Transfer Round Up
Monday 1st February 2010
Fulham FC News
Business Report:
Fulham wrapped up their January transfer business on Monday afternoon with the news that highly rated German youngster Christopher Butchmann had signed from Liverpool on an 18 month deal with the Club.
The 17-year-old from Minden was named amongst UEFA's 'Top 10 Stars of the Future' in May 2009 after playing an integral role in Germany's European U17 Championship triumph.
Before revealing the Butchmann coup, Fulham announced two loan signings on Monday morning. Firstly it was announced that AS Roma striker and Italy U21 striker Stefano Okaka had signed on loan until the end of the season before the arrival former England international defender Nicky Shorey was confirmed by the Club.
Shorey has also signed a loan deal that will keep him at the Cottage for the remainder of the 2009/10 with Roy Hodgson having the option of making the left-back's move permanent at the end of the current campaign.
Several players departed SW6 on short and mid-term loans on Monday following Chris Smalling's permanent switch to Old Trafford last week. Smalling will remain at Fulham until the end of the 2009/10 season as part of the agreement between Fulham and Manchester United.
Diomansy Kamara (Celtic), Toni Kallio (Sheffield United) and Eddie Johnson (Aris FC) will remain out on loan until the end of the current season whilst a number of Academy Graduates and promising youngsters were loaned out during the January transfer window for a period of one month.
David Stockdale (Plymouth Argyle), Matthew Briggs (Leyton Orient), Wayne Brown (Bristol Rovers), Matthew Saunders (Lincoln City) and Michael Uwezu (Lincoln City) will all gain valuable experience over the next few weeks.
Incoming Players
Player Deal From
Christopher Buchtmann 18 month contract Liverpool FC
Nicky Shorey End of season / Purchase option Aston Villa
Stefano Okaka Loan Deal (5 months) AS Roma
Player Sold & Loan Deals
Player Deal To
Chris Smalling Sold Manchester United
Diomansy Kamara Loan Deal (5 months) Celtic Football Club
Toni Kallio Loan Deal (5 months) Sheffield United
Eddie Johnson Loan Deal (5 months) Aris FC
David Stockdale Loan Deal (1 month) Plymough Argyle
Matthew Briggs Loan Deal (1 month) Leyton Orient
Wayne Brown Loan Deal (1 month) Bristol Rovers
Matthew Saunders Loan Deal (1 month) Lincoln City
Michael Uwezu Loan Deal (1 month) Lincoln City
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/TransferRoundUp.aspx?#ixzz0eKFfXtK9 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/TransferRoundUp.aspx?#ixzz0eKFfXtK9)
Ticketing Update
Monday 1st February 2010
Fulham FC News
Be amongst the first to see Fulham's new additions when Roy Hodgson's side take on Portsmouth at Craven Cottage this Wednesday evening!
With The Whites still searching for their first win since that memorable 3-0 defeat of Manchester United in mid-December, Wednesday's game is absolutely vital and your support could make all the difference!
Get behind the team by purchasing your tickets now!
Fulham v Portsmouth ticket info and prices |.
Burnley - Tuesday 9th February (Kick-Off 8pm)
In our second home game in six days, Burnley visit Craven Cottage on Tuesday 9th February (Kick-Off 8pm) in another crucial evening of Barclays Premier League football.
Fulham v Burnley ticket info & prices |.
FA Cup 5th Round - Sunday 14th February (Kick-Off 3pm)
Tickets for The Whites FA Cup 5th Round tie against either Wigan Athletic or Notts County on Sunday 14th February (Kick-Off 3pm) are available now. Season Ticket Holders seats will only be held until 5pm today before being released for General Sale.
Fulham v Notts County or Wigan ticket info & prices |.
FC Shakhtar Donetsk - Thursday 18th February (Kick-Off 8:05pm)
The Whites are back in European action on Thursday 18th February (Kick-Off 8:05pm) when FC Shakhtar Donetsk visit Craven Cottage in the last 32 of the Europa League.
Fulham v Shakhtar Donestsk ticket info & prices |.
Manchester City – On sale from Tuesday 2nd February!
Tickets for the visit of Roberto Mancini's Manchester City side to Craven Cottage on Saturday 20th March (Kick-Off 3pm) will be available to Season Ticket Holders from 9am on Tuesday 2nd February. Members will be able to purchase their tickets from Thursday 4th February, with any remaining tickets going on General Sale from Tuesday 9th February.
Fulham v Manchester City ticket info & prices |.
Tickets can be purchased online |, in person from the Ticket Office or by calling 0870 442 1234 (option 1).
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/Ticketingupdate.aspx#ixzz0eKGIjpE8
Fulham v Portsmouth
Barclays Premier League
Wednesday 3rd February
Kick-Off 20:00
Tickets are now on General Sale (max 6 tickets)
Family Pack Offer
Family Packs are available for this game offering fantastic value for money! Buy two adult tickets for the match and receive two Junior tickets absolutely FREE! These tickets can be bought over the phone. Call 0870 442 1234 (select option 3) to book your Family Pack now quoting 'Family Pack'. This offer is only available to advance purchasers and not on the day of the game. All tickets are subject to availability in the Putney End Block P1 only.
My First Matchday Package
My First Matchday offers Junior supporters and an accompanying adult the opportunity to see what really goes on behind the scenes at Craven Cottage in the build-up to matchday. Pretend you're a radio commentator in the press box, run down the tunnel, pretend you're directing the players from the Manager's seat in the dugout, interview a guardian in front of the TV interview boards, see our trophy cabinet and even meet a Fulham FC legend! More info and prices|
Group Discounts
Receive two free tickets when you purchase six or more match tickets. These tickets can be bought over the phone. Call 0870 442 1234 (select option 3) to book your Group tickets now. Group Discounts can also be booked online using the group booking form. This offer is only available to advance purchasers and not on the day of the game. All tickets are subject to availability in the Putney End Block P1 only.
How to Buy Tickets
buy tickets online - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day. Save on booking fees by booking online*
by phone on 0870 442 1234 (option 1) - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day
in person from the Ticket Office: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm
by fax 0207 384 4810 (download printable form )
by postal application to FFC Ticket Office, Stevenage Road, Fulham, SW6 6HH enclosing a stamped addressed envelope (download printable form )
Seatwave - the official fan-to-fan ticket exchange
Thomas Cook - match breaks for all Fulham FC home games
* Lower booking fees compared to telephone booking
Prices
Category B prices apply to this match.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FulhamvPortsmouth.aspx#ixzz0eKGslRrl
Looking Ahead
Monday 1st February 2010
Fulham FC News
Fulham defender Stephen Kelly insists the Whites can overcome their recent run of results following Saturday afternoon's 2-0 defeat against Aston Villa.
In-form Villa travelled to the Cottage and reignited their push for a UEFA Champions League place with Gabriel Agbonlahor on target twice in what was an impressive win for Martin O'Neill's side.
Despite a bright start, Fulham were undone and saw an 11-game unbeaten home run come to an end.
The 26-year-old told Fulhamfc.com: "I think everyone would agree that we started well and came out and had a real go at them. There were certainly moments in the game where we were on top, but we just didn't have the luck in the final third.
"Villa's defence was solid throughout and there were times where they were just throwing bodies in the way of the ball. There were quite a few instances where that was the case and had we managed to steer the ball home from one of those then things may have been different.
"At the other end, we conceded two soft goals and of course, we can't be happy with that. Agbonlahor got across his man and headed in quite freely which isn't really like us and the second, okay it was a great turn and a great finish, but I think we could have done better also.
"We've been punished again for giving teams chances. That's what happens at this level and you just can't afford to do that. It's hard to come back from two goals down, especially against a team like Aston Villa, and left ourselves with a lot to do."
Villa moved to sixth in the Barclays Premier League table with their first win in five league outings and showed the kind of energy and endeavour that have won them a number of admirers this term.
"They are a very good side; they pass the ball well, use the flanks and have a lot of pace," says Kelly. "They have a good squad of players and Agbonlahor showed his quality with his two finishes. So credit to Villa, because they did play well.
"But we can still feel disappointed that we didn't offer more and the fact we switched off when it mattered. We're capable of beating teams like Villa though, and we were certainly looking to come away with something."
This defeat left the Whites seeking a first league win since that memorable 3-0 defeat of Manchester United in mid-December. Roy Hodgson's side now have three games in seven days, with Kelly confident they can bounce back.
He said: "Five straight defeats in the league is obviously massively disappointing and we have to drag ourselves back – starting with the game against Portsmouth on Wednesday evening.
"That's a game that we have to make sure we get three points from because we need it. It's been a while since we took any points and of course, we are aware of that. It's difficult to take.
"To be honest I don't think we've been playing badly, but it does reach a stage where we have to stop saying 'well at least we've been playing well'. I think we'd all agree that it's the points that are important.
"We need to start putting some points on the board now and make sure that we're a bit more resilient. Following the Portsmouth match we have Bolton and then Burnley and we're confident that we can turn things around with three games coming in quick succession. Those points would certainly push us back up the table."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/KellyVillaReaction.aspx#ixzz0eKHI3Emj
http://timetosoundoff.wordpress.com/2010/02/01/january-transfer-roundup-pt-ii-goodbyes/?
January Transfer Roundup Pt. II: Goodbyes
February 1, 2010
Chris Smalling, well what can we say about that? Comes from Maidstone Utd as a promising youngster 18 months ago, makes a few appearances both in the Prem and Europe and then signs for Man Utd for somewhere between £7m and £12m incl. add ons. To describe this as a meteoric rise would be an understatement. For Fulham this represents fantastic business. Will he be worth it? For me, I think he will. He will be at Fulham for the rest of the season before joining Utd in the summer. When he does go, good luck to him. For now, it is good to have solid backup for Hangeland.
I have dealt with Dio already below, good luck to him.
Kallio, had fallen out of favour and could not even make it on the pitch despite Fulham's problems at left back. I think this may be the last we see of him in a Fulham shirt.
Eddie Johnson, off to Greek team Aris FC. As above, I would be very surprised to see him in a Fulham shirt again. He came and did little for Fulham, but good luck to him. Maybe he will refind form alongside fellow compatriot and former FM wonderkid Freddy Adu.
And the rest (on short term loans): Stockdale (Plymouth), Matthew Briggs (Leyton Orient), Wayne Brown (Bristol Rovers), Matt Saunders and Uwezu (Lincoln). Of those it is only sad to see Wayne Brown go, I was hoping he might start to play a part in the first team. For the rest, it will surely be good experience.
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/02/01/fenestrative-fun/?
Fenestrative fun
Filed under: General — weltmeisterclaude @ 7:13 pm
Well there we go.
The club neatly summarises ins and outs, but the major business equates to:
Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka in; Chris Smalling and Joe Kamara out.
We also welcome Germany youngster Christopher Buchtmann from Liverpool, and have sent Tony Kallio off on loan again. James Beattie was nearly signed but we couldn't agree personal terms.
What does it all mean?
First, Kamara. Which is your favourite Dio moment?
The bicycle kick against Spurs? Why was he even trying that? In the last minute! When we were behind!
The twist and turn and squirm shot that got us going against City?
The burst and bury finish to win the game against City?
And let's not forget that he also won the free-kick from which we scored at Portsmouth, scored in Rome, Sofia, and St James's Park at cheapsportsequipment.com or whatever it's now called.
