Friday Fulham Stuff - 29/12/23...

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Results

Thursday 28/12
Brighton	4-2	Spurs
Arsenal	0-2	West Ham

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Liverpool 'make enquiry over Fulham's Antonee Robinson'
Liverpool have reportedly contacted Fulham over a potential deal to sign Antonee Robinson.

The Reds are currently light on options in the left-back area following injuries to Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas.

Robertson has been out of action since October after dislocating his shoulder in Scotland's meeting with Spain in Euro 2024 qualifying.

The Scotsman's absence presented Tsimikas with a regular run in the Liverpool side, but he has now joined Robertson on the sidelines.

Tsimikas, a Greece international, broke his collarbone following a collision with Bukayo Saka in last Saturday's draw with Arsenal.

As a result of the injury, Klopp was forced to start Joe Gomez on the left side of defence for Tuesday's 2-0 win over Burnley.

While Liverpool are hopeful that Robertson will return to action next month, they are believed to be considering whether to bring in reinforcements in the new year.

According to 90min, the Reds have made contact with Fulham after identifying Robinson as a potential transfer target.

The report claims that Liverpool have reached out to the West London club to enquire about Robinson's availability ahead of the winter window.

With Robinson said to be open to the move, Liverpool are currently looking into the viability of a possible January transfer.

From Fulham's perspective, they are under no obvious pressure to sell, with the player's contract set to run until June 2028.

The USA international is regarded as a key player in Marco Silva's side, having started 18 of the club's 19 Premier League games this season.

In total, the 26-year-old has made 128 competitive appearances since joining the Cottagers from Wigan Athletic in 2020.

If Liverpool decide against signing a new left-back, they could opt to recall 21-year-old youngster Owen Beck from his loan spell with Scottish Premiership side Dundee.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/liverpool/transfer-talk/news/liverpool-make-enquiry-over-fulhams-antonee-robinson_532285.html?newsnow

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Sources close to 22-year-old Fulham target expect him to leave his current club in January
A source close to Fulham transfer target Andre Trindade expects the Brazilian international to leave his current club Fluminense in January.

Andre has been linked with Fulham for some time and the club have been scouting him for months.

A report from The Athletic has shared more information on Fulham's potential business in the upcoming transfer window.

After three disappointing defeats in the league, Marco Silva might be hoping for a few new recruits in January.

Their poor form can't be completely blamed on Raul Jimenez's sending-off against Newcastle, but his absence combined with Willian's recent injury has left Fulham bereft of ideas in attack.

They also look exhausted in midfield and Silva's unwillingness to rotate Joao Palhinha, Tom Cairney and Andreas Pereira looks to be costing them.

Fulham are very keen to sign Andre Trindade in January to improve their options and a source close to the player suggests he'll be off next month.

Other clubs such as Liverpool are keen on the 22-year-old too and so Fulham have to act quickly to bring in their main target.

Not only that, they have to make sure that some of the club's most important players aren't poached by other clubs.

Source says Fulham target Andre will move in January
The report from The Athletic says that 'A source close to Andre, speaking on condition of anonymity like all those consulted for this piece due to the confidential nature of discussions, expects he will leave in January.'

They go on to say that Fulham face 'strong competition' for the Brazilian international which is no surprise given his quality and potential.

Arguably even more important than signing Andre next month is keeping Joao Palhinha at Fulham.

His form has suffered in recent games but he's still Fulham's most important outfield player right now.

Bernd Leno is also essential to Fulham's success but he too will be disappointed with his recent performances, particularly the first goal Bournemouth scored on Boxing Day.

Fulham will hope that Andre can fix the source of some of their problems if he arrives in January.

Alongside Palhinha they'd create a formidable partnership but Silva needs to convince the Portuguese that his long-term future should be at Craven Cottage.



https://www.fulham.news/2023/12/28/sources-close-to-22-year-old-fulham-target-expect-him-to-leave-his-current-club-in-january/

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Why Liverpool shouldn't pursue Fulham's Antonee Robinson amid transfer speculation
Liverpool are reportedly not interested in signing Fulham defender Antonee Robinson, despite suggestions to the contrary.

Jurgen Klopp is currently without Andrew Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas due to injury, but the Reds aren't planning on signing a new left-back in January, according to the Liverpool ECHO.

The report states that Robinson is not a transfer target, especially considering Robertson is expected to return to full fitness by the end of January.

