Friday Fulham Stuff - 11/02/22...

[WhiteJC]

Marco & Mitro Nominated

Marco Silva and Aleksandar Mitrović have been nominated for Sky Bet Championship Manager and Player of the Month, respectively.

January was a terrific month for Fulham, with four wins and a draw from our five matches, during which we scored 23 times.

Of those, Mitrović was responsible for six, while he also laid on a couple of assists for teammates in his four appearances.

Mitro's competition comes from Dan Grimshaw (Blackpool), Antoine Semenyo (Bristol City) and Chris Willock (QPR), while Marco is up against Steve Cooper (Nottingham Forest), Nathan Jones (Luton Town) and Mark Warburton (QPR).

The winners will be announced on Friday morning.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/february/10/marco-and-mitro-nominated/

[WhiteJC]

Silva shortlisted for manager of the month

Fulham head coach Marco Silva has been shortlisted for the Championship manager of the month award.

The Portuguese head coach led the Whites to four wins and a draw from their five matches in January, consolidating their position at the top of the table. The Londoners scored a remarkable 23 goals over the course of the month as Silva's penchant for attacking football was firmly in evidence.

He is joined on the shortlist for the accolade by Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper, QPR's Mark Warburton and Luton Town boss Nathan Jones. The winner will be announced tomorrow morning.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/02/silva-shortlisted-for-manager-of-the-month/

[WhiteJC]

Mitrovic nominated for player of the month

Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic is among the nominees for the Championship player of the month award.

The Serbian striker scored six goals in January and added a four two assists as the Whites firmly established themselves at the top of the table. The 27 year-old was at the double at Reading after Fulham's long festive break and bagged a first half hat trick at Bristol City before scoring against Blackpool. His outstanding tally of goal involvements is all the more remarkable considering that he missed the win at Stoke City after catching coronavirus.

Mitrovic's competition for the award, which he won in October, comes from Blackpool goalkeeper Dan Grimshaw, Bristol City's striker Antoine Semenyo and QPR midfielder Chris Willock.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/02/mitrovic-nominated-for-player-of-the-month/

[WhiteJC]

Napoli set to make permanent approach for Fulham star

Serie A outfit Napoli will make an attempt to recruit Fulham midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa but will request a discount as part of the deal, as per a report from Tutto Mercato Web (via Sport Witness).

The 26-year-old effectively handed in a transfer request to officials at Craven Cottage in pre-season due to his desire not to play in the Championship – and that proved to be the reason why he was left out of Marco Silva's squad for their opening league game of the 2021/22 campaign against Middlesbrough.

This came as something of a surprise considering he was due to be one of the Cottagers' most integral players this term – and he was included in the first team after that – making three league appearances before securing a move to the Italian top division.

Luciano Spalletti's side have the opportunity to make this temporary deal a permanent one for a fee believed to be in the region of €15m, a cut-price deal they may be willing to pounce on with the Cameroonian signing a contract extension in the English capital before travelling across Europe, allowing Silva's side to hold out for a respectable fee for his services.

An injury may have disrupted his progress in the latter stages of November and early stages of the following month – but he has been one of the first names on the teamsheet for the Europa League outfit and played an integral part in his nation winning a third-place medal at the African Cup of Nations.

Even with a cheap deal in the offing though, with the Cottagers forking out a £22.3m fee to lure him away from Marseille back in 2018, Napoli are intending to try and reduce his permanent fee further according to Tutto Mercato Web.

The same outlet believe the Italian club will soon be in contact with Anguissa's parent side regarding this agreement – and may be prepared to pay the full €15m needed to recruit him on a longer-term contract even if the latter refuse to lower their demands.

The Verdict:

You can't exactly blame Napoli for wanting to get a better deal for themselves – because they already have the existing agreement to fall back on if they are unsuccessful in this mission to reduce his price tag further.

However, €15m is already cheap enough for a player of his quality and if it came to it with the Cottagers likely to be in the Premier League next term, Silva may be able to utilise him.

A man of his calibre will only help in their quest to stay afloat if they manage to get themselves back to the top tier – and he would cost them nothing except his wages considering they already have him on their books.

But you could also argue he's already gone past the point of no return having expressed his desire to leave the club – trying to make an escape when the chips are down instead of playing in the second tier for a season.

