Ruiz ready for Fulham return
by DAN on SEPTEMBER 25, 2013
(http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Bryan+Ruiz+Chelsea+v+Fulham+Carling+Cup+Third+fbeiOnOzdPtl.jpg)
Martin Jol believes Bryan Ruiz will be fit enough to return to action in Fulham's home game against Cardiff City on Saturday.
The Fulham manager opted not to include Ruiz in his side for last night's Capital One Cup win over Everton as he wasn't quite fit enough following his recovery from an ankle injury he picked up in the closing stages of the 1-1 draw with West Brom twelve days ago. Jol is hopeful, however, that the Costa Rican international will be fit for the crucial game against Cardiff as Fulham search for the victory that would propel them out of the relegation zone.
It was a risk to involve him, that's why I played Kasami. Kieran Richardson was rested and Aaron Hughes wasn't 100% fit.
Dimitar Berbatov, who made a goalscoring return to the side after missing the derby defeat to Chelsea at the weekend, should start up but the real question will be whether Jol chooses to pair Darren Bent, who grabbed the winner against Everton shortly after coming off the bench, with the Bulgarian up front.
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/09/ruiz-ready-for-fulham-return/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/09/ruiz-ready-for-fulham-return/?)
Analysing David Stockdale's late save for Fulham last night
How much did Fulham need this?
It's only the league cup, and if they don't use the momentum from last night's win to spark their Premier League form then it really counts for nothing, but this could potentially be turning point for Martin Jol and his players.
It could have been a much longer night, though, had David Stockdale's legs not kept-out Seamus Coleman's late attempt.
(http://thepremierleagueowl.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Screen-Shot-2013-09-25-at-09.17.28.png)
In terms of an actual save, this isn't particularly memorable, but what makes it impressive is the distance Stockdale makes-up and how quickly he does it. At the point above, Seamus Coleman has to score, and the camera angle really doesn't do justice to how much of the goal is actually exposed.
(http://thepremierleagueowl.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Screen-Shot-2013-09-25-at-09.19.27.png)
Yes, Coleman should have equalised, but he doesn't do that much wrong – how many times do we see players going back across a goalkeeper and scoring in situations just like this? The shot is really close to him, but Stockdale has recovered that position and don't underestimate how tough that it is to do – goalkeepers work at this all the time in training: getting-up, making ground, make the save. Whoever Fulham's goalkeeping coach is has earned his money this week.
...and, while it looks easy, making a save with your feet when moving in the opposite direction is actually quite tricky. This will be remembered as a spurned opportunity, and even though that's true it's still an excellent bit of goalkeeping.
http://thepremierleagueowl.com/analysing-david-stockdales-late-save-for-fulham-last-night/ (http://thepremierleagueowl.com/analysing-david-stockdales-late-save-for-fulham-last-night/)
Bents Delight
Darren Bent praised Fulham's character after the Whites came from behind to defeat Everton 2-1 in Round Three of the Capital One Cup on Tuesday night.
Trailing 1-0 at the break after Steven Naismith's strike, the Whites were a different proposition in the second half and goals from Dimitar Berbatov and substitute Bent saw Fulham through to the next round.
"I thought it was a positive performance," Bent told the official website. "It was a hard game – you know what you're going to get when you play against Everton. They're a strong side and always make it difficult but I thought we showed character to come back from 1-0 down and get the result.
"The second half was probably the best we've played this season. In the first half we weren't poor but Everton did well and put us under pressure. Second half, we got to grips with them, created chances and scored two goals. There was really only one stage at the end where Stocky [David Stockdale] prevented it from being 2-2.
"We defended really well and I felt that would give us a chance at the other end on the counter. I thought we thoroughly deserved the win."
Following his introduction from the bench in the 65th minute, Bent made an almost immediate impact. After Scott Parker had won a free-kick , Giorgos Karagounis deceived everyone by feeding Bent down the left, with the England man firing past Joel Robles.
"I've come in and want to play games and score as many goals as possible," stated Bent. "It was nice to come on and pop one in after the Chelsea game where I had a chance but Petr Cech saved it. It was good to get a chance and take it.
"I hadn't discussed it with Giorgos; I just had a look at the situation, he gave me the ball and I got a shot at goal and it managed to go in."
The win sets the Whites up nicely for the visit of Cardiff City on Saturday as Martin Jol's side look to move on up the Barclays Premier League table.
"There's no reason why we can't go on and have a really good season," stated Bent. "We'll take great confidence from that performance and now it's all about Cardiff on Saturday.
"You never want to go into a home game having lost your last one so we've got the win and we go from there."
Make sure you're at the Cottage to cheer on the boys again this weekend against Cardiff. Tickets are on sale now from £35 adults and £15 juniors. Find out more here.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/25/bents-delight? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/25/bents-delight?)
Martin Jol targets Premier League run with Fulham following Capital One Cup victory over Everton
The Cottagers advanced to the fourth round for the first time since 2004
Martin Jol hopes Fulham will start climbing the Barclays Premier League table after they ended their six-month wait for a home win by beating Everton.
Second-half goals from Dimitar Berbatov and Darren Bent gave Fulham a 2-1 victory over Everton in the third round of the Capital One Cup on Tuesday night.
It was Fulham's first victory inside 90 minutes since their opening-day win over Sunderland and it came after a wretched run of five defeats and one draw in the club's previous six home games.
Fulham's poor early-season form means they are in the Premier League relegation zone, but Jol hopes the win will give his team the boost they need to start moving away from trouble.