It comes after 90min revealed that Liverpool had identified the American international as a possible target following Tsimikas' collarbone injury. As per 90min, Liverpool have reached out to Fulham in a bid to discuss a move for Robinson.

However, this report has been shut down by the ECHO, who believe that a new left-back won't be arriving at Anfield next month. Joe Gomez deputised in that role against Burnley and also impressed off the bench versus Arsenal.

Why Liverpool were right to avoid signing Antonee Robinson
Although Robinson certainly shares traits with Robertson, given his similarly-dangerous overlapping runs and boundless energy, the Fulham man is not Liverpool quality.

Pep Guardiola is a known admirer, but the USMNT star is playing at the correct level as things stand and Fulham would likely demand more than his Estimated Transfer Value of €31.4 million.

Furthermore, Robinson isn't particularly suited to joining Liverpool. In fact, Klopp's side rank as his 56th best option, according to data analytics experts SciSports.

SciSports' Career Advice tool takes into account several different factors - including potential development and playing time - to determine which club best suits any given player.

Antonee Robinson's best transfer destinations

Club	Club Fit Score
1. West Ham	81
2. Fulham	78
3. Leicester	75
4. Freiburg	75
= Galatasaray	75
56. Liverpool	66

For Robinson, West Ham United would be his ideal next move as their score of 81 is the best of any club, while staying at Fulham ranks second (78). Leicester City, Freiburg and Galatasaray complete the top five.

On the other hand, Liverpool are down in 56th place thanks to their Club Fit Score of just 66. Therefore, deciding against pursuing Robinson was a smart move by the Reds.

The fact that Robertson is on the verge of returning to action has likely played a part in Liverpool's low score as Robinson would soon become a back-up option at Anfield.



https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/tag/newsnow-features-only/liverpool-transfer-news-antonee-robinson-fulham

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Fulham man eyed: Every player linked with QPR ahead of the January transfer window
QPR have the chance to bolster their ranks in the upcoming January transfer window.

QPR are currently sat in 22nd place in the Championship table and are five points from safety.

Marti Cifuentes will be eager to put his own stamp on the squad next month to boost their survival hopes.

Here is a look at the players who have been linked with the London outfit this winter...

Tim Iroegbunam
According to The Sunday Mirror reporter Darren Witcoop on X, QPR are interested in bringing the Aston Villa midfielder back in January. The 20-year-old, who is a former England youth interantional, spent last season on loan with the Hoops and made 32 appearances in all competitions, chipping in with two goaos.

He returned to Villa Park at the end of the last campaign and has played twice for Unai Emery's side this term. They have a decision to make on what to do with him next.

Rodrigo Muniz
The R's are keen on landing the Fulham striker along with Bristol City, according to a report by TEAMtalk. However, Middlesbrough are not believed to be in the frame to land him despite him spending time on loan with them earlier this year under Michael Carrick.

Muniz, 22, moved to Craven Cottage in 2021 from Flamengo and they were promoted to the Premier League in his first season in London. He isn't guaranteed regular football with the Whites anymore though and an exit wouldn't be a surprise.

CJ Hamilton
QPR have been linked with a swoop for the Blackpool winger along with fellow second tier outfit Huddersfield Town and League One promotion contenders Derby County in a report by Football Insider.

Hamilton has recently been handed a new deal by the Tangerines running until 2026.



https://the72.co.uk/2023/12/28/fulham-man-eyed-every-player-linked-with-qpr-ahead-of-the-january-transfer-window/

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Fulham and West Ham make contact to sign same player – Agent confirms PL interest, January move desired
Fulham and West Ham United are in the picture to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers' Saša Kalajdžić, according to Sport1.

The striker arrived at Molineux from VfB Stuttgart in 2022 and suffered a serious knee injury on his debut for Wolves, forcing him to spend most o|

f the previous season on the sidelines.

He regained full fitness but has struggled to have a prominent role under Gary O'Neil's orders. The 26-year-old has been restricted to 282 minutes of action from 13 games this season.

Sport1 state Wolves are thinking about sending the Austria international out on loan next month and this seems to have caught the attention of Fulham and West Ham.

It's claimed several Bundesliga and Premier League sides have already made contact about the frontman. The report doesn't specify if the contact was made with his camp, Wolves or both.
Eintracht Frankfurt are in the market for a new striker and Sport1 suggest Kalajdžić could be an option for them. Stuttgart may also consider him, if Serhou Guirassy were to leave them in January.

