Wednesday Fulham Stuff (18/04/12)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Ever Dependable

Aaron Hughes has not always found himself as an immediate choice at centre back this season but whenever he has been called upon he has always delivered the assured performance that Whites fans have come to expect from the Northern Ireland international.

Now back in the side, Hughes has once again picked up the magnificent partnership with Brede Hangeland that has served Fulham so well over the years.

Never having been the most imposing defender, instead relying on a phenomenal reading of the game and spot-on positioning, he’s helped the Team to six points over Norwich City and Bolton Wanderers, as well as putting in dominant displays against Manchester United and Chelsea. In fact, it was his bullet header that drew a world-class stop from Petr Cech which led to Fulham’s equalising goal in our last match.

“From a personal perspective, it’s been nice to get back in the Team,” Aaron admitted. “Not playing every week has given me a little more time to work on different things in the gym. I’ve tried to get a little bit stronger and a little bit quicker, and work on my power.

“The biggest thing when you’re not playing is you lose that edge that you only really get in games so the only way you can keep that up is to try and maintain that through little bits and pieces that you do around the training ground and in the gym. I think I’ve done okay since I came back so it looks like it paid off.

“I’ve tried to keep on top of that, so when I did get called back into the side, I’m ready to go. I feel good, I’m even a little disappointed there’s only five games left because, with missing some of the games through the season, I feel there’s plenty more still left in me.

“That said, I’m enjoying being back in the side and playing games, and the Team has been doing well and that’s always nice.”

Fulham welcome one of the league’s form teams to the Cottage on Saturday, when Wigan visit SW6. Roberto Martinez’ side have won four of their last five matches, the last two of which were victories over Manchester United and Arsenal.

“They showed what they’re capable of in that performance against Manchester United,” Aaron said. “Not just the fact that they won but their attitude and the way they work hard for each other and put everything into the game. We’ll expect exactly the same when they turn up at Craven Cottage against us, it’ll be no different.

“But at the same time, we’re at home and our home form has been really good so if we can produce another good performance we give ourselves a very good chance. It could be a good day for us, but we know we’re going to have to produce another very good performance to beat them.”



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/April/EverDependable.aspx?#ixzz1sMx21hYV

[WhiteJC]

 
Clint Dempsey vs. Landon Donovan: Who's Better and Why?


Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

It's the debate that will have a room full of U.S. supporters arguing for hours. Who's the best U.S. footballer: Clint Dempsey or Landon Donovan?

For years, the answer was obvious. Landon Donovan is the national team's all-time leader in goals, assists, games started and second in total caps. He's been named Honda U.S. Player of the Year seven times and deserved it every time.

Since being named "Young Player of the Tournament" during the 2002 World Cup, Donovan has defined U.S. football.

But statistics can be deceiving and times are indeed changing.

Dempsey announced himself by winning the 2004 MLS Rookie of the Year in his first season with the New England Revolution. Two years later, he was the only U.S. player to score during the Nats' disastrous 2006 World Cup in Germany. He is currently destroying defenses in the Premier League.

They are arguably the two best players the United States has ever produced. But who's better? Let's break it down.

 

Speed

Dempsey is lots of things on the football pitch, but he is not particularly fast. The Fulham man survives on other traits. He pops up in dangerous areas, scores bags of goals and almost never seems to take a single step at a full sprint.

Clint Dempsey - I Stand Alone (All 2011-12 Highlights)

By contrast, Donovan can run step-for-step with almost anyone. Even at age 30, he can fly when it's required.

Advantage: Donovan

 

Ball Skills

Donovan is no slouch with the ball. He is one of the most technically proficient players in U.S. history. But Dempsey is a cut above.

When the ball finds Dempsey's feet as he's bursting into the area, there isn't another player that pulls on the national team jersey who is as dangerous and unpredictable.

Advantage: Dempsey

 

Passing

Both players link short passes effectively. Both have an eye for a dangerous ball. The difference lies in their openness to playing it in the final third. Dempsey picks out the final ball from time to time, but he is more often than not looking to get his shot away.

Whether in club or international play, Donovan keeps his options open until the last moment. As a result, he picks up assists like they've stopped making the things.

Landon Donovan's Greatest Highlights

Donovan averages almost eight-and-a-half assists per season over his decade in MLS. He also tallied three assists in just seven Premier League games with Everton this season. By contrast, Dempsey has managed just five in 33 for Fulham in 2011-12.

