Saturday Fulham Stuff - 30/12/23...

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Liverpool can use forgotten wonderkid to seal January deal for Pep Guardiola target
Liverpool have been linked with a January move for Fulham full-back Antonee Robinson.

Liverpool are poised to dip into the January transfer market for defensive reinforcements, as Jurgen Klopp bids to keep the Reds at the top of the Premier League table.

In recent weeks the Merseyside club have been dealt setback after setback, losing central defender Joel Matip before Greek international Kostas Tsimikas was felled against Arsenal and suffered a broken collar bone.

Tsimikas, who was already filling in for the injured Andy Robertson, is now in need of being replaced.

Recent reports point to a plan to bring in exciting Fulham youngster Antonee Robinson, who has emerged as a leading target for a host of European clubs.

With his dyamic displays, relentless work-rate and blistering pace, Robinson has caught the eye of Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, along with Liverpool chief Klopp.

And, according to 90min, Liverpool have 'reached out' to Fulham to discuss a move for Robinson in the upcoming transfer window.

The Reds are keen to learn the conditions of a deal and whether the United States international will be available if they do decide to act upon their interest.

Liverpool however hold a key advantage over rivals when it comes to the potential signing of Robinson, in the form of attacking midfielder Fabio Carvalho.

The Reds acquired the Portugal star in July of 2022, though opportunties fast became limited for the 21-year-old to claim a place in the Liverpool starting XI.

In the most recent summer transfer window, a deal was agreed to ship Carvalho out on loan to RB Leipzig; the Bundesliga side renowned for developing youth talent and providing big-game opportunity.

Alas, this has not materialised for the playmaker, with minutes on the field being handed out only sparingly.

With Liverpool reportedly set to recall Carvalho from Leipzig next month, Fulham are reportedly among the clubs willing to take the youngster on.

A return to Craven Cottage would not only provide the chance for Liverpool to get more Premier League football under the belt of their asset, but also potentially sweeten a deal to send Robinson to Anfield and bolster the defensive ranks.

Robinson is said to be 'open' to joining Liverpool, despite signing a five-year contract with Fulham earlier this year following an impressive few seasons at Craven Cottage. As a result, the Reds will now begin 'working on an agreement' with Marco Silva's side.

According to Transfermarkt, a fee in the region of £17million would test the resolve of Fulham in January, which is a fee not out of the grasp of Liverpool.

The Reds are keen to bring in at least one defender before the window ends to ensure that they have options heading into the latter stages of the season, with a left-sided centre-back also among the priorities following their failed pursuit of Chelsea star Levi Colwill in the summer transfer window.



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1849679/Liverpool-January-transfer-news-Antonee-Robinson

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West Ham plot intriguing loan raid for £16m PL striker as Liverpool 'make contact' ahead of Fulham swoop
All of the latest Premier League transfer speculation, including West Ham, Fulham, and Liverpool.

We begin Friday's Premier League transfer rumour round-up with news of a three-way striker tussle. According to Sport1, both Fulham and West Ham are considering bids for out-of-favour Wolves striker Saša Kalajdžić, with the towering striker having been reduced to just 282 minutes of first team action so far this season.

The Austrian signed for Wanderers from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth around £15.6 million last year, but suffered a serious knee injury early into his time in England, and has struggled to make a sustained impact on the first team picture at Molineux since. As such, he could be sent out on loan in January, with Bundesliga and Premier League sides, including Fulham and West Ham, reportedly making contact ahead of potential offers.

The 3AM Verdict: Kalajdžić is a player, but through a combination of bad luck and Wolves' wonderful form, chances to prove himself have been hard to come by. With that in mind, a loan could suit all parties concerned, and it is easy to see how he could do a job for either West Ham or Fulham. This is certainly one to keep an eye on in the coming weeks.




https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/west-ham/west-ham-plot-loan-raid-ps16m-pl-striker-liverpool-make-contact-ahead-fulham-swoop-4459795

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West Ham, Crystal Palace and Fulham keen on League One ace
West Ham, Crystal Palace and Fulham are interested in Port Vale youngster Liam Brazier, according to a report by The Sun.

The Premier League trio are all reportedly keeping tabs on the League One prospect.

Brazier, 16, is being tipped for a bright future in the game.

According to The Sun, West Ham, Crystal Palace and Fulham are all keen to lure him to the top flight. The likes of Brentford and AFC Bournemouth have also been mentioned as potential suitors, as well as the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, PSG, Marseille, Nice, Juventus, Benfica and Rangers.

Port Vale face battle
Port Vale face a real battle to keep hold of the teenager down the line and based on the list of clubs who are being linked with him, it appears he won't be short of options should he decide to leave the Football League.

Brazier has risen up through the academy ranks at Vale Park and has been a regular at various youth levels over recent years.

