Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 03/04/24...

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Results

Tuesday 02/04
Newcastle	1-1	Everton
Forest	3-1	Fulham
		Tosin
Bournemouth	1-0	Palace
Burnley	1-1	Wolves
West Ham	1-1	Spurs

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Nottingham Forest 3-1 Fulham

Gibbs-White has scored four Premier League goals so far this campaign

Nottingham Forest boosted their hopes of Premier League survival with a convincing victory over Fulham at the City Ground.

Despite Fulham threatening a comeback in the second period, the home side's three first-half goals were enough to move them three points clear of the relegation zone.

Callum Hudson-Odoi opened the scoring after nine minutes, cutting inside and slotting home after Morgan Gibbs-White's sublime threaded pass found the forward on the left-hand side.

Chris Wood continued his impressive goalscoring form 10 minutes later with a superb strike from range - his eighth in nine appearances - before Gibbs-White added a third, placing a low drive into the bottom corner.

It looked like Forest had the points wrapped up by half-time but a breathless second period began with Tosin Adarabioyo's glancing header pulling one back for the visitors after just four minutes.

Chances were in abundance at both ends as Neco Williams hammered a shot off the bar and a fine Matz Sels save denied Adarabioyo a second, while Kenny Tete also fired against the underside of the bar.

The result leaves Fulham 13th, while 17th-placed Forest will travel to Tottenham on Sunday with renewed confidence about their hopes of staying up.

Forest hold on after ferocious start
Following Forest's four-point deduction for breaches of Premier League financial rules - a decision they will appeal - they urgently needed to do their talking on the pitch to put breathing space between themselves and the bottom three.

A resilient performance against Crystal Palace last time out earned them a point and left them separated from 18th-placed Luton by goal difference.

Now they can take positives from not only a dominant first-half performance, where they created plenty of chances and shut Fulham out, but also for their resilience in the second half to foil the visiting side's fightback.

Wood's brilliant strike meant he has scored in three consecutive Premier League appearances, while Hudson-Odoi has racked up five goals in 22 Forest appearances - having needed 72 outings to yield the same return for Chelsea.

Forest could have scored more as Anthony Elanga's effort clipped the outside of the post, while Divock Origi - still looking for his first Premier League goal since joined the club - struck wide twice after coming off the bench.

Nuno Espirito Santo's side have taken a much-needed step towards safety with their first ever win over Fulham in the top flight, but they need to maintain this form to ensure it.

Early changes can't revive Fulham fortunes
Inconsistent results have summed up Fulham's season so far, with big wins against Tottenham, Manchester United and Arsenal offset by disappointing losses to Bournemouth and Burnley.

A nightmare first half saw boss Marco Silva make a triple substitution in only the 33rd minute, bringing on Willian, Tom Cairney and Adama Traore in an attempt to turn the game around.

For a spell it worked, but the visitors were unable to capitalise on a dominant period and eventually conceded a third goal in added time to cap off a miserable opening half.

They had to improve and did so as Willian's dipping effort was just off target and Rodrigo Muniz went close to extending his eight-goal tally.

Traore cannoned a late strike off the bar too, but Fulham failed to replicate the heroics that saw them overturn a two-goal deficit against Sheffield United and earn a point last time out in a 3-3 draw.

The Cottagers have lost three of their last nine league matches and their away woes continue too with just one win in their last 15 on the road.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68662326

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Post-Forest Press Conference
Marco Silva was disappointed by his side's first half performance as Fulham lost 3-1 to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday night.

Three first half goals from the hosts left Fulham with a mountain to climb at The City Ground, but despite defeat, Marco Silva was pleased by the reaction showed by his side.

"Obviously the second half was completely different," Silva reflected. "We had a serious conversation at half time.

"We wanted to show a completely different performance and we scored an early goal which was important for us.

"In terms of a reaction we also had one off the crossbar, one of the post. We had some other chances as well.

"They had one or two moments as well but scoring that second goal for us could have meant everything.

"The reaction was there in the second half but that doesn't matter because the performance in the first half leaves us with nothing to be pleased with.

"Normally we are a team that creates chances. Even though we were not at our best level we kept creating chances.

"Football is not just about creating chances, we have to be solid."

With thirty minutes on the clock, the Head Coach rang the changes to look to alter the trajectory of the game tactically.

Despite the changes, Marco was quick to point out the changes were aimed to keep possession and not down to individual performance.

"I wanted to see a reaction," he said. "I want to be clear it was not the fault of the players who came off.

"In that moment if I could have changed more, I would have.

"I do not want to highlight those three players, it was not their fault.

"At that moment I wanted to keep more of the ball & with Tom Cairney & Willian they are able to do that.

"I wanted to create some one v ones on the right-hand side and Adama is able to do that."

