Friday Fulham Stuff - 21/01/22...

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Ex-Anderlecht boss Van Holsbeek arrested for fraud including Mitrovic and Tielemans deals

January 20 – Former Anderlecht general manager Herman Van Holsbeek (pictured) has been detained by Belgium authorities in an investigation into fraud and corruption centring on agent Christophe Henrotay.

Van Holsbeek is suspected of corruption, fiscal fraud, money laundering and taking part in a criminal enterprise. The case dates back to 2019 when Henrotay was arrested in Monaco, suspected of financial crimes related to transfers involving Aleksandar Mitrovic, Chancel Mbemba and Youri Tielemans.

Van Holsbeeck is said to have accrued back dated commissions on transfers.  At the time, Van Holsbeeck was detained but released, but the case has come back to haunt him and now stands accused of swindling current Anderlecht owner Marc Coucke. Van Holsbeek had promised €3 million to Henrotay if and when the club would get sold. The pair, Belgian media say, allegedly drew up false contracts to defraud Coucke of €2 million.

Last week, Van Holsbeeck was also named in operation 'Clean Hands', the largest investigation into match-fixing and corruption in the history of the Belgian game. He is suspected of forgery and bribery.

Agent Dejan Veljkovic, who opted to collaborate with judicial authorities, claims that Van Holsbeeck received a total of €186,000 in black money from four transfers. The Serbian has also accused him of match-fixing in the crucial Anderlecht vs Club Brugge fixture in the 2017-2018 season.

Van Holsbeeck, general manager at Anderlecht between 2003 and 2018, won eight league titles with the club, but his transfer policies were often controversial.



https://www.insideworldfootball.com/2022/01/20/ex-anderlecht-boss-van-holsbeek-arrested-fraud-including-mitrovic-tielemans-deals/

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Liverpool want to sign £5m Fabio Carvalho this month but Fulham star urged to snub Reds
LIVERPOOL are showing interest in signing £5million-rated Fulham starlet Fabio Carvalho this month.

Marco Silva has told Fulham teenage hotshot Fabio Carvalho to keep his feet on the ground and not jump too soon in his bid to boost his career amid January transfer window interest from Liverpool. The Fulham starlet scored twice on Tuesday as his side thrashed Birmingham 6-2 at Craven Cottage, making it a remarkable 19 goals in three games for Silva's side, who now sit five points clear at the top of the Championship.

Carvalho, 19, has notched seven goals in 16 games this season after recovering from injury and Covid.

But Carvalho's current deal is set to run out at the end of this season, and the teenager has so far resisted any attempts to get him to agree new terms.

Liverpool have been tracking Carvalho, and are ready to make a £5million move for the teenager this month, but West Ham are also interested.

If he does not sign, Carvalho would be available for a compensation fee in the summer, so Fulham have to decide whether to cash in on their star asset now.


Liverpool want to sign £5m Fabio Carvalho this month but Fulham star urged to snub Reds (Image: GETTY)

Silva said: "I know how good Fabio can be. He has the talent to have a very good career.

"He has to keep his feet on the floor, and so do the people around him. Sometimes you want to make a step bigger than your leg can take. Sometimes you are making a big mistake.

"A football career is not just one moment - you have to prepare for the future. Fabio is a clever boy, who wants to be at the top. I hope the people advising him are doing it the right way."

The Fulham manager added: "With or without the ball Fabio is a key player for us

"He is still a young boy. We are working on his progress. Fabio gives us very good things. He has the capacity to turn and attack the opposition and create moments.

"It has been an up and down season for him with injury and covid, rumours around him that didn't help. But I always saw the same commitment."

Carvalho said: "It's been a great start to the year. It's like we started the season - strong and with confidence.

"We have been playing with style and getting goals, as well as being tidy at the back. At any moment we have it in us as a team to switch it on. I am having fun."



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1552630/Liverpool-5m-Fabio-Carvalho-Fulham-Marco-Silva-Premier-League-January-transfer-news

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Potential transfer twist revealed as Liverpool & West Ham show interest in Fulham star

Fulham are still working on a new deal for Fabio Carvalho and there is optimism at the club that the talented midfielder will sign.

The 19-year-old has been one of the outstanding performers in the Championship this season, scoring seven goals and registering two assists in 16 appearances.

Therefore, with his current contract expiring in the summer, there has been plenty of speculation that Carvalho could depart, with Liverpool and West Ham known to be among a lengthy list of admirers.

The Cottagers have been trying to agree fresh terms with the representatives of the teenager for some time, so the fact a deal remains unsigned meant many fans were resigned to losing Carvalho.

However, that may not be the case, as the Sky Sports Transfer Centre (20:53) revealed last night that the Londoners are 'hopeful' that a new contract can be reached as they are still in talks with Carvalho.

If the England youth international doesn't sign then Fulham will still be entitled to compensation should he depart in the summer because of his age as he has come through the academy at Craven Cottage.

The verdict

This is good news for Fulham fans because everyone knows how good Carvalho is, and, crucially, just how good he can be.

His goal return this season is incredible for a young attacking midfielder and his quality on the ball is clear to see, which is why he is wanted by some top clubs.

Carvalho is sure to be loving life under Marco Silva and staying at Fulham where he will play regularly is going to be an attractive option, so it will be interesting to see what happens.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/potential-transfer-twist-revealed-as-liverpool-west-ham-show-interest-in-fulham-star/

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What Matt O'Riley will bring to Celtic as mentor raves about 'terrific' ball player making up for painful lost time

The midfielder was highly rated at Fulham but Peter Grant feared back problems would cost him a shot at the big time.

