http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/161461/Smalling-can-t-wait-to-serve-up-a-treat-for-new-boss-Fergie
SMALLING CAN'T WAIT TO SERVE UP A TREAT FOR NEW BOSS FERGIE
Smalling, 20, completed his rags-to-riches £12 million move to Old Trafford in January
Wednesday March 3,2010
By Niall Hickman
CHRIS Smalling was waiting tables in a Kent hotel 18 month ago – and now he is the player in waiting, and aiming to take Manchester United by storm.
Smalling, 20, completed his rags-to-riches £12 million move to Old Trafford in January and was immediately loaned back to Fulham, who had plucked him from non-League obscurity at Maidstone United.
He will get another chance to impress his future boss Sir Alex Ferguson – he returns to Old Trafford at the end of the season – in tonight's European Under-21 Championship qualifier against Greece at Doncaster.
Stuart Pearce's youngsters need to win to leapfrog Greece and go top of their group as they seek to make the 2011 finals in Denmark.
"I was working as a waiter in a hotel in Chatham while doing my A levels and playing for Maidstone," said defender Smalling. "I was earning something like £5 an hour so things have turned around quickly. It has been a whirlwind and very exciting."
"The move to United came out of the blue. I was just concentrating on doing well for Fulham and linking up with the Under-21s, but this is a fantastic opportunity. When you have one of the biggest clubs in the world even considering that you will be good enough for them it is a massive compliment."
"I had a talk with Sir Alex and he told me how far he thought I could go. I'm sure I will be star-struck at times up there, but I really have to knuckle down in pre-season as I am so desperate to be a part of everything at United."
"England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce has been very supportive. He came from non-League football and has proved that as long as you work hard and have the ability you can go far. It hasn't been difficult to concentrate despite knowing what is going to happen in the summer. It was done nice and early in January which has enabled me to get on with everything at Fulham."
"We are going well and we are still in a couple of cup competitions. We have Spurs in the FA Cup on Saturday then we play Juventus in the Europa League and to have that type of experience is a brilliant opportunity for any player."
Greenwich-born Smalling grew up just a few miles from new England skipper Rio Ferdinand and says he has tried to model his game on him.
"When you are young and there is someone like Rio playing in your position, someone who has played so many games for England and Manchester United, you are always trying to take bits and pieces from his game," he said. "I met him when I went up to Manchester for a medical which was great."
Smalling, who only made his Premier League debut in the final game of last season, was planning on going to university while playing for Maidstone in the Isthmian League, but studies have now taken a back seat.
"I suppose it is quite rare for a footballer to have four A levels, but it was important to study while going on trials with clubs," he said.
"Just before I joined Fulham I applied to Loughborough University to do a business course. A lot of my friends are at university and they tell me it is great fun. I'm not ready for Countdown just yet though!"
Reserves 2-0 Stoke
Tuesday 2nd March 2010
Fulham FC News
Goals from Christopher Buchtmann and Danny Hoesen capped an impressive night for the Development Squad who now stand six games unbeaten following this comfortable defeat of Stoke City.
Fulham certainly made the brighter of the starts with Billy McKinlay's young side catching the eye with a spell of flowing football that would ultimately set the tone for what was to follow.
One such move fashioned an early chance for the returning Rob Milsom, with the captain's low strike from the edge of the box stinging the arms of veteran 'keeper Steve Simonsen.
A teasing cross from Keanu Marsh-Brown then saw Danny Hoesen turn the ball narrowly wide at the near post, with the Dutch striker unfortunate not to slide home Alex Smith's centre from the left.
There was also a return to action for left-back Paul Konchesky with his and Freddie Stoor's experience vital either side of the young central defensive pairing of Aaron Pierre and Cheick Toure – the latter of which was making his Development Squad debut.
Another making his first start for the Whites was midfielder Christopher Buchtmann, a January transfer window signing from Liverpool, and a player that impressed from the off driving forward with conviction and endeavour with display that bodes well for the future.
In fact it was from one such surge that opened Stoke's defence; however when the ball fell to a well-placed Hoesen the referee blew for offside. The German youth international then forced a smart stop from Simonsen on the half hour mark.
The visiting 'keeper got nowhere near the next effort however, with David Elm collecting the ball from Marsh-Brown's determined run and finding Hoesen on the left of the box, but his strike flashed inches over.
However, Fulham took a deserved lead on the stroke of half-time with Konchesky breaking from defence and finding Buchtmann on the edge of the Stoke box, with a clever touch to get away from Matt Cohen the youngster finished superbly into the right hand corner of the net.
Smith should have doubled Fulham's lead just before the half-time whistle blew but Fulham entered the break in control and in confident mood.
The second half started in equally positive fashion with Buchtmann breaking forward once more and slipping his pass into the path of Hoesen whose close range strike failed to find the target.
Elm cut in from the right and curled a left-footed strike at goal, but Simonsen got down well to push the ball wide for a corner. Milsom flashed over from the resulting corner.
With half an hour on the clock it was Fulham that looked most likely to add to the scoring although Pierre did well to out-jump Dave Kitson in the face of danger.
Buchtmann tried his luck from distance as did Konchesky, before Simonsen made a stunning stop to deny Smith's clever volley.
The impressive Marsh-Brown weaved some space with 15 minutes on the clock only to fire wide, while Hoesen flashed another chance past the post with just the goalkeeper to beat.
The visitors finished the game strongly with Louis Moult and Cameron Mitchell whipping in some challenging crosses but fortunately for Fulham Stoke failed to capitalise.
At the other end Hoesen did get his goal, with his cool finish on the turn all but sealing the win with five minutes remaining.
Milsom made way for Cristian Marquez-Sanchez thereafter, and the talented midfielder will have been pleased with his evening's work having missed the last year of football following a serious knee injury.
It had been almost three months since McKinlay's team had last been in action, and a welcome return this performance was with Fulham composed and positive throughout.
FULHAM TEAM: Zuberbuhler; Stoor, Konchesky (Harris 70), Pierre, Toure; Marsh-Brown, Milsom (Marquez-Sanchez 85), Smith, Buchtmann; Elm (Trotta 77), Hoesen. (Subs not used): Etheridge, Payne.
