Thursday Fulham Stuff - 12/12/24...

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Manchester City could move for a full-back to unlock their best defensive pairing
When you look at the Manchester City squad you can see the areas that do need strengthening. That process could start in January. A midfielder or two would immediately alleviate City's midfield issues. But there is also merit in the idea of signing a full-back next month. There are obvious concerns at right-back for Pep Guardiola's side. But perhaps signing a proper left-back could help aid City's cause. Also, by doing that, it could help Pep Guardiola unleash City's best centre-back pairing. A new report indicates that it is a move Manchester City could be contemplating.

Danny Rust and Dean Jones have reported for GIVEMESPORT that Manchester City are seriously considering a move for Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson. Rust and Jones further report that Fulham value Robinson at £40 million. It is also included in the GIVEMESPORT report that Liverpool are also interested in signing the American international. Lastly, it included in Rust and Jones' report that the world champions could be busy in the January transfer window as they look to bolster Pep Guardiola's squad.

A move for Antonee Robinson does make a lot of sense in light of Manchester City's defensive issues.
Manchester City have had defensive issues all season long. Injuries have hit City's defensive stocks hard. Manuel Akanji, John Stones, and Nathan Ake have all missed games due to injury issues. That has become an ongoing concern for the world champions. But the injury crisis to City's defensive stocks may have inadvertently led them to find their best centre-back pairing. With that in mind, a move for Antonee Robinson does make sense on several fronts.

First of all, Manchester City would be able to move Josko Gvardiol to centre-back if they had a proper left-back in their squad. That way he could continue to develop his blossoming partnership with Ruben Dias in the heart of City's defence. Based on the injury issues John Stones, Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji have faced this season they haven't been reliable options this season. Signing a proper left-back does open up this possibility. Moving Gvardiol to centre-back could also facilitate the move of Manuel Akanji to right-back. Due to Kyle Walker's form this season that is another problem position for Pep Guardiola's side. Signing a player like Antonee Robinson may have a domino effect on City's defence.

The other benefit of moving for Antonee Robinson is Manchester City could potentially sign one of the best left-backs in the Premier League. Robinson has shone for Fulham this season, and it is no surprise to see him linked with a move to a bigger club in the future. Defensively he is an elite left-back and he can get forward with his overlapping runs. That has stood out in Fulham's matches this season and would add a different dimension to Manchester City's play if they could sign Robinson next month.

Manchester City's reported interest in Antonee Robinson is now a story to monitor. The potential move does appear to be a sound one if City do pursue it. Signing Robinson would immediately strengthen City's defence and could solve multiple issues with their defence. So it does appear to a potential move with plenty of merit based on the factors listed above.



https://esteemedkompany.com/2024/12/11/manchester-city-could-move-for-a-full-back-to-unlock-their-best-defensive-pairing/

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Reed, Nelson, Andersen: Fulham latest injury news and return dates ahead of Liverpool and Southampton tests
The latest injury news and possible return dates from Fulham ahead of a busy festive fixture list.

Fulham have enjoyed a largely positive season so far and will head into the busy festive schedule looking to establish themselves as genuine contenders for a place in Europe.

As it stands following their battling home draw with Arsenal, Marco Silva's men are sat in tenth place in the Premier League table and are above the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Manchester United. They also lie just two points adrift of the top six and just four points behind fourth placed Manchester City.

However, there will be a severe test of the Cottagers' top six credentials when they visit leaders Liverpool on Saturday and look to become only the second club to take maximum points from a meeting with Arne Slot's men this season.

Following their trip to Merseyside, Fulham host struggling Southampton on the final Saturday before Christmas and will then turn their attention towards a Boxing Day derby with Enzo Maresca's high-flying Chelsea. Soon after, we're into the January transfer window, and Fulham could well look to strengthen their squad, with a number of quality options - including the odd bargain - likely to be available.

But with a busy schedule lying in wait to deal with first, what is the latest injury news from the Cottagers?

Harrison Reed
The former Southampton midfielder has been out of action since he underwent knee surgery last month and there was an initial expectation his recovery would keep him on the sidelines until the new year. That initial prediction seems to have been accurate and the Cottagers are hoping to have Reed back in action for the FA Cup third round tie against Championship club Watford Possible return date: Early to mid-January

Joachim Andersen
The former Crystal Palace defender is currently suffering with an Achilles tendon injury that has ruled him out of Premier League draws with Spurs and Arsenal and the 3-1 home win against Brighton and Hove Albion earlier this month. However, there could be some positive news for the Denmark international as he is believed to be closing in on a return to fitness ahead of this weekend's trip to Liverpool - a side who are said to be eyeing Cottagers star Antonee Robinson. Possible return date: Saturday.

