Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 15/03/22...

[WhiteJC]

'It would be silly for us to show nerves now' — Fulham's Harry Wilson on promotion

Fulham winger Harry Wilson has said that Fulham would be "silly" to show nerves as they approach promotion to the Premier League.

His side are 12 points clear at the top of the Championship with 10 games left in the season.

Wilson scored a late equaliser in Fulham's 1-1 draw against Barnsley on Saturday afternoon.

Asked about the possibility of nerves by The Athletic, the 24-year-old said: "It would be silly for us to show nerves now. We haven't all season, we've just played our game, took one game at a time.

"If we were to change anything now it would be stupid because what we have done so far has put us in good stead."

He added that he had a point to prove personally, having been relegated with Bournemouth during his last season in the Premier League.

"The last time I was there it ended in disappointment with relegation. I managed to score seven goals (at Bournemouth) which I think, in my first Premier League season, was a good return. But if we do manage to get promotion this time, I'll be hoping to better that."

Fulham next play West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday night, who have struggled this season, and are a disappointing 14th.



https://theathletic.com/news/it-would-be-silly-for-us-to-show-nerves-now-fulhams-harry-wilson-on-promotion/4lwLpb3YioRI/

[WhiteJC]

Wilson calls for cool heads

Harry Wilson remains bitterly disappointed with his failure to head home the winner in stoppage time at Barnsley on Saturday – but is confident Fulham can go on to secure promotion back to the Premier League.

The Welsh winger scored a superb equaliser at Oakwell after Fulham had gone behind to Carlton Morris' contentious penalty but somehow headed wide from Fabio Carvalho's cross with the goal gaping. Wilson was still disappointed by that miss, but told the Athletic that it remains business as usual for Marco Silva's side as they seek an immediate return to the top flight.

"It would be silly for us to show nerves now. We haven't all season, we've just played our game, took one game at a time. If we were to change anything now it would be stupid because what we have done so far has put us in good stead."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/wilson-calls-for-cool-heads/

[WhiteJC]

Steve Bruce delivers Daryl Dike update as West Brom prepare for Fulham test

West Bromwich Albion manager Steve Bruce has admitted that there is a possibility that Daryl Dike could potentially make his return to action this weekend.

The forward has not featured for the Baggies since suffering a serious hamstring injury during their showdown with Peterborough United in January.

Since sealing a 3-0 victory over Posh, West Brom have struggled to deliver the goods on a consistent basis in the Championship as they have only won one of their last nine games at this level.

Whereas Dike is set to be unavailable for tomorrow's meeting with Fulham, he could be in line to make an appearance against Bristol City on Saturday.

West Brom will be aiming to boost their hopes of gatecrashing the play-off picture in the second-tier by securing a positive result in their meeting with the Cottagers.

Having produced a fightback to seal a point in their clash with Huddersfield Town last Friday, it will be intriguing to see how Albion fare against the league leaders.

Ahead of this fixture, Bruce has shared a fitness update on Dike.

Speaking to the Express & Star about the forward, the West Brom boss said: "He's only trained once with us, so it's a big important week for him.

"Will he be involved against Bristol City next weekend?

"Possibly.

"But I think it will be after the international break when he'll be in and around it."

The Verdict

Although West Brom will be keen to call upon the services of Dike as soon as possible, they cannot really afford to take a risk on him due to the nature of his previous injury.

Therefore, unless he makes considerable strides in terms of his fitness this week, Dike may not be called upon until after the international break.

The former Barnsley loanee will be hoping that his side are still in contention for a top-six finish when he makes his return to action.

Having scored nine goals in 21 appearances at this level during his career, Dike will unquestionably be confident in his ability to make a difference for West Brom in the closing stages of the 2021/22 campaign.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/steve-bruce-delivers-daryl-dike-update-as-west-brom-prepare-for-fulham-test/

[WhiteJC]

Albion v Fulham Match Preview

Albion play their second home match in quick succession on Tuesday night when the Sky Bet Championship leaders Fulham head for The Hawthorns (ko 8pm).

The Baggies fought back from two goals down inside the final ten minutes to steal a point against high-flying Huddersfield Town on Friday, a game which saw forward Andy Carroll open up his goalscoring account.

