Friday Fulham Stuff - 10/02/23...

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Silva 'wouldn't like to repeat' watching from stands
Marco Silva admitted his stressful watching brief from high in the Stadium of Light stands as Fulham snuck past Sunderland in an rollercoaster FA Cup replay last night isn't something he would care to repeat.

The Portuguese head coach had to serve a touchline ban after picking up a fourth booking of the season in the SW6 derby draw last Friday and paced up and down a television gantry as the Premier League side flirted with throwing away a 2-0 lead against their hosts. Silva told his post-match press conference:

    "The view is much, much better, I have to say, but I would like not to repeat [it]. It was a real FA Cup tie with both teams trying to go through. We scored the second goal and at that moment, everyone thought that probably the game would be killed, but they believed until the end. Congratulations to Sunderland. They obligated us to play 180 minutes in this round. They made it difficult for us."

Silva expressed hope Tom Cairney's injury was not as serious as initially feared, whilst revealing that substitute Harrison Reed had also twisted his knee.

    "They are assessing him, at the beginning it seemed a little bit more serious, now we are more confident it probably won't be, but later tonight, tomorrow, in two days' time we are going to see. Harrison Reed as well had some problems, he twisted his knee a little bit, so let's see in the next few days. Time is really short for the next game, but we will see."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/02/silva-wouldnt-like-to-repeat-watching-from-stands/

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Sunderland boss pays gushing tribute to super Tom Cairney after Fulham defeat

Tony Mowbray paid tribute to a sublime Tom Cairney display after Premier League high-flyers Fulham fought off a Sunderland charge in their FA Cup fourth-round replay at the Stadium of Light, speaking to the Northern Echo.

He doesn't start too often these days. But, when he does, Cairney always makes sure to put on a show.

And, considering that Fulham's number ten has made a habit of bending Championship opposition to his will, it was perhaps no surprise to see Cairney orchestrate proceedings from the centre of the park in midweek. Marco Silva's thrilling rock opera reaching another crescendo on the banks of the Wear.

"Fulham are a wonderful team to watch," Mowbray said at full-time. "I love the way they play and how brave they are. Tom Cairney can't get in their Premier League starting team, yet what a footballer."

Fulham beat Sunderland in FA Cup 4th round replay
With Silva putting out a mix of regulars and second-string players in the North East, Harry Wilson and Layvin Kurzawa seized an opportunity to make their mark. Both scored either side of Andreas Pereira's tap-in.

Sunderland ensured that Fulham were in for a nervy finale, however; sumptuous finishes from young pair Jack Clarke and Jewison Bennette in the final 15 minutes making things interesting.

And Mowbray was pleased to see another of his fresh-faced prospects – 21-year-old Dan Neil – hold his own against one of the finest footballers to grace the Championship stage over the last decade or so.

"It was a great game for Dan Neil," Mowbray says of his South Shields-born playmaker. 

"He's playing someone (Cairney) with power, quality, bravery and a great left foot – what a footballer. What a challenge for a 20-year-old kid who's got to test himself. I think Dan is going to have a lot of years in the Premier League, hopefully with Sunderland."

Fulham will now face a currently-managerless Leeds United in the fifth round on February 28th. 

Leeds are likely to have a new head coach in place by then. But it will not be Carlos Corberan; the club's former U23 boss signing a new deal at West Brom.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/02/09/sunderland-boss-pays-gushing-tribute-to-super-tom-cairney-after-fulham-defeat/

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Aleksandar Mitrovic sends message to Newcastle fans after beating Sunderland

Fulham beat Sunderland in the FA Cup on Wednesday night, and Aleksandar Mitrovic believes that Newcastle United fans will be very happy with the result.

Marco Silva's side headed to the Stadium Of Light for a fourth round replay, and advanced to the next stage of the competition.

It was an end-to-end game, but the Premier League side's quality eventually showed as Fulham ran out 3-2 winners.

Mitrovic played a part in the win, as he provided an assist for Andreas Pereira for their second goal of the night.

The Cottagers will be delighted to make it through to the fifth round, and the game had added importance for ex-Toon striker Mitro.

Aleksandar Mitrovic admits he's still a 'Geordie boy'
After the game, Mitrovic spoke to BBC Match Of The Day while Sunderland fans booed him in the background. He was asked about the reception.

"Yeah I love it," he said.

"I'm a Geordie boy so they didn't like me here. I knew it before.

"But a good atmosphere. Three points against them so I think a lot of Newcastle fans will be happy as well."

A brilliant reaction from Mitrovic, although someone better tell him you don't get three points for an FA Cup win...

Newcastle fan Mitro has better luck in the North East
It is a second game in the North East in the space of a few weeks for Mitrovic. He was at St James' Park last month for a Premier League game, but had an afternoon forget.

The Serbia international had the chance to score for the first time against his former club, but fluffed a penalty in comical fashion. He slipped as he struck the ball and made contact twice, meaning the spotkick had to be ruled out.

Newcastle then went on to win 1-0 thanks to Alexander Isak's late header.

But Mitrovic had more luck on Wearside than Tyneside, and has helped his team into the next round of the FA Cup at the expense of the Black Cats.

It is a result that will have delighted the 28-year-old, as he has never been one to hide his allegiance to Newcastle. It was well documented when he joined the club back in 2015, and it was a big reason why fans loved him.

Sadly it didn't work out for him at St James' Park, but he is now a star at Fulham and their talisman.

