http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/5/4/2153353/european-football-probably-couldnt-come-at-a-better-time-for-fulham? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/5/4/2153353/european-football-probably-couldnt-come-at-a-better-time-for-fulham?)
European Football Probably Couldn't Come at a Better Time for Fulham
The dreaded anniversary is almost upon us.
Only 357 days have passed since one of the most disappointing climaxes in the history of football.
It was almost as if, on that dreadfully bitter-sweet May evening, the whole viewing public were behind us.
We were a naive, tentative, small town club that had caught the imagination of football. Fulham toppled the holders, defeated, against the most arduous of circumstances, the 'Old Lady' of European football and knocked out the hosts with an almost unerring ease.
Seemingly effortless it may have been at times, but Hodgson never allowed complacency. That's why we became loved. Perhaps only temporarily, but it won't be just Fulham fans that will look back upon 12th May 2010 and subconsciously applaud a genuinely, albeit surprisingly, world-beating side.
To achieve such a feat again though? Surely not?
Well, come the end of the season, it could become very easily apparent that the Cottagers will be playing some sort of role in what will be the 3rd year of the Europa League. The European Fair Play League will be our route in, and while not illustrating the most glamorous of entries, it's respectable nonetheless.
And perhaps, just perhaps, European football for Fulham couldn't be more appropriately placed on a history timeline that brags barely a single recognisable trophy.
A managerial change has of course been bestowed upon us at Craven Cottage, with the manager behind the European master-class now enjoying more mid-table obscurity at West Bromwich Albion, but the addition of Mark Hughes at the helm is, if anything, only a step in the right direction.
He's a disciplined, hard-nosed and therefore effectual man who knows how to get results. Admittedly, it's not all gone his way this season and I'll be the first to admit that at times, even I was concerned for our safety under his tutorship. If the ex-Man City manager has taught us one thing though, it's to trust what he says in that his sides are indeed 'end-of-season teams'. We've blitzed up to 9th place over the past few weeks and in the process have shipped few goals while scoring plenty.
Our rise in form has coincided rather cosily with an array of injury returnees, which bodes rather well in an effort to prove that we have a team with the capability of success at the highest level. The side has barely changed since last May. In fact, it's only strengthened. Bobby Zamora may have had a lengthy lay-off but he's back at his best now, while new boy Moussa Dembele hasn't left a single fan's mouth dry as they drool over his fantastically innate dribbling skills.
Perhaps most important to any European title aspiration, though, is the experience that we now possess. An immediate return the Europa League would have been too soon. The dreaded day would have been fresh in their minds and any willingness to revenge their defeat would have been outdone by a simple mental barrier that only time can erode. A season later though and the memories provide the perfect ammunition for another shot (excuse the pun) at the big time.The likes of Danny Murphy, Zamora and Brede Hangeland can call on their previous knowledge and before you know it, a European Final could await in May 2012.
It must be said though, that I may be getting a long way ahead of myself. Yet, it's a sign of the ever-improving times if a Fulham fan can genuinely write an article detailing his side's realistic chances of European success come next season.
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/04/fulham-star-fighting-fit-after-injury-hell-82029-28636428/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/04/fulham-star-fighting-fit-after-injury-hell-82029-28636428/?)
Fulham star fighting fit after injury hell
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/jul2010/6/7/simon-davies-image-1-64502358.jpg)
SIMON Davies is injury free for the first time this year – and the Fulham stalwart admitted it's done his confidence a power of good.
The midfielder scored twice to help the Whites to a 3-0 win over Sunderland last weekend and reckons he's in the groove for more when Fulham take on Liverpool at home on Monday night.
The 31-year-old suffered an instep injury that blighted the season before last, and then picked up an ankle injury against CSKA Sofia just before Christmas, 2009.
Davies recovered to score the only Fulham goal in the Europa League final against Atletico Madrid the following May – but revealed the problem resurfaced this season.
"I think I may have gone over on my ankle in training and it was nothing serious at the time," he said.
"When I started to feel it I had injections. But when you're not feeling your best, you're not likely to play at your best – and it started to affect my confidence and I got left out.
"I got another opportunity because of Damien's (Duff) injury – and in any season these things happen.
"My ankle might give me more problems in the future – but right now it's fine and I feel good."
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04052011/63/schwarzer-feels-hint-regret.html? (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04052011/63/schwarzer-feels-hint-regret.html?)
Schwarzer feels hint of regret
Mark Schwarzer believes too many draws have cost Fulham an even higher finish in the Barclays Premier League this season as they look to cement their place in the top 10.
The Cottagers go into Monday's game with Liverpool having lost two fewer matches than their fifth-placed opponents.
But 15 draws from 35 games mean they lie 10 points adrift of the Reds in ninth.
Goalkeeper Schwarzer told his club's official website, www.fulhamfc.com (http://www.fulhamfc.com): "Had we managed to turn some of those draws we've had this season into wins, we could well have been talking about an even higher finish come the end.
"But it's been a season of progression for us and next year could be another interesting one for us."
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/05/04/loaner-report-5411/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/05/04/loaner-report-5411/?)
Loaner Report 5/4/11
Filed under: General — timmyg
Sorry for the tardiness of this post. I don't really have an excuse, as it's not like our boys were up to much...
Diomansy Kamara came off the bench in the 51st minute in Leicester City's 1-1 draw with Doncaster Rovers on Saturday.
