Monday Fulham Stuff - 18/03/24...

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Results

Sunday 17/03
West Ham	1-1	Villa

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Jack and Loz at the Cottage - Blog 276
Date: 16th March 2024
Opposition: Tottenham Hotspur
Score: 3-0
Goal scorers: Muniz, Lukic, Muniz
Weather: springlike
Atmosphere: euphoric
MOTM: misunderstood, misjudged and much-maligned, Antonee "Scape-Goat" Robinson has never been far from criticism since his arrival at Fulham. Yet he's never been far from goal involvements either, he has the best record for interceptions in pretty much the whole world and he doesn't just run tirelessly up and down the left wing, he does it effectively and at 100mph. His no-nonsense approach doesn't end on the pitch. In the anxiety-inducing uncertainty of last summer, Antonee signed his contract extension early and then got on with his job. He's always had potential, he's often shown glimmers of brilliance but on Saturday Antonee came of age with a phenomenal performance. Indomitable in defence, relentless in attack. The scape goat has become the GOAT.
Pre-match drinks: the Craft Beer Co
Post match celebratory drinks: Riverside Studios
Post match celebratory dinner (and more celebratory drinks): Wagamama

Don't believe the media who say Spurs had injuries and an off-day. Don't look at the stats which tell you the game was balanced and Fulham must have scored 3 flukey goals. Don't watch the match highlights which make it look like there were 2 teams in it.

Saturday's London demolition derby was a masterclass from, as Marco would say, the first minute of the game to the last. The plan was perfect but, let's face it, we've had perfect plans before and they've gone awry. We've even had well-executed plans before but something - the final ball, the wasteful shot, the casual defence - has let the planning down.

But on Saturday, the only thing which went wrong was that a 3-0 victory didn't feel enough. It should have been more.

For Fulham fans, and neutrals, the first half was very entertaining. It was end to end stuff. Our passing was quick and precise. The short passes were good, the long passes were better. Muniz was already dancing into dangerous positions, Lukic had already taken control of the midfield; Antonee was already the best player on the pitch. Fulham were both unpredictable but organised. Spurs pressed well, but this is all they could do and that doesn't really work when you're on a football pitch and not at the dry cleaners.

But all too often and as recently as.....last weekend, we've done everything right in the build-up but faltered in front of goal. As half time approached, it began to feel like this could be another of those games - we hadn't capitalised on our chances and we'd end up ruing missed opportunities. But, in case haven't mentioned this already, Antonee Robinson was having the game of his life. He swooped in an inch perfect cross, Muniz gave his marker the slip and delivered his trademark neat finish followed by his trademark samba celebration.

One bullet point on Marco's plan must have been, "Don't fall asleep at the start of the second half." You'd think he must say that every week but on Saturday the players listened and started the second half with even more intensity than they started the first. In fact we have no time to describe how well they started it because the second goal came almost immediately. We were literally just saying how brilliantly Lukic was playing when he literally scored.

The volleyed cross from Castange was so good that Lukic only had to touch the ball to divert it into the goal but he did it so unexpectedly well that both Muniz and Willian who were waiting for the cross couldn't quite believe it and took a moment to start celebrating. Lukic had no such hesitation and it was special to see how much scoring his first Fulham goal meant.

We're finally realising what Lukic can do and it's comforting to have a new favourite Serb. People who are paid to write this kind of stuff describe the way he and Palhinha were playing together as a double pivot but we just think that having two attack-minded defensive midfielders means one can go forward and one can stay back, the midfield is perfectly balanced and the opposition never know where the danger is going to come from.

And that's a microcosm of the problems Fulham's opponents have to deal with when the whole squad is fit and Marco's little silva-grey cells are firing. When Lukic's compatriot was our striker, an opponent knew that if they marked him out of the game, we'd struggle to score. But now our goals can come from anywhere. The third goal was a good example of that - Calvin Bassey, not content with an excellent defensive performance tried his hand - er, foot - at shooting and although it didn't quite work out Muniz was (of course) in the right place at the right time to get some body part or other on the ball and get it over the line.

By then, the Spurs players just wanted the nightmare to end. Their subs had done something we've never seen before and warmed up in front of the Hammy End rather than the Riverside but whatever this strange tactic was, it didn't work and when their slightly weird, overly-avuncular manager sent them on they did nothing. It wasn't just that we made Spurs look like they'd run out of ideas, they looked like they'd had no ideas to begin with. They simply could not live with Fulham's dominance.

This is where the plan faded out despite Marco's energetic reminders from the sideline. We could and should have had more. You know the offside decision for Joao's goal must have been marginal because it doesn't feature in many highlight reels but a 4th goal would have been deserved and a bit more composure from Harry or pressing from the other subs and we could have had it.

But preserving the clean sheet was even more important and proud captain Leno and the defence never looked like conceding.

This was one of our best performances of the season - possibly the very best when you consider who the opposition was and how we bettered them in every area of the pitch and behind the scenes too. The timing of the first two goals - one just before half time and one just after - was as good as the goals themselves.

Whilst Antonee was an easy choice for MOTM, Lukic ran him close, Willian's skill and grace confounded Spurs and Muniz goes from strength to strength. And it's not just about organisation, preparation and drilling - as the players celebrated together and applauded each other on and off the pitch, you could see that team spirit plays a big part in their success.

Random musings:-

- It was great to see Raúl again and he played well. Did he really need the gloves though?

- Bassey and Tosin are so good together that it feels like we've got a new Thames Barrier. We really hope Tosin signs on the dotted line soon

- Whilst our players make long passes look easy, the fans in the half time competition proved they're not!

- Whilst we agreed with the sentiment of the Spurs fans' Save Our Seniors sign, it collapsed. Like their team

- Other than that, they were the quietest away fans we've had at Our Cottage this season

- The Hammy End was particularly pleased with weasley Maddison's poor performance ("You're just a s**t Tom Cairney") and no doubt Kenny Tete was as well

- This is a good point at which to mention that this is, of course, the second time we've beaten Spurs this season

- Rodrigo Muniz now has 7 goals in 7 matches. He is the most in-form striker in the Premier League as well as the most endearing.

This season is winding up to be almost as exciting as the last two. Popular players, dynamic performances and goals galore.

