Shakhtar Screening
Friday 19th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Don't worry if you can't make it to Donetsk for our away leg in the UEFA Europa League, you can cheer the Team on with fellow Fulham fans at one of our stylish bars at the Cottage (from 5pm, Thursday 25 February).
We are also offering a great value food and drink deal - a beer and a pie for just £5 .
After Fulham's great performance in the home leg, this is a game you won't want to miss!
Register your interest
Register your interest now
Name* Please enter your name
Email* Please enter email
Telephone No
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarScreening.aspx#ixzz0g1ZPMUAl (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarScreening.aspx#ixzz0g1ZPMUAl)
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArchive.aspx#ixzz0g1aDOY4h (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArchive.aspx#ixzz0g1aDOY4h)
Inside Fulham
Download this week's 'Inside Fulham' podcast featuring Manager Roy Hodgson, Mark Schwarzer and Aaron Hughes.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc (http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc)
Still Time to Board
Friday 19th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Fulham travel to Donetsk with a 2-1 lead next Thursday, and there are still a few seats remaining on the Official Fulham flyer| .
Fulham's away UEFA Europa League tie against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday 25th February presents Fulham fans with not only the chance to witness Roy Hodgson's side take on last season's UEFA Cup winners in the last 32 of the competition, but also the opportunity to visit Shakhtar's magnificent Donbass Stadium.
If you are a Season Ticket Holder, or Club Member, you can now book your place| to Donetsk and enjoy another magical night of European football at one of Europe's highest rated stadiums.
With a capacity of 55,000 and built to UEFA's five-star standard, the Donbass Stadium was unveiled in August 2009 and has already been earmarked as a flagship stadium for the UEFA Euro 2012 Tournament. The soaring roof effect resembles a flying saucer, whilst the glazed façade – a huge glass wall of 24,000 square meters – also give the venue iconic status on the landscape of Eastern European stadia.
Book your place today| . Prices start from only £474pp .
The Official Fulham Flyer trip includes:
Direct return flights from Gatwick to Donetsk
One night's accommodation
All overseas private coach transfers
Your ticket to the match
Please note flight times are:
25 Feb 10 Thursday MON9132 LGW-DOK 0825-1410
26 Feb 10 Friday MON9133 DOK-LGW 1400-1620
For more information, or to secure your seat on the plane please visit the Official Flyer website| or get in touch with a member of our team.
Fulham Flyer to Donetsk, book now|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTravel.aspx#ixzz0g1aRi9Q0 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/ShakhtarTravel.aspx#ixzz0g1aRi9Q0)
Fulham v Birmingham
Barclays Premier League
Sunday 21 February
Kick-Off 15:00
Tickets are now on General Sale.
Buy tickets now|
How to Buy Tickets
buy tickets online - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day. Save on booking fees by booking online*
by phone on 0870 442 1234 (option 1) - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day
in person from the Ticket Office: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm
by fax 0207 384 4810 (download printable form )
by postal application to FFC Ticket Office, Stevenage Road, Fulham, SW6 6HH enclosing a stamped addressed envelope (download printable form )
Seatwave - the official fan-to-fan ticket exchange
Thomas Cook - match breaks for all Fulham FC home games
* Lower booking fees compared to telephone booking
Prices
Category B prices apply to this match.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FulhamvBirmingham.aspx#ixzz0g1agGN11 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FulhamvBirmingham.aspx#ixzz0g1agGN11)
Season Tickets 2010/11 on sale now
It's been an unforgettable season so far, with the side already recording eight league victories at Craven Cottage, including memorable victories over Liverpool and Manchester United.
And with the Whites just one game away from a Wembley Semi-Final and place in the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League, this campaign looks set to be as memorable as last year's highest ever league finish.
With the ever-increasing stature of the Club under Roy Hodgson, we have launched 2010/11 Season Tickets earlier than ever to ensure you don't miss out on any of the action at Craven Cottage next season!
Season Tickets at Fulham are accessible to all real football fans – and just as importantly these days, it's a genuinely affordable way to catch all 19 of Fulham's Barclays Premier League home games!
New Season Ticket Applications are now being accepted. Adult and Concession Season Tickets for the 2010/11 season start at just £285 , and Junior Season Tickets from just £95 – that's only £15 and £5 per game respectively! We even have a limited number of FREE Season Tickets for Under 8s if requested at the same time as a full Adult Season Ticket*.
Don't worry if you are a Season Ticket Holder looking to renew , your seat is being held until the 19th April .
*Note: these must be requested at the same time as purchase of the accompanying adult ticket. Not available to buy online. Printable renewal and application forms will be available mid-March.
Buy your Season Ticket Now|
2010/11 Season Ticket Prices
SEASON TICKETS 10/11 Early Bird (pre 10 May) Post Early Bird
Adult Conc Jnr Adult Conc Jnr
Riverside SL, ZL 285 285 155 285 285 185
Hammersmith H1, H8 349 329 155 399 379 185
Hammersmith H2, H7 369 329 155 419 379 185
Riverside XL, TL 399 349 155 449 399 185
Haynes A, AL 399 349 95 449 399 95
Haynes K, KL 399 349 155 449 399 185
Putney P1 369 329 155 369 329 155
Hammersmith H3, H6 479 349 155 529 399 185
Hammersmith H4, H5 499 349 155 549 399 185
Haynes/Riverside B, GL, C, CL, H HL, J, JL / Z, S 559 369 155 609 419 185
Haynes D, DL, G, GL 599 389 189 649 439 219
Haynes/Riverside E, EL, F, FL / X, T 699 649 599 749 749 749
Riverside W, VL, WL 849 799 749 899 899 899
Concessions : over 65 (as of 1 Dec 2010) / under 21 (as of 1 Aug 2010)
Junior : under 17 (as of 1 Aug 2010)
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/SeasonTickets201011.aspx#ixzz0g1auwuey (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/SeasonTickets201011.aspx#ixzz0g1auwuey)
Holding the Fort
Friday 19th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Whilst goals from Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora grabbed the headlines in Fulham's scintillating 2-1 defeat of Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday night – the composure and resilience of the back four was, as ever, also instrumental.
The Whites made a dream start to their round of 32 first-leg tie at Craven Cottage when Gera slotted home from Zamora's clever lay-off inside three minutes.
However, last season's UEFA Cup winners hit back and responded with an impressive demonstration of attacking intent and intricate movement – spearheaded by their five-strong Brazilian contingent.
As Shakhtar's dominance grew, Fulham spent long periods pinned with their backs to Mark Schwarzer's goal with Aaron Hughes in particular working overtime to keep the Ukrainians at bay.
He told fulhamfc.com: "As we all know we started the game very well and scored a quick goal through Zoltan Gera. But after Shakhtar got the game restarted they pretty much kept possession for the rest of the half.
"They're a good side and they showed that they have a lot of threat with their Brazilian players showing their great technical and creative ability. They're a side that keeps the ball very well and always had it moving.
"That spell brought a goal of course, but for all their pressure I do think that was their only real chance, although at times we were throwing bodies in the way of everything."
A goal from Luiz Adriano after 32 minutes certainly upped the ante as the Northern Ireland skipper went on to make several key blocks and a number of important tackles.
"In the second-half we put them under a bit more pressure and just tried to get in and amongst them," said Hughes. "I think we picked our moments a lot better and enjoyed our fair share of possession.
"From that we managed to increase our tempo a little and as a result Bobby Zamora scored a fantastic goal that went in off the underneath of the bar. It was a brilliant strike and that set us up nicely.
"We knew it would be a game where we didn't see large spells of the ball and that we would have to soak up the pressure and perhaps spend a bit of time doing all we could to keep them out.
"They're a different type of opponent to what we are used to. But for all the possession that they had, I thought we defended pretty well and kept our shape.
"We were disappointed to concede the goal how we did, but apart from that I don't think they cut through us that often. They had a few chances, but so did we.
"It was a tough game and we know that we have beaten a very good team. To come out on top was very satisfying and we can head into the second-leg with a bit of confidence."
Fulham now have the advantage as they make the 1,500-mile trip to the Donbass Arena for Thursday night's second-leg clash. But an even tougher encounter can be expected on Ukrainian soil with Mircea Lucescu's side unbeaten at home this season.
The 30-year-old added: "We have a game against Birmingham City to play before that one. That's the focus now, because Birmingham are a good side and one that is enjoying a very good season so far.
"When Sunday's game is out of the way, then we'll start thinking about heading out to Ukraine. I think we go there in a positive position, and Thursday night was a good win for us. But it is a difficult place to go, we know that.
"It would have been nice to go there having kept a clean sheet, but we'll give it a good go of scoring a goal for ourselves which will even out that away goal. It will certainly be an interesting game, but one that everyone wants to be part of."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/HughesShakhtarReaction.aspx#ixzz0g1b8jFch (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/HughesShakhtarReaction.aspx#ixzz0g1b8jFch)
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/BredeOnShakhtarWin.aspx
Flying High
Friday 19th February 2010
Fulham FC News
|Fulham defender Brede Hangeland praised the Club's supporters following Thursday night's memorable victory over current UEFA Cup holders Shakhtar Donetsk.
The Fulham faithful produced an electric atmosphere for Hangeland and company and the Norwegian defender was clearly delighted to have extended the Club's unbeaten European record at the Cottage.
"It's great when the crowd gets behind you like they did on Thursday night," said Hangeland. "I hope everyone had a good time and we're certainly happy with the score.
