http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/europa-league-could-hand-kagisho-dikgacoi-fulham-lifeline-82029-28734412/ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/europa-league-could-hand-kagisho-dikgacoi-fulham-lifeline-82029-28734412/)
Europa League could hand Kagisho Dikgacoi Fulham lifeline
By Jacob Murtagh
May 20 2011
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/aug2010/2/8/kagisho-dikgacoi-image-1-308715075.jpg)
KAGISHO Dikgacoi's Fulham future hinges on whether the Whites qualify for the Europa League.
The South African midfielder, who still has a year left on his contract, has threatened to quit Craven Cottage unless he's guaranteed first-team football after spending this season out in the cold.
However, boss Mark Hughes has warned the 26-year-old he faces a fight to force his way into his plans next campaign.
But Sparky admitted he would have to draw on his whole squad if Fulham were handed a back door into Europe through the Fair Play league, which could give Dikgacoi, who spent the second half of the season on loan at Crystal Palace, a lifeline.
He said: "I can't guarantee anyone first-team football week in, week out – he has to understand that.
"When I got the job he was out injured, so I didn't have the opportunity to see him.
"He needs to come back and reintegrate himself in the summer. If we get European football he'll be a part of that."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/europa-league-could-hand-kagisho-dikgacoi-fulham-lifeline-82029-28734412/#ixzz1MvGVymhN (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/europa-league-could-hand-kagisho-dikgacoi-fulham-lifeline-82029-28734412/#ixzz1MvGVymhN)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6942428,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6942428,00.html)
Hughes eyeing seventh heaven
Boss praises Cottagers side who could finish seventh in top flight
Last Updated: May 20, 2011 5:35pm
(http://img.skysports.com/11/02/660x350/Manchester-City-v-Fulham-Mark-Hughes_2568174.jpg)
Hughes: Hailed the massive turnaround in his side
Mark Hughes has hailed his players as Fulham go into Sunday's clash against Arsenal with a chance of finishing seventh in the top flight.
Improved form in the second half of the season has seen the Cottagers rise to eighth in the table, three points behind seventh-placed Everton.
If Fulham beat the Gunners and the Toffees lose to Chelsea, they will equal their best-ever top-flight finish.
While Hughes has regularly aired his belief that the Cottagers are a top-10 side, even he admits he has been surprised by his squad's achievements.
"We have had a massive turnaround in the second half of the season and I always anticipated we would."
Mark Hughes
Quotes of the week
"We have had a massive turnaround in the second half of the season and I always anticipated we would," he said.
"We knew that key personnel would return like Bobby (Zamora) and Andy Johnson, who had missed a lot of games and was only just getting back to full fitness.
"We always said we would be strong in the second half but probably we even exceed our expectations in the second half.
"We have been really strong and really enjoyed it. We have played some great football, got plenty of points and done really well."
Personal pride
Asked whether he takes any personal pride after the turnaround, he added: "I think so. Obviously I am the figurehead of the club but it is more about the recognition my staff get.
"At times we are a little but under the radar and we just go about our business quite quietly.
"It is only towards the end of the season when people think: 'Oh, goodness me, Fulham have actually done quite well this year'.
"It is not about personal recognition, I've had plenty of that in my career.
"It is about making sure that the staff get the recognition they deserve because without them I can't do my job."
Hughes was also quick to laud his players' attitude - an attribute that some have suggested is lacking at Sunday's opponents Arsenal.
The Gunners head into the final match of the season on the back of a run that has seen them win just twice in their past 12 matches.
"I am a little but surprised by the way they have tailed off," said Hughes. "At one point they could have won four trophies.
"I think it has been mentioned in the media this week that the Carling Cup final affected them markedly and they haven't seemed to recover from that for whatever reason.
Potential
"But they have still got the potential to create chances and win Premier League games.
"They are an outstanding team on their day. I know recent results have not gone as they would like but within that run they still had the ability to beat Manchester United.
"That tells you that they are a very good team and if they are focused and the intensity of their play is there then they are very difficult to overcome."
Much of the blame for Arsenal's poor form has been apportioned to the club's inability to bring in a top quality goalkeeper during the summer.
Fulham keeper Mark Schwarzer was targeted to shore up the position but a move to the Emirates Stadium never came to fruition.
Asked whether Hughes was surprised Arsenal did not come back with a better bid, Hughes said: "Well they could probably have not worked any harder [to get him] but the intention was to keep Mark and that is what happened.
"Their situation in regards to their goalkeeper is not something that really interests me now because the focus they had on my keeper has gone away now because we protected our position.
"That is important and was important for Mark at the time, that we showed the commitment that we had as a club and myself as the manager and we are delighted with that.
"It only in the past few years that they haven't won trophies and as a consequence more people question the decisions that are made or aren't made and that is what Arsene (Wenger) is facing at the moment."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/may/20/squad-sheets-fulham-arsenal (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/may/20/squad-sheets-fulham-arsenal)
Squad sheets: Fulham v Arsenal
Guardian.co.uk, Friday 20 May 2011 18.10
The battle for seventh is not one the hype-merchants have been getting excited about, but it means a lot to Mark Hughes. Beat Arsenal and Fulham could leapfrog Everton and equal their highest ever Premier League finish, thereby enabling Hughes to prove that he has successfully replaced Roy Hodgson. In addition, Hughes has introduced a spirit of adventure into Fulham's play that was not always there under his predecessor, which means this match could be one of the most entertaining of the weekend, especially as Arsenal will be looking to win in order to climb back above Manchester City and avoid the Champions League qualifying-round next season. Paul Doyle
Venue Craven Cottage, Sunday 4pm
Tickets Sold out
Last season Fulham 0 Arsenal 1
Referee M Atkinson
This season's matches 25 Y89, R6, 3.65 cards per game
Odds Fulham 11-4 Arsenal 17-20 Draw 12-5
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Sport/Pix/pictures/2011/5/20/1305911376859/Fulham-v-Arsenal-Probable-001.jpg)
Fulham v Arsenal: Probable starters in bold, contenders in light. Photograph: Graphic
Fulham
Subs from Stockdale, Hughes, Etheridge, Kelly, Briggs, Riise, Halliche, Greening, E Johnson, Dikgacoi, Gera, Kakuta
Doubtful None
Injured Duff (achilles, Aug), Kamara (back, unknown), Dembélé (knee, unknown)
Suspended Baird (one) Form guide WLWWDL
Disciplinary record Y51 R0
Leading scorer Dempsey 12
Arsenal
Subs from Alumnia, Lehmann, Diaby, Djourou, Koscielny, Rosicky, Eboué, Gibbs, Denilson, Bendtner, Song, Chamakh Doubtful Clichy (hamstring), Nasri (hamstring), Diaby (calf), Djourou (ankle), Koscielny (thigh), Rosicky (thigh) Injured Fábregas (thigh, Jun), Fabianski (shoulder op, Aug), Bartley (knee, unknown), Eastmond (ankle, unknown), Mannone (thigh, unknown)
Suspended None Form guide LLWLDD
Disciplinary record Y66 R6
Leading scorer Van Persie 17
Match pointers
• None of Fulham's nine home games against Arsenal in the Premier League have ended as a draw
• The visitors have scored exactly four goals on the final day in three of the last five seasons
• Fulham have never drawn a Premier League game on the final day of the season
• Robin van Persie has scored as many top-flight goals in 2011 as the entire Blackburn squad put together
• A total of 12 goals have been scored from corners at Craven Cottage this season, a divisional high
Arsenal Preview
Friday 20th May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/Hughes/General3.jpg)
Fulham go into the final game of the season on Sunday in the knowledge that should they record a win over Arsenal and Everton lose in their encounter with Chelsea, Fulham will finish in seventh position – equalling the Whites' highest ever league finish.
However, speaking on Friday afternoon, Mark Hughes highlighted the quality of Sunday's opponents.
"They still have the potential to create chances and win Premier League games because they are an outstanding Premier League team on their day," explained the Fulham Manager. "I know that recent results wouldn't have gone how they would have liked, but they still have the ability to beat Manchester United. That tells you that they are a very good team and if they focus, and the intensity to their play is there, then they are very difficult to overcome."
