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

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Marco Silva issues fitness update on 'immense' Fulham star ahead of Chelsea derby
The Fulham star was praised by supporters for his performance at Anfield on Wednesday night.

Fulham manager Marco Silva hopes to have midfielder Harrison Reed available for this weekend's derby with Chelsea after his gutsy performance against Liverpool, hailed as 'immense' by supporters.

The 28-year-old put in a tireless performance in the 2-1 Carabao Cup defeat against the Reds as he staked a claim for a more regular starting role. Reed hasn't started a Premier League game since early December and seven of his 17 top-flight appearances this term have come from the bench.

The player was the centre of all the action at Anfield on Wednesday night and it looked as if Silva might have had to bring off the playmaker at halftime following a collision with Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. The shot-stopper's knee impacted on Reed's thigh with the Fulham man needing treatment on the pitch after the half-time whistle had blown - he eventually hobbled off towards the changing room with the aid of medical staff.

Reed appeared after the break and lasted until the 83rd minute as Jurgen Klopp's side came back from a goal down. His showing against the league leaders was hailed as an "awesome" performance and the "standout" player by supporters online.

Speaking in his press conference today, Silva said: "He should be ok. He didn't feel well on the morning before the Liverpool match and wasn't perfect today, but we have some more hours to prepare for the game."

The Fulham manager also previewed the West London derby against Chelsea, kicking off at 12:30 pm on Saturday. The Cottagers are looking for revenge after losing 2-0 at home to their rivals in October.

Silva said: "In London, you have a big number of derbies, but you always have one or two more special ones for the fans. We play for the fans and we know it's important for them."At home, it wasn't our best game. We want to do something different against a very good side. We have to be at a very, very good level because it's going to be an intense game."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/marco-silva-issues-fitness-update-on-immense-fulham-star-ahead-of-chelsea-derby-4476601

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Chelsea confirm huge injury return ahead of Fulham clash

    Ben Chilwell has not played since suffering a hamstring injury in September
    Blues vice-captain to return in Saturday's clash with Fulham
    Benoit Badiashile also available after injury

Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed Chelsea will welcome left-back Ben Chilwell back from injury in Saturday's game against Fulham.

Chilwell, Chelsea's vice-captain, has not featured since suffering a hamstring injury back in September and is yet to play a game with the Infinite Athlete sponsorship on the front of the club's shirts.

It's been a long road to recovery but Pochettino revealed on Friday that Chilwell is finally back in contention alongside centre-back Benoit Badiashile, who has missed three games with a muscle problem.

"Good news about Chilwell and Ben [Badiashile]," Pochettino told his press conference. "Chilly and Benoit I think yes, for sure, they will be involved in the squad for tomorrow. Whenever you recover a player it is important they can be involved."

Pochettino also confirmed Carney Chukwuemeka is in with a shot of returning as well. The 20-year-old has been out since the second game of the season and his absence had become something of a mystery, with very few updates about what initially seemed to be a routine problem.

The Telegraph's Matt Law told the London Is Blue Podcast that Chukwuemeka's knee injury ended up being far more serious than expected and the young midfielder has been forced to work on his running style and body mechanics to prevent further issues.

Pochettino also had a mention for defender Trevoh Chalobah, who was injured in pre-season and has not been seen since. The 24-year-old, who has been linked with an exit this month, is back in light training as he nears a welcome return for Chelsea.

"Trevoh Chalobah has started to work with the group," the boss explained. "We need to assess day by day to see if he can help us. But he doing well. He's been training now with the group.

"I think it's good news that players like Chalobah, Chilwell, Badiashile and Chukwuemeka. They are so close to being involved again and help the team perform."



https://www.90min.com/posts/chelsea-confirm-huge-injury-return-ahead-of-fulham-clash

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Chelsea injury latest as nine to miss Fulham with worrying Christopher Nkunku update
Latest Chelsea injury news with Mauricio Pochettino providing a considerable update on a number of his players ahead of Fulham

Mauricio Pochettino has revealed that two Chelsea stars will return from injury for this weekend's Premier League clash against Fulham. The Blues have been continually plagued by muscular worries and fitness concerns this season, however some of those look set to alleviate for Pochettino for this Saturday lunchtime's London derby.

Christopher Nkunku made his long-awaited debut for Chelsea in December but he has since missed a number of weeks with a hip injury. His absence is certainly made worse by Nicolas Jackson being unavailable for the month of January due to AFCON participation with Senegal.

The initial hope had been that Nkunku would be back from this minor issue quickly, however Pochettino's update on Friday certainly suggests otherwise. "I do worry about the situation of Nkunku," he admitted. "I think it's now [been] 10 days he cannot train. We are assessing him. We don't know what's going to happen.

"I remember my press conference after this happened. It was a small issue and it complicated and it's been between eight and 10 days [since he trained]. We were waiting for him for six months and he was so close again to feeling comfortable. He started the game against Palace and of course, disappointed with that. We want him as quick as possible to be involved again."

