Monday Fulham Stuff - 8/01/24...

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Carabao Cup Semi-Final is a big opportunity for Fulham, says De Cordova-Reid
For Fulham, this season marks the first time the Cottagers have made it through to the final four of the Carabao Cup in the Club's 145-year history, but for Bobby De Cordova-Reid, he's no stranger to a Semi-Final showdown in this particular competition.

Back in 2017/18, the 30-year-old was a part of a history-making Bristol City side who reached the Semi-Final of the League Cup. The Robins overcame top-flight opposition in Watford, Stoke City, Crystal Palace and defending champions Manchester United en-route.

Although the Sky Bet Championship side – De Cordova-Reid's hometown team where he came through the ranks – eventually bowed out at the hands of Manchester City, who would go on to be crowned winners that year, it was a memorable campaign for the forward.

"I've been here before with Bristol City when we faced Manchester City over two legs but unfortunately, we didn't progress," he remembers. "We beat a lot of Premier League teams on the way and that gave us a lot of confidence. It made me realise that I could compete at that level and it made me eager to want to get to the Premier League and gave me that drive.

"Beating Manchester United in the Quarter-Final and the way we did it with a last-minute winner from Korey Smith, the jubilation from the fans was something special for the Club and for us players and it gave us a real opportunity."

Lee Johnson's men drew Manchester City in the Semi-Final, with a trip to the Etihad on the cards in the first leg. De Cordova-Reid successfully converted from the spot to give Bristol City the lead in the first half, but an injury-time winner saw the hosts turn it around to take a 2-1 lead into the second leg. The Robins gave it a go back on home soil but bowed out on a 5-3 aggregate score-line.

De Cordova-Reid recalls: "In the first leg against Man City, we went 1-0 up and I scored a penalty but unfortunately, we conceded two late goals and they had the quality to turn the game around. In the second leg, we gave it a go, but they were just too strong for us.

"I think John Stones brought me down – and I remember after the game, everyone was saying how good their keeper was at the time at saving penalties, but I didn't know that, so I was quite confident that I was going to score the penalty and thankfully it went in! It was a nice moment."

De Cordova-Reid hit 21 goals in all competitions that year as he impressed in the league and in the Cup for the Robins, earning him a move to then-Premier League outfit Cardiff City in the summer.

"It was massive and it's looked upon now as a big achievement for Bristol City back then and it still will be," the Fulham attacker continues. "It put us in a place where we actually believed we could far. We take great pride in it and it was an enjoyable time for us, definitely. Now I've got the opportunity to do it again and go one step further."

So far this season in the competition, Fulham have defeated league rivals Tottenham Hotspur in Round Two, Norwich City in Round Three, Ipswich Town in Round Four, before beating Everton on penalties in the Quarter-Final to book their place in the Semi-Final for the first time.

"It's long overdue," the Jamaican international explains. "It's nice for this team to have something like this and achieve something that the Club hasn't done before. We're here to make our mark and have a stamp on the Club and I think we've done that, but we want to take it to another level and win it. It's a big opportunity for the Club to go through."

Wembley is now in sight for the Semi-Finalists. On Wednesday evening, Marco Silva's Cottagers make the trip up to Anfield for the first leg of the tie before returning to Craven Cottage in a fortnight's time to host high-flying Premier League leaders Liverpool.

He adds: "We understand Liverpool are a massive Club and we've just got to play our best and hopefully get a bit of luck to go through. They're a very attacking side who bring a lot of goals and a lot of energy but at the same time, we've had some good games against them.

"We lost 4-3 earlier on in the season but we understand how they play and they have weaknesses as well and hopefully we can exploit that over the two legs. We understand howe good they are and what they bring to the table, but we understand how good we can be. If we catch them at the right moment and if we're on our game, we still fancy our chances."

"We're here to make our mark and have a stamp on the Club and I think we've done that, but we want to take it to another level."

Bobby De Cordova-Reid

De Cordova-Reid was on the score-sheet the last time out in Merseyside as Fulham slipped to defeat against the Reds, and although he's not looking beyond the upcoming tie for the time being, the prospect of making it through to the Carabao Cup Final is one that excites him.

He affirms: "We're looking to go away to Anfield and get a result to stay in the game and bring it home to the Cottage and hopefully have a party after that! It'll be a first for me to get through to a cup final.

