Preview: Fulham – West Brom: Stage Set For Berbatov To Finally Get His First Goal Of The Season
(http://squawka.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Fulham-West-Brom-Preview.jpg)
Fulham vs West Brom
Date: Saturday 14th September
Venue: Craven Cottage
Kick-off: 3pm
Team News: Fulham
Aaron Hughes, Pajtim Kasami and Maarten Stekelenburg are possible returning players to a Fulham side that has had an indifferent start to the season. Kieran Richardson remains a absentee for the hosts, and should be returning to action in the next two weeks.
Team News: West Brom
Matej Vydra and Steven Reid look set to return after picking up knocks in recent domestic action, which should provide the Baggies with potential goals and cover for the right-back position that have been missing in recent games. However, James Morrison is set to have a late fitness test to determine if he has recovered from his groin injury.
Recent Form
West Brom sit bottom of the pile after three games, which isn't a problem in itself, however Steve Clarke's side have failed to hit the back of the net – which is a much more worrying statistic. For Fulham, things aren't as shaky, picking up one win in their opening clashes, but Martin Jol's outfit are in need of good home form to have a successful Premier League campaign.
Players to Watch:
Fulham: Dimitar Berbatov
Not yet to reach his scintillating best in Fulham's three opening fixtures, Berbatov is waiting to be set alight for the current campaign. Blessed with well-documented technical ability, and with Fulham being heavily reliant on the Bulgarian for goals, look out for Berbatov to net on Saturday against a stuttering West Brom side.
West Brom: Victor Anichebe
Victor Anichebe completed a deadline day move to the Hawthorns, and there is certainly an air that the Nigerian must now finally prove himself to be a Premier League striker. Managing six goals in the league last season, despite appearing on 26 occasions, Anichebe needs to step up to the plate, and there is no time better to do that than on your debut. That said, the 25-year-old only narrowly pips fellow new signing Stephane Sessegnon to the limelight.
Victor Anichebe Goals Scored (Last Season)
Prediction:
With West Brom misfiring and Fulham looking to assert Craven Cottage as a tough place to go during the current campaign, I would expect a narrow Fulham win. Given the money spent on deadline day by the Baggies, Clarke would be disappointed to not see a goal from his side. Similarly, with Berbatov yet to net this season, and Darren Bent waiting in the wings to prove himself, I see Fulham also managing to get on the scoresheet on Saturday.
Fulham 2-1 West Brom
http://squawka.com/news/2013/09/12/20887/2013091220887? (http://squawka.com/news/2013/09/12/20887/2013091220887?)
Milan starlet interesting Fulham
Fulham are set to battle it out with a number of Italian clubs to sign striker M'Baye Niang on loan from AC Milan in January.
The 18-year-old was expected to be a big hit for the Serie A giants when he joined last summer from French club Caen but scored just once in 24 appearances for the Rossoneri last season. Milan have not given up hope he could be a star in the future but are unlikely to be able to afford the teenager much game time this term following the summer signings of Kaka and Alessandro Matri. Niang, who was recently left off Milan's 25-man squad list for the Champions League, is now thought to have been made available for loan in January. Fulham are thought to have made their interest in the Frenchman known and are hopeful of bringing him in on a temporary basis, much like they did with fellow Milan youngster Urby Emanuelson last season. However, they face competition from Italian outfits Genoa and Sampdoria - the latter of who had tried to sign Niang in the summer transfer window.
Read more at: http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/milan-starlet-interesting-fulham-1631248.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/milan-starlet-interesting-fulham-1631248.html?)
Fulham ponder Duff future
FULHAM are weighing up a new deal for veteran winger Damien Duff.
The 34-year-old Irishman has clocked up more than 150 appearances for the Whites since his move from Newcastle United in 2009.
Duff only signed a 12-month extension back in February to tie him to Craven Cottage until next summer.
But boss Martin Jol believes the former Blackburn and Chelsea man could play on beyond the end of the campaign, providing he stays fit.
He said: "A few years ago they told me he was quite old – he was 33 – and he's still playing, so I don't know [how long he can go on for].
"It was the same with Danny Murphy. Every year they gave him another year, but he was 35 and still one of our best players.
"He's a true professional. What we will do for him is give him an extension if we feel he can play for another year."
Read more: Fulham Chronicle http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/fulham-fc/2013/09/12/82029-33835564/?#ixzz2ejw0wh4v (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/fulham-fc/2013/09/12/82029-33835564/?#ixzz2ejw0wh4v)
Steve Clarke - West Brom in good shape for Fulham
Albion boss Steve Clarke today claimed the Baggies in good shape as they head for Fulham on Saturday targeting their first win of the season.
The Baggies travel to Craven Cottage with just one point and no goals from their opening three Premier League matches but are boosted by the deadline-day arrivals of Lee Camp, Morgan Amalfitano, Stephane Sessegnon and Victor Anichebe.
And Clarke is hoping the two-week international break before the weekend's match will also work in his side's favour.
"Since deadline day we have had Lee, Morgan and Victor able to train with the group, which is good.
"Stephane has been away with his country but he's back now.
"We're definitely in a better place as a squad because the squad is stronger now. It's competitive.
"Now we just need to get them working together and picking up points.
"This year the break came at a good time. Last year we were a bit disappointed it came when it did because we had started well.
"This year we haven't started well so it's nice to have got a little breather and done some good work in training.
"It was a busy transfer deadline day when we brought in some new players to help the group and I've managed to have some of them around in training to start working towards what will hopefully be a successful season.
"The deadline day was good for us because we got good players in – big players that will give us something different and improve the group. Hopefully that will show very quickly in the results."
http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/west-bromwich-albion-fc/2013/09/12/steve-clarke-west-brom-in-good-shape-for-fulham/? (http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/west-bromwich-albion-fc/2013/09/12/steve-clarke-west-brom-in-good-shape-for-fulham/?)