Peter Grant never doubted the outstanding ability of Matt O'Riley.

So highly did he rate him, the midfielder was in his Under-18 squad at the age of just 15 during his spell as Fulham 's lead
professional development coach.

O'Riley also played in the Fulham first team by 16 and made the England Under-18s.

But Grant still feared that the teenager might be denied the chance to make it to the top.

Not through any lack of ability, but due to back problems which denied him vital playing and training time as he worked his way through the Craven Cottage youth system.

O'Riley had the tools, but just wasn't able to get them out of the bag every single day and Grant wondered if it would cost him a shot at the big time.

He explained: "When he was at Fulham, he was a young man who was growing very quickly. He had a lot of back problems.

"There was a bit of training missed as he was growing up.

"One thing he always had was a lovely left foot – when he was on the ball, he was terrific.

"But he always felt he couldn't get to the levels he wanted if he couldn't get that run of games or training sessions and it was
difficult for him because of those back problems.

"People say kids play too much, but Matt was maybe the opposite. You felt he wasn't getting enough games.

"As I said, Matt had a talented left foot and there was absolutely no problem when he was on the ball.

"But, off the ball, I felt it might be a problem.

"Even as a youngster, you question them. People run off them, or past them. That's why you need to look at the bigger picture and understand if there are reasons.

"Matt's reason is the missed training sessions, albeit through no fault of his own.

"Even as a youngster, you need to be building your game, playing consistently.

"I felt he was missing too many sessions for his own good, but it wasn't the kid's fault.

"That's the biggest thing I see when I look at his games now and the way he is playing.

"You know the talent he has and now, with the run of games, you know the issues have gone.

"We had question marks if we'd be able to go up the levels with the back issues. You just didn't know, but we knew he could play.

"We'd a very good footballing side. We had the Sessegnons and all of those guys, but we put him straight in there."

It was Slavisa Jokanovic who dished out that first top-team appearance against Wycombe in the Carabao Cup.

But, with opportunities drying up during the reigns of Claudio Ranieri and Scott Parker, he needed to make a choice in 2020.

Another Fulham contract was on the table, but O'Riley opted against signing it in the hunt for prolonged first-team action.

He trained alone in a public park before Russell Martin offered him a deal at MK Dons and, from there, he has taken flight.

A regular in the side, made captain by player-caretaker boss Dean Lewington when Martin left for Swansea and staying key in the plans under new gaffer Liam Manning.

O'Riley added strengths in Buckinghamshire. Advanced in the engine room for Martin, slightly more withdrawn under Manning.

Grant has seen the full package of fitness and finesse come together and continued: "He's had two managers [Martin and Manning] who play a certain style.

"Some people tend to forget. They look at someone and think he's a good player, but you have to ask if he can play a certain style.

"Matt's had two coaches who have teams that want to play. That's the biggest thing for him, he can handle the ball well. His left foot is lovely.

"The systems suited him because he can see pictures when he's on the ball and has goals this season with great composure.

"It was always about reaching the levels against the ball.

"But it's interesting. I watched a couple of his goals recently and there was one where he nicked the ball.

"We used to say to him that he had to get close to the opposition, even as a young man.

"He stole a ball off an opponent. It was intercepted and he put it into the net.

"That was so pleasing to see given he wasn't fit enough to do that in the past and people were always going to question him for it.

"He's got the run of games now and you need to have all assets in the modern game."

Having made 54 appearances in the last year at MK Dons, his developed body is now able to handle the rigours, meaning the skills shine and attracted the likes of Celtic.

Ange Postecoglou has made a move and Grant is thrilled his former young charge is heading for his old club at the age of 21.

He said: "That's the interesting thing for me talking about Celtic – the high tempo of their play and, obviously, they have watched him.

"If it works out, that is great and I'll be happy for him and the club. You knew the talent was always there and now he's getting the consistent games to show his talent.

"He is obviously getting the rewards with teams such as Celtic wanting him. I am delighted that Matt has done so well."



https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-transfer-news/what-matt-oriley-bring-celtic-25997170

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View: Leeds United can pull off transfer masterstroke by signing Fabio Carvalho

Leeds United can sign Fulham ace Fabio Carvalho in the January window for an absolutely bargain fee, and he would be a cracker of a signing.

According to a recent report from The Sun, a host of clubs including Leeds and West Ham are keen to sign the 19-year-old whose contract is expiring at the end of the season.

Carvalho is yet to put pen to paper, and Fulham would be open to selling him this month if they get the right offer.

It has been claimed that the Hammers are ready to pounce for the "incredible" Fulham talent, and it could take a bid of around £5 million to secure his signature.

Premier League giants Liverpool are also keen but Leeds must not miss out on this opportunity.

While signing a central midfielder is a top priority for the Whites, there is a real chance of getting a deal done for the Fulham starlet now than waiting for him in the summer, when the competition for him will be fierce.

He has made giant strides at the Championship club, managing 33 goals and 19 assists for them already. This season, he has scored seven goals and two assists.

Marcelo Bielsa loves players who are versatile and technically gifted, and that's why he ticks the bill. He can operate on either wing but he is most comfortable playing in the no 10 role.

It will be a transfer masterstroke from Bielsa if Leeds can secure a deal ahead of other suitors.

Regular followers of Championship football can vouch that he is technically sound and can develop into a top-quality player under a great manager.

