Friday Fulham Stuff - 26/11/21...

[WhiteJC]

Jack and Loz at the Top of the League - Blog 200
Date: 24th November 2021

Opposition: Derby County

Score: 0-0

Weather: chilly

Atmosphere: good but frustrated

MOTM (football): in a hectic, gritty game, one man kept control. Tim Ream has consistently played with assurance and composure this season, but on Wednesday night he brought an almost statesmanlike level of calm and inscrutability to the team. While chaos raged around him, he maintained a tight grip on the defence and read the game like a professor of English reading Mr Strong. Even though he was playing one and half positions due to Tosin's waywardness, he still had time to send several of his trademark Super-passes diagonally forwards to the wingers.

MOTM (non-football): we've got Bairdinho! And it was fantastic to hear him talk about what the Europa run means to him

Pub: not applicable on a school night

On Wednesday, to quote the Tube security message, Fulham fans saw something that didn't look right.

It began with the team line-up. Knowing that Marco Silva has been complacent before, fans initially wondered if he realised that Derby only had zero points through a technicality. OK, it's a pretty major technicality but they're really a mid-table team and they beat our promotion rivals Bournemouth at the weekend. But we know Marco has learnt from his mistakes and that he would only leave Mitro, TC and Rodak out of the squad if he was forced to.

The most damning evidence that something was askew was the inclusion of Anthony Knockaert. If he was the answer, what on earth was the question?

Despite the scoreline and the scrappy play this was an entertaining game. Derby, as anticipated, were well organised and focused. They're almost down and out already - they've got nothing to lose. We weren't fans of Rooney as a player, or indeed a human being, but credit where's it due - he's turned vicissitude to his advantage and he's got his players fighting for survival.

From a Fulham point of view, this was a chance for the players to step up and show they're not a One Man Team. For Muniz in particular, this should have been a time to shine. It is probably fair to say that full strength Fulham would have beaten Derby and it's probably fair to say that Wednesday's selection should have beaten Derby too. After all, this was a team featuring Neeskens Kebano, Harry Wilson and Fabio Carvalho, all of whom know where the goal is. In defence, Tosin was back and Kenny Tete finds playing in the Championship easy. Jean-Michael Seri is a cut above almost every player in the league and whilst Gazzaniga doesn't fill us with confidence, he's an experienced keeper.

But, as we've said, something wasn't right. Tosin was so erratic he was a liability, Tete and Reed started well but faded fast, Seri was skilful but was playing within himself, Kebano and Wilson looked out of sorts and Robinson was all over the place (and we don't just mean he ran around the pitch a lot).

Fabio got stuck in and showed his class but couldn't make it count and Muniz, although full of energy and enthusiasm, was almost too keen - rushing his shots and making mistakes.

Gazzaniga turned out to be the least of our worries and put in a very credible performance and of course Tim Ream was majestic.

Josh Onomah was lively and impactful as a sub (and in fact we would have brought him on earlier) and despite our doubts, Knockaert was competent and pacy. And he didn't cut in and blaze a shot over the bar. Which was an improvement.

The team did almost everything except score in both halves. Seri hit the bar, Fabio hit the post, Kebano's free kick was only just saved, Muniz had a shot cleared off (and in fact, partially over) the line. Shances were created but not taken. The forwards didn't help themselves by often choosing to pass the ball around in the box rather than shoot with it. This allowed the Derby defence to close in and scramble the danger away.

At the back, there were moments when an entire Hendecagon of Doom was scrabbling incoherently in the box whilst in the middle passes were misdirected, often into the stands. Play juddered and stuttered along, not helped by the referee who was inconsistent and indecisive.

There are two main reasons for the absence of cohesion and absence of a goal: one is that it turns out that Mitro and TC weren't the only victims of the bug which has raged through Motspur Park this week and clearly, a lot of the team weren't 100% fit, hence the feeble finishing and lack of cut and thrust. The other is that, of course, we were missing Mitro. The players are used to him leading the line, being a beacon in the box whom they can pick out with a pass or cross. Muniz doesn't have the same presence and probably isn't the same type of striker anyway. So the system broke down and no one had enough energy to fix it.

But a draw and a clean sheet in these difficult circumstances will do. Sometimes, the games you don't lose are the ones which matter.

Random musings:-

- we would have wished Derby well in their battle for survival were it not for their appalling cheating in extra time. If you've hurt your head so badly that the game is stopped and the medics race on, you shouldn't be coming back in the pitch 10 seconds after you've left it, you should be on your way to hospital

- had anyone heard of Las before the match.....?

- shame he didn't get to warm up so we could give him a cheer

- thanks to Tim, Josh, Seri and Marco for coming over to the Hammersmith End, we know everyone else was feeling rubbish so they're forgiven

- ......that bicycle kick.....

So whilst we didn't quite prove we're not a One Man Team, this was an honourable draw, played in adversity. But if the team plays without Mitro again they need to do better. However, West Brom's result means the gap to third is maintained and Bournemouth's result means more than that - that we finished the night where we started it: Top of the League.




https://werdsmith.com/p/JtgWv68aPZ7qM7

[WhiteJC]

Update from Silva's pre-Preston presser.

He said #FFC (non-Covid) illness situation hasn't worsened, but 6 players affected will need checking tomorrow (Mitrovic, Cairney, Reed, Wilson, Robinson, De Cordova-Reid).

