Friday Fulham Stuff - 29/09/23...

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Left-back concerns for Peseiro ahead of Saudi Arabia friendly as Fulham star suffers injury
There is a  genuine cause for concern regarding the fitness of two Super Eagles left-backs before manager Jose Peseiro announces his roster for the national team's upcoming friendly against Saudi Arabia, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

Zaidu Sanusi, Nigeria's first choice left-back, is all but ruled out of the friendly on October 13, with Porto confirming last week that the 26-year-old will be out of action for a few weeks after suffering a muscle injury to his left thigh in a Champions League encounter against Shakhtar Donetsk.

Joining Sanusi in the treatment room is Fulham fullback Calvin Bassey who was replaced in the 83rd minute of their Carabao Cup win against Norwich City on Wednesday night.

The Cottagers stressed as Bassey was being replaced that it was an injury-enforced substitution but have not yet provided a further update on the severity of the injury.

The match was delayed for a minute or two as the left-back was down injured receiving treatment on the pitch.

A third Super Eagles left-back in Jamilu Collins has had his own injury issues, limiting his appearances to twelve since he joined Cardiff City in the summer of 2022.

Having said that, Collins has earned rave reviews for his brilliant displays since he recovered from the ACL injury that kept him sidelined for almost the whole of last season.

The former Paderborn star has not played a game for the Super Eagles since January 2022.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=48963

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Spurs set to make surprise swoop for former player as Fulham target £17m striker
All the latest Premier League transfer rumours as Spurs prepare to bring their former winger home and Fulham line up a second bid for a free-scoring striker.

Spurs are already preparing their transfer targets for next summer, judging by today's report that they've picked out a player in Portugal for a future bid – and not just any player, but one that they allowed to leave at the age of 20. Marcus Edwards could be in line for a long-awaited return to north London.

Sporting manager Rúben Amorim recently said that he thinks the now 24-year-old winger should be in the England squad, and his 12 goals in 49 games last year does lend some weight to the idea that he might be pretty handy. Spurs seem keen to put that to the test, although Sport Witness do take pains to point out that they are but one of "several European clubs" who are tracking the Enfield-born wideman.

Apparently Spurs stand to benefit either way – they hold a 35% sell-on clause on the player. It had been 50%, but they reduced as part of the deal that saw them sign Pedro Porro. You can't do that in Football Manager.

The 3AM Verdict: Edwards has been quietly racking up plaudits in the Primera Liga for some time now, and he's an excellent dribbler who presents a pretty decent goal threat – although he is one of the least defensive-minded forwards imaginable, which may not mesh all that well with Ange Postecoglou's high-energy pressing football. No transfer fee is mentioned, but that meaty sell-on clause should give Spurs a pretty strong hand in negotiations.

Fulham back in for Stuttgart star
VfB Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy has scored a frankly absurd ten goals in his first five Bundesliga matches this season – which is probably making Marco Silva feel pretty sick given that Fulham made a concerted effort to sign him towards the end of the summer transfer window.

That didn't work out (obviously) but neither has anyone else playing up front for the Cottagers, so they may be relieved to hear that he has a €20m release clause in his contract for next summer – pretty good money for anyone who can hit double digits before the end of September, and Sport Witness – for it is them again with the scoop on this one – reckon they'll be back for a second attempt at securing the Guinean forward's signature.

The 3AM Verdict: After several solid but not necessarily spectacular years in France, the 27-year-old Guirassy has exploded into form at Stuttgart and now totals 21 goals in 27 top-flight games for the German club. Probably a massive bargain at €20m, then, but one would imagine that Fulham won't be the only team aware of the release clause by the time next June rolls around.



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/spurs/spurs-set-make-surprise-swoop-for-former-player-fulham-target-ps17m-striker-4351118

[WhiteJC]

Fulham 2-1 Norwich City: Player ratings
Marek Rodak: A quiet night nearly turned into a very uneventful one for Fulham's second round shoot-out hero after Borja Sainz brought Norwich back into a game that looked beyond them. The Slovakian stopper made a crucial first half save to deny Ui-Jo Hwang in front of goal when it seemed simpler for the Nottingham Forest loanee to score. Rodak wasn't called upon to do anything else beyond the routine, but it may concern Marco Silva how open his side seemed to counter attacks. Stronger sides can – and will – exploit that. 7

Timothy Castagne: Our new Belgian full back has looked very assured in his last two outings but he proved susceptible to the pace and persistence of Przemyslaw Placheta, particularly in the first half. The Polish international looked like he had Castagne on toast at times – and although the former Leicester City defender looked comfortable with the ball at his feet and advanced into offensive positions with real regularity those defensive misjudgements were a little jarring. 6

Fode Ballo-Toure: An accomplished first outing for our AC Milan loanee, who was everywhere in the early stages, seemingly operating like Antonee Robinson on steroids. He dovetailed well with Willian along the left flank and carried the ball forward imperiously – such as when he galloped into oceans of space in midfield and kept going. Tired as the game went on and was replaced by Robinson with twenty minutes to play, but Ballo-Toure fully merited his ovation as he left the field. 7

