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Sunday Fulham Stuff - 01/08/21...

Started by WhiteJC, August 01, 2021, 08:46:15 AM

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WhiteJC

What should Fulham fans expect from a Marco Silva side

This afternoon marks the Fulham faithful's first chance to see what Marco Silva is all about at close quarters. There's been plenty of discussion since the Portuguese head coach's appointment about his preferred systems and how they might dovetail with the resources at his disposal, but all the summer planning has taken place behind closed doors to date. A London derby with League One Charlton Athletic in front of fans at Craven Cottage will give us our first glimpse of Silva's new charges and an early indication of what to expect this season.

Since the confirmation that Silva would succeed Scott Parker in the Cottage hot seat, there's been the return of something approaching a feelgood factor – something only intensified by swift moves in the transfer market, which mark a departure from previous seasons. I have may be caught up in the frenzy myself, tipping the Whites to win the Championship, in the new football predictions game, Leagues Apart, a lockdown project from two Fulham fans.

There are solid grounds for optimism that go beyond blind faith though. Silva has previously led a side from the second tier into the top flight, when he revived the fortunes of Estoril in his first managerial job – and went on to guide them to European football. The attractive style Silva favours stands in stark contrast to the slow and slovenly football under Parker and, if he follows the blueprint implemented at his previous clubs, the new boss will demand high and frequent pressing, with a swift transition from defence to attack with vertical possession producing pacey attacks.

When he was with Watford, Silva switched between a 4-3-3 formation and the 4-2-3-1 depending on the opposition. He may well do something similar at Craven Cottage – especially given the volatility of the Championship – and the main point of difference will be how to deploy Fulham's key creative force. That won't be Tom Cairney for the first few weeks of the season at last, but it could yet be young Fabio Carvalho, who has seen plenty of game time during pre-season.

At Vicarage Road, Tom Cleverley was either deployed on the right of a midfield trio in a 4-3-3 and given license to float into the space ahead or as a traditional number ten. That afforded the Hornets more defensive durability and it was interesting that Silva selected Cleverly for such a role ahead of Roberto Pereira even though the Argentine was a far better passer. Cleverley got the nod because of his tigerish tackling and boundless energy, which suggests Harrison Reed could quickly become a Silva favourite.

The rest of his Watford midfield saw two box-to-box midfielders in the shape of Abdoulaye Doucoure and Ettiene Capoue paired together, with Nat Chalobah rotated into the starting line-up every so often. Silva's central midfielders were instructed to hit long passes, drive towards the area – both with and without the ball – and not be afraid to strike from distance. That attacking license was married with a commitment to winning the ball back and cover plenty of ground, allowing the more creative elements in the Watford side to come to the fore.

Silva's midfield set up at Goodison Park, after his acrimonious decamping to Merseyside, was modelled on the same principles. Idrissa Gueye and Morgan Schneiderlein were the shuttling central midfielders and you would assume that Fulham will operate with a double pivot that sits deep in possession before making late runs to support an attack out wide, with the number ten acting as the prompt for swift switches of play from flank to flank.

Up front, Silva's sides have regularly utilised a target man, whose disruptive qualities could afford create more room for the wide men to roam infield. Cenk Tosun would regularly drop deep to suck defenders higher up the pitch, creating the space for the likes of Richarlison and Theo Walcott to exploit effectively. A second plan saw Tosun making a succession of horizontal runs across the area, opening up space for the number ten – usually Gylfi Sigurdsson – to attack and making Tosun a considerable aerial threat from Walcott's crosses. That tactic appears tailor-made for Fulham, with Aleksandar Mitrovic an obvious target for the likes of Joe Bryan and Kenny Tete, and any attempt to nullify the Serbian striker might surrender space to the likes of Cairney, Wilson and maybe Bobby Decordova-Reid.

In common with a lot of modern sides, the full-backs became pivotal parts of Silva's system. In many ways, the Portuguese head coach was probably a few years ahead of his time. He wanted his full-backs to recycle the ball effectively between the centre-halves and midfield but also to be prepared to surge forward at any moment to inject energy into an attack. The likes of Bryan, Robinson and Tete are physically fit enough to cover the ground but that sense of adventure can easily prove to be their downfall, as happened with Silva's Everton side and to Slavisa Jokanovic at Fulham in the top flight. Once the fullbacks have bombed on, you become so much more susceptible to swift counterattacks.

Silva demands high intensity from his defensively-minded players, although the pressing techniques did vary from front to back. The 44 year-old is a fierce advocate of cutting out passing lanes or covering the 'shadow' of the opposition rather than swarming around the opponents' key men in a manner similar to Marcelo Bielsa at Leeds. Defending from the front is important to Silva with the number ten instructed to shut down the easiest route to central midfield whilst the wingers tuck into tighter positions to restrict the full-backs.

