Saturday Fulham Stuff - 15/05/21...

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Results

Friday
Newcastle	3-4	Man City

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Middlesbrough linked with a move for Championship goalkeeper
One of Neil Warnock's problems last season was in the goalkeeping department, due to the inconsistency of Marcus Bettinelli and Jordan Archer.

According to reports, Middlesbrough have been linked with making a move for QPR goalkeeper Joe Lumley who will become a free agent this summer transfer window.

The 26-year-old is QPR's current longest-serving player, and he has played in 77 Championship matches for the club since he made his debut.

Lumley has had to be played as a backup goalkeeper for the club, behind Seny Dieng in the pecking order. He has spells at Gillingham and Doncaster Rovers on emergency loans.

Middlesbrough boss Neil Warnock is in serious search of a reliable goalkeeper, with the uncertainty of the future of Marcus Bettinelli, who is set to return to his parent club Fulham.

Signing Lumley could be the solution to his goalkeeping problem, and considering they will get him for free, it may be a decent move.



https://www.oneboro.co.uk/boro-news/middlesbrough-linked-with-a-move-for-championship-goalkeeper-14521

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Fulham youngsters could feature in end-of-season games

Fulham will make use of fringe players and the best of their development squad during the final three games of the season as they plan for life after relegation.

Scott Parker revealed he needs to assess the future going into the Championship, and that means looking again at those short of game time as well as the likes of Fabio Carvalho and promising midfielder Sylvester Jasper.

The head coach said: "As much as we've got three games to consider, you're looking ahead as well. There's a definitely a balance in there.

"Maybe them players (under-23s) will come up with us. Fabio's already with us and a couple of players will join as well."

Fulham take on Southampton at St Mary's on Saturday and Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday night. They will end the season with a match against Newcastle.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/football-wls-fulham-youngsters-could-feature-against-southampton-and-man-utd

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Where does relegation leave our squad?
Colm takes a look at what Monday evening's relegation means for our current squad of players.

With our defeat to Burnley on Monday night, relegation to the Championship next season was confirmed, and with that will come another summer of squad upheaval. Having relied so heavily on loan signings, this was always going to be a risk if we didn't survive. To put it into context, out of the seven loan signings we made, six of them featured against Burnley on Monday night, with Ola Aina being the only exception. While that has obvious consequences on the starting XI, we'll take a look at the impact this relegation will have on our squad as a whole and what we will be left with next season.

Goalkeepers
Alphonse Areola, for me, has been our best loan signing of the season, but unfortunately he will be heading back to PSG this summer and will possibly be looking to get another move back to the Premier League where he is more than capable of getting game time. We have an option to buy at the end of his loan, but it'll have hinged on staying in the top flight. 

Fabri and Marcus Bettinelli are both out of contract this summer, and as of yet neither have signed new deals. That create the real possibility of Marek Rodak being our only senior goalkeeper left at the club. Marek did a tremendous job for us in the Championship last season and many were upset he didn't get his chance in the Premier League. He'll more than likely be restored between the sticks next season. But there'll certainly need to be some recruitment done to find some backups.

Defence
Unfortunately, relegation will see the dissolution of the centre-back partnership of Joachim Anderson and Tosin, with the former heading back to Lyon at the end of his loan deal. We don't have an option to buy, and Anderson is definitely going to be on the radar of Premier League clubs, with Spurs already linked with making a move for him.

Terence Kongolo, looked able to step up to the mark during his only appearance this season, against Wolves, but huge questions remain over his ability to stay fit. Ola Aina is the other loanee in the backline, and with his versatility, a case could be made for making his move permanent, but the £15m price tag might be a deterrent.

Kenny Tete, Antonee Robinson, and Joe Bryan will all be around next season, which gives a solid backline to choose from. Micahel Hector, Alfie Mawson, and Denis Odoi will also be options, with Maxime Le Marchand and Steven Sessegnon both returning from loan spells away from the club. Tim Ream and Cyrus Christie are both out of contract this summer, and realistically their futures probably lie elsewhere.

Midfield
Our midfield next season is going to take a hit. We spent most of the season playing with two of Lemina, Reed, and Anguissa in the engine room and Loftus-Cheek or Decordova-Reid sometimes playing centrally but further up the pitch. There was a £7m option to buy in Lemina's deal, but only if we avoided relegation. While I wouldn't rule it out completely, I would be surprised if he made the drop to the Championship.

Thankfully, there was never an option to buy with Ruben Loftus-Cheek and he'll be moving back 'next door' at the end of the season. Andre-Frank Anguissa is a different story though. When we were relegated in 2019, he was out the door faster than the Michael Jackson statue when the Khans took over. Only time will tell whether the same will happen again this year, but I feel like he's a lot more settled in the squad this time around. The fact that he is reportedly the highest-paid player in the squad may have an impact on the decision made though.

