http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/fulham-is-the-place-for-me-says-happy-hungarian? (http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/fulham-is-the-place-for-me-says-happy-hungarian?)
Fulham is the place for me, says happy Hungarian
Zoltan Gera insists that all roads DON'T lead to Rome
Roy Hodgson might be attracting interest from Milan, but Zoltan Gera says he's not ready to swap West London for Rome.
The Hungarian midfielder, who played a huge part in the Fulham's Europa League adventure, has been linked with a move to Italian giants Roma, whilst manager Hodgson could be on Inter's radar.
"I'm contracted to the club and I feel good here, the season was like I planned," said the 31-year-old former West Brom player.
"My aim is to play like I did or even better. If the atmosphere is good and the teammates are good it's only a part of how I feel.
"What really matters is how I play football. If a player doesn't do his job well then usually he wants to leave, if he performs well then he usually wants to stay and continue everything.
"At the age of 31 I don't think I'm getting older as a footballer, what's more - I feel better and better. I hope the best is yet to come."
Fulham did brilliantly to reach the Europa League final, only to lose to Atletico after some memorable European nights at the Cottage.
Gera added: "When I signed for Fulham I knew they were a strong team. Although they were almost relegated our recent run proves I made the right choice.
"I still have a dubious feeling about our lost final in Hamburg. It's a fiasco because we lost but also a success as we could get there.
"It would have been nice to win the right to start in the Europa League, unfortunately we couldn't achieve it but it means that we can concentrate only on the Premier League."
http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/05/24/fulham-face-a-fight-to-keep-roy-hodgson-if-inter-milan-come-knoc/? (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/05/24/fulham-face-a-fight-to-keep-roy-hodgson-if-inter-milan-come-knoc/?)
Fulham Face a Fight to Keep Roy Hodgson if Inter Milan Come Knocking
Fulham fully deserved the plaudits they received for reaching the Europa League Final after manager Roy Hodgson defied the odds to beat teams such as Juventus, Hamburg and Shakhtar Donetsk.
Indeed, the west London side came agonisingly close to winning the title against Atletico Madrid, but their journey to the final has come at a price, with Hodgson shooting to the top of many clubs' managerial wishlists.
It is hardly surprising given what he achieved with Fulham. The Cottagers have been forced to live in the shadows of noisy neighbours Chelsea and had often scraped their way through relegation battles under previous managers Chris Coleman and Lawrie Sanchez.
The club's chairman Mohamed Al Fayed, the former Harrods owner, kept Fulham afloat without spending ludicrous sums of money, so Coleman and Sanchez had to do the best with the player at their disposal.
That all changed under Hodgson, who introduced a new and effective playing style and saved them from almost certain relegation in his first season.
Hodgson breathed new life into Fulham and reignited Al-Fayed's enthusiasm for the club. culminating in their seventh placed finish in 2008-09.
This campaign it was all about the Europa League, where Fulham punched above their weight - largely thanks to the form of strikers, Bobby Zamora and Zoltan Gera.
This unlikely partnership only served to inflate Hodgson's reputation further as he got the best out of his squad.
Then again, maybe there should not have been so many eyebrows raised about the canny 62-year-old's impact at Craven Cottage.
After all, his CV boasts spells in charge of Inter Milan, Switzerland and Finland, but his two seasons in the capital have been his most impressive, so it is not surprising that Inter are weighing up the idea of making him their next manager.
Hodgson has always spoken admiringly about the Italian champions. During his time at the San Siro in 1995 to 1997 he oversaw a rebuilding exercise that was not fully rewarded before he departed for Blackburn.
His replacement in Italy, Luigi Simoni, reaped the benefits of Hodgson's hard work and perhaps this is an issue that still burns deep inside Hodgson.
Towards the end of last season, he was asked about rumours that he would join Liverpool this summer. Hodgson refused to rebuff the question and insisted he was "flattered" by the link.
And, while he was quick to point out he still had a contract with Fulham, his response did little to suggest to those in attendance that he would not welcome a move to a larger club.
There would be no bigger club to join at this moment than Serie A, Coppa Italia and Champions League winners Inter Milan.
Manager Jose Mourinho is poised to to walk out and join Real Madrid in the summer, leaving the door open for Hodgson, who has always enjoyed a good relationship with the club's president Massimo Moratti.
Hodgson's career, just like Mourinho's, is made up of short managerial spells lasting on average two seasons before moving on to a new challenge.
And the lure of Inter would almost certainly be too strong for Hodgson to resist as he makes his final swansong in management.
Should he leave, it would be a huge blow to Fulham. After seasons of trying to hold on to their best players, they now face the prospect of trying to hold on to their manager.
