Thursday Fulham Stuff - 15/02/24...

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Northampton beaten by odd goal in seven in eventful game at Leyton Orient
A 97th minute goal saw Northampton Town beaten 4-3 at Leyton Orient on an eventful night in East London.

Northampton had equalised three times after falling behind at Brisbane Road, in a game that saw Marc Leonard, Kieron Bowie and Tyreese Simpson all strike, but had no ultimate answer when substitute Ruel Sotiriou struck at the end of the end of the game to decide the contest in favour of the hosts.

Defeat sees Northampton drop to 12th position in the League One table. Jon Brady's Cobblers sit 14 points behind the play-offs and 10 points ahead of the relegation zone.

Few chances were created in the opening half-hour of play in East London, but a breakthrough came just after the half-hour. A short corner was laid off for Ollie O'Neill, whose drilled ball into the box missed everyone and found the bottom corner to give the home side the lead.

But Northampton equalised in first-half stoppage time, as Leonard received Will Hondermarck's pass, advanced and drilled a low strike from outside the box into the goal to bring the visitors level.

Northampton had a chance take the lead that they couldn't take after a scramble, and they fell behind just before the hour. Louie Moulden in the Cobblers goal made an initial save to thwart Rob Hunt but Shaq Forde was there to turn in the rebound.

Moulden was called into action again to deny Idris El-Mizouni and that proved helpful for the away side, who would equalise with 13 minutes to go. Mitch Pinnock laid the ball off from a cross into the box and it fell kindly for Bowie to thump the ball in for 2-2.

But just three minutes later, there was another twist as the hosts went back in front. Sotiriou got to the front post to glance in O'Neill's corner and restored the home side's lead.

That, however, would only be for three minutes as Northampton scored the game's third goal in six minutes. Simpson would win the ball back in the box, hold off his man, turn and hit a firm strike into the back of the net.

A manic conclusion saw Hunt hit the bar and Sotiriou miss the target while Pinnock slipped when in a prime position to shoot.

The decisive moment came in added time at the end of the six added minutes, as Northampton failed to fully clear a corner and the ball eventually fell for Brandon Cooper, who teed up Sotiriou and who duly found the back of the net.

The late heartache leaves Northampton without a win in four games, and they will seek a change of fortune when they host Bristol Rovers on Saturday.



https://citiblog.co.uk/2024/02/14/northampton-beaten-by-odd-goal-in-seven-in-eventful-game-at-leyton-orient/

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Fulham ready to frustrate competition for useful €6m signing – Player 'considered best' in league in one aspect
Fulham have joined the chase for Werder Bremen goalkeeper Michael Zetterer, according to a report.

The 28-year-old initially started the season on the bench, before cementing a place since October. He's kept four clean sheets and conceded 17 goals from 14 games so far and his performances seem to have caught the attention of Fulham and other clubs.

That's according to Calciomercato.it, who mention Marco Silva's side in a report that focuses on AS Roma's interest in the stopper.

The Serie A side are looking for a goalkeeper and Zetterer is the new name added to their list. Focusing on his qualities, the website says the Werder Bremen player is 'considered the best' in Germany for his footwork.

Zetterer has less than 18 months left on his contract and the report states he's valued at €6m.

Unfortunately for them, the Giallorossi have to deal with a lot of competition, 'in particular' from Fulham, Stade Rennais and Galatasaray, to sign the German.

Bernd Leno is the first-choice goalkeeper at Fulham, with Marek Rodak providing cover, but the latter's deal lasts until the end of this season, with an option for another year.

Therefore, Fulham could consider signing Zetterer if they decide to let Rodak leave as a free agent in the summer.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-ready-frustrate-competition-useful-e6m-signing-player-considered-best-league-one-aspect/

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Diaby starts, McGinn call - Aston Villa starting XI vs Fulham predicted after huge injury blow
Aston Villa news from BirminghamLive as Unai Emery prepares his side to take on Fulham this weekend

Aston Villa travel to Craven Cottage this weekend looking to return to winning ways against Fulham.

Unai Emery's side lost 2-1 to Manchester United on Sunday and have dropped out of the top four having returning to the Champions League positions just a week before with an emphatic 5-0 win over Sheffield United. Villa have lost their last three home games in all competitions, but have won two of their last four on the road.

The injury suffered by Boubacar Kamara is a huge blow for Villa, who will be missing the midfielder for the rest of the season. Meanwhile, Ezri Konsa is also sidelined for at least another four weeks due to a knee sprain.

