Fulham primed for Europa win
FULHAM goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is confident his side can convert its Premier League form into a Europa League win at home early tomorrow Melbourne time.
Fulham hosts Wisla Krakow at Craven Cottage, needing a positive result to keep qualification from group K in its own hands.
Schwarzer played a key role in his side's first away win of the domestic season, an important 2-0 victory at Wigan on Saturday.
It wasn't always pretty, but the veteran stopper was impressed with his side's clinical edge in attack.
''That definitely wasn't our best performance but I think there were patches in the game where we played well,'' he said.
Fulham suffered a 1-0 defeat when it last clashed with Wisla two weeks ago.
Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/sport/soccer/fulham-primed-for-europa-win-20111102-1mvmx.html#ixzz1ccYUV9p5 (http://www.theage.com.au/sport/soccer/fulham-primed-for-europa-win-20111102-1mvmx.html#ixzz1ccYUV9p5)
Harry Redknapp expected to take charge of Tottenham against Fulham at weekend after undergoing minor heart surgery
The club have confirmed that the procedure to unblock coronary arteries has been successful and the manager will be discharged in the next 48 hours
Harry Redknapp is expected to return to the Tottenham dugout for Sunday's trip to Fulham after undergoing minor heart surgery on Wednesday.
The Spurs manager, 64, was taken to a private London hospital on Tuesday night and had a coronary angioplasty operation on Wednesday to relieve a minor blockage in his arteries.
Tottenham released a statement on Wednesday afternoon to confirm that Redknapp's surgery had gone according to plan.
"The club can report that earlier today Harry successfully had two stents inserted to unblock coronary arteries," the statement said. "He is in excellent spirits and due to be discharged from hospital in the next 48 hours."
Chairman Daniel Levy added: "We are delighted the operation went so smoothly and successfully. Knowing Harry he will want to rush back, but it's important that he only does so when he has recovered properly."
Redknapp said: "I feel fine. I'm hoping I can be back at work in a couple of days."
Tottenham first gave notice that Redknapp would undergo surgery on Tuesday night when they revealed he had been booked in for "a medical procedure" that would rule him out of the club's Europa League trip to Rubin Kazan. Spurs have flown to Russia ahead of the match on Thursday evening.
According to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), a coronary angioplasty is a technique for treating coronary heart disease and angina, helping to improve blood supply to the heart muscle. Most patients can go home the same day or the next day and most people find that they are "back to normal after a few days", the BHF website says.
Assistant manager Kevin Bond and first-team coach Joe Jordan will take charge of the team against Rubin Kazan. Group A leaders Spurs travel to Russia with a two-point cushion over POAK Salonika, knowing a victory would guarantee their place in the knockout stages.
Although the club have not divulged when Redknapp is to return to the dugout, Goal.com understands that the former West Ham and Portsmouth manager expects to take charge of Spurs' Premier League match against Fulham on Sunday.
Redknapp lives in the Dorset resort of Sandbanks and makes the 250-mile round trip to the club's training ground most days along with Bond, although he does also stay in a hotel in Canary Wharf a couple of nights a week.
The former Portsmouth manager, who has been in charge of Spurs for three years, admitted in March 2010 that he had started talking heart pills upon the advice of his doctors, but stressed it was not a major problem.
Writing in his newspaper column, Redknapp then said: "About a year ago I needed to take heart pills and I am still taking them regularly... I am absolutely fine and have no worries about my health but this game can make the most mild-mannered of people explode as when you are sitting on the bench you get eaten up inside from first to last whistle."
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/11/02/2739498/harry-redknapp-expected-to-take-charge-of-tottenham-against? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/11/02/2739498/harry-redknapp-expected-to-take-charge-of-tottenham-against?)
AJ wants fresh Fulham approach
Fulham striker Andy Johnson believes his team-mates may need to start doing some play-acting themselves in Europe.
The Cottagers entertain Wisla Krakow in Europa League Group K on Thursday two weeks after they suffered a 1-0 defeat in Poland.
Fulham were hindered by Moussa Dembele's first-half dismissal with Johnson accusing Wisla's Gervasio Nunez of influencing the referee.
Johnson believes the home side need to be clever and he feels that doing a bit of simulation themselves might make things fairer for all.
"I think we'll have to approach the game at our place differently," said Johnson. "There's nothing we can do about the ref.
"But I think you need to be careful. You need to be a bit wiser in Europe. That's always been the case.
"There's a lot of diving, a lot of play-acting going on. We've just got to be clever.
"Maybe we need to do it a bit ourselves just to keep up with these teams and make things fair."
http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/7287157/AJ-wants-fresh-Fulham-approach? (http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/7287157/AJ-wants-fresh-Fulham-approach?)
Cottagers set for winger talks
Fulham are battling with Serie A outfit Atalanta for the signature of Swedish Under-21 winger Mervan Celik in the January window.
Fulham's Scandanavian scout was in Gothenburg last month to watch the 21-year-old score for GAIS against IFK in the derby and his report has sparked off some interest in the player - who is out of contract next year.
Atalanta have also been closely linked with the player in recent weeks but Swedish sources claim his agent will travel to London this week for talks with two mystery clubs.
However, his agent, Hasan Cetinyaka has denied that the trip is planned and was quick to dismiss the stories about Fulham's interest.
He said: "I can not confirm that it is even Fulham. There may be two others. Perhaps Tottenham and Arsenal. It could be Everton."
Cetinyaka added that he will not influence Celik over his next move.
"It is up to Mervan himself," he said.
"He is speaking to people and thinking about the club selection right now. But he will not sign for any club this week."
Fulham development squad member Alexander Kacaniklic is a member of the Swedish Under-21 squad alongside Celik.
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/cottagers-set-for-winger-talks-1327095.html?#.TrI0G2AlE98 (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/cottagers-set-for-winger-talks-1327095.html?#.TrI0G2AlE98)
Fulham keen on new Swedish starlet
Fulham are battling with Serie A outfit Atalanta for the signature of Swedish Under-21 winger Mervan Celik in the January window.
Fulham's Scandanavian scout was in Gothenburg last month to watch the 21-year-old score for GAIS against IFK in the derby and his report has sparked off some interest in the player - who is out of contract next year.
Atalanta have also been closely linked with the player in recent weeks but Swedish sources claim his agent will travel to London this week for talks with two mystery clubs.
However, his agent, Hasan Cetinyaka has denied that the trip is planned and was quick to dismiss the stories about Fulham's interest.
He said: "I can not confirm that it is even Fulham. There may be two others. Perhaps Tottenham and Arsenal. It could be Everton."
Cetinyaka added that he will not influence Celik over his next move.
"It is up to Mervan himself," he said.
"He is speaking to people and thinking about the club selection right now. But he will not sign for any club this week."
Fulham development squad member Alexander Kacaniklic is a member of the Swedish Under-21 squad alongside Celik.
http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/fulham-keen-on-new-swedish-starlet-1327095.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/fulham-keen-on-new-swedish-starlet-1327095.html?)
Game preview - Wisla Krakow (h)
Unless inconsistency yet again grabs ahold of our mid-season and strangles all passable life out of it, the visit of Wisla Krakow on Thursday night should be one to enjoy and one to gaze upon with a comparative feeling of safety. It could even be one where Jol's outlandish promise of total football actually comes to fruition - but maybe I'm getting ahead of myself.
A win isn't a given when we take on our Polish opponents in the 20:05 kick off, but if the word 'revenge' sits in the vocabulary of merely half our men, then surely the sheer presence of Gervasio Nunez on our humble Craven Cottage turf will provide stimulus enough get one over our group K rivals.
Alas, revenge isn't always enough.
Perhaps a move for Diego Milito is a somewhat uncouth one, but it shows a degree of self belief and such a sentiment is something we certainly lacked in our visit to Wisla barely two weeks ago. While the sending off of Moussa Dembele was unwarranted and controversial at best, Jol's men weren't up to the job and a draw would have been fortunate - if not a little flattering.
Arguably, then, the yet more fortunate away win at Wigan on Saturday will have done the Cottagers a boundless number of favours at it has instilled a sense that winning ugly is still a plausibility. We're not quite invincible yet, but we're on our way there.
And while we've looked at stabilising our domestic season while sandwiching European non-dramas, Wisla have set about proving that away form is one of their undeniable strengths. The Polish side have won two away games on the bounce, before falling at home in the League to TS Podbeskidzie Bielsko-Biała
Wisla have few injury worries, but the visitor's Osman Chavez will join Moussa Dembele in watching from the sidelines after both were sent off in the first leg.
Aaron Hughes and Orlando Sa will more-than-likely miss out through injury.
Predicted Line-up: Schwarzer; Riise, Hangeland, Senderos, Baird; Dempsey, Murphy, Sidwell, Duff; Zamora, Johnson
Score prediction: Fulham 2 - 0 Wisla Krakow
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/11/2/2532547/game-preview-wisla-krakow-h? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/11/2/2532547/game-preview-wisla-krakow-h?)
JOL TO NAME STRONG FULHAM SIDE
Fulham manager Martin Jol will name a strong side for Thursday's Europa League Group K tie with Wisla Krakow.
The Cottagers will be looking to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland, although they will be without Moussa Dembele.
The Belgium international was sent off in the away tie so is banned for Thursday's match and is joined on the sidelines by Orlando Sa (hamstring). Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh) are out.
Fulham (from): Schwarzer, Etheridge, Kelly, Riise, Hangeland, Baird, Senderos, Grygera, Briggs, Sidwell, Kasami, Murphy, Gecov, Duff, Etuhu, Dempsey, Johnson, Zamora.
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/11/02/SOCCER_Fulham.html (http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/11/02/SOCCER_Fulham.html)
Inside Fulham Podcast
In the latest edition of the Inside Fulham Podcast, Martin Jol and Clint Dempsey look back on the win over Wigan.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/PostWiganPodcast.aspx?#ixzz1ccacFeU6 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/PostWiganPodcast.aspx?#ixzz1ccacFeU6)
Fulham v Wisla Krakow preview
Team news for Thursday night's Europa League clash between Fulham and Wisla Krakow at Craven Cottage (8.05pm).
(http://images.football365.com/11/10/640/Moussa-Dembele_2668240.jpg)
Dembele: Suspended for Wisla Krakow clash
Fulham manager Martin Jol will name a strong side for the Group K tie.
The Cottagers will be looking to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland, although they will be without Moussa Dembele.
The Belgium international was sent off in the away tie so is banned for Thursday's match and is joined on the sidelines by Orlando Sa (hamstring). Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh) are out.
Fulham (from): Schwarzer, Etheridge, Kelly, Riise, Hangeland, Baird, Senderos, Grygera, Briggs, Sidwell, Kasami, Murphy, Gecov, Duff, Etuhu, Dempsey, Johnson, Zamora.
http://www.football365.com/match/3447365/preview? (http://www.football365.com/match/3447365/preview?)
Fulham boss Jol on a revenge mission against Wisla Krakow
Zamora, Johnson, Hangeland and Schwarzer all named in the squad
Fulham manager Martin Jol will be looking for revenge in tomorrows Europa League Group K tie with Wisla Krakow.
The Cottagers lost 1-0 defeat in Poland, although they will be without Mousa Dembele,
The Belgium international was sent off in Poland so is banned for tomorrows match and Orlando Sa (hamstring), Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh) are out with injuries.
