Friends of Fulham

 
Keeper: Millwall's travelling fans will shock Fulham stars

FULHAM'S ex-Premier League stars can expect a "bit of a shock" when over 4,000 Millwall fans turn up at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

That's the view of goalkeeper David Forde, who reckons the Lions' travelling army will drum up a fantastic atmosphere in this weekend's London derby.

"They'll be in for a bit of a shock," Forde said.

"We're taking over 4,000 fans and they'll thoroughly enjoy going there because it's a fantastic football venue.

"It's an old-school ground and there aren't many of those left.

"I played there a couple of months ago for Ireland against Italy in front of a full house and it was fantastic. The stadium has got a bit of character and a history about it.

"The playing surface was top drawer as well so we're all looking forward to it. It's always nice when you get a chance to put yourselves up against an ex-Premier League side."

"When the Millwall fans haven't been somewhere for a few years they like to venture to these places and a bit of excitement builds.

"The Fulham players will know all about the Millwall fans once they get into full voice."


http://www.newsatden.co.uk/38670-keeper-millwalls-travelling-fans-will-shock-fulham-stars.html? (http://www.newsatden.co.uk/38670-keeper-millwalls-travelling-fans-will-shock-fulham-stars.html?)

 
Fulham star wanted by Ajax and Werder Bremen

(http://talksport.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/201408/451759460.jpg?itok=BCAE5L2x)

Ajax and Werder Bremen are competing to sign Fulham forward Bryan Ruiz.

The Costa Rica international, who scored twice at this summer's World Cup, has one year remaining on his current deal at Craven Cottage.

And now, according to Sport Bild, he is drawing interest from Holland and Germany.

Ruiz spent the second half of last season on loan at PSV and it is reported the 28-year-old would be open to a return to the Eredivisie.

However, Ruiz has also attracted the attention of Bundesliga side Werder Bremen and Greek champions Olympiakos


Read more at http://talksport.com/football/fulham-star-wanted-ajax-and-werder-bremen-140815107890#OALAMEY9kHE8I0om.99 (http://talksport.com/football/fulham-star-wanted-ajax-and-werder-bremen-140815107890#OALAMEY9kHE8I0om.99)

 
Brentford boss reacts to Fulham draw and vows no repeat of Derby County woes

Brentford manager Mark Warburton is well aware of the importance of the Bees' Capital One Cup second round derby with Fulham.

The Bees drew their west London rivals at home in the second round and the manager is determined to put on a good display for the supporters.

"It was almost by fate," Warburton said. "The players are well aware of the importance of that game. It's important that we prepare right for that game.

"After Birmingham our focus will be on that Fulham fixture and making sure we prepare and produce a good display as it's very important to the fans.

Brentford played a much-weakened team against Derby County in the second round last season and were beaten by five goals to nil.

And Warburton promised that the mistake Uwe Rosler made will not be made again.

The current Bees boss made nine changes for the 6-6 draw against Dagenham & Redbridge before the Bees triumphed on penalties; giving players like Harlee Dean their first start of the season.

"It's about the winning habit," Warburton said. "The players want to win, the supporters get used to it and for us it was preparing for the game right.

"We have a strong squad. Nico has been pushing Alan Mac really hard. Harlee Dean has been fantastic for us.

"Tony Craig, Kevin O'Connor – you look at Marcos [Tebar] and Toumani [Diagouraga] and we had a decent team out at Dagenham.

"People pay good money to go and watch the game and you can't put out a half assembled side. It's just not the right thing to do.

"Hopefully people get good pitch time. Nico [Yennaris], Harlee, Toumani and Richard Lee got game time."



http://www.london24.com/sport/football/clubs/brentford/brentford_boss_reacts_to_fulham_draw_and_vows_no_repeat_of_derby_county_woes_1_3728134 (http://www.london24.com/sport/football/clubs/brentford/brentford_boss_reacts_to_fulham_draw_and_vows_no_repeat_of_derby_county_woes_1_3728134)

 
Score Predictor

Introducing Score Predictor, Fulham's new match competition where fans can win prizes by correctly guessing the score and scorers in each of the Whites' games.

The match report section will provide facts and stats to assist you in making informed predictions, helping you climb the table on your way to glory. The closer the prediction, the more points you earn.


Enter the global league to see how you fare against fans around the world, and be in with a chance of winning monthly and seasonal prizes. Each month the winner and three runners-up will all receive a selection of Fulham prizes, so check back regularly to find out what is on offer each month.

