Martin Jol ready for Fulham's Europa League campaign
Fulham manager Martin Jol says he is happy with his players' fitness levels ahead of Thursday's Europa League qualifying tie.
Jol's side play Faroese club NSI Runavik at Craven Cottage on Thursday night in the first leg of qualifying.
The Dutchman says the club "can't complain" about playing in Europe because the competition is important to the club and believes he has the squad to cope with the 11-month season.
link for video...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/13966344.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/13966344.stm?)
Martin Jol happy with Europa participation
Fulham manager Martin Jol insists nobody is complaining about the Cottagers' early return to competitive football and even backed his charges to repeat the Europa League exploits of two years ago.
The former Tottenham boss began pre-season with his new troops last week in preparation for his first match at the helm against NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands in the Europa League first round tomorrow night.
Fulham have fond memories of the competition having defeated the likes of Shakhtar Donetsk, Hamburg and Juventus on the way to a final showdown with Atletico Madrid in the 2010.
The run surprised many but Jol believes the Cottagers could once again progress through the competition.
"I would imagine that there are quite a few teams that would like to be in Europe," he said.
"In Holland you play for Europe and I think it is the same in England.
"In the league you play for the support and yourself.
"You want to stay in the league firstly but secondly you want to finish in the first five or six spots. You want to be in Europe. That is the goal.
"Maybe that wasn't the goal for Fulham but because they are playing the way they did they did well in the Fair Play cup.
"If you can do that and if you're lucky enough you play in Europe so you can't complain.
"Two years ago they did unbelievably well, gave the club a good profile in Europe and the money was coming in as well."
Asked whether his side could repeat the exploits of 2010, he added: "You need a bit of luck but I remember Fulham playing against Shakhtar Donetsk and beating them.
"I can't remember Shakhtar losing a game at home so they certainly played a way that could be successful in Europe, so why not?"
Jol admitted that he would need a squad of more than 20 players to reach such heady heights again but refused to comment on the players he is looking to bring in.
The likes of Tottenham duo David Bentley and Jermaine Jenas have been linked with a move to west London, while West Ham striker Carlton Cole has also been mentioned as a target.
"I will never name names because in this business there are always other clubs watching you," he said.
"We will do that privately. I have seen eight or nine names linked with us and that was not true.
"Of course you know there are a few players without a contract now, like [Zoltan] Gera for example.
"We need a couple of additions but I won't bring players here for the sake of it because we still have young players as well.
"I have to give them a chance to play, to be happy and to develop themselves.
"I think there will be two or three players coming into my squad and I will give them a chance in the next couple of weeks to prove themselves."
Lauri Dalla Valle and Kerim Frei are two such players that could be handed debuts against NSI Runavik with the likes of Moussa Dembele, Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey unavailable.
More than 12,000 tickets have already been sold for the tie and Jol is confident of success despite missing some of his key players.
"We have got a few youngsters in the squad so of course there are four or five players not here, they are on holiday so it is a nice opportunity for these youngsters to show and prove themselves," he added.
"I can't imagine going out in the first round but it is football so you never know.
"You could say that it is 90% sure that we go through but you still have to do the business and our players know that."
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/martin-jol-happy-with-europa-participation-2304373.html? (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/martin-jol-happy-with-europa-participation-2304373.html?)
Fulham v Nes Soknar Itrottarfelag
Europa League
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Thursday, 30 June Kick-off: 1930 BST Coverage: Live scores and report on BBC website
Fulham kick off their new campaign against NSI Runavik in the first leg of their Europa League qualification first-round tie on Thursday.
Having returned to pre-season training last week, just a month since the end of last season, Fulham face the Faroe Islands part-timers at Craven Cottage.
Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey are unavailable as they featured in the recent Concacaf Gold Cup in California.
The match represents Martin Jol's first in charge of the Londoners.
And the Dutchman, who was appointed as Mark Hughes's successor at the start of the month, insists nobody in the squad is complaining about the Cottagers' early return to competitive football - tipping his new charges to repeat their Europa League exploits of two years ago.
Fulham have fond memories of the competition, having defeated the likes of Shakhtar Donetsk, Hamburg and Juventus on the way to a final showdown with Atletico Madrid in the 2010, which they eventually lost.
Jol believes Fulham can enjoy a similar run this time around, having qualified for the competition through last season's Fair Play League.
"I would imagine that there are quite a few teams that would like to be in Europe," said Jol.
"You want to be in Europe. That is the goal. Maybe that wasn't the goal for Fulham but because they are playing the way they did, they did well in the Fair Play cup.
"If you can do that and if you're lucky enough you play in Europe so you can't complain.
"Two years ago they did unbelievably well, gave the club a good profile in Europe and the money was coming in as well.
"You need a bit of luck [to repeat that] but I remember Fulham playing against Shakhtar Donetsk and beating them. I can't remember Shakhtar losing a game at home so they certainly played a way that could be successful in Europe, so why not?"
Lauri Dalla Valle and Kerim Frei are two young players that could be handed debuts against NSI Runavik as a result of the absences of Salcido and Dempsey, but Jol is confident of victory.
"We have got a few youngsters in the squad because of course there are four or five players not here," said Jol. "It is a nice opportunity for these youngsters to show and prove themselves.
"I can't imagine going out in the first round but it is football so you never know.
"You could say that it is 90% sure that we go through but you still have to do the business and our players know that."
More than 12,000 tickets have already been sold for the tie.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/13959909.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/13959909.stm?)
DAVIES EXPECTS COTTAGERS TO ATTACK
Fulham midfielder Simon Davies believes the Cottagers have an exciting season ahead under new manager Martin Jol.
The former Tottenham boss was appointed as Mark Hughes' replacement at Craven Cottage earlier this month on a two-year deal.
Jol's first match at the helm comes on Thursday in a Europa League qualification first round tie with NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands.
The players returned to training last week and Davies has already been impressed by the new man in charge.
"He's a manager that very much promotes an attacking outlook," he told the club's official website, www.fulhamfc.com (http://www.fulhamfc.com).
"He likes his teams to be expansive and to get down the flanks. We'll get forward, attack and create lots of chances and that's the big thing for me.
"If we can get things right then it could be an exciting season ahead. One thing is for sure, we'll certainly be good to watch.
"He's a football man and one that has a great knowledge of the game. He's been in the game for a while now so he comes in with plenty of experience.
"He did very well in his last spell in the Premier League when he was at Tottenham, so he knows what to expect in terms of the league.
"He also did well at Hamburg and Ajax, so he has experience of European football too.
"He gets very involved in the training sessions and likes to instil confidence in his players. He has a philosophy that we can all relate to and hopefully we'll see the benefits of that."
Davies may well play a part on Thursday, although Clint Dempsey and Carlos Salcido are unavailable.
Both players featured in the CONCACAF Gold Cup for the United States and Mexico respectively, with the latter defeating the former 4-2 in the final.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/fulham/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/06/28/SOCCER_Fulham.html (http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/fulham/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/06/28/SOCCER_Fulham.html)
Jol hopes for additions
Cottagers boss won't name names
Fulham manager Martin Jol expects to make a couple of additions to his squad before the end of the transfer window.
The Cottagers boss recently took the reins in West London from Mark Hughes but has been inactive in the market so far.
Tottenham duo David Bentley and Jermaine Jenas have been linked with a move to the club, while West Ham striker Carlton Cole has also been mentioned as a target.
However, the Dutch coach would not reveal who he is interested in, preferring to do business in private.
"I will never name names because in this business there are always other clubs watching you," he said.
Not true
"We will do that privately. I have seen eight or nine names linked with us and that was not true.
"Of course you know there are a few players without a contract now, like [Zoltan] Gera for example.
"We need a couple of additions but I won't bring players here for the sake of it because we still have young players as well.
"I have to give them a chance to play, to be happy and to develop themselves.
"I think there will be two or three players coming into my squad and I will give them a chance in the next couple of weeks to prove themselves."
Fulham take on Faroe Islands outfit NSI Runavik in the Europa League on Thursday night, with the likes of Moussa Dembele, Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey unavailable.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_7010411,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_7010411,00.html?)
Fulham Home Shirt for 2011-12 Season: Leaked Photo
(http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/fulham-home-shirt1.jpg)
A photo has been leaked on the Internet that reveals the design of Fulham's home shirt for the 2011-12 Premier League season.
The above photo shows two pages from the Fulham magazine, where the design of the new Fulham shirt is featured. Designed and manufactured by Kappa, the shirt features a black trim which goes down the side of the shirt and shorts as well as the Kappa logos in black on the shoulders in addition to the Kappa name on the chest.
Overall, I give the design a thumbs up. I'd like to see it in person before making a final decision though. The one design feature I'm not sure about is how the black trim on the side of the shirt comes in below the sponsor name which draws more attention to the sponsor name (which is already obnoxious in its big bold letters and red color).
What do you think of the new design? Share your opinion in the comments section below. And don't forget, for the largest selection of Premier League shirts for all 20 clubs, visit the EPL Talk Shop.
Thanks to EPL Talk reader Jason Gatties for the news tip.
http://www.epltalk.com/fulham-home-shirt-for-2011-12-season-leaked-photo-32723?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EPLTalk+%28EPL+Talk%29 (http://www.epltalk.com/fulham-home-shirt-for-2011-12-season-leaked-photo-32723?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EPLTalk+%28EPL+Talk%29)
Weekly Accumulator – Fulham and eight other winners
Odds of 33/1 are available on these nine Europa League sides prevailing
(http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/simondaviesmultiplelarge.jpg)
Fulham are one of 50 teams across the continent forced to start their season as early as June to play for the honour of qualifying for the Europa League. To save you treading into the minefield, we've picked nine clubs likely to triumph.
By combining them in a nine-fold accumulator on Ladbrokes, you can receive odds of 33/1 – not bad given that the longest price of any side that we are backing is 11/8 – presenting the chance to turn £1 into £33 or, if you're bolder, £10 into £330.
Bankers
Fulham to beat Runavik @ 1/100
NK Varazdin to beat Lusitanos @ 1/16
Ferencvaros to beat Ulisses @ 1/7
Dinamo Tbilisi to beat Milsami @ 1/5
Renova to beat Glentoran @ 4/11
Tight calls
Karabakh to win at Banga @ 4/6
Rabotnicki to win at Trans Narva @ 4/5
FC Minsk to win at AZAL Baku @ 11/8
Olimpi to win at Banants @ 11/8
Each of the away selections have been carefully chosen as there is a clear reason to fancy them to win, while the majority of the so-called bankers have been included either due to the hosts having European pedigree or visitors lacking in that department.
It's the bottom four that are worth focussing on the justifications for given the longer prices, with our decision to favour Azerbaijani side Karabakh over Lithuanians Banga influenced by the former's run through three qualifying rounds last term.
Rabotnicki meanwhile weren't embarrassed by Liverpool last year and are up against an Estonian side in Trans Narva that have lost seven straight games in the competition, scoring only once in that time.
