics

WhiteJC

Boost for Sheffield United as Joachim Andersen ruled out for Fulham

While injuries seem to be playing their part at Bramall Lane lately, United fans will be pleased to know that this week's opponents, Fulham, are also having a dose of bad luck.

Having conceded goals left, right, and centre this season, Scott Parker used the final days of the transfer window to bring in some defensive reinforcements ready for the trip to up the M1.

However, in an unfortunate turn of events for the Cottagers, new signing, Joachim Andersen, will now miss the game with the Blades and be out for a few weeks at least.

Scott Parker confirmed (BBC), that Andersen had picked up an ankle injury and conceded he'll be missing for the 'foreseeable future', which includes this weekend's clash with United.

That could mean a first start for new signing and Blades-linked defender, Terence Kongolo, while former Sheffield Wednesday man Michael Hector may also play. Antonee Robinson could also start for Parker's team, after being heavily-linked with a move to Sheffield in the summer.

Both sides have lost all four games but this injury, as bad as it is for Andersen, will be something Chris Wilder will definitely be pleased about ahead of the tie.

United have to go for it

For all the talk of a poor start for United, the one thing we have done is defend pretty well, barring a few mistakes.

Fulham, on the other hand, have been poor at the back and looked lost at sea against the likes of Leeds, Arsenal, and Aston Villa. Wilder, then, will surely look to exploit that. It could mean Rhian Brewster is chucked straight into the mix, despite concerns over his fitness.

This is a must-win game for both sides but even more so for us Blades. Another loss would be a nightmare, especially with the difficult run of games to come afterwards.



https://www.sheffieldunited.news/match-preview/boost-for-sheffield-united-as-joachim-andersen-ruled-out-for-fulham/


WhiteJC

Sheffield United vs Fulham: 18/10/2020 – match preview and predicted starting XIs

Sheffield United vs Fulham

Date: 18/10/2020

K/O: 12:00

Venue: Bramall Lane

Referee: Andre Marriner

TV: Sky Sports Premier League

The Premier League returns this weekend after the first international break of the season. After a stellar lineup of matches scheduled for Saturday, Sunday kicks off with 19th taking on 20th, with newly-promoted Fulham taking a trip to Bramall Lane, where they come up against Chris Wilder's gritty Sheffield United side.

While Sheffield soared to phenomenal heights last season, they haven't picked up where they left off. Although they eventually finished 9th, by no means an easy feat for a newly promoted side to achieve, considering the resources they had and the football they played, several football fans around the world felt that Wilder deserved the Manager of the Season accolade for his job at the helm.

Fulham are no strangers to the league either, but they'd be hoping for a better outcome than last time, when they were promoted, only to go straight back down. Scott Parker though has overseen their bouncing back to the league after a single season in the Championship, and will be extremely keen to guide them to safety this time around.

Alexsander Mitrovic was the shining light for Fulham that season, and he has two goals in four games thus far. Against Sheffield, who have only scored the one goal in their campaign thus far, Scott Parker will be hoping that his Serbian talisman leads by example.

It was loanee Dean Henderson's job to keep the opposition out for Sheffield last season, and he did an absolutely remarkable job of it. So much so, that Manchester United have opted to keep him at the club for the season, likely with the idea of him featuring in their domestic cup ties. While his replacement, the €20.5m Aaron Ramsdale of Bournemouth does very much look like the real deal, it may take him a while to settle in.

On the back of some rest for his players, some time to think of perhaps a new game plan, and with home advantage against a newly promoted side, Sunday noon may be the perfect time for the Blades to get their first win on the board.

Team News

Sheffield United:

Oliver Burke is facing a late fitness test, to feature on Sunday. John Egan likewise is a touch-and-go scenario, after having to self-isolate following a positive COVID-19 test whilst on international duty. He did test negative, but the gaffer refused to comment with certainty on the situation, only saying that they'd be working with the authorities to assess the situation.

Lys Mousset continues to be a long-term miss for Sheffield, alongside Jack O'Connell and Simon Moore.