The Wolves player is looking for a club that can offer him more game time, to improve his chances of representing Austria at the Euros next summer.

Kalajdžić's agent Sasa Empacher has told Peter Linden that clubs in England and Germany have approached him.

"He didn't play much, but his two goals brought six points, without which Wolverhampton would be just above the relegation zone," he said.

"He has worked hard, is fitter than ever before, there are people interested in him. Both in the Premier League and in the Bundesliga!"

Empacher hasn't provided details of the Premier League sides and with Sport1 mentioning Fulham and West Ham, it may be the two London clubs who have expressed interest in the Wolves attacker.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-west-ham-make-contact-sign-player-agent-confirms-pl-interest-january-move-desired/

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Andre holds positive talks with Fulham boss Marco Silva as Joao Palhinha looks set to stay
Andre remains poised for a January departure from Fluminense, with Fulham actively involved and leading the race, FootballTransfers understands.

Despite substantial groundwork, an agreement for the midfielder is yet to materialise. Having concluded his season in the Brazilian Serie A, we understand Andre is optimistic about securing a move to the Premier League next month.

While sources refute the existence of a prearranged deal for the 22-year-old, there is an indication that the West London club are the favourites for his signature. Notably, Andre has spoken with Fulham boss Marco Silva and is encouraged by the project presented.

Although Manchester United inquired about Andre's availability, as previously reported, any potential move from them is contingent on Casemiro making a winter switch rather than one in the summer. Liverpool, previously linked to Andre, concluded their interest before the close of the summer transfer window and have not made another approach.

West Ham expressed admiration for Andre, sending a proposal six months ago. There is no indication yet of a renewed approach from them either.

Will Joao Palhinha leave Fulham this window?
Meanwhile, sources indicate that Joao Palhinha is likely to remain with his current club until the summer, with early indications suggesting that no club is willing to meet Fulham's financial demands.

Liverpool have expressed no interest since the last window closed, deeming their midfield sufficiently reinforced, and there have been no concrete inquiries from other clubs regarding Palhinha. Speculation surrounding a winter transfer for the 28-year-old appears to stem from the player's side more than anything.

Andre is likely to be a replacement for Sasa Lukic, who is available for a loan deal, rather than Palhinha. The Serbian has played just 385 minutes of Premier League football so far this season.



https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/tag/exclusive-newsnow/fulham-transfer-news-andre-held-positive-talks-with-fulham-boss-marco-silva-as-joao-palhinha-now-looks-set-to-stay

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Alex Iwobi admits he's been seriously impressed by 18-year-old Fulham youngster in training
Fulham star Alex Iwobi has admitted that he's been really impressed with youngster Luke Harris in training this season.

Alex Iwobi's arrival from Everton last summer has been a real success, with the Nigerian international performing very well in several different roles under Marco Silva this season.

Alongside defender Calvin Bassey, Iwobi was bizarrely comparing his Fulham teammate to different parts of a Christmas dinner on the club's YouTube channel.

Fulham have made a habit in recent years of developing some fantastic young talent and then failing to keep them at the club.

Ryan Sessegnon is the last academy product to have a prolonged stint with the senior team although his time at Tottenham hasn't gone to plan.

Fans have watched Matt O'Riley and Harvey Elliott thrive away from Craven Cottage, while Fabio Carvalho has been linked with a return to Fulham given the disastrous first 18 months he's spent at Liverpool.

The Portuguese did at least play a starring role for Fulham for a full Championship campaign, but he should have stuck around rather than heading to Anfield when his contract expires.

Luke Harris could be the next youngster to break through at Fulham and Alex Iwobi has suggested the 18-year-old is brilliant in training.

The Welsh Under-21 international has only featured once in the Premier League this season, coming off the bench against Manchester City.

He needs more senior minutes to continue his development and they might have to come away from the club in the second half of the season.

Iwobi raves about Harris in training
The pair were comparing players to part of a Christmas dinner and Iwobi commented on Harris: "He's not always there, but when he is there, you like him.

"Especially in training, I like him, he's hard in training, he's very good in training."

A report from The Athletic suggests that Harris was supposed to go on loan to Exeter in the summer, but the move collapsed.

They suggest it's likely he leaves in January on loan which will be the best scenario for all parties as his first-team opportunities at Fulham are going to be limited unless there's a serious injury crisis.

It's encouraging that Iwobi and his teammates have been impressed with Harris in training.