"It is a relief to win because it is a long time since Sunderland," Jol said.
"I think if you look at our programme, we had three away games and two of them were against Arsenal and Chelsea so we were probably fortunate to get one away win against Sunderland.
"If the mentality stays the same as it was tonight then we have two home games (against Cardiff and Stoke) coming up now so hopefully we can get back in the other half of the table."
Berbatov slotted a loose ball in the box past Joel Robles to cancel out Steven Naismith's opener before Bent grabbed the winner less than three minutes after coming off the bench in the second half.
Everton had looked set to stroll to victory after dominating a first half in which Gerard Deulofeu, Romelu Lukaku and Steven Naismith all starred.
But after being booed off at half-time Fulham responded well with experienced heads like that of 32-year-old Scott Parker proving vital.
"The goal they scored was a hammer blow, everyone was thinking 'there we go again'," Jol said.
"But people like Scott Parker are a big influence, I am happy he's here.
"He's a leader. Of course there are other experienced players, but I'm very happy with his influence.
"He comes from another club, and he tells the players if we're doing okay, or if we need more goals, or to be a bit more clever.
"That's what he adds to us."
Roberto Martinez was mystified as to how his team did not kill the match off when they dominated the first half.
"We had two or three great opportunities, but couldn't take advantage so that's a disappointment," the Everton manager said.
"We lacked a bit of composure in the final third and that cost us.
"There are many things we need to learn form it."
One crumb of comfort for Martinez was the performance of Barcelona loanee Deulofeu, who caused Fulham's defence problems all night with his skill and pace.
"He's a real threat," the Spaniard added.
"His play deserved more goals in the first half, and that would have been the difference."
PA
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/martin-jol-targets-premier-league-run-with-fulham-following-capital-one-cup-victory-over-everton-8838620.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/martin-jol-targets-premier-league-run-with-fulham-following-capital-one-cup-victory-over-everton-8838620.html)
Fulham 2-1 Everton: Player ratings
by DAN on SEPTEMBER 25, 2013
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/70103000/jpg/_70103295_70101875.jpg)
This was a tense evening at Craven Cottage. Fulham were laboured, pedestrian and predictable in the first period and afforded Everton's adventurous midfield far too much space, which they exploited to great effect through Steven Naismith's intelligent runs across the back line. But, just as you thought you'd seen this movie far too many times in recent weeks, Martin Jol's side responded with a high-tempo second half, full of pace, passion and a hatful of chances. Far from being shot-shy, Fulham had 23 attempts at goal last night – and that new-found forward momentum should serve them well in three upcoming crucial league fixtures – against Cardiff, Stoke and Crystal Palace.
Stockdale: A solid display from the Fulham goalkeeper after the disappointment of conceding that sloppy first goal at Stamford Bridge. Made a smart save from Naismith prior to the Everton goal and produced two brilliant stops with his legs late on to deny Coleman and Lukaku splendidly to preserve Fulham's advantage. 7
Zverotic: This was an eye-catching debut from Fulham's new Montenegrin signing. Although most comfortable as a defensive midfielder, Zverotic's versatility means he can cover several positions and he certainly didn't look out of place at right back. Defensively solid against the impressive Naismith, Zverotic was comfortable on the ball and eager to come forward. He sent over a dangerous early cross for Berbatov and often supplemented the attack superbly. On this evidence, there's now some welcome competition for Sascha Riether. 8
Senderos: Offered a first-team chance after Jol opted to rest Fernando Amorebieta, Senderos was dependable enough but at times struggled against the pace and physicality of Romelu Lukaku. Made a couple of timely blocks and clearances as Fulham came under pressure in the closing stages. 6
Hangeland: This must be pretty close to Hangeland's best display of the season. Commanding the air and composed on the ball, the Fulham captain's reading of the game was first class. He rescued his side from danger several times, making one outstanding last-ditch saving tackle to end a dangerous Deufoleu run and eventually managed to nullify Lukaku's threat. 7
Riise: His struggles against the pace and inventiveness of Deufoleu showed just why Riise's slipped so far down the pecking order in recent months. The Norwegian veteran seemed reluctant to close down Deufoleu and when he did the on-loan Barcelona winger simply danced past him. The assured nature with which he raided forward seems to be a thing of the past too and his only real attacking combination, a hopeful shot from the edge of the box that flew high into the Putney End smacked of desperation. 5
Karagounis: The Greek veteran got some game time and delivered an accomplished performance anchoring the midfield. Strong in the tackle as usual, showed for the ball regularly, kept possession well and as Taarabt drifted infield, took up some promising positions on the left. A clever bit of improvisation from the free-kick gave Bent a shooting chance for the winner and he came through the final ninety minutes unscathed. 7
Parker: He might have played Naismith onside in a desperate attempt to provide some cover for the defence, but barring that blemish, Parker was excellent last night. His organisation and leadership qualities, mopping up in midfield, came into their own during a disappointing first half and he was quite happy to carry the ball forward too. With every game, he looks an excellent addition – and should he stay fit, Parker will have a defining impact on our season. 7
Kacaniklic: Playing him from the right didn't really work. Eager to cut inside onto his favoured left foot, the Swede was easily marshalled by Everton's defence. Took up some good positions infield but too Fulham failed to find him in the first half. Had a powerful shot tipped wide by Robles as the Whites pressed for an equaliser at the start of the second half and looked far more effective in his natural left-wing position once Taraabt had been substituted. 6
