Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 23/03/22...

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Fulham weighing up move for Aston Villa's Matt Targett

Fulham are weighing up a £15million summer move for Aston Villa left-back Matt Targett, with Newcastle United looking unlikely to pursue a permanent move for the loan man.

Targett, 26, is currently on loan at Newcastle United from Aston Villa. The Englishman made the switch in January and has since made seven Premier League appearances for Eddie Howe's side.

Recent reports have suggested that Newcastle will not be pursuing a permanent swoop for Targett however, who is said to be valued at around £15million.

But Championship leaders Fulham are being credited with an interest (via TEAMtalk) ahead of their inevitable Premier League return this season, with the London club said to have already made enquires for the Villa full-back.

Fulham boss Marco Silva has Joe Bryan and Antonee Robinson at left-back. But neither have shone in the Premier League before and so a mini squad overhaul looks to be on the cards at Craven Cottage should they earn promotion this season.

On Targett...
Fulham have spent money in the past, but it wasn't very wisely. Upon their earlier promotion to the Premier League they spent over £10million on the likes of Jean Michael Seri, Andre-Drank Zambo Anguissa and more, but with Silva at the helm there seems to be a much different feeling about the club.

The Londoners look a much more solidified unit on the pitch. Scott Parker previously dragged Fulham across the line to promotion whereas Silva's side have never looked in doubt, and the transfer rumours emerging ahead of the summer suggest that they could become a Premier League side for years to come.

Neco Williams is wanted on a permanent transfer, and Targett is now a target. It bodes well for Fulham fans but the job is not yet done – up next for them is a trip to west London neighbours QPR.



https://the72.co.uk/267293/fulham-weighing-up-move-for-aston-villas-matt-targett/

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"I think there's a Premier League player there" – Fulham fan pundit wants club to strike Liverpool transfer agreement

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Liverpool defender Neco Williams is keen on a permanent switch to Fulham following the conclusion of the 2021-22 season, according to Football Insider.

The 20-year-old Wales international made a January deadline day switch to the Cottagers after being restricted to just nine appearances in all competitions for Jurgen Klopp's side this season.

Williams has flourished since the move, scoring twice and assisting two goals in nine appearances for Marco Silva's outfit and has forged an understanding partnership with ex-Reds midfielder Harry Wilson down the right flank.

With his path into the first-team at Anfield blocked by Trent Alexander-Arnold, Williams is reportedly willing to make the loan switch a more full-time arrangement, with Liverpool apparently valuing him at £12 million.

And according to FLW's Fulham fan pundit Matt Baldwin, the club's hierarchy should be making the signing of Williams this summer a high priority one.

"I think for the price that is being quoted I would snap Liverpool's hand off for that," Matt said.

"I think you look at what Neco's managed to do – he's had various spurts at Liverpool but when I've seen him he's never really put in a bad performance and there's a hint that there's a Premier League player there.

"But also I think he's taken to the Championship like a duck to water and the fact he's keeping Kenny Tete out of the side, who was arguably the best right-back in the division for a long spell, that just shows how well Neco has done.

"So I think there's a Premier League player there, and also when you look at what he's able to do with his versatility because whilst he's naturally a right-back he has played at left wing back at times for Wales and I know that's a position that we're probably going to strengthen.

"So if he has to be pushed out there then so be it – I've also seen things that he can play as a right winger or in a more attacking role so the flexibility is there and for that sort of money based on what he's done for us in the Championship, I think that would be an excellent deal, especially when you consider that quality depth is something that we've lacked each time we go up to the Premier League.

"If you go up with right-backs in Kenny Tete and Neco Williams, I think we would be in a very strong position."

The Verdict

Williams, despite being just 20 years old, has a bit of a pedigree already having played in the Premier League, European competitions and at international level.

But when you have Trent Alexander-Arnold in-front of you in the pecking order then what hope do you have?

Williams has been unlucky to bump into a world-class talent in the same position, and it's unlikely he will ever get a look-in on a regular basis at Anfield.

Therefore the potential permanent move to Craven Cottage makes a ton of sense and it could be a platform for bigger things considering he will more-than likely have that position locked down at right-back for years to come.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/i-think-theres-a-premier-league-player-there-fulham-fan-pundit-wants-club-to-strike-liverpool-transfer-agreement/

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Trusted reporter fuels transfer rumour that player wants Liverpool exit this summer with Fulham interested

The Athletic's James Pearce has suggested that Liverpool youngster Neco Williams may not be happy playing as back-up to Trent Alexander Arnold next season, amid links to Fulham.