He was handed his first-team debut in September in an EFL Trophy clash against rivals Crewe Alexandra and has since gone on to play twice more for Andy Crosby's side.

However, he is still on scholarship terms at Port Vale and is yet to pen a professional deal which will open the door for other teams to swoop in.

For now though, Brazier will be focused on his development and his current team are sat in 16th position in the third tier table. They recently reached the quarter-final of the Carabao Cup but were beaten by Middlesbrough.

The Valiants are seven points above the drop zone and are back in action this evening at home to Blackpool.



https://the72.co.uk/2023/12/29/west-ham-crystal-palace-and-fulham-keen-on-league-one-ace/

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Tottenham should test the water with 'lowball offer' for Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo in January - Robinson
We're delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist as each week he'll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium...

Paul Robinson thinks Tottenham should try a "lowball offer" for Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo in the January transfer window.

Spurs have struggled at centre-back over the past two months with Micky van de Ven injured and Cristian Romero having served a suspension before now picking up a hamstring issue.

It has meant Emerson Royal and Ben Davies – full-backs by trade – have featured in central defence, with Eric Dier clearly not a part of Ange Postecoglou's plans either.

The Evening Standard reported (5 December) that Spurs remain interested in Adarabioyo, who they say has yet to enter talks over a new deal at Craven Cottage that expires in June.

Consequently, former Spurs goalkeeper Robinson told Tottenham News that Spurs should try and land a cut-price deal in an area they need to strengthen.

"Any move in January is difficult, with these contracts running out there's an opportunity there for Tottenham to put in a lowball offer and maybe nick a player who they could potentially get on a free in the summer," he said.

"It's an area they do need to strengthen, Romero every week we laugh about it, it's not a case of if it's a case of when he's suspended and how long he's suspended for.

"Van de Ven's injury has been a huge problem because of the quality he's provided this season, with Eric Dier coming in the manager doesn't trust him you can see that he doesn't.

"They've had Davies playing there, Emerson Royal playing there. We had a back four at the Etihad where it was full-backs all the way across the back four, so it is an area that Tottenham do need to look at.

"And I think he will address that in January and that's a player that if the manager likes him and the manager wants that type of player in his side then someone with only a few months on his contract, knows the Premier League, he's adapted to the Premier League, good ball player as well, you would expect it would fit the manager.

"We're not privy to what the manager wants, but conversations will have gone on at the football club already, targets will have been identified, but that type of player, that type of signing, especially in the centre-half position is what Spurs need."

Adarabioyo has played seven times in the Premier League for Fulham this season after undergoing groin surgery earlier in the campaign.

He's completed 90 minutes in each of the West London club's last five league games, scoring in the 5-0 win over West Ham on 10 December.



https://www.tottenhamhotspurnews.com/exclusives/tottenham-should-test-the-water-with-lowball-offer-for-fulham-defender-tosin-adarabioyo-in-january-robinson/

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Fulham facing fight to keep four key Silva men as Saudi club eyes another Cottage raid and Liverpool also lurk
Marco Silva faces a fight to keep hold of four of his first-team regulars at Fulham ahead of the upcoming January transfer window.

The situations around Joao Palhinha and Tosin Adarabioyo are well documented but now interest is growing in Andreas Pereira and Antonee Robinson.

Cottagers boss Silva does not want to lose either of those players and the Fulham ownership are happy to back the manager when it comes to keeping his squad together.

Saudi club Al-Ahli are considering a move for attacking midfielder Pereira, while Liverpool are being linked with left-back Robinson.

But both players are key to Silva's style of play and as such any offers for the players will be unwelcome.

Silva signed a new contract in October and part of the vision is to strengthen the squad across the next two transfer windows.

With star midfielder Palhinha being hunted by top teams in England and abroad, and striker Aleksandar Mitrovic still not replaced from last summer, this is a key time for the club – who also have a Carabao Cup semi-final with Liverpool to consider.

That is a historic event for Fulham, who have never made it to the League Cup Final, and sources are indicating that the loss of current first-team players is not likely.

Fulham keen to work on new deals in summer
Interestingly, deals for Pereira, Robinson and Palhinha will all be more feasible in the summer – when Fulham have proper time to replace and improve the squad.

But the main focus on incomings is currently around a new forward and midfielder – while they are also having to contemplate the defence with Adarabioyo's future in the air.

His contract is winding down and the current feeling is that he is keen to move if the right deal opens up.

The Cottagers will be back in action on Sunday when they host London rivals Arsenal in the Premier League, looking to end a run of three successive defeats.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/fulham-facing-fight-keep-four-key-silva-men-saudi-club-eyes-another-cottage-raid-liverpool-also-lurk

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Fulham vs Arsenal: Gunners boast strong record at Craven Cottage as they look reignite title challenge – kick-off time, team news and how to follow
Arsenal will look to bounce back against Fulham in a London derby this weekend to wrap up the Premier League's action for 2023.

