Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 11/01/22...

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Marco Silva has already shared Alfie Mawson transfer stance amid Birmingham City links

It's not out of the realms of possibility that Sanderson returns, dependent on Wolves' situation, before the end of the month, but Blues boss Lee Bowyer is still keen on adding to his squad

Marco Silva wants to keep his fringe players at Fulham in the January transfer window, amid speculation linking Birmingham City with a move for centre half Alfie Mawson.

Mawson, 27, has been deputising at promotion challengers Fulham this season beneath first choice centre half pairing Tim Ream and Tosin Adarabioyo, and he's played just eight games in all competitions for the Cottagers under Silva - they include both meetings at St Andrew's in league and cup.

The defender cost Fulham nearly £20million when they signed him on a four-year contract from Swansea City in 2018, and that same contract is due to expire in the summer. The Press Association reportedly earlier this month that Blues had put forward an offer to Mawson of three and a half years, and that Fulham might consider letting him go for nothing.

Prior to Christmas, though, Portuguese boss Silva did outline that he hoped to hold onto the players on the fringes of his squad, in the event that the club are hit by further Covid set-backs in the weeks and months ahead, while adding that he wasn't intending to add to his group, who currently sit in third with two games in hand.

"At this moment we are happy. We did what we should do last summer, as it is always tough for a club after relegation," Silva told West London Sport last month.

"Unfortunately the Covid situation is back around us again and we are seeing some clubs battling with the situation. If you are look back a few weeks ago, we had a number of players out ill when it wasn't Covid. We were struggling with options as there were six or seven out.

"You look at the situation around the world now, and with some clubs here in England like Tottenham and Leicester, it's a good example of why you have to be aware and protect yourself as a football club."

ulham also have defender Michael Hector in their back-line who isn't playing regularly currently, and who as a result has been tipped to move elsewhere this month. The same goes for winger Anthony Knockaert and midfielder Josh Onomah.

Mawson said back in September that he would be ready to perform when called upon by Silva: "The gaffer said before training the other day that it's not only the starting 11 and the benches, it's all the lads who are fighting to get on the bench.

"The lads on the pitch are looking after their spot, we've got to look after ours on the bench as well, because there will be lads coming in. The healthy competition is brilliant.

"I'm ready when he wants me. He can count on me to play and count on me to be around the lads when I'm not playing. I feel like I've got a role."

Since then, he's featured just three times in the Championship, and two of those appearances have been from the bench.

Blues, meanwhile, have brought in Teden Mengi on a loan deal until the end of the season from Manchester United to replace the departed Dion Sanderson, who returned to parent club Wolves earlier this month.

It's not out of the realms of possibility that Sanderson returns, dependent on Wolves' situation, before the end of the month, but Blues boss Lee Bowyer is still keen on adding to his squad either way before January is out.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/birmingham-city-fulham-mawson-transfer-22704649

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Stansfield scores winner on U23s return

Jay Stansfield scored the winner on his return after knee surgery as Fulham's under 23s beat Nottingham Forest tonight.

The teenage striker turned home Kieron Bowie's cross to settle a tense contest at Alfreton Town. Stansfield was making his first appearance since November and grabbed his fourth goal of the season to secure a tenth straight league victory after Forest had fought their way back into the match. Steve Wigley handed goalkeeper Alfie McNally an under-23 debut whilst promoting under-18 centre back Charlie Robinson.

Stansfield returned from his period on the sidelines and looked lively from the outset – shooting agonisingly wide of the far post from the edge of the area after just three minutes. Referee Greg Rollason then waved away voicerfous Forest shouts for a penalty when Lewis Salmin tumbled under a challenge from Idris Odutayo and Andy Reid's side went close again when Will Swan had a low drive bravely blocked by Matt Dibley-Dias.

The visitors went straight up the other end and threatened themselves when Adrion Pajaziti firing an effort just off target from range. Five minutes later and the league leaders hit the front. Kieron Bowie seized upon a mix up between Alex Gibson-Hammond and Swan to win possession and sauntered past Fin Back before finding the bottom corner with a fabulous shot that gave goalkeeper Nicky Hogarth no chance.

Fulham went close to doubling their lead seconds later when Ollie O'Neill headed against the post from Luciano D'Auria-Henry's cross. The visitors were playing some lovely stuff with the Irish youth international floating a devilish ball just out of the reach of Stansfield and Bowie. By contrast, Forest had been restricted to potshots from range – with McNally called upon to keep out a powerful effort from Julian Larsson. Swan struck a drive wide as Forest finished the first period on the front foot – and the hosts got a leveller five minutes after the interval.

Parity was restored courtesy of a wonderful individual goal from Ateef Konate. There appeared little danger when he picked up possession just outside the area but the French attacking midfielder darted away from his marker and found the top corner with a magnificent curling effort. Ten cagey minutes followed before Stansfield seized his chance from close range after O'Neill had failed to make contact with Bowie's ball in.

The former Exeter forward was then foiled by Hogarth's legs when he might well have settled matters before skipper Sonny Hilton almost scored from the acutest of angles with seven minutes to go. Hogarth denied Hilton from twelve yards in stoppage time after felling Dibley-Dias in the box, but fortunately that miss was to prove academic. Another win sees the young Whites move fourteen points clear of Norwich at the top of the table.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST UNDER 23s (4-4-2): Hogarth; Gibson-Hammond (Fewster 45), Back, Mbe Soh (Hanks 70), Donnelly; Fornah, Konate, Barnes, Larsson; Swan, Salmon (McDonnell 66). Subs (not used): Wright, Collins.

