Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 08/02/23...

[WhiteJC]

We always want more – Marco Silva focused on firing Fulham through in FA Cup
The Cottagers are flying high in the Premier League and looking to reach the last 16 in the cup.


Marco Silva wants to see more from Fulham in their FA Cup replay against Sunderland (John Walton/PA)
(PA Wire)

Marco Silva "wants more" from his Fulham side despite them sitting eighth in the Premier League and facing Sunderland in an FA Cup fourth-round replay.

The newly promoted Cottagers held Chelsea to a goalless Premier League draw at Stamford Bridge last Friday and have avoided any risk of relegation so far, sitting above the likes of the Blues and Liverpool as Silva looks to build on a positive first half of the season.

Silva said: "We want more, we always want more. We had a very good game last Friday, we analysed the game against a very good side and I think (it was) a proper derby the way we played and the way Chelsea played as well but we wanted more from that game."

Victory in Wednesday's cup replay on Wearside would see Fulham play Leeds in the last 16 of the FA Cup, a competition Silva takes very seriously.

He said: "I really respect the competition. I had the chance to win the competition in Portugal, I played the final in Greece as well and I know what (it) means this competition, for all the clubs and for us."

Tom Cairney's equaliser secured Fulham a 1-1 draw in last week's game against Sunderland as Silva looks to improve on their display at Craven Cottage.

Silva said: "We want (to) always (do) much more things that we did in the game before.

"Sunderland, they have the quality, they have some young lads (who are) really dangerous in the attack line as well, they can punish you if you are not at your best level.

"From the first mistake they score, of course after we took control of the game like it was our obligation, some chances we created but every time you are creating chances we gave some moments for them to create as well and (that is) something clear we have to improve if we want to go through in this competition."

Silva will not be on the touchline for Wednesday's replay at the Stadium of Light after picking up his fourth yellow card at Stamford Bridge to earn a one-match suspension.



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/marco-silva-fulham-premier-league-sunderland-liverpool-b2277754.html

[WhiteJC]

Sunderland can pose a threat to Fulham even without a striker insists Tony Mowbray

Sunderland take on Fulham in the FA Cup on Wearside tonight, but Tony Mowbray has no specialist striker available

Sunderland need not fear going into tonight's FA Cup replay against Fulham without a specialist striker, according to boss Tony Mowbray. The Black Cats take on the Premier League high-fliers at the Stadium of Light this evening after the initial fourth round meeting at Craven Cottage ten days ago ended in a 1-1 draw, with the winners earning a home tie against Leeds United in the last 16.

Mowbray has no out-and-out centre-forward to call upon, with top scorer Ross Stewart suffering a season-ending Achilles injury at the Cottage while on-loan Leeds striker Joe Gelhardt is cup-tied. But he takes heart from the fact that, even after Stewart had gone off at Fulham, Sunderland created a series of chances against Marco Silva's men on a day when the attacking triumvirate of Amad, Patrick Roberts, and Jack Clarke came to the fore.

Sunderland will likely rely on them for goals tonight, although fit-again midfielder Alex Pritchard - who played as a false nine earlier in the season - may also come into the equation after he made his comeback from a calf injury as a sub in Saturday's league draw at Millwall. "I think it's a given that we give everything we have got in every game, and we are on the front foot trying to play positive, possession-based football," said Mowbray.

"It's not always easy to play possession-based football against a top Premier League side, but the positive for me from the first game is that we tried to be positive and play through them, not just kick it down the pich and look for scraps. I thought we were really progressive with the ball in the first game, and yet we felt their quality when they had the ball.

"The positive for me was that we threatened their goal and could actually get through them by being brave and playing with Patrick and playing with Amad and Jack. It was frustrating when Ross came off for us because we lost that real cutting edge at the top end of the pitch that can score a goal out of nothing.

"But it was the attitude of the team more than any individual players that was the positive on the day. We played without fear.

"The fact we got a goal, of course, gave us something to hang on to. If we'd been a goal or two down, sometimes it can be more difficult to believe in playing on the front foot and getting after the ball.

"We'll try and be aggressive right from the off and get the first goal so we have something to cling to, and hopefully we will have a really good evening."

Sunderland will be able to call upon the versatile Luke O'Nien this evening now he has served a three-match ban following his red card against Swansea City last month. But new signings Isaac Lihadji and Joe Anderson will not be involved because they were not eligible for the initial tie.

Should Sunderland progress, however, former Lille forward Lihadji and ex-Everton defender Anderson would be able to play in the next round against Leeds.

Defender Dennis Cirkin is also unable to play this evening as he must follow the concussion protocols after being knocked out as he scored Sunderland's equaliser at Millwall at the weekend.



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-can-pose-threat-fulham-26181505

[WhiteJC]

Roker Report Score Predictions 2022-23: FA Cup Rd 4 Replay - Sunderland vs Fulham

What will the score be this evening when Sunderland resume battle against Premier League top eight opposition in the FA Cup?

