Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 31/01/24...

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Results

Tuesday 30/01
Forest	1-2	Arsenal
Fulham	0-0	Everton
Luton	4-0	Brighton
Palace	3-2	Sheff Utd
Villa	1-3	Newcastle

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Fulham 0-0 Everton

Both teams had efforts cleared off the line at Craven Cottage

Everton dropped into the Premier League relegation zone despite clinging on for a hard-fought goalless draw at Fulham.

The Toffees, whose appeal hearing over their 10-point deduction for breaching financial rules begins on Wednesday, slip to 18th, a point behind Luton following the Hatters' win over Brighton.

Despite the scoreline there was no shortage of goalmouth action at Craven Cottage with both sides hitting the woodwork and having efforts cleared off the line.

Everton endured both in a matter of seconds as James Tarkowski's scuffed shot flicked the head of Issa Diop and looped up to hit the crossbar. The ball then brushed Antonee Robinson and rolled back towards the goal, only for Timothy Castagne to poke it away in the nick of time.

Castagne was on the receiving end of a goalline clearance later in the first half when his fierce shot was deflected past Jordan Pickford and Tarkowski was on hand to block.

After a fairly even first half, Fulham dominated the second with Castagne's flicked header coming back off the bar and Pickford making a stunning save to keep out a Tosin Adarabioyo header that looked destined to find the net.

Marco Silva's side kept their visitors penned inside their own half for much of the second period but failed to make the most of numerous promising situations and were nearly punished.

Everton substitute Beto headed over from point-bank range in injury time and the Toffees were unable to force the ball home during a scramble on the edge of the Fulham six-yard box a minute later.

To add to Fulham's frustrations, Raul Jimenez went off holding his hamstring at the end of the first 45 minutes and had to be replaced at half-time, with Diop also grabbing the back of his thigh after being substituted in the second half.

Familiar frustration for Fulham
It is now five games without a win in all competitions for Fulham after they were unable to put the finishing touches to an encouraging display.

The Cottagers have failed to score in a league-high 10 games this season and despite having 25 shots their profligacy in front of goal remained.

Jimenez was missed as they pushed to break the deadlock in the second half but he was guilty of passing up a very good opportunity when he sent his shot spinning wide after Castagne's effort was cleared off the line.

Their lack of ruthlessness in front of goal was exemplified on the hour mark as Bobby Decordova-Reid broke free after winning a 50-50 challenge with Jarrad Branthwaite.

Willian was up in support but a superb two-on-one situation did not even result in a shot as Decordova-Reid delayed the pass just long enough so that shooting became the better option, and Ben Godfrey was able to cut it out.

"I have to say the goals are going to come. We cannot keep creating chances and not score," Silva told BBC Match of the Day.

"The decision-making has to be better and be calm enough to make the right decisions. The decision-making is having a big impact when you arrive in so many dangerous situations and we have to do better to score more goals."

Silva's team should not be involved in a relegation scrap this season but will know that until they can become more clinical, they risk being dragged in.

A point gained and two dropped for Everton?
Given the way the second half played out, Everton would surely have happily accepted a point when the board went up to indicate six added minutes.

However, given the glaring nature of Beto's miss and the opportunities for the Portuguese forward and Godfrey in the goalmouth chaos that came soon after, Sean Dyche will be wondering how his side managed not to win.

It would have been a significant boost at the start of a crucial week for the club as their appeal against a points deduction gets under way.

That they now find themselves in the relegation zone only serves to highlight how much is riding on the outcome.

Dyche was able to use the initial punishment as a way of galvanising his players but after a good spell before Christmas their form has dipped, albeit during a tough run of fixtures, and they were distinctly second-best after half-time in west London.

"We're a bit stretched at the moment, but there was maximum effort and maximum mentality," Dyche told Match of the Day.

"A good 0-0, if there is such a thing, but we're stretched and asking a lot of them, even from players that are not totally match fit.

"The group are giving everything, supported by a fantastic fanbase. There is a lot of work to do but clear signs of a group giving everything for the cause, even when we have a lot of injuries."

Every point counts and this one could make all the difference come May, they can only hope that they aren't looking back and seeing this as a vital two points dropped.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68065095

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Post-Everton Press Conference
Marco Silva believes Fulham did enough to defeat Everton at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night.

The Whites had 25 efforts on goal, going closest when Timothy Castagne hit the bar and Tosin drew a fantastic save from Jordan Pickford.

Our visitors were not without their threat, but when asked if he was disappointed to take just one point from the game, Silva replied: "With the result, yes, I am disappointed.