Taraabt: Struggled to impose himself on the game from the left. Full of tricks and eager running, but his end product amounted to little. Fed a few clever passes into Berbatov's feet, but couldn't get beyond the central striker, which is where you feel he'll be most effective. Faded badly before being replaced – and you feel he'd be much more regular threat to defences if deployed just behind the striker. 6
Kasami: Followed on from an impressive display at Stamford Bridge with a high-octane performance, showing the level of maturity and inventiveness that had everyone so excited two summers ago when he arrived at Craven Cottage. Very industrious, he became far more involved in the second half, driving forward to great effect and sending over some dangerous crosses. Will be very interesting to see whether he keeps his place against Cardiff come Saturday. 7
Berbatov: Quiet in the first half, but so eager to influence proceedings he often dropped deep to show for the ball. Perhaps should have done better with his two headers, the first when he arched his back to reach an inviting Zverotic cross and the second inside the six-yard box from a corner. Showed his predatory instincts to pounce when Coleman's tackle on Taraabt brought the ball his way to equalise and complimented Bent well in the closing stages. 7
Subs:
Amorebieta: Has been really impressive coming off the bench to offer an attacking option at left back in the last two home matches. Quickly let Deufoleu know he was around with a crunching tackle by the touchline, which saw the Everton winger switch flanks, and gave Fulham far more going forward than Riise had. Delivered a couple of excellent crosses – and might be considered as a serious option at full-back now. 7
Bent: Made his mark on proceedings almost immediately with an instinctive finish from Karagounis' quickly-taken free-kick. His pace offered a threat in behind the Everton back-line that Fulham had previously lacked, although he still looks some way short of his sharpest. Jol spoke afterwards about the need to 'integrate' him more, so a switch in system to pair Bent with Berbatov could be on the cards. 7
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/09/fulham-2-1-everton-player-ratings/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/09/fulham-2-1-everton-player-ratings/?)
Jol throws down the gauntlet to Fulham young gun
(http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/fulhamchronicle/sep2012/0/6/buomesca-tue-na-banga-image-2-319611255.jpg)
Buomesca Tue Na Banga
MARTIN Jol will give Boumesca Tue Na Bangna until January to force his way into Fulham's first team – or send him out on loan.
The Portuguese winger made his debut as a second-half substitute in Saturday's derby defeat at Chelsea.
Mesca, who signed a new long-term deal in April, has leapfrogged Iranian international Ashkan Dejagah in the queue for Fulham's right-wing spot.
And boss Jol has challenged the 20-year-old to fight it out with Bryan Ruiz and Damien Duff for a regular place in the side.
"I told Mesca if he starts scoring goals and giving us assists he could be the number one," said the Dutch manager.
"I will wait until January [to loan him out] because he's in contention for the first team."
Read more: Fulham Chronicle http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/fulham-fc/2013/09/25/82029-33884805/?#ixzz2fyrrWkEZ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/fulham-fc/2013/09/25/82029-33884805/?#ixzz2fyrrWkEZ)
'Take a sledgehammer to it!' - fans welcome images released by Fulham confirming Michael Jackson statue is history
(http://www.standard.co.uk/incoming/article8838794.ece/ALTERNATES/w620/2509fulhamjackson.jpg)
He's out of my life: The Michael Jackson statue bows out of Craven Cottage
Fulham today posted images of their much-maligned Michael Jackson statue being wheeled away - much to the delight of supporters.
The West London club confirmed last week that the controversial installation which was erected at Craven Cottage in 2009, would be returned to former owner Mohamed Fayed.
The sculpture of the late pop singer was deemed inappropriate for the ground's new Riverside development plans by new owner Shahid Khan who bought the club for £150m this summer.
Fulham fans reacted positively to the images posted by the club on Twitter and Instagram. One supporter responded: 'Take a sledgehammer to it!' while another tweeted: 'This makes me so happy.'
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/take-a-sledgehammer-to-it--fans-welcome-images-released-by-fulham-confirming-michael-jackson-statue-is-history-8838857.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/take-a-sledgehammer-to-it--fans-welcome-images-released-by-fulham-confirming-michael-jackson-statue-is-history-8838857.html)
Kacaniklic: Comeback win was for Jol
by DAN on SEPTEMBER 25, 2013
(http://img.thesun.co.uk/aidemitlum/archive/01619/alex_1619223a.jpg)
Alex Kacaniklic dedidcated Fulham's stirring Capital One Cup comeback against Everton to under-pressure manager Martin Jol.
The Swedish winger, who was given his first taste of Premier League football by Jol two years ago, told the media that the Fulham manager didn't deserve the boos he had to endure after West Brom's late equaliser twelve days ago and believes the Whites can get their season back on track after a shaky start. Asked whether the criticism of Jol is fair, Kacaniklic had a succint answer:
No, not really. The West Brom game we should have won and were really unlucky, Newcastle we were unlucky. We wanted to win for the manager. He is always encouraging us so we are really happy for him and the team.
We are close. He is always out on the training pitch with us and wants to get involved. He is great. Everyone has got their own style but, as a player, you want to be able to speak to the manager and have confidence that you can speak to him.
Kacaniklic was delighted that Fulham had reached the fourth round for the first time in five years, especially after they had gone behind early to Steven Naismith's smart finish.
It was a real team effort to win the game. It hasn't be going for us in the league, we have played well but we haven't taken the points. We worked really hard, played as a team and took our chances. Everton are a very good side and have started really well under Roberto Martinez.
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/09/kacaniklic-comeback-win-was-for-jol/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2013/09/kacaniklic-comeback-win-was-for-jol/?)
