Norwich v Fulham
FA CUP THIRD ROUND
Venue: Carrow Road Date: Saturday, 4 January Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio 5 live, BBC local radio, Final Score
Norwich's record signing Ricky van Wolfswinkel is set to make his first start since October.
Luciano Becchio is also likely to feature while Michael Turner (hamstring), Jonny Howson (back) and Leroy Fer (suspension) all miss out.
Fulham will have Clint Dempsey available after the American striker re-signed for the club from Seattle Founders on a two-month loan spell.
Goalkeeper Martin Stekelenburg (ankle) remains injured.
Provisional squads
Norwich: Bunn, Garrido, R Bennett, Bassong, Olsson, Redmond, Johnson, Hoolahan, Josh Murphy, van Wolfswinkel, Becchio, Nash, Jacob Murphy, Snodgrass, Martin, Whittaker, Hooper, Elmander, Fox, Turner.
Fulham: Stockdale, Riether, Hughes, Senderos, Riise, Parker, Karagounis, Sidwell, Ruiz, Kasami, Dejagah, Rodallega, Kacinicklic, Richardson, Boateng, Zverotic, David, Bent, Bettinelli, Dempsey.
Stats
• Norwich have never been further than the semi-finals of the FA Cup. They have reached the last four on three separate occasions, most recently in 1992.
• Norwich manager Chris Hughton won the FA Cup with Spurs in 1981 and 1982.
• Norwich were knocked out by non-league Luton in the Fourth Round last season.
• Fulham were beaten finalists in 1975 when they lost 2-0 to West Ham at Wembley.
• These teams met as recently as Boxing Day in the Premier League at Carrow Road, when Fulham won by two goals to one.
Preview
NORWICH (Premier League, Pos: 15th) v FULHAM (Premier League, Pos: 16th)
One of three all-Premier League encounters but surprisingly these clubs have not met in the FA Cup for 106 years.
It's Fulham's second trip to Carrow Road in 10 days after also facing Norwich in the Premier League on Boxing Day.
Fulham beat Norwich 5-0 on the opening day of the 2012-13 season, they also triumphed 6-0 against them on the final day of the 2004-05 campaign to relegate the Canaries - both games took place at Craven Cottage.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25531897? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25531897?)
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
Norwich City v Fulham
This is another all-Premier League tie, and one I am not sure either club's manager will be too bothered about. It is very difficult to know what teams they are going to pick.
Both of these teams will be more concerned about staying up, and neither will want a replay. Because of that, that is exactly what I think they will get.
Lawro's prediction: 1-1 (Fulham to win the replay)
Matthew Hanlan's prediction: 2-1
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25577734 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25577734)
Arsenal Striker Welcomes Dimitar Berbatov to the Club
That's right - Arsenal striker Yaya Sanogo has posted (and deleted) a post welcoming Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov to the club. The post was quickly removed but not before several fans took a screenshot of the post and posted it to various social media networks.
The post comes at a time when Berbatov has indeed been linked to Arsenal as Arsene Wenger will look to provide reinforcements to his thin front line. Will the move happen? It is yet to be seen, and the club certainly won't be happy that a player of theirs posted a video with a title caption that reads "Could Fire Arsenal to the Title" with a picture of Berbatov.
This isn't the first time a player has used social media for the wrong reasons and found himself in hot water. As social networks continue to gain more and more popularity, celebrities, athletes, and the general public continue to use them to build their names and market themselves. In football, going through a press office for an interview or an opinion has always been tradition, but these networks now allow players to speak their minds freely - somewhat - without going through the press office.
Often it is fine and players only help boost the image of themselves as well as their clubs. Other times, well, players find themselves welcoming another club's striker to their team before the transfer is even done.
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Do you think social media should monitored and restricted for professional athletes? Is there anyway to prevent something like this from happening or is this just a part of the modern culture these days? A quick slip up like these can be embarrassing for the player and the club, as questionable posts quickly get shared and screen grabbed leading to a viral frenzy.
Read more at http://swol.co/arsenal-striker-welcomes-dimitar-berbatov-to-the-club/32202?#JXUe9gecRPJ6CDoF.99 (http://swol.co/arsenal-striker-welcomes-dimitar-berbatov-to-the-club/32202?#JXUe9gecRPJ6CDoF.99)
Robert Snodgrass hoping for FA Cup nod against Fulham despite recent injury return
Robert Snodgrass would arguably be prime candidate for an FA Cup rest when Fulham visit Carrow Road for the second time in 10 days on Saturday afternoon – but the Scot hopes it doesn't happen. He has a stat to put right.
Having missed five weeks through a knee injury, Snodgrass has been back at full tilt since his late December return at Sunderland.
But his run of four Premier League starts has not helped him sort out one issue that had lingered with one of last term's top Canaries performers.
And while Snodgrass could be looking at a cup rest, it's for that very reason he wants to play his part in City's third round date.
"Of course I want to be involved – I want to try to be involved in every game," said Snodgrass. "For myself, right now I need an assist or a goal to maybe spark me off. I feel I'm doing right fitness-wise, but when you're a winger you are judged upon goals and different things.
"I saw a stat the other day that I've created the most chances of any player in the Premier League without actually getting an assist, so from my point of view I can't really do much more. I'm trying my best to try to create the chances. It's up to other people to take them.
"Sometimes you got through seasons like this – especially being hampered by niggling injuries – and it's been very frustrating for me. But I'll not go under. I'll keep puffing my chest out and trying to do as well as I possibly can for this team because at the end of the day it's a team game.
"The fans as well. Everybody pulling in the right direction and hopefully try to stay in this division."
That Premier League drive can wait seven days for a tricky trip to high-flying Everton. Saturday, it's the FA Cup that will take centre stage.
But between football duties, Snodgrass has been busy making the most of his profile – auctioning items to help raise money for those affected after the Glasgow helicopter crash at the city's Clutha bar on November 29.