BOOKED: McDonnell.

GOAL: Konate (51).

FULHAM UNDER 23s (4-2-3-1): McNally; D'Auria-Henry, Larkeche (Bowat 75), Odutayo, C. Robinson; Pajaziti, Dibley-Dias; Hilton, O'Neill, Stansfield (Tiehi 75); Bowie. Subs (not used): Borto, Araujo, Lanquedoc.

BOOKED: Larkeche, Odutayo.

GOALS: Bowie (27), Stansfield (61).

REFEREE: Greg Rollason



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/01/stansfield-scores-winner-on-u23s-return/

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McAvoy to stay with Wealdstone for rest of season

Fulham centre back Connor McAvoy has tonight extended his loan spell with Wealdstone until the end of the season.

The Scottish under-19 international has made eight appearances for the Stones since initially moving to the National League outfit on a one-month loan in October. McAvoy scored his debut at Weymouth and has helped a new-look defence, that also features fellow Fulham loanee George Wickens in goal, keep three clean sheets in his eight appearances.

McAvoy ensured cult hero status amongst the Wealdstone fans with a terrific last-ditch saving tackle that secured victory in the local derby against Barnet back in November.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/01/mcavoy-to-stay-with-wealdstone-for-rest-of-season/

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Dons boss explains why patience required after swooping for Fulham striker

Mark Robinson has outlined why AFC Wimbledon fans may have to be patient with new signing Terry Ablade's initial game time.

Ablade became the South Londoners' first signing of the January window after joining on loan from Fulham for the rest of the season.

The Finland U21 international, who scored eights goals in 11 appearances for Fulham's U23 side before making the switch to Plough Lane, was on the bench for Saturday's 2-0 loss to National League side Boreham Wood.

The Dons only had one fit recognised striker heading into the transfer window after Brentford loanee Aaron Pressley suffered a hamstring injury.

"He had Covid, so he hadn't trained for quite a while," Robinson told the South London Press of Ablade. "With Terry, we know what his main assets are, so the key thing is just getting him fit and sharp for a really busy schedule.

"He had been quite a while without a game or without training, and because he is an explosive player, his game is all about pace. It's important that we get him back really, really sharp so he can have an impact.

"When you get any signing, the fans always look forward to seeing him. I don't want to do the boy a disservice by sending him out when he isn't match fit or match sharp, especially when your game is all about explosive pace.

"I want to get the lad as sharp as we possibly can before we give him his opportunity, so hopefully he can have the impact we want."



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/dons-boss-explains-why-patience-required-after-swooping-for-fulham-striker/

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Reading vs Fulham: Match Preview 2021/22

Can the Royals pull off a shock of their own this evening?

After a humiliation against National League North side Kidderminster Harriers at the weekend, Reading return to the Select Car Leasing Stadium this midweek as they face Premier League hopefuls Fulham, hoping to secure a much-needed three points.

A victory seems like a million miles away at the moment - but as many people have said - it would be so Reading Football Club to win all three points tonight. They come up against a side that haven't been in the best form recently - but certainly have the quality to turn things around tonight and will be firm favourites going into this tie.

Is another upset on the cards though? We can't tell you that - but we do have some of the facts and stats you need to know ahead of this evening's clash.

What? Championship Matchday 24

Season? 2021/22

Who? Fulham

Where? Select Car Leasing Stadium

When? Tuesday 11th January 2022

Time? 20:00

Opposition Manager? Marco Silva

Pre-Match Thoughts
Reading:

The loss against Kidderminster seemed to be the straw that broke the camel's back for a lot of Reading supporters. A cocktail of apathy, disappointment and despair finally boiled over in Worcestershire - and it's been a long time coming after months and years of despondency. The fallout from the weekend's cup upset wasn't merely a reactionary one, that cliff edge was inching closer and closer and has been since the latter stages of the Stam era.

Although I am part of the Pauno out brigade now, I do feel sorry for him slightly, because he doesn't have a Director of Football to call upon and everything seems like a mess right now. This is why Dai, in my opinion, has weeks to save his tenure at the club.

The situation is salvageable, but the January signings need to be right, a DoF needs to come in, those who don't want the best for the club behind the scenes should go and there needs to be a proper structure at the club.

Fulham:

In terms of tonight's opponents, they haven't been in the best form recently but they will see this match as the best possible chance to get themselves back on track against a team that will be devoid of confidence following the weekend.

Not only does the atmosphere at the SCL make this a good opportunity for them, but the fact many of the players starting tonight won't have played at the weekend means there may not be a 'reaction' to such a big FA Cup upset.

Their downfall against Reading in the reverse fixture was their failure to be clinical, not their attacking intent or anything else, so rectifying this will be key for them as they look to get their first league win on the board since November.

One to Watch: Aleksandar Mitrovic

Who else could I choose for this one? Liverpool-linked Fabio Carvalho, Neeskens Kebano and summer signing Harry Wilson all deserve a shout out for their contributions going forward this term - but Mitrovic is crucial to their cause and may play a key part in determining whether they clinch a top-two spot or not.

I think Marco Silva's men and AFC Bournemouth will be the two teams to go up automatically despite Blackburn's rise - but keeping the Serbian international fit will be key and you have to credit Silva for his role in Mitrovic's rise. After such an underwhelming season during the 2020/21 campaign, he seems much happier now than he was under predecessor Scott Parker.