Michael Jackson is HIStory: Controversial statue removed from Fulham stadium Craven Cottage
The tribute to the late singer was not well loved
When he took a stroll on the pitch at Craven Cottage in 1999 it was a Thriller for the fans. When a statue was erected at Fulham's stadium many said it was Bad. And now it would seem Michael Jackson's relationship with Fulham is HIStory.
Pictures have emerged today that appear to show workmen removing the tribute that was installed by former Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed.
It was revealed earlier this month that the statue, which was commissioned after the singer's death in 2009, would no longer be homed in SW6. It's understood it will be returned to Al Fayed.
It was installed in 2011 to commemorate the singer who Fayed insisted was a fan of the Thames side team (despite only being spotted at Craven Cottage once, for the Division Two game against Wigan Athletic in 1999).
However, the decision to install it at the back of the Hammersmith Stand inside the grounds of Craven Cottage was met with ridicule by many supporters.
Fayed paid little attention, telling anyone who didn't like the statue, which includes an inscription from Dickson Etuhu and Jackson lyrics, to "go to hell".
Not all Fulham fans disliked the tribute though, with some seeing the entertaining and eccentric side to its instalment.
A Fulham spokesperson said recently: "The statue is not part of the Riverside development of the stadium and will be returned to the former chairman in due course."
When Al Fayed sold Fulham to Shahid Khan, the Egyptian warned he would cut off the moustache of the new owner should it be removed. Fulham fans must wait to see if he comes good on his promise.
Al Fayed's successor defended the decision to remove the statue last week.
"Our supporters' views on the statue have been made clear," Khan said.
"I respect Mr Al Fayed and know he had good intentions in paying an individual tribute. However, the removal of the statue is the right thing for Fulham Football Club."
It is understood that the Egyptian millionaire has received offers for the statue and could sell it to raise money for charity.
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/michael-jackson-is-history-controversial-statue-removed-from-fulham-stadium-craven-cottage-8839090.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/michael-jackson-is-history-controversial-statue-removed-from-fulham-stadium-craven-cottage-8839090.html)
Fulham 2 Everton 1
A win, finally a win!
Fulham edged into the fourth round of the Capital One Cup with a nervy win over Everton last night.
Having been drawn against Everton the only unbeaten team in the Premier League, it looked as if it was going to be a task too tough for Martin Jol`s men, especially as the visitors went ahead in the 12th minute.
The early goal came after Everton`s best player, on the night, Gerard Deulofu, provided an inviting cross for Naismith to finish off perfectly.
Matters could have gotten worse for Fulham shortly after when Distin, perfectly placed, hit the post, much to Stockdale`s relief.
But the second half saw a great Fulham fight-back, the equalizer, in th e54th minute, came from the boot of Dimitar Berbatov who finished well after an error from Seamus Coleman had provided the perfect attacking opportunity.
Matters then improved dramatically when, in the 68th minute, Darren Bent, on as a substitute, was on-hand to finish off a free kick, taken by Karagounis.
Despite a nervy finish Fulham held on and will take their place in the fourth round draw tonight!
The only disappointing aspect of last night was the low attendance of just 14,627.
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=333506#ixzz2fytVTXCk (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=333506#ixzz2fytVTXCk)
Selection and Players?
The omens, at Craven Cottage, didn`t look good when Everton went 1-0 up and looked as if they were going to score more.
But Fulham showed that they can be resolute and their sheer-doggedness saw them go through to round four.
After the game, Martin Jol had a few words for the media wit the Dutchman remarking,
"It was a big relief because our last win against Sunderland was a long time ago and we wanted to get back to winning ways."
"It has not been easy because of selection."
"But in the second half with Berbatov and Bent, there were enough goals."
"If there are enough goals, we can win. It`s about selection and players."
What is he on about?
Selection and players, isn`t that this job?
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=333507#ixzz2fytjZCfS (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=333507#ixzz2fytjZCfS)
FULHAM AND CRYSTAL PALACE BOSSES LEAD LONDON SACK RACE
As Premier League sacking season begins in earnest, Ladbrokes are offering some special prices on the next London manager to leave his post, with Fulham's Martin Jol topping the bill.
If the Premier League standings reflected manager affability rather than games won, drawn or lost then Cottagers boss Jol would have nothing to worry about.
However, unluckily for the Dutchman, it doesn't. The real table shows Fulham on four points after five games, following on from a torrid run at the back-end of last season where Jol oversaw six losses from their last eight league games.
Unsurprisingly therefore, the former Tottenham boss is shortest in the betting to be the next London-based Prem manager to leave, at odds of 4/7.
The next thinnest layer of ice can be found at Selhurst Park where the slightly spikier Ian Holloway is 7/2, after gaining just three points from Crystal Palace's opening five games.
It was always going to be a tough assignment for the Bristolian to pick up results, but everyone knows managers live and die by points-accumulation, and if this barren spell continues, it's easy to see the axe falling sooner rather than later.
Despite the reestablishment of West Ham as a Premier League club last season, 6/1 on Sam Allardyce is a reflection that some in east London have never quite warmed to the 'big man's' methods.
A very flat start to the season need only continue for the dissenting voices at Upton Park to make themselves heard.
Predicting the will of 18/1 shot Jose Mourinho always makes him an interesting bet, especially in light of his self-propelled acrimonious exit in his previous stint.
