http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/203253/Fulham-and-West-Ham-in-hunt-for-Stephen-McManus/ (http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/203253/Fulham-and-West-Ham-in-hunt-for-Stephen-McManus/)
FULHAM AND WEST HAM IN HUNT FOR STEPHEN MCMANUS
FULHAM and West Ham are eyeing £1.5m-rated Middlesbrough defender Stephen McManus.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2019453/Danny-Murphy-backs-Fulhams-experienced-players.html (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2019453/Danny-Murphy-backs-Fulhams-experienced-players.html)
Murphy's money on dad's army as Fulham look to extend European adventure
By Laura Williamson
Danny Murphy insists Fulham's golden oldies can again help them prosper in Europe this season.
New Fulham manager Martin Jol wants to reduce the average age of the squad and has brought in youngsters such as Swiss and Czech Under 21 internationals Pajtim Kasami and Marcel Gecov and Hungarian goalkeeper Csaba Somogyi, 26.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/27/article-0-0D04389B00000578-970_468x286.jpg)
Age is no barrier: Danny Murphy is one of several experienced players at Fulham
But captain Murphy, 34, believes the experience of players such as Damien Duff, Simon Davies and Clint Dempsey has guided Fulham to one of the most prosperous spells in the club's history.
The midfielder said: 'People talk about the fact we've got this ageing squad.
'You do need to put fresh legs in but the club's had the most successful time in our history in the last few seasons and it's because of the experience we've got in the team.
'We wouldn't have got to the Europa League final (in 2010) without it.'
It is 10 years since Murphy won the Uefa Cup with Liverpool but he believes he still has another two seasons in him.
He added: 'I think the way I play helps me have longevity. I'm not someone who goes mad running around the pitch kicking people.
'I'll never hide, sometimes to my own detriment, but I do hunt the ball down.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2019453/Danny-Murphy-backs-Fulhams-experienced-players.html#ixzz1TMMa5uya (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2019453/Danny-Murphy-backs-Fulhams-experienced-players.html#ixzz1TMMa5uya)
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/203260/Kid-Pajtim-Kasami-hoping-for-Split-decision/ (http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/203260/Kid-Pajtim-Kasami-hoping-for-Split-decision/)
KID PAJTIM KASAMI HOPING FOR SPLIT DECISION
FULHAM manager Martin Jol plans to throw new signing Pajtim Kasami straight into tonight's Europa League clash in Croatia.
The highly-rated 19-year-old midfielder joined from Italian side Palermo this week in a four-year deal.
And if his paperwork can be pushed though in time, he will play a part in tonight's third qualifying round first leg against RNK Split.
"He is a great talent and there were a few other clubs – big clubs as well – after him," said Jol.
"It was nice to snatch him from other clubs' grasp.
"He is 19 but, on the other hand, he played more than 20 matches for Palermo in Serie A.
"He was probably the youngest player there that played so many games, so I think he can play in our team now.
"He will play a big part this season."
The Switzerland Under-21 international is likely to appear alongside fellow debutant Marcel Gecov, who joined from Slovan Liberec last week.
Meanwhile, Fulham keeper David Stockdale has also completed his loan move to Ipswich.
"I am happy the Stockdale situation has been concluded," said Dutchman Jol.
"Getting the clause inserted was the only matter, so we can recall him if necessary."
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/07/27/duo-set-for-fulham-debuts-82029-29132905/ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/07/27/duo-set-for-fulham-debuts-82029-29132905/)
Duo set for Fulham debuts
By Jacob Murtagh
MARTIN Jol could hand debuts to Marcel Gecov and Pajtim Kasami for tomorrow's Europa League qualifying clash.
The Fulham boss bolstered his squad with the duo this week, with Kasami set to join Gecov in the squad if the club can sort out the paperwork in time.
Meanwhile, keeper Csaba Somogyi is included for the first time since his sumer switch to Craven Cottage, replacing David Stockdale as back-up to Mark Schwarzer.
But Clint Dempsey and Moussa Dembele haven't travelled to Croatia.
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/07/27/duo-set-for-fulham-debuts-82029-29132905/#ixzz1TMNe2KSS (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/07/27/duo-set-for-fulham-debuts-82029-29132905/#ixzz1TMNe2KSS)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_7064553,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_7064553,00.html)
Jol hails new addition
Cottagers boss expecting big things from Kasami
(http://img.skysports.com/11/07/660x350/pajtimkasami_2626738.jpg)
Jol: Excited by the capture of one of Serie A's brightest young talents
Fulham manager Martin Jol has expressed his delight at fighting off a host of clubs to secure youngster Pajtim Kasami's signature.
The 19-year-old joined from Serie A club Palermo this week, signing a four-year deal with the Craven Cottage outfit in the process.
Jol accepts many Premier League fans will be unaware of the teenage talent, although he is of the firm belief that will change this season.
Kasami has emerged as one of Serie A's brightest talents and the Dutch tactician knows the club have a quality youngster on their hands.
"Not everybody in England will know [how highly thought of he is]," explained Jol.
"He is a great talent and there were a few other clubs - big clubs as well - after him. It was nice to snatch him from other clubs' grasp.
"He is 19 but, on the other hand, he played more than 20 matches for Palermo in Serie A.
