RHYMING TEAM-MATES: JOHN ARNE RIISE AND SASCHA RIETHER (FULHAM)
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/PlayerProfileShots/RIISE1.ashx?w=250)(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/PlayerProfileShots/RIETHER1.ashx?w=250)
Continuing our celebration of teamsheet poetry, OTP calls in at Craven Cottage to acknowledge Fulham's pair of rhyming full-backs.
Read the teamsheet aloud and you'll sound like you've got an echo with a speed impediment.
Well done to Martin Jol for putting this gem together:
John Arne Riise
Sascha Riether
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Alex Check On Dalla Valle
Fulham forward in South Cheshire with a view to a loan move
Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis has this morning revealed that Fulham Forward Lauri Dalla Valle is training at Reaseheath with the view to a potential loan move.
Dalla Valle is a 21-year-old Finnish forward and had a spell at Internazionale as a youngster before a move to Liverpool. He then moved to Fulham in 2010 and has been a regular at reserve and U21 level since.
Crewe assistant manager Neil Baker watched Dalla Valle in a U21 game with Wolves earlier in the week, and the striker, who has represented Finland at youth level arrived in South Cheshire yesterday.
Davis is hopeful that the Fulham man could be what he is looking for: "We have got a lad in from Fulham. He is a Finnish U21 international who had loan spells with the likes of Bournemouth and Exeter last year.
"He is a pacey forward who is very lively. Fulham have allowed him to come and train with us for a few days. He will be play for us in a U21 game next week and we have got the opportunity to do something if he impresses."
http://www.crewealex.net/news/article/alex-check-on-dalla-valle-462088.aspx?pageView=full (http://www.crewealex.net/news/article/alex-check-on-dalla-valle-462088.aspx?pageView=full)
Do Fulham have a better strikeforce than Chelsea?
Whose strikers would you rather have? Fulham's selection, or Chelsea's?
On Twitter the other evening a message appeared on my timeline from a Fulham fan crowing that they have a better strikeforce than their West London rivals Chelsea.
Do they really? Let's take a look;
The first thing to note is that Chelsea effectively have just two strikers. Forget the dazzling array of attacking midfielders in support, we are talking about Fernando Torres and Daniel Sturridge.
Fulham meanwhile have four strikers, Dimitar Berbatov, Bryan Ruiz, Mladen Petric and Hugo Rodallega.
Now we are not suggesting for one minute Chelsea fans would swap Torres for Rodallega, but is Fulham's quartet more attractive than Chelsea's two?
Let's take a look at the statistics for the season so far;
Fernando Torres (Chelsea): 16 appearances, 6 goals, 3 assists.
Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea): 9 appearances, 2 goals, 1 assist
Total: 8 goals, 4 assists.
Dimitar Berbatov (Fulham): 5 appearances, 3 goals, 1 assist
Bryan Ruiz (Fulham): 6 appearances, 1 goal, 4 assists
Mladen Petric (Fulham): 5 appearances, 3 goals, 1 assists
Hugo Rodallega (Fulham): 9 appearances, 1 goals, 2 assists
Total: 8 goals, 8 assists.
So what does this show? It displays that Chelsea's two strikers have contributed as many goals between them as Fulham's four. Is this because they have better service, or simply because they have played more games? It also displays that Fulham's strikers are more creative. Perhaps this is because Martin Jol's team like to line up with two up front, as opposed to Chelsea playing a lone striker, meaning there is more chance for Fulham's attackers to play off one another, rather than simply being asked to finish off chances.
The other interesting aspect to note of this debate, is that both clubs could be active in the transfer window. Chelsea have been heavily linked with Falcao, and Fulham with Darren Bent. No prizes for guessing which way that will tip the debate.
We are guessing one thing though, and that is that neither Chelsea or Fulham fans would swap what they currently have for one another. Chelsea are riding high at the top of the Premier League, and Fulham are just one point below Arsenal in seventh and the prospects for both clubs look excellent.
Whose strikeforce would you rather have? Fulham's four goalscorers or Chelsea's two?
http://hereisthecity.com/2012/11/01/do-fulham-have-a-better-strikeforce-than-chelsea/? (http://hereisthecity.com/2012/11/01/do-fulham-have-a-better-strikeforce-than-chelsea/?)
CONCENTRATION COTTAGE
by Ben Blackmore, Shoot's Fulham blogger
It's been a fantastic start for The Cottagers in the Premier League. Martin Jol's men currently sit seventh in the table after seven games.
There has been little criticism surrounding the side this term, especially as many feared the departures of Moussa Dembele and Clint Dempsey would leave The Whites with a lack of cutting edge.
It's funnily enough been the complete opposite, with the Cottagers having scored 19 goals already.
However, when you look at the goals conceded, Jol's side could be a little bit higher in the table. Last minute goals against at both Reading and Southampton were avoidable and turned three points into one point on both occasions.
The West Londoners welcome Everton to Craven Cottage on Saturday and if they wish to take three points the defence needs to be solid against a good attacking side.
Everton are a strong team with plenty of options going forward with the likes of Nikita Jelavic, Kevin Mirallas & Marouane Fellaini in hot-form. The Merseysiders will bring a different kind of challenge to the defence, a real energetic frontline.
The Whites have kept three home clean sheets in their last four home games but will have to rectify mistakes in the backline that have crept in at away games.
Everton are undefeated in six Premier League games, and have only lost once all season, sitting in fifth, it's a hard game to call.
Fulham must improve from last year's 3-1 defeat at home to Everton and have no new injury worries ahead of the game, with Dimitar Berbatov expected to lead the line.
It's important for Fulham to get home points on the board as they face tricky away ties to Arsenal, Stoke, QPR, Chelsea and Liverpool all before the New Year.
Another important issue that Fulham need to address very soon is the contract of Brede Hangeland.
The big Norwegian defender has been at the heart of the defence for many years but his deal run's out next summer and would be allowed to speak to European clubs for free.
And with speculation surrounding a potential bid from Spurs, Jol needs to sit down and get him to sign an extension.
We must praise the manager who so far has done a fantastic job at the club. His tactical awareness has made Fulham a very technically gifted side this year.
My prediction for Saturday is a 1-1 draw, two very good attacking sides that will cancel each other out.
Elsewhere, young defender Matthew Briggs has joined Championship side Bristol City on a one-month loan deal.
Come on you Whites!
http://www.shoot.co.uk/news/latest_article/C48/premier_league/concentration_cottage/? (http://www.shoot.co.uk/news/latest_article/C48/premier_league/concentration_cottage/?)
Fulham v Everton
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/63839000/jpg/_63839109_berbatov.jpg)
TEAM NEWS
Fulham manager Martin Jol has no fresh injury worries after in-form defender Chris Baird was passed fit.
Simon Davies is still recovering from a hip operation, while Mickael Tavares is also out with a minor hamstring problem.
Everton's Steven Pienaar returns after serving a one-match ban, while David Moyes is optimistic that Kevin Mirallas will be fit after a minor ankle injury.
Darron Gibson is still not ready to return from a thigh problem.
