Monday Fulham Stuff - 09/10/23...

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Results

Sunday
Brighton	2-2	Liverpool
West Ham	2-2	Newcastle
Wolves	1-1	Villa
Arsenal	1-0	Man City

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Bassey's injury scare is over: Fulham defender fit to report for Super Eagles duty on Tuesday
Fulham central defender Calvin Bassey is fit to join up with his Nigeria teammates at their training camp in Faro, Portugal on Tuesday ahead of the October internationals against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

Initially, the Leicester City academy product had been rated as doubtful for the two friendly matches after he was forced off injured in the closing minutes of Fulham's Carabao Cup win versus Norwich City on September 27.

Five days after the clash with the Canaries, he was a non-playing substitute as Fulham were beaten by Chelsea in a West London derby.

Bassey's injury scare is over as the versatile defender was in action for the Cottagers on Saturday, coming off the bench in the 71st minute to replace the injured Issa Diop as Marco Silva's men returned to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over Sheffield United.

Nigeria manager Jose Peseiro has to deal with fitness issues in defence before Friday's friendly against Roberto Mancini's Saudi Arabia.

Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi didn't make the squad due to a muscle injury, central defender Semi Ajayi has not figured for West Brom since rolling his ankle in the home game against Millwall on September 23, while Gent star Jordan Torunarigha recently recovered from a knock which kept him out of Thursday's Europa Conference League meeting with Maccabi Tel Aviv.

The most worrying part for Peseiro is the muscle injury suffered by in-form Nottingham Forest fullback Ola Aina who has the ability to play in multiple defensive positions.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel



https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=49065

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Nottingham Forest transfers: Cooper targets explosive striker signing in January but Fulham also lurking
Nottingham Forest continue to be linked with Vfb Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy, as Steve Cooper looks to bolster his attacking options at the City Ground.

The Premier League club were known to be looking at the Bundesliga star in the summer and it appears those links are refusing to go away ahead of the January transfer window.

Guirassy has started the new campaign in superb form, scoring 10 goals in just six games as Stuttgart sit second in the Bundesliga table.

Indeed, he notched eight goals with eight shots on target in his first four league games – something no Stuttgart player has ever done before.

The 27-year-old has already played for a number of clubs in his career so far and signed a three-year deal with Stuttgart over the summer after shining in an initial loan spell from Rennes.

The Bundesliga's official website has compared him to former England and Leicester striker Emile Heskey, saying: "Heskey's strong presence, pace and sometimes powerful finishing mirrors that of Stuttgart's in-form forward. In a similar style to Heskey, Guirassy is a powerful presence in the air, boasts good close control and is capable of playing out wide to add to his team's options."

It's being claimed that within the next year a £17million release clause in Guirassy's contract will become active, meaning he could be available for a bargain price in today's market.

Stuttgart, however, are likely to fight to keep the player in January, especially if their strong start to the season continues.

Fulham also in mix for Stuttgart striker
The Forest target is also said to have held talks with Fulham over the summer but decided on staying in Germany and signing a permanent deal instead.

The player has also addressed all the speculation surrounding his future, hinting that he would eventually be open to moving to England.

"We (Stuttgart) have a good team, a good coach and incredible fans," he said. "We feel very comfortable as a family in Stuttgart. That's why I decided to stay at VfB."

Asked if it was his dream to play in the Premier League, he added: "Not exactly a dream. But if there is an option to move to the Premier League at some point, why not? But it's not like I dream about it every day."

Cooper is looking for another central striker, given that Divock Origi is only on loan at the City Ground.

The Forest boss does have Taiwo Awoniyi and Chris Wood to call on but neither are particularly prolific, hence Cooper looking at different options.

Forest are back in action on October 21 when they host Luton in the Premier League after the international break.



https://www.teamtalk.com/nottingham-forest/transfers-cooper-targets-explosive-striker-signing-january-but-fulham-also-lurking

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USMNT star Tim Ream earns plaudits on social media for his classy reaction to Chris Basham's horror injury during Fulham vs Sheffield United clash
USMNT star Tim Ream has earned praise for his classy reaction to the injury suffered by Chris Basham during Fulham's clash with Sheffield United.

    Blades star damaged ankle
    Cottagers captain by his side
    All fans appreciate gesture

WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Blades defender is facing up to a lengthy spell on the sidelines after seriously damaging his ankle during a Premier League fixture at Craven Cottage. Basham went over under no pressure, as he sought to play the ball back to his goalkeeper, and it was immediately clear that he had picked up a sickening injury.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Ream was among the first to tend to Basham as he lay stricken on the west London turf, with the United States international doing his best to calm his domestic rival before medical staff arrived. The Fulham skipper has been hailed for his actions, with one Blades fan posting on social media: "A touch of class from Tim Ream, the closest to Bash when he went down and stayed with him until, and after, medical attention arrived. Hope he gets some recognition from the fans when #ffc come to Bramall Lane." Another added: "Tim Ream going above & beyond in this moment. Whilst others looked away (understandably), he stayed with Bash for what must've seemed like a lifetime."

A touch of class from Tim Ream, the closest to Bash when he went down and stayed with him until, and after, medical attention arrived. Hope he gets some recognition from the fans when #ffc come to Bramall Lane 👏🏼 #sufc #twitterblades (📸 @sportimage) pic.twitter.com/dAemDcBXAJ

— Danny Hall (@dannyhall04) October 8, 2023

Tim Ream going above & beyond in this moment. Whilst others looked away (understandably), he stayed with Bash for what must’ve seemed like a lifetime. 🙏🏻 https://t.co/Zhr3PXvxUb

— Simon Binns ⚔️🔴⚪️ (@simon_binns) October 7, 2023

DID YOU KNOW?

Further praise for Ream read: "Absolute quality and just goes to show you what type of person Tim Ream is.. RESPECT." Another said: "Tim Ream, what a man. While everyone walks off after seeing Basham's horrible injury, Ream was there with him until the doctors and physios came over." There were also lots of "Tim Ream appreciation post" entries across social media.