Advantage: Donovan

 

Shooting

No goalkeeper is happy when his defenders allow either Dempsey or Donovan to get a shot away. Both players score regularly and put the ball on target more often than not.

Dempsey shoots more for Fulham than Donovan does for the L.A. Galaxy. He is also slightly more accurate and wildly more brash. He gets the nod for goals like this one against Juventus and this one against Stoke.

Advantage: Dempsey

 

In the Air

Donovan isn't an aerial warrior. He's small, quick and the last thing he wants to do is leap into the air and crash into an opponent as they battle for a high ball.

Dempsey revels in the physical side of the game. He wins 1.5 aerial duels per match in the EPL. He gives and takes the blows that come with that statistic in equal measure. That aerial ability also gives him another weapon in his significant scoring arsenal.

Advantage: Dempsey

 

Weighing Their Club Careers

Before the arrival of David Beckham, Landon Donovan was the face of Major League Soccer. He is the one U.S. player that even the most disengaged American will recognize. He's torn up MLS defenses for more than a decade and shows no signs of slowing down.

But until two recent loan stints with Everton, Donovan had never succeeded in Europe. Two stints at Bayer Leverkusen early in his career failed to pan out. A loan spell at Bayern Munich in 2008-09 was a little better, but still pretty underwhelming.

Donovan looked like a complete European failure until spending two of the last three MLS offseasons at Everton. The first saw Donovan play spectacularly and earn the club's "Player of the Month" honor. Everton tried to extend the player's stay, but the Galaxy's refusal brought the player back to MLS.

The second found Donovan appearing in seven matches, tallying three assists and earning his second Everton "Player of the Month" honor in January 2012.

Clint Dempsey wonder goal Vs. Juventus

By contrast, Clint Dempsey got a much later start to his professional career after attending college at Furman. He made a quick start with a 2004 "Rookie of the Year" campaign for the New England Revolution.

After two more stellar years in MLS, Dempsey earned a move to Fulham. At the time, Dempsey's $4 million transfer fee was the largest ever spent on an MLS player.

Dempsey was a solid first-team performer during his first three full seasons at Craven Cottage. Last season, he stepped his level up significantly. This term, he has been the undisputed king of the roost in Martin Jol's side.

In the end, the argument at club level comes down to a question of quality over quantity. Donovan has been a star performer for longer, but at a lower level. Dempsey has reached greater heights faster and looks set to climb even further.

Advantage: Dempsey

 

Impact for the U.S. National Team

Donovan has been the Nats' dominating player at two World Cups (2002, 2010). Dempsey was the best player in a miserable U.S. performance in 2006.

No one has done more in a United States jersey than Donovan; no one is really all that close. But while Donovan has been largely absent under Jurgen Klinsmann due to injury and illness, Dempsey has continued to stake his claim in the national side.

Landon Donovan goal vs Algeria called by Andres Cantor

Dempsey created the most memorable moment in recent U.S. history when he notched the game's only goal during a February friendly win against Italy.

But international play is about the big competitions. In World Cup play, as Donovan goes, so goes the United States. His form in 2002 and 2010 pushed the Americans into the knockout rounds. When he was largely uninspiring in 2006, no combination of other players could make up the difference.

Dempsey might yet overhaul Donovan as the main man in the national team, but he's not there yet. Dempsey is a star for the U.S., but Donovan is the talisman.

Advantage: Donovan

 

Current Form

Clint Dempsey is wrapping up his best season as a professional with Fulham. Twenty-two goals across all competitions has transfer talk bubbling all around the midfielder. As far as the media is concerned, a move to a top EPL club is a matter of when rather than if.

Only three men have scored more in the EPL this season: Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Sergio Aguero. Dempsey is also the only non-forward among the league's top 10 goal scorers this season, although he has been playing up front more often lately.

For his part, Donovan's loan spell with Everton showed again that he has reached a point in his career where he can be a significant contributor in a European league. The L.A. Galaxy have had a miserable start to the MLS season, but Donovan has been solid.

But let's be honest—Clint Dempsey is one of the hottest players in world football at the moment.

Advantage: Dempsey

 

Verdict

Donovan has done more for longer than any other American outfield player. While the strength of Donovan's resume lies in his time with the national team, Dempsey has done it at the highest level for both club and country.

I'm not one who doubts Donovan's ability to succeed in the world's best professional leagues. I think at this point in his career, he could play well anywhere in the world, but it will take more than a few loan spells to prove it.