"I don't want to get in the way of the football side of things, but I've been doing a bit of charity work for the families back home that were affected by the crash," added Snodgrass.
"Some of my mates were firemen involved in the accident and saw some horrific things. It's right beside where I was brought up so it's nice to give a little bit back.
"The Norwich fans. Even Celtic, Scotland and Leeds United fans – for people to donate to charity at this time of year, it's different class."
http://www.pinkun.com/norwich-city/robert_snodgrass_hoping_for_fa_cup_nod_against_fulham_despite_recent_injury_return_1_3174335 (http://www.pinkun.com/norwich-city/robert_snodgrass_hoping_for_fa_cup_nod_against_fulham_despite_recent_injury_return_1_3174335)
Fulham boss plans to make changes for Norwich FA Cup clash
Youngster Burn in line to feature against Canaries at Carrow Road
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Rising star: Dan Burn has impressed at Birmingham City
Rene Meulensteen plans to make changes to his Fulham side for tomorrow's FA Cup clash at Norwich.
The Dutch boss will rest some of his key men ahead of next week's basement battle with Sunderland, while youngster Dan Burn could start after being recalled from his loan spell at Birmingham City.
Clint Dempsey is in line to play some part following his loan move from MLS side Seattle Sounders.
However, the Cottagers are still without injured duo Maarten Stekelenburg and skipper Brede Hangeland.
"You have to manage the squad," Meulensteen told the club's official site. "The Sunderland game is as important as the West Ham game. You have to look at protecting some players to allow them to overcome niggles.
"It gives an opportunity to some younger players coming through. The reason we brought Dan back for this game was to create a pathway to develop.
"This is a reward for him and to see if he can step up to first-team level in the FA Cup."
http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-boss-plans-make-changes-6466434? (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/fulham-boss-plans-make-changes-6466434?)
Riether: We're over Hull result
SASCHA Riether believes Fulham have atoned for their horror show at Hull by dispatching West Ham in a key Premier League relegation tussle.
Both clubs entered the match in the bottom three but it was Fulham who climbed to 16th place with a 2-1 victory at Craven Cottage.
It was a critical result for Rene Meulensteen's side after they were embarrassed 6-0 by Hull last Saturday.
"After Hull it was important that you give the right answer and we did that in a six-pointer against West Ham," Riether said.
"The result against Hull was not good, we wanted to get some points.
"When something like that happens it's important you forget it as soon as possible because at the moment every few days you have a match.
"The manager found the right words and you saw the response on the pitch."
SETBACK
The drubbing at Hull was the only setback in an otherwise successful Christmas that yielded six points in three games, all against relegation rivals after Norwich were also dispatched 2-1 on St Stephen's Day.
The campaign is interrupted by Saturday's return to Carrow Road in the FA Cup third round, before Premier League action resumes against Sunderland at Craven Cottage a week later.
"Sunderland at home will be a very important game as well and that's when we need to take the next step," Riether said. "We got the three points against West Ham, but just as importantly was that we created a lot of chances and applied a lot of pressure."
Problems are mounting for West Ham boss Sam Allardyce, who is under pressure as the club continue their battle with relegation with games against Manchester City, Chelsea and Newcastle in the league this month.
http://www.herald.ie/sport/soccer/riether-were-over-hull-result-29886103.html (http://www.herald.ie/sport/soccer/riether-were-over-hull-result-29886103.html)
Berbatov is not on Wenger list
ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger will wait to discover the extent of Nicklas Bendtner's ankle injury before deciding whether to bring in another striker during the January transfer window - but maintained Dimitar Berbatov is "not a name that we have considered at the moment".
The Barclays Premier League leaders host north London rivals Tottenham in the FA Cup third round on Saturday afternoon with something of a selection headache in attack.
Lead frontman Olivier Giroud missed the 2-0 win over Cardiff on New Year's Day because of an ankle problem and has also now been hit by a sickness bug.
Bendtner came off the bench to score with just two minutes left to finally break Cardiff's resistance, but suffered a sprained ankle when putting the ball past goalkeeper David Marshall and the club are awaiting results of a scan for a more detailed diagnosis.
Wenger openly admits Arsenal will not rule out a move for a top-calibre player should the opportunity arise this month.
Fulham forward Berbatov, 32, netted his third goal in as many appearances in the 2-1 win over West Ham at New Year's Day. The veteran Bulgarian has been touted as the ideal January addition for Arsenal and could be available for a cut-price £2million.
However, while the former Spurs and Manchester United frontman may well fancy a move to the Emirates Stadium - with a link to a video suggesting he could boost the Gunners' title ambitions being posted on the forward's Facebook page - Wenger intends to keep his thoughts on potential transfer targets guarded.
"He (Berbatov) is not a name that we have considered at the moment. We have not even been out on the transfer market, we have not contacted anybody," the Arsenal manager said.
"We are just analysing the situation, being very cautious until we are well informed about Bendtner and (Yaya) Sanogo as well, because he is back in training now. We will make a decision after that."
Wenger continued: "It depends on how long he (Bendtner) will be out for.
"But I don't want to go into any speculation on any specific name because that would not help where the player plays at the moment and would be disrespectful to the player's club.
"At the moment we are just considering our options.
"I must confess they are quite restricted; in the way that the players available can strengthen our squad are not on the road, they are all under contract, most of the clubs are in competitions where they need their best players.
http://www.herald.ie/sport/soccer/berbatov-is-not-on-wenger-list-29886109.html (http://www.herald.ie/sport/soccer/berbatov-is-not-on-wenger-list-29886109.html)
Rene Meulensteen plans to shake up his side for Saturday's FA Cup clash at Norwich
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Steve Bardens
Rene Meulensteen plans to make changes to his side for tomorrow's FA Cup clash at Norwich.
The Fulham boss will rest some of his key men ahead of next week's basement battle with Sunderland, while youngster Dan Burn could start after being recalled from his loan spell at Birmingham City.
