Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 12/12/23...

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Toon trio at risk of suspension after Trippier blow – Ones to watch vs Fulham, Luton & Forest
Kieran Trippier will miss Saturday's clash with Fulham after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season and there's now THREE other Mags one booking away from a ban.

In truth, the right-back probably needs a rest after another poor performance in our 4-1 defeat at Spurs, but Joelinton and Jamaal Lascelles are now up to four yellow cards after both were cautioned on Sunday afternoon.

The other player one booking away from a ban is Sean Longstaff. The midfielder had missed our previous four games in all competitions due to an ankle injury before his 26-minute cameo at Spurs.

Premier League rules state that any player who is booked five times before the 20th game of the season (our trip to Liverpool on January 1st) will face a one-match ban, meaning Joelinton, Lascelles and Longstaff will be at risk of suspension in our final three league games of 2023 against Fulham, Luton and Nottigham Forest on Boxing Day.



https://www.nufcblog.co.uk/2023/12/11/nufc-trio-at-risk-of-suspension-after-trippier-blow-one-to-watch-v-fulham-luton-forest/?utm_content=cmp-true

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Regional Leagues: Fulham Women new leaders, Lye Town top again
Fulham are new leaders in the London & South East League, Lye Town again wrestled back the West Midlands leadership from Worcester City.

EASTERN – Bowers breeze through cup test

Premier – Barking climbed three places to fifth with a 6-1 defeat of Kings Lynn Town, who have just one point from 13 games.

1 North – Katie Hayes scored a couple as Newmarket Town won 4-2 against Thetford Town, who had Zoe Klimcke sent off. Wootton Blue Cross hit hosts Stevenage Development for six to leap from eighth to fourth place.

1 South – Billericay Town Development defeated Hertford Town 2-1 with substitute Sophie Hart on target, as they moved level on points with their visitors, Hutton beat Wodson Park by the same score.

League Cup 3rd Rd – Mulbarton Wanderers went through 5-2 at Lawford, Bowers & Pitsea 6-2 at promotion hopefuls Harpenden Town whom they led 5-1 at the break. Stevenage won 2-1 at Haringey Borough and Watford Ladies Development defeated Needham Market 2-0.

EAST MIDLANDS – Lincoln net ten on midweek away game

League Cup 3rd Rd – Ellie Gilliatt got four of Lincoln United's ten at Ilkeston Town in midweek, Sunday's ties to survive the weather saw Basford United progress 6-1 at Loughborough Foxes Vixens and Thrapston Town eliminate SJR Worksop 5-0 helped by an Amelia Boddington treble.

League Plate 2nd Rd – Northampton Town Devs defeated Long Eaton United 2-1 with an Abbie Reboul double, Nottingham Trent University were 5-1 winners at Grimsby Borough, Rotherham United came away from Notts County Devs with a 3-0 victory and Asfordby Amateurs sank Cardea 6-0 as Sarah Brown clinched a hat-trick.

LONDON & SOUTH EAST – Fulham go first

Premier – Fulham's 3-2 win at Ebbsfleet United meant they knocked Dartford off the top of the table but having played three games more. Over 200 fans saw Dulwich Hamlet sank Crawley AFC 6-0, Saltdean United's Caitlin Sullivan got a couple in a 4-2 success at Ashford United.

Hands up if you are top of the league table. 🙋🏻‍♀️ #FFCW pic.twitter.com/OhzpHOjO5H

— Fulham FC Women (@FulhamFCWomen) December 10, 2023

1 North – Sport London E Benfica replaced Dulwich Hamlet Reserves in pole position on goal-difference, after a 3-2 win at Denham United. Whyteleafe won 4-2 at third-placed Actonians Reserves, Hackney got all the three goals in the first 25 minutes at Ashmount Leigh, while Clapton's 7-1 score against Richmond Park featured a Maria Mendonca hat-trick.

1 South – Newhaven beat Bromley 3-1 aided by a couple from Lucy Collinson to stay 11 points clear at the top of Dartford Reserves, who won 2-1 at Montpelier Villa. Herne Bay stepped up to third place with a 2-1 victory over Hastings United.

NORTH EAST – West End extend lead

Premier – Sunderland West End went four points ahead of the rest with a 3-1 result over Hull United, Spennymoor Town are third after seeing off Redcar Town by the same score, Barnsley FC fourth following a 4-1 win at Bradford City. Wakefield AFC won 6-0 against Hartlepool United, Alnwick Town 7-1 over Harrogate Town.