Seemingly far more secure though, are the managers of the current top two teams in the Premier League, Arsene Wenger and Andre Villas-Boas, both 20/1 shots respectively.
http://sportingpreview.com/football2013-1/2013962.php? (http://sportingpreview.com/football2013-1/2013962.php?)
Could the Capital One Cup victory over Everton be the turning point in Fulham's season?
Faith in Martin Jol probably reached its lowest ebb at half time on Tuesday evening.
Fulham were a goal down, outclassed by a more premium, more edgy Everton side. But, as we all know, football has a fancy way of reversing fortune and Jol reaped the rewards, most gratefully.
The 2-1 victory, thanks to goals from Dimitar Berbatov and Darren Bent, might not have been a job-saver for our beleaguered boss but it is an nevertheless an upgrade in confidence.
For weeks fans have bemoaned a lack of spirit, a lack of guile and a lack of team cohesion. It may not have arrived in abundance but something at least resembling team spirit was on show as Fulham fought from a goal behind to forge a lead.
That doesn't happen often – especially under Jol – and it made the result that little bit more pertinent.
Another problem has been goals but Bent looked clinical, scoring within minutes of his introduction, while a deep lying duo of Scott Parker and Giorgos Karagounis looked creative and menacing.
Nevertheless a few concerns remain despite the victory.
The first 45 minutes was almost shambolic. We made Everton look better than they were, gifting them space and time and, more worryingly, room to manoeuvre behind our back line. The pairing of Philippe Senderos and Brede Hangeland made Steven Naismith look like Usain Bolt.
Even though we saw plenty of the ball we simply did nothing with it. Pajtim Kasami was his typically dogged self but with only Berbatov ahead of him, we simply weren't penetrative.
It makes Jol look naive and stubborn. Why persist with a formation that hasn't produced when you know it won't work? Only he can answer that.
But enough complaining. We made it through, against a tough team; we should be proud of that. And we are.
There is, however, still work to be done.
http://metro.co.uk/2013/09/25/could-the-capital-one-cup-victory-over-everton-be-the-turning-point-in-fulhams-season-4110048/? (http://metro.co.uk/2013/09/25/could-the-capital-one-cup-victory-over-everton-be-the-turning-point-in-fulhams-season-4110048/?)
Michael Jackson Statue(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/Michael%20Jackson%20Statue%20Removal/DSC_0725.ashx?w=350&h=250)
Fulham Football Club bid farewell to the Michael Jackson statue on Wednesday 25th September.
Installed in 2011 by Mohamed Al Fayed, the statue has been returned to the former Chairman.
New Fulham Chairman Shahid Khan said: "Our supporters' views on the statue have been made clear. I respect Mr Al Fayed and know he had good intentions in paying an individual tribute. However, the removal of the statue is the right thing for Fulham Football Club."
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/25/michael-jackson-statue? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/25/michael-jackson-statue?)
Alexander Kacaniklic feels criticism of Fulham manager Martin Jol by fans was unfair
Alexander Kacaniklic believes it was unfair of Fulham fans to call for Martin Jol's head two weeks ago.
Supporters were calling for Jol's departure during the home draw to West Brom, but the struggling Premier League side showed signs of vast improvement during Tuesday's Capital Cup win over Everton.
Booed off after an unimpressive first-half display, the Cottagers responded well, scoring twice to seal a 2-1 victory against the Toffees, who were unbeaten before arriving at Craven Cottage.
Asked if criticism of Jol was fair, the midfielder, who was given his first-team start in West London by the Dutchman, said: "No, not really.
"We should have won the West Brom game but we were unlucky and it was the same against Newcastle.
"He is always encouraging us so we are really happy for him and the team.
"We are close. He is always out on the training pitch with us and wants to get involved.
"He is great. Everyone has got their own style but, as a player, you want to be able to speak to the manager and have confidence that you can speak to
him."
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11681/8941174? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11681/8941174?)
Martin Jol: Fulham manager convinced of quality of side
Fulham boss Martin Jol says Tuesday's Capital One Cup win over Everton has convinced him his side will improve.
The Cottagers have not won a Premier League game since the opening day of the season and have only scored three league goals.
He told BBC London 94.9: "I thought at the start of the season we did not have enough goals in us.
"This game showed me, with Darren Bent and Dimitar Berbatov on the scoresheet, that we have got enough quality."
He added: "The league is more important but I always want to do something in the cup.
"Maybe we gained some confidence but we need to keep working hard on the training pitch and then the results will come."
Since beating Sunderland, the west London side have lost to Arsenal, Newcastle and Chelsea and drawn against West Brom.
"If you don't score goals you are under pressure," said Jol. "That is what happened to us.
"If you look back at Newcastle, in the 85th minute Adel Taarabt could score, he didn't and they scored.
"Against West Brom it was the same kettle of fish. We were 1-0 up and the ball was in the net four times and then they scored from a corner kick.
"You have to score to win games and that is exactly what we did against Everton."
Jol says it will take time for the side to gel while summer signings such as Bent and Taarabt settle into life at Craven Cottage.
"I have to integrate Elsad Zverotic, Adel Taarabt and Darren Bent," the Dutchman said.
"It is not easy because two of them have not played a lot of matches. Training is different to playing matches.
"We need to find the right balance and hopefully our supporters realise if everyone is fit and available we will get back to winning ways.
"We have got some good quality players but it is not always easy to play Berbatov with Bent and Adel Taarabt.
"We have young players like [Pajtim] Kasami and [Alex] Kacaniklic who will be big players in the future but they are still young."
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24273877? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24273877?)