The Gunners fell to a costly 2-0 defeat to London rivals West Ham in midweek that saw them surrender top spot to Liverpool.

However, with Jurgen Klopp's men not in action until New Year's Day, Arsenal can still end the year on top of the table with a victory.

Mikel Arteta's side are looking like strong contenders once again this season and a win against their London counterparts would maintain their confidence.

Marco Silva had his side playing some great football at the start of the month but three losses in a row have ruined their spirits heading into this one.

Fulham vs Arsenal: Conquering the Cottage
Arsenal have enjoyed trips to Craven Cottage in the last decade, not losing away at Fulham since January 2012.

The Gunners have won every game since then, returning to North London with three points in all of their last five meetings.

And in those games, they've scored a hatful of goals.

The last two fixtures between the two at the Cottage have ended 3-0 to Arsenal with first-half goals from Gabriel, Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard securing a win last season.

A 5-1 win in 2018 preceded that before a 3-1 win five years earlier followed a 1-0 win.

Arteta will be hoping his side can continue their incredible form on the road against Fulham as they look to continue their title challenge.


Here's how the two teams compare this season

Fulham vs Arsenal: Team news
Raul Jimenez will be back for Fulham this weekend after serving his three-game suspension for a straight red card.

Tim Ream and Adama Traore are also both in contention to make a comeback after recovering from their injuries.

Former Arsenal winger Willian will miss out though as he nurses a hamstring issue.

As for the Gunners, Kai Havertz is back available after serving his suspension for picking up his fifth yellow card of the season against Liverpool.

Fabio Vieira, Thomas Partey, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jurrien Timber remain out though, as they aim for a January return.

Aaron Ramsdale will be on the bench for what could be the final time should a move away from the Emirates be sorted early in the transfer window.

Fulham vs Arsenal: What has been said?
Arsenal are firm contenders for the Premier League title, but Micky Gray believes 'problem' Oleksandr Zinchenko could hinder their chances.

Speaking after the Gunners' draw with Liverpool, former full-back Gray told talkSPORT that he thinks Zinchenko could affect their chances of a first title in 20 years.

"I've got to be honest with you, and I've seen him not just this game and it was a huge game, I think he might cost Arsenal the Premier League," he told The Sunday Session.

"That's how big of a problem it is. That's not me criticising him saying he's a terrible player because he's not, he's played for Manchester City, been there done it before.

"He's certainly done it at Arsenal and it's quite hard to criticise him at times when you think over the last year-and-a-half what him and I suppose his family and everything have been through.

"But judging on football and what I've seen, I think he's a problem for Arsenal."

Fulham vs Arsenal: How to follow
This Premier League clash will take place on Sunday, December 31.

Kick-off at Craven Cottage is scheduled for 2pm.

The game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League.

talkSPORT will keep you up to date with all the latest build-up and reaction.



https://talksport.com/football/1692227/

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Arsenal XI vs Fulham: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for Premier League
The Gunners' injury woes are easing heading into January

Arsenal can welcome back Kai Havertz for Sunday's trip to Fulham.

The midfielder missed the Gunners' 2-0 defeat to West Ham on Thursday night due to suspension.

Before that, Havertz was the only player in the Arsenal squad to feature in every game this season and he should return to the team for Sunday's match at Craven Cottage.

Mikel Arteta will be without Jurrien Timber (knee) and Fabio Vieira (groin), but it remains to be seen if Takehiro Tomiyasu and Thomas Partey return.

Tomiyasu has been out since the start of this month due to a calf problem and Partey injured his thigh in October.

Both players are due to be away on international duty next month. Tomiyasu will be with Japan at the Asian Cup and Partey is set to play for Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Partey and Tomiyasu are hoping to play for Arsenal before they go away and Sunday is the penultimate chance for them to do so.

Arsenal play Liverpool in the FA Cup third round on January 7, but after that they do not play again until the 20th - by which time the Asian Cup and Africa Cup of Nations will have started.

Arsenal predicted XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Odegaard, Rice, Havertz; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli

Doubts: Takehiro Tomiyasu (calf), Thomas Partey (thigh) Injured: Timber (knee), Vieira (groin)

Arsenal squad from: Ramsdale, Raya, Hein; Gabriel, Cedric, Kiwior, Saliba, White, Zinchenko; Elneny, Havertz, Jorginho, Odegaard, Rice, Smith Rowe; Jesus, Martinelli, Nelson, Nketiah, Saka and Trossard

Time and date: 2pm on Sunday, December 31, 2023

Venue: Craven Cottage

TV channel: Sky Sports



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/arsenal-fc-xi-vs-fulham-predicted-lineup-confirmed-team-news-injury-latest-2023-premier-league-b1129445.html

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Fulham step up interest in Andre Trindade

Fulham will intensify the efforts to sign 22-year-old Fluminense midfielder Andre Trindade, a target for Liverpool, in January.
According to a report by Football Transfers, Andre Trindade is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are stepping up their efforts to sign the 22-year-old midfielder amid uncertainties surrounding the future of Joao Palhinha. Meanwhile, the Fluminense midfielder is also a target for Liverpool heading into the January transfer window.

