Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 22/11/23...

[WhiteJC]

US qualifies for Copa América despite 2-1 loss at Trinidad after Sergiño Dest ejected for arguing

Sergiño Dest lost his composure in a needless dispute with the referee, getting a pair of yellow cards for dissent in a 30-second span that endangered the United States' berth in next year's Copa América.

Trinidad won 2-1 on Monday night in Port-of-Spain, overcoming a deficit by scoring twice after Dest's 39th-minute ejection left the U.S. a man short. The Americans held on to win the total-goals series 4-2 and earn spots in the 16-nation Copa América and the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals.

U.S. captain Tim Ream revealed there were "choice words" for Dest at halftime.

"There's not too many things that I can say here publicly that we said privately," Ream said. "It´s a complete lack of respect for the guys that are playing, for the guys that are on the bench, feeling of lack of respect for the game itself, for the referees."

Following a 3-0 win last week at Austin, Texas, Antonee Robinson scored in the 25th minute off Dest´s cross to give the 11th-ranked U.S. a four-goal series lead in the Nations League quarterfinal.

Reon Moore tied the score in the 43rd off a long ball from Alvin Jones, getting past defender Cameron Carter-Vickers and beating Turner to the near post. Jones put the 99th-ranked Soca Warriors ahead in the 57th with a 30-yard free kick off the hands of goalkeeper Matt Turner, who tried to parry the swerving shot. Jones scored a similar long-range goal in October 2017 against Tim Howard in a 2-1 win at Couva, about 20 miles south, that ended the Americans´ streak of World Cup appearances at seven.


United States' Brenden Aaronson, center, fights for the ball with Trinidad and Tobago's Shannon Gomez, right, and Real Gill, left, during a CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal soccer match in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Azlan Mohammed)
The U.S. was in control until Dest, upset officials ruled he didn´t keep a ball from going out near midfield, punted the ball away toward the far end. That earned the first yellow from Guatemalan referee Walter López, and the 23-year-old defender then pointed toward where no foul was called moments earlier when Andre Rampersad pushed him over.

"It´s inexcusable," U.S. coach Gregg Berhalter said. "It was surreal."

Dest argued with López as Gio Reyna and Ream tried to keep him away, Reyna trying to cover Dest´s mouth. López raised two fingers and showed a second yellow and a red. Ream and Turner screamed at Dest as he walked off the field.

"It is concerning because that´s not what we represent, that´s not who we are as a group," Berhalter said. "We pride ourselves in staying mentally disciplined, battling through any type of conditions. Whether they´re good decisions or bad decisions, we´re supposed to keep going and respond in an appropriate way, and that obviously wasn´t the right response from Sergiño. He apologized to the group. He said it´s not going to happen again. As a team, the players, the staff, we need to hold him accountable."

Dest will be suspended for the Nations League semifinal in March. He missed this year´s Nations League final after getting a red card and a three-game ban for scuffling in the semifinal against Mexico.

"We were very firm with with our words after the game," Berhalter said. "He put a number of guys in jeopardy, made a number of guys do a lot of extra work in this weather."

American team spokesman Michael Kammarman said CONCACAF rules prohibit players who receive red cards from speaking with media after matches. CONCACAF general secretary Philippe Moggio referred a request for comment to spokesman Alvaro Urrutia, who cited the regulation. Neither Moggio not Urrutia explained why the rule blocking media access was in place.

"I want to apologize to my Teammates, Staff, Fans and whole nation for my behaviour it was unacceptable, Selfish and immature I let my team down!" Dest wrote on Instagram. "It´s something I have to learn from and it won´t happen again!"

Berhalter tried to look ahead.

"Serge has done a great job of maturing and growing over the years that he´s been with the group and for him this has to be a learning experience," the coach said. "We give people second chances. We work with people. We help them overcome instances like this."

"What I don´t want this to turn into is a witch hunt," Berhalter added. "He´s a young player, is a fantastic part of this team. He´s going to learn. He´s going to grow. He made a dumb mistake. He knows that. He apologized to the team and we´ve moved forward."

The U.S. finished the year with 11 wins, four losses and three draws, going 4-2 in the start of Berhalter´s second term as coach. The match in largely empty Hasely Crawford Stadium was 34 years and one day after Paul Caligiuri´s goal there lifted the U.S. to a 1-0 win and into its first World Cup in 40 years.

Robinson scored on a diving header from Dest's cross, getting by Shannon Gomez and redirecting the ball past goalkeeper Denzil Smith from 10 yards for his fourth international goal and second in two games. Robinson tucked the ball under his jersey in the celebration to indicate his fiancée is expecting a child in April.