MATCH PREVIEW
If they were measuring their results on a quarterly basis, as most companies do before reporting back to demanding shareholders, both Fulham and Everton could be excused a small grin of satisfaction.
But as each club prepares for its tenth Premier League match of a 38-game campaign, there will be no sign of that allowed. Managers Martin Jol and David Moyes are too wily and motivated to rest on their laurels.
Fulham, like Everton, are traditionally slow starters but both have begun the season strongly. It's created a feeling of having room to breathe - a concept which is normally alien in the pressure-cooker environment of the Premier League.
While Everton claimed the scalp of Manchester United in their first match, and have battled to high-octane draws with Newcastle and Liverpool, Fulham's campaign has perhaps been a little more leisurely so far. Their most notable result was a classy 3-0 win over early-season surprise package West Brom (though they did push both Manchester clubs close before eventually losing by a single goal).
Recent history shows us Fulham have a poor record against Everton, not least the last time they met when a dominant first-half display by the Blues at Goodison Park in April saw them kill the game as a contest by the break. In-form Nikica Jelavic had already grabbed two goals either side of a Marouane Fellaini header before the teams had a half-time cup of tea.
One thing is for sure, Fulham must be at their best against a belligerent Everton. Should a winner emerge by the River Thames, the pundits could be mulling the merits of that team as the real deal while simultaneously doubting the genuine strength-in-depth of the losers. But sharing the spoils would keep things ticking along nicely for both clubs.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Everton are unbeaten against Fulham in their past six matches in all competitions (W5, D1).
The clubs have met 56 times overall, with Everton winning 26 to Fulham's 18 victories.
Fulham
Fulham have earned 14 points from their opening nine matches of the season - their most at this stage of the season since 2003-04.
They have accrued 32 points from 14 home matches in 2012. Only Manchester City (41), Manchester United (34) and Newcastle (33) have more.
The west London side have lost 10 points from winning positions this season - only Southampton (11) have fared worse.
Martin Jol's side have scored first in six of their nine Premier League games this season, the joint-best record in the top flight (along with Chelsea, West Brom and Tottenham).
Chris Baird has now scored as many goals in his last two Premier League appearances as he did in his first 120.
Everton
Everton have suffered just one defeat in their last 18 league games. They have only failed to score in two of those matches.
The Toffees have picked up 16 points from their opening nine matches - their most at this stage of a season for six years.
They have scored their highest number of goals (17) at this stage of a top flight season since 1985-86.
Kevin Mirallas has committed more fouls (16) than anyone else yet to be shown a card in the Premier League this season.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20107627? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20107627?)
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
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Fulham v Everton
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard created a bit of a storm when he said Everton played like Stoke in the Merseyside derby but he was proved wrong when the statistics from that game came out, showing the Toffees played more accurate passes and crosses than the Reds, had more possession and committed fewer fouls.
Gerrard has backtracked since and I think those comments came out of frustration because Luis Suarez's late goal, which should have stood and would have won the game, was ruled out. I don't think Evertonians will let him forget what he has said though.
What Everton do have in common with Stoke is that they are really well drilled, well coached and well managed. They also have the belief at the moment they can do well against anybody and that is largely down to having David Moyes as manager.
They are just missing the extra bit of quality the really top teams in the Premier League have. Although their first team is very strong, their squad is quite thin. That's probably why they have drawn a few games of late, but I am backing them to get back to winning ways here.
Fulham will fancy their chances in this game because they have such a good record at Craven Cottage but their chances will be hit if Dimitar Berbatov is not fit - he played on against Reading last weekend despite having a suspected broken rib.
Berbatov will cause Everton problems if he does make this game because Cottagers boss Martin Jol is getting the best out of him. Berbatov is a player who needs a bit of loving and Jol know that, if you give it to him, then he plays for you.
But Fulham concede quite a lot of goals from set-pieces which is a worry against a team like Everton who, with Leighton Baines, are strong in that area.
Prediction: 1-2
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20153171 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20153171)
Fans profit as Tommy Guthrie takes Harrods approach at Fulham
Tommy Guthrie may not figure on Martin Jol's team sheet for the game between Fulham and Everton tomorrow but his presence at Craven Cottage is important.
Guthrie is Fulham's supporter relations manager and the 34‑year‑old has proved such a success he has been acclaimed as an Unsung Hero in the inaugural Visit Football Awards, an initiative between the Premier League and the national tourism board.
What Guthrie represents is a growing appreciation within the game of the role that good customer service must play if fans are to be attracted through the turnstiles in sufficient numbers during tough economic times. The Scot's citation read: "All customers want to feel looked after and Tommy does that.
"Going to visit people on match day who have contacted him through the week to see if they are enjoying the game; taking foreign supporters' clubs to a local pub in Fulham when they visit; organising fan forums in motorway service stations and city sight-seeing visits for fans at away games — he may see all this as his job but the level of detail from Tommy is something that should be applauded."
In truth, since Fulham attained Premier League status 12 seasons ago, the Cottage has always been an inviting place to visit thanks to it being in one of London's more leafy and affluent suburbs.
Then there is Fulham chairman Mohamed Fayed, the former owner of Harrods, who has sought to apply that elite store's high level of customer service to a football club.
Sarah Brookes, director of the communications department within which Guthrie works, said: "The chairman believes the fans are the lifeblood of the club and how we relate to the fans is very important.
"His philosophy is about putting the supporters first and making sure the supporters have a fantastic time when they come to the games."
Guthrie has certainly done that since starting work at the Cottage five years ago in the same week Roy Hodgson was appointed manager.
He said: "It is like if you go to a pub and it is a nice pub, well appointed and where the staff are pleasant. Then you will treat it with respect. You'll still have a few drinks but you'll enjoy yourself. But if you go to a pub where the service is bad and there are poor toilet facilities and the chairs are falling to pieces, there is more likely to be trouble."
The Premier League hold regular meetings so that supporter liaison managers can share experiences and ideas. Fulham have taken a lead by becoming one of the first clubs to offer their front-line staff the chance to gain a professional management diploma in customer service.
Guthrie said: "If you set the right tone and the environment is right, you'll get a positive atmosphere. That is what we have at our stadium. The more that other clubs emphasis those things and the more they celebrate them, the better the atmosphere at most games will be."
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fans-profit-as-tommy-guthrie-takes-harrods-approach-at-fulham-8277355.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fans-profit-as-tommy-guthrie-takes-harrods-approach-at-fulham-8277355.html)
"We need to win against Fulham" says Everton ace
Everton must beat Fulham when they travel to Craven Cottage tomorrow, according to Blues' youngster Bryan Oviedo.
The Toffees dropped out of the Premier League top four last weekend following the Merseyside derby as the club recorded its' third consecutive draw.
Bryan Oviedo, aged 22, believes that a win against Fulham will quickly restart Everton's bid for Champions League qualification glory and rekindle the form his team started the season with.
"It is very important for us to win this weekend because we what to stay in the top places. We need to win to keep close to the Champions League positions" said the Costa Rican international, who can play at left-back or left midfield.
