Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 19/12/23...

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"I thank God for my Dad" – Alex Iwobi reveals his Father's advice keeps him financially prudent
Alex Iwobi moved to the Craven Cottage from Merseyside on the deadline day of last summer's transfer window, ending a five year spell at Everton.

Super Eagles and Fulham attacking midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has revealed that the advise his Father gave him as a young player has kept him financially prudent, Soccernet.ng reports.

Iwobi, 27, grew into maturity as a footballer from Arsenal's famous Hale End academy, making his debut as a 19-year-old teenager in 2015.

He went on to make a hundred and fourty-nine appearances for the club, winning the FA Cup in 2017, and scoring in the club's bitter UEFA Europa League final loss to Chelsea in Baku.

In the summer of 2019, he joined Everton from Arsenal for huge fee of £35m, and made over a century of appearances in the English Premier League for the Merseysiders.

After four years, he moved on to Fulham, and appears to be enjoying life under Marco Silva, as he has been involved in three goals in his last three games.

Speaking on the Hoil Boys podcast, Iwobi shared some of his off pitch experiences, claiming his dad taught him how to be prudent.

"When I was sixteen, I went out with my friends to get food, and it cost about fourty pounds. I offered to pay and the card got declined, as it turned out I had run my account empty. As soon as I got my first professional contract, my dad told me to invest, and it has helped me a lot. I thank God for my Dad," the Super Eagles midfielder shared on the podcast.

Now at the peak of his powers, Iwobi looks to secure a top-half finish on the League table for Fulham at the end of the season.



https://soccernet.ng/2023/12/i-thank-god-for-my-dad-alex-iwobi-reveals-his-fathers-advice-keeps-him-financially-prudent.html

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Everton vs Fulham: Preview and Prediction

Everton will host Fulham at Goodison Park in the EFL Cup on Tuesday evening, with a place in the semi-finals on the line.
Everton will look to book their place in the semi-finals of the EFL Cup, and they will certainly be the favourites to progress from their quarter-final against Fulham at Goodison Park on Tuesday night. The home team have picked up five wins and a defeat from their last six outings.

On the other hand, Fulham are coming into this game on the back of three defeats from their last six matches across all competitions. The Cottagers suffered a disastrous 3-0 loss to Newcastle United this past weekend, with Raul Jimenez seeing red.

Fulham have done quite well against Everton in recent seasons, and the Toffees will have to be careful against the West London club. The Hard Tackle takes a closer look at the encounter ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides.

Team News & Tactics
Everton
The home side will be without the services of Dele Alli because of a groin injury. Vitaliy Mykolenko is ruled out with a similar problem. Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young are unavailable with undisclosed injuries. Meanwhile, Andre Gomes remains a long-term injury absentee. Meanwhile, Abdoulaye Doucoure has picked up a thigh injury.

Everton will shape up in their usual 4-4-1-1 formation, with Jordan Pickford in goal. Nathan Patterson and Jarrad Branthwaite are likely to be deployed as the full-backs. They will look to keep things compact at the back and help out in the attack. James Tarkowski will start alongside Michael Keane at the heart of the defence.

Dwight McNeil and Jack Harrison will be deployed as the wingers, and they will look to add creativity and goals from the wide areas. Amadou Onana should start alongside James Garner in the midfield. The two players will look to add defensive cover and drive to the Everton midfield.

Arnaut Danjuma is likely to be deployed in the hole behind the striker in Doucoure's absence with Beto leading the line for Everton against Fulham. So, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Youssef Chermiti will be backup attackers on the bench.

Probable Lineup (4-4-1-1): Pickford; Patterson, Tarkowski, Keane, Branthwaite; Harrison, Onana, Garner, McNeil; Danjuma; Beto

Fulham
The visitors will be without Adama Traore who has a thigh injury. Tim Ream misses out with a calf injury, while Raul Jimenez is suspended after seeing red this past weekend in the Premier League. Calvin Bassey has an illness, and he is unlikely to be involved either.

Fulham will shape up in their usual 4-3-3 formation, with Bernd Leno in goal. Timothy Castagne and Antonee Robinson will be deployed as the full-backs. They will look to help out during counterattacks and protect the central defenders. Issa Diop will start at the heart of the defence alongside Tosin Adarabioyo.

In the midfield, Joao Palhinha will star as the central defensive midfielder alongside Andreas Pereira and Tom Cairney. Palhinha will look to break up the opposition attacks, while Pereira and Cairney will add creativity to the side. Finally, Carlos Vinicius should lead the line for Fulham, with Harry Wilson and Bobby De Cordova-Reid featuring on either side of him.

Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Leno; Castagne, Diop, Adarabioyo, Robinson; Cairney, Palhinha, Pereira; Wilson, Vinicius, Cordova-Reid

Key Stats

    Everton are unbeaten in five of the last six matches across all competitions.
    Fulham have failed to win three of the last six matches across all competitions.
    Fulham have won four of the last six matches against Everton.
    14 goals have been scored in the last six matches between these two sides.

Player to Watch
James Garner
Everton will look to dominate the midfield contest here, and Garner will be a key player for them. The English midfielder has been outstanding for Everton in his last few outings, and he is one of the main reasons they are on an impressive run of form.

The 22-year-old is excellent with his long-range passing and ability to hold on to the ball. He will add creativity and defensive steel to the Everton midfield. With Abdoulaye Doucoure missing out, Garner's performance will hold the key for Everton.

Prediction
Everton 2-1 Fulham
Although the West London club have an impressive head-to-head record against Everton, this is likely to be a difficult contest for them. Everton are full of confidence and momentum right now, and they will be the favourites at home.

Sean Dyche will demand a strong performance from his players, and Everton should be able to extend their fine run of form in front of their own fans. A narrow home win is on the cards. The Hard Tackle predicts Dyche and his charges to reach the EFL Cup semi-finals with a 2-1 victory on Tuesday.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2023/12/18/everton-vs-fulham-preview-and-prediction/

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Man Utd want signing of £60.2million star – Talks held
Manchester United were defensively brilliant against Liverpool and earned a point at Anfield for the first time since 2021.

Ten Hag still needs reinforcements in the defensive third and as per reports in the media, the Red Devils are linked with a move to sign Joao Palhinha from Fulham,

Not so long ago, TEAMtalk reported that Man Utd have held talks with the representatives of the midfielder, who is a wanted player in the market.

Today, Record have covered a story and stated (news image provided below) that Palhinha continues to attract suitors.