There are strong statistics supporting the above-evens picks too. AZAL Baku ended last season on a streak of one victory in eight and face an FC Minsk team adept on their travels, while Olimpi's opponents Banants have lost six of their last seven in the Europa League to nil.
http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/europa-league/the-weekly-accumulator- (http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/europa-league/the-weekly-accumulator-)–-fulham-and-eight-other-winners_067878.html
Martin Jol sees no reason why Fulham cannot repeat their 2010 Europa League heroics
The Dutchman presides over his first competitive game in charge in a qualifying match against NSI Runavki, and feels his side can shock the continent once again
Fulham manager Martin Jol has expressed his excitement about the Cottagers' return to Europa League action and has backed his club to impress the world and repeat the success of only two years ago.
The Londoners began their pre-season training much earlier than many clubs in preparation for their first Europa League qualifying match against NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands.
The Cottagers reached the final of the competition in 2010 after defeating the likes of Hamburg and Juventus before being beaten by Atletico Madrid in the final, and fans will be hoping for similar showings this season.
Jol believes plenty of sides must envy Fulham's position despite having such an early start to their season.
"I would imagine that there are quite a few teams that would like to be in Europe. In Holland you play for Europe and I think it is the same in England," he told reporters.
"You want to stay in the league firstly but secondly you want to finish in the first five or six spots. You want to be in Europe. That is the goal."
Discussing the team's performances in 2010, Jol stated: "Two years ago they did unbelievably well, gave the club a good profile in Europe and the money was coming in as well."
Asked whether his side could repeat the exploits of 2010, he added: "You need a bit of luck but I remember Fulham playing against Shakhtar Donetsk and beating them.
"I can't remember Shakhtar losing a game at home so they certainly played a way that could be successful in Europe, so why not?"
However, the Fulham manager admitted that the club would have to add players if are to be competitive in Europe, but Jol refused to name any of his targets, with the likes of David Bentley linked in recent weeks, and said he will not burden his squad with too many signings in case they block the path of youngsters coming through the ranks.
"We will do that privately," he said. "I have seen eight or nine names linked with us and that was not true. We need a couple of additions but I won't bring players here for the sake of it because we still have young players as well.
"I have to give them a chance to play, to be happy and to develop themselves.
"I think there will be two or three players coming into my squad and I will give them a chance in the next couple of weeks to prove themselves."
More than 12,000 tickets have already been sold for the Europa League tie and the Cottagers boss is confident of success despite missing Clint Dempsey, Moussa Dembele and Carlos Salcido.
"I can't imagine going out in the first round but it is football so you never know," he added.
"You could say that it is 90 per cent sure that we go through but you still have to do the business and our players know that."
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2915/europa-league/2011/06/29/2553459/martin-jol-sees-no-reason-why-fulham-cannot-repeat-their? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2915/europa-league/2011/06/29/2553459/martin-jol-sees-no-reason-why-fulham-cannot-repeat-their?)
Preview: Fulham v NSI Runavik (Thurs)
(http://www.setanta.com/Global/Images/sport/football/2010-2011/Premier%20League/Fulham/FULHAM_home_shirt2010_11.jpg)
It may not even be July yet, but Fulham's 2011/12 season gets underway on Thursday when they host NSI Runavik at Craven Cottage.
The part-timers from the Faroe Islands visit London for the first leg of their Europa League qualification first-round tie, with the Cottagers – in Europe through the fair play system - having good memories of starting seasons early with European action. They went all the way to the final when they did so two seasons ago.
The game also gives observers an early look at how new Cottagers boss Martin Jol has bedded in after returning to England, though the former Tottenham manager will not have his side at full-strength for the meeting with the minnows of one of Europe's footballing backwaters.
The Dutchman is without team talisman Clint Dempsey and full back Carlos Salcido after their recent respective participations for USA and Mexico at the Concacaf Gold Cup.
Moussa Dembele is also missing, so youngsters such as Kerim Frei and former Liverpool man Lauri Dalla Valle may get an early chance to show their new boss their potential, with the Premier League side at extremely short odds to progress beyond a side from a town of less than 4,000 people.
More senior men such as Brede Hangeland, Simon Davies and Bobby Zamora may well feature, however.
The part-timers are captain by striker Christian Hogni Jacobsen, who is very prolific in his own league but will be facing a big step up against Jol's new men.
On getting competitive action underway so early, Jol is not bothered, having said: "I would imagine that there are quite a few teams that would like to be in Europe.
"You want to be in Europe. That is the goal. Maybe that wasn't the goal for Fulham but because they are playing the way they did, they did well in the fair play cup.
"If you can do that and if you're lucky enough you play in Europe so you can't complain.
"Two years ago they did unbelievably well, gave the club a good profile in Europe and the money was coming in as well.
"You need a bit of luck but I remember Fulham playing against Shakhtar Donetsk and beating them. I can't remember Shakhtar losing a game at home so they certainly played a way that could be successful in Europe, so why not?"
http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2011/06/29/Fulham-preview/gnid-98607/? (http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2011/06/29/Fulham-preview/gnid-98607/?)
Analysis: Clinical finishing and defensive tenacity have been the secrets of Fulham's success
At the start of their season, way back in July, few would have expected that Fulham would be England's most successful team in Europe in 2009/10. However, under the auspices of Roy Hodgson the Cottagers have completed a gruelling 18-match marathon to reach Wednesday's Europa League final.
Though some of their matches have been the most exciting in England this season, coming from behind to beat both Juventus and Hamburg in the last two rounds, Fulham have actually been one of the least attacking sides in the Europa League this season:
Europa League 2009/10: Fewest Shots Per Game
Rank Team Games Played Total Shots Shots Per Game
1 Unirea Urziceni 2 12 6.00
2 Levski Sofia 6 42 7.00
3 Fulham 14 108 7.71
4 Everton 8 62 7.75
5 FC Twente 8 62 7.75
6 Toulouse 6 47 7.83
Only two sides, Unirea and Levski Sofia, have averaged fewer shots per game in the Europa League this season. However, what the Cottagers have lacked in quantity, they have more than made up for in quality of efforts, managing the third-highest shot conversion rate in 2009/10:
Europa League 2009/10: Highest Goals To Shots Ratio
Rank Team Games Played Goals To Shots Ratio
1 Marseille 4 24.24%
2 RSC Anderlecht 10 21.35%
3 Galatasaray 8 20.59%
4 Liverpool 8 19.44%
5 Fulham 14 19.44%
6 Hapoel Tel Aviv 8 19.40%
Fulham have had the fifth-highest goals-to-shots ratio in the Europa League this season, 19.44%, well above the competition average of 12.98%, and are almost twice as effective in front of goal as Wednesday's opponents Atletico, who have a ratio of 10.23%.
If Roy Hodgson's men have not been the most attacking team in Europe this season, they have more than made it up with their defensive displays. The Cottagers have made over 100 more clearances (442) than any other Europa League side this season, have blocked the most shots (53), have made the most interceptions (285) and have made the second-most tackles (295).
Though they have admittedly played more games than most teams in the competition, this does perhaps show that Roy Hodgson has taught his players how to break up opposition attacks effectively, especially given that they have found themselves on occasions under more pressure than some other sides.
http://www.itv.com/sport/football/news/uefacup/manualstories/clinicalfinishinganddefensivetenacityhavebeenfulhamsroutetothefinal2745/default.html? (http://www.itv.com/sport/football/news/uefacup/manualstories/clinicalfinishinganddefensivetenacityhavebeenfulhamsroutetothefinal2745/default.html?)
Jol plays down move for Ajax striker
MARTIN Jol has ruled out a move for Ajax striker Mounir El Hamdaoui.
The Fulham boss has been heavily linked with a swoop for the Moroccan, who played under him at Spurs and in Holland, and has been told he can leave the Dutch giants.
But Jol insists he's happy with the strikers he already has at Craven Cottage.
He said: "I've got, for example, Bobby Zamora, who, if he played for another team, you would be interested in him as a No.9. I've got Andy Johnson, I've got [Clint] Dempsey playing on the left, but he can play in the spine as well.
"I've got [Moussa] Dembele, so I've got four players there in these two positions. And there isn't any club coming in for our players, so I'm very happy with them.
"Mounir is a very good player, one of the best finishers I've seen, but as the situation is now, I've got four strikers."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/29/jol-plays-down-move-for-ajax-striker-64767-28966092/?#ixzz1Qjuqr4Vl (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/29/jol-plays-down-move-for-ajax-striker-64767-28966092/?#ixzz1Qjuqr4Vl)
Fulham keeper David Stockdale set for loan switch
FULHAM boss Martin Jol has opened talks with David Stockdale about sending the young keeper out on loan.
With Mark Schwarzer confirmed as the club's number one for the forthcoming campaign, England international Stockdale's chances of first-team football at Craven Cottage look slim.
So Jol looks set to make Stockdale available for a loan and bring in a number two as his replacement.
He said: "Mark Schwarzer is a great goalkeeper, one of the best I've seen,the number one.
"The only situation with [David] Stockdale is that he's a very young goalkeeper and he did ever so well when he came in last year.
"So, the only discussion we've got with the player is should he play, should he go on loan somewhere, or do you want to keep him as a number two.
"If you make a decision to put him on loan then you need another goalkeeper, a number two.
"I won't sell him, we'll never sell him, because I think his future is bright.
"But the only thing is, if you make the decision to play him every week, we need a club which will promise me he will play every week."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/29/fulham-keeper-david-stockdale-set-for-loan-switch-82029-28965962/?#ixzz1Qjv6OwQK (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/29/fulham-keeper-david-stockdale-set-for-loan-switch-82029-28965962/?#ixzz1Qjv6OwQK)
Fulham boss not interested in Spurs flop Bentley
MARTIN Jol has rubbished rumours linking Fulham with a move for David Bentley.
The Spurs misfit has been touted with a switch to Craven Cottage this summer, while Atletico Madrid are also reported to be keen on the 26-year-old.
But Jol insists the wideboy isn't on his radar.
He said: "There have been various players been linked with us that's not true, and him [Bentley] as well."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/29/fulham-boss-not-interested-in-spurs-flop-bentley-82029-28965900/?#ixzz1QjvLBIxv (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/29/fulham-boss-not-interested-in-spurs-flop-bentley-82029-28965900/?#ixzz1QjvLBIxv)
Hans Segers handed Fulham role
MARTIN Jol has appointed Hans Segers as Fulham's new goalkeeping coach.
The Dutchman has turned to the former Wimbledon keeper – who was part of his backroom staff during his time in charge of Spurs – as a replacement for Kevin Hitchcock.
Boss Jol said: "He comes from PSV Eindhoven, I worked with him in my time at Spurs so I know him very well."
Meanwhile, Ray Lewington has been promoted to one of Jol's assistants.
The 54-year-old had been working with the club's youth system but has been handed a more senior role by the new boss in SW6.