Issa Diop: The Frenchman used his physicality and reading of the game to give Fulham a strong base to build from at the back. He won plenty of headers in the air and was pretty successful on the floor as well, coming out on top in three tackles. Perhaps his best challenge of the evening on the rampaging Jon Rowe saw the ball break kindly for Sainz to eventually equalise, so fortune was certainly hiding from the former West Ham centre back. 7

Calvin Bassey: Not a good night for the former Ajax defender, whose evening under early after he was taken off with a back complaint. Bassey didn't seize his chance to stake a claim for Tim Ream's spot on the left side of central defence as this was an edgy display, characterised by cagey clearances and unreliable distribution. Silva told the press afterwards that Bassey had previously been dealing with a back injury so he will need to be monitored closely by Fulham's medical derby ahead of the SW6 derby. 5

Joao Palhinha: It was something of a surprise to see the object of Bayern Munich's affections in the starting line-up with what is to come in the league, but Palhinha makes such a difference to the tenacity and quality of Fulham's midfield that you can't blame Silva for shoving him in. The balance of Fulham's midfield was altered with Iwobi playing in the number ten role and Tom Cairney alongside the ex-Sporting schemer, which meant Palhinha had to do more work than he does with Harrison Reed in the engine room. To prove he is human, Norwich's route back into the match game from a poor Palhinha pass – but it didn't prove too costly ultimately. 6

Tom Cairney: Fulham's skipper and peerless playmaker dictated the game effortlessly from that deep-lying central midfield role that suits him perfectly these days. It seemed preposterous that the Canaries gave Cairney, one of the country's finest passes, so much room within which to play – but he took advantage with a number of lovely balls, especially in the first half, whilst his delivery from set-plays was also excellent. 7

Harry Wilson: The Welsh winger does tend to drift in and out of proceedings as a wide man who cuts inside but there were glimpses of his quality in this encounter. He had a hand in Fulham's second, supplying a lovely lay-off for Iwobi, and might have scored himself from a clever corner routine. His volley looked destined for the net but was cleared off the line before having another shot blocked. 7

Willian: The Brazilian veteran roamed with intent from the outset, playing five key passes – the most of anyone – according to the statisticians. Nobody needs reminding just how important Willian is to Fulham's fortunes and there are signs, after an encouraging afternoon at Selhurst Park last weekend, that he's beginning to recapture that form. Clipped in the free-kick for the opening goal and several of his corners led to chances that – if taken – could have led to a much more comfortable evening. 7

Alex Iwobi: A fantastic Fulham debut from a signing that some were certainly very iffy about. Iwobi thrived in the number ten role and his dynamism and invention will certainly give Silva a selection dilemma in the weeks to come. The Nigerian international is far too versatile to merely be considered Andreas Pereira's understudy, but he produced an outstanding display – setting up the first goal for Vinicius before scoring a sumptuous seocnd with a modicum of fuss. 9

Carlos Vinicius: Having been left out at Selhurst Park, Vinicius grabbed his chance to fill his boots against a second-string Championship side. He poached a simpler opener – like against Luton being in the right place at the right foot proved pivotal – and posed problems for the Canaries defence throughout. Could and should have had more, especially when he was played in by Wilson in the second period. 7

Substitutes:

Antonee Robinson: Continued where Ballo-Toure had left off by bombing up and down the left as we've come to expect. He made a crucial defensive intervention to halt a Norwich attack on the death by using his recovery pace to defuse some danger. 6

Rodrigo Muniz: Ran around a lot and was very unfortunate not to score with a bullet header that was brilliantly savved by George Long. 6

Bobby Decordova-Reid: The Jamaican's work ethic is perhaps his strongest attribute and there was no slacking off here with a game to win. 6

Tim Ream: The American saw Fulham through to round four having replaced Bassey for the final ten minutes or so. 6



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/fulham-2-1-norwich-city-player-ratings/

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'We missed many chances to kill the game' – Fulham boss Silva on EFL Cup win over Norwich City
Marco Silva felt his Fulham side should have made easier work of their 2-1 win against Norwich City in the third round of the EFL Cup.

The Whites progressed to the fourth round for just the second time in the last nine seasons, but the Portuguese boss was convinced it should have been a more comfortable night.

Goals from Carlos Vinicius and Alex Iwobi ensured victory for Fulham despite Norwich substitute Borja Sainz pulling a goal back for the visitors.

"We missed many chances to kill the game," said Silva. "Until you take the hope and enthusiasm [away] from these kind of teams, the game is always open.

"I think everyone enjoyed the game but in some moments when you are winning you should have more control. We gave them belief.

"We have created a big number of chances, we have to be more ruthless. We need to be more assertive in moments."

The win ensured Fulham extended their impressive record against Norwich to just one defeat in the last 23 encounters, and they have now not lost to the Canaries at Craven Cottage since January 1986.

They will take on Norwich's local rivals Ipswich Town in the next round of the competition, and Silva said he will continue to approach the competition with respect.

"Our aim is to keep playing in the competition," he said.  "We made seven changes, but we take the competition very seriously. We have a really competitive squad and everyone deserves to play. In some moments we have to rotate."