Here's how Villa could line-up against Fulham on Saturday (kick-off 3pm)...

Emi Martinez
Martinez is after his seventh Premier League clean sheet of the season this weekend.

Matty Cash
Cash is set to continue at right-back and make his 18th league start of the season.

Diego Carlos
Carlos is set to continue in defence.

Pau Torres
Torres could make his first start for nine weeks having returned to the squad in the defeat to Chelsea last week. He hasn't made an appearance since the 3-2 win over Burnley at the end of December.

Alex Moreno
Moreno could continue at left-back after his impressive display against United. Lucas Digne returned to the squad last weekend and will compete for a start on Saturday.

Douglas Luiz
Luiz is one of the first names on the Villa teamsheet and will make his 24th league start as Emery's side go in search of a win at Craven Cottage.

John McGinn
McGinn could perform alongside Luiz as Kamara's replacement. The Scot is more effective in an advanced role behind Ollie Watkins, but his physicality is needed in the double pivot.

Leon Bailey
Bailey will be looking to celebrate his new contract with a goal or two at Fulham.

Jacob Ramsey
Ramsey put in his best performance of the season last time out and will likely continue on the left this weekend.

Moussa Diaby
Diaby could return to the squad if McGinn drops deeper in the double pivot. Alternatively, Tielemans could operate on the right and Ramsey on the left, but Diaby and Bailey can combine effectively in the final third.

Ollie Watkins
Watkins will be looking to add to his 11-goal league tally.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/gallery/diaby-starts-mcginn-call-aston-28624315

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Aston Villa injury news: Doctor shares Pau Torres update ahead of Fulham clash
Aston Villa defender Pau Torres is ready to start the Premier League clash against Fulham, according to Dr Rajpal Brar.

Unai Emery's side travel to Craven Cottage to take on the London outfit on Saturday, 17 February, in the Premier League.

The Spain international is yet to play a professional game for Villa this year despite returning from injury in January.

Speaking about this situation, Dr Brar, a doctor in physical therapy and a sports scientist, told Villa News: "He had an ankle injury which was most likely something ligament related.

"He was an unused substitute during the team's FA Cup loss and also during their recent Premier League defeat but it's still a good sign for his recovery.

"With ankle injuries and centre-backs, there's still a lot of lateral and multi-direction movement so there are similar recovery times compared to other positions.

"He should be ready to start games and whether or not he plays the 90 minutes depends on where he is with his recovery."

Much-needed boost for Aston Villa
Villa are already missing Boubacar Kamara who'll be out for the season and potentially not be back to a 100 per cent for 18 months.

The last thing Emery will want is for another one of his first-team regulars to be ruled out of action.

Torres has been a regular for the Villans this season but Clement Lenglet has been starting ahead of him in recent games.



https://www.astonvillanews.co.uk/2024/02/14/aston-villa-injury-news-doctor-shares-pau-torres-update-ahead-of-fulham-clash/

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Loan Round-Up: Bowie Nets For Northampton

Kieron Bowie netted for Northampton in a thrilling League One match at Leyton Orient.

The forward's driven second-half strike - his eighth goal in his last 15 games - found the bottom corner to make the score 2-2.

In the topsy-turvy encounter, the Cobblers eventually ended on the wrong end of a 4-3 scoreline.

In League Two, Luca Ashby-Hammond made his Notts County debut in the 3-1 win at Newport.

The goalkeeper was desperately close to completing a clean sheet, but conceded from a penalty in the 90th minute.

However, the result - the first victory for new Magpies manager Stuart Maynard - pushes them into the play-off positions.

Jay Stansfield came up against his former boss John Eustace, completing the full 90 in Birmingham's 1-0 win over Blackburn in the Championship.

Luke Harris played 85 minutes for Exeter, but the in-form Grecians were comfortably beaten by League One promotion hopefuls Derby.

Elsewhere in the third tier, Martial Godo played the full match as Wigan were beaten 4-2 on the road by Oxford.

Olly Sanderson's Sutton ran Wrexham close in League Two, but succumbed to a late 2-1 defeat.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/february/14/loan-round-up-bowie-nets-for-northampton/

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Why is Bobby De Cordova-Reid still underrated?

