Thursday Fulham Stuff - 12/01/23...

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Fulham boss Silva chasing up to three new signings

Fulham boss Marco Silva says he hopes to add at least three players during this month's transfer window.

The Whites face Chelsea at Craven Cottage on Thursday as they go in search of a fourth successive Premier League win and a move into the top six if they beat the Blues for the first time since 2006.

Fulham made 10 signings in the summer window and Silva would like to strengthen his squad to help the side push for a first European campaign since 2010.

"We are looking to get players in but I am not a big fan of changing things in the January market," Silva said.

"It's only if something has gone wrong – and that's not the case.

"We have strengthened in some positions, which is what we are doing, with high ambition.

"We are pleased with the squad, but we need to perhaps strengthen two or three positions."

Fulham will be without suspended leading scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic for the visit of Graham Potter's out-out-form side and although Siva concedes it is a big blow to not have the talismanic Serb, he backed Carlos Vinicius to fill the void.

The former Tottenham striker is yet to score since arriving at Craven Cottage.

Silva says Mitrovic's ban allows him extra time continue his recovery from his long-standing foot problem.

"We rested him at Hull (in the FA Cup) but he is starting to get better and does not need a long time to recover anymore after matches, which is good," Silva explained.

"The main option is Vinicius but Bobby (De Cordova-Reid) can play there and (Dan) James as well.

"We have an good idea from practice with Carlos what he can do. We want him to be himself and have a good moment to show his quality."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-boss-silva-chasing-up-to-three-new-signings

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Fulham Rumour Round-Up: Doucoure, Smalling, McKennie

It's all gone a little bit quiet on the transfer rumour front. It could very well be the calm before the storm, mind, so Cam's organised another round-up to ramp-up the levels of anticipation.

Abdoulaye Doucoure – Everton
It's the Daily Mail's understanding that Fulham are reluctant to enter negotiations with Everton for Abdoulaye Doucoure, as they are concerned that the midfielder's steep financial demands could cause issues.

It's well-documented that the Whites are in the market for an established holding midfielder and Doucoure, 30, has been earmarked as a potential addition. The Mali international is supposedly on big money at the Toffees, though, and while Marco Silva's worked with him previously at Watford, funds may be better invested in a more economical target.

Ewan Otoo – Celtic B
Another Daily Mail article suggests that Aston Villa, Burnley and Fulham are monitoring Celtic B captain Ewan Otoo. Otoo, 20, has been at the Hoops since the age of 8 and has graduated through the development ranks, and he's now impressing in the Lowland League for the club's secondary squad.

He signed his first pro deal in 2019 and in 16 outings this season, the centre-back has one goal, alongside a solitary assist. Celtic B are currently second in their respective division's standings but have two games in-hand on league leaders The Spartans, and they are only a point behind.

Omar Colley – Sampdoria
A report published by Samp News 24 proposes that Fulham are tracking Sampdoria's 30-year-old defender Omar Colley, and a figure of €5m could be enough to persuade the Serie A side to sell him in the mid-season transfer period.

The Whites were supposedly pursuing Colley in the summer, but were deterred by Sampdoria's €10m price tag. Despite slashing the supposed asking price in half, the Gambia international has been a trustworthy Blucerchiati squad member and it's yet to become clear if Fulham are serious suitors.

Chris Smalling – AS Roma
The same Samp News 24 article states that the Whites are also weighing up a reunion with AS Roma's Chris Smalling who, as we know, earned his stripes at Craven Cottage in his formative years. At 33, Smalling is entering the latter stages of his career but at Roma, he's regarded as an integral component.

He's a defensive linchpin for the Giallorossi and with three goals to his name, he's also a notable set-piece threat, with towering headers being his mode of attack. In England, Smalling was inconsistent, disposable but Jose Mourinho has revitalised the forgotten Three Lions representative so a departure in January is unlikely.

Danny McNamara – Millwall
According to the Daily Mail, Fulham are keeping tabs on Millwall right-back Danny McNamara, as the Whites are scouring for a capable fullback to understudy first-team favourite Kenny Tete.

McNamara, 24, is a versed Championship competitor and has been on Millwall's books since 2017. He's also a former two-time Ireland U21 participant. In relation to those we've been linked with, McNamara's mention isn't particularly eye-catching but if we're wanting a player that would presumably be more than happy to learn and progress, knowing they'd be second choice, he could be the ideal signing after all.

Weston McKennie – Juventus
We couldn't possibly add another to the Fulhamerica contingent, could we? Well, it's a long shot, but Italian journalist Giovanni Albanese has disclosed (via Gazzatta) that Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie is not entertaining AFC Bournemouth's alleged €40m bid, and that there are two other interested parties from the Premier League in Aston Villa and Fulham.

It's believed that Juve are hoping to move the American on in the coming weeks and that also goes for the player's representatives as well. McKennie, 24, starred as the USMNT reached the 2022 World Cup round-of-16 but while Fulham has been a welcome destination for Americans, past and present, it's thought McKennie wants to remain at the very top of the game at club level. Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund are also said to be circling.

James Bree – Luton Town
The Daily Mail certainly have us covered where right-backs are concerned. The tabloid suggests that the Whites have set their sights on Luton Town's James Bree, among others, if they fail to land players of a higher priority.

Bree, 25, joined the Hatters from Aston Villa in January, 2017, and in 25 league appearances this season, he has three assists. We've seen first-hand what Bree offers, he's an abrasive, workmanlike type of defender that contributes effectively at both ends of the pitch and though he may not have Premier League experience, he's someone that could definitely flourish in the top flight.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-01-11-fulham-rumour-round-up-doucoure-smalling-mckennie/

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Chelsea XI vs Fulham: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news and injury latest for Premier League derby

Graham Potter is not expected to throw new Chelsea signing Joao Felix straight into his starting line-up as the manager prepares for a London derby against an impressive Fulham side.