"There were chances in both ends, I have to be honest, both teams had chances to score. Clearly, in my opinion, we were the most dominant team on the pitch. All the stats show that as well – the shots, corners, possession.

"We didn't start so, so well, I think they started a little bit better than us. But from the moment that we started to settle our game and play in our way and start to build and create some moments, we started to be the dominant team on the pitch.

"We knew about their away form, their away record that is really good this season. Most of the points that Everton has right now came from the away games, and we knew that.

"Many, many times they were really strong with some counter-attacks or some set-pieces, and from these moments came the chances they created. But looking overall at the game, I think we created many, many chances to score.

"Second half we pushed them completely back, I think we were really dominant during the second half. Some good moments of football, we just missed putting the ball in the net, because I think we did create enough.

"The decision making in some moments has to be much better, to be more assertive, in some moments more calm in some decisions as well, because we were arriving in so many dangerous areas, so many times that we should have created even more chances and been more ruthless and clinical to finish the moments."

The match saw Raúl Jiménez and Issa Diop substituted, with Silva revealing that each player had felt his hamstring.

"Both came off with some hamstring issues there," he explained. "Let's see how they are going to be in the next hours. They are going to be assessed by the medical department and let's see how they're going to be.

"When you have some issues in the hamstring, it's not a good sign. When you play three games in seven days, such intense games and all that stuff, you have always a risk there.

"In some moments it's possible for us to rotate, but it's not been easy to rotate some players, too, and we have this type of risk that we have to take."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/january/30/post-everton-press-conference/

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Fulham plot last gasp move for Chelsea striker Armando Broja
Fulham have identified Chelsea striker Armando Broja as their primary target as we approach the closing stages of the January transfer window.

The Telegraph reports that the Cottagers are hoping to strike an agreement with their London neighbours, who will not stand in the way of the striker's potential exit.

Fulham manager Marco Silva is desperate to bolster his attacking options this month despite the resurgence of Raul Jimenez, although the Mexican is already on the wrong side of 30.

Broja has popped up on Silva's radar and is seen as the ideal replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic, who departed the club to join Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal in the summer.

The problem for Fulham is that Chelsea value Broja at £50 million, which is considered a steep price for the Cottagers, but they harbour hopes of finalising a deal nonetheless.

Chelsea are willing to listen to offers for their academy graduate whose departure will represent pure profit for the Blues in their quest to generate funds for another summer splurge.

The Blues are also on the market for a new striker but are willing to wait until the summer before sanctioning a marquee addition.

Napoli hitman Victor Osimhen is the club's primary target, and Broja's departure will help raise funds to trigger the Nigerian's €120m release clause.

Osimhen is seen as the final piece of Mauricio Pochettino's side, who have struggled with chance conversion this season and are willing to sacrifice one of their own to get a deal over the line.

Broja has struggled for form and consistency since recovering from his anterior crucial ligament injury (ACL), failing to provide the spark desperately needed by the Blues in the final third.

The 22-year-old has returned a meagre two goals in 19 games across all competitions, but his struggles have done little to deter potential suitors across the Premier League.

Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United have also been credited with an interest in Broja, but Fulham are actively pushing to get a deal done before Thursday's deadline.



https://sports-view.co.uk/2024/01/fulham-plot-last-gasp-move-for-chelsea-striker-armando-broja

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Fulham still pushing to sign in-demand striker but reluctant to pay £50m price-tag
Fulham are reportedly interested in signing Armando Broja, but they are hesitant to meet Chelsea's £50 million valuation for the player. Chelsea are open to selling Broja before the transfer deadline this week.

As Broja emerged from Chelsea's youth academy, Mauricio Pochettino's side stands to make a significant profit from his sale.

Despite considerable interest in Broja, clubs are finding it difficult to meet Chelsea's asking price, which is reportedly around £50 million. This price tag may seem high considering Broja has only scored two goals in 19 appearances across all competitions this season.

His most successful club campaign came during his loan spell at Southampton in 2021/22, where he scored six goals in 32 Premier League games.

Wolves are eager to secure the 22-year-old, and they reportedly made an attempt to sign him on loan, but Chelsea rejected the approach, indicating their preference for a permanent transfer. Additionally, Gary O'Neil's side declined to include an obligation to buy in the loan deal for Broja.

It is reported that Fulham head coach Marco Silva is keen to strike a deal to sign Broja, considering him his preferred choice for a late January transfer. Silva is hopeful of securing Broja's signature for Fulham, per Football365.