With the defeat, Fulham have now conceded six goals in two games and Marco was quick to acknowledge a touch of inconsistency defensively.

"Yes, it's concerning," Silva stated. "It is something that has not allowed us to be higher up the table.

"The way we have conceded some goals. We have been inconsistent to be honest."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/april/02/post-forest-press-conference/

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Fulham lose at Forest despite second-half rally
Fulham produced a rousing second-half performance at the City Ground but paid the price for conceding three goals before the interval.

Callum Hudson-Odoi, Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White scored to seemingly put relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest in total command.

But Fulham were radically better after half-time and peppered the hosts' goal – hitting the woodwork twice – after Tosin Adarabioyo reduced the deficit early in the second half.

Hudson-Odoi opened the scoring by firing into the bottom corner after being superbly set up by Gibbs-White.

Worse followed for Fulham when keeper Bernd Leno was flat-footed and unable to keep out Wood's 25-yard effort.

The Whites were so bad that boss Marco Silva made a triple substitution on 33 minutes, hooking Sasa Lukic, Harry Wilson and Alex Iwobi and sending on Tom Cairney, Willian and Adama Traore.

The changes initially made very little difference – and Gibbs-White made it 3-0 with a cool finish after being put in on goal by Danilo.

After Tosin headed in from Andreas Pereira's corner, Forest almost added a fourth when Neco Williams' deflected strike hit the bar.

However, apart from that it was mostly one-way traffic in the second half, with Fulham putting the hosts under sustained pressure.

Tosin would have scored again but for a superb save from keeper Matz Sels – and the resulting corner was headed against the bar by Kenny Tete.

And in stoppage time, Traore fired against the outside of the post from an acute angle.
Fulham: Leno, Tete, Bassey, Adarabioyo, Robinson, Palhinha (Reed 71), Lukic (Cairney 33), Pereira (De Cordova-Reid 71), Wilson (Willian 33), Iwobi (Traore 33), Muniz.
Subs not used: Rodak, Jiminez, Ream, Castagne.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-lose-at-forest-despite-second-half-rally

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Nottingham Forest 3-1 Fulham - Forest run riot with early flourish to secure massive win over Fulham
A stunning performance from Nottingham Forest at the City Ground saw them run out 3-1 winners over a hapless Fulham to secure a huge win in their push for survival. Goals from Callum Hudson-Odoi, Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White put Forest into a commanding position with Fulham manager Marco Silva making a triple substitution within the first-half.

Morgan Gibbs-White led the charge as Nottingham Forest boosted their survival hopes with an impressive 3-1 victory over Fulham at the City Ground.

The hosts made a rampant start with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Chris Wood putting Nuno Espirito Santo's men two up inside 19 minutes.

Marco Silva could not hide his fury and dismay on the touchline and made an extraordinary triple change after just 33 minutes.

It made little difference initially as the hosts netted a third goal on the stroke of half-time when Gibbs-White coolly slotted into the corner following a neat one-two with Danilo.

Silva would have demanded a response from his team in the second half and he got one within four minutes of the restart as Tosin Adarabioyo nodded in a left-wing corner.

Both sides then took turns to attack in a frenetic encounter with Neco Williams and Kenny Tete rattling the woodwork at either end.

Fulham were a major threat in a real contrast to their tepid first-half display but could not find a second goal to threaten a sensational comeback.

The result moves Forest three points clear of the drop zone having played a game more than 18th-placed Luton Town, who visit Arsenal on Wednesday night. Fulham remain 12th despite another dismal performance on their travels.

Next up, Fulham host Newcastle on Saturday. Forest visit Tottenham on Sunday.



https://www.tntsports.co.uk/football/premier-league/2023-2024/nottingham-forest-fulham-premier-league-live_sto10086954/story.shtml

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Fulham see away-day woes continue in Nottingham Forest reality check
A rare triple first-half change from Marco Silva fails to pay off on a tough night at the City Ground

On a night when Nottingham Forest pulled further clear of the relegation zone, Fulham were force-fed a brutal and bruising reminder of their woeful form away from home.

Only Sheffield United have won fewer Premier League away games this season than Fulham's two victories on their travels. A third was never forthcoming here as Forest blew them away with a 3-1 win that bluntly halted the Cottagers' fine recent form.

Fulham have beaten Manchester United and Tottenham in the last two months, but only when chasing the game at 3-0 down in the second half did they look remotely capable of such results.

Marco Silva said this week that Fulham are a better team than when they hammered Forest and West Ham, both by 5-0 scorelines, at Craven Cottage within the space of four days in December. After this performance, that case is far less compelling.

