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

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Carlos & Kamara miss out in Aston Villa's predicted lineup vs Fulham
Unai Emery could make three changes to the side that he fielded against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday...

Aston Villa are back in action in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, as Unai Emery's side welcome Fulham to Villa Park on match day 12 of the 2023/24 season.

The Villans will be desperate to get back to winning ways in the league, and after securing three valuable points in the Europa Conference League on Thursday night, the Midlands club will bid to get their form rolling once more.

Emery made four changes to the squad that lost to Nottingham Forest in the league to face AZ Alkmaar in the Conference League, with a similar rotation expected ahead of Sunday's clash.

Here is Villa's predicted lineup vs Fulham and those three alterations from the midweek triumph...

1 GK - Emiliano Martinez
Holder of the 2023 Yashin Trophy, World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez will remain between the sticks for Villa against Fulham. The 31-year-old had a shaky performance during the defeat to Forest, however his quality outside of the mishap is irreplaceable.

2 LB - Lucas Digne
Despite the return of Alex Moreno from injury, Lucas Digne started against AZ and was a continual threat down the left side thanks to his dynamic progressive ability.

Although the Frenchman displays his defensive frailties due to his direct nature when getting forward at full-back, highlighted by him losing possession 20 times vs Forest, his presence down the flank is hard to replace.

No player in the Villa squad averages a higher rate of key passes per game than Digne this season, with the former Everton ace recording an average of two per game in the 2023/24 Premier League, via WhoScored.

3 CB - Pau Torres
Summer capture Pau Torres will almost certainly reclaim his spot in central defence following the rotation mid-week. The Spaniard was forced into action in the dying embers against AZ to replace Diego Carlos.

The Brazilian was forced to withdraw due to a minor injury, making Torres' claim to start against Fulham undeniable.

4 CB - Ezri Konsa
Against AZ, Ezri Konsa assumed the right-back position in place of Matty Cash, and is likely to rejoin forces with Torres in central defence as he has done in the Premier League this term.

With an average pass completion rate of 93.3% per game, only Tyrone Mings - who has played just 31 minutes of the season - tops the charts at Villa in that area, reinforcing Konsa's reliability at the back.

Clement Lenglet will be the player to make way for Konsa's return to central defence, after starting against AZ alongside Carlos on Thursday.

5 RB - Matty Cash
During his pre-match press conference ahead of the AZ clash, Emery revealed that Cash had recovered from a small injury he sustained against Forest last weekend.

The 26-year-old is expected to be restored to the starting XI after starting on the bench in midweek, adding a host of attacking threat to the final third at right-back.

6 CM - Douglas Luiz
Douglas Luiz also started on the bench in midweek, yet the reported Arsenal target will seemingly make his return to the XI to face Fulham.

The £75k-per-week Brazilian was lauded for his "magic" moment to assist Ollie Watkins' winning goal vs AZ on Thursday by journalist John Townley, with his place in the squad irreplaceable as his magnificent form continues.

7 CM - Youri Tielemans
Pairing Luiz is typically Boubacar Kamara, yet the latter man did not enjoy his best outing in Europe this week, notably missing a gilt-edged chance to score and losing possession on ten occasions.

As such, Youri Tielemans could well keep his place in the centre of the park following an 'encouraging display' last time out, as per BirminghamLive's Townley, with the aim now for the summer signing to cement his place in the side moving forward.

8 RW - John McGinn
One of the most reliable players in Emery's side is club captain, John McGinn, who will continue to occupy the left side in the Spaniard's free-flowing midfield four.

To portray his consistency of high performances, the Scotsman hasn't received a Sofascore match rating lower than 7.1 in the Premier League since September, cementing himself as a well-rounded player in the squad.

With two goals and two assists to his name already this season, the 29-year-old could be one to watch against the Cottagers due to his ability to cover significant ground and pop up in unexpected areas to help his team.

9 LW - Leon Bailey
Leon Bailey's assist against AZ this week took his contribution to goals to five in his last five games for Villa, surely warranting him a starting spot in the Premier League over Nicolo Zaniolo.

The Jamaican has only started two league games so far this campaign, scoring three goals and claiming two assists, with the Italian still waiting to contribute in the final third to strengthen Bailey's claim to start against Marco Silva's side.