Quite a CV for a player who never really got going at Fulham, no?
Put another way, we got way more than £6,000,000 of value out of him, financially, emotionally, irrationally. Goodbye, Diomansy, we will miss you and your unfathomable ways.
Chris Smalling we've talked about.
Tony Kallio seems to have lost Roy's trust, and is no longer seen as a 'safe pair of hands' as a reserve full-back. Shame, he seemed to have something about him at one point, but in the cold light of day, the Championship does seem about right for him.
With all the injuries we badly needed a fullback too, the question was where we might find one. January signings tend to be spare parts and misfits, and generally speaking, players who are doing a good job are not available unless their team is skint or something unseemly has happened. Shorey was plucked from the Duff and Murphy bin. He's not as good as them, but it's the same sort of signing, a good player down on his luck who might well thrive in the right environment. He may well not thrive, but at least he's a proper left-back who once got himself picked for England, so I don't suppose we could have hoped for much more.
Okaka is a mystery. People talk about their evaluation of him from our Europa games, but I don't know that you can read too much into those glimpses. Roy's watched him and seen something, but it'll take a special player to make a tangible difference to the side's goalscoring prowess at this point in the season, and he's more likely a calculated risk with what the 'mericans call 'upside'. If he doesn't adapt we've really lost nothing; if he does we've a nice player on our hands. Who knows? Time will tell.
The lad from Liverpool is, according to the messageboards, rather highly regarded. But anything can happen with youngsters, and unless a player is clearly 'ready' I think speculating about their future is best left to whenever they pop up in the first team. Until then they're merely one of several hopefuls whom we may never see playing for Fulham.
Speaking of which, master of Finland, Wayne Brown, is on loan at Bristol Rovers. I feel rather deflated by this. I know the Finnish league is a notch or two off our own, quality-wise, but he was so well regarded that I had hoped he might get a few games on the bench, a few starts in cups, and then more first team fun over the next season or two. Might still happen, of course, but it does feel like something of a let-down. Ho hum.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5082
Where are they now: Andrejs Stolcers?
by Dan on February 1, 2010
Andrejs Stolcers has moved from Bath City to Hayes and Yeading on a free transfer.
I remember the optimism about our new Latvian arrival when he sealed a fine win at the Hawthorns with Fulham's third goal against West Brom having come on as a second half substitute. A decade later and he's earning a living in non-league football.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5064
Volzy training at QPR
by Dan on February 1, 2010
Update from the former Fulham full back's blog. No suggestion that he'll be there permanently, but it seems like the Schalke move fell through:
Over the past few days I've been training with QPR. I'm very grateful they're giving me the opportunity to build up my match fitness after such a long time out. I played 80 minutes in a reserve game for them in midweek which went well and helped give me a good indication of where I'm at and what I've still got to do to get back to where I was. You can train all you like but it's matches you need to really get back to your best and games like this really help to indicate where you stand physically, technically and tactically. So I'm going to carry on training with QPR for the time being and we'll see what happens from here. But all in all it's been a good week. I'm off to do a few quiches now ..
http://hammyend.com/?p=5072
Fulham make Beattie bid
by Dan on February 1, 2010
According to Sky Sports News, Fulham have made an offer to bring in James Beattie from Stoke. Not sure what to make of this one.
Also, Nicky Shorey's been and gone from the squad player profiles page on the offal. Perhaps we're waiting for the FA to confirm whether he can move, having been on loan at Nottingham Forest earlier this season.
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/33418/De_Rossi_Fulham_new_boy_destined_for_big_things.aspx
De Rossi: Fulham new boy destined for big things
Author: Nigel Brown
Posted on:01 February 2010 - 09:05
New Fulham signing Stefano Okaka has been hailed by former team mate and Italy international Daniel De Rossi to make a big impact in the Premier League with Fulham and revealed he believes the 20-year-old is destined for great things.
Okaka joined the Roman youth system in 2004 but has fialed to break into the first team plans following loan spells at Modena and Brescia. Despite this Okaka has scored 2 goals in 29 appearances for the club as well as plating for the Italian Under-20 side.
However Italian international Daniel De Rossi has hailed the prospect of Okaka, and also revealed that he has tried to block the player's departure from Rome. Fulham boss Roy Hodgson has tracked the player since the summer and was able to lure the forward on loan until the end of the season.
De Rossi told LaRoma24.it. :
"I have a penchant for Okaka. I already opposed his transfer a few years ago, but I'm happy for him.
??"I think it's good for Stefano to go and play there, but he could also do well here. He is destined for big things."
The 20-year-old impressed against the Cottagers in the Europa League earlier this season and boss Roy Hodgson has been keeping tabs on the talented forward.
Okaka is yet to finalise terms with the Cottagers but agent Domenico Scopelliti is expecting the deal to be rubber-stamped without a hitch today.
"The two clubs appear to have struck a loan deal, with Roma retaining an option to re-sign the player," he revealed.
"If he reaches an agreement with Fulham, he will move to England on loan for the next six months, with Fulham having the option to keep him for a further season."
One of Okaka's two goals this season for Roma came in their 2-1 European win over the London club in November
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/feb/01/celtic-diomansy-kamara-tony-mowbray?
Diomansy Kamara says he joined Celtic because of Tony Mowbray
• Kamara says he turned down offers from France and England
• Striker enjoyed his best year under Mowbray at West Bromwich
Ewan Murray
guardian.co.uk, Monday 1 February 2010 17.26 GMT
Diomansy Kamara has joined Celtic on loan from Fulham until the end of the season. Photograph: David Davies/PA
The Celtic manager, Tony Mowbray, received words of support from one of his new signings Diomansy Kamara today. Kamara says it was the presence of Mowbray, with whom he previously worked when at West Bromwich Albion, which persuaded him to move on loan from Fulham until the end of the season, with the option of a three-year contract at the end of it.
"I had chances to go to France and there was something in England, but I worked with Tony Mowbray at West Brom," Kamara said. "He knows exactly what I can do and where I can play; that is the most important reason I chose Celtic.
"I think I played the best football of my career when I was with him at West Brom. I love training with him. I scored 25 goals during that season with Tony. Yes, it was in the Championship, but it is hard to score goals everywhere. I have spoken with Tony and there's the option of a contract for another three years. That's a big project for me. I don't just want to stay here for three or four months."
Kamara was candid over his time at Craven Cottage, which turned sour following a £6m move from West Brom after the forward incurred a serious knee injury.
"I had a little bit of bad luck at Fulham," he said. "I was injured for eight months and scored towards the end of last season. However, I had another knee injury this season and I could have done more there if I wasn't hurt."
Kamara is expected to feature at some point in tomorrow night's Scottish Premier League game against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, with Celtic 10 points behind the leaders Rangers. His fellow new arrival at Celtic, Edson Braafheid, has been allowed a couple of days leave to attend to personal matters in his native Holland.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/feb/01/fulham-stefano-okaka-loan-roma
Fulham sign striker Stefano Okaka on loan from Roma
• Forward moves to Craven Cottage on six-month contract
• 'It is crucial for me to go to England,' says 20-year-old
Press Association
guardian.co.uk, Monday 1 February 2010 12.55 GMT
Stefano Okaka is hoping his move to Fulham will help him develop as a player. The striker joined the London club today on a six-month loan deal from Roma with an option to remain for a further season in England.
"I have been with Roma for five years," said Okaka. "I have grown thanks to the advice of my team-mates. But to have a leap in quality it is crucial for me to go to England and play in the Premier League. I hope I can return stronger than before. The loan deal expires in June but there is the option to remain there for a further year. We shall see."
Okaka secured a late winner for Roma in yesterday's 2-1 defeat of Siena but the Italian club's manager, Claudio Ranieri, has no regrets over sanctioning the player's exit and hopes his time in London will benefit the team in the long term.
"Stefano is a great lad," said Ranieri. "I have no regrets. He has been at Roma for five years and I believe the experience in England could mark a turning point in his career. He can do a lot more and the Premier League will give us back a much stronger player."
Okaka has made seven league appearances for Roma this season, all as a substitute. The 20-year-old is under contract with the Serie A club until June 2012. He scored against Fulham in the Cottagers' 2-1 defeat at Roma in November.
http://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/spl/celtic/diomansy-kamara-hopes-to-follow-his-hero-larsson-and-become-celtic-king-1.1003133?
Diomansy Kamara hopes to follow his hero Larsson and become Celtic king
0 comments
Published on 1 Feb 2010
THE king has long gone, but his reign may have helped usher another period of prosperity for Celtic.
Henrik Larsson has now moved into management but his playing days provided the inspiration for Diomansy Kamara, the 29-year-old striker, who has joined Celtic on loan until the end of the season.
"I loved Larsson's kind of play when I was younger," said Kamara who completed his move from Fulham yesterday. "I loved George Weah during his days at Paris St Germain and Larsson. Larsson was not the same kind of player as me, but he had great skills and scored amazing goals. He was my hero."
Kamara, who played for Celtic manager Tony Mowbray at West Bromwich Albion, sees the move to Scotland as his opportunity to reignite a career that stalled because of serious knee injuries.
"My main goal is to stay fit and I hope the supporters love me," he said after completing his first training session at Lennoxtown. He did much to make the latter ambition come true by saying: "It was an easy decision to make because Celtic are a massive club. When Tony Mowbray rang me three days ago to tell me Celtic were interested in signing me, I said 'yes'.
"I know him and it is a dream for me to play at Celtic because my football hero was Henrik Larsson. I know the Scottish League is not the Premiership, but I am so happy to come here because the fans are amazing. Playing in a stadium like Parkhead is a dream for every player."
Much of this can be ascribed to the footballer's desire to make a good impression, but there is no doubting Kamara's sincerity when he talked about how important the move north could be for him. At 29, the Senegalese internationalist needs to play regularly and he hopes to extend his stay in Glasgow. "I am on loan at the moment, but I have spoken with Tony and there's the option of a contract for another three years," he said. "I want to be part of the project going on here for the next few years."
The Mowbray factor was crucial to the signing. "I had chances to go back to France and there was something in England, but I worked with Tony Mowbray at West Brom and he knows exactly what I can do and where I can play," said Kamara. "That is the most important reason I chose Celtic.
I played the best football of my career when I was with him at West Brom. I love training with him and I could play behind a big striker or right or left."
Kamara, who has never visited Scotland before, revealed he had some knowledge of Scottish football by referring to the good form of Hibernian, who beat Celtic only last week. He was not dismayed by his departure from the Barclays Premier League. "The Premiership is the best league in the world, but Celtic and Rangers would do so well if they could get down there," he said. "I think they would be in the top five."
He is ready for the fray, making himself available for tonight's game at Rugby Park. "It is nice for me to be able to play immediately and we have a good challenge. We can fight for the title," he said.
Kamara was not daunted by the gap at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League. "Yes, there are 10 points in it, but we have a game in hand and we will reduce that by winning at Kilmarnock," he said. "We also have two games against Rangers and the title will be open if we win those games. We can win the title. There is, of course, the Scottish Cup as well.
"I know it will be hard, but we need to win something this year. It is hard for Celtic to end a season having won nothing. I love to play with pressure on me and I know the fans are crazy. They are the best supporters in the world. Parkhead also has an atmosphere like Anfield and I just want to see it."
Kamara also shrugged off references to his injury problems. "I feel so good now. I am 100% fit and I don't feel anything at all in my knee. I had to be fit to come here. I wouldn't have signed if I was feeling any kind of pain. I have taken my time to come back strong and I am ready."