Williams, 20, joined Championship leaders Fulham on loan during the January transfer window.

Since, the right-back has featured nine times in the second tier, scoring twice and assisting as many and proving to be a really keen addition to Marco Silva's side.

Earlier in the month, reports emerged suggesting that the London club were keen on re-signing Williams in the summer, either permanently or on loan again.

And soon after that, it was revealed that the Welshman wanted to make the permanent switch to Crave Cottage.

It's a move that could well come to fruition in the summer, and fuelling that rumour, The Athletic reporter Pearce recently wrote in a Q&A:

"Very difficult to find anyone who has Trent's skillset. Neco Williams doing very well at Fulham on loan. But whether he would be happy being Trent's deputy next season I'm not sure."



https://the72.co.uk/267320/trusted-reporter-fuels-transfer-rumour-that-player-wants-liverpool-exit-this-summer-with-fulham-interested/

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Africa: Cameroon's Zambo Anguissa to Miss Algeria Tie

Confederation of African Football (Giza)

Cameroon midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa had suffered an injury at his Italian club Napoli and will be unavailable for Cameroon in their decisive 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Algeria.

The injury to the midfielder is a severe blow to coach Rigobert Song and his staff as they will have to make do without star midfielder.

Cameroon will host the Desert Foxes of Algeria at the Douala Japoma stadium on March 25, before both teams face each other again on March 29, at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Bilda.

Zambo lasted the duration of Napoli's 2-1 win against Udinese in match day 30 of the Italian serie A last Saturday. However, Serge Guiffo, Cameroon's team Media Officer has revealed the midfielder picked up an injury, and will miss the double confrontation against Algeria.

"Injured in the club this weekend, Franck Zambo Anguissa is forfeited for the double confrontation against Algeria on March 25 and 29, 2022 counting for the play-offs of the #FIFAWC2022Q African zone," reads a statement from the communication team of the indomitable lions.

Anguissa, 25, featured in six of Cameroon's seven games at the TotalEnergies AFCON 2021, and was instrumental in the team's third place finish in the competition.

In an attempt to fill the voids left by Anguissa, Rigobert Song has summoned experienced Apollon Limassol's midfielder Arnaud Djoum.

32 year-old Arnaud Djoum has not been a regular with the Indomitable Lions since helping them to clinch their fifth continental crown during the TotalEnergies AFCON 2017 in Gabon. He is expected to fill the void left by Zambo Anguissa.

It is still not clear the type of injury Anguissa suffered, as both the player and his club are yet to make a statement.

The game against Algeria will be Rigobert Song's first at the helm of the Indomitable, with a ticket to Qatar 2022 at stake.

Cameroon will be in the haunt for their eighth world cup participation, against an Algerian side that is in search of their fifth appearance at the global event, with the hopes of doing better than their round of 16 finish in Brazil 2014.



https://allafrica.com/stories/202203220239.html

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Sources: Fulham chances of potential deal for 29-year-old resting on West Ham transfer stance

Fulham will look to re-sign Alphonse Areola if they are promoted to the Premier League but Football League World understands their chances of that hinge on West Ham.

Areola is currently on loan with West Ham in the Premier League from PSG. He's made only one Premier League appearance for David Moyes' side, but he's impressed in their Europa League campaign, keeping four clean sheets in seven outings on their journey to the quarter-finals.

The Athletic reported that there's an option for the Hammers to re-sign the 29-year-old for 2022/23, either on loan or permanently, with an £11m clause there to be activated.

It's Football League World's understanding that if Fulham are promoted back to the Premier League, they will look to link back up with Areola.

However, their chances of doing that rest on whether or not West Ham activate the options that they have when it comes to signing the goalkeeper for another season or beyond.

Areola, who was named Fulham Fans' Player of the Year, made 37 appearances for Fulham across all competitions last season, including 36 in the Premier League as they were relegated.

Despite that, and a change in manager, Fulham are on course to return to the top-flight this term.

Marco Silva's side sit top of the Championship table on 77 points, eight clear of AFC Bournemouth in second and 14 ahead of Luton Town in third.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/sources-fulham-chances-of-potential-deal-for-29-year-old-resting-on-west-ham-transfer-stance/

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Opinion: £12 million summer deal involving Fulham and Liverpool would make sense for all parties

According to Football Insider, Liverpool have placed a £12 million pound price tag on Neco Williams this summer.

