Saturday Fulham Stuff - 13/01/24...

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Results

Friday 12/01
Burnley	1-1	Luton

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Joao Palhinha dreams of joining Barcelona

Joao Palhinha, valued at around €60 million by Premier League club Fulham, reportedly dreams about joining Barcelona.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, Joao Palhinha is the subject of interest from Barcelona. And the Portuguese international dreams about joining the reigning La Liga champions. But the Fulham midfielder's price tag is an issue for the Blaugrana, who cannot afford to meet the valuation.

The Rise and Rise of Joao Palhinha
Joao Palhinha has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League since joining Fulham from Sporting CP in July 2022. The 28-year-old took little time to make his mark at Craven Cottage. And his exploits have also earned him a more prominent role for Portugal on the international stage.

The Portuguese international has turned out 61 times thus far for Fulham, chipping in with six goals and one assist. Meanwhile, he has made 24 appearances for Portugal. Palhinha's progress at the Premier League club has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs.

A Player in Demand
Bayern Munich wanted to sign Joao Palhinha in the summer transfer window before a deadline-day move collapsed. The Bundesliga champions are still interested, although a winter swoop is unlikely. In addition, many Premier League bigwigs are keen on securing his services. But he is also a target for Barcelona.

Barcelona's interest in Palhinha is understandable. The Blaugrana replaced Sergio Busquets with Oriol Romeu in the summer transfer window. But the veteran Spanish midfielder is on the wrong side of 30 and has struggled to impose himself at the Catalan club. So, it behoves Barcelona to invest in a holding midfielder this year.

Joao Palhinha has thus emerged as a viable target for the reigning La Liga champions. And the Portuguese international dreams of joining Barcelona. But his price tag, worth €60 million, is a problem for the Catalan outfit, who cannot afford to pay the sum that Fulham will demand to part ways with him.

With Barcelona showing interest in Erling Haaland, a move for Palhinha might be out of question unless the Cottagers lower their €60 million demands. It will be interesting to see if the 28-year-old can secure his dream move anytime soon.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/01/12/joao-palhinha-dreams-of-joining-barcelona/

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Fulham interested in Rennes' Nemanja Matic
Former Roma and Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic seems set to depart Rennes, with Fulham interested in the Serbian.

While rumours have linked with midfielder with a return to the Giallorossi, Gianluca di Marzio has provided an update about the situation. His time at Rennes could end soon due to 'personal needs', with the club having released a statement about the veteran.

Matic wants to leave Rennes because there is no branch of the international school that his children attend, with Lyon and Fulham interested in the midfielder. He could yet prove to be an opportunity for an Italian side, with Matic also having released a statement saying that he apologies to the club's fans as he has failed to adapt to his private affairs to the professional ones.

Matic's time at Roma ended in the summer after a stint of one year and he made 13 appearances for Rennes in Ligue 1, playing six times in the Europa League and assisting three times.



https://www.getfootballnewsitaly.com/2024/fulham-interested-in-rennes-nemanja-matic/

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Fulham In Mix For Experienced Midfielder
Fulham are jostling with Lyon for the signature of former Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic in the ongoing winter transfer window.

The veteran midfielder joined Rennes from Roma last summer but he is keen to move on in the winter transfer window.

The midfielder recently missed training at Rennes and explained the international school his children attend does not have a branch in the French city.

Matic has promised that he will find a solution with Rennes but he is keen to move on before the end of the ongoing window.

According to Sky Italia, Fulham are amongst the clubs who are interested in getting their hands on him.

Marco Silva wants to bring in reinforcements this month and Matic's experience is an attraction for the Fulham boss.

The midfielder is vastly experienced and former Chelsea star would welcome a return to London in the winter window.

French giants Lyon are also in the mix and are pushing to land the midfielder from Rennes in January.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/01/12/fulham-in-mix-for-experienced-midfielder/632850/#google_vignette

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'Fulham want him' – Marco Silva's side hover for surprise signing, club won't block exit
Stade Rennais' Nemanja Matić has ended up on Fulham's transfer agenda, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

Last summer, the midfielder joined the Ligue 1 side and he's made 19 appearances this season, managing three assists in the process.

Due to personal reasons, the 35-year-old 'wants to leave' the French club this month and this seems to have alerted Marco Silva's side.