Harrison Reed, Tom Cairney, Bobby Decordova Reid, and Josh Onomah should all be still here next term. Stefan Johanson has another year left on his deal, but after his impressive loan spell at QPR, you've got to think the Hoops will be in for the Norwegian. Finally, Jean Micheal Seri returns from Bordeaux, but one would think there is no space for him in the squad.

Attack
This summer looks set to play host to a "will he, won't he" transfer saga with Alexsander Mitrovic. His post-match comments after the Burnley defeat didn't do anything to give us any indication of where his future may lie. But with 26 goals last season in the Championship, we have a proven goalscorer who could be crucial in our bid to bounce straight back up. It appears he and Scott Parker are not on the best of terms, so Parker's presence in the dugout come the start of the season may have an impact on whether Mitro is there or not.

Josh Maja has an option to buy for £9m, but I don't think he's done enough to warrant that sort of transfer fee. Bourdeux's financial struggles in France could see that figure halved, which oculd test our resolve. Ademola Lookman will head back to RB Leipzig unless we come up with the £15m they want for him, which leaves us with Ivan Caveleiro and the returning Anthony Knockaert, Neeskens Kebano, and Aboubakar Kamara.

Youngsters like Fabio Carvalho and Sylvester Jasper could also find themselves with the first team a lot more often and could be in line for much more game time. But whichever way you slice it, our super light attacking options will become a lot thinner. The chequebook needs to come out

All in all, if we manage to hold onto Mitrovic and Anguissa, there's a strong core to the side that could mount a challenge to add the extra yo to our yo. Hopefully, we'll see a mix of experience and youth deployed next year, but if we want to return at the first time of asking, there are more than a few gaps that need to be plugged in the transfer window.

https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2021-05-14-where-does-relegation-leave-our-squad/

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Tottenham transfer target Joachim Andersen keen to stay in Premier League after Fulham relegation

Tottenham's hopes of signing Fulham loanee Joachim Andersen have been boosted by the centre-half's desire to remain in the Premier League.

Andersen, 24, has impressed on loan at Craven Cottage this season despite Fulham's relegation and is expected to return to parent club Lyon before joining a new club permanently in the summer.

Spurs are among the clubs interested in the £20million-rated Denmark international, who is happy in London and would like to remain in the top-flight, joining a club competing in Europe next season.

Spurs first tracked Andersen while he was playing for Sampdoria but any firm talks are unlikely to take place until the end of the campaign.

Spurs' interim head-coach Ryan Mason, whose side host Wolves on Sunday, has five centre-halves to choose from but the club have made it a priority to upgrade the position in the summer.

The north London club will have to offload players before adding to the squad but have expressed cautious optimism at their ability to recover from the pandemic, saying in a statement this week: "Like many clubs, we shall need to recover from the loss of substantial revenues. The still-new stadium is the game changer in our progress – it will deliver the revenues for investment in the First Team."

Mason's side are engaged in a battle to secure Europa League football next season but could qualify for the inaugural Europa Conference League if they finish seventh.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/tottenham-transfer-joachim-andersen-premier-league-fulham-b935137.html

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Fulham relegated; what's left to play for bottom half Premier League teams?

A 2-0 loss to Burnley is all that Fulham needed to sink back into the Championship after 35 Premier League games this season. For Fulham, it wasn't really a season to remember. I guess you can say the same about other teams in and around their position in the league table.

Fulham sits just one point ahead of West Brom, whose fate was also sealed in their loss at the weekend to Arsenal.

Unfortunately this season there will be no final day relegation drama to compliment what has been an interesting and peculiar Premier League season.

Fulham, West Brom, as well as Sheffield United, are sent back down to the Championship with three games still to go this season.

Although teams like Brighton and Newcastle can relax now without the battle of survival looming over them, there still seems to be a lot to play for at the bottom half of the league. Certainly not for Fulham and the others, but there are many teams with a point to prove in their last few games.

Whether it's preparing for 2021/22 or deciding the fate of their manager, these last few games will be somewhat pivotal to a handful of the bottom half clubs. So, what's left to play for?



https://thetopflight.com/2021/05/14/fulham-bottom-premier-league-teams/

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U18: Chelsea Preview

Fulham and Crystal Palace have battled it out for supremacy for much of the season, and the fight will reach its climax on Saturday as Fulham Under-18s head to Chelsea for their final game of the season. A win would secure back-to-back titles for Steve Wigley's side.

The game will be free to watch on our website and app.
Form

Fulham:

The young Whites have showed no signs of flagging, winning their last eight games to maintain pressure on Crystal Palace, who also enjoyed an excellent run of victories.

Chelsea:

Our South-West London rivals have won three of their previous five league games, including a 7-0 win over Aston Villa and three points against North London side Tottenham Hotspur. However, in their last match, they tasted defeat after a 2-1 loss at home to Arsenal.