Lesley Ugochukwu and Romeo Lavia, who also both arrived in the summer, remain out with the latter, like Nkunku, picking up a fresh issue shortly after his maiden appearance at Stamford Bridge. Injuries in defence have particularly been the main issue with Reece James and Wesley Fofana as the long-term absentees due to serious hamstring and knee injuries, respectively.

Although, Pochettino was on hand to offer a positive update on a previously injured trio from his backline. "Yes, good news about [Ben] Chilwell and Ben [Badiashile]," Pochettino said when asked about Chilwell and Badiashile seemingly in reference to the Chelsea injury report that confirmed they had returned to full team training.

"Also the good news is that Trevoh Chalobah has started to work with the group. We need to assess day by day to see if he can help us. But he doing well. He's been training now with the group." Updates on Carney Chukwuemeka and Robert Sanchez were also provided which hints both could be back in the matchday squad fairly soon.

"We need to assess Carney Chukwuemeka if he will be available or not. But Chilly and Benoit I think yes, for sure, they will be involved in the squad for tomorrow." On Sanchez, he added: "Today he was on the pitch running. In the next few days, he is going to do some running to see how his knee reacts. But it is a very good and positive evolution."



https://www.football.london/chelsea-fc/news/chelsea-injury-latest-nine-miss-28437478

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Fulham 'closely monitoring' 19-year-old striker – Now back in 'top shape' after 'persistent illness'
Fulham are 'closely monitoring' the developing of Hannover 96 youngster Nicolò Tresoldi as he establishes himself in the 2. Bundesliga.

That's according to BILD, who say Fulham may be one of several sides keeping a close eye on the upcoming clash with SV Elversborg because of the striker.

They explain that Tresoldi is currently fighting for a regular place with the German club after getting back into 'top shape' following a 'persistent illness'.

He's already been backed for a bright future in the game and Fulham, alongside Inter Milan, are closely monitoring the German U21's development.

Concrete discussions about a move have not yet taken place with any interested party but 'things can always change' in that department.

They would have to convince Tresoldi into the move, though, because he feels very comfortable in and around Hannover, where he gets regular playing time, recognition and peace to continue his development as he wishes.

All of those are ingredients for a promising career and he is not all that keen to jump ship, even if he could fit in at Inter Milan comfortably.

Thus, he's a name to keep an eye on for the time being, something Fulham certainly seem to be doing.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-closely-monitoring-19-year-old-striker-now-back-top-shape-persistent-illness/

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Fulham set to improve Tosin terms
Fulham are preparing to offer improved terms to Tosin Adarabioyo in a bid to keep him at Craven Cottage, according to the Evening Standard.

The Standard suggests that the 26 year-old has only turned down one offer of a new deal from Fulham – despite reports that he had rejected three sets of new terms from the Whites. Fulham are keen to keep the former Manchester City defender in SW6 beyond the summer when his current contract expires, but Adarabioyo is eager to explore his options having interested AS Monaco and Tottenham Hotspur during the close season.

Recent reports have claimed that Serie A sides AC Milan, Inter Milan and Napoli are keeping close tabs on Adarabioyo, who has made more an hundred appearances since signing for Fulham in October 2020, and he can conduct talks over a pre-contract agreement this month. Marco Silva has been impressed with how Adarabioyo has returned to the first team after missing four months at the start of the season after groin surgery and is keen to retain the ball-playing centre half's services.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/fulham-set-to-improve-tosin-terms/

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Silva seeks 'special' show in derby
Marco Silva has urged his Fulham players to put in a special performance in tomorrow lunchtime's local derby against Chelsea.

The Portuguese head coach wants to improve on a disappointing display in the reverse fixture at Craven Cottage in early October. He told his pre-match press conference earlier this afternoon:

"It's a special one, no doubt about it. In London you have a big number of derbies, but you always have one or two that are more special for the fans. We play for the fans, and we know how certain games are important for them, and this is one of these games. At home, it wasn't our best game. We want to do something different against a very good side. We have to be at a very, very good level because it's going to be an intense game."

Silva knows that, despite Chelsea's sub-par form, Fulham will face a serious test at Stamford Bridge.

"They have not been as consistent as they would like, for sure, but of course they have the quality, a big squad, high quality, individual quality that can decide a game in any moment of the match. We have to be at a very, very good level because it's going to be an intense game. A derby is always challenging, a lot of situations that are going to demand from ourselves to be at our best level. They've got a really good manager as well, and it's going to be a very tough game for us."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/silva-seeks-special-show-in-derby/

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Newcastle Utd fans furious as FA Cup decision leaves them "no option"
Newcastle United fans are furious with the FA and TV broadcasters for "no consideration" for matchday travelers with the club's fourth-round FA cup tie against Fulham.

The Toon Army were chuffed after beating local rivals Sunderland 3-0 away from home in a derby day win in the third round of the FA Cup.

However, joy has quickly turned into frustration as traveling supporters could be left stranded in London as they face Fulham away at Craven Cottage for their fourth-round tie.