"We started off with Ray Lewington because he's probably a main figure here, at this club, he knows everything," added Jol.
"He was here when Roy [Hodgson] was here and working here for the academy when Mark [Hughes] was here, so I think he's a key figure here."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/29/hans-segers-handed-fulham-role-82029-28965851/?#ixzz1QjveZuBf (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/29/hans-segers-handed-fulham-role-82029-28965851/?#ixzz1QjveZuBf)
Not taking this lying down
In 1903 1904 White shirts Black shorts
In 1904 1905 White shirts Black shorts
In 1905 1906 White shirts Black shorts
In 1906 1907 White shirts Black shorts
In 1907 1908 White shirts Black shorts
In 1908 1909 White shirts Black shorts
In 1909 1910 White shirts Black shorts
In 1910 1911 White shirts Black shorts
In 1911 1912 White shirts Black shorts
In 1912 1913 White shirts Black shorts
In 1913 1914 White shirts Black shorts
In 1914 1915 White shirts Black shorts
In 1919 1920 White shirts Black shorts
In 1920 1921 White shirts Black shorts
In 1921 1922 White shirts Black shorts
In 1922 1923 White shirts Black shorts
In 1923 1924 White shirts Black shorts
In 1924 1925 White shirts Black shorts
In 1925 1926 White shirts Black shorts
In 1926 1927 White shirts Black shorts
In 1927 1928 White shirts Black shorts
In 1928 1929 White shirts Black shorts
In 1929 1930 White shirts Black shorts
In 1930 1931 White shirts Black shorts
In 1931 1932 White shirts Black shorts
In 1932 1933 White shirts Black shorts
In 1933 1934 White shirts Black shorts
In 1934 1935 White shirts Black shorts
In 1935 1936 White shirts Black shorts
In 1936 1937 White shirts Black shorts
In 1937 1938 White shirts Black shorts
In 1938 1939 White shirts Black shorts
In 1946 1947 White shirts Black shorts
In 1947 1948 White shirts Black shorts
In 1948 1949 White shirts Black shorts
In 1949 1950 White shirts Black shorts
In 1950 1951 White shirts Black shorts
In 1951 1952 White shirts Black shorts
In 1952 1953 White shirts Black shorts
In 1953 1954 White shirts Black shorts
In 1954 1955 White shirts Black shorts
In 1955 1956 White shirts Black shorts
In 1956 1957 White shirts Black shorts
In 1957 1958 White shirts Black shorts
In 1958 1959 White shirts Black shorts
In 1959 1960 White shirts Black shorts
In 1960 1961 White shirts Black shorts
In 1961 1962 White shirts Black shorts
In 1962 1963 White shirts Black shorts
In 1963 1964 White shirts Black shorts
In 1964 1965 White shirts Black shorts
In 1965 1966 White shirts Black shorts
In 1966 1967 White shirts Black shorts
In 1967 1968 White shirts Black shorts
In 1968 1969 White shirts Black shorts
In 1969 1970 White shirts Black shorts
In 1970 1971 White shirts Black shorts
In 1971 1972 White shirts Black shorts
In 1972 1973 White shirts Black shorts
In 1973 1974 White shirts Black shorts
In 1974 1975 White shirts Black shorts
In 1975 1976 White shirts Black shorts
In 1976 1977 White shirts Black shorts
In 1977 1978 White shirts Black shorts
In 1978 1979 White shirts Black shorts
In 1979 1980 White shirts Black shorts
In 1980 1981 White shirts Black shorts
In 1981 1982 White shirts Black shorts
In 1982 1983 White shirts Black shorts
In 1983 1984 White shirts Black shorts
In 1984 1985 White shirts Black shorts
In 1985 1986 White shirts Black shorts
In 1986 1987 White shirts Black shorts
In 1987 1988 White shirts Black shorts
In 1988 1989 White shirts Black shorts
In 1989 1990 White shirts Black shorts
In 1990 1991 White shirts Black shorts
In 1991 1992 White shirts Black shorts
In 1992 1993 White shirts Black shorts
In 1993 1994 White shirts Black shorts
In 1994 1995 White shirts Black shorts
In 1995 1996 White shirts Black shorts
In 1996 1997 White shirts Black shorts
In 1997 1998 White shirts Black shorts
In 1998 1999 White shirts Black shorts
In 1999 2000 White shirts Black shorts
In 2000 2001 White shirts Black shorts
In 2001 2002 White shirts Black shorts
In 2002 2003 White shirts Black shorts
In 2003 2004 White shirts Black shorts
In 2004 2005 White shirts Black shorts
In 2005 2006 White shirts Black shorts
In 2006 2007 White shirts Black shorts
In 2007 2008 White shirts Black shorts
In 2008 2009 White shirts Black shorts
In 2009 2010 White shirts Black shorts
In 2010 2011 White shirts Black shorts
In 2011 2012 White shirts White shorts
Ridiculous.
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/not-taking-this-lying-down/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/not-taking-this-lying-down/?)
Jol says Stockdale is not for sale as Segers joins Fulham as goalkeeping coach
Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale, 25, will be offered the chance to go out on loan despite his recent international call-ups for England.
He is behind Mark Schwarzer in the club pecking order and is likely to be on the bench tonight as Fulham play the home leg of their Europa League qualifier against NSI Runavik from the Faroe Islands.
Manager Martin Jol said: 'We'll never sell him because I think his future is bright, but we need a club which will promise me he will play every week.'
Meanwhile, Jol has linked up with Hans Segers again after appointing him the club's goalkeeping coach.
The recently-appointed Dutchman has brought in fellow countryman Segers to fill the role vacated by Kevin Hitchcock.
Segers worked with Jol at Tottenham, while Ray Lewington has been promoted from a youth coaching role to one of Jol's assistant.
'[Hans] comes from PSV Eindhoven, I worked with him in my time at Spurs so I know him very well,' he said.
'We started off with Ray Lewington because he's probably a main figure here, at this club, he knows everything.
'He was here when Roy [Hodgson] was here and working here for the academy when Mark [Hughes] was here, so I think he's a key figure here.'
Jol had already previously drafted in brother Cornelis Jol and Michael Lindeman to the management set-up at Craven Cottage.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2009622/Fulham-boss-Martin-Jol-says-David-Stockdale-sale-look-loan-deal.html#ixzz1QjwGKCGH (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2009622/Fulham-boss-Martin-Jol-says-David-Stockdale-sale-look-loan-deal.html#ixzz1QjwGKCGH)
Lewington's demotion should have told us what was coming
When a man considers himself too reputable, too deluxe and, ultimately, too valuable for the institution for whom he works, he should leave instantaneously. Little did we know, as inattentive, unenlightened fans, that Mark Hughes thought of himself as highly as the descriptives offered above from the second he walked into the Craven Cottage doors.
That the Welshman demanded a bigger office and an elaborate new desk upon which to place his pencil sharpeners are all irrelevancies compared to his shameful demotion of a stalwart in recent Fulham history; Ray Lewington. After settling in and employing his steadfast sidekicks, Mark Hughes set about systematically lowering the status of a man so genuine and so knowledgeable of all things Fulham, that were it not for the new desk, he could be considered part of the proverbial furniture.
It took a good man to reinstate Ray Lewington, and the good man of course came in the form of Martin Jol, who has today confirmed Lewington as one of his new assistants for the coming season. The Dutchman hailed Lewington as a "main figure at the club" who "knows everything." Spot on.
The return of some solid foundations and some traditional decency to the dugout of Fulham, in the shape of both Lewington and Jol, doesn't detract from the discrepancies and the shameful acts of our previous manager, however. Results may have flowed and even away victories may have been savoured, but Mark Hughes' reign was one that should never have been, and in terms of his compassion and genuine affiliation for the club, we should hastily forget his dictatorship as 'another top ten finish.' In the grand scheme of things, that's all it was.
New desk and improved office aside, Mark Hughes always felt he was a better man than what he had become at Fulham. His genuinely brutal Manchester City departure scarred him deeply and it's made way for a personality trait that has seemingly increased his ego no-end. In a bid to prove the City owners wrong, Hughes will never settle for second best, and at the sheer mention of a 'bigger club', he walked out and never looked back. Did it not hit him, though, that he was the fall back option to Fulham, rather than vice-versa?
Clearly not, as his actions prove. The year was all he needed to re-invent himself as the self-confessed master of the Premier League and once that ambition was complete, the next step must be forthcoming. As of yet, though, his next step hasn't materialised, much to the enjoyment of all those who oversaw his rather hypocritical walk-out.
On the rather blissful contrary, however, Fulham have now employed someone they were authentically chasing. SW6 now, gratefully, hosts a manager who is not only first choice, but is graceful and harmonious. There will be no extensions to Jol's office and there'll be no needless sackings. Instead, the former Ajax boss will combine a dampened ruthlessness with the necessary man-management skills that, reportedly, Hughes never had. Communications under the Welshman were made almost as if in MI5, with middle-men doing most of the work. Mr Hughes was far from hands-on.
And, while our former boss continues to spit diatribe at his former employers in Manchester, many have overlooked that such a fate was bestowed upon Jol at Tottenham Hotspur, perhaps even more savagely. Does Jol deem it necessary to avenge his mistreatment, or even heavily criticise those that did him wrong? Of course he doesn't. He's a gentleman. Just as any Fulham manager should be.
That's why Martin Jol, without even overseeing a match as of yet, is a better manager of Fulham FC than Mark Hughes has ever been.
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/6/29/2251139/lewingtons-demotion-should-have-told-us-what-was-coming? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/6/29/2251139/lewingtons-demotion-should-have-told-us-what-was-coming?)
MARTIN JOL'S EURO DRIVE STALLS
MARTIN JOL had a nightmare when his car got towed away while trying to get Fulham's Europa League show on the road.
Martin Jol only started at Craven Cottage last week and feared losing passports and cash near his hotel in Wimbledon.
"All the stuff was in it," Jol said. "Everything, passports. And in Holland they would probably put it in a private parking station with security. There were five cars towed. They tow them away when they play tennis at Wimbledon."
Jol blamed Hans Segers for the whole incident after telling him where to park. Former Wimbledon keeper Segers has been appointed as goalkeeping coach and Ray Lewington will be Jol's assistant.
They have been getting players ready for tonight's qualifier against NSI Runavik from the Faroe Islands.
Jol has a full squad available apart from Moussa Dembele, who is struggling with an ankle injury. He confirmed Mark Schwarzer will be his No. 1 keeper this term.
FULHAM (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Briggs; Davies, Murphy, Sidwell, Duff; Frei, Dalla Valle.
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/198563/Martin-Jol-s-Euro-drive-stalls/? (http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/198563/Martin-Jol-s-Euro-drive-stalls/?)
MARTIN JOL'S FIRST FULHAM GAME
FULHAM boss Martin Jol takes charge for the first time tonight at home against Faroe Islands minnows NSI Runavik in the Europa League first-round qualifier.
http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/255887/Martin-Jol-s-first-Fulham-game? (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/255887/Martin-Jol-s-first-Fulham-game?)
