Saturday Fulham Stuff - 17/02/24...

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Fulham v Aston Villa: Unai Emery forced to test full depth of ravaged squad
This next month is shaping up to be the most challenging period of Unai Emery's Villa reign to date.

In many respects pressure levels should be nowhere near what they were when the Spaniard first walked through the doors 15 months ago to inherit a team perched just above the Premier League relegation zone.

Yet Villa's extraordinary success since has seen expectation levels soar to the point the past month can only be viewed as a disappointment, sparking fears this most promising of seasons is at risk of fizzling out.

The problem is not so much Villa's varied form, than an injury list now threatening to overwhelm Emery's squad.

Last weekend's 2-1 defeat to Manchester United, hailed by the head coach as his team's second best performance of the campaign behind December's superb victory over Manchester City, wasn't short on positives.

"Keep playing like that and we will win more than we lose," remarked captain John McGinn in the immediate aftermath.

But then came news of Boubacar Kamara's season-ending knee injury, which was then followed by Diego Carlos picking up a hamstring problem in training.

It means that, for the fourth match running, Emery will be required to field a reshuffled backline.

The one named at Fulham tomorrow, the first of three matches against teams in the lower half of the table, is likely to be different to any other seen this season. Clement Lenglet and Pau Torres, the latter himself having played just 30 minutes in two months due to ankle problem, among the only available centre-backs.

Calum Chambers, a player deemed surplus to requirements by Emery during the January transfer window, who has not played a single minute in the Premier League this season and who didn't even make the bench against United, is now a viable back-up. Chambers spent a season playing for the Cottagers in central midfield, an area where Emery also finds himself short following the injury to Kamara.

Of all the players Villa have seen sidelined this season, the France international is the most difficult to replace. That is even more so the case following the decision to let Leander Dendoncker depart on loan to Lazio.

Emery sanctioned the latter move in the belief Tim Iroegbunam offered more in the short and long-term and the 20-year-old is now guaranteed more chances to impress.

For the moment, however, Kamara's loss is likely to mean a different role for McGinn.

Thrust into attack alongside Ollie Watkins against United, the skipper will now be required to play deeper with the return to fitness and form of Jacob Ramsey providing a rare and timely boost.

Emery has never made injuries an excuse, insisting his squad had the depth to cope.

One way or the other, this next month may prove it.



https://www.expressandstar.com/sport/football/aston-villa/2024/02/16/fulham-v-aston-villa-unai-emery-forced-to-test-full-depth-of-ravaged-squad/

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Unai Emery has four Aston Villa selection solutions vs Fulham after double injury blow
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery faces a selection dilemma against Fulham after injury blows to Boubacar Kamara and Diego Carlos have restricted his options

It has proven to be a nightmare week for Aston Villa but it could still end on a high with a win over Fulham on Saturday.

Villa were left rocked by the news that Boubacar Kamara could miss the rest of the season after suffering a knee ligament injury during the team's dramatic defeat to Manchester United last weekend. While fans were still coming to terms with Kamara's absence, it was reported on Wednesday that Diego Carlos had picked up a hamstring issue in training at Bodymoor Heath.

It has been a challenging time for Unai Emery's side, winning one of their last six games, including a three-game losing streak at Villa Park to end their remarkable home record. However, Villa are only a point off the top four and Emery will be determined to help his team get back on course with a morale-boosting victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Here are four selection options for Emery against Fulham after the latest injury news...

Super John McGinn to the rescue
The injury to Kamara has left Villa scrambling for solutions in midfield. As the only senior holding midfielder in the squad, following Leander Dendocker's loan move to Napoli, Emery has several options to consider.

The Villa boss initially trusted skipper John McGinn next to Douglas Luiz in the double pivot after Kamara was substituted against Manchester United. By sitting further back, Villa would lose some of McGinn's attacking threat but the captain would be more than willing to put the team's needs first.

Here or there for Tielemans
Since he arrived from Leicester City, Tielemans has shown his versatility as part of Unai Emery's system. The Belgian has played across midfield: as a number eight, in wide areas and as the most advanced player behind Ollie Watkins.

If Emery opted to play McGinn next to Luiz then Tielemans could be used in the latter position, next to Watkins. It was a role he played to great effect in Villa's remarkable back-to-back victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, back in December. Moussa Diaby would be another option to partner Watkins in this scenario.