Kagisho Dikgacoi did not dress in Crystal Palace's 1-1 draw at Hull City on Saturday.
Eddie Johnson did not dress in Preston North End's 2-1 loss at Ipswich Town on Saturday.
Bjorn Helge Riise started and played 71 minutes in Sheffield United's 2-2 draw with Barnsley on Saturday. Sheffield United have been relegated from the Championship.
Lauri Dalla Valle was an unused substitute in Bournemouth's 2-2 draw at Hartlepool on Saturday. The draw clinches Bournemouth's playoff credentials as the sixth spot.
Keanu Marsh-Brown started and played 73 minutes in MK Dons' 2-1 win over Notts County on Saturday.
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/05052011/58/premier-league-match-facts-fulham-v-liverpool.html? (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/05052011/58/premier-league-match-facts-fulham-v-liverpool.html?)
Premier League - Match facts: Fulham v Liverpool
Facts and figures ahead of the Premier League clash between Fulham and Liverpool at Craven Cottage.
The Cottagers have failed to score in six of their last seven meetings with Liverpool.
Only Chelsea (35) have taken more points than Liverpool (30) since Kenny Dalglish was appointed manager of the Reds.
Fulham have won six of their last seven at Craven Cottage, drawing the other.
During this run of seven games, only Blackburn have managed to breach the Cottagers' defence.
Liverpool have scored in 10 consecutive away games, the joint-longest run of its kind in the Premier League all season.
On average, Fulham concede their first goal after 31 minutes, quicker than any other Premier League side.
Only counting games in May, Fulham have won more points per game (1.68) than Liverpool (1.65).
Lucas Leiva has attempted a tackle every 16.5 minutes this season, more frequently than any other regular player.
59.2% of Liverpool's passes in the Premier League this season have been played in or into the opposition half, a league-low.
If only the second half of Premier League matches counted, Fulham would be third behind Chelsea and Arsenal with 59 points.
Opta
http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/everton-fulham-go-espanyol-bosman-chica-1611121 (http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/everton-fulham-go-espanyol-bosman-chica-1611121)
Everton, Fulham go for Espanyol Bosman Chica
04.05.11 | tribalfootball.com
Espanyol full-back Javi Chica Torres is a target for Everton.
The Mirror says Everton boss David Moyes is set to swoop for Torres in a surprise free transfer move.
Moyes watched the highly-rated defender, who can play on either side of the back four, in a flying visit to Spain and could open talks shortly.
The Goodison chief faces competition for Chica from Fulham, with boss Mark Hughes also watching him in action against Athletic Bilbao.
http://www.futebolportugal.com/2011/05/olhanense-dady-perto-do-fulham-fc/ (http://www.futebolportugal.com/2011/05/olhanense-dady-perto-do-fulham-fc/)
Olhanense: Dady near Fulham FC
Article by SoccerIsTheRealThing on May 4, 2011
(http://www.futebolportugal.com/wp-content/uploads/dd10-150x100.jpg)
Returning after three and a half years to the Portuguese league, Eduardo Fernandes Pereira Gomes, advanced 29 years of Cape Verdean origin of Olhanense, who promised to revive his career in the class of the Algarve, is close to signing for Fulham Football Portugal knows. Remember that Dady was highlighted in the 2006/07 season by scoring 15 goals in the league at the service of Belenenses. After three seasons at Osasuna stayed before going to Turkey to make just four games in Bursasport. This season the dorsal 20 did not score any goal in Liga Sagres Zon ...
London Legends Cup
Wednesday 4th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Logos/LegendsCupPoster.jpg)
Craven Cottage is the place to be on Sunday 29th May, as the London Legends Cup comes to SW6. This event offers the chance to see 16 former stars from each of Fulham, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham battle it out on the Cottage turf.
Two former Fulham Managers, Chris Coleman and Roy Hodgson, are returning as Captain and Manager of the Fulham side, and supporters from all four London clubs will be able to watch their heroes from yesteryear roll back the clock.
The tournament comprises three matches of 40 minutes each designed to promote an attacking and exciting style of play.
Chelsea will play Fulham at 3pm followed by Arsenal v Spurs at 4pm, with the two winners meeting in the final at 5pm. This will be followed by a trophy and medal presentation at 4:45pm.
We have a number of hospitality options| available for the tournament, and more information can be found online, or by calling 020 8336 7555.
With match tickets starting at just £10 for adults and £5 for juniors, the London Legends Cup offers an opportunity for a great day out for the whole family.
Buy tickets for the London Legends Cup|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/LondonLegendsCup.aspx#ixzz1LP7oiKZ2 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/LondonLegendsCup.aspx#ixzz1LP7oiKZ2)
http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/05/04/shaun-wright-phillips-on-his-way-from-man-city/
Shaun Wright-Phillips on His Way from Man City But Must Choose Wisely
04/5/2011 8:15 AM GMT
By Graham Chase
He may have attracted £30 million in transfer fees but Shaun Wright-Phillips must be wondering how he has just 221 league starts to his name as he approaches 30 and wonders where his career is about to take him.
Still adored at Eastlands - by fans if not management - Wright-Phillips chose the wrong time to go to Chelsea, where he made 43 league starts in three years, and then picked the wrong time to come back.
And over a year after his father, Ian Wright, claimed the winger was being 'mugged off' over his contract, it looks as though Wright-Phillips will be on his way this summer.
This season has seen him start just two Premier League matches and he was only kept at Eastlands in January due to Adam Johnson suffering an ankle injury.
