http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/132215/Danny-Murphy-Reaching-Europa-League-Final-will-be-Fulham-s-greatest-achievement-/
DANNY MURPHY: REACHING EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL WILL BE FULHAM'S GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT
24th April 2010
By Danny Fullbrook
DANNY MURPHY admitted it will be his – and Fulham's – greatest achievement if they reach the Europa League Final.
Roy Hodgson's side need only to win at home against Hamburg – after a brilliant 0-0 away draw – to reach the final.
Murphy won the UEFA Cup with Liverpool in 2001, in an incredible golden-goal fi nal against Alaves, during a season in which he also won the Carling Cup and FA Cup. But Murphy thinks reaching the final with Fulham will surpass that effort.
He said: "It's hard to try and equate what a final would mean for my career. It is dangerous to look that far. But, let's be honest, if we did manage to get to the fi nal it would be the club's greatest achievement and probably one of mine, too.
"I think we have to be really proud of the performance because at this stage we were maybe expected not to perform because we've come so far. But we've done it again so the journey continues.
"I don't like to talk about the journey we had getting there, but the legs did feel a bit heavy. Maybe that's just me getting old."
Hamburg are up against it because Fulham, who fl ew back from Germany yesterday, are unbeatable at home in Europe.
They have played eight games there this season, starting back in July against Lithuanian side Vetra, and of those they have won seven and drawn one against Roma.
So there is every reason for Murphy and the rest of the Fulham players to be confident of returning to Hamburg where the final is being held.
The 32-year-old added: "I don't think they'll fancy coming to Craven Cottage.
"Playing here every week, we're used to it – it's a tight pitch. They probably think they'll come and dominate the game like they did at their place, which they won't.
"But we won't be too complacent. Just because we're at the Cottage doesn't mean we're automatically through."
Bobby Zamora went off with his long- standing Achilles injury and is in a race to be fit for next week's tie.
But he said: "I will make sure that I am fit for the game. It will be a massive match for us."
http://www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/everton-fc/everton-fc-news/2010/04/23/everton-fc-v-fulham-preview-why-roy-hodgson-gets-the-vote-from-goodison-92534-26307478/
Everton FC v Fulham preview: Why Roy Hodgson gets the vote from Goodison
Apr 23 2010 By Ian Doyle
HAVING spent an increasing amount of the campaign dismissing speculation of his players moving away from Everton, David Moyes found the spotlight turned closer to home this week.
Such has been the impression of the Goodison outfit's New Year revival that Moyes has been touted as a replacement for Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.
While Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp put his Everton counterpart forward for the Old Trafford job, one report suggested Ferguson himself wants to be succeeded by his fellow Glaswegian.
Nonsense, says Moyes. After all, his vote for Manager of the Year is going to the man sat in the opposition dugout tomorrow afternoon.
Roy Hodgson brings his Fulham side to Goodison having guided them, on limited resources, to the brink of their first-ever European final after drawing the first leg of their Europa League semi-final at Hamburg on Thursday.
A sparkling season has also seen the Cottagers firmly ensconced in Premier League mid-table respectability and reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
And when asked for how should be named the leading manager of the campaign, an appreciative Moyes says: "I think Roy would get my vote. Roy's performances with his resources and what he's done have been excellent.
"Watching them in the semi-final, I felt admiration for what they've done. I know from experience how hard it is to win games in Europe.
"I'm not saying he's found it easy but he's beat Juventus, Shakhtar Donetsk, he's playing Hamburg.
"It's not as if he's clawed through with a few Mickey Mouse teams, certainly not. He's probably played the cream of the tournament. He gets my admiration for that.
"He has got a good squad. In the early rounds he didn't play his top players. He was able to play a different team in Europe, that tells me how strong a squad he's got."
Those European commitments means Hodgson is likely to ring the changes at Goodison ahead of one of the biggest games in Fulham's history, particularly given their arduous road trip to Germany.
That should in theory help Everton's cause as they continue to hope for a fourth successive European qualification, the target of which was confirmed as a seventh-placed finish after Portsmouth's appeal against failing to be granted a UEFA licence was rejected on Thursday.
With three games remaining, Moyes's side are seven points adrift of sixth-placed Aston Villa and five behind neighbours Liverpool, who currently occupy the final Europa League berth.
But Moyes says: "Is it between us and Liverpool? I don't know. We will just keep on chasing and see what happens.
"My aim is to win the games left and see where it takes us. We're just a little bit behind it and come the end we might look back and say if only for this or that, but in the main I don't think we can fault the players.
"Over the last 18 or 20 games the players have played really well. They've dipped here and there but I think they've done well.
"We've only had two defeats, one at Anfield which I've talked enough about and one at Tottenham where we missed an open goal late on to make it two each."
Everton must do without Jack Rodwell tomorrow afternoon with the youngster still suffering from the hamstring strain that ruled him out of the dramatic 3-2 win at Blackburn Rovers last week.
"It's only a grade one strain and he may well be okay for next week," says Moyes.
Also missing is Holland midfielder John Heitinga, who has effectively been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a hairline fracture of the ankle.
Heitinga too sat out the victory at Ewood Park after suffering the injury in Everton's previous match with Aston Villa, but Moyes believes his World Cup hopes are under no threat.
"He doesn't think it is too bad and we don't think it is too bad," says the Goodison manager. "But there is a chance he might not play again this season.
"It won't have any affect on his World Cup, he will be fine for that. He just needs a couple of weeks rest.
"It is a disappointment but he is determined to return before the end of the season. That's what makes him such a popular figure."
Everton's Premier League run has been engendered by a more expansive game, with Diniyar Bilyaletdinov in recent weeks adding to a midfield that already contains the passing prowess of Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta.
And Moyes believes finding the balance between that new expressive style and traditional values of resilience and character has proven the key to his team's revival.
"If you look at how you'd hope to build, you've got to be solid at the back to win games when you become a manager or you don't stay in a job.
"Then as it goes on you can decide over a period how you want things to change and if it's going in the right direction you introduce football players like Pienaar and Arteta.
"But at first here we introduced Tim Cahill and people like that, who we knew would head the ball in both boxes and be solid for us.
"So yes, it's important that you keep the foundations and then we know when we have to be we're hard working, but at the moment there's a style coming in which is excellent."
http://www.dailyexpress.co.uk/posts/view/171146/Danny-Murphy-feeling-Red-raw/
DANNY MURPHY FEELING RED RAW
Saturday April 24,2010
By Gideon Brooks
DANNY Murphy says he is struggling to stop his thoughts racing ahead to a return trip to Hamburg and a possible final match-up against his old side Liverpool in the Europa League final in three weeks' time.
Midfielder Murphy agreed with his manager Roy Hodgson that their semi-final tie against Hamburg was far from over at 0-0, despite their heroic defensive effort in Germany on Thursday night, but said excitement was understandably building.