Some may say this decision was taken with one eye on AFCON – but a midfielder of his quality is likely to be selected regardless of his current division and that's reinforced by the inclusion of Middlesbrough's James Lea Siliki, who has rarely played for the Teesside club in recent times.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/napoli-set-to-make-permanent-approach-for-fulham-star/

[WhiteJC]

Games for the weekend 12/02
We're on our travels again, this time to the MKM Stadium to play Hull for a 3 o'clock kickoff.

So after the mid-week games we're 6 points in front of Bournemouth, we've played the same number of games, 8 points in front of Blackburn who have played 31, 9 in front of QPR, 29 games, 12 in front of Huddersfield, 31 games and 15 in front of Forest, 30 games. I can't remember a season when we've been in such a "comfortable" position, and thats without mentioning the goal difference, I can't see anyone getting close to that so effectively thats another point! Someone on the forum pointed out that our goal difference is more than any other club has scored so far, Bournemouth 47, QPR 46 and Blackburn 45 are the closest.

Hull have a "new" owner and manager but have lost their previous 2 games, after winning the 3 before them so their capable of putting a run together, interestingly they had a 0-0 draw against Bournemouth but lost 2-0 to Rovers.
Remember Jimmy Bullard called Hull a "bigger club" than Fulham when he left us to join them.

Current form:
HULL WWWLL
Fulham WWWDW

Our record against Hull isn't particularly good with 5 wins, 7 losses and 2 draws.

My team...

COYW's

Games of Interest...
Saturday 12th
Barnsley v QPR
Blackpool v Bournemouth
Hull v Fulham
Millwall v Derby

Monday 14th
West Brom v Blackburn

Tuesday 15th
Millwall v QPR

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



http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=1973

[WhiteJC]

The 9 Fulham players who are out of contract at the end of the 2021/22 season

Fulham currently find themselves top of the Championship and will have their eyes set on a return to the Premier League.

The West London side have a number of players who will be out of contract in the summer and it remains to be seen how many Marco Silva will want to keep for next season, especially if they complete a return to the Premier League.

Here, we take a look at the nine Fulham players whose contracts expire at the end of the 2021/22 season...

Jean Michaël Seri

Costing a club record fee of £27 million in 2018, Seri has struggled to re-pay his price tag and has, at times, been frozen out of the squad. However, since Silva's appointment, the midfielder has stepped up a gear and has played an important role, chipping in with six assists in 22 Championship games.

Tim Ream

Since arriving from Bolton Wanderers in 2015, Ream has been an ever-present for the club. Playing over 200 league games, Ream has played a part in two promotions to the Premier League.

The defender has captained the side on numerous occasions this season and has nine clean sheets in his 29 games.

Neeskens Kebano

Arguably having his best season at the club, Kebano has come into his own this season and has been a joy to watch. The tricky winger joined the club in 2016 and has made over 100 league appearances.

As a key part of Silva's attacking side, Kebano has featured 27 times in the Championship this season and has provided eight goals and five assists.

Fabio Carvalho

The 19-year-old is enjoying a fantastic breakthrough season with the club. The attacking midfielder has featured 19 times this season and has seven goals and five assists. He was heavily linked with a move to Liverpool in January, and it seems highly likely that the academy graduate will be on the move in the summer.

Alfie Mawson

Mawson joined Fulham in 2018 costing the club a reported £15.7m. Mawson's career at the club has been very injury hit though, and he has only started one league game this season.

With the 28-year-old not in Silva's plans, it is highly likely Fulham will take the hit with Mawson and let him leave for free at the end of the season.

Michael Hector

The central defender enjoyed a terrific first six months with the club, where he was part of the play-off winning team in 2020. Hector has struggled to find a way back into the team though and since the win against Brentford at Wembley, he has only made 13 appearances.

The Jamaican international has started three games in the league this season and has kept two clean sheets.

Steven Sessegnon

Sessegnon has been at the club since 2008, making his way through the academy ranks. The full-back made his debut in 2017 and has only appeared 19 times since. Now 21, Sessegnon will surely want to be playing regular first-team football.

He joined Plymouth Argyle on loan for the remainder of the season but is yet to feature for them.

Tyrese Francois

After starting in the first game of the 2021/22 season. He has struggled to get in the matchday squad over the course of the campaign though, finding much of his game time with the U23s.

Since making his debut in 2019, Francois has only made three league appearances for the club, so it wouldn't be a surprise to see him leave.

Fabri

The Spanish goalkeeper has had a forgettable time at the club since joining in 2018. Fabri hasn't made an appearance for the Cottagers since the year of his arrival, falling way down the pecking order.