Rodak available.https://t.co/Ww54s4GCsh

— Peter Rutzler (@peterrutzler) November 25, 2021

[WhiteJC]

Derby County's defence stands tall as they do fans proud against Fulham

All of the reaction from in and around Pride Park as the Rams took a point from Craven Cottage.

Here is all of the reaction from Derby County's 0-0 draw with Fulham on Wednesday night.

Player ratings

Kelle Roos 8

One or two shaky moments, but a sharp save from Kebano's deflected free kick kept Derby level at the break. Denied Carvalho after the break and showed good handling in the second half. Brilliant stop late on to deny Carvalho again.

Nathan Byrne 7.5

Distribution was a bit loose at times in the first half but he made a vital challenge on Kebano just before the break as the Fulham player threatened to score at the back post. There was another piece of valuable defending at the back post from him in the second half.

Phil Jagielka 7.5

He and fellow centre-back Davies stood up to everything Fulham threw at them. Solid .defending.

What the fans said

Jamie : Can we play the top 2 every week? Another cracking performance - COYR

Jack : Solid performance from the boys tonight. Four points from Bournemouth and Fulham ain't too shabby. We fight till the end!

Just Julie : Never been happier with a 0-0, what a performance from #dcfc couldn't ask for more!

Tricky : Proud #dcfc fan tonight.

The effort, energy, and organisation were superb tonight

What Rooney said

"It is a good point for us in a very difficult game against Fulham, a strong team, and we maybe could have nicked it on another but a point was a fair result," Rooney said.

"In the past week, given everything surrounding the club, to get four points against Bournemouth and Fulham the players deserve a lot of credit for that.

"It has been a tough week off the pitch but they keep coming in and working hard, and I can never doubt that. I think they are getting the recognition they deserve and praise they deserve for how they are handling the situation."



https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/derby-countys-defence-stands-tall-6257061

[WhiteJC]

'We're still winning the league' – Many Fulham fans react to recent events v Derby County

Many Fulham fans have taken to Twitter to react to their side's 0-0 draw at Craven Cottage to Derby County in the Sky Bet Championship last night.

The Whites were frustrated continuously throughout the 90 minutes by a firm Derby rear guard that put their bodies on the line time and time again as they earnt what could be a vital point on the road.

As for Fulham, it was a slip up that they could've don without and it was clear that the hosts missed the goal scoring talents of Aleksander Mitrovic yesterday evening as they fired a blank.

Naturally it didn't take long for the Craven Cottage faithful to react to what they had seen from their side, with many taking to social media to air their views after the full time whistle had been blown.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/were-still-winning-the-league-many-fulham-fans-react-to-recent-events-v-derby-county/

[WhiteJC]

Everything you need to know about Arsenal's young striker Mika Biereth

Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith-Rowe... Arsenal have reared some brilliant young footballers recently and Mika Biereth may be the next to make an impression at the Emirates.

Biereth joined the club from Fulham this summer and his form for their Under-23 side has reportedly caught manager Mikel Arteta's attention. While a loan move has been planned for the 18-year-old, Biereth may yet get his opportunity in one of the domestic cup competitions in the near future.

We've compiled everything you need to know about the young Arsenal striker that may be appearing in the first team soon.

His career so far
Born in 2003, Biereth first caught the eye with his goalscoring prowess at Fulham.

Fulham blitzed all before them, including Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham, to win their second consecutive Premier League South title last season.

And Biereth was central to their charge, scoring 21 goals in as many games, as well as providing 13 assists. But Fulham ultimately came up short against Manchester City in the Premier League National final and failed to qualify for European football.

With the Cottagers suffering relegation from the Premier League, it's perhaps not surprising that Biereth attracted attention from bigger fish and Arsenal signed the striker after he turned down a professional contract with Fulham.

The 18-year-old has hit the ground running at Arsenal. In 12 PL2 appearances this season, Biereth has five goals and three assists which has attracted the attention of Arteta.

Football.London have reported that he will now get a chance to train with the senior team, with Arsenal prepared to give him the chance to join another club on loan for the 2022-23 season so he can get regular first-team chances.

Biereth has also received his first call-up to the Denmark Under-19s this season and scored his first international goal in a win over Georgia in November 2021.

Where does he play?
Although he is usually deployed upfront, Biereth is also capable of playing out wide or as an attacking midfielder – demonstrating the versatility that would make him an asset to any Premier League club.

His goal against Chelsea this season showed just how good he can be. Latching on to a long pass from Florian Balogun, Biereth acrobatically lofted the ball over the goalkeeper before wheeling away in delight.

That combination of athleticism, poise and improvisation makes Biereth stand out amongst his peers.

While Biereth possesses a goalscoring record that demands respect, he seems to be playing more of a supporting role to Balogun for Arsenal this season.

Of course, this is no bad thing as it allows the young striker to further develop aspects of his game. According to staff at Arsenal, his link-up and hold-up play are already showing signs of improvement.

This shows how Biereth's game has already evolved since joining Arsenal and his potential is yet to be fully explored. Expect big things from the 18-year-old.

What he's said
"To be honest, I don't get too hung up with stats because I know that strikers go through hot patches and cold patches," he said in an interview with Arsenal's official website in September 2021.

"It's important to stay balanced. I just go into every game hoping to score and then over the course of the season, those numbers tend to tally up anyway.