Absolute quality and just goes to show you what type of person Tim Ream is.. RESPECT 👏👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/pXmQJycVWU

— Mark Thulbourne (@MThulbourne) October 7, 2023

Tim Ream appreciation post btw 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/HnLDAwXBNo

— Gem Tollerfield ⚔️ (@TheBladette) October 7, 2023

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom told BBC Sport when delivering an immediate update on Basham after the game in question came to a close: "He was not in a state to speak. He was on gas and air when he left and he is in hospital now. Everyone could see it was a horrendous injury. He is with the right people now he is in hospital. We will touch base and see how he is. Our thoughts are with him. Injuries like that we never want to see, and it does affect the feeling in the football stadium when something like that happens, without a doubt."



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/usmnt-tim-ream-plaudits-social-media-classy-reaction-chris-basham-horror-injury-fulham-sheffield-united/bltc09e61324cab6873#cs54cd77bcd56b943c

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Fulham player ratings from 3-1 win over Sheffield United – Willian looks back to his best while Palhinha once again dominates midfield



Fulham got back to winning ways with a deserved 3-1 win against struggling Sheffield United.

A flurry of second-half goals saw Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Willian both find the net either side of a Wes Foderingham own goal after an Antonee Robinson own goal had drawn the visitors level.

 Here are Dan Evans' player ratings from Craven Cottage.

 Bernd Leno – 6

 Barely had anything to do all afternoon, making just two saves and both were comfortable catches from soft Oli McBurnie headers. Nothing he could have done about Robinson's own goal.

Timothy Castagne – 6

Another who was rarely troubled for much of the 90 minutes as Sheffield United struggled to threaten the Fulham defence. Went about his business with minimal fuss though and continues to be a capable stand-in for Kenny Tete.

Issa Diop – 5

Had a good game until the incident leading up to the Sheffield United goal. Won the majority of his aerial duels while making a number of good tackles and interceptions. May be slightly harsh to blame him for the equaliser as he pulled up injured, but giving the ball away in such a dangerous area and leaving the defence a man light proved costly. Replaced by Calvin Bassey straight after the goal.

Tim Ream – 7

 A good showing from the centre-back following his nightmare against Chelsea last time out. Was back to his best in possession and also contributed three tackles as he dominated his individual battle with McBurnie. A fine way to mark his 300th Fulham appearance.

 Antonee Robinson – 5

Another who was having a good time of it until the Sheffield United equaliser. Was in the wrong place at the wrong time in turning home a Yasser Larouci cross but probably should have sorted his feet out to deal with it better. Was a constant attacking threat in the first half as he bombed down the left flank but faded after the interval.

Alex Iwobi – 6

Played a big part in Fulham's fast start to the game as he combined well with Andreas Pereira and orchestrated attacks from his role in the centre of the park. Was perhaps guilty of overplaying at times but his ability in possession brings a new dimension to Fulham's midfield.

Joao Palhinha – 7

A typically assured performance from Fulham's midfield enforcer. Was arguably given a harder task than usual with the adventurous duo of Iwobi and Pereira stationed in midfield alongside him but did not seem flustered. Once again finished the game having made more tackles (seven) than any other player on the pitch. Only mistake was a rash challenge on McBurnie which earned him a booking.

Andreas Pereira – 7

Guilty of missing a great chance to open the scoring at the end of the first half and was at times wasteful as Fulham tried to break down Sheffield United's resistance. Found the perfect pass for De Cordova-Reid to open the scoring early in the second half and showed signs of building a good understanding with Iwobi. Replaced by Tom Cairney in the aftermath of Sheffield United's equaliser.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid – 7

Probably the quietest of Fulham's attacking players but took the opening goal of the game expertly as he slid a shot beyond Foderingham on the break. Combined well with Vinicius on more than one occasion and typically never stopped making runs to try and threaten the opposition. Replaced by Harry Wilson after 78 minutes.

Willian – 8

Appears to be getting back to his best and looked to be Fulham's most likely source of a goal throughout. It finally came in second half injury-time to wrap up the game as his powerful shot proved too much for Foderingham to hold on to. Was another who benefitted from the focal point provided by Vinicius and also registered three key passes.

Carlos Vinicius – 7

Failed to find the net after finally being given a start in the Premier League but was heavily involved in most of Fulham's attacking play. Linked well with team-mates throughout and his physicality caused problems for the Sheffield United backline. Replaced by Rodrigo Muniz in the final 15 minutes but showed enough to perhaps make a starting spot his own in the coming weeks.

SUBS

Calvin Bassey – 7

Came on to the pitch in a difficult situation as he replaced the stricken Diop just after Sheffield United had pulled level, but was composed despite playing on his less-favoured right side of the centre-back pairing and did not offer the visitors any sniff of a route back into the game.

Tom Cairney – 7

Was called upon for creative inspiration just after Fulham had seen their lead disappear and delivered in unusual circumstances. His looping shot went in off Foderingham to put the Whites back in front but he did breathe new life into his side's attacking play in the final half hour.

Harry Wilson – 7

Another who was bright off the bench, almost getting on the scoresheet with a 25-yard rocket that came back off the post.

Harrison Reed – 6

Helped to steady the ship after Fulham were back in front.

Rodrigo Muniz – 6

A bright cameo from the striker. He was busy just like Vinicius and caused a few problems in the Sheffield United box.



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/fulham-player-ratings-from-3-1-win-over-sheffield-united-willian-looks-back-to-his-best-while-palhinha-once-again-dominates-midfield/

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Positives and negatives: Fulham 3-1 Sheffield United

Fulham bounced back in the right way following Monday's flattening loss, they always do, and Cam has all the the juicy (and unfortunately gory) details from our third dub of the campaign. Get in.

This was a game we simply had to win. Paul Heckingbottom's Sheffield United were yet to win in the Premier League this season, they were rock bottom with only a single point to boot and after an eventful second half that comprised four goals, they remain rooted to the foot of the table and they are in very real trouble.

