Friday Fulham Stuff - 15/01/21...

[WhiteJC]

Results

Thursday
Arsenal	0-0	Palace

[WhiteJC]

'A familiar story' - The national media's verdict on Tottenham's slip-up vs Fulham

A look at how the national media covered Tottenham's disappointing draw with relegation-threatened London rivals Fulham on Wednesday evening.

Tottenham suffered a disappointing setback on Wednesday when they dropped two points against Fulham.

Jose Mourinho's men looked set to take all three points after Harry Kane's first-half goal against the relegation-threatened Cottagers, but Ivan Cavaleiro ensured Scott Parker's men picked up what could be a key point for them.

The result means Spurs are six points behind leaders Manchester United with their game in hand now played and with just one win in six league games, there are now serious questions over their title credentials.

Mourinho's men will have to become more consistent if they want to catch up with the leading pack and a draw against struggling teams like Fulham is not going to help.

As ever, you can find our coverage of the Fulham draw here, but below we round up the national media's verdict of the result, starting with the Mirror.

The Mirror

"Scott Parker looked in no mood to apologise," read the Mirror's verdict.

"Not after Fulham made their point with a battling draw, a performance full of grit and defiance as Tottenham blew the chance to close the gap on the leading pack.

"It ended in frustration for Tottenham and Jose Mourinho who, for so long, looked destined to win on the back of a bitter pre-match row about fixture rescheduling.

"Harry Kane put Tottenham ahead with his 11th goal of the season but they clearly did not bank on Fulham's resolve as Ivan Cavaleiro's late leveller was no more than they deserved.

"Fulham certainly looked fired up by Mourinho's rant that the visitors would owe Tottenham an apology if they fielded a full-strength XI.

"And it would be foolish to write off Fulham on this evidence because they look a team ready and willing to defy the odds. Written off before the season started, they are still in with a fighting chance."

The Telegraph

"After the war of words, Fulham did their talking on the pitch," wrote Jason Burt in the Telegraph. "Scott Parker and Jose Mourinho had clashed in the build-up to this quickly – too quickly in Parker's view – rearranged fixture but it was Fulham who made their point with a thoroughly deserved point. They probably warranted even more.

"For Tottenham this was a familiar story as they failed to take themselves into the top four. Once again they went ahead before, yet again, sitting back and defending, inviting Fulham on as they have done other opponents (West Ham, Wolves etc) to their cost.

"They have dropped 10 points from winning positions. It is just so wasteful – is it also the best use of their strengths? – and must be infuriating for their fans.

"The initiative was surrendered by Mourinho and accepted by a side in the bottom three who were inspired once substitute Ademola Lookman came on.

"Mourinho had demanded an apology if Parker fielded his full-strength team and the Fulham manager can argue he did not do that until the winger arrived. What a difference he made while Dele Alli and Gareth Bale sat unused on the Spurs bench. Discuss."

The Sun

"Tottenham missed the chance to jump up to third in the Premier League after being held at home to Fulham," said the Sun match report.

"Jose Mourinho's men had appeared to be in cruise control after Harry Kane's diving header gave them a first-half lead.

"Alphonso Areola was kept busy in the Fulham goal throughout as Spurs pressed forward for a second.

"But the Cottagers stunned the hosts and snatched a crucial point as Cavaleiro rose highest to nod home Ademola Lookman's pinpoint cross.

"Tottenham started the hastily-rearranged game - described as 'scandalous' by Scott Parker - well, and deservedly took the lead as their constant pressure took its toll on Fulham.

"Kane eventually broke the deadlock after 25 minutes as he timed a diving header perfectly to convert Sergio Reguilon's teasing cross.

"Spurs pressed on to find a game-clinching second, with Son Heung-min even hitting the post after the break.

"But Fulham also looked as though they had a goal in them, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Kenny Tete both going close.

"And eventually 18th-placed Fulham snatched a goal as Cavaleiro leapt the highest to head home Lookman's tantalising cross with just 15 minutes to go."

Daily Mail

"When the talking stopped, Fulham started," the Daily Mail report read. "Fired up, perhaps, by their burning sense of injustice, they produced a spirited display and foiled Tottenham's plan to close in on the Premier League summit.

"Scott Parker was furious about the way this fixture was thrust upon him at short notice. Parker called it 'scandalous' ahead of the game, but he will be encouraged by the response from his team.

"They are deep in relegation trouble and they trailed from midway through the first half to a flying header from Harry Kane, but they refused to be dominated by their London rivals.

"They refused to accept defeat and poured forward until Ivan Cavaleiro climbed above Eric Dier to head in the equaliser, with 16 minutes to go, after a fabulous flash of skill and a cross by influential substitute Ademola Lookman.

"Fulham, without a win against Spurs for almost eight years, almost went on to snatch a victory. Hugo Lloris had to be alert to dash from his line to make the save and thwart Ruben Loftus Cheek. They settled for a point. Parker yelled in delight and clenched both fists at the final whistle."



https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/news/tottenham-national-media-verdict-fulham-19622147

[WhiteJC]

Scott Parker says £53k-a-week Fulham ace boasts 'unbelievable quality', was fantastic at Spurs

Fulham boss Scott Parker has waxed lyrical about Cottagers loanee Ademola Lookman following his impressive display away at Tottenham on Wednesday night.

The 23-year-old, on loan at Craven Cottage from RB Leipzig, is fast becoming essential to the West Londoners' hopes of survival in the Premier League.

A regular starter in recent weeks, Parker opted to name Lookman on the bench for the trip to Spurs, seemingly with the intention of bringing him on later in the game as the hosts' legs tired.

It proved an inspired decision, the £53,000-a-week ace making an immediate impact and providing a pinpoint cross for Ivan Cavaleiro to head home in the 74th minute for a share of the spoils.