Leeds board have supported Bielsa in the market whenever he felt the need to buy someone. The amount being quoted is well within their budget and at that price, it's absolutely a no-brainer.



https://motleedsnews.com/news/view-leeds-united-can-pull-off-transfer-masterstroke-by-signing-fabio-carvalho/

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Delilah's to reopen for Fulham game

Supporters are advised that Delilah's Bar will be back open for business for Saturday's game against Fulham (kick-off 3pm).

Delilah's was closed for recent games against Derby and Preston due to Covid-19 staff shortages but will be open on Saturday from three hours before kick-off until 2.50pm and then for an hour after the final whistle.


https://www.stokecityfc.com/news/2022/january/20/delilah-s-to-reopen-for-fulham-game/

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Fulham midfielder speaks out amid Liverpool and Southampton interest

Fabio Carvalho has lit up the Championship with Fulham so far this season, helping his side climb to the very top of the second tier table.

The youngster has managed an impressive nine goal contributions in just 16 league games so far this season for the Cottagers and it appears as though he has really burst onto the scene now – and shows no signs of slowing down. The player himself is thriving and has admitted to the club's official website that he is enjoying his time at Craven Cottage.

He has previously looked solid for the club's reserve side but is now flourishing in the first-team picture. His displays have even caught the eye of teams much higher in the football pyramid, with Liverpool and Southampton having both been linked with deals for the 19-year-old.

The Reds have been considering a deal as reported by The Daily Express, while the Saints are also in the running.

Fulham will undoubtedly not want to lose one of their brightest talents, especially if they end up getting promoted to the Premier League. It looks as though the side have nothing to worry about as of yet though, with the player himself admitting he is enjoying his time at Craven Cottage.

Speaking to the club's official website, Carvalho claimed: "It's fun. I'm having fun.

"It's helping having a front four contributing, putting in a shift and it helps to have Mitro [Aleksandr Mitrovic] – he's scoring half our goals at the moment. It's been a great start to the year.

"I feel like we're starting how we started the season – strong, with confidence."

Carvalho then might not be prised away from Fulham too easily – and Southampton and any other interested parties may have a battle on their hands to secure his signature.

The Verdict

Fabio Carvalho does look the real deal for Fulham so far and with the player possessing such talent, it means there is bound to be interest in him from elsewhere.

The Cottagers would do well currently to try and keep hold of him, especially with the side currently in the middle of a push for Premier League promotion. The youngster has played a big part in that and if he can secure a promotion with his current team, it would be a great experience for him.

The Championship side too will need him to stay in order to help them continue to challenge at the very top of the division. If he stays, then it could be a good arrangement for both parties then. It looks like he is enjoying his football though, which is a great sign that he won't want out yet.

If he's happy playing with Fulham, then it means he is much more likely to want to stay with them, even with Southampton and Liverpool interest. It may be tempting to jump ship for a Premier League outfit but right now, both of them are in a good place.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-midfielder-speaks-out-amid-liverpool-and-southampton-interest/

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Fabrice Muamba comments on Christian Eriksen's football return amid links with Fulham move

Fabrice Muamba has spoken about Christian Eriksen's potential return to football.

Muamba, who suffered a cardiac arrest while playing in an FA Cup game for Bolton Wanderers against Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, has revealed his concern for Eriksen, amid interest from Fulham.

Eriksen also suffered from a cardiac arrest during Denmark's opening Euro 2020 match against Finland, but is now seeking a return to football with reports linking him with a move to the Championship league leaders.

Muamba spoke about how difficult it can be to retire from football, especially when it is forced upon you like it was for him following his heart condition.

"I've said many times, football is the biggest drug ever and to be told to retire due to a condition you have no control of, it's difficult to take," said Muamba, via the Bolton News.

"I find it difficult to understand the thought process of him running around and playing in an intense area.

"Does he really need to come back and play the game? He must have some unfinished business in football.

"The more I think about it, the more worried I get. The people who are looking after Christian, they need to look at the bigger picture.

"He has a young family. I just think the risk is too much."

Eriksen hasn't appeared since the European Championship last Summer. The playmaker was previously with Inter Milan, where he won the 2020-21 Serie A title, before having to leave the club.

Serie A does not allow a player to take to the pitch with a cardioverter defibrillator, so the club agreed to terminate his contract to allow him move to another club where he is available to play.

Fulham are currently high flying at the top of the Championship table. Marco Silva's side have scored 19 goals in their last three games, to leapfrog Bournemouth and take control of the automatic promotion places.

Their next game comes against Stoke City, who are eight in the Championship. The two sides meet on January 22 at the Bet365 Stadium.

The Verdict

Muamba has spoken at length about his experiences since he collapsed during that FA Cup tie. It ended his career in tragic circumstances which must have been extremely difficult for him.

While it is understandable where he is coming from, it is ultimately up to Eriksen what he does next in his career.

The Dane will be receiving the best medical attention available and there's simply no way he could be cleared to play if they didn't believe he would be okay.

Whether or not he moves to Fulham is yet to be seen, but it is encouraging that he is looking to return to action so soon after the incident.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fabrice-muamba-comments-on-christian-eriksens-football-return-amid-links-with-fulham-move/

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Liverpool's transfer stance on Fabio Carvalho

Fabio Carvalho is considered one of the brightest young talents in the Championship

Liverpool are one of a number of clubs monitoring Fulham youngster Fabio Carvalho.