The feeling was similar to the one at Costa Rica in March 2022, when the U.S. qualified for the World Cup despite a 2-0 defeat.

"It´s obviously bittersweet," Robinson said.


Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper Denzil Smith, center, catches a shot from United States' Giovanni Reyna, right, during a CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal soccer match at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Azlan Mohammed)
 

United States' goalkeeper Matthew Turner, center, reacts after catching a goal from Trinidad and Tobago's Albin Jones, during a CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal soccer match at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Azlan Mohammed)
 

United States' Malik Tillman, down, fights for the ball with Trinidad and Tobago's Daniel Phillips, top, during a CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal soccer match at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Azlan Mohammed)
 

United States' Ricardo Pepi, left, fights for the ball with Trinidad and Tobago's Reon More, right, during a CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal soccer match at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Azlan Mohammed)
 

United States' Antonee Robinson celebrates his goal against Trinidad and Tobago during a CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal soccer match at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Azlan Mohammed)
 

A Trinidad and Tobago supporter cheers during the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal match against the United States at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Azlan Mohammed)
 

United States supporters cheer during a game against Trinidad and Tobago at a CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals soccer match at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Azlan Mohammed)



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-12773455/US-qualifies-Copa-Am-rica-despite-loss-Trinidad-Sergi-o-Dest-ejected-arguing.html

[WhiteJC]

USMNT ratings: Robinson superb, Dest reckless vs. Trinidad & Tobago
The U.S. men's national team closed out its Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal series against Trinidad and Tobago with a 2-1 away loss on Monday, which was enough to win 4-2 on aggregate and qualify for the 2024 Copa America.

Held at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, the game began promisingly for the USMNT, which took a lead in the 25th minute off a goal from Antonee Robinson. Things seemed straightforward given that the U.S. already led 3-0 from the first leg, but the match was then flipped on its head after fullback Sergiño Dest earned back-to-back yellows and an ensuing red due to arguing with the referee.

Galvanized by the man advantage, Trinidad and Tobago leveled in the 43rd minute after a goal from Reon Moore. After the break, the hosts made it 2-1 when Alvin Jones found the back of the net in the 57th minute. Needing at least three more goals to win on aggregate, Trinidad and Tobago pushed forward in the final stages but ultimately fell short.

While the USMNT will now prepare for the Nations League semifinals in March, Trinidad and Tobago will have one last opportunity for Copa America qualification through a single-elimination play-in match that will take place in the same month.

Manager rating (scale of 1-10)

Gregg Berhalter, 4 -- Although Dest's red was an unexpected curveball for Berhalter, the manager couldn't find a way to quickly bolster his defense and avoid the loss. With his side wilting under increasing pressure, Berhalter couldn't shift the momentum that remained in Trinidad and Tobago's favor until the final 5-10 minutes.
USMNT Player ratings (0-10; 10 = best; 5 = average)

GK Matt Turner, 5 -- The Nottingham Forest goalkeeper could have done better on both goals he conceded, especially the second.

DF Sergiño Dest, 1 -- Credit to him for an assist and his runs forward, but Dest completely lost his composure with unnecessary back-to-back yellows. A bizarre and shocking moment from the 23-year-old, who will need to be sharper and more disciplined in big moments.

DF Cameron Carter-Vickers, 6 -- Some good defensive interventions, although he was questionable at times when the hosts pressured the USMNT back line.

DF Tim Ream, 7 -- The USMNT captain worked well with Carter-Vickers and looked strong with his aerial duels.

DF Antonee Robinson, 8 -- Despite losing possession a couple of times in dangerous areas, Robinson emerged as one of the most active players in the night. His 25th-minute goal was the icing on the cake of a great performance.

MF Yunus Musah, 6 -- Musah was great with his distribution but left room for improvement with his one-on-one duels.

MF Luca de la Torre, 6 -- Made good runs forward, but like Musah, the midfielder wasn't always in complete control of his area of the pitch. Having to deal with being a man down obviously didn't help in this regard.

MF Brenden Aaronson, 7 -- One of the more energetic players, Aaronson asked early questions of Trinidad and Tobago through his dangerous shots. Beyond that, his distribution was also impressive.

MF Gio Reyna, 7 -- Reyna was a clever playmaker for the USMNT, often pulling necessary strings in the final third before being substituted out due to the Dest red.

FW Ricardo Pepi, 6 -- There was a promising partnership being built between Pepi and Balogun, but he still couldn't manage a single shot in his 65 minutes.

FW Folarin Balogun, 6 -- Balogun took early chances and dropped deep to get the ball but eventually had to play a more cautious game by the second half.
Substitutes (players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating)

DF Joe Scally, 5 -- A quiet evening for the player who could earn plenty of minutes in the not-too-distant future after Dest's red.