It's claimed both Lyon and Fulham 'want him' this month and his desire to change clubs could encourage them to make an attempt.

Rennes confirmed on their official website that the Serbian had recently missed training and he's explained the reason behind that.

"Unfortunately, due to an error on my part, I was unable to adapt my private affairs to my professional ones. I was unable to enrol the children who had attended, since the beginning of their school career, an international school. For this reason, I was away for the last 3 days to try to resolve this big problem for me and my family and tomorrow I will return to Rennes where I will decide the next steps together with the club," he said.

RMC Sport state the Fulham target made a trip to London with his family, without Rennes' permission.

The French club don't intend to take any disciplinary or legal action against the former Chelsea man. In fact, they have started discussions with his entourage to find a solution.

The report adds Rennes 'will not block Matić's departure' in January and wouldn't prevent him from joining another French club, like Lyon, who have reached an agreement with him.

Rennes will first need to bring in a replacement before sanctioning the Serbian's transfer.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-want-marco-silvas-side-keen-signing-player-wants-transfer-club-wont-block-exit/

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Chelsea forward undergoing medical at Premier League club
Chelsea return to Premier League action when they host West London rivals Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

The Blues were beaten 1-0 by Middlesbrough in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final last time out, and manager Mauricio Pochettino will be keen to ensure his side return to winning ways against the Cottagers.

Ahead of the match at Stamford Bridge, one of Pochettino's forwards is closing in on a move away from the club.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, David Datro Fofana is set to undergo a medical on Saturday ahead of a proposed move to Burnley.

The Ivorian forward joined Chelsea from Norwegian side Molde back in January 2023 but made just four appearances for the Blues during the second half of last season, and was subsequently loaned to German side Union Berlin last summer.

He endured a difficult time in Germany, scoring just twice in 17 matches across all competitions, and he was recalled form his loan spell earlier this week.

Fofana, 21, is now set to sign for the Clarets as manager Vincent Kompany looks to bolster his squad in a bid to avoid relegation this season.

Romano claims that Fofana will join Burnley on loan for the remainder of the current campaign, but that the deal will not include an option-to-buy clause.

The Turf Moor outfit will pay the entirety of the player's wages during his time with the club, and contracts are already in place and ready to be finalised, Romano claims.

Kompany will be hoping that the Ivory Coast international can recreate the form he displayed during his time in Norway, when Fofana netted 24 times in 65 games across all competitions, as well as providing ten assists.



https://www.shoot.co.uk/chelsea-forward-undergoing-medical-at-premier-league-club/

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Fulham to offer Tosin Adarabioyo improved contract offer amid AC Milan and Napoli interest
Exclusive: The defender, who is also of interest to Tottenham, is a free transfer target for Italian sides

Fulham are set to offer Tosin Adarabioyo a new contract.

The centre-back is out of contract in the summer, and AC Milan are exploring the possibility of signing him on a pre-contract deal, with Serie A rivals Napoli also interested.

Standard Sport understands Fulham have only had one new contract offer rejected by Adarabioyo, contrary to reports suggesting there have been three, but the club will table a fresh offer with improved personal terms imminently.

It remains to be seen whether the 26-year-old signs the deal, meaning his future is still uncertain as he enters the final six months of his current deal.

Adarabioyo, who joined from Manchester City in 2020, featured on Tottenham's list of centre-back targets in the summer and was the subject of a failed bid by Monaco in August

Skipper and vice-captain Tom Cairney and Tim Ream both signed one-year extensions until 2025, while Bernd Leno, Harrison Reed and Joao Palhinha all penned new long-term deals.

Manager Marco Silva also pledged his future to the Cottagers, extending his contract as manager until the end of the 2025/26 season.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-transfer-news-tosin-adarabioyo-exclusive-b1131897.html

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Premier League club now take a major step to stop Tottenham from signing their 'special player'
Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham Hotspur are facing a threat in their quest to sign Fulham central defender Tosin Adarabioyo.

That is according to The London Evening Standard, which has noted Fulham's plan regarding Adarabioyo.

So, what has been reported about Tottenham Hotspur target Tosin Adarabioyo? Let's take a look.

