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General Category => Archive => Daily Fulham Stuff => Topic started by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 07:58:57 AM

Title: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 07:58:57 AM
 
Fulham win as 2011/12 campaign gets under way

The 2010 UEFA Europa League runners-up Fulham FC started with a win as the 2011/12 campaign began on Thursday with the opening leg of the first qualifying round ties.

(http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/Comp_Matches/01/64/83/45/1648345_w2.jpg)
Damien Duff (centre) is congratulated on his opening goal by Matthew Briggs and Danny Murphy
©Getty Images


There was a winning start from the 2010 runners-up Fulham FC as the 2011/12 UEFA Europa League got under way on Thursday with the opening leg of the 25 first qualifying round ties.

Precisely 305 days before the final in Bucharest on 9 May next year, Fulham ran out 3-0 home winners over Faroese visitors NSÍ Runavík in what was new coach Martin Jol's first game in charge of the Premier League club. The Londoners' lineup featured eight of the starting XI from their final defeat by Club Atlético de Madrid 13 months ago and one of that number, Irish midfielder Damien Duff, struck the opening goal after 33 minutes. Danny Murphy (penalty) and Andrew Johnson extended their advantage in the second half.

Fulham's two fellow Respect Fair Play entrants had mixed fortunes. BK Häcken needed a 93rd-minute Mattias Östberg equaliser to avoid defeat against UN Käerjéng 97 in Luxembourg, while Aalesunds FK conceded an early goal at home to tournament newcomers Neath FC but recovered to win 4-1. Neath were one of five new names in the competition and only one, Paksi SE of Hungary, tasted victory, prevailing 1-0 at UE Santa Coloma through Gábor Vayer's 15th-minute goal.

Another of the new faces, FC Milsami Orhei, succumbed 2-0 at FC Dinamo Tbilisi. Dinamo were the only team in action with a European trophy to their name – having lifted the 1981 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup – and they prevailed through goals from Nika Kvekveskiri and Irakli Lekvtadze. Ferencvárosi TC, meanwhile, the 1975 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup runners-up and UEFA Champions League group stage participants in 1995/96, enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 win against Ulisses FC in Budapest. György Jozsi, Mark Otten and substitute Felipe were the scorers.

The night's biggest victory came in Belgrade where FK Rad put six unanswered goals past SP Tre Penne of San Marino, who lost their captain Manuel Francesconi to a red card shortly after the restart. Tromso IL recorded the most impressive away result, meanwhile, 5-0 at FC Daugava Daugavpils.

Finally, the honour of scoring the first goal of the 2010/11 UEFA Europa League fell to Igor Voronkov whose 11th-minute strike earned FC Minsk a 1-1 draw at Olimpik-Şüvälan PFK. The second-leg matches will take place on 7 July.



http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=1648245.html?rss=1648245+Fulham+win+as+2010/11+campaign+gets+under+way (http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=1648245.html?rss=1648245+Fulham+win+as+2010/11+campaign+gets+under+way)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:01:16 AM
 
Fulham 3 NSI Runavik 0: match report
Read a full match report of Fulham and NSI Runavik in the Europa League first qualifying round first leg at Craven Cottage on Thursday 30 June 2011.

(http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01935/andy-johnson_1935026c.jpg)
On target: Fulham striker Andy Johnson scored the London club's third goal in a comfortable victory
Photo: GETTY IMAGES


Fulham took their first step towards further Europa League success with a comfortable victory against Faroese minnows NSI Runavik in Martin Jol's first match at the helm.

Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson scored the all-important goals at Craven Cottage as the west Londoners look to repeat their run to the final in 2010.

While a further 22 matches still standing between them and another appearance in the finale, Fulham already seem to have dispatched NSI with a clinical display in the first leg of their first qualifying round clash.

Heading into the tie, recently-appointed former Tottenham manager Jol sprang something of a surprise by naming the strongest possible starting line-up.

The Dutchman had hinted he would blood in youngsters during the early rounds but named a side packed with experience.

Murphy captained Fulham and the likes of Brede Hangeland, Bobby Zamora and Duff were included in the starting line-up.

The home side started strongly and within the opening minute Johnson came close to breaking the deadlock, but Helgi Petersen blocked well after neat build-up play by Murphy and Zamora.

The Cottagers continued to dominate the opening exchanges, although they struggled to get out of second gear and past NSI's backline.

Zamora attempted a neat header on the quarter-hour mark as Fulham looked to break the deadlock, while Johnson's pace continued to threaten the Faroese side's defence.

Duff was unfortunate not to net the game's first goal in the 23rd minute, twisting and turning on the edge of the box before unleashing a right-footed drive that went just wide of the far post.

Despite Fulham's dominance, Justinus Hansen almost gave NSI a shock lead with a thumping effort that caught Mark Schwarzer unawares and bounced just wide.

The long-range drive seemed to spur Jol's side into life and - after some nice play down the left-hand side - Duff thumped home from inside the 18-yard box.

The Republic of Ireland international's 33rd-minute goal did not open the floodgates, although NSI goalkeeper Andras Gango was forced to tip over smartly from a curling free-kick from Zamora on the stroke of half-time.

Fulham returned from the break reinvigorated and the visitors were forced to deal with a barrage of attacks from the offset.

Gango palmed away efforts from Johnson, Hangeland and Zamora shortly after the restart, before the latter and Duff blazed wide.

Despite NSI's resilience, however, the home support did not have to wait long for a second goal after Petersen upended Simon Davies in the box, allowing skipper Murphy to coolly slot home from the penalty spot.

Gango was called into action again moments later, with Johnson forcing the Hungary-born goalkeeper into a fine save.
However, the NSI goalkeeper could do nothing about the Cottagers' third goal as Johnson wriggled free in the box and angled a shot into the bottom left-hand corner.

The 30-year-old saw another effort hit the bar shortly after, before Jol rang the changes in a bid to freshen his side up - handing a debut to former Liverpool man Lauri Dalla Valle.

Murphy attempted a speculative effort in a last bid to get the 14,910 fans on their feet again but Fulham were restricted to a three-goal advantage heading into next week's second leg.



http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8609864/Fulham-3-NSI-Runavik-0-match-report.html? (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8609864/Fulham-3-NSI-Runavik-0-match-report.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:02:40 AM
 
JOL: JOB NOT DONE YET


Fulham manager Martin Jol insisted there was still plenty to do after his side saw off Faroese minnows NSI Runavik 3-0 in the first leg of their Europa League first qualifying round tie on Thursday evening.

Goals from Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson earned the hosts a convincing victory at Craven Cottage to seemingly set them on course for the second qualifying round.

A further 22 matches remain if they want to repeat their 2010 heroics of making the final, but the west Londoners look in a strong position heading into next week's second leg at NSI.

The triumph was also the perfect start to recently-appointed manager Jol's tenure, but the former Tottenham boss was not getting carried away.

"If I say [it is job done], you will tell everyone I said the job was done so I will say it's a good score," he said.

"We started off brightly the first five minutes and then it was difficult to find the spare man up front.

"The second half was better. If there was no possibility to play it up to Andy or Bobby [Zamora] you have to play down the flanks and the second half was better."

Fulham dominated the game from start to finish and Jol admitted the only disappointing aspect of the evening was that they did not win by five or six goals, especially after naming the strongest possible starting line-up.

He had hinted that he would blood in youngsters during the early rounds but named Danny Murphy as skipper, while also picking the likes of Brede Hangeland, Bobby Zamora and Damien Duff.

Jol may deploy some youngsters for next week's away leg after the 3-0 win, but quashed fears over the detrimental effect of the long journey.

"If we were playing on Sunday, for example, it would be a problem, but we don't have another game for a week," he said.

"We will use a principle of tapering off, so we will meet again on Sunday - maybe Monday."

He added: "Bobby Zamora is fit but, of course, he is not completely fit.

"But I think 80 per cent of the players are not completely fit.

"But to be match fit now it will take a couple more weeks.

"It is possible that we may use some youngsters for the second leg."

Thursday night's game marked the start of an 11-month season for Jol and his troops, which some fear could see them struggle in the Barclays Premier League.

Some have also questioned the logic in starting the competitive season so early, but Jol took a philosophical view of it all.

"Yes [it is early] but on the other hand all the other teams will play their first friendly game soon," he said.

"You have to approach it as a serious game but if you play a friendly game you do that after six or seven days and that's exactly what we did today so I don't think it has a big difference."



http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/fulham/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/06/30/SOCCER_Fulham_Quotes.html (http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/fulham/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/06/30/SOCCER_Fulham_Quotes.html)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:03:51 AM
 
Breaking Through
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/DallaValle/General1.jpg)

Teenage striker Lauri Dalla Valle was one of the happiest people in London on Thursday evening after making his Fulham debut as a second-half substitute in the UEFA Europa League First Qualifying Round victory over NSI Runavik.

The 19-year-old came off the bench to replace Bobby Zamora after 78 minutes in front of a large crowd for a match in June, and impressed with some purposeful running and positive play.

"I enjoyed it a lot," he beamed. "It was a good crowd and it was nice to get on today. I was hoping for it, of course, before the game, and naturally I'm really happy to have got on.

"I've been training with the First Team since I've been back and I thought I'd been working hard and doing well, so I thought I might have a chance, and it happened, so I'm feeling really positive and happy about it."

The Finnish-born forward has been a Fulham player just under a year having joined the Club as part of the deal that took Paul Konchesky to Liverpool last summer. And after a season of impressive performances in the Development Squad, and the departure of out of contract strikers Diomansy Kamara and Eddie Johnson, 2011/12 could be a big campaign for him.

"I knew it could be a big season for me this year so I made sure I kept myself fit over the summer," he detailed. "And at the moment I'm feeling really good, really sharp, fit and ready for whenever I'm needed."

And Dalla Valle is hoping that the combination of a new Manager with an open mind towards his playing personnel, and the additional fixtures provided by the UEFA Europa League will present him with the opportunities to prove himself as a First Team player.

"The Manager is talking a lot to all the players in training, including the younger ones," he explained. "It gives younger players a lift when he speaks to you and gives you advice, so it's all very positive.

