From the Press Box: Silva says everyone on same page ahead of window
Jack Kelly gives us an update from Marco Silva's press conference.
Well, Marco Silva’s pre-Forest presser took place well over 48 hours ago, but preparation for Christmas has taken up much of my time, after a busy week covering the club.
Despite defeat against Newcastle on Wednesday, there was Christmas cheer at Motspur Park as journalists filled the room to ask the Fulham boss the all important questions.
Silva gave an update on team news, despite having another two days on the training pitch ahead of Monday night.
"We are going to assess Sasa. Doesn't look serious. Rodrigo & Sess will be out. Let's see with Lukic, let's hope he can be in contention."
Sasa Lukic being available would be a boost, with Alex Iwobi away at AFCON. Harrison Reed or Tom Cairney could be called upon if the Serbian isn’t ready to start.
It’s our first league game without our three Nigerian players, which could mean we see Seth Ridgeon make his first league appearance in the matchday squad, with the 17-year old training with the first team.
The end of the year brings a time of reflection, and Marco Silva wanted to take the time to thank the fans for all their support this year. On the whole, it’s been a good year for Fulham. Some famous wins against Spurs, Manchester United and Liverpool. Not to mention, breaking our Premier League points tally record at the hands of Brentford.
"They have been incredible, incredible. We have to thank them. They have always been with the team. The last two away games, they have been incredible. Let's hope they can create the right atmosphere on Monday. Let's give them what they deserve."
Silva outlined the importance of making sure the squad is bolstered in January.
“We know what we need to do in January. "We are all on the same page. We know what we need.
“It's not what Marco Silva as a manager needs to improve or to strengthen the squad. It's what Fulham Football Club needs really.
"It's important about the profile, about the characteristics of the staff. But if I'm not here speaking and if someone from the club is speaking, they are going to say the same. Then I'm saying to you what we need to strengthen our squad next month."
Fulham’s home record against Nottingham Forest is good since he two sides were promoted together in 2022.
Three wins. 2-0, 5-0 and 2-1. Forest have a capable squad, but are missing key players to injury and AFCON themselves. Sean Dyche has stedied the ship since he took over from Big Ange - they sit just two points behind Fulham. But, a win for Fulham will see them rise 10 points above the relegation zone.
Our last home game of 2025. We all want to end it on a high.
Silva: “"Monday - we should react. We won at Burnley after two defeats. The reaction of the team was good. We got back-to-back away wins. Now we want to do our best to get back-back Premier League wins, it'll be demanding. Let's hope we can end the year in a good way."
Finally, Silva confirmed that his squad will train on Christmas morning, before they go home to spend time with their families.
Silva: “Let's see, Christmas Day we will be on (training) - an important day for people & families. Some hours here, then they can spend time with their families.”
To all the Fulham fans reading - have a Merry Christmas. See you all on Monday night, come on Fulham!