Sunday Fulham Stuff - 01/01/23...

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Results

Saturday
Wolves	0-1	Man Utd
Bournemouth	0-2	Palace
Fulham	2-1	Southampton
Man City	1-1	Everton
Newcastle	0-0	Leeds
Brighton	2-4	Arsenal

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Fulham 2-1 Southampton

Palhinha's winner is his third Fulham goal since arriving from Sporting Lisbon in the summer

Southampton remained rooted to the foot of the table after a late winner by Fulham's Joao Palhinha condemned the visitors to a fifth straight Premier League defeat.

James Ward-Prowse's superb second-half free-kick, which cancelled out his earlier own-goal, seemed set to secure his side a much-needed point.

But a clever flick-on from Kenny Tete set up Palhinha's 88th-minute header.

Aleksandar Mitrovic missed an injury-time penalty and the chance to add gloss to the scoreline.

Fulham are up to seventh on the back of their fourth win in seven games.

Craven Cottage legend Cohen honoured
The hosts paid tribute to one of their own before kick-off.

Manager Marco Silva, one of his mostly fondly-remembered predecessors Roy Hodgson and George Cohen's son Anthony laid wreathes around the centre circle in memory of the 1966 World Cup winner, who died at the age of 83 on 23 December.

Cohen was born in Fulham and swept the Craven Cottage stands as part of the ground staff before embarking on a 459-game one-club career with the Whites. A minute's applause ended with the home fans chanting the former full-back's name.


Fulham's players wore tracksuits in honour of George Cohen before kick-off

Once under way, Southampton had the clearest early chance when Che Adams darted behind the hosts' high line, but goalkeeper Bernd Leno did well to repel his effort.

Mohamed Elyounoussi skimmed a shot narrowly over the crossbar, but Fulham gradually asserted themselves in midfield, with Palhinha to the fore, and were rewarded on 32 minutes.

Willian clipped a corner to the edge of the penalty area, which Andreas Pereira met with his instep. The volley was well-struck but seemed to be heading off target until Ward-Prowse's instinctive attempt to block instead ensured it ended up in the back of the net.

Pereira stabbed a shot wide after the break as Fulham started the second half brightly.

But Ward-Prowse, who is second only to David Beckham in Premier League free-kick goals, gives Saints a threat that few other sides can offer at set-pieces.

The 28-year-old captain whipped a superb swirling free-kick around the wall and beyond Leno's dive to cancel out his own-goal and level the contest.

It seemed the scores would remain equal before the contest sprung back into life in the final few minutes.

Tom Cairney and Willian almost combined to set up Pereira at one end before Southampton substitute Romain Perraud threatened at the other.

The hosts went ahead again when another well-worked set-piece isolated Palhinha, who stands 6ft 3in tall, against a clutch of smaller defenders.

Mitrovic, who has 10 goals in his previous 13 Premier League games, had a chance to add to his prolific season after a foul on Dan James. But his penalty, well saved by Gavin Bazunu, ended an uncharacteristically quiet afternoon for the Serbian striker.

Saints 'have to be better'
Southampton's next game is against Nottingham Forest, one place above them in the table, at home on Wednesday.

Manager Nathan Jones, who took over from sacked Ralph Hasenhuttl in November, said his players need to be sharper tactically and mentally to avoid their efforts being undermined by more bad defending.

"We didn't do the basics well on two occasions and that is what let us down," he said. "They have to be ironed out on the training ground and in peoples' heads.

"The overall performance was good today - we negated a fluent team - but we have to be better in those moments. We are gifting teams goals, they don't have to do much to score, and that has to change."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/64083700

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Marco's Post-Southampton press conference

Marco Silva spoke to the press following Fulham's 2-1 victory over Southampton on New Year's Eve.

"A big, big result for us, definitely," said Marco. "A big three points for us.

"A tough match and to be honest with you, we expected a tough match, even if their position in the table is not the best. We know they have good players and that they can punish you in some moments, in counter-attacks and set-pieces, like they did."

Marco touched on what has been an impressive season for Fulham on the pitch and hopes the fans enjoyed 2022.

"We finish on a high and it's been an amazing 2022 for us," Marco described. "As a club, it's been really special, finishing a year that has been really special for us.

"First of all for our fans, they enjoy watching who we played last season and keep the same this season. 

"Different challenge, different targets, we keep the same all together. It was a great atmosphere in our stadium and was important for us."

Speaking on the second-half, Marco was quick to praise Tom Cairney before João Palhinha's 87th minute winner.

"Tom Cairney made a big impact in our game when he came on," said Marco. "He tried until the last minute to win the game."

