Friday Fulham Stuff - 19/03/21...

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Fulham fans debate relegation battle with Newcastle United – Agree drastic change needed

Fulham fans have been discussing the relegation battle, as Newcastle United are now slight favourites to go down, just ahead of the Cottagers.

Their team has lost just five of their last eighteen Premier League matches but scoring only 11 goals in these 18 games, means they have ended up with 10 draws and only three wins.

Fulham fans now feeling that a change is drastically needed...

With Ruben Loftus-Cheek having scored only once in 23 PL appearances and John Maja scoring in only one game so far, the call has gone out.

Is it time for Aleksandar Mitrovic to save Fulham and send Newcastle United down?

Not picked for the first game of the season, Mitro started the next seven, scoring twice in his first start in a 4-3 loss at Leeds.

He hasn't scored again and indeed has only started three PL matches since those opening seven ended in November.

A combination of loss of form, injury, lack of fitness and Covid has made Scott Parker look elsewhere, so far...

Fulham fans calling for Mitro to return, starting against Leeds tomorrow night.

Fulham fans comment via their Fulham Web message board:

'Anyone else think Mitrovic is going to play a key role in the run in and will score a few crucial goals that will save us.'

'Can Parker please give Mitro the next 9-10 games.

What Ruben has done with all his minutes, in the attacking third, is really poor. No goals, no assists, no threat. Mitro's tally two years ago, playing alongside lesser players, was solid. He can score in this league. He can give us a threat on set pieces. We actually had a decent number of corners vs Man City. And how much will we truly lose defensively playing Mitro vs Maja? Maja has two tap ins for us. Mitro could've scored that rebound from Reed's shot just as easily. Parker continues to miss this one trick. The lineup vs Man City was brilliant for 45 minutes, but zero goal threat. To expect a clean sheet... not happening. Bringing Mitro in at halftime at least would help us retain possession. Give Man City something different to contend with. Sadly, I don't see Mitro or TC getting much chance during this last push. They remain our best attacking and creative players, willing passers, finishers from beyond the penalty area. And we need goals.'

'I agree, RLC is a glorified show pony, more content with his flicks and tricks. As a big unit, he offers nothing in defending or attacking either along the ground or in the air. He spends more time on his back side hoping for free kicks. He makes Cavaleiro look World class in comparison and that's saying something.'

'I keep hoping against hope that every time RLC starts a game he will suddenly become fit and interested, and will suddenly spark into life, but once the game starts, he offers absolutely nothing to our cause. I think that Scott, who has won me round at the moment, can see something in RLC that no one else I know can. Like most of us, I was prepared to give him time to make a full recovery, as after all, he had looked like a very talented England International,but that time is now long gone, and the sooner he returns to Chelsea the better for us all.'

'Look at it logicaly,Mitro had lost form so we took in Maja,yet both were on the bench.We effectivly played with no forwards.City must have thought it was xmas.No need to defend as the likely hood of us seriously causing their defense any problems was remote.It took them 45 mins to work it out ,and we know what the result was.why get in a forward to cover Mitro,if you dont play either.'

'What a load of tosh, Mitro loses the ball constantly and wouldn't be quick enough to be in the right place for tap ins without being offside. I'm not a massive fan of RLC but believe he offers us more overall. Mitro has not scored in 22 games,for a number 9 not good enough to stay in the premier league.'

'I believe playing Mitro is our solution to remaining in prem and must start giving him more game time now... our best striker over past few seasons consistently scores for Serbia got a gut feeling he will return to form and get amongst the goals again if given more serious game time. Worth a try now Scotty goals win games! This strange season has become fascinating if not nail biting after our poor start we've all seen such massive improvement in our defence and even the media have recognised our turn around in performances. Just got to get our goal scoring sorted and we'll be fine. Are now in the ascendancy and need to turn these good performances into wins and points. Got the hope and vision for getting the job done now and holding onto our decent players to enjoy our new stand watching ongoing PREM football!'

Everyone knew Mitro lacked the speed for this league, however knowing that why didn't Parker get shot of him during the closed season and bring in someone like Toney ? He didn't and now refuses to play the guy. It's true that Mitrovic hasn't scored for 20+ games, but how much playing time has he actually had? Not a great amount, through injury, loss of confidence and therefore form, Covid etc., yet he plays RLC . RLC has scored once in all the pitch time he's had and that was a deflected effort.'

'Mitro should definitely start against Leeds on Friday.'

'Lets hope when the new season starts we have rid ourselves of Mitro, it would save columns of print deciding if this guy will ever be fit and if so what he may or may not do.'

'Speed was never Mitro's forte.

Give him some service in the box starting friday, Leeds defence almost as fragile as ours was in the first 10 games. Don't forget, he got two at there place and his hold up play as good as any body in this team.'

'Exactly, give Mitro a proper service , ie decent crosses and he will score!'

'Parker wants all action players, Mitro does not fit that model and Maja has not got it yet. Mitro is an old fashioned striker who does nothing but score goals. There are a lot of those kind of strikers in the Championship very few in the PL where they are too much of a liability and easy to defend against.'

'I understand the loyalty people show towards Mitro i don't believe he's the same player this season,weather it's COVID, confidence or fitness.'

'If Newcastle lose their game in hand, we only need to match Newcastle results and keep our goal difference as well as beat them on the final day.'

We beat Leeds and Brighton beat Newcastle we are out of the bottom three with our fate in our own hands. If the results go the other way we are in a lot of trouble again. The balance of our season is on a real knife edge as it is not just our results it is everybody else's results as well.'