Bent targets starting role for Fulham
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Darren Bent has staked his claim for a place in Martin Jol's starting XI at Fulham after bagging the winner in their 2-1 League Cup win over Everton on Tuesday night.
The former Tottenham star was frozen out for a season at Aston Villa last season and has appeared rusty - by his own high standards - since moving to Craven Cottage in the summer.
The forward missed a sitter on Saturday evening in the match against Chelsea but was back on target to sink Roberto Martinez's side.
"I've come in and want to play games and score as many goals as possible," said Bent.
"It was nice to come on and pop one in after the Chelsea game where I had a chance but Petr Cech saved it. It was good to get a chance and take it.
"There's no reason why we can't go on and have a really good season, We'll take great confidence from that performance and now it's all about Cardiff on Saturday.
"You never want to go into a home game having lost your last one so we've got the win and we go from there."
Read more at http://talksport.com/football/bent-targets-starting-role-fulham-13092561596#ZI62zLB8W63iVZKH.99 (http://talksport.com/football/bent-targets-starting-role-fulham-13092561596#ZI62zLB8W63iVZKH.99)
A Statue Is Removed, and Fans Are Thrilled
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Since April 2011, a nearly eight-foot statue of Michael Jackson, stood facing the Thames, behind the home stands.
LONDON — For decades, Michael Jackson was known for his elaborate entrances and glittery stage shows. On Wednesday, the King of Pop was hauled away in air-bubble packaging by four burly stonemasons.
It was an unceremonious end to his nearly three-year run at Fulham's stadium, Craven Cottage. After 90 minutes of chiseling, sawing and hacking, Jackson left the building, horizontally, on the back of a truck.
He will not be missed by Fulham fans. Since April 2011, a nearly eight-foot statue of Jackson, made of Jesmonite, stood facing the Thames, behind the home stands. A large sign that read "Michael Jackson the Tribute" hung next to Jackson, who stood atop black granite with a sequined jacket, an ammunition belt and a glove on his right hand.
His presence was incongruous in the extreme. Mohamed al-Fayed, the team's eccentric former owner, who called Jackson a friend, had the statue built even though Jackson seemed to care little about soccer and attended only one Fulham match.
Fulham's fans were happy with Fayed, who spent lavishly to lift the club's fortunes. They helped pay for a tasteful and far more expensive bronze statue of Johnny Haynes, perhaps the team's greatest player, which stands at the other end of the stadium.
While Jackson's fans traveled from far and wide to pay their respects, in the masculine world of English soccer, the homage to Jackson was considered a joke.
"It's rubbish," said Andy Hunt, a longtime fan who stood near the statue before Tuesday's League Cup game against Everton, drinking beer with his friend, Malcolm Apted. "I don't object to the person. If it was in bronze, maybe. But it's tacky."
Fayed — who bought Fulham in 1997, a few months before his son, Dodi, died in a car crash with Diana, Princess of Wales — was unrepentant. When asked in 2011 about whether a statue of Jackson made sense at the fabled stadium, he said, "If some stupid fans don't understand or appreciate such a gift, they can go to hell." For good measure, he invited these unbelievers to root for Chelsea, Fulham's archrival, which plays two subway stops away.
Fayed got his way until he sold Fulham in July to Shahid Khan, the billionaire owner of the N.F.L.'s Jacksonville Jaguars. At the news conference announcing the deal, Fayed threatened to cut off Khan's signature handlebar mustache if the statue were removed.
Two months later, Khan made perhaps the most important decision of his young tenure as owner: Jacko would go. "Our supporters' views on the statue have been made clear," he said in a statement last week. Removing the statue, he said, was "the right thing for Fulham Football Club."
The decision won Khan instant credibility with fans who were otherwise unhappy with the team's slow start this season.
For now, the statue of Jackson will remain in a warehouse while Fayed decides its fate.
Martin Jol, Fulham's manager, is considering bidding for the statue and either auctioning it for charity or adding it to his art collection, which includes nearly two dozen other statues and several hundred paintings.
"It would be nice to keep it in the Fulham family, if he wants," Jol said, referring to Fayed.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/26/sports/soccer/michael-jackson-statue-removed-from-soccer-stadium.html?_r=0 (http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/26/sports/soccer/michael-jackson-statue-removed-from-soccer-stadium.html?_r=0)
Capital One Cup Draw
Fulham will travel to Sky Bet Championship side Leicester City in the Fourth Round of the Capital One Cup following Wednesday night's draw.
The clash with the Foxes will be played week commencing 28th October.
The two sides last meeting also came in the League Cup, with Fulham winning 3-2 at the Cottage in August 2008 thanks to an injury-time strike from Danny Murphy.
Leicester are currently third in the Championship and unbeaten at home. They sealed their place in the Fourth Round of the Capital One Cup after a 2-1 win over Derby County on Wednesday night.
Ticketing details will be announced on fulhamfc.com in due course.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/25/capital-one-cup-draw? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/25/capital-one-cup-draw?)
Foxes Handed Fulham Cup Tie
Leicester City have been drawn at home to Premier League side Fulham in the Capital One Cup Fourth Round.
The match is scheduled to take place at King Power Stadium in the week commencing 28 October, with a confirmed date and ticket details to be announced in the coming days.
Nigel Pearson's Foxes booked their spot in the fourth round with a stunning second half comeback on Tuesday night to beat Derby County 2-1 in front of the home faithful on Filbert Way.
Having already beaten Carlisle United 5-2 in round two as well as securing a stoppage time 2-1 victory over Wycombe Wanderers in the first round, City will be eager to continue their fine cup form against the Cottagers and clinch a place in the hat for the next round.