Last time out... Millwall 1 Sunderland 1 (EFL Championship)
Here we are at match day again, this time readying for a midweek FA cup replay against Fulham, at home in front of the red and white faithful, and on the Beeb no less!

The lads did incredibly well to extend their unbeaten run to 3 games on Saturday, after the Championship away game ended in a draw at Millwall. A brave second half header from Cirkin, which apparently knocked him clean out for a brief moment, got us back on even terms after a very odd chip into the top corner from a sat-down Millwall player by the name of Cooper. How he pulled that one out of the barrel, we will never know...

Who knows what changes the gaffer will make tonight. He will probably be looking to compete so we can hopefully progress to play Leeds in round 5 (also confirmed to be on TV), but will likely also be looking to ensure we return to league action against Reading at the weekend with the best players and options possible.

What ever the outcome this evening, most fans are already very proud to be SAFC supporters given how we have taken this event to 2 legs against a team competing for European football next season should they carry on with their form as they are.

The football we play is admired far and wide, to the point where teams like Millwall try to stop that rather than beat us at it. With a good show tonight, this team will learn and grow even more.

The predictions were quite optimistic for the trip to The Den (maybe a little more so than was warranted, given the strong Millwall home record), as can be seen below.



The only pundit taking any points from Saturday was Bomber, who got one point for rightly calling a 1-1 draw. Nobody forecasted Dennis Cirkin rising like a salmon for that header (nor dropping like a sack of spuds, poor beggar), so no points for anyone in terms of first player to move the onion bag in our favour.

Predictions League Table - after Millwall away
Bomber makes 4th place all his own with his sole point taking him clear of Malc. No change elsewhere in the league, as most of the lads backed a win for us, with either Gelhardt (who had a decent first half for me) or Amad (who was maybe never going to have a massive game in such a tight and physical encounter) to score first.



Had Paddy Roberts scored after that wonderful mazy run, then Malc may have stayed level with Bomber, but then we stood more chance of scoring if he passed, in the view of most fans we speak to.

How the points are awarded...

Just a quick reminder on how we allocate points to our match-by-match predictions:

    Correct score = 3 points
    Correct outcome (but not correct score) = 1 point
    Correct first Sunderland goalscorer = 1 point (no goal scorer is a valid call)
    Possible deductions for being lazy and not submitting on time = TBC at Malc's discretion...

Malc Dugdale predicts...

    Score Prediction: Sunderland 1 - Fulham 0

    Sunderland's first goalscorer: Jack Clarke

This should have been the final score in the first leg for me, and for us to almost pull off that result away from home and with no striker for about 75 mins is proper progress, as many have pointed out.

The last time Fulham won away in the league was a couple of days into 2023, against Leicester City. They did well to get a draw away at Chelsea last Friday, and they lost away to the Mags mid last month. They did win away in the FA cup at Hull one week into the new year, but the 2-0 win flattered them as they only scored the second in the 94th minute.

Jack Clarke will be in his element in this type of game on a decent pitch and playing football rather than "who can kick their opponent in the air the most".

I'm backing Jack to score in the second half and Patto to have another blinder and keep us a clean one.

I'm up from the east of England to visit family and I am going to this one, so as a minimum I hope it is a good game and we come out of it well - if not with a win, with pride, and with more ideas about how we see this Championship campaign out without our Rossco.

Matty Foster predicts...

    Score Prediction: Sunderland 1 - Fulham 0

    Sunderland's first goalscorer: Amad Diallo

I'm an absolute sucker for the FA Cup and would love for us to progress tonight.

Who doesn't love a cup upset? Provided you're not on the wrong end of one, of course!

We've not faired well in the competition for some time, and I would love to see us rectify that.

Replays have not been our forte in recent years, however, the last time we were successful in one was in fact checks notes, against tonight's opponents!

I'm going to allow my positivity to cloud my judgement and back a narrow 1-0 victory to the lads. Then onwards to a tasty tie against dirty Leeds!

Bomber Davies predicts...

    Score Prediction: Sunderland 0 - Fulham 2

    Sunderland's first goalscorer: No SAFC scorer

Similar to others, I think we had our big chance last week. It's quite rare that you see the Premier League club "get away with it" in the first tie, only to come unstuck in the replay.

The team in the lower division is less of a surprise the second time round and more focused Fulham minds will know how to use their Premier League pace and power to combat us.

That said, there is a small twinkling light of hope that Marco Silva's men have their eye on a tricky fixture against a resurgent Nottingham Forest three days later.

Europe is still on the cards for them and with Brighton, Brentford and Wolves coming up, they might just not fancy a visit from Leeds in the middle of all that.

On the basis that I think Mitrovic, Pereira, Willian all start, I think Fulham may do a professional job on us.

Martin Wanless predicts...

    Score Prediction: Sunderland 1 - Fulham 1 (SAFC to progress on Penalties)

    Sunderland's first goalscorer: Luke O'Nien

I'm actually not too confident about this one – I think we had our chance down at Craven Cottage and just couldn't get it over the line – but I'm going out on a limb with my first goalscorer prediction...