Andre Trindade and His Rise in Stature
Andre Trindade has come leaps and bounds since breaking into the first-team squad at Fluminense. The Brazilian international is now a mainstay in the middle of the park for Tricolor Flu Fluzao while also breaking into his national team this year.

The 22-year-old enjoyed an excellent 2023 season with Fluminense, winning the Copa Libertadores. He turned out a whopping 62 times across all competitions, chipping in with one goal. Meanwhile, Andre's progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of many high-profile clubs.

Reports have linked the youngster with reigning La Liga champions Barcelona. But his next destination will likely be the Premier League, with the Fluminense midfielder eager to play in England. That is where Fulham and Liverpool come into the picture, although other bigwigs are also keen.

Fulham Liverpool Vying for the Signature of Andre Trindade
Liverpool considered securing Andre's services in the summer transfer window. But a move did not materialise as neither the player nor Fluminense wanted to part ways due to the continued participation in the Copa Libertadores. But with the season over, Liverpool can sign the 22-year-old, who can be a transformational signing at Anfield.

But the Reds face a losing battle to sign Andre, with Fulham leading the race to sign him. Recent reports have claimed that the Cottagers are closing in on landing the Brazilian international. And they are accelerating their move for the young midfielder to bring him on board at Craven Cottage next month.

A January move to the Premier League is seemingly on the cards for Andre. It will be interesting to see if Fulham can beat Liverpool and the other suitors to land the 22-year-old Brazilian midfielder.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/12/29/fulham-step-up-interest-in-andre-trindade/

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Sources: Ipswich Town open preliminary talks with Fulham over Jay Stansfield deal
Ipswich Town have opened preliminary talks with Fulham to sign on-loan star Jay Stansfield in January, sources have told Football Insider.

The striker has made a huge impact at Birmingham City this season since his loan move from the Cottagers last summer.

The Tractor Boys are hoping to agree a deal with Marco Silva's outfit that would see him prised from Wayne Rooney's struggling side for the second half of the campaign.

Fulham have the option to recall Stansfield from his loan at St Andrew's at the midway point and can then send him to a new club.

While the west Londoners are yet to come to a decision, they are open to the 21-year-old moving in winter.

Other Championship clubs have registered interest in Stansfield but Ipswich are hoping to steal a march on them through their talks with the Premier League side.

Fulham have no plans to bring the striker back into their squad in the new year.

Stansfield has been a rare standout for the 19th-place Blues this season after notching seven goals and two assists in the Championship.

He is a versatile attacker and has played all along the front line as well as in attacking midfield this season across 22 appearances in all competitions.

Ipswich have had remarkable success under manager Kieran McKenna, who has them vying for promotion to the Premier League after they left League One last season.

They currently sit second in the Championship after clinching a late point against league-leaders Leicester City and next face QPR on Friday evening (29 December).




https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-ipswich-town-open-preliminary-talks-with-fulham-over-jay-stansfield-deal/

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Fulham player 'analysing possibility' of January move – May wait for 'bigger offers'
The Brazilian media today shares a report on the future of Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira.

According to TNT Sports journalist Fred Caldeira, the player received an approach from Al-Ahli.

The outlet writes that the Saudi club are interested in his signing and could make an offer to get him from Fulham in the January transfer window.

Andreas himself is said to be analysing the possibility. TNT Sports claims his plans are to return to the national team and look for 'bigger offers' at the end of the season, so that may be a reason for him to say no.

The story doesn't make it clear how much Al-Ahli would offer for the midfielder, or even how much Fulham would demand for the transfer.

The Whites only spent €9.5m to sign him in 2022, and now see him valued by Transfermarkt at €20m. He's been an important player for Marco Silva this season, being on the pitch in every single match the club played in the Premier League, so it's hard to imagine them letting him leave easily in the middle of the season.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-player-analysing-possibility-january-move-may-wait-bigger-offers/

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Fulham confident over Andre transfer amid Serhou Guirassy interest and Joao Palhinha expectation
Marco Silva has several targets but keeping his star player is the priority

After the positive feeling that successive 5-0 victories over Nottingham Forest and West Ham had given Fulham, Marco Silva's side have now lost three straight matches in the Premier League without scoring.

Those defeats have not only left Fulham just six points above the relegation zone but also exposed areas they must strengthen in the transfer market.

Silva said he wanted five signings in the final week of the summer transfer window. Fulham only made three, and their ever-ambitious manager will hope the club re-enter the market to make up for lost time.