Fulham to offer Tottenham Hotspur target Tosin Adarabioyo new contract
Well, according to The London Evening Standard, Fulham will offer Tosin Adarabioyo a new contract "imminently". The defender is out of contract at the Premier League club at the end of the season.

Fulham want the 26-year-old central defender to stay at Craven Cottage beyond the summer of 2024.

The London Evening Standard has noted that AC Milan and Napoli want to sign Adarabioyo on a pre-contract in January. Tottenham Hotspur are also claimed to be keen on the defender.

My View: Tottenham Hotspur do not need Tosin Adarabioyo now
In my opinion, Tottenham Hotspur do not need to sign Tosin Adarabioyo in the January transfer window. I do not think that Spurs need another centre-back now.

After all, Spurs have just completed the signing of 21-year-old Romania international central defender Radu Drăgușin from Genoa.

Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are the two main centre-backs under Spurs head coach Ange Postecoglou at the moment. Tottenham are aiming to finish in the top four of the Premier League table this season.

I do not think that Adarabioyo would be able to get into the Tottenham first team right now even though, according to Fulham manager Marco Silva, he is "a special player" and "one of the leaders" at the London clubs.

Adarabioyo has made 66 appearances in the Premier League so far in his career. The 26-year-old English defender has scored two goals and kept 14 clean sheets in those games.



https://tbrfootball.com/premier-league-club-now-take-a-major-step-to-stop-tottenham-from-signing-their-special-player/

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Wolves 'actively involved' as £19.8m Premier League forward eyed by Fulham and Brentford
The latest transfer news as Wolves, Brentford and Fulham contact the representatives of a £19.8m Premier League winger.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly made contact with the representatives of West Ham United winger Saïd Benrahma but face competition from an array of other Premier League clubs – as well as French side Olympique Lyonnais.

Benrahma has played just 615 minutes in the Premier League for West Ham this season and he looks likely to be moved on this January. Wolves' interest in the Algeria international emerged last week and it now appears some progression may have been made, though not as much as other teams in the fight.

Foot Mercato reports Brentford have now added Benrahma to their shortlist and have made contact with the player's entourage, while Fulham and Wolves are also said to be involved. Lyon are very keen, too, with a contractual offer on the table.

Benrahma is enjoying life in England, though, so might not make the move back across the Channel. A transfer back to former club Brentford might be tempting as some of his biggest successes were in West London. Fulham would be an easy move, too, given they're also in the capital.

Would Benrahma move to Wolves?
Although Wanderers are attempting to bring in Benrahma, the transfer might be risky for the player. It would be tricky to start consistently as Wolves already have Pedro Neto, Hwang Hee-chan, Matheus Cunha and Pablo Sarabia on the books.



https://www.birminghamworld.uk/sport/football/wolves/transfer-news-premier-league-wolves-involved-west-ham-fulham-brentford-said-benrahma-4475643

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Chelsea vs Fulham LIVE commentary: Pochettino under pressure in London derby but boasts dominant record over Cottagers – kickoff time, team news and how to follow

Chelsea will bid to return to winning ways to alleviate the pressure on Mauricio Pochettino when they host Fulham in a west London derby this weekend.

The Blues dismal season hit another low on Tuesday after they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

Their neighbours Fulham were involved in the other first leg the following night and were unfortunate to lose 2-1 away to Liverpool.

Having both come up short ahead of their home return fixtures, Chelsea and Fulham will each seek a slice of redemption.

The teams are sat three places and four points apart in the Premier League, with the Blues in tenth and the Cottagers 13th.

Chelsea vs Fulham: Striker issues
Blues boss Pochettino will once again be forced to rejig his misfiring attack as he looks to end the club's problems in front of goal.

Nicolas Jackson has been Chelsea's go-to man up top this season, becoming the team's second-top scorer in the Premier League.

However, the 22-year-old is away on international duty with Senegal, with Pochettino having no immediate option to replace him.

The Argentine attempted to play Chelsea's top scorer Cole Palmer in a false nine role against Middlesbrough, only to see the England starlet miss a hatful of guilt-edged chances.

Christopher Nkunku has been plagued by a knee injury since his summer switch from RB Leipzig, making just four appearances in all competitions.

The Frenchman looked to have put his fitness issues behind him when he opened his account for the Blues in the 2-1 defeat at Wolves on Christmas Eve – but he has since suffered a fresh hip problem.

