Sunday Fulham Stuff - 12/11/23...

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Results

Saturday 11/11
Wolves	2-1	Spurs
Arsenal	3-1	Burnley
Palace	2-3	Everton
Man Utd	1-0	Luton
Bournemouth	2-0	Newcastle

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Leon Bailey issues warning to Aston Villa teammates as Unai Emery eyes stunning record
Aston Villa will equal one record and move to within one game of another if they can overcome Fulham this weekend. Victory over Marco Silva's side will equal a run of 13 straight wins - a benchmark set back in 1983

Leon Bailey has warned his Aston Villa teammates that Fulham will have been working overtime to suss out their magic Villa Park formula.

Villa will equal one record and move to within one game of another if they can overcome the Cottagers this weekend. Victory over Marco Silva's side will equal a run of 13 straight wins - a benchmark set back in 1983.

But they will need to go two better to beat the club record of 14, which was set across the 1930-31 and 1931-32 campaigns. Jamaica international Bailey said: "Each game's going to get more and more difficult for us at home.

"Fulham have a great team - but so have we - and we need to stick to our game plan. So far, we've been doing that and it's been working for us. We just need to remain humble and do the same.

However, everyone knows we haven't lost a league game at home. They will try to work us out, definitely. We have to keep that in the back of our minds because it will be more and more difficult."

Meanwhile, boss Unai Emery is trying to keep expectations in check. He was given a rude awakening at the City Ground last week. Villa had the chance to move up to third but blew it with a lacklustre show in the east Midlands.

 Regardless of their form on their own patch, the Spaniard remains convinced that his club are 'contenders' for a spot in the top seven - nothing more. He said: "Manchester United and Chelsea are more contenders than us to be in the top four, top five, top seven. We are one team trying to get an opportunity to get there.

"We are not contenders. We are a team that tries to be ambitious and tries to improve. Now, we are fifth. Yes, that's very good. But we don't really feel like we are contenders for the top seven. We can dream. We are going match-to-match thinking about improving and how to get one step ahead in the table."



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/leon-bailey-issues-warning-aston-31413270

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Leno to have nose surgery
Bernd Leno has been left out of Germany's squad for their forthcoming international fixtures because he is due to have an operation on his nose.

The Fulham goalkeeper was absent from the party picked by Julian Nagelsmann for the matches against Turkey and Austria later this month and has been replaced by RB Leipzig's Janis Blaswich having informed the DFB that he will be having surgery on an unspecified nose complaint, according to SportBuzzer.

The 31 year-old has excelled since leaving Arsenal last summer, keeping eleven clean sheets in 48 games for Marco Silva's side, and had been recalled to the national team squad earlier this year. Leno hasn't added to his nine senior caps since 2021 but has previously stressed his desire to return to the German squad for the home European Championships next summer.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/11/leno-to-have-nose-surgery/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham issues will have Birmingham City worried ahead of January: View
Jay Stansfield is excelling on loan at St Andrew's

    Jay Stansfield's loan move to Birmingham City has been a success so far, with the 20-year-old striker scoring five goals in 12 Championship games.
    Fulham's struggles in the Premier League and lack of goals may lead them to consider recalling Stansfield from his loan to strengthen their squad.
    Losing Stansfield would be a major blow for Birmingham City, as he is their top scorer and his departure would leave them without funds to find a replacement.

With any transfer in football, there is never any explicit guarantee that a player's move from one club to the next will be a successful one.

Any switch has a number of variables that must be taken into account, as an individual adapts to new surroundings, teammates, managers and tactics, among other things.

That can be a lot to take in, and the gamble is enhanced even further, when a player steps up to play at a level they have never experienced before.

Even so, the need to strengthen means those risks do have to be taken, and in some cases, they will indeed work out.

This season, one such switch that does indeed look well set to pay off for those involved, is Jay Stansfield's loan move from Fulham to Birmingham City.

How has Stansfield fared at Birmingham City?
Last season saw Stansfield spend an emotional campaign on loan in League One with Exeter City, the club where his late father Adam will forever remain a legend.

During his stint at St James Park, the 20-year-old impressed with nine goals in 36 league games for the club.

That was enough to earn him a move to the Championship this season, with the centre forward joining Birmingham on a season-long loan in the summer.

With the exception of a handful of largely brief appearances for Fulham, this is the first time that Stansfield has played as high as the second-tier of English football.

However, the young striker has wasted little time in settling in at that level, already scoring five goals in 12 Championship games for the Blues since the start of the campaign.

That includes two goals in his loan club's last two games, under new manager Wayne Rooney.

As a result, it seems Stansfield is already showing that he can hold his own and make a positive impact at Championship level, meaning he will at some point likely earn a chance to show what he can do in the Premier League at some point as well.

