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Sunday Fulham Stuff - 16/05/21...

Started by WhiteJC, May 15, 2021, 01:24:54 PM

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WhiteJC

Results



Saturday
Burnley
0-4
Leeds
Southampton
3-1
Fulham
Brighton
1-1
West Ham

WhiteJC

#1
Southampton 0-0 Fulham


Che Adams has scored nine Premier League goals this season - the last Scottish player to score more was Steven Fletcher in 2012-13 (11)

Ralph Hasenhuttl labelled Nathan Tella the "biggest talent" at Southampton's disposal after the striker scored his first senior goal in Saturday's 3-1 victory over relegated Fulham.

Tella took less than two minutes to double Southampton's lead after coming on as a second-half substitute as they registered back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time since December.

The 21-year-old, who has made only six Saints starts after overcoming a serious knee injury as a teenager, also set up the home side's third goal with a classy backheel to find Theo Walcott.

"He's the biggest talent we have at the moment. He had a bad injury and when I see him performing like he does at the moment, I enjoy watching it," Southampton boss Hasenhuttl told BBC Sport.

"Sometimes he sprints more in 20 minutes than others in 90 minutes. This is an important season for him and we have tried to give him game time."

Tella's face was a picture of joy after he steered home Kyle Walker-Peters' pinpoint low ball across the face of the penalty area to put the game beyond Fulham.

Hasenhuttl added: "It's a special moment for a young striker. He's got a smile on his face always, and this is what I really liked from him because he enjoys working for the team, he enjoys playing with us."

Che Adams had punished poor set-piece defending to sweep Saints ahead with an instinctive half-volley when the Cottagers allowed James Ward-Prowse's free-kick to bounce in the six-yard box.

Tella's strike to make it 2-0 was not the only milestone for a young player on show as Fulham teenager Fabio Carvalho drilled in off the crossbar to score on his first Premier League start.

But the 18-year-old's effort, Fulham's first goal from open play in more than seven and a half hours, could not prevent Scott Parker's side slipping to a seventh defeat in eight league games.

Southampton, who move up a place to 13th, sealed victory in the closing stages as Adams and Tella combined to set up Walcott, whose shot looped home via a slight deflection.

Adams on course for Euros
Ward-Prowse and Adams combined nicely for Southampton's opener and it is not inconceivable they could be lining up against each other at Wembley on 18 June when England and Scotland meet in the Euro 2020 group stages.

Adams has capped a season of top-flight improvement with a first Scotland call-up after switching allegiance from England and netted his first international goal in March's World Cup qualifier against the Faroe Islands.

His intuitive finish, crashing an unstoppable strike past Alphonse Areola when Ward-Prowse's wide free-kick dropped at his feet, bore the hallmark of a forward high in confidence, his nine goals this term more than doubling the four he managed in 2019-20, his first Premier League season.

But Adams' build-up play impressed too, as he set up a first-half chance for Takumi Minamino before playing a role in Walcott's late third, which took a nick off Cottagers defender Joe Bryan on its way in.

Tella's contributions - a cool finish to open his professional account and a skilful assist for Walcott - were also easy on the eye after he replaced a subdued Danny Ings, and the attacking depth Saints showed here will encourage a fanbase worried about the England striker's future, with his contract expiring next summer.

Hasenhuttl added: "It's not a coincidence that we've scored 10 goals in the last four home games. The subs today had a brilliant impact. This is what you need sometimes in a tight game."

More Saints sorrow for Fulham
Fulham have won only one of their 31 league visits to Southampton - back in 1935 - and it always seemed a 22nd defeat in that sorry sequence was on the way once Adams steered Saints ahead.

The Cottagers have only rescued two points from losing positions this season and only really showed any signs of rallying once they fell two behind at St Mary's.

A last-ditch Jack Stephens tackle thwarted Ivan Cavaleiro and Bryan whistled a shot just wide from 25 yards before Carvalho fired home Bobby Decordova-Reid's through ball via the crossbar.

It was Fulham's first goal from open play since Aleksandar Mitrovic's opener in the 3-1 defeat at Aston Villa at the beginning of April, with only a Josh Maja penalty at Arsenal to show in the four games since.

That they were still in the game owed plenty to Areola, who thwarted a Ward-Prowse free-kick and a Nathan Redmond strike, as well as saving from Tella late on, although Carvalho's contribution, neat and tidy in possession throughout, will offer hope as the Cottagers look to next season in the Championship.

"Fabio showed his quality today - he's young and he's come into this team because we've been in search of goals," Cottagers boss Scott Parker told BBC Sport.

"He's scored the goal and put in a very good performance. He was a massive bright spark today."

Saints skipper a set-piece standard-setter - the stats

    Southampton have netted three or more goals in consecutive Premier League games for the first time since December 2018 (vs Arsenal and Huddersfield).
    Fulham have only registered one win in 31 league visits to Southampton (D8 L22) and are winless in 10 top-flight visits to the Saints (D4 L6).
    All seven of James Ward-Prowse's Premier League assists this season have come from set-piece situations, with the Saints captain providing more such assists than any other player.
    Fabio Carvalho (18 years 258 days) became Fulham's third youngest goalscorer in the Premier League behind only Ryan Sessegnon (18y 155d) and Collins John (18y 176d).
    Southampton's Nathan Tella, who scored his first senior goal in his 21st appearance, found the net just 98 seconds after coming on as a substitute.