'I am hoping that we win our next 4 home games to bring us up to at least a total of 38 points, which may or may not save us from going down, but when you look at our home record it is staggering to see that we have only scored 3 goals in our last 10 home games. I'm therefore very sorry to say, that unless we start scoring at home again, starting on Friday, and we will need a real change of fortune to do that, then I'm afraid that the trap door is starting to open.

Looking at our home fixtures against Leeds, Wolves, Burnley and Newcastle, they will all come to stop us scoring, especially Burnley and Newcastle, so the signs are not good.'

'Even if we don't start scoring at home or continue our form, it could well be a race to the bottom 3 with Newcastle! they can't score either and they have a weaker defence. We just need to get our nose ahead of them until the last game.'

'Desperately need a fit Mitro. And stop looking for Newcastle and Brighton to slip up. Only way to survive is to start winning games.'

'In my opinion, if we are going to stay up this season, and it's still only an outside chance, then we should never again, take the field without either Mitro or Maja, or even both, as we must score goals to win which is obvious.'

'By my reckoning 6 or 7 more points keeps us up.'

'I went through the remaining fixtures trying to be realistic and came up with at the end of the season:

42 Southampton

40 Burnley

40 Fulham

35 Brighton

34 Newcastle.'



https://www.themag.co.uk/2021/03/fulham-fans-debate-relegation-battle-with-newcastle-united-agree-drastic-change-needed/

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Scott Parker's Fulham Could Miss Out on Premier League Survival

Scott Parker's Fulham face a difficult run-in as they bid to ensure Premier League survival. The Cottagers have shown signs of improvement in recent weeks but it could be too little to late for the west London club.

Scott Parker's Fulham Could Be Unable to Stay Up
Last Time in the Premier League

Their last season in the top flight was an unmitigated failure and ended in relegation.

They spent over £100 million on transfers over the course of the season, brought in expensive loan signings and came in with high hopes.

Alarm bells had begun ringing early on. They hired the Premier League-winning manager Claudio Ranieri to help stop the rot, but even he could do nothing.

A run of nine successive defeats sealed Fulham's fate, landing them unceremoniously back in the Championship.

Return to the Premier League

Following relegation, the enthusiasm was gone. The pomp and circumstance completely faded. Their new head coach, Scott Parker, was seen as a cheap option and led some to believe an era of mediocrity beckoned.

An opening day defeat at Barnsley only appeared to confirm the Cottagers' fears. However, consistent form and a late-season surge put Fulham in the playoffs. After seeing off a stout-hearted Cardiff City side, they faced Brentford in the final.

Their London rivals certainly went in as favourites, but a magical brace in extra time by Joe Bryan ensured them a return to the top flight at the first time of asking. Scott Parker had answered his critics.

But, this was merely his first challenge. To avoid a repeat of 2019, Parker still had a lot of work to do.

Scott Parker's Fulham Struggle in Premier League Return

Early in the new campaign, it was apparent that Fulham did not have the defensive setup required in the Premier League. They shipped ten goals in their first four games, losing all of them.

Fulham weren't just lacklustre at the back; their defence was the subject of national ridicule. The structure was non-existent, they had little awareness and seemingly no desire to prevent goals from flooding in.

Credit to Parker, he identified the problems of this defensive strategy and set about making changes. For their next fixture, he changed the system to a back four, with Parker electing to use more traditional fullbacks.

Their next league game was another loss, but only by a solitary goal. Fulham's chances still looked remote, but this was comparative progress.

Fulham's most frustrating moment of the season came during added time of their game against West Ham United. Following a very late goal by Tomas Soucek, Fulham were given a penalty and a chance to turn their fortunes.

Instead, Ademola Lookman daintily chipped the ball right into Lukasz Fabianski's hands. Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but of all the times to attempt a Panenka, this wasn't it.

However, this would prove to be part of a crucial turning point.

Fulham's First Win

In November, Fulham finally collected a win at the expense of West Bromwich Albion.

This game proved Fulham had quality in their ranks, even if they didn't always show it. Uncharacteristically, they were comfortable out of possession and surged forward with intent when the opportunity presented itself.

Aleksander Mitrovic was an effective focal point up top, while Zambo Anguissa broke up West Brom's play in midfield and nullified their potential threats.

At the end of the month, Fulham faced a strong Leicester City team, who at this point were considered dark horses for the title. Not only did Fulham get the three points, but they also looked good in doing so and fully deserved their win.

Previously in the season, Leicester had annihilated Manchester City 5-2. Against Fulham, they could only manage one. Quite an improvement from two months previous.

By reconfiguring his side to soak up pressure, Parker was able to extinguish Leicester's narrow attacking plan and break with regularity.

Fulham scrapped their patient possession approach that worked in the Championship and began working on a counterattacking system much better suited to the Premier League.

Change in Tactics

Fulham's home game against Liverpool was such a contrast to their early season form that it was difficult to believe they were the same club. Liverpool were poor, yes, and lucky to salvage a draw, but Fulham were excellent.

They moved the ball directly, gave Liverpool little time to breath and fearlessly ran at their makeshift defence. Here, it seemed evident that Parker was a manager not afraid to do his homework. He had clearly studied Liverpool exhaustively, allowing him to set up his side that perfectly counteracted their weaknesses.

This level of managerial determination is impressive. It's also necessary, given the difficulty of the task he has at hand.

However, against Tottenham Hotspur, Parker shrewdly changed his style back to how they began the season. Mourinho's teams allow the opposition to hold the ball, making economic use of it and breaking with surgical precision.

With this knowledge, Fulham were able to be more patient and in time unlocked Tottenham's defence. Another display of smart tactical planning by the former England international.

Unfortunately for Fulham, they didn't win this game. In fact, since beating Leicester, they went winless for another 12 matches in the league. They were seldom dominated, but old mistakes they had been making at the season's dawn were creeping back in.