The Last Meeting
Fulham 1-2 Reading

TTE Stats

    Reading have failed to score in just one of their last five competitive matches - a positive stat that's much-needed!
    The Royals have won two, lost two and drawn one of their last five league meetings with the Cottagers. A reason for optimism?
    Fulham have scored just three times in their last five matches - going winless in these five games.
    However, they still have the best attacking record in the division with 51 goals in 23 matches. That should be a warning sign for today's hosts.

Predictions

My Reading lineup: Southwood, Hoilett, Dann, Holmes, Laurent, Ashcroft, Dele-Bashiru Rinomhota, Swift, Carroll, Clarke.

In goal, it probably has to be Luke Southwood after a pretty bad display from Rafael at the weekend, although the former hasn't exactly been error-free either. The occasional howler can always happen and that's just part and parcel of being a goalkeeper, but Rafael's decline in particular is a source of concern.

Let's hope Southwood can put in a perfect performance - something that will be needed if we want to have any chance of getting anything from this evening's match.

A formation change is in the offing after a shoddy display last time out. The 4-2-3-1 system just looks so uninspiring at the moment but in fairness, the manager is probably contributing to that.

Instead, we'll go with a 3-4-1-2 with Scot Dann, Tom Holmes and Josh Laurent in the centre. Laurent did a good job there at Craven Cottage and actually came over at full-time to apologise to the fans, a gesture that should have been made by most players.

Junior Hoilett starts in a deeper position on the left after putting in such a promising display against Derby, and if fit enough and cleared by the authorities to play, Tyrell Ashcroft gets another go after putting in a decent-ish display against the Rams. The rules surrounding head injuries may make his potential inclusion a doubt though.

There was a temptation to put Michael Stickland in at the heart of defence, with Laurent coming forward to take Tom Dele-Bashiru's place, but the Watford loanee retains his place in the starting lineup.

He's a lucky boy - because he didn't step up to the plate on Saturday and this is part of the reason why Danny Drinkwater drops out of the starting 11. Drinkwater was probably the player I was most disappointed with at Kidderminster, alongside Rafael.

One man that needs to improve is John Swift, who was actually half-decent in the first half last Monday but went quiet in the second 45 like he has done in recent games. We need him back at his best tonight.

Up top, it may be foolish to have two big men, but I've gone with Andy Carroll and Jahmari Clarke up top. The latter seems to have a bit of speed about him, though I wouldn't be too upset to see George Puscas start either. It's clear he doesn't thrive on his own, so this could be a good opportunity for him.

Score Prediction: Reading 0-2 Fulham



https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2022/1/11/22876171/reading-vs-fulham-match-preview-2021-22-royals-cottagers-paunovic-silva

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Reading Matchday Preview

Reading v Fulham | Tuesday 11th January 2022 | 8pm | Select Car Leasing Stadium | #REAFUL

The opposition

    Reading has so far struggled in the Championship this season, currently floating above the relegation zone having lost 11, drawn four and won eight, with one of their wins coming against the Whites earlier in the season.
    The Royals were in headlines over the weekend having been involved in a historic FA Cup match, which saw them disappointingly drop out of the competition to National League North outfit, Kidderminster Harriers.
    Tuesday night's opponents have a few recognisable names within their squad, including former Premier League players Andy Carroll, Scott Dann, and Danny Drinkwater and if you are a regular player of the FIFA games, you might remember the name Alen Halilovic, who's in-game potential once predicted him to be one of the best midfielders in the world.

Reading team news

Reading manager Veljko Paunović will be without Alen Halilovic, Felipe Araruna, Yakou Meite, Tom McIntyre and Michael Morrison. The Royals will also be without Ghanain internationals Andy Yiadom and Baba Rahman, who are competing in this year's AFCON.

Fulham team news

Marco confirmed that two players were still isolating having tested positive for COVID-19. Ivan Cavaleiro, although back training, is still a couple of weeks away from returning to full fitness and Jean Michaël Seri will be unavailable after his call-up to the Ivory Coast squad, whom he will be representing in this year's AFCON.

Weather

It is forecasted to be a dry evening in Reading but a cold one too, with temperatures predicted to be sitting at a fresh eight degrees Celcius.

Form

Reading: WDLDL

Fulham: DDDLW

Pre-match quotes

"It's going to be a difficult one, but we'll look to regroup with those who stayed in Reading, have some good team bonding with those who played 90 minutes today and with those we expect to be ready for the game."

Veljko Paunović
Reading FC Manager

"The work we did will give us a good platform for us to compete from tomorrow, for Saturday and for the rest of the season."

Marco Silva
Fulham Head Coach

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/january/11/Reading-Matchday-Preview/

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Reading FC without several players for Fulham Game

Reading boss Veljko Paunovic is set to be without a number of players for Tuesday's Championship clash with Fulham.

Alen Halilovic, Felipe Araruna, Tom McIntyre and Michael Morrison are all absent through injury.

Ovie Ejaria and Lucas Joao are doubts, while Andy Yiadom and Baba Rahman are on international duty with Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Royals will be bidding to bounce back from their shock FA Cup exit to non-league Kidderminster.

Fulham head coach Marco Silva has no fresh injury concerns.

The Cottagers played their first match since December 20 on Saturday – a 1-0 FA Cup win at Bristol City – following a Covid outbreak.

Several players continue to be absent with the virus, but Silva did not reveal which ones.

Ivory Coast international Jean Michael Seri is away at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Ivan Cavaleiro remains sidelined.



https://www.readingchronicle.co.uk/news/19838200.reading-fc-without-several-players-fulham-game/

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Harry Wilson starts: The predicted Fulham XI to face Reading this evening

Fulham will be looking to get back to winning ways in the Championship this evening when they head to the Select Car Leasing Arena to face Reading.