"It's our moment now to have a great goal to decide the game as unfortunately for us, in both Manchester games we lost in the last minute but today it was for us.

"I think we deserved the three points, even if we didn't perform at our best level."

With a very strong position in the table, that sees us closer to the top four than the relegation zone, Marco was asked about the possibility of adjusting expectations for the season.

"We have to be realistic and I am realistic in this type of situation," said Marco, rebuking the remark. "We are a really ambitious club, we know our reality and the type of competition we are playing against and the teams we are playing against.

"Today we played Southampton, we know their position in the table and it was tough for us, with the quality that they have. 

"We are not in the position to change one word of our target and our goals this season. 

"We have to keep our feet on the ground to prepare the next one the best we can."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/december/31/Marcos-Post-Southampton-press conference/

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Fulham 2-1 Southampton: Joao Palhinha's late winner condemns Saints to a fifth consecutive Premier League defeat, leaving them rock-bottom heading into 2023

    Andreas Pereira's deflected strike off James Ward-Prowse gave Fulham the lead 
    Ward-Prowse made amends for own goal to score at the right end for Saints
    Joao Palhinha scored an 88th minute winner to give Fulham all three points
    Aleksandr Mitrovic could have made it 3-1 but saw an injury-time penalty saved

Southampton's miserable 2022 ended with defeat at Fulham to leave them rock-bottom of the Premier League table at the turn of the year.

After James Ward-Prowse had scored at both ends, Joao Palhinha delivered a knockout blow with an 88th-minute header to give Fulham all three points. Aleksandar Mitrovic could have made it 3-1 but saw an injury-time penalty saved by Gavin Bazunu.

When you are at the bottom of the table, luck is rarely on your side. But you also have to make your own luck. Southampton had chances to win this game and should have been ahead at half-time rather than behind. Fulham were not at their best and this game was there for the taking. Nathan Jones knew it, too.


Joao Palhinha scored an 88th minute winner for Fulham to crush Southampton who stay bottom of the table


Aleksandr Mitrovic could have made it 3-1 but saw an injury-time penalty saved by Saints goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu

'You have to take your chances when you get them because it's a tough league,' said the Southampton manager. 'The group's a good group, it needs a little bit more know-how, it needs to learn quickly because at the minute there's certain naivety to our defending that's costing us games.

It is now three defeats from his first three league games as Saints manager, following in the footsteps of Dave Jones, Stuart Gray, Nigel Adkins and Mark Hughes, who also suffered that fate.


Fulham's impressive year continued with the players going wild after Palhinha scored late on 

The positive is that the only other season Southampton were bottom of the top-flight table at the turn of the year was in 1991-1992, when they went on to finish 16th and avoid relegation. It will take some effort to match that achievement in 2023.

For Fulham, it has been 12 months to remember for all the right reasons. A Championship title and an impressive start to a Premier League season that few people expected. Marco Silva's side continue to prove people wrong, their 84 goals in 40 league games in 2022 is the highest number they have netted in a calendar year since managing 85 in 2000.

'We finish on a high, an amazing 2022 for us as a club,' said Silva. 'It's been really special finishing a year that has been special first of all for our fans, for sure they enjoy watching Fulham playing last season and this season as well.

'I believe we deserve the three points, but it wasn't our best performance. From the first minute to the last we were the only team that wanted to win.'

Before kick-off, Fulham paid tribute to their former player and 1966 World Cup winner George Cohen, who passed away on December 23. Cohen spent his entire professional career with the Cottagers and made 459 appearances.

This was a battling performance to make him proud, but it was Southampton who should have been ahead in the first half. Che Adams beat the offside trap to find himself one on one with Bernd Leno but his hesitation was characteristic of the lack of confidence throughout this Southampton side and his effort was easily pushed away.

The Saints were on top but failed to make their pressure count and were made to pay when a slice of fortune handed Fulham the opener.Willian's corner picked out an un-marked Andreas Pereira on the edge of the box. His shot was heading wide but the outstretched leg of Ward-Prowse diverted the ball past Bazunu.


Fulham players celebrate with Pereira after his deflected shot off Ward-Prowse gave Fulham the lead in the first-half

The Southampton captain redeemed himself 11 minutes after the break when Bobby De Cordova-Reid gave away a cheap free-kick on the edge of the box.