Last Time Out

The reverse tie before Christmas went down to the wire, with Ollie O'Neill's 89th minute strike helping Fulham take the three points with a narrow 2-1 win. They'll be hoping for something a little less dramatic this time around.
Player Thoughts

Midfielder Ollie O'Neill shared his feelings ahead of the crunch match.

FFCtv

This game will be available to stream and free-to-air via FFCtv, with Jamie Reid providing commentary.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/may/U18-Chelsea-Preview/

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Southampton v Fulham

Southampton's Jan Bednarek could miss the visit of Fulham because of an injury sustained against Crystal Palace

TEAM NEWS

Defender Jan Bednarek is a doubt for Southampton, having been withdrawn at half-time in Tuesday's win over Crystal Palace because of an ankle injury.

Ryan Bertrand and Oriol Romeu remain unavailable.

Fulham - whose relegation was confirmed after defeat against Burnley on Monday - have no fresh injury concerns.

Tom Cairney is still out but fellow midfielder Harrison Reed has recovered from an ankle injury and could face his former club.

LAWRO'S PREDICTION

Southampton looked sharp against Liverpool last weekend and could easily have left Anfield with a draw, then Danny Ings came back to fire them to victory over Crystal Palace on Tuesday.

I'd expect Saints to get the better of Fulham too but, considering the Cottagers have been relegated, they are not a bad side at all.

Fulham's slow start obviously didn't help but even when they improved they didn't get the results their performances often deserved. They are going down, but at least they had a good go at staying up.

Prediction: 2-0

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head

    Southampton have lost just one of the past eight Premier League meetings, winning three and drawing four.
    Fulham have only won one of their past 30 league visits to Southampton (D8, L21).
    There has only been one away win in 15 Premier League encounters.

Southampton

    Southampton have won once in five matches, drawing one and losing three.
    They have earned the fewest points (14) and conceded the most goals (43) in the Premier League this calendar year.
    Ralph Hasenhuttl's side have lost 13 of 17 league games since beating Liverpool in January.
    Saints have only kept one clean sheet in their last 18 league matches.
    They have lost just three of their last 43 Premier League home fixtures against sides starting the day in the relegation zone.

Fulham

    Fulham have only earned one point from their seven most recent matches.
    They have failed to score in 17 league games this season; only Sheffield United have fared worse.
    Fulham have opened the scoring in nine Premier League away matches this season but won just three of those.
    Top scorer Bobby De Cordova-Reid is without a goal in his past 12 appearances.
    All three of Aleksandar Mitrovic's Premier League goals for Fulham this season have come away from home.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/57034889

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Report: PL club are now absolutely furious with Tottenham-linked manager

Fulham chiefs are said to be 'furious' with Tottenham Hotspur linked Scott Parker by the Athletic, after their relegation.

Parker said following Fulham's relegation that he hadn't spoken with ownership about his future.

However, Fulham's board apparently have now spoken to the 40-year-old and their reasoning behind not speaking to Parker sooner is because they were so frustrated with the manner of their relegation.

The report plunges Parker's future into further doubt amid links with the Tottenham job.

The Daily Mail say that Parker is a manager under consideration by Daniel Levy to be Tottenham's next boss.

Spurs are still searching for Jose Mourinho's replacement, with their hunt for a new boss now taking weeks.

Parker's appointment would likely divide opinions at Tottenham.

While the rookie manager has earned credit for Fulham's style of play, the Cottagers were relegated this season.

And for Tottenham to grab a manager so soon after his side dropped into the Championship may not be the best look for the North London club.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2021/05/14/report-pl-club-are-now-absolutely-furious-with-tottenham-linked-manager/

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Scott Parker urges 'pride' and 'professionalism' from Fulham

SCOTT Parker urged his Fulham players to show their pride and professionalism as they head to Saints on Saturday having already been relegated.

The Cottagers' most recent stint in the Premier League lasted just one season after they were relegated on Monday following a 2-0 defeat against Burnley.

A number of Fulham's first-team players are currently on loan deals, and despite the fate of the club already being sealed, Parker insisted his troops will remain focused.

"I'm a professional person and the players are as well, and they have a job to do," the Fulham boss said.

"They're employed by the football club, they have a job to do and they're in the biggest and the most spotlighted league in the world, bar none and every week you go out there that spotlight is shining on you.

"Whether you're relegated or not there's a pride and a professionalism that needs to come into place and that's my message first and foremost to the team.

"Of course like anything, these are the moments when you really see what people are made of and you see what certain traits people have in their character and it's normally during the tough times.

"I've seen that throughout this year with this group of players and they – at many times – have stood up to that and they've been strong in that and they've got traits that have been positive.

"But like I said you only really test someone's personality or traits or see that during adversity and now at this moment there can be a lot of excuses, there's a lot of reasons why maybe one or the other doesn't need to perform at a level, but the facts are they do."