He will have to be if he is to have any chance of replicating just some of the feats of his football hero.
Diomansy Kamara
age 29 position Forward
height 6ft 1in
international appearances Senegal 49 (9 goals)
career 07-present Fulham;
05-07 West Bromwich
Albion; 04-05 Portsmouth;
01-05 Modena; 99-01
Catanzaro; 98-99 Red Star 93, Paris
http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/02/window-shopping.html?
Window shopping
OUTS
Diomansy Kamara: What a strange in and out player he was for Fulham. His reputation grew as he was injured/sat on the bench this season, but I think he was more a lucky talisman than a consistently brilliant player. Dio gave me my favourite moment watching Fulham, the last-minute, overhead kick equaliser which managed to lob Paul Robinson from the edge of the box in a scintillating 3-3 draw. It was very much Kamara's introduction that gave Fulham the impetus to avoid the drop during the Great Escape, but all his best work has been away from home so I never really connected with him. I hope he does well in Scotland.
Seol Ki-Hyeon: Another enigma, but one with fair less drive than the man from Senegal. Seol had flattered to deceive as a winger and was even less convincing as an auxiliary forward. He will not be missed, which is why the club could get away with simply terminating his contract.
Chris Smalling: It appears that Smalling's strange signing by Manchester United could be the biggest deal in the January transfer window. I don't think anyone would have expected that. Rumours of £8m up front with another £4m of top-ups mean that most fans completely understand why Fulham have sold up. For United it's an unusual type of deal for them, especially given the fact that Smalling hasn't played many Premier League matches. But he has impressed in Europe, I just didn't think he'd impressed THAT much.
But Smalling's not going until summer so he's still here, like Banquo's ghost only less effective especially when teamed with Hangeland. Fergie must have been squirming in his seat at the Cottage on Saturday after the less than stellar defensive performance on show.
Tony Kallio: I've seen this guy play a handful of games since his arrival, but can't actually remember anything about him. If he can't force his way into a team which has no other fit left backs, you've got to wonder what he's done to annoy Hodgson.
INS
Nicky Shorey: An old, respected name but I'd not realised that he hadn't been playing at Villa and was plying his trade in the Championship for Forest. Desperately needed in the short-term and should provide some competition in the left back position when Konchesky gets fit, something I think is long overdue.
Stefano Okaka: Signed off from Roma in some style with a late, backheeled winner but didn't particularly stand out when playing Fulham in the Europa League, despite scoring the winner in Rome. A shame he is cup tied for Europe though, especially with Kamara moving on.
Christopher Buchtmann: Jokes about his surname aside, all the evidence suggests that this 17-year-old kid is a steal from Liverpool's reserves. £100,000 for a player described as one of UEFA's 'Top 10 Stars of the Future' in May 2009? Fantastic! Knowing Roy he won't even get a game during his 18 month contract. Whatever happened to Giles Barnes?
Also on the Stoke bench was striker James Beattie after his proposed moves to Fulham fell through.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1247830/Sunderland-0-Stoke-City-0-Home-crowd-turn-Steve-Bruces-drab-performance-Stadium-Light.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0eM4YN3rh (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1247830/Sunderland-0-Stoke-City-0-Home-crowd-turn-Steve-Bruces-drab-performance-Stadium-Light.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0eM4YN3rh)
Fulham manager Roy Hodgson bolstered his defence with the loan signing of Aston Villa's Nicky Shorey but failed with a £2m bid for Stoke's James Beattie.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1247854/Transfer-deadline-day-just-big-deal-Premier-League-big-guns-cheque-books-shut-Spurs-striker-Robbie-Keanes-Celtic-switch-drama.html#ixzz0eM5iQX4h (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1247854/Transfer-deadline-day-just-big-deal-Premier-League-big-guns-cheque-books-shut-Spurs-striker-Robbie-Keanes-Celtic-switch-drama.html#ixzz0eM5iQX4h)
Unless we engage with this generation, there will be more anti-social behaviour, not less. They need role models - and what have they got? Morons such as John Terry.
My dad wanted a boy, but he got me. Nevertheless, I would accompany him to see his beloved Fulham play until I was 12, standing on the terraces at Craven Cottage every other week.
I saw at first hand how football has the unique power to glue communities together and give them hope.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1247607/John-Terry-Why-time-blow-whistle-footballers-foul-play.html#ixzz0eM6Ygy7v (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1247607/John-Terry-Why-time-blow-whistle-footballers-foul-play.html#ixzz0eM6Ygy7v)
http://thelinc.co.uk/2010/02/in-and-out-imps-transfer-window-slams-shut/
In and out: Imps' transfer window slams shut
By Adrian Bell
| Published On February 1, 2010 | In Lincoln City
The January transfer window has slammed shut and Imps manager Chris Sutton has had a busy month. Photo: Lincoln City F.CLincoln City manager Chris Sutton has had a busy month of transfer activity, as the January transfer window has slammed shut.
The Imps boss has been busy in overhauling his Lincoln City squad as they look to avoid relegation into the Blue Square Premier.
The former Celtic striker who took over the managerial reigns at Sincil Bank from Peter Jackson in September, has used his contacts particularly at Fulham and Aston Villa to guide his side away from the League Two relegation zone.
Arguably the most important January acquisition was the extension of Chris Herd's loan from Premiership outfit Aston Villa. The Australian has played a pivotal role in the Imps upturn of form with two goals to his name.
Although the window has shut, meaning permanent transfer deals cannot be done, clubs can still sign loan players and sign players without a club. Here's the full list of Lincoln City's January transfer dealings:
IN:
Joe Anderson – Anderson has signed a permanent deal at Sincil Bank, arriving from Premiership side Fulham for an undisclosed fee. The youngster who spent a loan spell at non-league Woking last season has been a solid addition to the Imps defence.
Adam Watts – The giant centre half, like Anderson, arrived from Fulham for an undisclosed fee after an impressive loan spell at the club. Watts' arrival was Sutton's first acquisition when he signed on loan from the Cottagers. Watts has done well in shoring up the Imps backline.
Nathan Baker – The England Under 19 centre half has joined the Imps on loan from Aston Villa. The highly rated centre half has formed a solid partnership with Adam Watts since he's been at the club. Baker is a no-nonsense defender who likes a good challenge.
Clark Keltie – The centre midfielder has signed a deal until the end of the season following his release from League Two rivals Rochdale. Keltie rejected the chance to join Darlington in favour of a move to Sincil Bank. Keltie has made one start for the Imps and looks to be a good league two capture.
Chris Herd - The Australian who has signed a loan deal until the end of the season from Aston Villa has been a pivitol figure in guiding the Imps away from the relegation zone. The Imps have already made known their intentions to capture Herd, whose contract runs out at the end of the season, on a permanent contract.
Matthew Saunders – The hard working central midfielder has been a hit at Sincil Bank since his arrival on a month's loan from Fulham. Unfortunately for the Imps, Saunders has gone back to Fulham following to undergo treatment on an injury, but Imps boss Chris Sutton has made known he would like to bring Saunders back.
Delroy Facey – Delroy is a typical League Two target man, big, strong and not afraid to put his body about. Facey is currently in his second month on loan from Notts County. The bustling striker has notched one goal to date, a terrific header as the Imps defeated Chesterfield 2-1 on Boxing Day.
Michael Uwezu - The pacy striker, like Matthew Saunders, joined on a month's loan from Premier League side Fulham, and also like Saunders, had to go back to his parent club following an injury. Uwezu struggled to make an impact at Sincil Bank, failing to make a single start. Sutton has no plans in bringing Uwezu back.
Steven Lennon – The young Scotsman is on a loan deal that runs until the end of the season. The nippy striker failed to make the grade at Ibrox, but will be best known for a hat-trick for Rangers as they beat Celtic in a Youth Cup Final fixture.
OUT:
Joe Heath – The left back was signed by former boss Peter Jackson at the beginning of the season on a six-month loan from Championship side Nottingham Forest. Heath's Lincoln City career had been hampered by injury and following the completion of his spell at Sincil Bank, returned to Forest and was subsequently released.
Graham Hutchinson – The Imps youngster joined Premiership side Fulham for a month's trial, and as of yet there has been no official news of any possible transfer.
James loses wage war
Published: Today
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JAMES BEATTIE'S £2.5million move to Fulham collapsed after he demanded a staggering £45,000 a week.
The Stoke striker even had a medical before boss Roy Hodgson pulled the plug.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2834692/James-loses-wage-war.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=Football#ixzz0eMAPDHDC (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2834692/James-loses-wage-war.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=Football#ixzz0eMAPDHDC)
Nic Ful of joy over big move
Published: Today
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NICKY SHOREY said thanks to Martin O'Neill after joining Fulham on loan.
Shorey, 28, is desperate to get his career back on track after losing his place under boss O'Neill at Villa.
The left-back said: "I can't thank Martin enough for the opportunity to get some first-team action in the Prem-ier League.
"I am keen to show everyone I have the quality needed to play in the top flight."
Fulham also signed Italy Under-21 striker Stefano Okaka from Roma until the end of the season - and snapped up German youngster Christopher Buchtmann, 17, from Liverpool.
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2834749/Nic-Ful-of-joy-over-big-move.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=Football#ixzz0eMAwGPeW (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2834749/Nic-Ful-of-joy-over-big-move.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=Football#ixzz0eMAwGPeW)
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Beattie-s-2m-Fulham-move-falls-through-as-Stoke-dawdle-over-deal-article309171.html
Beattie's £2m Fulham move falls through as Stoke dawdle over deal
Published 23:13 01/02/10
By Alan Nixon
James Beattie is stuck with Stoke City after Fulham failed to sign him for £2million – because he could not reach London to have a medical.
Beattie, 31, has been looking to leave since his bust-up with boss Tony Pulis and was ready to pack his bags at the team hotel on Wearside, but it was too late to make it to the capital for vital checks.
The far-travelled forward needed a medical as he was looking for a two-and-a-half year contract and Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed demands stringent checks before parting with his cash.
Stoke took too long to accept Fulham's offer, holding up the transfer in a piece of brinkmanship that cost them the sale.
Pulis will now have to carry on working with Beattie despite their heated dispute in the Arsenal dressing room and his failed exit will please neither man.
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Adam-Johnson-from-Middlesbrough-to-Man-City-the-biggest-move-of-transfer-deadline-day-as-Premier-League-clubs-spend-less-than-20m-article308987.html
Fulham were arguably the day's busiest club, signing Roma striker Stefano Okaka and Aston Villa defender Nicky Shorey on loan, and also snapping up Liverpool starlet Christopher Buchtmann on an 18-month contract
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Chris-Smalling-a-snip-for-Manchester-United-at-12million-says-Fulham-defender-Aaron-Hughes-article308217.html
Smalling a snip at £12million, says Aaron Hughes
Published 23:00 31/01/10
By John Cross
Chris Smalling had another nightmare in front of his new boss - but was still tipped to be a £12m bargain.
Sir Alex Ferguson was at Craven Cottage to watch his new signing, having been at White Hart Lane last week to see Fulham lose at Tottenham.
Fulham defender Smalling was undone by Peter Crouch at Spurs and was exposed by Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor beating him to a near-post cross on Saturday.