Fulham were awarded an injury-time penalty after Bazunu clattered into Dan James, but Mitrovic saw a poor effort saved.




https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11588365/Fulham-2-1-Southampton-Joao-Palhinhas-88th-minute-header-sinks-Southampton.html

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Fulham edge home at the last against Saints on day of grateful remembrance for George Cohen

Fulham (1} 2 Pereira 33, Palhinha 88

Southampton (0) 1 Ward-Prowse 56

Joao Palhinha's late header gave Fulham a win on their return to league action at the Cottage after the World Cup on a day when the club honoured the passing of one of its favourite sons.

After the latest FIFA jamboree, it seemed somehow even more poignant for fans before kick-off to be taking a minute's applause for two former World Cup greats.

This was the week when the incomparable Pele joined one of Fulham's own, George Cohen, in the great cosmos of departed footballing legends.

Cohen of course never professed to be the global superstar that the Brazilian was, but in these parts of west London, few names could evoke as much pride as the 66 World Cup winner, who remained Fulham through and through, even in retirement.

He would have enjoyed this win. Fulham were not at their best but found a way to sneak home. They might even have won it more comfortably, but Aleksandar Mitrovic had an injury-time penalty saved

Fulham have taken up where they left off before the international break in terms of confidence and optimism – slender last-minute losses to Man City and Man United in early November not denting the sense that this top-flight season is going the right way for once.

They crushed Crystal Palace 3-0 on Boxing Day and were fully expecting to build on that win against bottom of the table Southampton – now under new management but arriving on a run of four league defeats in a row.

The Saints might have gone in front when Che Adams sprang the offside the race goalwards unopposed – Tim Ream in the centre playing him onside. But the onrushing Bernd Leno was equal to the challenge, deflecting the ball off target.

The Whites looked the stronger of the two before the break, though, even if Mitrovic is still trying to shrug off a nagging foot injury which he carried to Qatar.

William smashed a half-volley into the side-netting after a cleaver one-two with Andreas Pereira and the goal that had started to look inevitable came from a Willian corner in a training ground routine.

Antonee Robinson's marauding overlap won the set piece and from the flag kick, an unmarked Pereira had all the time in the world to hit a volley which looped into the roof of the net off the boot of Saints skipper James Ward-Prowse and over keeper Gavin Bazunu.

But if there is one unquestionable trump card new boss Nathan Jones does have at his disposal, it is the reliability of Ward-Prowse from free-kicks and just before the hour, the Saints skipper had levelled the game with a glorious bent shot around the wall from 25 yards out. Leno had little chance.

That threatened to alter the narrative of the match as the belief in the visitors' ranks grew. The lively Samuel Edozie almost put away a pass from Ward-Prowse.

But two minutes from time, there was Palhinha to nod home from close range – Kenny Tete having headed on a Pereira corner swung in to the near post.

Sub Dan James was bundled over by Lyanco at the death but Bazanu dived to his left to keep out Mitrovic's spot-kick. Luckily for Fulham, it did not matter.

Whites: (4-2-3-1) Leno - Tete, Diop, Ream, Robinson - Reed (Cairney 62), Palhinha - Decordova-Reid (James 62), Pereira (Tosin 90), Willian - Mitrovic. Subs not used: Rodak, Duffy, Wilson, Chalobah, Vinicius, Harris

Saints: (3-4-2-1) Bazunu - Lyanco, Bella-Kotchap, Salisu (Lavia 90) - Maitland-Niles (A Armstrong 90), Ward-Prowse, Elyounsoussi (Mara 90), Walker-Peters - Aribo (S Armstrong 67), Edozie (Perraud 77) - Adams. Subs not used: Caleta-Car, Caballero, Diallo, Finnigan

Attendance: 24,344

   

https://www.capitalfootball.co.uk/single-post/fulham-v-southampton

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Fulham 2-1 Southampton

João Palhinha's dramatic late header meant Fulham ended 2022 with another massive three points.

Andreas Pereira's first half volley eventually went down as an own-goal for James Ward-Prowse, who then made up for it with a free-kick in the second half to level it up. Aleksandar Mitrović missed a chance to grab a goal from the spot at the death, but in the end that didn't matter as Fulham were victorios. 

An impressive Boxing Day display against Crystal Palace meant Marco Silva saw no need to change anything up in his XI, and everyone kept their place hoping for the same result as before.

Prior to kick-off there was a poignant display of respect and remembrance for George Cohen MBE and Pele, as wreaths were laid by Fulham legends past and present and a minute's applause was held around Craven Cottage.

It took until 11 minutes for the first chance of note in the game, and it came from a familiar Brazilian pairing. Some neat interchange between Pereira and his good friend Willian ended with the latter flashing a half-volley at goal from the edge of the box, cannoning off the outer top-corner of the net.