"He was probably the youngest player there that played so many games so I think he can play in our team now. He will play a big part this season."
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/07/squad-announced-for-split/ (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/07/squad-announced-for-split/)
Squad Announced For Split
No team news as yet (although Jol says himself he doesn't rotate very much) but the two new signings Kasami and Gecov could both make their debuts in tomorrows game against RNK Split and are joined by new reserve keeper Somogyi, although barring an injury to Schwarzer he is very unlikely to feature. Academy graduates Briggs and Frei also travel, retaining their places amongst the first team pros after impressing in their appearances in the Europa League. As far as injuries go Davies has recovered from his knock to rejoin the squad but Dembele and Dempsey, who returned to training late due to injury and rest respectively, aren't available although they are expected to be fit for the home leg.
The 19 man squad travelling to Croatia is:
Schwarzer, Baird, Hangeland, Senderos, Hughes, JA Riise, Etuhu, Davies, Murphy, Sidwell, BH Riise, Briggs, Zamora, Johnson, Somogyi, Kelly, Kasami, Frei, Gecov
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/SplitTrainingPhotosAway.aspx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/SplitTrainingPhotosAway.aspx)
Split Training Photos
[...]
THE TWOHUNDREDPERCENT PREMIER LEAGUE REVIEW: FULHAM
It has, in general terms, been a summer of poor career decisions but, in football terms, if there was to be a winner for this particular award over the last three months, it would be difficult to argue against the winner of said award being Mark Hughes. Hughes departed Craven Cottage at the start of the summer, according to common belief, in full anticipation of landing the then-vacant managerial position at Aston Villa, only for Villa to decide that he wasn't the man for them and award the position to Alex McLeish instead. Time will tell whether Villa made the right decision regarding McLeish. Fulham, meanwhile, appointed Martin Jol as their manager and quietly got on with the job of preparing for their tenth consecutive season in the Premier League.
It's worth pausing a moment to consider what an achievement this is. In 1997, Fulham were in the bottom division of the Football League. Such a lengthy stay in the Premier League hasn't been without its occasional close shaves, but Fulham are still there, merely getting on with the job of being many peoples second favourite team. Roy Hodgson took them to the final of the UEFA Cup in 2010 before being – arguably unwisely – poached by Liverpool, but Hughes continued the good work and took the club to eighth place finish at the end of last season. Moreover, the UEFA Fair Play rankings offered them something that managed slip from the grasp of some considerably bigger clubs: a place in this year's Europa League.
This did, of course, mean an early start for the club this season. Fulham, uniquely amongst English clubs, started their competitive season at the start of July, and whilst aggregate wins against Nes Soknar Itrottarfelag (from the Faroe Islands) and Crusaders (from Northern Ireland) saw the team playing, at times, like a bear awakening from a period in hibernation, they did at least get through both of their ties played so far with a degree of comfort. And while other clubs may be prone to groaning at the overwrought nature of the modern Europa League, this early start may even be to Fulham's advantage in a couple of weeks time when the Premier League begins. Friendlies can only tell you so much about a club's pre-season state. Fulham have already played four genuine, bona fide competitive matches.
The appointment of Martin Jol was a telling one. Just as Fulham often seem to attract a lot of praise and tacit support from neutrals, so is Jol a popular coach. His departure from Tottenham Hotspur in 2007 was greeted with considerable dismay by a sizeable proportion of Spurs supporters, and it is likely that he will receive a warm welcome when he returns to White Hart Lane next season. Moreover, Jol's teams have a reputation for attractive football, and it seems unlikely that there will be too much of the football of paranoia that has occasionally seemed to grip the smaller clubs of the Premier League in recent years. Add to that heady mix Craven Cottage, which, in spite of the faintly ludicrous Michael Jackson that stands outside of it, remains the most pleasing enclosure to visit in the Premier League, and you have a popular manager playing attractive football for a popular club in the best ground in the division.Not bad at all, one might rationalise.
Of course, not everything in the world of Fulham is completely rosy. They are still hopelessly over-dependent upon the benevolence of Mohammed Al-Fayed, and are currently £190m in debt. The overwhelming majority of this debt is owed to Al-Fayed in the form of interest-free loans, but Fulham are still paying £4m per year in interest on their debts. Al-Fayed has stuck with the club for a considerable period of time, but he won't be there forever and he isn't getting any younger, either – he turned eighty-two years old earlier this year. Al-Fayed has made noises in recent times about making the club financially self-supportive, but with wages at 69% of annual turn-over and only £10m per year coming in from commercial activities, how this might be achieved without significant cost-cutting is open to question. It is to be hoped that he is already working towards securing the long-term future of a club that he seems to care very deeply about.
