http://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/hughes-future-up-in-the-air-2652768.html (http://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/hughes-future-up-in-the-air-2652768.html)
Hughes' future up in the air
Friday May 20 2011
Fulham have just 12 days to sign Mark Hughes on a new contract or risk losing their manager.
Hughes has a break clause in his two-year deal which can be activated on June 1. He could, in theory, leave the Premier League club as a free agent on June 30.
A number of other clubs are aware that Fulham have not yet carried out their stated intent to sign Hughes, who arrived last August, to a new extended deal.
According to sources, there have been only initial discussions but no offer has been made.
Fulham deny there is a problem. A spokesman said last night: "Mark has made it clear he is happy here and looking forward to the next campaign. We, and he, are looking forward to building on what has been achieved in the past nine months. We are adamant that he will be staying at Fulham."
There is also understood to be concern from Hughes as to whether he will be given the funds he was promised -- £20m has been mooted -- to improve the squad.
Aston Villa, who considered making a move for Hughes last year when Martin O'Neill left, are waiting to hear whether Gerard Houllier will continue as their manager following his health problems.
If not then they might be interested in Hughes -- who has enjoyed an outstanding campaign despite severe injury problems at Fulham -- who now sit eighth in the Premier League table and are set to qualify for the Europa League through the Fair Play League.
That victory against Stoke took City into third place and a win over Bolton on Sunday at the Reebok Stadium will ensure automatic entry to the Champions League group stages.
Arsenal would be condemned to qualifying, no matter their result in the London derby with Fulham.
It would be a fitting finale to the campaign for City, according to De Jong, after they lifted the FA Cup for the first time in 42 years at the weekend.
Bolton have lost four successive matches and the Dutch midfielder is intent on inflicting more pain on Owen Coyle's side.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1388657/Carlos-Tevez-mad-Manchester-City-tries-leave-says-Nigel-De-Jong.html#ixzz1Mry0K9vc (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1388657/Carlos-Tevez-mad-Manchester-City-tries-leave-says-Nigel-De-Jong.html#ixzz1Mry0K9vc)
Sven Goran Eriksson wants Paul Konchesky to help Leicester promotion bid
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 11:12 PM on 18th May 2011
Leicester are willing to give Paul Konchesky a route out of Liverpool.
The left back has endured a dreadful first season at Anfield after being heavily criticised by his own fans and shipped out on loan to Nottingham Forest.
Kenny Dalglish has put a new left-back at the top of his shopping list and Konchesky, 30, has been linked with a return to Fulham but Leicester boss Sven Goran Eriksson is looking to build a squad capable of promotion next season.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/05/18/article-1388535-0C455FB7000005DC-154_468x286.jpg)
Red or dead: It is unlikely Paul Konchesky will play for Liverpool again
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1388535/Sven-Goran-Eriksson-wants-Paul-Konchesky-help-Leicester-promotion-bid.html#ixzz1MryDGZb0 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1388535/Sven-Goran-Eriksson-wants-Paul-Konchesky-help-Leicester-promotion-bid.html#ixzz1MryDGZb0)
The Managerial Sack Race -
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1388815/The-Firing-Line-Carlo-Ancelottis-time-Chelsea.html (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1388815/The-Firing-Line-Carlo-Ancelottis-time-Chelsea.html)
http://www.tottenhamjournal.co.uk/tottenham-hotspur/tottenham-hotspur/why_spurs_look_likely_to_overtake_fulham_in_fair_play_league_1_896665 (http://www.tottenhamjournal.co.uk/tottenham-hotspur/tottenham-hotspur/why_spurs_look_likely_to_overtake_fulham_in_fair_play_league_1_896665)
Why Spurs look likely to overtake Fulham in Fair Play league
By Ben Pearce
Wednesday, May 18, 2011 11:13 AM
IF Harry Redknapp thought Europa League qualification was the worst-case scenario this season he was wrong – success in the Fair Play league is infinitely worse.
This seemingly incidental table, inspired by Uefa, has gone utterly unnoticed since August, but this week it has become just as important as the Premier League itself.
Uefa have announced that England, Norway and Sweden have topped their fair play rankings, and that each country will be awarded an extra Europa League spot.
The 'lucky' team will be the highest-placed side in the Premier League's own Fair Play league – provided that they have not already qualified for Europe.
That rules out Chelsea, who are top, but the table is only updated once a month, and currently shows the rankings up to and including the games on Saturday April 30.
Fulham are second but Tottenham are third, making them the potential 'winners' if they miss out on fifth place and also overtake the Cottagers when the final Fair Play league is compiled.
To say that that would be an inconvenience would be a serious understatement. The team who enters Europe through the Fair Play league is required to play eight matches just to get into the group stages – three two-legged qualifying rounds and a play-off.
The first fixture on that odyssey would come on June 30, just 39 days after the end of the current campaign, which would shorten the holidays of first-team players – some of whom will be in international action in June - and wreak havoc with pre-season preparations.
Of course, Tottenham could send their youngsters out to play in these qualifying ties, but the Lilywhites have also committed to a tournament in South Africa between July 16-23, which may also have been earmarked for the squad's fringe members.
Spurs can avoid all of this by beating Liverpool to fifth place on Sunday. But, with Birmingham fighting to avoid relegation, and given Tottenham's record against the bottom teams this season, the Fair Play league is certainly worth studying.
While it has been widely reported that Fulham are in pole position, they are actually level with Spurs when it comes to the all-important average score – both teams are on 8.43 at the last count of April 30, when Spurs had a game in hand.
This average is the result of a complicated system, based on scores which are given to each team in every game. There are six different criteria ranging from discipline (red and yellow cards) to the behaviour of coaching staff and even the supporters.