MF Malik Tillman, 6 -- Did well to eventually help the USMNT close up shop and win back the ball in the final stages.

MF Lennard Maloney, NR -- Came on in the 90th minute and didn't get to show much.



https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38948225/usmnt-ratings-robinson-superb-dest-reckless-vs-trinidad-tobago

[WhiteJC]

Leicester City: Enzo Maresca makes Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall claim amid Liverpool, Fulham transfer interest
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has become a key performer for Leicester City this season

    Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is Leicester City's most improved player this season, attracting interest from Fulham and Liverpool.
    Dewsbury-Hall has contributed five goals and six assists in 16 league appearances so far.
    Enzo Maresca, the coach, praises Dewsbury-Hall's improvement since the international break, highlighting his calmness, ball skills, and ability to score and assist. Leicester City is currently at the top of the Championship table.

Enzo Maresca has highlighted Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as Leicester City's most improved player this season.

The midfielder is attracting interest from the likes of Fulham and Liverpool going into the January transfer window following a positive first half of the campaign.

Dewsbury-Hall has contributed five goals and six assists from 16 league appearances so far this campaign.

The 25-year-old is an academy graduate with the Foxes, and will be aiming to help bring the club back into the Premier League at the first attempt.

The Englishman has grown in importance as the season has gone on, taking on the mantle as one of the team's key players following big-name departures like James Maddison in the summer.

What has Enzo Maresca said about Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall?
Maresca has claimed that Dewsbury-Hall suffered from the weight of responsibility he felt from Leicester's relegation in the previous campaign.

However, he has identified the September international break as a turning point for the midfielder's season.

"He was full of responsibility at first," said Maresca, via Sky Sports.

"But since the first international break he has improved a lot.

"He's calm, fantastic with the ball, he knows when to attack and what to give the team.

"He is so dangerous near the box, and has the quality to score or assist from anywhere.

"He could already have had 10 or 12 assists.

"He is probably the most-improved for us and he's in the perfect position."

Dewsbury-Hall has featured in all 16 of Leicester's league games so far, with 15 of those appearances coming as a start.

He has contributed the most goals and assists in the team, with a total of 11, with the next best being Stephy Mavidid on five.

The 25-year-old will be key to the team's promotion push, which will put pressure on Leicester to reject any potential advances for him in January.

Maresca's side currently lead the way at the top of the Championship table, but back-to-back losses prior to the November international break has seen Ipswich Town go level on points with the Foxes.

The chasing pack outside of the automatic promotion places have also gained ground, with Leeds United only eight points behind, and Southampton one further back in fourth.

Leicester will be looking to get back to winning ways once the Championship action resumes this weekend.

Maresca's side take on Watford at the King Power Stadium on 25 November in a 3pm kick-off.

How important is Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to Leicester City?
Dewsbury-Hall is proving to be one of the most important players to Leicester now, especially in the aftermath of their summer business.

Losing the likes of James Maddison, Harvey Barnes and Youri Tielemans could have been extremely damaging to their hopes of immediately earning promotion back to the top flight.

However, the team has adapted well to their absences, with Dewsbury-Hall effectively stepping up into their role as leaders on the pitch.

It would be a surprise to see Leicester cash in during the January transfer window, perhaps only an offer in excess of £50 million could persuade the Championship side to sell midway through the campaign.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/leicester-city-enzo-maresca-makes-kiernan-dewsbury-hall-claim-amid-liverpool-fulham-transfer-interest/

[WhiteJC]

Rating the Rumour – Timo Werner to Fulham
Can Werner Fill the Mitrovic Void?

Welcome back to Rating the Rumour, which does exactly what it says on the tin. We'll be taking the biggest transfer rumours related to Premier League teams and rating the likelihood of the moves coming to fruition.

The final rating will be decided based on the potential fit of the player into the rumoured buying club, the need for that club to sign a player for the position played, whether the player is of the level required by the club, whether the club could afford the rumoured price and whether or not the player is even likely to be available for transfer.

We will not factor in the reliability of the rumour, as it would likely cause mass amounts of crying from outlets, journalists and "journalists" who would have to be denounced as spoofers.

With the ground rules laid out, let's look at Timo Werner to Fulham which has been mooted by the folks at 90 minute dot com.

Fit
Marco Silva has shown a preference for using a target-man type of number 9, be it Aleksander Mitrovic prior to his departure for Saudi Arabia, or his current options Raul Jiminez and Carlos Vinicius. While different types of players, all three possess a physicality and presence that can be harnessed to fit the requirements of Silva.

