Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 28/02/23...

[WhiteJC]

FA Cup fifth-round TV games: Watch four live matches on BBC including Fulham-Leeds & Sheff Utd-Spurs

Sixteen clubs will compete in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Tuesday and Wednesday, including League Two side Grimsby Town and League One Fleetwood Town.

There are eight matches over two days with Grimsby - the lowest-ranked club left in the competition - at the Premier League's bottom side Southampton on Wednesday (19:15 GMT).

On Tuesday, Championship Bristol City hope to upset Premier League title chasers Manchester City (20:00), while Manchester United - who are attempting to win the FA Cup for a 13th time - host West Ham on Wednesday (19:45) in one of two all-Premier League ties.

BBC One is showing two live games including the other all-Premier League tie between Fulham and Leeds United on Tuesday (19:45), followed on Wednesday by Championship Sheffield United at home to eight-time winners Tottenham (19:55).

In addition there are two live games on the Red Button - Leicester City at home to Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday (19:30) and Burnley against Fleetwood Town on Wednesday (19:30).

There are no replays at this stage of the competition.

There will be 30 minutes of extra time and penalties if ties finish level to decide who advances to the quarter-finals, which will take place over the weekend of 18-19 March.

The FA Cup final will take place at Wembley on 3 June, six days after the Premier League season ends.

FA Cup fifth-round games (all times GMT)
Tuesday
Stoke City v Brighton & Hove Albion, 19:15 - live on ITV4, ITVX

Leicester City v Blackburn Rovers, 19:30 - live on BBC iPlayer, Red Button, BBC Sport website & app

Fulham v Leeds United, 19:45 - live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website & app

Bristol City v Manchester City, 20:00 - live on ITV1, ITVX

Wednesday
Southampton v Grimsby Town, 19:15 - live on ITV4, ITVX

Burnley v Fleetwood Town, 19:30 - live on BBC iPlayer, Red Button and BBC Sport website & app

Manchester United v West Ham United - 19:45 - live on ITV1, ITVX

Sheffield United v Tottenham Hotspur - 19:55 - live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website & app

And then there were 16
The 2022-23 FA Cup started on 5 August with the extra preliminary round. A total of 732 clubs entered

the competition. Sixteen clubs remain, including seven from outside the Premier League.

Grimsby will be backed by more than 4,000 fans for the 460-mile round trip to the Premier League's bottom side, Southampton.

The Mariners are featuring in the fifth round for the first time since 1995-96. Paul Hurst's side have won four games against teams from a higher division to get to this stage.

Fleetwood Town are making their first appearance in the fifth round. Scott Brown's team are at Championship leaders Burnley, with the Clarets looking to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2002-03.

Four of the eight ties feature Championship clubs against teams from the Premier League.

Six-time winners Manchester City make their second visit in five years to Bristol City. In 2018, Pep Guardiola's side defeated the Robins 5-3 on aggregate in the League Cup semi-finals.

Stoke City will reach the last eight while playing outside the top flight for the first time since 1927-28 if they defeat Brighton.

Blackburn Rovers are at Leicester and Foxes forward Kelechi Iheanacho has scored 17 times in the FA Cup since 2016.

Sheffield United host Tottenham and the visitors have been eliminated at the fifth-round stage in the past three seasons.

Fulham will look to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2009-10 when they host struggling Leeds, whose newly appointed boss Javi Gracia took Watford to the FA Cup final in 2019.

Manchester United and West Ham meet for the 12th time in the FA Cup.

Follow the fifth round on the BBC
As well as four live games to watch, fans will be able to follow the FA Cup on BBC Radio and the BBC Sport website.

BBC Radio 5 Live will have commentary of the ties between Fulham-Leeds on Tuesday followed by Sheffield United-Tottenham on Wednesday.

BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra will also have two commentaries - Stoke-Brighton on Tuesday and, on Wednesday, Manchester United-West Ham.

There will be live text coverage featuring all eight ties on the BBC Sport website, which will also have reports and highlights.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/64594990

[WhiteJC]

Okkas brace beats Blackburn
Recalled midfielder George Okkas bagged a brace as Fulham's under 21s came from behind to win a five-goal thriller at Blackburn Rovers yesterday afternoon.

The Whites went behind to a penalty converted by the clinical Ethan Walker on fifteen minutes after the in-form forward had been brought down by goalkeeper Alex Borto. The American youth international got a hand to Walker's spot-kick but couldn't prevent the 20 year-old from scoring his fourth goal of the season. Borto then made gathered a drive from Jalil Saadi, who had burst into the Fulham box from left back, as Rovers looked to move further in front.

