Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 16/01/24...

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'Scandalous' ticket decision slammed by Newcastle United Supporters Trust as Fulham repeat Man Utd mistake
Fulham v Newcastle United: The FA Cup Fourth Round sees Eddie Howe's side face Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Newcastle United fans will once again be forced into paying £40 for a cup ticket when they visit Fulham at the end of the month. The clash against Fulham will be the third time that the Magpies have been drawn against Premier League opposition away from home in cup competitions this season having already played against Manchester United and Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.

Both of those games saw Newcastle United fans charged £39 and £38 respectively, £17 more in total than those fixtures in the Premier League would cost fans. Unlike England's top-flight, cup matches do not have a price cap on away tickets, meaning clubs can charge their visiting supporters whatever they choose.

Fulham will charge Newcastle United fans £40 for the FA Cup Fourth Round match on Saturday 27 January in a move that has been slammed by the Newcastle United Supporters Trust. A post from NUST released on social media read: '£40 for @fulhamfc away in the @EmiratesFACup is again scandalous and makes a mockery of the £30 @premierleague away ticket price cap. Along with the ridiculous kick off time - loyal match going fans are taken for granted time and time again. #nufc'

The move comes just days after it was confirmed that the game against the Cottagers would kick-off at 7pm - a time that means Newcastle fans would be unable to get back to the north east after the game on public transport. The game has been moved to 7pm for broadcast on ITV 4.

That move was also slammed by NUST who believe that the loyalty of Newcastle United fans is being 'taken for granted'. The Magpies have not won the FA Cup since 1955 and last appeared in the final of the competition back in 1999.

At the other end of the scale, meanwhile, Newcastle United fans were charged just £17 to watch their side in action at Signal Iduna Park against Borussia Dortmund back in November. The move was thanked by supporters in the stadium with a banner that read: 'Change from £20 - Thank You BVB'. Dortmund fans, however, were charged £55 for the reverse fixture at St James' Park a month prior.



https://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/scandalous-ticket-decision-slammed-by-newcastle-united-supporters-trust-as-fulham-repeat-man-utd-mistake-4478131

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Bayern Munich rule out Joao Palhinha move

Bayern Munich will not pursue Joao Palhinha again, clearing the way for Barcelona to sign the Portuguese midfielder from Fulham.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Joao Palhinha is no longer the subject of interest from Bayern Munich. The Bundesliga champions have ruled out a move for the Fulham midfielder. Meanwhile, the Portuguese international is also a target for reigning La Liga champions Barcelona.

Joao Palhinha and his Story at Fulham
Joao Palhinha has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League since joining Fulham from Sporting CP. The 28-year-old has come leaps and bounds in the last 18 months, with his market value nearly tripling from €21 million to €60 million.

The Portuguese international has turned out 62 times thus far for Fulham, chipping in with six goals and one assist. He has also grown in stature on the international stage, making 24 appearances for the Seleccao. Meanwhile, Palhinha's progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs.

A Man in Demand
Bayern Munich wanted to sign Joao Palhinha from Fulham in the summer transfer window. But a deadline-day move failed to materialise, as the Premier League club could not sign a replacement. Widespread reports claimed that the Bundesliga champions would return to secure his services in 2024.

But Christoph Freund has revealed that Bayern Munich will not pursue the 28-year-old again. The update has come as a boost for Barcelona, Palhinha's dream club. The reigning La Liga champions are interested in signing him as they scour the market for a long-term successor to Sergio Busquets.

Oriol Romeu joined Barcelona from Girona in the summer transfer window. But the veteran Spaniard is only a short-term solution and is not a regular in Xavi Hernandez's midfield setup. So, it behoves the reigning La Liga champions to scour the market for a holding midfielder, with Joao Palhinha emerging as a viable target.

But Fulham will demand close to the €60 million that is his market value to part ways with the Portuguese international. That leaves Barcelona in a spot of bother due to the never-ending financial issues. It will be interesting to see if the Blaugrana can secure Palhinha's services this year.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/01/15/bayern-munich-rule-out-joao-palhinha-move/

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Everton and Nottingham Forest charged with breaking financial rules by Premier League

Everton fans have held anti-Premier League protests this season after the club was docked 10 points for alleged financial rule breaches

The Premier League has charged Everton and Nottingham Forest with breaching its financial rules.