We're stuck in inglorious 12th but now only 5 points off 8th. As we approach some easier games with our players injury-free and our form gathering pace it might be time to start dreaming again. We know it's too soon, we know the squad's not deep enough but on the eve of the anniversary of our greatest European victory, no Fulham fan is going to turn down the chance of another night like that.




https://werdsmith.com/p/gDJ3SusANt37NG

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Silva: 'There's much more to come from Muniz'
Marco Silva insists there's 'much more to come' from Rodrigo Muniz after the Fulham forward made it seven goals in his last seven games as the Whites eased past Tottenham Hotspur last night.

The Fulham head coach revealed that he had taken off the Brazilian striker as a precaution after he felt some soreness in his hamstring having scored his second of the night – and believes that Muniz can keep on troubling Premier League defences.

Silva felt his side's dominant display was the best of the season so far:

"This performance, it is right on the top. Our first half was clearly our best of the season. It was almost a complete collective performance. It's difficult to praise just one or two players because, wow, there were some amazing performances."

The Portuguese boss was inevitability asked about the transformation in Muniz's fortunes during the post-match press conference.

"It's a great feeling for me as a manager. I pushed for the club to sign him when I first joined the club two years ago. I saw something in him. It hasn't been easy for him, but he hasn't given up and when he has been presented with a chance, he has taken it. There is much more to come from him too, I'm sure.

On making the substitution, Silva said:

"He was feeling a little tired and feeling his hamstring a little, so it was not a time for us to take risks. But what a performance again from him."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/silva-theres-much-more-to-come-from-muniz/

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Fulham reportedly scout 'exceptional' £1.8m attacker ahead of potential summer bid
Fulham have joined the race to sign Blackburn Rovers forward Sammie Szmodics having scouted him last week.

That is according to The Sun, who claim that Fulham are now keen to bring Szmodics to West London.

It's stated that scout Brian Talbot has scouted Szmodics ahead of a potential summer move.

Brentford are understood to be interested too but Fulham are now looking into a swoop.

Who is Sammie Szmodics?
Szmodics hails from Colchester and came up in the Colchester United youth ranks.

The 28-year-old racked up 38 goals in 163 appearances for Colchester before landing a 2019 move to Bristol City.

That switch did not work out at all as Szmodics made just four appearances before being sent on loan to Peterborough United.

That move was was turned permanent and Szomdics went on to smash 23 goals in 86 games.

Blackburn Rovers pounced with a £1.8million move in 2022 and seven goals in his first season at Ewood Park was a decent return.

Szmodics has absolutely exploded this season though, racking up 21 league goals and 27 across all competitions.

Eligible to play for the Republic of Ireland and Hungary at international level, Szmodics has now been called up for Ireland by John O'Shea.

Szmodics is in the form of his life this season and Fulham could offer him a move to the Premier League.

Hailed as an 'exceptional' player by Rovers boss John Eustace, Szmodics may be ready to make the step up to the top flight.

Fulham may see Szmodics as striking competition for Rodrigo Muniz and Raul Jimenez moving forward, or possibly as a number 10 behind the striker.

It's unclear just how much Rovers would want for Szmodics, but he will surely be cheaper than pursuing a permanent deal for loanee Armando Broja this summer.



https://www.fulham.news/2024/03/17/fulham-reportedly-scout-exceptional-1-8m-attacker-ahead-of-potential-summer-bid/

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Fulham 3-0 Tottenham Hotspur: Player ratings
This was perhaps Fulham's most complete performance of the season. I can't recall the Whites playing better than in the first 15 minutes when we poured forward from the first whistle and seemed to be shredding the Spurs defence at will. After the disappointment of Molineux, I feared that we might pay for failing to take our chances whilst so convincingly on top – but, ultimately, the only surprise was that Marco Silva's side only scored three. What a wonderful night.

Bernd Leno: The former Arsenal goalkeeper was handed the captain's armband by Silva after winning a recall to the German national squad for next week's international fixtures. Leno was distinctly underemployed in the first half, but made a series of stops late in the second half to preserve the clean sheet. The way he celebrated with Antonee Robinson after the final whistle showed just how much it meant as well. 7

Timothy Castagne: Another outstanding performance from the Belgian international who has hardly put a foot wrong since signing from Leicester City last summer. He made the vital second half goal with a clever cross for Sasa Lukic after overlapping Alex Iwobi's burst down the right flank, having sprinted forward to provide another attacking option several times previously. The only disappointment was not to see the net bulge when it opened up for him in the area after another Iwobi run, but Fulham did make the subsequent corner count. 8

Antonee Robinson: When Robinson is on form, he's one of the best left backs in the league. We've long said he's got all the attributes to be a star in modern football – and here was the clearest example of that. He made a minor mistake early on against Dejan Kulusevski but was flawless for the rest of the evening. Muniz might have finished off the opening goal emphatically, but the Brazilian only gets the opportunity because of the quality of the cross from Robinson that picked him out perfectly. That was his sixth assist of an outstanding season. 9

Tosin Adarabioyo: If the ball-playing centre back leaves on a free this summer, the club who signs him will have got one of the all-time bargains. Tosin may have infuriated us at Wolves last weekend, but this was the sort of sublime showing that suggests there is no ceiling for his talent. He was alive to the danger that Spurs posed throughout, making four clearances, but it was only in the latter stages that the visitors put the Whites under any period of sustained pressure. Disciplined and yet ambitious in his distribution, you have to hope that 'bumper contract offer' we reported in the week is enough to keep him at the Cottage. 8

Calvin Bassey: The Nigerian continues to look every inch a Premier League centre back, despite not having played in the division before this season. He was strong in the tackle and the combination of Bassey's pace and power means that Fulham can defend at least ten yards higher up the pitch than before his arrival. Kept Son so quiet that you did wonder whether he was still out there midway through the second half and was unlucky not to score with the effort that crashed against the post before Muniz made it three. 8