The news source have mentioned that Man Utd are one of the clubs that want to secure the signing of the 28-year-old defensive midfielder from the Cottagers.

He was close to moving to Bayern Munich in the summer and the Bavarians still have him on their radar.

There is real threat from the Premier League clubs as Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and most recently Manchester City have entered the race to sign the ex Primeira Liga holding midfielder

As far as the valuation is concerned, Record report Palhinha is rated at 70 million euros (£60.2million).

After spending a huge amount to lure veteran DM, Casemiro, last year. Should Man Utd spend £60.2million to sign Joao Palhinha, who will turn 29 next year?



https://www.thefaithfulmufc.com/man-utd-want-signing-of-60-2million-palhinha-talks-held/

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Injury Expert shares early Fulham team news for EFL Cup clash v Everton
Fulham could be without four first-team players for their EFL Cup clash against Everton, according to Ben Dinnery.

The injury expert shared the data on his website and has listed the players who will not be available and are "ruled out", for Tuesday's clash (19 December) at Goodison Park.

Adama Traore (thigh) and Raul Jimenez (suspension) are both ruled out of Tuesday's EFL Cup encounter while first-team ever-present defenders Tim Ream (calf) and Calvin Bassey (illness) are unlikely to feature with their status' at 25 per cent, according to Dinnery.

Confidence
Given the form Everton are in right now, Fulham will be heading to Merseyside on Tuesday with plenty to fear in what will be an all-or-nothing tie at Goodison Park.

The Cottagers, after two 5-0 drubbings over Nottingham Forest and West Ham United suffered a demoralising 3-0 defeat to Newcastle at the weekend after seeing star striker Raul Jimenez sent off for a silly incident which certainly hands Everton all the impetus.

Everton are on a superb run of four consecutive wins in the Premier League since their unfortunate points deduction but are certainly playing like a side riding high in the table and if not for their points deduction, would find themselves a couple points off the European spots in the table.

Recent form certainly suggests Everton are favourites but it's important to note Fulham registered a win at Goodison earlier in the first game of the season so revenge will be on the cards.

The Toffees supporters will be keen for Silva to have a torrid return to Merseyside in their meeting under the lights and Dyche has a great chance of taking his rejuvenated team into the semi-finals. What an achievement that would be.

Tremendous incentive,



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/12/18/injury-expert-shares-early-fulham-team-news-for-efl-cup-clash-v-everton/

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Fulham considering move to sign midfield "controller" to replace Palhinha
The Cottagers have already sent scouts to watch their target live in action.

Fulham are considering a move to sign a new central talisman to succeed Joao Palhinha in January, according to a fresh report that has emerged.

Joao Palhinha expected to leave Fulham
Over the summer, Palhinha came extremely close to completing a move to Bundesliga outfit Bayern Munich having even travelled to complete a medical, but a deal ended up falling through at the last minute on deadline day, meaning that he stayed in the capital.

However, Premier League clubs are now believed to have entered the race to secure his services, so should he leave for real at any stage next month, Marco Silva will have to enter the market to find a suitable replacement for his talisman.

Feyenoord's defensive midfielder Mats Wieffer only joined his club last summer from Excelsior, but he's quickly established himself as a regular feature of the starting line-up, having made a total of 59 appearances to date (Transfermarkt - Wieffer statistics).

The Netherlands international has firmly established himself as Arne Slot's best-performing defensive player so far this season (WhoScored - Feyenoord statistics), and the 24-year-old's outstanding form has caught the eye of the hierarchy at Craven Cottage.

Fulham keen on Feyenoord "controller" Mats Wieffer
According to Football Insider, Fulham are interested in Wieffer and are weighing up an approach should they lose Palhinha in January.

"Fulham are weighing up a move for Feyenoord midfielder Mats Wieffer, sources have told Football Insider. Football Insider revealed on Friday (15 December) that scouts from the Craven Cottage outfit were in attendance for the Dutch giants' clash with Celtic in the Champions League this week. A well-placed source has told Football Insider that he could cost around £20-25m with Feyenoord reluctant to lose him mid-season."

As it stands, Wieffer currently ranks in the 97th percentile for both blocks and aerial wins by players in his position, showing that he's not afraid to put his body on the line to clear the danger for his team (FBRef - Wieffer statistics) Standing at 6 foot 3, Borne's native has also made 44 tackles over the course of the current campaign which is more than any of his fellow teammates, highlighting his desire to get stuck into challenges to try and win back possession (FBRef - Feyenoord statistics).

Sponsored by Puma, Silva's target has even had a taste of what it's like to compete and be successful at a high level having won two pieces of silverware since the start of his career, so he will possess the winning mentality to thrive in the Premier League.As described by football data analyst Ben Mattinson, Wieffer is a "controller" in the centre of the park due to his ability to dictate the game when he has the ball at his feet, so should the opportunity present itself, this is a no-brainer of a deal for the board to complete in January.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-considering-midfield-controller-wieffer-to-replace-palhinha/

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Garth Crooks is furious about 'shocking' moment from Newcastle's win over Fulham on Saturday
Newcastle United beat Fulham on Saturday, and were boosted with the visitors going down to 10 men.

Raul Jimenez was given a red card in the first half for a challenge on Sean Longstaff, despite initially only receiving a yellow.

However, the referee Samuel Barrott was instructed by VAR to have another look, and decided to upgrade it from a yellow to a red card. After 22 minutes, Jimenez's afternoon was already over.

From that moment on it was an incredibly difficult game for Fulham. Once Newcastle got the opening goal through Lewis Miley, the floodgates opened.

In the end, it was a convincing 3-0 win for Eddie Howe's side, with Miguel Almiron and Dan Burn also scoring. It could have been more than three, with Callum Wilson striking the post late on.

It was a comfortable victory for Newcastle, made all the more routine by Jimenez seeing red. It looked like a sending off in real time, with the forward jumping into Longstaff and crashing into his head with his hip. That tells you how out of control he was.

But Fulham boss Marco Silva was not happy with the decision, and neither is BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks.

Garth Crooks not happy with red card decision during Newcastle vs Fulham
After naming Lewis Miley in his team of the week for the BBC website, Crooks gave his thoughts on the red card that Fulham received on Saturday.

"Fulham, on the other hand, suffered from a referee with a shocking attack of playing to the St James' Park crowd," he said.

"Raul Jimenez's challenge that led to his red card was an embarrassing striker's challenge but nothing more."

Idiotic challenge from Raul Jimenez on Sean Longstaff
Crooks believes that the decision to change it from a yellow to a red for Jimenez was influenced by the fans, which seems hard to believe. We have seen plenty of bad decisions go against us, just like every club.