But he is still a 'Geordie boy' at heart, and is absolutely buzzing to get a win against Sunderland.



https://www.geordiebootboys.com/news/aleksandar-mitrovics-message-to-newcastle-fans-after-beating-sunderland/

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Player ratings: Sunderland 2-3 Fulham
Marek Rodak: The Slovakian goalkeeper had no chance with either of Sunderland's sweetly struck goals but he made vital saves when the Black Cats were threatening to equalise. He did well to push a dipping drive from the dangerous Amad Diallo during the home's side strongest period of pressure before half time and made an outstanding point-blank save to deny his fellow FA Youth Cup finalist from 2014, Patrick Roberts, after the interval. 7

Kenny Tete: The Dutch defender's devilish delivery induced Roberts into a ridiculous header that led to Fulham's opening goal, but Tete was regularly discomforted by the direct running of Jack Clarke before he departed midway through the second half. This wasn't the supreme showing from Friday night, but the full back was always offering an injection of pace in the final third. The only question about Tete remains whether he can shake off the injury proneness that has dogged his time at the Cottage. 7

Layvin Kurzawa: The French full back made just have fallen in love with the FA Cup, as Dan suggested last night. The staggering quality of his thumping volley from six yards out as the ball dropped between bodies six yards out hasn't been talked enough. Kurzawa, who has now scored two and assisted another in his Cup outings for the Whites is the epitome of a modern full back, who focus more on getting in the final third than the traditional basics, including defending. His untimely slip allowed Jewison Bennette to strike a Sunderland second – but it didn't prove too costly, thank goodness. 8

Tosin Adarabioyo: Not the ball-playing centre back's most accomplished performance. He looked a little bewildered at times by the interplay between Diallo and Aboudallah Ba, who were paired together up in top by Tony Mowbray after the shattering loss of Ross Stewart for the season at Craven Cottage. You have to wonder whether both Tosin and Issa Diop are made to look much better with Tim Ream next to them. 6

Shane Duffy: This was the Ireland international's first start since the evening we'd all rather forget at Crawley in August and it encapsulated why the Whites opted to make his loan switch from Brighton permanent. Fulham are still short of experience at centre half and Duffy's seven years on the south coast, playing a pivotal role as the Seagulls established themselves in the Premier League, made he knows how to defend at the highest level. He was uncompromising in the tackle, good in the air and helped create the winner from Kurzawa, which he celebrated wildly. 8

Joao Palhina: The man with the octopus legs did what he does and kept winning the tackles in his 65 minutes on the pitch. The Portuguese offers power and purpose at the base of the Fulham midfield, which is why Marco Silva wanted him in the line up here. He did get a rest before Saturday's meeting with Nottingham Forest and it was very nice of the Stadium of Light to serenade us all with his song before kick off. 7

Tom Cairney: The Nottingham Zidane warmed up for a reunion with his boyhood club with a peerless performance that simply wasn't confined to the centre of the pitch. The midfield master craftsman oozed class from the outset and was up for the battle, winning possession and playing in Harry Wilson with a peach of a pass. He lasted the full ninety minutes, even winning the first header in the aerial pinball that resulted in Kurzawa's winner. Everyone who said his legs had gone should forfeit all future hot takes. That day we win the FA Cup, can't be a day too long? 9

Harry Wilson: Like the skipper, the Welsh winger had plenty of people writing him off. Wilson, who probably pushed his recovery from a serious knee injury in order to represent his country at the World Cup, could have had a hatful but the majesty of his outside of the boot eighth minute finish proves the old adage that form is temporary and class is permanent. It's tough being a winger at Craven Cottage these days, but Wilson – one of the most important performances in last season's success – will feel far more confident as a result of this outing. 8

Luke Harris: Silva sprung a surprise and slotted seventeen year-old Luke Harris into the number ten role. The teenager was much more suited to roaming behind the striker than the left wing position where he made his first senior side at Crawley. But the result was the same as he was hooked at half time, with the head coach keen to put the tie to bed. I felt it was harsh on the young man who almost made Rob Page's World Cup squad: he looked bright and his intelligent movement caused Sunderland all sorts of problems. You know we'll see more of him. 7

Manor Solomon: A lively showing from the Israeli international, who got more minutes in his legs here as he too recovers from a significant injury setback so soon into his Fulham career. Solomon glided across the challenging playing surface with both grace and pace, but did fail to pick the right option a couple of times in the final third. He's a serious talent – and it is great to see him back playing regularly. 7

Carlos Vinicius: The Brazilian was getting pelters throughout the first half from the Fulham fans around me, but I thought he did better against Danny Baath and Dom Ballard last night than in the original tie. His strength and touch back for Wilson was superb, shielding the ball in an almost Zamora-esque fashion to enable a first time shot. That set the tone for the visitors' strong start and Vinicius will be chomping at the bit for another opportunity. 7

Substitutes:

Aleksandar Mitrovic: The Serbian striker still hasn't scored in the FA Cup, but he made a decisive impact off the bench. He showed that burst of space Scott Parker discounted to accelerate onto a pass from Tom Cairney and, after his shot was saved, did brilliantly to poke the loose ball across for Andreas Pereira to score, whilst tumbling over an advertising hoarding. A Newcastle fan as a boy who idealised Alan Shearer was never likely to be popular in this parts and the number nine revelled in rattling the Roker End. 7