He was sent out on loan to Mallorca in the 2019/20 season but struggled for game time. A departure this summer would be best for all parties.



https://the72.co.uk/262418/the-9-fulham-players-who-are-out-of-contract-at-the-end-of-the-2021-22-season/

[WhiteJC]

Shota Arveladze provides Hull City injury update ahead of Fulham clash

New Hull City manager Shota Arveladze has provided an update on the situations of Nathan Baxter and Mallik Wilks ahead of Saturday's clash with Fulham, during his pre-match press conference.

Winning their first game under the Georgian manager, the Tigers have since fallen to two defeats, with Preston North End first emerging victorious before Derby County secured all three points at Pride Park.

Despite sitting in 19th place, the Tigers are 12 points clear of the relegation zone and will be looking to finish the campaign strongly and set themselves up for next season.

Speaking to the media ahead of Saturday's match against table-topping Fulham, Arveladze addressed the situations of Baxter and Wilks: "He's not well yet (Nathan Baxter). That's the only thing I can say, I don't know how soon he will be well. For this moment, he's not fit enough to play."

"He (Mallik Wilks) trained today – a half-session with the team. It's very hard for me to say how much longer he'll be out."

The verdict

Whilst the Tigers have a more than competent option in Matt Ingram currently in the starting XI, Baxter has proven to be an excellent shot-stopper this season.

He is also someone that has a lot of confidence in his ability with his feet and helps start attacks with his sharpness and precise distribution.

Wilks has not enjoyed as successful of a season as he did last time out, but he certainly has the ability to turn games and cause havoc.

It appears that both may be out for a little while longer, but the good news is that they are both seemingly nearing a return.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/shota-arveladze-provides-hull-city-injury-update-ahead-of-fulham-clash/

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva addresses his Hull City return as Fulham boss

Fulham manager Marco Silva has said that it will be "special" when he returns to the MKM Stadium on Saturday as his side prepare for Hull City.

Silva served a short stint as Tigers manager back in 2017 but he was unable to steer the Tigers away from top-tier relegation, despite a relatively impressive win percentage.

The Cottagers travel to Hull's Yorkshire home on Saturday as league leaders, with Silva's side making impressive strides towards promotion straight back to the Premier League.

Hull are currently sitting in 19th place, however, they are 12 points above the drop zone, and with the poor form of those below them, it appears that it is highly likely that Championship football will be secured for another campaign.

Speaking to The Athletic's Peter Rutzler ahead of Saturday's clash, Silva addressed his return to Hull: "It will be the first time (I've been back). It will be special for me and my staff. It was a short period, but it was a special one. First time in the PL, in this country.

"The way they welcomed us, made us feel at home, it was really special, every single moment."

The verdict

It will certainly be an exciting return for Silva, but above all, his side will be targeting all three points to continue their push for promotion.

Despite his short spell with the Tigers ending in relegation, Silva managed to put up a real fight in what was a difficult situation to walk into.

It will be interesting to see what kind of reception Silva will get on Saturday, as it remains to be seen if his current success with the Cottagers could play a part in how Hull fans respond to him.

The Tigers will be hoping to avoid a third successive defeat at the weekend, but tests do not come any tougher than this.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/marco-silva-addresses-his-hull-city-return-as-fulham-boss/

[WhiteJC]

Pre-Hull Press Conference

Marco Silva will not allow complacency to creep in as Fulham aim to cement our spot at the top of the Championship.

The Whites currently sit eight points clear of third placed Blackburn Rovers, who have played two games more, but Silva knows how quickly momentum can shift.

"If you ask me if I'm happy with the season so far, of course I'm really pleased with it," he said. "But, at the same time, I know we haven't won anything.

"Okay, we're at the top and we've shown that we're doing well, we're improving from a collective point of view.

"A good number of players are having fantastic seasons and it's up to us to keep working with them individually to improve. But always, at the top, is the collective.

"Everyone at this football club is pleased, we're happy with the situation now, but we know that big fights are ahead of us and we have to keep our feet on the ground, respect our job, be humble enough to understand what type of competition we are playing in.

"We know that everything in football can change so quickly, there are good examples this season in the Championship.

"Some clubs started the season so badly, and now they're in the Play-Offs or fighting for a Play-Off position.

"And the opposite way, some clubs started really well, but are in a bad, bad run at the moment."

Saturday sees Marco Silva return to Hull for the first time since leaving the club in 2017.

He built up a strong rapport with the Tigers supporters during his time in East Yorkshire, having come very close to pulling off a miraculous great escape.