If he quits, it is fair to assume he will not want to take any Fulham players with him, but his departure will still be enough to affect the club's current momentum.
Inter's interest is also bad news in itself for Al-Fayed, who has sold Harrods and was looking to invest more money into Fulham. However, he would only do it with a man he trusts - and that man is Hodgson.
Al-Fayed had his fingers burned once before when Jean Tigana spent £11.5m on flop striker Steve Marlet and he will not make the same mistake again.
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/5/24/1485084/cottagers-daily-rumor-mill-second? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/5/24/1485084/cottagers-daily-rumor-mill-second?)
Cottagers Daily Rumor Mill: Second Edition. Zoltan Gera seems happy at Fulham but there is a link to Roma
Well, the rumors of Fulham's players continue this morning. The good news is one player might not have interest in leaving. According to the Skysports.com article "Gera not interested in Roma", Zoltan Gera is insisting he is happy at Craven Cottage. The article also mentions that links to a transfer to another club does not bother him.
The Skysports.com article has a link to Roma having in interest in the Hungarian player. The article has a couple of quotes from Gera.
According to the Skysports.com article Gera stated " I'm contracted to the club and I feel good here, the season was like I planned. "My aim is to play like I did or even better. If the atmosphere is good and the team-mates are good it's only a part of how I feel."
Zoltan Gera in my opinion was a huge contributor last year to Fulham's success. It is great to see a player who seems to really want to be at Craven Cottage. If there is anything more to this story I will report it.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1280980/Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-linked-shock-Inter-Milan-return-Jose-Mourinhos-replacement.html?ITO=1490 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1280980/Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-linked-shock-Inter-Milan-return-Jose-Mourinhos-replacement.html?ITO=1490)
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson linked with shock Inter Milan return as Jose Mourinho's replacement
Inter Milan have been linked with a shock move for former boss and current Fulham manager Roy Hodgson.
The Italian giants claimed their third European Cup win on Saturday night with a 2-0 win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League final at the Bernabeu, but are set to lose head coach Jose Mourinho to Real Madrid.
Hodgson has an excellent reputation at the San Siro thanks to two previous spells in charge of the Nerazzuri and after inspiring Fulham to this season's Europa League final, a feat he also managed with the Italians in 1997.
The 62-year-old boss is 'always welcome' at Inter, according to president Massimo Moratti, and the Serie A champions have already made initial inquiries about Hodgson's availability, according to The Mirror.
Hodgson took charge of Inter for the first time between 1995 and 1997. He returned as caretaker manager for a short spell in 1999.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1280980/Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-linked-shock-Inter-Milan-return-Jose-Mourinhos-replacement.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0ov2FEzPk (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1280980/Fulham-boss-Roy-Hodgson-linked-shock-Inter-Milan-return-Jose-Mourinhos-replacement.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0ov2FEzPk)
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199673 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199673)
Fulham - Inter Target Roy!
With Jose Mourinho having covered himself in glory and now bound for a spell with Real Madrid, Inter Milan are looking for a new manager!
Unfortunately, the tabloid press are implying that they`re looking in our direction and could well be trying to lure Roy Hodgson back to the San Siro.
Roy has previously enjoyed two spells at the San Siro, the second as caretaker, and at sixty-two years of age this could well be the last hurrah he`s looking for.
I`m sure I speak for many when I say that I hope Roy stays at Craven Cottage but would we really blame Roy if he did decide that a beckoning San Siro is too good an offer to turn down as he approaches the twilight years of his managerial career!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199673#ixzz0ov2Si3kD (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199673#ixzz0ov2Si3kD)
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199672 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199672)
Fulham - Potential Targets?
The gossip columns are remarkably quiet again today!
Apart from the Milan and Roy Hodgson rumour, our name isn`t linked to any of the players mentioned as being possible transfer targets.
Therefore, with it being so quiet, we thought we`d use this opportunity to speculate a little ourselves and gauge your thoughts on two players that have made the headlines today.
The first is Stephen Hunt
Hunt, who signed for Hull City after leaving reading, is on the move again and various clubs are interested in signing the Republic of Ireland international. With Hull suffering the indignity of relegation, the wage bill has to be cut and Hunt could certainly do a job, in midfield or out wide for a number of clubs.
The second is Charles N`Zogbia
N`Zogbia is a cultured left sided player who looks destined to leave Wigan Athletic for pastures new. Prior to joining Wigan he played for Newcastle. N`Zogbia, on his day, is able to influence matches and his left foot is capable of the most stunning strikes.
Now, considering who we currently have plus any anticipated transfer fees involved, do you believe Hunt and N`Zogbia would be suitable targets for Fulham?