Silva has yet to find a replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic, who departed for Al Hilal last summer. Raul Jimenez has taken on the responsibility of leading the line for Fulham, tallying five goals in 18 Premier League appearances in the 2023/24 season.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/01/30/fulham-still-pushing-to-sign-in-demand-chelsea-striker-armando-broja-but-reluctant-to-pay-50m-price-tag/

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Fulham and Brentford line up late Morgan Whittaker bid

Fulham and Brentford scouts were present to watch Morgan Whittaker, sparking rumours of a late move this month.
According to Football Insider, Fulham and Brentford scouts, they watched Morgan Whittaker in action in a recent game. Their presence sparked rumours of an imminent move for the attacker, who has made 23 goal contributions this season for Plymouth.

Fulham, Brentford will move for Morgan Whittaker?
There are only a few days left in the transfer window for clubs to make a firm decision and sign the necessary players. Premier League sides are looking at fresh talents, and some may even dwele into the pool within the EFL Championship.

Fulham and Brentford are reportedly keen on Plymouth's Morgan Whittaker, as the 23-year-old could get a dream move in the next day or so. Fulham had been interested in the attacker, who has 23 goal contributions this season for Plymouth.

The Cottagers and Brentford had sent scouts to watch Whittaker in action during Plymouth's 1-1 draw with Leeds United. The observation's lateness has sparked rumours that a late move from the London duo could materialise.

As for Brentford's interest, it may have come due to complications in the deal to sign Antonio Nusa, despite initially agreeing to everything with Club Brugge. However, there are still chances of the Norwegian signing on the dotted line, but if not, a transfer for Whittaker could be on the cards.

Are Plymouth willing to sell Whittaker?
On sporting terms, losing Whittaker midway through the season would be a blow for Plymouth as they might have had a different vision with him in the squad. The 23-year-old's 16 goals this season make him the second-best scorer in the division behind Blackburn's Sammie Smozdics.

However, Plymouth spent a record £1 million signing him from Swansea last summer, where he had to cut short his loan at Home Park. The move has paid dividends, considering the 23 goal contributions he's had for Plymouth, which includes seven assists as well.

From a financial point of view, should Plymouth entertain late offers from the likes of Brentford or Fulham, the Championship side will make a hefty profit on their investment in Whittaker.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/01/31/fulham-and-brentford-line-up-late-morgan-whittaker-bid/

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Both sides miss chances as Fulham draw with Everton
Both teams missed chances during a lively goalless draw at Craven Cottage.

Everton went close to scoring in the first half when James Tarkowski's header was deflected onto the bar by Whites defender Issa Diop and Timothy Castagne came to the rescue by hooking the resulting loose ball off the line.

Raul Jimenez squandered a golden chance to put Fulham ahead before the interval, firing wide of the target after Castagne's deflected shot had been cleared off the line by Tarkowski.

Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin headed against the top of the bar, and Fulham themselves hit the woodwork midway through the second half when Castagne's looping header came back off the bar.

Fulham dominated much of the second half but were unable to find a goal, with keeper Jordan Pickford superbly saving Tosin Adarabioyo's header and Bobby De Cordova-Reid shooting just wide from Antonee Robinson's cross.

And in stoppage time, both teams missed sitters, with Rodrigo Muniz heading straight at Pickford when the striker was unchallenged – as was Beto, who headed over in the final moments with the goal at his mercy.
Fulham: Leno, Castagne, Tosin, Diop (Ream 75), Robinson, Palhinha, Cairney, De Cordova-Reid, Pereira, Willian, Jimenez (Muniz 45)
Subs not used: Rodak, Tete, Reed, Lukic, Vinicius, Francois, Sekularac.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/sport/fulham-v-everton-report-012024944

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Fulham player ratings - 'Different class' 9/10 but 'shocking' 3 vs Everton
Fulham will feel robbed of three points against Everton after a performance that had everything except a goal.

Fulham puffed and puffed but could not blow the Everton house down as points were shared in a goalless draw at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night.

Marco Silva's side dominated against the Toffees with a confident showing in all departments but up top with strike options failing to meet a flurry of crosses provided by Andreas Pereira, Tom Cairney and Antonee Robinson. Raul Jiminez was hooked at half time in favour of Rodrigo Muniz but little provided the threat needed to win a Premier League game.

There were plenty of positives for Fulham supporters to take from the midweek action but will feel that was a match their side should have picked up three points from. Here's how the Fulham players fared.

1. Bernd Leno - 7
A reliable performance from the shot-stopper. There whenever Fulham needed him - did fumble a first half corner which could have been punished.

2. Antonee Robinson - 9
A different class of late. His pace was once again a major danger going forwards and an asset getting back on the break. Muniz had to score Robinson's late cross.