Reiss Nelson
The on-loan Arsenal winger had made five consecutive Premier League starts before suffering a hamstring injury earlier this month. Speaking last week, Silva said: "The first feedback I got from the medical staff is that it's going to be a hamstring injury. He's going to be out for this game for sure and probably the next game. Let's see how many more." Possible return date: Unknown.

Tom Cairney and Calvin Bassey
The duo will both miss Saturday's visit to Southampton as they serve suspensions. Bassey has collected five bookings during the season so far and Cairney will serve the final game of a three-match ban he received after he was shown a red card in the recent draw with Tottenham Hotspur. Return date: Saturday 22nd December.



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/fulham/reed-nelson-andersen-fulham-latest-injury-news-returns-dates-4904563

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Sampson confirms reason for prolonged absence of Fulham loanee Matt Dibley-Dias
Ian Sampson has confirmed that Matt Dibley-Dias' lack of game-time this season is due to injury.

The 21-year-old midfielder arrived at Sixfields in the summer with a strong reputation having impressed for Fulham at youth team level, but his first EFL loan has so far not gone to plan.

He did feature early in the season, starting the 2-1 win over Exeter City in August, but he then disappeared from the squad entirely and was nowhere to be seen for the following three months.

Suffering with injury and illness, Dibley-Dias finally made an appearance in the matchday 18 when Sampson took charge of his first game as caretaker boss against Peterborough United on Monday, and the young midfielder was given the last five minutes.

"Matt's just had an injury," confirmed Sampson. "He's come back in the last few days and he was down to play 15, 20 minutes. I like Matt, he's a good lad and he's a good player but he just needs an opportunity."

Dibley-Dias' next opportunity could come on Saturday when Cobblers head to Rotherham to face Steve Evans' underperforming side.

Sampson added: "We expect them to be really, really tough and direct. Steve Evans' side are renowned for him strong and he has a fantastic record as a manager so we know how tough it'll be.

"It'll be a totally different proposition to Monday because Peterborough want come and get it down and move you around. I think it'll be a very different game on Saturday."



https://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/sport/football/sampson-confirms-reason-for-prolonged-absence-of-fulham-loanee-matt-dibley-dias-4904775

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Liverpool injury, suspension list and return dates for Fulham: Diogo Jota, Ibrahima Konate, Alexis Mac Allister
Liverpool will be bidding to return to winning ways in the Premier League when they host Fulham on Saturday afternoon.

The Reds were held to a 3-3 draw by Newcastle United in England's top flight last time out, and they currently sit top of the Premier League table, four points ahead of second-placed Chelsea with a game in hand, as last weekend's Merseyside derby was postponed due to the bad weather.

Arne Slot's side were victorious in the Champions League on Tuesday night, though, beating Girona 1-0 to make it six wins from their six European matches this season, with the Merseyside giants top of the Champions League table on 18 points.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up all of Liverpool's latest injury and suspension news ahead of their clash with Fulham, who currently sit 10th in England's top flight, boasting 23 points from their opening 15 matches of the campaign.

Tyler Morton
Status: Minor doubt
Type of injury: Knock
Possible return date: December 14 (vs. Fulham)

Morton did not make the journey to Girona due to a knock, and he remains a doubt for the trip to Fulham.

Ibrahima Konate
Status: Out
Type of injury: Knee
Possible return date: December 26 (vs. Leicester City)

Konate remains unavailable for selection due to a knee problem, with the defender unlikely to be back before Christmas, but he is being tipped to make his return for the clash with Leicester City on December 26.

Conor Bradley
Status: Out
Type of injury: Hamstring
Possible return date: December 26 (vs. Leicester City)

Bradley suffered a hamstring injury in the recent Champions League clash with Real Madrid, but the full-back could be back in the squad before the end of the year.

Kostas Tsimikas
Status: Out
Type of injury: Ankle
Possible return date: December 26 (vs. Leicester City)

Tsimikas remains on the treatment table due to an ankle problem that he suffered during a training session, and like Konate and Bradley, it is believed that he will be available for the trip to Leicester.