"But we have a very good team, very strong defenders and good players in midfield and attack.
"The team has a strong mentality. We have come back from being 1-0 and 2-0 down in recent games and the team is very united."
Oviedo is yet to make a start in the Premier League and has kept out of the first team by Leighton Baines, Steven Pienaar and Kevin Mirallas, but is hoping to feature from the bench against Fulham.
The Toffees man is keen to play against international team-mate and Cottagers midfielder Bryan Ruiz.
"It is nice to play against Bryan," said the former FC Copenhagen player. "I talk with him a lot and we are the only two Costa Rican players in England.
"I spoke with him two days ago too, he told me Fulham need the three points but I told him it is the same for Everton. Maybe after the game we will swap shirts" he added.
http://www.footballfancast.com/premiership/everton/we-need-to-win-against-fulham-says-everton-ace (http://www.footballfancast.com/premiership/everton/we-need-to-win-against-fulham-says-everton-ace)
Fulham v Everton: Difficult to separate these two form sides
Hosts desperate to break Toffees' stranglehold over them but may have to settle for a point
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Everton are the team Fulham hate to play above all others having recorded just one win in the last nine meetings.
The Toffees have picked up a merciless seven victories in that spell and after an uncharacteristically strong start to the campaign will be eager to make the trip to Craven Cottage; they're priced at 8/5 to take the points back to Merseyside.
In three league and cup clashes last term, David Moyes' men recorded three victories after scoring nine goals and conceding just two.
Fulham are much improved this time around and having netted in every league game bar one this season, like Everton, will be confident of getting a positive result here.
Both teams to score looks a dead cert as the visitors can match the Cottagers admirable record in the final-third with only West Brom managing to keep them at bay so far this campaign. It's short at 8/13 but still very much worth a bet.
Over 2.5 goals looks tastier at 5/6 and, given the reams of attacking talent that will be taking to the field, this offers exceptional value.
Man City are the only side of four to beat Mark Schwarzer at the Cottage this season which is testament to how well they're doing under Martin Jol and are unbeaten in five of their last six games. Everton would undoubtedly take a draw bearing this record in mind, while the hosts surely wouldn't be too disappointed with this outcome either given their shortcomings against this opposition.
The draw is available at 23/10 and worth going into business with, while 2-2 looks good at 12/1.
Cumulatively, these sides have drawn five of their last six games, three of which have been by the aforementioned scoreline.
For added security, stick a few quid on a home win or draw with three or more goals converted at 3/2.
http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league/fulham-v-everton-difficult-to-separate-these-two-form-sides_122911.html (http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league/fulham-v-everton-difficult-to-separate-these-two-form-sides_122911.html)
Fulham duo passed fit for Everton clash
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Fulham's Dimitar Berbatov. Photo: Joe Giddens/EMPICS Sport
Dimitar Berbatov and Chris Baird are available for Fulham's game with Everton on Saturday.
The Bulgarian suffered a rib injury in the 3-3 draw with Reading, while Baird damaged his ankle celebrating a goal against the Royals.
Simon Davies and Mickael Tavares are both unavailable.
http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_duo_passed_fit_for_everton_clash_1_1679695 (http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_duo_passed_fit_for_everton_clash_1_1679695)
THE PREVIEW THE PREDICTION : FULHAM VS EVERTON
Fulham played out a thrilling 3-3 draw with Reading in their last league game with goals from Bryan Ruiz, a second goal in two games from Chris Baird, and a late goal from Dimitar Berbatov.
Ruiz's first goal of the Premier League season was just rewards having had 13 shots at goal with 10 on target, an impressive 77% on target. Berbatov had one of the best minutes per goal ratings in the Premier League last season, and is looking on good form again this season having scored three goals from 18 shots with 61% on target
John Arne Riise now has four assists so far this season, more than any other defender this season
Aaron Hughes made 23 interceptions in the game to contribute to a seesaw encounter, the second highest by a player in an individual game this season. Meanwhile Brede Hangeland made 19 interceptions, enough to go in at 8th for interceptions in a single game.
Everton took part in an entertaining and eventful Merseyside derby in their last fixture
Leon Osman and Steven Naismith were on target in the 2-2 draw, which clearly fired up Moyes' side as they covered 62.54 miles as a team, their second highest team total of the season
Osman's goal was his second of the season from 20 attempts at goal with 9 on target, while Naismith had not registered a single effort at goal until he fired in Everton's second
Marouane Fellaini enjoyed a competitive midfield battle with Steven Gerrard, which led the Liverpool skipper to brand Everton long ball specialists who played like Stoke
The stats, however, tell a different story as Everton's Steven Pienaar has completed exactly the same number of passes in his opponent's half as Gerrard with 281 – both lead their teams in this discipline.
Leighton Baines is ranked second at Everton for passes completed in the opposition half with 265 compared to Liverpool's second ranked player Joe Allen who has made 244.
Marouane Fellini and Leon Osman make it four Everton players in the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index's top 20 for passes completed in the opponent's half. Meanwhile Leighton Baines has pulled ahead in the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index for crosses delivered, having delivered 46 crosses compared to Gerrard's 42
Read more at http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/2012/11/premiership/the-preview-the-prediction-fulham-vs-everton?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29#yMxhCzyGJu6lXeCr.99 (http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/2012/11/premiership/the-preview-the-prediction-fulham-vs-everton?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29#yMxhCzyGJu6lXeCr.99)
Fulham face Middlesbrough in FA Youth Cup
by DAN on NOVEMBER 2, 2012
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/Placeholder/Players/Cauley%20Woodrow/WoodrowPlaceholder.ashx?w=350&h=250)
Fulham U18s striker Cauley Woodrow will face Middlesbrough in the FA Youth Cup
Fulham have been handed a tricky tie against Middlesbrough in the third round of the FA Youth Cup.
The Whites, who were knocked out by Burnley at the quarter-final stage last season having shocked Manchester City in the previous round, have been drawn at home in a tie that is scheduled to be played on December 15.
Middlesbrough, who have a proud history of bringing top talent through their Academy set-up, have real pedigree in the competition having reached successive finals in 2003 and 2004 and Dave Parnaby's side are sure to provide a real test for Fulham's youngsters.
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2012/11/fulham-face-middlesbrough-in-fa-youth-cup/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2012/11/fulham-face-middlesbrough-in-fa-youth-cup/?)
Jol's Everton Preview
Martin Jol anticipates a tough game against a strong Everton side when David Moyes' men visit Craven Cottage on Saturday afternoon (3pm).
Our Manager was full of praise for the Merseyside outfit – who currently sit just two places above us in the Barclays Premier League – but he believes that it will be a tight contest between two evenly matched sides.
"I think Everton are probably the best of the rest," Jol said in his pre-match press conference. "They don't have the same resources as some of the bigger clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur but they still finish high in the league.
"Last season we were like them and we had the same points but lost our final game against Spurs and they went four points ahead of us. That was a great statistic – to be near Everton – because I see them as the best of the rest and we were almost there so that was great to see.