However, the Cottagers are still without injured duo Maarten Stekelenburg and skipper Brede Hangeland.
"You have to manage the squad," said Meulensteen. "The Sunderland game is as important as the West Ham game. You have to look at protecting some players to allow them to overcome niggles.
"It gives an opportunity to some younger players coming through. The reason we brought Dan back for this game was to create a pathway to develop.
"This is a reward for him and to see if he can step up to first-team level in the FA Cup."
Check out all the latest News, Sport & Celeb gossip at Mirror.co.uk http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/rene-meulensteen-plans-shake-up-2984244#ixzz2pPhadyT5 (http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/rene-meulensteen-plans-shake-up-2984244#ixzz2pPhadyT5)
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Marcus' Accrington Return(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/PlayerActionShots/2013-14/Marcus%20Bettinelli/Marcus%20Bettinelli.ashx?w=350&h=250)
Fulham Football Club can confirm that goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli has rejoined Accrington Stanley on an emergency loan deal until Thursday 30th January.
The 21-year-old had been in good form for the Sky Bet League Two outfit - making 19 appearances - before he was recalled following an injury to Maarten Stekelenburg.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/03/marcus-accrington-return? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/03/marcus-accrington-return?)
Man Utd: Fulham line up Smalling return
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Manchester United defender Chris Smalling. Mandatory credit: Action Images.
Fulham could make an ambitious bid to bring Manchester United defender Chris Smalling back to Craven Cottage, it has emerged.
The struggling London outfit are looking to strengthen their squad this January in a bid to maintain their top flight status, and SportsDirect News understands that manager Rene Meulensteen has identified Smalling as a top target.
The Dutchman, formerly a coach at Old Trafford, is a fan of the 24-year-old, who first made a name for himself in the Premier League when he joined Fulham from Maidstone United in 2008.
He was quickly snapped up by United, though he has not quite lived up to his potential with the Red Devils, and could make way if manager David Moyes can bring in upgrades for his back four this winter.
With Meulensteen's United links, the likes of Anderson, Wilfried Zaha and Ashley Young have also been linked with Fulham in recent months, but with the reigning champions struggling so far this season they may be reluctant to lose squad players before making significant signings themselves.
http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/37804-man-utd-fulham-line-up-smalling-return.php#.Use8EP0cKbA (http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/37804-man-utd-fulham-line-up-smalling-return.php#.Use8EP0cKbA)
Accrington re-sign Fulham's Marcus Bettinelli on loan
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/72068000/jpg/_72068195_pa-17403177.jpg)
Fulham goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli has returned to Accrington Stanley on loan until 30 January.
Bettinelli, 21, had been Stanley's regular keeper before being recalled to Craven Cottage on Christmas Day.
Teenager Andrew Dawber has started the last three games, while the League Two club have allowed Ian Dunbavin to join Chesterfield on a month's loan.
Meanwhile, Stanley's game at Portsmouth on Saturday has been postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25588090? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25588090?)
Smalling Linked With Fulham Return
One strange rumour I stumbled upon today relates to Chris Smalling.
The rumour infers that Rene Meulensteen has made the 24 year-old former Fulham player one of his January transfer targets, albeit probably on loan.
Meulensteen`s United connections would, I believe, give him a head start when it comes to negotiating any loan deals with his former employers with the likes of Anderson, Wilfried Zaha and Ashley Young also being mentioned at various times as players Meulensteen might consider.
However, before we get all excited about a possible influx of stars from Old Trafford, perhaps we should point out that with Manchester United struggling in the Premier League it is highly unlikely that David Moyes would consider any such deals which would see his squad depleted without first adding players to his squad.
Wishful thinking I`ll put this one down to!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=344089#ixzz2pPj7JJoE (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=344089#ixzz2pPj7JJoE)
Young Keeper Re-Joins Accrington
With Maarten Stekelenburg injured, David Stockdale has been the man between the posts.
That`s meant that Marcus Bettinelli, our young 21 year old, has been on the bench having been recalled from his loan spell at Accrington Stanley on Christmas Day.
Well it has been announced today that Bettinelli, who had been Accrington`s regular keeper until being recalled, has returned to Stanley, on loan, until the end of January.
Unfortunately, he won`t be pitched straight back into action as Stanley`s fixture, at Portsmouth, has fallen foul of the weather courtesy of a waterlogged pitch.
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=344091#ixzz2pPjI8Tfn (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=344091#ixzz2pPjI8Tfn)
£10 Sunderland Tickets(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/PlayerActionShots/2013-14/Philippe%20Senderos/PA-18581311.ashx)
Next up for the Whites at home are Sunderland on Saturday 11th January (3pm). Tickets are already on General Sale from £35 adults and £15 juniors.
Season Ticket Holders can buy up to six additional tickets priced at just £10 each, located in the Hammersmith End or Putney End. That's a saving of £25 on the adult price and £5 on the junior price.
Season Ticket Holders can buy their tickets online at fulhamfc.com/tickets or by calling 0843 208 1234 today. This offer will expire on the Thursday before the match (subject to availability) so make sure you snap up your extra tickets before it's too late!
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/03/10-pound-sunderland-tickets? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/03/10-pound-sunderland-tickets?)
Brentford face battle to keep Fulham forward Marcello Trotta
Interest mounts in frontman after Italian Serie B sides join the race to sign him on loan
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Wanted man: Marcello Trotta
Brentford's bid to keep Marcello Trotta is under threat after clubs from Italy joined the battle for the Fulham frontman.
The 21-year-old has scored seven goals in 20 games for the Bees this season but is due to return to Craven Cottage after the weekend.
Griffin Park chief Mark Warburton is desperate to keep Trotta at the club and is locked in talks with Fulham to try and iron out a deal.
However, the League One leaders face competition from Italy, with a number of Serie B clubs having expressed an interest in taking him on loan.
Trotta's profile in his homeland has been raised after scoring on his debut for Italy's Under-21s in a friendly game with a Serie B representative side last month.