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199672#ixzz0ov2qAuu0 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199672#ixzz0ov2qAuu0)
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199675 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199675)
Fulham - Another Villa Target?
After taking Nicky Shorey on loan from Aston Villa last season, the gossip columns have us linked to another Villa full back today.
Luke Young, who made his reputation with Charlton Athletic is looking to return to London after convincing himself that he`ll not be able to dispose Carlos Cuellar from the right back spot at Villa Park.
In fact it`s a somewhat disgruntled picture of Young painted by the tabloid running the story with the implication that Young believes no matter how hard he tries he`s never afforded the same treatment as some of other players at Villa.
With Martin O`Neill having to sell this summer before he can buy, he`ll be hoping that this rumoured interest from Fulham, and also from a London rival of ours in West Ham could go on to generate some cash to rebuild his own side.
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199675#ixzz0ov3C3Ni6 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199675#ixzz0ov3C3Ni6)
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199674 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199674)
Fulham - And Your Runner Up Was?
Having already named Bobby Zamora as your 'Player of the Year` via our front page poll, the next step was to see who, via a separate poll, you`d nominate as runner-up.
Therefore, with Bobby`s name removed from the list of candidates, the poll was re-cycled to see who you would vote into second place.
The leading candidates, prior to poll closure, were Zoltan Gera and Mark Schwarzer with Zoltan emerging as the winner with 36% of the vote.
Our thanks go to all those who participated.
Our latest poll reflects the apparent interest in our manager from Inter Milan!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199674#ixzz0ov3aAKN6 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199674#ixzz0ov3aAKN6)
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/May/KappaAnnouncement.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/May/KappaAnnouncement.aspx?)
Kappa Deal
Monday 24th May 2010
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Logos/kappa.gif)
Fulham Football Club is delighted to announce Kappa as its new Technical Sponsor and Official Supplier of sportswear for the next three seasons. The deal will commence at the start of the 2010/11 campaign.
Kappa, a leading brand in European sportswear, has developed an innovative Kombat shirt for the Fulham Football Club squad at its Kappa R&D centre in Turin, Italy, to the finest quality and design standards.
Fulham Football Club will be the only Premier League team sponsored by Kappa next season and follow in the footsteps of AS Roma, Sampdoria, Dortmund, Copenhagen and Valencia who have all previously worked alongside the renowned manufacturer.
The new kit will continue to be in Fulham's traditional black and white, and will incorporate the well-known Omini Kappa logo of the back-to-back male and female silhouette.
Fulham Football Club CEO, Alistair Mackintosh, said: "Fulham Football Club is delighted to be partnered with Kappa for the forthcoming seasons. They are an innovative, stylish and sophisticated sportswear brand that complement and embody the core values of Fulham. The partnership will be of great benefit to all areas of the business and we look forward to successful seasons working alongside them."
Simon Bamber, Kappa CEO commented: "We are delighted to be associated with Fulham Football Club. Their unique positioning, style and heritage fit perfectly with our own ambitions. Also their recent success and the incredible energy that is part of the Craven Cottage experience makes us very excited to be part of the Club's next chapter of their incredible journey."
Tailored collections for all training and leisurewear will be available in time for the start of the next season. The home and away strips are due to be unveiled this June with availability to buy from July.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/May/KappaAnnouncement.aspx?#ixzz0ov4GDz4y (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/May/KappaAnnouncement.aspx?#ixzz0ov4GDz4y)
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199691 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199691)
Fulham - Gera Wants to Stay
At 31 years old and with a mixed couple of seasons by the Thames behind him, I have to say I was slightly surprised by Sky Sports' suggestion that Zoltan Gera was attracting quite a few top European clubs; Roma to name but one.
His first year at the Cottage was far from prolific whilst his second term has highlighted inconsistencies between his League form and his European form.
He was, of course, a major part of our European success and, overall, has had a very pleasing year.
However, age is not on his side and you'd be hard stretched to say he was a certain first-teamer here at Fulham.
That's exactly why the Roma link confuses me a little. Technically, he is a gifted player and he provides a lot, but I could never see him getting into their starting 11 and holding his place down.
Maybe then, the Hungarian had foreseen this conclusion once the rumours had been printed, and he has gone out of his way to pledge his not-so-distant future to Fulham, claiming he wants nothing but success with the Cottagers.
'I'm contracted to the club and I feel good here, the season was like I planned,' he told SkySports.
'My aim is to play like I did or even better. If the atmosphere is good and the team-mates are good it's only a part of how I feel.
'What really matters is how I play football. If a player doesn't do his job well then usually he wants to leave, if he performs well then he usually wants to stay and continue everything.