Fulham's free flowing football was drip fed gradually into proceedings, Marco Silva will be delighted that his men compounded the Blades' seventh loss of the season with a two-goal cushion but you can bet your bottom dollar that he'll want even more from them once Premier League matters resume on the 23rd. So, we're nestled nicely within the middle of the pack, eleven points to our credit, all is well and we'll see you in a few weeks at the toilet seat stadium that sells upside down beers with funny names.

Positives

Game of redemption

Monday evening's loss against Chelsea was dejecting, it was a performance devoid of substance for Fulham and heading into Saturday's clash with Sheffield, a game that was billed as a must-win, tough questions needed clear answers. We were frigid in front of the target in our previous outings, blaming fingers singled out Raul Jimenez for his deficiencies in front of the target but there were many mitigating factors that had to be addressed.

Silva's team selection had been scrutinised, we were passive and uninspired in weeks gone by and as the team sheet was released an hour before kick off, optimism grew within the fan base. Carlos Vinicius would start up top, Alex Iwobi would gain his first start for his new club at Harrison Reed's expense and Bobby De Cordova-Reid would also return to the XI in Harry Wilson's place. The opening 45 minutes were tentative, a drawn out stoppage in play for a horrific injury stemmed the tempo for both sides and as the lads departed the field at half-time, there was very little reason to be upbeat or encouraged.

The squad had been switched up, we'd players involved that could single-handedly alter the narrative themselves but as it was under the lights at the beginning of the week, everything was in front of the Blades and barring Willian's strike that was beaten away by Wes Foderingham, the Whites were prosaic and predictable in their build-up play and we didn't do our dominance justice. Silva's side have been accused of being far too safe, the dreaded term 'Parkerball' had slowly trickled its way into conversation as the fan base tried to make sense of our unresponsiveness although after the break, our focus shifted for the better.

Something had to be done, anything less than three points would be a failure and we were proactive in our pursuit of the spoils. Stiff passing combinations were swapped out for dynamic, direct sieges and the sequence which led to our opener – which we'll explore further momentarily – was synchronised sexiness. Sweeping, pinpoint, the Whites had found their mojo and while we were pegged back, heads didn't drop and our objective didn't change. Certain introductions midway through the second half enabled us to hold territory, Sheffield weren't able to resist and as we notched our second of the afternoon, we knew we had them right where we wanted them to be all along.

The Whites were wholly convincing as a collective, each individual upheld their personal standards to the highest degree and we knew that we had to grab another goal to truly kill the visitors off. We couldn't allow them to regroup and the sense of relief that surged through the home terraces as our third sealed the dub once and for all was so satisfying. At long last, we'd managed to tally more than a solitary goal, we'd rallied and retaliated as Sheffield briefly levelled things up and as we've two extremely tricky fixtures up next on the road at Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton and Hove Albion, attaining maximum points was essential.

We're only eight games into the campaign, there'll be plenty of subplots as the schedule deepens however this was a win that separated us from the nailed-on relegation candidates in this division. We and the Blades are not the same, we found resolve in moments of discomfort, whereas our guests laboured to fully establish themselves. We are a team they would've fancied themselves to beat, make no mistake, but we weren't to be taken lightly and we certainly shouldn't be underestimated. This is a terrific result, a game of redemption that has to be used as a springboard once the international break's run its course.

Bobby's cool opener

Coolness and calmness personified, Decordova-Reid was a stand-out star on the right side of Fulham's attacking regiment and though he isn't selected week in, week out, he shouldn't be slept on. Willing and able to ball out in a range of roles, BDR caused multiple issues for Luke Thomas out wide, he often dragged the left-back into inverted positions, which allowed Thomas Castagne to advance on the overlap and his general output in possession was both progressive and preserving. He carried the ball observantly, his nimble footwork got him out of troublesome scenarios and his poise in front of the target, one-on-one, was exemplary.

Meeting Andreas Pereira's sculpted pass, the Jamaica international understood that time was of the essence as Foderingham neared but he wasn't to be pressured. He played chicken with the onrushing 'keeper, he ran the risk of being a fraction too late although the lift and placement on his effort was that of a striker in his absolute element. Pick that one out of the bottom left. Bobby called Foderingham's bluff, we haven't been ruthless enough in the scoring department beforehand but our resident utility expert diverted the opener with aplomb, and given he was a constant threat, he should definitely be in contention for another appearance from the off in north London.

Willi woke up

I, like many others, was thoroughly pissed off with Willian's attitude and body language in our previous outing but as vindication's the flavour of the matchday, the Brazilian was back to his bamboozling in this weekend's encounter. He stung palms, he fizzed crackers off uprights and his opportunism and sharpness as he drilled the definite winner into the bottom right was instinctive. It isn't a common occurrence but at one point or another, we've all cried for Willi to wake up and stand to attention, however there was nothing limp or lifeless about his input, not this time.

The 35-year-old was animated, he regularly flaunted his trademark shift and strike and in additional time, his perseverance paid off and his 2023/24 net busting account is now officially open. We'll never tire of the winger's sudden turn of pace, the scurrying motion as he winds up his right, and the feared expressions on the faces of goalkeepers across the country as he spanks it beyond their reach. He's off the mark, that will do wonders, and a happy, enthusiastic Willian is bad, bad news for opposing fullbacks and stoppers. We expect excellence from Willian because he is a specialist of his trade and in the final third on this occasion, he stamped his approval and signed off the job in style.

Tom's scuffing great

How can a scuffed scoop that was eventually attributed as an own goal appear so deliberate? Only Tom Cairney, the architect, can claim it was all part of the plan and if he actually told you so, you'd believe him. Getting in on the action in the 71st minute, Cairney automatically engineered control and command in the centre of the park, his intelligence and spatial awareness cannot be taught and as he propelled possession from flank to flank, he always made himself available to receive and I am completely on board with the shoot on sight policy he adopted for our second of the afternoon.