What's next?

Southampton host Leeds in the Premier League on Tuesday (18:00 BST), while Fulham visit second-placed Manchester United at the same time that evening.




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

WhiteJC

#2
Parker's Post-Saints press conference


Scott Parker conceded defeat in Southampton with areas of the performance surmising the season as a whole.

"Today was a snapshot of our season," he admitted. "At times we played well, but the two goals were disappointing. The first and second goals were disappointing in terms of defensive habits.

"We got ourselves back into the game at 2-1. After that goal we had an ascendancy about us and had some half chances."

The main plus point to take from St. Mary's was the first Premier League start and goal for 18-year-old Fabio Carvalho.

Parker was quick to praise the teenager, stating his positive impact in training.

"Fabio didn't surprise me," he said. "He's in the team because we're searching for goals and something different to put the ball in the net. He stepped into the side and showed he can do that.

"He's been scoring goals at U23 level and he's shown it in training. He deserved it. I'm delighted for Fab, he was a shining light today, that was a massive plus.

"He's someone you see who has quality and he's creative with opportunities. He brings energy, he's got a big future here and we look forward to seeing him more often."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/may/Parker-s-Post-Saints-press conference/


WhiteJC

Bailly and McTominay out: Manchester United predicted XI v Fulham

Manchester United suffered a 4-2 defeat against Liverpool at Old Trafford on Thursday night. It came as a second consecutive Premier League loss.

Up next is Fulham who have recently been relegated to the Championship. The biggest positive for us going into the game is that there will be fans back at Old Trafford for the match.

The team is likely to see changes after losing last time out against Liverpool, with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keen to give opportunities to players who want to be in contention for the Europa League final against Villarreal.

Axel Tuanzebe is likely to replace Eric Bailly with Nemanja Matic stepping in for Scott McTominay. The latter didn't perform well against Liverpool and was subject to criticism from former club captain Roy Keane.

Manchester United XI v Fulham: Henderson; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Tuanzebe, Shaw; Matic, Pogba; Greenwood, Fernandes, Rashford; Cavani.

Fulham will be gutted saying goodbye to the Premier League.

Their fans were not able to enjoy the top flight due to COVID-19 restrictions throughout the season, but hopefully next season everyone will be back cheering on their team.



https://strettynews.com/2021/05/15/bailly-and-mctominay-out-manchester-united-predicted-xi-v-fulham/

WhiteJC

Manchester United fans back in Old Trafford on Tuesday night

It's been a while since most of us were in Old Trafford, but the hole in the roof remains. At least fans will be finally allowed back inside the ground for Tuesday's Premier League 6pm clash with newly relegated Fulham.

It's a good job our away record has been brilliant this season because Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has tried to put poor results at home down to playing in a fan-less stadium, at times this season.

We've no doubt the absence of fans is playing a huge part in games that lack intensity and there's been many of those.

The one game that always springs to mind is the draw against Chelsea at the beginning of the season. Imagine the Stretford End being full in the final 10 minutes or so?

We're happy with the news that 10,000 supporters will be allowed to attend Tuesday's game, despite recent anti-Glazer protests.

"The decision to allow 10,000 fans into the ground for Tuesday's game against Fulham was reviewed on Friday following anti-Glazer demonstrations," The Mail reports.

"What had been considered a formality following the Government's decision to ease lockdown restrictions was thrown into doubt by Tuesday'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.

"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."

Imagine the backlash had the club turned around and said no fans were allowed in after the anti-Glazer protests.

Ha!

The fans will finally get to appalled the players, manager and staff for all their work and dedication this past year. It will also be a send off before the Europa League final against Villarreal.



https://strettynews.com/2021/05/15/manchester-united-fans-back-in-old-trafford-on-tuesday-night/

WhiteJC

Southampton prepare transfer move for Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Southampton have expressed interest in signing Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek this summer, according to reports. Loftus-Cheek, 25, has spent the majority of the 2020-21 campaign on loan at Fulham, who were relegated from the Premier League last week.

The England international also spent a season on loan at Crystal Palace three years ago, as he continues to struggle to break into the Chelsea first team.

Loftus-Cheek has played 82 matches for the Blues since making his first-team debut in December 2014, but could be set for another loan spell away from Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

He will not stay at Fulham in the Championship but the Daily Express say Southampton are interested in securing his signature this summer.

It is claimed they want to sign Loftus-Cheek on a season-long loan, with the chance to make the deal permanent in 12 months' time.

Chelsea are yet to make a decision over Loftus-Cheek's future but manager Thomas Tuchel recently praised the midfielder and likened him to legendary footballer Michael Ballack.

'I was quite a fan of him when he was even younger,' Blues boss Tuchel said last month. '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.'



Read more: https://metro.co.uk/2021/05/15/transfer-news-southampton-prepare-offer-chelsea-midfielder-ruben-loftus-cheek-14587390/?ito=newsnow-feed?ito=cbshare

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MetroUK | Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetroUK/


WhiteJC

Tottenham Hotspur 'handed boost in Joachim Andersen pursuit'

Tottenham Hotspur-linked defender Joachim Andersen is reportedly keen to remain in the Premier League next season.