"We've beaten them at home so we'll go there [Donetsk] with a lot of confidence and hopefully we can get a good result.
"It's a good achievement, especially after playing such a good team. I was really impressed with the way they played the game. We'll have to take our chances when we go to the Ukraine next week for the second leg."
Fulham's Ukrainian opponents produced spells of sublime football on Thursday night and Hangeland revealed after the game that composure and patience were crucial factors in dealing with Shakhtar's highly impressive offensive play.
"When you play against these types of teams you have to accept they're very good on the ball and will have most of the possession," said Hangeland.
"Luckily that's not always the way forward to score goals and on Thursday night we won 2-1 even though they must have had 60 to 70 percent of the possession - it's important that you don't get frustrated by that.
"I think they're the best team we've played in Europe by quite a margin. You could see why they're the current holders of the UEFA Cup."
Thursday night's encounter was settled by a moment of magic from Bobby Zamora and Hangeland was keen to highlight the importance of the striker to the Fulham Team after the match.
"He's [Zamora] done well ever since he arrived at the Club – the only difference this year is he's had some more luck in front of goal. We've always known he was a good player and it's good that everyone else can see that now too.
"He's vital to the Team and certainly one of our most important players. He holds the ball up well; he scores goals and gives opposition defenders a very hard time.
"He showed again on Thursday night what a massive player he is for us. He can make things happen and he scored a fantastic goal and I'm very happy for him."
All talk of next week's return leg will be put on ice for now as Roy Hodgson's side prepare for Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash with Birmingham City and Hangeland is confident Fulham can continue their outstanding home record this weekend.
"Our main priority has always been the Premier League but it's always nice to play in this type of competition and hopefully we can continue further.
"It's now all about preparing for the game against Birmingham City on Sunday and we'll talk about Shakhtar again after that.
"At home we're capable of beating most teams and that's what we'll be trying to do on Sunday."
Get down to the Cottage on Sunday to support Roy Hodgson's side as they take on Birmingham City at the Cottage. Tickets are now on General Sale.|
From the Other Side
Friday 19th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Speaking after Thursday evening's match between Fulham and Shakhtar Donetsk, visiting manager Mircea Lucescu gave his assessment of the game.
"It is a good thing that we've got a second leg so we'll still have a chance," the Shakhtar Manager explained. "We've lost a game that we shouldn't have lost. A lack of practice coming into the game saw us concede the first goal. After that we had the game under control.
"There were a lot of chances out of which we could have scored but unfortunately we couldn't find the right solution. This was a rivalry between two different styles of game - Fulham were playing very strong passes and we based our game on technique and speed. As a result we had a spectacular game for the fans.
"Now we have to do our best to realise our potential in Donetsk and win the game. It will be very difficult because Fulham are very well organised, especially in defence. We'll definitely have to find ways to weaken their defence and create our own chances.
"We hope that the referees in Donetsk will facilitate a beautiful game and not what happened today, I'm not judging the referee - he had his own method of judgement which facilitated more physical football.
"But I congratulate Fulham, they are a great team who have a very good defence and play in a compact manner, that's why it's going to be very difficult in the second leg. I'm sure we will be in better form in Donetsk. Fulham definitely had some luck and managed to take advantage of their chances but that doesn't mean that I don't appreciate Fulham's defensive strength."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/MirceaLucescuReaction.aspx#ixzz0g1bp0ifc (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/MirceaLucescuReaction.aspx#ixzz0g1bp0ifc)
Birmingham Travel Update
Friday 19th February 2010
Fulham FC News
Supporters planning on coming to this Sunday's match between Fulham and Birmingham City at Craven Cottage should note that ongoing works to Hammersmith Bridge and the London Underground could affect travel times.
Hammersmith Bridge
Work on Hammersmith Bridge will continue until March 2010, the bridge will be closed to all traffic in both directions every weekend until March 15. However, the bridge will be open to cyclists and pedestrians at all times during these works.
Circle Line, District Line and Hammersmith and City Line
There is no service on the Circle Line on the entire line due to track replacement work this weekend.
There is no service between Edgware Road and High Street Kensington on the District Line due to track replacement work.
There is no service between Baker Street and Hammersmith on the Hammersmith and City Line due to track replacement work.
Your journey time could take up to 45 minutes extra. If you need any further information visit tfl.gov.uk| , phone 0843 222 1234 (24 hours) or speak to station staff.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/BirminghamTravelUpdate.aspx#ixzz0g1cOHik2 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/BirminghamTravelUpdate.aspx#ixzz0g1cOHik2)
http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/02/19/fulham-v-birmingham-preview-phillips-on-a-survival-mission-for/
Fulham v Birmingham Preview: Phillips on a Survival Mission for Blues
19/2/2010 5:25 PM GMT
By Ian Winrow
FULHAM:
The mantra trotted out in the wake of Thursday's thrilling Europa League victory over Skakhtar Donetsk was that any thoughts about next week's now eagerly anticipated return in Ukraine must be put to one side until after the meeting with Birmingham.
"That's the focus now, because Birmingham are a good side and one that is enjoying a very good season so far," Aaron Hughes told the club's official website, www.fulhamfc.com (http://www.fulhamfc.com), sticking to the party line. "When Sunday's game is out of the way, then we'll start thinking about heading out to Ukraine."
Roy Hodgson and his players are undeniably professional enough to ensure their actions match their words, but it will be hard to avoid the feeling that this mid-table Premier League meeting is now something of a support act ahead of the main attraction next Thursday night.
That, of course, marks an about-turn from the long-standing view that the midweek European jaunts should play second fiddle to the more prosaic task of accumulating Premier League points.
Fulham, though, already look secure and while the league campaign and the looming FA Cup quarter final will recapture the imagination soon enough, the possibility of knocking out last season's Uefa Cup winners to set up a meeting with Ajax or Juventus is currently more alluring in the eyes of many supporters.
After such a successful month, it's important Hodgson's side maintain the winning habit no matter what the competition while striker Bobby Zamora will be keen to maintain his current scoring form that culminated in his outstanding winner against Shakhtar.
"He's [Zamora] done well ever since he arrived at the club – the only difference this year is he's had some more luck in front of goal," defender Brede Hangeland told the club's official website, www.fulhamfc.com (http://www.fulhamfc.com). "We've always known he was a good player and it's good that everyone else can see that now too.
"He's vital to the team and certainly one of our most important players. He holds the ball up well; he scores goals and gives opposition defenders a very hard time.
"He showed again on Thursday night what a massive player he is for us. He can make things happen and he scored a fantastic goal and I'm very happy for him."
Strategy: The link-up play between Zamora and Zoltan Gera, who was operating as a deep-lying second forward, caused problems for Shaktar, particularly when Damien Duff and Simon Davies pushed forward in support, and Hodgson will expect similar movement against Birmingham. Hangeland would prefer to forget some moments of torments inflicted on him by the fleet-footed Ukrainian side but he and Hughes should form a strong enough central defence to deny Birmingham's forwards.
Injury update: Nicky Shorey will return at left back in place of Stephen Kelly after being cup-tied for the Shakhtar game. Paul Konchesky could win a place on the bench after recovering from a foot injury but strikers Andrew Johnson and Clint Dempsey (both knee), midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi (ankle), and full back John Pantsil (knee) remain sidelined.
BIRMINGHAM CITY:
Kevin Phillips can inch Birmingham even higher up the Premier League table this weekend but insists he is still only thinking about survival. Phillips is on a mission to drive Alex McLeish towards the magical 40-point mark and finally end any lingering fears about relegation.
McLeish has performed superbly to guide the club to the top half and fans are still dreaming of a shock move towards a European place. Birmingham are only seven points behind Liverpool in fifth place and can edge even closer with a win here.
But ex-England striker Phillips has warned that Hull's shocking slide last season is proof that Birmingham won't be getting carried away.
He said: "I don't believe we will be in trouble but Fulham is an important game for us and, if we can manage to get the win that puts us on 40 points, you'd like to say that's definitely safe. Then you can start looking up and beyond.
"People are saying that Birmingham are probably safe now but you only have to look at what happened to Hull last season who only scraped it in the end so I don't want that to happen to us.
"It's been a fantastic season so far. I don't think anyone believed we'd be where we are. I think even a few of us didn't think we'd be where we are. It's been such a successful season we don't want to start getting blasé and complacent, we want to keep pushing on and try and get this club as high as we possibly can.
"At the beginning of the season, survival was the main thing and we're very close to that. Anything beyond that is a fantastic achievement especially as we haven't spent mega millions."
Strategy: Phillips is proving a potent weapon off the bench, after his stunning contribution against Wolves earlier this month, so McLeish will continue with Christian Benitez and Cameron Jerome. But Birmingham's biggest headache will be Zamora, with the Fulham striker still being whispered about as a possible England cap in the near future.
Birmingham's success this season, however, has been built on the backbone of Stephen Carr, Roger Johnson, Scott Dann and Liam Ridgewell and they will provide Zamora with a significant test today. Not to mention goalkeeper Joe Hart, who should be involved in England's friendly with Egypt next month.
Hart said: "The defence have been absolutely magnificent. 'Ridgey' has got two important goals for us recently and big Scotty is a presence in the air and it's nice for them to do it in the opposition box because they win everything at the back. Is Scotty getting the plaudits he deserves? That is not what he is really about. He has been in the leagues for a long time, is playing really well, and deserves everything he gets."