When the ball reaches the engine room, Silva's midfield will press far more aggressively, with one or two players harrying the individual on the ball. Asking wingers to lead a press protects central midfielders and those at the heart of the defence from being outnumbered. There is a further safeguard against that which sees a deep-lying midfielder drop into a makeshift back three to guard against a breakaway.

We have already discussed the fallibility of the fullbacks in such a bold Silva system. That caught up with Watford in a 8-0 humbling at the hands of Manchester City two years ago. He will be keen to tighten up at set plays after his old sides were targeted consistently from free-kicks and corners, something that Fulham's defenders have struggled with in recent seasons.

We will, of course, have to wait for the serious business to get underway but an attack spearheaded by a rejuvenated Mitrovic, who can be found by the creativity of the likes of Cairney, Carvalho and Wilson, seems mouthwatering. It looks as if Fulham will remain active in the transfer market until the closure of the window at Silva's behest, which could make the final squad that he has to select from fairly formidable.

If you are sufficiently enthused to follow in my footsteps and tip Fulham for Championship glory, then you can make your selections at Leagues Apart. That would also have the benefit of supporting fellow Fulham fans whilst enjoying weekly challenges and your own private league. HammyEnd readers can join the league set up specifically for them by entering the code LZURC61NO – and there are plenty of prizes up for grabs here.




https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/what-should-fulham-fans-expect-from-a-marco-silva-side/

WhiteJC

Fulham boss looking to offload at least one centre-back

Marco Silva says he needs to reduce the number of centre-halves at Fulham.

As it stands, he has six.

One of those, Terence Kongolo, is injured and unlikely to play any part in August, but the manager has made it plain five is still more than he needs.

Tosin impressed last season, while Michael Hector, Alfie Mawson, Tim Ream and Maxim Le Marchand are also currently part of the squad.

Silva said: "One of them has a bad injury – we are talking about Kongolo.  We (still) have five.

"I will take some decisions on that position, because I have to be honest with you, we have to keep four and not six."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-boss-looking-to-offload-at-least-one-centre-back

WhiteJC

Door opens for Bournemouth to move in for Fulham defender Michael Hector

Fulham want to offload one or two of their centre-backs in this transfer window, as per a report by West London Sport.

Fulham are keen to trim down on their size of their squad.

They currently have Terence Kongolo, Tosin Adarabioyo, Alfie Mawson, Tim Ream, Maxim Le Marchand and Michael Hector as their options in the centre of defence.

Hector, who is 28-years-old, has been linked with a move to AFC Bournemouth in this transfer window, as per journalist Darren Witcoop on Twitter (see tweet below).



Chance to swoop in now?

The fact that Fulham are open to getting rid of one or two of their centre-backs could pave the way for Bournemouth to swoop in for the Jamaica international.

Marco Silva has said: "One of them has a bad injury – we are talking about Kongolo.  We (still) have five. I will take some decisions on that position, because I have to be honest with you, we have to keep four and not six."

Hector has fallen down the pecking order at Craven Cottage and struggled for game time in the Premier League last season.

He knows new Bournemouth boss Scott Parker well and was part of his Fulham side who won promotion during his first year at the club.

Career to date

Hector started his career at Reading and went on to play 63 times for their first-team before he was snapped up by Chelsea in 2015.

He never made a senior appearance during his time at Stamford Bridge but got plenty of game time out on loan with the likes of Eintracht Frankfurt, Hull City and Sheffield Wednesday.

He could be on the move again this summer with Fulham eager to get rid of some defenders and Bournemouth have been linked over recent weeks.



https://the72.co.uk/243487/door-opens-for-bournemouth-to-move-in-for-fulham-defender-michael-hector/


WhiteJC

Muniz tests positive for COVID-19

Flamengo have confirmed that striker Rodrigo Muniz – who is poised to join Fulham next week – tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/muniz-tests-positive-for-covid-19/

WhiteJC

Stumbling block emerges in Fulham's transfer move for 20-year-old

Fulham's move for young striker Rodrigo Muniz could be severely delayed as Flamengo announced that he has contracted COVID-19.

The Brazilian club confirmed that the 20-year-old was tested yesterday and was confirmed to be a positive case, which may now mean a transfer to Craven Cottage could take a while longer.

According to journalist Vene Casagrande yesterday, a deal had been agreed between Flamengo and Fulham for the sale of Muniz, with the former's representatives meeting the player's agents in Lisbon to tie up loose ends.