"There's a good structure at that club; you don't see a lot of changes all the time, they buy one player almost every year and fit him in, and that shows their consistency.
"They are almost always in the top 10 and hopefully we can do the same; we have managed that in the last couple of years and hopefully we can do it in the future. They are certainly the benchmark for a lot of clubs."
Moyes has won plenty of plaudits for the way he has gone about building his squad, and our Manager admits Saturday's opponents can boast strength all over the park.
"I feel that they have a lot of team players," the Dutchman said. "They have one who I have always liked; Marouane Fellaini. Even when he was playing in Belgium he was always a star and he's an unbelievable player.
"Then of course there's Steven Pienaar who's an individual who can hurt you. They've got Nikica Jelavic who came from Scotland and he was probably the player they needed, so I feel they are a good team, full of team players.
"At the back they've got Sylvain Distin, who's an awesome player, and Phil Jagielka who is maybe a bit underestimated, but he's an international player.
"Leighton Baines is, I think, recognised as the best full-back in Britain, so I like Everton. They've got another side, though, as they are tough and physical, but they can play so it's a great combination."
After picking up knocks in our last outing against Reading, there were concerns over the fitness of Chris Baird and Dimitar Berbatov, but Jol was quick to quash the notion that they wouldn't be fit for the weekend.
"Berbatov is fine," he said. "There was not a lot wrong with Baird either because he trained with us on the Tuesday. He injured himself after celebrating his goal last week.
"We've still got Simon Davies out after his operation on his hip and Mickael Tavares is out with the same sort of problem, although his is a minor problem. He's got a minor irritation because of it on his hamstring but those are our only injuries at the moment."
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2012/november/02/jols-everton-preview? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2012/november/02/jols-everton-preview?)
Everton Must Win at Fulham to Maintain European Dream
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Damien Duff battles Steven Pienaar for the ball last season
Alex Livesey/Getty Images
David Moyes and his fascinating assembly of Everton bargain buys, underrated superstars, and respected veterans blew up the race for European football with their early season form.
For the first time in recent memory, the Blues started a Premier League campaign positively, managing an opening-day triumph over title-contenders Manchester United, along with away victories at Swansea City and Aston Villa.
Nevertheless, they slowly fizzled, and while they have only lost to West Bromwich Albion, the club have drawn their last three matches and fallen to fifth in the table.
Usually the neutral's favorite side, Everton traditionally punch above their weight and claim victories over more financially-blessed clubs such as Manchester City, Chelsea, and Man United.
However, their lack of a serious threat to the Champion's League- and title-chasers, due to their meager finances, makes them a fun side to watch and root for.
Despite falling outside of the prized places last week, the 2012-13 season still has the potential to be one in which fortunes finally shift for the Merseysiders. Remaining so close to the Big Four prior to their typical mid-season surge holds the promise that Europe is attainable for the first time in three seasons.
And it shakes up the traditional power structure, allowing supporters of the club to potentially hope for the often unattainable cash cow that is the Champions League.
Crucial to Everton's pursuit of continental football will be how they perform following the 2-2 draw at home to Liverpool on Sunday.
The club now faces a tricky away trip to in-form Fulham, but then have two arguably easy matches before they meet Arsenal on November 28. Victories against low- and mid-table clubs will be essential for David Moyes' men, as they transition into trickier contests against the top sides in the league in December.
Fulham may have drawn 3-3 in a winnable match against Reading over the weekend, but they are the third highest-scoring team in the EPL, and have the potential to unnerve any defense with their striking combinations of Dimitar Berbatov, Mladen Petric, Hugo Rodallega and Bryan Ruiz.
Each attacker brings their own style to the table, and Berbatov especially can create a goal out of nothing. Coupled with a strong defense lead by veteran centre-back Brede Hangeland, the Londoners could be hard to break down and contain for Everton, as inferred by the obvious weaknesses in their derby match against Liverpool.
Still, the Toffees have all of the qualities of a top-tier side.
Tim Howard is one of the top goalkeepers in Europe, Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines two of the best English defenders in the EPL, Steven Pienaar and Kevin Mirallas are unpredictable and tricky wide-men capable of both assisting and scoring goals, and Marouane Fellaini and Nikica Jelavic are the type of aerial threats that no defense wants to engage.
Moyes' men may let in too many goals at times, but they can also score in bunches, as they showed last season when they defeated the Cottagers 3-1 away and 4-0 at Goodison Park.
So far, Fulham have only lost once at home to defending champions Manchester City. Yet Everton will need to claim a victory if they are to truly challenge for Europe.
Without argument, it will be a difficult match. Martin Jol has the hosts playing enjoyable football and is successfully integrating new signings into the starting 11 to provide an edge for Fulham.
The Blues are also renowned for wilting under pressure, even though they can spring massive surprises if Baines, Pienaar, and especially Fellaini are clicking together.
In the end, the scoreline could come down simply to which individual steps up to the plate, and not which team performs better as a core.
It may not yet be make-or-break for Everton. However, improvement and opportunity for the club as this long season progresses will certainly be judged based on what they can muster at Craven Cottage on Saturday.
Toffees supporters will surely be holding their breath, as their European dream seems a distant, but still plausible possibility this season.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1393276-everton-must-return-to-winning-ways-against-fulham-to-maintain-european-dream? (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1393276-everton-must-return-to-winning-ways-against-fulham-to-maintain-european-dream?)
Jol: Everton 'are the best of the rest'
by DAN on NOVEMBER 2, 2012
(http://hammyend.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/jelavic-300x215.jpg)
Martin Jol is under no illusions as to the size of the task facing his Fulham side tomorrow describing opponents Everton as 'the best of the rest' outside the Premier League's top four.
David Moyes' side have enjoyed an excellent start to the current campaign and currently sit fifth in the table after last weekend's enthralling Merseyside derby draw. Jol admits he's hoping to improve on last season's record – after Everton won all three fixtures between the sides last term – but was full of praise for the talent within the Toffees' squad despite the meagre resources Moyes has at his disposal.
I think Everton are probably the best of the rest. They don't have the same resources as some of the bigger clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur but they still finish high in the league. Last season we were like them and we had the same points but lost our final game against Spurs and they went four points ahead of us. That was a great statistic – to be near Everton – because I see them as the best of the rest and we were almost there so that was great to see.
There's a good structure at that club; you don't see a lot of changes all the time, they buy one player almost every year and fit him in, and that shows their consistency. They are almost always in the top 10 and hopefully we can do the same; we have managed that in the last couple of years and hopefully we can do it in the future. They are certainly the benchmark for a lot of clubs.
I feel that they have a lot of team players. They have one who I have always liked; Marouane Fellaini. Even when he was playing in Belgium he was always a star and he's an unbelievable player. Then of course there's Steven Pienaar who's an individual who can hurt you. They've got Nikica Jelavic who came from Scotland and he was probably the player they needed, so I feel they are a good team, full of team players.
