Friday Fulham Stuff - 20/05/22...

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"I'm just not 100 per cent" – Fulham fan pundit reacts as transfer agreement for 19-cap international edges closer

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...

Fulham are closing in on adding a new goalkeeper to their ranks ahead of their return to the Premier League for the 2022-23 season.

La Reppublica, via Serie B News, reported last week that Lazio stopper Thomas Strakosha was closing in on a switch to Craven Cottage with his contract at the Serie A club set to expire this summer.

The latest update on the deal, per Tuttomercatoweb, is that the Albanian international's signing-on fee demands are currently too high for Fulham to accept, although negotiations will continue to come to a compromise.

It looks like the 27-year-old will come to an agreement in the end to join Marco Silva's side, but FLW's Fulham fan pundit Matt Baldwin is not convinced that Strakosha is the answer and would prefer other targets to be explored.

"My knowledge of him isn't exactly the greatest – all I've really got to go off is highlights and things from Twitter, but just from what I've seen of him, even though he is a free transfer which would help with things like Financial Fair Play and balance sheets and leaving money for the rest of the transfer window, I'm just not 100 per cent," Matt said.

"I think there are other goalkeepers we could have out there that I would be more willing to spend the money on.

"We've been linked with Alphonse Areola for instance, I've seen a fee mentioned for around £12 million, I think knowing what we have with Areola because of what he brought for us last time around in the Premier League, I would much rather go out and get him than bring in someone who is some extent untested.

"If we do get him, I wouldn't be thrilled, I wouldn't be too disappointed either, but I think given the situation we're in I just think there should be even better players that we should be looking at instead of him."

The Verdict

Fulham had been linked with a plethora of goalkeepers even before their promotion was confirmed – Nick Pope, Dean Henderson and Alphonse Areola to name a few.

They would all cost a lot of money in terms of transfer fee and wages though, so Strakosha with all his international and Serie A experience would represent a bargain.

He would probably represent an upgrade on both Marek Rodak and Paulo Gazzaniga, although you cannot be certain of that until he's seen in a Fulham shirt.

Providing that the signing-on fee issue can be sorted, it does look like Strakosha will be the club's new number one, and he's certainly going to be an intriguing addition to the squad.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/im-just-not-100-per-cent-fulham-fan-pundit-reacts-as-transfer-agreement-for-19-cap-international-edges-closer/

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Update emerges on Fulham's potential transfer pursuit of €10m-rated winger

Promoted outfit Fulham are not in the race for Sporting Lisbon winger Gonzalo Plata despite his services being offered to the Cottagers, according to an update from Portuguese outlet A Bola.

Marco Silva's side are currently in the process of preparing for the summer window following their promotion back to the Premier League – and are already thought to be closing in on their first major agreement of the summer with Shakhtar Donetsk winger Manor Solomon set to arrive in the English capital.

This is despite the club taking up the option to extend Neeskens Kebano's contract by a further 12 months after seeing the 30-year-old record nine goals and six assists in 40 league matches during the 2021/22 campaign.

They were also linked with another wide player Plata who has plied his trade with Spanish second-tier side Real Valladolid on loan from parent side Lisbon, recording five goals and five assists in 28 league appearances.

The 21-year-old also seems to be available this summer too with A Bola reporting that he was offered to Silva's side by the player's representatives ahead of a potential summer approach, with other clubs also invited to make a move after his potential €10m permanent move to Valladolid failed to materialise.

But the Portuguese outlet believes the Cottagers have declined this opportunity to recruit the winger with the English side failing to see him as part of their plans.

The Verdict:

Although Plata is only 21 and with that, there's plenty of time for improvement, his stats in the Spanish second tier aren't exactly too impressive and this is why the Cottagers are wise to steer clear of this potential agreement for now.

What they need at this stage is an influx of players that have already proved themselves in the English top flight – and that will give the west London outfit the best chance of remaining afloat at the top level for the long term.