Several minutes later and the Saints had an even bigger chance to take the lead themselves. Che Adams beat the offside trap to race through on goal with plenty of time to think about his next move. The Scotsman decided to take on Bernd Leno with the shot from close, but our German 'keeper was more than a match for him and made a brilliant reflect save. From the resulting corner Adams had another opportunity from close range, but a combination of Leno and then Palhinha saw off the threat.

It was a scrappy contest with a lack of clear-cut chances up until the half-hour mark. Samuel Edozie did well to work his way through the Fulham defence before unleashing an effort from the edge of the box, but it was straight forward for Leno in the end.

Antonee Robinson was next to cause danger with his electric pace in full effect as he raced down the left and got a cross into the corridor of uncertainty, which Armel Bella-Kotchap just about managed to put behind.

The resulting corner bared fruit for Fulham who managed to get ahead. The link-up was there again as Willian floated his cross deep to Pereira, who rifled one towards goal on the volley, with a deflection off James Ward-Prowse seeing it loop into the Southampton net.

After a labored start to the second half, Fulham mustered the first chance of it five minutes in. Willian's cross wasn't quite on target and Bobby De Cordova-Reid did well to collect and recycle it back towards Andreas, who poked a shot narrowly wide of the near post.

Next was a Southampton equaliser on 55 minutes, as James Ward-Prowse made up for his unfortunate own goal with a trademark free-kick to get things back on level terms.

In an edgy contest not much was clicking for either team, until on 72 minutes substitute Tom Cairney carved a chance out of nothing. Pinching the ball back on the halfway line, our skipper drove towards the Saints' defence before knocking it wide for the overlapping Robinson. He floated a cross in towards the back post where Mitrović came crashing in but couldn't get to it. Eventually the ball bounced to Kenny Tete who could only put his effort over after being pushed off balance by a defender.

TC was involved again in Fulham's next good spell of play. This time, a neat one-two with Willian got him behind enemy lines down the left, however his cross didn't meet its' intended target and Lyanco headed clear.

Just when it looked like the points would be shared, up popped some late magic, in the 89th minute. From a corner, Tete flicked a looping header towards the back post, where Palhinha was waiting. Our Portuguese warrior peeled off his marker, Stuart Armstrong, brilliantly and nodded it in from a couple of yards out to make it 2-1.

With only a few minutes of added time to go, Fulham had a chance to make some breathing room with a penalty. After a calamitous mix-up between Lyanco and goalkeeper, Gavin Bazunu, the latter punched out at Dan James, who was being a menace to the pair. Mitrović stepped up to take, but saw his attempt saved.

In the end that didn't matter, and Fulham finished the year with another vital three points.

Fulham FC: Leno, Antonee Robinson, Diop, Ream, Tete, Willian, De Cordova-Reid (James 62'), Reed (Cairney 62'), João Palhinha, Andreas Pereira (Tosin 98'), Mitrović

Subs: James, Duffy, Cairney, Carlos Vinícius, Harris, Chalobah, Tosin, Wilson, Rodák

Southampton: Bazunu, Lyanco, Salisu (Lavia 90'), Bella-Kotchap, Elyounoussi (Mara 90'), Ward-Prowse, Maitland-Niles (Adam Armstrong 90'), Walker-Peters, Aribo (Armstrong 67'), Adams, Edozie (Perraud 77')

Subs: Diallo, Perraud, Finnigan, Caballero, Mara, Armstrong, Lavia, Adam Armstrong, Caleta-Car



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/december/31/fulham-2-1-southampton/

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Joao Palhinha earns Fulham late win over rock bottom Southampton
Southampton's James Ward-Prowse had earlier scored at both ends.

Southampton will begin 2023 at the foot of the Premier League after a last-gasp Joao Palhinha goal condemned them to a 2-1 defeat at Fulham.

James Ward-Prowse thought he had secured a first point under new Saints boss Nathan Jones after scoring a free-kick to cancel out his own own-goal.

But Palhinha struck two minutes from time with a far-post header to leave Southampton rock bottom.

Fulham, meanwhile, will end the year as top dogs in west London after climbing above Chelsea and Brentford, despite top-scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic missing a stoppage-time penalty.

Fittingly it was their first home match since the death of their 1966 World Cup-winning full-back George Cohen, and a moving tribute was paid, with former boss Roy Hodgson and Cohen's son Anthony laying wreaths.

Pele was also remembered before kick-off, and Saints striker Che Adams immediately tried to emulate the Brazil great with a shot from near the halfway line as Cottagers goalkeeper Bernd Leno was out of his goal.

He succeeded too as, just like Pele's famous effort against Czechoslovakia, the ball drifted wide.

