Stockdale Called-Up
David Stockdale has been called-up to the England squad to face Holland at Wembley on Wednesday.
The Fulham goalkeeper, who is currently on loan with Ipswich Town, joins fellow England 'keepers Robert Green and Joe Hart in the squad.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/August/StockdaleCalled-Up.aspx?#ixzz1UProUYrY (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/August/StockdaleCalled-Up.aspx?#ixzz1UProUYrY)
Hangeland on Dnipro tie
Dnipro, Fulham's Europa League play-off opponents, are going to be far from easy, as Brede Hangeland knows.
The defender, as he told the official website, is expecting a tough game against the Ukrainian side the 'toughest yet' in Fulham's Europa League qualification campaign.
Being so close to the Europa League proper though is driving him on to wanting to help Fulham make it as its a competition the club have happy memories of in recent times: 'we expect it to be the toughest tie yet.
'But that's what you have to expect the closer you get to the group stage - from which we are now just two games away from.
'Of course, we want to do well in the UEFA Europa League and we want to make sure that coming back so early hasn't been for nothing because this is a competition that we all have good memories from.'
Someone that will be familiar to all is former Spurs boss Juande Ramos; he is now in charge of Dnipro.
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=249946#ixzz1UPs6Bjf2 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=249946#ixzz1UPs6Bjf2)
£3m offered for Lens defender?
Its being reported that Fulham have launched a £3m bid for Lens' Serge Aurier.
A new right back is something Fulham could do with as cover/competition for Stephen Kelly after the departure of John Pantsil and French reports claim that Fulham have tabled the offer for the defender?
Man City had been linked, with Blackburn and Sunderland also linked with the Frenchman. Spanish clubs Malaga and Getafe are others also being sounded out as possible destinations for Aurier...
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=249947#ixzz1UPsJwBzh (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=249947#ixzz1UPsJwBzh)
BIG SAM LOOKS TO ENGLAND'S £2M MAN TO LEAD THE HAMMERS LINE
Sam Allardyce is set to bolster his attacking options and is ready to make a move with a £2m bid for Fulham front-man Andy Johnson this Thursday, according to the Daily Mirror.
The once England International is top of big Sam's wish list of strikers, that also consists of former Villa hit man John Carew.
The 30 year old currently has one year remaining on his contract at Craven Cottage, but after four years in West London, plus a disappointing campaign last season, maybe a fresh start with a new challenge is just what the former Evertonian needs... and where better than Upton Park.
Johnson knows all about playing in the Championship, and has spent eight out of his 14 professional years involved amongst England's second tier with Birmingham City and Crystal Palace.
He has had a taste of promotion to the Pem with Palace, as he displayed his best form of his career netting 28 league goals helping the Londoners break into the top flight.
If he can stay fit, and recoup his form his undoubted talent would certainly play a major role in pushing the hammers to make an instant return to the Premiership.
http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/2011/08/premiership/everton/big-sam-looks-to-englands-2m-to-lead-the-line-for-hammers?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29 (http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/2011/08/premiership/everton/big-sam-looks-to-englands-2m-to-lead-the-line-for-hammers?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29)
Three Lions call for Stockdale
England coach Fabio Capello has called up Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale for the friendly against the Netherlands on Wednesday.
The 25-year-old, who is currently on a season-long loan deal at Championship side Ipswich Town, has been picked alongside Capello's number one Joe Hart of Manchester City and West Ham's Robert Green in the provisional 30-man squad for the Wembley clash against last year's World Cup finalists.
Stockdale will hope to get a chance to impress Capello after he had to pull out of the England squad for the Euro 2012 qualifier against Switzerland in June after the fixture clashed with his wedding.
However, there was disappointment for Fulham striker Bobby Zamora, who has been omitted from the squad.
Manchester United's Danny Welbeck has been selected as striking cover instead.
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/three-lions-call-for-stockdale-1255400.html?#.Tj-CyHPHo98 (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/three-lions-call-for-stockdale-1255400.html?#.Tj-CyHPHo98)
Forest close on Verhoek
Winger expected to undergo medical in Nottingham on Monday
Sky Sports News sources understand Nottingham Forest are set to win the race to sign ADO Den Haag winger Wesley Verhoek.
Forest are thought to be closing on a deal for the Dutchman, with the 24-year-old expected to arrive in Nottingham to undergo a medical on Monday.
Verhoek has attracted interest from Fulham and Rangers this summer, with both clubs having reportedly seen bids rejected.
However, Steve McClaren's Forest now appear to have beaten them to the punch.
The winger is also being chased by top clubs in Holland, but has stated he would prefer a move abroad.
Forest boss McClaren is thought to have been alerted to Verhoek during his spell managing FC Twente in the Eredivisie.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,,11727_7087161,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,,11727_7087161,00.html?)
Fulham target Lens defender Aurier as Jol looks to shore up his defence
Fulham are on the trail of young Lens defender Serge Aurier.
The 18-year-old right back has been watched by Manchester City, Sunderland and Blackburn but Fulham boss Martin Jol is trying to bring him to Craven Cottage for £3million.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/08/07/article-0-0D5747AA00000578-828_468x392.jpg)
Wanted: Lens defender Serge Aurier has been targeted by Fulham
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2023529/Fulham-target-Lens-defender-Serge-Aurier.html#ixzz1UPtj6SQs (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2023529/Fulham-target-Lens-defender-Serge-Aurier.html#ixzz1UPtj6SQs)
Sportsmail's ultimate lowdown on Fulham ahead of the new Barclays Premier League season
Here is our must-read guide with everything you need to know about Fulham for the campaign ahead.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/08/05/article-2022487-0D4D019500000578-459_468x430.jpg)
He's a Jol-ly good fellow: Boss Martin (centre) is back in the Premier League
Last season
Premier League: 8th
FA Cup: Fifth round
League Cup: Third round
Top scorer: Clint Dempsey (13)
Under Mark Hughes, Fulham were invincible at the start of the campaign going undefeated until losing to Tottenham in mid-October...the only trouble was they drew six of their previous seven games.
And that summed up the Cottagers' season, as they went on to share the points a further 10 times, ending the year with the league's most stalemates.