"Thinking too far ahead can be your downfall sometimes, but I keep in touch with Stevie Gerrard and Jamie Carragher and I know they'll be pleased with coming away from Atletico Madrid with a 1-0 defeat.
"Anfield is a fortress and they've done well there this season, so they look like favourites to go through.
"A match against them is something I suppose I never thought would happen, having moved on from there. But let's see if it does, then I'll talk about it."
Murphy was part of the Liverpool side that won a hat-trick of cup finals in 2001 including both domestic cups and the Europa League's forerunner, the UEFA Cup. But when asked whether winning a second European title with Fulham would mean more, he said it would probably be on a par.
"It's hard to try to equate what it would mean," he added. "Sometimes it's only after events that you can realise how much it meant.
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson ready to step up hunt for Aston Villa striker John Carew
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 1:18 AM on 24th April 2010
Fulham are ready to step up interest in Aston Villa striker John Carew.
Boss Roy Hodgson wants to bolster his striking options and believes Carew's physical presence can ease the burden on Bobby Zamora.
Carew
Carew has just one year left on his Villa contract.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1268426/Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-ready-step-hunt-Aston-Villa-striker-John-Carew.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0lzfRnDty (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1268426/Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-ready-step-hunt-Aston-Villa-striker-John-Carew.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0lzfRnDty)
http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_1_2566_club-focus-fulham-hodgson-gets-what-he-played-for.html
Club Focus - Fulham - Hodgson gets what he played for
By Matt Domm
After a 17-hour coach trip to Germany - with a monstrous traffic jam to boot - it would have been easy for Fulham to lose their discipline and concentration for last night's match against Hamburg. However, as it happens, they produced the most impressive team performance since, well, the last round against Wolfsburg.
The organisation of this Roy Hodgson outfit is something all European opposition have come to expect, yet there still appears to be very little any of them can do about it. It was the second successive shutout of a solid attacking German unit in their own back yard, and it was achieved with the exact same commitment from every player who took part. Despite a justifiably shaky first half - which still did not gift many excellent chances to Hamburg - the team came out in the final 45 to defend from the front, to double-up on the home side's wingers, and to harass in midfield. Everything that Hodgson requires from his 'play for the draw' away tactic was evident, and the initial aim of not conceding was completed. Of course at this stage of any competition, even when the tactical battle is being won, the 10-man unit can be breached. Then, it is up to the last line of defence to not wake the scorers.
Instead of being tired and irritable in the pre-match press conference, which would have been understandable, Mark Schwarzer was jovial and focused, and his performance on the pitch lived up to his words prior to the game. Away European games so often end in a home win due to the distances needed to travel, and few, when considering that travelling distance had to be covered by road, would have predicted anything other than a home win last night. Indeed, at times, the breaking of the deadlock looked inevitable, but the Australian between the Fulham posts was commanding, and dealt with everything that was thrown at him. However solidly the defence played, the Germans still had chances to score, and it was Schwarzer's job to do anything in his power to stop them. It was a textbook goalkeeping display. Last season's Player of the Year, Schwarzer at different stages of the match both showed his years - with the experience required to claim corners and command his defence - and defied them, displaying the agility of a man half his age from one particular second-half dipping effort. Before the game, he claimed the coach trip had brought the players together. On the pitch it was hard to tell whether or not that was indeed the case - all 11 (plus subs) men showed the same commitment for one another as they have throughout the entire knockout stage of this tournament. Commitment that, if it continues, could well see them into a deserved cup final.
The excellent team effort last night marked the club's third successive clean sheet in all competitions. It was also the third successive clean sheet for the opposing team, with the Whites having failed to score in the two previous fixtures, away to Liverpool before the weekend's home stalemate with Wolves. Of course, with the league taking a back seat, and Fulham's record at Goodison Park - home of the next opponents this weekend, Everton - where they have yet to take a point, it matters little if that game makes it four in a row without troubling the scorers. However, in Europe, or all the hard work the defence does, a goal, or preferably two, are needed at Craven Cottage next Thursday if anyone inside the packed Craven Cottage is to have any fingernails left. What if it is another blank for the Londoners? That would be far from ideal, we all know how English sides fare against Germans in penalty shoot-outs.
Surprisingly against Wolves, Hodgson did not rest too many players, but the story will surely be different this Sunday. With the players returning from the longest trip to Germany there has possibly ever been, it would be wise for several not to travel. Top-scorer Bobby Zamora - the likeliest threat to score next Thursday - limped off so will likely stay home in preparation for the second leg. Other players worked their socks off for the draw and, in this writer's opinion, deserve a proper (rested) crack when the tables are turned next week. Zoltan Gera, who is fast becoming Fulham's European Player of the Year, in particular deserves time to recover.
It is funny how last summer's priority for Hodgson - the Premier League - and last summer's distraction - the Europa League - have switched places. Everyone, including the manager, would accept a hammering at Goodison Park for a narrow 1-0 victory over Hamburg. Whatever happens, Thursday cannot come quickly enough.
Andy Townsend's Boot Room: Memories of days on the buses
By Andy Townsend
Last updated at 10:45 PM on 23rd April 2010
Seeing Liverpool and Fulham taking to the road to get to their Europa League matches reminded me of travelling around by bus during my playing days.
I played for three teams at geographical extremes - Norwich, Southampton and Middlesbrough - which meant I spent hours on a bus going to away games.
Years ago, six-hour bus journeys were common on a Friday night to get to a hotel before a match on a Saturday. When I was at Middlesbrough, we flew once or twice to games in London but, in the main, it was coach journeys.
Jamie Carragher
I think the worst I had was a nine-hour trip to Newcastle when I played for Southampton. But the Barclays Premier League teams have it a lot easier than clubs in the lower leagues, who have to travel on the day of the game because they can't afford to stay in hotels.
Apparently Bayern Munich were going to travel to Lyon in helicopters if the ash cloud hadn't cleared in time for their Champions League semi-final second leg next week and I'm amazed Liverpool and Fulham didn't consider doing the same. I know it's a lot further but you would have thought that Liverpool could have used them once they were in France.
Travelling by coach is not ideal and Barcelona looked uncharacteristically flat at times against Inter Milan on Tuesday night after their long journey.
But the problem is that footballers love and need their routine and so any change hands them an excuse not to perform. But when you think about how gruelling travel was just a few years ago, they really shouldn't complain.
Having said that, I don't think travelling by coach is as much fun as it used to be. Long gone are the days of a raucous card school at the back of the bus, where every time the manager wandered up, you would have to hide the money under the seat. Nowadays
most guys keep themselves to themselves; they listen to their music and maybe have a nap.
There was no shortage of drinking either. If you got a good result, you would pull over somewhere and the manager would give you some money to buy a few bottles. That has long gone but when you've won and have a long bus journey home, it is nice to sit and talk football, like fans do in the pub. It's great to get the beers open and analyse the game - it gives you spirit in your camp. And if you have lost, maybe a few drinks loosen peoples' tongues and say what they feel.