However, if Villa do not wish to lose McGinn's verve in attack, Tielemans could partner Luiz in the middle. That's where Tielemans finished the game against Man United as Villa failed to find an equaliser.

Time for Tim
The most like-for-like replacement for Kamara would arguably be Tim Iroegbunam. The 20-year-old played as a defensive midfielder under former Villa boss Steven Gerrard, prior to playing in a more box-to-box role during his loan spell with QPR.

After missing the start of the season through injury, Ireogbunam has become a regular in Villa's matchday squad, making three appearances from the bench. It would be viewed as a risk for Emery to trust Iroegbunam to replace Kamara, given his relative inexperience, but now could be the time for him to prove himself in a Villa shirt.

Carlos conundrum
All three of the previous solutions show the options available to Emery in midfield but Villa are not exactly spoilt for choice at centre-back. Injuries to Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres had already forced the club to rely on the partnership of Diego Carlos and Clement Lenglet. Carlos' hamstring problem further complicates matters.

Torres has been an unused substitute in Villa's last two games and supporters will be keeping their fingers crossed that the defender is deemed fit enough to start against Fulham. If not, Calum Chambers could be handed his first start for the club since September.

Predicted Aston Villa XI: Martinez; Cash, Lenglet, Torres, Moreno; Luiz, McGinn; Bailey, Tielemans, Ramsey; Watkins.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/unai-emery-four-aston-villa-28641092

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Fulham now battling Aston Villa in race to sign 'brilliant' Premier League defender
Fulham are now interested in signing Luton Town defender Gabriel Osho but face competition from Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.

Marco Silva has a host of defensive options at his disposal right now but will be looking for a potential signing.

Tim Ream is now 36 and, more worryingly, Tosin Adarabioyo is out of contract at the end of the season.

Liverpool are understood to have joined the race for Adarabioyo, so Fulham must identify potential replacements.

Fulham interested in Luton Town ace Gabriel Osho
Transfer insider Dean Jones has now told Sports Lens that Fulham are one of three clubs interested in signing Luton Town defender Gabriel Osho.

Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are also understood to have taken an interest in signing Osho this summer.

Osho's contract is understood to expire this summer and the 25-year-old may well fancy moving on.

Osho is represented by the Wasserman agency, who also have Fulham duo Luc De Fougerolles and Antonee Robinson on their books.

The former Reading talent has bagged two goals in 13 Premier League games this season and has played a key part in the Hatters battling against relegation.

Hailed as a 'brilliant human being' and a 'really hard worker' by Luton boss Rob Edwards, Osho has shown promise in his first Premier League campaign and Fulham are now keen.

Who is Fulham target Osho?
Osho hails from Reading and started his career in the Royals ranks but made just 10 first-team appearances for the club.

After loan spells at Maidenhead United, Aldershot Town, Bristol Rovers and Yeovil Town, Osho rejected a new deal and quit Reading in 2020.

Luton pounced to sign Osho after he played as a trialist for Salford City and sent him back to Yeovil on loan before a 2021 spell with Rochdale.

Osho kicked on with Luton and played 26 league games last season, playing a role in their promotion to the Premier League.

Now impressing in the Premier League, Osho could yet end up joining Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi in the Nigeria squad as he qualifies to play for the Super Eagles.

Osho ơn a free transfer could be bargain depth for Fulham and his ability to play as a right back may also appeal to Marco Silva and co ahead of the summer window.



https://www.fulham.news/2024/02/16/fulham-now-battling-aston-villa-in-race-to-sign-brilliant-premier-league-defender/

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'They will get something'... Chris Sutton predicts the result of Aston Villa vs Fulham on Saturday
Aston Villa travel to Craven Cottage to face Marco Silva's Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

Unai Emery's men are coming off of a disappointing defeat to Manchester United; however, their top-four aspirations are still alive.

Aston Villa sit just one point behind Tottenham, who occupy the fourth spot, having played the same number of games.

The visitors have plenty of injury issues, with several first-team players now out of action.

Boubacar Kamara is out for the season after sustaining an ACL injury during the defeat to United, and Diego Carlos pulled up in training with a hamstring issue.

Ezri Konsa is sidelined for several weeks after spraining his knee against Sheffield United.

The likes of Calum Chambers and Pau Torres could be thrust into Emery's starting XI, having been out of contention just a few days ago.