Both clubs have been referred to an independent commission for alleged breaches of profit and sustainability rules in their accounts for 2022-23.

Under Premier League regulations, clubs can lose a maximum of £105m over a three-season period, or £35m per campaign, before facing sanctions.

Clubs that breach those rules are at risk of a fine or a points deduction.

Everton are currently appealing against a 10-point deduction from a previous charge.

The Premier League said in a statement that Everton and Nottingham Forest "have each confirmed that they are in breach of the league's profitability and sustainability rules".

It added: "This is as a result of sustaining losses above the permitted thresholds for the assessment period ending season 2022-23.

"In accordance with Premier League rules, both cases have now been referred to the chair of the judicial panel, who will appoint separate commissions to determine the appropriate sanction."

Clubs are in breach of profit and sustainability rules (PSR) if their calculation over the relevant period results in a loss in excess of £105m, although that threshold is reduced by £22m for each season a club spends in the Championship over the course of that relevant period.

Nottingham Forest spent two seasons in the Championship within the three-year assessment period, meaning the maximum loss for the club is £61m.

Clubs had to submit their accounts for 2022-23 by 31 December under new rules designed to speed up the reporting process and ensure any penalties were imposed during a season when the alleged transgression took place.

The Premier League had 14 days from the reporting date to inform clubs whether they were in breach or not.

Everton are 17th in the Premier League table and sit just one point above Luton Town, who are in the relegation zone having played a game more, while Nottingham Forest are four points clear of the drop zone in 15th.

Everton 'will continue to defend its position'
Everton have acknowledged the Premier League's decision to refer them to an independent commission for a breach of profit and sustainability rules for the assessment period from the 2019-20 campaign through to the end of the 2022-23 season.

They received an immediate 10-point deduction - the biggest punishment in the Premier League's history - in November after an independent commission found the club's losses to 2021-22 amounted to £124.5m.

Their appeal is due to be heard before the end of this season.

In a statement, Everton said: "The club must now defend another Premier League complaint which includes the very same financial periods for which it has already been sanctioned, before that appeal has even been heard. The club takes the view that this results from a clear deficiency in the Premier League's rules.

"Everton can assure its fans that it will continue to defend its position during the ongoing appeal and, should it be required to do so, at any future commission - and that the impact on supporters will be reflected as part of that process."

Thousands of Everton fans held anti-Premier League protests following the points deduction, while a number of regional politicians raised concerns, including Mayor of Liverpool Steve Rotheram and Mayor for Greater Manchester Andy Burnham.

In a new statement on Monday, Rotherham said he had "grave concerns" about the transparency of the process and that by being potentially penalised twice in the same season Everton are facing "double jeopardy".

He added: "It is not about one club but ensuring that our game is open and fair in its treatment of all clubs.

"It is difficult to see how anybody can have any confidence in a process as opaque as this."

The new charges against Everton come at a time of significant uncertainty for the club.

In September, owner Farhad Moshiri agreed to sell his 94% stake in the club to American investment fund 777 Partners.

The takeover has been given the green light by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Football Association (FA), but Everton are awaiting approval from the Premier League.

The club are also in the process of building a new stadium on the banks of the River Mersey at Bramley-Moore Dock, which is due to open in late 2024.

Forest 'confident of a speedy and fair resolution'
Nottingham Forest join Everton and Manchester City as the only top-flight clubs to be charged with breaking profit and sustainability regulations.

City were referred to an independent commission in February 2023 over more than 100 alleged rule breaches between 2009 and 2018.

Since securing promotion from the Championship in May 2022, Forest have spent a reported £250m on new signings.

In September 2022, the club broke the British record for most signings in a single transfer window after welcoming 21 new arrivals.

"Nottingham Forest acknowledges the statement from the Premier League confirming that the club has today been charged with a breach of the league's profitability and sustainability rules," the club said in a statement.

"The club intends to continue to cooperate fully with the Premier League on this matter and are confident of a speedy and fair resolution."

Forest have employed leading sports lawyer Nick de Marco to argue their case, which is thought to centre around the sale of Brennan Johnson to Tottenham for up to £45m in September.

This took place after the accounting deadline, but Forest argue their negotiating tactics allowed them to generate a higher fee than if they had been forced to sell by 30 June 2023.