10 ST - Moussa Diaby
Making up one-half of the strike partnership is Moussa Diaby, who started his first Conference League game of the season against AZ.

The forward has impressed since arriving in the Midlands from Bayer Leverkusen during the summer transfer window, forming an electrifying partnership with Watkins to see his playmaking and clinical streak in front of goal exploited.

With three goals and three assists so far in the league, the Frenchman will be one for Fulham to revise thoroughly, with only Digne averaging more key passes than the 24-year-old with 1.9 per game, via WhoScored.

11 ST - Ollie Watkins
Arguably the first name on the team sheet is Watkins, who showcased his conviction in the final third again in midweek, scoring his tenth goal of the 2023/24 campaign to confirm three points for his side vs AZ.

Along with five assists, the Englishman has already contributed to 15 goals in only 18 appearances in all competitions, telling of the crucial part he plays in Emery's front line and Villa's overall form.

TalkSPORT pundit Dean Saunders described the 27-year-old as being "on fire" at the end of last season, with his form only continuing to spill into this term to the delight of everyone at Villa Park.

Full Aston Villa predicted XI: GK - Emiliano Martinez; LB - Lucas Digne, CB - Ezri Konsa, CB - Pau Torres, RB - Matty Cash, CM - Douglas Luiz, CM - Boubacar Kamara, LW - Leon Bailey, RW - John McGinn, ST - Moussa Diaby, ST - Ollie Watkins.



https://www.footballfancast.com/aston-villa-matchday-team-news-predicted-lineup-premier-league/#st---ollie-watkins

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Full Fulham squad available for Aston Villa as two ruled out
Latest Aston Villa news from BirminghamLive as Unai Emery's side will host Marco Silva's Fulham at Villa Park

Head coach Marco Silva will be without two Fulham players as they head to Villa Park on Sunday (2pm).

Aston Villa will be in search of their 13th consecutive home win following the disappointing defeat at Nottingham Forest last time out. Fulham meanwhile, will be looking to end a three-game winless run.

Silva confirmed striker Rodrigo Muniz and Issa Diop will miss out due to a knee and ankle injury respectively. He said: "Rodrigo will be out for around three to four weeks, could be more.

"It's a big blow for us, I have to say. Because he was showing his quality, he was stepping in and made a very good impact. The only player who remains out with Rodrigo is Diop."

 Trio Adama Traore, Tosin Adarabioyo and Kenny Tete are nearing a return from injury. They could feature from the bench, with Silva saying : "They are working with the team, then it's up to me tomorrow."

Full Fulham squad available to Silva...
Goalkeepers: Marek Rodak, Bernd Leno, Steven Benda.

Defenders: Calvin Bassey, Fode Ballo-Toure, Tim Ream, Timothy Castagne, Antonee Robinson.

Midfielders: Harrison Reed, Tom Cairney, Andreas Pereira, Joao Palhinha, Sasa Lukic, Tyrese Francois, Luke Harris.

Forwards: Raul Jimenez, Harry Wilson, Bobby De Cordova-Reid, Wilian, Alex Iwobi, Carlos Vinicius.

Doubtful: Adama Traore, Tosin Adarabioyo and Kenny Tete.

Ruled out: Rodrigo Muniz, Issa Diop.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/full-fulham-squad-available-aston-28089826

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Match Preview: Aston Villa v Fulham - Can Unai Emery's men get back to winning ways in the Premier League?
Fulham make the trip to Villa Park on Sunday, with Aston Villa aiming to maintain the gap between themselves in fifth spot and the teams below them. Here is everything you need to know prior to kick-off!

The Build-Up
It is back-to-back home games for the Villa as we witnessed a 2-1 victory over AZ Alkmaar at home on Thursday evening in our fourth Europe Conference League group-stage fixture. Goals from Diego Carlos and Ollie Watkins, who earned another England call-up in the week, helped seal all three points.

In addition to this, an in-form Douglas Luiz received news in the week that he is in the latest Brazil squad for their upcoming fixtures, which is thoroughly deserved.

Hopefully both players can play a big part in securing another win at home in the Premier League when Aston Villa face Fulham.