Since securing a 4-1 victory over Barnsley in November, the Cottagers have only managed to accumulate four points in the second-tier from their last five league fixtures.

As a result of this dip in form, Fulham have been overtaken by Blackburn Rovers in the league standings.

Set to face a Reading side who will be determined to deliver a response to their shock FA Cup defeat to Kidderminster Harriers in tonight's fixture, the Cottagers know that they will need to be at their best in order to secure a positive result on their travels.

After opting to rotate his squad for the club's clash with Bristol City last weekend, it will be intriguing to see whether Marco Silva makes some significant alterations to his team today.

Here, we have decided to take a look at how Fulham could line up against Reading...

Having utilised the 4-2-3-1 formation on numerous occasions this season, Fulham are likely to deploy this particular system tonight.

Goalkeeper Marek Rodak is expected to return to the club's starting eleven after being rested for the club's cup clash with the Robins.

Tim Ream will also be recalled by Silva and will be determined to produce a positive performance alongside Tosin Adarabioyo in the heart of defence.

Antonee Robinson and Kenny Tete will feature in the full-back roles whilst Harrison Reed could be partnered in central-midfield by Tom Cairney who has made 10 appearances for Fulham in all competitions this season.

Fabio Carvalho is set to line up in a more advanced central role whilst Neeskens Kebano and Harry Wilson are both expected to regain their places in Fulham's side.

Wilson produced an impressive cameo display against the Robins as he scored the winning goal for his side in this particular clash.

The Wales international has now provided an impressive total of 14 direct goal contributions for Fulham this season and will be brimming with confidence heading into this evening's fixture.

Having already scored 22 goals at this level during the current campaign, Aleksandar Mitrovic will fancy his chances of adding to this tally when he leads the line for Fulham as Reading have only managed to keep three clean-sheets at this level.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/harry-wilson-starts-the-predicted-fulham-xi-to-face-reading-this-evening/

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Blackpool Tickets On Sale

Tickets for Fulham's home league clash with Blackpool at the end of the month are now on sale.

Fulham welcome The Tangerines to Craven Cottage on Saturday 29th January, kick-off 3pm.

Tickets for this fixture go on sale initially to 2021/22 Members at 10am on Tuesday 11th January, with Season Ticket Holders then able to purchase additional tickets from 10am on Thursday 13th January.

All remaining seats will then go on General Sale* to all supporters at 10am on Monday 17th January with supporters able to purchase a maximum of six tickets per person. Supporters wishing to become a 2021/22 Member can do so by clicking here.

*Please note, all ticket bookings will be monitored and any bookings made by supporters who live in Blackpool (and local areas) who do not hold a booking history with Fulham FC will be cancelled.
PRICES
Stand    Block    Adult    Concession/Young Adult    Junior
Hammersmith    All Blocks    £30    £25    £15
Putney    P1, P2, P3, P4    £30    £25    £15
Johnny Haynes    E, EL, F, FL    £45    £40    £25
Johnny Haynes    Remaining Blocks    £35    £30    £15
HOW TO BUY

Fans can now secure their seats online at tickets.fulhamfc.com or by calling the Fulham FC Ticket Office on 0203 871 0810.

BUY TICKETS

More information can be found here.

Please note, supporters will need to ensure they are logged in to their OneFulham Account and have linked their ticketing account in order to purchase online. For more information on the OneFulham Account, please click here.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/january/11/blackpool-tickets-on-sale/

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Up next: Reading (a)

Fulham's first league fixture since before Christmas is a tantalising one. On paper, it looks like a very good time to play Reading. Dumped out of the FA Cup at Kidderminster amidst rancour amongst the fan base, the Royals haven't won in four matches and Veljko Paunovic is under serious pressure. The Serbian has to juggle an injury crisis and coronavirus complications with a couple of key players representing Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations. But Reading were on a similarly dismal run when they turned up to Craven Cottage with a makeshift defence in September to inflict a first home defeat on Marco Silva's side – so who knows what will happen in Berkshire this evening?

Paunovic will likely rely on a core of old stagers to drag his side away from their precarious position just above the relegation zone – should he get the opportunity to continue (there were strong suggestions that his services would be dispensed with following a shambolic showing at Aggborough). Danny Drinkwater has already displayed his battling characteristics against the Whites this season, coming off the bench to shore up the Royal rearguard as they held on for an unlikely victory, whilst Scott Dann is the sort of uncompromising defender who is always primed for battle. Andy Carroll came in on a short-term deal before Christmas and quickly demonstrated that he still knows where the goal is. The biggest disappointment has to be that the prodigiously talented Alen Halilovic can't seem to stay fit.

Perhaps the biggest positive for the home side is that it is difficult to judge what sort of Fulham they will come up against this evening. Silva's side were scratchy at Ashton Gate in the FA Cup on Saturday, understandable when you consider that they hadn't played in just under three weeks, and only began to dominate when a number of rested first-teamers were introduced as substitutes. The swashbuckling early season football had given way to a more haunted, hesitated air in the weeks prior to the postponements and there is more than a suspicion that Championship sides have now cracked the code and come up with a way to nullify Fulham's main way of playing. No wins in five league games is relegation rather than promotion form – which is why Harry Wilson's Westcountry fluke was so important.