"When I was at Liverpool I played in the Europa League, so I think it's a very good competition. If we progress to the Group Stage, which of course I hope we do, then it gives us the chance of more games throughout the season. That can only give young players like myself even more of a chance to show what we can do."

A clinical and hardworking striker, the youngster could certainly be a valuable asset for Martin Jol's Fulham, and the player himself is determined to work as hard as possible in order to make his mark.

"I've set my target for this season to be involved with the First Team in games as much as possible, to work hard, and improve myself over the whole season," he concluded. "I want to keep moving forward."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/DallaValleDebut.aspx?#ixzz1QpovadA7 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/DallaValleDebut.aspx?#ixzz1QpovadA7)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:05:18 AM
 
Jol warns against complacency
Fulham boss happy after straightforward European win

Fulham manager Martin Jol does not want his inherited squad to become complacent after their 3-0 win over Faroese minnows NSI Runavik in the first leg of their Europa League first qualifying round tie.

Goals from Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnsonearned the hosts a convincing victory at Craven Cottage to seemingly set them on course for the second qualifying round.

A further 22 matches remain if they want to repeat their 2010 heroics of making the final, but the West Londoners look in a strong position heading into next week's second leg at NSI.

The triumph was also the perfect start to recently-appointed manager Jol's tenure, but the former Tottenham boss was not getting carried away.

"If I say [it is job done], you will tell everyone I said the job was done so I will say it's a good score," he said.

Fears

"We started off brightly the first five minutes and then it was difficult to find the spare man up front.

"The second half was better. If there was no possibility to play it up to Andy or Bobby [Zamora] you have to play down the flanks and the second half was better."

Fulham dominated the game from start to finish and Jol admitted the only disappointing aspect of the evening was that they did not win by five or six goals, especially after naming the strongest possible starting line-up.

He had hinted that he would blood in youngsters during the early rounds but named Danny Murphy as skipper, while also picking the likes of Brede Hangeland, Bobby Zamora and Damien Duff.

Jol may deploy some youngsters for next week's away leg after the 3-0 win, but quashed fears over the detrimental effect of the long journey.

Principle

"If we were playing on Sunday, for example, it would be a problem, but we don't have another game for a week," he said.

"We will use a principle of tapering off, so we will meet again on Sunday - maybe Monday."

He added: "Bobby Zamora is fit but, of course, he is not completely fit.

"But I think 80 per cent of the players are not completely fit. But to be match fit now it will take a couple more weeks.

"It is possible that we may use some youngsters for the second leg."



http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_7012357,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_7012357,00.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:07:03 AM
 
Fulham move for winger Gradel and defender Ridgewell

Fulham manager Martin Jol wants to add Leeds winger Max Gradel to his Europa League squad.

West Ham are also chasing the 23-year-old, who is out of contract at the end of next season.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/06/28/article-2009249-0C8773FD000005DC-591_468x286.jpg)
Take it to the Max: Gradel scored 18 goals last season for Leeds

Gradel, 23, joined Leeds from Leicester in January for £200,000 but is valued at £2m.

Jol is also ready to rival his former club West Brom for Birmingham defender Liam Ridgewell, 26.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2010069/Fulham-Gradel-Ridgewell.html#ixzz1QppgYiN4 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2010069/Fulham-Gradel-Ridgewell.html#ixzz1QppgYiN4)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:08:12 AM
 
Jol's Runavik Reaction
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/Jol/ConfSmile1.jpg)

Speaking after his first game as Fulham Manager, Martin Jol looked back on the UEFA Europa League qualification first leg against NSI Runavik.

Fulham produced a dominant display on Thursday evening to record a comfortable victory over their Faroese opponents.

Despite the visitors putting up stern defensive resistance, the Whites bided their time and eventually the breakthrough came from the boot of Damien Duff just after the half-hour mark.

"We started off brightly the first five minutes and then it was difficult to find the spare man up front," assessed Jol after the match.

The visitors adopted a defensive 4-5-1 formation and often compressed the space in their defensive third, making it difficult for the Whites to find any openings. However, following the break Fulham were able to find a way through with Andrew Johnson and Bobby Zamora particularly influential.

"The second-half was better," Jol explained. "If there was no possibility to play it up to Andy or Bobby you have to play down the flanks and the second-half was better."

"Bobby Zamora is fit but, of course, he is not completely fit. But I think 80 per cent of the players are not completely fit. But to be match fit now it will take a couple more weeks. It is possible that we may use some youngsters for the second leg."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/JolRunavikHomeReaction.aspx?#ixzz1Qpq1msjO (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/JolRunavikHomeReaction.aspx?#ixzz1Qpq1msjO)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:09:25 AM
 
Fulham ease into life under Jol
by DAN on JUNE 30, 2011

As first games go, this was the perfect way for Martin Jol to start life at Fulham. It seemed somewhat odd to be watching football by the Thames before the school year has even finished and it took a while for Fulham to shake blow away the pre-season cobwebs, but goals from Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andy Johnson secured a comfortable first-leg lead over NSI Runavik.

The Faroe Islanders actually looked a well-organised and compact side. They were defensively sound, designed to restrict their more illustrious hosts and frustrated Jol's attacking ambitions for more than half an hour. Jol surprised everyone by picking what was close to his strongest available side. Mark Schwarzer started in goal, Matthew Briggs replaced Carlos Salcido at left back and Bobby Zamora and Andy Johnson were reunited up front. They started at some pace, with Johnson almost breaking the deadlock inside the first minute. A sweeping move which saw Danny Murphy feed Bobby Zamora down the left ankle of the box culminated with Johnson's clever near-post flick, but the visitors' most impressive performer, goalkeeper Andras Gango, and defender Helgi Petersen combined to keep the ball out.

There then followed plenty of pretty passing but little in the way of penetration. Damien Duff, Fulham's most expressive outlet in a rather mundane first period, came the closest as he sauntered across the penalty area, beating two defenders, and shot narrowly wide. NSI responded almost instantly, with an ambitious effort from Justinus Hansen sending a worried Schwarzer scurrying across his goalmouth.

Duff eased any lingering doubts about Fulham's superiority after 33 minutes. Briggs found Zamora on the edge of the box and, although Simon Davies failed to collect his lay-off, the ball fell kindly for Duff, who drove it with his some venom into the far corner. A slight deflection off Johnson left the otherwise excellent Gango with little chance of stopping it. Just to prove that was something of an anomaly the Faroes' goalkeeper made a terrific fingertip stop to turn over Zamora's curling free-kick minutes before the break.

After half-time, Gango was at it again. He managed to claw away a deflected Zamora drive five minutes into the second half and was also equal to efforts from Johnson and Aaron Hughes. Brede Hangeland almost doubled the Fulham lead from a corner as the NSI came under sustained pressure and the Whites did eventually get a second, courtesy of a generous penalty when Petersen was adjudged to have brought down Davies. Murphy duly dispatched the spot-kick, sending Gango the wrong way.

Gango then thwarted Johnson with a terrific reaction save, but could do nothing to prevent Fulham's third. Zamora found Johnson with a nicely threaded pass and the former Everton finished low across Gango and into the far corner. Fulham continued to press forward, with Zamora failing to get the ball out for underneath his feet as he bore down on goal and Lauri Dalla Valle somehow failing to turn Briggs' low centre into an unguarded net. Still, this was a highly satisfactory start.

FULHAM (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Baird, Briggs, Hughes, Hangeland; Etuhu (Sidwell 72), Murphy, Duff, Davies (Riise 68); Zamora (Dalla Valle 78). Subs (not used): Stockdale, Kelly, Senderos, Greening.

GOALS: Duff (31), Murphy (61), Johnson (70).

NSI RUNAVIK (4-5-1): Gango; J. Frederiksberg, Mikkelsen, Petersen, J. Joensen; Hansen, Jacobsen, Lakjuni, Mortensen (M. Olsen 86), Danielsen (A. Frederiksberg 78); K.A. Olsen (Líknargøtu 90). Subs (not used): K. Joensen, Sorensen.

BOOKED: Petersen.

REFEREE: Bernard Brugger (Austria).

ATTENDANCE: 14,190.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/06/fulham-ease-into-life-under-jol/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/06/fulham-ease-into-life-under-jol/?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:10:17 AM
 
Dalla Valle on debut
by DAN on JUNE 30, 2011

Lauri Dalla Valle says he was delighted to make his Fulham debut tonight, after coming on as a substitute in the win over NSI Runavik.

With a bit more luck, the former Liverpool striker might have even had a first goal for the club to celebrate as well.

I enjoyed it a lot. It was a good crowd and it was nice to get on today. I was hoping for it, of course, before the game, and naturally I'm really happy to have got on.

I've been training with the First Team since I've been back and I thought I'd been working hard and doing well, so I thought I might have a chance, and it happened, so I'm feeling really positive and happy about it. I knew it could be a big season for me this year so I made sure I kept myself fit over the summer. And at the moment I'm feeling really good, really sharp, fit and ready for whenever I'm needed.

The Manager is talking a lot to all the players in training, including the younger ones. It gives younger players a lift when he speaks to you and gives you advice, so it's all very positive.

When I was at Liverpool I played in the Europa League, so I think it's a very good competition. If we progress to the Group Stage, which of course I hope we do, then it gives us the chance of more games throughout the season. That can only give young players like myself even more of a chance to show what we can do.

I've set my target for this season to be involved with the First Team in games as much as possible, to work hard, and improve myself over the whole season. I want to keep moving forward.


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/06/dalla-valle-on-debut/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/06/dalla-valle-on-debut/?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:14:17 AM
 
Fulham already serving up soccer before Wimbledon ends

LONDON, June 30 (Reuters) - Fulham kicked off their season with a Europa League qualifier on Thursday at a time of year usually reserved for late drama in the tennis, a leisurely pint in a pub on the banks of the River Thames or a casual stroll on Wimbledon Common.

But the match at Craven Cottage, less than 6 km from where Maria Sharapova and Petra Kvitova were enjoying a different kind of summer success by reaching the Wimbledon final, left no doubt European club soccer is almost a never-ending year-round affair.

