Friday Fulham Stuff - 24/02/23...

[WhiteJC]

Portsmouth mulling over key Zesh Rehman decision after impressed by former Bradford, Brighton and Fulham man's coaching credentials

Pompey are weighing up whether Zesh Rehman will return to his Academy role.

Rich Hughes and John Mousinho have been hugely impressed by the lead professional development phase coach since stepping up into the first-team last month, initially on a temporary basis.

Such has been the former Bradford and Fulham man's impact, Pompey are evaluating how best to utilise his talents on a permanent basis.

Hughes insists the door is not yet closed on an Academy return in the summer – or, alternatively, remaining part of Mousinho's coaching staff moving forward.

And the situation will be reviewed at the season's end.

Pompey's sporting director told The News: 'We have an important run of games between now and the end of the season and want to put firm focus on that, then we can review things as we move forward or in the summer.

'But we are really happy with the people we've got in the building at the moment.

'Zesh has been great for the football club and the challenge with Zesh is he has held a real benefit to the Academy and held a real benefit for the first-team.

'It's about finding that alignment and that right role for him to continue his development, but also continue the good work he has done with working with our younger players and also helping the first-team achieve results and success.

'We've just got to find the right role that allows him to continue his skill set and give him the personal development he needs as well as helping the football club across the top end of the Academy and the first-team.

'We have been in constant dialogue and what we have to move away from is the thought process about somebody losing him from one department – we are one club and if we're keeping people in the building that's always a positive.

'The more people that can tie and strengthen the links from the Academy to the first-team is only going to be of benefit to us, it's a key part of what we are trying to put together.

'And Zesh has had a great impact with the Academy and first-team.'

In Rehman's Academy absence, his assistant Sam Hudson has overseen a third-placed finish in the Youth Alliance League South-West Division for the under-18s.

They now qualify for the Merit League, competing in League One with the six highest finishers in the south-east section – Luton, AFC Wimbledon, Stevenage, Gillingham, Sutton and Cambridge.

In the meantime, Rehman will stay on Mousinho's staff for the remaining 16 matches of the League One season.

Hughes added: 'First and foremost, Zesh is a wonderful person and brings an energy to most rooms he's in, so that's always a huge positive.

'Coupled with his playing and coaching experiences, that's why he has been successful and why he will continue to do so, I'm sure.'



https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/sport/football/portsmouth-fc/portsmouth-mulling-over-key-zesh-rehman-decision-after-impressed-by-former-bradford-brighton-and-fulham-mans-coaching-credentials-4037186

[WhiteJC]

Sources: Fulham ready Antonee Robinson offer to fend off Newcastle United

Fulham are preparing to offer Antonee Robinson a new contract as they look to fend off interest from Newcastle United, sources have told Football Insider.

The left-back, who is also wanted by Man City, AC Milan and Inter Milan, is currently only contracted until June 2024.

Robinson, 25, has impressed for Fulham this season and currently earns a reported wage of just £25,000-a-week.

Football Insider revealed on Saturday (18 February) that he is the top target for Newcastle as they plot the signing of a more attack-minded left-back signing this summer.

Magpies scouts have regularly watched the United States international this season and have been impressed with his performances.

It is believed that Robinson would be enticed by the prospect of playing Champions League football – a feat which Newcastle are currently well-placed to achieve this season.

Dan Burn is the current first-choice option for Eddie Howe after he displaced summer-of-2022 signing Matt Targett earlier this season.

Robinson starred for the US at the World Cup in Qatar – playing every minute before their elimination against the Netherlands in the Round of 16.

He has started all but one game for Fulham in the Premier League this season as they chase a European berth of their own.

Left-back is not the only area on the summer shortlist at Newcastle.

Football Insider revealed on Friday (17 February) that a centre-back partner for Sven Botman will also be targetted this summer.

Sources have also told this site (13 February) that "huge" funds will be set aside for a box-office midfielder in the 'number six' mould during the off-season.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-ready-antonee-robinson-offer-to-fend-off-newcastle-united/

[WhiteJC]

Away matchday guide | Fulham vs Wolves
Wolves are making the trip to west London for their Friday night Premier League fixture as Julen Loptegui's men face Fulham at Craven Cottage.

A sold-out allocation of almost 2,300 supporters will be travelling to the capital for the 8pm kick-off as the side in gold and black look to bounce back from Saturday's defeat against Bournemouth.

For those making the journey to Fulham, here is everything you need to know...

Opposition information
Stadium | Craven Cottage

Capacity | 25,700

Address | Stevenage Road, London, SW6 6HH

Away allocation | 2,299

Matchday information
Craven Cottage is accessible via all major transport links. The nearest Underground station to Craven Cottage is Putney Bridge, which is located on the District Line, about a 10 to 20-minute walk from the stadium.

For more information about public transport in London, including the latest updates to allow supporters to plan their journey in advance, can be found here.

Parking around Craven Cottage is extremely limited and access to surrounding streets on a matchday is restricted by a Traffic Management Order.

Visiting fans will be located in the Putney End, with entrances on Stevenage Road on the side closest to Bishops Park. The turnstile numbers for visiting fans are Blocks 5-7 and entered via turnstiles 1-17, although do always check for signage (or with a steward) when you arrive to be sure that you are using a gate that is configured for your ticket.

Supporters will be greeted by Fulham's 'Here to Help' stewards, who are easily identified by their grey bibs. The Here to Help team are always on hand to point supporters in the right direction or help resolve any queries.

Pubs near the ground which accept away fans are The Crabtree, Rainville Road, Fulham, W6 9HA, or the Eight Bells, Fulham High Street, Fulham, SW6 3JS.

Supporters are advised not to bring a bag to the stadium. Those bringing a bag should note that only those of A4 size (21x30cm) and smaller will be permitted into the stadium. Bags will be searched on entry. There is no bag drop facility at Craven Cottage.

Detailed information for supporters attending Friday's fixture can be found here.
Accessible information
Supporters who require it can use a dedicated accessible entrance to the left of the turnstiles where stewards will be available to assist with entry.

Accessible toilets are also available in the visitors' section. Supporters without their own RADAR key will be able to request one from a steward.

Further information regarding accessibility at Craven Cottage can be found here.

Social stories
Social stories, a new communication exchange technique using meaningful and understandable pictures, are now available for all of Wolves' away trips.

These guides are designed to assist fans through an event using up to date pictures and giving them advanced knowledge of what to expect when visiting new places.

Any supporter who would benefit from a social story for visiting Craven Cottage, or any future away game, should contact the Wolves Fan Services team on [email protected].

Each social story is individual to the away ground Wolves visits.

The support from Wolves fans at away stadiums is greatly appreciated by everyone at the club. Supporters travelling to away fixtures are asked to ensure they continue to represent the club in a positive manner. Unacceptable behaviour, both at Molineux and on our travels, will be dealt with in line with our acceptable behaviour policy which can be viewed here.



https://www.wolves.co.uk/news/club/20230223-away-matchday-guide-fulham-vs-wolves/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham Vs Wolves Preview

It is worrying that none of the teams at the bottom are prepared to lay down and die.

Everton, Southampton, Bournemouth and even Wolves have looked like being cut adrift at one stage or another, only to muscle their way back into contention.