In their absence, Armando Broja will likely lead the line to make his 17 appearance of the season – managing just two goals in that time.


Jackson has had his share of ups and downs already in his short Blues career

    No player has been booked in the Premier League more than Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson this season (8), while teammate Conor Gallagher has conceded at least 13 more fouls than any other player (47).
    Cole Palmer has scored eight Premier League goals this season, more than any other player for Chelsea. The only player to score more in a single campaign for the Blues in the competition while aged 21 or younger is Christian Pulisic in 2019-20 (9).
    Chelsea have won both of their last two Premier League games, last winning three in a row in October 2022 (a run of 4). The Blues have also won their last three at Stamford Bridge in the competition, last winning four in succession on home soil in July 2020 (a run of 6).

Chelsea vs Fulham: Team news
The home side are without Jackson and the club still have a series of injuries.

Wesley Fofana, Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez, Trevoh Chalobah, Lesley Ugochukwu, Reece James and Romeo Lavia are definitely out.

Late fitness tests will be needed on Christopher Nkunku, Ben Chilwell, Carney Chukwuemeka and Benoit Badiashile.

Fulham are still missing Adama Traore, while Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Fode Ballo-Toure are all away at AFCON.

    40.4% of Fulham's shots in the Premier League this season have come from outside the box (93/230), the highest share in the division. However, just one of their last 19 league goals has come from distance.
    Fulham have lost each of their last four Premier League away games while conceding 3+ goals in each; only two sides have lost five in a row on the road in the Premier League while shipping 3+ goals each time – Ipswich Town in April 1995 and Barnsley in November 1997.

Chelsea vs Fulham: What has been said?
talkSPORT's Jason Cundy was left seething with Chelsea on the Sports Bar after their 1-0 defeat against Middlesbrough.

He said: "I am absolutely fuming with that, genuinely fuming. How many times have I said this to you?

"I've read this book, I know this game, I've watched it dozens of times this season... we couldn't break down a sandcastle. We would be there until this time tomorrow, honestly it's infuriating.

"[Nottingham] Forest at home, Brentford at home, parts of [Aston] Villa, West Ham away, now you can add to that list, Middlesbrough away.

"And I tell you what, if Middlesbrough play like that and defend like that, they're going to Wembley. Honestly I'm fuming, I'm absolutely fuming."

    Chelsea have won their last two Premier League London derbies, as many as they had in their previous 13 such games (D4 L7). Meanwhile, Fulham are looking to win three consecutive top-flight London derbies for the first time since April 2013.
    Fulham's 10% win rate against Chelsea (8 wins from 77 meetings) is the lowest of the 3,116 occasions of a side facing another at least 50 times in English league history.
    Fulham have won just one of their last 23 Premier League games against Chelsea (D8 L14), beating them 2-1 at Craven Cottage 366 days ago.

Chelsea vs Fulham: talkSPORT coverage
This Premier League clash will take place on Saturday, January 13.

Kick-off at Stamford Bridge is scheduled for 12:30pm.

talkSPORT will have live and EXCLUSIVE coverage from west London, presented by Faye Carruthers.

Commentary will come from Sam Matterface and former England defender Martin Keown.

talkSPORT.com will also be providing a live blog to cover all of the action as well.



https://talksport.com/football/1708333/

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Everton, Fulham vying for Frank Onyeka

Everton and Fulham are both keen on acquiring the services of 26-year-old Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka on loan.
According to a report by The Guardian, Everton and Fulham want to reinforce their midfield in the ongoing transfer window, and they have their eyes set on Brentford's Frank Onyeka. The 26-year-old has not had much game time in the ongoing season and is looking to make a move elsewhere.

Who is Frank Onyeka?
After coming through the ranks at FC Midtjylland, Onyeka joined Brentford in the summer of 2021. He has featured in a total of 65 matches since making the move and has contributed towards three goals.

He has not had the best of times of late as he has had limited game time in the ongoing season. The 26-year-old has featured in a total of 16 Premier League matches but has racked up less than 800 minutes. Onyeka has been a part of the starting XI on just six occasions and has only contributed towards one goal.