With Pimms and strawberries and cream still being served up among the aces at Wimbledon, Fulham's first qualifying round, first-leg match against NSI Runavik of the Faroe Islands, which they won 3-0, took place at a time when football used to be in summer hibernation.

But now, just six weeks after Porto beat Braga in last season's Europa League final in Dublin, barely a month since Barcelona beat Manchester United in the Champions League final at Wembley, and six weeks before the start of the Premier League season, European club soccer has sneaked back into the schedule.

Fulham's new manager Martin Jol, who only took over last week, had no complaints about his side's first game taking place now, but had one eye on what was going on at Wimbledon.

"I hope to get there in the next couple of days and would love to see Andy Murray win the men's title, but I think he has an almost impossible task," said the Dutchman referring to the Briton's semi-final against top-seeded Spaniard Rafa Nadal.

"I was going to go the other day but it was raining."

Coming back to the task at hand, Jol felt he needed a bigger squad if Fulham were to negotiate their way through 23 matches and win the Europa League final in Bucharest next year.

"At least 20 very good players," he smiled, although he refused to complain about the early start to the campaign.

"Most of the other clubs will be playing their first friendlies in the next few days, so it makes no difference," he said.

TWENTY FANS

Runavik, from the village of Nes on the southern tip of the island of Eysturoy, are fourth in the Faroese first division and about 20 fans from the local population of 3,800 came to see what the club's chairwoman Ragnhild Knudsen described as a "great, fun match for the club".

They gave a good account of themselves too with Runavik's shaven-headed Hungarian goalkeeper Andras Gango their man of the match and, although they will almost certainly be eliminated after next week's second leg, they were not disgraced.

Reflecting trends across the continent, Runavik have a multi-national squad with players from Ghana, Georgia, Cameroon and Hungary, but while they never stopping buzzing around in their yellow and black striped shirts, they rarely stung goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer into action.

In reality it was not much more than a pre-season warm-up for a full-strength Fulham side in front of an impressive crowd of 14,910.

To underline the fact that European club soccer is back — less than a week after the Under-21 championships ended in Denmark—the game was one of 25 being played across Europe by the game's lesser lights such as FC Honka of Finland, Qarabag FK of Azerbaijan and Tre Penne of San Marino.

Fulham, who lost the 2010 Europa League final to Atletico Madrid, qualified for this season's competition as one of three Fair Play winners meaning they began their campaign so early.

Fulham dominated from the start but only took a 1-0 lead into the break thanks to a well-taken 32nd minute curler from Damien Duff.

Gango produced the other real show of quality in the first half with a brilliant tip over the bar to deny Bobby Zamora and in the second half did well to save again from Zamora and Duff.

However, he had no chance with Danny Murphy's penalty on the hour or Andy Johnson's third for Fulham nine minutes later.

The second leg is scheduled for next Thursday in the Faroes with Fulham already looking towards a meeting with Crusaders of Northern Ireland in the second qualifying round next month.

It will still be summer but by then the novelty for the fans, if not their holiday tans, will have already worn off. (Editing by Ken Ferris; To query or comment on this story email [email protected])



http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news?slug=reu-europafulham (http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news?slug=reu-europafulham)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:15:44 AM
 
Jol pulls out of move for former Chelsea frontman

FULHAM boss Martin Jol has decided not to offer a deal to Eidur Gudjohnsen.

The former Chelsea frontman spent the second-half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage from Stoke City, making 10 appearances.

Gudjohnsen was on the verge of making the switch permanent before Mark Hughes quit the club earlier this month, leaving the 32-year-old in limbo.

But new manager Jol insists any move for the Icelandic hitman is now dead in the water.



http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/06/30/jol-pulls-out-of-move-for-former-chelsea-frontman-82029-28975053/? (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/06/30/jol-pulls-out-of-move-for-former-chelsea-frontman-82029-28975053/?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:17:25 AM
 
Martin Jol ready to give fringe players second leg roles

MARTIN Jol says there is a good chance he will field younger fringe players in the second leg of Fulham's Europa qualifying tie against NSI Runavik now they hold a three goal lead.

The new Fulham boss stopped short of declaring the tie won, but agreed it was 'more likely' he would rest some of his best players in the Faroe Islands next Thursday.

"Tomorrow you tell everybody that I said the job is done. But, it's a good score," Jol said.

"That [playing young players] is a possibility for the second leg. It's more likely, yes.

"That is the only disappointing thing - that you only score three goals, but I will forgive them because they were a bit tired. We started off brightly, then it was difficult to find a spare man up front. I think the second half was better."

Jol again refused to complain about having to begin the season when Wimbledon has not even finished.

"It is early to be playing, but on the other hand, all the other clubs will play in the next couple of days their first friendly games.

"Of course you have to approach it as a serious game....but I don't think there is a big difference."

Jol reserved praise for Damien Duff, who looked lively at times as Fulham attacked in waves.

"I guess he prefers it on the right but I thought he was giving us a dimension on the left as well," Jol said. "Every time he got the ball, he's got that extra quality.

"Years ago I wanted him for my club when I was at Spurs, and he went to Newcastle. I'm happy that he's here now."



http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/06/30/martin-jol-ready-to-give-fringe-players-second-leg-roles-64767-28975074/? (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/06/30/martin-jol-ready-to-give-fringe-players-second-leg-roles-64767-28975074/?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:18:34 AM
 
Fulham inch towards Europa League glory

In Martin Jol's first match as manager, Fulham took their first step towards further Europa League success with a comfortable victory against Faroese minnows NSI Runavik.

The end result was Fulham 3 NSI Runavik 0.

Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson scored the goals at Craven Cottage as the west Londoners look to repeat their run to the final in 2010.

While a further 22 matches still stand between them and another appearance in the finale, Fulham already seem to have dispatched NSI with a clinical display in the first leg of their first qualifying round clash.



http://itn.co.uk/sport/22749/Fulham+inch+towards+Europa+League+glory? (http://itn.co.uk/sport/22749/Fulham+inch+towards+Europa+League+glory?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:19:26 AM
 
Order Your Retail Catalogue

Sign up now to receive the brand new summer retail catalogue for the 2011/12 season and get your hands on the latest range of Fulham FC retail products. Once registered your catalogue will be sent out.

Please note that all Season Ticket Holders and Members will automatically receive the catalogue with their Fultime magazine.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/RetailCatalogue.aspx?#ixzz1Qpss9naS (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/RetailCatalogue.aspx?#ixzz1Qpss9naS)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:20:39 AM
 
Hungarian stopper on trial at the Cottage

FULHAM are running the rule over Hungarian keeper Csaba Somogyi, Martin Jol has confirmed.

The 26-year-old, who is on the books of Budapest side Rakospalotai EAC, impressed when he went for a trial at Ajax, when the Dutchman was in charge of the Amsterdam club.

But although that came to nothing, Jol wants to take another look as he seeks cover for Mark Schwarzer and David Stockdale and the player is on trial at Craven Cottage.

"It was at Ajax he came in and the goalkeeping staff said he was a terrific keeper, but I had four goalkeepers and there was no possibility then," Jol said.



http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/06/30/hungarian-stopper-on-trial-at-the-cottage-64767-28975082/? (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/06/30/hungarian-stopper-on-trial-at-the-cottage-64767-28975082/?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:21:39 AM
 
Fulham boss not interested in Birmingham City defender

MARTIN Jol has denied rumours linking him with a move for Birmingham City defender Liam Ridgewell.

Reports today suggested the Fulham boss was interested in bringing the 26-year-old to Craven Cottage.

West Brom are also believed to be keen on the versatile defender, who is under contract with the Blues until 2013.

But Jol insists he has no intention of making a move for Ridgwell.

When asked if there was any truth in the reports, the Dutchman replied: "No." 



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/30/fulham-boss-not-interested-in-birmingham-city-defender-82029-28975072/?#ixzz1QptOrXNP (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/06/30/fulham-boss-not-interested-in-birmingham-city-defender-82029-28975072/?#ixzz1QptOrXNP)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:24:38 AM
 
Fulham 3 NSI Runavik 0: A cruise for Jol's men after 39-day rest

So, this is where playing fair gets you. Club football in June, four miles from the Wimbledon  tennis championships, on ladies semi-finals day? You cannot be serious.

Well, 'Diddy' David Hamilton seemed serious. 'It's Showtime.' he cried over the PA system and out trotted Fulham, dressed, rather aptly, in all white.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/01/article-0-0CCEBF9F00000578-991_634x435.jpg)
Cool finish: Murphy scores Fulham's second from the penalty spot

Fans at Craven Cottage must have wondered what Johnny Haynes would have made of a home kit without black shorts but the officials at the All England Club would have approved.

Fulham were starting their season 39 days after the last one ended. On May 22, it was Arsenal on the banks of the Thames, in a 2-2 draw notable for Zoltan Gera's sending-off within three minutes of coming on as a late substitute.

The red card proved to be not quite enough for the club to dodge what seemed to be UEFA's end-of-season booby prize, entry into the first qualifying round of the Europa League, via the Fair Play system.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/01/article-0-0CCEC0DD00000578-551_306x423.jpg)
Way to go: Martin Jol enjoyed a comfortable win in his first in game

Manager Mark Hughes, however, found a way to avoid a truncated break by refusing to renew his contract and Martin Jol was appointed in time for Wimbledon and headlines about Summer Jolidays.

'I was going to go to Wimbledon the other day, it was all organised, then it started to rain,' Jol said. 'I love tennis and I would love to see Andy Murray. It would be fantastic to see him win it, but I think it is almost impossible.'

Such defeatism Murray can probably do without. This was the first game back in charge of an English club for Jol. His last came in the same competition when he was Tottenham boss, a surreal tie against Getafe when the White Hart Lane crowd discovered during the first half that their popular Dutch manager was about to be sacked.

Last night, a crowd of more than 14,000 turned up in their shirt-sleeves and shades to bask in the evening sun, although there was a notable groan when four minutes added time was announced at the end.

Those who came along got to share the experience of Jol's first Fulham game, an easy win against NSI Runavik from the Faroe Islands.