Hughes was on the brink of the sack after a home defeat to West Ham before Christmas left them in the relegation zone, but a fine recovery saw them finish a highly respectable eighth.
The Welshman also guided Fulham into Europe through the fair-play league but walked out of the club at the end of the season.
Transfers In: Pajtim Kasami (Palermo, £4m), John Arne Riise (Roma, £2.4m), Dan Burn (Darlington, undisclosed), Csaba Somogyi (Rakospalotai, free), Marcel Gecov (Slovan Liberec, undisclosed)
Out: David Stockdale (Ipswich, loan), Jonathan Greening (Nottingham Forest, £670,000), Zoltan Gera (West Brom, free), Eddie Johnson (released), Diomansy Kamara (Eskisehirspor, free), Kagisho Dikgacoi (Crystal Palace, undisclosed), John Paintsil (Leicester, free)
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/08/05/article-2022487-0D4CEE7400000578-495_306x398.jpg)
That's Zamora: Fulham striker Bobby (left)
Manager: Martin Jol
The Dutchman returns for a second Premier League spell, having been in charge of Tottenham between 2004 and 2007.
Jol built a rapport with Spurs fans during his time in the top flight and has was a popular choice to take over from Hughes at Fulham.
Star man: Clint Dempsey
The American has been at the top of his game for a couple of years now and has become a firm fan favourite after breaking the club record for scoring the most Premier League goals.
A versatile player that can play in an advanced attacking role or on the flank, Dempsey was voted the club's player of the year last season.
Young gun: Matthew Briggs
Yet to get a decent run in the first team but Jol has given the 20-year-old his chance in the Europa League qualifiers and he has impressed with confident displays.
Briggs is keen to get forward and scored his first goal against Crusaders, but he still lacks a cutting edge defensively. Will likely battle Carlos Salcido for the left-back spot.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/08/05/article-2022487-0D04257D00000578-733_468x314.jpg)
Bright future: Young Cottagers left back Matthew Briggs (right)
Best Premier League finish: 7th (2008/09)
Worst Premier League finish: 17th (2007/08)
Aiming for: Europa League success. The Cottagers have a squad more than capable of staying in the top flight but look unlikely to threaten the top six. A cup run is an ideal way to spice up their season.
What to expect: Clubs have always found it difficult to maintain good league form with European progress, but Fulham have already shown in the past they can afford to attack on the continental front.
Jol will settle for mid-table if it means he can focus on the Europa League or a domestic cup run.
It's unlikely but silverware is not out of the question. Stoke and Birmingham proved last season what can be achieved on the basis of a solid team foundation (and a slice of luck.)
Sporstmail verdict: 11th
Did you know? After finishing 17th in League Two, it took just five years for Fulham to earn promotion to the Premier League in 2001 where they have been ever since.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2022487/Fulham-Premier-League-guide.html#ixzz1UPu9wed6 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2022487/Fulham-Premier-League-guide.html#ixzz1UPu9wed6)
Fulham Premier League 2011-12 team guide
With Martin Jol at the helm, it should be another stress-free season at Craven Cottage
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Clubs/Club_Home/2011/7/25/1311608864417/Martin-Jol-007.jpg)
The charismatic Martin Jol should enjoy a decent season with Fulham.
Photograph: Tony O'Brien/Action Images
The club
We are Fulham
The club of the stars, the Thames-side location, Grade II-listed relic and Madame Tussaudsesque tribute, if not always the football, make them one of west London's premier destinations (especially now Harrods has gone to the dogs).
Bonus culture or EU bailout? At £190m, the club's debt is greater than any other in the Premier League, except Manchester United and Chelsea's. So it is no wonder the fans tolerate Mohamed Al Fayed. Last season he told anyone who objected to his statue of one-time Craven Cottage attendee Michael Jackson to "go to hell". Or Stamford Bridge, as it's known in the Hammersmith End.
They'd bite your hand off if you offered them ...
Mid-table and another European sojourn. The club has been spoilt in the past three seasons, with its two best-ever finishes and a Europa League final. Not bad for a club that, stat alert, has lost more competitive matches than it has won – 1,412 v 1,396. More of the same, then, would do nicely. Oh, and that bloody statue dumped in the Thames.
Reality check
While most players were still soaking their aching limbs in an infinity pool in the Seychelles, Fulham's season started a wearisome 39 days ago with their first Europa League qualifier against NSI Runavik. Tiredness, then, will surely affect results in the Premier League's weekly grind. Also, the statue is going nowhere.
What the fans sing
"Stamford Bridge is falling down/Poor old Chelsea."
What the fans should sing
Walk Like An Egyptian (The Bangles)
One to follow on Twitter
Dickson Etuhu is @DicksonEtuhu
"Don't be afraid of the space between ur dreams and reality"
The players
This is England
Injury hampered Bobby Zamora's international chances last season and in the meantime Aston Villa's Darren Bent seems to have moved ahead of him in the England pecking order. It might have been that the only other reason for Fabio Capello to go to the Cottage was to watch David Stockdale, but he has now gone out on loan to Ipswich.
Overseas aid
John Arne Riise, or "mummy's boy", finally joined this summer having been utterly unwooed by the club's fluttering eyelashes before he signed for Liverpool in 2001, supposedly on the advice of his representative – his mother. Maybe Mrs Riise sent him to look after his little brother, Bjorn Helge, who has struggled during his two years in London.
Heart and soul or captain caveman?
Danny Murphy may be a former football columnist for a News International publication but there is no hacking out on the pitch from this cultured former Liverpool midfielder.
Teenage kicks
Perennial star of the future, Matthew Briggs, again. The youngest player in Premier League history when he made his debut aged 16 years and 65 days four years ago, the England Under-20 left‑back scored his first Fulham goal against Crusaders last month and impressed against Chelsea and Arsenal last season.
Mad, bad and dangerous to know
As you might expect from a club that was originally set up for Sunday school boys in 1879, the Cottage is home to a bunch of Goodie Two Shoes. Take Andrew Johnson's goal celebration. At first sight it might seem a rude hand gesture but he's actually making an "A" for A-Stars, a charity for young people. Unfortunately we don't see the celebration much these days.