"We're looking forward to it and hopefully we can do something over the two legs. No matter what you do in the first leg, you've still got to finish the job after that. We're going to give it our best shot and everyone's focused and ready to go."



https://www.efl.com/news/2024/january/07/carabao-cup-semi-final-is-a-big-opportunity-for-fulham--says-bobby-de-cordova-reid/

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Fulham interested in Said Benrahma, asking price a stumbling block

Said Benrahma has reportedly emerged as a target for Fulham, but West Ham United demanding £20 million has become a roadblock.
According to a report by Football Insider, Said Benrahma is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are in the market for offensive reinforcement in the ongoing January transfer window. But with West Ham United demanding £20 million, a winter move might not see the light of day.

Said Benrahma at West Ham United: The Story So Far
Said Benrahma has endured a rollercoaster ride since joining West Ham United from Brentford. The 28-year-old was a hot property during his time at the Gtech Community Stadium. But he has not hit the heights his potential promised since moving across London to join West Ham.

The Hammers initially signed the Algerian international on loan in October 2020 before completing a permanent move a few months later. But he has blown hot and cold at the London Stadium in the last three and a half years. That has also been the case this season, as Benrahma has managed only one assist in 21 appearances.

The former Brentford attacker has lost prominence at West Ham United, with Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus being the pivotal attackers. But Benrahma's stock remains high, with Fulham, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Lyon looking to sign him in the January transfer window. Meanwhile, the Hammers are demanding around £20 million to part ways with him.

Fulham Keen on Signing Benrahma
Fulham's interest in Said Benrahma is surprising due to his inconsistencies in the final third during his stint with West Ham United. But the Cottagers are in the market for a versatile attacker and have shown interest in many players, including Roberto Firmino.

The West London club replaced Aleksandar Mitrovic with Raul Jimenez in the summer transfer window. While the Mexican international has done reasonably well, he has not been as consistent as Mitrovic. Benrahma will not compete with Jimenez up front. But he can reprise the three other roles behind the striker.

So, he can compete with Willian, Harry Wilson, Bobby De Cordova-Reid, and Andreas Pereira. But West Ham's price tag of £20 million is a sticking point for Fulham, who will not meet the valuation. That is also the case with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Lyon. So, a winter move might not materialise.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/01/07/fulham-interested-in-said-benrahma-asking-price-a-stumbling-block/

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Wolves and Fulham make moves for Leicester City and Southampton target
The Championship trio now face competition from others in the top flight.

    Premier League duo Fulham and Wolves interested in Liverpool midfielder Fabio Carvalho with loan approaches made.
    Carvalho's loan spell at RB Leipzig gave him limited game time, prompting a recall from Liverpool.
    Championship teams still have a chance to sign Carvalho, with Southampton and Leicester City among the interested second-tier teams.

Premier League duo Fulham and Wolverhampton Wanderers are among the interested teams in Liverpool midfielder Fabio Carvalho with numerous sides making loan approaches for him, according to the Daily Mail.

The 21-year-old spent the first half of the campaign on loan at RB Leipzig, with the player being deemed temporarily surplus to requirements at Anfield.

This loan spell also gave him an opportunity to play more regularly - and for a side that were set to compete at the top end of the Bundesliga.

Unfortunately for him, his game time out in Germany was limited, with the player making 15 competitive appearances.

15 competitive appearances doesn't sound too bad considering that was only the first half of the season, but the vast majority of his displays came from the bench and with this, the Reds decided to recall him.

But they may be keen to send him back out on loan again - and can do so with the player only appearing for one club so far this season.

And there isn't a shortage of sides who are keen to take him away from Merseyside for the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign.

Interested teams in Fabio Carvalho
With top-flight teams in the mix for him, including Wolves and the Cottagers, that may dampen Championship sides' chances of securing his signature.

Hull City, Leeds United, Southampton and Leicester City are all keen on the attacking midfielder at this stage, but could be beaten to his signature by one of the top-tier teams.

Carvalho previously played for the Cottagers in the English capital before his switch to Anfield - and that could put Marco Silva's side in a good position to get a deal over the line.

How much game time he is offered may determine who comes out on top in this race though.

Championship teams should still have hope of securing his signature
Because the Reds will be keen for him to start as many games as possible, and joining a second-tier team may give him the best chance of doing that, the likes of Hull, Leeds, Leicester and the Saints should be looking to remain in this race.

The latter two are also in an extremely strong financial position.

With the Foxes selling the likes of James Maddison and Harvey Barnes during the summer, that should give Enzo Maresca a decent budget to work with.

Russell Martin also saw plenty of players leave for big fees in the summer, so both the Saints and the Foxes may have the ability to put forward a very attractive financial package to take him away from Anfield for the remainder of the season.