They are at real risk of solidifying their current status as a yo-yo club unless they manage to make real progress in the top tier during the 2022/23 campaign – and it's unclear whether Plata would make the impact needed.

The Cottagers do need to look at the bigger picture and this is why a move for the 21-year-old may not be a terrible move – but they need finished packages and players in their prime if they are to have any chance of staying in the top flight.

With many other positions to address too and Solomon looking as though he will be arriving in the English capital, forking out a sizeable fee for the Ecuadorian seems like a waste of money.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/update-emerges-on-fulhams-potential-transfer-pursuit-of-e10m-rated-winger/

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Fulham goalkeeper Luca Ashby-Hammond returns from Stockport County loan

Fulham goalkeeper Luca Ashby-Hammond has returned to the club from his loan at Stockport County, as announced by the National League champions.

Fulham gave the youngster the green light to make the temporary move up north back in February.

Ashby-Hammond, 21, has helped the Hatters win promotion back to the Football League following an 11-year absence.

He was used as back-up by the North West club behind Ben Hincliffe but played a couple of cup matches for Dave Challinor's side.

What next for Ashby-Hammond at Fulham?

Fulham have a decision to make on what to do next with Ashby-Hammond following their Championship title win.

His chances of breaking into their first-team in the Premier League are extremely slim so another loan move away for next season wouldn't be a bad move.

The England youth international will have picked up some useful experience during his time at Edgeley Park but needs to be a first choice 'keeper somewhere else in the next campaign to further boost his development.

Ashby-Hammond has been on the books at Fulham for his whole career to date, albeit with a brief spell away at Liverpool a couple of years ago before he returned to Craven Cottage.

He has risen up through the academy of the London coutfit and has been a regular for them at various youth levels. However, he is still waiting on his senior debut.

The stopper is under contract with Marco Silva's side until the summer of 2025.



https://the72.co.uk/273614/fulham-goalkeeper-luca-ashby-hammond-returns-from-stockport-county-loan/

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Fulham, Bournemouth dealt blow as Dean Henderson closes in on Newcastle United loan move

Fulham and Bournemouth look to have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Manchester United's Dean Henderson, with Newcastle United set to secure a loan deal.

Fulham and Bournemouth have both been linked with the 25-year-old goalkeeper ahead of the summer transfer window.

Both the Cottagers and the Cherries are preparing for life back in the top flight and had identified Manchester United man Henderson as a potential recruit. But now, a report from the Manchester Evening News has dealt both sides a blow.

It is claimed that Henderson is set to link up with North East giants Newcastle United instead.

The Manchester United shot-stopper was said to be in Newcastle on Wednesday to hold talks over a season-long loan deal, though a permanent transfer isn't out of the question either.

An early blow for Fulham and Bournemouth...

It's safe to say that a player of Henderson's pedigree would have been a great signing for either Fulham or Bournemouth are they prepare for life back in the Premier League.

The 'keeper starred with Sheffield United in their promotion season and impressed in their first campaign in the top tier too. His performances earned him a first-team role back with Manchester United but after falling behind David De Gea in the pecking order again, a summer exit makes sense.

However, given how early it is in the summer, both Fulham and Bournemouth will have plenty of time to identify alternative options as Henderson heads for Newcastle United.

The promoted pair will be determined to strengthen where possible this summer as they bid to cement their places back in the Premier League once again.



https://the72.co.uk/273629/fulham-bournemouth-dealt-blow-as-dean-henderson-closes-in-on-newcastle-united-loan-move/

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Report: Swansea to rival Nottingham Forest for freebie but there is a stumbling block

Nottingham Forest were linked with a move for Cyrus Christie at the weekend but they face competition from Swansea City.

The former Reds full-back was mentioned in an article by Sky Sports as possible suitors for Christie's signature.

During the 2020/21 campaign, the 28-year-old made 44 appearances for Forest, claiming five assists across the season.

Russell Martin took him to Wales for the second half of the season that's just finished and he made 23 appearances for the club.