No matter how much you are adored by supporters, that is nowhere near what he would have expected for this stage of his career.
And it has been months since there was any talk of an extension to a contract that expires in 12 months.
After being rescued from Stamford Bridge, it all seemed so different three years ago and his form on his return to Eastlands, just weeks before the Abu Dhabi United Group takeover, was impressive.
At his flying best, there are few better wingers of Wright-Phillips' type in English football, streaking down the right flank with his feet almost reaching his shoulders as he sprints.
Yet that is a sight that has been seen all too rarely over the past 12 months and his next move could be one that defines his career.
After a lifetime spent at City and Chelsea, Wright-Phillips must accept that his suitors will come from a less glamorous bracket but may also finally offer him the regular action that he has been starved of for so many seasons.
The most recent reports suggest that Bolton and Fulham are considering moving for the pacey winger at the end of the season and both clubs would be ideal for him.
The best times of his career have been when he is the focal point for his team, enjoying the total faith of his manager.
A switch to Craven Cottage would see him reunited with Mark Hughes, who was the man who took him back to Eastlands.
He would not be returning south to fill up the bench and would be tasked with giving a cutting edge to a solid base.
Bolton is perhaps the more likely destination, however, with reports suggesting that Owen Coyle would look to include Wright-Phillips and Dedryck Boyata if City move for Gary Cahill.
He may start next season in a smaller pond but Wright-Phillips will thrive being the big fish once again.
Exciting Times
Wednesday 4th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/Symons/general3.jpg)
Kit Symons was understandably proud of his Under 18 side after they secured the Premier League Group A title against Leicester City in dramatic fashion last weekend.
Going into the final league game of the season, it was a two-horse race between Fulham and Southampton with the Saints needing to better Fulham's result in order to finish top.
The chances of a league title looked slim for Kit Symons' boys, with Leicester reaching the half-time interval holding a 3-0 advantage. But a dramatic turnaround saw the Whites net five second-half goals to secure the title in some style.
"I think it goes without saying that we are all very proud," said Symons. "It's been a great season for the Under 18s and this has capped a wonderful year for us all. We've made a little bit of history in terms of winning an academy title for the first time and it's a sign of what is hope will be a bright future.
"It was a staggering 90 minutes of football and one of those games that just took your breath away at times. We've gone from frustration one minute, to elation the next. But it just shows that you just can't give up.
"The first-half was probably the worst performance of the season to be honest. There were too many mistakes, which were very uncharacteristic, and at times we were all over the place – and what a time for that to happen.
"There were some words of encouragement as well as some constructive criticism shall we say at half-time and fortunately we got the response that we all wanted to see.
"At 3-0 down it was difficult to comprehend, because we had got ourselves into such a good position and on the brink of something very special. But we came dangerously close to letting it slip through our fingers, which would have been massively disappointing because the boys deserved this.
"We had to go for it – and sometimes these things come off and sometimes they don't. Fortunately it was to be our day.
"The second-half was fantastic and not only did we create and take those chances, the boys worked extremely hard in turning things around and showed a desire that was testament to what we are trying to achieve here.
"Of course, this has capped a memorable six months or so for me personally, but credit should be given to everyone within the Academy – it's not just about the players and myself as a coach, but a whole team of people.
"It was the culmination of a lot of hard work, and let's not forget the work that Gary Brazil did before me, because he put a lot of that in place and set the foundations. This Academy has been heading in the right direction for a long time and winning the title certainly underlines that.
"We're going from strength-to-strength and this really is an exciting time to be part of the Fulham Academy."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/SymonsAcademyChampions.aspx#ixzz1LOdDwHox (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/SymonsAcademyChampions.aspx#ixzz1LOdDwHox)
Inside Fulham Podcast
On this week's edition of the Inside Fulham podcast, Clint Dempsey discusses his impressive goal tally for the season so far following his brace against Bolton last week. Plus Mark Hughes looks back on Saturday's impressive away win at the Stadium of Light.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc (http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc)
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/53184/Cameroon_striker_in_Fulham_frame.aspx (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/53184/Cameroon_striker_in_Fulham_frame.aspx)
Cameroon striker in Fulham frame
Author: Ben Moss
Posted on:04 May 2011 - 11:20 AM
(http://www.sport.co.uk/public/images_news/2011/5/04/rs_20110504102014.jpg)
Fulham boss Mark Hughes is hoping to seal a deal for Young Boys of Berne striker Henri Bienvenu Ntsama in the summer.
The Cottagers chief is on the lookout for fresh striking talent and will aim to sign up to three new frontmen over the summer.
He has been linked with several players in recent weeks, including Espanyol's Pablo Daniel Osvaldo and Swansea's Scott Sinclair, but Ntsama, 22, is now said to be the top target as he could be available for as little as £2m and he only has a contract with the Swiss club until 2013.
The Cameroon international has scored 12 goals in 23 starts for Young Boys this season and has attracted plenty of interest from across Europe with a move to the Premier League said to be his preferred destination.
Mark Hughes fires Fulham transfer warning
By Jacob Murtagh
May 5 2011
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/jan2011/8/7/mark-hughes-image-5-728538314.jpg)
MARK Hughes has warned Fulham fans he won't splash the cash in the transfer market this summer.
The Whites boss has been linked with a £12million move for Espanyol striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo, but faces competition from Manchester United, Spurs and Everton for the Argentina-born Italian's signature.