It wouldn't be a surprise to see him return to the second tier so he can win more game time and boost his confidence once more, with the 21-year-old able to be a real asset at that level.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/wolves-and-fulham-move-for-leicester-city-and-southampton-target/

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Race to sign West Ham star expected to go right down to the wire as Wolves, Fulham ready bids
The race to sign a West Ham attacker could reportedly do right down until the end of the January window, with Wolves and Fulham among the clubs chasing him.

Hammers playmaker Said Benrahma is the player in question, with the London club reportedly willing to listen to offers for the player in the remaining weeks of the winter window – but only at the right price.

Football Insider states that West Ham have slapped a £20million price tag on the 28-year-old to keep any suitors at bay.

Those suitors include the likes of Wolves, Fulham and French outfit Lyon, although all three prefer a loan deal with an option or obligation to buy in the summer.

Benrahma should have been with the Algeria squad at the African Cup of Nations for the next month but was not picked after falling out with international boss Djamel Belmadi.

Benrahma is currently providing attacking cover for the likes of Mohammed Kudus (AFCON duty) and Lucas Paqueta, with the latter coming off in the first half of the win at Arsenal.

The Brazilian is not expected to be out for long though, but having Benrahma still around certainly helps Moyes with his team selection.

However, Football Insider indicates that while there is still a chance that the player moves, it will not happen until right at the end of the month so as not to have an impact on the strength of Moyes' squad.

Benrahma keen on West Ham exit
FI adds that the former Brentford man is keen on quitting the London Stadium in search of more regular first-team football.

Benrahma has not really made a telling contribution for West Ham so far this season, notching just one assist in 21 games across all competitions. He also missed a late penalty in the win at Arsenal last month.

Twelve of his appearances have been as part of Moyes's starting XI, but his form has been in stark contrast to last season when he scored 12 goals and added five assists in 51 games.

Indeed, his form helped the club to Europa Conference League glory. However, the summer arrival of Kudus has pushed Benrahma back to more of a bench role and he's now eager to pursue a move elsewhere as a result.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/race-sign-hammers-star-expected-go-down-to-wire-wolves-fulham-ready-bids

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West Ham ready to sell 28-year-old winger, Fulham keen
Fulham are keen on acquiring the services of 28-year-old West Ham United winger Said Benrahma and according to a report by Football Insider, the Hammers are ready to sanction the sale of the Algerian international in the ongoing transfer window.

Initially, Benrahma joined West Ham United towards the end of 2020 from Brentford on a short loan. The move was made permanent in the winter of 2021 and he has been an important part of their first team since.

However, things have changed of late. The 28-year-old has fallen down the pecking order. Out of his 21 appearances in the ongoing season, only 12 have come as a starter.

While he still has more than two years left on his deal with the Hammers, Benrahma wants to part ways with the club in search of regular first-team football. Multiple clubs are interested in acquiring his services and Fulham are one of them.

The Cottagers are looking to add more firepower to their attack and they feel the 28-year-old could help their cause. As a result, they are looking to make a move for his services but will have to wait until the very end of the ongoing transfer window.

The Algerian international is not a part of the African Cup of Nations and he will be providing the much-needed cover for Mohammed Kudus who will be unavailable during January and Lucas Paqueta who is recovering from injury.

As a result, the Hammers won't sanction his sale until the very end of the transfer window. West Ham will look for an all-cash deal, but Fulham are expected to push for a loan deal with a buy option or obligation.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/01/07/west-ham-ready-to-sell-28-year-old-winger-fulham-keen/

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"It's a blessing" – Fulham's Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi speak on their friendship and what it's like to play for Nigeria
Marco Silva secured the signature of two Nigerian players last summer as Calvin joined Fulham from Ajax, while Iwobi joined from Everton.

Fulham and Super Eagles duo, Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi have expressed how it feels like to don the colours of the Nigerian football team, Soccernet.ng reports.

The pair joined The Cottagers last summer and have been regular starters for the club, forming a great bond as close friends.

Speaking in an interview with BeIN Sports, the duo shared how their friendship started with Iwobi teaching Bassey how to sing the Nigerian national anthem.

"We spent a lot of time together, and we connected, and I had to teach him how to sing the national anthem, which he can just about sing now," Iwobi said.

Bassey, 24, in response to Iwobi's comments, praised the on and off-field actions of the former Arsenal midfielder.

"He's just a good guy. He made me feel welcome and made me feel at home. It's why I'm glad he's here, not just the quality on the pitch, but how he is as a person, and it's just so good to have a friend like him," the former Ajax defender said.

Both players were selected to be a part of Jose Peseiro's 25-man squad list that will be travelling to represent Nigeria, and they couldn't hold back their thrill talking about what it feels like to play for the giants of Africa.