Fulham v West Brom preview: Team strengths, tactics and stats
Check out all the vital statistics ahead of this weekend's Premier League meeting at Craven Cottage
(http://www.independent.co.uk/incoming/article8811413.ece/ALTERNATES/w460/FulhamvWestBrom.jpg)
Ahead of this weekend's Premier League meeting, between Fulham and West Brom, see how the sides compare on possession, pass accuracy, tactics and much more.
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-v-west-brom-preview-team-strengths-tactics-and-stats-8811470.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-v-west-brom-preview-team-strengths-tactics-and-stats-8811470.html)
Fulham FC | What's Not To Like?
With the seemingly ever-growing discontent surrounding modern football, it can be hard to find those little nuggets of nice-ness to restore faith. Fulham FC have always struck me as a nice club. (The regular handing over of three points on so many of their away days to the home team is nice, for instance.)
This weekend, they face West Bromwich Albion. It is early days, but neither side have had the greatest of starts. West Brom prop up the infant Premier League table with a point from three games and Fulham just have an opening day win against Sunderland to show. Two of those pesky away fixtures that the club seem to dislike so much followed that match — the results were true to form. A look at Paddy Power's Premier League odds for this weekend's game, though, clearly respects the fact that Fulham are back in the homely surroundings of Craven Cottage.
My own link with the club is recent — and small. It does, however, mean that I feel an obligation to at least check their result each weekend...
http://grumpyoldfan.net/fulham-fc-whats-like/? (http://grumpyoldfan.net/fulham-fc-whats-like/?)
Brede Hangeland v Gareth McAuley: Head-to-head analysis ahead of the clash between Fulham and West Brom
Check out all the vital statistics concerning the two sides' defenders ahead of this weekend's Premier League meeting at Craven Cottage
(http://www.independent.co.uk/incoming/article8811414.ece/ALTERNATES/w460/HangelandvsMcAuley.jpg)
Ahead of this weekend's Premier League meeting, between Fulham and West Brom, see how the sides' defenders Brede Hangeland and Gareth McAuley compare.
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/brede-hangeland-v-gareth-mcauley-headtohead-analysis-ahead-of-the-clash-between-fulham-and-west-brom-8811651.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/brede-hangeland-v-gareth-mcauley-headtohead-analysis-ahead-of-the-clash-between-fulham-and-west-brom-8811651.html)
Fulham set to extend Damien Duff's contract as Martin Jol praises Irishman's contribution
The veteran winger, 34, could stay on at Craven Cottage providing he stays fit, according to his boss
(http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article1338192.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Fulham's%20Damien%20Duff%20celebrates%20scoring%20his%20side's%20second%20goal-1338192)
New deal: Damien Duff could be offered a contract extension at Fulham, boss Martin Jol says
PA
Fulham are considering offering a new deal to veteran winger Damien Duff.
The 34-year-old Irishman has clocked up more than 150 appearances for the Whites since his move from Newcastle United in 2009.
Duff only signed a 12-month extension back in February to tie him to Craven Cottage until next summer.
But boss Martin Jol believes the former Blackburn and Chelsea man could play on beyond the end of the campaign providing he stays fit.
He said: "A few years ago they told me he was quite old – he was 33 – and he's still playing, so I don't know [how long he can go on for].
"It's the same with Danny Murphy.
"Every year they gave him another year, but he was 35 and still one of our best players.
"He's a true professional.
"What we will do for him is give him an extension if we feel he can play for another year."
Check out all the latest News, Sport & Celeb gossip at Mirror.co.uk http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-set-extend-damien-duffs-2267175#ixzz2ejxaJv2e (http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-set-extend-damien-duffs-2267175#ixzz2ejxaJv2e)
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Scott In Formation
The Club is delighted to confirm midfielder Scott Parker as the Official Formation Ambassador for the 2013/14 season.
One of our summer signings and already a favourite amongst the Cottage Faithful, Parker is delighted to align himself with our young supporters in our Junior Membership exclusively for 11-15 year olds, now referred to as Formation.
On becoming the Formation Ambassador, Scott Parker said: "Having joined the Club this summer, I'm honoured to have been asked to act as the Formation Ambassador, our exciting new Junior Membership for those between 11-15 years of age.
"I'm pleased to say that the Club has really thought about the next generation of fans and pulled together a membership that we're all proud of, one that young people will hopefully want to join.
"In joining the Formation, there are a number of fantastic benefits to be had, including regular competitions, exclusive events and the chance to win Members-only prizes throughout the season.
"Your child will be the first to know what's happening at Craven Cottage, so the boys and I look forward to seeing them in Formation soon!"
With our young fans the future of Fulham Football Club, Scott's support will ensure that we continue to bring the next generation of supporters closer to the Club with our fantastic Junior Membership.
Take a look at fulhamfc.com/formation for more information, or call the Club on 0843 208 1234 (option 2) and the Ticket Office will be able to help.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/12/scott-in-formation? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/12/scott-in-formation?)
The ROAR return to London
The ROAR of the Jaguars return to London for their 2014 Calendar Launch.
THE ROAR of the Jaguars, the cheerleaders for the Jacksonville Jaguars, are back in London, cheering up the capital and launching their 2014 lingerie calendar which goes on sale this weekend.
Supporting the Jaguars as they play four games at Wembley over the next four years, The ROAR can't wait to get back into the swing of London life - and are kicking off their stay by visiting London Fashion Week, dancing at Fulham Football Club and appearing on London's Choice FM breakfast show with Kojo and Jade bright and early next Monday.
The whole of next week, THE ROAR will also be surprising NFL fans with visits throughout London.