It was a really strange incident, and one that Jimenez will have replayed in his head over and over again ever since he left the St James' Park pitch.

What he did was massively clumsy, and as soon as the referee was told to have a look at the screen by VAR, you knew it was going to be a red.

Personally, I think a yellow would have been sufficient. For me, it was what they call 'an orange'.

But it was no surprise to see it become a red after watching the replays. It truly was idiotic from a striker who was in fine form going into the game.

He cost his side on Saturday, as Fulham really were causing us problems before they went down to 10 men.



https://www.geordiebootboys.com/news/garth-crooks-is-furious-about-shocking-moment-from-newcastles-win-over-fulham-on-saturday/

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Fulham set to beat Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal to highly rated Brazilian in deal in excess of £20million
Brazilian midfielder Andre is expected to join Fulham next year, talkSPORT understands.

The 22-year-old Fluminense star is one of the latest exciting talents to emerge from Brazilian football and has attracted Premier League interest.

Giants including Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool have reportedly been keen on making a move for Andre.

However, it's Fulham who look set to seal his signature in what could be a massive coup for Marco Silva's side.

talkSPORT understands the Cottagers already have an agreement in principle in place with Andre.

Fulham are prepared to pay Fluminense a fee in excess of £20million and are waiting to see whether or not any Joao Palhinha sale will offset Andre's incoming.

Bayern Munich are expected to return having almost signed Palhinha late last summer, with Arsenal also holding genuine interest.

But the £75million+ price tag means they are unlikely to enter the race for the Portuguese international in January.

Andre has spent the whole of his career at Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A side Fluminense, rising from their academy to first-team.

He has made 169 senior appearances for the club, most recently in the Club World Cup out in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

They beat Egyptian side Al Ahly 2-0 and Andre was named as the Man of the Match in yet another fine performance for Fluminense.

When asked about links with Fulham, Andre told talkSPORT: "I watch the Premier League and it is a big dream to play there.

"I am focused on finishing the season with Fluminense and realising our dream of winning the Club World Cup. But my dream is clear, to be a Premier League player."

Fluminense's win means they will face either Urawa Red Diamonds or Manchester City in the final on Friday night.

A clash against the latter would see Andre face Premier League opposition for the first time, and he is relishing such a challenge.

"Over the last five years, Manchester City are the best team in the world and everyone in Brazil stops to watch them play," he added.

"It will be an incredible experience to play in the Club World Cup final against Manchester City if they get in through to it."



https://talksport.com/football/1682898/

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Fulham have Andre 'agreement in principle'
Fulham have reached an 'agreement in principle' with Fluminense to sign their midfielder Andre, according to Talksport.

The Brazilian international has been a long-term transfer target for the Whites, who are prepared to an up-front fee of more than £20m to beat several leading Premier League sides, including Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal, to the 22 year-old's signature. Fulham were close to completing a move for the defensive midfielder last summer and chief executive Alistair Mackintosh flew to Brazil to conduct face-to-face negotiations with the Fluminense.

Andre, who has been with Fluzão since the age of twelve, has a verbal agreement with the Fluminense president Mario Bittencourt to leave the club at the end of 2023 after a stellar year. He helped his boyhood side win the first Copa Libertadores title in their history, shining as Argentinian giants Boca Juniors were beaten in a dramatic final last month at the Maracana. Andre also produced a man-of-the-match performance last night as Fernando Diniz's side beat Al Ahly to reach the Club World Cup final.

The tenacious midfielder, who made his international debut for Brazil in June and has won four senior caps, has described the prospect of a Premier League move as 'a dream' and Andre's arrival at Craven Cottage will represent a real coup for Marco Silva.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/12/fulham-have-andre-agreement-in-principle/

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Mykolenko, Doucoure, Coleman: full Everton injury list and potential return games - gallery
Everton injury news as they prepare for two big games.

Everton are preparing for a big week in their 2023-24 season.

Optimism is as high as it has been for some time among supporters - with the players and fans united. After being hit with a 10-point Premier League deduction for breaching financial rules, which has been appealed, the Toffees have reacted in the best manner possible. Since the punishment, Everton have won all four games - with their points docking wiped out and are seven points clear of relegation.

Now the Blues turn their attention to a Carabao Cup quarter-final against Fulham, with a potential Wembley outing on the horizon, before travelling to Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend. Sean Dyche has admitted his squad is getting slightly stretched because of injuries, however, and here's a look at the current situation.

1. Abdoulaye Doucoure - hamstring
Forced off against Burnley and it will depend how serious the midfielder's problem is. Potential return game: Fulham (H), Tues 19 Dec or Tottenham (A), Sat 23 Dec.

2. Vitalii Mykolenko - groin
The left-back's injury is only minor but much will depend on how it has settled down. Potential return game: Fulham (H), Tues 19 Dec or Tottenham (A), Sat 23 Dec.

3. Ashley Young - knock
The veteran 38-year-old was forced off against Chelsea in the first half with what Dyche described as a 'niggly' issue. Potential return game: Fulham (H), Tues 19 Dec or Tottenham (A), Sat 23 Dec.

4. Seamus Coleman -
The Everton captain was immense in his first appearance in seven months in the 3-0 win over Newcastle. Coleman was forced off in the second half but was back running on the treadmill the next day before ordered to stop. Everton are assessing him day by day. Potential return game: Fulham (H), Tues 19 Dec or Tottenham (A), Sat 23 Dec.

5. Jarrad Branthwaite - suspension
The defender has been one of Everton's best players this season but picked up a fifth booking of the season against Chelsea and has not served a ban. Return game: Fulham (H), Tues 19 Dec.

6. Idrissa Gana Gueye - suspension
Also was handed a fifth yellow card of the season against Chelsea. Return game: Fulham (H), Tues 19 Dec.

7. Andre Gomes - calf
The midfielder is back in training and has played two games for the under-21s. But Gomes is still to play a full 90 minutes, which is Dyche's final test after a long-term injury. Potential return: Man City (H), Wed 28 Dec.

8. Dele - groin
The midfielder has been taking part in sessions on the grass but Everton will be cautious when he can feature again. Potential return: January




https://www.liverpoolworld.uk/sport/football/everton/mykolenko-doucoure-coleman-full-everton-injury-list-and-potential-return-games-4450369

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'Crucial days for him now...' – Sky reporter drops update on Joao Palhinha/Liverpool rumours
Florian Plettenberg posted an update on Joao Palhinha's future on Monday night, one which might disappoint Liverpool supporters.