Fulham have netted just 25 goals so far this season, fewer than everyone except rock-bottom Sheffield United, and their struggle in the final third was one of a number of problems faced by the club this season.

Following the confirmation of their drop to the Championship, Parker said he had taken a day or two to reflect.

"(I) took some time out initially after the game and the next day, then after just back into what is three games left, so a big game on Saturday," he said.

"Of course disappointed, there is disappointment around the place, of course there is, because this season ended with relegation for us but as always, this part when you still have three games left to play, there's a focus which is Southampton and then on to the following week where we've got two games left really.

"So not too much reflection as of yet but that's still to come."



https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/19302857.scott-parker-urges-pride-professionalism-fulham/

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Spurs handed boost in pursuit of Fulham loanee Andersen

Fulham loanee Joachim Andersen is happy in London and wants to play in the Premier League next season, according to reports.

The centre-back has been one of Fulham's best players during a campaign which has ultimately ended in relegation.

He's caught the eye of plenty of scouts and could leave parent club Lyon in the summer.

According to the Evening Standard, Andersen wants to play in the Prem and in Europe next term.

He's keen to remain in England and would like Lyon to consider any offers that are made for him.

The news is a major boost to Spurs, who are thought to be leading the race for his signature.

They've already scheduled talks with the player's representatives about a £20million move to north London.

The report also adds that Spurs have been tracking Andersen since his Sampdoria days and may finally act on their interest.

Interim head coach Ryan Mason, who replaced Jose Mourinho in April, has five centre-halves in his squad.

Toby Alderweireld, Eric Dier and Davinson Sanchez are the main players to have occupied the position this season.

However, Spurs chiefs have made a new centre-back their priority for the upcoming summer transfer window.

That's where Andersen comes in. The 24-year-old could add some stability to their defence and help them to qualify for the Champions League once again.

The Danish international has looked comfortable competing in the top flight during his first year here.

He's made 29 league appearances so far, scoring one goal. He's even captained Scott Parker's team for most of the season.

Andersen isn't the only Premier League man who looks set to be targeted this summer.

Spurs are on the search for a new manager and may look to Brighton's Graham Potter.

The English coach has steered the Seagulls to another season in the Prem and might just be the perfect fit in north London.

However, Brighton are not keen to let their manager go.

When asked about the speculation, club chief Graham Barber said: "We have no desire whatsoever to lose Graham.

"Graham is very happy here. We are delighted with the work he is doing, the work that the staff around Graham are doing, so as far as we are concerned, there is absolutely no way that we would allow Graham to leave at this time.

"I don't think there is any interest on Graham's part either, I think he is very happy with what he is doing and we are delighted with what he is doing for us."



https://www.football365.com/news/spurs-handed-boost-pursuit-fulham-loanee-joachim-andersen

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Southampton vs Fulham: Can Saints Win Two Straight



Southampton take on Fulham Saturday and will look to win two straight matches in the Premier League for the first time in a while.

Fulham's fate has already been sealed and will not be in the Premier League next season while Southampton look to finish the season on a high note.

This is an opportunity for Southampton to pick up three more points and ensure they finish closer to the middle of the table as opposed to the bottom.

Let us see how both teams win this match

How Southampton Will Win

The Saints will be feeling confident after scoring three goals in their last match and picking up three points. Danny Ings netted twice and Che Adams saw himself find the back of the net as well.

Outside of the first 3 minutes of the match, Southampton dominated the match and honestly did not look like a team that was sitting in 17th at the time of the match.

I believe they will play just as well tomorrow as they did last week and will get another dominant victory against a team that will not be in the Premier League next season (Sorry Fulham fans).

How Fulham Will Win

Fulham, do not have anything to play for other than pride and that could be beneficial for them. They can play free-flowing football and can really take it to Saints.

It will be an open match and if Southampton do not finish their chances Fulham could very easily net a couple of goals and grab a result from this match.

I think it will be a fun match to watch as both teams do not have much to play for and either team could win.

Predicted Score

Southampton 2-0 Fulham

I think Southampton will just be the better team in this match and will pick up another 3 points and move a little closer to a respectable 12th place finish.



https://saintsmarching.com/2021/05/14/southampton-vs-fulham-can-saints-win-two-straight/

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Queens Park Rangers transfer rumours: Hoops eyeing permanent swoop for Stefan Johansen

Having already bolstered his squad ahead of the 2021/22 campaign by signing Jordy de Wijs on a permanent deal, Queens Park Rangers boss Mark Warburton will be hoping to draft in some more players in the coming months.

Considering that the Hoops illustrated some real signs of promise last season, a strong transfer window could result in them emerging as contenders for promotion next year in the Championship.

Whilst Warburton will have to keep the likes of Ilias Chair and Lyndon Dykes at the club in order to have any chance of achieving a return to the Premier League, he may also benefit from the return of a player who knows exactly what it takes to succeed in the second-tier.