1 North – Wallsend BC Reserves' 5-1 victory at Hartlepool Pools Youth put them level on points with leaders Sunderland U-23, albeit from two games more. Ponteland United rose to third with a 5-1 defeat of Norton & Stockton Ancients Reserves, Gateshead beat Consett 5-2 to leapfrog them into fourth spot on goal-difference.

1 South – Handsworth edged into seventh place with a fine 4-0 result over leaders York City Devs, Chesterfield FC went above Ossett United into fourth when beating them 3-1 away with Lexie Butterworth bagging a brace.

NORTH WEST – Tranmere right on Cheadle's heels

Premier – Tranmere Rovers put five past West Didsbury & Chorlton but it was not quite enough to edge Cheadle Town off the top on goal-difference, Stingers now having two games in hand. Crewe Alexandra took the points 2-1 at Salford City.

1 North – Mancunian Unity opened up a three-point advantage with as many goals against 3-0 Accrington Stanley who slipped to third on goals scored,  Fleetwood Town Wrens are level on points with Workington Reds after a 2-1 away win over them.

1 South – Olivia Ellinson scored twice as Mossley Hill Athletic held second-placed Warrington Wolves to a 2-2 draw and moved into the top half, Runcorn Linnets are now second having put five past Litherland REMYCA, with a hat trick from Mollie Bennett and Lile Ashley taking her tally to three in three games  since her return from 14 months out injured.

SOUTHERN – Long Crendon edge into promotion place

Premier – Oxford City leapfrogged Woodley United into third place, after defeating them 3-0 with Ellie White at the double.

1 North – Long Crendon took the leadership from Kidlington on goal-difference, winning 8-0 at Caversham United with six of their goals coming after the break.

1 South – Bournemouth Sports Reserves missed a chance to go level on points with leaders Abbey Rangers, when held to a goalless draw at Woking.

League Cup 1st Rd – AFC Stoneham eliminated Chesham United Devs 5-2, Wycombe Wanderers won 6-0 at Milton United with three apiece for Molly Carter and Katie Riddington.

SOUTH WEST – One point separates top four

Premier – Forest Green Rovers substitute Eleanor-Marie Briscoe scored in a 1-1 draw with Marine Academy Plymouth, as both sides failed to take the opportunity to go top. The result leaves just one point between the top four, with Bristol Rovers and Sherborne Town in first and second respectively.

1 East – Ridgeway's first points came at their eleventh attempt, as Kelly Gardner got the only goal at Frome Town. Purton picked up three points with a 3-2 result at Weymouth.

1 North – Weston super Mare went seven points ahead at the top with a 3-1 win over Paulton Rovers, SGS Olveston United defeated Downend Flyers with an Ella Graham decider, Bristol Rovers Devs match with St Vallier was abandoned.

1 West – Helston Athletic jumped three places to second when overcoming Bideford 10-2, Eve Moore and Beth Prouse both recording trebles.

WEST MIDLANDS – Lye swop places with Worcester in title race

Premier – Lye Town regained the leadership from Worcester City with a 3-0 win over Shifnal Town, Burton Albion rose to third despite being held 1-1 at home by Lichfield City.

1 North –  Third-placed Walsall FC drew 1-1 at home to top-of-the-table Newcastle Town.

1 South – Long Itchington's 6-2 success at Worcester City Development stretched their lead to four points, Sedgley & Gornal United secured their first points 3-2 against Bewdley Town with an Ashlea Follows brace, Rugby Town drew 2-2 with Droitwich Spa.



https://shekicks.net/regional-leagues-fulham-women-new-leaders-lye-town-top-again/

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Fulham line up Palhinha successor with Feyenoord star Quinten Timber now on Marco Silva radar
Quinten Timber is emerging as a transfer target for Fulham as we head into the new year, TEAMtalk can exclusively reveal.

The Cottagers are set to make scouting checks on Feyenoord this week as the Dutch club head to Scotland to take on Celtic in the Champions League.

A handful of Premier League clubs are expected at the Celtic-Feyenoord game, with highly rated front man Santiago Gimenez the centre of attention as clubs including Tottenham and West Ham also have him on the radar.

Sources are indicating to us though that Fulham are also planning to have a presence at Celtic Park on Wednesday night, and while some focus of that trip will be to watch striker Gimenez, it is understood they also have a midfielder on the watchlist.

