Hereenveen pair take a tour of the Cottage
Further to a report in the Sun today, Dutch paper De Telegraaf confirmed that Heerenveen wingers
Luciano Narsingh and Oussama Assaidi were given a tour of Craven Cottage on Monday. Both wingers will soon be into the last year of their contracts and signed with Martin Jol's agent Mino Raiola earlier this year.
Heerenveen had given permission to allow the players to fly to London and technical Director Johan Hansma said "We have the players Mino Raiola and given space to talk,'' "Narsingh Assaidi and Assaidi should have a good feeling at a club. It makes no sense if we reach an agreement with a club and the players do not want to go. For the transfer to suceed, you have to have 3 interested parties".
It's interesting that we're looking to make moves early and the fact that Heerenveen allowed the players to travel, must mean an agreement in principal is in place. Having Martin Jol's agent involved alludes to the fact we have a strong chance to land these players.
So, who are they?
Luciano Narsingh is a Dutch 21 year old right sided forward or winger who in 34 appearances this season has scored 8 goals and provided 22 assists.
Oussama Assaidi is a 23 year old, left sided attacking midfielder who in 27 appearances has scored 10 goals and provided 7 assists.
These could be exciting additions for Fulham but if they joined it would accelerate the rumours of the departures of Dempsey and/or Dembele.
Below are some YouTube video's of them in action:-
Oussama Assaidi - Magic Touch (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mxCMq8gJQI#ws)
Luciano Narsingh assists and goals sc heerenveen 2011-2012 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMTe-Z4WEG0#ws)
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2012/5/8/3006600/hereenveen-pair-take-a-tour-of-the-cottage? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2012/5/8/3006600/hereenveen-pair-take-a-tour-of-the-cottage?)
Fulham 'to beat Newcastle and Everton to signing of duo'
Fulham are poised to beat Newcastle and Everton to the signings of two highly-rated wingers from Dutch side Heerenveen, The Sun report.
Luciano Narsingh, 21, is tipped to be included in Holland's Euro 2012 squad, while Moroccan international Oussama Assaidi, 23, is also regarded as a top prospect.
As well as Everton and Newcastle, PSV Eindhoven, Ajax and mega-rich Russian outfit Anzhi Makhachkala are said to have been interested in them.
But they are believed to be on their way to Craven Cottage in a deal worth £10m after Heerenveen accepted an offer.
http://www.westlondonsport.com/paper-talk/fulham-to-beat-newcastle-and-everton-to-signing-of-duo-report/ (http://www.westlondonsport.com/paper-talk/fulham-to-beat-newcastle-and-everton-to-signing-of-duo-report/)
Arsenal 'ready to battle Liverpool for Clint Dempsey transfer'
Arsenal are reportedly ready to take on Liverpool for the signature of Fulham's Clint Dempsey when the summer transfer window opens.
The USA international is enjoying his best season for the Cottagers since his arrival from New England Revolution in 2007 and his 23 goals have made him one of the most in-demand players in English football.
Dempsey has just one year remaining on his current contract and, although Fulham have offered him a three-year extension, rival clubs are keen to take advantage of the situation.
Arsenal are set to make the first move as Arsene Wenger looks to add more firepower to his squad, reports the Sun.
The Gunners boss apparently sees the American as the ideal man to play behind Robin van Persie and new signing Lukas Podolski next season.
Wenger is likely to face competition from Liverpool for the 29-year-old, after Reds chairman Tom Werner said any team would be lucky to have him.
Roma are also rumoured to be keen on Dempsey, who could be available for as little as £7million.
Read more: http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/898372-arsenal-ready-to-battle-liverpool-for-clint-dempsey-transfer#ixzz1uLAPxF64 (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/898372-arsenal-ready-to-battle-liverpool-for-clint-dempsey-transfer#ixzz1uLAPxF64)
Cottagers eye Heerenveen pair
Fulham eye Narsingh and Assaidi
(http://img.skysports.com/11/11/660x350/Narsingh_2675901.jpg)
Luciano Narsingh: Travelled for Fulham talks on Monday
Fulham have opened talks with Dutch outfit Heerenveen over their wingers Luciano Narsingh and Oussama Assaidi.
Narsingh, 21, and Assaidi, 23, both travelled to London on Monday to tour Fulham's training facilities and ground.
They were accompanied by their agent Mino Raiola who began talks with the club over personal terms, as Fulham look to strike a double deal.
Heerenveen confirmed they gave both players permission to travel to England.
"We have given Mino Raiola and the players the space to talk," Heerenveen technical director Johan Hansma told De Telegraaf.
"Narsingh and Assaidi had to have a good feeling with a club. It doesn't make any sense if we reach an agreement with a club and the players won't want to go there. To succeed in a transfer there are three sides needed."
Narsingh, who has been named in Holland's preliminary squad for Euro 2012, and Assaidi - a Moroccan international - both have one year left on their current deals at the Abe Lenstra.
Ajax and PSV Eindhoven are also very keen on Narsingh and are also due to hold talks this week.
Chaldi
Meanwhile, reports in Holland also claim that Fulham are keen on FC Twente ace Nacer Chadli.
Twente chairman Joop Munsterman denied claims that he had given permission to Chadli's agent Daniel Evrard to talk with Fulham or any club.
Munsterman told Voetbal International: "I have become a little bit nervous of Evrard. He always drops a couple of names of clubs, but they never contact us. We aren't talking with any club right now."
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7739421/? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7739421/?)