Signed by the Hoops on a short-term loan deal earlier this year from Fulham, Stefan Johansen made a positive impact for the club during the second-half of the previous campaign.

As well providing two assists for his team-mates in 15 league appearances, the Norway international netted three goals from central-midfield.

After Warburton confirmed last weekend that he would be open to the possibility of signing Johansen on a permanent deal, a fresh update has now emerged.

According to West London Sport, QPR are still eyeing a move for the midfielder but it is currently unclear whether the Cottagers will be willing to let him leave following their relegation to the Championship.

Johansen, who is valued at £1.8m on Transfermarkt, is set to enter the final year of his contract at Craven Cottage and thus this summer represents the final chance that Fulham will have to secure a sizeable fee for him.

Whilst the midfielder was limited to just two League Cup appearances for the Cottagers before making a temporary switch to QPR, he did help the club achieve promotion to the top-flight in the 2019/20 campaign by featuring on 33 occasions in the Championship.

GIVEMESPORT's Joshua Cole says...

Considering that QPR's stance on a move for Johansen is abundantly clear, it will be intriguing to see whether they will be able to get a deal over the line for the Fulham man this summer.

As well as being directly involved in five goals for the Hoops last season, the 30-year-old illustrated that he can still compete at Championship level by recording an impressive average WhoScored rating of 6.79.

Whilst QPR will have to splash the cash in order the secure Johansen's services, his presence in the heart of their midfield next season could allow the club to push on in the second-tier.

Having already achieved two promotions to the Premier League with Fulham in recent years, there is no reason why the former Celtic man cannot replicate this particular feat with the Hoops in the future if he decides to join the club.



https://www.givemesport.com/1691774-queens-park-rangers-transfer-rumours-hoops-eyeing-permanent-swoop-for-stefan-johansen

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Report: Spurs and Arsenal target Joachim Andersen wants to stay in England

Arsenal and Spurs will be delighted with reports today that suggest Fulham loan star, Joachim Andersen, wants to remain in England.

The Evening Standard reports today that Andersen is currently happy in London. Indeed, he hopes to remain in the Premier League and the capital if possible, seemingly putting an end to his spell in Lyon.

Andersen has been a bright light for Fulham this term, despite their relegation. Both Spurs and Arsenal are said to be keen, although a £20m asking price is something either club will need to meet to land the Danish star.

The Sun reported just a few days back how Arsenal could look to hijack any potential Spurs move for Andersen. However, Spurs might have a trump card up their sleeve if they opt to bring Scott Parker in as manager.

Andersen's admission will no doubt have perked the interest of the north London duo. Both teams need a new defender this summer, with Andersen's £20m valuation not the biggest fee in the world.

TBR View: Good news for Spurs and Arsenal over Andersen, but is he worth it?

And that's the million dollar question both clubs and managers will be weighing up. Yes he's impressed, but his team has still gone down, meaning any decision to spend £20m needs to be considered.

Andersen is a good player, there is no doubt. But with the pandemic affecting revenues, any signings are going to be well thought out this summer in the PL.

Arsenal and Spurs, then, might find themselves with a decision to make rather quickly.



https://tbrfootball.com/report-spurs-and-arsenal-target-joachim-andersen-wants-to-stay-in-england/

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Tottenham add Scott Parker to managerial shortlist – but give up on Brendan Rodgers

The former Spurs midfielder was relegated with Fulham earlier this week

Tottenham have given up hope of luring Brendan Rodgers away from Leicester as they continue their search for a new manager.

Spurs relieved Jose Mourinho of his duties in April to end the Portuguese's 18-month tenure.

Ryan Mason is interim charge of the club until the end of the season, but the 29-year-old will not be appointed to the position on a permanent basis.

Rodgers emerged as a leading contender soon after Mourinho departed, but Tottenham have now accepted that they will not be able to prise him away from Leicester, according to Football Insider.

The Foxes will participate in the FA Cup final on Saturday and are on course to qualify for the Champions League.

Rodgers is happy at the King Power Stadium and is not interested in swapping his current job for the one in north London.

The Northern Irishman appeared alongside Roberto Martinez and Julian Nagelsmann on Spurs' original shortlist.

But while Belgium boss Martinez remains in the mix, Tottenham have been forced to scratch off the names of the other two managers.

The club plans to begin interviewing candidates in the coming days, and Fulham head coach Scott Parker is among those they are hoping to speak to.

Fulham were relegated to the Championship on Monday but Parker has still emerged from the campaign with credit.

The former Tottenham midfielder has also been mentioned in relation to the England Under-21 managerial vacancy.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is a huge admirer of Parker, but Martinez is also highly regarded by the club.

The Spaniard is said to be keen to return to club football and could step down as Belgium manager after Euro 2020.

Tottenham are eight points adrift of the top four with three games remaining and are almost certain to miss out on the Champions League for a second season on the bounce.