And he has told supporters that the Whites can't compete with some of Europe's big guns when it comes to spending power.
He said: "We are looking with a view to next year and if we can add quality then we will try and do that.
"It is price sensitive. Sometimes you can want to bring a good player in but financially you can't afford to do that."
The Whites look on course for a top-10 finish despite a slow start to the season when they were flirting around the drop zone.
However, the return to fitness of Mousa Dembele and Bobby Zamora has seen Fulham turn into a force to be reckoned with in the second-half of the season.
And Hughes insists there won't be major changes at Craven Cottage over the summer.
"It won't be a massive overhaul," he added. "We have a good squad and have a good basis to keep moving forward."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/05/mark-hughes-fires-fulham-transfer-warning-82029-28641612/#ixzz1LUJppqsy (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/05/mark-hughes-fires-fulham-transfer-warning-82029-28641612/#ixzz1LUJppqsy)
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/05/05/clint-dempsey-hands-fulham-fitness-boost-ahead-of-liverpool-clash-64767-28641523/
Clint Dempsey hands Fulham fitness boost ahead of Liverpool clash
May 5 2011
By Jacob Murtagh
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/ealinggazette/aug2010/1/1/clint-dempsey-image-1-393921088.jpg)
Fulham v Liverpool
CLINT Dempsey returned to training this morning ahead of Monday night's clash at Craven Cottage.
The 13-goal American missed last weekend's win at Sunderland with a hamstring problem, but was back in action at Motspur Park as Mark Hughes's men bid to continue their quest for a top-10 finish against the Reds.
Brede Hangeland is also likely to return to the starting XI after overcoming a virus, with Philippe Senderos dropping down to the bench.
However, the Whites must do without Damien Duff for the rest of the season after undergoing an operation on his injured Achilles, while Zoltan Gera is also sidelined after turning his ankle in training.
Defender Rafik Halliche is the other absentee.
Fulham winger Damien Duff will miss the rest of the season
By Jacob Murtagh
May 5 2011
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/jul2010/1/5/damien-duff-image-1-46709459.jpg)
DAMIEN Duff has been ruled out for the rest of the season after undergoing an operation on his injured Achilles.
The Irishman hasn't featured for Fulham since the victory against Blackpool last month, and boss Mark Hughes revealed the 32-year-old has gone under the knife in a bid to solve the niggling problem.
He said: "Damien's been carrying the injury most of the season but it got to the point that one course of treatment was compromising another.
"In the end we made the decision that the best route to go was to get it sorted now.
"The operation was carried out by the same person who done Bobby Zamora's op last year, so we have every con fidence it will be straight forward."
Duff is likely to be sidelined for six weeks but should recover in time to begin pre-season training.
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/05/fulham-winger-damien-duff-will-miss-the-rest-of-the-season-82029-28640840/#ixzz1LUKZNCYP (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/05/fulham-winger-damien-duff-will-miss-the-rest-of-the-season-82029-28640840/#ixzz1LUKZNCYP)
More to Come
Thursday 5th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Hoesen/general2.jpg)
Last weekend's Barclays Premier League victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light saw young attacker Danny Hoesen named on the bench for the first time this season.
It was certainly a rewarding moment for the young Dutchman who endured an extended spell on the sidelines this season after suffering a hip injury.
Hoesen has already shown good form for the Development Squad this season and as Billy McKinlay explained to fulhamfc.com, more is expected from the player next season.
"It's well documented that he had a serious injury in the early part of the season," McKinlay said. "It's taken time for him to get back, I still don't think we're going to see the best of him until next season. I don't think he's fully fit yet, it's difficult to get your fitness back during the season after having been out for a prolonged period of time.
"As a player he's got good movement and he's quiet clever in terms of how he sees space and how he exploits it.
"I think he's found it difficult at times but now he's getting fitter. He might be slightly disappointed that the season's coming to an end – so it's important that he works hard over the summer and keeps himself ticking over.
"He knows that he needs to improve and it was a nice little reward for him to be on the bench for the Sunderland game. He had a fairly serious hip injury so I don't think we should underestimate that. He's worked hard to come back and you also have to give the medical staff credit, he was almost housebound for a period of weeks and didn't put any weight on his leg.
"It was good for him to see how things are at the sharp end – the most important thing is that he uses it as a catalyst. He's got to make sure that the taste of the First Team fuels his determination to come back better next season."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/MacKinlayonHoesen.aspx#ixzz1LULCbZ12 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/MacKinlayonHoesen.aspx#ixzz1LULCbZ12)
Putney End Season Tickets
Thursday 5th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/CravenCottage/PutneyEndView.jpg)
New Season Tickets for the 2011/12 campaign| are available now for fans to buy in blocks P1 and P2. We captured the views from these seats during the 3-0 home win against Bolton Wanderers to give you an insight into what you can expect.
As you can see, the view from these seats is superb. With the players' tunnel and the famous Cottage to the right of the Putney Stand, you will get first glimpse of the players arriving onto the pitch.
A regular at the Cottage gave us some feedback from block P2 earlier in the season.
Amongst the many positives he mentioned, he told us: "I had a good view of the match, and also the Cottage balcony. It was good to see the Hammersmith End from the opposite end of the stadium."