Fulham:

Mario Lemina has been training with the Fulham squad for a week and a half now, and looks set to feature for the London side over the weekend. Kenny Tete is presently working off a leg injury, and will be out for a few weeks. Harrison Reed too, will miss out, with Sunday's encounter coming "a game too soon" for the midfielder.

New signing Joachin Anderson will be another loss for them, having suffered an ankle injury in training, just a few days into his tenure as a Fulham player. Scott Parker confirmed that he'll be out "for the foreseeable future", suggesting that his debut may have to wait till at least mid-November.

Predicted Starting XIs

Sheffield (3-5-2): Ramsdale; Basham, Ampadu, Robinson; Baldock, Lundstram, Berge, Osborn, Stevens; Oliver McBurnie, Brewster

Fulham (4-2-3-1): Areola; Aina, Ream, Le Marchand, Robinson; Lemina, Zambo-Anguissa; Ivan Cavalerio, Cairney, Loftus-Cheek; Mitrovic

Prediction: Sheffield 1-1 Fulham

I believe this will be a tight encounter, but with the injuries on both sides, as well as the lack of form both teams are exhibiting right now, points might be shared with neither wanting to venture too far and risk too much



https://90maat.com/sheffield-united-vs-fulham-match-preview-and-predicted-starting-xis/

WhiteJC

Sheffield United vs Fulham: Prediction, team news, lineups, TV channel, live stream, kickoff time, h2h, odds

The Premier League's bottom two will meet at Bramall Lane today as Sheffield United host Fulham.

Both clubs are off to dismal starts to the season, losing each of their opening four games, and are already looking at a fight to stay in the top flight.

Fulham's defensive woes have cost them dear with 11 goals conceded, and Scott Parker will be hoping that some late additions in the transfer window can have an immediate impact.

The Blades, meanwhile, have found their woes to be at the other end of the pitch, with David McGoldrick's consolation effort against Arsenal the only League goal they have mustered so far this season.

Date, time and venue

Sheffield United vs Fulham is scheduled for a 12:00pm BST kick-off today on Sunday, October 18.

The match will be behind closed doors at Bramall Lane with no fans due to be present due to government guidelines regarding coronavirus.

How to watch

TV channel: The match will be shown live via pay-per-view on BT Sport Box Office at a cost of £14.95.

Team news

Chris Wilder could give a debut to Rhian Brewster following his move from Liverpool after Oliver Burke and David McGoldrick picked up knocks on international duty.

Joachim Andersen and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are among the new arrivals who could come straight into contention for Fulham.

Prediction: Sheffield United 2-0 Fulham

The international break might have come at just the right time for the Blades and Brewster's arrival should bring some much-needed cutting edge in front of goal.

Head to head (h2h) history and results

The two sides' movements up and down the divisions means they have not actually met in the top flight since the 2006/07 season. The last time they were in the same tier was during the 2017/18 Championship season, and Fulham won a 5-4 thriller.

Betting odds and tips

    Sheffield United to win: 6/5
    Fulham to win: Between 14/5 and 3/1
    Draw: 12/5
    Rhian Brewster to score: Between 5/2 and 13/5

Odds courtesy of Betfair Exchange. Click here to find out more.




https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united-vs-fulham-2020-premier-league-prediction-time-team-news-tv-channel-live-stream-a4571486.html

WhiteJC

Parker: Central role best for Loftus-Cheek

Scott Parker has no doubt where Ruben Loftus-Cheek will be most effective for Fulham – straight down the middle.

Loftus-Cheek, signed on loan from neighbours Chelsea, has previously played in a slightly wide position in a 4-3-3 formation.

But Parker has no intention of deploying him anywhere else but in the centre.

The consequence for the likes of Bobby Decordova-Reid and Tom Cairney mean both will be looking over their shoulders, with one if not both set to warm the bench in the near future.

Loftus-Cheek hopes he can rekindle the form which saw him included in England's 2018 World Cup squad, starting with a debut at Sheffield United on Sunday.