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/tottenham-add-scott-parker-to-managerial-shortlist-but-give-up-on-brendan-rodgers

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Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek to get Southampton chance as Saints eye £20m star - EXCLUSIVE
EXCLUSIVE: Southampton are keen to sign Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek on loan this summer.

Southampton are ready to give Ruben Loftus-Cheek another chance to kickstart his career next season. The Chelsea and England midfielder has had a disappointing season on loan at Fulham this year and ended up being relegated, after scoring just once for the Cottagers in 29 games.

But Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuttl is a fan of the 25-year-old and tried to sign Loftus-Cheek last summer before Fulham moved in.

Saints are now planning a bid this summer to take Loftus-Cheek on a season-long loan, with a possible view to a permanent deal if the move works out.

Loftus-Cheek is set to go back to Chelsea when this season ends, but will struggle to break into Thomas Tuchel's side, with N'Golo Kante, Mateo Kovacic, Jorginho, Mason Mount, Kai Havertz and Christian Pulisic all vying for places.

Hasenhuttl though believes he can work with Loftus-Cheek, and that the skilful, if inconsistent, attacking midfielder, can be an asset to his side next year.

Loftus-Cheek has now fully recovered from his achilles tendon injury but is looking to rediscover the form that saw him score 10 times for Chelsea in 2018-19.

Saints are also set to get Mario Lemina back from his loan at relegated Fulham - who they face at St Mary's - but he is likely to be sold.

Full-back Ryan Bertrand is leaving at the end of the campaign, and Hasenhuttl has said he needs reinforcements next year if his team are not to have another end of season dip.

Loftus-Cheek, who is on around £120,000 a week at Chelsea, still has three years of his contract to run there, and is valued at around £20million.

Discussing the midfielder last month, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel compared the Three Lions international to Michael Ballack, one of Germany's all-time greats.

"I was quite a fan of him when he was even younger," explained Tuchel.

"It reminded us a bit of his style of play and movements with Michael Ballack.

"There were some links about him all the time with maybe a move to the German league so we were well aware of his talent.

"He is on loan now and doing well. It would be unfair to judge him from TV.

"I like to work with players and give my opinion then – maybe also pretty quick but also from a direct impression.

"I don't know what my opinion is or the club's opinion is. There's no decision made yet."

Southampton meanwhile lifted themselves up to 14th by beating Crystal Palace last time out and hit the 40-point mark in the process.

After facing Fulham, the south coast club take on Leeds and West Ham in their final two matches.

They can finish no higher than 12th unless there is a huge goal difference swing between themselves and Aston Villa and that is also reliant on Southampton winning three from three.

Southampton could still yet finish 17th with Brighton only three points behind them, albeit with an inferior goal difference.




https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1436177/Chelsea-transfer-news-Ruben-Loftus-Cheek-Southampton-loan-Premier-League-transfers

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Red alert! Manchester United will stick to plans to welcome 10,000 fans back into Old Trafford for Tuesday's clash with Fulham despite violent anti-Glazer protests in recent weeks

    Man United will go ahead with plans to welcome fans back to Old Trafford
    There had been concerns over fan return after violent anti-Glazer protests
    The decision to allow 10,000 back for Tuesday's game was reviewed on Friday

Manchester United will go ahead with plans to let supporters back into Old Trafford despite violent protests against the club's owners.

Sportsmail can reveal that the decision to allow 10,000 fans into the ground for Tuesday's game against Fulham was reviewed on Friday following anti-Glazer demonstrations.

What had been considered a formality following the Government's decision to ease lockdown restrictions was thrown into doubt by Thursday's protest before the defeat by Liverpool.

But after urgent talks between United and their safety advisory group — made up of Trafford Borough Council, local police and emergency services — a safety certificate for the Fulham game was eventually issued late in the day.

United will now welcome fans into Old Trafford for the first time in more than 14 months, going back to the Manchester derby in March last year.

The move could be considered a big gamble in light of the trouble that has flared at home games since United's role in the failed European Super League led to a backlash against the Glazers.

It could present opportunities for troublemakers, and there are fears protesters may infiltrate the match-going fans to cause more disruption. United are confident they will know who is coming into Old Trafford, with supporters applying for tickets through a ballot system and facing strict identity checks at the ground.

But having gone to great lengths to keep protesting fans out of the stadium over the past two weeks, there are concerns over letting so many of them back in.

United have fortified Old Trafford with a 10ft wall and steel barricades. It followed the angry demonstrations that forced their game against Liverpool to be postponed 13 days ago, when protesters clashed with police and invaded the pitch.

The rescheduled game went ahead on Thursday but only after United players had to arrive seven hours before kick-off and Liverpool used a decoy team bus to smuggle themselves into the ground.