Muniz was set to undergo the first part of his medical in Brazil, but it's unknown as to whether any of it has actually happened now that Muniz's positive test has emerged.

Casagrande of the O Dia publication reported that the fee Fulham are paying for the striker is €8 million in two separate instalments, however The Athletic's Peter Rutzler has revealed that he's not aware of any agreement between the two clubs in terms of a bid.

If a fee is still yet to be agreed, then this latest development could jeopardise the transfer altogether whilst it's determined if Muniz suffers from any symptoms of the virus.

The Verdict

A deal doesn't seem like it's dead, but this will now all depend on how Muniz comes out of the other side from his positive test.

It may turn out that the youngster has no symptoms and that he remains healthy and once he has gotten rid of the virus the deal can be closed – that's the best-case scenario for Fulham and the player.

There's conflicting reports from both England and Brazil now as to whether a deal has been agreed or not and because of this setback it may now take a few more weeks for anything to be concluded.

That won't suit Marco Silva as he will have wanted to add to his attacking options before the start of the Championship season, however he'll just have to get on with what he already has and hope the Muniz deal gets done soon.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/road-block-emerges-in-fulhams-transfer-move-for-20-year-old/

WhiteJC

'Don't think it's the best fit' – Fulham enter transfer race for 24-year-old forward: The verdict

This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more

Fulham are among a host of sides interested in signing Peterborough United forward Siriki Dembele, according to The Sun.


Dembele was a standout performer for Posh last season, scoring 11 goals in League One as they won promotion to the Championship.

But with a year left on his contract, Fulham, Stoke and Bournemouth are all said to be interested in signing the 24-year-old.

The Sun claim that whilst Posh are set to demand £4million for Dembele's signature, the three clubs are only willing to pay £2.5million.

Here, we discuss whether he would be a good signing for Fulham...

Chris Gallagher

This would be a good signing for Fulham.

There are obviously doubts about whether Dembele can handle the step up to the Championship because he hasn't played at this level but anyone who has seen him play in the past 12 months would back him to make an impact. In terms of his qualities, his intelligence at finding space and technical ability should ensure he does well in a Marco Silva side that will surely play on the front foot.

So, providing the fee is reasonable, then this is a move that could work out for the Cottagers. Whilst they have a very good squad for Championship level, a few additions are needed and they need another spark in the final third, which Dembele could provide.

He would face a battle to get into the XI on a regular basis but playing with better players could take the attacking midfielder's game up a level.

Jacob Potter

I'm not convinced this would be the best move for Dembele.

Fulham already have a number of options available to them in a similar position, and he wouldn't be getting the regular minutes he needs to further his development.

The Cottagers are likely to be in the hunt for promotion back into the Premier League, which will make this sound like a tempting proposition for Dembele, but I think he'd be better off pursuing a move elsewhere.

If he's looking to further his development in senior football, then a move to Craven Cottage probably isn't the answer.

Marco Silva already has the likes of Ivan Cavaleiro and Anthony Knockaert available to him, and it seems hard to believe that Dembele would be getting into the Fulham team ahead of them at this stage.

Ben Wignall

Whilst Dembele would be a good fit for a lot of Championship clubs, I feel as though Fulham may be one where he potentially gets lost in the shuffle.

The Cottagers have a plethora of options out wide and you'd expect Marco Silva to play a 4-2-3-1 formation, but what become of those options remains to be seen.

Harry Wilson, Anthony Knockaert, Ivan Cavaleiro, Bobby Decordova-Reid and Neeskens Kebano will all be vying for spots in that attacking trio behind Aleksandar Mitrovic and Dembele would also enter that battle should he sign for Fulham, and I could only see them making an offer if one of those players departed.

Fulham would easily be able to afford whatever Peterborough are asking for the 24-year-old, but I just don't think it's the best fit for both the club or the player and even though a potential move to Craven Cottage could be a head-turner for Dembele, there's so many clubs interested that I believe he should look elsewhere.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/dont-think-its-the-best-fit-fulham-enter-transfer-race-for-24-year-old-forward-the-verdict/


WhiteJC

Fulham closing in on Rodrigo Muniz deal

Fulham are closing in on a deal which would bring Rodrigo Muniz to Craven Cottage this summer.

What's the talk?

That's according to a report by Brazilian media outlet O Dia, who claimed that Cottagers CEO Alistair Mackintosh contacted Flamengo executive director Bruno Spindel on Thursday to confirm the proposal of an €8m (£6.8m) offer for the centre-forward, a deal which is split into two €4m (£3.4m) instalments.