With kick-off set for 7pm GMT on Saturday, January 27, could mean many are left in the country's capital as the last train bound for Newcastle departs Kings Cross at 9pm.

Newcastle United Supporters Trust slam 'appalling' FA Cup kick-off time
Eddie Howe's side will be taking on Fulham in their fourth round FA Cup fixture, which has been selected for broadcast on ITV. Fans as well as the Newcastle United Supporters Trust have criticized the 'appalling' decision which they claim has given no thought to travelling supporters.

"Once again we are appalled at the lack of thought given to traveling supporters ahead of our FA Cup match at Craven Cottage," the NUSC wrote in a statement.

"A 7pm kick-off leaves supporters with no option of catching a train home with the last train for Newcastle departing Kings Cross at 9pm, leaving thousands now looking for accommodation in London with only two weeks notice."

They added: "The financial and logistical burden imposed on traveling fans 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."

Furthermore, the Newcastle United Supporters Trust is urging for significant changes to be put in place to ensure that fans are prioritized when it comes to TV scheduling of games.

Not only that, following the FA Cup tie, Newcastle United fans will be traveling to face Aston Villa in a mid-week Premier League fixture scheduled for 8:15pm just days later.



https://www.dexerto.com/football/newcastle-supporters-furious-over-no-consideration-with-fa-cup-tv-selection-2474312/

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Fulham deal could be a help and not a hindrance to Bristol City rising star: View
Bristol City are in the market for attacking reinforcements this month it would seem.

    Bristol City has shown interest in Fulham's Rodrigo Muniz for a potential loan deal, which could add attacking impetus to the team's play-off aspirations.
    Muniz has had limited opportunities in the Premier League and a loan move to the Championship would make sense for his development.
    The addition of Muniz could benefit Tommy Conway, Bristol City's top scorer, by providing rotation, easing pressure, and spurring competition for places.

Bristol City have experienced a quiet January transfer window thus far regarding comings and goings.

One man that is on their radar though is Fulham's Rodrigo Muniz, with a potential loan deal reportedly of interest to them.

Adding that extra attacking impetus could be what Liam Manning needs to propel his side into the play-off positions.

Some may think that a move for Muniz could come at the detriment of Tommy Conway but it would actually benefit the Bristol City youngster, and here is why.

Fulham forward potentially arriving at Ashton Gate
Bristol City have their sights set on the Fulham forward but one stumbling block could be the reported interest from Championship rivals Queens' Park Rangers.

Journalist Darren Witcoop reports that both teams have made inquiries about the Brazilian and it is the Robins who will fancy their chances of landing him given how the table is shaping up.

Muniz has started just three times in the Premier League at the time of writing alongside five outings off of the bench.

In his 316 league minutes, he hasn't found the back of the net yet although he did score in the 3-1 EFL Cup win over Ipswich Town at Portman Road.

Overall, opportunities are few and far between for Muniz in what is a pivotal time for his development so a loan move to the league below makes a lot of sense for all parties involved.

Bristol City is a fascinating landing spot for the 22-year-old given that they are only a few points outside of the top six but they are lacking a bit of cutting edge in the final third.

Conway leads the team with seven goals and they have been a little over-reliant on him up top, enter Rodrigo Muniz.

The pathway for Bristol City rising star
As previously mentioned, Conway is the crown jewel of Manning's frontline, scoring six times from 1,133 minutes in the 2023/24 Championship campaign.

The youngster scored the equaliser away at West Ham United in the last outing to send their FA Cup third round tie to a replay in Bristol - keeping his cool to fire across Łukasz Fabianski into the bottom corner with a composure that has been missing at times this term.

His talent is there to see but at times he's looked a little lost in the one-striker system favoured by Manning and the addition of Muniz may not be the worst thing in the world for him.

Naturally, there will be concerns it could hinder his development but that is not necessarily the case. In a hectic Championship calendar, a bit of extra rotation could be good for the 21-year-old, who has suffered with injury issues since stepping up to senior level properly at the start of last season.

It would take some of the pressure off Conway's shoulders as the club's only source of regular goals up top - with Nahki Wells struggling to contribute much so far this term - but could also provide some positive competition for places, hopefully spurring the homegrown forward on, while having a physical striker like Muniz in the dressing room and on the training ground should help the academy graduate flesh out his own game.

The positives from the perspective of Manning and the squad are clear to see but Conway, too, could be a beneficiary if the Fulham deal is done.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-deal-could-be-a-help-and-not-a-hindrance-to-bristol-city-rising-star-view/

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The former £40m Man Utd renegade who could be Fulham's perfect January bargain
The Cottagers have been linked with a potential swoop for Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic.

It's all kicking off in Rennes! Well, kind of. The unfurling debacle is centred around former Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic, who rocked up in Brittany over the summer, and has seemingly spent the entirety of his time since trying to engineer a swift departure.