On the face of it, England under-21 defender Smalling may already be looking like an expensive signing struggling to live up to his potential in the glare of publicity following his incredible rise to prominence.
But Fulham team mate Aaron Hughes insists that 20-year-old Smalling will prove to be money well spent after agreeing to join United on a four-year contract from this summer.
Northern Ireland defender Hughes said: "I think we'll look back in a few years and see it as a bargain.
"When Manchester United and Arsenal come in, they're no mugs, they've watched him, he's been in the under-21s and I think United will look back and say they stole him.
"You wouldn't know that he's just signed a four year contract at Manchester United. He's a quiet lad, he just goes about his business and if anyone deserves the success then it's him.
"He came here from non-league at Maidstone two years ago, got his head down, worked really, really hard and you can see the progression he's made in such a short space of time."
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson insisted Ferguson would not have been worried about Smalling finishing up on the losing side.
Hodgson added: "I know Sir Alex thinks very, very highly of him and I think he would have been very impressed with his composure, very impressed with the way he dealt once or twice with the long balls over the top of his head chased by the speedy Agbonlahors, Downings, Ashley Youngs.
"He, like myself, would have preferred to have seen him get his head on that cross but like me he'll understand it was a clever piece of play by Agbonlahor.
"I would have thought Sir Alex went home thinking; that lad is still the player I think he is and I expect he'll hope that he'll go on playing for us because in every game he plays for us, he's learning enormously."
http://hammyend.com/?p=5082 (http://hammyend.com/?p=5082)
Where are they now: Andrejs Stolcers?
(http://www.lff.lv/pics/speletaji/stolcers_andrejs180.jpg)
Andrejs Stolcers has moved from Bath City to Hayes and Yeading on a free transfer.
I remember the optimism about our new Latvian arrival when he sealed a fine win at the Hawthorns with Fulham's third goal against West Brom having come on as a second half substitute. A decade later and he's earning a living in non-league football.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/8487968.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/8487968.stm)
Fulham sign Shorey, Okaka and Buchtmann
(http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/47224000/jpg/_47224412_fuls226x170_3split.jpg)
Shorey, Okaka and Buchtmann will bolster Roy Hodgson's options
Fulham completed three signings on the last day of the January transfer window as Nicky Shorey, Stefano Okaka and Christopher Buchtmann all arrived.
Aston Villa left-back Shorey, 27, and highly-rated 20-year-old Roma striker Okaka are on loan until the summer.
Fulham have an option to make Shorey's move permanent and extend Okaka's stay by a further year when it expires.
Liverpool left-back Buchtmann, 17, has penned an 18-month deal and concludes the London club's mid-season activity.
Shorey began his professional career at Leyton Orient before moving to Reading in 2001.
He played an integral role in helping the Royals gain promotion to the Premier League in 2006 and made his full England debut against Brazil at Wembley in 2007.
Shorey gained his second cap against Germany before signing a three-year deal with Villa in 2008.
He was a regular in his first season at Villa Park but slipped down the pecking order following the arrival of Stephen Warnock last summer.
Shorey went on loan to Nottingham Forest earlier this season and played nine times before Villa boss Martin O'Neill recalled him last week.
O'Neill has now allowed him to join Fulham, whose first-choice left-back Paul Konchesky is injured.
And Fulham boss Roy Hodgson will have more left-sided backup in the form of Buchtmann.
The German youth international, who joined Liverpool from Borussia Dortmund in 2008, helped the Anfield club's to the 2009 FA Youth Cup final.
He also played a key role in his country's triumph at the 2009 European Under-17 Championship.
Italy Under-21 international Okaka played in both Europa League games between Roma and Fulham this season, scoring in Roma's 2-1 win at the Olympic Stadium.
He also scored a late winner for Roma with an audacious backheel in their 2-1 win over Siena on Sunday.
Roma boss Claudio Ranieri said: "Stefano is a great lad. He has been at Roma for five years and I believe the experience in England could mark a turning point in his career.
"He can do a lot more and the Premier League will give us back a much stronger player."
Okaka made his first-team debut for Roma in 2005 and scored his first goal for the club in September 2006.
The forward, who was loaned out to Modena and Brescia last season, said: "I have grown thanks to the advice of my team-mates, but to have a leap in quality, it is crucial for me to go to England and play in the Premier League.
"I hope I can return stronger than before."
Okaka completed a medical last week and Hodgson revealed the club had been monitoring the striker long before his the clubs met in Europe.
"We've monitored him for a long time, before we were drawn against Roma in Europe," said Hodgson, who has been keen to boost his strikeforce following injuries to Andy Johnson and Clint Dempsey.
"His name was well known to our scouting staff."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8443604.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8443604.stm)
Fulham v Portsmouth
TEAM NEWS
Fulham are likely to name Stefano Okaka, who has signed on loan from Roma, amongst their substitutes.
Another new loan signing, Nicky Shorey, is expected to take his place in the squad and Dickson Etuhu has returned from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Portsmouth boss Avram Grant may again make a host of changes following his side's defeat at Manchester City.
But David James is expected to continue in goal and Quincy Owusu-Abeyie may make his first his start for the club.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fulham
Suspended: None Doubtful: None
Injured: Dempsey, Johnson & Pantsil (all knee), Konchesky (ankle)
Portsmouth
Suspended: None Doubtful: Belhadj, Kanu & Yebda (all Africa Cup of Nations)
Injured: Brown (back), Diop (hamstring)
MATCH PREVIEW
While Portsmouth seemed to have lurched from one crisis to another over the past 18 months, Fulham have made serene and steady progress under the stewardship of Roy Hodgson.
The weekend saw Portsmouth not only lose out on another three points, but lose their most valuable asset in Younes Kaboul, who was sold to Tottenham Hotspur against the wishes of manager Avram Grant.
Although they lost the rags v riches encounter against Manchester City, the players at least showed some fire and spirit as the club comes apart at the seams around them.
An insipid defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday was out of character for Fulham and saw them lose for the first time in 11 matches at Craven Cottage, a record they had protected since September.
Five defeats on the spin has yet to set the alarm bells ringing, but such is the concertina-like appearance of the bottom half of the Premier League this season they are now only seven points off the relegation places.
When in a slump, though who better to face than Portsmouth, who continue to unravel at an alarming rate, although the sale of Kaboul at least meant the players could finally be paid, for now.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
• Fulham have won three and drawn one of their last four Premier League meetings with Portsmouth.
• Fulham won the encounter earlier this season at Fratton Park thanks to a goal from Bobby Zamora.
• The overall record between the two sides is: Fulham have 13 wins, Portsmouth 23 and there have been 18 draws.
Fulham
• On Saturday Fulham suffered their first defeat at Craven Cottage since they succumbed 1-0 to Arsenal on 26 September, a run of 11 matches.
• The Cottagers have failed to win any of their last seven league games and have not scored in their last three matches.
Portsmouth
• Portsmouth have won just one of their last seven league games (W1, D2, L4).
• Their total of 15 points after 22 games is Portsmouth's lowest-ever return at this stage of a Premier League season.
• Pompey have scored 19 league goals this season, the joint worst record in the league along with Wolves.
LEADING GOALSCORERS
Fulham
Zamora: 11 goals (6 league); Dempsey: 7 goals (6 league)
Portsmouth
Piquionne: 6 goals (3 league); Boateng: 4 goals (3 league)
MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Anthony Taylor
Assistant referees: Mick McDonough & Phil Sharp
Fourth official: Alan Wiley
LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
Fulham (L0-2, Aston Villa, h): Schwarzer, Hughes, Smalling, Hangeland, Kelly (Riise 74), Duff, Murphy, Baird, Davies (Gera 24), Zamora, Nevland (Elm 65). Subs not used: Zuberbuhler, Stoor, Greening, Dikgacoi.
Portsmouth (L0-2 v Man City, a): James, Vanden Borre, Ben-Haim, Wilson, Hreidarsson (Finnan 27), Mullins (Owusu-Abeyie 85), Basinas, Jamie O'Hara, Webber (Piquionne 77), Utaka, Boateng. Subs not used: Ashdown, Hughes, Ritchie, Sowah.
MOST RECENT MEETING
Portsmouth 0-1 Fulham (15 August 2009)
Fulham scorer: Zamora 13
http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/02/02/fulham-star-set-for-bust-up-with-boss-64767-25738494/ (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2010/02/02/fulham-star-set-for-bust-up-with-boss-64767-25738494/)
Fulham star set for bust-up with boss
Feb 2 2010 By Paul Warburton
FULHAM are ready for a bust-up with John Pantsil over the date of the crocked defender's return from injury.
The Ghanaian international is already seething because he's missed his country's glory run in the African Cup of Nations, and his manager reckons he's got more trouble on his hands when Pantsil gets closer to fitness after suffering cruciate damage.
Roy Hodgson said: "John will push it to the limit.
"He won't be taking another week just in case. He'll be the one trying to nick a week and arguing with the physios to let him loose – and we've got to be careful with him."
The right-back, signed from West Ham as part of the £6million joint deal with Bobby Zamora in the summer of 2008, got caught in the Boxing Day clash with Chelsea by Didier Drogba – and suffered the injury that leaves him five weeks away from action.
But if he's champing at the traces now – he'd better watch his step if he doesn't want to fall out with his manager.
Hodgson said: "John will have to toe the line, and another five weeks from now will give us a better idea. I think we have to be grateful he didn't need an operation."
http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/02/02/fulham-on-the-slide-but-heres-why-they-will-avoid-relegation-f/ (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/02/02/fulham-on-the-slide-but-heres-why-they-will-avoid-relegation-f/)
Fulham On the Slide, but Here's Why they Will Avoid Relegation Fears
Fulham's supporters have good reason to fear a relegation battle this season. The club's 2-0 defeat against Aston Villa on Saturday was their fifth in succession in the top flight.It is a dreadful run of results which is a world away from the euphoria of their 3-0 win over Manchester United in mid December. Manager Roy Hodgson admitted Fulham were poor against Aston Villa - yet FanHouse believes the Cottagers will be safe from relegation this season. And here's six reasons explaining why.
Roy Hodgson:
The canny manager is a clever operator and will not allow the club to slip back to their old ways. Fulham supporters will need no reminding they were perennial relegation battlers under previous managers Chris Coleman and Lawrie Sanchez. Hodgson is under no illusions that Fulham's results have been down to bad luck. The normally mild-mannered manager was openly critical of his side's display against Villa. He said: "We've suffered a bad home defeat and don't feel good about that, but we weren't diabolical. We're suffering from our injury situation but we were disappointed with the manner in which we conceded those goals." Hodgson is widely regarded as one of the best managers in Europe and if Fulham need to get out of trouble, then he has the technical knowledge to help them.
The Spirit of 2008:
When Hodgson took over the reins from Lawrie Sanchez, many football fans had Fulham nailed on for relegation. Yet somehow he managed to turn their losing streak around and the players adopted a winning mentality which effectively saved their season and maintained their Premier League status. Victory at Fratton Park in 2008 sparked scenes of jubilation and to this day, supporters talk about those 90 minutes as a defining moment in the club's history. That spirit is still present at Fulham and, until recently, most evident in games at Craven Cottage. The club have beaten both Manchester United and Liverpool at their traditional ground in west London and it's those results which keep them out of the relegation zone.