Interestingly, he played as a wing-back, scoring three goals and helping himself to five assists from just half a campaign at Swansea.

Now, Martin has confirmed that he'd dearly like to bring him back to the Liberty Stadium. There is, however a problem for the Swans.

He told BBC Wales: "We are probably a little bit apart in terms of where he has been financially and where we are at.

"I think the conversation will keep going on and it might change again. But we do have other options apart from Cyrus as well."

Christie has 28 caps for the Republic of Ireland and he does boast lots of experience when it comes to Championship football.

He has played for Coventry, Derby, Middlesbrough, Fulham and Forest during his career and that should make him a wanted man.

Forest linked with Cyrus Christie but he could soon be off the radar

The Reds fans warmed to Christie as the 2020/21 campaign progressed. His performances grew and with regular football he did begin to thrive.

Is Christie really a Premier League player though?

The answer is probably no. He does have 28 top-flight appearances to his name but the fact he's played most of his football in the Championship is telling.

If Forest beat Huddersfield later this month they will become a Premier League club for the first time in 23 years.

As a result, they will likely go in search of a far better right-back than Christie and they might even sign a current loanee.

Djed Spence has been excellent in the Garibaldi. He has been linked with several top clubs but promotion to the Premier League could see Forest pounce for the 21-year-old.

Should Forest fail in their promotion quest, there could be a conversation to be had about Christie.



https://www.nottinghamforest.news/2022/05/19/nottingham-forest-face-swansea-competition-for-linked-star-cyrus-christie/

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How will Harry Wilson help keep Fulham up?
Sean Guest ponders how Wilson's stellar season will translate to the top flight as the Whites rely on the Welshman to help secure survival.

While Aleksandar Mitrović's 43-goal campaign is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown of Fulham's Championship-winning season, it's important not to overlook the contribution of Harry Wilson.

The Welshman joined Mitro, Tosin Adarabioyo and Antonee Robinson in the Championship team of the season at the EFL Awards recently thanks in no small part to his 10 goals and 19 assists this term. And rightly so. The 25-year-old had a stellar season; one that we'd all probably be talking about a lot more if it weren't for Mitrović's otherworldly effort.

Like Mitro, Wilson will be crucial to Fulham's survival bid in the Premier League next season. So let's take a look at what made him so effective this season and how that might translate to the top flight.

A proven scorer
When Fulham signed Wilson from Liverpool back in the summer they undoubtedly had one eye on the future. At just 24, the winger had plenty of Championship experience, but he had, of course, also played in the Premier League, scoring seven goals in 31 appearances for Bournemouth in 2019/20.

Bournemouth were relegated that season, but Wilson was one of their key players. Despite making just 20 starts, he led the team in goals per 90 minutes (0.38) and finished third – behind Callum Wilson (10) and Josh King (6.6) – in xG (with 4.5). What's more, he was the only one of the three to actually outperform his xG, finishing with a goals minus expected goals of +2.5.

Even though he made considerably fewer starts than the bulk of his teammates, Wilson also led Bournemouth in shots taken (64), had the second most shots on target (22) and the fourth highest average distance, in yards, from goal of all shots taken (19.8) amongst players who made 10 starts or more. His willingness to shoot and ability to do so from distance, coupled with the threat he poses from set pieces, will be huge for Fulham next season, particularly given their struggles to hit the target in 2020/21, when they logged the Prem's second worst shots on target percentage (28%).

An excellent relationship
Finding players who can score for us next season will be one of the keys to survival. During our last stint in the top flight we found the net just 27 times. Wilson should be able to chip in with his share of goals, but his ability to create opportunities for others will be just as valuable. In particular to Mitrović, who was the benefactor of 10 of Wilson's 19 assists this season.

This link up was especially effective when Wilson was given time and space in wide areas to pick out the Serbian, as he did against Bristol City. Here, with the opposition pegged back, Harrison Reed plays the ball out to him and Wilson takes a touch, teeing the ball up on his left foot, before delivering a perfectly measured back post cross for Mitro to head home.