As recently as mid-August, the Serbian was on the books at AS Roma, but left the Italian capital to pen a two-year contract with Ligue 1 outfit Stade Rennais in the dying embers of the summer transfer window. So far, so 'discoverable on a Wikipedia deep dive approximately one whole decade from now'. Complications arose, however, when Matic suddenly and unexpectedly went AWOL. Then again, if it had been expected, he wouldn't be absent without leave, would he?

Anyways, in response to Matic's apparent desertion, Stade Rennais put out a statement branding his behaviour as 'wholly incomprehensible' and claiming that 'every aspect necessary to the full integration of Nemanja Matic and his entourage has been carried out with the utmost transparency'. Big words.

For his part, the 35-year-old retorted with a statement of his own, explaining: '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 three 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'.

There have since been suggestions that Matic spent his absent period in London, and that he was misled over the ease with which he would be able to find appropriate schooling for his kids upon joining the club, although everything remains somewhat hazy and unsubstantiated. Regardless, it would appear that the damage may already have been done. Further reports claim that the midfielder has emptied his training ground locker, has removed himself from Stade Rennais' first team squad group chat, and that a January exit could be on the cards. Again, how much of this is just hysterical speculation remains to be seen.

If Matic is to leave, however, there is the very real prospect that he could return to the Premier League. According to respected journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Fulham 'want' to sign him this month, and could look to make their move if and when a transfer is sanctioned.

Competition will be fierce, though. Reports in France suggest that Lyon are also in the running for the veteran star, and that they have already reached an agreement over personal terms. Nothing is concrete, however, and if the past few weeks has taught us anything, it's that Matic is no stranger to sudden changes of heart. And that he really likes London. Apparently.

Either way, Fulham could do an awful lot worse than swooping for the three-time Premier League title winner in the coming days, provided he becomes available. Matic knows the English top flight inside out, evidently still has a lot to offer, even if it is in a slightly reduced capacity, and would presumably be allowed to leave France for a bargain fee. The midfielder only cost Stade Rennais £2.6 million a few months ago, and his current employers are hardly in a strong position to negotiate a lofty price tag.

In fact, in many respects, any potential transfer would bring to mind the deal that brought Willian to Craven Cottage a little while ago. All the ingredients are there: the ageing professional seemingly past his prime, the apparent desire to prioritise playing football and a harmonious personal life over the pursuit of silverware, the obvious spot waiting in a squad that, while by no means weak, could always do with a little added quality and experience here and there.

At this stage, there are still countless moving parts to consider in this bizarre French saga, but if everything falls into place, and if Matic does find himself looking for a new club between now and the end of the month, Fulham could be major beneficiaries.



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/fulham/the-former-man-utd-renegade-who-could-be-fulham-perfect-january-bargain-4475984

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Fulham 'are tempting him' – Director fails to convince player to join his club, prefers move elsewhere
Fulham are today getting some interesting news in their chase for Atlético Madrid defender Çağlar Söyüncü.

According to Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, the Whites made a €20m offer to sign the player this month, while other interested sides such as Fenerbahce, Porto and AS Roma are only trying for a loan.

That doesn't mean Fulham have an advantage, though. That's because the report says Söyüncü prefers to go out on a temporary spell, with Marco Silva's side staying as the 'last option'.

A different update on the defender's future is also brought by AS, who claim that Fenerbahce have failed with their attempt. It's said that they sent a director to Madrid to find a deal with the club and player, but the 27-year-old does not want a move to the Turkish league.

The Spanish outlet claims Fulham, Roma and Porto are the clubs 'tempting him' more than the Istanbul side, and they don't bring any details on the offers.

That seems like a bright scenario for the Whites, who now need to fully understand what the player wants to have a chance of winning this competition.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-tempting-director-fails-convince-player-join-club-prefers-move-elsewhere/

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Chelsea vs Fulham: Anthony Taylor to referee Premier League clash
The officials have been confirmed for Chelsea's Premier League clash against Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

It's the west London derby and Chelsea are hoping to claim the league double over their neighbours as 10th take on 13th at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea claimed a 2-0 win over Marco Silva's side back in October after two goals in a minute from Mykhailo Mudryk and Armando Broja sealed bragging rights for the Blues at Craven Cottage.

Silva is expecting another tough battle against Pochettino, who is hoping to bounce back immediately following a shock 1-0 defeat to Middlesbrough on Tuesday night in the 1st leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie.

"We are going to play against Chelsea, I have huge respect for him as well," admitted the Fulham boss pre-match.

"We have a very good relationship and a good connection (Pochettino). They're a very good side with a very good manager as well and I'm sure it will be a very tough game for us."

Now the officials for the league meeting have been revealed by the Premier League ahead of the encounter.

Referee
The Premier League have confirmed that Anthony Taylor will take charge of the meeting in London.

Assistants
Anthony Taylor will be supported by Gary Beswick and Adam Nunn on the touchline.

Fourth Official
Simon Hooper has been named as the Fourth Official for Saturday's match, with the referee overseeing conduct within the two dugouts, and the behaviour of Mauricio Pochettino and Marco Silva.