Ignoring the final calculation that leads to that 8.43 average, each side is given a score out of 40 for every one of their league matches.
Having played 35 games up to April 30, Fulham had a total cumulative score of 1180 – 34 points more than Spurs.
However, since then the Lilywhites have played an extra match – their game in hand against Manchester City – and Redknapp's side have averaged just under 34 points per game.
If the table was updated now, Spurs would be very close – in fact they could well be ahead.
While it is impossible to tell how the two teams have scored for positive play and the behaviour of coaches and fans, it is easy to calculate their relative scores for discipline – and Tottenham's has been markedly better this month.
Out of the 40 points awarded for each match, 10 are for discipline, with one point being deducted for each yellow card (and three for a red).
Mark Hughes' side have picked up 10 yellow cards in their two fixtures in May, while Spurs have received five in three matches.
That equates to 10 points from a possible 20 for Fulham, and 25 from a possible 30 for Tottenham – a 15-point swing in the Lilywhites' favour on that criteria alone.
With such a small gap between the two sides, that could be a crucial factor. In short, the 'battle' to win the Fair Play league is a lot closer than Spurs would like, and they are in real danger of coming out on top.
Having voiced his concerns over qualifying for the Europa League, Redknapp is now stuck between a rock and a hard place.
In essence, Tottenham need to finish fifth and take on all of those extra games on the continent simply to avoid a further eight in the competition's qualifiers.
Legends Unveiled
Thursday 19th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/ExPlayers/ChrisColeman/ColemanTrophy.jpg)
Football 40 can today unveil a list of 70 Legends who have confirmed they will participate in the London Legends Cup| which brings together some of the greatest icons to have graced the English game.
A staggering list from A-Z, from Ossie Ardiles to Gianfranco Zola, will be on show in the new 20-minute each half Football 40 format, Fulham taking on Chelsea and Arsenal facing Spurs for the right to play in the Final and win a major Legends trophy for their respective club.
Fulham fans can look forward to seeing a host of former famous players that have graced the Cottage in years gone by, including Geoff Horsfield, Andy Melville the Club's former player and manager, Chris Coleman. Roy Hodgson makes a return to SW6 to manage the Fulham Legends team.
Fulham's opponents Chelsea have a team packed full of former international stars, including captain Gianfranco Zola, who will team up with former Chelsea strike partner Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. Chelsea's squad features a host of well known players, such as Pat Nevin, Kerry Dixon, Tore Andre Flo, Jody Morris, Frank Sinclair and Jason Cundy. From the dugout Chelsea will be managed by Tommy Docherty with Capital Radio's Johnny Vaughan assisting him.
Arsenal's high calibre participating Legends include Paul Merson, Tony Woodcock, Ray Parlour, Viv Anderson, Kenny Sansom, Nigel Winterburn, and Graham Rix. Arsenal's North London rivals, Spurs, will reunite Ricky Villa and Ossiee Ardiles. Pat Jennings is making a sentimental appearance with Euro Cup Final penalty save hero Tony Parks, and Ian Walker is on call along with Graham Roberts, Paul Miller, Darren Anderton, Paul Walsh, Tony Galvin and Gerry Armstrong.
Former England manager Glenn Hoddle is Football 40's Technical Director and Tournament Director ahead of this inaugural London event, which takes place on Sunday May 29th (KO 3pm|).
It must be arguably the greatest collection of Legends ever gathered at one place at one time for one full scale 11-aside competitive tournament. For all the latest information please visit www.football40.com (http://www.football40.com)|.
Watch the London Legends Cup in style by booking your VIP seat for £60. The VIP ticket includes directors' area seating, lounge access and the chance to meet some of the legends on show.|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/LegendsRevealed.aspx#ixzz1MrzqVpqL (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/LegendsRevealed.aspx#ixzz1MrzqVpqL)
Inside Fulham FC Podcast
Mark Hughes on playing in Europe next season 18 May 2011
Wed, 18 May 11
Duration: 5 mins
Available:29 days remaining
Manager Mark Hughes on back-to-back wins away from home, and the real possibility of Fulham being in the Europa League again next season.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc (http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc)
Weekend Travel Update
Thursday 19th May 2011
Supporters attending Sunday's match against Arsenal at the Cottage should be aware of transport disruptions on the day of the game.
On the District Line there will be no service on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 May between Putney Bridge and Wimbledon.
It is recommended that supporters using the tube allow extra time for their journey. Supporters are advised to check the TfL website| before they travel.
Bus replacement services:
Service D: between Wimbledon and Putney Bridge, calling at Wimbledon Park, Southfields and East Putney.
Service E: between Wimbledon and Putney Bridge.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/WeekendTravelUpdateFulhamvArsenal.aspx#ixzz1Ms0ZYNzs (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/WeekendTravelUpdateFulhamvArsenal.aspx#ixzz1Ms0ZYNzs)
http://www.footballfancast.com/2011/05/football-news/premier-league-preview-fulham-v-arsenal (http://www.footballfancast.com/2011/05/football-news/premier-league-preview-fulham-v-arsenal)
Premier League preview: Fulham v Arsenal
Date: 19th May 2011 at 11:50 am
Written by FFC News Desk
Fulham host Arsenal on the final day of the Premier League season, with European qualification an issue for both clubs.Arsenal's 2-1 defeat at home to Aston Villa last week, coupled with Manchester City's 3-0 win over Stoke on Tuesday, means Arsene Wenger's team are down to fourth.
If Arsenal finish fourth, they will miss out on an automatic Champions League qualification berth and be forced to take their chances in the qualifying rounds.