Speaking after the game, Parker sang Lookman's praises and admitted he hoped to sign him permanently at the end of the season, though he didn't say whether they were pursuing it for certain.

"He's been fantastic for us," Parker told football.london.

"The boy has unbelievable quality, a special player really and he showed that when he comes on today. Get him in and around the box and he's difficult to play against.

"Of course, at this moment the main focus for Ade is to keep improving and getting better because for sure he's got loads of levels to go to.

"I've got nothing but fond words to say – he's dedicated to his craft and wants to improve and while you've got that drive and determination there's only one way you're going."

And about the prospect of a permanent move, Parker said: "We'll see at the end of the season."

TBR View:

Once again the impressive Lookman has proven a game-changer and Parker's decision to initially bench him against a strong Spurs side could've so easily backfired but instead was spot on as the attacker helped his side to a vital point.

The Cottagers revival is on, with five consecutive league draws putting them within touching distance of safety, and Lookman is bound to keep playing a big role in what hopefully turns out to be a season of top-flight survival.



https://tbrfootball.com/scott-parker-says-53k-a-week-fulham-ace-boasts-unbelievable-quality-was-fantastic-at-spurs/

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea team news: Reece James back in full training ahead Fulham trip

Reece James is pushing for a return for Chelsea against Fulham after this week taking part in full training.

The right-back has been out since suffering a hamstring strain in the Boxing Day defeat to Arsenal.

He was close to making his comeback against Morecambe in the FA Cup last weekend, but Frank Lampard and the club's medical staff believed it was too soon in his recovery.

The Chelsea manager will provide an update ahead of Saturday's game against Fulham, but James has been running without discomfort as the squad prepare for the trip to Craven Cottage.

James' injury coincided with arguably his worst performance of the season, when he was guilty of conceding a reckless penalty in the 3-1 defeat to Arsenal.

Lampard was furious with his players' application in that game. James was likely to be left out of the fixture against Aston Villa just 48 hours later as Lampard looked to manage the amount of playing time over the hectic Christmas schedule.

But his performance at the Emirates would not have helped his chances of keeping his place.

Lampard is hoping the 4-0 win against Morecambe will kick start Chelsea's season after an alarming run of four defeats in six games has seen them drop from top to ninth.

Fulham showed their threat when stunning Tottenham on Wednesday night - earning a 1-1 draw after going behind to a first half goal from Harry Kane.

But Lampard hopes a win will boost morale in his squad.

He said: "It will give us a bit of confidence, but I don't want to overstate that because of the nature of the game. We've had a period where we haven't had a good run, and we need to get better results. And the only way out for us is to work hard, and the lads worked hard this week in training."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/chelsea-fc-team-news-reece-james-injury-update-fulham-b894245.html

[WhiteJC]

'Running this game': Some Chelsea fans react to loanee's 'masterclass' last night

Chelsea loanee Ruben Loftus-Cheek marvelled in last night's Premier League encounter for Fulham against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, and some Blues fans couldn't help but laud the midfielder.

The Englishman registered 90 minutes in successive league matches this term. In doing so, he helped the Cottagers to a hard-fought point against their more-illustrious north London adversaries.

The feat saw Fulham earn a fifth consecutive draw in the competition, moving them within two points of safety, with two games in hand.

The Craven Cottage club are winless from their last six league games. But the point against a tough opponent, will give them confidence going into Saturday's fixture against the Blues.

Loftus-Cheek is certainly a talent on his day, but has struggled with injuries throughout his career, which has hampered his development.

The loan move certainly provides him with the opportunity to rebuild some confidence. And he seems to be relishing that chance, albeit at Chelsea's neighbours.

Loftus-Cheek lauded
According to Squawka, Loftus-Cheek was the Fulham player who had the most attempts on goal (five) and drew the most fouls (four) against Tottenham.

And one might argue that the added incentive for his stellar performance against the Lilywhites, may have had something to do with Loftus-Cheek's allegiances to the Blues.

Whatever the motive, a selection of Chelsea supporters on social media were delighted to see the 24-year-old making strides.

'Just needs some confidence'
Some fans saw the loanee's showing as an example of his undoubted quality.

And they claim that he just needs to continue to grow in confidence, for his true ability to return.



https://www.thechelseachronicle.com/news/running-this-game-some-chelsea-fans-react-to-loanees-masterclass-last-night/

[WhiteJC]

Cavaleiro says Fulham 'showed our quality'

Ivan Cavaleiro felt Fulham more than deserved their draw at Tottenham last night – with a strong second half performance that continued their recent revival under Scott Parker.

The Portuguese winger scored a magnificent equaliser with a majestic header after excellent approach play down the left wing by substitute Ademola Lookman. That capped off a splendid response to going behind to Jose Mourinho's men and the visitors might even have snatched a late winner. Cavaleiro felt Fulham's display was one of the most complete of their campaign to date, telling the club's official website afterwards:

I think we played very well. We showed our quality. We conceded a goal but the team reacted very well and, in the second half, we did our best. We focused, we fight and, fair play to us, because I think we played much better than Tottenham in the second half. We are building with another unbeaten run and we will focus on the next game against Chelsea.

We could see that we go further. We had spaces, we were playing very, very well. When you have the possession, when you have the ball, you have more confidence to get the chances. This was one of the best second halves we had this season. Like I said, this is where we build, we grow, keeping the same mentality because we have some important games coming ahead and just keep going.

Cavaleiro praised manager Parker for giving the side belief during his half-time team talk and his words were heeded during an adventurous second half showing from Fulham.