Squad: Schwarzer, Etheridge, Kelly, Riise, Hangeland, Baird, Senderos, Grygera, Briggs, Sidwell, Kasami, Murphy, Gecov, Duff, Etuhu, Dempsey, Johnson, Zamora.
http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_boss_jol_on_a_revenge_mission_against_wisla_krakow_1_1115578 (http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_boss_jol_on_a_revenge_mission_against_wisla_krakow_1_1115578)
Jol won't accept play-acting
Martin Jol insists no Fulham player would play act in the same way that saw Moussa Dembele sent off against Wisla Krakow last month.
The incident occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.
The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand the Belgium international a straight red card.
The Cottagers face the Polish champions once again on Thursday night in Europa League Group K and Jol is keen to make amends for an "awful night" in Poland.
"I would have a word with [my player if they did what Nunez did] because it is not our style, he said. "You won't see that in our team.
"I felt the [referee] was quite experienced so it is about momentum.
"He has to make these decisions and probably in hindsight he would have seen it [was a mistake] because it was the fourth official that probably called it.
"It is a bit of teamwork so I don't want to blame him but it was certainly an awful match.
"If we had got a result we would be fine, you know?
"But we got reduced to 10 men and lost so it was almost like everything was for nothing and that was awful."
He added: "I told everybody what I thought about it [at the time]. The only other thing is [Dembele should not have raised his hands]
"The rules are if you raise your hands, you are probably going to get a red card and that is what happened.
"But I still feel we were hard done by because it was not even a push on the chest or the face, it was on the shoulder."
While Dembele is banned for Thursday's match, Jol is expected to name a strong side as his side look to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland.
The result at Stadion Miejski leaves the Cottagers second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit FC Twente.
Both Odense BK and Wisla lie within a point of Fulham and Jol admits it is important to get a result against the latter tomorrow.
"It is important for most of the teams to quality, although English teams will say it is not the biggest thing in the world," he said.
"I think Fulham raised their profile in Europe a couple of years ago [when they reached the final]so there is a culture in this squad that they want to do well and I agree with that.
"Twente play a weaker team in Odense tomorrow so we have to take things in our hands.
"If we get a good result tomorrow we are halfway there."
http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/7287500/Jol-won-t-accept-play-acting? (http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/7287500/Jol-won-t-accept-play-acting?)
Fulham boss Martin Jol: It's important to get through
"It is important for most of the teams to qualify"
Fulham boss Martin Jol believes it is vital for Fulham to qualify for the next round of the Europa League.
Despite many English managers, including the Dutchman, naming weaker sides for some games in this tournament the Whites boss still wants to get through to the next phase.
"It is important for most of the teams to qualify, although English teams will say it is not the biggest thing in the world," he said.
"I think Fulham raised their profile in Europe a couple of years ago (when they lost in the final to a late Diego Forlan strike) so there is a culture in this squad that they want to do well and I agree with that.
"Twente play a weaker team in Odense tomorrow so we have to take things in our hands.
"If we get a good result tomorrow we are halfway there."
Jol also believes Mousa Dembele was treated harshly by the referee, although understands why the official sent him off.
Dembele pushed Wisla Krakow's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.
The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face, despite replays clearly showing he was pushed in the shoulder, leading to the Belgium international being sent off.
"The rules are if you raise your hands, you are probably going to get a red card and that is what happened," Jol said.
"But I still feel we were hard done by because it was not even a push on the chest or the face, it was on the shoulder."
The Whites are second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit FC Twente.
http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_boss_martin_jol_it_s_important_to_get_through_1_1115612? (http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_boss_martin_jol_it_s_important_to_get_through_1_1115612?)
Krakow to face strong Cottagers outfit
Manager Martin Jol will name a strong side for Fulham's Europa League Group K tie with Wisla Krakow.
The Cottagers will be looking to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland, when Jol left out Bryan Ruiz, Danny Murphy and Bobby Zamora, although they will be without Moussa Dembele.
The Belgium international was sent off in the away tie so is banned for the match and is joined on the sidelines by Orlando Sa (hamstring). Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh) are out.
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/krakow-to-face-strong-cottagers-outfit-1327139.html?#.TrI2r2AlE98 (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/krakow-to-face-strong-cottagers-outfit-1327139.html?#.TrI2r2AlE98)
Bulls sign Peniket
Hereford have signed teenage striker Richard Peniket on an initial month-long loan deal from Fulham.
The 18-year-old is highly rated at Craven Cottage and attracted interest from Manchester United prior to joining the London club from Walsall in 2009.
He has yet to make a first-team appearance for the Cottagers but reportedly attracted the interest of Birmingham, Rangers and Wolves in the summer.
The Wales Under-19 international will now get the chance to gain some senior experience at Hereford.
Peniket appeared for the Bulls reserves against Glenn Hoddle's Academy on Tuesday and could be in contention for the game at home to League Two high-flyers Crawley at the weekend.
http://www.footballbuster.com/pages/posts/bulls-sign-peniket3068.php? (http://www.footballbuster.com/pages/posts/bulls-sign-peniket3068.php?)
Must do better!
One of a handful of strikers looking to cement a place in the England squad is Bobby Zamora.
Although at his own admission he needs to play 'a bit better' than he has been recently, admitting as much after the weekend game with Wigan: 'I certainly need to play a bit better than that to be anywhere near the squad.
'I did have an assist for the first goal, but I want to play better than that and I wasn't happy with my performance.'
'Hardworking' strikers, well players in general, is something that I like and admire but at the end of the day strikers are judged by the goals that they score!
The Fulham man is no different and knows he needs to rediscover his touch in front of goal: 'I think goalscoring is what Fabio Capello is looking for in his strikers.
'You can work as hard as you like and the first season I came here, I did the role Moussa did today, which is sitting, screening and running around like a nutter.
'You don't get any credit for that sort of work unless you get a goal. That's what any striker is judged on and I know that's what I'll be judged on.'
Zamora is good enough to be a part of the England squad, the free-scoring Zamora that we saw back along easily so - so that is what is needed again.
Many more misses like that shocker back along against Everton though and his chances take a nosedive...
Read more: http://www.england.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261170#ixzz1cccgfsdZ (http://www.england.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261170#ixzz1cccgfsdZ)
Celik Link?
A transfer rumour a day keeps the speculation ticking away!
Today, the tabloid press has us in direct competition with the Italian side, Atalanta, for the services of a young Swedish winger.
His name is Mervan Celik and at twenty-one years of age is tipped to have a bright future.
Apparently he becomes a free agent in the summer but his club has realized that by moving him on in the January transfer window, they will get a financial reward.
Could this be one to keep an eye on?
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261173#ixzz1ccd18A8B (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261173#ixzz1ccd18A8B)
Two on the Trot!
Getting back to winning ways, especially with the rarity of an away win, should stand us in good stead as we now face two consecutive home games.
With fixtures against Wisla Kracow (Europa League) and Spurs (Premier League), the expectation levels have been raised with it hoped that we`ll witness two wins.
Mark Schwarzer, a Fulham veteran, believes two wins is a possibility, remarking ahead of the clash, this Thursday, with Wisla Kracow,
"You`ve got to show teams the utmost respect but anything can happen and we give ourselves every opportunity of getting a result."
"That has been the case ever since I have been at the club - whoever came to Craven Cottage we`ve always felt we`re in with a chance."
But, pushed to choose, if you could guarantee which of those two games we`d prefer to win, is the answer a no-brainer?
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261176#ixzz1ccdEGBYM (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261176#ixzz1ccdEGBYM)
Fulham v Wisla Krakow
Europa League
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Thursday 3 November Kick-off: 2005 GMT Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio 5 live and live TV coverage on Channel 5
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/56436000/jpg/_56436082_dembele.jpg)
The sending off for Demebele (second right) at Wisla still annoys Jol
Fulham manager Martin Jol will name a strong side for their Europa League Group K tie with Wisla Krakow.
The Cottagers will be looking to avoid a repeat of last month's 1-0 defeat in Poland against Wisla, although they will be without Moussa Dembele.
The Belgium forward was sent off in the away tie so is banned for the home match and is joined on the sidelines by striker Orlando Sa (hamstring).
Defenders Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh) are out.
Jol insists no Fulham player will play-act in the same way that Wisla's Gervasio Nunez did in the first game, leading to Dembele being sent off.
The incident occurred as Dembele pushed over Nunez, after the Wisla midfielder caught him on the back of the ankle.
Nunez went down clutching his face, despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to show Dembele a straight red card.
Jol said: "I would have a word with my player if they did what Nunez did because it is not our style. You won't see that in our team.
"I felt the referee was quite experienced so it is about momentum. He has to make these decisions and probably in hindsight he would have seen it was a mistake because it was the fourth official that probably called it.
"It is a bit of teamwork so I don't want to blame him but it was certainly an awful match.
"If we had got a result, we would be fine. But we got reduced to 10 men and lost so it was almost like everything was for nothing and that was awful."
The 1-0 defeat at Stadion Miejski leaves the Cottagers second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit FC Twente. Both Odense BK and Wisla lie within a point of Fulham.
Jol added: "It is important for most of the teams to quality, although English teams will say it is not the biggest thing in the world.
"I think Fulham raised their profile in Europe a couple of years ago when they reached the final so there is a culture in this squad that they want to do well and I agree with that.
"Twente play a weaker team in Odense so we have to take things in our hands. If we get a good result, we are halfway there."
Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Etheridge, Kelly, Riise, Hangeland, Baird, Senderos, Grygera, Briggs, Sidwell, Kasami, Murphy, Gecov, Duff, Etuhu, Dempsey, Johnson, Zamora.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/15473004.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/15473004.stm?)
Fulham and QPR battle it out for Juventus striker
(http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_news_article_header_image/Amauri_1.jpg)
West-London rivals Fulham and QPR are set for a New Year transfer battle for Juventus outcast Amauri, according to reports in Italy.
The 31-year-old striker has fallen out of favour at the Serie A leaders and was shipped out on loan to Parma last January.
Despite scoring seven goals in just 11 appearances during that spell Amauri has failed to force his way back into the Juve side following his return.
And his agent Giampiero Pocetta has revealed that he is set for a January departure with clubs from England currently interested - and reports have claimed that Fulham and QPR are the two most interested parties.
"It is true that he could leave in January," Pocetta told Tuttojuve. "We are working on it, and not only with clubs from Italy.
"There is serious interest from foreign clubs, including some from England. We need to find a solution that's good for the player and for the club."
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/1245/85/fulham-and-qpr-battle-it-out-juventus-striker? (http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/1245/85/fulham-and-qpr-battle-it-out-juventus-striker?)
Preview: Fulham v Wisla Krakow
Martin Jol is expected to put out a strong Fulham side when the Cottagers host Poland's Wisla Krakow on Thursday.
Fulham are without the suspended Moussa Dembele (pictured) for the Europa League Group K clash, following the Belgium international's much-criticised red card in his side's 1-0 defeat to the Poles a fortnight ago. Bryan Ruiz, meanwhile, is cup-tied.
Defenders Aaron Hughes and Philippe Senderos are both missing as well with thigh injuries, while forward Orlando Sa has a hamstring complaint.
Otherwise, however, home manager Jol has options and will pick a stronger team than the one beaten in his side's first loss in the group. Last time out he opted to rest Danny Murphy and Bobby Zamora, but they are expected to start on Thursday evening.
Fulham go into the game one point clear of their visitors (four to three) and should close on a last 32 place if they can gain revenge with a win. Ruiz's old club FC Twente, who host Fulham on matchday five, currently lead the way with seven points ahead of their renewal of rivalries with Odense on Thursday.
Osman Chavez of Wisla was, like Dembele, sent off in the sides' previous encounter, so he too is suspended. The Poles are expected to, otherwise, start with a similar team to that which defeated Fulham in Krakow, thanks to David Biton netting that game's only goal.