While Arsenal's task is obvious – win and hope City drop points at Bolton – Fulham have a more unusual scenario to confront.
They are the highest-ranked team on the Premier League fair-play table not to have already secured European qualification.
Barring a high count of red or yellow cards in Sunday's match, they could find themselves in the Europa League next season.
Rather than a welcome bonus, taking part in the competition may prove to be a distraction Mark Hughes' squad could do without.
Fulham reached the inaugural final of the rebadged Europa League in 2010, but the campaign took its toll on the team's Premier League form – they finished 12th, down five places from the previous season.
Hughes has guided the team to eighth in his first season in charge, overcoming serious injuries to key players along the way.
Rather than risk stalling their progress by taking on the demand of additional midweek matches and European travel, a flurry of bookings or perhaps even a red card at Craven Cottage might be a convenient solution to Fulham's unwanted dilemma.
Relegation-threatened Blackpool, who may be in the Championship next season, are next in line to inherit the Europa League fair-play berth.
Fulham have no new injury worries to contend with, only winger Damian Duff (Achilles) is unavailable.
Arsenal are without goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski and midfielder Abou Diaby, while Gael Clichy, Samir Nasri and captain Cesc Fabregas are in doubt.
Coaching @ the Cottage
Thursday 19th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/CravenCottage/PutneyEndView.jpg)
On Bank Holiday Monday, 30th May, Fulham FC Foundation will be delivering Coaching @ the Cottage - a fantastic opportunity for junior supporters to learn and test new skills with Foundation staff on the hallowed turf at Craven Cottage.
The unique event will comprise four time slots starting from 9am and finishing at 5pm. Each session will last an hour-and-a-half with a capacity of 96 participants for each.
Upon your arrival at the stadium, you will enter through the Hammersmith End turnstiles using your very own game ticket, and be met by Foundation staff. You will then be welcomed into the Johnny Haynes Stand until you are called upon to enter onto the very pitch where all your favourite Fulham stars play on a Saturday!
Once the action begins, you will learn new skills, develop your football knowledge and take part in some fun and competitive games. And when the final whistleblows, you can return to the stands for lunch and refreshments, before meeting Billy the Badger in the away team changing room inside the actual Cottage.
You will then be invited to have a photo taken in the same home dressing room used by Mark Hughes' team on a matchday!
After the success of our Foundation holiday courses, this is a very exciting opportunity for you to be a part of what will be a fantastic day - for only £25 per player.
To book your place on this amazing experience, please call the Foundation Office on 0870 442 5432.
Please note: All current Fulham Junior Members will receive a 10% discount when booking.
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Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/CoachingattheCottage.aspx#ixzz1Ms132gDY (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/CoachingattheCottage.aspx#ixzz1Ms132gDY)
Fulham defender on Roma's shopping list
Published 23:00 19/05/11
By Jeremy Butler
(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/match-centre/article729813.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/Sunderland-v-Fulham-Premier-League-Steed-Malbranque)
Fulham defender Philippe Senderos is wanted by Italian giants Roma – despite missing most of the season with an Achilles injury.
The Serie A oufit plan talks to sign the Swiss international next week.
Ex-Arsenal stopper Senderos has proved his fitness after returning in recent weeks.
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-transfer-news-Defender-Philippe-Senderos-is-wanted-by-Italian-giants-Roma-despite-missing-most-of-the-season-with-an-Achilles-injury-article738302.html#ixzz1Ms1obSLW (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-transfer-news-Defender-Philippe-Senderos-is-wanted-by-Italian-giants-Roma-despite-missing-most-of-the-season-with-an-Achilles-injury-article738302.html#ixzz1Ms1obSLW)
http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/05/20/premier-league-rankings-manchester-city-alternative-table/ (http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/05/20/premier-league-rankings-manchester-city-alternative-table/)
6. Fulham | Previous: 9 | Form: L-D-W-W-L-W
Points: 48 | Goals For: 47 | Goals Against: 41
Fulham certainly know how to put the cat among the relegation pigeons, judging by the way in which they came away with a commanding 2-0 win at Birmingham at the weekend, a result that places the hosts in serious danger of going down. That was presumably the response Mark Hughes demanded after the dismal 5-2 home loss to Liverpool on their previous outing but, still, credit the Cottagers for putting in that kind of shift in a game which had no real meaning for them and meant everything for Birmingham.
http://tribalfootball.com/articles/arsenal-determined-regain-third-spot-says-wenger-1643421 (http://tribalfootball.com/articles/arsenal-determined-regain-third-spot-says-wenger-1643421)
Arsenal determined to regain third spot says Wenger
19.05.11 | Andrew Slevison
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger insists the team is desperate to get back to winning ways by taking out London rivals Fulham on Sunday.
The fourth-placed Gunners are determined to win their way back to third with a big performance at Craven Cottage in the final game of the season after two disappointing losses on the trot.
The Gunners have won just two of their 12 games in all competitions as their campaign has fizzled out but Wenger urged his team to finish on a high by securing third place.
Wenger says it is vital that Arsenal avoid Champions League qualifiers which would come if they were to remain in their current position.
"There is a massive difference between third and fourth," said Wenger, whose side sit a place behind Manchester City who meet Bolton away.
"Fourth is to play a qualifier for the Champions League - that is not Champions League football. Third is guaranteeing to be in it.
"We will try to win against Fulham. A draw could be good enough if City lose.
"I do not want to have any regrets and just want to win the game."
Roma to Phil up on Senderos
Published: Today
PHILIPPE SENDEROS is wanted by Italian giants Roma - despite missing most of the season with an Achilles injury.