"Sometimes you can go three or four games without scoring, but then end up with a hat-trick in the following match. I just try to remain level-headed with that.

"It's funny because, while I'm not overly big on the numbers, my dad definitely is. In fact, he's kept stats on me since my first Sunday league game! He's got stats on everything – even down to the percentage of goals I've been involved in.

"He keeps an in-depth Excel spreadsheet of them."

What they've said
"The recruitment team did a terrific job in bringing him to the club and he's a boy who has a fantastic character and attitude," said Kevin Betsy, the Head Youth coach at Arsenal.

"His willingness to work for the team is excellent, his movement to get into space in behind is also very prominent in his game and he can finish. He's a really good finisher."

And, after his sensational goal against Chelsea, a number of professional footballers praised Biereth on social media. Bayern Munich star Jamal Muisala commented "Finish", while Southampton's Tino Livramento said: "Top still."



https://www.planetfootball.com/quick-reads/everything-you-need-to-know-about-arsenal-striker-mika-biereth/

[WhiteJC]

Ream reflects on 'frustrating' draw

Tim Ream admitted that his Fulham team-mates were frustrated after being held to a goalless draw by bottom club Derby County at Craven Cottage last night.

The Whites were missing several first-team regulars, including Marek Rodak, Tim Ream and Tom Cairney through illness, and struggled to match their fluent recent displays as their seven-match winning run came to an end. Ream, who was outstanding again at the heart of the Fulham defence, told FFCTV after the final whistle:

"Frustrating is probably the best way to describe it. First half we were a little bit sloppy, especially in the final third. A few half chances not fall our way and in the second half we were in and around their box pretty much the entire second half. It just seemed that the half chances and the little bounces didn't fall our way. Sometimes that happens. We're frustrated, but at the end of the run of the fixtures it's no change and I think we take that going into the weekend."

Ream didn't use the absence of the likes of Mitrovic and Cairney as an excuse for why the Whites were unable to break down a resolute Derby defence.

"We work so much together within the squad every single day. We understand everyone's strengths and it's not really an issue. It is more of a surprise when you first come to the training ground and you see who's not there. Everyone was prepared. Guys need to step up."

The American international is now focused on returning to winning ways at Preston on Saturday – although he recognises that coming away from Deepdale with three points won't be an easy task.

"We'll regroup, look at a few things and we know what Preston do. It's always a tough one up there. We'll recover, look at their strengths and we know it is going to be a tough game because they got a good result last night."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/11/ream-reflects-on-frustrating-draw/

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva shares fitness update on Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic and Tom Cairney

Fulham head coach Marco Silva has revealed that Aleksandar Mitrovic and Tom Cairney missed yesterday's clash with Derby County due to illness.

In the absence of this particular duo, the Cottagers were unable to break down a resilient Rams outfit as they were held to a 0-0 draw.

Jean Michel Seri's effort for Fulham struck the woodwork in the first-half of last night's game as Silva's side pushed for a goal.

Following the break, Fabio Carvalho was denied by the post and had a separate effort saved by Kelle Roos.

Curtis Davies then cleared Rodrigo Muniz's header off the line.

Unable to net a late winner at Craven Cottage, Fulham missed out on the opportunity to extend their advantage over their nearest rivals AFC Bournemouth who were also held to a draw by Millwall.

Set to face Preston North End on Saturday, the Cottagers will be determined to extend their current unbeaten run in the second-tier to nine games at Deepdale.

After Fulham's draw with Derby, Silva shared an update on Mitrovic and Cairney.

Speaking in his post-match press conference (as cited by Fulham's official website) about the duo, Silva said: "Mitrovic and Cairney are both ill."

Silva later added: "Of course, Mitrovic is an important player but his absence is not why we didn't win the game [against Derby]."

The Verdict

Fulham will be hoping that Mitrovic and Cairney are both able to make a swift recovery from their illnesses as both players know exactly what it takes to thrive at this level.

One of the Championship's stand-out performers this season, Mitrovic has already scored a remarkable total of 21 goals in 18 league games for the Cottagers and will be keen to add to this tally over the Christmas period.

Meanwhile, Cairney has made 306 appearances at this level during his career and thus will be looking to use his wealth of experience to his advantage in the current campaign by helping the Cottagers seal an immediate return to the top-flight next year.

Providing that both players are able to overcome their issues ahead of this weekend's meeting with Preston, it wouldn't be at all surprising if they are included in the club's starting eleven for this fixture.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/marco-silva-shares-fitness-update-on-fulhams-aleksandar-mitrovic-and-tom-cairney/

[WhiteJC]

Games for the Weekend 27/11
This weekend we're off to Deepdale to take on Preston North End for a 12:30 kick-off.

A 0-0 draw against Derby might not appear to be a good result, I think most of us expected a win, after 7 on the bounce not unreasonably? however with Mitro and Tom both ill and several other (reportedly) playing although suffering the same illness, and Rodak having to self-isolate, it looks as if it was a reasonable result?
Seri, Carvalho and Muniz all came close and on a different day we could have won comfortably, on to Preston.

Preston will be buoyed by their away win at Middlesborough coming after a couple of losses against Cardiff and Forest.

Our record against Preston is very good with 5 wins, 1 loss and 2 draws.

I'm going to assume that both Mitro and Tom will be fit, Rodak should be available, so my team would be...