As TC's posture shaped for a long range pop, a goal was virtually guaranteed, regardless of how it eventually found its way into the back of the net. The trajectory was oddly spectacular, Cairney only deals in tender that thrills and he is well worth the extortionate entrance fee. Off the bench this season, Tom's influence has been noticeable and I just feel that he could be the missing link between our midfield and attack.

We were much, much tighter on the ball once he was fielded, he isn't a Pereira that will press and squeeze with intensity but truthfully, he offers an initiative that Andreas simply can't replicate. Cairney's improvisation urges his teammates to think outside of the box in order to, well, get within it but he also incorporates a tested structure, he can smoothly flit between planned choreography and off the cuff impulsiveness, either way, he was the brainchild of our resurgence in the closing stages.

I'm just gonna come out and say it: Cairney shouldn't be on the bench at Spurs, he should be on that pitch from kick-off. He's still got it, he's a heaped tablespoon of Dijon bloody mustard, he's a game changer that has to be granted the opportunity to pull strings early on. Argue with your nan's budgie.

Vini's eager outing

Oh yes, that's more like it. The contrast between Carlos Vinicius's input and Jimenez's is clear and visible because the Brazilian striker's involvement was top drawer. Named in the starting line-up ahead of the Mexican, Vinicius had a chance to imprint himself upon Silva's system and he didn't disappoint. His presence in the final third bothered Sheffield's centre-halves, he was stronger than Auston Trusty while screening possession, he was smarter than Anel Ahmedhodzic with his movement and he was first to virtually every ball in the air.

The Brazilian striker was aware, as our focal point he recognised that he had to lead the charge and his pressing was relentless. His athleticism is greater than Jimenez's, he isn't gifted with searing pace but he kept up with the rhythm of our attacking phases and his ingenuity whilst being marked closely brought our first goal of the afternoon.

Sliding Pereira into an advantageous position with a swivel of the hips, Vini had unlocked the Blades defensive line supremely, it was similar to his assist at the Amex last season and if he continues to conduct himself with the eagerness he showed before he was replaced by Rodrigo Muniz, I've no reservations about him being our preferred number nine. Plaudits were rightly earned, and long may his promising form continue. Less of the petulant elbowing though, chap.

Negatives

Basham's horrific leg break

Nobody ever wants to see what happened to Chris Basham become a reality. Breakages like that, sickeningly, are career enders and the innocuous manner in which the Sheffield defender's leg buckled and split was brutal and cruel. Players that suffer catastrophic injuries such as Basham's seldom recover properly, I am no doctor or physician but tendons and ligaments would've almost certainly been severed and at 35, I doubt he'll play again and if he does, it surely won't be in the Premier League.

Of course, I hope Chris rehabilitates without complications although the seriousness of the break suggests the road ahead is going to be both physically and mentally taxing. From a Fulham perspective, to add a positive inflection on disaster, Tim Ream's attentiveness was utterly commendable. He reassured Basham, remaining as still as possible was vital and Ream talked him through excruciating pain until gas, air and medics arrived. Tim's a true leader, and his welfare duties obviously don't stop at his teammates. Good on him.

Diop hobbled off

The visitors levelled it up as Issa Diop pulled up and as he hobbled off the pitch and down the tunnel with the help of staff, we can only hope the suspected fracture on the top of his foot isn't too drastic. It won't be anywhere near Basham's ordeal, although we can't have central defenders being side lined for prolonged periods, not when we're attempting to form essential partnerships. By all accounts, though, the Frenchman will be indisposed for four to six weeks.

From where I was sat in H5, it looked as though he was unintentionally stamped on, Sheffield capitalised and they took advantage. We were compromised because Diop physically couldn't continue and that's at no detriment to his defensive colleagues. I'm not even going to rubbish Antonee Robinson, it was a difficult ball to clear safely and the American was excellent otherwise. A bag of frozen peas probably won't sort this one but let's hope he gets back on the training field as soon as possible. Rest up, Issa!



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-10-08-positives-and-negatives-fulham-3-1-sheffield-united/

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Fulham Women put four past Sutton
Braces from both Megalie Mendes and Georgia Heasman helped Fulham Women come from behind to beat Sutton United 4-1 and register their sixth successive victory.

Steve Jaye's had to show real character after going behind to Laura Murtagh's predatory strike on the quarter hour as the Fulham defence was caught square. But Mendes responded in the perfect manner – curling a fabulous free-kick into the top corner from wide on the left flank within three minutes.

The Whites quickly established themselves as an attacking force after drawing level with the superb Sascha Paschale unfortunate not to give the hosts the lead with a rising drive after a brilliant ball from Heasman. Sutton keeper Zoe McNulty did bravely denied Mendes a second when the South African surged onto a superb cross from Emily Bird before Fulham custodian Frankie Gibbs, making a first league start for the Whites in four years, dashed off her line to end a dangerous Sutton break.

Fulham kept pressing with Betty Barron-Clark hitting a speculative drive from distance wide before they edged in front with a well-worked move before the interval. A flowing move saw Sophie Manzi and Sascha Pascale work space inside the penalty area before the clinical Heasman found the far corner with a precise finish. The in-form winger than ensured Fulham made the perfect start to the second half by extending their lead after latching onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Lilly Lambird.

That was the cue for Fulham, whose command of the contest was solidified with the introduction of Becky Stormer from the bench, to take full control. Mendes was a real menace along the left wing all afternoon and, after her low cross was blocked, she powered an unstoppable finish through McNulty's grasp to make it four. The hosts had further chances to make the result more resounding but McNulty saved smartly from substitute Ede Buchele before smothering at the feet of Mary Southgate after a barnstorming run from the skipper and Alex Hayman sent a late header over.

FULHAM FC WOMEN (3-4-3): Gibbs; Dale, Tagliavini, Southgate; Mendes, Bird, Barron-Clark, Lambird; Adamson, Heasman, Manzi. Subs: Parker, Stormer, Hayman, Panting, Buchele.