'At the age of 31 I don't think I'm getting older as a footballer, what's more - I feel better and better. I hope the best is yet to come.'
Let's hope so Zoltan!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199691#ixzz0ov4ZdEQe (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=199691#ixzz0ov4ZdEQe)
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/05/24/kappa-kit-deal/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/05/24/kappa-kit-deal/?)
Kappa kit deal
Filed under: General — weltmeisterclaude @ 7:07 pm
Good news.
Sort of anyway. The previous Nike teamwear deal was slightly inhibiting in that we were using 'template' kits that were also in use in 5-a-side leagues throughout the land. Which was a strange thing.
Now we've got away from that, and gone for Kappa.
Kappa gear looks amazing. About a year ago I tried on a Kappa coat.
I didn't buy it though.
The reason was that it was skin tight.
The shirts were the same.
And here lies the Kappa issue: those shirts are thoroughly unforgiving. They'll look excellent, especially on trained athletes, but perhaps not on the rest of us. Oh well. In the big scheme of things this is a good move.
http://fulhamish.blogspot.com/2010/05/hec-2009-10-end-of-season-awards.html? (http://fulhamish.blogspot.com/2010/05/hec-2009-10-end-of-season-awards.html?)
HEC 2009-10 End Of Season - Awards
HEC has been very hit or miss this season and I'm planning on calling it a day very soon. Might do a write up of the Hamburg trip, for my own benefit if no one else's. Anyway, couldn't leave a season like the last without doing my end of season awards. It's been a thrilling ride from start to finish, the best season I've ever witnessed, and quite possibly the best ever for our club. Whatever happens in the future, if Roy stays or goes, if the squad gets stronger or quietly goes their separate ways, 2009-10 will stand tall amongst greatest campaigns we've completed.
Player of the Season: Bobby Zamora - This was a really tough call with five players being genuine candidates. For me Zamora has been the stand out player. The injury to Andy Johnson not only left Bobby ploughing a lone furrow but changed the way we played football. Zamora has been outstanding as our target man, held the ball up as well as he ever did but also scored an impressive tally of goals. His all round game has reached new levels and he was deservedly linked with the England squad. Aaron Hughes was a very close second, an almost ever present who has been remarkably consistent, and Clint Dempsey, Zoltan Gera and Damien Duff all deserve praise. (Last season: Brede Hangeland)
Young Player of Season: Chris Smalling - Had he not claimed an unexpected transfer to Man United mid-way through the season he might have garnered more praise. As it turned out that £10Million+ agreement seemed to cause a small loss of focus. Despite this he has impressed, making the third choice centre back spot his own and earning the club a tidy profit in the process. He was a surprise inclusion in some of the earlier Europa League games but acquitted himself well. Followed that up with a first Premier League start against the dark side, in which he was unfortunate to score an own goal. His most extended run in the side came after the switch to Old Trafford had been agreed and saw the team struggling for form. It certainly seemed like we'd got the better end of the deal, but stronger performances at home to Wolves and West Ham and away at Everton suggest he may indeed go on to greater things. (Last season: Wayne Brown)
Best New Signing: Damien Duff - Duff's signing was the most exciting of our summer transfer news but we all must have wondered whether he could get anywhere near the form that had seen his value reach £17Million. Of course he'd achieved this feat partly under Roy's tutelage and it didn't take him long to settle in. His debut came in the 74th minute at home to Amkar Perm. He received the ball almost as soon as he stepped onto the pitch, side stepped a Russian defender, burst to the by-line and sent a rocket of a cross which looped up off Nevland's head before being lashed into the net by Zamora with a ferocity that almost broke the net. 75 minutes on the clock, some start. Duffer went on to have a great season, consistently a threat down the flank and a regular goal scoring contributor. (Last Season: Mark Schwarzer)
Goal of the Season: Bobby Zamora v Shaktar Donetsk - We scored a lot of great goals this season and this is another tough category to pick. Dempsey's goal against Juventus was right up there and Digger's goal against Hamburg a close third. Both those goals were arguably more important but there was something extra special about Bobby's strike against Shaktar. It came with the match evenly balanced but our chances of winning the tie still a long way from anyone's thoughts. A slick passing move saw Gera somehow flick the ball on to Bobby who let the ball roll then lashed home a bullet of a shot. The Donetsk 'keeper stood no chance and as it smacked off the underside of the crossbar and smashed into the back of the net we rose as one to applaud a wonder strike. (Last Season: Zoltan Gera v Man Utd)