COYW's

Games of Interest...
Friday 26th
West Brom v Forest

Saturday 27th
Preston NE v Fulham
Bournemouth v Coventry
Hull v Millwall

Sunday 28th
Sheff Utd v Reading

Monday 29th
Derby v QPR

come on over to the forum and join in the conversation...
https://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?board=36.0



http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=1867

[WhiteJC]

Preview: Preston North End vs. Fulham - prediction, team news, lineups

Fulham square off against Preston North End on Saturday afternoon looking to strengthen their position at the top of the Championship standings.

While Preston have been inconsistent of late, Tuesday's comeback 2-1 victory at Middlesbrough has kept them within seven points of the playoffs.

Match preview
Although Fulham have been far from a one-man team this season, the absence of Aleksandar Mitrovic against Derby County suggested otherwise as they failed to find the back of the net against the bottom-placed side.

Despite credit needing to be given to their opponents, Marco Silva would have been bitterly disappointed with being held to a goalless draw by the Rams.

On a positive note, none of their direct rivals took advantage, but the Portuguese will only feel extra reliant on top goalscorer Mitrovic heading into the Christmas period.

Summer arrival Rodrigo Muniz was making his first start in the second tier of English football, and the 20-year-old found it considerably more difficult to when he netted twice as a substitute against 10-man Blackburn Rovers earlier this month.

Silva would been satisfied with another clean sheet being added to their tally, Fulham now shutting out the opposition in six of their last seven matches.

Consistency has prevented Preston from living up to their potential this season, but Frankie McAvoy will feel that his squad are beginning to find an extra gear.

Tuesday's triumph at the Riverside Stadium represented their fourth victory in seven games, while it was the second time that they had overturned a one-goal deficit during that period.

Emil Riis Jakobsen added his eighth Championship goal of the campaign in the North-East, while Ched Evans contributed his first after barely featuring since August.

While Fulham will likely prove to be one of their tougher tests this season, Preston will take confidence from defeating their title rivals Bournemouth as recently as November 3.

Preston North End Championship form:

    L    W    W    L    L    W

Fulham Championship form:

    W    W    W    W    W    D

Team News
With Tuesday's cameo his first appearance in three months, Evans is likely to remain on the Preston substitutes' bench for this contest.

Daniel Johnson and Scott Sinclair are pushing for starting roles, but McAvoy may opt to keep the same team which started at Middlesbrough.

With Tom Cairney and Mitrovic having both been sidelined through illness this week, they are unlikely to come back into contention for a starting role.

Silva may stick with the same Fulham XI, although the likes of Josh Onomah and Bobby DeCordova Reid are both pushing for recalls.

A reshuffle may lead to Muniz starting this fixture among the replacements and Harry Wilson being used in a central position.

Preston North End possible starting lineup:
Iversen; Van den Berg, Bauer, Hughes; Barkhuizen, McCann, Whiteman, Earl; Browne; Maguire, Riis

Fulham possible starting lineup:
Gazzaniga; Tete, Adarabioyo, Ream, Robinson; Seri, Reed; Reid, Carvalho, Kebano; Wilson

We say: Preston North End 0-2 Fulham

Having failed to net against the division's bottom side, Fulham will be motivated to put things right on Saturday. Regardless of whether Mitrovic returns to the fold, we would still back the Cottagers to claim all three points with a clean sheet.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/preview/preview-preston-vs-fulham-prediction-team-news-lineups_471065.html?cQx=NN&newsnow

[WhiteJC]

The One And Only Issue 12: Fulham

Our featured interview in this weekend's edition of The One And Only is with shot-stopper Daniel Iversen, who recalls one of the favourite days of his career against the Cottagers back in 2019.

It was the early moments of January when arguably the most famous domestic trophy in world football takes centre stage, when lower league teams get the chance to enjoy a famous day in their history.

That's what happened for Iversen and his loan team at that moment, Oldham Athletic, with the League Two outfit stunning Premier League side Fulham in the third round of the FA Cup.

The Danish goalkeeper had a huge part to play that day, saving an Aleksandar Mitrovic penalty with the score at 1-1 at Craven Cottage, before team-mate Callum Lang – now of Wigan Athletic – went up the other end to seal victory in the 88th minute.

"We were 1-0 down in the first half and then we scored a penalty to equalise," said Dan. "After that, they got a penalty too and Aleksandar Mitrovic took it and I managed to save it. I hadn't actually seen his penalties before, but I kept it out, which was good.

"Then we scored again to make it 2-1 right at the end, so that was definitely one of my best moments in football so far.

    "We were a League Two team playing a Premier League side. We had 4,000 fans or something travelling too, so that was an amazing day all round."


Denying Mitrovic a goal is something not too many goalkeepers have managed to do so far this season, with the Serbian striker having scored in all but four league games at the time of writing.

He's not the only threat in Marco Silva's team, though, with the Cottagers comfortably the top scorers in the division.

Dan added: "I think they're a very good team. They're a Premier League side really, a little bit like Bournemouth.

"It will definitely be a good test for us, but I think we seem to be better against the best teams, I don't know why, but it will be a good game.

"We of course have to be ready for every game, but when you play against the top teams you have to be more concentrated. I think it will be a good test for us and we can't wait to play that one.

"Obviously Mitrovic is scoring goals for fun right now. He's a top striker and we're going to need to be very organised all throughout the team. Hopefully we can keep him quiet on the day."

There's plenty more from Dan in his full interview in the programme, as he talks about his form on the pitch and family life away from it.

