Friends of Fulham

 
Premier League Preview: Fulham v Reading

Fulham will aim to give their hopes of a top-half finish a boost when they welcome already-relegated Reading to Craven Cottage.

Martin Jol's side fell to a 1-0 defeat at Everton last weekend and have now gone five games without a win since beating local rivals QPR last month.

The London outfit head into this clash with a number of players on the sidelines. Steve Sidwell is still banned following his dismissal against Arsenal, while Ashkan Dejagah, Mahamadou Diarra and Simon Davies are all out through injury.

There is good news for Jol however, with the return of talented defender Sascha Riether imminent after he missed the game at Goodison Park after picking up a knock in the loss against Arsenal.

Riether's comeback should boost a side who have gone off the boil in recent times and with little riding on this game, Jol will hope his side can return to winning ways against a Reading side that is already preparing for life in the Championship next season.

Nigel Adkins' side's relegation was confirmed following their goalless draw with QPR in their last encounter, and the former Southampton boss will be under no illusions of the challenge facing the Madejski Stadium outfit next season.

Still the visitors will hope to give their fans something to shout about before the end of the campaign, however that may prove difficult for a side that is without a win in their last 10 outings.

Midfielder Hope Akpan and goalkeeper Adam Federici could be in line for returns, but Jimmy Kebe and Jason Roberts are both still unavailable.

Fulham are far from invincible at home - they have lost seven times at Craven Cottage this season - and have fallen to consecutive home defeats against Chelsea and Arsenal respectively.

However, Reading are not of the calibre of those two UEFA Champions League-chasing clubs, and although they fought back admirably to earn a 3-3 draw in the reverse fixture in October, it promises to be another long afternoon for the Premier League's bottom club.


http://uk.soccerway.com/news/2013/May/02/premier-league-preview-fulham-v-reading/? (http://uk.soccerway.com/news/2013/May/02/premier-league-preview-fulham-v-reading/?)

 
Coaching at the Cottage

Fulham FC Foundation is delighted to announce the return of our annual Coaching at the Cottage event on Monday 27th May.

This fantastic event gives young Fulham fans between the ages of three and 14 the opportunity to take part in a 90-minute coaching session with our highly qualified Foundation coaching team on the hallowed turf of Craven Cottage.

There will be four different time slots available throughout the day:

Session One: 9.30am – 11am
Session Two: 11.30am – 1pm
Session Three: 1.30pm – 3pm
Session Four: 3.30pm – 5pm

During the sessions, children will have the opportunity to take part in fun drills and exercises before playing some mini matches.  Parents are welcome to stay and watch from the stands as their children follow in the footsteps of their heroes, by gracing the Craven Cottage pitch.

For more information, or to secure your child's space on the day, please call 0870 442 5432 or email [email protected].



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/02/coaching-at-the-cottage? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/02/coaching-at-the-cottage?)

 
Transfer news: Manchester City face fight to keep hold of Abdisalam Ibrahim

(http://e2.365dm.com/13/01/660x350/AbdisalamIbrahim_2883367.jpg?20130108200055)
Abdisalam Ibrahim: Impressing on loan at Stromsgodset

Sky Sports understands Manchester City face a battle to keep hold of Abdisalam Ibrahim, with a host of Premier League clubs tracking the midfielder.

The 22-year-old has been earning rave reviews at Stromsgodset where he is currently on loan until the end of Norwegian season.

Ibrahim has started all six games this season for Stromsgodset and his performances have been instrumental in helping the club to joint-top of the Eliteserien.

The likes of Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool, Everton, Fulham and Swansea are all thought to be keeping tabs on Ibrahim's progress and they will continue to monitor his situation over the summer.

Ibrahim is entering the final year of his contract at City and he could be tempted to move on in search of regular first-team football if he fails to establish himself at the Etihad Stadium next season.



http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/8685591/? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/8685591/?)

 
New Deal for Etheridge!
   
The tabloid press speculation this morning, infers that Fulham are set to offer Neil Etheridge a new contract.

The 23 year-old keeper, who has played second fiddle to Mark Schwarzer for the majority of the season, is likely to be given a new contract under the premise that, next season, he will be sent out on loan to give him some much needed regular first team football.

It sounds like a good move all round to us!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=318281#ixzz2SCI1vOF1 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=318281#ixzz2SCI1vOF1)

 
Ambition
by CHRIS GILBERTSON on MAY 2, 2013

Human nature is to be ambitious; we all want to be the best we can be, and to make the most success out of those abilities. The grassy knoll of human ambition is one that we all strive to climb but its as easy to climb to far, as it is to refuse to climb it at all. One thing's for certain, if you go to far, there can be a heck of a fall.

If that's all a bit existential, lets bring it back on topic, in the week that our neighbours from Shepherd's Bush finally saw the deathnail in the Premiership survival hopes, the blurred lines between genuine ambition and over-ambition have never been clearer. The lure of Italian, Indian, Malaysian and Formula One funded cash under the heralded title, ambition, has led Queens Park Rangers on a journey that their Four Year Plan could never have envisaged, yet was all too obvious.


(http://hammyend.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/article-2134395-128DB64B000005DC-318_468x323-300x207.jpg)
The difference between ambition and greed?


Having bought their way up from the dog eat dog championship, they sought to buy themselves into mid-table in the top flight. It lured Mark Hughes and his mercenary army for hire in 2011, then players swapped the likes of Marseille, Inter Milan and Real Madrid for Loftus Road, before finally Harry Redknapp turned down Ukrainian petrodollars for a shot at fulfilling QPR's ambition. Look where it's got them, an away trip to Doncaster next season. I'm led to wonder if Loic Remy, Julio Cesar and Esteban Granero have ever heard of Doncaster?

At Fulham, we always seem to understand the level of our ambitions. Even after that mesmeric run to Hamburg, when it would have been easy to get carried away, we have stayed true to who we are, building brick by brick and appreciating that finishing tenth is a good ambition for a club of our resources.

As another season draws to a close though, I ask, are we ambitious enough? This is something of an esoteric question as I am quite happy with the club's on and off field performance in recent years, as I'm sure every level headed fan, player and director would be.

However, for another 12 months, we will go trophyless and Wembley appearanceless, we still have a middling to poor away record and we have had a season of overall slumber. But here's that question again. Would wishing anything more than this be over-ambitious?

Let's face it, you name me a mid table club who sells their two best players in the last three days of the summer window and really pushes on the next year. Heck, compared to the pre Roy days of relegation dodging, our rise has been somewhat Napoleonic in its brevity.