But with the January window now moving into view, the situation at Fulham means there may be some cause for concern around Birmingham, when it comes to Stansfield's future.

Should Birmingham be worried about Stansfield and Fulham?
While Stansfield may currently be thriving at Birmingham, the fact is that Fulham's current centre forward options at Craven Cottage are not.

Between them, Bobby Decordova-Reid (2), Carlos Vinicius (1), Rodrigo Muniz (0) and Raul Jiminez (0) have scored just three Premier League goals this season.

Indeed, across their whole squad, Fulham have sound the net just nine times in the Premier League this season, with only Burnley (eight) doing so less in the top-flight so far.

As a result, some extra firepower may well be on the agenda for Marco Silva's side once the transfer market reopens at the turn of the year.

That could of course, generate some considerable worry among those of a Birmingham persuasion when taking into account the form of Stansfield.

With the 20-year-old's form in the Championship suggesting he may have the potential to make an impact in the Premier League in the future, and the Cottagers in need of goals, they could well be tempted to recall him from his loan at Birmingham to lead the line for Marco Silva's side.

Not only would that give an opportunity to an exciting young prospect, but by recalling Stansfield rather than signing another striker, it would save Fulham money that could then be used to strengthen the squad in other areas in the window.

For Birmingham though, losing their on-loan centre forward would be a major blow, not least given the impressive form he is producing at St Andrew's.

Beyond that, Stansfield's five goals this season put him top of their league scoring charts, with only three other players finding the net more than once in the Championship.

As a result, a recall for Stansfield by Fulham could be a major blow for the Blues, especially if results under Rooney - they have taken just one point from four games since his appointment - do not pick up.

Indeed, given they would not receive any transfer fee if Fulham were to summon the 20-year-old back to Craven Cottage, that would also see them forced to replace him, without being able to bring in any funds from his departure, with which to source a replacement.

It seems therefore, that while transfer windows are often greeted with a sense of excitement and intrigue for fans of most clubs, when it comes to those of a Birmingham persuasion, the situation around Stansfield and Fulham, means there may be a fair amount of trepidation mixed in with those emotions as well.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-issues-will-have-birmingham-city-worried-ahead-of-january-view/

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Full Aston Villa squad available to Unai Emery for Fulham clash
Latest Aston Villa news from BirminghamLive as Unai Emery's side host Fulham at Villa Park ahead of the international break

Aston Villa will go in search of a 13th consecutive home league win when they welcome Fulham to Villa Park on Sunday.

The Villans' form in B6 has placed Unai Emery's side in the top four conversation this season. Villa sit fifth in the Premier League table and are just two points off fourth place after 11 games.

And they will be keen to bounce back from last weekend's disappointing 2-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest. Their loss at the City Ground ended a six-game unbeaten run in the league.

Centre-back Diego Carlos picked up an injury in the win over AZ on Thursday and is a major doubt for the clash against Fulham. Elsewhere, Alex Moreno is fit again and could be in line to make his first appearance of the season.

Full Villa squad available to Emery...

Goalkeepers: Emi Martinez, Robin Olsen, Filip Marschall.

Defenders: Matty Cash, Pau Torres, Ezri Konsa, Lucas Digne, Calum Chambers, Clement Lenglet, Alex Moreno

Midfielders: John McGinn, Douglas Luiz, Boubacar Kamara, Leander Dendoncker, Youri Tielemans, Nicolo Zaniolo, Leon Bailey.

Attackers: Ollie Watkins, Moussa Diaby, Jhon Duran.

Injury Doubts: Diego Carlos.

Ruled out: Jacob Ramsey, Emi Buendia, Tyrone Mings.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/full-aston-villa-squad-available-28087381

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Sources: Fulham ready to smash record with £40m+ January signing
Fulham are ready to smash their transfer record to bring a new striker to the club in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.

Marco Silva and his recruitment team have identified a forward as a key area for improvement following the start of the 2023-24 campaign.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Fulham could spend £40million-plus on a striker if the right option becomes available in the mid-season window.

The Cottagers' current transfer record is the reported £25million paid to Nice in 2018 to land midfielder Jean Michael Seri.

Fulham are among the lowest goalscorers in the Premier League so far this season, having managed just nine goals in 11 top-flight games.

Those struggles come after the big-money sale of Aleksandar Mitrović to Al-Hilal in the most recent summer window.

Raul Jimenez arrived from Wolves in a reported £5.5million deal during the off-season but is yet to score a goal for his new club.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid, Carlos Vinicius and Joao Palhinha are the Cottagers' top scorers this season with two goals apiece.

Fulham are keen to back manager Marco Silva after he signed a new contract running until June 2026 last month.

It is believed the Portuguese boss has been given assurances about transfer spending as he vies to extend the club's stay in the Premier League.