Moment of the Season: Dempsey's goal vs Juve - OK, so I couldn't let this goal go unrewarded. The Juventus game was the most remarkable achievement and as fine an advert for European football as you're likely to find. Clint's pulled off the unexpected so many times that you almost think he couldn't surprise you any more. And then he does. From my vantage point in the Hammy End I was directly in line with Dempsey and that top corner. Everything happened in slow motion. I initially thought he had over hit a cross. Then I thought it was a shot about to scoop over the bar. As it began it's descent we all realised where it was heading. You could see it in the eyes of Juve 'keeper Chimenti as well. Oh. My. God! Top corner, 4-1, game over! A stunning goal to win a stunning game. (Last Season: Finishing 7th and reaching Europe)
Most Improved Player: Zoltan Gera - Again, there are a few contenders for this award. Chris Baird has not only shown he's capable at both right back and centre back but settled into a new role as midfield anchor. Bobby Zamora has added a massive dose of confidence to his game and turned himself into some sort of super hero. But it's Zolly who for me has made the most remarkable improvement. Europe has helped in this. Also, the loss of AJ which opened up the role of playing someone in the hole behind Zamora. I always thought of Gera as more of a central player and he's flourished with the freedom this role allows him. He's also gained confidence from his success which has allowed him to play in a wide role to greater effect. His work rate wherever he plays has been second to none and it's lovely to hear his name sung so loudly by the crowd. (Last season: Dickson Etuhu)
Most Disappointing Player: Greening - Jono has shown glimpses of what he can do and if the example of Zamora and Gera are an inspiration he could go on to become an important player for our club but there's no question he's not had the best of seasons. For me, the final straw came in the F.A. cup quarter final at home to Spurs. Too many sideways or backwards passes, no creativity or vision to see a way through the defence. Maybe the midfield anchor will be the role he ultimately plays but I was expecting more when he arrived and I'm sure he's capable of better things. (Last season: No award)
Most Underrated Player: Paul Konchesky - Underrated specifically by me. I was becoming a bit of a Konch critic before he was injured in January. Nicky Shorey's arrival seemed a breath of fresh air and I was singing the loan boys praises. Then Konch returned and showed just why he was first choice left back. Defensively solid and a definite threat going forward. (Last season: Aaron Hughes for 2nd time!)
Player Performance: Gera v Juve - I could nominate Zoltan for any number of his performances in Europe. This was a genuine team effort but Gera's willingness to run and run played a vital part in the win. (Last season: Murphy v Swansea City)
Team Performance: Home v Juve - Absolutely the best game I've ever seen. I'm running out of superlatives but this was a spectacular team effort against one of the giants of European football. (Last season: Home v Man Utd)
Best Opposition: Shaktar Donetsk - Pinpoint passing at 100 miles an hour. Shaktar were incredible and I'm still amazed we found a way to beat them. (Last season: Manchester United)
Best Opposition Player: Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid) - I didn't really appreciate it at the time but the 21 year old Argentinean really made Atletico tick. Effectively created both goals for his strike partner Forlan (though the first one was a scuffed shot) and caused us all sorts of problems in the middle of the park. (Last season: Stephen Piennar of Everton)
Best Goal Celebration: Simon Davies v Atletico - Simon Davies' Toto Schillaci impression as he pulled us level was perfect. He's struggled to find form and overcome injury this season but as our European tour extended he got better and better. Seeing the welsh man bursting with joy having pulled us level with a fine volley was another special moment. (Last season: Zoltan Gera v Man Utd)
Quote of the Year: Roy Hodgson "It's nice I'm being linked here and there, but it's not something I was aware of. We all know its part of football. We also know the sword has two sides. One minute the sword is tapping you on your shoulder and asking you to arise, the next thing it's being used to cut your head off." - Roy is full of wonderful wit and wisdom. He's made many comments that I've thought perfectly sum up our season. It's no wonder he's being linked with some top jobs, you wouldn't begrudge him the opportunity but I really hope he stays
http://www.tribalfootball.com/bolton-not-line-hull (http://www.tribalfootball.com/bolton-not-line-hull)'s-bullard-860781
Bolton not in line for Hull's Bullard
Bolton Wanderers have confirmed they are not in line for the services of Hull City midfielder Jimmy Bullard.
Trotters boss Owen Coyle, who was believed to be ready to make a move for the 31-year old this summer, said he admired Bullard but had no intentions of bringing him to the Reebok Stadium.
"Jimmy is a great player but he's not on our radar at Bolton," Coyle told the Bolton News.
"We have got some quality players in his position already at this football club.
"There hasn't been any dialogue from me, so I suppose it's the usual speculation you get in silly season, as I call it.
"I'm sure we'll be linked with everyone at this time of the year."