Manchester City are the only other club to have been charged by the Premier League for financial breaches, when they were referred to an independent commission over more than 100 alleged rule breaches between 2009 and 2018.

Treble winners City were charged in February 2023 - before Everton's initial charge - and that case is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Chelsea could face further scrutiny from football's authorities over reports of payments connected to the club's former owner Roman Abramovich.

Chelsea were fined £8.6m by European football governing body Uefa in July for "submitting incomplete financial information" between 2012 and 2019 as part of a settlement for breaking Financial Fair Play rules.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67978537

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AFCON: Nigeria Begin With Draw

Nigeria were held to a 1-1 draw by Equatorial Guinea in their AFCON opener on Sunday.

Equatorial Guinea provided a shock when they went in front with 36 minutes played, but the Super Eagles found an equaliser within two minutes when Victor Osimhen nodded in a cross from former Fulham loanee Ademola Lookman.

Alex Iwobi started in the centre of midfield and was a positive creative outlet for his side, twice setting up Osimhen in the second half – the second of which was a sublime through pass – but the Napoli striker missed both openings.

Iwobi was substituted in stoppage time, while Calvin Bassey was brought on for the final seven minutes.

In Group A's other fixture, hosts Ivory Coast beat Guinea-Bissau 2-0.

Nigeria take on Ivory Coast in their next fixture on Thursday.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/january/15/afcon-nigeria-begin-with-draw/

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Fulham player is 'getting bored' at Craven Cottage – Wants specific move to get 'more excitement' this season
In their search for a new midfielder, Napoli have cast their eye on the English market, where a few teams could be willing to part with some players, including Fulham.

The player the Serie A side have looked is Sasa Lukic, who was signed by the Craven Cottage side just a year about for a fee of just under €10m.

Unfortunately for the Serbia international, he has never really managed to fully convince Marco Silva at Fulham, leaving him with just a few minutes here and there, as Corriere dello Sport report the latest on Napoli's transfer plans.

They explain that while the likes of Boubakary Soumaré (on loan from Leicester at Sevilla) and Orel Mangala are target, there is also the Whites midfielder as a possibility.

The newspaper state the player is 'getting bored' at Craven Cottage, where he only has 392 minutes of Premier League football to his name this season.

Because of this, he 'would like to return' to Italy, where he enjoyed himself, to experience 'more excitement' than he is currently getting at Fulham.

How much he would cost isn't stated in this particular article, but previous reports have suggested the Premier League club would want to recoup their initial investment to part ways with what clearly is a depth option in their squad.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-player-getting-bored-craven-cottage-wants-specific-move-get-excitement-season/

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Fulham Women move top of the table
Goals from Georgia Heasman, Madi Parsonson and Ede Buchele helped Fulham FC Women to a comfortable 3-1 win at Aylesford yesterday afternoon and sent the Whites back to the top of the London and South Eastern Regional Premier League table.

Heasman opened the scoring in the seventh minute when she chested home a cross from Buchele as Fulham made a confident start at the Aylesford Recreation Ground. The winger then almost returned the favour six minutes later but Buchele was unable to turn home a dangerous drilled cross.

The visitors doubled their lead midway through the first half when Parsonson produced a impudent finish from the right wing to chip Aylesford goalkeeper Sade Rider and put clear water between the sides. Heasman was unfortunate not to score her second of the afternoon with a rising free-kick on the half hour, whilst young centre back Prudie Todd-Warmouth stung Rider's palms with a fierce drive from distance before the break.

Buchele made it three a minute into the second half when the lively forward headed home a lovely cross from Lilly Lambird after a well-worked short corner. Aylesford got a goal back nine minutes later when Kara Richardson was on hand to sweep home the rebound after Amy Panyi's shot was saved by Ellie Parker. The hosts finished strongly with Panayi and Beth Hulme coming close in the closing stages – but Fulham fully merited the three points.

A professional away performance – combined with Dulwich Hamlet's 5-2 defeat of Dartford – ensured the Whites returned to the top of the table. The race for promotion looks set to go down to the wire with Fulham now two points clear of both Hamlet, who have a game in hand, and previous pacesetters Dartford, who have two games in hand.