Perhaps with this in mind, it is Unsurprising that this has been a quiet summer in the transfer market for the club so far. The arrival of the Macedonian-born Swiss under-21 international from Palermo, Pajtim Kasami, was for an undisclosed fee, but it seems unlikely that they spent a fortune on him, whist the arrival at Craven Cottage of John Arne Riise from AS Roma on a free transfer seems to demonstrate both the power of fraternal relations – Riise's brother already plays for the club – and the continuation of the club's recent canny eye for a seasoned pro. Meanwhile, reserve goalkeeper David Stockdale was persuaded to sign a new contract for the club and promptly left the club for a long term loan period at Ipswich Town. Perhaps, however, the question should be asked of exactly how much immediate rebuilding Fulham need. There is, running through the spine of their team, a seam of quality and experience that many other Premier League clubs would be delighted to take on. The likes of Mark Schwarzer, Danny Murphy, Bobby Zamora, Clint Dempsey and Simon Davies are solid professionals, who have been there, seen it and done it.
These players, however, will, like Al-Fayed, will not last forever and will all need replacing in time. Fulham may, in view of this, find that greater investment in younger players will prove to be to their benefit in the fullness of time. For next season, however, this is not necessarily a major concern for the supporters of the club, who will begin the league season optimistic that they can at the very least get close to matching their achievements from last season. It is in the cups, however, that Fulham supporters may look for a hit of pure adrenaline next season. Whilst Premier League consolidation will, of course, remain the core aim for the season ahead, this is a club that has never won a major cup competition. In one hundred and thirty-two years, Fulham have managed just one runners-up spot in the FA Cup, in 1975, and the Europa League final of two years ago.
Perhaps another run to the final of a European competition may prove to be just beyond them (although, of course, perhaps it won't be), but Fulham supporters may certainly wonder whether a Wembley final will necessarily be beyond them next season, and they could look to the example of Stoke City from last season for a textbook example of how a club can, even in this cynical age in which Premier League survival means everything, be invigorated from top to bottom by appearing in a major cup final and having a big day in the spotlight. A tradition that produced such names as Johnny Haynes, Alan Mullery and George Cohen still runs through the veins of Fulham Football Club. A day out at Wembley would be a fitting appendix to such a heritage.
Fulham FC has changed over the last decade or so, of that there can be little doubt, and there can be even less doubt that the largesse of their owner has been largely responsible for this. There remains an element of doubt over how the club can remain sustainable should anything to happen to Mr Al-Fayed and annual losses of £17m (which were posted earlier this year) cannot continue indefinitely, but for now the supporters seem to be merely enjoying what are amongst the greatest days in the history of their club, and this is understandable. In addition to this – although we could be wrong, we could always be wrong – they seem to have employed a manager who is the right fit for the club. If they can get their finances on track and start bringing through younger players of the same calibre as the warhorses that currently punctuate their first team squad, there is no reason why Fulham shouldn't still be thriving in another ten years' time. The over-dependency on one patron, however, remains a potentially dark cloud on their horizon.
http://www.twohundredpercent.net/?p=14099 (http://www.twohundredpercent.net/?p=14099)
RNK Split v Fulham – Great 100/30 Bet On Offer
Fulham have eased through the first two rounds of this seasons Europa League qualifying stages, but tonight they face their toughest test to date. Their opponents are RNK Split who have also been impressive in their first two matches.
Fulham have won three and drawn one of their four games so far, scoring 10 goals and conceding just once. As you would expect they are strong favourites to claim another win, but their best price is 1/2 (1.50) @ Sportingbet and Boylesports and does not offer great appeal.
An interesting statistic ahead of the game is that Fulham have drawn eight of their 19 away European games, a result that would surely please manager Martin Jol. Bet365 @ 100/30 (4.33) are offering the best price on the game ending in a draw tonight.
RNK Split play in the Croatian Premier League and finished third last season. They have played two games in this years Europa League, winning them both, beating Domzale 5-2 on aggregate. For them to win again tonight Corals are offering 9/2 (5.50), but Bet365 are offering a far better price of 6/1 (7.0).
A tricky away tie for Fulham, and one in which they will want to perform well. Avoiding defeat may be the priority tonight and the price available on the draw does offer some value, value that we are prepared to take.
Recommended bet. Match To Be Drawn @ 100/30 (4.33) with Bet365.
http://bettinglatest.com/rnk-split-v-fulham-great-10030-bet-on-offer/17918? (http://bettinglatest.com/rnk-split-v-fulham-great-10030-bet-on-offer/17918?)
Pantsil to make Leicester City debut against Real Madrid
Ghana defender John Pantsil will make his Leicester City debut on Saturday against Real Madrid after receiving his work permit, GHANAsoccernet.com can exclusively reveal.
The right-back had his permit cleared hours before Leicester's 1-1 draw with Kettering Town at the Elgoods Brewery Arena on Tuesday.
He finalized an agreement with the Foxes until 2014 last Friday.
The 30-year-old arrives at King Power Stadium after leaving Fulham at the end of his contract in June and becomes Sven-Goran Eriksson's eighth signing this summer.
Pantsil has won nearly 70 caps for the Black Stars and has over 100 Premier League appearances to his name from spells with West Ham United and Fulham.
He made 91 appearances in all competitions during three years with the Cottagers and played every game during the club's run to the UEFA Europa League Final in 2010.
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/pantsil-to-make-leicester-city-debut-against-real-madrid/? (http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/pantsil-to-make-leicester-city-debut-against-real-madrid/?)
Oxford look at former Chelsea and Fulham player
Joe Anderson 21, who is a midfield player who can play left back was on trial last night against Brackley Town.
