Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 9/01/24...

[WhiteJC]

Luke Harris: Exeter City boss hails 'incredible' debut from Fulham loanee

Luke Harris has been called up to the Wales squad, but has yet to make his senior debut

Exeter City manager Gary Caldwell says teenager Luke Harris made an incredible debut for the League One side.

Harris, 18, moved to City from Fulham on loan last week and impressed as City were 2-1 winners over Carlisle United to move out of the relegation spots.

The Jersey-born Wales Under-21 player played a part in Exeter's opening goal.

"He was incredible. He's somebody we've chased for a long time and I think everyone in this stadium could see the reasons why," Caldwell said.

"He could have scored two goals in the first 10 minutes with his runs from deep," he told BBC Radio Devon.

"But his understanding of the game, his ability out of possession to win second balls, I love to see him tackling in the middle of the pitch. He got booked early and he managed to play with it and still show a level physicality and competitiveness in duals that was second to none.

"He can be really happy with his performance, and it's only a start, I think he can give us so much in the second half of the season."

Having gone on a run of 13 league games without a win, City have now won two of their last four matches.

Caldwell is hopeful his side's form has now turned a corner, having seen them drop from top of the table in September.

"I think we have been excellent in the last three games over Christmas and we probably didn't get the points tally that our performances deserve," the 41-year-old added.

"But all credit to the players, they didn't take the disappointment of the result from Monday, they took the positives from the performance.

"We talk a lot about process over outcome and trying to keep the players on that path that they focus on what they can do to influence results and today I thought they were brilliant.

"The understanding of how we were going to win the game, the bravery to play, the opportunities we created, I think we could have scored more goals, and that is the step we need to take as a team that when we are on top it goes three or four-nil and the game is more comfortable.

"But I thought the players were outstanding today and they can take a lot from that."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67910796

[WhiteJC]

'Black smoke' – Club make 'official offer' for Fulham player, Silva's side have turned it down
Fulham's Saša Lukić has mainly been reduced to a substitute role since he arrived at the London club from Torino last January.

The midfielder has been restricted to 47 minutes of action from the last 10 league games. Last week, Area Napoli reported Napoli wanted to offer him an escape route this month and it was also stated they have held talks with Marco Silva's side over a potential deal.

Napoli are keen on signing the Fulham player on a loan deal with an option to buy. That's according to TuttoMercatoWeb, who state the Serie A winners have taken further steps in their pursuit of the 27-year-old.

It's claimed the Naples club have presented an 'official offer' to the Premier League side and that includes a €2.5m loan fee plus the redemption option set at €9m.

However, Napoli received 'black smoke' because Fulham have turned down their formal proposal for the Serbia international.

TMW make no mention of why Fulham rejected the bid or whether the Italian champions will return with an improved offer for Lukić.

Meanwhile, Napoli are closing in on Udinese's Lazar Samardžić and the report states the deal is 'almost done'.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/black-smoke-club-make-official-offer-fulham-player-silva-side-turned/

[WhiteJC]

How Liverpool could line up against Fulham
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is optimistic that Virgil van Dijk will fight off an illness in time for Wednesday's EFL Cup semi-final first leg with Fulham at Anfield.

The Reds captain missed Sunday's 2-0 FA Cup third-round win over Arsenal, and Klopp admitted that the Dutchman looked like "s***" as he reported for training with his bug earlier in the week.

However, the German is "hopeful" that Van Dijk will be fine to don the captain's armband for Wednesday's game, but Wataru Endo and Mohamed Salah are both unavailable due to international commitments.

Klopp has also ruled Dominik Szoboszlai out of the contest due to his hamstring concern, while Andrew Robertson (shoulder), Kostas Tsimikas (collarbone), Stefan Bajcetic (calf), Thiago Alcantara (hip), Ben Doak (knee) and Joel Matip (ACL) are long-term absentees.

Alisson Becker was given the nod in goal at the Emirates, but Caoimhin Kelleher has played every minute of Liverpool's EFL Cup run so far - albeit without keeping a clean sheet - and should turn out at Anfield.

Despite Conor Bradley's bright cameo in the FA Cup and Owen Beck's return from suspension, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez should reprise their full-back roles, while Ibrahima Konate produced a man-of-the-match display against Arsenal and is set to hold his place too.

Jarell Quansah was able to continue at the Emirates despite appearing to tweak his back, but the expected return of Van Dijk would allow the 20-year-old to earn a complete rest in midweek.

Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister appear to be shoo-ins in the engine room, while Ryan Gravenberch should also be considered for promotion to the first XI, potentially in place of Cody Gakpo.

Arsenal's nemesis Diogo Jota also made a positive impact at the Emirates and will threaten to take Harvey Elliott's place in the attack, where Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz are set to continue.

Liverpool possible starting lineup: Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Jones, Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Jota, Nunez, Diaz



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/liverpool/league-cup/predicted-lineups/how-liverpool-could-line-up-against-fulham_533238.html?newsnow

[WhiteJC]

This is why VAR won't be used in Liverpool Carabao Cup semi-final clashes
The League Cup is set to bring in a new ruling which will affect Liverpool's semi-final tie with Fulham.