They often looked toothless going forward and didn't have the strength in defence to hold onto their generally narrow leads.

That's not to say Fulham have a poor squad. It's far from great, but they do have some quality players whose strengths are exemplified within their system. Bobby Decordova-Reid, Ivan Cavaleiro and Lookman are solid attacking players, aided by a repurposed Mitrovic who now sits deeper.

The Verdict

From the evidence of this season, Scott Parker looks like a promising coach. He's willing to learn from his mistakes and is committed to what he does.

Furthermore, Fulham do have some great players. The notable examples are Zambo Anguissa and Alphonse Areola, two high-quality footballers who will remain in the elite level even if Fulham don't.

However, are these factors enough to keep Fulham afloat? No.

Fulham have a very tough fixture list towards the end of the season. They've had some good wins this campaign, but have also dropped points in key games. This would not be too fatal, were it not for their dreadful run mid-season.

It is difficult to see Fulham overtaking the teams directly above them (Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion). Steve Bruce may have received flak from various angles this season, but grinding out results that matter is his speciality. Fulham play Newcastle in the season's final game, a game where Bruce's vast experience could be pivotal.

Meanwhile, Brighton have been desperately unlucky as of late. They create chances and play wonderful football, but their results don't reflect this. Luck is a fickle thing and it can change in a second.

Relegation may not be such a bad thing for Fulham. They'll lose players, sure, but they'll receive a parachute payment, adding to their already large transfer budget.

Even if they fail to stay up this season, Scott Parker's Fulham are in safe hands. He's young, hungry and eager to learn – everything a new manager should be.



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2021/03/18/scott-parkers-fulham-premier-league-survival/

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Can Leeds finally end their London hoodoo away to Fulham on Friday?
Bielsa has yet to taste victory in any of his 15 matches in London since arriving at Leeds in June 2018.

Leeds travel to resurgent Fulham on Friday hoping to end a worrying run of form in London under head coach Marcelo Bielsa.

The Argentinian has won plenty of plaudits due to the Whites' high-energy attacking style of play since promotion to the Premier League, with the West Yorkshire outfit currently sat in 12th place.

However, their Achilles heel appears to be when they head to the capital with Bielsa yet to taste victory in any of his 15 matches since arriving at the club in June 2018.

This run comprises 13 defeats, including two FA Cup third-round losses, and only two draws under Bielsa, with Leeds scoring only nine goals in the process and conceding 30 – a rate of two per game.

Fulham will be buoyed by the statistics as victory will see the Cottagers climb out of the relegation zone and above Newcastle, who face fellow strugglers Brighton on Saturday evening.

QPR have profited the most with three wins from three, while Arsenal have also won on both occasions they have faced Leeds – something Fulham hope to emulate at Craven Cottage.

Bielsa's first game in London saw Jack Harrison score an 89th-minute equaliser after Millwall's Jed Wallace had broken the deadlock in the second half of their clash at the Den in September 2018.

A 2-1 FA Cup third-round defeat followed at QPR in January 2019 before the same opponents ran out 1-0 winners a month later, with Brentford winning 2-0 in April to round off the 2018-19 campaign.

Leeds' Sky Bet Championship-winning season did not fare much better in the capital, starting with a 1-0 defeat at newly-promoted Charlton in September 2019 followed by 2-1 losses at Millwall and Fulham in October and December respectively later that year.

Arsenal edged out the impressive Whites in a 1-0 win during their successful FA Cup campaign in January 2020 and QPR secured their third-successive home victory by the same scoreline later in the month.

Leeds ended a run of eight straight defeats with a 1-1 draw at Brentford in February 2020, with Liam Cooper salvaging a point after Said Benrahma opened the scoring for the Bees.

Promotion to the top flight did not change their fortunes as they fell to a 4-1 defeat at Crystal Palace last November and a 3-1 loss to Chelsea in December.

The Whites started 2021 with a 3-0 reverse at Tottenham and more north London misery followed in February with a 4-2 defeat at Arsenal – the only time they have scored more than once in the run.

First-half goals from Jesse Lingard and Craig Dawson secured West Ham a 2-0 win at the London Stadium earlier this month to make it 15 games in a row without a victory, but can Leeds finally end their London hoodoo on Friday?



https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/can-leeds-finally-end-their-london-hoodoo-away-to-fulham-on-friday-40211322.html

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Fulham player has good chance of great news today – Career bounce possibility

Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola is set to be called up to the France squad by Didier Deschamps as an option for the fourth spot in the group.

That's according to L'Equipe, who say he is expected to compete with Benoît Costil as a result of playing regularly with Fulham this season.

Areola joined Scott Parker's side on loan from Paris Saint Germain in the summer, seeking regular playing time that wasn't on offer at the French giants.

Despite a couple of shaky moments, he's largely impressed, with a tally of nine clean sheets and just 33 goals conceded in 28 Premier League games a decent return given Fulham have been fighting relegation all season.

He's now set to be rewarded for his efforts, say L'Equipe, with Deschamps looking at him as the fourth goalkeeping option for his squad during this international break.

That is because Areola, who was a World Champion with France not long ago, now 'plays regularly' at Fulham, something he was not getting at either PSG or during a loan spell with Real Madrid last season.

Of course, fourth choice means he's still pretty far down the pecking order but with Deschamps looking at his options, the Fulham man has put himself in with a chance of making the Euros this summer.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-player-good-chance-great-news-today-career-bounce-possibility/

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Marcelo Bielsa insists Scott Parker has earned respect in the Premier League
The two bosses won promotion from the Sky Bet Championship last season.

Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa insists Fulham counterpart Scott Parker has already earned his Premier League wings.