British fans of THE ROAR can catch up with the cheerleaders as they perform at Fulham Football Club's Craven Cottage this weekend. THE ROAR will be dancing at halftime during the Fulham versus West Bromwich Albion match.
Aspiring cheerleaders are also in for a treat. Next week, THE ROAR will launch their search for Junior ROAR from every London borough, with the chance to dance with the world-famous cheerleaders at the Jaguars tailgate party at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, October 27.
Fulham families get an extra special treat this Saturday, with 20 junior cheerleaders winning an early invitation to dance with THE ROAR at Fulham FC's Craven Cottage at halftime, during the Fulham game.
http://www.jaguars.com/news/article-PressRelease/The-ROAR-return-to-London/254a84c4-960c-4b0a-a193-c867ece4a252? (http://www.jaguars.com/news/article-PressRelease/The-ROAR-return-to-London/254a84c4-960c-4b0a-a193-c867ece4a252?)
Cookie Coleman - Getting Better!
One of our former managers, despite recent results, looks safely entrenched in his managerial hot-seat.
Chris 'Cookie` Coleman, looks set to sign a new contract with the Welsh FA, although the recent loss to Serbia was typical of the way results have gone recently.
Speaking about extending his stay in the position Cookie has delightfully commented,
"The more you manage at international level the more you learn. So I do think I will be better next time around."
It does help though if you`re able to select from an unlimited pool of talent as opposed to the rather sparse pools those who manage the home international sides seem to be drawing from these days!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=332032#ixzz2ejyHgLI5 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=332032#ixzz2ejyHgLI5)
Preview: Fulham vs. West Bromwich Albion
Fulham will not have any late summer signings to parade against West Bromwich Albion this weekend, but striker Dimitar Berbatov is still searching for his first goal of the campaign.
The Cottagers got their 2013-14 campaign off to a winning start against Sunderland, but have failed to pick up a point in their last two fixtures before the international break.
Pajtim Kasami and Maarten Stekelenburg could return to the fold at Craven Cottage, while Darren Bent is likely to start up front alongside Berbatov in attack.
At the other end of the pitch, West Brom head coach Steve Clarke could call on his deadline-day signings Victor Anichebe and Stephane Sessegnon following Shane Long's failed move to Hull City.
The Baggies are yet to get their first win of the season following a draw and two defeats, the latest being a 2-0 loss to Swansea City.
Recent form
Fulham: WLL
West Bromwich Albion: LDL
Possible starting lineups
Fulham: Stekelenburg; Riether, Hangeland, Hughes, Riise; Kacaniklic, Sidwell, Parker, Ruiz; Berbatov, Bent
West Bromwich Albion: Myhill; Jones, McAuley, Olsson, Ridgewell; Morrison, Yacob, Mulumbu, Sinclair; Anelka, Anichebe
Sports Mole says: 1-1
http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/preview/preview-fulham-vs-west-brom_104449.html (http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/preview/preview-fulham-vs-west-brom_104449.html)
Fulham vs. West Bromwich Albion – Match Preview
Albion face Fulham in their fourth Premier League fixture of the season on Saturday (3pm Kick-off). This tie is a somewhat significant fixture for Baggies fans as the club have struggled to gain victories at Craven Cottage in recent times. The last West Brom victory on the banks of the River Thames came during the 1967/68 FA Cup winning season, where goals from Albion legends Astle and Brown secured a 2-1 win and sent Albion back to the Black Country with the maximum (pre-1981) 2 points.
Cottagers manager Martin Jol will no doubt be looking to improve on last season's home form. Fulham managed 7 wins from home games and none of those came against any of the teams who finished in the top 7 of the Premier League last term. Fulham gained an average of 1.26 points per game which was below the Premier League average of 1.59 points per match by 0.33 points where you take just home fixtures into account. Albion were in fact the highest placed finishers from last season that the Cottagers managed to beat on home soil (3-0). Albion's away form produced 5 wins and 3 draws last season.
This encounter takes place almost a year to the day since both clubs last met at Craven Cottage. On 15th September 2012 Fulham defeated West Bromwich Albion thanks to Dimitar Berbatov's first two goals for the club and a late strike from Sidwell. The Cottagers were significantly helped that day by the early dismissal of Peter Odemwingie for lashing out at Sascha Riether.
Berbatov netted for The Lilywhites a total of 15 times last season, the closest any of his team-mates came to nearing that figure was 5 league goals (Petric and Ruiz). The 78-cap Bulgarian star has started the season by being one of just three Fulham players to appear in all 270 minutes of Premier League football, he is yet to score and has hit 2 shots at goal with one being on target.
The Baggies stuttering start leaves them with the unfortunate tag of being the only club in English football's top 4 division's yet to score a league goal. In fact Albion have managed just four Premier League shots on target. Jones, Morrison, Long and Yacob have all had efforts saved by opposition goalkeepers. The latter of those players Claudio Yacob is certainly a man who has started the season with a competitive edge. The Argentinian international has racked up a total of 10 successful tackles from 12 attempted and is already well on his way to reaching last season's total of 90 tackles won.
The Throstles new signings will be looking to have a positive impact as Albion look for their first league win of the season, in particular the potential debutants signed on transfer deadline day will look to make their mark. Stephane Sessegnon has played just 117 minutes of Premier League football out of 270 for former club Sunderland this season. During 2012/13 the Benin born flair player scored a club second-highest of 7 league goals and hit 59 shots at goal, no Sunderland player attempted as many shots as Sessegnon.
Team News
Missing for Albion is likely to be James Morrison who has started all three games for the club thus far. Czech Republic international Matej Vydra is also still absent as he is recovering from a hamstring injury. Long term absentees Zoltan Gera, George Throne and Ben Foster will all be unavailable. Fulham are without Kieran Richardson but could see Stekelnburg, Reither and Hughes return to the match day squad following recent injuries.