Timo Werner does not profile as a typical Silva number 9, but that doesn't mean he couldn't thrive in Fulham's team. Werner is actually more suited to playing with a target man number 9. His best spell at RB Leipzig during his first tenure at the club came playing to the left of Youssef Poulsen.

Werner burst onto the scene at Stuttgart as a left winger and perhaps playing off the left for Fulham could help reignite his career.

Fit Rating – 1/2

Need
Twelve games into the Premier League season, Fulham have only scored 10 goals – one of which was an own goal. No player has scored more than two, and one of the pair who have two is Joao Palhinha the defensive midfielder. That's not ideal. Last season Mitrovic grabbed 14 league goals in just 24 games and in the previous season he had plundered an incredible 43 in 44 to lead Fulham back to the top flight.

Werner can score goals, though he has struggled to find his best form since his ill-fated move to Chelsea. Prior to joining Frank Lampard and co, he had scored 95 in 159 games across all competitions and was a constant menace both in the Bundesliga and in European competition. He's shown he can score goals, and that's exactly what Fulham need.

Need Rating – 2/2

Level
Timo Werner is a very good player who made a very bad career move and has struggled to get his career back on track. There's no question he's good enough to play in the Premier League and perform at a high level. Under a manager like Silva, at a club like Fulham with less pressure and scrutiny than he would have at bigger clubs, it could be the ideal environment for him to get back to his best.

Level Rating – 2/2

Affordability
This is the big question. Fulham should have plenty of cash to spend after breaking even in the summer transfer market. There have been reports that Marco Silva has been promised significant backing over the next couple of windows as a result of his decision to commit his future to the club.

What fee will Leipzig ask for though? At the £20-25mil marker they bought Werner back for, this is a deal Fulham can do comfortably. Above that, it remains to be seen.

Affordability Rating – 1/2

For Sale?
RB Leipzig are always open to selling players for the right price and it has been reported since the summer that Werner's future likely lies elsewhere.

Availability Rating – 2/2

Final Rating
Overall this rumour rates as an 8/10. It makes sense for all three parties and could prove a very clever bit of business for Fulham if it comes to fruition.



https://eplindex.com/99621/rating-the-rumour-timo-werner-to-fulham.html

[WhiteJC]

Thomas Sorensen says £2m Fulham man is in contention for PL Team of the Season so far
Pundit Thomas Sorensen has suggested that Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson is in contention to be in the Premier League Team of the Season so far.

Sorensen was speaking to Fulham legend Mark Schwarzer on the Optus Sport Football Podcast.

It's been an up-and-down season for Fulham so far, with Marco Silva's side struggling in the run-up to the latest international break.

The club now sit 15th in the Premier League following Everton's 10-point deduction.

However, they've only picked up one point in the last four matches, including a heart-breaking last-minute defeat to Manchester United.

There have been positives to take from the season, with Joao Palhinha still looking like a world-class defensive midfielder.

Unsurprisingly, his performances are once again attracting interest from Bayern Munich.

Alex Iwobi and Timothy Castagne already look like very astute signings too.

However, Sorensen has suggested that Antonee Robinson has been his standout player from Fulham this season.

He's named the left-back among the likes of Micky Van de Ven, Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol as one of the best defenders in the league right now.

The £2m signing from Wigan Athletic looks comfortable in the Premier League, but there are aspects of his game that he can still improve.

Not only that, he needs to remain calmer in key areas having already scored two own goals this season.

Sorensen considers Fulham defender Robinson for PL TOTS
Going through the players who could feature in the back line of his Team of the Season so far, Sorensen said: "I actually think Antonee Robinson from Fulham, I think he's been great as well. A little bit under the radar but he could get in."

Robinson has put his performance against Aston Villa behind him during the international break.

After putting the ball past Bernd Leno and then giving the ball away for Ollie Watkins's goal, he's looked much better for the United States.

A fantastic long-range effort against Trinidad & Tobago at home was followed by a diving header against the same opponents last night.

It meant the USA progressed to the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Nations League in March.

Robinson will hope to carry that form back to Fulham and maintain the levels of performance that Sorensen has been impressed by.

His partnership with Willian was essential to the club's success last year and they need to rediscover that against Wolves next Monday.



https://www.fulham.news/2023/11/21/thomas-sorensen-says-2m-fulham-man-is-in-contention-for-pl-team-of-the-season-so-far/

[WhiteJC]

'Feasible' for Fulham to sign winger in January – Marco Silva 'particularly appreciates' him
Fulham are in the picture to sign Lille's Alan Virginius in the winter market, according to a report from France.

The 20-year-old has made 22 appearances since he joined the Ligue 1 side from Sochaux in 2022. Although the winger has only one goal to his name, he has managed to please the London club.