Although Wilson won't get as much time to pick out his target in the Prem, he doesn't particularly need it. Here, against Bournemouth, he's able to deliver an almost identical ball for Mitro from a much wider position while being closely monitored by the home team's back line, producing the same result. As we all know that sweet left foot of his is also pretty useful in dead ball situations too, as this inch-perfect inswinger against Middlesborough, met by a brilliantly-timed run and bullet header from Mitro, proved.

Wilson may have led all Fulham players in crosses made this season (164), logging a crossing accuracy percentage of 23.46, but he and Mitrović linked up in plenty of other ways too, as exemplified by this smash and grab, conducted under the noses of four West Brom defender, and this deft exchange to set up Fabio Carvalho in the 7-0 drubbing of Luton. As Peter Rutzler pointed out in his recent Athletic article on the talismanic Serbian, "He has forged an excellent relationship with Harry Wilson on the Fulham right. Between them, they have managed 13 goal combinations (where both are either assist provider or goalscorer)". And if Mitro is to prove his Premier League detractors wrong next season, his 'excellent relationship' with Wilson could be the key.

Pass master
One other important, yet often overlooked, element of Wilson's game is his passing. As this Squawka comparison of Fulham's four most frequently used attacking options (Mitro, Wilson, Carvalho and Neeskens Kebano) shows, the Welshman attempted considerably more passes overall (1,452 – 240 more than second-placed Mitro), while logging more passes completed in the opponent's half (886 – 277 more than second-placed Carvalho) than any of the other three.

Although he spends most of his time hugging the right touchline, as shown by his SofaScore heatmap, this ability comes to the fore when Wilson moves into more central areas. Here, against Luton, he drifts in off the flank as Tom Cairney drives Fulham up the middle. As he receives the ball, Wilson darts almost diagonally across the box before guiding an intelligent pass into the path of the oncoming Cairney, who duly curls it home. Similarly, against Nottingham Forest, he receives the ball off Kebano's driving run up the middle and moves inside before playing a superbly-weighted through ball into the path of his fellow winger, who drills it into the bottom corner.

Wilson attempted more through balls than any of Fulham's most frequently used attacking players (11), while also making 330 forward passes over the course of the season. What's more, he averaged 2.6 key passes per game while creating 18 big chances during his 41 appearances.

His positivity in the final third, along with his ability to find a way through an opponent's backline, will be crucial to Fulham's survival hopes and perhaps make him Fulham's most well-rounded attacking threat, as evidenced by his 29 total goal contributions this season.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2022-05-19-how-will-harry-wilson-help-keep-fulham-up/

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Fulham star Andre Zambo Anguissa will leave the Cottagers after agreeing to join Napoli for cut-rate price

Andre Zambo Anguissa will leave Fulham in the upcoming transfer window after the Cottagers agreed to a cut-rate deal with Napoli.

Anguissa has been a part of Fulham's squad since 2018 when the defensive-midfielder joined from Marseille. During Fulham's previous Premier League campaigns, he had been a shining light within the squad.

He has appeared in the Cottagers' last two top flight seasons. It does, however, seem like they will be without him for their upcoming 2022/23 season.

Anguissa has performed well while on loan at Napoli so far this season. He has managed to rack up 32 appearances in all competitions, with five coming in the Europa League.

The midfielder has also managed to chip in with two assists so far. He has only missed out when unavailable due to injury or international commitments.

As such, Napoli have decided to go through with their option to buy after the end of his loan spell. The fee is reported to be around £12 million.

This is, according to Football Italia, who also say that Napoli boss, Luciano Spalletti had been pushing to exercise their buy option in the deal.

The news, however, has not came as much of a surprise. Last Tuesday, trusted journalist Fabrizio Romano had confirmed Anguissa's move with a tweet.

"Napoli have triggered the buy option for Zambo Anguissa from Fulham, president De Laurentiis has just confirmed. Fee will be around €15m," he said on his Twitter account.