AYLESFORD FC: Rider; B. Burnham, Witham, A. Burnham, Skelton, Armstrong, McLean-Wright, Elsley, Driscoll, Blyghton, Hulme. Subs: Wignal, Gondo, Golos, Richardson, Panayi.

GOAL: Richardson (55).

FULHAM FC WOMEN: Parker; Todd-Warmouth, Southgate, Dale; Parsonson, Bird, Christison-McNee, Lambird; Heasman, Buchele, Manzi. Subs: Stratton, Tagliavini, Allen, Murtagh, Adamson.

GOALS: Heasman (7), Parsonson (22), Buchele (46).

REFEREE: Amarachi Okamgba.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/fulham-women-move-top-of-the-table/

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West Ham United transfer news: Update emerges on Fulham and Brentford target Pablo Rosario
West Ham, Fulham, Brentford and Wolves are the four Premier League clubs keen on Nice midfielder Pablo Rosario, according to the Mirror.

The newspaper reported in its transfer blog on 15 January at 12:15pm that these sides have been scouting the Netherlands international for months.

Stuttgart and Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga have also shown an interest and a January move appears to be on the cards.

Not needed
Rosario's market value is likely to increase significantly due to the high level of interest from multiple clubs, including Wolves, Fulham and Brentford in the Premier League, as well as Bundesliga clubs Stuttgart and Werder Bremen.

The increased demand for the Dutch midfielder creates a competitive market, driving up his price as multiple sides vie for his services.

The interest from several reputable teams indicates that the 27-year-old is a sought-after talent, contributing to a potential bidding war.

His value may also rise based on his performances for Ligue 1 side Nice, as clubs are likely to factor in his experience in a top European league.

West Ham's current midfield options with Edson Alvarez, James Ward-Prowse and Lucas Paqueta all performing well, may see them pulling out of the race as the competitive nature of the transfer market and Rosario's potential to strengthen various aspects of a team could drive his price higher.

Clubs may perceive him as a valuable asset, contributing to an escalating transfer fee amid the intense competition for his signature.



https://www.westhamzone.com/news/west-ham-united-transfer-news-update-emerges-on-fulham-and-brentford-target-pablo-rosario/

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Sanderson signs for Sutton on loan
Fulham have recalled young striker Olly Sanderson from his successful loan stint at Oxford City and sent him to League Two Sutton United on loan for the remainder of the season.

The twenty year-old centre forward, who has been at Fulham since he was nine, made a real impact in the Nation League scoring thirteen goals in 29 games and has now been drafted in by new United manager Steve Morison as the U's look to preserve their Football League status. Sanderson could make his Sutton debut when his new club travel to promotion-chasing Mansfield Town on Saturday.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/sanderson-signs-for-sutton-on-loan/

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Cairney 'bamboozled' by refereeing inconsistency
Fulham captain Tom Cairney has admitted to being 'bamboozled' by refereeing decisions after Anthony Taylor – and the video assistant referee – opted not to send Malo Gusto off for his studs-up challenge on Willian during Saturday's SW6 derby.

The full back was shown a yellow card for his challenge on the former Chelsea winger and Cairney told the written press after Fulham's narrow defeat at Stamford Bridge that he was surprised by the decision.

"When you think Dominic Calvert-Lewin got sent off for not touching anyone and then that one was just a yellow card ... I am just bamboozled. He has hit him clean. He has got shin pads but he has hit him high and in modern football you can't do that. We saw it on the laptop at half-time and all six studs are on his leg.

We asked the ref at the time and he said it had gone to VAR to be checked, so we are so confused. I am just really confused, that's normally a straight red. Maybe you don't get these things away from home. It is strange."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/cairney-bamboozled-by-refereeing-inconsistency/

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Sutton United: League Two club sign Olly Sanderson and Nino Adom-Malaki on loan

Olly Sanderson (centre) has been with Fulham since under-nine level

League Two strugglers Sutton have signed Fulham striker Olly Sanderson and Millwall left-back Nino Adom-Malaki on loan until the end of the season.

Sanderson, 20, has been with Fulham since under-nine level.

He is yet to play a first-team game for the club but started their EFL Trophy tie with Portsmouth in August.

He also helped Oxford City to promotion to National League South last season, with five goals in eight games, and returned on loan earlier this season.

Adom-Malaki, 19, has been named in the Lions' first-team squad this season but is yet to make his debut.