Referee
Taking charge of this match is experienced Premier League official Lee Probert. In his four fixtures this season (all competitions) he has awarded 8 yellow cards and one red card. Probert's last game in charge of Fulham was their 3-2 win over QPR in Match Day 31 of last season. West Bromwich Albion last saw Probert when he was the man in the middle during their game with Wigan Athletic at The Hawthorns last term, another 3-2 game with Wigan coming out on top.
http://eplindex.com/40087/fulham-west-bromwich-albion-match-preview.html? (http://eplindex.com/40087/fulham-west-bromwich-albion-match-preview.html?)
Fulham v West Bromwich Albion: Five players under the spotlight
Will Fulham or West Brom come out on top?
Fulham need a home win after losing their opening game at Craven Cottage to Arsenal. West Brom are in need of a similar result but will find it difficult to secure a win playing away from home.
They haven't yet found a replacement for Romelu Lukaku's goals and until they do I can see Steve Clarke's team struggling. Fulham will be looking to take advantage of a team devoid of confidence.
There should be goals but Fulham winning by a single goal is a very realistic result. There is no doubt that both teams will be going for a very important three points.
Odds: Fulham 15/13, Draw 15/2, West Brom 11/4
Last meeting
Fulham 3-0 West Brom – Craven Cottage, 15th September 2012
The home side ran out comfortable winners against West Brom in this early season encounter. A brace from Dimitar Berbatov and a late strike from Steve Sidwell put pay to any chances West Brom had of taking anything back to the midlands with them. This was one poor performance amidst a great start to the season for the Baggies.
Five players to watch:
Nicolas Anelka
He may be getting on in age but Anelka can still hurt team in the Premier League, some of his pace may have left him but he still has the finishing ability. After the loss of his agent last month he has returned to the club looking to help them after a poor start to the season, there's no reason why he can't be a success at the Hawthorns.
Adel Taarabt
The enigmatic talent can either give you breath taking skills and goals or a very ineffective anonymous performance, Fulham will be hoping for a good run of performances now that he has reunited with the manager who initially brought him to the Premier League, Martin Jol.
Stéphane Sessègnon
He impressed for Sunderland when he first signed but he fell out of favour over the summer and was eventually sold to West Brom. He can certainly bring some quality to the Baggies' midfield. In the past he has shown the ability to change games with his goals and assists, Steve Clarke will be hoping that he can replicate this form for his side.
Dimitar Berbatov
Whenever the Bulgarian striker plays there is a chance he can create something very special, despite his languid and sometimes lazy style he has the ability for the spectacular. He hasn't found the net this year and his goals will be vital to Fulham's successes this season. Martin Jol usually gets the best out of the former Premier League golden boot winner.
Victor Anichebe
The Nigerian striker never really got an extended run in the Everton side, when he did play he couldn't quite score the number of goals required to be a success as a striker, his finishing often let him down. He may make his West Brom debut after joining the club on deadline day, he will be hoping that a fresh start will give him a new lease of life. He certainly offers something different for West Brom.
http://hereisthecity.com/2013/09/12/fulham-v-west-bromwich-albion/? (http://hereisthecity.com/2013/09/12/fulham-v-west-bromwich-albion/?)
A week that could shape season for West Bromwich Albion
Albion's brace of up and coming Premiership fixtures could easily be billed as 'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral' as Steve Clarke pits his wits against Martin Jol and Paulo Di Canio.
The next two games against Fulham and Sunderland will certainly play a huge part in shaping the Baggies season as we go in search of our first victory in the new campaign.
Steve Clarke's side are now winless in 7 Premiership games, but dig a little deeper and the statistics make uglier reading; since Boxing Day 2012 the Baggies have won 4 out of 22 League games. The slump may have easily set in with the 3-2 defeat against Reading on Saturday, 12th January 2013.
Saturday's visit to Craven Cottage can be seen as a 'six pointer' with the Baggies propping up the Premiership and Fulham perched in 17th position – two points better off than the Baggies, sealing an opening day victory against fellow strugglers Sunderland.
Albion have yet to seal a victory at Craven Cottage in the Premiership failing on 7 attempts with 6 defeats and 1 draw; conceding 19 goals and scoring a meagre 2 goals from Campbell and Tchyoi. Records are there to be broken; and now is certainly the time for Steve Clarke's men to grab the headlines for all the right reasons. It is almost half-a-century since Albion registered an away League win against the Cottagers – goals from Jeff Astle and Tony Brown secured a 2-1 victory on October 7th 1967 in a Division One clash. Fulham were relegated that season.
Steve Clarke should have a transfer deadline day signings – Stephane Sessegnon, Victor Anichebe and Morgan Amalfitano at his disposal for Saturday's clash and will be hoping his side can register their first goal or two of the 2013/2014 campaign. What is more interesting is whether Saido Berahino is likely to make the starting line-up after scoring on his England under-21 debut against Moldova as well as scoring a second half equaliser versus Finland in the European Championship qualifier, earlier this month.
The Baggies will certainly be looking for three valuable points when Sunderland visit the Hawthorns on September 21st. Again, this is a 'six-pointer' and indeed if two victories can be gained from the next two games it will boost the players' confidence for the next set of tough fixtures against Manchester United (away); Arsenal (home); Stoke City (away) and Liverpool (away).
It is imperative the Baggies' strike force find their shooting boots, just like Wyatt Earp used his shooting skills at the Gunfight at O.K. Corral on Wednesday, October 26th, 1881. 76 years later a crowd of 52,839 saw the Baggies victorious against the 'Busby Babes' at the Hawthorns in a thrilling 4-3 victory – Bobby Robson netted twice with Ronnie Allen and Derek Kevan on the score sheet on October 26th, 1957.