Silva's pre-match press conference yesterday majored on the importance of getting back to the nitty gritty of league action but the precise composition of his starting eleven is difficult to land upon. Ivan Cavaleiro is definitely out and the head coach referred to a couple of other players still dealing with the after-effects of coronavirus. Personnel will be pivotal, as always, but there will be a need to start at a high tempo and move the ball quicker than during Fulham's previous outing. It is noticeable that Silva has been seething on the touchline at his side's lack of intensity of late: no surprise when you consider the passivity of recent performances.

Seeing Wilson on the scoresheet again after a barren period will also give the Welshman a real lift – regardless of how the ball hit the net. He was almost talimsanic in the early part of the season and has a habit of drifting out of matches if the passes don't follow those clever runs inside. Aleksandar Mitrovic remains the major goal threat, but talk that Reading could switch to the sort of 3-4-1-2 system that has flummoxed Fulham since November could both cut off the Serbian's service and pose problems at the other end of the pitch.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Rodak; Tete, A. Robinson, Adarabioyo, Ream; Reed, Cairney; Wilson, Carvalho, Kebano; Mitrovic. Subs: Gazzaniga, Hector, Odoi, Chalobah, Francois, Decordova-Reid, Muniz.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/01/up-next-reading-a-3/

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Newcastle transfer news: Fresh 'marquee signing' claim emerges over 119-goal 'great player'

Journalist Keith Downie reckons that ex-Fulham striker Moussa Dembele would be a "marquee" signing for Newcastle.

Eddie Howe is desperately trying to improve his squad this month given Newcastle's position in the Premier League table, with a striker near the top of his priority list.

Lyon's Dembele is currently on their radar and whilst Downie couldn't provide a concrete update on the Magpies' pursuit, he admitted that signing the Frenchman would be a real statement.

What's the latest news with Dembele?

Newcastle have been linked with a host of strikers since the window opened, and according to the Daily Mail, Dembele is on that list.

Dembele is no stranger to English football fans. He scored 19 goals for Fulham between 2014 and 2016 before he earned a move to Celtic, where he would bag another 54 in under 100 appearances.

His outstanding goalscoring record caught the attention of French giants Lyon, who paid £19.7m for his services. Dembele would repay them by scoring 20+ goals in each of his first two seasons.

However, the last two years have been a struggle for the 25-year-old, who endured a failed loan move to Atletico Madrid last season, whilst he's scored just four goals in 12 matches this term.

But Dembele has an fine record at Fulham, Celtic and Lyon, netting 119 goals in total in under 300 games. Therefore, Downie reckons that Dembele, who was compared to the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, and Thierry Henry by Zinedine Zidane back in 2017, would be a huge coup for Newcastle.

What did Downie say about Dembele?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "I don't have any news on whether they have gone for him, but I think he would be a marquee signing. He's a great player, he can play up front on his own."

How big of a coup would this be for Newcastle?

Make no mistake, this would be a sensational signing for Newcastle.

Dembele, who's liked by both Howe and Nick Hammond, has serious European pedigree and whilst he has never played in the Premier League, he has proven himself in the Champions League, notably scoring twice against Manchester City in the 2019-2020 quarter finals.

Furthermore, Dembele has pretty much scored goals wherever he has gone, besides a short spell in Madrid that didn't go as planned. Therefore, if Newcastle can get this one over the line, it would send a clear message out to their relegation rivals that they mean business this month.



https://www.givemesport.com/1817524-newcastle-transfer-news-fresh-marquee-signing-claim-emerges-over-119goal-great-player

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Report: Fulham, Blackburn and Stoke want Nottingham Forest linked Josh Bowler

Nottingham Forest are facing fierce competition to sign Blackpool winger Josh Bowler. According to TEAMtalk, Fulham and Blackburn have joined the Reds and Stoke in the race to sign the 22-year-old.

Bowler has been a big hit for the Tangerines this season. He signed on a free after being released by Everton in the summer and has become a mainstay in the team.

The youngster has scored once and claimed three assists, showcasing the versatility to play in a number of attacking positions.

Blackpool do have an option to extend the player's deal by another year. Even if they take that, there could still be some pressure on the club to offload Bowler if the right offer comes in.

The former QPR trainee's career has taken on an upward curve at Blackpool. After failing to make the grade at Everton, the Tangerines took him on as a low-risk signing.

He's showcased that he's a capable performer and it's no surprise to see Forest chasing his signature.

The Reds will be in the market for another attacking player. Alex Mighten and Joe Lolley are both injured, leaving Brennan Johnson and Philip Zinckernagel as Cooper's only proven options.

Quality: Forest could do a lot worse than Bowler

The Reds are seeking reinforcements. Forest have a relatively young squad and that's something that Dane Murphy and Steve Cooper will look to try and continue.

Younger players with significant sell-on value will remain the order of the day and that should delight Forest fans.

Bowler is a solid performer. He is pretty quick, loves to take players on and is a nightmare for defenders to pick up.

With Fulham, Blackburn and Stoke in the mix, Forest must move quickly to try and get a decent addition over the line.



https://www.nottinghamforest.news/2022/01/11/report-fulham-and-blackburn-eye-nottingham-forest-linked-josh-bowler/

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Rinomhota starts: The predicted Reading FC XI to face Fulham tonight

Reading will be desperate to bounce back from their humiliating FA Cup loss against sixth-tier outfit Kidderminster Harriers at the weekend, as they take on automatic promotion candidates Fulham this evening.

Returning to the Select Car Leasing Stadium for this clash, the home advantage could prove to be either a blessing or a curse for the Royals who will need their supporters' backing tonight, though the atmosphere surrounding the club's fanbase may make this return a dreaded one.