The report added that Middlesbrough also made an offer for the 20-year-old, believed to be a €5m (£4.3m) bid for 50% of his rights, although Muniz prefers the idea of a move to Fulham.

Following the report, Vene Casagrande provided a further update on the situation of the striker, with the journalist revealing on Twitter that the Flamengo forward is set to travel to London in the coming days in order to link up with Fulham.

Silva will be buzzing

With it being reported that Marco Silva personally informed Muniz that he wanted to complete his signing to replicate the acquisition of Richarlison while at Everton, reports that a deal for the centre-forward seems to be all but done is sure to have left the 44-year-old buzzing.

Indeed, the youngster would appear to be a player with a significant amount of potential, and one who could well light up the Championship next season.

Over his nine Serie A appearances for Flamengo so far this term, the £2.7m-rated man has bagged three goals, provided one assist and created two big chances for his teammates, averaging 0.6 key passes and 2.4 shots per match.

These metrics have seen the man who Rene Simoes dubbed a "very good" player earn an average SofaScore match rating of 7.16, ranking him as the club's joint eighth-best player in the Brazilian top flight.

As such, following on from the already impressive signings of Harry Wilson and Paulo Gazzaniga this summer, the possible addition of Muniz is clear evidence of the direction in which Silva wishes to take Fulham, with the club's transfer dealings so far under the Portuguese boss very much sending a message to the rest of the Championship that the Cottagers mean business this season.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-fc-transfer-rumours/fulham-transfer-news-flamengo-marco-silva-rodrigo-muniz-the-championship-alistair-mackintosh

WhiteJC

Fulham 1-0 Charlton

Fabio Carvalho's calm finish was enough to ensure Fulham ended their pre-season with a win over Charlton.

Tyrese Francois sliced open the Addicks' defence to set away the creative midfielder on an all-round positive day for Marco Silva.

Marco Silva selected his first Fulham side in front of fans at Craven Cottage. New signing Paulo Gazzaniga started between the sticks and Harry Wilson was named on the bench. There were starts for the youthful Francois and Carvalho.

The game had a leisurely feel to it which reflected the pre-season nature. Opportunities were few and far between as the centre back pairing of Tim Ream and Tosin Adarabioyo looked to spray balls in behind.

The youth combined to open the scoring on half an hour. Francois had shown composure all game, and he split open the Addicks' defence to release Carvalho who slid under the onrushing keeper. He made his celebrations clear to the travelling Charlton fans.

The floods of Fulham players streaming in behind continued to cause problems. The lead remained just one at the interval with Mitrović's instinctive prod the biggest chance other than the goal.

The visitors looked more threatening as the second half wore on. The changes made to the Fulham system were minimal considering the sizeable bench.

On the hour mark, the clear Fulham chances started to show. Anthony Knockaert headed over from close-range and took his frustrations out on the post. Frank Anguissa's cross was delivered to perfection to create the chance.

The floods of Fulham changes started to reveal themselves. Harry Wilson made his debut and Joe Bryan, Jean-Michael Seri and Alfie Mawson were introduced in quick succession.

The game ebbed and flowed to a quiet close as the lads ended their pre-season with a win.

Fulham: Gazzaniga; Tete, Adarabioyo, Ream (Mawson 79'), Robinson (Bryan 79'); Anguissa, Francois (Seri 79'), Carvalho; Kebano (Wilson 64'), Mitrović, Knockaert.

Charlton: MacGillivray, Gunter, Dobson, Famewo, Matthews; Clare, Inniss, Morgan, Jaiyesimi; Stockley, Washington.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/july/Fulham-1-0-Charlton/

WhiteJC

Francois and Carvalho conquer Charlton

There were grumbles towards the end of Scott Parker's reign about just how difficult it was for some of Fulham's promising talent to force their way into the first team picture. Fabio Carvalho did appear at the tail end of a dismal season, but his eye-catching cameos left you wondering why it had taken so long. The attacking midfielder staked his claim for a first-team start in the Championship with a beautiful winning goal made by his fantastic fellow academy graduate Tyrese Francois as Marco Silva's side finished their pre-season preparations with a routine win over League One Charlton Athletic.

Silva sprung some surprises with his teamsheet, selecting Paulo Gazzaniga in goal and pairing Australian youngster Francois alongside Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa at the heart of the engine room. Carvalho looks certain to deputise for the injured captain Tom Cairney against Middlesbrough next Sunday and the two youngsters seized their chance to shine, delivering composed performances that belied their tender years. The decisive goal was a thing of beauty – Francois jinked away from two tacklers just inside the Charlton half and threaded a ball out of the reach of Ryan Innes. Carvalho raced beyond the visiting backline and calmly slotted his finish between Craig MacGillivray's legs.