Timber is also going to be tracked as the 22-year-old is a combative central midfielder with high energy that could make him a good fit for the side.

Fulham are continuing to monitor potential targets so that the centre of the field does not become a weak point in their squad.

Fulham eyeing midfield reinforcements amid Palhinha uncertainty
The future of Palhinha, who came close to a move to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich last summer, will once again be a talking point in January.

While contacts close to the club expect the 28-year-old Portugal international to stay until the summer, eyes are already turning to how the team might look over the next two years.

It is with that in mind that Fluminense midfielder Andre has emerged as a top target for Fulham – and there is strong hope over a transfer being completed this January.

The aim of such a deal would be to get him on board and slowly integrate him into the side in the hope that he can make a full impact next season.

The only slight fear around Andre right now is that good showings in the Club World Cup this month could yet lead to a hijack from a bigger club.

Liverpool are among the clubs linked with a move for the 22-year-old, with former Reds midfielder Lucas Leiva recently urging Jurgen Klopp to make a move for Andre, whose contract is believed to contain an exit clause of £30million.



https://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/fulham-palhinha-successor-feyenoord-quinten-timber-exclusive

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Player ratings: Fulham 5-0 West Ham United

George Rossiter is back with the player ratings.

West Ham's fans must have known a horrible day was on the horizon when a boat carrying a group of their fans along the River Thames collided with Hammersmith Bridge. But not many fans in the entire ground would have believed Fulham were about to make it consecutive 5-0 wins in the Premier League. 16 goals in four games, including three big wins, have moved the Whites back into the top half of the league.

Bernd Leno

Unlike the Nottingham Forest fixture, there were things to do in this game for Leno. An early, powerful free-kick from the set-piece specialist James Ward-Prowse was palmed safely out of danger. Two Jarrod Bowen efforts inside the penalty area, either side of half time, were stopped and held well by the German, with a decent save from Benrahma at 4-0 too. Another clean sheet to add to the collection. 7/10.

Timothy Castagne

Again proved why he is such a useful option when any of our full-backs are out injured or need a rest. The ability to tirelessly get up and down the wing without looking like breaking a sweat is really quite impressive. Defensively assured of himself against any opposition and dangerous in attacking areas, Castagne has proved to be a brilliant signing. 7/10.

Tosin

Hard to find too many negatives considering the two clean sheets alongside Bassey since his return to the side. Continues to look a tad rusty on the ball since his comeback, that range of passing will surely return in time. Most importantly, though, he brings such an authoritative presence to the backline, and his towering header for the third goal was a huge added bonus. 7/10.

Calvin Bassey

Weeks ago, Bassey must've been wondering where his chances lay of becoming a first team regular. Now, after impressing on his weaker side, and with a potential injury sustained to Tim Ream, he has almost become first choice centre back. This was another faultless performance, with complete composure on the ball and dominance against the West Ham attack. 7.5/10.

Antonee Robinson

I mentioned in the week how the anonymity of Hudson-Odoi's performance out wide was a sign of how good Robinson was defensively. The same can be said here, the only two times Bowen ever found any success was by almost making himself a number 9 to stray away from Robinson. The American's crossing was on point too, with one to Alex Iwobi resulting in the corner that produced Tosin's goal. 7/10.

Joao Palhinha

Most tackles, most duels won and most interceptions of anyone on the pitch, just another day at the office for the best defensive midfielder in the world. Bar the finish, the first goal was all about Palhinha. Two huge challenges that he won kept the ball in West Ham's half, before he eventually kept the ball in play, whipped in a viciously perfect cross and Raul headed home. Please stay away next month Bayern Munich. 8/10.

Tom Cairney

So many brilliant individual Fulham performances to speak of in this game, and yet Tom Cairney was so obviously the best player on the park. In Cairney's 300th appearance for the club, Fulham dominated, with absolutely everything going through the skipper, who dictated the tempo throughout. The pass out to Harry Wilson for the fourth goal was just one example of any array of beautiful passes TC played on the day. Ageing like a fine wine in the Premier League. 9/10 – Man of the match.

Andreas Pereira

When someone is slowly coming back into form, you notice the smaller things in their game that you know they were capable of, but simply haven't been doing enough of. For example, Pereira hasn't been showing the energy and intent to get into dangerous areas of late, but he found himself in the perfect position to retrieve a deep cross and set up Willian himself for the second goal. The third goal also came courtesy of one of his set piece deliveries. 7.5/10.