Fulham's Brazilian, Willian, was then teed up by Andreas Pereira and fizzed a first-time shot into the side-netting.

Adams threatened closer to the Fulham goal when he got in behind, but he was quickly closed down by Leno who made a fine save.

Fulham were exerting more pressure, though, and took the lead in the 33rd minute.



https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/joao-palhinha-earns-fulham-late-win-over-rock-bottom-southampton-42254915.html

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Palhinha nets late as Fulham beats Southampton 2-1 in EPL

LONDON (AP) — Joao Palhinha's late goal gave Fulham a 2-1 win over Southampton on Saturday, leaving the visitors stranded at the bottom of the Premier League.

James Ward-Prowse thought he had secured a first point under new Southampton manager Nathan Jones after making up for an own-goal in the first half by equalizing from a free kick in the 56th minute.

But Palhinha struck a minute from time with a far-post header to leave Southampton in last place, despite Fulham's top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic then missing a stoppage-time penalty.

The win meant Fulham climbed above west London rivals Chelsea and Brentford into seventh place.

It was Fulham's first home match since the death of 1966 World Cup-winning fullback George Cohen, and a tribute was paid before the game with former manager Roy Hodgson and Cohen's son Anthony laying down wreaths.

Pele was also remembered before kickoff, and Saints striker Che Adams immediately tried to emulate the Brazil great with a shot from near the halfway line as Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno was out of his goal. Just like Pele's famous effort against Czechoslovakia, the ball drifted wide.

Fulham's Brazilian, Willian, was then teed up by Andreas Pereira and fizzed a first-time shot into the side-netting.



https://apnews.com/article/sports-soccer-fifa-world-cup-fulham-fc-southampton-4d8b10efae527e2fa6dd4e8429ee0bbf

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Fulham in talks to sign Rick Karsdorp

Fulham are reportedly in talks to sign out-of-favour Dutch defender Rick Karsdorp from AS Roma in January.

According to a report by Il Tempo, as relayed by Sport Witness, Fulham are currently negotiating with Roma chief Tiago Pinto and it will be interesting to see if they can agree on a deal for the Dutchman. The Londoners could certainly use defensive reinforcements in January and the 27-year-old Dutch defender could prove to be a useful addition.

Fulham are thought to be on the lookout for a quality right back and they have been linked with the Arsenal defender Cedric Soares as well.

However, the Gunners are involved in a title race and they are not willing to weaken their squad midway through the campaign.

Meanwhile, Rick Karsdorp has fallen out with Jose Mourinho at the Italian club and Roma are prepared to cash in on him. Apparently, the player is valued at €5-6 million and Fulham certainly have the finances to pay the reported asking price.

The defender recently launched a scathing attack on Mourinho and it seems that the relationship between the player and the manager is beyond repair.

Fulham have done quite well in the Premier League this season following their promotion and they will be hoping to finish in the top half. Bringing in quality additions during the January transfer window will only help them improve further.

The Londoners are currently 10th in the league table with 22 points from 16 league matches.

As for Karsdorp, the opportunity to move to the Premier League could be an exciting one. He will be looking to get his career back on track with regular football at the London club.

Furthermore, given the reported asking price, the Dutchman could prove to be a bargain for Fulham. He is at the peak of his career right now and if he manages to adapt to English football quickly, he could transform them at the back.

It makes no sense to hold on to an unhappy player and therefore Roma should look to get rid of him swiftly. A transfer is best for all parties and it remains to be seen how the situation develops.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2022/12/31/fulham-in-talks-to-sign-rick-karsdorp/

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Fulham 'offered' player as Arsenal transfer bid prepared amid £10m claim

Fulham latest transfer news and rumours ahead of the January window.

The January transfer window is just a few short hours away from being open. Who will Marco Silva and Fulham look to bring in to help solidify their position in the Premier League? Moreover - are they planning on moving any players on?

Fulham interested in Cedric Soares
Fulham are 'expected to make a formal offer' for Portuguese right back Cedric Soares in January, according to the Evening Standard. However, they aren't the only club reported to be in the race - the Evening Standard says that Bayer Leverkusen and Atletico Madrid are also interested in bringing Cedric on board.

Soares has been in the Premier League since 2015 (except for a brief loan spell at Inter Milan in 2019), playing for both Southampton and his current club, Arsenal. This season, he has made just two appearances (both from the bench) in the Premier League for the Gunners, registering zero goals and assists.

Cottagers 'offered chance' to sign Roma defender
Fulham have been offered the opportunity to sign Rick Karsdorp from Roma, according to Calciomercato. Despite this, the Italian outlet say that Fulham believe 'Roma's request is too high'.