Joao Palhinha: Restored to the team, the Portuguese midfielder utterly dominated the engine room to the point where it was an unfair contest for the highly-rated Yes Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr. Palhinha was booked for his first foul again, but by then the pattern of the match had been set up. He snapped into tackles, winning the most of anybody on the field, and set the tempo early on. What was most impressive about this display was how he looked to play forward, with the most obvious example coming in the way he found Sasa Lukic in space to begin the move that culminated with the second goal. His celebrations for his own strike were cut short by an offside flag, but there was plenty to enjoy despite that disappointment. 7

Sasa Lukic: The Serbian keeps going from strength to strength in the Fulham midfield. Lukic worked exceptionally hard in the middle of the park, but made a succession of threatening forward runs. He might have scored in the first half and did finally get his name on the scoresheet four minutes after half time – even if it wasn't the cleanest contact with his knee on Castagne's cross that looped over Vicario and into the far corner. Thoroughly deserves his place in the team – and it's wonderful to see him finally delivering on the quality he showed both for Torino and Serbia in the past. 8

Alex Iwobi: Moved over to the right to accommodate Willian's inclusion in the starting line-up, the Nigerian midfielder played a crucial part in another resounding Silva tactical triumph. Iwobi successfully pushed the dangerous Destiny Udogie deeper and deeper with a succession of marauding runs and sometimes ventured infield to beef up the central midfield area. Played a key role in the second goal, driving at a panicking Tottenham defence, and picking the right moment to release Castagne before demonstrating his versatility by filling in as the number ten after Andreas Pereira had been substituted. 8

Willian: What can we say about this man that we haven't already put on these pages? Explored the middle of the park regularly to create space for Robinson, which the left back exploited brilliantly for the first goal, and utterly tormented poor Pedro Porro as if he was a teenager rather than a veteran. The vitality of Willian's running and his ability to retain possession even when doubled up on is astounding – and makes him a safe outlet for the ball when his team-mates are under pressure. It remains a joy to watch him strut his stuff and long may it continue. 7

Andreas Pereira: I've been critical of Pereira's performances this season – but only because this is the sort of high-octane display that he is capable of. The Brazilian at his best is crucial to both Fulham's attacking prospects and their ability to defend from the front, especially minus Mitrovic, and he showcased all of those attributes here. Unfortunate not to score during Fulham's fast start, he pestered Radu Dragusin to within an inch of his life and also often dropped into deeper positions to receive the ball and link the ball. 7

Rodrigo Muniz: The former Flamengo forward is in the form of his life. His movement and physicality posed problems for the Tottenham defence throughout and he took his first goal splendidly. His pace means that defences can't push up against him, but nor can drop deeper either. There's an infectiousness about Muniz that makes him a cult hero, but he earns that status with his willing running and his bravery – encapsulated by the way he prodded home the third goal even though he knew was going to get hurt by Dragusin. You wouldn't bet on his remarkable scoring run continuing until the end of the season at this rate. 9

Substitutes:

Raul Jimenez: An encouraging cameo for someone who has been out for two and a half months. Looked eager to impress and worked hard off the ball, no doubt motivated by having seen Muniz take his opportunity so spectacularly. The Mexican is one hell of a handy option off the bench – and produced a peach of a pass to give Wilson a sight of goal late on. 7

Harry Wilson: A lively burst from the Welshman after he replaced Andreas Pereira. Put himself about and ventured infield threateningly as well as being unlucky not to have scored a fourth with a lovely effort that drew a smart save from Vicario in the last minute of normal time. 7

Harrison Reed: Full of energy and several perceptive forward passes having replaced Lukic with around eight minutes to play. 6

Bobby De Cordova-Reid: Covered plenty of ground – as you would expect – having been introduced for the excellent Iwobi in the closing stages. 6

Kenny Tete: Good to see the Dutchman back in action and it was clear he appreciated the warmth of his welcome from the crowd. The battle for the right back spot is ferocious but competition can only be a positive for the squad in the closing weeks of this campaign. 6



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/fulham-3-0-tottenham-hotspur-player-ratings/

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Canaries keep Fulham U18s at bay
A superb goalkeeping display from Norwich City goalkeeper Henry Bullen kept Fulham's under 18s at bay during an entertaining goalless draw in Norfolk this lunchtime.

The visitors began brightly and could have taken the lead from an early corner but Brad de Jesus saw his shot well saved by Canaries keeper Bullen. The home custodian then thwarted Seth Ridgeon from the ensuing corner. Norwich didn't just put men behind the ball, however, and had their moments of promise during an open first half. Alex Roberts rattled the woodwork from a free-kick and Errol Mundle-Smith extended Marco Underwood with a rasping drive.

Tom Wingate then failed to hit the target having been played through by Tom Olyott after the winger had seized upon a poor pass out from the back by Bullen. The Norwich goalkeeper then saved smartly from the influential Olyott, but Norwich hit the frame of the goal for a second time before the break as the lively Mundle-Smith struck the crossbar after more intelligent play.

Olyott tried his luck with a curler early in the second half but once again found Bullen equal to the task and the Norwich goalkeeper denied Ridgeon shortly afterwards. He produced a wonderful reaction stop to keep out a goalbound header from Samuel Amissah. Norwich saw more of the ball in the closing stages but it was Fulham who came closest to finding a late winner when a long kick from Underwood found Ollie Gofford, only for the midfielder to fire wide of goal.

NORWICH CITY UNDER 18s: Bullen, Simbai, Keita, Doy, Williams, Sealey, Djedje, Chilvers, Daley, Mundle-Smith, Roberts. Subs: Owen, Ofori-Manteaw, Rowland, Mundle, Corke.

FULHAM UNDER 18s: Underwood; de Jesus, Slade, Amissah, Nsasi; Nwoko, Quashie; Gofford, Olyott, Ridgeon; Wingate. Subs: Varney, Tabares, Schutter, White, Platel.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/canaries-keep-fulham-u18s-at-bay/

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Chelsea pocket £4m windfall after Armando Broja left out of the Fulham squad
Broja's Fulham move is turning into a nightmare and he was not even on the bench against Tottenham

Chelsea have pocketed £4million after Armando Broja was left out of the Fulham squad for their 3-0 win over Tottenham.

Broja's loan move to Fulham has not gone to plan since his switch from Chelsea on deadline day at the end of the January transfer window.

The striker has played just 48 minutes in four substitute appearances and looks unlikely to see much action during the run-in due to the blistering form of Rodrigo Muniz.