Alex Iwobi

The confidence that has come from scoring a few goals of late is noticeable in the game of Alex Iwobi. The Nigerian showed much more of a willingness to take shots from all sorts of areas in this game, and we can ignore his *dummy* that led to the second goal. Was unlucky not to score from a controlled volley late in the second half, but the resulting corner led to a goal regardless. Also noticeable how influential his pressing game is, Cresswell really struggled with the pressure put upon him by Iwobi in the first half. 7/10.

Willian

Caused Coufal a lot of issues in the first half, mostly through his linkup play with Jimenez and Cairney, the former putting on a beautiful pass for the Brazilian to volley straight at Fabianski early on. His goal did come, as he swept home Andreas' cross to make it 2-0. A shame that he had to come off injured at half time, hopefully that's nothing too serious. 6.5/10.

Raul Jimenez

The header scored by Raul to open the scoring was one he simply not have put away a few weeks ago, The conviction and precision it was scored with was magnificent, as the Mexican continues to stamp his mark on this side. The previously mentioned chipped pass to Willian in the opening stages was delightful, and another example of his growing confidence in influencing our attacking build up play. Nothing but positives to report here. 8/10.

Substitutes

Harry Wilson

Subbed on at half time for Willian

Probably should have scored just ten minutes after coming on, with a weak finish from close range wasting a beautiful turn on Zouma, which had made the crowd purr. He made up for it though, with a gorgeously struck finish that hit the top corner from all of 25 yards. Got an assist too, when he could have so easily looked to score a second, impressive. 7.5/10.

Carlos Vinicius

Subbed on after 72 minutes for Raul Jimenez

Scored an absolute screamer, nothing else to say on his goal, it was a belter...sort of. Also, fantastic scenes that he didn't attempt to fight any West Ham players, that's a huge improvement on recent cameos. Well done Vini. 6.5/10.

Fode Ballo-Toure

Subbed on after 72 minutes for Antonee Robinson

I think the biggest compliment I can pay here is that, when Ballo-Toure comes onto the pitch, we don't suddenly have a drop off in the left-back position, which is always a good sign. Another solid enough cameo here. 6/10.

Harrison Reed and Bobby De Cordova-Reid (Subbed on after 81 minutes for Joao Palhinha and Alex Iwobi) subbed on too late to be fairly judged, but it would be rude not to mention that gorgeous pass by Reedy to set Wilson through for the fifth, just sublime.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-12-11-player-ratings-fulham-5-0-west-ham-united/

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Rotherham Tickets

Tickets for Fulham's FA Cup Third Round tie against Rotherham go on sale from 10am on Wednesday 13th December.

Join us for our first fixture of 2024 as we welcome Championship side Rotherham United to Craven Cottage for Cup action on Friday 5th January, kick-off 7:30pm.

Kids* can enjoy the magic of the Cup for just £1 for this fixture, with Adult tickets priced from £25. Bring family and friends along to SW6 as supporters can secure up to six tickets for this tie.

Tickets will go on sale to Season Ticket Holders at 10am on Wednesday 13th December, then to Members at 10am on Friday 15th December, before going on General Sale at 10am on Monday 18th December.

Due to an increased away allocation, the entire Putney End will be allocated to Rotherham supporters. There will therefore be no home ticket sales in the Putney End. The Riverside Upper Tier will be closed for this fixture.

Tickets can be purchased from Thursday online at tickets.fulhamfc.com and from the Fulham FC Ticket Office in person or by phone on 0203 871 0810 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).

More information regarding on sale dates and pricing for this fixture can be found here.

BUY TICKETS FROM 10AM ON WEDNESDAY

Supporters should be aware that season cards are not valid for this fixture.

*Aged 17 & Under



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/december/11/rotherham-tickets/

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Bayern Munich watch over Joao Palhinha during Fulham's thrashing of West Ham

    Bayern Munich present at Fulham 5-0 West Ham on Sunday to keep eye on Joao Palhinha
    Midfielder saw summer move to Allianz Arena break down on deadline day
    German champions remain interested but have other priorities for January window too

Bayern Munich representatives were at Craven Cottage to check in on Joao Palhinha during Fulham's 5-0 thrashing of West Ham United on Sunday, sources have confirmed to 90min.

Palhinha was close to securing a move to Bayern on the final day of the summer 2023 transfer window, travelling to Munich to complete a medical and sign a contract.

However, in part due to Fulham's inability to to secure a suitable replacement for the midfielder, the deal fell through and he returned to west London.