The gaffer said he was just watching one team playing football, in terms of possession and in terms of quality. Their game was more individually, play to Kane or Son, and he just gave us some motivation for the second half. I think we reacted very well.

The former Wolves winger said he was enjoying a new-found freedom as he leads the line in Fulham's reshaped system and admitted that his header was probably the best of his career to date.

Not really! Yesterday, I was training and working on my headers. Today, I was a little surprised, but I said 'This is my time and I have to do it.' I feel more freedom at the front – in terms of movement and getting the ball. I've played centre forward before and I'm used to it, so I'm ready. Wherever I have to play, I'll play.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/01/cavaleiro-says-fulham-showed-our-quality/

[WhiteJC]

Parker hopeful Fulham will bring in striker

Scott Parker remains confident Fulham can sign a striker during the January transfer window to build on his side's encouraging recent run of results.

The Whites remain in the bottom three despite Wednesday's impressive 1-1 draw at Spurs, but have struggled in front of goal this season, with Bobby Decordova-Reid the team's top scorer – with four.

Aleksandar Mitrovic, who scored 26 times in the side's promotion-winning season, has struggled this season in the top-flight and missed two gilt-edged chances in last Saturday's extra-time win over QPR in the FA Cup third round.

The Serbian striker did not feature against Tottenham and Parker acknowledged goals have been an issue for his side, despite some impressive approach play, after they chalked up a fifth successive draw thanks to makeshift striker Ivan Cavaleiro's 75th-minute header.

"It's an area we are looking at because we have one recognised striker," Parker said.

"Cavaleiro has done fantastic. He is everything that we are about he is real focal point and his goal was superb.

"But it's an area (we need to address), but at the same time I see a team that is growing and one that can cause teams problems.

"We have a group of players who have been around this structure for some time and if it doesn't happen then we will keep going."

Parker is also hopeful Ademola Lookman can make his loan signing from RB Leipzig a permanent agreement.

The former Charlton and Everton winger came off the bench and set up the equaliser in an impressive 20-minute cameo.

"The boy has got unbelievable quality. He is a special player," Parker said.

"Around the box he is difficult to play against but the main focus for Ade is to get better because he still has loads of levels to go to and I have nothing but fond words to say about him.

"We will see what will happens at the end of the season."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/parker-hopeful-of-striker-signing-and-lookman-deal

[WhiteJC]

Parker eyes forward additions

Scott Parker believes Fulham can add striking reinforcements to their squad during the January transfer window – and he hasn't given up hope on sealing a permanent deal for on-loan winger Ademola Lookman at the end of the season.

Ivan Cavaleiro's thumping header earned the Whites a creditable point at Tottenham last night, but Parker is still looking for more conventional options in attack to compliment Aleksandar Mitrovic. The Serbian striker missed Fulham's latest London derby having picked up a calf strain in the FA Cup win at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday and, whilst the Fulham boss is pleased with Cavaleiro's impact in an unfamiliar centre forward role, Parker is hopeful of bringing in another forward.

He told his press conference after the draw at Tottenham:

It's an area we are looking at because we have one recognised striker. Cavaleiro has done fantastic. He is everything that we are about he is real focal point and his goal was superb. But it's an area [we need to address], but at the same time I see a team that is growing and one that can cause teams problems. We have a group of players who have been around this structure for some time and if it doesn't happen then we will keep going.

Parker is also hopeful of reaching an agreement with RB Leipzig to sign Lookman, who came off the bench to great effect against Spurs last night, on a permanent basis after his excellent loan spell.

The boy has got unbelievable quality. He is a special player. Around the box he is difficult to play against but the main focus for Ade is to get better because he still has loads of levels to go to and I have nothing but fond words to say about him. We will see what will happens at the end of the season.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/01/parker-eyes-forward-additions/

[WhiteJC]

Frank Lampard confirms injury boost ahead of Chelsea's Premier League clash with Fulham

The Chelsea boss is set to welcome back Reece James to his matchday squad for Chelsea's trip donw the road to Craven Cottage

Frank Lampard has confirmed the return of Reece James to his squid ahead of Chelsea's west London derby with Fulham on Saturday.

The right back has been out of action for the last three Blues games with a combination of knee and hamstring issues but was pictured in training at Cobham on Wednesday.

The manager said at his pre-match press conference: "We're all good. N'Golo Kante is suspended but he's back in training tomorrow.

"So we're all good."

Chelsea will be without the suspended Kante for Saturday's game after he picked up a fifth booking of the season in the defeat to Manchester City. The midfielder is also struggling with a hamstring problem that may well have ruled him out of the game anyway had he not been banned.

As well as James returning to training, Andreas Christensen is also in contention for a return to the squad after his own knee injury, with Lampard also confirming the Danish defender is injury-free.

The Blues have won just one of their alst six games in the Premier League and have slid down the table from first to ninth as a result, three points behind Southampton in the table and level on points with Aston Villa who have played two games less than Chelsea.

Chelsea have had a less vongested fixture schedule than others over the last couple of weeks and that has given Lampard some much-needed time on the training ground with his players after a hectic start to the season.

He told reporters on Friday: "I know the rules of football. No matter what squad you have, you need time to work.

"One of the big pluses of last season was that we had that opportunity. We had a long pre-season and opportunities to work.

"These two weeks have given us a chance to focus on the basics of our game, how we want to play.



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/fixtures-results/chelsea-latest-injury-news-james-19625314

[WhiteJC]

Scott Parker believes Fulham's 'identity' at Tottenham proves they can survive

Harry Kane's early header put Spurs in front, but missed chances came back to cost them as Ivan Cavaleiro scored a 74th-minute leveller

Fulham boss Scott Parker believes his side's 1-1 draw at Tottenham shows they have enough to beat the Premier League drop.