It took relegation-threatened Forest nine minutes to break a short-lived deadlock, and Fulham will have felt a particular frustration at the scorer. Callum Hudson-Odoi, whom they twice bid for in the summer before losing out to Forest, with a fine goal and fierce finish.

Then, for 10 minutes, Forest gave Fulham a textbook schooling in keeping the ball — the home fans at the City Ground cheering every pass as though it was a collector's item.

Then, a genuine collector's item: a high-profile error from Fulham's goalkeeper and captain, Bernd Leno. He lost his bearings and Chris Wood struck from range, the ball bending into the corner with Leno unmoved. 2-0 Forest, 19 minutes on the clock.

Silva rang the changes, astonishingly making a triple substitution in the 33rd minute as Willian, Tom Cairney and Adama Traore replaced Sasa Lukic, Alex Iwobi and Harry Wilson. A hell of a roll of the dice.

Fulham's hold of possession increased, but their threat did not. Soon enough, Morgan Gibbs-White made good on a stellar individual performance as he followed a cute one-two with Danilo by stroking Forest into a three-goal lead.

Unable to produce a worse display than they had before the interval, the visitors were much improved in the second half, scoring early when Andreas Pereira's corner was glanced in by Tosin Adarabioyo.

Fulham were beaten here though by a side who simply craved these three points much more keenly than they did.

Calvin Bassey's header forced a remarkable reaching save by Matz Sels, Kenny Tete nodded against the crossbar, Traore fired against the post, and the points were Forest's. Deservedly.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-nottingham-forest-marco-silva-b1149035.html

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Kieran Trippier ruled out of Newcastle's weekend game at Fulham
EDDIE HOWE admits Kieran Trippier will not be available for Saturday's trip to Fulham, and has confirmed Tino Livramento and Miguel Almiron are both set to be sidelined for around a month.

 It was hoped Trippier would be able to return from a calf injury in either Saturday's win over West Ham or this evening's 1-1 draw with Everton.

However, the England international did not feature in the squad for either game and will also be absent when Newcastle head to Craven Cottage at the weekend.

 Livramento and Almiron will also miss the game with Fulham after suffering injuries during the weekend win over West Ham, with the pair expected to be unavailable for the rest of the month.

Howe said: "Jamaal's (Lascelles) is a big injury obviously, the ACL, which is hugely frustrating for him and us, so he'll be out long-term with that.

 "The others we don't think are serious, but when you've got the glut of games that we have, it's going to hurt us short-term.

"Miggy will be out around a month, we think, with a knee injury; Tino the same with an ankle injury.

"Kieran is not ready to play yet, so he won't be back for the Fulham game definitely, and that's where we are. All the others continue to be out."

In the absence of so many injured players, Elliot Anderson returned to the starting line-up for the first time in almost six months in tonight's game against Everton, and impressed as he produced an energetic midfield display.

 Howe said: "He (Anderson) was really good. Elliot has been absolutely desperate to play since his injury.

"He's been looking good in training, he's produced some very good performances and I think today was the perfect opportunity for him to play.

"He looks physically ready, and I thought he gave a very good account of himself, he showed his attributes and especially when you play a team like Everton, you need to be very disciplined and good defensively, and thought he really helped us in that respect."



https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/24227367.kieran-trippier-ruled-newcastles-weekend-game-fulham/

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Financial Results
Fulham Football Leisure Limited has announced its financial results for the year ended 30 June 2023.

The Group generated turnover for the year of £182.3m (year ended 30 June 2022: £71.6m) and the loss for the year was £26.0m (year ended 30 June 2022: £57.6m).

The increase in revenue, and decrease in loss for the year, is largely attributable to our 10th place finish in the Premier League last season.

Additionally, as at 30 June 2023, the Group had net assets of £248.8m (30 June 2022: £212.3m).

The full set of audited accounts have been filed with Companies House and will be available to view in due course at https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/03374347



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/april/02/financial-results/

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Marco Silva laments Fulham low as he explains first-half triple change in Nottingham Forest loss
Cottagers boss made the second-quickest triple substitution in Premier League history at the City Ground, to no avail

Marco Silva said his Fulham team failed to hit certain minimum expectations for the first time in his three-year tenure as manager, after their abject 3-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest.

The Cottagers went into Tuesday night's game at the City Ground in fine form but were punished for a poor first-half performance after which they trailed 3-0 at the break.

Silva made a triple substitution after just 33 minutes — the second-quickest in Premier League history — but his side's improved performance in the second half was not enough to avoid yet another disappointing result on the road.

Only bottom club Sheffield United have won fewer away games than Fulham's two in the top-flight so far this term.

"The way certain things happened, it's the first time since this long journey started in 2021 that something like this happened", Silva said.

"When we don't start the game the way we should, of course we are going to be punished. First half, we didn't play. Everything was so, so slow.