I think it's more likely Pritchard will come into the starting XI in place of the cup-tied Gelhardt, but I would love to see Luke O'Nien given a run out up front – what's there to lose?

He's got the physique, the work rate and can finish. It's the type of game to try something different, so I'm taking a flyer that O'Nien gets out goal in a hard-fought draw – and we win on penalties!

Will Jones predicts...

    Score Prediction: Sunderland 1 - Fulham 2

    Sunderland's first goalscorer: Patrick Roberts

After a top notch game in the big smoke, the lads finally return to the north east for a game under the lights.

Even without an out and out striker, I am full of belief in this squad to show what they are made of and attack with the full force of the city behind them.

The lads have gone from strength to strength with so much to deal with, this is just another step.

Although I have put us going out, I believe that us scoring and playing well against a top prem team after taking them to a replay, all without a striker, is admirable.

I hope I'm wrong!

Jack Howe-Gingell predicts...

    Score Prediction: Sunderland 1 - 0

    Sunderland's first goalscorer: Amad Diallo

We matched Fulham last time and I'm confident we can do it again.

It'll be interesting to see if they throw more first teamers at us after getting a major scare at Craven Cottage.

I think we have enough quality to do damage but we will need to be wary of Fulham's quality. They play similarly to us but can actually draw upon legitimate strikers which will aid their cause.

I'll back us for the upset.



https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/2023/2/8/23589087/roker-report-score-predictions-2022-23-fa-cup-rd-4-replay-sunderland-vs-fulham

[WhiteJC]

Ambitious Marco Silva always looking for more from his in-form Fulham side
Marco Silva "wants more" from his Fulham side despite them sitting eighth in the Premier League and facing Sunderland in an FA Cup fourth-round replay.

The newly promoted Cottagers held Chelsea to a goalless Premier League draw at Stamford Bridge last Friday and have avoided any risk of relegation so far, sitting above the likes of the Blues and Liverpool as Silva looks to build on a positive first half of the season.

Silva said: "We want more, we always want more. We had a very good game last Friday, we analysed the game against a very good side and I think (it was) a proper derby the way we played and the way Chelsea played as well but we wanted more from that game."

Victory in Wednesday's cup replay on Wearside would see Fulham play Leeds in the last 16 of the FA Cup, a competition Silva takes very seriously.

He said: "I really respect the competition. I had the chance to win the competition in Portugal, I played the final in Greece as well and I know what (it) means this competition, for all the clubs and for us."

Tom Cairney's equaliser secured Fulham a 1-1 draw in last week's game against Sunderland as Silva looks to improve on their display at Craven Cottage.

Silva said: "We want (to) always (do) much more things that we did in the game before.

"Sunderland, they have the quality, they have some young lads (who are) really dangerous in the attack line as well, they can punish you if you are not at your best level.

"From the first mistake they score, of course after we took control of the game like it was our obligation, some chances we created but every time you are creating chances we gave some moments for them to create as well and (that is) something clear we have to improve if we want to go through in this competition."

Silva will not be on the touchline for Wednesday's replay at the Stadium of Light after picking up his fourth yellow card at Stamford Bridge to earn a one-match suspension.



https://www.planetsport.com/soccer/news/ambitious-marco-silva-always-looking-form-fulham-side

[WhiteJC]

Fulham predicted XI vs Sunderland as Silva has selection decisions to make - gallery

A look ahead to Fulham's trip to the North East to face Tony Mowbray's side

Fulham have a break from Premier League action tonight as they make the long trip up to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland in their FA Cup replay. A home tie against Leeds United in the fifth round awaits the winner of this evening's clash.

The pair drew 1-1 in the original game, with Tom Cairney scoring an equaliser for the Cottagers. Marco Silva used that game to rest a few players and has the chance to do so again.

Here is a look at the starting XI that Fulham could start with against the Black Cats as they eye cup progression...

1. GK: Marek Rodak
He has been used in the cup this season by Fulham.

2. RB: Kenny Tete
Recent signing Cedric Soares can't play tonight.

3. CB: Tosin Adarabioyo
He was linked with a move away in January but ended up staying put.

4. CB: Shane Duffy
His move from Brighton and Hove Albion has now been made permanent.

5. LB: Layvin Kurzawa
He scored in the cup win over Hull City in the third round.

6. CM: Joao Palhinha
The summer signing started against Sunderland in the original tie.

7. CM: Tom Cairney
The midfielder scored the goal that sent this clash to a replay.

8. RW: Harry Wilson
The Wales international has made 13 league appearances this term.

9. CAM: Andreas Pereira
He has been a regular since his move from Manchester United.

10. LW: Manor Solomon
Silva could opt to start him again against the Black Cats, with Dan James another option if not.

11. ST: Carlos Vinicius
The former Tottenham Hotspur striker is likely to step in for Aleksandar Mitrovic up top.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-predicted-xi-vs-sunderland-as-silva-has-selection-decisions-to-make-4017875

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva slams touchline ban as Fulham boss vows not to change despite missing FA Cup replay at Sunderland

Several decisions questioned as Silva calls for refereeing consistency

Fulham will be without their most-prized asset tonight when they visit Sunderland in their FA Cup fourth-round replay.