BOOKED: Manzi.

GOAL: Mendes (20, 54), Heasman (43, 46).

SUTTON UNITED WOMEN: McNulty; Measures, Backhurst, Modak, Meehan, Colepio, Bowles, Hurst, Wells, Kabadaki, Murtagh. Subs: Knowlton-South, Franics, McKenzie, Hooper, Spear.

GOAL: Murtagh (15).

REFEREE: Warren Igglesden.

ATTENDANCE: 189



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/fulham-women-put-four-past-sutton/

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Tom Cairney now shares what Marco Silva told Fulham players at half-time yesterday
Fulham club captain Tom Cairney has shared what manager Marco Silva said at half-time during their 3-1 win over Sheffield United yesterday.

Cairney was speaking to the club's official website after playing a key role in one of Fulham's goals.

It was a frustrating first half for those of us at Craven Cottage yesterday as Fulham produced a markedly improved performance on Monday's defeat to Chelsea.

Marco Silva made three changes to the side, bringing in Alex Iwobi, Carlos Vinicius and Bobby De Cordova-Reid.

The Jamaican international eventually opened the scoring in the second half but not before a testing spell in front of goal for the hosts.

Fulham created plenty of chances but each was spurned, with Willian the only player to string the palms of Wes Foderingham in goal.

Cairney has now shared what Silva told the Fulham team at half-time as they looked to avoid squandering a fantastic opportunity to earn three points.

The message clearly worked as De Cordova-Reid was joined on the score sheet by Willian and a Foderingham own goal that Cairney may struggle to claim.

Cairney shares Silva half-time message
Asked what the Portuguese coach said to the squad, Cairney said: "He kept saying you're doing the right things, keep plugging away and don't worry about the goals because if you do the right things the goals will come.

"That was his main message really to stay dynamic, stay forward-thinking and I think we did that, to be honest."

Cairney made a very quick impact on the match when he replaced Andreas Pereira following Sheffield United's equaliser.

Some good work from fellow substitute Calvin Bassey to win the ball high up the pitch meant the 32-year-old suddenly had time to shoot from 25 yards.

As he struck the ball with his normally spectacular left foot, he slipped with the ball looping up into the air, catching Foderingham off guard.

The ball cannoned off the crossbar onto the back of the Sheffield United goalkeeper before nestling in the back of the net.

Cairney can technically add it to his very short list of right-footed goals after striking the ball against his slipping standing foot.

The message of encouragement delivered by Silva at half-time worked for Cairney and his teammates.

The international break now gives the squad two days to prepare before facing high-flying Tottenham in North London, who will be seeking revenge for their Carabao Cup exit.




https://www.fulham.news/2023/10/08/tom-cairney-now-shares-what-marco-silva-told-fulham-players-at-half-time-yesterday/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham: Who were Marco Silva's first five signings and where are they now?
Marco Silva joined Fulham over two years ago and a lot has changed since. Now in the Premier League, his first five signings are all but a memory.

     Marco Silva's first signing, Harry Wilson, has found a permanent home at Fulham, contributing with 10 goals from free-kicks in his career.
    Paulo Gazzaniga, who joined Fulham as a second-choice goalkeeper, has since moved to Girona and established himself as their number one.
    Nathaniel Chalobah played a limited number of games for Fulham before moving to West Brom, where he has become a regular starter under Carlos Corberan.

Marco Silva has taken Fulham from a side with a yo-yo club status to being a properly respected Premier League outfit. Since the arrival of the coy Portuguese gaffer, Fulham have firmly established themselves as the Fulham of old. Built on dependability, and work-rate, with truly talismanic figures dotted throughout the starting XI for good measure, an air of positivity has been permeating through the air in West London. Registering their highest league placement in more than a decade last term, Fulham have made a steady start to the 2023/2024 campaign, sitting solidly in lower mid-table.

Having joined the club in the summer of 2021, Silva is entering his third season with the club, and a lot has changed since his arrival two years ago. The manager, formerly of Hull, Everton, and Watford, has overseen quite the turnover of playing staff, bringing in six new faces in his first transfer window alone. Naturally, due to the fluid nature of football, many of Silva's early signings at the club are now playing elsewhere. Let's take a look at where Marco Silva's first five signings at Fulham are now...

All statistics included are according to Transfermarkt unless stated otherwise.

Harry Wilson
Harry Wilson is Fulham and Wales' answer to James Ward-Prowse. The free-kick and dead-ball specialist has registered himself 10 goals from free-kicks in his career, meaning a fifth of his goals in senior football have come from a set-piece.

The exciting Welshman was Marco Silva's first piece of business in West London, brought in from Liverpool for a fee of £12 million following a string of loan moves, the attacking midfielder was considered a major coup, and would star in 41 of the Cottagers' 46 games during their emphatic, title-winning campaign.

Now 26 years old, the technically intelligent footballer seems to have found a permanent home on the banks of the River Thames at Craven Cottage. Wilson has been a prominent feature for the side in every season since joining, appearing in over 80 games. That includes 13 Premier League starts last term.

Paulo Gazzaniga
The 6'5 shot-stopping Argentinian joined Fulham on the same day as Harry Wilson in a double unveiling. The player had fashioned a career as predominantly a second-choice goalkeeper for the likes of Spurs and Southampton, so was perhaps hoping he'd get more of a crack at the whip in the second tier.

Having penned a two-year deal at Fulham, exchanging North London for West London, the free transfer made just 15 appearances under Marco Silva, conceding 21 goals. After just a year with the club, Gazaniga joined Girona on a season-long loan deal, before he moved to the Spanish side permanently during the 2023 summer window.

As the La Liga club's number one, he'll be hoping he can help inspire his new club who have begun their 23-24 campaign brilliantly with four wins and a draw from their first five games, with Gazzaniga keeping two clean sheets in the process. Finally, Gazzaniga appears to have found a home after his nomadic spell in England.