As we approach the final third of another Premier League campaign, the Cottagers look set for another year in the top flight. They need a few more wins, sure, but we're nearly there. At many stages alarm bells began to ring and the Fulham faithful felt as if the team lacked so many things. However, despite some low moments, the team has produced some memorable highs, in a year when safety, for many supporters, is likely to be more than enough.

So far, the goal-scoring mantle has fallen to whoever was willing to grab it. There's one player who stands out as someone who quietly and confidently steps up every time. Bobby De Cordova-Reid (BDR) has done very little wrong in a Fulham shirt, and this season is one course to be his most successful yet. He's a true professional. He is technically gifted. He is Fulham's current top goal scorer. All those traits make me wonder why the Jamaican international still so criminally underrated.

Forever Mr. Versatile

When things aren't going right at Fulham – and even when things are going well – we can rely on BDR to stay calm and do the business. Whether it's putting in a man-of-the-match display playing right-back against Liverpool three years ago, or providing the winning goal against Arsenal in the statement win of this campaign, he's always applying himself to the situation and always fully grasping what that situation requires of him. As the social media phrase goes, he understands the assignment.

I've no doubt that BDR, despite his height, would put on goalkeeping gloves and do a half-decent job retaining a clean sheet for 15 minutes at the end of a game. He really is that adaptable. A lot of people forget that Steven Gerrard played almost every position for Liverpool by the time he was in his 30s. BDR is that guy for Fulham, albeit not home grown. In front of goal this season Bobby has comparable stats with Marcus Rashford. Both have 30% shot accuracy and five goals. And yet, Marcus Rashford can't be asked to play right-back for 10 minutes, let alone a full 90. He brings that level of versatility to the squad, who can then trust him to respect the demands of a new position. Other players just can't play in this way.

Traditionally, these sorts of utility players suffer as a result of their versatility – managers often can't decide where to use them. They're seen as a jack of all trades, yet a master of none. Bobby's played 172 times for Fulham, thanks to the fact that although he can play across the pitch, he excels on the that right-hand side of a front three, as his 27 goals attest.

Quality contributions

Rodrigo Muniz will grab the headlines after the win at Bournemouth this weekend, and rightly so, but make no mistake: BDR is also capable of controlling and changing games. Last term, three of his four goals gave Fulham the lead. He steps up when the team need to score, simple and vital. World class strikers who scored a lot of goals, were regularly criticised for not scoring important goals. Each of Bobby's goals scored in this season, again, have given us the lead. Every goal that Bobby has scored this season, bar the game against Liverpool, has meant that Fulham have gone on to victory. Define important.

His goal against Bournemouth epitomises this best. When the other team make an error in early stages of the game, his calmness to put the chance away settles the nerves of teammates and fans alike. We all turn and look at each other nodding, "oh yes, how could we forget, he's quality". He makes it look easy. A truly great attribute.

His goal against Sheffield United, in a win that was similar this weekend's victory against Bournemouth, was equally as assured. He doesn't look like missing in situations when he should score. He can miss the hard chances, the half chances, but he doesn't miss the gilt-edged opportunities. So often, it is those chances that can define the course of a season.

Professionalism personified

BDR has captained the side once this term – the 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Emirates. And it was very professional display for those who remember. Tim Ream and Tom Cairney have been the most loyal of servants, but BDR is also right up there in terms of leadership capability. He sets an example with his determination and workrate. People forget the fact that he too has been up and down with Fulham. Going through that footballing rollercoaster isn't easy, and his commitment won't go unnoticed to the club's hierarchy, who are in talks over his contract extension. His current deal is set to expire this summer.

We should also pay attention to his contributions with the background staff and the Fulham Foundation, as he regularly makes the effort to visit the schools in the community. Gary Lineker also recently praised BDR for another off-the-pitch moment. He sat next to Bobby who was with his wife and child on a long-haul flight to LA. Gary had feared for the eight or so hours that were ahead of him. A young child is a not always a great flight companion. However, Gary said he needn't have worried because Bobby's young baby was so well behaved. You just know that professionalism is coming through in his role as a parent too.

It's arguable that his professional attitude hasn't quite enamoured him deep into the Fulham favourite category. After all, football is known for its mavericks and big characters. Comparatively, Bobby is a more reserved and focused individual. With a sister as who is an MP and a mum who raised him as a single parent, it might come as no surprise. But maybe this season, if all goes well, Fulham will look back and remember not all heroes wear capes; and that it is often the unsung who keep us all singing.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-02-14-why-is-bobby-de-cordova-reid-still-underrated/

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"I have to continue here" – Barnsley player quizzed about Everton and Fulham interest, has set goal in mind
Barnsley youngster Fabio Jaló is today featured in an interview with Portuguese newspaper A Bola.