The Londoners sit 15th in the table and are six points clear of the drop zone following their 1-0 defeat against Man United last time out (4 November).

Fulham are next in action against Aston Villa on Sunday (12 November).



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-ready-to-smash-record-with-40m-january-signing/

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Can Fulham get a shock result at Aston Villa?

Jack Stroudley looks ahead to our final game before the international break.

Yet another week where a Saturday 3pm seems like a distant memory. This weekend we travel to the midlands to take on Aston Villa on Sunday. A good point against Brighton was followed by a good effort against Manchester United, until injury time when Bruno Fernandes nicked a winner. Another tough test awaits us this weekend, but can Fulham go into the international break with a positive result?

The opposition

Despite a 2-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend, Aston Villa will come into this full of confidence. Since being appointed last season, Unai Emery has turned the fortune at Aston Villa and has made Villa Park a fortress with their last defeat at home coming in February.

Their recruitment over the summer was smart with both Moussa Diaby and Nicolo Zaniolo adding even more goals to an already impressive side. Similarly to Brighton a few weeks ago, Fulham may catch Aston Villa at good time with the hosts coming off the back of a European fixture in midweek.

How do we prepare?

I would make three changes to the side that narrowly lost to Manchester United last weekend with Sasa Lukic, Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Carlos Vinicius coming in for Andreas Pereira, Harry Wilson and Rodrigo Muniz.

I think Aston Villa are going to control a lot of the ball so having both Lukic and Iwobi alongside Palhinha should allow us to be more physical in the midfield and also allow us to carry the ball forward more on the counter when we chances. De Cordova-Reid comes in purely from a defensive standpoint. I think we'll be pegged back for large portions of the game and having someone more defensively minded could help. The Jamaican has also been more confident in front of goal than Wilson over the course of this season so far.

Poor Muniz he can't catch a break can he? Some solid Carabao Cup performances rounded off with a goal against Ipswich meant he finally got a chance in the league only to come off in tears thanks to injury. Vinicius would start for me over Jimenez as I think on the ball, the Brazilian is probably the best option we have at striker in terms of linking play during the transition from defence to attack.

The final verdict

As I mentioned on this weeks 'The Jack and Jack Show' I'm really not confident. Aston Villa is one of the toughest grounds to go to at the moment and this will be a difficult ask for Fulham. I'm going to go with a win for the hosts.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-11-11-can-fulham-get-a-shock-result-at-aston-villa/

[WhiteJC]

How Villa could line up vs Fulham: Changes expected as quartet come back in
Aston Villa host Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, and here's how Unai Emery's starting XI could look for the clash.

The Villa boss opted to make changes in midweek as we defeated AZ Alkmaar in the Europa Conference League, with the likes of Clement Lenglet, Diego Carlos and Youri Tielemans coming in for rare starts.

While it paid off and that trio all impressed in our 2-1 win, it's unlikely that they will keep their respective places in the Villa XI this weekend, as we go back to a full-strength side.

As per Emery in his pre-match press conference, Carlos could miss the encounter altogether having picked up a knock in the latter stages on Thursday night, while Lenglet has yet to feature in the Premier League this season.

Conversely, Tielemans is starting to impress now on a more consistent basis, and so perhaps we could fit him into the starting XI in a way that also accommodates our first-choice pairing in midfield.

There should be no surprises between the posts though with Emiliano Martinez continuing, but with Carlos likely to be ruled out, that should see Matty Cash come back in to replace him, with Ezri Konsa shifting back across into a central role.

Pau Torres is expected to come in for Lenglet with Lucas Digne continuing at left-back, but Villa do have the bonus of Alex Moreno now being ready to feature again after his lengthy injury layoff.

In midfield, John McGinn and Boubacar Kamara will keep their starting berths, but both Douglas Luiz and Nicolo Zaniolo could return to the line-up by displacing Tielemans and Leon Bailey respectively, in a familiar looking set-up that we've seen consistently in the league so far this season.

That in turn will see Moussa Diaby supporting Ollie Watkins in the final third, and so it's potentially back to our most balanced XI, which has featured regularly in this campaign thus far.

As always, Emery will assess the opposition meticulously and may well have a surprise for us if he feels another player can give us something in the game to provide an edge, but the side below does seem the most likely Villa starting XI for this weekend.

Predicted Aston Villa XI vs Fulham: Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Pau, Digne; McGinn, Kamara, Luiz, Zaniolo; Diaby, Watkins.




https://talk-villa.com/predicted-aston-villa-xi-fulham-cash-luiz-pau-torres-return/

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa looking to equal, set new records in Fulham game
Aston Villa can either equal or set new records when they square off against Fulham in the Premier League on Sunday.

