Saturday Fulham Stuff - 03/02/24...

[WhiteJC]

Fulham's Smart Play: Broja Loaned from Chelsea

Fulham's Strategic Loan Move: Armando Broja Joins from Chelsea
In a notable development that is sure to excite Fulham fans, the club has successfully secured the services of Chelsea striker Armando Broja on loan for the remainder of the season. This move, expertly orchestrated by the Fulham management, not only strengthens their attacking options but also demonstrates their shrewd approach to the transfer market. Let's delve into the specifics of this transfer, originally reported by Charlotte Daly in the Daily Mail, and explore what Broja's arrival means for Fulham.

Fulham's New Forward
The Albanian international completed his medical with Fulham on Thursday night, marking the beginning of his temporary stint at Craven Cottage. Fulham's commitment to bolstering their squad is evident in the acquisition of Broja, whose loan deal could potentially cost the club up to £4 million. This agreement includes an initial fee of £750,000, with additional payments linked to the player's performance and appearances throughout the season.

Negotiation Breakthrough
Initially, Chelsea had set a lofty valuation for Broja, seeking a £50 million deal, whether through a permanent sale or a loan with an obligation to buy. However, in a surprising turn of events, Chelsea's stance softened, ultimately agreeing to a £5 million loan fee. Fulham, alongside Wolverhampton Wanderers who had shown interest in Broja, were reluctant to meet this valuation. Yet, it was Fulham who managed to negotiate a more favourable deal, with the final figure expected to be significantly less than the £4 million cap, especially if Broja features regularly in the team's lineup.

Broja's Potential Impact
Despite a challenging season marred by an ACL injury and limited appearances, Broja has managed to find the back of the net twice in 19 appearances. His potential contribution to Fulham cannot be underestimated, especially as the team looks to consolidate their position and push for higher achievements in the league. Broja's arrival is a testament to Fulham's ambition and their ability to navigate the complex dynamics of the transfer market effectively.

Conclusion
The loan signing of Armando Broja from Chelsea is a clear indication of Fulham's intent and strategy. With his proven talent and the potential for significant impact, Broja's addition could be a turning point in Fulham's season. As the team continues to integrate him into their setup, it will be interesting to see how this move influences their performance on the pitch. Credit to Charlotte Daly of the Daily Mail for shedding light on this exciting transfer saga.



https://eplindex.com/103790/fulhams-smart-play-broja-loaned-from-chelsea.html

[WhiteJC]

Fulham manager Marco Silva fined £80,000 and warned
Fulham FC's manager Marco Silva has been fined £80,000 and warned as to his future conduct for a breach of FA Rule E3 following their Premier League game against Newcastle United FC on Saturday 16 December 2023.

Mr Silva admitted that his comments in the post-match media interviews following the fixture, constitute improper conduct in that they imply bias and/or question the integrity of, and/or are insulting towards the match official (Referee) and/or the Video Assistant Referee, and/or bring the game into disrepute. The sanction was imposed by an independent Regulatory Commission.



https://www.thefa.com/news/2024/feb/01/silva-fined-020224

[WhiteJC]

Galatasaray Secures Fulham Striker Transfer to Bolster Attack
Galatasaray have found their replacement for departed striker Cedric Bakambu, agreeing a loan deal with Fulham for Carlos Vinicius until the end of the season. This move bolsters their attacking options alongside Mauro Icardi.

According to Aksam, Galatasaray have finalized terms with both Vinicius and his club Fulham. The 28-year-old Brazilian striker is expected to arrive in Istanbul shortly for medicals and finalize the contract signing.

Bakambu's recent departure left a void in Galatasaray's attack. Vinicius, with his experience and goal-scoring record, aims to fill that gap and contribute to the team's success.

Vinicius joined Fulham in 2022 for €5 million and has made 48 appearances, scoring 8 goals and providing 3 assists.

The loan deal allows Galatasaray to assess Vinicius' performance and explore their options for the future, while the player seeks additional playing time.

Venicius will be competing with Mauro Icardi and Halil Dervisoglu for a place up front in the team. He is expected to receive playing time rotating with Icardi who is currently first choice striker.

The Red-Yellows tend to play one striker under the management of Okan Buruk.

The Lions are in the middle of the Super Lig title race with rivals Fenerbahce and are competing in the Europa League.



https://turkish-football.com/galatasaray-secures-fulham-striker-transfer-to-bolster-attack/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham now set to lose "strong" player as part of double deal
The Cottagers are set to make room for Broja in Silva's side.

Ending the window in dramatic fashion, Fulham took advantage of Chelsea's U-turn to sign Armando Broja on loan in a deal reportedly worth up to £4m. After welcoming the forward, however, the Cottagers are now reportedly set to lose one of Marco Silva's other attacking options, as a European club stop off in London as part of a double swoop.

Fulham transfer news
After putting pen to paper on the loan move, Broja told FFCtv: "It feels amazing. I'm really happy to be here and I can't wait to get started, meet the players and manager and play for the fans.