STOKE CITY RESERVES : Simonsen; Hedley (Stockhall 87), McDonald, Cohen, Davies; Lund, Amdy Faye, Mitchell (Sinclair 87), Foster (Jackson 87); Kitson, Moult. (Sub not used): Parton.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/ReservesvStokeResult.aspx#ixzz0h5dbV6gO (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/ReservesvStokeResult.aspx#ixzz0h5dbV6gO)
Juventus Away Tickets
Tuesday 2nd March 2010
Fulham FC News
Fulham have been allocated 1,537 tickets for the away leg of the Europa League match Juventus v Fulham at Stadio Olimpico di Torino (temporary home of Juventus). Supporters should note that this was the maximum allocation given to the Club by Juventus.
In view of the high demand for tickets they will be sold on the basis of 1 per Season Ticket Holder , and you must provide your full name, date of birth, accommodation details and mode of transport to Italy at the time of purchase.
Tickets will go on sale at 9am on Wednesday 3rd March, and are priced at £20 each.
Please note, tickets will be available in person from the Fulham FC Ticket Office at Craven Cottage at 9am, and by telephone on 0870 442 1234 ( option 3 ). A maximum of 6 tickets may be purchased by a Season Ticket Holder when using other supporters' allocation.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/JuventusAwayTickets.aspx#ixzz0h5ds1pYW (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/JuventusAwayTickets.aspx#ixzz0h5ds1pYW)
Ask AJ
Tuesday 2nd March 2010
Fulham FC News
Andrew Johnson is currently working his way back to fitness in preparation for the 2010/11 season following recent knee surgery.
The striker is back at Fulham's Motspur Park Training Ground and we're giving you an exclusive chance to question AJ on anything you like, so submit your questions on Cottage Corner today and we'll find out the anwsers to your best questions later this week.
Ask your questions now!|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/AskAJ.aspx#ixzz0h5e7mugw (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/AskAJ.aspx#ixzz0h5e7mugw)
http://goal.com/en/news/14/asia/2010/03/02/1814817/fulham-midfielder-andranik-teymourian-determined-to-stay-in
Fulham Midfielder Andranik Teymourian Determined To Stay In Europe
By Rupert Fryer
Mar 2, 2010 6:19:00 PM
Fulham midfielder Andranik Teymourian has said he won't be the next in an increasing line of Iranian footballers returning to their homeland, insisting he intends to stay in Europe.
"I am determined to stay in Europe and I don't want to return to Iran," he is quoted as saying by Iran Sports Press.
The former Bolton midfielder is out of favour at Craven Cottage and is yet to make a single Premier League appearance for Fulham this season.
"Gaffer Roy Hodgson prefers to use the other players at Fulham and I can't stay at Craven Cottage. I am sure I am going to have bright days in European football."
The 26-year-old was heavily linked with a move away from London in the winter transfer window but admitted a lack of interest in his services.
"I wanted to join another team in the winter break but I didn't receive a good offer," he said.
Finally, the Iranian international revealed he was looking forward to the 2011 Asian Cup and tipped Team Meli to prevail in Thailand.
"We have already qualified for the 2011 Asian Cup and will play Thailand without any pressure. I believe that Iran is even able to claim the title of the 2011 Asian Cup championship," he concluded.
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/03/02/on-the-spot-stephen-kelly-82029-25947544/
On the spot: Stephen Kelly
Mar 2 2010 By Jacob Murtagh
FULHAM defender Stephen Kelly gives you the low-down on Damien Duff's dodgy clobber, Zoltan Gera's taste in music and his dreams of becoming a vet if he didn't make the grade as a footballer.
First car?
A Mini.
First wage?
I used to help my dad's friend who had a building site back home when I was 15. I got £60 a week!
Worst dressed player at the club?
It's a toss between Zoltan Gera and Damien Duff, but I'd say Damo because he wears Uggs boots, and they're supposed to be for girls!
Worst taste in music at the club?
Zoli [Gera]. He listens to some Hungarian music that none of us have ever heard of!
First CD?
Jamiroquai, Virtual Insanity.
What's the last thing you downloaded for your ipod?
Mumford & Sons' album.
Who did you support as a boy?
Being from Dublin it's usually Man U or Liverpool, and Liverpool were my team.
Most skilful player at the club?
Duffer's a tricky winger.
Biggest joker?
Bobby Z.
What would you be if you weren't a footballer?
I always wanted to be a vet. I was always into my education back home and when I was over here, and it's something I would've liked to go into if I didn't make it in football.
http://fulhampatsfan.blogspot.com/2010/03/what-happens-when-injured-players-start.html
What happens when injured players start returning for Fulham?
The injuries started to pile up at the beginning of the New Year for Fulham. I think the team has been able to survive these injuries. The big question is what happens to the lineup when these injured players return? Don't get me wrong having these players back will be a huge help. I am just curious what Roy Hogdson will do.
1. Paul Konchesky could be the closest Fulham player to return from injury. As I mentioned prior having these players back is wonderful. In Konchesky's place Nicky Shorey has done a great job at defender. Do you just put Konchesky back in at his position when he is ready? Maybe, you have Konchesky only play the Europa League matches and have Shorey continue to play the League games and the F A Cup games. Again, this is a good problem to have when Paul returns. Shouldn't an injured player just get his job back when he comes back from injury? I am curious to see how Roy handles this.
2. Clint Dempsey it has been reported might have already started light training back with the team late last week. Clint had a knee injury and you have to be careful how quickly he comes back. I have to say Simon Davies has done a great job in midfield. I forgot how much I enjoyed watching him play when he is back to normal. Again I am assuming Dempsey will be back in the lineup when he is ready. But, do you ease him into play or does he just go back into the starting lineup?
3. John Pantsil seems the farthest away from injury. He might not be ready to return this season. Let's go with the assumption he is good to go say at the very end of the season. I would put him in as soon as possible. John Pantsil has showed me this year his value. I still think, him getting hurt in the Chelsea game changed the complexion of that match. He has been very strong on defense and has been able to push the ball up front. I do think Chris Baird though has done a nice job. He deserves more credit than he gets.