Diogo Jota
Status: Minor doubt
Type of injury: Abdominal
Possible return date: December 14 (vs. Fulham)

Jota is on the verge of returning from his abdominal problem, with the Portugal international only just missing out against Girona in the Champions League, so a spot in the squad against Fulham is highly likely.

Federico Chiesa
Status: Minor doubt
Type of injury: Illness
Possible return date: December 14 (vs. Fulham)

Chiesa was not involved in the European clash with Girona due to an illness, but the Italian, who has only played once in the Premier League this season, is expected to be available for selection against Fulham.

LIVERPOOL'S SUSPENSION LIST

Alexis Mac Allister
Return date: December 18 (vs. Southampton)

Mac Allister missed out against Girona due to a European suspension, and he is also banned for the Premier League game with Fulham, having picked up a milestone yellow card against Newcastle last time out.




https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/liverpool/injury-news/injuries-and-suspensions/jota-konate-mac-allister-updates-liverpool-injury-suspension-list-vs-fulham_560325.html?newsnow

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Crystal Palace join Everton and Fulham in race to sign Lyon's Ernest Nuamah
Olympique Lyonnais must sell this January in order to avoid relegation to Ligue 2. Ernest Nuamah (21) is one of the more bankable assets and one with which Lyon are willing to part ways. According to Foot Mercato, three Premier League sides are already showing interest in the Ghanaian, ahead of the January transfer window.

Nuamah almost left OL in the summer after a deal was agreed with Fulham, however, despite engaging in talks with the London-based side, he bailed out of the move at the last minute. Upset at feeling forced towards the exit door at Lyon, where he had made himself a home, owner John Textor publically apologised for the turn of events.

However, since that episode, Nuamah has not reached the same levels and despite making 13 appearances in all competitions, only six of those have been starts with Pierre Sage putting his trust in the trio of Malick Fofana, Alexandre Lacazette, and Rayan Cherki.

Given the financial situation at OL, the club would be willing to part ways with Nuamah this January. Ideally, they would like to recoup the €25m that they paid for the player, although this may prove difficult. A bidding war would certainly help Les Gones get closer to that figure and that may take form.

As per Foot Mercato, Fulham and Everton, both of whom fought for the Ghanaian's signature last summer, could return to the table, and they could be joined by Crystal Palace.



https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2024/crystal-palace-join-everton-and-fulham-in-race-to-sign-lyons-ernest-nuamah/?utm_content=cmp-true

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"Fulham behaved exemplarily" – Heartfelt praise sent to club for allowing exit, Marco Silva singled out
Hugo Oliveira was formally unveiled as the Famalicao manager yesterday, having left his role as an assistant at Fulham.

It is the Portuguese's first role as manager and he leaves Fulham after also working with Marco Silva at Everton, Hull City and Watford. That long association has now finally ended.

As he steps into a new role, Oliveira spoke to the press in Portugal about his journey to where he now finds himself.

During the interview, he thanked Fulham and Silva for being gracious towards him and he had a lot of praise for the London club's manager.

He said, as relayed by ABola: "Fulham behaved exemplarily towards me. Just like Marco Silva, who, for me, is the best Portuguese coach today and who gave me tremendous confidence to take this step."

While Fulham will be disappointed about losing a key part of Silva's team at the club, Oliveira has stated further in the interview that he is very sure about his step as manager.

"I arrive here prepared for this challenge and with a project that matches who I am. It is a club that develops assets and players. If I weren't completely sure of the step I'm taking, I wouldn't be here."

Goncalo Santos has already joined as Silva's new assistant and Fulham look like they've handled this one very well.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-behaved-exemplarily-heartfelt-praise-sent-to-club-for-allowing-exit-marco-silva-singled-out/

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Osmand hat-trick beats Hertha Berlin
Callum Osmand continued his fine goalscoring season with a hat-trick as Fulham's under 21s beat Hertha Berlin 5-3 in the Premier League International Cup last night to extend their winning streak to six games.

The Welsh youth international settled an eight-goal thriller with more examples of his devastating finishing as the young Whites came from behind to complete an emphatic victory with Lemar Gordon bagging a brace on a cold night at Motspur Park.

Hayden Mullins' side did well to recover from the setback of conceding a poor opening goal early on and eventually their class told against a well-drilled and technically proficient German outfit. The hosts were punished for being too ambitious in their attempts to play around Hertha's press with England under-19 international Samuel Amissah giving the ball away in a dangerous area. Oliver Rolke found space in the penalty area and, although Alex Borto saved his shot, Ensar Aksakal made no mistake from the rebound.