"The fans always play a big role and I can't wait to go to Craven Cottage and meet them all. I'm going to work hard for the team and create a real bond. I'm really honoured and excited to be here."

The arrival of Broja looks likely to have a knock-on effect elsewhere, however, with the London club now set to lose an attacking option after the conclusion of the January transfer window. According to Fabrizio Romano, Galatasaray have reached a verbal agreement to sign Carlos Vinicius on loan from Fulham until the end of the season in a double deal that will also reportedly see them sign Nottingham Forest's Serge Aurier.

Swapping Vinicius for Broja, Silva will hope that the latter gets firing straight away to finally hand Fulham a consistent goalscorer once more.

"Strong" Vinicius struggled at Fulham
After a year and a half at the club, Vinicius' loan move away from Fulham comes at the perfect time. Truth be told, the forward has struggled since completing the move, with Aleksandar Mitrovic's exit failing to provide the former Tottenham Hotspur man a springboard into Silva's starting role. Given the praise that Jose Mourinho once held for Vinicius, Fulham fans may have been left frustrated by his form.

Mourinho previously said via To the Land and Back during the forward's loan spell at Spurs: "He is a big boy, a strong boy, and needs to be more physical in the Premier League but I am happy. It is good for the team to have that because for example last season if Harry Kane needed a rest – we couldn't and because Vinicius is here, the squad is much more balanced."

Vinicius will now hope to rediscover his best form at Galatasaray, before potentially returning to finally make a significant impact back at Craven Cottage in the next campaign. It could be a vital few months for the striker's career.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-transfer-news-galatasaray-to-sign-carlos-vinicius-serge-aurier/

[WhiteJC]

Sources: Fulham prepared to allow two Brazilian players leave the club on loan
HITC understands that Fulham and Galatasaray are in advanced talks over a loan for striker Carlos Vinicius.

Despite the window slamming shut late last night, the transfer window in Turkey does not close until the 9th of February. This essentially means that Premier League clubs can still sell or loan players out but cannot replace them.

It seems Fulham are attempting to take advantage of the situation with HITC understanding that Carlos Vinicius, who is formerly of Tottenham Hotspur, will be moving to Turkish side Galatasaray.

The Turkish side look set to win the race for the Brazilian forward but sources have confirmed that multiple sides were interested in the 28-year-old striker.

Why Fulham are keen on letting him go
After the West London club confirmed the deadline day loan signing of Armando Broja, HITC understands that they are willing to allow Vinicius to leave the club on loan.

Broja, the towering forward made the short trip to the north bank of the River Thames to Craven Cottage to undergo his medical which HITC revealed yesterday.

Fulham director Tony Khan revealed on X his excitement over the signing of the Albanian: "I'm very excited that we've reached an agreement to bring Armando Broja to Fulham on loan until the end of the season."

As for Vinicius, the Brazilian is set to join the Turkish giants and could well play alongside former PSG striker Mauro Icardi and will feature in the Europa League following Galatasaray's third-place finish in a group that featured Man United and Bayern Munich.

Fulham set to allow another loan player to depart
Vinicius isn't the only South American player they are willing to allow to leave Craven Cottage on loan with the future of Rodrigo Muniz also up in the air.

HITC has also been told the club are considering allowing Muniz to move back to Brazil, with a number of clubs keen on taking him back to his homeland.

It seems that Fulham believe they have enough depth in that department to get through until the end of the season.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2024/02/02/sources-fulham-prepared-to-allow-two-brazilian-players-leave-the-club-on-loan/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham decision to keep player will cost them money – Club were ready to pay for him in January
Fulham decided against Tosin Adarabioyo's early departure in January, according to reports from Italy.

Sky Sport journalist Gianluca Di Marzio is the one with the information, claiming that AC Milan were interested in paying for his transfer.

Quoted by All Milan, the pundit says Fulham could've sold the player instead of seeing him walk for free at the end of his contract in the summer, but chose to keep him in the squad.

"There are players like Tosin Adarabioyo whose contract will expire in June. The Rossoneri would have liked to anticipate his farewell to Fulham, but the English decided not to sell him in January. Even if, in reality, they will then lose him for zero in the summer," said Di Marzio.

Adarabioyo has 15 appearances for Fulham this season, as despite his struggle with a groin injury, he became an important player for Marco Silva for the past couple of months.

That's a pretty good reason for the Whites to decide against his January move, not to mention that there are still a few months for the parties to try to find an agreement for him to stay at Craven Cottage.

So even though Adarabioyo's future remains completely unclear, that may have been a message from Fulham's plans, although they should know Milan will now be competing to give him a contract as well.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-decision-keep-player-will-cost-money-club-ready-pay-january/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham turned down AC Milan bid for Tosin
Fulham rejected a bid for centre back Tosin Adarabioyo from AC Milan in the closing hours of the transfer window, according to the Italian press.