Fulham selling Michael Jackson products to go with their odd statue
(http://l.yimg.com/a/p/sp/editorial_image/51/51b4c05af775161b24458d4e9825ea6f/fulham_selling_michael_jackson_products_to_go_with_their_odd_statue.jpg)
When Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed put a tacky statue of Michael Jackson outside of Craven Cottage and told anyone who didn't like it that they can "go to hell," the consensus seemed to be that it's his club and his money so he can do what he wants. Though it was certainly strange, at the time, Al Fayed's intentions behind the tribute to his friend seemed positive and (relatively) selfless. Now? Not so much.
And with that said, I present the "Michael at the Cottage tribute collection" now available in the official Fulham clubshop. Let's take a closer look at some of the ways Al Fayed is profiting from his old pal's death...
(http://l.yimg.com/a/p/sp/editorial_image/55/55cecfbba890931d336b1e79b0a4589b/fulham_selling_michael_jackson_products_to_go_with_their_odd_statue.jpg)
First things first, here is the most expensive item in the collection. A Michael Jackson tribute umbrella. Actually, it appears to be an umbrella in tribute to the statute in tribute to Michael Jackson, but don't spend too much time thinking about that. Michael liked umbrellas. He used them a lot. He would want you to have this one. It can be yours for £29.99.
(http://l.yimg.com/a/p/sp/editorial_image/e0/e0429252db1c62f75dfbd4300ac642c9/fulham_selling_michael_jackson_products_to_go_with_their_odd_statue.jpg)
How about a book written by another friend of Michael's who is also now trying to profit form his death? And it even comes with the added bonus of "dark side" conspiracy theories. Ooo! It can be yours for £17.99. And if your dead popstar merchandise budget is a little tight, there is also a paperback version available for £14.99. So you have no excuse to not buy this.
(http://l.yimg.com/a/p/sp/editorial_image/75/75f344218524dfc088f917ba986e7051/fulham_selling_michael_jackson_products_to_go_with_their_odd_statue.jpg)
Sure, no one really needs a lanyard and the only thing Michael Jacksony about this is that it has his name written on it a few times, but come on. It can be yours for £2.99. You should probably buy 10 of them.
(http://l.yimg.com/a/p/sp/editorial_image/8b/8b388620c2fbfb97ee31d6c825b3b72f/fulham_selling_michael_jackson_products_to_go_with_their_odd_statue.jpg)
This is just breathtaking. It's an ugly shirt that features a man wearing an ugly shirt on it. There are multiple dimensions to the ugliness. I'm pretty sure this is how the space-time continuum gets ripped. It can be yours for £16.99.
http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/blog/dirty-tackle/post/Fulham-selling-Michael-Jackson-products-to-go-wi?urn=sow-wp2895 (http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/blog/dirty-tackle/post/Fulham-selling-Michael-Jackson-products-to-go-wi?urn=sow-wp2895)
Early Europa return is blessing not burden, says Jol
The Fulham manager Martin Jol insists nobody is complaining about the Cottagers' early return to competitive football and even backed his charges to repeat the Europa League exploits of two years ago.
The former Tottenham manager began pre-season with his new troops last week in preparation for his first match at the helm against NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands in the Europa League first round tonight.
Fulham have fond memories of the competition having defeated the likes of Shakhtar Donetsk, Hamburg and Juventus on the way to a final showdown with Atletico Madrid in 2010. The run surprised many but Jol believes the Cottagers could once again progress through the competition.
"I would imagine that there are quite a few teams that would like to be in Europe," he said. "In Holland you play for Europe and I think it is the same in England. In the league you play for the support and yourself.
"You want to stay in the league firstly, but secondly you want to finish in the first five or six spots. You want to be in Europe. That is the goal. Maybe that wasn't the goal for Fulham but because they are playing the way they did, they did well in the Fair Play. If you can do that and if you're lucky enough you play in Europe, you can't complain. Two years ago they did unbelievably well, gave the club a good profile in Europe and the money was coming in as well."
Asked whether his side could repeat the exploits of 2010, he added: "You need a bit of luck but I remember Fulham playing against Shakhtar Donetsk and beating them. I cannot remember Shakhtar losing a game at home so they certainly played a way that could prove to be successful in Europe, so why not?"
Jol admitted that he would need a squad of more than 20 players to reach such heady heights again but refused to comment on any of the players he is looking to bring in. The likes of Tottenham's David Bentley and Jermaine Jenas have been linked with a move to west London, while West Ham striker Carlton Cole has also been mentioned as a target.
"I will never name names because in this business there are always other clubs watching you," he said. "We will do that privately. I have seen eight or nine names linked with us and that was not true.
"We need a couple of additions but I won't bring players here for the sake of it because we still have young players as well. I have to give them a chance to play, to be happy and to develop themselves. I think there will be two or three players coming into my squad and I will give them a chance in the next couple of weeks to prove themselves."
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/early-europa-return-is-blessing-not-burden-says-jol-2304663.html? (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/early-europa-return-is-blessing-not-burden-says-jol-2304663.html?)
Jol prepares for David and Goliath clash
New Fulham manager Martin Jol will not be taking minnows NSI Runavik lightly when the two sides meet in the Europa League on Thursday.
The abnormally early start to the season comes due to Fulham's participation in the first round of qualifying for the Europa League, after they topped the 2010/11 English Premier League Fair Play standings.
And while the club from Faroe Islands will be living the dream as they face Premier League opposition at Craven Cottage, Jol is not assuming that things will be easy.
"You can't take it (Thursday's match) lightly," Jol told Fulham's official website.
"It's a European game and I think all the lads want to prove themselves. It's a bit early in the season but I don't see it being a problem. You play football to play in Europe and test yourself at that level."
"We've got a couple of scouts in the Faroe Islands and they've provided us with some good footage."
NSI Runavik finished third in the Faroe Islands Premier League last season and their team is made of largely of semi-professional players.
Jol, who only recently succeeded Mark Hughes as Fulham boss, also sang the praises of the club's playing group for their attitude towards training and revealed that he may look to some of the Cottagers' younger players to make a mark in Thursday's first leg.
"I have to say they're (the players) a fine bunch of lads," he said.
"They work hard every day with smiles on their faces. The boys are quite fit and they've been very professional. They did their fitness programmes over the summer and we've tested them over the last four or five days. Bobby Zamora, who came in two days ago, looks really fit."
"I can involve them all (on Thursday night) and there will be one or two younger players involved, even in the line-up."
http://www.soccerway.com/news/2011/June/30/jol-prepares-for-david-and-goliath-clash/? (http://www.soccerway.com/news/2011/June/30/jol-prepares-for-david-and-goliath-clash/?)
Curtain Up at the Cottage
Posted by Phil Mison 3 hours, 33 minutes ago
Runavik journey to London for a preliminary round tie that should prove a walkover for the Whites in the Europa League, regardless of what team we put out.
Welcome back dear readers - it's the show that never ends. Let me fess up straight away to being in Texas on trade show duties linked to my business in the world of tenpin bowling. Yes indeed, I'm here to press the flesh with my two major American clients and share in the Texan hospitality - we finish up Thursday night with a gala hoe down at Cowboys Stadium - by which time the Fulham result will be through.
Those heading for the Cottage, a healthy crowd in prospect I gather, won't need cowboy boots or bunting to enjoy their own summer's night on the banks of the Thames. I will be amazed if the Faroe Islanders get below a three goal margin in defeat.
Since Jol's appointment I have no more insider knowledge of goings on at FFC than we have all gleaned from the usual sources of information. I wouldn't have expected any transfer activity this early from Martin, the absence of some of our bigger international stars was anticipated, and it is surely inevitable that Jol will field a largely experimental side against the part-timers.
One or two big guns should sensibly start on the bench in case things don't go according to plan, but frankly I could almost fancy my own chances of getting through 90 minutes in my carpet slippers against this lot.
As to the bigger picture, I thought Jol made all the right noises at his opening press conference. He seems to be sidestepping all the has beens linked with Fulham since January, while keeping his own council on where the reinforcements might come from. In an ideal world I would love to see us being linked to Adam and N'Zogbia (especially as we should have snapped him up for £2 mill 3 seasons ago) but I have every confidence Jol will attract enough names of stature to augment his squad. He has been pretty blunt in saying we need to lower the average age of the side - which we can all see. I am slightly puzzled by the need for a new keeper, and can't quite work out who is the likelier to be moved on - Mark or Stockers.
There's still a few weeks to go before we can draw up any sensible assessment of our chances in the new season. In the meantime I suggest we all kick back and grab some rays while we can. As the temperature here in the greater Dallas area has been around 100 all week, that is precisely what I intend to do in the next 48 hours.
For those going, enjoy the game and COYW as always.
Twitter@fulhamphil
http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2011/06/curtain_up_at_the_cottage.php? (http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2011/06/curtain_up_at_the_cottage.php?)
Michael Halliday has fingers crossed Crues get Fulham clash
Michael Halliday has sent Fulham a special 'good luck' message for their Europa League campaign which starts tonight.
The reason for the striker's sudden interest in the London club's fortunes is easily understood as Crusaders will get a crack at Martin Jol's side if they can see off the challenge of NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands in the first qualifying round.
The first leg will be at Craven Cottage tonight and it's a venue Stephen Baxter's men are hoping to visit on Thursday, July 21.
Suddenly there's a new army of Fulham fans on the Shore Road and Halliday, who helped Glentoran stun AC Allianssi in the Uefa Cup in 2004, is relishing a rare opportunity for an Irish League club to go toe to toe with English top flight opponents.
"I think it's fair to say we would all be devastated if Fulham didn't progress in the Europa League after we got them in the draw," said Halliday.
"As far as we are concerned it would be the biggest shock in football if Runavik beat them and it would be tough to take from our perspective.
"The Fulham game is a real glamour one for everyone including the fans who would only normally see the players, many of whom are internationals, on the television.
"The two Northern Ireland internationals (Chris Baird and Aaron Hughes) increase the local interest and I would expect a great atmosphere at both matches.
"It's more difficult now for an Irish League side to get this quality of opponent in European competition so we have struck it lucky this time.
"I can remember talk of Glentoran playing Liverpool but we ended up getting TNS.
"For many of our players like Stuart Dallas and Jordan Owens it's another big stage to show what they can do and I'm sure they'll relish the chance to perform well."
Halliday is also looking forward to lining up alongside another former Glentoran stalwart Paul Leeman.
"Paul's a fantastic signing for us," he added.
"The one thing you need to challenge for the big trophies is strength in depth and the new signings give the manager more options. Hopefully we can be in contention for the title again."