As for the hosts, Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey returned to training this week after their AFCON heartbreak for Nigeria and should be in contention for Saturday's fixture.

Ahead of the game, BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton believes one of Villa's injuries is a "serious setback".

Chris Sutton delivers Aston Villa v Fulham Premier League verdict
In his weekly predictions, Sutton feels Kamara's injury is a massive blow.

"Boubacar Kamara's injury is a serious setback for Aston Villa and, with Fulham usually strong at home, this is a difficult game for Unai Emery's side," he told BBC Sport.

The former Celtic striker also feels this is a must-win game for Emery's side, with the likes of Tottenham hitting form.

He added: "It feels like Villa have to win this, with Tottenham and Manchester United both hitting form in the race for the top four."

Despite Villa's lofty league position, the BBC Sport pundit has backed Silva's side to get a point.

"But Fulham have started scoring again, with Rodrigo Muniz getting two goals in their win over Bournemouth last week, and I feel like they will get something here as well. 1-1," he said.

This does feel like a must-win match for Emery. With the likes of Tottenham and Manchester United winning consistently, a poor run of form could put to bed any hopes of a top-four finish.

One big positive is the return of Tyrone Mings, with the 30-year-old returning to training on Thursday after sustaining a knee injury on the first day of the season against Newcastle United.



https://www.astonvilla.news/match-coverage/they-will-get-something-chris-sutton-predicts-the-result-of-aston-villa-vs-fulham-on-saturday/

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Assessing Alex Iwobi's criticism: Is the Fulham star to blame or the Super Eagles' formation system?

Alex Iwobi has faced a series of criticisms during and after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament which has kept him away from the social media spaces

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has faced significant criticism for his performance with the Nigerian national team at the recent Africa Cup of Nations tournament, as reported by Soccernet.ng.

Critics have pointed out his perceived lack of creativity, tendency to focus on defense rather than attack, and a deficiency in creating scoring opportunities during AFCON matches.

In response to inquiries, Iwobi stated that he has been executing the instructions given to him by Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro, primarily to maintain possession in midfield.

Following the AFCON final against Cote d'Ivoire, Iwobi has been subjected to cyberbullying, but has received support from teammates, the Nigeria Football Federation, and some members of the Nigerian football community.

Should Alex Iwobi bear the blame?
A former Arsenal forward, Iwobi typically operates behind the striker to provide assists and capitalize on scoring chances. However, during his tenure at Everton, under the management of Frank Lampard, he demonstrated adaptability by excelling in midfield.

During AFCON 2023, Peseiro employed a 4-3-3 system initially, transitioning to a 3-4-3 formation later in the tournament. This tactical shift demanded increased defensive duties from Iwobi, limiting his offensive contributions.

How has Iwobi responded to the criticism?
Despite facing backlash, Iwobi appears unfazed, as evidenced by his minimal activity on social media and focus on his responsibilities with Fulham, where he is expected to resume playing and contribute to upcoming fixtures.



https://soccernet.ng/2024/02/assessing-alex-iwobis-criticism-is-the-fulham-star-to-blame-or-the-super-eagles-formation-system.html

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£33m Aston Villa signing set for first 2024 start v Fulham on Saturday
Aston Villa head take on Fulham on Saturday afternoon looking to bounce back from their 2-1 defeat to Manchester United.

Unai Emery's side have bounced back well this season, with a win immediately following each of their five defeats before the loss to United.

With Villa yet to lose back-to-back games, the travelling support should head to West London in a confident mood.

The defeat to Manchester United wasn't a poor performance. As per FotMob, Villa had more possession and created an xG (expected goals) of 2.43 compared to United's 1.79.

Furthermore, the home side managed seven more shots and five more on target than Erik ten Hag's.

On another day, the result could have been entirely different.

Villa's performance level is still extremely high, which means anything less than three points on Saturday will disappoint.

Pau Torres set for first 2024 Aston Villa start
£33million signing Pau Torres could be set for his first start of 2024.

According to The Express and Star, the Spaniard has been sidelined with an ankle problem but could return for Villa's clash against Marco Silva's side.

This will be a welcome return for Emery, who recently saw his squad ravaged by injury.

Influential midfielder Boubacar Kamara has been ruled out for the season with an ACL injury after he went down during the loss to Manchester United.

Defensive duo Diego Carlos and Ezri Konsa are also sidelined. The Brazilian went down in training with a hamstring issue, and Konsa sprained his knee during the 5-0 win over Sheffield United.