Top priority
Fulham are aware they possess one of the Premier League's best defensive midfielders in Joao Palhinha, and are resigned to the fact he will leave them one day.

In part to cover his eventual exit and in part for balance, Fulham should see central midfield as their priority.

Sasa Lukic and Harrison Reed are the other central midfielders at the club and have both partnered Palhinha at times this term, but Fulham could do with a fourth option.

What else they need
Right-wing is also a position Fulham should look to improve.

The signing of Adama Traore on a free transfer in the summer has not yet worked out due to his lingering hamstring injury.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Harry Wilson have shared the bulk of the game time on the right, with playmaker Alex Iwobi sometimes deployed there when not operating centrally.

Fulham could also do with another full-back. Timothy Castagne can play either side, but there are only Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson beyond that.




https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-andre-guirassy-palhinha-b1129508.html

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Pre-Arsenal Press Conference
Marco Silva opened up his pre-Arsenal press conference with the latest team news in a highly congested period of fixtures.

"Tim Ream and Adama (Traoré) for sure not (available).

"We've been assessing Willian, we expected him to be ready last match - the reality is that he wasn't and right now he's a doubt for the next game."

Someone who is back in the fold is the previously in-form Raúl Jiménez, who had scored three goals in the two games prior to getting sent off against Newcastle and subsequently suspended.

"He's really important for us no doubt," said our Head Coach.

"He was in a great moment before the red card that in my opinion was harsh – it is what it is.

"But he was in a very good moment like the team, we were scoring goals, we've missed Willian too.

"With both we are stronger and it's good to have Raúl back but with Willian we just don't know."

Arsenal have had a decent season so far and would've been top of the league if not for West Ham's victory at the Emirates on Thursday night. Silva's side have also taken points already from the Gunners this season with a 2-2 draw in August, so is wise to their threats.

"They are a really strong side, some weaknesses they have we'll try to explore.

"We have shown this season already that we can match them.

"Before the West Ham result it was just us and Tottenham to take points from Arsenal at home, which shows that we know how to match them and play against them and we know what to do.

"For sure we have to play at our best level because we can then compete with Arsenal."

January always spells speculation with the transfer window opening up again but, despite stories written, our Manager explained there's nothing to report on at the moment.

"I'm not even speaking with the board about it.

"Until now I can say to you 100% sure we haven't received anything, any approach about any player from our squad.

"We have full focus in the games and in these tough December fixtures.

"We are looking to strengthen the squad and not to lose important players."

With this London Derby concluding a positive year to be Fulham, Marco Silva summed up the last 12 months whilst exclaiming his excitement for the next chapter.

"It's going to be a great, great feeling for us to finish the year under the Cottage lights, to be with our fans.

"All year, we've shared so many great moments with them (fans), they should be proud of what we have been doing in 2023 and I know that they are, of course with some up and downs.

"Great season last one where we finished in a great position and reached a FA Cup Quarter-Final, and we are in a position this season where we can fight for good things like that again.

"Of course I want more, it's what I demand from everybody and from myself and we are going to fight for it."




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/december/29/pre-arsenal-press-conference/

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Fulham v Arsenal

TEAM NEWS
Fulham forward Raul Jimenez returns after a three-match ban.

Winger Willian, who has missed the Cottagers' last three league games with a hamstring issue, is a doubt, while Tim Ream and Adama Traore remain sidelined.

Arsenal midfielder Kai Havertz is available after serving a one-match suspension.

Thomas Partey, Jurrien Timber, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Fabio Vieira remain out with injury.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

    Fulham are winless in their last 11 meetings with Arsenal (D3, L8). Their last victory was a 2-1 home win in January 2012.
    Arsenal have won their last five Premier League away games against Fulham, scoring at least three goals in each of the last four.
    The Gunners have lost only three of their 33 Premier League matches against Fulham (W23, D7), with all three defeats by a single-goal margin at Craven Cottage.

Fulham

    Fulham could lose four consecutive league games without scoring for their first time since 1971.
    They have 21 points, 10 fewer than at the halfway mark of last season.
    The Cottagers scored 13 goals in their first three matches in December but have not netted in any of the subsequent three.
    They have won their final league game of the year in five of the last eight seasons (D2, L1).
    Fulham have won two of their six top-flight fixtures on New Year's Eve (D1, L3), with both wins coming at Craven Cottage

Arsenal

    Arsenal are in danger of going three league games without a win, which would be their longest such run of the season.
    The Gunners are unbeaten in their last nine away London derbies in the Premier League (W7, D2).
    They have won their final league game in 12 of the last 16 calendar years (D2, L2), including each of the last three.
    Arsenal have won their last four matches on New Year's Eve, including a 4-2 victory away at Brighton last year.
    Gabriel Magalhaes has scored in three of his four Premier League appearances against Fulham, with two of those goals coming at Craven Cottage.
    Since the start of last season, Martin Odegaard has scored 11 away goals in the Premier League, more than any other Arsenal player.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67814391

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Fulham Transfer Tactics: Navigating the January Window

Fulham's January Transfer Window: Strategic Moves and Future Prospects
January Transfers: More Than Just Quick Fixes

Fulham's approach to the January transfer window has always been one of careful consideration rather than rash decisions. This year, with the club positioned six points clear of the relegation zone, there's a sense that while emergency surgery isn't necessary, strategic enhancements are vital. The main focus lies on the future of key players like Joao Palhinha and Tosin Adarabioyo, and the potential investment in a new forward.