Broja was not even on the bench against Spurs and Fulham manager Marco Silva confirmed he was dropped from the squad due to "a technical decision, nothing more".

Under the terms of Broja's move to Craven Cottage, Fulham are required to pay Chelsea £4m if he does not start 10 matches for them.

Fulham now have just nine fixtures left this season, so that clause has been triggered.

Broja's move to Fulham is quickly turning into a nightmare for the 22-year-old.

He had hoped to reignite his career after recovering from a serious knee injury at Chelsea, and wanted to prove his form and fitness ahead of Euro 2024 with Albania.

Chelsea, who plan to sell Broja this summer, had hoped the move would boost his transfer value.

But Broja is being kept out of the team by Muniz, who is arguably the in-form striker in the Premier League after seven goals in seven matches.

The Brazilian scored twice as Fulham stunned Spurs to dent their top-four hopes.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/chelsea-fc-armando-broja-transfer-boost-fulham-b1145815.html

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Man of the Match Result: Spurs
Antonee Robinson's barnstorming performance has seen him named Man of the Match from Fulham's 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

In addition to preventing Spurs from scoring for the first time all season, Robinson was a real thorn in their right hand side, with Pedro Porro unable to cope with his constant bombardment down the flank.

Jedi had already come close to teeing up Rodrigo Muniz once already by the time he bent in his sumptuous cross for the striker to dispatch – his sixth assist of the campaign, and arguably the finest.

Speaking to fulhamfc.com after the game, Robinson said of that tally: "It's pretty good, it's definitely better than the one I had last season, and the zero I had my first Prem season!"

The energy Robinson, and his fellow full-back Timothy Castagne, showed all evening was a key component in Fulham's victory – something that was not lost on Marco Silva.

"Wow, what a performance from both," he told FFCtv. "Okay, collectively we did really well, it's difficult to mention just one or two players, but what a performance.

"When I see Robinson up and down every single match, it's impressive from him. Tim as well."

A whopping 64.6 per cent of supporters opted for Robinson as their star man, putting him ahead of goal scorers Rodrigo Muniz (25%) and Saša Lukić (3.7%).

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/march/17/man-of-the-match-result-spurs/

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Fulham boss Marco Silva makes Rodrigo Muniz prediction after Tottenham brace
Rodrigo Muniz took his tally to eight goals for the season with a brace in Fulham's 3-0 win over Tottenham on Saturday, but Marco Silva says there is still more to come

Fulham's star player Rodrigo Muniz has been praised by manager Marco Silva, who believes the forward has a bright future ahead.

Muniz scored two goals in Fulham's 3-0 victory over Tottenham on Saturday, bringing his total for the season to eight. Despite being overshadowed by Raul Jimenez earlier in the season, an injury gave Muniz the chance to shine and he hasn't disappointed.

The 22-year-old struggled while on loan at Middlesbrough last season, but now he's scoring goal after goal - seven in as many matches. But Silva thinks he can do even better. "What a performance again," Silva said.

"It is not just the goals. It is the way he has been improving and the hard work he is putting in every single week from the start as well. It is paying off right now."

Silva also revealed that he had pushed for the club to sign Muniz two years ago when he first joined as manager. He saw potential in the young player and believed he was the right fit for the club.

"First season was OK for him, I have to say it was a good one. Unfortunately, last season didn't work out for him but from the pre-season we felt he was going in the right direction."

Injuries slowed down Muniz's progress, but he never gave up. Even when he wasn't included in the squad, he worked hard and seized his opportunity when it came. "This is the most important thing for a player and I am really pleased for him."

"He deserves all the praise for what he has been achieving, but the good thing that I see is there is so many things for him to improve. There is much more to come from him."

"We are here to develop him and to keep improving him. At the same time to be demanding more from him because I know it is coming."

Muniz gave Spurs full debutant Radu Dragusin a tough time in west London, but Ange Postecoglou didn't want to just talk about one or two players after the game.

He said: "I don't think it's a game to talk about individuals, because whether it's Radu's first game or Sonny's 500th, it doesn't really matter."

"What matters is that as a group we just didn't reach the levels we need to in order to compete so for us, there's obviously a lesson in that. It's part of our growth."

"They're things you've got to go through if you want to get growth and it's how you react to them and that's our challenge now."



https://www.football.london/premier-league/fulham-boss-marco-silva-makes-28834831

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Jedi: Performance of the Season
We caught up with Fulham's Man of the Match Antonee Robinson following his incredible performance against Tottenham Hotspur.

Jedi on whether it was our best performance of the season...

That's probably the best, for me. Obviously the 5-0s stick out, but to play that well against a top team and keep a clean sheet, win 3-0, everything about it, the way we performed – I think that's up there for me.

Jedi on reaching six assists...

It's pretty good, it's definitely better than the one I had last season, and the zero I had my first Prem season! Obviously people are getting in the right spot and scoring for me, which I'm happy about. I just think I've been playing a little bit better, so I'll take that.

Jedi on the quality of his cross for the opener...

They play a high line so I saw that I probably wasn't going to be able to run my man, so I saw the space and thought I'd put it behind, and then hopefully Rodri or Alex would be there. And Rodri – credit to him – unbelievable touch and finish.

Jedi on Rodrigo Muniz's form...

He's probably knocking on the door to play against me at Copa America! I'm happy for him but I wouldn't be very happy if he's playing against us!

Jedi on the USMNT's upcoming Nations League matches...

We've obviously got Semis and a Final - hopefully - coming up, so I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully I can take this confidence into the internationals, contribute and come home with a medal.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/march/17/jedi-performance-of-the-season/

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Fulham 3-0 Tottenham: Spurs miss great opportunity to move into top four
Looking to build upon impressive victories against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa in recent weeks, Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham faced a short trip across the capital on Saturday evening as they headed to Fulham's Craven Cottage.

FUL: Leno; Robinson, Bassey, Adarabioyo, Castagne; Lukić, Palhinha; Willian, Pereira, Iwobi; Muniz

TOT: Vicario; Udogie, Dragusin, Romero, Porro; Sarr, Bissouma; Johnson, Maddison, Kulusevski; Son

For a side that has been continually praised for their improvements under Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham appeared completely off the pace throughout much of this clash at Craven Cottage.