On the balance of play, Fulham should have been further in front by the end but Charlton had began brightly with Dialling Jaiyesimi awkwardly hooking a half chance high into the Hammersmith End and Sean Clare blazing over the bar after Robinson had carelessly surrendered possession to Jaiyesimi. Carvalho was Fulham's most regular threat, darting into dangerous pockets of space behind Aleksandar Mitrovic. Akin Famewo bravely blocked a snapshot from the youngster before he stripped Albie Morgan of possession from a throw in and surged towards the box only to overhit his attempted pass to the Serbian striker.

Francois was full of energy at the base of the Fulham midfield in the absence of Harrison Reed and produced a jaw-dropping bit of skill on the halfway to kill a ball that dropped from the sky stone dead on the halfway line. The classy midfielder was the architect of the only goal just after the half mark when he skipped past two tacklers and slipped a beautiful ball between the Charlton centre halves allowing Carvalho to demonstrate his potency in front of goal yet again.

Carvalho nearly fashioned a second before half time but his unselfishness attempt to square for Mitrovic, who would have a tap in, rather than shoot himself allowed Adam Matthews to stab out a foot and clear. By this point, Carvalho was everywhere and he popped up to head wide after excellent approach play by Robinson and Neeskens Kebano down the Fulham left. There was far more fluidity about Fulham's work in the final third, with players interchanging regularly, even if Mitrovic had a largely quiet afternoon at the head of the hosts' attack.

The pattern continued into the second half. Fulham probed patiently, with Carvalho and Francois to the fore, but created little in the way of clear cut chances. Knockaert was culpable on a number of occasions, fluffing his lines at the far post after a Robinson cross had dropped inviting over Chris Gunter's shoulder, and then spurning a great header opportunity from a curling Anguissa cross. Charlton's best chances came from set plays with Morgan drilling one into the wall after a rash Robinson challenge and then supplying a free header for Clare that he guided wastefully into the away fans.

The game briefly threatened to become nasty. Innes and Mitrovic enjoyed a personal physical battle all afternoon, but the Charlton centre back overstepped the mark when he clattered into the Fulham striker's knees on the halfway line. Referee Gavin Ward didn't even issue a warning, but quickly booked Knockaert after he led with an arm against Jaiyesimi. Tempers rose but the football quickly broke out again and a watchable contest produced further Fulham chances as Charlton tired.

Harry Wilson should have scored within seconds of coming off the bench for a first appearance in a Fulham shirt but sent a shot wide from close range after fine approach play from Carvalho. Knockaert rattled the side netting after being set up by Robinson before substitute Joe Bryan extended MacGillivray with three minutes to go when he surged down the left flank and fired towards the top corner but the Charlton keeper improvised a smart save.

There was plenty for Silva to purr over here – it is clear that his approach his far more enterprising than his predecessor and several of his key combinations appear to be locked in. But the tepid nature of this friendly will be apart as far removed as possible from a visit by Neil Warnock's charges on the opening weekend – and Fulham will need to be far more ruthless to come away with three points. Charlton can look back with pride on another encouraging pre-season display, they were disciplined and determined without seriously threatening, and they have a good chance of going from strength to strength under Thomas Saandgard and Nigel Adkins.

FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Gazzaniga; Tete, Robinson (Bryan 79), Adarabioyo, Ream (Mawson 79); Anguissa, Francois (Seri 79); Knockaert, Kebano (Wilson 64), Carvalho; Mitrovic. Subs (not used): L. Ashby-Hammond, Odoi, Onomah, Kamara, Stansfield.

BOOKED: Knockaert.

GOAL: Carvalho (32).

CHARLTON ATHLETIC (4-3-3): MacGillivray; Matthews, Gunter, Famewo, Innes (Elerewe 65); Dobson (Watson 75), Morgan (Gomes 75), Clare; Jaiyesimi, Stockley, Washington (Clayden 65). Subs (not used): Harness, Roddy, Pearce, Davison, Watson, Ghandour, Dempsey.

REFEREE: Gavin Ward (Surrey).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/francois-and-carvalho-conquer-charlton/


WhiteJC

Fulham hold talks with Flamengo over £6.8m deal for striker Rodrigo Muniz with a 20 percent sell-on... while they also look to seal move for Swansea captain Matt Grimes this week

    Fulham are in talks with Flamengo over a deal for their striker Rodrigo Muniz
    The Cottagers are considering a £6.8m move with a 20 percent sell-on
    They are also hoping to secure the signing of Swansea's Matt Grimes this week
    Marco Silva's side have already brought in Harry Wilson and Pablo Gazzaniga

Fulham have held talks over a deal for Flamengo striker Rodrigo Muniz.