Before I end this post I have a different question I have been thinking about. What is going on with Chris Smalling? There have been opportunities for him to play and we haven't seen him lately. I believe he cannot play in the Europa League. I understand that but why isn't he playing in the league games? This is just something I have been thinking about.
To close it should be interesting to see how Roy Hogdson handles the return of injured players. It certainly can't hurt to have more healthy options.
Posted by Fulham-Pats Fan at 11:53 AM
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/34944/Three_overrated_Fulham_players_.aspx
Three overrated Fulham players
Author: Jonny Abrams
Posted on:02 March 2010 - 16:18
Angry comments at the ready, dear readers! Sport.co.uk selects three Fulham players who are highly thought of inside and/or outside of Craven Cottage but whom we – or at least this writer – fail to see what all the fuss is about. Feel free to correct us in the comments section, Cottagers fans...or indeed Roy Hodgson...
Andrew Johnson – It may be unfair to pick on the former England striker while he's sidelined through injury but the recent goal-scoring exploits of Bobby Zamora have reflected unfavourably upon the club's record signing. Johnson's pace (or what's left of it) and work rate make him a very useful outlet as a lone striker for a side playing the percentages – he's very good at hustling full-backs into conceding a throw-in, for instance – but there is no evidence of the deadliness which made him so prolific during his Crystal Palace days (as well as his first 7 games for Everton). Johnson is a likeable player and person and would undoubtedly still serve a purpose for a club in the Premier League's lower reaches, but Fulham have moved on and now require better.
Simon Davies – The general consensus amongst neutrals seems to be that Davies has returned to his Spurs best since joining the Cottagers from Everton but in truth those halcyon days of getting linked with big-money moves to Manchester United and Liverpool are still well beyond the Welsh midfielder. Davies is a bright and tidy enough footballer who occasionally wields a decent delivery but, as a wide man, he is about as penetrating as a slab of butter through a brick wall. All in all, he's another likeable player who just doesn't offer enough to be a regular starter in a top ten Premier League side.
Jonathan Greening – Now aged 31, Greening has over his career gathered a reputation as a player that could do all sorts of useful jobs for all sorts of teams without really taking anywhere by storm. One suspects that much of the regard he is held in stems from having played for Manchester United as a youngster because, at Fulham at least, he has shown up as a limited and overtly defensive presence on the left of midfield who seems to rely too much on an overlapping full-back like the on-loan Nicky Shorey.
Do you agree with any of the above? Is there anyone else at Fulham whom you consider overrated? How far can the Cottagers go in the Europa League? Does it concern you that many people see Roy Hodgson as the next England manager?
http://www.godsfoot.com/
Fulham Review: Great Escape Reprints!
Filed under: General — weltmeisterclaude @ 2:35 pm
(http://cravencottagenewsround.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/reprintfrontsmall.jpg?w=300&h=432)
Hi
After much umming and arring I'm going to run a second print run of the now out of print Great Escape Fulham Review.
The trick here is that it's going to be a bit more expensive, as I'm not going to run off 3/400 of them (20/30 more likely). So to cover this I'm going to ask for £10 a copy. Hopefully this doesn't scare too many people off, but it's costing me a lot more to print them. All 06/07 and 08/09 (and 09/10 for that matter) remain at the bargain £5 price.
If you'd like to pre-order please go to www.godsfoot.com (http://www.godsfoot.com). When I get a few orders in I'll get them printed up and sent out.
cheers
Rich
http://hammyend.com/?p=5779
Aaron Hughes: Mr. Consistent
by Dan on March 2, 2010
Aaron Hughes is one of three outfield Premier League players to have played every minute for their club this season. That shows a) just how much faith Roy Hodgson has in the Northern Ireland centre back and b) how important he is to the Fulham defence.
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http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/03/02/fulham-utility-man-fires-warning-to-john-pantsil-82029-25945580/
Fulham utility man fires warning to John Pantsil
Mar 2 2010
By Jacob Murtagh
FULHAM utility man Chris Baird has warned John Pantsil he has a battle on his hands for the right-back berth.
The Ghanaian has been sidelined since the turn of the year with a knee injury, but is expected to return in the next month.
But Baird has filled the void, helping the Whites to an eight-game unbeaten streak.
And he has told his team-mate he won't give up the shirt without a fight.
"The shirt's mine to lose," he said. "It will be interesting to see what happens when John's back.
"The more good things that go right for me and the team, then it's up to the manager if he wants to change it.
"I feel like I've taken my chance, in midfield as well as right-back. The manager needed cover here and knows I can play anywhere."
Baird had a nightmare spell in the same position under former boss Lawrie Sanchez when he moved to Craven Cottage two-and-a-half years ago.
He looked to be surplus to requirements under Roy Hodgson, but the Northern Irishman has turned around his fortunes.
He added: I'm playing well, and am confident, which I wasn't under Sanchez.
"That put me down a bit, and that's why I wasn't playing as well. I'm just delighted to be getting the opportunity, and taking it."
CAN'T WAIT ... Smalling
By STEVE BRENNER
Published: Today
CHRIS SMALLING used to wait tables in a hotel - now he cannot wait to dish up success at Manchester United.
The Fulham defender completes his incredible rise from non-league to the Premier League champions this summer after a deal - which may rise to £14million - was struck back in January.
But just 18 months ago he was earning £5 an hour as a waiter near his Kent home while studying for A-Levels and playing for Maidstone United.
Smalling, 20, who starts for the England Under-21s in their European Championship qualifier with Greece in Doncaster tonight, said: "It has been a whirlwind and things are happening very quickly. It is very exciting.
"My move to United came out of the blue. I was just concentrating on doing well for Fulham and linking up with the Under-21s, then suddenly it came up and it is a fantastic opportunity for me.
"When you have one of the biggest clubs in the world even considering you will be good enough for them, it is a massive compliment.
"I think at times I'll be star-struck, but I'm not nervous. When I started to play for Fulham I got a few nerves, but I've played now and have started to get used to it."