Losing last weekend has really left things in the balance for us, but results elsewhere continue to highlight the importance of seeing every game as a chance to collect a result.

There's no reason at all we can't bounce back immediately at Craven Cottage.

Fulham
The Cottagers (does anyone still call them that?) are having that dream first season back in the Premier League that Wolves enjoyed all those years ago.

They've even got a Portuguese manager in the dugout, a Portuguese midfielder at the heart of the action and the same shirt design and sponsor we had in 2018. Copycats.

On a more serious note, well done to them for finding stability after so many yoyo years. They probably haven't got the credit they deserve considering they sit just four points below the Champions League places.

Victory against fellow European hopefuls Brighton last weekend was another big result made all the more impressive by the fact they were without Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Their 11-goal top scorer missed the game with a hamstring injury and is a possible doubt for tomorrow. I sincerely hope he doesn't play.

It's been said before but Wolves made a huge mistake not going all out to get João Palhinha in the summer. He's been one of the stars of the Premier League season.

Wolves
Julen got it wrong against Bournemouth. It was too cautious against a team that came to defend. Fortunately, not many others will deploy that tactic between now and May.

I expect to see Lemina re-instated to the starting XI against another of his former clubs. Costa, who was unlucky not to start against Bournemouth in my opinion, would give us a better focal point to the attack.

It's a coin toss between Cunha and Traore but the latter has shown he can give us something extra from the bench in the later stages of a game.

How long can we go with Cunha, Costa, Sarabia and Raul all remaining on zero Premier League goals? Something has to give, surely? A law of average or something.

Predictions
Nobody thought we'd lose to Bournemouth last time out so it was a total blank.

Rich, therefore, remains 3 clear at the top of the overall table at the end of Gameweek 23.

As always, if you'd like to join in with the Prediction League this season, it's simple – just leave your prediction in the comment section below using the boxes provided. Then repeat for every preview article throughout the season, making sure you always use the same email address to make your prediction. Your email is what ties you to your overall score.

You can read my prediction for the game in the comment section below.

Up The Wolves!



https://www.wolvesblog.com/17392/fulham-vs-wolves-preview-10

[WhiteJC]

Talking Points | Fulham vs Wolves
Having tasted a first defeat in three last time out, Wolves head to west London tomorrow evening as they look to bounce back against Fulham in the Friday Night Football fixture, and there are plenty of pre-match talking points ahead of the 8pm Premier League kick-off.

#1 Friday Night Lights
Wolves head to the capital for the first time since October for a date under the Craven Cottage lights against Fulham, in what will be the club's first Friday fixture of the 2022/23 season. The last time Wolves played on a Friday night was at Newcastle United last season, where the Magpies earned a narrow 1-0 win. After tomorrow evening's match, Wolves will need just a Thursday game to complete the set of playing on each day of the week this term, but Julen Lopetegui's men will be boosted by their record of playing on a weekday evening so far this campaign.

From their nine non-weekend fixtures since August 2022, Wolves have lost just twice in 90 minutes, while winning four of those matches. The first of those being the 2-1 win at home to Preston North End in the Carabao Cup in early August before their most recent midweek clash ended in more disappointing circumstances – a 1-0 loss at home to Liverpool which saw the Reds progress in the FA Cup. But that loss was the only midweek defeat (inside 90 minutes) that Lopetegui has proceeded over, with Wolves beating Gillingham and Everton as well as earning a point at Villa Park when not playing on a weekend.

#2 Capital challenge
During the previously aforementioned October, Wolves spent more than double their time on the pitch that month in London than they did in Wolverhampton – but it's been a difficult challenge for the side to turn those trips into points so far this season. Between two home games against Leicester City and Nottingham Forest, the old gold travelled to the capital on four occasions, earning just a single point as they closed the month at Brentford's Gtech Community Stadium after falling to defeat at the London Stadium, Stamford Bridge and Selhurst Park.

This record is a long way from the stunning run Wolves were on in the capital when they were first promoted back to the top-flight in the summer of 2018. Before Covid-19 interrupted football in March of 2020, the men in gold and black went on a run of nine matches unbeaten in London, including their final away match before the pandemic – a 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur. Wolves' first game back after the Premier League restart was against West Ham at the London Stadium, which saw Nuno Espirito Santo's side pick up a 2-0 win, but the unbeaten capital run came to an end on the final day of the 2019/20 season in a 2-0 loss at Chelsea.

#3 Added options in midfield
Lopetegui saw his midfield boosted further this week with the return of Mario Lemina – who will be hoping to face his former club on Friday night – from suspension, while Boubacar Traore was also back on the Compton Park grass having been absent since suffering a groin injury while working hard in Wolves' mid-season training camp in Marbella, meaning he's yet to feature in a competitive fixture under the Spaniard. Traore was an almost constant present under interim boss Steve Davis, which saw the Mali international find the back of the net for the first time in gold and black to help the team progress past Leeds United in the Carabao Cup but has not had the chance to impress his new gaffer since he took charge. However, question marks remain whether Friday night will be too early for Traore to be back among the 20 players who will make up the squad in London.

Wolves' defeat against the Cherries at Molineux on Saturday came without fellow midfielder Lemina, who was serving a one-match ban following his controversial dismissal at St Mary's Stadium the previous weekend. Although the sending off might not have negatively affected the result against Southampton – with Wolves able to fight back from a goal and a man down to earn victory, it could be argued that his absence was felt greater against Bournemouth. Lemina's return to selection will be warmly welcomed on Friday night as he heads back to his former team, having made 28 Premier League appearances for the Cottagers back in 2020/21.

#4 Fulham looking towards Europe
With Marco Silva at the helm, Fulham have gone from a side who flip-flopped between the Premier League and Championship – and were bookies favourite for relegation at the start of the season – to a team who are looking at qualifying for Europe as one of the best six clubs in the top-flight. Although the Cottagers didn't make the most thrilling starts to this campaign – thanks to four losses from their opening nine matches, they have been one of the form teams since the league restarted following the mid-season break for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Silva's side earned four consecutive league wins on their return from the pause – as well as a place in the fifth round of the FA Cup – earning victories over Crystal Palace, Southampton, Leicester City and Chelsea, and although they fell to defeats against Newcastle and Spurs, before a draw to the Blues, Fulham got back on track by picking up three points against two other form sides, Forest and Brighton, in recent weeks. Fulham's greatest ever season saw them finish seventh in the Premier League back in 2008/09, where they accumulated an average of 1.4 points per game. This campaign, they are already on course to beat that record, with their 38 points from 24 matches so far (an average of just shy of 1.6 ppg) seeing them currently standing sixth.

#FULWOL


https://www.wolves.co.uk/news/mens-first-team/20230223-talking-points-fulham-vs-wolves/

[WhiteJC]

Four Wolves players set to miss Fulham as Lopetegui faces Pedro Neto call

Latest Wolves news from BirminghamLive includes an injury update ahead of the Friday night meeting with Fulham (8pm kick-off)

Wolverhampton Wanderers are set to be without four players for their crunch Premier League clash with Fulham on Friday night.

The treatment room is emptying at Compton Park, but Julen Lopetegui is still waiting on several key players to be declared fit for Premier League duty. Wolves were boosted last week by the return of Daniel Podence after he missed the victory over Southampton due to a groin injury.