Nathaniel Chalobah
A player once hotly-favoured to be a future England midfield maestro, Nathaniel Chalobah's career has arguably been a little underwhelming. Joining Fulham for an undisclosed fee in August 2021 from Watford, the former Chelsea man was returning to West London, except he'd be sporting the white and black of the Cottagers rather than the royal blue of his ex-club.

Spending 18-months at Fulham, Chalobah played just 28 times for the club before moving on in the 2023 January transfer window to West Bromwich Albion on an 18-month deal.

Impressing during his opening few months with the Midlands club, Israeli side, Maccabi Haifa, who competed in last season's Champions League were reportedly interested in him, although no deal was ever agreed. Chalobah remains with the Baggies, and has clearly established himself as a regular starter under manager, Carlos Corberan.

Rodrigo Muniz
Like most strikers joining Fulham over the last few years, Rodrigo Muniz was met with an arduous task of displacing the bang in-form, Alexander Mitrovic. The Brazilian didn't get much of a look in during his debut season, with the big Serb smashing the Championship goalscoring record.

Signing from Flamengo for an undisclosed fee, the player was reduced to predominantly cameo appearances, such was the dominance of Mitrovic. Netting five goals in 25 league games, the inexperienced 20-year-old would find himself shipped out on loan to Middlesbrough the following season.

Returning to Craven Cottage after the conclusion of Boro's Championship play-off disappointment, the youngster was reportedly being lined up for a Fulham exit, with Football Insider claiming Marco Silva was happy to sanction a deal if it meant Fulham could sign Viktor Gyokeres - a move that never materialised. Turning out for the family club on three occasions so far this term, Muniz will be hoping now that Mitrovic is out of the picture he can stake a claim for a starting berth.

Domingos Quina
The Portuguese left-winger's stint in West London was that short and insignificant that the Fulham faithful would be forgiven for forgetting about him altogether. Signing on the dotted line from Watford on loan during the 2021 summer transfer window, the tricky winger had arrived with quite the youth pedigree, spending his formative years under the pupillage of Benfica, Chelsea and West Ham.

While his spell at Vicarage Road was relatively short-lived, he made 15 appearances for the Hornets the season prior. His time working under Marco Silva can only be defined by two games, such was the lack of his involvement.

He would spend the rest of the first six months of the 2021-2022 campaign either in the bench or excluded from the match-day squad entirely before moving on to Barnsley in the 2022 January window. 18-months on, the 22-year-old can now be found plying his trade for Serie A side and Watford's sister-club, Udinese.



https://www.givemesport.com/fulham-marco-silva-first-signings/#domingos-quina

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Alexi Iwobi sends two-word message to James Garner after what he did for Everton v Bournemouth
Alex Iwobi has sent a two-word message to James Garner after what he did for Everton against Bournemouth on Saturday (7 October).

The 22-year-old opened the scoring for the Toffees on eight minutes as he set his side on the way towards claiming a 3-0 victory over the Cherries at Goodison Park.

The English midfielder posted an image of himself celebrating his first Premier League on Instagram after the game, with Iwobi responding by saying "my guy".

Impressive
Despite leaving the club over the summer, it's clear that Iwobi still cares about Everton as he still engages regularly with his former teammates on social media.

This is the latest instance of the Nigerian congratulating one of the Toffees players after Garner scored an important goal for himself and the club.

It set the Blues on their way to picking up a huge three points, their first of the season at Goodison Park to ease some of the pressure on the side.

The midfielder has been impressive of late after breaking into the starting lineup this season and he will be hoping to add more goals as the campaign goes on.

The victory has helped open up a three-point gap on the sides in the relegation zone and ensures that the international break will be a little bit more comfortable for the Merseysiders.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/10/08/alexi-iwobi-sends-two-word-message-to-james-garner-after-what-he-did-for-everton-v-bournemouth/

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O'Neill added to Republic of Ireland U21 squad
Fulham's Ollie O'Neill has been added to the Republic of Ireland under-21 squad for Friday night's European Championship qualifier in Latvia.

The Ealing-born winger, who had a spell on loan with Derry City, has returned to Fulham's under-21 squad with a real flourish scoring four goals in four games for Hayden Mullins' side. The 20 year-old has won eight under-21 caps for Ireland, scoring two goals.

He has been added to Jim Crawford's squad for the fixture in Jelgava with the Irish keen to build on wins over Turkey and San Marino last month. The young boys in green will take on Italy and Norway later this year.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/oneill-added-to-republic-of-ireland-u21-squad/

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Garth Crooks' Team of the Week: Raheem Sterling, Mohamed Salah and Scott McTominay
At the end of every round of fixtures, BBC football pundit Garth Crooks is on hand to give you his Team of the Week.

Here are this week's choices and, as ever, Garth has also given his view on the game's big talking points in the Crooks of the Matter.




Guglielmo Vicario (Tottenham): I have selected Guglielmo Vicario for the very first time, after he took over from Hugo Lloris.

Regular readers will know what I thought of the French goalkeeper and it wasn't very much. However, since the arrival of Vicario the Italian has looked much more competent between the sticks.

With only 10 men against Luton it was imperative that Vicario kept a clean sheet. However, it was the one-handed save from Carlton Morris in the final throes of the match that was outstanding. The way Tottenham celebrated their victory away at Kenilworth Road and going top of the table was interesting. They looked like it was something they could get used to.


William Saliba (Arsenal): Once again the steadying influence of William Saliba in defence for the Gunners is proving invaluable.

The atmosphere at Emirates Stadium was as tense as I have known it against Manchester City and yet Saliba was as cool as ice and appeared to handle Erling Haaland without any trouble at all.

I rate Saliba as highly as I rated Sol Campbell. The France international has the same kind of presence in defence as the former England man and is just as quick.