Fulham close in on highly-rated Heerenveen duo as Dempsey nears exit
Fulham are set to complete the £10million capture of Heerenveen wingers Luciano Narsingh and Oussama Assaidi.
The pair were given a tour of Craven Cottage on Monday, and are both poised to agree terms on a five-year deal.
According to a report in The Sun, Fulham have fought off interest from PSV Eindhoven, Ajax and Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala to land the highly-rated duo.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/05/08/article-0-12E46FEA000005DC-868_468x296.jpg)
On the move: Narsingh (left) was shown around Craven Cottage on Monday
Everton and Newcastle were also said to be monitoring the situation.
Narsingh, 21, has been included in Holland's 36-man preliminary squad for this summer's European Championships.
Morocco international Assaidi, 23, turned down the option to play for Holland despite having dual passports.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/05/08/article-0-12E4C3B7000005DC-98_468x310.jpg)
In demand: Everton and Newcastle were monitoring Assaidi (pictured) and Narsingh
Martin Jol's move to snap up the pair comes with Clint Dempsey edging towards the craven Cottage exit.
The race to sign Dempsey this summer is hotting up as Arsenal prepare to make the first move for the Fulham forward.
Liverpool are believed to be the favourites to sign the USA international as he stalls over accepting the offer of a new three-year contract.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2141136/Fulham-close-Heerenveen-duo-Luciano-Narsingh-Oussama-Assaidi.html#ixzz1uLB3Sbqi (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2141136/Fulham-close-Heerenveen-duo-Luciano-Narsingh-Oussama-Assaidi.html#ixzz1uLB3Sbqi)
Fulham's Summer 2012 Transfer Targets
Lack of finances usually dictates Fulham's transfer policy. Over the years, managers at Craven Cottage have had to bring in players at the lowest cost possible.
In January, Martin Jol acquired the services of Pavel Pogrebnyak from Stuttgart on loan. He has proved to be a very worthy signing.
Once again Fulham's lack of money will influence their transfer activity this summer. However, recent speculation linking Clint Dempsey with a move away from the London club could provide money to be re-invested in the squad.
Naturally, Jol will hope to keep the American midfielder at Craven Cottage, after an outstanding season. But if he were to move on, the transfer revenue could prove to be very useful.
Transfer Targets
Pavel Pogrebnyak – Fulham – Striker
Pavel Pogrebnyak says he wants to make his loan move to Fulham a permanent one.
The Russia international, on loan from Stuttgart, has scored 6 goals in 11 Premier League appearances since his Craven Cottage arrival on January deadline day.
Pogrebnyak will be a free agent at the end of the season when his contract with Stuttgart expires, and the 28-year-old is hopeful of extending his stay with the west London club.
(http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Pavel+Pogrebnyak+Fulham+v+Wigan+Athletic+Premier+Oobs2pR4RyPl.jpg)
Dirk Kuyt – Liverpool – Striker/Winger
Liverpool will step up their efforts to persuade Fulham to sell Clint Dempsey by offering Dutch international Dirk Kuyt in part exchange for the American international. The experienced attacker has become something of a bit part player at Anfield this term but could still be a player that would interest Craven Cottage boss Martin Jol.
A move to London may tempt Kuyt and if Jol feels he is powerless to keep Dempsey from pushing for a move away from Fulham then perhaps the addition of the proven Premier League talent could appeal to the Dutch boss.
(http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Dirk+Kuyt+Liverpool+v+Arsenal+Premier+League+bFEhAf69UiMl.jpg)
Chris Gunter – Nottingham Forest – Defender
Martin Jol has emerged as the lead contender to capture the signature of Nottingham Forest full-back Chris Gunter.
The Fulham boss is looking to add strength in defence in the coming transfer window and will target the former Tottenham and Cardiff defender.
The 22-year-old Wales international – who can play in either full-back position – is also being chased by Blackburn and Norwich.
(http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Chris+Gunter+Nottingham+Forest+v+Newcastle+zNlzWgYHGvsl.jpg)
Raul – Schalke 04 – Striker
Former Real Madrid striker Raul is being chased by Newcastle United and Fulham FC. The 34 year old played his last home game for Schalke having spent 2 seasons there with an impressive scoring record. The former Spanish international has scored 40 goals in 98 games but has decided his time is up and he wants to seek a new challenge.
Newcastle and Fulham have a fight on their hands as Raul has said he does not want to move to a major European league which suggest the riches of Qatar are on offer.
Sources say that both English clubs have approached Raul's representatives and are trying to strike a deal. Raul has one more game at Schalke and a decision on his future will be made sooner rather than later.
(http://www2.pictures.gi.zimbio.com/Raul+Liverpool+v+Real+Madrid+UEFA+Champions+OoQ_S4Nadcsl.jpg)
http://soccerlens.com/fulhams-summer-2012-transfer-targets/93278/? (http://soccerlens.com/fulhams-summer-2012-transfer-targets/93278/?)
Academy Final Confirmation
The Club can confirm that Fulham will play Blackburn Rovers in the Premier Academy U18 League Final at Craven Cottage on Saturday 12th May (KO 2pm).
Having secured the Premier Academy League Group A title for the second consecutive season in late April, Kit Symons' team defeated Leicester City by two goals to one in the Premier Academy League Play-Off Semi Final at Motspur Park last weekend to book their rightful place in the Final.