The 65-year-old Argentinian will go head-to-head with Parker at Craven Cottage on Friday evening as a man who is 25 years his junior and a managerial fledgling by comparison continues the process of engineering a recovery which has dragged his club firmly into the race for top-flight survival.

Bielsa, whose side won last season's Sky Bet Championship while Fulham also secured promotion via the play-offs, has been hugely impressed by the way Parker has gone about his job this season.

He said: "He's a manager who has earned the recognition of all those in the Premier League.

"He's gone through difficult moments in the Championship and in the Premier League and in all of them, he's managed to overcome them by imposing his philosophy, and the system that he uses is a very creative one."

Leeds adjusted to life in the Premier League almost from the off, beating Fulham 4-3 in their second game and hovering in relative safety in mid-table for much of the campaign to date.

Parker's men, however, found the going significantly tougher, winning only two of their first 22 games before embarking upon a run of three victories, two of them against Merseyside rivals Everton and Liverpool, in their last seven to edge themselves to within two points of safety.

Bielsa said: "The idea of the manager is reflected in Fulham's play. In the first round, it was difficult for him to impose his style; in the second round of fixtures, they've started to do this a lot better.

"I remember the style when we faced them in the Championship and it's the same style, but they've managed to impose it in a lot of games in the Premier League.

"Apart from that, they are a team that plays on an even keel in the majority of their games. In the games against top-six teams, they play to impose themselves and not just defend, not to avoid being beaten."

Leeds head for London having won only one of their last six games and with Bielsa promising to prepare exactly as he did for high-flying Chelsea's trip to Elland Road last Saturday.

He said: "I always consider the same factors: to defend better, to attack better, trying to have the ball and avoid the opponent building up sums of passes, and overcome them with energy, enthusiasm, organisation and the management of the game.

"These are some of the aspects I remember at this time, and there will be no game to which I will not apply these."



https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/marcelo-bielsa-insists-scott-parker-has-earned-respect-in-the-premier-league-40211839.html

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Can't Underestimate A Fulham Team Playing For Scott Parker – Leeds United Legend

Former Leeds United star Jermaine Beckford has stressed that the Whites cannot afford to underestimate an in-form Fulham team who seem to be playing for Scott Parker.

Leeds have won just one of their last six Premier League games but the point they earned against Chelsea last weekend was a source of confidence.

They are still comfortably sitting in mid-table and are set to travel to London on Friday night to take on a relegation-threatened Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The Cottagers seem to have turned the corner after looking condemned to relegation for much of the season and are now just two points behind 17th placed Newcastle.

Beckford is not looking at the league table as he believes Fulham are looking good and the players are finally playing for Parker, who seems to have galvanised the team.

However, he feels if Leeds play at their best, not many teams in the Premier League can handle their intensity.

Beckford said on The Official Leeds United Podcast: "I am expecting a tough game, to be honest.

"League position aside, Fulham have started to find a little bit of form and they are starting to play for Scott Parker.

"They look very organised, they have got a couple of players who are doing well and so I think it's definitely a game we cannot afford to underestimate our opponents.

"But at the same time, I think we should keep doing what we do best because when we are overrunning people, getting in their faces, passing the ball quickly not many teams can deal with that."

Fulham have won two of their last five games and one of those victories came against Liverpool at Anfield.



https://insidefutbol.com/2021/03/18/cant-underestimate-a-fulham-team-playing-for-scott-parker-leeds-united-legend/499121/

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This Is How We Can Get At Leeds United – Scott Parker

Scott Parker has stressed that Leeds United's attacking instincts will give his Fulham side a chance to get at them, but insists that his team will need to match the intensity of Marcelo Bielsa's men.

Fulham are still sitting in 18th in the league table, but their recent form has been commendable and they are now just two points behind 17th placed Newcastle.

The west London side will host Leeds on Friday night at Craven Cottage and Parker is keen to see them get something from the game in their bid to survive in the Premier League.

The Fulham boss admits that Leeds are a unique side because of the intensity and energy they bring to each game and conceded that his team will need to match them on those counts if they want something on Friday night.

Parker said in a press conference: "They are a unique side in the way they set up, you don't come across it a lot.

The intensity which Leeds play is always one you need to match.

We understand fully what Leeds bring, their energy and the intensity of the game.

We're looking forward to the game, it's a good game, a big game."

The Fulham manager is well aware of Leeds' attacking style of football and feels that while it can put pressure on his defence, his players will get their opportunity to get at the Whites on the counter attack.

"They commit a lot of bodies, and score a lot of goals.

"Their game is expansive and while that can cause you stress and pressure, the flip side is there is a chance you can get at them in transition.

"You need to handle the attacking phase of their game and your structure has to be good and individually you have to be tuned in."

Leeds have not won a league game away in London since April 2018.



https://insidefutbol.com/2021/03/18/this-is-how-we-can-get-at-leeds-united-scott-parker/499191/

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FA Cup & Premier League predictions: Lawro v racing driver Billy Monger, star of Comic Relief's Big Red Nose Challenge

Racing driver Billy Monger takes on Lawro at predictions this week after completing an epic challenge to raise money for Comic Relief.

The 21-year-old, who had both legs amputated after a crash in 2017, covered 140 miles over four days by walking, cycling and kayaking.

You can see how he did it by watching Billy Monger's Big Red Nose Challenge on BBC iPlayer.

Billy was joined along the way by a host of celebrity supporters but the Tottenham fan got a big surprise before he even began, when he met Spurs boss Jose Mourinho.

"I was ready to go up to Newcastle to start my walk, and I had my headphones on in the car when we set off so I didn't know a thing about it," he told BBC Sport.

"It was a shock to the system when we arrived to the Spurs training ground, and then it was a brilliant surprise to meet Jose. He is a top man."