Williams is currently on loan at table-topping Championship side Fulham after joining the club for the remainder of the season in the January transfer window.

The Football Insider report states that if Fulham are promoted to the Premier League, they will attempt to sign Williams permanently in the summer and, that the player himself would be keen on making the switch permanent in an attempt to establish himself as a first team regular.

With that being said, I believe that this would be a move that suits all parties this summer.

Firstly, from Fulham's perspective, they would be getting a player who has already impressed a lot in just a short time with the club.

So far, Williams has made nine Championship appearances, scoring two goals and registering two assists from right back.

If Fulham get promoted, they will have the financial resources to improve their team, and given Liverpool's valuation is only said to be £12 million pounds, this would be a deal that made complete sense for the club as they looked to build a squad capable of staying up in the Premier League.

It would be a move that made sense for Williams himself, too.

For the first time in the 20-year-old's short career, he is playing regular football and if he made the move to Craven Cottage, he would have the chance to establish himself as a first team player in the Premier League, providing a late collapse from Fulham in the Championship this season.

Williams finds himself behind one of the best full-back's in the world at Liverpool in Trent Alexander-Arnold, so barring some sort of long term injury, would be unlikely to get regular game time at Anfield, no matter how much he impressed.

For that very reason it could make sense for Liverpool to allow Williams to leave this summer, too.

As above, he is unlikely to be a first team regular whilst Alexander-Arnold occupies the right-back berth at Anfield, and they would be getting £12 million pounds for a player that is essentially surplus to requirements.

Williams could be a reasonable squad player for them, but if he wants to leave and play regularly, it may not be worth keeping an unhappy player just for the sake of the odd appearance here and there. Particularly when James Milner often does a fine job deputising at right back.

All things considered, then,  a £12 million pound summer move for Neco Williams from Liverpool to Fulham could make sense for all parties involved.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/opinion-12-million-summer-deal-involving-fulham-and-liverpool-would-make-sense-for-all-parties/

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Club want €4m Fulham discount – Feel they can ask after player's injuries

André-Frank Zambo Anguissa has had an instant impact at Napoli since he joined them on a loan deal from Fulham towards the end of the 2021 summer transfer window.

The midfielder enjoyed a good run of games before picking up an injury, which kept him out of action for three weeks between November and December.

He missed the Serie A side's fixtures in January and the first week of February as the Fulham owned player was with Cameroon at the 2021 AFCON.

After returning to the Naples club, the 26-year-old picked up two injuries and the last one was against Udinese on Saturday. The former Marseille man's latest setback has forced him to miss Cameroon's upcoming matches in March.

Il Mattino state Napoli want Anguissa to make himself available when they face Atalanta after the international break.

The Italian club will have to deal with making his stay permanent after this season, after Luciano Spalletti's side and Fulham agreed a €15m buying option.

However, the report explains Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli 'will try to snatch a discount' of €4m, 'in light of this season's' physical problems endured by Anguissa.

There's nothing to indicate whether Fulham are ready to offer any discount to Napoli to buy the Cameroon international.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/director-will-try-to-snatch-discount-from-fulham-to-sign-cottagers-player-in-summer/

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Fulham's two most underwhelming signings from the last 5 years and why – Do you agree?

Fulham are currently in pole position to secure their return to the Premier League at the first time of asking, establishing themselves as the most consistent team in the division.

Considering the quality they have in their squad with Aleksandar Mitrovic remaining loyal to the cause, this dominance is no real surprise, although their attacking record is even better than many people thought it would be.

Their summer recruitment has played a part in the Cottagers being such a threat going forward, signing Harry Wilson from Liverpool in a sizeable £12m deal and bringing in Rodrigo Muniz to compete with Mitrovic for a starting spot.

Unfortunately, the Brazilian's playing time has been limited by Mitrovic's brilliance, but he could still be a real asset between now and the end of the season as Marco Silva's men look to push themselves over the line.

It's Wilson's arrival that has proven to be particularly fruitful for the west London outfit though, with the Welsh international recording 10 goals and 14 assists in 33 league matches, ensuring his side aren't reliant on their current top scorer.

There have been additions that haven't worked out though in the past five years. We have taken a look at just two of the more disappointing ones from this period.

Alfie Mawson
This was a close call between Mawson and Terence Kongolo, with the latter also suffering with injury problems during his time at Craven Cottage and not even being fit enough to be involved in the first team currently.