If he can compete with the likes of Joao Palhinha and Willian behind the scenes, then it won't be long until he's ready to appear in the Premier League more regularly.

More importantly, Harris signed a contract extension in March that will see him stay at the club until 2026.

After watching so many talented players leave the club for next to no money, Fulham appear to have finally learned from their mistakes with the 18-year-old.



https://www.fulham.news/2023/12/28/alex-iwobi-admits-hes-been-seriously-impressed-by-18-year-old-fulham-youngster-in-training/

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Liverpool not interested in signing Antonee Robinson

Liverpool have been linked with a move for 26-year-old Fulham defender Antonee Robinson, but a move is not on the cards.
Antonee Robinson has done well in the Premier League and he was linked with a move to Anfield in recent weeks. However, a report from Liverpool Echo has claimed that Liverpool are not interested in signing the 26-year-old anytime soon.

Liverpool's Need for a Left-Back
Liverpool need to bring in a quality left-back in January, especially with Andrew Robertson sidelined with a shoulder injury. Meanwhile, Kostas Tsimikas broke his collarbone against Arsenal, and the Reds are now left without a specialist full-back.

Jurgen Klopp used Joe Gomez as the left-back recently. But the Englishman is more suited to a central role. As a result, recent reports have claimed that Liverpool would pursue a left-back in January, with Antonee Robinson being linked.

The Reds have been linked with left-footed central defenders as well who are capable of slotting into the left-back position. Players like Goncalo Inacio are reportedly on their radar.  It is no secret that Liverpool need to bring in defensive reinforcements, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops.

The Antonee Robinson Links
Antonee Robinson has certainly proven his quality in the Premier League, and he could have been a useful addition to the Liverpool defence. The 26-year-old Fulham defender would have been attracted to the idea of playing for Liverpool, and it would have been a major step up in his career.

Liverpool have made an impressive start to the current campaign, and they are on top of the league table. They will be hoping to stay there until the end of the season but need to bring in the right reinforcements to sustain their current run of form.

Signing a quality defender should be a top priority for them in January. In addition, a defensive midfielder could also make a huge difference during the second half of the campaign. Ideally, Liverpool should look to sign a versatile centre-back who can operate as a left-back. Joel Matip is sidelined for the remainder of the season, and a versatile central defender would be able to cover for him as well.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/12/28/liverpool-not-interested-in-signing-antonee-robinson/

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League Cup Semi-Final Tickets

Ticket information is now available for Fulham's Carabao Cup Semi-Final against Liverpool.

Away Leg – Anfield, Wednesday 10th January 2024, kick-off 8pm

Marco Silva's side will travel to Anfield for the first leg of the Carabao Cup Semi-Final, with the Whites provided an away allocation of up to 3,868.

AGE CATEGORY	TIER 6 PRICE	TIER 7 PRICE	TIER 8 PRICE	TIER 9 PRICE
ADULT	£35	£34	£33	£32
SENIOR 65+	£26.25	£25.50	£24.75	£24
YOUNG ADULT 17-21	17.50	£17	£16.50	£16
JUNIOR 16 & UNDER*	£5	£5	£5	£5

*Junior tickets must be sold with an accompanying adult (ages 18 & over) and will be refused entry to the stadium if attending alone.
Tickets will go on sale from 10am Friday 29th December, initially to 2023/24 Season Ticket Holders, before tickets become available to 2023/24 Members and – subject to availability – supporters with a previous booking history.

To be eligible to purchase during the Members' priority window, 2023/24 Membership must have been purchased by Tuesday 19th December 2023.

All supporters will be able to purchase up to two tickets per person and full selling details can be found here.

Supporters are advised that we are going on sale ahead of receiving the physical tickets from Liverpool. Fans that purchase their tickets in the first ticket window will receive their tickets via Royal Mail First Class post once the Fulham FC Ticket Office have received them.

Home Leg – Craven Cottage, Wednesday 24th January 2024, kick-off 8pm

Craven Cottage hosts the second leg of Fulham's Semi-Final, with Season Ticket Holders having an exclusive period to purchase their existing Season Ticket seat from 10am on Tuesday 2nd January.