Adarabioyo's contract at Craven Cottage expires in the summer and Fulham are hoping to convince the 26 year-old to extend it between now and the end of the season. The ball-playing defender was close to joining Monaco and Tottenham Hotspur last summer and attracted significant interest from both AC Milan and Inter Milan last month having returned to the heart of Marco Silva's defence after recovering from groin surgery.

Gianluca di Marzio told Sky Italia earlier today that the Rossoneri followed up their long-standing interest with a formal offer for the former Manchester City defender but Fulham were quick to turn it down with Marco Silva preferring to keep Adarabioyo in SW6 until the end of this current campaign – even if it ends up costing Fulham cash.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/fulham-turned-down-ac-milan-bid-for-tosin/

[WhiteJC]

Marco Silva: Fulham manager fined after pleading guilty to improper conduct

Marco Silva was appointed Fulham manager in 2021

Fulham manager Marco Silva has been fined £80,000 after admitting a charge of improper conduct.

He was charged after saying referee Sam Barrott "didn't have the experience to handle the pressure" following Fulham's 3-0 loss to Newcastle on 16 December.

Raul Jimenez was sent off for a foul on Sean Longstaff, but Silva was angry at an earlier challenge by Jamaal Lascelles on the Mexican.

Silva has been warned about his future conduct.

Jimenez was shown a red card after 22 minutes of the Premier League game at St James' Park for his challenge on Longstaff.

Barrott initially gave the striker a yellow card, but it was upgraded to a red following a video assistant referee review.

Silva was unhappy that a challenge on Jimenez by Lascelles went unpunished two minutes earlier.

"It was a really strange performance from the referee from the first minute to the last minute," said Silva.

"Lascelles cleared elbowed Raul and not even a foul. I'm not saying red card, but a clear foul. You need referees with experience and to be able to handle the pressure."

Asked if the referee was not experienced enough, Silva said: "Clearly, no doubt."
How to follow Fulham on the BBC banner



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68182148

[WhiteJC]

Fulham and West Ham have player 'on the list' ahead of summer – 'Tailor-made' for Premier League
Fulham and West Ham United have Hoffenheim's Anton Stach 'on the list' ahead of the summer, with the player keen on a move to England.

That's according to SportBILD, who say the 25-year-old is 'tailor-made' for the Premier League and there is interest in him too.

They explain that Fulham and West Ham 'have him on the list' and there could be a deal there to be done if Hoffenheim fail to qualify for Europe this season.

He's currently valued at €15m and 'definitely wants' to play in England in the next few years if the possibility is there for him to do so.

Whether either Fulham or West Ham make a move for him in the summer remains to be seen but the opportunity is therefore them if they want it.

Fulham could definitely be on the hunt for a new number six if they eventually lose Joao Palhinha, who has long been linked with a move away from Craven Cottage and is likely to be targeted again in the summer.

West Ham makes less sense given they signed Edson Alvarez last summer and brought in Kalvin Phillips in January, so are well covered in that position as it is.

That's not stopped Premier League sides from making moves in the past, though, and Stach is a name to keep an eye on moving forwards.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-west-ham-player-list-ahead-summer-tailor-made-premier-league/

[WhiteJC]

Burnley vs Fulham: A Fight for Points

Premier League Stalwarts: Burnley and Fulham's Crucial Encounter
In the intricate tapestry of Premier League football, the latest chapter unfolds at Turf Moor, where Burnley and Fulham are poised for a pivotal clash this Saturday in round 23. This match isn't just another game; it's a quest for revival as both teams strive to rediscover their winning ways in 2024.

Burnley's Quest to Escape the Drop
Vincent Kompany's Burnley, grappling with the shadows of relegation, encountered another setback in their recent 3-1 defeat to Manchester City. The Clarets' struggle is evident in their recent form – a solitary draw amidst four losses, including an FA Cup heartbreak against Tottenham. Sitting precariously at 19th with 12 points, they are a mere two points away from the bottom and five from safety, making every match a fight for survival.

Fulham's Search for Consistency
Contrastingly, Marco Silva's Fulham, positioned at a more comfortable 12th with 25 points, still face their own set of challenges. A string of unconvincing performances, culminating in a goalless stalemate against Everton, has left them winless in their last five outings. Their mid-table position belies the urgency for results, as they aim to distance themselves from the lower echelons of the league.

Historical Edge and Recent Struggles
Burnley historically holds sway over Fulham, with 49 victories in their last 100 encounters. However, Fulham's away form presents a stark contrast, having savored victory in only one of their last seven games on the road. Burnley's home record this season has been less than impressive, further intensifying the unpredictability of this encounter.

Predicting the Unpredictable
As both teams step onto the pitch, the air at Turf Moor will be thick with anticipation. Fulham, despite their unenviable record in away fixtures, are tipped as the marginal favourites. However, in the unpredictable theatre of the Premier League, forecasts often yield to the drama of the moment. The prediction leans towards a narrow 1-2 victory for Fulham, but in football, as in life, the only certainty is the excitement of the unknown.

