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

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Paessler PRTG Always Keeps The Ball Rolling At Fulham FC
Founded in 1879, the Fulham Football Club (FC) is the oldest active professional soccer club in the British capital of London. Fulham FC currently plays in the second highest English league to around 25,000 fans at the legendary Craven Cottage stadium.

It's no easy task getting the club ready for its bi-monthly home games. Among other things, Fulham FC must maintain a massive IT network spread across several locations. For more than 250 employees, this is the hub of their day-to-day activities. The guardian of the network is Alex Malinov, Head of IT at Fulham FC. As he puts it: "In spite of having live football at its heart, Fulham FC is a 365-day-a-year organisation.

The stakes
The Fulham FC soccer club is located in the London district of Fulham. Since 1896, the "Cottagers" have been playing their home games at Craven Cottage stadium nestled on the banks of the River Thames. In order to make sure games run smoothly, the club not only needs 11 players – but also a functioning IT network. If certain systems go down, then games may have to be canceled. Fulham FC needed a monitoring tool to help them keep a constant eye on their network. PRTG Network Monitor, monitoring software developed by Paessler, proved to be the perfect solution.

The IT infrastructure at Fulham FC is extremely complex – it contains two data centers, and is spread out across three different locations. It is backed by VMware components, EMC storage units, Juniper switches, and a Veeam solution for backup and off-site replication – not to mention an equally complex virtual private LAN service (VPLS) solution from the British provider Exponential-e. If individual systems or applications fail, then the club's operations can become severely disrupted.



https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU2403/S00003/paessler-prtg-always-keeps-the-ball-rolling-at-fulham-fc.htm

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Will Bournemouth Get First League Win This Year At Burnley?
Our team have been playing good football recently but have not been able to turn chances into goals to get more points on the board. AFCB have not won a league game since Boxing Day at Dean Court when we beat Fulham. Our last game against title contenders Manchester City finished in defeat, but again with better finishing our side could have got something out of the game.

Our next three games are against teams in the bottom three, one away and two at home. First up is a trip up to Lancashire to Turf Moor the home of Burnley since 1883. The Cherries will be hoping to pick up a win against a club that have struggled since they were promoted as Champions in the Championship last season. The game is on Sunday at 1 pm and is being shown live on Sky.

Last October Vincent Company and his Burnley team visited Dean Court, the Cherries won 2-1. After the weekend games, the table had Sheffield United in 20th place, Burnley in 19th and Luton Town in 18th, all three teams occupying the bottom three relegation places. The Cherries were in 17th place one point ahead of the Hatters. Now after 26 games (Luton and AFCB 25 games), the bottom three haven't changed. AFCB have moved up to 14th place with a gap of eight points between them and Luton Town.

Since that game in October, Burnley lost the next three league games, making that a run of six defeats in a row, their worst run this season. Since their defeat at Dean Court, in their home games, they have won one game, which was against relegation rivals Sheffield United and it was also their highest score this season, 5-0. They have drawn two, 1-1 with Luton Town and 2-2 against Fulham. They lost 0-2 against Crystal Palace, 1-2 West Ham, 0-2 in their games against the two teams from Merseyside, Everton and Liverpool. Their most recent game ended in their heaviest defeat this season, 0-5 against Arsenal.

Away from home, they beat Fulham. Drawn with Brighton. Lost six games, they were Arsenal, Wolves, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and most recently Crystal Palace.

Our last visit to Turf Moor was in February of our relegation season under Eddie Howe, who had previously managed the Lancashire side. Burnley won the game 3-0, with their goals coming in the second half from Matej Vidra, Jay Rodriguez from the penalty spot and Dwight McNeil.

In our away league games against Burnley, AFCB have W 1, Drawn 6, Lost 7.
In all competitions, AFCB have W 8, Drawn 11, Lost 16.



https://bournemouth.vitalfootball.co.uk/will-bournemouth-get-first-league-win-this-year-at-burnley/

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Brighton's £9m star signing pushing for first start at Fulham after 34-game absence
All the latest team news for Brighton and Hove Albion and across the Premier League

Brighton's Paraguay playmaker Julio Enciso is pushing to be in the starting XI at Fulham this Saturday.