    Also in this edition of the programme, Sean Maguire answers fan questions, while Brad Potts, Greg Cunningham and Jordan Storey take part in other player features.

As always, supporters can buy their copy of the programme from around the ground on Saturday afternoon for £3.50, or alternatively order a copy to arrive straight to your home by clicking here.



https://www.pnefc.net/news/2021/november/the-one-and-only-issue-12-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

When Lee Ashcroft's hat-trick saw Preston North End overcome Kevin Keegan's Fulham
Preston North End's clash with Fulham at Deepdale in November 1997 was a special one for Lee Ashcroft.

At the time the Cottagers were in the early days of being owned by Mohamed Al-Fayed who was started to pump money into them.

But for all their riches, they had no answer to Preston boy Ashcroft who netted a hat-trick as PNE ran out 3-1 winners in this Second Division clash.

North End even gave their visitors from the capital a goal start, roaring back through Ashcroft's treble to halt a run of four successive home defeats in the league.

Post-match, Preston boss Gary Peters described it as a victory for 'passion over money'.

Peters was delighted to finally put points on the board from a home game – it had been nearly two months since that had happened.

Things didn't go to plan to start with, North End falling behind in the sixth minute.

Mark Blake's pass down the right wing was collected by Paul Peschisolido who took the ball beyond left-back Dean Barrick.

Peschisolido sent over a low cross into the box which PNE centre-half Michael Jackson stretched to cut out.

But he succeeded only in directing the ball into the path of Rob Scott who found the net at the near post.

The Lilywhites were level by the 11th minute and what a cracker it was too.

Barrick won possession and fed the ball to Michael Appleton who played a neat one-two with Rankine before finding Ashcroft with a pass.

Ashcroft spun just inside the box and curled a superb finish into the top corner past keeper Maik Taylor.

With their tails up, PNE went on the attack with Appleton seeing a shot saved by Taylor.

Tony Lormor put a header wide, while Gary Parkinson was off target with a shot.

North End went 2-1 ahead in the 69th minute.

Ashcroft got possession in the box and was clipped by Neil Smith as he attempted to turn past the Fulham man.

Referee Eddie Lomas pointed to the spot, Ashcroft picking himself up to beat Taylor with the penalty.

The striker's hat-trick was completed seven minutes from time.

Barrick's pass found Rankine down the left hand side of the box.

Rankine pulled the ball back to Ashcroft who took it across the face of the box before drilling a shot into the bottom corner.

Ashcroft was to admit that his hat-trick almost didn't happen as he had started to feel his hamstring tighten.

He had delayed signalling to the bench, though, and was glad to have kept quiet.

When his third goal hit the back of the net, Ashcroft did alert the bench and got a big hug from Peters as he left the pitch for a well-earned rest, Michael Holt replacing him up front.

Ashcroft's treble had taken his goal tally to five in the last five games, all of them when he had Lormor partnering him up front.

It was his first hat-trick in PNE colours, this his second spell at the club.

Another treble had come earlier playing for West Bromwich Albion.

Even at 3-1 and with Ashcroft's feet up in the dugout, North End pushed on looking to increase their lead.

Sean Gregan, who had been outstanding in midfield, saw a shot in stoppage time take a coat of paint off the bar as it travelled inches too high.

The players left the pitch to a tremendous ovation from the Deepdale faithful, a job well done.



https://www.lep.co.uk/sport/football/preston-north-end/when-lee-ashcrofts-hat-trick-saw-preston-north-end-overcome-kevin-keegans-fulham-3470681

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva delivers Fulham verdict on Rodrigo Muniz following maiden league start

Fulham manager Marco Silva believes 20-year-old Rodrigo Muniz had a mixed performance against Derby County on his first Championship start, speaking to the Cottagers' club journalists after last night's showdown.

The Brazilian was brought into the starting lineup after key man Aleksandar Mitrovic was ruled out with illness, being given a chance to stake his claim for a starting spot after only being able to make eight cameos in the second tier this term before this clash against the Rams.

He may have failed to score in 120 minutes against Leeds United back in September's Carabao Cup tie – but he has managed to get on the scoresheet three times in the league this season – securing his first goal for the club against Reading before registering a late brace at Blackburn Rovers earlier this month.

With the young striker only arriving from home nation Brazil in the summer for an €8m fee, a price tag that comes with high expectations, his goalscoring record for the west London outfit has been reasonably impressive.

But he was unable to make the breakthrough for the hosts yesterday evening against a resolute and experienced Derby defence, despite going within centimetres of clinching a late winner.

Cottagers boss Silva believes there were positives and negatives to take from the 20-year-old's performance, but commended his perseverance in what turned out to be a frustrating game for the table-toppers.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, he said: "Muniz had some moments, some not so good.

"He's a young boy, but hungry to learn and improve. We know he can score if our game from out wide is good enough.

"He had some chances in the second-half, sometimes he should've made a different decision, but that's football.

"He did everything and tried everything, and we go again."

The Verdict:

Considering this was his first league start, there are certainly signs of promise in Muniz and he will only get better with more minutes, making it important that he gets enough game time for the sake of him and competitor Mitrovic.

Not only will the Brazilian benefit from an increased amount of time on the pitch, but it will also give 27-year-old Mitrovic the opportunity to come off when he's at risk of burning out and with that, will reduce the risk of him sustaining up a long-term injury.