Seeing Jamie Carragher reading the Daily Mail at Runcorn station took me back too. Players will tell you they don't read the papers when really they read them all. I certainly denied it when I was asked if I saw criticism about me — but I read every word!
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1268413/Andy-Townsends-Boot-Room-Fond-memories-days-buses.html#ixzz0lzhRAbuE (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1268413/Andy-Townsends-Boot-Room-Fond-memories-days-buses.html#ixzz0lzhRAbuE)
Bobby Zamora in fitness race for Fulham's Europa League semi-final return with Hamburg after suffering achilles injury
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 5:40 PM on 23rd April 2010
Bobby Zamora is crossing his fingers that he overcomes an achilles problem in time to lead Fulham's attempt to reach the Europa League final.
The 19-goal striker hobbled out of the first leg with Hamburg after less than an hour last night following the recurrence of his long-standing injury.
Manager Roy Hodgson has already ruled the 29-year-old out of Sunday's Premier League tussle with Everton and confirmed Zamora faces some intensive treatment before he is given the all-clear to start next Thursday's Craven Cottage decider.
And, having enjoyed such a stellar campaign, that is a date Zamora intends to keep.
'I have had an achilles tendon problem for a long time,' said the former West Ham star. 'It has been niggling at me for a bit now and I just did a little bit too much but I really hope to play next Thursday, I am desperate to be part of that.'
Fulham could certainly do with Zamora as they seem to have hit a scoring drought following goalless draws with Wolves and Liverpool immediately prior to last night's stalemate.
It leaves them in a slightly precarious position, knowing an away goal from a team containing legendary predator Ruud van Nistelrooy will leave Fulham with a stiff uphill task.
Fulham celebrate their draw with Hamburg
Celebrate stalemate: Fulham earned a Europa League semi-final first leg draw
That is not to obscure another marvellous night for the west London side, who are now just 90 minutes away from possibly the most famous night in their history.
'It was a great result because everyone knows what we can do at home,' said Zamora. 'We managed to keep it tight, which gives us a big chance. It doesn't mean we will definitely go through but we are quietly confident we can get a result if we play as we normally do at Craven Cottage.'
Having disposed of Shakhtar Donetsk, Juventus and German champions Wolfsburg already in the knock-out stages, Fulham have every reason to be bullish.
The platform for victory will have to be laid by another solid defensive performance, though. Apart from one half-chance in the opening minute, the Fulham defence shut Van Nistelrooy out completely, while Mark Schwarzer was on hand to make three important saves as the visitors' legs began to wilt in the latter stages.
Mark Schwarzer makes a flying save against Hamburg
'One of the best': Mark Schwarzer makes a flying save in Germany
'We are a well-drilled team, which has been a major part of our success this season,' said Zamora. 'And Mark Schwarzer is a top goalkeeper. Without doubt he is one of the best I have worked with, so we are happy to have him here.'
Having taken the option to remain in Germany overnight, Fulham were at least able to take advantage of flight restrictions being lifted, ensuring the trip back to England was not as punishing as the one out.
'It means we can get home in one hour rather than nine,' added Zamora.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1268352/Bobby-Zamora-fitness-race-Fulhams-Europa-League-semi-final-return-Hamburg.html#ixzz0lziLBfxS (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1268352/Bobby-Zamora-fitness-race-Fulhams-Europa-League-semi-final-return-Hamburg.html#ixzz0lziLBfxS)
Zam Deserves England Chance
TERRY VENABLES - Columnist
Published: Today
HE has stepped up to the plate in the Premier League and excelled in Europe.
Now the time has come to see whether Bobby Zamora can make an impact at international level and gatecrash Fabio Capello's World Cup party.
Back in August the notion of 'Zamora for England' was absurd and appeared as likely as Fulham reaching the last four of a major European competition.
The striker joined from West Ham in a �6.3million combined deal with John Pantsil in July 2008 and hardly gave them an instant return on their investment as he managed just four goals last term.
The mumblings of discontent on the Hammersmith End might have been louder than the sound of Zamora's shot hitting the net and the opposition fans might have sung a cruel version of Dean Martin's That's Amore, that went 'When you're sat in row Z, and the ball hits your head, that's Zamora.'
But his work-rate and commitment could never be faulted. And those qualities have paid off as he has been a revelation this season.
Zamora has been instrumental in what is turning out to be one of the most astonishing campaigns in the club's history.
He has notched 19 goals this term - which is already three more than he managed in the last THREE seasons.
Eight of those have come in Fulham's epic Europa League adventure which has seen them breathe life into the revamped competition by toppling the likes of Shakhtar Donetsk, Juventus and Wolfsburg on their nine-month run from the third qualifying round in July to this week's goalless semi-final first leg in Hamburg.
Zamora also netted in his team's prestigious jaw-dropping home wins over Liverpool and Manchester United.
He has transformed into a talisman by the Thames. The only chant that can be heard inside Craven Cottage these days is 'Bobby for England' - and I concur.
Time is running out before Capello names his provisional squad for the finals.
But I do not believe all the striking berths are filled yet. Wayne Rooney, Jermain Defoe and Peter Crouch are probably nailed on but that still leaves one or two more places up for grabs.
And Zamora warrants serious consideration and maybe a chance to show he is worthy of a seat on the plane to South Africa.
Capello's mantra has always been that he will only pick players who are on form and turning out regularly for their clubs.
Rival Emile Heskey has made 26 starts for Aston Villa in all competitions this season - bagging just five goals - while Zamora has made 45 starts in all competitions.
Heskey has won 57 caps and seven goals for his country and there is no doubt he links up well with Rooney - an attribute which rejuvenated his international career and has proved advantageous to England.
But Zamora is the more nimble and looks as though he would be able complement Rooney.
The Fulham ace is also adept at playing on the shoulder of the last defender, which could enable Rooney to drop slightly deeper and bring others into play.
Zamora has shown he is more than capable of holding up the ball and bringing others into play. And he has discovered the knack this season of not only scoring goals but important goals.
I believe he is capable of doing the business for England but we will never know until he is given a try.
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson and his coaching team of Ray Lewington and Mike Kelly have masterminded many shocks this season - but Zamora is surely the best of the lot.
He has gone from a striker who was much-maligned to one who can no longer be ignored. By opposition defences at home and on the Continent - or Capello.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2945826/Zam-deserves-England-chance.html#ixzz0lzkaYHRB (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2945826/Zam-deserves-England-chance.html#ixzz0lzkaYHRB)
Murphy: We must take it easy
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today
DANNY MURPHY urged boss Roy Hodgson to defy Fulham's critics and drop key players for the clash at Everton tomorrow.
Skipper Murphy admits the Europa League is now the top priority following the gritty goalless draw in Hamburg.