Fulham's upturn in form since the New Year has certainly made many take notice, but as Hughes always maintained, he knew his side had the ability to push on in the second half of the season.
"I think that in the circumstances, when we look back at the season, there was a reason that I came here," he said. "I knew that there was good players here, there was a base and there was the possibility to work with a good group of players and maybe take them up a level in terms of their play in the Premier League.
"The ambition is obviously to be a side which is consistently in the top 10 finishers and I looked at the squad that was in place and I thought that we had the potential to do that.
"Obviously, we were affected by injuries and that made it really difficult and people had to be calm at the right time. I had great support from Alistair Mackintosh and our Chairman and that enabled us, and enabled me, to keep on working at the level I knew that I needed to. We came through a difficult period."
Hughes is also looking forward to welcoming Simon Davies back to the squad after the Welsh winger participated in full training on Friday.
"Mousa Dembele is missing again, he has just got a slight problem with his knee, a little bit of irritation, which we will investigate this week," Hughes said. "There is no concern, he doesn't need an operation, it's a biomechanical thing which has irritated the knee.
"We will get that resolved but obviously in the meantime he is not available. Simon Davies has trained today and he should be an option for us and Duff is obviously out for us as well."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/HughesArsenalPreview.aspx#ixzz1MvJu98hl (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/HughesArsenalPreview.aspx#ixzz1MvJu98hl)
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
(http://i.thisislondon.co.uk/i/pix/gen/2011/05/wilfried-zaha-crystal-palace-fc-12563.jpg)
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 £2.5million.
http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/05/20/fulham-v-arsenal-preview-arsene-wenger-desperate-for-stylish-fi/
Fulham v Arsenal Preview: Arsene Wenger Desperate for Stylish Finale
20/5/2011 7:58 AM GMT
By Jon West
PREMIER LEAGUE: CRAVEN COTTAGE, SUNDAY MAY 22, 2011. KICK-OFF: 1600 BST
Though the trophies have long been distributed elsewhere, suddenly Arsenal need to win this one - and even if they do they could end up being disappointed.
Following last week's lacklustre home defeat at the hands of Aston Villa, Manchester City have now taken third place in the Premier League table - and should the Gunners remain in fourth then they will have to play in the qualifiers for next season's Champions League group stage.
Some very patchy form since the Carling Cup was surrendered in the final to Birmingham is the reason for that and Arsene Wenger's side must now end this season as it did last term, by beating Fulham.
Their west London neighbours also have European qualification on their minds as a surprise return to the Europa League, which saw them end as beaten finalists last season, is on the cards through the Fair Play league, though the final places as far as that table is concerned will take some working out even after the final whistle of the season.
Fulham qualified for the Europa League the last time by finishing seventh and although there is no Europa League place for that position this time, that is where they will end up if they win and Everton lose.
Key Match-up: Brede Hangeland v Robin van Persie. With 20 goals in his last 22 games, van Persie is in hot form, even if Arsenal are not. Hangeland will be detailed to stop him - and cause havoc from set-pieces at the other end, as he did twice at Birmingham last week.
Form Guide: Fulham have won three of their last four, beating Bolton, Sunderland and Birmingham but were soundly beaten by Liverpool. Arsenal have won just three games in all competitions since the Carling Cup final loss on February 27.
Odds: Fulham 3/1, Arsenal 10/11, draw 13/5
FULHAM:
All eyes will be on Fulham's former Gunner Philippe Senderos, who insists he has nothing to prove to Arsene Wenger for declaring him surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium.
The Switzerland defender did make more than 100 appearances for the Gunners but moved across the capital following loan spells with AC Milan and Everton. An Achilles injury delayed his Fulham bow but the 26-year-old is set to play following impressive performances alongside Hangeland.
"I had some great years at Arsenal," he declared. "I won the title, the Cup and made the Champions League. I owe a lot to Arsenal and Arsene Wenger, who brought me over from Switzerland to play in the Champions League for one of the best clubs in the world.
"So I don't have anything to prove but I'd like to prove to myself that I can play in the Premier League."
Strategy: Curiously, Fulhamm have gone from the best-behaved side in the Premier League with just 40 matches in 35 games to one of the worst, with ten yellow cards picked up in the last two games.
That could enable another club to take that Fair Play place from them, although Spurs will qualify for the competition by finishing fifth if they finish ahead of Liverpool anyway.
Blackpool could pip them in theory as well so will manager Mark Hughes instruct his players to take it easy against the Gunners? Somehow that seems unlikely.
Injury Update: Damien Duff and Diomansy Kamara are injured while Chris Baird is suspended. Simon Davies should return after a calf problem.
ARSENAL:
Arsenal players must prove they are fit to wear the red and white shirt. Who says so? Not a disgruntled fan but Wenger himself as the Gunners are left hoping for news of a Bolton win on the final day.
"It is not over and we have to fight until the last minute of the season to show that we are good enough to wear the shirt of this club," the Frenchman declared somewhat long-windedly.
"What motivates me is the desire to win and to be strong and successful in what I do. That is what has motivated me my whole life. A man and a player who can take care of the future is a responsible man.
"For us to take care of the future is to absolutely give the maximum to get into the top three. There is no way, at this moment, we can say 'OK, the season is over'."
Strategy: Given that Jack Wilshere will be appearing for his country in the European Under-21 Championship finals next week against his manager's wishes, it would be no surprise if Wenger decided the teenager needed to be rested.
But with Cesc Fabregas out injured, Wenger does not have a full range of options as his disposal anyway so needs probably must.
"I have heard that he has been picked," Wenger said of Wilshere. "We have to accept and respect the choice even if I think it is the wrong decision. Jack Wilshere has been in the red for a while now and this can be a risk for his health.
"He knows that he is nearly at the end of his energy level but he is keen to do well."
Injury Update: Fabregas may not be the only high-profile absentee as Samir Nasri, Gael Clichy and Abou Diaby all face fitness tests.
http://www.hackneygazette.co.uk/football/arsenal/arsenal_want_european_place_but_maybe_fulham_don_t_1_897322
Arsenal want European place, but maybe Fulham don't
By Ian Cooper
Friday, May 20, 2011
2:19 PM
(http://www.hackneygazette.co.uk/polopoly_fs/mark_hughes_a_1_897319!image/21662657.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_225/21662657.jpg)
Gunners' hosts on Sunday could qualify through back door of Uefa's mystifying Fair Play league
THE words 'Europa League' have seemingly become the most unpopular in Premier League vocabulary recently, and Fulham are the latest club to voice their displeasure at the prospect of playing in next season's competition.
With Tottenham the occupants of fifth-place in the Premier League, and accordingly on course for that Europa League spot, Fulham are also in line to qualify thanks to their second-place position behind Spurs in the Premier League Fair Play table.
However, that would see the Cottagers begin their campaign on June 30 – 39 days after the current season ends – in the first round qualifiers.
For Mark Hughes, who replaced Roy Hodgson as Fulham boss at the start of the season, European football so soon before the domestic campaign would present an unwelcome distraction, the manager only recently admitting he was looking forward to spending pre-season working on his squad, a chance he didn't have last season.
Hughes has done a creditable job in his first season with the Cottagers, his side currently sitting eighth in the Premier League after recent impressive wins at Birmingham and Sunderland.
They host Arsenal on the back of a heavy defeat in their last home game to Liverpool, but that result was an anomaly, with Fulham having previously not lost there in the league since December.
Hughes's side is sprinkled with players of quality, from veteran Mark Schwarzer in goal, through a defence containing centre-back Brede Hangeland, once an Arsenal target, and Mexico international left-back Carlos Salcido.
Danny Murphy and Steve Sidwell anchor a three-man midfield, with Clint Dempsey and Simon Davies the wide men supporting either Bobby Zamora or Andy Johnson up front.
Fulham will want to end their home campaign on a high and, with little riding on the match,
expect them to play with the shackles off and pose Arsenal plenty of problems.