3. Tosin Adarabioyo - 7
Never looked uncomfortable against the Everton attacked and picked some brilliant balls out.

4. Issa Diop - 7
Made a vital early block to stop a rare Everton chance and looked confident until his second half sub.

5. Timothy Castagne - 7
His best performance in a Fulham shirt for a few weeks. Almost provided the assist for Palhinha and nearly saw his own shot deflected in. Made an important goal line clearance too.

6. Joao Palhinha - 7
Combative as ever in the middle but could have maybe had two goals tonight - one from a headed chance and a more difficult half-volley in the second half. Was unusually clumsy to pick up an early yellow.

7. Tom Cairney - 6
Cairney played a lot of nice stuff with the ball at his feet and was a calm influence. Lacked that cutting edge to carve out a golden opportunity.

8. Willian - 6
An immediate influence as he worked a good opportunity in the first minute and lively throughout the first half. Looked very dogged after the break and faded in the game.

9. Andreas Pereira - 8
Looked like the one to make things happen as he grew in influence in the second half. Played some great balls into the box that were begging to be met, but were not.

10. Bobby De Cordova-Reid - 4
A frustrating performance from the winger had fans in Craven Cottage vocal. Almost stole through with an alert tackle in the second half but his pass to Willian was poor.

11. Raul Jiminez - 3
The striker did manage some better hold up play tonight and looked raring to go as he hit the target with a minute on the clock. However, the story will be about his shocking finish for a golden chance before half time. His crosses often lacked quality too.

12. SUB - Rodrigo Muniz - 5
Kept himself in the danger places where Jimenez didn't but headed a beautiful chance into Pickford's gloves very late on - your striker needs to score those. Did make an important header on his own line from a good Everton set play.

13. SUB - Tim Ream - 6
Fine performance from the centre-back. Set Antonee Robinson off nicely a couple times.

14. Kristian Sekularac - N/A
Unused sub.

15. Tyrese Francois - N/A
Unused sub.

16. Carlos Vinicius - N/A
Unused sub.

17. Sasa Lukic - N/A
Unused sub.

18. Harrison Reed - N/A
Unused sub.

19. Kenny Tete - N/A
Unused sub.

20. Marek Rodak - N/A
Unused sub.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-player-ratings-different-class-910-but-shocking-3-vs-everton-4499020

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Fulham do everything but score in pulsating encounter with dogged Everton
Fulham 0

Everton 0

They managed 42 shots between them - the lion's share to Fulham with 25 - but in the end the game somehow ended goalless.

It was one of those thrilling games that defies logic. The xGs were working overtime, but the white nets stayed virginal to the end.

Fulham once again showed they badly miss the cutting edge that would reward some fine football, but at least they gave a good account of themselves and look way too good to get sucked into any dogfight at the bottom.

Everton, obstinate and tenacious, perhaps deserved the luck they got to hold onto a point, although they dropped into the bottom three because of Luton's crushing victory over Brighton.

It has not been a happy week for the Whites. Dumped out of both domestic cup competitions and the club's doyens seemingly at loggerheads with some of the fanbase over ticket prices.

If ever a win was needed to bring some cheer, this was the moment. But at least they put in a good performance.

The remainder of Fulham's season does not exactly scream unfettered excitement, but mid-table safety has to be the ambition now.

Dispelling the gloom from defeat to Newcastle in the FA Cup looked more likely with a starting XI including key players who did not feature at kick-off against the Geordies.

Joao Palhinha, Tom Cairney and Raul Jimenez returned. Harry Wilson's shoulder injury ruled him out, but it was otherwise the strongest possible line-up.

Palhinha in particular, was astonishing. One minute flashing a header over from an Andreas Pereira free-kick, then tracking back to thwart a marauding Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

He was everywhere during an action-packed first half, picking up an inevitable booking in his efforts to bend the game to his will. Cairney too, was soon threading beautiful passes with that gossamer-light touch.

A riveting tempo guaranteed thrills and spills at both ends. Robinson forced Jordan Pickford into a save, Pereira just cleared the bar with a rasper.

Jimenez missed a glorious chance from close in after Bobby Decordova-Reid teed up Castagne for a shot that was charged down but fell into the path of the Mexican, who should really have scored.

Everton had their moments too. Jack Harrison blazed wide early on and Arnaut Danjuma's run from deep almost ended in a goal for the Toffees.

The Whites had an almighty let off when a scuffed shot bounced down off the crossbar via the head of Issa Diop and was on its way across the line after seemingly brushing off Antonee Robinson's arm until Timothy Castagne stuck out a leg to flick the ball away.