Striker Bobby Zamora will not even travel to Goodison Park because of an ongoing Achilles injury.
And midfielder Murphy admits the long, hard road in Europe is taking its toll - with Hamburg visiting Craven Cottage for the second leg of the semi-final next Thursday.
He said: "We've got to be careful what we do at Everton because it's probably the biggest game in the club's history next week and I'm sure we'll be criticised whatever we do at the weekend.
"Let's hope people have some understanding of that situation."
Fulham have slogged nearly 19,000 miles to reach the semi-finals of a European competition for the first time.
Thursday's match in Germany was the 57th of a gruelling campaign - and it took a 17-hour trek by road to get there because of the volcanic ash cloud.
Murphy, 33, said: "I don't like to talk about the journey but the legs did feel a bit heavy towards the end, I must confess.
"But maybe that is just me getting old.
"Let's be pleased but let's not get carried away because an early goal for them at the Cottage and the tie turns on its head.
"We are aware of the dangers but know we're capable of beating anybody there.
"We've got here, in the Europa League, with rotation.
"Everyone knows there are certain players who are automatic choices, but the players in the background aren't young kids, they're experienced internationals.
"So if you're not allowed to rotate the squad in a situation like this, when are you?
"I just hope there is not the commotion there was after the Hull game.
"It's one of those situations nobody could have foreseen, with the volcano and stuff.
"But even if that wasn't the case, to be playing the two biggest games in the club's history within seven days and play a game in between, there has to be some understanding that we might rest a few players."
West Ham moaned to the Premier League about three changes made by Hodgson for Fulham's 2-0 defeat at Hull last month.
Murphy could face his old club Liverpool in the final back in Hamburg on May 12.
He added: "It's something I never thought would happen."
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2945772/Murphy-We-must-take-it-easy.html#ixzz0lzlz6RBx (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2945772/Murphy-We-must-take-it-easy.html#ixzz0lzlz6RBx)
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/fulham-have-found-success-that-same-way-as-robson-in-1981-1952863.html
Fulham have found success that same way as Robson in 1981
Talking Point
By Glenn Moore
Saturday, 24 April 2010
Seeking an equivalent to Fulham's remarkable Europa League campaign the mind turned to Ipswich Town's 1981 Uefa Cup triumph. Then, as now, astute management was the key. Like Bobby Robson, Roy Hodgson has brought the best from a squad of players that has talent, but few stars.
Robson's genius was to integrate the Dutch passing of Frans Thijssen and Arnold Muhren into a solid Anglo-Scottish team. He also had a strong central defensive pairing in Terry Butcher and Russell Osman, a goalscoring midfielder in John Wark, and a well-balanced attack of Paul Mariner, Eric Gates and Alan Brazil.
It was an attractive side whose players knew each others' games inside out. The same applies to Fulham. Hodgson has drilled his men until their team shape is automatic, and imbued them with the confidence to play a passing game.
Robson's team was stronger – it almost won the title in 1981 – but talent was spread more widely then. With income and wages more equitable it was easier for smaller clubs to retain players. A modern Butcher would never stay 10 years at a club of Ipswich's size.
Brede Hangeland has been coveted but there has been surprisingly little interest in his colleagues. With Mark Schwarzer and Danny Murphy this reflects their age (37 and 33), but with others it may be because the team share another similarity with Ipswich, it is greater than the sum of its parts. Aside from Wark, Butcher and Muhren, who had successful spells at Liverpool, Rangers and Ajax respectively, Robson's players peaked with him.
So it appears with Fulham. Murphy and Damien Duff have shone elsewhere but most have never played better. If any are lured away it will be interesting to see whether they maintain that standard.
David Moyes, manager of Fulham's opponents tomorrow, was thinking along the same lines this week when he cautioned Steven Pienaar against leaving. There is a difference. The South African's career has been rejuvenated at Goodison but his performances at Ajax showed he has the talent to play at a very high level.
Nevertheless Moyes, like Hodgson, has created an environment which enables players to realise their potential (others include Mikel Arteta and Phil Jagielka).
One factor must be stability. Both managers are reluctant to rotate, which makes Fulham's handling of their arduous Europa League commitments all the more impressive.
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Portsmouth-FA-Cup-heroes-put-up-for-sale-by-fax-just-three-weeks-ahead-of-the-final-at-Wembley-Exclusive-article402779.html
Pompey FA Cup heroes put up for sale by fax - Exclusive
Published 23:00 23/04/10 By Alan Nixon
Crisis club Portsmouth put their FA Cup final squad up for sale yesterday - in a fax sent to all rival clubs.
Pompey's administrator Andrew Andronikou has brought in football agency Icon Sports Management to sell their players just three weeks before the Wembley showpiece.
The For Sale fax dropped on the desks of managers yesterday with midfielder Kevin Prince Boateng the top valued player at £5 million.
The former Tottenham midfielder has injury problems but is still highly-rated by the doomed outfit.
Versatile Marc Wilson is rated at £4 million, which is more than interested clubs have said they will pay. Algerian World Cup winger Nadir Belhadj is at the same price.
Some of the fees have stunned potential buyers - with Pompey remarkably looking to make a profit on some players who signed for nothing.
Pompey want £3 million for Tal Ben Haim, who joined them on a free transfer, and the same figure for John Utaka whose wages have been draining them.
Strikers David Nugent [£3m] and Tommy Smith [£2m] can go with the former Watford man's valuation also more than Pompey paid for him at the start of the season.
Veteran midfielder Michael Brown is valued at £1m, a high price for a player of his age. South African skipper Aaron Mokoena - signed on a free - is now quoted at £1m.
England keeper David James is listed as available on a free transfer along with number two shot-stopper Jamie Ashdown and a handful of other senior pros including injured Hermann Hreidarsson, Ricardo Rocha and Steve Finnan.
Even young hopeful Joel Ward, who made his debut recently, is down on the list as available to go for nothing along with veterans Kanu and Angelos Basinas.
Icon have also listed Aaron Hughes at £1 million - a case of mistaken identity as he is at Fulham. Namesake Richard is presumably the player who can leave Fratton Park for that fee.
Pompey have astonishingly revealed that they value their players at a combined total of under £30m. They are more likely to get around £10m at best, but that could still be a £500,000 pay day for Icon.
Icon have been employed by the administrators who were searching for agents with no previous links with the club or any transfer deals or players at Fratton Park.
But more experienced agents are furious and said: "Many people are owed big money by Portsmouth and won't see it when they go into administration. They should be allowed to get some of their cash back by selling some of the players."
Meanwhile there is a scramble among creditors to get into the administration tribunal, with several owed large sums and wanting a greater say in the process.