This clash is more than a mere fixture; it's a narrative of resilience, aspiration, and the relentless pursuit of success. As Burnley and Fulham lock horns, each pass, each goal, each moment will be etched in the annals of their storied rivalry, reminding us once again why we cherish this beautiful game.



https://eplindex.com/103814/burnley-vs-fulham-a-fight-for-points.html

[WhiteJC]

Vinicius goes to Galatasaray on loan
Fulham forward Carlos Vinicius has joined Galatasaray on loan for the remainder of the season.

The Brazilian striker, who has scored eight goals in 48 games for the Whites, has been signed in order to add firepower to Galatasaray's title charge. Gala currently sit second in the Turkish Super Lig, level on points with leaders Fenerbahce, and are involved in the knockout stages of the Europa League.

There is no option to buy in the deal taking Vinicius to Istanbul and the 28 year-old will reassess his Fulham future on his return to London in the summer.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/vinicius-goes-to-galatasaray-on-loan/

[WhiteJC]

Vinicius Joins Galatasaray On Loan
Carlos Vinicius has joined Galatasaray S.K. on loan until the end of the season.

The striker will join up with the Turkish Süper Lig side, who currently sit second in the table and in pursuit of the title, as well as taking part in the Club's Europa League campaign.

We wish Carlos the best of luck for the rest of the season.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/february/02/vinicius-joins-galatasaray-on-loan/

[WhiteJC]

Burnley vs Fulham: Preview and Prediction

Fulham will be desperate to return to end the frustrating five-match winless run when they take on Burnley at Turf Moor on Saturday.
A full Premier League weekend greets us for the first time in weeks with Gameweek 23 of the 2023/24 season. The action on Saturday will get underway with the game between Everton and Tottenham Hotspur before Burnley and Fulham lock horns at Turf Moor.

Burnley will need some inspiration and an incredible turnaround in fortunes to avoid relegation from the Premier League. The Clarets have won just three of their 22 top-flight fixtures thus far this term, with 17th-placed Luton Town seven points ahead. Vincent Kompany's men went down 3-1 to Manchester City in their most recent outing.

On the other hand, Fulham's recent form is no better than Burnley's. The Cottagers have failed to win their last five games across all competitions, with the substandard run dropping them to 13th in the standings, only seven points ahead of 18th-placed Everton. So, results need to pick up for them to remain in the top flight.

The reverse fixture saw Burnley clinch a shock 2-0 win over Fulham, with Wilson Odobert and Sander Berge finding the back of the net. The Hard Tackle takes a closer look at the encounter ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides.

Team News & Tactics
Burnley
Vincent Kompany does not have any new concerns hampering his preparations ahead of his side's latest fixture. Against Fulham on Saturday, the Burnley manager will be bereft of the services of five first-team players.

Luca Koleosho is the most notable absentee, with the 19-year-old recovering from his season-ending knee injury. Koleosho accompanies Charlie Taylor (shoulder), Hannes Delcroix (knock), Hannes Delcroix (thigh), and Nathan Redmond (hamstring) on the sidelines.

Burnley will line up in a 4-4-2 formation against Fulham, with James Trafford taking his spot between the sticks. Taylor's absence and Connor Roberts's departure means Ameen Al-Dakhil should feature as the makeshift left-back again. He will join Vitinho, Dara O'Shea, and Hjalmar Ekdal in the backline.

As for the midfield unit, there is no looking past Sander Berge and Josh Brownhill as the midfield partnership. Johann Berg Gudmundsson and Wilson Odobert should be the two wide attackers, with Zeki Amdouni and David Datro Fofana being the strikers.

Probable Lineup (4-4-2): Trafford; Vitinho, O'Shea, Ekdal, Al-Dakhil; Gudmundsson, Berge, Brownhill, Odobert; Amdouni, Datro Fofana

Fulham
Unlike his counterpart in the Burnley dugout, Marco Silva has new issues to deal with ahead of the trip to Turf Moor. The Fulham manager will be without six first-team players on Saturday afternoon.

Issa Diop and Raul Jimenez are the two absentees, with the duo picking up hamstring injuries earlier this week against Everton. Diop and Jimenez will join Harry Wilson (shoulder) and Adama Traore (thigh) on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi remain on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations. But Fode Ballo-Toure is back available after Senegal bowed out of the continental competition in the Round of 16.

Bernd Leno will take his spot between the sticks, with Burnley lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him. Kenny Tete, Tosin Adarabioyo, Tim Ream, and Antonee Robinson will complete the backline, with the quartet being automatic picks.