AGE CATEGORY	JOHNNY HAYNES, PUTNEY & HAMMERSMITH END	RIVERSIDE STAND
ADULT	£40	£50
65 & OVER	£25	£30
18-21	£25	£30
17 & UNDER	£5	£10

Supporters are advised to note the following selling schedule is in place for this match:

RELEASE DATE	DETAILS
Tuesday 2nd January, 10am	On sale to 2023/24 Season Ticket Holders to buy their own seat – 1 per person Seat hold deadline: 5pm, Wednesday 3rd January
Thursday 4th January, 10am	Back on sale to all STH - can now buy up to a max. number of 2 tickets per person On sale to 2023/24 Members who purchased for any one of the earlier rounds of the Carabao Cup this season - up to 2 tickets per person
Friday 5th January, 10am	On sale to Members with a previous booking history - up to 2 tickets per person
Monday 8th January, 10am	On sale to all Members* - up to 2 tickets per person
Tuesday 9th January, 10am	On sale to fans with Previous Booking History - 2 tickets per person

*2023/24 Membership must have been purchased by Tuesday 19th December 2023 for supporters to qualify to purchase during the Members' priority window.

Full Home Leg selling details can be found here.

How to Buy

Tickets for both legs will be available to purchase online at tickets.fulhamfc.com or from the Fulham FC Ticket Office, in person or by phone on 0203 871 0810. 

Please note the Fulham FC Ticket Office will be operating festive hours until Tuesday 2nd January 2024, and is closed on Saturday 30th December 2023 and Monday 1st January 2024. Online sales are available any time.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/december/28/league-cup-semi-final-tickets/

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Monterrey make Vinicius move
Monterrey have made an initial approach to sign Fulham forward Carlos Vinicius, according to a report running on Sky Sports News.

The Mexican outfit have watched the Brazilian striker over the past few months but will need to see off interest from a couple of unnamed Spanish sides in order to secure the 28 year-old's signature. Vinicius, who has scored seven goals in 48 games for Fulham, has only featured as a bit-part player for Marco Silva this season despite the summer departure of Aleksandar Mitrovic for Saudi Arabia.

The former Tottenham striker, who famously scored the winning goal when the Whites beat Chelsea last January, has another two years to run on his Craven Cottage contract. It remains to be seen whether the Cottagers will be willing to sell this winter – even though Silva has made the signing of a new striker a priority for the forthcoming transfer window.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/12/monterrey-make-vinicius-move/

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Journalist names Fulham transfer debacle as "craziest moment of the year" – "Whole world" assumed it would happen
Joao Palhinha's failed move from Fulham to Bayern Munich on deadline day of the summer transfer window was the "craziest moment of the year".

That's according to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, who says the "whole world" assumed that the move would go through at the time.

Palhinha was on the verge of joining Bayern on the final day of the summer transfer window as the German giants moved at the last minute to get the number six that manager Thomas Tuchel has long wanted.

A deal looked like being completed as Palhinha was pictured in Munich undergoing a medical at the club's facilities and even taking part in the standard promotional photoshoot with the club's shirt and sponsors.

However, the move was cancelled at the last minute as Fulham refused to sanction the deal as they couldn't source a replacement for their star man in the final hours of the window.

That naturally led to a lot of disappointment and even tears, but for Plettenberg and his team covering the Fulham man's move, it was sheer disbelief.

"The whole world assumed that the deal would go through," he said.

"But it didn't happen and fortunately we haven't reported a 'done deal' yet. We got the information in the live broadcast that the transfer was off the table.

"That was a crazy moment when I just think about the faces of Wolff Fuss and Didi Hamann- for me it was definitely the craziest moment this year."



http://sportwitness.co.uk/journalist-names-fulham-transfer-debacle-craziest-moment-year-whole-world-assumed-happen/

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Atletico Mineiro make Muniz bid
Fulham are considering a formal offer from Atletico Mineiro for striker Rodrigo Muniz, according to Sky Sports News.

The Brazilian club made a concerted effort to bring the Brazilian forward back to his homeland in the summer but the 22 year-old was persuaded to remain in London by his family. Atletico's August offer was understood to be around £4.3m, which was some way short of the Cottagers' £7m valuation. But Brazilian press reports claim that Atletico – and other Brazilian clubs – had received encouragement to revive their interest ahead of the January transfer window.

Muniz, who has scored six times in 40 appearances since moving to Craven Cottage from Flamengo in August 2021, started Fulham's last three fixtures after Raul Jimenez was sent off at Newcastle United earlier this month. He has scored just a single goal this season, which came in the League Cup at Ipswich Town, and could be sold as Marco Silva prepares to bring in at least one new striker during the January window.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/12/atletico-mineiro-make-muniz-bid/

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Contact made: £50k-p/w colossus is open to potential January move to Liverpool – report
Liverpool have reportedly made contact with Fulham over a possible January move for Antonee Robinson.