Joe who was released by Lincoln City in May started out in Chelsea's youth team 2005-06. In 2006 he finished his youth development at Fulham and was loaned out to Woking and Lincoln City.
Woking 14 app 1 goal (loan)
incoln 23 app (loan)
incoln 15 app
Read more: http://www.oxford.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=248652#ixzz1TOJq3Hh2 (http://www.oxford.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=248652#ixzz1TOJq3Hh2)
Murphy left cold by RNK tie
Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy admits it is hard to get excited about Thursday's Europa League third-qualifying-round tie at RNK Split.
The 34-year-old won the competition a decade ago with Liverpool but faces a first leg tie against Croatian minnows Split, who finished third in the top flight last season after successive promotions from the fourth tier.
Murphy was quick to admit that such matches are difficult to get excited about and knows that he has become a little robotic in his approach to Europa League matches.
"It is not so much the early round, it's just playing in Europe," he said.
"We played in Europe a few years ago and it became that way. If it was new and the first time I had done it in 10 years then it might be a bit more exciting.
"But it is a job at the end of the day really, to get a job done, the result and get away and on with the next one.
"Hopefully we can get away with no casualties or injuries, so if there is a lack of excitement about it forgive me.
"But at this stage it is still a job that needs doing rather than one you get excited about.
"Let's be honest, up until now - or even now - the quality or knowledge of the opposition is limited.
"It's not like you're playing in front of 40,000 or 60,000 at a Shakhtar Donetsk or Juventus. It is what it is.
"It is not as exciting so you've just got to get the job done."
While RNK Split have excelled in the domestic game, Murphy believes the fact the Reds have to play away from their Park Mladezi Stadium home could help the visitors' cause.
The first-leg tie will be played 12 miles away at NK Dugopolje's Stadion Hrvatski Vitezovi and Murphy believes the neutral territory could prove beneficial to the Barclays Premier League outfit.
"I've only just found out that this is not their actual stadium," he added.
"Time will tell but I think that is a benefit for us because obviously if you're playing at a ground they're used to playing in all the time it is a proper a away game.
"But this is more of a neutral pitch, which I think will benefit us more than them.
"The plastic one [at Crusaders] was difficult because we were not used to playing on it.
"We avoided the early banana skin there and hopefully we will get the experience of training in the stadium, which does help. It really does help us prepare."
http://www.football365.com/fulham/7064903/? (http://www.football365.com/fulham/7064903/?)
Jewell admits gamble over new keeper
The 25-year-old signed from Fulham on Tuesday and just hours later impressed during the abandoned friendly against Colchester United.
But due to a 24-hour release clause in his contract, Stockdale could leave Portman Road at any time this season.
Jewell said: "That is obviously a bit of a risk we are taking but he is a quality goalkeeper."
The Town boss was also quick to reiterate that he wanted Marton Fulop to remain at the club, even though Stockdale seems set to start the season as the number one.
Jewell said: "We like that type of competition throughout the team."
Stockdale impressed during his bow at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, making one fantastic save to deny Anthony Wordsworth.
http://www.greenun24.co.uk/ipswich-town/jewell_admits_gamble_over_new_keeper_1_977298? (http://www.greenun24.co.uk/ipswich-town/jewell_admits_gamble_over_new_keeper_1_977298?)
Europa Team News(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/Jol/EuropaConf1.jpg)
Fulham arrived in Split on Wednesday afternoon, ahead of their UEFA Europa League qualifier against RNK Split, with a couple of new additions to the squad.
Recent signings Pajtim Kasami and Marcel Gecov both travelled with the squad and Martin Jol is hoping that both will be able to feature on Thursday evening and add to the already impressive team spirit in the squad.
"If we can keep it [the team spirit] like that it would be good and hopefully add a few little things of course," said Jol on Wednesday. "I think things are going well, we've settled in well. At this Club there's a good bunch of players, experienced players so the only thing we add now is a couple of youngsters to lower the average age of the group."
At just 19 years of age, Pajtim Kasami fits into the youth bracket and Jol is certainly pleased with his latest capture.
"He's a great talent," the Manager said. "There were a few other big clubs after him but it was nice to snatch him from other clubs.
"He's 19 years old but on the other hand he played over 20 matches for the first team at Palermo and he was probably one of the youngest players playing there. So I think he can play in our team and play a big part this season."
In terms of player availability for Thursday's first-leg, Jol has a near full squad to choose from, with first-teamers Clint Dempsey and Mousa Dembele staying in London.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/JolRNKAwayPreview.aspx?#ixzz1TOKing95 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/JolRNKAwayPreview.aspx?#ixzz1TOKing95)
Game Preview - RNK Split (a)
It's amazing how many parallels can be drawn between seemingly distant teams. The meteoric rise of RNK Split from their respective Croatian fourth tier would make way for some joyously reminiscent themes when told to any Fulham fan, and, it's that steely determination that tonight's opponents possess that will most likely provide a humbling stumbling block.