At the back they've got Sylvain Distin, who's an awesome player, and Phil Jagielka who is maybe a bit underestimated, but he's an international player. Leighton Baines is, I think, recognised as the best full-back in Britain, so I like Everton. They've got another side, though, as they are tough and physical, but they can play so it's a great combination.
Moyes will likely to be able to call upon summer signing Kevin Mirallas after the Belgian forward made encouraging progress in fighting off the ankle injury he sustained during the derby on Sunday, whilst South African midfielder Pienaar returns from his suspension, which could see Steven Naismith relegated to the substitutes' bench. Former Manchester United midfielder Darron Gibson is reportedly not fit enough to return from a thigh problem that has plagued him since the start of September.
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2012/11/jol-everton-are-the-best-of-the-rest/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2012/11/jol-everton-are-the-best-of-the-rest/?)
Baird fit for Fulham despite injury
Former Saints star Chris Baird looks like being fit for Fulham's Premier League game this weekend despite a freak injury.
The Northern Ireland international injured himself when he slipped into advertising hoardings as he celebrated scoring a header in the 3-3 draw against Reading last weekend.
It was Baird's second goal in consecutive games, having previously scored the winner against Aston Villa – doubling the amount of Premier League goals the player had scored for Fulham in his first 113 games!
http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/saints/news/10024074._/ (http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/saints/news/10024074._/)
Fulham v Everton: Squad sheets
David Moyes considers Fulham to be a team who will push for a Europa League place and a win would see them leapfrog Everton, who have drawn their last three. "If we are going to hang on to the coat-tails of teams above us we are going to have to keep winning and playing well," said the Everton manager, who has Steven Pienaar back after a ban and is hopeful Kevin Mirallas will make it after limping off in the derby. Dimitar Berbatov's rib is a concern for Fulham, although he had a jab in the draw at Reading and got on with it. Mark Tallentire
Venue Craven Cottage, Saturday 3pm
Tickets Sold out
Last season Fulham 1 Everton 3
Referee Neil Swarbrick
This season's matches 3 Y8, R0, 2.67 cards per game
Odds Fulham 13-8 Everton 6-4 Draw 9-4
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Sport/Pix/pictures/2012/11/2/1351868277218/Fulham-v-Everton-001.jpg)
Fulham v Everton: Probable starters in bold, contenders in light
Photograph: Graphic
Fulham
Subs from Somogyi, Stockdale, Kelly, Senderos, Sidwell, Kasami, Frei, Petric, Karagounis, Ruiz, Briggs, Dejagah, Kacaniklic, Na Banga, Smith
Doubtful Berbatov (rib)
Injured Davies (hip, Jan)
Suspended None
Form guide DWDLWW
Disciplinary record Y6 R0
Leading scorers Berbatov, Duff, Petric 3
Everton
Subs from Mucha, Heitinga, Naismith, Hibbert, Anichebe, Francisco, Gueye, Vellios, Duffy, McAleny, Oviedo
Doubtful Mirallas (ankle)
Injured Gibson (thigh, 10 Nov)
Suspended None
Form guide DDDWWD
Disciplinary record Y19 R1
Leading scorer Jelavic 4
Match pointers
• Everton have won seven and lost only one of their last nine matches against Fulham in all competitions
• Fulham's home goal difference of plus eight is the best in the division
• Everton have had 99 shots in league games away from home this season, at least 17 more than any other top-flight team in England, France, Italy, Germany or Spain
• Fulham have scored a total of 499 goals in their Premier League history
• Everton have hit the post or bar more times (eight) than any other side in the division
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/nov/02/fulham-everton-squad-sheets? (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/nov/02/fulham-everton-squad-sheets?)
Fulham boss Martin Jol aims to emulate opponents Everton
(http://e2.365dm.com/12/08/660x350/jol_2813742.jpg)
Martin Jol: Free-scoring side
Fulham will be happy with their season if they finish near Saturday's opponents Everton, according to Martin Jol.
David Moyes' side have become the benchmark for the Premier League's less wealthy following successive seventh-placed finishes, and an unusually strong start to the season has heightened ambition at Goodison Park.
Fulham ended last season within four points of the Merseysiders and, ahead of the weekend game at Craven Cottage, Jol said: "That was a great statistic to be near Everton because I see them as being the best of the rest.
"We always admire Everton. Everton are an example for so many clubs. Over the last 10 or 12 years most of the time they were in the top seven. Outside the recognised top clubs I think they are the best."
Jol's side have scored 19 times already in the league despite losing Clint Dempsey and Mousa Dembele in the summer.
He said: "We have scored as many goals so far as normally we would until February or April, so that is good. We lost our top scorers but up until now it is more productive than it was before."
Everton are no slouches either when it comes to goals, having scored 17 in their nine games so far this season.
Jol puts the Everton success down to the consistency of manager Moyes, who has assembled a squad of quality players.
Jol said: "If you are at a club like Everton for many years then you must be doing something. There is a good structure to the club, they buy one player every year and fit him in. There is a consistency.
"We have done that in the last couple of years and hopefully we can do that in the future. They are the benchmark for a lot of clubs."
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11681/8219786? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11681/8219786?)
Premier League: Fulham v Everton match preview
A look ahead to this weekend's Premier League fixture at Craven Cottage
Everton travel to Fulham as David Moyes' side aim to continue their fine start to the season. The Toffees currently sit in fifth having lost just once in the league this term.
But three straight draws – including Sunday's 2-2 result at home to Merseyside rivals Liverpool – has seen them fall behind the top three.
Martin Jol's Fulham have shown they know how to find the net, but the problem has been at the other end, highlighted by their 3-3 draw against Reading last time out.
If the West Londoners are unable to improve in defence, Everton's attacking weapons are sure to punish them as Croatian striker Nikica Jelavic (four goals) and Belgian Marouane Fellaini (three) are a constant threat, while Moyes will regain Steven Pienaar from suspension.
KICK-OFF: Saturday, 3pm
PAST THREE MEETINGS...
Everton 4 (Jelavic 2, Fellaini, Cahill) Fulham 0, Premier League, April 2012
Everton 2 (Stracqualursi, Fellaini) Fulham 1 (Murphy), FA Cup, January 2012
Fulham 1 (Ruiz) Everton 3 (Drenthe, Rodwell, Saha), Premier League, October 2011
STATS...
Fulham's impressive home record is well documented as they've picked up 32 points from a possible 42 in front of their own supporters.
However, Everton are resilient and have lost just once on their last four visits to Craven Cottage.
Everton have become somewhat of a bogey side for Fulham as the Cottagers haven't beaten them in their last nine meetings.
ODDS...
Fulham to win: 2.62
Everton to win: 2.55
Draw: 3.25
TV: Highlights on BBC1 at 10.20pm
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/premier-league-fulham-v-everton-match-preview-8277720.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/premier-league-fulham-v-everton-match-preview-8277720.html)
Fulham vs Everton
Without a win in three games now — although still on a really impressive run of just one Premier League defeat since March — Everton are back in the Capital with a visit to Craven Cottage to face a Fulham side who lie just two points behind the Blues.