Right now, however, I would like to state that for as enjoyable as it is, I would like next season to be about more than simply watching Dimitar Berbatov play. Our Bulgarian talisman has been the recurring constant in the theme of this season. Whether it be his soo ften-mesmeric skills, or listening to another so-called "expert" misanalyse him as lazy. Even daring to make the phone call to his agent to sign him in the first place was ambitious. But there's been little else of late.


(http://hammyend.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/fulham1-300x188.png)
Next season needs to be about more than just Berbatov, on and off the field.


Ambition and Dimitar Berbatov go hand in hand though. The "Keep Calm and Pass Me the Ball" shirt is the perfect example. We only have one more shot at making the most of Dimitar's monumental talent, the second year of his two year contract. We have to help him help us to push on next season. He needs a supporting cast. Watching Daniel Day-Lewis play Abraham Lincoln in a home movie is unlikely to win him an Oscar, for that he needs a supporting cast and director to all work as one.

We reached 40 points in Mid-April, and let's face it, that's not bad. But what happened to those incremental increases? If you look back and view this season as a complete picture, we've done ok considering. Injuries, badly timed suspensions and yes, those damn sales in August, have all gone against us, and yet we should hopefully end comfortably mid-table when all is said and done. But is wishing for a few Berbatov calibre complimentary pieces being over-ambitious?

The most frustrating thing is that unlike QPR, who were never even remotely the sum of their parts, at times this year, Martin Jol has gelled Fulham into a very attractive, skilful and tactically astute bunch, but there has been little to no consistency.

This is not a season review, the season still has three games to go. A club bigger than our own could well join Reading and QPR in the Championship next season with Newcastle and Villa still amongst the quagmire.

There have been highlights this year. Along with Dimitar Berbatov, the play of Sascha Reither in particular, but also the likes of Giorgios Karagounis and since January, Mark Schwarzer, have been particularly pleasing. Urby Emmanuelson and Eyong Enoh joined on loan and have showed flashes of quality to light keep alight the embers of ambition in all of us.

Lets just hope that we all manage to keep the ambition in balance in our heads. As fans it is unreasonable for us to get all miserable and sulky if the club isn't over ambitious. It's ok if we aren't in on signing Falcao or Cavani, but perhaps if we ever sing "attack, attack, attack" at our players, we'll know we have a problem.

For all our sake though, lets hope Fulham take every effort towards the goal of collective improvement this summer, even if it is baby step by baby step.

COYW


http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/05/ambition/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/05/ambition/?)

 
Petric's Fulham future in the balance

MARTIN Jol has revealed Mladen Petric could leave Fulham in the summer with the striker tired of his role in the shadows.

The Croatian has been restricted to just nine Premier League starts for the Whites since his move to Craven Cottage last year, but has still chipped in with an impressive five goals.

Petric has been forced to play second fiddle to star man Dimitar Berbatov, making a further 13 appearances off the bench.

The 32-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, but boss Jol is keen to keep the former Hamburg frontman at the club.

However, the Dutchman admits Petric could snub the chance to remain in SW6 in search of regular first-team football.

"Petric is one who could make his mind up himself because as long as Berbatov was here, there is not a big role for him to play," said Jol.

"The only thing is if you see his minutes he is very productive.

"He has said that he needs to play, which is what they all say. And if he needs to play, I'm not sure he will stay here.

"The other thing is my is my first combination is Dimitar Berbatov and Bryan Ruiz."



Read more: Fulham Chronicle http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/fulham-fc/2013/05/02/82029-33274755/?#ixzz2SCItD8IU (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/fulham-fc/2013/05/02/82029-33274755/?#ixzz2SCItD8IU)

 
Opta Stats: Fulham v Reading

Reading are relegated and Fulham are aimlessly drifting in mid-table. Who will have the bigger desire to win this one? Opta reveals all.

Fulham have lost their last three Barclays Premier League games without scoring a single goal. They have never lost four in a row in the Premier League without netting. Reading are 8.0 to win to nil.

In the last three league meetings between the Whites and the Royals, there have been five goals scored and a player dismissed within the final five minutes of the matches. You can find odds of 4.6 on a player being sent off.

Reading had eight shots on target against Fulham earlier in the season; the most they have had in a single game this campaign. Reading are 1.52 to score a goal.

Dimitar Berbatov has scored five goals in four league clashes with the Royals. Berbatov is 2.1 to find the net.

In Fulham's 11 league games since the start of February, only Berbatov (five) and Sascha Riether (one) have found the net for the Whites (excluding own goals). Berbatov is priced at 5.3 to score first.

After scoring three first-half goals in one game against Manchester United on December 1, Reading have scored just four goals in total before the break in the ensuing 21 league games. Fulham are 2.3 to be leading at half-time.

The Royals have lost 11 of their last 12 away league games, including their last five on the bounce. A Fulham win can be backed at 1.74.

Reading's first goal has come, on average, in the 50th minute this season; the latest figure of all 20 PL teams. The Royals are 4.4 to win the second half.

Reading players have been forced to make a league-high 11 clearances off the line this term. A Reading clean sheet can be backed at 6.4, with odds of 1.16 available on Fulham scoring a goal.



http://betting.betfair.com/football/opta/opta-stats-fulham-v-reading-020513-629.html? (http://betting.betfair.com/football/opta/opta-stats-fulham-v-reading-020513-629.html?)

Quote from: WhiteJC on May 03, 2013, 04:40:17 AM

Petric's Fulham future in the balance

MARTIN Jol has revealed Mladen Petric could leave Fulham in the summer with the striker tired of his role in the shadows.

The Croatian has been restricted to just nine Premier League starts for the Whites since his move to Craven Cottage last year, but has still chipped in with an impressive five goals.

Petric has been forced to play second fiddle to star man Dimitar Berbatov, making a further 13 appearances off the bench.

The 32-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, but boss Jol is keen to keep the former Hamburg frontman at the club.

However, the Dutchman admits Petric could snub the chance to remain in SW6 in search of regular first-team football.

"Petric is one who could make his mind up himself because as long as Berbatov was here, there is not a big role for him to play," said Jol.

"The only thing is if you see his minutes he is very productive.

"He has said that he needs to play, which is what they all say. And if he needs to play, I'm not sure he will stay here.

"The other thing is my is my first combination is Dimitar Berbatov and Bryan Ruiz."



Read more: Fulham Chronicle http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/fulham-fc/2013/05/02/82029-33274755/?#ixzz2SCItD8IU (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/fulham-fc/2013/05/02/82029-33274755/?#ixzz2SCItD8IU)

Perhaps someone can enlighten me on this one... Why do Fulham have a habit of leaving arguably their most clinical finishers on the bench... Used to be Nevland and now it's Petric... In terms of goals per minute these guys always had the potential to score goals and did when it mattered but for some reason never got the game time. Nevland was Soo clinical in one on ones... Citing our game at reading and against Birmingham for examples whilst petrics economical rate in goals to games is by far better than any of our strikers and he could've had a lot more. This guy needs to be playing and should be playing. I'd rather him and Berba up front for a run of games then Ruiz...