Enciso, who joined Brighton for around £9m from Libertad on a four-year deal in 2022, is back following a serious knee injury sustained at Wolves last August.

Two operations and a lengthy rehabilitation period followed as the 20-year-old battled back to full-fitness.

Enciso made his return as a second half substitute in the 1-1 draw with Everton last Saturday and he also came off the bench in the closing stages of the 1-0 FA Cup fifth round loss at Wolves on Wednesday.

Head coach Roberto De Zerbi will be mindful not to push Enciso too hard, too soon – especially with the upcoming Europa League clash with Roma this Thursday – but the attacker is in the frame to start at Fulham this Saturday.

De Zerbi has a number of injury concern to attacking players, which could see Enciso – who sealed Brighton's place in this season's Europa League with his goal of the season strike against Man City last term – play a key role at Craven Cottage.

"Enciso is a top player," said De Zerbi last week. " He is young but the most important part is that he is a big talent and a big player. My expectation from Julio is very big. I would like him to help us to win the Europa League.

"I don't want to know the age of the player, I want to see quality, personality, courage, energy... and other things are not my business.

"Physical condition is important in football but more important is motivation. I think Julio has more motivation than other players in our squad."



https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/brightons-ps9m-star-signing-pushing-for-first-start-at-fulham-after-34-game-absence-4539107

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https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/brightons-ps9m-star-signing-pushing-for-first-start-at-fulham-after-34-game-absence-4539107
There has been no indication as of yet whether Tosin Adarabioyo will definitely be leaving Fulham at the end of the season, but the general consensus is that he will

The defender's contract at Craven Cottage expires in June of this year, and with no renewal in sight, a free transfer for the player appears to be on the cards.

In Italy, there is one team that is waiting for a sign to make a real move for the Fulham centre-back, and that's AC Milan, as explained by Gazzetta dello Sport on Friday.

The newspaper look at some of the Serie A club's targets this summer, recalling how desperate they are to sign at least one new central defender in the next transfer window.

Maxence Lacroix and Lilian Brassier are two options for them, but they will cost money, as their contracts expire in 2025.

Adarabioyo, on the other hand, would be free, and Gazzetta dello Sport are certain 'he is leaving' Fulham in the summer.

Where they have this information from isn't said, but it could be they know something from AC Milan's side after contact was made in January, although the Italians will certainly not be the only club interested in getting the 26-year-old this summer.

The Fulham defender has made 17 appearances under Marco Silva this season, returning to the side towards the end of November after recovering from groin surgery, and has never left the starting line up since in the Premier League since December when fully fit.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/player-leaving-fulham-summer-club-ready-contact-initiated-back-january/

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Fulham v Brighton & Hove Albion

TEAM NEWS
Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha serves the second game of a two-match suspension.

Willian is fit again, with Raul Jimenez, who has a hamstring problem, the only current injury absentee.

Brighton midfielder Billy Gilmour is banned after his red card against Everton last week.

Kaoru Mitoma is set to miss the rest of the season but Evan Ferguson, Joel Veltman and Tariq Lamptey could return after being unavailable in midweek.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

    Fulham are unbeaten in all seven Premier League matches against Brighton (W3, D4).
    Brighton have lost two of their last three top-flight games away to Fulham.

Fulham

    Fulham could win back-to-back league matches for just the second time this season.
    They have won just one of their last five home games in all competitions (D2, L2).
    The Cottagers have failed to score in 10 Premier League games this season although they did find the net in all four of their top-flight matches in February.
    Marco Silva is unbeaten in all three Premier League home matches as a manager versus Brighton, winning with Everton and Fulham, and drawing while in charge of Watford.
    Their last three Premier League goals at Craven Cottage have been scored by Rodrigo Muniz. The Brazilian could become the first player since Louis Saha in 2003 to score four consecutive top-flight home goals for Fulham.