The 20-year-old also had interest from Middlesbrough but is understood to prefer a move to London if terms can be agreed. Fulham have been discussing a £6.8million fee with a 20 percent sell-on.


Fulham are considering a £6.8m move for Flamengo's 20-year-old striker Rodrigo Muniz


Matt Grimes is likely to make the move to Craven Cottage but Covid has delayed the medical


But the 26-year-old had tested positive for Covid, which has delayed his medical and prevented the move from being finalised.

It has already been a busy summer at Craven Cottage as the club, under new manager Marco Silva, look to build a squad able to secure an immediate return to the Premier League.

Harry Wilson arrived earlier this month in a £12m deal from Liverpool, after a series of successful loan spells away from Anfield.

Fulham also signed Paulo Gazzaniga on a free transfer, after his contract at Tottenham expired at the end of June.

There will also be a familiar face for Fulham fans in the top-flight this season as Joachim Andersen, on loan at the Cottagers last season, has joined Crystal Palace for £17m.


Pablo Gazzaniga and Harry Wilson have already been brought in by Fulham this window



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9847697/Fulham-hold-talks-Flamengo-6-8m-deal-Rodrigo-Muniz-Matt-Grimes-close.html

WhiteJC

Fulham 'to complete Grimes deal next week'

Fulham are confident of completing their capture of Swansea skipper Matt Grimes next week, according to the Daily Mail.

The Whites are in pole position to land the 26 year-old midfielder, who has entered the final year of his current contract at the Liberty Stadium. The fee is believed to be in the region of £4m. But Grimes, who has made 157 appearances in six years in south Wales, had to isolate after a coronavirus outbreak in the Swansea camp which delayed a medical that had been pencilled in for last week.

Fulham believe they can hold off reported interest from Burnley and Watford in the former Exeter City midfielder and make Grimes Marco Silva's third summer signing in the coming days. Silva's side started with academy graduates Tyrese Francois and Fabio Carvalho in midfield this afternoon as they beat League One Charlton Athletic in their final pre-season friendly at Craven Cottage.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/fulham-to-complete-grimes-deal-next-week/

WhiteJC

Carvalho credits 'amazing' Silva

Fabio Carvalho paid tribute to new Fulham head coach Marco Silva after he scored the winner to settle the Whites' final pre-season friendly against Charlton Athletic this afternoon.

The England youth international, starting as a number ten against the Addicks in the continued absence of club captain Tom Cairney, scored a superb goal just after the half hour mark after latching onto a meticulous pass from fellow Motspur Park academy graduate Tyrese Francois. Carvalho, who made an impression in the Premier League when handed an opportunity at the end of last season, credited Silva for overhauling Fulham's style of play in the space of three weeks.

He told FFC TV following the final whistle at Craven Cottage:

"It was just amazing. The new staff coming in have made sure we work hard. We've been together really as a family, so it's just good to top it off with a win today and it sets us up well for the rest of the season. It's amazing. He helps the team. The way he wants to play is clear with goals and an end product. He wants to go forward, score goals, win games. That's what us players thrive on so it is good. We're taking each game as it comes and I'm sure if we perform like we did today, it will come out good for us."

The teenager is full of belief that Fulham can secure an immediate return to the top flight.

"I'm looking to grow as I do every season. I'm trying to help the team as much as I can with the opportunities I get. Everyone knows we belong in the Premier League and I'll be looking forward to take the team there with goals and assists and whatever I can do."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/carvalho-credits-amazing-silva/


WhiteJC

Silva salutes Francois progress

Marco Silva praised the emergence of Tyrese Francois in his short time at the club after the Australian midfielder shone in Fulham's win over Charlton Athletic this afternoon.

The new Fulham head coach admitted he had no hesitation in offering the 20 year-old a starting spot in central midfield in the club's final pre-season friendly following his strong showings in training. Francois made the only goal for Fabio Carvalho with a terrific pass that cut open the Charlton back line and Silva insists he is in with a good chance of starting Fulham's Championship campaign.

The Portuguese head coach told FFCTV: "Fabio played some Premier League games last season. Maybe many people expect to see Fabio playing well and doing well and not Francois, but Francois is doing really well. Every single day he is improving. He is getting his chances, getting more minutes in his legs, and he had a very good game this afternoon. They did well, and not just today to be honest.