Only seven interested parties are on the committee who will vote on the administration package on May 6. Others want to be in on the act to sift through the figures.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/apr/23/fulham-bobby-zamora-europa-league (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/apr/23/fulham-bobby-zamora-europa-league)
Bobby Zamora says Fulham do not fear Liverpool in Europa League
• Home form can take them past Hamburg to final
• Fulham have not lost to Liverpool this season
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* Jamie Jackson
* guardian.co.uk, Friday 23 April 2010 22.35 BST
Bobby Zamora believes Fulham could overcome Liverpool if the two teams meet in the Europa League final next month. Photograph: Paul Childs/Action Images.
Bobby Zamora believes Liverpool would hold no fears for Fulham should the two teams meet in next month's Europa League final. The 29-year-old is conscious, though, that his club first face a difficult challenge in trying to overcome Hamburg, after Thursday's goalless draw in the first leg of the semi-final in Germany.
Zamora said of Liverpool, whose own route to the final is blocked by Atlético Madrid, who take a 1-0 advantage to Anfield next Thursday: "We got a good result at their place, 0-0 [earlier this month], which is good at Anfield, and we beat them at home [3-1 in October]. A final against them would be an interesting game."
Zamora is also confident that Fulham's home form in Europe this season, which has enabled them to defeat Juventus, the holders, Shakhtar Donetsk, and the German champions, Wolfsburg, will cause Hamburg problems next Thursday.
"We're looking forward to the second leg," he said. "We're a great team at home – we know it's going to be a very tough game but at Craven Cottage we're a different team and we have beaten a lot of good teams there this season. So we're just going to work hard and give it our all."
Despite Hamburg's strong showing at the Nordbank Arena on Thursday, a determined defensive display allowed Fulham to resist Bruno Labbadia's side. Zamora said: "Hamburg are a very good team with some very good players but we had a game plan, like we do every week. We work hard for each other and make it hard for the other team."
If Fulham were to reach the final it would be a remarkable achievement for Roy Hodgson and a club which, when he took over in December 2007, had appeared certainties for relegation. In the event, they only survived on the final day of that season. "It is a remarkable story. They've come a tremendous way and that's just down to all the hard work," said Zamora, who signed in the summer of 2008. "Obviously the gaffer's been top drawer, and fingers crossed we can continue this."
Danny Murphy, the Fulham captain who won this competition with Liverpool in 2001 when it was known as the Uefa Cup, said reaching next month's final would rank alongside his other career achievements. Murphy has nine England caps and won two League Cups and the FA Cup with Liverpool.
He said: "It's hard to try and equate what a final would mean for my career. It is dangerous to look that far. But, let's be honest, if we did manage to get to the final it would be the club's greatest ever achievement and probably one of mine, too. We're the only ones left [who did not start the season in the Champions League]. You'd think we'd deserve it but, when the teams who have got knocked out [of the Champions League] get to this stage, they're desperate to win it."
http://hammyend.com/?p=7033
Sticky Toffees
by Tor on April 23, 2010
Soooo.... off up to Goodison Park on Sunday. Historically we've not had much luck here – in fact we've never won a league game here, our only 2 victories being in the FA Cup many moons ago. My steadfast optimism means that I'm still hopeful that this will be Our Time but let's be realistic; Everton are a good side, with good players and good support whilst we're very tired and don't have the greatest away form.
They have Tim Cahill who has featured in the club's top 3 goalscorers every year since his arrival at the start of the 2004/05 season and who will be looking to mark his 200th appearance for Everton in style. Fulham old-boy Louis Saha has 15 goals in 29 appearances, and let's not forget Pienaar and Arteta who have both scored some frankly beautiful goals this season – remember Pienaar's chip at Arsenal at the start of the year? Schwarzer's going to have his work cut out for him this weekend.
At the other end of the pitch it's a bit different and I personally think they've been a bit leaky recently. Everton have given away 2 points from winning positions in 2 of their last 3 games. Careless perhaps? Or a lack of organisation? They've conceded quite a few goals at home compared to other teams around them in the league so it might even be plain and simple complacency. If we press hard and keep pressing until the final whistle we might even be able to sneak one in. Or two. Well, if West Ham can manage it....
Mark Lawrenson predicts a 2-0 home win. A few posters on the Everton messageboard I frequent (long story) predict a damn good spanking for us. They're good..... but I'm not sure they're THAT good. Let's hope I'm not left eating my words on the M62 back home.
http://www.football-corner.org/2010/04/24/sorry-liverpool-but-fulham-are-englands-favourites-in-the-europa-league/
Sorry Liverpool, but Fulham are England's favourites in the Europa League
Posted by Eric Beard on April 24, 2010 | 2 Comments
Football - SV Hamburg v Fulham UEFA Europa League Semi Final First Leg
To all Liverpool fans, I really am sorry. I love watching the in-form Reds when they put it all together, but Thursday night's display against Atletico Madrid was nothing short of abysmal. While I do not want to take anything away from Atletico and their 1-0 home victory, the truth is that the Spanish side has been in horrible form losing three consecutive La Liga matches (3-0 away to Espanyol, 1-2 home to Xerez, and 2-1 away to Villarreal). I know that there was a volcano and all that forced Rafa and the rest of the Reds to travel on the ground to Spain, but there's no excuse for not getting a shot on target. Seriously, this is Liverpool Football Club. You are supposed to be merciless and ruthless when going forward, not simply allow players to run at you freely. I'm confident that things will be sorted out at Anfield, but with the current set-up I just do not enjoy watching this club, which is not something I am happy to admit.
Football - Atletico Madrid v Liverpool UEFA Europa League Semi Final First Leg Anyway, Diego Forlan capitalized early, and while I, along with most football fans, see Liverpool reaching the Europa League final via a win at Anfield, the club has done nothing to deserve it. Call me a bellend, but I believe Liverpool are too big of a club for the Europa League. Form is temporary, class is permanent, but trophies are based off of form. I watch the Europa League to see the underrecognized play exquisite football, and that is exactly what Roy Hodgson has been able to do with Fulham. The Cottagers look slight favourites to progress to the Europa League final after holding Hamburg in Germany to a nil-nil draw, thanks greatly to a brilliant display from Mark Schwartzer. The "total football"-esque style of play Roy has his London lads playing is nothing short of breathtaking. Dominating possession and downing the likes of Shakhtar Donestk, Juventus, and Wolfsburg sounds like a great run by a side going far in the Champions League.
And yet, Fulham has made strides by reveling in its modesty. After all, the club doesn't play in front of 60,000 supporters at home; they have a cool 26,000 at most matches. No one is here to deny that Liverpool are the better club with a bigger mission and a grander history. Rather, all I am saying is that the club that plays the best football in the matches they have participated deserves to come out as the champions. It doesn't always happen, and Liverpool may very well beat Fulham if the two reach the Europa League final. However, if the two face off in Hamburg, where the Europa League final is, England's neutrals, as well as football's neutrals, will be pouring out support for the blokes based out of the River Thames.
Who are you cheering on?