Saying the 18-year-old is the jewel of the club's crown, the outlet highlights his potential and makes it clear he has a bright future ahead.

That's why they mentioned the recent rumours which linked Jaló to Everton and Fulham, although he shows he's committed to Barnsley.

"Yes, I've heard a lot of things, offers have been made, but here Barsnely gives me a lot of opportunities, it's my first club in England, they've helped me a lot, I've been here since I was 13/14 and so I think I have to continue here and progress."

The winger clearly tries to keep his feet on the ground, especially when asked whether he feels like a 'diamond' at the club.

"Many fans call me a diamond, but I don't pay much attention to that, I'm focussed on my work and what I have to do."

With Transfermarkt valuing him a €150k, which sounds like a very low price for Everton and Fulham, Jaló believes he could be worth more.

"I think even higher [laughs]. I have to keep working and achieve my goals."

What Everton and Fulham should be aware of is that Jaló sees a comeback to Portugal as a goal for his future. His priority would be to return to Benfica, and even a move to their Lisbon rivals Sporting isn't out of the table.

"Yes, returning to Portugal to play for Benfica is a dream and a goal. You never know, in the world of football anything can happen, but Benfica is my priority."

Playing for Barnsley's first team, Jaló has three goals and one assist in 24 appearances. He's protected by the club with a contract until 2027, which includes an option for an extra year.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/i-continue-barnsley-player-quizzed-everton-fulham-interest-set-goal-mind/

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Unai Emery now has perfect chance to fix one Aston Villa issue ahead of Fulham clash
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has the opportunity to fix his jaded defence ahead of the Premier League clash with Fulham, as Pau Torres prepares to re-enter the starting XI.

Aston Villa will be hoping to put the horrors of last week behind them, as Unai Emery prepares his side for battle with Fulham on Saturday afternoon in the Premier League.

For the first time in a while, the Villans will be eager to get away from Villa Park, after losing three consecutive games at home, two of which came last week through crashing out of the FA Cup and then losing to Manchester United.

On top of the dip in form, the Midlands club were dealt more bad news with Boubacar Kamara suffering a season-ending ACL injury to force the manager to test the adaptability of his squad.

Luckily, there is some positive news for the boss with Pau Torres set to be in contention to start against Fulham this weekend after recovering from injury.

Aston Villa will be strengthened by the return of Pau Torres
The Spaniard is yet to feature in 2024 for the Villans after suffering an ankle injury which has seen him away from the action for eight weeks.

Despite returning to training last week, the 27-year-old has been an unused substitute for the previous two games, both of which ended in defeat for his side.

Arriving from Villarreal in the summer, Emery was keen to get a deal for the centre-back over the line after coaching the player at the La Liga side.

The boss' verdict on the towering centre-back has proved to be right so far, with his performances dubbed "magnificent" this season by Pat Nevin via the Football Daily Podcast.

Who Pau Torres will most likely replace
The pairing of Diego Carlos and Clement Lenglet has worked in the absence of Torres to a degree, although the defensive standards have seemed to drop in recent weeks.

Villa have conceded eight goals in their previous three fixtures, just two goals less than what they conceded in all competitions throughout the entirety of December when Pau was in the side.

The return of the centre-back will welcome some additional stability and composure on the ball, with Lenglet likely to lose his place to resume the partnership of Pau and Carlos.

The pairing of the Brazilian and the Spaniard seemed to work prior to the 27-year-old's injury, leaving the Barcelona loanee likely to fall down the pecking order once more in a switch that will undoubtedly strengthen the Villans' back line.



https://www.astonvilla.news/analysis/unai-emery-now-has-perfect-chance-to-fix-one-aston-villa-issue-ahead-of-fulham-clash/

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Nigeria: NFF Decries Online Attacks On Iwobi
The Nigeria Football Federation has condemned in its entirety the cyber attacks on Super Eagles' midfielder Alex Iwobi, saying the virulent attacks on the player are uncalled-for given his commitment and dedication to duty for homeland over the years.