It is safe to say that Unai Emery and his men will be wanting to put on a strong performance for the fans after a surprising 2-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last time out.

Emery was informed in his pre-match interview that he has earned more points than Jurgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta since he took charge at Villa, to which he replied, "I want to win on Sunday, I want to win on Sunday, I want to win on Sunday, no more."

Elite mentality, as always, on display from Unai.

Unai also spoke about Sunday's opponents, "Fulham, I respect a lot. The history of Fulham. The players of Fulham. And the coach, the coach is a very good coach, experienced coach, very organised team, very competitive team".

Fulham's defeats so far in the Premier League have come against Brentford, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United; all being incredibly tough fixtures.

Last week, they were left devastated as Bruno Fernandes broke Fulham hearts with a 90+1 minute winner. They have also held last year's runner-up, Arsenal, to a 2-2 draw at the Emirates earlier on in the season.

Both sides earned a win over each other last season as the Craven Cottage fixture saw Villa lose 3-0 in what was to be Steven Gerrard's final game in charge of the club.

Who scored for Fulham in that tie? Aleksandar Mitrovic. The Serbian striker is no longer at the club after a summer move to Saudi Pro League club, Al Hilal. He was Fulham's main goal threat and since his transfer overseas, the London club have struggled for goals.

Scoring nine goals so far this season, only a Burnley side who sit 19th have scored less (8).

They have multiple striker options including Raul Jimenez, Vinicius and Rodrigo Muniz, however, between the three of them only one goal has been scored. This came from Vinicius in a 1-0 victory over Luton Town.

The midfield contest will be one to keep an eye on throughout this game as Douglas Luiz and Boubacar Kamara will come up against a solid Joao Palhinha, who has made the most tackles in the Premier League this season with 50. That is 13 more than any other player, with former Villan, Marvelous Nakamba, in second place with 37.

Villa will be hoping they can make it 13 consecutive Premier League wins at Villa Park come Sunday evening.

Team News
Emery updated the fans with team news in his pre-match interview saying that it will be "difficult" for Diego Carlos to make the squad for Sunday's game due to a potential "small injury" that he picked up against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday night.

The Spaniard also offered an update on Jacob Ramsey, "Ramsey is progressing very well, he's close to being with us in the training session everyday, but not yet."

Alex Moreno is progressing "very good" and is available to be in the squad.

Emiliano Buendia and Tyrone Mings remain long-term absentees.

There are no other injury concerns for Villa.

When it comes to the visitors, Rodrigo Muniz faces several weeks out for Fulham. This is due to a knee injury that he picked up against Manchester United last weekend.

Tosin Adarabioyo, Kenny Tete and Adama Traore could return to the matchday squad, but are unlikely to start (via BBC Sport).

Likely Lineups
Aston Villa (4-2-2-2)

Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Pau, Digne; Kamara, Douglas Luiz; McGinn, Zaniolo; Diaby, Watkins

Fulham (4-2-3-1)

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

Score Prediction
Fulham's clear lack of goal threat will cost them in this one. However, it does have to be mentioned that Villa at times have been a bit shaky with that high back line. The goal that Emery's men conceded against AZ on Thursday was far too easy, so that could be something that Marco Silva looks to exploit. As things stand, Villa have the chance to move up to fourth with a win on Sunday and a Liverpool loss against Brentford. It is Fulham's turn to enter the Lion's den!

Prediction: Aston Villa 3 Fulham 0



https://7500toholte.sbnation.com/2023/11/11/23956909/match-preview-aston-villa-v-fulham-can-emerys-men-get-back-to-winning-ways-in-the-premier-league

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Rob Page: Harry Wilson has been one of Wales' main men since Gareth Bale retired
Harry Wilson is driving Wales' bid for Euro 2024 success after emerging from the shadow of Gareth Bale, says manager Rob Page.

Wilson kept Wales' hopes of automatic qualification alive by scoring twice in last month's stunning 2-1 win over World Cup semi-finalists Croatia, 10 years to the day since becoming his country's youngest-ever male player at the age of 16 years and 207 days.

Former captain Bale scored a record 41 goals for Wales before retiring from football in January.

"H has been around for a long time," Page said ahead of Wales' final Euro 2024 qualifiers against Armenia and Turkey that will determine whether they can secure a top-two spot in Group D and avoid the play-offs in March.