"I'm looking forward to it," our Head Coach stated. "It will be the first time [back], so it will definitely be special for me and my staff.

"It was a short period that we managed that football club, but it was special. It was my first time in the Premier League, my first time in this country.

"The way they welcomed us, the way they made us feel part of the football club, they made us feel at home, it was really special for me, every single moment that I had in that football club.

"It will be special to see some people again and to be at a game in that stadium."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/february/10/pre-hull-press-conference/

[WhiteJC]

Hilton and trialist seal top spot for U23s

Fulham's under 23s made certain of top spot in their Premier League Cup group with a narrow 2-1 win over Stoke City at the Lyme Valley Stadium this afternoon. Goals from Sonny Hilton and a trialist secured all three points against a spirited Stoke side, whose chances of making the quarter finals hinge on Monday's meeting with Southend.

Fulham travelled to Staffordshire already assured of progression to the last eight thanks to three wins and a draw in their four first group fixtures. Steve Wigley was expected to rotate more widely than he did, with Julian Schwarzer – son of Mark – getting a start in goal and the afore-mentioned trialist in Fulham's front line. Captain Hilton, who had settled the league meeting between these sides with a late winner last month, just took three minutes to give the visitors a dream start – even if he may have a been a fortunate to see his corner evade the attentions of Blondy Nna Noukeu, who may have been distracted by the presence of four Fulham attackers in his six yard box, and fly straight into the top corner.

Hilton was denied by the Stoke goalkeeper at his near post as the in-form playmaker looked to make it two on the quarter half mark and it took until midway through the first half for the Potters to create an opening of their own. Douglas Taylor drilled an effort just wide of goal after excellent approach play from Will Goodwin before Taylor was denied by a superb saving tackle from Idris Odutayo after going around Schwarzer.

Stoke continued to be much more assertive in the second period and after both Ibane Bowat and Odutayo had made crucial headers in their own box they got their reward. Just before the hour mark, Will Forrester climbed highest to head home an Adam Porter corner at the far post to bring the Potters deservedly level after a succession of home corners. They pushed for a second with Schwarzer having to charge out of his box to beat Taylor to a through ball and Tom Sparrow shooting over, but were beaten by a classic sucker punch.

Fulham's mystery trialist produced a brilliant turn and finish inside the penalty area after latching onto Hilton's pass to put Wigley's men back in front. Hilton then shot wide from long range as the visitors looked to make sure of the three points and they survived a late home onslaught, with Schwarzer only called upon to smother a Max McCarthy shot.

STOKE CITY UNDER 23s (4-4-2): Nna Noukeu; Curl, Coates, Okagbue (Trialist 60), Forrester; Malone, Oakley-Boothe, Sparro, Porter (Sy 63); Goodwin (McCarthy 77), D. Taylor. Subs (not used): Hemfrey, Griffiths.

GOAL: Forrester (58).

FULHAM UNDER 23s (4-2-3-1): J. Schwarzer; D'Auria-Henry, Larkeche, Odutayo, Bowat; Page, Pajaziti; Hilton, Bowie, Lanquedoc (C. Robinson 60); Trialist (Caton 82). Subs (not used): Adams.

GOALS: Hilton (3), Trialist (69).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/02/hilton-and-trialist-seal-top-spot-for-u23s/

[WhiteJC]

Silva 'looking forward' to Hull return

Marco Silva admits he is 'looking forward' to returning to Hull City with Fulham this weekend.

The Portuguese head coach forged a firm bond with the Tigers fans during his short time on Humberside in 2017 – almost keeping City in the top flight with eight wins from 22 matches in charge having taken over from Mike Phelan with the side bottom of the pile.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Silva reiterated his affection for the club and their supporters.

"I'm looking forward to it. It will be the first time [back], so it will definitely be special for me and my staff. It was a short period that we managed that football club, but it was special. It was my first time in the Premier League, my first time in this country.

The way they welcomed us, the way they made us feel part of the football club, they made us feel at home, it was really special for me, every single moment that I had in that football club. It will be special to see some people again and to be at a game in that stadium."

He is determined to ensure there is no complacency for the Championship leaders, despite their 3-0 midweek win over Millwall opening up a six point gap at the top of the table.

"If you ask me if I'm happy with the season so far, of course I'm really pleased with it. But, at the same time, I know we haven't won anything. Okay, we're at the top and we've shown that we're doing well, we're improving from a collective point of view. A good number of players are having fantastic seasons and it's up to us to keep working with them individually to improve. But always, at the top, is the collective.