Supporters wishing to attend Saturday's match at Craven Cottage can purchase their match tickets at the gate. Adult tickets will be priced at £3 and Juniors (U16) and Concessions (Over 65) just £1.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/AcademyFinal.aspx?#ixzz1uLCIcg2L (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/AcademyFinal.aspx?#ixzz1uLCIcg2L)
That back heeled goal near the end of Assaidi's video is outragous :medal:
Quote from: leonffc on May 09, 2012, 07:33:16 AM
That back heeled goal near the end of Assaidi's video is outragous :medal:
to be honest i dont have time for that...just stick it in the net! why risk messing it up!
I remember similar You Tube highlights making Bryan Ruiz look like one of the greatest players ever to put on a football shirt. Without doubting the quality of either of these two players it seems to me that the Dutch league affords players the sort of time and space they are unlikely to encounter in the Prem. It doesn't mean to say that they won't cop perfectly well, but the transition can take some time.
Family Fun Day
Family Fun Day returned to Bishops Park prior to Fulham's 2-1 victory over Sunderland on Sunday.
Fulham fans were invited to take part in a number of free activities in Bishops Park. The Fulham Football Club Foundation ran seven-a-side matches inside an inflatable pitch and there were also Target Games with free goody bags handed out to supporters.
Four lucky supporters who won the Crossbar Challenge were invited to take on Billy the Badger in an obstacle course race at half-time on the Craven Cottage turf.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/FulhamFamilyFunDay.aspx?#ixzz1uNkJztey (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/FulhamFamilyFunDay.aspx?#ixzz1uNkJztey)
Kelly and Duff Make Squad
With our season closing at White Hart Lane next Sunday, domestic football will, for us, take a break.
But, there is still the Euro 2012 Finals to consider and with the Republic of Ireland naming their squad yesterday it was pleasing to see that both Stephen Kelly and Damien Duff have been selected.
We`ll be tuning in to see how they do, about you?
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=281889#ixzz1uNki9qnO (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=281889#ixzz1uNki9qnO)
Double Transfer Swoop
Martin Jol, according to a very good source, has already started to make plans for next season.
A cloak and dagger operation has seen our Dutch manager return to Dutch football to snap up a couple of highly-rated players in a deal rated in the region of £10 million.
We`re informed that under top security, the two players were shown around Craven Cottage on Saturday evening and that a deal is imminent.
So who are they?
Well our very good source tells us that they are - Luciano Narsingh and Oussama Assaidi - currently starring in the Dutch league for Heerenveen and that both have been offered five year contracts.
All that remains is for the deals to be confirmed.
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=281890#ixzz1uNktleFV (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=281890#ixzz1uNktleFV)
Season Ticket Update(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/SeasonTickets/Believe-TShirt.jpg)
The Seat Hold deadline has now passed which means that current Season Ticket Holders seats can no longer be guaranteed.
Season Ticket Holders wishing to move seats for next season will have exclusive access to released seats between Tuesday 15th May and Tuesday 22nd May. Find out more about moving seats by visiting our Season Ticket FAQ page.
All remaining released seats will then go on General Sale from 9am on Tuesday 22nd May, with Early Bird Prices available until 9am Friday 1st June.
Info and Prices
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/SeasonTicketkeydates.aspx?#ixzz1uNl86pD4 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/SeasonTicketkeydates.aspx?#ixzz1uNl86pD4)
Fulham boss gears up for Spurs return
MARTIN Jol admits he would not have been relishing his emotional return to White Hart Lane, had Fulham needed points to stay up in their final game of the season.
Tottenham will be gunning for victory in Sunday's last day of action in the Premier League, in the hope of overtaking arch-rivals Arsenal for third place. That is now the only guarantee of a Champions League spot next season.
But the Whites manager – who makes his first visit since being fired from the Spurs hotseat - says neither he nor his team will be feeling any pressure this weekend, now they have achieved their objective of finishing in the top half.
"At the start of the season, when I saw the schedule, and I saw the game against Spurs in the last game of the season, I thought it could be difficult," Jol said.
"An away game at Spurs, if there's a lot to play for, is a difficult game. But now we have 52 points, there's no problem and we can enjoy the day. There's not a lot of pressure on us.
"It will be nice to have three points and, I wanted to say spoil their day, but of course we don't want that. I would like Spurs to play in the Champions League, of course.
"But on the other hand, if we can get three points there, we can get to seventh. It will be exciting and I love this excitement."
Jol left Tottenham under a cloud six years ago when he nearly qualified them for a Champions League spot. He insists he bears no grudges towards their chairman Daniel Levy for giving him the elbow, but he will enjoy the opportunity of getting one over his old team – now that Fulham can approach the match in relaxed fashion.
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2012/05/08/fulham-boss-gears-up-for-spurs-return-64767-30926099/?#ixzz1uNlLuzLo (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2012/05/08/fulham-boss-gears-up-for-spurs-return-64767-30926099/?#ixzz1uNlLuzLo)
All Things Must Pass
(http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Clint+Dempsey+Fulham+v+Newcastle+United+Premier+o0PQsjJ2_OIl.jpg)
© Getty Images
And if all things must pass, even a pyramid won't last. A lyric from a hugely under-rated act of the 80's for you to work out. Fulham Football Club is a force for change and progress. We should not fear it.