Andreas Pereira: Pereira, whose purchase many questioned, gave the Whites a two-goal cushion within ten minutes of coming off the bench. His dead ball delivery helped Fulham restore that advantage and the former Manchester United attacking midfielder is always an asset with his eagerness to both press the opposition and commit opposition defenders. 8

Bobby Decordova-Reid: Struggled at right back in the one-on-one situations after replacing Tete, but Decordova-Reid's drive and determination were badly needed on the field in the closing stages. 6

Harrison Reed: The fact that Reed twisted his knee might explain a performance that was well below the special one from Worthing's usual standards. Sunderland looked more tenacious than him in the engine room, but Fulham survived another heart-stopping period of stoppage time to progress. 6

Dan James: No lack of pace or effort from Fulham's final substitute, but an opportunity for him to repeat his clinching goal at Hull didn't materialise even when Anthony Patterson ventured forward for a late corner. 6



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/02/player-ratings-sunderland-2-3-fulham/

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Fulham player has been player offered to big club – Agents at work for transfer

With Milan Skriniar likely to leave Inter Milan at the end of the season, his potential 'heir' could arrive from Fulham, the Italian media says.

CalcioMercato.it feature a story claiming Whites' defender Tosin Adarabioyo has now become a possibility for the Nerazzurri.

The website says the Fulham player is one of the many centre-backs who were 'proposed' to Inter Milan recently, as he was an offered by an agent who holds a good relationship with the Italian club.

Despite that 'opportunity' for the Nerazzurri to sign him, the report makes it clear Adarabioyo wouldn't arrive for free, as the Whites 'would hardly let him slip without collecting' some money.

Adarabioyo began the season as a regular starter, but has been spending matches on the bench lately, and Fulham could end up finding a good opportunity to negotiate him next summer.

Inter Milan are said to be very attentive to the English market as they look for a player to replace Skriniar. So besides the Fulham player, Tottenham Hotspur's Joseph Tanaganga and Manchester United's Victor Lindelof are other names they have on the table.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-player-offered-big-club-agents-work-transfer/

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'Best player on the pitch' - Fulham boss Marco Silva hails individual after win over Sunderland

Fulham are through to the fifth round of the FA Cup and are only two wins from Wembley

Fulham beat Sunderland 3-2 at the Stadium of Light to progress into the next round of the FA Cup. A home clash against fellow Premier League side Leeds United at Craven Cottage awaits them at the end of the month.

Marco Silva made a few changes to his side last night night to freshen up his ranks. Harry Wilson, Andreas Pereira and Layvin Kurzawa were all on the scoresheet for the Cottagers as they did enough to beat Tony Mowbray's side in the end.

One player who stood out in the game for Fulham was midfielder Tom Cairney. He hasn't been a regular starter in the league this term due to the form of both Joao Palhinha and Harrison Reed. However, he proved his quality against Championship opposition yesterday.

Silva was impressed and told the club website afterwards: "Tom Cairney was clearly the best player on the pitch. By far. A great, great performance from him. Another one. A great performance from him."

The boss was pleased to have won the match and also said: "They (Sunderland) obligated us to play 180 minutes in this round. They made it difficult for us. And of course, congratulations to our players and our fans, because we are going to play in the Fifth Round, which was our clear goal from the first time we played against them at the Cottage.

"I think from the first minute we were the better team on the pitch. We played one or two touches every time, some moments we played a little bit slower than we would like, but from the first minute we created dangerous moments around their box."

Fulham are back in league action this weekend against Nottingham Forest at home. They are unbeaten in their last three outings in all competitions going into that one and are sat in 8th place in the table.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/best-player-on-the-pitch-fulham-boss-marco-silva-hails-individual-after-win-over-sunderland-4020009

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Fulham boss provides Tom Cairney and Harrison Reed injury latest ahead of Nottingham Forest clash

Latest news on the injury front regarding Fulham ahead of the weekend

Fulham are back in action this weekend at home to Nottingham Forest. The Cottagers beat Sunderland 3-2 in the FA Cup last night at the Stadium of Light.

Marco Silva used the game to shake up his side a bit and give some fringe players the chance to show what they can do. Some key first-team players did get a run out too such as Joao Palhinha, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Andreas Pereira.

Tom Cairney stood out in the middle of the park but picked up a knock near the end of the game and had to go off. Fellow midfielder Harrison Reed also suffered a twisted knee.

Silva provided an injury update to the club website afterwards and said: "They are assessing him (Cairney), at the beginning it seemed a little bit more serious, now we are more confident it probably won't be, but later tonight, tomorrow, in two days' time we are going to see.

"It's not just him, Harrison Reed as well had some problems, he twisted his knee a little bit, so let's see in the next few days. Time is really short for the next game, but we will see."

Fulham will be hoping they are both alright and that they can play on Saturday. Reed has formed a great partnership in midfield with Palhinha, whilst Cairney has proved to be a great option off the bench.

January signings Sasa Lukic and Cedric Soares weren't able to play against the Black Cats as they weren't registered for the original tie. However, they are both available again for the Nottingham Forest clash.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-boss-provides-tom-cairney-and-harrison-reed-injury-latest-ahead-of-nottingham-forest-clash-4020248

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Marco Silva handed boost as back-up boys show Fulham can fight on two fronts

Fringe players offer hope of balancing a deep FA Cup run with consistent Premier League form

On a night when Fulham manager Marco Silva watched from the stands, his biggest concern was not his difficulty in communicating from high up in the eaves at the Stadium of Light, but whether his bit-part players could perform.