Fulham's Swiss defender, 26, only made his Cottagers debut on April 30 - but Roma plan to visit London next week to open talks about signing him.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3590555/Roma-want-Philippe-Senderos.html#ixzz1Ms46zcvt (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3590555/Roma-want-Philippe-Senderos.html#ixzz1Ms46zcvt)
http://tribalfootball.com/articles/tottenham-eyeing-move-espanyol-keeper-kameni-1642801 (http://tribalfootball.com/articles/tottenham-eyeing-move-espanyol-keeper-kameni-1642801)
Tottenham eyeing move for Espanyol keeper Kameni
19.05.11 | tribalfootball.com
Espanyol goalkeeper Carlos Kameni is interesting Tottenham.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has made personal checks on the Cameroon international this season - along with Fulham, Everton and Manchester United.
Kameni is aware of the transfer interest and cannot rule out leaving Espanyol in the summer.
"There are clubs that follow me", said the Cameroonian. "If they come with an offer to the club, I would consider it.
"I want to fight for more than self-preservation,."
Family Barbecue
Thursday 19th May 2011
We are delighted to invite supporters to an end of season Family Barbecue, in association with SEAT, on the Riverside Terrace after our final game against Arsenal on Sunday 22nd May.
Tickets are on sale from just £10 for adults and £5 for juniors, which includes food and drink*. Children under the age of 5 will gain FREE** entry with one paying adult. Learn more about the Family Barbeque| or call the ticket office on 0843 208 1234 (option 3).
So join us to celebrate another successful season in the top-flight of English football, as plasma screens play through the many highlights of 2010/11.
Tickets are limited for this exclusive event, and they are sure to sell out fast, so secure yours today.
Buy tickets now|
* One free drink and food from the BBQ
**Children under the age of 5 admitted free of charge with one paying adult, available through ticket office only and not online
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/FamilyBarbeque.aspx#ixzz1Ms5RxLP3 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/FamilyBarbeque.aspx#ixzz1Ms5RxLP3)
http://www.fansfc.com/Fulham/story/32344/8.html (http://www.fansfc.com/Fulham/story/32344/8.html)
Hitzlsperger offered capital stay with Fulham
11:30 AM 19 May, 2011
Fulham Football Club are interested in Thomas Hitzlsperger.
The German international joined West Ham United when his contract at Lazio expired in the summer, in what was considered a huge coup for the Londoners.
But the midfielder picked up an injury during pre-season, and this resulted in him only making his debut for the Hammers towards the end of February.
The former Aston Villa man has made just nine appearances in the Premier League this term, and this was not enough to save United's top-flight status.
Despite being under contract until 2013 Hitzlsperger, 29, is now expected to leave Upton Park, and Fulham are keen to offer him the chance to remain in the capital.
http://tribalfootball.com/articles/fulham-keeper-schwarzer-arsenal-hopes-now-long-gone-1642571 (http://tribalfootball.com/articles/fulham-keeper-schwarzer-arsenal-hopes-now-long-gone-1642571)
Fulham keeper Schwarzer: Arsenal hopes now long gone
19.05.11 | tribalfootball.com
Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer says thoughts of moving to Arsenal are now over.
He can condemn Arsenal to the Champions League qualifiers by beating them at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
He said: "To be linked with Arsenal is an honour but we are hoping to finish a good season really well.
"If we can equal our record seventh place of 2009 it would be fantastic."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8524620/Fulham-face-race-against-time-to-tie-up-new-contract-for-manager-Mark-Hughes.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8524620/Fulham-face-race-against-time-to-tie-up-new-contract-for-manager-Mark-Hughes.html)
Fulham face race against time to tie up new contract for manager Mark Hughes
Fulham have just 12 days to sign Mark Hughes up to a new contract or risk losing their manager.
(http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01900/hughes_1900274c.jpg)
New deal? Fulham face a race against time to tie up a new contract for manager Mark Hughes, as he could way away in as little as 12 days' time Photo: ACTION IMAGES
By Jason Burt 6:30AM BST 20 May 2011
Hughes has a break clause in his two-year deal which can be activated on June 1. He could, in theory, then leave the Premier League club as a free agent on June 30.
A number of other clubs are aware that Fulham have not yet carried out their stated intent to sign Hughes, who arrived last August, to a new extended deal.
It is believed that the former Manchester City manager has grown frustrated at the delay in talks taking place, especially as he had indicated to Fulham that he was happy to sign a new deal and pledge his future to the club.
However, according to sources, there have only been initial discussions but no offer has been made. Importantly, there are no talks scheduled to take place.
Hughes's unease may be compounded by the fact that the break clause could be activated by Fulham as well as by himself.
Fulham deny that there is a problem and insist Hughes will be offered a new deal and will stay. A spokesman said last night:
"Mark has made it clear that he is happy here and looking forward to the next campaign.
"We, and he, are looking forward to building on what has been achieved in the past nine months. We are adamant that he will be staying at Fulham." The spokesman insisted that talks were ongoing.
That will come as a huge relief to the club's supporters but it does appear curious that Fulham have allowed any doubt to creep in to the manager's thoughts considering the impressive job he has done since succeeding Roy Hodgson.
There is also understood to be concern from Hughes as to whether he will be given the funds he was promised — a figure of £20 million has been mooted — to continue to improve the squad over the summer.
Aston Villa, who considered making a move for Hughes last year when Martin O'Neill left, are waiting to hear whether Gerard Houllier will continue as their manager following his health problems.
If not then they might be interested in Hughes, who has enjoyed an outstanding campaign at Fulham, who now sit eighth in the Premier League and are set to qualify for the Europa League through the Fair Play League.