Podence was selected for the squad against Bournemouth in place of Pedro Neto, who continues to build up fitness following a four-month injury absence. Lopetegui said:"He is out for four months and improving step by step, but it's not enough to play.

"He played 45 minutes in an under-21 match and is improving. We are waiting for him. Daniel Podence was fit and we decided to choose Daniel and not Pedro."

Neto could return to the squad at Craven Cottage, where he suffered a season-ending knee injury two years ago. Wolves will also have midfielder Mario Lemina available after he served a one-match ban last weekend.

Here is the latest Wolves injury news...
Boubacar Traore

Injury: Groin

Possible return date: March

Boubacar hasn't been able to play under Lopetegui yet due to a groin injury. Lopetegui confirmed Boubacar picked up a fresh problem in the lead up to the Aston Villa game on January 4 and the Malian midfielder underwent surgery in January.

He is continuing his rehabilitation at Compton Park and recently started working out on the training pitches. Traore should return in early March.

Hwang Hee-chan

Injury: Hamstring

Possible return date: March

Hwang pulled up towards the end of Wolves' scintillating first half display in the 3-0 win over Liverpool on February 4. The South Korean was having one of his best games in a Wolves shirt before cruelly suffering a hamstring injury.

Speaking after the game, Lopetegui said: "It was a pity to lose Hee-chan with a hamstring injury. For a lot of weeks we are going to lose him. I have talked with him. He felt the injury and we will know more tomorrow. He is going to be out and it's a pity."

Chiquinho

Injury: Knee

Possible return date: May

Chiquinho suffered a devastating injury during a pre-season friendly match with Burnley in July. The winger, who had earlier scored in the game, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury and underwent surgery in late July.

He has been named in Wolves' Premier League squad and there is a small chance we could see him before the end of the season if his recovery continues at this rate.

"With the kind of injury he has had I cannot answer you," Lopetegui replied when asked if Chiquinho could return this season. "I hope and wish he is ready as soon as possible."

Sasa Kalajdzic

Injury: Knee

Possible return date: 2023 pre-season

Kalajdzic ruptured his ACL on his debut for Wolves against Southampton after challenging for an aerial ball. Kalajdzic has been omitted from Wolves' Premier League squad, meaning he can't play again until next term at the earliest now.

Lopetegui said: "In the end it was a pity but Sasa is going to be out because medically he is not going to be ready until next season, or maybe in the last moment of this season. Chiquinho is closer and that is why we chose this option."



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wolves-injury-news-fulham-neto-25462921#

[WhiteJC]

Brilliant Buchele blasts Fulham past Tooting Bec
An outstanding display of finishing from teenage forward Ede Buchele powered Fulham Women into the second round of the Combined Counties Football League Midweek Women's Cup with a 7-0 demolition of Tooting Bec at Motspur Park last night.

Steve Jaye selected a side that combined blended some of his regular starters who are pushing for promotion from the London and South East Regional Premier League and with promising talent from Fulham's under-18 set up. The Whites dominated from the outset but had to wait to make the breakthrough with Tooting proving dogged in defence and dangerous on the counter attack. Fulham had early chances with the impressive Lola Almendros shooting over from distance before Charmaine True's snapshot also just cleared the crossbar.

The opening goal arrived courtesy of recent arrival Summer Roberts, who continued her fine form since breaking into the Fulham first team who a superb display down the left flank. Roberts, who showed an almost telepathic understanding with Buchele all evening, lashed in the centre forward's clever pass to put the hosts ahead nine minutes before the interval. Buchele troubled the lead two minutes later, prodding home after an excellent corner from Mila Lewis had caused chaos in the Bec box.

True was denied by a smart save before half time but Fulham were now cutting through the visiting defence more regularly. Ten minutes into the second period Roberts rifled in her second of the evening from close range after more intelligent approach play from Roberts and just three minutes later Buchele doubled her tally for the night with another unerring finish after a beautiful turn in the area.

Almendros, who was uot to score as she struck the post with a drive from the edge of the area, then did brilliantly to tee up Buchele for her hat trick as the floodgates began to open. The in-form Buchele almost turned provider for Chloe Connelley, but her shot rolled agonisingly wide of goal. Debutant Libby Stratton then made a superb save to deny the visitors a goal from a one-on-one but the Whites were well in control. As Tooting tired, defensive mistakes began more frequent and Buchele punished one loss of possession ruthlessly, seizing on the loose ball on the halfway line and dribbling into the penalty area before slotting a superb fourth goal into the bottom corner of the net.

By this stage, Fulham looked as if they would score with every attack. A deserved goal for the lively Ilana Harris-Walters rounded off the scoring with five minutes to play as he drove high into the net after a well-worked move down the right. Serene progress into the next round of a new midweek competition was the perfect preparation for the Whites' vital home league clash with Dartford at Motspur Park on Sunday afternoon.

FULHAM WOMEN (3-4-3): Stratton; Allen, Bird, Southgate; Lewis, Alemndros, Hill, True; Heasman, Roberts, Buchele. Subs: Christison-McNee, Foreman, Harris-Walters, Connelley.

GOALS: Roberts (36, 55), Buchele (38, 58, 60, 76), Harris-Walters (85).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/02/brilliant-buchele-blasts-fulham-past-tooting-bec/

[WhiteJC]

Club must 'beat competition' from Fulham to sign midfielder in summer – Transfer on cards

Fulham are one of the clubs in the mix to sign FC Nordsjælland's Jacob Steen Christensen in the summer.

Operating in the middle of the pitch, he has registered three assists from 20 matches in all competitions this season.

The 21-year-old's performances have caught the attention of Fulham, Atalanta and Spezia.

That's according to Calciomercato, whose report mainly focuses on Atalanta's desire to sign the Denmark international.

Gian Piero Gasperini's side view Jacob Steen Christensen as a potential target to replace Teun Koopmeiners at the club, in the event the Dutchman were to be sold in the summer.

It's further claimed Atalanta have to 'beat the competition' from their Serie A counterpart and Fulham to secure the midfielder's services.

Despite Marco Silva's side and Spezia in the mix, Atalanta find themselves in an advantageous position due to their strong interest in the Dane.

Jacob Steen Christensen's contract expires in June and the report states he has no desire to sign a new deal at FC Nordsjælland. Therefore, he will be made available for free in the next window.

The report doesn't mention whether Atalanta will still try to sign the player if Koopmeiners were to continue at the club.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-must-beat-competition-fulham-sign-midfielder-summer-transfer-cards/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham risk knowing the price of everything and the value of nothing
When Shahid Khan assumed the ownership of London's oldest professional football club in 2013 from Mohamed Al-Fayed, he assured the Fulham fans that he would be a worthy 'custodian' of the club. On the field, a team that had spent thirteen years in the top flight was immediately relegated and spent four seasons yo-yoing between the top two divisions. This term, the Whites have returned to the Premier League with real gusto and, somewhat surreally, stand a chance of qualifying for Europe on account of accomplished and adventurous displays orchestrated by Marco Silva, who has already achieved his aim of repairing his reputation in this country.