Unai Emery's side are again playing on the latter part of the weekend courtesy of their involvement in the Europa Conference League, a 2-1 victory being posted against AZ Alkmaar earlier this week.

However, Villa are determined to finish in the top five of the table on the domestic front, that position currently being occupied despite the 2-0 reverse at Nottingham Forest.

There will be a confidence that they can immediately bounce back against Fulham given the length of their Premier League winning streak at Villa Park.

Emery has remarkably overseen as many as 12 top-flight victories at their West Midlands home in succession, a run that started all the way back in March.

Should Villa be able to prevail against the Cottagers on Sunday afternoon, it would equal the 13-game streak that they put together in such fixtures four decades ago.

Villa's form during the calendar year has also often been debated with only Manchester City having collected more points than Villa since the start of 2023.

A total of 20 wins have come from 33 matches, and recording a 21st success would equal their Premier League best, that being set in 1998.

Furthermore, if another league win is recorded at Villa Park before the November international break, Villa will register six successive home victories at the start of a top-flight season for the first time since 1932.

In terms of facing London opposition, Villa are already on a run of beating five teams from the capital in a row, and another maximum return versus Fulham would represent the first time that they have defeated such clubs on six consecutive occasions.

At a time when Villa have scored at least three goals in each of their five home league matches during 2023-24, Fulham have gone seven contests in the top flight without netting in the opening 45 minutes.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/aston-villa/news/villa-looking-to-equal-set-new-records-in-fulham-game_528804.html?newsnow

[WhiteJC]

Fulham set to smash club transfer record with marquee January signing
Fulham are reportedly prepared to break their club record signing fee in the January window opens.

That's according to a recent report from Football Insider, who claims the Cottagers are set to prioritise a new forward in the New Year.

Among the Premier League's lowest scorers following Aleksandar Mitrovic's move to the Saudi Pro League in the summer and Raul Jimenez continuing to misfire, Fulham's need for a new striker is obvious.

And with a new hitman top of Marco Silva's agenda, Fulham are thought to be willing to match their manager's ambition by sanctioning what would be a club record purchase.

Fulham's current transfer record signing is the reported £25 million they paid Nice in 2018 to sign midfielder Jean Michael Seri. However, that record won't be in place for much longer with the London-based club set to splash out more than £40 million on a forward in January.

Names have not been mentioned, but with the club clearly backing their manager, the focus must now turn to identifying the right target to lead the side's attacking line.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2023/11/11/fulham-set-to-smash-transfer-record-with-marquee-january-signing/

[WhiteJC]

What Marco Silva has "been promised" as Fulham make January transfer plan
It could be quite a busy winter window at Craven Cottage.

Fulham manager Marco Silva has "been promised" one thing at Craven Cottage as journalist Pete O'Rourke shares a January transfer update this week.

Silva aiming to cement his legacy at Fulham
The west Londoners have been showcasing their ambition off the field in recent months. Fulham chiefs managed to keep star midfielder Joao Palhinha away from Bayern Munich in what was a big boost for Silva, later going on to tie their head coach down with a new contract running until 2026.

The Portuguese committed his future to the club and declared that he wants to leave a legacy, saying that Fulham need to maintain their ambition after finishing in the top half last season.

"The way we finished in the top half of the table. I think we did big steps forward, probably surprised many people," said Silva to TNT Sports.

"But I knew as well that after a brilliant season in the Premier League, the second is probably going to be even worse. We have to keep the same focus, the same ambition, and keep improving the club on and off the pitch.

"When you are in a club a long time - and this is going to be my third season - you can get titles for the club."

Fulham remain in the EFL Cup and are set to take on Everton at Goodison Park in December, which gives them a big chance to go on a run and potentially make a date at Wembley.

Fulham's rumoured January targets
Of course, there are some gaping holes in Silva's squad that need addressing - namely their lack of goalscoring potency.

Only relegation candidates Burnley have scored less than Fulham so far this term, with their current striking duo Carlos Vinicius and Raul Jimenez bagging just one league goal between them.

As a result, reports suggest they could target a new striker in January. Stuttgart star Serhou Guirassy, before his recent injury, bagged 14 Bundesliga goals in just eight league appearances - so he has emerged as a target.

It is also believed that Fulham wish to sign a new central midfielder, with Fluminese star Andre and Southampton's Carlos Alcaraz linked with a move to the club in recent weeks.

Fulham's January promise to Silva
According to O'Rourke, writing for Football Insider, it is believed that boss Silva has now "been promised" significant January funds ahead of the winter window's reopening.

The reporter claims Fulham plan to be one of the busier sides when it comes to incomings, which will come as an exciting bit of news for supporters who wish to see their team's squad reinforced.

The Cottagers are apparently "ready to back" Silva with a "big war chest" in just under two months time, as they seek to climb up the table and compete in cup competitions.