Controversial draws against Wigan, QPR and Liverpool have seen David Moyes's side slip away from the three leading clubs but a run of four fixtures against teams lower in the table offers an opportunity to get back to winning ways.
Having gone decades without winning on Fulham's home turf, the Blues under Moyes have won twice there in their last four visits, the second of which (incidentally, Everton's only win in London in their last 13 trips) came last season in a 3-1 victory... albeit one secured with goals by three players who are no longer with the club.
Of course, Royston Drenthe and Louis Saha have been amply replaced by Kevin Mirallas and Nikica Jelavic respectively, but central midfield has been a problematic area for Everton this season since Darron GIbson succumbed to a thigh tendon injury that has kept him sidelined for two months now.
The pace of the Irishman's recovery has been painfully slow and he won't be ready to face the Cottagers this weekend; Moyes admitted that the injury was worse than at first feared but the player is on the mend.
It leaves the manager with familiar options in the middle. Phil Neville and Leon Osman have been hit and miss together in the interim, with extra pressure seemingly put on the defence when the makeshift pairing hasn't been functioning as hoped.
Going forward, though, the Blues are still scoring goals, having only been blanked on one occasion so far this season and averaging two goals a game in their last four outings. Mirallas is a doubt, however, for this weekend after suffering heavy bruising to his foot when Luis Suarez's unpunished stamp took him out of the derby at the half-way stage last Sunday. The Belgian was electric in the first half against Liverpool but he has only a chance of playing at Fulham according to David Moyes.
Steven Pienaar is back, however, after missing the derby through suspension, and that would likely mean a like-for-like swap with Mirallas on the left flank and Steven Naismith keeping his place on the right.
Elsewhere in the side, Tony Hibbert is fit again, but it remains to be seen whether he will be preferred to Seamus Coleman who has been settling back into his original right back role in the veteran's absence.
This is never an easy game for Everton who never really look comfortable in the smaller confines of the more compact grounds like Craven Cottage and Loftus Road. Fulham certainly have their tails up under Martin Jol and will be buouyed by the fact that danger man Dimitar Berbatov has been passed fit.
Jol's side would leapfrog the Blues in the table with victory but a win for Everton would get their hopes of a Champions League-qualifying finish on track.
KO: 3pm, Saturday 3 November 2012
Referee: Neil Swarbrick
http://www.toffeeweb.com/season/12-13/news/22855.html? (http://www.toffeeweb.com/season/12-13/news/22855.html?)
FULHAM v Everton: Baird fully fit following collision with advertising hoarding
Fulham defender Chris Baird is fit for Saturday's visit of Everton in the Barclays Premier League.
The Northern Ireland international injured himself when he slipped into advertising hoardings as he celebrated scoring a header in the 3-3 draw against Reading last weekend.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/11/02/article-2226942-15B6C1F8000005DC-364_468x308.jpg)
Back in the frame: Chris Baird (right) has regained his fitness
Midfielder Simon Davies is still recovering from a hip operation and French midfielder Mickael Tavares is out with a minor hamstring problem.
Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Riether, Hughes, Hangeland, Riise, Duff, Baird, Diarra, Richardson, Rodallega, Berbatov, Stockdale, Senderos, Sidwell, Petric, Ruiz, Karagounis, Dejagah, Kasami.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2226942/FULHAM-v-Everton-Chris-Baird-fully-fit-following-collision-advertising-hoarding.html#ixzz2B8iV7G4V (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2226942/FULHAM-v-Everton-Chris-Baird-fully-fit-following-collision-advertising-hoarding.html#ixzz2B8iV7G4V)
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Fulham boss admits difficulty in keeping stars happy
(http://www.london24.com/polopoly_fs/spt_wk38_12_dimitar_berbatov_2_1_1528808!image/3612806922.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_490/3612806922.jpg)
Fulham's Dimitar Berbatov. Photo: Joe Giddens/EMPICS Sport
Fulham manager Martin Jol admits his biggest problem is keeping a squad happy with so many striking options.
The Whites may have lost the firepower of Clint Dempsey and Mousa Dembele in the summer transfer window but Dimitar Berbatov, Brian Ruiz, Hugo Rodallega and Mladen Petric have given Jol a headache when it comes to selecting a striking partnership.
The Dutchman said: "We have scored as many goals so far as normally we would until February or April, so that is good.
"We lost our top scorers but up until now it is more productive than it was before."
Asked if it was a challenge keeping them all happy, he said: "It is difficult but that is my job. I see them as luxury problems with all these players up front."
http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_boss_admits_difficulty_in_keeping_stars_happy_1_1680055 (http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/fulham_boss_admits_difficulty_in_keeping_stars_happy_1_1680055)
Everton at Fulham: Match Preview
This weekend Everton travel to the capital to take on Fulham, determined to end their streak of three consecutive draws.
The last time Everton went to London they played terribly and escaped bottom-club Queens Park Rangers with a point. A similar performance this around at European contenders Fulham will not reap the same returns. Three consecutive draws against teams in the bottom half of the table mean Everton have lost most of the momentum from their hot start to the season and nothing less than a win will put that charge back on track. The Toffees have struggled without Darron Gibson, who will miss out once again this week, and David Moyes must be at his wits end wondering how he can fill that position.
Fulham are traditional slow starters in the Everton mould, but this season both teams have come flying out the gates. Martin Jol has built a strong side with lots of attacking prowess, but has recently shown a penchant for conceding late goals, and you can be sure David Moyes will be reviewing the film to see where the weaknesses lie. Fulham have been strong at home though with a couple of big wins, and a close loss to defending champions Manchester City just over a month ago.
Team News -
Early news is that Kevin Mirallas is expected to be fit and should slot into his right wing spot, while Steven Pienaar returns from suspension and goes back to left wing. If Mirallas does not start than either Seamus Coleman could go out to the wing and Tony Hibbert return to right back, or else Steven Naismith could get a run at Mirallas spot and either Coleman or Hibbert get the start in defence.
Jol has a few injury worries, with only Simon Davies out long term. Striker Dimitar Berbatov has a rib injury and might play, while key link man Chris Baird is returning to fitness after a layoff and is also in contention to start.
Keys To The Game -
For the Blues, keeping it simple has been the route to success this year. Patience in bringing the ball out of defence, the short passing game in midfield to open up space, incisive runs behind the backline down the wings, and a cross to the middle to be met by Nikica Jelavic, Marouane Fellaini and co. However, the vilified 'Osville' combo platter of Phil Neville and Leon Osman have struggled with holding and distributing the ball. It could come down once again to how well the two play, and if Fellaini dropping back in support does not blunt the attack with Jelavic isolated.
Fulham on the other hand have not adequately replaced playmaker Moussa Dembele, and this has shown itself towards the latter stages of games especially with opponents swarming the midfield. Their 4-4-1-1 is quite direct, with Berbatov at the top and veteran Hugo Rodallega behind him. Brian Ruiz has struggled to make an impression in England so far, but could get a look in if Berbatov cannot go. Another veteran Damien Duff has replaced Mladen Petric on the right wing while Mahamadou Diarra has been better than Steven Sidwell in the middle of the park. A strong start and an early goal or two should ensure the three points, as they have been less prone to folding at home.