The Lilywhites were heavily dependent on their defensive players throughout the first half, with Andreas Pereira and Sasa Lukic both putting the visitors to work as they probed for an early lead.

Three minutes before the break, Rodrigo Muniz opened the scoring from an Antonee Robinson cross. Tottenham had squandered countless opportunities, with James Maddison shooting slightly wide – and they were made to pay the price as the Brazilian handed Fulham the first-half advantage.

Having looked so promising in the first half, Lukic netted his first goal for the Cottagers mere minutes into the second half. The forward found himself well-placed in front of his defender, slotting past Vicario following a whipped cross from Castagne.

The hosts were not done there. Muniz, having opened the scoring in the first half, completed his brace just after the hour mark as he bundled home the loose ball following a corner delivery.

Tottenham squander a great opportunity to move into the top four, meaning Aston Villa could find themselves five points clear if they can muster a victory against West Ham on Sunday. Fulham remain 12th ahead of the international break.



https://fromthespot.co.uk/8526/fulham-3-0-tottenham-spurs-miss-great-opportunity-to-move-into-top-four/

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Marco Silva makes confident prediction about one Fulham player after beating Tottenham
Fulham boss Marco Silva has praised striker Rodrigo Muniz whilst suggesting that the best may be yet to come for the Brazilian.

Fulham picked up another win on Saturday evening, sweeping Tottenham Hotspur aside with a superb 3-0 victory at Craven Cottage.

Muniz was the star of the show again, opening the scoring with a low finish past Guglielmo Vicario.

Sasa Lukic added number two before Muniz bundled one home from close range, sealing a 3-0 victory for Fulham.

Few teams will fancy a trip to Craven Cottage right now and the rise of Muniz is a huge factor in that...

Marco Silva on Rodrigo Muniz
Nobody could have seriously expected Muniz to become a sensation.

The 22-year-old only scored five goals in his first season at the club and then only found the net twice on loan at Middlesbrough.

Out of absolutely nowhere, Muniz has started terrorising Premier League defenders.

The brace against Tottenham means that Muniz has now scored seven goals in his last seven Premier League outings.

Muniz just can't stop scoring right now and boss Marco Silva has now hailed him.

Speaking to West London Sport, Silva has noted that he really pushed Fulham to sign Muniz from Flamengo, seeing real potential him even at that point.

Silva added that he is 'sure' that there is even more to come from Muniz going forward, predicting that he will get better and better.

"It's a great feeling for me as a manager. I pushed for the club to sign him when I first joined the club two years ago. I saw something in him," Silva said. "It hasn't been easy for him, but he hasn't given up and when he has been presented with a chance, he has taken it. There is much more to come from him too, I'm sure," he added.

There may still be some fears that this is a purple patch but Muniz is still young and is causing major problems for defenders.

It's not just the goals, it's the work rate and battling nature too, making himself a real handful for anybody to handle.

If Muniz really can keep improving and developing under Silva, Fulham may just have their next great striker already in the ranks.



https://www.fulham.news/2024/03/17/marco-silva-makes-confident-prediction-about-one-fulham-player-after-beating-tottenham/

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Jedi magic! USMNT star Antonee Robinson explains zero to hero transformation as medal target is set for 2024

Antonee Robinson has explained his zero to hero transformation at Fulham, while also setting a medal target with the USMNT.

    Full-back shining in Premier League
    Impact at both ends of the field
    Trophy to chase down with country

WHAT HAPPENED?

The 26-year-old full-back is now a seasoned Premier League performer, as he closes in on four years of service at Craven Cottage, and has taken his tally of assists in the current campaign to six following an eye-catching performance against Tottenham – allowing him to emulate record-setting achievements from former United States international Clint Dempsey.

WHAT ROBINSON SAID

Robinson has come a long way in a short space of time, with the flying left-back telling Fulham's official website of the end product that he has added to his game: "It's pretty good, it's definitely better than the one [assist] I had last season, and the zero I had my first Prem season! Obviously people are getting in the right spot and scoring for me, which I'm happy about. I just think I've been playing a little bit better, so I'll take that."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

While thriving at club level, Robinson – who is affectionately known as Jedi – is about to head off on CONCACAF Nations League finals duty with America. He added on chasing down major silverware: "We've obviously got semis and a final - hopefully - coming up, so I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully I can take this confidence into the internationals, contribute and come home with a medal."

WHAT NEXT FOR ROBINSON?

Robinson helped the USMNT to Nations League glory in 2020 and 2023, so is looking to complete a notable hat-trick. He also has major tournament action to come in the summer as the United States prepare to play host to the 2024 Copa America.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/jedi-magic-usmnt-star-antonee-robinson-explains-zero-hero-transformation-medal-target-2024/blt056bc1afb3ecd2fe#csf1a692f8e38a59a7

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Premier League Team of the Week - Muniz, Antonio, Gibbs-White
With the FA Cup quarter-finals taking centre stage, only eight English top-flight sides emerged to the Premier League anthem across Saturday and Sunday, in the final set of top-flight fixtures before the international break.

Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur's London derby at Craven Cottage was the standout fixture of the shortened gameweek, and for the first time under Ange Postecoglou, the lacklustre Lilywhites failed to score in a Premier League game as they slumped to a 3-0 loss.

Aston Villa therefore had the chance to open up a five-point lead over Spurs in fourth place in the table, but they could only increase their advantage by one, surviving three disallowed goals in a frenzied 1-1 draw with West Ham United.

Two crucial basement battles also took place on Saturday, where Burnley benefitted from an early red card to Brentford in a 2-1 win over Thomas Frank's side at Turf Moor, although they still linger below the dotted line.

Luton Town also occupy a spot in the bottom three with the Clarets and Sheffield United, despite recovering from their catastrophic Bournemouth collapse with a creditable 1-1 draw at home to Nottingham Forest.

Here, Sports Mole selects its Premier League Team of the Week for the four-match round of fixtures.