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/05/25/erik-nevland-eyes-coaching-job-when-he-retires-64767-26515557/ (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/05/25/erik-nevland-eyes-coaching-job-when-he-retires-64767-26515557/)
Erik Nevland eyes coaching job when he retires
FORMER Fulham frontman Erik Nevland plans to be a coach when he finally hangs up his boots – but only if the players in front of him are no higher than his waist.
The Norwegian striker has quit the Cottage to return to home club Viking Stavanger, and then revealed he wants to coach kids.
He said: "Senior coaching is not for me. I can see how the likes of Danny Murphy is going to be a great manager some day – he's a natural – but I think I could enjoy teaching young kids more."
http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/05/25/why-mark-schwarzer-is-the-short-term-answer-to-arsenals-goalkee/ (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/05/25/why-mark-schwarzer-is-the-short-term-answer-to-arsenals-goalkee/)
Why Mark Schwarzer is the Short-term Answer to Arsenal's Goalkeeper Woes
Only Arsene Wenger knows whether Mark Schwarzer, the Fulham goalkeeper, really is in with a chance of a summer switch to Arsenal.
But the fact that the Australia international's name has been linked with such a move, albeit among plenty of others in that position, says much about the two London teams.
Though manager Roy Hodgson, now seemingly coveted by his former club Inter Milan, and striker Bobby Zamora were the men who captured the most headlines between them, Fulham's journey all the way to the Europa League final, where they were narrowly beaten in extra time by Atletico Madrid, could not have been achieved without a goalkeeper in peak form.
Conversely, many of Arsenal's woes at home and abroad stemmed from the lack of a commanding presence between the posts. First-choice Manuel Almunia showed himself to be too erratic to be regarded in the same bracket as his rivals for the title in Chelsea's Petr Cech and Edwin van der Sar of Manchester United, while the man who filled in when he was unavailable fared even worse.
Though Wenger repeatedly insisted he still believed Lukasz Fabianski was a talent whose time would soon come, the Pole was guilty of some jaw-dropping errors.
His communications breakdown with Sol Campbell in Porto, which saw the pair conspire to give away an indirect free-kick in the box by picking up a back-pass and then standing and watching while the opposition took it quickly and scored, did not result in a Champions League exit as the Gunners won comfortably in the second leg in London.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2557/news/2010/05/25/1941620/official-former-fulham-boss-jean-tigana-named-laurent-blancs (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2557/news/2010/05/25/1941620/official-former-fulham-boss-jean-tigana-named-laurent-blancs)
OFFICIAL: Former Fulham boss Jean Tigana named Laurent Blanc's successor at Bordeaux
The former Fulham and Besiktas trainer will lead les Girondins next term...
Girondins de Bordeaux have made the appointment of Jean Tigana as their head coach, presenting the 54-year-old as their new boss via a statement on their official website.
After a tepid end to the campaign, Laurent Blanc elected to step down from his role at the Stade Chaban-Delmas to take charge of France. Little over a week after le President's announcement, and after much speculation, Tigana has been named as the new face to lead Bordeaux into next season.
"He must now write a new page in the history of Bordeaux. The club stresses that this arrival is a strong mark of ambition and a strong desire for continuity in the offensive game," a statement on the club's official website stated.
L'Equipe has suggested that Tigana will be awarded a two-year deal at the Aquitaine club, though that will likely be confirmed when the former midfielder, who turned out so successfully for les Marine et Blanc from 1981-89, is presented formally to the media on Tuesday afternoon.
http://www.sportspromedia.com/deals/_a/new_kappa_deal_for_fulham/?utm_source=Syndication+Websites&utm_campaign=Syndication+Websites&utm_medium=syndication_websites (http://www.sportspromedia.com/deals/_a/new_kappa_deal_for_fulham/?utm_source=Syndication+Websites&utm_campaign=Syndication+Websites&utm_medium=syndication_websites)
New Kappa deal for European surprise package Fulham
Contract summary
Length of contract: 3 years
Annualised value: US$2 million
Overall value: US$6 million
English Premier League soccer club Fulham FC has agreed a three-year sponsorship and kit supply deal with Kappa.
The Italian sportswear firm will pay around US$2 million to supply the team's home and away jerseys and training wear, and will also produce a range of replica apparel for Fulham's supporters to go on sale in July. The Cottagers will be the only team to be sponsored by Kappa in next season's Premier League.
Fulham FC chief executive Alistair Mackintosh said: "Fulham Football Club is delighted to be partnered with Kappa for the forthcoming seasons. They are an innovative, stylish and sophisticated sportswear brand that complement and embody the core values of Fulham. The partnership will be of great benefit to all areas of the business and we look forward to successful seasons working alongside them."