To see Steve Clarke's men score 4 goals on their away travels this Saturday in West London would send the Baggies Barmy Army delirious.
Records are there to be broken!
http://www.tamworthherald.co.uk/story-19788695-detail/story.html? (http://www.tamworthherald.co.uk/story-19788695-detail/story.html?)
10 reasons to move to... Fulham
1 It has Fulham Palace, which is the historic home of the Bishops of London. Today the palace has stunning grounds and a museum that houses an art gallery. You can also have lunch in the converted drawing room.
2 Unless you've been living under a rock for the last five years, you might have heard of something called Westfield, which is just down the road and has every shop you will ever need under one gigantic roof.
3 Queen's Tennis Club is in Fulham. It was here Murray kick-started his Wimbledon-winning season, with a victory over Marin Cilic. For a chance to watch top quality tennis without the queues and cost of Wimbledon, this is a great venue.
4 Michelin starred restaurant the Harwood Arms is one of the best gastro-pubs in the country, serving posh versions of classics like Scotch eggs alongside more traditional restaurant cuisine. It is also known for serving great game.
5 It has some of the best parks in London. Bishops Park is a lovely green area running along the river from Putney Bridge to Craven Cottage. It is also home to Hurlingham Park, South Park and Ealbrook Common.
6 It is home to Fulham FC's Craven Cottage stadium, one of the finest Victorian football stadiums in the country. It doesn't matter if you aren't a fan, the stadium has a neutral's end, where you can enjoy the football no matter what your allegiance.
7 Or if you're a Chelsea fan, you're right next to Stamford Bridge, where you can watch Jose Morinho's side try to regain the ground lost during his extended holiday in Madrid. Premier League trophy not guaranteed.
8 The annual Oxford-Cambridge boat race starts in Fulham, so if you live locally, you'll be in with a chance of getting a good spot to watch the action. Putney Bridge fills up early so you will have the jump on the crowd.
9 The White Horse Pub has a reputation as one of the best drinking holes in west London. Dubbed the "Sloaney Pony" has a nice outdoor area and does great burgers on the outdoor grill when the weather isn't too bad.
10 It's on the District Line, which makes getting into the City a doddle. Getting from Fulham Broadway to Mansion House takes 25 minutes without any stops. Fulham Broadway also has disabled access.
- See more at: http://www.cityam.com/article/1379029686/10-reasons-move-fulham?#sthash.tRbi4G7C.dpuf (http://www.cityam.com/article/1379029686/10-reasons-move-fulham?#sthash.tRbi4G7C.dpuf)
West Brom's injury struggles continue ahead of Fulham trip
West Brom head coach Steve Clarke may field his transfer deadline day signings when he takes his injury-ravaged side to Fulham.
Albion have only taken one point from their three Barclays Premier League matches so far but have since acquired Stephane Sessegnon, Victor Anichebe and Morgan Amalfitano.
The game may come too soon for Anichebe, who lacks match fitness, but fellow forward Sessegnon and midfielder Amalfitano have a good chance of starting. Midfielder James Morrison (groin) is a doubt while goalkeeper Ben Foster (foot) and striker Matej Vydra (hamstring) are definitely missing. Steven Reid, Zoltan Gera and George Thorne are still working their way back to full fitness.
Provisional squad: Myhill, Daniels, Olsson, Popov, Ridgewell, Lugano, McAuley, Dawson, Jones, Yacob, Morrison, Brunt, Dorrans, Sinclair, Amalfitano, Mulumbu, Long, Anichebe, Sessegnon, Rosenberg, Berahino, Anelka.
http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/west_brom_s_injury_struggles_continue_ahead_of_fulham_trip_1_2451622 (http://www.london24.com/sport/fulham/west_brom_s_injury_struggles_continue_ahead_of_fulham_trip_1_2451622)
Premier League: Fulham v West Brom match preview
A look ahead to this weekend's Premier League fixture at Craven Cottage
With two defeats from three games, Fulham and West Brom have experienced similar starts to this campaign. Steve Clarke's side, perhaps suffering from the departure of Chelsea loanee Romelu Lukaku, sit below Cardiff and at the foot of the table. Only goal difference, meanwhile, keeps the Cottagers above the relegation zone.
Aaron Hughes is a doubt for Fulham after a thigh problem saw him withdrawn from Northern Ireland's squad in midweek. Goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg could return after being forced off with a shoulder injury on his debut last month, although Kieran Richardson, injured in the same match, is still ruled out.
Zoltan Gera and Steven Reid, although back in training for West Brom, are unlikely to return to the starting line-up. James Morrison, too, is a doubt, and loan signing Matej Vydra will be sidelined for a second game.
KICK-OFF: Saturday, 3pm
PAST THREE MEETINGS...
West Brom 1 (Lukaku), Fulham 2 (Berbatov, Kacaniklic), Premier League, January 2013
Fulham 3 (Berbatov 2, Sidwell), West Brom 0, Premier League, September 2012
Fulham 1 (Dempsey) West Brom 1 (Tchoy), Premier League, February 2012
STATS...
David Stockdale has made more saves than any other goalkeeper in the league (14).
West Brom are the only team in the top flight without a goal this season.
Fulham have lost their past five Premier League home games, conceding 14 goals.
ODDS...
Fulham to win: 2.15
West Brom to win: 3.4
Draw: 3.4
TV: Highlights on BBC1 at 10:30pm
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/premier-league-fulham-v-west-brom-match-preview-8812844.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/premier-league-fulham-v-west-brom-match-preview-8812844.html)
Villains and Saints promote youth as Hammers and Fulham help the aged
If you win nothing with kids then Aston Villa and Southampton will win nothing – but their fans might appreciate they are trying to succeed with promising young players.