Fielding a much-changed side in Worcestershire at the weekend, the likes of Andy Carroll and Scott Dann will be fresh as they go into what will be a tough game against Marco Silva's side, despite this evening's visitors failing to win any of their last five league matches.

The Royals haven't fared much better though, going winless in their previous four competitive matches and are currently hovering dangerously above the drop zone with just three points separating them and 22nd-placed Peterborough United at this stage.

With Derby County seemingly on the rise too, Veljko Paunovic's men will be desperate to win all three points to alleviate pressure off themselves and their manager who could be in real danger of losing his job unless results improve.

But who will be trusted to bring home a point or three for the Berkshire outfit tonight? We have predicted the potential lineup Paunovic may go with tonight.

In goal, Rafael Cabral made costly errors at the weekend and didn't do himself any favours in terms of regaining the number one goalkeeping jersey, so Luke Southwood comes in to start despite his own error against Derby last Monday.

Baba Rahman and Andy Yiadom's inclusions at the African Cup of Nations presents a real problem for the Royals' boss, who may decide to switch to a back three to reduce the defensive responsibilities youngster Tyrell Ashcroft has to take on.

If he's cleared to play, following a vision problem against the Rams, he is likely to start again with another wide option in Junior Hoilett dropping slightly deeper on the left-hand side to take up a wing-back role.

Scott Dann, Tom Holmes and Josh Laurent all start at centre-back with the latter coming on at half-time at Kidderminster to take his place in the backline – and this could potentially help to tighten up a defence that can't buy a clean sheet at the moment.

In midfield, Tom Dele-Bashiru is probably lucky to remain in the starting lineup after failing to impose himself on the game at the weekend – but one man that isn't so lucky is Danny Drinkwater who was particularly poor and should probably remain on the bench in favour of Andy Rinomhota who made his long-awaited return last Saturday.

His inclusion depends on whether he's fit enough to play a full 90 minutes though.

John Swift also returns – but needs to do more after going quiet in recent games. He could be crucial to the home side's cause tonight and after a reasonably bright first-half display against Derby, he's certainly one to look out for.

The three in midfield leaves Paunovic able to play two up top – and in a potential last roll of the dice – he may place his faith in Jahmari Clarke to be an effective attacking partner to ex-England international Andy Carroll.

Having two physical players up top may cause the Cottagers real problems, so this is definitely an option for the Berkshire club to think about as they remain desperate to get three points on the board.

This selection may be unorthodox – but that's what may be needed to save his job – clearly needing to change things up after seeing his 4-2-3-1 system fail at the weekend.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/rinomhota-starts-the-predicted-reading-fc-xi-to-face-fulham-tonight/

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Fossey & Charles home debuts? Bolton Wanderers predicted team vs Wycombe

A look at the side that Ian Evatt could name for this evening's League One clash

Bolton Wanderers play at home for the first time since the end of November this evening when they host Wycombe in League One.

Ian Evatt's side take on the Chairboys this evening at the University of Bolton Stadium as Wanderers aim to return to winning ways in the division.

This rearranged fixture takes place after the original match before Christmas was called off following a Covid-19 outbreak at Bolton.

Wanderers will be aiming for revenge for the defeat at the hands of the Chairboys earlier this season, when Sam Vokes' header proved to be the difference in a tight encounter.

Looking back at the 1-0 loss at Adams Park in November, Evatt said: "That was another hard luck story and another moral victory which I can't stand, we've had loads of those this season.

"We know what Wycombe are like, we know what they're going to do, we know what we're going to come up against. They ask you so many questions defensively and we need to stand up to it, but we do also have to be us and get back to being us and I thought Tuesday was the first real signs of us controlling the game with the football again in a transitional game.

"We did well at Rotherham but it was very transitional and that's something that we don't really want or like. We prefer to have the ball, control the game with the ball and we did that at Hartlepool and hopefully we can do that tomorrow night.

"Playing at home suits us, a big open space, very good pitch and hopefully we can control the game with our possession and then take our chances which we will create."

Luke Hutchinson has been recalled from a loan spell at Atherton Collieries, but Joel Dixon is anticapted to remain as the club's number one stopper for now.

In defence, Gethin Jones will step up his return from injury earlier today against Accrington Stanley for the reserves, so Marlon Fossey is likely to be handed his home debut at right-back.

In the heart of defence, Ricardo Almeida Santos could be partnered by Will Aimson, with Declan John as left-back.

In central midfield, MJ Williams is likely to be partnered by the fit again Kieran Lee after his Covid recovery, as well as George Thomason.

And Dion Charles could play for the first time as a Bolton player at the UniBol this evening through the middle, with Elias Kachunga on the right and Dapo Afolayan on the left the likely players either side of him.

Bolton Wanderers predicted team vs Wycombe Wanderers: Dixon; Fossey, Santos, Aimson, John; Williams, Lee, Thomason; Kachunga, Charles, Afolayan.



https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/bolton-predicted-team-wycombe-wanderers-22710637

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Marco Silva makes transfer admission on Fulham's Terence Kongolo

Fulham manager Marco Silva believes a loan move for Terence Kongolo would be a 'very good solution' for him at this stage, speaking to The Athletic's Peter Rutzler.

The 27-year-old was forced to undergo a knee operation in the latter stages of last term, spending the opening stages of the season absent because of this long recovery phase but failing to gain the fitness since to force his way into Marco Silva's plans.

This has meant he's failed to appear in a single matchday squad for the Cottagers this season, let alone managed to win a senior appearance at Craven Cottage during the 2021/22 campaign after appearing just four times for the promotion chasers since his arrival at the club.