You can see how you've fared against Whites supporters from across the world by entering the global league and, for a more personal edge, fans will also be able to take part in private leagues among friends, allowing you to compete for those important bragging rights. Set up your own league and go up against friends to determine who comes out top as the prediction champion.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/score-predictor? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/score-predictor?)

 
QPR legend reckons Fulham face 'baptism of fire'

Olly's Lions ready to roar at the Cottage

Ian Holloway insists Fulham youngsters face a 'baptism of fire' in the Championship - and has told his Millwall side to turn up the heat at Craven Cottage tomorrow.

The QPR legend reckons teenager Patrick Roberts is one to watch after his showing in Fulham's 2-1 defeat at Ipswich, but the man who made his name in west London before moving south, reckons Fulham's new slant on youth is going to be sorely tested.

"When you're spending zillions and zillions your owners want you to stay up, and they'll want them to go back," he said.

"All the best of with that sort of transition. I've had it at Blackpool - the best players get stolen. It is a baptism of fire in this division.

"But the young lad that came on at Ipswich, Roberts, he looked fantastic. If that's what's going to happen, and that sort of player comes on, they're going to be a better team."

Olly met Felix Magath recently for a chat, and coveted the background in which Fulham's German was raised.

It's all the more poignant at a club counting the pennies where the Millwall manager has dug into his own pocket to help foot hotel stays on away trips.

"I met Felix a couple of weeks ago and he's a fantastic man," said Olly. "I'm a bit envious of where he comes from.

"Germany think bigger and better than we do: like a £25 million sports complex just to go to the World Cup.

Even so, Fulham were a Premier League side last year, but I don't care. It's a case of welcome to the real world of the Championship."



http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/qpr-legend-reckons-fulham-face-7608555? (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/qpr-legend-reckons-fulham-face-7608555?)

 
Statement Of Intent


Behind the softly spoken demeanor, Ross McCormack has a steely determination to succeed.

Last season's top scorer in the Sky Bet Championship joined the Whites from Leeds United in July for an undisclosed fee. It was certainly a statement of

intent from the Whites in their attempt to return to the top flight at the first time of asking.

Finding the net from in and outside the box, with his feet and his head, the Glasgow-born star was almost unplayable at times. Fingers are firmly crossed in SW6 for that form to continue from a player unsurprisingly named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year last term.

Asked how Fulham can get the best out of him, the Scotland international tells Saturday's official matchday programme: "There are a lot of good players at the Club, so first and foremost they just need to do what they do and I can feed off that.

"We've got a lot of good strikers here who will score goals, not just myself. I've always said that if I play as an out-and-out striker, then I'll score goals. I've always believed that, the whole way through my career and it's certainly no different now.


"The Championship is all about hard work, graft, teamwork and team spirit. The last one takes you far in this league, probably further than ability. If you look at some of the teams that have recently gone up, for example, Leicester City, Burnley and Cardiff City, they were very tight as a group. We need to build this place up like that. Then things will take care of themselves."

To read the full interview with McCormack, get your hands on a copy of the new-look matchday programme against Millwall on Saturday.

Other highlights in the only matchday magazine that matters - which is also available to download digitally from 9am on Saturday - are:

Chairman Shahid Khan on the season ahead and the latest on the long-awaited development of the Riverside Stand
Manager Felix Magath outlines his plans for the campaign in his programme notes
Tim Hoogland answers your questions via our social media channels
We pay tribute to retiring matchday compere David 'Diddy' Hamilton
In a regular feature, key figures take a walk back down memory lane to the 1981/82 promotion-winning season
And Whites legend Les Strong brings you the first of his new programme column


Priced £3.50, the 84-page publication is available from various sellers on Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Fans can also save money by taking out a season subscription. Head here for more details.

The programme is also available as an app with added video content from 9am on Saturday, so whether you're at home or away, you need never be without it on your iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, PC or Mac via Apple's Newsstand. The programme is also available via the Pocketmags app on Kindle Fire and Blackberry Playbook. You can subscribe for the whole season for the digital edition for just £24.99 or buy a single issue for £1.99.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/statement-of-intent? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/statement-of-intent?)

 
A Letter From The Manager

Dear Fans,

It has always been my philosophy to engage with the fans, and I believe it to be an important part of my work as a manager, to keep you better informed into what is happening in the Football Club.