 
Fulham Focus - Can Martin Jol be persuaded to stay?

Last week, we asked the question whether Fulham could possibly hold onto their star player, Dimitar Berbatov.

Seven days on and the question is now not only whether the Bulgarian will remain at Craven Cottage, but whether his manager will too. News emerged this week that both Berbatov and Martin Jol could leave the club at the end of the season.

The story outlined doubts over Fulham's summer transfer ambitions to reshape an ageing squad that so clearly needs surgery. While Berbatov's potential departure has been mooted, the subject of Jol's future had seemed to have been put to bed.

Indeed, after Fulham's disastrous mid-season form, that left them on the cusp of the drop zone, reports quickly emerged that the manager was considering leaving upon the expiration of his contract this summer, with a return to the Bundesliga his most likely destination.

However, following an upturn in form, it emerged that both Fulham and Jol had chosen to activate the option to extend Dutchman's deal at Craven Cottage for another season.

The Cottagers' form has subsequently tailed off once more however and with a large number of players out of contract at the end of the season, rumours are abound that cracks have begun to re-emerge between the manager and the board.

For much of his time in charge, Jol has given off an impression of extreme comfort in his job. While at first that comfort may have been satisfying, it must not be forgotten that this is a manager who took Tottenham to the brink of qualification for the Champions League through a series of big-money signings.

After leaving White Hart Lane, his one-season at Hamburg saw him briefly threaten the top of the table before reaching the last four of both the UEFA Cup and German Cup. Then came a return to his homeland with Ajax where in his first season he won the Dutch Cup before laying the foundations for assistant Frank De Boer to lead the side to the championship title a season later following Jol's mid-season departure.

Essentially, this is a manager who is used to competing near the very top of his profession, no matter which club or which country he works in. Jol may be comfortable with life at safe, mid-table Fulham, but a manager of his pedigree, much like Roy Hodgson and Mark Hughes before him, will not be satisfied by simply being comfortable for very long.

The question the Fulham board must ask themselves is just where are they looking to take the club. If mid-table security is the sole ambition, an understandable one given the side of the club in comparison to likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham in close proximity to them, then that could prove just a little too tame for Jol to remain at Craven Cottage.



http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_0_19961_-.html#.UYPCyJW_wds (http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_0_19961_-.html#.UYPCyJW_wds)

 
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/67381000/jpg/_67381778_fulham-reading.jpg)
Fulham v Reading

Reading's relegation last weekend means I have to take into account that their manager Nigel Adkins might blood one or two younger players with a view to next season.

Fulham are safely in mid-table so you might think this game will have a real end of season feel to it. But, given that they can still finish ninth, I bet their manager Martin Jol will be looking for them to maintain his record of always finishing in the top half of the Premier League.

Make no mistake about it, ending up in the top 10 represents a very decent season for Fulham - and former Tottenham boss Jol is a very good manager.

Yes, they did have a sticky patch earlier in the season when they almost slid into trouble but, to his credit, they never looked like being dragged into the relegation battle.

Prediction: 2-0

Jol's Premier League finishes
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/67386000/jpg/_67386318_67383336.jpg)
Ninth in 2004-05 with Tottenham

Fifth in 2005-06 with Tottenham

Fifth in 2006-07 with Tottenham

Ninth in 2010-11 with Fulham



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22385025 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22385025)

 
Reading midfielder could return to face Fulham

Reading midfielder Hope Akpan could return for tomorrow's Premier League clash with Fulham.

Akpan has returned from ankle problem may figure, while goalkeeper Adam Federici could return from his ankle injury.

Jimmy Kebe (groin) and Jason Roberts (hip) are still missing.

Provisional squad: McCarthy, Federici, Taylor, Mariappa, Morrison, Pearce, Shorey, Kelly, Akpan, Gunter, Harte, McAnuff, Leigertwood, Karacan, Robson-Kanu, McCleary, Hunt, Pogrebnyak, Le Fondre, Blackman.



http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/reading_midfielder_could_return_to_face_fulham_1_2178936 (http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/reading_midfielder_could_return_to_face_fulham_1_2178936)

 
Official Charity Match

Fulham Football Club will show our support for children's hospice charity, Shooting Star CHASE, by designating the Barclays Premier League fixture against Reading on Saturday as our 'Official Charity Match'.

The game will see lots of fundraising initiatives taking place on behalf of Shooting Star CHASE. In particular, the Fulham Football Club Foundation have been working closely with the charity on different fundraising ideas throughout the year, which will culminate in a number of events on matchday.

Shooting Star CHASE is also supported by Fulham Football Club's Chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed's, Al Fayed Foundation.

Speaking at the Club's official partnership launch earlier in the season, he stated: "I am pleased that Fulham Football Club Foundation has chosen to make its local children's hospice its nominated charity. The hospice - Shooting Star CHASE - is close to my heart, and one of a number of children's hospices I have supported for many years."

The Fulham First Team squad have helped to kick-start the fundraising by donating a day's wages to Shooting Star CHASE. The Club's main Team Sponsor, FxPro, have also kindly agreed to share their space on the front of the players' shirts for the match in support of the charity, creating an awareness of the partnership to a global audience.

In the run up to the fixture, some of the Fulham squad were interviewed by eight-year-old Macauley Rogers, who is supported by Shooting Star CHASE and is a huge Whites fan.

Macauley, who led out the team for the FA Cup with Budweiser fixture at Old Trafford earlier in the season, was invited to our Motspur Park Training Ground to meet and interview Damien Duff, Aaron Hughes, Brede Hangeland, Mark Schwarzer and Manager Martin Jol. They were quizzed on their careers and all-things Fulham. He also made sure that he was on the FFC scouting radar after asking why he hadn't yet been signed!

Other initiatives on the day include £1 from every pie sold being given to the charity. Fans in attendance will also be encouraged to show their support by texting a donation on the day.

Shooting Star CHASE supports families with a child or teenager who has a life-limiting condition.  The charity currently helps over 600 families within 38 boroughs in West London, Surrey and West Sussex.

By providing expert care at two children's hospices - Christopher's in Guildford and Shooting Star House in Hampton, Middlesex - families can receive the essential support they need.

David Burland, Chief Executive at Shooting Star CHASE, said: "We're delighted to have the support of Fulham FC, FxPro and all the fans not only at this match, but during the season. Thanks to their combined efforts we are able to raise vital funds and also create much needed awareness for Shooting Star CHASE and the work we do to support local families with a child or teenager with a life-limiting condition.