One massive positive is the return of Tyrone Mings, who has returned to training after injuring his knee in Villa's opening game of the 2023/24 season.

If Mings can return to partner Torres, Villa's Champions League ambitions could remain on track.

However, Emery could be forced to call upon Calum Chambers for the trip to West London. The former Arsenal defender has been a forgotten man at Villa Park, making just one start this season.

The 29-year-old was told he could depart the club during the latter stages of the January window; however, he could now play a vital role over the next few weeks.



https://www.astonvilla.news/match-coverage/33m-aston-villa-signing-set-for-first-2024-start-v-fulham-on-saturday/

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AEW's Tony Khan Opens Up About The Many Different Hats He Wears
While wrestling fans will know him as the President of AEW and the owner of Ring of Honor, Tony Khan has other ventures that make him one of the busiest men in all of sports. When he's not booking four weekly wrestling shows, he is the Sporting Director of Fulham in the English Premier League, the Chief Football Strategy Officer for the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL, and has other business ventures, which includes TruMedia Networks and Activists Artist Management.

Speaking on the "Payne and Pendergast" radio show, Khan opened up about how he is able to cope with such a busy lifestyle.

"Every day's different," Khan said. "You're working in the different sports, you have to devote your attention differently throughout the season, but really there's no off-season in wrestling. Wrestling's year-round and there is off seasons to some extent in the NFL and the Premier League, but that's also scouting time, that's valuable player personnel time of course, particularly in my role at Fulham as the Sporting Director. There's really no time off in anything we do, and I just love working in football and wrestling, it's great."

On top of AEW and ROH's success in recent years, Khan's influence has been felt in both the NFL and the Premier League. Fulham avoided relegation in the 2022-23 season and reached the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup for the first time in the club's history in the 2023-24 season, while the Jacksonville Jaguars reached the Divisional Play-Offs of the NFL as recently as 2022.



Read More: https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1517304/aew-tony-khan-opens-many-different-hats-wears/

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Fulham v Aston Villa

TEAM NEWS
Fulham are boosted by the return of Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Defenders Tosin Adarabioyo and Kenny Tete have also recovered from minor issues but Raul Jimenez remains out.

Aston Villa have lost Diego Carlos and Boubacar Kamara this week to respective hamstring and knee injuries.

Pau Torres could make his first start since mid-December, while Lucas Digne may also be considered after his recent return from a hamstring problem.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

    Fulham have won six of their past seven home games against Aston Villa in all competitions, losing the other.
    However, Villa have won four of the five most recent Premier League meetings, with the exception being a 3-0 loss at Craven Cottage last season that resulted in Steven Gerrard being sacked as head coach.

Fulham

    Fulham are on a three-match unbeaten run in the top flight, winning one and drawing two.
    The Cottagers have won five of their past seven home league matches (D1, L1), scoring 18 goals in those victories.
    Marco Silva's side have faced 46 shots in their past two home fixtures - 21 versus Everton and 25 against Bournemouth - which amounts to a third of the efforts they've faced at Craven Cottage this season.
    Rodrigo Muniz has three goals in his last two Premier League games after failing to score in his first 10 appearances.
    Armando Broja has scored just once in his last 21 Premier League appearances, with that goal coming in Chelsea's 2-0 victory at Craven Cottage in October.

Aston Villa

    Aston Villa have lost three of their past four games in all competitions, winning the other.
    However, they are unbeaten in four away matches, winning two and drawing two.
    Villa could suffer consecutive Premier League defeats for the first time since May 2023.
    The Villans have won their last nine Premier League fixtures against London opposition, including their previous three trips to the capital this season.
    Unai Emery is set for his 50th league game in charge of Aston Villa - he's won 29, drawn eight and lost 12 of the previous 49.
    Ollie Watkins has scored in five of his last six top-flight appearances in London.
    Emiliano Martinez is set to make his 200th English league appearance.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68260180

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"I got some calls" – Fulham forward reveals he rejected chance to leave Craven Cottage, was 'best decision'
As ESPN Brasil's website today features some bits of an interview with Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, he talked about a possibility he had to leave the Whites.

The truth is that the player doesn't make it very clear whether that happened in January 2023 or January 2024. He just mentions that his loan at Middlesbrough in 2022/23 was something that nearly pushed him to accept a transfer.