There's no denying it was hard going watching the squad's lap of honour after Sunday's win. Nothing to complain about from the afternoon's entertainment with a 10th home win achieved in fine style. All three goals dazzled but as Jol said afterwards with a dash more luck in front of goal Fulham could and should have won by a comfortable margin. Finishing top ten is now guaranteed, and we can approach the final weekend's trip to WHL with real confidence of picking up more points. To end the season 7th and with a new points high from our EPL season would reflect on an excellent run since Christmas. The bittersweet side of Sunday came when studying faces on the lap of honour to try and second guess who might not be wearing Fulham white next August. Every fan at the ground will have harboured such thoughts.
For the past 11 months, yes it's been a long season, all credit to the manager for getting his style across finally, and to the players too for raising their game. We sensed there was real quality in the team, but how frustrating was it to wait six games for that first win, fold at places like Wolves and Blackburn, and even as late as March turn in a woeful performance at a floundering Villa. Not to mention our excruciating exits from all three cup competitions.
It is no exaggeration to suggest we could be very close to a Champions League spot next season. Extrapolating our results from the 37 games to date you can make a convincing case for saying we should be 11 points better off and sitting above Chelsea. Think back. Three points tossed away after Bobby misses an open goal in the final minute v Everton. Two more dropped to a 94th minute header at Norwich that could so easily have been prevented. Two given up late on to WBA on Feb 1st, a point squandered at Villa with the last kick after Mark's fumble, denied a point at United by inept refereeing in not giving the penalty, likewise Chelsea denying us a win with the 'penalty that never was.'
This is no hard luck story. Add in the number of times we've hit wood and even a neutral would admit we aint had too much luck along the way. And how do Fulham play the game? No player red carded all league season, and Gera the only man to see red in 100 odd games. Never mind our final league position, we should be invited into the Europa League as a badge of honour, just as past champions are invited back to the Masters. Consider this. When was the last time you spotted an unsavoury story concerning a Fulham player or employee? No night club rucks, no drink driving, philandering with bimbos, racial slurs, daft comments to the tabloids. Crikey, nobody likes a saint, but we sound pretty much like the model professional football club. No wonder we are consistently overlooked by the media and MOTD. We are almost boring...
Forgive me for blowing my own trumpet, but you all saw my take on Hodgson's appointment. I'd even gone out on a limb a week before the announcement urging the FA to make a brave decision. And I'll be damned, they did. Plenty of writers and bloggers have since played catch up and come round to appreciating the plus points of life without 'Arry at international level. So here's another test for the nation's scribes. When they all stop slavering over Mancini's Citeh and having served up a ton of hyperbole on the Champions League final, who before we get into the Euros might find space to file a considered piece on al Fayed's journey with Fulham and the progress of our 'little' club? Don't hold your breath...With any well run organisation, the tone is set from the man at the top. I bet there's not a journo from the West End to Wapping who would ever have forecast how much MaF has kept in the background since 1997, considering his previous taste for gathering headlines and publicity.
And as Blackburn, and probably Bolton, head back to the 2nd tier, Fulham are looking only to go higher. So back to my theme. Quite frankly, our number 23 walked the turf with head down as if he'd dropped his wedding ring during the course of the match. I know Deuce can be a pretty laconic character and he's no heart-on-the sleeve sissy - even Jol described him thus - but to me that was a man closing the chapter on five fantastic years of great memories down by the Thames. THANK YOU for every minute you bust a gut for the cause. Now tell your agent to give me that call and let's write the book. Goal number 50 was another beauty and fittingly no man has now made more appearances for the Whites in the Premier League I believe.
As for our other goalscorer. Well, Moussa himself admitted he should have had a hat-trick. His talent is immense, were he to add some clinical finishing to his game he would indeed be the complete footballer. A Cottage version of Lionel Messi. But then of course, he wouldn't be hanging around at Fulham. Will he stay or will he go? Younger than Clint, he might be persuaded to give us another season. The bottom line with every single member of the set up is that money talks, and in the modern era all power sits with the players. And in light of the terms of employment pre-Bosman, who can argue with that.
The sour note for supporters of course in all this, is that our heroes literally just slip away in the night. Rarely is there the closure you get from a veteran signing off at the end of a fabulous career a la Shearer. I remember sitting with John Colllins at Motspur after he hung up his boots. We were at a table in the canteen there as the players final wage packets of the season came round. Once pocketed, John quietly took his leave, shook a few hands and drifted away into the car park for the last time. Eerily strange, no big send off, and when I asked John what he planned to do next, he just shrugged and shuffled off the stage.
Personally, if Clint goes chasing his Champions League dream, I hope it is outside the UK. It will be very hard to see him back at Craven Cottage in an opposition shirt. No point in dwelling on it till it happens. Let the travelling support Sunday lead our appreciation and here's hoping Dempsey hasn't quite finished with his goalscoring exploits for FFC just yet. A win over Spuds...now that really would put the icing on the cake of a run in to remember.
As Jol dodged the question Sunday when asked about the future of the double D's, "I prefer not to dwell on the negatives right now after this win," I am of a mind to think the die may be cast. But as all things must pass, an incontrovertible truth of human existence, I am excited by what the summer holds and who Fulham have on the radar for next season. Remember Jol's task to reduce the age of the squad and bring 'sexy football' to SW6 still has a way to go...and as we know from the new away kit, the future is BLACK, WHITE and now ORANGE!
More news before the Spurs game, and then we can all go and have a lie down. Thanks for following this blog over the past two years. It has been a lot of fun. COYW!!!
Twitter@fulhamphil
http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2012/05/all_things_must_pass.php? (http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2012/05/all_things_must_pass.php?)