Lack of game time has frustrated the Nigerian international, and he wants to part ways with the club in search of regular first-team football. The report suggests that Brentford are willing to let him leave on loan. Despite having extended his stay at the London club last summer, the Bees are ready to sanction a temporary departure.

Where Will Frank Onyeka Land?
Fulham and Everton are keen on acquiring Onyeka's services. The Cottagers want more depth as well as quality in the centre of the park. And with Joao Palhinha's future still uncertain amidst interest in his services from Arsenal and Liverpool, Fulham have registered their interest in the services of the 26-year-old.

As far as Everton are concerned, they are focused on keeping hold of Amadou Onana, who is on the radar of Arsenal. Not only do they want to keep hold of the 22-year-old, but the Merseyside club are also keen on reinforcing their midfield.

While Everton have financial constraints and cannot really sign anyone on a permanent basis, they can sign players on loan and have their eyes set on Frank Onyeka. With Brentford ready to sanction a loan exit of their 26-year-old midfielder, it will be interesting to see who comes out on top in the race for his services.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/01/12/everton-fulham-vying-for-frank-onyeka/

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Eddie Howe has 'sympathy' with fans after Fulham game was moved to 7pm kick-off
The travelling Toon Army have been done over by the TV overlords yet again after the FA Cup tie with Fulham was moved for live coverage.

There are three certainties in life: Death, taxes and Newcastle United fans getting the short shrift when it comes to fixture changes imposed by TV broadcasters.

Newcastle were once again drawn away in a cup competition, something that's so regular it's almost a given now, but that is what it is, there is no conspiracy there, just crap luck.

Newcastle fans are treated like mugs
However, where there does seem to be a conspiracy is when fixtures get changed for live broadcast. The TV companies seemingly have no regard for the difficulties fans face getting to and from away games. With them all being based in London they don't seem to think about the complexities of getting in and out of the Capital when you live so far outside of it.


TV companies have too much power
The Fulham tie has been moved to a 7pm kick-off on a Saturday night meaning that hundreds of fans now face hotel bills on top of the travel expenses and matchday tickets as it's nigh-on impossible to get back to the North East from London late at night.

It's as if they know that our fans will always find a way to take up their full allocation and pack out an away end so it doesn't matter how difficult or costly they make it,

Eddie Howe has sympathy for the fans
Even Eddie Howe has addressed the issue in his pre-match press conference this morning (via The Chronicle).

    "You want a home game for obvious reasons. Unfortunately, it went against us. It's going to be a tough game for us.

    I have sympathy for them [the fans]. We're at the mercy of the TV companies and when they want to schedule games. I don't think enough consideration is given to supporters. To get back from London at that time is going to be extremely difficult and I have sympathy for our supporters."

Newcastle fans will of course still turn up in their droves to Fulham, but as we said, that's not the point. Just because we can doesn't mean we should have to.



https://nufc.news/eddie-howe-sympathises-with-fans-after-fulham-game-was-moved-to-7pm-kcik-off

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Chelsea v Fulham

TEAM NEWS

Chelsea pair Ben Chilwell and Benoit Badiashile are both fit again and will be involved against Fulham.

Carney Chukwuemeka will be assessed, while Trevoh Chalobah is nearing a return but this game could be too soon.

Fulham midfielder Harrison Reed has been struggling with illness but should be fit.

Winger Adama Traore remains out with a hamstring problem and Fode Ballo-Toure, Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi are all away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

    Fulham have won just one of the past 23 Premier League meetings, 2-1 at home on 12 January last year (D8, L14).
    The Cottagers haven't won at Stamford Bridge in 18 league attempts since a 2-0 Second Division victory in October 1979 (D7, L11).
    Chelsea have only conceded one goal in their past eight competitive games against Fulham at Stamford Bridge, keeping clean sheets in the last five.

Chelsea

    Chelsea are aiming to win four home league matches in a row for the first time since July 2020.
    The Blues won only 12 of their 43 Premier League games in 2023 (D12, L19), the fewest they had recorded in a calendar year since 1995.
    They are winless in their opening league fixture in each of the last seven years (D5, L2).
    Mauricio Pochettino has won all six of his meetings with Fulham in all competitions, with his side scoring 15 goals and conceding just two.
    Cole Palmer has scored eight goals and contributed four assists in 12 Premier League starts for Chelsea.