I would like to make one fact very clear, we have made many new signings in the summer months, ten new players have arrived and six players have been promoted from the Academy. These new additions were on the whole free transfers; there was obviously one exception to this rule, the signing of Ross McCormack, but for the Championship's top scorer last season, a high fee was inevitable.  Contrary to popular belief, we have not spent huge amounts, but have invested wisely. The reason for the release of so many players, was that I felt that the squad was an ageing one that urgently needed to be freshened up with younger, hungrier and more ambitious players.

I do feel that we as a Club should not be frightened of change and that we need to look forward with a much younger team. I would like to stress, that our aim is to develop a squad that can not only perform well and achieve our goal in the Championship, but can grow into a strong Premier League team with a promising future.  It is important to me, that you as fans understand what we are trying to accomplish, I strongly believe we are going in the right direction and we will develop into a team playing an exciting brand of football.

I heard constantly last season many complaints regarding the age of the team and the lack of opportunities given to our younger players. Bearing this in mind, my goal is to find a fine blend of youth and experience, with the emphasis on younger players. Last week at Ipswich we had only a temporary setback, but the performance was very encouraging and my players came away from the match with positive spirits.  Ten of our starting 11 were players new to the team and our average starting age was 23, we finished the match with an average age of 21. We are obviously at the start of this new project, but I can honestly say that I was very happy with the team and I am convinced that my players will grow into a very strong unit.

This team requires from you, our supporters, patience, support and an understanding as to what we are trying to build here for the future of the Football Club.  My work here as manager and that of my staff, is to bring to you a team which you can be proud of and get excited about. We are all in this together, please show us that you have trust and faith in us.

All the best!

Felix


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/a-letter-from-the-manager? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/a-letter-from-the-manager?)

 
Match preview: Fulham v Millwall

A comprehensive look ahead to Saturday's London derby
Millwall face Fulham for the first time since April 1999 at Craven Cottage on Saturday (3pm).

Well over 4,000 Lions fans are making the relatively short journey to SW6 hoping that Ian Holloway's men can secure back-to-back Sky Bet Championship victories after last Saturday's 2-0 win over Leeds. Fulham are looking to get off the mark following relegation from the Premier League after they lost their season opener away to Ipswich Town the same day.

What the manager says

Ian Holloway: "They've been there (The Premier League) for 13 years so it's a big drop for them. I've been there myself after only one year and it's a huge difference. It's a tough fixture but a great one for us." Watch more from Ollie on Lions Player

Team news

Nicky Bailey has returned to training this week after injuring himself in Millwall's pre-season friendly win over Real Mallorca and is in the squad.

Stephen Bywater's loan move to Gillingham means there could be a place on the bench for young goalkeeper Denzel Gerrar, a graduate of Millwall's Academy.

Summer signing Matthew Briggs will miss the chance to face his former club as he serves a one-game suspension for his sending off in Tuesday night's Capital One Cup win over Wycombe Wanderers.

Ross McCormack, an £11m summer signing from Leeds United, looks set to make his home debut for Felix Magath's Cottagers.

Head-to-head

Saturday's meeting will be the 41st between Fulham and Millwall and the first since 1999 when The Cottagers ran out 4-1 winners in SW6.

Millwall's last victory over the West London club was a 2-1 win at Craven Cottage in March 1998.

In total, Fulham have won 16 of the previous 40 encounters to Millwall's 13, with the remaining 11 finishing in draws.

Coverage

Unable to make it to Craven Cottage? Tune in to full match commentary on Lions Player from 2.50pm.

We will also cover all the action over on @MillwallFC, the club's official Twitter account. Join the conversation by using #FFCvMFC in your tweets.



Read more at http://www.millwallfc.co.uk/news/article/fulham-match-preview-1830221.aspx#rYiXAYHR4sKyhyab.99 (http://www.millwallfc.co.uk/news/article/fulham-match-preview-1830221.aspx#rYiXAYHR4sKyhyab.99)

 
Dino Fazlic: Fulham boss Magath signs former Bolton man

Fulham boss Felix Magath has signed Dino Fazlic on a one-year contract after the former Bolton midfielder impressed during a trial.

The 22-year-old free agent featured for Magath's side in pre-season friendlies against East Fife and Caykur Rizespor.

Fazlic previously played for Swiss side Grasshoppers, having started his career in Germany with Werder Bremen.