Fulham were held to a 1-1 draw at relegation-threatened Barnsley on Saturday lunchtime, with Wales international Harry Wilson firing in an 86th-minute leveller.

The Cottagers arrive in B71 with the Premier League in touching distance, sitting 12 points clear of AFC Bournemouth in second and 14 ahead of Huddersfield in third.

How to follow the game

Live commentary is available on WBA TV Matchday. Supporters with a subscription can access the commentary from 7.45pm by clicking here. Alternatively, Baggies fans can listen via the free-to-download WBA App.

Owing to the game being broadcast live on Sky Sports, overseas subscribers will have access to audio only for this game.

If you don't have a subscription, you can purchase an audio match pass for just £2.50 by clicking here.

Opposition

Fulham are set for an instant return to the Premier League having been the standout side in the Sky Bet Championship this season.

The Cottagers are comfortably clear of the chasing pack with ten fixtures to go and boast an impressive 77 points from their 36 matches, averaging more than two every game.

Tuesday's guests have scored 90 league goals so far in 2021/22, which is 35 more than the second-highest scoring team in the division (AFC Bournemouth).

One man who has played an instrumental part in their campaign is Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrović. The 27-year-old has bagged an astonishing 35 goals and seven assists in the second tier.

His 32nd of the season, a strike against Peterborough United in February, broke the previous record for most goals in a Championship term (Ivan Toney, 31) with 14 games still to be played.

Marco Silva is the man in charge at the Cottage. The Portuguese boss took over last summer having also managed Everton, Watford and Hull in England, as well as Sporting of Portugal and Olympiakos of Greece.

Classic clash

Albion beat Fulham 2-1 at The Hawthorns in a Premier League clash in October 2010.

An unfortunate bounce off Scott Carson gave the visitors the lead, but two goals from Youssouf Mulumbu and Marc-Antoine Fortune secured three points for the Baggies.
Did you know?

Steve Bruce will manage his 32nd match against Fulham on Tuesday night - a joint record number of games for the boss alongside Arsenal.

Bruce has won nine, drawn 12 and lost 10 of his previous 31 clashes with the Cottagers.


LV BET's latest odds

Albion come in at 23/9 (3.55) to secure all three points against Fulham.

West Bromwich Albion have found the back of the net twice in both of their last two games. LV BET have Bruce's men priced at 19/10 (2.90) to score over 1.5 goals at The Hawthorns and at 18/1 (19.00) to secure a 2-0 victory.

Karlan Grant measures up at 39/20 (2.95) to find the back of the net for the fourth time in three games, with Andy Carroll at 27/4 (7.75) to have the final say this Tuesday and score the last goal of the match.

Register here and use the code WBAxLVBET to claim a £5 No Deposit Bonus and a chance to win WBA hospitality tickets! 18+ begambleaware.org. Terms apply. Odds are subject to change.



https://www.wba.co.uk/news/albion-v-fulham-match-preview-0

[WhiteJC]

Andy Carroll makes honest play-off claim ahead of West Brom's meeting with Fulham

West Bromwich Albion forward Andy Carroll has insisted that his side have not given up hope of securing a place in the play-offs this season.

A run of seven games without a win resulted in the Baggies slipping down the Championship standings.

However, West Brom managed to seal all three points in their showdown with Hull City earlier this month and then backed up this display by producing a comeback against Huddersfield Town last week.

After Danny Ward netted a brace for the Terriers at The Hawthorns, Karlan Grant pulled a goal back for the hosts from the penalty spot.

Carroll then stepped up to the mark as he planted a header past goalkeeper Lee Nicholls to secure a draw for his side.

Currently seven points adrift of the play-off places in the Championship, the Baggies will be looking to close this particular gap by picking up positive results in their upcoming clash with Fulham and Bristol City.

Ahead of tomorrow's showdown with the Cottagers, Carroll has offered an honest assessment on the current situation at West Brom.

Speaking to the Express & Star, Carroll said: "We have taken four points from the last two matches and we have another two games this week before the break.

"It is a massive week and we still haven't taken our eye off where we need to be [the play-offs]."