Billy, 21, is taking on Lawro this weekend, and predicting the scores of the four FA Cup sixth-round ties, and four Premier League games.

He said: "I played a bit of football with my mates when I was a kid but it wasn't something I took that seriously, because racing is my passion.

"But I started supporting Tottenham when I was about 10 or 11 because the boss of my karting team was a Spurs fan and I just went along with that. The older I've got, the more I've got into them. They are my team now.

"My favourite players are Harry Kane and Dele Alli and, before he left, Christian Eriksen. He is an incredible player always stood out when he was playing for us because his squad number, 23, was my racing number too. I felt a real association with him through that."

Billy went to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the first time earlier this month when he was a special guest for their 4-1 win over Crystal Palace.

"There were obviously no fans there, which was a shame because you want that atmosphere, it's part of watching a match" he said.

"But at the same time the fact the stadium was empty did give me an opportunity to kind of look at it and take it all in, and see just how amazing it is. Hopefully I will be back soon, when it is filled with our fans."

LAWRO'S PREDICTION
Fulham v Leeds (20:00 GMT, Premier League)

Leeds haven't won - or scored - for a little while now, three games to be exact, which is very unlike them.

That's why I worry for Fulham a bit here, despite Scott Parker's side being in much better form.

When these two sides met at Elland Road back in September, we were finding out what Leeds were like in the top flight - they won 4-3, after losing to Liverpool by the same scoreline the previous weekend.

Fulham were like a different side then, and leaked a lot of goals. They have tightened up a lot since then, but I am expecting Leeds to start firing again here.

Lawro's prediction: 0-2

Billy's prediction: Leeds score a lot of goals but Fulham are looking decent at the moment. 1-1



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/56393472

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Decordova-Reid to miss Leeds game

Fulham face Leeds United tomorrow night without Bobby Decordova-Reid as well as Tom Cairney.

Decordova-Reid has failed to recover from the knock that ruled the forward out against Manchester City last weekend, and captain Cairney has an ongoing knee problem.

Scott Parker insists this will be a different Fulham, both in personnel and approach, to the one that was beaten 4-3 at Elland Road in September.

Of the back four, only Kenny Tete has a chance of playing, while the head coach is confident the mishaps that saw City gifted three uncharacteristic goals won't get repeated.

He said: "Those mistakes, it wasn't about playing out from the back – they were just mistakes.

"One of the goals, the ball hits a backside and rebounds into the path of (Gabriel) Jesus.

"I expect us to play Leeds the way we have in the previous 10-12 games".



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-forward-to-miss-leeds-united-game

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Fulham v Leeds United

Patrick Bamford has scored in all three of his league appearances for Leeds against Fulham

TEAM NEWS

Fulham head coach Scott Parker has no fresh injuries concerns following last week's defeat by Manchester City.

Club captain Tom Cairney remains out with the ongoing knee problem that has sidelined him since mid-December.

Leeds' top scorer Patrick Bamford is expected to be fit despite suffering a hip injury against Chelsea last weekend.

Captain Liam Cooper and Leif Davies are certain absentees, while Rodrigo is nursing a minor muscle strain.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

    Fulham have lost just one of their past eight home league matches against Leeds, winning four and drawing three.
    Fulham have kept clean sheets in all three Premier League home games with Leeds.
    Leeds have not scored a top-flight goal at Craven Cottage since a 5-0 victory in January 1968.
    Marcelo Bielsa's side are looking to complete a first league double over Fulham since the 1984-85 season.

Fulham

    Fulham have been beaten in two of their past three fixtures, as many as in their previous eight games.
    They have lost nine league matches at Craven Cottage; only bottom club Sheffield have been beaten more often at home. All nine of those losses came against clubs currently in the top 11.
    Fulham's only two home league victories this season came against the sides currently below them in the table.
    They have kept clean sheets in six of their past 11 league fixtures.
    Scott Parker's side have scored eight home league goals, fewer than any other side.
    If selected, Aleksandar Mitrovic will make his 100th Premier League appearance.

Leeds United

    Leeds are winless in three league matches, equalling their worst run of the season.
    They have failed to score in four of their past five games, as many as in their first 23 league games this term.
    The Whites are without a Premier League goal in four hours and 36 minutes.
    They have taken 21 points from a possible 24 against the teams currently occupying the bottom seven positions.
    Leeds have lost all five games in London this season, conceding 16 goals.
    They are winless in their past 16 away games in the capital in all competitions, drawing twice and losing 14.
    Patrick Bamford has scored 12 goals in 15 league games played on Fridays, including October's hat-trick at Aston Villa.
    Illan Meslier could become the youngest goalkeeper to record 10 clean sheets in a single Premier League season.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/56369110

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Scott Parker insists Brighton vs Newcastle is an 'irrelevance' to Fulham ahead of huge Leeds clash

Fulham take on Leeds on Friday evening before relegation rivals Brighton and Newcastle do battle on Saturday

Scott Parker has branded Newcastle and Brighton an 'irrelevance' in his Fulham side's bid to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The Cottagers currently occupy 18th place and the third relegation spot and trail Newcastle by two points and Brighton by three points with nine matches remaining.

However, they have a huge opportunity to lift themselves out of the bottom three on Friday evening when they welcome Leeds United to Craven Cottage.

A win over Marcelo Bielsa's side will lift them above Newcastle, and out of the relegation zone, while also piling the pressure on the Seagulls and the Magpies heading into Saturday's huge clash between the two sides at the AMEX Stadium.

However, Parker insists there is no 'extra pressure' on his side this weekend, despite their two relegation rivals facing off against each other.

"No pressure, the pressure comes from within, from us," Parker told Football.London.