Bolton signed him in 2012, but he was released by them later that year without making a first-team appearance.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28812097 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28812097)

 
Delaware North scores Fulham FC catering deal

Delaware North Companies (UK) has been contracted to manage the catering operation at Fulham FC.

The contract, which will see the company take over all catering at the club's Craven Cottage stadium including the general admission concourses, hospitality boxes and lounges, and non-match day conferences and events.

From year three of the deal, which has the potential to run for 10, Delaware North will also be responsible for the catering and hospitality at the club's new Riverside Stand, which is now at the planning stage. This major investment will provide some of the region's most iconic meeting and events space overlooking the Thames. A new riverside café, open to the public, will also form part of this development and will be included under Delaware North's remit.

Doug Tetley, managing director at Delaware North Companies (UK), said: "We're delighted to have been awarded the contract at Fulham FC, especially during such a significant period of investment for the club. Craven Cottage has been the home of Fulham FC for the past 115 years, and we're proud to add such a historic venue to our select portfolio of UK stadiums."

Sean O'Loughlin, finance director at Fulham FC, added: "The choice of partner was extremely important to us, to ensure that the level of quality and service that Fulham is known for was enhanced, as we welcome fans to the Cottage again this season. We know that DNC is committed to delivering an exceptional service for all visitors to Craven Cottage, and we are excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring."

Delaware North Companies (UK) also announced another award – a three-year partnership with caterer Blink at Wembley Stadium. Blink has been appointed to provide additional specialist food partners to complement the core offer within the stadium.

Blink is a group of specialist food and beverage brands partnered together by Simon Carey in 2012. The partners are made up of different specialist high street brands, street food operators and producers.

Events and audiences at Wembley range widely from England football games to NFL matches, concerts and boxing. Using Blink's portfolio of partners, it is possible to offer a flexible approach to catering that can be tailored to each audience to bring an element of theatre to the event.



- See more at: http://www.fm-world.co.uk/news/business-news/delaware-north-scores-fulham-fc-catering-contract/?#sthash.xdpLZFQ0.dpuf (http://www.fm-world.co.uk/news/business-news/delaware-north-scores-fulham-fc-catering-contract/?#sthash.xdpLZFQ0.dpuf)

 
Fulham v Millwall preview

Fulham boss Felix Magath must decide whether to persevere with Ross McCormack ahead of the visit of Millwall.

The £11million striker was substituted before the hour mark after a disappointing debut in the 2-1 defeat at Ipswich last weekend, after which Magath claimed he was not yet fully fit.

Midfielder Mark Fotheringham could be handed his debut after signing a one-year deal with the Cottagers last Friday.

Goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg this week joined Monaco while forwards Kostas Mitroglou and Bryan Ruiz, who also want to leave the club, are not expected to figure.

Millwall's Matthew Briggs misses out on a meeting with his former side.

Full-back Briggs, who left Craven Cottage to join the Lions this summer, was sent off for two bookings - the first for taking his shirt off after scoring the winner - against Wycombe on Tuesday and serves a one-match ban.

Forward Magaye Gueye is a doubt after suffering a rib injury on his debut in midweek while midfielder Nicky Bailey is still out with a calf problem.

But Justin Hoyte, Ed Upson and Richard Chaplow are close to returning after hamstring injuries.


http://www.teamtalk.com/match/preview/978/9423225/-? (http://www.teamtalk.com/match/preview/978/9423225/-?)

 
Team News

Adam Taggart will have to wait for his Fulham debut as he continues to nurse an injury he picked up in pre-season.

The Australian striker is the Whites' only confirmed injury absentee for the weekend's clash with Millwall, although Felix Magath stated that fellow frontman Ross McCormack may not be involved.

The Manager told the press on Friday: "He was not as fit as the other players so it is improving now but for Saturday I think he is not ready."

Ryan Williams will also miss the London derby as he serves a suspension picked up whilst on loan at Oxford United last season.

For our visitors, there will be no homecoming for Matthew Briggs after the former Whites left-back was sent off on his debut in the Capital One Cup earlier in the week.

Ed Upson and Richard Chaplow also look set to miss out through injury, although midfielder Nicky Bailey is in the squad for the first time this season after returning to training.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/team-news? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/team-news?)