How will Fulham replace Andre Zambo Anguissa?

Fulham have yet again achieved promotion from the Championship after a dominant season. The Cottagers ended up winning the title and garnered an impressive 90 points over the course of the campaign.

Marco Silva's side will evidently be looking to strengthen in the market and have been linked with a plethora of talent thus far.

Fulham have reportedly been linked with Watford star Moussa Sissoko in recent weeks.

The midfielder has played in the top flight of England since the 2012/13 season. Throughout the course of his Premier League career, he has been among the best in the centre of the park.

The transfer would be a viable option for both parties as Sissoko will likely want to remain in a top five league following Watford's relegation. Fulham will also need to add high quality players in order to break their yo-yo trend.

The 32-year old has managed to contribute to three goals so far this season and has consistently performed to a high standard.

Sissoko could be the perfect addition to Marco Silva's team as he would provide some much needed Premier League experience, though he may not want to be in another relegation scrap.



https://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/andre-zambo-anguissa-transfer-news-star-leave-cottagers-agreeing-napoli-cut-rate-price

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West Ham and Fulham eye shock deal for MLS ace with 'very bright future'

West Ham United want Mexico goalkeeper David Ochoa this summer but face competition from Atletico Madrid and Premier League newcomers Fulham and Bournemouth, according to Fox Sports.

Neither Pablo Barrero nor Guillermo Franco really set the world alight at Upton Park but the Hammers will not let past failures get them down as they look to make Ochoa the 11th Mexican footballer to step foot on the Premier League stage.

According to reports from across the Atlantic, a number of clubs based in Europe have made contact with Ochoa's agent. The goalkeeper's deal at MLS outfit Real Salt Lake expires in December, meaning the California-born Mexico U21 international can be snapped up on a pre-contract agreement this summer.

La Liga champions Atletico Madrid are interested. As are Fulham, Bournemouth and a West Ham side who have been linked with a number of talented shot-stoppers – including Sam Johnstone, Nick Pope and Gaetan Coucke – amid doubts over the futures of both Lukasz Fabianski and PSG loanee Alphonse Areola.

Bournemouth, Fuoham and West Ham want David Ochoa

Ochoa, one of the rising stars of American football, was recently rewarded for an excellent campaign at Real Salt Lake with his first ever call-up to the senior Mexican national team by former Argentina and Barcelona boss Gerardo 'Tata' Martino.

A confident and fiery character not afraid to give out as much as he receives, Ochoa's stand-out attributes are his impressive game-management and 'cat-like reflexes'.

"He's, like, 18, but he has the maturity," Real Salt Lake hero Luke Mulholland told The Athletic in 2020. 

"I know he probably annoys fans when he likes to keep the ball in the corner of the box and then goes down and picks it up or whatever, but I think he already has the awareness of when to slow the game down and when to speed it up.

"He has top, cat-like reflexes at times. He's got a very bright future as long as he stays grounded."

Ochoa still has a lot to learn, particularly regarding his distribution and his positional sense. But the foundations are there for a potentially high-class glovesman.

"Ochoa is very much still just a shot-stopper," adds goalkeeping expert Matt Pyzdrowski said. "He's quick and very athletic, with a good size, range and long reach. 

"Though other areas of his skill set need to continue to develop, most notably his distribution."



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2022/05/19/west-ham-and-fulham-eye-shock-deal-for-mls-ace-with-very-bright-future/

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'Coming next': Anthony Knockaert makes exciting prediction about Nottingham Forest star

Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba was in fine form on Tuesday saving three penalties as the Reds beat Sheffield United in their play-off semi-final. After the game, former Forest loanee Anthony Knockaert heaped praise on the Congolese custodian.

The Frenchman proved a pretty underwhelming signing for Forest last season. He signed on loan at the City Ground to become Chris Hughton's first signing when he took over as manager.

Knockaert scored just three goals for Forest. He was largely underwhelming and returned to Fulham in the summer, with the Reds not particularly keen on securing a permanent deal.