Injury Update: Birmingham striker Garry O'Connor is still struggling with a hip problem while Lee Carsley continues to recover from an ankle injury.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5449
Up next: Birmingham City (h)
by Dan on February 19, 2010
The games just keep coming for Fulham at the moment. After the glamour of Shakhtar Donetsk, a busy Birmingham side will be hoping to catch us a little cold at the Cottage on Sunday. Alex McLeish will be well aware of the threat Fulham will pose to a Blues side that has been impressive in patches on their return to the top flight this year as he was at the game last night and has previously spoken about wanting to emulate what Fulham have achieved under Roy Hodgson.
Just after Christmas, all the buzz was about McLeish and how he'd turned Birmingham into a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. The Blues might have started the season with fairly prosaic ambitions – avoiding the kind of yo-yo existence between the top flight and the Championship that has characterised their recent years – but some shrewd transfer dealings saw McLeish put together a steady side. Lee Bowyer, who has popped up to score a few crucial goals this season (including the winner against Fulham at St. Andrew's), looks an absolute steal on a free transfer from West Ham and Barry Ferguson's made a far better fist of the English game than his first effort south of the border.
The real revelations, though, were Birmingham's pair of Championship defenders. Roger Johnson's arrival from Cardiff City for £5m raised a few eyebrows, even if the man himself and his former team-mates had no doubts about his ability to step up. Johnson's been outstanding at the heart of the Birmingham defence and his importance to McLeish's set-up is shown by the fact that he's started every single league game to date. He has forged an almost impregnable partnership with Scott Dann, rumoured to have cost around £3.5m up front from Coventry in the summer, and those two have hardly put a foot wrong. Considering that conceding too many goals is the hallmark of a team that will go down, being so miserly at the back is vital to securing Premier League football.
Just as crucial to Birmingham's defensive stability has been the performances of on-loan goalkeeper Joe Hart, who was harshly cast aside by Manchester City after Shay Given signed from Newcastle. Quite how Hart hasn't forced himself more firmly into the England reckoning after all the injuries, contract negotiations and transfer rumours that have disrupted David James' season at Portsmouth, is beyond me. Hart's heroics in goal were a key factor in sustaining an almost unbelievable 15-match unbeaten run, which included draws with Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United. Beating England's most impressive keeper will be no easy task.
It would be wrong to suggest that Birmingham are just a dour, well-drilled side. They possess plenty of quality in midfield with great things expected of the highly-rated Spaniard, Michel, who arrived from Sporting Gijon in the summer. The mercurial James McFadden, who can drift deceptively in and out of games before making his mark, will also need to be watched carefully. Sebastien Larsson, a scorer against Fulham in recent seasons, has unfathomably been overlooked in a struggling Swedish national side of late but can cause problems having notched four goals already this term.
Birmingham have struggled to score goals this season but there are blessed with plenty of striking talent. Cameron Jerome scored a spectacular goal at Anfield in November and snaffled another one against Manchester United in January – and you certainly don't want to give him too much of a sight of goal. Christian Benitez might have struggled to adjust to both the pace and physical nature of the Premier League but he'll be a lively customer up front and, just in case you'd forgotten, Kevin Phillips' timely brace the other week to beat Wolves showed that he's not lost the killer instinct in front of goal.
How Fulham respond after their European high will be particuarly interesting. Such a hard taskmaster as Hodgson will not tolerate any slacking and it will be interesting to see whether he tweaks a formation that worked so successfully on Thursday night. His main choice will be whether to move Zoltan Gera from the advanced position in 'the hole' where he clearly thrives in favour of giving Bobby Zamora a more orthodox partner up front. The only other change should see Nicky Shorey replace Stephen Kelly at left back.
MY FULHAM XI (4-4-1-1): Schwarzer; Baird, Shorey, Hughes, Hangeland; Etuhu, Murphy, Duff, Davies; Gera; Zamora. Subs: Zuberbuhler, Smalling, Greening, Riise, Nevland, Okaka, Elm.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5460
Shakhtar centre back on Zamora's goal
by Dan on February 19, 2010
Olexander Kucher sums up the Fulham winner better than anyone else for me.
By the way, the second shot was an extremely crazy one.
Spot on. Good old Bobby Zamora.
http://www.rs.goal.com/en/news/1863/world-cup-2010/2010/02/19/1798103/england-comment-fulhams-bobby-zamora-deserves-a-chance-to
England Comment: Fulham's Bobby Zamora Deserves A Chance To Gatecrash Fabio Capello's World Cup Squad
In-form Cottagers striker should win first cap for Egypt friendly
By Jamie Dunn
Feb 19, 2010 2:41:00 PM
While the column inches surrounding England manager Fabio Capello's next squad selection have been dominated by two defenders – John Terry and Wayne Bridge – for reasons far removed from matters on the pitch, at the other end, Fulham's Bobby Zamora has been staking a claim for a place in England's World Cup squad.
Capello is set to announce his squad for the March 3 friendly against Egypt on the weekend of the February 27/28 - and with chances to impress prior to this summer's pinnacle of international football limited to a selected few outings, Zamora, 29, must now be in the Italian's thoughts as he continues to blossom under Fulham manager Roy Hodgson.
It has been a long road for Bobby Zamora. After impressing at Brighton and Hove Albion, a move to Tottenham Hotspur turned sour as he failed to hold down a place in the starting XI in a handful of appearances at White Hart Lane.
At West Ham United he showed early promise but his stay ended unceremoniously as he departed for Fulham in 2008. His lack of goals had been a source of frustration for a number of years.
Under Hodgson this season though, Zamora may have finally cracked it - just in time for a summer trip to South Africa. Often leading the line alone for the southwest London club, Zamora has grasped his raw ability by the scruff of the neck in 2009/10 and has shown the qualities - strength, power, pace and an eye for goal - he had only alluded to in fits and starts in the past.
The Cottagers front man set about displaying some of those qualities inside just three minutes at Craven Cottage on Thursday night. Fulham raced out of the blocks, pressing an otherwise dominant Shakhtar Donetsk side early on and when the ball fell to Zamora, he expertly held off a challenge and cushioned the ball into the path of Zoltan Gera, who slotted home for a dream start.
Zamora regularly showcased his ability as a target man for the duration, winning headers and running the channels to great effect, but the icing on the cake was his stunning 63rd-minute strike, turning to hammer the ball off the underside of the crossbar from 20 yards, in a game where genuine chances were few and far between.
It was an historic night for Fulham, beating the reigning UEFA Cup champions, but for Zamora, Thursday night's performance was just another game in an already impressive season. The former West Ham man has now bagged 14 goals in 32 appearances in all competitions, shrugging off a broken collarbone picked up against Stoke in January that pundits and analysts feared would derail his season to notch three strikes upon his return.
The chants of "When the ball hits your head/and you're sat in row Z/that's Zamora," may have been silenced, but the forward remains an unglamorous choice amongst England fans. With the groans at Emile Heskey's every touch of the ball becoming more and more audible with each international, the nation is seemingly crying out for Tottenham's Jermain Defoe to partner the rampant Wayne Rooney in South Africa.
For all of Defoe's 21 goals this season, and indeed similar returns from Sunderland's Darren Bent (16) and Heskey's Aston Villa strike partner Gabriel Agbonlahor (12), Capello's unwavering stance suggests he is likely to stick with the successful system that takes the Three Lions to the World Cup and sees a 'big man' partnering Rooney in attack. Of all the archetypal English target men in the Premier League, Zamora is the in-form option, looking unplayable at times.
Zamora so nearly closed the door on a call-up to any possible future England squad himself as he reportedly flirted with the idea of playing for Trinidad and Tobago, the country of his father's origin.
But if he continues to cause problems for helpless defenders while finding the net with regularity in the process, Capello should put a cap on his head at Wembley Stadium next month to avoid letting the late-blooming 29-year-old slip through his fingers.
http://www.fsf.org.uk/ground-guide/international-clubs/Shakhtar-Donetsk/
Shakhtar Donetsk
Ground Name: Donbass Arena
Nicknames: Hirnyky (The Miners), Kroty (The Moles)
Division: Ukranian Premier Liha
Telephone No: +38 062 387 0102, +38 062 387 0103
Website: Official Club Website
Home Kit
Orange Shirts, Black Shorts
Away Kit
All White
General Introduction
Formed in 1936, Donetsk are now one of the premier sides in the Ukraine, and its current champions. Knocked out of the Group C of Champions League in 3rd place behind Barcelona and Sporting Lisbon they went on to win the UEFA Cup in the 2008-09 season.
As with all of our guides, if there is anything missing from the following pages that you need to know then feel free to drop us an email and we'll do our best to find it out for you.
Brief Club History
The team has played under the following names: Stakhanovets (1936-1946), Shakhtyor (1946-1992) and FC Shakhtar (since 1992). Shakhtar are one of 5 sides to have competed in every Premier Liha season since the end of the Soviet Vysshaya Liga in 1991.
Fans & Foes
Shakhtar's biggest rivals are Dynamo Kyiv. Since the inaugural Premier Liha season in 1991 was won by SC Tavriya Simferopol every championship has gone to one of the two sides, meaning that while not geographically particularly close there is still a strong rivalry between the two sides.
Their other main rivalry, with Metalurh Donetsk, is a local affair, and although perhaps not as significant as games against their rivals from the capital, they are still keenly contested. The games between the two sides are known as the Donbass Derby, named after the region of which Donetsk is the capital.
Shakhtar's anthem, translated into English, is below:
Glory to you, Shakhtar!
Heavens of football stars
Will always be on your side,
And the light of your best dreams
Is shining from above.