The Cottagers used their sense of injustice at having to play the rearranged game at short notice as motivation to earn a deserved point in north London.

Harry Kane's early header put Spurs in front, but missed chances came back to cost them as Ivan Cavaleiro's 74th-minute leveller helped Fulham to a fifth successive Premier League draw.

That unbeaten run has coincided with a change of system as they have become more solid and Parker reckons the signs of being able to survive are positive.

"I think we can, I see a team growing," he said. "From the start of the season until now - a team that are relentless in their work everyday.

"Players that are engaged, that want to learn and be successful and with that spirit and hunger to get better you always have a chance.

"I think now, first and foremost a desire, we're going to need that, but also show your quality and we had a real identity about us at Spurs."

Cavaleiro was playing as a makeshift striker with Aleksandar Mitrovic out injured, but showed great prowess to power home Ademola Lookman's shot.

Parker is open to strengthening his attacking options in the January transfer window.

"It's an area we're looking at, we've got one recognised striker in Mitrovic," he said. "Cavaleiro has done fantastic to be honest with you.

"Everything we're about, he's a real focal point in that, his goal was superb. It's an area but at the same time I see a team that is growing and can cause many teams problems.

"A group of players that have been in around the structure for some time and that is where it is. If it isn't to happen, we'll keep going."

PA



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham/tottenham-result-scott-parker-b1787291.html

[WhiteJC]

Fulham duo ruled out of Chelsea game

Fulham will be without Mario Lemina, Tom Cairney and possibly Aleksandar Mitrovic when they face Chelsea on Saturday.

Cairney has a "slight issue with his knee", according to Scott Parker, while Mitrovic is touch-and-go.

"He (Mitrovic) trained lightly today (Thursday) and we need to see where we are with him over the next 24 hours," Whites boss Parker said.

Lemina is recovering from illness, while the rest of Parker's troops have to saddle up for a second derby clash in four days following the fine 1-1 draw at Tottenham.

Apart from picking a team that can also gain something at Stamford Bridge, the head coach admitted he's doing his best to adhere to Premier League protocol over goal celebrations.

There were plenty of hugs and high-fives when Ivan Cavaleiro netted to give Whites a share of the spoils at Spurs.

Parker said: "There are going to be a lot of hiccups along the way. It's a habit learned by every young child from when they first kicked a football.

"You're constantly having to second think (about protocols) and we constantly relay the message, but it's going to take a little bit of time."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/chelsea/football-wls-fulham-duo-ruled-out-of-chelsea-game-and-mitrovic-is-being-assessed

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea: Three things to look for against Fulham as Blues return to action

Chelsea returns to Premier League action with a derby against old rivals and neighbors Fulham. What should fans look for in this match?

After a welcome break for the FA Cup, Chelsea is back in action this Saturday as they seek their first league victory since Christmas as they make the short trip down Fulham Road to take on their local neighbors, Fulham. With a 4-0 win over Morecambe last weekend in the cup, the Blues will hope to get their season back on track against Fulham who haven't lost in their last six. But what many would have expected to be a routine win at the beginning of the season is now more questionable and there's plenty to look out for in this West London derby.

1. Survival of the fittest
Chelsea has played four times since Christmas. A solitary point and a place in the FA Cup fourth round is all they have to show for it. Meanwhile, their hosts this Saturday have had fixtures against Tottenham and Burnley postponed, the latter of which was rescheduled for this past week and saw the Whites salvage a 1-1 draw. Scott Parker was not afraid at showing his displeasure with the short-notice ahead of the rescheduled tie which he labelled "scandalous".

The West London derby was delayed by a day as a result of the short-notice rescheduling of the Tottenham tie. Now taking place on Saturday evening with Fulham having played a midweek fixture and having had a COVID-enforced winter break, Parkers men are sure to be showing signs of fatigue.

Fulham's out-of-form talisman Aleksandr Mitrovic has been in trouble for breaching COVID regulations while Ademola Lookman began the Spurs clash on the bench. So, the Whites may be lacking firepower and Frank Lampard should look to take advantage.

2. The Thames Barrier
Fulham haven't lost in over a month and have conceded just once from open play since their last defeat: Harry Kane's header opening the scoring this past week. The White's backline is a distant cry from that which started the season. Gone are the likes of Tim Ream and playoff hero Joe Bryan. In their place came Antonee Robinson and Joachim Andersen, who has taken the armband since his loan move from Lyon.

For Chelsea, their new stars are still yet to truly get off the mark and much of the Blues' recent scoring has come through heroes of the past, a la Tammy Abraham and Olivier Giroud. Last week that finally changed as Timo Werner and Kai Havertz both added to their tallies. Unfortunately, their goals came against Morecambe and some may feel they should've done more against a team three divisions below.

Tottenham and Liverpool have the league's top two goal differences and boast the top three scorers between them yet both struggled to break down the Cottagers defense. If Chelsea are to get anything from this match, they will need whichever attackers Lampard picks to be at their best.

3. Manager Matchup
I'm sure that throughout Saturday's commentary there will be numerous parallels drawn between the two men in the dugouts. This is after all, the first time they have faced off as managers. Both are former club legends of their respective teams. Both are relatively new to the managerial world having got their first taste of top-flight experience in 2019. And both are former England internationals who have captained the Three-Lions at least once.

The similarities don't end there. At 42 and 40 respectively, Lampard and Parker are two of the youngest managers in the Premier League with only the 38-year-old Mikel Arteta besting them. Both have had relatively successful starts to their brief managerial careers. Lampard almost took Derby to the Premier League before leading Chelsea to a top-four finish in spite of a transfer ban. Parker meanwhile was able to bring Fulham back up on the first time of asking, having been unable to save them from the drop in 2019.