For more information visit our Season Ticket page| or call 0843 208 1234 (option 3) for more information.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/PutneyEndSeasonTickets.aspx#ixzz1LUNEIMSG (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/PutneyEndSeasonTickets.aspx#ixzz1LUNEIMSG)
http://www.clicklancashire.com/sport/blackburn-rovers-fc/129396-blackburn-rovers-set-to-rival-fulham-for-manchester-city-star.html (http://www.clicklancashire.com/sport/blackburn-rovers-fc/129396-blackburn-rovers-set-to-rival-fulham-for-manchester-city-star.html)
Blackburn Rovers set to rival Fulham for Manchester City star
by Jack Failsworth.
Published Thu 05 May 2011 12:15, Last updated: 2011-05-05
(http://images.clicklancashire.com/admin/article/articleimages/1304593331-Shaun_Wright-Phillips.jpg)
According to reports Blackburn Rovers are on transfer alert as Manchester City prepare to offload Shaun Wright-Phillips.
The Guardian claims City are ready to listen to offers for the out-of-favour winger.
The England midfielder will have no shortage of suitors with Rovers, Fulham, Bolton and QPR all be lived to be interested.
However, it is likely the midfielder will only move to a club involved in European competition.
http://footybunker.com/premier-league-clubs-target-unlikely-striker/2881 (http://footybunker.com/premier-league-clubs-target-unlikely-striker/2881)
Premier League clubs target unlikely striker
By Phil Plews
It has been revealed that a host of Premier League clubs have been eyeing up Espanyol striker Daniel Osvaldo. The relatively unknown striker has been scouted by several top-flight clubs including Manchester United, Tottenham, Everton and Fulham. The Argentine born, Italian national striker has impressed in La Liga this season, after an unhappy time in Serie A with Italian teams Lecce, Fiorentina and Bologna.
Several scouts made the trip to watch Espanyol's 2-1 win against Athletic Bilbao, Osvaldo scoring one and creating another. The target man was bought by Espanyol for £4.5 million in 2010, after a successful loan spell, which saw him score 7 goals in 20 games. This season, the Italian has improved on last year's tally, netting an impressive 11 goals in 20 appearances. His strength, pace, dribbling ability, and all-round finishing quality has attracted attention from teams looking to add to their striking depth.
Although the club slapped a hefty £18 million buy-out clause on him, reports suggest that Espanyol would do business for around £12 million, given their history as a 'selling club'. But even at £12 million, he would cost more than the likes of very impressive strikers such as United's Javier Hernández and Wigan's Hugo Rodallega, and would definitely be a gamble purchase for any manager.
Despite this, the 25 year-old, still looks an attractive prospect, his age meaning that there is still a lot of pitch time left in him. His previous clubs have caused him to be viewed more as a Europe League rather than a potential Champions League player. But with time, he could really develop at the right club. Osvaldo prefers to operate as a lone front man, latching on to teasing through balls or even a tantalising cross from the wings. His ability with his head as well as his feet would see him likened to United's Javier Hernández, never mind his pace and dribbling ability.
Should a move to England materialise, he will no doubt cause a mixed reception amongst the crowds, his birthday falling during the year Diego Maradona knocked England out of the World Cup – and he's not afraid to remind people of it!
Academy Semi-Final Update
Thursday 5th May 2011
As a result of finishing top of the Premier Academy League Group A, Fulham's Under 18 side will face Group D winners Sunderland in a semi-final play-off.
The fixture will take place at Motspur Park with the date and time to be confirmed shortly.
However, the Club can confirm that the game will not be played on Saturday 7th May as Sunderland have yet to finish their League schedule.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/AcademySemi-FinalUpdate.aspx#ixzz1LUlhZm00 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/AcademySemi-FinalUpdate.aspx#ixzz1LUlhZm00)
Fulham confirm interest in Espanyol hitman
Published 16:51 05/05/11
By MirrorFootball
(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/incoming/article727051.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/Wolves-Fulham-Mark-Hughes-Premier-League+cropped)
Fulham boss Mark Hughes has confirmed he's been on a scouting mission to watch Espanyol this week, after being strongly linked with a move for striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo.
Hughes jetted out to Barcelona to take in Espanyol's Primera Division win over Athletic Bilbao, in which the highly-rated Osvaldo scored.
Hughes was reportedly joined at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat by Manchester United's chief European scout - Sir Alex Ferguson's brother Martin - Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp and Everton gaffer David Moyes.
Osvaldo, 25, has also been valued by some at £12million, making Fulham very much underdogs for his signature should a bidding war begin.
"We're looking at what's available," said Hughes. "We're looking at a view to next year and if we can add quality to the quality we already have then we'll try to do that.
"But it is price-sensitive, I would suggest. Sometimes you can want to bring a good player in but financially you haven't got the means to do that.
"So we're just making sure that we're out there and we understand what's in the market place."
Hughes has also been linked with the more affordable Young Boys forward Henri Bienvenu Ntsama and Swansea star Scott Sinclair as he looks to bolster his attack this summer.
The loss of Bobby Zamora to a broken leg in September hit the club hard and the Fulham boss appears eager to avoid a repeat next season.
Hughes also reported good news regarding top scorer - and Fulham's new record Premier League scorer - Clint Dempsey, who missed Saturday's 3-0 win at Sunderland.
"Clint's trained after the weekend," said the Cottagers boss, whose side host Liverpool on Monday night. "He was a bit stiff in his hamstrings on the Friday prior to the Sunderland game, so there was no point in risking him.