There has already been interest from Bayern Munich, who considered Hughes as Louis van Gaal's replacement before hiring Jupp Heynckes.
The Fulham manager has made it clear he would like to stay. "I'm hoping to sit down with the club and talk about it. I have 12 months left and we've had initial discussions, but nothing in terms of extending the contract," he said earlier this month.
Hughes has rallied the team and has also performed well in the transfer market. Paul Konchesky was sold for £4 million to Liverpool and Carlos Salcido and Moussa Dembele were recruited with the proceeds, while Steve Sidwell arrived on a free transfer in January.
It means that, as yet, Hughes has not spent a significant amount on a squad who do need improving.
http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/man-city-midfielder-de-jong-third-place-would-be-cherry-cake-1641621 (http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/man-city-midfielder-de-jong-third-place-would-be-cherry-cake-1641621)
Man City midfielder De Jong: Third-place would be cherry on cake
19.05.11 | tribalfootball.com
Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong says finishing in third place would be the "cherry on the cake" for this season.
City need victory over Bolton Wanderers to be sure of automatic Champions League qualification.
"It's always tough against Bolton and they are strong on their own ground, but we have to go there, be mentally strong and give 100% because we can't rely on Fulham beating Arsenal," De Jong told City's website.
"If we do what we need to do we don't need favours from anyone else. It's been a long season but finishing third would be the cherry on the cake."
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/19052011/58/premier-league-match-facts-fulham-v-arsenal.html (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/19052011/58/premier-league-match-facts-fulham-v-arsenal.html)
Premier League - Match facts: Fulham v Arsenal
Thu, 19 May 05:09:00 2011
Facts and figures ahead of the Premier League clash between Fulham and Arsenal at Craven Cottage.
Fulham have never drawn a Premier League game on the final day of the season, winning five and losing four.
Arsenal have only ever drawn one of their 18 games on the final day of a Premier League season (0-0 v Portsmouth in 2007).
None of Fulham's nine home Premier League games against Arsenal have ended as draws.
The Whites have failed to score in six of their last eight Premier League home games v the Gunners.
The Gunners have scored exactly four goals on the final day in three of the last five seasons.
Robin Van Persie has scored as many Premier League goals in 2011 as the entire Blackburn Rovers team.
12 goals have been scored from corners at Craven Cottage this season, two more than any other ground.
If Robin van Persie scores against Fulham, he will equal the record of 18 goals scored in a season from January 1 onwards held by Thierry Henry and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Fulham attempted 14 shots (including blocks) in the reverse meeting between these sides, the most of all 19 teams to visit the Emirates in the league this term.
30% of Fulham's goals have come from headers this season, the highest proportion in the division.
Opta
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7944374/Fulham-v-Arsenal-match-preview.html
Fulham v Arsenal: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between Fulham and Arsenal at Craven Cottage on Sunday May 22 2011, kick-off 16.00 BST.
FULHAMVARSENAL Sunday, May 22 16:00
Premier League
Craven Cottage
By Jonathan Liew 6:00AM BST 20 May 2011
Sunday May 22
Fulham v Arsenal
Kick-off: 16.00 BST
TV: Highlights BBC1 MOTD
Never mind fining Manchester United for a weakened team, how about fining Fulham for weakened tackles? With a Europa League spot there for the taking if they can maintain their strong position in the Fair Play League, you could forgive Fulham for ducking out of the odd 50/50 ball.
Mark Hughes has welcomed the possibility of European football returning to Craven Cittage, even though it would involve two months of travelling to places not even Eurovision would dare touch and beginning pre-season training around a week last Tuesday.
Bit of a curate's egg, Fulham – their last four games have finished 3-0, 0-3, 2-5 and 0-2 – so who knows what to expect from them here? Philippe Senderos should be in line to continue is encouraging comeback from injury.
Arsenal ... pffffft. Arsène Wenger's rumblings about Twitter and Jack Wilshere aside, there is little to hold the interest for them here. They could still finish third if Manchester City slip up. Thing is, if City slip up, you can practically rely on Arsenal to do so as well.
Betting: Home: 5-2 Away: 19-20 Draw: 12-5
Referee: Martin Atkinson matches 26 R10 Y86)
Fulham: LDWWLW Arsenal: DDLWLL
Arsenal need two goals to claim their best Away: tally in the Premier League.
Former Chelsea chief tips Fulham boss for top job
By Paul Warburton
May 20 2011
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WHAT Mark Hughes does next at Fulham will decide whether he will manage the likes of Manchester United or Chelsea one day – according to Glenn Hoddle.
The former England boss made Sparky one of his last player signings when Hod was in charge at Stamford Bridge, and has monitored his progress ever since.
Hughes insisted he was happy at Craven Cottage this week, but a man who knows him is only too aware Fulham's boss is ambitious.
Hoddle said: "Assuming Mark wants it in the first place – to attain the next step with somebody like Manchester United or Chelsea depends on the next step he takes at Fulham.
"Do the club stick or twist and go for something more ambitious, especially when you see how much clubs like Man City or Tottenham spent just to try and get fourth place?
"Or does Mark need to look at the way Fulham play? Does he go even more adventurous perhaps? And does he buys one or two more players?"
Hughes was courted twice by Fulham last summer as successor to Roy Hodgson.
At first, the former Manchester City boss rejected the approach. But when Martin Jol stuck with Ajax, Fulham finally persuaded Sparky their ambitions matched his.
But Hoddle is sure clubs like Aston Villa are monitoring Hughes's progress with the Whites.
He said: "There's no doubt in my mind, people are looking at him to see whether he can take Fulham higher. But to achieve this he needs a better and stronger squad and no key players out for a period of time – like Bobby Zamora this season.