The Carabao Cup semi-finals won't see VAR used as Middlesbrough do not have the technology in the stadium.

Liverpool are set to face off against Fulham in a two-legged tie starting on Wednesday at Anfield while Chelsea will travel to the Riverside on Tuesday but there will be no assistant video replay in action.

A statement on the EFL website added: "Given the system is not installed at one of the participating semi-finalist Clubs and to maintain fairness and consistency, VAR technology will not be used in the Carabao Cup semi-final stage this season. This is in line with previous rounds of this season's competition when at some grounds, but not all, VAR has been available."

One argument is that it could have been used in three out of the four games, given three of the four are Premier League, but the EFL decided that it would be unfair as the wanted to create a level playing field. People have pointed towards how VAR is used in the FA Cup at Premier League clubs, but not others, and there hasn't been any changes made across the competition.

In terms of the EFL, they decided it was better and fairer not to use the technology in all the games rather than not use it in just one and the original plan was to use it in the semi-finals and final at Wembley.

A spokesman told the Telegraph: "There will be no VAR used in the semi finals because it was not possible for the technology to be used at Middlesbrough. It was decided it was fairer to not use it in any of the four semi final games as a result. The FA took a different approach (in the FA Cup) but we felt this was the way to go. If it couldn't be used in one of the games it won't be used in any of the four semi final legs. However, VAR will be used for the final regardless of who is playing in it as the technology is already installed at Wembley."

Liverpool warmed up for the game on Wednesday with a 2-0 win over Arsenal in the FA Cup over the weekend, a win that means they've won four of their last six in all competitions. Whereas Fulham head into the game in good form themselves, despite an inconsistent campaign; they earned one of their best victories of the season last week by beating Arsenal 2-1 in the league before earning a tight one-goal victory over Rotherham in their FA Cup tie.



https://www.liverpoolworld.uk/sport/football/liverpool/this-is-why-var-wont-be-used-in-liverpool-carabao-cup-semi-final-clashes-4469731

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea, Fulham and Liverpool to be impacted by huge change confirmed by EFL
The EFL have gone against the FA Cup decision when it comes to the implementation of VAR.

This week's Carabao Cup semi-final fixtures will take place with no VAR in operation for 'fairness', the EFL has decided. Middlesbrough play Chelsea at the Riverside Stadium on Tuesday before Fulham travel to Liverpool on Wednesday night.

There is no VAR installed at the Riverside due to Middlesbrough playing in the Championship and, for that reason, the technology will be turned off for all four of the semi-final legs. VAR could have been used in three of the four matches - at Anfield, Stamford Bridge and Craven Cottage - but the EFL has ruled that would be unfair.

The decision goes against the decision taken for the FA Cup this season where the technology is used wherever possible. For instance, it was in action for West Ham's clash with Bristol City at the London Stadium on Sunday but won't be available in the replay at Ashton Gate next week.

A spokesman told Telegraph Sport: "There will be no VAR used in the semi-finals because it was not possible for the technology to be used at Middlesbrough. It was decided it was fairer to not use it in any of the four semi-final games as a result. The FA took a different approach (in the FA Cup) but we felt this was the way to go. If it couldn't be used in one of the games it won't be used in any of the four semi-final legs.

A statement on the EFL website added: "Given the system is not installed at one of the participating semi-finalist Clubs and to maintain fairness and consistency, VAR technology will not be used in the Carabao Cup semi-final stage this season. This is in line with previous rounds of this season's competition when at some grounds, but not all, VAR has been available."

The EFL did confirm that VAR would return for the final at Wembley Stadium on February 25. Chelsea will be favourites to reach Wembley with their draw against 12th placed Championship side Middlesbrough, as Mauricio Pochettino chases his first trophy as Blues boss. Meanwhile, Fulham will be the underdogs against in-form Liverpool in an all-Premier League semi-final.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/chelsea/chelsea-fulham-and-liverpool-to-be-impacted-by-huge-change-confirmed-by-efl-4469824

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool starting lineup to face Fulham in the Carabao Cup – predicted
Liverpool play their last game for 11 days, with the first cup final of the season in sight.

The Reds know a strong home performance before the mini-break could all but assure their first trip to Wembley since the 2022/23 Community Shield.

The Carabao Cup semi-final with Fulham could hardly come at a better time for Liverpool form-wise. Jurgen Klopp's men have won three in a row in all competitions and come into this one having just stunned Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium in the FA Cup third round.

Liverpool are also unbeaten at home and can call on recent memories of one of the games of the season in their 4-3 win over Fulham at the start of December.

A better defensive display will be appreciated this time around. Scoring higher quality goals will be next to impossible.

Here's how Klopp could line up his side to face Fulham for the semi-final first leg.

Goalkeeper & Defence
While Alisson Becker was preferred for the trip to the Emirates in the FA Cup on Sunday, Caoimhin Kelleher has started every one of the Reds' Carabao Cup games thus far. It would be unlike Klopp to drop him at this stage.

Given there is an 11-day break between this game and Liverpool's next outing, there's little reason to suspect, Klopp won't field a strong side on Wednesday in the hopes of getting the job done in the first leg at home.