"I've been consistent in my message. It's an irrelevance what they're doing. The main focus for us is Friday night against Leeds to put in a performance what we've put in over the last months now to get to this point, needs to come again.

"The main focus is let's go and get three points on Friday night, let's put in a performance to get three points and if we do that it puts us in a good place on the front foot."

When asked if the fact Fulham play before Newcastle and Brighton will serve as a psychological boost to his side, Parker replied: "The biggest boost will be three points.

"I understand we play before the other two teams around us play each other but the biggest boost that we have is that we need to perform on Friday.

"The main focus is to put in a performance, attempt to win that game and get three points and then we move on to the next. Whatever is to be Saturday is really irrelevant, what is relevant is making sure we do our job."



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/scott-parker-insists-brighton-vs-20207132

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Pre-Leeds Press Conference

Scott Parker believes Fulham are a different side now to the one that fell to defeat at Elland Road in September.

Our second Premier League fixture was certainly an eventful one, and it was Leeds United who just about found themselves on the right end of a seven-goal thriller.

"We're a different team, certainly a different animal this time, I think you can see that," Parker explained.

"Personnel, the way the team's grown and the way we've developed over that period, of course is different to when we last played against Leeds.

"Can we take things from that game, and other games we've played? Of course we can.

"But certainly us as a team, we've definitely moved on from where we were when we last played.

"They're a very, very good side. A unique side, in the way they play and set up.

"It's quite unique, you don't come across it a lot. Certainly not in this division, we've experienced it a couple of times last year with Leeds, and Cardiff played a similar way.

"The intensity with which Leeds play is always one that you need to match. We were in the same league last year and we've played them this year, so we understand fully what Leeds bring, their energy and intensity.

"As always, we're looking forward to the game. It's a good game, a big game, and we're raring to go."

With Marcelo Bielsa's side not afraid to throw caution to the wind, it's little surprise that very few of their fixtures end in a draw.

And while Parker knows his team have to be wary of that gung-ho approach, he also acknowledged that there could be chances to capitalise.

"They commit a lot of bodies," he stated. "I think we've seen that.

"They score a lot of goals, I think they're right up there in the charts in terms of chances created.

"Bodies in the box, they always commit a high volume of bodies and their game is very expansive at times.

"Of course while that can cause you stress and put pressure on you, there is on the flipside of that an opportunity at times to get at them through transitions, through counter attacks.

"There's two elements to that; first and foremost you need to be able to withstand the intensity and the numbers they create and how they go about it in the attacking phase of the game, and we need to be able to deal with that.

"That means your structure's got to be good, individually you've got to be very tuned in on that.

"And then on the transitions there is an opportunity that you can look to try and exploit and try and be deadly."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/march/Pre-Leeds-Press-Conference/

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Exclusive: Fulham transfer stance on 29-year-old revealed as Nottingham Forest hover

Fulham are open to letting Anthony Knockaert leave the club this summer with Nottingham Forest interested in a permanent move for the winger, sources have informed Football League World.

Knockaert helped Fulham win promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs last season, before making his season-long loan deal from Brighton and Hove Albion permanent at the end of the campaign for around £10million.

Knockaert was allowed to leave Fulham last summer, though, with the 29-year-old joining Forest on loan initially until January before extending his time at the City Ground until the end of the season.

The Frenchman has been a key player since reuniting with Chris Hughton, scoring two goals and chipping in with one assist in 28 Championship appearances this season.

Sources have now told Football League World that Fulham are open to selling Knockaert this summer, with Scott Parker looking to explore other options even if the Cottagers are relegated to the Championship.

Forest do have an interest in signing Knockaert on a permanent basis, but the club look set to review their finances over the next couple of months before making a decision on his future, with his high wages potentially proving to be a stumbling block.

Forest did include an option to buy in the loan deal back in October, but instead chose to extend his time at the City Ground in January rather than take up that option.

Fulham's league position in the Premier League is still precarious. Parker's side sit 18th in the league standings and two points adrift of safety, having lost only two of their last eight games.

Forest, meanwhile, are still looking to secure their Championship status having gone winless in their last five matches. The Reds sit 18th in the league table, nine points above the bottom three.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/exclusive-fulham-stance-on-29-year-old-revealed-as-nottingham-forest-lurk/

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Fulham: Journalist hails on-loan Opoku

Journalist Peter Rutzler has been speaking on the latest edition of The Athletic's Fulhamish podcast to discuss all things Fulham after their defeat to Manchester City at the weekend.

Rutzler was discussing an interview he had done with the on-loan Jerome Opoku recently to speak about the youngster's time away from Craven Cottage at Plymouth Argyle.

The central defender has spent the season at the League One side, where he has made 27 appearances for the Pilgrims in the league, netting on one occasion (via Transfermarkt).

Previous to this season's loan, Opoku spent the 2019/20 campaign out on loan at Accrington Stanley where he racked up 21 league appearances in his first season away from his parent club.

Speaking about the 22-year-old, Rutzler had this to say about his time out on loan.

He said: "He came across as a really impressive guy.

"He's very headstrong, he knows what he wants to do and he sees those different pathways you know, the comparison between, say, Ryan Sessegnon going straight in, but also someone like Marek Rodak or Marcus Bettinelli, who's been on a few loans and then has come back and made into the first team.

"It's always an unusual place to go, Plymouth, because of the amount of travelling you have to do; he seems to be taking all of that in his stride.

"Now he's kicking on, really, and he wants to keep pushing and go up the levels."

The youngster opened his account for Plymouth in a 2-2 draw with Portsmouth back in November with the defender's goal ensuring the Pilgrims a point in the Dockyard derby.

TIF Thoughts on Rutzler's comments...