"In my book, Mark certainly has the capabilities to manage at the top."
Hoddle is due to manage a team in Football 40 – a legends tournament at Craven Cottage on Sunday week, May 29th, kick-off 3pm involving sides from Chelsea, Fulham, Arsenal and Spurs.
More than 70 top players including Pat Nevin, Kerry Dixon, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Tor Andre Flo, Franco Zola, Geoff Horsfield, Andy Melville, Chris Coleman – and Roy Hodgson in a managerial capacity are set to appear.
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/former-chelsea-chief-tips-fulham-boss-for-top-job-82029-28727545/#ixzz1Ms9C7DBr (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/former-chelsea-chief-tips-fulham-boss-for-top-job-82029-28727545/#ixzz1Ms9C7DBr)
Quote from: White Noise on May 20, 2011, 07:36:15 AM
http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/man-city-midfielder-de-jong-third-place-would-be-cherry-cake-1641621 (http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/man-city-midfielder-de-jong-third-place-would-be-cherry-cake-1641621)
Man City midfielder De Jong: Third-place would be cherry on cake
19.05.11 | tribalfootball.com
Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong says finishing in third place would be the "cherry on the cake" for this season.
City need victory over Bolton Wanderers to be sure of automatic Champions League qualification.
"It's always tough against Bolton and they are strong on their own ground, but we have to go there, be mentally strong and give 100% because we can't rely on Fulham beating Arsenal," De Jong told City's website.
"If we do what we need to do we don't need favours from anyone else. It's been a long season but finishing third would be the cherry on the cake."
GFY, Mr. De Jong.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/football_focus/13453671.stm
Lawro's prediction
Fulham v Arsenal
The noises I'm hearing from inside the club are that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger won't be making major personnel changes this summer, which I have to say strikes me as particularly strange.
The world and his wife knows what needs to change there and what Wenger's problems are.
They're in danger of finishing fourth now - and considering their collapse in form since late March, I think that's exactly where they'll end up.
Fulham, so impressive last week at Birmingham, don't lose many at home and they have been very good in the second half of the season.
There was a spell, would you believe, that Mark Hughes' position was said to be under threat - which is utterly ridiculous when you consider he was without strikers Bobby Zamora and Andy Johnson.
Now, though, everyone can see that Hughes is a very good Premier League manager - sought after, I wouldn't mind guessing, by the likes of Aston Villa this summer - and he's led them on a fantastic run.
I'm backing them to end the season on a high.
Prediction: 2-1
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6941352,00.html
Cottagers confident on Hughes
Fulham believe boss will stay
Last Updated: May 20, 2011 9:04am
(http://img.skysports.com/11/02/660x350/Manchester-City-v-Fulham-Mark-Hughes_2568174.jpg)
Fulham expect Mark Hughes to remain at their helm for the 2011/12 campaign despite reports to the contrary.
It is understood that the Cottagers boss has a release clause in his contract which can be activated on 30th June.
He would still have another 12 months to run on the deal he penned last summer, but would be free to walk away from the club should he wish to do so.
A number of Fulham's Premier League rivals are reported to be keeping a close eye on Hughes' situation, as they plot managerial changes of their own.
Adamant
The Cottagers, though, are confident that their boss is going nowhere.
Talks regarding fresh terms are ongoing, with Fulham closing on a top-half finish, and a club spokesman has attempted to curb the distracting speculation regarding Hughes' future.
"Mark has made it clear that he is happy here and looking forward to the next campaign," said the spokesman.
"We are adamant that he will be staying at Fulham."
Taking His Chance
Friday 20th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Greening/general2.jpg)
Making only his fifth start of the season, Fulham midfielder Jonathan Greening certainly highlighted the depth of Fulham's squad last weekend with an influential display in the Whites' victory over Birmingham City.
Greening produced an impressive performance out wide, constantly occupying the home side's defence and playing a key role in the Team's second successive away win.
"I haven't played for quite a while and it was a bit of a surprise when my name came up in the team meeting before the game," said Greening as he looked back on his performance. "I didn't have a clue I was playing until a hour and a half before kick-off. It was nice to get out on the pitch, I just thought I'd try and enjoy myself, get a few touches of the ball and luckily for me I did all right. It was a good team performance and a good away win at a tough place to go."
Greening has usually been employed in the centre of midfield but as he explained, playing out on the wing was not a new experience for him.
"I prefer playing in centre midfield but I'll always try to do a job for the team if called upon," he said. "I think the Gaffer knows that I've played on the left before at West Brom for quite a few years and at Middlesbrough as well as Man United. So I think he knew I could play there.
"I've been training well all year, just waiting for my chance. I didn't get as many chances as I wanted but I waited patiently and I got my chance. It was nice to get a game but I just wish there were a few more games left in the season.
"I know Mousa and Simon Davies might be back for the next match and they're two quality players, so it will be up to the Gaffer to make the decision. If I can do another good job then great, if not I'll go back to the bench and keep working hard."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/GreeningSquadStrength.aspx#ixzz1MskyhHKA (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/GreeningSquadStrength.aspx#ixzz1MskyhHKA)
BIB
Friday 20th May 2011
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A Place In History
Friday 20th May 2011
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If you're looking to purchase a Season Ticket at Fulham Football Club| for the 2011/12 campaign, you will not just be supporting the oldest London club in the Barclays Premier League next season, you will be sitting in a stadium steeped in rich history.
There is arguably no other stadium that can match the unique character and matchday atmosphere of Craven Cottage. It is one of a kind that stands apart in the new era of modern stadia.