The 19-year-old's contract is due to expire at the end of the season for the Championship leaders, which has led to a host of others keeping a close eye on developments at Craven Cottage.

Liverpool, it is understood, are one of them as they continue the search for the best young talent in the country.

The Reds have made no contact with Fulham as things stands, despite reports that chief scout Barry Hunter was in attendance for the Cottagers' 6-2 win at home to Bristol City on January 15.

Liverpool, however, are keeping tabs on Carvalho's situation in west London with some reports claiming that Fulham could cash in before the close of the January transfer window.

The Reds' recruitment team believe Carvalho's level of experience at 19 and his ability to play in a number of attacking roles make him an interesting prospect as they look to continue their policy of luring the finest youngsters in England to the club.

Carvalho, who made four Premier League appearances last term, is enjoying a good season for a free-scoring Fulham side who have registered 19 goals in their last three Championship games.

The teenager has bagged seven himself in 16 games in a campaign that has been blighted somewhat by injury and COVID-19 issues.

A foot injury left him sidelined for over a month in September before complications over a coronavirus diagnosis forced him to sit out a handful of matches in October.

If a new contract is not signed at Craven Cottage, Carvalho will be available on a free transfer in the summer.

Speaking earlier this week, Fulham manager Marco Silva urged Carvalho to make sure he is being given the correct guidance as he reaches an early crossroads in his career.

"I know how good Fabio can be," said Silva. "He has the talent to have a very good career.

"He has to keep his feet on the floor, and so do the people around him.

"Sometimes you want to make a step bigger than your leg can take. Sometimes you are making a big mistake.

"I'm not saying that it will be with Fulham or club A, B or C, but sometimes you have to understand that a football career is not just in one moment - you have to prepare [for] the future as well.

"I know that Fabio is a clever boy, he is a boy that wants to be at the top, and I hope that the people that are advising him are doing it the right way.

"He is still a young boy. We are working on his progress. Fabio gives us very good things. He has the capacity to turn and attack the opposition and create moments.

"It has been an up and down season for him with injury and COVID, rumours around him that didn't help. But I always saw the same commitment."

Should Liverpool step up their interest, they are able to point to the career developments of others under Jurgen Klopp as reasons for why Anfield should be Carvalho's next destination.

Twelve months ago, Liverpool signed Kaide Gordon from Derby County after he made the breakthrough to first-team level under Wayne Rooney.

Gordon made his senior debut for Klopp in September's 3-0 win over Norwich in the Carabao Cup before becoming just the second youngest scorer of all time at Anfield when he netted in the 4-1 win over Shrewsbury in the FA Cup earlier this month.



https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/liverpools-transfer-stance-fabio-carvalho-22814498

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Fulham defender Terence Kongolo wanted on loan by Eredivisie clubs
Fulham's Dutch defender Terence Kongolo is attracting loan interest from The Netherlands, reports from his native have said.

Kongolo has struggled to make an impact since making the move from Huddersfield Town to Fulham.

Injuries have halted his progress and limited his involvement and now, the defender is being linked with a winter move away from Craven Cottage.

As per a report from Dutch news outlet de Gelderlander, Kongolo is wanted on loan by a number of clubs from The Netherlands.

It is said that the Swiss-born Holland international is poised to see out the season in the Eredivisie, with a handful of teams looking into the possibility of bringing Kongolo in until the end of the campaign.

Kongolo's situation at Fulham
The 27-year-old defender is yet to appear for Fulham under Marco Silva's management, with his only game time this campaign coming with the Cottagers' U23s in the Premier League 2.

Kongolo has played four times for the young Fulham side, helping them to wins over Newcastle United, Reading, Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough's youngsters.

The centre-back, who is also capable of playing as a left-back, joined Fulham on a permanent basis in October 2020 after a loan spell at Craven Cottage and he still has over two years remaining on his contract with the club. Not only that, but there is an option for a further 12 months included in the deal too, potentially keeping him at Fulham until 2025.

Across all competitions, the former Huddersfield and AS Monaco man has featured only four times for Fulham since joining.



https://the72.co.uk/260372/fulham-defender-terence-kongolo-wanted-on-loan-by-eredivisie-clubs/

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Preview: Stoke City vs. Fulham - prediction, team news, lineups

Leaders Fulham make the trip to the bet365 Stadium to face Stoke City looking to continue their remarkable scoring record in the Championship.

While the Cottagers hold a five-point lead at the top of the standings, Stoke are four points adrift of the playoffs with a game in hand.

Match preview

On the back of one win in six matches, which came by a 1-0 scoreline after extra time in the FA Cup, describing Fulham's attack as goal-shy would have been an understatement.

The turnaround in form has barely been believable, Marco Silva's team netting 19 times in three Championship fixtures against Reading, Bristol City and Birmingham City.

The Portuguese will be disappointed with four strikes being shipped in the latter of those fixtures, but it is arguably irrelevant given the output of the front four.

Perhaps the most impressive factor of their 6-2 win over Blues was neither Harry Wilson or Aleksandar Mitrovic got on the scoresheet, youngster Fabio Carvalho instead taking centre stage with a double.

While Silva will insist that there is a long way to go, Fulham are now playing with a swagger which does not look like disappearing anytime soon, something which will naturally concern an inconsistent Stoke side.

Michael O'Neill has been left frustrated with his team's results this season, a run of four defeats in six matches seeing Stoke move outside of the playoffs.

However, the Potters were deserved 2-0 winners at Hull City last weekend, their goals coming from Jacob Brown and a rejuvenated Tom Ince.