RNK Split aren't, admittedly, overly distinguished outside of their home country and you'd be hard pushed to find an average punter who could offer you any kind of relevancy related to the side who reign from the aptly named city of Split. Aptly named, of course, because RNK aren't the only team to reside from the aforementioned city, with Stoke's Europa opponents Hadjuk sharing the territory; though with the reward of far more splendour. RNK's neighbours have been far more successful over the course of Croatian football history, but the side known affectionately as 'The Worker's Club' will see this as the most impeccable of opportunities to place themselves on the proverbial map.
Our opponents started their Europa League campaign with reasonable furore, beating the Slovenian side NK Domzale both home and away, taking an aggregate scoreline of 5-2 in their favour. In the Croatian League, RNK have notched up three straight first place finishes and rounded off their inaugural First Division season with a quite respectable third place finish, which of course will eventually lead them to England's green and pleasant land, and perhaps more appropriately, Craven Cottage.
Fulham have yet to show any signs of real weakness in early season form, the only low point being a suffocatingly drab 0-0 draw in the Faroe Islands. Crusaders of Northern Ireland were defeated with an almost unnerving ease and with a pleasant degree of fluency that Martin Jol will surely want to see more of. Bobby Zamora has found his form early on and even with attacking intent, Hughes, Senderos, Hangeland and co look as assured as you'd ever expect them to be.
Martin Jol has moved early to give details of the squad he has flown out to Croatia, where his team will train and play on a neutral pitch twelve miles from RNK Split's real home ground. Yet again, Dempsey and Dembele will not take part, but Jol is clearly excited at the possibility of new signing Pajtim Kasami making his début in a white shirt. The signing from Palermo has flown out, and given the completion of paperwork, is free to play. Marcel Gecov is also in Croatia and could well play alongside his fellow new signing.
Amid all the potential excitement of a new Europa League journey and some fresh blood to complement it, though, captain Danny Murphy has had his input on what he considers to be a quite dull and monotonous stage of the season: "Hopefully we can get away with no casualties or injuries, so if there is a lack of excitement about it forgive me.
"But at this stage it is still a job that needs doing rather than one you get excited about."
Well, at least he wants to win.
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/7/28/2299794/game-preview-rnk-split-a? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/7/28/2299794/game-preview-rnk-split-a?)
Fulham expected to ease past Europa League new-boys NK Split
Finalists two years ago, Fulham should have too much pedigree for Europa League debutants NK Split.
Fulham continue their quest to make the group stage of the 2011-12 Europa League this evening with a first-leg, third-round qualifier against NK Split in Croatia.
The Cottagers started their Europa League campaign with a 3-0 win over RSI Runavik on 30th June, following up with a 0-0 draw against the same opponents a week later.
Their performance in the second round was equally as emphatic, with a 3-1 away win over Crusaders preceding a 4-0 thumping of the Welsh side at Craven Cottage.
A quick glance at bwin's football market suggests the Lilywhites' progress to the final qualification round will be equally serene, with Fulham to advance to the play-offs priced at 1/100.
Meanwhile, odds of a Fulham win this evening are priced at 11/25, with an NK Split win priced at 24/1 and a draw available at 29/10.
Split are making their debut in the Europa League this year and defeat on the opening weekend of the Croatian League suggests their European adventure will be brief.
Fulham, meanwhile, reached the final of the competition two years ago and will be confident of making it through to the group stages at the very least.
Given two of Fulham's last four Europa League games have contained four goals or more, the best bet could be on there to be more than 3.5 goals this evening.
With odds of 11/5, this bet would secure punters £80 if they used the £25 free bet available to them for signing up to a bwin account.
A safer alternative would be on there being more than 2.5 goals in the game, which is priced at 83/100.
One other option would be to bet in the half-time/full-time result market on a draw/Fulham win at odds of 17/5.
This looks worth a punt based on the fact that NK Split conceded just seven goals in the first half of their domestic league matches last season but shipped 15 after the interval.
http://bwinbetting.com/fulham-expected-ease-europa-league-new-boys-nk-split,4928.html? (http://bwinbetting.com/fulham-expected-ease-europa-league-new-boys-nk-split,4928.html?)
Yankey Visits the Cottage
Former Fulham Ladies player Rachel Yankey made a return to Craven Cottage to celebrate the success of the Aspire 2 Move Project on Saturday, 23rd July.
Speaking to fulhamfc.com, Yankey was clearly impressed with the achievements of the Aspire 2 Move project and was pleased to visit the Cottage once again.
"It was great to come back to Craven Cottage on Saturday," Yankey explained. "I remember the stadium well since we played a fixture there many years ago; Fulham Ladies v Chelsea Ladies - which took place after the men's fixture.
"The project [Aspire 2 Move] has touched the lives of so many kids. There was one particular girl on the course that took the opportunity to go to Cornwall to a completely new environment. Instead of sitting around and thinking of things to do on her estate, she grabbed that opportunity which has played a small part in changing her life and giving her confidence.
"Whist I was at Fulham, I remember some of the work we carried out within the local community. I remember working at Fulham Cross School and it was good to see that some pupils from Fulham Cross were involved in this project also.
"What Fulham does well is getting the community involved and making sure it is a community club. The Club is supportive and offers programmes to many local people, providing opportunities to learn about Fulham and for people to appreciate how the Club is run and what the Foundation does."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/YankeyVisitstheCottage.aspx?#ixzz1TPLVnf5W (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/YankeyVisitstheCottage.aspx?#ixzz1TPLVnf5W)
Every Respect(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/murphy/ConfMic1.jpg)
Fulham Captain Danny Murphy will be treating Thursday evening's opponents, RNK Split, with every respect as the Whites look to get one step closer to UEFA Europa League qualification.