"Because of the players we had available before in Gareth, Joe Allen and Jonny Williams, perhaps he looked at it, and he was turning up and feeling he was a squad player.

"We had a chat with him in the summer and said: 'You are no longer that person or player. You are a big player for us. Look at what you are doing at club level'.

"Go back about 12 months ago, he would turn up and expect to be part of the squad, or if he started he would be substituted on the hour mark.

"But the mentality has changed now. He's playing in the Premier League, scoring goals and creating chances.

"When he plays for us now he's one of the main men and showed that in the last game. I don't expect him to come in and just accept playing for 55, 60 minutes.

"I want him to have that mentality that he is one of our top players now and he is going to go and win games for us."

Wilson won his 50th cap against Croatia and his first international double took him to eight goals for his country.

The Liverpool product is also benefiting from being settled at Fulham after loan spells at Crewe, Hull, Derby, Bournemouth and Cardiff earlier in his career.

Page said: "He has stepped up to the plate. I'm so pleased for him because he's not just a good player, he's an absolute diamond of a kid.

"I said to the young lads up in Wrexham for the Gibraltar game: 'Just watch him warm up'. Everything he does is to the nth degree.

"He's the nicest fella you will ever meet off the pitch, but when he crosses that line he's a model example of what you would want a modern footballer to look like.

"You can see why he has had the career he has and why he is playing in the Premier League, and why he is now getting the plaudits that he has got for us."

Wales will qualify automatically for next summer's European Championship in Germany by beating Armenia in Yerevan on Saturday and Turkey in Cardiff three days later.

Page's side are guaranteed a play-off place through their top-tier status in the last edition of the Nations League.



https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/rob-page-harry-wilson-one-223047317.html

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Harry Wilson: Fulham forward now one of Wales 'main men' - Page

Harry Wilson (R) and Gareth Bale helped Wales reach the 2022 World Cup, the nation's first since 1958

Euro 2024 qualifying: Armenia v Wales
Venue: Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium, Yerevan Date: Saturday, 18 November Kick-off: 14:00 GMT
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 22: 45 GMT and later on demand

Harry Wilson has become one of Wales "main men" as the golden era driven by Gareth Bale fades into history, according to manager Robert Page.
Bale's Wales men's record of 41 goals before retiring earned him iconic status among Wales fans.

Page says since the exit of Bale, Joe Allen and Jonny Williams, Wilson's squad status has been transformed.

"Perhaps he looked at it and he was turning up and feeling he was a squad player," said Page of the Fulham star.

"We had a chat with him in the summer and said: 'You are no longer that person or player.

"You are a big player for us. Look at what you are doing at club level'.

"Go back about 12 months ago, he would turn up and expect to be part of the squad, or if he started he would be substituted on the hour mark.

"But the mentality has changed now. He's playing in the Premier League, scoring goals and creating chances.

"When he plays for us now he's one of the main men and showed that in the last game. I don't expect him to come in and just accept playing for 55, 60 minutes.

"I want him to have that mentality that he is one of our top players now and he is going to go and win games for us."

Wilson's response to that summer chat included both goals in Wales' stunning 2-1 win over World Cup semi-finalists Croatia in October that turned around Wales' campaign.

Wales will qualify for the European Championship if they win their last two Group D games against Armenia and Turkey later this month.

Page's side tackle Armenia in Yerevan on Saturday, 18 November, then face group leaders Turkey three days later in Cardiff.

However, if they do not achieve automatic qualification, Wales have a play-off place through their top-tier ranking in the last edition of the Nations League.

Wilson's brace against Croatia was scored as he celebrated exactly 10 years since becoming Wales' youngest cap, aged 16 and 207 days.

Since emerging from the the Liverpool academy, Wilson has established himself at Fulham following loan stints at Crewe, Hull, Derby, Bournemouth and Cardiff City.

"He has stepped up to the plate. I'm so pleased for him because he's not just a good player, he's an absolute diamond of a kid," said Page.

"I said to the young lads up in Wrexham for the Gibraltar game: 'Just watch him warm up'. Everything he does is to the nth degree.