Match Facts -
Everton have won seven and only lost once in their last nine games against Fulham in all competitions.
The Toffees have one loss in their last eighteen Premier League games, failing to score just twice.
Fulham have scored ten goals at home this season, only surpassed by the top three clubs.
The Cottagers have squandered ten points from winning positions this season, second worst in the League.
Only four Costa Rican players have played in the Premier League, and two might play on Saturday - Bryan Oviedo and Brian Ruiz.
http://www.royalbluemersey.com/2012/11/2/3590528/everton-at-fulham-match-preview? (http://www.royalbluemersey.com/2012/11/2/3590528/everton-at-fulham-match-preview?)
Fulham vs Everton Preview: Team News, Predicted Line-Ups, Squad Sheets, Match Facts And More!
(http://cdn.caughtoffside.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Berbatov-Fulham.jpg)
Everton and Fulham meet this weekend at Craven Cottage, with this preview courtesy of fanatix.
Everton visit Fulham this weekend in the Barclays Premier League, aware that they need to get back to winning ways after a run of draws.
The Toffees are challenging for the European places, with UEFA Champions League spots the dream and UEFA Europa League the more likely result, and may well view Fulham as rivals for the same goal.
Both teams will therefore view this match as an opportunity to edge closer to that target at the expense of the competition.
Venue Craven Cottage, Saturday 3pm
Tickets Sold out
Last season Fulham 1 Everton 3
Referee Neil Swarbrick
This season's matches 3 Y8, R0, 2.67 cards per game
Odds Fulham 13-8 Everton 6-4 Draw 9-4
Subs from Somogyi, Stockdale, Kelly, Senderos, Sidwell, Kasami, Frei, Petric, Karagounis, Ruiz, Briggs, Dejagah, Kacaniklic, Na Banga, Smith
Doubtful Berbatov (rib)
Injured Davies (hip, Jan)
Suspended None
Form guide DWDLWW
Disciplinary record Y6 R0
Leading scorers Berbatov, Duff, Petric 3
Everton
Subs from Heitinga, Naismith, Hibbert, Anichebe, Mucha, Franciso, Gueye, Vellios, Duffy, McAleny, Oviedo
Doubtful Mirallas (ankle)
Injured Gibson (thigh, 10 Nov)
Suspended None
Form guide DDDWWD
Disciplinary record Y19 R1
Leading scorer Jelavic 4
CaughtOffside predicted line-ups:
Fulham
Head-to-head
Everton are unbeaten against Fulham in their past six matches in all competitions (W5, D1).
The clubs have met 56 times overall, with Everton winning 26 to Fulham's 18 victories.
Fulham
Fulham have earned 14 points from their opening nine matches of the season – their most at this stage of the season since 2003-04.
They have accrued 32 points from 14 home matches in 2012. Only Manchester City (41), Manchester United (34) and Newcastle (33) have more.
The west London side have lost 10 points from winning positions this season – only Southampton (11) have fared worse.
Martin Jol's side have scored first in six of their nine Premier League games this season, the joint-best record in the top flight (along with Chelsea, West Brom and Tottenham).
Chris Baird has now scored as many goals in his last two Premier League appearances as he did in his first 120.
Everton
Everton have suffered just one defeat in their last 18 league games. They have only failed to score in two of those matches.
The Toffees have picked up 16 points from their opening nine matches – their most at this stage of a season for six years.
They have scored their highest number of goals (17) at this stage of a top flight season since 1985-86.
Kevin Mirallas has committed more fouls (16) than anyone else yet to be shown a card in the Premier League this season.
CaughtOffside prediction: Fulham 2-1 Everton. The Cottagers are strong at home, and in Berbatov have a forward capable of producing the magic to make the difference.
http://www.caughtoffside.com/2012/11/02/fulham-vs-everton-preview-team-news-predicted-line-ups-squad-sheets-match-facts-and-more/? (http://www.caughtoffside.com/2012/11/02/fulham-vs-everton-preview-team-news-predicted-line-ups-squad-sheets-match-facts-and-more/?)
Saha: I Loved It At Everton
Louis Saha has spoken of his time at Goodison Park as the Blues prepare to meet another of the striker's former sides, Fulham, on Saturday.
The Frenchman left Goodison Park in January 2012 after leading the line in attack for Everton since 2008. Now at Sunderland, Saha reflects fondly on his three-and-a-half years on Merseyside.
He told fulhamfc.com: "I loved my time at Everton and I scored a decent amount of goals, which for a striker is important.
"The spirit at Everton was a lot like what we had at Fulham all those years before; it's a very warm, family-orientated club. It has a lot of history, and they have worked hard to get where they have."
And the praise from the former Manchester United man doesn't end there. Ahead of the weekend's action, Saha believes Saturday's fixture at Craven Cottage is a contest between two of the Premier League's most exciting teams.
Knowing the top-flight all too well from a 14-year career in English football, the 32-year old admits the two sides have impressed with free-flowing football this term.
"Everton look really good again this season, and they've certainly impressed," said Saha. "They have a great manager, and some very talented players, not to mention a lot of character – for me, come the end of the season they could well be pushing for a place in the top four.
"I think Fulham can use Everton as an example of what is possible. There are quite a few similarities between the two clubs and Fulham are in form too. They're scoring a lot of goals and Martin Jol has them playing some really good football.
"It will be interesting to see how they get on, because like Everton, they're one of the clubs that is making the Premier League even more exciting right now."
Saha returns to Merseyside when the Blues welcome Sunderland to Goodison Park on 10 November.
http://www.evertonfc.com/news/archive/2012/11/02/saha-i-loved-it-at-everton (http://www.evertonfc.com/news/archive/2012/11/02/saha-i-loved-it-at-everton)
The Cottage fortress faces latest test - Preview - Everton (h)
(http://cdn3.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/2528397/143521262.0_standard_500.0.jpg)
Despite a brilliant home record, Fulham face a huge test when David Moyes' side visit on Saturday.
Martin Jol says they're the 'best of the rest' - whether that be a compliment or not. What is more certain, though, regardless of home comfort, is that Everton travel to Craven Cottage in fine form and even with only three points dropped so far in SW6, taking anything on Saturday will be no mean feat.
Normally a side that struggle in the season's dawn, David Moyes' side have sprung into life and, Tottenham aside, look like the only team truly threatening the customary top three monopoly. It begs the questions as to whether they can sustain any push up the league into the campaign's latter reaches but, if previous years are anything to go by, Everton will only get better.
Why the sudden upturn? Well, for once, they've had a summer that didn't consist of mainly player departures and Moyes himself admitted to changing their pre-season setup. They've added players of quality too - namely Kevin Miralas and, on a permanent basis, the powerful Steven Pienaar.
This retention of their core players has meant a consistent start to the season - they've beaten Manchester United and have strolled past the likes of Swansea and Southampton. But, more recently, there has been a minor cause for concern, having drawn three on the trot, exiting October with only three points to boast of.