"It's home, you're not just representing your family, you're representing the whole nation. It means a lot especially the culture that we grew up in. We could have chosen to go elsewhere, but we went home. It's always an honour when you get called up and everyone sings the national anthem with so much pride, conviction and vim, and it's a proud moment every time you get called up," Iwobi said.

Calvin Bassey made his debut for Nigeria in the team's goalless draw against Ghana in 2022 and is set to fill big shoes as he plays his first tournament for the Super Eagles, and for the defender, it's a dream come true.

"For me it's big, it's a blessing you know. These are things you used to dream of when you were a kid. Big international tournaments, playing in the Premier League and living in it is just a blessing, and I just thank God, really," the versatile defender added.

Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro has been a big fan of both players in the past, and without a doubt, the duo will be pivotal players in the tactical system of the Portuguese tactician.



https://soccernet.ng/2024/01/its-a-blessing-fulhams-calvin-bassey-and-alex-iwobi-speak-on-their-friendship-and-what-its-like-to-play-for-nigeria.html

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Everton 'really like' Harrison Reed but January move would be 'strange'
Everton are firm admirers of Fulham midfielder Harrison Reed and may pounce ahead of the transfer window closing on February 1

    Everton have set their sights on landing Fulham's Harrison Reed despite being forced to contend with a minimal budget.
    The central midfielder's current employers are in a strong negotiating position thanks to his decision to pen a new contract in September.
    Respected journalist Paul Brown understands that Everton are long-term admirers of Reed ahead of potentially heading to the negotiating table.

Everton 'really like' Harrison Reed as boss Sean Dyche scours the market for potential reinforcements, but journalist Paul Brown has told GIVEMESPORT why luring the Fulham star to Goodison Park would be a 'strange' decision.

Having already been handed the heaviest punishment in Premier League history when they were rocked by a 10-point deduction earlier this season, thanks to breaching financial regulations, the Toffees are not in a position to splash the cash ahead of the winter window's February 1 deadline.

But Dyche, who has led Everton to 16 wins from his first 43 matches at the helm, will still be looking to strengthen his squad despite being forced to contend with having a threadbare budget as he aims to ensure his side are not involved in another relegation scrap which goes down to the final day of the season.

Toffees pinpoint Reed as target
Although Everton have emerged as admirers of Reed after putting plans in place for the remainder of the month, according to MailOnline, there are doubts over whether they will be able to tempt Fulham into sanctioning his departure.

The report suggests the central midfielder - who has been limited to just nine Premier League starts this season after falling down the Cottagers' pecking order - has worked his way onto the Toffees' radar, but they only have a slim chance of acquiring his services as they will have to convince his current employers to agree to a loan deal due to their financial issues.

Everton's interest comes after Wolverhampton Wanderers were keen to land Reed during the final hours of the summer transfer window, but a move to Molineux failed to come to fruition and he has remained on the banks of the River Thames at Craven Cottage.

In a blow for the Merseyside outfit in their pursuit, Fulham have strengthened their negotiating position since Wolves eyed a deal as the 28-year-old penned a new £50,000-per-week contract in September, tying him down to the west Londoners until 2027.

Having signed him on a permanent basis for £6million after a successful loan spell from Southampton in August 2020, the Cottagers were keen to reward Reed with fresh terms after he had played a key role in enjoying a fruitful first season back in the top flight.

Alex Crook, the talkSPORT reporter, recently told GIVEMESPORT that the former England under-20 international had initially been frustrated at not being handed an extended contract after being promised a new agreement for a prolonged period.

Paul Brown update - Harrison Reed
Brown understands that Everton have been keen on recruiting Reed for a significant period, thanks to admiring his qualities in the middle of the park, while Fulham chief Marco Silva has been tipping him for a maiden call-up to the England squad.

But the respected journalist believes Dyche should not prioritise making a move for the former Norwich City man as he already has a plethora of established midfield options at Goodison Park, which would lead to it being difficult to give assurances over game time.

Brown told GIVEMESPORT:

"I've heard links between Everton and Reed before. I do think he is a player that they really like. I can remember, not so long ago, Marco Silva talking him up as a potential England international. He was saying that he was very surprised he hadn't been called up.

"I actually think that it is a strange one right now, in terms of timing, because Everton have got their midfield sorted out at the moment.

"I think the balance is quite good there, but someone like Reed would come in expecting to start every week. He might not get that opportunity in the way that Dyche likes to set up."

Danjuma wants to quit Goodison Park
Arnaut Danjuma is eager to bring his Everton loan spell to a close ahead of schedule after becoming increasingly frustrated by his lack of opportunities, according to talkSPORT, and Ligue 1 strugglers Lyon are among a number of European sides plotting a move.

