Saturday Fulham Stuff - 07/10/23...

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Scott Parker keen on next Rangers manager chance but Frank Lampard and Kevin Muscat remain top candidates
The 42-year-old Londoner has been out of work since losing his job at Club Brugge in March after just 67 days in charge

Former Fulham and Bournemouth boss Scott Parker is the latest name to express an interest in the Rangers vacancy.

Ibrox CEO James Bisgrove is leading the club's search for a new manager after Michael Beale was axed on Sunday night. Steven Davis has been placed as caretaker boss but was unable to turn things around last night as Gers crashed to a dismal 2-1 Europa League defeat away to lowly Cypriot side Aris Limassol.

The Northern Irishman, 38, is expected to be in the dugout for the weekend's trip to St Mirren but the Light Blues hope to appoint a new manager by the end of the upcoming two-week international break. It's believed Chelsea legend Frank Lampard and Yokohama F. Marinos boss Kevin Muscat after the top contenders for the role, but the Ibrox hierarchy aren't short of options.

We told earlier this week how experienced Steve Bruce has been put forward to the Rangers board, while the likes of Sam Allardyce and Billy Davies would welcome conversations with Bisgrove and chairman John Bennett.

Now, ex-England international Parker has made it clear he would be keen to take over the Glasgow giants as he looks to get back into management following a brief stint at Club Brugge.

Parker started his managerial career at Fulham and led the club to Premier League promotion in 2020 via the play-offs. However, he was sacked at the end of the following season as the Craven Cottage outfit were instantly relegated back into the Championship.

On the same day, Parker was announced as the new manager of Bournemouth and won back-to-back EFL Manager of the Month awards after a sensational start. He guided the Cherries to Premier League promotion in his debut season but lost his job just four games into the new campaign after fall-out with the board and a humiliating 9-0 defeat against Liverpool.

The Londoner landed a fresh start with Club Brugge last December but lasted just 67 days after winning two of his two games in charge of the Belgian Pro League giants.



https://www.footballscotland.co.uk/spfl/scottish-premiership/scott-parker-keen-next-rangers-27853448

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Fans vs Dementia campaign
As a supporters' trust, we are often contacted by charities for support, and it is challenging to encompass all those we receive requests from. Still, there are often times when campaign, messaging, and need align in a way that we believe our members should hear about. In this case, we want our members to know about the latest campaign from Dementia UK and learn about our club's efforts to help those affected by the disease as part of the 'Fulham Memories' program.

Over 944,000 people in the UK are affected by dementia, and many families are left feeling exhausted, overwhelmed and alone. Dementia UK was started to help these families. With the support of a specialist dementia nurse – whether it's on their Helpline, through their virtual or face-to-face clinics, or in the community – families they support know they're not alone.

This season, Dementia UK is calling on football fans across the UK to sign up for their campaign Fans vs Dementia, inviting them to organise a football-based walk or bike ride to help ensure no one faces dementia alone.

If members would like to take part in a walk to an away London derby this season (most likely possibilities are Chelsea or Brentford away fixtures), please get in touch with us, and we will help organise this event.

Fulham is currently running the 'Fulham Memories' program to help those affected by dementia, with the event also open to anyone suffering from loneliness or similar health issues. It's become popular in the Fulham Foundation's events calendar and is a work highlight for the Foundation's Health Development Assistant, Katrina Webb:

    I love working with all of our Fulham Memories participants, I believe I have the best job in the world. For me, my role is so rewarding; seeing participants laughing together and knowing these sessions are a highlight of their week motivates me to plan more fun and engaging games. It's hard to verbalise how much it means to me personally to see them every week. They make me feel appreciated, but they have no idea how much their happiness means to me. Plus, I have as much fun as they do!"
    Katrina Webb, Fulham Foundation's Health Development Assistant

Dementia UK works in partnership with the Professional Footballers' Association and offers free clinic appointments with specialist dementia nurses for all members of the PFA and their families. Dedicated Admiral Nurse Joe Costello manages this partnership for Dementia UK, himself with 19 years of experience in the mental health sector. As a keen fan, player and coach, he has worked with the football foundation at Newcastle United FC and participated in walking football projects for people diagnosed with dementia.


Please email [email protected] if you would be keen to participate in a fundraising walk or cycle, and let us know which away dates would suit you best.



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2023/10/fans-vs-dementia-campaign/

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Paul Merson fears for Sheffield United and again makes annoying reference as Sutton has his say
Premier League pundits Chris Sutton and Paul Merson can't see beyond a home win this weekend, which Paul Heckingbottom and his players will be hoping to prove wrong

Paul Merson says he 'cannot see where' Sheffield United's first win of the season is going to come from as he makes his prediction for this weekend's fixtures. The Blades make the trip to Fulham for a third successive away match in the capital and are still winless after seven matches.

They are one of only two teams in the division yet to enjoy a victory but Paul Heckingbottom and his players will be hoping that changes tomorrow. He is keen to head into the international break with their season up and running and is returning to the scene of his first away triumph as permanent manager, when Iliman Ndiaye's solo goal was the difference as Sheffield United returned from the league leaders with an impressive 1-0 win.

Last weekend's 2-0 defeat at West Ham saw a much-improved second half display that they can take heart from ahead of the clash at Craven Cottage tomorrow afternoon. However, they have been given little chance by Merson and Chris Sutton, although Mark Lawrenson is the only pundit backing United to get something.