Still, it would seem as though the winger still keeps tabs on what's happening on Trentside. He was a keen spectator from home on Tuesday night as Samba stole the show with his trio of penalty saves during the shootout.

Knockaert's future is unclear at the moment. He barely played for the Cottagers during 2021/22 as they won the Championship and he's unlikely to be needed in the Premier League next season.

Samba will hope to help Forest join Fulham in next season's top flight. Forest play Huddersfield later this month and a win would end 23 years of hurt for those in the Garibaldi.

Knockaert sends message to Forest star Samba

Forest fans were hardly up in arms about Knockaert. His performances with the Reds arguably suggested that his best days are firmly behind him now.

He arrived at the club on a big wage and frankly, he never lived up to it. It's also not really a surprise to see him struggle for game time this season.

Knockaert has heaped praise on Forest star Samba, however. He's also predicted that he will make the step up to the Premier League next season.

If Forest can win promotion in just under two weeks' time, the club will be largely indebted to Samba following his heroics of the other night.



https://www.nottinghamforest.news/2022/05/19/anthony-knockaert-praises-nottingham-forest-star-brice-samba/

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Jacksonville Jaguars and Gallagher announce multi-year partnership

JACKSONVILLE - The Jacksonville Jaguars and Gallagher, one of the world's largest insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting firms, today confirmed its multi-year partnership in both Jacksonville and London. Gallagher now becomes the official insurance brokerage partner and risk management partner of the team and other entities owned by Jaguars Owner Shad Khan, including Flex-N-Gate, All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Fulham FC and Bold Events. Additionally, Gallagher will become a Jaguar Jamboree Corporate Partner.

"It's an honor to have Gallagher as a member of the Jaguars family of partners," said Scott Massey, senior vice president of corporate partnerships for the Jaguars. "Gallagher's longstanding dedication to its clients and community are reflective of our own deep commitment to providing memorable game day experiences to Jaguars fans."

As the naming rights sponsor of the premium club spaces at TIAA Bank Field, Gallagher Club features two uniquely designed spaces located on the east and west sides of the stadium. The distinctive entertainment experience features a host of seating options including club tables and bar rails with the best sight lines of the field.

The partnership also has a strong community focus in Jacksonville and London. In Jacksonville, Gallagher and the Jaguars Foundation will team up on the Outeast project, including a Literacy Takeover at an eastside neighborhood elementary school, summer jobs and internships for high school students and an Outeast Community Engagement Volunteer Day. In London, Gallagher will support Jaguars grassroots programming that focuses on the growth of American football in the UK.

"We are excited to partner with the Jaguars and its family of partners and to have the opportunity to build relationships throughout the Jacksonville and London communities," said Christopher Mead, Gallagher's Chief Marketing Officer. "Gallagher looks for partners that share our strong values and ethics in the communities where we live and work, and we are proud to continue that tradition."

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ABOUT JAGUARS
The Jacksonville Jaguars are a professional football team, one of 32 member clubs of the National Football League (NFL), aligned in the South Division of the American Football Conference (AFC). Founded on Nov. 30, 1993, the team began play as an expansion team in 1995 and will compete in its 28th season in 2022. The team is owned by Shahid Khan, who purchased the franchise in January 2012. The club plays its home games at TIAA Bank Field, located near the St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville, Fla. Since their inaugural season in 1995, the Jaguars have won three division titles and made seven playoff appearances, playing in 14 postseason games.

ABOUT GALLAGHER
Gallagher is one of the world's largest insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting firms. As a community insurance broker and trusted local consultant, we help people and businesses move forward with confidence. With more than 39,000 people working around the globe, we're connected to the places where we do business and to every community we call home. Managing risk with customized solutions and a full spectrum of services, helping you foster a thriving workforce, and always holding ourselves to the highest standards of ethics to help you face every challenge—that's The Gallagher Way



https://www.jaguars.com/news/jacksonville-jaguars-gallagher-announce-multi-year-partnership