The Fulham midfielder has been an ongoing transfer target at Anfield throughout 2023 and continues to be linked with the Reds ahead of the January window, along with Bayern Munich, the club he was on course to join at the end of the summer before the deal fell through.

Taking to X late last night, the Sky Sports Germany reporter stated that the 28-year-old is entering 'crucial days' in terms of his future, but Jurgen Klopp's side were ruled out of the running.

Plettenberg posted: "Understand that Liverpool is definitely not in the race for João Palhinha. He's not a transfer target in winter / #LFC

"But: Crucial days for him now as many other top clubs want him in January. Talks ongoing. FC Bayern still want to sign a new No. 6. However, internally, he is still considered too expensive."

This update from Plettenberg, along with an assertion from the Daily Mail on Monday that midfield additions are 'unlikely' in January, appears to end any prospect of Liverpool signing Palhinha next month.

If the Reds are to add to their squad during the winter transfer window, the likeliest scenario is that their defence is strengthened, with options in that part of the squad lessened by injuries to Joel Matip and Andy Robertson.

Of course, what happens in our three remaining matches in December could alter the priorities at Anfield ahead of January – a new midfielder may have been bumped up the list after Ryan Gravenberch incurred a hamstring problem in the 0-0 draw against Manchester United on Sunday.

As ever, we trust in Klopp and the Liverpool hierarchy to bring in the players who they believe are the right fit for the German's squad. We just hope that he's not left short on options for the rest of the season once the window shuts at the end of next month.



https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/19/palhinha-liverpool-transfer-latest-plettenberg/

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Everton handed huge boost ahead of Carabao Cup quarter-final clash v Fulham
Everton's newfound confidence and positivity could be set to reach its highest point in recent years tonight, as they host a Fulham side who stand in the way of the EFL Cup semi-final.

Having handed Aston Villa their only home loss of the season across all competitions in the last round, already the Toffees have made their mark on the competition.

Well, with Manchester City also having been dumped out, it truly feels like this trophy is there for the taking.

With two in-form sides going head-to-head, it promises to be an enthralling fixture, in which the visitors actually came away with the win earlier in the season. However, since then, things have changed dramatically.

Sean Dyche's men are flying, and are now showcasing a shared proficiency and solidity that has helped them win their last four Premier League games, failing to concede once.

It will take an almighty task to breach their backline tonight, made even harder due to the absence of their main marksman Raul Jimenez.

The Mexican forward saw his yellow card upgraded to a red on Saturday, and as well as leaving his team in the lurch against Newcastle United, was handed a three-match ban too.

How is unavailable for Everton tonight vs Fulham?
Having joined for £5m in the summer, many questioned the 32-year-old's ability to replace the outbound Aleksandar Mitrovic.

However, his recent form has arguably been the spearhead of Fulham's mini-resurgence, with journalist Peter Rutzler having seen his 'goal machine' suggestion come true again. Before his dismissal, the striker had scored three in his last two.

The Cottagers are not the only ones missing key men though, with Dyche having to deal with his fair share of absentees.

After all, Vitaliy Mykolenko remains unlikely to return, having missed Saturday's win over Burnley. His unavailability actually forced them to rethink the entire system, given Ashley Young's injury left them little cover at left-back.

Seamus Coleman is another expected to be out, whilst the half-time substitution of Abdoulaye Doucoure against Burnley had fans worried.

Dyche has since revealed that the Mali international is expected to be 'touch-and-go', but to risk him tonight seems foolish given the fixture list is only set to pile up further in the coming weeks.

Other absentees include the likes of Andre Gomes and Dele Alli, both of whom have made great strides towards a potential first-team return in the coming weeks.

Whilst Jimenez's injury marks a huge blow for Marco Silva, given how it significantly blunts his attack, it is instead Dyche's defence that has been ravaged by this mid-season flurry of fixtures.




https://www.everton.news/everton-handed-huge-boost-ahead-of-carabao-cup-quarter-final-clash-v-fulham/

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Injury Expert shares early Everton team news for EFL Cup clash v Fulham as Abdoulaye Doucoure update emerges
Everton could be without six first-team players for their EFL Cup clash against Fulham, according to Ben Dinnery.

The injury expert shared the data on his website and has listed the players who will not be available and are "ruled out", for Tuesday's clash (19 December) at Goodison Park.

Dele Alli is still ruled out for the Toffees as he steps up his recovery from a groin injury, but there are as many as five doubts for Sean Dyche with Abdoulaye Doucoure (thigh), Ashley Young, Seamus Coleman (knock), Vitaly Mykoleko (groin) all likely out of Tuesday's game.

Andre Gomes is also at 25 per cent but has been stepping up his fitness with the reserves after a long injury lay-off so is unlikely to return to first-team action before the new year.

Confidence
Given the form Everton are in right now, Fulham will be heading to Merseyside on Tuesday with plenty to fear in what will be an all-or-nothing tie at Goodison Park.

The Cottagers, after two 5-0 drubbings over Nottingham Forest and West Ham United suffered a demoralising 3-0 defeat to Newcastle at the weekend after seeing star striker Raul Jimenez sent off for a silly incident which certainly hands Everton all the impetus.

Everton are on a superb run of four consecutive wins in the Premier League since their unfortunate points deduction but are certainly playing like a side riding high in the table, despite their current absentee situation.

If not for the points deduction, they would be a couple of points off the European spots in the table on 26 points.

Recent form certainly suggests Everton are favourites but it's important to note Fulham registered a win at Goodison earlier in the first game of the season so revenge will be on the cards.

The Toffees supporters will be keen for Silva to have a torrid return to Merseyside in their meeting under the lights and Dyche has a great chance of taking his rejuvenated team into the semi-finals. What an achievement that would be.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/12/19/injury-expert-shares-early-everton-team-news-for-efl-cup-clash-v-fulham/

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22-year-old Fulham target impresses during Club World Cup semi-final yesterday
While Fulham prepare for their huge Carabao Cup quarter-final against Everton this evening, transfer target Andre Trindade was in action at the Club World Cup.

The Whites are reportedly closing in on a deal for the Brazilian international and he could be taking part in his final competition for Fluminense.

The Copa Libertadores champions faced Al Ahly yesterday in Saudi Arabia and the Brazilian media have given their verdict on the 22-year-old's performance.

There are a few problem areas that Marco Silva will want to address in the January transfer market.

The main position is a centre-forward and Raul Jimenez's suspension after being sent off against Newcastle only highlights the issue.