Opoku is yet to make his first-team debut for Fulham, however, Rutzler spoke very highly of the youngster which makes you question where his future with the club is if the Whites manage to maintain their Premier League status this season. Alternatively, you can question whether he may be given a chance if they do drop back down to the Championship – though he appears to be doing the right things out on loan.




https://thisisfutbol.com/2021/03/blogs/premier-league/fulham/fulham-journalist-hails-on-loan-opoku/

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Fulham vs Leeds United: Lookman vs Ayling, and other key battles | Premier League

Fulham and Leeds United will battle it out on Friday night at Craven Cottage in the Premier League. Leeds won the reverse fixture in an entertaining goal-fest, as they narrowly beat the Cottagers 4-3 in September last year.

But, heading into Friday's fixture, the hosts are the team in form as they have won two of their last five fixtures, one of which was against defending champions Liverpool. Leeds, meanwhile, have lost three of their last five Premier League games.

Let's take a look at 3 key battles that could decide the outcome of the match between Fulham and Leeds United.

Fulham vs Leeds United – 3 Key Battles

#1 Ademola Lookman vs Luke Ayling
Fulham attacker Ademola Lookman has been one of their best players this season as his pace, trickery and passing has brought him four goals and three assists in the league.

He will most likely start on the left side of Fulham's attack on Friday night and take on Leeds right-back Luke Ayling.

Ayling is a tenacious and quick defender, who likes to put in strong tackles, while also bombing forward at every opportunity. Lookman will have to offer a threat going forward, while also keep Ayling in his own half.

#2 Raphinha vs Ola Aina
Leeds winger Raphinha has had a strong season from the wings, as Lookman has done for Fulham.

The speedy Brazilian has been a big threat to opposing defences from the right side and he has chipped in with five goals and five assists this season.

The 24-year-old will be up against Ola Aina, who should start at left-back for Scott Parker's side.

Aina, too, can be a goal threat, and we could see a lot of action on that side of the pitch with the likes of Lookman, Ayling, Raphinha and Aina fighting it out.

#3 Tyler Roberts vs Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa
Tyler Roberts had a decent game last time around against Chelsea and the Leeds midfielder could keep his place in the starting XI due to the absence of Pablo Hernandez. Roberts likes to drive forward with the ball at his feet and link with the striker.

He will be up against Fulham's midfield strongman Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa who is a strong and physical player, and can contribute in attack and defence.

Anguissa, too, likes to drive forward with the ball, and we could see Roberts and the Fulham midfielder clash in the middle of the park.



https://madaboutepl.net/2021/03/fulham-vs-leeds-united-lookman-vs-ayling-and-other-key-battles-premier-league/

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'There is an opportunity': Scott Parker says Leeds have a weakness he'll try and exploit

Leeds United will hope to pick up their first win in four Premier League games when they head to Fulham on Friday night.

It won't be an easy game for Marcelo Bielsa's side, however, considering how much the Cottagers have improved in recent weeks.

Scott Parker's side has kept five clean sheets since the start of February, including in the shock win away at Liverpool.

And victory over Leeds at Craven Cottage would lift them out of the relegation zone for the first time since December.

Parker insists Fulham are a "different animal" to the team which suffered a 4-3 defeat to Leeds at Elland Road in September.

And even though he acknowledges that the Whites cause "stress and pressure" with their intense attacking play, he says the opportunity is there to get at them on the counter.

"They commit a lot of bodies forward, they score a lot of goals," Parker told Sky Sports.

"They are right up there in the charts in terms of chances created and bodies in the box.

They always commit a high volume of bodies and their games are expensive (in terms of goals conceded) at times.

"So, while that cause you stress and pressure, there is an opportunity at times to get at them on transition on counter-attacks.

"But you need to be able to (deal with) the intensity and the numbers they create, so your structure has got to be good and individually you have got to be tuned in on that.

"But there is an opportunity you can try and exploit and try and be deadly as well."

TBR View:

Leeds may have won just one of their last six in the Premier League, losing four times in that run, but their goalless draw with Chelsea last time out was a very positive result.

Fulham, meanwhile, have tightened up at the back, and they're certainly capable of scoring goals, so it should be an exciting game in which both sides will certainly fancy their chances.



https://tbrfootball.com/there-is-an-opportunity-scott-parker-says-leeds-have-a-weakness-hell-try-and-exploit/

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Cottage Talk Preview: Fulham vs. Leeds United

Take a listen to a podcast that focuses on Fulham Football Club.

This is our preview of Fulham vs. Leeds United and helping us with this preview was Kevin Markey from Leeds United Mad.


You can also listen to the show by following this link...
https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/2021/3/18/22338697/cottage-talk-preview-fulham-vs-leeds-united

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Scott Parker reveals Fulham blueprint for tackling 'unique' Leeds United

Leeds United make the trip to Fulham on Friday looking to extend the gap to the bottom three with a win.

The landscape has changed dramatically since Leeds' first home game of the season when they overcame the Cottagers 4-3.

From then, Fulham have managed to claw their way back from the abyss and are looking a good shout for survival based on recent results, while Leeds are still well clear of trouble.

The upcoming clash at Craven Cottage could change the dynamic of the battle for survival somewhat, whoever triumphs.

Leeds know that a win could take them out of reach of the relegation zone heading into April while a defeat puts the pressure on somewhat.

It's set to be an interesting clash of styles on Friday night with Scott Parker finding results to go with his slick passing style, while Marcelo Bielsa's all-out attacking style has come in for significant praise as well as some criticism this season.

We saw a gripping encounter at Elland Road, but Parker is expected a fairly one-sided spread of possession that he can take advantage of:

"Leeds are a unique side in the way they play. They commit a lot of bodies." He told Fulham's official website.