Fulham struggled to get their fluent football going in a scrappy first half that was dominated by the home side. Steve Wigley had made several changes with Okkas coming into central midfield to replace FK Haugesund-bound Adrion Pajaziti and Olly Sanderson started on the right wing in place of Sonny Hilton. Terrell Works stepped up for the under 18s to make his first start at this level in the number ten role, but it took a lovely left-footed curler from Okkas from the edge of the area to level matters in the first minute of time added on at the end of the first half.

Fulham's equaliser completely changed the complexion of the contest. Within moments of the restart, right back Devan Tanton whistled a volley just wide of the far post and the home side were now being penned back in their own half by a prolonged period of pressure from the visitors. Okkas bent his second of the afternoon around the wall and past a helpless Aidan Dowling from a free-kick that was 22 yards out on the hour mark to put Fulham in front for the first time.

The young Whites added a third only six minutes later. Terry Ablade seized possession from central defender George Pratt in the Blackburn box and showed plenty of composure to guide a finish past Dowling with Rovers defenders closing in. But the hosts were far from finished and made it 3-2 with thirteen minutes to play. Right back Dan Pike's ball in from the right was nodded back across goal by Walker and Saadi supplied the finish to set up a grandstand finale.

Dowling then produced an outstanding stop to prevent the lively Tanton from getting on the scoresheet. The Fulham full back fired an effort that look destined for the corner of the net – only for the Blackburn goalkeeper to brilliantly turn it over the bar at full stretch. The hosts pushed forward for an equaliser themselves but Fulham held on to secure a hard fought three points.

BLACKBURN ROVERS UNDER 21s: Dowling; Pike, Saadi, Pratt, Gamble; Caddick (Biniek 71), A. Wharton; Montgomery (Duru 82), Gilsenan, Bloxham (Nsangou 71); Walker. Subs (not used): Honor, Wilson.

BOOKED: Gamble, Pratt.

GOALS: Walker (15), Saadi (77).

FULHAM UNDER 21s (4-2-3-1): Borto; Tanton, Araujo, C. Robinson, D'Auria-Henry; Okkas (McCoy-Splatt 79), Williams; Sanderson, Godo, Works (McFarlane 60); Ablade. Subs (not used): Allen, de Jesus, Loupalo-Bi.

BOOKED: Tanton, Williams.

GOALS: Okkas (45+1, 60), Ablade (64).

REFEREE: Jacob Miles.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/02/okkas-brace-beats-blackburn/

[WhiteJC]

Important Information: Entering Craven Cottage

Ahead of our Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round clash with Leeds United, supporters are advised of the following information:
Season Cards

Season Ticket Holders' seats have not been held for this game and Season Cards are not in operation.

All supporters who have purchased a ticket for the Fulham v Leeds United FA Cup Fifth Round tie have been issued with a paper ticket or print at home ticket - please ensure you bring this with you on matchday.
Arrive Early

To avoid queues, supporters are advised to arrive early to Craven Cottage. Fans arriving 15 minutes before kick-off run the risk of missing the start of the match.

Turnstiles open from 6:15pm and food and drink early bird offers run from gates opening until 30 minutes prior to kick-off.
Print At Home Tickets

Supporters who have chosen the print at home option for their ticket must ensure they print their tickets prior to arriving at Craven Cottage. These tickets cannot be printed or collected at Craven Cottage.

To access and print your tickets please follow the below steps:

    Login to your OneFulham Account
    Navigate to your ticketing profile at tickets.fulhamfc.com/account and click 'Order History'
    All available tickets will be displayed and made available for you to print
    Print the ticket portrait on A4 paper and fill the page to ensure the QR code is as large as possible

If you require assistance with printing your tickets, please contact the Ticket Office on 0203 871 0810 or by emailing [email protected] ahead of matchday.
Using Your Print at Home Ticket

    Once you have printed your ticket portrait on A4 paper there will be two lines which clearly show where to fold.
    Use these lines to fold the paper back and ensure the QR code on your match ticket is displayed clearly.
    When you arrive at your turnstile, your ticket should be placed directly inside the reader, ensuring that the QR code is scanned by the reader, as per the diagrams below.

Please ensure all tickets are ready to present before your arrive at the turnstiles.

INSERT YOUR PAPER TICKET / PRINT AT HOME TICKET INTO THE READER

Entering the Riverside Stand

Supporters who have purchased a ticket in the Riverside Stand can enter via a number of ways.

On your ticket you will find a turnstile number 51 to 55. These turnstiles are located between the Hammersmith End and the Riverside Stand and can be used for entry.

Alternatively, fans will also be able to enter the ground through the Hammersmith End turnstiles (44-48) and walk through the Hammersmith End concourse to get to the Riverside Stand. A further ticket check will take place between the Hammersmith End and start of The Riverside walkway. Please be ready to present your ticket at this point.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/february/27/important-info-leeds/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham winger eyed by Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur as his preferred move is revealed

Latest news on the transfer front regarding this Fulham ace emerges

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keeping tabs on Fulham loanee Manor Solomon. The winger has been in impressive form over recent weeks for the Cottagers and wants to join them on a long-term basis.