Reportedly, Roma have given Karsdorp a price tag of around £10 million, which Fulham are apparently reluctant to pay. The asking amount has been described by Calciomercato as an 'obstacle that currently blocks everything'.

The 27-year-old is currently out of favour at Roma, with reports of him and Jose Mourinho falling out, according to Corriere Dello Sport. Roma are reportedly keen to move him on - therefore, if a move does not immediately materialise, they may offer him to clubs at a lowered price.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-offered-player-as-arsenal-transfer-bid-prepared-amid-ps10m-claim-3970751

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Fulham 'realistic' despite being seventh, says Silva

Marco Silva insists Fulham's targets will not change this season despite going seventh in the Premier League with a 2-1 win over Southampton.

Joao Palhinha headed in a late winner after James Ward-Prowse had made amends for his earlier own goal by bending in a free-kick.

Aleksandar Mitrovic also missed a late penalty but it mattered not as Silva's side secured another three points following the 3-0 win over Crystal Palace on Boxing Day.

But the Fulham boss was keen to stress that his side must keep their feet on the ground and says Premier League survival is still the focus.

"We have to be realistic," the Fulham boss said.

"I'm not talking (about) the ambition that we have and my ambition as a manager, the way the team is playing as well.

"We are a really ambitious club but we know our reality, we know what type of competition we are playing in and the type of teams we are playing against. Southampton are in last position in the table and it was really tough for us.

"We are not in a position to change one word of our targets and our goals this season. We really have to keep our feet on the ground.

"What's realistic is to fight to remain in the Premier League. This is what we are fighting for.

"It's not to take pressure off us because I love the pressure. It's something that we have to embrace.

"But to change in the middle of the season without a reason, because I don't see a reason, our targets and our goals we don't change in this way. Our target is to remain in the Premier League.

"It's a very good achievement from ourselves to reach 25 points at this moment in the season but we need much more to remain in the Premier League."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-realistic-despite-being-seventh-says-silva

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Palhinha punishes cynical Saints
They left it late, but Fulham finally ground down a cynical Southampton side to claim a crucial win on the day Craven Cottage paid a fitting tribute to both George Cohen and Pele. Joao Palhinha headed from another clever corner with two minutes to play after Kenny Tete had won a flick on, to restore the Whites' lead after a wonderful James Ward-Prowse free-kick had cancelled out the hosts' opener, when the midfielder deflected Andreas Pereira's shot past Gavin Bazunu.

Aleksandar Mitrovic proved he was human by seeing a stoppage time spot-kick saved by Bazunu after substitute Dan James had been fouled in the area, but the first failure of the Serbian's sensational season did not prove costly. Marco Silva's side have made a mockery of the pessimism of the pundits and sit in seventh at the end of the most successful calendar year in the history of London's oldest professional football club. Cohen, who made 459 appearances for his boyhood club, and Pele – who described the Whites as his favourite English side after playing at Craven Cottage in 1963 – would certainly approve.

The swirling wind and rain did not make this the sort of stylish encounter that Silva's side have served up this season and a snarling Southampton, very much in the image of their lairy former Luton manager Nathan Janes, gradually inched up the field, looking lively on the counter-attack. Che Adams, who ended Slavisa Jokanovic's 23-match unbeaten run at St. Andrew's and is a regular scourge of the Cottagers, had a very presentable early opportunity but Bernd Leno scampered off his line and saved.

There was another scare when Mohamed Elyounnoussi lashed wastefully over from the edge of the box with two Saints forwards free, but Fulham controlled possession and created good chances of their own. Willian whistled a shot just past the angle of post and bar, whilst the bright Bobby Decordova-Reid had a shot blocked. Fulham raised the intensity and they took the lead from a smart set-piece.

Willian's corner came from the old Manchester United playbook, with the ex-Old Trafford playmaker Pereira on lurking on the edge of area, and the Brazilian's shot flew past a bewildered Bazunu after deflecting off the unfortunate Ward-Prowse. Fulham looked more fluent at the start of the second half with Pereira prodding wide after Decordova-Reid had retrieved Harrison Reed's overhit cross. But the hosts were to pay for that prolificacy when Ward-Prowse bent a brilliant free-kick around the wall and into the top corner to haul the league's bottom side level.

The equaliser enlivened Saints, who suddenly looked likely to go on and grab all three points. Adams still worried the Whites in behind, with substitute Stuart Armstrong offering creativity that had previously been lacking. Silva sent on Tom Cairney and Dan James, with the latter delivering a high-octane, helter-skelter cameo where he gave the ball away three times in quick succession whilst simultaneously threatening the Southampton defence with his pace.