Jol set for double winger swoop
Fulham are reportedly set to raid Dutch side Heerenveen for wingers Luciano Narsingh and Oussama Assaidi this summer.
Cottagers boss Martin Jol has been keeping tabs on both players, who have been plying their trade in his homeland this past season, and invited them to London on Monday, along with their agent Mino Raiola, to view the club's training facilities and discuss a deal.
Jol is now looking to agree personal terms with 21-year-old Narsingh, who has been named in the Netherlands' preliminary squad for Euro 2012, and 23-year-old Morocco international, Assaidi, with a view to wrapping up a double swoop.
Heerenveen have confirmed that they gave both players permission to travel to England for talks with Fulham, despite them both having a year remaining on their respective current deals.
"We have given Mino Raiola and the players the space to talk," Heerenveen technical director Johan Hansma told De Telegraaf.
"Narsingh and Assaidi had to have a good feeling with a club. It doesn't make any sense if we reach an agreement with a club and the players won't want to go there. To succeed in a transfer there are three sides needed."
Meanwhile, FC Twente's chairman Joop Munsterman has scotched reports that he has given Fulham permission to speak to star man Nacer Chadli.
Munsterman told Voetbal International: "I have become a little bit nervous of Evrard. He always drops a couple of names of clubs, but they never contact us. We aren't talking with any club right now."
http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/jol-set-for-double-winger-swoop-1426808.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/jol-set-for-double-winger-swoop-1426808.html?)
"Those Two Dutch Guys" On Jol's Radar
What is Martin Jol trying to do to us writers? First Pavel Pogrebnywhyme and now Luciano Narsicanttakeitanymore and Oussama Assaijustkillmenow.
No wonder everyone's calling them "The Dutch Duo" or "The two Dutch guys." I think I'll go with Heerenveen 1 and Heerenveen 2. Even that's a pain. At least we didn't get their former Heerenveen teammates Balazs Dzsudzsak or Anzhi Makhachkala. I might have cried.
In all seriousness, looks like Martin Jol is looking to replace Moussa Dembele and Clint Dempsey, which is prudent on his part. These seem to be more than just rumors, since their Eredivisie club Heerenveen has already confirmed they're in London touring Fulham's grounds, and their agent Mino Raiola said they're beginning preliminary discussions. That could simply be their agent trying to drum up quick interest, but seems to me if they are indeed at Craven Cottage and Motspur Park, this may be much more than rumors.
The rumored transfer fee is around £10 million for both together (package deal!) and word is that's pretty reasonable for two kids who have performed incredibly well.
Here's a brief overview of each potential new Cottager:
Luciano Narsingh: (Heerenveen 1)
(http://www.theelastico.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/lucianonarsingh.jpg)
Narsingh is a 21 year old Dutch international who has already been named in Holland's 36-man preliminary Euro 2012 squad. Primarily a right winger, Narsingh is an assist machine, something that Fulham could absolutely make use of, especially if Dembele and/or Dempsey are headed out. In 34 league matches this season in the Eredivisie, Narsingh has 8 goals and a whopping 22 assists, which leads the entire Eredivisie. Also in 5 league cup matches he's got 4 goals and 4 assists. His assist totals are no doubt helped by Heerenveen holding the league's scoring leader Bas Dost, who's banged in 32 goals this season, but that relationship is no doubt symbiotic, and the fact that Narsingh is part of a team feeding Dost's goal tally is sure to add to his value.
In fact, despite having the highest minutes total on the Eredivisie leaderboard, he's still ON the leaderboard (9th to be exact) in minutes per point (a point consisting of a goal or an assist, I went all NHL on you) with a point every 96.77 minutes. That means he's producing something just about every match, and playing a LOT. If you look at his match total (33) and his minutes total (2906), and do the math, he's playing an average of 88 minutes a match. Now that's work rate and durability for you, especially for a 21 year old. It also means he's too valuable to the club to take off the pitch. Looks like this kid would be a heck of an addition.
Narsingh is a product of the Ajax youth academy and has stated a few times he'd like to play for them eventually.
Oussama Assaidi: (Heerenveen 2)
(http://www.lc.nl/images/cci_images/article14443743.ece/BINARY/original/B82447105Z.1_20111209121227_000%2BGOC8J0QF.1.jpg)
A natural left winger, Assaidi is a dual citizen, with Dutch and Moroccan citizenship and eligibility, but turned down the chance to be on the Dutch squad to play for the Moroccan team last February. The 23 year old landed at Heerenveen in 2009 for the 09/10 season after they purchased him from the AZ Alkmaar youth ranks, and got the chance to not only help the club in the Eredivisie, but also appeared in the Europa League that year. He's played in 22 matches this season, striking 10 goals and assisting in 7 others.
He plays a little more back than Heerenveen 1, which reduces his goal and assist numbers (ala Moussa Dembele) but his value is still high, as we've seen with Dembele, who has little to show for in terms of goal numbers, but is still a hot commodity.
Both these young men are most valuable for their crossing ability, something that to be honest Fulham lacks quite a bit. Most of their attacks develop through the middle, and although Damien Duff is a valuable man to have on the flanks, he isn't as sharp as he used to be, and is definitely on the decline. Aside from him, the best crossers on the club are probably full-backs.
Replacing Dempsey and/or Dembele is clearly on Martin Jol's mind, and he's going to the place he knows best to do it, his homeland.
http://fulhamsfinest.com/2012/05/08/those-two-dutch-guys-on-jols-radar/? (http://fulhamsfinest.com/2012/05/08/those-two-dutch-guys-on-jols-radar/?)