"Last year was a difficult year at Middlesbrough. Then in January I got some calls from Brazil and I was thinking about coming back. But I spoke a lot with my wife, my parents, and I really wanted to be important, to score goals out here. And if I went back to Brazil it might have been difficult at the time. And today I'm sure that I made the best decision at the time."

In case Muniz is speaking about January 2023, that would be because despite a good start at Middlesbrough, he was rarely used from November onwards.

From January, he wasn't even being taken to games, and that's why cutting short the loan spell may have crossed his mind.

Now if he's talking about last month, that may be because he indeed got very much linked to a departure from Fulham, with Brazilian clubs interested.

He had been struggling in the competition for a place in attack and had scored no Premier League goals until the end of January.

Things seem to be turning around, though, as he has since scored three goals in the last two matches, against Burnley and Bournemouth, so that's a good reason for him to be glad to have stayed.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/i-got-calls-fulham-forward-reveals-rejected-chance-leave-craven-cottage-best-decision/

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Iwobi and Bassey back in Fulham training
Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey have been pictured in Fulham training ahead of Saturday's meeting with Aston Villa at Craven Cottage.

The Nigerian internationals, fresh from reaching the final of the African Cup of Nations with the Super Eagles last Sunday, were featured in the latest edition of Motspur Parklife, the FFCTV behind-the-scenes video content, which was published on the club's official website this afternoon.

Bassey and Iwobi have been sorely missed over the past few weeks whilst they were on international duty and could hand Marco Silva a significant boost as he ponders whether to stick with the same side that beat Bournemouth 3-1 last weekend.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/iwobi-and-bassey-back-in-fulham-training/

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Fulham could revive Orsolini interest
Fulham are set to revive their interest in Bologna winger Riccardo Orsolini, according to reports from Italy.

The Premier League club made an enquiry with their Serie A counterparts about the Italian international's availability in January and have been tipped to return with an offer in the summer by Calciomercato. The Italian outlet suggests that the 27 year-old's excellent form could see him leave Bologna at the end of the season, despite signing a new contract with his current club last summer.

Orsolini, who has scored nine goals in 21 games this season, has been watched by Fenerbahce already this term but is believed to be interested in plying his trade in the Premier League. Fulham head coach Marco Silva is understood to have been disappointed not to have strengthened the club's wide options last month and will be looking at wingers to strengthen his squad come the summer.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/fulham-could-revive-orsolini-interest/

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Staying at Fulham was 'best decision,' says Muniz
Rodrigo Muniz has spoken for the first time about how he rejected interest from overseas clubs to stay at Craven Cottage – and the Brazilian striker feels remaining at Fulham 'was the best decision'.

The 22 year-old told ESPN Brazil:

Last year was a difficult year at Middlesbrough. Then in January I got some calls from Brazil and I was thinking about coming back. But I spoke a lot with my wife, my parents, and I really wanted to be important, to score goals out here. And if I went back to Brazil it might have been difficult at the time. And today I'm sure that I made the best decision at the time."

Muniz has largely been an understudy to Aleksandar Mitrovic and then Raul Jimenez at Fulham, but has taken an opportunity to shine after the latter's injury with both hands in the past fortnight. He scored his first Premier League goal in the 2-2 draw at Burnley earlier this month and then bagged a brilliant brace to seal a vital three points against Bournemouth last weekend.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/staying-at-fulham-was-best-decision-says-muniz/

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Willian: 'Fulham have huge potential to win trophies'
An upbeat Willian has told the Daily Telegraph that Fulham have 'huge potential to be one of the best clubs in the Premier League, to start winning trophies'.

The evergreen Brazilian winger admits to feeling 'grateful' that the Whites 'opened the door' for a return to English football after his return to his boyhood club Corinthians turned sour. He says that head coach Marco Silva has been crucial to his renaissance at Craven Cottage:

"When I decided to join Fulham it was because it's a nice club in London but the main thing was Marco. We had a great conversation and, for me, he's a great manager. I am enjoying working with him a lot. He always tries to understand the players and he tries to speak with you as well. In football, the human part is always important and he's a great guy.

Historically, this club has gone up and down, up and down. But I think it has a huge potential to be one of the best clubs in the Premier League, to start winning trophies and to start fighting for something good. This club can do that. It's London, a great stadium, good people in the club. It's a good place to be. Look, they opened the door for me and I will always be grateful for that."