DEFENCE
Not even keeping 19 clean sheets en route to the Championship title could spare Arijanet Muric demotion to the Burnley bench earlier this season, as James Trafford tried to stake his claim in between the sticks. However, after a spate of poor displays from the Englishman, Vincent Kompany finally swallowed his pride and recalled Muric, who justified his recall with five top stops against Brentford, as well as an amazing dash across his line to prevent Dara O'Shea scoring a comical own goal.

Heroic last-ditch clearances were also the theme at Kenilworth Road, where Luton's Reece Burke positioned himself expertly to produce a tremendous block from Divock Origi's goal-bound strike - one of three occasions he got his body in the way for the cause. In addition, the 27-year-old had a telling impact at the other end, heading the ball down for Luke Berry to fire in the Hatters' late leveller.

Alongside Burke in a ravaged Luton backline, Teden Mengi joined his teammate in the goal-line clearances club with a point-saving intervention of his own, sprinting back to hack Anthony Elanga's effort clear and also putting the ball in the back of the Forest net, only to be denied by the ever-controversial handball rule.

After Sergio Reguilon's ninth-minute red card in Brentford's clash with Burnley, the writing was on the wall for the Bees, but Kristoffer Ajer could give himself a pat on the back at Turf Moor. Winning all four of his aerial duels and contributing four tackles and two interceptions to the defensive effort, the ex-Celtic man also directed a clever header into the net via the post, although his contribution would ultimately be in vain.

MIDFIELD
Further cementing himself as Marco Silva's first-choice pick on the right-hand side over Kenny Tete, Fulham's Timothy Castagne was irrepressible in defence and attack against Tottenham, setting up Sasa Lukic's strike, completing both of his dribble attempts, making three tackles and intercepting two passes in an all-around stellar performance.

On the opposite Craven Cottage flank, Antonee Robinson continued to steam ahead at the top of the Premier League's interception charts for 2023-24. With another four such interventions against Spurs, the American left-back now sits on 69 for the season - 19 more than closest challenger James Tarkowski - while he also chipped in with one last-man tackle and a slick delivery for Rodrigo Muniz's first effort on the day.

The third and final Fulham man to take his place in the engine room, Sasa Lukic retained his place in Silva's midfield as Harrison Reed made way for the returning Joao Palhinha, and the Cottagers boss evidently made the right call with that unenviable decision. There was an element of fortune about the Serbian's goal, which simply struck his thigh and deceived Guglielmo Vicario, but he got himself into the position to make something happen and also had two tackles and an interception to his name to justify further Premier League starts.

Another shout-out goes the way of West Ham's Edson Alvarez, but Nottingham Forest's creator-in-chief Morgan Gibbs-White led the Reds' offence against Luton Town, supplying Chris Wood with a sublime cross for the game's first goal - despite not even getting his head up to see where his teammate might be - which was one of four key passes he made on the day.

ATTACK
It has been a season of frustration for Michail Antonio, who has often watched Jarrod Bowen shine in the West Ham striker spot during his injury absences, but he ensured that the London Stadium had not forgotten about him with a trademark diving header against Aston Villa, before having a second, close-range effort disallowed for handball.

Jacob Bruun Larsen's wait for a full 90 minutes in the Premier League goes on, but the Burnley winger made quite the impact in the 69 minutes that he was on the field against Brentford, firing a stunning penalty out of Mark Flekken's reach and completing 83% of his passes to help the Clarets on their way to a rare success.

Finally, the Rodrigo Muniz purple patch at Fulham is showing no signs of ending anytime soon, as the 22-year-old made it seven goals from his last seven top-flight games with a brilliant brace against Tottenham. Firstly finding the far corner with a crisp strike across goal, Muniz showcased exemplary predatory instincts and bravery to prod the ball home in the second half, albeit while hurting himself in the process.


SPORTS MOLE'S PREMIER LEAGUE TEAM OF THE WEEK

Sports Mole's Premier League Team of the Week (3-4-3): Muric; Burke, Mengi, Ajer; Castagne, Gibbs-White, Lukic, Robinson; Antonio, Muniz, Bruun Larsen



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/spurs/premier-league-team/feature/premier-league-team-of-the-week-muniz-antonio-gibbs-white_539192.html?newsnow

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Fulham 3-0 Tottenham: Rodrigo Muniz's brace dents Tottenham's top four hopes
Fulham beat Tottenham 3-0 at home in the Premier League for the first time since 2008, with Spurs failing to score for the first time since March 2023.

Rodrigo Muniz scored a brace as Fulham swept aside a helpless Tottenham Hotspur tonight at Craven Cottage.

The Brazilian striker put the Cottagers ahead on the stroke of half-time with a well taken strike into the bottom right corner.

Sasa Lukic doubled Fulham's lead early in the second when he finished Timothy Castagne's inviting cross.

Muniz added a third just ten minutes later to help Marco Silva's team to a huge home win putting his side sit just five points outside the European places.

Story of the match:
Tottenham arrived at Craven Cottage eager to leapfrog Aston Villa into the top four with a win whereas Fulham were hoping to continue their strong home form and get themselves closer to the top half of the table.

Fulham started brightly. The inform, Rodrigo Muniz, latched onto a nicely weighted pass before firing a shot across the goal face. The ball then fell to Andreas Pereira who smashed his shot wide.

Then moments later, Alex Iwobi picked up the ball on the right side. He plays a lovely ball into Pereira who sees his shot blocked. The Cottagers retained the ball again quickly. Iwobi once again involved finds Sasa Lukic who saw his low effort saved in what was a very encouraging start from the home side. 

Spurs began to grow into the game a bit and have more of the ball but again the next chance came to Fulham. Antonee Robinson intercepted the ball on the left side and drove into the Tottenham box. The American then fizzed a ball across for Muniz who just could not reach the ball.

The visitors then went up the other end and created their biggest chance Brennan Johnson sprinted down the wing before laying the ball gently for Heung-Min Son. The Asian winger fired his effort over the bar.

The game started to open up more and more. Willian saw a tame effort comfortably saved before Johnson also saw a gentle shot parried.

Radu Dragusin found himself in a super position just before the half hour mark. The former Genoa defender had the opportunity to play the ball across the box but over hit his cross out for a goal-kick.

A few minutes later, Spurs had another sight of goal. James Maddison received the ball from Destiny Udogie on the edge of the box. He then unleashed an effort that glazed past the left post. 