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/we-missed-many-chances-to-kill-the-game-fulham-boss-silva-on-efl-cup-win-over-norwich-city/

[WhiteJC]

Alex Iwobi backed to be key player for Fulham as boss explains why Willian doesn't need a rest



Marco Silva believes Alex Iwobi will prove to be an important player for Fulham after the new signing starred in last night's EFL Cup third round victory against Norwich.

The Nigerian international set up Carlos Vinicius to open the scoring before notching a goal of his own after the interval in a 2-1 win.

Iwobi has largely played as a winger throughout his career at Arsenal and Everton, but has operated in a more central role since arriving at Craven Cottage.

"He's a player that I know can add for us in many different positions," said Silva, who worked with Iwobi during his time as Everton manager.

"I know him really well, I was responsible for signing him at Everton. His quality and his energy is going to be important for us."

Another Fulham attacker who impressed against Norwich was Willian, who is beginning to recapture the form he showed last season after signing a one-year deal to remain at Craven Cottage in the summer.


Crystal Palace v Fulham Premier League, Selhurst Park, 23 September 2023
Picture : Keith Gillard

The winger made his fourth start of the season after injury problems disrupted the early weeks of the 35-year-old's 10th campaign in English football.

The Brazilian was a regular threat down the left flank, and played 79 minutes ahead of Monday's Premier League encounter with his former side Chelsea.

"Willian needs minutes," said Silva. "He did not have a normal pre-season. He came late [after signing the new contract], the pre-season in America was not the best in terms of pitches. He had some problems with his achilles and lost almost all of the pre-season.

"For a player like him, I know that he needs to be playing every single week.

"Probably at 35 years old, everyone expected him to rest but I think he needs to play games. We have enough time to prepare for the next game and get him in the right condition again.

"The goal hasn't come for him yet, in some moments he probably should have scored, but with him on the pitch our quality is different."

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/alex-iwobi-backed-to-be-key-player-for-fulham-as-boss-explains-why-willian-doesnt-need-a-rest/

[WhiteJC]

Nigeria: EFL - Iwobi Scores First Fulham Goal As Onyeka, Iheanacho Suffer Defeats
While the duo of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey progressed to the next round, Frank Onyeka for Brentford alongside his compatriots Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi were all dumped out of the competition.

There were mixed results for Nigerian players during the EFL games played in England on Wednesday night.

While the duo of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey progressed to the next round, Frank Onyeka for Brentford alongside the Leicester City duo of Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi were all dumped out of the competition.

Iwobi and Bassey progress
Fulham recorded a slim 2-1 win and it was Alex Iwobi's goal that sealed the victory for the Cottagers as they progressed to the next stage.

Fulham having scored in the 12th minute from Carlos Vinicius' finish, the host had to wait for an hour to score their second goal which was Iwobi's debut goal.

Though Borja Sainz scored for Norwich in the 77th minute, it was only a consolation as Fulham held on to progress.

Unfortunately, Calvin Bassey was substituted due to injury in the 83rd minute for Tim Ream.

Onyeka's Brentford loses another derby test

Frank Onyeka's Brentford succumbed to Arsenal, losing by a lone goal to the fellow London side in the EFL Cup.

This was Brentford's first defeat to a London side having drawn against three London sides this season.

Aaron Ramsdale returned to action recording a clean sheet after missing three consecutive games

Eight minutes into the game, the Gunners broke the deadlock after Zanka gave away the ball to Eddie Nketiah who then assisted with a solo pass to Reiss Nelson for Arsenal's opener.

Unfortunately, Frank Onyeka missed a clinical chance to equalise for his team and that miss proved costly as the Bees were dumped out of the League Cup.

Other games
Elsewhere at Anfield, Kelechi Iheanacho and his counterpart, Wilfred Ndidi, failed to progress with their club Leicester as they lost 3-1 to Liverpool.

Although the Foxes started well scoring against the hosts in the fifth minute from Kasey Mcteer's finish to Yunus Akgun's counterpass, the table turned for the visitors in the second half.

Liverpool mustered a comeback with three goals, courtesy of Cody Gakpo, Dominik Szoboszlai and Diogo Jota.

Elsewhere, Chelsea scored their first goal in September after 333 minutes as they pipped Brighton 1-0.

Nicholas Jackson's sublime finish to Cole Palmer's precise pass aided Chelsea's victory over Brighton.



https://allafrica.com/stories/202309280068.html

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva calls on Fulham to develop ruthless streak after Carabao Cup win over Norwich
Cottagers through to the fourth round but manager wants more

Marco Silva wants his Fulham side to be more ruthless after they edged past Norwich in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

Goals from Carlos Vinicius and Alex Iwobi sealed victory for the Cottagers despite Borja Sainz's 75th-minute effort for the visitors.

Manager Silva believes Fulham need to convert more chances after they nearly paid the price for their earlier missed opportunities.

"We had some good moments but we missed many chances to kill the game before and to score more goals," Silva said.

"Until the moment (Iwobi's goal) we did not take the goal and against this type of team who have enthusiasm in this competition the game was tough and was always open.

"We created a big number of chances but we need to be more ruthless and effective.