Financial Flexibility and Strategic Spending
Fulham's financial situation is healthier than in previous years, thanks to the prospect of a third consecutive season in the Premier League. The most recent financial accounts show a loss of £57.6 million, a reduction from the previous £93 million. This positions Fulham to make some careful but significant moves in the transfer market. The sale of Aleksandar Mitrovic and the consequent removal of his substantial salary provides additional financial leeway.

Recruitment: A Streamlined and Effective Approach
Fulham's recruitment strategy is a fine blend of analytics and traditional scouting. With Tony Khan overseeing the process, Marco Silva's influence on player acquisition is evident. The streamlined approach of Fulham's management, including Chief Executive Alistair Mackintosh's focus on finances, ensures a balanced and effective strategy in player signings.

Positional Priorities: Seeking Long-Term Strengths
While a new striker and midfielder are high on the agenda, Fulham's recruitment will be guided by long-term strategic goals rather than immediate needs. Fulham's interest in Fluminense midfielder Andre signifies a focus on youthful talent, providing a glimpse into the club's future-oriented approach.

Potential Departures: The Balancing Act
Speculation surrounds the future of Joao Palhinha, with interest from clubs like Bayern Munich, as reported by The Athletic. The club's strategy in the event of his departure will be crucial. Additionally, Tosin Adarabioyo's situation adds to the complexity, with his contract expiring in the summer.

In summary, Fulham's January window is less about immediate survival and more about building a team capable of long-term success in the Premier League. The club's careful financial management, combined with a strategic approach to recruitment, positions them well to make the most of this transfer window.



https://eplindex.com/101332/fulham-transfer-tactics-navigating-the-january-window.html

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Club will 'never' match Fulham's request for transfer – Whites said to be demanding too much money
This week, the Brazilian media was full of stories about Atlético Mineiro's alleged chase for Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz.

The reason was a report from England which said the Galo had placed a bid to sign the centre-forward in January.

It turns out that as journalist Thiago Fernandes now comments on this story, he claims there's actually no chance that the offer ever happened.

The reporter explains that Fulham's request for Muniz is €8m, which is way too much money for Atlético, and they'll 'never' put that much money on the table.

It's said the Galo keep up with their interest, but haven't been in talks with the Whites and are actually looking for alternatives in the market.

Muniz has played 566 minutes for Fulham this season, across 12 appearances. He's only scored one goal, and that was in the EFL Cup.

That's why the Whites wouldn't mind selling him for a good offer, but Brazilian clubs are expected to struggle to match that price, even if there are other clubs trying to bring him back to his country.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-will-never-match-fulhams-request-transfer-whites-said-demanding-much-money/

[WhiteJC]

Ream Extends Contract
The Club is delighted to announce that Tim Ream has extended his contract.

The new deal will see him remain a Fulham player until the summer of 2025, by which point he would have been at the Club for a decade.

Speaking to FFCtv, Tim said: "It's nice to get this done. To be somewhere for as long as I have, it takes a lot of hard work.

"To be able to say you are looking at being at a place like this for ten years is not something that happens very often these days.

"To be someone who has that opportunity is a great feeling.

"It fills me with pride to continue to adapt, to continue this rollercoaster that is football."



In his ninth campaign with the Whites, he's racked up 15 appearances to date and scored his first goal of the season away at Manchester City.

The 36-year-old's popularity in SW6 has been long-lasting; he boasts three promotions and was a stand-out performer during the Club's impressive return to the Premier League in 2022 & subsequent 10th place finish in the League last season. 

In September, he became the first Fulham player in more than 26 years to make 300 appearances, celebrating the milestone with a 3-1 win over Sheffield United.

He has also remained a key figure for the USA national team and has been called up for international duty twice so far this season.

Tony Khan added: "Tim Ream embodies what Fulham stands for, and I am delighted that with this new contract, he will reach a decade with the Club in 2025.

"He is a huge character on the pitch and in the dressing room and a very important part of Marco's squad. Mr. Ream is a great favourite amongst our fans too, and I'm sure that you'll all join me in saying congratulations and thank you, Tim! Come on Fulham!"



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/december/29/ream-extends-contract/

[WhiteJC]

Ream extends Fulham deal
Tim Ream has signed a contract extension with Fulham, which will see him remain with the club until the summer of 2025.