According to a Y Net, the Gunners and Spurs are 'monitoring' his 'development' with Marco Silva's side. The report adds that he is keen to make his move to Craven Cottage permanent at the end of the season.

Fulham swooped to land the attacker on loan from Shakhtar Donetsk following their promotion from the Championship. He was brought in to bolster their attacking department and hasn't been a regular starter this term.

However, he has started to find his feet recently and has scored impressive goals against Brighton and Hove Albion and Wolves. The 23-year-odl has made 10 Premier League appearances so far in this campaign.

Prior to his move to England, Solomon was a hit at Shakhtar Donetsk and fired 22 goals in 106 games. He also helped them win the Ukrainian Premier League three times.

Signing Solomon for good would be a shrewd bit of business by Fulham as he is starting to prove his worth. Arsenal and Spurs are now being linked though which means there could be competition for his signature.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-winger-eyed-by-arsenal-and-tottenham-hotspur-as-his-preferred-move-is-revealed-4042571

[WhiteJC]

Former Chelsea forward open to Palace and Fulham move

Former Chelsea and Arsenal forward Olivier Giroud is reportedly open to a return to the Premier League – with Crystal Palace and Fulham two teams named as potential destinations for the 36-year-old.

The Sun have also linked West Ham and Brentford as teams that could land the French veteran, who wants to move back to London.

The 36-year-old, who featured six times in the 2022 Qatar World Cup for Didier Deschamps' side, is France's all-time leading goalscorer, bagging 53 goals in 120 appearances.

The A.C. Milan forward's contract expires in the summer, and he was reportedly a late candidate for Everton in the January transfer window.

Giroud, who has been at the San Siro since the summer of 2021, has scored seven goals and recorded four assists this season in the Serie A.

World Cup winner Giroud has 90 goals and 32 assists to his name in 255 Premier League appearances.



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/former-chelsea-forward-open-to-palace-and-fulham-move/

[WhiteJC]

Report: Tottenham are closely following 'forward-thinking attacker'

Antonio Conte's Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Fulham loanee Manor Solomon from Shakhtar Donetsk in the summer transfer window, according to Ynet.

Tottenham Hotspur linked with Manor Solomon
The report has claimed that Tottenham are closely following the Israel international winger, who is on loan at London and Premier League rivals Fulham from Ukrainian giants Shakhtar at the moment.

The 23-year-old, who can also operate as an attacking midfielder, joined the Cottagers on a loan deal in the summer of 2022.

Fulham's official website described Solomon as "a lively, forward-thinking attacker".

The London club's vice-chairman Tony Khan said in July 2022 that Solomon is" a very talented young player".

The winger has made seven substitute appearances in the Premier League for Fulham so far this season.

The youngster has scored three goals in those games.

Ynet have added that Solomon wants to make his loan deal at Fulham permanent at the end of the season.

Unlikely to excite the fans
We do not think that speculation linking Tottenham Hotspur with Manor Solomon will excite the North London club's fans.

Now, the winger is a very exciting and promising young player, but he is only 23.

And the Israel international has not exactly been a massive success in England.

If Tottenham are to challenge for the Premier League top four and compete in the UEFA Champions League on a regular basis, then they have to sign players who are more established and who would take the team to the next level.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/02/27/report-tottenham-are-closely-following-forward-thinking-attacker/

[WhiteJC]

Confirmed Leeds United team news ahead of FA Cup tie v Fulham

Pascal Struijk and Liam Cooper will both miss Tuesday evening's FA Cup clash between Leeds United and Fulham, according to Leeds Live journalist, Beren Cross.

Struijk has been missing since being forced off with a concussion in Leeds' 2-2 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Cooper is also out injured at present and Cross has revealed (via Twitter, 27 February) that he won't be available for the fixture at Craven Cottage.

"Struijk expected to be back for Chelsea. Concussion symptoms, blurred vision, hung around for longer than anticipated. Fine now, but won't be rushed back for tomorrow night. Cooper not quite there for tomorrow either," said Cross.

Winning habit
It's about time Leeds went on a decent run in the FA Cup. For far too long they have been eliminated in the early rounds. A club the size of Leeds deserve the chance to come close to a trip to Wembley and a win over Fulham on Tuesday would certainly help.

Marco Silva's side will certainly provide a stern examination of Leeds. Fulham have enjoyed an excellent first season back in the Premier League and have almost shown clubs like Leeds how to be successful, whilst not having the same riches as the top sides in the country.