Fulham

    Fulham are aiming to avoid a fifth consecutive away league defeat.
    They have lost their last four Premier League away games, conceding at least three goals in each.
    Marco Silva's side have won just one of their 10 away matches in this season's Premier League (D3, L6).
    Only bottom side Sheffield United have conceded more Premier League away goals than Fulham's 23 this campaign. The Cottagers conceded 24 away league goals in the whole of last season.
    Fulham lost 20 Premier League matches in 2023, a joint-high alongside Bournemouth and Everton.
    The Cottagers are looking to win three consecutive top-flight London derbies for the first time since 2013.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67900156

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Fulham Star Subject Of Enquiries
Championship outfits Bristol City and Queen Park Rangers have lodged enquiries with Fulham regarding the availability of their Brazilian striker Rodrigo Muniz, according to the Sunday Mirror.

The 22-year-old has been a bit part of player at Craven Cottage this season and could be on the move in this month's window.

Muniz, a former Middlesbrough star, has experience playing in the Championship and may be in line to drop back down to the second tier.

Two Championship sides, in the shape of Bristol City and QPR, have contacted Fulham to ask about Muniz's situation this month.

Bristol City and QPR are both in the market for attacking additions and the Brazilian is an attractive target.

The pair face competition however as Muniz is attracting the interest of clubs outside England.

Clubs in Brazil would like to take the former Flamengo hitman back to his homeland, which may tempt the striker.

Muniz, 22, has a deal with Fulham which is due to run until the summer of 2026 and has 41 outings for the Cottagers to his name so far.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/01/12/fulham-star-subject-of-enquiries/632839/

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Chelsea confirm triple injury boost as Mauricio Pochettino faces Levi Colwill Fulham problem
Levi Colwill could lose his place in the Chelsea starting lineup following the return of Benoit Badiashile and Ben Chilwell

Chelsea have confirmed that Benoit Badiashile, Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka returned to first-team training ahead of their clash against Fulham this weekend. The Blues will welcome the Cottagers to Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon as either side looks to climb the Premier League table.

Chelsea head into the west London derby off the back of a frustrating defeat to Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg. Fulham also suffered a midweek misery in the League Cup, conceding a 1-0 lead against Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday night.

Mauricio Pochettino will be desperate to return to winning ways this weekend – and the Blues boss could have a trick up his sleeve following the return of Badiashile and Chilwell. If the 51-year-old is planning to throw the duo back into the limelight then it could cost Levi Colwill his place in the starting lineup.

Like the Cobham graduate, Badiashile prefers operating at left centre-back, meanwhile Chilwell is a natural full-back. Following Chelsea's defeat to the Championship outfit at the Riverside Stadium on Tuesday night, Pochettino addressed Colwill's shaky performance.

"I think we would all agree Levi is a young player that can play in different positions," said the Blues boss. "Last game he played like a centre-back with Axel [Disasi], today we played Thiago [Silva] with Axel, Malo Gusto on the right and on the left Levi.

"We were talking a lot. I think it's for him to take experience in Premier League with Chelsea playing there. I think it will help him be a better player and in the end it is to feel the competition.

"I don't like to compare with another player but if you find some similarities with different clubs who sign players that can play centre-back or play full-back, you can find easily. Look, for me Levi is having a fantastic season.

"He is playing centre-back or full-back and is a player for the future of Chelsea. At the moment, when you don't win, when you struggle and we are a young team with young players and they need to learn and need to improve in the competition."



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/chelsea-confirm-triple-injury-boost-28435396

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Fulham find Palhinha replacement in £20m AFCON star - will fight Everton for 'important' 26 y/o
Fulham know their time with Joao Palhinha is limited and may have found a replacement star from just along the Thames.

Fulham may have found a replacement for wantaway midfielder Joao Palhinha in Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka, according to reports.

The Guardian suggests that the Cottagers may look to bring the Bees' man in on a loan deal this month after ball-winning star Palhinha admitted that he is already planning a future away from Fulham this week. The 28-year-old had a £58 million move to Bayern Munich green-lighted last summer but the deal collapsed when the London club failed to find a replacement.