"We have to finish moments when the ball is inside the box. We had it from the right and from the left so many times.

"We need to be more assertive in those moments because we created enough."

Iwobi's memorable second-half strike was his first Fulham goal since his reported £22million move from Everton on deadline day.

Silva lauded the Nigerian and mentioned the reasons behind signing the midfielder.

"As you know he's a player I know really well and I was responsible for him to sign for Everton as well," Silva added.

"I know what he can do as a player for ourselves in different positions on the pitch.


Silva was keen to bring Iwobi to Fulham after working with him at Everton / Action Images via Reuters

"He has qualities, he's dynamic and his energy as well is going to make him an important player for us."

Norwich manager David Wagner credited his side's performance on a night where they narrowly avoided drawing level and forcing the game to penalties.

He said: "It was good to see us play by our structure and principles. We are a side who can be good against a Premier League side which is still the case even though we made changes.

"It was good and it will give us a major boost for what is in front of us."

Additional reporting from PA



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/marco-silva-fulham-fc-latest-news-2023-b1109970.html

[WhiteJC]

Ballo-Touré: Couldn't Wait To Make Debut

Following his first showing in our 2-1 win over Norwich City in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, we caught up with Fodé Ballo-Touré on his start to life in SW6.

"I was very happy with my first game for Fulham," he started. "I was excited and couldn't wait to make my debut and it went well, we were able to qualify for the next round and we played very well.

"I'm happy as it's been a while since I last played, and I was able to show good energy that I've always possessed, and I hope that I'll be able to show more potential step by step."

Fodé impressed during the game, coming second in the fans' Man of the Match result in what was his first taste of English football.

"It was a difficult game," he said. "They have good players and played a low block and it's hard to play against these types of sides.

"We needed to find solutions to break through their defensive lines and we had many chances, and we were able to make the breakthrough and we won."

Signing for the Club on loan, late on transfer deadline day, Fodé spoke of his enjoyment of working under Marco Silva over the past weeks and how he has settled into the squad.

"He gives me a lot of freedom, he gives instructions and then you must adapt," Fodé said of Marco.

"You follow his instructions and at the same time you play your game and you have many solutions and the manager puts us at ease.

"I already knew Issa, we played together with the French national youth team.

"He helped me whilst I was settling in and I try to get to know my teammates.

"They are also making an effort to try to speak to me in French as I don't speak much English.

"I'm making a big effort in my English lessons to be to be more comfortable to speak with my teammates."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/28/Ballo-Toure-Couldnt-Wait-To-Make-Debut-/

[WhiteJC]

Sheffield United Sold Out: Ticket Exchange Open

Tickets for our Premier League fixture against Sheffield United have now sold out. Thank you for your fantastic support!

The Club can now confirm that the Fulham FC Ticket Exchange is now open, exclusive to 2023/24 Season Ticket Holders & Members (max. one ticket per person).

Fulham welcome The Blades to Craven Cottage on Saturday 7th October, kick-off 3pm.

Season Ticket Holders who are unable to attend can now make their ticket available for other supporters to purchase on the Club's official Ticket Exchange.


WHAT IS THE TICKET EXCHANGE?

Ticket Exchange is the Club's official online resale platform which provides Season Ticket Holders the ability to list their seat for sale for other supporters to purchase at a fixture they are unable to attend. Once a purchaser is found and a sale is made, supporters will receive credit on their account to spend on future ticketing products.

The amount of credit expected to recieve for each ticket is displayed prior to listing your seat for sale.
HOW DO I LIST MY SEAT FOR SALE?

To list your seat on the Ticket Exchange, follow the instructions below:

    STEP 1 - LOGIN TO YOUR ONEFULHAM ACCOUNT
    STEP 2 - SELECT TICKET EXCHANGE ON THE RIGHT HAND NAVIGATION MENU
    STEP 3 - FROM THIS AREA YOU WILL BE ABLE TO VIEW ALL FIXTURES ELIGIBLE FOR THE TICKET EXCHANGE
    STEP 4 - CLICK VIEW DETAILS AND SELECT THE SEAT YOU WISH TO LIST
    STEP 5 - CLICK RESELL TICKET(S) - THIS WILL DISPLAY THE AMOUNT YOU WILL RECEIVE IN CREDIT IF THE TICKET SELLS
    STEP 6 - AGREE TO TERMS & CONDITIONS
    STEP 7 - CLICK PUT ON SALE

LIST MY SEAT
HOW DO I BUY A SEAT ON THE TICKET EXCHANGE?

For fans looking to buy tickets through the Ticket Exchange (adult tickets only), follow the steps below:

    STEP 1 - VISIT TICKETEXCHANGE.FULHAMFC.COM - CREATE AN ACCOUNT IF YOU DO NOT ALREADY HAVE ONE
    STEP 2 - SELECT YOUR SEATING AREA
    STEP 3 - CHOOSE YOUR SEATS, CLICK SELECT AND THEN ADD TO CART
    STEP 4 - COMPLETE YOUR PURCHASE

BUY SEATS

Tickets bought through the Ticket Exchange are strictly non-refundable. Supporters should be aware that availability on the ticket exchange fluctuates and tickets are only available based on Season Ticket Holders listing their seats (Tickets are capped at strictly one per person).