It took Fulham ten minutes to muster a serious attack with Gofford having a shot blocked after racing onto a bright ball from Oliver Gofford before another mistake from the jittery home defence saw Borto have to spread himself to deny attacking midfielder Julius Ben Gottschalk.

The hosts drew level just before the half hour with Osmand unlocking the Hertha defence with an intelligent pass to put Gordon in on goal and the winger kept his cool to beat goalkeeper Dennis Smarsch. Osmand grabbed his first goal of the evening seven minutes later when he got on the end of a cross from Gofford, turned his marker and smashed a finish between Smarsch and the goalkeeper's near post.

The game ran away from the visitors before the break as Osmand took control of proceedings. He second followed barely a minute after the first, when Gordon did superbly to seize possession from a shell-shocked Hertha defence. The winger picked his moment to put Osmand in the clear and the striker rifled past the helpless Smarsch to make it 3-1.

Osmand went close to completing his hat-trick before the interval but Smarsh saved his powerful shot – only for Gordon to gleefully gobble up the rebound. Any hopes of a Hertha fightback were dashed within four minutes of the resumption when Gofford's quick free-kick put Osmand in on goal once more and the Welshman rolled an assured finish inside the near post. The in-form forward's evening ended early as he was substituted nine minutes later.

The game remained an open contest until the end and Hertha's heads didn't drop despite their overwhelming deficit. Aksakal was unfortunate not to score his second goal with seventeen minutes to play, when Borto did brilliantly to keep the winger's venomous drive. But the Germans kept going and did reduce their arrears a minute later when substitute Maik Nelson Afri Akumu was rewarded for his persistence down the left flank as his cross found Luca Wollschläger, who fired home from close range.

Hertha made it 5-3 with nine minutes left when another substitute Jelani Ndi beat Borto from inside his six-yard box after excellent approach play from Danish centre forward Gustav Orsoe Christensen. Despite the German side's late revival, this was another impressive victory for Fulham's under 21s, who return to PL2 action on Friday night at Motspur Park when they host Derby County.

FULHAM UNDER 21s (4-2-3-1): Borto; Gofford (de Jesus 63), Esenga, Nsasi, Amissah (Park 45); Nwoko (Quashie 90+1), Donnell; Works, Gordon (Loupalo-Bi 58), Sekularac; Osmand (Olyott 58). Subs (not used): Underwood, Ali Wahid.

BOOKED: Esenga.

GOALS: Gordon (29, 45), Osmand (36, 38, 49).

HERTHA BERLIN UNDER 21s (4-3-3): Smarsch; Berner, Strasner, Matiebel (Greber 64), Morgenstern; Lum (Ndi 45), Ajvazi (Eichorn 45), Gottschalk (Akumu 64); Rolke (Wollschläger 64), Aksakal, Christensen. Subs (not used): Mohwinkel.

GOALS: Aksakal (7), Wollschläger (74), Ndi (81).

REFEREE: Joe Moss.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/12/osmand-hat-trick-beats-hertha-berlin/

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Arsenal loanee Reiss Nelson facing up to 12 weeks out of Fulham action after suffering hamstring injury
Nelson suffered the injury during Fulham's 3-1 win over Brighton

Fulham winger Reiss Nelson is facing an extended spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. According to sources with knowledge of the situation, Nelson could be out for up to 12 weeks with the issue and is facing a recovery timescale that at the very least would sideline him for much of a hectic festive period.

Arsenal loanee Nelson had just begun to establish himself in Marco Silva's starting XI before limping out of Thursday's 3-1 win over Brighton, a match which had been his fifth start in a row. Scans revealed that the 25 year old's injury was more significant than first feared, and even more optimistic scenarios for his recovery would now place the winger's recovery well into the new year.

Even with a hectic fixture list, Marco Silva might well feel he can cope without Nelson if no more injuries hit his frontline. Adama Traore, Alex Iwobi and even Harry Wilson have logged Premier League minutes on the left flank this season. Emile Smith Rowe could be an option even though he has largely been deployed in more central areas, while Nelson's minutes could also be reassigned to Ryan Sessegnon, yet to play significant minutes since returning to his boyhood team.