U18s face Blackburn in Academy final on Saturday
by DAN on MAY 9, 2012
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Woodrow/General1.jpg)
The club have confirmed that the Premier Academy Under 18 League Final between Fulham and Blackburn Rovers will take place at Craven Cottage this Saturday, kicking off at 2pm.
The Whites, who won the Group A title for the second successive season, booked their place in this year's final with a 2-1 win over Leicester City at Motspur Park last weekend. Kit Symons' side now face Rovers, who beat Newcastle 2-0 in the other semi-final on Saturday.
Fulham's youngsters will looking to end another excellent campaign in style and we'd encourage those of you in need of your football fix to head down to the Cottage on Saturday. Tickets are priced at £3 for adults and £1 for concessions (those aged under 16 and over 65).
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2012/05/u18s-face-blackburn-in-academy-final-on-saturday/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2012/05/u18s-face-blackburn-in-academy-final-on-saturday/?)
Record In Sight(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Kelly/KellySunderlandNews.jpg)
Stephen Kelly is hoping to break Fulham's record points tally in the Barclays Premier League against Spurs on Sunday in the final match of the 2011/12 campaign.
Last weekend's victory over Sunderland at Craven Cottage moved Fulham just a point shy of their record haul of 53 points (2008-09 season) and Kelly is now looking forward to what he predicts will be a highly competitive match at White Hart Lane this weekend.
"I was delighted with the result against Sunderland on Sunday and it was a nice way to end the season at Craven Cottage," said Kelly. "You always want to give the fans a win in the last home game of the season.
"It was a good performance and I thought we looked very comfortable in the first half and passed the ball really well. They made a few changes which changed the game a little bit in the second half but I still thought we were comfortable and we defended well.
"Hopefully we can get a few more points on Sunday at White Hart Lane and break the Club's record points tally in the Premier League.
"We want to end the season in style and it's going to be a very competitive game against Spurs on Sunday, because they're trying to get in the Champions League and we're trying to break our record points tally."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/KellySpursPreview.aspx?#ixzz1uNnbk01r (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/KellySpursPreview.aspx?#ixzz1uNnbk01r)
Who and how, against Fulham?
In recent months, every game is a must win, but as we reach the final game of the season, it will be all or nothing against Fulham.
Spurs will of course be disappointed not to have 3rd place in their own hands, and for all the moans and groans from everyone, they really should have rolled over a very average Villa on Sunday and taken advantage of Arsenal`s dropping two points against Norwich. Will they slip up again at WBA in what will be Roy Hodgson`s final game in charge, but effectively they are playing for pride and perhaps the respectability of securing a top ten finish, which will be seen as a positive for the club.
Everton will see a season finishing above Liverpool as a major plus and they will achieve it if they beat Newcastle and better Liverpool`s result at Swansea. Of course Everton getting anything against Newcastle should so Spurs and Arsenal a favour and though in truth their form remains a little too inconsistent, they are not a side you want to face if you need a win and are probably feeling the nerves.
The reality for Spurs is that they have to win and worry about the others later. They have to expect Arsenal and Newcastle to get 3 points, but will know that if they match that they will secure at least 4th place and CL football, unless Chelsea beat Bayern Munich on the 19th. The question is, how and who would you pick to do a job on Fulham?
Of course the biggest issue is who does Harry play at left back and based on that we perhaps then have to consider the shape of the side. Drop Gareth Bale into s defensive role and you will probably see the team revert to a 4-3-3, with Parker playing alongside of Sandro and Modric in the middle, but will that again lose the team width or can we see Walker and Bale suddenly having total freedom to bomb up and down, safe in the knowledge of having two combative midfielders to cover their backsides?
Could we see Harry take a chance on playing a natural central player there, with perhaps William Gallas playing there or even Jake Livermore moving to an unaccustomed position? If that were the case, would we actually be better to play a natural full back such as Adam Smith, who may prefer the right, but has played at LB often and might also retain a solidity in the centre of defence in keeping what is currently our best CD pairing of Kaboul and Gallas.
Harry could always stick with the same 4-4-1-1 formation that he has played for the last three games and simply drop Bale back and ask Modric to play wide, or even go 4-4-2 and use VdV and Lennon wide and Adebayor and Defoe/Saha in a twin attack, but perhaps the only think we do know is that he will be expected to pick a side to win and ideally get a goal or two early to settle what is sure to be a nervous side, with everything to play for against a team that is in decent form, who know they cannot drop below their current 9th place, but if results go their way, they could finish in a very creditable 7th place, above Liverpool and Everton.
Fulham will feel pretty confident of getting something from this game. with five wins in the last seven games, and Martin Jol certainly wanting to prove a point, and gain three, whatever he might say, it will certainly a a tough game to have to secure a win. I suppose I would take this fixture over a trip to Goodison Park, but only just...
Read more: http://www.spurs.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=7512112#ixzz1uNnoxv00 (http://www.spurs.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=7512112#ixzz1uNnoxv00)
Craven Cottage to host Academy League final
Rovers' under 18s may be in FA Youth Cup final action this evening, but they also have the Academy League national final to look forward to this Saturday.
Terry McPhillips' side have two games left this season and both are finals, tonight's match against Chelsea at Ewood Park, following by the league final against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday at 2pm.