VAR/Assistant VAR
Overviewing proceedings from Stockley Park on Saturday afternoon will be Michael Salisbury, who has been named as the Video Assistant Referee, with the Assistant Video Assistant Referee being Adrian Holmes.



https://absolutechelsea.com/confirmed-officials-anthony-taylor-chelsea-fulham-premier-league/7565/

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Chelsea, Man Utd and Fulham keeping close tabs on Ligue 1 sensation named in Team of the Year
Chelsea, Manchester United and Fulham are set to watch Le Havre defender Arouna Sangante in action this weekend against Lyon, TEAMtalk can reveal.

The 21-year-old has emerged on the radar of a number of top clubs across Europe after impressing for Le Havre in the last 18 months.

The Senegalese centre-half was a stand-out performer for the French club last season and was awarded a spot in the Ligue 2 Team of the Year for his instrumental role in their promotion.

Sangante has carried that form into this season in France's top-flight and is currently the youngest captain in the division.

TEAMtalk can exclusively confirm that scouts from Chelsea, Manchester United and Fulham have made regular checks on Sangante this term.

The powerful defender has helped Le Havre keep six clean sheets in 14 games – including in draws against top clubs Monaco, Lens and Lyon.

Sangante will line up against Lyon again this weekend, with officials from his Premier League suitors set to be in attendance at Stade Oceane to cast an eye over him ahead of potential moves in this month's transfer window.

Le Havre are understood to be willing to cash in on the player for the right price, who is also open to the prospect of proving himself at the highest level.

It's no secret that Chelsea, Man Utd and Fulham are all looking to bring in defensive reinforcements this window as they eye a strong second half of the season.

It will therefore be interesting to see if any of the trio make a bid for Sangante in the next couple of weeks. That will ultimately depend on whether he can continue to impress the club's representatives.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/chelsea-man-utd-and-fulham-keeping-close-tabs-on-ligue-1-sensation-team-of-the-year

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Fulham tell player he's not leaving this month – Winter transfer is 'not a topic'
Good news for Fulham fans who were afraid of seeing the club negotiate João Palhinha's exit in the January transfer window.

A new update on the midfielder's situation is now brought by Sky Deutschland journalist Florian Plettenberg, and it's claimed that the player and his staff were informed that a transfer won't happen this month.

An exit from Fulham in the middle of the season is 'not a topic', says the reporter, regardless of Bayern Munich's chase for him.

Plettenberg claims that Palhinha, who has a 'great character' with 'great mentality', is completely focused on his season with Marco Silva's side. Still, he's 'very disappointed' with the situation as his 'biggest dream' was to join the Bundesliga giants, last summer or now.

Such a big operation indeed sounds complicated for the winter market, so it's not shocking that it doesn't take place now, although it wouldn't be a surprise to see Bayern Munich coming back for him at the end of the season.

Following all the summer drama, Palhinha ended up renewing his contract with Fulham, and is committed to the club until 2028, with an option for an extra year.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-tell-player-hes-not-leaving-month-winter-transfer-not-topic/

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Fulham revive Matic interest
Fulham have identified Nemanja Matic as a potential January signing to bolster Marco Silva's midfield options, according to reports from the contiennt.

The Serbian international, who still has a home close to Craven Cottage, attended Fulham's 2-0 defeat by Burnley just before Christmas and featured on Silva's wishlist after the Whites won promotion back to the top flight. He is set to leave Rennes for family reasons and has emerged as a possible short-term fix for Fulham in midfield, who reportedly face competition from Lille for his services.

Italian transfer expert Gianluca di Marzio has written on his own website that Silva is keen to land the 35 year-old and Rennes 'will not block' his immediate departure. Silva views Matic, who won back-to-back Premier League titles at Chelsea, as a battle hardened midfielder who could provide cover for the likes of Joao Palhinha and Harrison Reed in the defensive midfield role for the remainder of this campaign.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/fulham-revive-matic-interest/

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Castagne: 'We will give everything' to beat Chelsea
Fulham full back Timothy Castagne has promised that he 'will give everything' to end Fulham's winless run at Chelsea tomorrow lunchtime.

The Belgian international has been in an excellent form since arriving in the summer from relegated Leicester City and his consistency has seen him keep the right back shirt ahead of fit-again Kenny Tete. He is fully aware of how important the derby is to the Fulham fans – especially as the Whites haven't won at Stamford Bridge since 1979.

He told FFCTV:

"I've heard about it. Obviously, [Chelsea] are very close to us, so I can see that as well for myself. it's a big one for [the fans], also for us, so we will give everything. We will try to give the fans what they've come to see.

I think it is never going to be easy. It's going to take a big performance for us to win. I think a bit like Arsenal you cannot make mistakes against these teams. That's what got us punished in the first game against them. We didn't create enough, but we are in a different stage of the season and we have confidence. It is going to be a tough game but hopefully we can something out of it.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/castagne-we-will-give-everything-to-beat-chelsea/

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Everton transfer news: Seven-figure Ramon Sosa fee update emerges with work permit no issue, Fulham also interested
The asking price for Everton-linked Ramon Sosa is $15million [£11.8m] and a work permit would not be a problem, according to Roberto Rojas.