"I took the view to leave him behind and he's benefited from that and he should be okay. He's trained today and he'll train right up to the game so he should be an option for us."
Brede Hangeland will also be available again after missing last weekend's game through illness, but Zoltan Gera and Rafik Halliche remain sidelined.
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-transfer-news-Mark-Hughes-has-confirmed-interest-in-12m-rated-Espanyol-striker-Pablo-Daniel-Osvaldo-but-Manchester-United-Tottenham-and-Everton-are-watching-him-too-article732138.html#ixzz1LUny3iHZ (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-transfer-news-Mark-Hughes-has-confirmed-interest-in-12m-rated-Espanyol-striker-Pablo-Daniel-Osvaldo-but-Manchester-United-Tottenham-and-Everton-are-watching-him-too-article732138.html#ixzz1LUny3iHZ)
Duff Injury Update
Thursday 5th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Duff/DuffNews.jpg)
Mark Hughes revealed on Thursday afternoon that Damien Duff has undergone surgery on his Achilles and will miss the final three matches of the season.
Hughes explained that Duff's surgery and rehabilitation should be straightforward and the winger is expected to return to fitness in six weeks ahead of the 2011/12 Barclays Premier League campaign.
"Damien has had an operation on his Achilles and the view is that his recovery will be six weeks," Hughes told fulhamfc.com. "He'll be fit and well for next season. It should be pretty straightforward.
"We've been managing it (Achilles) through the season and in fairness he's done really well with it. In the end we made the decision that the best route was to get it sorted now.
"He's actually had the operation done by the same guy that did Bobby Zamora's last year so we have every confidence he'll be back in the time stated."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/DamienDuffInjuryUpdate.aspx#ixzz1LUq9TsAc (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/DamienDuffInjuryUpdate.aspx#ixzz1LUq9TsAc)
Mark Hughes on a potential Eidur Gudjohnsen deal: "We're trying to make it happen because I've been really pleased with what Eidur has brought to the Team. There's a will on both sides to make sure that Eidur remains at Fulham next year and it's a case of having more discussions and getting to a level where everyone is happy but I think we're close."
We're Back!
Thursday 5th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Dempsey/Celeb2.jpg)
Mark Hughes' hand will be strengthened when Fulham play Liverpool following the news that Brede Hangeland and Clint Dempsey will be fit and available for Monday night's Barclays Premier League clash at the Cottage.
Dempsey grabbed a brace during Fulham's 3-0 home win over Bolton last week and after recovering from a tight hamstring the US international will be raring to go on Monday evening.
"Clint's trained after the weekend," said Hughes on Thursday afternoon. "He had a bit of stiffness in his hamstring on the Friday prior to the Sunderland game and there was no point in risking him. We took the view to leave him behind and he's benefitted from that.
"He should be okay [to play Liverpool] as he trained today and he'll continue training right up until the day of the game. He'll be an option for us on Monday night."
Brede Hangeland has also recovered from a bout of sickness that forced him out of action last weekend but there was less positive news for Zoltan Gera and Rafik Halliche, as Hughes explained on Thursday afternoon.
"Zoltan Gera went over on his ankle on Thursday so he's on the treatment table, as is Rafik Halliche."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/LiverpoolTeamNews.aspx#ixzz1LUquqNwY (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/LiverpoolTeamNews.aspx#ixzz1LUquqNwY)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11701_6915063,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11701_6915063,00.html)
Hughes expects Eidur deal
Striker set for move after impressing on loan
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me on Twitter @skysportspeteo.
Last Updated: May 5, 2011 6:35pm
(http://img.skysports.com/11/02/660x350/Gudjohnsen_2566924.jpg)
Fulham boss Mark Hughes has revealed he is close to sealing a permanent deal for loan star Eidur Gudjohnsen.
Gudjohnsen joined Fulham from Stoke on loan until the end of the season and he has impressed in recent weeks for the Cottagers.
The former Chelsea and Barcelona forward is available on a free transfer in the summer and Hughes is hopeful of agreeing a deal to keep the Icelandic international.
"We're trying to make that happen," admitted Hughes.
"I've been really pleased with what Eidur's brought to us and I know that he's
enjoying his time here.
"Eidur would like to stay, I'm sure, and we would reciprocate that as well.
"We're hopeful it'll get done quite soon."
Dempsey boost
Hughes also revealed top scorer Clint Dempsey will be available for next Monday's clash with Liverpool.
Dempsey, who is Fulham's new record Premier League scorer, missed last weekend's win at Sunderland with a tight hamstring, but he is back in training and should be fit for the visit of Liverpool.
"Clint's trained after the weekend," added Hughes.
"He was a bit stiff in his hamstrings on the Friday prior to the Sunderland game, so there was no point in risking him.
"I took the view to leave him behind and he's benefited from that and he should be okay.
"He's trained today and he'll train right up to the game so he should be an option for us."
http://www.givemefootball.com/league-two/gmf-exclusive-interview-with-wycombe-star (http://www.givemefootball.com/league-two/gmf-exclusive-interview-with-wycombe-star)
GMF exclusive interview with Wycombe star
Kevin Betsy has got his sights set on a hat-trick of promotions
By Lawrie Madden May 05, 2011
(http://www.givemefootball.com/GMF/files/76/76fcc6d0-a177-44e5-8fc1-918824828c50.jpg)
Kevin's keen to repay the fans after last year's relegation. (©PAphotos)Picture GalleryNew
Kevin Betsy This would be one of my best achievements in my career
Kevin Betsy is no stranger to promotion having gained success with Fulham and Bristol City but if Wycombe go up on Saturday it will be one of the flying winger's finest achievement s after being relegated last season.