And frustratingly, Merson has again refered to United as just Sheffield on three occasions, which is most annoying for football fans in the city. Here is what the pundits have said about tomorrow's match.

Paul Merson
Writing in his column for Sportskeeda, Merson said: "I don't see where Sheffield can win a game in the Premier League at the moment. It's a funny game - I was saying the same thing about Luton last week, but they did win against Everton. I would be quite shocked if Sheffield avoided the drop this season.

"Fulham were very disappointing against Chelsea, but Sheffield are anything but Chelsea at the moment. I don't see anything but a Fulham victory in this match."

Prediction: Fulham 2-0 Sheffield United.

Chris Sutton
In his weekly predictions for the BBC, Sutton said: "Sheffield United are bottom of the table but will take some heart from the fact they did not lose heavily to West Ham after being taken apart by Newcastle.

"I still struggle to see how the Blades will get anything out of this game, though. Fulham have been up and down so far this season and don't score many, but I've got Raul Jimenez in my Fantasy team and I am backing him to deliver."

Prediction: 1-0

Mark Lawrenson
In his column for Paddy Power, Lawrenson wrote: "There's rumours about Chris Wilder coming back to Sheffield United and nothing surprises you in football anymore. Fulham won't be happy after being beaten by Chelsea so I'll go with a stalemate in this one.

Prediction: 1-1



https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/sheffield-united-sutton-paul-merson-27853743

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Sheffield United boss confirms 'big injury' blow ahead of Fulham
Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom has confirmed that defender John Egan is set for a spell on the sidelines and will miss this weekend's Premier League clash at Fulham.

The 30-year-old defender came off in the 56th minute in last week's 2-0 defeat at West Ham and was replaced by Chris Basham.

Irishman Egan has captained the Blades in the Premier League this season as they still searching for their first three points since winning promotion from the Championship.

"He's out and will be out for a while," said Heckingbottom of Egan.

"It's another big injury for us.

"He's going to be seeing the specialist tomorrow and we will have more of an idea.

"It's a blow, I can't deny that. We want everyone fit. That's an opportunity for others."

Heckinbottom also added that former Everton midfielder Tom Davies is also a doubt.

The Blades are bottom of the table and have a -14 goal difference.

"The mood has been good – it's been fine," added Heckinbottom.

"I thought it was clear against West Ham with what he did well and what we need to do better.

"That's been the sole focus this week – attack as a team and defend as a team.

"Fulham away is a tough game, but we want the points.

"We have had to work so hard to be here and get here, but we want to stay here. We will continue to work hard."



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sheffield-united-boss-confirms-big-injury-blow-ahead-of-fulham/

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Stats underline that Fulham struggling to fill Mitrovic's scoring boots
Fulham's scoring prowess was always going to take a hit after the sale of Aleksandar Mitrovic – and Monday's 2-0 defeat to Chelsea was further evidence they are undercooked in the striking department.

The Whites have scored five goals in their opening seven Premier League matches. By way of contrast, Mitrovic – sold to Al-Hilal for a club record fee in August – had already netted six times at the same stage of last season.

Fulham's xG (expected goals) is 7.04 with only three clubs posting lower numbers – Forest (6.65), Sheffield United (5.57) and Burnley (5.78).

And the worry is that Marco Silva's side are not defensively sound enough to be keeping plenty of clean sheets.

Fulham have collected three so far but the 1-0 win at Everton was heavily indebted to German keeper Bernd Leno, such a crucial cog, while the same outcome against Luton at Craven Cottage saw the newly-promoted visitors hit the post.

Fulham's xGC (expected goals conceded) is 15.3 with only Bournemouth (16.6) and the Blades (17.4) exceeding that.

The lack of serious frontline firepower meant that Chelsea's quickfire first-half double at Craven Cottage, one of them punishing a defensive lapse by Tim Ream, left them with a mountain to climb.

Sasa Lukic did have a chance to cut the deficit in the closing stages but Robert Sanchez was able to stick out a leg to frustrate the Serbian.

Silva did not want to discuss the tactical issues thrown up by Mitrovic's exit but neither of his natural centre-forward options – Raul Jimenez and Carlos Vinicius – are prolific.

Jimenez, inset, has an xG of 0.72 from the 509 minutes he has played since signing from Wolves – just two of his 11 efforts on goal hitting the target. His last Premier League strike goal was in the 2021-22 season.

Vinicius has a lower xG (0.56) but has also only played 75 minutes.

Fulham are heavily reliant on Bobby Decordova-Reid, Alex Iwobi, Harry Wilson and Andreas Pereira to help an underwhelming frontline.



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/stats-underline-that-fulham-struggling-to-fill-mitrovics-scoring-boots/

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Fulham vs Sheffield United: Tom Cairney hopes Blades still suffering with hammering hangover



Tom Cairney believes Sheffield United will be shot of confidence when they face his Fulham side on Saturday after three defeats on the bounce.

Fulham lost 2-0 at home against Chelsea on Monday night and will hope to return to winning ways when they host the Premier League's bottom club.

The Blades were beaten 8-0 at home by Newcastle United a fortnight ago, and a 2-0 defeat against West Ham last weekend left them winless in the league this season.