"We didn't do what we planned. We were not solid enough, we were not aggressive enough. We were losing almost all of the balls.

"Second half, we reacted, but the damage was already there from the first half. We completely dominated the second half, but it was already too late. Football is played from the first minute, not just the second half."

Silva said of his remarkable triple first-half change: "It's important to say, when I made the triple change, it wasn't the fault of Harry Wilson, Sasa Lukic and Alex Iwobi at all.

"In that moment, the team needed much more changes than just three. As a collective, we were not there. It was a tactical change. We needed Tom Cairney and Willian to at least have the ball."

Silva said this week that Fulham are a better team than last season, when they finished 10th, and that they are in a better moment than in December, when they thrashed Forest 5-0 at Craven Cottage.

"It [this defeat] will not change a single word of what I said before", he insisted. "Tonight, it was completely the opposite, but that's football. We have been doing really well. We have to be realistic. It's been a very good season so far."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/marco-silva-fulham-nottingham-forest-b1149049.html

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Player ratings: Nottingham Forest 3-1 Fulham

It was an incredibly disappointing night in Nottingham for the Whites, with Fulham once again falling behind on their travels – unlike the weekend though, there was no remarkable comeback as our away record continued to be the curse of this season. Here's what we made of the players who took the L at the City Ground.

Bernd Leno

Certainly not at fault for any of the goals and only had one other shot on target to deal with when saved well from a one-on-one from Hudson-Odoi. Probably his best attribute is when he's placed in that situation. Not much else to comment on. 6/10

Kenny Tete

It's been nearly two months since his last start for Fulham and sadly it showed as he struggled with the Forest counters. He was already being cut apart by Hudson-Odoi before he was caught being sluggish getting back for the first goal so was surprised Kenny survived the half hour cull. Was not put under the same pressure for the rest of the game, but I was far from confident of his defensive abilities which as we all know is one his best outlets. His and Marco's eagerness to get the full-backs forward at every opportunity exposed him unfortunately. Unlucky not to notch a goal to bring it to 3-2. We all love Kenny but probably puts the Timmy-Tete debate on hiatus. 5/10

Tosin Adarabioyo

It has been a very shaky few days for Tosin. Going into the international break Tosin's place was as good as solid concrete as fans rightly have called for the club to offer big money to keep him at the club. Against Forest, he was exposed frequently on the counter in the first half. It was clear in the second he was told that Marco told him to defend more on the front foot, but arguably came off second best against Chris Wood. Even his distribution from deep, which is usually effective, was wayward. Needs a turnaround performance with Diop waiting to snatch the place. Lovely headed goal at least and should have had a brace if not for a great save but part of the reason why we needed that many goals. 5/10

Calvin Bassey

Marginally the better of the two centre backs and did better in the second half being to defend more positively and nip in front of Wood and Gibbs-White. Was able to support Robinson better with his battle with Elanga. I don't think Bassey's place is as under risk as Tosin's based on the Saturday and Tuesday night, but also would not be shocked to see Calvin dropped. 5/10

Antonee Robinson

Exposed a little by a winger that could actually match him for pace but that was only a couple of times. What tonight therefore showed was unbelievable stamina as he clearly got the better of Elanga and Williams as the game went on. Unfortunately could never get the execution quite right when he was able to get into good positions and so it was wasteful night for the American. 6/10

Harry Wilson

18 touches and lost possession 4 times. Not pretty reading. He really struggled up against Aina, who annoyingly had an exceptional game against us. Was kind of sad to see him miscontrol a ball out for a throw-in as his last contribution. We know he will come back stronger and believe he is not behind Adama in the pecking order. 5/10

Saša Lukić

One of the players to be pulled early and rightly so. This is his first proper run in the Premier League and perhaps the full pelt of two games in quick succession was just too much for him at the moment. Ineffective going forwards, completely passed by in defence. Would have been at fault if Elanga finished at 2-0. 4/10

João Palhinha

Barely involved and that shows with 2 tackles when he usually averages 5 per game. Forest were excellent at breaking down the wings behind our full backs, clearly the game plan wasto avoid the usually influential Portuguese midfielder. Make no mistake though, he completely switched off for Forest's third. Was able to connect better with Cairney and Pereira around him when Fulham found their way back into the game but it was already lost by that point. Fulham did not need his defensive capabilities later in the game so was subbed later on. 5/10

Andreas Pereira

This was by far Pereira's best performance of the season. Frustratingly for him and the fans that it came in a game where so many of teammates let him down. I've been very critical of the Brazilian's decision making and execution previously but tonight it he was the only one effecting the play positively in both the deep and attacking areas of the pitch. Really showed serious quality on the ball tonight in almost all aspects. I am may be over-rating him in comparison to the rest of the team, but Fulham became an even worse team after he was subbed. 8/10