Simon Bamber, the chief executive of Kappa, added: "We are delighted to be associated with Fulham Football Club. Their unique positioning, style and heritage fit perfectly with our own ambitions. Also their recent success and the incredible energy that is part of the Craven Cottage experience makes us very excited to be part of the Club's next chapter of their incredible journey."
Fulham enjoyed a memorable 2009/10 season, which included an outstanding run to the final of the Uefa Europa League. The south-west London club lost 2-1 to Atletico Madrid, of Spain's La Liga, after extra time.
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/5/25/1486463/cottagers-daily-rumor-mill-are (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/5/25/1486463/cottagers-daily-rumor-mill-are)
Cottagers Daily Rumor Mill: Are Fulham and Rangers leading up the interest for Joe Ledley of Cardiff City?
I noticed this interesting rumor today in the Scottish Sun. This article mentions Fulham as a possible landing spot for Joe Ledley of Cardiff City. It also states that Rangers are also in hot pursuit. The player is a Welsh international and only a 23 years old midfielder. He recently scored in Cardiff City's loss to Blackpool in the Football League Championship Playoff Final.
According to the Scottish Sun, Rangers are expected to make an aggressive bid for his services. The article mentions that the idea of playing Champions League Football could make the move attractive for Ledley.
As stated earlier, the The Scottish Sun mentions Fulham as a team that is set to go after Ledley. West Ham, Blackburn, and Stoke City are clubs also said to be monitoring his availability.
Quote from: WhiteJC on May 25, 2010, 01:30:56 PM
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/05/25/erik-nevland-eyes-coaching-job-when-he-retires-64767-26515557/ (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/05/25/erik-nevland-eyes-coaching-job-when-he-retires-64767-26515557/)
Erik Nevland eyes coaching job when he retires
FORMER Fulham frontman Erik Nevland plans to be a coach when he finally hangs up his boots – but only if the players in front of him are no higher than his waist.
The Norwegian striker has quit the Cottage to return to home club Viking Stavanger, and then revealed he wants to coach kids.
He said: "Senior coaching is not for me. I can see how the likes of Danny Murphy is going to be a great manager some day – he's a natural – but I think I could enjoy teaching young kids more."
Erik the Viking is a class act.
http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/2985931/Gers-lining-up-Ledley.html (http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/2985931/Gers-lining-up-Ledley.html)
RANGERS have launched a dramatic bid to land Cardiff City's £8million-rated midfielder Joe Ledley - for NOTHING.
SunSport can reveal Ibrox boss Walter Smith has identified the Wales international as one of his top summer targets.
Rising star Ledley, 23, will quit the Bluebirds following their defeat to Blackpool in Saturday's Championship play-off final.
A host of Premier League clubs, led by Europa League finalists Fulham, are set to pounce for the highly-rated playmaker.
Smith is a huge admirer of the 27-times capped midfielder and is prepared to make him one of his highest earners at Ibrox.
Gers expect to free up around £50,000 a week from their wage bill by letting go the likes of Kris Boyd, DaMarcus Beasley, Nacho Novo, Stevie Smith and possibly even Double-winning skipper David Weir.
Ledley would command around HALF that sum, with his demands likely to be closer to the £25,000-a-week mark.
But the powerbrokers at Lloyds Bank could be persuaded to give the deal the green light as they will view Ledley as a player who could be sold on at a huge profit in the future.
It would be a major coup for Gers if they could tempt Ledley into quitting English football. He is regarded as a bright young talent with a massive future south of the border.
However the lure of Champions League football with the SPL champs could prove to be an attraction for a player who has been watched by Gers assistant Ally McCoist on several occasions.
Ledley, who scored Cardiff's second goal in the 3-2 defeat by Blackpool at Wembley, will not be short of big-money offers this summer.
Long-time admirers Wigan made a whopping £8.2m bid in January which was immediately rejected by the Bluebirds.
But that written offer means clubs in England would face a transfer tribunal to sign him - with his market value down in black and white.
West Ham, Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers are all also monitoring Ledley's situation, but fear being stung with a massive transfer fee.
Gers, on the other hand, would not have to pay a penny to land him as Ledley is still only 23 and can move across the border with no fee going to Cardiff.
___
Any sources about Ledley's contract situation?
My sources say that he's out of contract in July. But the Sun says that there are bids in for him. Seems a bit strange - can anyone enlighten me?
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Stoke-stars-Ricardo-Fuller-and-Matthew-Etherington-told-to-be-patient-as-they-eye-up-new-deals-article438215.html
Stoke stars told to be patient as they eye up new deals
Published 22:45 24/05/10
By Football Spy
Stoke stars Ricardo Fuller and Matthew Etherington have been told to be patient as chairman Peter Coates admits the club is in no hurry to offer them new deals.