The injury will be more of a blow to Nelson, who had begun to get his career back on track at Craven Cottage after struggling for game time in recent years. Indeed the 488 minutes he had got in a Fulham shirt were already more than he had played in the past three Premier League seasons combined. Across all competitions Nelson had registered two goals and an assist and had been relishing life in a side who have performed above expectations in the Premier League this season, where they sit 10th in the table but only four points off the top four.

Asked last month what he has most enjoyed about his loan spell, Nelson said: "I would say the playing style. Of course, Marco is a great coach and likes to play a lot of attacking football.

"Having players like Jedi [USMNT international Antonee Robinson] going on the overlap allows me bring out the best attributes of my game. I feel like it's bringing out all the good things that I need to do on the pitch. It's helped me so much, and it's good for my development."



https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/arsenal-loanee-reiss-nelson-facing-up-to-12-weeks-out-of-fulham-action-after-suffering-hamstring-injury/

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Revealed: Why Man United's clash with Fulham next month kicks off at 7pm on a Sunday - as fans hit out at the 'really unpopular' decision

    Manchester United travel to Fulham on January 26 in the Premier League
    The game will kick off at the controversial time of 7pm despite being on a Sunday

Manchester United's fixture against Fulham on Sunday, January 26 will get underway at 7pm due to the Red Devils reportedly objecting to a proposed 12pm kick off.

United's clash against the Cottagers next month is set to be live on TNT Sports as Ruben Amorim continues his attempts to rebuild the club.

However, according to The Times, the game will kick off at a unique and unpopular time because of United's Europa League tie at home to Rangers on Thursday, January 23.

The report claims the game was originally down for 12pm, but Amorim's side wanted their players to have more recovery time, given the proposed start would have been just 62 hours after the clash against the Scottish giants finished.

As a result, with the usual 2pm and 4:30pm slots already taken by Sky Sports games, the only possibility was to play the match at 7pm.

The Sunday 7pm kick off time is very unusual, although Chelsea vs Brentford and Southampton vs Tottenham will be in that slot this week given the Blues and Spurs both have away matches in Europe on Thursday evening.

Those two sides, along with United and several other clubs, believe 72 hours is the minimum gap needed for player recovery between fixtures.

The Premier League is believed to have told clubs that the slot is only a 'contingency option', rather than a regular one, although it has still proven to be extremely unpopular with supporters.

In a statement, The Football Supporters' Association (FSA) expressed concerns surrounding the kick off time, highlighting its lack of suitability for families and public transport limitations.

'The Sunday evening kick-off slot is really unpopular with match-goers as public transport options are limited and it's no good for families with young kids,' an FSA spokesman said.

'When the general slot was announced the Premier League told us it was a 'contingency' — but it seems to be getting used an awful lot for such a provision.

'A big part of the problem is allowing broadcasters to choose "conditional" picks which are then moved when a team progresses in Europe.

'The Premier League puts broadcasters first by allowing them to select such games knowing full well conditional picks are very likely to be rescheduled again.'

The report goes onto add that United will offer their supporters subsidised travel for the trip to Fulham, although fans will be unable to get from London to Manchester via train following the game.

Meanwhile, the Sunday 7pm matches this week come with Chelsea facing Astana in Kazakhstan on Thursday afternoon, before an eight-hour flight back, while Spurs are travelling to Rangers for an 8PM kick off.

The new contingency plans also come after new regulations mean clubs who play in the Champions League on a Wednesday night no longer feature in the Saturday lunchtime slot, as the top flight continues to battle with the expanded European calendar.

United currently sit 13th in the Premier League having won one, drawn one and lost two of Amorim's four league games in charge.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-14181633/Man-United-Fulham-7pm-Sunday-Red-Devils.html

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Crystal Palace, Everton, Fulham vying for Ernest Nuamah
Crystal Palace, Everton, and Fulham are reportedly interested in signing 21-year-old Ghanaian winger Ernest Nuamah from Ligue 1 club Lyon next month.

According to a report by French outlet Foot Mercato, Ernest Nuamah might arrive in the Premier League six months after nearly moving to England. Crystal Palace, Everton, and Fulham are keen on signing the 21-year-old Lyon winger. Meanwhile, the Ligue 1 outfit will demand around €25 million to part ways with the young prospect.

Who is Ernest Nuamah?
Ernest Nuamah has struggled to stamp his authority since joining Lyon from RWD Molenbeek. A native of Kumasi, the African winger spent his formative years in Ghana and graduated from the youth division at Right to Dream. Since then, the youngster has struggled for stability, embarking on spells with Nordsjaelland, RWD Molenbeek, and Lyon.