"Alex Iwobi does not deserve these attacks. He has a record of utmost dedication to duty and a remarkable attitude of giving his all on international duty. We cannot suddenly forget the great moments he has made on duty for Nigeria, like scoring that goal against Zambia in Uyo that qualified Nigeria to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

"We are talking about someone who is actually the seventh most-capped Nigerian footballer in history. With 76 caps, Alex Iwobi has nothing to prove to anyone about his patriotic fervour and dedication to duty for Nigeria. Please let us show him love and not hatred," NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire appealed on Tuesday.

Iwobi is behind only Ahmed Musa, Vincent Enyeama, Joseph Yobo, John Mikel Obi, Nwankwo Kanu and Mudashiru Babatunde Lawal (of blessed memory) in the record of most caps for Nigeria, and has travelled to different countries and continents to defend the green-white-green for about eight years now.

He has featured for Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup finals in Russia in 2018 and the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019 (Egypt), 2021 (Cameroon) and Cõte d'Ivoire (2023).



https://allafrica.com/stories/202402140315.html

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Fulham in transfer tussle to sign Michael Zetterer

Fulham will reportedly look to sign 28-year-old German goalkeeper Michael Zetterer from Bundesliga club Werder Bremen this summer.
According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Michael Zetterer is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are in the market for a goalkeeper heading into the summer transfer window. And they will compete with several Serie A clubs for the signature of the 28-year-old Werder Bremen goalkeeper.

Who is Michael Zetterer?
Michael Zetterer is a native of Munich and spent his formative years in his hometown. He graduated from the SpVgg Unterhaching youth division before joining Werder Bremen in January 2015. The 28-year-old has now begun his tenth year with the Bundesliga club.

But the German shot-stopper has had to bide his time at Werder Bremen and has only started gaining prominence this season. Instead, he sought regular game time elsewhere in the last few years. Zetterer has turned out 14 times thus far in the Bundesliga this season, keeping four clean sheets and conceding 17 goals.

Zetterer's progress this season has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs. The report by Calciomercato has revealed that Serie A outfits are keen on signing the shot-stopper. But Fulham will also compete with those sides heading into the summer transfer window.

Fulham Interested in Michael Zetterer
Fulham's interest in Michael Zetterer is surprising. Bernd Leno has been an exceptional performer since joining the West London club from Arsenal over 18 months ago. He has been one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League during this period and has gained prominence at Craven Cottage.

So, Zetterer will unlikely have a chance to usurp Leno as the first-choice goalkeeper at Fulham. But it seems the West London club will replace Marek Rodak with the 28-year-old German shot-stopper in the summer transfer window. But AS Roma might be a more appealing destination for the Werder Bremen goalkeeper.

Meanwhile, it is unclear if Zetterer will want to leave his growing role at the Bundesliga club to join Fulham or AS Roma for a backup role. But for now, the 28-year-old goalkeeper has emerged as a viable target for the Cottagers ahead of the summer transfer window.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/02/14/fulham-in-transfer-tussle-to-sign-michael-zetterer/

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Cairney: Fulham 'can't get carried away'
Fulham captain Tom Cairney insists the club's first target has to be securing Premier League safety, especially considering their recent history of painful relegations from the top flight.

Speaking to the BBC's Footballer's Football Podcast, the midfielder – enjoying an excellent return to Marco Silva's starting line up of late, said:

"This is the second season out of the Championship, so we can't get carried away. I remember last season when we were seventh or sixth and people were talking about Europe and we were saying to slow down. This league can bite you if you get ahead of yourselves. If we get anywhere near the points tally of last season, which was Fulham's second-best ever season in the Premier League, then it will always be a successful season.

I've always said staying in the Premier League is the biggest thing. We can't get ahead of ourselves because we lost our top scorer [Aleksandar Mitrovic] and you can't look past that really. Staying in the league, getting as close to last season's tally and take it from there. When I say staying in the Premier League, I don't mean on the last day of the season, I mean just being an established Premier League team.

You have to look at examples like Brighton, we played them in the Championship in 2017 and they've not been down since. You would now consider Brighton an established Premier League club and we have to look at examples like that. In my lifetime, Fulham have always been a Premier League club; mid-table, nice football, always had top players like Dimitar Berbatov and Louis Saha. I don't mean Europe, I don't think our fans are that crazy and expect us to get in Europe, but I agree that fans always want more and so do we. Sustaining Premier League status is vital."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/cairney-fulham-cant-get-carried-away/

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Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey in line for Fulham return after AFCON ahead of Aston Villa clash
Midfielder received online abuse after Super Eagles lost final

Fulham say they will offer Alex Iwobi "every support" after he received online abuse following Nigeria's defeat to Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations Final.