Striker Fuller, 30, and winger Etherington, 28, are keen for extensions on their present contracts to ensure they are on a level playing field with the club's top earners.
Coates insists he does not fear either player leaving the Britannia Stadium this summer, despite Fuller attracting interest from Fulham.
Coates said: "They have two years left of their present contracts. Whether we extend them or not, let's see how things progress between now and the start of the season.
"We look at these things and take a view so we have the comfort of them both having two years on their contracts.
"That is very good for Stoke City - there is no pressure there for us.
"They are both very fine players and both highly valued by the club. That is why they have the contracts they have.
"That is what you do to protect your interests."
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Birmingham-planning-6m-swoop-for-Valencia-strike-star-Nikola-Zigic-article438195.html
Birmingham planning £6m swoop for Valencia strike star
Published 23:00 24/05/10
By James Nursey
Birmingham are confident of making Valencia striker Nikola Zigic their second major summer signing in a £6million swoop.
Who the hell is Nikola Zigic? Everything you need to know about the Birmingham transfer target
Brum last week bought goalkeeper Ben Foster from Manchester United for £5million.
And they now hope to tie up 6ft 8in Serbian Zigic on a bumper three-year deal.
City are believed to have agreed a fee of around £6m with the forward's Spanish club and hope Zigic will agree to join before the World Cup.
Birmingham have been trailing Zigic since last November when their interest was first revealed by Mirror Sport.
Brum boss Alex McLeish is still after another striker as well, with Fulham's Bobby Zamora his first choice.
But Zamora wants more than £40,000-a-week in personal terms and City have other choices, including free agent Kris Boyd and Burnley's Steven Fletcher.
McLeish has cooled his interest in West Ham's Carlton Cole after being quoted £15m by former Brum owner David Sullivan.
But McLeish remains keen on a new left-back with Fulham's Paul Konchesky firmly in his sights.
While Birmingham also hope to lure Wigan's Charles N'Zogbia to play on the left flank and Celtic's Aiden McGeady on the right.
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-star-Damien-Duff-is-on-a-wing-and-a-prayer-for-the-Republic-of-Ireland-article438331.html
Duff is on a wing and a prayer for Ireland
Published 22:45 24/05/10
By MirrorFootball
Giovanni Trapattoni will reach for the prayer mat after conceding that an injury-free Damien Duff is the key to Ireland's Euro 2012 assault.
The winger is coming off the back of a magnificent but exhausting season where Fulham defied all the odds by swaggering their way to the Europa League final - only to fall at the final hurdle and allow Atletico Madrid pip them to the line.
That extended campaign saw Duff play 52 club games - a remarkable statistic considering the injury problems the fit-again 31-year-old has battled in recent seasons.
Duff could have taken the easy option this week by withdrawing from Ireland's games against Paraguay tonight and Algeria as his participation in the Europa League final was in doubt until the 11th hour owing to a calf injury. But he pulled through and gave it his all as Fulham fell agonisingly short.
That drive and ambition, not to mention the manner of his performances, also serves notice that tales of the winger's demise are greatly exaggerated. Granted the legs are not quite what they used to be, but Duff could easily have fallen off the radar after leaving Newcastle and Chelsea behind him.
Instead, the Dubliner is reborn under Roy Hodgson - his former Blackburn manager - and Ireland gaffer Trapattoni will be saying plenty of prayers this summer that Duff remains injury-free ahead of the big Euro 2012 kick-off in September.
"I monitored Damien a lot this year and we pray to God that he doesn't get injured because, like Robbie Keane, Kevin Doyle and three or four others, he is very important to us," said the Italian.
Trapattoni knows that Duff, more than most, will appreciate the summer break after such a gruelling season and, for that reason, he won't overwork him against Paraguay tonight or Algeria on Friday.
"I will look out for him tonight and when it is possible I will give him a rest. In the Europa League final he was fantastic, one of the best players on the pitch, and I hope he keeps that mentality.
"Since he arrived for training, he doesn't look like a player finishing up the season. He has been enthusiastic and isn't showing that he's under performing, injured or tired."
Duff starts on the left wing tonight in a strong Irish team. Trapattoni - in typical style - has no intention of throwing caution to the wind by including a host of fringe and emerging players from the very outset.
Rep of Ireland: Westwood (Coventry); Kelly (Fulham), McShane (Hull), St Ledger (Preson), O'Shea (Manchester United); Lawrence (Stoke), Andrews (Blackburn), Whelan (Stoke), Duff (Fulham); Keane (Tottenham), Doyle (Wolves).