Read more: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/local/michael-halliday-has-fingers-crossed-crues-get-fulham-clash-16017814.html?#ixzz1QjzLqxnw (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/local/michael-halliday-has-fingers-crossed-crues-get-fulham-clash-16017814.html?#ixzz1QjzLqxnw)
Fulham manager Martin Jol's costly start in Europa League
The first qualifying round of the Europa League against NSI Runavik is not the only obstacle to have been placed in Martin Jol's path this week.
(http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01933/martin-jol_1933697c.jpg)
Fulham man: Martin Jol had a set-back ahead of his Fulham debut
Photo: ACTION IMAGES
On Tuesday, the Fulham manager had a car containing all of his belongings, including his passport, towed away after a "misunderstanding" over parking restrictions in the Wimbledon area.
Hans Segers, confirmed as Fulham's new goalkeeping coach, had advised him of a suitable location, but they had to pay £55 to have the car released.
The first leg of tomorrow night's Europa League match against Runavik, from the Faroe Islands, should be less problematic.
Aside from Clint Dempsey, who will return to training on July 15 after being on international duty with the United States, and Moussa Dembele, who has an ankle injury, Fulham will be at full strength.
"You can't take it lightly — it's a European game and the first game of the season," said Jol.
"The timing of the match is no problem."
Former Tottenham manager Jol, who replaced Mark Hughes at Fulham in early June, confirmed that Ray Lewington would be kept on at Craven Cottage as his assistant.
The Dutchman also confirmed that winger Zolton Gera as well as defender John Pantsil had left the club.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8606764/Fulham-manager-Martin-Jols-costly-start-in-Europa-League.html? (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8606764/Fulham-manager-Martin-Jols-costly-start-in-Europa-League.html?)
Hughes expects a Fulham cruise
Aaron Hughes admits he does not know too much about Fulham's Europa League opponents NSI Runavik - but is not expecting an upset.
The Cottagers began pre-season last week in preparation for Thursday's first-round tie at Craven Cottage against the team from the Faroe Islands.
Hughes is one of a handful of players within the Fulham squad to have played a side from the Nordic country, having drawn 1-1 against their national team with Northern Ireland last October.
But despite almost coming a cropper on international duty, the defender does not expect too much pressure from the opponents.
"I don't know a great deal about them," he said. "We have not had a chance to look at them too much this week because it has more been about preparation on the football pitch and a little bit of top-up on fitness.
"I guess in the meeting before the game anything that the lads inside have found they will highlight and give us an idea before we go out.
"It is as much about focusing about what we do and making sure we do all the basic things right, which should be enough to take us through."
Fulham are 1/100 with some bookies to win the match, while the visitors are priced by some as 66/1 to spring an upset.
The odds come as no surprise seeing as NSI hail from a town of just 4,000 inhabitants and are made up of part-time players, including a teacher and trainee telephone salesman.
Club captain and star player Christian Hogni Jacobsen has even admitted that Fulham would need to have an "incredibly bad day" for them to have any chance of victory.
The Londoners' expected dominance could go someway to explaining why more than 12,000 tickets have already been sold for this evening's clash - and recently-appointed manager Martin Jol is hoping to entertain those that turn out.
"I do not want to concede too many goals and play attractive football because that is what our supporters want," he said of the approach he is bringing to the club.
"That is probably the same at Spurs. You have a kind of culture and style that you play for the crowds and that is what we try to do here.
"We have got a few youngsters in the squad so of course there is four or five players not here, they are on holiday so it is a nice opportunity for these youngsters to show and prove themselves.
"I can't imagine going out in the first round but it is football so you never know.
"You could say that it is 90% sure that we go through but you still have to do the business and our players know that."
http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/7010825/Hughes-expects-a-Fulham-cruise? (http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/7010825/Hughes-expects-a-Fulham-cruise?)
West Brom wait on Zoltan
WEST Brom expect to find out in the next few days whether midfielder Zoltan Gera will be rejoining them.
Gera is a free agent after his contract with Fulham expired at the end of last season.
Gera's agent Vladan Filipovic said: "The negotiations are in a period where we can agree anytime (with a club)."
Gera spent four years at the Hawthorns, helping them avoid the drop in 2005. West Brom are also waiting to see if Lazio will come in with an offer for defender Gabriel Tamas.
http://www.thisissouthwales.co.uk/story-12854006-detail/story.html? (http://www.thisissouthwales.co.uk/story-12854006-detail/story.html?)
Jol reunited with coach Segers at Fulham
Fulham manager Martin Jol has linked up with Hans Segers again after appointing him the club's goalkeeping coach.
The recently-appointed Dutchman has brought in fellow countryman Segers to fill the role vacated by Kevin Hitchcock.
Segers worked with Jol at Tottenham, while Ray Lewington has been promoted from a youth coaching role to one of Jol's assistant.
"[Hans] comes from PSV Eindhoven, I worked with him in my time at Spurs so I know him very well," he said.
"We started off with Ray Lewington because he's probably a main figure here, at this club, he knows everything.
"He was here when Roy [Hodgson] was here and working here for the academy when Mark [Hughes] was here, so I think he's a key figure here."
Jol had already previously drafted in brother Cornelis Jol and Michael Lindeman to the management set-up at Craven Cottage.
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-news-Hans-Segers-who-was-goalkeeping-coach-at-Spurs-under-Martin-Jol-has-joined-club-article754007.html#ixzz1Qk0qa3w0 (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-news-Hans-Segers-who-was-goalkeeping-coach-at-Spurs-under-Martin-Jol-has-joined-club-article754007.html#ixzz1Qk0qa3w0)
Sign up for MirrorFootball's Morning Spy newsletter Register here
Fulham focus on basics ahead of Europa League tie
Fulham defender Aaron Hughes admits he does not know too much about this evening's Europa League opponents NSI Runavik but is not expecting to come out on the wrong end of an upset.
The Cottagers began pre-season last week in preparation for the tonight's first-round tie at Craven Cottage against the team from the Faroe Islands.
Hughes is one of a handful of players within the Fulham squad to have played a side from the Nordic country, having drawn 1-1 against their national team with Northern Ireland last October.
But despite almost coming a cropper on international duty, the defender does not expect too much pressure from tonight's opponents.
"I don't know a great deal about them," he said. "We have not had a chance to look at them too much this week because it has more been about preparation on the football pitch and a little bit of top-up on fitness.
"I guess in the meeting before the game anything that the lads inside have found they will highlight and give us an idea before we go out.
"It is as much about focusing about what we do and making sure we do all the basic things right, which should be enough to take us through."
Fulham are 1/100 with some bookies to win the match, while the visitors are priced by some as 66/1 to spring an upset.
The odds come as no surprise seeing as NSI hail from a town of just 4,000 inhabitants and are made up of part-time players, including a teacher and trainee telephone salesman.
Club captain and star player Christian Hogni Jacobsen has even admitted that Fulham would need to have an "incredibly bad day" for them to have any chance of victory.
The Londoners' expected dominance could go someway to explaining why more than 12,000 tickets have already been sold for this evening's clash - and recently-appointed manager Martin Jol is hoping to entertain those that turn out.
"I do not want to concede too many goals and play attractive football because that is what our supporters want," he said of the approach he is bringing to the club.
"That is probably the same at Spurs. You have a kind of culture and style that you play for the crowds and that is what we try to do here.
"We have got a few youngsters in the squad so of course there is four or five players not here, they are on holiday so it is a nice opportunity for these youngsters to show and prove themselves.
"I can't imagine going out in the first round but it is football so you never know. You could say that it is 90% sure that we go through but you still have to do the business and our players know that."
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23965795-fulham-focus-on-basics-ahead-of-europa-league-tie.do? (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23965795-fulham-focus-on-basics-ahead-of-europa-league-tie.do?)
Jol won't sell Stockdale
Fulham boss keen to send keeper out on loan next season
Fulham boss Martin Jol has confirmed he will try to send David Stockdale out on loan after stressing he has no plans to sell the goalkeeper.
Stockdale made seven Premier League appearances for Fulham last season when deputising for Mark Schwarzer and he was also called into the England squad.
Veteran Australian keeper Schwarzer is expected to be Jol's first choice in the coming season and that has prompted question marks over Stockdale's future at Craven Cottage.
However, the 25-year-old has impressed new goalkeeping coach Hans Segers and Jol feels the shot-stopper would benefit from going out on loan.
"We saw him in training and Hans Segers said he's a big talent," said Jol.
"I won't sell him because I think his future is bright, but the only thing is we need a club which will promise me he will play every week."
Stockdale joined Fulham in 2008 from Darlington and has already undertaken loan spells at Rotherham United, Leicester City and Plymouth Argyle.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_7010891,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_7010891,00.html?)
Leeds United: Fulham join race to sign Gradel
(http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/webimage/yep_2497_1_3527022!image/3940790283.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_595/3940790283.jpg)
Max Gradel in match action.
Fulham have joined West Ham United in the race to sign Leeds United winger Max Gradel.
The Premier League club are set to put fresh pressure on Leeds by involving themselves in the fight for United's highly-rated player of the year.
West Ham's intentions became clear earlier this week, albeit claims of a multi-million pound bid from Upton Park appear to have been premature, and Fulham's interest raises fresh doubt about whether Gradel will be part of the squad at Elland Road when the Championship season begins on August 6.
Leeds manager Simon Grayson had no plans to sell Gradel this summer but the Ivory Coast international is out of contract in 12 months' time and has not yet been offered an improved deal.
Attention on Gradel, who scored 18 goals in the Championship last season, has increased dramatically in the past fortnight, with Swansea City named as another club who hope to take the 23-year-old on board before the start of the Premier League term.
Gradel is one of the most sought-after members of Grayson's squad, along with fellow-winger Robert Snodgrass, but the short-term nature of his deal with Leeds is encouraging rival managers to assess his value.
The former Leicester City trainee – a £200,000 signing by Grayson in January of 2010 – was due to report back to Thorp Arch with the rest of United's players for the first day of pre-season training this morning but the club are braced for bids during the coming weeks.
Any agreement to sell Gradel would be deeply unpopular among United's support but Grayson has made it clear that both Gradel and Snodgrass, who recently drew an unsuccessful offer from Norwich City, are players he wishes to retain.
Gradel has also declared his intention to remain at Elland Road but a contract with either West Ham or Fulham would dramatically increase his current wage.
Both clubs have changed managers since the end of last season, with Fulham appointing Martin Jol and Sam Allardyce replacing Avram Grant in the Upton Park hotseat.
http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/latest-whites-news/leeds_united_fulham_join_race_to_sign_gradel_1_3527023 (http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/latest-whites-news/leeds_united_fulham_join_race_to_sign_gradel_1_3527023)
Martin Jol fancies Fulham for another extended Europa League campaign
Fulham manager Martin Jol insists nobody is complaining about the Cottagers' early return to competitive football and even backed his charges to repeat their Europa League exploits of two years ago.
The former Tottenham boss began pre-season with his new troops last week in preparation for his first match at the helm against NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands in the Europa League first round tonight.