The Denmark international was unable to save Fulham from relegation to the Championship, but he has made a positive impression in English football under Scott Parker.

Lyon are understood to be open to a sale should they receive a suitable offer, with Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal both thought to be eyeing a swoop for Andersen.

Now, the Evening Standard claims that Andersen is keen to seal a permanent move to a club in England's top flight this summer, with Spurs in particular hoping to bolster their defence.

The report adds that Lyon value the 24-year-old at £20m, while Arsenal could move for him as they eye replacements for David Luiz, who is supposedly set to leave the Emirates when his deal expires in the summer.

Andersen has featured from the first whistle on 29 occasions in the Premier League this summer, while he has scored two goals in 35 appearances for parent club Lyon.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/arsenal/transfer-talk/news/spurs-handed-boost-in-joachim-andersen-pursuit_447591.html?newsnow

WhiteJC

Under-18s report: Chelsea 0 Fulham 3

Our Under-18s were defeated on Saturday morning by Fulham who clinched the Under-18 South league title.

We visited Fulham just before Christmas but an own-goal in the first half gave our neighbours the upper hand. Joe Haigh found the net 16 minutes from time as we showed signs of recovery but Fulham's Oliver O'Neill got the winner one minute before the whistle to snatch the points.

Ahead of the first whistle we sat seventh on 36 points and a win would see us conclude our season in fifth place. Meanwhile, Fulham are in second place on 53 points, three behind league leaders Crystal Palace. With a significantly higher goal difference than Palace a win would see our visitors lift the league title.

The first half ended in Fulham's favour but that was far from the story of the opening 45 minutes of football. We started well and looked bright up until and after we conceded, but struggled to turn our possession into chances as the visitors were happy with their lead.

A half-time team talk from Ed brand saw the team return to the field full of energy and register a host of chances, getting closer to a goal each time. While we attacked Fulham waited for the opportunity to counter and were clinical on the two occasions they managed to breach our back line.

Fulham's three-goal lead clinched them the league title and we finished the season in seventh place on 36 points.

Starting XI
Ed Brand named a strong Under-18 side to take on Fulham this morning. In came Lucas Bergstrom, Lewis Bate, Harvey Vale and Myles Peart-Harris, all who have played the majority of their football with the development squad of late. On the bench Prince Adegoke and Aleksi Heino returned to the match day squad.

First move Fulham
Conditions at Cobham were overcast as there was a lot at stake for visitors Fulham, we started well and Harvey Vale dragged the first attempt of the game wide of the target from range.

Fulham grew into the game soon after and Charlie Wiggett and Alfie Gilchrist were both required to throw their bodies on the line to keep Lucas Bergstrom out of harm's way for as long as possible, until the away side eventually found the net.

A cross from the right was palmed away by Bergstrom but only into the path of Jay Stansfield in the centre. The forward was forced wide by the keeper but tucked the ball away at the angle for the first goal of the game.

Fulham's net remained untested and Brand opted for a change in formation to try and get us back into the game. Dion Rankine moved into a more offensive position with Vale now occupying left wing-back. Myles Peart-Harris played furthest forward.

As we approached the break possession was in our favour but the score line and game weren't. With their advantage, Fulham were happy to defend their one-goal lead and stamp out any Chelsea attacks before they reached the halfway line. 0-1 Fulham at the interval.

Change in the second half
After the break we made the first change of the game. Luke Badley-Morgan was replaced by Charlie Webster and he was straight into the thick of the action. A more forward-thinking Blues won a corner-kick which Webster took. Haigh flicked it on at the near post but it was a little too high to hit the target.

However there was danger when the visitors caught us on the counter with a few too many men forward. A low cross into the centre was fired on to the bar from close range. It was a chance Fulham should have scored.

Closer with every chance
The change made a difference, we looked dangerous in attack with Peart-Harris, Vale and Lewis Bate all testing Alex Borto. Bergstrom remained alert to any danger though, making a good stop with his left foot from a rapid Fulham counter-attack.

It was all Chelsea and our best chance came just before the hour. When Josh Brooking raced forward on the right, it seemed as though Fulham the defenders made way for the wing-back. The ball eventually dropped for Haigh but flying save from Borto denied us a goal.

Counter-attacks count
Again Fulham soaked up the pressure and hit us on the counter and again it was another unbelievable opportunity missed. Played in by Mika Biereth, Ollie O'Neill found himself with just Bergstrom to beat. Unselfishly he cut it back for the players in the middle and it was goalscorer Stansfield who eventually had the shot which cleared the netting behind the goal.

With the previous attack, the theme of the game changed and Fulham were in the hunt for some breathing space which they soon found. Biereth raced on to the end of a long ball forward behind our defence and finished coolly for his team's second of the afternoon.

Their third came seven minutes later and it was substitute Luke Harris who hit home a cross from the right after the visitors stole possession off the Blues high up the pitch. It was a disappointing end to our season and the game ended in Fulham's favour 0-3.