A classical smash and grab success at Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday underlined Fulham's credentials as genuine continental contenders, but the Whites also have an opportunity at securing a Europa League spot through the FA Cup. On Tuesday, Silva's side face Leeds United, struggling towards the wrong end of the table, in the fifth round of the world's oldest Cup competition live on BBC television. Fulham haven't reached the last eight of the Cup since Roy Hodgson's side were beaten in a replay at Tottenham in 2010 – the same year that side remarkably went all the way to the Europa League final in Hamburg.

Silva has spoken passionately about the need to have spirited support to spur his side on. He emphasised the importance of the Craven Cottage crowd whipping up an atmosphere in the aftermath of a famous night last April when the Whites clinched promotion with a 7-0 win over Luton Town and Aleksandar Mitrovic broke Guy Whittingham's post-war second tier scoring record:

    "I have to congratulate all of them [his players] and all of those behind the scenes. And, last – but first really – the fans. That was the best atmosphere at the Cottage this season. Fantastic. The fans showed they can create an atmosphere that can really help us."

I've already written about how much I love the Cup. It's a special competition that has survived setbacks and its demotion in the modern game to still stir the emotions. It is perhaps why the death of John Motson, announced earlier today, hits so hard. In a one-off match, especially against a side as well supported as Leeds, the crowd can make all the difference. That's why Fulham's fickle decision to charge £40 for adults for a game against a side we have played almost annually during Khan's stewardship is so utterly self-defeating. Ticket sales have been as slow as Mark Fotheringham when he featured in Fulham's midfield, as they would be during a cost-of-living crisis, and season ticket holders don't even have the option of securing their own seat. Why would anyone pay £40 when they have the option of watching the game on television? The loyalty of even the most fanatical Fulham follower only stretches so far.

The pricing follows a dash for cash that has accompanied Fulham's promotion to the Premier League. There was a 'stop the greed' protest at astronomical pricing when the Whites went down with barely a whimper in 2018 and £1,000 season tickets in the new Riverside Stand, as well as steeply priced matchday admission prices, suggest that for all the marketing guff about Fulham being a proud family club, the club's hierarchy are not interested in encouraging the next generation of supporters.

It is a particularly bone-headed position to take. Of course, every club needs to maximise revenue, especially Fulham given their history of sitting right on the Financial Fair Play Limits. Nobody would have any objection to a club situated along the River Thames, with one of the finest walks to a historical relic of a ground, pricing their premium seats accordingly. But pricing out a generation of fans just when the team is playing some sublime stuff seems like the sort of own goal that the team managed by Claudio Ranieri made a habit of scoring.

I'll illustrate this with a very personal example. I met the eccentric editor of this website as a four year-old in the Crabtree beer garden. Fear not, we weren't beginning a descent into alcoholism early, but we bonded whilst participating in a penalty shoot. Dan doesn't like being reminded that I won. Neither of us had immediate family who supported Fulham and we relied on friends for our first introduction to Craven Cottage. The prices were reasonable, the attendance was miniscule, Fulham were remarkably generous to their opposition and we were hooked. By the time we were sixteen, we were taking coaches and trains to away games together and I finally gave in to his badgering to write for Hammyend earlier this season.

Fulham have a fair-minded, erudite and educated fanbase. But from the mid-80s until the surprisingly successful season under Micky Adams, they were heading in the wrong direction – with their long-term home under threat, having lost thousands of fans to the other London clubs and scrimping and saving from week-to-week. Al-Fayed might have bankrolled Fulham's rise through the divisions, but he also tried to grab the Cottage for himself. Shahid Khan hasn't done that – he has secured the club's future at our historic home by putting his own money into the refurbishment of the Riverside Stand. The club can only compete at the highest level on account of his continued investment, but with this short-sighted decision, our American ownership risk appearing as out of touch as many of their Premier League contemporaries.

It is too late for Fulham to change course now. But, having been proud of my club for many years, and travelled miles and miles to support them from the north east where I now live, I'll be watching on television on Tuesday night. I hope the Whites can win and continue their FA Cup journey – not least because we've got a good record at Wembley and the day Tom Cairney lifts the trophy can't be far away, as Ormondroyd sung in his recent smash hit. But I can't endorse these prices that rob so many fans, who are struggling at the moment, of the chance of watching one of the biggest games of the season.

It doesn't need to be this way, but the pursuit of pounds ahead of everything else, reminds me of that famous Oscar Wilde quote, when Lord Darlington quips that "a fool is someone who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing".



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/02/fulham-risk-knowing-the-price-of-everything-and-the-value-of-nothing/

[WhiteJC]

Tickets: Fulham (A) update
Tickets still remain.

Tickets still remain for next Tuesday's Emirates FA Cup fifth round tie with Fulham at Craven Cottage (7:45pm).

These tickets are now on sale to Leeds United Season Ticket Holders and Members.

Ticket allocation

6,165

Ticket prices

£40 Adults

£20 Seniors aged 65 years and over

£20 Young adults aged 18 to 21 years

£15 Under 18's*

*Juniors are advised to take proof of age on match day as checks may be carried out at the turnstiles.

Accessible Tickets

• 30 Wheelchair spaces

• Ambulant tickets are available

£20 Adults

£10 Seniors aged 65 years and over

£10 Young adults aged 18 to 21 years

£7.50 Under 18's

Disabled supporters in receipt of DLA (Higher or Middle rate) or PIP payments are entitled to a complimentary ticket for a personal assistant if required.

Official coach travel

£45 adults

£37 concessions

Departs from outside the East Stand at 1.15pm.



https://www.leedsunited.com/news/ticketing/31084/tickets-fulham-a-update

[WhiteJC]

Wolverhampton Wanderers looking to end 60-year streak versus Fulham

Wolverhampton Wanderers will be looking to end a 60-year streak when they face Fulham in the Premier League on Friday night.

Since the arrival of Julen Lopetegui in November, the West Midlands outfit have been on an upward trajectory, recently moving outside of the relegation zone.

However, despite collecting nine points from a possible 12 ahead of hosting Bournemouth last weekend, Wolves succumbed to a 1-0 defeat at Molineux.

The situation at the wrong end of the table has now changed considerably with just eight points separating the bottom nine teams.

From Wolves' perspective, they occupy 15th spot in the standings, sitting three points clear of 18th-placed West Ham United, but Lopetegui and his players are aware that the landscape can change with a win or defeat in their upcoming fixture.

Standing in their way are a team in Fulham who are sixth and have recorded successive victories over Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion, keeping clean sheets in the process.

Nevertheless, Wolves head into their encounter with the Cottagers in West London with the opportunity to end a streak which has lasted since December 1962.

Not since that time have Wolves recorded back-to-back wins in away top-flight games with Fulham, when they posted three triumphs in a row.

With Fulham having spent last season in the Championship, the two teams are squaring off at Craven Cottage for the first time since April 2021.

Wolves recorded a dramatic victory on that occasion, Adama Traore netting a last-gasp winner from an acute angle to see the visitors prevail by a 1-0 scoreline.

In total, Wolves are on a five-match unbeaten streak versus Fulham in the Premier League, helped by goalkeeper Jose Sa making a late penalty save during a goalless draw back in August.

Despite Wolves collecting 13 points from eight games under Lopetegui, Fulham are by far the form team out of the two since the World Cup break.