That's according to Foot Mercato, who state that Fulham manager Marco Silva 'particularly appreciates' the player's profile.

The France U20 international has been restricted to 149 minutes of action from six games this season. Despite the limited game time, the website states he's very popular in the Premier League.

Fulham's interest in the young attacker isn't new as they were following him before he joined Lille. It's claimed they could even make an attempt to sign him in the January market.

Foot Mercato add the operation seems 'feasible' for Fulham, also because Virginius should leave the French club in the next window.

He has a deal lasting until 2027 and the report makes no mention of the offer Fulham could table or the fee needed to convince Lille to sanction Virginius' sale.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/feasible-for-fulham-to-sign-player-in-january-marco-silva-particularly-appreciates-him/

[WhiteJC]

Internationals: Godo Given England Start
After making his debut against Italy last week off the bench, Martial Godo was handed his first start for England's Elite League Squad against Germany.

Martial's first involvement on 17 minutes saw him breeze past a German defender before sliding the ball across to Samuel Edozie, whose effort was saved. That fine play from the young winger was the first bit of real quality shown by the young Lions.

England equalised after going behind, but Martial was incredibly unfortunate to have the ball richochet off his shin before looping over England goalkeeper James Beadle to put the hosts back ahead.

The 20-year-old didn't let that bad luck phase him, powering down the right just four minutes later and firing in a cross which indirectly led to England's second leveller.

Martial put on an impressive display and was substituted midway through the second half, before Charlie Webster later scored a stoppage time winner to give England a 3-2 victory.

Antonee Robinson was on the scoresheet again for the USA overnight, getting down low to nod home from a cross and put his side ahead. That's the first time he's scored in back-to-back games in a USA shirt.

Although his side (which also featured Tim Ream) suffered a 2-1 defeat to Trinidad and Tobago, they won the two-leg series 4-2 on aggregate to advance to the 2024 Copa America and Concacaf Nations League Semi-Finals.

Luke Harris played the full 90 minutes for Wales Under-21s last night, but suffered an impactful 2-1 defeat to Denmark, who leap above them and into the top spot.

After going behind, Luke was desperately unlucky to see his excellent header from a corner smash into the crossbar as his side searched for a goal back.

Several of our youngsters have their final Euro Qualfiers of this international break later today.

Adrion Pajaziti - Montenegro U21 v Albania U21 (2pm)

Ollie O'Neill - Rep of Ireland U21 v Italy U21 (5:30pm)

Kristian Šekularac - Switzerland U21 v Romania U21 (5:30pm)

Ibane Bowat & Kieron Bowie - Hungary U21 v Scotland U21 (7pm)



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/november/21/Internationals-Godo-Given-England-Start/

[WhiteJC]

Journo claims Fulham aren't close to signing Liverpool midfield target playing in Brazil
Football journalist Jacque Talbot reveals that Fulham are not close to signing Liverpool target Andre Trindade

Football journalist Jacque Talbot stated that Fulham are somewhat short of the asking price for Liverpool target Andre Trindade. Andre has attracted interest from multiple European clubs after a successful Copa Libertadores campaign with Fluminense.

Liverpool wanted the 22-year-old throughout the summer transfer window but Andre remained loyal to the Brazilian club. Andre is a pivotal part of the Fluminense setup, in the middle of the Copa Libertadores campaign during the summer.

The Reds have deployed Alexis Mac Allister as the deepest midfielder during the current season. The Argentinian has performed well in a position that is not favourable and has Wataru Endo as a backup option. Nevertheless, Liverpool requires a long-term defensive midfielder capable of playing in the single-pivot role.

Fulham plan a move for Liverpool target Andre Trindade. (Photo by CARL DE SOUZA/AFP via Getty Images)

Andre is a natural defensive midfielder capable of holding his own in one-on-one duels despite being 176cm tall. The Brazil international possesses deceptive strength and his height helps him maintain a strong balance while going in for challenges.

The 22-year-old uses his game intelligence, patience and anticipation to regain position with well-timed tackles and interceptions. On the ball, the Brazilian has tremendous ball control and his low centre of gravity helps dribble past the opponents.

Andre has the maturity past his age that helps him act as a good team player who makes himself available. The 22-year-old is a clean passer of the ball, leaving the creativity and risk-taking to the playmakers in the team.

Talbot used social platform X (formerly Twitter) to inform about Fulham's current status in the chase for Andre. The London club's primary defensive midfielder Joao Palhinha is a key target for Bayern Munich. The German giants failed to complete Palhinha's signing during the deadline day as Fulham had no replacement available.