Eric Beard is the co-founder of afootballreport.com
Fulham Fans Abroad video from ITV -
http://www.itv.com/london/fulham-fans-abroad00343/ (http://www.itv.com/london/fulham-fans-abroad00343/)
http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/04/23/hamburg-0-0-fulham/ (http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/04/23/hamburg-0-0-fulham/)
Hamburg 0-0 Fulham: two similar sides
April 23, 2010
A very lifeless game contested by two sides seemingly happy to take the 0-0; both played similar 4-4-2 shapes and consequently no player enjoyed any time or space on the ball.
Hamburg set out in a 4-4-2 shape with Jonathan Pitroipa and Pitor Trochowski playing as 'inverted' wingers, David Jarolim playing as the holding player with Ze Roberto the more creative midfielder. Jose Guerrero dropped off Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Fulham's shape was almost identical. They too played inverted wingers – Damien Duff and Simon Davies, and had a similar midfield partnership – Dickson Etuhu as the destroyer, Danny Murphy as the passer. Bobby Zamora was the targetman, with Zolan Gera generally very close to him.
The consequence of both sides playing wrong-footed wingers was a very narrow active playing area - both sides set out their 4-4-2 with an emphasis on getting the ball into wide areas, but when it got there, all four wingers were intent on coming inside into the congested centre, rather than having the confidence to beat their full-back on the outside and swing a cross in. To add to this, neither set of full-backs provided much of an attacking threat - Paul Konchesky and Chris Baird because their instruction was to stay at home, Guy Demel and Dennis Aogo because neither are particularly competent on the ball.
Fulham's wide midfielders played a mainly defensive role, sitting in front of their full-backs and forming two banks of four. It was difficult for them to provide much of an attacking threat as they were generally picking the ball up 70 yards from goal.
Fulham's main route of attack, therefore, was to knock long balls to Bobby Zamora, who would compete with the centre-backs and lay it back to Zoltan Gera. This approach worked well on 13 minutes, when a long ball was met by a nonchalant Zamora flick, but Gera's effort was deflected wide. Zamora struggled to recreate this scenario throughout, partly through the good work of the Hambug centre-backs, but also because he was plainly not 100% fit.
With the centre-backs concentrating on Zamora, and with Zoltan Gera playing essentially as a forward, Fulham actually looked equally dangerous when they hit long-ish balls into feet for Gera, but it was him and a half-fit Zamora against four defenders, and the reality is that Fulham didn't produce a shot on target in the entire game. Clint Dempsey came on for Zamora in the second half and played slightly deeper and helped Fulham press higher up the pitch, but offered relatively little in the way of creativity.
Fulham defended excellently throughout – Konchesky and Baird played extremely narrow – especially Baird, as he looked to prevent Pitroipa getting in at the far post with diagonal runs. Their clean sheet, however, was as much to do with Hamburg's toothlessness as it was Fulham's positional excellence. The home side constantly had Fulham pegged back on the edge of their own area, and yet never really forced the issue – maybe fearing the Fulham counter-attack. Most of Hambug's shots came from long-distance efforts when Fulham's central midfielders were dragged slightly too deep – they never looked to pass their way through Fulham (although this can be partly attributed to Fulham's narrowness).
Frankly, the game was not remotely interesting, although it sets up an intriguing second leg.
Quote from: White Noise on April 24, 2010, 07:39:37 AM
http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/04/23/hamburg-0-0-fulham/ (http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/04/23/hamburg-0-0-fulham/)
Hamburg 0-0 Fulham: two similar sides
April 23, 2010
A very lifeless game contested by two sides seemingly happy to take the 0-0; both played similar 4-4-2 shapes and consequently no player enjoyed any time or space on the ball.
Hamburg set out in a 4-4-2 shape with Jonathan Pitroipa and Pitor Trochowski playing as 'inverted' wingers, David Jarolim playing as the holding player with Ze Roberto the more creative midfielder. Jose Guerrero dropped off Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Fulham's shape was almost identical. They too played inverted wingers – Damien Duff and Simon Davies, and had a similar midfield partnership – Dickson Etuhu as the destroyer, Danny Murphy as the passer. Bobby Zamora was the targetman, with Zolan Gera generally very close to him.
The consequence of both sides playing wrong-footed wingers was a very narrow active playing area - both sides set out their 4-4-2 with an emphasis on getting the ball into wide areas, but when it got there, all four wingers were intent on coming inside into the congested centre, rather than having the confidence to beat their full-back on the outside and swing a cross in. To add to this, neither set of full-backs provided much of an attacking threat - Paul Konchesky and Chris Baird because their instruction was to stay at home, Guy Demel and Dennis Aogo because neither are particularly competent on the ball.
Fulham's wide midfielders played a mainly defensive role, sitting in front of their full-backs and forming two banks of four. It was difficult for them to provide much of an attacking threat as they were generally picking the ball up 70 yards from goal.
Fulham's main route of attack, therefore, was to knock long balls to Bobby Zamora, who would compete with the centre-backs and lay it back to Zoltan Gera. This approach worked well on 13 minutes, when a long ball was met by a nonchalant Zamora flick, but Gera's effort was deflected wide. Zamora struggled to recreate this scenario throughout, partly through the good work of the Hambug centre-backs, but also because he was plainly not 100% fit.
With the centre-backs concentrating on Zamora, and with Zoltan Gera playing essentially as a forward, Fulham actually looked equally dangerous when they hit long-ish balls into feet for Gera, but it was him and a half-fit Zamora against four defenders, and the reality is that Fulham didn't produce a shot on target in the entire game. Clint Dempsey came on for Zamora in the second half and played slightly deeper and helped Fulham press higher up the pitch, but offered relatively little in the way of creativity.
Fulham defended excellently throughout – Konchesky and Baird played extremely narrow – especially Baird, as he looked to prevent Pitroipa getting in at the far post with diagonal runs. Their clean sheet, however, was as much to do with Hamburg's toothlessness as it was Fulham's positional excellence. The home side constantly had Fulham pegged back on the edge of their own area, and yet never really forced the issue – maybe fearing the Fulham counter-attack. Most of Hambug's shots came from long-distance efforts when Fulham's central midfielders were dragged slightly too deep – they never looked to pass their way through Fulham (although this can be partly attributed to Fulham's narrowness).
Frankly, the game was not remotely interesting, although it sets up an intriguing second leg.
And my names jimmy bullsht and I'm reporting for 2zonalmarking.net" I think that says it all really.
http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/association=eng/news/newsid=1476989.html
Smalling sparkle catches United's eye
Published: Saturday 24 April 2010
Just two years after leaving non-league football, 20-year-old defender Chris Smalling is now ready to show his worth at Manchester United FC after rising to prominence with Fulham FC.