According to 90min, the Reds have set the wheels in motion regarding a potential mid-season swoop for the USA international to help ease their injury crisis at left-back, with Kostas Tsimikas and Andy Robertson both currently sidelined.

Despite the 26-year-old only signing a new contract at Craven Cottage last summer, he's understood to be open to swapping west London for Merseyside, with Jurgen Klopp's side hopeful of striking an agreement with the Cottagers.

Liverpool fans got a firsthand glimpse at what Robinson could bring to the team when he gave an excellent performance in Fulham's 4-3 defeat at Anfield at the start of December.

Aside from providing the assist for Harry Wilson's first-half equaliser, he won seven duels and four tackles, along with racking up a mammoth total of 13 interceptions (Sofascore).

Nicknamed 'Jedi' (US Soccer), the force has been with the Star Wars addict in terms of his creative output in recent weeks, with no fewer than four assists for Marco Silva's team since the start of November – one more than Tsimikas and Robertson have put together all season (Transfermarkt).

Liverpool would need to stump up a decent offer to persuade Fulham to part with the £50,000-per-week defender, and we know that FSG tend not to pay more for transfers than what they believe a player is worth.

Nonetheless, with Robinson reportedly open to a move to Anfield, and the Reds making do with the versatile Joe Gomez impressing at left-back, this may be the perfect opportunity to strike for a player who tormented us in a Fulham shirt just three-and-a-half weeks ago.



https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/28/robinson-open-liverpool-transfer-january/

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Fulham's five lowest moments of 2023

Jack Stroudley looks back at Fulham's year and reminds us of the moments we all wanted to forget.

It wouldn't be the festive period without someone reminding you of the doom and gloom in the world. As a whole, it's been quite a successful year for Fulham with a top half finish and a couple of good cup runs – there's certainly been lots to be excited about. However, it's not been all sunshine and rainbows and while George Rossiter will run you through the best of 2023 later this week, I'm here to look more at the troughs than the peaks.

5. The current run

It's obvious that throughout a season you're going to go through tricky periods and while I hear the cries of 'cut the team some slack we won two games 5-0 earlier this month' we've got to include five things on the list and this feels like a good starting point. It's true, we've had some very high moments this month with those previously mentioned wins and a Carabao Cup Semi Final secured, which is what makes this sudden downturn in form all the more worrying.

Fulham have failed to score in their last three games, have looked pretty poor throughout and with the likes of Luton and Burnley seeming to have upturns in form some fans are beginning to grow concerned we need to start looking over our shoulder. I think we'll be fine (albeit with a good winter window) but these last few games certainly have raised question marks.

4. Derby day dismantling

The 2022/23 season saw us pick up a fair share of points in the West London derbies with three points against Brentford and four against Chelsea including that infamous night at the cottage. However, half way through the season with both home fixtures played, Fulham have been taken to the sword by both of our neighbours.

In our first home game of the season, Fulham looked lost and devoid of ideas against an Ivan Toney-less Brentford. Did Tim Ream deserve to be sent off? Probably not and that may have turned the tide in Thomas Frank's side favour, but Fulham looked really flat and we once again allowed our bogey team to have bragging rights, amazingly that still wasn't the worst thing to happen to Fulham on 19 August 2023, as Mitro departed later that day.

In October, we once again met a Chelsea side who were in a rut of bad form with just one win from the opening six. Fulham fans were hopeful we could get another famous result over Mauricio Pochettino's side. That wasn't to be with yet another poor display in a local derby. Goals in quick succession from Mudryk and Broja kicked the stuffing out of Fulham in the opening twenty minutes and we never recovered.

3. Ticket prices

It would feel wrong to talk about the negative points at Fulham and not mention the hikes in ticket prices, alongside the naivety shown by board members to ignore the fan base's opinions. In the summer, Fulham announced an 18% rise in season ticket pricing on average alongside a £3,000 season ticket in the new Riverside Stand. There were rumblings of discontent throughout the fanbase which boiled over once Manchester United tickets were announced with some tickets going for £160.

A protest ensued with yellow cards shown in the 18th minute demanding the board not to continue to price Fulham fans out. Just before Christmas, Alistair Mackintosh questioned whether the FST was representative of the whole fanbase and continued to defend the club's decision for the rise in prices.