The 35 year-old, who has scored ten goals and added eight assists in 56 appearances for Fulham, is adamant that he wants to extend his stay at Craven Cottage.

"Yeah, but I don't know if they want me to stay! We are going to decide at the end of the season. Now, I just want to be focussed on playing well and training well and giving my best to the club. Then we will see what we can do, what we are going to do. Everyone says to me 'how's it possible that you are 35? You can't be! It's good to hear that."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/willian-fulham-have-huge-potential-to-win-trophies/

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Before The Whistle: Fulham v Aston Villa

We played Aston Villa at the absolute worst time when we travelled to Villa Park last year. As we prepare to welcome them to the Cottage, there arguably couldn't be a better time to face them.

We're in similar veins of form over the last few weeks – in fact, we've gained a point more than the Villains in our last six games. Villa have lost just six times in the league all season – and three of those have come in their last six.

Nevertheless, they still sit fifth in the table and represent one hell of a test as we look to win our second game in a row.

We're just one win away from equalling our total number of home wins achieved last season – it's that form at the Cottage that has helped keep us out of trouble so far, seeing as we've not bagged three points on the road since Everton on the opening day.

We're buoyed by the return of Nigerian duo Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi. We've been sailing close to the wind in terms of fit centre-backs, so the former is likely to slot back in from the start, whereas Silva may hold Iwobi back to deploy in the latter stages. We've certainly missed his guile and ability to make things happen.

With the recent returns of Harry Wilson and Adama Traore, we're suddenly looking far more blessed in an attacking sense ahead of a tricky run of games. As for other potential injuries, Silva says both Tete and Tosin are fit and ready to be included.

A point would take us to 30 points with 13 games left to play, putting the magic 40-point mark – and safety – firmly in our crosshairs. You Whites.
ℹ️ MATCH DETAILS

Kick-Off: Saturday, 3.00PM
Stadium: Craven Cottage
Competition: Premier League
TV Channel (UK): None

🚦 LEAGUE FORM

Fulham: ❌ ✅ ❌ ⬜ ⬜ ✅
Villa: ❌ ✅ ⬜ ❌ ✅ ❌

⚖️ MATCH PROBABILITY

Fulham: 31.8%
Draw: 29.3%
Villa: 38.9%

🥊 MOST RECENT MATCHES

Nov 23: Villa 3-1 Fulham
Apr 23: Villa 1-0 Fulham
Oct 22: Fulham 3-0 Villa
Apr 21: Villa 3-1 Fulham



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-02-16-before-the-whistle-fulham-v-aston-villa/

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Team news for Fulham fixture
Diego Carlos and Boubacar Kamara have been added to Aston Villa's injury list ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Fulham.

Centre-back Carlos picked up a hamstring injury in training this week and has been ruled out for 3-4 weeks, joining Kamara on the sidelines after he sustained knee ligament damage in last Sunday's defeat to Manchester United.

They join defender Ezri Konsa, striker Jhon Durán and long-term absentees Tyrone Mings and Emi Buendía on the sidelines.

Pau Torres and Lucas Digne are both available for the trip to west London having returned to Villa's matchday squad last weekend.

Reflecting on Kamara's long-term injury setback, Emery said: "It's most difficult, firstly, for the player, as a person, when they have been injured and when they're injured for a long time, it's the worst in football.

"We had two injuries for a long time, for all season, Tyrone Mings and Emi Buendía.

"And now it's the same with Boubacar Kamara, his injury is ACL.

"He's going to be out for the rest of the season. Maybe, more or less, in September or October he is coming back."

Head coach Emery also discussed the progress of Mings and Buendía.

The pair both suffered significant knee injuries in August and been continuing their respective recoveries at Bodymoor Heath.

"Always they are in our minds, their spirit, they support us every day here at the training ground. It's very important," said the Spaniard.

"I think all season they are going to be out.

"But hopefully they can come back to train at the end of the season with the group.