An Achilles injury struck just as he was finally enjoying a run in the Chelsea side.

Fulham head coach Parker believes he can now offer Loftus-Cheek a path back to the top – as long as he plays to his strengths.

"I don't see him as a wide player, Parker explained.

"I see him as a technical player with physical attributes, which is a dream for us, and someone who can affect this team by playing in the centre.

"He's settled in really well, and he's from around the corner. So as far them dynamics go, it's all good. He can live in the same house and that sort of thing.

"He has been here 10 days and he's been first class. Ruben's got huge potential, but has to be consistent and we can offer him the platform and Premier League football and push him to where he needs to be."

Meanwhile, Parker says he is "nervous" every time the club conduct a Covid test at Fulham.

He has experience in dealing with the pandemic – two of his players tested positive at the end of May.

He still fears the club's chances of top-flight success could partly hinge on the results of swabs rather than just performances on the pitch.

Is he holding his breath?

"Yeah – and for quite a long time," Parker said.

"You know if you get a couple of negative tests you lose key players, or myself, or some of my staff.

"It's the times we live in, but it still makes me nervous, because you don't know what's going to happen – and that (not knowing) is part of it".



https://www.westlondonsport.com/chelsea/fulham-boss-has-no-doubt-which-position-is-best-for-loftus-cheek


WhiteJC

Sheffield United vs Fulham live stream: how to watch the Premier League wherever you are in the world

How to watch a Sheffield United vs Fulham live stream, as two sides look to bounce back in the Premier League

Sheffield United vs Fulham live stream, BT Sport Box Office, Sunday 18 October, 12pm BST

Only three teams are yet to pick up a point so far this Premier League season, and two of them will meet at Bramall Lane in Sunday's early kick-off.

Wolves, Aston Villa, Leeds and Arsenal have all beaten Sheffield United at the start of the 2020/21 campaign, even though the Blades have only conceded six goals to date (that's one fewer than Liverpool in their recent trip to Villa Park.

Chis Wilder's side finally scored their first goal of the season against Arsenal before the international break, but David McGoldrick's strike was not enough to prevent his side leaving the Emirates Stadium empty-handed.

Sheffield United overachieved in finishing in the top half of the table last time out. Wilder is not in any danger of losing his job, but the Blades boss may start to feel the pressure if his team's winless streak continues this weekend.

No conclusions for the campaign as a whole should be made on the basis of four matches, but it's already clear that Fulham could face an uphill battle to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

Curiously, the Cottagers have faced the same four opponents as Sheffield United so far this season - and they too remain without a point.

Fulham did at least bolster their squad on transfer deadline day, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Joachim Anderson and Tosin Adarabioyo could make their debuts here.

Harrison Reed is expected to be fit and Mario Lemina could also make his return, but Kenny Tete looks set to miss out.

For Sheffield United, Oliver Burke and John Fleck will both be assessed for knocks that forced the duo to withdraw from the Scotland squad earlier this week.

John Egan, Jack O'Connell and Lys Mousset are definitely out, but McGoldrick is expected to be available for selection following an abductor strain.

Kick-off is at 12pm BST and the game is being shown on BT Sport Box Office in the UK. See below for watching details where you are.

WATCH THIS GAME Get a Now TV Sky Sports pass week here

SEE THE FULL SCHEDULE Premier League live streams: How to watch every game on this weekend

Use a VPN to watch a Sheffield United vs Fulham live stream from outside your country

If you're on holiday or just simply out of the country, your domestic on-demand services won't work – the broadcaster knows exactly where you are from your IP address. Your access to the game will be automatically blocked, which is annoying if you've paid a subscription fee and don't want to use an illegal, buffering stream that makes you miss another Jamie Vardy goal. And that's where we recommend ExpressVPN (more on which below).

All you need to do is get a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to get beyond such aggravations (assuming it complies with your broadcaster's T&Cs). A VPN creates a private connection between your device and the internet, meaning suppliers can't work out where you are and what you're doing. The info going to and from is entirely encrypted.