90min understands that Bayern are continuing to monitor Palhinha and were represented at Fulham's most recent win, during which the Portugal international grabbed an assist for Raul Jimenez. Though Palhinha signed a new five-year contract with the Whites in September, he is still open to leaving during the upcoming January transfer window.

Though Bayern remain fans of Palhinha, they also want to sign a new defender in January - 90min reported earlier on Monday they are keen on Barcelona's Ronald Araujo. Signing both Palhinha for a fee in the region of £60m and a new centre-back will prove difficult this winter.

Palhinha's representatives have also informed Premier League sides that he could be available, with Arsenal and Liverpool among those interested.

Sources have told 90min that while Palhinha was bitterly disappointed a summer switch to Bayern fell through, he has remained a consummate professional and has not kicked up a fuss, which was best demonstrated by his willingness to sign a new contract so soon after the window closed.

While Palhinha's Fulham scored five at the weekend, Bayern were hammered 5-1 away at Eintracht Frankfurt, highlighting their need for defensive reinforcements.



https://www.90min.com/posts/bayern-munich-watch-over-joao-palhinha-fulham-thrashing-west-ham

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Man of the Match Result: West Ham

Tom Cairney has been voted Man of the Match from Fulham's 5-0 win over West Ham United.

It's a fitting nod for a player who brought up 300 appearances for the Club on Sunday – joining an elite list of names to have reached that landmark.

Trademark TC was on display at the Cottage, with his quick feet and intelligent vision causing a languid Hammers midfield no end of issues.

Our Captain is arguably playing the best Premier League football of his career right now, with his assist for Harry Wilson's stunner his fourth goal involvement in as many matches – 1G, 3A.

Against West Ham, Cairney's 119 touches of the ball included 110 passes, 104 of which found their man.

The result of MOTM was never in doubt, with half (50.3%) of the fanbase throwing their support behind TC. Another impressive showing from Raúl Jiménez saw him take second with 15.6%, with João Palhinha coming in third (7%).

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/december/11/man-of-the-match-result-west-ham/

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Fulham want €8m to sell player in January – Currently 'unfeasible' for club, 'trying to reduce request'
Even though Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz remains being a big target for Brazilian clubs, there's clearly some difficulty to take him away from Craven Cottage.

Goal Brasil today features a story claiming that Atletico Mineiro remain interested in the player, but see that pursuit as a tough mission for now.

As Fulham's request for the sale is said to be of €8m, the amount is seen as 'unfeasible' by the Galo.

Atletico Mineiro are said to be trying to convince the Whites to 'reduce their request', and only then advance in the talks.

Muniz only has eight appearances for Fulham this season, with one goal scored, and is clearly not among Marco Silva's first choices for the attack.

That's the reason why a few Brazilian clubs got interested in his signing lately, but none of them have shown to be strong enough to match the Whites' request.

So it seems it's down to Fulham whether to reduce the demands and let the player go next month, or leave that particular business until the end of the season.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-want-e8m-sell-player-january-currently-unfeasible-club-trying-reduce-request/

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Fulham intensifying efforts to sign Arouna Sangante

Fulham are reportedly interested in signing Senegalese defender Arouna Sangante from Ligue 1 club Le Havre.
A report from The Sun has claimed that Fulham are stepping up their efforts to sign Le Havre defender Arouna Sangante. The Senegalese defender is also a target for other Premier League clubs.

Fulham and the Links With Arouna Sangante
Fulham have been quite vulnerable defensively this season. So, it is no surprise that they are looking to bring in a quality defender in January. The 21-year-old is highly rated in France, and he could prove to be a quality acquisition.

Fulham have conceded 26 goals in 16 league matches, and they will have to tighten up at the back if they want to secure a top-half finish. The West London club will have to sign a quality defender, and Sangante would certainly help them improve defensively.

The opportunity to play in the Premier League will be an attractive option for the 21-year-old, and it would be a major step up in his career. He will look to prove himself at the highest level, and the chance to showcase his qualities regularly in the Premier League can be hard to turn down.

The Cottagers certainly have the financial muscle to sign the player, especially with the Ligue 1 club valuing him at £15 million. The Senegalese defender is still only 21, and he is capable of improving further. He could justify the £15 million outlay in the long run.

If he manages to fulfil his potential in the Premier League, the transfer could look like a major bargain. The 21-year-old is versatile enough to operate as the right-sided full-back as well. Marco Silva will certainly benefit from having a versatile centre-half like him, and the youngster has the physical and technical attributes to thrive in the Premier League as well.