Gracia will be desperate to continue the winning form at Craven Cottage, irrespective of the competition. Winning is a good habit to get into and the game against Silva's side provides his side with a good chance to put back-to-back wins on the board. The clean sheet against Southampton was one of the biggest positives and if the Leeds boss can repeat the trick on Tuesday evening, it will show genuine progress being made.



https://motleedsnews.com/news/confirmed-leeds-united-team-news-ahead-of-fa-cup-tie-v-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Javi Gracia coy on Leeds United injuries ahead of FA Cup clash with Fulham

Leeds United manager Javi Gracia has spoken to the press ahead of his side's FA Cup fifth round tie vs Fulham

Leeds United manager Javi Gracia refused to give too much away regarding his side's injury concerns for the Whites' fifth round FA Cup clash against Fulham on Tuesday night. However, it is thought that the trip to the capital will come too soon for both Pascal Struijk and Liam Cooper.

Leeds will be looking to make it back-to-back wins when they take on Marco Silva's side at Craven Cottage. Victories over Cardiff City and Accrington Stanley in the previous rounds have now set up an all Premier League tie, with the winner progressing to the quarter-finals.

It has been nearly 20 years since Leeds last reached the quarter-finals of the FA Cup and Gracia knows just how much of a morale boost a run in the competition can be. The former Watford boss led the Hornets to the final of the competition in 2019 and the Spaniard now finds himself just two games away from another potential return to Wembley.

Premier League survival is of course the priority, but momentum across all competitions will help to galvanize the squad in their battle against relegation.

Ahead of kick-off, Gracia refused to give away too much in terms of an update on the injury concerns within his squad as he spoke to the media during his pre-match press conference.

"You know I don't like to speak too much about injured players," he said. "In this moment we are in the same situation. The players who were available in the last game, will be available for this one. In this case, [Sam] Greenwood will be suspended."

Rodrigo, who has been absent with an ankle injury that he suffered in the win over Accrington Stanley, is still some way off. But Gracia did admit that the forward is working hard to get back to full fitness.

He added: "I can seem him doing well and working in the gym."

Despite Gracia's refusal to comment further, our chief club writer Beren Cross understands that both Struijk and Cooper will be absent for the game against Fulham.

Struijk's concussion symptoms of blurred vision took longer to go than anticipated and although he is now fine, he will not be rushed back. Meanwhile Cooper is not quite ready to return action so will also sit out of the trip to Craven Cottage.



https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/javi-gracia-leeds-united-injuries-26340336

[WhiteJC]

"Everything" – Javi Gracia makes bold Leeds United success claim ahead of FA Cup test at Fulham

Leeds United manager Javi Gracia is eyeing an FA Cup run once again as his side prepares to travel to Fulham tomorrow night.

Leeds are one game into the Javi Gracia era with the Spaniard already getting off to a flyer with a win over Southampton.

Up next for the manager is a trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham in the FA Cup, where he will be taking on the man he replaced at Watford in 2018, Marco Silva.

What has Gracia said about the FA Cup?
The FA Cup is a competition Gracia is well-versed with, having guided the Hornets to the final of the competition during the 2018/19 season, before losing to Manchester City.

His memories of the tournament are of course great having played twice at Wembley, and he wants to replicate that with Leeds.

While there might be changes at Craven Cottage tomorrow night, the Spaniard wants to win the tie, as he had this to say in his pre-match press conference (via Adam Pope):

    "I want to win everything. The PL title and all the Cups. When I lose one game I feel really bad."

Of course a manager wants to win every game they go into, but it's good to see him so adamant that he is wanting to go far in the competition.

A lot of managers play down the importance of cup competitions and we could do the same with relegation still very possible.

However, confidence in this side to achieve more than just treading water and staying up is a great thing to hear from a manager.



https://www.leedsallover.com/everything-javi-gracia-makes-bold-leeds-united-success-claim-ahead-of-fa-cup-test-at-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Leeds United missing striker for FA Cup trip to Fulham as Javi Gracia considers changes amid Liam Cooper, Pascal Struijk, Luis Sinisterra and Rodrigo updates

Leeds United have no fresh injury concerns for their FA Cup fifth round tie at Fulham but will be without Sam Greenwood, who is suspended.

The forward picked up his second yellow card of this year's competition in the 3-1 victory at Accrington Stanley, having also been cautioned in the third-round draw at Cardiff City.

Gracia did reveal he was considering changes to the side that beat Southampton 1-0 on Saturday, as he feels Tuesday night presents him with an opportunity to get to know his squad better.

"You know I don't like to speak much about injured players," he said, as he kept his cards close to his chest amid a number of injury concerns for the Whites.

"Sometimes to choose the best 11 is to make some changes and other moments is to maybe keep the same 11 you played in the last game. For sure we need something new, fresh legs to compete with our best 11. I trust all my players and it's a good opportunity to see other players."