He has been a regular in Millwall's under-21 squad this season and signed a new contract at the Championship club in October.

Adom-Malaki is the third signing - Charlie Lakin joined from Burton last week - for new manager Steve Morison since he replaced Matt Gary on 6 January.

Sutton are second bottom of League Two, six points from safety, and battling to avoid their first relegation back to the non-league.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67982820

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Are Fulham caught between two stalls?
It's been two days since another frustrating defeat at Stamford Bridge – something every Fulham fan has had to make their peace with over almost half a century – and I still can't escape the feeling that this was a lost opportunity. Our near neighbours are no longer the force they once were, even if they replaced Roman Abrahamovic with Todd Boehly and Graham Potter with Mauricio Pochettino. In the modern vernacular, Chelsea are a side in transition – but Marco Silva's side found themselves unable to take advantage.

The derby felt very tame to me, but there are mitigating circumstances. Silva may have made several changes from the start that couldn't exploit the opportunities that came their way in their first ever League Cup semi-final yet it fault like there was still a Liverpool hangover. It might have been very different had Harry Wilson tucked away that chance at the far post from Fulham's first flowing move of the match or if Anthony Taylor red carded Malo Gusto for his dangerous challenge on Willian. The game turned on Issa Diop's dozy piece of defending – but Fulham looked leggy after their Merseyside exertions, even their best spell of the game looked laboured.

Silva's done superbly since he arrived in SW6 and the way in which he has firmly established Fulham as a Premier League side is worthy of all the plaudits. But an ageing and limited squad – both in terms of the types of players he has at his disposal and the number of them – leaves an ambitious manager between a rock and a hard place. At Liverpool, Fulham followed up squandering several chances to take a two-goal lead by being unable to soak up the pressure and grind out a result. They've struggled away from home throughout this season, something Silva recognised in his comments after the defeat at Stamford Bridge, and lack the ability to manage situations that sets the successful sides apart from the also-rans.

The brutal reality is that making the leap from mid-table mediocrity, which shouldn't be sniffed at considering Fulham's often-cited recent history of hopping between the top two divisions, to becoming a force requires ambition, tactical acumen and cold hard cash. Silva, who was desperate to prove to English observers that he could make the grade in the Premier League, is a serial winner who has committed his future to club. But, as he has also outlined in recent weeks, he was disappointed by the uncertainty of the summer transfer window and knows that the club are unlikely to spend big in January.

That might be why Nemanja Matic, who was pictured watching Fulham's dismal defeat by Burnley before Christmas, from the Craven Cottage balcony is looming into view as a short-term sticking plaster to provide cover for Joao Palhinha. The Serbian veteran has been there and done it in European football and, if the finances are tight, a deal that sees him arrive on a free transfer until the remainder of the season seems very attractive. But Silva has to be careful to avoid the fate that befall Martin Jol when Fulham lost the services of Moussa Dembele and Clint Dempsey in one summer. The Whites ended re-signing Giorgos Karagounis and Mahmadou Diarra – warriors whose best days were long behind them.

Relying on a Greek warhorse and a Malian magician whose knees had seen far better days was just one small aspect of a squad that was far too aged for the frenetic pace of the Premier League. Roy Hodgson's success in re-energising experienced players who had lost their way elsewhere worked wonders in the short-term but Fulham paid the penalty for failing to refresh their squad, whether it was by trusting in some of the bright sparks from the academy or by adjusting the recruitment profile to target younger talent attracted by the prospect of proving themselves in the top flight.

Silva's own squad has key players who are the wrong side of thirty. Although goalkeepers can go on into their forties these days, Bernd Leno is 31. Tim Ream is 36 and will be with the club for another year – at least. You wouldn't expect the American to be a first-team regular beyond this season, but the Whites look a far better outfit with Tom Cairney (32), Willian (35) and Raul Jimenez (32) in the side. It is understandable if the power-brokers at Fulham believe that there will be better value come the summer than in January, but the achievements of a high-class head coach will soon need to be matched with the acquisition of talent that can cope with the physical demands of top flight football.