Brentford remain favourites for his signature, with Fulham boss Rene Meulensteen ready to let the forward continue his development away from SW6.
http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/brentford-face-battle-keep-fulham-6467157? (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/brentford-face-battle-keep-fulham-6467157?)
Athleticism and Physicality: Why Fulham Need Bothby CHRIS GILBERTSON on JANUARY 3, 2014If the Pep Guardiola years at Barcelona taught the football world anything, it's that size isn't everything. The greatest team of the 21st Century to date was, and still is, dominated by pint sized footballing magicians such as Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi. These three players are the exception though and not the rule.
Consider this scenario, what if there was a second player with the exact same talent of Lionel Messi, but he had the frame of Zlatan Ibrahimovic. If you put them in identical teams, over the course of a season, who would score more goals? Logic would dictate the more physically dominant of the two. However, this may not be the case, for every defender that the Zlatan type could out-jump or overpower, there is a player the Messi type could go round or out-manoeuvre. When your natural talent base is so superior to your opponents, your body type is largely irrelevant.
(http://hammyend.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/lionel-messi-zlatan-ibrahimovic-2009-10-25-19-11-41-300x176.jpg)
lionel-messi-zlatan-ibrahimovic-2009-10-25-19-11-41Now consider this, instead of a player with the best talent in the world, what if there was a player with the talent of say, Steve Sidwell. Our very own special one Iniesta is experiencing something of a renaissance under Rene Meulensteen and he is certainly playing above and beyond his physical stature. However, were there a universe of infinite multiple Sidwells of different shapes and sizes all sharing the same underlying talent level, there would be an expectation that the faster and stronger incarnation would be the most successful.
The emphasis in that last statement is that it is faster and stronger, not taller and heavier, that would succeed. Being tall or heavy is no guarantee of success. But utilise physical prowess and turn it into athleticism, and there would be a correlation. Athleticism is the balance at play between multiple physical attributes not a product of any one on its own. The perfect player is strong but fast and dominant but agile. Complexities are abound and the perfect athletic player would have strength [requiring weight] but also be quick and agile [requiring lightness].
Given equal talent, the athlete will prevail.
In a sport where the margins between success and failure are often miniscule, something as simple as physical attributes must be taken into consideration when putting a team together. At the bottom end of the Premier League table, the difference in talent level between sides can often be so marginal that it will be the more athletic and fitter side that come out on top.
This was obvious with Fulham earlier this season. Fitness levels were clearly lacking and results suffered as a result. Regardless of fitness, Fulham lack athletes. We have various technically skilled and gifted footballers, but we are short on athletic prowess. It is rare for us to out-pace, out-muscle or out-jump other teams.
Of course, fitness is an attribute that can be improved and worked upon. Indeed, any look at the form of Adel Taarabt over the past few weeks would see a fitter player having more success as a result. However, given the assumption that all players receive the same level of fitness training, those players with greater physical prowess are likely to be the ones who excel athletically.
Unfortunately football doesn't record a uniform set of athletic statistics. Short of height and weight, it is rare to see a physical or athletic characteristics charted in the public eye. This can make a lot of the analysis surrounding athleticism highly subjective from a scouting perspective. Once a club gets their hands on a player they can ProZone them till their heart's content but until then there is a lot of guesswork and the patching together of statistical information that may or may not infer a measure of athletic performance.
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6 foot 7 Brondby striker Simon Makienok is a reported transfer target American Football, where athleticism is placed at a particular premium, has a stringent set of methods for measuring the athletic ability of potential players entering the NFL. Whilst not by any means a conclusive judge of future success, the NFL pre-draft scouting combine forces players to perform a number of athletic challenges and tests which are used to define a players' on-paper athleticism statistically. These challenges, such as a 40 yard sprint, single rep and multiple rep bench pressing and agility courses can give scouts an idea as to whether a player's athleticism synergises with their physical characteristics. This can then be used, along with technical and talent scouting to determine whether or not a player is desired.
If we return to football, where there are no such openly available measures of athletic performance, we can look at the basic physical stats of height and weight as a crude measure of potential athleticism.
Take four clubs as an example: Fulham, Newcastle, Southampton and Swansea. Three of these sides are teams currently above us in the league to whom we should be a peer.
Let's look statistically at the strikers, where height and strength are ever crucial in the modern game.
| Team | Forwards | Average Height (m) | Average Weight (kg) | BMI (heigh/weight) | League Goals 2013/14 |
| Fulham | Berbatov / Bent / Rodallega | 1.83 | 74.67 | 0.0245 | 6 |
| Newcastle | Ameobi / Cisse / Remy | 1.86 | 76.33 | 0.0244 | 10 |
| Southampton | Lambert / Rodriguez / Osvaldo | 1.85 | 79.33 | 0.0233 | 17 |
| Swansea | Michu / Bony / Alvaro | 1.85 | 78.67 | 0.0236 | 8 |
The statistics are for the three main forwards in each side's case. Fulham are shown to be the worst team physically having the lowest average height and weight and the highest BMI. This translates into the lowest goals total in the league this season of the four sides. Fulham coincidentally also have the oldest striking trio at an average age of over 29, compared to the youngest, Swansea, at 26.
The argument which I am attempting to make here is that Fulham need to pay greater attention to athleticism when analysing potential transfer targets. Financially the problem is that the most talented and most athletic footballers will cost the most on the open market. For a club like Fulham, to make players affordable, there is a likely necessity to take a hit on either athleticism or talent. At the top end of the table, talent is crucial, at the bottom, where team talent levels are closer to each other, there is a need for defining athleticism.
Take some examples of individual players; Bryan Ruiz is one of the most technically gifted footballers at Fulham. He is just not athletic in the traditional sense. Were he stronger and quicker, he would have cost more than £10m and not be the subject of speculation as to an impending departure.