Two seasons ago, the teams played out another thrilling goalless draw at the Cottage and somehow it was again 0-0 despite a host of chances for both sides.

The chances kept coming after the break too. Calvert-Lewin clipped the top of the crossbar with a header from a corner and then nodded onto the roof of the net.

But that was merely a prelude to an incredible spell of pressure from Marco Silva's men that seemed as though it must surely bear fruit eventually. Shots rained in. Everton dropped deeper and deeper. Corner after corner added to the increasing pressure. They won 15 of them, in all.

Ben Godfrey somehow got back to prevent Willian from tapping in a De Cordova-Reid cross. Castagne's head connected with a De Cordova-Reid nod goalwards and it clipped the bar.

And they came even closer when Tosin's header from a Willian cross looked destined for the top corner, only for England's number one Pickford to claw away with a superb save.

Both substitute strikers could have won it at the death too. Rodrigo Muniz, who came on for Jimenez at half time, missed from close range when it seemed easier to score and Beto, for Everton, nodded over from even closer in.

This was a game that had everything apart from a goal.

Whites: (4-2-3-1) Leno - Castagne, Tosin, Diop (Ream 75), Robinson - Joao Palhinha, Cairney - De Cordova-Reid, Pereira, Willian - Jimenez (Muniz h/t)

Toffees: (4-4-1-1) Pickford - Godfrey, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko - Young (Patterson 82), Garner, McNeil, Danjuma (Dobbin 90) - Harrison - Calvert-Lewin (Beto 81)

Attendance: 24,376



https://www.capitalfootball.co.uk/single-post/fulham-do-everything-but-score-in-pulsating-encounter-with-dogged-everton

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Fulham 0-0 Everton: Goalless draw at Craven Cottage
Cottagers lack cutting edge against Toffees

Fulham's scoring woes continued as their missed opportunities saw them held to a goalless Premier League draw with Everton at Craven Cottage.

After last week's exit from both the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup, the west Londoners failed to bounce back with a win over an Everton side, who now sit in the bottom three following Luton's 4-0 victory over Brighton.

Raul Jimenez, who scored four goals in December, could not replicate last month's success before Rodrigo Muniz was largely anonymous when called upon in the second half.

Fulham started with purpose. After Andreas Pereira's earlier strike sailed over the crossbar, Antonee Robinson forced Jordan Pickford into action when he cut onto his weaker right foot and won a corner for the hosts with a driven effort from range.

After last week's poor showing in front of goal during both cup defeats, the Cottagers' lack of cutting edge seemed to continue when Jimenez's shot managed to go out for a throw-in instead of hitting the target.

And they almost rued their missed opportunities when Everton failed to convert the chance of the match in the 24th minute.

Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno parried Ashley Young's curling free-kick into the path of James Tarkowski, who looked set to tap the Toffees ahead.

Towering defender Issa Diop had other ideas, positioning himself perfectly and nodding Tarkowski's rebounded effort onto the crossbar before a herd of white shirts swarmed the six-yard area and kept the scores level.

Pereira continued to bombard the Everton goal with pot shots but it was Jimenez who would be the most frustrated after another glaring miss.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-vs-everton-premier-league-result-today-2024-b1135818.html

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Fulham 0-0 Everton: Toffees drop in to bottom three; Cottagers up to dizzy heights of 12th
Luton's massive win over Brighton means Everton have fallen in to the relegation zone in the Premier League after their 0-0 draw at Fulham.

After last week's exit from both the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup, the west Londoners failed to bounce back with a win over an Everton side, who now sit in the bottom three following Luton's 4-0 victory over Brighton.

Raul Jimenez, who scored four goals in December, could not replicate last month's success before Rodrigo Muniz was largely anonymous when called upon in the second half.

Fulham started with purpose. After Andreas Pereira's earlier strike sailed over the crossbar, Antonee Robinson forced Jordan Pickford into action when he cut onto his weaker right foot and won a corner for the hosts with a driven effort from range.

After last week's poor showing in front of goal during both cup defeats, the Cottagers' lack of cutting edge seemed to continue when Jimenez's shot managed to go out for a throw-in instead of hitting the target.

And they almost rued their missed opportunities when Everton failed to convert the chance of the match in the 24th minute.

Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno parried Ashley Young's curling free-kick into the path of James Tarkowski, who looked set to tap the Toffees ahead.

Towering defender Issa Diop had other ideas, positioning himself perfectly and nodding Tarkowski's rebounded effort onto the crossbar before a herd of white shirts swarmed the six-yard area and kept the scores level.

Pereira continued to bombard the Everton goal with pot shots but it was Jimenez who would be the most frustrated after another glaring miss.