He doesn't appear to have the appetite to take on that kind of challenge. At club level, Donovan is comfortable.

Dempsey, by contrast, has welcomed challenge throughout his career. He fought his way through MLS and is in the process of fighting his way to the very top of the EPL. Unless nearly everyone is wrong, he will play in the Champions League next season. And if Dempsey plays, he excels.

Clint Dempsey Is the Best U.S. Player on the Planet

(All statistics from Whoscored.com, Fulhamfc.com, USsoccer.com, MLSsoccer.com and FIFA.com)



http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1148443-clint-dempsey-vs-landon-donovan-whos-better-and-why?

[WhiteJC]

 
Hard work paid off for Cottage ace

Aaron Hughes claims his extra gym session work helped him get back into the Fulham side and keep hold of a first-team jersey.
The Northern Ireland international has endured a mixed campaign as he faced a battle to secure a regular place in Cottagers' boss Martin Jol's first team.

However, after impressing whenever called upon, Hughes has now become a mainstay in the backline having again struck up a solid defensive partnership with Brede Hangeland as Fulham have pulled well clear of any relegation issues thanks to six points from games against Bolton and Norwich.

The duo also did well against Manchester United and Chelsea in recent matches with Hughes claiming the hard work he did when not in the side eventually paid off for him.

He told the club's website: "From a personal perspective, it's been nice to get back in the team.

"Not playing every week has given me a little more time to work on different things in the gym. I've tried to get a little bit stronger and a little bit quicker, and work on my power.

"The biggest thing when you're not playing is you lose that edge that you only really get in games so the only way you can keep that up is to try and maintain that through little bits and pieces that you do around the training ground and in the gym. I think I've done okay since I came back so it looks like it paid off.

"I've tried to keep on top of that, so when I did get called back into the side, I'm ready to go. I feel good, I'm even a little disappointed there's only five games left because, with missing some of the games through the season, I feel there's plenty more still left in me."



http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/hard-work-paid-off-for-cottage-ace-1415373.html?#.T45aIO2_wds

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham Memories

When Fulham welcome Wigan Athletic to the Cottage on Saturday, it will be almost 13 years to the day that we defeated the Latics 2-0 on our way to the old Division Two Title.

The Whites ran away with the league in the 1998/99 season, finishing with 101 points. Philippe Albert set Fulham on their way to victory in the home tie with Wigan all those years ago and Kit sealed the win in the 64th minute. Fulhamfc.com caught up with the Welshman as he recalls his playing days at the Club and the arrival of a special guest at the Cottage when we faced Wigan in 1999.

10.04.99 Fulham 2-0 Wigan Athletic

It was a fantastic time to be a Fulham player. That was the lowest level I ever played at but it was my favourite season of playing football, it was just such a great time. There a massive buzz around the Club because obviously Kevin Keegan was Manager and we had guys like Chris Coleman, Geoff Horsfield and Pesch [Paul Peschisolido] in the Team – some really good players. The team spirit that season was phenomenal. 

We had a bit of everything; we had really good players who could pass it and play attractive football but we also had players who had a bit of steel about them as well. The team spirit was the best camaraderie and togetherness I’ve ever come across – it really was brilliant that season.

We had people like Philippe Albert coming down to play for us which was a real coup; we were playing three at the back at that time. Morgs [Simon Morgan] played a lot that season so it would often be me, Cookie [Chris Coleman] and Morgs but then Philippe came in for a bit as well. It was a great Team. When you’re playing in the third tier of English football and you’ve got people like Steve Finnan, who would go on to play in a World Cup and win the Champions League, then that’s phenomenal.

Horsfield and [Barry] Hayles were up front which was an unbelievable pairing at that level and then we’d have someone of Pesch’s quality on the bench. It was a really good side but also they were a fantastic bunch of lads. It was such a good laugh and I really enjoyed that time in my life. It’s easy to enjoy it when you’re winning but we had a brilliant, fantastic team spirit.

I don’t remember a great deal of the Wigan game but I know I scored! I think it was a header at the Hammersmith End. I don’t think the score line is what most people remember that day for though because there was a buzz that Michael Jackson was going to be there. I got a whack on my leg during the match so I’m icing my leg on my own after the game while the boys are all outside having a warm down on the pitch. So I’m sitting in the changing room, completely on my own and then the Chairman walks in with Michael Jackson.