Everyone at this football club is pleased, we're happy with the situation now, but we know that big fights are ahead of us and we have to keep our feet on the ground, respect our job, be humble enough to understand what type of competition we are playing in. We know that everything in football can change so quickly, there are good examples this season in the Championship."

Silva confirmed that Kenny Tete will miss the trip to East Yorkshire as he continues his recovery from the groin injury sustained at Stoke City last month, although the Dutch defender has begun a cautious return to training.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/02/silva-looking-forward-to-hull-return/

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea loan star hands Hull City major blow for crunch Fulham clash

The Tigers will continue to be without the influential stopper and he may not be back for Bramall Lane on Tuesday night

Hull City will be without goalkeeper Nathan Baxter for Saturday's home clash with promotion hopefuls Fulham at the MKM Stadium.

Baxter has missed the last two Championship defeats through illness, and head coach Shota Arveladze has revealed the on-loan Chelsea stopper will be absent once again for the visit of Marco Silva's Cottagers.

There was more encouraging news on last season's top goalscorer Mallik Wilks, though he's still a little way away from full fitness and challenging for a first team spot.

Both Callum Elder and Andy Cannon are available, and Lewie Coyle came through his first 90 minutes since late October, after making his long-awaited return in the 3-1 defeat at Derby County on Tuesday night.

"He's not well yet (Nathan Baxter). That's the only thing I can say, I don't know how soon he will be well. For this moment, he's not fit enough to play," the City head coach told Hull Live.

"We wish for all our injured players to be back and we have the options to pick who plays, with the problems we have it's a case of checking on them every 24 hours.

"He (Mallik Wilks) trained today - a half-session with the team and half with the fitness coaches.

"He hasn't played in a full training session with the lads, so it's very hard for me to say how much longer he'll be out, he's done light training with us, just with the balls."

Numbers in the Tigers' ranks will also be swelled by the return of Elder and Cannon, both of whom have recovered from injuries, though Josh Emmanuel remains sidelined through illness.

"Cannon is fit, he trains with the group and he's fit enough.

"He's trained in the last three sessions with us and is available," the Georgian said of Elder's availability."

Arveladze also revealed he had no concerns over Lewie Coyle's fitness, after the right-back started his first game since getting injured at Barnsley in early November on Wednesday night.

"That's a boy who can do this physically, he's doing well," he added.



https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/hull-city-fulham-blow-chelsea-6636695

[WhiteJC]

Baxter remains unavailable for Fulham

Head Coach Shota Arveladze has revealed that goalkeeper Nathan Baxter remains unavailable for this weekend's game against Fulham.

The 23-year-old has missed the last two games against Preston North End and Derby County, and Arveladze says it is very difficult to give a timescale on his return.

"He's not well yet," said Arveladze.

"That's the only thing I can say. I cannot say exactly how quickly he will recover. The last time I spoke to him, it did not seem as though it would be too long. At this moment, he's not fit enough to play."

On a positive note, Arveladze revealed that Mallik Wilks has returned to training as he continues his recovery from injury. The 23-year-old forward has not featured for the Tigers since the defeat against Nottingham Forest in December.

"He trained today - a half session with the team and the other half with staff who are trying to help him recover," added Arveladze.

"It's very hard for me to say how soon he's going to return. He just warmed up with us, did a little bit on the ball and that's it (in today's session)."

Lewie Coyle made a return to the starting line-up against Derby after almost three months on the sidelines, and Arveladze is confident the right-back is fit enough to be involved again against Fulham.

"He's a boy who can do that physically," explained Arveladze.

"I took him off with about 15 minutes to go to give him a bit of a breather after a long time out. He's doing well and I'm observing the players daily to see how they are."

Finally, Arveladze also confirmed that Andy Cannon and Callum Elder are available for selection.

"(Andy) Cannon is fit," said Arveladze.

"He has been training with the group. He's fit enough (to play).

"Callum's been training with the group for the last three sessions. He's also available."



https://www.wearehullcity.co.uk/news/2022/february/baxter-remains-unavailable-for-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Coleman earns first win with Atromitos

Former Fulham manager Chris Coleman earned his first win in charge of Atromitos as the Greek strugglers produced a stunning comeback against Lamia this afternoon.

Trailing to a Christos Eleftheriadis strike midway through the first half, Atromitos scored three times without reply after half time to complete an incredible turnaround. Striker Efthymis Koulouris equalised from the penalty spot and then put the Athens outfit in front before substitute Denis Alibec secured all three points with two minutes remaining.