Fulham's pre-season period has consisted of a series of qualification matches for the Europe League, rather than the usual run of pre-season friendlies – something that, according to Murphy, could be of benefit to the Whites.
"The difference is that now you're playing for something and you also get to work hard on your attacking play, creating chances and making chances," Murphy told fulhamfc.com.
"We'll treat them with every respect – watch the videos, have a team-talk and get on with it really.
"The fact that we came back early and have been active for a while, at least two weeks longer than most other teams, has got to be of benefit. The only negative side could be further down the line, if you qualify for the group stages and play every Thursday/Sunday, there could be a fatigue factor. That just means the squad has to be used more which is why we're trying to make additions – as we've done in the last week."
Fulham's previous run to the final of the 2009/10 UEFA Europa League undoubtedly holds many fond memories for the fans and players alike, but Murphy was keen to emphasis the need to maintain perspective for the forthcoming season.
"Two years ago we had a fantastic journey and nearly won it - that did give us a taste for it," he explained. "But you have to be realistic; we're at very early stages. No one will forget what happened two years ago and it's going to be very difficult to repeat that. The Premier League is getting stronger and stronger each year and that's got to be the priority."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/MurphyRNKPreview.aspx#ixzz1TPLlLbIj (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/July/MurphyRNKPreview.aspx#ixzz1TPLlLbIj)
Kasami and Gecov set to make debuts
Fulham's two recent signings Pajtim Kasami and Marcel Gecov could make their debuts in tonight's Europa League tie in Croatia.
Both men have travelled with Martin Jol's squad for the 3rd round qualifying tie, but Clint Dempsey and Mousa Dembele won't play any part after being left behind in London.
Speaking about the addition of Kasami who only joined the club on Monday from Italian side Palermo, Jol told the club's official website: "He's a great talent.
"There were a few other big clubs after him but it was nice to snatch him from other clubs.
"He's 19 years old but on the other hand he played over 20 matches for the first team at Palermo and he was probably one of the youngest players playing there. So I think he can play in our team and play a big part this season."
http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/kasami-and-gecov-set-to-make-debuts-1247818.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/kasami-and-gecov-set-to-make-debuts-1247818.html?)
Murphy's Law: Maybe 5-3-2 is the best formation for Fulham
Thursday night saw us win 4-0 to complete a very professional job over the two legs and cruise past the Crusaders.
Pre-season is going well and despite what people have said I think we are better off playing these qualifiers in Europe rather than touring half way around the world.
Despite our good win on Thursday night, something bothered me, once again the best partnership since Hale met Pace was split up.
It started to happen at the end of last season where Aaron Hughes would be played out of position, at right back, in order for Philippe Senderos to play alongside Brede Hangeland.
Now I wasn't too excited when the Swiss captain arrived last season, anyone graduating from the Arsenal school of defending stirs more panic than excitement, however from what we have seen so far Senderos does looks like a decent defender.
Aaron Hughes and Hangeland though have been the foundation of what we have achieved other the last two-and-half-years and I want to see them playing at the centre of our defence.
The problem facing manager Martin Jol, and it is a nice problem to have, is we have three international captains for two positions.
Rather than playing any of them out of position or leaving those out completely, the solution could be to play a 5-3-2 formation. The club has had previous success with this system, although it was a while ago in the Kevin Keegan years, but I think this squad has the perfect personnel to use it now. Instead of Cookie, Morgan and Kit Symons at the heart of our defence we could have three international centre backs in Hangeland, Hughes and Senderos.
New signing John Arne Riise is a natural wing-back, as is Briggs, and I think Duff, Davis or Baird can also play in that position. We have options in midfield, a good front two and I think Demble or Dempsey would be very dangerous just off the front two, 'in the hole'.
This formation plays to the strengths of our squad allowing our best players to start and play in their preferred positions, which is always a good thing.
With the Premier league, FA and League Cup to compete in and hopefully a long run in Europe we are in for a long season.
With all these games we need to have different options in place and I think 5-3-2 can definitely be one of them.
http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/murphy_s_law_maybe_5_3_2_is_the_best_formation_for_fulham_1_977749? (http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/murphy_s_law_maybe_5_3_2_is_the_best_formation_for_fulham_1_977749?)
No home comforts for Split
Danny Murphy is hoping that Fulham can take advantage of the fact that Thursday's Europa League clash with RNK Split is being played at a neutral venue (Fulham 4/9, Split 13/2, draw 16/5 Match Prices with bet 365).
The Cottagers have already come through two rounds of the competition and are set to play the Croatian outfit in the first leg of their third-round qualifying tie at NK Dugopolje's Stadion Hrvatski Vitezovi.
The Premier League club are expected to win the tie over the two legs after taking care of NSI Runavik and Crusaders in the previous two qualification rounds.
Murphy has admitted that he is struggling to get motivated for the match and the competition as a whole, despite the fact that he won the then Uefa Cup with Liverpool a decade ago.