"Everyone at Shooting Star CHASE is looking forward to cheering on the team on the day and I know Macauley will be ready to step in should he be needed for the post-match interviews! "

Steven Day, Chief Executive of Fulham Football Club Foundation, added: "Using our Premier League fixture against Reading gives us a great platform from which we can not only raise the profile of our partnership with Shooting Star CHASE, but also raise awareness about both of our charities.

"We'd like to thank everyone for their continued support of both Fulham Football Club Foundation and Shooting Star CHASE during the 2012/13 season."

You can help local children and teenagers with life-limiting conditions by simply texting FFCF05 £5 to 70070 to make a £5 donation.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/official-charity-match? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/official-charity-match?)

 
All You Need Is Duff

Whites winger Damien Duff is the cover star and main interview in the official matchday programme for Saturday's visit of Reading.

The Irishman has been a key player in Martin Jol's midfield this term in his 16th full professional campaign.

And, ahead of the clash with the Royals, which is also the Club's Official Charity Match in support of Shooting Star CHASE, Duff admits his time with the Whites has proved his most rewarding.

"I do mean that when I say it," he told the matchday programme. "I don't say things for the sake of it; I'm not that type of person. My time at Fulham is probably my happiest as a player.

"I actually said that the Club had been my saviour, because I'd experienced a bit of a lull at Newcastle United. I like to think that I found my feet again here, and I've been part of some very significant moments.

"My time at Fulham coincides with getting married and having two kids, so it's been a special time in my life. I feel very settled, both on and off the pitch."

Read the full interview with Duff in Saturday's programme, which is also available to download digitally from 9am on the day of the game.

The Reading edition includes interviews with Martin Jol, Eyong Enoh, Erik Nevland, Neil Smith, Nicky Shorey, Jim Stannard and Gordon Davies.

Jol pens his regular Manager's notes, Enoh takes the Fulham 50 challenge, while Davies names his team of the season in his final Legends column of the campaign.

Former Reading and Fulham midfielder Smith runs the rule over the Cottage encounter, while current Royals defender and ex-Whites loanee Shorey looks back on his time in SW6.

Stannard is the subject of our 'Cult Heroes' feature, while Nevland recalls a famous goal against Reading ahead of his first return to the Cottage since his departure in 2010.

With all the usual news and views from in and around the Club, plus much more besides, the official Fulham programme really is the essential matchday accessory. Priced £3.50, the 84-page publication is available from various sellers on Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Fans can also order copies online by heading here.

The digital edition of the programme is available from 9am on Saturday. Click here for details on how to download your digital edition.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/all-you-need-is-duff? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/all-you-need-is-duff?)

 
Kelly: "Making a point"

Defender on playing for pride

With three Barclays Premier League games left, Royals defender Stephen Kelly says that every player will be out to make a point for next season under Nigel Adkins.

Kelly returns to his old stomping ground on Saturday as the Royals travel to Craven Cottage, and he believes that the side are getting better with each game.

"When I came here it was always going to be tough between then and the end of the season, given the position we were in. We haven't done enough, but I suppose that's football - you have to take it on the chin, regroup, and build for next season.

"In the last couple of weeks we've been getting more and more positive. It has taken us a little while to get into our stride but we're playing good football, keeping the ball - I think we've shown we are capable of it.

"From our point of view we are playing for pride now and trying to get points on the board. It's a difficult situation to be in but everybody's looking to improve and make a point for next season. We've got three games left to try and get as many points as possible and move on."

Kelly says he has loved his time with the Royals so far since signing in January, and is also excited to see some old faces as he returns to former club Fulham tomorrow afternoon.

"It's one I'm looking forward to - it's always nice to go back to one of your old teams. I had some good times there and I'm looking forward to it."

"I love the club and I love being here," he added. "I've had a great time since I signed, obviously it's unfortunate with what's happened but I'm looking forward to the future."



Read more at http://www.readingfc.co.uk/news/article/kelly-making-a-point-030513-805880.aspx?#gSlzTap2G92yATWD.99 (http://www.readingfc.co.uk/news/article/kelly-making-a-point-030513-805880.aspx?#gSlzTap2G92yATWD.99)

 
Cottage ace set for summer exit - Jol

Mladen Petric could be offloaded in the summer as he is unhappy at his lack of action with Fulham, Martin Jol has confirmed.

The 32-year-old Croatian has managed an impressive five goals in just nine Premier League starts for the Cottagers this season since joining on a Bosman free transfer last summer when his contract with German side Hamburg expired. Petric's 12-month deal at Craven Cottage will expire at the end of June and it seems that he is looking at a next career move, with Jol revealing that he wants to play more first team football. The Dutch tactician can't guarantee that his situation will improve next term because he wants to stick with Dimitar Berbatov and Bryan Ruiz as his first-choice strike partnership. Therefore it is likely that Petric will move on to pastures new when the transfer window reopens for business. "Petric is one who could make his mind up himself because as long as Berbatov was here, there is not a big role for him to play," said Jol in the Chronicle. "The only thing is if you see his minutes he is very productive. "He has said that he needs to play, which is what they all say. And if he needs to play, I'm not sure he will stay here. "The other thing is my first combination is Dimitar Berbatov and Bryan Ruiz." The only glimmer of hope for Petric is that Berbatov's agent admitted that the player could be tempted to join big-spending Russian side Zenit St Petersburg this summer which would then leave a void in the Fulham strike-force for him to fill if the Bulgarian was allowed to leave.



http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/cottage-ace-set-for-summer-exit---jol-1585013.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/cottage-ace-set-for-summer-exit---jol-1585013.html?)

 
Brentford aim to put Marcello Trotta penalty miss behind them

(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/67395000/jpg/_67395245_brentford.jpg)

Had Marcello Trotta converted his second-half stoppage-time penalty kick against Doncaster Rovers last weekend, Brentford would have been promoted to the Championship.

The Italian missed and now the Bees have to progress through a play-off semi-final tie against Swindon to have another chance of securing a place in the second tier.

The players and their manager Uwe Rosler are adamant they have moved on from that late drama at Griffin Park.

"It was one of the worst experiences I've ever had," central defender Harlee Dean told BBC London 94.9.

"We all drew a line under it on Monday when we had a meeting. We all got what we wanted off our chests and everyone has moved on since.

"There is no need to dwell on the Doncaster game. It was an opportunity missed but we have got another chance, which not many people would have had.

"Nobody expected us to be where we are. We had one kick to clinch it, but it's about now showing character, picking ourselves up, moving on from it and going up via Wembley.