Brighton

    After winning five of their opening six Premier League matches this season, Brighton have won only five of the last 20 (D9, L6).
    The Seagulls have scored four or more goals in five Premier League games this season - only Arsenal and Liverpool have done so in more matches.
    Brighton are winless in all five of their Premier League away fixtures against London sides this season (D2, L3).
    They are aiming to keep consecutive Premier League away clean sheets for the first time since February 2021 under Graham Potter.
    Pascal Gross has either scored or assisted a goal in each of his last four Premier League appearances, with a goal and four assists.
    Brighton have made 96 changes to their starting line-ups in the Premier League this season, at least 25 more than any other side.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68389649

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Brighton predicted line-up vs. Fulham: five major changes made as key striker returns to squad
The latest Brighton team news, injury updates and predicted XI ahead of their Premier League clash vs Fulham

European hopefuls Brighton will look to bounce back from their FA Cup exit to Wolves when they take on Fulham in the Premier League.

The Seagulls currently find themselves in seventh position and have so far done a steady job of juggling the demands of Europa League and Premier League football.

However, their performances have perhaps lacked the consistency that we saw last term and this was perhaps best encapsulated just over a month ago by a 4-0 loss to Luton at the end of January, which was instantly followed by a 4-1 victory against rivals Crystal Palace a week later.

At their best Roberto De Zerbi's men have been one of the great entertainers of the division and they are just one of three clubs to have scored four or more goals in five separate Premier League games along with title challengers Arsenal and Liverpool.

Much of this spark has been down to the creative nature of Japanese international Karou Mitoma, but De Zerbi's men will now have to react to life without the exciting winger after he was ruled out for the rest of the season with injury.Ahead of kick-off we take a look at the predicted lineup for Brighton and their London counterparts Fulham.

Brighton team news
Brighton midfielder Billy Gilmour misses the trip to Craven Cottage through suspension after his red card against Everton last week. He joins injury-hit Solly March, Jack Hinshelwood, James Milner and Joao Pedro on the sidelines, along with the aforementioned Mitoma, who is unlikely to return this season.

In brighter news for Roberto De Zerbi's side, the likes of Evan Ferguson, Joel Veltman and Tariq Lamptey are all pushing to return after missing out in midweek. De Zerbi faces a number of key selection decisions as he looks to end a seven game winless streak against Fulham in the Premier League.

Brighton predicted XI: Verbruggen, Lamptey, Van Hecke, Dunk, Estupinan, Gross, Baleba, Adringra, Lallana, Buonanotte, Ferguson



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/brighton-fulham-lineup-predicted-injuries-team-news-football-premier-league-4539477

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Another Nomination For Muniz!
Rodrigo Muniz has received another nomination acknowledging his February performances, this time for the PFA Premier League Fans' Player of the Month.

It follows his shortlisting for the Premier League's EA Sports Player of the Month accolade on Thursday.

Muniz faces similar competition in this vote, from Phil Foden, Rasmus Højlund, João Gomes, Bukayo Saka and Ollie Watkins.

You can vote for Rodrigo at the below link.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/march/01/another-nomination-for-muniz-/

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It Would Be Wrong – Agent Of Fulham And Nottingham Forest Target Lewis Ferguson Speaks
The agent of Fulham and Nottingham Forest linked midfielder Lewis Ferguson has stressed the player's loyalty towards Bologna amidst talk of a summer move.

The former Aberdeen midfielder has gone from strength to strength since moving to Italy and is now the club captain at Bologna.

He is one of the most important cogs in Thiago Motta's squad and has been one of the most consistent players in Italy this season.

Ferguson's performances have piqued the interest of Serie A giants Juventus and he is also attracting interest from clubs in the Premier League.

Nottingham Forest and Fulham are believed to be considering trying to take him to England in the summer.

However, Bill McMurdo, his agent, insisted that the Bologna captain is still very much loyal towards the club, the coach and the players.

He stressed that for the moment, Ferguson is only thinking about putting his best foot forward for Bologna.

McMurdo told Italian outlet TuttoJuve: "Given Lewis is the captain of the Rossoblu, it would be wrong to link him with another club.

"His loyalty is towards coach Thiago Motta, his team-mates and all of Bologna.

"He is only thinking about doing well here."

Ferguson is also a Scotland international and has earned ten caps since debuting in 2021.