GMF caught up with him before the last game of the season, hopefully for Betsy.
A win and Wycombe are promoted, anything less and they can be overtaken, and have to settle for the play-offs.
Q. It all comes down to the last game. How do you feel?
A. We've worked hard all season and promotion has always been our goal so it is a case of finishing of the job against Southend. It's a massive game.
I was sitting at home watching the Cardiff game who were hoping to go up that day but it killed them. We have to make sure it doesn't happen to us.
Q. Do you feel under pressure?
A. No, the manager has been fantastic. He has been cool, calm and relaxed about the last few games and this week as well. He is very good at taking the pressure of the players.
I was fortunate to win with Bristol City when we got promoted but the last ten minutes felt like hours.
Q. If things didn't go according to plan would you be able to pick yourselves up for the play-offs?
A. It would not be a case of trying to pick yourself up; it would be a case of having to. We are fully focused and if, for a variety of reason, it doesn't go to plan than we will have to do plan B.
Q. If you do manage to go up, what would it mean to you and the club?
A. I got promoted with Fulham from the Championship to the Premiership and with Bristol City from the First Division to the Championship but this would be one of my best achievements in my career.
We got relegated last year so to go back up and repay the fans would be immense.
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-confirm-interest-in-espanyol-striker-pablo-daniel-osvaldo-2279603.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-confirm-interest-in-espanyol-striker-pablo-daniel-osvaldo-2279603.html)
Fulham confirm interest in Espanyol striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo
By Ben Rumsby, PA
Thursday, 5 May 2011
Fulham boss Mark Hughes today confirmed he had been on a scouting mission to watch Espanyol this week after being strongly linked with a move for striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo.
Hughes jetted out to Barcelona to take in Espanyol's Primera Division win over Athletic Bilbao, in which the highly-rated Osvaldo scored.
Hughes was reportedly joined at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat by Manchester United's chief European scout - Sir Alex Ferguson's brother Martin - Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp and Everton's David Moyes.
Osvaldo, 25, has also been valued by some at £12million, making Fulham very much underdogs for his signature should a bidding war ensue.
"We're looking at what's available," said Hughes.
"We're looking at a view to next year and if we can add quality to the quality we already have then we'll try to do that.
"But it is price-sensitive, I would suggest, and sometimes you can want to bring a good player in but financially you haven't got the means to do that.
"So we're just making sure that we're out there and we understand what's in the market place."
Hughes has also been linked with the more affordable Young Boys forward Henri Bienvenu Ntsama and Swansea star Scott Sinclair as he looks to bolster his attack this summer.
The loss of Bobby Zamora to a broken leg in September hit the club hard and the Fulham boss appears eager to avoid a repeat next season.
He announced another injury blow today, revealing winger Damien Duff had finally been forced to concede defeat in his bid to overcome a long-standing Achilles problem.
"Damien Duff has had an operation on his Achilles," Hughes said.
"The view is that he'll be probably a six-week recovery and then he'll be fit and well for next season."
That would rule Duff out of the Republic of Ireland's Carling Nations Cup fixtures against Northern Ireland and Scotland later this month, and the June European Championship qualifier against Macedonia.
The 33-year-old had been named yesterday in Giovanni Trapattoni's provisional 33-man squad.
Hughes added: "We've been managing it through the season in fairness and Damien's been doing really well with it.
"But it just got to the point where one course of treatment was compromising another course of treatment that we had to do to allow the injury to settle down in between games.
"In the end, we made a decision that the best route was to get it sorted now.
"He actually had the operation done by the guy that did Bobby Zamora's last year, so we have every confidence that it's pretty straightforward and he'll be back in the timeframe."
Hughes reported better news regarding top scorer - and Fulham's new record Premier League scorer - Clint Dempsey, who missed Saturday's 3-0 win at Sunderland.
"Clint's trained after the weekend," said the Cottagers boss, whose side host Liverpool on Monday night.
"He was a bit stiff in his hamstrings on the Friday prior to the Sunderland game, so there was no point in risking him.
"I took the view to leave him behind and he's benefited from that and he should be okay.
"He's trained today and he'll train right up to the game so he should be an option for us."
Brede Hangeland will also be available again after missing last weekend's game through illness, but Zoltan Gera and Rafik Halliche remain sidelined.
Hughes also revealed he was "very close" to wrapping up a permanent deal for Eidur Gudjohnsen, who joined Fulham on loan from Stoke in January and whose promotion to the starting line-up has yielded seven points from the last three games.
The 32-year-old former Chelsea and Barcelona striker would be available on a free transfer as his Potters contract expires this summer.
Hughes added: "We're trying to make that happen.
"I've been really pleased with what Eidur's brought to us and I know that he's enjoying his time here.
"Eidur would like to stay, I'm sure, and we would reciprocate that as well.
"We're hopeful it'll get done quite soon."
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12876_6915005,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12876_6915005,00.html)
Hughes eyeing new strikers
Fulham boss spotted watching Espanyol star Osvaldo
Last Updated: May 5, 2011 5:39pm
(http://img.skysports.com/11/04/660x350/mark-hughes_2590461.jpg)
Fulham manager Mark Hughes has confirmed he is looking at bolstering his striking options for next season.