Fulham, meanwhile, are pressing on nicely behind Everton in the table, 2 points behind and 2 spaces behind, occupying 7th place.
Upon last meeting Everton at the Cottage, Bryan Ruiz scored a sublime chip that proved invaluable and defunct, thanks to two, late Everton goals giving the away side a 3-1 victory. In the reverse tie we lost 4-0, and also lost in the FA Cup - making for particularly drab reading.
Darron Gibson will miss the tie and Kevin Mirallas is a doubt for Everton while, for Fulham, Dimitar Berbatov is expected to be passed fit after a rib injury.
Score prediction: Fulham 1-1 Everton
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2012/11/2/3591278/cottage-fortress-latest-test-moyes-everton-h? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2012/11/2/3591278/cottage-fortress-latest-test-moyes-everton-h?)
Gibson to miss out against Fulham
Darron Gibson will again be missing from the Everton squad, that faces Fulham tomorrow, as he recovers from his thigh injury.
The 24 year old has not featured for the Blues since pulling up in the 2-o defeat to West Bromwich Albion almost two months ago, and David Moyes told the press that it was the tendon in Gibson's right thigh that was troubling the Irishman. Moyes also stated that Kevin Mirallas would be given as much time as possible to feature against the Londoners after being withdrawn at half time in last weekend's derby draw against Liverpool.
"Darron's got a tendon problem at the top of his thigh which has been worse than we thought and also making [his absence] longer than we thought," he said. "But obviously he's getting better."
Of Mirallas, Moyes added: "Hopefully he's got a chance. His ankle's still sore but it's not quite as bad as we thought.
"He's not quite there yet but hopefully he'll have a chance for the game."
Read more: http://www.nsno.co.uk/everton-news/2012/11/gibson-to-miss-out-against-fulham/#ixzz2B8lojPAy (http://www.nsno.co.uk/everton-news/2012/11/gibson-to-miss-out-against-fulham/#ixzz2B8lojPAy)
Martin Jol says Fulham would be prepared to spend big on the right player
(http://e1.365dm.com/12/08/660x350/150936762_2819511.jpg)
Kevin Mirallas: Ended up making a summer switch to Everton
Martin Jol admits he was priced out of a move for Kevin Mirallas, but says Fulham would dig deep for the right player.
The Cottagers were among those to express an interest in Belgium international Miralles over the summer, but were put off by the demands of Greek outfit Olympiakos.
The highly-rated forward did end up in England, at Everton, but Jol has no regrets at having refused to splash the cash.
The Dutchman, who was able to complete a number of shrewd acquisitions, said: "We could have had him (Mirallas) but he was six or seven million. It is not like (Mladen) Petric on a free or (Hugo) Rodallega on a free or (Dimitar) Berbatov.
"Mirallas was not a bargain but they (Everton) did well to pick him up. Mirallas was top scorer in Greece up front where he played on the left and the right and he is doing well.
"Everton don't buy five or six players. They buy one or two each year and then try to fit them in. That is their strength.
"They don't have to chop and change all the time. But you can't say no-one knew about Mirallas. He was playing in this fantastic Belgium team, with all these great players such as (Mousa) Dembele and (Thomas) Vermaelen.
"I think they will be unbelievable in the future and he (Mirallas) is playing in that team."
Bargains
Jol would, however, have no problem asking his board for backing if the right target became available.
Ahead of a weekend meeting with Everton, Jol added: "Of course we would do it if it was necessary.
"I always try to find the real bargains and I think we did that. With (Nikica) Jelavic Everton probably did that."
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11671/8220656? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11671/8220656?)
To Friends of Ashwater(A brief reminder about the book content is at the bottom of this mail)
We are sorry that we ran out of 'spare' Riverbank 3 copies at the Aston Villa game and that supporters went away disappointed. All spare copies went in fifteen minutes (by 2pm). We will bring up a few more spare copies tomorrow. Again though, first come, first served. Collection will save you £5.
For those collecting their Riverbank 3 books tomorrow outside the Fulham ground before the Everton game, we will be against the wall at the Hammersmith end (opposite side of the road to the ground) next door to David Lloyd and the TOOFIF crew. Traffic permitting we will be there by 1.45 and will remain at our posts until 2.45. Please try if possible not to leave it until the last minute. (If you are unsure about your collection, please e-mail us asap).
There are less than 200 copies of Riverbank 3 left now.
Also tomorrow, we will be also be bringing up several copies of the first of the Ashwater 2013 Wall Calendars. Great value at £5.95
The Ashwater 2013 desk diaries are due in early next week, (very busy printers!) and we will issue a full update on all Christmas offers during the week.
To order your copy / copies of Tales from the Riverbank Part 3 / 2013 Calendar / 2013 Desk Diary:
Visit www.ashwaterpress.co.uk (http://www.ashwaterpress.co.uk) (Click link)
Where you can order using PAYPAL
Or use your credit / debit card and order as a PAYPAL guest.
We can also take orders for you over the phone.
On the site, you can also download an order form and pay by cheque using the post if you wish.
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Tales from the Riverbank (part 3) – Thumbnail content:
With over 125 photographs (many of these pictures never seen before), this 224-page hardback book is a breathtaking and detailed insight into two more turbulent seasons at Craven Cottage (1969-70 and 1970-71). It's a time when Fulham start their climb back to respectability. Every game, every goal, all the comings and goings on and off the pitch; every detail relating to life at Fulham FC at that time – well over 100 matches are covered.
The shock departure of Malcolm Macdonald / Fulham go crazy with eight goals at Halifax Town / Fulham score sixteen goals in just three league games / The Doncaster Rovers thugs come to town / Johnny Haynes gets the Fulham goalscoring record / The Luton Town floodlight failure / George Cohen's testimonial match / The first round FA Cup knock out at Fourth Division Exeter City / George Cohen takes charge of the juniors / The Bristol Rovers leaflet protest / John Richardson scores one of the goals of the season in a rare Fulham TV appearance / Johnny Haynes' final Fulham game / Fulham's two wins in eighteen games, and morale at rock bottom / A great revival and Fulham push on to fifteen league games unbeaten / The Fulham youth, victorious in Düsseldorf / Jimmy Conway and Steve Earle head the league's goalscoring charts / The departure of Johnny Haynes and the arrival of Jimmy Dunne / Barry Lloyd made captain at twenty-one / The Watney Cup thriller with Derby County / All five forwards score against Bradford City / Rodney Marsh's first return to the Cottage and Rangers being rattled out of the League Cup / Cup specialists Swindon Town become Fulham's next League Cup victims / Another fifteen game unbeaten run / Stan Brown's testimonial match / Dad winning the FA Cup duel of the Dodgins / League Cup quarterfinal heartache at Ashton Gate / The Gillingham pantomime on ice / Three goals in eight minutes at Priestfield / The Fulham champagne promotion party at Bradford City / The Preston North End final letdown / Town Hall celebrations / The new Riverside stand gets the go-ahead.