    My understanding is Fulham are not close to a deal for André right now. Fluminense want closer to €40m – not €30m. Can probably expect developments next month, though.
    — Jacque Talbot (@jac_talbot) November 20, 2023

South American football expert Tim Vickery (h/t Liverpool.com) stated that Liverpool might make a move for Andre during January. However, the Liverpool Echo report suggested that the Reds are not looking to strengthen midfield any further.



https://thekoptimes.com/2023/11/21/football-journalist-jacque-talbot-reveals-that-fulham-are-not-close-to-signing-liverpool-target-andre-trindade/

[WhiteJC]

£12m Fulham man told he was substituted too early on international duty this weekend
Pundit Dean Saunders has suggested that Fulham winger Harry Wilson was brought off too early by Wales manager Rob Page against Armenia at the weekend.

Saunders was speaking on TalkSPORT (20/11 6:15am) ahead of a crucial match for the Welsh when it comes to their chances of qualifying for Euro 2024.

There are plenty of Fulham players who will be heading to Germany next summer.

Although the likes of Harrison Reed and Tosin Adarabioyo haven't broken into the England squad yet, they've still got plenty of time.

However, the likes of Joao Palhinha, Marek Rodak, Timothy Castagne and Sasa Lukic will all be on their way to another major tournament next year.

The final evening of qualifiers takes place tonight with a few team's futures still hanging in the balance.

One of those teams is Wales and Harry Wilson will be hoping he can help Rob Page's side secure an unlikely qualification.

Dean Saunders has criticised his manager for bringing him off when Wales needed a goal against Armenia on Saturday.

Instead, they played out a 1-1 draw and qualification is now no longer in their hands.

Saunders disagrees with Wales manager Page over Wilson
Speaking about their disappointing draw in Yerevan, Saunders said: "We had Dan James and Brennan Johnson on the bench who were available which must have been tempting to put on the pitch as they're that quick.

"He decided not to, we go a goal down after five minutes from a great finish but sloppy defending from a corner, didn't clear properly.

"I would have personally and it's easy to say it after the event, but I did say it at the time, I wouldn't have brought Harry Wilson off and I wouldn't have brought David Brooks off because on the pitch at the time we've hardly got anyone who's proven at scoring goals at the highest level.

"We finished the game without a proven goal scorer in any position on the pitch, so I'm not surprised we never scored."

The £12m winger has a fantastic record at international level having made his debut as a teenager.

Page has a big decision to make tonight as to whether to start Wilson for Wales once again.

They need to beat Turkey tonight and hope that Saturday's opponents Armenia do them a favour and beat Croatia to progress, otherwise they'll be heading into the play-offs in March.

Marco Silva will want him to play but return home fully fit ahead of Monday's clash with Wolves.

Fulham need to find a way to start scoring consistent goals and even though they've been linked with strikers ahead of the January window, they can't wait that long to find a solution.

Wilson is capable of finding the back of the net but hasn't done it on a regular basis for Fulham in the Premier League.

For the Whites to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle, someone needs to step up as quickly as possible.



https://www.fulham.news/2023/11/21/12m-fulham-man-told-he-was-substituted-too-early-on-international-duty-this-weekend/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham target could now cost at least €35m – Ready to pay 'high price' as club wait for official bid
Back at the weekend, reports from Brazil sounded very optimistic regarding Fulham's quest to sign André from Fluminense.

A report from journalist Jorge Nicola said the Whites are the 'big favourites' to get the transfer done, as a €30m offer pleased the Rio de Janeiro side.

However, as Goal Brasil now shares its own story on the situation, they don't place Fulham in such advantage to get the signing done.

First of all, they say Fluminense's plan is to make at least €35m with the sale, making it sound like the bid reported by Nicola wouldn't be enough.

Then it's claimed that there's no clear lead from any clubs in this race. Fulham are placed alongside Liverpool as the clubs who made contact, willing to pay a 'high price' on the signing, but it's said there have been no formal offers so far.

It's claimed that Sporting CP are also interested in taking André to Portugal, but they don't seem to have the financial power to compete with Premier League clubs, so England remain being the most likely destination for the player.

This report makes it look like Fulham are not as advanced as Nicola first said, but still, it's clear the Whites have good chances of completing this transfer, just as long as they put enough money on the table.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-target-now-cost-least-e35m-ready-pay-high-price-club-wait-official-bid/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham locked in discussions to sign Andre Trindade
Andre Trindade has been linked with a move away from Fluminense, with Premier League outfit Fulham in talks to sign him.

A report from Daily Mail has claimed that Andre Trindade could be on the move during the January transfer window. And Fulham are hoping to sign him as a potential replacement for Joao Palhinha. Fluminense value the 22-year-old at £30 million, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United also interested in him.