There is also an argument to be made that Fulham need to be better at fast-tracking some of their homegrown talent. Silva reaped the rewards of trusting Fabio Carvalho with the vital number ten role in the Championship – and you have to wonder how much he regrets joining Liverpool now that he finds himself on loan at Hull City for the remainder of the campaign. Carvalho's talent was obvious to those of who watched the youth teams regularly, but it took Silva's arrival on scene to given him a regular run in the first time.

Fulham's under 18 and under 21 sides are having excellent seasons. Several of our young stars are excelling on loan elsewhere (a welcome change from when the club seemed to keep our most gifted youngsters under lock and key at Motspur Park), but the pathway into the senior side is the best way of attracting the brightest talent to our category one academy. Will the likes of Devan Tanton, Charlie Robinson, Josh King, Ollie O'Neill, Matt Dibley-Dias Callum Osmand, Lemar Gordon or Aaron Loupalo-Bi, to name just a few, get the opportunity to stake a claim? It might be the only way to ensure that a loss-making business becomes a bit more sustainable.

I get that there are risks with blooding young talent. You certainly don't want to go full Felix Magath and ruin a bunch of bright talents by throwing them in wholesale and two early. But it feels as if Fulham will need to grasp the nettle sooner rather than later and back Silva's ambition by becoming bolder. The alternative is treading water – and I think the future could be far more exciting than that.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/are-fulham-caught-between-two-stalls/

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Fulham fancy Rosario
Fulham are one of four Premier League clubs keen on signing Nice midfielder Pablo Rosario, according to the Daily Mirror.

The Whites are eager to supplement Marco Silva's options in midfield this month and have intensified their efforts after their move to sign Brazilian international Andre has gone cold. The Dutch international, who helped Nice reach the Coup de France final in 2022, has made 96 appearances since signing for Les Aiglons in the summer of 2021.

The 27 year-old defensive midfielder, who won his senior international cap as a half-time substitute in a friendly against Belgium in 2018, came through the Ajax youth ranks before making more than a hundred senior appearances for PSV Eindhoven, where he won the Eredivisie title in 2018. Rosario, who can also play at centre half, has another two years on his contract at the Allianz Riviera.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/fulham-fancy-rosario/

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'Huge' Newcastle player could now return from injury against Fulham
Newcastle United have not had many options off the bench for a long time now, and that continued on Saturday night.

The Magpies made just one substitution against Manchester City, as Eddie Howe's side lost 3-2 to the champions of the world.

While Newcastle could only bring on Lewis Hall and ask him to play on the wing, Man City were able to turn to Kevin De Bruyne. His introduction changed the game, and that is exactly what Newcastle do not have right now.

They do not have game changers in reserve. They would if they had a fully fit squad, but that has not been the case all season.

Newcastle's injury crisis has massively dented their campaign, and has led to Howe's side now sitting in 10th place in the Premier League. They are also still in the FA Cup, where they take on Fulham in the fourth round.

It has been suggested that Callum Wilson could potentially be back from his injury then, and now the Chronicle have suggested that another player could return to fitness for the trip to Craven Cottage.
Newcastle United FC v AC Milan: Group F - UEFA Champions League 2023/24

Newcastle could soon have Jacob Murphy back from injury
According to the Chronicle, Jacob Murphy is getting closer to returning and could potentially be involved in the FA Cup game against Fulham.

That would be a huge boost, as Newcastle are desperate for attacking reinforcements. Anthony Gordon and Miguel Almiron need support, which is something they not have had for months.

Murphy has been out of action after suffering a shoulder injury. He dislocated it after falling awkwardly during the Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund at St James' Park.

The 28-year-old then made a shocking return less than two weeks later when he was named on the bench against Arsenal. He was able to come on and play a part in the Magpies' controversial winner, before his shoulder popped out again.

Murphy has not played since, missing 17 games in total with this injury.

Seeing him back in black and white would be absolutely brilliant. Eddie Howe has previously called him a 'huge' player, and his impact could be even greater at a time when Newcastle are crying out for players like him.

If his return can be quickly followed by comebacks for Wilson, Joe Willock and Harvey Barnes then our squad will be looking a lot healthier.



https://www.geordiebootboys.com/news/huge-newcastle-player-could-now-return-from-injury-against-fulham/

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Report: Fulham Midfielder in Line for 'Dream Move'

Fulham's Palhinha Eyes Barcelona Move Amidst Premier League Success
In the vibrant world of football transfers, few stories capture the imagination like a player's lifelong dream inching closer to reality. The latest on this front, as reported by Caught Offside, revolves around Fulham's midfield maestro, João Palhinha, and his aspiration to don the colours of Barcelona.