Iwobi, who is reportedly considering retiring from international duty, has taken a break from social media and removed all of his Instagram posts after many Super Eagles fans criticised his performances at the AFCON.

His uncle, ex-Bolton attacker Jay-Jay Okocha, has offered him a message of support, as have Nigeria captain Ahmed Musa and Nigeria's minister for sports development John Enoh.

Iwobi and team-mate Calvin Bassey are due to return to Fulham training later this week and could be in contention for Saturday's home game with Aston Villa.

Fulham said they will offer Iwobi "every support", and posted a photo of Iwobi and Bassey on social media with the caption "Proud of both our boys."

Musa also took to social media, saying: "Dear fans, I want to please urge you to halt the cyber-bullying directed towards Alex Iwobi. Cyber bullying is not just a violation of decency but also a serious crime. It's hypocritical to claim that football unites us while engaging in such behaviour.

"Losing a game is undoubtedly tough, but targeting a single player for the team's shortcomings is unfair and unjust. We win as a team, and we lose as a team. Alex gave his all on the field, just like every member of our squad.

"Instead of spreading negativity, let's show genuine love and support to our players. They need our encouragement now more than ever. Let's uplift each other and stand united, both in victory and defeat."

Iwobi spoke to sports minister Enoh, who had written a letter to Musa "condemning strongly the cyber-bullying."

Enoh then told Iwobi: "As a ministry, this is not the first time we are going to make a statement against bullying [of] our sportsmen and -women.

"You did your best for your country and I am proud of you. Those who are not are in the far minority and do not speak for the rest of our country. You did your best."

Iwobi's uncle Okocha, capped 73 times by Nigeria from 1993 to 2006, wrote: "I pray for my country Nigeria and the people that can only hate and see nothing good in others, when effort counts for nothing, treat people the way you want them to treat you, all we have is this life is each other."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/iwobi-bassey-afcon-2024-fulham-b1139200.html

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Aston Villa predicted XI v Fulham: Four changes, Unai Emery drops Jacob Ramsey
Aston Villa will be looking to return to winning ways against Fulham after their 2-1 loss against Manchester United over the weekend.

Unai Emery's side travel south to the capital to take on Marco Silva's team at Craven Cottage on Saturday, 17 February.

Villa could end the weekend in the top four if they get the right result in this one and Tottenham drop points against Wolves on Saturday.

Aston Villa could make as many as four changes
Emery will be forced into making one change at the very least as Boubacar Kamara ruptured his ACL and will be out for a significant period of time.

According to a doctor, the 24-year-old will not be back to a 100 per cent for the next 18 months, handing Villa a tremendous blow.

Given his absence, Youri Tielemans will be drafted into the playing eleven and this will be his chance to prove his worth.

He had a decent outing against United when he came off the bench as he made a key pass, had an 86 per cent pass accuracy, 100 per cent dribble success rate and won three out of four of his ground duels, per Sofascore.

Clement Lenglet, who had an accuracy of just 33 per cent with his long passes, could make way for Pau Torres, who's recovered from an injury.

Lucas Digne has been Emery's go to option at left-back this season, making 19 Premier League appearances and the game against the Red Devils was his only one off the bench in 2023/24 so there's a strong possibility he returns to the playing eleven.

Jacob Ramsey's return to the Aston Villa bench may force John McGinn out wide
Ramsey started the game against United on the left wing and was relatively underwhelming, losing 80 per cent of his ground duels.

He even failed to complete a single cross and Moussa Diaby returning to the XI in a number 10 role could see McGinn moving to the left wing.

Despite playing for just 25 minutes, he made a key pass over the weekend and gave Emery's side a different dimension in attack.



https://www.astonvillanews.co.uk/2024/02/14/aston-villa-predicted-xi-v-fulham-four-changes-unai-emery-drops-jacob-ramsey/

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Chelsea open to do business with Everton and Fulham over midfielder
According to The Telegraph, Chelsea may have limited influence over the next destination of Conor Gallagher, who is linked with Everton, should his contract situation remain unresolved.

The publication reported on its website on Tuesday that Gallagher's transfer value is declining. Additionally, The Telegraph noted that Chelsea have shown interest in negotiating deals with clubs such as Everton and Fulham, rather than Tottenham and Newcastle United.