Chorus:
Beauty of green fields, that's for you, Shakhtar.
My fate is in your hands, you are the best, Shakhtar.
And for you, Shakhtar, the medal of my love
Will always shine on the pitch where you are,
And forever will protect you from defeat
The brightest football star!
Club Honours
Shakhtar are 4-times winners of the Ukrainian Championship, founded in 1992, including 3 titles in the last 4 seasons, and have finished as runners-up on 9 occasions. They have also won the Ukranian Cup 6 times since 1995.
They were twice runners-up of the USSR Championship in the 1970s, and won the old USSR Cup 4 times before the fall of the Soviet Union.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/feb/19/squad-sheets-fulham-birmingham-city
Squad sheets: Fulham v Birmingham City
guardian.co.uk, Friday 19 February 2010 18.26 GMT
Birmingham have begun to drift back towards a position in the table more suited to a well drilled but limited team. The return of Christian Benítez from injury will aid their cause but until they can find a regular goalscorer it is unlikely that they will finish higher than Fulham, a side who are similar in many ways but possess slightly more unpredictability and penetration. A narrow home win in a low-scoring game looks the most likely outcome, and that will be enough to lift Roy Hodgson's men above Alex McLeish's team, which is where they belong, at least for now. Paul Doyle
Venue Craven Cottage
Tickets £30-40 (0870 442 1234)
Last season n/a
Referee P Dowd
This season's matches 21 Y67, R4, 3.38 cards per game
Odds Fulham 15-13 Birmingham 11-4 Draw 23-10
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Sport/Pix/pictures/2010/2/19/1266603181572)
Probable starters in bold, contenders in light.
Fulham
Subs from Zuberbühler, Kelly, Stoor, Konchesky, Smalling, Greening, Riise, Nevland, Okaka, Elm, Milsom
Doubtful Gera (knee), Konchesky (foot)
Injured Dempsey (knee, 27 Mar), Dikgacoi (ankle, 27 Mar), Paintsil (knee, Apr), Johnson (knee, May)
Suspended None
Form guide WDWLLL
Disciplinary record Y28 R1
Leading scorer Zamora 7
Birmingham
Subs from Doyle, Taylor, Murphy, Phillips, Míchel, Fahey, Queudrue, Parnaby, O'Shea, Vignal, Tainio, Gardner
Doubtful Tainio (knee)
Injured Carsley (ankle, 6 Mar), O'Connor (hip, 13 Mar)
Suspended None
Form guide LWDLDW
Disciplinary record Y49 R1
Leading scorers Bowyer, Jerome 5
Match pointers
• Fulham have kept five clean sheets in their last six games at Craven Cottage
• Four of Lee Bowyer's five Premier League goals this season have come against sides from London
• Fulham have scored a higher proportion of their goals in the second half (67%) than any other side
• After going five away games without defeat, Birmingham have lost their last two without scoring
• Fulham have lost four of the five league games in which Chris Smalling has appeared this season
http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/default.aspx?Tab=1&Page=6&Article=1550
Club Focus - Fulham - Zamora teaches European masters a lesson
By Matt Domm
It really is game on in the Europa League Round of 32 as Fulham take a one-goal lead into the second leg. At the same time Bobby Zamora did his England chances no harm with a neat assist before firing in the winner - the best goal Cottagers fans have celebrated at home for quite some time.
Shakhtar passed the ball as well as any visiting side has done all season, and at times their movement would not have been out of place in a Champions League final. But Fulham - as they have showed signs of being recently - were at their resilient best, and Zamora punished the pretty yet non-clinical Ukrainians in the best imaginable fashion. Indeed throughout the game, when the Whites weren't chasing shadows, the rekindled partnership of Zamora and Zoltan Gera was a thorn in Shakhtar's side. The two players made the most of somewhat limited chances, combining for both goals - the first Gera finished after being slipped through by Zamora, and then the Hungarian himself neatly flicked the ball for Zamora's stunner. The goals were the most telling examples of their shrewd link-up play, but were by no means isolated examples. On many occasions Gera dropped off for a Zamora knockdown or pushed up for a flick-on, and several other times the Hungarian fell into the midfield to try and play his partner through, and indeed help win the ball back from the crisp-passing visitors. Gera has impressed almost every time he has played in his preferred position just off the striker, especially in Europe, and with Roy Hodgson's striking options limited - Diomansy Kamara on loan at Celtic, Stefano Okaka still learning the ropes, Andy Johnson out for the season and Erik Nevland more effective as a substitute - the former West Brom man looks the best bet to partner Zamora.
The England hopeful's name is carved into the teamsheet whenever he is fit, such has been his turnaround in club form this season. His strike against Shakhtar was his 14th in 31 appearances in all competitions this season - a ratio of almost one goal in every two games, which has been a completely unheard of statistic at Fulham since Louis Saha was scoring for fun at the Cottage, 15 in 22 before his move to Manchester United. And such a return from a striker makes a welcome change for fans who have barely seen their forwards reach double figures since that remarkable Saha campaign. In fact, Zamora's strike last night makes him the most prolific forward since then, with Andy Cole next on the list with his 13 scored in the 2005/06 season - from 40 appearances. When he plays as he did against the Ukrainian side the tag of being the most prolific Fulham player in six years is fully justified. He can battle with even the toughest of Eastern European centre-backs and has a touch that belies his physical stature. In short, he is a real handful at any given time, but when his confidence grows as it has done this season he is close to unplayable - words that have rarely been used to describe a Fulham player since the aforementioned Saha was strutting his stuff. The goal was no more than he deserved on the night, and the win was earned by the whole team, despite them for long periods having to watch what resembled a game of Total Action Football.
It was hard-fought, but now there are only a few days for the players to recover before the Premier League comes to the fore once again. A different challenge entirely awaits Hodgson's troops this weekend, as instead of being on the receiving end of a dazzling passing display they will be expected to be the football-playing team. The fixture gives the Whites a chance to breath down their weekend opponents' necks in the league table as the momentum continues to gather following last night's confidence-heightening victory. Of course, Alex McLeish's charges did not have the energy-sapping tie that Hodgson's did, so they will likely come out lively for the result. The result will largely be decided on which aspect in football is more important, freshness or momentum.
If Fulham can keep tight at the back and prolific going forward, then the run of wins could easily continue, but if weariness starts to set in then the tie could go either way.
Fulham V Blues Match Preview
http://www.bcfc.com/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10412~1969932,00.html
Fulham v BIRMINGHAM: Alex McLeish sticks with same squad for trip to the capital
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 4:01 PM on 19th February 2010
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has no fresh injury worries ahead of the Barclays Premier League clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
McLeish is to keep faith with the 18 players on duty in last Saturday's FA Cup fifth round win over Derby at Pride Park.
The former Scotland boss has more midfield options after the arrival of Craig Gardner and Michel during the January transfer window.
He left out James McFadden and Sebastian Larsson for the previous league game at West Ham 10 days ago and brought in Gardner and Keith Fahey as the wide players.
Birmingham (from): Hart, Carr, Johnson, Dann, Ridgewell, Larsson, Bowyer, Ferguson, McFadden, Jerome, Benitez, Taylor, Phillips, Michel, Fahey, Parnaby, Vignal, Gardner.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1252347/Fulham-v-BIRMINGHAM-Alex-McLeish-sticks-squad-trip-capital.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0g1hHQpeL (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1252347/Fulham-v-BIRMINGHAM-Alex-McLeish-sticks-squad-trip-capital.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0g1hHQpeL)
Fulham chief Mohamed Al Fayed forced to apologise after Europa League opponents Shakhtar Donetsk are refused entry to Harrods
By Ashley Gray
Last updated at 5:33 PM on 19th February 2010
Mohamed Al Fayed has tried to see off revenge from Shakhtar Donetsk by apologising to the team for their lock-out from Harrods.
Fayed's grandiose London department store refused to let the Ukrainian team in for a spot of souvenir shopping when they turned up in a large group wearing tracksuits.
Fulham, also owned by the businessman, followed up the snub by beating Shakhtar 2-1 in the Europa League last 32 first leg.
But with the return match looming in Donetsk next Thursday, the UEFA Cup holders revealed Fayed had been building bridges.
'The store's owner has made apologies for that incident,' Shakhtar said on their website.
'Mohamed Al Fayed assured that there must have been some misunderstanding.
'On the contrary, he would be happy to see Shakhtar players at his shops. The billionaire is very upset over this incident and made his apology.'
'Shakhtar's CEO Sergiy Palkin has let Rinat Akhmetov, the president of the club, know about such regrets. The apologies are accepted. The issue is settled.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1252341/Fulham-chief-Mohamed-Al-Fayed-forced-apologise-Europa-League-opponents-Shakhtar-Donetsk-refused-entry-Harrods.html#ixzz0g1hnbHLp (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1252341/Fulham-chief-Mohamed-Al-Fayed-forced-apologise-Europa-League-opponents-Shakhtar-Donetsk-refused-entry-Harrods.html#ixzz0g1hnbHLp)
http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/02/fulham-2-1-shaktar-donetsk.html
Fulham 2 -1 Shaktar Donetsk
What a buzzing evening that was! We took advantage of the cup game by switching our seats to the middle of the Hammy End, much closer to the chanting and a greater view of the action and boy did it pay off for this match. Plenty of shouting and the best 'you're poo aaaaaaaah' at the opposition keeper for an age.