The manager
Paid the cost to be the boss
Maarten Cornelis Jol has an impressive roster of clubs on his CV but, two Dutch cups apart, few achievements to show for it. After falling out with Spurs he had a decent time at Hamburg and Ajax, although with the latter he missed out on the title to Schteve McClaren.
Clogger or tiki-taka?
He and his teams have all the charm of his doppelganger Tony Soprano (few other managers could get away with calling Gabby Logan "darling" live on air) but too often lack the mafia boss's ruthless streak. Expect Fulham to score and concede plenty and to top the Fair Play table.
On his to-do list
Keep his two first-choice strikers, Zamora and Johnson, fit. Stop the dressing room "banter" about his brothers' names, Cock and Dick.
The advice Sepp Blatter might give to your club
"Owner hasn't endeared himself to our family by selling luxury handbag emporium. But I like that they erect statues to people who don't stop till they get enough."
Rule change
Hugh Grant is a Fulham fan and we applaud how he turned tables on evil English press so we will reward him by bigging up the nets.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/aug/08/fulham-premier-league-team-guide?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+theguardian%2Ffootball%2Frss+%28Football%29 (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/aug/08/fulham-premier-league-team-guide?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+theguardian%2Ffootball%2Frss+%28Football%29)
Steeeeeed
It's late and I should be off to bed. I'm going down to the Isle of Wight tomorrow with my boys and we've got an early-ish start. But if I don't post now it's going to be another week missed and for now I'm keen to maintain the one post a week schedule. Also one of my favourite former Fulham players is in the news this week.
Steed Malbranque is my second favourite Fulham player, second only to the mighty Gordon Davies. Signed in the build up to our first ever Premier League season Steed slotted into our team like he'd been there for years. He always looked comfortable in possession and once in control was difficult to knock off the ball. He fitted the club too. Apparently quiet and unassuming off the field but a willing worker and excellent team player when on it. It's always annoyed me when large sections of the crowd have booed him on his return. I'm all for a bit of banter when a player deserves it but it seemed to me Steed left as much down to a lack of support from the management as any desire to find greener pastures.
His spell at Spurs didn't pan out as well as he'd hoped. Signed by Martin Jol (hence the rumours of his return) and making some 50 appearances but then released by Juande Ramos. The move to Sunderland gave him more regular football for two seasons but last year it was apparent he was no longer viewed as a garaunteed starter. Steve Bruce recently confirming this by stating that whilst he had done remarkably well for the club it was probably time to move on. And so back to France and to St. Etienne, a club with a great history but one that is currently in the shadow of their great rivals (and Steed's first club) Olympic Lyons.
Steed made over 200 appearances for Fulham and scored over 40 goals. He was never as prolific anywhere else. We got to see him at his very best. The video below highlights everything I loved about him. The excellent control, the stooped run, the awareness of other players. A quick pass, a continued run, a neat finish. We beat Manchester United 3-1 at Old Trafford. I think this was the first day I began to believe we deserved to remain in the top flight.
Manchester United 1-2 Fulham Steed Malbranque (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdWloD9zM54#)
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/08/08/steeeeeed/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/08/08/steeeeeed/?)
Clemence backs Stockdale's England call-up
LEGENDARY England keeper Ray Clemence believes David Stockdale's loan move to Ipswich Town will enhance his international credentials.
The Blues number one impressed during Saturday's fantastic 3-0 win at Bristol City - making one fantastic point-blank save to deny Nicky Maynard in the second half. And with Clemence watching on at Ashton Gate, the 25-year-old's fantastic league debut was capped with his third England call-up just hours later for Wednesday's match against the Netherlands at Wembley.
Speaking exclusively to www.greenun24.co.uk (http://www.greenun24.co.uk), Clemence, who has 61 caps for his country and is still a member of Fabio Capello's backroom staff, said: "He (Stockdale) is obviously a good keeper. He needs to start playing regular football and that is what he starting to do."
And Stockdale's manager, Paul Jewell, was equally impressed: "Dave Stockdale was quality, he made a great save at a vital time and he has terrific distribution of the ball."
It was a tale of two keepers on Saturday with Stockdale a stand-out performer for Town while his opposite number, David James, gifted Michael Chopra's second to make it 3-0.
And a third custodian was on the agenda after the game when Jewell confirmed Marton Fulop had joined Premier League West Brom on a free transfer.
The Town boss said: ""We wish Marton well, he is a terrific professional. But if you are going to play second fiddle, you might as well go to the Premier League.
"We are on tenterhooks with David because he is on recall but it is a chance we are going to take and hopefully it will work out for us."
Jewell revealed he would be looking to bring in another keeper, in the wake of Fulop's departure, but cooled questions about former Town favourite Richard Wright, who is reportedly training with Cardiff City.
http://www.greenun24.co.uk/ipswich-town/clemence_backs_stockdale_s_england_call_up_1_987059? (http://www.greenun24.co.uk/ipswich-town/clemence_backs_stockdale_s_england_call_up_1_987059?)
Fulham move ahead of Blackburn in the race for French ace
Reports are suggesting that Fulham have moved ahead of Blackburn in the race to sign the young RC Lens defender Serge Aurier.
Up until now, Malaga and Blackburn were the two clubs to be linked with the 18 year-old right back. Manchester City were also rumored to be interested in the player, although this appears to have cooled.
The French daily Le Parisien is suggesting that Fulham have tabled a bid of around €3.5m, which equates to around £3m in real money.
Aurier, who is contracted to Lens until June 2015 played 27 times for the Nordistes last season. If the move goes ahead it will mark Martin Jol's sixth transfer of the current window following his return to the Premiership.
http://www.cleansheetsallround.co.uk/2011/08/fulham-move-ahead-of-blackburn-in-the-race-for-french-ace (http://www.cleansheetsallround.co.uk/2011/08/fulham-move-ahead-of-blackburn-in-the-race-for-french-ace)
McLeish backs Collins to win fitness race ahead of Fulham
Alex McLeish has backed James Collins to win his race to be fit for Fulham - because of his strong personality.