The Verdict

Whereas West Brom have managed to show some character in their last two league fixtures, they will need to pick up victories on a regular basis between now and the end of the campaign in order to have a chance of sealing a top-six finish.

Set to face a Fulham side tomorrow who are on course to secure an immediate return to the Premier League later this year, the Baggies will need to be at their best in order to secure a positive result at The Hawthorns.

Having produced an impressive cameo display against Huddersfield, Carroll could be in line to make his return to the club's starting eleven tomorrow.

Currently averaging a relatively impressive WhoScored match rating of 6.88 in the Championship for West Brom, the forward could potentially help his side climb the league standings by maintaining his consistency in the coming weeks.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/andy-carroll-makes-honest-play-off-claim-ahead-of-west-broms-meeting-with-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Silva to make late call on Kebano and Ream

Marco Silva will make a decision later today on whether Neeskens Kebano and Tim Ream will feature in the Fulham squad for tomorrow night's trip to West Bromwich Albion.

Kebano missed Saturday's 1-1 draw at Barnsley after reporting stiffness in his hamstring during Friday's training session. Ream suffered a dead leg after completing a goal-line clearance just before half time at Oakwell and then suffered a horrible looking head injury after being involved in a clash of heads during stoppage time. Ream took part in a recovery session at Motspur Park yesterday, whilst Kebano was put through his paces in the gym.

Anthony Knockaert will not be available for the fixture at the Hawthorns as he is unwell, but the Fulham boss reported no other injury concerns during his press conference this morning.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/silva-to-make-late-call-on-kebano-and-ream/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham made €15m offer for Brazilian defender through agent – 'Wise decision' to snub Cottagers

Gleison Bremer's explosion at Torino has seen clubs in Italy and across Europe take note, and also register an interest to sign him in the summer.

This includes the likes of Inter Milan, Juventus, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur, but the centre-back could already have been in England by now if his move to Fulham would have taken shape last summer.

Fulham were one of the three sides to get relegated from the Premier League last season, and in their efforts to return to the top flight, they wanted to bolster their defence in the summer of 2021.

The Brazilian was identified as one of the targets by the Cottagers, according to Gianluca Di Marzio's Grand Hotel Calciomercato, and in order to secure his services, Fulham made a €15m offer to the Serie A side, through the player's agency, CAA Base.

However, the defender was not in favour of joining the Championship side last summer, and the Brazilian told Torino chairman Urbano Cairo he would prefer to stay with his current employer instead of moving to Craven Cottage for Fulham.

It was a 'wise decision', considering how things are at the moment and also the clubs that are currently showing interest in Bremer.

The website ends the report by stating: 'He enjoys the present. And the future awaits him'.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-made-e15m-offer-club-stars-agent-wise-decision-snub-cottagers/

[WhiteJC]

Magath and Fotheringham at the helm for Hertha

Fulham fans all across the world will have been brought out in a cold sweat last night when the news filtered through that Hertha Berlin, second bottom of the Bundesliga, have turned to Felix Magath to try and save them from relegation. Magath's reputation as a firefighter who had never been relegated didn't survive a dismal spell at Craven Cottage, where his Fulham side went down from the Premier League and looked in danger of a second successive relegation from the Championship when he was sacked in September 2014 after taking a single point from the first seven fixtures.

Worryingly, Hertha Berlin believe Magath's record 'speaks for itself'. Perhaps even more concerning is this afternoon's news that Mark Fotheringham, who played three senior games during his own uninspiring spell under Magath at Craven Cottage, has been confirmed as the German's assistant. I'm not going to run through Magath's lowlights whilst with Fulham – the memories are simply too painful.

We wish Hertha Berlin all the luck in the world – they may need it.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/magath-and-fotheringham-at-the-helm-for-hertha/

[WhiteJC]

Change up top as big Andy Carroll call made: West Brom predicted XI vs Fulham

Carroll nodded in the all important equaliser against the Terriers last time out

Steve Bruce has an important decision awaiting him as he looks to pick a squad that will get a result against runaway leaders Fulham.

After two positive back-to-back performances including that impressive comeback versus Huddersfield Town last time out, West Brom can go into this one with some new found confidence under their belt.