"It's about regrouping and being positive."

Rosler says the club's end-of-season dinner on Sunday night went some way to seeing the players and staff put Trotta's penalty miss behind them.

The 20-year-old, on loan from Fulham, had insisted on taking the decisive spot-kick, despite club captain Kevin O'Connor being the designated taker.

"I wasn't sure how the players or fans would react, but to get them in on Sunday at a well-organised event was the best thing which could happen," Rosler said,
"Everybody was relaxed and I had the chance to talk to Marcello, Kevin and a number of players.

"When we left everybody had it out of their systems and then we met on Monday. On Tuesday I could see no signs of depression or feeling sorry for ourselves.

"Now we go again but even harder."

With what is essentially a young squad, Rosler guided the west London club to third in League One in his second season in charge at Griffin Park.

The German is keen for his side to move on from heartbreak against Doncaster when they face Swindon Town over two legs on Saturday and Monday.

"It was hurtful but maybe we should reflect on the whole 10 months," Rosler said.

"We finished third and earned the first opportunity, which was unfortunately missed, and now we have another opportunity.

"It will be a tense game but probably not as tense as last Saturday as there are two legs. We need to have the same desire but also make sure we use our heads.

"It is important that our supporters understand there is no room for being fearful or negative.

"It is important we have the belief and faith in our players that we can achieve it. That will be crucial for us."

Dean says he is desperate to clinch promotion in order to repay Rosler for launching his career.

The 21-year-old centre-back was on loan at Griffin Park from Southampton last season, and has played 53 times in the current campaign after signing a two-year deal last summer.

"This is my first full season and I owe him everything," Dean said. "He is the one who gave me my chance in league football.

"He has taught me a lot of lessons, both football-wise and attitude-wise. He has helped me from being a young boy into being a man.

"This time last year I had come on loan, was out of contract at Southampton and was weighing up my options with certain other clubs.

"I wouldn't have signed here if I didn't believe in the gaffer and didn't feel he believed in me. I feel I have come a long way. I have been made captain a few times and am now vice-captain at only 21.

"I have grown up a lot and matured a lot, not only mentally but also in terms of my football. I want to repay him by getting promotion this season."



http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22388286? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22388286?)

 
Nine Point Target

Alexander Kačaniklić hopes that the attendance of Shooting Star CHASE's children and staff coincides with victory for the Whites over Reading on Saturday (3pm).

The Barclays Premier League clash with the Royals has been chosen as our Official Charity Match for the 2012/13 season, and Kačaniklić is keen for his side to secure an overdue win.

"We'd like to put on a show for all of our fans and everyone at Shooting Star CHASE," he told fulhamfc.com. "Especially the kids from the charity. I think it's really good that Fulham is involved with that, and the players have been getting involved as well, which is great.

"We need a win on Saturday. It's a home game in front of our own fans so it would be nice to get back to winning ways at the Cottage. We haven't won for a while now so at the weekend we won't be looking for anything other than three points.

"There are three games left and we want to win every one of them. That should always be the mentality – to go into every match and want to win. That's what we need to do, first of all on Saturday, and then again when we face Liverpool and Swansea City."

Our encounter with Reading will be the first since their relegation was confirmed, and our Swedish winger urged caution when facing a side that no longer has anything but pride to play for.

"They're going to be playing with freedom because they don't have anything to lose, so that's always going to be tough," Kačaniklić admitted. "They're a good side, even though they got relegated, and we know they're going to be difficult to beat.

"In their current situation they have nothing to worry about. If they lose, they lose, but if they win, that'll be good for them. It'll be a dangerous game."

Having being recalled from his loan at Burnley ahead of schedule, the 21-year-old has started each of the Whites' matches since, and he confessed he's pleased to be back aiding the Fulham cause at the end of what has been a whirlwind season for the youngster.

"Of course I'm happy to be back playing in the team," he said. "Fulham is where I should be. I want to be in the starting XI every week. I've played a lot of international games this year so it's gone from almost nothing to everything in a year's time!"

Alexander is sporting a special home strip with Shooting Star CHASE's logo on the front which all the players will be wearing on Saturday, and these are available to purchase here.

Tickets are still available for Saturday's game and can be purchased online today or by visiting or calling the Ticket Office on 0843 208 1234 (option 1).



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/nine-point-target? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/nine-point-target?)

 
FOOTBALL FINANCE: FULHAM LATEST TO 'MORTGAGE TV DEAL'

The Sun are reporting that Fulham has become the latest Premier League club to 'mortgage' their future television revenues with Vibrac, a British Virgin Island financing company, effectively freeing up the cash now instead of when the money's due.

This comes hot on the heels of Everton (£45m in debt) and Southampton agreeing similar deals – with West Ham's (£70m in debt) reputedly amounting to their entire money for the 2013/2014 season, according to Nick Harris in the Daily Mail.

In The Sun, Dan King reports of the Fulham deal that 'The West Londoners have authorised the Premier League to pay £16million into Vibrac's account with Barclays. The Premier League know who is behind Vibrac. But fans of Fulham, Everton, Southampton and West Ham remain in the dark about whose money keeps them ticking over.'

If you want to find out more, and register for the Supporters Summit at St George's Park this year, including the session on transparency in football, head over to the registration website.

For more on the financial position of Premier League clubs, go to the Guardian Website and Nick Harris's excellent Sporting Intelligence

For the Fulham Supporters Trust website, head to their website



http://www.supporters-direct.org/?news-article=football-finance-fulham-latest-to-mortgage-tv-deal (http://www.supporters-direct.org/?news-article=football-finance-fulham-latest-to-mortgage-tv-deal)

 
DAN CRAWFORD IN THE FULHAM CHRONICLE: "AL FAYED WON'T WALK OUT ON FULHAM"

FST board member Dan Crawford gave some words to local newspaper The Fulham Chronicle this week, in which he speaks about the recent debt-to-equity move taken by Al Fayed and how it underlines his commitment to the football club. The article has been reproduced in full below.

Source:
• The Fulham Chronicle

FULHAM Supporters Trust spokesman Dan Crawford says he is convinced Mohamed Al Fayed's move to secure a debt-free future for the football club is not a step towards bailing out.

The Craven Cottage club recently announced that owner Al Fayed has converted his previous loans into equity – a move which appears to put the club on a sounder financial footing.

But the intention is not to attract potential buyers, Crawford believes.

"Every indication is that while he has scaled back, or even sold off, many of his other investments, like Harrods, the football club is the one he has kept on," Crawford told the Chronicle.

"I don't think Fulham fans doubt his commitment.

"He's a visible presence and his son Karim is on the board, working closely with [chief executive] Alistair Mackintosh, which points to a continued desire to retain his interest in the club.