As for the midfield unit, there is no looking past Harrison Reed and Joao Palhinha in the double pivot. The duo will look to keep things tight in the middle of the park while initiating swift transitions. Finally, deadline-day arrival Armando Broja should spearhead the Fulham attack against Burnley, with Willian, Bobby De Cordova-Reid, and Andreas Pereira completing the numbers in the offensive department.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Adarabioyo, Ream, Robinson; Reed, Palhinha; Decordova-Reid, Pereira, Willian; Broja

Key Stats

    Burnley are unbeaten in 28 home league games against Fulham since losing 2-0 at Turf Moor in April 1951 (W22 D6). That is the longest undefeated run against an opponent at home in the Clarets' league history.
    Burnley have the worst home record in this season's Premier League, losing nine of their 11 matches and taking just four points.
    Fulham won 5-0 in back-to-back games in early December but have earned just one victory in their subsequent six league fixtures, failing to score five times. The Cottagers have not scored in ten Premier League matches this season, more than any other side.
    Burnley have scored a Premier League-high 32% of their goals from outside the penalty area this season (seven of 22). But their tally of 15 goals from inside the box is the lowest in the division.
    Fulham have lost six of their last eight top-flight away games against promoted sides, with their only win in this sequence coming at Nottingham Forest last season.

Player to Watch
Armando Broja
The wait is finally over, and Armando Broja has completed his loan move to Fulham. The Albanian international was eagerly waiting for a transfer to resurrect his stuttering career, and he got that on Deadline Day of the winter transfer window.

The 22-year-old will now be eager to deliver the goods week after week, as he had done during his successful loan stint with Southampton. If he manages to hit the ground running, he can guide Fulham to a top-half finish while drastically improving his fortunes.

Prediction
Burnley 1-1 Fulham
Fulham's record at Turf Moor is abysmal, and the visitors' recent form does not boost their prospects. That said, Burnley's recent run has been dreadful, while the Clarets have a shoddy record at Turf Moor.

So, Sunday's match should be close, considering both teams are struggling heading into Saturday's contest. In the end, there might not be much to separate Burnley and Fulham, with The Hard Tackle predicting a 1-1 draw.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2024/02/02/burnley-vs-fulham-preview-and-prediction/

[WhiteJC]

Nigeria into AFCON semi-finals
Former Fulham forward Ademola Lookman scored the winning goal as Nigeria moved into the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations by beating Angola 1-0 in Abijan.

Calvin Bassey kept another clean sheet but headed a glorious chance over early in the second half, whilst Alex Iwobi dictated play in another promising performance. The Super Eagles, chasing a fourth African title, will play either South Africa or Cape Verde in the last four.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/nigeria-into-afcon-semi-finals/

[WhiteJC]

Bond is our referee for the Fulham game
Tomorrow afternoon's home game against Fulham will be refereed by Lancashire official Darren Bond and it will be his first Burnley game this season.

Prior to last season kicking off, he'd only ever refereed us once, the League Cup tie against Leeds in 2017, but he took charge of four of our games last season, the home games against Luton and Preston and the away fixtures at Sheffield United and Middlesbrough, that game at Middlesbrough, on the night we clinched promotion, being his most recent Burnley game.

His performances in those five games see him currently in ninth place in RATE THE REF with a rating of 63.21 out of 100.

Last season, he was called up to referee in the Premier League for the first time. By the time the season ended he'd refereed four times in the top flight so his elevation to the Select Group came as no surprise last summer.

Since, he's had just one Premier League game and that was Brentford's 3-0 win at Fulham back in August when he sent off Fulham's Tim Ream. A week later he took charge of a Championship game but then went almost a month without a game. Two games came his way in September but it was December before he refereed again, presumably because of injury.

Four games in December and five in January suggest everything is now fine and tomorrow he finally steps back into the Premier League for his fifteenth game of the season. Of the fourteen to date, eight have come in the Championship, one in the League Cup and three in the FA Cup to add to the one Premier League game.

In those fourteen games there have been 64 yellow and two red cards. Of the yellows, twenty have gone to home team players and 44 to away team players. The one player he's sent off since Ream was Hull's Tyler Morton in their 3-1 loss at Sheffield Wednesday. That one was a shocking decision that was overturned on appeal.

His most recent game was at Hillsborough too, last Friday for Wednesday's 1-1 home draw against Coventry. Di'Shon Bernard and Akin Famewo were the two Wednesday players to receive yellow cards alongside all of Coventry's Liam Kitching, Jay Dasilva and Kasey Palmer.

Fourth official is Andy Davies whose only Burnley game was the League Cup win at Millwall back in September 2020. John Brooks is on VAT duty; he's refereed us twice, most recently in last season's FA Cup defeat at Manchester City.
Match Officials

Referee: Darren Bond
Assistant Referees: Marc Perry & Steven Meredith
Fourth Official: Andy Davies
VAR: John Brooks
Assistant VAR: Lee Brooks

Previous Burnley Games – Darren Bond



https://www.uptheclarets.com/bond-is-our-referee-for-the-fulham-game

[WhiteJC]

Back home and searching for much needed points
The draw in our last home game against Luton Town three weeks ago has left us with only two more opportunities to complete a double over another club this season and one of those is Fulham, our visitors tomorrow.