The hero the last time these two sides met a month ago, Trent Alexander-Arnold should continue at right back, with captain Virgil van Dijk likely to be fit again following the illness that left him looking like 'sh*t' prior to the trip to Arsenal.

Ibrahima Konate put in a Man of the Match shift at the Emirates but his minutes are still being carefully managed. Jarell Quansah could be in line for another cup run out – having also played all the Reds' Carabao Cup games in 2023/24.

Joe Gomez could get a rest here, after playing three full matches in a row. The recently recalled Owen Beck is an option to deputise.

Midfield
With Wataru Endo away at the Asian Cup and Thiago, Stefan Bajcetic and Dominik Szoboszlai all injured, Klopp options in the centre of the park are limited.

Alexis Mac Allister will start at the base of midfield, while Ryan Gravenberch – who was a second-half sub against Arsenal – may be a fresher option to start on the left side of the three, despite Curtis Jones' impressive double in the quarters against West Ham.

Harvey Elliott should continue on the right side in the absence of Szoboszlai, while youngsters like Bobby Clark and James McConnell could be in the matchday squad once again.

Attack
Luis Diaz shone in the second half against Arsenal when moved to the right side of the front line. The Colombian may be used there from the start against Fulham to compensate for Salah's unavailability.

Diogo Jota – another one whose game time is being carefully managed – may have done enough to earn a start with his recent displays. The Portugal international is the Reds' second-top scorer in 2023/24 after Salah.

After that, it's a toss up between Darwin Nuñez and Cody Gakpo through the centre, though the Dutchman is fresher, having only played an hour versus Arsenal.

Gakpo has also been a regular in this competition to date and no Liverpool player has scored more than his three.

Predicted starting XI to face Fulham:
(4-3-3): Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Beck; Elliott, Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Diaz, Gakpo, Jota.



https://anfieldwatch.co.uk/liverpool-starting-lineup-to-face-fulham-carabao-cup-semi-final-first-leg-predicted/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham and Crystal Palace transfer fight brewing over Luton star Teden Mengi
Former Manchester United centre-back has impressed during the Hatters' debut Premier League campaign

Fulham and Crystal Palace are interested in signing Luton defender Teden Mengi.

But Luton see Mengi as crucial to their fight to stay up and insist he is not for sale.

Mengi has started every Premier League match for the Hatters since mid-October.

The 21-year-old centre-back joined last summer from Manchester United, where he had captained the Under-18s and turned out twice for the first team.

His impressive performances have attracted attention, with Palace and Fulham now both interested in pursuing Mengi as an option in the heart of defence.

But Luton will not sanction the sale of key players this month, as they bid for Premier League survival.

Luton manager Rob Edwards insisted last week that Luton would not "weaken" themselves in the January transfer window.

Bids for Mengi must therefore wait until the summer to be considered.

Fulham are not in immediate need for a centre-back, but succession planning is understandable given that Tim Ream turns 37 this year and Tosin Adarabioyo's future remains uncertain.

Meanwhile, Palace have started first-choice centre-back pairing Marc Guehi and Joachim Andersen in all but one of their 20 Premier League games so far this season.

James Tomkins, 34, is out of contract this summer, and Palace are already tracking a number of young defenders, including Cristhian Mosquera of Valencia and Peterborough's Ronnie Edwards.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-crystal-palace-teden-mengi-transfer-b1130968.html

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool vs Fulham: Match Preview | Carabao Cup Semi-Final | Leg 1 of 2
Can Liverpool continue their march in the Carabao Cup? Or will Fulham prove to be the thorn in Jurgen Klopp's juggernaut?

Liverpool will play Fulham in the Carabao Cup semi-final, after beating West Ham 5-1 in the quarter-final at Anfield on 20th December. Curtis Jones scored a brace against David Moyes' side with Dominik Szoboszlai and Mohamed Salah scoring a goal each to propel the Reds to the semi-finals of the League Cup.

Jurgen Klopp's men will play against The Cottagers at home on 10th January with kick-off at 8 PM GMT. Fulham incidentally, played their QF game in Merseyside, beating Everton on penalties after regulation time ended with the scores level at a goal each. The other semi-finalists include Mauricio Pochettino's Chelsea and Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough.

This is the furthest Fulham have been in the League Cup and they are up against the side with the most EFL Cups in the history of the competition. Nine-time champions Liverpool would certainly look to go beyond Marco Silva's men and the other finalist to extend their trophy cabinet. The Cottagers won against Rotherham in the FA Cup Third Round in their most recent fixture.

The Reds have not lost any of their League Cup matches against Fulham, with their largest win margin coming in a 10-0 win, back in 1986. Steve McMahon scored four and Ian Rush scored a brace in that game. Our most recent encounter against Fulham was an entertaining 4-3 win for the Reds in the early weeks of December in the Premier League. Enough history, let's preview the midweek game.

Team News
Representing their countries in the AFCON and AFC Asian Cup respectively, Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo will surely not be part of the matchday squad against Fulham. Dominik Szoboszlai, who continues to recover from a hamstring injury against Newcastle United will also sit out of this one. Expect Virgil van Dijk © to return to the lineup after illness saw him out of the squad against Arsenal on Sunday. Apart from the long-term absentees, nothing else to report on the injury front.