For any further questions regarding the Ticket Exchange, please contact the Ticket Office at [email protected], by phone on 0203 871 0810 (opt. 1) or in person from the Fulham FC Ticket Office.

Full terms and conditions for the Ticket Exchange can be found here.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/28/luton-town-sold-out-ticket-exchange-open/

[WhiteJC]

'I was responsible for him signing for Everton' - Fulham coach says he knows Iwobi really well
Fulham manager Marco Silva has backed Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi to become a vital player for the club.

The Hale End graduate played a vital role in the Cottagers' 2-1 triumph over Norwich City in the third round of the Carabao Cup played on Wednesday night at Craven Cottage.

The 27-year-old made his first start for the club in the encounter and was on the scoresheet and also assisted Carlos Vinicius for the first goal with a precise cross.

It was also his first goal in the competition since he scored against Huddersfield in 2021 while donning the colours of Everton.

Silva knows what Iwobi can offer having worked with him at Everton and is optimistic that he is going to become a significant player for Fulham.

"As you know, he's a player that I know really well. I was responsible for him signing for Everton as well," Silva told Fulham's official webpage post-match.

"A player that I know what he can do for ourselves in many different positions on the pitch.

"He has quality, he's dynamic, and his energy, as well, means he's going to be another important player for us."

Iwobi has now registered 4 goals in 23 appearances since making his debut in the Carabao Cup in 2015.

He will be hoping to make his first Premier League start for Fulham when they host Chelsea on Monday.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=48965

[WhiteJC]

Fuming Fulham supporters slam club for expensive home tickets against Man United
Fulham supporters have been left angry and bitterly disappointed by the club's move to significantly increase ticket prices for their home game against Manchester United.

Fulham are set to host United at Craven Cottage on Saturday November 4.

The clash kicks off at 12.30pm.

The Daily Mail reports that Fulham have raised the price of tickets for the affair by a huge margin – an act that has left fans of the London outfit vexed.

Last time United were hosted by Marco Silva's men, the highest priced ticket stood at £100. This is now valued at £160.

The Mail notes that it initially cost £35 to sit in the family area at Craven Cottage. This price has now risen to £67 for the cheapest option.

Ticket prices for juniors, that is people under the age of 18, range between £31 to a whopping £80.

The Fulham Supporters Trust released a statement criticising the club for their decision, which will limit fans' ability to cheer on their team and support them against Erik ten Hag's men.

The statement read, "The prices for the Riverside Stand are the highest we have ever seen for individual matchday sales and are likely to be financially out of reach for many of those who hold club membership."

"We continue to have concerns that club members, including concessions, are being priced out of attending games. There seems to be a marked increase in matchday ticket prices across London clubs in particular and we will continue to monitor how Fulham compare against our peers."

"Matchday ticket pricing will be an agenda item for our October meeting with the club."

Expectedly fans also took to social media to express their outrage. United's travelling support will also have been hit by the hike in prices in one of the most expensive grounds in the country.



https://thepeoplesperson.com/2023/09/28/fuming-fulham-supporters-slam-club-for-expensive-home-tickets-against-man-united-270182/

[WhiteJC]

Man of the Match Result: Norwich

In addition to marking his full debut with an assist and a goal, Alex Iwobi has also been named Man of the Match from our 2-1 win over Norwich City.

He'd already seen a near post header go over by the time he won the free-kick which led to our opener, drawing a foul the best part of 40 yards out after collecting the ball between the lines.

Willian then picked out Iwobi's run in the box. His ball back across goal took a deflection and may well have found its way in by itself, but Carlos Vinicius made sure on the goalline.

Iwobi would not be denied his goal, though, beautifully placing home a first time right footed shot from 20 yards into the corner of the net, with minimal backlift, from Harry Wilson's lay-off.

47.5% of supporters opted for Iwobi as their standout performer. Fodé Ballo-Touré impressed on his first appearance at left-back, duly coming in second with 13.7%, ahead of Marek Rodák who claimed 11.9%.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/september/28/man-of-the-match-result-norwich/

[WhiteJC]

"Still needs to settle"- Pochettino reveals if summer signing will start for Chelsea against Fulham
Mauricio Pochettino feels Cole Palmer still needs to settle at Chelsea
Mauricio Pochettino has insisted that summer signing Cole Palmer is young and still needs to settle at Chelsea after the attacker produced a game-winning assist to Nicolas Jackson in the Carabao Cup clash against Brighton & Hove Albion.

The 21-year-old was acquired from Manchester City during the closing stage of the summer window for £42.5 million and has already received praise for his display. While still young, he is a talented individual capable of achieving much in his career.

However, the U21 England international has largely played as a substitute. But this time Palmer was in the starting line-up in Chelsea's 1-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion and gave every reason to Pochettino that he should be starting the next game.

The former Manchester City star will be hoping to start the Blues' next game against Fulham on Monday. When asked by Pochettino in a post-match press conference if he would start Palmer in their next game, (h/t Football.London) he said:

    "I think, like all of the team, I think the team was really good. If we assess all of the players, I think we are at a very good level. Cole is a very talented player; he was key to this victory tonight. Still young, he still needs to settle into the club—not only the team but also the club and the city. I think we saw today how good he is."