Fulham (from): Schwarzer, Etheridge, Kelly, Riise, Hangeland, Baird, Senderos, Grygera, Briggs, Sidwell, Kasami, Murphy, Gecov, Duff, Etuhu, Dempsey, Johnson, Zamora.
http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2011/11/02/Preview-Fulham-v-Wisla-Krakow-Thurs/gnid-116024/? (http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2011/11/02/Preview-Fulham-v-Wisla-Krakow-Thurs/gnid-116024/?)
Jol - My players won't playact
Fulham boss reflects on Dembele dismissal
Fulham manager Martin Jol insists no players from his team would playact in the same way that saw Moussa Dembele sent off against Wisla Krakow in the Europa League last month.
The incident occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.
The Argentine midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand the Belgium international a straight red card.
The Cottagers face the Polish champions once again on Thursday in Group K and Jol is keen to make amends for an "awful night" in Poland.
"I would have a word with (my player if they did what Nunez did) because it is not our style," he said. "You won't see that in our team.
"I felt the [referee] was quite experienced so it is about momentum.
"He has to make these decisions and probably in hindsight he would have seen it [was a mistake] because it was the fourth official that probably called it.
"It is a bit of teamwork so I don't want to blame him but it was certainly an awful match.
"If we had got a result we would be fine, you know?
Qualification
"But we got reduced to 10 men and lost so it was almost like everything was for nothing and that was awful."
He added: "I told everybody what I thought about it [at the time]. The only other thing is [Dembele should not have raised his hands].
"The rules are if you raise your hands, you are probably going to get a red card and that is what happened.
"But I still feel we were hard done by because it was not even a push on the chest or the face, it was on the shoulder."
The 1-0 defeat for Fulham at the Stadion Miejski leaves the Cottagers second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit Twente.
Both Odense BK and Wisla lie within a point of Fulham and Jol admits it is important to get a result against the latter.
"It is important for most of the teams to quality, although English teams will say it is not the biggest thing in the world," he said.
"I think Fulham raised their profile in Europe a couple of years ago [when they reached the final] so there is a culture in this squad that they want to do well and I agree with that.
"Twente play a weaker team in Odense tomorrow so we have to take things in our hands.
"If we get a good result tomorrow we are halfway there."
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7287601/? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7287601/?)
Dempsey keen to keep destiny in Fulham's hands
A scorer of one of Fulham FC's most famous European goals, Clint Dempsey is eager to avenge the matchday three loss to Wisła Kraków and consolidate a top-two place in Group K.
(http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Photo/competitions/Comp_Matches/01/70/97/54/1709754_w2.jpg)
Clint Dempsey watched on TV when Fulham lost in Poland two weeks ago
©Getty Images
A key member of the Fulham FC team that reached the inaugural final, Clint Dempsey is familiar with the drama which can unfold on UEFA Europa League nights at Craven Cottage.
For as long as the United States international remains with the west London club, the striker-cum-winger will always be remembered for his goal, a delicate chip, which capped a stunning 5-4 aggregate victory over Juventus and sent them through to the quarter-finals in 2009/10.
Yet as he looked to Thursday's meeting with Wisła Kraków, the side who defeated Fulham 1-0 a fortnight ago, Dempsey hopes for a more straightforward passage this time around, into the round of 32. The Cottagers have little room for error in Group K, however − they are second, a point clear of Thursday's opponents and Odense BK. The 28-year-old appreciates how significant a home win could be.
"It's an important game for us and we definitely need the points," said Dempsey, one of Fulham's longest serving player having joined in January 2007 from New England Revolution. "We don't want to be waiting until the last game or hoping other results to go our way. Hopefully we'll keep our destiny in our hands and get the right result. We want to get out of the group because we want to go on a nice little run and make the most of being in the competition."
Dempsey knows all about a lengthy European journey, having played in 13 of Fulham's 19 matches en route to the 2010 showpiece and a 2-1 extra-time defeat by Club Atlético de Madrid in Hamburg. "I have some great memories playing in these games, getting to the Europa League final last time we were in was something I'll never forget," he added.
"It's nice to be in this competition because you get the opportunity to play against teams from all over." Fulham did not enjoy matchday three, when they had Moussa Dembélé sent off in the first half before succumbing to David Biton's goal on the hour. Yet Dempsey, a scorer in Saturday's 2-0 win at Wigan Athletic FC, says Thursday's game will not be like the one in Poland.
"Because we were a man down it was difficult to press them," added Dempsey, who watched the game on the TV having been rested by Martin Jol. "Given space and time on the ball they can hurt you but you'll see a different game tomorrow."
http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2012/matches/round=2000272/match=2007369/prematch/preview/index.html?rss=1709792+Dempsey+keen+to+keep+destiny+in+Fulham%27s+hands (http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2012/matches/round=2000272/match=2007369/prematch/preview/index.html?rss=1709792+Dempsey+keen+to+keep+destiny+in+Fulham%27s+hands)
Boss reveals Polish lesson learned
Martin Jol insists no Fulham player would ever 'play act' in the same way that saw Moussa Dembele sent off against Wisla Krakow.
The incident in last month's 1-0 defeat to the Polish champions hangs heavy over Thursday's Europa League Group K return clash at Craven Cottage, but Jol does not expect any Fulham player to stoop as low.
Dembele is suspended for the match after pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez in reaction to being caught on the back of the ankle.
"I would have a word with [my player if they did what Nunez did] because it is not our style," said Jol.
"You won't see that in our team. I felt the [referee] was quite experienced so it is about momentum.
"He has to make these decisions and probably in hindsight he would have seen it [was a mistake] because it was the fourth official that probably called it.
"It is a bit of teamwork so I don't want to blame him but it was certainly an awful match.
"If we had got a result we would be fine, you know?
"But we got reduced to 10 men and lost so it was almost like everything was for nothing and that was awful."
He added: "I told everybody what I thought about it [at the time]. The only other thing is [Dembele should not have raised his hands]
"The rules are if you raise your hands, you are probably going to get a red card and that is what happened."
http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/boss-reveals-polish-lesson-learned-1327194.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/boss-reveals-polish-lesson-learned-1327194.html?)
Dempsey US player of year for 2nd time
SAN FRANCISCO—Clint Dempsey has been voted the Futbol de Primera U.S. national team player of the year award for the second time.
The 28-year-old midfielder and forward received 375 points and 99 first-place votes in balloting by media released Wednesday.
Dempsey also won the award in 2006.
Goalkeeper Tim Howard was second with 252 points, followed by midfielder Landon Donovan, a six-time winner, with 191.
Dempsey has four goals in 12 games the U.S. this year, giving him 23 goals in 80 international appearances. When he scored for Fulham last weekend, Dempsey tied Brian McBride for the most Premier League goals among Americans with 36.
The award was formerly known as the Honda player of the year.
Read more: Dempsey US player of year for 2nd time - The Denver Post http://www.denverpost.com/sports/ci_19248287?#ixzz1ccfjSWgT (http://www.denverpost.com/sports/ci_19248287?#ixzz1ccfjSWgT)
Read The Denver Post's Terms of Use of its content: http://www.denverpost.com/termsofuse (http://www.denverpost.com/termsofuse)
Fulham's Smith has trial at QPR
Fulham youngster Alex Smith is having a trial with QPR.
The left-back, who turned 20 on Monday, played for Rangers' reserves in a match against Reading on Tuesday afternoon.
Smith is a product of Fulham's youth system and was an ever-present for the Under-18s side which reached the Academy League Final earlier this year. He is yet to make a first-team appearance.
His contract at Craven Cottage is due to expire next summer.
http://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/fulhams-smith-has-trial-at-qpr/? (http://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/fulhams-smith-has-trial-at-qpr/?)
Sidwell's challenge was 'horrific'
Wigan boss glad that Diame will recover soon
(http://img.skysports.com/11/10/660x350/Wigan-v-Fulham-Steve-Sidwell-Mohamed-Diame_2671857.jpg)
Mohamed Diame (centre): Wigan midfielder suffered ankle ligament damage against Fulham
Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez believes that midfielder Mohamed Diame would have broken his leg if his foot had not been off the ground when he was caught by Steve Sidwell during Saturday's 2-0 defeat by Fulham in the Premier League.
Diame only suffered minor ankle ligament damage at the DW Stadium and could even recover his fitness for this weekend's crucial encounter with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux.
Martinez is understandably pleased with the news but has described Sidwell's challenge as "horrific".
"We have been very lucky," said the Spaniard. "It was a horrific challenge.
"We have seen it a few times. At the moment of contact his leg is off the ground.
"If it had been on the ground, it would have been a break. Thankfully, he has only damaged his ligaments."
"I don't think it is going to be too long (before he recovers)," he added.
"We will see how he develops over the next 48 hours.
"Momo suffered two very tough tackles in 45 seconds and received no protection at all.
"I still have hope for Sunday but mainly, we are just glad it is not serious."
Wigan are currently at the foot of the Premier League table with just five points from 10 matches.
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7287900/? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7287900/?)
Martin Jol keen for Fulham to make amends against Wisla Krakow
• Fulham without Sa, Senderos and Hughes
• Jol unhappy with Dembele's red card in Wisla
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Clubs/Club_Home/2011/11/2/1320264591799/Martin-Jol-007.jpg)
Martin Jol will name a strong side for Fulham's match against Wisla Krakow at Craven Cottage.
Photograph: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
The Fulham manager, Martin Jol, is keen to make amends for an "awful night" in Poland two weeks ago when his side face Wisla Krakow in the reverse fixture at Craven Cottage on Thursday.
Jol saw Moussa Dembele sent off in Krakow after an innocuous passage of play flared up, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Núñez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.
The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face, despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading the referee, Martin Hansson, to show the Belgium international a straight red card.
Jol says no Fulham player would play act in the same way as Núñez. "I would have a word [with my player if he did what Núñez did] because it is not our style," he said. "You won't see that in our team.
"I felt the [referee] was quite experienced so it is about momentum. He has to make these decisions and probably in hindsight he would have seen it [was a mistake] because it was the fourth official that probably called it. It is a bit of teamwork so I don't want to blame him but it was certainly an awful match.
"If we had got a result we would be fine. But we got reduced to 10 men and lost, so it was almost like everything was for nothing and that was awful."
Jol will name a strong side for the Group K tie but is without Orlando Sa (hamstring), Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh) as well as the suspended Dembele.
Fulham provisional squad: Schwarzer, Etheridge, Kelly, Riise, Hangeland, Baird, Grygera, Briggs, Sidwell, Kasami, Murphy, Gecov, Duff, Etuhu, Dempsey, Johnson, Zamora.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/nov/02/martin-jol-fulham-wisla-krakow?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+theguardian%2Ffootball%2Frss+%28Football%29 (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/nov/02/martin-jol-fulham-wisla-krakow?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+theguardian%2Ffootball%2Frss+%28Football%29)
Clint Dempsey gets the vote for the United States' top player
• Fulham forward beats Tim Howard to win award
• Dempsey equals American Premier League record
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/sport/Pix/columnists/2011/11/2/1320261872040/dempsey-007.jpg)
Fulham's Clint Dempsey scored again for Fulham last weekend.
Photograph: Paul Currie/Action Images
Fulham's Clint Dempsey has been voted the Futbol de Primera USA national-team player of the year for the second time.
The 28-year-old received 375 points and 99 first-place votes in balloting by the media. Dempsey also won the award in 2006.