The 36 year-old defender will have spent ten years at Craven Cottage should he see out the new deal, having signed from Bolton Wanderers in August 2015. Ream, currently recovering from a calf injury, has made fifteen appearances this season and became the first Fulham player since Simon Morgan to make 300 appearances for the Whites in September's home victory over Sheffield United.

The American international told FFCTV tonight:

"It's nice to get this done. To be somewhere for as long as I have, it takes a lot of hard work. To be able to say you are looking at being at a place like this for ten years is not something that happens very often these days. To be someone who has that opportunity is a great feeling. It fills me with pride to continue to adapt, to continue this rollercoaster that is football."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/12/ream-extends-fulham-deal/

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool tickets and #AffordableFulham
We hope you all had a great Christmas, despite the disappointing results against Burnley and Bournemouth, and are looking forward to the final game of 2023 against Arsenal.

As you know, it has been a busy year for the Trust, with a huge focus on ensuring that we maintain a sustainable fan base through affordable ticket pricing. The Yellow Card #AffordableFulham demonstration held during the Manchester United match showed both the strength of feeling from across the entire Fulham family and also the unique character of our loyal fans in the way that we protested; it is this character that we want to protect.

In the absence of a response to our request for a full ticket pricing review, we asked for our December meeting with the Club to focus entirely on ticket pricing and policy. It was a forthright meeting, with strong views put and argued both by ourselves and by the Club. In essence, we don't agree either on how tickets are priced or on the impact of ticket pricing on the long-term sustainability of our fan base. This is particularly the case with the high category fixtures.

The Club's view is that their ticket pricing policy is a good one and they stand by it; that season ticket prices are fair and match day prices need to be "dynamic" to maximise revenues. They say that games selling out is proof that the strategy is right and that the Trust's position is not representative.

Our view is that consecutive season ticket price increases of 10% and 18% during a cost of living crisis have stretched fans' finances to the limit and that the so-called stretch pricing severely limits the attendance of those of our fans whose lives don't allow them to have a season ticket, particularly for games like Arsenal with adult tickets in the Hammersmith End at £77. We believe that too many of the small number of match day tickets end up in the hands of touts, casual visitors and away fans who are unlikely to return and that the incremental revenue generated from these high prices is small compared with the long-term risk to the fan base. The feedback we have received since the meeting, from members and non-members alike, tells us that you agree so we will keep arguing the case.

Our upcoming League Cup semi-final against Liverpool gives us a perfect opportunity to remind the football world of the unique character of Craven Cottage when it is packed with Fulham fans, so we are pleased to see that the Club has announced a sales policy for the home leg that does prioritise Fulham supporters. In particular, we asked for and support the decision not to sell the whole Putney End to away fans, to offer a season ticket holder priority sales window and to allow season ticket holders to buy additional tickets alongside members who attended earlier rounds. These are all good steps towards reducing the likelihood of away fans sitting in home areas of the ground.

As Fulham fans, we must also do our bit. We ask you all to spread the word that Fulham fans should not, under any circumstances, buy tickets for Liverpool fans in the home sections of the ground, even if you know them well. We're convinced that some season tickets and memberships are in the hands of touts and we have asked the Club to do more to identify these. But please don't put your own season ticket at risk by buying tickets for Liverpool fans.

Price-wise, whilst adult tickets in the Riverside Stand at £50 are more expensive than any of Liverpool, Chelsea or Middlesbrough are charging for their home legs, the £40 tickets in the 'horseshoe' of Hammersmith, Johnny Haynes and Putney Stands are similar to the £38 being charged by Chelsea throughout their ground (Liverpool's adult prices are in the range £9 – £40 and Middlesbrough's are £20 – £25). So, whilst it would be good to not be the most expensive, we do hope that the pricing will allow us to pack out Craven Cottage with Fulham fans. We particularly support the junior prices of £5 and £10 which are significantly cheaper than Chelsea's and we hope will allow families to share in our historic first ever League Cup semi-final. The cheaper coach travel to the away leg is also very welcome.

We know that our campaign for an #AffordableFulham will be a long one and we will keep up the pressure on all fronts. As part of this, you can help us by continuing to give us your ideas and, most importantly, encouraging as many more Fulham fans as possible to join the Trust to make our voice even louder.

We wish you all a Happy New Year and much success on and off the field in 2024.

FST Board.



https://www.fulhamsupporterstrust.com/news/2023/12/liverpool-tickets-and-affordablefulham/

[WhiteJC]

Tim Ream and Fulham agree to 1-year contract extension through 2024-25 season
LONDON (AP) - United States defender Tim Ream and Fulham agreed Friday to a one-year contract extension through the 2024-25 season.

The 36-year-old from St. Louis joined the Cottagers for the 2015-16 season. On Oct. 7, Ream became the 28th player to make 300 appearances for the club, the first since Simon Morgan on April 5, 1997.

