Joao Palhinha looks likely to miss the start of the Premier League after separating his shoulder just before half-time in Fulham’s pre-season friendly victory over Brentford in Philadelphia last night.
The Portuguese international, playing at centre back, limped down the tunnel after attempting to win the ball back and falling awkwardly to the floor and, although Fulham will wait for scans to judge the seriousness of the injury, Silva was not optimistic when speaking in his post-match press conference.
“Unfortunately, it doesn’t look good. It’s serious, but let’s hope it’s not too serious. It’s his shoulder, probably dislocated. Tomorrow he’s going to do a scan and it will be more clear for me to update you on the situation. Let’s hope it’s not another long-term injury for us.”
The Fulham head coach was pleased with quality of Fulham’s first outing in the Summer Series.
It was good, a really competitive match. I think the fans enjoyed it. I saw good things, great goals, the first two goals were great goals. The way we started the first half was really good, really good. We expected strong pressure from a good Brentford side. The way we played through the pressure, we tried to beat the pressure every time, with enough courage to do it. ’m pleased with some of the things that I saw, there are things to improve, as always, and we have to keep going.”
Silva emphasised that he wants Aleskandar Mitrovic to remain at the club, but that Serbian striker would have to train with his team-mates in order to be considered for selection.
I spoke with the board – [I have] no updates on Mitrovic. A player that is not training, and is not in the picture with his teammates, is not going to play. It’s easy for me to decide. If he trains with his teammates, he’s going to play matches. If he’s not training with his teammates, he’s not going to play. Of course, if Mitrovic is my player I would like him to train, to be involved in all the moments with the team. You know that, that I would like to have him participating in all the moments with the team.”
I feel sorry for Joao as although it not as bad as a break it takes time to stabilise. So initial rest and time is needed.
With a world record bid for Mbappe now on the table what happens to Mittro’s offer..??? Things change but he has blotted his image now so any developments are possible.
Good game last night with plenty of youngsters on show but for me the one that took my eye was Luc de Fougerolles who looked good on the ball and taclked and distributed well. Could he be our back up full back as he developes
I agree with Bob Luc de Fougerolles looked very good and confident ( eyes off Liverpool)
When Mitro goes has anyone considered Richarlison from Spurs played under Silva twice and is desperate to be playing every week and with Adarabioyo looking likely to go to Spurs then why don’t we try and do a deal with player and cash???
This could be a blessing in disguise, Pahlinha injured (hopefully not too serious) will have less suitors. As for Mitro, he s showing to be another player with no respect other than for money. Fulham FC made him a millionaire, he should at least keep that on mind.