Everton's goalkeeper Tim Howard was second with 252 points, followed by the LA Galaxy midfielder Landon Donovan, a six-time winner, with 191.
Dempsey has scored four goals in 12 games for the USA this year. He has now scored 23 goals in 80 international appearances. When he scored for Fulham last weekend Dempsey drew level with Brian McBride for the most Premier League goals among Americans with 36.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/nov/02/clint-dempsey-usa-award?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+theguardian%2Ffootball%2Frss+%28Football%29 (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/nov/02/clint-dempsey-usa-award?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+theguardian%2Ffootball%2Frss+%28Football%29)
Fulham teenager Peniket joins Hereford on month-long loan
Hereford United have signed Fulham's teenage striker Richard Peniket on an initial month-long loan deal.
The Wales Under 19 international appeared for the reserves against Glenn Hoddle's Academy on Tuesday and could be in contention for Saturday's game at home to League Two Crawley Town.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2056819/Richard-Peniket-joins-Hereford.html#ixzz1cchWcW2J (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2056819/Richard-Peniket-joins-Hereford.html#ixzz1cchWcW2J)
Tottenham clash is spurring on Jol as Fulham go in search of European points
Fulham manager Martin Jol admits his mind keeps drifting to Sunday's emotional clash against Tottenham.
The Dutchman's side face Wisla Krakow in the Europa League on Thursday but, with a Barclays Premier League match against his former employers on the horizon, Jol has found his thoughts fast-forwarding to the weekend.
'Of course I have thought about the game against Tottenham,' said Jol. 'But then I have to keep changing my mind (from the Spurs game) because I know we need the points in Europe.'
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/11/02/article-2056776-0EA31BCF00000578-660_468x286.jpg)
Friends reunited: Martin Jol is looking forward to coming up against his old side Spurs at the weekend
With the injustice of Moussa Dembele's straight red card in the first match against the Polish side fresh in his memory, Jol will warn his team not to fall foul of their opponents' play-acting tactics again.
The Belgium forward was sent off for a push on Gervasio Nunez, though replays show Dembele barely put his hand on the Argentine's shoulder.
The decision left Fulham players furious and striker Andy Johnson said afterwards that maybe the Craven Cottage side should revert to similar tactics. But Jol said: 'If one of my players was play-acting, I would have a word with him.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/11/02/article-2056776-0E75DE7600000578-293_468x367.jpg)
Injustice: Moussa Dembele was sent off against Wisla Krakow in the last round of games after Gervasio Nunez went down holding his face after he was pushed in the shoulder
'It's not our style and you won't see it in our team. I know the South Americans and have coached a few in my career. They think differently.
'They feel if the referee makes a decision against the other team, they have achieved what they wanted.'
Probable line-up:
(4-4-2): Schwarzer; Grygera, Baird, Hangeland, Briggs; Duff, Sidwell, Murphy, Dempsey; Kasami, Johnson.
TV: Five (7.30 start, 8.05 ko)
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2056776/Martin-Jol-focused-Fulhams-game-Tottenham.html#ixzz1cchtkZBG (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2056776/Martin-Jol-focused-Fulhams-game-Tottenham.html#ixzz1cchtkZBG)
Fulham v Wisla Krakow: Easy home win expected at the Cottage
They may have suffered a surprise defeat in Poland two weeks ago but Fulham are very much expected to get revenge at Craven Cottage says Mike Norman.
Fulham v Wisla Krakow, KO: Thursday 20:05, live on Channel 5, Match Odds: Fulham 1.35, Wisla Krakow 12.0, The Draw 5.4
Fulham were unfortunate to be reduced to 10 men in the reverse of this fixture two weeks ago but by their own admission it was a pretty poor effort in Poland, losing 1-0 and handing Wisla their first win in Group K. That result leaves The Cottagers three points behind group leaders FC Twente and just one point ahead of both Wisla and Danish side Odense, so Martin Jol's men can ill-afford another slip-up here with a trip to Holland (to face Twente) still to come.
Fulham's league campaign has gone pretty much as expected in the last fortnight, losing to Everton before winning 2-0 at struggling Wigan at the weekend. Jol has promised a strong line-up for this crucial encounter, insisting that he has no fears about his players taking to the field three times in one week (cue every granddad in the country telling us that they used to play three times in a day, let alone a week).
Despite promising to field a strong side Jol is without Moussa Dembelle (suspended) and defenders Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes who both have thigh strains.
"Martin Jol has promised a strong line-up for this crucial encounter, insisting that he has no fears about his players taking to the field three times in one week."
Match Odds
Fulham are worthy favourites to win this game despite losing to the same side in Poland two weeks ago. Five Europa League games at Craven Cottage have rendered four wins and a draw this term with 13 goals scored and just the one conceded, whilst their defeat to Everton recently was Fulham's first reversal in 10 games on home soil. Opponents Krakow lost at home to a bottom half side in their domestic league at the weekend and that is hardly the perfect preparation for what will surely be a tough task.
Over/Under 2.5 Goals
At 1.78 to back Over 2.5 Goals looks a safe wager here given that Fulham have been free-scoring on home soil this season, scoring three (twice) and four in this competition, six against QPR, and two against the mighty Manchester City. However it's Jol's promise of a strong line-up that inspires the most confidence and it could be that if Fulham get an early goal they could easily end up with three or four.
Half Time/Full Time & Correct Score
Given what I've said above then, the Fulham/Fulham option at 1.96 in the Half Time/Full Time market, and both the 3-0 (11.0) and Any Unquoted (5.8) options in the Correct Score market are worth considering.
Recommended Bets
Back Fulham HT/Fulham FT @ 1.96
Back 3-0 @ 11.0 & Any Unquoted @ 5.8 Correct Scores
http://betting.betfair.com/football/uefa-cup/fulham-v-wisla-krakow-easy-home-win-expected-at-the-cottag-021111.html? (http://betting.betfair.com/football/uefa-cup/fulham-v-wisla-krakow-easy-home-win-expected-at-the-cottag-021111.html?)
MARTIN JOL WILL NOT TAKE A KRAK AT DIVING
MARTIN JOL expects more diving from Wisla's Argentinian tumbler tonight – but insists his Fulham players would never resort to cheating.
Jol was fuming after Moussa Dembele was dismissed when Gervasio Nunez went down clutching his face in Krakow two weeks ago.
The Dutchman reckons fooling referees is in the DNA of South Americans.
He said: "I know the South Americans and have coached a few in my career.
"They feel if the referee makes a decision against the other team, they have achieved what they wanted. It's a different mentality. Even with dives, if the referee falls into it, they are happy. I don't agree with it. But in South America they say, 'well done'."
Striker Andy Johnson suggested Fulham players should start diving themselves.
But Jol added: "If one of my players did that I would have a word with him. It's not our style.
"If you want fair play you have to try to achieve that.
"We try to do that with most of the items we have spoken about – last week we spoke about racism. We've probably all agreed on fair play for decades now."
Jol is determined to play the right way after Fulham qualified for the competition through the Fair Play League.
Clint Dempsey agreed with his manager, with the American adding: "We don't do things theatrically, that is not how we operate.
"If another player put his hand in my face I would not go to ground."
FULHAM: Schwarzer; Kelly, Hangeland, Grygera, Riise; Duff, Murphy, Etuhu, Dempsey; Zamora, Johnson.
Referee: Halis Ozkahya (Turkey)
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/218878/Martin-Jol-will-not-take-a-Krak-at-diving/? (http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/218878/Martin-Jol-will-not-take-a-Krak-at-diving/?)
LAURI DALLA VALLE WANTS TO STAY AT DUNDEE UNITED
LAURI DALLA VALLE last night hinted he wants to extend his loan at Dundee United.
The Fulham striker was farmed out by the Premiership club to United in a bid to gain first-team experience and he has been able to force his way into manager Peter Houston's plans.
The Finland U21 international, who is jetting off to face Ukraine next week, is happy with life in the SPL and revealed he will be speaking to Fulham about lengthening his deal beyond January.
Dalla Valle has scored three goals in 9 appearances for United and was on target against Dunfermline last weekend.
He said: "I am here until January and have been really happy with the way things have been going so far.
"I came here to play games and the big thing is that I'm getting to do that.
"I am happy with the progress I have made and really enjoy playing for Dundee United.
"I have also been able to score a few goals, like against Dunfermline at the weekend, so it has been a good move for me. Obviously I will need to look at what Fulham and Dundee United are saying in January and I think we will sit down and discuss things. "
Dalla Valle is highly-rated by his national side and is looking forward to jetting off to represent Finland against Ukraine.
He said: "We have a European Championship game against Ukraine next week so it's a very important one. We lost to Sweden last time so need to get back on track but first of all I'm fully focused on the Rangers game at the weekend."
http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/281391/Lauri-Dalla-Valle-wants-to-stay-at-Dundee-United? (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/281391/Lauri-Dalla-Valle-wants-to-stay-at-Dundee-United?)
Redknapp is a doubt for Fulham trip after surgery
Spurs manager's heart operation means he may swap the dugout for the directors' box on Sunday.
The Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is not expected to appear on the touchline for Sunday's Premier League fixture with Fulham after successfully undergoing minor heart surgery, though the 64-year-old may yet be present at the game.
Redknapp was admitted to hospital on Tuesday night for tests after he started feeling unwell and had two stents inserted to unblock his coronary arteries during an operation yesterday afternoon. He is due to be discharged in the next 48 hours, meaning he will miss his side's Europa League fixture with Russian side Rubin Kazan this evening and casting doubt over his attendance for Spurs' visit to Craven Cottage.
In his absence, assistant manager Kevin Bond and first-team coach Joe Jordan will take charge of the team for tonight's game.
The former Portsmouth and West Ham manager remains upbeat, insisting that he is "absolutely fine" and hopes he "can be back at work again in a couple of days", but sources close to Redknapp yesterday suggested an appearance in Fulham's directors' box may be more realistic for this weekend.
Writing in his national newspaper column yesterday, Redknapp revealed he has been taking heart medication for a year and admitted the nature of his job is such that even "the most mild-mannered of people explode, as when you are sitting on the bench you get eaten up inside from first to last whistle".
Under such circumstances, it is little wonder the Spurs chairman Daniel Levy yesterday cautioned against his manager returning to the front line too quickly. "We are delighted the operation went so smoothly and successfully," said Levy. "Knowing Harry he will want to rush back, but it's important that he only does so when he has recovered properly." A statement released by the club revealed Redknapp was "in excellent spirits" after his coronary angioplasty – a procedure described as "routine" and carried out under local, rather than general, anaesthetic – and had asked Tottenham "to pass on his thanks to all the many, many fans who have sent goodwill messages".
His friend and long-time assistant Bond insisted the scare would not force Redknapp, who has transformed Spurs from relegation strugglers to Champions League contenders in the three years since he replaced Juande Ramos, to contemplate cutting his career short.
"This will not knock Harry's desire to manage, no chance," Bond said. "No, it won't happen. You give him two days off and he will come back rejuvenated. It's nothing really for us to worry about. It's happened. The procedure has come and gone. I have spoken to Harry and he is fine. While no one wants to see anyone have any type of operation, it is a simple procedure and hopefully he will be back within a couple of days so everything will be fine."
Redknapp is far from the first of his Premier League peers to undergo a heart operation. Sir Alex Ferguson had a pacemaker fitted in 2004, while Gérard Houllier had to have an 11-hour emergency aortic dissection after experiencing heart problems while at Liverpool. He later returned to top-flight management at Aston Villa before ill-health again forced him out of the game. Joe Kinnear, too, had a triple-heart bypass in 2009, ending his reign at Newcastle.