We won 2-0 at Craven Cottage on the Saturday before Christmas with goals from Wilson Odobert and Sander Berge and, given the opposition and their Turf Moor record, it would usually be a game that we would potentially expect to win, or at least not lose.

There is no team I've seen us beat more often at home in the years I've been going on the Turf. It's twenty victories against them in the league with three more to add in the cups. There have only been three draws to add to that but way back in April 1951, approaching a year before I was born, Fulham beat us 2-0 here with two goals scored by Bob Thomas, the last time they picked up a Turf Moor victory.

I suppose it's not often they have visited us with a much better side but they certainly did in the 1997/98 Chris Waddle season and then a year later when Stan Ternent had taken charge, but we still beat them.

That record will give them no confidence but our home record this season very definitely will. In the eleven games thus far at home in the league, the opposition have nine times gone away with all three points. Only Sheffield United, who we hammered 5-0, and Luton, who got away with a point following a ridiculous goal award right at the end, have not beaten us.

I think we all know we are in a very difficult position with 12 points from our 22 games to date. The closest we've had to that in previous Premier League seasons have been 20 in both 2009/10 and 2014/15 and 17 in 2021/22, the three previous relegation seasons.

It's looking as though it is now beyond a tall order so all we can do is hope that we can start picking up some wins while those just above us continue to drop points on a regular basis.

There will be changes from the match day squad we had out at Manchester City this week. Two of the substitutes, Connor Roberts and Anass Zaroury, both of whom came on as substitutes, are no longer with us for the remainder of the season having joined Leeds and Hull respectively on loan.

They were the only two players to make temporary moves out from our first team squad, other than CJ Egan-Riley, who was surprisingly on the bench for the Luton game, and we have added to our squad since the trip to the Etihad with the loan signings of French defenders Maxime Estève and Lorenz Assignon from Montpellier and Rennes respectively.

Jordan Beyer, Charlie Taylor and Hannes Delcroix all remained out at City but manager Vincent Kompany suggested that one of them could be fit to resume although didn't give any clues as to which of the three.

A reminder that we lined up at City: James Trafford, Vitinho, Dara O'Shea, Hjalmar Ekdal, Ameen Al-Dakhil, Jóhann Berg Guðmundsson, Sander Berge, Josh Brownhill, Wilson Odobert, Zeki Amdouni, Lyle Foster. Subs: Arijanet Muric, Connor Roberts, Jack Cork, Josh Cullen, Han-Noah Massengo, Jacob Bruun Larsen, Aaron Ramsey, Anass Zaroury, David Datro Fofana.

Our visitors Fulham are currently thirteenth in the league with 25 points from their 22 games. They would be considerably higher if the league was based on home form; they have won all but six of their points at Craven Cottage.

Away from home it's very much a different story and only Sheffield United have won less points on the road. Their solitary away win came at Everton on the opening weekend of the season and they've since secured draws at Arsenal, Crystal Palace and Brighton. The last of those points was won at Brighton in October and they've since lost all five of their away games at Aston Villa, Liverpool, Newcastle, Bournemouth and Chelsea.

Back in December, they recorded successive 5-0 victories in home games against Nottingham Forest and West Ham, but the goals have dried up in the six games since. They've failed to score in five of them with the surprise 2-1 win against Arsenal three weeks ago the only time they have scored in that run.

They have, though, scored 28 Premier League goals this season which have been shared across twelve players. Raúl Jiménez leads the way with five, followed by both Bobby De Cordova-Reid and Willian who have both scored four times.

Jiménez is out of tomorrow's game having suffered an injury in their 0-0 draw against Everton against Tuesday. He could be out for a while but they moved quickly yesterday to bring in Chelsea's Armando Broja on loan.

They will also be without Issa Diop, Harry Wilson and Adama Traoré while Carlos Vinicius, who was in the squad on Wednesday, has now joined Galatasary on loan. They do have Fodé Ballo-Touré back in the squad having returned from the African Cup of Nations.

Their team against Everton was: Bernd Leno, Timothy Castagne, Tosin Adarabioyo, Issa Diop, Antonee Robinson, João Palhinha, Tom Cairney, Bobby De Cordova-Reid, Andreas Pereira, Willian, Raúl Jiménez. Subs: Marek Rodák, Kenny Tete, Harrison Reed, Tim Ream, Rodrigo Muniz, Saša Lukić, Carlos Vinicius, Tyrese Francois, Kristian Šekularac.

LAST TIME THEY WERE HERE
It's just over five years since we were last able to attend a Burnley v Fulham game at home. On that occasion we fell behind to an Andre Schürrle goal in the second minute but recovered to win 2-1 with both goals coming in the first quarter of the game from Jeff Hendrick and a Denis Odoi own goal.

They've been here once since in the behind closed doors season of 2020/21 and on this occasion it was two goals early in the second half that saw the game end in a 1-1 draw.

Just four minutes into the second half we found ourselves behind. It came from a corner that was flicked on by Joachim Andersen. It bounced off Ola Aina's chest and from there found its way into the net.