The report adds that Fulham are looking to improve their attacking options as well, and they have identified Chelsea striker Armando Broja as a potential target. It will be interesting to see if they can bring in the necessary signings during the January transfer window and finish the second half of the season strongly.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/12/11/fulham-intensifying-efforts-to-sign-arouna-sangante/

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Fulham: Raul Jimenez fills Aleksandar Mitrovic void as cheap transfer gamble pays off
After a slow start to his Craven Cottage career, resurgent summer signing is showing signs of the prolific frontman of old

West Ham's heaviest defeat under David Moyes; Fulham's biggest victory since Wednesday.

While his counterpart was left to pick the bones out of his most miserable afternoon of the season so far, Marco Silva explained why this was his favourite of the two 5-0 victories his side had churned out in the space of five days.

"This afternoon was against a team that just came from a win in a derby away from home against Tottenham," the Fulham boss said. "A team that are doing so well in the Europa League, that has the capacity to buy players for £50million, and not just one.

"No doubts about it, this afternoon was a more complete performance."

The catalyst for it was Raul Jimenez, whose superb header midway through the first half opened up what had been an even contest until then. It was the kind of finish that was the trademark of a prolific stint at Wolves before the head injury three years ago that threatened to put his career on the rocks.

Since the strike against Aston Villa last month that ended a 33-game drought in the Premier League, it is now four goals in five matches for the Mexican, and Fulham's cheap summer gamble in the belief the player of old still lies within looks like paying off.

"He has got his confidence back," Silva said. "The first four or five games of the season, he was giving much more for the team than we were giving for him in terms of providing chances."

Jimenez's upturn has coincided with a collective skyrocketing in terms of goals, Silva's men having scored 16 times in four matches since the international break, compared with just 10 in their first 12 of the campaign.

In the immediate aftermath of Aleksandr Mitrovic's summer departure to the Saudi Pro League, the Serbian's absence could hardly have been more keenly felt, but with his team suddenly free-scoring, Silva believes Fulham can at last move on from their talisman.

"Mitrovic was a top player for this football club," the Portuguese said. "I love him and I will keep a relationship with him for all my life. But now is the moment to stop talking about him, because he is not here any more.

"Not just myself, but the players, everybody at this football club, the fans as well, they have to support the players that are here. They have to keep the faith in the players that are here, because they are fighting for this shirt."

Here, to a man, they were outstanding, a fluid cast rotating around Jimenez, unleashed by the security of Joao Palhinha on patrol at the base of midfield.

"He has got his confidence back"
Marco Silva on Raul Jimenez

Willian doubled the lead before Tosin Adarabioyo powered in from a corner, with Harry Wilson's stunner and Carlos Vinicius's late tap-in making it five unique scorers on the day.

In all, nine different players have bagged in Fulham's last three Premier League games alone, a boon for Silva, for all he insists the idea that his team were ever over-reliant on Mitrovic is a myth.

"In the Championship we scored 106 and he scored 43, so the others scored more than 50, we spread with other players," he said. "Last season, he scored 14, we scored I don't know how many.

"Of course, we have a top goalscorer like every team. If you look at the teams in the Premier League, the top scorer is the main striker, it's a normal situation."

With Jimenez beginning to fire, Fulham can once again count themselves part of that club.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-raul-jimenez-west-ham-mitrovic-b1126204.html

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Joao Palhinha's agents contact Arsenal over January transfer
Arsenal have had contact over a potential move for Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha despite claims that he could be too expensive.

Arsenal may well be in the market for another midfielder in the January transfer window.

Thomas Partey just can't be relied upon due to his injury problems and Jorginho is out of contract in the summer.

Edu and Mikel Arteta may start looking for potential reinforcements and Fulham's Joao Palhinha is one name being mentioned.

Joao Palhinha representatives in contact with Arsenal
If it's a defensive midfielder Arsenal want, then there are few better options in the Premier League than Joao Palhinha.

The Fulham midfielder is a defensive powerhouse in front of Fulham's back line and has dazzled in the Premier League.

TEAMtalk now claim that Palhinha's representatives have been in contact with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United.

Fulham want £60million for Palhinha in January and the midfielder's entourage are seemingly discussing potential moves.

Palhinha's team are no doubt aware that Arsenal are in the market for another midfielder and are now discussing the Portuguese star with them.