Prediction: Fulham 2 Arsenal 2
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/05/20/hughes-can-manage-chelsea-or-manchester-united-hoddle-64767-28727610/ (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/05/20/hughes-can-manage-chelsea-or-manchester-united-hoddle-64767-28727610/)
Hughes can manage Chelsea or Manchester United - Hoddle
May 20 2011
By Paul Warburton
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/ealinggazette/aug2010/0/6/mark-hughes-image-3-359247349.jpg)
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.
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/05/20/fulham-boss-sets-sights-on-summer-signings-82029-28733130/ (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/05/20/fulham-boss-sets-sights-on-summer-signings-82029-28733130/)
Fulham boss sets sights on summer signings
May 20 2011
By Jacob Murtagh
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/aug2010/9/9/mark-hughes-image-1-920600551.jpg)
MARK Hughes wants to qualify for the Europa League to help Fulham's summer recruitment drive.
The Whites go into Sunday's game with Arsenal in pole position to secure a spot in Europe through the Fair Play League.
Hughes wants to add a couple of players to his squad in the close season, and admits the lure of European football could boost his chances of landing his targets.
He said: "We are okay with numbers, so if we can add some quality we will try and do that.
"If you are trying to attract players from Europe and around the world and can offer them European football it's an added advantage.
"It's important to players and could be the difference between getting a good player or not.
"If we present a good case for each player I would like to bring in and the figures add up I am sure the finances will be available."
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/fulham-boss-snubs-west-brom-s-interest-in-andy-johnson-82029-28733366/ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/fulham-boss-snubs-west-brom-s-interest-in-andy-johnson-82029-28733366/)
Fulham boss snubs West Brom's interest in Andy Johnson
By Jacob Murtagh
May 20 2011
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/jan2011/6/3/andy-johnson-image-2-542108392.jpg)
MARK Hughes has rubbished rumours linking Andy Johnson with a move away from Craven Cottage.
The Fulham frontman is a summer target for West Brom, but Whites boss Hughes insists the former England striker is staying put in SW6.
He said: "AJ's under contract here and we have no intention of selling him.
"He's playing well now after his injury and the end of the season has probably come too soon for him."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/fulham-boss-snubs-west-brom-s-interest-in-andy-johnson-82029-28733366/#ixzz1MvNPf3dF (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/fulham-boss-snubs-west-brom-s-interest-in-andy-johnson-82029-28733366/#ixzz1MvNPf3dF)
http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/patience-pays-off-for-cottagers-midfielder- (http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/patience-pays-off-for-cottagers-midfielder-)
Patience pays off for Cottagers midfielder
Fulham – Jonathan Greening has been biding his time
By Paul Bailey May 20, 2011
(http://www.givemefootball.com/GMF/files/c4/c4786c67-1528-4d15-9a9f-b591ea716c28.jpg)
Greening has been working hard all season. (©PAphotos)Picture GalleryNew
Fulham midfielder Jonathan Greening highlighted the depth of squad at manager Mark Hughes' disposal, after turning in an influential display last weekend.
Making only his fifth start of the campaign, Greening played a starring role in the Cottagers away trip to Birmingham City, helping them to a second successive away win after a convincing 2-0 victory at St Andrews.
"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," he said.
"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 is relishing being back in the first team fold, and is hoping his recent performance will give him a fighting chance of inclusion when Fulham take on Arsenal at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
"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 (Dembele) 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."
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/05/20/simon-davies-hands-fulham-fitness-boost-ahead-of-arsenal-clash-82029-28733384/ (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/05/20/simon-davies-hands-fulham-fitness-boost-ahead-of-arsenal-clash-82029-28733384/)
Simon Davies hands Fulham fitness boost ahead of Arsenal clash
May 20 2011
By Jacob Murtagh
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/jul2010/6/7/simon-davies-image-1-64502358.jpg)
Fulham v Arsenal
FULHAM are boosted by the return of Simon Davies for Sunday's clash at Craven Cottage.
The Welsh winger missed last weekend's win at Birmingham with a calf problem, but returned to training today.
However, Mousa Dembele is still sidelined with a knee problem, while Damien Duff is also out.
The Whites could finish seventh if results go their way, and boss Mark Hughes insists his side's performances after the turn of the year has exceeded his expectations.
He said: "It's been a massive turnaround in the second-half of the season.
"We always anticipated we would improve with the return of key personnel like Bobby [Zamora] and Andy Johnson.
"We've been really strong and have exceeded our own expectations."
FULHAM v Arsenal: Moussa Dembele joins Chris Baird and Damien Duff on the sidelines
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 3:31 PM on 20th May 2011
Moussa Dembele has been ruled out of Fulham's final Barclays Premier League game of the season against Arsenal.
The 23-year-old will miss the Craven Cottage clash with a knee irritation, although the west Londoners will be boosted by Simon Davies' return to action after a calf injury.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/05/20/article-1389171-0B76E65B00000578-266_468x337.jpg)
Struggle: Dembele (left) has had a tough first season in the Premier League
Northern Ireland full-back Chris Baird serves the second game of a two-match ban and Damien Duff is out with an achilles injury.
Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Hangeland, Senderos, Hughes, Salcido, Etuhu, Davies, Murphy, Sidwell, Greening, Dempsey, Zamora, Johnson, Stockdale, Kelly, Gudjohnsen, Kakuta, Gera.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1389171/FULHAM-v-Arsenal-Moussa-Dembele-joins-Chris-Baird-Damien-Duff-sidelines.html#ixzz1MvPba6pG (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1389171/FULHAM-v-Arsenal-Moussa-Dembele-joins-Chris-Baird-Damien-Duff-sidelines.html#ixzz1MvPba6pG)
Mark Hughes makes Carlos Salcido admission
By Jacob Murtagh
May 20 2011
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/sep2010/3/5/carlos-salcido-image-1-587598480.jpg)
MARK Hughes admits defender Carlos Salcido could leave Fulham in the summer.
The wantaway left-back has failed to settle in London since his switch from PSV Eindhoven last year, with his family moving back to Mexico following a robbery at their home in the capital.
And boss Hughes admits they may be forced to let the 31-year-old quit Craven Cottage.
He said: "The situation is his family haven't been able to settle. There was a robbery at his home and his family have gone back to Mexico.
"Carlos has got that to deal with but hopefully the club resolve it to a positive conclusion in terms of him being able to stay.
"If that still is a problem he may have to look at his options back home. We understand that.
"We have to protect our own position. There's a lot of dialogue going on but it's up in the air at the moment."
The Whites manager has been linked with a string of left-backs should Salcido depart, but insists Paul Konchesky is not on his list of targets.
Hughes added: "We have to look at alternatives."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/mark-hughes-makes-carlos-salcido-admission-82029-28734549/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#ixzz1MvdTyGnN (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/05/20/mark-hughes-makes-carlos-salcido-admission-82029-28734549/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#ixzz1MvdTyGnN)
Fulham v ARSENAL: Samir Nasri amongst trio in contention to return
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 11:58 AM on 20th May 2011
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.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/05/20/article-0-0BB674B500000578-404_468x286.jpg)
Gunner return? Samir Nasri has been missing since the 1-0 win over Manchester United at the start of the month
Captain Cesc Fabregas, however, remains sidelined by a thigh problem.
Team (from): Szczesny, Gibbs, Squillaci, Vermaelen, Sagna, Arshavin, Song, Ramsey, Wilshere, Walcott, van Persie, Lehmann, Chamakh, Bendtner, Denilson, Eboue, Nasri, Diaby, Clichy, Rosicky, Djourou, Koscielny.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1389078/Fulham-v-ARSENAL-Samir-Nasri-trio-contention-return.html#ixzz1MveGLE69 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1389078/Fulham-v-ARSENAL-Samir-Nasri-trio-contention-return.html#ixzz1MveGLE69)
http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/football/news/article/-/9489310/hughes-delighted-with-fulham-performance-this-season/ (http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/football/news/article/-/9489310/hughes-delighted-with-fulham-performance-this-season/)
Hughes delighted with Fulham performance this season
tribalfootball.com
May 21, 2011, 7:07 am
Fulham boss Mark Hughes admits the performance of his squad this term has exceeded all expectations.