Silva served a touchline ban having amassed too many yellow cards. Sat in the back row of the West Stand, he watched Fulham see off Sunderland at the second attempt to book a meeting with Leeds in the fifth round of the FA Cup.

Silva shuffled his pack once more and made nine changes. In came Tom Cairney, Shane Duffy and Layvin Kurzawa, as well as 17-year-old academy product Luke Harris.

Bar a few costly errors, the stand-ins performed well to offer Silva encouragement that his squad is strong enough for a run deep into the FA Cup, while still maintaining their good form in the Premier League.

Kurzawa can count a Champions League hat-trick and runners-up medal, as well as 13 France caps, in his list of accomplishments, yet the 30-year-old has been unable to dislodge USA international Antonee Robinson from the starting left-back berth at Fulham.

That marks a considerable fall from grace for the four-time Ligue 1 winner. Unlike in the first game against Sunderland though, when he was run ragged by Tony Mowbray's energetic side, he impressed in the replay. Kurzawa intercepted well in the early moments, played incisive passes which encouraged his team-mates to bomb on, and scored what turned out to be the winner when he guided his volley into the top corner.

Cairney and Duffy made that goal possible with successive glanced headers and both players, like Kurzawa, took their chances on Wednesday.

Cairney is the Fulham captain yet appears mostly from the bench these days. Former Brighton centre-back Duffy can't even claim that anymore. Yet both affected play positively on Wearside.

Cairney regained possession, flew forward and shot when within distance. Duffy showed his defensive instincts and blocked on the line superbly when on-loan Manchester United youngster Amad Diallo had tied Fulham's defence in knots and struck on target.

Fulham have been mightily impressive this season on a modest budget. There is however a sense that they are only a few serious injuries away from unravelling. They are overly reliant on Aleksandar Mitrovic's goals — which have dried up recently — and the creativity of Andreas Pereira.

Indeed, both players combined nicely off the bench to double Fulham's advantage in the second half, and Fulham had conjured up enough opportunities earlier in the game that they shouldn't have needed either player.

For the most part though, this was a suitable audition from Silva's back-up players. When Kurzawa left Paris Saint-Germain for Fulham on loan he would have expected to leave European football behind. Fulham, he must have thought, would at least give him regular football.

In fact, the opposite is true. Kurzawa is struggling for game time, yet if Fulham can keep on winning and achieve the unthinkable, Silva might just be convincing Kurzawa to stay for another year. If they did secure European football for next season, Fulham would need his knowhow. They are learning how to win ugly.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-sunderland-fa-cup-marco-silva-b1059041.html

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Shane Duffy shows Fulham what he can do in FA Cup win

Are you watching Stephen Kenny?
Shane Duffy was given a rare start for Fulham against Sunderland on Wednesday night in an FA Cup replay.

Fulham ran out 3-2 winners on the night against a very strong Championship side in Sunderland, who are playing some beautiful football under Tony Mowbray.

Fulham advanced to the next round thanks to a late winner from Layvin Kurzawa, after Duffy headed the ball into his path.

It was a fine assist from Duffy who hasn't been able to make a place in the Starting XI his own for Fulham this season, with Marco Silva's side flying high in the Premier League.

Making no mistakes 🚫@FulhamFC @layvinkurzawa
 #EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/ET288vjbEt

— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) February 8, 2023

Shane Duffy impresses for Fulham.
And while Ireland fans will know all too well about the impact Duffy can have in the opposition box, he also showed that he hasn't lost his knack for defending either.

After some beautiful football from Sunderland, Manchester United loanee Amad Diallo found himself in the box. He sold the keeper with a fake shot and seemingly had an empty net to slot the ball into.

But Duffy had read the danger, sprinted back and made a brilliant goal-line clearance to deny the talented youngster.

Shane Duffy took his chance for Fulham last night as he provided one assist, completed 92% of his passes and came up with this goal-line clearance 🇮🇪#COYBIG pic.twitter.com/CQwHRqinSt

— Ireland Radar (@IrelandRadar) February 9, 2023

While the Ireland manager Stephen Kenny will definitely have enjoyed seeing Duffy show that he's still got it, he will have a difficult decision to make about his back three to take on France at the end of March.

John Egan is likely a guaranteed starter (and captain), while Nathan Collins is surely not too far behind him.

This leaves Duffy to fight for that third spot, with competition from Dara O'Shea, Andrew Omobamidele and perhaps even Seamus Coleman.

It's a good problem to have, and performances like the one Duffy put in on Wednesday night will mean that when France come to town, the Derryman will at least be in the discussion.



https://punditarena.com/football/rudi-kinsella/shane-duffy-fulham-assist-clearance/

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Leeds United's FA Cup fifth round opponents confirmed as another away day beckons

Leeds United will travel to Craven Cottage to take on Fulham in the fifth round of the FA Cup

Fulham have been confirmed as Leeds United's FA Cup fifth round opposition after the Cottagers beat Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday evening in their fourth round replay.

Leeds made it past the fourth round of the FA Cup for the first time since 2016 with a 3-1 win over Accrington Stanley at the Wham Stadium at the end of last month. The result would be Jesse Marsch's last victory at the club, with the American sacked just over a week later following a 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.

As their name was drawn out of the hat, the Whites knew that a win against Sunderland or Fulham was all that stood in their way between them and a place in the quarter-finals and now they know they must get past a fellow top-flight opponent in order to do so.