Current Form:
While their results are a cause for concern, performances have not been too bad. Against Villa they switched off and were punished before half time. Against Tottenham last Tuesday night they were unlucky not to open the scoring and had further chances late in the game. In their previous match at Blackburn, they again lacked the killer touch in attack. They have now gone three league games without scoring a goal and that is a headache for Hodgson ,but he will suggest it is simply a blip and will point to a 3-1 victory over Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup. The match was a potential banana skin, yet they came though unscathed.
Return of Key Men:
It is no coincidence Fulham's goalless and winless streak happened at a time when their influential striker Bobby Zamora was ruled out with a shoulder injury. The former West Ham striker has now recovered and is gingerly edging his way back to match fitness. Andrew Johnson is also closing in on a return. The England international will no doubt be spurred on by Zamora's excellent form and looking to match his team-mate's scoring exploits. The loss of American international Clint Dempsey is a blow, but Hodgson's squad is large enough to cope.
The Defence:
It may seem a contradiction in terms, but Fulham do have a strong defence, particular at centre back and in goal. Chris Smalling has been tipped to have a bright future and explains why Sir Alex Ferguson has lavished about £7m on him. Giant defender Brede Hangeland was also highly sought after and will offer a calming influence at the back. Aaron Hughes gives Hodgson versatility and has developed a good understanding with Hangeland. Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is another reason for Fulham to be optimistic. The Australian has been in excellent form since he arrived on a free transfer in May 2008.
The Relegation Rivals:
Fulham are in 11th place in the league table and have a cushion of seven points over Burnley, who are third from bottom. That shows how tight the league table is at the moment. Portsmouth's position at the foot of the table renders them favourites for relegation, so the remaining two relegation places will probably be contested by Wolves, Burnley, Stoke, West Ham and Bolton. Fulham cannot rely on the mantra of being too good to go down. It's just the sides below them are too bad to stay up.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=734996&sec=transfers (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=734996&sec=transfers)
Kamara completes Celtic loan switch
Fulham striker Diomansy Kamara has joined Celtic on a six-month loan with an option for a permanent deal.
Kamara, 29, had played under Celtic boss Tony Mowbray at West Brom and moves to Parkhead hoping for regular first-team football after finding opportunities limited at Fulham.
Kamara told Celtic's official website: "I'm delighted to sign for Celtic and I am very much looking forward to joining up with the manager and my new team-mates.
"Celtic is a magnificent football club. I will be looking to do my very best to contribute and bring the supporters success and hopefully enjoy a long future with the club."
Netherlands defender Edson Braafheid was another player to join Celtic on loan on Monday. Braafheid had been at Bayern Munich and moves to Scotland in search of regular first-team football ahead of the World Cup.
Celtic have also announced the signing of 18-year-old Paul Slane from Motherwell on a four-year deal.
Motherwell chairman John Boyle told the club's official website: "We have tried and tried to get Paul to sign a long- term contract but, much to our extreme disappointment, he has continually refused.
"We have offered the player improved competitive terms in line with other progressing youngsters at the club but both personally and through his agent, he has refused.
"Paul has been at the club for six years and we have financed his development and nurtured his talent, culminating in his senior debut at the end of last season.
"We have also stuck by and supported him over those years through both personal issues and injury and felt we were due some degree of loyalty for our efforts. Sadly he has chosen to refuse our offers and move on to Celtic."
http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/default.aspx?Tab=1&Page=6&Article=1308
Club Focus - Fulham - Has the transfer window addressed the Whites' problems?
By Matt Domm
Fulham's knack of providing out-of-sorts strikers with the confidence they require continued at Craven Cottage on Saturday, as Gabriel Agbonlahor was handed two goals courtesy of the Whites' centre-backs, Brede Hangeland and Chris Smalling.
For the first goal, both players combined. Hangeland, caught in no man's land trying to leave the ball to his goalkeeper, decided not to make a decision and the ball went out for an Aston Villa throw in a dangerous position. From the throw, Stiliyan Petrov swung the ball in, and Smalling, taking Roy Hodgson's advice to respect the opposition too literally, stepped aside to let Agbonlahor out-jump him to nod past Mark Schwarzer. The game was lost a few minutes later and this time Hangeland can take the full blame. Agbonlahor, known usually for his pace rather than his strength, swatted the Norwegian aside to create himself a good five yards of space - the rest was history. Such mistakes from the centre-backs are rare, however, and the real issue lies with the fact that Fulham were never going to get even one goal back with two more centre-backs playing on the right and left of defence. Having to replace both marauding full-backs with out-and-out defenders has nullified any attacking width and has put a stop to the team's creating of chances.
Before January, the need for another striker was the prominent issue. However, with the faces of John Pantsil and Paul Konchesky not likely to be seen for another couple of months, combined with the incredible loss of form since the pair's injuries, switched this emphasis to finding cover for both full-backs. Hodgson seems prepared to give Stephen Kelly the nod to replace Pantsil on the right (although he has been played out of position on the left in recent fixtures, to little effect), but the manager has apparently identified the need to cover Konchesky by bringing in Villa's Nicky Shorey on loan. In a window where Fulham generally opt for loan deals over full transfers, the capture of Shorey, while it isn't the ideal of bringing Konchesky back, represents a solid deal and a definite strengthening of the side. At the very least, Shorey will go beyond the half-way line when attacking and provide options for whomever Hodgson selects on the left wing. More importantly, a full-back who is competent going forward will provide vital width and take the pressure off Danny Murphy as the sole source of attack. Although Konchesky is prone to the odd lapse of concentration, the side is far stronger with him in it, and Shorey should at least compensate for his absence.
This has not stopped Hodgson pursuing his interest in Stefano Okaka and the loan deal was finally wrapped up yesterday morning. The details seem to give Fulham the opportunity of extending the deal for next season too, if, of course, Roma do not want him back instead. Okaka is a good prospect who sealed his move with a stunning back-heel effort for Roma at the weekend, but the deal appears to be far better for the Italians than Fulham. There are two ways the forward's next few months can go. Either he sets the Premier League alight and fires Fulham to a comfortable top-half finish, or he doesn't adapt quickly enough and ends up with few, if any, goals come May. If it is the former, Roma will snatch him back for their first team next season, and with the latter, the Whites send him back and that is the end of it. Whichever way it is, there is little chance of Okaka playing for Fulham next season.
Both have been signed in time for the visit of Portsmouth on Wednesday night, although knowing Hodgson the two will likely be blended into action slowly. Of course, things can hardly get worse than the current defensive situation, so this writer will be interested to see whether the manager puts his faith in the left-back from the off. Having lost a hot prospect in Smalling this window, the club has snapped up 17-year-old German wing-back Christopher Buchtmann for a nominal fee. Recognised as a strong European prospect, the German could be one to watch for the future, but his signing doesn't represent an immediate improvement to the squad.
That concludes a somewhat unconvincing window in which several players left and not many came the other way. Time will tell if the squad's issues have been fixed, but at least Hodgson didn't panic. He can leave that up to the fans.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5084
The January sales
by Dan on February 2, 2010
If you filled a room with football people and asked them about the January transfer window, you'd be hardpressed to find too many supporters. I saw Niall Quinn on Sky yesterday morning wondering aloud as to which other business would impose such restrictions on hiring and firing practices during the year. The complaint from managers is similarly practical: the best players aren't available and you often pay over the odds for what you can get in January.
Love it or loathe it, the window's with us and probably will be for a while yet. The messageboards tend to go through several mood swings on transfer deadline day: extreme optimism, followed by euphoria as we announce a signing, and then bouts of pessimism. It still seems a little early to analyse Fulham's transfer activity as the dust settles, but for the most part I'm happy with the direction that Roy's taking the team.
His three signings yesterday seem to have addressed three of the key areas where we were light. Nicky Shorey is an England international left back and left full-back is one of the places where we've been struggling of late. Bringing somebody in suggests that we might be without Paul Konchesky for a little while – and the manner in which both Aston Villa's goals came down the right on Saturday suggests that we badly miss Konch. Shorey's got a point to prove, too. His career's rather gone off the rails since he left Reading and, even if talk of an England recall seems a little far-fetched, Shorey's in need of first-team football.
Stefano Okaka has come in on loan, putting an end to a protracted transfer saga that has run and run throughout January. There seems to be some confusion over whether Fulham have an option to sign the Italian on a permanent basis. Sky reported his agent suggesting that was the case, although over sources talk about clauses to extend the loan. Okaka's raw, for sure, but he's got pace and a lively quality that could make our front line a little less predictable, especially in light of the rather disappointing departure of Diomansy Kamara to Celtic.
Hodgson's final deadline day signing was certainly one for the future. Christopher Buchtmann has been highlighted regarded as a promising German youth international and his versatility means he can play in several positions, either in defence or on the wing. His departure from Liverpool had their forums spewing with anger and contributors suggesting that it is another sign of a club in decline. You can sense the hand of Malcolm Elias in this deal – and we can only hope that young Buchtmann can justify the buzz around his signing by the end of his 18-month deal.
I'm still a little ambivalent on the Smalling deal, which we've addressed before. There's still something nagging away at me that selling our brightest young prospect in years to the first serious offer strikes me as distinctly unambitious. Whilst £12m seems like a good deal for someone with few first-team games under his belt, imagine what he could have been worth with another season in the side? The fact that Hodgson's had to deal in loans and youth prospects suggests that the Smalling money wasn't likely to be reinvested in the side and, whilst I remain fully behind Roy, releasing some funds might have helped to halt our recent winless run.
Hodgson has at least managed to trim the squad further. Seol, who had drifted away from the first-team picture, whilst Adam Watts and Joe Anderson have also moved on. Matthew Briggs has certainly made an impression on loan at Leyton Orient and Wayne Brown will be hoping to do so with Bristol Rovers. The latter might be a little disappointed not to have forced his way in the first-team picture, but a loan offers him a chance of something a little more competitive than matches with the stiffs. As David Stockdale has proven, it could be a great opportunity to build confidence before coming into the team.
http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/frattonlatest/OHara-Craven-Cottage-win-can.6033576.jp
O'Hara: Craven Cottage win can get us back in the mix
02 February 2010
By Jordan Cross
The midfielder wouldn't have returned to Pompey if he didn't think his team could get out of trouble this season.
And he feels a trip to wobbling Fulham tomorrow could provide the Blues with the perfect opportunity to get their fight for survival ADVERTISEMENTback on track.
O'Hara saw enough from Sunday's defeat at Manchester City to draw confidence going into the clash at Craven Cottage.
Pompey carved out a host of clear-cut chances at the City of Manchester Stadium, but paid for their profligacy and sloppy defending.
There was enough about their general play to be encouraged about moving forward.
Avram Grant's side, though, quite simply have to turn positive performances into a tangible reward.
Taking on a team who have lost their past five games represents a perfect chance to do that.
Roy Hodgson's side also have injury worries going into the game with the likes of Andrew Johnson, Clint Dempsey, John Pantsil (all knee) and Paul Konchesky (ankle) sidelined.
Fulham may have been on a downward slump, but they still represent a tough opponent on home soil – a place they hadn't played in the league for over a month before the weekend.
O'Hara doesn't see why his team shouldn't have confidence in picking up a return from their trip to the capital, though.
He said: 'We have tough games coming up, but big games.
'Fulham have just been beaten at home. There is no reason we can't go there and get a result.
'We need to pick up points. There is a long way to go still.
'If we can pick up three points that will get us right back into the mix.
'We are six points adrift, but we are still in there and have to keep fighting.