Gallas and Pienaar return for Europa tie
Stand-in Tottenham managers Joe Jordan and Kevin Bond are expected to make changes for tonight's Europa League trip to Rubin Kazan.
A number of first-team players miss the 4,000-mile round-trip along with convalescing Harry Redknapp, as the club look towards protecting a two-month unbeaten league run when they visit Fulham on Sunday. Spurs, who sit two points clear in Group A and with a home tie against PAOK and a trip to Shamrock Rovers to follow, will rotate for the return against a side they beat 1-0 at White Hart Lane a fortnight ago.
William Gallas could make a first appearance of the season after recovering from a calf strain, with the returning Steven Pienaar also set to play. Tom Carroll may get another chance, while either Carlo Cudicini or Heurelho Gomes will start in goal.
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/redknapp-is-a-doubt-for-fulham-trip-after-surgery-6256210.html? (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/redknapp-is-a-doubt-for-fulham-trip-after-surgery-6256210.html?)
We would never try to get an opponent sent off, claims Jol
Fulham v Wisla Krakow
Martin Jol insists no Fulham player would play-act in the same way that a Wisla Krakow player did against his side last month in an incident which led to Moussa Dembélé being sent off.
The sending off occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembélé pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle. The Argentine midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand Dembélé a red card.
Fulham face the Polish champions again tonight in Europa League Group K and Jol is keen to make amends at Craven Cottage for an "awful night" in Poland when his 10-man side lost 1-0. "I would have a word with [my player if they did what Nunez did] because it is not our style," the Fulham manager said. "You won't see that in our team. I felt the [referee] was quite experienced so it is about momentum. He has to make these decisions and probably in hindsight he would have seen it [was a mistake] because it was the fourth official that probably called it.
"It is a bit of teamwork so I don't want to blame him but it was certainly an awful match. If we had got a result we would be fine, you know?
"But we got reduced to 10 men and lost so it was almost like everything was for nothing and that was awful."
He added: "I told everybody what I thought about it [at the time]. The only other thing is [Dembélé should not have raised his hands]. If you raise your hands, you are probably going to get a red card and that is what happened."
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/we-would-never-try-to-get-an-opponent-sent-off-claims-jol-6256203.html? (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/we-would-never-try-to-get-an-opponent-sent-off-claims-jol-6256203.html?)
Dempsey desperate for points
Clint Dempsey admits Fulham needs points from its Europa League encounter with Wisla Krakow if it is to progress to the knockout stages.
The Cottagers are expected to name a strong line-up to face the Polish champion as they look to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland.
The result at Stadion Miejski leaves Fulham second in Group K, three points behind Dutch side FC Twente and just a point ahead of both Odense BK and Wisla.
"You never want to lose and because the table is so tight we need to win," Dempsey said.
"We need to get points as you don't want to be waiting until the last game to get our of the group stage.
"We're going to do everything we can to win the game.
"While the league is most important, so too is this competition as you want to be a part of as many competitions as you can.
"To play in these games gives you great memories.
"I mean getting to the Europa League final the last time we were in it is something I will never forget and hopefully we can have a nice little run.
"It is nice to be able to play in this competition as it allows you to play different teams from all over [Europe]."
Dempsey was rested for the first match with Wisla, which was marred by Moussa Dembele's controversial sending off.
The incident occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.
The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand the Belgium international a straight red card.
Dempsey watched the match on television but, while annoyed by the decision, remained philosophical about it.
"It is frustrating to see but what can you do about it? The ref made a decision that he felt was right.
"Things, though, don't always happen the way you want and now we can only concentrate on tonight's game.
"We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can. Then, hopefully, we can get the right result."
Wisla's preparation for tonight's match did not go smoothly, with visa problems delaying the arrival at the team hotel of Serbian trio Milan Jovanic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev.
"We hope the problems with visas will be solved, and this trio will be able to play. We came here for a favorable outcome but it won't be easy," Wisla coach Coach Robert Maaskant said.
http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/news/1079659/Dempsey-desperate-for-points? (http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/news/1079659/Dempsey-desperate-for-points?)
Premier League - Match facts: Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur
Facts and figures ahead of the Premier League clash between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage.
Fulham have failed to score in four of the last five Premier League matches with Tottenham.
Fulham have had one player booked in each of the last six Premier League games against Spurs.
The Cottagers have won just one of the last 10 Premier League games against Tottenham, losing four.
Martin Jol was Tottenham manager between November 2004 and October 2007, winning 47 of 113 Premier League matches (42%).
Rafael van der Vaart has scored six goals in his last five league games.
Having lost their opening two league games, Tottenham have won six and drawn one of their last seven (a run that started when Scott Parker made his debut for Spurs).
Fulham have only won two of their last 22 London derbies, but one of them came in their last London derby at Craven Cottage (6-0 v Queens Park Rangers).
Clint Dempsey has won more fouls than any other Premier League player this season (27).
Luka Modric should make his 100th Premier League appearances for Spurs in this game.
No side has been shown more yellow cards in the Premier League this season than the Cottagers (26, joint with Chelsea).
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03112011/58/premier-league-match-facts-fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur.html (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03112011/58/premier-league-match-facts-fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur.html)
Leicester poised to appoint Lee Clark
(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/match-centre/article426933.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/Lee-Clark-cropped)
Lee Clark is set to land the Leicester job after talks with the Foxes' owners in London.
Huddersfield boss Clark could now be named as Sven Goran Eriksson's successor on Thursday after emerging as the leading contender.
The 39-year-old has established an impressive reputation as one of English football's brightest young bosses, and Leicester made their move for him on Tuesday.
Hull's former Leicester manager Nigel Pearson and ex-Derby and Nottingham Forest boss Billy Davies are also on the short-list, but Clark seems poised to secure the post.
Huddersfield will demand compensation of around £300,000 for the manager that has guided the Terriers on an amazing run of 41 consecutive matches unbeaten in League One.
Leicester are determined to have Clark installed before their Championship clash with Leeds on Sunday.
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Leicester-set-to-name-Lee-Clark-as-manager-pay-Huddersfield-300k-transfer-fee-article826098.html#ixzz1cclyfo2d (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Leicester-set-to-name-Lee-Clark-as-manager-pay-Huddersfield-300k-transfer-fee-article826098.html#ixzz1cclyfo2d)
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DEMPSEY LOOKS FOR THREE POINTS
Clint Dempsey admits Fulham need points from tonight's Europa League encounter with Wisla Krakow if they are to progress to the knockout stages.
The Cottagers are expected to name a strong line-up to face the Polish champions as they look to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland.
The result at Stadion Miejski leaves the Cottagers second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit FC Twente and just a point ahead of both Odense BK and tonight's opponents Wisla.
"You never want to lose and because the table is so tight we need to win," Dempsey said.
"We need to get points as you don't want to be waiting until the last game to get our of the group stage.
"We're going to do everything we can to win the game.
"While the league is most important, so too is this competition as you want to be a part of as many competitions as you can.
"To play in these games gives you great memories.
"I mean getting to the Europa League final the last time we were in it is something I will never forget and hopefully we can have a nice little run.
"It is nice to be able to play in this competition as it allows you to play different teams from all over [Europe]."
Dempsey was rested for the first match with Wisla, which was marred by Moussa Dembele's controversial sending off.
The incident occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.
The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand the Belgium international a straight red card.
Dempsey watched the match on television but, while annoyed by the decision, remained philosophical about it.
"It is frustrating to see but what can you do about it? The ref made a decision that he felt was right.
"Things, though, don't always happen the way you want and now we can only concentrate on tonight's game.
"We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can. Then, hopefully, we can get the right result."
Wisla's preparation for tonight's match did not go smoothly, with visa problems delaying the arrival at the team hotel of Serbian trio Milan Jovanic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev.
Coach Robert Maaskant told his club's official website ,www.wisla.krakow.pl: "We hope the problems with visas will be solved, and this trio will be able to play. We came here for a favorable outcome but it won't be easy."
http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/11/03/SOCCER_Fulham_Dempsey.html (http://www.sportinglife.com/football/premiership/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/11/03/SOCCER_Fulham_Dempsey.html)
Fulham and QPR ramp up bid to sign Juventus striker Amauri
Fulham and QPR are set to battle it out for Juventus striker Amauri.
Despite scoring seven times in 11 appearances during a loan spell with Parma, the 31-year-old has failed to find a way into the Juventus first-team, and is keen to seal a January move.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/11/03/article-0-0C8FCDB600000578-731_468x286.jpg)
Italian job: West London rivals QPR and Fulham are interested in Amauri
'It is true that he could leave in January,' Amauri's agent Giampiero Pocetta told Tuttojuve. 'We are working on it, and not only with clubs from Italy.
'There is serious interest from foreign clubs, including some from England. We need to find a solution that's good for the player and for the club.'
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/11/03/article-2056957-0A9F05B5000005DC-558_468x362.jpg)
No room at the inn: Amauri starred on loan at Parma but is out of favour at Juventus
Juventus are asking £6million for the 6ft 1ins striker although his wages of £3.4m a year after tax could prove a stumbling block in getting him a move away.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2056957/Fulham-QPR-ramp-bid-sign-Amauri.html#ixzz1cdUOQJ8h (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2056957/Fulham-QPR-ramp-bid-sign-Amauri.html#ixzz1cdUOQJ8h)
Clint Dempsey targets Europa League run
(http://i.thisislondon.co.uk/i/pix/2011/08/Clint-Dempsey_415.jpg)
Clint Dempsey admits Fulham need points from tonight's Europa League encounter with Wisla Krakow if they are to progress to the knockout stages.
The Cottagers are expected to name a strong line-up to face the Polish champions as they look to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland.
The result at Stadion Miejski leaves the Cottagers second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit FC Twente and just a point ahead of both Odense BK and tonight's opponents Wisla.
"You never want to lose and because the table is so tight we need to win," Dempsey said.
"We need to get points as you don't want to be waiting until the last game to get our of the group stage. We're going to do everything we can to win the game.
"While the league is most important, so too is this competition as you want to be a part of as many competitions as you can. To play in these games gives you great memories.
"I mean getting to the Europa League final the last time we were in it is something I will never forget and hopefully we can have a nice little run. It is nice to be able to play in this competition as it allows you to play different teams from all over [Europe]."
Dempsey was rested for the first match with Wisla, which was marred by Moussa Dembele's controversial sending off.
The incident occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.
The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand the Belgium international a straight red card.
Dempsey watched the match on television but, while annoyed by the decision, remained philosophical about it.
"It is frustrating to see but what can you do about it? The ref made a decision that he felt was right.
"Things, though, don't always happen the way you want and now we can only concentrate on tonight's game. We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can. Then, hopefully, we can get the right result."
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-24005473-clint-dempsey-targets-europa-league-run.do? (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-24005473-clint-dempsey-targets-europa-league-run.do?)
Europa League previews
Fulham v Wisla Krakow
Martin Jol will name a strong side although he will be without Moussa Dembele. The Belgium international was sent off in the away tie so is banned for tonight's match and is joined on the sidelines by Orlando Sa (hamstring). Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh) are out.
Kick-off: 8.05pm. TV Live on Five
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/europa-league/8866476/Europa-League-previews.html? (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/europa-league/8866476/Europa-League-previews.html?)