Joao Palhinha could be a target for Bayern Munich during the winter transfer window. So, Fulham are already planning his replacement. Meanwhile, Andre has been linked with clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal as well.

The two Premier League bigwigs have made enquiries for the Brazilian international, and they would have to pay closer to £30 million in order to sign him. The report from Daily Mail adds that Tottenham and Manchester United are keeping tabs on his situation as well.

Andre was linked with a move to the Premier League during the summer transfer window as well. But Fluminense were not keen on losing him midway through the season. He is likely to be sold in the coming months, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. A move to Fulham could be an exciting opportunity for him, and the 22-year-old will look to prove himself at the highest level.

Meanwhile, the opportunity to join clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United will be hard to turn down for the Brazilian international. They are some of the biggest clubs in the world and could provide him with the platform to showcase his abilities at the highest level.

Arsenal will need to replace Thomas Partey if the Ghana international moves on, and Andre has emerged as a replacement option. Similarly, Liverpool need to replace Fabinho, who left the club in the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old Brazilian midfielder would be a quality acquisition for them.

Manchester United defensive midfielder Casemiro has not been at his best this season, and they could use a quality alternative as well. The young midfielder would improve all four English clubs, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. But Fulham seem to be making the first move after opening talks to sign the £30 million-rated midfielder.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/11/21/fulham-locked-in-discussions-to-sign-andre-trindade/

[WhiteJC]

https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/11/21/fulham-locked-in-discussions-to-sign-andre-trindade/
Midfielder André Trinidad had been a Liverpool target in the summer but the Reds appear to have moved on

Fluminense midfielder André Trinidad could be set to arrive in the Premier League in January as many have expected since Liverpool were heavily linked with a move for him last summer, but it appears increasingly clear that he won't be joining Liverpool.

After recent weeks have seen a growing consensus from club-connected journalists that the Reds won't return for him after completing their midfield rebuild last summer, the latest via Talksport has Fulham as the clear frontrunners to sign the 22-year-old.

The obvious speculation would be that he would arrive to replace João Palhinha, whose move to Bayern Munich fell through on deadline day but is believed to still be a top target for the German club. His departure would create a clear need for Fulham to sign a midfielder.

André would represent a significant stylistic shift for Fulham, moving from a pure destroyer with significant shortcomings on the ball to a progressive player who, while defensively capable, has mostly operated as the second player in a double pivot. Fulham currently sit 15th in the Premier League, seemingly comfortably clear of the relegation battle but not in contention for the European places.

Liverpool, meanwhile, look well stocked in midfield with new signings Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai in particular impressing since their arrival. Some believe they still need a defensive specialist to replace the departed Fabinho, but if so André would not appear to be that profile of player.



https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/2023/11/21/23970621/liverpool-fc-transfer-news-fulham-new-favourite-sign-fluminense-midfielder-andre-trinidad

[WhiteJC]

'A question of money' – Fulham tell star he can go in January for 'lower fee', ball in other club's court
Despite the failed transfer from the last summer, it seems João Palhinha may still change Fulham for Bayern Munich in a near future.

Sky Deutschland reporter Florian Plettenberg is the one bringing some news today, claiming this transfer is still pretty much on for all sides involved.

The journalist starts by claiming that Fulham 'signalled' to Palhinha that they would let him leave for Bayern in January for a 'lower fee' than the €60-65m that had been negotiated in the summer.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/question-money-fulham-tell-star-can-go-january-lower-fee-ball-clubs-court/

[WhiteJC]

Forget Andre: Liverpool could hijack transfer and fix No.6 dilemma with £52m PL solution
Liverpool's search for further midfield reinforcements in January could lead them to seek a relatively local solution.

Joao Palhinha, previously linked to Jurgen Klopp's men by the Daily Mail (Mirror), will reportedly be allowed to leave in the winter window.

Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the Portuguese international will be allowed to head to the Bundesliga for 'definitely' less than £52.3m.

At around or under £52m, it's not terribly expensive in modern day terms for one of the Premier League's finest holding midfielders.

Does Palhinha fit the bill?
If Liverpool are keen on an out-and-out destroyer, of a similar mould to a Fabinho, they could do a lot worse than the Fulham star.

The 27-year-old registers ludicrously high in defensive metrics – tackles (99th percentile), interceptions (89th percentile), blocks (83rd percentile) and aerials won (85th percentile) – according to FBref.

However, we'd have some serious concerns over what we'd lose from a progression/possession standpoint.

Though you'd have to imagine Palhinha's numbers are adversely affected by the quality of footballers around him, ranking in the 46% percentile for pass completion is poor (Alexis Mac Allister ranks in the 68th percentile).