Silva was allegedly given assurances over Fulham's spending, before he put pen to paper on a new deal, which ultimately persuaded him to commit.

It will now be interesting to see who exactly they seek to bring in mid-season.



https://www.footballfancast.com/what-marco-silva-has-been-promised-as-fulham-make-january-transfer-plan/

[WhiteJC]

Dan joins the UTV podcast
Dan joined the Up The Villa podcast – as a late replacement for Alan Drewett – to discuss tomorrow's trip to Villa Park.

He and host Luke Robinson discussed Fulham's start to the season, the lack of firepower following the loss of Aleksandar Mitrovic and how Marco Silva might approach this tough away trip.

https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/11/dan-joins-the-utv-podcast/

[WhiteJC]

Silva makes two changes, Iwobi starts: Fulham's predicted XI vs Aston Villa
Fulham face Aston Villa on Sunday, and it's fair to say that a lot has changed since these two sides met this time last year.

Indeed, the Whites played against Aston Villa 12 months ago in what was Steven Gerrard's last game in charge of the Midlands club, but they have been transformed since then under Unai Emery.

Similarly, there have been big changes at Fulham, two of the goals that day came from Aleksandar Mitrovic penalty and an own goal crafted by Neeskens Kebano's brilliance down the left wing, but neither player is at the club these days.

Fulham ran out 3-0 winners last season, but it's fair to say that they come into this game as serious underdogs this time around.

However, as Fulham have shown against Arsenal and Manchester United this season, they won't roll over for any team, and with that in mind, we've had a go at predicting the Whites' starting XI for this one.

We think that there will be two changes from the team that started against Manchester United last week.

The backline remains exactly the same as the likes of Issa Diop and Tosin Adarabioyo continue to be impacted by injuries, so Calvin Bassey continues to play in his unnatural role as a right-sided centre-half.

Meanwhile, there is a change in the midfield.

Harrison Reed comes in for Andreas Pereira in order to add a bit more bite in the midfield, while Rodrigo Muniz drops out after picking up an injury against the Red Devils last week.

Muniz is replaced by Raul Jimenez in this side as the Mexican continues to search for his first goal for the club, while he is flanked by both Willian and Harry Wilson.

This will be an uphill battle for Fulham, but, as we all know, anything can happen in the Premier League.



https://www.fulham.news/2023/11/11/silva-makes-two-changes-iwobi-starts-fulhams-predicted-xi-vs-aston-villa/

[hovewhite]

The last of 4 nightmare games thank God if we can maintain a 6 point gap we will be ok till any sort of striker ,a target man even comes in in the next transfer window,
And can't come soon enough.
Just happy this is over this is the  last game of this nightmare run .

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa vs Fulham: Premier League Preview, Gameweek 12, 2023
Aston Villa will hope to round off a good week as they face Fulham at Villa Park on Sunday.

After their late turnaround against AZ Alkmaar on Tuesday, Aston Villa will be in search of a record-breaking 13th league victory in a row at Villa Park, in a run that spans back to February when they were defeated by Arsenal.

The next visitor will be Marco Silva's Fulham, who are having a below-average start to their second season back in the Premier League, sitting in 15th, six points above the drop zone.

The hosts, however, are having a remarkable start to the campaign in Unai Emery's first full season in charge – occupying fifth place, just two points off Arsenal, who are the final team in the Champions League spots.

Fulham will have a slight advantage, having not played mid-week and will be looking to take advantage of any tired legs in claret and blue, coming off the back of a late defeat to Manchester United last week, with Bruno Fernandes' stoppage time strike securing the points at Old Trafford.

Team News
Aston Villa

Emi Buendia will definitely be absent after suffering a significant knee ligament injury in pre-season training, and Villa fans won't be expecting to see the Argentine anytime soon.

A familiar story awaits Tyrone Mings, who also suffered a serious knee injury and was stretchered off in the first half of his side's heavy defeat to Newcastle in August.

Some positive news for the Villains, with Jacob Ramsey pictured back in training this week after missing the previous seven games with a reoccurrence of a previous foot injury. Sunday may be too soon for the England U21 international but he may make an appearance off the bench.

Fulham

Issa Diop is set to miss out after being absent for the last three games with a foot injury suffered in his side's 3-1 victory over bottom-of-the-league Sheffield United.

Adama Traore is a doubt for the clash, having been sidelined for a number of weeks after a hamstring injury. He hasn't appeared for Fulham since the start of September.

Marco Silva put him in contention for his side's trip to Manchester United last week but wasn't part of the matchday squad.

Likely Lineups
Aston Villa

Martinez; Cash, Torres, Carlos, Digne; Zaniolo, Douglas Luiz, Kamara, McGinn; Diaby, Watkins.
Fulham

Leno; Castagne, Bassey, Ream, Robinson; Iwobi, Palhinha; Wilson, Pereira, Willian; Jiminez.

