Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 30/01/24...

[WhiteJC]

Fulham vs Everton: Preview and Prediction

Fulham will host Everton at Craven Cottage on Tuesday evening, looking to bounce back from a series of poor results in recent outings.
Fulham are winless in their last four matches across all competitions, picking up three defeats ahead of the visit of Everton. The 13th-placed Cottagers will be hoping to push for a top-half finish this season, and they need to grind out a positive result in these games.

On the other hand, Everton are currently 17th in the league table, and they will be hoping to preserve their status as a Premier League club next season. They need to pick up important points at this stage of the season to ensure their safety. It is all the more important amid the looming threat of further Financial Fair Play sanctions.

The Toffees are winless in their last four league matches, and they have lost three of those outings. Both teams will be desperate for a win here, and this should be a thrilling contest. The Hard Tackle takes a closer look at the encounter ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides.

Team News & Tactics
Fulham
Fulham will be without the services of Adama Traore, who has picked up a hamstring injury. Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Fode Ballo-Toure are away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations. The hosts are likely to shape up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Bernd Leno in goal.

Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson will be deployed in the full-back positions, and they will look to help out at both ends of the pitch. Tosin Adarabioyo will start alongside Issa Diop at the heart of the defence.

As for the midfield unit, Joao Palhinha will start alongside Tom Cairney. The two players will look to add defensive cover to the side and break up opposition attacks. Andreas Pereira will reprise the number ten role, and he will look to create goalscoring opportunities in the final third and link up with the attackers.

Willian and Bobby De Cordova-Reid will start in the wide areas. They will look to add pace and flair from the flanks. Finally, Raul Jimenez will lead the line for Fulham against Everton on Tuesday.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Adarabioyo, Diop, Robinson; Palhinha, Cairney; Reid, Pereira, Willian; Jimenez

Everton
Dele Alli and Abdoulaye Doucoure are sidelined with injuries for the away side. Idrissa Gueye is away on international duty due to the Africa Cup of Nations, and he will miss out as well. Everton will shape up in a 4-4-1-1 formation, with Jordan Pickford in goal.

Nathan Patterson and Vitaliy Mykolenko will start as the full-backs, and they will look to protect the central defenders and help out during counter-attacks. James Tarkowski will start at the heart of the defence alongside Jarrad Branthwaite.

In the middle of the park, James Garner will feature alongside Amadou Onana. While the Belgian will look to break up opposition attacks and protect the backline, Garner will add work rate and drive to the side.

Jack Harrison and Dwight McNeil will add pace and flair from the wide areas. The two players will look to help open up the Fulham defence with their creativity and unpredictability. Arnaut Danjuma will start in the free role behind the striker, and he will look to join up in the attack and drop down to help create opportunities as well. Dominic Calvert-Lewin will lead the line for Everton.

Probable Lineup (4-4-1-1): Pickford; Patterson, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Harrison, Garner, Onana, McNeil; Danjuma; Calvert-Lewin

Key Stats

    Fulham are undefeated in their last five matches against Everton in all competitions.
    Fulham are winless in four of the last six matches across all competitions.
    Everton are winless in five of the last six matches across all competitions.
    14 goals have been scored in the last six meetings between these two sides.

Player to Watch
Willian
The Brazilian attacker has done quite well for Fulham this season, and he has five goals and an assist to his name across all competitions. He has been quite impressive in his recent outings, especially against the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea.

Willian will look to continue in his rich vein of form and help the home team open up the Everton defence with his passing and vision. He will look to add to his goal tally for the season as well this midweek.

Prediction
Fulham 1-1 Everton
Both teams will be desperate for all three points, and they cannot afford to keep dropping points at this stage of the season. They are in similar form right now. This is likely to be a close contest, and it will be difficult to separate the two teams. They are likely to cancel each other out and share the spoils. A goalscoring draw is on the cards this week.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2024/01/29/fulham-vs-everton-preview-and-prediction/

[WhiteJC]

Pre-Everton Press Conference
Marco Silva is aware of how strong Everton have been away from Goodison Park this season.

Only Liverpool and Manchester City have won more matches on their travels in 2023/24, but Silva has faith in his own side at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night.

"All the respect to Everton, away from home they have been one of the strongest sides so far this season," he said. "They have been achieving a really, really good number of points away from home.

"The position they are in is not important for us, we look for ourselves, focus on ourselves. There are three points there to fight for and we are going to do our maximum to get the three points, knowing that they are a dangerous side.

"In many, many ways, away from home they have been achieving points. We know what they are capable of doing, it's going to demand from ourselves a very good night because we need to win the game.

"It's always tricky. As I said before, when you play against Sean Dyche teams it's always tricky, they're always a really difficult team to beat and to play against.