I’m pretty speechless and then Michael Jackson says to me: ‘Hey, great game.’ In hindsight I should’ve said ‘yeah it wasn’t bad’ or ‘it was a real thriller’ but I think I just kind of nodded in the end! He then left with the Chairman and the boys all came back in and I said, ‘lads, I’ve just seen Michael Jackson!’ They said, ‘we’ve just all had our picture taken with him and the Chairman on the pitch.’

So all the lads got a picture and they gave me a copy too; it's all the boys, the Chairman and Michael Jackson, and not me! I’ve got three little girls now and they love Michael Jackson’s music so I tell them that I met him once and show them the photo but they think I’m lying because they can’t see me in the picture. I tell them I should have been in it but was in the changing room but they don’t believe me to this day – they don’t believe me at all.

Fulham Team: Taylor, J. Smith (Peschisolido), Albert, Coleman, Symons (Morgan), Brevett, Finnan, Hayward (N. Smith), Hayles, Horsfield

Goals: Albert 56, Symons 64



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/April/FulhamMemories.aspx?#ixzz1sMyuFIbH

[WhiteJC]

 
Extra coaches put on for Fulham this Saturday

Due to the win at Arsenal on Monday night, there has been a demand by fans wanting to go and cheer the boys on at craven cottage this Saturday.

Because of this extra demand, we have put on another coach and seats will be sold on a first come first serve basis.

Full details are here and will have to booked through Mayfair Travel on 01942 829988.



http://www.wastc.co.uk/2012/04/extra-coaches-put-on-for-fulham-this-saturday/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Skills School Session

Bishops Park will host a number of activities before Fulham v Wigan on Saturday 21st April (KO 3pm).

Following the return of Weekend Football to Bishops Park (from 10.00am - 12.00pm), there will also be a FREE Skills School Session.

There will be a number of Skills School Sessions which will start from 12.00pm. Young Fulham fans are invited to experience an action packed 30 minute session where they can showcase their new skills infront of fans heading to the match.

Come on down and learn some new skills to impress your friends! These Skills School Sessions are FREE of charge, with no pre-booking required. Simply turn up from 12.00pm and introduce yourselves to our enthusiastic and fully qualified Foundation coaches.

As well as the Skills School Session, you can test your accuracy with the Foundation Target Cage. Challenge a friend or family member to see who can score the highest amount of points from 3 shots. Again, this activity is FREE of charge and we welcome adults to have a go too.

A limited number of tickets for Fulham v Wigan are still available, from just £30 for adults and £10 for juniors. Find out more at fulhamfc.com/tickets.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/April/SkillsSession.aspx?#ixzz1sMzPa5Qg

[WhiteJC]

 
AJ set for Fulham exit
Cottagers striker linked with QPR, Reading and West Ham


Andrew Johnson: His contract at Fulham expires at the end of the season

Sky Sports understands that Queens Park Rangers, Reading and West Ham are all chasing Fulham striker Andrew Johnson.

The 31-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season and he has been linked with a move away from Craven Cottage.

Fulham rejected the only firm offer for the striker in the January transfer window from QPR after it was deemed unacceptable.

Johnson, who smashed a hat-trick against their London neighbours in a 6-0 thumping back in October, has struggled for form this campaign, largely due to injury.

However, Rs boss Mark Hughes is a great admirer of the experienced striker from his days at Craven Cottage, but a lot may depend on whether the Welshman keeps the Loftus Road oufit in the top flight.

Promotion chasing Reading and West Ham are also reportedly keen on Johnson due to his vast experience of playing in the Premier League from his days with Crystal Palace and Everton.

Both clubs are ready to make offers should they go up from the Championship.



http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7681271/?

[WhiteJC]

 
The Week Column - Dempsey and Ba were deserving of at least a mention

It came as no great, genuine or authentic surprise, but the fact that Clint Dempsey was not included in the PFA Player's Player of the Year short list was still somewhat disheartening. As most would expect the list was formed, instead, of six players from the top four - half of which playing for Manchester City.

For the record, Robin van Persie of Arsenal, Wayne Rooney of Manchester United, Scott Parker of Tottenham Hotspur and David Silva, Joe Hart and Sergio Aguero, all of City, were the inclusions. You have to feel that perhaps only the first three are truly and evidentially justified.