"He's the nicest fella you will ever meet off the pitch, but when he crosses that line he's a model example of what you would want a modern footballer to look like.

"You can see why he has had the career he has and why he is playing in the Premier League, and why he is now getting the plaudits that he has got for us."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67394497

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Tielemans out, £15m man in: Aston Villa predicted XI vs Fulham
Fulham travel to Villa Park looking to break Aston Villa's excellent home form which has spanned nine months. After a Conference League win in midweek, let's take a look at our predicted XI.

Last weekend, it didn't go right for Aston Villa as they suffered their first loss since September away to Nottingham Forest.

On the day, Unai Emery's side was left frustrated by two long-range goals and some great defending by the home side.

During the week, Villa secured their third consecutive Conference League win as they came back from behind to beat AZ Alkmaar.

Even with that win, fans and players alike will be keen to bounce back to winning ways in the Premier League straight away.

Fulham are the opponents this weekend who will be looking to get back to winning ways after a defeat last time out themselves.

With three wins, three draws and five defeats it has been a tough start to the season for the Cottagers. They currently sit in fifteenth but a win could send them as high as 10th, should goal difference swing massively.

Here is our predicted XI vs Fulham...

Aston Villa predicted XI
The same way each of these predicted XI's start is that Emi Martinez will be in goal for Aston Villa. That will come as a surprise to nobody and he will want to rid the hoodoo of the Forest game. His performance against AZ was solid so it is clear he hasn't let the "error" get to him.

After missing out on starting in the week, Matty Cash will retake his place at right back as he did off the bench. He started the season well but in recent weeks hasn't appeared as confident as he once did. Hopefully, that can change this weekend.

In the centre-back department, this is as easy as the goalkeeper selection. Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres will line up together once again to continue their solid partnership.

Another easy position to round off the defence is at left-back with Lucas Digne. Despite not covering himself in glory against Forest, he was positive and will look to continue his great form.

The midfield has three players basically guaranteed to take their place. John McGinn, Douglas Luiz and Boubacar Kamara will all start the game as they form Emery's core. The fourth option is more difficult with Leon Bailey and Nicolo Zaniolo vying for the role. After a good performance against AZ, Bailey makes our predicted XI.

It is safe to say that Ollie Watkins will keep his role as Villa number nine, as he has done all season. After getting back on the scoresheet in midweek he will be hopeful of following suit in the Premier League.

There is a chance that Moussa Diaby could lose his place after a very lacklustre showing against AZ. Zaniolo replaced him in that game but having started every Premier League game so far, Diaby makes our predicted XI.

Predicted XI vs Fulham: Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne, Bailey, Kamara, Luiz, McGinn, Watkins, Diaby



https://www.astonvilla.news/match-coverage/tielemans-out-15m-man-in-aston-villa-predicted-xi-vs-fulham/

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Sources: Fulham plot January defender raid
Fulham could sign both a centre-back and central midfielder in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.

The Cottagers are keen to add to their defender options as they prepare to lose Tosin Adarabioyo when his contract expires at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

It is believed they are now scouring the market for potential targets with weeks to go until the mid-season window opens.

Football Insider has already revealed (11 November) that Fulham could smash their transfer record with a £40million-plus striker signing in January.

Meanwhile, a central midfielder could also come onto the January agenda if interest in Joao Palhinha resurfaces.

The Portugal international came close to leaving for Bayern Munich in the most recent summer window but has since signed a new contract keeping him until June 2028.

That agreement means any sale would only serve to boost Fulham's budget even more.

Football Insider revealed on Friday (10 November) that Marco Silva's side are set to be one of the busiest Premier League clubs in the upcoming January transfer window.

The London club are ready to back their manager with a big war chest in the new year after he pledged his future to the club with a new contract last month.

They have already spent big money in the 2023-24 campaign – bringing the likes of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey to the club in the summer.

Fulham sit 15th in the table – six points clear of the relegation zone after 11 games.

Silva's side are next in action against Aston Villa on Sunday (12 November).