Two fans were arrested as protesters clashed with police. United and Liverpool are now likely to scrap a friendly between the two clubs planned for Old Trafford in July.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: 'Hopefully when we let the fans in on Tuesday it's a good atmosphere. We have waited a long time to let them in so we're looking forward to enjoying the game together.'

It will be United's final home game of a season that will end with the Europa League final against Villarreal in Gdansk a week on Wednesday.

The club are already pursuing transfer targets for next season and talks are said to have taken place with representatives of Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9580475/Manchester-United-let-10-000-fans-Old-Trafford-Fulham-clash-despite-protests.html

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Scott Parker wanted Fulham on the front foot this season
The Cottagers were relegated with three games to spare.

Scott Parker has revealed he wanted Fulham to be an attack-minded team this season despite their struggles in front of goal contributing to their relegation.

The Cottagers' most recent stint in the Premier League lasted just one season after they were relegated on Monday following a 2-0 defeat against Burnley.

Fulham were widely criticised in 2018-19 when they were relegated despite spending almost £100 million on transfers, conceding 81 goals in the process.

Parker took the reigns as the third manager during that campaign and admitted it was something he wanted to avoid this time round.

"It's always a starting point for a team to give yourselves a solid base and a real platform. That's where we were at the start of this season," he said.

"But we want to be on the front foot and be an attack-minded team, there is that element as well.

"Last time we were in this league we conceded a lot of goals and the way this season started it was looking similar. We brought in some additions, did a lot of work and improved defensively.

"I would also say that even with our attack-minded play we were creating a lot of chances. We were getting the ball in the right areas but fell short at certain moments in terms of being clinical.

"But as a team we have progressed in the right way. This division is unforgiving and we have been found out at certain times."

Ahead of their trip to Southampton on Saturday, Fulham have conceded 49 goals this season, of which 10 came in the opening three matches.

With a number of players' loan contracts due to end, Parker suggested he could bring in other squad players for the remaining matches.

"Yeah it's definitely something we need to consider," he said.

"As much as we have got three games here now, and they are important games, you are looking ahead as well.

"That's a decision I need to make and work out. There's definitely a balance in that for sure. We'll see how that pans out in the coming days."



https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/scott-parker-wanted-fulham-on-the-front-foot-this-season-40428534.html

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Scott Parker: 'Fulham want to be an attack-minded team'

Scott Parker has revealed he wanted Fulham to be an attack-minded team this season despite their struggles in front of goal contributing to their relegation.

The Cottagers' most recent stint in the Premier League lasted just one season after they were relegated on Monday following a 2-0 defeat against Burnley.

Fulham were widely criticised in 2018-19 when they were relegated despite spending almost £100 million on transfers, conceding 81 goals in the process.

Parker took the reins as the third manager during that campaign and admitted it was something he wanted to avoid this time round.

"It's always a starting point for a team to give yourselves a solid base and a real platform. That's where we were at the start of this season," he said.

"But we want to be on the front foot and be an attack-minded team, there is that element as well.

"Last time we were in this league we conceded a lot of goals and the way this season started it was looking similar. We brought in some additions, did a lot of work and improved defensively.

"I would also say that even with our attack-minded play we were creating a lot of chances. We were getting the ball in the right areas but fell short at certain moments in terms of being clinical.

"But as a team we have progressed in the right way. This division is unforgiving and we have been found out at certain times."

Ahead of their trip to Southampton on Saturday, Fulham have conceded 49 goals this season, of which 10 came in the opening three matches.

With a number of players' loan contracts due to end, Parker suggested he could bring in other squad players for the remaining matches.

"Yeah it's definitely something we need to consider," he said.

"As much as we have got three games here now, and they are important games, you are looking ahead as well.

"That's a decision I need to make and work out. There's definitely a balance in that for sure. We'll see how that pans out in the coming days."



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/scott-parker-fulham-want-to-be-an-attack-minded-team_447535.html?newsnow

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Is Tottenham chasing the wrong Fulham defender, in Andersen?

In news that we know is not breaking like Sky Sports reports. Tottenham Hotspur is apparently again chasing after and even has made progress signing Fulham defender Joachim Andersen. However, if Tottenham were really forward-thinking in the recruitment department, it would be Andersen's teammate Tosin Adarabioyo they would be scouting instead.

Tottenham Defense needs to get better
There are a number of areas to address in the Tottenham defensive middle, from getting younger, more athletic, to getting better passers, and frankly just better defenders. HotspurHQ covered a number of left-sided center-halves earlier in the season but Tottenham seems intent on signing another right-footed player if the Joachim Andersen to Tottenham rumors is to be believed.

However, for a number of reasons, we at HotspurHQ see Joachim Andersen as just more of the same as what we have, which is not enough on several levels. If Tottenham is serious about both getting better and getting younger, then it is not Andersen but his center-back partner, Tosin Adarabioyo they should be targeting as the team's next right-center-half.