Predicted XI and Formations
Usual 4-3-3. Conor Bradley was brilliant against Arsenal in his cameo role, so he can push for a place in the starting XI. That would mean Trent Alexander-Arnold in a midfield role exclusively. Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones continue to impress, so they could also retain their places in the XI. A backline of Bradley, Konate, Virgil and Joe Gomez. Caoimhin Kelleher could potentially come in for Alisson.

For Fulham, the usual backline of Tosin Adarabiyo and Calvin Bassey in the heart of the defence guarded by Bernd Leno. Tim Castagne flanking them on the right and Liverpool target Antonee Robinson featuring as a left-back. Joao Palhinha and Tom Cairney have proven to be a strong midfield pivot for Marco Silva, so expect them to start. Willian and Bobby DeCordova Reid on either flank with Alex Iwobi or Andreas Pereira playing behind Raul Jimenez completes what's a very predictable lineup for Fulham.

Recent Form
The Reds are unbeaten in their last five games, with one draw, coming against Arsenal in the league. Fulham, on the other hand, have won and lost two games, drawing one against Everton in the league.

Talking about Fulham's form at Anfield, there's not much to say. They have scored five goals at Anfield since 2012. Three of those coming in December 2023. They struggle a lot at the Fortress, like any other club.

The sooner we secure a decisive lead, the more advantageous it is for Liverpool. Not every match unfolds as in the previous encounter with Fulham, and delaying our approach is not an option. Achieving a two-goal advantage before 45, coupled with a resilient defence, would be an ideal scenario.

Duel to Watch
Plenty here. Antonee Robinson vs whoever starts on the right wing for Liverpool. Tom Cairney and Joao Palhinha vs Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones is a good shout. The trio of Fulham players mentioned are in excellent form across competitions this season, and if manage to keep them quiet, the Reds have a much easier second SF leg for sure.

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luis Diaz will play crucial roles for Liverpool for sure.



https://thekoptimes.com/2024/01/08/liverpool-vs-fulham-preview-carabao-cup-sf-leg-1-of-2-latest-news/

[WhiteJC]

Bayern Munich now eyeing potential move for 'special' 26-year-old Fulham player
Bayern Munich have been keeping a close eye on what's going on at Fulham recently and centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo has now caught their attention.

Defensive midfielder Joao Palhinha has been on their radar for some time having nearly signed for them in the summer.

A report from the Daily Mail now suggests that the 26-year-old defender is being considered by the German champions.

Marco Silva's squad is looking slightly thin right now in a couple of areas due to the start of the African Cup of Nations.

Antonee Robinson is the only recognised left-back, although Timothy Castagne and Kenny Tete can play on that side if required.

In defence, Calvin Bassey has joined up with the Nigeria squad – alongside Alex Iwobi – leaving Silva with three centre-backs.

At the start of the season, you would have expected Issa Diop and Tim Ream to partner up.

However, Tosin Adarabioyo has played his way back into the team and in some style after picking up an injury in the summer.

His Fulham contract is still set to expire in the summer and Bayern are now considering a move for the 'special' Tosin.

It would be a huge loss for the club to lose the 26-year-old to such a big team for no fee.

Convincing Tosin to sign a new deal has to be one of Tony Khan's main priorities over the next few weeks.

Bayern interested in Fulham defender Tosin
The report from the Daily Mail suggests that Bayern 'have also taken soundings regarding' the 26-year-old defender.

However, the club's main focus is still Eric Dier and Nordi Madueke meaning Tosin might be waiting for a few other deals to fall through to earn a move to the Allianz.

Tosin is in a position of power right now, knowing he's just a few months away from having a free choice of clubs.

However, with Bayern only considering Tosin as more of a last resort, he's likely to want slightly more assurance of his future once he leaves Fulham.

Ideally, he changes his mind and signs a new deal as his partnership with Bassey looks formidable at the moment.

Tim Ream might have signed a new deal taking him to 2025, but it's hard to see him being a first-team regular any time soon.

Tosin was an absolute bargain, signing from Manchester City for £2m in 2020.

The club are going to be incredibly hard-pressed to find a replacement of the same standard for a similar price in the summer.



https://www.fulham.news/2024/01/08/bayern-munich-now-eyeing-potential-move-for-special-26-year-old-fulham-player/

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool vs Fulham LIVE commentary: Reds boast strong Anfield record ahead of Carabao Cup semi-final first leg – kick-off time, team news and how to follow
Liverpool welcome Fulham to Anfield this Wednesday evening for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, live on talkSPORT.

The Reds eased past West Ham in December to reach the final four and continued their impressive form in all competitions this season.

Jurgen Klopp's side are top of the Premier League and remain in both cups as they aim to get their hands on some silverware.

A two-legged tie against the Cottagers stands in their way of a trip to Wembley after Marco Silva's men saw off Everton on penalties at Goodison Park.

Liverpool vs Fulham: Good omen
Liverpool being drawn at home for the first leg of a Carabao Cup semi-final is a huge boost to their chances of reaching the final.