Robinson, Ream, Bassey, Castagne; Willian, Pereira, Palhinha, Wilson, Iwobi; Jimenez.

Key Players
Aston Villa - Ollie Watkins

The Englishman has been in scintillating form so far this season, rightfully being named back in Gareth Southgate's England side for the upcoming EURO 2024 qualifiers against North Macedonia and Malta.

He'll be looking to back up his goal on Wednesday, completing his side's comeback over Alkmaar after going a goal down to the Dutch side early on, which takes his tally for the season to ten goals and five assists in 18 games across all competitions.

Fulham - Joao Palhinha

Palhinha has put his failed move to Bayern Munich on transfer deadline day behind him, signing a deal until 2028 just two weeks after almost moving to Germany.

The Portuguese international has scored two goals in nine games this season from midfield, giving him the best game-to-goal ratio in the Fulham squad, and has almost equalled his tally from the whole of the last season, where he got three.

He scored the all-important goal in the last time the Cottagers picked up points, in a 1-1 draw away at Brighton and played well last time out against United at Craven Cottage, despite Fernandes' late goal.

Match Details.
Where is the game being played?

The fixture will take place at Villa Park in Birmingham.

What time is kick-off?

The match will start at 2pm local time.

How can I watch?

The game has not been picked to be streamed on Sky Sports, so only fans outside of the UK will be able to watch live on TV.



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2023/11/10/premier-league/1162425-aston-villa-vs-fulham-premier-league-preview-gameweek-12-2023.html

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa vs Fulham Preview: Probable Lineups, Prediction, Tactics, Team News & Key Stats
Unai Emery has the unique opportunity to match a 40-year-old club record for consecutive home wins when Aston Villa host Fulham.

Unai Emery might have suffered a significant setback last weekend when Aston Villa suffered a morale-sapping defeat at the City Ground to Nottingham Forest. The result also ended their six-game unbeaten run in the Premier League. But with a win over Fulham at the weekend, it could match a 40-year-old club record for 13 consecutive home wins in the league for Aston Villa.

That loss against Nottingham did not hurt Aston Villa too much as their close rivals above them in the table also dropped points. After last weekend's results, Emery's side sat fifth in the table, with Liverpool and Arsenal only above them with a twp point lead.

Emery will look for a victory and match one of the club's formidable records. The Midlands side have already shaken off last weekend's loss with a win over Dutch flyers AZ Alkmaar this week. Their striker, Vangelis Pavlidis, continued his scoring form and opened the scoring before Diego Carlos and Ollie Watkins ensured the three points. Hence, Emery will have all the faith to get three points on Sunday.

After another disappointing result last weekend, Fulham are not in a good place. The Cottagers have not won any of their last three top-flight games and suffered a late defeat at the hands of Manchester United last Saturday.

Not only will they have been disappointed with the outcome, but Fulham's overall performance until Manchester United's late goal must have built confidence in Marco Silva. The Portuguese manager remains desperate to see his side achieve consistent results to stand any chance of success this season.

As things stand, Fulham are well ahead of the danger zone. But who says they can't get dragged into the relegation battle if results continue in the current theme?

Team News & Tactics
Aston Villa

The win over AZ Alkmaar did come at a cost for Unai Emery, who confirmed defender Diego Carlos will remain absent for the Fulham encounter. The Brazilian left the field injured in that midweek clash, although he might not have started against the Cottagers in any case.

Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres will lead the backline for Villa in this encounter and potentially for the many upcoming games on their schedule. Jacob Ramsey is another player who remains out as he has Tyrone Mings and Emi Buendia for a company on the sidelines.

Emery has recently switched to a different 4-4-2, which takes centre stage when in possession. In this system, Moussa Diaby and Ollie Watkins will continue to lead the line, with John McGinn providing the width from the right side. Similarly, Nicolo Zaniolo will be deployed on the left side of the attack, while Douglas Luiz and Boubacar Kamara will hold the midfield together.

Probable Lineup (4-4-2): Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Zaniolo, Luiz, Kamara, McGinn; Diaby, Watkins

Fulham
Marco Silva still has a few key players, especially central defenders, out of the equation ahead of the Aston Villa clash. Key defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Issa Diop are out of contention still, meaning the Cottagers will have to rely on veteran Tim Ream and Calvin Bassey to shore up the backline.

On a positive note, Adama Traore and Kenny Tete are still doubting but could go through a late assessment, which could see them make it to the matchday squad. Other than that, Silva should have a similar team for contention as he did last weekend against Manchester United.

Another concern with Fulham is the potential absence of young striker Rodrigo Muniz, who was impressive in the Manchester United game. He might have wanted to build on the momentum. But the injury suffered then could now allow the likes of Carlos Vinicius to take his place.