"I hope I'm not just swallowing the PR, but the loans gesture gives Fulham long-term security and removes any lingering doubts over long-term plans.

"When you consider some of the uncertainty at QPR, by comparison, that has to be a good thing. I'm all for a pragmatic approach."

Fulham's 0-0 draw at Norwich City on Saturday hardly set the pulses racing and a season that began full of promise with a 5-0 win over the Canaries has faded.

But at least the Whites went into a two-week break with a handy cushion above the drop zone, and Crawford senses that Al Fayed's equity plan, along with the recent planning permission to redevelop the Riverside Stand, should give fans confidence in the club's direction.

"We've been financially prudent since the initial splurge to get us promoted a decade ago and we are starting to look more at bringing on younger players," Crawford said. "These are all sensible steps."



http://fulhamsupporterstrust.com (http://fulhamsupporterstrust.com)

 
Fulham - Reading Preview: Hosts have not scored in last three games
A 0-0 draw with QPR ended Nigel Adkins's side's hopes of Premier League survival, but they could take pride against the Cottagers, who have not won in their last five games

PROBABLE LINEUPS

Fulham will be without Dimitar Berbatov (calf) for two weeks after being withdrawn during the loss to Everton last week.

Ashkan Dejagah (ankle), Mahamadou Diarra (knee) and Simon Davies (hip) are all sidelined, whilst Sascha Riether (ankle) is a doubt. Steve Sidwell (suspended) will not be seen for the remainder of the season, either.

The good news for Martin Jol is that winger Damien Duff should return from a thigh injury to take his place in the starting line-up.

Nigel Adkins will be without Jason Roberts (hip), Jimmy Kebe (groin), Adam Federici and Hope Akpan (both ankle) as Reading look to pick up their first win since February 2.

   DID YOU KNOW?
Fulham have failed to score in their previous three Premier League games, being behind at both half-time and full-time.

Steve Sidwell has the worst discipline in England's top flight, with seven yellow cards and two red.

Injured Dimitar Berbatov is the club's leading goalscorer with 13 league goals. Mladen Petric (pictured right) is second with five to his name.

Fulham have scored at least two goals in their previous three games against Reading. Fulham are 15/4 with Bet365 to win by two goals in this game.

Reading are the only team to average less than 40 per cent possession in the Premier League this season, scraping just 39%.

The Royals have kept the joint-fewest clean sheets in the league this season, along with Aston Villa and Wigan with five.

10 of Reading's 37 league goals this season have been provided by substitutes, the most in the division.

Nigel Adkins's side have lost 11 of their past 12 away games.



http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/81189/fulham-vs-reading/preview (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/81189/fulham-vs-reading/preview)

 
Fulham v Reading

By John Roder
Match of the Day commentator

BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Saturday, 4 May

Fulham talisman Dimitar Berbatov is available despite being withdrawn with a calf problem against Everton last weekend.

However, fellow frontman Mladen Petric is not fit for the visit of Reading due to a hamstring injury.

Reading midfielder Hope Akpan is back in contention after recovering from an ankle problem.

Adam Federici could also return after a similar complaint but Jimmy Kebe and Jason Roberts are still missing.

MATCH PREVIEW

There is always plenty of debate about the Match of the Day running order.

But even the most partisan of Fulham and Reading fans would have to agree, however reluctantly, that unless this match is a real cracker it could be at the back end of this week's show.

With Fulham in 11th and Reading's relegation back to the Championship now confirmed there hasn't been a lot of pre-match hype, with the media world instead obsessed by Champions League qualification and who will ultimately join the Royals in facing the dreaded drop.

However, being optimistic, it could just be an excellent afternoon at Craven Cottage.

I was at the Madejski Stadium for Match of the Day back in October for an entertaining 3-3 draw between these two teams, in which the Reading striker Pavel Pogrebnyak was outstanding against his former club.

Nigel Adkins will, as ever, approach this match in positive fashion.

The new Reading manager is still searching for his first victory since taking charge, and will be aiming for all three points from a ground where he achieved a draw with Southampton on Boxing Day.

Fulham's goal against Saints came from Dimitar Berbatov, by a long way their top marksman this season. If he hadn't scored 13 league goals this season the Cottagers may very well have been a far bigger news story this weekend as one of the relegation candidates.

To counteract my optimism for this game, consider a few facts. Fulham haven't scored in four of their last five fixtures, and have taken just one point from their five matches.

Reading are without a victory in 10 games and have scored only five goals in that time. The odds on a repeat six-goal thriller must be long.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head
Fulham have lost just one of their last seven home games against Reading. Their last meeting at Craven Cottage in November 2007 ended with a 3-1 home win.

This season's reverse fixture on 27 October ended in a 3-3 draw and left the Royals still searching for their first Premier League win of the season.

Fulham
The Cottagers have picked up the fewest points in the Premier League this season from a losing position (5).

Fulham failed to register a shot on target (excluding blocked shots) in the 1-0 defeat at Everton last weekend.

Half of Fulham's 14 league goals in 2013 have been scored by Dimitar Berbatov, while there have been three own goals.

The 2-2 draw against Sunderland on 2 March was the last time a Fulham player other than Berbatov found the back of the net; Sascha Riether was the scorer.

Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer will be making his 550th appearance in English football.

Reading
Reading are without a win in their last 10 outings (D2, L8). Their last victory came against Sunderland on 2 February.

The Royals' clean sheet against QPR last time out was just their fifth of the season, the joint-worst record in the league with Wigan, Aston Villa and Newcastle.


They have only won two games this season when they have either been level or ahead at half-time (W2, D8, L9).

Ten of Reading's 37 Premier League goals this term have come from substitutes.

Ian Harte is on the verge of his 100th appearance for Reading.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22320520? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22320520?)

 
Jol's Reading Preview

Martin Jol wants his Fulham side to push for a strong end to the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League season as we prepare to go into the final three matches, starting with Reading at the Cottage on Saturday (3pm).

It will be the first match the Royals have played since their relegation was confirmed last weekend, but our Manager insists he won't be taking the league's bottom club lightly when they arrive in SW6.

"We had a meeting on Friday and one in the week because you've got to analyse your opponents," Jol said of Reading. "You have to prepare for their strengths and weaknesses and, hopefully, we are [prepared].

"We want to end the season – our last three matches – on a very good note and get another nine points, because that is possible, and that has to start on Saturday. We want to get back to winning ways for the last two matches of the season against Liverpool and Swansea City."

Saturday's clash has been designated as Fulham's Official Charity Match for the season and Jol was full of praise for the Club's charitable ethos, and also highlighted the great work done by Shooting Star CHASE.