With an array of fresh faces moving to the bet365 Stadium, there is now a different feel to this squad, and each of the new arrivals will want to impress in a game of this magnitude.

Stoke have gone 11 matches without conceding more than two goals in a match, a streak which will surely come under threat on Saturday.

Stoke City Championship form:

    L    W    D    L    L    W

Stoke City form (all competitions):

    W    D    L    L    W    W

Fulham Championship form:

    D    D    L    W    W    W

Fulham form (all competitions):

    D    L    W    W    W    W

Team News

Having sprung a number of surprises with his team selection last week, O'Neill may stick with the Stoke XI which started against Hull.

That is dependent on Josh Tymon shaking off a knock, while the likes of Ben Wilmot, Jordan Thompson and Mario Vrancic are pushing for a return to the substitutes' bench.

D'Margio Wright-Phillips appears likely to keep his place in attack ahead of Tyrese Campbell and Steven Fletcher.

Barring any unforeseen selection issues, Silva is expected to name the same Fulham starting lineup from the Birmingham game.

A number of players were handed a rest during the closing stages, while the backline should remain the same despite their under-par performances over the past week.

Stoke City possible starting lineup:
Bonham; Harwood-Bellis, Jagielka, Chester; Smith, Ince, Allen, Clucas, Tymon; Brown, Wright-Phillips

Fulham possible starting lineup:
Rodak; Odoi, Adarabioyo, Ream, Robinson; Cairney, Reed; Wilson, Carvalho, Kebano; Mitrovic

We say: Stoke City 0-2 Fulham

Regardless of who they are playing, it is simply not realistic to back against Fulham in second-tier action right now. While we feel that Stoke will put up a stronger fight than Fulham's previous opponents, we still expect another three points for the West Londoners.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/preview/preview-stoke-vs-fulham-prediction-team-news-lineups_475792.html?cQx=NN&newsnow

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Robinson revels in Fulham's fine form

Antonee Robinson says Fulham are full of confidence following their sensational scoring streak – and says the Whites want to keep on attacking at Stoke on Saturday.

The American full-back made one goal and scored another in Fulham's latest 6-2 success against Birmingham City on Tuesday evening – and told FFCTV that Marco Silva's side are delighted with their start to the year.

"Yeah, it's been a crazy week. We weren't expecting to come back and have such a run of form like that. We've just been really dominant in our games. Everyone's really confident at the minute. Obviously, after the long break, we were all itching to get back and get some results after we got beaten by Sheffield [United]. I think on the pitch it shows that we're just hungry to keep winning."

Robinson revealed that he was very disappointed with his own display in the defeat by Sheffield United before Christmas – and was pleased to play such a prominent role in the victory over the Blues.

I had a little spell out where I felt ill, came back and I wasn't very happy about how I played against Sheffield [United]. In that long break, I was the same as everyone, I just wanted to get back on the pitch and try be more like myself again. Recently I feel like I've been playing well. It's really nice to get a goal and an assist and be involved in the amount of goals we've been scoring – so I felt great.

Fulham have scored nineteen goals in three matches over in the space of only eight days and Robinson believes that confidence will take the league leaders to Stoke this weekend in good spirits.

"Everyone's on top of the world. We just feel like we should keep going and play the way we love to play. We've seen it all season – if we play our game, we've going to win games. If we keep that confidence that we've had in the last few games, we keep going game by game, getting the results and hopefully at the end of the season it will be positive.

I don't think we are scared of anyone. I think teams will be fearing playing us, especially looking at the scorelines – not even how many goals we've scored, I think we have been playing some great football. We're going to go there full of confidence and thinking we can take all three points."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/01/robinson-revels-in-fulhams-fine-form/

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SSFC Spotlight: Marlon Fossey begins loan at Bolton Wanderers

The fullback is earning regular minutes.

When faced with consistent injury issues, clubs will often choose to cut players loose instead of giving the chance to work back to fitness, especially those yet to make an impact at the senior level. Fulham continues to stand by Marlon Fossey, signing him to a contract extension last summer. The pacey 23-year-old fullback recently embarked on a loan to Bolton Wanderers and is receiving regular playing time in League One. After several stops and starts, the former youth international may finally be ready to make an impact in England.

Born in Los Angeles, California, Fossey relocated to the island of Jersey, competing in gymnastics and athletics in addition to soccer. At 11 years old, he was scouted by Fulham while playing in a tournament, moving to the academy at a striker. The teenager was a member of the youth squads that won the prestigious Premier League International Cup and reached the final of the Super Group at the Dallas Cup.

After earning a scholarship to continue at the club, he began appearing with the reserves, playing three matches in Premier League 2. The next season, Fossey made 21 appearances, helping reach the playoffs. "To be honest, I think I'm pretty close [to the first team]," the then-prospect told American Soccer Now in 2016. "I think what I need to work on most is the physical side. We're technically trained very well at Fulham."

Over the next few years, Fossey struggled to stay on the field. In 2017/2018, he was out from August through January, and August through April the next season. Long layoffs were followed by immediate insertion into the starting lineup for the reserves, but first-team playing time remained out of reach.

In April of 2018, the club signed him to a two-year contract extension with the option for an additional season. Fulham co-owner Tony Khan praised Fossey's "personal and professional strength" after "battling back from recent injuries." The following summer, he "made a name for himself" during preseason matches, displaying technical ability and terrifying opposing defenses with his pace.