Manager Marco Silva will have to watch from the stands after he picked up his fourth yellow card of the season in Friday's 0-0 draw with Chelsea, earning him a touchline ban.

Fulham have been the surprise package this season, particularly when milking their role as the underdogs against the more fancied sides in the Premier League. However, Championship side Sunderland played that part at Craven Cottage a fortnight ago and came away with a draw and a replay.

The Cottagers will be hoping not to allow Sunderland to beat them at their own game again, but Silva's absence leaves a significant hole and for his players it will be an eerie experience not hearing him bark tactical instructions from the sidelines.

Silva said: "Of course it's a blow. It's not a good thing. It will be really strange — something natural. I have to respect it, even if it will not be good for me or our players.

"I don't see one reason to get a yellow card. I was giving instructions to [Aleksandar] Mitrovic and I was 100 per cent sure that I did not deserve that. I knew that I would be out of the next game on the touchline."

Silva implied he feels referees may have it in for his team, noting: "I am the first manager with four yellows this season in the Premier League. Many things for us have been the same. We are the only team in the Premier League with a player who got a yellow card when celebrating with the fans. I think we are the only team that lost one game with two handballs. Many things have happened with us."

After a steady career as a right-back, Silva became manager of Portuguese side Estoril upon retiring from the club in 2011. He first set foot in England in 2017 as manager of Hull City. He went on to coach Watford, Everton, and now Fulham, where he has enjoyed the greatest success. A lot of the best managers are intense people who wear their heart on their sleeve. Silva is certainly that.

"It's difficult to take the emotions from yourself," he reflected. "It's the way you normally behave. It's the way my players see me every single day. We want to see more consistency in the [referees'] decisions."

Silva's coaching staff includes assistant manager Stuart Gray and former Fulham and Portugal winger Luis Boa Morte as first-team coach. The Fulham manager was unwilling to discuss who would deputise for him on the touchline.

"We are a team and have staff, not just one person. I don't need to mention names. For sure there is someone who will take care of it."

Fulham are sitting pretty in eighth place in the Premier League and if they can get past Sunderland tonight they'll have a real chance of putting together a genuine run in this competition, especially considering managerless Leeds United awaits the winner in the fifth round.

"We want to do it," Silva asserted. "The most important thing will be FA Cup for us right now, even if we make changes. It will be tough but we believe in ourselves and of course we have to do our maximum to get to the next round."

Sunderland thought they'd knocked Fulham out when 15-year-old debutant Chris Rigg slammed home before the offside flag went up. They may well need to call again on the youngster courting interest from Newcastle as they have no out-and-out striker fit for the match. Top scorer Ross Stewart is out for the season with an Achilles injury and Joe Gelhardt, on loan from Leeds, is cup-tied.

Fulham will be hoping that gives them the edge, even if Silva is not there to guide them through it.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/marco-silva-touchline-ban-fulham-sunderland-b1058713.html

[WhiteJC]

"I'd have no fear.." – Tony Mowbray makes claim regarding Sunderland player ahead of FA Cup clash

Sunderland welcome Premier League side Fulham to the Stadium of Light tonight for an FA Cup fourth round replay.

In the first game, Sunderland were surprisingly the better side, and the Championship team took an early lead in the game thanks to Jack Clarke.

However, as expected, the Premier League side did fight back in the second half and struck level through Tom Cairney.

That wasn't the end though, as Sunderland thought they had taken a shock lead once again as teenager Chris Rigg had the ball in the back of the net in stoppage time but saw his effort ruled out for offside.

At 15 years old, if that goal stood, it would have made Rigg the youngest goal scorer in the competition. His appearance at Fulham was Rigg's second appearance in the Sunderland first team after his debut came in the same competition in the previous round against Shrewsbury Town.

Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray has already stated that while Rigg won't start tonight's game, he could make his first appearance in front of the home fans off the bench.

Mowbray told The Northern Echo: "I'd have no fear putting him on the pitch again. I've just watched him in training and I wish you could put some of that fire in his belly into some of the other players.

"He gets wellied into everybody, he doesn't bother about reputations, he just gets stuck in and wins tackles, puts his body in, shoots, fights. He plays like the kid in the playground.

"So why not put him on the pitch? He has qualities I really like and I know the supporters will love them too.

"He is still a spindly boy, and we have to be careful of him but I have no worries about him playing because he is not going to be overawed or scared. He's not going to be shy; he will tackle the nearest guy in a white shirt to him, win it off them, drive with the ball and pick a pass. That is what he does.

"Of course, I'm aware how delicate it is with the age situation. He will get dropped in, dropped out, put in, left out. I have spoken to him about that. He is not a first team player at 15, we have lots of young players in front of him that need game time and need to play, but I see qualities in him which can help our team at any given moment."