The forward on Wednesday joined from Atletico Madrid for the remainder of the season, and has trained with his new team-mates, but Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is expected to be handed a rare start.

With Christian Pulisic out for a "couple of months" and Raheem Sterling no closer to returning, the out-of-form summer addition should partner Kai Havertz in attack.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek is in training but still not fit enough to play after his ankle injury, while Ben Chilwell is slowly edging closer to a return from his hamstring injury.

Chelsea also remain without N'Golo Kante, Edouard Mendy, Reece James, Wesley Fofana and Armando Broja with a total of 10 players out of their west London derby match.

James is back out running on grass and Kante is doing individual training but they are not expected back this week with no precise timeframe given for their recovery.

However, Aubameyang returned from a back injury that kept him out of the 4-0 FA Cup third-round defeat to Manchester City on Sunday and could be drafted in for his first start since the World Cup. Felix will be hoping for his first minutes off the bench, should the Premier League confirm his eligibility for the game.

The Blues will likely pick an experienced side after winning just one of their last eight Premier League matches.

The Blues are in tenth, 10 points off the top four places to qualify for the Champions League and three points behind their west London rivals in the Premier League table.

Predicted Chelsea XI: Kepa; Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva, Koulibaly, Cucurella; Kovacic, Mount, Jorginho; Ziyech, Aubameyang, Havertz.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/chelsea-fc-xi-vs-fulham-predicted-lineup-confirmed-team-news-injury-latest-2023-premier-league-b1052236.html

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Graham Potter starts 23-year-old out of position: Predicted Chelsea XI for Fulham match tomorrow

Graham Potter is unlikely to be able to call upon Joao Felix for tomorrow's Premier League derby against Fulham.

The Portugal international is yet to be announced as a Chelsea player, despite reportedly being spotted at the training ground ahead of the deal being confirmed.

Instead, the former Brighton man will have to work with the same depleted squad that have been hit with dismal injury luck.

Here's The Chelsea Chronicle's predicted line-up for the West London derby.

GK and Defence
Edouard Mendy's finger injury makes Kepa Arrizabalaga the obvious choice for goalkeeper, despite a number of questions over a few goals conceded recently.

With no Reece James still, Trevoh Chalobah will be handed the start at right-back, similar to how he was playing against Manchester City in the FA Cup.

Thiago Silva's organisational skills were sorely missed at the weekend, and he'll return for the start tomorrow night.

He will be partnered by Kalidou Koulibaly, whose mixed start to life in England continued at the Etihad.

Marc Cucurella, who has certainly looked a lot stronger in the games since the World Cup break, will return at left-back.

Midfield
Denis Zakaria has been arguably the standout star since domestic football returned, and he will start in midfield tomorrow.

Jorginho will continue in a midfield three that is still desperately missing a figure such as N'golo Kante.

The trio will be completed by Mateo Kovacic, who certainly takes some of the workload the Switzerland international has had when partnering Jorginho in a two.

Attack
Injuries to wingers will hand Hakim Ziyech another chance on the right-hand-side. It feels like it's now or never for his Chelsea career.

Mason Mount will return to a more attacking role, with the likes of Raheem Sterling and Christian Pulisic not fit to feature.

Kai Havertz will lead the line, despite recently showing he perhaps suit a slightly deeper role a lot better.



https://www.thechelseachronicle.com/match-preview/graham-potter-starts-23-year-old-out-of-position-predicted-chelsea-xi-for-fulham-match-tomorrow/

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They are always Chelsea – Fulham's Marco Silva still wary of beleaguered Blues

Silva's side head into the match seventh in the table having won all three Premier League games since action resumed in December following the World Cup

Fulham manager Marco Silva has "no doubts" over Chelsea's high quality despite their recent poor form ahead of Thursday's west London derby at Craven Cottage.

Silva's side head into the match seventh in the table having won all three Premier League games since action resumed in December following the World Cup, and having already equalled the points tally from their last top-flight campaign (28), when they were relegated under Scott Parker in 2020-21.

Graham Potter's Blues, in contrast, have managed just one win in their last eight league matches and are currently dealing with a severe injury crisis, but Silva still expects them to be a force to be reckoned with.

"Even with some injuries – and you know we are not with our full squad as well for the match – they are always Chelsea," the Portuguese said.

"And I think it is clear that two seasons ago they won the Champions League, this season they spent more than £300million, we cannot talk about all these things.

"I think it is clear the high quality they have in their squad, for me there are no doubts about it. It's more for Potter to decide who will be in the XI and I will do the same with my squad."

Silva has been encouraged by the progress made by Serbia striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, who has been dealing with a foot injury sustained on international duty in October.

Mitrovic has scored 11 Premier League goals this season but will miss Thursday's match through suspension after picking up a fifth booking of the campaign in last week's win at Leicester.

"He is getting better and better and better," the Fulham boss said.

"Now he is training every single day with his team-mates. After the matches we don't need a long time to recover him from the game before.

"All these things are a good sign for us and that we are going to have him even better in the next few games."

On the prospect of facing Chelsea without the talismanic frontman, Silva said: "The main solution is (Carlos) Vinicius, but we have other solutions as well.

"Bobby (Decordova-Reid) can play there, (Dan) James can play there as well and it is up to me to decide what will be the best one to start the game."



https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/soccer/arid-41045987.html

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Fulham boss Marco Silva holds mixed feelings on January transfer window

Marco Silva has revealed that Fulham will be active during the January transfer window, despite admitting that he is not a fan of the current period.

When the Cottagers made 11 first-team additions in the summer, the West Londoners were bidding to avoid a relegation battle in the Premier League.