"Everyone knows how the game can become really physical as well, and how they are strong in all the challenges, in all the duels, and after from that moment they are capable to build always and to create chances to score.

"They are a solid side in many moments of the game. Of course, I know them really well, they know ourselves really well as well. It's going to be a really competitive Premier League game, and we are positive that we can get a good result again."

Fulham won three times at Everton in 2023, and when asked if that can give his side an advantage heading into Tuesday, Silva replied: "Not advantage, but gives us the confidence that we can repeat again. Simple as that.

"The opposite side, of course, is that Everton are thinking in the opposite way, that they want to change things.

"If you have been achieving good results, it's not an advantage because the game is going to start new, [but] it gives us the confidence that we can repeat the good result again and we can perform well to get it done."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/january/29/pre-everton-press-conference/

[WhiteJC]

Empty seats at Craven Cottage: Prices put cup magic in peril

If you were watching Fulham take on Newcastle United in the FA Cup fifth round this weekend you may have spotted swathes of empty seats in the home ends – and it wasn't apathy keeping the regulars away.

Despite the pull of a big cup tie, those empty seats were the result of the latest boycott from Fulham fans – search #AffordableFulham on Twitter/X for more – as the issue of ticket pricing at Craven Cottage came to a head.

As we reported earlier this season, Fulham are home to some of the worst matchday and season ticket pricing – prompting fans to lobby the club directly on the issue. When those warnings went unheard, ticket price protests were launched before their Premier League game against Manchester United back in November.

And tickets for this weekend's game in the cup started at £40 for adults, with no sale window or reservation options for season ticket holders. The club's decision caused Fulham fans to call for boycotts on social media and now Fulham supporter groups want to hear from fans who chose to stay away.

Fulham Supporters' Trust said: "We need to make sure the club ownership recognises the value of our loyal fans and communities as we fight for #AffordableFulham. To all angry about ticket arrangements and prices: join the trust so our collective voice is stronger."

ℹ️ If you are choosing to not attend today's game versus Newcastle over your concerns about #AffordableFulham, please take five minutes to email us at [email protected] with your reasons so we can put your arguments to the Club during our next meeting. [JK]

— Fulham Supporters’ Trust (@FulhamSuppTrust) January 27, 2024

Fulham Lillies have also backed the #AffordableFulham campaign and are calling for testimony from the weekend's boycotting fans.

The travelling Newcastle United supporters, who filled the Putney End at Craven Cottage, expressed their support for Fulham fans taking a stand against the club's ticket prices.

Newcastle United Supporters' Trust said: "Whilst we wish that empty seats tonight could've been filled by as many NUFC fans as possible we fully support the decision by Fulham supporters to boycott this fixture due to the ridiculous cost of attending football in 2024."

"£40 for a Saturday night game on TV is crazy and takes advantage of supporters," said Newcastle United Supporters Club.

Empty seats at #FULNEW because #FFC fans are boycotting in protest at being charged £40 for an #FACup tie live on ITV4 and also not able to book their season ticket seats. One protester says club’s “approach fleeces loyal fans and undermines the wonderful work of Marco Silva”.

— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) January 27, 2024

https://thefsa.org.uk/news/empty-seats-at-craven-cottage-prices-put-cup-magic-in-peril/

[WhiteJC]

Everton at Fulham: Predicted Line-Up | Beto or DCL?
Can Everton return to form against Fulham?

The Blues looked invigorated after the club's initial point deduction in November, but since Everton's penalty shootout defeat to our next opponents, Fulham, the Blues have struggled for form.

The latest disappointment was another home defeat in the FA Cup and now the Blues have one – and only one – focus for the rest of the season: retain our Premier League status, regardless of how many points we're deducted.

So how will the Blues line-up for a midweek trip to Fulham?

Who's Out?
There is no new injury news since the weekend.

That means the Blues look thin in the middle with Abdoulaye Doucoure (hamstring), Idrissa Gueye (international duty) and Andre Gomes (calf) all unavailable.

Seamus Coleman is also out with a hamstring problem, while it doesn't look like Dele will play for Everton again due to his latest injury setback.

EVERTON SQUAD AVAILABLE VS FULHAM
Goalkeepers: Pickford, Virginia, Lonergan

Defenders: Keane, Godfrey, Branthwaite, Tarkowski, Mykolenko, Coleman (INJURED), Patterson, Young

Midfielders: Doucoure (INJURED), Onana, Gueye (International Duty), Garner, Onyango, Gomes (INJURED), Dele (INJURED)

Wingers: McNeil, Danjuma, Dobbin, Harrison



https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/1/29/24054357/fulham-vs-everton-predicted-line-up-premier-league-match-preview-beto-calvert-lewin-dyche

[WhiteJC]

Silva wary of Everton's away form
Marco Silva has warned his Fulham side to recognise Everton's excellent form away from Goodison Park ahead of their return to Premier League action tomorrow night.