Despite this, there remain concerns around their tactics which are, some might say, uninspired. I have no doubt that the two Englishmen will have long, and hopefully successful careers, and Saturdays encounter is sure to be the first of many but who will claim the bragging rights is anyone's guess.



https://theprideoflondon.com/2021/01/14/chelsea-three-things-look-fulham-blues-return-action/

[WhiteJC]

Every word Scott Parker said on 'exceptional' star, Frank Lampard and Aleksandar Mitrovic injury

The Fulham boss previewed his side's clash with Chelsea

Will the rescheduling of Spurs, create an issue for the Chelsea clash?

It's always going to be a concern. It's going to be a concern for large parts of the season, not just for us, for a lot of teams.

Of course, when you're a team like us the squad depth is probably not as big as some others and maybe that will be the case.

As I said last night, it was a big ask for the players and it's going to be another big ask come Saturday which is another quick turnaround but one which we're preapred for, physically we're prepared for, we'll give it another go and show our quality hopefully again.

Only thing that went wrong, the goal celebration? Realistic to stop this?

It's definitely something we all need to understand. Everyone is trying to address it. These are habits from every young child that plays football, one thing you want to do is score a goal and what you're used to doing is celebrating. A new rule has just come in, literally just now, that players are reminded that can't take place and we understand the vision of that, rightly so.

I suppose it is going to take a little bit of time on that because of the raw emotion and the habit, like I said, but constantly that message is being relayed to the players. That message will keep being reinforced and the Premier League are doing that as well.

No denying there are going to be hiccoughs along the way because you're taking something out of some players but we need to address it but we'll keep trying to do that.

Did Jose get too close to you last night?

Again, it is difficult. It's a tough one. I think we're all responsible, we all understand what needs to happen. We're trying our hardest we're in a working environment. Every manager I probably speak for here, every day you come in and constantly second guessing things. I realise the spotlight is on us and the seriousness of that the country faces and we'll keep trying to do it the right way.

What is the latest on Aleksandar Mitrovic, Mario Lemina and Tom Cairney?

Mitrovic is possible to be there for the weekend. Trained today lightly, we'll see how he pulls through tomorrow. The other two are just not available at the moment. We'll see where we are with them in the coming days. Tom has a slight issue with his knee.

Going to play Chelsea, unbeaten in five, confident of doing something against them?

I felt last night we played exceptionally well. I thought the quality we have shown in the last few games breeds a lot of confidence to go unbeaten in this division for a team like us for a sustatined period of time against very good opposition shows how far we've came.

No denying the weekend is another massive task for us and a big challenge. Frank and Chelsea and the quality the possess they can hurt you and it's a tough game for us. We'll need to bring the same quality and passion to cause them an upset.

Is Ruben Loftus-Cheek showing Chelsea what they're missing?

I thought he was exceptional last night, I thought he was top. A player we all understand the quality he has. He's not played a lot of football for some time and last night and the last few weeks seeing a player with not just massive potential, that word has surrounded Ruben for some time, I think we're seeing every bit of a top player and a Chelsea player. We're pleased to have him amongst us and hopefully he'll keep performing and getting better.

What has changed over the last six games or so to turn things around?

I think we've changed tactically a little bit, our shape has changed. We've worked tirelessly throughout the season, we've come up with something and drilled that and the players were comfortable in it. It's been working and time for us.

This team came fourth in the Championship, had a really quick turnaround to get into the Premier League, brought a lot of players in and players last year as well with the first time playing in the Premier League.

There isn't a magic wand. It's hard work, it's drilling the team, it's a group of players wanting to work tirelessly hard to get better. You're seeing the rewards of that.

Of course the quality and the way we played, we're more dynamic, we look a real threat. In every aspect of our game we've improved. Overall as a team we tick a lot of boxes. I still believe we can improve a lot more and we need to maintain that and push on.

Does that give you satisfaction?

Satisfaction comes from results, satisfaction comes from seeing my team impress and do well. Of course from that element there's a lot of satisfaction. I saw where the team were, where we need to improve, I see where we need to develop, where our flaws were and I'm glad I've got good players who see that as well.

Sometimes it's easy to rip the page up and start again, that wasn't the case and all of us here have tried to build something stuck with what we believed in and the players have took on board that.

Chelsea favourites but give your momentum and their struggles - is it a good time to play them?

It's a good time for us to play anyone. I feel like we're in a good place, I feel like confidence is high in the squad. I feel like there's a group of players here starting to feel their worth in the division really. A tough game like you said against an exceptionally tough team in Chelsea. But in saying that where in a place where on Saturday we'll give them a game and hopefully try and get something out of it. We approach every game like that.

Frank has said Chelsea are in a tough place - weaknesses you can exploit?

Of course, yeah. Like anything, same for Spurs a little bit, like all teams, we'll hit that patch at some point, we hit it early on. We'll come across that the way the league is this year. What I do know is, if we approach this game like we have and show our quality we'll give everyone a good run and a good game.

Closing the gap on Brighton with games in hand, out of it in a couple of weeks time?

I didn't take much notice of the stuff said at the start and I'm probably not now. I don't take to much focus in the league table. For me it's about impression, it's about developing a team here that I know can win football matches and I know if we can do that we'll be ok. What will drown us is the 'what if' thinking, 'where are we sitting in the league', we need to eradicate all that. Just a clear focus on getting better individually and as a team and if that's our main focus, I think we'll be on the right path.

We'll see at the end of the season, five games to go, three games to go, 10 games to go - whenever that time may be, I'll start looking. between now and then, lets just have this focus to get better.

Only three players in side for Spurs were here last season. How have you created the team spirit with all the protocols?