Finally, just before half time, Rodrigo Muniz put the Cottagers ahead. Antonee Robinson whipped in a scintillating cross into the box. Muniz showed real composure to control the ball and drill past a hopeless Guglielmo Vicario. This was a sixth Premier League goal for the Brazilian striker in his last seven games. 

In the second half, it was Fulham who started strongly again. Andreas Pereira once more got into a promising position but saw his cross held by Vicario.

Their excellent start to the second half was soon to be rewarded. Alex Iwobi picked out Timothy Castagne on the over-lap. The Belgian then looked up and played the ball across for Sasa Lukic who finished confidently to double Fulham's lead. His first league goal for the Cottagers.

Ange Postecoglou's side really struggled to get anything going in early stages of the second half. They failed to keep hold of the ball for long periods and every time they got forward, no threat was conveyed that troubled Fulham.

Just after the hour mark, things went from bad to worse for Spurs when the home side had a corner. The ball landed to Calvin Bassey who rattled the post only for the ball to fall to Muniz who tapped in a third demonstrating pure conviction from Marco Silva's team.

Joao Palinha was unlucky not to make it 4-0 just minutes later. Substitute, Raul Jimenez was blocking Vicario's line of sight resulting in Palinha's fierce strike to be chalked off.

The confidence was oozing through the Fulham team in the second half.

Johnson had a big chance to reduce the deficit, but the Welshman could not convert. Then just a minute later Johnson set up Timo Werner and once again, Spurs cannot take their chance.

The game started to die out after the 75th minute. Spurs were starting to accept there was no way back whilst Fulham kept composed as they looked to see out the final 15 minutes and keep a much-needed clean sheet.

Harry Wilson saw a shot saved whilst Werner and Richarlison also tried but 3-0 seemed to be all she wrote. Bernd Leno had a quiet evening in the end. A toothless performance from Spurs whereas it was a wonderful display from Fulham.

Player of the match - Rodrigo Muniz:

The Brazilian striker was once again superb for Fulham. Scored his sixth and seventh goals of the season and took his chances really well, especially the first one. Was a constant threat till he was substituted.



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2024/03/16/premier-league/1176399-fulham-3-0-tottenham-rodrigo-munizs-brace-dents-tottenhams-top-four-hopes.html

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Robinson on his rich vein of form
A modest Antonee Robinson suggested he was 'playing a little bit better' after he was voted the fans' man of the match following Fulham's win over Tottenham Hotspur last night.

The American international rated the Whites' dismantling of Spurs under the lights at Craven Cottage as Marco Silva's side's best display of the season to date, telling the club's official website:

"That's probably the best, for me. Obviously the 5-0s [against Nottingham Forest and West Ham United in December] stick out, but to play that well against a top team and keep a clean sheet, win 3-0, everything about it, the way we performed – I think that's up there for me."

Robinson's terrific cross for Rodrigo Muniz's opening goal took him to six assists in the Premier League this season – the highest by a defender from open play and the most by an American in the English top flight since Clint Dempsey twelve years ago.

"It's pretty good, it's definitely better than the one I had last season, and the zero I had my first Prem season! Obviously people are getting in the right spot and scoring for me, which I'm happy about. I just think I've been playing a little bit better, so I'll take that. They play a high line so I saw that I probably wasn't going to be able to run my man, so I saw the space and thought I'd put it behind, and then hopefully Rodri or Alex would be there. And Rodri – credit to him – unbelievable touch and finish."

The flying full back is hoping to bring a medal back from his international excursions as he jets off to the United States to form part of Gregg Berhalter's CONCACAF Nations' League squad as the tournament reaches the final four.

"We've obviously got semis and a final – hopefully – coming up, so I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully I can take this confidence into the internationals, contribute and come home with a medal."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/robinson-on-his-rich-vein-of-form/

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Can Fulham push for Europe?
Marco Silva seemed to scoff at the idea of Fulham reaching Europe this season, but after the Whites' wonderful win over Champions' League-chasing Tottenham Hotspur last night, the prospect of continental football returning to the Cottage doesn't appear quite so fanciful.

Some of the football Fulham played in the first half as they started the London derby on the front foot was spellbinding. They could have easily scored two or three before the red hot Rodrigo Muniz fired them ahead just before the half-time break and the margin of victory might have even been greater once the Brazilian had bundled in his second of the evening, which came after Sasa Lukic had scored his first goal for the club from a right-wing raid by Timothy Castagne.

Consistency has been the scourge of Fulham's ambitions this season, but quietly Silva's side have put together an impressive run of form. The Cottagers have lost just two of their last nine league fixtures, with wins over Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur coming in that sequence, and have turned their home into the fortress that it became during Roy Hodgson's time in SW6. They have now picked up more points by the banks of the Thames in their outstanding campaign last term and, with five more matches to come at home, there's every chance that record will improve still further.

The success of West Ham in the continental competitions could boost Fulham's ambitions as well. The Premier League might well secure five spots in the Champions' League next season, which would see the top eight qualify for Europe. The English top flight notoriously throws up unpredictable results but the Whites should feel confident about travelling to rock bottom Sheffield United after the international break. The next away excursion after that will be to the City Ground and they also have London derbies against Crystal Palace and Brentford to come as well as a trip to Luton Town on the final day of the season. Improving their away record could pay rich dividends in the final reckoning.

The big difference between this season and last year, as Joao Palhinha noted during his post-match interview with Sky Sports on Saturday night, is that the Whites are now picking up points against the top sides rather than plaudits. They took four points off title-challenging Arsenal this season as well as beating Tottenham and United. Silva's side are a match for anyone on their own patch this term, so tussles with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool – who they have run close on three occasions already this season – and Newcastle United should be viewed as opportunities for further scalps rather than fixtures to fear.

The run-in looks relatively kind and Fulham's squad seems strong now that the injury and availability crisis that afflicted the Whites around the turn of the year has eased. Bernd Leno, restored to the German squad last week, remains one of the league's top goalkeepers and the back four – the first to keep a clean sheet against Spurs in 39 league games – seems to select itself. Lukic and Palhinha have formed a potent partnership in the middle of the park, whilst the three behind Muniz (Alex Iwobi, Andreas Pereira and Willian) each present different threat to the opposition. You could argue convincingly that Fulham's substitutes bench looks as strong as it ever has in the Premier League era so why shouldn't Silva – a serial winner – be targeting European football as well as registering the club's highest ever points haul in a top flight season?