A move away for him in the summer is looking more and more likely by the day – and it wouldn't be a surprise if teammate Mawson was moved on as well.

It was reported in January that the Cottagers were keen to retain him despite interest from Birmingham City – but isn't being used anywhere near enough to be a valuable part of the first tea – making just six league appearances this term.

In total, he has appeared just 52 times for the Cottagers in a four-year spell in the English capital and considering he cost the club around £20m back in 2018, this is a real disappointment.

This price tag is why Mawson is in this piece over Kongolo, with the 28-year-old not even being able to make an impact away from the second-tier side with a loan spell at Bristol City also being heavily disrupted by injuries.

At this stage, he looks set to leave the club for free in the summer and although they forked out an eight-figure fee for his services to recruit him, letting him go is probably the best option at this stage.

Andre Schurrle
This one is based on reputation rather than cost.

Like Mawson, former German international Schurrle joined the club back in the summer of 2018 as part of a spending spree that didn't work out for the Cottagers.

Signing on a two-year loan deal from Borussia Dortmund and playing a big part in Germany's World Cup win four years prior to his arrival in the English capital, he was expected to keep the club afloat in the top tier with his quality and CV.

And although he wasn't the only one at fault for their relegation at the end of the 2018/19 season, he didn't exactly live up to expectations despite a spectacular goal against Burnley.

Scoring six goals in 24 league appearances certainly isn't a terrible total – but more was expected from the 31-year-old and after their relegation – he left a year early to return to Dortmund.

Is he remembered fondly in west London? You wouldn't say so.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulhams-two-most-underwhelming-signings-from-the-last-5-years-and-why-do-you-agree/

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European club set for fresh attempt to renegotiate Fulham transfer deal

Italian side Napoli will attempt to sign Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa from Fulham this summer for a price cheaper than what the two clubs agreed to when including an option in his loan deal to make the move permanent, according to Il Mattino (via Sport Witness).

The Cameroon international played a regular part for the Cottagers in the Premier League last season under Scott Parker, making 36 appearances after returning from a loan spell at Spanish outfit Villarreal.

However the midfielder seemingly had no intentions of sticking around in the Championship, and on transfer deadline day in August he secured a loan move to Napoli whilst also extending his contract with the west Londoners in order to protect his value.

That would come in useful if Napoli choose not to trigger the option in the loan move that would bring the 26-year-old to Naples on a permanent basis, but it was reported last week by Corriere del Mezzogiorno that it was inevitable that he would become a full-time player for the club.

The club's sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli though is set to approach Fulham's hierarchy to ask them to knock €4 million off the proposed €15 million price set in the deal though due to Anguissa's recent injury issues, which has seen him restricted to just 18 appearances in the league this season.

Anguissa suffered an adductor injury earlier in the campaign and having picked up another setback recently, he will miss his country's World Cup qualifiers this week.

The Verdict

It appears that Napoli are trying to drive Anguissa's price down as much as possible to try and get the best bargain they can.

But it wouldn't be in Fulham's best interests to accept the proposed offer just because the midfielder has suffered a few injuries – they are part and parcel of football.

Fulham would already be taking a big loss on the player who was rumoured to cost around £30 million in 2018 when he arrived from Marseille, and having rejected a £22.5 million bid from Villarreal in 2020 the figure just keeps on decreasing.

At this rate it looks like Napoli will have to pay the initially agreed fee or else Anguissa will be returning to Craven Cottage – that may not be a bad thing as the club can either sell him on for potentially more money or he can reintegrate into Marco Silva's side.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/european-club-set-for-fresh-attempt-to-renegotiate-fulham-transfer-deal/

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Report shares Swansea City's stance on the prospect of signing Fulham loanee Cyrus Christie

On-loan Swansea City defender Cyrus Christie is out of contract in the summer, and the Welsh side could well open talks over a permanent move at the end of the season, according to Wales Online.

The Swans signed Christie on loan from league leaders Fulham in January, after not making a single appearance for the Cottagers in the first half of the Championship campaign.

Since joining Swansea City, the right-back has made 14 appearances, scoring and assisting twice, and has earned heaps of praise from fans of the Welsh club.

He is set to leave the club in the summer, with his loan deal expiring in June 2022, as well as his Fulham contract. But, as per Wales Online, both parties are enthusiastic to open talks over a free transfer, with Christie on impressive form.

What could the future hold?