Chelsea Lucas Bergstrom; Alfie Gilchrist, Charlie Wiggett (Josh Tobin 82), Bahsir Luke Badley-Morgan (Charlie Webster 46); Josh Brooking, Bashir Humphreys, Lewis Bate (c), Dion Rankine; Joe Haigh, Myles Peart-Harris (Aleksi Heino 82), Harvey Vale
Unused subs Derrick Abu, Prince Adegoke
Booked Wiggett 69; Gilchrist 71; Tobin, 90, Brooking 90

Fulham Alex Borto, Stefan Parkes, Ibane Bowat, Luci D'Auria-Henry, Idris Odutayo, Matt Dibley-Dias, Ollie O'Neill, Jay Stansfield, Adrion Pajaziti (c), Mika Biereth, Kieron Bowie
Subs Ben Roberts, Jay Williams, Olly Sanderson, Luke Harris, Imani Lanquedoc
Booked Biereth 68
Scorers Stansfield 21; Biereth 67 Harris 73



https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/2021/05/15/under-18s-report--chelsea-fulham?cardIndex=0-6

WhiteJC

Fulham U18s clinch consecutive titles

Fulham's under 18s secured back-to-back Premier League south titles with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Chelsea this morning. Steve Wigley's youngsters ended a thrilling battle with Crystal Palace by claiming the championship on goal difference after goals from Jay Stansfield, Mika Biereth and Luke Harris saw the young Whites claim the local bragging rights in fine style.

Young striker Stansfield, who has seen his season interrupted by a troublesome ankle injury, settled any nerves at Cobham by firing into the roof of the net from an acute angle after Biereth had helped on Adrion Pajaziti's header. The visitors then soaked up a spell of prolonged Chelsea pressure before strikes from distance by the impressive Ollie O'Neill and Pajaziti ensured that Fulham ended the half on the front foot.

Joe Haigh came close to levelling matters just after the break but Fulham responded with some fluent football of their own and Pajaziti hammered an effort against the woodwork from twelve yards out after excellent work from Biereth. Kieron Bowie's near post drive was kept out by Lucas Bergstrom, before Chelsea ramped up the pressure again and Alex Borto produced an excellent save from Haigh to preserve Fulham's lead.

Biereth almost fashioned a second for the away side after some more silky skills took him away from a couple of Chelsea tacklers. His cross was smuggled away from the onrushing Pajaziti but the clearance fell kindly from Stansfield, who was disappointed not to hit the target. Fortunately, that miss was not to prove too costly. Biereth breezed through the middle of the Chelsea defence and kept his cool as he went through on goal, rolling home his 21st league goal of the campaign to give the young Whites real breathing space.

Any doubt about the destination of the title was extinguished when Biereth burst away on the break again and supplied a low cross for substitute Luke Harris to drive home at the near post. Winning back-to-back league titles in such an impressive manner speaks volumes about the quality of Fulham's academy under Huw Jennings and several of these young starlets should stand a great chance of progressing into the senior set-up when the Championship campaign gets underway in August.

FULHAM UNDER 18s (4-3-3): Borto; D'Auria-Henry, Parkes (Williams 83), Bowat, Odutayo; Dibley-Dias, O'Neill, Pajaziti; Bowie (Harris 62), Biereth, Stansfield (Lanquedoc 76). Subs (not used): Trialist, Sanderson.

GOALS: Stansfield (21), Biereth (66), Harris (73).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/05/fulham-u18s-clinch-consecutive-titles/


WhiteJC

U18s Crowned Champions! 🏆


Fulham have been crowned Under-18s Premier League South Champions.

Their 3-0 win over Chelsea on Saturday was enough to give Steve Wigley's side their second successive league title.

The young Whites have been emphatic this season, winning 18 games, drawing two and losing just four.

Despite finishing level on points with South London side Crystal Palace, Fulham's far superior goal difference (+53) separates the two clubs.

Our 18s will face Manchester City in the National Final, with the winner being entered into the 2021/22 UEFA Youth League.

Everyone at Fulham Congratulates Steve Wigley, Ali Melloul, Vic Bettinelli and the rest of the coaching team on this incredible achievement.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/may/U18s-Crowned-Champions-/

WhiteJC

Youngster Carvalho scores but Fulham lose again

Relegated Fulham suffered another defeat but were given a lift by youngster Fabio Carvalho scoring on his full league debut.

Goals from Che Adams and Nathan Tella put their team in control before Carvahlo, 18, pulled one back for the visitors.

Theo Walcott's late shot deflected in off Joe Bryan to seal Southampton's win.

Adams opened the scoring by getting in front of Ola Aina to meet James Ward-Prowse's free-kick on the half-volley.

Tella doubled the Saints' lead after being found by Kyle Walker-Peters' cross.

Fulham were second best but threatened a comeback when Carvalho collected Bobby Decordova-Reid's pass and fired in off the underside of the bar.

But Southampton's two-goal cushion was restored when Walcott was teed up by Tella's back-heel and his strike from the edge of the penalty area was helped in by Bryan's attempted block.


Fulham: Areola, Tete, Andersen, Adarabioyo, Aina (Bryan 62), Anguissa (Lookman 76), Reed, Cavaleiro, Onomah (Maja 76), Carvalho, Decordova-Reid.
Subs not used: Hector, Odoi, Mitrovic, Rodak, Ream, Loftus-Cheek.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/youngster-carvalho-scores-but-fulham-lose-again

WhiteJC

Saints pile on the agony

If Scott Parker was seeking some solace on the south coast after Fulham succumbed to relegation earlier this week, it didn't arrive at St. Mary's. Southampton swept to a comfortable victory – their margin established by Che Adams' first half strike and a first Saints goal for Nathan Tella seconds after coming off the bench – that emphasised the size of the rebuild required in west London this summer as the Championship beckons. Even the silver lining of a first senior goal for talented teenager Fabio Carvalho, which briefly threatened an unlucky comeback, was swiftly followed by a strike from substitute Theo Walcott to put clear water between the sides once again.