Pickford's save from a Timothy Castagne shot gave the Mexico international a golden opportunity to score into an open net but he opened his body up too much and missed the target from close range.

Jimenez's first-half display saw him substituted at the break and it was Everton's striker who looked the most dangerous when Dominic Calvert-Lewin rose highest from a corner and clipped the crossbar, nearly edging the visitors ahead.

On the hour mark, Castagne won a flick-on from a set-piece and was also denied by the woodwork as both sides' frustrations began to grow.

The momentum continued in the hosts' favour but a remarkable save from England number one Pickford kept it even.

Willian – who had been a shadow of his usual self – jinked past his man and delivered a well-weighted cross to Tosin Adarabioyo, whose header looked destined for the top corner but was denied by Pickford's acrobatic fingertip stop.



https://www.football365.com/news/fulham-0-0-everton-report-toffees-in-bottom-three-premier-league

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Fulham held 0-0 by relegation-threatened Everton in Premier League
LONDON (AP) - Fulham´s scoring problems continued as the team was held 0-0 by relegation-threatened Everton in the Premier League on Tuesday.

After last week´s exit from both the English League Cup and the FA Cup, the west Londoners failed to bounce back with a win over an Everton side which now sits in the bottom three following Luton´s 4-0 victory over Brighton.

Fulham forward Raul Jimenez, who scored four goals in December, could not replicate last month´s success while Rodrigo Muniz was largely anonymous at Craven Cottage when called upon in the second half.

After its poor showing in front of goal during both cup defeats, the midtable Cottagers´ lack of cutting edge seemed to continue when Jimenez´s shot managed to go out for a throw-in instead of hitting the target.

Everton failed to convert the chance of the match in the 24th minute. Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno parried Ashley Young´s curling free kick into the path of James Tarkowski, who looked set to tap the Toffees ahead. Towering defender Issa Diop had other ideas, positioning himself perfectly and nodding Tarkowski´s rebounded effort onto the crossbar before safety was restored.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13025721/Fulham-held-0-0-relegation-threatened-Everton-Premier-League.html

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Fulham player ratings from 0-0 draw against Everton – Class of Cairney unable to unlock stubborn Toffees defence
A man-of-the-match display from goalkeeper Jordan Pickford held Fulham to a goalless draw against Everton on Tuesday night, extending the Whites' winless run in all competitions to five matches.

Fulham dominated possession against Sean Dyche's side, but could not find a way past the England goalkeeper, with Timothy Castagne also denied by the woodwork.

Everton hit the crossbar twice themselves through James Tarkowski and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, but it was the home side who ended the evening the more frustrated.

Here are Dan Evans' player ratings from Craven Cottage.

Bernd Leno – 6

Almost gifted Everton a goal as he pushed an Ashley Young free-kick into a dangerous area. Was fortunate to see James Tarkowski's follow up deflected on to the bar. Made two saves but neither were particular spectacular.

Timothy Castagne – 7

Five clearances and three interceptions were evidence of an improved defensive display from his showing in the second leg of the EFL Cup semi-final against Liverpool. Brilliantly cleared off the line at the last moment after Tarkowski had hit the bar. Also got forward more often than he has been lately.

Issa Diop – 6

Made four clearances and looked assured alongside Tosin once more. Will be a worry for Marco Silva that he was forced off in the second half, particularly with Calvin Bassey still away at the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria.

Tosin Adarabioyo – 6

Not quite as imperious as he has been in recent weeks but is continuing to have a fine season following his return from injury. Played a magnificent crossfield pass into the path of Antonee Robinson in the second half and was unfortunate to be denied the winning goal by some Pickford heroics.

Antonee Robinson – 6

Another solid showing but was not able to get forward to the same effect as when he is at his best. Got into some decent positions but could not find the right cross.

Andreas Pereira – 5

Guilty of trying to force things as Fulham searched for a breakthrough. Ended up taking six shots and none of them hit the target.

Joao Palhinha – 7

Put in a couple of important tackles to halt Everton breakaways but was booked for a mistimed challenge on Jack Harrison. Often left to do much of the defensive work in midfield on his own but rarely looks flustered.

Tom Cairney – 7

At times looked the only Fulham player capable of retaining their composure for long enough to unpick a well-drilled Everton defence. Played some lovely passes wide to Robinson on the left flank. Continues to thrive after earning himself a place in the team at the end of last year.

Willian – 7

Fulham's most involved attacker but could not quite find the moment to decide the game in his team's favour. Almost set up Tosin for the winner with an inventive cross.