Whether Arsenal actually make a move to sign Palhinha is unclear – especially given that price tag.

The Mirror reported last week that Arsenal do appreciate Palhinha but he is expected to be out of Arsenal's price range.

Arsenal splashed big money on Declan Rice and Kai Havertz over the summer and may not want to commit to a £60million signing in January.

Palhinha – hailed as 'absolutely phenomenal' by pundit Danny Murphy – is a top holding midfield player and could make an instant impact having already thrived in the Premier League.

Adding Palhinha may free up Rice to play further up the pitch and give Arteta more tactical flexibility.

Liverpool and Manchester United could be stern competition and it's now over to Arsenal to decide whether they want to invest £60million in the former Sporting star.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/12/11/joao-palhinhas-agents-contact-arsenal-over-january-transfer/

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Club sent scouts to watch £20m midfield in person this weekend, after talks with Liverpool
The race for Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha seems to be hotting up and it looks like Bayern Munich are still very much in the conversation.

Bayern very nearly signed Palhinha in the summer and the midfielder was even in Germany to complete the deal before flying back to England a touch unhappy.

However, Palhinha has got his head down and continues to shine for Fulham. A number of clubs are now thought to be keen on signing him in January, with Liverpool apparently holding talks with his agents already.

But according to 90Min, any hopes Liverpool have of getting Palhinha will rely on Bayern backing away.

But that doesn't look like it's happening anytime soon, with 90Min claiming the German side had scouts in attendance this weekend to see Fulham hammer West Ham. Of course, Palhinha was superb in the display.

Fulham paid just £20m to sign Palhinha and are expected to more than double their money if and when they do decide to sell.

Liverpool can complete midfield with Palhinha signing
All of Liverpool's summer additions in the middle of the park have slotted in well and they're definitely pushing the Reds to new levels.

However, there is the constant doubt that they don't quite have the very best number six they could get.

This is where Palhinha comes in for the Reds.

Palhinha has been superb for Fulham and his performance this weekend was another one where he showed his class.

Worryingly for Liverpool and other English clubs keen, Bayern's entourage will very much have liked what they saw from Palhinha.

Ultimately, this one might come down to money in January and who puts up the biggest fee.

If Liverpool are still top of the table, then there might well be reason for FSG to dig deep and ensure the team gets over the line.

Palhinha, then, might just be the one who gets the Reds to their second Premier League title.



https://tbrfootball.com/club-sent-scouts-to-watch-18m-midfield-in-person-this-weekend-after-talks-with-liverpool/

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Boat carrying West Ham fans gets wedged under London's Hammersmith Bridge
A boatload of West Ham fans was momentarily stuck underneath a bridge on the River Thames as the vessel travelled to a football game.


The boat carrying West Ham fans became stuck beneath the Hammersmith Bridge on Sunday (Mortlake Brewery/PA)

A boat carrying West Ham football fans became stuck underneath a suspension bridge on the River Thames as it travelled to a football match on Sunday.

The vessel, MV Emerald of London, was due to take the West Ham supporters to a Premier League match against Fulham at the Craven Cottage stadium but it was forced to turn round after becoming wedged beneath Hammersmith Bridge in west London.

The moment was captured by several people, with many taking to social media to share the footage online.

In one clip posted by Mortlake Brewery to X, formerly Twitter, the boat could be seen approaching the bridge which crosses over the Thames before a loud crash could be heard as it collided with the structure.

The football fans on board could then be heard shouting and jeering as the small vessel began to turn from where it had become stuck underneath the bridge.

More scratching and creaking sounds followed, before the boat managed to pivot 180 degrees and came free from the bridge.

Singing and chanting could then be heard from the football fans as the vessel set off in the direction it had come.

Mortlake Brewery captioned the post: "When the West Ham boat party meets Hammersmith Bridge.

"I hope everyone is OK."

No injuries were reported and the MV Emerald of London only suffered minor damage as a result of the collision.



https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/west-ham-london-river-thames-hammersmith-bridge-premier-league-b1126278.html

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Fulham's "electric" wizard also attracting interest alongside Joao Palhinha
The club are facing a battle to hold onto several of their prized assets.

Fulham could be set to lose one of their first-team stars, with a fresh report revealing that another key man is being watched ahead of next summer alongside Joao Palhinha.