Fulham surprised many by reaching the 2010 final, where they lost to Atletico Madrid, and Jol believes the West Londoners could once again progress through the competition.
'If you're lucky enough to play in Europe you can't complain,' said Jol whose team qualified for the competition via the Fair Play League under former manager Mark Hughes.
'Two years ago they did unbelievably well, gave the club a good profile and the money was coming in.'
Asked whether his side could repeat those exploits, the Dutchman added: 'You need luck but I remember Fulham beating Shakhtar Donetsk [en route to the final]. I can't remember Shakhtar losing at home so they certainly played a way that could be successful in Europe, so why not?'
With the likes of Moussa Dembele, Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey unavailable, Jol could hand debuts to Finnish striker Lauri Dalla Valle, 19, and 17-year-old Swiss midfielder Kerim Frei.
But even with some inexperience in his starting XI, Jol is confident his men will progress to the second round where they would meet Belfast side Crusaders, adding: 'You could say that it is 90 per cent sure that we go through but you still have to do the business and our players know that.'
Read more: http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/867862-martin-jol-fancies-fulham-for-another-extended-europa-league-campaign#ixzz1QkSG8ELo (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/867862-martin-jol-fancies-fulham-for-another-extended-europa-league-campaign#ixzz1QkSG8ELo)
Fulham manager Martin Jol keen to keep David Stockdale but plans to send goalkeeper out on loan
The keeper needs to play regular football elsewhere, according to the Dutch coach, who believes the 25-year-old is a bright talent who he wants to keep at Craven Cottage
Fulham manager Martin Jol intends to loan out goalkeeper David Stockdale to ensure he plays regular football.
Mark Schwarzer is believed to be the first-choice keeper of the new boss at Craven Cottage, which led to reports suggesting the 25-year-old's future at the London club was in doubt.
However, the Dutch coach has clarified the situation, stating he is a talented prospect and that loaning him to a club where he would be playing consistently is the main aim.
"We saw him in training and Hans Segers said he's a big talent," Jol said, according to Sky Sports.
"I won't sell him because I think his future is bright, but the only thing is we need a club which will promise me he will play every week."
Stockdale joined Fulham from Darlington in 2008, playing for York prior to that, and has spent time out on loan at Rotherham United, Leicester City and Plymouth Argyle.
The Leeds-born goalkeeper had stints in the Craven Cottage first team last season when Schwarzer was injured or away on international duty, impressing in his appearances.
He was called up to the England squad for their match against Switzerland but had to withdraw because the date of the game coincided closely with his wedding.
Although he is yet to make an appearance for the national side, he has moved up the pecking order thanks to fellow keepers Ben Foster and Paul Robinson making themselves unavailable for selection.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/06/30/2554204/fulham-manager-martin-jol-keen-to-keep-david-stockdale-but-plans-? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/06/30/2554204/fulham-manager-martin-jol-keen-to-keep-david-stockdale-but-plans-?)
Duo out of Cottagers early start
Fulham will be without Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey for Thursday's Europa League first round qualifier against NSI Runavik.
The Cottagers return to competitive action against the Faroe Islands part-timers as they begin their quest to get back into the Europa League, just over a year after they reached the final of the competition.
With last season having finished just over a month ago, Fulham's players have only recently returned for pre-season training under new manager Martin Jol.
The Dutchman will be unable to call on Salcido and Dempsey for the match at Craven Cottage due to their involvement in the Concacaf Gold Cup in America.
Jol is likely to give a number of youngsters the chance to impress, with Lauri Dalla Valle and Kerim Frei expected to start in the absence of some first-team regulars.
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/duo-out-of-cottagers-early-start-1232934.html? (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/duo-out-of-cottagers-early-start-1232934.html?)
Hangeland Impressed(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/hangeland/Clapping1.jpg)
Fulham will take the first step towards potential UEFA Europa League qualification tonight when the Whites take on NSI Runavik at Craven Cottage (kick-off 19:30).
Martin Jol will take charge of Fulham for the first-time and, after just a week of pre-season training, the Dutchman has already impressed Brede Hangeland.
"Training's been good, we looked forward to meeting the new manager and his staff so it's all positive," Hangeland told fulhamfc.com. "The Manager has made a really positive impression, we've done lots of work with the ball and obviously the fitness people have done their work so we're all looking forward to the first game.
"We're hoping for a smooth transition, obviously when a new manager comes in there'll be some adjustments but we're hoping to keep moving forward as a club and to get stronger as a team. I see no reason why that shouldn't happen this year.
"The players know each other really well now, we know our strengths and weaknesses. The new manager is also very much aware of how we have played and how we can improve even more."
Fulham will be billed as heavy favourites going into the opening game of the UEFA Europa League qualification campaign but Hangeland insisted that the players won't be taking their opponents lightly.
"Obviously this game comes a long time before the start of the season," he explained. "But we'll have to approach this game as professionally as we would any game. We all know where it can end so we just want to get through."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/HangelandRunavikHomePreview.aspx?#ixzz1Ql7y1VRC (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/HangelandRunavikHomePreview.aspx?#ixzz1Ql7y1VRC)
Fulham v NSÍ Runavík tickets
UEFA Europa League Qualifier
Thursday 30th June
Kick-Off 19:30
Please note all supporters will be allocated paper tickets for this game as Season Ticket and Membership cards have not yet been sent out for the new season.
You should have already received paper ticket(s) in the post for today's UEFA Europa League qualifying game against NSI Runavik.
No Season Ticket or Membership cards will be loaded for this match so be sure to bring along your paper ticket or collect it from the Ticket Collection Booth before the match.
If you are collecting your tickets from the Ticket Collection Booth on Stevenage Road, please arrive as early as possible as there are a large number of ticket collections for this evenings game and queues are expected..
On-sale dates
Season Ticket Holders Now on sale (Unlimited)
General Sale Now on sale (Unlimited)
Loyalty points: 6 (more info)
As you may be aware, UEFA regulations mean that we are required to make special alterations to the ticketing arrangements for all European matches being held at the Cottage. To minimise the impact these alterations have on stadium access & egress, the Club have elected to house visiting supporters in Blocks H - K & HL - KL of the Johnny Haynes Stand. Any supporters on the Home Cup Scheme in these areas will be allocated alterative seating in best available seats.
Buy tickets online
How to Buy Tickets
buy tickets online - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day. Save on booking fees by booking online*
by phone on 0843 208 1234 (option 1) - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day
in person from the Ticket Office: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm
Pay on the Gate
* Lower booking fees compared to telephone booking
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/RunavikHome.aspx#ixzz1Ql8G8k3a (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/RunavikHome.aspx#ixzz1Ql8G8k3a)
Fulham v NSI Runavik: Big Match Preview
Big Match Preview: Fulham v NSI Runavik
UEFA Europa League: First round qualifier
Venue: Craven Cottage
Date: June 30 – Kick-off: 7.30pm
TEAM NEWS
Having returned to pre-season training last week, just a month since the end of last season, Fulham face the Faroe Islands part-timers at Craven Cottage.
Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey are unavailable as they featured in the recent Concacaf Gold Cup in California. The match represents Martin Jol's first in charge of the Londoners.
No complaints from Martin Jol despite early start
Martin Jol believes Fulham can enjoy a similar to two years ago when they reached the Europa League Final, having qualified for the competition through last season's Fair Play League.
It's an early start to what promises to be a long and arduous campaign, but the new Cottagers boss is not concerned about kicking off the season so soon after last.
"I would imagine that there are quite a few teams that would like to be in Europe," said Jol. "We have got a few youngsters in the squad because of course there are four or five players not here.
"You want to be in Europe. That is the goal. Maybe that wasn't the goal for Fulham but because they are playing the way they did, they did well in the Fair Play cup.
"If you can do that and if you're lucky enough you play in Europe so you can't complain. Two years ago they did unbelievably well, gave the club a good profile in Europe and the money was coming in as well.
"You need a bit of luck [to repeat that] but I remember Fulham playing against Shakhtar Donetsk and beating them. I can't remember Shakhtar losing a game at home so they certainly played a way that could be successful in Europe, so why not?"
Lauri Dalla Valle and Kerim Frei are two young players that could be handed debuts against NSI Runavik as a result of the absences of Salcido and Dempsey, but Jol is confident of victory.
"We have got a few youngsters in the squad because of course there are four or five players not here," said Jol. "It is a nice opportunity for these youngsters to show and prove themselves. I can't imagine going out in the first round but it is football so you never know.
"You could say that it is 90 per cent sure that we go through but you still have to do the business and our players know that."
http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/fulham-v-nsi-runavik-big-match-preview? (http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/fulham-v-nsi-runavik-big-match-preview?)
Fulham's Euro tilt begins
Published Date: 30 June 2011
Fulham defender Aaron Hughes admits he does not know much about tonight's Europa League opponents NSI Runavik but is not expecting to come out on the wrong end of an upset.
The Cottagers began pre-season last week in preparation for this evening's first-round tie at Craven Cottage against the team from the Faroe Islands. "I don't know a great deal about them," he said. "We have not had a chance to look at them too much this week because it has more been about preparation on the football pitch and a little bit of top-up on fitness.
"I guess in the meeting before the game anything that the lads inside have found they will highlight before we go out. It is as much about making sure we do all the basic things right, which should be enough to take us through."
http://edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/Fulham39s-Euro-tilt-begins-.6793619.jp? (http://edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/Fulham39s-Euro-tilt-begins-.6793619.jp?)
Up next: NSI Runavik (h)
by DAN on JUNE 30, 2011
Barely a week after returning to pre-season training, Fulham's players return to European action tonight with a tie against the largely unknown NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands. Martin Jol has spoken about his plans to treat the early Europa League qualification rounds as friendly matches with a competitive edge but will be wary of any embarrassing slip-ups so early in his tenure at Craven Cottage.
Jol has maintained the line that Fulham are very happy to be part of another European campaign, despite the June start that might threaten to disrupt their season later on. Such warnings went unheeded as Fulham went all the way to the final in that memorable run thirteen months ago and Jol has spoken positively about the prospect of emulating that success.
With a few key players missing, the 12,000 fans who have purchased tickets in advance will get a glimpse of some of the club's youth prospects tonight. It has been a source of frustration that previous Fulham managers, perhaps stretching back to Chris Coleman, have opted against giving youth their head in competitive games. You can perhaps understand the impulse to play safe, especially as the club's Premier League status was frequently in jeopardy. The papers have tipped former Liverpool striker Lauri Dalle Valle, who has been training with the first-team this week, and midfielder Alex Frei to make their full debuts this evening.
The chances of Dalle Valle, signed by Mark Hughes on the recommendation of Fulham's academy director Huw Jennings and chief scout Malcolm Elias, making a first-team breakthrough this year have risen after Jol appeared to rule out strengthening his striking options by signing a new forward in interviews yesterday. The Finnish international has impressed during pre-season and highly thought of at Motspur Park. Loaned out to Bournemouth as cover towards the end of last season, Dalle Valle made an impression before the Cherries' first-team strikers returned to form and fitness. He deserves an opportunity to show us all what he can do.