The Whites will look to bounce back from crashing out of the FA Cup against Newcastle on Saturday night by getting back to winning ways when the Toffees come to SW6, but Silva knows his former side are a formidable proposition on the road under Sean Dyche.

The Fulham head coach told his pre-match press conference at Motspur Park this afternoon:

"All the respect to Everton, away from home they have been one of the strongest sides so far this season. They have been achieving a really, really good number of points away from home. The position they are in is not important for us, we look for ourselves, focus on ourselves. There are three points there to fight for and we are going to do our maximum to get the three points, knowing that they are a dangerous side.

In many, many ways, away from home they have been achieving points. We know what they are capable of doing, it's going to demand from ourselves a very good night because we need to win the game. It's always tricky. As I said before, when you play against Sean Dyche teams it's always tricky, they're always a really difficult team to beat and to play against.

Everyone knows how the game can become really physical as well, and how they are strong in all the challenges, in all the duels, and after from that moment they are capable to build always and to create chances to score. They are a solid side in many moments of the game. Of course, I know them really well, they know ourselves really well as well. It's going to be a really competitive Premier League game, and we are positive that we can get a good result again."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/silva-wary-of-evertons-away-form/

[WhiteJC]

Leno shortlisted for London Football Awards
Fulham's Bernd Leno has been shortlisted for the goalkeeper of the year award at the forthcoming London Football Awards.

The German international has been sensational between the sticks since moving to Craven Cottage from Arsenal in August 2022 and is one of the key reasons why Marco Silva's side have taken to the top flight so successfully. Leno is joined on the shortlist by Guglielmo Vicario (Tottenham Hotspur), Alphonse Areola (West Ham), Sam Johnstone (Crystal Palace) and Mackenzie Arnold (West Ham Women).

The winner will be announced at the awards dinner on Thursday 29 Feburary.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/leno-shortlisted-for-london-football-awards/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham planning to make fresh bid for Chelsea's Armando Broja?
Fulham are reportedly set to make a fresh bid to sign Chelsea forward Armando Broja on loan.

The 22-year-old has struggled to nail down a regular starting place since returning from a serious knee injury in September.

The Albania international has started just eight of his 19 appearances this term, scoring two goals and providing two assists.

Although Broja is under contract until the summer of 2028, Chelsea are willing to entertain a possible departure due to the club's ongoing concerns over Profit and Sustainability rules.

While Chelsea are seemingly prepared to sell their academy product, they are believed to be open to the prospect of a loan deal with an obligation to buy.

Fulham have emerged as the front-runners for Broja's signature, with Marco Silva keen to add to his centre-forward options, which currently include Raul Jimenez, Carlos Vinicius and Rodrigo Muniz.

According to TEAMtalk, Fulham are set to make a fresh bid for Broja, having already seen an offer turned down by Chelsea.

Fulham's loan proposal included a £25m obligation to buy, but it ultimately fell well below Chelsea's valuation of £35m.

Despite seeing their offer knocked back, the Cottagers are expected to resume talks with their West London neighbours.

Fulham are believed to be preparing a fresh bid as they try to reach an agreement with Chelsea before the transfer window shuts on February 1.

While Fulham are currently leading the race to sign Broja, they could still face competition from other Premier League clubs.

Aston Villa, West Ham United and Crystal Palace are among those that have previously been linked with the Albanian, while Wolverhampton Wanderers are said to be interested in a loan move.

Broja, who is under contract until the summer of 2028, has made a total of 38 senior appearances for Chelsea, registering three goals and three assists.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/chelsea/transfer-talk/news/fulham-planning-to-make-fresh-bid-for-chelseas-broja_535254.html?newsnow

[WhiteJC]

Fulham vs Everton
Everton return to Premier league action on Tuesday evening as they travel to London to face a tricky assignment against Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The Blues will need to pick themselves up following Saturday's dismal cup exit at the hands of Luton while also dealing with ongoing injury problems that are severely restricting Sean Dyche's ability to navigate what has become a rocky patch of form.

Everton have won just one of their last eight matches in all competitions and still set precariously just above the relegation zone above their cup conquerors, Luton thanks to the points deduction that the club's lawyers will be fighting at an appeal hearing in the coming weeks.

Dyche's side appear to have lost their way somewhat in the absence of Abdoulaye Doucouré, and with Idrissa Gueye away on Africa Cup of Nations duty and Andre Gomes struggling once more with injury, there is a depressing lack of creativity in midfield and dynamism and effectiveness up front.