McLeish admits the fitness of Collins ahead of the Craven Cottage clash is a "worry" but believes the centre-half will do everything he can to ensure he's on the pitch on the opening day.
Collins injured his back in training during the week and so McLeish elected to rest him in the final warm-up match against Braga as a precaution.
All signs point to Collins being an integral member of the side under McLeish so an all-clear for the no-nonsense stopper for the August 13 encounter would be a massive boost for the Villa boss.
He said: "James has injured his back. He did it a few days ago to be fair and he thought he was okay in training on Friday.
"But I think the intensity of training over the last few days just flared it up and he was a bit stiff.
"Therefore, we didn't want to risk him.
"It's a worry - but knowing the type of character James is, I'm sure he'll be determined to be on that pitch at Craven Cottage."
As a result of his back injury, Collins has withdrawn from the Wales squad, who are set to face Australia this week.
Meanwhile, McLeish admits he's raring to go now with the new campaign just around the corner.
Several players are away with their country this week - not ideal preparation he admits.
Barry Bannan is with Scotland as they face Denmark in a friendly at Hamden Park while Richard Dunne, Shay Given and Ciaran Clark are all part of the Republic of Ireland squad who face Croatia at the Aviva Stadium.
Stiliyan Petrov has been called up by Bulgaria for the game against Belarus in Minsk.
Despite this loss of personnel, McLeish is confident ahead of the campaign and insists he is ready to send his team out against Fulham with plenty of confidence in their attitude and aptitude.
He added: "We'll put some more practice in during the coming week, although some players are away on international duty which prevents me from doing it the way I would have liked to prepare.
"But I'm ready to go now - no turning back we've got to go and look forward to the whole campaign and trust the guys that go out on the pitch to do it for Aston Villa.
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2413189,00.html? (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2413189,00.html?)
The Road To Fulham: What Do You Expect From Aston Villa This Season?
It's a fact of human existence that we remember where we were when great tragedies occurred -- presidents killed, buildings felled, objects dropped out of the sky. I remember exactly where I was last year on this date: sitting with my laptop, coffee in hand, trying to wake up while watching my twitter feed. Then, the disbelief hit. Martin O'Neill had resigned from Aston Villa. Unconfirmed reports turned into actual news. The Villa manager had walked out five days before the start of the season. It was 8am and I was on my porch with a glass of whisky.
And that's how we started the disappointing 2010-2011 season. Prior to that fateful Monday, I'd held plenty of hope for the season. Perhaps the Villa would finally beat Rapid Vienna in the Europa Cup. It wasn't certain we'd get Blackburn Rovers in any cup ties. The possibility remained that James Milner might stay at Villa Park. But we know how it all turned out -- Milner off, blowout loss to Newcastle, bringing on Gerard Houllier, Stephen Ireland an utter disappointment, internal strife, players injured and benched, a relegation battle. Nothing we could have imagined waking up that Monday morning last season.
So at the risk of endangering yet another season, what is it you expect from our beloved Aston Villa this time around? A mid-table finish? Relegation battle? European positions? To play Blackburn six times?
And individuals...what do you see happening there? 20 goals from Darren Bent? Stephen Ireland to be rolled up in carpet and pushed off a bridge by Aaron? Stiliyan Petrov to let fire from 30 yards? Who will spend more time limping, Gabriel Agbonlahor or Fabian Delph? Will Marc Albrighton and Barry Bannan get into a fight over legos and stop speaking?
But I think the real question for the season is: Will the expression on Charles N'Zogbia's face ever change?
http://www.7500toholte.com/2011/8/8/2350885/aston-villa-season-expectations? (http://www.7500toholte.com/2011/8/8/2350885/aston-villa-season-expectations?)
Dickson Etuhu turns down Nigeria's last minute call up against Ghana
The Fulham midfielder opts out of playing for the Super Eagles in a late substitution against the Black Stars as John Mikel Obi cannot play for Samson Siasia's team due to injury
Dickson Etuhu might have turned down the opportunity to appear for Nigeria in their important friendly against Ghana on August 9 at Watford's Vicarage Road Stadium.
Etuhu was expected to be a late minute call up to replace injured John Mikel Obi, who picked up a knock at his club.
In what could have been Etuhu's first cap under Samson Siasia, the midfielder turned down the opportunity, saying he will not play for the manager.
"Etuhu has refused to join the squad for the Ghana game as a late replacement for some of the players who will now not be there because of visa issues," MTNFootball quoted an unnamed team official.
"No one really knows why he has refused but he said he will not play for Nigeria under Siasia."
Etuhu has been overlooked by the coach since he missed a call up early in the year due to an injury.
Nigeria are faced with injuries to key players as well as visa denials to other members of the team, including goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, striker Ekigho Ehiosun, midfielder Fegor Ogude and defender Efe Ambrose.
The match against the Black Stars is aimed at preparing them for their African Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar in September.
http://www.goal.com/en/news/1656/nigeria/2011/08/08/2610034/dickson-etuhu-turns-down-nigerias-last-minute-call-up? (http://www.goal.com/en/news/1656/nigeria/2011/08/08/2610034/dickson-etuhu-turns-down-nigerias-last-minute-call-up?)
Aston Villa: Charles N'Zogbia expected to start against Fulham
ALEX McLeish has hinted Charles N'Zogbia will start against Fulham after being impressed with the goal-scoring debutant's trademark trickiness.
N'Zogbia eased McLeish's slight concerns about his fitness by showing few signs of rustiness during his 63-minute claret and blue bow in Braga.
"It was good for Charles to get 60 minutes – that was very important," said McLeish.
"He felt good and so we feel that he's all systems go and available for selection in terms of the new season.
"I think scoring a goal in your first game is tremendous for your confidence.
"As the game progressed he looked more and more lively.
"It's his trademark beating a man within a short space and if he can do that he will open up spaces for other players.
"I thought it was satisfactory for Charles.
"We lost some cracking players in Stewart Downing and Ashley Young so it was important we replaced them with a player who I believe has the quality.
"We need other players to score goals, we can't rely on Darren Bent to score every single goal.
"We need goals from Charles, Gabby, Marc Albrighton, from Emile Heskey. These guys are all capable of scoring."