I think that just comes with the environment set from last year and the culture which is set at a football club makes it easy when new players come in to see if they quickly understand and feel very comfortable in the surroundings and they can pick up exactly where it is.

For me the most important thing at a football club and the main driver is a culture because that gives you your core foundations. That gives you a chance to build good teams.

As much as it's been difficult because you can't interact as closely as you want. Team meetings are two or three meetings with groups of seven players. That's been difficult but you fall back on things which aren't going change. Players here last year understand what is expected of them, them helping new players come in and relaying that message to them to fit into the group.

18th but good run of results mean the atmosphere is better than you'd expect?

We are where we are this year. We'll be in and around this position for the majority of the year. We said that before a ball was kicked. We need to be comfortable being in and around where we are and not let that affect our mindset or our ability to want to improve. I've been involved in relegation seasons and you get to a point where you're 15 games in and you don't want to look at a league table and you don't want that thought of 'what if we lose that game'.

We need to stay singleminded and single focused really. It;s a good buzz about the place and that breeds confidence. We need to maintain that really.

You played alongside Frank Lampard. Did you see anything in him then that made you believe he would go on to be a Premier League manager?

Work ethic and a determination. Massive respect for Frank as a footballer and it was a privilege to play with him. I've probably more respect for a guy that had unbelievable work ethic and drove every day in his craft and a singlemindedness that got him the career he had.

Them foundations and them abilities - I always knew if it was a thing he wanted to go into that he would be successful because them values you've got a chance.

It doesn't surprise me he goes to Derby and does well, then he gets the Chelsea job under tight restrictions last year. The same this year. It doesn't surprise me..



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/fulham-vs-chelsea-aleksandar-mitrovic-19626565

[WhiteJC]

Pre-Chelsea Press Conference

Scott Parker believes Fulham are in good shape ahead of Saturday's SW6 derby.

Our midweek draw at Tottenham Hotspur made it five Premier League games without defeat for the Whites, which Parker believes demonstrates the progress his side have made.

"To go unbeaten in this division, for a team like us, over a sustained period of time now against some very good opposition, shows how far we've come," he stated.

"We've changed tactically a little bit, our shape has changed a little bit. We've worked tirelessly throughout the season, come up with something and drilled that into the players so they're comfortable with it.

"But we've needed time as well. This team came fourth last year in the Championship, had a really, really quick turnaround coming into the Premier League.

"We got a lot of players in, there's players we had here last year as well who're playing for the first time in the Premier League.

"There isn't a magic wand, it's hard work on the training field, it's drilling the team, it's getting messages across to a group of players who are working tirelessly hard to improve and get better. And you're probably seeing the rewards of that.

"Ultimately, as much hard work as the players are putting in, it's time [you need]. Of course, the quality and the way we play has been more dynamic, I think we look a real threat in every aspect of our game.

"Overall, as a team I think we tick a lot of boxes, and that's pleasing. There's still loads of levels to go, there's still a lot more we can improve, and we need to maintain that and keep pushing on."

Chelsea make the short trip to Craven Cottage having lost four of their last six Premier League games.

But when asked if it was a good time to be playing our local rivals, Parker explained that he would back his charges against any side right now.

"It's a good time for us to be playing any team," he said. "I feel we're in a good place, I feel like confidence is high in the squad, I feel like there's a group of players here who are starting to feel their worth in this division.

"It's a tough game against an exceptionally good team in Chelsea, a famous team, but in saying that, we're in a good place.

"Saturday we'll go and give them a game and hopefully get something out of it. We approach every game like that, no matter what the challenge, we'll always try and put our stamp on the game.

"There's no denying that the weekend's another massive, massive task for us and a big challenge, because Frank and Chelsea, with the quality they possess, they can hurt you.

"It's a tough game for us so we'll need to bring the same qualities, bring the same passion and everything else that comes with that."

Frank Lampard has said in the build-up to the game that he always thought that his former Chelsea and England teammate could go into coaching upon retirement – a sentiment mirrored by Parker.

"I've got massive respect for Frank as a footballer and the player he was. I was privileged enough to play with him, a guy who had an unbelievable work ethic, drove every day in terms of his craft and wanting to get better.

"He had a single-mindedness about him that got him the career he had. With those foundations and that ability, I always knew that if management was something he wanted to go into, then he would be successful.

"With those values, you've always got a chance, so it doesn't surprise me that he goes to Derby and he does well.

"He then gets the Chelsea job under some restrictions last year in terms of what they had to go through, and he's done an incredible job. It doesn't surprise me whatsoever."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/january/Pre-Chelsea-Press-Conference/

[WhiteJC]

Scott Parker lavishes praise on Frank Lampard

Fulham manager Scott Parker praised Chelsea boss Frank Lampard's work ethic and said he was not surprised his former team-mate took the decision to move into management.

During his career, Parker briefly played alongside Lampard at Chelsea and again with the England national team.

Parker says even then he could see a lot of attributes which would help Lampard make his mark in management.

"(He had a) work ethic and a determination. (I have) massive respect for Frank as a footballer and the player he was," Parker said.

"I was privileged enough to play with him but I've probably got more respect for a guy that had an unbelievable work ethic.

"He drove (himself) everyday in terms of his craft and wanting to get better and had a single-mindedness about him that got him the career he got.

"With those foundations and those abilities, I always knew that if that was a thing he wanted to go into in terms of management then he'd be successful because with those values you've always got a chance.

"So it doesn't surprise me that he's gone to Derby and does well and then gets the Chelsea job under tight restrictions last year in terms of what they had to go through and he did an incredible job with them. And the same this year really."

Fulham have been boosted ahead of their clash with Chelsea by an impressive unbeaten run which stretches back to December 5, during which time they have held Liverpool, Southampton and Tottenham to draws.