Meanwhile Martin Jol's Fulham booked their spot in the last 16 with a come-from-behind 2-1 Craven Cottage win over Everton on Tuesday night.
Read more at http://www.lcfc.com/news/article/250913-foxes-handed-fulham-cup-tie-1077166.aspx?#jXPDE9pBICE2SRy2.99 (http://www.lcfc.com/news/article/250913-foxes-handed-fulham-cup-tie-1077166.aspx?#jXPDE9pBICE2SRy2.99)
Darren is hell-Bent on glory for Fulham
DARREN BENT claims Fulham finally have lift-off this season after their Capital One Cup comeback win over Everton on Tuesday.
The Cottagers won at home for the first time since April to march into the fourth round and ease the pressure on boss Martin Jol.
Bent scored the clincher in a 2-1 win after fighting back from a goal down.
The on-loan Aston Villa striker, who came off the bench to score, said: "It was a positive performance and there's no reason why we can't now go on and have a really good season
"It was a hard game – you know what you're going to get when you play against Everton. They're a strong side and always make it difficult but I thought we showed character to come back from 1-0 down and get the result.
"The second half was probably the best we've played this season and we thoroughly deserved the win. We'll take great confidence from that performance and now it's all about Cardiff in the league on Saturday.''
Bent now has two goals in five appearances for Fulham and has vowed that there are many more to come.
The 29-year-old, who still has England ambitions, said: "I've come in and want to play games and score as many goals as possible."
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/341018/Darren-is-hell-Bent-on-glory-for-Fulham (http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/341018/Darren-is-hell-Bent-on-glory-for-Fulham)
Everton (H) – Review
Darren Bent ended Fulham's long wait for a home win by coming off the bench to complete a turnaround victory at Craven Cottage.
A number of barren records were abolished last night as Craven Cottage witnessed a home victory for the first time since beating QPR on April 1st, and in the process we also ended a twenty month spell in which we failed to win a game from a losing position. The last time we achieved this feat was, believe it or not, against Newcastle in a 5-2 romp, and the manner of which we achieved the feat against a weakened yet strong Everton side indicates it could be the catalyst from which we can gather some momentum in our important forthcoming fixtures.
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Fulham won from a losing position for the first time since January 2012
With Cardiff and Stoke visiting the Cottage in our next two fixtures, and Jol under increasing pressure after dropped points late against West Brom and a turgid second half performance at Stamford Bridge, a poor performance and result against the visiting Toffees would have given our fans further justification to reinforce the growing emergence of vitriol aimed at the team and more prominently, Martin Jol. Following a poor opening half in which Steven Naismith frequently took advantage of our high defensive line by buzzing around the constantly troublesome Romelu Lukaku, and slotting in the opening goal after receiving an acute through ball from the technically impressive Gerard Deulofeu, the whites emerged after half-time to produce our best forty-five minutes this season.
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Romelu Lukaku was a persistent threat
The aforementioned Deulofeu did not deserve to be on the losing side, he seemed impervious in the first-half as he found space in between our midfield and attack, our midfield combination of Parker and Karagounis struggled to contain the away sides fluid movement as McCarthy and Oviedo allowed the Barcelona loanee the freedom to control the tempo of the game in an advanced role. Fortunately for us, this trend reversed following the interval, as Pajtim Kasami gained more confidence in his number ten role with our deep-lying midfield two taking a foothold in the game.
We yearn to see Jol change games, and for the second time in the league cup this season a substitution has directly impacted the game through scoring. It took Bent all of just three minutes to cleverly elude the awaiting pack and give Karagounis the option to play the ball short to the former England marksmen, who shot through Joel Robles' legs to complete a transformation not only in personnel, but in mentality from half-time. This was the sort of enthusiasm we wanted to see in the second-half at Stamford Bridge, instead of toiling away and resting on our laurels, thus inviting opposition pressure.
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Darrent Bent scored his second Fulham goal to put the Whites into the 4th Round
Emerging in the second half with fresh impetus and desire, we saw the results of this in the build-up to our first goal. Hangeland winning the ball by pressing in a midfield area, the industrious parker then gave a platform for Kasami to drive at the Everton defence, something he showed glimpses of against both Chelsea and West Brom, and through a fortunate break the ball fell to Berbatov, who calmly slotted the ball low to Robles' left and in doing so scored his first goal at the Hammersmith End. The thought of momentum being pivotal was shown within the cacophony of forty-five minutes, as Everton struggled to regain their previous dominance. Despite late pressure, and a sprawling save denying what should have been a certain goal from Seamus Coleman, we ended the game well and gained an entertaining and much needed victory.
So what can we take from the game? Darrent Bent stretched the Everton defence and allowed Kasami and Berbatov to operate in space, and as a result giving the midfield two more room to manoeuvre. These three must start on Saturday. Both Kacanaklic and Taarabt were quiet, more so the latter, and should fear the returning Ruiz, Duff and Mesca taking their spots. Parker was fantastic once more, and Karagounis did himself no harm, Amorebieta impressed once again in his albeit brief appearance and debutant Elsad Zverotic looked industrious and comfortable on the ball. Stockdale made impressive saves and despite his mistake gifting Chelsea the lead on Saturday, should remain in goal for the time being.