A 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage meant that Fulham and Sunderland had to travel to the north east for a replay, where Marco Silva's side ran out 3-2 winners against the Black Cats.

The south London team will host Leeds on February 28 in what will be the third of four meetings between the two sides this season. The Whites edged Fulham in a Carabao Cup third round penalty shoot-out back in September, before Silva's side got their revenge a month later with a 3-2 win at Elland Road in the Premier League.

Leeds will now travel to the nation's capital at the end of the month for a customary away trip - albeit not typically so late in the competition. The last time the Whites were drawn as the home side in the FA Cup came back in the 2015/16 during a 2-0 win against Rotherham and supporters will be desperate for the opportunity to cheer on their team in a possible home quarter-final.



https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/leeds-uniteds-fa-cup-fifth-26194496

[WhiteJC]

Brentford (A) Sold Out

Tickets for Fulham's trip to Gtech Community Stadium to face Brentford on Monday 6th March have now sold out. Thank you for your fantastic support!

Should the Club receive any ticket returns, please register your interest below to join our waiting list for this fixture:



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/february/09/brentford-a-sold-out/

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Fulham sweating on midfielder ahead of Nottingham Forest clash

Fulham are sweating on the fitness of Harrison Reed ahead of Saturday's game against Nottingham Forest. Marco Silva made the claim to the club's official website shortly after they'd defeated Sunderland in the FA Cup last night.

Reed has been instrumental to the fortunes of the Cottagers this season. He's stepped up to the Premier League with ease and has been one of Silva's most important players.

The 28-year-old has operated in central midfield roles, whilst he's also been deployed as the holding option. Reed has made 23 appearances in all competitions and has developed into a firm fan favourite.

Back in September, he stunned Forest. Taiwo Awoniyi had fired the Reds into a first-half lead but Forest conceded three goals in six second-half minutes to trail 3-1.

Reed had waited a long time to score his first Fulham goal. His first came on that day at the start of the campaign and Lewis O'Brien's goal proved a consolation in the end.

If the midfielder doesn't make it, Forest would receive a huge boost. Silva has suggested that he's not particularly satisfied that he'll be available.

He told London World: "Harrison Reed had some problems, he twisted his knee a little bit, so let's see in the next few days. Time is really short for the next game, but we will see."

Fulham sweating on fitness of Reed ahead of Forest
Saturday's game represents a big test for Forest. Fulham are enjoying a quality campaign and have their eyes firmly on a push towards European football.

The Reds face Manchester City and West Ham after this one and naturally, they won't want to leave Craven Cottage empty-handed.

The Forest that Fulham face this weekend will be different to September. Back then, Cooper was still playing with three central defenders and not the 4-3-3 system that he prefers now.

Saturday will be tough but not impossible for Forest. With Fulham missing Reed, they will fancy their chances of winning the midfield battle and that could prove crucial.



https://www.nottinghamforest.news/2023/02/09/fulham-sweating-on-fitness-of-harrison-reed-ahead-of-nottingham-forest/

[WhiteJC]

Games for the Week-end 11/02
We welcome fellow promotees Nottingham Forest to the Cottage for a "traditional" 15:00 Saturday afternoon kick-off

Isn't it strange that as a Fulham fan I can be disappointed with only taking 4 points from Chelsea this season!? Much has been said of Chelsea's spending over both transfer windows, how have they got away with spending so much, FFP and all that?, anyhow the way that Marco has made Fulham such a cohesive unit, every player playing for the "team", really fluent in possession, well drilled off the ball, very difficult to break down and full of confidence, shows that you don't have to spend a large fortune to gain success.

Forest have also spent a fortune in both transfer windows, they've bought around 30 players and currently sit in 13th, 6 points off of 18, i think that their still in the mist of the relegation battle and will be desperate for any points.
The 2-3 scoreline from September's reverse fixture didn't really tell the story of the game. Fulham found themselves a goal down early in the game only to score 3 times in five minutes in the second half, Forest, against the run of play, scored a consolation late on in a largely comfortable game for Fulham.

Current Form:
Fulham – WWLLD
Forest – LDWWW

Our recent record against Forest is reasonably even with 7 wins, 5 losses and a draw

Following the injuries to Tom and Harrison in the Sunderland game, Tom looked more serious than Harrison, however I think that Lukic will get a start in Harrison's place, so my team would be...

COYW's

Games of Interest...
Saturday 11th
West Ham v Chelsea
Arsenal v Brentford
Palace v Brighton
Fulham v Forest
Leicester v Spurs
Bournemouth v Newcastle

come on over to the forum and join in the conversation...
https://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?board=36.0



http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=2516

[WhiteJC]

Premier League: Players will take the knee before next two weekends' fixtures

Players took the knee for the Boxing Day fixtures and will do so again at domestic cup finals

Premier League players will take the knee before the next two weekends' games to display unity against racism.

Top-flight matches between 11 and 19 February will be dedicated to the No Room for Racism campaign.

Club captains agreed in August to limit the anti-racism gesture to significant moments rather than every game.

"[Taking the knee] is more than a gesture," said former Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi. "It says we must keep working to eradicate racism."

As well as the first game of the season and Boxing Day games, Premier League clubs took the knee for two weekends in October as part of the No Room for Racism campaign.

A month later, Ameobi became one of seven former players to join its Player to Executive Pathways Scheme (PEPS).