Marco Silva's team have 19 points from nine matches during that period, conceding only four goals ahead of playing opponents who have registered just nine Premier League strikes under Lopetegui.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/wolves/news/wolves-looking-to-end-60-year-streak-versus-fulham_507392.html

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Andreas Pereira hails impact of Jose Mourinho on his game during Manchester United spell

Andreas Pereira has been starring for Fulham this season after never really shining during his long spell with Manchester United, but the Brazil international has thanked Jose Mourinho for the work they did together at Old Trafford.

The 27-year-old was a Manchester United player from 2011-22, but rarely held down a first team place and spent time out on loan at Granada, Valencia, Lazio and Flamengo.

Pereira did play reasonably regularly from 2018-20 with the Red Devils, first under Mourinho and then Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and he has fond memories of both bosses.

He believes the widely-held belief that Mourinho doesn't show faith in youngsters is not necessarily true, as he helped his career at the time.

'Even if it looks from the outside that he doesn't give opportunities to young players, I don't agree with it,' Pereira told The Guardian. 'I got in the national team mainly because of him. He made me play deeper and helped me see the game from another perspective.

'My first thought was: "Whoa, I cannot defend, I have to learn." But he showed me some stuff I had to do better. It's José Mourinho. You want to learn off the best.

It may not have worked out in the end at Old Trafford for the versatile midfielder, but he also enjoyed his time under Solskjaer.

'Ole was great,' he said. 'He played me more in offensive roles. The season after, I played a lot. Then Covid came. Every time I was building something with United something got in the way.'

Pereira signed for Fulham last summer for a fee of around £10m and has been a regular in their impressive Premier League campaign so far, making 24 league appearances and scoring two goals.



https://metro.co.uk/2023/02/23/andreas-pereira-hails-impact-of-jose-mourinho-on-his-game-during-man-utd-spell-18336104/?ito=newsnow-feed

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Pre-Wolves Press Conference

Marco Silva knows Wolverhampton Wanderers have turned a corner since Julen Lopetegui was installed as their head coach.

Having won just two of their 15 Premier League matches prior to the World Cup, Wolves have now won four from eight under the guidance of the former Spain and Real Madrid boss.

"He has had a very good impact, I have to say," Silva said. "You can see that in the results, you can see the confidence in their team as well.

"But the Premier League is really tough and you never know what is going to happen. They had two very good results [against Liverpool and Southampton], and last week against Bournemouth they lost the game.

"The Premier League is tough, you never expect an easy game. We analyse them, we know what they are able to do, but of course our focus is ourselves, what we can do or not.

"Very good players, good manager. Since Lopetegui came in, you can see some improvements and it will be a tough game.

"A team that spent a big amount of money last summer, in January they did more or less the same, and they want always to improve the squad.

"It will be a tough one, but it will be tough for them as well. They come to play against us at the Cottage, we are in a very good moment and, of course, we want to keep going."

That defeat at Molineux by Bournemouth last time out saw Wanderers miss the chance to put some distance between themselves and the bottom three.

It's the first time the club has had to look over their shoulder since promotion in 2018, but Silva still expects Friday night to be a keenly contested battle.

"It will be tight, a tight game, definitely," he stated. "I think it is going to be the details that are going to decide that match tomorrow. This is my feeling right now.

"I know that they are not in a normal position for them in [comparison to the] last few seasons. Normally we can see them, in the seasons before, in the top half of the table every time. It's something new for them this season.

"They are improving, I think, even if they lost their last game, we can see some improvements in their results, getting the three points in some games to put them in a better position right now and much more confident, and it will be a tough game."

Scoring goals has been a problem for Wolves this season, with no side netting fewer than their 17 in the top flight.

None of their current strikers are off the mark in the league this season, but Silva pointed to the quality they have up top when a journalist put it to him that it could be a quiet evening for Fulham's defence.

He replied: "I understand what you're saying, but they have [Raul] Jimenez, Diego [Costa] and Matheus Cunha, who they signed last January, he's a top player.

"And you know, like I know, if Jimenez is in his best level he's a top striker in the Premier League, and they have Diego with his experience that he has at this level, he can always be a threat.

"And when you have, around their strikers, the players they have, they can be always a threat for any team. I understand what you said, because it's a fact, but of course we believe that they can punish you if you switch off in any moment.

"They are really strong on the counter-attack, with skilful players in that moment. They have a player like Ruben [Neves] who can score from many areas of the pitch as well – you have to be aware of everything.

"You have to keep the focus on the strikers because we believe that they can punish you if you are not in your best level."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/february/23/pre-wolves-press-conference/

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A HISTORY OF WOLVES V FULHAM

KARL WHITEHOUSE LOOKS AT THE HISTORY OF WOLVES V FULHAM


first meetings


The first league meeting of the two clubs was on the 9th November 1907 at Molineux in Division 2. The  game finished with a 2-0 win for Wolves.

The first meeting in the FA Cup was on 19th February 1921 at Craven Cottage and the score of the game was 1-0 win for Wolves.

The first meeting in a League Cup Game was 5th October 1966 at Craven Cottage which ended in a defeat with a score of 5-0.

The first meeting in the Premier League was 18th October 2003, this game ended in a nil nil  draw at Loftus Road in front of a crowd of 17,031 The match was played at Loftus Road due to redevelopment work at Craven Cottage. The team that played that day was Oakes, Irwin, Naylor, Butler, Craddock, Rae, Cameron, Camara, Gudjonsson, Blake, Miller and the only sub was used on that day was Kennedy. The manager of that game was Dave Jones.

most recent meeting


Premier League – The most recent game was on the 13th August 2022 and the game finished 0-0 draw.

The latest meeting in the FA Cup was a replay 13th January 2015 at Molineux after the original game at Craven Cottage was a 0-0 draw.  This game went all the way into extra time where it finished 2-2 after 90 minutes,  3-3 after 120 minutes before going to a penalty shootout which Fulham won 5-3 in front of a crowd of 8,148.

The last meeting in the League Cup was 1st November 2000 at Craven Cottage in front of a crowd of 6,763, Fulham won the game 3-2.

biggest win


The Biggest League win Wolves have ever had against Fulham was in League Division one, the score was 9-0 at Molineux on the 16th September 1959 in front of a crowd of 41,692.

The Team that played that day was Finlayson, Stuart, G.W.Harris, R.Flowers, Showell, Clamp, Lill, R.Mason, J.Murray, P.Broadbent, Deeley.

Scorers of the goals: Deeley 6, 36, 68, 87 , R.Flowers 37 , P.Broadbent 58 , R.Mason 59 , J.Murray 62 , Clamp 73.

The biggest win in the Premier League was on the 21st August 2011. Wolves beat Fulham 2-0 at Molineux with goals from Kevin Doyle and Matthew Jarvis. Wolves line-up on the day was Hennessey, Stearman, Johnson, Berra, Henry, Ward, Hunt, Jarvis, O'Hara, Fletcher, Doyle and Subs were Kightly, Elokobi, Foley, Ebanks-Blake, Hammill, Milijas, De Vries and the Wolves manager was Mick McCarthy.

biggest defeat


Spare a though for Wolves fans travelling to Craven Cottage in 1928 who saw the biggest defeat with Wolves losing 7-0 in League Division 2. A crowd of over 12,981 turned up to watch.

The biggest defeat in the Premier League was on the 4th March 2012 at Craven Cottage with Fulham beating Wolves 5-0 where Pavel Pogrebnyak got a hat trick and Clint Dempsey got a brace of goals.