Name: Chris Smalling
Club: Fulham FC
Debut: 24/05/09 v Everton (Premier League)
Position: centre-back
Nationality: English
Date of birth: 22/11/89
"Sir Alex Ferguson doesn't make mistakes when it comes to identifying a young player," says Fulham FC manager Roy Hodgson. As a man who has won 11 Premier League titles, five FA Cups and two UEFA Champions Leagues, Sir Alex's judgement is indeed widely accepted to be shrewder than most. So, when the Manchester United FC boss signs a player with just a handful of top-flight appearances under his belt, the football fraternity sits up and takes notice.
Former Maidstone United FC defender Chris Smalling only made his Fulham debut on the final day of last season and has added just nine league games to his CV this term. He has featured a further four times in the Cottagers' run to the UEFA Europa League semi-finals and played once in both the League Cup and FA Cup.
Such a scarcity of playing time has not deterred the powers that be, however. England Under-21 manager Stuart Pearce handed Smalling his international debut in August, while United swooped in January to seal his move to Old Trafford this summer. Languid, poised and pacy, there is evidence aplenty to suggest Smalling can cope with such a rapid move from the shadows to the spotlight.
Breakthrough game:
PFC CSKA Sofia 1-1 Fulham
17/09/09 UEFA Europa League
With just one Premier League substitute appearance to his name, Smalling had very much stayed under the radar. Hodgson, though, had no reservations in throwing the player into his starting lineup for the first group game of Fulham's European campaign. Smalling never seemed out of place and has not looked back since.
He says:
""Maidstone helped in terms of growing up and handling the rough and tumble of the game. "Most of the players I met had dropped out of the [professional] game. Knowing the other side of football makes me focused. I've seen where I could end up if I don't make the most of my opportunities."
"No doubt there'll be pressure [at United] but when you get to the higher levels of the game pressure is something you have to face. I'm just getting it younger than some. Hopefully by training and playing with those players [at United] I'll learn how to handle it."
They say:
"We've signed Smalling because he's a player of outstanding potential. We recognise and identify players in that mould and we act. He has terrific height, good balance, he's quick, and at 20 years of age he has done exceptionally well for such a short period in the professional game. "I don't see anything other than an outstanding prospect"."
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson
""We've known we had a diamond in our midst, it didn't take long for me to realise in training that he had something special". Sir Alex Ferguson doesn't make mistakes when he identifies a young player. He pays a lot of money for that player because in years to come he realises it will look very cheap."
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson
"Roy Hodgson speaks very highly of him and when Roy speaks that highly of someone, then you know they are a serious player. He has been outstanding. I like what I see. He doesn't mind mixing it. He's a good stature for a centre-half. He just needs to learn the game now, and the only way you do that is by playing matches. It's the only thing he's short of."
England Under-21 manager Stuart Pearce
"He's a good boy, he takes advice. Mentally he is very strong. He's also the kind of boy who doesn't like defeat at all, and when he starts training, the way he trains is the way he plays his games, which is good. He does the training, he doesn't joke, he comes into training on time, he does well. After training you see him in the gym doing extra work. It's just the beginning. I think he has got a great future. He is going to be unstoppable, he is going to be one of the best centre-backs in the world very soon."
Fulham defender John Pantsil talking to UEFA.com in February
http://www.sportingpreview.com/matches/09105046.php
EVERTON v FULHAM
ROBBO'S BIG MATCH STATS
Sporting Preview, 24 Apr 2010
Head To Head
This will be the 51st all-time meeting between these two clubs. Of the previous 50 encounters Everton have won 21, Fulham have won 18 and there have been 18 draws.
Everton have never lost a home league game against Fulham.
The Toffees have won all eight of their Premier League clashes with Fulham at Goodison Park.
Fulham have not picked up a league point at Goodison Park since they fought out a 0-0 draw on 5 September 1959.
Everton
Everton are unbeaten in eight Premier League outings (Won 4, Drawn 4).
The Toffees have lost just two of their last 21 top-flight matches.
David Moyes's men are looking to extend their unbeaten home league run to 11 games. They have won seven of the previous 10.
Fulham
Fulham have won just one of their last seven Premier League matches. They have failed to score in five of those games.
The Cottagers have gone 16 away league games without a win (Lost 9, Drawn 7).
Roy Hodgson's men have accumulated four more points this season than they had at this stage last term.
LEADING GOALSCORERS
Everton
Saha: 15 goals
Fulham
Zamora: 19 goals
MOST RECENT CLASH
Fulham 2-1 Everton (13 September 2009)
ROBBO'S PREDICTION
Everton 2-0 Fulham
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/4/24/1441303/10-things-i-think-about-fulham
10 Things I Think About Fulham Football Club This Week April 24th
Tiny by Russ Goldman on Apr 24, 2010 4:49 PM BST Comment 0 comments
Every week I like to write about subjects that are on my mind regarding Fulham Football Club. This was an interesting week for the team. Fulham tied Wolverhampton 0 - 0 at Craven Cottage last Sunday. They also tied Hamburg 0 - 0 in Germany in the Europa League Semifinals. This upcoming week will be very interesting. Fulham play Everton at Goodison Park on Sunday. Then, on Thursday the team plays Hamburg in the second leg of the Semifinals of the Europa League at Craven Cottage. I certainly have several things on my mind regarding Fulham. Below are my "10 Things I Think About Fulham Football Club This Week April 24th."
1. I think Kevin Doyle would be a great transfer target for Fulham. I believe last summer there were rumors of him being a summer target. After watching the game last Sunday I was impressed by him as a striker. I would love if Fulham really went after him this summer. He would look great playing for the Cottagers.
2. I think I have gained a great amount of respect for Wolverhampton. Going into the match I thought this was a game that Fulham should win at home. This was a pretty even game on Sunday. Wolverhampton were tough to breakdown. They weren't flashy, but got the job done. Wolverhampton might be in the Premier League for awhile.
3. I think Fulham made the best out of the travel situation. It wasn't ideal for Fulham to travel to Germany by Coach. Fulham seemed to make the best of it. They even got outside and exercised on the motorway during a traffic backup. It probably was also a chance for them to further bond together.
4. I think Mark Schwarzer was incredible in Germany. In my opinion, he was the difference in the match. Late in the game he was under serious pressure from Hamburg. He made two finger - tipped saves. He gave Fulham a fighting chance in the second leg. He has been great all year. Goalkeeper is not an issue for Fulham.
5. I think not getting an away goal in Germany just makes it tougher for Fulham in the Europa League Semifinals. The second leg would have been easier for Fulham with this away goal. They really could use a shut out from Schwarzer in the second leg. I still like our chances. It just makes the job a little harder. Fulham still have a good opportunity to move on to the Finals.
Star-divide
6. I think Hamburg should travel by coach to London. It only seems fair that Hamburg should travel by coach to play Fulham. They should have to deal with the same issues Fulham had in the first leg. It is not going to happen.
7. I think I am fine with resting players for the Everton match. Bobby Zamora is probably not going to play. If Roy decides to rest five other players he has my support. I have no idea what he is going to do. The Europa League is now the priority. I have faith the Hodgson will do what is best for Fulham.