The last two results came off the back of Bruce switching back to five in defence, a system that Albion tended to use a lot more under his predecessor Valerien Isamel.

What the revert in formation also did however was force Andy Carroll out of the starting line-up.

Carroll had been one of the few players that has consistently performed well since his arrival at the Hawthorns and one of the few that you can never have gripe with for a lack of effort.

He was brought on to try and salvage something from the game against the Terriers and did just that when he rose highest to head home his first goal for the club - a superb effort that left Lee Nicholls in the sticks with no chance.

It's probably fair to say he's earned a recall to the eleven and could be just the formula the team need when it comes to trying to get a result out of Premier League bound Fulham.

The Cottagers like to play football, they like to play out from the back. Having someone with the presence of Carroll up there could really disrupt their flow.

Taking all that into account, here's the starting line-up we believe Bruce will go with for Tuesday's big game.

1. GK - Sam Johnstone

Last time we did a predicted line-up we called Johnstone the immovable one. After his performance last time out, that may not be the case anymore. With that said, expect him to keep his place here.

2. CB - Semi Ajayi

Been relatively solid in recent weeks and deserves to stay in the eleven.

3. CB - Kyle Bartley

Had far from his best game last time out and will need a much improved performance if he is to keep his place moving forward.

4. CB - Matthew Clarke

The man that brings balance to the defence. Has to keep his place in a five.

5. RWB - Darnell Furlong

Brought off last time as Albion looked for a goal but should be in from the start again.

6. LWB - Conor Townsend

Much better from Townsend the last couple of games - hopefully Tuesday brings the day he finally gets an attacking contribution back on his name.

7. CM - Taylor Gardner-Hickman

Really impressed with the youngster since he's come into the team. Brought in in a difficult situation and brought some life to the Albion midfield.

8. CM - Alex Mowatt

Made a difference in recent weeks and found some form in adversity. Important player in the middle.

9. CM - Jake Livermore

Taken back up his role of captain since returning to the squad from suspension and has visibly boosted the team despite being wrote off by some. Deserves credit.

10. ST - Karlan Grant

Near impossible to drop him after backing three in two games, even if two were from the spot. Full of confidence.

11. ST - Andy Carroll

Callum Robinson may feel unfortunate in being dropped but Carroll deserves the nod, especially after bagging his first goal for the club. Feel he could be a real handful for the Cottagers.




https://www.birminghamworld.uk/sport/football/west-brom/change-up-top-as-big-andy-carroll-call-made-west-brom-predicted-xi-vs-fulham-3610122

[WhiteJC]

Fulham assessing Ream and Kebano ahead of West Brom game

Marco Silva is unsure whether Tim Ream and Neeskens Kebano will be fit to face West Brom on Tuesday as Fulham look to consolidate their lead at the top of the table.

Ream was left with a deep gash above his left eye following a clash of heads late on in Saturday's hard-fought 1-1 draw with Barnsley at Oakwell.

The American defender played out the remainder of the match but Silva said he will make a late decision on whether he is fit to face the Baggies, with Michael Hector potentially in line for a rare start.

Winger Kebano missed the Barnsley game with a hamstring injury and will be assessed before the squad make their way to the West Midlands.

"We had a session yesterday and will have another later today (Monday) and then we will decide," Silva said.

"Tim came in yesterday to do recovery with the other players that started the game, Kebano did gym work.

"All of the other players are in normal condition apart from Anthony Knockaert, who is ill."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-duo-are-doubts-for-west-brom-game

[WhiteJC]

Games for mid-week 15/03
We travel to the midlands to take on West Brom at the Hawthorns for another mid-week game

Once again we've lost out to dubious decisions, it was never a penalty, and how Muniz wasn't awarded one?, that was so bad that Wilson must have been in shock when he missed an open goal!
Harry Wilson's goal was our 45th away from home, a new club record.
Still a point away from home is always a good point, the unbeaten run continues, on to Tuesdays game, let's hope we can keep it up.

I'd expected this game to be a top of the table, or close to, clash? unfortunately for the baggies their form took a nose dive that resulted in them getting Steve Bruce as their manager. Their currently sitting in 14th and you can bet that their aim is to get into the play-off's, can Bruce motivate them to do that, at the moment they need to make up at least 8 points to get ahead of Sheff Utd, with only 10 games of their season left they might have left it too late?