The Serbian has been their most important player this season with his goals, propelling Silva's men to the top of the Championship table, so getting the rotation strategy right between the striking duo could be crucial for their automatic promotion prospects.

There shouldn't be any temptation to loan the 20-year-old out yet, because he seems to be settled in well and shipping him out elsewhere in January could upset his rhythm.

And considering he's only young, he can afford to be on the bench for a little while longer, with a view to being included in the starting lineup more regularly in the future.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/marco-silva-delivers-fulham-verdict-on-rodrigo-muniz-following-maiden-league-start/

[WhiteJC]

Preston North End summer signing is 'ready' to play ahead of Fulham fixture

The former Rotherham United and Manchester United man is still waiting to make his debut

The wait appears to be finally over for Preston North End defender Matthew Olosunde.

Signed from Rotherham United in the summer, the right-back is yet to make his debut for the club after injuring his Achilles against St Johnstone in pre-season.

Initially said to be out for a 'few weeks' and then expected back after the September international break, Olosunde's return has been a long old time coming.

He has been out for over four months.

Head coach Frankie McAvoy's latest comments will feel like Deja-vu for supporters, but the word from the Scot is that his number 22 is now ready to play for PNE.

Having got some minutes under his belt for the reserves and been in full training, the American must now force his way into the starting lineup.

"He is ready and was a bit unfortunate not to find himself involved the other night," said McAvoy.

"But Tommy B, in that right wing-back position, has done extremely well for me and is another important player in the team.

"Getting the balance on the bench is difficult sometimes as well, you have to pick it based on how you think the game might pan out and where you might need to cover.

"It is just trying to get the right balance on the bench and Matthew has just found himself a little unfortunate, but he is ready and we will see how things go."

Elsewhere, McAvoy confirmed that Brad Potts and Jordan Storey were absent from the match squad at Middlesbrough due to 'competition for places'.

There are also a couple of 'knocks' - not said to be serious - that PNE will have to assess over the next 48 hours prior to Fulham's visit to Deepdale.

McAvoy did not want to reveal names but remained hopeful that everyone from Tuesday night will be available once again.



https://www.lancs.live/sport/football/football-news/matthew-olosunde-preston-north-end-22276516

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Talking Points: Derby

A much-changed squad

Marco Silva was forced into making several changes to his matchday squad, which saw starts for both Paulo Gazzaniga and Rodrigo Muniz. Despite not having much to deal with, Paulo looked assured in front of goal and fitted back in to the starting XI comfortably. Rodrigo had a big torch to carry in Mitrovic's absence and had a few chances to break the deadlock himself, most notably, a headed effort that was cleared off the line towards the end of the game.

Mika's rocket

Mika may not be known for his goalscoring exploits but you wouldn't know it after yesterday's strike. Harry Wilson laid the ball off to Mika and with a stadium-wide backing from the fans inside the Cottage, he unleashed an effort that looked almost certain to hit the back of the net before ricocheting off the crossbar. It would have surely been in contention for Goal of the Season.

Rodrigo's acrobatic effort

And speaking of Goal of the Season, Rodrigo might have looked to put in an entry of his own, when he perfectly connected with a cross from Kenny Tete, with an outstanding bicycle kick but it went just over the crossbar, much to the disappointment of those inside of the Cottage who so desperately wanted a goal, but also a goal from the Brazilian.

Derby's defence

Derby's old guard at the back, including Phil Jagielka and Curtis Davies, did well to keep out our free-scoring forwards on Wednesday evening. There were numerous opportunities for the Whites to take the lead, but it was the Rams' defence to the rescue on more than one occasion, that kept the score deadlocked.

Staying positive

Despite a disappointing result and an end to the winning run, we remain unbeaten in our last eight fixtures, and we added another clean sheet to our record. Marco was forced into making a few changes to the squad and the incoming players had positive performances overall, which is testament to the depth that we have in our squad. Other results also went in our favour on the night, as well as the evening before, meaning we were able to maintain our position in the table.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/november/25/talking-points-derby/

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Pre-Preston Press Conference

Marco Silva drew on the positives from his sides 0-0 draw with Derby County ahead of the Whites' trip to Preston North End on Saturday afternoon.

Preston have had a mixed bag of results this season, which reflects on their position in the table, where they are currently sitting in 14th.

"It will be tough to play Preston," Marco started. "They won their last game, and it is a tough place to play. We are in a very good moment, even if yesterday we didn't score but we created a lot of chances.

"We never find excuses for anything, even if something disturbs our preparation. We must look forward for the next one and try to go there to finish off the week on a high with three points."

Marco was also concerned with the short turnaround time from playing in a Wednesday evening fixture, to kicking off early on Saturday afternoon.

"In 48 hours, we do not have the right time to prepare. It is something difficult to understand. I know that it is the Championship but even in the Championship, I think we must do a bit more to protect the football players.

"When players finish a game on Wednesday, they are not in the condition to start a game at 12:30pm on Saturday. Even 3:00pm on a Saturday. It is impossible for a player to be in the best physical condition, impossible.

"I'm not just speaking for ourselves, I'm speaking on behalf of everyone. I think they need to look at the schedule to protect the football players. It is a big risk for them to get injuries."

Preperations were disrupted prior Wednesday night's Derby encounter, forcing Marco into making a number of changes to his squad, something that may carry into the Preston game on Saturday.