That's if they can keep up their form in the fixture, having never lost when playing a semi-final first leg in the competition at Anfield, winning five and drawing three.

The Reds have gone on to reach the final on six of the eight occasions they have started the semis on home turf.

To make things better for Liverpool, they have progressed from all five of their previous League Cup ties against Fulham.

Most recently, they won 3-0 in the quarter-final en route to winning the title in 2001.

So, if history repeats itself, Klopp's side are in good shape to reach Wembley, but Fulham will be out to put an end to their unwanted streak this week.

    Liverpool have lost just one of their last 11 meetings with Fulham (W8 D2) in all competitions (all in the Premier League since 2012) and have already beaten them 4-3 at Anfield this season.
    Fulham knocked out Liverpool's neighbours Everton on penalties in the quarter-final. There have been four occasions of a team eliminating both Merseyside clubs in the same League Cup campaign – Man City in 1969-70 and 2015-16 (won the trophy both times), Arsenal in 2006-07 (lost the final) and Chelsea in 2007-08 (lost the final).

Liverpool vs Fulham: Team news
Liverpool will be hoping that captain Virgil van Dijk is fit to play in the semi-final after he missed the Reds' FA Cup win over Arsenal.

Van Dijk was ruled out due to illness but he may have recovered in time for this one.

Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo are away with their national teams while Dominik Szoboszlai is ruled out through injury.

Andy Robertson, Kostas Tsimikas, Stefan Bajcetic, Thiago, Joel Matip and Ben Doak are also all sidelined.

As for Fulham, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Fode Ballo-Toure are all away at AFCON.

Adama Traore and Tim Ream have missed recent games with knocks and are expected to miss this one too but they'll have an eye on a second-leg return.

    This is Fulham's first appearance in the League Cup semi-finals. The last time a first-time semi-finalist reached the final of the competition was in 2012-13, with Bradford City and Swansea City both doing so.
    Liverpool are making their 19th appearance in the League Cup semi-finals, more than any other side. They've also reached the final (13) and won the competition (9) more times than anyone else.

Liverpool vs Fulham: What has been said?
Liverpool are top of the Premier League and remain in all three cup competitions this season as they compete for silverware on all fronts.

Klopp doesn't want to get carried away though, with there still being a long way to go.

He said: "No. I can't (read into it). It doesn't mean nobody can, but I can't.

"We don't have a problem with belief and confidence, we are not really bothered about the things you are talking about because we can read the calendar.

"We see it's January; it's cold outside, stuff like this, and you just have to stay warm and play as good as you can, and that's what we try."

    Harry Wilson, Kenny Tete and Bobby De Cordova-Reid were all on the scoresheet for Fulham in their 4-3 loss at Liverpool in the Premier League this season. The last Fulham player to score in two separate games against Liverpool in a single campaign was Collins John in 2005-06.
    Trent Alexander-Arnold has provided five assists in his last four League Cup appearances for Liverpool, averaging an assist every 54 minutes in these games.

Liverpool vs Fulham: talkSPORT coverage
This Carabao Cup semi-final first leg will be played on Wednesday, January 10.

Kick-off at Anfield is scheduled for 8pm.

talkSPORT will have live coverage of the game.

Commentary will come from Sam Matterface and former England striker Dean Ashton.

talkSPORT.com will also be running a live blog of all the action.



https://talksport.com/football/1703904/

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool vs Fulham - Carabao Cup: TV channel, team news, lineups and prediction

    Liverpool host Fulham in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie on Wednesday
    Reds thrashed West Ham to progress into last four
    Fulham squeaked past Everton on penalties in their quarter-final

It's an all-Premier League affair at Anfield on Wednesday night when Liverpool host Fulham in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie.

Jurgen Klopp's side will fight on four fronts during the second half of 2023/24 and this competition is an excellent chance to win some silverware before the run-in. Liverpool are the current favourites to win the Carabao Cup.

However, Fulham gave the Reds a scare on their last visit to Anfield as they took a 3-2 lead into the closing stages before the hosts staged a dramatic late turnaround.

After suffering three straight defeats over the Christmas period, Fulham have won back-to-back games and, like Liverpool, were able to progress into the FA Cup fourth round over the weekend.

Here's 90min's preview Wednesday's semi-final first leg.

What time does Liverpool vs Fulham kick-off?
    Location: Liverpool, England
    Stadium: Anfield
    Date: Wednesday 10 December
    Kick-off Time: 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
    Referee: David Coote

Liverpool vs Fulham H2H Record (Last Five Games)

    Liverpool: 2 wins
    Fulham: 2 wins
    Draws: 1

    Last meeting: Liverpool 4-3 Fulham (3 December 2023) - Premier League

Current Form (Last Five Games)

    Liverpool: WDWWW
    Fulham: WLLWW

How to watch Liverpool vs Fulham on TV and live stream

Country	TV channel/live stream
United Kingdom	Sky Ultra HD, Sky Sports Main Event,  Sky Sports Football, SKY GO Extra
United States	ESPN+
Canada	DAZN

Liverpool team news
Virgil van Dijk missed Sunday's FA Cup win at Arsenal through illness but the defender is expected to return to the starting lineup in midweek. Young Jarell Quansah could drop out of the team.