First joining the west London outfit in January 2020, initially on a loan deal from current Championship rivals Huddersfield Town, this is a very disappointing record for the Dutchman who would have been eager to kick on in the English capital.

With current boss Silva not even considering the 27-year-old despite his return from injury, the writing seems to be on the wall for Kongolo who may seek a fresh start elsewhere as he continues to remain down in the pecking order.

The club's reported desire to keep Alfie Mawson and Michael Hector also looks set to provide him with a potentially bleak future at Fulham – and the Cottagers' manager has now opened up about the outcast's current situation.

He said: "You haven't seen Terence because he wasn't in the condition, that's the main thing.

"One thing is to train, the other is to be in condition to compete at a high level, at a high intensity.

"Kongolo, wasn't and is still not, in this condition. He needs to play more. He needs to play games.

"A loan option would be a very good solution for him, because he's a player that we believe has the quality, and needs to play more games and go somewhere where he can play."

The Verdict:

Kongolo's injury record must not only be a real source of frustration for the player himself, but also Fulham who know the talent he has but isn't reliable enough at this stage to be a viable option for them.

With Tosin Adarabioyo, Tim Ream, Alfie Mawson and Michael Hector available as others options and the Cottagers only operating with two central defenders, having the Dutchman fit would allow Silva to focus on other areas in the transfer market.

But many would agree with the promotion chaser's boss that he needs a fresh, temporary start elsewhere to build up his match fitness and prove he can be a real asset going into the next campaign, whether the club remains in the Championship or go on to ply their trade in the Premier League.

They may not have a choice in terms of letting him go permanently or temporarily – because most clubs would be hesitant to opt for the former knowing his strugglers in the last two years and in the hope of getting him fully fit for the long term – his current side won't want to cash in on him now in case he becomes a real asset in the future.

His contract doesn't run out until 2024 though, so they won't have the tough call on whether to offer him a new deal or not at the end of this campaign.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/marco-silva-makes-transfer-admission-on-fulhams-terence-kongolo/

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'He needs to play' – Fulham boss admits Terence Kongolo could leave on loan this month
Fulham boss Marco Silva has said a loan move for Terence Kongolo would be a "very good solution" as he bids to give the Dutch defender more game time.

Kongolo, 27, is yet to feature in one of Marco Silva's Fulham squads this season.

A knee injury and fitness issues have disrupted his campaign, limiting him to only four appearances in the Premier League 2.

However, the January transfer window presents Fulham with a chance to offload the out of favour defender, and Cottagers boss Silva has now admitted that a temporary move away could be best for Kongolo.

As quoted by reporter Peter Rutzler, Silva revealed that a loan move could be a "very good solution" for the former Huddersfield Town man, expressing that he needs to pick up more game time.

Also on Kongolo specifically, Silva says a loan could work for him: "You haven't seen Terence because he wasn't in the condition, that's the main thing. One thing is to train, the other is to be in condition to compete at a high level, at a high intensity...

— Peter Rutzler (@peterrutzler) January 10, 2022

With a few weeks remaining of the transfer window and Silva open to a possible loan exit for Kongolo, it awaits to be seen how the situation develops over the course of the month.

Kongolo's time at Craven Cottage
The four-time Netherlands international has endured an injury-hit time with Fulham since first joining on an initial loan deal in January 2020. Kongolo's move was then made permanent in October 2020, but he has played only four times for the club.

Kongolo has struggled with injuries and fitness since his arrival, so a loan move elsewhere could help kick his Fulham career back into action.

He still has two-and-a-half years remaining on his contract, with his deal running out in the summer of 2024.



https://the72.co.uk/259667/he-needs-to-play-fulham-boss-admits-terence-kongolo-could-leave-on-loan-this-month/

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Reading FC vs Fulham FC: Match Preview

Reading FC will look to bounce back from Saturday's demoralising FA Cup third round exit at the hands of Kidderminster Harriers when Fulham arrive at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Tuesday (Kick-off: 8PM).

The Royals last won on home soil when they beat Barnsley on October 16th and the clash with the promotion-chasing Cottagers will prove a stern test to change that.

Team News
As has been the case for months now, under-fire Reading manager Veljko Paunovic will be without a host of players for Tuesday's game.

Long-term absentees Yakou Meite, Michael Morrison and Tom McIntyre will all miss the game while it's expected to come too soon for Lucas Joao and Ovie Ejaria.

Neither Alen Halilovic nor Felipe Araruna will be available to Paunovic after the duo suffered injuries in the defeat to the Harriers. However, those rested on Saturday including Andy Carroll, John Swift, and Junior Hoilett should all return to the squad.

Full-backs Andy Yiadom and Baba Rahman will miss Fulham and most of Reading's January fixtures as they are away with Ghana for the Africa Cup of Nations.

The visitors' on the other hand are expected to be able to field a nearly full-strength side with no fresh injury concerns although they are still dealing with Covid absences, the details of which manager Marco Silva has declined to comment on.

Form Guide
As all Reading fans know, the last month or two in Berkshire has been...rough. Just two wins in their last ten Championship fixtures has placed Reading in trouble, three points clear of the relegation zone.

Last five: DLDWL

If there's one thing that Royals can take confidence from it's that Fulham's own form over the last months has been far from flawless. After winning seven on the trot between October and November, Fulham are winless in their last five - drawing four of them.

Silva's side did get back on track somewhat at the weekend with a 1-0 win against Bristol City in the FA Cup, their first game since December 20th due to Covid postponements.