"For me it's the same if you are eighteen, nineteen or thirty. You get the chance and they got it and they are doing well. Fabio is a good example, and Francois as well. The goal we scored was a good example of the moves that we asked them to do [in training] and they did. It gives confidence to our players and they are doing their best."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/silva-salutes-francois-progress/

WhiteJC

Fulham U18s put four past QPR

Fulham's under 18s finished their pre-season programme by putting four goals past QPR in a comprehensive local derby win earlier this afternoon.

Despite dominating the first half, it took until after the interval for Steve Wigley's side superiority to be reflected on the scoreboard. Jaylan Wildbore broke the deadlock before Michael Olakigbe added a second and a late double from Terrell Works put a more convincing gloss on the scoreline.

Wigley include five summer scholars in his starting eleven and Fulham quickly warmed to the task with an early curler testing the QPR goalkeeper. Wildbore was unfortunate not to open the scoring in the tenth minute when a strong run culminated in a goalbound shot that was bravely blocked.

Both Works and Wildbore saw shots blocked after bright pieces of approach play from Olakigbe, before Wildbore's rising drive was tipped over the crossbar. Olakigbe breezed through the Rangers defence before teeing up full back Devan Tanton but his powerful drive comfortably cleared the crossbar.

Fulham did eventually go in front ten minutes after the break. Substitute Lemar Gordon picked out Olakigbe and, although the winger's effort was well save, Wildbore snaffled up the rebound. Olakigbe deservedly doubled the visitors lead with fifteen minutes to play when he found the far corner from an acute angle after being released by a fine Delano McCoy-Splatt through ball.

Works added a pair of late goals – the second taking a cruel deflection on its way in – as Wigley's boys warmed up for the start of their Premier League South season in fine style.

FULHAM (4-3-3): Allen (McNally 26); Tanton, Avenall, Antonsson, Parkes (Quarm 60); Okkas (Robinson 55), McCoy-Splatt, Parker (Gordon 45); Olakigbe, Works, Wildbore (Loupalo-Bi 60).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/fulham-u18s-put-four-past-qpr/

WhiteJC

Fulham 'renegotiating Muniz terms'

Fulham are attempting to renegotiate the terms of their deal to sign Rodridgo Muniz from Flamengo, according to reports from Brazil tonight.

The two clubs had agreed a deal that would see the Whites pay Flamengo £6.8m for the 20 year-old forward on Thursday afternoon, with half the fee up front and the remainder to be paid in 2022. The Brazilian outfit would be left with a twenty per cent sell-on clause.

With the deal likely to be delayed after Muniz tested posted for coronavirus yesterday, Brazilian journalist Venê Casagrande reports tonight that Fulham have sought to re-open discussions after learning that Flamengo had agreed to sell the forward to Middlesbrough for £5.1m with a sell-on clause. It is understood that the two clubs will talk again on Monday.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/08/fulham-renegotiating-muniz-terms/


WhiteJC

Exclusive: EFL insider says Lys Mousset could be tempted to swap Sheffield for Fulham

The Transfer Tavern's EFL spy reckons that a move to Fulham could interest Sheffield United striker Lys Mousset.

The Frenchman has spent the previous five seasons in England with Bournemouth and the Blades but has managed a less than inspiring goal return of just 11 in more than 100 appearances, although nine of those came in the Premier League.

Last season, Mousset played just 342 minutes across all competitions for the United, which would suggest he's surplus to requirements at Bramall Lane, especially with a host of strikers available to Slavisa Jokanovic's disposal.

On the other hand, Jokanovic's former side, Fulham, don't have many attacking options, with Aleksander Mitrovic their only recognised number nine in their squad after Josh Maja returned to France following his loan spell from January.

Mousset joined Sheffield United in £10m deal two years ago, which was a club-record fee, but with just 12 months remaining on his current contract, the Cottagers would surely be able to sign him for considerably less.

When asked whether the 25-year-old could be an option for Marco Silva, the EFL insider exclusively told The Transfer Tavern:

"Mousset is still struggling at Sheffield United, but he's still a very good technician who might fancy the bright lights of London instead of Sheffield United."



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/fulham-fc-news/exclusive-efl-insider-says-lys-mousset-could-be-tempted-to-swap-sheffield-for-fulham-e185/

WhiteJC

Fulham comment: Closing a deal for young Brazilian Muniz will see Cottagers land a future star

Fulham suffered yet another relegation from the Premier League after a disappointing campaign last time out. It was a relegation that looked on the cards all season.

Fulham will now have to regroup under new boss Marco Silva as the Londoners look to bounce back. It will be Silva's task to do this at the first time of asking.