The ESPN journalist reported via Twitter on 11 January that the 24-year-old may be a "difficult" deal to get done for Premier League clubs in January, with Fulham also believed to be interested alongside the Toffees, but it is "still early days".

Sosa's agent Daniel Campos revealed last week that he had spoken to Kevin Thelwell during a visit to England [Wilson Gonzalez Bronce, 5 January], while there is uncertainty over the future of current loanee Arnaut Danjuma amid an apparent u-turn on the wide man at Goodison Park.

Rojas wrote: "Been speaking to people in Paraguay & England as Talleres forward Ramon Sosa gets more interest from the Premier League, with links to Everton & Fulham.

"A deal may be difficult to get done this month but still early days in the transfer window. Asking price at $15 million."

On the question of a work permit being an issue he added: "No – played enough games".

Long shot
With the Argentinian season on the brink of commencing this month, and Everton unlikely to be able to shell out seven-figures without a notable sale made, this could be a deal that is one for the summer.

In 35 appearances across all competitions last term Sosa supplied 10 goals and seven assists for Club Atletico Talleres as they finished as runners up in the league, so it is perhaps little surprise that the 24-year-old is attracting English interest.

The three-cap international not being a concern on the work permit front will also work in his favour if he is to be the subject of a Premier League transfer race, but timing-wise it seems unlikely to be imminent.

Injury to Dwight McNeil, although thought not to be too serious according to Sean Dyche, appears to have put a halt to Danjuma's assumed departure to Ligue 1 for now.

And with the other starting wide man, Jack Harrison, on loan from Leeds United it remains to be seen what options on the flanks the manager will be left with in the summer.

The Toffees could easily be needing more than one new addition at those positions at the end of the season, and while it might be steep for the current window Sosa's asking price doesn't seem insurmountable for Everton, pending the outcome of a takeover whoever it might be by.

So if there has already been contact between Thelwell and the agent then it could be that groundwork is being laid done ahead of time.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2024/01/12/everton-transfer-news-seven-figure-ramon-sosa-fee-update-emerges-with-work-permit-no-issue/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham U21s down Derby with stoppage time double
Fulham's under 21s completing a stunning stoppage-time comeback to stun Derby County as two goals in the space of four minutes in added time saw off the Rams at Motspur Park this evening.

Hayden Mullins' side looked set to suffer a rare home Premier League loss after Derby centre forward Dajaune Brown nodded home a finish cross from winger Tony Weston midway through the second half. The visitors were unfortunate not to have put the game beyond Fulham when skipper Darren Robinson rattled the base of the post after a brilliant individual run.

The home side huffed and puffed for a leveller but remained frustrated until the third minute of injury time when substitute Callum McFarlane after Terrell Works had headed Jon Esenga's ball back across goal. Centre half Sam Amissah – who also came off the bench with the young Whites chasing the game – then conjured up an astonishing winner with a venomous volley from the acutest of angles having been set up by captain Ollie O'Neill.

Fulham's back four had something of a makeshift look about it at the start of the contest with Chris Donnell filling in for Devan Tanton, who is again on international duty with Colombia at right back, with midfielder George Okkas continuing to operate on the opposite side of the defence. Derby made the more confident start with Robinson denied an opening goal when Alfie McNally foiled Robinson's far post header before denying the midfielder from the follow-up for good measure.

O'Neill. back in the side after injury, almost headed Fulham in front from an inviting Imani Lanquedoc cross on twenty minutes but his effort grazed the outside of the post. Kristian Šekularac, starting in the number ten role with Luke Harris now on loan at Exeter City, then bent a shot wide of the target after Aaron Loupalo-Bi had seized on a defensive mistake but the Rams remained a threat on the counter with cool defending from Donnell and the alert Idris Odutayo required after Brown had broken away down the left and drilled a low cross-cum-shot towards goal.

Josh King caught the eye again in the centre of the park and produced a peach of pass to put Loupalo-Bi clean through but the Fulham forward was thwarted by a superb save from Jack Thompson. Derby finished the first half on the front foot when Weston sped away down the right flank and fired just wide of the far post.

Jake Buxton's side continued to ask the most pressing questions immediately after the interval as well. Brown sent a header onto the roof of the Fulham net shortly after the restart before McNally magnificently spread himself to prevent Weston from putting the Rams ahead as the winger powered a shot on goal. King fired fractionally wide after being found by O'Neill. but just as the Whites sought to step up a gear, Brown glanced in Weston's cross to give County the lead.

The visitors were desperately unlucky not to make it 2-0 when Robinson rifled his shot against the woodwork after his wonderful run, but that was the cue for Mullins to turn to his substitutes. Winger Terrell Works helped set up McFarlane's equaliser, with the striking making a telling contribution on his return to under-21 action after two months out injured. The striker eventually got his reward having looked threatening almost as soon as he came on – heading over Adrion Pajaziti's floated ball – and then setting up Donnell, who was denied by another terrific Thompson stop.