It is unknown whether any other clubs are eyeing up a move for the full-back, but he has been largely out of favour since signing for the Cottagers in 2018, meaning it's almost certain both ends do not want a new deal. Martin, on the other hand, has already said he'd love to sign Christie permanently.

The 29-year-old is in and around his peak age, and should he re-sign for the Swans, he could well play a big part in what could be a special season for Russell Martin's side, as they will look to put this season behind them, sitting in 16th place of the Championship table.

Next up for the Swans is the South Wales derby as they prepare to face neighbours Cardiff City after the international break.



https://the72.co.uk/267351/report-shares-swansea-citys-stance-on-the-prospect-of-signing-fulham-loanee-cyrus-christie/

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Fulham planning Hammers hijack – report

Fulham are ready to enter the bidding for Alphonse Areola in the summer, according to a new report.

Football League World claims that the Championship side have been keeping a keen eye on Areola's performances for the Hammers, and that they are prepared to bid for the Frenchman in the summer, provided the Irons opt against keeping him.

West Ham have two options with the goalkeeper and could either keep him on loan for another season or sign him permanently from PSG for a fee of around £11m.

Fulham had Areola on loan last season, and he actually won their Fans' Player of the Year award, but their relegation scuppered any chances of him remaining at Craven Cottage.

The club are the runaway leaders in the Championship, sitting eight points clear of second-placed Bournemouth and 14 clear of third-placed Luton, so promotion is a formality.

When they win promotion, the report claims they will try to do a deal for Areola, but it isn't clear if PSG would be receptive to an approach from another club.



https://www.claretandhugh.info/fulham-planning-hammers-hijack-report/

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Which Fulham stars will be joining their international sides this month?

Fulham now have an extended break until the beginning of April due to a number of players jetting off for international duty.

The Championship leaders have had a plethora of their talent called up to represent their nations in either friendlies, World Cup qualifiers or World Cup play-offs.

Aleksandar Mitrović (Serbia)

The Championship top scorer has had by far his best season yet with over 40 goal contributions already for his side. His Serbian record is also impressive and he'll be hoping to carry that on in the upcoming friendlies.

Antonee Robinson (United States)

The 24-year-old left back will be hoping he can help push the USA over the edge in their World Cup Qualifiers. They currently sit second behind Canada.

Neeskens Kebano (Congo)

Congo are preparing for a two legged game against Morroco in the World Cup play-offs. They'll be hoping, after topping their group, they'll have enough to get over the line.

Marek Rodák (Slovakia)

Rodak will be joining Slovakia in hope of challenging Martin Dubravka for the number one shirt.

Jean Michaël Seri (Ivory Coast)

The Ivory Coast are set for two incredibly tough friendlies against France and England, games where Seri may be asked to play a key role.

Neco Williams and Harry Wilson (Wales)

Both Williams and Wilson will be hoping to play a part in their team's World Cup qualifier against Austria. The defender and attacker have been promising for Fulham this season and the importance of this game won't be undermined by them.

Fabio Carvalho (Portugal)

The Portuguese-born attacker and reported Liverpool target has been called up to Portugal's U21 squad ahead of their games against Iceland and Greece, despite playing for England's youth set-up in the past.

The 19-year-old is a hugely bright talent and there's a chance Gareth Southgate and England may have missed a huge star here.

What does this mean for Fulham fans?

All they can do is wait and hope that their star players don't lose form or pick up injuries whilst representing their countries. Although Fulham look set to gain automatic promotion, losing any of these men would impact their team.



https://the72.co.uk/267156/which-fulham-stars-will-be-joining-their-international-sides-this-month/

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Neco Williams from Liverpool to Fulham permanently: What do we know so far? Is a transfer likely to happen?

Fulham were able to pip Championship promotion rivals AFC Bournemouth to the deadline day signing of Liverpool full-back Neco Williams in January, and the Wales international has been a key player for the Cottagers since his arrival.

The 20-year-old has appeared in nine Championship matches so far under Marco Silva, scoring twice and providing two assists as he's slotted in seamlessly at right-back.

As the west London club get closer to securing promotion back to the top flight of English football, transfer rumours will swirl regarding potential incomings at Craven Cottage and there has already been chatter about the future of Williams.

What do we know so far?

Williams is only on loan until the end of the current campaign, but there's a chance that it could become a more permanent deal.

Reporter Graeme Bailey stated last week to Anfield Watch that Fulham have already made their desire clear to have Williams on board next season – presumably when they are contesting Premier League football – and that another loan deal was the most likely course of action.