Raul Jimenez – 6

Missed a glorious chance to give Fulham the lead just before half-time, going for power when placement was required. Showed tidy feet for some link-up play but injury that forced him off at half-time will be a major concern, and could encourage the club to do some business before the transfer window closes.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid – 6

Could not find the right pass to Willian with what was probably the clearest opening for Fulham. Far more involved than in recent games and will likely keep his place in the team for the foreseeable future following Harry Wilson's recent shoulder injury.

Subs:

Rodrigo Muniz – 6

Was busy after replacing Jimenez at half-time but can still look very raw. Headed straight at Pickford with a good opportunity in the dying moments.

Tim Ream – 6

A composed showing from the veteran after being called into action late on.



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/sport/fulham-player-ratings-from-0-0-draw-against-everton-class-of-cairney-unable-to-unlock-stubborn-toffees-defence/

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva confirms two major injury blows for Fulham in Everton draw
Fulham boss Marco Silva was forced into two changes during the match against Everton.

Fulham manager Marco Silva admitted that his side had picked up two new injuries in the goalless draw against Everton on Tuesday night as he lamented the toll of three fixtures in seven days.

The Cottagers created plenty of chances against the Toffees but struggled to find the killer finish as the meeting proved to be a tale of two attacks who lacked a clinical edge. It appeared that Silva had tried to change things up at halftime, bringing on Rodrigo Muniz for Raul Jiminez, but admitted that substitution was unforced after the match.

Silva said: "Not just him [Jimenez], even Issa Diop come out with some hamstring pain. Let's see how it's going to be in the next hours. They are going to be assessed by the medical department. It's not a good sign - when you play three intense games in seven days you always have a risk there. For us, it's not been easy to rotate."

The Fulham boss was also quizzed about the club's transfer strategy going into the final days of the January transfer window but admitted that it could be a quiet 48 hours for his side.

Silva said: "I'm not expecting many things until the end of the market. If it was possible to do something we should have done it at the beginning of the market with the semi-finals and the FA Cup. The board is trying to do their best."

The draw with Everton leaves Fulham in 12th place, seven points ahead of Everton in 18th and the relegation zone. With the Cottagers in the bottom half, Silva was also asked if he feared being dragged into a relegation battle.

He said: "We have to keep working really hard to get points from all the games, that's it. We are not thinking anything more. The next game is important for us. It's all focus on Bournemouth. We are not concerned. We are confident in what we are doing."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/marco-silva-confirms-two-major-injury-blows-for-fulham-in-everton-draw-4499031

[WhiteJC]

Fulham interested in Armando Broja but 'have not met' Chelsea's £50m asking price — report
Pay up, or shut up
Chelsea have rejected a loan offer from Wolverhampton Wanderers for Armando Broja. It would appear that we will only entertain offers for a permanent transfer for the 22-year-old striker, having reportedly set a £50m asking price.

That might seem a bit too high, but it may be what the market's dictating, especially if Fulham were to loosen their purse strings. Their manager, Marco Silva is apparently "hoping" that a deal can be struck in the final two days of the January transfer window, with his team continuing to struggle to replace the production of Aleksandar Mitrović, who left in the summer for the Saudi Pro League.

The Telegraph report that Fulham "have not met" our valuation yet but "remain in the race". It's a bit of a one-team race, or perhaps more accurately, a race against the clock where the clock is a briefcase full of cold hard cash money millions.

Will anyone cross the finish line?



https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours-news/2024/1/30/24056308/fulham-interested-in-armando-broja-but-have-not-met-chelseas-50m-asking-price-report

[WhiteJC]

Pickford frustrates Fulham
For the second season in succession, Fulham and Everton played a goalless draw at Craven Cottage. But while last term's affair highlighted Frank Lampard's limitations, Sean Dyche would have been delighted with a clean sheet and a point at the beginning of a big week for the Toffees. Everton were determined, well organised and grew in confidence as the contest went on – even if they slipped into the bottom three after Luton put four past Brighton and Hove Albion in the night's most eye-catching result. Marco Silva hardly needed reminding his side needs more of a killer instinct in the final third – and the silver lining in Fulham's failure to convert a host of clear-cut chances is that the result might prompt the club's hierarchy to bring in a new forward in the closing hours of the transfer window.

Raul Jimenez was substituted at half time complaining of soreness in his calf, but the Mexican squandered the game's best chance drilling wide of the past when it seemed simpler to score after Timothy Castagne's drive had deflected into his path inside the six-yard box. Rodrigo Muniz missed a pair of very presentable chances in the second half before Castagne headed against the crossbar. Tosin Adarabioyo was denied by a splendid reflex save from the outstanding Jordan Pickford, but Dyche's charges could have won it in stoppage when both Ben Godfrey and Beto failed to convert after a ridiculous goalmouth scramble.