Silva has to decide whether Carlos Vinicius, Rodrigo Muniz or possibly even Bobby De Cordova-Reid starts against Everton this evening.

While the likes of Jonas Wind and Santiago Gimenez have been linked with a move to Craven Cottage, it's yet to be seen whether the club will actually make a move next month.

One player Fulham would have been keeping a very close eye on during the Club World Cup in Andre.

The young midfielder is very much on the club's radar and is very keen on a move to the Premier League.

He helped his side qualify for the final of the competition last night and could be set to face Manchester City this weekend.

Fulham target Andre stars in Club World Cup
Brazilian outlet Globo gave Andre a 6/10 and said: "It took him a while to get into the game in the first half, but he grew throughout the first half and became an important player in the middle even though he wasn't in the best of times.

"He started the second goal with a beautiful touch in front of the tricolour area."

Fulham might be slightly worried that Andre has alerted plenty of top clubs with his performance at the Club World Cup.

However, the club still have plenty of cash to splash after the sale of Aleksandar Mitrovic in the summer.

If Joao Palhinha were to move on as well amid growing interest from across the Premier League, then Silva will be demanding Fulham dip into the transfer market to replace him.

Andre isn't a direct replacement but would be a fantastic addition to Fulham's midfield.

The prospect of the Portuguese-speaking pair playing together is even more exciting.




https://www.fulham.news/2023/12/19/22-year-old-fulham-target-impresses-during-club-world-cup-semi-final-yesterday/

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No Doucoure or Branthwaite in Everton predicted lineup vs Fulham
Everton are just one win away from reaching the Carabao Cup semi finals with Sean Dyche hoping this lineup can get them there.

Everton will hope they keep up their great recent form in the Carabao Cup tonight, knowing a win against Fulham at Goodison Park means they have a very real possibility of picking up silverware soon.

Overcoming Marco Silva's Cottagers would see Sean Dyche's Toffees seal progression to the semi-finals of the competition, the buoyed-on Merseyside outfit then just two legs away from Wembley and a Cup final.

Dyche's men will not want to get carried away however and will focus on the task immediately in front of them, with Fulham a tricky opposition for Everton to get the better of under the floodlights tonight.

Here's the predicted lineup the Everton boss could go for in the Carabao Cup, with Abdoulaye Doucoure potentially dropping out amidst a formation switch...

1 GK - Jordan Pickford
It's pretty much set-in-stone that Jordan Pickford will start this quarter-final contest, the ex-Sunderland goalkeeper hasn't missed a single minute of action yet this season in all competitions.

The trusted Toffees shot-stopper also kept a clean sheet against Burnley in the last round, hoping to add another to his collection tonight versus Fulham.

2 RB - Nathan Patterson
With Ashley Young still absent due to injury - the former Manchester United figure present against Burnley in the last round - Nathan Patterson will stay in the side after a sterling performance in his team's 2-0 win in the Premier League last game.

abdoulaye-doucoure-everton-dyche-premier-league-dominic-calvert-lewin-brentford

Everton will hope they keep up their great recent form in the Carabao Cup tonight, knowing a win against Fulham at Goodison Park means they have a very real possibility of picking up silverware soon.

Overcoming Marco Silva's Cottagers would see Sean Dyche's Toffees seal progression to the semi-finals of the competition, the buoyed-on Merseyside outfit then just two legs away from Wembley and a Cup final.

Dyche's men will not want to get carried away however and will focus on the task immediately in front of them, with Fulham a tricky opposition for Everton to get the better of under the floodlights tonight.

Here's the predicted lineup the Everton boss could go for in the Carabao Cup, with Abdoulaye Doucoure potentially dropping out amidst a formation switch...
1 GK - Jordan Pickford
Jordan-Pickford-1

It's pretty much set-in-stone that Jordan Pickford will start this quarter-final contest, the ex-Sunderland goalkeeper hasn't missed a single minute of action yet this season in all competitions.

The trusted Toffees shot-stopper also kept a clean sheet against Burnley in the last round, hoping to add another to his collection tonight versus Fulham.
2 RB - Nathan Patterson
nathan-patterson-everton-premier-league

With Ashley Young still absent due to injury - the former Manchester United figure present against Burnley in the last round - Nathan Patterson will stay in the side after a sterling performance in his team's 2-0 win in the Premier League last game.

Winning a combined six tackles and interceptions away at Turf Moor- as per Sofascore - the ex-Rangers man will more than likely start this Cup game.

3 CB - Michael Keane
Switching back to a 4-4-1-1 formation potentially could see Ben Godfrey axed from the lineup after playing at the weekend, Michael Keane the first of just two centre-backs instead of three.

Keane was a colossus in the 2-0 win last match versus Vincent Kompany's Clarets, making eight clearances in total to preserve the Toffees clean sheet.

That was the 30-year-old's first taste of action in the league since playing in the Merseyside Derby back in October - filling in for a suspended Jarrad Branthwaite, who might be rested tonight owing to Keane's heroics.

abdoulaye-doucoure-everton-dyche-premier-league-dominic-calvert-lewin-brentford

Everton will hope they keep up their great recent form in the Carabao Cup tonight, knowing a win against Fulham at Goodison Park means they have a very real possibility of picking up silverware soon.

Overcoming Marco Silva's Cottagers would see Sean Dyche's Toffees seal progression to the semi-finals of the competition, the buoyed-on Merseyside outfit then just two legs away from Wembley and a Cup final.

Dyche's men will not want to get carried away however and will focus on the task immediately in front of them, with Fulham a tricky opposition for Everton to get the better of under the floodlights tonight.

Here's the predicted lineup the Everton boss could go for in the Carabao Cup, with Abdoulaye Doucoure potentially dropping out amidst a formation switch...
1 GK - Jordan Pickford
Jordan-Pickford-1

It's pretty much set-in-stone that Jordan Pickford will start this quarter-final contest, the ex-Sunderland goalkeeper hasn't missed a single minute of action yet this season in all competitions.

The trusted Toffees shot-stopper also kept a clean sheet against Burnley in the last round, hoping to add another to his collection tonight versus Fulham.
2 RB - Nathan Patterson
nathan-patterson-everton-premier-league

With Ashley Young still absent due to injury - the former Manchester United figure present against Burnley in the last round - Nathan Patterson will stay in the side after a sterling performance in his team's 2-0 win in the Premier League last game.