While most Premier League teams rotate heavily in the League Cup, the same cannot be said of top flight fixtures. Fulham are a dogged side and unless Palmer is ready, he is unlikely to be ready to compete on the front foot.

Palmer was extraordinary against Brighton, and the connection with Nicolas Jackson shows that he is the one who can provide Jackson with opportunities to score goals. Given that Raheem Sterling hasn't been playing at his best lately and Noni Madueke isn't available, the Argentine boss will be prudent to give Palmer another chance to maintain his purple patch.

We have acquired an incredible talent in Palmer, and once he has transitioned well into Pochettino's system and his performances are testament to it. Besides being a creator, Palmer also has an eye for goal, although he hasn't shown at Chelsea but once he starts each game we will surely see that too.



https://www.astamfordbridgetoofar.com/2023/09/mauricio-pochettino-feels-cole-palmer-still-needs-to-settle-at-chelsea/

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea already have perfect Ben Chilwell replacement after injury scare as Fulham change forced
Chelsea news as Mauricio Pochettino faces up to Ben Chilwell injury reality but already has the answer to his problems waiting

And so the questions begin once again for Mauricio Pochettino, even in the face of an undoubted success and probably Chelsea's biggest domestic victory in near enough 18 months. It was with youth, as always, that the Blues took on Brighton and with three of their oldest five players on the field the average age was still just 22.2.

The most senior of these, and wearing the captain's armband, was Ben Chilwell. The 26-year-old, in his natural left-back slot, made-up a fundamental part of a patchwork defence. Alongside Axel Disasi and Levi Colwill with Marc Cucurella shifted to the right, Ian Maatsen coming back from an attacking position to double up on Kaoru Mitoma, Chilwell helped limit Brighton's dangerous play.

The visitors were threatening at times, as you would expect for one of the most well-drilled and in-form teams across the continent, but only truly tested Robert Sanchez twice. In terms of clearcut chances, Chelsea had just as many and could have been in the sunset and away had it not been for two refereeing errors.

Sanchez, who played hot potato with the ball at his own feet throughout the first half, showing Brighton, Roberto De Zerbi, his teammates and perhaps Mauricio Pochettino just why he was eventually relegated to third-choice goalkeeper due to fallibilities in possession, caused his own issues. In the second half the design was more conservative and industrial.

Nicolas Jackson took a lot more high balls down and there weren't many times that the Spaniard dallied or put his teammates under pressure. It was during the opening period that Chilwell, acting with experience and a sense of desperation to avoid total self-sabotage, continuously gestured to his 'keeper to calm down.

It was evidence of just why the England star has become a leading senior figure in the squad not just down to his age. Chilwell is naturally charismatic, talks well and is popular with his teammates. He takes control and has experience only rivalled by Thiago Silva and Raheem Sterling in the current set-up.

It is for this reason that he has taken up the vice-captaincy when around and in the early weeks of the season it has been him, in the absence of Reece James, leading the team out. Against Bournemouth he fronted up to the disappointing away fans, a small minority of whom booed the players at full-time.

There are natural parts of online discourse that see Chilwell as some sort of villain here, someone injured too much and not at the standard to elevate the team. Their arguments haven't been helped Pochettino's pragmatic decision to shift him into an attacking role for the sake on balance on the left, but the rousing reception and cheers of 'Ben Chilwell has won the European Cup' that went around Stamford Bridge on Wednesday show his true popularity.

The issue, as ever with Chelsea and Chilwell, is why he was getting those chants. It was during a walk around the pitch having injured himself sprinting forward for an attack. Not quite in the same pointless way that he was ruled out over Christmas last year following a late sprint against Dinamo Zagreb in a dead rubber, but the feeling was similar.

Chilwell, an undoubted keystone of this side is now doiubt for the upcoming matches against Fulham and Burnley before the international break. "Yes [there was an injury]," Pochettino admitted at full-time. "We need to assess tomorrow but I think it is hamstring."

How do you replace the irreplaceable? Luckily for Chelsea, they have already found a way of working without Chilwell but it involves stunting the left side. Colwill can easily shift back to the flanks but that negates his biggest strength, Mudryk can continue ahead of him having built up some confidence and a semblence of form.

It is elsewhere, and a more natural, like-for-like change that would be more inspiring though. In order to try and carry on the more positive approach, as well as ensuring that Colwill develops centrally as the club hope, keeping an attack-minded full-back could be key.

"What we've seen is that Chelsea have fantastic wing-backs but they've both gone off, first game of the season," Gary Neville said after the first game of the season. "That will destroy Pochettino's plans. If you're going to play wing-backs, they have to be outstanding players of high quality, who attack like wingers and defend like full-backs, and they have that."

If James and Chilwell aren't fit, which they too often haven't been, then it leaves a gaping hole. However, Pochettino also gave just a second start of the season to Maatsen on Wednesday. He has been a substitute late on in games that are being chased, sent on to claw matches back in unfamiliar and unnatural attacking roles due to the injury plague, but against Brighton his role was slightly different.