He is expected to be in demand when the summer window opens and Bologna could find it tough to keep hold of him.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/03/01/it-would-be-wrong-agent-of-fulham-and-nottingham-forest-target-lewis-ferguson-speaks/638395/

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Brighton Matchday Preview
Fulham v Brighton & Hove Albion | Saturday 2nd March | 3pm | Craven Cottage | #FULBHA

The opposition

    Another excellent season for Brighton has them currently sitting seventh in the Premier League, though they have struggled for consistency of late, with two wins, three draws, and two defeats in 2024.
    The Seagulls were in midweek action, travelling to Wolves in the Emirates FA Cup. They created plenty at Molineux, but the infrequency with which they troubled the home goalkeeper meant that they fell to a 1-0 loss.
    Their cup ambitions are not over, though. After a slow start to their Europa League campaign, Brighton won their final four group matches to finish top, meaning they have a trip to AS Roma to look forward to next week in the knockouts.

Fulham team news

Raúl Jiménez is still out, but Marco Silva says Willian will return. João Palhinha serves the final game of his ban.

Brighton team news

The Seagulls have been plagued by injuries this season, and will definitely be without Kaoru Mitoma, João Pedro, Solly March, Jack Hinshelwood, James Milner and Solly March at Craven Cottage, but Evan Ferguson, Tariq Lamptey and Joel Veltman will be available after recovering from knocks. Danny Welbeck is fit enough to play "part of the game," according to Roberto De Zerbi. Billy Gilmour is suspended.

Tickets

This match has sold out. Thank you for your fantastic support.

Weather

Light rain showers are forecast for SW6, with temperatures around nine degrees.

Player insight

Saša Lukić wants to build on the excellent performance at Old Trafford when Fulham return to the Cottage on Saturday.

"When you win against a big side, especially an in-form side in 2024, and to win at their place gives us a big boost to finish the campaign in as high a position in the table as possible. We need to continue our hard work and keep taking points."

Coverage

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

Fulham Flutter

Win prizes while supporting the Foundation by playing the Fulham Flutter!

Early bird

Fans can take advantage of our early bird offers until 2.30pm! Full Early Bird pricing can be viewed here.

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: DDWLW

Brighton: WLWDL

Top scorers

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

Brighton: João Pedro (8)

Matchday programme

On the back of scoring his first Fulham goal in our memorable 2-1 victory at Manchester United last weekend, Calvin Bassey is the subject of the main interview for Saturday's matchday programme.

"The goal was one of those where the ball came over from a corner," recalled Calvin, on his magic moment at Old Trafford. "I had an initial shot, the ball came back to me and I got a second bite and put it away. The lads teased me after, saying 'nice shank!' But it was great. It was a routine we'd worked on in training. I went near post looking to flick it on with my head but it fell to me to have a shot."

Elsewhere in the programme, we speak to former Whites captain Danny Murphy in 'The Ex-Files,' while Roger Hillier's 'On the International Stage' article explores a Football Association tour of Bermuda and the Caribbean in 1955 that featured Fulham and Brighton & Hove Albion players in the travelling squad.

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

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/march/01/brighton-matchday-preview/

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Fulham boss refuses to apologise to Man Utd but defends Bruno Fernandes
Fulham boss Marco Silva has spoken on the controversy surrounding his side's win at Manchester United.

Fulham boss Marco Silva has refused to apologise to Manchester United after his club was accused of mocking Bruno Fernandes on social media. The Whites posted a TikTok video of the Portuguese midfielder in pain on the floor during their contest on Saturday, before he quickly returned to his feet.

The clip was dubbed over with comical music and captioned: "So glad he is OK." Fernandes did remain on the pitch and then played in the midweek FA Cup win at Nottingham Forest despite being an injury doubt, though Erik ten Hag claimed that the post was "not right" and called for Fulham to apologise. The video has not been deleted despite backlash from the Red Devils.

"I didn't know this, but if they did it I would say it is not right," Ten Hag reacted to the TikTok. "It is absolutely not right that a club makes such a statement, because it is totally out of order and they were wrong so they should apologise for this."

United have been infuriated with Fulham over the incident and while Silva did defend Fernandes and praised his attitude as a captain, he stopped short of saying sorry to the team they defeated 2-1 thanks to a last-gasp Alex Iwobi winner.