The line up for Wolves was Hennessey, Stearman, Berra, Zubar, Foley, Kightly, Henry, Ward, Jarvis, O'Hara, Doyle and Subs were Hunt, Milijas, Fletcher, Johnson, Bassong, Jonsson, De Vries and it was Caretaker Manager Terry Connor in charge.

Fulham 0 Wolves 1  9th April 2021 At Craven Cottage
The search for a first Wolves goal for William Jose had entered its 12th game but his deft header from Nelson Semedo's first minute free-kick, which drifted just wide, suggested the end of the goal drought was maybe coming to an end.

Then Fulham replicated this opportunity with a chance by Ruben Loftus-Cheek's guided header from an Antonee Robinson which had Rui Patricio scrambling, but caused no damage, as it dropped wide.

Midway through the half Wolves suffered a injury blow when Pedro Neto went down.  The Portuguese had been struggling from the moment Robinson clattered into the back of him on the right-hand side. Neto attempted to shake off the problem and had to be replaced by the returning Joao Moutinho.

With Neto departed, greater emphasis was placed on Traore to create, but the wide man dragged his first effort of the game, with his unfavoured left foot, well wide on 35 minutes. As for the hosts, Aleksandar Mitrovic's header, which again missed the target, was the best they could muster from a good spell at the end of the opening half.

In fact, they would have been punished, had it not been for the latest controversial VAR call to go against Wolves. This time Podence had made a clever run down the right and clipped in a delicious cross which was met by a thumping header from Jose, who thought he'd ended his drought, but only for VAR to decide Podence was in an offside position in the build-up.

Half-time | Fulham 0-0 Wolves
After the break Wolves had an opportunity to regain their composure, the tight nature of the contest continued, as Mitrovic headed straight at Patricio.

That opportunity came from a free-kick and once Wolves one of their own in dangerous territory, Romain Saiss whipped an effort towards the top corner, but couldn't keep his strike on target, with Areola flying through the air.

Neither side were regularly calling the opposition goalkeepers into action, with Bobby Decordova-Reid firing wide for the Cottagers and Leander Dendoncker's header falling on the roof of the net for Nuno's side.

As the game entered the final five minutes, Joao Moutinho's header was comfortably caught by Areola between the Fulham sticks, while the stopper made a similarly simple save to keep out Saiss soon after.

Those headers appeared to be the final action of the game, but Traore had the final say.

Substitute Silva made a difference by threading a clever pass through to the Spaniard, but nothing will be taken away from Traore, who outpaced his man, looked up and smashed a fierce drive high into the net to spark joyous scenes for those in maroon, as Wolves claimed three massive points.

Full-time | Fulham 0-1 Wolves
Fulham | Areola, Tete, Anderson, Kongolo, Aina, Robinson, Reed (Maja 74), Lemina, Loftus-Cheek (Anguissa 63), Decordova-Reid, Mitrovic.Unused subs | Fabri, Hector, Ream, Adarabioyo, Cavaleiro, Bryan, Onomah.

Wolves | Patricio, Semedo, Coady, Saiss, Ait-Nouri, Dendoncker, Neves, Podence (Gibbs-White 74), Neto (Moutinho 33), Traore, Jose (Silva 78). Unused subs | Ruddy, Hoever, Richards, Kilman, Otasowie, Vitinha.

Interesting stats and facts from game
This was the 12th Meeting between Fulham and Wolves, this was Wolves first away victory at Craven Cottage in the Premier League and first top flight victory in this fixture since 18th August 1967 when Wolves beat Fulham 2-1.

Wolves just registered only their second away Premier League win in their past 11 matches (Drawing 4 and Losing 5), The other away win was Southampton on the 14th February 2021 the score that day was 2-1 to Wolves.

Adama Traore netted his first goal of the season in the win with his 28th shot of the season.

Wolves finished the game in 12th Place in the league playing 31 games with 38 points and Fulham stayed in the same place the game started in 18th Place playing 32 games with 26 points.

Fulham had lost 4 consecutive Premier League matches for the first time since losing their first four games of this season.

This was the second 90th Minute goal conceded by Fulham after Tomas Soucek scored for West Ham in November 2020.

The previous meeting at Molineux which was played on the 4th October 2020 was behind closed doors due to COVID 19 restrictions the game finished 1-0 to Wolves with Pedro Neto getting the goal and Wolves became the fourth club to reach 2,000 wins in the Premier League and Football League.


a little bit of history



Fulham 1-2 Wolves, 19th august 1967, craven cottage

In this opening game of the season, 'Waggy' (Dave Wagstaffe) had the last laugh, tormenting Fulham and laying on both goals for Wolves. In the first-half his free-kick from the left was headed home by Derek Dougan.  In the second half 'Waggy' lofted in another free-kick from the left and Mike Bailey fired home a magnificent right-footed volley that gave Macedo no chance. Wolves' fans behind the goal celebrated wildly!

Fulham were relegated at the end of that 1967/68 season and the Londoners and Wolves were not together in the top-flight again until the 2003/04 campaign. Between 1967 and that date the teams were in the same division just six times and Wolves won three and drew two of these away encounters.

head to head stats


Premier League Stats
There has been 13 Meetings between the two sides.

Wolves have won 6 games with 5 Home wins and 1 Away Wins.

Fulham have won 2 games with 2 Home wins and 0 Away Wins.

There has been 5 draws between the sides

Wolves have scored 12 Goals

Fulham have scored 11 Goals

Overall Head to Head
There has been 95 games in total.

Wolves have won 45 Games.

Fulham have won 26 Games.

There has been 24 Draws.

PLAYING FOR BOTH TEAMS

Ivan Cavaleiro
Played for Wolves 2016-2020 made 96 appearances and scored 17 goals made his debut on the 10th September 2016 in a 1-1 draw against Burton Albion and played for Fulham on a season long Loan 2019-2020 and permanent 2020 to present day made 97 appearances and scored 11 goals on the 21st August 2019 when he made his debut for the club played against Milwall where he did a player of the match performance by scoring 2 goals and assisted 1 goal.

Emmanuel Frimpong
Played for Wolves January 2012 in a loan spell for the rest of the season from Arsenal made 5 appearances made his debut against Chelsea in a 2-1 defeat and played for Fulham January 2013 in a season loan spell from Arsenal made 6 appearances.

Jordan Graham
Played for Wolves 2015-2020 made 14 appearances and scored 1 goal and made his debut for the club 21st November 2015 against Ipswich Town and played for Fulham 2017-2018 in a loan spell from Wolves made 3 appearances which started 31st August 2017 to Mid January 2018 restricted to substitute appearances and was subsequently recalled by the club his loan spell.

Marcus Hahnemann
Played for Fulham 1999-2002 made 2 appearances  failed to displace Fulham's number one choice Maik Taylor as number one at the time at the club and played for Wolves 2009-2011 made 40 appearances he was backup goalkeeper to Wayne Hennessy for the opening 4 months and then Hahnemann was made first choice goalkeeper for the remainder of the season.

Mario Lemina
Played for in a loan spell for Fulham from Southampton 2020-2021 made 28 appearances and scored 1 goal where he made his debut for the club in the 2nd Round of the EFL cup against Ipswich Town and currently playing for Wolves 2023 made 4 appearances made his debut for the club against West Ham in the Premier League where Wolves won the game 1-0.