Instead, Fulham are competing for European qualification, Silva's team currently occupying seventh positions and sitting just seven points adrift of the top four.

Given the level of their financial outlay up until September 1, there are unlikely to be major changes to the current first-team squad.

Silva himself has also acknowledged that he is against tinkering with his squad at the midway point of the campaign.

Nevertheless, the Portuguese has indicated that he plans to follow the direction of rival clubs by making alterations to his senior group at Craven Cottage.

Speaking to reporters at a press conference, Silva said: "We are looking to get some players in to strengthen our squad, but changing lots of things during the January window is not something that I am a really big fan of.

"It's just if something went wrong for us, but we do want to strengthen our squad in certain positions. Clearly it is what the teams around us are doing, they are doing it with very high ambitions in my opinion.

"That doesn't mean that we have to do it, but there are certain areas where we do need to get stronger."

Fulham are currently preparing to play host to neighbours Chelsea at a time when they hold an advantage over their fierce rivals.

Silva's side are three points clear of the Blues, although Chelsea have played a game fewer and can move ahead of Thursday's hosts with a two-goal win.

At a time when Fulham have prevailed in their last four fixtures in all competitions, Chelsea are without success in three outings, two of those matches being versus Manchester City.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/fulham-boss-silva-holds-mixed-feelings-on-january-window_503949.html

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Willian can be Fulham's talisman against Chelsea

Adrian Clarke says Brazilian winger will be a key figure in absence of Aleksandar Mitrovic

Adrian Clarke looks at key tactical points and players who can be decisive in Matchweek 19.

Willian (FUL)
In-form Fulham will be hoping Willian's quality in the final third can tip the balance in their favour as they target a first win over Chelsea since March 2006.

Chelsea arrive at Craven Cottage in poor form, with a run of four defeats in their last six Premier League matches leaving them 10th in the table.

By contrast, Fulham head into the derby on the back of three consecutive wins, sitting seventh, three points ahead of their visitors.

But the Cottagers' top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic is suspended, missing Thursday's match, which puts the experienced Willian firmly in the spotlight.

Facing Chelsea for the first time since leaving Stamford Bridge in 2020, there will an added onus on him to deliver a telling performance.

Influential role
Willian has put a frustrating spell at Arsenal firmly behind him this season, shining for Fulham.

While he no longer has an explosive burst of pace and is unlikely to score as many goals as he once did, he has used his footballing brain and classy right foot to good effect in 2022/23.

Willian likes to drift in from the left flank to free up space for left-back Antonee Robinson, and has consistently delivered key passes.

Fulham open-chances chances created

2022/23	Chances/90
Willian	1.5
Neeskens Kebano	1.3
Harrison Reed	1.1
Andreas Pereira	0.9
Aleksandar Mitrovic	0.9

The Brazilian has been Fulham's most creative player in open play this term, carving out 1.5 opportunities for team-mates per 90 minutes.

A tally of two assists does not reflect his influence, but he conjured a delightful chipped pass for Mitrovic's winning goal in their last Premier League match, a 1-0 win at Leicester City.

Willian's assist v Leicester

Mitro's best @premierleague seasons:

15/16: 11 goals.
18/19: 11 goals.
22/23: 11 goals already. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/LoGHNDzban

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) January 4, 2023

Marco Silva's Fulham have been a sparkling attacking force this season.

They have scored in 16 of their 18 matches, and against every team currently outside of the bottom three, so they should feel confident of breaching Chelsea's fragile defence.

The loss of Mitrovic is a blow, but Willian will test opponents with his positive passing.

His calmness around the box helps Fulham to pin teams back and enjoy more periods of sustained pressure. 

No player outside of the "big six" clubs is completing more successful passes that end up inside the final third.

Successful passes ending in final third*

Fulham	Passes/90	Players outside 'big six'	Passes/90
Willian	15.5	Willian	15.5
Robinson	9.3	Rice	15.4
Kebano	9.1	Almiron	15.2
Reed	8.3	Gross	14.3
Pereira	8.1	Caicedo	14.2

*Minimum 8 starts

Willian's line-breaking quality could be a key factor against Chelsea.

He will have his eye on releasing Robinson on overlaps behind the Blues' defence, while also looking for anyone who makes a run into the box.

This is not a fixture Fulham have enjoyed – they have won just once in 30 attempts in the Premier League – but even without Mitrovic they have individuals who can hurt their illustrious visitors.

Willian certainly falls into that category, having been rejuvenated by his status as a key man for Fulham.



https://www.premierleague.com/news/3015367

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Fulham v Chelsea

Fulham have lost all three league games this season in which Aleksandar Mitrovic hasn't played

TEAM NEWS
Fulham will be without top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic, who is banned after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season earlier this month.

Shane Duffy remains out with illness, while Neeskens Kebano is a long-term absentee with an Achilles injury.

Chelsea's long injury list includes Christian Pulisic, who faces two months out with a knee problem, and Raheem Sterling, who has a hamstring injury.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has recovered from a back issue.

The Blues await confirmation on whether Joao Felix, who has joined on loan from Atletico Madrid, signed in time to be eligible for this game.



MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

    Chelsea have won seven straight league meetings with Fulham.
    Fulham have won just seven of the 74 league meetings, the lowest win rate in a fixture to have been played at least 50 times in English football league history.
    The Cottagers have won just one of their 30 Premier League matches against Chelsea, a 1-0 victory in March 2006.
    The Blues have shipped just six goals in their last 15 Premier League games against Fulham, and have not conceded more than once in any of those fixtures.