"I am not a big fan of social media but as you would expect I am aware of this," Silva said in a press conference on Friday. "It was a reaction from Ten Hag. When a manager defends a football player I think it is a normal situation. With one of our players, I am going to defend them to the last.

"We all noticed that Ten Hag said he had not seen the post. He was speaking after a question from a journalist. I haven't heard the question - I don't know how the journalist put that question. For a manager in that moment, if you say to me that 10 minutes ago if any club said something about my player, I am going to defend my player even if I haven't seen it. That is the situation."


Bruno Fernandes on the floor in agony before returning to his feet. (Image: TikTok @fulhamfc.)



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1872758/Man-Utd-Fulham-news-Marco-Silva-Bruno-Fernandes

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Silva wants Fulham to be 'aggressive' against Brighton
Marco Silva wants Fulham to be on the front foot in Saturday's match against Brighton.

The Whites boss wants more of the same after a brilliant 2-1 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford last time out.

"We have to be aggressive in some moments, organised in others," he said.

"After a good performance, we want to continue in this way and the three points are in our mind."

Fulham will be without midfielder Joao Palhinha and striker Raul Jimenez for the game at Craven Cottage.

Palhinha is suspended, while Jimenez is still unavailable because of injury.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/silva-wants-fulham-to-be-aggressive-against-brighton

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Bruno Fernandes: Fulham boss Marco Silva calls Manchester United captain 'top professional'

Fernandes was named Manchester United captain in July after Harry Maguire was stripped of the role

Marco Silva says Bruno Fernandes is a "top professional" after Fulham posted a video on TikTok that appeared to mock the Manchester United captain.

The video

shows Fernandes going down and clutching his leg before swiftly getting up again during United's 2-1 defeat by the Cottagers on Saturday.

United boss Erik ten Hag said Fulham "should apologise" for the video.

"Ten Hag defends his player, I can understand that," Fulham manager Silva said on Friday.

"When a manager defends one football player, I think it's a normal situation, I think if it's one of our players I am going to defend him until the last."

The 15-second video, which is dubbed with jaunty music, was posted on Fulham's official TikTok account and captioned: "So glad he's OK."

The clip shows Fernandes coming into contact with Fulham midfielder Sasa Lukic and going to ground.

As play continues without a free-kick being awarded, the 29-year-old Portugal midfielder can then be seen quickly getting to his feet and demanding the ball.

"It is not right. Totally out of order and wrong. They should apologise for this," said Ten Hag in a news conference on Thursday.

Fernandes, who has made 149 Premier League appearances for United since joining from Sporting Lisbon in 2020, was named the club's captain in July.

Silva said: "He is the captain of Man United, he is a player I know really well and he is a top player, he is a top professional.

"You are not a Man United captain if you don't have all the package to be in the same box to be a Man United captain and to be so important."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68450021

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Marco Silva refuses to apologise for Fulham's Bruno Fernandes post after Erik ten Hag rant
Erik ten Hag had suggested Fulham apologise after a social media post which appeared to mock Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes went viral

 Marco Silva has not apologised to Manchester United for Fulham's mocking TikTok of Bruno Fernandes

Erik Ten Hag demanded on Thursday that the Craven Cottage club say sorry after the clip from last weekend's game showed his skipper rolling on the floor in agony before jumping back to his feet to request the ball. The caption read: "So glad he's OK".

The Dutchman said: "They should apologise for this."

Asked about the affair in his pre-match press conference before facing Brighton on Saturday, Silva said: "I am not a big fan of social media but as you would expect I am aware of this.

"It was a reaction from Ten Hag. When a manager defends a football player I think it is a normal situation. With one of our players, I am going to defend them to the last.

"We all noticed that Ten Hag said he had not seen the post. He was speaking after a question from a journalist. I haven't heard the question - I don't know how the journalist put that question.

"For a manager in that moment, if you say to me that 10 minutes ago if any club said something about my player, i am going to defend my player even if I haven't seen it. That is the situation."

The Portuguese manager added: "Let's talk about Bruno as well. He is the captain of Manchester United. He is a player that I know really well.

"He is a top player and a top professional is what I can say about him. He is a top quality player and a top professional. You are not a Manchester United captain if you don't have all the whole package in the same box and be such an important player. This is important to say.