McLeish was delighted at N'Zogbia's fitness level – but wasn't totally surprised by the winger's conditioning because he kept in shape during the summer.
"He had 24 hours of training before he left to have a break in Dubai," he added, ''Which I think was the right thing to do because he'd been playing games in the summer for France.
"You need to recharge your brain cells as well as your physical state, so it's good that he's done that."
Read More http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/aston-villa-fc/aston-villa-news/2011/08/08/aston-villa-charles-n-zogbia-expected-to-start-against-fulham-97319-29197539/?#ixzz1UQperkxp (http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/aston-villa-fc/aston-villa-news/2011/08/08/aston-villa-charles-n-zogbia-expected-to-start-against-fulham-97319-29197539/?#ixzz1UQperkxp)
Send Us Your Snaps!As Fulham stand just one two-legged tie away from the UEFA Europa League proper, we're asking Whites fans to share their European tour experiences every step of the way.
And having seen your photos from the Faroe Islands and Belfast, we're now inviting anyone that travelled to Split for the Third Qualifying Round, versus RNK, to send in their pictures from around the city, or from the match itself. Sun, sea, history and Fulham all summed up our third destination and we'd love to see your images of all four.
Please send any pictures you have to
[email protected], along with brief captions, and we'll feature the best in next Thursday's matchday programme for the home tie against Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk.
The closing date for submissions is Friday 12th August at 12pm. We look forward to seeing your snaps!
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/August/SendUsYourSnaps.aspx?#ixzz1UR4exwL8 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/August/SendUsYourSnaps.aspx?#ixzz1UR4exwL8)
Defender's Fulham future in the balance
RAFIK Halliche admits the next year will make or break his Fulham career.
The Fulham centre-half has made just one substitute appearance since his switch to Craven Cottage last summer, and is yet to feature under new boss Martin Jol.
But the Algerian international, who still has two years to run on his contract in SW6, hopes he will be finaly given a chance to show what he can do after an injury-hit campaign.
He said: "It was very difficult last year. I had a lot of injuries and didn't really adapt to English football. I wish he [Mark Hughes] gave me more chances.
"Now this is my season. I must step up and take my chance when I get it."
Halliche is well down the pecking order at the club, but he is desperate the Whites make it past FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk into the Europa League group stages.
He added: "I think Aaron Hughes and Brede Hangeland are good players. But maybe the coach may change the team with the Europa League and hopefully I will get a chance to show what I can do."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/08/08/defender-s-fulham-future-in-the-balance-82029-29198671/?#ixzz1UR5TfSBP (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/08/08/defender-s-fulham-future-in-the-balance-82029-29198671/?#ixzz1UR5TfSBP)
A Classic Ten(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Frei/FreiHomeShirtNews.jpg)
Following his meteoric rise from Fulham's U18 side to Martin Jol's First Team, Academy Graduate Kerim Frei has impressed team-mates and supporters alike with his appearances in the UEFA Europa League and Fulham Academy Director, Huw Jennings, is delighted to see his former charge making the breakthrough.
"For Kerim the change to go into the First Team has come early," Jennings told fulhamfc.com. "He's 17 years of age and had always been an exciting prospect. The Club's involvement in the Europa League has really helped to show what he can offer at First Team level.
"He [Frei] doesn't lack for confidence - he's a confident boy in terms of his own ability. He's not an arrogant person – he's very humble in lots of respects but what you see with Kerim is someone who, when he comes onto the pitch, comes alive.
"He explodes when he gets opportunities to get on the ball and it's great to see someone with his qualities being recognised and having a chance to participate."
Frei was an integral part of Kit Symons' U18 side that reached the Academy League Final at the end of last season and Jennings explained why he sees Frei as a classic number ten following his exploits for the Academy in recent years.
"Kerim was known to our recruitment team and we had some discussions with his representatives," Jennings explained of the Frei's pathway to Fulham's Academy. "Kerim came for a visit and it was evident straightaway that he had great talent; we had good reports back from his club and the national programme in Switzerland. He wanted to come and join us which was terrific.
"He's probably the classic number 10. If you look at the way our youth team has played in the last couple of seasons, we've often played 4-4-1-1, which has given him the opportunity to play just off the striker or in one of the wide roles, looking to come in front the touchline.
"Kit Symons has, at times, played 4-1-2-3, so that's also given various options for Karim. With a player of his ability, it's not so much about systems or positions; it's about what he does when he gets the ball, what he does when the team has the ball and what he does when the opposition have possession."
Frei has joined former Academy graduate Matthew Briggs in Fulham's First Team for the Club's recent UEFA Europa League Qualifying matches and Jennings is delighted to see Martin Jol giving the Academy's most talented youngsters opportunities this season.
"We're very positive about Martin Jol's impact," said Jennings. "He's already commented on his desire to try and involve young players as often as possible – but they have to do it on merit. In Kerim's case, he's been involved in part because players have been on international duty – so he's well aware that this is ahead in his progression."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/August/FreiClassicTen.aspx?#ixzz1URlS0lhF (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/August/FreiClassicTen.aspx?#ixzz1URlS0lhF)
Win a pair of tickets to Fulham v Aston Villa
Answer a simple question and you could be off to Craven Cottage on the opening day of the Premier League season
We've teamed up with Barclays, the title sponsor of the Barclays Premier League, to offer one lucky reader the opportunity to win a pair of tickets to Fulham v Aston Villa on Saturday 13 August.
Winners will be announced by Thursday 11 August, but don't worry if you're not successful, you can always win a pair by visiting your nearest Barclays ATM and requesting a receipt, or by going online to www.barclaysticketoffice.com (http://www.barclaysticketoffice.com) – you don't even have to be a Barclays customer.
Match tickets are up for grabs EVERY 90 minutes, every day, throughout the 2011-12 season.
Further information and terms and conditions are available from www.barclaysticketoffice.com (http://www.barclaysticketoffice.com)
To be in with the chance of winning, simply answer the following question:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/competition/2011/aug/08/win-fulham-aston-villa-tickets? (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/competition/2011/aug/08/win-fulham-aston-villa-tickets?)