The Welsh boss flew out to Barcelona to watch Pablo Daniel Osvaldo in Espanyol's victory over Athletic Bilbao in the Primera Divison, a game in which the former Italy Under-21 international managed to score.
Hughes, however, is not the only one looking at the highly-rated 25-year-old, with Manchester United chief European scout Martin Ferguson, Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp and Everton manager David Moyes all present.
Fulham are short on strikers, with Bobby Zamora still working his way back to full fitness and Andrew Johnson and Moussa Dembele not prolific in front of goal.
Outsiders
But with Osvaldo's price tag of around £12million, Fulham have to be considered outsiders to land his signature if there is to be competition.
Hughes admitted that he needed to assess other options, with Young Boys striker Henri Bienvenu Ntsama and Swansea's Scott Sinclair considered more affordable options.
"We're looking at what's available," said Hughes.
"We're looking at a view to next year and if we can add quality to the quality we already have then we'll try to do that.
"But it is price-sensitive, I would suggest, and sometimes you can want to bring a good player in but financially you haven't got the means to do that.
"So we're just making sure that we're out there and we understand what's in the market place."
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/5/5/2155425/duff-out-but-well-be-fine (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/5/5/2155425/duff-out-but-well-be-fine)
Duff Out But We'll Be Fine
by Kristian Balkin on May 5, 2011 5:22 PM BST
Mark Hughes has revealed that Damien Duff is set to miss out on the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery on his Achilles injury.
Speaking to Fulhamfc.com, manager Hughes explained that Duff's road to recovery should be 'simple' and that he will be back well in time for the opener of 2011/12's Premier League campaign.
"Damien has had an operation on his Achilles and the view is that his recovery will be six weeks. He'll be fit and well for next season. It should be pretty straightforward.
"We've been managing it [the Achilles injury] through the season and in fairness he's done really well with it. In the end we made the decision that the best route was to get it sorted now.
"He's actually had the operation done by the same guy that did Bobby Zamora's last year so we have every confidence he'll be back in the time stated."
Sad news of course, but, nonetheless, the squad should be well capable of seeing the season out. With the double D's of Davies and Dempsey on the wings, we're more than adequately adept to handling Duff's injury problems and the only reward at steak for us in the final few games are a higher league standing and a sufficiently favourable disciplinary record.
I wish the Irishman all the best and a happy return come next season!
Fulham boss admits Osvaldo interest
By Jacob Murtagh
May 5 2011
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/may2011/7/3/pablo-osvaldo-image-1-834565699.jpg)
FULHAM boss Mark Hughes has confirmed his interest in Espanyol striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo.
Sparky saw the Argentina-born Italian score in the 2-1 win against Athletic Bilbao on Monday, but faces competition from Manchester United, Spurs and Everton for the £12million-rated star.
Hughes said: "The boy Osvaldo's been flagged up for a long time and I think everybody's aware of him - he's a good player.
"But you wouldn't expect me to say too much about him because he's somebody else's player."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/05/fulham-boss-admits-osvaldo-interest-82029-28643198/#ixzz1LVkLc3sF (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/05/fulham-boss-admits-osvaldo-interest-82029-28643198/#ixzz1LVkLc3sF)
Eidur Gudjohnsen set for permanent Fulham move
By Jacob Murtagh
May 5 2011
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/apr2011/4/4/eidur-gudjohnsen-image-1-410801653.jpg)
MARK Hughes hopes to iron out a deal to keep Eidur Gudjohnsen at Fulham.
The former Chelsea frontman has made eight appearances for the Whites since his loan switch from Stoke in January, but is yet to find the net for his new club.
Gudjohnsen told the Chronicle last month that he had opened talks about extending his stay at Craven Cottage.
And boss Hughes is confident of keeping the 32-year-old in SW6.
"We're trying to make that happen," he said. "I'm really pleased with what he's brought to us and he's enjoying his time here.
"If we can make it happen that's our intention. There's a will on both sides to make sure he remains here next year."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/05/eidur-gudjohnsen-set-for-permanent-fulham-move-82029-28641828/#ixzz1LVkknzDv (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/05/eidur-gudjohnsen-set-for-permanent-fulham-move-82029-28641828/#ixzz1LVkknzDv)
http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/swansea-sensation-sinclair-fulham-radar-1610311 (http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/swansea-sensation-sinclair-fulham-radar-1610311)
Swansea sensation Sinclair on Fulham radar
04.05.11 | tribalfootball.com
Swansea City attacker Scott Sinclair is attracting Premier League interest.
The England U21 international has been nothing short of sensational for the Swans since his arrival from Chelsea last summer.
The Daily Mail says Fulham boss Mark Hughes is ready to make an offer for Sinclair.
However, any move will depend on whether Swansea fail to win promotion from the Championship.
http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/everton-fulham-go-espanyol-bosman-chica-1611121 (http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/everton-fulham-go-espanyol-bosman-chica-1611121)
Everton, Fulham go for Espanyol Bosman Chica
04.05.11 | tribalfootball.com
Espanyol full-back Javi Chica Torres is a target for Everton.
The Mirror says Everton boss David Moyes is set to swoop for Torres in a surprise free transfer move.
Moyes watched the highly-rated defender, who can play on either side of the back four, in a flying visit to Spain and could open talks shortly.
The Goodison chief faces competition for Chica from Fulham, with boss Mark Hughes also watching him in action against Athletic Bilbao.