Winning a combined six tackles and interceptions away at Turf Moor- as per Sofascore - the ex-Rangers man will more than likely start this Cup game.
3 CB - Michael Keane
Michael-Keane-Everton-Toffees

Switching back to a 4-4-1-1 formation potentially could see Ben Godfrey axed from the lineup after playing at the weekend, Michael Keane the first of just two centre-backs instead of three.

Keane was a colossus in the 2-0 win last match versus Vincent Kompany's Clarets, making eight clearances in total to preserve the Toffees clean sheet.

That was the 30-year-old's first taste of action in the league since playing in the Merseyside Derby back in October - filling in for a suspended Jarrad Branthwaite, who might be rested tonight owing to Keane's heroics.

4 CB - James Tarkowski
James Tarkowski could also be retained to make up an experienced centre-back partnership, even with Branthwaite back in contention for a start.

It would feel harsh to drop the former Clarets centre-back for a match against his former side, the 31-year-old equally solid in the heart of defence alongside Keane with 80% of his aerial duels won in Saturday's 2-0 victory.

5 LB - Vitaliy Mykolenko
Vitaliy Myklolenko was missing from Everton's weekend match against Burnley, Dyche stating that the Ukrainian defender had been battling with a niggle prior to the game and was deemed unfit.

Dyche could well fast-track Mykolenko back into the lineup with the Blues threadbare in this position currently, with Dwight McNeil having to fill in there in the league.

It could be touch and go right up to the lineup announcement surrounding Mykolenko's availability and whether or not the boss believes he's worth risking for the occasion.

6 RM - Jack Harrison
Jack Harrison will retain his spot in the lineup for the Carabao Cup quarter final showdown, the Leeds United loanee effective at the weekend in spurts up against a weak Burnley defence.

Harrison was aggressive and constantly on the move in the game which exposed the Clarets and their frail nature at the back, whilst also remaining committed to his defensive duties from time to time with four out of his six ground duels successfully won.

7 CM - James Garner
Played down the flanks by Dyche last match, James Garner will be reverted back to a central midfield spot against Fulham in the cup to make up for Abdoulaye Doucoure potentially sitting this one out.

Doucoure came off at half-time away at Turf Moor on Saturday with the Toffees manager stating that a 'tight hamstring' curtailed his afternoon and resulted in him being hauled off at the interval.

Garner will be able to competently fill in for Everton's top scorer in all competitions tonight, excellent still in an unorthodox role away at Burnley with two key passes registered.

8 CM - Amadou Onana
Away from Michael Keane stealing the show as a surprise inclusion, Amadou Onana also endeared himself to the Everton fanbase even further with a top-drawer performance last time in the Premier League.

Onana used his towering frame to score the opener against the Clarets, connecting perfectly with a McNeil corner to give the away side a springboard in the game to go on and comfortably win.

He was important away from just this header however with just four misplaced passes registered as a calm presence, gaining an 8/10 match rating by Liverpool Echo football journalist Chris Beesley after the win who characterised his display as both 'dominant' and 'dynamic'.

9 LM - Dwight McNeil
McNeil will be pushed further up the field to a more natural left midfield slot if Mykolenko is deemed fit enough to start this quarter final matchup, Everton's number seven enjoying a purple patch of form recently.

His excellent corner delivery into the box enabled his team to take the lead versus Burnley, Onana alert and ready to pounce knowing McNeil's set-piece would be on the money.

The 24-year-old was also electric in the 3-0 victory over Newcastle picked up by his side two matches into their recent four-match winning streak recently, helping himself to a goal and an assist against the ropey Magpies.

10 AM - Arnaut Danjuma
Coming into the side to make up this attacking midfield spot behind Dominic Calvert-Lewin could be Arnaut Danjuma, who has featured in every Carabao Cup game so far this season for Dyche's side.

He has impressed in this competition too, scoring in the first round Everton participated in way back in August versus League Two Doncaster Rovers.

Danjuma's individual performance against Doncaster even saw Liverpool Echo football journalist Connor O'Neill describe the attacker as a "constant threat" in South Yorkshire. He's not quite been the "nightmare" that Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips once said he could be, however.

Indeed, the 26-year-old hasn't really pushed on to be a worthwhile starting presence in the Premier League however, Dyche giving Danjuma another chance to impress in the cup tonight to stake a claim potentially for a starting spot in the league.

11 ST - Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Calvert-Lewin might well be going through a barren goalscoring spell currently - not finding the back of the net since late October when he netted versus West Ham United - but the 6 foot 2 centre forward will start as Dyche's lone striker regardless in this one.

The former Sheffield United youngster turned Blues stalwart has scored once in this competition this season much like Danjuma, and will want to add another to his Carabao Cup tally versus Fulham to kickstart a possible potent streak.

Full Everton predicted lineup vs Burnley: GK - Pickford; RB - Patterson, CB - Keane, CB - Tarkowski, LB - Mykolenko; RM - Harrison, CM - Garner, CM - Onana, LM - McNeil, AM - Danjuma; ST - Calvert-Lewin.




https://www.footballfancast.com/no-doucoure-or-branthwaite-in-everton-predicted-lineup-vs-fulham/#st---dominic-calvert-lewin

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The Opposition View: Everton vs Fulham | Toffees and Cottagers with big Cup ambitions
Blues look to pay ex-boss Silva back for opening day defeat with more sturdy work

Everton Football Club are rolling right now, and Sean Dyche is demonstrating his mettle and vision with a team better than anything he ever had at Turf Moor. Sure, he has some old favorites from his time as Burnley's boss - Michael Keane, James Tarkowski, and Dwight McNeil - but this entire Toffee squad has purpose and belief that supporters haven't seen since the fleeting days of Don Carlo Ancelotti.

Four straight wins. Four straight clean sheets. Tenacious defense and aggressive attacking. The side is transformed from those groups that suffered for much of the time under both Rafa Benitez and Frank Lampard; sure, there were moments, and this writer often excitedly highlighted those in the past, but the consistency and toughness of this side, along with the attacking qualities the team now possesses, has Sean Dyche and company looking like he's found a formula to end the follies that have long been witnessed on Merseyside

Against Fulham to open this current Premier League campaign, the Blues played well but fell short, dropping all three points to start the new year poorly. Now, Everton will look to pay Marco Silva and the Cottagers back by knocking them out of the Carabao Cup at the quarterfinal stage.

To win would be massive for each side, yet only one will move on; who will it be? Well, only time will tell, and Tuesday's match draws ever closer.