Coleman, working with former Fulham team mate Kit Symons once again, took over at Atromitos in mid-January and had picked up a point from his first three games. He had been out of work since being sacked by Hebei China Fortune in May 2019.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/02/coleman-earns-first-win-with-atromitos/

[WhiteJC]

McDonald: 'Dundee United debut one of the best experiences of my life'

Kevin McDonald couldn't hide his delight after making his debut for Dundee United last night – describing it as 'one of the best experiences of my life'.

The former Fulham midfielder, who signed a short-term deal at Tannadice Park after impressing during his time training with the Tangerines, played 73 minutes as his new side moved into fourth place in the SPL with a 2-0 win over Motherwell. The fact that he is playing senior football at all, just months after a successful kidney transplant, is remarkable.

Speaking to Courier Sport, the Scotland international said:

"It was an unbelievable night for me. I've played in some massive games of football like play-off finals and in the English Premier League. I could never forget the feeling of beating Aston Villa with Fulham at Wembley.

But from a life perspective, this is of the best experiences I've had. I had a couple of misplaced passes but they showed a lot of respect in not getting on at me. They understand that I haven't played for almost two years. I thank every single one of the fans for their attitude.

They gave me a great reception coming out and even gave me a big applause when I was just warming up. It's a massive boost to be play football in front of fans again."

The 33 year-old believes he can definitely improve on his performance levels given time.

"A football pitch is my home. It's all I've ever known. It's incredible to be back. Can I do better? Absolutely. But it's not the time to look at that. It's time to feel proud that I'm playing again."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/02/mcdonald-dundee-united-debut-one-of-the-best-experiences-of-my-life/

[WhiteJC]

Shota Arveladze offers Fulham observation ahead of Hull City clash

Hull City will be looking to upset the odds and put an end to their two game losing run when they host Fulham on Saturday.

The Cottagers appear to have ran away with the league title in the last month or so, with Aleksandar Mitrovic just one goal away from equaling Ivan Toney's record of 31 goals in a Championship season – with 17 games still to play.

The Tigers have lost out to Preston North End and Derby County in the last week, but that has not taken the gloss off of what has been an exceptional last few months, building a 12 point cushion above the relegation zone.

Acun Ilicali seems committed to keeping their best players at the MKM Stadium and conducted some exciting business towards the back end of the January transfer window.

That said, a mammoth task lies ahead of them in the form of Marco Silva's Fulham, Mitrovic and Fabio Carvalho scored the goals as the West Londoners earned a comfortable 2-0 victory in the reverse fixture.

Shota Arveladze remained respectful of the league leaders when he spoke to the club's media team this afternoon.

He said: "If you look at the goals they score, the points they have and the way they play, you have to say that they're (Fulham) the best team in the league at the moment.

"They play very attractive football."

There could be some frustrations from the stands on Saturday with the supporters rallying behind Grant McCann before his dismissal last month.

Perspective is important though and this Fulham side have invested far more in their squad in recent years and that could be apparent on Saturday afternoon.

The Verdict

From a PR standpoint, it is probably wise for Arveladze to be talking Fulham up with the chance that the Tigers lose a third straight game at the weekend.

Hull's 2-0 win over Swansea City in Arveladze's first match at the helm was a hugely encouraging performance and one that would have seen supporters expect a bit more from the couple of games that have followed.

It is a nice picture for Arveladze to paint in the sense that the match could be viewed as a bit of a free hit, with even taking a point potentially feeling like a win around the club.

With Keane Lewis-Potter and Tom Eaves in the form they are at the moment, there is no reason why the Tigers cannot ruffle some feathers and at least get themselves on the scoresheet in what is set to be a cauldron atmosphere at the MKM Stadium.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/shota-arveladze-offers-fulham-observation-ahead-of-hull-city-clash/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham boss Silva relishing return to Hull

Fulham boss Marco Silva says he will always have a soft spot for Hull City, who will host the Whites on Saturday.

Silva was given his first job in English football by Hull in January 2017 with the team rooted to the foot of the Premier League amid a backdrop of angry supporters who were boycotting matches in protest at the club's owners.

However, the Portuguese almost kept them up in a memorable 22-match spell that saw Liverpool beaten 2-0 in the league and the team reach the semi-finals of the EFL Cup ,where they lost 3-2 on aggregate to Manchester United despite winning the second leg.

Ultimately the task proved to be too great and after briefly climbing out of the relegation zone the team went down and have shown little sign of returning to the top flight since Silva departed to join Watford.