The pilot project gives ex-players from ethnically diverse backgrounds experience of club operations and aims to help increase diversity in leadership positions.

"It's always been an aspiration of mine to help the club and inspire the next generation," said Ameobi.

"If you don't see yourself represented in the boardroom, it's hard to have the confidence to be there."
Everything you need to know about your Premier League team banner



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/64581621

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Fulham have double injury concern over key players ahead of Nottingham Forest clash

The latest Nottingham Forest news as the Reds will look to extend their unbeaten run in the Premier League when they travel to Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon.

Fulham are sweating on the fitness of two key players for the weekend's Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest.

After having a full week to prepare for the game, Forest travel to Craven Cottage to take on the London club on Saturday afternoon. While Steve Cooper was preparing his squad for the game, Fulham were in FA Cup replay action.

The Cottagers eventually came out as 3-2 winners over Championship side Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. Goals from Harry Wilson, Andreas Pereira and Layvin Kurzawa were enough to see Fulham scrape past the Black Cats and into the fifth round of the competition.

But while they would have been happy with the result, the game also provided some potential problems for manager Marco Silva ahead of the game against Forest. Club captain Tom Cairney picked up a knock in the closing seconds of the game as Fulham looked to maintain their lead, the midfielder had to be helped off the pitch after full-time.

Speaking in his post-match press conference Silva gave an update on the key player. "They are assessing him," Silva said .

"Tom Cairney was clearly the best player on the pitch. By far.

"A great, great performance from him. Another one. A great performance from him. In the last minute he got an injury, let's see if it's really serious or not."

Fulham also have a concern over fellow midfielder Harrison Reed who came on as a second half substitute against Sunderland.

"It's not just him (Cairney), Harrison Reed as well had some problems," Silva added.

"He twisted his knee a little bit, so let's see in the next few days. Time is really short for the next game, but we will see."

Both Forest and Fulham have had a positive run of results following the resumption of the Premier League after the World Cup. The Cottagers' last league outing saw them pick up a point in a 0-0 draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, while Forest came out as 1-0 winners over Leeds United.



https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/football-news/fulham-double-injury-concern-over-8130520

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Jonjo Shelvey could make Nottingham Forest debut in clash with Fulham

Jonjo Shelvey could be in contention to make his Nottingham Forest debut against Fulham on Saturday.

The 30-year-old was a deadline day signing from Newcastle, where he spent seven seasons, but he arrived with a calf injury.

Shelvey was absent from last weekend's win over Leeds but has trained this week and could be involved for the trip to Craven Cottage.

"He is close, we are grateful to Newcastle for the information they shared with us in terms of his injury, which is normal," boss Steve Cooper said.

"When a player signs it is normal that you pass on some data or information to help a player go into his new club.

"He is close, we have seen him on the grass and we are pleased.

"He has shown his quality and he looks really pleased to be here. Like any new player the quicker you can get him training and playing, the better chance they have of settling in and showing who they are.

"Jonjo has experience of the Premier League and he is a well-known player but he will want to get involved as quick as he can and show his quality.

"I'm really pleased he's here and we're looking forward to working with him."

Forest picked up no new injuries in the 1-0 victory over Leeds which moved them further away from relegation danger.

Ryan Yates (illness) and Moussa Niakhate (hamstring) have received a boost this week, but neither will play at Fulham.

"Ryan Yates is close to returning to full training, so that should be early next week hopefully," Cooper added.

"We have had some positive news with Moussa Niakhate, he has been out for a long time, he is back on the grass training with us but he is non-contact.

"He is not in full training if you like, but he is the final stage of the rehab where he can do some parts of the groups, so that's been brilliant because he's been out for a long while.

"It's great for him to be back out training, he is not close to featuring in games, but he is getting to the final stages. That's been positive this week.

"The rest is as we were, lads are injured and rehabbing. There are a few niggles we are managing but every group will be the same and we are cracking on with our work."



https://www.irishnews.com/sport/footballsoccer/2023/02/09/news/jonjo_shelvey_could_make_nottingham_forest_debut_in_clash_with_fulham-3049188/

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'You can see that' - Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper delivers verdict on Fulham ahead of weekend clash

What has this boss made of Fulham so far this season?

Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper has heaped praise on Fulham ahead of his side's trip down to London this weekend. The Reds are preparing to face the Cottagers at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

They have turned a corner this season after a difficult start and are in decent form at the moment. Brennan Johnson's first-half strike was enough for them to beat Leeds United 1-0 last time out.

Forest were promoted alongside Fulham from the Championship last term. They beat Huddersfield Town in the play-off final at Wembley last May.

Speaking to reporters this afternoon, Cooper has delivered his verdict on the Whites: "I think they have been excellent this season and credit to them for that for the points they have already and their league position. They have carried on their momentum from last year in the Championship. It is not easy to get promoted but it was fairly comfortable for them.

"They have recruited really well in terms of the players they have brought in. They have really added value in the right positions that they wanted to strengthen in. You can see that. They are a team with good cohesion, that have played a similar way now for a good while and that has it's benefits."

He added: "It is a game that is going to be a tough one. We're away from home. We're doing alright ourselves and we're growing our own way. We're looking forward to the challenge."

Fulham won 3-2 away at Sunderland in the FA Cup last night at the Stadium of Light and will take on Leeds United in the next round. Harry Wilson, Andreas Pereira and Layvin Kurzawa were on the scoresheet for them as they beat the Black Cats.