 
Fulham set to sign Boca and Argentina under-20 defender

(https://golazoargentino.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/casas.jpg?w=640)

Championship side, Fulham are close to completing a deal for Boca Juniors' 19-year-old centre back, Tiago Casasola according to reports. The Argentina under-20 international will cost the London club in the region of £800,000 which seems curiously cheap give Boca paid $700,000 to Huracán in 2012 for 60% of the rights.


The deal doesn't appear to make much sense for Boca, certainly in the long term, as Huracán will be owed money from any deal and as a under-20 international who is yet to make his full debut for the club it is unlikely that his valuation would decrease over the next couple of years.

Standing 6 foot 3 inches, Casasola is strong aerially but is decent playing the ball out and Barcelona were reportedly scouting him in the past year viewing him as a defender with similarities to Gerard Piqué.

Several other European clubs have been registered with an interest so Fulham may be close to securing a coup. Casasola was one of the young players who Alejandro Sabella used in Brazil as the sparring group so he is certainly viewed as a potential international defender.

Considering in some reports at the time of Barcelona's reported interest it was claimed that Casasola has a $5 million buyout clause the deal appears even stranger for Boca and after the issue with Riquelme is another damaging story for Daniel Angelici and the Boca board.


http://golazoargentino.wordpress.com/2014/08/15/fulham-set-to-sign-boca-and-argentina-under-20-defender/? (http://golazoargentino.wordpress.com/2014/08/15/fulham-set-to-sign-boca-and-argentina-under-20-defender/?)

 
Ross McCormack axed from Fulham's starting XI for Millwall clash

Summer signing has been relegated to the bench due to poor fitness levels

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Bench duty: Fulham striker Ross McCormack is not up to speed

Ross McCormack has been dropped from Fulham's starting XI for tomorrow's clash with Millwall due to his poor fitness levels.

Boss Felix Magath substituted the £11million summer signing in the second half of last weekend's 2-1 defeat at Ipswich Town.

And the German chief has decided to relegate the Scotland star to the bench for the London derby against the Lions.

He said: "Unfortunately he wasn't with us in pre-season and is not in the same condition as the others. Ross has improved but it's not enough to start."

Australian striker Adam Taggart misses out again as he battles to overcome an abdominal problem, while Ryan Williams is suspended.

Magath is set to make a couple of changes from the side from the one that lost at Portman Road last time out.

But youngster Patrick Roberts may have to settle for a place on the bench again, despite his impressive cameo.   


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ross-mccormack-axed-fulhams-starting-7622277? (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ross-mccormack-axed-fulhams-starting-7622277?)

 
Bees Date Confirmed

Fulham's Capital One Cup Second Round derby at Brentford's Griffin Park will take place on Tuesday 26th August (7.45pm).

Seating tickets for the game are priced £20 adults, £15 concessions and £5 for Under-18s. Terrace tickets are £15 adults, £10 concessions and £5 Under-18s.

Tickets go on sale to Season Ticket Holders with 350 points or more on Monday 18th August (one per person). All Season Ticket Holders can purchase a place on Tuesday 19th August (one per person). Members can buy tickets from Wednesday 20th August (one per person).

There are six pairs of Wheelchair Disabled tickets, priced as above, with personal assistants free.

Ambulant Disabled tickets are taken out of the seating allocation, priced as above, with personal assistants free. Please be aware the away seating is located upstairs so may not be suitable for supporters with mobility issues.

Due to the close proximity of Brentford's ground, the Club will not be offering coaches for this fixture.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/bees-date-confirmed? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/bees-date-confirmed?)

 
Felix Magath has inflicted a problem onto himself by leaving Fulham lacking in goal

With the new season now upon us it is vital that we as fans have before us a coherent team that we are confident can be, at the very least, competitive.

For the most part we do have that. Yes there are positions that, in an ideal world, could be a bit stronger, but we're a Championship side now and as such required to make do with what we have at our disposal.

One position however – one very important position I might add – has, so far, not been properly addressed, and that is who will stand in between the sticks for us this year.

What makes the whole situation more frustrating is the fact that just a few weeks ago there was no problem at all (well at least not at this side of the closed door).

At the club we had Maarten Stekelenburg, a great keeper who has never really had a chance to shine for us, and David Stockdale, a keeper who has grown substantially during his time in Fulham.

Now we have neither, except two young keepers in Jesse Joronen and Marcus Bettinelli – prospects perhaps, but by no means players who yet possess the ability to see us progress.