Silva reverted to the same side that had pushed Liverpool all the way last week – although Harry Wilson's shoulder injury against Newcastle meant that Kristian Sekularac was promoted from the under 21s as one of the substitutes. Jimenez hammered over the bar in the very first minute after Willian looked as though he had been taken out, but Everton threatened on the break from the outset with Jack Harrison shooting wastefully wide and Dominic Calvert-Lewin only thwarted by a brilliant block from Issa Diop.

Andreas Pereira was a whisker away from finding the top corner when picked out by Tom Cairney from a short corner before Pickford made a magnificent save to keep out a long-range drive from Antonee Robinson. Everton then went close as a free kick caused carnage in the Fulham area. Bernd Leno pushed out Ashley Young's delivery and James Tarkowski's mishit finish deflected off Diop and spun back off the crossbar before Castagne somehow cleared. The visiting fans screamed for a goal but the technology proved that the whole bar was not over the line.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid saw a shot from the left angle of the area blocked at source as the Whites continued to make the running, but Everton immediately broke down the other end of the field and Arant Danjuma placed his shot well wide. Pereira's audacious even from the outside the area dipped too late to avoid clear the crossbar by inches, but Jimenez's decision to go for power rather than placement was the most egregious miss of them all.

Fulham chances were few and far between immediately after the interval as Everton stepped things up. Calvert-Lewin headed against the crossbar before looping another header onto the roof of the net before Godfrey effortlessly whipped the ball of Willian's toes when the Brazilian veteran looked the firm favourite to convert De Cordova-Reid's cross. Muniz huffed and puffed but added little of quality, with one shot deflected wide – and Fulham failed to find a late winner with Pereira seeing a shot deflected into the side netting and Pickford producing more heroics to thwart Adarabioyo.

There was yet more drama deep into stoppage time when Beto, who somehow headed over the bar when it seemed simpler to score from a set play, was denied by Ream and the Portuguese had little time to react when Godfrey slammed the follow up straight into him, allowing Leno to emerge with the ball. It was one of the more watchable goalless draws of the season, but that will have serve as scant consolation to the home side.

FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, A. Robinson, Adarabioyo, Diop (Ream 75); Palhinha, Cairney; De Cordova-Reid, Willian, Pereira; Jimenez (Muniz 45) Subs (not used): Rodak, Tete, Reed, Lukic, Francois, Sekularac, Vinicius.

BOOKED: Palhinha.

EVERTON (4-4-1-1): Pickford; Godfrey, Mykolenko, Branthwaite, Tarkowski; Young (Patterson 81), Danjuma (Dobbin 90), Garner, McNeil; Harrison; Calvert-Lewin. Subs (not used): Viriginia, Keane, Lonergan, Hunt, Chermiti, Metcalfe.

BOOKED: Godrey, Branthwaite.

REFEREE: Thomas Brammall

ATTENDANCE: 24,376



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/pickford-frustrates-fulham/

[ianthailand]

London World.com gave Cairney a 6. I thought he ran the game last night, a diamond in a sea of mediocrity. Robinson played well but a 9 was a bit high imo. Too many easy give aways but did give us a more attacking threat than many others.

[Bill2]

London World.com gave Cairney a 6. I thought he ran the game last night, a diamond in a sea of mediocrity. Robinson played well but a 9 was a bit high imo. Too many easy give aways but did give us a more attacking threat than many others.

He put through a couple of lovely balls to Robinson, unfortunately nothing came from them. One of the posts gave Pereira an 8, the missed the decimal point out as more like a 0.8. Just don't see anything in him and as for his finishing😭

[filham]

Look at the bottom of the table. Everton would not be down there but for the points deduction and it seems they will soon climb up the table. Lut0n have just had a great 4-0 win against Brighton and no longer look like relegation favourites. We need to start scoring goals and picking up points in order to achieve that 40 point target.

[Jims Dentist]

London World.com gave Cairney a 6. I thought he ran the game last night, a diamond in a sea of mediocrity. Robinson played well but a 9 was a bit high imo. Too many easy give aways but did give us a more attacking threat than many others.

He put through a couple of lovely balls to Robinson, unfortunately nothing came from them. One of the posts gave Pereira an 8, the missed the decimal point out as more like a 0.8. Just don't see anything in him and as for his finishing😭

Last night the team picked itself due to many absentees.
But totally agree re Pereira.
He is a weak link.
Playing in the 10 role he should offer far more than he has this season.