Current Form:
West Brom – LLLWD
Fulham – WWWWD

Our record against West Brom is better than I remember with 6 wins, 2 losses and 7 draws

My team, I'm assuming that Ream will be out...

COYW's

Games of Interest...
Tuesday 15th
Birmingham v Middlesborough
Blackburn v Derby
Bournemouth v Reading
West Brom v Fulham

Wednesday 16th
Blackpool v Sheff Utd
Millwall v Huddersfield
Forest 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=2009

[WhiteJC]

Pre-West Brom Press Conference

Marco Silva knows West Bromwich Albion still have plenty to play for, despite sitting 14th with just 10 matches remaining.

Such is the competitive nature of the Sky Bet Championship this season, a good run could propel the Baggies into Play-Off contention, as they currently lie just seven points off the pace.

Confidence will be high in the home camp, too, after they came from two down to secure a point against Huddersfield Town on Friday night, courtesy of a couple of late strike.

"Nothing surprises me in this competition, to be honest, as it's really tough," Silva said in Monday's press conference. "But of course if you asked me if I would expect them to be in a different position right now, definitely yes.

"They started really well but then had a bad run and it's been difficult for them to get on the right track. But we know that they keep believing.

"What they showed in the last 15 minutes against Huddersfield in their last game is that they keep believing, keep fighting to be in a position to be promoted.

"There are many games to play, many points ahead, and they are there, they are fighting.

"Of course they're not in the position they want to be and all of us expected, but nothing's finished yet."

Fulham were comfortable 3-0 victors in the reverse fixture at the Cottage, and although there is a new man at the Hawthorns helm in Steve Bruce, many of the same threats remain, according to Silva.

"It's another really tough game for us," he stated. "We know the way they normally like to approach the game, they're a physical team, they try to press every time.

"We hope the pitch is in a good condition for both teams to play football, I'm sure it will be a proper football pitch.

"It will be a tough match, hopefully we can play at our best level with full confidence in ourselves, but we know we are playing against a physical team.

"They go to win every challenge, they try to be really strong in every challenge. All the set-pieces, long throw-ins, they are the type of physical team that even if they are not playing well or commanding the game, they can create problems for you in these type of situations.

"What we have to do is play our game, we have to use the ball in the right way, take the ball from them, don't let them play a direct game, and be strong in the first and second balls.

"And, after, we have to express ourselves, play with the right intensity, the right mobility as well, because we know if we do that it will be tough for them."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/march/14/pre-west-brom-press-conference/

[WhiteJC]

Up next: West Bromwich Albion (a)

It is difficult to succinctly surmise the emotions of the Fulham faithful following Saturday's draw at Barnsley. There was the obvious anger at another unfathomable refereeing decision that saw the hosts given a penalty for an infringement that nobody has been able to identify. Tosin Adarabioyo, who was shoved away in the aftermath by referee Tim Robinson, appeared to have been fouled himself by Carlton Morris, but was penalised in any case. There was relief when Harry Wilson finally brought the league leaders level with a beautiful finish into the top corner and frustration after the Welsh winger had inexplicably headed the simplest of chances wide in stoppage time.

Ultimately, the dropping of points against a side scrapping for their lives at the wrong end of the table shouldn't unduly damage Fulham's promotion prospects. The Whites still hold a twelve point cushion over Bournemouth, who beat Derby over the weekend and will fancy another three points against struggling Reading tomorrow. But it is a measure of how much of a winner Marco Silva is that when the Sky cameras cut to the Fulham dugout to capture his reaction to Wilson's equaliser they found him castigating his players for continuing their celebrations rather than speeding back to the centre circle to commence the search for a second goal.

The disappointment of the draw with Barnsley, who were disciplined and defiant, added to the sense that Silva's silky football can be nullified by opponents who are willing to sacrifice some of their own attacking instincts and put men behind the ball. It took the visitors an awfully long time to test Brad Collins despite dominating the possession statistics, with Aleksandar Mitrovic well marshalled by the Barnsley centre halves, and a frustrated Fabio Carvalho on the periphery for far too long. Discussions about the length of the grass at Oakwell or a jam-packed schedule are immaterial to me, Fulham should have been much more incisive and, had they taken any of a significant number of early chances, they would not have been left at the mercy of sub-standard officiating.