Amissah, who had only entered proceedings ten minutes earlier as an another late substitute in place of Pajaziti, then crashed home his remarkable winner to spark scenes of delirium among the Fulham players, who had once again been rewarded for fighting until the very end.

FULHAM UNDER 21s (4-2-3-1): McNally; Donnell, Okkas, Esenga, Odutayo; King (Avenall 83), Pajaziti (Amissah 87); Lanquedoc (Works 74), O'Neill, Šekularac (McFarlane 74); Loupalo-Bi. Subs (not used): Varney.

GOALS: McFarlane (90+2), Amissah (90+7).

DERBY COUNTY UNDER 21s (4-2-3-1): Thompson; Oduroh, Moloney, K. Robinson, Bartley; D. Robinson, Fapetu; Weston (Richards 67), Gibson-Hammond, Wheeldon (Hawkins 90+5); Brown. Subs (not used): Shattell, Moore, Jeffcott.

BOOKED: Brown.

GOAL: Brown (66).



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/fulham-u21s-down-derby-with-stoppage-time-double/

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea Matchday Preview
Chelsea v Fulham | Saturday 13th January | 12.30pm | Stamford Bridge | #CHEFUL

The opposition

    Chelsea have struggled with inconsistency once again in the Premier League this season, losing as many matches as they've won, though they do go into Saturday's SW6 derby having taken maximum points from three of their last four fixtures.
    Like Fulham, the Blues had a Carabao Cup Semi-Final this week, albeit with an extra day's recovery having played on Tuesday. They headed up to Middlesbrough for their First Leg, where they were beaten 1-0 by Michael Carrick's side.
    The Whites will look to take comfort from Chelsea's struggles on home turf in 2023/24. In their 10 outings, they've claimed just four wins, though it's worth noting that they held Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City all to draws at Stamford Bridge, too.

Chelsea team news

Chelsea's defence could be strengthened by the return of both Ben Chilwell and Benoit Badiashile, while Trevoh Chalobah and Carney Chukwuemeka are also closing in on fitness once again. Robert Sanchez is on the mend, too, but Saturday will likely come too soon for the goalkeeper. Christopher Nkunku, Reece James and Romeo Lavia are all injured, while Nicolas Jackson is on international duty.

Fulham team news

Adama Traoré remains our sole injury absentee, while Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Fodé Ballo-Touré get their AFCON matches under way in the coming days.

Tickets

This match has sold out, meaning there will be more than 3,000 Fulham fans in attendance at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have advised that visiting fans must be at least 16 years of age in order to enter the ground without an adult.

Weather

There will be sunny intervals in Fulham this Saturday lunchtime but it will still be a fresh one, with temperatures around five degrees.

Player insight

Timothy Castagne may not have been a Fulham player for long, but he already understands the importance that our fans place on the SW6 derby.

"I've heard about it," he told FFCtv. "Obviously, [Chelsea] are very close to us, so I can see that as well for myself.

"It's a big one for [the fans], also for us, so we will give everything. We will try to give the fans what they've come to see."

Coverage

The game will be broadcast live on TNT Sports, while FFCtv subscribers can listen to commentary of the game from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid.

Away fan guide

Supporters can view Chelsea's away fan guide here.

Anti-social behaviour

Supporters can report any discriminatory or antisocial behaviour to a steward, text anonymously to 88777, or use the QR code on the back of seats. Please note the stand, row and seat number of the person, as well as their appearance, height and build. After the game, you can call 02073 863 355 or email [email protected]. You can also report it to Kick It Out via their smartphone app.

Form

Chelsea: LWWWL

Fulham: LLWWL

Top scorers

Chelsea: Cole Palmer (8)

Fulham: Raúl Jiménez (5)



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/january/12/chelsea-matchday-preview/

[WhiteJC]

Up next: Chelsea (a)
Fulham have had very little time to put the disappointment of Wednesday's night League Cup semi-first first leg defeat at Liverpool behind them as they prepare for an opportunity to make more history at Stamford Bridge this lunchtime. It is a measure of how far the Whites have progressed under Marco Silva that Fulham followers felt disappointed not to have been able to hold onto the advantage that Willian worked for them with another exquisite finish at Anfield, but there is the not too scant consolation that the slender defeat leaves everything to play for at Craven Cottage.

Silva himself referenced the quick turnaround between the damaging finale on Merseyside – when his leggy outfit were kept in the tie by a couple of brilliant Bernd Leno saves – and the second instalment of the SW6 derby in today's early kick off. Whilst Chelsea might be having a tough season under Mauricio Pochettino, the Cottagers have an atrocious record at the home of their nearest neighbours. They haven't won at Stamford Bridge in eighteen league meetings since second half goals from John Beck and Gordon Davies secured a 2-0 win in the Second Division – and the Blues have only conceded a single goal in their last eight competitive meetings on their home turf.