Parker's caustic comments following relegation – and his assertion in a pre-match press conference that he had yet to speak with the club's ownership – suggested that his own future is still to be resolved. Fulham have plenty of business to take care of behind the scenes, but the absence of a genuine striker from the start, with Aleksandar Mitrovic and Josh Maja left on the bench, meant this side had an experimental look. In truth, with both sides have little to play for, this resembled a low-key pre-season friendly – and there was very little quality in front of goal in a turgid first half.

Referee Craig Pawson seemed to enter into the charitable spirit, ignoring a succession of hefty tackles before eventually cautioning Joachim Andersen for a clumsy foul near to the by-line on Stuart Armstrong. That allowed James Ward-Prowse to whip in one of his dangerous set pieces and Fulham's defending from the free-kick was shambolic. Adams didn't need to do anything special to lose Ola Aina, who had one of his poorest games in a Fulham shirt, and sweep a half volley into the net from six yards out.

Ward-Prowse was then denied a trademark free-kick goal, with Alphonse Areola making a magnificent save and, right at the end of the half, Danny Ings almost doubled Saints' lead. The forward latched onto a precise pass from Takumi Minamino, kept his feet to round the goalkeeper but his cross-cum-shot was headed clear by Joachim Andersen. Fulham's brightest moments came from Carvalho, whose energy around the penalty area kept the home defence occupied, but his shot after a clever backheel from Ivan Cavaleiro lacked the power necessary to beat Alex McCarthy.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Fulham saw plenty of possession, but as so often during this campaign, couldn't find enough penetration in the final third. Ralph Hassenhuttl's side didn't have that problem and might have been further in front shortly after the interval only for Areola to deny Nathan Redmond after the winger had cut in dangerously from the left flank. You felt a second goal wasn't long in coming and it arrived after a slick move that followed Bobby Decordova-Reid giving the ball away and saw a purposeful run from Armstrong find Kyle Walker-Peters down the right and the full-back's low cross put a simple finish on a plate for the recently introduced Tella.

A few brave blocks prevented Fulham from getting a foothold in the contest. Decordova-Reid produced a gorgeous pass to unlock the Southampton defence only for Jack Stephens to deny Cavaleiro and Salisu arrived just in the nick of time to close down Decordova-Reid when he went through on goal. Joe Bryan drilled an effort wide from long range, but Fulham's likeliest source of goal still looked like Carvalho, who had been switched to a number ten role in the second period.

The Lisbon-born England youth international had sparkled on a couple of senior substitute appearances earlier in the season after stellar displays for Fulham's under 18 and under 23 sides and he lit up his first Premier League start with a smartly taken goal in the 75th minute. Having began the move around the halfway line, Carvalho surged away from Stevens to reach Decordova-Reid's through ball and fired high into the net. Having scored on his debut for Fulham's under 16s, under 18s and under 23s, perhaps we should have expected this precocious talent to find a way to mark this auspicious occasion, but it was still a special moment.

Any hope of a stirring comeback quickly evaporated when Walcott grabbed a third with eight minutes left. It was too easy for Southampton to play through the remnants of the away side's defence – Armstrong's probing ball brought the lively Tella into play and the youngster unselfishly laid it off from a shooting position for Walcott, with an untimely deflection off the unfortunate Bryan leaving Areola with no chance. Carvalho's cameo might have been pleasing but there can be no getting away from the fact that Fulham have exited the top flight with a whimper at odds with all their fighting talk.

SOUTHAMPTON (4-4-2): McCarthy; Walker-Peters, Salisu, Stephens, Vestergaard; Ward-Prowse, Armstrong (Diallo 78), Minamino (Walcott 76), Redmond; Ings (Tella 58), Adams. Subs (not used): Forster, Ferry, Ramsay, Djenepo, Obafemi, N'Lundulu.

GOALS: Adams (27), Tella (60), Walcott (82).

FULHAM (3-4-2-1): Areola; Tete, Andersen, Adarabioyo; Decordova-Reid, Cavaleiro, Aina (Bryan 62), Reed; Anguissa (Lookman 63), Onomah; Carvalho. Subs (not used): Rodak, Hector, Odoi, Ream, Loftus-Cheek, Mitrovic.

BOOKED: Andersen.

GOAL: Carvalho (75).

REFEREE: Craig Pawson (South Yorkshire)

VIDEO ASSISTANT REFEREE: David Coote (Nottinghamshire).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/05/saints-pile-on-the-agony/


WhiteJC

Parker hails 'fantastic' star providing what Fulham have been 'in need of' all year

Fulham manager Scott Parker hailed the display of a "fantastic" full debutant who provided something the club have lacked all season.

Fulham suffered their 19th defeat of the season after going down 3-1 to Southampton at St. Mary's. The visitors went behind early after Che Adams reacted quickest to slash home James Ward-Prowse's free-kick.