Skipper Cairney said: "I think everyone has seen the result they had against Newcastle. Sometimes you get those freak results.

"Bournemouth did last year against Liverpool away, it was 9-0. Everyone tipped them to have a really bad season, but they ended up having a really good one.

"Any Premier League team is going to be hard to beat, but we've got to look at ourselves and hopefully go into the international break with a win."

Addressing Sheffield United's thrashing at the hands of Newcastle, Cairney added: "It's got to affect your confidence a bit. It has to — it's a big defeat. But at the same time, it can inspire them to make sure that doesn't happen.

"When I've played Sheffield United over the years, they've always been a hard team to play against. I don't think Saturday will be any different. It'll be a tough, tough game. The spine of their team is still quite old. They've been there a while."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-vs-sheffield-united-cairney-b1111838.html

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Nottingham Forest Scouting Ten Goals In Six Games Star, Fulham Also Keen
Nottingham Forest are scouting VfB Stuttgart centre forward Serhou Guirassy, but they are set to face competition from Fulham for his signature.

The 27-year-old forward joined Stuttgart initially on loan from French outfit Rennes in the summer of 2022 and later made his move permanent in 2023.

Guirassy has begun the season in a sensational manner, finding the back of the net an astonishing ten times in just six Bundesliga outings.

His excellent form in front of goal is drawing attention from the Premier League.

Now, according to German daily Bild, Nottingham Forest have joined the race and are currently scouting the 27-year-old.

Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper wants to improve on his attacking options and the Stuttgart star has caught his eye.

Guirassy has a contract with the German outfit that expires at the end of June 2026 and has a €20m release clause in his contract.

Premier League interest also comes from Fulham, who are keeping a close eye on the Stuttgart man.

Now it remains to be seen whether either Fulham and Nottingham Forest will be interested in triggering his release clause in the winter.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/10/06/nottingham-forest-scouting-ten-goals-in-six-games-star-fulham-also-keen/623079/

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Tom Cairney warns Fulham what to expect from Sheffield United test after highlighting 'old' spine
Cairney warns Fulham not to take Blades result for granted ahead of international break

Tom Cairney, the Fulham captain, has warned his teammates to expect a "tough" game against struggling Sheffield United tomorrow, insisting that the Blades' 8-0 humiliation to Newcastle United last month could motivate them to not suffer the same fate again. The Blades travel to Craven Cottage bottom of the Premier League table and still looking for their first win of the campaign.

They will face a Fulham side coming off the back of a disappointing result of their own, after their 2-0 derby-day defeat to Chelsea on Monday evening. The Blades have had two extra days of recovery, having lost at West Ham on Saturday afternoon, and are determined to get that first three points on the board and go into the upcoming international break with a renewed sense of confidence.

"It'll be a tough, tough game," Cairney said in the build-up. "Everyone's seen the result they had against Newcastle, sometimes you get those freak results in the Premier League. Bournemouth did last year against Liverpool, they lost 9-0 and everyone tipped them to have a really bad season and they ended up having a really good one.

"Any Premier League team is going to be hard to beat but we have to look at ourselves and hopefully go into the international break on the back of a win. It [the Newcastle defeat] has got to affect your confidence a bit, it has to. It's a big defeat but it can inspire them to work hard and make sure it doesn't happen again."

Now 32 and a veteran of this Fulham side, Cairney - a former Blades transfer target - has faced United on several occasions in both the Championship and Premier League and knows the challenge that poses. "When I've played against them in the past they've always been a hard team to play against, so I don't think Saturday will be any different," he added.

"The spine of the team is quite old, they've been there a while and are very experienced in both divisions. Which I think you need. But we've got to concentrate on ourselves, and it's a game we're looking to get three points from."



https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/tom-cairney-warns-fulham-what-to-expect-from-sheffield-united-test-after-highlighting-old-spine-4362288

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Sheffield United message ahead of Fulham with clear plan in mind for Craven Cottage clash
The Blades return to the capital for the third time in four weeks tomorrow when they face Fulham at Craven Cottage

Paul Heckingbottom and his players took plenty of encouragement from their second-half display against West Ham last time out and they plan to take that into tomorrow's game against Fulham. It was a sixth defeat in seven at the London Stadium with the damage done in the space of 13 first-half minutes.

The ease with which the Hammers found the Sheffield United net was a concern and it was a talking point that was addressed at the break by Heckingbottom and his coaching staff. His words had the desired effect, with a much-improved display in the second 45 that left the Blades boss with plenty of food for thought.

He felt there was enough in that game, both good and bad, to spend this week focusing on and with an international break following the clash at Craven Cottage he wants to enter it off the back of a positive display to give them something to cling on to during the two-week lay-off.

What he saw last time out has shaped his plan of attack for tomorrow. He said: "I thought it was clear against West Ham what we did well and need to do better, attack as a team, defend as a team. The intent was there but we were too easy to play against in the first half. We were much more of a threat in the second half and we played in their half more. That's been the focus this week.

"It was a good game for us to get a strong message out of. Fulham will be a tough game but we want the points. I believe our approach at West Ham, defend from the front and attack together, that's what we are striving towards."