Runavik is a shipping town of fewer than 4,000 people. They could have all squeezed in at the Putney End. As it was, only about 30 of them made it to London for what their part-time players were happy to bill the biggest game of their lives.

Jol was satisfied with the result, which equals Fulham's best in European football and enabled him to consider giving the players a couple of days off before they embark on next week's  voyage to the isle of Eysturoy.

He picked his strongest possible team, with Mousa Dembele injured and Clint Dempsey and Carlos Salcido on international duty.

Runavik tired and faded badly towards the end but they managed to keep  Fulham out for half an hour before  Damien Duff lashed in a left-footer on the turn from a pass by Simon Davies.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/01/article-0-0CCEC0FD00000578-729_634x419.jpg)
Picture this: Runavik fans make the most of their trip to the capital

Hungarian goalkeeper Andras Gango warmed to his role as the busiest man on the pitch, tipping over a free-kick from Bobby Zamora before half-time and saving again from the striker after the break.

Andy Johnson ought to have been awarded a penalty when he was tripped but play went on. Nobody disputed it too much and, a few minutes later, they got one anyway. Helgi Petersen hacked down Davies and Danny Murphy sent Gango the wrong way. Johnson added the third with 20 minutes left.

All in all, a decent start for the 2010 Europa League runners-up but this will be a long campaign if it develops as that one did. The final is another 21 games away, in Bucharest on May 9, by which time, minds in this part of London will be turning once again towards strawberries and cream.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2010109/Fulham-3-NSI-Runavik-0-A-cruise-Jols-men-39-day-rest.html#ixzz1QptfmAHR (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2010109/Fulham-3-NSI-Runavik-0-A-cruise-Jols-men-39-day-rest.html#ixzz1QptfmAHR)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:26:21 AM
 
FULHAM CRUISES TO VICTORY UNDER MARTIN JOL

FULHAM last night cruised to an imposing 3-0 first-leg lead in their Europa League, first qualifying round tie against NSI Runavik, but it took 33 minutes before Damien Duff broke the resistance of the Faroe Islands minnows in this lacklustre affair.

The match started like a pre-season friendly and the Premier League outfit, whose players have only recently returned to training under new manager Martin Jol, took a while to get into gear in front of a crowd of 14,910 at Craven Cottage.

Eventually Simon Davies and Bobby Zamora combined to set up Duff, whose low, deflected drive found the target.

Danny Murphy then slotted home a 60th-minute penalty, before Andrew Johnson scored a third for the hosts 10 minutes later.



http://www.express.co.uk/football/view/256117/Fulham-cruises-to-victory-under-Martin-Jol? (http://www.express.co.uk/football/view/256117/Fulham-cruises-to-victory-under-Martin-Jol?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:27:57 AM
 
FULHAM 3 NSI RUNAVIK 0: FUL SPEED AHEAD FOR MARTIN JOL'S BOYS

FULHAM 3 -- NSI RUNAVIK 0

MARTIN JOL has had car problems recently but his Fulham side ended the night in cruise control as they set out on the road to the Europa League final.

New Cottagers boss Jol's start to the new season was disrupted when he had his car towed away last week.

And dogged part-timers NSI Runavik threatened to put another spanner in the works as Fulham stalled during the first-half of last night's Europa League first-round qualifier.

But Jol's men stepped on the gas after the break in his first game in charge.

And next week's second leg should be a formality after goals from Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andy Johnson gave them a 3-0 lead to take to the Faroe Islands.

Fulham – 2010 Europa League finalists – booked their spot in this season's competition via the Fair Play League.

But their 'reward' was a return to competitive action just 39 days after their final game of last season.

Starting the new season while their Premier League rivals still had their feet up and Wimbledon was still going on a few miles away seemed more like punishment for their good behaviour than a prize.

But Jol is well up for trying to repeat the heroics of Roy Hodgson's side two seasons ago with another European adventure.

The Fulham chief named his strongest possible side and the message seemed to be, 'Let's get this tie wrapped up tonight.'

But that proved to be easier said than done against an NSI side who defended in numbers and were determined not to be embarrassed.

Fulham spent most of the first half-hour camped in NSI territory but failed to really test keeper Andras Gango.

And it was NSI who almost struck first after a rare forward raid.

Justinus Hansen almost gave NSI's 30-strong travelling band of fans something to remember when he let fly from 25 yards, only to see his speculative volley dip just wide.

Instead it was Fulham celebrating first when Duff found the bottom corner from 18 yards in the 32nd minute after being teed up by Simon Davies.

Bobby Zamora was then denied twice either side of the break by Gango.

But NSI's overworked keeper was beaten for a second time on the hour when Murphy scored from the spot after Davies was tripped in the box.

And Johnson wrapped up the win when he lashed home Fulham's third 10 minutes later after linking up with fellow striker Zamora



http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/198758/Fulham-3-NSI-Runavik-0-Ful-speed-ahead-for-Martin-Jol-s-boys/? (http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/198758/Fulham-3-NSI-Runavik-0-Ful-speed-ahead-for-Martin-Jol-s-boys/?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:30:27 AM
 
Europa League: Fulham 3 - 0 NSI Runavik - Damien Duff goal sparks Fulham win in Europa League opener

FULHAM took their first step towards further Europa League success with a comfortable victory against Faroese minnows NSI Runavik in Martin Jol's first match at the helm.
Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson netted the all-important goals at Craven Cottage last night as the west Londoners look to repeat their run to the final in 2010.

While a further 22 matches still stand between them and another appearancADVERTISEMENT

e in the finale, Fulham already seem to have dispatched NSI with a clinical display in the first leg of their first qualifying round clash.

Duff was unfortunate not to net the game's first goal in the 23rd minute, twisting and turning on the edge of the box before unleashing a right-footed drive that went just wide.

Justinus Hansen almost gave NSI a shock lead with a thumping effort that caught Mark Schwarzer unawares and bounced just wide. That seemed to spur Jol's side into life and Duff thumped home from inside the 18-yard box in the 33rd minute. After the break, Petersen upended Simon Davies in the box, allowing skipper Murphy to slot home from the penalty spot. And Johnson wriggled free in the box and angled a shot into the bottom corner for the third.

Fulham: Schwarzer, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Briggs, Davies, Murphy, Etuhu, Duff, Andrew Johnson, Zamora. Subs: Stockdale, Kelly, Sidwell, Senderos, Riise, Dalla Valle, Greening.

NSI Runavik: Gango, Jens Joensen, Mortensen, Justinus Hansen, Klaemint Olsen, Helgi Lamhauge Petersen, Lakjuni, Mikkelsen, Frederiksberg, Debes Danielsen, Christian Hogni Jacobsen. Subs: Kristian Joensen, Magnus Olsen, Liknargotu, Sorensen, Fredriksberg.

Referee: B Brugger. Attendance: 14,910



http://sport.scotsman.com/sport/Damien-Duff-goal-sparks-Fulham.6794083.jp? (http://sport.scotsman.com/sport/Damien-Duff-goal-sparks-Fulham.6794083.jp?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:32:59 AM
 
Fulham 3 - 0 NSI Runavik

Was there any doubt?

Well, maybe for a moment when the score was still level and Janus Hansen caught a glimpse of goal from afar and tried his luck. A bit wide, much to Mark Schwarzer's delight.

But that was that and Martin Jol's life at Fulham got off to a pleasant start with a 3-0 victory in the first leg of Fulham's Europa League qualifying round tie with NSI Runavik.



Damien Duff opened the scoring for Fulham in the 33rd when he slotted home from the edge of the box, finally cracking the defensive shield that NSI had desperately held onto since the start of the match.

Danny Murphy doubled the lead from the spot in the 61st after Simon Davies was fouled in the box. Andy Johnson's sliding finish gave Fulham a third shortly after.

Shots were, predictably, 21-4 in Fulham's favor and the Londoners held an even more daunting edge in corners at 14-1. Possession numbers, which I don't have handy, will be similarly tilted.

The match not only served as an introduction for Jol, but, in the 78th minute, Lauri Dalla Valle made his senior debut as well, coming on for Bobby Zamora.

Kristian was at the match and should be able to shed more light than I can from recollecting Twitter updates and goving over match reports from my office.

Still, not a bad way to start a season or, if you happened to be at the Craven Cottage, spend a summer's evening.



http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/7/1/2253351/fulham-3-0-nsi-runavik? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/7/1/2253351/fulham-3-0-nsi-runavik?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:35:00 AM
 
Jol opens with comfortable Europa win
Fulham 3 NSI Runavik 0

(http://www.independent.co.uk/multimedia/dynamic/00619/Jol-pa_619284t.jpg)
The new Fulham manager Martin Jol greets the home fans before last night's match

Fulham took the first step on a lengthy Europa League road with a comfortable 3-0 victory against the Faroese minnows NSI Runavik in Martin Jol's first match at the helm.

Fulham took the first step on a lengthy Europa League road with a comfortable 3-0 victory against the Faroese minnows NSIRunavik in Martin Jol's first match at the helm.

Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andy Johnson scored the goals at Craven Cottage as the west Londoners sought to repeat their run to the final in 2010. While a further 22 matches still stand between them and another potential appearance in the final, Fulham already seem to have dispatched NSI after a clinical, effective display in the first leg of their first qualifying-round tie.



http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/jol-opens-with-comfortable-europa-win-2305268.html? (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/jol-opens-with-comfortable-europa-win-2305268.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:35:55 AM
 
Duff hits first goal of season... and it was still only June

IT'S the beginning of a season that Damien Duff hopes will end at the European Championships in Poland and Ukraine, and last night , on the final day of June, the Fulham midfielder gave himself a good start with the first goal of the season for an English club.

Duff will certainly face tougher opponents than NSA Runavik over the course of the season, but last night's 3-0 victory against the Faroe Islands minnows at Craven Cottage can't harm the winger's confidence.

The Dubliner was part of the Fulham team which made it all the way to the Europa League final in 2010 before losing to Atletico Madrid and if he is to make it that far again, he will still be in action for the Londoners in 314 days' time.

Duff's last goal in the month of June was followed by his famous celebration in Ireland's 3-0 win against Saudi Arabia in the 2002 World Cup.