Following their successful league campaign in which the under 18s won their group, they progressed to the final courtesy of Saturday's 2-0 win over Newcastle United in the play-offs. Whilst this Saturday's opponents reached the final courtesy of a 2-1 win over Leicester City.
Supporters who wish to go to the match can pay on the gate, prices are £3 for Adults and £1 Concessions.
http://www.rovers.co.uk/page/AcademyNews/0,,10303~2764634,00.html? (http://www.rovers.co.uk/page/AcademyNews/0,,10303~2764634,00.html?)
Reserves squad for Fulham clash
ALBION have named a 16-man squad for this afternoon's behind-closed-doors Barclays Premier Reserve League clash with Fulham at the club's training ground (ko 2pm).
Keeper Marton Fulop and central-defender Craig Dawson (pictured) are included in David Oldfield's party, with Paul Downing, Sam Mantom, Scott Allan and Lateef Elford-Alliyu possible starters after returning from loan spells.
Fourth-placed Albion need to beat the Cottagers in their final game of the season to claim a third-place finish in the Southern Division.
The Baggies are unable to catch second-place Arsenal or champions Villa, but are guaranteed fourth spot regardless of this afternoon's result.
ALBION (from): Allan, Atkinson, Berahino, Brown, D Daniels, Dawson, Downing, Elford-Alliyu, Fulop, Hurst, Lewis, Mantom, Nabi, O'Sullivan, Roofe, Sawyers.
http://www.wba.co.uk/page/News/0,,10366~2764539,00.html? (http://www.wba.co.uk/page/News/0,,10366~2764539,00.html?)
Heerenveen pair Narsingh and Assaidi close to Fulham move, says agent
Martin Jol is reportedly eager to tie up a deal for the talented Eredevisie duo ahead of next season's Premier League campaign, amid doubts over Clint Dempsey's future
Herenveen pair Luciano Narsingh and Oussama Assaidi are close to sealing moves to Fulham, according to the players' representative.
he two wingers travelled to London on Monday to take a tour of the Premier League side's stadium and training facilities.
Mino Raiola, the players' agent, has admitted that no fee has yet been agreed between the two clubs, but contract negotiations are underway.
"We have given Mino Raiola and the players the space to talk," Heerenveen technical director Johan Hansma told De Telegraaf.
"Narsingh and Assaidi had to have a good feeling with a club. It doesn't make any sense if we reach an agreement with a club and the players won't want to go there. To succeed in a transfer there are three sides needed."
Fulham are bracing themselves for bids for their prized asset Clint Dempsey, and manager Martin Jol has identified the duo as potential replacements if the USA international leaves.
Assaidi and Narsingh both have just one year left on their contracts.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2012/05/09/3090704/heerenveen-pair-narsingh-and-assaidi-close-to-fulham-move? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2012/05/09/3090704/heerenveen-pair-narsingh-and-assaidi-close-to-fulham-move?)
Reserves Face WBA(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/lewington/LewingtonNews.jpg)
Fulham's Development Squad play their final match of the 2011/12 season on Wednesday afternoon when they travel to the Midlands to face West Bromwich Albion (KO 2pm).
Should Ray Lewington's charges conclude their excellent end-of-season form with a seventh match unbeaten, they will secure second place in the Barclays Premier Reserve League South.
Fulham's Reserve side have echoed the form of the First Team when it comes to recent results, having picked up 14 points of a possible 18 from their last six matches - the most recent of which was last week's impressive 3-2 victory over Southern Champions Aston Villa.
Our hosts this afternoon have their own agenda though as victory will see the Baggies leapfrog Fulham into third place in the league.
West Brom have already announced their squad for the game and it includes England under-21 defender Craig Dawson and Hungarian international goalkeeper Marton Fulop, both of whom have enjoyed run outs for the first team this campaign.
Fulham's Starting XI:
Neil Etheridge, Alex Brister, Courtney Harris, Josh Pritchard, Dan Burn, Mahrez Bettache, Ryan Williams, Alex Smith, Marcello Trotta, Tom Donegan, Charles Banya
Subs: Marcus Bettinelli, Buomesca Tue Na Bangna, Rob Maloney, Lasse Vigen Christensen
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/ReservesFaceBaggies.aspx?#ixzz1uNp31awt (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2012/May/ReservesFaceBaggies.aspx?#ixzz1uNp31awt)
Pog tells Russia to appoint Jol
Pavel Pogrebnyak says Russian football officials should consider Fulham boss Martin Jol when they appoint a new coach after Euro 2012.
Dick Advocaat will quit as Russia coach and has agreed to join PSV Eindhoven after the tournament this summer, leaving a vacancy that Pogrebnyak could be ideal for his club manager Jol.
The 28-year-old ex-VFB Stuttgart striker has blossomed under Jol since he arrived at Fulham in January and believes the appointment of another Dutchman could similarly revive Russia's fortunes at international level.
He said: "I agree with [Andriy] Arshavin, who is backing a foreign coach. For example Spalletti, who won the last two Russian championships with Zenit. Basically, I'm not against Spalletti taking over the [national] team, but I want to see our team coach Martin Jol - my coach at Fulham.
"In principle, I understand why Advocaat is going. He wanted to sign a new contract before the European Championships, and the RFU, in turn, wanted to wait until after the tournament."
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/Fulham/Pog-tells-Russia-to-appoint-Jol-1427053.html?#.T6qAsO2_wds (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/Fulham/Pog-tells-Russia-to-appoint-Jol-1427053.html?#.T6qAsO2_wds)
Jol eyes double Dutch swoop
Fulham showed Heerenveen duo Luciano Narsingh and Oussama Assaidi their facilities this week ahead of a planned summer double deal.