The Verdict
This is what the FA Cup is all about; moments like these don't happen all the time, but in this competition, dreams seem to come true.

Despite it being Premier League opposition, Mowbray had no worries about throwing Rigg on as he thought he could make an impact off the bench, which he nearly did. So, it is no surprise that he may do the same again tonight, as it provides the Sunderland boss with another opportunity to see the teenager in action.

Mowbray will know he has to be careful with Rigg and protect him, but he has obviously been impressed by what he has seen in the teenager, and if he continues to take his changes in games like tonight, we will probably expect to see more of him.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/id-have-no-fear-tony-mowbray-makes-claim-regarding-sunderland-player-ahead-of-fa-cup-clash/

[WhiteJC]

Brentford (A) Sales Suspended

Due to technical issues with our ticketing provider, we are currently unable to facilitate sales for Fulham's Premier League away fixture vs. Brentford.

Once issues have been resolved an update will be provided to supporters, with revised on sale dates and loyalty points windows, should this be required.

Please note, other fixtures are unaffected and remain available to purchase online. 

We apologise for any inconvenience caused.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/february/08/ticket-office-update/

[WhiteJC]

Tony Mowbray issues confident verdict on Sunderland's game against Fulham

Tony Mowbray has insisted his Sunderland can still pose a threat without a striker when they come up against Premier League Fulham in the FA Cup on Wednesday night.

The Black Cats take on Fulham in their fourth-round replay having drawn 2-2 at Craven Cottage 11 days ago. They will be doing so without a specialist striker after Ross Stewart picked up a season-ending Achilles injury in the reverse fixture.

That's coupled with loanee Joe Gelhardt being cup-tied for the game, leaving Mowbray with limited options.

Mowbray's main cause for optimism is the number of chances his side created after Stewart was taken off in the tie against the Cottagers. Amad Diallo, Patrick Roberts and Jack Clarke caused Fulham plenty of problems, with Mowbray hoping for the same at the Stadium of Light.

Speaking to The Chronicle, Mowbray explained: "It was frustrating when Ross came off for us because we lost that real cutting edge at the top end of the pitch that can score a goal out of nothing.

"But it was the attitude of the team more than any individual players that was the positive on the day. We played without fear.

"We'll try and be aggressive right from the off and get the first goal so we have something to cling to, and hopefully we will have a really good evening."

Sunderland will be boosted by the return of Luke O'Nein after he served the final game of his ban at the weekend. They will however be without Isaac Lihadji and Joe Anderson as both players were not eligible for the original tie.

The lack of options in the final third could cause Mowbray concern, but given the consistency in which Sunderland attack, they will certainly create problems for Fulham.

The Verdict
Being without a striker shouldn't be an issue for Sunderland. Sure, they might struggle without an emphasis in the final third.

But there's enough ability in their attacking players to continue to pose a threat for Fulham, and any other side for that matter.

The issue may come when they need to hold the ball up to progress forwards, or alleviate pressure. That being said, adapting their game to overcome those issues should be an easier solution as time progresses throughout the season.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/tony-mowbray-issues-confident-verdict-on-sunderlands-game-against-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham's Adarabioyo & Rostov's Hadzikadunic Among Inter Milan's Shortlist To Replace Milan Skriniar, Italian Media Report

Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo and Rostov-owned Mallorca defender Dennis Hadzikadunic are among the players being looked at as possible replacements for Milan Skriniar at Inter.

This according to today's print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, who report that the duo have emerged on the radar as serious alternatives to potentially costlier targets.

Inter's search for a defender capable of taking the place of Skriniar on the right side of the defense is now well underway.

The likes of Torino's Perr Schuurs, Atalanta's Girogio Scalvini, and Bayern Munich's Benjamin Pavard are all among the Nerazzurri's main defensive targets, but questions remain about whether or not they would be attainable, particularly on a financial level.

Accordingly, the club are looking at all possible opportunities, and the likes of Adarabioyo and Hadzikadunic are two of the names who they are most serious about at this stage, according to Tuttosport.

Meanwhile, young Lille defender Tiago Djalo remains a target to replace Skriniar, having already been linked during the January transfer window.



https://sempreinter.com/2023/02/08/fulhams-adarabioyo-rostovs-hadzikadunic-among-inter-milans-shortlist-to-replace-milan-skriniar-italian-media-report/

[WhiteJC]

Sunderland must unleash Jewison Bennette vs Fulham

Sunderland return to FA Cup action this evening as Tony Mowbray's side host Fulham in the fourth round of the competition at the Stadium of Light.

The two teams have been forced to contest a replay after the initial tie ended in a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage, with the winner of tonight's clash going through to the fifth round.

Mowbray's men head into this clash with a Premier League side off the back of a 1-1 draw with Millwall in their last outing in the Championship.

The Black Cats are also back in action in the second tier of English football on Saturday as they host Reading on Wearside, which could influence the manager's selections for this game against Fulham.