Clint Dempsey came to Fulham as a waif like bundle of trickery who would be pushed off the ball with the merest breath of a passing butterfly. Over the course of his Fulham career he gained an ever improving level of upper body strength which made him physically more athletic and as such, gave him the platform with which to use his skills. Were Bryan to put on half a stone of muscle, I'd wager good money on him improving his productivity.
David Elm, for those of us that remember the David Elm experience, was a technically graceful footballer. He was, however, as flat footed as a duck-billed platypus.
For a non-Fulham example, Aaron Lennon is one of the best known examples of the other side of the coin. He's a player with electric raw pace but questionable technique but who is still good enough to play for a top 10 side. Were Lennon blessed with David Beckham's pace, he would struggle to get in any Premier League side, however, if he had Beckham's technical ability, he'd essentially be Gareth Bale, and be the world's most expensive transfer.
If you look at Fulham's current squad, there are a number of players who follow this pattern; were Hugo Rodallega blessed with Erik Nevland's technique and talent he'd be a consistent scoring threat, simultaneously if the above-mentioned Steve Sidwell was blessed with Dickson Etuhu's athleticism, we'd have a European calibre box to box midfielder.
Physical prowess is no guarantee of success and each position requires a different physical skill set. It's not that we need a taller team or heavier team, but I doubt many would complain if we got stronger and faster.
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Beanpole centre half Dan Burn has been recalled from loan Beanpole centre half Dan Burn has been recalled from loan While height and weight do not conclusively prove a players' likely athleticism, they do count for one factor for certain; intimidation. Saturday's victory against West Ham was a lot harder to secure once West Ham took off Modibo Maiga (1.85m / 76 kg) and replaced him with Carlton Cole (1.91 m / 84 kg).
While nobody is suggesting we'll be able to afford someone with the all-around technique and athletic balance like Alvaro Negredo, the Manchester City forward who may just be the best example of the perfectly balanced striker, it would be nice to see Fulham look for players this January who can take control of games athletically. Too many of our defenders resemble statues, our midfielders get out-muscled, our-wingers outpaced and out strikers out-everythinged.
It is important that we sign good technical players who can satisfy the desired Fulham way of playing (if there is such a thing) a flowing and passing style of football. However, it is important that we look to sign athletes as well. At the moment we fail to compete physically in too many games. By adapting the scouting and transfer outlook to improve our physical and by nature our athletic presence, we would give ourselves the platform with which to let our talent win us football matches.
Lowering the squad's average age will contribute to an increasing of fitness levels across the board, but it could be argued that age alone is not a barrier to fitness. Scott Parker is arguably the fittest player in the Fulham squad but at 33 he is also one of the oldest (and at 1.75 m he is the second shortest). Reduced stamina and diminishing physical capabilities are though a correlated result of the aging process and Parker is like Messi, Iniesta and Xavi, in that in his own way he is an exception and not the rule.
Fitness coaching must not take a back seat. While management changes have come in abundance at Motspur Park of late there has been little said with regards to fitness. A fitness coach can only work with what he has in front of him though, and Fulham must give coach Scott Miller a younger and more athletic squad.
A side cannot be all brute strength and height, but must instead be a balance of athleticism, technique and talent.
The challenge facing Fulham in the next month is to sign several players who can simultaneously improve the athleticism and fitness levels of the first team whilst lowering its average age and increasing its talent level.
Who'd be a scout eh? Or a Head Coach, Technical Director or Chief Executive for that matter?
COYWhttp://hammyend.com/index.php/2014/01/athleticism-and-physicality-why-fulham-need-both/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2014/01/athleticism-and-physicality-why-fulham-need-both/?)
American Exports: Will Clint Dempsey suit up for Fulham in FA Cup?
AMSTERDAM – Several Americans will suit up for weekend action, with Brad Friedel hoping for an FA Cup start against derby rivals Arsenal.
All times listed in ET.
ITALIAN SERIE A
Michael Bradley – AS Roma at Juventus (Sunday, 2:45 pm on beIN Sport/RAI)
With his midfield mates done taking a round of yellow-card suspensions, the US midfielder could return to the sub's bench for this clash with the clear league leaders. The visitors might do well to get him in the game, though; Bradley is undefeated in three career appearances against the Bianconeri. Juventus come in with eight straight wins and a 17-match unbeaten streak at home, and they have taken three in a row against Roma there.
ENGLISH FA CUP
Clint Dempsey – Fulham at Norwich City (Saturday, 10 am)
The Telegraph has now reported that Clint Dempsey will be cleared for selection, but the Cottagers have yet to confirm this. Dempsey has six goals in his last four FA Cup starts, as well as a goal and a helper in four games against Norwich. Fulham have not lost away to the Canaries since 1986, a span of five wins and two draws.
Brad Friedel – Tottenham at Arsenal (Saturday, 12:15 pm on FOX)
Though he has not been announced as starter, the history of Spurs' goal rotation suggest that Friedel will be between the pipes against the hated Gunners for the 29th time in his career. The former USMNT star is 1-1 against Arsenal in a Tottenham shirt and has evenly split three career FA Cup meetings with them (1-1-1). The home team has taken five straight in the series, with a 3-2 edge to Saturday's hosts.
Tim Howard – Everton vs. Queens Park Rangers (Saturday, 10 am)
The only American goalkeeper to win an FA Cup final will start his run for a third championship match appearance against a side that probably will not include US teammate Oguchi Onyewu. Howard has won 23 of 34 lifetime games in the tourney, and lost just two of the last 14. He is 1-1-2 in four meetings with QPR, who dropped both of their prior FA Cup clashes with Everton.
FRENCH COUPE DE LA LIGUE
Alejandro Bedoya – Nantes vs Nice (Sunday, 8:15 am)
It is not clear whether the US attacker, who has four goals in his last 11 games, will take his usual place for this quarterfinal tilt. Bedoya fired the late winner when they topped third-round derby visitors Lorient, but was not involved in their round-of-16 victory. Nantes, who have never won this tournament, have posted three straight wins and four consecutive shutouts at home to Nice.