But the 34-year-old is still keen to win the match and feels that the home side will have no advantage during the match as they are not playing at their own Park Mladezi Stadium.
"I've only just found out that this is not their actual stadium," he said. "Time will tell but I think that is a benefit for us because obviously if you're playing at a ground they're used to playing in all the time it is a proper a away game."
The west Londoners reached the final of the competition in 2010 but lost 2-1 to Atletico Madrid after extra time but it remains to be seen whether or not new boss Martini Jol treats the event with as much respect as previous boss Roy Hodgson when the Premier League seasons gets underway (Fulham 11/8 To Finish in Top Half with bet 365).
http://football.betsplayer.com/europa-league-football/no-home-comforts-for-split/ (http://football.betsplayer.com/europa-league-football/no-home-comforts-for-split/)
RNK SPLIT v FULHAM
BIG MATCH STATS AND FACTS
Fulham have already faced Croatian teams on four occasions in the UEFA Cup, winning three times and drawing once.
The Cottagers picked up a 1-0 victory the last time they played in Split, beating RNK's rivals Hajduk on that occasion.
Fulham have scored in 24 of their 27 previous UEFA Cup/Europa League games, including qualifiers.
Duje Cop has netted two goals in two Europa league games this season for Split.
Damien Duff, Bobby Zamora, Andy Johnson and Danny Murphy have all already netted two Europa League goals this term.
RNK will be making their first ever appearance against an English team in European competition.
http://www.sportingpreview.com/football2012/11120088.php? (http://www.sportingpreview.com/football2012/11120088.php?)
Mean, Median, Mode, and Fulham
Piggybacking off Rich's post from the other day, I've been looking at the average age of our squad over the years. Remember learning mean, median, and mode, along with standard deviation from math class? Well, it's back–Fulham style!
We all know that the side is in some (not dire) need of youth, and that our stalwarts aren't just getting older, they're nearing the end of their careers–I for one would not be surprised to see Danny Murphy and Damien Duff hang up their boots after this season. Last season we often trotted out the oldest starting XI in the league.
Nonetheless we're not a side that can purchase, nor grow, a shining young talent that can make an immediate impact because of our budget. A Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere, or Javier Hernandez is not walking through that door. Currently I'd say that the only young-ish, cheap talent we've brought in, actually utilized for more than one season (sorry, Smalling and, conversely, Stockdale), and reaped the dividends off of is Clint Dempsey. And Coleman bought him 4+ years ago.
Due to our precarious position, we often have to buy players that have been around for a few years and know their stuff; and/or are on the cheap. But, as Rich wrote the other day, "we can start thinking about bringing through young players now." Whereas I was a little unsure how long Hughes would stay one year ago, I have a bizarre sense of security with Jol. So I agree with his assertion fully.
Below is the average age of each season's squad in the league. I used stats from Football-Lineups.com, and included anyone who even made a substitution appearance off the bench. This season is a bit difficult as we haven't started the league yet, so I used the info for the Europa Qualifiers. I also added Dempsey, Salcido, Gecov, and Kasami to the list. I suppose that's messing a bit with the data, but all four will presumably have a part to play in the league this season, no?
(http://cravencottagenewsround.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/average-age.jpg?w=500&h=365)
From what I recall in math class, the standard deviation gives us a better look at our data than relying solely on averages. I could be wrong, but the fact that we have the second-highest standard deviation, and most for our Top XI, is promising considering we seem to be jettisoning some of the older folks while adding youth to the squad (swapping Greening for Gecov, for example).
(http://cravencottagenewsround.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/standard-deviation.jpg?w=500&h=363)
What other things can we glean from all this data? Well, 2007-08 was a just a mess all the way around. Coleman managed in an era that allowed only 5 substitutes, so his squads were smaller and similar throughout the years. Hughes is sort of an asterisk as he was here for 10 months without major changes (hello Sanchez!), but he did get rid of some of the old-ish players (Konch, Kamz) while bringing in youth (Dembele was just 23 when signed, Kakuta 19). It would have been interesting to see what could have been under Sparky.
Which brings us back to Jol. Youth is needed, yet, just last week, according to Sky Sports Martin Jol said,
We played them in the [friendly] matches against Wimbledon and Stevenage and they're not ready yet to fill in that role as a back-up for Johnson and Zamora. They are talented but of course we need players.
Hmm. We shall see.
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/07/28/mean-median-mode-and-fulham/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/07/28/mean-median-mode-and-fulham/?)
Cottagers boss wants more striking ammunition
Fulham - Martin Jol wants back up to Bobby Zamora and Andrew Johnson
Fulham manager Martin Jol is urging the club to delve further into the transfer market if they are to compete in the higher echelons of the Barclays Premier League.
The Dutch manager has already brought in Pajtim Kasami, Marcel Gecov and John Arne Riise this summer, but has had to endure the departures of the likes of Jonathan Greening, Diomansy Kamara and Zoltan Gera.
And as a result, the former Tottenham and Ajax boss is craving some more investment at Craven Cottage. "I am happy with the business we've done so far but, as you know, we've lost six or seven players," he said.