Mowbray could rest a couple of his key players in order to avoid burnout and further injuries heading into the second half of the campaign, after already losing Ross Stewart and Corry Evans for the rest of the season.

One change the manager could make is dropping Jack Clarke to the bench in order to unleash 18-year-old winger Jewison Bennette from the start.

Clarke has started 27 Championship matches and was in the XI for the initial draw with the Cottagers but could be handed a rest ahead of the weekend.

If the former Tottenham man is given an opportunity to take a breather tonight, Mowbray must bring Bennette into the team in his place as the exciting young forward has shown promise at times.

Earlier this season, the Black Cats head coach hailed the gem's style of play, saying: "He's very fast and direct, and is one of those electric players that gets people out of their seats.

"If he skips past that first challenge, he's off and you're not catching him."

The attacker is someone who can excite supporters with his dynamic play out wide. He has completed six dribbles and scored one goal in 193 minutes of Championship action this season, which shows that the teenager is a direct player who likes to take defenders on with the ball.

Bennette, who has been directly involved in two goals in four U21 appearances for Sunderland, has only started once in all competitions for the senior side and this replay could be his big opportunity to shine and show Mowbray that he deserves more minutes in the coming months.

Therefore, the Black Cats manager must unleash the Costa Rica international from the start tonight as it would allow Clarke a rest ahead of the match against Reading, whilst also exciting supporters and giving the young wizard a chance to impress.



https://www.footballfancast.com/sunderland-afc-news/sunderland-bennette-fulham-championship-fa-cup-mowbray

[WhiteJC]

FulView for January 2023

Before we get into the review of Fulham's January, let's take a moment to thank January's site sponsor: @sacffc

Where Fulham Started January:
25 Points
7th Place

January Record: 2W 2L 0D
3 GF, 3 GA
Points Per Match: 1.5 (1.5 for the Season)

Where Fulham Ended January:
31 Points
7th Place

A five game win streak came to an end in mid-January, but Fulham is still 7th in the League and still playing in the FA Cup. Fulham saw off Leicester before achieving one of their most memorable victories ever when they beat Chelsea 2-1 at Craven Cottage. It was a spectacular team performance that earned three points against their West London rivals for the first time in 17 years. The memory of that victory is still pretty sweet despite narrow losses to Newcastle and Tottenham and a draw against Sunderland in the FA Cup.

As Fulham heads into the second half of the season, they are clearly on track to reach safety and can entertain other ideas like making a deeper run in the FA Cup and possibly finishing high enough for European play. However, one thing has been weighing on me that makes me a little concerned that Fulham can't keep up the current pace. Of the 15 red cards handed out this year, Fulham as been the beneficiary in four of them - 27%! Three of those helped Fulham get wins against Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace - the last two being the only matches where Fulham won by more than a goal. No team has played against 10 men more than Fulham and they are unlikely to continue that fortunate run over the rest of the season. Fulham certainly had a shot to win all of those matches without the man advantage, but I do worry that the red card advantages combined with the many close wins, has brought Fulham unsustainable success.

It must be said though, that after the ups and downs of the past 10 years feeling consistently good about Fulham is unfamiliar and I may just be looking for excuses to bring myself down a little!

Fulham did have a pretty good transfer window - no key players were lost and the most immediate needs, except possibly another striker option, were taken care of. Fulham will need everyone ready to go as they play 5 matches in the short month of February.



https://fulhamusa.com/threads/fulview-for-january-2023.10405/

[WhiteJC]

Sunderland: Tony Mowbray gives Alex Pritchard injury update before Fulham

Sunderland midfielder Alex Pritchard will be unlikely to play from the start against Fulham, Tony Mowbray has confirmed.

The Lowdown: Repeated injuries
Pritchard was initially ruled out with a calf injury in mid-December, and he returned to the match-day squad for the 4-1 win against Wigan Athletic at the end of the month, with Mowbray bringing him on in the second half.

That decision backfired, however, with the midfielder having to be withdrawn minutes later, and he was not included in the squad for the next three Championship matches, before returning off the bench against Millwall last time out.

The Latest: Update from Mowbray
The playmaker made an immediate impact on his return, weighing in with an assist in the 1-1 draw, but the Sunderland boss has indicated that tonight's game will be too soon for him to start, saying:

"I'm not sure Pritch is ready to be thrown in and play as a false nine or No.10,"

"We have to look at the players we've got. Whether we play Amad a bit higher up the pitch...we'll see. I don't want to sit here and tell Fulham what our team is going to be. We'll have a team that hopefully is very competitive and the fans who come to watch will see a Sunderland team fighting for every ball."

The Verdict: Caution needed
Given what happened last time the 29-year-old was rushed back, it is wise for Mowbray to be more cautious this time around, especially considering how vital a player he has been for Sunderland this season.

Hailed as 'dynamite' by journalist Josh Bunting, the Englishman is ranked by Sofascore as the Black Cats' joint-second best performing player in the Championship, averaging a match rating of 7.03, after picking up two goals and four assists in the second tier.