BEST OF THE REST
England (all FA Cup):
Jozy Altidore – Sunderland vs. Carlisle United, Sun. 9 am
Geoff Cameron – Stoke City vs. Leicester City, Sat. 10 am
Brad Guzan – Aston Villa vs. Sheffield United, Sat. 10 am
Duane Holmes – Huddersfield Town at Grimsby Town, Sat. 10 am on Fox Sports 2
Eric Lichaj – Nottingham Forest vs. West Ham United, Sun. 7 am on Fox Sports 2
Tim Ream – Bolton vs. Blackpool, Sat. 10 am
Brek Shea – Barnsley vs Coventry City, Sat. 10 am
Zak Whitbread – Derby County vs. Chelsea, Sun. 9:15 am on Fox Sports 1
Daniel Williams – Reading at Brighton & Hove Albion, Sat. 10 am
http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/03/american-exports-preview-will-clint-dempsey-suit-fulham-fa-cup? (http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/01/03/american-exports-preview-will-clint-dempsey-suit-fulham-fa-cup?)
USA boss Jurgen Klinsmann backs Clint Dempsey's move to Fulham
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Clint Dempsey: American forward back at Fulham
United States boss Jurgen Klinsmann is hoping that Clint Dempsey will make a big impression during his second spell at Fulham.
Dempsey has returned to Craven Cottage, where he spent five and a half seasons before moving to Tottenham in 2012, on a two-month loan spell from Seattle Sounders.
The forward, who struggled to make an impact at White Hart Lane before returning to the MLS, is hoping his stint back in the Premier League will help him rediscover his best form ahead of the World Cup in Brazil next summer.
"Obviously, we are pleased with Clint Dempsey, our captain, making the jump for two months to Fulham to get games in now," Klinsmann said.
"He had a very difficult couple of months because of injury and the transition back into MLS.
"I think it's a great decision from Clint to start off the year in the right way going on loan for two months to Fulham, his old team.
"They need him to get them back up in the table of the league, and he will come already in good shape back into MLS. That is great!
"Hopefully now he gets games with Fulham and then he comes in completely different shape back to MLS and continues that path towards the World Cup."
Meanwhile, Fulham's German full-back Sascha Riether believes Dempsey's return will give the team some welcome additional firepower.
"At the moment we are putting in a lot of crosses and creating a lot of chances," Riether said.
"Clint is a player who can score goals out of these chances. I hope he will do a great job like he did before.
"Clint wants to do well for this club. He's trained very well for us and is a fantastic player."
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/9100610/usa-boss-jurgen-klinsmann-backs-clint-dempseys-move-to-fulham? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/9100610/usa-boss-jurgen-klinsmann-backs-clint-dempseys-move-to-fulham?)
Tottenham Plot Surprise Move to Re-Sign Fulham Striker Dimitar Berbatov
Bulgarian ace linked with White Hart Lane return.
Tottenham are ready to join local rivals Arsenal in pursuit of Fulham forward Dimitar Berbatov according to Sports Direct News.
White Hart Lane boss Tim Sherwood reportedly wants to welcome the Bulgarian back to the North London club he represented for two seasons prior to his £30.75m move to Man United in September 2008.
Sherwood may well feel his side could do with a further injection of attacking nous given that summer signings Roberto Soldado and Erik Lamela have failed to impress and Jermain Defoe may be set to leave for pastures new.
Fortunately for Tottenham their Togo international forward Emmanuel Adebayor has hit a good run of form but Berbatov could offer more invention to the Spurs front-line.
Fulham are apparently ready to accept offers of just £2m for a player they know they could see leave Craven Cottage for nothing in the summer.
Berbatov struggled for form at the beginning of the season but has scored in each of his last three appearances and managed a very laudable total of 15 Premier League goals in his first season at the West London club.
http://www.caughtoffside.com/2014/01/03/tottenham-plot-surprise-move-to-re-sign-fulham-striker-dimitar-berbatov/? (http://www.caughtoffside.com/2014/01/03/tottenham-plot-surprise-move-to-re-sign-fulham-striker-dimitar-berbatov/?)
Fulham's Clint Dempsey handed relegation battle goal by Sascha Riether after returning on loan
Midfielder the Cottagers sold to Spurs in 2012 is back on loan from MLS side Seattle and defender is optimistic he'll shoot them away from the drop zone
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Sascha Riether reckons Clint Dempsey can score the goals to help keep Fulham in the Premier League.
The American ace has rejoined the Cottagers on a two-month loan deal from MLS side Seattle Sounders and could feature against Norwich in the FA Cup.
Dempsey smashed 60 goals during his five years with the Cottagers before his £6million switch to Spurs in 2012.
The Texan is temporarily back in SW6, and Riether hopes his new team-mate can boost their survival hopes.
"We put a lot of crosses into the box and create chances, and he can be the player to score goals," said the German defender. "I hope he will do a great job like he did before.
"He wants to do well for this club. He's trained very well and is a fantastic player. I hope he can help us."
Dempsey could start at Carrow Road as boss Rene Meulensteen plans to rings the changes following the win over West Ham on New Year's Day.
However, Riether insists the competition isn't a distraction from their basement battle. He added: "A cup is an opportunity to get into Europe. I don't think it's a hindrance. It's important for us to build confidence."
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Lee Clark: There's always something round the corner to deal with
Birmingham City: Lee Clark talks to Colin Tattum about his latest challenge at Blues
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Lee Clark
Photo: Roy Smiljanic/BPM
Lee Clark has vowed to deal with the latest thorny challenge in front of him at Birmingham City .
Clark has a defensive headache following Dan Burn's recall by Fulham from loan, coming after Kyle Bartley injured his hamstring.
Burn might return swiftly after Fulham's FA Cup tie against Norwich City today, but there are no guarantees.