Palhinha's Persistent Barcelona Dream
João Palhinha, the Fulham midfielder, isn't just another player in the transfer market; he's a talent with a vision. As Caught Offside insightfully reports, "The report in Diario Sport states that Palhinha has a life long ambition to play for Barcelona and he is appreciated by Xavi's team." This isn't merely a transfer; it's the culmination of a lifelong goal for Palhinha.

From Fulham to Camp Nou: A Steadfast Journey
Despite a successful stint at Fulham, Palhinha's heart seems set on a move to the Camp Nou. Caught Offside reveals, "According to Diario Sport, the Portuguese international is keen to leave the Premier League club and targets a move to the Camp Nou." This statement encapsulates the determination of a player ready to leap to a new challenge in La Liga.

The Unfinished Symphony of a Midfield Genius
Palhinha's journey hasn't been without its twists. Last summer, a nearly completed move to Bayern Munich fell through, leaving him to extend his stay at Fulham. However, his prowess hasn't gone unnoticed, with interest from clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal. Yet, Barcelona remains his preferred destination.

Financial Constraints: A Barrier to Barcelona's Dream Signing
Barcelona's interest in Palhinha comes at a time when they seek to bolster their midfield. With the departure of Sergio Busquets and Oriol Romeu's struggles, Palhinha could be the perfect fit. However, Caught Offside notes, "The La Liga giants will most likely be unable to spend the €60 million asking price set by Fulham as they are in financial turmoil." This financial hurdle could delay Palhinha's dream move, at least for now.



https://eplindex.com/102382/report-fulham-midfielder-in-line-for-dream-move.html

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Player Becoming Bored At Fulham, Wants Move Away
Player Becoming Bored At Fulham, Wants Move Away

The 27-year-old midfielder spent a significant amount of his playing career in Italy with Torino, before he joined the Cottagers last year in January.

He signed a four-and-a-half-year deal with Fulham, but the Serbian has not established himself as an important player under Marco Silva.

Lukic has attracted interest from Italy this month, with Napoli one of the sides keen to snap him up.

Napoli have already failed with an approach for Lukic this month, but they may soon be about to get help from the player.

According to Italian daily Corriere dello Sport (via Tutto Napoli), Lukic is becoming bored at Fulham and wants to return to Italy.

The midfielder is claimed to want to experience more lively emotions back in the Italian top flight.

Whether Fulham will be convinced to let Lukic go is unclear though as Silva may want a replacement bringing in through the door.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/01/15/player-becoming-bored-at-fulham-wants-move-away/633096/

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Underwood signs Fulham scholarship
Fulham have this afternoon confirmed that promising goalkeeper Marco Underwood has signed a scholarship with the club.

The teenager made his under-18 debut in Saturday's 3-2 win over Southampton at Motspur Park following a successful trial with the Whites and joins the club from Woking.

Underwood told Fulham's official website this afternoon:

"I'm absolutely delighted. This is what I've been working towards my whole life and I now have the opportunity to join this great club, so I'm just so happy to be here. I grew up playing grassroots football and I've been all around the academy system. I've been on lots of trials, with some working out and some not but thankfully this one has worked out and I'm so proud and thankful for the opportunity.

I'm just looking to fulfil my full potential and become a professional footballer like all the rest of the lads, but it's in God's hands and hopefully one day that'll be possible. I'd like to thank my friends and family and all the coaches that have supported me along the way because without them I would have struggled. I'm massively appreciative to all those people."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/underwood-signs-fulham-scholarship/

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Fulham recall Oxford City FC striker Olly Sanderson
Oxford City FC striker Olly Sanderson has been recalled by Fulham and will join EFL League Two side, Sutton United.

 Sanderson made an impressive start to life at Oxford City, scoring the winning goal in an Emirates FA Cup match against Salisbury on his debut.

The then 18-year-old had gone straight into the starting XI after his loan from Fulham was announced before kick-off.

The club said: "We'd like to thank Olly for his efforts throughout his time with the club and we wish him the best for the future."