The self-inflicted nature of this problem, for me, throws Magath's worth into regard as selling David Stockdale without an adequate replacement was a bold and, so far, self-impeding move.

Yes Maarten Stekelenburg's forced exit to Monaco was admittedly a rather different situation, but it occurred both after Stockdale's release and after he was given the number 1 jersey, which begs the question as to how much backroom communication was being had prior to Stockdale's dismissal.

For me there is no logic to any of it, unless of course Magath considers Joronen – the keeper he started against Ipswich last weekend – to be the right man to take the club forward.

But he doesn't, necessarily. As reported by Get West London, Fulham's young keeper has three weeks to further add to the nerves he showed at Portman Road by battling it out with the equally inexperienced Bettinelli, before the inevitable happens and we sign ourselves an experienced keeper.

Surely these issues could have been addressed and ironed out during the summer, so that come last week we would have had a stable and consistent core to our team?

It seems that Magath, so stuck on doing things his way, is making his life harder than it needs to be, and I hope for both our clubs' sake and the sake of his job that he sorts the seemingly avoidable, self-inflicted situation soon.


http://metro.co.uk/2014/08/15/felix-magath-has-inflicted-a-problem-onto-himself-by-leaving-fulham-lacking-in-goal-4829208/? (http://metro.co.uk/2014/08/15/felix-magath-has-inflicted-a-problem-onto-himself-by-leaving-fulham-lacking-in-goal-4829208/?)

 
Magath's Millwall Preview

Felix Magath has no regrets about placing his faith in Fulham's youngsters, and insists it's all part of a long-term project.

The Whites had one of the oldest squads in the Premier League last season, but this summer saw the Manager undertake a significant overhaul of the side.

"I came here to build up a new team," he said in Friday's press conference. "As I stepped in in February, the situation was clear; the squad was too old.

"You have to build up a new team and that is what I was looking for, that is what I like to do. I like to work with young players so I took six players from our Academy.

"I've never heard that before when a manager took six players from the youth team into the professional squad but I'm convinced the players will develop into a level where we like to play – the Premier League."

He continued: "I think it's the right way to work with the younger players to give them the responsibility in the squad and give them the chance to play. So I will do it with this Club and these players and I'm convinced we will develop a young and ambitious team that is able to get promoted into the Premier League. That is our aim.

"In my opinion, at Ipswich Town, Emerson Hyndman made a very good game and I was surprised because he is one of the smallest in the squad. We have George Williams, he is more strong, Moussa Dembélé also, and Cameron Burgess.

"He plays also very well, he has a body like a man, so it depends but they are all in a good way and in the next weeks or months I think they will develop into real Championship players."

Fulham kicked off the 2014/15 campaign with a 2-1 defeat at Portman Road last week despite some promising passages of play, but Magath is confident his team can achieve the result they desire when London rivals Millwall visit SW6 on Saturday.

"We were disappointed after the game, the players also," he stated. "But we talked about the game and we had a look at a few situations and we know what we can make better and so we worked on this.

"I am glad with the performance this week on the training field so I am confident and convinced that we are able to make a very good game on Saturday. The players also know that unfortunately we lost the first game so we have to win the home game – that is very important. We look forward to the game and we want to make our first three points.

"I was satisfied with our performance last week but Saturday there is a different game because we are at home and our opponents will not play the same style as Ipswich so we might have one or two changes in the team."

The Lions are now managed by former Blackpool and Crystal Palace boss Ian Holloway – someone our own Manager has a lot of respect for.

"I love him," Magath said of his Millwall counterpart. "I met him for a few days and he was very ambitious, fighting for football. He loves football, he lives football and so I like him very much and I wish him great success, just not on Saturday.

"I think it will be interesting fighting against each other but for the future I think he will do a great job."

In the press conference Magath was quizzed as to the futures of both Kostas Mitroglou and Bryan Ruiz, and he admitted the pair may not be Fulham players for much longer.

He explained: "They are both players who have shown us that they can play at the highest level: Bryan Ruiz in the World Cup and Mitroglou in the Champions League. And so it might be that they will leave the Club in the next days.

"I think it's better for everyone when we pick a team where we can be sure that they will play for us the whole season."

While there's the possibility of some departures from the Club, Magath confirmed he hopes to get another body through the door in the form of 19-year-old Argentinean defender Tiago Casasola.