At the core of this will be Silva rebuilding Fulham in his image and at the centre of that his player acquisition. After bringing in Liverpool starlet Harry Wilson and ex-Spurs 'keeper Paulo Gazzaniga, Brazilian starlet Rodrigo Muniz is touted to be the third arrival at Craven Cottage.



Brazilian journalist Casagrande writes that Flamengo directors Spindel and Braz had met with Muniz's representatives. The reason for this was "to begin the necessary steps to make official the sale of the striker to Fulham."

What is know about Rodrigo Muniz?
In truth, very little. The 20-year-old started out at youth side Desportivo Brasil before being picked up by Brazilian giants Flamengo. Their home ground is the iconic Maracana Stadium.

The youngster was loaned out by Flamengo last year, spending a month at fellow Brazilian side Coritiba. He was promoted from the Under-20s at Flamengo into the first-team set-up in March this year.

After six appearances (one goal) for Coritiba, striker Muniz has made 24 appearances for Flamengo, scoring five goals and adding an assist. 19 of these appearances, four goals and that one assist have come in Brazil's top-tier competition, Serie A.

What will Muniz bring to Fulham from Flamengo?
Above all, what Rodrigo Muniz will bring to Fulham is one thing – promise. The young Brazilian has promise and potential and Marco Silva will be tasked with developing that.


The above graphic (use courtesy of smarterscout) provides a snapshot of some of the areas where young Brazilian Muniz rates highly. Scores are out of a FIFA-esque 99 maximum and he scores highly on ball retention (89) and attacking output (91).

However, and bearing in mind he only played limited minutes last season, Muniz has perfect ratings of 99 for shooting and receiving the ball in the opposition penalty area. He also scores very highly with a 98 in his ability to disrupt opposition play.

Digging deeper, website fbref gives a little more detail to what Fulham fans might expect from Rodrigo Muniz. Last season he played nine games in Serie A, scoring three goals from open play.

Looking at his per 90 returns (looking at expectations over a typical 90 minutes) and certain traits stand out. He scores 0.77 goals per 90 but it is his work rate that is impressive.

In his nine appearances, he was in a position to take 22 shots at a rate of 5.64 per 90 with an impressive 2.56 shots on target per 90. So, he works his way into a lot of shooting positions and has a high number of shots on target.

Thoughts – have Fulham unearthed a gem?

Is Rodrigo Muniz a diamond or a diamond in the rough? A polished gem or an unworked project? His performances must have been of some note. Inter Milan were credited with an interest in him at one point earlier this month.

In a way, you can argue that Marco Silva and Fulham are getting a player that they can ease into a Championship campaign. His stats suggest that on the end of someone like Harry Wilson or Ademola Lookman, he could blossom.

His strike rate of 0.70 goals per 90 would suggest a full-season return of 32 goals if he played every minute. Looking at it conservatively, Fulham should expect 10-15 goals from Rodrigo Muniz.

A star now? No. However, with Fulham signing him now they have a star of the future on their hands.



https://the72.co.uk/243490/fulham-comment-closing-a-deal-for-young-brazilian-muniz-will-see-cottagers-land-a-future-star/

WhiteJC

Medical delayed as Fulham look to wrap up signing of 26-year-old

Fulham are looking to wrap up the signing of Matt Grimes, but a delayed medical is preventing a move from being finalised.

Grimes has been a key player for the Swans over the last few seasons, making 45 appearances in the Championship and contributing to six goals from midfield last term.

The Swansea captain is attracting plenty of interest, though, with Fulham and Bournemouth being linked with his signature.

Grimes only has a year left on his contract and could be set to leave the Liberty Stadium on the cheap, with Fulham leading the race to sign the 26-year-old.

But as per the Daily Mail, Grimes has tested positive for COVID which is delaying a medical and preventing a move from being completed.

It seems that when Grimes is fit and fully recovered, then a medical will take place and his move to Craven Cottage will be completed.

Grimes has made 157 appearances for Swansea since joining from Exeter City in 2015, spending time out on loan at Blackburn, Leeds and Northampton.

The Verdict

It's frustrating for Fulham as they will hope to wrap up Grimes' signature before their Championship campaign gets underway.

But it seems that a move looks likely to happen, and even though there is a bit of a delay right now, Fulham shouldn't panic.

To bring in a player of his quality for a cut-price deal would be a shrewd bit of business and it shows another statement of intent made by the London club upon their return to the Championship.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/medical-delayed-as-fulham-look-to-wrap-up-signing-of-26-year-old/


AJW48361

What Central Defender is leaving the Cottage ? I Reckon MLM.