Marco Silva's side have been a tough side to play against in this campaign and are 7th in the table. However, Forest will be a difficult task for them and they will be under no illusion that they will have to be at their best to win.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/nottingham-forest-boss-steve-cooper-has-say-on-fulham-ahead-of-weekend-clash-4020990

[WhiteJC]

FOREST AWAY: Fulham, Saturday 11th February – Fan Guide

A visit to Craven Cottage, whatever division we are in, is one to look forward to and enjoy. Nestled among the huge, fantastic stadia and smart but characterless bowls that fill up much of the the Premier League away schedule, Fulham still has plenty of quaint heritage and a bucketful of soul that makes it stand out. The impressive new riverside stand that has risen up by the Thames adds contrast to the politeness of a ground that proudly still makes room for a cottage in one corner, but doesn't uproot what makes it such as fabulous place to consume football.

It's developed and grown since my first visit to Fulham, back around 2000. Mohammad Al Fayed bounced around the pitch before kick-off and John Terry was a rock in our defence, but it still somehow feels like the same place. Craven Cottage doesn't feel like the Premier League, but that isn't a bad thing. Perhaps it's a shame that sometimes the Premier League doesn't feel a bit more like Craven Cottage.

The away end will flex beneath our feet again on Saturday as The Reds go in search of more points to keep us scurrying away from the relegation fight. Pillars will block the view and we'll squeeze past each other on a concourse that is exposed to the elements, but it won't matter as jot as the noise ratchets up and that big away end starts to sway. I'd say it feels like a big game but they all do, and that's the thrill of it.

Another exciting climax to a season is just starting to twist into view.

TRAVEL
TRAINS: After game after game of some issue or another on the trains; rail strikes, ghastly expensive fares, rescheduled games and evening kick-offs, we have what seems like a fairly straightforward train journey on our hands at long last.

We have booked on the 08:12 from Nottingham using the split ticket option on Trainline.com and managed to find good value tickets. Another mention for the Two Together Railcard which is really easy to sort. Looking again now, going down on the 08:12 and coming back on the 18:35 is £57.10 with the SplitSave option on the Trainline app, but a Two Together Railcard would take a third off bringing this down to around £37. The railcard costs £30 (£15 each) and therefore would pay for itself on this one return journey, plus giving you a full year to save a 1/3 on rail journeys.

Trains are regular into St Pancras, there might be some joy going via Grantham / Peterborough too which can sometimes spring up some cheap singles.

From St Pancras, you'll need around 40 minutes on the tube network to reach Putney Bridge underground station which is on the District Line and around a 15 minutes' walk from the away end. Head across the main road and into the park which runs parallel with the river. At the end of the park the away turnstiles are the first you will come to.

ROAD: Driving to Fulham is not something I've ever attempted and probably never will. As usual, our suggestion will be to find yourself a handily placed tube or rail stop on the outskirts and work your way in. You've got the options like Stanmore, Edgware and Canons Park on the northern part of the tube map which can be reached quite easily from the M1, or a few of the westerly stops around Ealing etc could be a slightly quicker option.


PUBS
As away days go, Fulham is one of the best for drinking within walking distance of the ground. When coming out of Putney Bridge tube station, you won't need to go far before you find options. Just around the corner is the Eight Bells, a pub that is traditionally an away venue. It's small and gets a bit squashed but a decent pub. To the right, a short way down the main road is the Kings Arms, I recall this being a mostly home pub, but we had no issues having a drink in there a few years ago.

Across the road from the Kings Arms is the main away pub – The Temperance. It's a big place with the bar in the middle. It always seems a right pain to get served but will likely be the main congregation of Forest fans.

There are other places dotted about if you venture a bit further, but the main alternative to this clutch of pubs is to venture left out of the tube station and venture over Putney Bridge. This has been a regular tactic of ours for the last few visits. You won't find any away pubs this way but lots of good places to drink. There is a Wetherspoons called The Rocket over to the left on the other side of the river, and a bit further down is a regular stop for us called the Coat & Badge. I think we will likely be on this side of the river embarking on a bit of a pub crawl before the game.


Q&A with Drew from Fulham podcast and content creators Fulhamish
Having escaped the Championship together last season (you a bit simpler than us!), there was a fair few predicting we'd be both heading back there in May. For Fulham, it's been a much different season to your previous Premier League campaigns – what's the difference this time?

There are two things, and I think they go hand in hand. At the root of it all, there's Marco Silva. Not since Roy Hodgson have we had a manager that has every player willing to run through walls for him, as the saying goes. Look at Mitrovic – cast aside by Parker, he's a completely different player under a manager who has said 'look; you're going to be our focal point. Show everyone what you can do'.

The second thing – and this is heavily influenced by Marco – is a more focused and strategic approach in the transfer market. Players like Joao Palinha – for all Tony Khan's posturing that 'he's a player we've watched for years' – is a Marco Silva target. Couple that with astute signings like Bernt Leno – the deal for whom, by the way, was fantastic and can be attributed to Khan – and we've finally created a side that is able to not just survive, but thrive, in the Premier League.

Given your lofty current placing in the table, what are your aspirations for the rest of the season? Staying where you are? Europe? Finishing above Chelsea would presumably be nice!