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2875262/Chris-cant-wait.html#ixzz0h5kvurY1 (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2875262/Chris-cant-wait.html#ixzz0h5kvurY1)
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/huddlestone-injury-blow-to-spurs-bid-for-topfour-finish-1914824.html
Huddlestone injury blow to Spurs' bid for top-four finish
By Mike McGrath
Wednesday, 3 March 2010
Huddlestone has started 30 games for Spurs this season
The Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Tom Huddlestone has suffered damage to his ankle ligaments and will visit a specialist this week to determine how long he will be sidelined and whether his World Cup hopes are in jeopardy.
The 23-year-old, who made his England debut last November in the defeat to Brazil, picked up the injury in the victory over Everton that sent Spurs back into the top four of the Premier League on Sunday. Huddlestone could not stand on his right foot following the challenge by John Heitinga and a scan revealed ligament damage.
The Tottenham manager, Harry Redknapp, has established Huddlestone as a regular in his team, starting him 30 times this season, and the injury is a huge blow in view of the midfielder's form and with Spurs already struggling with injuries.
The winger Aaron Lennon has a groin strain and must rest for at least six weeks, which also means he will be running out of time to impress Fabio Capello before the England manager picks his squad for South Africa.
Jermaine Jenas needs a groin operation, David Bentley has a tear in his groin, captain Ledley King is struggling with a thigh injury and centre-back Jonathan Woodgate is likely to miss the rest of the campaign.
As a result, Redknapp has recalled Jake Livermore from Peterborough after a nine-game spell at London Road. The 20-year-old has not played in the FA Cup this season so could be in the squad for the quarter-final against Fulham on Saturday.
But the in-form striker Roman Pavlyuchenko is putting thoughts about leaving Spurs to one side while there is plenty to fight for this season. "I try not to think about my future in the team," said the striker, who has scored six goals in his last three games. "At the moment it is senseless and unprofessional. We have clear goals: to win the FA Cup and get into the top four in the Premier League to get a ticket to the Champions League. I will start thinking about my future in June."
Quote from: White Noise on March 03, 2010, 05:53:07 AM
Ask AJ
Tuesday 2nd March 2010
Fulham FC News
Andrew Johnson is currently working his way back to fitness in preparation for the 2010/11 season following recent knee surgery.
The striker is back at Fulham's Motspur Park Training Ground and we're giving you an exclusive chance to question AJ on anything you like, so submit your questions on Cottage Corner today and we'll find out the anwsers to your best questions later this week.
Ask your questions now!|
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/AskAJ.aspx#ixzz0h5e7mugw (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/AskAJ.aspx#ixzz0h5e7mugw)
Are the club mad? They could risk another injury here if they are not careful.
http://www.whydelilah.co.uk/news/03_Mar_2010/Reserves+crash+at+Fulham.html (http://www.whydelilah.co.uk/news/03_Mar_2010/Reserves+crash+at+Fulham.html)Reserves crash at FulhamBy Jon Owen | Published: Wednesday 03 Mar 2010
[email protected]LACKLUSTRE Stoke slipped to a 2-0 defeat against Fulham in the Barclays Premier Reserve League last night.
Stoke fielded a mix of fringe first-teamers and youth team players, with Steve Simonsen, Amdy Faye, Andy Davies and last week's FA Cup hero, Dave Kitson, all starting.
Paul Konchesky was included in the Fulham starting 11, while Swiss international goalkeeper Pascal Zuberbuhler was between the home side's sticks.
And it was Fulham who started the brighter of the two sides with the eager central midfielder Chris Buchtmann eager to make some early runs into the Stoke box.
Watching Fulham boss Roy Hodgson would have been impressed with his side's opening goal just before the end of the first half, Konchesky's ball forward from the left being met by the run of Buchtmann, who beat Simonsen to drive a shot home from just outside the box.
Stoke found were finding it hard to get into any rhythm during a frustrating first period, although Kitson was providing a threat in the air.
In truth, Fulham should have gone in at the break with more than the one goal as City's defensive partnership of Matt Cohen and Davies struggled to cope with Fulham's little and large strike duo of Danny Hoesen and David Elm.
The two linked well throughout the game, and Hoesen should have opened the scoring on 20 minutes but failed to meet Elm's excellent low cross.
Kitson's snapshot provided Stoke with hope, but Fulham deservedly led at the interval.
Stoke came out in the second half looking more determined to impress assistant manager Peter Reid, who was in charge of the team for the night.
Kitson and striker partner Louis Moult worked were working hard to try to create openings, but the Fulham defence coped well.
The home side grew stronger as the half wore on, and doubled their lead on 75 minutes when Hoesen's low drive from a Keanu Marsh-Brown cross beat Simonsen at his right-hand post.
City made a triple substitution in the 86th minute, bringing on Craig Sinclair, Nick Jackson and Danny Stockhall for Cameron Mitchell, Zack Foster and Alex Hedley, but they newcomers had too little time to make an impression.
TEAMS
Fulham: Zuberbuhler, Stoor, Konchesky (Harris 70), Pierre, Toure, Buchtmann, Marsh-Brown, Milsom (Marquez-Sanchez 82), Hoesen, Elm (Payne 85), Smith.
Stoke: Simonsen, Hedley (Stockhall 86), McDonald, Amdy Faye, Cohen, Davies, Lund, Mitchell (Sinclair 86), Kitson, Moult, Foster (Jackson 86).
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/football-in-wales/2010/03/03/boaz-myhill-91466-25948919/
SIMON DAVIES
The former Welsh skipper hasn't played for his country since the desperately disappointing World Cup double-header against Finland and Germany a year ago.
Davies was disappointed with the flak he received after the Finnish flop, but he was extremely poor that afternoon and John Toshack subsequently went on to publicly criticise him.
The Fulham man returns tonight as the playmaker in the absence of Ramsey and has to make his mark.
http://sport.stv.tv/football/161012-middlesbrough-line-up-loan-move-for-scottish-third-division-starlet/
Middlesbrough line up loan move for Scottish Third Division starlet
Livingston left winger Andy Halliday, 18, is a transfer target for the English Championship club.