Alex Iwobi

In my view Iwobi was harshly pulled when he was. Alongside Pereira, the only player playing at the expected level, consistently and successfully breaking lines and getting the team up the pitch as we have seen already so much this year. I don't know what Marco saw that made him think Iwobi was part of the problem. But would have preferred him to be moved over to the right or in the 8 in place of Lukic, rather than benched completely. Not on long enough to get a better rating though. 6/10

Rodrigo Muniz

As space between the Forest back line and midfield tightened throughout the game, Muniz found it tougher and tougher to make any impact. I did think that of all the crosses that came into the box, he did very well to connect with as many as he did.  Arguably should have done better with one in the first half. Likely would have made Sels work after a brilliant first touch later that on was snatched at by BDR but really no highlights to speak of. 6/10

Subs

Tom Cairney – For Saša Lukić on 32

Always going to be tough to pick apart a team playing so deep with a 2-0 advantage, but in that situation, Tom Cairney is your best bet. He showed enough quality on the ball as usually does and his understanding with Willian and Robinson on the left is unparalleled. That area became by far our best way to create attacking opportunities. Did as well as could given the circumstances but ultimately created nothing himself. 6/10

Willian – For Alex Iwobi on 32

Although I was surprised to see Iwobi wrenched off early, Willian was better on that side. His interplay as mentioned above with Cairney and Robinson is such an asset as they were able to carve some openings continuously. Some very good deliveries from that side but they all came to nothing. I am sure he will be back in the starting line up come Saturday. 7/10

Adama Traoré – For Harry Wilson on 32

Adama is a game-changer but did not really change the game in our favour. Yes, he wasbetter than Wilson down the right, but came up against an inspired Ola Aina. Did scoop out a few OK crosses, but nothing hugely dangerous. Best moment was a ripper that spanked the outside of the post that had visions of that Wolves sickener against us back in 2021. Probably came on too early. 6/10

Bobby De Cordova-Reid – For Andreas Pereira on 71

Came on to fill the Pereira role but it was an unusually quiet cameo for Bobby. Only contributions of note were a well-won attacking header that went nowhere and the snatched chance late on when it would have been better to leave for Muniz. 5/10

Harrison Reed – For João Palhinha on 71

Busy as usual and had some neat interplay, showing his clear ability on the ball. Was never going to be the difference maker but brought on to bring a bit more energy to the team, which he did. 6/10



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-04-02-player-ratings-nottingham-forest-3-1-fulham/?utm_content=cmp-true

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Gibbs-White puts Fulham to the sword
The mercurial Morgan Gibbs-White inspired Nottingham Forest to a precious victory over Fulham at a wet City Ground tonight on an evening that felt transformational in Forest's fight against relegation from the Premier League.

The former Wolves playmaker orchestrated an outstanding Forest first-half display that saw Nuno Espirito Santo's side surge in a 3-0 half-time lead – virtually finishing the match as a contest before the first 45 minutes had been completed. Forest were vibrant and tigerish from the outset, utterly bossing Fulham from the first whistle and Marco Silva's displeasure with his side's lacklustre display was illustrated by the fact that he made a triple substitution in the 31st minute.

By that time, a rampant Forest were already 2-0 to the good. Gibbs-White made Forest's opener, turning away from Joao Palhinha to slot a superb ball inside the recalled Kenny Tete with the outside of his right foot to release former Fulham transfer target Callum Hudson-Odoi. The former Chelsea winger was afforded far too much time to saunter inside the recalled Kenny Tete and roll a precise finish across Bernd Leno in the far corner of the net.

Fulham were rocked by Forest's fast start and could easily have conceded quickly after the shock of falling behind from the home side's early onslaught. Hudson-Odoi really should have made it two but was denied by a smart save from Leno after the winger had been played in by Gibbs-White. The second goal arrived shortly afterward with New Zealand international Chris Wood spinning away from Calvin Bassey and shooting beyond an unsighted Bernd Leno after collecting a precise pass from Murillo. The goal seemed far too straightforward for Wood to score from at least 25 yards out – but Fulham paid the penalty for not matching Forest's electric start.

Nuno's charges should have made it 3-0 when Anthony Elanga and the instrumental Gibbs-White linked up but the former Manchester United sidefooted wide – via the outside of the far post. That stretched Silva's patience. The Fulham manager had been seething in his technical area about his side's lack of intensity and hauled off Harry Wilson, Alex Iwobi and Sasa Lukic – replacing the trio with Adama Traoré, Willian and Tom Cairney.