I was surprised at the strength of the team Hodgson put out, especially with high flying Birmingham coming on Sunday, but as soon as I realised Gera would be playing as a support striker I made my way to the ridiculously ramshackle Ladbrokes booth, which for once didn't have a cast of thousands queuing in front of it, and stuck a fiver on him to score the first goal at 8/1. I didn't expect it to happen that quickly though! Gera has played exceptionally well in that position, especially in Europe, and tonight was no different. But having seen a replay, the goalie should have done far better.
However this just riled Shaktar, who have a horrible sub-Hull City kit. The next 43 minutes was all the visitors. They must have had 70 per cent possession at least. The strange formation meant that when the ball broke to Murphy or Etuhu, there were five Shaktar players around them and this basically nullified their threat. Etuhu in particular was very poor, giving the ball away needlessly when he did win it or going constantly backwards when found with a pass. Meanwhile the Ukrainians, with a Brazilian 'front five' calmly pinged the ball to each other. The good thing for Fulham was that this was mainly occurring in front of the solid back four, with Duff and Davies doing sterling work helping out the full backs when needed. The one time that Shaktar did get behind the defensive line, partly due to Hughes' poor decision to step up to try and catch Adriano offside, Shaktar scored a deserved equaliser. During the game, Adriano's angled run made it look like Kelly was at fault, but he was mainly blameless for the goal and all match was reasonably solid. Far better than his recent appearances anyway.
Somehow Fulham got to half time without conceding again. But the second half began in the most peculiar fashion. Shaktar again dominated possession for the first ten minutes of the half, but didn't do anything with it. They just passed it among their defenders around their own penalty area. It was like watching old matches featuring Liverpool from the 1980s before the backpass rule was introduced. They were content with their away goal and didn't want the scoreline to change much, so wasted a bit of time. Either that or they were trying to somewhat childishly trying to draw Fulham forward in order to create room behind them. They should know better than to try that against a team drilled by Roy Hodgson. They were fleet on the break though and a few times after Fulham had enjoyed half chances they shot up the other end and won corners. It's hard to want the team to push on when there's that kind of sucker punch lurking behind.
I did think that Gera should have dropped deeper to help out the struggling midfield a bit or that Davies and Duff should switch wings to try some crosses instead of having to continually cut inside, which Shaktar were well prepared against.
It began to resemble a more even football match after that though and Fulham even enjoyed some possession without doing much with it. Then BANG. Zamora ran onto the ball with a little bit of space on the edge of the area and absolutely twatted it. I thought he'd easily cleared the bar, but instead it had bounced down from it into the back of the net. Absolutely incredible. And not at all deserved. But who cares? He should have got another with a far post header, but contrived to push it wide. Maybe next week, Bobby?
Will 2-1 be enough? Probably not. Shaktar seem to have a habit of winning 2-0 at home in Europe and they are a considerably talented side. But many wrote off Fulham's chances (ie me) when they needed an away win in Basel. Roy's team is capable of anything.
Attendance: Me, Jarrod, Loz & Nicky
http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/the-back-door-into-europe.html
The back door into Europe
By: timmyg | February 19th, 2010
Fulham may be going back to Europe next season — and not just by winning the FA Cup.
If you listened to the latest podcast, I mentioned that Fulham currently lead the Fair Play Table with a six point lead over Manchester City. It can be found here, but below it is in full:
(http://fulham.theoffside.com/files/2010/02/fair-play.jpg)
If that wasn't good news enough, England are currently third in the latest UEFA Fair Play Table; just one-thousandth of a point behind second place Denmark. The complete listing was released last month but I just found it today. It can be found here.
The top three nations that lead the UEFA Fair Play table have their respective leaders qualify for the Europa League's First Qualifying Round, which kicks off the first week of July. Last season Fulham lead the table, but England finished a lowly seventh. In 2008-09 Manchester City were just 8/10ths of a point ahead of Fulham to nick that UEFA spot.
Hopefully the rest of England can keep on their best behaviour so we may have another European tour. And this is yet another testament to Roy Hodgson' s managing expertise: in his three seasons at the helm Fulham have finished 2nd, 1st, and now are en route to another 1st place finish.
It's like that quote that I cannot find a source for: "Losing at Fulham is a little like being mugged at an art gallery. It's so civilised you don't notice the blood on the carpet."
http://www.fulhamusa.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=936
Fulham Record Famous Win Against UEFA Cup Champions
The Whites got the game off to a fantastic start; a Damien Duff free kick had Shakhtar in trouble almost immediately off the bat, allowing Brede Hangeland to aim his header on target and forcing a fine save from Pyatov.
The Whites took the lead only moments later when a wonderful piece of deceptive play from Bobby Zamora allowed European specialist Zoltan Gera in on goal. The Hungarian international made no mistake with his finish, slotting a low shot under the body of Pyatov to hand Fulham the lead.
But there were soon nervy moments for Fulham when Brede Hangeland was robbed of possession on the touchline by Fernandinho, who raced away towards the Fulham by-line. Fortunately his cross was blocked by Aaron Hughes and the danger was averted.
The game settled down somewhat following Fulham's flying start and it was Shakhtar who were dictating the pace of the game. Their unorthodox 4-2-3-1 formation looked to be keeping the Whites off balance.
The visitors, despite not being able to find space in front of Fulham's penalty area, still looked extremely adept in possession as they worked the ball from left to right with great skill. Fulham stood firm however and stoically maintained their shape.
Darijo Srna, who previously faced the Whites in European competition with Hajduk Split, went close to netting an equaliser when he fired wide on 30 minutes. It proved to be just a warning shot as Adriano got the visitors back on level footing on 32 minutes. The striker raced on to a through ball, nipping in front of Stephen Kelly before taking the ball around Mark Schwarzer and passing into the net.
The game started to open up following the equaliser and Simon Davies came close to putting the Whites back in the lead when his header from a Damien Duff cross flashed just wide of the goal.
A loose ball from Danny Murphy was almost capitalised upon by Willian, who seized possession and let fly with a fierce shot which was well blocked by Hughes. Fulham's Northern Ireland international was again Fulham's saviour when he provided a vital interception on 40 minutes to cut out a dangerous final pass.
The Craven Cottage crowd were whipped up into frenzy when Darijo Srna was booked for dissent in the closing stages of the first-half, having been fouled moments before.
Shakhtar got the second-half under way, with Fulham facing a tough task in trying to wrestle the advantage from their opponents. And it was certainly a cautious start from the visitors as they looked to draw Fulham's sting, having learned their lesson from the first-half.
With the visitors quick to try and prevent Fulham from linking up their defence and midfield, the Whites duly adapted to the circumstances and started played a slightly more direct game. As a result, Fulham were able to get at Shakhtar's defence with greater speed – causing a degree of panic in the Miners' back line. Shakhtar were by no means looking as fluid as they did in the first-half.
With the game repeatedly punctuated by stoppages, both sides were struggling to get into their rhythm. If anything was going to decide this game, it was going to be a moment of brilliance or a calamitous error.
As the second-half progressed Fulham started to establish more of a rhythm, it was achieved by making the game more 'English' in nature.
The high tempo Fulham were setting was personified by Damien Duff on the right wing, who was keeping his opposing numbers busy.
The Whites re-took the lead in spectacular fashion through Bobby Zamora on 63 minutes. Zoltan Gera passed into the path of Zamora on the edge of the area and the Fulham font man smashed a glorious right-footed shot past Pyatov into the top corner of the net.
A fine move between Baird and Duff set up Gera with a headed chance which was put just wide – Fulham were certainly pressing their advantage. When not in possession the Whites were keeping things tight. This saw Shakhtar hitting more long passes out of play in an attempt to find a way through Fulham's lines.
With the game entering the final ten minutes Shakhtar started to force their way back into the game, but resilient defending from Hangeland and Hughes helped restrict the Ukrainians to shots from distance.
Zoltan Gera's involvement ended on 88 minutes when he was replaced by David Elm as Fulham looked to see out the remaining minutes.
The result was secured when a world-class save from Mark Schwarzer denied a certain equaliser late on and despite the energetic efforts of Mircea Lucescu's men, Fulham heroically held of for a memorable victory.
Posted by: AmericanMike on Friday, February 19, 2010 - 06:28 AM
http://hammyend.com/?p=5446
Mad but true
by Dan on February 19, 2010
Take a look at this from Sky Sports:
Possession
Fulham: 30.1%
Shakhtar: 69.9%
Territory
Fulham: 50%
Shakhtar: 50%
Another Roy Hodgson masterstroke?
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/34445/Busy_Fulham_eye_top-half_finish.aspx
Busy Fulham eye top-half finish
Author: Nigel Brown
Posted on:19 February 2010 - 12:10 PM
Birmingham City travel to Craven Cottage on Saturday hoping to rediscover the form which saw them win five games in a row during November and December.
Alex McLeish's charges have managed just one win in their last five Premier League games and, on Saturday, face a Fulham team that have won two of their last three games, drawing the other one and keeping a clean sheet in all three.
The Cottagers have been particularly strong at their west London home, winning seven and losing just one of their last ten Premier League fixtures at their Thames-side ground.
Fulham's great home form is the main reason why they are currently sitting in tenth place, a position that many people, including manager Roy Hodgson is proud of.
Hodgson has revealed that: "Everyone realises our players have done an exceptional job and have punched above their weight for a period of time and continue to do so."
Conversely, the Blues have struggled on their travels in recent weeks, losing both their last two away games and failing to score in either.