Saturday will see Silva return to Hull for the first time since he left and said the brief time he spent in east Yorkshire is one he remembers fondly.

"It will be special to go back, there is no doubt about it," Silva said.

"They were the people that opened the doors to English football for me and the way they welcomed, not just me, but my staff as well was fantastic.

"Even if it was a short period there, the relationships we created and the environment around the club was really good.

"Unfortunately we didn't achieve the main thing but we changed so many things for that football club and I will never forget the way the people supported me.

"I have kept some connections with some people that worked there and they are very good people it will always be a special club."

Hull recently sacked manager Grant McCann after the club was bought by new Turkish owner Acun Ilical, who then appointed former Glasgow Rangers striker Shota Arveladze.

Despite the Tigers' 3-1 loss to Derby on Tuesday, Silva said recent wins over Blackburn and Bournemouth show they are a team that could potentially cause his free-scoring league leaders plenty of problems.

"Last Monday they change the ownership and manager and the last few games they have got some good results," he said.

"A new coach with new ideas has come in and they will be looking to react from their last game in front of their own fans so it will be a tough game for us."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-boss-silva-relishing-return-to-hull

[kiwian]

Hilton and trialist seal top spot for U23s

Fulham's under 23s made certain of top spot in their Premier League Cup group with a narrow 2-1 win over Stoke City at the Lyme Valley Stadium this afternoon. Goals from Sonny Hilton and a trialist secured all three points against a spirited Stoke side, whose chances of making the quarter finals hinge on Monday's meeting with Southend.

Fulham travelled to Staffordshire already assured of progression to the last eight thanks to three wins and a draw in their four first group fixtures. Steve Wigley was expected to rotate more widely than he did, with Julian Schwarzer – son of Mark – getting a start in goal and the afore-mentioned trialist in Fulham's front line. Captain Hilton, who had settled the league meeting between these sides with a late winner last month, just took three minutes to give the visitors a dream start – even if he may have a been a fortunate to see his corner evade the attentions of Blondy Nna Noukeu, who may have been distracted by the presence of four Fulham attackers in his six yard box, and fly straight into the top corner.

Hilton was denied by the Stoke goalkeeper at his near post as the in-form playmaker looked to make it two on the quarter half mark and it took until midway through the first half for the Potters to create an opening of their own. Douglas Taylor drilled an effort just wide of goal after excellent approach play from Will Goodwin before Taylor was denied by a superb saving tackle from Idris Odutayo after going around Schwarzer.

Stoke continued to be much more assertive in the second period and after both Ibane Bowat and Odutayo had made crucial headers in their own box they got their reward. Just before the hour mark, Will Forrester climbed highest to head home an Adam Porter corner at the far post to bring the Potters deservedly level after a succession of home corners. They pushed for a second with Schwarzer having to charge out of his box to beat Taylor to a through ball and Tom Sparrow shooting over, but were beaten by a classic sucker punch.

Fulham's mystery trialist produced a brilliant turn and finish inside the penalty area after latching onto Hilton's pass to put Wigley's men back in front. Hilton then shot wide from long range as the visitors looked to make sure of the three points and they survived a late home onslaught, with Schwarzer only called upon to smother a Max McCarthy shot.

STOKE CITY UNDER 23s (4-4-2): Nna Noukeu; Curl, Coates, Okagbue (Trialist 60), Forrester; Malone, Oakley-Boothe, Sparro, Porter (Sy 63); Goodwin (McCarthy 77), D. Taylor. Subs (not used): Hemfrey, Griffiths.

GOAL: Forrester (58).

FULHAM UNDER 23s (4-2-3-1): J. Schwarzer; D'Auria-Henry, Larkeche, Odutayo, Bowat; Page, Pajaziti; Hilton, Bowie, Lanquedoc (C. Robinson 60); Trialist (Caton 82). Subs (not used): Adams.

GOALS: Hilton (3), Trialist (69).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/02/hilton-and-trialist-seal-top-spot-for-u23s/

Why do "trialists"  not get mentioned by name?

[gerrys]

Hilton and trialist seal top spot for U23s

Fulham's under 23s made certain of top spot in their Premier League Cup group with a narrow 2-1 win over Stoke City at the Lyme Valley Stadium this afternoon. Goals from Sonny Hilton and a trialist secured all three points against a spirited Stoke side, whose chances of making the quarter finals hinge on Monday's meeting with Southend.