Striker Rhian Brewster was back on the pitch for the first time in 11 months when he made a welcome, and given the injury situation at the moment, timely return to the matchday squad. He is also feeling confident despite the form that they can build on Saturday's second half and insists United are going to Fulham with a positive mindset.

"We lost to West Ham but I feel that was just fine margins again," he said. "I feel like we have to pick up where we left off in the second half at West Ham and bring it into Fulham. If we do that it will give us a better chance to win. It's difficult when you are going through a sticky patch. It's been little things, mistakes that you can maybe get away with in the Championship you can't in the Premier League.

"We want to rectify these mistakes. We have been working hard and we are looking forward to the Fulham game. It is a tough place to go but ultimately we will be trying our best to get the three points. We are going to do all we can to go for the win. We are not going to sit back and go for the draw or anything like that."



https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/sheffield-united-fulham-paul-heckingbottom-27852517

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Ipswich (A) Tickets

Tickets for Fulham's Carabao Cup Round Four tie against Ipswich Town will go on sale from Wednesday 11th October, 10am.

Following their 2-1 win over Norwich City in Round Three, The Whites will travel to Portman Road to take on the Championship side on Wednesday 1st November, kick-off 7:45pm.

Tickets for this fixture will be released to 2023/24 Season Ticket Holders (four tickets per person) from Wednesday 11th October, 10am. Before going on sale to 2023/24 Members (four tickets per person) on Friday 13th October, 10am and then to Supporters with Previous Booking History (four tickets per person) on Monday 16th October, 10am.

Adult tickets for this match are priced at £20, with Over 65's and Under 23's tickets priced at £15 and Under 19's priced at £8.

BUY TICKETS FROM WEDNESDAY

Supporters will be able to secure their seats online at tickets.fulhamfc.com or by calling the Fulham FC Ticket Office on 0203 871 0810, or by visiting the Ticket Office in person.

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

More information about this fixture can be found here.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/october/06/ipswich-a-tickets/

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fulham v Sheffield United

TEAM NEWS
Fulham defender Kenny Tete will miss out for a fourth consecutive game with a groin injury.

Tosin Adarabioyo and Adama Traore are also still sidelined with respective groin and hamstring problems.

Sheffield United captain John Egan, who limped off against West Ham last weekend, is set to be "out for a while" according to boss Paul Heckingbottom.

Midfielder Tom Davies, who has come on as a substitute in the Blades' last three matches, is also doubtful.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

    Sheffield United are aiming to make it three straight wins over Fulham for the first time since 1988.
    The Blades' last top-flight away win over Fulham was in March 1968.
    Fulham have won 1-0 on both previous occasions they have hosted Sheffield United in the Premier League.

Fulham

    Fulham have lost two of their three home matches in this season's Premier League, scoring just one goal.
    They have lost six of their past 12 Premier League home games (W4, D2).
    The Cottagers have scored just five goals in their seven league fixtures this season. Their current average of 0.7 goals per game is half what they managed across the whole of the last campaign.
    Fulham's last seven Premier League goals have been scored by seven different players, including all five this season.
    Marco Silva is one short of 50 Premier League wins as a manager.
    Raul Jimenez has gone 30 Premier League appearances without a goal.

Sheffield United

    Sheffield United have lost six of their seven league matches this season, and are yet to win in any competition.
    The Blades have lost all three of their away games.
    They have faced 156 shots in the Premier League this season at an average of 22.3 per game, more than any other side.
    Paul Heckingbottom's team have conceded seven headed goals and nine goals from crosses in the Premier League this season, both more than any other side.
    Benie Traore scored 12 goals in 14 league appearances for BK Hacken in 2023 but has yet to find the net for Sheffield United.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/66969159

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Fulham attempting to steady the ship after a turbulent summer transfer window
The consummate ease with which Fulham avoided Premier League relegation last season, finishing tenth in the table, raised expectations around Craven Cottage this campaign.

However, the summer transfer window subsequently saw the club become victims of their own success with the vultures circling for a number of the side's top talent including manager Marco Silva, talisman Aleksandar Mitrovic and midfield lynchpin Joao Palhinha.

Maintaining two out of three may not have been a bad return (Mitrovic joining Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal in a club record deal for Fulham) but the uncertainty it brought continued right up until deadline day with Bayern Munich's failed pursuit of Palhinha.

There's no doubt Palhinha will continue to attract attention, with the club moving swiftly to sign the 28-year-old onto a new, improved contract alongside new deals for Willian and Harrison Reed as well.

The trio have been joined by a host of new arrivals with Ajax defender Calvin Bassey being the stand-out signing and natural, long-term successor to the ageing Tim Ream.

Timothy Castagne (Leicester), Alex Iwobi (Everton) and Adama Traore (Wolves) have also brought much-needed strength in depth to a side which at times looked short of options in key areas.

Fulham may only have accrued eight points from seven games but when considering the calibre of opponents they have faced (Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester City, Chelsea), it's a reasonable return from a tough start.

Nevertheless, without Mitrovic, goals have been hard to come by with Fulham scoring the same amount (5) as bottom of the table Sheffield United and AFC Bournemouth and only one of those coming from a recognised striker (Carlos Vinicius).

Raul Jimenez has been brought in as one solution but question marks remain over the Mexican's long-term impact following his horrendous head injury he suffered back in 2020.