Scott Malone
Started his career at Wolves 2009-2012 never made any first team appearances for the club and came through the Wolves Academy to turn professional in 2009 and played for Fulham 2016-2017 made 36 appearances and scored 6 goals where he made his debut in the opening game of the 2016 season in a 1-0 win over Newcastle United.

Kevin McDonald
Played for Wolves 2013-2016 made 120 appearances and scored 8 goals where he made his debut for Wolves in a 2-1 win at Bristol City on the 17th August as a substitute and played for Fulham 2016-2021 made 116 appearances and scored 6 goals where he scored his first goal for the club against Cardiff City in 2-2 draw on 20th August 2016.

Jamie O'Hara
Played for Wolves 2011 in a loan spell from Tottenham on the 30th January 2011 and made his first start for the club by playing against Bolton Wanderers as a substitute and a permanent spell 2011-2014 made 55 appearances and scored 5 goals and played for Fulham 2015-2016 made 37 appearances and scored 1 goal and made his debut in the opening game of the 2015 season against Cardiff City.

Sheyi Ojo
Played for Wolves in a loan spell from Liverpool 2015-2016 made 16 appearances and scored 2 goals made his debut as a substitute coming on in the 84th Minute playing against Blackburn Rovers and played for Fulham also from a loan spell from Liverpool 2017-2018 made 24 appearances and scored 4 goals.

Seol Ki Hyeon
Played for Wolves 2004-2006 made 69 appearances and scored 8 goals and played for Fulham 2007-2010 made 18 appearances and scored 1 goal.

Jamie Smith
Played for Wolves 1994-1997 made 87 appearances and scored 1 goal and played for Fulham in a loan spell from Crystal Palace 1999 made 9 appearances and scored 1 goal.

Richard Stearman
Played for Wolves 2008-2015 and loan spell 2016-2017 from Fulham made 229 appearances and scored 5 goals he made his debut for Wolves in a 2-2 at Plymouth Argyle on the 9th August 2008 and played for Fulham 2015-2017 made 29 appearances.

Others Who Played For Both Clubs

Dave Beasant, Gordon Brice, Donald ****, Stan Collymore, George Edmonds, Jack Hamilton, Jackie Henderson, Max Kilman, Tony Lange, Mekhi Leacock McLeod, Andrew Lonergan, Stacey North, Billy Richards, Dick Richards, Harry Robotham, Alf Tootill.
Played, Coached, Managed Both Teams

Stuart Gray – Assistant Manager & Caretaker Manager
Was at Wolves 2004 working with Dave Jones as a assistant manager and also was a caretaker manager of the for a month taking charge of 7 games and also was a caretaker manager at Fulham 2015 for 19 days taking charge of 4 games and is currently the Assistant Manager at Fulham working with Marco Silva at this current time.

Dave Beasant – Goalkeeping Coach
Played for Wolves in a loan spell 1992 from Chelsea made 4 appearances and was a player for Fulham 2003-2004 made no appearances and was also a goalkeeping coach at Fulham working with Lawrie Sanchez and also with Northern Ireland.



https://alwayswolves.co.uk/a-history-of-wolves-v-fulham/

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Dawson | 'We know that we're going to have to be at our best'
Craig Dawson believes the team spirit inside the Wolves camp he's experienced since he made the move to Molineux in January is already having a positive effect on the results on the pitch.

It took the defender just 12 minutes to make his mark at Wolves, with Dawson popping up to give his new team a two-goal advantage at home to Liverpool 19 days ago. But having fallen to Bournemouth in their latest Premier League outing, the former West Ham United man insists head coach Julen Lopetegui does not allow the players to let the positive or negative results affect their moods and will be trying all they can to get back to winning ways against Fulham on Friday evening.

On bouncing back at Fulham
"It was a tough game and a difficult one to take against Bournemouth. A 1-0 loss at home after the results we've had recently was tough to take. But in the two previous games we had two great results, so it was a little bit of a setback for us.

"But we know we're going to have those moments, it's about what we do after that which counts. We're going to learn from that game, and we've had a good week on the training pitch, so hopefully we're going to put that right against Fulham.

"Fulham are a great team. If you go through their squad, they've got a brilliant team, so it's going to be a tough game – we know that.

"We know that we're going to have to be at our best, but we've had a good week on the training pitch so we're well prepared and hopefully we can get a good result. We've got some tough games coming up, but they're games we're looking forward to."

On first month at Wolves
"The move was talked about in the summer and it didn't quite happen, but we got there in the end. The January window doesn't give you much time to settle in, but I was delighted that we were able to get it over the line and get started straight away.

"Settling in was quite easy and the first game against Liverpool, 3-0, it makes everything a lot easier. It's been a good start and it's a great group to be part of – one that wants to work hard and has a top, top quality manager as well, bur the lads have all been great

"It's a really good group, a really tight-knit group and they all welcomed me very well and have been really helpful. But that's the spirit we need now for the rest of the season. We need to stick together as a group, no matter what the results, we keep focused and working hard together as a team."

On working under Lopetegui
"He's obviously a top manager. He's been at some great clubs and has some great experience. I played against him in the quarter-final of the Europa League and I remember playing against his team and seeing the passion that he had at the side of the pitch.

"When Wolves came in for me in January, I obviously wanted to work for him and come to the club, so I was really excited to do that.

"I'm really enjoying working with him so far and look forward to learning a lot more from him. He's very passionate, very hard working and he keeps everybody on their toes."

On scoring on his debut
"You always look at that first game and Liverpool at home is not an easy game, but we started the game well, so to get a goal just 12 minutes into it settled me down and gave me a good start.

"But being a defender, you need to keep clean sheets because that's what you're paid to do, but it's always nice to pop up with a goal and luckily in my career, whatever club I've been at I've managed to get a couple of goals, so they're a bonus really.

"It was a good start and one that we'll be looking to build on. We know we've got great challenges this season, but one that we're all looking forward to."

On giving advice to his younger teammates
"You've just got to enjoy every moment. Work hard, but you need to enjoy it and remain grounded. Don't take the highs too high and don't take the lows too low.

"There's always ups and downs in football, that's the way it is. You can be up one week and down the next, but you just have to stay focused throughout, not take them either way and enjoy the moment. We're lucky enough to play in this league – the best league in the world, so it's all about enjoying it, but staying focused."

On his aims for the season
"For me personally, I just take each game as it comes. Obviously, you want to play every game and you want to win every game, but as a group and a team, we just have to focus on every game right to the end, work hard every week and hopefully we can get a positive result.

"I want to enjoy the experience and use my experience to help others in the team and we'll see where it takes us. We've been working hard, so if we take every game as it comes, hopefully we can start a run."



https://www.wolves.co.uk/news/mens-first-team/20230223-dawson-we-know-that-we-re-going-to-have-to-be-at-our-best/

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Marco Silva hopes in-form Fulham can keep the dream alive for their fans

Marco Silva insisted dreaming of feats such as securing a place in a European competition is "for the fans" as Fulham prepare to host Wolves in the Premier League on Friday.

Fulham sit sixth in the table, after a 1-0 victory at Brighton last Saturday, but Silva remains grounded over his side's chances of European football next season.