Bartley has been ruled out for a minimum of three weeks after suffering the injury during the draw against Barnsley on New Year's Day.
Burn and Bartley have formed Blues central defensive pairing for the past five games - and have been a very good alliance.
But that has all gone to pot now and Clark has to consider what he can, or can't, do in the loan market himself as a result.
"There's always a new challenge, isn't there?" he said.
"There's always something round the corner to deal with.
"But that's what we have to do and we will get on with it.
"The frustration is that we've got to this stage where we're getting positive results, we've gone 10 unbeaten in an extremely tough league.
"We're four points from the top 10, seven points from the play-off places.
"But now two of the lads who have done so well during that run of form are no longer around.
"Fulham have seen how well Dan has been doing, they are short of defenders, and have recalled him.
"It was nothing to do with the relationship between the two clubs or anything like that, it was just down to their needs - he is their player.
"We're waiting for the results of the scan on Kyle but our medical people have told me that he is going to be at least three weeks out.
"We've currently got Paul Robinson on nine bookings and, somehow, I can't see him not picking up another yellow card in the next three or four months, which would mean a two-game ban.
"So we've got a bit of a problem defensively and it's something we have to address."
Centre-half Will Packwood is available again for Blues and left-back Amari'i Bell was recalled from loan to Nuneaton Town recently.
Hayden Mullins came on for Bartley against Barnsley and has played at centre-half before this season.
Reserve centre-half James Fry, who has been loaned to Leamington, is on the mend after a foot injury.
"We've got Paul Caddis, Mitchell Hancox, Hayden, Paul, Will and Amari'i," six defenders there," said Clark.
Hancox should have recovered from a hamstring injury in time for Blues next match, the trip to Brighton & Hove Albion a week on Saturday.
Neal Eardley, David Murphy and Jonathan Spector, who has also slotted in at the back this season, are long-term absentees.
Fulham currently have stopper Brede Hangeland sidelined with a sciatic nerve problem in his leg.
As to whether Fulham might allow Burn to return to St Andrew's after their FA Cup tie, Clark wasn't sure.
"The suggestion was that Dan has gone back for the game," he said, "but there's a new manager there.
"If Dan continues how he has been doing for us then the new manager might think 'hang on, I will keep him here'. It's a Catch 22 for us."
Blues were due to face either Crawley Town or Bristol Rovers in the third round of the FA Cup at home on Tuesday, but their second round replay today was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
So that meant next week's St Andrew's tie was also postponed as Crawley and Rovers will try again on Wednesday
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-lee-clark-talks-6466377? (http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/birmingham-city-lee-clark-talks-6466377?)
Former Tractor Boy David Stockdale bids to inflict fresh misery on Norwich City
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Fulham's ex-Ipswich loanee David Stockdale had the last laugh at Carrow Road on Boxing Day.
Picture by Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd
Fulham keeper David Stockdale insists the Cottagers will go all out to complete a quick double over Norwich City at Carrow Road.
The one-time Ipswich loanee enjoyed his Boxing Day visit after a 2-1 Premier League win provided the perfect response to the taunts of the home fans. Stockdale is likely to be on duty again in today's FA Cup third round return after impressing in the New Year's Day win over West Ham.
The 28-year-old has had a regular run in the Cottagers' line-up with first choice Maarten Stekelenburg injured and Stockdale has revealed not even that recent 6-0 league thumping at Hull dented his belief he can be a regular top flight performer.
"We thought it was such a freak result at Hull that we couldn't dwell on it. If we'd lost 1-0 in the last minute we might have thought about it more. My dad and my mates gave me stick and I think that helps," said Stockdale. "The head coach said to me, 'Are you okay?' I said, 'I'm fine - I lost 7-1 with Ipswich a couple of years ago'. These results happen in football. As a defence against West Ham we scrapped well, kept a clean sheet in the second half and if you do that you have a chance of winning.
"You can't think about results too much – we can't think about West Ham really now as we need to get back on the training pitch ahead of an FA Cup game at Norwich City that we want to win. We're delighted to get six points out of a possible nine over the festive period. We've now got to use these two victories to push on and get up that table."
Stockdale produced a superb reaction stop in midweek to deny Kevin Nolan a chance to double the Hammers' lead before the hosts hit back in style to claim vital points through Steve Sidwell and Dimitar Berbatov.
"I wouldn't say my save was pivotal," he told the club's official site. "I'd say the second goal was pivotal as it won us the game. I'm just doing my job and if I can keep the lads in the game, then so be it. It's not until afterwards that you think about it; at the time you just want the three points. We're in a relegation battle and we won't get out of it by sitting back and looking at individual performances - we have to play as a team. You saw the character we possess to come from 1-0 down. We had a little bit of help with the sending off but even at 1-0 we had chances to get back into it."
Fulham chief Rene Meulensteen recently added experienced duo Alan Curbishley and Ray Wilkins to his backroom staff and Stockdale believes those could prove key appointments in their survival bid. It's fantastic. If you look at our backroom team there's so much experience, it's phenomenal," he said. "We'll take over two dugouts if that's what it takes to get out of the relegation battle. I'll give them my seat on the bus and I'll walk – it really does help having those kind of people at the club. You really feel the difference."
http://www.edp24.co.uk/sport/norwich-city-fc/former_tractor_boy_david_stockdale_bids_to_inflict_fresh_misery_on_norwich_city_1_3175036 (http://www.edp24.co.uk/sport/norwich-city-fc/former_tractor_boy_david_stockdale_bids_to_inflict_fresh_misery_on_norwich_city_1_3175036)
Inside Carrow Road
Fulham kick-off their involvement in this season's FA Cup with Budweiser by making a Third Round trip to Carrow Road on Saturday. We caught up with Norwich City fan Terry Moore to get his take on the cup encounter.
People talk about the spirit of the cup, are you excited to see Norwich get the competition started on Saturday?