Unfortunately, Fossey suffered an injury days before the opener, enduring a long and intense rehabilitation program. After "a couple injuries and surgeries," he was stuck on the sidelines until February of 2020. His return was disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic that saw the cancelation of the remaining Premier League 2 schedule.

In August of 2020, Fossey was sent on loan to League One side Shrewsbury after the club "chased [him] for months." He made nine total appearances but suffered a knee injury in November. His loan was ended during the winter transfer window. Upon returning to Craven Cottage, the defender resumed playing with the reserve team.

Despite failing make a single senior appearance by the age of 22, Fulham signed him to another two-year contract extension, a show of faith in his abilities and potential. "I'm really appreciative that they have confidence in me and I'm grateful that I'm going to be around people and players for the next two years that I've learnt a hell of a lot from," he told the club's official website. "I aim to work as hard as I can to better myself as a player. It was difficult because no footballer wants to spend the majority of the season on the sidelines. I learnt a lot from it in terms of how to look after my body better and function better.... Every young player has the aim of playing for the First Team, and I'm going to put myself in the best position to get to that point as soon as possible."

After an unsuccessful trial with Rotherham United, Fossey made the bench for Fulham's EFL Cup fixture against Leeds United, but a loss and competition at the fullback position prevented further opportunities. He also hit a new level with his play, registering five assists in 11 reserve matches. His consistent performance and clear dominance represented the metaphorical graduation for players outside of the senior squad, necessitating a half-step up the ladder to face off against a higher level of competition.

Fossey joined League One side Bolton Wanderers on a loan through the end of the season, reportedly turning down an offer from Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. "It's a step up from [the reserves] and I'm excited for the challenge," he said. "It's a higher level and I think the more minutes I can earn myself, the higher my level will get. It's a great opportunity to test myself and whatever happens I think I'll learn a lot from it."

He has hit the ground running in Horwich, starting his first three matches and stepping into a position that has been "problematic" this season. After losses to Hartlepool in the EFL Trophy and Wycombe in the league, Fossey played 90 minutes at right wing in a 2-0 victory over Ipswich. The Trotters are currently at 17th place in the table, five points above the relegation zone. After adjusting to the "quicker tempo, intensity, and physicality," the next few months are a crucial stretch in the career of a player no longer considered a developing prospect and expected to perform as an experienced professional.

At the international level, Fossey is eligible to represent England and the United States. With the latter nation, he appeared with the U-19 and U-20 squads, winning the Slovakia Cup. The defender helped claim the 2017 CONCACAF U-20 Championship and was named to the tournament's Best XI after starting all six matches. A late injury forced him to pull out of the ensuing World Cup.

Originally a winger, Fossey was moved to fullback and plays primarily on the right side. He has "huge physical attributes" and is "good on the ball." Bolton manager Ian Evatt described him as "athletically fantastic" and "lightning fast" while being able to "handle the ball." In a recent match against Ipswich his hard tackling, accurate passing, field vision, and tenacity were on full display, an impressive and eye-opening performance from someone perhaps destined to compete at a higher level.

"I'm like most fullbacks these days," he shared after joining Bolton. "I like to have the ball in the attacking area and I like to impact the game defensively as well. I have an intensity and athleticism."

Fulham has shown a great deal of confidence in Fossey, with the owner citing him as "one to watch." While still at a nascent stage of his delayed career, the loan to Bolton provides the opportunity to gain playing time and develop. In a few years, perhaps he could live up to past potential and achieve his goal of competing for the USMNT.



https://www.starsandstripesfc.com/usmnt-americans-abroad/2022/1/20/22892019/marlon-fossey-fulham-bolton-wanderers-loan-transfer-usa-usmnt-united-states-england-call-up

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Fulham game: Guidance on Plan B protocols and COVID-19 certification

    COVID pass or negative COVID test result required to enter stadium
    Regulations apply to all supporters aged 18 and over
    Measures introduced last month by the UK Government

Supporters attending Saturday's Championship game against Fulham (kick-off 3pm) should take note of the following guidance for accessing the bet365 Stadium under the measures introduced last month by the UK Government to minimise the risk of further transmission of COVID-19.

There are three key messages for supporters:

    You need a COVID pass, or negative COVID test result
    Prepare in advance
    Arrive early

1. NEW STADIUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

To enter the bet365 Stadium, in addition to a season card or match ticket, supporters aged 18 and over will need to provide one of the following:

    DIGITAL NHS COVID PASS (preferred), or
    PAPER NHS COVID PASS, or
    NEGATIVE COVID TEST (evidence of a negative COVID test within 48 hours of kick-off)

Entry to the stadium is dependent on the supporter having an NHS COVID pass.

Supporters from outside the UK can use an equivalent to the NHS COVID pass issued in their own country as evidence of vaccinations.

Supporters' documentation will be checked by staff outside the turnstiles.

2. PREPARE IN ADVANCE

To minimise queuing to enter the bet365 Stadium, supporters are asked to please prepare in advance of reaching the stadium.

Digital NHS COVID pass

Download your digital NHS COVID pass in advance and have it ready for inspection as you approach the stadium.

This will minimise the reliance on WiFi or phone signal at the ground and reduce queues for entry to the stadium.

Click here for instructions how to receive your digital NHS pass.

Click here for instructions how to download your pass to Android or iOS devices.

Paper NHS COVID pass

If you do not have access to a mobile phone, please bring a paper NHS COVID pass.

Click here for instructions on how to receive a letter as evidence of your COVID pass status.