Fulham defense is not terrible
Adarabioyo and Andersen have formed the core of the Fulham defense this season and both are young with potentially bright futures in the Premier League. Before everyone goes crazy over Fulham being relegated, it was far more because of the offense than the defense.

Fulham has given up fewer goals than Leeds and only two more than West Ham at 47 against on the season. With the second worse offense in the league at only 25 goals for, the defense has not had much of a chance to shine.

And while neither Andersen nor Adaradioyo is a perfect target, both have promise. That said, here are three reasons, Tottenham should be targeting Adaradioyo instead of Andersen.

Tosin Adaradioyo is better on the ball
Tottenham clearly wants to build out of the back and to do that you need good passing center-halves. Tosin Adaradioyo is a better passer than is Joachim Andersen. While Andersen has attempted and completed slightly more passes on the season than has Adaradioyo, Tosin is more accurate.

Tosin Adaradioyo has completed more than 1600 passes this season at a rate of 86.8%, which is higher than Andersen (83.4%) and Toby Alderweireld (83%), according to fbref.com. Tosin's passing is especially more effective on longer passes.

Tosin has the kind of passing Tottenham needs
On medium passes – 15-30 yards – Adaradioyo completed 94.1%, which is better than both Alderweireld (92.2) and Andersen (91.5). The better performance was even more apparent on long balls over 30 yards. Toby Alderweireld has completed 65.6% of 369 attempts, Andersen completed 69% of 568 attempts, and Tosin has completed 73% of 426 attempts.

While Adaradioyo is not attempting as many downfield balls as Andersen he is offering more than Toby and at a much higher rate of success than either of the other players.

Given the kind of team, Tottenham wants to build having defenders who are strong passers is a must, and Tosin fits that bill. Additionally, Adaradioyo might be a better defender than Andersen too.

Tosin, Solid defensive performer
Yes, we need defenders that can pass but ultimately Tottenham also needs defenders that can defend. Tosin Adaradioyo can definitely do that and in some ways better than Joachin Andersen. Simply from a team perspective, Fulham had a positive net expected goals of 0.14 when Tosin was on the field and a negative net expected goals of 0.95 when Andersen was on the field.

Of course, these two played together a ton but when it was Adaradioyo and not Andersen on the pitch, Fulham was better. Team defense is not the reason Tottenham should consider Tosin, however, it is how he defends.

While not quite as effective in the air, winning approximately 70% versus 76%, Tosin is actually a bigger defender than Joachin Anderson. At a year younger – 23, compared to Andersen's 24 – and in only his first year versus the competition at the top flight level, one has to think Adaradioyo will improve in this area as well.

Adaradioyo is aggressive but does not foul like Tottenham
Despite playing more than 100 minutes less on the season, Adaradioyo has as many tackles and more interceptions than Andersen and only 8 fewer clearances. More importantly, Tosin does not foul at nearly the rate Joachim does. On the season Andersen has committed 41 fouls compared to just 13 from Tosin Adarabioyo.

Knowing how Tottenham defends that ability to avoid fouling defensively is a skill Spurs desperately need. On a per 90 basis Andersen commits 1.33 fouls, Toby Alderweireld is nearly half that total at just .73 fouls. Tosin Adarabioyo is even better at just .44 fouls per 90 minutes.

So if not Tosin Adarabioyo, please just someone who does NOT commit even more fouls than the current Tottenham defense.

Cheaper and British, just what Tottenham needs
Maybe the best reason to look very seriously at Tosin Adarabioyo, if anyone in the Fulham defense, is that he fits the mold of what Tottenham is really looking for. Joachim Andersen is on loan at Fulham and is under contract with Lyon until 2024. Adarabioyo is under contract with Fulham – who may need the money – and that contract expires in 2023, a full season earlier.

Currently, Transfermarkt.com shows Andersen as being valued at around $16.5 million (£11.7 million). Certainly, it is an affordable transfer although Sky Sports was talking about Lyon wanting around £20 million on the deal.

Adaradioyo is even more affordable, however. Currently valued at $11 million (£7.8 million) and being part of Fulham potentially makes Tosin more obtainable at a reasonable fee.

In fact, Fulham only signed Adaradioyo last season for just $3 million from the Manchester City Academy, meaning even at less than £10 million on the deal it would be a significant profit for Fulham.

Finally, it is that Manchester City Academy experience that adds the final strawberry on top. Adaradioyo is British having played for England up until the U19 level. The fact that Tottenham could add a young, homegrown player to their team, opening up precious space for other foreign players makes this just too logical of a situation not to further investigate.

Ultimately, we have no idea which direction Tottenham will go in the transfer market as neither do they without a Director of Football or a permanent manager. Until then, we can do what we hope Tottenham is doing and scout around, we just need to dig a bit deeper than Sky Sports.



https://hotspurhq.com/2021/05/14/tottenham-chasing-wrong-fulham-defender/