What no-one can legislate for is whether Saliba can remain fit. It's highly unlikely he can go an entire season without some sort of injury and if his fitness does falter can the Gunners survive without him? Should Saliba get injured and Arsenal find that they can survive without him, then they must really fancy their chances of lifting the title.

Cristian Romero (Tottenham): Spurs went top of the table, but they made hard work of it.

Son Heung-min and Richarlison were well off the pace and why Yves Bissouma thought it a good idea to dive having already been booked earlier in the game beggars belief. His second caution was totally justified and such recklessness needs to be addressed by Tottenham's coaching staff immediately before a costlier moment comes against a much bigger club.

Nevertheless, Spurs came away with all the points because of Luton's inability to take their chances even against 10 men, and thanks to defending from the likes of Romero. I've no doubt Luton are trying their best but I cannot see where they are going to get their goals from to stay in this league. By the time they do come to terms with the challenge facing them and adjust to the level required they will have been cut adrift.

Micky van de Ven (Tottenham): The newly appointed Tottenham manager has certainly put a lot of faith in Micky van de Ven.

The 22-year-old Dutch defender certainly looks very impressive at this level and took his goal brilliantly.

Tottenham should have been four goals up in the first half; instead, they found themselves a man down. At this point I could have imagined former manager Antonio Conte blowing a fuse or Jose Mourinho marching into the referee's room and demanding an explanation.

Ange Postecoglou seems to trust his players to get the job done and it's worked so far. The Australian seemed to be the coolest man in the ground. His calm demeanour is clearly having a positive effect on his players.


Jack Harrison (Everton): The goal by Jack Harrison was spectacular, but I can't understand why Bournemouth's goalkeeper Neto selected to punch the previous delivery into the box when it was infinitely easier to catch it.

By Neto keeping the ball alive it presented Harrison with the opportunity to score. Harrison is a good addition to the Everton squad, but having observed him when he played for Leeds I don't think 10 goals a season is too much to ask for a player of his ability.

Harrison is now amongst players and an Everton crowd that might bring the best out of him. After the debacle against Luton, Everton, and in particular Sean Dyche, desperately needed the victory.

Bournemouth, however, look a shambles and face Wolves after the international break. Gary O'Neil, their former boss, I am sure would take some satisfaction in reminding Bournemouth that his departure from the club might have been not merely a little premature but a shocking error of judgement.

Scott McTominay (Manchester United): I don't normally select a player for my team who has only been on the pitch for 10 minutes, but when you have such a significant impact on a game it would be rude not to.

Two goals scored and one disallowed by Scott McTominay turned what was rapidly turning into a nightmare for manager Erik ten Hag into something of a massive relief.

It's hard enough trying to win matches when your goalkeeper is in good form, but when he's making errors almost on a weekly basis it makes life very difficult for all concerned.

Especially when you've had Peter Schmeichel, Edwin van der Sar and David de Gea keeping goal for you during the past 20 years, it becomes very conspicuous when you have a goalkeeper who is not in their class.

In fact, Andre Onana is not even on their planet. Since the arrival of the Manchester United keeper, he's been either smashing into centre-forwards, letting the ball slip through his fingers or, as was the case against Brentford, beaten by a shot a schoolboy would have been expected to save.

Declan Rice (Arsenal): Whatever your thoughts might be regarding whether Mateo Kovacic should have received his marching orders or not, it didn't really matter in the end.

Arsenal were the better side on the day against Manchester City and deserved their victory. It might have come in a better fashion instead of from a deflected shot off Nathan Ake's head, but I sense there will be similar twists and turns in a season where no clear favourite has emerged.

However, there can be no doubt in my mind that Arsenal's purchase of Declan Rice once again demonstrates the Gunners' determination to leave no stone unturned to bring the Premier League title to the red part of north London.

Tottenham might be sitting pretty at the top of the table on goal difference at the moment, but unless they venture into the transfer market, and send a message to the rest of the league of their intentions, I fear Arsenal are in a better position to achieve their objective than their neighbours.

Willian (Fulham): I saw this player play for Shakhtar Donetsk and destroy Chelsea in a Champions League fixture at Stamford Bridge. It wasn't long after that outstanding individual performance the Brazilian signed for the Blues and played a major role in the continued success of the London club.

These days Willian is not as influential as he used to be, but at the age of 35 he still has plenty to offer. He was instrumental in making life very uncomfortable for Sheffield United who seem to suffer from a combination of bad luck and horrendous injuries.

Chris Basham is the latest United player to join that casualty list. It was a horrible ankle injury and we wish him well and a speedy recovery. In the meantime, manager Paul Heckingbottom is holding up under the circumstances.

He team are getting pummelled on a weekly basis but he seems to be hanging in there.


Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Going back to play against your old team is never easy, as Alexis MacAllister quickly found out.

The former Brighton favourite failed to collect a pass Virgil van Dijk had no right to give to him in the first place, and was then glared at by the Liverpool captain for not doing more with an appalling pass.

Fortunately, Liverpool have Mohamed Salah who is looking lethal in front of goal again these days, and with no interference from VAR this week the Reds came away with a worthy point.

I find it extraordinary that the Premier League should use the best league in the world as a testing ground to pilot the latest technology and develop the system on the hoof.

VAR should have been tried, tested and proven well before being introduced to the best league in the world. Instead, we have one manager asking for replays in the event of errors by its operators and another insisting the system should be scrapped in its current form.

Alexander Isak (Newcastle): West Ham versus Newcastle was a terrific match considering both teams were embroiled in midweek European fixtures.

It was questionable whether Bruno Guimaraes should have been on the pitch after receiving an earlier yellow card but he survived and so did Newcastle.

This was a big test for the Magpies after their monumental victory over PSG in the Champions League, but they managed to come away with a point at the London Stadium.

Alexander Isak delivered the goods, while his second goal was produced with the most glorious cross from Kieran Trippier.

It also gave the visitors a glimmer of hope of taking all three points, but that's all it was as West Ham struck back to equalise. This was an excellent match played in the right spirit by two emerging teams.