Despite being only given 36 hours notice that their game against Spurs on Wednesday would be played, Parker's men managed to come from behind to secure a hard-fought point and the manager wants his side to show the same quality against local rivals Chelsea on Saturday.

"We played exceptionally well, I said that under tough circumstances from our point of view but I thought in terms of the quality we showed and the quality we've shown over the last few games shows confidence," the Fulham manager said.

"To go unbeaten in this division for a team like us over a sustained period of time now against some very good opposition that shows how far we've come.

"No denying the weekend is another massive massive task for us and a big, big challenge because Frank and Chelsea and the quality they possess can hurt you and it's a tough game for us.

"So we'll need to bring the same quality and we'll need to bring the same passion and everything else that comes with that but our qualities as well to cause them an upset and some problems."




https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/chelsea/news/scott-parker-lavishes-praise-on-frank-lampard_430513.html

[WhiteJC]

Is Areola our most important summer signing?
Our recent run might not have happened if it wasn't for our man between the sticks, as Rhys explains.

Alphonse Areola's understated move to Fulham in September is proving to be one of the most intelligent acquisitions of the summer transfer window. And he could be our most important this summer, too.

Joining on a season-long loan from PSG, many were understandably troubled about the likelihood of Marek Rodak losing the spot he made his own the previous season.

The Slovakia international had proven to be more than a match for the experience of Marcus Bettinelli, going on to keep 14 clean sheets across 33 Championship outings despite spending the first 12 fixtures on the bench.

Although Parker started the 24-year-old in the opening day defeat against Arsenal, it seemed rather unlikely that Areola would have agreed to swap a place on the bench at Le Parc des Princes for Craven Cottage.

Parisian Pedigree
In truth, the 27-year-old played a important role in both Ligue 1 title winning seasons of 2017/18 and 2018/19, making a combined 55 league appearances to add to his medal from 2012/13.

Having been replaced by Keylor Navas and sent out on loan to Real Madrid, Areola's trophy cabinet grew to what could be the most impressive of any player to ever play for our club.

The aforementioned titles in France are accompanied by seven cups from his native country, as well as La Liga glory in 2019/20. Not forgetting the 2018 World Cup.

Some of those who aren't familiar with Fulham's charm might have questioned why he would agree to the move, but his wife Marrion let slip in the summer that they had their eyes on London for a while.

She said: "A few years ago, our dream was to have our home in London. Our dream has come true."

Organised with an option
In what has become the norm with many of our recent loan signings, taking a glance back at the official club statement following a string of fine performance has not disappointed.

"The goalkeeper will remain at Craven Cottage for the duration of the 2020/21 season, with Fulham holding an option to make the move permanent."

Those magic words are music to the ears of those who have grown to love the acrobatic stopper, who will no doubt be signed up a on permanent deal when the opportunity arises.

Stops, saves and stats
Before any move is struck the numbers will have to be crunched by the powers that be in west London, and should Areola continue in the same form the figures will not disappoint the transfer gurus.

Across his 15 Premier League appearances for Fulham, Areola has conceded 21 goals and kept three clean sheets.

His 59 saves and 14 high claims have him fifth in the overall rankings, with his 11 punches coming in third.

Areola is kept rather busy with an average of 3.93 saves per match, making his 73.75 save percentage all the more impressive.

What stats don't tell you is the importance and quality of those saves, with Heung-Min Son spectacularly kept at bay twice on Wednesday, as was James Ward-Prowse on Boxing Day among many others.

I'll leave you with the satisfying comments of an aggrieved Jose Mourinho, who might be hoping that his side won't have to try and beat our new hero anytime soon.

"In the first half, Alphonse Areola made some impossible saves, couple of others in a second, too."



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2021-01-14-is-areola-our-most-important-summer-signing/

[WhiteJC]

Parker feels Fulham are growing in confidence

Scott Parker has urged his players to approach Saturday's SW6 derby against Chelsea with real confidence befitting their six-match unbeaten run.

The Whites battled back impressively to grab a precious point at Tottenham last night, closing to within two points of seventeenth-placed Brighton and Hove Albion, courtesy of a terrific header from Ivan Cavaleiro. Parker told his pre-match press conference that he feels the belief growing amongst his squad growing as a result of their excellent recent run of results.

To go unbeaten in this division, for a team like us, over a sustained period of time now against some very good opposition, shows how far we've come. We've changed tactically a little bit, our shape has changed a little bit. We've worked tirelessly throughout the season, come up with something and drilled that into the players so they're comfortable with it.

But we've needed time as well. This team came fourth last year in the Championship, had a really, really quick turnaround coming into the Premier League. We got a lot of players in, there's players we had here last year as well who're playing for the first time in the Premier League.

There isn't a magic wand, it's hard work on the training field, it's drilling the team, it's getting messages across to a group of players who are working tirelessly hard to improve and get better. And you're probably seeing the rewards of that. Ultimately, as much hard work as the players are putting in, it's time. Of course, the quality and the way we play has been more dynamic, I think we look a real threat in every aspect of our game.

Overall, as a team I think we tick a lot of boxes, and that's pleasing. There's still loads of levels to go, there's still a lot more we can improve, and we need to maintain that and keep pushing on.

When asked if it was a good time to be coming up against Frank Lampard and Chelsea, Parker instead reiterated the growing levels of confidence within his own ranks.

It's a good time for us to be playing any team. I feel we're in a good place, I feel like confidence is high in the squad, I feel like there's a group of players here who are starting to feel their worth in this division. t's a tough game against an exceptionally good team in Chelsea, a famous team, but in saying that, we're in a good place.