"He is young player, a great talent, and we are interested in him," he stated. "I think he will join us in the next days.

"He's a central defender and he is, in my opinion, a player who can develop to play in the Premier League and Champions League."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/magaths-millwall-preview? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/magaths-millwall-preview?)

 
Fazlic Signs

Fulham Football Club is delighted to confirm the signing of Dino Fazlic on a one-year deal following a successful trial with the Club during pre-season.

Fazlic featured in two preparation matches against East Fife and Caykur Rizespor.

The 22-year-old midfielder previously played for Swiss side Grasshopper Club Zurich.

He started at Werder Bremen's youth team before moving to England in 2012 where he made several appearances for Bolton Wanderers' Under-21 side.

Fazlic will wear the number 22 shirt this season.


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/fazlic-signs? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/fazlic-signs?)

 
Fulham sign Bosnian midfielder

Fazlic becomes latest arrival at Craven Cottage as squad overhaul continues

(http://i4.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article7069359.ece/alternates/s615/4387056.jpg)
Starting from scratch: Felix Magath has overhauled Fulham's squad following relegation

Fulham have handed a one-year deal to Bosnian midfielder Dino Fazlic following a successful trial.

Fazlic featured in the pre-season games against East Fife and Caykur Rizespor and did enough to convince Felix Magath to add him to the Craven Cottage ranks.

The 22-year-old was previously with Grasshopper Club Zurich in Switzerland before leaving in the summer.

Fazlic came through the ranks at Werder Bremen before moving to England in 2012 to join Bolton Wanderers.

However, he failed to make a first-team appearance for the Trotters and headed to Switzerland a year later.


http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-sign-bosnian-midfielder-7623809? (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-sign-bosnian-midfielder-7623809?)

 
Lays of the Weekend: Fulham won't win home opener

It's lay time again and Michael Lintorn's first trio of teams to tackle are Fulham, Walsall and Woking...

Lay Fulham to beat Millwall (draw no bet) @ 1.52

With this fixture pitting a recently-relegated promotion favourite against a side who almost slipped into League One, you would expect to find Fulham odds-on, but they are actually a shade above evens at 2.06. Therefore, the preferred laying option is to oppose Felix Magath's men in the draw no bet market. If Millwall win, you'll near enough double their stake; if they draw, you break even.

Fulham didn't impress in their Championship opener at Ipswich, a 1-2 defeat, and unlike everyone else in the division bar Norwich, didn't get a midweek chance to make amends and start building momentum in the Capital One Cup, due to receiving a bye. Millwall by contrast have continued the seven-match unbeaten run that they ended 2013/14 with by winning successive games to nil; only Leicester and Wigan won more trips to top-half teams last term than the Lions.



https://betting.betfair.com/football/championship/lays-of-the-weekend-fulham-wont-win-home-opener-150814-39.html?

 
McCormack Update

Felix Magath explained that he has sympathy for Ross McCormack, but does not think the striker will start against Millwall on Saturday.

The Scotland international arrived at the Club midway through pre-season preparations, and although his application in training has been good, according to Magath, the Fulham boss doesn't think he's quite there in terms of fitness.

"Unfortunately he was not in as we started the pre-season," he explained. "So he is not in the same condition as the other players.

"It is always hard when a player who is working hard over the week and is very ambitious, has to step back. We have competition in our Club and everybody has to show that he is more important for the squad, so everybody gets his chance and Ross has improved but I think it's not so good that he can start on Saturday."

Another individual who may not be involved from the off against the Lions is Patrick Roberts. The teenager was in dazzling form when he came on as a late substitute at Portman Road last week, but Magath is cautious when it comes to letting him loose.


"We all knew that he is a very great talent," he said. "He will be make his way into the Premier League, probably into the English national squad, but it takes a little time because he is very young.

"Pat is a little bit small at the moment and so I think about putting him in the starting formation but I think to protect him maybe it's better if he came in during the second half.

"His abilities are great and we saw in the last 15 minutes at Ipswich that if he is a little bit lucky he will change the game and we could have had a draw after 90 minutes.

"It was his impact in the game and his abilities will grow. He has to get a little bit stronger- he is one who needs a little bit more power.

"The young players have to get used to [the Championship] and that is one thing they can develop. If they get used to this style of playing they will be better, they will develop as players, and so they will be well prepared for the next season."


http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/mccormack-update? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/august/15/mccormack-update?)