"And try to start next season being completely fine to come back playing like they were playing before."



https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/february/16/team-news-for-fulham-fixture/

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Marco's Villa Preview
Marco Silva is looking for his Fulham side to build on the victory last week as they prepare for a stern Aston Villa test on Saturday.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/february/16/marco-s-villa-preview/

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Aston Villa Matchday Preview
Fulham v Aston Villa | Saturday 17th February | 3pm | Craven Cottage | #FULAVL

The opposition

    Aston Villa have continued their excellent progression under Unai Emery this season, and will fancy their chances of securing a Champions League spot, currently sitting a point and a position behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.
    For some time, a title challenge looked feasible. It's still not beyond the realms of possibility, but two wins from seven has seen them fall off the pace somewhat.
    The Villans were in sparkling form the last time they were on their travels, storming into a 4-0 lead inside half an hour at Bramall lane, eventually defeating Sheffield United by five goals.

Fulham team news

Fulham will welcome Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi back to the squad following the conclusion of the Africa Cup of Nations, but Raúl Jiménez is out.

Aston Villa team news

With Tyrone Mings long-term injured, and Ezri Konsa and Diego Carlos picking up knocks recently, Pau Torres' return to the matchday squad for last weekend's defeat by Manchester United could prove to be a timely one, with Villa looking fairly thin at centre-back. Influential midfielder Boubacar Kamara suffered a knee injury against United which could rule him out for the season, while Emi Buendia is also a long-term absentee.

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Weather

While it is currently forecast to be dry in SW6 come kick-off, the Met Office has issued a yellow warning for rain in London. Temperatures should be fairly consistently around the 13 degree mark.

Player insight

Rodrigo Muniz wants Fulham to make home advantage count when we take on Aston Villa.

"Always when we play against Aston Villa, it's a difficult game," he said. "They have a great team, but let's see. We've had one week to train, before we play against a good team, Aston Villa, and we are ready to play and to try to win.

"I think when we play at home, we have been stronger than away. We feel strong at home.

"It's always good when we play there, because the fans help us a lot when we attack. The fans are unbelievable.

"I think now our team is more confident, and we are ready to play."

Coverage

FFCtv subscribers can listen to live commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid.

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Early bird

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Bag policy

Bags larger than A4 in size will not be permitted entry to the stadium. Please see our bag policy for full details, and information on our left luggage facility.

Form

Fulham: DLDDW

Aston Villa: DLWLL

Top scorers

Fulham: Bobby De Cordova-Reid, Raúl Jiménez (5)

Aston Villa: Ollie Watkins (11)

Matchday programme

The 2023/24 season has been an historic one for Tim Ream. His start against Sheffield United saw the defender become the first Fulham player since Simon Morgan, some 26-and-a-half years earlier, to reach the 300-appearance milestone for the Club. A few months later, Ream signed a one-year extension to his contract which will see him remain a Fulham player until the summer of 2025, by which point he will have been at the Club for a decade.

"When you join a new club, you never think you will be in a position to sign a contract that brings you to 10 years at one club," commented Ream, in an interview for this Saturday's matchday programme. "To have that opportunity, to be one of those players, is great."

Elsewhere in Saturday's matchday programme, we speak to former Whites midfielder Richard Carpenter in 'The Ex-Files', while we explore players to have worn the Fulham number 19 shirt in 'Magic Numbers'.

Priced at £4, you can pick up a copy of the programme on the day or online.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/february/16/aston-villa-matchday-preview/

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Pre-Aston Villa Press Conference
Marco Silva says Aston Villa have enough about them to cope with any dips in form or injury problems.

Unai Emery's side will arrive at Craven Cottage without influential trio Ezri Konsa, Diego Carlos and Boubacar Kamara, while they have also lost three of their last four matches in all competitions.

Nonetheless, Silva is a big fan of the work being done at Villa Park, and cited the one game they did win in the last four as a key example – a 5-0 away thrashing of Sheffield United.

"Top challenge, a difficult one," Silva assessed. "Unai is doing a fantastic job there. They are fighting for the Champions League places, still playing in European competition. It's been so difficult for any team to play against them at their home, away from home as well.

"The way they react in some moments when they have bad results, straightaway they can react. A good example – after a bad result [at home to Newcastle], when they went to Sheffield United away, they won clearly that game, and that showed their quality.

"Really, really well managed by Unai as well, with top players in their squad, even with the injuries that they have. If you can replace Pau Torres with [Clement] Lenglet, or Lenglet with Pau Torres, there's not a big difference.