There's a huge contrast in the age of Premier League starting line-ups so far this season, from nippers Aston Villa (average 24.7 years) and Southampton (24.9) to oldies Fulham (30.2 years) and West Ham (29.1).
The youngest top-flight line-up in England this season was the Villa side who met Liverpool and lost by a single goal to a tean that was almost three years older per player.
It should be noted that Liverpool – so far – have an age profile this season most likely to deliver the title.
Why? Because it is typical that a title-winning team in Europe's 'Big 5′ divisions will average 27 years old, give or take a few months. Last season, United's title winners had an average age of 26.76 years. Barcelona's title winners in Spain had an average age of 26.73 years. PSG's title winners in France averaged 26.87 years. Bayern's title winners in Germany averaged 26.2 years and Juventus's title winners in Italy averaged 27.7 years.
With a long way to go and many changes to come (caveat, caveat), Liverpool's age profile at 26.9 years on average is looking better than too-young teams at Spurs and Arsenal and too-old teams at Man City, Chelsea and Man Utd.
Remarkably, the 21 different players chosen by Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert (on the pitch or the bench) for Villa's opening three games have all been 28 years old or younger.
Southampton meanwhile have been promoting teenagers. Only six teenagers have started Premier League games this season and three of them have been in Southampton colours, with Luke Shaw, 18 in July, being the youngest.
At the other end of the age spectrum Fulham have already used 17 different players in their three starting line-ups (no other club has used so many) and 11 of them have already celebrated their 30th birthday.
Elsewhere Ryan Giggs (40 in November) and Jussi Jaaskelainen (38 last April) are the Premier League's most senior starters this season. Indeed when Luke Shaw was born, Giggs had already played five seasons for Manchester United, chalking up 148 league appearances and scoring 28 goals.
The graphic below gives each club's average ages this season.
(http://www.sportingintelligence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Youth-age-matters-PL-Sep13.jpg)
... and another thing
There's no easy way of saying this: the Premier League is suffering a goals drought.
Up to the start of this season, 766 August games had been played in the 21 completed seasons of Premier League football, yielding 1,954 goals at a rate of 2.55 goals per game.
This season the 27 August games yielded a pitiful 54 goals at exactly two goals a game – a shortfall of more than 20 per cent on the all-time average figure.
Not only that: this slump comes at a time when the last three seasons have seen goals being netted at record rates. Only once before, in August 1998, have Premier League goals been in shorter supply at the start of a campaign. Then 29 games saw only 51 goals scored.
(http://www.sportingintelligence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/PL-goals-in-August.jpg)
Part of the cause of this season's slump has been the apparent resurgence of the 1-0 score line, and that almost certainly came about as a direct result of Sod's Law after we wrote in August that the 1-0 score line was definitely on the wane.
We reported at the outset of the season how 1-0 has given way to the 2-1 result in recent years. Then what? Ten of the 27 August games were settled by the single goal and only two games stretched to 2-1. Pah!
And September has started no better for those who have been enjoying the Premier League goal feast of recent times. The three games played on the first day of September yielded a total of four goals and included two more of those 1-0 score lines.
http://www.sportingintelligence.com/2013/09/13/villains-and-saints-promote-youth-as-hammers-and-fulham-help-the-aged-130901/? (http://www.sportingintelligence.com/2013/09/13/villains-and-saints-promote-youth-as-hammers-and-fulham-help-the-aged-130901/?)
FFC To Defend Dallas Cup
The Club is proud to announce that Fulham's Under-19s will defend their Dr Pepper Dallas Cup title in April 2014.
It will be the Club's second consecutive involvement in the Dallas Cup, after our success last season, and we will become the fourth-straight Premier Academy League champion to headline the Gordon Jago Super Group.
The Whites' upcoming trip to Dallas Cup XXXV continues the long standing relationship between the tournament and the English Premier League, giving the U.S. fans an opportunity to see the future stars of soccer.
"We are really looking forward to returning to the XXXV Dr Pepper Dallas Cup," said Fulham FC Academy Director, Huw Jennings. "We had a fantastic experience earlier in the year which was capped by winning the Gordon Jago Super Group. The players and staff want to demonstrate that that success was not a one off and that we can reproduce the standard that we showed then."
In March, Fulham's U19s defeated Japanese side Kashiwa Reysol 5-1 to become the first English side to win the prestigious Gordon Jago Super Group since Liverpool were crowned champions in 2008. Two months later, Fulham claimed its second consecutive Barclays Under-18 Premier League trophy by defeating Reading 3-0.
"The Dr Pepper Dallas Cup has a long and proud history of bringing in the best teams from around the world," said Dr Pepper Dallas Cup Executive Director, Andy Swift. "We are excited to have our defending champions return as they try to become the first Gordon Jago Super Group team to repeat since Club Atletico Paranaense were crowned champions in 2004 and 2005."
Key contributors in their championship run, George Williams, Cameron Burgess, Solomon Sambou and Emerson Hyndman, are expected to return. Hyndman, grandson of FC Dallas Head Coach, Schellas Hyndman, will be playing in his fourth Dallas Cup championship, having been previously part of two Dallas Texans championship teams.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/13/ffc-to-defend-dallas-cup? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/13/ffc-to-defend-dallas-cup?)
Steve Sidwell's backing Fulham to stop the rot
Steve Sidwell is confident Fulham will get back to winning ways this weekend.
Martin Jol's side beat Sunderland on the opening day of the season but lost against Arsenal and Newcastle before the international break.
Fulham face West Brom at Craven Cottage tomorrow and midfielder Sidwell (above) said: "We have been a bit frustrated with the start that we have made but there is plenty of football ahead of us. We can play better and we will.