"That can cause stress but there's a flip side where you can get to them through counters."

Parker has experimented with a few different approaches against Bielsa in the three games prior tomorrow and he's never got the better of the games, even if they won back in December 2019.

Their defensive record of late lends itself to playing in this manner, and it served them very well in their trip to Anfield so you can't blame Parker.

However, even with Liverpool's individual quality, we're playing with far more threat at the moment and sitting deep is asking for trouble in any game when it's not your first port of call.

It'll be an interesting game regardless of how they play because they have the quality to hurt us no matter how they set up.



https://www.leedsallover.com/scott-parker-reveals-fulham-blueprint-for-tackling-unique-leeds-united/

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Fulham must find consistency and balance in attack

Adrian Clarke analyses Scott Parker's options going forward ahead of vital match with Leeds

Adrian Clarke looks at key tactical points in Matchweek 29.

Fulham must start scoring more goals at Craven Cottage if they are to stay up, beginning with the visit of Leeds United this Friday.

Scott Parker's side have found the back of the net just eight times in 15 home matches, the lowest return in the Premier League.

The statistics show that they have created 114 chances in home fixtures, which is more than Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Leicester City, Everton and West Ham United.

Yet clear-cut opportunities have been hard to come by, with just 13 regarded as big chances. Only Southampton have created fewer at home with 11.

Right balance
Parker has made his team increasingly solid from a defensive perspective, using 10 different formations so far.

Fulham have only conceded five goals in their last eight matches home and away, closing the opposition down with great authority.

The key now, especially at Craven Cottage, is to strike a better balance between solidity and adventure going forward.

Leeds' style of play means they can leave themselves open at the back, so this could be the right time for Parker to encourage a more positive approach.

Minutes per home goals compared

Club	Mins/home goal
Fulham	168.8
West Brom	150
Sheffield United	135
Burnley	112.5
Brighton	96.9

Fulham's forward line has rotated throughout the campaign with a number of different players asked to lead their attack.

A lack of goals has in part contributed to Parker's selection policy, but he also likes to adjust his tactics on a match-by-match basis.

Ademola Lookman has been Fulham's most consistently dangerous forward.

With seven direct goal involvements, as well as the most shots and key passes, the 23-year-old is a must-pick for Parker.

Fulham's attackers compared

Player	Goals	Shots	Conv. rate	Chances created
De Cordova-Reid	5	19	26.3%	11
Lookman	4	40	10%	47
Cavaleiro	3	31	9.7%	29
Maja	2	13	15.4%	3
Mitrovic	2	34	5.9%	19
Loftus-Cheek	1	23	4.4%	15

Last season's top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic has played a part in five goals, despite making only 10 starts, but has found the back of the net just twice.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid boasts Fulham's best conversion rate, but he has emerged as a major injury doubt for the Leeds match.

Parker will almost certainly turn to the next player in that category, January signing Josh Maja, who scored twice on his debut at Everton.

Ivan Cavaleiro and Ruben Loftus-Cheek provide Parker with tactical flexibility because they can occupy various positions, but their end product has been low this season.

Unlike their off-the-ball work, there is no clear identity to the way Fulham perform inside the opposition half.

To build chemistry and partnerships, a little more stability is required in terms of team selection in attack.

If Fulham can get the right balance in this area, just as they have done with their defence, staying in the top flight will prove a much more realistic proposition.



https://www.premierleague.com/news/2070614

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Tom Cairney to undergo injections as he struggles to recover from knee injury

Tom Cairney will undergo a course of injections in the coming days as he battles an ongoing knee issue that threatens to rule him out for the rest of the season.

The Fulham club captain sustained the injury during pre-season but after managing the problem through the early stages of the campaign, he has not featured since Fulham's trip to Newcastle on December 19.

Parker says the new course of treatment was recommended by a specialist.

What injury is Cairney struggling with?
Cairney made 10 appearances at the start of the campaign but was forced onto the sidelines in late December.

Last month, Parker revealed Cairney had undergone laser treatment, and the 30-year-old then made a return to modified training.

But Cairney is still struggling to manage the pain. After further specialist advice, he will now receive injections.

Cairney suffered a serious knee injury during the 2017-18 season but this issue is not thought to be in the same knee.

What did Parker say?
He said: "It's proving to be a tricky one at the moment.

"There's some injections we can look at which we're going to do. This course of injections we hope speeds up this healing process; that's what a specialist has recommended we do over the next week or 10 days and then we'll build up again and see if we've made some steps forward.

"You're getting to that point with Tom where he's been out for some time now and the issue is still ongoing.

"So, of course, there's that fear, definitely (that he could miss the rest of the season). We are confident and what brings us that confidence is that he is close.

"But this is an ongoing issue and time is against him with nine games to go."

Did anything else come up in the press conference?
Parker also revealed Mario Lemina and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who are due to represent Gabon and Cameroon respectively, will both be prevented by Fulham from featuring in one of their two upcoming international matches next week.

Both players have fixtures scheduled to take place in countries that are currently on England's 'Red List', and as a result would require two weeks' quarantine upon return, per government guidance.

Anguissa will not be taking part in Cameroon's African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier with Cape Verde on March 26, while Lemina will play no part in Gabon's away match in Angola on March 29.

What did Parker say about the international players?
"The players that have games in red list countries won't be playing in those countries," said Parker. "We've got two. Those players would then miss 14 days and two Premier League games. It's just not feasible for a club like us to be able to do that. So they won't be playing in those countries.

"They are Andre-Frank Anguissa and Mario Lemina. They have two games, one of the games is fine. But there is one game for each of them that is in a red list country."



https://theathletic.com/news/fulham-tom-cairney-injury-latest/1nOP1SL5CDBu