Irish Independent



http://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/duff-hits-first-goal-of-season-and-it-was-still-only-june-2810933.html? (http://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/duff-hits-first-goal-of-season-and-it-was-still-only-june-2810933.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:37:01 AM
 
JOL: WE COULD HAVE WON BY MORE

Fulham manager Martin Jol was disappointed not to net more than three goals in Thursday night's Europa League qualifier against Faroese team NSI Runavik.

The west Londoners' passage to the Europa League second qualifying round seems virtually secure after Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson scored in a comfortable 3-0 win at Craven Cottage.

However, wayward finishing and a superb performance from NSI goalkeeper Andras Gango prevented the home side ending with a scoreline that would have better reflected their dominance.

"We started off brightly the first five minutes and then it was difficult to find the spare man up front," said Jol.

"The second half was better.

"If there was no possibility to play it up to Andy or Bobby [Zamora] you have to play down the flanks and the second half was better.

"The only disappointing thing that we only scored three goals but I will forgive them because they were a bit tired.

"We have had a good week and trained hard.

"If I say [it is job done], you will tell everyone I said the job was done so I will say it's a good score."

Fulham will have to play a further 22 matches if they are to repeat their 2010 heroics, when they upset the odds to secure a place in the final against Atletico Madrid.

Tonight's game against NSI marked the start of an 11-month season for Jol and his troops, which some fear could see them struggle in the Barclays Premier League.

Some have also questioned the logic in starting the competitive season so early but Jol took a philosophical view of it all.

"Yes [it is early] but on the other hand all the other teams will play their first friendly game soon," he said.

"You have to approach it as a serious game but if you play a friendly game you do that after six or seven days and that's exactly what we did [last night] so I don't think it has a big difference."

He added: "[Extra games] could be a problem but if you have 20 or more players I think you can cope with it."



http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/07/01/SOCCER_Fulham_Jol.html&TEAMHD=soccer&BID=165 (http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/07/01/SOCCER_Fulham_Jol.html&TEAMHD=soccer&BID=165)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:38:20 AM
 
Fulham Manager Martin Jol Anticipating Quiet Summer in Transfer Market

Martin Jol said he would treat his Fulham players to "a little holiday" after their 3-0 Europa League first qualifying first leg victory over NSI Runavik. Which was fitting, considering the time of year, because that is exactly what his players should have been doing rather than playing competitive football.

Jol himself might have been expected to be formulating transfer targets for his team, which, if they take the Europa League seriously, could be in for a season in excess of 60 games – even without taking into account domestic cup runs.

But he looks likely to be able to put his feet up as well this week, giving him an opportunity to indulge in his other sporting passion, tennis, after revealing there will be precious little movement of players into the club.

His predecessor Mark Hughes was interested in signing Eidur Gudjohnsen, who spent the second half of last term on loan at Craven Cottage, but when Jol was asked whether that was now dead in the water, he simply folded his arms and nodded.

Similarly when Birmingham's Liam Ridgewell was mentioned, as he has been linked with a move to the west London club, Jol merely smiled and said: "No."

So are there any players coming to Craven Cottage? In short, it seems not, because Jol is happy with who is already there.

His two strikers on Thursday night Andy Johnson and Bobby Zamora looked sharp and could have had at least a couple of goals each against the Faroe Islands outfit of NSI Runavik if it wasn't for the form of keeper Andras Gango. And afterwards Jol was effusive about that pair, as well as Mousa Dembele, the Belgian forward who is currently nursing an ankle injury.

When asked whether there was any transfer news in the offing to make fans happy, Jol said: "I think we will make them happy anyway. We have a good squad here. Andy and Bobby were good tonight, they are both terrific players. And you cannot forget Mousa. He is a very good player, a good talent. I am happy I can pick two players from them."

He is right: Hughes did leave him with a decent squad, especially when Clint Dempsey ("he was last season's most productive player," said Jol) and Mexican left-back Carlos Salcido return from international duty.

So it seems that it will be quiet at Fulham this summer, to match the suburban surroundings of their Motspur Park training ground. The only man who Jol would say may make an arrival at Craven Cottage is Hungarian goalkeeper Csaba Somogyi, who the manager already knew about while at Ajax.

Jol said: "He came in when I was at Ajax and the goalkeeping staff said he was terrific, but I had four keepers. But I thought he is worth a look here."



http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/07/01/fulham-manager-martin-jol-anticipating-quiet-summer-in-transfer/? (http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/07/01/fulham-manager-martin-jol-anticipating-quiet-summer-in-transfer/?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:39:58 AM
 
Martin Jol rues wayward Fulham finishing despite win

(http://i.thisislondon.co.uk/i/pix/2011/06/Jol_Schwarzer_415.jpg)

Fulham manager Martin Jol was disappointed not to net more than three goals in last night's Europa League qualifier against Faroese team NSI Runavik.

The west Londoners' passage to the Europa League second qualifying round seems virtually secure after Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson scored in a comfortable 3-0 win at Craven Cottage.

However, wayward finishing and a superb performance from NSI goalkeeper Andras Gango prevented the home side ending with a scoreline that would have better reflected their dominance.

"We started off brightly the first five minutes and then it was difficult to find the spare man up front," said Jol.

"The second half was better. If there was no possibility to play it up to Andy or Bobby [Zamora] you have to play down the flanks and the second half was better.

"The only disappointing thing was that we only scored three goals but I will forgive them because they were a bit tired. We have had a good week and trained hard.

"If I say [it is job done], you will tell everyone I said the job was done so I will say it's a good score."

Fulham will have to play a further 22 matches if they are to repeat their 2010 heroics, when they upset the odds to secure a place in the final against Atletico Madrid.

Tonight's game against NSI marked the start of an 11-month season for Jol and his troops, which some fear could see them struggle in the Barclays Premier League.

Some have also questioned the logic in starting the competitive season so early but Jol took a philosophical view of it all.

"Yes [it is early] but on the other hand all the other teams will play their first friendly game soon," he said.

"You have to approach it as a serious game but if you play a friendly game you do that after six or seven days and that's exactly what we did [last night] so I don't think it has a big difference."

He added: "[Extra games] could be a problem but if you have 20 or more players I think you can cope with it."



http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23966276-martin-jol-rues-wayward-fulham-finishing-despite-win.do? (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23966276-martin-jol-rues-wayward-fulham-finishing-despite-win.do?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:41:07 AM
 
One down, 22 to go for new Fulham boss Jol

FULHAM took their first step towards further Europa League success with a comfortable victory against Faroese minnows NSI Runavik in Martin Jol's first match at the helm.

Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson netted the all-important goals at Craven Cottage as the west Londoners look to repeat their run to the final in 2010.

While a further 22 matches still stand between them and another appearance in the finale, Fulham already seem to have dispatched NSI with a clinical display in the first leg of their first qualifying round clash.

Jol hinted he would blood in youngsters during the early rounds but named a side packed with experience.



Read More http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/amateur-football/2011/07/01/one-down-22-to-go-for-new-fulham-boss-jol-100252-28974946/?#ixzz1QpyJQd00 (http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/amateur-football/2011/07/01/one-down-22-to-go-for-new-fulham-boss-jol-100252-28974946/?#ixzz1QpyJQd00)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:42:44 AM
 
Player Departures

Fulham Football Club can confirm that the following players have left the Club, having reached the end of their contracts.

- Zoltan Gera
- Eddie Johnson
- Diomansy Kamara
- John Pantsil
- Matthew Saunders
- Pascal Zuberbuhler

The Club would like to thank the players for their services to the Club, having played their part in some truly historic victories in recent years.  Fulham Football Club wishes each and every player the very best success for the future.



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/OutofContractPlayers.aspx#ixzz1QpygFurZ (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/June/OutofContractPlayers.aspx#ixzz1QpygFurZ)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:55:50 AM
 
A summer night by the river... To watch some football

(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/53796000/jpg/_53796961_fulham1.jpg)
Simon Davies swings in a corner as Fulham get their season off and running
under unseasonly cloudy June skies


Putney can seldom have looked better. Warmed by the early evening sunshine, office workers are heading for the bars down by the Thames. In Bishop's Park joggers and cyclists jostle for space on the riverside path whilst drifting on the breeze is the unmistakable smell of frying onions.

It's the first sign that six and half weeks before the first goal of the Premier League season will be scored, the 2011/12 season is about to kick off at Craven Cottage.

The Cottagers are about to begin their bid to qualify for the Europa League with a clash against the Faroe Islands minnows NSI - so I've headed along to find out what football in England in June is like.

PRE-MATCH
There is a distinct lack of tension at The Cottage. One bookmaker in Putney is quoting Fulham at 100/1 ON to win. After all Runavik have lost 11 of their previous 12 games in Europe.

It's time to meet some of the 50 or so yellow and black clad fans they have brought with them. It turns out that most are friends of relatives of the players and all agree that this is the biggest game in the club's history. I want to know how they all got so tanned on an island stuck half way between the Shetlands and Iceland.

The Fulham line-up is impressively strong - and so are their physiques after only a week of training. Not a beach belly in sight - how do they do that?

FIRST HALF
It's a great crowd with the Hammersmith End completely full - mind you, £10 a ticket with kids for a quid helps. You don't get that in the Premier League.

You don't get Justinus Hansen either, but the Runavik midfielder lashes a 30-yard volley just wide after 25 minutes. It's the best chance of the game so far. Surely Runavik can't ..... can they? No they can't, Damien Duff, 1-0.

HALF-TIME
Fulham's legend on the microphone, David Hamilton, has let me down for once. Not a word on the scores from the other matches in the competition.

Surely I can't be the only person wanting to know how Rad are getting on against Tre Penne? Then there's Banga versus Quarabag and IF v KR. The suspense is killing me.

SECOND HALF
Runavik's Hungarian keeper Andras Gango looks a level above the Faroes Premier League. He makes a great block to deny Andrew Johnson and then spends as much time as he can holding his head after a collision with Bobby Zamora - impressive time-wasting worthy of a higher stage.

An hour gone and it's just beginning to feel a bit, well... pre-season, when Helgi Petersen trips Simon Davies. The ref says no penalty, the linesman puts him right and Danny Murphy puts it in.