Up next: Wisla Krakow (h)
by DAN on NOVEMBER 3, 2011
(http://images.teamtalk.com/11/10/402x210/Wisla-Krakow-v-Fulham-Gervasio-Nunez_2668268.jpg)
Fulham's progress to the knockout stages of the Europa League was upset by a disappointing defeat in Krakow a couple of weeks ago and the sending off of Moussa Dembele, which so angered Martin Jol. The disgraceful play-acting of Gervasio Nunez means that Jol will be without the Belgian – a scorer at Wigan on Saturday – as the only mechanism for appealing against a UEFA red card is when mistaken identity is involved.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference yesterday, both Jol and midfielder Clint Dempsey underlined the importance of tonight's fixture for keeping Fulham's qualification hopes in their own hands. The Fulham boss has rotated his side regularly during the European competition this year – soething that became necessary once their season started in June – but he will field something approaching his strongest side for the visit of Poles given the tightness of Group K.
That should see Dempsey, who was rested for the reverse fixture, return to the Fulham midfield alongside skipper Danny Murphy, who was also left at home for the trip to Poland. Striker Bobby Zamora, who has also been a bit-part player in Europe so far, should lead the line and will be hoping to rekindle the form that fired Fulham all the way to the final a couple of seasons ago. Zamora has seemingly lacked the sharpness that marked his return from injury last season so far – and it remains to be seen whether he will operate as a loan striker this evening. Jol has favoured the 4-2-3-1 formation since he took over at Craven Cottage, but Zamora's partnership with Andy Johnson has flourished when the pair have been used together.
Johnson could continue in the first eleven even if Zamora plays up front on his own, reprising his role as an advanced midfielder, which worked well at Wigan – although Jol might settle on a 4-4-2 given the need for press for a win tonight. Fulham are definitely without Orlando Sa, who injured in his hamstring in the first game between the two sides in Poland.
Injuries will also leave Fulham's defence with a makeshift look once again. Aaron Hughes is still missing after aggravating a thigh problem in his brief substitute appearance against Everton eleven days ago, while Philippe Senderos has been ruled out with a similar injury. It means that Chris Baird, impressive in the away win at the DW Stadium at the weekend, should continue at centre back alongside Brede Hangeland and Zdenek Grygera will feature again at right-back. Jol's only decision in midfield will be whether to opt for the added bite of Dickson Etuhu or the guile of Steve Sidwell, who played in Dembele for the clinching second goal at Wigan on Saturday. Young Kerim Frei, who has enjoyed some fleeting cameos so far this season in Europe and the League Cup, may well be amongst the substitutes once again.
Wisla's narrow win over Fulham has revived their own hopes of qualifying through the group stages after their own campaign began with a disappointing home defeat by Odense on matchday one. The Poles come to London confident that they can be the first team to defeat Fulham on home turf in 21 European matches. They will look to the likes of forwards David Bilton, who scored the winner in Krakow, and Ivica Iliev – man of the match in that contest – to unlock a Fulham defence that has proved miserly in Europe so far this season.
MY FULHAM XI (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Grygera, Briggs, Hangeland, Baird; Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey, Duff; Zamora, Johnson. Subs: Etheridge, Kelly, J.A. Riise, Gecov, Sidwell, Kasami, Frei.
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/11/up-next-wisla-krakow-h/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/11/up-next-wisla-krakow-h/?)
Fulham v Wisla Krakow preview
Cottagers looking to stretch unbeaten record on home soil
Fulham will put their impressive home record in European football on the line when they play host to Wisla Krakow.
The Cottagers are unbeaten in 21 continental clashes at Craven Cottage stretching back to 2002.
They have won 16 of those games and a 1-1 draw with FC Twente on Matchday One this season ended a run of nine straight victories on home soil.
That contest also represented the first time they have conceded in front of their own supporters in Europe this year.
Martin Jol will be hoping for another productive showing from his side on Thursday, with Fulham looking to strengthen their grip on second place in Group K.
Progress to the knockout stage is the target for the Cottagers, but they need to avoid the danger of burning out.
They have already played 11 games in Europe this season and are the only side left in the competition to have made it through from the first qualifying round.
While Fulham will be strong favourites at Craven Cottage, Wisla know they have what it takes to overcome Jol's troops.
They prevailed 1-0 in the reverse fixture last time out, picking up their first victory of the group stage in the process.
Wisla have won two of their four away games in Europe this season, during the qualifying rounds, but have struggled on the road in previous group campaigns.
Team news
Fulham manager Jol is expected to name a strong side in midweek.
The Cottagers will be looking to avoid a repeat of their defeat in Poland and edge closer to the next round, but they will be without Moussa Dembele.
The Belgium international was sent off in the away tie so is banned for Thursday's match.
He is joined on the sidelines by Orlando Sa (hamstring), Philippe Senderos and Aaron Hughes (both thigh).
Wisla are hoping that three of their key men will be passed fit to play.
Milan Jovanovic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev have all travelled to London despite carrying slight knocks.
http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3447365,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3447365,00.html?)
Dempsey Preview(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Dempsey/DempseyEuropaNews.jpg)
Fulham's Clint Dempsey spoke to the members of the media ahead of this evening's crucial UEFA Europa League match against Wisla Krakow at Craven Cottage and the US international star in confident Fulham can strengthen their position in Group K tonight.
Q: Clint, you missed the last game in Poland, how loudly did you scream at the television?
A: It was frustrating to see but what can you do? The referee made the decision, he thought it was right. It was a lot of hard work for our guys being a man down and going a goal down trying to get a result.
It was unfair for them not to get a draw because that would have been a nice result after dealing with that.
Things don't always happen the way you want but all we can do is get ready for the next game and take advantage of having the same number of players as they do and play the football we can and get the right result.
Q: Mousa accepts he should not have raised his hand and the Argentinean shouldn't dive the way he did. Have you as a group been warned about how you must deal with these sorts of players?
A: You know you must learn from what happens in game. We must be on our best behaviour as always, we have a lot of honest guys on the team.
We get stuck into challenges but we don't go out to hurt players and I think our record shows that. That's why we are in the competition; because of fair play. We try and play in the right spirit and that will never change.
Q: You never resort to trying to win free kicks. That's not the English game?
A: We try to play the right way. There are certain incidents in games where you barely get touched or you might get hit a little bit harder and you go down. Maybe because of fatigue but you don't do it theatrically, that's not how we operate. We play in the right spirit and play good football. We're an honest, hard-working team who go out to play football and work hard.
Q: Players and supporters can get too wrapped up in revenge after what happened in Krakow but you must just focus on the game?
A: Yes we want the result. That's what we are thinking about - getting the points. We want to advance out of the group, that's our goal.
Q: Do you feel a sense of achievement getting through to the competition via the fair play award? Does it mean anything to you as players?
A: I think we would have rather got in through finishing higher in the league so we wouldn't have to play as many games to get to the group stages. Ideally that's not how we wanted to get in.
Q: Did you think you may have blown it last year as you picked up a few bookings towards the end of the season?
A: It's one of those things you don't know until you find out. I think some of the boys knew it may have been close but we are in the competition and we find ourselves in a good position if we get two results.
Q: I think I'm right in saying you've reached Brian McBride's record for goals in the Premier League?
A: It's good to be in his sort of company seeing as he is a forward and I'm an outside midfielder. And, I like to score goals and help the team out. It's great to get to those numbers. Hopefully I can keep pushing it higher and there will be other milestones I can reach.
Q: With the Europa is it a bit non-stop?
A: No, I want to play as much as I can and make the most of my career as you never know how long it will last. You have to pace yourself and be smart in that respect but at the same time, if you feel good then play as much as you can.
Q: Is there a fear with all these games in Europe at the start that it might eventually catch up with you?
A: That's a good question. We'll have to wait and see how the guys are feeling. The more we keep them healthy and the deeper the squad available for the games, the better for us. You never know when you will be in a Europe competition again, we have been fortunate enough to be in it twice already, but since I have been here, it will be 5 years in January, you always want to make the most of being in the competition.
Q: Thursday's match is a must-win for Fulham as then you travel to Twente who are top of the group?
A: I think it is definitely a must win for us as we need the points. Like I said you don't want to wait until the last game where you need a win and have to rely on other results to go your way. Destiny is in our hands and we can get the result tomorrow night. Hopefully we can get out of the group stage and go on a run and make the most of being in the competition.
Q: Do you still feel you can catch Twente at the top of the group or is it just about qualification for you guys?
A: You want to the best you can do and see where each game takes you but you don't want to wait until the end and have the last game as a must-win to try and advance out of the group. We want to advance out of the group and to win it would be the icing on the cake.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/DempseyWislaPreview.aspx?#ixzz1cdzClZVy (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/DempseyWislaPreview.aspx?#ixzz1cdzClZVy)
Fulham handed striker boost
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/sep2011/1/3/orlando-sa-image-3-630786017.jpg)
ORLANDO Sa is set to return to training next week as he battles to overcome a hamstring problem.
The Fulham frontman has been sidelined for the past fortnight after limping out of the Europa League defeat against Wisla Krakow last month.
But boss Martin Jol hopes the Portuguese ace will be able to resume sessions at the club's Motspur Park training ground next week.
The striker should be in contention to return to action for Fulham's Premier League clash with Sunderland on November 19.
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/11/03/fulham-handed-striker-boost-82029-29712951/?#ixzz1cdzWpkA2 (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/11/03/fulham-handed-striker-boost-82029-29712951/?#ixzz1cdzWpkA2)
Opposition Update(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/General/KrakowNews.jpg)
Craven Cottage hosted Wisla Krakow's pre-match press conference and training session on Wednesday evening and Fulham's Polish opposition certainly endured a tough time on their travels to London ahead of tonight's game.
"Let me please start with three announcements about our trip to London," said Wisła Krakow's spokesman on Wednesday night. "First of all, the airport in Kraków was closed [caused by the fog] and we had to travel to Katowice Airport. Then, already in London, our Polish bus driver didn't know the way to the ground. But most importantly, we have three players absent at the moment as they are still at the airport and not allowed to enter the UK."
With Milan Jovanić, Marko Jovanović and striker Ivica Iliev all stopped at the airport due to invalid working visas to the UK, Wisla Krakow's 17-member squad was reduced to 14 men, with only one goalkeeper eligible to play in Estonian Sergei Pareiko. Fortunately for Wisla their three Serbian players eventually re-joined their team-mates late yesterday evening.
Cezary Wilk, Wisła's temporary captain, claimed it was his dream to play in England on Wednesday night. "It's a dream come true but the most important thing is to win the game," said Wilk. "There won't be a better moment to break the run of poor games for us."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/WislaKrakowPreview.aspx?#ixzz1cdznDeWB (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/November/WislaKrakowPreview.aspx?#ixzz1cdznDeWB)
Cottagers clash before youth cup starts
Charlton U18s kick off a big week for the academy with a derby at Fulham on Saturday (11am).
The Addicks returned to action last Saturday after a weekend without a game, and suffered a 2-1 defeat against Arsenal at Sparrows Lane.
So they will aim to bounce back to winning ways against the Cottagers before kicking off their FA Youth Cup campaign at Soham Town Rangers less than 48 hours later.
Academy director Paul Hart and academy manager Steve Avory opted not to investigate moving the Fulham fixture on the schedule, so the club's youngsters are braced for a busy few days.
And Avory admitted the duo had to administer some strong words at half-time of the defeat against Arsenal.
The Addicks were far from their fluent selves in the opening period, and found themselves a goal down thanks to Anthony Jeffrey's strike eight minutes before the break.
"You would expect Arsenal to have some good periods of possession football, because they have players who can build from the back and play good one or two-touch football and support each other well," said Steve.