However in another report from Football Insider, Williams has apparently expressed his willingness to secure a permanent move to Fulham, with Liverpool said to value him at £12 million.

Is a transfer likely to happen?

Considering Trent Alexander-Arnold plays in his position at Anfield, you cannot blame Williams for wanting to further his career, especially when it appears that Fulham rate him so highly.

And when they inevitably do win promotion, there will be a decent transfer budget in place for Silva to strengthen his side – £12 million if that is the right value could represent a bargain considering Williams' potential.

The fact that Liverpool want Fabio Carvalho from Fulham could make a deal easier to sort out for Williams, who is likely not going to get much game-time at the Reds because of Alexander-Arnold's presence.

Therefore, you could assume that a transfer this summer – potentially including a hefty sell-on clause of a buy-back clause, would be very likely.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/neco-williams-from-liverpool-to-fulham-permanently-what-do-we-know-so-far-is-a-transfer-likely-to-happen/

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International Preview: World Cup In Sight

A number of Fulham players have huge matches on the horizon in their quests to secure a spot at the upcoming 2022 World Cup.

Neeskens Kebano and Antonee Robinson could book their places in Qatar this month, while Harry Wilson and Neco Williams will be looking to take one step closer as they navigate the European Play-Offs.

The African qualifying section sees the 10 group winners from Round Two go head-to-head in a two-legged Play-Off, which pits Kebano's Democratic Republic of Congo against Morocco.

It will be a difficult test for Neeskens and his teammates, as they face the only side who had a 100 per cent record in the Group Stage, scoring 20 times and conceding just once in six matches.

Congo host the First Leg on Friday 25th March, before travelling to Casablanca for the reverse fixture which takes place the following Tuesday.

Robinson's United States are well placed to secure an 11th World Cup appearance with three qualifiers to go.

They currently sit second in the CONCACAF qualifying table, with the top three automatically progressing to Qatar, while fourth place will compete in an Inter-Confederation Play-Off.

While their destiny is in their own hands, a tricky hat-trick of fixtures awaits the USMNT, with each opponent still capable of securing automatic qualification.

A trip to Mexico City is a tasty first encounter on Friday, with the two sides currently separated by goal difference.

They then host fourth placed Panama in Orlando on the Monday, before rounding their campaign off away to qualification outsiders Costa Rica on the final day of the month.

Closer to home, Wilson and Williams are hoping to take a step closer to a first World Cup appearance for Wales in 64 years.

They are two matches away from booking their spot in Qatar at the end of the year, with a Play-Off Semi-Final against Austria first up.

As a seeded side when the draw was made, Wales will have home advantage, hosting the Austrians at the Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday.

If they win, the original schedule would have had them competing against the winner of Scotland versus Ukraine in a Play-Off Final five days later, but for obvious reasons that tie has been postponed.

If Wales get through their Semi, it is likely they will have to wait until June to have the chance to lock in their spot at the winter tournament.

Away from the World Cup, three Fulham players could see friendly action over the international period.

Aleksandar Mitrović – whose heroics sent Serbia to Qatar – has two away days against Hungary and Denmark, Marek Rodák will be hoping to add to his 11 caps when Slovakia meet Norway and Finland, while Jean Michaël Seri has a high profile double-header, as Ivory Coast follow up a meeting with France in Marseille with a clash against England at Wembley Stadium.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/march/22/international-preview-world-cup-in-sight/

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"In a situation similar to Neeskens Kebano" – Fulham fan pundit weighs up future of defender at the club

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Tim Ream has been a mainstay in the Fulham defence this season, appearing in all 37 league matches for the Cottagers.

The club currently sit top of the Championship with a 14 point gap between themselves and Huddersfield Town in third place, meaning automatic promotion to the Premier League is on barring a late collapse.

With that promotion though, comes a dilemma with Ream's contract expiring at the end of the season.

At 34-years-old, Ream isn't getting any younger, and having been a part of two side's relegated from the Premier League, this summer could be the time for the club to move on from the man who has captained them this season.

With that being said, we asked FLW's Fulham fan pundit Matt Baldwin for his thoughts on whether or not Fulham should extend Tim Ream's contract beyond the summer.

"I think Ream is in a situation similar to Neeskens Kebano," Matt told FLW.

"He has shown that he is a good championship player and has served us well, has been part of two promotion sides and now this is going to be a third, touch wood and all that,"

"But, I think the time has come (to let him go)."