The change did briefly enliven Fulham as an attacking force but Rodrigo Muniz nodded wide of goal when the Brazilian connected with a floated Tete cross from the right and, although the visitors enjoyed far more of the ball with Cairney introduced into the engine room, disaster struck three minutes into added time at the end of the first half. Gibbs-White galloped through an almost non-existent Fulham midfield again, latching onto a lovely forward ball from Danilo, and placed a precise finish beyond Leno to the delight of a vociferous home faithful.

Silva sent Fulham out early for the resumption – and his stern team talk appeared to have paid dividends when Tosin Adarabioyo emphatically headed home Andreas Pereira's corner within four minutes of the restart. The Cottagers committed numbers forward but there were almost picked off at the back when former Fulham loanee Neco Williams surged clear down the right flank and rattled a rasping drive off the post – via Cairney, who was fortunate not to score another own goal.

Fulham enjoyed far more of the ball in a second half that appeared to be almost one-way traffic at times but couldn't pull of a second stirring comeback in the space of four days after their Muniz-inspired revival at Bramall Lane. Mats Sels made a magnificent save to keep out another Tosin header that looked set to nestle into the top corner of the net, before Tete hit the crossbar after timing his leap perfectly to meet Andreas Pereira's corner.

Fulham's plentiful possession proved academic as a resolute Forest rearguard held firm., Traore hit the outside of the post in the final minute of stoppage time, but the result was a foregone conclusion by that point. Silva's side had ultimately paid the penalty for a shambolic first half defensive display that shattered their hopes of making a late push for the European places. The unpalatable truth was that Forest wanted this more.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST (4-2-3-1): Sels; Williams, Aina (Toffolo 83), Omobamidele, Murillo; Yates, Danilo; Elanga (Dominguez 83), Hudson-Odoi (Origi 70), Gibbs-White (Reyna 77); Wood. Subs (not used): Turner, Niakhate, Montiel, Sangare, Kouyate.

BOOKED: Turner.

GOALS: Hudson-Odoi (9), Wood (19), Gibbs-White (45+3).

FULHAM (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, A. Robinson, Adarabioyo, Bassey; Palhinha (Reed 71), Lukic (Cairney 33); Wilson (Traore 33), Iwobi (Willian 33), Pereira (De Cordova-Reid 71); Muniz. Subs (not used): Rodak, Castagne, Ream, Jimenez.

GOAL: Adarabioyo (49).

REFEREE: Michael Oliver (Tyne and Wear)

ATTENDANCE: 29,907



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/04/gibbs-white-puts-fulham-to-the-sword/

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Silva savages first half performance
Marco Silva bemoaned Fulham's shambolic first-half display as the White succumbed to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest at the City Ground this evening.

The game was over as a contest by the end of the first half as Forest flew into a three-goal lead with Callum Hudson-Odoi, Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White giving the home side an insurmountable 3-0 advantage by the break. Silva's disenchantment with Fulham's feeble display was summed up when he made a triple substitution after just 33 minutes.

"I wanted to see a reaction. I want to be clear it was not the fault of the players who came off. In that moment if I could have changed more, I would have. I do not want to highlight those three players, it was not their fault. At that moment I wanted to keep more of the ball & with Tom Cairney and Willian they are able to do that.  I wanted to create some one v ones on the right-hand side and Adama is able to do that."

The Fulham head coach revealed the gravity of his half-time team talk:

"We had a serious conversation at half time. We wanted to show a completely different performance and we scored an early goal which was important for us. In terms of a reaction we also had one off the crossbar, one of the post. We had some other chances as well. They had one or two moments as well but scoring that second goal for us could have meant everything.

The reaction was there in the second half but that doesn't matter because the performance in the first half leaves us with nothing to be pleased with. Normally we are a team that creates chances. Even though we were not at our best level we kept creating chances. Football is not just about creating chances, we have to be solid."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/04/silva-savages-first-half-performance/

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Newcastle United star ruled out for six weeks as £53m duo unavailable v Fulham & Tottenham Hotspur
Newcastle United were without 12 senior players for the 1-1 draw against Everton at St James' Park.

Newcastle United will remain without several key players for Saturday's Premier League trip to Fulham (kick-off 3pm).

Twelve first-team players missed the 1-1 draw at home to Everton on Tuesday, a game where Alexander Isak opened the scoring early on only to be denied three points by Dominic Calvert-Lewin's 88th minute penalty.

While Anthony Gordon will return from his one-match suspension this weekend, the injury situation remains bleak.

Having already confirmed that Jamaal Lascelles will be sidelined for six to nine months with an ACL injury, United boss Eddie Howe has revealed a timescale for Tino Livramento and Miguel Almiron.

Both players were forced off in the second-half against West Ham United last Saturday and are set to be out for a month, meaning they won't return until the final three fixture against Burnley, Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford.