Cairney again made a telling contribution from the bench, with his experience a calming presence in the centre of the park from where the Whites began the wrestle the initiative. The playmaker even pinched possession on the halfway line with a powerful tackle and surged straight at the Saints defence. He eventually released Robinson along the left and although the American full back's cross was too high for Mitrovic, Bazunu parried it straight to Kenny Tete. The otherwise excellent right back fired over the top.

Southampton were bitty and battled hard, but their direct football was totally transformed from the teams of Adkins, Pochettino and Hassenhattl who all strutted their successfully in SW6. Graham Scott lost control of the contest long before Sam Edozie literally laughed in his face and chuckled heartily at the Hammersmith End after being labelled a cheat for some highly accomplished amateur dramatics. It was the home side who had the last laugh, when Palhinha ghosted away from Stuart Armstrong to nod into the net after Tete had flicked on Pereira's corner. He wheeled away to celebrate more in relief then ecstasy, but these ugly victories are almost more telling than the Boxing Day stroll at Selhurst Park.

Bazunu did save Mitrovic's stoppage-time spot kick after flooring James following a comical mix-up between the Saints goalkeeper and Lyanco, but that failure was only academic. Fulham's fourth home win in seven sees Silva's side finish 2022 immediately above Chelsea and Brentford. In front of a clutch of club legends who had come to pay their own personal tributes to the gentlemanly George Cohen, the current side might fancy matching Roy Hodgson's 2008/09 team who finished that campaign in seventh and qualified for Europe. We can dream.

FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Diop, Ream; Reed (Cairney 62), Palhinha; Decordova-Reid (James 72), Willian, Pereira (Adarabioyo 90+8); Mitrovic. Subs (not used): Rodak, Duffy, Chalobah, Harris, Vinicius.

GOALS: Pereira (32), Palhinha (88).

SOUTHAMPTON (3-4-2-1): Bazunu; Lyanco, Salisu (Lavia 90), Bella-Kotchap, Elyounoussi (Mara 90), Ward-Prowse, Maitland-Niles (A. Armstrong 90), Walker-Peters, Aribo (S. Armstrong 67),, Edozie (Perraud 77); Adams. Subs (not used): Cabellero, Finnigan, Caleta-Car, Diallo.

BOOKED: Elyounoussi.

GOAL: Ward-Prowse (56).

REFEREE: Graham Scott

ATTENDANCE: 24,343.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/12/palhinha-punishes-cynical-saints/

[WhiteJC]

Christian Pulisic could finally leave Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal are keen on Yunus Musah, while both Milan teams like Fulham's Antonee Robinson... the USA stars who are in the January shop window after the World Cup

    Christian Pulisic leaving Chelsea has been possible move to watch since summer
    Yunus Musah appears to be the next hot American wonderkid on the market
    Both Milan giants may battle for Antonee Robinson if he leaves Premier League

The USMNT had a strong performance that both fans and the US soccer federation can be proud of after advancing to the Round of 16 at the Qatar World Cup.

Team USA recorded draws against both England and Wales before defeating Iran to reach the knockout stage. During large portions of all three games the US looked like the stronger team and by all means should have walked away with two wins if not for an absolutely foolish penalty that allowed Wales to tie the game. 

The United States were simply outclassed by Holland before being sent home. Impressive performances from several players has sparked transfer interest among some of Europe's biggest teams ahead of the January window.


The young USA national team impressed en route to the World Cup last-16 in Qatar this winter

Christian Pulisic 

There's only one place to start and that's with Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic.

The attacker has been on the fringes of Chelsea's team and has struggled to find starting minutes over the last 18 months.

Playing under multiple managers during his time in London has not helped the 24-year-old. After a promising start to his Chelsea career during Frank Lampard's time in charge of the Blues, things have gone downhill during the tenures of both Thomas Tuchel and now current manager Graham Potter. 

Pulisic's name has been linked with a move away from Chelsea since the summer with frustration at a lack of minutes with the World Cup just months away. He ended up staying put. 

Pulisic showed that he's too good to be sitting regularly on the substitutes' bench in Qatar as he played a pivotal role for the USA.

As the focal point of the American attack, he registered the opening assist for Timothy Weah's goal against Wales. 

During the game against England he outplayed and outperformed both of England's starting wingers Mason Mount and Raheem Sterling. Both of which are repeatedly picked over him for Chelsea.

The American No. 10's future is really up in the air with his Chelsea contract only having a season and a half left. As his transfer value drops with the end of his deal approaching the question is whether Chelsea will cash in before it drops even more?