"It's a calf," Dyche said of Gomes. "He won't be fit this week. It's going to be a matter of time, but we don't know how long yet. He's had a couple of them over the last few months, and it's a loss to us because he's shown he wants to adapt."

Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues his barren run in front of goal, Beto is struggling to convince that he is the answer leading the line and Dwight McNeil has not looked the same player since injuring himself at Crystal Palace earlier this month.

Both Doucouré and Gomes are ruled out for the trip to the Capital with hamstring and calf issues respectively, and Ashley Young probably won't the trip as he works his way back to full fitness. Seamus Coleman could travel, with Dyche admitting that it would be a "judgement call" whether or not to push him back into the fold.

That leaves the manager grappling with the same personnel as were available at the weekend against the Hatters, a group that, collectively, turned in a worryingly one-dimensional and in effective display.

Jordan Pickford will almost certainly return to the side after Joao Virginia was allowed the chance to impress in back-to-back FA Cup ties but Dyche's options to mix things up elsewhere in the team are limited.

The back four will pick itself in the absence of Coleman and Young, likewise central midfield so it's in the forward areas where the gaffer might tinker. Beto and Calvert-Lewin started in a strike partnership against Luton that didn't look like it was destined to work so it's possible he might bring Arnaut Danjuma into the starting XI now that it appears as though Kevin Thelwell will resist any approach from Lyon to take the Dutchman on loan.

Lewis Dobbin has shown flashes of promise but remains raw, as does Youssef Chermiti who made a cameo at the end of the cup tie on Saturday but it wasn't enough time for him to stake a claim for a rare start.

The Cottagers under former Toffees boss, Marco Silva, have already beaten Everton somewhat fortuitously on two occasions this season, first on the opening day in the Premier League and then in the Carabao Cup Quarter-Finals in that dramatic penalty shootout that feels more and more like a watershed moment in the Blues' season.

They come into the weekend sitting in 13th place and seven points better off than Everton but they will be without Harry Wilson who is ruled out and Adama Traore who is very likely to join his team-mate on the sidelines because of a thigh problem. Ex-Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi is on AfCoN duty along with Calvin Bassey and Fode Ballo-Toure.

Kick-off: 7:45pm, Tuesday 30 January, 2024
Referee: Tom Bramall
VAR: David Coote
Last Time: Fulham 0 - 0 Everton

Predicted Line-up: Pickford, Patterson, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko, Onana, Garner, Harrison, McNeil, Danjuma, Calvert-Lewin



https://www.toffeeweb.com/season/23-24/news/44446.html

[WhiteJC]

AFCON: "Absence of Iwobi, Bassey affecting Fulham" – Club boss Marco Silva laments
Fulham manager Marco Silva has expressed his disappointment over the absence of key players Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, attributing their Africa Cup of Nations commitments as "two big misses" following Fulham's recent exits from the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

Iwobi and Bassey, who played pivotal roles in Fulham's successful December run, including victories against West Ham, Nottingham Forest, and Arsenal, have been representing Nigeria in the AFCON tournament.

Their absence was felt during Fulham's Carabao Cup semi-final loss to Liverpool and a 2-0 defeat against Newcastle in the FA Cup.

Speaking ahead of Fulham's upcoming Premier League clash with Everton, Silva acknowledged the impact of losing the Nigerian duo.

"They played in the last game against Arsenal, and the team was in a good moment. Bassey was in his best form since joining last summer. Alex has been an important player in our attacking line and someone who can play in many positions," said Silva.

Despite the setbacks, Fulham remains optimistic, having secured victories against Everton earlier in the season, including a 1-0 league win in August and a penalty shoot-out triumph in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals in December.

Silva, who managed Everton from 2018 to 2019, believes that past successes against Everton provide confidence for the upcoming match.

"It gives us the confidence that we can repeat again. Everton will think the opposite way. It gives us confidence that we can perform well to get it done. It will be a competitive Premier League game, and we are positive we can get a result again," he stated.

As Everton faces challenges, including a 10-point deduction in November for breaching Premier League financial rules, Fulham aims to capitalize on their recent form to secure a positive result and move further away from the relegation zone.



https://news.ng/afcon-absence-of-iwobi-bassey-affecting-fulham-club-boss-marco-silva-laments/

[WhiteJC]

Everton at Fulham: Match Preview | Struggling Toffees head down to west London
Marco Silva's Cottagers are rapidly becoming a bogey team

Everton will look to bounce back from their hugely disappointing FA Cup exit when they return to Premier League action against Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The Toffees were desperately poor against Luton on Saturday, just as they were when the two sides met back in September, where Everton also conceded both goals from set pieces in a 2-1 defeat.

With Abdoulaye Doucoure still absent Sean Dyche experimented with 4-4-2 and went direct to Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto, but it just didn't work (again like it didn't work against the Hatters in September either).