Saturday we'll go and give them a game and hopefully get something out of it. We approach every game like that, no matter what the challenge, we'll always try and put our stamp on the game. There's no denying that the weekend's another massive, massive task for us and a big challenge, because Frank and Chelsea, with the quality they possess, they can hurt you. It's a tough game for us so we'll need to bring the same qualities, bring the same passion and everything else that comes with that.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/01/parker-feels-fulham-are-growing-in-confidence/

[WhiteJC]

Craven Cottage cup tie to be played on the Sunday

Burnley's FA Cup 4th round tie against Fulham at Craven Cottage will be played on Sunday, 24th January with coverage via BT Sport.

Kick off will be at 2:30 p.m. with the game being shown on BT Sport 2 Extra which is their red button service.



https://www.uptheclarets.com/craven-cottage-cup-tie-to-be-played-on-the-sunday

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea's trip to Fulham may not offer the reprieve Frank Lampard is looking for

'Phew.'

Those Chelsea supporters who chose not to spend their Sunday afternoon watching their team take on League Two opposition breathed a collective sigh of relief upon seeing Callum Hudson-Odoi, Kai Havertz and Timo Werner among the goals and assists in an emphatic victory.

But while the 4-0 scoreline against Morecambe suggests a professional, efficient day's work from an unexpectedly strong Blues lineup, it was by no means easy viewing. In fact, all the signs are that a wavering Chelsea will continue to toil against Fulham on Saturday.

Frank Lampard's side looked every bit a struggling-Premier-League-team-forcing-a-win-against-lower-league-opposition-in-the-cup, perhaps justifiably willing the ball into the back of the net rather than playing with any real verve or freedom until the game was already beyond the minnows - or Shrimps in this case.

That subconscious approach meant Chelsea's reinvention as a crossing side - intended or otherwise - was laid bare, with Hakim Ziyech launching approx. 156 of his trademark left-foot whips into the Morecambe box to varying degrees of success, while Mason Mount and even Toni Rüdiger resorted to long-range efforts even before the 20-minute mark, with the former eventually opening the scoring with one of them.

Despite clearly having the players with the ability to play through the low block of a League Two side, Frank Lampard's charges seemed to very quickly abandon any attempt to dissect Morecambe with the ball on the deck and reverted to type with their recent over-reliance on crossing.

Obviously it worked, as well it might against a play-off chasing fourth-tier side, and while the quality of the deliveries was excellent, it is hard to get too excited about the goals and all-round display, including those of Werner and Havertz.

In fairness to the latter, he used the ball effectively, showed composure to assist his compatriot with a cushioned header and finished well with his own towering leap late on, but even against lower-league opposition the cocky swagger, tricks and flicks that made him such an exciting acquisition were still lacking from his game as he continues to work his way back to his peak following a nasty bout of COVID-19.

Werner was more subdued, despite bringing his 13-game goal drought to an end. This was not the strike to make you believe he is on the cusp of rediscovering his lethal confidence in front of goal; while Chelsea supporters would have hoped for a slaloming run and finish, or an emphatic blast from in or around the penalty area, the reality was a tap-in from all of two yards out - the result of one of those Ziyech whips and the aforementioned tee-up from Havertz.

Back-to-back fixtures against Morecambe and Fulham were supposed to offer Lampard a reprieve from a stinking run of one win in seven over the festive period, but the strangely unconvincing performance against Morecambe means the short trip across west London remains a daunting prospect for supporters.

Having looked like absolute no-hopers in the opening weeks of the season Fulham have found some rhythm and steel, drawing five league games on the bounce including creditable points against Liverpool, Southampton, Tottenham, and, despite playing 30 minutes with ten men against them, Newcastle.

Four points from safety, the Cottagers have every chance of survival - especially with two relegation places already reserved for Sheffield United and West Brom.

Springing their most recent surprise at Spurs on Wednesday night, Scott Parker arguably deserved to take all three points against his former manager, and his side will be buoyed by their impressive second half ahead of his ex-teammate's visit for Saturday's late kick off.

With a fully fit squad at his disposal - aside from the suspended N'Golo Kanté - Lampard must get his team selection right. The recent insistence on crossing football and Olivier Giroud's form (three in four league games) perhaps call for the Frenchman to start, with Werner's tap-in last weekend possibly a false dawn with another Premier League low block looming.

Anything less than a win will leave the head coach submerged in hot water, but a stepping-stone victory piggybacking on the momentum of the FA Cup win could set Chelsea up nicely for upcoming tougher tests against Leicester and Wolves.



https://www.90min.com/posts/chelsea-fulham-no-reprieve-frank-lampard-opinion

[WhiteJC]

Cairney and Lemina to miss derby

Fulham will be without captain Tom Cairney and midfielder Mario Lemina for Saturday night's SW6 derby against Chelsea.

Scott Parker revealed the pair are definitely out of contention to face Frank Lampard's side, whilst Aleksandar Mitrovic is likely to have a late fitness test to see if he has recovered sufficiently from the calf strain that he picked up during Saturday's extra time win at QPR in the FA Cup.

The Fulham boss told his pre-match press conference this afternoon that Cairney 'has a slight knee issue' that is being managed by the club's medical staff. The 29 year-old hasn't featured since starting the 1-1 draw against Newcastle on December 19th and has a history of troublesome knee injuries.

Lemina, who has made eleven appearances this season and had begun to forge a promising partnership with Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa in central midfield, is still recovering from coronavirus and Saturday night's fixture will come too soon for him to play any part. Parker said that Fulham will leave a decision on Mitrovic's fitness until later in the week after he completed some light training at Motspur Park earlier today:

"Mitrovic is possible to be there for the weekend. Trained today lightly, we'll see how he pulls through tomorrow."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/01/cairney-and-lemina-to-miss-derby/