It is unlikely Pascal Struijk, Luis Sinisterra and Rodrigo will feature at Fulham. Rodrigo had surgery on his ankle and is hopeful of returning around mid-March while Sinisterra has been out since injuring his hamstring in the 2-2 draw at Old Trafford.

Struijk was also injured in the clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford after suffering from a concussion and he has been sidelined since. Captain Liam Cooper was named on the bench for the 1-0 loss at Everton but was not part of the matchday squad for the win over Southampton.

Gracia guided Watford to the FA Cup final in 2019. They came from behind to defeat Wolves in a dramatic semi-final at Wembley before losing 6-0 to Manchester City in the final.

"I have very good memories, unforgettable for me. The way our supporters enjoyed the experience was hard to forget," reflected Gracia on that run with the Hornets.

"I have tried to explain to the players. I have only one experience but that experience was something amazing. I would like to live it again."



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united-missing-striker-for-fa-cup-trip-to-fulham-as-javi-gracia-considers-changes-amid-liam-cooper-pascal-struijk-luis-sinisterra-and-rodrigo-updates-4043096

[WhiteJC]

Injury expert shares Fulham update ahead of Leeds United FA Cup clash

Fulham are set to be without four players for their FA Cup clash against Leeds United on Tuesday, according to injury expert, Ben Dinnery.

Big-money signing Joao Palhinha picked up his tenth booking of the season against Wolves at the weekend and will miss the game against Leeds.

According to Dinnery, Aleksandar Mitrovic is currently out with a thigh injury and is not expected to return until 6 March at the earliest (Premier Injuries Website).

Tom Cairney and Neeskens Kebano are also "ruled out" of the clash in West London (28 February).

Tough test
This promises to be an extremely tough test for Javi Gracia's side and despite their lowly league position, this is certainly a game they should be looking to win. FA Cup runs for Leeds United have been few and far between in recent years and the game in West London provides them with a chance to put a run of wins together.

They have struggled to maintain any sort of consistency so far this season, and a cup run could coincide with an upturn in their Premier League form. Survival is obviously the main goal for the Whites, but keeping a winning feeling in and around the club is vitally important.

The Spaniard has made a good start to life at Elland Road, with the win over Southampton taking Leeds out of the bottom three. Everton and Bournemouth have fallen back into the relegation zone as it promises to be a chaotic battle to secure Premier League survival.



https://motleedsnews.com/news/injury-expert-shares-fulham-update-ahead-of-leeds-united-fa-cup-clash/

[WhiteJC]

Leeds United manager Javi Gracia reluctantly shares injury news for Fulham clash with Luis Sinisterra set to miss out

Leeds United are set to be without Luis Sinisterra for the FA Cup meeting with Fulham as Javi Gracia reluctantly shared details, Adam Pope reports.

The new manager oversaw the first win since 5 November in his maiden game in charge against Southampton on Saturday (25 February), and he will have the same group of players to choose from as he looks to make it two from two in the FA Cup on Tuesday (28 February).

As well as captain Liam Cooper and fellow defender Pascal Struijk, Colombian winger Sinisterra is out again, while Sam Greenwood is suspended, and none will be in contention for rotation at Craven Cottage.

Reporting via Twitter BBC journalist Pope wrote: "Javier Gracia has same players available to go to Fulham with. Reluctant to go into detail but Sinisterra as well Cooper and Struijk not involved with Greenwood suspended."

Same again
The Cup won't be the priority for the remainder of the season as top flight survival has to take precedence, but stringing wins together is beneficial whichever competition they come in.

Gracia may look to rest some players from the emotional 1-0 win over Southampton, with just three days between outings.

But with Cooper and Struijk unavailable it is likely to be Max Wober, himself only just back from injury, and Robin Koch in the centre of the back line.

Sinisterra's interrupted season continues, having not completed 90 minutes once yet during campaign in just 15 appearances over all competitions.

Having the summer signing from Feyenoord fit for any length of time would boost hopes of moving away from the relegation zone, but he has been in and out of the side ever since a sparkling run of scoring for club and country in August and September.

Jack Harrison has benefited more than most from the absence, despite indifferent form, but he did play a role in Junior Firpo's winning goal at the weekend, but Crysencio Summerville may be in line for a start after coming off the bench effectively on Saturday.



https://motleedsnews.com/news/leeds-united-manager-javi-gracia-reluctantly-shares-injury-news-for-fulham-clash-with-luis-sinisterra-set-to-miss-out/

[WhiteJC]

Huge Fulham fitness boost for Leeds United clash as star returns and boss declares cup stance

Fulham have been handed a massive team news boost for Tuesday night's FA Cup clash at home to Leeds United for which a star man is back available for the Cottagers.