"I said at the start of the summer that last season was a transitional one for us. Now it is all about moving on and establishing ourselves as a top-10 team.
"We have the potential to have a really good season. We have a strong squad that looks very competitive."
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/steve-sidwells-backing-fulham-to-stop-the-rot-8814268.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/steve-sidwells-backing-fulham-to-stop-the-rot-8814268.html)
Stocko Keen On Consistency
Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale is keen to take his chance in the spotlight and prove that he can play consistently at the highest level.
Stockdale has been handed a starting place after the injury to Maarten Stekelenburg against Sunderland in the first game of the Barclays Premier League season and has made the most saves in the division to date (14). However, the stopper wants to make the most of his time as first choice and hopes he can continue to provide tough competition for Stekelenburg when the Dutchman returns.
"This is my sixth year here and I was behind a very good goalkeeper for five years in Mark Schwarzer and now the Club has brought in another very good 'keeper," he said. "The Club has kept me here for a reason and hopefully it's because I work hard and I want to be the best that I can be.
"I keep my head down and hopefully I can fight for the number one spot. I'm just trying to use these games as a point proving exercise; I must show people that I can perform at a consistent level and that I am capable of doing it week in, week out."
With Stekelenburg's arrival this summer, and Philippines international Neil Etheridge also fighting for a place in the side, the Club has a wealth of goalkeeping options, but that does not faze Stockdale.
"Whenever Maarten comes back, hopefully it's a speedy recovery because he's a good guy and it was an unfortunate incident when he was having a good game," he said. "I welcome the competition and if I keep the jersey, I need to work harder than him to keep it.
"Maarten, Neil and I get on really well with each other. We have games, two touch, and unfortunately they can't beat me in that! If one goalkeeper is doing well, a bit of credit has to go to the other goalkeepers for the competition. We have a healthy goalkeeping position at this Club and we're quite lucky - going down quite far, I'm thinking Jesse [Joronen], he plays for Finland Under-21s and he's fifth choice at the Club so we've got some good goalkeepers here."
With a number of successful loan spells behind him, Stockdale admits the best experience has been learning from a goalkeeper like Schwarzer before he moved to Chelsea this summer.
"You try to mould yourself on goalkeepers like him because he's in fantastic shape for a 40-year-old and you kind of forget when you see him play that he's been unbelievable for Fulham for five seasons," he added. "All credit to him, he wanted to move on to a new challenge and I wish him all the best and thank him for everything I've learned from him which can hopefully keep me going until I'm his age.
"I've played in every league in England now; I always try to tell the younger players to work hard because you never know what's around the corner. I'm thankful that I can come into training every day with a smile on my face. It's a great place to come in and train, the people around here are excellent and we are very lucky to be in the position that we are."
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/13/stocko-keen-on-consistency? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/13/stocko-keen-on-consistency?)
West Brom Sold Out
Tickets for this weekend's match against West Bromwich Albion are now sold out! Supporters are advised to check other options to secure a seat at the Cottage.
You can still upgrade to a Matchday Hospitality package from just £95! Find out more here.
Season Ticket Holders and Members also have access to our Official Ticket Marketplace, viagogo, where they can buy tickets from other Season Ticket Holders and Members.
Alternatively, we've held a limited number of seats for this game for new Season Ticket Holders. Call 0843 208 1234 today to secure your place at all of our remaining home games in the Barclays Premier League this season.
To make sure you don't miss out on tickets for future matches, sign up to become a Fulham Member and enjoy ticket priority to all the big games this season. Prices start from £20 adults and £5 juniors. Find out more at fulhamfc.com/membership
Inside the Opposition
Founded in 1878, West Brom is one of the oldest clubs in the English league and was one of the founding members of the Football League in 1888. Since reappearing back in the top flight in 2002 after a period of 16 years away, it has remained there for seven seasons and was last relegated in 2008/09.
A hugely successful side in its infancy, the Baggies did well under Fred Everiss and won its first ever title in 1919/20. It had already claimed two FA Cup trophies in 1888 and 1892, before picking up three more later on in 1931, 1954 and 1968. Albion also managed to win the League Cup at its first attempt under Jimmy Hagan in 1966, but has never repeated the feat.
Out of the top flight from 1986 to 2002, the arrival of Gary Megson saw an upturn in their fortunes and a place in the Premiership was sealed and, even though they were relegated that season, they bounced straight up. Under Bryan Robson in 2004/05, it became the first club to avoid relegation having been bottom of the table at Christmas but yo-yoed between the Championship and top flight for the next few years, eventually finding stability under former Fulham manager Roy Hodgson. Now managed by Steve Clarke, the club finished 8th in the table last season.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/13/west-brom-sold-out? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/13/west-brom-sold-out?)
Fulham v West Brom: Out of form pairing's woes to continue
Baggies have yet to score, while the Cottagers have lost their last five on home soil
Those hoping for an entertaining goalfest may want to avoid this one. Both teams have netted in just three of the previous eight encounters so selecting the 'no' option in the both teams to score market at evens should generate a return by the Thames.
West Brom enjoyed their greatest ever start to a Premier League season last year but a failure to win at Craven Cottage in this clash will see the Baggies equal their worst ever return from their opening four fixtures.
Steve Clarke's men travel to a ground where they have failed to register a victory on their last six visits, losing on five occasions.
The Midlands club also harbour an unimpressive record in the capital, winning on just four of their previous 39 jaunts to the city and they are 11/10 to be defeated once again by a London club when they face Fulham here.
The visitors have yet to notch a single goal in league competition and they are 9/5 to draw a blank in this one and become the first team since Swansea in 2011/12 to embark on a goalless run of four matches.
The Midlands outfit will, however, be boosted by their opponents dismal form.
The Cottagers have taken a mere seven points from their preceding 11 top flight games, securing the maximum return in two.