Jimenez's arrival has seen Silva tweak Fulham's formation to a 4-3-3, bolstering the midfield as opposed to the previous 4-2-3-1 line-up that often saw Mitrovic utilised as the lone striker.

Regardless of Jimenez's own goal scoring issues, he was never going to be a like-for-like replacement for Mitrovic, preferring the ball played to his feet or finding spaces to run in behind defences.

There is a general feeling that another striker in the mould of Mitrovic is still needed, either in the January window or next summer but in the meantime the squad has enough to remain competitive and consolidate their Premier League position.

Given the pre-season uncertainty and the tough start to the season, Fulham's next game at home to Sheffield United appears even more important.

A good win will see the Cottagers sign off ahead of the international break in a solid position before another tricky run of fixtures.

Should three points be achieved, Silva's side will hopefully be able to finally put the summer distractions behind them and kick on – anything less and question marks could slowly begin to be raised.



https://londonfootballscene.co.uk/2023/10/06/fulham-attempting-to-steady-the-ship-after-a-turbulent-summer-transfer-window/

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Sheffield United Matchday Preview

Fulham v Sheffield United | Saturday 7th October | 3pm | Craven Cottage | #FULSHU

The opposition

    It's been a tough start to life back in the Premier League for Sheffield United. They are one of only two teams – along with AFC Bournemouth – yet to win a match, with a solitary draw at home to Everton keeping them bottom of the table.
    A harrowing 8-0 loss to Newcastle United in their last home game has done their goal difference no favours. They were improved in their last outing, but still slipped to a 2-0 defeat at West Ham United.
    One positive to come from the trip to London Stadium was a return to action for Rhian Brewster, with the striker coming on for the final 10 minutes – his first competitive runout in almost a year.

Fulham team news

Of our injured trio, Kenny Tete is closest to a return, but will not make the weekend. Adama Traoré is three to four weeks away, while Tosin is also absent.

Sheffield United team news

Captain John Egan is set for a period on the sidelines after coming off injured at West Ham with a leg issue. He joins George Baldock, Will Osula, Rhys Norrington-Davies, John Fleck and Max Lowe in the treatment room.

Tickets

Another match to have long been sold out – thank you again for your unwavering support!

Weather

It's going to feel like summer in SW6 this Saturday, with the sun out and temperatures around 23 degrees at kick-off.

Player insight

Tom Cairney knows that the Blades may well still be hurting from their recent 8-0 home defeat by Newcastle, but insists they will be doing everything in their power to avoid any repeats.

"I think it's got to affect your confidence a bit, it has to," he told FFCtv. "It's a big, big defeat, but at the same time it could inspire them to work hard and make sure that doesn't happen again.

"When I've played Sheffield United over the years, they've always been a hard team to play against, so I don't think Saturday will be any different."

Coverage

FFCtv subscribers can listen to live commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid.

Travel disruption

Fans who travel via Putney train station are advised that the final leg of your journey may have to be made by rail replacement bus service.

Period of applause

There will be a period of applause on 16 minutes in loving memory of young fan Freddie Haynes.

Forever Fulham

Former winger Clive Walker will be introduced to the crowd at half-time to receive his Forever Fulham award.

Fulham Flutter

Win prizes while supporting the Foundation by playing the Fulham Flutter!

Bag policy

Bags larger than A4 in size will not be permitted entry to the stadium. Please see our bag policy for full details, and information on our left luggage facility.

Early bird

Fans can take advantage of our early bird offers until 2.30pm! Full price reductions across all items can be viewed here.

No Room For Racism

Saturday's game is one of our No Room For Racism fixtures, meaning players will take the knee ahead of kick-off, while NRFR branding will be on view around the stadium throughout the day.

Form

Fulham: LWDWL

Sheffield United: D*DLLL

*Lost on penalties

Top scorers

Fulham: Carlos Vinicius (2)

Sheffield United: Gustavo Hamer (2)

Matchday programme

Harrison Reed, who signed an extension to his contract at Craven Cottage and made his 150th Fulham appearance last month, is the subject of the main interview in the matchday programme for the visit of Sheffield United.

"It was an amazing feeling to know that the Club wants me here for the long-term," reflects Reed. "I had entered into the last year of my contract and it was a situation I wanted to resolve. There was always the desire from myself to sign a new contract and the Club's ambition aligned with mine. I'm obviously happy and excited about the future here at Fulham."

Elsewhere in the programme, Bernd Leno selects a five-a-side team based on the best players he has played against during his career in 'Bunch of Fives'. Ahead of the international break, the Belgium national team – and their Fulham connections – are the subject of Cathryn Greeves' 'Euro Zone' feature, while Gentleman Jim pens his latest column.

You can pick up a copy of the programme on the day or online.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/october/06/sheffield-united-matchday-preview/

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Before The Whistle: Fulham v Sheffield United

As Fulham fans, there's something fundamentally uncomfortable about being the favourites going into a game.

Bottom side Sheffield United visit the Cottage this weekend, giving us a chance to bounce back from our SW6 derby defeat but, as with Luton last month, we're almost in a no-win situation. Regardless, three points is the only palatable outcome.

There are question marks over Antonee Robinson, with USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter leaving him out of his squad for the upcoming international break citing a groin injury. With Timothy Castagne still covering for Kenny Tete, this may give Fode Ballo-Toure a chance to deputise and give Jedi a longer chance to recover.