Contemplating tomorrow night's trip to the Hawthorns, it seems scarcely believable that the Baggies were in third place when they visited Craven Cottage back in September. The Valerian Ismael experiment proved to be a frustrating failure, with the newly installed head coach unable to repeat his heroics with Barnsley, and Albion have only just shown the shown of tenacity expected under his successor, Steve Bruce. West Brom's alarming winter of discontent has left them seven points adrift of a play-off spot having played a game more than most of the top six and they are badly in need of a strong end to the season if they are re-enter the promotion picture.

They grabbed the unlikeliest of points with a stirring late comeback – sparked by another generous penalty award – against in-form Huddersfield on Friday night but languishing in fourteenth position is not where the Baggies wanted to be at this stage of the campaign. Bruce's first win came against Hull City and, while he will have been pleased with the manner of their fightback against Huddersfield, it is a run of victories that will be needed to seriously threaten the play-off spots. Further cheer was provided by the sight of veteran striker Andy Carroll, a familiar Fulham scourge, breaking his Albion duck just in time for the Londoners' visit. The former Newcastle, Liverpool and West Brom forward could be rewarded with a start tomorrow night – possibly at the expense of Callum Robinson.

Silva has largely stuck by his tried and tested eleven for much of this season, eschewing rotation in favour of keeping the faith with a winning formula. Wholesale changes seem unlikely as Fulham have two and a half weeks off after their assignment in the Midlands, although the head coach has admitted he will make a late call on the fitness of Tim Ream and Neeskens Kebano. The American centre half was in the wars at Oakwell, having picked up a dead leg in clearing off the line from Morris at the end of the first half, and coming off worse following a stoppage time clash of heads. Michael Hector would be the favourite to replace the veteran in the starting line-up, although Ream did participate in a recovery session at Motspur Park yesterday.

Given that Neeskens Kebano reported stiffness in his hamstring on Friday, it is unlikely that the Congolese winger, who has been in such good form this season, will be risked with such a short turnaround between matches. Bobby Decordova-Reid, rather wasteful in Yorkshire at the weekend, will likely line up on the left again, but Tom Cairney – who offered some much needed creativity as a half-time substitute – must be a serious contender to start again in the middle of the park.

One of the most commendable aspects of this remarkable Fulham season has been how Silva's side have responded to setbacks. Tuesday offers another chance to underline their credentials as Championship winners, even if Silva and the players themselves keep downplaying their commanding position at the top of the table. Fulham prefer to do their talking on their pitch and they will need to up the intensity in order to complete the double over the Baggies, who will certainly be out to prove a point or two of their own.

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



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/up-next-west-bromwich-albion-a-3/

[WhiteJC]

Robinson wants Fulham to push on

Antonee Robinson knows Fulham will face a fierce battle at the Hawthorns tomorrow night – even if West Brom have slipped out of the promotion picture somewhat in recent months.

The American full back attributes the Baggies' difficult second of the half of the season to the overall strength of the Championship, but believes Steve Bruce will not have given up on the prospect of a promotion push even though Albion currently sit in fourteenth place.

Robinson told FFCTV this afternoon:

"The league's very competitive. You look from the top half of the table, it's anyone's race for the play-off spots and the automatic spots aren't sealed for anyone. They are still going to have in their minds that with a late push at this time of the season, if they can get a couple of wins before the international break, it will be in their heads that they can kick on. We're got to go there, we can't be naïve and think that anything's done. We'll go there with the right mindset, play our game, battle hard, go there and win."

The left back, who had an excellent game at Barnsley on Saturday, certainly won't be taking West Brom lightly.

"They will be trying to put all their strengths and physicality into the game against us. We are just going to have to be on our toes, be ready for anything and try and execute our game plan as well as we can to get the three points because both teams need it. It's all about recovering and come down to a mentality thing and we're just trying to get through it."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/robinson-wants-fulham-to-push-on/

[WhiteJC]

View: West Brom predicted XI vs Fulham

West Brom will look to continue their momentum as they host league leaders Fulham at The Hawthorns on Tuesday night in the Championship.