Karim Frei has also been predicted to get a run-out tonight. The teenage midfielder has impressed since signing from Grasshopper Zurich last January, quickly progressing through the age-ranked sides and representing the reserves on a couple of occasions. Frei's an exciting talent, with an eye for a gap and a penchant for dribbling past opponents. It might be a stretch to see him from the start tonight, but he could get a late introduction from the bench. Matthew Briggs should start at left back in the absence of Carlos Salcido and this fixture will be the ideal opportunity for the youngster to build on his handful of first-team starts from last season. He was often thrown in at the deep during the last campaign, but impressed in his first outing against Port Vale, so we should expect a few more barnstorming runs down the left from him. Whether Keanu Marsh-Brown, who enjoyed a successful loan spell with MK Dons last term, gets a chance to impress is a question that will only be answered tonight.
Jol's side will hope to put some clear distance between themselves and the Faroese part-timers tonight to make the second leg more of a formality and another opportunity for experimentation.
MY FULHAM XI: Stockdale; Kelly, Briggs, Halliche, Senderos; Greening, Murphy, Marsh-Brown, Duff; A. Johnson, Dalla Valle. Subs: Bettinelli, Baird, Smith, Etuhu, Sidwell, Peniket, Zamora.
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/06/up-next-nsi-runavik-h/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/06/up-next-nsi-runavik-h/?)
Home Kit Launch! (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Retail/2011-12-Products/resizedbobby.jpg)
Following on from our successful first year of new kits from our sponsor Kappa, we're stepping up the style again for this season with a striking new all-white Home Kit!
Look out for your favourite players wearing the new kit in the first game of the season - when we start our European adventure tonight against NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands.
Be the first to show off your Fulham colours in the stylish new all-white Home Kit. It will be available in store from the 21st July, but the good news is you can pre-order today!
Make sure that the whole family are kitted out in the brand new 2011/12 Home Kit with adult sizes from just £44.99 and child sizes from just £29.99.
Pre-order your new all-white Home Kit online, instore or direct by calling 0843 208 1223!
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/Homekitlaunch201112.aspx#ixzz1QlAS0G2D (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/Homekitlaunch201112.aspx#ixzz1QlAS0G2D)
Jol wary that Fulham may be set a test of endurance
(http://i.thisislondon.co.uk/i/pix/gen/2011/06/danny-murphy-15513.jpg)
Kicking off: Fulham captain Danny Murphy prepares to face Euro minnows Runavik tonight at the start of a long season
Martin Jol admits his squad will be tested to the limit by their early start to the season tonight but has no complaints that his Fulham reign will kick off six weeks before the Premier League.
The Dutchman's maiden game in charge since replacing Mark Hughes is a Europa League first-round qualifier against NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands at Craven Cottage.
Two years ago, under Roy Hodgson, Fulham entered the competition at the third-round qualifying stage and went all the way to the final, where they suffered the heartbreak of a 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid, the Spaniards scoring the winner just four minutes from the end of extra-time.
That match was Fulham's 19th in Europe that season and their exertions during that glorious campaign affected their fortunes domestically.
Another run to the final would add 23 matches to Fulham's fixture list and Jol is conscious of the potential pitfalls.
The former Tottenham manager said: "If you have a big squad then the Europa League is a nice competition to play in but if you have a small squad it can be a problem.
"In the past Fulham had a problem when they were in Europe: They were 12th in the league when they reached the final, and the season before they were seventh.
"Last season they weren't in Europe and finished eighth. But you play football to be in Europe and test yourself and your players at that level, so I'm always happy to be playing. But Roy and Mark did a fantastic job and it will be difficult to do better."
Jol expects his team - captained by Danny Murphy and which is likely to include youngsters Lauri Dalla Valle and Kerim Frei - to go all-out to prove themselves to him.
He added: "The analyst said they are a hard team to beat but I hope it will be a normal side from the Faroe Islands in terms of quality. I hope there will be no problem. You can't take it lightly because it is a European game and these lads want to prove themselves to me. This is a happy club and we want to keep it that way over the next couple of weeks."
Aaron Hughes was part of the Northern Ireland team who had to come from behind to salvage a 1-1 draw against the Faroe Islands last October.
But despite almost coming a cropper during the Euro 2012 qualifier, the Fulham defender does not expect his side to be under too much pressure.
He said: "It is as much about focusing about what we do and making sure we do all the basic things right, which should be enough to take us through."
Bookmakers have priced Fulham at 100-1 on to win the first leg against a side who are fourth in their country's top division.
Runavik hail from a town of just 4,000 inhabitants and are made up of part-time players, including a teacher and trainee telephone salesman.
Captain Christian Hogni Jacobsen has admitted that Fulham would need to have an "incredibly bad day" for them to have any chance of victory.
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23966055-jol-wary-that-fulham-may-be-set-a-test-of-endurance.do? (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23966055-jol-wary-that-fulham-may-be-set-a-test-of-endurance.do?)
Quote from: WhiteJC on June 30, 2011, 07:54:10 AM
Not taking this lying down
In 1903 1904 White shirts Black shorts
In 1904 1905 White shirts Black shorts
In 1905 1906 White shirts Black shorts
In 1906 1907 White shirts Black shorts
In 1907 1908 White shirts Black shorts
In 1908 1909 White shirts Black shorts
In 1909 1910 White shirts Black shorts
In 1910 1911 White shirts Black shorts
In 1911 1912 White shirts Black shorts
In 1912 1913 White shirts Black shorts
In 1913 1914 White shirts Black shorts
In 1914 1915 White shirts Black shorts
In 1919 1920 White shirts Black shorts
In 1920 1921 White shirts Black shorts
In 1921 1922 White shirts Black shorts
In 1922 1923 White shirts Black shorts
In 1923 1924 White shirts Black shorts
In 1924 1925 White shirts Black shorts
In 1925 1926 White shirts Black shorts
In 1926 1927 White shirts Black shorts
In 1927 1928 White shirts Black shorts
In 1928 1929 White shirts Black shorts
In 1929 1930 White shirts Black shorts
In 1930 1931 White shirts Black shorts
In 1931 1932 White shirts Black shorts
In 1932 1933 White shirts Black shorts
In 1933 1934 White shirts Black shorts
In 1934 1935 White shirts Black shorts
In 1935 1936 White shirts Black shorts
In 1936 1937 White shirts Black shorts
In 1937 1938 White shirts Black shorts
In 1938 1939 White shirts Black shorts
In 1946 1947 White shirts Black shorts
In 1947 1948 White shirts Black shorts
In 1948 1949 White shirts Black shorts
In 1949 1950 White shirts Black shorts
In 1950 1951 White shirts Black shorts
In 1951 1952 White shirts Black shorts
In 1952 1953 White shirts Black shorts
In 1953 1954 White shirts Black shorts
In 1954 1955 White shirts Black shorts
In 1955 1956 White shirts Black shorts
In 1956 1957 White shirts Black shorts
In 1957 1958 White shirts Black shorts
In 1958 1959 White shirts Black shorts
In 1959 1960 White shirts Black shorts
In 1960 1961 White shirts Black shorts
In 1961 1962 White shirts Black shorts
In 1962 1963 White shirts Black shorts
In 1963 1964 White shirts Black shorts
In 1964 1965 White shirts Black shorts
In 1965 1966 White shirts Black shorts
In 1966 1967 White shirts Black shorts
In 1967 1968 White shirts Black shorts
In 1968 1969 White shirts Black shorts
In 1969 1970 White shirts Black shorts
In 1970 1971 White shirts Black shorts
In 1971 1972 White shirts Black shorts
In 1972 1973 White shirts Black shorts
In 1973 1974 White shirts Black shorts
In 1974 1975 White shirts Black shorts
In 1975 1976 White shirts Black shorts
In 1976 1977 White shirts Black shorts
In 1977 1978 White shirts Black shorts
In 1978 1979 White shirts Black shorts
In 1979 1980 White shirts Black shorts
In 1980 1981 White shirts Black shorts
In 1981 1982 White shirts Black shorts
In 1982 1983 White shirts Black shorts
In 1983 1984 White shirts Black shorts
In 1984 1985 White shirts Black shorts
In 1985 1986 White shirts Black shorts
In 1986 1987 White shirts Black shorts
In 1987 1988 White shirts Black shorts
In 1988 1989 White shirts Black shorts
In 1989 1990 White shirts Black shorts
In 1990 1991 White shirts Black shorts
In 1991 1992 White shirts Black shorts
In 1992 1993 White shirts Black shorts
In 1993 1994 White shirts Black shorts
In 1994 1995 White shirts Black shorts
In 1995 1996 White shirts Black shorts
In 1996 1997 White shirts Black shorts
In 1997 1998 White shirts Black shorts
In 1998 1999 White shirts Black shorts
In 1999 2000 White shirts Black shorts
In 2000 2001 White shirts Black shorts
In 2001 2002 White shirts Black shorts
In 2002 2003 White shirts Black shorts
In 2003 2004 White shirts Black shorts
In 2004 2005 White shirts Black shorts
In 2005 2006 White shirts Black shorts
In 2006 2007 White shirts Black shorts
In 2007 2008 White shirts Black shorts
In 2008 2009 White shirts Black shorts
In 2009 2010 White shirts Black shorts
In 2010 2011 White shirts Black shorts
In 2011 2012 White shirts White shorts
Ridiculous.
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/not-taking-this-lying-down/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/06/29/not-taking-this-lying-down/?)
+1
Jol confirms Fulham legend Lewington as assistant
(http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_news_article_header_image/Ray%20Lewington.jpg)
Fulham boss Martin Jol has confirmed that Ray Lewington will be kept on as his new assistant and that Hans Segers has been appointed goalkeeping coach.
The Dutchman takes charge of his first match since succeeding Mark Hughes as Fulham host NSI Runavik in their Europa League qualifying clash tonight.
But the former Spurs manager has been busy behind the scenes, promoting club legend Lewington from a youth role to his number two, and bringing in Segers, who spent 17 years as a player in England.
"Ray Lewington is my assistant," said Jol. "We started off with him because he's probably a main figure here, at this club, he knows everything.
"He was here when Roy (Hodgson) was here and working here for the academy, and when Mark (Hughes) was here, so I think he's a key figure here.
"Hans is the goalkeeping coach. He comes from PSV Eindhoven, and I worked with him in my time at Spurs so I know him very well."
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/8699/0/jol-confirms-fulham-legend-lewington-assistant? (http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/8699/0/jol-confirms-fulham-legend-lewington-assistant?)
Europa League Betting: Fulham v NSI Runavik
Fulham are overwhelming favourites for their Europa League qualifier against NSI Runavik, but Michael Lintorn thinks the Faroese minnows are capable of scoring.