Fulham's talisman Serbian international striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has missed his side's last two games due to a hamstring injury but boss Marco Silva has revealed that the 28-year-old forward will be back available to face the Whites.

"He will be available for tomorrow's match," said Silva at his pre-match press conference."He's a really important player but, as you know, we are much more than just one player. We have a fantastic group of players here and very good people with the right mindset. And of course, they are enjoying the way we are playing and the good results. Right now, nothing will disturb our focus on the FA Cup match. Our position in the table can give us more confidence, but the focus is on the FA Cup match."



https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/huge-fulham-fitness-boost-for-leeds-united-clash-as-star-returns-and-boss-declares-cup-stance-4043254

[WhiteJC]

Aleksandar Mitrovic set to return for Fulham in FA Cup clash with Leeds

Fulham manager Marco Silva will have Aleksandar Mitrovic fit and available for what he expects to be a "proper cup tie" against Leeds in the FA Cup on Tuesday.

Mitrovic has not featured for Fulham since February 11 due to a hamstring injury, the latest in a string of problems which have affected his return to the Premier League.

Despite the injuries, including an ankle issue which overshadowed the Serbian's preparations for the World Cup in Qatar, Mitrovic has scored 11 goals for the west London club this term.

"He is a really important player for us, and for me since I joined this football club," Silva said of the striker.

"As you know, and the results are showing, we are more than just one player and I think winning games and taking important points for us even without our best goal-scorer – and that is Mitro – speaks about ourselves and not just one or two players.

"But of course if you have all of them you are stronger and playing with our best goal-scorer right now we can be stronger.

"We cannot forget – and I never forget – how Carlos Vinicius is fighting, he's trying to help the team, he's scored some important goals and he's improving – and there is room for him to improve and adapt more in this competition.

"Of course Mitro is very important for us and, if he is in a good condition, physical and mental he is always a threat for the opposition sides."

Fulham have exceeded all expectations this season and lie sixth in the Premier League table, in stark contrast to their opponents on Tuesday, who are one point above the relegation zone.

However, Javi Gracia marked his first game in charge of Leeds with victory over Southampton on Saturday and is no stranger to the FA Cup, having led Watford to the final in 2019.

Silva, though, insists his side will have their full attention on Tuesday's title, despite being in European contention in the league.

"It's our goal and our aim. Right now nothing will disturb our focus on the FA Cup match," the Fulham boss said.

"The position in the table can give us more confidence and to the players that they are doing the right things as well.

"The focus right now is just on the FA Cup match and our aim is to make a good run in this competition.

"Full respect to Leeds, we know what we are going to face tomorrow night and the support they are going to have here again.

"We know what type of support they have and it will be a proper cup tie in my opinion with two good teams. They want to go through and it will be a tough match, but it is our aim to play in the quarter-final of the FA Cup."



https://www.irishnews.com/sport/footballsoccer/2023/02/27/news/aleksandar_mitrovic_set_to_return_for_fulham_in_fa_cup_clash_with_leeds-3093229/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham linked with Turkish Super Lig transfer at the end of the season

Latest transfer news regarding Fulham emerges

Fulham are being linked with a summer move for Fenerbahce defender Attila Szalai. The centre-back has become the latest player to reportedly emerge on the Cottagers' radar ahead of the next transfer window.

According to Turkish news outlet SporX, Marco Silva's side 'want' to add him into their squad for next season. He is a Hungary international with 31 caps under his belt to date.

Fulham could see him as someone to bolster their defensive department. However, Issa Diop and Tim Ream have currently formed a strong partnership in the heart of defence so if Szalai did arrive then Tosin Adarabioyo's long-term future would be up in the air.

Szalai, 25, has played for Fenerbahce since 2021 and is under contract under June 2025. He has made 101 appearances for the Turkish giants in all competitions, 36 of which have come in this campaign, and has chipped in with six goals and four assists.

Prior to his switch to Turkey, he had spells at Vasas, Rapid Wien, Mezőkövesdi SE and Apollon Limassol. He has found a home with his current club but they may face a battle to keep him.

Fulham will no doubt be linked with lots of players over the next couple of months as their impressive season goes on. They are back in action this week against Leeds United in the FA Cup.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-linked-with-turkish-super-lig-transfer-at-the-end-of-the-season-4043412

[WhiteJC]

Fulham hitman Aleksandar Mitrovic could return for FA Cup clash with Leeds
Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic should be fit and available for the FA Cup clash with Leeds on Tuesday.

Mitrovic has not featured for Fulham since February 11 due to a hamstring injury, the latest in a string of problems which have affected his return to the Premier League.

Despite the injuries, including an ankle issue which overshadowed the Serbian's preparations for the World Cup in Qatar, Mitrovic has scored 11 goals for the west London club this term.

"He is a really important player for us, and for me since I joined this football club," manager Marco Silva said of the striker.