Lyon initially signed the 21-year-old in August 2023 before sending him back to RWD Molenbeek for the remainder of the 2023/24 season. However, he has struggled for relevance this term, not even managing 500 minutes of game time across 13 appearances in all competitions while chipping in with one assist.

A man in demand
The Ghanaian winger nearly moved to the Premier League in the summer transfer window, with Fulham coming on the verge of securing his services. The Cottagers are still keen on signing the young attacking prospect, which makes sense, considering Harry Wilson and Adama Traore have blown hot and cold. In addition, it is unclear if Reiss Nelson will complete a permanent move to Fulham next summer.

Meanwhile, Everton's interest in Ernest Nuamah is understandable. The Toffees were in advanced talks to sign the African winger in the summer transfer window before the deal failed to see the light of day. With Jack Harrison blowing hot and cold, Everton will need an alternative, with the Lyon winger emerging as a target.

As for Crystal Palace, Ismaila Sarr has struggled to stamp his authority since arriving from Ligue 1 club Marseille in the summer transfer window. So, several candidates, including Ryan Kent, have emerged on the South London club's radar. However, Nuamah is also an option worth considering for Crystal Palace.

Meanwhile, Lyon will look to recoup the €25 million they paid to sign Nuamah from RWD Molenbeek last year. Crystal Palace, Everton, and Fulham have the funds to afford a deal worth €25 million for the 21-year-old Ghanaian international.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/12/11/crystal-palace-everton-fulham-vying-for-ernest-nuamah/

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Liverpool vs Fulham preview: Time, how to watch, stats, news, injuries
Liverpool's form under the stewardship of Arne Slot could hardly have been better as the Merseyside club sit four points clear at the top of the Premier League with a game in hand over their title rivals. Fulham are the next team to visit Anfield hoping to dent Liverpool's nascent title aspirations.

Slot's team saw their derby with Everton postponed on Saturday morning as the north-west felt the effects of Storm Darragh, but Liverpool's fine form in Europe continued on Thursday as they beat Girona 1-0 to maintain their perfect form in the Champions League.

Fulham's 1-1 home draw with Arsenal last time out will have no doubt been celebrated in the red corners of Stanley Park. Marco Silva's team have impressed throughout this term, with that draw and the preceding 3-1 win over Brighton leaving them in 10th place but just four points behind Manchester City in fourth.

Here's everything you need to know as the festive football feast of the Premier League Christmas period begins in earnest.

Key details:

Date: Saturday, Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. GMT (10 a.m. ET).

Venue: Anfield, Liverpool.

Referee: Tony Harrington

VAR: Stuart Attwell

How to watch:

The match is not available to watch in the UK but can be seen on NBC in the United States. You can also follow live updates on ESPN.

Team news:

Liverpool

Ibrahima Konaté, D, knee, OUT
Conor Bradley, D, hamstring, OUT
Kostas Tsimikas, D, ankle, OUT
Federico Chiesa, F, unspecified injury, OUT
Diogo Jota, F, torso, OUT

Fulham

Joachim Andersen, D, calf, OUT
Calvin Bassey, D, suspended, OUT
Tom Cairney, M, suspended, OUT
Harrison Reed, M, knee, OUT
Reiss Nelson, F, hamstring, OUT

Expected lineups:
Liverpool

GK: Caoimhín Kelleher
RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold | CB: Joe Gomez | CB: Virgil van Dijk | LB: Andy Robertson
DM: Ryan Gravenberch | DM: Curtis Jones
RW: Mohamed Salah | CAM: Dominic Szoboszlai | LW: Cody Gakpo
ST: Darwin Núñez

Fulham
GK: Bernd Leno
RB: Kenny Tete | CB: Jorge Cuenca | CB: Issa Diop | LB: Antonee Robinson
DM: Sander Berge DM: Sasa Lukic
RW: Alex Iwobi | CAM: Emile Smith Rowe | LW: Harry Wilson
ST: Raúl Jiménez

Latest news and analysis:
    Alisson wishes for Mohamed Salah to renew Liverpool contract

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson hopes that teammate Mohamed Salah remains at the club next season.

    Liverpool's Slot 'far from pleased' despite win, perfect record

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has demanded more from his team after they battled to a 1-0 victory in the Champions League and said he was "far from happy" with the performance.

    Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk tight-lipped on contract status

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has refused to be drawn on his future at Anfield following reports that he has rejected the club's opening contract offer.



https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/42880601/liverpool-vs-fulham-preview-how-watch-stats-news-injuries

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Liverpool star hits back at supporters ahead of Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur clashes
The Liverpool striker has just two Premier League goals to his name this season with Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur up next in the divison.

Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez has found himself in somewhat of a storm as the Premier League leaders prepare for upcoming clashes against London outfits Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur.

The Reds are four points clear at the top of the table ahead of the busy festive fixture period, with a game in hand on second-placed Chelsea. Arne Slot's arrival at Anfield has gone seamlessly so far with the Merseyside outfit early frontrunners to win the league title.

Liverpool were in Champions League action against Girona on Tuesday night as the fixtures come thick and fast, winning 1-0 thanks to a Mohammed Salah penalty. It's all going remarkably well for Slot but midweek celebrations did take place to the backdrop of drama surrounding Nunez.

The charismatic striker struggled to impress on Tuesday evening, missing two golden chances in the first half. Nunez first failed to get his head on the ball from close range and fired a shot straight at Paolo Gazzaniga moments later.

Growing frustrated with his work, the player ended up dropping deeper into the Liverpool half, only to be scolded by Slot for not holding his position as the target man.

Slot - 'Nunez was unable to score'
The 25-year-old, who has scored once against Fulham in his career but never against Spurs, was substituted after 71 minutes against Girona. Slot explained: "What I can agree on is that he missed a few chances. Then it's always the question: does this have anything to do with low confidence or is this a situation where he's in at the moment?

"I think every striker all around the world has periods where every ball goes in, and sometimes he has a period where you try so hard but you're not able to score. The good thing is that we have many players that can score for us – today Mo (Salah) again.

"I would have loved to see Darwin score because I think every striker wants to score [and] needs goals – that's why I kept him in for quite a long time. He was a threat but unfortunately, he couldn't score."

It's led to more criticism for Nunez ahead of those crunch Premier League matches and the striker is all too aware of the pressure on him as he prepares to take on Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur. Taking to his Instagram account after the match, he posted a photo with the caption 'resilience' and also wrote on his story: "They are not all, they are some. Thank you Reds for your support, we are all still together!"



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/spurs/liverpool-star-hits-back-supporters-ahead-of-fulham-and-spurs-4906052

[WhiteJC]

Alisson Becker reveals why Liverpool's game against Fulham is going to be extra 'special' for him
Alisson Becker returned for Liverpool last night in their UEFA Champions League clash against Girona have missed two months of action due to injury.

The Brazilian international has been a staple for the Reds ever since joining from AS Roma in 2018, with Alisson showing last night against Girona why he is arguably the best goalkeeper in the world and an undroppable player for Liverpool.

With Virgil van Dijk impressed with what he saw from Alisson in yesterday's Champions League tie, the 32-year-old shot-stopper didn't look like he had missed a beat despite not playing in two months and being out injured on the treatment table.

And Alisson has now shared why he is so excited for Liverpool's game this Saturday against Fulham.

Alisson 'looking forward' to playing for Liverpool at Anfield
Speaking to Liverpool's official website, Alisson revealed how excited he is to play at Anfield on the weekend, where Liverpool take on Fulham and face another big test in their bid to win the Premier League title.

Having seen last weekend's Merseyside derby called off, Liverpool will be eager to return to Premier League action with Chelsea and Arsenal gaining more ground on the Reds after their results on Sunday.

And for Alisson, the Brazil international is ready to take on Fulham and to return to Anfield having last played there in October, with Liverpool fans no doubt excited to see their no. 1 back between the sticks on Saturday.

Alisson said when asked about playing at Anfield on Saturday: "I'm looking forward again! Anfield is always special and against a tough opponent, Fulham, they are playing really well this season. We know that will be difficult, as it was tonight or even more. I'm excited to be there on Saturday to play this game."

Could Alisson start for Liverpool vs Fulham?
Alisson starting ahead of Caoimhin Kelleher for Tuesday's Champions League tie against Girona was quite a surprise for some fans, mostly down to the fact that the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper has been exceptional in the last few weeks deputising for the Liverpool no. 1.

Yet with Alisson thrown straight back into the starting XI at the first possible chance, there's almost a 100% chance that the Brazilian international will keep the spot for himself in upcoming Premier League and Champions League games.