The Cottagers sit eighth on the league table with just Sunday's clash with Arsenal remaining and their Welsh manager has heaped praise on the playing group for producing a season, particularly the second half, to be proud of.
"We have had a massive turnaround in the second half of the season and I always anticipated we would," he said.
"We knew that key personnel would return like Bobby (Zamora) and Andy Johnson, who had missed a lot of games and was only just getting back to full fitness.
"We always said we would be strong in the second half but probably we even exceed our expectations in the second half.
"We have been really strong and really enjoyed it. We have played some great football, got plenty of points and done really well."
Fulham have lost just five of their last 19 matches after losing six in 11 prior to the New Year and Hughes has put a lot if down to the hard work done behind the scenes.
"At times we are a little but under the radar and we just go about our business quite quietly," he added.
"It is only towards the end of the season when people think: 'Oh, goodness me, Fulham have actually done quite well this year'.
"It is not about personal recognition, I've had plenty of that in my career.
"It is about making sure that the staff get the recognition they deserve because without them I can't do my job."
http://www.soccerway.com/news/2011/May/20/hughes-set-to-sign-new-deal-with-fulham/ (http://www.soccerway.com/news/2011/May/20/hughes-set-to-sign-new-deal-with-fulham/)
Hughes set to sign new deal with Fulham
20 May 2011
(http://www.soccerway.com/photo_dynamic/orig/250/relative/12427239180.jpg)
Fulham manager Mark Hughes will sit down with the club to discuss a new deal in the summer, ending speculation he could move on. Fulham manager Mark Hughes will sit down with the club to discuss a new deal in the summer, ending speculation he could move on.
The former Manchester City boss has taken the Cottagers from relegation candidates to the brink of their best ever top-flight finish and that has attracted a number of clubs.
But Hughes is focussed on continuing his work at Craven Cottage.
"I've been speaking to the club for a number of weeks but we have not actually sat down and discussed the fine details of it," Hughes said.
"Conversations have taken place and I am sure we will get where we want to get."
"What I have been trying to reaffirm to everybody is that I am very happy here."
"I have a good support network that allows me to do my job well and that is not something you walk away quickly from."
On the subject of Sunday's opponents, Hughes has pinpointed the moment he thinks Arsenal went from quadruple contenders to Premier League also-rans but he is aware of the threat they still pose.
"The League Cup final affected them and they haven't seemed to have recovered from that," Hughes said.
"They still have the potential to create chances and win Premier League games. I know in recent weeks results haven't gone their way but they still had the ability to beat Manchester United."
The final game of the season could give Hughes the chance to prove to striker Andrew Johnson, who has been linked with a move away in the summer, that he still has a future at the club.
"He is contracted to the club and Andy is playing really well now," Hughes said.
"The end of the season has probably come too soon for him because he is probably looking as sharp as I have seen him."
One striker that will not be featuring is Mousa Dembele who has been ruled out of the final game with a knee injury but midfielder Simon Davies has a chance of playing after recovering from a calf injury and making a successful return to training after missing the win over Birmingham.
Damien Duff is ruled out with a knee complaint.
Fulham "have exceeded all expections" says Hughes
Published 17:21 20/05/11
By MirrorFootball
(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/incoming/article702907.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/Fulham-v-Bolton-Wanderers-Mark-Hughes-FA-Cup+cropped)
Fulham manager Mark Hughes admits his side have exceeded all expectations as they head into this weekend's game against Arsenal with a chance of finishing seventh in the Barclays Premier League.
The Cottagers endured a poor start to the campaign and were flirting with relegation at the turn of the year, leading to speculation that Hughes could lose his job.
However, Fulham's form in the second half of the season has been nothing less than outstanding and they head into Sunday's match with a chance of sneaking into the top seven.
If the Cottagers beat Arsenal and Everton lose to Chelsea they will equal their best-ever top-flight finish.
While Hughes has regularly aired his belief that the Cottagers are a top-10 side, even he admits he has been surprised by his side's achievements.
"We have had a massive turnaround in the second half of the season and I always anticipated we would," he said.
"We knew that key personnel would return like Bobby (Zamora) and Andy Johnson, who had missed a lot of games and was only just getting back to full fitness.
"We always said we would be strong in the second half but probably we even exceed our expectations in the second half.
"We have been really strong and really enjoyed it. We have played some great football, got plenty of points and done really well."
Asked whether he takes any personal pride after the turnaround, he added: "I think so. Obviously I am the figurehead of the club but it is more about the recognition my staff get.
"At times we are a little but under the radar and we just go about our business quite quietly.
"It is only towards the end of the season when people think: 'Oh, goodness me, Fulham have actually done quite well this year'.
"It is not about personal recognition, I've had plenty of that in my career.
"It is about making sure that the staff get the recognition they deserve because without them I can't do my job."
Hughes was also quick to laud his players' attitude - an attribute that some have suggested is lacking at Sunday's opponents Arsenal.
The Gunners head into the final match of the season on the back of a run that has seen them win just twice in their past 12 matches.
"I am a little but surprised by the way they have tailed off," said Hughes. "At one point they could have won four trophies.
"I think it has been mentioned in the media this week that the Carling Cup final affected them markedly and they haven't seemed to recovered from that for whatever reason.
"But they have still got the potential to create chances and win Premier League games.
"They are an outstanding team on their day. I know recent results have not gone as they would like but within that run they still had the ability to beat Manchester United.
"That tells you that they are a very good team and if they are focused and the intensity of their play is there then they are very difficult to overcome."
Much of the blame for Arsenal's poor form has been apportioned to the club's inability to bring in a top quality goalkeeper during the summer.
Fulham keeper Mark Schwarzer was one of targeted to sure up the position but a move to the Emirates Stadium never came to fruition.
Asked whether Hughes was surprised Arsenal did not come back with a better bid, Hughes said: "Well they could probably have not worked any harder [to get him] but the intention was to keep Mark and that is what happened.
"Their situation in regards to their goalkeeper is not something that really interests me now because the focus they had on my keeper has gone away now because we protected our position.
"That is important and was important for Mark at the time, that we showed the commitment that we had as a club and myself as the manager and we are delighted with that.
"It only in the past few years that they haven't won trophies and as a consequence more people question the decisions that are made or aren't made and that is what Arsene (Wenger) is facing at the moment."
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-manager-Mark-Hughes-feels-his-side-have-exceeded-all-expectations-by-recovering-from-poor-start-to-the-season-article738660.html#ixzz1MvlhABEF (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-manager-Mark-Hughes-feels-his-side-have-exceeded-all-expectations-by-recovering-from-poor-start-to-the-season-article738660.html#ixzz1MvlhABEF)
http://fulham.theoffside.com/match-preview/match-preview-arsenal-h.html (http://fulham.theoffside.com/match-preview/match-preview-arsenal-h.html)
Match Preview: Arsenal (h)
By: Sam | May 20th, 2011
Fulham's last game of the season will see Arsenal at Craven Cottage. Arsenal, in their previous five away outings, have won just once. Fulham, in their last five home games however, have only lost once. That comparison bodes well for the Cottagers to finish off the season in the top 10.
Perhaps in 7th place, too. If neighbours Chelsea beat Everton tomorrow while Fulham possibly beat Arsenal, then we'll see Fulham finish in 7th place – the position they secured in the 2008/09 season and the highest position in the top flight history of the club.
In saying that, Fulham haven't beaten a team in the top 4 this season. It was close in February when Chelsea's David Luiz gave away a penalty in the final minutes with the game at 0-0. But, alas, Clint Dempsey, who won the penalty, couldn't convert.