By Grant Russell
03 March 2010 08:13 AM
Gordon Strachan could make a surprise loan swoop in the Scottish Third Division to bolster Middlesbrough's promotion hopes. The former Celtic boss is chasing Livingston starlet Andy Halliday, a goalscoring left winger, and is believed to have offered the Almondvale club £50,000 to take the player south for the rest of the season, with a view to a permanent transfer in the summer.
Strachan is keen to add to his attacking options but the cash move to take the youngster on loan to the English Championship will be seen as an absurd move by many, despite the player's obvious talents. The Boro boss, who sees his team two points away from play-off contention at present, may however be trying to steal a march on his growing list of rivals for the hot prospect's signature.
Halliday, 18, broke into the Livingston first team in January 2009 under now-Dundee United coach Paul Hegarty, having scored a remarkable 24 goals from midfield in just 17 appearances for Livi's under-19's side last season.
This campaign he has scored 11 in 22 games as the West Lothian side have surged to the top of the Third Division table.
Glasgow-born Halliday, the latest in a long line of youth talent to emerge from the club, is now attracting interest from across the UK with his former club Rangers having sent scouts to monitor his progress, together with representatives from Manchester City, Hearts, Hibs, West Brom, Wigan Athletic, West Ham, Fulham Sunderland and Newcastle amongst others.
His goalscoring form at youth and first team level has led to many mistaking him for a striker but the modest youngster was keen to set the record straight when he spoke to STV Sport earlier in the season.
"I'm actually mistaken for a striker all the time but I'm definitely a left midfielder," Halliday said. "The chances just seem to fall for me.
"I work hard and just try my luck. I've not got a 100% strike rate, but I manage to score quite a few."
After making his second appearance for Livingston after a spell on the bench following his debut in April 2008, Halliday then went on to feature in 12 games in the 2008/08 season. The former Rangers youth player then scored his first senior goal for the Lions in a 2-2 draw at Ross County in May 2009.
Halliday had a spell on trial at English League One side Charlton Athletic earlier this season and also spent time in Italy last campaign on trial with Serie A club Parma, as the West Lothian club's then Italian board looked to forge ties in their homeland.
Should he move on from Livi, he would follow in the footsteps of West Brom's Scotland international Graeme Dorrans, Leeds United winger Robert Snodgrass, Coventry City defender James McPake, Burnley youngster Joe McKee, Dundee hot striking prospect Leigh Griffiths and St Johnstone's highly-rated midfielder Murray Davidson in leaving within the past 18 months to make their names on a higher stage, having been reared by the team's exceptional youth development system.
Their seemingly endless string of talent doesn't end there, with central defender Cameron MacDonald, triplets Kyle, Devon and Sheldon Jacobs - and their older brother Keaghan - and young striker Mark McNulty all tipped to follow in their former team-mates' footsteps.
http://www.imscouting.com/global-news-article/Feature-Three-Egyptian-players-to-watch-in-friendly-with-England/6194/
Other interesting players in the Egyptian squad are veteran goalkeeper Essam El Hadary, extremely talented attacking midfielder/ left winger Shikabala (who may start as a substitute) and Mohamed Nagy 'Geddo'. Geddo was the top scorer in the recent African Nations Cup and is a player who came out of nowhere to become a true star, regularly coming off the bench to impress during Egypt's triumphant African Cup of Nations campaign. Since the tournament ended though, Geddo has not impressed playing for his side Al Ittihad. He has been seemingly affected by transfer links to European sides including Sunderland, Fulham and Wolves and he may take part in tonight's game only as a substitute.
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/34956/Three_overrated_Sunderland_players_.aspx
Steed Malbranque – Sunderland's current slump owes itself greatly to the side's chronic lack of creativity, which may come as a surprise to outsiders remarking on the presence of Andy Reid and former Fulham talisman Malbranque. The Frenchman was one of the league's hottest properties during his Craven Cottage days but appeared to lose his way a bit at Tottenham Hotspur. The downward trend has continued at the Stadium of Light, where he has proven to be about as useful as a baguette to a batsman. Dubious fitness or Steve Bruce's somewhat agricultural tactics could be the factors here. Still, he's got to be a better option on the right than Frazier Campbell. Perhaps the attack-inclined Alan Hutton will help him out on the right hand side.
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/34958/Morning_Tittle-Tattle_Wenger_still_keen_on_Melo_Torres_reveals_Barcelona_preference_Higuain_alerts_Premier_League_giants_Everton_lead_Dorrans_chase__Nani_encourages_Veloso_swoop.aspx
Everton FC are the frontrunners in the race for Championship star Graham Dorrans. The Scottish international has been an instrumental force for West Bromwich Albion this season and has received covetous glances from Arsenal FC, Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham FC, Sunderland FC and Blackburn Rovers, however David Moyes is the strong favourite for the 22-year-old. (The Sun)
http://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/player-ratings-2086618.html
Player Ratings
Wednesday March 03 2010
Shay Given 6
Ponderous with an early kick, but was otherwise unable to do much about the keynote incidents of the match. Did well to palm an early free-kick from Adriano over the bar, but was powerless to prevent Andrews own goal and became increasingly irate with his defenders amid second half chaos.
Stephen Kelly 5
Fulham defender made positive start, trying to supplement the attack before showing defensive prowess to get in the way of an Adriano strike which would have really tested Given. Quiet enough thereafter as Brazilians took control and Robinho continually slipped away from his marker.
Kevin Kilbane 6
Considering Kilbane has spent most of the winter on the subs bench, he performed reasonably well compared to some of his struggles in the World Cup campaign. First Brazilian goal did come from his side of the park, but arose from quick break that caught midfield napping. Spent most of second half chasing.
Paul McShane 5
After a competent opening, he started to become prominent for the wrong reasons by felling Kaka to start an ongoing battle with the Real Madrid star that was a sideshow to the opening goal. Had a fierce second half row with Given as well before ponderous nature almost gifted Brazil a present.