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Scott Parker was combative in midfield and showed leadership in a deep-lying role
Whether or not this is another step on the road to Wembley remains to be seen, and we await tonight's fourth round draw, but in the much wider context of our season the importance of this result, more so in doing so from a losing position and jeers being audible at the half-time whistle, cannot be underestimated. We have four important fixtures forthcoming, all of which are winnable. We can now go into the Cardiff and Stoke home double-header on the back of a confidence boosting victory, and should be aiming for maximum points from these two games.
On the day that the much-derided Michael Jackson statue has been removed from Craven Cottage and returned to our previous owner, it was nice to get a reminder that we're not always bad.
http://bartrambytheriver.wordpress.com/2013/09/25/everton-h-review/ (http://bartrambytheriver.wordpress.com/2013/09/25/everton-h-review/)
Burn On Target For Blues(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/PlayerActionShots/2013-14/Dan%20Burn/PA-17674422.ashx?w=300&h=400)
Dan Burn was on target as Birmingham City knocked out holders Swansea City in the Third Round of the Capital One Cup on Wednesday night.
After a goalless first half at St Andrew's, the unmarked Burn put Blues in front with a header from Paul Caddis' cross.
Matt Green and Tom Adeyemi then increased Birmingham's advantage, before Wilfried Bony replied for Swansea in injury time.
Blues will play Stoke City in the Fourth Round.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/26/burn-on-target-for-blues? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2013/september/26/burn-on-target-for-blues?)
Fulham Fans Should Get Real About Martin Jol
When a new chairman or chairwoman comes into a club they often have their own ideas on how things should be run on and off the pitch, which means whoever is the manager at that point is in danger of losing their job. In the case of Fulham under the new ownership of Shad Khan, it appears to be a minority of fans rather than a know-it-all businessman or woman that would do way with the current boss, Martin Jol.
This was exemplified plainly at their home game against West Bromwich Albion over a week ago, which left them in their usual area of 13th place. It's usually the opposite although I wouldn't be surprised if Khan was or will eventually be on their side going by the past actions of owners. The members of the Craven Cottage faithful that want Jol out of the club for not getting them to where they 'rightly deserve' are forgetting a few things.
Never won a major honour
Although The Whites have been established in the top tier for 12 straight years now, and reached the Europa League final three years ago after a remarkable spate of victories against much bigger clubs such as Juventus and Hamburg on route to it, Fulham's highest top-flight finishes are 7th and 8th.
They have never won a major honour throughout their entire history as London's oldest club and have spent the majority of their lifespan in the lower leagues, so we are not talking crème de la crème here. But that is not what some impatient and narrow minded 'supporters' would have you believe going by some of their behaviour.
Stiff competition
In terms of size, it's arguable whether the club that are currently residing in 18th place in the Premiership (them) are even Premier League standard when you think of the likes of Leeds United, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers plying their trades in the divisions below. Whether fans thought that Fulham should have built on the dizzy heights of 7th, 8th and a European final then challenge for the Champions League I don't know.
But those calling for Jol's head should remember that there's stiff competition out there. You never know, with Khan's backing they could do a 'Manchester City', but it's highly unlikely.
Jol has done well in his managerial career including his spell at Tottenham Hotspur. It was him who got the ball rolling for the The Lilywhites, transforming them from the average mid-table side that they had been for the best part of a decade to coming within a whisker (and a rumoured dodgy lasagne) away from qualifying for the Champions League in 2005-06.
Only picked up under Redknapp
He guided them to another fifth place finish the following season. Despite being sacked in October of the 2007-08 campaign, his fate was virtually sealed after two games when his chairman Daniel Levy was spotted in a Spanish hotel with Jol's eventual successor, Juande Ramos.
It proved to be a knee-jerk reaction on Tottenham's part as they, despite winning the League Cup, ended up in 11th place, while then only gaining two points from their first eight games the following campaign, which ultimately led to the dismissal of Ramos.
The club only picked themselves up again under his successor Harry Redknapp who actually got them into Europe's premier competition, with a little help from Gareth Bale of back-of-the-newspaper fame whom Jol signed in his time at the club.
What do those dissenting expect from the club?
This praising up of Jol is not to say that someone else couldn't come in at Fulham and achieve a similar degree success with the club i.e. getting them to 12th place like the man who looks a cross between Humpty Dumpty and a Mafia boss did with them last season. But what do those dissenting voices in the Fulham crowd expect from their club?
Saying ''you could do a lot of worse than Jol'' is a compliment, but I would rather say ''you won't get many better than Jol,'' because, disgruntled Cottage supporters, you won't.
A club of Tottenham's size (much bigger than yours) were bottom a year after Jol was gone—what makes you think the same wouldn't happen to you should you treat him the same way?
http://www.kettlemag.co.uk/article/fulham-fans-should-get-real-about-martin-jol? (http://www.kettlemag.co.uk/article/fulham-fans-should-get-real-about-martin-jol?)
Martin Jol confirms Maarten Stekelenburg still out
Fulham manager Martin Jol has revealed that Maarten Stekelenburg will remain missing through injury for Saturday's home clash against Cardiff City.
Jol also confirmed that Ashkan Dejagah and Matthew Briggs will not be fit for the visit of the Bluebirds.
The Dutchman did say that Aaron Hughes and Bryan Ruiz would face late fitness tests, which could see them in the squad on Saturday.
Stekelenburg was injured in Fulham's opening-day win over Sunderland, while Dejagah has made just one appearance so far this season, in the League Cup win away to Burton Albion.
http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/jol-confirms-stekelenburg-still-out_107321.html (http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/jol-confirms-stekelenburg-still-out_107321.html)