Furthermore, while progression in the FA Cup is always the aim, it will not be Sunderland's main focus this season, with promotion still a real possibility, currently two points off the top six, and Pritchard should be rested until Saturday's home game against Reading.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/sunderland-afc-news/alex-pritchard-injury-news-fulham-update/

[WhiteJC]

Brighton receive welcome selection boost over January signing ahead of Crystal Palace and Fulham

The 19-year-old joined Brighton just over a week ago from Swedish side AIK on a deal that runs until the summer of 2027 and now he is available for selection for the Seagulls

January signing Yasin Ayari is available for selection for Brighton in the second half of the season after securing a work permit, Sussex Live understands.

The 19-year-old joined the Albion just over a week ago from Swedish side AIK on a deal that runs until the summer of 2027. At the time of the announcement, the Seagulls said the move was 'subject to international clearance'.

The Swedish international, who reportedly joined for a fee believed to be in the region of £5million, had his first training session with the Sussex outfit on Tuesday and many fans on social media wondered if he could make his debut against bitter rivals Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Now, Sussex Live understands the teenager, who is rated as one of Sweden's brightest young prospects, has secured international clearance and a work permit to play in the English top-flight. Whether he makes the squad for Palace remains to be seen.

Ayari, who scored six goals in 48 games for his old team, believes he can fit in well at Brighton, who play Fulham on February 18 and then Stoke City in the FA Cup on February 28, as he thinks Roberto De Zerbi's style of play suits him.

"I am comfortable with the ball, I work hard and run a lot," he told Brighton's website after joining the club. "Brighton beat a big club in Liverpool on Sunday (January 29), even though they made a few changes from the game before. They played really well and it was a joy to watch.

"I like the way Brighton play. To get into the team I need to do my best on and off the pitch. I know that I am a good player, but now I need to prove myself. I love the way the team plays under Roberto [De Zerbi], it's a style that suits me – short passing, keeping possession with a focus on creating chances, and through that you win games."



https://www.sussexlive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/brighton-january-crystal-palace-fulham-8125074

[WhiteJC]

Selection Dilemmas Ahead of FA Cup Replay

Sunderland face Fulham in tonight's FA Cup fourth-round replay. Both managers have selection dilemmas ahead of the tie with upcoming league fixtures in the back of their minds. The winners will be at home to Leeds United and for Sunderland, this gives the game an extra incentive. 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the Black Cats' famous FA Cup final victory over the then-mighty Leeds in 1973.

Both Managers Have Selection Dilemmas Ahead of FA Cup Replay

Important League Fixtures Upcoming
Both Sunderland and Fulham will have one eye on this weekends league fixtures while thinking about their team for the FA Cup replay. Sunderland face Reading at the Stadium of Light with three important points up for grabs. The Black Cats are currently ninth in the Championship but just two points off the playoff positions and six points off third.

Fulham are flying high in the Premier League right now, lying eighth in the table and are currently on course to challenge for a European place. They face Nottingham Forest on Saturday who will be hoping to create more distance between themselves and the relegations places.

Sunderland Selection Dilemmas
Sunderland go into the FA Cup replay without a recognised striker. With Ross Stewart out for the season and new loan signing Joe Gelhardt cup-tied, Tony Mowbray has a decision to make on how to play the game. However, Mowbray is in a similar position to earlier this season when he was forced to play several games without a striker.

The Sunderland head coach spoke in the lead-up to the game about he will approach the cup replay. He said: "We'll have to make some decisions in terms of the selection for the team, with half an eye on a league match against Reading at home this weekend that we have to try and target to get the three points. It's just about getting the balance – how much can you go to the well with the same group of players every match?

"We're in a period now where we potentially have a midweek game every week this month, with a squad where we will have a 15-year-old on the bench again and maybe a couple of 17-year-olds as well.

"It's a great game for these young lads to go and show where they are, and see if we can repeat the consistency of the first game where we gave a really good account for themselves."

Team News
Dennis Cirkin will miss the game as he continues to follow concussion protocols after being knocked out while scoring the equaliser at Millwall on Saturday. Alex Pritchard is back in contention after making his comeback from injury as a substitute also at Millwall. Fan favourite Luke O'Nien is also available for selection after completing his three-game suspension.

New signings Joe Anderson and Isaac Lihadji are unable to feature as they were not registered in time for the original tie at Craven Cottage but Pierre Ekwah is available.

Fulham Selection Dilemmas
Fulham boss Marco Silva is suspended tonight and will not be allowed on the bench. A fourth yellow card of the season against Chelsea means he will have to watch this game from the stands. On the pitch, Silva has decisions to make.

Seven changes were made for the first game; however, with Fulham in eighth place in the Premier League with little chance of being in a relegation fight, Silva may see this as a chance to get to at least the latter stages of the FA Cup.

Team News
Fulham have no new injury worries although Neeskens Kebano remains sidelined.

During his press conference, Silva said that the team he picks for the replay at Sunderland will be the best players for the game. He said: "Let's see how many [changes] we are going to do. As you know, we are going to play on Wednesday evening, and we have Nottingham Forest Saturday, 3pm.