"He's a very, very good championship defender, he's an experienced head, he's a good leader where I think Tom Cairney has been pretty lacking in that area as it were so there are some benefits (to keeping him) but I think if we want to progress as a club we need to be doing a lot better than having him as a centre back."

"By all means, if we want to hold onto him for a year as an emergency back up or to play in those early cup games where we'll look for players to rest, then by all means do it, but I think if you're signing him on just to play those you're really only looking to get five games from him if were being honest."

"So I think for what we would have to pay him in wages, I do not think it's worth having him around."

"I think it's time to move on."

The Verdict

This is really unfortunate timing for both Fulham and Tim Ream.

Ream has been excellent and a mainstay in the Fulham backline, so it feels cruel to even consider the fact he may not get to go up with Fulham into the Premier League.

With that being said, the points raised by Matt are correct, and last time the Cottagers were in the top flight, Ream only made seven appearances.

At 34 years old it is not like he is constantly improving, therefore it is likely he would be a bit part player once again this time around.

I think this should all depend on the wages being discussed, but if I was Fulham, I'd hold on to Ream for one more season if he agrees to stay for a reasonable salary.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/in-a-situation-similar-to-neeskens-kebano-fulham-fan-pundit-weighs-up-future-of-defender-at-the-club/

[WhiteJC]

Cook to join us ahead of Fulham clash

QPR are pleased to announce that R's legend Lee Cook has now confirmed his attendance at The Broadcaster - our official offsite hospitality venue - for our Sky Bet Championship match against Fulham on Saturday 2nd April 2022.

The Broadcaster is located adjacent to the vibrant Television Centre in west London and the venue will provide you with the perfect surroundings in which to entertain clients, or to come along with family and friends.

The Broadcaster is just minutes away from Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium, allowing you the freedom to savour the pre-match excitement and atmosphere along with former R's winger Cook, before taking the short stroll to the ground to take your reserved seating to watch the match.

To make the most of your experience, we recommend you arrive at 11am.
Timings for the day are as follows:

    11:00 – Venue opens
    12:00 – Restaurant opens
    14:00 – Q&A session with QPR legend Lee Cook
    14:30 – Depart for Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium
    15:00 – Kick-off

Your package will include:

    Three course à la carte menu
    Half a bottle of wine or two beers
    Tea / coffee
    Cash bar

Tickets are priced at £129 excluding VAT per person. To book or for more information please contact the commercial team on 020 8740 2560 or email [email protected].



https://www.qpr.co.uk/news/club-news/lee-cook-in-attendance-at-the-broadcaster-ahead-of-fulham-clash-220322/

[WhiteJC]

Opinion: Fulham must stand their ground in transfer negotiations for 26-year-old

In a matter of weeks, Fulham could have their promotion back to the Premier League sealed if they are able to use the international break to get over their recent bad patch of form.

That bad patch has only lasted two matches, with just one point picked up from trips to Barnsley and West Brom, but Marco Silva knows that it will take only a few more wins to get the Cottagers back to the top flight at the first time of asking.

When that happens, Silva and the club hierarchy will be looking at immediately strengthening the squad for a new challenge you'd think, but they will also have to look at the make-up of the current playing staff.

And they may have a transfer battle coming sooner than expected if recent reports in Italy are to be believed.

On transfer deadline day in August 2021, the club allowed Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who once cost Fulham in the region of £30 million, to head out on loan to Italian side Napoli, despite featuring in three Championship games already.

Clubs like Arsenal and Aston Villa had been linked earlier in the summer with the Cameroon international, but he ended up heading to Naples and there was rumoured to be a €15 million optional future fee in the deal – despite Fulham extending his contract at the same time.

Anguissa has appeared 18 times in Serie A as his new side sit in second position behind A.C. Milan currently, but the 26-year-old has spent time out injured in periods.

It's because of that and his latest setback which means he cannot play for his country in World Cup qualifiers this week that Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli is reportedly planning on asking Fulham to reduce the future transfer fee to €11 million, which equates to £9.2 million, in light of his injury struggles.

Considering Fulham were set to make a major loss on Anguissa anyway, it may not seem like a lot – but the Cottagers need to look at the bigger picture when considering this apparent deal.

Due to Anguissa's performances for Napoli, if they turn down the negotiation and Luciano Spalletti's side refuse to pay the fee initially agreed then they could do one of two things – and both could benefit the Khan family.