Sean St Ledger 6
A test for St Ledger in that his Irish education has primarily come alongside the steady hand of Richard Dunne. Has been consigned to Championship football since Paris and did well in the first half, but was increasingly exposed as game developed, with one second half howler to gift a chance to Dani Alves.
Glenn Whelan 6
Stoke man was prominent in the first half, although he gave the ball away on a couple of significant occasions -- particularly annoying Robbie Keane with one sloppy touch that brought a promising move to a conclusion. Combative enough before being called ashore early in the second half.
Liam Lawrence 5
Preferred to Aiden McGeady and Stephen Hunt after his fine play-off displays, even though he has been largely under-utilised at club level. Showed a degree of rustiness on the night and faded out of the game after the interval, compared to the first half when he was industrious enough in terms of his output.
Keith Andrews 5
Physical as ever in a difficult midfield battle, and began brightly as the Brazilians endured a difficult start. Unfortunate to find himself in the wrong place to open the scoring in the worst manner possible and was over-run after the interval when the opposition owned the ball and Whelan departed.
Kevin Doyle 7
The Wolves striker was given a resounding vote of confidence by Trapattoni before the game and proved that he can be a handful for defenders with his bustling energy and physical prowess. The closest he came to end product was a first half header that Julio Cesar was alert to palm away.
Robbie Keane 6
The Irish skipper started the game deeper than usual, roving in an attempt to offer creativity and support the midfield. Competent in that respect. However, he suffered a frustrating evening in and around the penalty box and seemed a bit more agitated than usual, dishing out a few bollockings to both team-mates and opponents.
Damien Duff 6
Probably the form player of this Irish side at club level and looked confident in his early involvement, when providing Maicon with a few hairy moments and producing some decent crosses from set-piece situations -- although it was a poor attempt that led to the Brazilian goal when a pass to Lawrence looked to be the better alternative.
http://www.safc.com/news/20100303/noble-makes-england-u19-debut_2256213_1982489
Noble makes England U19 debut
Ryan Noble came off the bench for England under-19s in Holland last night.
Sunderland starlet Ryan Noble made his England U19 bow as the young Lions drew 1-1 with the Netherlands in Waalwijk.
The 17-year-old striker came off the bench just after the hour for his first taste of international football at under-19 level as England were denied a win by a late equaliser.
Jacob Mellis gave England a 7th-minute lead when he latched on to a pass from captain Matthew Briggs before finishing coolly.
The goal looked like it would be enough for Noel Blake's youngsters, but they were pegged back four minutes from time when a set-piece struck the unlucky Reece Brown and deflected in.
Noble, who has scored 34 goals for the reserve and youth teams this season, will now return to Wearside ahead of Saturday's Academy derby with Middlesbrough.
http://www.sunderlandecho.com/editors-choice/Rowell-SAFC-v-Fulham-was.6114961.jp
Rowell: SAFC v Fulham was Sunday Worst
Gary Rowell
Published Date: 02 March 2010
This football column could easily be just one long diatribe against Sunderland this week and I don't think anyone could complain if it were.
The performance against Fulham was desperate and the game overall was horrible to watch.
More than 40,000 fans turned up to the Stadium of Light but there was rarely any danger of a game breaking out for them.
And anyone who tried to brand that as "entertainment", might find themselves in trouble under the Trade Descriptions Act.
It was an awful game and there's no point in shying away from it.
But we also have to appreciate that every performance at the moment is being cast in an unfavourable light through being viewed in the context of this seemingly never-ending winless run.
Shortcomings are amplified, missed opportunities count double in a run like this and patience gets ever shorter as the anxiety levels rise.
This run – which now extends to an agonising 14 league games without a win – is like a millstone around the neck, dragging down both the supporters and the players.
Until Sunderland can get that win, you won't see the same sort of team you saw at the start of the season.
And me, the fans, the players and I'm sure Steve Bruce will agree that it doesn't matter how that win comes – just so long as it comes.
After the Arsenal game and right up to match-day, I think the one phrase I heard over and over and over again was: "I don't care if it's an ugly 1-0 win against Fulham. I don't mind if we win ugly."
The performance has now become completely secondary to the result.
People really don't care how it happens or how awful the game is, just so long as they get that win.
Unfortunately on Sunday, they got only half the equation – an ugly game and still no win!
The worrying side of this is that these four home games we had pinpointed to turn our season around are now down to three, with no real progress.
And the most hurtful thing for my point of view is that this was the one game I thought we had most chance of winning. I know Bolton, the team we face next week, are below us, but I think that will be a tougher game than Fulham.
Fulham were coming in off a tough midweek game in the Europa League in the Ukraine. They'd travelled thousands of miles, had a punishing travel schedule and then returned home to find they were facing their longest away trip of their domestic season.
On top of that, they had to field the same starting 11 that they put out against the Ukranians.
If Bruce could have picked a time and a venue to face Fulham this season, he would have chosen the circumstances Fulham were facing at the end of last week.
But Sunderland just never got going in the final third and the Fulham defence, far from having tired bodies stretched to the limit, must have had one of their easiest afternoons of the season.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/10/03/03/SOCCER_England_Under-21_Pearce.html&TEAMHD=soccer
Defender Chris Smalling admits seeing the likes of Shawcross, Leighton Baines and Joe Hart called into the senior set-up has given the rest of the players added incentive on Wednesday night.
"It drives everyone on," he said. "The competition's very healthy and we all get on in training, and to see players like that step up gives us the chance to go out there in the big game that it is and hopefully everyone can step up."
England drew their away fixture with Greece last year but Smalling, who will join Manchester United from Fulham at the end of the season, is confident they can take the three points this time.
"When we went over there we had a very good game but I think, coming to our home ground, hopefully we can exert the early pressure and get the win to put us at the top of the group," he added.
"Hopefully this game will put us on the road to that major tournament and we're all looking forward to that next summer."
Support The Academy
Wednesday 3rd March 2010
Fulham FC News
Fulham's U18 Academy side are replicating the success of the Club's First Team in cup competitions this season.
Once Roy Hodgson's side have battled Spurs for a place in the Semi-Final of the FA Cup this Saturday, it will be the turn of Fulham's U18 side on Tuesday evening.