Summer or winter, I can still summon up a cliché: the plucky part-timers are running out of steam as Andrew Johnson turns to hit a third with 20 minutes to go. Martin Jol allows himself a smile.

POST-MATCH
It ends 3-0 and everyone seems happy, Fulham are all but assured a place against Crusaders of Northern Ireland in the second qualifying round, Runavik have actually recorded one of their better results away from home in Europe and those of us who have found a month with no football tough have had our fix.

Now I'm off to find out how Honka got on against Kalju.



http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/13987196.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/13987196.stm?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 08:57:22 AM
 
Jol buoyed by first game at Fulham

Martin Jol commended his side for a "bright start" to their UEFA Europa League campaign as Fulham FC marked their first game under the Dutch manager with a 3-0 win against NSÍ Runavík.

(http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/Comp_Matches/01/64/83/85/1648385_w2.jpg)
Fulham manager Martin Jol was all smiles after his side's UEFA Europa League qualifying victory against NSÍ Runavík
©Getty Images


Martin Jol commended his side for the "bright start" they made to their UEFA Europa League campaign on his first game in charge of Fulham FC, even if he felt the 3-0 first qualifying round first leg triumph against NSÍ Runavík could have been more emphatic. "The only disappointing thing was that we only scored three goals," said the Dutchman.

Jol could barely disguise his delight when he returned to the Premier League as Fulham coach last month and he was again all smiles after the west Londoners kicked off their European adventure with a comfortable win against the Faroese visitors. Goals from Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson earned the hosts a three-goal first-leg lead and the former Tottenham Hotspur FC and AFC Ajax coach was satisfied with his lot.

"If I say it is 'job done', you will tell everyone I said the job has been done so I will just say that it's a good score," said Jol. "We started off brightly in the first five minutes and then it was difficult to find the spare man up front. The second half was better. If there was no possibility to play it up to Andy Johnson or Bobby Zamora you had to play down the flanks and in the second half was better."

A pleasing victory was mitigated by missed chances that could have led to a more flattering scoreline, but Jol suggested that ring-rustiness had a part to play for a side for whom pre-season training has only just begun. "The only disappointing thing was that we only scored three goals but I will forgive them because they were tired. We had a hard week's training and the players worked very hard. Most of them are not match fit yet."

Jol shared his Craven Cottage debut with Lauri Dalla Valle, the 19-year-old who made his Fulham debut as a 78th-minute substitute and almost marked the occasion with a goal, narrowly failing to connect with a low Matthew Briggs cross. "For his age group he's a good finisher," explained Jol. "He could have scored tonight but it sends a message to the others that even if you're young, if you work hard you can get a game here."

For his part Dalla Valle was enthused by his first run-out for the club he joined from Liverpool FC as part of the deal that took Paul Konchesky to Anfield last August, as this is a competition he holds close to his heart. "The manager is talking a lot to all the players in training, including the younger ones," he said. "It gives younger players a lift when he speaks to you and gives you advice, so it's all very positive.

"When I was at Liverpool I played in the Europa League, so I think it's a very good competition. If we progress to the group stage, which of course I hope we do, then it gives us the chance of more games throughout the season. That can only give young players like myself even more of a chance to show what we can do."

Dalla Valle will be hoping for another chance to shine on 7 July when his side travel to the Faroe Islands for the return leg. The overall winners face Crusaders FC in the second qualifying round, on 14 and 21 July.



http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=1648393.html? (http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=1648393.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 09:28:43 AM
 
Jol puts Albion in driving seat for Blues ace

West Brom could be set to swoop for Birmingham defender Liam Ridgewell, after Fulham boss Martin Jol ruled himself out of the race.

The Cottagers were thought to be ready to scrap it out with Albion chief Roy Hodgson for the highly-rated 26-year-old defender, who is set to depart St Andrew's following the Blues' relegation from the Premier League.

However, when asked if he would be looking to join the Baggies in a battle to take the stopper to Craven Cottage this summer, Jol said: "No."

Therefore Hodgson, who has already snapped up Gareth McAuley and Billy Jones from Ipswich and Preston respectively as he looks to overhaul his leaky defence, could be ready to make an unchallenged bid for Ridgewell.

The former Aston Villa stopper, who has made 138 league appearances for Blues, is under contract to the club until summer 2013. But, having already allowed Craig Gardner to join Sunderland, it is unlikely they will stand in Ridgewell's way if a suitable bid comes in.



http://www.clubcall.com/west-bromwich-albion/jol-puts-albion-in-driving-seat-for-blues-ace-1233219.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/west-bromwich-albion/jol-puts-albion-in-driving-seat-for-blues-ace-1233219.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 09:29:43 AM
 
Jol denies Blues stopper swoop

Martin Jol's denied that Fulham are interested in Birmingham's Liam Ridgewell, but Hungarian keeper Csaba Somogyi has joined on trial.
The Cottagers boss was thought to be pondering a swoop for 26-year-old Ridgewell, who is set to depart St Andrew's following the Blues relegation from the Premier League at the end of last season.

However, when asked if he would be looking to fight it out with West Brom to take the stopper to Craven Cottage this summer, Jol said: "No."

The Cottagers have made one move in the market to hand 26-year-old custodian Somogyi a trial as Jol looks for quality cover for Mark Schwarzer and David Stockdale.

Jol was impressed with Somogyi when he took him on trial from Budapest side Rakospalotai EAC during his time in charge at Ajax and he could now look to take him to England.

"It was at Ajax he came in and the goalkeeping staff said he was a terrific keeper, but I had four goalkeepers and there was no possibility then," he said.



http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/jol-denies-blues-stopper-swoop-1233193.html? (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/jol-denies-blues-stopper-swoop-1233193.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 09:31:29 AM
 
Martin Jol off to winning start at Fulham with Europa League win
Football returned to Craven Cottage early last night as new manager Martin Jol made a winning start to his time at Fulham as his side dispatched NSI Runavik 3-0 in the first leg of their Europa League qualifier.

(http://img.metro.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/01/article-1309506339796-0CCE9BA100000578-897561_636x300.jpg)
Jol win: Fulham's Bobby Zamora congratulates team-mate Damien Duff on scoring the opening goal in the Europa League qualifier last night (PA)

Damian Duff netted the opener against the Faroe Islands opposition,followed by goals from Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson.

Jol wasn't entirely satisfied after the match, however,  claiming his team should have scored more goals against the lightweight opposition.

'We started off brightly the first five minutes and then it was difficult to find the spare man up front,' said Jol.

'The second half was better. If there was no possibility to play it up to Andy or Bobby (Zamora) you have to play down the flanks and the second half was better.

'The only disappointing thing is that we only scored three goals but I will forgive them because they were a bit tired.

'We have had a good week and trained hard. If I say (it is job done), you will tell everyone I said the job was done so I will say it's a good score.'

A lack of goals was attributed to the superb performance of NSI goalkeeper Andras Gango, who prevented the home side running away with proceedings.



Read more: http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/868011-martin-jol-off-to-winning-start-at-fulham-with-europa-league-win#ixzz1QqAwRJJq (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/868011-martin-jol-off-to-winning-start-at-fulham-with-europa-league-win#ixzz1QqAwRJJq)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: Lighthouse on July 01, 2011, 10:02:01 AM
Fulham are eyeing Sheffield United prospect Jordan Slew.

The Daily Mail says the £500,000 Fulham offer discussed so far is a poor reflection of his value.

He has been offered a new contract but has yet to sign it and further talks are expected over the next two days.

Slew wants to talk to Fulham though and that could be ominous in their fight to keep him.

Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 10:20:59 AM
 
Cresswell set for Ipswich
Championship club win race to sign Tranmere full-back

Skysports.com understands Ipswich Town have won the race to sign Tranmere Rovers full-back Aaron Cresswell.

The 21-year-old is out of contract at Tranmere and has turned down a new deal at Prenton Park in favour of a move to the Championship.

Cresswell made 80 appearances for Rovers after making his debut in 2008 and the League One club will be entitled to compensation.

The likes of Fulham, West Bromwich Albion, Brighton & Hove Albion, Peterborough United and Doncaster Rovers all showed an interest in Cresswell, but he has plumped for a move to Ipswich.

He is set to become Paul Jewell's fourth signing of the summer after the Town boss previously agreed deals for Michael Chopra, Ivar Ingimarsson and Nathan Ellington.


http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12874_7012679,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12874_7012679,00.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 10:50:47 AM
 
Winning Form
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Etuhu/vRunavikHome.jpg)

Dickson Etuhu was satisfied with the result on Thursday evening after Fulham achieved a 3-0 home win in the UEFA Europa League First Qualifying Round little over a week after returning to training after the summer break.

The midfielder played a starring role in the centre of the park as the Whites' class outshone the potential advantage of superior match fitness held by Faroese side NSI Runavik.

"Games like that are always difficult, because they [Runavik] had nothing to lose," he assessed. "For most of them it was the biggest game of their lives and they made it difficult for us by sitting back.

"But we always knew we would win, that we'd get a few goals. I thought maybe we weren't quite hungry enough to score more – we could have got more - but it was the first game back and we're still trying to find our feet.

"I'm sure that as the games go on we'll get sharper and next week, at their place, we'll get a couple more."

Kicking-off a new season in June is certainly not the norm, but under the charge of Martin Jol for the first time, there was no signs of anything other than total professionalism from a Fulham side that dominated possession from start to finish. And Etuhu explained that there was never any question of taking the game anything other than 100 per cent seriously.

"The gaffer made it clear to us that this wasn't to be treated as a friendly – that it was a game we had to go and win, not one where you take it easy," he stated. "Common sense tells you that anyway, but I thought we went about it the right way. We devised the right game plan in training and it worked out really well."

Indeed, it seems that Jol has already made an impression on his team in his short time at the Club, creating an unmistakable mood of positivity and a feel-good factor at Fulham.

"He's great," exclaimed Dickson. "He's already put confidence in the lads. It's early days yet, so he's not tried to change anything too drastically, he's just getting to know the players at the moment, and the morale around the place is really upbeat.