Howe said: "Jamaal's is a big injury. The ACL is hugely frustrating for him and us so he'll be out long-term. The others we don't think are serious but when you have a glut of games like we have it's going to hurt us short-term.

"Miggy, we think will be out for around a month with a knee injury, Tino the same with an ankle injury."

With Livramento and Kieran Trippier absent against the Everton, Emil Krafth started at right-back and in turn made his first Premier League start in almost two years.

And the Sweden international will likely retain his spot at Craven Cottage with Trippier already ruled out. The 33-year-old's calf injury, sustained in the 3-0 win over Wolves on March 2, has turned into a six week layoff, although that will increase if he doesn't return for the visit of Tottenham Hotspur on April 13.

"Kieran's not ready to play yet so he won't be back for the Fulham game," Howe added.

Here's Newcastle United's 11-man injury list in full:

1. Sandro Tonali - banned
Tonali is suspended from football until August 2024 following an investigation into illegal betting activity. Possible return date: August 2024.

2. Joelinton - thigh
Joelinton underwent thigh surgery in January and won't return until May at the earliest. Possible return date: May 2024.

3. Callim Wilson - pectoral muscle
The Newcastle No.9 underwent surgery on his pectoral muscle and won't return until the latter part of the season. Possible return date: April/ May 2024.

4. Nick Pope - shoulder
Pope dislocated his shoulder in the Premier League win over Manchester United and won't return until late April. Possible return date: Sheffield United (H) 27/04.

5. Sven Botman - ACL
The Dutchman has been ruled out for six to nine months after undergoing surgery on his knee. Possible return date: December 2024.

6. Jamaal Lascelles - ACL
Lascelles sustained an ACL injury against West Ham and will be sidelined for six to nine months. Possible return date: December 2024.

7. Lewis Miley - back
Newcastle are seeking specialist advice on a back injury for 17-year-old Miley. Possible return date: TBC

8. Matt Targett - Achilles
Targett is sidelined with an Achilles issue having only just returned from four months out. Possible return date: TBC

9. Tino Livramento - ankle
Livramento missed the FA Cup exit to Man City a fortnight ago with an ankle knock and sustained a similar injury against West Ham. Possible return date: Burnley (A) 04/05

10. Kieran Trippier - calf
The England international has missed the last four matches with a calf injury and won't return against Fulham this weekend. Possible return date: Tottenham Hotspur (H) 13/04.

11. Miguel Almiron - knee
Almiron was introduced as a substitute against West Ham but lasted just 10 minutes after picking up a knee injury. Possible return date: Burnley (A) 04/05



https://www.newcastleworld.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/newcastle-united-star-ruled-out-for-six-weeks-as-ps53m-duo-unavailable-v-fulham-tottenham-hotspur-4577309

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Nottingham Forest 3-1 Fulham: Player ratings
This was another painful performance and a woeful defensive display. It also looked like the angriest Marco Silva has ever appeared on the touchline during what have largely been good times since he took over as Fulham boss – and the Portuguese head coach admitted afterwards that he would have been tempted to make even more changes than the three he implemented after 33 minutes because the Whites had fallen so far below the standards he has set. You couldn't disagree.

Bernd Leno: Just like Saturday at Sheffield United, there was little Leno could do for any of the Nottingham Forest goals. Three times he tried to come off his line to reduce the danger but the problems were elsewhere in a feeble Fulham defence. The German goalkeeper did make a fine reaction save when Callum Hudson-Odoi stormed through shortly after giving the home side the lead. It felt like that could give the defence some time to organise themselves, but that was a forlorn hope. 6

Kenny Tete: This certainly wasn't the kind of performance the Dutch defender needed to earn his place back from Timothy Castagne. Tete's first start for two months was dreadful. Not only was burned by the pace of Hudson-Odoi but he left the winger cut inside for his goal, making the finish across Leno so much easier. He could easily have been hooked around the half hour mark. Somehow survived and was unfortunate not to score with a late header from a corner that thumped the crossbar, but this was an night to forget. 5

Antonee Robinson: A disappointing night for the American largely because his crossing was erratic when he got into the final third. Robinson was the most reliable of Fulham's back four – although after an error-strewn evening that's definitely damning him with feint praise. Did well up against Anthony Elanga, who beat him a couple of times in a footrace, and Neco Williams but it felt like he was always fighting a losing battle – because he was. 6

Tosin Adarabioyo: Appalling abject. After the aberration that sparked Sheffield United into life at Bramall Lane over the weekend, Tosin might have been fortunate to keep his place but this was another shocking showing. He looked to be running in treacle and was regularly out of position as well as unable to intervene when Forest broke with what looked like blistering pace. Struggled to shackle Chris Wood as well as frequently hitting wayward passes. Scored a fine header in the second half – and would have another one but for a brilliant save from Mats Sels – but his primary duty is keeping balls out of the other net. 4