Raheem Sterling (Chelsea): He only had a walk-on part against Fulham, but he was certainly the star of the show against Burnley.

The way Raheem Sterling is playing at the moment I'm beginning to think that leaving him out of the recent England squads, and not having to mentally navigate international training, travel, selection and performance, has done him a monumental favour.

All he has to do now is concern himself with Chelsea. Sterling is playing with a freedom and confidence that made him the best player in the country two seasons ago.

In the meantime Gareth Southgate's continued omission of Sterling is starting to reflect negatively more on the England manager than it is on the player. Two league wins in a row for the first time since March tells its own story.

Chelsea haven't just found an element of consistency in their game; they are starting to look like a team where a top-four finish no longer looks completely out of the question.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67043184

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Wales v Gibraltar: Youngsters set to feature in friendly, says Robert Page
International friendly match: Wales v Gibraltar
Venue: Stok Racecourse, Wrexham Date: Wednesday, 11 October Kick-off: 19:45 BST
Coverage: Live on BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru, BBC Sounds, BBC Sport website and app, plus live text
Highlights: Match of the Day Wales, BBC One Wales from 23:10 BST and later on demand

Boss Robert Page says Wales' friendly against Gibraltar is the "perfect opportunity" to blood the latest crop of youngsters.

Charlie Savage and Owen Beck have earned first senior call-ups while uncapped Luke Harris is again included.

Page said all three, who are also in the Under-21 squad, would play against Gibraltar.

"I think it's the time to introduce these youngsters and have a look," he said.

Wales face Gibraltar in a friendly in Wrexham on Wednesday, 11 October before hosting Croatia in a Euro 2024 qualifier at Cardiff City Stadium four days later.

Page was previously Wales' intermediate manager, in charge of the Under-21 side as well as the Under-17s and Under-19s, before becoming part of the senior side's coaching team.

The former Sheffield United and Watford defender has always underlined the importance of the pathway available for players to progress from the youth teams into the senior squad.

"Some of these were in the younger age groups so I've worked with them, I know their potential and it's lovely seeing them progress," Page added.

"They're showing a lot of potential and the benefits of training camps with our Under-21s is that we can stagger training and when our training is over we walk over and watch them train.

"If there's any that we think that are ready for the next level then we'll give them that opportunity to train with us.

"We've done it with a couple of players and every time they've stepped up and trained with us they've impressed.

"This for me is the perfect opportunity to show supporters what we've got coming through but for me to have closer look at them.

"We're going to have three days working on grass with them and give them the opportunity to play a first team competitive game."

Page was a Wales team-mate and room-mate of former Leicester City, Birmingham City and Blackburn Rovers midfielder Robbie Savage, whose son Charlie has been called up for the first time.

Savage junior, 20, has scored two goals in 12 appearances this season for Reading, whom he joined from Manchester United in a permanent four-year deal in July 2023.

"I spoke to Charlie about maybe having to get away from Man United if he wants to go an forge a career and play international football," Page added.

"He can't just keep playing Under-23s football. He's taken my advice, gone to Reading and playing really well.

"Look at what Rob went through when he left Man United years ago to get a career for himself - going to Crewe - it's no different to Charlie.

"He was on standby in September because we had Dylan [Levitt] out and had a couple of injuries in camp so this next game is perfect for him for us to have a closer look at him."

Another player with a famous Welsh footballing family heritage is Beck.

Left-back Beck, 21, is on loan at Scottish Premiership side Dundee from Liverpool and is the great-nephew of Reds and Wales great Ian Rush.

Fulham midfielder Harris, 18, has been involved with the senior squad during the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign but is yet to make his debut.

Page says the time is now right for Harris to get game time, having featured only twice for his club in the Premier League so far this season.

"He was desperate to go out on loan and injuries at the club dictated he couldn't leave," Page said.

"The thing is with young players, they've got no clout to go and insist that they go and leave and play games.

"He got on had minutes against Man City, great for him, but his development long term he's going to be a little but behind now.

"I just think this is the perfect game for him."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67018592

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Page hints at Wales debut for Harris
Pob Page has hinted that he will hand Fulham midfielder Luke Harris his Welsh senior debut during Wednesday's friendly against Gibraltar in Wrexham.

The Jersey-born teenager has been named in a number of senior squads without making a senior appearance despite starring for the Welsh youth sides over the past three years. The talented number ten was all set to join Exeter City on loan on deadline day only for Fulham to pull out of the deal when Joao Palhinha's move to Bayern Munich collapsed – and Harris made his only first-team appearance of the season the following afternoon at Manchester City when Tom Cairney limped off after a quarter of an hour.

Page told BBC Wales:

"I think it's the time to introduce these youngsters and have a look. Some of these were in the younger age groups so I've worked with them, I know their potential and it's lovely seeing them progress. They're showing a lot of potential and the benefits of training camps with our Under-21s is that we can stagger training and when our training is over we walk over and watch them train.

If there's any that we think that are ready for the next level then we'll give them that opportunity to train with us. We've done it with a couple of players and every time they've stepped up and trained with us they've impressed. This for me is the perfect opportunity to show supporters what we've got coming through but for me to have closer look at them. We're going to have three days working on grass with them and give them the opportunity to play a first team competitive game."

The Wales boss spoke about Harris, who scored in Fulham under-21s' 4-0 win over Leicester City in the Premier League Cup before joining up with his country, and referenced his disappointment at not getting the chance to play regular first-team football.

"He was desperate to go out on loan and injuries at the club dictated he couldn't leave. The thing is with young players, they've got no clout to go and insist that they go and leave and play games. He got on [and] had minutes against Man City, great for him, but his development long term he's going to be a little but behind now. I just think this is the perfect game for him."

The eighteen year-old, who scored his first Welsh under-21 goal against Lithuania last month, extended his Craven Cottage contract in March after impressing Marco Silva after breaking into the Fulham senior side last season.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/10/page-hints-at-wales-debut-for-harris/