But the report suggests the Dutchman, who was only handed his seventh start of the season as the Toffees claimed a goalless draw against Crystal Palace on Thursday, could be blocked from embarking on a fresh challenge as Dyche will only cut his temporary switch short if a replacement is already lined up.

Reputable reporter Brown recently told GIVEMESPORT that Everton may look to hold onto Danjuma despite his desire to leave Goodison Park ahead of schedule as they already have limited options thanks to boasting a threadbare squad.

However, that has not stopped admirers keeping tabs on his situation, and Lyon have set their sights on landing the winger as they look to improve their chances of staving off relegation after enduring a season to forget so far.

It is understood that the French outfit are eager to acquire Danjuma's services in the coming days, having pinpointed the winter window as a potential opportunity to pounce thanks to being out of favour on Merseyside, but discussions have not reached an advanced stage with parent club Villarreal.



https://www.givemesport.com/everton-transfer-news-really-like-harrison-reed-january-move-strange-goodison-park/

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Pavlidis ready for the next step amid Fulham interest
AZ Alkmaar striker Vangelis Pavlidis has told De Telegraaf that he is ready for the next step in his career amid interest from Premier League and Bundesliga sides.

In recent weeks, Borussia Monchengladbach and Fulham have been linked with moves for the Greek forward.

Speaking to De Telegraaf about the interest, Pavlidis said, "Are there things going on? I don't talk about that now, I prefer to keep that to myself.

"It is clear that I am physically and technically ready to take the next step. The transfer window in the winter is of course different than in the summer. It is more difficult in several ways. That is why I don't know whether this is the right time."

Pavlidis could have moved in the summer but there were no suitable suitors, "Everyone knows that I wanted to take the next step last summer. In the end it was not the right time, because a suitable club did not present itself. I am very happy at AZ."

Pavlidis is currently the joint top scorer in the Eredivisie and he is happy to remain in Alkmaar should a move not materialise this month, "If nothing comes, I will just continue with what I did in the first six months of the season and I want to continue to provide goals and assists and help win games. I am very motivated to be top scorer to play with AZ for a place in the Champions League and to strive for success in the cup."



http://www.football-oranje.com/pavlidis-ready-for-the-next-step-amid-fulham-interest/

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Lambird lashes Fulham through
An extra-time winner from Lilly Lambird ensured Fulham FC Women made it through to the next round of the League Cup after a thrilling 3-2 win over Dulwich Hamlet Reserves at Motspur Park this afternoon.

Fulham had to field a much-changed line-up due to injuries and unavailability of a number of first-team regulars but took a firm grip of the contest before half-time. Ruby Murtagh offered an early indication of the home side's intentions with a rising drive that flew over the crossbar before Georgia Heasman hammered the Whites into the lead with a fantastic free-kick. Sophie Manzi doubled lead eight minutes later when she pounced after a goalmouth melee, but Hamlet's second string fought back impressively to level the contest by scoring twice in the space of four minutes before the break.

Murtagh nearly restored Fulham's lead in first half stoppage time but was denied by a pair of brilliant saves by the visiting goalkeeper. Debutant Prudie Todd-Warmoth almost capped off an impressive performance with a terrific effort that flew just over the top before Heasman went close from another set piece. Heasman wasn't far away with another strike that went agonisingly wide before Lambird drilled one high into the net to put Fulham in front five minutes before half time.

A tense contest saw Fulham progress after being pushed all the way by Dulwich's reserves, who deserved plenty of credit for their resilience and never-say-die attitude. Fulham will face Hamlet's first eleven at home in the next round, which is scheduled for the start of February.

FULHAM FC WOMEN (3-4-3): Stratton; Dale, Tagliavini, Christison-McNee, Adaway, Heasman, Lambird, Murtagh, Buchele, Todd-Warmoth, Manzi. Subs: Parker, Bird, Allen, Walters, Connelley.

GOALS: Heasman (20), Manzi (28), Lambird (100).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/lambird-lashes-fulham-through/

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Fulham reject Napoli's offer for Sasa Lukic
Premier League side Fulham have rejected Napoli's offer for midfielder Sasa Lukic.

Lukic has experience of playing in Serie A during his time at Torino, but he joined Fulham in the January of 2023 on the transfer deadline day. And it seems as if Napoli are interested in bringing him back to the Serie A.

Marco Conterio has reported that the Partenopei's interest in the 27-year-old is genuine and an offer was put forward to the midfielder. Fulham kindly rejected it, as Napoli offered an initial loan deal worth €2.5 million and the option to buy him permanently set at €9 million.