He operated on the right, as he did in pre-season, and that is not orthodox for a left-sided defender, but was tasked with dropping back and covering against Mitoma. He only touched the ball 29 times and his stats hardly jump out from the page but it is his tenacity even when not in an ideal role that makes him so impressive.

Maatsen has consistently taken a step up in his career when asked and having been one of the standouts for Burnley last season was more than ready to do so again into the Chelsea team. It doesn't take much watching of Maatsen to realise the intelligence that he has.

This is a 21-year-old capable of playing left-back, wing-back, central midfield, attacking midfield or on either wing, relatively seamlessly. For a player that is small in stature, commonly called 'Little Ian' by former Charlton manager Lee Bowyer, he is relentless in the tackle - completing four tackles, the joint second most of anyone on the pitch - and has bundles of energy.

He is quick on the turn and a great technician too. If Chelsea do need to rest Chilwell or front up to another spell without him in the side then Maatsen is not only a good match for his output and attacking instinct but he's also ready. Nicolas Jackson will be out of the side due to suspension, as will right-back Malo Gusto. The time has never been better to turn to Maatsen.



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/chelsea-already-perfect-ben-chilwell-27801994

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Silva: Willian 'needs minutes' rather than rest
Marco Silva insists winger Willian needs frequent football rather than a rest to ensure that he can hit top form for Fulham after an injury-ravaged start to the season.

The veteran Brazilian has started to recapture some of the sparkling form of last season at Craven Cottage by supplying an assist for the winner against Luton Town a fortnight ago, troubling Crystal Palace last weekend with some purposeful running and playing a key part in last night's League Cup victory over Norwich City. Silva played down suggestions that the 35 year-old needs a rest – hinting that he will be likely to play on Monday night against one of his clubs in Chelsea.

"Willian needs minutes. He did not have a normal pre-season. He came late, the pre-season in America was not the best in terms of pitches. He had some problems with his achilles and lost almost all of the pre-season. For a player like him, I know that he needs to be playing every single week.

Probably at 35 years old, everyone expected him to rest but I think he needs to play games. We have enough time to prepare for the next game and get him in the right condition again. The goal hasn't come for him yet, in some moments he probably should have scored, but with him on the pitch our quality is different."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/silva-willian-needs-minutes-rather-than-rest/

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Alex Iwobi: Former Everton and Watford manager backs Super Eagles star to be a hit at Fulham
The Nigeria international is only a few weeks into his days at Craven Cottage

Fulham manager Marco Silva is putting his faith in new signing Alex Iwobi to become a pivotal player for the team following his impressive performance in the EFL Cup third-round clash against Norwich City, Soccernet.ng reports.

Iwobi, the Nigerian international, played a crucial role in Fulham's 2-1 victory, setting up Carlos Vinicius for the opening goal and adding one himself in the second half.

The goal is Iwobi's first for Fulham since his summer transfer from Everton, where he had previously clinched the Players' Player of the Year award.

Still, the Super Eagles playmaker had been perceived to have had a somewhat lackluster stint at Goodison Park which some attributed to Everton's frequent managerial changes.

Silva, who lured Iwobi away from Arsenal to join Everton back in 2019 during his managerial tenure at Everton, expressed his confidence in the player's potential to shine at Craven Cottage.

    "He's a player that I know can add for us in many different positions," Silva stated, as per London News Online, emphasizing his familiarity with Iwobi's abilities.

    "I know him really well; I was responsible for signing him at Everton. His quality and his energy are going to be important for us."

While Iwobi had contributed to 40 goals in 149 appearances during his time with Arsenal, his performance at Everton was more modest, with only nine goals and 16 assists in 140 games across all competitions.



https://soccernet.ng/2023/09/alex-iwobi-former-everton-and-watford-manager-backs-super-eagles-star-to-be-a-hit-at-fulham.html

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Disaster for Chelsea: Ben Chilwell set for scan on hamstring injury as Mauricio Pochettino faces having 11 players unavailable vs Fulham
Ben Chilwell is set for a scan on his hamstring injury as Mauricio Pochettino faces an injury crisis before this weekend's clash with Fulham.

    Chilwell limped off in Carabao Cup victory
    Will undergo scans on hamstring
    Chelsea might be without 11 players against Fulham

WHAT HAPPENED? The wing-back was forced off due to injury in the final minutes of Chelsea's 1-0 win over Brighton in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday evening after he found himself at the receiving end of a crunching tackle from Billy Gilmour. Chilwell has a history of hamstring injuries, including a major one in the previous campaign which saw him miss out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. According to The Times, the latest setback is on the same hamstring and he will undergo scans to determine the extent of the injury.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Chelsea might end up missing 11 players for their trip to Fulham on Monday including suspended players Nicolas Jackson and Malo Gusto. Wesley Fofana, Christopher Nkunku, Romeo Lavia, Trevoh Chalobah, captain Reece James and Marcus Bettinelli have been sidelined with injuries for the long term while Carney Chukwuemeka and Benoit Badiashile have returned to partial training but are yet to reach 100 per cent match fitness.