Of course, all of them have had seasons of phenomenal pedigree - not least van Persi, who is already beyond-favourite to walk away with what is a much coveted accolade. Rooney had something of an anonymous start to this campaign but has proved himself worthy yet again, much in line with United's late, great surge towards yet another Premier League title. Parker, as you'd expect, has been his laborious yet neglected self. The other three have been effective in fits and spurts at best and have failed to carry consistency through the season, with the only exception going to Joe Hart - a ubiquitously talented English goalkeeper if ever there was one.

Dempsey, though, went unmentioned, along with other players who have set this year alight with sheer footballing aptitude. Demba Ba, for example, hasn't been recognised. All the while, you have to feel that the job they are doing is a more difficult one and yet the results they are offering are just as prolific. Does Ba have the support of the £20 million-rated Ashley Young and does Dempsey - a midfielder by trade, it must be noted - have the support of the multi talented, and multi-millionaire, Man City setup?

Both Ba and Dempsey have sixteen goals apiece in the Premier League, which, while being a far cry from van Persie's 27, is respectable in every sense of the word. Dempsey, especially, has been enduringly active. At some points in Fulham's season of tremendously intermittent success, he's been no less than vital. He's scored crucial goals, proved his boundless flexibility by performing, quite regularly of late, as a lone striker and in the process has done a sterling job.

And now, of course, the vultures circle around him, ready to snatch him from SW6's weary grasp come season's end. Clearly, then, there is something special in this 29 year old. Of course, not special enough for a PFA Player's Player of the Year Award. And that is so unfortunate because Dempsey has been a revelation this year - a year touted as his maker - and has continued to astound.

Since moving in the January transfer window of 2007, the US International has climbed the ranks to become a player that is simply indispensable to Fulham, but the signs were there all along. His crucial goal against Liverpool in his very first season being one of them.

He won't be rewarded externally but he must be aware of how grateful Fulham are for his efforts. The chances are that he will leave this summer but he will leave as a legend in the same ilk as Brian McBride did four years ago.

We will remember Dempsey and hopefully, before long, so will everybody else.



http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2012/4/17/2954852/the-week-column-dempsey-and-ba-were-deserving-of-at-least-a-mention?

[WhiteJC]

 
3 sides circling outbound Johnson

Sky Sports News are reporting that Andrew Johnson will leave Fulham at the end of the season with Queens Park Rangers, West Ham United and Reading all monitoring his situation.

The former England international has failed to truly win over fans since his 2008 move from Everton, but he has proved a useful member of the squad. Current manager Martin Jol, however, views him differently and with Johnson's contract set to run out at the end of the season, no new deal has yet been spoken about.

Mark Hughes has already shown a keen interest when his QPR side made a bid in January. The bid was rejected, however, although they are expected to make another move in the summer. Hughes is an admirer of Johnson after spending time with the former Crystal Palace forward at Craven Cottage.

West Ham and Reading will express their interest if promoted.



http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2012/4/17/2955092/3-sides-circling-outbound-johnson?

[WhiteJC]

 
We Have A Plan

Stalin believed in them. Football clubs too often talk about their own 'five year plan.' We hear plenty about them on launch. Rarely any real assessment as to their worth at journey's end


© Getty Images

Notice how few negative headlines you've read about Mike Ashley this season? The last time the Magpies made national news coverage away from the pitch was the renaming of St. James Park. Understandably irritated fans detested the rebranding last November. You won't hear many referring to the 'Sports Direct Arena.' Crass marketing from Ashley in keeping with his ego, but that aside the guy's appointment of Alan Pardew is matching the acumen shown in building up his millions from merchandising. All those protest banners after Hughton's sacking have been binned.

Pardew was handed a five and a half year contract on arrival in December 2010 - unusual by Premier League standards, causing plenty to question the owner's wisdom yet again. Pardew was Ashley's 5th managerial appointment in three years, coming in after the popular Chris Hughton had been shafted as Pardew offered more 'experience.' Of what sort? He got West Ham up and to a Cup Final before getting sacked when he couldn't cut it at the top, then took Charlton down and had been dumped by Southampton that August. Nobody back then on Tyneside would have envisaged the Southerner being touted for Manager of the Season eighteen months on. But full marks to Pardew for transforming Newcastle on the pitch - and he's a lifelong Fulham fan by the way.