After six losses in seven games, the Baggies have picked up four points from their last two games including a come-from-behind draw against Huddersfield on Friday night.

With just seven points separating them from the playoff places, Steve Bruce's side need wins between now and the end of the season and that means the manager must make brave team selections.

Despite two big errors in that game on Friday night, Sam Johnstone is almost certain to continue as the goalkeeper from the start.

Arguably the best in the league, West Brom are better with him in the team and his leadership skills will be key in a big game like this.

Recent games have seen improved defensive performances, so Bruce is likely to go with the same back five that he has decided is his best since taking over.

Darnell Furlong and Conor Townsend have been solid as the wing-backs, either side of the centre-back trio Semi Ajayi, Kyle Bartley and Matthew Clarke and all five should expect to get the nod.

Midfield has been the biggest puzzle for Bruce to solve since his tenure began but he seems to have solved it in recent weeks.

The return of captain Jake Livermore has coincided with two positive results after his red card in Bruce's first game meant a four-game suspension.

Summer signing Alex Mowatt has been impressive too in a more advanced role which saw him register an assist against Hull, and he should stay in that position.

Youngster Taylor Gardner-Hickman has been excellent in his two starts for the new manager and he will continue in his box-to-box role that he has now made his own to lose.

Up front, Karlan Grant made it three goals in two appearances as a striker last time out and will undoubtedly continue but the big question mark surrounds who his partner will be.

Callum Robinson started the last two games and has played relatively well, but the impact that Andy Carroll had as a substitute against Huddersfield can't be overlooked.

He got a goal and cleared one off the line while putting himself about, and his physical style will cause Fulham plenty of problems at the back. Daryl Dike has an outside chance of playing, but he'd almost certainly begin on the bench if he's to be involved at all.

Predicted XI: Johnstone; Ajayi, Bartley, Clarke; Furlong, Gardner-Hickman, Livermore, Mowatt, Townsend; Grant, Carroll.



https://www.westbromnews.co.uk/2022/03/14/view-west-brom-predicted-xi-vs-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Steve Bruce explains approach West Brom will take against Fulham

West Brom boss Steve Bruce has vowed to attack Fulham tomorrow night, even though he acknowledged they are the best team in the league.

After a tough start, Albion have picked up four points from the past two games under the former Aston Villa chief, which has just about kept their faint play-off hopes alive.

However, things don't get any easier for Bruce or the Baggies, as they welcome runaway leaders Fulham to The Hawthorns tomorrow knowing they need a win.

And, even though the boss admitted they are coming up against a top side, Bruce made it clear he wants his side to go for the Londoners from the off when speaking to the club's media.

"I believe we've taken small steps over the last couple of games. In my opinion, Fulham are the best team in the league. They've got a guy who has got 35 league goals already this season, which is a remarkable achievement.

"We'll go head-to-head with them and take them on. Let's see how good we are. I think the lads have taken a little bit of confidence recently. To come back the way they did the other night was refreshing for everybody."

The verdict

This is obviously going to be a very tough challenge for Albion, but, as Bruce says, it's a good marker to see where the team are right now against the best in the league.

Whether the Baggies do take them on remains to be seen, but the fans will appreciate the bullish message and it's now down to the players to back that up.

Realistically, West Brom know they need to win to have any chance of reaching the top six, so the task in front of them is clear.




https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/steve-bruce-explains-approach-west-brom-will-take-against-fulham/

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Carvalho set for England under 21s call

England are keen to hand Fulham midfielder Fabio Carvalho a call-up to their under-21 squad – but are waiting for him to pass a British citizenship test.

The talented teenager, who nearly joined Liverpool in January, does not currently hold a British passport and needs to pass a Home Office citizenship test to begin the process. Carvalho, who moved to England from his native Portugal with his family aged 11, has been capped up to under-18 level but cannot feature in competitive fixtures without a passport.

After starring in Fulham's youth team set up, Carvalho made his senior debut as a late substitute in a League Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday in September 2020. He featured in the FA Cup against Burnley before being given a Premier League debut in the 2-0 defeat by Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in May. He scored on his full debut as the already relegated Whites were beaten 3-1 by Southampton.