2. Mitrovic to Saudi Arabia

Following the return from his suspension, Aleksandar Mitrovic was greeted in Southampton with a plethora of Serbian flags and adoring fans welcoming him back to the side. He rewarded Fulham fans with a goal on the coast alongside a brace in our final home game against Crystal Palace. 'Freed from Desire' played over the tannoy during the end of season walk around the pitch with all four stands joining in unison to sing 'Mitro's on fire' little did we know that would be the last league appearance he would make at Craven Cottage.

Saudi Arabian links started to get thrown around on Twitter with Fulham fans collectively laughing them off thinking that Mitrovic wouldn't have his head turned... how wrong we were. The Serbian striker made it abundantly clear from an early stage that he wanted to move and would do anything in his power to move, including a refusal to play for the club again. Eventually on 19 August, a move to Al-Hilal was confirmed ending a saga which has left a bitter taste with Fulham fans. A true legend of the club with a far-from-fairytale ending.

1. Three reds in a minute

I don't know if I'll ever get over this. Following Fulham's 2-0 win over Leeds to secure a quarter-final place which saw the likes of Grimsby Town, Sheffield United and Blackburn Rovers still in the competition, a place at Wembley felt within touching distance... until we got our annual away trip to Manchester.

Nevertheless, we went to Old Trafford with confidence as Casemiro was suspended for Manchester United and we had every right to be. Fulham bossed Erik ten Hag's side during the first half and were rewarded for their dominance five minutes into the second half when Mitrovic got on the end of a set-piece to give Fulham the lead.

Despite being 1-0 up, Fulham continued on the front-foot and were denied a second thanks to a magnificent David De Gea save. We were in control and a dream of a semi-final was getting closer and closer – until the 72nd minute.

Manchester United broke on the counter with Jadon Sancho eventually having a free shot into an open net, Willian blocked the shot for a corner. Initially I remember celebrating the block like we'd scored until I realised he'd used his hand to clear it. Red card number one. Marco Silva then made his feelings known with Fulham denied a penalty in the first-half following a push from Luke Shaw – red card number two. Then the most memorable of the three came with Mitrovic completely lost his head and made his feelings known to referee Chris Kavanagh... red card number three, and a subsequent eight-match ban.

Manchester United went on the win the game 3-1 and Mitro's ban then seemed to derail our season and our outside shot of European football. Oh, what could've been.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-12-28-fulhams-five-lowest-moments-of-2023/

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Sunderland sizing up winter swoop for 7-goal striker on loan in the Championship
Sunderland are looking to make a move for Fulham striker Jay Stansfield in January, says Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

Sunderland currently sit 6th in the table in the Championship, only one goal ahead of Hull City in 7th. The Black Cats have relied on the 11 goals from winger Jack Clarke to help them maintain their play-off chase.

Jobe Bellingham has weighed in with four goals from his attacking midfield role, as has Daniel Neil from his defensive midfield position.

However, since the loss of striker Ross Stewart, Sunderland haven't replaced him with a like-for-like signing. Younger strikers haven't been able to step up yet, meaning the winter addition of a new talisman is a must.

Now, news of interest in Fulham man Stansfield has emerged from Sky Sports' Keith Downie. He states that the 21-year-old is among Sunderland's winter transfer targets and his season-long loan with Championship rivals Birmingham City could be brought to a premature end.

Ipswich Town interest is also mentioned. That was first reported by the EADT earlier this month.

A solid fit for Sunderland?
Sunderland tried for Stansfield during the summer transfer window, with the striker hinting he chose Birmingham City over the Black Cats due to its relative closeness to his London home.

Sunderland do need a frontline striker, the absence of goals from that position is abundantly clear. The question is, would Stansfield be the answer to their problem in that position?

His time at Birmingham City on loan has seen the 21-year-old score seven goals and register two assists in 21 Championship appearances. The bulk of these appearances have seen him start the game up top for the Blues.

The Black Cats play a much more expansive and free-flowing game than do Birmingham City. With Stansfield up front feeding off the likes of Bellingham and Clarke, you would expect him be scoring regularly.

Even though Downie says in a follow-up post that Stansfield 'has not been prioritised by Sunderland' as of yet, there is little doubt he'd be a solid January signing if it comes off.



https://the72.co.uk/2023/12/28/sunderland-sizing-up-winter-swoop-for-7-goal-striker-on-loan-in-the-championship/

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Fulham enter talks to sell "dangerous" player to PL rivals in January
The Cottagers have begun negotiations as they consider losing one of their most prized assets.