"It is something that we will have to check tomorrow. Not just Tom [Cairney] and Mitro but all the others as well. Of course, after the game, they will be even worse. Some of the players weren't in the best condition. It is up to us to check again, tomorrow. We will have a conversation with the doctor to check them and take the decisions for the match.

"It wasn't a perfect scenario with how we had to prepare. Even on the matchday, we had the situation of Marek and Mitro. There are no excuses because I think what Paulo [Gazzaniga] did is a good example of what I want them to do.

"Paulo came in and did well and had some good moments, playing with a courage and giving confidence to his teammates."

However, Marco will have his goalkeeping options boosted by the return of Marek Rodák, who was pinged by the COVID-19 app, preventing him from taking part in the game.

"Marek's situation is strange. Even the day before, we had some information that everything would be okay and not a problem," Marco explained.

"Then the next day, we were told it would be impossible for him to play. It's a bit strange because we are talking about a player who played some days before.

"These are the protocols, I don't want to talk about it, it's in the past but he will be available for the next match."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/november/25/pre-preston-press-conference/

[WhiteJC]

"Everyone made me feel comfortable" – Summer signing thrilled with first few months at Fulham

It's now been three months since Rodrigo Muniz's arrival at Fulham, and the striker claims to be having a good adaptation at the club.

The 20-year-old is featured today in an interview with Lance. As his former side Flamengo are playing the Copa Libertadores final at the weekend, he had a word with them about his support for his former teammates.

Now regarding his time in West London, Muniz claims he knew about the difficulties he'd have in changing countries, but is getting the help from the Whites to settle in his new home.

"For now I just have to be grateful," Rodrigo Muniz told Lance.

"Of course there are a lot of changes, there's the language issue, the style of play, but these are things that I gradually pick up on. I'm young and it helps. In addition, I was very well received at the club, everyone made me feel comfortable and relaxed to work. I've learned and evolved a lot in recent months."

On the new football he found in the Championship, Muniz believes he's already been able to adapt to a different way of playing, and is now focused on helping his team to get the promotion to the Premier League.

"The main objective at that time was to be able to better understand how football is played here and adapt to the country. I believe that, despite the short time, I managed to evolve. I have been trying to learn, observe and, when I have the opportunity, I believe I have been able to perform well too. We have a very good team and a very united group, which is focused on pursuing our goals and we are managing to remain in the top positions."

Rodrigo Muniz joined Fulham on a €8m deal from Flamengo in the summer, and has three goals in 10 appearances for the Craven Cottage side so far.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/everyone-made-feel-comfortable-summer-signing-thrilled-first-months-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

21 goals in 18 games, but Newcastle still shouldn't re-sign former striker

With Alexander Mitrovic having an outstanding season with Fulham in the Championship, netting 21 goals in 18 games, some Newcastle United fans have been pondering whether he should be a January target.

Main man Callum Wilson has been an outstanding contributor for the Magpies in his past two seasons but has a history of picking up injuries. The only option in the squad to fill in for Wilson is Dwight Gayle, who has struggled to score consistently since the Toon returned to the Premier League in 2017.

A striker is on Newcastle's January wish-list, with Fiorentina forward Duscan Vlahovic one name in the hat. However, he is attracting plenty of attention from other Premier League clubs so Newcastle may find themselves in an intense negotiation battle.

Will the Magpies splash the cash to bring Mitrovic back?

Mitrovic is someone who provides goals for club and country. In the last international break, his stoppage time header secured Serbia's ticket to the World Cup.

Mitrovic's tally for his nation now stands at 44 goals in 69 appearances so you'd think with his recent form it would be a wise decision for the Magpies to splash the cash and re-sign the Serbian.

However, Mitrovic hasn't proved so hot in the Premier League. When he joined Newcastle in 2015/16, he scored nine goals and was the club's second-highest goalscorer behind Georginio Wijnaldum.

But it wasn't enough and the Magpies were relegated. Newcastle returned to the Premier League in 2017/18 but this time Mitrovic struggled for game time. He was loaned out to Fulham in January and signed for them that summer.

Up and down like a yo-yo with Fulham

Mitrovic helped get Fulham into the Premier League and started 2018/19 as their main striker. He netted 11 goals that season but the Cottagers were relegated too after finishing 19th. However, back in the Championship he provided 26 goals and won the Golden Boot as Fulham were promoted once more.

His second Premier League campaign with Fulham proved tough. The Serbian striker played 27 times but only came up with three goals. By the end of the season he was struggling to make the starting XI.

It seems as though the Championship is where Mitrovic ticks all the boxes. This season he's consistently finding the net again for Fulham and another Golden Boot appears a formality. If the south west London club secures promotion once more, Mitrovic will surely want another chance to prove himself in the top flight.

Newcastle should set their sights higher than Mitrovic

As Newcastle continue to seek new options up front, we think Mitrovic is one to avoid. He's a top-quality Championship striker who doesn't appear cut out for the Premiership. And you feel, should he be playing in the Premier League next season, he would want to be the main striker, whichever club he plays for.

In addition, Newcastle's owners have made it clear they're willing to spend – and big. They could invest their cash in a striker who is proven at the top level or has the potential to achieve that under the philosophy of new manager Eddie Howe.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2021/11/25/21-goals-in-18-games-but-newcastle-still-shouldnt-re-sign-their-former-striker-our-view/

[WhiteJC]

EFL expert delivers prediction for Fulham's trip to Preston North End

After going on a seven-match winning run which saw 25 goals scored, Fulham's streak was snapped by a resilient Derby County at Craven Cottage last night.