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-plot-january-defender-raid/

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Up next: Aston Villa (a)
After the desolation of last weekend's late defeat by Manchester United, Fulham face arguably one of their toughest tests of the season at Villa Park this afternoon. Unai Emery has totally transformed Aston Villa in his short spell at the helm from a rabble in danger of relegation that he inherited after a meek capitulation at Craven Cottage into one of the continent's most exciting outfits. Villa, who shrugged off the setback of conceding an early goal to triumph over AZ Alkmaar in the Europa Conference League on Thursday, are especially strong at home, where the Whites haven't won since Hugo Rodallega's late header gave Felix Magath's feint hope of avoiding the drop in 2014.

Emery's thirst for victory was emphasised during his press conference this week when, upon being informed that he had collected more points than Mikel Arteta and Jurgen Klopp since being appointed Steven Gerrard's successor, he insisted that he only 'wanted to win on Sunday'. Returning to winning ways domestically after a surprise defeat at Nottingham Forest last time out would clinch a thirteenth consecutive top-flight home win for the first time in forty years and see the Villains register six straight wins at the elite level of English football for the first time since 1932.

His team have demolished the opposition at Villa Park this season. In contrast to Fulham's woeful return of just nine goals in eleven league games, Villa have scored three or more goals in all five of their home Premier League fixtures so far this term. The only team to extend that record to six matches is Manchester City, with Pep Guardiola's champions stitching together that run at the start of last season. Ollie Watkins, who earned another England call-up earlier this week, took his goalscoring tally into double figures with the winner over AZ making it ten for the season, whilst Moussa Diaby – likely to start alongside the former Exeter and Brentford forward – has three goals and three assists already.

The threat comes from all over the field with Douglas Luiz, who has provided either a goal or an assist in each home game since Villa narrowly beat Fulham back in April, having found the net six times already this term. Lively winger Leon Bailey has already notched six times this season, whilst John McGinn and Jhon Dhuran are on four goals each. Emery does have some injury concerns ahead of this afternoon's fixture with Diego Carlos unlikely to be fit after limping out of the AZ tie with a muscle complaint, although Alex Moreno appears to be ready to make a first appearance since injuring his hamstring in May.

Silva, a disciple of Emery's since the Spaniard's Sevilla days, was clear in his own pre-match comments this week that he wanted his players to relish the challenge of ending Villa's remarkable home run. There was much to admire about Fulham's battling display against Manchester United, even if the head coach castigated his defenders for failing to clear the ball before Bruno Fernandes' stoppage-time strike, and saved some opprobrium for the forwards who frequently picked the wrong option in the final third before that. The Fulham head coach praised Rodrigo Muniz for the quality of his hold-up play before the Brazilian sustained an untimely knee injury – and that leaves Silva with a choice between Raul Jimenez, who hasn't scored in 33 league games, and Carlos Vinicius to lead the line.

Fulham's injury crisis is easing with Kenny Tete, Tosin Adarabioyo and Adama Traore all back in full training and available for selection, although Silva admitted none of them were likely to return to the starting line-up. That should lead to a hundredth Premier League appearance for Timothy Castagne with left-footers Tim Ream and Calvin Bassey paired together at the heart of the defence. The performance of Joao Palhinha, who has already racked up a half century of successful tackles in the top flight, will be pivotal to preventing Villa finding their usual rhythm on home turf, but the Whites will need to find some fluency of their own in the last third of the pitch.

Harry Wilson, whom Rob Page has identified as one of his key players for Wales since the retirement of Gareth Bale, enjoyed his best game of a stop-start campaign last Saturday lunchtime without reward, but the form of Andreas Pereira, so pivotal to Fulham's persistent pressing and creativity last term, has to be a concern. The Brazilian barely flickered as an attacking force against his old club and there might be a case for pushing Alex Iwobi further forward into his favoured number ten role or including Tom Cairney, who has a history of turning it on against Villa. That's before Silva settles the vexed question of who leads the line.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, A. Robinson, Bassey, Ream; Palhinha, Iwobi; Wilson, Willian, Cairney; Jimenez. Subs: Rodak, Tete, Adarabioyo, Reed, Lukic, Decordova-Reid, Traore, Pereira, Vinicius.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/11/up-next-aston-villa-a-4/

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Ezri Konsa on notice vs Fulham after error-strewn display in shock Aston Villa loss to Nottingham Forest
Key Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa will need to show a major improvement from last week for the visit of Fulham or could see his place under threat despite playing every minute in the Premier League so far.