 Jack Bycroft has also recently been recalled by Southampton so that the goalkeeper could join EFL League Two side Swindon Town on a permanent basis.

Despite losing two key players in his squad, Oxford City Manager Ross Jenkins has said that he is pleased with the reputation the club is gaining in regards to developing young players.

On the departures, Jenkins said: "Olly has been professional, hard-working and has had a great attitude since joining us.

 "Olly contributed to our promotion season and has gone on to score some valuable goals this season.

"Hopefully, we've played a small part in developing Olly so he can kick on again in the Football League.

"Jack has been another success story after he joined us on loan and has gone on to join Swindon Town permanently.

"Giving players the opportunity to develop and kick on has been a real pleasure and we hope the two continue to develop and progress."

Oxford City currently sit 23rd in the Vanarma National League South, three points away from safety.

Their next match is against relegation rivals Woking on January 20, with kick-off at 3 pm.



https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/yourtown/oxford/24050807.fulham-recall-oxford-city-fc-striker-olly-sanderson/

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Sutton United sign Fulham's Olly Sanderson and Millwall's Nino Adom-Malaki on loan
Sutton United has strengthened its team with the addition of two loan signings, Fulham striker Olly Sanderson and Millwall defender Nino Adom-Malaki, both until the end of the season.

 Olly Sanderson, who turned 20 in December, joins Sutton from Fulham, where he has been since the Under 9 level.

Known for his goal-scoring prowess through the age groups, Sanderson has been a regular in Fulham's Under 21s and featured in this season's EFL Trophy.

His previous loan spell at Oxford City saw him score five goals in eight games, contributing to their promotion from the National League South.

 Nino Adom-Malaki, a 19-year-old left back from Millwall, is the second loan signing announced.

A regular in Millwall's Under 21 squad, Adom-Malaki has also been named in the first team squad on several occasions and signed a new contract with The Lions in October.



https://www.extratime.com/articles/32644/sutton-united-sign-fulhams-olly-sanderson-and-millwalls-nino-adom-malaki-on-loan/

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Fulham 'only willing' to let player go in January on one condition – He wants to leave Craven Cottage
Earlier on Monday, we covered a line from Corriere dello Sport, which explained that Napoli were still considering a move for Fulham's Sasa Lukic.

The Serbia international has failed to convince under Marco Silva this season, playing mostly from the bench, and was said to be bored with his role at Craven Cottage.

Well, Fulham appear to be aware of this, as journalist Valter De Maggio, speaking to Radio Kiss Kiss, relayed by Torino Granata, explained.

He said: "Napoli are tracking Sasa Lukic. The player is currently at Fulham. The English club would only be willing to sell him on loan with an obligation to buy."

What could play in Napoli's favour if there was any competition is that Lukic already knows the man in charge of the Serie A side: Walter Mazzarri.

The two already worked together at Torino when the manager was there, and that's why the Fulham midfielder would be a 'welcome profile' for him.

Whether any of this takes shape in the form of a concrete offer, we'll have to wait and see.

The 27-year-old midfielder has made 15 appearances in all competitions for the Craven Cottage side this season, the latest of which was a seven minute cameo at the end of the 1-0 loss to Fulham.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-willing-let-player-january-one-condition-wants-leave-craven-cottage/

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Transfer to Fulham 'could suit everyone' this month – Marco Silva's side yet to make concrete effort
The rumours linking Fulham and Rennes midfielder Nemanja Matic today get an update from the French media.

The freshest news on the player's situation is brought by RMC Sport, who claim there's still a tense mood between him and the Ligue 1 side.

Matic reportedly wants to leave Rennes, and recently emptied his locker to travel with his family to London. Now after meeting the club's management on Monday, they didn't reach an agreement regarding his exit or otherwise.

Fulham are one of the clubs who are said to be interested in him, and RMC Sport claims that's a transfer which 'could suit everyone'. The problem is that no concrete approach was made by the Whites.

There's also a track leading to Lyon, which Rennes would not be against, as long as the clubs manage to reach a financial agreement. A first offer worth below €2m was already turned down.

Now in case Fulham do make the move, it does sounds like Rennes would rather see Matic leaving for the Premier League instead of reinforcing a French rival.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/transfer-fulham-suit-everyone-month-marco-silvas-side-yet-make-concrete-effort/