The nineteen year-old has starred since becoming a first team regular under Marco Silva. Carvalho has scored eight goals and added six assists in 26 appearances this term as Fulham have stormed to the top of the Championship, but his future looks uncertain with his current Craven Cottage contract expiring at the end of this season.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/carvalho-set-for-england-under-21s-call/

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Marco Silva reveals what Fulham cannot let West Brom do on Tuesday, makes Hawthorns pitch claim

Every word Marco Silva had to say about Albion ahead of Tuesday evening's game.

Fulham manager Marco Silva says he is shocked to see West Brom in the current position they are in in the Championship but claims that it will still be an extremely tough match on Tuesday evening.

Albion started the season going head-to-head with the Cottagers for first place in the league but as Silva's side stayed their course, the Baggies drifted further and further away from their ultimate goal.

"Nothing surprises me in this competition to be honest as it's really tough but of course if you asked me if I would expect them to be in a different position right now, definitely yes," the Fulham boss told fulhamfc.com.

"They started really well but then had a bad run and it's been difficult for them to get on the right track. But we know that they keep believing.

"What they showed in the last 15 minutes against Huddersfield in their last game is that they keep believing, keep fighting to be in a position to be promoted.

"There are many games to play, many points ahead, and they are there, they are fighting.

"Of course they're not in the position they want to be and all of us expected, but nothing's finished yet."

Silva was as you'd expect very respectful of Albion when discussing the threat they pose and despite the huge gap that has opened up between the two, the Portuguese manager is still fully anticipating a tough clash.

The 44-year-old also claims there is a certain way his side can simply not give Albion any chance of playing.

"We know the way they normally like to approach the game, they're a physical team, they try to press every time," he added.

"We hope the pitch is in a good condition for both teams to play football, I'm sure it will be a proper football pitch.

"It will be a tough match, hopefully we can play at our best level with full confidence in ourselves, but we know we are playing against a physical team.

"They go to win every challenge, they try to be really strong in every challenge. All the set-pieces, long throw-ins, they are the type of physical team that even if they are not playing well or commanding the game, they can create problems for you in these type of situations.

"What we have to do is play our game, we have to use the ball in the right way, take the ball from them, don't let them play a direct game, and be strong in the first and second balls.

"And, after, we have to express ourselves, play with the right intensity, the right mobility as well, because we know if we do that it will be tough for them."



https://www.birminghamworld.uk/sport/football/west-brom/marco-silva-reveals-what-fulham-cannot-let-west-brom-do-on-tuesday-makes-hawthorns-pitch-claim-3610836

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Luca Ashby-Hammond extends Stockport loan

Fulham goalkeeper Luca Ashby-Hammond has extended his loan spell with Stockport County until the end of the season.

The England youth international made his County debut in Saturday's FA Trophy quarter-final win at Needham Market and will remain at Edgley Park for the run-in as Stockport look to return to the Football League. County are currently four points clear at the top of the National League, with two games in hand on closest challengers Chesterfield.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/luca-ashby-hammond-extends-stockport-loan/

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Fulham want Gomez and Williams

Fulham are eyeing a summer double swoop for Liverpool defenders Joe Gomez and Neco Williams, according to reports this evening.

Williams has enjoyed an outstanding loan spell at Craven Cottage, slotting seamlessly into Marco Silva's system as the Whites have surged away from the Championship's chasing pack. The Welsh international has scored twice and added two more assists in nine appearances for the Whites whilst keeping four clean sheets. Fulham are eager to retain Williams' services as they prepare for another tilt at the top flight next season and another loan deal looks probable at this stage.

Fulham are already drawing up a shortlist of centre halves as they seek to strengthen Silva's defensive options for the challenge to come. England international Gomez, who has made just five Premier League appearances for Jurgen Klopp's side this term, is top of their list but the Londoners are likely to face serious competition in the race to sign the former Charlton defender. Tottenham, Newcastle, West Ham and Everton are all interested in the 24 year-old, who is considering leaving Anfield as he will need first-team football to remain in Gareth Southgate's thoughts.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/fulham-want-gomez-and-williams/