Up top, the age-old debate continues. But with Jimenez subbed on 52 minutes against Chelsea, it could well be time for Vini to start against the Blades. Calls for Iwobi to come in and give Andreas Pereira a bit of a break continue to grow louder, but don't expect too many changes in one go from Marco.

If there was to be a final change, then it could be Calvin Bassey coming in for Tim Ream. Our American stalwart continues to fall a bit short of the (admittedly high) bar set for him, and after his high-profile clanger on Monday, he may well make way.

It's a big chance to get more crucial points on the board ahead of the international break. Let's hope the boys take it. You Whites.
ℹ️ MATCH DETAILS

Kick-Off: Saturday, 3.00PM
Stadium: Craven Cottage
Competition: Premier League
TV Channel (UK): None
🚦 LEAGUE FORM

Fulham: ❌ ⬜ ❌ ✅ ⬜ ❌
Sheffield Utd: ❌ ❌ ⬜ ❌ ❌ ❌

⚖️ MATCH PROBABILITY

Fulham: 47.1%
Draw: 29%
Sheffield Utd: 23.9%

🥊 MOST RECENT MATCHES

May 22: Sheffield Utd 4-0 Fulham
Dec 21: Fulham 0-1 Sheffield Utd
Feb 21: Fulham 1-0 Sheffield Utd
Oct 20: Sheffield Utd 1-1 Fulham



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-10-06-before-the-whistle-fulham-v-sheffield-united/

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Fulham boss Silva confirms Tete injury blow
Fulham boss Marco Silva has confirmed right-back Kenny Tete could be sidelined for longer than expected with a groin problem.

The Dutch defender has missed two matches after suffering the injury in the late stages of the 1-0 win over Luton last month.

It was hoped Tete would be fit to return straight after next week's international break, but Silva has indicated that now looks unlikely.

"Kenny is taking more time that we thought with his groin, so let's see. We will keep assessing him," Silva said.

"It's a week-by-week, day-by-day thing to see if he is getting better.

"Today he was doing injury recovery work with (performance manager) Bruno Mendes, so let's see when he is back."

Fulham are also still without Adama Traore and Tosin Adarabioyo, with the winger recovering from a hamstring problem and Tosin recuperating after groin surgery.

"Adama will be another three weeks but he will be back before Tosin," Silva explained.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-boss-wls-silva-confirms-tete-injury-blow-and-gives-updates-on-traore-and-tosin

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There's only one Maddy Cusack
It's taken me a couple of weeks to find the courage to write this piece. Ahead of Sheffield United's visit to Craven Cottage this weekend, it felt appropriate to pay tribute to one of football's finest who was taken far too soon.

I first met Maddy Cusack by accident seven years ago. I was asked by an old friend to give a talk to journalism students at the University of Derby, but in a classic Crawford mix-up walked into the wrong room. Instead, of the room full of students and their lecturer I was promised, I was met by a marketing student, who was packing away her stuff. Maddy realised my mistake before I did and walked me down the hall to the right location. She smiled, wished me luck, and I imparted what little wisdom I've acquired to the correct lecture theatre.

An hour later, I was surprised to see the same young lady return to the empty room. When I asked her why, she said: 'I noticed you had some trouble walking so I wanted to make sure you were okay'. Kindness like that is far from common these days, so I thanked her and as we walked into the sunshine, she asked why I'd visited. I told her that I was worked in the media, writing mostly about football, and had come to talk to some students. We talked a bit about the game, and she shared that she was a tenacious midfielder in the kickabouts she had with her friends.

That was Maddy to a tee. She was bubbly, bright but also humble – the very antidote to a flashy footballer. She could have told me that she'd already been a successful member of the Nottingham Forest academy before signing for Aston Villa or that she played for England's under-19s at the European Championships. It was only when I was fortunate enough to be given an opportunity to cover women's football that I encountered the very same Maddy Cusack as an energetic engine room enforcer for Birmingham City and then Leicester City. When I challenged her on why she didn't tell me about her talent when we met on campus, she told me that she always wanted her football to do the talking.

It did. Cusack was the sort of player every successful side needs. She relished a tackle and did the hard, unglamorous yards in the middle park, but nobody could discount her terrific technical ability. Something of a set-piece specialist, she was a threat with the ball at her feet, scoring several stunning goals over the course of a career that was tragically cut short only months after she had put pen to paper on a long-term contract at Brammall Lane. But her peerless playing ability was only one element of why Maddy's loss has devastated those who knew her.

Maddy made more than a century of first-team appearances for the Blades and was the heartbeat of a side who she probably would have taken into the Super League by the sheer force of her personality alone. But her association with the Blades went deeper than wearing the renowned red and white stripes with distinction. She spent more than two years with United's award-winning Community Foundation and threw herself into vital work across the Steel City, including in education and as part of the life-changing Premier League Kicks programme, before moving into a marketing role with the football club.

I only covered one game at Brammall Lane as a journalist but was greeted by Maddy's mega-watt smile as I sought to enter the press area. 'We don't normally admit cheeky cockneys,' she said teasingly, before making an exception for this correspondent. I know from my colleagues that she was as effective in marketing and media as she was in midfield, which is the highest compliment to pay someone who never stopped running. She would do anything for her team-mates and her friends and would be the person you'd be pick to have alongside you when the chips were down.