With no return date yet given for Doucoure, Dyche has to try and find a system that works in his absence or risk being sucked into the bottom three.

Everton's early cup exit means that after Tuesday there is only one scheduled midweek game between now and the end of the season (excluding Crystal Palace, which was moved from Saturday to Monday). That one-game-a-week schedule should hopefully ease the burden on a small squad that has shown it cannot cope with even a handful of injuries.

But with Tottenham, Manchester City and Brighton & Hove Albion on the horizon next month, they really need to take something from west London or things could get very nervy again.

The opposition
Fulham face the Toffees just a month after they won on penalties at Goodison to progress through to the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

Marco Silva's side subsequently lost over two legs to Liverpool and were also dumped out of the FA Cup at home to Newcastle last weekend, meaning they will be hoping for a response on Tuesday.



https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2024/1/29/24054186/fulham-vs-everton-match-preview-abdoulaye-doucoure-injury-latest-andre-gomes-seamus-coleman

[WhiteJC]

Fulham's Harry Wilson sidelined with shoulder injury
Fulham boss Marco Silva has confirmed that Harry Wilson will be sidelined for at least a couple of weeks with a shoulder injury.

After losing 3-2 on aggregate to Liverpool in the EFL Cup semi-finals, Fulham experienced more cup disappointment in Saturday's home clash with Newcastle United.

Goals from Sean Langstaff and Dan Burn condemned the West London club to a 2-0 defeat in the FA Cup fourth-round tie.

To add to Fulham's disappointment, Wilson had been replaced by Willian in first-half stoppage time after he sustained a shoulder injury.

Speaking ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash with Everton, Silva revealed that Wilson is set for a short spell on the sidelines.

"Unfortunately for us, he's going to be another absence for the match," Silva told reporters at Monday's press conference.

"We have been able to really well take care of our players, which is good after that busy, busy December and January. We don't have many injuries – that is a good sign that we have been doing the things really well, and the players have been taking care of themselves well, too.

"This was a different one, was when he fell down in that moment [after being fouled], was in his shoulder – nothing muscular or something like that.

"But, unfortunately for us, he's going to be out at least two, three weeks. Let's hope not longer than that, but at least three weeks he's going to be out.

Silva also confirmed that Adama Traore remains unavailable, but the winger is closing in on a return after returning to training.

In addition to Wilson and Traore, Fulham are unable to call upon Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Fado Ballo-Toure, who are currently away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Having picked up 24 points from 21 matches, the Cottagers enter Tuesday's contest in 13th position in the Premier League table.

Fulham have the chance to claim their first-ever league double over Everton after recording a narrow 1-0 victory in the reverse fixture.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/injury-news/news/fulhams-harry-wilson-sidelined-with-shoulder-injury_535263.html?newsnow

[WhiteJC]

Report: Liverpool To Battle AC Milan For Premier League Defender

Liverpool's Eye on Tosin Adarabioyo: A Potential Free Transfer from Fulham
Interest Peaks in Adarabioyo

In a fascinating turn of events, Liverpool FC's interest in Fulham's defender Tosin Adarabioyo has intensified. Andrew Walker from Caught Offside brought this intriguing development to light, reporting that the Premier League leaders are keen on securing the Manchester-born player. Adarabioyo, whose contract with Fulham is nearing its end, appears to be a hot commodity in the transfer market.

Despite the recent announcement of Jurgen Klopp's impending departure from Liverpool, the club's admiration for Adarabioyo remains steadfast. His performance at Craven Cottage, where he has been instrumental in their defensive line for four years, has not gone unnoticed. With 121 appearances and a direct hand in six goals, Adarabioyo's potential move could bolster Liverpool's backline.

Contract Uncertainties and Rumours
Adarabioyo's agent has dismissed rumours of a refusal to sign a new contract with Fulham. Yet, the whispers of his departure persist, especially with the allure of playing at Anfield. While Serie A giants AC Milan has shown interest, Liverpool seems to be a more probable destination for the 26-year-old.

Liverpool's Defensive Strategy
Liverpool's strategy appears to be leaning towards strengthening their defence, and Adarabioyo fits this bill perfectly. His experience and skill, honed at Manchester City's youth academy and proven at Fulham, make him a valuable asset. As his contract expiration looms, it will be interesting to see if Liverpool will indeed be his next home.

In summary, Liverpool's interest in Tosin Adarabioyo is a testament to his abilities and potential value to the club. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on this developing story of a possible free transfer.



https://anfieldindex.com/62980/report-anfields-new-defensive-target.html#google_vignette

[WhiteJC]

Sean Dyche hints at new Everton injury 'doubt' ahead of Fulham and Spurs this week
Sean Dyche, for all the hardships he has faced during his 12 months at Everton, has remained admirably transparent throughout.