Ahead of Tuesday's Carabao Cup quarterfinal match between Everton and Fulham, we spoke with Russ Goldman of SBN's dedicated Fulham site Cottagers Confidential and the Cottage Talk podcast:

RBM: Firstly, with Fulham going through an inconsistent Premier League season, what are the feelings like around the supporters and Craven Cottage?

    RG: I think it has taken a bit to come together for Fulham, but they are finally putting it all together and are heading in the right direction. Regardless of the loss against Newcastle United, Fulham are playing together as a team now and spreading the goals around.

RBM: What can Everton expect from Fulham in the Carabao Cup?

    RG: This match is important to Fulham, so I expect them to play on the front foot and take this match seriously. Everton are playing very well, but so are Fulham. I am expecting a tough match for both sides.

RBM: Why is the team less potent this year than last? Is it as easy as Aleksandr Mitrovic?

    RG: They have finally moved on from Mitrovic, as it has taken a while for the players to adapt to playing together but they now have an identity and that is exciting for the rest of the season. I think Tom Cairney has been key to Fulham's resurgence with goals.

RBM: How have Marco Silva and company coped?

    RG: He has coped by not changing his approach at all, and he is starting to see the results from the hard work. I think when he signed his new contract, everything changed with Fulham.

RBM: Will Fulham be looking to innovate this January? Any names or positions being eyed?

    RG: They need a striker, and possibly two CMs so I expect Fulham to add quality to what they already have.

RBM: What are the ambitions for this side across all competitions for the rest of this year?

    RG: I predicted 7th when the season began, so I am not ruling that out if they get the recruitment right in January.

RBM: How do you expect Fulham to set up on Tuesday? Which of Fulham's players do you think could cause Everton the most problems?

    RG: Well I expect Fulham to play their 4-3-3 system under Silva, but there might be some rotation from the regular starters. I think Alex Iwobi is someone that Everton knows well, and he has been one of Fulham's best players. I would also be concerned with Palhinha, who controls everything from the midfield.

RBM: Finally, what's your prediction for the match?

    RG: I am going with a 2-1 Fulham victory, but it will be a very close match against two very good sides.

Our thanks to Russ for his time.




https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2023/12/19/24005096/everton-vs-fulham-the-opposition-view-carabao-cup-quarter-final-match-preview-marco-silva

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Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Foundation Trust welcomes players from Fulham FC this Christmas



Christmas came early for our short-stay patients and ward staff on the Nightingale Unit as well as our paediatric patients on the Mercury and Neptune wards who were treated to a surprise visit from some of the local Fulham FC players.

Andreas Pereira, Willian, Kenny Tete, and Carlos Vinícius delighted patients and their families by handing out Christmas presents as well as taking photos and sharing signed Fulham FC merchandise.



Simone Hunt, Mercury Ward Manager, who was present on the day, explained 'Christmas can sometimes be a difficult time of year for many of our patients, however seeing the excitement on the day is just amazing. More than anything, it's a chance for the children and their families to meet their heroes who will brighten their hospital experience'.



The Trust would like to thank both teams at Fulham FC for giving up their time to visit the Mercury, Neptune, and Nightingale wards and for spreading cheer to our staff, patients and their families this time of year.







https://www.chelwest.nhs.uk/about-us/news/chelsea-and-westminster-hospital-foundation-trust-welcomes-players-from-fulham-fc-this-christmas

[WhiteJC]

Everton Matchday Preview
Everton v Fulham | Tuesday 19th December | 7.45pm | Goodison Park | #EVEFUL

The opposition

    Everton have impressed in the Carabao Cup this season, following up victory over Doncaster Rovers by dispatching two Premier League sides in Aston Villa and Burnley.
    They've turned a corner with their league form, too, winning five of their last six matches to move comfortably clear of the relegation zone.
    The 10-point deduction given to the Toffees appeared to galvanise the side, with the likes of Newcastle United and Chelsea leaving Goodison Park empty handed after the punishment was handed down.

Everton team news

Idrissa Gana Gueye and Jarrad Branthwaite return from suspension, but full-backs Ashley Young, Seamus Coleman and Vitalii Mykolenko all missed Saturday's win over Burnley, and could be absent again, while Abdoulaye Doucoure went off at half-time with tightness in his hamstring.

Fulham team news

Raúl Jiménez serves the first of a three-game ban, but Calvin Bassey could return. Tim Ream and Adama Traoré remain sidelined.

Tickets

Tickets for this match are now off sale, with none available to buy on the day.

Weather

It should be dry at kick-off, though there is a chance of rain later on. Temperatures around seven degrees.

Player insight

A win over Everton would put Fulham into their first ever League Cup Semi-Final, something that Tom Cairney views as a significant motivation.

"It's huge," he told FFCtv. "It's a massive game, big game, I'm excited about it. They're in great form at the minute, they're a very good side, so it's going to be a hard, hard cup tie, but I'm sure it will be a good one and hopefully we can get the away win and move on into the Semis."

Level at 90

If the score is level after 90 minutes, we go straight to penalties.

Coverage

FFCtv subscribers can listen to live commentary of the game from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid.

Form

Everton: LWWWW

Fulham: WLWWL

Top scorers

Everton: Abdoulaye Doucoure (6)

Fulham: Raúl Jiménez, Willian (4)



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/december/19/everton-matchday-preview/

[WhiteJC]

Up next: Everton (a)
Fulham's unexpected morphing from shot-shy strugglers into clinical goalscorers hit the buffers at St. James' Park on Saturday afternoon. A leggy Newcastle United got an early Christmas present when Raul Jimenez's ridiculously reckless challenge saw Marco Silva's side reduced to ten men after twenty minutes and the Whites' dogged defence eventually cracked in the second half. Infuriating as it was, there's no shame in being beaten by Eddie Howe's Magpies, especially when they held a numerical advantage. Fulham are still in a far stronger position than a couple of weeks ago by virtue of the terrific twin thrashings meted out to Nottingham Forest and West Ham – and that mid-table comfort should allow Silva the ability to have a real crack at the League Cup quarter-final this evening.

A return to Goodison Park, where the Portuguese coach felt he was harshly sacked four years ago, presents another opportunity for this side to make history. Fulham have never reached the last four of this competition, despite playing in six quarter-final ties. The most recent failure was nineteen years ago against Chelsea when Chris Coleman's side took their local rivals – who had won the derby 4-1 only a few weeks earlier – deep into extra time only for a deflected Frank Lampard strike to cruelly settle matters. That pain pales into insignificance when you consider the missed opportunity that was Filbert Street in 2000: Paul Bracewell's side were two goals to the good when he took off Paul Peschisolido with twenty minutes to play. Leicester came roaring back both in normal time and in the extra thirty minutes, before the Whites missed all of their penalties.