"They got a grip of the game very early on, and the disappointing thing was that we were standing off them a little bit too much, particularly in the midfield areas. It wasn't as though they really created anything and got in behind us, though.
"The first goal was evidence that we didn't get close enough and that was an occasion on the edge of the box when we stood off their player, which allowed him the chance to get a good shot away."
There was plenty to ponder at the break, with Avory adding: "We had to have some sharp words with the lads at half-time, which has not been something we have had to do regularly throughout this season.
"We changed the shape as well, and to the player's credit, they responded, but we don't want it to be that way.
"They have got to be on the front foot ready for the physical confrontation and challenges from the first minute."
After Tobi Sho-Silva levelled matters, a rejuvenated Charlton looked a good bet to go on and win the game, particularly when Adebayo Azeez was sent clear to round the Gunners goalkeeper, only to have his shot cleared off the line by a defender.
To make matters worse, Arsenal, largely second best in the second period, hit back in the closing stages and grabbed the winner 10 minutes from time.
"We decided we would try to get an earlier ball into our front players after the break, and, most importantly, we wanted to make sure we won the ball more often and didn't allow Arsenal the same kind of room," continued Steve.
"We deservedly got the equaliser, having threatened since the restart, and in that 10-minute period after the equaliser I thought we would go on to win the game. I think everyone at the game thought we had won it with Ade's chance, but it wasn't to be."
Fulham, who rose to the top of their regional group with a win against West Ham United last weekend, are next on the agenda for a Charlton side that has suffered just one away loss this season.
"This group is a very tight group, and I noticed after last weekend's games that there are only two points between the top five," noted Avory.
"All the games in this section are tough games, and that continues with Fulham.
"The way the results went on Saturday meant we dropped down a little bit, but we've got an excellent opportunity over these next two weeks.
"We've got a fantastic seven days to look forward to in terms of matches. We have Fulham, who at the moment are riding high at the top, then the FA Youth Cup, which everybody looks forward to every season, and then we have Crystal Palace, who are in second place at the moment."
Charlton last met Fulham in pre-season, when Joe Pigott hit a hat-trick in a 4-0 victory at Motspur Park. Sho-Silva was also on target that day and the Addicks claimed four points against the Cottagers last season.
At Motspur Park on November 6th last year, Sho Silva's 30th-minute goal proved decisive in a 1-0 success, and honours ended even between the two sides at Sparrows Lane in April thanks to a late leveller from Harry Osborne.
Avory continued: "The pitch there is fantastic and they have some good facilities.
"We played very well in our final pre-season match against them back in August. That gave us every right to be confident about the season, but that's gone now.
"We are 10 matches in now, and we've noticed that Fulham have had a good start to the season. I'm not surprised by that because they have got some good players. Their academy manager Kit Symons always has them very well organised."
After Fulham, it's off to Julius Martin Lane to take on Soham in the first round of the FA Youth Cup on Monday (7.45pm).
Tickets are priced £3 adults and £2 concessions for the game, which comes hot on the heels of the league clash against Fulham, and a full preview of the cup match will appear on the official website on Monday morning.
http://www.cafc.co.uk/page/academydetail/0,,10267~2503970,00.html? (http://www.cafc.co.uk/page/academydetail/0,,10267~2503970,00.html?)
Momo Diame Fit For Sunday
Wigan Athletics midfield man Momo Diame is set to make a return to the team for Sunday's clash with Wolves, the Senegal international looked to have suffered a serious injury when Fulham midfield hatchet man Steve Sidwell cleaned him out in the 12th minute of last Saturday's game.
Surprisingly super efficient referee Mike Jones didn't even deem the challenge worthy of a free kick never mind a red card, which should have been the punishment issued to Sidwell for such a deliberate act.
Latics boss Roberto Martinez was left incensed by the challenge but he was a relieved man this week when the news came that his star player was set to be fine for Sundays important clash at Molineux.
Speaking to the Latics official site Martinez said:'There was a feeling of relief yesterday (Monday) when we got the feedback from Momo's injury'
'When we saw the footage and the images after the game we all feared the worst, but he's been a very fortunate man that when Steve Sidwell makes the challenge Momo's foot is off the ground otherwise it would have been a certain broken leg.
'The damage he did suffer in the ankle ligaments has recovered very well and we hope that he'll resume training with the group before Sunday and he's got a chance of making the team.'
Read more: http://www.wigan.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261254#ixzz1ce8HWi95 (http://www.wigan.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=261254#ixzz1ce8HWi95)
Huddersfield Town boss not applying for Leicester City job
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/56286000/jpg/_56286467_114174353.jpg)
Clark joined Huddersfield as manager in 2008
Huddersfield Town manager Lee Clark says he will not be applying for the vacant job at Leicester City.
The 38-year-old has been linked with replacing Sven-Goran Eriksson.
But Clark told BBC Radio Leeds: "I'm not applying for any job - I'm a Huddersfield manager working for a fantastic man and a fantastic board.
"Whether it's just to fill areas in newspapers, I don't know, but there has certainly not been any contact with me or my representatives."
Leeds United manager Simon Grayson has also denied being interested in taking charge at the King Power Stadium.
He said: "It's a club that's very close to my heart but this club is far closer to my heart.
"I've had an affiliation with Leicester in the past, but my sole aim is to do well for Leeds.
"I'm totally focused on Leeds and that focus has never dwindled during my time at the club.
"I'm delighted things are going well here and I want to continue doing the job I've set out to do."
Former England Under-21 international Clark, who signed a new contract with the League One promotion hopefuls in July, added: "I've never had a phone call from Dean [Hoyle, the Huddersfield chairman] or [chief executive] Nigel Clibbens, to say that they've had contact.
"I'm here - I've never heard anything about any other job and that's the way it is.
"It's the same when my players get linked and you ask me. I think everyone should be proud inside the club if that's the case because it means we're doing something right.
Huddersfield drew 2-2 with Scunthorpe on Tuesday to extend their unbeaten run to 40 games.
And Clark added: "As you can see I was totally committed like always. I'm delighted we've made 40, and I'll be at the training ground in preparation for another tough game on Saturday."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/15457472.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/15457472.stm)
Opta Stats: Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur
The stats point to another three points for a Spurs team who love playing against Fulham
Fulham have failed to score in four of the last five Premier League matches with Tottenham.
Fulham have had one player booked in each of the last six Premier League games against Spurs.
The Cottagers have won just one of the last 10 Premier League games against Tottenham, losing four.
Martin Jol was Tottenham manager between November 2004 and October 2007, winning 47 of 113 Premier League matches (42%).
Rafael van der Vaart has scored six goals in his last five league games.
Having lost their opening two league games, Tottenham have won six and drawn one of their last seven (a run that started when Scott Parker made his debut for Spurs).
Fulham have only won two of their last 22 London derbies, but one of them came in their last London derby at Craven Cottage (6-0 v Queens Park Rangers).
Clint Dempsey has won more fouls than any other Premier League player this season (27).
Luka Modric should make his 100th Premier League appearances for Spurs in this game.
No side has been shown more yellow cards in the Premier League this season than the Cottagers (26, joint with Chelsea).
http://betting.betfair.com/football/opta/opta-stats-fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-031111.html? (http://betting.betfair.com/football/opta/opta-stats-fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-031111.html?)
Clark staying at Huddersfield as Leicester close in on United legend Keane
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Job to do: Lee Clark is staying at Huddersfield
Lee Clark has dismissed reports he is set to leave Huddersfield for the vacant manager's post at Leicester - leaving the door open for Roy Keane.
Clark and Keane were among the bookies' favourites for the Foxes job since Sven Goran Eriksson was sacked last week.
Clark has been attracting attention since leading Town, unbeaten in 16 League One games, to second in the table.
But he will not be succeeding Swede Eriksson at the King Power Stadium.
He said: 'We have woken up to another round of media speculation this morning regarding me and it is now escalating on a daily basis.
'I have tried not to comment on it up until this point as that is all it has been - speculation. I didn't want to give any substance to it. For me, it has been a case of business as usual this week.
'However, the speculation hasn't gone away and I apologise to anyone if not commenting on this earlier has caused any issues for the supporters. Regardless, now is the time that I want to put these rumours to an end.
'Obviously on a personal level it is satisfying to be linked to jobs at clubs in a higher division, but that is all I take from these links. Players get linked to other clubs when they are doing well and you have to take it as a compliment in that sense.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/11/03/article-2057083-0E84747000000578-644_468x286.jpg)
Gone: Sven Goran Eriksson was shown the door at Leicester City
'As I have also said, I believe these rumours are a compliment to Huddersfield Town too and we should take it as a positive that our success is catching the attention of people in the game outside of our area.
'However, I want to reiterate that I am 100 per cent committed to the Owner, the fans and the players at Huddersfield Town and I am totally focused on continuing this magnificent start to the season and getting this Club promoted.
'I am not interested in the Leicester vacancy.'
Former Newcastle midfielder Clark took the reins at Huddersfield in December 2008 after working as assistant to Glenn Roeder at Norwich.
Former Manchester United captain Keane wants the Leicester job having been without a club since he was sacked by Ipswich at the start of this year.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2057083/Lee-Clark-staying-Huddersfield-Leicester-close-Roy-Keane.html#ixzz1ceMwayBp (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2057083/Lee-Clark-staying-Huddersfield-Leicester-close-Roy-Keane.html#ixzz1ceMwayBp)
Pardew, Clark or Powell: who will be the next England manager?
Okay, if the next England manager has to be English, who do we choose? Here are some of the English manager currently employed as football managers (seems like a good filter), in order of preference (some rational, some not):
Alan Pardew – hmmmmmmmmmmm.
Lee Clark – knows how to win, was a good player, should be a dark horse, but ideally would have managed and succeeded in the Premiership. In that sense could've done with the Newcastle job.
Sam Allardyce – much as I hate the stereotyping of Allardyce as a manager, there's obviously substance in the complaints about his style. He is good at what he does, but this would send out the wrong messages to England fans. When sam hangs up his jacket he'll look back on a strong but under-appreciated career. If he wants to be an international manager, though, I think he'll be disappointed.
Chris Powell – interesting. I'd appoint him. Former Chairman of the PFA, actually played for England, and, much as I hate to say it (it should be – and will be – about merit) there's the minority angle. His Charlton side are going well and it would be a welcome shift from the 'famous person' approach to hiring
Roy Hodgson – probably not after Liverpool. He was fantastic with Switzerland though and absent any other strong candidates the FA could do a lot worse. They won't go down this road though because Hodgson's image has been tarnished by what happened at Anfield. Also England needs to be younger, more dynamic, and I don't know if Roy's the man for that.
Tony Mowbray – nice man, good football, but has he learned to defend? (this view may be out of date)
Brian McDermott – done surprisingly well at Reading and by all accounts very likeable. Not the sort of appointment we'd ever make but could do worse.
Nigel Clough – would be nice but hasn't shown he can win
Ian Holloway – would be fun but probably lacks requisite sophistication. Should probably start wearing glasses or something.
Harry Redknapp – Keegan all over again (a motivator, not a tactician), but with added 'character' question marks. I wouldn't...
Nigel Adkins – doing well at Southampton
Phil Brown – underrated – he achieved a lot at Hull – but obviously a no.
Simon Grayson – not setting the world alight at Leeds is he?
Paul Jewell – no.
Eddie Howe – no.
Micky Adams – nice as it would be, no.
Steve Bruce – doesn't really seem to have a clue. Buys his teams and no obvious plan. No.
Neil Warnock – ha, no.