Arsenal will likely line up with 4-2-3-1 and Fulham 4-4-2. A test for Fulham will be the battles in midfield. The prospect of Arsenal's Jack Wilshere-Aaron Ramsey meeting Danny Murphy-Steve Sidwell in the centre of midfield is something to look forward to as each pair are part of teams that enjoy holding possession and press for the ball when out of possession. Fulham may be more direct in the approach to win the ball back – which has resulted in 10 yellow cards over two games – and there is a the prediction that Arsenal stumble against more physical teams.
Just as interesting could be who plays left-midfield for Fulham. Simon Davies looks likely to start after returning to fitness after a slight injury. But you wonder if Jonathan Greening will be given another game. Greening made a handful of substitute appearances during this season and was on the fringes of first-team football. But against Birmingham last Sunday he was given a call-up to the first 11. He took the chance well and produced some silky skills and fine crosses – his first corner-kick superbly found Brede Hangeland who headed it in.
Hangeland scored from a (Jimmy Bullard) cross in Fulham's last victory over Arsenal in 2008. Since then Fulham have a poor record against Arsenal with occassional performances very tight – notably this season's 2-1 at the Emirates where it took two goals from the crafty Samir Nasri to get the three points for Arsenal. But since losing in the Carling Cup Final Arsenal have been in free-fall and the feeling is that this is the best moment to find a win against Arsenal and Fulham's last chance to get a win over a top 4 side this season.
http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2011/05/20/Preview-Fulham-v-Arsenal-Sun/gnid-95051/
Preview: Fulham v Arsenal (Sun)
by Setanta staff , 19 May 2011
Arsenal must win their final game of the season if they are to have any chance of automatic Champions League qualification.
The Gunners trail Manchester City by a single point in the battle to finish third.
Fulham's home record this season, however, has been consistent and good. They have won eight and only lost four at Craven Cottage, with three of those wins coming in their last five home games. They are also in good form coming into this game, having only lost three of their last eight.
Arsenal's overall away form this season has been fantastic. They boast the best away form for any team this season, picking up 30 out of a possible 54 points so far. However, they have only won one of their last five away games, and only two of their last eight games overall.
Fulham have close to a full squad for Sunday's clash, but Moussa Dembele has been ruled out for the Cottagers a knee irritation. The West Londoners have some good news though in the recovery of Simon Davies from a calf injury, who should be fit to start the game.
Northern Irish full back Chris Baird is still suspended and winger Damien Duff remains out with an Achilles problem.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will be looking to play as strong a team, as a win on Sunday could prevent the Gunners from having to feature in a preliminary Champions League round.
There will be late fitness tests for midfielders Samir Nasri (hamstring) and Abou Diaby (calf) as well as full-back Gael Clichy (hamstring) ahead of the game.
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): Schwarzer, Hangeland, Senderos, Hughes, Salcido, Etuhu, Davies, Murphy, Sidwell, Greening, Dempsey, Zamora, Johnson, Stockdale, Kelly, Gudjohnsen, Kakuta, Baird, Gera
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.fansfc.com/Fulham/story/32380/8.html
Konchesky primed for Fulham return
04:30 PM 20 May, 2011
Paul Konchesky is expected to return to Fulham Football Club this summer.
The former England international left Craven Cottage last year, when he followed Roy Hodgson from the Londoners to Liverpool for a fee of £3million.
However, the pair endured a miserable time on Merseyside, with the manager sacked in January and the fullback shortly afterwards loaned to Nottingham Forest.
Konchesky, who turned 30-years-old earlier this week, has no future at Anfield under boss Kenny Dalglish, who will look to move him on when the window reopens.
It is widely expected that the player will make the return move to Fulham, where Mark Hughes is looking for a replacement for the wantaway Carlos Salcido.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/13441010.stm
Fulham v Arsenal
Barclays Premier LeagueVenue: Craven CottageDate: Sunday, 22 MayKick-off: 1600 BSTCoverage: Watch highlights on Match of the Day; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and local radio; text commentary on BBC Sport website and mobiles
Live text and statsContent will update automatically
Sunday, 22 May 2011
Barclays Premier League
Home Team Score Away Team Time
Fulham v Arsenal 16:00
TEAM NEWS
Fulham's Moussa Dembele has been ruled out with a knee injury, but Simon Davies returns after missing the win over Birmingham.
Damien Duff is also injured and Chris Baird is suspended.
Arsenal are sweating on the fitness of a host of players, with Abou Diaby, Gael Clichy and Samir Nasri facing late fitness tests.
Johan Djourou, Laurent Koscielny and Tomas Rosicky are also doubts, but Cesc Fabregas is definitely out.
Fulham
Suspended: Baird (one match)
Injured: Dembele (knee), Duff (Achilles), Kamara (back)
Arsenal
Doubtful: Clichy & Nasri (both hamstring), Diaby (calf), Djourou (ankle), Koscielny & Rosicky (both thigh)
Injured: Bartley (knee), Eastmond (ankle), Fabianski (shoulder), Fabregas & Mannone (both thigh)
PREVIEW BY MOTD COMMENTATOR JOHN MOTSON
Arsenal's record of two wins in 12 matches tells you all you need to know about why they have slipped to fourth in the table.
Since the Carling Cup final defeat to Birmingham it has all unravelled for Arsene Wenger's side. It has been an unsettling period for the club and Wenger has come under fire for his lack of activity in the transfer market, as their weaknesses at centre back and in goal have been regularly exposed.
Unless the Gunners beat Fulham and Manchester City slip up away at Bolton, Wenger's side will be stuck in fourth. With that comes a tricky qualifying round to reach the group stage of next season's Champions League, where they could face sides of the calibre of Bayern Munich or Lyon.
Continue reading the main story
Since the Carling Cup final defeat to Birmingham it has all unravelled for Arsene Wenger's side
Fulham could find themselves in Europe next season as they are in line to qualify for the Europa League through the Respect Fair Play rankings.
One thing that has gone under the radar is that if the Cottagers beat Arsenal, and Everton lose to Chelsea, they will finish seventh on goal difference. This would equal their best-ever finish in top-flight history, set under Roy Hodgson two years ago.
Their season has had a remarkable turnaround, given that back at Christmas they briefly flirted with relegation and Mark Hughes's job was rumoured to be under threat. Hughes said things would be different when they got all their players back from injury, and he was right. The return of striker Bobby Zamora in particular gave everyone at the club such a massive lift.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
•The sides have met on 48 occasions. Arsenal have won 34 times, Fulham seven and there have been seven draws.
•All of Fulham's seven victories have come at Craven Cottage.
•They have beaten Arsenal just twice in 19 Premier League matches: 1-0 in 2008 and 2-1 in 2006.
•Fulham have scored just twice in their last six meetings with the Gunners.
•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.
Fulham
•Fulham have won five out of their last nine matches.
•Fulham have kept clean sheets in four of their previous seven games.
•The next goal Fulham let in will be their 500th conceded in the Premier League.
•They are also the only club without a red card in the division this season. The last club to go a whole season without a sending off was Liverpool in 2008-09.
•Andrew Johnson and Danny Murphy are two short of 50 Premier League goals.
•If Clint Dempsey scores he will equal Louis Saha's club record of 13 goals scored in one Premier League season.
•30% of Fulham's goals have come from headers, the highest proportion in the division.
Arsenal
•Arsene Wenger's side have won two of their last 10 league games (W2, D5, L3).
•They have won 19 league matches - only once in the last 13 seasons have the club failed to win 20 matches in a single season - in 2006-07.
•Samir Nasri's brace against Fulham in December took him to eight league goals (and 11 in all comps) for the season - he has scored just two in the league since (four in all comps).
•Robin van Persie has scored as many Premier League goals in 2011 as the entire Blackburn Rovers team.
•If 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.
LEADING GOALSCORERS
Fulham
Dempsey: 13 goals (12 league); Zamora: 6 goals (4 league)
Arsenal
Van Persie: 21 goals (17 league); Nasri: 15 goals (10 league)
MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Assistant referees: Jake Collin & Adam Watts
Fourth official: Michael Oliver
LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
Fulham (W2-0 v Birmingham, a): Schwarzer, Senderos, Hughes, Hangeland, Salcido, Greening, Murphy (Etuhu 71), Sidwell, Dempsey (Gera 89), Johnson, Zamora (Gudjohnsen 50). Subs not used: Stockdale, Kelly, Kakuta, Briggs.