Despite the chequered managerial past, where Alan had a reputation for being 'difficult' to get along with, he does not lack for belief in his own abilities. But that has to be a prerequisite for football managers. And this season I've also heard Pardew say the club's progress is all part of his five year plan. Now this can often be managerspeak for 'I'm going to need time to turn this around,' which is something owners are so reluctant to give. Abramovitch being a prime example. 'King' Kenny is already drinking in the last chance saloon 18 months into NO change to Liverpool's progress after Roy's departure. Closer to home, Asian business tycoon Tony Fernandes is another to repeat the mantra at QPR in recent weeks. Paving the way for probable demotion to the Championship, Tony's five year plan for that little club down Loftus Road dictates a new stadium, building an academy, new commercial activities around 'brand QPR,' and more besides. Even were Rangers to beat the drop, 18,000 capacity gates in the Prem makes any real progress unsustainable. Matchday revenues at Rangers for the season are matched by Arsenal and Man United inside a month.

Not that Fulham are immune from this problem. You can find a full dossier on the breakdown of our indebtedness and financials from excellent research done at the following site: swissramble.blogspot.co.uk/ Scroll down the left column to locate Fulham, read and be ever grateful for the munificence of the al Fayed family that keeps us afloat.

If we ever publicly had a 5 Year Plan of or own I can't recall. But in the absence of a weekend fixture I took to musing on our position at the back end of the season in 2007. By any yardstick Fulham have come on considerably since then. My research was influenced by all the media attention Clint is getting from two phenomenal back-to-back seasons, and an article our number one fan in North Carolina Jessica sent over. It was of course that memorable strike of Clint's deep into the 2nd half home to Liverpool in 07 that saved our skins following an awful slump that campaign as Coleman lost the plot and Sheffield United took the drop instead of us.

I shudder to look back at some of the players we were fielding in that period. Clint wasn't featuring after his move across and in the article sent over had been pretty vocal in his frustration at waiting his chance. "The club had worked really hard to get me to come over from the MLS and then, not to be featuring, was getting to me." Prior to that crunch fixture with Liverpool we had gone up to Arsenal for our habitual thrashing. Clint replaced Jensen for the last half an hour and was asked by Sanchez to play up the middle (with Radzinski!!!). Looking back what do we remember from our first sightings of the Texan legend? He fell over a lot. He wasn't that quick. He took some ridiculous long shots. But there was definitely something there...For that Liverpool win it was the underwhelming Montella who gave way for Dempsey to come on and notch the winner, the first and most crucial goal he would ever score for FFC. In the greater scheme of things, far more important than 'that chip' v Juventus. It was our first win in 11, the first with Sanchez at the helm, and if you want to spook yourself all over again look up the match report and see some of the names we had in our ranks at the time.

It brings things into focus when we reflect on the make-up of the team now. Of course, Sanchez wasn't the answer either, though he was unlucky with injuries to key players, and we were to suffer more agonies through the second half of the following season. The tide turned under Hodgson, Hughes retained equilibrium, and though today's side had the talent to add a further 5-8 points to our current tally, Europa League distractions and some questionable tactics from Jol prior to winter saw us treading water in the lower half of the league until recently. Few however as we approach season's end would argue that in all departments the current Whites look a different vintage to the whipping boys of five years ago.

Ah yes, nostalgia. We can't get enough of it. Last week was also the 10th anniverary of the Sunday we motored up to Villa Park to contest an FA Cup semi-final with Chelsea. You all know the result, it wasn't our finest hour and the Blues won with a very scruffy goal from a corner. As the BBC reported in what was our first season in the Prem, "Fulham's finishing did not match the quality of their approach play." So here's to the next 10 years, in which, dare I say it, Fulham will finally manage to lift a trophy of significance! We always live in hope.

Build up to the match action Saturday, with a suddenly far more intriguing game with Wigan than we might have foreseen, to come later in the week.

Keep the faith and COYW! Twitter@fulhamphil



http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2012/04/we_have_a_plan.php?

[WhiteJC]

 
Russian ace in move clue

Pavel Pogrebnyak has fuelled rumours he is ready to sign a permanent deal at Fulham after moving into Jose Mourinho's old London pad.

The striker, who arrived on a short-term deal from Stuttgart in January, held a house-warming party at the property that is situated close to Craven Cottage.

"I like my life in London very much," he told Russian website Tden.

"Branislav Ivanocivc, Ramires and Frank Lampard from Chelsea live in my neighbourhood as well as the players of Fulham.

"Jose Mourinho lived in my house before."

Fulham fans are hoping that Martin Jol persuades the Russian striker to sign a long-term deal, despite interest from rival Premier League clubs.