Palhinha linked with Man Utd, Arsenal and Liverpool
During the previous transfer window, Palhinha came very close to completing a move to Bayern Munich on deadline day, and while a deal ended up collapsing at the last minute, they remain interested in securing his services. However, Thomas Tuchel's side won't be alone in their pursuit with Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United from the Premier League also keen to strike a deal and keep him in England, and he's not the only player who could be heading for the exit door.

Marco Silva's left-winger Willian will have reached the expiration of his deal at the end of the season (Fulham contracts), and should the club decide not to trigger his option to stay for a further year, they will have to cash in come January.

The Brazilian was attracting significant interest from Saudi Arabia before he joined last summer, but having impressed during his performances in the top-flight, the 35-year-old is expected to be targeted once more, and this time, not only by his former admirers.

Willian wanted in Saudi Pro League and MLS
According to The Daily Mail, Willian is of interest to numerous potential suitors who are considering making a move for him upon the conclusion of the current campaign.

"He will have offers from Saudi, once more. But it is understood a number of MLS outfits are also monitoring his situation ahead of next season. But if Willian does leave the Premier League, he will do so for a club who can compete for trophies."

Fulham need to keep "electric" Willian
Since joining Fulham, Willian has 16 contributions, nine goals and seven assists, to his name in 46 appearances, showing how prolific he can still be in the final third, and he's constantly able to pose a threat even if the end product isn't always there (Transfermarkt - Willian statistics).

Sponsored by Puma, Ribeirao Pires' native has recorded 51 shot-creating actions so far this season which is more than any of his fellow teammates, highlighting what a standout performer he can be in the attacking areas compared to his peers (FBRef - Fulham statistics).

Silva's wing wizard is even a versatile operator having been deployed in seven different positions over the pitch since the start of his career, including everywhere across the frontline and three roles in the midfield, making him a useful option to have in the building should any unexpected injuries occur.

As hailed by Simon Collings, Willian still has "electric" pace and always looks like a live wire despite now being an experienced figure, so trying to retain his services at the end of the season should be a no-brainer of a decision to make.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulhams-electric-wizard-attracting-interest-alongside-joao-palhinha/

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Man Utd in talks to sign "fantastic" £60m play breaker – Report
Manchester United have serious concerns at the back, they need to reinforce the defense and must also sign a top play breaker in the midfield.

If reports in the media are anything to go by then Man Utd are in talks to sign Joao Palhinha, who has been brilliant for Fulham in the Premier League.

According to TEAMtalk, the Red Devils have held discussions with the representative of the player, who is also on the radar of Arsenal and Liverpool.

The 28-year-old defensive midfielder was close to joining Bayern Munich in the summer for £60m and the price tag has not changed.

Former Premier League player and current pundit, Robbie Savage, is a huge fan of Palhinha and speaking on BBC Radio 5, he stated:

"He's a very good player. He (Palhinha) was going to Bayern and the move fell through. Fantastic player."

Last year, the Red Devils broke the bank to sign Casemiro from Real Madrid and the Brazil captain helped us earn a place in the Champions League.
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However, the veteran South American is past his prime and this season, he has spent majority of the time on the treatment table.

This year, Man Utd completed the loan signing of Sofyan Amrabat, who was arguably the best holding midfielder at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Unfortunately, even the Moroccan play breaker has not been able to help United, who have consistently leaked goals in the current campaign.

In such a scenario, should Man Utd pay £60m to sign Joao Palhinha?



https://www.thefaithfulmufc.com/man-utd-in-talks-to-sign-fantastic-60m-play-breaker-palhinha/

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Bayern Munich watched João Palhinha in action for Fulham
Time to talk the talk?

Right, so you have probably heard this before: João Palhinha being linked to Bayern Munich, and all you've heard from the club is that they want to sign him, but it probably won't be this winter. Well, the Bavarians decided to do something different and sent their people to watch the Portuguese midfielder in action as Fulham FC whacked West Ham United 5-0 in the Premier League (via 90min.com).

The 28-year-old was involved in the goals as he assisted Raul Jimenez for the opening goal of the match. Service to the striker is what Harry Kane lacks or gets very little of at Bayern so a defensive midfielder that can assist the attackers would be a huge addition. Despite the Rekordmeister firmly on Palhinha's heels (Pal-heel-nha), clubs like Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC are said to be in the mix.

Bayern are currently leaning towards signing a defender in the winter because of the squad members going to AFCON and the Asian Cup.



https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2023/12/11/23996601/bayern-munich-watched-joao-palhinha-fulham-west-ham-premier-league-harry-kane-arsenal-liverpool-raul