For one, Anguissa could return to the Fulham squad for pre-season and be a part of their Premier League squad, which considering he played 36 times in the 2020-21 campaign he should be more-than willing to do.

If not, the Fulham transfer team could negotiate a new increased fee off the back of his performances on the continent as he is surely worth more than the €15 million that was touted last summer.

In the end it could all prove inconsequential as Napoli could end up triggering that clause, but if they don't due to Fulham not budging on decreasing the fee then it could really be a good thing for Fulham Football Club.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/opinion-fulham-must-stand-their-ground-in-transfer-negotiations-for-26-year-old/

[WhiteJC]

Williams wants to take Fulham 'rhythm' into Wales clash

Neco Williams believes playing regular football with Fulham will serve him very well in Wales' crunch World Cup play-off with Austria later this weekend.

The Liverpool full back told Sky Sports this afternoon that his successful loan spell at Craven Cottage – where he has starred as Marco Silva's side have surged clear at the top of the Championship squad – stands him in good stead for international duty.

"Being at Liverpool, you've got the world's best players in front of you and for me, I've got Trent [Alexander-Arnold] and Andy Robertson in front of me. I don't think I've ever gone into a Wales camp and played regular football. It's always been in and out, trying to keep myself fit individually by training and doing different stuff in the gym.

I think this is the first camp I've come into playing regular football. I've got match fitness, match rhythm. I think that will 100% help me into the game coming up. It's one massive game for the whole of Wales, not just for the players, and as long we bring everyone we've got into that game – and hopefully get the win – we'll put the smiles on everyone around Wales."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/williams-wants-to-take-fulham-rhythm-into-wales-clash/

[WhiteJC]

Wales youngsters dream of World Cup as much as 'golden generation' - Neco Williams

Neco Williams made his Wales debut in a Nations League win over Finland in September 2020

Men's World Cup qualifier play-off semi-final: Wales v Austria
Venue: Cardiff City Stadium Date: Thursday, 24 March Kick-off: 19:45 GMT
Coverage: Live on BBC Radio 5 Live, Radio Wales, Radio Cymru, BBC Sport website and app, plus live text online. Highlights BBC Two Wales from 23:15 GMT and later on demand

Liverpool defender Neco Williams says Wales' young players are just as desperate to qualify for a World Cup as the country's 'golden generation'.

Wales host Austria in a play-off semi-final on Thursday, with the winners to face Scotland or Ukraine in the final.

Key players such as Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen - all in their 30s - have said this could be their last chance to qualify for a World Cup.

"You think about it all the time," said Williams, 20, who is on loan at Fulham.

"As players you always want to play in the biggest of tournaments and on the biggest stages.

"Just as much as the older senior lads want to qualify, it's exactly the same for us younger lads.

"We're all in the same boat, we all want to qualify and it would mean everything to us."

Bale, Ramsey and Allen have played important roles in the most successful era in Wales' history, helping their country qualify for back-to-back European Championships.

All three were integral to their run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals - the furthest Wales have been at a major competition - with Ramsey and Allen named in Uefa's team of the tournament.

That was only Wales' second appearance at a major finals and their first since the 1958 World Cup, which remains the only time they have qualified for the competition.

At the start of Wales' qualifying campaign for the 2022 World Cup a year ago, Bale said: "It might be the last time our generation has the chance to qualify for a World Cup."

The captain will be approaching his 37th birthday when the 2026 World Cup starts, while Ramsey and Allen will be 35 and 36 respectively.

All three are in the Wales squad for Thursday's play-off semi-final against Austria.

"It's massive. It's been a long wait, a long time since Wales qualified for a World Cup," said Williams.

"I'm sure the whole of Wales is looking forward to it. If we win that, then we're one step closer to the World Cup.

"We've got players who've played in massive games and this will come close to any of those.

"It would mean everything. I know the whole Welsh nation is supporting us, all the fans around Wales are with us and I know the atmosphere is going to be incredible."

The winner of Wales and Austria's semi-final had been due to face the winner of Scotland against Ukraine on 29 March but, because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, that game has been postponed.

Scotland and Ukraine's fixture is now expected to be played in June, with the play-off final set to follow in the same month.




https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/60834294

[WhiteJC]

Sky to show Derby v Fulham

Fulham's trip to Derby County on Good Friday has been selected for live television coverage by Sky Sports and will now kick off at 8pm on Friday 15 April.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/03/sky-to-show-derby-v-fulham/