Besides, Fulham might field a similar side to last weekend, with Willian, Andreas Pereira, and Harry Wilson in the attacking third. Alex Iwobi might also start in midfield alongside Joao Palhinha, while Silva will retain his current full-backs in Timothy Castagne and Antonee Robinson.

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



Key Stats

    Fulham's only league victory in their last 19 visits to Villa Park came in April 2014 (D7 L11). They have lost on all four subsequent trips to take on Aston Villa. Aston Villa are on a run of four straight home wins against Fulham: two in the Premier League and two in the Championship
    Aston Villa can equal the club record of 21 Premier League victories in a calendar year, set in 1998. Only Manchester City have won more often in 2023. They could also start a season with six straight home league wins for the first time since 1959. The Villans last managed this in the top flight in 1932.
    Fulham have only won five of their 85 Premier League away fixtures against sides starting the day in the top six (D22 L58). All three of their league victories this season were against teams who start the weekend below them in the table.
    Aston Villa have scored three goals or more in each of their five Premier League home matches in 2023/24. The only side to do so in six successive home fixtures from the beginning of a season is Manchester City last year.
    Douglas Luiz has provided a goal or assist in each of Villa's seven home league matches since the 1-0 win against Fulham in April. It's the longest run ever by an Aston Villa player in the Premier League

Player to Watch
Ollie Watkins
The English striker made it to another one of Gareth Southgate's squads, and this time around, he will hope his place sticks in the squad. The striker will want to continue impressing with his club form and potentially make Southgate play him regularly.

Having drawn a blank against Nottingham Forest last weekend, Watkins will be eager to return to scoring ways. A sturdy performance against Fulham could re-elevate his levels, help Villa regain their required levels in the league, and even extend his numbers this season.

Prediction
Aston Villa 2-1 Fulham

Aston Villa are on a tremendous run of form ahead of the visit from Fulham at Villa Park. This team led by Unai Emery are on the brink of matching an old, 40-year-old record that would elevate their levels further. Creating history that way would surely put the Spanish tactician on the map with the club. But he would want his players to take all three points irrespective of that.

In recent weeks, Fulham have often met some teams at the wrong time. That is not to say they cannot beat Aston Villa in this contest. But Emerry's side are coming into this game as overwhelming favourites to take three points and keep up the pressure on Arsenal and Liverpool above them on the table.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2023/11/11/aston-villa-vs-fulham-preview-probable-lineups-prediction-tactics-team-news-key-stats-2/

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Fulham set to make official proposal for player in coming days – 'In constant contact' with board over deal
Fulham set to make official proposal for player in coming days – 'In constant contact' with board over deal

That's according to Trivela, who say Fulham 'remain strong in the race' for the highly sought-after Brazilian midfielder.

They explain that Fulham were actually the first side to formalise a proposal for the Brazilian midfielder, who has several clubs in England eyeing up a move for him.

They don't have the financial power of some of the other competitors but that has not stopped them from continuing to chase the player.

They sent representatives directly from England to observe the midfielder in the Copa Libertadores final and his great performance in that game certainly made Fulham 'even more interested' in trying to secure his signature.

Their board 'is in contact' with the Tricolors and intend to make an official proposal in the coming days, having already been the first club to approach the Brazilian side in the first place.

Whether that puts them at an advantage remains to be seen but they remain firmly in the picture despite the increasing competition.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-set-make-official-proposal-player-coming-days-constant-contact-board-deal/

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25-year old Aston Villa star must start against Fulham after 'glorious' cameo
With Fulham travelling to Villa Park this weekend, Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz has to return to the starting XI after being rotated against AZ Alkmaar.

So far this season, Aston Villa have been in top form and there have been many standout performers contributing to that.

Although every member of Unai Emery's squad has had an upward trajectory since his arrival, Douglas Luiz may be the most improved.

The Villa midfield has been one of, if not the, best features of the team this season. Contributing heavily as the Villains sit fifth in the Premier League.

With John McGinn, Boubacar Kamara and Luiz, there is an extremely solid base to the midfield in B6.

Why Douglas Luiz has to start
It is safe to say that Luiz has been the most influential player for Villa this season. There is such an obvious difference when he is and isn't playing.

Under previous managers, he was used as a single pivot at the base of the midfield which didn't suit him. For Emery, he plays as a roaming eight next to the six that is Kamara. This gives him the freedom to express himself and make things happen.

According to Fbref, he is one of the best midfielders in Europe when it comes to scoring goals. You may think that this is due to his penalties, but no. With 0.21 non-penalty goals per 90, he ranks in the top eight percentile.

His other metrics may look middling as he sits in the high 60s and 70s for most others. With that being said, he is just consistently good across the board.