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/03/can-fulham-push-for-europe/

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Liverpool, Man City linked USMNT star equals Premier League record after superb performance
Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson has tied the record for the most Premier League assists from a US player in a single season.

Robinson equalled the record held by former Fulham star Clint Dempsey after picking up his sixth assist of the season against Tottenham – a game the Cottagers deservedly won 3-0.

He also performed admirably in defence, helping his team to keep their seventh clean sheet of the season when he's been in the team.

Robinson has only missed one game this term due to a minor injury complaint and is one of the most important players in Marco Silva's squad.

The manager will hope that he can keep up his superb form and help Fulham have a strong finish to the campaign.

Antonee Robinson looks set to smash Clint Dempsey record
Clint Dempsey set the US assist record during his 2011-12 season with Fulham, when they secured a ninth place finish and were also playing in the Europa League.

Dempsey remains a popular figure among Fulham fans, having made 232 appearances for the club, scoring an impressive 60 goals and making 21 assists in total.

With nine games remaining in the season, Robinson now looks set to break Dempsey's assist record and write his name into the history of American players in the Premier League.

Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea have all been linked with moves for Robinson in recent months which is testament to the quality he's shown at Craven Cottage.

With that in mind, Fulham could face a challenge in keeping hold of the the 26-year-old beyond this season.

The full-back is under contract with Fulham until 2028, though, and they would certainly demand a big fee for his services.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/liverpool-man-city-linked-usmnt-star-equals-premier-league-record-after-superb-performance

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Fulham midfielder Sasa Lukic gets the better of Tottenham's James Maddison and warns he will repeat the trick if they meet in Serbia's Euro 2024 clash against England

    Sasa Lukic stifled the threat of James Maddison as Fulham beat Tottenham
    Serbia's Lukic is relishing the prospect of facing Maddison again at Euro 2024

James Maddison will be hoping Gareth Southgate does not catch a glimpse of Tottenham's video nasty at Craven Cottage.

The way he was stifled by Sasa Lukic not only disrupted the Spurs game plan, it could have wider repercussions with Lukic's Serbia in England's group at the Euros.

Certainly, the Fulham midfielder — who also broke forward to score his first goal for the club — did not try to hide the significance.

'I can't wait for the England game,' he said. 'This was like a dress rehearsal because Maddison was there. I'm proud to play for my country — we haven't been to the Euros for a long time and hope to do well.'

Maddison, so influential a week earlier against Aston Villa, was pressed and harried from the first minute, when he gave the ball away to present Andreas Pereira with a chance. Lukic got stuck into him throughout and, when Maddison kicked back, referee Rob Jones need a word with both men to calm them down.


Sasa Lukic got the better of James Maddison as Fulham secured a 3-0 win against Tottenham
 

Rodrigo Muniz, who scored twice for Fulham, believes he will eventually get a Brazil call-up
By the time a disconsolate Maddison trudged off midway through the second half, still limping from another war wound, Spurs were 3-0 down and their hopes of climbing into the top four already extinguished.

Credit has to go to Fulham, whose ninth home win is bettered only by the top five.

They deserved to be in front long before Rodrigo Muniz broke the deadlock after 42 minutes. Lukic doubled the lead early in the second half with his knee and Muniz scored again to take his tally to seven in seven games.

'I'm not surprised by him at all, I see him every day in training and how he works,' said Lukic of the in-form striker. 'When you play a big team here, the atmosphere is better and every player gets the best out of themselves.'

Fulham's online team, fresh from teasing Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes, posted a picture of Muniz that appeared to suggest he has Richarlison's number in the Brazil reckoning. The Spurs forward is their starting centre forward while Muniz has so far been overlooked, though the Fulham man said: 'The Brazil call is coming. I need to be ready.'

Spurs were so far off it that Son Heung-min looked close to tears in his post-match interviews. He does not want his team-mates to switch off from the pain even during the international break.


Tottenham defender Ragu Dragusin endured a challenging first Premier League start
'You go to the national team but also you have to think about it, you are representing Spurs and the Premier League,' he stressed.

'It's very tough now, going away for two weeks with a bad result in your head.'

It was a tough first Premier League start for Spurs defender Radu Dragusin deputising for Micky van der Ven, but he was not helped by those around him.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-13207693/Fulham-midfielder-Sasa-Lukic-Tottenham-James-Maddison-warns-repeat-trick-meet-Serbia-Euro-2024-against-England.html

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Lukic delighted to break Fulham duck
Sasa Lukic was delighted to break his Fulham duck by scoring in the Whites' impressive dismantling of Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage on Saturday night.

The Serbian midfielder is enjoying an extended run in Marco Silva's midfield and delivered another dominant performance as Fulham eased to a third Premier League home London derby win in a row. His partnership with Joao Palhinha in the middle of the park was pivotal to the Cottagers' success and Lukic capped an excellent display with the vital second goal, steering home Timothy Castagne's cross four minutes after half time.

"I am so happy to score my first goal for Fulham. It was my knee, it was strange, but it's important to score a goal. I hope to score many goals for Fulham. This was my fourth game in a row. Prior to that, I didn't play much and it was hard, it wasn't an easy time. I worked a lot on myself. But it proved that with a performance like tonight and the ones against Manchester United and Brighton, work has been paying off."

The former Torino man downplay the significance of getting the better of England international James Maddison either – with Serbia set to face England in the group stages of this summer's European Championship in Germany.

"Yeah, I can't wait. Already today was like a dress rehearsal because Maddison was there and it's definitely going to be a good game against England at the Euros. I'm proud to be Serbian and play for my country. It is our first time in the Euros after a long time and I hope to do well."

Lukic also told the press that Rodrigo Muniz's red hot form in front of goal has not come as a shock to his Fulham team-mates.

"No, I'm not surprised at all, I see him every day in training, I see how he works, I see how he behaves. He only has to keep it going."



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