Thankfully, their lead didn't last long, less than three minutes to be exact. Robbie Brady and Ashley Westwood combined to push a ball forward down the right for Jay Rodriguez who played in Ashley Barnes who seemed to take a heavy first touch with his right foot but then fired home with his left.

We kept the score at that with few concerns but with so many injuries, we really were running out of players as can be seen from the bench we were able to put out. The point kept us in fifteenth place.

The teams were;

Burnley: Nick Pope, Matt Lowton, Kevin Long, James Tarkowski, Charlie Taylor, Jóhann Berg Guðmundsson (Robbie Brady 39, Josh Brownhill 64), Ashley Westwood, Jack Cork, Dwight McNeil, Ashley Barnes, Jay Rodriguez. Subs not used: Bailey Peacock-Farrell, Will Norris, Phil Bardsley, Jimmy Dunne, Anthony Glennon, Josh Benson, Joel Mumbongo.

Fulham: Alphonse Areola, Kenny Tete (Antonee Robinson 78), Joachim Andersen, Tosin Adarabioyo, Ola Aina, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Harrison Reed, Mario Lemina (André-Frank Zambo Anguissa 61), Ademola Lookman, Bobby De Cordova-Reid (Ivan Cavaleiro 67), Josh Maja. Subs not used: Marek Rodák, Michael Hector, Denis Odoi, Tim Ream, Josh Onomah, Terence Kongolo.



https://www.uptheclarets.com/back-home-and-searching-for-much-needed-points

[WhiteJC]

Vincent Kompany makes unwavering claim about Burnley's survival chances ahead of must-win Fulham clash
Vincent Kompany maintains an unwavering belief that Burnley can avoid relegation, regardless of what history might tell him.

Prior to the Man City defeat in midweek, a statistic did the rounds that only one side in Premier League history had survived with the same number of points as the Clarets at this stage of the season.

Sitting on just 12 points and seven adrift of safety, the picture certainly doesn't look good for Kompany's men ahead of today's must-win clash against Fulham.

But the Clarets boss still has that belief his side can maintain their top flight status.

"That's one more team than I would have thought," he said. "But it wouldn't even matter had no-one done it before, it wouldn't change any belief or motivation in me to do it.

"It's a similar belief to what I had as a player. We're in a position where a couple of wins can make a massive difference, whereas when you're at the top like we were last year one defeat can make a massive difference.

"As long as you can manage your own energy and channel it, then it's similar in terms of pressure [to being at the top].

"Every win is just as significant. It's more the impact of a defeat. When you're competing with teams that rarely drop points, a couple of losses and you're done.

"For us we can look at the impact of defeat and what it does to a group, but if you look at the opportunity of winning, that's also something to carry forward. The opportunity to put a run together and what that could do for the club, what it could do for the league table.

"We live for those opportunities, that's all we're focused on. It will give us a chance, that's what we're working on."

Kompany added: "I always believe we can do it. That's literally the biggest part of my job. It's to transmit that belief.

"I do enjoy working with this group. I suffer like they suffer when we lose, but at the end I always wake up with the feeling of 'I want to get more'. It's something that lives within the players and has been part of the culture as well.

"Okay you can't just be there for the good times. When you have bad times we stick together and we go hard. We keep going."



https://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/vincent-kompany-makes-unwavering-claim-about-burnleys-survival-chances-ahead-of-must-win-fulham-clash-4502410

[WhiteJC]

Up next: Burnley (a)
You'd think that Marco Silva will be pleased to see the back of January. He joked with Sky Sports Gary Cotterill during his media duties on Thursday that he wasn't loving transfer deadline day – when the Whites only managed to bring in Armando Broja after protracted negotiations with Chelsea – whilst Fulham's form over the past month yielded three goals in seven games, a win, a draw and an exit from both domestic Cups. A pulsating goalless draw against Everton in midweek proved particularly frustrating, especially as Raul Jimenez and Issa Diop suffered hamstring strains, and Fulham's promising position in the new year – closer to mid-table and a possible trip to Wembley – has given way to worries about the bottom three.

Turf Moor is hardly a hunting ground for Fulham, either. Burnley are unbeaten in 28 home league matches against the Whites – a remarkable run stretching back to 1951 – and Vincent Kompany's side could complete a double over the Cottagers for the first time since 1981 after their impressive win at Craven Cottage before Christmas. The Clarets will require something special to stay up from here, seven points behind an improving Luton Town (who scored a controversial late leveller at Turf Moor last time out) with the Hatters having a game in hand, and Kompany will be desperate for his side to improve their woeful home record – taking only four points from eleven matches to date – as soon as possible.

Kompany, whose side have largely stayed true to his adventurous approach, went toe-to-toe with his former club Manchester City in midweek and earned plaudits rather than points in a gallant 3-1 defeat against the champions. He could call upon new loan signings Maxime Esteve and Lorenz Assignon, who have been brought in to bolster a dangerous defence, and reported no new injury concerns during Friday's press conference, suggesting that Hannes Delcroix, Jordan Beyer and Charlie Taylor – who all missed the trip to Manchester – might be able to return subject to late fitness assessments. Combative midfielder Josh Brownhill is in line to make his hundredth top flight appearance, whilst the home side's major goal threat will come from joint top-scorers Zeki Amdouni and Lyle Foster.