Marco Silva's side knocked on the door several times against Wayne Rooney's outfit but they just couldn't get past Kelle Roos, despite having 21 attempts of which only five were on target.

The Cottagers were missing a key outlet in Aleksander Mitrovic, who has 21 goals in 18 outings to his name but owing to an illness he was absent against the Rams.

There's no guarantee that the Serb will make it to Deepdale for a lunchtime clash with Preston North End on Saturday, with Silva confirming that several other players, including Harry Wilson and Harrison Reed, need to be checked on.

That will be music to Frankie McAvoy's ears in the dugout at North End, with the Scot under a lot of pressure to see off increasing fan dissent and pick up more wins, and against Middlesbrough on Tuesday there was a bit of a smash and grab as the Lilywhites were 2-1 victors at the Riverside.

EFL pundit David Prutton isn't expecting PNE to pick up back-to-back victories though with a 2-1 win for the visitors being his prediction.

"Preston keep picking up wins at times you don't expect it," Prutton said on his Sky Sports predictions podcast.

We saw them do a job at Bournemouth a couple of weeks ago, and then again at Middlesbrough in midweek.

"This is another tough proposition for them.

"Fulham were held by Derby in midweek and will be hopeful of having Aleksandar Mitrovic back for this one.

"They should still have enough to win and keep their spot at the top."

The Verdict

With a number of Fulham players struggling with illness, this could be a perfect time for Preston North End to pounce.

Of course even if the majority of the doubts are absent on Saturday then Silva has enough firepower to replace them from the bench, but North End picked up three points against another high-flying team a few weeks ago in Bournemouth so why can't they here?

They'd have to perform a lot better than they did against Middlesbrough though – they were comprehensively dominated for the most part before scoring from a set piece and being gifted a winner by Sol Bamba.

PNE do look frail at the back though and that must worry McAvoy going into this with Fulham having so many outlets they can score from, and I can only see a convincing away success inbound.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/efl-expert-delivers-prediction-for-fulhams-trip-to-preston-north-end/

[WhiteJC]

Is Mitrovic available to face Preston on Saturday?

Aleksandar Mitrovic has been on fire for Fulham this season. He's on track to break all scoring records in the Championship.

He's already found the net 21 times in 18 league games. It's a goal every 74 minutes and he will be causing havoc for Preston North End defenders on Saturday.

That is if he plays.

He missed the game against Derby County on Wednesday with illness and The Cottagers couldn't manage a goal in a 0-0 draw.

In his press conference ahead of the weekend, Marco Silva has revealed a lot of the squad are suffering with the illness which isn't COVID-19 related. Club captain Tom Cairney also missed the game in midweek.

Harry Wilson, Harrison Reed, Antonee Robinson and Bobby De Cordova-Reid all played the match but had been suffering beforehand and Silva confirmed they were worse off after that 90 minutes.

They're all good, key players for Fulham and will be big misses for them. But having said that they still have a decent Premier League squad left over from their two relegations in recent seasons.

It seems like late checks will be made on all the affected players but if Mitrovic ends up missing out it will be a huge bonus for North End. He only needs 12 goals to break the Championship record for most goals in a season, and we're still in November.

He's also found the net plenty of times before against Preston for both Fulham and Newcastle United. Have this weekend off please Mitro, and concentrate on getting better!



https://www.deepdaledigest.com/transfers/preston-souttar-celtic-rangers-blackpool-blackburn-transfer/

[WhiteJC]

Rodak ready for Preston return

Marek Rodak is set to return in goal for Fulham's trip to Preston on Saturday having missed last night's draw with Derby County are coming into contact with someone who had contracted coronavirus when he flew back from international duty.

Paulo Gazzaniga, who had started the season as the Craven Cottage number one, stepped in for Rodak against the Rams but the Slovakian international will be available at Deepdale this weekend. Fulham head coach Marco Silva told his pre-match press conference this afternoon:

"Marek's situation is strange. Even the day before, we had some information that everything would be okay and not a problem. "Then the next day, we were told it would be impossible for him to play. It's a bit strange because we are talking about a player who played some days before. These are the protocols, I don't want to talk about it, it's in the past but he will be available for the next match."

Silva is far from certain who else will be available for selection as the Whites look to get back to winning ways this week, with several players still feeling the aftereffects of a norovirus bug that swept through the squad earlier this week.

"It is something that we will have to check tomorrow. Not just Tom [Cairney] and Mitro but all the others as well. Of course, after the game, they will be even worse. Some of the players weren't in the best condition. It is up to us to check again, tomorrow. We will have a conversation with the doctor to check them and take the decisions for the match. It wasn't a perfect scenario with how we had to prepare. Even on the matchday, we had the situation of Marek and Mitro. There are no excuses because I think what Paulo did is a good example of what I want them to do."

Silva is certain that Preston North End will prove tough opponents in front of the Sky cameras on Saturday lunchtime.

"It will be tough to play Preston. They won their last game, and it is a tough place to play. We are in a very good moment, even if yesterday we didn't score but we created a lot of chances. We never find excuses for anything, even if something disturbs our preparation. We must look forward for the next one and try to go there to finish off the week on a high with three points."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/11/rodak-ready-for-preston-return/