Last five: LDDDD

Opposition Danger Man: Aleksandar Mitrovic
Not a particularly adventurous choice from us, Mitrovic is not only Fulham's biggest threat but likely the scariest opposition player in the Championship right now.

After struggling last season in Fulham's doomed Premier League campaign, Mitrovic has returned with a vengeance this term. The Serbian has already notched 22 goals and five assists in just 22 Championship matches this season.

A clinical finisher and a nightmare to defend against in the air, Reading will have to stop Mitrovic if they are to get anything from this game.

Last Time Out: Fulham 1-2 Reading, September 18th, 2021
Ah, at last, some reason for optimism perhaps? While it will take a mammoth job to grab three points on Tuesday evening, at least the blueprint for success against Fulham is there.

On a bright September afternoon, Fulham held 65% of the ball while amassing 25 shots to Reading's eight. Yet, none of that mattered as Ovie Ejaria struck in the 19th and 53rd minutes to put Reading 2-0 up at Craven Cottage. A late Muniz Carvalho goal made things nervy, but Reading held out for a huge victory.

Predicted Reading XI:
Southwood; Holmes, Dann, Moore, Bristow; Laurent, Drinkwater, Swift; Dele-Bashiru, Hoilett; Carroll

The big question for Veljko Paunovic will be what he does about the gaping hole Reading have at left-back. With Baba-Rahman off on international duty and no other recognised senior left-back in the squad, some tinkering will be needed.

One option could be a back five with Holmes sliding in as the third centre-back and Dejan Tetek operating at the right-wing-back role. Left-wing-back could then go to Junior Hoilett or even youngster Ethan Bristow who would have more support in a back five.

Otherwise, it will likely have to be Bristow at left-back or another player operating out of position. Many Royals would like to see a more adventurous team selection with two up top - what side would you pick? 



https://www.readingchronicle.co.uk/news/19839380.reading-fc-vs-fulham/

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Fulham boss Marco Silva ready to let stalwart leave in January

Fulham manager Marco Silva looks set to actively search for a loan exit for Terence Kongolo, per a report.

The Dutch defender joined Fulham from Huddersfield during the 2020/21 season. However, but he hasn't been seen under new manager Marco Silva. Now the Cottagers boss views loaning out Kongolo as a 'very good solution', according to Football League World.

The former Monaco defender suffered a knee injury at the back end of the 2020/21 season that required surgery. His lack of fitness, due to the knee injury, has kept Kongolo out of any matchday squad's this season.

Silva wants to keep fellow defenders Alfie Mawson and Michael Hector. Meaning, his chances of breaking into the first team are extremely slim.

Fulham's manager spoke on the 27-year-old's lack of game time this season and his desire to find a loan.

Speaking to The Athletic, he said: "You haven't seen Terence because he wasn't in the condition, that's the main thing.

"One thing is to train, the other is to be in condition to compete at a high level, at a high intensity.

"Kongolo, wasn't and is still not, in this condition. He needs to play more. He needs to play games.

"A loan option would be a very good solution for him, because he's a player that we believe has the quality and needs to play more games and go somewhere where he can play."

Kongolo's current contract with the Cottagers runs through 2024. So, whilst a permanent move isn't completely impossible, he looks set to be finding a club on loan in January.

Knockaert could be next to leave

Fulham are reportedly ready to hear offers for Anthony Knockaert.

The former Brighton and Hove Albion man has struggled for game time under Marco Silva. He has only played 21 minutes of Championship football this season, and he was left out of Fulham's FA Cup squad when they faced Bristol City this past weekend.

Knockaert spent last season on loan at Nottingham Forest, and he doesn't appear to be a part of the long-term plans at Craven Cottage.

Silva admitted he will oversee a few exits in January, saying: "We have a big, big squad and there is the possibility of some players leaving the football club, even in a Covid situation where we have a lot of games in a row."



https://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/marco-silva-let-terence-kongolo-leave-january

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See Reading v Fulham Live on FFCtv

Supporters outside the UK & Ireland can watch Fulham's first league outing of 2022 live on FFCtv.

The Whites return to EFL Championship action after a three week absence, away to Reading on Tuesday evening, 11th January.

Supporters overseas can watch the match unfold live on FFCtv with coverage beginning at 7:30pm and kick-off at 8pm (GMT).

Secure your one-off Reading v Fulham Match Pass now for just £10, or sign up for a Half Season Pass - priced at £85 - offering overseas fans savings compared to purchasing individual game passes on a match by match basis.

Please note, this match is not available to view in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. An FFCtv monthly or 21/22 FFCtv Season Pass (Worldwide - Excludes Live Video) pass will not provide access to watch.

FOLLOW THE ACTION ON THE MATCH CENTRE & APP

Live video and live audio commentary is available for this match.

To watch or listen live, fans must have an active FFCtv subscription with the correct entitlements, as well as be logged in to their OneFulham Account.

Supporters can watch or listen;

    From the Reading v Fulham Match Centre
    At tv.fulhamfc.com
    Via the Official Fulham FC App (iOS and Android).

For matchday support, visit our streaming guide or FAQs, or contact [email protected]



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/january/10/watch-reading-fulham-overseas/

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Huddersfield clash selected by Sky

Fulham's home fixture with Huddersfield Town next month has been selected for live coverage by Sky Sports.

This means the fixture, previously scheduled to kick off at 3pm on Saturday 19 February, will now start at 12.30pm to be shown on Sky Sports Football.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/01/huddersfield-clash-selected-by-sky/