They will hope that Lee Bowyer is in the mood once again. The tenacious midfielder has scored four goals in his six Premier League appearances against London sides this term already.
It was Bowyer that scored the only goal of the game in their Premier League meeting earlier this season, as Birmingham defeated the Cottagers 1-0 at St Andrew's.
Fulham will hope to win only their second match in six league attempts against City, and will be buoyed by the fact that the Blues have failed to find the net on their last two visits to Craven Cottage.
Birmingham go in to the match with no fresh injury concerns or suspensions, but Fulham will be missing South African midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi following his recent ankle injury. However, they could welcome back the creative Zoltan Gera.
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/02/19/fulham-defender-aaron-hughes-sends-shakhtar-warning-82029-25871147/
Fulham defender Aaron Hughes sends Shakhtar warning
Feb 19 2010 By Jacob Murtagh
AARON Hughes has warned the job is only half done after Fulham' win over Shakhtar Donetsk last night.
The Whites head to Ukraine with a slender 2-1 lead thanks to goals from Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora.
And Hughes admits they still have it all to do to set up a Europa League last-16 clash with Ajax or Juventus.
He said: "We're only halfway there. We got a good win last night but it's only half the job and there's still a lot of work to be done.
"We're pretty pleased we've got a 2-1 win against a very good side.
"It's going to be a tough match over there. It's a fantastic surface and they'll be popping the ball around, but we know we can pass it around on a nice surface too."
http://hammyend.com/?p=5440
Shape and stuff
by Dan on February 19, 2010
There are so many things to talk about last night. Fulham's rip-roaring start where we really went for the throat of the opposition, Shakhtar's mesmorising passing and Bobby's thunderbolt that rocketed in off the crossbar. What fascinated me was the tactical battle between the two sides.
Shakhtar adopted a formation that is rarely seen in these parts. The only thing you could recognise from an English point of view was a back four, although that was hardly a standard British back line. The full backs pulled out regularly to the touchline and the centre backs were ball players. In front of them were two central midfielders, but neither were anchors, stoppers or holding midfielders. To describe Fernandinho, who seemed to have the ball glued to his feet at times, as anything like that would be ridiculously insulting to his outrageous ability.
The South American rhythm of the side was evident from the fact that Mircea Lucescu's team included an all-Brazilian front five. Ilsinho showed his quality with a remarkably perceptive searching pass to release the deadly Luiz Adriano, who seems a snip at just £2m, for the equaliser whilst we can expect a higher quality performance from Jadson in the second leg. At times, it seemed as though Shakhtar were passing through us at will, although on reflection that doesn't really do justice to some diligent defensive work, including a couple of terrific saving tackles from Aaron Hughes.
Hodgson's tactics were constrained by the ineligbility of Stefano Okaka and injuries to our other forwards. The flexibility of Fulham's formation allowed Zoltan Gera to line up just behind Bobby Zamora and the Hungarian revelled in the space he found. The goal Fulham worked inside the opening minutes was a think of beauty. Bobby might have benefited from a missed interception from Kucher and Pyatov might have saved Gera's shot, but it was a slick move worthy of Shakhtar.
(http://this11.com/boards/1266582192536718.jpg)
It's clear that Gera benefits from playing in advance of a set midfield rather than wider in an orthodox midfield. He has greater scope to influence the game than when he is restricted to a particular flank and, when closer to a centre forward, the flicks and tricks he brings to the party have the potential to be much more effective (see Zamora's stunning winner). Gera's been much more influential in Europe playing in this role (see his goals against CSKA Sofia and FC Basel) and I'd be tempted to try him here with a little more regularity in the league.
It would be interesting to gauge Zamora's thoughts on his role as a lone striker. The number of times he lifted his arm and gesticulated to Schwarzer or a defender to play the ball in his direction suggests he thrives on being the target man and the interplay between him, Gera, Duff and Simon Davies was excellent at times. The confidence is coarsing through Zamora's veins and his finish was absolutely astonishing. There's every chance Roy Hodgson will have to set a higher target than 20 goals before the season's out at this rate.
The only thing that troubled me was the disappointing distribution of Dickson Etuhu. The Nigerian looks good against the likes of Portsmouth and Burnley – and would be particularly useful for some of the pitched battles we seem to fight away from home – but he seems frustratingly limited at this level. When he wasn't nervously turning away from goal and sending the ball backwards, Etuhu placed an alarming high number of passes straight to the opposition. He might just be coming back from the Africa Cup of Nations but we'll need a more disciplined performance from him in Donetsk next week.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7270056/Debate-should-Fulhams-Bobby-Zamora-be-considered-for-Englands-World-Cup-squad.html
Debate: should Fulham's Bobby Zamora be considered for England's World Cup squad?
After Bobby Zamora inspired Fulham to an impressive Europa League victory over current holders Shakhtar Donetsk, and with England's striking options beyond Wayne Rooney limited, should the forward be considered for Fabio Capello's World Cup squad?
Published: 11:14AM GMT 19 Feb 2010
Comments 17 | Comment on this article
Zamora was exceptional against the Ukranians, setting up Zoltan Gera's opening goal and securing a 2-1 victory with a stunning 25-yard strike.
His club manager Roy Hodgson praised the former Brighton striker's all-round game as well as his recent prolific form that has seen him score 14 goals in 31 appearances this season.
"Apart from his usual accomplished performance as a target player, setting things up, winning challenges and working very hard, his touch for the first goal was excellent, a touch of real quality," said Hodgson.
Zamora's strength and power, along with his ability to hold up the ball and bring others in to play could be the perfect foil for Rooney should Capello elect to start with two strikers in the World Cup finals in South Africa.
Emile Heskey has played that role in the past but Zamora carries more of a goal threat to go along with the work rate and ability to give opposition defences a physical battle.
Darren Bent and Carlton Cole appear to be challenging Heskey for a place in the squad and Zamora has the pace and strength to match either the Sunderland or West Ham striker.
Questions remain over Zamora's consistency and a previous best Premier League goals haul of 11 does not guarantee goals at the highest level but Capello is insistent that he will select his squad on form not reputation.
Has Zamora's recent success been timed perfectly to earn him a surprise place on the plane or will the fact that he plays for one of the less fashionable clubs in the top flight and a lack of Champions League experience count against him?
Have your say below...
http://www.scarborougheveningnews.co.uk/sport/Greening-backs-stadium-calls.6090240.jp
Greening backs stadium calls
By Staff Copy
JONO Greening believes that new footballing facilities in Scarborough are vital.
The 31-year-old, who has just signed a three-year deal with FA Cup quarter-finalists Fulham, graced the Athletic Ground's terraces on hundreds of occasions to watch Scarborough FC when he was growing up as a youngster in the town.
But now, with the club's former base lying in tatters, Greening is backing calls for a new ground to be built.
Jono's younger brother Josh plays for Scarborough Town at Pindar, while the other senior side - Scarborough Athletic -are turning out at Bridlington for their home games.
The Premiership midfielder said: "It is a huge shame what happened to the old club and now the old ground.
"I hear the odd thing about what is happening now from my mum and dad, but it is clear that a town the size of Scarborough does need a decent football stadium.
"I used to go down to the Athletic Ground as a boy with my dad and brothers. I was there for some important games, the most recent being the FA Cup match against Chelsea in 2004, when Scarborough were unlucky to lose.
"When I first talk to players about where I am from, a lot of them have good memories of Scarborough.
"I was chatting to my Fulham teammate Danny Murphy the other day about when he played there, he said it had an amazing atmosphere for a small ground."
Jono has also been keeping check on the playing situation in Scarborough and says that making any strides back up the football ladder will be difficult with two senior sides competing in the town's name.
He added: "I'm not really sure which club has taken over form the old Scarborough. I know Josh plays for Town and I know somebody else who plays for Athletic.
"I'm sure the fans know a bit more about it than me, but I do think that football would move a lot quicker in the town if there was one side instead of two.
"At the moment there is a split in fans, but if one club could get everyone together then I'm sure it would improve the situation and a team could move up the footballing ladder a fair bit quicker."
http://www.espnstar.com/football/premier-league/news/detail/item399982/Schwarzer-enjoying-fixture-pile-up/
Schwarzer enjoying fixture pile-up
Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer insists he is thriving amid a punishing schedule which resumes with Sunday's league clash with Birmingham.
The Cottagers are nearing the end of a five-week period which has seen them play a match virtually every three days yet defy the workload by continuing to challenge for silverware on two fronts.
They have reached the quarter-finals of the FA Cup while on Thursday night they humbled 2009 UEFA Cup winners Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 in the first leg of their Europa League last 32 match.
But rather than complain about the fixture list, veteran stopper Schwarzer is pleased the matches are arriving thick and fast.
"If you don't enjoy this as a footballer then when are you going to enjoy your football?" the Australian said.
"This is what it's all about, playing games, and playing in Europe and playing in the FA Cup and playing in the Premier League.
"It's the best life to have and I'm enjoying it, at the young and tender age of 37."
Schwarzer, who pulled off a marvellous injury-time save to deny Shakhtar a draw, admits next Thursday's second leg at the Donbass Arena will test Fulham's Europa League ambitions to the limit.
"It's about balance. Okay, we scored two goals on Thursday but we also conceded. Now they only need to score one goal," he said.
"It would have been nice to have won 2-0 ahead and then all of a sudden they've got to score two goals.
"But if we score over there, all of a sudden it changes the picture a little bit. It's going to be tough for us.