The centre-back has been an ever-present in the top flight for Unai Emery this term but was at fault for one of Nottingham Forest's goals in the shock 2-0 defeat last weekend, and could have caused at least two more.

Konsa, 26, is usually so dependable but looked visibly out of sorts at the City Ground as the Villans sparkling form came to a sudden halt.

It will take more than one nightmare afternoon for Emery to lose confidence and the Spaniard is sure to restore the defender to his usual league spot at centre-back, having put in a shift on the right for the Europa Conference League win over AZ Alkmaar on 9 November.

But if he produces a repeat of his display in defeat last weekend when Marco Silva's side arrive at Villa Park on 12 November it might make the manager think twice about bringing Diego Carlos into the Premier League XI, with the £26million signing [The Athletic] still only having made four starts in the English top flight.

Konsa played a big role in Aston Villa conceding the second goal to Forest's Orel Mangala last Sunday (5 November), even if his part was overshadowed by the bizarre attempted save from Emi Martinez that bounced into the net.



In the 47th minute He should have cut out a weak Harry Toffolo ball in from the left that was half-blocked by Matty Cash, but was instead deceived by the bounce and allowed Taiwo Awoniyi to take possession in the box.



With the defence suddenly put on the back foot the striker could then recycle the ball back out to Toffolo who found Mangala in space outside the area to hit his speculative shot towards goal which would end up bouncing over the line.



It had been a similarly off-colour story immediately before the break as well as Konsa had also been lucky not to concede a stoppage-time penalty for a potential foul on Awoniyi, only to be rescued by the flag and the video assistant.



As Morgan Gibbs-White played a ball over the top from the right flank Konsa stepped up towards the half-way line at the same time Pau Torres turned to chase back, meaning the Spaniard played both the striker and teammate Nicolas Dominguez onside while Konsa was left trailing yards behind.



Konsa was still the only one with his arm in the air appealing despite Torres being in his field of vision, before his attempt to chase back only led to him clumsily felling Awoniyi in the box.



A narrow VAR decision saved him from a possible red card for a challenge that hadn't been an attempt at the ball, and while that might invite the conclusion that it was a successful offside trap it was surely more luck than design as he and his central defensive partner weren't on the same wave length.

Konsa continued to look rattled shortly after the Mangala goal, as he needlessly surrendered possession with a wayward pass in midfield under no pressure at all – one of five times he gave the ball away according to SofaScore stats from the game.

As with the Martinez error to concede the second goal Konsa was far from alone in underperforming on the day, as the stats show that star man Torres actually gave it away 12 times, so perhaps the Englishman simply suffered from making the more noticeable errors.



On 50 minutes Konsa attempted to deliver a short pass into Boubacar Kamara who was showing to receive possession, only to miss him completely with a simple ball to leave the pair gesturing at each other in frustration.



Ibrahaim Sangaré swept up possession and played a first-time ball into Awoniyi, who combined with Anthony Elanga to launch a counter-attack.

After Cash had joined the calamitous party by falling over as he attempted to regain possession, the ball found its way to Awoniyi in the Aston Villa box with Torres and Konsa in close company.

However, rather than win the ball it was nudged through the latter's legs as his nightmare afternoon continued, to hand Dominguez a dangerous shot on goal from close range, which he scuffed tamely straight at Martinez.



As long as Konsa rebounds to his standard level against Fulham then the Forest defeat can be chalked up to a bad day at the office all round, with various players contributing to a performance well short of what has come to be expected of an Emery Villa side.

Yet it was alarming that in the space of just a few minutes either side of half-time such an important Villa player nearly played a leading role in the concession of three goals, so he will clearly want to iron that sort of lapse out.

Torres hardly showered himself in glory on the day either, even if he was more of the supporting cast to Konsa in the previous examples.

Everyone can have an off day, and it as long as there is no repeat it does not need to be a major slight on a player who has been largely excellent, but it is a measure of the increase in standards at Aston Villa that it stood out when they dropped.