Left-backs Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimkas remain out of action, so Joe Gomez will continue in the team.

Klopp previously ruled Dominik Szoboszlai out of the Arsenal trip and this game with a hamstring problem, while Stefan Bajectic, Thiago Alcantara, Joel Matip and Ben Doak are also sidelined.

Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo are away on international duty.

Liverpool predicted lineup vs Fulham
Liverpool predicted lineup vs Fulham (4-3-3): Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Elliott, Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Diaz, Gakpo, Jota.

Fulham team news
Marco Silva has no fresh injury concerns from Friday's victory over Rotherham, although both Adama Traore and Tim Ream were absent and neither player is expected to return at Anfield.

Raul Jimenez, Joao Palhinha, Willian and Tom Cairney are among those that will return to the starting lineup on Wednesday night.

Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey are both with the Nigeria squad at AFCON.

Fulham predicted lineup vs Arsenal
Fulham predicted lineup vs Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, Tosin, Diop, Robinson; Palhinha, Cairney; De Cordova-Reid, Pereira, Willian; Jimenez.

Liverpool vs Fulham score prediction
Despite only recently suffering three successive losses, Silva's Fulham have been very impressive this season given their summer losses and a resurgent Raul Jimenez has been crucial to their success.

The Mexican gives the visitors a chance against the Premier League table-toppers over two legs, as does the ball-winning machine that is Joao Palhinha.

However, Liverpool have shown as of late that they don't need to be at their absolute to triumph. They haven't tasted defeat domestically since September and although Fulham came close to ending their winning run at Anfield in December, it's hard to envisage the visitors getting over the line on Wednesday.

Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Fulham



https://www.90min.com/posts/liverpool-vs-fulham-carabao-cup-tv-channel-team-news-lineups-prediction-10-1-24

[WhiteJC]

Willian and eight other Fulham stars set to leave club this summer as it stands
Fulham will need to work on internal deals as well as incomings this January transfer market.

While there have been moments of real promise for Fulham in recent months, supporters will no doubt be hoping the club can strike some good business this January window to ensure results such as 5-0 wins over Nottingham Forest and West Ham are common occurrences rather than a flash in the pan.

There's also work to be done behind the scenes at Craven Cottage to ensure some of the current first-team stars aren't headed out the doors for free this summer. Nine Fulham players are set to see their contracts expire at the end of the campaign as it stands.

The Premier League outfit must decide whether to embark on contract talks, look to cash in on the stars or accept their fate as free agents come the end of the campaign.

1. Kenny Tete
Fulham contract set to expire this summer but club do have an option to trigger another year.

2. Tosin Adarabioyo
Extended his contract in January 2023 to last until the end of the current season.

3. Bobby De Cordova-Reid
Also extended his contract in January 2023 to last until the end of the current season.

4. Willian
Extended his deal last August to last until the end of this season.

5. Marek Rodak
Signed a four-year contract extension in May 2020 but Fulham have the option of triggering another year.

6. Fode Ballo Toure
Season long loan from AC Milan will end this summer.

7. Tyrese Francois
Signed a two-year contract extension in July 2022.

8. Harvey Araujo
Signed a three-year deal in September 2021.

9. Jay Williams
Signed a season-long contract extension last summer.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/willian-and-eight-other-fulham-stars-set-to-leave-club-this-summer-as-it-stands-4470370

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa and Fulham eyeing up move for free transfer of Brazilian forward – PL duo seen as 'toughest competition'
With a contract expiring at the end of the season, Felipe Anderson is becoming a target for a number of clubs, including Aston Villa and Fulham.

That's according to Calciomercato.it, who report the Premier League duo are proving to be the 'toughest competition' for the other clubs interested in the Brazilian.

It's explained that both Aston Villa and Fulham are monitoring the forward's situation, as Lazio continue to do their best to tie him down with a contract extension.

The winger, were he to choose a move to Villa Park or Craven Cottage, would certainly take little time to adapt to his new surroundings, knowing exactly what to expect from Premier League football from his time at West Ham.

However, they need to be aware that Juventus are also on the case, with the Serie A giants having had more than 'one direct contact' with the player's entourage of late.

A lot will depend on where Anderson sees himself in the foreseeable future, as he remains an important part of Lazio's plans to this day under Maurizio Sarri, but the appeal of a final big move for the 30-year-old could be too good to pass up on if Aston Villa or Fulham come knocking with a contract offer.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/aston-villa-fulham-eyeing-move-free-transfer-brazilian-forward-pl-duo-seen-toughest-competition/

[WhiteJC]

Silva braced for quiet January window at Fulham
Marco Silva says it's unlikely Fulham will be able to bring a striker this month and expects the club to do very little business during the transfer window.

Fulham sold Aleksandar Mitrovic in the summer, but Silva said the Whites are not in a position to splash much of the £50 million they received for the Serbian forward who scored 14 goals last season as the club look to stay within the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules.

"I am happy with squad I have, we made some changes last summer but lost a player that was really important to us," Silva said.