Martin Jol's side have also displayed frailties on their own patch in recent times, losing five on the spin, their longest run in their tenure at the summit, which could entice those favouring an away success at 5/2.
With two teams performing poorly and both struggling to register a win, the draw will undoubtedly gather real attention at 23/10.
Two of the last four between the duo have resulted in a stalemate and with just two goals between them a 0-0 scoreline appeals at 10/1, while getting behind fewer than 1.5 strikes at 12/5 is wise.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league/fulham-v-west-brom-out-of-form-pairings-woes-to-continue_171738.html (http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/football/premier-league/fulham-v-west-brom-out-of-form-pairings-woes-to-continue_171738.html)
Fulham v West Brom
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/69825000/jpg/_69825637_berbatov.jpg)
By Steve Bower
BBC Match of the Day commentator
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Saturday, 14 September
Fulham goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg could return after suffering a shoulder injury on his debut last month.
Aaron Hughes is a doubt with a thigh problem that saw him withdraw from Northern Ireland's squad in midweek, and Kieran Richardson is still out.
New West Brom signings Stephane Sessegnon and Morgan Amalfitano could well start, though Victor Anichebe lacks match fitness.
Midfielder James Morrison (groin) is a doubt.
MATCH PREVIEW
Even at this early stage, these two clubs will see this as a fixture for a potential welcome lift. This season is yet to ignite for either, after sluggish endings to the last campaign. Fulham have only won twice in their last 11 league matches and West Brom just once in their previous 12.
Three of Fulham's next four matches are at Craven Cottage, with Cardiff and Stoke following West Brom's visit. Those are the type of games Martin Jol will know he needs to get points from, to build a base to improve on last season's 12th place finish. His team have lost their last five Premier League matches at home and that needs to be addressed.
He'll hope Dimitar Berbatov can recapture some of his finer moments from last season, where he scored three times in two matches against the Baggies, and that Darren Bent can build on his debut goal against Arsenal.
The Fulham manager comes up against the club he played for 79 times, having only lost once to them in 10 meetings as a manager.
His opposite number Steve Clarke returns to the ground where he suffered his first managerial defeat a year ago. His business on deadline day was necessary and he'll be quietly desperate for his new boys to hit the ground running to help them to a first goal and victory of the season.
New club record signing Stephane Sessegnon has the potential to really improve the team's goal threat. Victor Anichebe, like Scott Sinclair, will feel he has a point to prove while with Long still at the club, more to come from Anelka and the emerging talent of Berahino, they collectively have to replace the 17 league goals that Romelu Lukaku scored last season.
West Brom's last league win at Fulham came in 1967. An end to that run, would help them begin to look forward again.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Fulham are unbeaten against West Brom in their past five matches, which have all been in the Premier League (W3, D2).
West Brom have never won at Fulham in the Premier League (in seven attempts).
The Baggies last won a league match at Craven Cottage in October 1967 (a 2-1 win). However, they did beat Fulham in west London in the 2005 League Cup sixth round - 3-2 after extra time.
Fulham
The Cottagers have lost seven of their last nine Premier League matches.
They have the same record after three games as they did last season (won one, lost two) - but had scored seven last term, compared to just twice this time around.
Darren Bent is the eighth player to score for six different clubs in the Premier League. The others are Nick Barmby, Marcus Bent, Craig Bellamy, Andy Cole, Peter Crouch, Les Ferdinand and Robbie Keane.
West Brom
West Brom remain winless in seven Premier League matches and failed to score in their opening three top-flight matches of the season for the first time since 1972-73.
The Baggies claimed 33 of 49 points in the first half of the 2012-13 season, but since then have taken just 17 points from 22 games (including this season).
Steve Clarke's side have had just four shots on target in their opening three games.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23999576? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23999576?)
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/69805000/jpg/_69805582_fulham-west-brom.jpg)
Fulham v West Brom
Martin Jol doesn't know his best team yet and, like a lot of clubs just after the transfer window, Fulham are still finding their way. But they are usually good at home and they have plenty of attacking players who can cause teams trouble.
They got a good win at Sunderland on the opening day but have struggled to fire since then, so maybe it is a case of choosing who partners Dimitar Berbatov while making sure they still have some defensive balance in the side.
West Brom have had a poor start, but they recognised that and have added forwards Stephane Sessegnon from Sunderland and Victor Anichebe from Everton, so Steve Clarke will hope that has addressed their problems going forward.
I think Sessegnon is a really good player. I don't know what happened to him at Sunderland - maybe he is a player who needs to be loved.
He can be the link between midfield and the striker, he makes things happen. He is a very talented lad and he will do well at Albion, I'm sure.
Prediction: 2-0
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24063093 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24063093)
Striker reveals he turned down West Ham, Fulham, Stoke and Swansea
Peter Odemwingie claims he turned down a number of Premier League clubs before signing for Cardiff City in a £2.25million deal on transfer deadline day.
The Nigeria hitman fell badly out of favour at former club West Brom after attempting to force through a move to QPR in January.
Odemwingie is delighted to have now joined Cardiff and the 32-year-old says he also had interest from London duo West Ham and Fulham as well as Stoke City and Swansea City.
"The Cardiff fans have been great. People I've met have welcomed me and I know the great atmosphere they create," he said in a press conference.
"There was interest from West Ham, Fulham, Stoke and Swansea but I chose Cardiff as it was the best place for my family and I.
"I told my wife yesterday that what I see in this squad is stronger than West Brom."
http://www.london24.com/sport/west-ham/striker_reveals_he_turned_down_west_ham_fulham_stoke_and_swansea_1_2457576 (http://www.london24.com/sport/west-ham/striker_reveals_he_turned_down_west_ham_fulham_stoke_and_swansea_1_2457576)