The Serbian has made only 11 appearances in the Premier League this season, but he has played less than 400 minutes of first-team, which clearly suggests that he isn't quite getting the minutes that he would want.

Napoli's Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa will be missing due to AFCON and that would leave a berth in midfield free.



https://www.getfootballnewsitaly.com/2024/fulham-reject-napolis-offer-for-sasa-lukic/

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Jurgen Klopp issues Virgil van Dijk fitness update after missing Liverpool's FA Cup win
Virgil van Dijk missed Liverpool's trip to Arsenal in the FA Cup third round due to illness but Jurgen Klopp is hopeful the centre-back will be back to face Fulham

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is hopeful Virgil van Dijk will be back in contention to face Fulham on Wednesday after missing the Reds' 2-0 win over Arsenal in the FA Cup.

The Dutchman sat out of Liverpool's trip to the Emirates due to illness. This forced Klopp to start Jarrel Quansah and Ibrahima Konate as the centre-back pairing, with Joe Gomez at left-back and Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right side of the back four. Despite Van Dijk's absence, Liverpool went on to progress through to the fourth round of the competition thanks to Jakub Kiwior's own-goal and a late Luis Diaz strike.

However, Klopp will be keen to get Van Dijk back available ahead of Liverpool's Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg tie against Fulham on Wednesday. The Reds host Marco Silva's side at Anfield, but then face an 11-day break before their next fixture, a game against Bournemouth in the Premier League.

When asked if Van Dijk will be available for Liverpool's home game against Fulham, Klopp said: "Yes, I'm hopeful but I don't know. He came (with us) and it's difficult for Virg to look s*** but he did, so we sent him home.

"We had a few days to prepare for the most difficult game and with a slightly different team and last second Virgil couldn't play and that didn't help."

Speaking on the performances of Liverpool's two centre-backs against Arsenal, Klopp added: "Top, top. A horrible moment, Ibou was twice down and Jarell goes down and jarred his back and actually I thought that's it and it would have been really tricky early in the game.

"But he was really good and Joey (Gomez) again good and Trent (Alexander-Arnold) exceptional and Ali (Becker) at moments was helpful as well. In front of that, Macca (Alexis Mac Allister) was really there and Curtis (Jones) wanted to be, for Cody (Gakpo) it was a bit more difficult in a different position.

"We tried to prepare for everything, but did I prepare for a double 10 and high winger? No. More my fault than the boys' fault. We had half-time to see it, to watch it and learn from it in the second half, and the second half was much better."



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/klopp-liverpool-van-dijk-update-31828511

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Liverpool team news: Injury, suspension list vs. Fulham
Liverpool will aim to put one foot in the EFL Cup final when they host Fulham in the first leg of their semi-final showdown on Wednesday evening.

The Reds demolished West Ham United 5-1 in the quarter-finals to make the last four, prior to which they also sent Bournemouth and Leicester City packing.

Jurgen Klopp's men have already experienced the sweet taste of knockout success once this month, defeating Arsenal 2-0 in Sunday's FA Cup third-round tie thanks to Jakub Kiwior's own goal and a Luis Diaz strike.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up Liverpool's latest injury and suspension news ahead of their clash with the Cottagers, who bested Rotherham United 1-0 in Friday's FA Cup encounter.

Virgil van Dijk
Status: Minor doubt
Type of injury: Illness
Possible return date: January 10 (vs. Fulham)

Virgil van Dijk could not contribute to Sunday's beating of Arsenal due to illness, but Klopp is hopeful that his captain will shake off his bug in time for the first leg this week.

Mohamed Salah
Status: Out
Type of injury: International
Possible return date: Unknown

Talismanic attacker Mohamed Salah is currently away with the Egypt squad preparing for the start of the Africa Cup of Nations, and he will be absent for a number of weeks while he battles for continental stardom.

Wataru Endo
Status: Out
Type of injury: International
Possible return date: Unknown

Similarly, Japan midfielder Wataru Endo received a call-up to his nation's Asian Cup squad and will not be at Klopp's disposal while the Samurai Blue are competing for glory in Qatar.

Dominik Szoboszlai
Status: Out
Type of injury: Hamstring
Possible return date: January 21 (vs. Bournemouth)

Dominik Szoboszlai sustained a hamstring injury during Liverpool's 4-2 win over Newcastle United on New Year's Day, and Klopp admitted last week that the midfielder had "no chance" of facing Arsenal or Fulham, but he could return for the meeting with Bournemouth on January 21.

Kostas Tsimikas
Status: Out
Type of injury: Collarbone
Possible return date: Unknown

During Liverpool's clash with Arsenal on December 23, Kostas Tsimikas was sent tumbling into Klopp by Bukayo Saka and suffered a broken collarbone in the incident, ruling him out for the long-term.