Negative COVID test result

If you do not have a digital or paper NHS COVID pass, please bring evidence of a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours ahead of kick-off.

For the Fulham fixture, this means a negative test after 3pm on Thursday, January 20, 2022.

The negative test can either be a lateral flow test or a PCR test.

Click here for details on how to report a negative test result with the NHS.

You will receive a text message and/or e-mail confirmation from the NHS which must be presented for entry to the stadium (rather than the physical test itself).

Proof of a negative test is not required if you have an NHS COVID pass.

Medical exemption

There are a small number of exemptions for individuals who have a medical reason which means they should not be vaccinated.

In this instance, you can use the NHS COVID Pass as a vaccinated person would. Your NHS COVID Pass will not show that you have a medical exemption.

International supporters

Please follow your own country's guidance on travelling abroad and the UK Government's guidance for entering the UK here and also adhere to the specific UK entry conditions relating to COVID here.

For stadium entry, supporters from outside the UK can use an equivalent pass to the NHS COVID pass issued in their own country as evidence of vaccinations, for example, the European EU Digital COVID certificate or USA CDC vaccination card.

Face coverings

Please bring a face mask or face covering with you.

Supporters are required to wear face coverings at all times except when at their seat.

The wearing of face coverings applies to all supporters aged 12 and over, unless medically exempt.

3. ARRIVE EARLY

With additional checking required outside the turnstiles for entry, supporters are strongly encouraged to arrive early at the bet365 Stadium. Turnstiles open 120 minutes before kick-off.

Please do not attend the match if you or a member of your party display any COVID-19 symptoms and/or are required to self-isolate.

Thank you for your patience and support in the implementation of new guidelines.



https://www.stokecityfc.com/news/2022/january/20/fulham-game--/

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Como launch Knockaert loan bid

Como are keen on taking Fulham winger Anthony Knockaert on loan for the remainder of the season, according to reports this afternoon.

Fulham are keen to see Knockaert, who has made just four appearances this season, go out on loan during the January window. The 30 year-old, signed for £15m from Brighton in 2019 after a loan spell at Craven Cottage, has slipped well done the pecking order under Marco Silva having spent the second half of last season on loan at Nottingham Forest.

The former Brighton and Leicester City winger is keen to gain more first-team football but it remains to be seen whether he will be attracted by the prospect of a move to Lombardy, with Como currently eleventh in Serie B.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/01/como-launch-knockaert-loan-bid/

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Fulham winger Anthony Knockaert subject of loan bid from Serie B side Como

Fulham have received a loan offer for winger Anthony Knockaert from Serie B side Como 1907.

Knockaert, 30, has fallen down the pecking order at Fulham and has seen limited game time since Marco Silva's arrival at Craven Cottage.

Across all competitions, the Frenchman has played just four times this season, with his only two Championship outings coming as brief appearances off the bench.

Now, as per reporter Tom Barclay, Knockaert is attracting loan interest from elsewhere.

The Sun reporter Barclay states that Fulham have received a loan offer for the former Brighton and Hove Albion star from Italian side Como 1907.

Como, who ply their trade in Italy's Serie B, are said to be looking to bring Knockaert in on loan.

Knockaert's time with Fulham
The winger joined Fulham on an initial loan deal in July 2019 before making the move permanent the following summer, bringing an end to his memorable time with Brighton.

Since linking up with the Cottagers, Knockaert has played 53 times for the club across all competitions. In the process, he has managed four goals and six assists, struggling to recapture the form shown during his time with Brighton.

He spent last season out on loan away from Craven Cottage, linking up with Nottingham Forest for the 2020/21 season. At the City Ground, Knockaert managed three goals and two assists in 35 games.

As it stands, Knockaert's contract with Fulham runs out at the end of the 2022/23 season. However, the option for a further year is included, potentially keeping him with the club until 2024.



https://the72.co.uk/260405/fulham-winger-anthony-knockaert-subject-of-loan-bid-from-serie-b-side-como/

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Marco Silva: Fulham boss focused on Premier League promotion over breaking records

Marco Silva's Fulham side have scored 70 goals in the Championship so far this season

Fulham boss Marco Silva said the club's record-breaking Championship scoring spree would count for nothing if they failed to achieve Premier League promotion.

The Cottagers became the first English team in 88 years to score six goals or more in three consecutive matches when they beat Birmingham 6-2 on Tuesday.

They sit five points clear at the top of the table ahead of their trip to Stoke on Saturday, having scored 19 goals in eight days.

"It's a consequence of our philosophy and the quality with which we are playing," Silva said.

"The numbers are there, great results in the last eight days to score so many goals is something fantastic.

"But at the end it was three games, nine points and nothing more than that.

"It has been really, really good but the stamp will be there if we get our main goal at the end of the season."

His side travel to Stoke on the back of 6-2 victories over Bristol City and Birmingham and a 7-0 win against Reading.

The last team in England to match Fulham's goal-scoring record over three matches was Chester in the 1933-34 season.

And Fulham's 70 goals so far is 26 clear of the Championship's second-highest scorers Blackburn Rovers (44).

Silva would not be drawn on a potential campaign in the top flight next season, instead preferring to focus on this year's battle for promotion.

"We are there but we have so many contenders around us," he said.

"We have quality but they have showed quality as well.

"The main thing for us is to keep focused on our main goal."

Silva added that he did not expect 19-year-old Fabio Carvalho, who scored his first career double in the win against Birmingham on Tuesday, to leave the club in the summer.