This week we guide you through the early years of the Cottage, from 1780 until the advent of World War II, when nearly 50,000 supporters packed themselves into the Cottage for a London derby against Millwall.
A Place In History - Part 1
The original 'Cottage' was built in 1780, by William Craven, the sixth Baron Craven. At the time, the surrounding areas were woods which made up part of Anne Boleyn's hunting grounds. It was lived in by Edward Bulwer-Lytton and other somewhat notable (and moneyed) persons until it was destroyed by fire in May 1888. Following that, the site was abandoned.
When representatives of Fulham first came across the land, in 1894, it was so overgrown that it took two years to be made suitable for football to be played on it. A deal had been done that meant this work was done by the owners of the ground, who then would receive a proportion of the gate receipts.
The first event at which there were any gate receipts was when Fulham played against Minerva in the Middlesex Senior Cup, on October 10th, 1896. The ground's first stand was built shortly after. Described as looking like an "orange box", it consisted of four wooden structures each holding some 250 seats, and later was affectionately nicknamed the "Rabbit hutch".
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Before the ground could become too well established, the now defunct London County Council became concerned with the level of safety at the ground, and tried to get it closed. A court case followed in January 1905, as a result of which Archibald Leitch, a Scottish architect who had rose to prominence after his building of Ibrox a few years prior, was hired to work on the stadium. In a scheme costing £15,000, he had a new pavilion (the modern Cottage itself) and a stand built, in his characteristic red brick style.
The image below was taken during an International between England and Wales in 1907, the famous Billy Meredith is pictured here scoring for Wales in a 1-1 draw. You can still clearly see the windows at the back of the then called Stevenage Road Stand.
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Below is a panoramic image of the Cottage taken from the Fulham's 2-0 defeat to Bury. The Bury side that day went on to win promotion to Division 1. The Johnny Haynes Stand, as it is known today, has not changed a great deal since then.
Fulham managed to stay up on the final day of the season thanks to a 1-0 final victory over Stockport.
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We have managed to unearth another image from 1934, the match shows Fulham goalkeeper Alf Tootil beating Plymouth's Jimmy Cookson to a through ball. The background shows a packed Putney End and Stevenage Road Stand. Crowds at the Cottage in the 1930s were at an all time high. The club's highest ever attendance of 49,335 was recorded against Millwall in October 1938.
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/CravenCottage/0ldImages/CottageHistory2.jpg)
Next week, keep and eye out for Part 2 of our Place in History feature, when we will be showing some remarkable images from the Johnny Haynes era, when the Club's greatest ever player graced the Craven Cottage turf.
Guarantee your place at the Cottage next season for another year of top flight football in SW6.|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/CottageHistoryPart1.aspx#ixzz1Msn9B4Y6 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/CottageHistoryPart1.aspx#ixzz1Msn9B4Y6)
Matchday Programme
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The 2010/11 Barclays Premier League season comes to an end on Sunday with Fulham hosting Arsenal at Craven Cottage for what promises to be an exciting finish to another positive campaign.
In what has undoubtedly been a year of progression for the Whites, Mark Hughes' side head into the encounter in confident mood having seen off Birmingham City comfortably last weekend to secure their third win in four matches.
Visiting Arsenal have enjoyed less fortune of late, with three defeats from their last four outings. However, Arsene Wenger's team will certainly not be taken lightly as they look to do all they can to leapfrog Manchester City and claim third place.
Fulham harbour winning ambitions too, and if results go their way, Whites fans could well be celebrating the equalling of the Club's highest top-flight finish of seventh. Both teams have plenty to play for, making Sunday's clash one not to be missed.
What's more, one lucky fan that purchases a matchday programme could will be heading to Malta with a friend courtesy of our Official European Airline Partner Air Malta and our regular Lucky Programme Number competition.
With its sleek design, the must read 84-page publication comes packed full of Fulham facts and info, in-depth discussion, exclusive player interaction, innovative features and detailed coverage of your favourite club.
This week's essential Matchday read also includes:
A message from Fulham Manager Mark Hughes.
Danny Murphy's views as Club Captain, plus an exclusive detailed feature with the skipper himself.
Defender Philippe Senderos on his comeback, recent run in the First Team and his time at today's opponents Arsenal.
Expert Analysis from former Fulham and Arsenal favourite Moritz Volz.
An insight into the opposition's camp with Jack Wilshere.
A look back at season 2010/11 in pictures.
All the action from the U18s' Premier Academy League Final and a look back on another positive year from Academy Director Huw Jennings.
The popular Black & White Eye, covering all things Fulham.
Match action from our games with Liverpool and Birmingham City.
Unprecedented fan interaction and tonnes of fun for younger fans too.
Plus, so much more besides!
The brilliant publication will be on sale in and around the ground from two hours before kick-off and at half-time.
If you miss your copy outside then look out for sellers on the Putney and Hammersmith Terrace, or at half-time from the programme room situated inside the Johnny Haynes Stand by Block E (opposite Turnstile 24).
Buy Matchday Programmes online|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Fanzone/FFCMatchdayProgramme.aspx#ixzz1MsptlciQ (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Fanzone/FFCMatchdayProgramme.aspx#ixzz1MsptlciQ)
http://www.teamtalk.com/match/preview/978/6941362/Fulham-v-Arsenal-preview (http://www.teamtalk.com/match/preview/978/6941362/Fulham-v-Arsenal-preview)
GUNNERS SWEAT ON TRIO
Friday 20th May 2011 9:11
Team news for Sunday's clash between Fulham and Arsenal.
Arsenal will hand late fitness tests to midfielders Samir Nasri (hamstring) and Abou Diaby (calf) as well as full-back Gael Clichy (hamstring) ahead of Sunday's Barclays Premier League trip to Fulham.