Arsenal (L1-2 v Aston Villa, h): Szczesny, Sagna, Squillaci (Chamakh 46), Vermaelen, Gibbs, Song, Wilshere, Walcott, Ramsey, Arshavin (Bendtner 62), van Persie. Subs not used: Lehmann, Denilson, Eboue, Henderson, Miquel.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/may/20/carlos-salcido-fulham-burglary (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/may/20/carlos-salcido-fulham-burglary)
Carlos Salcido may leave Fulham after burglary drives out family
• Family returned home to Mexico after robbery at house
• Mark Hughes hopeful Salcido's situation can be resolved
Press Association
guardian.co.uk, Friday 20 May 2011 22.30 BST
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2011/5/20/1305917248411/Carlos-Salcido-has-impres-005.jpg)
Carlos Salcido has impressed with Fulham but his family has not settled in England. Photograph: Martin Godwin for the Guardian
The Fulham full-back Carlos Salcido could leave the club after a robbery at his house resulted in his family leaving England, Mark Hughes has revealed.
The Mexico international joined the Cottagers last summer from PSV Eindhoven and has impressed during his first season in the Premier League.
However, Hughes has warned that Salcido could leave Craven Cottage in the coming weeks after becoming unhappy with life in London following the incident at his house.
"His family came over initially but he had a robbery at his house," he said. "That was a bit upsetting for his family. They couldn't settle after that point [and moved back to Mexico].
"Carlos's situation is that his family has not been able to settle as of yet and he obviously has that to deal with.
"We are hopeful that the situation can be resolved and there can be a positive conclusion from our point of view in terms of Carlos being able to stay. If the situation is still prevalent, it may be that Carlos feels he needs to look at his options back home because he needs to be with his family.
"We understand that situation, it is difficult but obviously we have to protect our own position and he fully understands that. There is a lot of dialogue going on in terms of how we can resolve this but at the moment it is a little bit up in the air."
Quote from: White Noise on May 20, 2011, 09:03:13 PM
http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/patience-pays-off-for-cottagers-midfielder- (http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/patience-pays-off-for-cottagers-midfielder-)
Patience pays off for Cottagers midfielder
Fulham – Jonathan Greening has been biding his time
By Paul Bailey May 20, 2011
(http://www.givemefootball.com/GMF/files/c4/c4786c67-1528-4d15-9a9f-b591ea716c28.jpg)
Greening has been working hard all season. (©PAphotos)Picture GalleryNew
Fulham midfielder Jonathan Greening highlighted the depth of squad at manager Mark Hughes' disposal, after turning in an influential display last weekend.
Making only his fifth start of the campaign, Greening played a starring role in the Cottagers away trip to Birmingham City, helping them to a second successive away win after a convincing 2-0 victory at St Andrews.
"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," he said.
"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 is relishing being back in the first team fold, and is hoping his recent performance will give him a fighting chance of inclusion when Fulham take on Arsenal at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
"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 (Dembele) 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."
Nice tattoos you have there, Mr. Greening!
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/05/21/article-0-0C2EEBA600000578-692_964x1236.jpg)
http://www.themoderngooner.com/2011/05/preview-by-numbers-fulham-v-arsenal.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheModernGooner+%28The+Modern+Gooner%29 (http://www.themoderngooner.com/2011/05/preview-by-numbers-fulham-v-arsenal.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheModernGooner+%28The+Modern+Gooner%29)
Preview by Numbers: Fulham v. Arsenal
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/05/15/article-1387336-0C1467E100000578-486_634x393.jpg)
Szczesny: As pissed off as you and I. Photo: Daily Mail.
Craven Cottage, London
Sunday, May 22
11:00 a.m. EDT, 4:00 p.m. BST
Match Officials
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Assistants: Jake Collin and Adam Watts
4th Official: Michael Oliver
This Match, Last Year: Fulham 0 - 1 Arsenal
Reverse Fixture: Arsenal 2 - 1 Fulham
All-Time in All Competitions: 34 Arsenal wins, 7 Fulham wins, 7 draws
Arsenal's League Form: D-D-L-W-L-L
Fulham's League Form: L-D-W-W-L-W
Arsenal Squad News
Injured: Fabregas (thigh), Fabianski (shoulder)
Doubts: Clichy (hamstring), Nasri (hamstring), Koscielny (thigh), Djourou (ankle), Diaby (calf), Rosicky (thigh)
One more appearance from Jens in goal? Possible, but I
kind of doubt it. Don't tell him I said that, he may punch me
in the face. Photo: Daily Mail.
The squad news has not changed very much in the past week, meaning we may see the same XI that looked disinterested against Aston Villa last week. Wojciech Szczesny will likely start in goal, though there are many that may want to see Jens Lehmann make an appearance one more time. Robin van Persie will start up front. That is almost certain.
The rest of the squad has some question marks. On the back line, there are doubts about Gael Clichy, Laurent Koscielny, and Johan Djourou meaning we may see the same porous back four as last week: Kieran Gibbs, a rusty Thomas Vermaelen, Sebastien Squillaci, and Bacary Sagna.
Cesc Fabregas has been ruled out, so Aaron Ramsey should start again in his place. The midfield should also be filled with the usual suspects of Alex Song and Jack Wilshere. Theo Walcott will start on the right wing, and on the left, it's Samir Nasri if he passes fit and Andrei Arshavin if he does not.
Predicted squad: Szczesny, Sagna, Vermaelen, Squillaci, Gibbs, Song, Wilshere, Ramsey, Arshavin, Walcott, van Persie.
Fulham Squad News
Injured: Dembele (knee), Duff (Achilles), Kamara (back)
Suspended: Baird (second of two, abusive gesture)
Fulham have lost Moussa Dembele to a knee injury, in addition to the already out Diomansy Kamara (who scored at the Emirates in December, but was out on loan to Leicester this winter) and Damien Duff, who were out for the year already with back and Achilles injuries, respectively. Meanwhile, as Simon Davies returns from injury, Chris Baird misses out through suspension, having been retroactively banned after an obscene gesture towards referee Lee Mason during Fulham's recent loss to Liverpool.
Predicted squad: Schwarzer, Pantsil, Hangeland, Senderos, Salcido, Davies, Sidwell, Murphy, Gudjohnsen, Dempsey, A. Johnson.
Current Form
Arsenal's current form = Frowny face. Photo: Daily Mail.
Arsenal's downward spiral first cost them a shot at the league title this season and now, it appears it will cost them automatic qualification to the Champions League group stage next season. On the day of the Carling Cup Final, Arsenal had a six point lead on Manchester City (for second place) with a game in hand. Since then, Arsenal have won twice in 10 league matches and 12 across all competitions. They have now lost three of their last four. They have been passed in the table by both Manchester City and Chelsea (who were fifth in February.) Arsenal have 19 league wins this season. They have been held below 20 league wins only once in the last 13 years, in 2006/07. It might be a blessing that the free-fall has resulted in a tumble to fourth place, as now having to qualify for the Champions League brings about a bit of a tangible punishment for Arsenal's complacency of late, and may provide more of an impetus to sort things out this summer. One hopes.
I should point out that while Arsenal might be in the qualifying round with the likes of Bayern Munich and Lyon, because the drawings are seeded, the odds of Arsenal playing a top class side like that is practically nil.
As for Fulham, they have a chance to finish in 7th place, which would tie their highest ever Premier League finish from two years ago. The Cottagers have won three of their last four and have only lost three league matches since the start of February. All of Fulham's wins this season have come against sides currently below them in the table. They have gotten only four draws against the current top seven. Fulham could find themselves in the Europa League next season as a result of their Fair Play ranking.
Match Facts
In this fixture last year, Vito Mannone was kicking ass
and taking names. Photo: Guardian.