Fulham

    Fulham are aiming to win four consecutive top-flight games for the first time since 1966, when they had a run of five.
    They have taken nine points from their last four league matches - only three Premier League sides have earned more in that period.
    Marco Silva's side have scored in 16 different Premier League matches this campaign, a joint-league high alongside Arsenal, Manchester City and Spurs.
    Fulham are looking to win consecutive Premier League London derbies for the first time since April 2013, when they won three in a row.

Chelsea

    Chelsea could go winless in six successive away games in all competitions for the first time since September to November 2015 under Jose Mourinho, who was sacked the following month.
    Graham Potter's side have scored just five goals in their last eight league matches, failing to score in half of those.
    Chelsea are winless in all seven Premier League fixtures this season against teams above them in the table (D3, L4).
    But the Blues have won nine of their last 11 away London derbies in the Premier League.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/62776438

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Marco's Chelsea Preview

Marco Silva previewed an SW6 derby with Chelsea as his side aim to keep the good form coming on Thursday night at the Cottage.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/january/11/marcos-chelsea-preview/

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Silva all set for derby day
Fulham head coach Marco Silva won't be taking Chelsea lightly tomorrow – even though the Blues have won just one of their last eight matches under Graham Potter.

The Whites head into the SW6 derby ahead of their near neighbours in the table for the first time in forty years, with Potter under serious pressure despite only taking over Stamford Bridge earlier this season. Silva told his pre-match press conference this lunchtime that he was still preparing for a stern test:

"We know the type of opposition that we're playing and we know the quality of the opposition side, even if they are not achieving the results that they wanted. We know for sure it will be a tough match for us.

Even with some injuries as well, and even without a full squad as well, they are always Chelsea. That is clear. They are a team two seasons ago that won the Champions League. This season they spent more than £300 million, talking about all these things, they have high, high quality in their squad for me, no doubts about it."

Silva says morale at Motspur Park is high after four consecutive wins and the Portuguese coach remains adamant that his approach will not change with local bragging rights up for grabs.

"Keep the same mentality, keep the same idea. We knew we were going to play the best and most difficult competition in the world but the main thing for us was to keep building on from last season and create a mentality inside this football club and the way we play won't change, that was the main reason for us to keep believing in ourselves and keep playing the way we are playing. Of course, after the work from our players, the behaviour, the mindset, they are always open to learn and we as a group here are ready to learn."

The Fulham boss admitted that being without the banned Aleksandar Mitrovic is a blow but believes he has several options to pick from in attack.

The main solution is (Carlos) Vinicius, but we have other solutions as well. Bobby (Decordova-Reid) can play there, (Dan) James can play there as well and it is up to me to decide what will be the best one to start the game."

Silva insisted it was silly to compare Vinicius, who has set to score a competitive goal for Fulham, with the Serbian but feels he can make a mark against the Blues.

"He has to be himself. Play to his strengths. We have an idea, we practise with Mitro in that position and Carlos. But they are different players, and we have to explore different things to get the best from. It's a moment for him to pop up."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/silva-all-set-for-derby-day/

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Marco Silva pays Liam Rosenior tribute amid Hull City improvement

The ex-Tigers boss says he's been impressed with Liam Rosenior's turnaround

Marco Silva says Hull City are a better team now than when his Fulham side last visited the MKM Stadium in February last season.

The Cottagers boss masterminded a 2-0 FA Cup win last weekend to see his Premier League side ease through to round four of the world's oldest cup competition and set up a home tie with Sunderland later this month, despite an encouraging display from City.

Silva's second visit to the MKM Stadium as an opposition boss came after winning by an Aleksandar Mitrovic header against Shota Arveladze's Tigers early in the Georgian's tenure last term on the way to winning promotion back to the top flight.

Arveladze has since left after a poor start to the Championship campaign following an aggressive recruitment campaign in the summer, and his replacement, Liam Rosenior, has masterminded a significant upturn in fortunes, something Silva says has been clear to see from the quality of their performance levels.

"They are better, I have to say," Silva told Hull Live. "They are better, of course. Now you can feel - I don't want to compare because I didn't analyse them earlier in the season - what I can talk about is the last few games that we analysed to prepare for the game.

"They are achieving good results, and in my opinion, because they are performing much better and their results are coming for them.

"It is a different team, I know the people that is behind (the scenes) and it's always tough to come here. We approach in the same way (as a Premier League game) because we know we haven't changed many things from last season.

"Firstly, I know what it means to come here and play. I said before, since they've changed (manager) and Liam has taken over, they've clearly improved as a squad, their performances, and their results."

Silva made seven changes to his side from their win at Leicester City while Rosenior made eight on the back of a thumping win at Wigan Athletic, but he says facing the Tigers on their own patch was still a challenge as he reflected on his spell stood in the home dugout.

"Yes seven different players, but the idea, our mentality is the same and we approach every game to win the football match. It was difficult in the same way as last season.

"It is always a special moment to come here, to see important faces who helped me in my career as well. Today is January 7, six years from my first game at Hull.

"It's a coincidence but my first game in England was on January 7 at this stadium in the FA Cup as well, it's a coincidence but it's always special to be here."



https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/marco-silva-liam-rosenior-hull-8018266

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Silva seeks three signings
Marco Silva wants to make at least three signings this month – even though the Fulham head coach is not necessarily a fan of the January transfer window.

The Whites sit just seven points off the Champions' League spots in seventh place after a remarkable start to their return to the top flight and Silva told his pre-match press conference ahead of tomorrow night's SW6 derby that he would only be entering the transfer market for the right type of player.

"We are looking to get some players in to strengthen our squad, but changing lots of things during the January window is not something that I am a really big fan of. It's just if something went wrong for us, but we do want to strengthen our squad in certain positions. Clearly it is what the teams around us are doing, they are doing it with very high ambitions in my opinion. That doesn't mean that we have to do it, but there are certain areas where we do need to get stronger. We are pleased with the squad, but we need to perhaps strengthen two or three positions."