"I think over the last four or five years Fulham was always one of the top clubs on the charity front," he explained. "If you look at this charity [Shooting Star CHASE] for example, my Chairman [Mohamed Al Fayed] and his daughter are leading in that respect and are putting a lot of money in.

"Also, the players, the management and the staff have done a lot over the last year or so. We visited Shooting Star as well, because they do remarkable work over there and they need a lot of money to keep that sort of work going. So that is why we do that – we want to be leading the pack in that respect and we try to do that."

Going into Saturday's clash, the Whites have not won in five – losing four of those – although our Manager believes his team were somewhat unfortunate in their recent outings.

"I was happy to get these [40] points on the board because I knew that our schedule – with Newcastle United away, Chelsea at home, Arsenal at home, even Aston Villa away, Everton away – was not easy," Jol admitted.

"But if you want to perform well and get some more points to finish on a good note, of course you need results. We were unlucky a couple of times, for example with Arsenal and the sending off after 12 minutes and maybe in the Newcastle game we could have had a bit more.

"Chelsea was probably our best match but they scored out of nothing with that shot and two set-pieces, so we should do better. If we had done better we probably would have taken another three or four points [from those matches]."

There were concerns following last week's defeat at Goodison Park that Dimitar Berbatov may be forced out of action after being withdrawn with a supposed calf injury, but Jol confirmed our top scorer will be involved against Reading, as will another of Fulham's star performers this season.

"Sascha [Riether] is back in the squad, like Berbatov" he said. "Kieran Richardson was injured but is back in the squad too. The long-term injuries, of course, are that Ashkan Dejagah will be out and Mahamadou Diarra will be out. We've got another player who will be out and that's Mladen Petrić with a hamstring problem."

Jol also commented on an article that was circulating in the media this week that Berbatov could possibly be on his way in the summer – a notion that the Dutchman was quick to dismiss.

"I don't see any problem there," he said. "Somebody comes up with a story and then, of course, everybody needs to have the same story. I've never heard anything of Dimitar [leaving]. They'd have to come up with a lot of money for a 32-year-old to take him away from this Club. I don't think that will happen. I don't think there's any problem – he wants to stay at this Club."

Tickets are still available for Saturday's game and can be purchased online today or by visiting or calling the Ticket Office on 0843 208 1234 (option 1).


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/jols-reading-preview? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/jols-reading-preview?)

 
It's time for Fulham's youngsters to step up

This season, Craven Cottage has grown used to the huffings and puffings of fans desperate to see Martin Jol call on some of the club's youngsters to provide some much-needed energy and dynamism to the side. With one of the oldest squads in the Premier League, coupled with the manager's open desire to reduce the average age of the team, at times it is hard to understand the Jol's thinking. We have one of the best youth systems in the country yet we are still no closer to having a home-grown youngster as a regular fixture in the side. We remain a squad of creaking knees and balding heads.

Pajtim Kasami shone all too brightly and briefly at the start of last season but has barely been seen again in the Fulham first team; he is now on loan at Swiss Super League side FC Luzern. Kerim Frei has been dogged by injuries and now looks like he's carrying too much timber, while Alex Kacaniklic, having been a strong contributor during the first half of this season, fell out of form and favour after Christmas and was promptly pushed out on loan to Burnley in the Championship. Mind you, at least he played some games while out on loan; Frei's spell at Cardiff City earlier this season was an absolute waste of time and with limited playing time for the now Championship champions, Jol called him back early.

The Dutchman often talks of his desire that loan deals with lower league clubs include an assurance that the player will play, but surely the question is why are the likes of Frei struggling to get into Championship sides? Matthew Briggs had a similar problem at Peterborough and Bristol City last season (although he is now getting games, and by all accounts playing awfully, at Watford). Is it a question of attitude? Do these guys think they've already made it?

I'm with the manager on this one. In terms of Kacaniklic, I think that a loan spell has done him a lot of good; while he has always been great going forward, he has lacked a bit of physicality and struggled on the defensive side. Some playing time at Burnley has really brought him on. In terms of Kasami, Frei and Briggs, I'm in the 'if he's good enough, he's old enough' camp.
At the moment, these guys just aren't good enough.

Published by: Henry Hoare
on 3 May 2013


Read more: http://pickourteam.com/premierleague/fulham/news/03-05-2013/its-time-for-fulhams-youngsters-to-step-up/828668?#ixzz2SEwTmo00 (http://pickourteam.com/premierleague/fulham/news/03-05-2013/its-time-for-fulhams-youngsters-to-step-up/828668?#ixzz2SEwTmo00)

 
Alexander Kacaniklic: Fulham "need" to beat Reading

Fulham winger Alexander Kacaniklic has targeted nine points from the London side's remaining three games, starting with a win against Reading on Saturday.

The Cottagers have lost their last three league games without scoring, but Kacaniklic is confident that they can beat Reading, Liverpool and Swansea City to end the season on a high.

"We need a win on Saturday," Kacaniklic told the club's official website. "It's a home game in front of our own fans so it would be nice to get back to winning ways at the Cottage. We haven't won for a while now so at the weekend we won't be looking for anything other than three points.

"There are three games left and we want to win every one of them. That should always be the mentality – to go into every match and want to win. That's what we need to do, first of all on Saturday, and then again when we face Liverpool and Swansea."

The game against relegated Reading kicks off on Saturday at 3pm.


http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/kacaniklic-fulham-need-to-beat-reading_82615.html (http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/kacaniklic-fulham-need-to-beat-reading_82615.html)

 
U18s Take On Everton

A win on Saturday will see Fulham's Under-18s claim the Barclays Under-18 Premier League Elite Group title, however, Steve Wigley insists it's business as usual for his young side.
The Whites go into their final league game against visiting Everton (11am) ahead of second-place Reading on goal difference, with both sides taking 28 points from their 13 matches.

Having been held to a goalless draw against Manchester United on Tuesday evening and then seeing the Royals defeat Crystal Palace 2-1 on Wednesday for their ninth straight victory, both teams have plenty to play for. If successful, Fulham's Under-18s would claim a third consecutive academy league title.

View the Barclays Under-18 Premier League Elite Group table
"It's a big game, there's no doubt about that," said Wigley to fulhamfc.com. "However, we've already done the most important thing and that's qualifying for the National Semi-Final stage. Whatever happens on Saturday, we know that we have a chance to progress and hopefully reach the National Final.

"To be honest, I would have been very disappointed had we not got that far, because the boys have not only played some terrific football this season, they've also worked extremely hard. Obviously, if we beat Everton then we win the league, but I'm not thinking too much about that right now. This game is no different from any other on a Saturday, because we always go out to win.