"These are exciting times for Fulham and it really feels like we're getting to the next level now."

That mood of excitement was also reflected in the stands at Craven Cottage where an impressive crowd in excess of 14,000 turned out to witness what we all hope will turn out to be the first steps on another memorable European adventure.

"Every cup's important – especially this one because we did so well last time," reflected Dickson. "It'll be difficult this time because expectations will be so much higher, and teams will come and play us and take it very seriously, because now they know Fulham, and they know we're good in Europe.

"So it's good to be back involved in it, and it was so good to see so many fans out there getting excited about it again. They gave us the extra energy that we needed."

Not that the team appeared to need much more impetus, looking in great physical shape so soon after the summer break, and Etuhu revealed that the team's coaches have devised a special training programme to be in-tune with restarting competitive football so early.

"The Manager and the Coaching Staff have made sure the training so far has been right for us, because they know it's very early to start playing games," he said.

"But it was good for me to play for 75 minutes tonight, because towards the end of last season I didn't get to play as much, so I needed that run-out for my fitness, like all the lads did after the break.

"But we all enjoyed it."




Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/EtuhuRunavikReaction.aspx?#ixzz1QqUxvYSx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/EtuhuRunavikReaction.aspx?#ixzz1QqUxvYSx)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 12:17:04 PM
 
Zoltan Gera expected to sign two-year West Bromwich Albion deal

ZOLTAN Gera is edging closer towards a move to West Bromwich Albion.

I understand the Hungarian has verbally agreed to join Albion and, subject to a medical, should sign a deal during the next 48 hours.

Gera flew to Birmingham on Thursday night and is expected to sign a two-year deal, with a 12-month option in the club's favour.



Read More http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/west-bromwich-albion-fc/west-bromwich-albion-fc-news/2011/07/01/zoltan-gera-expected-to-sign-two-year-west-bromwich-albion-deal-97319-28976926/?#ixzz1QqqhmAIR (http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/west-bromwich-albion-fc/west-bromwich-albion-fc-news/2011/07/01/zoltan-gera-expected-to-sign-two-year-west-bromwich-albion-deal-97319-28976926/?#ixzz1QqqhmAIR)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 12:19:45 PM
 
Fulham should have won by more against NSI Runavik in Europa League qualifier, says manager Martin Jol
Fulham manager Martin Jol was disappointed not to score more than three goals in Thursday night's Europa League qualifier against Faroese team NSI Runavik.

(http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01935/fulham_1935236c.jpg)
In control: Fulham dominate their Faroese opponents
Photo: ACTION IMAGES


The west Londoners' passage to the Europa League second qualifying round seems virtually secure after Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson scored in a comfortable 3-0 win at Craven Cottage.

However, wayward finishing and a superb performance from NSI goalkeeper Andras Gango prevented the home side ending with a scoreline that would have better reflected their dominance.

"We started off brightly the first five minutes and then it was difficult to find the spare man up front," said Jol. "The second half was better.

"If there was no possibility to play it up to Andy or Bobby [Zamora] you have to play down the flanks and the second half was better.

"The only disappointing thing that we only scored three goals but I will forgive them because they were a bit tired.

"We have had a good week and trained hard.

"If I say [it is job done], you will tell everyone I said the job was done so I will say it's a good score."

Fulham will have to play a further 22 matches if they are to repeat their 2010 heroics, when they upset the odds to secure a place in the final against Atletico Madrid.

Thursday night's game against NSI marked the start of an 11-month season for Jol and his troops, which some fear could see them struggle in the Premier League.

Some have also questioned the logic in starting the competitive season so early but Jol took a philosophical view of it all.

"Yes [it is early] but on the other hand all the other teams will play their first friendly game soon," he said.

"You have to approach it as a serious game but if you play a friendly game you do that after six or seven days and that's exactly what we did [last night] so I don't think it has a big difference."

He added: "[Extra games] could be a problem but if you have 20 or more players I think you can cope with it."



http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8610582/Fulham-should-have-won-by-more-against-NSI-Runavik-in-Europa-League-qualifier-says-manager-Martin-Jol.html? (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8610582/Fulham-should-have-won-by-more-against-NSI-Runavik-in-Europa-League-qualifier-says-manager-Martin-Jol.html?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 12:21:05 PM
 
Fulham boss Jol blames fatigue for lack of goals

Martin Jol blamed tiredness for his side scoring only three goals against Faroe Islands part-timers NSI Runavik at Craven Cottage last night.

It was Jol's first competitive match in charge as goals from Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson gave his side a win and although they dominated, Jol was disappointed they did not score more.

"The only disappointing thing that we only scored three goals but I will forgive them because they were a bit tired," he said. "We have had a good week and trained hard.

"If I say it is job done, you will tell everyone I said the job was done so I will say it's a good score."

If his side are to make the final, they must play another 22 matches, but Jol is comfortable he has the squad to handle such a large amount of matches.

" Extra games could be a problem but if you have 20 or more players I think you can cope with it," he said.

"Yes it is early but on the other hand all the other teams will play their first friendly game soon.

"You have to approach it as a serious game but if you play a friendly game you do that after six or seven days and that's exactly what we did last night so I don't think it has a big difference."



http://www.london24.com:80/sport/fulham/fulham_boss_jol_blames_fatigue_for_lack_of_goals_1_950121? (http://www.london24.com:80/sport/fulham/fulham_boss_jol_blames_fatigue_for_lack_of_goals_1_950121?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 12:27:17 PM
 
Friday Fives - Bobby Zamora

Fulham and England forward chooses five of the best.

Every Friday there will be a special Friday Fives feature, with a different football ace picking their all-time dream five-a-side team.

So, this week the England and Fulham man makes his choice- can you guess who he will pick?

And if you think your own five-a-side team could go some way to replicating those greats, then make sure you get signed up to The FA Umbro Fives now, the only competition that gives you the chance to be the official five-a-side champions of England at Wembley Stadium.

The competition offers the best teams in the country the chance to play in the national final at Wembley Stadium and follow in the footsteps of some football legends.

So, enter your team in The FA Umbro Fives now by clicking here and you could get your chance to play in the Wembley Stadium Final.

And remember, the next star to feature in Friday Fives will be online on Friday 1 July...



http://www.thefa.com/TheFACup/FACompetitions/TheFAUmbroFives/NewsAndFeatures/2011/Bobby-Zamora-Friday-Fives? (http://www.thefa.com/TheFACup/FACompetitions/TheFAUmbroFives/NewsAndFeatures/2011/Bobby-Zamora-Friday-Fives?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 01:35:46 PM
 
MARK HUGHES' SECRET DIARY: UNCENSORED, UNINHIBITED, UNEMPLOYED
The heartfelt journal of an out-of-work manager

(http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_magazine_big_picture/mark_hughes.jpg)
All managers keep score. Only the great ones put it in writing

With Mark Hughes missing out on the Aston Villa and Chelsea jobs and currently unemployed after walking out on Fulham, talkSPORT has gained exclusive access* to this personal diary. Here is the entry dated 1 July 2011...

6.30am: Alarm went off, jumped out of bed ready for another day's football training and transfer dealing. Then woke up, realised it was all a dream, pulled the covers over my head and went back to sleep.

8am: Got up and checked talksport.co.uk to see if I'm being linked with any managerial vacancies. I'm not and my heart sank further when I saw my old club Fulham had beaten NSI Runavik 3-0 in the Europa League. I thought NSI was National Savings and Investments, which reminds me... I must pop to the Post Office and send some more speculative CVs.

9.25am: Just remembered today is the first day I can officially speak to other clubs. The phone hasn't rung yet, so I'm just going to watch a little bit of Jeremy Kyle before I get talking to all those clubs I imagine are lining me up as their next manager.

11am: What's this? I'm in the news! 'Future unclear for TJ Hughes' it says. Don't they know my name is Mark?

11.15am: Turns out TJ Hughes is a department store that's gone into administration and, as a result, sadly lots of people are facing an uncertain future. I know the feeling.

1pm: Log on to Facebook to see if any football chairmen have poked me, but waste an hour looking at other people's pictures. Fergie looks so smug in that photo of him and De Gea – can't believe he liked his own post and commented 'lol'.

3pm: Get a tweet from Mark Bowen asking if I've accepted the Bury job. No idea what he's talking about.

3.15pm: False alarm. A quick Google search reveals that Bury have signed a 24-year-old centre-half named Mark Hughes. Apparently they've got a new manager, Richie Barker – never heard of him. How do these people get jobs?!

4pm: Deal or No Deal is on. Thinking of applying to be a contestant because otherwise, by the looks of it, I won't be doing any deals this summer. Mind you, if Noel Edmonds could find work again, anything's possible.

6pm: I see on talksport.co.uk that Fulham have released a range of Michael Jackson memorabilia called 'Michael at the Cottage'. Makes me glad to be out of it, although I quite like the look of the statue tee – good for sleeping in.

8pm: Brilliant! I'm over the moon! I knew today was going to be a good day and, sure enough, I've found an episode of Friends on E4 that I've never seen before. Wonders never cease.

10pm: Bedtime. One last check of my email and it looks promising. 'An Advance Fee From Russia' is the subject title and it seems I've been chosen by an oil tycoon to help him out with a bit of business. Hoping it's that Usmanov fella at Arsenal. Looks like I'm going to have the last laugh, Roman!

*We've made it up, basically.



http://www.talksport.co.uk/magazine/features/2011-07-01/mark-hughes-secret-diary-uncensored-uninhibited-unemployed? (http://www.talksport.co.uk/magazine/features/2011-07-01/mark-hughes-secret-diary-uncensored-uninhibited-unemployed?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 01:40:11 PM
 
LEAGUE THE PRIORITY FOR FULHAM

Fulham captain Danny Murphy admits the Barclays Premier League remains the main focus despite the Cottagers beginning their Europa League adventure on Thursday night.

Damien Duff, Murphy and Andrew Johnson netted the all-important goals as recently-appointed manager Martin Jol enjoyed a 3-0 victory over Faroese minnows NSI Runavik in his first match at the helm.

Fulham have seemingly already dispatched NSI with a clinical display in the first leg of their first qualifying round clash, but a further 22 matches remain if they are to repeat the heroics of 2010 and make the final.