'We have to believe as a team and as a club we can get out of trouble.
'I think we played well at Man City. They are a massive club with fantastic players.
'They are going to be up there challenging for titles.
'We gave them a run for their money, though.
'Apart from the soft goals, I don't think they created much more than us.
'We have to believe in ourselves and believe we can get something out of the Fulham game.'
O'Hara's return has offered a bright spot among the sea of negativity Pompey fans have had to digest lately.
Just as refreshing is the 23-year-old's attitude.
O'Hara made it clear he was determined to find regular first-team football, and was not happy with fleeting appearances at Spurs.
That led to him agreeing his first loan stay at Pompey back in August.
He made it clear he was not walking away from the Blues' fight for survival when that agreement came to a close midway through January.
It's the sort of commitment that has made him a massive hit with the Fratton faithful.
His never-say-die approach is the sort that is appreciated among supporters, too.
O'Hara said: 'I wouldn't have come back if I thought we were just going to get beat every week.
'I think we have a squad to get out of it.
'City didn't play us off the park and we got caught on the break.
'We have to believe we can get out of it and take our chances when they come.'
Bounce Back
Tuesday 2nd February 2010
Fulham FC News
Fulham return to the Cottage on Wednesday night (Tickets on General Sale)| hoping to get back to winning ways against Portsmouth and following Saturday's defeat to Aston Villa, defender Aaron Hughes spoke of the disappointment that will spur his Team on tomorrow evening.
"We were disappointed with the goals we gave away but we tried to stick to what we were doing," explained Hughes. "We kept going but unfortunately we just didn't get anything from the game and that happens.
"Villa are no mugs. They go about their business well, got their goals and defend very well. It was always going to be a tough game anyway and it was unfortunate we couldn't get anything from Saturday's match."
Hughes highlights two characteristics required to end Fulham's recent run of defeats which the Whites have shown in abundance this season and the Northern Ireland international is confident one win will get his Team back on track.
"It can happen in this league," said Hughes. "You can go on a four or five game winning streak and everyone's jumping around but you must never lose sight of the fact that it can also go the other way, and we know that.
"At the minute we just need a win and I wouldn't say we're overly worried about it. We are aware of it and we will do what we can to get ourselves out of it. Sometimes this happens and you've got to show a bit of character and strength and just keep going to get out of it."
The current spate of injuries at the Club means Hughes is currently operating at right back and whilst not his natural playing position, the defender is evidently a true Team player.
"Sometimes you can get away with missing one or two players and shuffle the squad but with Clint, AJ, two full backs out and Simon getting a knock on Saturday - it's the way it's going at the moment but hopefully we can get the lads back soon and we'll be alright.
"We know we have to shuffle round at the moment and the Manger wants me to do a job and that's fine and I'll do my best. I'll do everything I can to help the Team."
Team-mate Chris Smalling has taken up Hughes' central defensive berth in recent games and Hughes praised the youngster's modestly and professionalism in light of his recent transfer to Manchester United and is delighted Smalling will remain at the Cottage until the end of the current season.
"You wouldn't know he's just signed for Manchester United in the dressing room," said Hughes. "He's a quiet lad who just goes about his business and if there's anyone deserving enough of getting something like that it's him.
"He's came in two years ago, kept his head down, listened to what everyone told him and worked really, really hard. He's made such progression in such a short space of time the likes of Manchester United have been keeping tabs on him. It's come to a point where they've made a move and it's nice that he can stay here until the end of the season."
Tickets are now on General Sale for Wednesday night's game at the Cottage. Get behind Roy and the Team as the Whites take on Portsmouth. Buy your tickets online| , by phone ( 0870 442 1234 ) or in person from the Cottage Ticket Office (Open 9-5 weekdays).
Adults from £30
Juniors from £10
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/HughesonVilla.aspx#ixzz0eNCkhZfs (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/HughesonVilla.aspx#ixzz0eNCkhZfs)
Back the Boys
Tuesday 2nd February 2010
Fulham FC News
Be amongst the first to see Fulham's new additions when Roy Hodgson's side take on Portsmouth at Craven Cottage this Wednesday evening!
With The Whites still searching for their first win since that memorable 3-0 defeat of Manchester United in mid-December, Wednesday's game is absolutely vital and your support could make all the difference!
Get behind the team by purchasing your tickets now!
Fulham v Portsmouth ticket info and prices |.
Burnley - Tuesday 9th February (Kick-Off 8pm)
In our second home game in six days, Burnley visit Craven Cottage on Tuesday 9th February (Kick-Off 8pm) in another crucial evening of Barclays Premier League football.
Fulham v Burnley ticket info & prices |.
FA Cup 5th Round - Sunday 14th February (Kick-Off 3pm)
Tickets for The Whites FA Cup 5th Round tie against either Wigan Athletic or Notts County on Sunday 14th February (Kick-Off 3pm) are available now. Season Ticket Holders seats will only be held until 5pm today before being released for General Sale.
Fulham v Notts County or Wigan ticket info & prices |.
FC Shakhtar Donetsk - Thursday 18th February (Kick-Off 8:05pm)
The Whites are back in European action on Thursday 18th February (Kick-Off 8:05pm) when FC Shakhtar Donetsk visit Craven Cottage in the last 32 of the Europa League.
Fulham v Shakhtar Donestsk ticket info & prices |.
Manchester City – On sale from Tuesday 2nd February!
Tickets for the visit of Roberto Mancini's Manchester City side to Craven Cottage on Saturday 20th March (Kick-Off 3pm) will be available to Season Ticket Holders from 9am on Tuesday 2nd February. Members will be able to purchase their tickets from Thursday 4th February, with any remaining tickets going on General Sale from Tuesday 9th February.
Fulham v Manchester City ticket info & prices |.
Tickets can be purchased online |, in person from the Ticket Office or by calling 0870 442 1234 (option 1).
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/Ticketingupdate.aspx#ixzz0eND39uEy (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/Ticketingupdate.aspx#ixzz0eND39uEy)
Fulham v Manchester City
Barclays Premier League
Saturday 20th March
Kick-Off 15:00
On-sale dates
Season Ticket Holders Now on sale (Max 6 tickets)
Fulham Club Members 4th February (Max 6 tickets)
General Sale 11th February (Max 6 tickets)
Buy tickets online|
My First Matchday Package
My First Matchday offers Junior supporters and an accompanying adult the opportunity to see what really goes on behind the scenes at Craven Cottage in the build-up to matchday. Pretend you're a radio commentator in the press box, run down the tunnel, pretend you're directing the players from the Manager's seat in the dugout, interview a guardian in front of the TV interview boards, see our trophy cabinet and even meet a Fulham FC legend! More info and prices|
How to Buy Tickets
buy tickets online - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day. Save on booking fees by booking online*
by phone on 0870 442 1234 (option 1) - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day
in person from the Ticket Office: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm
by fax 0207 384 4810 (download printable form )
by postal application to FFC Ticket Office, Stevenage Road, Fulham, SW6 6HH enclosing a stamped addressed envelope (download printable form )
Seatwave - the official fan-to-fan ticket exchange
Thomas Cook - match breaks for all Fulham FC home games
* Lower booking fees compared to telephone booking
Prices
Category A+ prices apply to this match.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FulhamvManCity.aspx#ixzz0eNDH2vN2 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/FulhamvManCity.aspx#ixzz0eNDH2vN2)
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/football-transfers/7131440/Chilling-proof-of-recession-in-Premier-League.html
Chilling proof of recession in Premier League
The January transfer window traditionally culminates in a deadline-day parade of last-minute deals by the desperate, the doomed, and Tottenham Hotspur.
By Paul Kelso, Chief Sports Reporter
Published: 7:45AM GMT 02 Feb 2010
When the window closed with an anti-climactic whimper on Monday however it also offered chilling evidence that the cold economic realities facing the wider economy have finally caught up with football.
Gross spending in the past four weeks across all four divisions in England was about £50 million, the lowest figure since the first year that two-window system was introduced in 2003, when £40 million was spent.
At 5.30pm on Monday, spending by Premier League clubs stood at just £41.5 million, according to accountants KPMG, with around a third of that attributed to Chris Smalling's proposed move from Fulham to Manchester United in the summer for a fee that could eventually total £12 million.
The reduced spending by Premier League clubs is just 20 per cent of the record £190 million of business done in January last year. While almost half of that was attributable to the Manchester City spending spree and Tottenham's rebuilding under new manager Harry Redknapp, this year's figures represent a marked reduction.
While some of the downturn in spending is explained by a growing distaste for January business among leading clubs, the impact of the recession is undoubtedly a significant factor.
Relegation-threatened clubs are typically active in January, but with Portsmouth, Hull and West Ham all financially challenged they were limited players.
Geoff Mesher, head of the KPMG Forensic Sports Industry Team, said football was finally feeling the impact of recession. "Whilst the UK has just recently exited recession it appears that football may just be entering it," he said. "Financial uncertainty still exists for a number of English clubs and many club chairmen will look at the current plight of Portsmouth, facing a winding up order on Feb 10 in the High Court, with concern."
Spending levels this year may reflect a more cautious approach by clubs, but there are also practical reasons connected to the financial crisis that make short-term gambles in the transfer market harder to pull off.
Many clubs have relied in the past on short-term financing from smaller "boutique" lenders, securitised against elements of future income. With the tightening of the credit markets and the collapse of several lenders in this market the options for clubs, many of whom carry significant debt, has narrowed.
"There is definitely a little bit of a hole in the market for short-term finance because some of the providers that operated in this space offering clubs financing on transfer deals are no longer in business," said Chris Lee, head of professional sport, Barclays Corporate, which provides banking services to a number of Premier League clubs.
"Clubs are finding themselves being offered all sorts of alternatives from third parties trying to expedite short-term credit to fund transfers, but interest rates are far bigger than with more established lenders, and the fees can be very high too."
The downturn is accompanied by a growing mood that January is the wrong time to spend money, a view endorse by Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn.
"It looks like it [the January window] was done for the right reasons a few years ago but as time has played out it's just become so difficult and so fraught and you end up gambling. And one of the things at football clubs – and it's playing itself out now down at Portsmouth – when you gamble, sometimes you don't win."
http://u.tv/Sport/Healy-in-loan-move-to-Ipswich/f80a0685-19ab-4572-b3b9-ba127089653f
Healy in loan move to Ipswich
Sunderland striker David Healy has moved to Ipswich Town on loan until the end of the season.
Monday, 01 February 2010
The 30-year-old Northern Ireland international has made just six appearances for the Black Cats this season, all of them as a substitute.
He has not started a single league game for the club since his £1.5m move from Fulham 18 months ago.
Last month, the Sunderland striker issued a 'come and get me' plea to potential buyers as he looks for a way out of the club.
Healy is now set to link up with his former manager Roy Keane at Portman Road, who are battling against relegation to English football's third tier.
It is the second time Northern Ireland's record goalscorer has signed for Keane after the former Manchester United midfielder took him to Wearside from Fulham in his time as Sunderland boss.
Healy will be joined by Sunderland forward Daryl Murphy who has also agreed to move to the Coca-Cola Championship side on loan until the end of the season.
The 26-year-old, who has nine Republic of Ireland caps, played 27 times for Sunderland last year but has also slipped down the pecking order at the Stadium of Light.