Roy Hodgson's first home game in charge of Fulham was against Chelsea, while Mark Hughes' was another glamour tie against Manchester United, so Martin Jol could be forgiven for feeling a little underwhelmed that he debuts in the Craven Cottage dugout against Faroese side NSI Runavik.
The Cottagers' prize for the good conduct that made them the highest-placed team in the Fair Play League not to have already qualified for Europe courtesy of their league position was a spot in the Europa League preliminary rounds and the opportunity to start their season in June.
But despite being forced into action more than six weeks earlier than most of their rivals for a top-half finish [2.4] in the Premier League, Jol has shown enthusiasm about the chance to participate in European competition and why not, given that his new employers are 1.05 to stroll to victory.
NSI Runavik lack the pedigree at this level to panic the 2009-10 finalists. They finished third in the Faroe Islands Premier League last term and are a distant fourth early in the new campaign, while 11 of their last dozen continental fixtures have ended in defeats to far less established clubs than Fulham.
That uninspiring record also includes six losses in six on the road, with three or more goals conceded in five of those and 20 leaked in total, which is why over 2.5 goals is rated a 1.22 near certainty.
Intriguingly, the minnows have enjoyed a surprisingly amount of success down the other end though, scoring in each of their last two European away matches and three of their last five, with one of the sides they struck against being the reasonably well established Rosenborg.
That provides hope of an away goal and there are hefty odds of 3.0 available on both teams finding the net. Lauri Dalla Valle and Kerim Frei will reportedly make debuts for the hosts yet even if they do experiment, a comfortable but not emphatic win is to be expected, with 3-1 the standout score pick at 17.0.
Best Bet: Both teams to score @ 3.0
Other Recommended Bet: Fulham to win 3-1 @ 17.0
http://betting.betfair.com/football/uefa-cup/europa-league-betting-fulham-v-nsi-runavik-300611.html? (http://betting.betfair.com/football/uefa-cup/europa-league-betting-fulham-v-nsi-runavik-300611.html?)
A warning from history
Birmingham decided to change their shorts for the 2008-09 season, but were relegated before they got the chance to wear them.
Middlesbrough decided to change their shorts for the 2009-10 season, but were relegated before they got the chance to wear them.
Reading decided to change their shorts for the 2008-09 season, but were relegated before they got the chance to wear them.
It's as if the powers-that-be (not the Premier League, much higher than that. The real powers that be. The omnipotent puppet-masters who run the world) are quite scornful of medium sized clubs trying to change for the sake of it. Just one more reason why this switch is a mistake.
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/06/30/a-warning-from-history/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/06/30/a-warning-from-history/?)
Jol to blood youngsters in European clash
Fulham will be without Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey for Thursday's Europa League first round qualifier against NSI Runavik.
The Cottagers return to competitive action against the Faroe Islands part-timers as they begin their quest to get back into the Europa League, just over a year after they reached the final of the competition.
With last season having finished just over a month ago, Fulham's players have only recently returned for pre-season training under new manager Martin Jol.
The Dutchman will be unable to call on Salcido and Dempsey for the match at Craven Cottage due to their involvement in the Concacaf Gold Cup in America.
Jol is likely to give a number of youngsters the chance to impress, with Lauri Dalla Valle and Kerim Frei expected to start in the absence of some first-team regulars.
http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/jol-to-blood-youngsters-in-european-clash-1232934.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/jol-to-blood-youngsters-in-european-clash-1232934.html?)
Fulham v NSI Runavik preview
Cottagers heavy favourites to overthrow Faroese minnows
Fulham will get their Europa League qualification campaign off to an early start when they meet Faroese minnows NSI Runavik on Thursday night.
The Cottagers, who booked a spot in the qualifying rounds through the Fair Play League last season, will host NSI in the first leg of the first round tie at Craven Cottage.
The Londoners only returned to pre-season training last week, just a month after the end of last season.
The clash will mark new manager Martin Jol'sfirst match in charge following Mark Hughes' exit at the beginning of the month.
Fulham will be looking to repeat their impressive run in the tournament in the 2009-10 season, when they overcame the likes of Shakhtar Donetsk, Hamburg and Juventus before eventually succumbing to Atletico Madrid in the final.
Jol's men are overwhelming favourites to win the encounter, which comes as no surprise given NSI hail from a town of just 4,000 inhabitants and are made up of part-time players, including a teacher and trainee telephone salesman.
Cottagers defender Aaron Hughes admits he does not know too much about Thursday evening's opponents, but is not expecting to come out on the wrong end of an upset.
Preparation
"I don't know a great deal about them," he said. "We have not had a chance to look at them too much this week because it has more been about preparation on the football pitch and a little bit of top-up on fitness.
"I guess in the meeting before the game anything that the lads inside have found they will highlight and give us an idea before we go out.
"It is as much about focusing about what we do and making sure we do all the basic things right, which should be enough to take us through."
New manager Jol feels Thursday's encounter will be a good opportunity to give some of the less experienced members of his squad a chance to show what they can do.
"We have got a few youngsters in the squad so of course there is four or five players not here, they are on holiday so it is a nice opportunity for these youngsters to show and prove themselves," he said.
"I can't imagine going out in the first round but it is football so you never know.
"You could say that it is 90 per cent sure that we go through but you still have to do the business and our players know that."
Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey are among those unavailable for the clash as they featured in the recent Concacaf Gold Cup in California.
Moussa Dembele is also missing, while youngsters such as Kerim Frei and former Liverpool man Lauri Dalla Valle may get an early chance to show Jol their potential.
http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3411769,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3411769,00.html?)
QPR kick off race for Campbell
QPR have reportedly made a £1.25million bid to sign Blackpool striker DJ Campbell, with Fulham, Stoke and Sunderland expected to follow suit.
QPR boss Neil Warnock is yet to make a move in the transfer market since winning promotion to the Premier League and is now stepping up his bid to bring in new recruits.
Warnock revealed earlier on Thursday that he expected to sign a 'few new players' over the next couple of weeks and has made an offer for Campbell.
The forward enjoyed an impressive campaign in the top flight last season as he scored 13 goals during Blackpool's ultimately unsuccessful battle to avoid relegation.
Campbell has a clause in his contract allowing him to leave Bloomfield Road for £1.25m and QPR are understood to have met that figure.
However, QPR may yet face competition for the former Birmingham City frontman with several clubs understood to be keen on Campbell.
Fulham, Stoke City and Sunderland have all been linked with offers, but QPR will hope to win the race for his signature.
http://www.teamtalk.com/queens-park-rangers/7011525/QPR-kick-off-race-for-Campbell? (http://www.teamtalk.com/queens-park-rangers/7011525/QPR-kick-off-race-for-Campbell?)
Jol confims duo have left Fulham
Zoltan Gera and John Pantsil have both left Fulham and are looking for new clubs, Martin Jol has confirmed.
The duo were out of contract at the end of last season but there was increased speculation that Jol would offer them new deals after succeeding Mark Hughes.
But the Dutchman says the pair, both of whom became cult heroes at Craven Cottage, have already gone and are free to find new employers - and he admits that could affect his transfer plans.
"Zoltan is s going, because his contract is expiring, so it was finished and he's looking for another club," said Jol.
"Pantsil is not here any more, so I feel for these players as well we are looking for a few additions."
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/8700/6/jol-confims-duo-have-left-fulham? (http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/8700/6/jol-confims-duo-have-left-fulham?)
U.S. international forward Eddie Johnson considering a return to MLS among other options
Once a dominant Major League Soccer forward, Eddie Johnson might return to the North American league after struggling to find a home abroad.
Johnson, who signed with Premiership club Fulham three years ago and has been loaned to various clubs, has had a rough run in Europe and his agent Richard Motzkin says the 27-year-old American is looking for a place where he can play an important role.
"Eddie is taking some time off after the season to get in the right frame of mind when making this decision," Motzkin told Goal.com. "We are speaking to various clubs around the world that have expressed their interest and he wants to make sure that he makes the right choice."
Johnson struggled to find the offensive touch in Europe that saw him score 41 goals in 127 MLS games. Once a prolific U.S. national team stalwart - Johnson scored seven goals in seven 2006 World Cup qualifiers - he has all but excluded him from international consideration.
It might make sense to return to the league that brought him his early career success.
Motzkin says that Johnson would be open to rejoining MLS if the opportunity fit what he was looking for. Motzkin, however, claims that Johnson still has an option to play in Europe as offers from Scandinavia to Germany have materialized.
Motzkin believes that his client will make a decision in the next two weeks.
Here are the top options for the forward who has scored 12 goals in 42 appearances for the U.S. national team.
1. English Championship: After a successful loan with Preston North End, largely coming off the bench in a wing position, there are several clubs in England's second division that could be interested in bringing Johnson on. He has shown that he can be successful in the Championship. But there are downfalls: Is he willing to sign for teams in a random English town without any guarantee of playing in his preferred role at forward?
Likely Destinations: Blackpool, Portsmouth, Burnley
2. Major League Soccer: Following in the path of Charlie Davies and Benny Feilhaber, Johnson could flourish in a return stateside. Having a chance to go back to where he was most prolific, success could mean a return to the national team if he can replicate his previous MLS form.
Considering his salaries both in MLS and England, he will most likely want to be a Designated Player and there aren't many MLS teams that have those financial resources. DP status would allow Johnson to choose the club that he wants to play for, whereas going through the allocation process could see him tied to a team that doesn't fit his strengths.
However, rejoining MLS would signal to some observers that he couldn't succeed abroad. Entering his prime, Johnson might not want to give up on his European dream quite yet.
Likely Destinations: Houston Dynamo, Seattle Sounders FC, Chicago Fire
3. Germany: An athletic league that is usually friendly towards Americans thanks to a relaxed policy toward work visas, Johnson could find a spot on a newly promoted Bundesliga side or a second division side like fellow U.S. international Edson Buddle.
However, signing with a German club presents some issues. Johnson would not likely get a guarantee of his role in Germany. Would he want to face a similar situation to the one he had at Fulham in which a bad start could see him spend years on the bench? Very unlikely.
Likely Destinations: Various.
http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news?slug=goal-usinternationalforwardeddie (http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news?slug=goal-usinternationalforwardeddie)
Quote from: WhiteJC on June 30, 2011, 02:04:22 PM
A warning from history
Birmingham decided to change their shorts for the 2008-09 season, but were relegated before they got the chance to wear them.
Middlesbrough decided to change their shorts for the 2009-10 season, but were relegated before they got the chance to wear them.
Reading decided to change their shorts for the 2008-09 season, but were relegated before they got the chance to wear them.
It's as if the powers-that-be (not the Premier League, much higher than that. The real powers that be. The omnipotent puppet-masters who run the world) are quite scornful of medium sized clubs trying to change for the sake of it. Just one more reason why this switch is a mistake.
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/06/30/a-warning-from-history/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/06/30/a-warning-from-history/?)
This is ridiculous.