Thursday night's game also marked the start of an 11-month season for Jol and his men, which some fear could see them struggle for form and fitness in the Premier League.

Murphy admits competing in Europe has the potential to have a detrimental effect on their domestic campaign, although he insists the Cottagers will always put league success first.

"I think last time we did it - if I remember correctly - we put ourselves in quite a safe position (in the league) quite early on," he said.

"We were never ever in any trouble and I think the problems come if you are trying to fight a relegation battle.

"Or like last season where there were 10 teams up until probably the last month of the season fighting week-in, week-out.

"If you're trying to play European games as well then it could be problematic but let's hope we're not in that position.

"The squad is as healthy as it has been in a long time in terms of quality. We are lacking a few numbers - that's true - but they know that upstairs and they will be addressing it.

"But we've got to be careful not to get too focused on the Europa even though that is the focus at the moment, if you know what I mean?

"The Premier League is your bread and butter and the last thing you want to be doing is losing silly games and points because you're trying to progress in this competition.

"It is a fine balance but the manager gets paid big bucks for (making decisions like this)."

After seeing off NSI with relative ease at Craven Cottage, senior players like Murphy could be rested for next week's jaunt to the Faroe Islands.

And while the 34-year-old midfielder admits that progression is not yet a done deal, he expects Jol to blood a few youngsters in the second leg.

"It is a difficult one at 3-0," he said.

"If it was five than it would probably be a little bit easier.

"I would expect one or two of the younger lads to play maybe. Of course you need a spine [of senior figures] but the difference when you play away is that it can be a bit of a dodgy pitch, a bit of a different atmosphere and so on.

"It can only take one mistake and you're a goal down after 10 minutes and all of a sudden some of the younger lads might be like 'what is going on?' so you have to be a bit careful.

"Whatever team he plays, let's be honest, we should be comfortable with a 3-0 lead. They're not particularly good and as the game went on we should have wrapped it up more really.

"It will be used as a fitness exercise I imagine and I don't know whether he will take everyone or not. He will obviously be having a think about that over the next few days."



http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/07/01/SOCCER_Fulham_Nightlead.html (http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/07/01/SOCCER_Fulham_Nightlead.html)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 03:08:01 PM
 
Murphy: Fulham have to be on their guard in second leg

Fulham skipper Danny Murphy has urged caution ahead of his side's Europa First Qualifying round second leg clash against NSI Runavik when the two face off in the Faroe Islands next Thursday.

The Cottagers go into the tie three goals up as strikes from Damien Duff, Danny Murphy and Andrew Johnson ensured a comfortable victory in west London yesterday evening.

However Murphy concedes progression is not yet assured against a side who he describes as 'not particularly good'.

"It is a difficult one at 3-0," he said. "If it was five than it would probably be a little bit easier.

"I would expect one or two of the younger lads to play maybe. Of course you need a spine of senior figures but the difference when you play away is that it can be a bit of a dodgy pitch, a bit of a different atmosphere and so on.

"It can only take one mistake and you're a goal down after 10 minutes and all of a sudden some of the younger lads might be like 'what is going on?' so you have to be a bit careful.

"Whatever team he plays, let's be honest, we should be comfortable with a 3-0 lead. They're not particularly good and as the game went on we should have wrapped it up more really.

"It will be used as a fitness exercise I imagine and I don't know whether he (manager Martin Jol) will take everyone or not. He will obviously be having a think about that over the next few days."



http://www.london24.com:80/sport/fulham/murphy_fulham_have_to_be_on_their_guard_in_second_leg_1_950497? (http://www.london24.com:80/sport/fulham/murphy_fulham_have_to_be_on_their_guard_in_second_leg_1_950497?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 04:25:13 PM
 
Dalla Valle delight at Cottage debut
Fulham - Lauri Dalle-Valle happy with first appearance in Europa League

Fulham starlet Lauri Dalla Valle was thrilled to make his first senior appearance for the club last night.

The Finnish teenager made a second-half substitute appearance for the Cottagers in the Europa League against NSI Runavik, replacing Bobby Zamora late-on and providing a clear attacking threat for the Cottagers.

"I enjoyed it a lot. It was a good crowd and it was nice to get on today. I was hoping for it, of course, before the game, and naturally I'm really happy to have got on," he told the official Fulham website.

"I've been training with the First Team since I've been back and I thought I'd been working hard and doing well, so I thought I might have a chance, and it happened, so I'm feeling really positive and happy about it."

A product of the Liverpool academy, Dalla Valla moved to Craven Cottage as part of the deal that took Paul Konchesky to Anfield, and has impressed in the club's development squad thus far during his time in west London.



http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/dalla-valle-delight-at-cottage-debut? (http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/dalla-valle-delight-at-cottage-debut?)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 04:26:19 PM
 
Leeds Winger Linked!
Transfer speculation continues to grow and every day it`s now a race t the newsagents to see who the tabloid press have linked our club with.

This morning, if the rumours are to be believed, Martin Jol is interested in bringing the exiting Leeds United winger, Max Gradel, to Craven Cottage.

Rated in the £2 million bracket, Gradel, at twenty-three years of age, is also wanted by West Ham United, the question being does he see his future in East or West London?



Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=245925#ixzz1QrrRYGeB (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=245925#ixzz1QrrRYGeB)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 04:27:09 PM
 
Fulham 3 NSI Runavik 0
Only thirty-nine days after our season ended Fulham were back in action last night.

Having qualified for the Europa League, via the Fair Play League, we started our qualification campaign against the minnows form the Faroe Islands, NSI Runavik.

Martin Jol, in his first competitive game since taking over from Mark Hughes, selected a strong starting eleven, the only absentees being those still away on international duty - Carlos Salcido and Clint Dempsey, plus the injured Moussa Dembele.

With reduced admission prices, 14,910 were enticed through the Craven Cottage turnstiles to see Fulham register a 3-0 win against opposition they knew very little about.

The first of the three goals came in the 33rd minute when Damien Duff collected a ball from Simon Davies, before hitting home a low shot from the edge of the area.

Unfortunately, Fulham couldn`t edge a second before the break but the fifteen minute intervention allowed Martin Jol to up the ante and Fulham came out stronger in the second half and looked more purposeful.

The lead was doubled just past the hour mark when Simon Davies was adjudged to have been tripped in the box and Danny Murphy coolly slotted home from the penalty spot.

The third came with twenty minutes to go when Andrew Johnson, the subject of much transfer speculation this summer, produced a neat shot on the turn, from twelve yards, to put Fulham firmly in the driving seat for the second leg, a fixture whereby Martin Jol may well field a few youngsters.

Football is back and doesn`t it feel great!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=245923#ixzz1QrrbuLsr (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=245923#ixzz1QrrbuLsr)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: WhiteJC on July 01, 2011, 04:28:55 PM
 
Europa Highlights

http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/FulhamvRunavikHighlights.aspx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/FulhamvRunavikHighlights.aspx)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (01/07/11)...
Post by: White Noise on July 01, 2011, 04:38:11 PM

http://www.potomacsoccerwire.com/news/458/17077 (http://www.potomacsoccerwire.com/news/458/17077)



Virginia-bred Moravek duo making progress in Fulham FC's youth academy


30 Jun, 2011

By Charles Boehm

(http://www.potomacsoccerwire.com/dl/William%20-%20Fulham%20FC%20Academy.JPG)

Winchester, Va. natives William and Michael Moravek recently concluded their first season in the youth system of English Premier League side Fulham FC, and have been invited to remain in the program for the 2011-12 campaign.

The two brothers and their parents, Bill and Cheryl, relocated from Virginia to south London at the beginning of the year when William was offered a spot in Fulham's highly-regarded academy, while his younger sibling Michael enrolled in the pre-academy development program.

Despite the challenges posed by a midseason arrival, cultural adjustments and a rough welcome from some of his fellow prospects in the extremely competitive system, William's performances earned positive reviews from the coaching staff and he will continue his development with at least another year at Fulham.

Despite the Moraveks' short tenure, this was far from assured: The pursuit of academy spots at top-flight clubs is nearly as competitive as at the senior level, with many young prospects routinely dropped at the end of the season.

"It has been quite an adjustment of course," Bill Moravek told Potomac Soccer Wire earlier this month. "Coming in mid-year with kids that have been in the club for a while, and the same for school – and being from a different country is not easy.

"The amount of football is so much more than in the USA that it has taken time to adjust to the workload. But they have both done remarkably well and are thriving in the professional environment."

According to his father, William has played some 25 matches since arriving in London, along with four training sessions per week. He was selected to represent the club's 2002-birth-year squad at a major international tournament in Holland and Germany at the end of the season.

"They actually fly out together as a club to the tournaments and parent involvement is very much limited. These tournaments can have as many as a couple thousand people watching the games with people playing music, wearing face paint – very much like a world cup atmosphere, but for kids," explained Bill Moravek. "It's a good test to see how players deal with fans and pressure – part of the development for possible professional life in the future."

William and the rest of Fulham's '02 team flew to Venlo, Holland to face off against their counterparts from elite European clubs like AC Milan, Sparta Prague, Sparta Rotterdam and Schalke 04.

The English side reached the tourney's semifinals before bowing out 1-0 to German side Borussia Mönchengladbach, who went on to defeat AC Milan 3-1 in the final. Scoring three goals and playing a variety of roles in attack, midfield and defense – part of the club's holistic development philosophy –William was named as one of Fulham's top performers in the competition.

More importantly, the trip provided the youngsters with a true taste of life as professional players.

"It was the first time away from home for all of them. To be able to travel to a different country to play against top pro academies in a tournament representing one of the top academies in England is amazing," said his father. "Traveling together as a team by plane, staying in a hotel as team, doing everything together as a group at the age of 8-9 is truly a unique experience."

Meanwhile, Michael has been playing for Fulham at the U-7 level, including two tournaments closer to home in England.

The family will return to the United States for a few weeks this summer before Fulham's preparations for the new season begin on August 13.

[ + Click here to read PSW's previous coverage of the Moraveks' Fulham adventure ]