The 28-year-old has been an instant hit since his arrival at Fulham, netting five times in seven appearances, but will be a free agent in the summer when his current contract expires.



http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/russian-ace-in-move-clue-1414962.html?

[WhiteJC]

 
Clint Dempsey: Fulham Forward Should've Won PFA Award, Let Alone Be on Shortlist


Clint Dempsey: The Most Talismanic Premier League Player This Season
Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) always seems to pick the wrong players for its Players' Player of the Year award—and by excluding Fulham's Clint Dempsey in 2012, they've done it again.

The shortlist for the top honour this year has the following players: Robin Van Persie (Arsenal), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City), David Silva (Manchester City), Scott Parker (Tottenham Hotspur) and Joe Hart (Manchester City).

Straight away it seems that Robin van Persie is the favourite for the award—and rightly so it would seem.

After all, the 28-year-old striker has scored 27 goals and made 12 assists in the Premier League this season—a vastly superior record to any other player in the league.

But in reality, it should be Clint Dempsey up there as the bookies' favourite.

First of all, it almost goes without saying that he should be on the shortlist this year—one look at his figures for the season would tell you that.

The 29-year-old American forward is in the form of his career right now, scoring 16 goals and making five assists this term.

That goalscoring figure isn't as high as that of van Persie, Rooney or Aguero—but we all know it's a brilliant tally because he's scoring those goals for Fulham, a side with much less firepower than United, City or Arsenal.

A team who create—on average—4.6 less chances per game than Manchester United, 4.5 less than Arsenal and 3.2 less than Manchester City—making Dempsey's achievement all the more remarkable.

And not only should the United States international be on the shortlist, he should of course be the red hot favourite for the crown.

For this is a player who has scored 41 percent of all Fulham's Premier League goals this season—take away his goals, and the Cottagers would've dropped seven points this term.

To put that talismanic form in perspective, Sergio Aguero has scored just 25 percent of his team's league goals this season—take away his strikes and City would've dropped five points.

Wayne Rooney has scored 30 percent of United's goals—take his goals away, six points dropped.

Robin Van Persie would appear the most talismanic however—take away his goals and Arsenal would've in theory dropped a staggering 21 points.

But the flying Dutchman has scored less of his side's overall goals—40 percent—and done so for a team that creates at least four to five more goalscoring chances each game.

So in Clint Dempsey, we could be talking about the most talismanic player in the Premier League right now.

And the reason why he's so important to Fulham is because of his fantastic versatility—a trait which again should see him win the PFA Players' Player of the Year.

Because this is a player who has a 100 percent goalscoring record in three different areas of the pitch—five goals in five games as a centre-forward, three goals in three games as a central attacking midfielder and one goal in one game (and an assist) on the right wing.

And in his main position this season—the left wing—Dempsey has effectively contributed a goal every two games, scoring six and assisting four in 20 matches.

No other player in the Premier League has had such success this season in four different positions.

Robin Van Persie has only played as a centre-forward this season, Wayne Rooney the same, and Sergio Aguero has scored the vast majority of his goals as a trequartista, only scoring twice more in the striker's position.

Which again goes to show how adaptable—and more importantly integral—Clint Dempsey has been to Fulham this season.

It's that kind of fundamental form which has seen the American gain tons of plaudits this campaign, and spark rumours of a £10 million transfer to Arsenal.

Yet still he doesn't get the recognition he deserves from the fans, and more significantly the players who vote for their favourite fellow professionals.

Because this is a player who—as has been clear all season—not only deserves to be on the shortlist, but should be winning the award.


http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1148540-clint-dempsey-fulham-forward-shouldve-won-pfa-award-let-alone-be-on-shortlist?

[WhiteJC]

 
Gatesys Weekend Roundup
by GATESY on APRIL 17, 2012

We may have not played this last weekend, and contrary to what some Fulham fans may tell you, the footballing world did continue. As well as a couple of tin pot cup games happening somewhere down the road in norf London there was the important matter of the Premier League at hand.

Our next opponents, Wigan Athletic, were loving a bit of Monday Night Football action against Arsenal. The Latics were out of the traps like a rare gas with two goals inside the opening 8 minutes. An well organised showing and some wasteful shooting from the reds was enough to see them head up the Motorway 6 with all the points, after a Vermaelen consolation. The defeat for the Gunners means that their record against teams in the bottom half of the table (35 points from a possible 51) is the worst of any of the top six sides.