Silva's reign has already reset Fulham's playing philosophy – introducing a sense of adventure that felt liberating after Scott Parker's sterile approach – and the club's ambitions. The exhilarating way in which his stylish side stormed to promotion by winning the Championship in his first season was thing, but Fulham broke the yo-yo cycle by taking the attack to the Premier League. They didn't scratch and claw their way to survival either, surprising everyone to finish tenth last term whilst reaching the last eight of the FA Cup. How they exited the world's oldest club cup competition at Old Trafford still rankles – three red cards in a minute turning a 1-0 lead into a comfortable win for Manchester United – and Silva says he has made his players analyse that failure in the build-up to this game.

The Fulham boss has sought consistency from his side, whose last away win came on the opening day at Everton, and picked an unchanged eleven for those back-to-back 5-0 wins that lifted the gloom around Craven Cottage. Fulham's fluid football has been boosted by the return of captain Tom Cairney alongside Joao Palhinha in central midfield, whilst the introduction of former Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi as a winger has added invention out wide. Silva will definitely be without Raul tonight as the Mexican striker starts a three-match ban following his moment of madness on Tyneside and the puzzler will be who to start up front. Carlos Vinicius has the better pedigree, but Rodrigo Muniz delivered an excellent hold-up display against Manchester United last month before an untimely knee injury intervened. Fulham prospered utilising a false nine against Everton last April: could Bobby De Cordova-Reid, the scorer of the only goal at Goodison in August, be an option in that role?

The Toffees are a team transformed from the early weeks of the season. It isn't just that Sean Dyche's methods are now bearing fruit or even that the siege mentality following that Premier League points deduction has fired everyone connected with the club up. Everton could have won the opening day fixture between the sides convincingly if they had a finisher on the field and, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin back up front, Fulham will need to be much tighter at the back. The talented Jared Branthwaite has added composure to Dyche's defence and should return to the starting line-up having been banned for Saturday's win at Burnley – Everton's fourth in a row – like midfielder Idrissa Gueye. Vitaliy Mykolenko could come back in at left back, but the imposing Abdoulaye Doucoure, a Silva signing from his time on Merseyside, will have a fitness test after coming off at Turf Moof with a groin complaint.

Can Fulham bounce back from the disappointment of a self-inflicted defeat at St. James' Park? They will need to match the intensity of their in-form opponents and find a way of quietening a fervent home support. Silva says the Whites have both 'the desire and ambition' to reach the semi-finals: it is time for his players to prove it.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Diop, Bassey; Palhinha, Cairney; Willian, Iwobi, Pereira; Vinicius. Subs: Rodak, Castagne, Adarabioyo, Reed, Lukic, Wilson, De Cordova-Reid, Harris, Muniz.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/12/up-next-everton-a-5/

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Michael Ball makes 'massive' Everton admission ahead of Carabao Cup clash v Fulham
Michael Ball has admitted that the Carabao Cup quarter-final clash between Everton and Fulham is a "massive" night in the Toffees' season.

Sean Dyche's side welcomes the Cottagers to Goodison Park on Tuesday (19 December) knowing that a win will book their place in the Carabao Cup semi-final and leave them one round away from a final at Wembley.

While the focus for Everton this season has been on avoiding the relegation battle at the bottom of the Premier League, Ball has urged the Toffees to not miss their opportunity.

Writing in the Liverpool Echo (19 December) he said: "Tonight's Carabao Cup quarter-final tie against Fulham is a massive game for the football club. The chance to get into the semi-finals of a cup competition does not come around very often – even less so when you are Everton.

"The other big thing about tonight's game is that we seriously owe Fulham one. Twice, they have come to Goodison Park this year and walked away with all three points.

"With Wembley just two games away, tonight is an opportunity we cannot afford to miss, and I am confident we will be in Wednesday night's draw for the last four."

Cannot afford to miss
As Ball suggests, it isn't too often that the Toffees find their way into the quarter-finals of a cup competition and it would be a great shame if Everton let this opportunity pass them by without grasping it with both hands. That starts with Tuesday's clash at Goodison Park.

Fulham have repeatedly thwarted Dyche's side, especially at Goodison Park and as the end of 2023 draws near, Everton has an excellent chance to put that recent record right and beat Marco Silva's side in front of a rocking Goodison Park.

The Toffees are one of the form teams in England currently and Fulham will not be looking forward to making the trip to Merseyside on Tuesday. If they play like they have in recent weeks, they will have more than quality to book their place in the semi-final.

There is a feeling of confidence around Goodison Park that hasn't been felt in years and that is clear from Ball's column, now the Toffees just have to match those expectations and not slip up against Fulham. With no Manchester City or Arsenal in the competition, Dyche has a genuine chance of lifting a title at Wembley this season.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/12/19/michael-ball-makes-massive-everton-admission-ahead-of-carabao-cup-clash-v-fulham/

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Liverpool now out of the race to sign £90m Premier League midfielder in January
Liverpool have reportedly ruled themselves out of the race to sign Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha heading into January.

The Portuguese international has been intensely linked with a move to Anfield in recent weeks, with Bayern Munich also interested in signing Palhinha.

Valued at £90m by Fulham, Palhinha has been one of the best midfielders in the Premier League since signing for the Cottagers last year.

Yet according to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Liverpool will not be making a move for Palhinha, with the former Sporting Lisbon star no longer a target for the Reds.

Indeed, it's clear that Liverpool are interested in signing a midfielder in January, with a defender also on Jurgen Klopp's agenda heading into next month's transfer window.

And although Palhinha would have been a remarkable signing for the Reds, it's clear that Liverpool are likely targeting younger and more affordable options in the market.

Joao Palhinha could have been perfect for Liverpool at another time
Palhinha has been nothing short of a revelation for Fulham since joining the Cottagers last year, and Liverpool might have felt they missed out on a great signing.

The 28-year-old has been nothing short of brilliant for Marco Silva's side, with Fulham staying up comfortably last season in part to Palhinha's defensive midfield brilliance.

And for Liverpool, they will be kicking themselves over missing out on Palhinha, who could have been the perfect successor to Fabinho in the midfield.

However, this timeline is one we will only now have to ponder at, with Palhinha unlikely to ever join Liverpool after this latest update.



https://www.rousingthekop.com/2023/12/19/liverpool-now-out-of-the-race-to-sign-90m-premier-league-midfielder-in-january/