Arsenal won the reverse fixture 2-1 on December 4. Samir Nasri had a brace, scoring both goals on brilliant individual efforts; both are strong candidates for Arsenal's goal of the season. It took 75 minutes for Arsenal to break the 1-1 deadlock that was created at the half hour mark when Fulham scored easily after Squillaci and Koscielny horrendously collided with each other. At the time, Arsenal went top of the league. They have not been back to the summit since.
Arsenal took six points from Fulham last season and, like this year, played the Cottagers on the final day of the season. That match was a 4-0 win at the Emirates. Andrei Arshavin and Robin van Persie spotted Arsenal a 2-0 lead before the half hour mark, a Chris Baird own goal made it three by the half, and Carlos Vela's only goal of the year in the 84th sealed it. In this fixture last year, played in late September of 2009, Robin van Persie scored in the 52nd minute to edge Arsenal ahead in a tense 1-0 win, which saw goalkeeper Vito Mannone star as the man of the match.
All seven of Fulham's all-time wins against Arsenal have come at Craven Cottage. Their most recent win over Arsenal came in August of 2008, when Brede Hangeland scored a 21st minute winner after going unmarked by William Gallas on a corner in a 1-0 Fulham victory. That was Fulham's second win over Arsenal since 1966.
The Referee
The referee is West Yorkshire-based Martin Atkinson. Last week, Atkinson took charge of the FA Cup Final. Atkinson is tied for showing the most red cards (12) out of any referee in the top flight this season, while Fulham is the only team in the league that has not had a player sent off this year.
Arsenal have seen a lot of Atkinson this year and two of the six red cards they have received have been delivered by him. He has taken charge of Arsenal's 1-1 draw at Liverpool (in which Laurent Koscielny was sent off,) the 2-1 win over Birmingham City (in which Jack Wilshere was sent off,) the 2-0 Carling Cup win over Wigan, the 1-0 Carling Cup Semi-Final loss at Ipswich Town, and the 3-3 draw at Tottenham.
For Fulham, Atkinson has taken charge of a 1-0 loss at Chelsea, a 3-0 win over West Brom, and a 3-0 win at Sunderland.
Last week's referee, Michael Oliver, who was widely regarded as in over his head at the Emirates (for the second time this year,) is the fourth official.
Around the League
As is customary, all ten Premier League matches start simultaneously on the final day of the season, to prevent match fixing. These are the reverse fixtures of those played the weekend of December 4-6.
Arsenal will have to keep an eye on Manchester City, now that they have been pipped for third place in the league. City travel to the Reebok to take on a Bolton side that has won once in their last six across all competitions (you may recall that Bolton win, as it was against Arsenal.)
Charlie Adam runs away from the hug the referee wants
to give him. Photo: Daily Mail.
By far the most enthralling story line of the weekend is the battle to avoid relegation. With West Ham already assured last place, there are two tickets to the Championship left available and five sides desperately avoiding receiving them. Blackpool and Wigan sit in those two drop zone places right now; the former travels to Old Trafford to play a Manchester United side with nothing to play for, while Wigan travels to Stoke City.
Meanwhile, level with Blackpool and Wigan on points is Birmingham City, just one goal ahead of the Tangerines on the tie-breaker of goal difference. Birmingham is at Tottenham Hotspur, who will clinch a Europa League berth with a win, though they may not want it. Just one point ahead of the drop zone tie-break are Wolves and Blackburn, who play each other at Molineux.
The rest of the matches carry a lot less glamour: Aston Villa hosts Liverpool, Everton hosts Chelsea, Newcastle hosts West Brom, and West Ham hosts Sunderland.
Burglars are driving star out of Fulham
Published 23:00 20/05/11
By MirrorFootball
(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/incoming/article585699.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/Stoke-Fulham-Ricardo-Fuller-Carlos-Salcido-Carling-Cup-cropped)
Fulham full-back Carlos Salcido could leave the club after a robbery at his house resulted in his family leaving England, manager Mark Hughes has revealed.
The Mexico international joined the Cottagers last summer from Dutch outfit PSV Eindhoven and has impressed during his first season in the Barclays Premier League.
However, Hughes has warned Salcido could leave Craven Cottage in the coming weeks after becoming unhappy with life in London following the incident at his house.
"His family came over initially, but he had a robbery at his house," he said. "That was a bit upsetting for his family. They couldn't settle after that point [and moved back to Mexico].
"Carlos' situation is that his family has not been able to settle as of yet and he obviously has that to deal with.
"We are hopeful there can be a positive conclusion from our point of view in terms of Carlos being able to stay. If the situation is still prevalent it may be that Carlos feels he needs to look at his options back home, because he needs to be with his family.
"We understand that situation, it is difficult, but obviously we have to protect our own position and he fully understands that.
"There is a lot of dialogue going on in terms of how we can resolve this, but at the moment it is a little bit up in the air."
Salcido's departure from the west Londoners would leave a void at left-back, which has seen Liverpool's Paul Konchesky linked with a return to the club.
Hughes flatly denied a move for the 30-year-old was on the cards, although he was less clear in his response when asked about an interest in Espanyol left-back Javi Chica.
"We look at a number of games," he said after being spotted watching the Barcelona-based club. "We won't highlight key positions but we have to look at our options.
"Obviously we have been aware of Carlos' situation for quite some time and we have managed it as well as we could.
"In fairness, he has managed it very well given the circumstances, being away from his family for long periods. That is credit to him, but we might possibly have to look at other alternatives."
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-Carlos-Salcido-could-leave-the-club-after-a-burglary-resulted-in-his-family-leaving-England-it-has-been-revealed-article738662.html#ixzz1MyJMY4cU (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-Carlos-Salcido-could-leave-the-club-after-a-burglary-resulted-in-his-family-leaving-England-it-has-been-revealed-article738662.html#ixzz1MyJMY4cU)
http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/oddballs/863749-roberto-mancini-named-best-dressed-manager (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/oddballs/863749-roberto-mancini-named-best-dressed-manager)
Roberto Mancini named best dressed manager
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has picked up his second trophy of the season - the award for the Premier League's best dressed manager.
(http://img.metro.co.uk/i/pix/2011/05/19/article-1305793807487-0C1D86D900000578-114058_636x368.jpg)
Model Rhian Sugden presents Roberto Mancini with his Golden Scarf Award for the Best Dressed Premier League Manager
The Italian, who led City to FA Cup glory last weekend, was named the Premier League's best-dressed manager in the Golden Scarf Awards, which marks the launch of Lords of Football, a 3D football lifestyle game.
He was presented with his Golden Scarf by model Rhian Sugden, in an empty field somewhere.
Mancini – known for his negative on-field tactics – beat Carlo Ancelotti and Fulham boss Mark Hughes in the fan poll.
Meanwhile, in the Football Manager awards, Blackpool boss Ian Holloway has been named the most amusing and entertaining boss of the season, ahead of Tottenham's Harry Redknapp.
Fans of the management game also voted the spat between Liverpool chief Kenny Dalglish and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger this term's best tantrum.
Read more: http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/oddballs/863749-roberto-mancini-named-best-dressed-manager#ixzz1MyK7r8KT (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/oddballs/863749-roberto-mancini-named-best-dressed-manager#ixzz1MyK7r8KT)
One Day To Go
Saturday 21st May 2011
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Fans/fans2.jpg)
There is just one day to go until the Early Bird deadline for 2011/12 Season Tickets expires at midnight on Sunday 22nd May.
Season Tickets are currently available from just £329 for adults, £95 for juniors and FREE* for under 8s.
These amazing prices cannot last forever so make sure you act fast to ensure that you don't miss out on Barclays Premier League football at the Cottage next season.
Yesterday saw a number of new Season Ticket seats released which are selling quickly; you can check availability by logging into our online Season Ticket page|. You will also be able to find details of our flat rate Instalment Plan, designed to help you cover the cost of supporting your team.