Fulham travelled to Staffordshire already assured of progression to the last eight thanks to three wins and a draw in their four first group fixtures. Steve Wigley was expected to rotate more widely than he did, with Julian Schwarzer – son of Mark – getting a start in goal and the afore-mentioned trialist in Fulham's front line. Captain Hilton, who had settled the league meeting between these sides with a late winner last month, just took three minutes to give the visitors a dream start – even if he may have a been a fortunate to see his corner evade the attentions of Blondy Nna Noukeu, who may have been distracted by the presence of four Fulham attackers in his six yard box, and fly straight into the top corner.

Hilton was denied by the Stoke goalkeeper at his near post as the in-form playmaker looked to make it two on the quarter half mark and it took until midway through the first half for the Potters to create an opening of their own. Douglas Taylor drilled an effort just wide of goal after excellent approach play from Will Goodwin before Taylor was denied by a superb saving tackle from Idris Odutayo after going around Schwarzer.

Stoke continued to be much more assertive in the second period and after both Ibane Bowat and Odutayo had made crucial headers in their own box they got their reward. Just before the hour mark, Will Forrester climbed highest to head home an Adam Porter corner at the far post to bring the Potters deservedly level after a succession of home corners. They pushed for a second with Schwarzer having to charge out of his box to beat Taylor to a through ball and Tom Sparrow shooting over, but were beaten by a classic sucker punch.

Fulham's mystery trialist produced a brilliant turn and finish inside the penalty area after latching onto Hilton's pass to put Wigley's men back in front. Hilton then shot wide from long range as the visitors looked to make sure of the three points and they survived a late home onslaught, with Schwarzer only called upon to smother a Max McCarthy shot.

STOKE CITY UNDER 23s (4-4-2): Nna Noukeu; Curl, Coates, Okagbue (Trialist 60), Forrester; Malone, Oakley-Boothe, Sparro, Porter (Sy 63); Goodwin (McCarthy 77), D. Taylor. Subs (not used): Hemfrey, Griffiths.

GOAL: Forrester (58).

FULHAM UNDER 23s (4-2-3-1): J. Schwarzer; D'Auria-Henry, Larkeche, Odutayo, Bowat; Page, Pajaziti; Hilton, Bowie, Lanquedoc (C. Robinson 60); Trialist (Caton 82). Subs (not used): Adams.

GOALS: Hilton (3), Trialist (69).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/02/hilton-and-trialist-seal-top-spot-for-u23s/

Why do "trialists"  not get mentioned by name?

So that no one else catches on that Fulham are interested in the player.......

[WhiteJC]

Silva Named Manager Of The Month

Marco Silva has been named Sky Bet Championship Manager of the Month for January.

Following three postponed matches, Silva and his team navigated a congested fixture list in some style, winning four and drawing one of our five games last month.

The victories were all memorable, too. Reading was arguably the highlight as we became the first side in 126 years to win two away games by a seven goal margin in the same season.

Consecutive 6-2s over Bristol City and Birmingham City followed at the Cottage, before a battling 3-2 win at Stoke City.

We ended the month with 23 goals after Aleksandar Mitrović netted in a 1-1 draw with Blackpool.

"I thank the panel for selecting me as the recipient of the Championship Manager of the Month award for January," Marco said.

"A massive part of being recognised with this award is the collective effort from everyone at Fulham Football Club, which includes the players, football and coaching staff, and all of the staff that work so hard behind the scenes at Craven Cottage and Motspur Park.

"January was a good month for us but we know that we haven't achieved anything at this point, and we must continue in a positive way until the end of the season."

Danny Wilson, who chairs the Sky Bet Manager of the Month judging panel said: "Mouth-watering football with goals galore for Marco's Fulham. 13 points and 23 goals in their five January games is fantastic entertainment for the watching faithful."

Sky Sports' EFL pundit Don Goodman said: "Goals, goals and more goals were the order of the day for Marco Silva in January.

"In a five-game stretch, his side scored a remarkable 23 times, threatening the history books and providing Silva with one of the easiest Manager of the Month wins imaginable. With the Premier League in their sights, Fulham look like a team possessed."

Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies said: "January saw the Whites go eight points clear at the top and their title odds slashed accordingly from 8/13 at the start the month into the current price of 1/9.

"Silva's side were sent off the 5/1 pre-season favourites back in August and they have surpassed all expectations so far under the Portuguese's leadership.

"They're now 1/100 to be promoted back to the Premier League at the first time of asking from 15/8 before a ball was kicked.

"After two years out of the game, Silva is passing this test with flying colours."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/february/11/silva-named-manager-of-the-month/