He says it how it is, and treats the fans with the respect they deserve. We are not fools, and can comprehend the wider issues plaguing the club we all love. It feels refreshing to have a manager and director of football who finally seem to understand this.

The connection between the supporters and the club has been sorely tested in recent years, yet faith has remained unwavering. For that, few can belittle them.

All they can hope is that a brighter future is on the horizon, to give them a team worth this unrelenting support.

However, for now they must settle for the weak and threadbare outfit currently at Dyche's disposal, set to be ravaged even further ahead of tonight's Premier League match against Fulham.

What Sean Dyche said about Everton's injury issues
As someone who remains truthful in almost every situation, on the injury front there has been little change.

In a press conference that was littered with questions about the ongoing negativity swirling around the club, this update offered no respite from the misery of being an Everton supporter.

When asked about whether the squad would receive any timely boosts, Dyche issued what felt like yet another killing blow for hopeful fans: 'I doubt it.

'Close calls on a couple but we can't keep losing players, so if it's close calls we might have to go against it just by the nature of, well we can't keep losing players as I said, so I doubt it. It's probably going to be a very similar group.'

Asked to expand on who exactly, he then claimed: 'Well like Seamus, I mean [Ashley] Youngy probably we'd give him another week but needs must at the moment with so few bodies. But Seamus is probably the one a bit closer.'

Who could Everton start vs Fulham?
Well, from that update, it seems like little will be different from Saturday's miserable FA Cup exit at the hands of Luton Town.

However, hopefully at the very least it will have opened Dyche's eyes up to the idea that 4-4-2 simply does not work with Beto and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Whether he packs another body into the midfield and pushes James Garner higher, or moves Jack Harrison more narrow and welcomes another winger, either way it will prove more profitable to the system whilst remaining in a similar pressing system.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is vastly favoured up front, so he is expected to be the starter if one is to be dropped. But they simply must find that replacement for Abdoulaye Doucoure as soon as possible, who remains out injured.

Apart from that, the miserable lack of options due to an ever-growing injury list has left him hampered. It will take a true masterclass to claim something from Craven Cottage later tonight.



https://www.everton.news/sean-dyche-hints-at-new-everton-injury-doubt-ahead-of-fulham-and-spurs-this-week/

[WhiteJC]

Sources: Fulham and Brentford scouts dispatched to Leeds United, late Morgan Whittaker bid lined up
Talent-spotters from Fulham and Brentford watched Plymouth Argyle star Morgan Whittaker in action against Leeds on Saturday (27 January), sources told Football Insider.

The 23-year-old is attracting attention midway through his standout season in the Championship with Argyle.

Football Insider revealed earlier this month (17 January) that Fulham, West Ham and Brentford are in the race for Whittaker.

However, it was scouts from west London rivals Fulham and Brentford in attendance at Elland Road on Saturday as Argyle drew 1-1 against Leeds to force an FA Cup fifth-round replay in Devon.

It is believed the two clubs are still monitoring Whittaker's situation and could make a late move for the attacker before Thursday's (1 February) transfer deadline.

Understandably, Plymouth are reluctant to lose the red-hot winger so late in the mid-season window.

Whittaker has hit 16 goals and seven assists in 31 appearances across all competitions for Argyle so far this season.

He is second (15 goals) only to Blackburn's Sammie Szmodics (16 goals) in the race for the Championship's top scorer award.

The 23-year-old returned to Plymouth permanently last summer (2023) after seeing a successful loan spell at Home Park cut short by Swansea just months earlier.

It has been widely reported that the ex-Swans star cost Argyle a club-record fee of just £1million plus add-ons.

The Devon club now stand to land a huge profit on Whittaker if he makes the move to the Premier League.

Fulham and Brentford sit 13th and 14th respectively in the top flight and need more firepower if they are to push into the top half.

Meanwhile, Whittaker's Plymouth side sit 15th in the Championship and have built an eight-point buffer to the bottom three.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-and-brentford-scouts-dispatched-to-leeds-united-late-morgan-whittaker-bid-lined-up/

[WhiteJC]

Sources: Fulham in new move to sign Armando Broja as latest Chelsea price tag revealed
Fulham are still pushing hard to land Chelsea forward Armando Broja as Thursday's (1 February) transfer deadline approaches, sources have told Football Insider.

The Blues striker is a top target for Marco Silva's side but his price tag is still proving prohibitive as the end of the window approaches.

Fulham have been scouring the market for a new striker throughout January but wanted to sign the right option – and have settled on Broja as a suitable target.

Football Insider revealed last week (22 January) that Chelsea want around £50million for the ex-Southampton loanee – a price tag which has forced West Ham to end their interest.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that the Cottagers will not turn their attention to alternative targets if they can't sign the Albania international.