Emery is sure to have his eye on a response from a player he has come to rely on or he might be faced with an unexpected decision to make.



https://www.astonvillanews.co.uk/2023/11/12/ezri-konsa-on-notice-vs-fulham-after-error-strewn-display-in-shock-aston-villa-loss-to-nottingham-forest/

[WhiteJC]

Big game against Fulham today, form and match facts from the BBC
Last week was an opportunity we didn't take and because of that, Manchester United are a point behind us. Not taking the opportunity we have today would mean that we only have three wins out of the last six.

I know that sounds ridiculous to write, only three wins out of of the last six because it's actually very good. But if our form always shows we've won three out of the last six, it means we're not going to finish near the top four. Last year, we were one match shy of winning half our matches and we finished 7th. We need to see four in that form table.

So Fulham today is a little more important. It's not just about staying with the pack above, it's about form.

If we win, our form will be where we need it to be against a side that has one win in the last six. If we don't win, it gives all the teams below us a big opportunity next time out and things could look very different after Spurs.

But we're at home and everyone knows all the above and our manager is one of the best at this. But it will be hard and it will mean things have to click, but I just think they will. Or let me say, I hope they will.

Match facts from the BBC
Head-to-head

    Fulham's only league victory in their past 19 visits to Villa Park came in April 2014 (D7, L11). They have lost on all four subsequent trips.
    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

    Villa are vying to win a 13th top-flight home game in a row for the first time in 40 years.
    Unai Emery's side 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. They last managed this in the top flight in 1932.
    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.
    The Villans are unbeaten in the past 19 Premier League games in which they took the lead, including seven wins out of seven this season .
    A sixth league win in a row against London opposition would be an unprecedented feat for Aston Villa.
    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.

Fulham

    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.
    However, the Cottagers are yet to suffer consecutive league defeats in 2023-24.
    They only have nine league goals this season and are on a run of seven successive games without scoring in the first half.
    Raul Jimenez has gone 33 Premier League appearances without a goal since scoring in Wolves' 4-0 home win against Watford in March 2022.
    Timothy Castagne is one short of making 100 Premier League appearances.



https://www.thevillablog.co.uk/aston-villa-blog/avfc-opinion/big-game-against-fulham-today-form-and-match-facts-from-the-bbc

[WhiteJC]

Cottage Fixture: One Week To Go!

With just seven days until Fulham FC Women return to Craven Cottage, there's no better time to secure your seat.

Join us for Fulham FC Women's Capital Cup clash against Arsenal Women Academy in SW6 on Sunday 19th November, kick-off 2:30pm.

With the Whites currently unbeaten since August, don't miss out on your chance to be there for all the action at our historic home!

Bring family and friends along to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment, including face painting, balloon modelling and live music, with tickets priced at £5 for adults and just £1 for juniors!

SECURE YOUR SEAT

Supporters can purchase tickets online, over the phone 0203 871 0810 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm) or in person from the Fulham FC Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9:30am-4:30pm).

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/november/12/just-one-week-to-go/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham ready to pay in excess of £40 million to strengthen problem position
Fulham are looking to go big to land a new number nine at the club in the winter transfer window.

The Cottagers are looking to spend in excess of £40 million to sign a new striker according to a report by Football Insider.

The Cottagers haven't had the best of times in the ongoing season. They are currently 16th on the points table with 12 points out of 11 matches. Marco Silva's team have suffered five defeats and have only won thrice.

Their manager's concern since the start of the 2023-24 season has been their form in front of the goal. They are amongst the lowest-scoring teams in the division. The departure of Aleksandar Mitrović seems to have been a big blow for the team. The Serbian international parted ways with the club in the summer of joining Al-Hilal in what was a big money. They did sign Raul Jimenez from Wolves for a fee of approx £5.5 million but that transfer hasn't gone according to plan as the Mexican international is yet to find the back of the net.

Mitrović's departure has reduced their firepower in attack and the Cottagers are now looking for a new number nine to sort things out. They are willing to smash their existing transfer record of £25 million paid to Nice in 2018 to land midfielder Jean Michael Seri.

Fulham are looking to back their manager Marco Silva who has recently penned down a new deal until the summer of 2026. They are ready to offer him whatever help they can to ensure the Cottagers stay in the Premier League for a few more years to come.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2023/11/12/fulham-ready-to-pay-in-excess-of-40-million-to-strengthen-problem-position/

[WhiteJC]