"Ten Hag defends his player. I can understand that. All the other noise around and all that stuff comes because it is Man United. I understand everything - it is because it is Manchester United. If it were Marco Silva reacting in one way, it would probably be finished in 10 seconds after."

Fulham insist no offence was meant to Fernandes or Manchester United.



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/man-utd-fulham-silva-fernandes-32251781

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Silva refuses to apologise for Fulham's Fernandes video
Marco Silva refused to apologise for Fulham's Tiktok poking fun at Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes for feigning injury – but struck a diplomatic note during his pre-match press conference in an attempt to end sensationalist coverage of the social media spat this week.

Responding after Manchester United manager Eric ten Hag called on Fulham to say sorry for the video, Silva said:

"I am not a big fan of social media but as you would expect I am aware of this. It was a reaction from Ten Hag. When a manager defends a football player I think it is a normal situation. With one of our players, I am going to defend them to the last. We all noticed that Ten Hag said he had not seen the post. He was speaking after a question from a journalist. I haven't heard the question – I don't know how the journalist put that question. For a manager in that moment, if you say to me that 10 minutes ago if any club said something about my player, I am going to defend my player even if I haven't seen it. That is the situation."

Silva also stuck up for his compatriot Fernandes.

"Let's talk about Bruno as well. He is the captain of Manchester United. He is a player that I know really well. He is a top player and a top professional is what I can say about him. He is a top quality player and a top professional. You are not a Manchester United captain if you don't have all the whole package in the same box and be such an imporant player.

This is important to say. Ten Hag defends his player. I can understand that. All the other noise around and all that stuff comes because it is Man United. I understand everything – it is because it is Manchester United. If it were Marco Silva reacting in one way, it would probably be finished in ten seconds after."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/silva-refuses-to-apologise-for-fulhams-fernandes-video/

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Silva: We have to be 'aggressive' against Albion
Fulham head coach Marco Silva has called on his side to be 'aggressive' against Brighton and Hove Albion tomorrow afternoon.

The Portuguese boss wants the Whites to remain on the front foot after their superb win at Manchester United last weekend, but knows they will face a tough challenge when the Seagulls visit Craven Cottage.

"We are in a good moment, we are confident after that great reaction from us after the defeat against Villa and now we are going to be back at the Cottage against a very good side, against a team that is not easy to play against. They like to take the ball from the opposition, they have the capacity to have long moments with the possession, they have the capacity to take some energy from you, because they hold the ball really well.

They have a certain way to play, and of course it's a game that is going to demand from ourselves the right timings to press, we have to be aggressive in some moments, other moments we have to be really in a good organisation as well. This is going to be a great challenge for us at home, with our fans behind us. We feel really well, we are stronger in this moment, and of course after a good performance you want to continue in this way.

Just the three points are in our mind, but huge respect with Brighton – the way they play, the capacity they have, the individual players that they have as well. Of course, it's going to be a tough game for us."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/silva-we-have-to-be-aggressive-against-albion/

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Pereira earns Brazil recall
Andreas Pereira has been recalled to the Brazilian senior squad after an absence of six years.

The Fulham attacking midfielder, who shone in the Whites' 2-1 win at his old club Manchester United last week, will get the chance to add to his only international cap – which came in a friendly against El Salvador – against England at Wembley on March 23 and when the Selecao take on Spain at the Bernabeu three days later.

Pereira's return to the international fold comes after new Brazilian head coach Doriva Junior visited Motspur Park to watch the 28 year-old train.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/pereira-earns-brazil-recall/

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Roberto De Zerbi gives worrying injury update for £30m Brighton ace ahead of Fulham and Roma
All the latest team news for Brighton and Hove Albion and across the Premier League

Brighton and Hove Albion will be without their star striker Joao Pedro for both legs of their Europa League round of 16 fixtures with Roma.

Pedro, who signed for Brighton from Watford for £30m last summer, has been in fine form this term with 19 goals to his name in all competitions.

The 22-year-old Brazilian attacker was playing the best football of his career prior to the thigh injury he sustained during the 4-1 victory against Crystal Palace on February 3.

Pedro's goals and ability to link the play has been greatly missed and he now has a target return date of March 31 at Liverpool.