Palhinha returned to Craven Cottage and has enjoyed another impressive campaign so far, putting in a head-turning showing against Liverpool in this week's Carabao Cup clash. However, before the game, the player reminded fans that he did not see his long-term future at Fulham. He told Sky Sports: "I've always said that I feel the love that the supporters have for me. I know that someday I will leave Fulham. I want to give everything. I'm always 100 per cent professional here, and I will do my job every time that I play for Fulham."

It now appears that Fulham have found a suitable replacement for Palhinha in Onyeka, who is part of Nigeria's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in the Ivory Coast this month. The 26-year-old signed a new four-year contract with Brentford last August but has made just six Premier League starts this season and is believed to want more game-time rather than substitute cameos.

Brentford are reported to value the player at £20 million but could be open to sending the midfielder out on loan this month for a 'try before you buy' situation with interested parties - Everton, Fiorentina, Lens and Villarreal are also touted as potential destinations.

Speaking after Onyeka put pen to paper on a new deal before the current campaign, Bees manager Thomas Frank said: "I'm very pleased that Frank has signed a new contract. He has helped the team a lot during our time in the Premier League.

"During both seasons he has been unlucky with injuries, which have prevented him from taking an even bigger step forward in terms of minutes, but I really like his energy. Frank is a great pressing player. He runs into the half-spaces and in behind, progressing up the pitch. He's a very important player for us and we're looking forward to continuing the journey with him."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-find-palhinha-replacement-in-ps20m-afcon-star-will-fight-everton-for-important-star-4475791

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Chelsea injury update ahead of Fulham
The following injury update has been issued ahead of Chelsea's Premier League game against Fulham at Stamford Bridge.

Benoit Badiashile – returned to full team training.

Ben Chilwell – returned to full team training.

Carney Chukwuemeka – returned to full team training.

Trevoh Chalobah – joined group training as part of final reconditioning stage.

Marc Cucurella – continuing to undergo his rehabilitation programme.

Wesley Fofana – continuing to undergo his rehabilitation programme.

Reece James – continuing to undergo his rehabilitation programme.

Romeo Lavia – continuing to undergo his rehabilitation programme.

Christopher Nkunku – undergoing rehabilitation programme.

Robert Sanchez – continuing to undergo his rehabilitation programme.

Lesley Ugochukwu – continuing to undergo his rehabilitation programme.



https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/article/chelsea-injury-update-ahead-of-fulham

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Fulham 'solidarity' with furious Newcastle United over FA Cup clash
The FA announced its broadcasting plans for the upcoming round of the FA Cup on Thursday night.

Fulham supporters have shared their 'solidarity' with Newcastle United fans with followers of the North East club voicing their frustration at the scheduling of the upcoming FA Cup meeting between the two clubs at Craven Cottage.

The Cottagers beat Rotherham United and the Magpies triumphed in a Tyne-Wear derby against rivals Sunderland to book their place in the upcoming fourth-round. Monday night's draw pitted the two Premier League sides against one another in a tie set to be played by the Thames on Saturday, January 27.

On Thursday night, the FA confirmed its broadcasting plans for the upcoming set of fixtures and announced that the match between Fulham and Newcastle United would take place at 7 pm on Saturday night, leaving travelling fans scrambling for hotels and accommodation for overnight stays. Clubs are compensated with £110,000 in a 'live broadcast fee' by the FA.

The Newcastle United Supporters Trust issued a statement that read: "Once again, we are appalled by the lack of thought given to travelling supporters ahead of our FA Cup match at Craven Cottage. A 7 pm kick-off leaves supporters with no option of catching a train home with the last train for Newcastle departing Kings Cross at 9 pm, leaving thousands now looking for accommodation in London with only two weeks' notice.

"The financial and logical burden imposed on travelling supporters by TV companies is shocking in an industry reaping huge profits. It is always the fans who pay the price.

"The loyalty of our supporters is once again being taken for granted in the knowledge that we will fill the away end regardless of the kick-off time. We urge the incoming football regulator to ensure that significant changes are put in place to ensure fans are prioritised when it comes to TV scheduling of games."

Frustratingly, for Newcastle United fans, it's far from the first time fans have been left having to empty the bank to follow their club. In December, as well as having to pay for travel and hotels in London the week prior to Christmas for the Carabao Cup meeting with Chelsea, the Blues exceeded the Premier League away ticket cap to charge £39. Magpies fans were also made to board buses at 8:30 am from St James' Park to travel to the early kick-off at Sunderland in the previous round of the FA Cup.