"We had four strikers at the club, including Mitrovic when we signed Raul (Jimenez), and in our mind it was to not lose any other strikers.

"Since we lost Mitro we have not been able to replace him.

"Let's see what happens in the next few days but it is going to be quiet.

"The feedback I got from a financial point of view was that is not going to be possible.

"It makes sense if in the market, if you don't have the capacity to improve the squad or sign someone who can have an impact on the squad it is sometimes better to not do it.

"But it is really difficult. I really believe between this season and last season we were one of the teams with least amount of spending in the Premier League.

"The Premier League is very tough and competitive and of course we would like to have different capacities but this is something that is out of my control.

"Of course I would love to sign someone because the competition is so hard and sometimes we have to be strong in the market to stay competitive.

"I remember last January, some clubs did so well and we were so strong in the second half of the season and had a huge impact on their season.

"But that is the reality for me."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/silva-braced-for-quiet-january-window-at-fulham

[WhiteJC]

Silva: 'Unfortunately, January will be quiet'
Marco Silva has confirmed that Fulham are likely to have a quiet January transfer window.

The Portuguese head coach told his pre-match press conference ahead of the League Cup semi-final first leg at Liverpool:

"I am really happy with the squad – I can't hide from you that I am happy. We made changes last summer, we lost a player that was really important for us. In that moment, as you know, we had four strikers. We had Mitro, Raul – Raul was already in our football club, because when we decided to sign Raul it was not in our mind to lose any strikers. When we lost Mitro, it wasn't possible to sign any more strikers.

Let's see what happens in the next few days. I said that it was going to be quiet. When I said that, it was the feedback that I got in terms of the financial point of view. That is something that just makes sense. For me, it is clear that for us to sign someone, it has to be someone who adds something to our squad – to add quality, to add something or to be at one level that can make an impact. Sometimes you can do this because you have money to do that. When I said it would be quiet, it is because I got feedback that it wouldn't be possible from a financial point of view."




https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/silva-unfortunately-january-will-be-quiet/

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool fans likely to welcome official announcement ahead of Carabao Cup semi-final v Fulham
In an announcement which is likely to please many Liverpool fans, along with those of the other three clubs involved, the EFL has confirmed that VAR won't be used for the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

The Reds take on Fulham in the last four of the competition, with the first leg taking place at Anfield on Wednesday night and the return a fortnight later, while Middlesbrough and Chelsea meet to decide the other place in the final at Wembley next month.

Due to the Teesside club being in the Championship since 2017/18 and therefore not having VAR in place, it's been decided that the technology won't be used at all in this phase of the competition, in order to ensure uniformity across all four semi-final matches.

As explained on the EFL's official website: "Given the system is not installed at one of the participating semi-finalist Clubs and to maintain fairness and consistency, VAR technology will not be used in the Carabao Cup semi-final stage this season.

"This is in line with previous rounds of this season's competition when at some grounds, but not all, VAR has been available. VAR is installed at Wembley Stadium and as per our previous commitment VAR will be used in February's final."

The absence of VAR for the Carabao Cup semi-finals is likely to be welcomed by Liverpool supporters, considering the Reds' experiences with it this season.

No LFC fan will quickly forget the events of 30 September 2023, when a farcical communications mess-up between the officials operating the technology resulted in a perfectly legitimate Luis Diaz goal being disallowed in a 2-1 defeat at Tottenham.

The Reds also had two good goals ruled out in the Boxing Day win at Burnley recently, with Harvey Elliott's disallowed strike especially galling as Mo Salah had been pushed into an offside position, something the VAR attendants failed to act upon.

Some FA Cup third round ties over the weekend passed off peacefully without the technology in place, and the general verdict was that it was refreshing to watch games without the interference of a system which was supposed to reduce refereeing controversies in England, but has actually done the polar opposite.

The Athletic's James Pearce reacted on social media to the news regarding the non-use of VAR in the Carabao Cup semi-finals with dancing and OK-hand emojis, and his reaction will likely have been echoed by many Liverpool fans who've had their fill of the hugely contentious system over the past few months.



https://www.empireofthekop.com/2024/01/08/no-var-carabao-cup-semi-finals/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham, Newcastle United plot Jordan Henderson swoop

Fulham and Newcastle United are both keen on signing 33-year-old former Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson in the ongoing transfer window.
According to a report by Fichajes, Fulham and Newcastle United are both interested in acquiring the services of Jordan Henderson. The 33-year-old England international wants to leave Saudi Arabia and return to the Premier League in the ongoing window.

Jordan Henderson and his Incredible Liverpool Journey
Henderson made a name for himself at Liverpool and led them to all major titles before parting ways with the club in the summer of 2023. He was appointed the skipper of the Reds after the departure of Steven Gerrard, and he went on to achieve great heights with the club.

After 12 long years at the club, he decided to part ways with them last summer. The 33-year-old made the move to the Middle East and joined the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq. He is being paid a fortune to play for them and his personal performances have been top-notch.

But, the English international is still not happy in the Middle East because of the controversies surrounding his move, his team's overall performance and the conditions in that part of the world. As a result, Henderson wants to return to England and is ready to take a massive pay cut.