Nigel Pearson – won over half his games when in charge of Leicester, but otherwise his CV isn't glittering
Others to throw into the mix: Steve Coppell wouldn't do it, Steve McLaren... oh, no, Gary Lineker (!), Paul Ince... oh I don't know. It's not great is it?
A lot of these names will never be considered. But it's not like the famous people have done better, is it?
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/11/03/pardew-clark-or-powell-who-will-be-the-next-england-manager/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/11/03/pardew-clark-or-powell-who-will-be-the-next-england-manager/?)
Fulham star hoping for right result against Wisla Krakow
"We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can"
Fulham midfielder Clint Dempsey is looking for the club to put their disappointment over Mousa Dembele's red card at Wisla Krakow behind them when the two sides meet again tonight.
Dembele was shown a straight red card for pushing Gervasio Nunez in the shoulder, although the Krakow player made a meal of the incident which helped get the Belgian international sent off.
Dempsey, who didn't travel to Poland, is looking for Fulham to get the right result against the Polish side.
"It is frustrating to see but what can you do about it? The ref made a decision that he felt was right," he said.
"Things, though, don't always happen the way you want and now we can only concentrate on tonight's game.
"We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can. Then, hopefully, we can get the right result."
http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_star_hoping_for_right_result_against_wisla_krakow_1_1116574? (http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_star_hoping_for_right_result_against_wisla_krakow_1_1116574?)
Quote from: WhiteJC on November 03, 2011, 06:28:41 AM
However, his agent, Hasan Cetinyaka has denied that the trip is planned and was quick to dismiss the stories about Fulham's interest.
He said: "I can not confirm that it is even Fulham. There may be two others. Perhaps Tottenham and Arsenal. It could be Everton."
Sounds weird, but that's Fulham done and dusted then. He's just trying to up the salaries. Oh these cocky agents.
Dempsey: Fulham need to Krak whip
Clint Dempsey admits Fulham need points from tonight's Europa League encounter with Wisla Krakow if they are to progress to the knockout stages.
The Cottagers are expected to name a strong line-up to face the Polish champions as they look to avoid a repeat of their 1-0 defeat in Poland.
The result at Stadion Miejski leaves the Cottagers second in Group K, three points behind Dutch outfit FC Twente and just a point ahead of both Odense BK and tonight's opponents Wisla.
"You never want to lose and because the table is so tight we need to win," Dempsey said.
"We need to get points as you don't want to be waiting until the last game to get our of the group stage.
"We're going to do everything we can to win the game.
"While the league is most important, so too is this competition as you want to be a part of as many competitions as you can.
"To play in these games gives you great memories.
"I mean getting to the Europa League final the last time we were in it is something I will never forget and hopefully we can have a nice little run.
"It is nice to be able to play in this competition as it allows you to play different teams from all over [Europe]."
Dempsey was rested for the first match with Wisla, which was marred by Moussa Dembele's controversial sending off.
The incident occurred when an innocuous passage of play flared up in Poland, with Dembele pushing over Wisla's Gervasio Nunez after he caught him on the back of the ankle.
The Argentinian midfielder went down clutching his face despite being pushed at shoulder height, leading referee Martin Hansson to hand the Belgium international a straight red card.
Dempsey watched the match on television but, while annoyed by the decision, remained philosophical about it.
"It is frustrating to see but what can you do about it? The ref made a decision that he felt was right.
"Things, though, don't always happen the way you want and now we can only concentrate on tonight's game.
"We need to take advantage of having the same amount of players as they do and play the football the way we know we can. Then, hopefully, we can get the right result."
Wisla's preparation for tonight's match did not go smoothly, with visa problems delaying the arrival at the team hotel of Serbian trio Milan Jovanic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev.
Coach Robert Maaskant told his club's official website ,www.wisla.krakow.pl: "We hope the problems with visas will be solved, and this trio will be able to play. We came here for a favorable outcome but it won't be easy."
http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/europaleague/story/fulham-v-wisla-krakow-clint-dempsey-europa-league-110311? (http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/europaleague/story/fulham-v-wisla-krakow-clint-dempsey-europa-league-110311?)
Fulham v Wisla Krakow: Match Preview
(http://www.givemefootball.com/GMF/files/ec/ecbe1802-2067-4945-9720-e12e4ed95316.jpg)
Fulham v Wisla Krakow;Europa League;Craven Cottage;Thurs, 3rd Nov; 2005 KO
Team news
Fulham are without Moussa Dembele, who was sent off in the side's last tie and is banned for this match. Olando Sa (hamstring), Phillipe Senderos (thigh) and Aaron Hughes (thigh) are also out of contention. Otherwise, Martin Jol is expected to select a strong squad.
For Wisla, Milan Jovanovic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev have all suffered knocks and are waiting to pass a fitness test to play.
Jol won't sanction acting
Martin Jol says he won't be encouraging his players to dive in tonight's Europa League match with Wisla Krakow, despite Fulham suffering at the hands of play-acting in their last tie with the Polish side.
Moussa Dembele was sent off last month after Gervasio Nunez fell down after a seemingly soft tackle. Nunez grabbed his face, when he was pushed at shoulder height, and Dembele was subsequently shown a red.
But Jol insists that Fulham won't play tit-for-tat tonight, as Wisla travel to Craven Cottage.
"I would have a word with [my player if they did what Nunez did] because it is not our style," he said. "You won't see that in our team.
"I felt the [referee] was quite experienced so it is about momentum.
"He has to make these decisions and probably in hindsight he would have seen it [was a mistake] because it was the fourth official that probably called it.
"It is a bit of teamwork so I don't want to blame him but it was certainly an awful match. If we had got a result we would be fine, you know?
"But we got reduced to 10 men and lost so it was almost like everything was for nothing and that was awful."
Fulham are currently second in the Group K table, and are three points adrift from FC Twente. The side desperately need a win tonight to stay in contention for the last 32.
"It is important for most of the teams to qualify, although English teams will say it is not the biggest thing in the world," he explained.
"I think Fulham raised their profile in Europe a couple of years ago when they reached the final so there is a culture in this squad that they want to do well and I agree with that.
"Twente play a weaker team in Odense so we have to take things in our hands. If we get a good result, we are halfway there."
http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/fulham-v-wisla-krakow-match-preview? (http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/fulham-v-wisla-krakow-match-preview?)
Wisla wait on trio as immigration issues could prevent them from facing Fulham
Wisla Krakow have yet to find out whether their three Serbian players will be allowed to play against Fulham in the Europa League this evening.
Milan Jovanic, Marko Jovanovic and Ivica Iliev were all held at immigration on Wednesday night when the team arrived from Poland as they did not have valid visas.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/11/03/article-0-0EA7426900000578-565_468x349.jpg)
Hold up: Marko Jovanovic may not face Fulham after being held up by immigration officials
The trio were eventually allowed entrance to the United Kingdom and joined up with the team at their hotel, but it is understood the club is still unsure whether they are allowed to play at Craven Cottage tonight.
As a result, Wisla flew in third-choice goalkeeper Filip Kurto this afternoon in case Novi Sad-born Jovanic is not allowed to play in west London.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2057150/Wisla-wait-trio-immigration-issues-prevent-facing-Fulham.html#ixzz1cepA5sOc (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2057150/Wisla-wait-trio-immigration-issues-prevent-facing-Fulham.html#ixzz1cepA5sOc)
No Motivation Necessary
Far from being just another routine Europa night against opponents we know little about, a certain Oscar Nunez elevates this tie to a whole new level
Yes, the aptly named Oscar is the disgraceful cheat from Wisla Krakow who got Dembele unjustly sent off two weeks ago in Poland. A crime matched only by the resounding silence on the issue coming out of Uefa's HQ in Nyon. Thursday's game at the Cottage gives Fulham the perfect opportunity to serve up the Mafia's version of retribution. What a pity we can't use the head of feeble Swedish ref Hansson for the purpose.
He will not be visible tonight thank goodness. The man with the whistle is Mr. Ozkaya from Turkey...not the most experienced on the UEFA list, he'd better be up to the task. Jol promises a near full strength side to ensure it's us and Twente who progress from this group. Any slip up tonight and Wisla will fancy sneaking ahead of us in the race for 2nd place. Our last game in this group remember promises to be our toughest - away to Twente.
What's the form guide? The Whites took points off Wigan at the weekend with a remarkable performance. Remarkable for being utterly inept and third-rate against the bottom club. Jol picks the side and he alone must take the blame. It was a massive step back from the Rangers result. Neither Dembele or AJ were playing to their strengths Saturday. Our target man received zero support, the midfield couldn't string two passes together, our left full-back looked like a pub team player. The personnel will change tonight - and for the better.
The rumour mill is gathering speed with the next transfer window less than two months away. Reports tell us Jol is pursuing one, possibly two full-backs, a striker and a winger. Need we mention a replacement for Danny too? That surely must be glaringly obvious, even to the Cottage cat. Gossip on the suggested reinforcements suggest the boss realises he has only half a team at present and one or two of his recruits have been a tad disappointing.
I plumbed the depths of despair both in Poland for the first leg, and last time out at the DW. It cannot surely be so sterile again. Under lights with a fired up crowd - and plenty of Poles around the ground from what I hear - this should be another famous Europa night for FFC - unbeaten at home in all European competition going back to 2002, a run of 21 matches. If any of our big players get whacked or see red the roof will come off, and Wisla might find themselves bushwhacked by fans on the way back to the airport...
Mark and newly crowned USA Player of the Year Clint say the team are well up for this, only a pity we have to commit our best players 4 days ahead of the Spurs derby - a match of far more importance for our season. Maybe Wisla will have their eye on the weekend too. They match up against arch rival Cracovia next, and don't to my eye look like a team that travels well. Small and nimble across the pitch, we never saw the keeper tested in Cracow, but for tonight we have to show some muscle and really get into them.
(http://images.teamtalk.com/11/09/402x210/Zamora_2649943.jpg)
© Getty Images
I have my ticket for the Hammy End and hope you all enjoy a spirited display from our wonderful club. Get this one wrong Martin and the natives will turn ugly I can promise you! It's live on 5 and ESPN3 in the States so let's show the bigger audience the quality we clearly have in our team. Bobby to score and three points off the Polish cheats will set me up for Sunday. And for heaven's sake Martin, let's see some WIDTH.
http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2011/11/no_motivation_necessary.php? (http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2011/11/no_motivation_necessary.php?)
Fulham acting clever in Europe
Andy Johnson instigates a 'can't beat them join them' message for divers
(http://www.givemefootball.com/GMF/files/99/99b42006-0f3b-4699-b67e-4ae3df0db41a.jpg)
After Moussa Dembele was sent off against Wisla Krakow in the Europa League a fortnight ago, many feel at the instigation of Gervasio Nunez, striker Andy Johnson has prompted his teammates to join in for some European style play acting.
"There's a lot of diving, a lot of play-acting going on. We've just got to be clever," said Johnson.
"Maybe we need to do it a bit ourselves just to keep up with these teams and make things fair."
Whether diving counts as being 'clever' remains to be seen, and it will be interesting to see if manager Martin Jol supports his striker after suggesting he would be against such antics from his players.
Johnson did throw caution to the wind however: "I think you need to be careful. You need to be a bit wiser in Europe. That's always been the case."
The former England striker's caution should have only been towards the referee, he probably should have considered his manager.
Martin Jol said earlier on, "I would have a word with [my player if they did what Nunez did] because it is not our style," he said. "You won't see that in our team."
http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/fulham-acting-clever-in-europe? (http://www.givemefootball.com/europa-league/fulham-acting-clever-in-europe?)