Healy's lack of club football has had an unwelcome effect on the international front, where he lost his place in the starting line-up for the November friendly against Serbia.
It was the first time he had been dropped for a home game at Windsor Park since he made his debut in February 2000.
Healy has scored 35 goals for Northern Ireland.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/swansea-city-fc/2010/02/02/swans-snub-late-loan-bid-for-midfield-ace-britton-91466-25740000/
It is a statement of intent by Swansea, who also put an immediate end to Nottingham Forest's interest in Britton's fellow midfielder Darren Pratley, who then failed to follow up their initial £1.5m enquiry.
And it was revealed that Angel Rangel – also out of contract this summer – was the subject of a late enquiry from Premier League Fulham.
But Jenkins insisted the club were ready to stand firm in order to give boss Paulo Sousa every chance of maintaining his side's current top-six standing.
http://www.thestar.co.uk/sportheadlines/Blackwell-at-the-double.6033610.jp
Blackwell at the double
Date: 02 February 2010
By James Shield
SHEFFIELD UNITED manager Kevin Blackwell has refused to rule-out the possibility of signing Nyron Nosworthy and Toni Kallio on a permanent basis at the end of the season.
The defensive duo are scheduled to spend the remainder of the campaign on loan at Bramall Lane after completing moves from Sunderland and Fulham before yesterday's transfer deadline.
Speaking ahead of this evening's Championship fixture against Watford, Blackwell said: "I'm delighted that we've been able to bring two quality players here.
"They should prove really good acquisitions and they give us a lot more options at the back.
"Nyron is a centre-half who can also slot-in at right back if required and Toni can fill in through the middle but is usually a left-back.
"Those are the two positions that I had made my top priority and now I honestly believe we've got a squad in place, if everyone stays fit, that can see us right through until the end.
"Hopefully everything will go well for them and although they are only with us temporarily in football it's impossible to predict what might happen."
Kallio, who spent a brief spell with United before Christmas, becomes a free agent in the summer and admitted recently than a new deal is unlikely to be forthcoming.
However, extracting Nosworthy from the Stadium of Light could prove more problematic given the fact that he has only just agreed fresh terms with the Premier League club.
"Nyron is with a top-flight side and he put pen to paper with them before Christmas," Blackwell, who sold Matthew Kilgallon to Sunderland last month, added.
"Him coming here had nothing to do with them taking Killa off us though. It is an entirely separate piece of business."
United, who remained sixth depsite being beaten 3-1 at West Bromwich Albion over the weekend, encounter opponents at Vicarage Road languishing in the lower reaches of the table.
But Blackwell warned: "Watford are going to be tough. They're strong at home and they've had some good results there so we have to be on our guard."
Kallio's arrival softened the blow of seeing former United youngster Kyle Naughton join Middlesbrough on loan from Tottenham Hotspur.
The full-back has failed to command a regular first-team place since completing a lucrative switch to White Hart Lane and Blackwell had made no secret of his desire to lure him back north.
"Kyle is one of us," Blackwell said. "He came through the ranks here and always will be.
"But we've got Toni who can play there for us now and I'm chuffed to bits to get him in."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7136027/Fulham-v-Portsmouth-match-preview.html
Fulham v Portsmouth: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between Fulham and Portsmouth at Craven Cottage on Wednesday Feb 2 2010, kick-off 20.00 GMT.
By John Ley
Published: 9:56AM GMT 02 Feb 2010
Wednesday, February 02
Fulham v Portsmouth
Craven Cottage
Kick-off: 20.00 GMT
Fulham could give debuts to Nicky Shorey, the left-back signed on loan from Aston Villa, and Stefano Okako, the Roma striker, as they look to end a run of five straight losses in the Premier League. But John Pantsil, Paul Konchesky, Clint Dempsey and Andrew Johnson are all missing.
They face a Portsmouth side with one point from their last four League games and five points adrift at the foot of the Premier League. Quincy Owusu-Abeyie could be involved after coming on as a substitute at Manchester City at the weekend. Asmir Begovic has gone but David James remains and the England goalkeeper should continue in goal.
Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Hughes, Smalling, Hangeland, Shorey; Davies, Murphy, Baird, Duff; Okako, Zamora.
Portsmouth (4-3-3): James; Vanden Borre, Ben-Haim, Wilson, Hreidarsson; Mullins, Basinas, O'Hara; Webber, Utaka, Boateng.
Referee: Anthony Taylor.
Matches: None.
This season: Portsmouth 0 Fulham 1.
Last season: Portsmouth 1 Fulham 1, Fulham 3 Portsmouth 1.
Stat of the game: Portsmouth have failed to beat Fulham in the last four attempts.
Betting tip: Portsmouth are not playing badly; try 1-1 at 5-1.
http://www.expressandstar.com/2010/02/02/the-rise-and-rise-of-graham-dorrans/
But even I couldn't have imagined that Dorrans would blossom into the player he has become. On Saturday he oozed a confidence that made everything look so easy, and he has arguably become the single most important part of our team.
I was one of the many sad to see our former captain Jonathan Greening leave the club for Fulham, but his departure has allowed Dorrans to emerge as the daddy in midfield. Head coach Roberto Di Matteo can also take some credit for helping to rebuild a team around him that has allowed his progress to grow at a surprising rate.
http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/default.aspx?Tab=45&Page=6&Article=1311
Clough's 'wise words' still ringing true as Peterborough send Cooper packing
By Guest
Fifteen years ago, Brian Clough made a 'tired and emotional' appearance on the ITV programme Sport in Question (it is available easily enough if you search for him on YouTube). It was tragic to see a man ravaged by his vices to such an extent that the word incoherent was probably a mite generous. However, when the discussion came to Notts County, who had just sacked their third manager of the season, Clough showed that enough of his innate wisdom remained to make a telling observation.
His solution to the chaos on the other side of Nottingham was simple. Should a chairman appoint a manager and then subsequently sack him, then the man who made the mistaken appointment should stand down as a matter of common decency. Although it is something that will remain forever hypothetical, it would be more than interesting to get Darragh MacAnthony's thoughts on the old maestro's proposal.
The Marbella-based businessman appointed Mark Cooper on November 14, 2009, following Darren Ferguson's departure a few days earlier. It would be an outright lie to say the results have been anything near what would have been hoped. One win from thirteen games, conceding an average of a goal every 43 minutes, is not the form to inspire confidence of successfully negotiating the relegation battle Posh are embroiled in. This writer does not subscribe to the view of Graham Taylor that every manager deserves a minimum of two years. In every walk of life, people come into jobs and for whatever reason, it is obvious fairly early on that it's not going to work out. Clough would have to cite his time at Leeds as one of those instances, and it's possible Mark Cooper and Peterborough were just bad footballing chemistry.
That is the rational argument, and it happens in every walk of life. But let us suggest you hired someone tomorrow and had to let them go ten weeks later with it clear they were unsuitable. Even without the massive payout that compensates failure (or mistreatment) in the football world, you would sit down and work out how and why the recruitment process went so badly astray. A look at Cooper's appointment uncovers gaping holes in the logic applied by MacAnthony and others. The ex-Tamworth boss had done superbly well with Kettering Town, taking them into the Conference, enjoying a great FA Cup run in 2008/09 (where they scared the living daylights out of Fulham) and being amongst the front-runners at the start of this season in the race to make the Football League. No doubt he was and remains a young manager with promise, but maybe a job in the higher echelons of English football came a little prematurely. And maybe Peterborough should have gone for a manager who had achieved success at a higher level instead of one for whom the job was not a step-up, but a ten-storey trek without the benefit of an elevator.
Paul Ince's traumatic period at Blackburn should surely have shown MacAnthony and Barry Fry the danger of what they were getting into. The self-styled 'guvnor' had done superbly well to keep Macclesfield Town in the Football League and won promotion with MK Dons from League Two in 2007/08. However, like Cooper, he found himself in a hopeless tailspin three tiers above any level he had ever managed at previously. Less than half a season into his tenure, he found that whatever patience existed had worn thin. Again, this doesn't mean getting rid of Ince was a bad move. Their subsequent survival under Sam Allardyce would suggest the polar opposite. But it raises the same questions as to why he was appointed in the first place. The decision represented the sort of gamble to make even the most hardened casino-banker blush.
There is a twofold damage to this 'hit and hope' approach to recruitment. One does not yet know whether Cooper's faith in his own ability has been dented after the setback of his 79-day sacking. Steve Staunton, a bright and articulate footballer tipped as a top manager of the future, got the dream job managing the Republic of Ireland despite having no managerial experience. It would be an understatement to say Ireland under-achieved under a man for whom it was "too much too soon." He now struggles desperately at Darlington, a club in turmoil, and thus one of few in the Football League who would give a shot at redemption to a man unfairly tainted by failure. Another disturbing angle in this story is the fact that it is merely the exacerbation of a trait that has been creeping into football in the last few years. Half-season managerial runs (Phil Parkinson at Hull, Bryan Gunn at Norwich) now barely raise an eyebrow. A decade ago, exaggerated comparisons would have been made with the positively trigger-happy Jesus Gil of Atletico Madrid, famous for getting rid of managers with alarming frequency. Signor Gil appears to have inspired the Briatore era at Queens Park Rangers. Their managerial situation went beyond farcical when Paul Hart became the eighth man to be waved goodbye in two years a fortnight ago.
They say the lesson of history is people never learn the lessons of history. Well, in 1967/68, Derby County finished 18th in the old Second Division. This was following a finish of 17th the previous season, during which they had installed a new manager to revive their fortunes. He would take time to overhaul the playing staff, groundsman and even the tea ladies, who he sacked for laughing at a Rams loss one Saturday. They would go on to win promotion in 1968 and the first division in 1972. They owed this success to two things. Firstly, they had given him time. More crucially, they had appointed the right man to start with. That man of course was Brian Clough. His observation may have been soaked in liquor, but it came from experience. Hopefully MacAnthony and Fry will learn this for next time.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/swansea_city/8489630.stm
Swansea reject bids for star trio
Swansea City turned down a triple transfer deadline day swoop as they rejected bids for Leon Britton, Darren Pratley and Angel Rangel.
They snubbed a move from Fulham for right-back Rangel while their Premier League rivals Wigan Athletic had a £1m bid rejected for midfielder Britton.
Nottingham Forest also failed in their attempts to sign Swans star Pratley.
"There was serious interest in Leon, Darren and Angel," revealed Swans chairman Huw Jenkins.
"But we resisted the temptation to leave them go, taking into account the high value we place on the players as individuals in the squad."
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is an admirer of Britton and wanted the 27-year-old playmaker to follow him to the Premier League and the DW Stadium.
Paulo feels it is in the club's best interests to keep everyone together until end of the season at least
Britton, who is out of contract at the end of the season, was subject of a deadline day enquiry that the Championship play-off hopefuls rejected.
Spanish defender Rangel, who is also out of contract in the summer, has long attracted top-flight interest.
But Fulham boss Roy Hodgson made a firm enquiry late on deadline day after the Cottagers signed another full-back, Nicky Shorey from Aston Villa, on loan until the end of the season.
Swansea's Championship play-off rivals Forest have been heavily linked with a £1.5m move for key midfielder Pratley during January but their enquiry was rebuffed by the fifth-placed Swans.
Jenkins is "delighted" the window passed without the Welsh club losing any of their key players while Swans boss Paulo Sousa allowed out-of-favour striker Stephen Dobbie to join Blackpool on loan until the end of the season.