"As you know, and the results are showing, we are more than just one player and I think winning games and taking important points for us even without our best goal-scorer - and that is Mitro - speaks about ourselves and not just one or two players.

"But of course if you have all of them you are stronger and playing with our best goal-scorer right now we can be stronger.

"We cannot forget - and I never forget - how Carlos Vinicius is fighting, he's trying to help the team, he's scored some important goals and he's improving - and there is room for him to improve and adapt more in this competition.

"Of course Mitro is very important for us and, if he is in a good condition, physical and mental he is always a threat for the opposition sides."

Fulham have exceeded all expectations this season and lie sixth in the Premier League table, in stark contrast to their opponents on Tuesday, who are one point above the relegation zone.

However, Javi Gracia marked his first game in charge of Leeds with victory over Southampton on Saturday and is no stranger to the FA Cup, having led Watford to the final in 2019.

Silva, though, insists his side will have their full attention on Tuesday's title, despite being in European contention in the league.

"It's our goal and our aim. Right now nothing will disturb our focus on the FA Cup match," the Fulham boss said.

"The position in the table can give us more confidence and to the players that they are doing the right things as well.

"The focus right now is just on the FA Cup match and our aim is to make a good run in this competition.

"Full respect to Leeds, we know what we are going to face tomorrow night and the support they are going to have here again.

"We know what type of support they have and it will be a proper cup tie in my opinion with two good teams. They want to go through and it will be a tough match, but it is our aim to play in the quarter-final of the FA Cup."



https://www.planetsport.com/soccer/news/fulham-hitman-aleksandar-mitrovic-return-cup-clash-leeds

[WhiteJC]

Pre-Leeds Press Conference

Marco Silva reiterated the seriousness with which he is taking the Emirates FA Cup, in his pre-match press conference.

Victory over Leeds United on Tuesday would put Fulham into the last-eight of the competition for the first time since 2010 – something Silva is keen to achieve.

"It's everything that we want right now, with full focus on tomorrow's much," he explained. "It's really important for us, this competition, I think we have shown during the season so far in the FA Cup how we have been serious.

"Even if you change players, the approach from the players, our commitment in tough games that we played already, even the replay against Sunderland away from home in the middle of the week, we did it in the best way we could.

"It's really important for us, this competition, and we really want to play the Quarter-Final. That's what we want.

"Of course, I know that Leeds wants the same as us, for sure. They come here with the aim to go through in the competition, but we are playing at home and we really want to be in the next round.

"It's up to us now to play at our best level, to improve some things from the last game, to be able to go through the competition."

When asked if Fulham's position in the top-six means we can put more emphasis on the FA Cup, Silva replied: "It's our goal, it is our aim, clearly.

"Of course, I understand what you're saying about our position in the table, but right now nothing will disturb our focus in the FA Cup match.

"Our position in the table can probably give us more confidence, and gives the confidence for the players that they are doing the right things as well.

"The focus right now is just in the FA Cup match, and if you ask what is our aim, it's clearly to make a good run in this competition.

"Full respect to Leeds, we know their capacity, what we're going to face tomorrow night, the support they are going to have again.

"We played against them in a different competition, the Carabao Cup, last season and we know what type of support they have in that situation.

"It will be a proper cup tie, in my opinion, two good teams that want to go through. It will be a tough match, but it is our aim to play in the Quarter-Final of the FA Cup."

Leeds find themselves fighting for different targets in the Premier League, though new boss Javi Gracia won his opening game in charge at the weekend.

But there is still just one point keeping them out of the bottom three, and Silva admitted it's difficult to forecast how they might line up at the Cottage.

"As you know, it was just the first game for Javi last game," he said. "It's difficult to predict the way they are going to be, if they are going to change many players or not.

"I think even for them it's difficult to predict the type of players, or number of players they are going to change.

"But they are always going to be Leeds and probably even in a better mood, more confident after the massive win for them last Saturday."

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/february/27/pre-leeds-press-conference/

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva confirms Aleksandar Mitrovic is fit as Fulham prepare for key FA Cup clash against Leeds

Fulham are looking to reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup for the first time in 13 years

Marco Silva has confirmed Aleksandar Mitrovic is available for Fulham's FA Cup clash against Leeds on Tuesday night.

The striker has been out for a fortnight with a hamstring injury, a spell on the sidelines that means he has still only scored once in 2023.

Mitrovic was in fine form before the World Cup though and, even with the injury problems he has had, only four players have bettered his Premier League tally of 11 goals this season.

His return to fitness is a timely one, as Fulham look to beat Leeds and reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup for the first time in 13 years. It has already been a sensational return to the top-flight for Silva's side, who sit sixth in the table.