"We've got a slightly important Premier League game against Birmingham in between but then hopefully we can go there and continue on the journey that we've been having."
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-feeling-effects-of-Cup-success-says-Roy-Hodgson-article328417.html
Fulham feeling effects of Cup success, says Roy Hodgson
Published 05:00 20/02/10
By Neil McLeman
Roy Hodgson has admitted his Fulham side are paying the price of fighting on three fronts this season.
The Europa League win over Shakhtar Donetsk was the Cottagers' 41st game of a gruelling season which began way back in July.
And Hodgson admitted his depleted squad, who are also in the last eight of the FA Cup, were running on empty before hosting Birmingham tomorrow.
"Now it is just a question of recovery," said the Whites boss, who face the second leg in Ukraine on Thursday.
"This win taken a lot out of us tonight. This result comes at a price - the prize of fatigue, tired legs and minds. We have a lot of tired players.
"Our next two days are going to be very much a question of trying to get ourselves ready mentally and physically for the next challenge because Birmingham will be a different kind of team from the team we played in the Europa league but they will be as every bit as difficult to beat.
"This is a our third week running where we have played three games in a week and we have got another three weeks in front of us of doing the same. And we are doing all this with a very small group of players."
But keeper Mark Schwarzer, who produced a fingertip injury-time save to guarantee the 2-1 victory over the Brazilian-inspired Ukrainian side, has no complaints.
"If you don't enjoy it as a footballer then when are you going to enjoy your football?" asked the Aussie.
"This is what it's all about, playing games, and playing in Europe and playing in the FA Cup and playing in the Premier League. It's the best life to have and I'm enjoying it, at the young and tender age of 37."
Captain Danny Murphy has revealed he is continuing to play despite the "impending arrival" of his second child his wife Joanna Taylor. "It is due any day now," he admitted. "Hopefully it will be either before or after the match."
That is quite appropriate as Wenger should see the Knightsbridge store's owner - and Fulham chairman - Mohamed Fayed about his keeper Mark Schwarzer.
The Gunners missed a trick when they failed to sign Shay Given when he left Newcastle for Manchester City.
First-choice Manuel Almunia and understudy Lukasz Fabianski, despite his errors in Portugal, are good keepers. But to be champions you need an exceptional one.
Cottagers star Schwarzer is a top-four keeper in waiting. He knows the league and age isn't so important for keepers.
At 37 he is not a long-term solution but with so many young stars in his squad, Wenger needs to worry about the short-term. In a couple of years he could then move for Real Madrid's Iker Casillas.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/sunsport_columnists/2861268/Ditch-principles-and-buy-now-Terry-Venables-tells-Arsene-Wenger.html#ixzz0g3p8kLT0 (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/sunsport_columnists/2861268/Ditch-principles-and-buy-now-Terry-Venables-tells-Arsene-Wenger.html#ixzz0g3p8kLT0)
Fast Track
Saturday 20th February 2010
Fulham FC News
It was the match that arguably signalled the arrival of Kagisho Dikgacoi as a fully fledged First Team player.
At the Reebok Stadium in early February Dikgacoi dominated the midfield battle against Bolton Wanderers before Fulham's winter injury curse struck again as the South African hobbled off the pitch with a knee injury just before the hour mark.
Despite the injury setback Fulham's supporters could not help but be enthused by Dikgacoi's performance; a player whose game seems perfectly suited to the high octane pace of the Barclays Premier League.
When fulhamfc.com caught up with KG this week, he was evidently focused on the positives as he discussed a possible return from injury in the next few weeks.
"At least the injury came well before the World Cup," said Dikgacoi. "From my point of view I was really enjoying the game against Bolton and I was unlucky to get injured just ten minutes into the second half. It was really unfortunate.
"Right now I'm just looking forward to being back in the starting eleven and I'm pushing myself hard to get back as quick as possible. I'm hoping that I'll be starting to train again in two weeks time. The Club's Medical team have also been working really hard on the injury."
Dikgacoi has seemingly made a smooth transition from the Golden Arrows to Fulham and his progress is certainly being monitored by his family and friends back home, who were justifiably concerned by his recent injury ahead of this summer's World Cup Finals in South Africa.
"I'm happy with what I've been doing and I think tactically I've improved, as have my reactions and speed. I think I've improved most areas of my game and I'm looking forward to progressing further but it's up to me to continue working hard.
"My mum and my friends call me after the games if they've been watching them. They watch a lot of Premier League games back home. Most of them called after the Bolton game to check the injury wasn't serious and that it wouldn't affect me for the World Cup.
"I'm really looking forward to the World Cup, especially as we're the hosts. The World Cup is obviously very important to me but it's also important that I play games before then."
Dikgacoi could be in line for a memorable few months on the domestic and international stage if results go Fulham's way over the next few weeks. The chance of being involved in the later stages of the UEFA Europa League and FA Cup are the stuff dreams are made of and Dikgacoi makes no secret of his desire to experience such moments.
"Of course I've thought about playing at Wembley," said Dikgacoi. "Everyone loves to play in the FA Cup and it would be very special for Fulham to get to Wembley. Not only in the FA Cup but if we can get past Shakhtar Donetsk and into the last 16 of the Europa League I'd be so happy.
"Juventus and Ajax were teams that I used to follow, especially when Steven Pienaar was playing for Ajax - so I would love to play against them."
For the moment Dikgacoi's primary concern is his rehabilitation from injury but it is a tremendous fillip for the Club to have potentially unearthed another jewel who has clearly settled into life at Fulham with ease.
"I'm enjoying it in England and most of the things are actually the same as back home. We drive on the same side of the road and the signs are all the same so there aren't that many differences and I keep in touch with the other South African players who are playing in the Premier League."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/KGRoadtoRecovery.aspx#ixzz0g4Oubkk5 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/KGRoadtoRecovery.aspx#ixzz0g4Oubkk5)
http://www.thisissouthwales.co.uk/sport/Angel-happy-sign-year/article-1851282-detail/article.html
Angel happy to sign on for another year
Friday, February 19, 2010, 20:00
ANGEL Rangel has set his sights on the Premier League after signing a one-year contract extension at Swansea City.
A clause in the right-back's contract was triggered when he made his 23rd league start of the season at Plymouth, keeping him at the Liberty Stadium for another season. His current deal was due to expire in the summer and the Spaniard had attracted interest from the Premier League.
Fulham made a transfer deadline day move for the 27-year-old last month and afterwards Rangel hit out at Huw Jenkins, claiming that the Swansea chairman had prevented him from furthering his career by rejecting the approach.
But Rangel now insists he is happy to stay in South West Wales.
"I am very happy to sign the extension," he said.
"I have always said that Swansea gave me my opportunity in British football and I am so grateful for it, and now my aim is to reach the Premier League with the club.
"Now I have played the 23 games I am just happy to have it sorted."
http://www.footballfancast.com/football-blogs/5-things-last-nights-europa-league-action-told-us
5 – Fulham are GOOD! Roy Hodgson's men beat the holder's in a tie that they were not even considered to be capable of winning. I hope this finally shows people that they are a fairly decent team. If they could sort out their away form in the league then they would be much higher up. Unfortunately, a one goal lead might not be enough to take to sub-zero Ukraine. Best pack your tights Zamora and Co.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/348554-the-top-10-premier-league-0910-signings#page/3
The Top 10 Premier League 09/10 Signings
by Craig Farrell
The football transfer market exploded to ridiculous heights this summer. Cristiano Ronaldo went for over $80 million and Kaka went for over $64 million. Both of these transfers broke the world transfer record. The transfer fees that Real Madrid put up along with the likes of the Zlatan Ibrahimovic/Samuel Eto'o deal that Barcelona struck with Inter, which was valued somewhere in the region of $60 million has sent the transfer market into a spiral.
In a time where football clubs are struggling at an all-time high to keep the books balanced and stay out of the red, no team could afford this spend carelessly and risk wasting money aimlessly on transfers (unless your Manchester City that is).
The footballing transfer market is a cutthroat business. One poorly judged signing could end a club's title or survival aspirations. While an over priced transfer or two can cost your club everything (just ask Portsmouth).
The most important transfers for a team is not the big name signings that cost upwards of $20 and $30 million, it is the small budget player that produces on a large scale that can make all the difference for a team. Be it staying in the Premier League or breaking the barrier into Europe.
The following list comprises of the best transfer signings that Premier League clubs made. How much was spent on the player, how productive he has been, how important his has become to the team and the talent that was put around him.
9 - Damien Duff - $4.7 Million
Fulham signed Irish Winger Damien Duff from Newcastle one game into the season. The $4.7 million price tag was considered a big risk for Fulham considering Duff's previous tendency towards injuries.
Fulham decided to part ways with the cash and have been rewarded for doing so. Damien Duff has missed just two of Fulhams 26 league games, one of which was due to the fact that Fulham signed him late.
He has managed to net five goals in 24 games and is third in scoring for Fulham.
On top of the five goals Duff has scored he has created four goals and in total has created or scored just under 1/3 of the Fulham league offense.
Duff has become an instant fan favorite with the Fulham faithful and has played a major role in Fulham's F.A cup and Europa League success.
Duff has given Fulham a genuine wide threat on the left side and has brought the best out of striker Bobby Zamora.
Despite Duff hitting 30, under five million was a reasonable price to pick up a player with proven Premier League experience and someone who was able to come straight into the side and make an impact.
Stefano's Ten from Ten
Posted by Stefano Okaka on February 20, 2010 at 12:00pm
Send Message
View Stefano Okaka's blog
A big thank you to everyone who submitted their questions and posted comments on my profile.