Calvin Bassey: Not the Nigerian's best night. He was a bit better than Tosin and brought a bit more physicality to the battle with Wood and the mercurial Gibbs-White, although not when the New Zealander was ridiculously allowed to turn for the critical second goal. Utilised the ball well but was slow to react to situations in the penalty area and seemed paralysed by the speed of the home side's counter attacks – especially in the first half. For someone so dominant in recent weeks, this was an alarming reprise of his early performances in a Fulham shirt. 5

Joao Palhinha: The Portuguese tough tackler was missing in action tonight. He was completely bossed by the brilliance of Gibbs-White, who set the tone by darting away from him in the opening minute and spun him inside out before setting up the opening goal for Callum Hudson-Odoi. Strangely subdued in the tackle and was nowhere to be seen as Forest worked one-twos through the middle of the pitch for the third goal that gave Fulham a mountain to climb at the end of the first half. It was a surprise he stayed on as long as he did. 5

Sasa Lukic: The Serbian looked rather like a rabbit lost in the headlights. The game passed him by in central midfield: there was little industry or endeavour and, like a number of Fulham players, a lack of challenges were tackles seemed to be required. Left Elanga completely free when the winger found space in the box before striking the outside of the post with a low shot. Had to be removed from the action in order for the Whites to get anything approaching a foothold in midfield. 4

Harry Wilson: Wilson's withdrawal might have been the harshest of the three but that's not to say it wasn't without merit. The Welsh winger made little to no impression against former Fulham full back Ola Aina and hardly looked like a former Derby player out to prove a point at the City Ground. Aina easily won that battle hands down, dispossessing Wilson far too easily at a time when the visitors badly needed to hold the ball high up the pitch, and soon he was heading off early too. 4

Alex Iwobi: Iwobi was slow to get up to the pace of play, sloppy in possession and didn't affect proceedings much from the left flank. He looked to be the target of Silva's ire early on as one of the closest Fulham players to the dug out – and perhaps that counted against him when it came time for the head coach to weigh up how to change things. He's never shirked a challenge but drastic intervention was needed or it could have been much, much worse. 4

Andreas Pereira: I felt this was one of Pereira's strongest performances of the season – even if the playmaker had scraps to feed off for much of his time on the field. He battled hard, dropping deep into spaces that other team-mates had vacated to get Fulham on the ball, and tried to make things happen. Put in two sublime crosses from the flanks in the first half and tried a couple of shots from distance before delivering the corner that threatened to get Fulham back into it after the break. It wasn't to be – but you couldn't fault his desire. 7

Rodrigo Muniz: After his Bramall Lane brilliance, Forest had clearly got the memo about the need to shut down the Brazilian. He was hassled the harried by the home defence throughout and might have done better with two first half headers from Pereira crosses, but that rather summed up a pitiful first half. One brilliant touch in the penalty area set up a superb chance for Bobby De Cordova-Reid but the substitute snatched a shot that you felt an in-form Muniz would have gobbled up with glee. A tricky night, but he wasn't the reason the Whites were in such a hole. 6

Substitutes:

Tom Cairney: Steadied the ship against his boyhood club and got Fulham playing some football again, but it felt a little too easy for the massed ranks of red shirts to defend in the second half. A couple of times when the ball broke to him outside the box seemed to begging for those lovely left-footed curlers that Cairney used to conjure up in the Championship seasons, but the captain was content to recycle the ball out wide for Robinson. 6

Willian: A strong substitute showing from the Brazilian veteran, who did well to shake off a knock early in the second half after falling awkwardly and kept the Forest defences on their toes throughout. Fulham's most promising moments from open play followed the passing triangles worked between him, Robinson and Cairney and he found space inside the penalty area on a couple of occasions too. Should be in with a shout of starting against Newcastle. 7

Adama Traore: A cameo that promised much and delivered little in the final reckoning. Well marshalled by Aina on most occasions and it felt like Fulham didn't give the space and time to run at the Forest back line – he was constantly having to try and beat two men to make something happen on his own. Whipped over a few crosses but most seemed overhit before he smacked the outside of the near post with a strike late on. 6

Bobby De Cordova-Reid: I felt De Cordova-Reid struggled to influence things in the way a tired Pereira had tried to do – and his disappointing display was hardly helped when he failed to make a clean contact on a gilt edged chance created by a brilliant bit of skill from Muniz. 5

Harrison Reed: Added a bit of bite into midfield but his introduction came far too late to turn the tide of a contest that had swung well against Fulham much earlier on. 6



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