Sources say Silva's side will return for their top targets in the summer window rather than rush into a panic buy in January.

It is believed club chiefs are aware Fulham are unlikely to be dragged into a relegation battle and have been eliminated from both domestic cups in the space of a week.

Broja has hit two goals and contributed two assists in 19 appearances across all competitions in the 2023-24 campaign.

He has started in just eight of those outings, with Nicolas Jackson often preferred in attack by Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino.

The 22-year-old is under contract at Stamford Bridge until June 2028.

Fulham strikers Raul Jimenez and Rodrigo Muniz have struggled for regular goals this season with Silva's side sitting 13th in the Premier League table.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Willian (five goals each) are the top scorers for the Cottagers this season.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-armando-broja-plan-revealed-after-50m-development/

[WhiteJC]

Neeskens Kebano loved 32-year-old display yesterday, Fulham sold him in 2022
Fulham cult hero Neeskens Kebano has reacted to a fantastic performance from Jean Michael Seri at the African Cup of Nations on Monday.

Marco Silva has sold both players but not before they made crucial contributions to the team.

Kebano took to Instagram to celebrate his old teammate starring in the Ivory Coast.

When Marco Silva first arrived at Fulham, he had plenty of players at his disposal who had struggled under his predecessors.

One of those players was Jean Michael Seri, who had never really settled at Craven Cottage.

The Ivorian joined alongside defender Maxime Le Marchand in a deal worth a combined £30m.

Alongside Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, it was a sign of Fulham returning to the big time after their promotion from the Championship.

Unfortunately, that campaign was a disaster with Seri failing to live up to expectations.

Seri finally repaid the faith shown in him by Fulham when he had his best season at the club in 2021/22 and helped us win the Championship alongside Neeskens Kebano and co.

Silva decided it wasn't the right decision to extend his expiring contract for their return to the Premier League and he has since joined Hull City.

That hasn't affected his place in the Ivory Coast national team and he was named player of the match as they knocked out reigning champions Senegal last night.

Kebano hails former Fulham teammate Seri
Posting on his Instagram story after the match, Kebano said: "Technical director of Ivorian football what a score. But in the semi-final against us, you can't resist."

As Kebano alludes to, Seri will be facing his country DR Congo in the quarter-finals of the African Cup of Nations.

With the support of a home crowd behind them, the Elephants now stand a great chance of reaching the final.

Kebano and Seri will both be hoping their respective nations can get past Fulham duo Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey.

The pair are still in the tournament with Nigeria and both started their win in the last 16.

Not only that, the Fulham connection at AFCON was strengthened even further when Bassey set up a goal for another familiar name; Ademola Lookman.



https://www.fulham.news/2024/01/30/neeskens-kebano-loved-32-year-old-display-yesterday-fulham-sold-him-in-2022/

[WhiteJC]

De Cordova-Reid determined to bounce back
Bobby De Cordova-Reid is determined to help Fulham bounce back from their two cup defeats when they take on Everton in tonight's Premier League clash at Craven Cottage.

The Jamaican international, whose goal secured three points for Fulham at Goodison Park back in August, knows the visitors will be fired up to register another away win and may spy an opportunity to inflict more pain on Marco Silva's side.

"Obviously we've been doing well against Everton but that doesn't mean anything. We know what they're going to bring to the table. We have to exploit their weaknesses, but obviously go into the game with confidence and hopefully get the three points. I think we're prepared. We obviously want to put it right after two results that went against us. I think we need to get back on form and have that consistency going into the league."

De Cordova-Reid has made a virtue of his versatility, appearing in a number of positions for the Whites this season, and is likely to be called upon again tonight after Harry Wilson's shoulder injury.

"I think it's good for the manager because he may not have to make a sub – he can just move me around different positions! I consider myself a good listener, so when we're doing tactics I understand what different roles need, and I think the manager understands that and has trust in me. He's trusted me to do a lot of roles and trusts me on the pitch as a leader. I'm thankful for that and I want to keep repaying him with good performances."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/de-cordova-reid-determined-to-bounce-back/

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool impressed with Fulham star amid uncertainty over Virgil van Dijk future
Liverpool have been linked with a move for Fulham centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo.

The 26-year-old has impressed in the Cottagers' back line since signing from Manchester City in October 2020.

Tosin is out of contract in the summer and is currently permitted to speak to overseas clubs regarding a free transfer.

Accordingly both AC Milan and Inter Milan have been mentioned as possible destinations for the 6'5 defender.

Fulham manager Marco Silva came close to losing Tosin last summer when he had only one year left on his deal. Monaco tried to sign him right up until the final moment of the transfer window but the move broke down when Fulham could not find an adequate replacement.