Q: What made you join Fulham? (Nigel Spackman)
It made sense for me to join Fulham for footballing reasons and it was a fantastic opportunity for me personally to play abroad. I'm really looking forward to playing against all of the big sides in the Premier League.
Q: What would it mean to you if Fulham got through the next rounds of the FA Cup and go on to play at Wembley. (Aaron)
Let's hope so! It would be great to play at Wembley but it depends on the games coming up. It would be a great occasion for me if the Club does well and I'm able to play.
When you played against Fulham in the Europa League at the Stadio Olimpico what did you think of the Fulham team? (wasclapyouhands)
I thought they had a very good squad and it was evident that they were a very well organised Team on the pitch. The approach to fitness is very strong at Fulham and is at a very good level. They were both very hard games and it was great to be involved.
Have you tried out your local restaurants yet and what do you think of them? (Keith Haynes)
I've tried a restaurant called Chica and the food was good - I eat well in England.
Do you prefer to be referred to as Okaka or Okaka Chuka? (Charlie Whelton)
I prefer to be called Okaka!
What targets have you set yourself for your time at Fulham? (Andrew Terrey)
The main objective for me is to make a really good impression and do well on the pitch. I have to adapt my style to the English style and do well in all of the games I play in - I hope to adapt to the pace of the Premier League very quickly.
How good is Roy Hodgson's Italian? (Andrew Terrey)
Roy's Italian is very good and I've spoken to him many times and we understand each other well.
Have you ever played cricket? (Stridey 15)
No, I've never played cricket before but I'd like to have a try one day!
If you could trade places with any single sportsman, for one day only, who would it be (mo) and who is your favourite artist? (C@rme99)
I'd trade place with Kobi Bryant of the LA Lakers, and my favourite artist is 50 Cent.
Do you think we can qualify to the round of 16 of the Europa League and what do you think of Shakhtar Donetsk? (TL)
We've got a very good chance of qualifying and let's hope we do so. They are very good side and I'm expecting a very good style of game between the two sides.
Read more: http://cc.fulhamfc.com/profiles/blogs/stefanos-ten-from-ten#ixzz0g4wqB67o (http://cc.fulhamfc.com/profiles/blogs/stefanos-ten-from-ten#ixzz0g4wqB67o)
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/02/20/former-birmingham-city-star-has-no-regrets-over-fulham-move-82029-25877429/
Former Birmingham City star has no regrets over Fulham move
Feb 20 2010 By Jacob Murtagh
FULHAM defender Stephen Kelly admits he quit Birmingham City to play for a bigger club.
The Irishman lines up against his former team-mates tomorrow, with the Blues two places above them in the Premier League table.
But the 26-year-old insists he's got no regrets about leaving St Andrew's, and says the lure of European football was too big to turn down.
He said: "I've come to Fulham and got the chance to play in Europe, and never had that chance with Birmingham.
"I don't regret coming here. Birmingham have had a fantastic season but for me coming to Fulham and playing in Europe at a higher level was the next step up for me.
"You need to be testing yourself at the highest level, and for me that's in Europe."
The former Tottenham trainee was on the losing side when the two sides met in November, but he's desperate to get bragging rights this time around at Craven Cottage.
"I get on well with all the lads and will give Maik Taylor a text before the game winding him up," he added.
"You're playing against your old team and you want to do well and get one over on them. I had a fantastic time there and they've done really well this season, but it would be nice to get a win against my old side."
http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/birmingham-city-fc/birmingham-city-fc-news/2010/02/20/birmingham-city-why-trip-to-fulham-won-t-be-about-revenge-97319-25875237/
Birmingham City: Why trip to Fulham won't be about revenge
Feb 20 2010 by Andy Walker, Birmingham Mail
Comment (1)
BLUES boss Alex McLeish insists tomorrow's trip to Fulham won't be about banishing bad memories.
The last time Blues were at Craven Cottage was May 3 2008, when a 2-0 defeat virtually condemned McLeish's side to relegation from the Premier League.
That result took fate out of Blues' hands and despite a 4-1 final-day victory over Blackburn, they suffered an immediate return to the Championship.
Tomorrow's journey to west London will not only give the visitors the chance to reach the so-called magic 40-point mark, they will also have the opportunity to finally distinguish the pain of their last relegation.
However, McLeish insists the change in circumstances over the last two years means there won't be any significant psychological steps taken by beating Fulham in their own backyard.
"It's just another game. On paper Fulham are a better team now than they were two years ago, there's no doubt about that," said McLeish.
"But we're better than we were two years ago. The bookies favourites will still be Fulham this weekend so if we were to win there it would be another terrific achievement.
"There's no guarantees we will go to Fulham and win, but we hope to do that.
"Craven Cottage is never an easy place to go. In 2008 they were on a roll and they took care of business and we never quite managed to get over the line.
"I've had many frustrating games in football and I wouldn't say Fulham two years ago was the most frustrating. The last day against Blackburn was more frustrating, seeing that we won 4-1 and still went down."
And on the possibility of taking satisfaction from reaching the 40 points mark, McLeish added: "I don't think you should stop there because 37 points might be enough, which is what we're on just now.
"People talk about the magical 40 - teams have gone down before with 40. I think Glenn Roeder and West Ham went down with 42.
"It doesn't look likely this season, but we will try to go as many games as we can getting points along the way."
McLeish is due to meet owner Carson Yeung after Sunday's game to start discussing the finer details of his new contract.
While currently on a modest salary in Premier League terms, the Blues boss should be in line for a significant pay raise.
And while he insists that the challenge has always been more important to him than the cash, McLeish does admit that Blues' achievements have put him in a strong position when it comes to contract negotiations.
"There's no time scale, we've never said that it must be done by next week or the week after. But the club have intimated that they would like to talk to me about a contract and I'm very happy to talk.
"Carson Yeung is staying over and I'm supposed to be having talks with him to talk about the real terms of a new contract because that hasn't been discussed yet.
"Money has never be my god and when I joined the club I told my lawyer to get it done and dusted, I didn't want to fight over particulars too much because my mission was to come and prove myself in the English Premier League. That was more important to me.
"But I suppose when you make progress, then you look to be on parity with your contemporaries."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/10/02/20/SOCCER_Fulham_Nightlead.html&TEAMHD=soccer
HODGSON SETTING SIGHTS HIGH AGAIN
By Duncan Bech, Press Association Sport
Roy Hodgson believes Fulham are on course to emulate their most successful season under his guidance.
The Cottagers exceeded all expectations last term when they finished seventh in the Premier League - the club's highest top flight finish.
While Hodgson accepts they may struggle to rescale those heights, he expects them to end a domestic campaign that resumes with Sunday's clash with Birmingham in relative safety.
But what sets the season apart for the Fulham manager is their ongoing success in the FA Cup and Europa League.
A quarter-final against Bolton or Tottenham beckons in the cup while Thursday's 2-1 first-leg victory over Shakhtar Donetsk has given them a fine chance of progressing in Europe.
Despite the workload placed on an injury-hit squad, Hodgson expects them to perform on all fronts.
"We're trying to compete in every competition. The FA Cup is very special and that quarter-final will probably be the most important match we play in the coming weeks," he said.
"But the game in Shakhtar is one we'll definitely want to do well in.
"We have another 12 games in the Premier League and we have to make sure we continue producing performances like we did in the first leg against Shakhtar.
"If we manage that then I'm confident we'll get enough points to put us in a comfortable position.
"If we manage to finish comfortably in the Premier League this year after doing so well in the FA Cup and Europe, I'll compare this season with last season - even if we don't finish so high in the league."
Fulham sit 10th in the Premier League on 34 points, one victory adrift of Sunday's visitors Birmingham.
Despite a notable injury list that includes key players Andy Johnson, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil, they have defied all predictions once again.
For Hodgson, the most pleasing aspect is the way his squad is managing to adjust the workload that has seen them play a match virtually every three days for the past five weeks.
"The way we're balancing the competitions is exceeding my expectations," he said.
"It's exceeding what we're entitled to ask of the players. There were some very tired people on the pitch against Shakhtar.
"We're doing that with a very small squad because of the injuries.
"Any credit and praise the players get during this period is well deserved.
"Now it's a question of recovery. This result has taken a lot out of us and comes at the price of fatigue, tired legs and minds.
"The next two days are about getting ready physically and mentally."
http://www.fansfc.com/Fulham/story/19053/8.html
Fulham to offer O'Hara London stay
11:30 AM 18 February, 2010
Fulham Football Club are set to make an offer for Jamie O'Hara at the end of the season.
The talented midfield player has struggled to force his way into the Tottenham Hotspur side under Harry Redknapp, who still rates him as a player of real quality.
O'Hara has impressed during his season-long loan deal at Portsmouth to date, and he admits he may have to leave White Hart Lane on a permanent basis for regular first team football.
It is believed this something Roy Hodgson is willing to offer him at Craven Cottage, with an offer for the 23-year-old expected to be tabled in the summer.
Quote from: White Noise on February 20, 2010, 07:36:10 AM
http://hammyend.com/?p=5446
Mad but true
by Dan on February 19, 2010
Take a look at this from Sky Sports:
Possession
Fulham: 30.1%
Shakhtar: 69.9%
Territory
Fulham: 50%
Shakhtar: 50%
Another Roy Hodgson masterstroke?
I think 15% of their possession was just their back 4 passing it back & forth across the field...