 
AUSTRALIAN TEEN BURGESS GRABS FULHAM CHANCE


Australian teenager Cameron Burgess has emerged as a bolter in Fulham's bid to jump straight back to the Premier League after making his league debut for Felix Magath's men at just 18.

The rapidly rising product of Perth's renowned ECU Joondalup Academy played a full 90 minutes as the Cottagers began life in the Championship with a 2-1 loss at Ipswich last weekend.

And a performance of maturity and boundless commitment did nothing to harm the rookie's chances of landing more game time when Fulham entertains fellow Aussie Scott McDonald's Millwall on Sunday (AEST).


One of four Joondalup alumni at Craven Cottage - striker Adam Taggart, winger Ryan Williams and goalkeeper Jake Soutter are the others - centre-back Burgess showed his versatility by playing out of positon in midfield.
Born in Scotland but transplanted to Perth aged 11, Burgess was just happy to be involved, explaining: "It was a bit of surprise to get a start against Ipswich but a nice one.

"I'd been involved in the pre-season games and while I am a centre-half really, I was more than happy to play wherever the boss wanted me to.

"This is a club determined to return to the Premier League this year and there's quality all over the pitch in every position.

"To be involved with the first team, especially at my age, is pretty special and hopefully I can play some part in us pushing on for promotion.

"This is such a tough league and the games come thick and fast."

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BuRhHYcCAAAyLL5.jpg:large)


Neither Williams (suspended) nor Australia striker Taggart (injured) are available for the mach against Millwall as Burgess bids to cement his place in Magath's senior set-up.
With both British and Australian passports, he has the option to represent his homeland of Scotland and also the green and gold without being bound to either until he makes a full international appearance at senior level in a FIFA-sanctioned tournament.

Burgess already has three caps for Scotland's U-19s and one for its U-20s but was also part of an Australia U-20s camp in Dubai earlier this year along with fellow West Australians Peter Skapetis (Stoke City) and Scott Galloway (Melbourne Victory).

There have been ongoing discussions on being a part of Paul Okon's Young Socceroos squad for October's AFC Under-19 Championships in October in Myanmar, with Australia needing to make the semi-finals to qualify for next year's FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand.

"There have been a few talks and we will see what happens," said Burgess who joined Fulham in a scholarship two years ago.

"Obviously I have a strong connection with Australia. It's where I started to really develop my game and I made so many friends there inside football and elsewhere. There's a great sporting culture there."

With Australia to play Belgium and Saudi Arabia in Liege and London early next month, Burgess could conceivably even jump into contention should he continue to flourish at Fulham.

His roots, though, are steeped in Scottish football folklore with grandfather Campbell Forsyth winning four Scottish caps as a goalkeeper in the 1960s during a career which saw him play for St Mirren, Kilmarnock and Southampton while father Stuart played for Albion Rovers, East Fife, Falkirk and Kilmarnock.

"With my background they were proud that I was capped for Scotland and it was a big moment for me," said Burgess who speaks with a distinct Scottish twang.

"But their main concern is more about me cementing a career in club football than anything else because if you don't do that then there is no chance of playing international football anyway."

Burgess, who trained with Aberdeen and Celtic as a kid and was also on Perth Glory's books at as junior, added: "I was coming up to 11 when we moved as a family to Australia.

"My parents are still there and I talk almost every day to dad about football and general stuff and really value his advice.

"I couldn't be happier with how things are going but there's an awful lot still to do and so much to learn."

Burgess is part of a wave of talent to emerge from WA in recent years through ECU Joondalup which, in addition to the Fulham four, has has spawned the likes of Brad Jones (Liverpool), Chris Herd (Aston Villa), Rhys Williams Middlesbrough, Shane Lowry (Leyton Orient), Jordan Lyden (Aston Villa), Alex Grant (Stoke City) and Peter Skapetis (Stoke City).

Its founder Gary Williams - now an agent based in the UK - said: "I am not sure if there's something in the Joondalup water but it's been a breeding ground for some excellent players over the years and it's a work in progress still.

"A lot of it is down to the good coaching of (Scotsman) John Brown and I am proud to have been involved in some part.

"The likes of Cameron are good examples of where this talent can be channelled if you find the right club and environment to take these players to the next level."


http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/article/2014/08/15/bolter-burgess-grabs-fulham-chance? (http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/article/2014/08/15/bolter-burgess-grabs-fulham-chance?)