Manchester United, Newcastle, Arsenal, and several teams in Serie A have registered interest in Pulisic, who may fancy the chance to find more minutes elsewhere if he does not see improved playing time following the World Cup.

Weston McKennie 

Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie is the next big-name American that could potentially move to a new home in the near future. 

The 24-year-old has seen a decrease in his playing time and the club are reportedly open to selling him. 

The Old Lady have set an asking price of around $31million but may be willing to accept less, according to Football Italia. 

McKennie has improved his game greatly since being acquired by Juventus from German side FC Schalke for around $20m. 

He has also started to expand his game, being utilized in a role that allows him to surge forward and attack rather than only playing as a ball-winning midfielder.

Manchester United and Tottenham were said to have enquired about McKennie last summer and are still monitoring him along with Chelsea, while his representatives have already engaged in conversations with Borussia Dortmund and Aston Villa, reports Calciomercato.

Yunus Musah 

Yunus Musah, 20, was already in the process of turning heads and garnering attention from several clubs around Europe, but he did a terrific job at the World Cup to boost his profile.

Not only has Musah become a regular in the Valencia squad, but he also showed just how much of an important piece he is to the United States midfield during the tournament.

When Musah did not feature in America's squad during the warm-up friendlies against Japan and Saudi Arabia it highlighted just how crucial of a role he played in helping the USA transition the ball from the midfield into the final third of the pitch.

Following his impressive four games with America, the Premier League trio of Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea have all set their sights on Musah, according to multiple recent reports.

Musah was originally part of Arsenal's youth academy where he played for seven seasons before leaving to play for the Spanish club, which has tied him down to a long-term contract that runs through 2026. 

The deal is also set to have a massive release clause of around $110m, however Musah's agent stated that he believes his client can be had for around $30-$40m, as reported by Calciomercato.

Sergino Dest  

Sergino Dest appears to be the easiest transfer to predict of all the players on the USMNT due to his loan status at AC Milan.

Dest joined Milan this season on loan from Barcelona after being told he was not going to be part of manager Xavi's plans.

The 22-year-old has featured sparingly in Milan, totaling 375 minutes in nine appearances, however he has apparently shown enough for the Rossoneri to want to keep him in town.

Corriere dello Sport report Milan is ready to pay a cash-strapped Barcelona team $20m for Dest to get the deal done.

According to the report Dest's solid performances with Team USA during the World Cup were the deciding factor in convincing the bosses at Milan that he was a player they should invest in going forward.

Antonee Robinson 

America's other full-back Antonee Robinson has also become the subject of speculation following strong showings with not only the national team but also with his club Fulham.

Throughout the United States' group games and the Round of 16 Robinson not only looked like the fastest player on the field, but also one of the fastest in the entire tournament.

His performances have opened up the possibilities of moves to the higher echelons of the Premier League or to the top of Serie A.

Newcastle seem to be the hottest on his trail and reportedly ready to send an offer in the neighborhood of $16m come January. Arch-rivals Inter and AC Milan are both also said to be interested, in the 25-year-old known to his teammates as Jedi, as reported by The Sun.

The outlet reported that Robinson nearly signed for AC Milan several years ago but a misleading medical suggested he had a heart issue that led him to eventually sign with Fulham. 

The Italian route may have more appeal to Fulham rather than selling him to another Premier League team.

It is also worth noting that even though Fulham are said to have no interest in selling him, Robinson is entering the final 18 months of his contract and it may be time to cash in on the player. 

Matt Turner 

Matt Turner may seem like the most surprising player on this list due to the fact that he just joined Arsenal from the New England Revolution of MLS, however he stood out at the World Cup.

Throughout all four of America's games Turner showed his quality after being given a chance. He has also produced strong performances when used for his domestic team but he is Arsenal's backup and is having to bide his time.

During the group stage Turner allowed only one goal to slip past him, and it was a penalty kick. In the matches against England and Iran, he pulled off several acrobatic saves to hold on to the clean sheets and help the United States advance to the last-16.

Turner has also been urged to look to leave Arsenal by former USMNT manager Bruce Arena - who also managed Turner with the Revolution. 

'He has to move out of Arsenal to start playing on a regular basis, but he's proven himself to be a very good goalkeeper for the US,' Arena told MLS Soccer. Former USMNT goalkeeper Brad Friedel also made similar statements about Turner needing to depart for more game time before the World Cup began.

The 28-year-old has firmly put himself in the shop window should he want a new challenge, and more importantly, regular action elsewhere.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11523277/USA-stars-January-shop-window-World-Cup-displays.html