"We need a couple of players to get a very good young squad. Up front, for example, we have Bobby Zamora and Andrew Johnson, then very young players in Lauri Dalla Valle and Marcello Trotta.
"We played them in the friendly matches against Wimbledon and Stevenage and they're not ready yet to fill into that role as a back-up for Johnson and Zamora. They are talented but of course we need players."
After Riise made his debut against Crusaders in last week's Europa League tie, Jol is hoping both Kasami and Gecov can make their debuts against RNK Split this evening.
http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/cottagers-boss-wants-more-striking-ammunition? (http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/cottagers-boss-wants-more-striking-ammunition?)
RNK Split v Fulham
EUROPA LEAGUE THIRD ROUND QUALIFYING FIRST LEG
Venue: Split, Croatia Date: Thursday, 28 July Kick-off: 1900 BST Coverage: Live text on BBC Sport website and mobiles
New signing Pajtim Kasami could be handed his Fulham debut in Thursday's Europa League third qualifying round clash against Croatian side RNK Split.
The 19-year-old joined the Cottagers from Serie A side Palermo this week and manager Martin Jol confirmed he may play a part in the first leg if the relevant paperwork goes through.
Fellow newcomer Marcel Gecov is also in line to make his debut.
But Mousa Dembele and Clint Dempsey have not travelled.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/14321308.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/14321308.stm?)
RNK Split v Fulham: Big Match Preview
Danny Murphy and Fulham know they have to get 'tough job' done
(http://www.givemefootball.com/GMF/files/1f/1f67b92b-8bf0-4e16-b76a-83d5dfb96077.jpg)
UEFA Europa League qualifying round three
Venue: Park Mladzi Stadium
Date: July 28 – Kick off – 6.30pm
TV Coverage: Setanta Ireland
TEAM NEWS
New signing Patjim Kassami could be handed his Fulham debut in tonight's Europa League third-qualifying round against RNK Split.
The 19-year-old joined the Cottagers from Serie' A outfit Palermo earlier this week and manager Martin Jol confirmed Kassami could play some part in Croatia if the paperwork goes through in time.
Fellow newcomer Marcel Gecov is also in line to make his first start, but Mousa Dembele and Clint Dempsey have not travelled.
Danny Murphy and Fulham know they have to get 'tough job' done
Fulham were comfortable 7-1 aggregate winners over Northern Irish opponents Crusaders in the last round, but they can expect a tougher challenge at NK, who finished third in the Croatian league last season – just two points behind city rivals Hajduk.
Although NK should provide more of a test for Fulham, skipper Danny Murphy admits it is hard to get excited about these sort of matches.
"It is not so much the early round, it is just playing in Europe," he said. "We played in Europe a few years ago and it became that way. If it was the first time I had done it in ten years, then it might be a bit more exciting.
http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/rnk-split-v-fulham-big-match-preview? (http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/rnk-split-v-fulham-big-match-preview?)
Murphy insists experience is vital
(http://www.setanta.com/Global/Images/sport/football/2011-2012/Premier%20League/Fulham/Murphy_Duff_Briggs_celebrate_v_Runavik.jpg)
Danny Murphy has dismissed suggestions that the Fulham squad is too old and insists that experience is the key to a successful season.
The 34-year-old captain's comments come just days after manager Martin Jol said he was trying to bring in younger players to the club.
Jol has already something started the trend with the acquisitions of Pajtim Kasami and Marcel Gecov, both Under-21 internationals.
Murphy told the Daily Mail: "People talk about the fact we've got this ageing squad.
"You do need to put fresh legs in but the club's had the most successful time in our history in the last few seasons and it's because of the experience we've got in the team.
"We wouldn't have got to the (2010)Europa League final without it."
Fulham's 2011 campaign continues tonight with a trip to Croatia to take on RNK Split in the 3rd qualifying round of the competition.
However, while Murphy is still taking the competition seriously, he says they have bigger matches on the horizon.
He added: "Hopefully we can get away with no casualties or injuries, so if there is a lack of excitement about it forgive me.
"But at this stage it is still a job that needs doing rather than one you get excited about.
"It's not like you're playing in front of 40,000 or 60,000 at a Shakhtar Donetsk or Juventus.
"It is what it is."
http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2011/07/28/Murphy-insists-experience-is-vital/gnid-102160/? (http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2011/07/28/Murphy-insists-experience-is-vital/gnid-102160/?)
RNK SPLIT v FULHAM
TEAM NEWS
Fulham's new signing Pajtim Kasami could be handed his debut in tonight's Europa League third qualifying round clash against RNK Split.
The 19-year-old joined Fulham from Serie A outfit Palermo earlier this week and manager Martin Jol has confirmed that he may play a part in Croatia if the paperwork goes through in time.
Fellow newcomer Marcel Gecov is also in line to make his debut, but Mousa Dembele and Clint Dempsey have not travelled.
Fulham Squad: Schwarzer, Baird, Hangeland, Senderos, Hughes, JA Riise, Etuhu, Davies, Murphy, Sidwell, BH Riise, Briggs, Zamora, Johnson, Somogyi, Kelly, Kasami, Frei, Gecov.
http://www.sportingpreview.com/football2012/11120097.php? (http://www.sportingpreview.com/football2012/11120097.php?)