8. I think Bobby Zamora will play against Hamburg on Thursday. Bobby has been fighting this Achilles injury for awhile now. This is not a new injury. Hopefully with rest he will be ready to go. This is probably the biggest game in his life. I am sure he will do everything in his power to play.
9. I think Fulham need to be aggressive at home against Hamburg. Fulham are at there best when they are at home. They can't sit back in this match and expect to win. They need to take control of this match and look to score whenever possible.
10. I think Piotr Trochowski not being able to play this Thursday for Hamburg definitely helps Fulham. He is ineligible for this match because of the last yellow card he received in the first leg. Chris Baird is not available for Fulham becuase of the same situation. However, Trochowski was very dangerous for Hamburg in the first leg. Fulham can replace Chris Baird and survive. The question is how will Hamburg play without Trochowski? I am not saying he is their most valuable player. I am just saying he is a very good player, and any team would feel some affects of him not being available.
As you can tell I certainly have many things on my mind. I am sure I will have plenty of things to think about next week.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2891/previews/2010/04/24/1892951/premier-league-preview-everton-fulham
Premier League Preview: Everton - Fulham
Toffees target Europa League as Cottagers eye final in Hamburg
By Jamie Dunn
24 Apr 2010 16:30:00
Kickoff: Sunday 25 April, 15:00 BST
Goodison Park, Everton
After a slow start to their Premier League campaign, Everton turned a corner at the start of 2010 and haven't looked back since. David Moyes' side have arguably been the form side at the turn of the decade, losing just three times in the league all year, claiming the scalps of Chelsea and Manchester United in the process.
Injuries hampered Moyes' squad early on, but that weight has been almost lifted and, as a result of the Toffees' rejuvenated form, coupled with Portsmouth's lack of a UEFA license, the Goodison Park faithful are hopeful of qualification for the Europa League.
Reaching next season's competition would most likely come at the expense of seventh-placed Liverpool and a win over Fulham could reduce the gap between the Merseyside rivals to just two points. Completely derailing the Reds' year would make success all the more sweet.
Fulham are out of the running for European places this season, but their commitments on the continent are far from over. Roy Hodgson's side battled to a goalless draw at the Nordbank Arena in Hamburg and, should they secure a victory at Craven Cottage, the Whites will be returning to Germany for the Europa League final in May.
Hodgson has admitted to having one eye on midweek endeavours in the past and is likely to change the side that played on Thursday in order to rest key personnel. Regardless, Everton should still expect a tough test from a side that has proven to be extremely difficult to break down for long spells of the season.
FORM GUIDE
Everton
Blackburn 2-3 Everton (Premier League)
Aston Villa 2-2 Everton (Premier League)
Everton 2-2 West Ham (Premier League)
Wolves 0-0 Everton (Premier League)
Man City 0-2 Everton (Premier League)
Fulham
Hamburg 0-0 Fulham (Europa League)
Fulham 0-0 Wolves (Premier League)
Liverpool 0-0 Fulham (Premier League)
Wolfsburg 0-1 Fulham (Europa League)
Fulham 2-1 Wigan (Premier League)
TEAM NEWS
Everton
Moyes has only a handful of injury worries ahead of Sunday's game; John Heitinga [ankle] is forced out, while long-term absentees Marouane Fellaini [foot] and Dan Gosling [knee] are still missing.
Possible Starting XI: Howard; Hibbert, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Bilyaletdinov, Neville, Cahill, Arteta, Pienaar; Saha.
Fulham
Bobby Zamora has aggravated an Achilles injury and is unlikely to be risked ahead of the Europa League second-leg with Hamburg. Andrew Johnson [knee] is out for the season, and Simon Davies [rib] is a doubt, but John Pantsil, who has been out for four months, could make his long-awaited return.
Possible Starting XI: Schwarzer; Pantsil, Smalling, Hughes, Shorey; Duff, Murphy, Etuhu, Dempsey; Gera; Okaka.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Everton
He may be lucky to be available for selection following a petulant poke to the eye of Blackburn's Morten Gamst Pedersen, but Mikel Arteta has played a central role in Everton's rejuvenation. The midfielder is a cultured player of the highest class who, were it not for the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Xavi, would surely be bound for South Africa this summer.
Fulham
With Bobby Zamora set to miss out due to injury, Stefano Okaka may get another chance to impress at Goodison Park. The young striker is cup-tied for Europa League duty and so is missing the European adventure, but the on-loan forward could endear himself to Fulham fans with a few Premier League goals before returning to Roma.
PREDICTION
Fulham fans haven't seen a goal in over four and a half hours of football. That is likely to change at Goodison Park against an Everton side who have conceded two goals in their last three games, but should edge this encounter.
Everton 2-1 Fulham
Clint Dempsey: Fulham's season already a success
American attributes season's fortunes down to hard work
By Tim Ward
24 Apr 2010 16:00:00
Clint Dempsey has declared Fulham's season a success no matter what happens over the coming week.
After their marathon trip to Hamburg, Roy Hodgson's men are back on the road again on Sunday when they tackle Everton, who have not given up hope of landing a European berth themselves following confirmation that Portsmouth will not be allowed to enter.
But Fulham could hardly be blamed for looking slightly further ahead to Thursday's semi-final second leg with Hamburg, arguably the biggest game in the club's history.
After a 0-0 draw in the first leg Fulham are fancied to progress to May's final, but even if they do not, having come so far in a competition they began back in July and with mid-table security already established in the Premier League, Dempsey feels his teammates will deserve a pat on the back.
"No matter what happens now we have already had a good season," said the United States international.
"I am not surprised at how well we are doing. We work hard and when you put in work like that it shows."
Danny Murphy has already gone public with Fulham's plan to rest key players at Goodison Park to try to keep some freshness in the team ahead of their date with destiny.
If past history is any guide, Nicky Shorey and Manchester United-bound Chris Smalling will both be involved against the Toffees, along with Stefano Okaka.
Fulham have never won at Everton in the league, a record which looks unlikely to be broken in the circumstances.
Roy Hodgson will be looking for goals after going three matches without finding the net, even if the Fulham boss claims to not be concerned.
"They have not been easy games," he said. "We had a goalless draw at Liverpool, which most people would regard as a positive result, and drawing in Hamburg was pretty creditable as well.
"It was disappointing not to score against Wolves last weekend but maybe our minds were already on the Hamburg game.
"I am not too concerned because we have goals in the team."
Hodgson can only hope that by making changes for such a tough game he is injecting his side with a group of players with something to prove.
Even for a manager of his capabilities though, it seems a pretty hard job given the proximity of the two games and what is at stake.
"We are so close to making the final and you don't get many opportunities to do that," said Dempsey. "It would be great for Fulham but it would also be great for the players who are putting in the work every week.
"We have come this far. We will be doing everything we can to make sure we are there."