The two wingers travelled to London on Monday to take a tour of Craven Cottage and the club's Surrey training ground.
Fulham manager Martin Jol has identified the duo as potential replacements if USA international Clint Dempsey leaves in the summer.
The Cottagers have yet to agree terms with Heerenveen, but the Eredivisie club have given their permission for talks to get underway with the agent involved.
"We have given agent Mino Raiola and the players the space to talk," Heerenveen technical director Johan Hansma told De Telegraaf.
"Narsingh and Assaidi had to have a good feeling with a club. It doesn't make any sense if we reach an agreement with a club and the players won't want to go there. To succeed in a transfer there are three sides needed."
Assaidi, 23, and Narsingh, 21, both have just one year left on their contracts.
Narsingh has also caught the attention of PSV and Ajax, with Heerenveen having rejected a first offer from the Amsterdam giants.
http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2012/05/09/Jol-eyes-double-Dutch-swoop/gnid-141611/? (http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2012/05/09/Jol-eyes-double-Dutch-swoop/gnid-141611/?)
Premier League duo chasing Basel starlet
(http://www.squeakybumtime.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Frei.jpg)
After impressing in what was a breakout season for the player, Basel playmaker, Fabian Frei, appears to be courting interest from various European parties, two of which are Premier League outfits Liverpool and Fulham.
Frei – no relation to Swiss legend Alexander – has been a part of the Basel setup since 2004 when he entered as a youth prospect but it was only in 2011 that the midfielder managed to stake his claim on a regular first team spot.
The 23 year-old was farmed out on a two-year loan deal at St.Gallen where he managed to score 13 goals in 64 appearances, leading his parent club to keep him around upon his return.
Since then, Frei has emerged as a frequent starter in the Basel line-up, making forty appearances for the Swiss club this campaign, including eight starts in the side's Champions League tournament.
The attacking midfielder has scored nine goals this season and made six assists.
Xherdan Shaqiri has already sealed a summer move to Bayern Munich and Granit Xhaka is also looking likely to leave Basel, so with just a year left on his contract with the club, Frei may be tempted into jumping ship, too.
Should the 23 year-old leave this summer, Frei – who has made three appearances for the Switzerland national team – would be expected to command an asking price of around £6.5m.
With Maxi Rodriguez, Joe Cole and Dirk Kuyt all looking likely candidates for the Anfield exit, attacking reinforcements will surely be needed at Liverpool while Fulham are also set to lose some of their stars.
Martin Jol has already conceded that Clint Dempsey may leave the club in July should the right offer come in and Moussa Dembelé is also interesting various European sides.
http://www.squeakybumtime.com/premiership/6008/fulham-liverpool-fabian-frei-playmaker/ (http://www.squeakybumtime.com/premiership/6008/fulham-liverpool-fabian-frei-playmaker/)
Hodgson/England/Euro 2012
The big news, which I've heretofore ignored as it made my head spin, is Roy Hodgson's appointment as England manager. Never mind the Redknapp or speech impediment or press idiocy angles, what does this actually mean for England at Euro 2012?
I'm sure I've mentioned before how Roy's early career directly influenced Sven-Göran Eriksson so all things being equal I'd expect something similar here. Sven essentially used Roy methods to become what he was, so let's have a look at how he did at tournaments:
2002 – quite well, drawing with Sweden, beating the Argies, drawing with Nigeria, beating Denmark easily then losing unfortunately to Brazil.
At Euro 2004 England threw away a good situation against France, then beat Switzerland and Croatia. They lost on pens to Portugal.
At the 2006 World Cup England withdrew into themselves, beating Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago, drawing with Sweden then beating Ecuador in the knockouts. Then Portugal happened again.
In short, we beat the sorts of teams we'd expect to beat, managed the occasional good result (Argentina and Denmark in 2002, Croatia in 2004), but the odd disappointment (we were awful in 2006 and messed up 2004 despite what might have been England's best opportunity to really kick on).
Hodgson will know what he wants to do and will presumably be able to implement this reasonably effectively. I know we talk about him needing time to get his methods across but he's been a successful international manager before and can be again. One issue might be the Liverpool factor, in which star players found his approach slightly beneath them, but at this point what are they going to do? It's one thing sulking in club football; international football is different, especially at tournament level. Hodgson can be firm when he needs to be and I imagine he'll more or less get what he wants.
And you can see how that might be enough. The group is not soft but not hard, and I imagine we might be able to negotiate France, Sweden and Ukraine (although we might not! The margins are so fine), and then we get to the interesting part.
As Fulham manager Hodgson steered the club past better teams to reach the Europa League final. Sure there was luck along the way, but the success was built on the shape and determination that he'll surely be aiming for here. So if we do qualify in second and face Spain in the knockouts, well let's face it, Spain wouldn't be that happy to be facing a well drilled 4-4-2 would they? It's exactly the sort of setup that seems to be able to undo Spain/Barca type approaches. After that, anything's possible.
So while I am frightened for Roy and will try to avoid newspapers during the tournament, I do think he can be successful. What do you reckon?
And if you are interested in betting on the tournament, England are around 10/1, which seems about right to me. I'll see if I can find a spare fiver...
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2012/05/09/hodgsonenglandeuro-2012/ (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2012/05/09/hodgsonenglandeuro-2012/)