"They have all these quality players, [Leon] Bailey or [Moussa] Diaby, all these players that they have in certain areas of the pitch, of course shows the quality they have in their squad, and it's going to be a really tough game for us."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/february/16/pre-aston-villa-press-conference/

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Willian reveals plans for career change as he reflects on walking away from huge Arsenal deal
Former Chelsea and Arsenal star Willian is currently thriving with Fulham at the age of 35 and already has plans in place for his next chapter when he eventually hangs up his boots

Former Arsenal star Willian has ambitions of becoming an agent after being made aware of how easily players can "kill" their career.

The Brazilian winger is currently enjoying an eye-catching Premier League renaissance with Fulham. His impressive form comes off the back of a miserable spell with Arsenal - a period that ended with the remainder of his contract being cancelled and a return to Brazil.

Now at 35, Willian is already putting plans in place for the next stage of his career and wants to help youngsters in the early stages of their own footballing journeys. Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, he said: "You can kill your career, your life, if you don't have good people who always say the truth.

"Young players need to be careful... In football it can come easy: money, everything you want, everyone wants to be your friend. I am always worrying about what goes on outside the pitch. Maybe you have 15 years to build your life, to invest well your money and then maybe in five minutes you can destroy it."

Willian's admission over his next chapter is another well thought out move from the former Shakhtar Donetsk winger. Ahead of his switch to Fulham, he had endured a rocky few years.

After leaving Chelsea, he penned a mega money three-year deal contract with Arsenal. However, he lasted just a year in North London.

Willian made 37 appearances for the Gunners, scoring just once and providing seven assists. Explaining why he chose to pass-up the remainder of the wages owed to him, he said: "When I left Arsenal everyone knows it was not good. It was a difficult year for me.

"I decided to leave and, at that time, I still had two more years contract and I just said to them 'listen, let's break the contract. It has not worked the way we wanted.

"I will go somewhere else and I will continue to play football'. I turned the situation around and, now, three years later I am at this club [Fulham], enjoying myself. It's an amazing club, to be honest."

After making his decision to depart Arsenal, people were apparently calling him "crazy" for giving up the wages owed to him. However, the veteran wideman insists that he was never financially motivated.

He added: "But I don't think about money. I know money is important, for sure. But it's not the first thing in my life. For me, God first. Then my family, then football. Then the other things. But I wasn't happy so that's why I decided to leave."

Willian is out of contract at the end of the current campaign but claims that retirement is not yet on his mind and suggests that he could potentially play until 40.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/willian-transfer-arsenal-fulham-chelsea-32144756

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Silva braced for 'difficult' Villa challenge
Marco Silva has told his pre-match press conference this afternoon that Saturday's opponents Aston Villa have enough quality in their squad to pose 'a difficult challenge' for Fulham regardless of any injury concerns.

Unai Emery's side head to Craven Cottage for tomorrow's fixture having lost three out of their last four fixtures in all competitions and will make the journey to London without the services of Ezri Konsa, Diego Carlos and Boubacar Kamara. But Silva knows his side will need to be wary of a wounded animal:

"[It will be a] top challenge, a difficult one. Unai is doing a fantastic job there. They are fighting for the Champions League places, still playing in European competition. It's been so difficult for any team to play against them at their home, away from home as well. The way they react in some moments when they have bad results, straightaway they can react. A good example – after a bad result [at home to Newcastle], when they went to Sheffield United away, they won clearly that game, and that showed their quality.

Really, really well managed by Unai as well, with top players in their squad, even with the injuries that they have. If you can replace Pau Torres with [Clement] Lenglet, or Lenglet with Pau Torres, there's not a big difference. They have all these quality players, [Leon] Bailey or [Moussa] Diaby, all these players that they have in certain areas of the pitch, of course shows the quality they have in their squad, and it's going to be a really tough game for us."

Silva also insisted that Nigerian midfielder Alex Iwobi will be involved against Villa despite having received what the Fulham boss described as 'completely unfair' abuse from Super Eagles fans following the African Cup of Nations final.

"Mentally, he's very good. Alex is a happy boy when he's on the pitch doing what he loves, he's always doing it with a smile on his face. I know part, I don't know everything what people said about it. I don't see reasons because if you lose a game you lose a game together, if you win a game you win together of course. They did brilliantly until the final.

They lost the final and the people reacted they think that is the best. In my opinion it was completely unfair because of the way they criticised him on social media. It's more strange when there is no reason to do it. Since he arrived here, of course I had a chat with him. He's going to be involved in the game tomorrow, him and Calvin Bassey."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/02/silva-braced-for-difficult-villa-challenge/