Young Saint Nathan Tella then bagged his maiden senior goal, but 18-year-old Fulham forward Fabio Carvalho was not to be outdone.

On his first start in the Premier League, the tricky forward showed what Fulham fans can expect for years to come.

The Portuguese-born English citizen blasted home his first top flight strike off the underside of the crossbar, though it was not enough to prevent the inevitable as Southampton emerged victorious after Theo Walcott rounded out the scoring.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Parker said: "Pride, effort, some good bits.

"At 2-0 down we got ourselves back in the game with a lovely goal from Fabio. We just lacked that little bit in the end.

"[Southampton's first was a] poor goal to concede. It looked like we missed a header and then there was confusion.

"The second goal, we defended very poorly and didn't follow runners. After that we got ourselves in the game but it wasn't enough.

"[Fabio Carvalho was] fantastic. This team has been in need of goals. His overall performance was full of confidence. He showed his quality."



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/parker-hails-fantastic-carvalho-fulham-reaction

WhiteJC

Tottenham Hotspur: Sky Sports back reports of Spurs eyeing Joachim Andersen

Backing reports of Tottenham Hotspur eyeing Lyon defender Joachim Andersen, Sky Sports (via Football Daily) have now shared their update on the situation with an enticing piece of news.

Numerous claims have come out over the past week detailing Tottenham's interest in Andersen, who is currently playing on loan at Fulham in the Premier League.

Indeed, reliable sources like Mike McGrath have indicated that Spurs are in 'pole position' to land the 24-year-old as they search for defensive options to bolster their shaky backline (The Telegraph).

Meanwhile, football.london correspondent Alasdair Gold also reiterated Tottenham's fondness for the defender, who he described as a player who "Spurs like a lot".

Sky Sports have since come out with their own breaking update on the situation, and their sources also believe that the 1.92m (6 foot 3) powerhouse is indeed a firm target for Spurs.

"Some transfer news just in to us and this will interest Tottenham fans," they explained (via Football Daily).

"It will also interest Fulham fans, although, not positive for Fulham. We're told that Tottenham are keen to sign Joachim Andersen this summer, he's currently at Fulham but only on loan, on loan from Lyon.

"He's a Denmark international, he's done really well for Scott Parker's side this season, but their relegation means he may not end up at Craven Cottage.

"Tottenham are keen to sign him and we're told he's valued at around £20 million".

The Verdict: Great news for Spurs fans...

Andersen has been a shining light in an otherwise disappointing first full season back in the Premier League for Fulham.

Indeed, the 24-year-old has averaged the joint-fourth most clearances in the English top flight over 2020/21 and wins the most offsides per game out of every regular player in the Cottagers' squad (WhoScored).

At just £20m, he could be an absolute steal for Spurs, and it appears that their interest is genuine given these reports from multiple reliable outlets.

Therefore, we won't be surprised if Andersen does become a Tottenham player this summer, and his form this season suggests that he could be a fine addition if he moves to north London.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/tottenham-hotspur-news/tottenham-hotspur-sky-sports-back-reports-of-spurs-eyeing-joachim-andersen/

WhiteJC

Verdict: Parker's cautious tactics continue – but Carvalho offers Fulham hope for future

Fabio Carvalho became the third-youngest scorer for Fulham in the top flight, although it didn't prevent a 19th defeat for the relegated Whites.

The teenager and his team succumbed 3-1 to Southampton, but the one ray of sunshine was the Portugal-born player.

Even so, Fulham looked like they were playing for a draw.

In fact, a deader rubber would be hard to imagine, but still Scott Parker's mindset was to pick a team with no recognised striker.

Carvalho, on full league debut, was given the nod as the central man up top, but 18-years-old and 69kgs dripping wet  didn't suggest much of a thrust.

However, his great run and rising shot from Bobby Decordova-Reid's smart pass was as good as anything else in a losing season that reduced the arrears to 2-1.

It offered fleeting hope, with Carvalho lively and the shape of good things to come.

He didn't look out of place with the big boys, and there was the odd moment of tracking back, wriggling free, and a couple of driving runs, not to mention a goal, that suggests he can do more than a decent job in the Championship.

If Mario Lemina does indeed return to Southampton and Andre-Frank Anguissa moves on, Carvalho is a shoo-in for a regular slot next season, surely.

But the perennial problem of more than one goal was ever present.

Joachim Andersen's near-post glancing header on 24 minutes found no one on the end.

Just three minutes later, Che Adams got his foot ahead of a slack Ola Aina who should have been goal side of his man.

It was an opportunistic goal, the sort Fulham don't score, served up with a dollop of average defending.

Decordova-Reid is the Whites' leading scorer. Indeed, he's the Premier League's lowest top-scorer, with five – and nothing since West Brom in January.

His hopeless swipe in front of goal that missed by a mile early on was offside, which was just as well.

But he did have a hand in two goals – including the Saints' second, unfortunately.

He could see Kyle Walker-Peters outside him on the left and still got sucked in to the centre, but slightly behind the defensive line.

It left the Saints man all the time in the world to centre to an onside Nathan Tella to sweep home.

Parker has frequently praised Decordova-Reid's defensive efforts this term. Yes, he really has, and not a hint of a tongue-in-cheek.