Silva wants a new option at right back to challenge Kenny Tete after Kevin Mbabu's disappointing start to his Craven Cottage career and is eyeing cover in central midfield for first choice pairing Joao Palhinha and Harrison Reed. Fulham might even be tempted to add to their attacking resources, with Carlos Vinicius set to replace the suspended Aleksandar Mitrovic for the local derby against Chelsea tomorrow night.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/silva-seeks-three-signings/

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Can Joao Felix play against Fulham? Chelsea loanee's situation explained after transfer completed

A look at Chelsea's Joao Felix loan transfer and when the Portuguese star can make his Blues debut.

Chelsea have completed their latest signing, snapping up Portuguese superstar Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid.

The Blues have been in serious need of new attacking talent, and they have opted for a temporary option, with Felix joining on a loan deal until the end of the season. Felix had fallen out with Atletico boss Diego Simeone, and he arrives in West London with a point to prove, likely to get plenty of opportunities to impress with a Chelsea side needing to turn their season around.

But when will the Blues fans get their first look at their new star? We answer that question below.

The Felix deal explained
Chelsea have snapped up Felix on a loan deal until the end of the season, agreeing to pay Atletico a reported loan fee of £9.6million.

The Blues will also be fitting the bill for the forward's large wages, which are understood to be around £250,000-per-week. The most surprising factor of the deal is that there is no option to buy for Chelsea at the end of the loan deal, with Felix signing a new contract with Atletico before leaving for London.

It seems the loan deal will serve as a much-needed break for Felix and Simeone, with the two likely to start again so-to-speak in the summer.

When will Felix make his Chelsea debut?
Chelsea face local rivals Fulham at Craven Cottage on Thursday night, and the Blues are seeking permission from the Premier League for Felix to play, with international clearance needing to go through in time.

Blues boss Graham Potter said on Wednesday "It was good to get him in training today and we will see about playing on Thursday. We're still waiting for confirmation that he can play. From a physical perspective, he can go in. It's always a little bit of an unknown period as he is going from one club to another, but that's on a case-to-case basis."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/chelsea/can-joao-felix-play-against-fulham-chelsea-loanees-situation-explained-after-transfer-completed-3983390

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Fulham vs Chelsea Preview: Probable Lineups, Prediction, Tactics, Team News & Key Stats

Chelsea takes on Fulham in their next Premier League game on Thursday night and they will be hoping to bounce back strongly from the defeat against Manchester City.

The Blues have had a disappointing campaign so far and they are 10th in the league table with just seven wins from 17 league matches.

Graham Potter will be under pressure to get his side back on track and the Blues cannot afford to keep dropping points if they want to secure Champions League qualification for next season.

On the other hand, Fulham have been quite impressive this season and they are 7th in the league table. The home side have picked up three consecutive wins in the league and they will be full of confidence heading into this game.

Chelsea are coming into this game on the back of just one win from their last six league matches and they will need to improve considerably in order to grind out and away when here. The Blues have an impeccable head-to-head record against Fulham in recent seasons and it remains to be seen whether they can extend that run with a victory away from home.

Team News and Tactics
Fulham
Fulham will be without the services of Neeskens Kebano because of an injury. However, the major absentee here will be star striker Aleksandr Mitrovic who picked up his fifth yellow card against Leicester City and he is suspended for this game. The Serbian has been in exceptional form this season and his absence will be a major blow for Fulham.

Marco Silva is expected to set up his side in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Bernd Leno in goal.

Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson are expected to line up as the full-backs here with Issa Diop and Tim Ream starting as the center-backs.

Harrison Reed will partner Joao Palhinha at the heart of the Fulham midfield. Reed will look to break up the play and the Portuguese international will be the box-to-box midfielder here. He will be expected to provide defensive cover and add drive to the midfield.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Willian will be deployed as the wingers here with Andreas Pereira slotting into the number ten role.

Carlos Vinicius is expected to lead the line in the absence of Mitrovic.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Diop, Ream, Robinson; Reed, Palhinha; Cordova-Reid, Pereira, Willian; Vinicius



Chelsea
Graham Potter will be without a number of players for this game.

The away side will be without Reece James, Wesley Fofana, N'Golo Kante, Armando Broja, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Ben Chilwell, Raheem Sterling, Edouard Mendy, and Christian Pulisic because of injuries.

The Blues are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation with Kepa Arrizabalaga in goal.

Cesar Azpilicueta and Marc Cucurella will be deployed as the full-backs here with summer signing Kalidou Koulibaly partnering with Thiago Silva at the heart of the defense.

Jorginho is expected to anchor the midfield alongside Mateo Kovacic and Denis Zakaria. In the front three, Mason Mount and Hakim Ziyech are expected to start as the wide forwards and Kai Havertz will lead the line for the away side.

Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Kepa; Azpilicueta, Koulibaly, Silva, Cucurella; Kovacic, Jorginho, Zakaria; Ziyech, Havertz, Mount



Key Stats

    Chelsea are undefeated in their last 21 matches against Fulham in all competitions.
    Chelsea have kept a clean sheet in 6 of their last 8 matches against Fulham in all competitions.
    Fulham have won their last 3 matches (Premier League).
    Chelsea have scored at least 2 goals in 6 of their last 7 matches against Fulham in all competitions.
    Chelsea are winless in 5 of their last 6 matches in the Premier League.

Player to watch
Kai Havertz

The German international will be expected to produce the goods here in the absence of players like Raheem Sterling and Christian Pulisic. He is set to lead the line for the visitors.

Havertz has three goals in his last five outings in all competitions and he is our man to watch against Fulham on Thursday night. The Blues have an impressive record against the Cottagers and they will need their star attacker to step up if they want to extend their fine run of form against Fulham.