"That was the case last time out against Manchester United, but unfortunately we just couldn't find a goal – which is quite unlike us. It was only the second time all season that we haven't scored, but we're a side that will always create chances so it's not too much of a concern.

"The fixture against United was a proper game of football. We tried to take the match to them, and vice versa. It wasn't easy, and what we saw was two teams working very hard and playing some good football.

"It was the type of game that we needed and it will be exactly the same when we face Everton. Like Reading, they [Everton] have come into a good run of form and also have something to play for because technically they can also win the league.

"Our boys won't need motivating, they know what they have to do. In terms of their own personal development, these matches are invaluable; for these are the moments that will help them progress."

In the reverse fixture in early February, Fulham recorded a 2-1 win against Everton at Finch Farm, with Liam Donnelly and Moussa Dembele on target. On Wednesday, the Toffees - who currently occupy fourth spot - edged themselves closer to overtaking third-place Manchester United with their 2-0 defeat of Bolton Wanderers moving them to within a point of the Red Devils with two games in hand.

"It's in our hands, but like I said, the important thing was to qualify for the National Semi-Final," added Steve. "The boys have worked ever so hard in training this week, and they look in great shape – which is what I want to see.

"I had to virtually drag them off the training pitch on Friday; if it was up to them they would have stayed out there all day because this group just loves to play football. Even in practice games they want to win, and hopefully they will carry that over and out onto the pitch on Saturday.

"It's been a long season for them, and yes, we've played a lot of football. But they're young lads, who have a lot of energy. They have a lot of potential, but now they need to turn that into performances. That's the challenge for them."

Fulham's place in the National Semi-Final is assured, with the top three clubs from the Elite Group all progressing. The winning clubs from Group 1 and 2 will face each other in a Play-Off before meeting the winner of the Elite Group in the first Semi-Final. The second and third-placed teams from the Elite Group will go head-to-head in the second Semi-Final.

If you wish to attend Saturday's game against Everton at Motspur Park please email Charlotte Bellamy in the Academy Office ([email protected]) so that your name can be added to the guest list. Season Ticket Holders do not need to email in advance and can gain entry by presenting their Season Ticket on arrival.

You can also follow the Club's official Twitter account @fulhamfc for live coverage and post-match reaction.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/u18-v-everton? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/may/03/u18-v-everton?)

 
Jol warns his players that 'grass is not always greener' ahead of summer transfer window

Martin Jol has told his players they are better off at Fulham as he bids to keep his squad intact this summer.

Tomorrow's Barclays Premier League clash at Craven Cottage is a timely reminder for any Fulham player with designs on a move that life is not always better away from west London, with Pavel Pogrebnyak returning with relegated Reading.

Fulham have 11 players who are out of contract or at the end of their loan deals this summer and Jol is confident of retaining them, while respecting a professional desire to move on, if they make that choice.

"You can use that cliche the grass is always greener here, probably, and not at another place," Jol said.

"There is a lot of evidence of players leaving this club and they had a better time here, maybe 80 or 90 per cent of the players.

"But that is quite arrogant to say, because other players go on to bigger clubs.

"Was there one player going to a top club or another club and did better than here? I don't think so.

"But I won't be that arrogant to say he (the player, Jol refused to name names) should have stayed because maybe they could get 100 per cent more (in wages).

"It's about them, they have to make their mind up. The players who are here, like Dimitar (Berbatov), Sascha Riether, even Mladen Petric, they all like it here. And (Mark) Schwarzer.

"I think they would like to stay."

Despite departures of the likes of Clint Dempsey and Mousa Dembele, Jol believes Fulham's record in retaining players is good.

"We want to keep our best players and we've been quite successful up until now," he said.

"I really thought we could end up with a problem with, for example Brede (Hangeland, the captain).

"I feel up until now we're capable of keeping our best players.

"It's only about two or three other players and we're working hard on that front to keep them here."

There is no update on contract talks with Australian goalkeeper Schwarzer, while there is still time to agree the option to keep on-loan Cologne right-back Riether.

"We've got another eight days so we will have to wait and see," Jol said.

Jol also dismissed reports of Berbatov leaving Fulham as speculation.

"I don't think that will happen," he said.

"They have to come up with a lot of money for a 32-year-old to get him away from this club."

Mahamadou Diarra has endured an injury-hit spell at Fulham, but will be given every opportunity to prove his fitness and earn a new deal despite his chronic knee injury.

The former Real Madrid midfielder is out of contract shortly.

"Diarra had an operation and he feels it could be two or three months (absence) but realistically it could be five, six or more," Jol said.

"He is out of contract, but we will give him the opportunity to prove himself fitness-wise. "So we will still treat him and we will do that for the next six, seven or eight months. As long as it is necessary."

Pogrebnyak had a half-season spell at Craven Cottage and Jol praised the forward, who may yet play in the npower Championship next season.

Jol said: "When he was here he was a very good professional. From the first training session he showed he wanted to play for us. He scored six goals in his first five matches and he helped us big time."

Fulham last won against relegated QPR and Jol hopes to end the five-match winless streak to finish the season with a flourish.

"We want to end the season on a very good note and have another nine points," Jol said.

"We have to start tomorrow and get back to winning ways for the last two matches of the season, against Liverpool and Swansea."



http://www.itv.com/sport/football/article/2013-05-03/jol-warns-his-players-that-grass-is-not-always-greener-ahead-of-summer-transfer-window/? (http://www.itv.com/sport/football/article/2013-05-03/jol-warns-his-players-that-grass-is-not-always-greener-ahead-of-summer-transfer-window/?)

Eight days to sign Riether for the agreed fee. That's a bit worrying, I wish they'd tied it up already. He's the best right back I've ever seen at the club. Incredibly consistent.

Quote from: General on May 03, 2013, 08:37:49 AM
Perhaps someone can enlighten me on this one... Why do Fulham have a habit of leaving arguably their most clinical finishers on the bench... Used to be Nevland and now it's Petric... In terms of goals per minute these guys always had the potential to score goals and did when it mattered but for some reason never got the game time. Nevland was Soo clinical in one on ones... Citing our game at reading and against Birmingham for examples whilst petrics economical rate in goals to games is by far better than any of our strikers and he could've had a lot more. This guy needs to be playing and should be playing. I'd rather him and Berba up front for a run of games then Ruiz...

Two of Petric's five goals came on the opening day of the season when our attacking play was being bolstered by the sorely-missed qualities of Dembele and Diarra; another of his goals was a penalty and his last goal was before Christmas. Recent appearances suggest that his minutes-per-goal ratio is heading in one direction only - he missed from six yards against Villa and cleared the crossbar from two yards against Ch***ea.