Gary Brazil's side will be challenging Aston Villa in the FA Youth Cup Quarter Final on Tuesday night (KO 7pm) and supporters are encouraged to head down to the Cottage and get behind the boys.
Gary Brazil's side have earned their place in the FA Youth Cup Quarter Final following impressive wins over Stockport, Bolton and Ipswich.
Tickets can be bought (cash only) on the turnstiles at the Cottage on Tuesday night.
FA Youth Cup Ticket Prices
Adults: £4
Concessions & Juniors: £1
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/AcademyQuarterFinal.aspx#ixzz0h7O9gGUv (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/AcademyQuarterFinal.aspx#ixzz0h7O9gGUv)
http://betting.betfair.com/football/fa-cup/fa-cup-betting-expect-plenty-of-goals-this-weekend-030310.html
A Cup Betting: Expect plenty of goals this weekend
FA Cup / Andrew Atherley / 03 March 2010 / Leave a comment
Bobby Zamora's Fulham host Spurs in the FA Cup this weekend and over 2.5 goals is definitely the call
Andrew Atherley tells us why the stats don't lie and backing over 2.5 goals across the board in this weekend's FA Cup ties should prove to be a winning formula.
"Looking at this weekend's all-Premier ties, over 2.5 goals is favoured in Chelsea v Stoke at 1.66 – just as you would expect in a league match. But in the other two matches in that category – Fulham v Tottenham and Portsmouth v Birmingham – there appears to be some value in over 2.5 goals, which is a firm outsider in both cases."
Three of this weekend's FA Cup quarter-finals are all-Premier League affairs and a key question for Betfair punters is whether to treat these matches any differently because they are in the cup instead of the league.
In one important respect at least, the answer is probably yes. The Premier League five-year average for under/over 2.5 goals is 54% in favour of unders, but all-Premier League ties at this stage of the FA Cup tend more strongly towards over 2.5 goals - the five-year average is 57% overs.
That average comes from a much smaller sample than the league figures, but extending the period to ten seasons there is an even stronger trend towards over 2.5 goals in all-Premier League meetings in the FA Cup, with 68% over 2.5 goals (a figure that doesn't change when replays are included).
Looking at this weekend's all-Premier ties, over 2.5 goals is favoured in Chelsea v Stoke at 1.66 - just as you would expect in a league match. But in the other two matches in that category - Fulham v Tottenham and Portsmouth v Birmingham - there appears to be some value in over 2.5 goals, which is a firm outsider in both cases.
Over 2.5 goals is 2.22 to back at Fulham and 2.46 at Portsmouth, even though the stats indicate that matches at this stage of the competition tend to produce more goals than the normal expectation - probably because teams are more likely to go for goals in a knockout tie.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5783
Random Fulham photo of the day
by Dan on March 2, 2010
The teamsheet from Sunderland.
(http://hammyend.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/70293247.jpg)
http://www.thefa.com/England/MensUnder-21Team/MatchCentre/2010/EnglandGreece/MatchPreviews/ChrisSmalling.aspx
Men's Under-21 Team
Smalling eyes big chance
By Jamie Bradbury - Wednesday, 03 March, 2010
The Fulham defender aims for England glory against Greece.
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England Under-21s defender Chris Smalling is hoping he can build on a whirlwind season as the Three Lions prepare to face Greece in Doncaster this evening.
The Fulham man recently agreed to join Premier League giants Manchester United in the summer, 18 months after his arrival at Craven Cottage from non-League Maidstone.
He has also collected three caps for Stuart Pearce's men, and has started the last two games, including the 1-0 victory over Portugal at Wembley in November.
Having made his Fulham debut from the bench on the last day of last season his first start came against CSKA Moscow in September. Smalling's first appearance for the Under-21s arrived in Holland in August and after just nine games for the Cottagers he agreed to move to Old Trafford in the summer.
"At the minute things are going at such a fast rate, it's one thing after another," Smalling admitted. "It's all exciting at the minute, and came out of the blue. I was very much concentrating on Fulham, but it's a huge opportunity for me.
"When you have one of the biggest clubs in the world considering you it's just a massive compliment. Everything was done in January, now I can just focus on playing for Fulham.
"We started the season strong, we're still in two competitions, so hopefully we can finish well."
Next on his agenda, though, is Greece at the Keepmoat Stadium, where a win will put England in pole position in Group Nine with two games to go. And there's an added incentive for Smalling and his team-mates, after seeing a number of Under-21s make the step up into Fabio Capello's Senior set-up.
"That certainly drives everyone on," said the 20-year-old. "The competition's healthy in this squad and we all get on in training, so to see players step up gives us the boost to go out there and make the most of our opportunities."
And Smalling knows the importance of a result against the current group leaders this evening.
"I think when we went over there it was a very good game. We got the draw but hopefully here, at home, we can exert the early pressure and we can get that win to put us clear at the top of the group.
"This game will hopefully put us on the road to a major tournament and it's something we'll all want to be a part of next summer."
Smalling's progress into top-flight football and England recognition is a similar path previously trodden by his Under-21s Coach. Pearce was a player with non-League Wealdstone before he moved to Coventry City, then Nottingham Forest, on the way to 78 England caps.
But while he would love to follow in Pearce's footsteps, he has also drawn comparisons to another England defender, Rio Ferdinand, who he may soon be linking up with at Old Trafford, but the Greenwich-born defender was modest with the praise.
"My first Under-21s call-up was in August and he's always been there and has offered a helping hand," Smalling said of the Coach. "Where he came from he's proved that as long as you work hard and have the ability then you can go far in the game.
"When you're young and you see someone playing in the same position, you'll look at how they play. Rio has played so many games for Manchester United and England and is considered a world class player. But I'm a long way off being compared to him."
Fulham v Spurs
FA Cup Quarter-Final
Saturday 6 March
Kick-Off 17:20
The Whites will be looking to reach Wembley for the first time since the FA Cup Final in 1975 when Roy Hodgson's in-form side take on Spurs in the FA Cup Quarter-Final at Craven Cottage this Saturday, 6th March (kick-off 5:20pm).