The Fulham boss is relieved to have Mitrovic back and available, though pointed to the progress his side have made after picking up four points against Brighton and Wolves without their man man.

"He is a really important player for us, and for me since I joined this football club," Silva said of Mitrovic.

"As you know, and the results are showing, we are more than just one player and I think winning games and taking important points for us even without our best goal-scorer - and that is Mitro - speaks about ourselves and not just one or two players.

"But of course if you have all of them you are stronger and playing with our best goal-scorer right now we can be stronger.

"We cannot forget - and I never forget - how Carlos Vinicius is fighting, he's trying to help the team, he's scored some important goals and he's improving - and there is room for him to improve and adapt more in this competition.

"Of course Mitro is very important for us and, if he is in a good condition, physical and mental he is always a threat for the opposition sides."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/marco-silva-aleksandar-mitrovic-injury-latest-fa-cup-fulham-leeds-b1063413.html

[WhiteJC]

2 Leeds United changes that Javi Gracia simply has to make v Fulham in FA Cup

Leeds United face Fulham away from home tomorrow night in the FA Cup with Javi Gracia hoping to call upon his experience in the competition to pick up back to back wins in charge.

Gracia's time at Watford included a memorable trip to the FA Cup final as his Hornets side overcame Wolves in extra-time of their semi-final back in 2018/19.

It ended in disappointment as Manchester City's strength shone through on the final, but Gracia's taste of success will see him look to replicate at Elland Road this campaign.

He inherits a Leeds side in the fifth round (round of 16) as they travel to Fulham this week aiming to progress through against their first Premier League opposition of the competition so far.

Here, we look at two changes that Gracia has to make as he prepares to face Fulham tomorrow night...

Should Georginio Rutter start?
In attack, Leeds spent big in January to bolster the squad and provide more cover to Patrick Bamford, taking the weight off his shoulders to be the leading striker.

While Georginio Rutter was clearly the man to do that, he's not yet been able to show he is an out-and-out striker like many cried out for.

He is someone who is able to create chances with incredible dribbling and pace, while showing confidence to take the ball with either foot.

In a game where Gracia will still be looking to see what his side can do after less than a week in charge, Rutter should be in line for another FA Cup start.

His impact off the bench against Southampton was massive, and he looks hungry to offer more and fight for a starting role.

Marc Roca fitness boost
Another who came off the bench at the weekend was Marc Roca, who had missed the previous three games with a muscular issue.

His passing range is something Leeds direly missed particularly in the trip to Everton where ball retention was at an all-time low for the Whites.

He was introduced late in the day against the Saints, tasked with keeping Leeds on top and controlling the game at the right end of the pitch as the clock ran down, and did so well.

Even though the Premier League is more important, this could be a key week for Roca getting back to top speed for Gracia, and a match is the only way for him to do that.



https://www.leedsallover.com/2-leeds-united-changes-that-javi-gracia-simply-has-to-make-v-fulham-in-fa-cup/

[WhiteJC]

Predicted Leeds XI to face Fulham on Tuesday: Gracia could make four changes

Leeds United face Fulham in the FA Cup on Tuesday night as Javi Gracia takes charge of his second game as Whites boss and here is our predicted XI to take to the field at Craven Cottage – with Gracia potentially making four changes.

The decision to bring in Gracia has instantly paid off after the Spanish boss guided the Whites to a win in his first game in charge. A 1-0 win, thanks to Junior Firpo's 77th-minute strike – but a game in which Leeds could have scored more.

Nevetheless, a very important win and a victory that sees Leeds climb out of the relegation zone. Attention on the fight against the drop in the League subsides for the time being. A trip to London to face Fulham in the FA Cup fifth round.

A tricky game. But, a game in which Marco Silva is likely to make a few changes. Leeds face Chelsea in the League on Saturday and the Whites will be keen to continue to pile the misery on Graham Potter. So, Gracia could rest players.

Predicted Leeds XI to face Fulham: Gracia could make four changes
Firstly, he is likely to be without Liam Cooper and Pascal Struijk. Long-term absentees Stuart Dallas, Archie Gray, Luis Sinisterra, Rodrigo and Adam Forshaw will be missing. Sam Greenwood is banned for the match on Tuesday night.

The ex-Arsenal and Sunderland playmaker picked up a second yellow in the win over Accrington Stanley – his first coming in the 2-2 draw with Cardiff. So, Gracia does not have a huge amount of players to choose from for Fulham.

There might changes. Here at LUN, we predict Gracia to make four changes. Luke Ayling, Weston McKennie, Brenden Aaronson and Patrick Bamford rested. In come Rasmus Kristensen, Marc Roca, Cree Summerville and Georginio Rutter.

https://www.leedsunited.news/news/predicted-leeds-xi-to-face-fulham-in-the-fa-cup-four-changes-as-gracia-rests-players/