"I am not the guy that dreams too much, I am ambitious – of course I am – but I think we are showing that on the pitch, our ambition and our desire," the Fulham manager said.

"To dream is for our fans.

"For us it's game by game and you have to go each game to prepare our players as best we can with full ambition to win the football match."

Fulham top goalscorer Aleksandar Mitrovic has not featured for the club since February 11 with a hamstring injury.

The forward has had a number of injuries this season, with an ankle injury overshadowing his preparations ahead of leading Serbia at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Silva will make a late call on Mitrovic, who has scored 11 goals this season for the west London club.

"Nothing different (in terms of injuries) from the last game apart from Mitro," he said.

"It will be difficult for him to be ready but we have some more time until tomorrow.

"Today he was on the pitch already outside and let's see what the news will be for tomorrow.

"It will be difficult but the session this morning – it was good to see him outside the last few days, doing some specific work, so let's see the reaction from today and tomorrow we are going to make a decision."

"Tom Cairney is still out, as is Neeskens Kebano."

Fulham have exceeded all expectations this season after winning the Championship the previous campaign, and have won their last three matches – including an FA Cup replay at Sunderland.

Since the World Cup break the Cottagers have only lost two matches – at Newcastle and home to Tottenham – and conceded just four goals in the league.

"The mood (in the squad) is really good," Silva said

"We have a group of players that are really focused, as all the teams we need a good result to be confident, even more than the previous one.

"With good results and a good performance you can achieve it, but we always believe in ourselves, we know the competition we are facing but we know our quality as well.

"I think it is no surprise that the mood is good."



https://www.irishnews.com/sport/footballsoccer/2023/02/23/news/marco_silva_hopes_in-form_fulham_can_keep_the_dream_alive_for_their_fans-3085103/

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Team News: Mitro Update

Marco Silva is not ruling out an appearance for Aleksandar Mitrović against Wolverhampton Wanderers, but admitted the odds are against him.

Our top scorer missed the win in Brighton with a hamstring strain but has been training this week, and Silva will make a late call on his involvement.

"It will be difficult for him to be ready, but we have some more time until tomorrow," Silva explained. "Today he was on the pitch already, he was outside, and let's see what will be the news for tomorrow.

"It will be difficult, I have to say, but it was good to see him outside in the session this morning, and the last few days he was already outside doing some specific work.

"Let's see the reaction from today, and tomorrow we are going to take a decision.

"Tom Cairney is still out, as is Neeskens Kebano."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/february/23/team-news-mitro-update/

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Fulham boss Marco Silva welcomes regulator to 'protect football culture'

Fulham manager Marco Silva has welcomed the latest step towards an independent regulator in English football.

A government white paper published on Thursday morning sets out monumental upcoming changes in the administration and power structures within the game. The white paper detailed, among other things, that clubs will be banned from joining future breakaway divisions such as the infamous and so-far failed European Super League.

The white paper came as a response to the Fan-Led Review of Football Governance which detailed ten recommendations and was chaired by the former sports minister Tracey Crouch MP in 2021.

"It is always important to protect everything within the culture of football," Silva said. "But at the same time, it's important to have the right people taking the right decisions. People who know football taking the decisions in football. That's important."

Meanwhile, Fulham — who host Wolves in the Premier League on Friday night — struggled for clean sheets before the World Cup but since returning to action have been defensively astute. They haven't conceded in any of their last three league games.

"I think it's been one of the biggest improvements from ourselves after the World Cup break," the manager added. "We analysed that we had to improve. We were sloppy in some moments."

Top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic remains an injury doubt having missed the 1-0 win over Brighton last weekend due to a hamstring injury. He may feature tomorrow, but Silva admitted there is a high chance the visit of Wolves will come too early for the Serb.

"It will be difficult for him to be ready but he will have some more [training] time tomorrow," said Silva. "He was on the pitch today. Let's see the reaction from today. Tom Cairney is still out, as is Neeskens Kebano."

Fulham are flying high in sixth place in the table and Silva is riding the crest of the wave.

"As you would expect the mood is really good," he said. "We have a group of players that care and are really focused.

"I am not the guy who dreams too much," Silva said, when asked about Fulham's chance of finishing the season in a European place. "To be ambitious, of course I am. We are in a very good position in the table. To dream is for our fans."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-silva-regulator-b1062664.html

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'He's a step up': Sherwood and Allardyce disagree over Fulham ace going to Man United

Speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Football Podcast, Tim Sherwood and Sam Allardyce have been discussing the idea of Aleksandar Mitrovic signing for either Manchester United or Chelsea.

It's no secret that both Chelsea and United need a new striker through the door in the summer, and it's fair to say that the market isn't over-saturated with quality centre-forwards right now.

One player who has caught the eye this season is Mitrovic, and both pundits were asked whether he's good enough to play for one of these top clubs.

Allardyce doesn't think the Serbian has what it takes, but Sherwood disagreed, stating that he's an upgrade on Wout Weghorst.

Mitrovic conundrum
The two pundits were asked about the Fulham star getting a big move.

"No, he's not quite there for me. He's done a fantastic job, the manager has done a job on him. He looks fitter and more mobile than I've seen for a long time. He looks as motivated and as fit as he's ever been. Fulham are having a fantastic season and he's scoring the goals to go with it. He's brilliant on crosses with his head particularly," Allardyce said.

Tim Sherwood had another point of view.

"They need a striker certainly if they're going to persevere with Havertz, he's not a nine. I'm not sure how he contributes to the game too much. Look, if Weghorst can play for Man United then so can Mitrovic. He's a step up from him. The manager wants a nine and I think they go for a big one in the summer a standout number nine in Europe whoeve rthat may be," Sherwood said.

Good enough
Mitrovic is good enough to play for either of these two clubs, make no mistake about it.

Regardless of what anyone may think of him or this Fulham team, one thing is for sure, Mitrovic knows where the back of the net is.

He scored 43 times last season, he scored twice at the World Cup, he's in double figures in the Premier League this term, and he's also very good at linking up play these days.

Mitrovic may be too unfashionable for either of these clubs to actually make this move, but he's certainly talented enough to make his mark at either Chelsea or United if he was given the chance.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/02/23/hes-a-step-up-sherwood-and-allardyce-disagree-over-fulham-ace-going-to-man-united/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham readying new deal for Robinson
Fulham are set to open contract talks with full back Antonee Robinson to ward off interest from other Premier League and European suitors, according to reports this morning.

The American international has been one of the Whites' most consistent performers as Marco Silva's pre-season relegation favourites have stunned the punditocracy by storming to sixth place in the top flight. Tabloid reports have linked the former Wigan left back with moves to Manchester City and Newcastle United as well as Serie A giants Internazionale and AC Milan throughout the course of the season, but Football Insider claims that the Cottagers are ready to offer the 25 year-old a long-term deal.

Robinson is believed to be happy at Craven Cottage after Fulham gave him a shot at the top flight following the Latics' relegation from the Championship and enjoying working under Silva, who made the attack-minded defender his first choice left back after taking over from Scott Parker. Robinson has just a year to run on his current deal and the Whites are not willing to entertain offers for the flying full-back, who played every minute of the United States' World Cup campaign alongside Fulham team-mate Tim Ream earlier this winter.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/02/fulham-readying-new-deal-for-robinson/