While Man Yoo notched up a clear four goal victory over quickly sinking Villa, all the talk was of former Villain Young and not how poor the midland side are fast becoming. An ‘interesting’ dive helped the reds stay at the top of the tree and above local rivals Citeh who themselves chalked up an impressive six – one victory against the Canaries at Carrow Road. Tevez marked his return good and proper with a hat trick that keeps them in with a hope of overtaking their neighbours yet.

But let us not gloss over how poor Aston Villa are these days. This time last season when he successfully relegated the Blue team from the second city, McLeish was a full three point sbetter off than he is currently. Yes, the teams down the bottom are a lot worse this year, but Villa still have a local derby, a match up against a relegation rival (Bolton) and a top four challenger (Spuds) to come, which shan’t be easy.

In contrast Paul Scholes appears to be getting better and better since his return. Averaging a 92% pass completion rate all season he upped his game and put in a 94% game on Saturday. Head and shoulders above other fellow English midfielders, if only ‘Arry could talk him into slipping into an Engerland shirt this summer…

Down toward the bottom of the table Swansea took all the pints from their meeting with Blackburn. The Welshmen came away 3-0 victors and the crowd are once again turning of our old mate Keano. After a brief pick up in form the status quo has returned and Rovers have now lost five straight league games for the first time since Paul Ince was shown the door in late 2008. Uncle |Roy did us a favour and didn’t  let QPR return to their hovel of a ground with a single point. A twenty second minute goal from Dorrans was enough to see the Baggies right. With trips to Man City and Chelsea on the hoizon for Rangers, times running out and home games against Stoke and Spuds are now must win games.

Up norf Sunderland and Wolves played out a bore draw and that’s about all to be said about it.

Next up for us is Wigan at the Cottage this coming Saturday. IF all the results went the right way for us and we scored a shed load of goals, we could lift ourselves up above Liverpool and we’d all have a good old laug at how they’re an improving side and what a wise investment of a squillions pounds Andy Carrol is.

*ahem*



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2012/04/gatesys-weekend-roundup-12/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Hughes ready for tough Latics test

Aaron Hughes maintains Fulham will not take Wigan lightly when the rejuvenated Latics come to Craven Cottage on Saturday.


Roberto Martinez's side have hauled themselves five points clear of the drop zone following four wins in their last five matches after adding a 2-1 victory at Arsenal on Monday night to memorable triumphs at Anfield and over leaders Manchester United.

Defender Hughes knows Fulham will be in for a tough encounter, but is confident of ending the Latics resurgence.

"They showed what they're capable of in that performance against Manchester United, not just the fact that they won but their attitude and the way they work hard for each other and put everything into the game," Hughes said on the club's official website, www.fulhamfc.com.

"We will expect exactly the same when they turn up at Craven Cottage against us, it will be no different. "

But at the same time, we are at home and our home form has been really good so if we can produce another good performance we give ourselves a very good chance."



http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2012/04/17/Hughes-ready-for-tough-Latics-test/gnid-138934/?

[WhiteJC]

 
Pavel Pogrebnyak Buys Jose Mourinho's Former Home, Plans Lengthy Stay at Fulham FC



Pavel Pogrebnyak only joined Fulham FC on loan at the end of January, but the Russian striker plans on staying in London for the long-haul. Pogrebnyak lives in a posh London neighborhood and counts a number of Chelsea FC stars as neighbors.

He even purchased Jose Mourinho's old home, according to Russia Today.

"I like my life in London very much," Russia Today reports Pogrebnyak told Russian website Tden. "Branislav Ivanovic, Ramires and Frank Lampard from Chelsea live in my neighbourhood as well as the players of Fulham. "Jose Mourinho lived in my house before."

Pogrebnyak's contract still belongs to German club VfB Stuttgart, and the two clubs did not hammer out a permanent deal before the close of the January transfer window.

But the 28-year-old has quickly adapted to English soccer, scoring five goals in his first three games for Fulham before an ankle injury slowed him down. Fulham boss Martin Jol seems eager to keep Pogrebnyak at the club, and a £4 million ($6.4 million) transfer offer should be enough to meet Stuttgart's valuation.

Mourinho, now in charge of Spanish giant Real Madrid, was one of English soccer's most famous imports. He led Chelsea during the most successful period in the club's history, winning six major trophies between 2004-07.



Read more at: http://www.nesn.com/2012/04/pavel-pogrebnyak-buys-jose-mourinhos-former-home-plans-lengthy-stay-at-fulham-fc.html?