Fulham are in talks to sell one of their regular features to a rival in the Premier League in January, according to a fresh report.

Fulham exit rumours
Over the summer, Joao Palhinha was close to completing a move to Bayern Munich having even travelled to undergo his medical, and despite a deal collapsing late on deadline day, it's believed that his admirers are considering another approach in the coming weeks.

Since then, Willian has also been linked with a departure because he is being monitored by a number of clubs in both the MLS and Saudi Arabia, but if the following update is to be believed, he might not be the only one who is soon heading for the exit door.

Back in 2020, Antonee Robinson first joined the club from Wigan Athletic and the left-back has gone on to become an integral member of the senior squad, making 128 appearances over his three, almost four years at Craven Cottage (Transfermarkt - Robinson statistics).

The USA international has firmly established himself as Marco Silva's overall second-best-performing player so far this season with a match rating of 6.97 (WhoScored - Fulham statistics), and the 26-year-old's impressive form has caught the eye on Merseyside.

Fulham receive approach for Robinson
According to 90min, Fulham have received an enquiry for Robinson from Liverpool, and it's believed that the two parties are now in negotiations to discuss a switch due to the player being keen to move onto new pastures in January.

"Liverpool have reached out to Fulham to discuss a deal for left-back Antonee Robinson in the January transfer window, 90min understands. Sources have confirmed to 90min that Robinson is open to moving to Anfield and Liverpool are now working in the hope of striking an agreement with Fulham."

Silva needs to keep "dangerous" Robinson
Being a left-back, Robinson is strong in the natural defensive aspect of his game which he's proven this season because he's currently averaging 2.7 interceptions, 2.6 tackles and the exact same number of clearances per top-flight game (WhoScored - Robinson statistics).

The Milton Keynes-born talent is also capable of bursting down the flank to make a positive impact at the opposite end of the pitch where he's recorded 61 crosses since the start of the term which is the second-highest total throughout his squad (FBRef - Fulham statistics).

Silva's left-footed ace has been able to turn these chances into the end product over the course of his time in the capital having racked up 12 contributions, nine assists and three goals, for the Cottagers, so he appears to be an extremely well-rounded player.

As described by Josh Bunting, Robinson can be "dangerous" on the break when working with his attacking counterpart Willian higher up the pitch, so the thought of losing him is a huge blow, so the club should decide to retain his services beyond January.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-enter-talks-to-sell-dangerous-antonee-robinson-to-liverpool-in-january/

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Fulham, West Ham United submit enquiry for Sasa Kalajdzic

Fulham and West Ham United are reportedly keen on signing the Austrian attacker Sasa Kalajdzic.
The 26-year-old has done reasonably well for Wolverhampton Wanderers and it remains to be seen whether the two London clubs can convince the Molineux outfit to sell the player in January. Sport1 claims the two clubs have made an enquiry for him.

It is no secret that Fulham need to bring in attacking reinforcements next month, and the 26-year-old could prove to be a useful acquisition. They have not been able to score goals consistently and it will be interesting to see if Kalajdzic can help them improve in the final third.

He is versatile enough to operate anywhere across the front three and he will add more cutting edge in the final third.

Meanwhile, West Ham United need more quality in the attack as well. Although they have improved with the addition of Mohammed Kudus, they need a reliable goalscorer to lead the line for them. Kalajdzic could prove to be a useful acquisition for them, but the Austrian is not a prolific goalscorer. It remains to be seen whether the Hammers decide to make a move for him in the coming weeks.

The 26-year-old attacker has three goals across all competitions for Wolves this season.

The opportunity to join a club like West Ham will certainly be an attractive proposition for the 26-year-old attack. The Hammers are competing in the UEFA Europa League and they will want to go all the way in the tournament. They managed to win the UEFA Europa Conference League last year. Joining them would be a step up in the 26-year-old's career.

West Ham have done quite well in the Premier League recently and they will be hoping to push for Europa League qualification. They need to plug the gaps in their squad in order to finish the season strongly. It will be interesting to see if they can bring in the right reinforcements over the next few weeks.

The Austrian has a contract with Wolves until the summer of 2027 and the Molineux outfit are under no pressure to sell him for cheap. It will be interesting to see if they demand a premium for him in the coming weeks.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/12/29/fulham-west-ham-united-submit-enquiry-for-sasa-kalajdzic/