While it's undoubtedly a distant possibility, Everton might consider pursuing Chelsea star Gallagher in the upcoming summer transfer window. However, such a move appears unlikely, mainly due to the financial challenges currently facing the Goodison Park club.

Additionally, they face stiff competition from numerous Premier League clubs for the signature of the England international, all while grappling with the genuine threat of relegation.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is likely to be extremely hesitant to part ways with the midfield standout, who has been a standout performer for the Blues this season.

The 24-year-old has contributed three goals and six assists in 32 appearances across all competitions, including a brace in the 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Monday. It was a delightful homecoming for the midfield star as he returned to Selhurst Park, where he had previously excelled during a loan spell from Stamford Bridge.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/02/14/chelsea-open-to-do-business-with-everton-and-fulham-over-midfielder/

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Fulham now targeting another Bundesliga star after failing to sign Silas
Fulham are now rivalling Roma in the race to sign Werder Bremen goalkeeper Michael Zetterer ahead of the summer transfer window.

That is according to a report from calciomercao.it in Italy, who state that Roma want to sign Werder stopper Michael Zetterer this summer.

Roma are seeking a successor to Rui Patricio and are looking at Zetterer as well as Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret.

The report adds that Roma face real competition for Zetterer and that is where Fulham come into the picture.

It's stated that Fulham, Rennes and Galatasaray all fancy signing Zetterer with a price tag of just €6million (£5million) mentioned.

Fulham already have two German goalkeepers in Bernd Leno and Steven Benda, whilst Slovakian Marek Rodak is still at the club.

A move for Zetterer would surely see him come in as competition for Leno, but whether he would swap being first-choice at Werder for being a backup is unclear.

Who is Fulham target Michael Zetterer?
Zetterer hails from Munich and came up in the ranks of local club SpVgg Unterhaching.

Zetterer broke into the first-team picture and made 30 first-team appearances before leaving for Werder at the age of just 19.

The 6ft 2in stopper spent his early days with the Werder second team and was then farmed out on loan to Austria Klegenfurt and PEC Zwolle.

After featuring for a handful of games in the Werder first team in Germany's second tier during the 2021-22 season, Zetterer has really kicked on this season.

The 28-year-old has displaced Jiri Pavlenka as Werder's first-choice goalkeeper and has been praised by boss Ole Werner for his ability with the ball at his feet.

Fulham looking to the Bundesliga again after Silas snub
If Fulham do make a move for Zetterer, then the hopes will be that there is more success than in the pursuit of another Bundesliga ace, Silas Katompa Mvumpa.

Fulham tried to sign Stuttgart star Silas on deadline day but saw a loan-to-buy deal rejected by the Bundesliga club.

Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg notes that Fulham still want Silas this summer with a €20million (£17million) asking price on his head.

Fulham couldn't land Silas before the January deadline and may now hope for more success with Zetterer, possibly even hoping to land both players.

We still think that Silas is a more likely signing than Zetterer right now but the Werder stopper is a name to watch in the coming months.



https://www.fulham.news/2024/02/14/fulham-now-targeting-another-bundesliga-star-after-failing-to-sign-silas/

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Fulham and Roma chasing 6ft2 Werder Bremen standout
Fulham have emerged as a contender alongside Roma in the pursuit of Werder Bremen goalkeeper Michael Zetterer ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, as reported by calciomercato.it.

Roma are in search of a successor to Rui Patricio and have turned their attention to both Zetterer and Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret. The report also notes that Roma face stiff competition for Zetterer, with Fulham entering the fray as potential rivals.

Reports indicate that Fulham, Rennes, and Galatasaray are interested in acquiring Zetterer, with a reported price tag of just €6 million (£5 million) being mentioned.

Fulham currently boasts two German goalkeepers, Bernd Leno and Steven Benda, alongside Slovakian Marek Rodak. Bringing in Zetterer would likely introduce competition for Leno, but whether Zetterer would opt to transition from being a first-choice goalkeeper at Werder to potentially serving as a backup at Fulham remains uncertain.

Standing at 6 feet 2 inches tall, Zetterer began his career with the Werder Bremen second team before going out on loan to Austria Klagenfurt and PEC Zwolle. While he made a few appearances for Werder's first team in Germany's second tier during the 2021/22 season, Zetterer has notably progressed this season.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/02/14/fulham-and-roma-chasing-6ft2-werder-bremen-standout/