After the latest statement from the Newcastle United Supporters Trust, the Fulham Supporters' Trust shared the message and added their "absolute solidarity" with the visiting club. The group said: "Loyal match-going fans deserve better and should always be prioritised over TV audiences."

Fulham fans also shared their sympathy with Newcastle United fans, labelling the broadcasting decision an "absolute piss-take" and sharing "so much respect" for seeing the Fulham Supporters' Trust sharing the message.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-solidarity-with-furious-newcastle-united-over-fa-cup-clash-4475710

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Mauricio Pochettino delivers mixed Chelsea injury update ahead of Fulham game
Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino has revealed that his squad will be boosted by at least two senior players for Saturday's clash with Fulham.

The Blues return to Premier League action on the back of suffering a surprise 1-0 defeat at the hands of Middlesbrough in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final.

Their cause was not helped by having to select an inexperienced substitutes' bench, something of concern for Pochettino who has had to deal with widespread injury issues throughout 2023-24.

However, speaking to reporters at a press conference on Friday, the Argentine revealed that Ben Chilwell and Benoit Badiashile are in line to be selected in the squad for the West London derby.

Chilwell has been absent with a hamstring injury since the EFL Cup encounter with Brighton & Hove Albion on September 27, while Badiashile has not been seen since the win over Crystal Palace on December 27.

Furthermore, Carney Chukwuemeka is on the brink of returning from a knee injury, but Pochettino admitted that Christopher Nkunku remains out of contention for the foreseeable future with a hip problem.

Speaking to reporters, Pochettino said: "Good news about Chilwell and Benoit, and we need to assess Carney Chukwuemeka to see if he will be available or not.

"But Chilly and Benoit, for sure, will be involved in the squad for tomorrow.

On Nkunku, he added: "Of course, a little bit of a worry with the situation of Nkunku because it is now 10 days that he cannot train. We are assessing him. We do not know what is going to happen.

"After six months we were waiting for him and we were so close to feeling comfortable, so we are disappointed with that. Of course we are worried, we want him to be involved as soon as possible."

Pochettino also took the opportunity to address the fitness of Trevoh Chalobah, who has not made a single appearance this season and has been heavily linked with a departure.

However, Pochettino said at the media briefing that the defender had stepped up his recovery from a thigh injury by starting to train with the rest of the squad.

Chelsea play host to Fulham with the opportunity to move into seventh place in the Premier League table, but defeat would see 13th-placed Fulham move to within a point.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/chelsea/injury-news/news/pochettino-delivers-mixed-chelsea-injury-update_533615.html?newsnow

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"Who knows?" – Fulham star admits he could play for 'giant club' in the future, doesn't deny desire
A few years ago, it used to be common to see Andreas Pereira speaking of his love for Santos, with him claiming he was a big fan and would like to play for them one day.

However, before joining Fulham, the midfielder got loaned by Manchester United to Flamengo, and tried to hide those feelings for the Brazilian rivals, claiming all that childhood support had stayed in the past.

Well, it seems it didn't, because as he's now interviewed by ESPN Brasil, Pereira is back to speaking about his affection for Santos.

The Fulham player was asked whether he'd play for the club in the future, and made it clear that's still a desire of his.

"I've always had a great affection for Santos, even though I went to Flamengo afterwards. Flamengo is a club that also lives in my heart, but my whole family are Santos fans," Pereira told ESPN Brasil.

"It was hard to see Santos relegated. We were sad. How can I never say that I wouldn't like to wear the Santos shirt? Santos are a giant club and, above all, it's still my father's team. Everyone in my family is a big fan. It could be that one day, if they want me to... Who knows? Nobody knows about the future."

Andreas Pereira's move to Brazil in 2021 even made it look like that could be the end of a European career for him, but he managed to bounce back when Manchester United sold him to Fulham in 2022.

Now with 63 appearances made for the Whites, the midfielder looks very much committed to the club, with a contract until 2026 which includes an option for an extra year, and it seems there's a long way until he thinks of moving to South America again.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/knows-fulham-star-admits-play-giant-club-future-doesnt-deny-desire/