England Call Well Deserved
Blues boss Paul Jewell says David Stockdale's call into the England squad for Wednesday's friendly with Holland at Wembley is well deserved, even if he'd rather the 25-year-old wasn't spending time away from Portman Road. The on-loan Fulham man is one of only two senior goalkeepers at the club with Márton Fülöp joining West Brom on a free transfer at the weekend.
The Town manager has been very impressed with Stockdale since he signed on a season-long loan: "Even in the pre-season games he had that air of authority about him. He's got good distribution, kicks the ball really well and he's made some terrific saves.
"It's well deserved, I'd prefer for him not to have been called up from a personal point of view, but he couldn't have played for us tomorrow anyway, so as long as he comes back injury free, and just as important as that the Fulham goalkeeper stays injury free, that's fine.
"That's obviously a cause of concern for us, but we knew it was a risk but we thought it was one which was worth taking."
Jewell says Fülöp leaving for no fee was a matter of freeing up wages with last summer's £750,000 signing from Sunderand one of the club's top earners: "His contract was running out and we would have liked a fee but he was on decent wages, so we can't have our cake and eat it.
"He was an expensive number two for us at the moment, so it was a deal we thought was worth doing, and Márton wanted to go.
"It was an opportunity for him to go to the Premier League and we understand that. And I have to say that since Stocky's been here, his professionalism has been exemplary."
Arran Lee-Barrett will start against Northampton with US U20 international Cody Cropper on the bench for the first time. Jewell has confirmed that he will be looking for another keeper as cover for Stockdale.
http://www.twtd.co.uk/news.php?storyid=18922 (http://www.twtd.co.uk/news.php?storyid=18922)
Stockdale Call-Up
David Stockdale, now on loan at Ipswich after signing a new long-term deal with Fulham, has been called up by Fabio Capello for England's game against the Netherlands on Wednesday. Meanwhile, manager Martin Jol has been linked with a move for highly rated Lens right-back, Serge Aurier. A £3 million bid is mooted to have been tabled.
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/8/8/2351132/stockdale-call-up? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/8/8/2351132/stockdale-call-up?)
Fulham Review Round Table #2
Here's part #2. Again, the cast is: Rob is Rob Griffin; Rich is Rich; Jamie is JamieR; Dave is Chopper; Tim is me; Don is HatterDon; Nick is Nick Johnson; Colin is Colin Baker.
Enjoy.
After being just a point off bottom on New Year's Day, what do you think happened in the locker room or training field that saw our fortunes change in 2011? Was it just injured players coming back; was there a noticeable change in tactics; or was it something else?
Jamie: I think there was a period before Christmas when we were caught in between the Hodgson and Hughes styles and ending up with the worst of both: tentative going forward (not helped by all our strikers being injured) but also open at the back. As time progressed I don't think it was so much a change of tactics as the players simply becoming more comfortable under the new regime. We also had a relatively easy run of home fixtures in the New Year, which helped confidence – and of course once the likes of AJ, Dembele and (especially) Zamora returned it made the world of difference going forward. No good playing swashbuckling football if the ball's going to end up at Eddie Johnson's feet.
Dave: For me the first half of the season was a mixture of struggling to come to terms with a new philosophy of football introduced by Team Sparky and a series of unfortunate injuries. We looked a mess in some of those opening games. It seemed that in an effort to apply Mark Hughes' attacking desires we had forgotten how to defend. Certainly some of the roles the midfield were now playing meant less protection for the back four and exposed players who were used to Hodgson's team defense approach.
The win at Stoke was ridiculous. We NEVER win at Stoke and were a shambles going in to the game but from nowhere Mr. Baird stepped up and showed what he could do.
Rich: What fascinates me is the power of turning points in sport. Here we were ending 2010 in a sorry state, away at Stoke City and wearing a curious green and gold strip.
Who should pop up but Chris Baird! Now, as we've seen with his efforts since, Chris Baird is not Gianfranco Zola. Yet on this day at Stoke, amid rumors that Hughes was on the brink, here he is: bang! 1-0! bang! 2-0! What are the odds? Was that the season's turning point?
Rob: There's one name that sums up our season: Zamora. When he broke his leg it was like the heart was torn out of the team. No-one could see where the goals would come from. Yes Dempsey can always be relied upon to do his bit but Dembele was pretty much unproven at that stage (and has since turned out to be rather fragile) AJ was still out of action and Gera was simply being ignored. Bobby's return galvanized the entire team. Even when he came on against Bolton at home in our hapless FA Cup defeat his energy got the crowd going. He gave us – and more importantly his team mates – belief and scored some good goals – Blackpool and Arsenal in particular.
Don: West Ham was the first of two major slaps in the face at home for us, and it certainly marked the low point in our season. I don't believe, however, that the defeat resulted from training ground or locker room problems so much as it was a case of a poor team catching a better team off balance and pummeling them senseless. I never put much credence in "the manager losing the locker room, the plot, the support of the board" as a reason for poor results. As some backwoods philosopher probably never said, "Some days you eats the bear; some days the bear eats you."
Having said all that, Stoke away was certainly a welcome performance and result. It is also usual for us to dominate for long periods or even an entire match and get nothing out of it — Arsenal at home last 2009-2010 is an example — and our nicking two goals in a match we never really seemed to control was a nice turnabout.
Colin: It really took a long time to get going. After the draw with Villa at home, we sat 12th in the table with +1 goal difference – that sounds respectable, but we should have done a lot better. We had a very easy schedule to start the season, but we allowed opponents to have too many easy chances, and the results suffered. Into November and December – possibly the most difficult portion of the season – we're still not defending all that well, so it's not surprising that we dip into the relegation zone.
I considered Stoke away to be a bit of a good luck result, but it also seemed to mark the start of one confidence boost after another. Some impressive individual performances from Baird, Stockdale, Dempsey and others helped turn our luck around, and by February, all of the regulars were back to playing at the levels we had expected at the start of the season.
Nick: I never saw this as a "locker room" issue. Our senior players seem to be a pretty level headed bunch that is very professional in their approach. It was simply a question of personnel and adapting to the Hughes system.