You can also read into Ademola Lookman, Josh Maja, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Aleksandar Mitrovic on the bench as either done with Fulham, or it's a chance for Josh Onomah and Carvalho to stake a claim.

A bit of each is more like.

Apart from the undroppable Andersen and Alphonse Areola, the under-par Aina was the only other loan player to start.

Parker clearly has clearly got one eye on the future.

In a nutshell, this was the sort of game that does nothing for anyone's CV. Apart from Carvalho's.




https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/verdict-parkers-cautious-tactics-continue-but-carvalho-offers-fulham-hope-for-future


WhiteJC

Southampton cruise past sunken Fulham

Nathan Tella scored his first goal for Southampton in their win over already-relegated Fulham in the Premier League.

The 21-year-old came off the bench to net Saints' second while Fulham's consolation came from 18-year-old Fabio Carvalho, his maiden goal for the Cottagers.

FULL MATCH DETAILS

Southampton took the lead in the first half when Che Adams scored from a James Ward-Prowse free-kick.

Tella then slotted home a second moments after coming onto the field on the hour mark.

Just as Southampton looked to be cruising towards all three points Carvalho pulled one back for Fulham with a well-struck shot off the underside of the bar.

Less than 10 minutes later, however, substitute Theo Walcott restored Saints' two-goal advantage with a clinical finish.

With Fulham's fate already sealed for the season, boss Scott Parker decided to give some of the players who had not featured significantly this season a chance, including a maiden senior start for teenager Carvalho.

However, despite the pressure being off the Cottagers, many of the same problems remained, especially the issues in the final third – they only managed three shots on target during the match.

Joachim Andersen was called into action in the 16th minute, to clear the ball away from close to the goal line to prevent Liverpool loanee Takumi Minamino tapping in the opener.

After a scrappy opening period, Southampton took the lead with the first shot on target of the match when Adams fired home from a James Ward-Prowse free-kick.

Carvalho had the chance to level the scores when he fed by Ivan Cavaleiro but he was unable to get power on the shot which was straight at Alex McCarthy.

Early in the second half, Oriol Romeu forced Alphonse Areola into a diving save with his legs to prevent the home side doubling their advantage.

Moments later Southampton found their second, substitute Tella tapping the ball into the net just minutes after coming onto the field.

Stuart Armstrong drove forward before finding Walker-Peters who played in the final ball for the youngster to score his first Southampton goal.

Not to be outdone by Tella's first goal, Fulham teenager Carvalho pulled one back for Parker's side in the 75th minute.

The teenager timed his run behind the backline, before being played in by Bobby Decordova-Reid and firing the ball in off the underside of the crossbar.

However, a goal from Walcott soon restored Southampton's two-goal lead, with his deflected shot going past Areola, with Tella turning provider for his fellow substitute.



https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2021/0515/1221791-saints-cruise-past-sunken-cottagers/

WhiteJC

Fulham to face Man City for Under-18 PL title

Win at Chelsea makes Fulham champions of the South group and they will take on North winners in final

Fulham secured the Under-18 Premier League South title after claiming a 3-0 win at Chelsea on Saturday.

Goals from Jay Stansfield, Mika Biereth and Luke Harris, pictured above, meant Steve Wigley's side finished above Crystal Palace on goal difference for back-to-back titles.

Fulham will now face Manchester City, who won the North group, in the national final to decide the 2020/21 Under-18 Premier League champions.

City are aiming for an unprecedented treble of being champions of the Premier League, Premier League 2 and the Under-18 Premier League.

The winner of the national final will also qualify for the 2021/22 UEFA Youth League.




https://www.premierleague.com/news/2143536

WhiteJC

Man United to allow 10,000 fans to attend the Fulham game despite anti-Glazer protests

Manchester United to allow 10,000 fans to attend the Fulham game

According to news from Daily Mail, Manchester United will go ahead with the plans to allow 10,000 fans to attend the Fulham game despite the ongoing anti-Glazer protests.

The report claims that the club reviewed the decision to allow the fans to attend the game but arrived at a positive conclusion.

Manchester United fans are up in arms against the Glazers

Though the decision to allow the fans was a formality earlier, the recent agitation surrounding Old Trafford led the club to review their decision.

The last time fans were in attendance was in March last year. It's been 14 months now since the fans cheered for the team at Old Trafford.

Given the recent events that have unfolded, it's safe to say the decision is a brave one by the club. Though the protests are justified, it's not without consequences. A couple of fans were arrested ahead of our 4-2 loss to Liverpool.

Manchester United fans have come out in force against the Glazers

In fact, Liverpool used a decoy team bus to reach Old Trafford in the first place. Hence, allowing an unhappy fan base to attend the game right now could have its consequences.

The protests, as long as they are conducted in an amicable way, will bear the fruits. However, if violence is the route taken by the protesters, then it would undo all the good work done to put pressure on the Glazers.

Let's hope the attendees of the Fulham game realise this and carry themselves accordingly.



https://weallfollowunited.com/2021/05/16/manchester-united-to-allow-10000-fans-to-attend-the-fulham-game/


WhiteJC

Three questions for Manchester United ahead of Fulham game

After a very rare weekend off, Manchester United are back in Premier League action on Tuesday night against Fulham.

For the first time since March 2020, fans will be allowed back inside Old Trafford.