Prediction
Fulham 1-2 Chelsea

Fulham have been outstanding this season and this will be an uphill challenge for the Blues. But the fact that the home side are without Mitrovic, will be a huge advantage for Chelsea. They are under a lot of pressure to produce a strong reaction here. Chelsea have a lot at stake and they are expected to step up and deliver this week.

This is likely to be a close contest, but the Blues have the quality to edge this one. The Hard Tackle predicts a narrow 2-1 win for the away side.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2023/01/11/fulham-vs-chelsea-preview-probable-lineups-prediction-tactics-team-news-key-stats/

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EXCLUSIVE: Marco Silva is set to be offered a new Fulham contract with club chiefs desperate to extend his stay beyond 2024 following their impressive Premier League return

    Fulham chiefs are planning to offer manager Marco Silva a new long-term deal
    Silva's current contract in west London is set to expire at the end of next season
    But Fulham do not want their manager to enter the final 12 months of that deal
    While talks are yet to commence, Silva is aware the club want to extend his stay

Fulham plan to offer manager Marco Silva a new contract as they look to secure his long-term future following the club's impressive Premier League return.

The Cottagers head into Thursday's top-flight clash against neighbours Chelsea with the chance of climbing into sixth place in the table, a lofty achievement for a club who were playing Championship football last season.

As it stands, Fulham, who were among the favourites for relegation at the start of the season, are already the highest-placed club in west London ahead of Brentford and the Blues.


Fulham plan to offer Marco Silva a new contract as they look to secure his long-term future

And Craven Cottage chiefs have made tying Silva down to a contract extension a priority as we enter the second half of the season.

Formal discussions over a new deal are yet to commence, however Silva is understood to be aware of the club's intention to extend his contract.

Ideally, Fulham would like an agreement in place by the end of the season as they look to avoid any uncertainty over their manager's future.


The Cottagers have so far enjoyed an impressive first season back in the Premier League


Fulham officials are determined to tie Silva down to a new long-term contract beyond 2024

Silva, who previously managed Hull, Watford and Everton, has enhanced his reputation at Fulham, where his work in building a side comfortably competing in the Premier League has not gone unnoticed elsewhere.

Silva's current contract expires at the end of next season, but Fulham want to ensure he does not enter the final 12 months of his deal.

It remains to be seen whether negotiating a new contract for Silva turns out to be straightforward, though it is important to stress the Portuguese is said to have a good relationship with the club's board.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11624549/Marco-Silva-set-offered-new-Fulham-contract-club-chiefs-aim-extend-stay-2024.html

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LOAN: ANTHONY KNOCKAERT SIGNS FOR TOWN!

Winger joins Huddersfield Town for remainder of 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season

- Anthony Knockaert signs for Huddersfield Town on loan
- Winger joins from Fulham for remainder of campaign
- Comments from Leigh Bromby and Mark Fotheringham

We are delighted to announce the signing of winger Anthony Knockaert, who has joined the Club on loan from Fulham for the remainder of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season!

Having spent the start of the season with Greek Super League side Volos, the 2016/17 Sky Bet Championship Player of the Year is best known for his spells in English football with Leicester City, Brighton and Hove Albion and Fulham.

An attacking midfielder most often deployed from the right wing where he can cut in onto his dangerous left foot, he is known for his direct dribbling, eye for goal and tenacity in the final third. Knockaert will wear the number 50 shirt for the Terriers, joining in with First Team training at the Millers Oils High Performance Complex immediately.

Still just 31, his professional career began with French side Guingamp in 2010, catching the eye of Leicester City in 2012 after helping his side to gain promotion to Ligue 2. Capped by the French U21 side soon after signing with the Foxes, he was their Young Player of the Year in his first season at the King Power, going on to be a significant part of the 2013/14 promotion side.

Having opted to let his contract with Leicester City expire despite being offered the chance to extend, Knockaert then joined Belgian club Standard Liege in June 2015 where he scored seven times in 27 games across the Belgian top flight, domestic cup and Europa League.

Not away from England for long, he returned to the Sky Bet Championship in January 2016 with Brighton and Hove Albion and made an instant impact, again forming a major part of a side who secured promotion to the Premier League in his first full season. Named the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Year in the 2016/17 promotion season following 15 goals and nine assists in 45 appearances, he then played 63 times in the Premier League for the Seagulls across two campaigns.

Signing for Fulham on a season-long loan in July 2019, he secured a third promotion to the Premier League in West London playing 45 times for the Cottagers, earning himself a permanent transfer. Now joining Town in his third loan move from Fulham, he has previously spent time with Nottingham Forest and most recently Volos.

Head of Football Operations Leigh Bromby commented:

"Anthony possesses the type of individual talent that is a rare find, so we're absolutely delighted to have him with us for the remainder of the season. He has a proven track record at this level and a real hunger to contribute in England again, so that ticks a lot of boxes for us.

"This is the type of signing we hope can give the Club a real lift both on and off the field, with his high profile earned through countless memorable goals and performances that we hope will continue with our shirt on his back.

"He gives us something completely different in the final third whilst complimenting who we are and what we want to be as a team, so there is a real excitement to see how he can contribute between now and the end of the season."

Head Coach Mark Fotheringham added:

"We're delighted to have a player of Anthony's calibre join the group, and I'm really looking forward to working with him between now and the end of the season. He has been a pleasure to deal with to date, and has shown a real desire to buy in to what we're trying to achieve as a team which is a real positive.

"This is the type of signing that shows our ambition and commitment to getting out of our current predicament, with Anthony giving us a completely different point of attack in an area of the pitch that we've been badly hampered by injury.