Tomas Rosicky (thigh), Johan Djourou (ankle) and Laurent Koscielny (thigh) will also be assessed, having missed last week's home defeat by Aston Villa.
Captain Cesc Fabregas, however, remains sidelined by a thigh problem.
Teams:
Fulham (from): Will appear here...
Arsenal (from): Szczesny, Gibbs, Squillaci, Vermaelen, Sagna, Arshavin, Song, Ramsey, Wilshere, Walcott, van Persie, Lehmann, Chamakh, Bendtner, Denilson, Eboue, Nasri, Diaby, Clichy, Rosicky, Djourou, Koscielny.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/-hughes-has-changed-the-system-a-bit-?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+arsenal-news+%28News+Feed%29 (http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/-hughes-has-changed-the-system-a-bit-?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+arsenal-news+%28News+Feed%29)
'Hughes has changed the system a bit'
So what sort of Fulham side can Arsenal expect to face on Sunday in their final Premier League fixture of the season?
We spoke to Paul Warburton of the Kensington and Chelsea News to get a Fulham perspective on the game.
FORM BOOK
The 5-2 defeat to Liverpool came completely out of the blue because Fulham are strong at home. Craven Cottage has been good to them and they have mastered the technique of getting points at home. They were playing well up to that point and even managed an away win just prior to that, at Sunderland. Everyone expected it to be a close game against Liverpool but they got blown away in the first 20 minutes and never recovered.
REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL
Fulham have come on strong in the second half of the season and that was always Mark Hughes' plan. He builds up his team to be fit enough for the whole season and he planned it this way. So it's not surprising that they have had a decent 2011.
THE MAN IN CHARGE
Mark Hughes has changed the system a bit without changing the personnel. Roy Hodgson, by the players' admission, waited for things to happen but Hughes has gone for a bit more of an attacking option and has tended to go at teams a bit more. He has made the players extremely fit so you can see why he improved the ones he had already. Eighth position in the table underlines that.
FORMER GUNNER
It all depends on how Hughes decides to play but I would think the chances of seeing Philippe Senderos are pretty good. He has had a torrid time with an Achilles problem that has kept him out all season. It is one of those seasons that he will look to forget and kick on for the next campaign.
Arsenal Gold: Classic Fulham encounters
GOLD
Fulham 0-1 Arsenal (September 26, 2009)
13 mins 0 seconds
GOLD
Fulham 0-3 Arsenal (January 19, 2008)
16 mins 31 seconds
GOLD
Fulham 0-3 Arsenal (September 11, 2004)
3 mins 55 seconds
The countdown to Arsenal's next match starts here.
Before every fixture you can take a trip down memory lane with some previous encounters against our forthcoming opponents. Click on the scores for match reports and click on the PLAY buttons to watch the best of the action from each game.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/38231/arsenal-gold-classic-fulham-encounters?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+arsenal-news+%28News+Feed%29
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/fulham-v-arsenal-paddy-power-s-preview?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+arsenal-news+%28News+Feed%29 (http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/fulham-v-arsenal-paddy-power-s-preview?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+arsenal-news+%28News+Feed%29)
Fulham v Arsenal - Paddy Power's Preview
Fulham v Arsenal
A Champions League Qualifying Round will prove little more than a minor inconvenience at the start of next season but, if for pride alone, it is still something Arsène Wenger would rather avoid. Last week's defeat has taken the control away from Arsenal but if Manchester City slip-up at Bolton then the Gunners will want to capitalise by taking all three points at Craven Cottage. Even if Manchester City do win, the manager and players alike will want to finish the season on some kind of high after signing off at the Emirates in such disappointing fashion.
Fulham are a tough nut to crack at home, though Wenger will have been encouraged by the manner with which they came undone against Liverpool's attacking football a few weeks back. Mark Hughes has done an excellent job with the Cottagers and has unsurprisingly been linked with other jobs. Thanks to the Fair Play League his side now look certain to be playing in the Europa League next season and he will want to end a good season with a home win over one of the top four.
Before the Liverpool game Fulham had gone eight Premier League games unbeaten at home, winning seven, thanks to a solid defence, a usually reliable keeper and a hard-working but creative midfield. Having Bobby Zamora back in the frontline is a big plus for Hughes and he is a player the Arsenal backline will need to keep tight to.
Robin van Persie maintained his scoring form against Aston Villa and the 6/5 on him to score anytime looks a good bet considering he's scored in eight of Arsenal's last ten games. An 80 per cent strike rate has to be worth taking a chance on.
Despite their recent form Arsenal do still have the best away record in the Premier League, though some may be put off by their odds on price of 10/11. If they can match Liverpool's performance then there's money to be made taking Arsenal -1 goal at 5/2 but that's a very risky bet. In fact the truly cautious among you may be considering taking on the draw at 11/4. It wouldn't be the most satisfying of ends to a season but it would be a profitable one.
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23952065-fulham-target-crystal-palace-gem.do (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23952065-fulham-target-crystal-palace-gem.do)
Fulham target Crystal Palace gem
Ian Gibb
20 May 2011
Fulham want to sign Crystal Palace teenager Wilfried Zaha in exchange for midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi and a cash adjustment.
Dikgacoi, 26, made only one appearance for Fulham this season but was a big hit at Palace, where he made 13 starts and hit the only goal in a crucial 1-0 win over Cardiff.
Both Fulham and Liverpool have been tracking Zaha's progress since the 18-year-old winger played for England Under-19s against Germany in February.
Palace are reluctant to let go of Zaha but want Dikgacoi to come on a permanent deal, worth around £2.5 million