His attacking statistics are great for a midfielder. Luiz registers 3.29 shot-creating actions per 90 and ranks in the top 15% for assists.

Although that may be the case, his defensive exploits are still solid. With 2.33 tackles, 1 block and 0.90 interceptions per 90 he is more than useful tracking back. These stats may not sound amazing but considering he does so much going forward, his well-rounded play style is clear.

Luiz was only rested against AZ Alkmaar but he had to be substituted into the game as Emery looked for an elusive winner.

He provided an assist referred to as 'glorious' by John Townley as the Villains went on to win, such as his influence.

The Brazil international is so important to making the team tick over and he will be needed at Villa Park once again this weekend.



https://www.astonvilla.news/match-coverage/25-year-old-aston-villa-star-must-start-against-fulham-after-glorious-cameo/

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Club eye Fulham man to replace departing star – Can easily afford transfer demands
Spanish side Las Palmas are eyeing up a move for Fulham striker Carlos Vinicius as they look to tweak manager García Pimienta's squad.

That's according to Estadio Deportivo, who say the player is on Las Palmas' list of options they're looking at to replace Munir El Haddadi as he's set to depart.

They explain that Munir is set to move to Saudi Arabia and when he does so, it will leave his club needing to enter the window to find a replacement.

The sports management at Las Palmas, led by Luis Helguera, are assessing their options but are 'thinking about' Fulham's Carlos Vinicius in particular.

The idea is to sell Munir for around €8m before then using that money to approach Fulham over their striker, who is considered an 'eternal promise' yet to flourish in the Premier League.

He's only featured in six league games this season with one goal against Luton to his name and Las Palmas believe that could give them their chance to get their man.

According to Estadio Fulham value Vinicius as €6m, a figure that Las Palmas could manage without difficulty and even more so with the departure of Munir.

The first movements for the transfer have already occurred, hinting talks may already be on behind the scenes, and this is a situation which may pick up pace in the coming weeks.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-eye-fulham-man-replace-departing-star-can-easily-afford-transfer-demands/

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Club's "brilliant" mainstay could be tempted to join Fulham
He's been dazzling abroad.

fulham-craven-cottage-premier-league

Fulham have their eyes on another club's star midfield player amid links to Andre, and it is believed the switch to England could tempt him.

Fulham eyeing January transfers
The west Londoners recently tied down manager Marco Silva with a new contract till 2026, coming as great news considering his past deal was set to expire in the summer.

The Portuguese has played a key role in maintaining Fulham's Premier League status since they were promoted from the Championship in 2022. Fulham even finished above west London rivals Chelsea last season, securing a top half place, and at one point they were contending for European qualification.

Going by their achievements last term, they're not too far off some of the bigger sides, but some positions most certainly need strengthening. Indeed, Fulham are among the division's lowest scoring sides, prompting interest in potent striker options ahead of the winter window.

Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy is one rumoured option, as the Guinea international star was a fine run of 14 goals in eight Bundesliga matches prior to his injury.

Gent striker Gift Orban, who attracted summer interest from the likes of Tottenham, is another name mooted while Silva also plots to reinforce his midfield options.

Fluminese star Andre has been heavily linked this week in that regard, with journalist Emmanuel Luiz even claiming they're ready to pay his release clause of around £40 million.

"Andre wants Liverpool, but Fulham, and I confirmed this, I spoke to some guys at the club and they said that Andre will play for the club that makes the best offer to Fluminense," said Luiz to The Redmen TV.

"He wants Liverpool, and Liverpool wants to pay like £30m, but what Fulham did, they said to Fluminense, he has a £40m release clause, what we want to do as Fulham is to pay the release clause and have some sort of add-on clause."

Fulham want Ferguson and he may be tempted to join
Now, news has come to light on another potential target for the midfield. Indeed, it is believed Bologna star Lewis Ferguson is on Fulham's radar heading into the January transfer window.

The Scotland international has shone since joining the Serie A side from Aberdeen last year, resulting in his value to nearly quadruple in the last 12 months, as reported by Sport Witness.

They share an update from Tuttosport, who make the claim that Ferguson is wanted by Fulham, and while he's happy where he is right now, it is suggested that a move to England could well tempt him.

The 24-year-old has even attracted attention from AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini who is well aware of his exploits, according to Mark Hatetely.

"I am on a group chat with Paolo, and believe me, those sort of people are aware of Lewis Ferguson and how well he is playing," said the former Milan and Rangers striker (via Aberdeen Live).

"Lewis has done brilliant at Bologna. He scored again last week – his seventh of the season from midfield and that's a great return in Serie A. He's going to be a mainstay in the national team."



https://www.footballfancast.com/premier-league-transfer-news-brilliant-mainstay-could-be-tempted-to-join-fulham/