"You cannot underestimate someone with the track record and experience Anthony has, and that will be invaluable in such an important stretch of the season. He'll be getting involved with training straight away, and we'll hope to have him up to speed and available as soon as possible."

Welcome to the Terriers, Anthony!



https://www.htafc.com/news/2023/january/loan-anthony-knockaert-signs-for-town/

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Huddersfield Town key figures issues message on signing of Fulham man

Huddersfield Town have completed the signing of Anthony Knockaert on loan from Fulham for the rest of the season.

The 31-year-old has been an absorbing watch across the course of his career, thriving in the Championship for Leicester City, Brighton and Hove Albion, Fulham and Nottingham Forest.

The Terriers have shown that they have the quality and cohesion to haul themselves towards safety in the coming months, and the addition of Knockaert will add a point of difference to Mark Fotheringham's attacking contingent.

The manager spoke glowingly of the new signing when he spoke to the club's website.

Fotheringham said: "We're delighted to have a player of Anthony's calibre join the group, and I'm really looking forward to working with him between now and the end of the season.

"He has been a pleasure to deal with to date, and has shown a real desire to buy in to what we're trying to achieve as a team which is a real positive.

"This is the type of signing that shows our ambition and commitment to getting out of our current predicament, with Anthony giving us a completely different point of attack in an area of the pitch that we've been badly hampered by injury.

"You cannot underestimate someone with the track record and experience Anthony has, and that will be invaluable in such an important stretch of the season.

"He'll be getting involved with training straight away, and we'll hope to have him up to speed and available as soon as possible."

It feels crucial that the Terriers improve their squad this month, and Head of Football Operations Leigh Bromby was very pleased to get the Frenchman over the line, quotes provided by the club's website.

He said: "Anthony possesses the type of individual talent that is a rare find, so we're absolutely delighted to have him with us for the remainder of the season.

"He has a proven track record at this level and a real hunger to contribute in England again, so that ticks a lot of boxes for us.

"This is the type of signing we hope can give the Club a real lift both on and off the field, with his high profile earned through countless memorable goals and performances that we hope will continue with our shirt on his back.

"He gives us something completely different in the final third whilst complimenting who we are and what we want to be as a team, so there is a real excitement to see how he can contribute between now and the end of the season."

It is not over until it is over, and though Huddersfield have appeared dead and buried at times this season, Knockaert is the kind of player who could spark optimism amongst the supporter base as the season progresses.

The Verdict
Knockaert's last season and a half would suggest that his career is winding down, and it would have been disappointing for all parties for the winger to only pick up nine league appearances in his Greek Super League loan spell at Volos in the first half of this term.

The 31-year-old is out of contract at Craven Cottage in the summer, and it seems very unlikely that Marco Silva will look to extend that deal with the Cottagers appearing set to maintain their top-flight status.

It could be now or never again for Knockaert to prove his worth in the Championship, and his experience competing towards the top end of the division should aid the blend of ages and personalities at Fotheringham's disposal.

The Terriers' attacking contingent should benefit from Knockaert's presence, especially if he can re-adapt to second tier level quickly.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/huddersfield-town-key-figures-issues-message-on-signing-of-fulham-man/

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Fulham now 'close to agreeing deal' with £10m star at Craven Cottage

Fulham are "close" to agreeing on a new contract for Jamaica forward Bobby Decordova-Reid, extending his deal at Craven Cottage beyond the summer of 2024, transfer insider Dean Jones has told GiveMeSport.

Head coach Marco Silva will now be hoping the attack-minded player can help his side continue to overachieve in the Premier League this season.

Fulham contract news – Bobby Decordova-Reid
Last week, Fulham confirmed that the one-year extension clauses in both Tosin Adarabioyo and Decordova-Reid's contracts had been activated, meaning that the pair's future at Craven Cottage has now been secured until the summer of 2024.

The extensions will have come as a relief to the Cottagers faithful, who would have worried that both players may have had to be sold for a cut-price fee this summer unless new deals could be reached.

Decordova-Reid – who has previously been dubbed as "immense" by the club's former boss Scott Parker – signed permanently for the west London side for £10m in January 2020, having initially arrived on a season-long loan deal the previous summer.

Jones has recently told GiveMeSport that Liverpool could look to sign one of Fulham's star players in midfielder João Palhinha this summer, in what will come as concerning news to fans of the Craven Cottage outfit.

But the journalist's update on an imminent new deal for Decordova-Reid will bring optimism to the Fulham faithful, who have watched their side surge into seventh spot in the Premier League following promotion from the Championship last season.

What has Jones said about Fulham and Decordova-Reid?
Jones told GiveMeSport: "Fulham are close to agreeing on a new deal with Bobby Decordova-Reid. It's a real compliment to a player who has raised his game with every challenge put in front of him. He's become a very solid Premier League footballer and they are rewarding him for that."

How has Decordova-Reid performed this season?
Decordova-Reid has played both on the right and left-wing in the Premier League so far this season, scoring four goals and providing one assist, as per Transfermarkt.

The 17-cap Jamaica star is also key in a defensive sense as well as providing numbers in the final third of the pitch, having made 1.5 tackles and one clearance per 90 minutes in the top flight this season, according to Sofascore.

Therefore, Fulham fans will be delighted that one of their key components, in what has been an extremely successful campaign so far, has secured his long-term future at Craven Cottage.



https://www.givemesport.com/88103647-fulham-bobby-decordova-reid-contract-news-marco-silva-premier-league-craven-cottage

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Fulham set to offer Silva new deal
Fulham are ready to offer manager Marco Silva a new contract after he masterminded their magnificent start to the Premier League, according to the Daily Mail.