Silva's charges have proved adept at writing new history for themselves since returning to the top flight sixteen months ago and they will be motivated by the memory of what the head coach considered a distinctly below-par display at Craven Cottage in October. Compared to the way the Whites dismantled Graham Potter's side in January 2023 – with Carlos Vinicius' first Fulham goal clinching a first derby win in seventeen years – it was all too easy for Chelsea to cruise to a success that would have settled a few nerves in the blue half of west London. It felt less like a derby and more akin to a cruise through the neighbourhood for Pochettino's team that night.

Silva will need to decide whether to take a few tired legs out of the firing line after the exertions of Anfield. Plenty of key performers took themselves through the pain barrier in midweek, especially Harrison Reed, who produced a heroic display in the centre of midfield despite complaining of feeling unwell in the run-up to that mouthwatering fixture. Fulham will have the option of introducing four players who missed the first leg against Liverpool. Kenny Tete, who has lost his place to Timothy Castagne at right back since injuring his groin, was outstanding in last season's goalless draw at Chelsea whilst Tim Ream might be in contention to return in the middle of the back four having made the bench on Wednesday. Captain Tom Cairney's clever utilisation of possession could be handy to give Fulham a foothold in midfield, whilst Harry Wilson may come back in on the right flank.

It is well known that Chelsea don't consider this a significant derby – but they will be looking to bounce back from a dismal display at the Riverside Stadium on Tuesday night when they were outfought by Middlesbrough in the first leg of their own League Cup last four clash. Pochettino's side have endured an indifferent campaign, certainly well short of the levels the former Tottenham Hotspur boss would have hoped for, but they have won three of their last four and will looking to turn the corner at home in 2024 – after winning just four home league matches from ten so far this term.

Pochettino should be able to call on the fit-again Ben Chilwell and Benoit Badiashile, whilst promising midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka will be handed a late fitness test. It is thought that the capital clash will come a little too soon for Trevoh Chalobah as the defender nears a return to match sharpness. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is unlikely to start with Christopher Nkunku, Reece James and Romeo Lavia all still on the treatment table and Nicolas Jackson away on African Cup of Nations duty with Senegal. The Blues will still have plenty of talent on show this afternoon – so it will require another herculean effort for Fulham to end their barren run at Stamford Bridge, but the invincible aura surrounding Chelsea has definitely diminshed.

MY FULHAM XI (4-3-3): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Diop, Ream; Palhinha, Reed, Cairney; Wilson, Willian, Jimenez. Subs: Rodak, Castagne, Adarabioyo, Lukic, Francois, De Cordova-Reid, Pereira, Muniz, Vinicius



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/up-next-chelsea-a-5/

[WhiteJC]

Report: Fulham Offer New Contract To Star Defender

Fulham's Big Decision: Tosin Adarabioyo's Future
Fulham's are to offer a new contract to Tosin Adarabioyo, as reported by Dom Smith in the Evening Standard, has sparked a flurry of interest and speculation in the football world. This move comes amid significant interest from Italian giants AC Milan and Napoli, highlighting Adarabioyo's growing reputation in European football.

Adarabioyo's Rising Stock
Since joining Fulham from Manchester City in 2020, Adarabioyo has developed into a key figure in the club's defensive line-up. His impressive performances haven't gone unnoticed, with interest from Tottenham and a failed bid by Monaco last August underscoring his value. With his contract set to expire in the summer, Fulham's eagerness to retain him is understandable. "Fulham are set to offer Tosin Adarabioyo a new contract," as Dom Smith accurately notes, underscores the club's recognition of his worth.

Contract Negotiations Amidst Interest
The complexity of Adarabioyo's situation is evident. Despite previous reports, Standard Sport clarifies that "Fulham have only had one new contract offer rejected by Adarabioyo," contradicting the notion of multiple rejections. This indicates a nuanced negotiation process, with Fulham preparing to make an improved offer soon. The question remains: will these enhanced personal terms be enough to sway Adarabioyo's decision, considering the attractive options on the European stage?

The Strategic Implications for Fulham
Fulham's strategy in managing player contracts has been commendable. With key players like Tom Cairney, Tim Ream, Bernd Leno, Harrison Reed, and Joao Palhinha securing extensions, and manager Marco Silva's commitment until 2026, the club is building a solid foundation for future success. Adarabioyo's decision will significantly impact this strategy, either solidifying the team's defensive core or opening a gap that will need prompt addressing.

A Pivotal Moment for Adarabioyo
At 26, Adarabioyo is at a crucial juncture in his career. His next move could define his trajectory in the coming years. Staying with Fulham offers stability and continued growth in a familiar environment. On the other hand, the allure of European football, with clubs like AC Milan and Napoli showing interest, presents an exciting challenge and a chance to prove himself on a bigger stage.



https://eplindex.com/102216/report-fulham-offer-new-contract-to-star-defender.html