Tosin spent the first part of this season on the sidelines nursing a groin injury but has slotted back into the team in recent weeks.

According to the Daily Mail, he impressed Liverpool staff in the recent Carabao Cup semi-finals, a two-legged tie ultimately won by the Reds.

Tottenham are also known to be keen on the player, who spent time on loan with Blackburn Rovers and West Brom during his City days.

Liverpool will be in the market for centre-backs this summer with Joel Matip out of contract and extra numbers required in that area of the pitch.

There have been links with Sporting Lisbon pair Goncalo Inacio and Ousmane Diomande, who would cost €120 million between them, and Tosin would appear to be a more cost efficient option.

Club captain Virgil van Dijk added fuel to the fire following the FA Cup fourth-round defeat of Norwich City last weekend, declaring that whether he would stay or not following the imminent departure of manager Jurgen Klopp was "a big question".

Van Dijk, who turns 33 in July, has only 18 months left on his current Anfield contract, and might not be part of the post-Klopp rebuild.

"That's a big question. Well, I don't know," he told reporters when asked whether he would be at the club after Klopp left.

"The club will have a big job on their hands, that is well known. To replace the manager and replace not only the manager, the staff is leaving, and there are so many things that will change.

"So the club has a big job on its hands and I am very curious which direction that will go in. But when that will be announced we will see our situation, I can't say now."



https://anfieldwatch.co.uk/liverpool-fulham-tosin-van-dijk-exit/

[WhiteJC]

Before The Whistle: Fulham v Everton

Back to the grind.

It's 'time to focus on the league' on Tuesday as we welcome Everton to Craven Cottage. We've enjoyed our recent encounters with the Toffees; we've won our last three games in all competitions – all at Goodison Park, and we're unbeaten in four overall.

That all points to a 1-0 home defeat, of course. I'm just joking. I hope.

The headline coming out of Marco's press conference is that Harry Wilson is out for two-to-three weeks after injuring his shoulder against Newcastle on Saturday night. Adama Traore is training with the squad again, but it's too soon for him to provide some cover. That's a lot of pressure on Willian and Bobby De Cordova-Reid.

Silva says he's assessing the players ahead of this game, with two cup matches in four days sapping a lot of energy from the squad. Nevertheless, expect the starting XI to be closer to the one that started the League Cup semi.

A win could lift us above Bournemouth into 12th, if only for a day or so. A loss would bring Everton within four points of us – despite their 10-point deduction. No pressure, then. You Whites.

ℹ️ MATCH DETAILS

Kick-Off: Tuesday, 7.45PM
Stadium: Craven Cottage
Competition: Premier League
TV Channel (UK): None

🚦 LEAGUE FORM

Fulham: ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌
Everton: ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ⬜
⚖️ MATCH PROBABILITY

Fulham: 41.8%
Draw: 29.4%
Everton: 28.8%
🥊 MOST RECENT MATCHES

Dec 23: Everton 1-1 Fulham
Aug 23: Everton 0-1 Fulham
Apr 23: Everton 1-3 Fulham
Oct 22: Fulham 0-0 Everton



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-01-30-before-the-whistle-fulham-v-everton/

[WhiteJC]

Everton predicted line-up vs Fulham - as Sean Dyche switches formation again amid three changes
Everton team predicted to face Fulham in the Premier League at Craven Cottage.

Everton make the trip to Fulham tonight (19.45 GMT) hoping they aim to climb away from the Premier League relegation zone.

The Toffees' only focus this season now remains in the top flight after they exited the FA Cup at the hands of Luton Town last weekend. A last-gasp 2-1 loss was disappointing amid a largely disappointing performance at Goodison Park.

However, remaining in the top flight is the priority for Sean Dyche's side. A 10-point deduction for breaching profit and sustainability rules has plunged Everton into another scrap, having narrowly avoided the drop in the past two seasons.

The Toffees currently sit one point and one place above the bottom three and have won only one of their past eight games in all competitions. However, the Blues' away form has been good this term - it's the sixth best in the Premier League - and they can take confidence heading to Craven Cottage.

Dyche again has injury problems to contend with, however. Top-scorer Abdoulaye Doucoure is sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Andre Gomes has suffered a calf setback. Seamus Coleman is another doubt, while Idrissa Gana Gueye is absent again as he's been on African Cup of Nations duty with Senegal - who are now out of the tournament after losing to Ivory Coast on penalties in the last 16.

Regardless, Dyche may be looking at making changes to his side that lost to Luton. Ahead of the clash against Fulham, here's the Everton team predicted.



https://www.liverpoolworld.uk/sport/football/everton/everton-predicted-line-up-vs-fulham-as-sean-dyche-switches-formation-again-amid-three-changes-4497611