1) Zamora's absence. 2) Other strikers' absence. 3) The Baird factor: not his highly improbable goals at Stoke, vital though they were. It was his spell at Left Back which restored our fraying defensive solidity. 4) The Sidwell factor. I like Etuhu and he had some storming cameos as a sub at the end of the season, but for me Sidwell gave us better balance.
Tim: Though you all bring up good points about Chris Baird solidifying the defense and Bobby Zamora coming back; for me it was all about Damien Duff. He started off this season battling injuries and horrid form, but ended up a stalwart for the side (before missing the last 7 games injured).
It's probably no coincidence that when Hughes started playing him inverted on the right, the club's form improved. From the start of the season until that game at Stoke, Duff started on the left in 13 of 18 games. After Stoke away, he played on the left side just once for the rest of the season. He would score four goals over this span, including the winner against Newcastle, the equalizer at City, and to put us ahead twice against Blackburn. And although he didn't score, he played an integral part in our 4-0 thrashing of Spurs in the FA Cup.
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/08/08/fulham-review-round-table-2/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/08/08/fulham-review-round-table-2/?)
Big price tag for Osvaldo
Espanyol want big fee for striker
Espanyol coach Mauricio Pochettino says teams will have to cough up €30million to lure prolific Argentine striker Pablo Osvaldo away from the club.
Atletico Madrid are believed to have bid €20million for the 25-year-old as they seek a replacement for Sergio Aguero, but Espanyol are unwilling to lower their asking price.
Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham and Juventus have also been linked with the former Fiorentina man, who scored 13 league goals for Espanyol last season.
"If the player (Osvaldo) wants to go there is a buy-out clause of 30million euros and the league starts in two weeks," Pochettino said in Sport.
"The time has come to put the cards on the table. As far as I am concerned he is a player that is difficult to replace if he goes.
"It isn't good to not have things clear at this stage."
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,,11842_7088376,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,,11842_7088376,00.html?)
Clint Dempsey and the Fate of America
Clint Dempsey is not an angry person. Countless profiles of the United States and Fulham star reveal a family man who loves his wife Bethany, his children (Elysia and Jackson), and his large family. They tell the touching tale of a young Clint sacrificing his soccer dreams so his talented sister Jennifer could pursue her tennis career, only returning to his expensive travel team after she tragically passed away from a brain aneurysm. A grown Dempsey chats with kids to help them reach their goals. He's a nice guy.
My personal favorite Dempsey anecdote takes place in South Africa during the 2010 World Cup. The American team was sequestered at Irene Country Lodge in a remote part of Pretoria. Cows and chickens wandered the premises, which doubled as a working farm. Although the US staff provided the requisite videogame systems, the players were frequently bored.
Much to the amusement of their teammates, on most afternoons Dempsey and his childhood friend José Francisco Torres found themselves fishing in the pond behind their room. You can take the boys out of Texas...
So no, Clint Dempsey is not angry. But Lord, he sure does look pissed on the field. This partially, I suspect, is a product of his appearance. Combine those big googly eyes with a smile, and you get a man who couldn't intimidate Miss Piggy, much less Maicon or Messi. Draw a scowl (and some stubble) below Dempsey's big browns, however, and you're confronting a scary-ass Muppet coming off a five-day bender. What a long, strange trip it's been from Nacogdoches.
But there's more. The attacker looks angry because he plays angry, both for himself and his country. It works. See 22 goals for the Stars and Stripes—5th on the all-time list—and a dozen for Fulham during the 2010-2011 season. There are two chips on his shoulder: one from thriving against the absurdly long odds and the larger, collective one he shares with his American brethren who are succeeding in the world's game.
You hear the refrain that soccer is joy, soccer is love, soccer is beauty. These are overused narratives in the Age of The Special One—magnificence is fighting a losing battle against the need for victory—but ones that persist among the billions who cherish the sport. Barcelona isn't the most loved team on the planet because we like their uniforms. We hold out for vestiges of the beautiful game.
American soccer in its current form, however, is not about splendor. It can't be if the Red, White, and Blue want to succeed. Nor should that be the goal. Not right now. The US needs grit and determination, the stuff of Detroit and the American dream. They need last-second miracles against Algeria—Landon Donovan converted Dempsey's rebound—and sliding goals against Panama in the Gold Cup. They can't walk the ball into the net, even against Guadeloupe. Not yet, and maybe not ever.
Clint Dempsey's fury is the most consistent example of what the US requires. It's not that he can't mixtape a defender or score the most impressive of goals, but more that the focus is on effort and passion. Earlier in his national team career, the midfielder was criticized—rightly or wrongly—for floating in and out of games. As he grows older, he's morphing into a latter day Brian McBride, sacrificing his body and soul for the Stars and Stripes, glaring from the first notes of the "Star Spangled Banner" through the final whistle.
At the 2006 World Cup, Dempsey scored the lone goal by an American. He beat Ghanaian defender Habib Mohamed to a curling pass from DaMarcus Beasley and slammed the bouncing ball past Richard Kingson. It was the hardest I've ever seen a member of Red, White, and Blue kick a ball, a release of frustrations that were both personal and squadwide.
Then, hard work done, he ran to the corner flag, arms raised in triumph as the anger evaporated for a brief moment. He broke into a smile and shimmied with joy for the briefest of moments before the anger and intensity returned to his narrow face. As Beasley, McBride, and Eddie Lewis enveloped him in a group hug, he screamed, fists balled in fury. The struggle wasn't over. It never is.
A look can't kill, but it can sure make a statement as the ball explodes into the back of the net.
Noah Davis (www.noahedavis.com (http://www.noahedavis.com)) covers the United States national team for MLSsoccer.com and has reported from exotic locations including Guatemala, Honduras, South Africa, and Columbus, Ohio.
http://www.runofplay.com/2011/08/08/clint-dempsey-and-the-fate-of-america/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+runofplay+%28The+Run+of+Play%29 (http://www.runofplay.com/2011/08/08/clint-dempsey-and-the-fate-of-america/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+runofplay+%28The+Run+of+Play%29)
Jol misses out as focus stays on right back
Fulham have lost out in the race for Dutch winger Wesley Verhoek after he joined Nottingham Forest for an undisclosed fee.