With a place in the Semi-Finals at stake, Roy and the team need your support as they look to take another step closer to Wembley!
The Club would like to recreate the same wonderful atmosphere recently produced at our home match against FC Shakhtar Donetsk. Your support made the difference and will, once again, prove vital on Saturday.
With the match set to sell out in the coming days, we urge you to purchase your tickets now to avoid missing out on this special occasion.
Buy tickets now|
Hospitality Options
Alternatively, why not watch the game in style with one of our last remaining hospitality packages. Hospitality has sold out in many areas and we now only have limited availability in our Riverside restaurant, Executive Suites and on our fantastic Harrods Matchday Experience.
Read more |
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/MapsandPlans/stadium-map-spurs.jpg)
On-sale dates
Tickets are now on sale to Season Ticket Holders and Members (4 tickets)
Season Ticket Holders who are on the Home Cup Tie Scheme will automatically have their ticket loaded onto their Season Ticket Access Card. If your are on the Cup Scheme and your payment card details have recently changed, please inform the Ticket Office on 0870 442 1234 opt 3 (Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm).
Buy tickets now|
Advance booking prices
Adults £25
Concessions (over 65 and under 21s) £15
Juniors (under 16) £10
Matchday price
Adults £30
Concessions (over 65 and under 21s) £20
Juniors (under 16) £15
How to Buy Tickets
buy tickets online - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day. Save on booking fees by booking online*
by phone on 0870 442 1234 (option 1) - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day
in person from the Ticket Office: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm
by fax 0207 384 4810 (download printable form )
by postal application to FFC Ticket Office, Stevenage Road, Fulham, SW6 6HH enclosing a stamped addressed envelope (download printable form )
Seatwave - the official fan-to-fan ticket exchange
Thomas Cook - match breaks for all Fulham FC home games
* Lower booking fees compared to telephone booking
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FACup6thRound.aspx#ixzz0h7QTTPb3 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FACup6thRound.aspx#ixzz0h7QTTPb3)
Fulham – Tottenham
The Cottagers held the Black Cats to a stalemate last Sunday taking their Premier league streak to five consecutive undefeated encounters. However, having failed to shoot on target at least once, it was no surprise that the Fulham goalkeeper was the best man on the pitch for Hodgson's side.
Back home Fulham should play more at ease although there is no denying that the four games following this FA Cup encounter will serve as a distraction. They will be meeting the two Manchester teams and Juventus twice.
Ahead of the visit to Juventus' Olimpico Hodgson might give a rest to few of his key men. He does want to make a better impression than that of his last return to Italy when Fulham lost 2-1 at Roma's Olimpico.
Tottenham, which defeated a hard-headed Everton at White Hart Lane last weekend, have targeted the fourth place after managing to climb up there on level points with Mancini's City.
This match does prove a distraction for both teams so there should be no surprises if it ends in the same manner it finished when they met at Craven Cottage on Boxing Day, that is 0-0.
Bentley and King might make a return in this match for Tottenham. Fulham should recover Konchesky and are waiting on Murphy for a comeback.
Verdict: X
Neither manager will want to waste much energies on this game. Fulham have their sights set on the Europa League whilst city rivals Tottenham have targeted qualification to the Champions League.
Read more: http://www.bettingexpert.com/league_preview.php?id=583#ixzz0h7XntlGt (http://www.bettingexpert.com/league_preview.php?id=583#ixzz0h7XntlGt)
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/34983/Burnley_Fulham_and_Wigan_in_shock_battle_for_Europe.aspx
Burnley, Fulham and Wigan in shock battle for Europe
Author: Nigel Brown
Posted on:03 March 2010 - 12:45
Premier League trio Burnley, Wigan Atheltic, and Fulham are ready to battle it out for a surprise Europa League spot. England are currently third in the UEFA Fair Play rankings and if they finish the campaign in the top three one of the Clarets, Cottagers, or Latics would be in pole position to claim a place in Europe next season.
At this point in time Burnley, Wigan Athetic, and Fulham are the highest placed sides who could claim the award. Despite this, Burnley are currently fighting a relegation battle in the Premier League under new manager Brian Laws, and even if the Clarets were relegated they would still be entitled to the European slot if they finish the highest in the Premier League Fair Play table.
Wigan Athletic are aiming for a top half finish in Roberto Martinez's first season, while Fulham are currently fighting it out in the last 16 of the Europa League after beating holders Shakhtar Donetsk to set up a glamour tie against Italian giants Juventus. If Fulham win the Europa League it would mean that the next best placed team in the Fair Play table would claim the slot in the Europa League for next season.
The current standings of the Premier League Fair Table are:
1 Fulham 32 1 34
2 Manchester City 34 2 38
3 Arsenal 41 0 41
4 Manchester United 34 4 42
5 Burnley 38 2 42
6 Aston Villa 41 2 45
7 Chelsea 38 4 46
8 Wigan Athletic 44 1 46
9 Blackburn Rovers 44 2 48
10 Everton 46 2 50
11 Tottenham Hotspur 48 1 50
12 Birmingham 49 1 51
13 Liverpool 43 5 53
14 West Ham United 47 3 53
15 Wolverhampton Wanderers 48 3 54
16 Bolton Wanderers 51 2 55
17 Hull City 49 4 57
18 Stoke City 50 4 58
19 Portsmouth 57 4 65
20 Sunderland 58 6 70
Juventus Screening
Wednesday 3rd March 2010
Fulham FC News Powered by
Roy Hodgson's Team face two-time European Champions Juventus in the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League, with the first leg taking place in Turin on Thursday 11th March.
Don't worry if you can't make it to the game, as you can cheer the Team on with fellow Fulham fans at one of our stylish bars at the Cottage (from 6pm, Thursday 11 March).
We are also offering a great value food and drink deal - a beer and a pie for just £5 .
Arguably the biggest match in the Club's history, this is a game you won't want to miss!
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Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/JuventusScreening.aspx#ixzz0h7uHhBN8 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/March/JuventusScreening.aspx#ixzz0h7uHhBN8)