Which Clubs Want to Sign Jordan Henderson?
With the 33-year-old ready to return to Europe, there are quite a few clubs interested in having him at their disposal. Fulham and Newcastle United are both looking to reinforce their midfield in the ongoing transfer window, and they are interested in the former Liverpool midfielder.

Sandro Tonali's ban has not helped Eddie Howe's cause and with his team struggling, they want to add more quality to the mix. Newcastle United feel signing the former Liverpool skipper could do wonders for them given the amount of experience he has of playing in the English top flight.

Even the Cottagers want to have more options in the centre of the park. They want depth as well as quality. And, Henderson will surely cover all bases. However, signing the former Liverpool captain won't be that easy as he is Al-Ettifaq's marquee player, and they will try their best to keep him at club. Meanwhile, a return to Europe at this stage will help Jordan Henderson make a case for his place in the England squad at the Euros next summer.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/01/08/fulham-newcastle-united-plot-jordan-henderson-swoop/

[WhiteJC]

Magpies drawn away to Fulham in FA Cup fourth round
Newcastle United have been drawn away to Fulham in the fourth round of the Emirates FA Cup.

The Magpies beat Sunderland 3-0 in Saturday's third round Tyne-Wear derby at the Stadium of Light, with a Dan Ballard own goal and a brace from Alexander Isak wrapping up a memorable win for United over their local rivals.

And their reward is a game against fellow Premier League side Fulham at Craven Cottage, as Eddie Howe's men - who were ball number 15, the very last team to be drawn, in Monday night's draw - look to progress to the fifth round for the first time since the 2019/20 campaign.

Fourth round ties are set to take place over the weekend of Saturday, 27th January. A confirmed date for the match and any further details regarding the fixture will be announced in due course.



https://www.nufc.co.uk/news/latest-news/magpies-drawn-away-to-fulham-in-fa-cup-fourth-round/

[WhiteJC]

Newcastle Draw  Fulham Away In The FA Cup 4th Round
Newcastle have just been drawn Fulham away in the FA Cup 4th round.

It's not the easiest of draws and we would have preferred a game at home, but we should be able to ease past Fulham if we play at or near our best.

There's some hope in that statement.

Tottenham have been drawn at home to Manchester City and Chelsea have been drawn at home to Aston Villa.

Here is the full 4th round draw of the last 32 teams in the FA Cup.

Watford vs Southampton.

Blackburn Rovers vs Wrexham.

Bournemouth vs Swansea.

West Brom vs Brentford or Wolves.

West Ham or Bristol City vsNottingham Forest or Blackpool.

Leicester vs Hull City or Birmingham City.

Sheffield Wednesday vs Coventry City.

Chelsea vs Aston Villa.

Ipswich Town vs Maidstone United.

Liverpool vs Norwich or Bristol Rovers.

Tottenham vs Manchester City.

Leeds United vs Plymouth Argyle.

Crystal Palace or Everton vs Luton or Bolton.

Newport County or Eastleigh vs Wigan Athletic or Manchester United.

Sheffield United vs Brighton.

Fulham vs Newcastle.



https://www.nufcblog.com/2024/01/08/newcastle-draw-fulham-away-in-the-fa-cup-4th-round/

[WhiteJC]

Newcastle draw Fulham in FA Cup as Spurs, Man City, Chelsea & Villa face tough ties
Newcastle United will face Fulham at Craven Cottage in the fourth round of the FA Cup later this month following our third round win over Sunderland a few days ago.

The game is set to take place over the weekend of the 27th/28th January, coming just a few days before our trip to Aston Villa on Tuesday 30th January.

Elsewhere, Tottenham will face Man City, Chelsea drew Aston Villa, Liverpool face Norwich or Bristol Rovers at Anfield and Man Utd will face a trip to Newport County or Eastleigh if they get past Wigan tonight.

It's another tricky draw and one of several all-Premier League ties that came out of the hat, but a game we are more than capable of winning after we beat the Cottagers 3-0 on Tyneside last month.

It's actually the first time we've progressed to this stage of the FA Cup under Eddie Howe and comes after Saturday's brilliant win at Sunderland, where we battered the Mackems 3-0 following a second half brace from Alexander Isak

FA Cup 4th round draw:
Tottenham vs Manchester City
Chelsea vs Aston Villa
Liverpool vs Norwich City/Bristol Rovers
Fulham vs Newcastle
Newport County/Eastleigh vs Wigan/Manchester United
Watford vs. Southampton
Blackburn vs. Wrexham
Bournemouth vs. Swansea
West Brom vs. Brentford or Wolves
West Ham or Bristol City vs. Nottingham Forest or Blackpool
Leicester vs. Hull City or Birmingham
Sheffield Wednesday vs. Coventry
Ipswich vs. Maidstone United
Leeds vs. Plymouth
Crystal Palace or Everton vs. Luton or Bolton
Sheffield United vs. Brighton



https://www.nufcblog.co.uk/2024/01/08/newcastle-draw-fulham-in-fa-cup-as-spurs-man-city-chelsea-villa-face-tough-ties/?utm_content=cmp-true