She was a fantastic ambassador for football and the breadth of the tributes since the sad news was released reminded us of two things: the reach of the women's game and what a classy, community club the Blades are. United commemorated her movingly on the pitch, as the men's side wore shirts emblazoned with her name and number, before their game against Newcastle United last week, with her family flanked by legendary winger Tony Currie and women's skipper Sophie Barker before the fans did their bit: singing for Cusack throughout the eighth minute in recognition of the shirt number she wore with distinction.

Her close friends and family will be able to tell you more about Maddy that I ever could, but I keep coming back to how fortunate I was to walk into the wrong room at the University of Derby. If I hadn't, I might never have met the magnificent Maddy Cusack, who left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Sleep well, Mads, we'll miss you more than you could ever know.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/theres-only-one-maddy-cusack/

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Pre-Sheffield United Press Conference

While Sheffield United are looking to end a run of three successive defeats – in which they've shipped 12 goals – Marco Silva insists Fulham will be equally as motivated to provide a reaction on Saturday.

A below-par opening 45 minutes against Chelsea on Monday ended up costing us dearly, and our Head Coach is looking for more consistency throughout games going forward.

"For sure, they want to react from the last ones, but we want the same, we want to react from the last match against Chelsea and we want to fight really hard for the three points, and we want to play better than the last one," Silva said.

"We cannot repeat that first half. Second half was completely different against Chelsea but we have to really start different and be more consistent during the 90 minutes instead of just reacting second half, which is what we want to see tomorrow on the pitch.

"It's always tough against Sheffield United, we know how they come here always with the two strikers, in any moment of the game ready to try to punish you.

"They have the capacity, even if you press them high, to go more direct for one of the target men, and after to explore in behind. They prepare well for second balls and they are always a threat in set-pieces as well.

"We have to be really focused on the game and, of course, put the game in the areas that we are strong, and to play in our way."

The Blades made unwanted headlines last month when they were beaten 8-0 at home by Newcastle United, but Silva knows it would be foolish to underestimate our opponents.

"We will have to work really hard to win the game," he stated. "That's the way that we have to think, is the way that our fans have to approach the game as well, and our players.

"We have to really respect Sheffield United, they want to really get a good result to achieve what they want from the match, and we want the same.

"At the end, it's going to be another Premier League game for us and we have to really concentrate on the game, focus on our role in the plan that we have for the match, to win the football match.

"Of course, if you ask me about the result, I would like to win with a clean sheet if I can, that is the main thing for us, because it's important for us to be solid as a team, and compact.

"And, of course, at the same time we have to work really hard to create chances to win the football match and to score goals."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/october/06/pre-sheffield-united-press-conference/

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'Can score from anywhere': Morgan Gibbs-White says Fulham have a player who is lethal
Morgan Gibbs-White has reserved some special praise for Raul Jimenez.

Speaking on the Premier League's YouTube channel, the Nottingham Forest midfielder was discussing a few Premier League stars as he was asked to pick between a few hypothetical 3vs3 teams.

Jimenez was a part of a team alongside Conor Gallagher and Serge Aurier, and Gibbs-White was very tempted to choose this team as his favourite due to Jimenez's ability.

Gibbs-White, of course, played with the Mexican at Wolves, and he thinks that the striker is the type of player who can score from absolutely anywhere.

Jimenez is lethal
Gibbs-White gave his verdict on the Fulham striker along with a few other Premier League players.

"That first team is very athletic, Levi can play with the ball, Anthony is fast and Sander is a war house, but then you have Raul again who can score from anywhere and Conor who is a runner, he's got that energy," Gibbs-White said.

Has he still got it?
Gibbs-White is absolutely spot on, during his time at Wolves, Jimenez could score from anywhere and he was one of the best strikers in the Premier League.

However, it's been three years since Gibbs-White spent a full year playing alongside Jimenez, and a lot has changed since then.

The Mexican has gotten older and suffered a career-threatening injury, and, sadly, that's affected his game.

He's yet to score a single goal for Fulham, and, in all honesty, he's not threatened to break his duck since the opening day of the season when he struck the woodwork against Everton.

Jimenez used to have the ability to score spectacular goals on a regular basis, but we're not sure if he's still got it.



https://www.fulham.news/2023/10/06/can-score-from-anywhere-morgan-gibbs-white-says-fulham-have-a-player-who-is-lethal/

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Fulham vs Sheffield United Preview: Probable Lineups, Prediction, Tactics, Team News & Key Stats
Fulham will aim to get back on track in their Premier League journey when they face Sheffield United and their under-pressure boss, Paul Heckingbottom.
The loss on Monday at the hands of local rivals Chelsea ended Fulham's three-game winning run at Craven Cottage. It also allowed the Blues to leapfrog the Cottagers in the table, leaving Marco Silva in 13th place ahead of an important weekend. But Fulham need to improve considerably when they take on Sheffield United on Saturday.

Despite the positives around Fulham's season so far, the shortcomings under Silva have taken centre-stage. In seven games, the Cottagers have managed to score only five times and only multiple times in one game so far. The absence of Aleksandar Mitrovic is all too clear, and their inability to properly replace him might cost them dearly this campaign.