Ben Doak
Status: Out
Type of injury: Knee
Possible return date: Unknown

Liverpool's bench against Arsenal featured several teenage prospects from the club's academy, but Ben Doak was not among them, as the 18-year-old is nursing a knee injury sustained on Under-21s duty and remains out of contention for now.

Joel Matip
Status: Out
Type of injury: Knee
Possible return date: Unknown

Joel Matip's season is over due to the ACL rupture he suffered against Fulham in December, and unless the Cameroonian defender's contract is extended beyond the end of the season, he has also played his final competitive match in a Liverpool jersey.

Andrew Robertson
Status: Out
Type of injury: Shoulder
Possible return date: February 4 (vs. Arsenal)

Andrew Robertson is making slow progress in his recovery from a shoulder operation, but he is still some way away from rejoining team training and is not expected back in action until February at the earliest.

Thiago Alcantara
Status: Out
Type of injury: Hip
Possible return date: January 21 (vs. Bournemouth)

Thiago Alcantara has now missed nine months of action with a serious hip injury, and a couple of complications have also delayed his return, but there is hope that he will be back in team training this month ahead of a potential on-field return in a couple of weeks' time.

Stefan Bajcetic
Status: Out
Type of injury: Calf
Possible return date: Unknown

After fully recovering from an adductor injury, up-and-coming midfielder Stefan Bajcetic quickly re-entered the treatment room with a calf issue relating to his growth, and Klopp is still not giving a timeframe on his return to action.

LIVERPOOL'S SUSPENSION LIST
Liverpool have no players suspended for the first leg.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/liverpool/league-cup/injuries-and-suspensions/liverpool-injury-suspension-list-vs-fulham_533194.html?newsnow

[WhiteJC]

Bolton Wanderers plotting move for Josh Onomah
Former Fulham and Preston North End midfielder Josh Onomah has emerged on Bolton Wanderers' transfer radar.

    Bolton Wanderers are currently performing well and are in contention for promotion in League One.
    The team has won their last four league games and recently held Premier League side Luton Town to a draw in the FA Cup.
    The club is reportedly interested in signing Josh Onomah, a free agent and former Premier League midfielder, to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window.

It has been an excellent season for Bolton Wanderers in League One so far.

The Trotters suffered disappointment as they were beaten by Barnsley in the play-off semi-final last season, but they are among the promotion contenders in the third tier once again this campaign.

Wanderers have won their last four league games, and they held Premier League side Luton Town to a 0-0 draw at Kenilworth Road in the FA Cup third round on Sunday.

Ian Evatt's side currently sit second in the table, two points behind leaders Portsmouth and two points clear of third-placed Peterborough United, and they have games in hand on many of those around them.

With the January transfer window now open for business, Evatt will likely be keen to strengthen as he looks to maintain his side's place in the top two, and one player who is reportedly attracting interest from the Trotters is former Fulham and Preston North End midfielder Josh Onomah.

Bolton Wanderers interested in Josh Onomah
According to journalist Alan Nixon, the Trotters are weighing up a move for Onomah, who is a free agent after his departure from Preston in the summer.

Onomah arrived at Deepdale on a short-term contract last January, and after impressing during his 13 appearances for the club, he was offered a new deal, but he did not put pen-to-paper on an extension.

The 26-year-old spent time on trial with Stoke City this summer, and he was also said to be on the radar of former club Sheffield Wednesday, but a move did not materialise.

Onomah began his career with Tottenham Hotspur, and he had loan spells with Aston Villa and Wednesday before making a permanent switch to Fulham in August 2019.

The midfielder won two promotions to the Premier League during his time at Craven Cottage in 2020 and 2022, but he fell out of favour in the top flight, and his contract was mutually terminated last January prior to his move to Preston.

Nixon claims that Onomah is "looking to get back into a club as soon as possible", and with Wanderers keen to bring in new players "without spending too much money", he could be an ideal addition.

Would Josh Onomah be a good signing for Bolton Wanderers?
Onomah would be an excellent signing for the Trotters.

While he would need time to build up his fitness, he has proven his quality in the Premier League and the Championship previously, and he would be a huge asset in League One.

Wanderers already have incredibly strong midfield options, including the likes of George Thomason, Josh Sheehan, Aaron Morley, Paris Maghoma and Kyle Dempsey, but Onomah would add further quality in the middle of the park.