"Until now I have nothing on the table which says he will be gone," he said.

"Everything that we can do as a football club we are doing and have been doing from the beginning of the season.

"If you ask me if it's a good situation for a young boy to be coming to the last year of his contract, of course it isn't."

Carvalho joined the club in 2014 and has seven goals in 17 appearances this season.

Silva added: "We have been trying to get this done. Until now it wasn't possible, let's see if until the end of the season we can do something."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/60074909

[WhiteJC]

Birmingham City face fight to sign Fulham player as Italian club enter transfer chase

Serie B club Como have submitted a loan offer for Fulham attacker Anthony Knockaert, as per a report from The Sun's Tom Barclay.

Football League World exclusively learnt earlier in the week that Birmingham City were casting their eyes over the 30-year-old, as well as his Fulham teammate Alfie Mawson.

The exciting winger has been restricted to just two cameo appearances in the Championship this season, totalling just 21 minutes of second-tier action thus far.

Knockaert has also played twice in the EFL Cup for the Whites this season, but as things stand, he sits far back in the pecking order at Craven Cottage, with Marco Silva possessing a wealth of talent in forward positions.

Arriving at the West London club initially on a loan deal in July 2019, Knockaert's deal was made permanent the following summer, however, he has been unable to pave his way to regular first-team contention since.

All in all, Knockaert has managed to score four and assist a further six in 53 games for the Championship's current leaders.

The verdict

Knockaert has shown his ability in the Premier League and the Championship, and whilst his game time has been severely restricted this season, he would be an excellent addition at second-tier level in Italy.

He still possesses the technical ability, vision and end-product to wave his magic in England's second-tier, however, the majority of Championship clubs would probably struggle to meet his wages, especially when considering what clubs have already done in the window.

Como, who are currently in 11th place in Serie B, will be hoping to bolster their attacking options this month, and should they add Knockaert to the squad, they will be confident that they kick on during the second half of the campaign.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/birmingham-city-face-fight-to-sign-fulham-player-as-italian-club-enter-transfer-chase/

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Pre-Stoke Press Conference

Marco Silva says his players deserve credit for buying into the ideas put forward by the First Team staff.

Fulham have spent the entire season at the right end of the table, but our free-scoring form in 2022 has provided a bit of a cushion at the top.

"We are in a good moment," Silva told the press. "It's just a consequence of our philosophy, first of all, the offensive quality we are playing with, and the confidence that our players have as well.

"The understanding our players have had since the first day, they were in the right mindset to understand our philosophy, what we wanted to build and create inside this football club.

"They bought the idea, the ideas we are showing to them, which gives us more chances to win football matches. And they feel they are developing and growing as football players, and that's one of the main things for me.

"And after, the consequences are the performances and the chances that we are creating. We know the numbers are there. Great, great results last week, in eight days we scored so many goals, which is fantastic.

"But at the end, they are three games, nine points, nothing more than that."

The Whites are off to Stoke City on Saturday looking to extend our 100 per cent record this month, but Silva is a fan of what Michael O'Neill is doing in the Potteries, and is anticipating a difficult afternoon.

"Really tough test, I don't have doubts about that," he stated. "When we played against them in the first round, after the match, and even in the pre-match press conference, I said I could see very good things in their team.

"Good idea of football, good players. I think they have real quality to fight to be a contender to get promoted.

"I don't have doubts they can be there at the top, because they have quality, they have a good idea of football, in my opinion.

"It will be tough for us, because I can see the quality in their side. At the same time, we want to create problems for them.

"Fulham go there to match them and to play to win the football match. But it will be difficult, definitely."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/january/20/pre-stoke-press-conference/

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Free-scoring Championship leaders to allow defender to leave

High-flying Fulham are willing to listen to loan offers for Dutch defender Terence Kongolo.

The Championship leaders haven't needed to worry about defence in recent weeks having scored 19 goals in their last three games.

But the 27-year-old hasn't featured all season anyway, and is attracting interest from clubs in the Eredivise.

His Fulham career has been largely hindered by injuries.

At the start of the current season, he underwent knee surgery, which has kept him out of the team ever since.

The Dutch international, who has four caps for his country, has only featured four times for the under-23s squad in the Premier League Two.

After the relegation of Huddersfield Town from the Premier League, the Cottagers brought in the player on loan.

Since the move, it hasn't seemed to work out, Kongolo has only made two appearances for the side – one being when he was on loan, the other being after a £4 million move.

He was one of the standout performers for Huddersfield during their last season in the top flight.

A former Monaco man, he made 46 Premier League appearances, scoring the single goal.

Swiss-born Kongolo made a name for himself in the Eredivise for side Feyenoord and therefore got a £13.5 million move to Monaco.

The versatile defender, who can also play left-back will struggle to get a permanent move away from the club. This is due to his contact not expiring until 2024 with a potential of an extended one year.

Despite the Dutchman not playing for the Championship league leaders this season, they could still seek a replacement by the transfer deadline.

Fulham in a 'very good moment'
Fulham are the first English side to score six or more goals in three consecutive games for 88 years.

Manager Marco Silva said: "We are in a very good moment. This is a consequence of our philosophy and quality. The players understand what we're trying to create, they bought into the idea, and feel like they are developing.

"We have to be humble enough to understand the competition we are playing in. We must prove in every game that we are better than the opposition. There are so many contenders around us who have quality."



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/fulham-open-terence-kongolo-offers