Hence, Silva will look forward to a game of this magnitude, particularly against league strugglers Sheffield United. It is a glorious opportunity to cement their place in mid-table and head into the international break with something to work on.

The only positive Paul Heckingbottom may look at ahead of their visit to Fulham is their opposition's goalscoring record. The duo, alongside Bournemouth, have the joint-worst attacking record this season, and it may come as a challenge for the Blades manager to disprove some doubters.

His critics have doubled down since their brutal 8-0 loss at home against Newcastle United and then the defeat at West Ham United a week later. There is much work to be done for Sheffield United to climb out of their misery from the bottom of the table, with things looking bleak for their chances of survival as well as that of their manager.

Heckingbottom's job may have come under scrutiny, and the club's board will hope for an upturn in form. Their fans will feel no sense of optimism as the Blades take on Manchester United and Arsenal after the break. Hence, a good result against Fulham seems imperative to build on, as Sheffield United have nothing to show for so far this term.

Team News & Tactics
Fulham
Marco Silva did not encounter any new problems with fitness or injury after the Chelsea game and may have a similar set of players ready for the Sheffield United clash. On the positive side, Sasa Lukic made a brief cameo without any problems, as he had only returned from a knee problem.

Kenny Tete remains sidelined with an unspecified problem and missed the derby last Monday. The fullback might be absent for another game, as Silva will hope he recovers completely during the international break. Adama Traore and Tosin Adarabioyo are the other two players missing out of action at the moment.

Timothy Castagne will continue to take up Tete's spot at right-back, while Issa Diop and Tim Ream are best placed to keep their defensive partnership intact. Calvin Bassey remains an option, but the defender continues to learn each week and may have a run after the international break if Silva deems it right.

Silva could make two changes to his lineup, with Alex Iwobi likely to take Willian's position down the left-hand side of the attack. The Brazilian has not been up to the mark this season, and Silva will likely give the former Everton star his chance to shine. The other one could see Carlos Vinicius replacing Raul Jimenez

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, Diop, Ream, Robinson; Reed, Palhinha; Wilson, Pereira, Iwobi; Vinicius

Sheffield United
Paul Heckingbottom confirmed key defender John Egan will miss many games and remain out for a while since suffering an injury against West Ham United. Including the centre-back, the Blades could miss as many as eight players for their trip to Craven Cottage.

Chris Basham could get the nod to replace Egan in the defensive setup, as he remains ahead of Auston Trusty in the pecking order. Anel Ahmedhodzic and Jack Robinson will also play in that back three, while Jayden Bogle and Luke Thomas will cover at wing backs.

James McAtee remains the firm choice to sit at the base of this Sheffield United midfield, with Gustavo Hamer and Vinicius Souza on either side. Heckingbottom will once again rely on his front two attackers, with Oliver McBurnie and Cameron Archer primed to take up those positions in this team.

Probable Lineup (3-5-2): Foderingham; Ahmedhodzi, Basham, Robinson; Bogle, Hamer, McAtee, Souza, Thomas; Archer, McBurnie

Key Stats

    There have been under 2.5 goals scored in Fulham's last 3 games in the Premier League.
    Fulham have the joint-worst attacking record this season alongside Sheffield United and Bournemouth.
    Sheffield United have conceded at least two goals in their last six matches in the Premier League.
    Sheffield United have lost six of their last seven matches in the Premier League.
    Sheffield United and Fulham have scored only five goals this season.

Player to Watch
Alex Iwobi
The Nigerian international made the move to Fulham from Everton, and so far, fans have only seen glimpses. Marco Silva has bide his time to get him into action since his transfer. But the game against Sheffield United might seem like the perfect opportunity to bring him into the team.

He was good during their Carabao Cup victory over Norwich City, where Iwobi also got on the scoresheet. Hence, Silva would hope for a repeat of that performance in the league, as Fulham desperately lack a game-changer in their team.

Prediction
Fulham 2-0 Sheffield United
The pressure is truly on Paul Heckingbottom and his Sheffield United players to prove things on the pitch. Back-to-back defeats in the league have pinned them to the bottom of the table, and a look at the fixture list would only make a Blades fan worry about further disappointments.

Fulham will likely take advantage of the situation to make their mark and possibly put their best performance of the season against the hapless Blades. The Cottagers are overwhelming favourites to take three points and build something before the international break at the expense of Sheffield United.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2023/10/06/fulham-vs-sheffield-united-preview-probable-lineups-prediction-tactics-team-news-key-stats/

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Tete to miss Blades battle
Fulham full back Kenny Tete will miss tomorrow's meeting with Sheffield United at Craven Cottage and could be sidelined after the international break, according to head coach Marco Silva.

Silva had hoped that the Dutch international would be available for selection this weekend having missed Fulham's last three fixtures with a groin injury picked up in training but Tete's recovery has taken longer than the club had initially predicted. The Fulham boss told his pre-match press conference this afternoon:

"Kenny is taking more time that we thought with his groin, so let's see. We will keep assessing him. It's a week-by-week, day-by-day thing to see if he is getting better. Today he was doing injury recovery work with Bruno Mendes, so let's see when he is back."

The Portuguese head coach will also be without long-term injury victim Tosin Adarabioyo and Adama Traore, whom Silva expects to be out 'for another three weeks'.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/tete-to-miss-blades-battle/