Asked if Pedro has made any progress, Albion head coach Roberto De Zerbi, speaking to press ahead of Saturday's clash against Fulham, said: "No. I think he can play after the national break but not before."

James Milner (thigh), Solly March (knee) and Jack Hinshelwood (foot) remain sidelined, with Danny Welbeck only available to play "part of the game" on Saturday.

Teenage striker Evan Ferguson, plus defenders Tariq Lamptey and Joel Veltman return to contention for the game at Craven Cottage.

They all missed the midweek FA Cup defeat at Wolves, as did the suspended Billy Gilmour, who will sit out the second game of a three-match ban after his straight red card in the recent home draw against Everton.



https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/roberto-de-zerbi-gives-worrying-injury-update-for-ps30m-brighton-ace-ahead-of-fulham-and-roma-4540199

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Fulham vs Brighton & Hove Albion: Preview and Prediction

A resurgent Fulham side host Brighton & Hove Albion at Craven Cottage, with both managers seeking consistency in the Premier League.
Alex Iwobi would have been the most relieved man at Old Trafford last weekend when he finally scored the all-important goal in the game deep in injury time. The strike secured Fulham, who face Brighton & Hove Albion this weekend, a famous win against Manchester United, with the Nigerian particularly guilty of missing at least two good chances during the game.

In any case, Marco Silva will have welcomed the result, which essentially adds to their topsy-turvy, inconsistent season so far. Fulham must decide what they want to achieve in the remainder of the campaign, as they still might have something in sight.

As things stand, they are one of the settled sides in mid-table, as mathematically, they can still make a dash for one of the last European places. But that seems unlikely in its current form. Hence, Silva must take the remainder of the season as a chance to start building ideas on this side and look to play without the handbrake.

Much like Fulham, Brighton are also one of the most inconsistent sides this season in England, as their rollercoaster of a campaign continued. Despite going on a big run without wins, the Seagulls have maintained their quest for a European place, although Roberto De Zerbi will have been disappointed at their FA Cup exit.

Wolves' Mario Lemina's close-range strike in the second half prevented Brighton from progressing to the quarter-finals in consecutive seasons. However, De Zerbi will want his players to re-focus on their Premier League campaign and the trip to Craven Cottage.

Brighton still has plenty of work ahead of them, especially with some big games, which could quest for a European place. Hence, De Zerbi will want results against mid-table clubs, starting with Fulham in London.

Team News & Tactics
Fulham

Marco Silva will be satisfied with his players' fitness, although Fulham continue to miss a few of their critical stars. Raul Jimenez remains sidelined with a thigh problem, while crucial midfielder Joao Palhinha must serve the second game of his suspension for accumulating ten yellow cards this season.

Sasa Lukic impressed in Palhinha's absence at Old Trafford and has given Silva no reason to even think about changing the midfield. Harrison Reed, his midfield partner last weekend, is doubtful for this clash against Brighton and will undergo a late assessment before the game.

Should he not make it to the squad, Silva might bring Tom Cairney into the mould and put him in that midfield double pivot. Andreas Pereira, Alex Iwobi, and Harry Wilson will likely keep their spots in the attacking third, with the impressive Rodrigo Muniz leading the line.

Similarly, at the back, Calvin Bassey and Tosin Adarabioyo seemed stronger as a defensive pair and should keep their places. Timothy Castagne also impressed for Fulham, as the Belgian and Antonee Robinson are expected to feature in the full-back roles.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Castagne, Adarabioyo, Bassey, Robinson; Reed, Lukic; Wilson, Pereira, Iwobi; Muniz

Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton might have been inconsistent on the pitch this season, although their injury list has been consistently long and arduous. The loss of Kaoru Mitoma to a potential season-ending injury will be a massive blow for Roberto De Zerbi.

Solly March, Jack Hinshelwood, Joao Pedro, and James Milner are the other confirmed absentees, while Billy Gilmour must serve the second of his three-match ban. De Zerbi might bring Carlos Baleba into the mix for this trip to Craven Cottage and pair him with Pascal Gross in central midfield.

Meanwhile, on January's arrival, Valentin Barco made his debut, and upon first impressions, the Argentine can play left-back or even as a left winger. Hence, De Zerbi might see him as a part-time replacement for Mitoma if he utilises his versatile talents.