WHAT NEXT? Chilwell remains a major doubt for Chelsea's trip to Craven Cottage on Monday and might even miss the subsequent fixture against Burnley if scan results are not positive. Levi Colwill is likely to replace him in the left-back position if he fails to make the cut.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/chelsea-ben-chilwell-scan-on-hamstring-injury-mauricio-pochettino/blt842fd35c30ade50f

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Ipswich Town: Kieran McKenna on drawing Fulham in Carabao Cup
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna says he was happy to see his side drawn against Premier League side Fulham, at home, in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

 Tuesday night's superb 3-2 comeback win against top-flight Wolves on Suffolk soil has the Blues in the last 16 of the competition for the first time since 2010/11.

Fulham - currently 11th in the top-tier - will come to Portman Road on Wednesday, November 1 as Town bid to reach the quarter-finals.

"We really liked it," said McKenna, when asked what he made of the draw. " I think a home draw is nice because it's such a busy schedule.   

 "We come back from international duty and have an away game on a Friday night (at Rotherham), so there will be next to no time to prepare for that.

"Then we go away to Bristol (City, in midweek), home to Plymouth, this cup game's going to be on a Wednesday, then we play Birmingham a few days later. 

 "So to have another far away travel would have made that schedule even more challenging.

"It's nice to get a home game and brilliant to get another Premier League club - a well-established Premier League club who've performed well for a few seasons. They'll give us a massive challenge.

"It's a really exciting game at Portman Road that we'll look to go and attack."



https://www.eadt.co.uk/sport/23821036.ipswich-town-kieran-mckenna-drawing-fulham-carabao-cup/

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Enzo Fernandez helps Mauricio Pochettino make Fulham vs Chelsea decision with three-word message
Mauricio Pochettino has several team selection headaches ahead of Chelsea's clash with Fulham on Monday night but midfielder Enzo Fernandez has made his feelings on one player clear

Enzo Fernandez hailed Marc Cucurella as an 'animal' following Chelsea's win over Brighton in the Carabao Cup. The left-back, who was heavily linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge late into the summer transfer window, helped the Blues book a place in the fourth round of the tournament with an impressive performance.

With Reece James nursing an injury and Malo Gusto suspended, Cucurella featured at right-back for Chelsea against his former club. Mauricio Pochettino's decision to operate the Spaniard on his opposite flank raised a few eyebrows, but he quickly silenced his critics.

Cucurella managed to keep Kaoru Mitoma quiet for the best part of an hour before Roberto De Zerbi was left no choice but to replace the winger with Danny Welbeck. After the game, the Chelsea ace marked the victory with a celebratory post on Instagram to which Fernandez commented: "Qué animal (which translates to 'what an animal' in English)."

Thiago Silva and Ian Maatsen also joined Fernandez under the post, commenting several fire emojis. In the post-match press conference, Pochettino was asked for his thoughts on Cucurella and Robert Sanchez's display.

"I think they showed character and personality," said the Blues boss. "I think in the first half sometimes we didn't provide Robert, and sometimes Marc, good angles to play the continuity of the game.

"I think after half-time we fixed some positions and the second half was much better. Even in a difficult moment they showed character and they were calm. Never easy to play with situation and the circumstances and today was a must-win and we needed to win this game

"Of course always is the intensity and sometimes the pressure to win, sometimes is not to be perfect. I think in the second half we dominate the game and deserved the victory."

With James nursing an injury and Gusto suspended, Pochettino finds himself short on options at the back ahead of Chelsea's Premier League clash with Fulham on Monday night. Prior to the Brighton tie, Axel Disasi would have been the most qualified player – on paper – to fill in at right-back.

But, after Cucurella impressed there, the Spaniard could be looked to with Maatsen replacing Ben Chilwell, who picked up a knock towards the end of the Seagulls game.



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/enzo-fernandez-fulham-animal-message-27806497

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Alex Iwobi sends two-word message to James Garner after what he did for Everton v Aston Villa
Alex Iwobi has sent a two-word message to James Garner after he scored for Everton in the victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday (27 September).

The Toffees midfielder posted on Instagram on Wednesday that he was "happy" to score his first goal for the club in the 2-1 Carabao Cup at Villa Park.

The 22-year-old added that he hopes it is the "first of many", with his former Blues teammate Iwobi responding to the post by saying "my guy".

Close
It's clear to see that the pair were pretty close during their time at Everton after Iwobi took the time out to message Garner on the back of him scoring his first goal for the club.

The Toffees man returned the favour by congratulating the Nigeria international after he scored for Fulham against Norwich City on Wednesday, as he responded with "my bro" to the 27-year-old's post on Instagram.

Iwobi also messaged Dominic Calvert-Lewin after he scored the second at Villa Park, so he obviously still cares about how the club is getting on.

The midfielder was one of the Blues' best players last season under Sean Dyche before he decided to leave the club for the Cottagers in a £22million deal towards the end of the transfer window.

The Merseysiders will be hoping Garner can have a similar impact this season after putting in some impressive performances over the past few games.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/09/28/alex-iwobi-sends-two-word-message-to-james-garner-after-what-he-did-for-everton-v-aston-villa/