Buy Today|
*Only available in A, AL, K, KL blocks and can only be booked at the time of purchase of a full price adult ticket. To book, call 0843 208 1234 (option 3). Not available online
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/ThreeDaysToGo.aspx#ixzz1MyMacV2A (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/May/ThreeDaysToGo.aspx#ixzz1MyMacV2A)
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/20052011/58/premier-league-matchpack-fulham-v-arsenal.html (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/20052011/58/premier-league-matchpack-fulham-v-arsenal.html)
Premier League - Matchpack: Fulham v Arsenal
Fri, 20 May 12:27:00 2011
Video preview, team news and facts and figures ahead of the Premier League clash between Fulham and Arsenal at Craven Cottage.
Team news
Moussa Dembele has been ruled out of Fulham's final Barclays Premier League game of the season against Arsenal.
The 23-year-old will miss the Craven Cottage clash with a knee irritation, although the west Londoners will be boosted by Simon Davies' return to action after a calf injury.
Northern Ireland full-back Chris Baird serves the second game of a two-match ban and Damien Duff is out with an Achilles injury.
Arsenal will hand late fitness tests to midfielders Samir Nasri (hamstring) and Abou Diaby (calf) as well as full-backGael Clichy (hamstring) ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage.
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.
Match facts
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.
PA Sport / Opta .
Quote from: White Noise on May 21, 2011, 09:04:16 AM
http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/oddballs/863749-roberto-mancini-named-best-dressed-manager (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/oddballs/863749-roberto-mancini-named-best-dressed-manager)
Roberto Mancini named best dressed manager
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has picked up his second trophy of the season - the award for the Premier League's best dressed manager.
(http://img.metro.co.uk/i/pix/2011/05/19/article-1305793807487-0C1D86D900000578-114058_636x368.jpg)
Model Rhian Sugden presents Roberto Mancini with his Golden Scarf Award for the Best Dressed Premier League Manager
The Italian, who led City to FA Cup glory last weekend, was named the Premier League's best-dressed manager in the Golden Scarf Awards, which marks the launch of Lords of Football, a 3D football lifestyle game.
He was presented with his Golden Scarf by model Rhian Sugden, in an empty field somewhere.
Mancini – known for his negative on-field tactics – beat Carlo Ancelotti and Fulham boss Mark Hughes in the fan poll.
Meanwhile, in the Football Manager awards, Blackpool boss Ian Holloway has been named the most amusing and entertaining boss of the season, ahead of Tottenham's Harry Redknapp.
Fans of the management game also voted the spat between Liverpool chief Kenny Dalglish and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger this term's best tantrum.
Read more: http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/oddballs/863749-roberto-mancini-named-best-dressed-manager#ixzz1MyK7r8KT (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/oddballs/863749-roberto-mancini-named-best-dressed-manager#ixzz1MyK7r8KT)
Who cares about that award! I'm looking at the beautiful bird standing next to him. :004:
http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/west-brom-sunderland-target-johnson-rejects-leeds-contract-offer-1644171 (http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/west-brom-sunderland-target-johnson-rejects-leeds-contract-offer-1644171)
West Brom, Sunderland target Johnson rejects Leeds contract offer
20.05.11 | tribalfootball.com
Leeds United winger Bradley Johnson is set to spark a Premier League transfer scramble.
The Daily Mail says Johnson has just turned down a three-year deal, which leaves him free to quit Elland Road.
The midfielder has been linked with Sunderland, Newcastle United, Fulham and Wigan Athletic.
However, West Bromwich Albion boss Roy Hodgson is regarded as favourite to land Johnson when his deal expires next month.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/sport/tireless-servant-schwarzer-eager-to-ride-on-to-brazil/story-fn63e0vj-1226059920835 (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/sport/tireless-servant-schwarzer-eager-to-ride-on-to-brazil/story-fn63e0vj-1226059920835)
Tireless servant Schwarzer eager to ride on to Brazil
Ray Gatt From: The Australian May 21, 2011 12:00AM
(http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2011/05/20/1226059/920079-premier-league-mark-schwarzer-fulham.jpg)
Fulham and Socceroos keeper Mark Schwarzer enters the fray against Birmingham City this week. Picture: Simon Dawson. Source: AP
IT says so much about Mark Schwarzer that on the verge of completing his 20th season as a professional, his 17th in Europe and his 14th in the English Premier League the Socceroo legend is still as hungry as ever.
Despite approaching his 39th birthday, having won a mountain of accolades and achieved nearly all there is in the sport, including recognition alongside Tim Cahill as the greatest player produced in Australian soccer history, Schwarzer is showing no signs of slowing down.
Certainly, if his interview with The Weekend Australian is any indication, the Fulham goalkeeper is nowhere near ready to pass the baton to the next generation, either at club or international level.
Schwarzer craves for more and made no secret of the fact he will play in the EPL as long as he can and that he has his sights set on playing for the Socceroos at the World Cup finals in Brazil in 2014, when he will be 41 and just four months short of his 42nd birthday.
If he makes it that far, and you wouldn't want to bet against him, he will eclipse Italian Dino Zoff as the oldest goalkeeper to play at the World Cup finals, though he will fall short of being the oldest of all time -- a record held by Cameroon striker Roger Milla, who was 42 years and 39 days when he played at the 1994 finals.
However, neither records nor age mean anything to Schwarzer, who maintains that job satisfaction, enjoyment and pride in his performances are the keys that continue to drive him as a footballer and person.
He does not tire, either, of the constant emphasis on his future and his advancing years and has learned to roll with the punches.
"It's inevitable that my age is brought up," said Schwarzer, who was on his way to a training session with Fulham when he spoke to The Weekend Australian. "The thing is, it seems more of an issue in Australia. It is not brought up over here. People look at the likes of (Manchester United goalkeeper) Edwin van der Sar and (Aston Villa's) Brad Friedel. They are both 40 and still at the top of their game. People respect that.
"If I had listened to some people in Australia I would have retired four years ago from the national team. It (retirement) is a very personal decision. Once you are retired, that's it. Playing is such an amazing experience and I want to make the most of it. I don't want any regrets later by asking myself 'Did I do the right thing or not'."
Still Schwarzer admits it is a fine line between playing on and retirement for any sportsman.
"It's in the back of the mind that you don't want to go on for too long. Potentially you can go too far and then have to cop the criticism that you should have retired earlier," he said. "Thankfully, I have confided in a lot of people over the last six to 12 months, especially my family and, more importantly, my wife (Paloma). Their advice and support has been overwhelming."
As for Brazil 2014, it is definitely in his thinking at this stage, though he is aware of the pitfalls.
"I am feeling great. Why not?" Schwarzer says. "I don't want to jinx myself and I am not naive because a lot of things can change very quickly between now and then, especially physically and form wise. I have learned to be a bit more cautious.
"But I would be lying if I said Brazil isn't part of my plans."
Schwarzer has been happy with the way the EPL season has panned out for him and Fulham, though the 5-2 loss to Liverpool several weeks ago where he made a howler, is still raw in the memory.
"Take out the Liverpool game and it has all been good," he says. "I don't remember ever playing as badly as I did that day against Liverpool. But those things happen. I have been lucky in that that is the first bad game I have had for Fulham and that's not bad going in three years."
On a club level, Fulham plays Arsenal at home and a win could take the Cottagers to seventh spot.
"If Everton lose then we could go to seventh and that will equal our highest ever result in the Premier League," Schwarzer said. Juggling football and family life is tough for a professional player, but Schwarzer says he is now over the bumps. He says he is getting huge enjoyment and pride watching his 11-year-old son Julian playing for Fulham's junior sides.
Schwarzer will leave the family behind when he returns for a hit and run visit to Australia to play in friendlies against New Zealand in Adelaide on June 5 and Serbia in Melbourne two days later.
Australia's most capped Socceroo says he wants to play in both games. In another sign of his determination to hold on to what he regards as very precious, Australia's most capped Socceroo is not thinking of giving another keeper a chance.
"Absolutely . . . my hand is up for both games," he said. "As far as I am concerned, you have to earn the right (to play for your country). I don't want to give anyone else an opportunity.
"Of course, if the manager (Holger Osieck) says otherwise, then that is his decision and I will go by that 100 per cent.
"But I definitely want to play both games."