That should see the anti-Glazer protests continue as well as giving the players a boost with the fans behind them.

Fulham are already relegated and will return to the Championship after just one season in the top flight.

That means Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should oversee three points in this one but here is a look at three decisions for him to consider ahead of the game...

How to break the mini-slump

United have now lost three of their last four games.

There are mitigating circumstances, but that's a poor run for a club of United's expectations an ambitions at any time.

The defeat in Rome 'didn't matter' because United got through to the Europa League final regardless, but it was an awful performance has sparked a loss of momentum.

Solskjaer will hope that a weekend off to rest and recover after a gruelling schedule is all his side needs.

But there has to be more authority, intensity and confidence in the performances.

United need to arrive in Gdansk full of confidence and on a decent run of form. That starts with three points here.

Any room for sentiment?

This is United's final home game of the season.

That means it'll be the last chance for some players to play at Old Trafford.

Sergio Romero is surely set to exit this summer, and a send-off in front of fans would be a good way to sign off for a player who never let United down.

Juan Mata could perhaps be in a similar position. But is Solskjaer thinking down those lines?

Perhaps if United had been flying going into this game and second was sealed already, he might have been more likely to go down that route.

Rest the top stars?

Does Solskjaer take the chance to give his best players an extended rest before the Europa League final?

That's what Jose Mourinho did in the lead up to the 2017 showpiece, making changes for United's two final matches of the season, against Southampton and Crystal Palace.

It paid dividends, as United won 2-0 in Stockholm.

The situation was slightly different as United were languishing in sixth place regardless of what they did late on in the season.

United could seal second with a win here. So maybe Solskjaer will play his best team here, get the job done and then make changes at Wolves on the final day of the season.



https://www.unitedinfocus.com/match-coverage/three-questions-for-manchester-united-ahead-of-fulham-game/

WhiteJC

Fulham defence offers appeal for Man United and Newcastle attackers

Southampton 3-1 Fulham

    Goals: Che Adams (£5.7m), Nathan Tella (£4.3m), Theo Walcott (£5.8m) | Fabio Carvalho (£4.5m)
    Assists: James Ward-Prowse (£5.9m), Kyle Walker-Peters (£4.7m), Tella | Bobby De Cordova-Reid (£5.3m)
    Bonus points: Adams x3, Tella x2, Ward-Prowse x1

FUL OF IT

Owners of Manchester United assets, and even those targetting Newcastle attackers, will take encouragement from Fulham's latest defeat.

In conceding three goals at Southampton, the Cottagers highlighted themselves as late-season "whipping boys" after spending much of the winter months and early 2021 as a difficult-to-beat side.

Between Gameweeks 23 and 32, Scott Parker's men conceded a total of 12 goals in as many matches (one per game).

During that period they put up five clean sheets, the second-most in the league, behind only Chelsea (six).

However, each of their last three outings have seen Fulham give up at least two goals, conceding seven goals in the process (2.3 per game).

OH DANNY BOY

Danny Ings' (£8.4m) two-goal return to the team against Crystal Palace proved to be something of a false dawn in the context of Blank Gameweek 36.

Against Fulham, he did make his second successive Premier League start since recovering from another muscle injury but could not make it to the hour.

Ralph Hasenhüttl replaced Ings with Nathan Tella (£4.3m) in the 58th minute in a substitution he explained was under orders from the club physio, something any interested Fantasy managers should probably be wary of.

    "I only did what my head of physio asked me to do. He said 60 minutes, maximum. And I am a good follower, a good listening." – Ralph Hasenhüttl

While Ings remains Saints' top goalscorer across his last six matches (four), Che Adams (£5.7m) has shown decent consistency across the last two.

His two goals and one assist, as well as a total of five bonus, made for 20 points during that period, working out at 10 per match.

Meanwhile, Tella finally delivered on his recent promise to score his first Premier League goal 98 seconds after replacing Ings.

Classified as a midfielder in FPL, Tella is seen as nothing other than a striker by his manager.

    "It's time he scored his first goal. the way he works he deserves it. I am very happy for his assist and he deserves it. [Tella] is now on the scorers' list in the Premier League. It will always be there. This is great for a striker. The smile on the face, it's always there. He is a very big talent and he is a signal to the other players that there is a chance to go through." – Ralph Hasenhüttl

Meanwhile, there were some rare changes to the defence for Hasenhüttl's men in light of Jan Bednarek's (£4.7m) enforced absence.

After a string of appearances covering the injured Ryan Bertrand (£5.0m) at left-back since Gameweek 34, Jack Stephens (£4.6m) tucked into a centre-back role alongside Jannik Vestergaard (£4.7m) with Mohammed Salisu (£4.3m) operating at full-back.

Southampton XI: A McCarthy; Salisu, J Stephens, Vestergaard, Walker-Peters; Minamino (Walcott 76′), Armstrong (I Diallo 78′), Ward-Prowse, Redmond; Ings (Tella 58′), Adams.

Fulham XI: Areola; Adarabioyo, Andersen, Tete; De Cordova-Reid, Aina (J Bryan 62′), Reed, Cavaleiro; Anguissa (Lookman 63′), Onomah (Maja 76′); Carvalho.



https://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2021/05/16/fulham-defence-offers-appeal-for-man-united-and-newcastle-attackers/