"Of course, as always, we look for the next match as the most important one, and the FA Cup is our focus, but we have to think at the same time about the next one. It has been a busy period, some of the players have been playing many, many games since Boxing Day, and we have to take care of it.

"But it will be a decision that I have to take, and the most important [game] for us will be the FA Cup right now, even if you make changes or not. The players that start the game, they will be the best players for the game.

"First, we have to reach the same type of motivation, the same type of enthusiasm, know how [Sunderland] are going to play. And we have to play our game, it doesn't matter if you make many changes or not, we have to play our game. We have to be Fulham Football Club, play to our strengths and play to win the football match.

"It will be difficult, like all the ties in the FA Cup. I think the game against them at home was a good example. But we have to do better than the last game."



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2023/02/08/selection-dilemmas-ahead-of-fa-cup/

[WhiteJC]

Brentford (A) Ticket Update

Following a period of technical issues, tickets for Fulham's away fixture against Brentford on Monday 6th March (8pm) are now back on sale.

The sales windows for this fixture have not been affected and will continue to resume as below:

ON SALE DATES

RELEASE DATE	SUPPORTER CRITERIA
Wednesday 8th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 900 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Thursday 9th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 800 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Friday 10th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 700 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Monday 13th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 600 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Tuesday 14th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 500 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Wednesday 15th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 400 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Thursday 16th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 300 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Friday 17th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 200 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Monday 20th February, 10am	Season Ticket Holders with 100 points or more - 1 ticket per person
Tuesday 21st February, 10am	All 2022/23 Season Ticket Holders - 1 ticket per person
Wednesday 22nd February, 10am	All 2022/23 Members - 1 ticket per person
Thursday 23rd February, 10am	Supporters with Previous Booking History - 1 ticket per person

For further information on this matchday please click here.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/february/08/brentford-ticket-update/

[WhiteJC]

U21s v Fulham - All You Need To Know   

West Ham United U21s v Fulham U21s
Premier League 2 Division 1, Rush Green Stadium, Friday 10 February, 7pm

Against Fulham on Friday evening, West Ham United U21s are looking for a second consecutive Premier League 2 victory.

Although the Irons lost 2-1 to Monaco in the Premier League International Cup last time out, they have still won five of their last seven matches. The 3-2 win over Chelsea in their last league game will also give them confidence.

Here is everything you need to know ahead of Friday's London derby...

Tickets...
Admittance is free for West Ham United Season Ticket Holders. Proof of Season Ticket status must be shown upon entry to Rush Green Stadium.

Tickets can also be purchased on the door, priced at £5 for Adults and £1 for U16s. Gates will open an hour before kick-off.

Fans wishing to attend Friday's U21s fixture by car should note that parking at Rush Green Stadium, situated at West Ham United's first-team training ground, is extremely limited and cannot be guaranteed. The postcode for Rush Green Stadium is RM7 0LU.

Supporters using public transport are advised to check their journeys before travel, with resources such as TfL's Journey Planner or the TfL Go app helping to plan your journey.

Supporters may also wish to visit the National Rail website to plan their journey if traveling on the rail network.

How To Follow...Travel...
We are delighted to confirm Friday's Premier League 2 match will be available to watch via our free live stream.

Coverage of the game against Fulham will begin approximately five minutes before kick-off on our YouTube Channel.

Fans will also be able to follow all the action in our live blog at whufc.com, which will begin one hour before kick-off at 6.00pm.

Highlights from the Hammers' match against the Cottagers will also be made available after the match at whufc.com and on the West Ham United YouTube channel shortly after, as will exclusive reaction from the fixture.

Team News...
With West Ham U18s and U21s both in action last Friday, Mark Robson's side for Fulham could see the return of players to feature in the U18s FA Cup fifth round win over Stoke City – including Divin Mubama, Ollie Scarles and George Earthy.

Robson will also have experienced figures Dan Chesters and Armstrong Okoflex to call upon. Both have been involved for the U21s since coming back to the Hammers from Colchester United and Swansea City, respectively, in January.

Opposition...
Fulham will be pleased with their 2022/23 season thus far.

The Cottagers sit sixth in the Premier League 2 table with 15 games played, falling to four defeats since their return to Division One last summer.

Fulham's success can largely be attributed to 20-year-old winger Ollie O'Neill and attacker Luke Harris, although the former has not appeared in Fulham's last three Premier League games.

Harris has six goals in seven games this season, while O'Neill has 13 goal contributions in 12 league matches. No Fulham player has recorded more assists or goals than O'Neill in PL2 so far this season.

The Cottagers' seven-goal victory over Leicester City - in which O'Neill scored a hat-trick and Harris netted a brace - was the highlight of a season that has seen them score 31 goals.

Only Crystal Palace, Chelsea, and Manchester City can better that return, so the Hammers must perform at their best on Friday evening to keep Fulham from scoring.



https://www.whufc.com/news/u21s-v-fulham-all-you-need-know