I love the FA Cup and, like everyone else, I watched the Third Round draw in anticipation. It's fair to say that we could have got an easier opponent, but I'm quietly confident nonetheless. This is one of the most famous competitions in world football, and it's fantastic to be part of that. For me, the spirit of the cup is very much alive, and I think we'll see that for sure at Carrow Road because fans young and old savour it. I say that even though we haven't had much to celebrate in this competition!
What are your standout memories from watching the Canaries in the cup?
My early football memories start in the mid-90s, and from that period, it has to be said that our cup run has never really lasted very long. I got my hopes up last season following an impressive 3-0 defeat of Peterborough United, but we then went and lost against Luton Town. I remember us taking Chelsea to a Replay in 2002 when they had the likes of Marcel Desailly, Gianfranco Zola, Frank Lampard and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink playing. But I suppose the FA Cup is about hope and what may unfold.
What sort of game are you anticipating on Saturday? Having lost to Fulham at home recently, you'll be hopeful for a change in fortune?
In my opinion, we're due a little bit of luck and I'm firmly of the belief that a good run in the cup can give you a real boost. It's about confidence and building momentum, and that's what I hope we can do from this game. We know the situation both teams find themselves in right now in the league, so it will be interesting to see how they approach this one. I think both Chris Hughton and René Meulensteen will be looking at the Barclays Premier League as their priority, so it's a chance to use the squad. I think it will be tight, and with both teams expected to make changes, a lot will come down to the players that come in. Which ones will seize the opportunity and make a difference?
What did you make of the Boxing Day game between the two sides?
I thought we played really well in the first half and, in fairness, it was a game that could have gone either way because Fulham played some decent stuff too. To Fulham's credit they kept on until the very end, and Scott Parker's strike was a worthy winner. At 1-1, Leroy Fer had a header cleared off the line and had that gone in, I like to think we would have seen the game through. But that's football.
You mentioned that this game is an opportunity for players to show what they can do. Which of those coming in for Norwich do you think could make the difference against Fulham?
I'd like to see Ricky van Wolfswinkel make a start, as we've seen him come off the bench in recent weeks. He scored on his debut in the 2-2 draw against Everton, but since then he hasn't found the target. I was really excited when the club announced his signing, and I maintain that he'll be an important player for us. He has clever movement, good feet and ability in the box. If he can get a goal against Fulham, I believe he'll go on to score a few more.
And, likewise, which of the visiting players do you think could provide the biggest threat on Saturday?
As mentioned, I think both teams will make changes. I'd be surprised if we didn't see Clint Dempsey make an appearance at some point, and in his first game back, he'll be looking to make a difference. He's a fantastic player and one we'll have to be very aware of. Adel Taarabt is enjoying a good run of form and on his day he can be unplayable. Fulham have a lot of youngsters coming through at the moment, so it will be interesting to see if any of them appear – I've heard good things about the young Moussa Dembélé.
We've entered 2014, what are your hopes for the remainder of the season?
I don't think I can hope for anything other than survival – which is the case for a lot of clubs. We finished 11th last season and, of course, that was the benchmark at the start of the campaign. But this is a tough league, and it's very tight in the bottom half. We took five points from our six games in December - I thought we would do better than that. But there's a lot to play for, and a good run in the FA Cup would certainly be nice.
Gary Hooper is starting to find the net, as demonstrated in the Boxing Day match. How important will his goals be?
I'm a big fan of Hooper, and having scored so freely at his former club Celtic there was a lot of pressure to do the same at Norwich. But he's playing in a very different league now and there was always going to be a bit of an adjustment period. He had to shake off an injury, too, but arguably right now, he's our in-form player. He's an opportunist in front of goal, and I think he has a massive part to play during the second half of the campaign.
Can you recommend a good place for the Fulham fans to grab a pint before the game?
There's loads of bars and pubs in Norwich, but for an away fan it's probably easiest to stay in the ones nearest the ground and station. A lot of travelling supporters go to The Compleat Angler which is right by the station – it's also a quick walk to the stadium.
What's the best thing about Carrow Road?
I like to think that the Fulham fans will be surprised by the atmosphere. I go to a lot of away games, and I think we do a good job at Carrow Road. I know a couple of Fulham supporters, and both have said that they enjoy the Norfolk banter. It's a welcoming place, and as an away trip goes, it's not too far out of the way.
Can we move you into making a score prediction for the game ahead - how will this one finish?
I think it will be another 2-1, but this time it will be Norwich that claim the win.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/03/inside-carrow-road (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/03/inside-carrow-road)
No Real Arsenal Interest in Berbatov!
All the talk yesterday, or it might have been the day before, related to a possible move for Dimitar Berbatov.
Speculation doing the rounds suggested that Arsene Wenger might raid Craven Cottage to take Dmitar Berbatov to the Emirates Stadium, speculation possibly fuelled by the fact that Dimitar had previously inferred he wanted out once the January transfer window opened aided by the fact he had only six months left on his contract.
Well it appears that it was all pie in the sky as Arsene Wenger has, according to the media, come out and confirmed he has no interest in signing the ageing Bulgarian.
Good news for Fulham supporters I`d say.
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=344190#ixzz2pQy7Yb9m (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=344190#ixzz2pQy7Yb9m)
Clint`s Chance to Shine?
This afternoon, at Carrow Road, there is a chance that Clint Dempsey will make his Fulham debut for the second time.
The Texan, on loan from the MLS club, Seattle Sounders, scored 60 goals in his first spell with is and Fulham supporters will be hoping that Clint can bring back some of that added aerial prowess to the side.
Sascha Riether, discussing Clint`s second coming has remarked to the media,
"We put a lot of crosses into the box ad create chances, and he can be the player to score goals."
"He wants to do well for this club. He`s trained very well and is a fantastic player."
I wonder what the odds are on Clint getting the winner this afternoon?
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=344192#ixzz2pQyI8ZQK (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=344192#ixzz2pQyI8ZQK)
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