Fulham were reportedly interested in the ex-ADO Den Haag starlet last week, but Martin Jol moved too late after former Twente Enschede and England boss Steve McClaren persuaded him to go to the City Ground.
Rangers had also been very keen on the 24-year-old and reportedly had a £1million bid rejected by the Dutch club last month.
However, Fulham do not have a pressing need for another winger as Jol concentrates on getting a new right back and a striker in before the start of the Premier League season.
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/jol-misses-out-as-focus-stays-on-right-back-1256087.html#.Tj_7AXPHo98 (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/jol-misses-out-as-focus-stays-on-right-back-1256087.html#.Tj_7AXPHo98)
All Fulham's early work has not been in vain
Fulham - Brede Hangeland and the boys are buzzing already
(http://www.givemefootball.com/GMF/files/b0/b09a6e84-0bc5-41a4-9ed3-f9f9297848b7.jpg)
Brede Hangeland is expecting Fulham's UEFA Europa League play-off encounter against FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk to be the Cottagers' biggest examination yet, as Martin Jol's side bid to progress to the competition's first group stage.
The highly-rated Ukranian side, now managed by former Tottenham boss Juande Ramos, boast a wealth of European experience having qualified for the formerly named UEFA Cup group stages in 2003, '04 and '05.
"We expect it to be the toughest tie yet," Hangeland told fulhamfc.com. "But that's what you have to expect the closer you get to the group stage – from which we are now just two games away from.
"Of course, we want to do well in the Europa League and we want to make sure that coming back so early hasn't been for nothing because this is a competition that we all have good memories from.
"There's already been a fair bit of football, but we've needed to get through these early rounds in order to give it another good go."
Hangeland has been impressed with the way his teammates have come back early for pre-season and knuckled down without complaint, and hopes that the Whites will be rewarded for their unwavering commitment by overcoming the final hurdle to make it through to the first round proper.
"RNK Split were a good side and we should give them credit – they played some decent football," he reflected. "They caused us a few problems in the first leg and at times did the same in the second.
"It's been very enjoyable so far and to go out now, when we are this close to the group stage would be devastating. So, as we always do, we'll take each game as it comes and give it our best."
http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/all-fulhams-early-work-has-not-been-in-vain? (http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/all-fulhams-early-work-has-not-been-in-vain?)
Cottagers Confidential Season Preview
(http://cdn3.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/1718818/120333631_extra_large.jpg)
Alan Crowhurst - Getty Images
It's the one stage in the season where the whole Premier League is equal and there is nothing to separate the abundant class divides but alphabetical fortunes. As it stands, Swansea are statistically identical to Manchester United and we here at Fulham can't, as of yet, belittle our not-so-noisy neighbours at Queens Park Rangers for being so inferior - this is hypothetical of course, good luck to QPR.
It never lasts, however.
So what's in store for the Cottagers in this season of memorable importance - it being our tenth consecutive in the top flight of Europe's finest league?
New faces? In the grand scheme of things, although it wouldn't seem like it necessarily, it's been a summer of quite some upheaval - from the top down. Mark Hughes soured our early June with news of his resignation but, as goes in football, Fulham and Al Fayed will have, and arguably already have had, the last laugh. The Welshman finds himself jobless after an expectant move to Villa Park broke down on the grounds of, funnily enough, his Fulham exit. In his place we find the cuddly, but not in the least merciful, Martin Jol. The man himself suggested that Fulham's constant contact and camaraderie were tasteful aspects behind his decision to join - as well as the palpable opportunity to take this South West London side onto greater things.
The former Ajax boss has promised much, claiming young players will be nurtured effectively through the academy and through the more direct method of simply entering the transfer market. Yet, while Kerim Frei and Matthew Briggs have clearly flourished with such proposals, the marquee signing of the Summer so far, John Arne Riise, at 30 years old, perhaps added a touch of contradiction to Jol's early comments. There is clearly method in the purchase though, with Riise still well capable of producing moments of wonderment just as in yesteryear. Alongside the experience of Liverpool's former star, Dan Burn, Csaba Somogyi, Marcel Gecov and Pajtim Kasami have all signed at an overall cost of around £7 million.
Back in Europe? If any club is aware of the contrasting merriment and despair that European competition can bring, it is certainly us. Barely a year on (yet two managers later), and Hangeland, Duff and the like are experiencing a Europa League challenge yet again - although this time with a far earlier starting time. While our 2009/10 journey required nineteen matches to gain a runners-up medal, this campaign will ask far more of our boys - in the shape of four extra games. Pre-season has been practically obliterated due to participation, although many can fairly argue that competitive football at such an early stage may well benefit our early league form. Of course, we now have experience of the greater stage and we know, to the greatest detail, what to expect. However, to make it to the final again would be a gargantuan task, given three other fronts to fight on (League, Carling Cup, F.A Cup). You never know, though.
(http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/347718/98749655_medium.jpg)
Last time we were in Europe, our league form dipped. Will it happen again? It's all quite dependable really. If we were to hypothetically play all 23 matches then we would do well to finish in the top half, but if we were to be knocked out early on in Europe, then Jol will want his men to be inside the first ten. I think, given some greater depth, anywhere between 8th and 14th is respectable and achievable even if fatigue plays a major part. Our new Dutch boss will do well to balance the two perfectly, but it's what he has been employed for. My guess would be 9th place.
Silverware please? Hopefully. It's not beyond us, although we are becoming a tad infamous for being nearly men. Both our FA Cup runners' up medals and their Europa League parallels are rewards to be proud of, but vaguely remembered of outside of SW6. If we are to truly establish ourselves on the footballing map, then we must achieve another of Jol's goals for his own reign, and that is win a trophy. With Birmingham City carrying home the Carling Cup last season, it can't be seen as beyond us to achieve a similar feat. It would be more-than a tough task, but a cup is always only a few consecutive wins away. Oh, and if we're drawn against Spurs at home, then we should be just fine.
Will Jol actually stay? Yes.
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/8/8/2351266/cottagers-confidential-season-preview? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/8/8/2351266/cottagers-confidential-season-preview?)