Indeed, Shay Given has already urged Kelleher to leave Liverpool after being dropped last night for Alisson, yet based on the 32-year-old's performance, it's hard to say Arne Slot made the wrong call in bringing his no. 1 back into the fold.



https://www.rousingthekop.com/2024/12/11/alisson-becker-reveals-why-liverpools-game-against-fulham-is-going-to-be-extra-special-for-him/

[WhiteJC]

Ryan Sessegnon reveals he barely got to speak to Mauricio Pochettino at Spurs
One former Spurs defender, Ryan Sessegnon, who was signed by Mauricio Pochettino, has admitted that he barely spoke to the Argentine boss during his time in North London.

Wing-back failed to fulfil his potential at Spurs
Ryan Sessegnon was considered to be one of the best young talents in English football when he made the switch to Tottenham in 2019.

In theory, it should have been an excellent fit, given the way, pacy, young players had thrived under Pochettino.

However, instead, the left-back did not play a single game under the Argentine, who was sacked just a few months after his arrival, being replaced by a manager with a polar-opposite style in Jose Mourinho.

Ryan Sessegnon opens up on early days at Spurs
Sessegnon revealed that since he was injured in his early months at the club, he was not allowed in team meetings and was barely around the playing group when Pochettino was in charge.

The 24-year-old told Rising Ballers: "I'd just come back from the U21s Euros and I got injured in that tournament. I arrived injured. I turned up and I wasn't training, I was in the physio room, and I didn't have much contact with Poch or the team.

"At the time he didn't want injured players in his meetings or stuff like that. He welcomed me to the club and all of that stuff, but I wasn't around the players or stuff at the time.

"By the time I got back, I went to England U21s camp in November that season, when I came back Pochettino got sacked. So I didn't have much of a relationship with Poch, even though he brought me to the club."

Mauricio Pochettino was never the same at Spurs after Champions League final
It is clear that something broke between Pochettino and Spurs after the 2019 Champions League final loss, with the Argentine simply not having the same energy from next season.

It is a shame as the signings that Spurs made in 2019 (Sessegnon, Giovani Lo Celso and Tanguy Ndombele) might have all thrived under the Poch, but all of them flattered to deceive under counter-attacking managers who followed.



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/former-spurs-man-ryan-sessegnon-reveals-mauricio-pochettino-barely-spoke-to-him/

[WhiteJC]

Alexis Mac Allister Is Suspended | 4-3-3 Liverpool Predicted Lineup Vs Fulham
Liverpool predicted starting lineup for their game with Fulham in the PL.

Liverpool continued their impressive run as they overpowered Girona by 1-0 in the Champions League with the help of a converted penalty by Mohamed Salah. Arne Slot's side are now preparing for their next game which is scheduled against Fulham in the Premier League.

The Reds are atop the points table with 35 points after 14 rounds of play. They have a comfortable four-point lead with one extra game in hand. They will surely like to collect all three points and leave no room for competitors to catch up.

4-3-3 Liverpool Predicted Lineup Vs Fulham

Defence
Alisson Becker made his comeback from injury against Girona and made some wonderful saves. No doubt that he is starting between the sticks. Right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold didn't have a decent game but retains his spot in the lineup.

Though Liverpool is likely to be blessed with the return of some of their key players, Arne Slot might not prefer altering much. The centre-back duo of Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk should remain intact for this fixture as well. Andy Robertson made some notable efforts and could be starting as the left-back yet again.

Midfield
As Alexis Mac Allister is suspended for this game too, the Reds don't have enough names to play around.

Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch should play a deeper role with Curtis Jones attacking whenever possible in the middle of the park.

Attack
Mohamed Salah continues on the right wing and would hope to carry his red-hot scoring form. While Darwin Nunez remains the striker in the lineup, Luis Diaz might have to make way for Cody Gakpo on the left flank.

Federico Chiesa and Diogo Jota are expected to mark their return but are unlikely to start this game.

Tyler Morton, Ibrahima Konate, Conor Bradley, and Kostas Tsimikas are unavailable due to injuries.

https://the4thofficial.net/2024/12/alexis-mac-allister-is-suspended-4-3-3-liverpool-predicted-lineup-vs-fulham/

[WindyCity]

All this chinwagging about top clubs in for Robinson at January window is getting tedious.  Also troubling if true.  Whatever happens let's hope we can keep him at the Cottage.

Does anyone know what kind of pay he is on?  And, at what point would or should FFC maybe improve his current deal?  Inquiring minds want to know......