Onomah will be desperate to play regular football after over six months without a club, and Evatt could be the perfect manager to help reignite his career.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/bolton-wanderers-plotting-move-for-ex-fulham-and-preston-player/

[WhiteJC]

How to watch Chelsea v Fulham in the Premier League on TNT Sports and discovery+, TV and live stream details
Here are all the details on how to watch and live stream Chelsea v Fulham in the Premier League in the UK on TNT Sports and discovery+. Mauricio Pochettino's side will be aiming to win three consecutive Premier League games after victories over Crystal Palace and Luton Town respectively. They face west London rivals Fulham, who beat title-chasing Arsenal 2-1 on New Year's Eve.

Chelsea host Fulham in the first live Premier League game on TNT Sports, as the Blues look to continue their resurgence in form.
Mauricio Pochettino's men are hoping to win three consecutive Premier League victories for the first time this season after 2-1 win over Crystal Palace and a 3-2 victory against Luton Town.

This is the first match to take place after a weekend of FA Cup action, and another three points will at least temporarily, move the Blues level on points with Manchester United and Brighton in an increasingly intriguing battle for European qualification.

Meanwhile, it has been a topsy-turvy campaign for Fulham to date, who head into this clash in 13th with a morale-boosting 2-1 win over a lacklustre Arsenal side at Craven Cottage on New Year's Eve.
This result came after three defeats on the spin to Bournemouth, Burnley, and Newcastle United respectively - a sequence of results that came after back-to-back 5-0 victories over Nottingham Forest and West Ham United.
Goals from Mykhailo Mudryk and Armando Broja sealed a 2-0 win for Mauricio Pochettino's side in the reverse fixture back in October.
We run through all the details on Chelsea v Fulham in the Premier League, including how to watch and live stream on TNT Sports and discovery+.

When is Chelsea v Fulham?
Chelsea host Fulham at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, January 13.
Kick-off is 12:30 UK time, with live coverage on TNT Sports 1 commencing at 11:00.

How to watch Chelsea v Fulham?
TNT Sports is available across all major TV platforms, offering a line-up of up to four TV channels (TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports 2, TNT Sports 3, TNT Sports 4), and up to six digital or red-button channels (TNT Sports 5 to 10), and TNT Sports Ultimate plus TNT Sports Box Office HD.
Chelsea v Fulham will be live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate with coverage from 11:00 on Saturday, January 13 ahead of kick off at 12:30.
You can subscribe to TNT Sports through discovery+, BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.
To find out where your local establishments showing TNT Sports are, use our Pub Finder tool.

How do I watch Premier League live streams on TNT Sports? What is discovery+?
The streaming home for TNT Sports in the UK is discovery+, where fans can enjoy a subscription that includes TNT Sports, Eurosport and entertainment in one destination.
You can also watch TNT Sports through BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.

BT Sport app closes - How do I activate discovery+?
The BT Sport app closed on Thursday, October 12, 2023.

If I want TNT Sports, do I need to download a new app? 
The discovery+ app is the streaming home for TNT Sports.
The BT Sport app closed on October 12, 2023 and we encourage all our customers to download the discovery+ app to continue enjoying TNT Sports.

How to activate
o keep watching TNT Sports online or via an app you need to activate your discovery+ subscription. It's quick, easy and there's no extra cost.
Firstly, choose your activation route from the four options below:

    BT Customer: If you pay for TNT Sports as part of your BT Broadband plan (BT TV, App, Sky), log in to MyBT and navigate to 'Your Products' and select 'TV' where you'll find the discovery+ activation tile
    BT Customer: If you're a BT Mobile or a TNT Sports Monthly Pass customer. Visit www.bt.com/sport/activate-discovery-plus and follow the steps
    EE Customer. If you joined us BEFORE July 18, 2023 and have an active BT Sport account. Visit www.bt.com/sport/activate-discovery-plus then, select 'activate my discovery+' and follow the steps. Note, you will need to use your BT Sport login details (BT ID) to activate.
    EE Customer. If you joined on or AFTER July 18, 2023 or have not activated BT Sport visit www.ee.co.uk/TNTSports. Note, if you're using an Apple (IOS) mobile to activate discovery+, please switch off Wi-Fi before activating. Then, select 'activate by discovery+' and follow the steps.

Once activated download the discovery+ app or visit discoveryplus.com to enjoy all that Discovery has to offer.



https://www.tntsports.co.uk/football/premier-league/2023-2024/how-to-watch-chelsea-v-fulham-in-the-premier-league-on-tnt-sports-and-discovery-tv-and-live-stream-d_sto9942057/story.shtml

[filham]

Thanks for the above advice on watching the Chelsea match.
I have bt sport as part of my bt packages so hopefully I can make the connection to the Chelsea match. However I am quite capable of getting lost on these on line things so may well end up with god, old comforting Gentleman Jim again.