Personally, I'm part of the 'get to 40 points, then we'll talk' school of thought. It's a case of twice bitten, thrice shy for us in recent years, so I'm not counting my chickens yet! But, of course, expectations among fans will inevitably rise after the way the season's gone. I think 10th would surpass everyone's wildest dreams.

When we last came to you last April the new stand to our left was still being finished. Is that stand open now?

It's half open. The club has slowly opened sections of it, presumably to get some coins in the coffers. So, it's half opened – but also half finished. I watched our FA Cup fourth round tie against Sunderland from there. Let's just say that while it's impressive to look at, there are more than a few teething problems to get over before the grand opening – whenever that may be! But the view of London's skyline behind the Johnny Haynes stand is unlike any other view in English football.

Is there still a neutral zone in operation next to the away section and does it still continue to work well?

The neutral zone was only ever a necessary evil due to the mixed concourse of the Putney End (behind the goal) and the lack of alternative turnstiles for the Riverside Stand. We don't have it anymore, and once the Riverside Stand is fully open, we'll never see it again. People assumed (and why wouldn't they) that it was some kind of twee feature from Fulham designed to capture day trippers. It wasn't.

Where would you point Forest fans towards for a drink before the game?

There's the Eight Bells by Putney Bridge tube station, and the Temperance, which is a few yards away from that.

Any parking tips for those coming down in the car?

Try not to! To be honest, I take the tube so I'm not an expert. I did see a multistorey just off Putney High Street recently though...

Finally – what's the best thing about being a Fulham fan?

The location. The fans. The fleeting moments of success and near-success, the kind that make you believe that our best days are still to come.



Our thanks to Drew for his insight from a Fulham perspective.

We'll see all you in London.

Matt



https://www.forzagaribaldi.com/forest-away-fulham-saturday-11th-february-fan-guide/

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10 free agents who are still available to Brentford, Crystal Palace and Fulham gallery - including Germany international

A look at what transfer options are out there still for Brentford, Crystal Palace and Fulham

Brentford made just the one January signing in the form of attacker Kevin Schade from Bundesliga side Freiburg. The Bees didn't want to rush into any other deals.

Crystal Palace sparked into life on deadline day and brought in midfield pair Naouirou Ahamada and Albert Sambi Lokonga from Stuttgart and Arsenal respectively. Fulham acquired midfielder Sasa Lukic from Torino and right-back Cedric Soares on loan from the Gunners.

The London trio can still bring in players on free transfers if they still feel they need strengthening in any particular areas. Here is a look at 10 individuals who they could snap up...

1. Max Kruse
He is a proven goal scorer over in the Bundesliga but is weighing up his next move in the game after leaving Wolfsburg.

2. Alejandro Pozuelo
The former Swansea City playmaker is a free agent after cutting ties with Inter Miami last month.

3. Enock Kwateng
The right-back left Bordueaux at the end of last term and remains without a club.

4. Zakaria Labyad
He played under Erik ten Hag at Ajax and won the Eredivisie three times after playing his part from attacking midfield.

5. Zouhair Feddal
The experienced former Sporting Lisbon centre-back left Real Vallodolid in La Liga on the final day of the January transfer window.

6. Tyler Blackett
The former Man Utd, Reading and Nottingham Forest man, who can play centre-back or left-back, is unattached.

7. Jordan Lukaku
Romelu's brother who plays at left-back is weighing up his next move in the game.

8. Andre Almeida
The defender, who has made eight caps for Portugal, left Benfica after making over 300 appearances at the end of last month.

9. Eddie Segura
He helped LAFC win the MLS Cup in 2022 with his solid performances from the back and is now eyeing up a new challenge.

10. Lewis Grabban
The experienced striker would provide back-up in attack ahead of the upcoming months.




https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/brentford/10-free-agents-who-are-still-available-to-brentford-crystal-palace-and-fulham-4021239

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Emirates FA Cup: Leeds Tickets

Tickets for Fulham's Emirates FA Cup tie against Leeds will go on sale from 10am on Friday 10th February.

After last night's victory over Sunderland, Fulham will take on Leeds United in the Fifth Round at Craven Cottage on Tuesday 28th February, kick-off 7.45pm.

Tickets for this fixture will go on sale to 22/23 Season Ticket Holders from 10am on Friday 10th February. Following a priority period, tickets will go on sale to 22/23 Members from 10am on Monday 13th February, then to Supporters with Previous Booking History from 10am on Wednesday 15th February - all tickets are max. 6 per person.

Prices for this fixture can be found below:

Category	Advance Price	Matchday Price*
Adult	£40	£45
Concessions (65 & Over, 18-21 Years)	£20	£25
Juniors (17 years and under)	£15	£20

Due to FA Cup rules, the Club is required to provide an increased allocation to away supporters. The Putney End will be made available to Leeds supporters only for this game, with no home tickets sold in this stand.

Additionally, Season Ticket Holders' seats will not be held for this game. Season Cards are not in operation at this fixture and all supporters who purchase a ticket for this fixture will be issued with a paper ticket.

Further ticketing information for this fixture can be found here.
HOW TO BUY

Fans can now secure their seats online at tickets.fulhamfc.com or by calling the Fulham FC Ticket Office on 0203 871 0810.

Please note, supporters will need to ensure they are logged in to their OneFulham Account and have linked their ticketing account in order to purchase online. For more information on the OneFulham Account, please click here.

BUY TICKETS FROM TOMORROW

*Subject to availability




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/february/09/emirates-fa-cup-leeds-tickets/