By contrast, the likes of our Argentine sensation and Curtis Jones are far more adept at holding on to the ball and progressing it up the pitch.

Whilst the temptation to revert back to a destroyer will prove irresistible to some quarters of the fanbase, we're not so sure that the Cottagers star fits the bill for what our recruitment team is looking for.



https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/21/liverpool-can-hijack-52m-transfer-fix-no-6-dilemma/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham would let Joao Palhinha leave for lower fee
Fulham may have to sell midfielder Joao Palhinha for a lower fee than what they planned previously, according to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg.

Palhinha was in demand in the summer and he was very close to joining Bayern Munich. However, the deal collapsed in the end.

The 28-year-old signed a new long-term deal at Craven Cottage, but Fulham have now signaled that he will let him go in January.

Fulham initially planned to sell him for as high as £56m, but as it stands, they will have to reduce their asking price and offload him for a lower fee.

Plettenberg claims that Palhinha still remains on Bayern's wish list but the deal is far from being done. At the moment, no negotiations have taken place between the two clubs.

    ⚠️ 🆕 Fulham have signaled Joao #Palhinha they would let him go for a lower fee to FC Bayern in January than the planned €60-65m in summer.

    ➡️ Palhinha remains on Bayern's list
    ➡️ But the club will definitely not pay €60m+ for him now.

    Palhinha & Bayern, a question of money... pic.twitter.com/zFijVi7yOO

    — Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) November 21, 2023

Fulham may have found a replacement
It seems like Fulham are preparing to sell him in January, and they are planning life without him.

According to a report from Goal Brasil, the Cottagers are keen to sign Fluminense midfielder Andre, and they are ready to pay a high price for him.

Andre is also a fantastic defensive midfielder who is making big strides in Brazil. The 22-year-old is likely to cost in the region of £30m and Fulham should be able to afford that.

Palhinha has been outstanding for the Cottagers in the last 18 months but he deserves to play for a bigger club. If he leaves, Fulham must do everything to sign Andre.



https://sports-view.co.uk/2023/11/fulham-would-let-joao-palhinha-leave-for-lower-fee

[WhiteJC]

Fulham willing to sell João Palhinha to Bayern Munich for a lower price
As reported by Florian Plettenberg, Fulham would be willing to sell João Palhinha to Bayern Munich this winter for a lower price than the German club previously offered last summer.

Despite the Portuguese international passing a medical for Die Rekordmeister, they were unable to capture the signing of Palhinha during the final hours of the transfer window last summer. As previously reported, Fulham's failure to land a replacement for the 28-year-old scuppered the potential move.

However, fresh reports now suggest that Fulham would be willing to part with the midfielder for a fee lower than the €60m-€65m that was previously offered.

This may be down to the Premier League's side current position in the table and the need to bring in further reinforcements over several positions. Anything around the €50m mark would go a long way in helping strengthen the overall squad at Fulham.

Palhinha remains on Bayern's potential transfer list for this winter, however, the topic around salary and transfer fee is the big question mark surrounding the deal.

Currently, there have been no talks between both parties.



https://www.getfootballnewsgermany.com/2023/fulham-willing-to-sell-joao-palhinha-to-bayern-munich-for-a-lower-price/?expand_article=1

[WhiteJC]

Pundit says Fulham player 'has no place' at national team – Performances haven't been good enough
For years, Fulham striker Raul Jimenez had been the biggest star of the Mexican national team, with his home country's media normally covering all of his steps in Europe.
 
The centre-forward's form hasn't been the same for a while, though, and now we get to see people claiming he shouldn't even be called up by the Tri.

Some comments were now made by Christian Martinoli on TV Azteca. Quoted by Esto, he claims the Fulham player isn't good enough to be playing for Mexico.

"I know he's an admirer and he really likes the way Raúl Jiménez plays. But it seems to me that Raúl Jiménez is no longer available for the national team. I think it would have to be a discussion between two strikers: Chaquito and Henry and you have to respect the hierarchy of playing in Europe," said Martinoli.

"Jiménez has no place in the national team. In the national team no one assists."

Jimenez has 33 goals in 105 appearances for Mexico. Due to injuries, he missed out on international tournaments this year, and slowly lost importance in the team.

The striker left Wolverhampton Wanderers for Fulham last summer in a €6.4m move. Since his arrival at the Craven Cottage, he has one goal in 13 appearances, and that was scored in the last match before the international break, in the 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa.

Jimenez is still treated with great respect in Mexico, and we shall see whether that will be enough to give him more chances to stay in the national team.

Still, it's clear things will have to improve at Fulham first.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/pundit-says-fulham-player-no-place-national-team-performances-havent-good-enough/