"To be somewhere for as long as I have, it takes a lot of hard work," Ream said in a statement. "To be able to say you are looking at being at a place like this for 10 years is not something that happens very often these days. To be someone who has that opportunity is a great feeling. It fills me with pride to continue to adapt, to continue this rollercoaster that is football."

Ream has been with Fulham for three promotions to the Premier League and two relegations. Fulham is in the top tier for the second straight season.

A member of last year's U.S. World Cup roster, Ream has made 55 international appearances dating to 2010.




https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-12910927/Tim-Ream-Fulham-agree-1-year-contract-extension-2024-25-season.html

[WhiteJC]

Guthrie and Bowie on target as injury-hit Cobblers bounce back with excellent win at Lincoln City
Lincoln City 1 Northampton Town 2

Injury-hit Cobblers responded to their Boxing Day disappointment in the best possible way as goals from Jon Guthrie and Kieron Bowie steered them to an excellent and well-deserved 2-1 victory away at Lincoln City on Friday evening.

There was far more energy, purpose and intent about Town's play compared to their timid performance at Stevenage just three days earlier, and they led at the break thanks to skipper Guthrie, who headed in his first goal of the season on the half-hour mark.

A wonderful counter-attacking goal, finished brilliantly by Bowie, doubled the lead early in the second half and whilst Timothy Eyoma immediately pulled one back for the hosts, a straight red card to City captain Paudie O'Connor virtually extinguished any hope of a comeback.

The win moves Cobblers back into the top 10 in League One and the three points were celebrated in remarkable style by manager Jon Brady, who charged down the touchline and towards the away fans once the full-time whistle sounded, first pumps galore and jumping with unbridled joy, as all the emotion came pouring out.

Lee Burge returned to the bench but Jon Brady was missing some big players at Sincil Bank as Sam Hoskins, Sam Sherring and Shaun McWilliams were all absent due to injury, which meant rare starts for Will Hondermarck and Tyreece Simpson.

Cobblers' first shot came 72 minutes earlier than it did against Stevenage when Marc Leonard was narrowly off target from long-range with an early effort, but that did not open the floodgates in terms of goalmouth action in a very tight and cagey opening quarter.

Town eventually upped the tempo after a tepid first 25 minutes and they twice went close before making the breakthrough. Mitch Pinnock's dangerous cross flashed across goal and narrowly avoided Kieron Bowie at the back post before Lukas Jensen was at full stretch to claw away Leonard's 20-yard shot.

Leonard was involved again when Cobblers hit the front on the half-hour mark as a corner was recycled and he crossed for Guthrie, who nipped in front of the outrushing Jensen and headed into an empty net.

Guthrie was then back to a day job with a big block at the other end when keeping out Hakeeb Adelakun's goalbound shot after Max Thompson had been quick off his line to block the initial effort.

Cobblers were untroubled at the start of the second half as Sowerby and Leonard controlled things in midfield, and they strengthened their grip on the game on 58 minutes with a superb counter-attacking goal. From defending their own penalty box, Town sped away down the other end through Simpson, McGowan and Leonard before Bowie curled a wonderful finish into the bottom corner.

That put the visitors into a commanding position but Lincoln hit straight back. Thompson saved smartly from Adelakun but from the resulting corner, Eyoma was given too much room to halve the deficit.

That injected Lincoln with impetus and confidence and Guthrie was in the right place to make a vital clearance before Thompson clawed away a dangerous cross that was threatening to creep in at the back post.

The home side's momentum was checked with 13 minutes to go though when Paudie O'Connor was dismissed for a straight red card after catching Simpson with a swinging arm.

Simpson had a chance to seal it but he was denied by Jensen before Pinnock blazed over, and those misses would have come back to haunt the Cobblers had McGowan not made a crucial defensive header in the sixth minute of added time.

That aside, though, Cobblers defended well and were relatively comfortable across nine minutes of stoppage-time before the full-time whistle kick-started the celebrations, led by a pumped up Brady.

Lincoln: Jensen, Sorensen (Duffy 86), Jackson, Erhahon (Shodipo 72), O'Conor, Burroughs (Makama 58), Eyoma, Roughan, Adelakun (Vale 86), Hamilton, Bishop (Smith 86)

Subs not used: Wright, Mitchell

Cobblers: Thompson, McGowan, Willis, Guthrie © (Monthé 80), Brough, Sowerby, Leonard, Hondermarck (Hylton 82), Pinnock, Bowie (Odimayo 61), Simpson

Subs not used: Burge, Lintott, Dyche, Abimbola

Referee: Matt Corlett

Attendance: 8,661

Cobblers fans: 926



https://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/sport/football/guthrie-and-bowie-on-target-as-injury-hit-cobblers-bounce-back-with-excellent-win-at-lincoln-city-4461421