Silva should refresh Fulham's forward line by handing Broja, a physical striker with the sort of hold-up play that the Whites have missed since the departure of Aleksandar Mitrovic, a debut. There have to some concerns about the recent form of Andreas Pereira, who particularly struggled to hit the target against Everton, although after Kompany overhauled Burnley's direct style, the Brazilian might find more run to play between the lines this afternoon. Silva has been loathe to leave out the former Manchester United attacking midfielder, although the Whites' eagerness to dictate proceedings could be helped by including the guile of Tom Cairney just in front of the bustling Harrison Reed alongside Joao Palhinha. There will be no rest for the wicked with Willian and Bobby De Cordova-Reid – combined aged 66 – Fulham's only fit senior wide players as Harry Wilson continues to recuperate from the shoulder injury suffered against Newcastle United.

Fulham's away form, which has not delivered a Premier League away win since De Cordova-Reid's opening weekend winner at Goodison Park, will need to pick up in the second half of the season. The Whites are not yet safe, with Luton continuing to pick up points, and a curse-busting success in Lancashire would be a significant boost for Silva's side. Bringing back three points from Turf Moor will be much easier said than done, however.

MY FULHAM XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Adarabioyo, Ream; Palhinha, Reed; De Cordova-Reid, Willian, Cairney; Broja. Subs: Rodak, Castagne, Ballo-Toure, de Fougerolles, Lukic, Dibley-Dias, Pajaziti, Sekularac, Muniz.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/up-next-burnley-a-2/

[WhiteJC]

Why Chelsea will be hoping they don't get £750k loan fee for academy striker
Armando Broja has completed his loan to Fulham. The deal wasn't confirmed until after midnight, but earlier in the evening Jacob Steinberg had some details about the setup of the deal.

We had heard that Chelsea wanted a £5m loan fee, but instead they've incentivised Fulham to use the on loan striker. The Whites will cover his wages, but won't pay a fee, so long as Broja appears in half of their remaining games.

The loan fee itself is just £750k, far lower than was asked for, but including his salary, Steinberg points out the total is £4m. Chelsea are clearly hoping that Broja plays, scores lots of goals, boots his value and can then depart in the summer. Strangely, it creates a situation where they don't want the £750k loan fee as a sort of consolation prize if Broja can't get into the team for whatever reason.

They've got a decent side and Broja just needs some time on the pitch – we think this move could work out well.



https://www.chelsea-news.co/2024/02/why-chelsea-will-be-hoping-they-dont-get-750k-loan-fee-for-academy-striker/

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea discussed the possibility of swapping Armando Broja with Jhon Duran, but Aston Villa striker's injury scuppered deal

Chelsea ended the January transfer window without signing any player but were willing to let Armando Broja join Fulham on loan until the end of the current campaign.

However, the Blues wanted to sign another striker and were linked with interest in Aston Villa's Jhon Duran.

According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea discussed a swap deal which would have seen Broja move to Villa Park and Duran join them.

However, the injury the Colombian sustained thwarted the deal, and the Blues opted to go ahead without landing a striker despite letting their academy graduate leave.

"There was a possibility for a swap deal," Romano revealed on the latest edition of The Here We Go Podcast.

"Armando Broja to Aston Villa, Jhon Duran to Chelsea. It was just discussed internally. So it was never close. It was never a proper negotiation.

"But it was discussed internally at both clubs as a possibility. Then the injury of Jhon Duran made everything impossible. So they decided not to proceed. But they were considering the possibility because basically, they wanted Armando Broja to go and play on loan. But also to Aston Villa as they did with Fulham when they closed the deal, they wanted an important loan fee for Armando Broja, and Aston Villa couldn't guarantee that because they already have a top striker like Ollie Watkins.

"So, basically what happened is that Chelsea decided to leave the early conversations, but it wasn't an advanced and concrete negotiation because they were happy to let Armando Broja leave on loan and continue with the current squad."

The return of Christopher Nkunku from injury made the Blues decide that the Albanian international could leave, and they also have Nicolas Jackson available following the end of Senegal's AFCON campaign.

They also decided against activating Victor Osimhen's £110 million release clause in January, but the Nigeria international is likely to be among Chelsea's top targets in the summer, when the club may find his release clause more palatable if they can earn money on sales.

Landing a striker remains top of their plans, but Financial Fair Play issues prevented them from going after the Napoli star last month, and they will be desperate to make sure things improve as they look to balance the books in the coming months.




https://sports-view.co.uk/2024/02/chelsea-discussed-the-possibility-of-swapping-armando-broja-with-jhon-duran-but-aston-villa-strikers-injury-scuppered-deal