Danny Welbeck will lead the line with Evan Ferguson, who is still out of form as things stand. The forward will have the support of Simon Adingra, Facundo Buonanotte and probably Julio Enciso, who has come back fit at a crucial time for Brighton.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Lamptey, van Hecke, Dunk, Estupinan; Gross, Baleba; Adingra, Buonanotte, Enciso; Welbeck

Key Stats

    Over 2.5 goals were scored in 12 of Fulham's last 15 games in the Premier League.
    In all competitions, Fulham have seen over 2.5 goals in five of their last six home matches against Brighton & Hove Albion.
    Fulham are undefeated in their last eight matches against Brighton & Hove Albion in all competitions.
    Brighton & Hove Albion have one victory in their last seven Premier League away games.
    Brighton & Hove Albion have failed to win their last five matches in London.

Player to Watch
Simon Adingra

The Ivory Coast international, fresh from winning the AFCON, must take more responsibility on his shoulders in the late-season run-in for Brighton & Hove Albion. The winger will have additional pressure, considering Kaoru Mitoma will miss the remainder of the season, although the return of Julio Enciso could offset that.

However, for Adingra, it is a big chance to step into the spotlight and set the standards for himself at Brighton under Roberto De Zerbi. The manager will hope to see more of the Ivorian in the remainder of the season, as this is a massive opportunity for the winger to shine.

Prediction
Fulham 2-2 Brighton & Hove Albion

These are two of the most inconsistent sides in the Premier League, and their clash in the capital might not show anything different from either team. Having beaten Manchester United last weekend, Fulham will feel confident. But Brighton & Hove Albion can surprise them by springing into form.

Roberto De Zerbi will come under more pressure to have a higher league finish than Marco Silva, which might be the catalyst for determining the result. However, either side are terrible at their defending and could concede some goals, as this game has all the hallmarks of an entertaining draw.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2024/03/01/fulham-vs-brighton-hove-albion-preview-and-prediction/

[WhiteJC]

Utilita Performance of the Week: Fulham
(Nominations include Premier League, EFL Championship, EFL League One, EFL League Two, Barclays WSL, and Barclays Women's Championship fixtures)

The League Managers Association's panel, comprising LMA Chairman Howard Wilkinson, Sir Alex Ferguson, Chris Hughton, Rachel Yankey, Les Ferdinand, Clare Tomlinson, Dave Bassett, and Barry Fry has determined that the Utilita Performance of the Week Award should go to Fulham for their performance against Manchester United on Saturday the 24th of February.

Fulham manager, Marco Silva, will receive the Utilita Performance of the Week trophy.

Match Report
A sensational 2-1 win saw Fulham pick up their first victory at Old Trafford for 21 years on Saturday afternoon.

After dominating the hosts with an imperious performance, a second half Calvin Bassey thunderbolt was cancelled out by Harry Maguire before Alex Iwobi struck late to grab a deserved three points.

Marco Silva made six changes from the side that were edged out by Aston Villa a week ago at Craven Cottage. Calvin Bassey & Alex Iwobi, fresh from their AFCON exploits with Nigeria were re-inserted into the starting XI along with Harrison Reed, Saša Lukić, Tosin & Harry Wilson. With João Palhinha suspended it would be Reed and Lukić who would be tasked with adding steel to our midfield in hostile surroundings.

Read more here: https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/february/24/manchester-united-1-2-fulham/



https://www.leaguemanagers.com/latest-news/utilita-performance-of-the-week-award-fulham

[WhiteJC]

Fulham win LMA performance of week award
The League Managers Association have nominated Fulham and head coach Marco Silva for their performance of the week award after the Whites' sensationally beat Manchester United at Old Trafford last weekend.

The LMA panel, made up of chairman Howard Wilkinson, Sir Alex Ferguson, Chris Hughton, Rachel Yankey, Les Ferdinand, Clare Tomlinson, Dave Bassett, and Barry Fry selected Fulham's first win at Old Trafford for 21 years as deserving of the accolade from all the Premier League, Championship, League One, League Two, Women's Super League and Women's Championship matches.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/fulham-win-lma-performance-of-week-award/