The Portuguese head coach has followed a season of success in the Championship – where the Whites won the title in his first campaign at Craven Cottage – by surpassing all expectations to lead the Whites to seventh place on their return to the top flight. Fulham, considered relegation certainties in the summer, head into tomorrow's SW6 derby ahead of Chelsea and the the club's hierarchy are keen to extend Silva's contract – with a number of potentially attractive jobs poised to be become available at the end of this season.

Negotiations between Silva, his representatives and the club have yet to commence but the head coach has been made aware of Fulham's intention to reward him with a new deal. The Cottagers are keen to tie down the former Everton, Hull and Watford head coach on a long-term basis before the end of this season to remove any uncertainty about Silva's future. It is understood that the 45 year-old is keen to commit his future to Fulham as he is enjoying making his mark on the Premier League and he retains a strong working relationship with both the Khan family and Alistair Mackintosh, Fulham's chief executive.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/fulham-set-to-offer-silva-new-deal/

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The set-piece kings! Fulham are FLYING back in the Premier League thanks to Marco Silva's clever dead-ball routines... no team have scored from more this season, with HOURS of work on the training ground paying off

    Fulham have been the Premier League's set-piece kings so far this season
    Marco Silva's side are set to take on west London rivals Chelsea on Thursday
    The Blues must be wary of the threat their neighbours pose from dead balls
    No Premier League team have scored from more set-pieces than Fulham (14)
    Club insiders are surprised at how difficult it is proving for sides to stop them

Luis Boa Morte was on the pitch the last time Fulham beat Chelsea, scoring the winner at Craven Cottage in 2006.

On Thursday night, he will be in the dugout alongside manager Marco Silva, the mastermind of Fulham's thriving Premier League campaign, plotting a repeat victory as part of the home side's coaching staff.

Fulham sit proudly in seventh as the top team in west London, two points ahead of Brentford and three clear of Chelsea. There is genuine optimism about their chances of overcoming their big-spending neighbours on Thursday night and also about their prospects for the rest of this season.


Luis Boa Morte was on hand with the winner the last time Fulham beat Chelsea back in 2006


On Thursday night Boa Morte will be in the dugout as Marco Silva's side plot a repeat victory

Silva is described as personable and popular with the players he is getting the best out of, and meticulous, intricate and detailed in his approach. 'His work ethic is second to none,' said one source.

That is encapsulated in Fulham's set-piece prowess. No team have scored more than their 14, including penalties, or 10 without. They spend hours in training working through their routines in detail described by another source as 'to the millimetre'.

The repertoire is supposedly small and there is surprise within the club that, despite the low number of routines and the level of preparation opposing teams can do, few seem able to stop them.


Fulham sit in seventh as the top team in west London after a superb first half of the season


No team has scored more goals from set-pieces than the Cottagers (14) so far this season


Silva is said to put his players through hours of dead-ball routines on the training ground

Southampton lost 2-1 at Fulham on New Year's Eve after conceding two set-piece goals and manager Nathan Jones said: 'We showed the players the exact same set-play 10 times. It is not something that has happened off the cuff as Fulham do it week in, week out.'

Silva is not getting carried away. Instead, he is a firm believer in the one game at a time mantra. So much so that given the chance to ease his Friday workload by holding the preview press conference for Sunday's visit to Newcastle straight after Chelsea's visit, Silva's preference was that it takes place first thing tomorrow. Today is only about Chelsea.

Appointed as Scott Parker's successor in July 2021, Silva inherited a squad low on morale after a second Premier League relegation in three seasons. The tone was set in his first meeting with the players, targetting promotion back to the top flight as champions.

Belief, the feelgood factor and connection with their supporters began to return to Fulham as positive results arrived and a record-breaking campaign — including a new second-tier high 43 goals for Aleksandar Mitrovic — led to that promotion. Unlike the previous two times Fulham went up, the positive momentum has continued.



Silva was keen to ensure they built on last season and stuck to the principles he had instilled while maintaining the same attitude and hunger. Keeping as much of his squad together was another important factor for Silva and Fulham's recruitment on top of that has been key.

Following their previous two promotions they got it wrong. In 2018, more than £100million was spent in a scattergun spree, predominantly on players without major Premier League experience and including a raft of arrivals in a frantic final week of the window.

Two years later, there were more loans than permanent signings and, once again, without significant top-flight experience.

This season has seen less upheaval. Knowing for a long time that Fulham were going up they and Silva had more time to plan. He was forthright in the areas he wanted to strengthen his squad and worked willingly with chief executive Alistair Mackintosh and director of football operations Tony Khan to get players not just with the right qualities but character and price tag.

Their analytical model still shapes recruitment but, sources insist, it is not a deal breaker if all boxes are not ticked.

Fulham opted to evolve rather than overhaul their team, with only a handful of summer signings emerging as regulars. Bernd Leno, Issa Diop, Joao Palhinha and Andreas Pereira have strengthened Fulham's spine. Willian has shown there is still Premier League life left in him after his ill-fated spell at Arsenal.


Fulham will now hope to continue their incredible rise against their neighbours on Thursday

Goalkeeper Leno at £3m and midfielder Palhinha at £17m are examples of the value Fulham have found. The new faces have complemented Silva's existing squad, raising the level of his side and their team-mates.

Getting the best out of Mitrovic is another main focus. Persuaded to stay by Khan after an unhappy campaign in 2021, Mitrovic has thrived under Silva. In just 15 games, the striker has already equalled his best top-flight tally of 11 goals. It took him 37 games to hit that mark in 2018-19.

He is suspended for Chelsea's visit, with Carlos Vinicius a likely replacement but 'we have other solutions as well' Silva teased on Wednesday. That should not be in doubt. The last 18 months and Fulham's eye-catching top-flight return have proved Silva is a man with a plan.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11624861/Fulham-Premier-League-set-piece-kings-Marco-Silvas-clever-dead-ball-routines-paying-off.html