There are plenty of options out there, including:

FourFourTwo's brainy office mates TechRadar love its super speedy connections, trustworthy security and the fact it works with Android, Apple, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, PS4 and loads more. You also get a money-back guarantee, 24/7 support and it's currently available for a knockdown price. Go get it!

How to watch a Premier League live stream in the UK

Sky Sports and BT Sport are the two main players once again, but Amazon also have a slice of the pie in 2019/20.

If you don't want to commit to a monthly contract, then NOW TV are currently offering up their Sky Sports Monthly Pass for just £9.99 (usual price £16.99) – it'll get you access to all of their Premier League and Football League offerings, including this game. Hurry, though: this offer ends at 23:59 BST on September 30.

Find out more specific details on each of these offerings (and more below) with our handy guide
How to watch a Premier League live stream for US subscribers

NBC Sports and Telemundo are the Premier League rights holders (in English and Spanish respectively). The Premier League Pass will give you a few matches live to stream on-demand - all matches are free to watch the day after broadcast, though you'll need a TV sports package with a local provider to watch all games live - plus shows highlights, analysis and on-demand replays for $64.99. For a cheaper alternative, the Matchday Pass showcases 140 live games for $39.99.

Head back to our VPN advice so you can take advantage when you're out of the country.
How to watch a Premier League live stream for Canadian subscribers

DAZN subscribers can watch every single Premier League game in 2019/20 – and it gets better. After a one-month free trial, you'll only have to pay a rolling $20-a-month fee, or make it an annual subscription of $150.

Want in while you're out of Canada? Scroll back up and check out the VPN offers above.
How to watch a Premier League live stream for Australian subscribers

Optus Sport are offering every game of the Premier League season for just $14.99/month for non-subscribers, which you can get via your Fetch TV box and all of the other friendly streaming devices.

To take advantage while you're not Down Under, follow the VPN advice towards the top of this page.
How to watch a Premier League live stream for New Zealand subscribers

Spark Sport are serving up all 380 games – plus various highlights and magazine shows throughout the week – for $19.99 a month, after a one-month trial.

It's also available via web browsers, Apple/Android devices, Google Chromecast and some Samsung TVs; Apple TV and Smart TV compatibility should be coming later in the year.

Check out our VPN deals to watch when you're not in New Zealand.
How to watch a Premier League live stream for Malaysian subscribers

Astro has secured Premier League rights for three seasons from 2019/20, and have every game available for viewing.
How to watch a Premier League live stream for Singaporean subscribers

You can watch all matches live with Singtel's Sports Plus, with current non-contract deal from $49.90.

For tips on how to view when you're out of the country, scroll back up for our VPN offers.

OTHER GUIDES

Bundesliga live stream: how to watch Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund anywhere in the worldChampions League live stream best VPN: how to watch from anywhere in the worldBarcelona live stream: how to watch wherever you are in the worldReal Madrid live stream: how to watch anywhere in the world



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/sheffield-united-vs-fulham-live-stream-how-to-watch-the-premier-league-wherever-you-are-in-the-world

WhiteJC

Sheffield United aiming to avoid unwanted club record against Fulham

Sheffield United are looking to avoid some unwanted club history when they take on Fulham in Sunday's Premier League clash at Bramall Lane.

The Blades have carried their poor run of form from the tail end of last season into the 2020-21 campaign, seeing them lose seven top-flight games in a row.

Never before have United lost eight league matches on the spin, which they will be desperate to put right against lowly Fulham this afternoon.

Scott Parker's men have also lost their opening four league games since earning promotion - never before have they started a campaign with five successive losses.

Fulham's solitary victory in their past 23 Premier League away games was 1-0 at Bournemouth in April 2019, drawing two and losing 20 since then.

However, the Cottagers won 5-4 away and 3-0 at home in the most recent matches between the sides, both coming in the Championship four seasons ago.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/sheffield-united/news/sheffield-united-aiming-to-avoid-unwanted-club-record_418814.html