"Paulo feels it is in the club's best interests to keep everyone together until end of the season at least... to help us achieve a position as high as we can," said Jenkins.
"All of the players understand our position to retain their services this season. They know how important they are to us and are fully committed and loyal to Swansea City."
Former Arsenal youngster Britton is one of Swansea's longest-serving players after joining from West Ham United in 2003 - after a brief loan spell - as a teenager.
The future of fans' favourite Britton, who roomed with Wigan boss Martinez when the pair were together at Swansea, was under intense speculation for over a month.
It was sparked after he conceded he was "surprised and disappointed" that Sousa made public details of his contract negotiations.
The Swansea boss revealed Britton, who has made more than 300 appearances for the Welsh club, would become one of the best paid players in the club's history if he signed a new deal.
Britton has also previously admitted he has been unsettled by the turmoil of his recent split with his daughter's mother who has moved back to his native London.
Martinez has already signed one-time Swans stars Jason Scotland and Jordi Gomez for Wigan and the Spaniard, who has previously stated Britton has Premier League quality, is interested in signing Britton.
Full-on Sale
Tuesday 2nd February 2010
Fulham FC News
The 'Full-on Sale' with new lines just added
The 'Full-on Sale' is now on, and with up to 60% off| selected items this is the perfect time to pick up your Official Fulham merchandise. Your purchases can be made at the official online store| , or either of the Club's retail stores found on Fulham Road and at Craven Cottage.
Recently added Nike items include the Club Zip Training Top| , available in both black and red, and in a wide range of sizes, as well as the official Club Rain Jacket| .
A great opportunity for fans
The Full-on Sale is also a great opportunity for any fan to pick up discounts on FFC souvenirs and the Club fashion range. Now available at great prices are a large selection of items including the Fulham Golf Bag| , Europa League Baseball cap| , the Heritage Contrast Sleeve T-shirt| and much, much more| .
With items in limited supply now is the time to buy all the latest Fulham FC merchandise.
Such great prices and so much variety, treat yourself today as this sale will end soon.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/Full-onSale.aspx#ixzz0eNLjatNp (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/Full-onSale.aspx#ixzz0eNLjatNp)
Squad Numbers Confirmed
Tuesday 2nd February 2010
Fulham FC News
Fulham completed the loan signings of striker Stefano Okaka and defender Nicky Shorey on Monday afternoon and the Club can confirm squad numbers for the two players ahead of Wednesday night's game against Portsmouth.
Roma striker and Italy U21 international Okaka will wear the number 9 shirt whilst former England defender Shorey will wear Fulham's nuber 7 shirt.
Be amongst the first to see Fulham's new additions when Roy Hodgson's side take on Portsmouth at Craven Cottage on Wednesday evening! Wednesday's game is absolutely vital and your support could make all the difference so get behind the team by purchasing your tickets now| !
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/SquadNumbers.aspx#ixzz0eNbvK1F2 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/SquadNumbers.aspx#ixzz0eNbvK1F2)
http://www.twtd.co.uk/news.php?storyid=15960
Keane: Fulham Will Be Tough Opponents
Tue 02nd Feb 2010 11:25
Town boss Roy Keane says he expects a very tough game when the Blues' U18s take on Fulham in their FA Youth Cup fifth round tie at Portman Road this evening (KO 7pm). Striker Connor Wickham is set to play against the Cottagers, having netted a goal in both the previous rounds.
Keane says Fulham have a very good U18 side: "It's a very, very tough game. Fulham are very, very strong in terms of their youths this year and we should know that because we played them in the league last week and lost 6-1.
"It's no good beating Arsenal on the Tuesday night [in the FA Youth Cup] and then losing your league match the following weekend. But they've paid for that, don't you worry about that."
The Blues boss is looking for supporters to get behind the side coached by Chris Kiwomya, whose weekend derby with Norwich was postponed due to the weather: "Hopefully the fans will come out in numbers, it's always great to see your young lads coming through. The FA Youth Cup has a great history and we're looking forward to that game.
"We've got some decent young lads and I've always had an interest in youth football. I'm looking forward to it."
Keane expects several senior players to be at Portman Road this evening: "I'd be surprised if a lot of the first team squad weren't at the game. You should always take an interest in what other players are doing and they mix with them every day in the canteen."
The Town manager travelled to both the 2-0 third round win at Tranmere, in which Wickham and Northern Irish U17 international midfielder Josh Carson netted the goals, and the fourth round 2-0 victory against holders Arsenal when Irish U19 international frontman Ronan Murray and Wickham were on target.
The winners of tonight's match will take on Aston Villa or Millwall at home in the quarter-finals. They meet in their fifth round match at Villa Park on Friday 12th February.
Tickets for tonight's match cost £3 for adults and £1 for children and concessions with only the Britannia Stand open.
http://www.whydelilah.co.uk/node/5710
It was mentioned that James Beattie was of interest to a number of clubs, and that Fulham made a bid for him at the death which may or may not have been hamstrung by our game in Sunderland on the transfer deadline, but why didn't we ship him out before? He's 32, looks a good half-stone overweight and despite press reports to the contrary, has been far from brilliant for Stoke, plus he's on about £40,000 a week. The money accrued from a Beattie sale and the freeing up of wages could have seen Stoke look at Victor Moses, a young talent playing every week in a hard league and with Warnock's style of football being in a similar vein to ours he could have been a good fit at Stoke, yet Pulis dismissed it out of hand. Why not buy a versatile player who is 13 years younger than Beattie for a similar fee, whilst at the same time ridding yourself of a player who you now know to be a trouble maker who has between little and no chance of resurrecting his career?
Gary O'Neill continues to fester away playing football in a league below his ability for a team that is now looking increasingly like Celtic's reserves, so why not use some of our contracted players as leverage? I'm sure that Tonge & Griffin would have been enough given that he cannot have much longer than 18 months on his contract (he signed for Boro in 2007), and suddenly we have genuine options on the right. Nicky Shorey, a very recently capped England player continues to flit around on loan when a "proper" full back with excellent free-kick ability would genuinely enhance our team far more than the continued choice between Higginbotham & Collins, which to use an age-old joke is starting to look more and more like the proverbial two bald men fighting over a comb. These are just three examples of players, one of which would have been a loan, and two others would have easily been paid for by either off-setting some of our redundant squad or selling one to pay for another. You i'm sure could have come up with others (Fletcher at Burnley for Kitson & Cort could have been another?).
http://www.football365.com/mediawatch/0,17033,8749_5912558,00.html
Will You Be Loanly...
One of the deals that went through yesterday was the loan deal of Nicky Shorey, who moved from Aston Villa to Fulham.
"But hang on," we hear those of you familiar with the rules cry. "Hasn't he already played for two clubs this season, and is therefore prevented from appearing for a third?"
Why yes, you would be right. Shorey played six times for Villa before making nine appearances on loan at Nottingham Forest, and would thusly - one would assume - not be allowed to play for Fulham.
One may also recall Javier Mascherano being allowed to play for Liverpool after moving there on an initial loan in 2007, despite having appeared for West Ham and Corinthians already. FIFA announced at the time that such deals would only be approved 'under very restrictive preconditions'.
However, Fulham are apparently 'relaxed' about the deal and hope to get around it because his move to Forest was an 'emergency' loan. Given that Forest had two fit and perfectly serviceable left-backs on their books at the time, the emergency nature of the whole deal starts to look a little shonky.
Assuming Shorey is allowed to play, any accusations that the authorities favour the bigger clubs of the land, who will basically get what they want if they stamp their feet and scream hard enough, will be difficult to deny. Especially when you consider the case of Arron Davies.
Davies was released by Forest earlier this season, having spent a not-particularly-successful spell on loan at Brighton, but was prevented from joining former club Yeovil on the grounds that he had already played for two different clubs this season.
This presumably leaves Davies kicking his heels for the remainder of the season, not allowed to earn his crust because of the apparently arbitrary manner in which the authorities decide what is and is not an emergency.
http://www.football365.com/mediawatch/0,17033,8749_5912558,00.html
Slight Difference Of Opinion
'James Beattie's £2.5million move to Fulham collapsed after he demanded a staggering £45,000 a week. The Stoke striker even had a medical before boss Roy Hodgson pulled the plug' - The Sun.
'James Beattie is stuck with Stoke City after Fulham failed to sign him for £2million - because he could not reach London to have a medical...The far-travelled forward needed a medical as he was looking for a two-and-a-half year contract and Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed demands stringent checks before parting with his cash. Stoke took too long to accept Fulham's offer, holding up the transfer in a piece of brinkmanship that cost them the sale' - The Daily Mirror.
http://www.football365.com/mediawatch/0,17033,8749_5912558,00.html
Read My Lips - Part Two"
I spent three days in Peterborough staying in a hotel and I saw six people. Some were previous international managers and ex-England internationals, foreign managers and managers with experience. But there was one who stood out and who wanted it the most, and that was Mark Cooper. He impressed me like you wouldn't believe...I think Mark Cooper will do a terrific job for our football club" - Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAnthony, November 14.
"I have seen comments about our manager and feel it is incredibly harsh to make judgements on him after five games. The gaffer is just as disappointed as everyone else with the lack of results, but he of course needs 100% support from all of us" - Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAnthony, December 15.
'Nobody has given the bloke a chance since he was appointed 10 games ago and he has had to deal with one fiasco after another. I am of course unhappy that the results have not changed but at the same time I am not ready to throw the towel in as quick as others appear to be' - Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAnthony, January 26.
'Following Mark Cooper's departure from the football club yesterday I wish him well for the future and have no doubt that he will be back in management sooner rather than later. After losing 8 times in 13 games including five defeats in January where we conceded 12 goals and only scored 1, his position became untenable and I felt it was time for a change for the good of the club' - Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAnthony, February 2.
http://goal.com/en/news/9/england/2010/02/02/1772718/beating-fulham-proves-that-aston-villa-are-a-top-four-side-emile-
Beating Fulham Proves That Aston Villa Are A Top-Four Side - Emile Heskey
Hitman compares Villa win with Liverpool and Manchester United defeats at Craven Cottage...
By Adithya Ananth
Feb 2, 2010 1:04:00 PM
Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey believes that his side have announced their top-four credentials after beating Fulham 2-0 over the weekend.
A first-half brace from Gabriel Agbonlahor was all that was needed for the Villans to rake in the points on Saturday and revive their push to achieve Champions League football next season, having gone four games without a victory in the league.
Referring to Liverpool and Manchester United dropping points at Craven Cottage, Heskey said in The Mirror: "You see teams - top-four teams - go there and get outplayed but we really got at them and I think we deserved the points.
"Now we've got to try and keep our foot on the pedal.
"We always come bouncing back. We will never give up.
"Our confidence was high anyway because of the performances we had been putting in, but you've got to get the goals to go with that and against Fulham we did.
"They are a good side and they pass it around well.
"But we are all buzzing. We have some really great lads and we get on really well together. It's a nice atmosphere."
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/02022010/58/spl-team-news-kamara-start.html
SPL - Team news: Kamara may start
PA Sport - Tue, 02 Feb 13:20:00 2010
Kilmarnock v Celtic (7.30pm)
Kilmarnock have no fresh injury concerns for Tuesday night's rearranged Premier League game against Celtic.
Killie boss Jimmy Calderwood remains without Mark Burchill (hamstring), Frazer Wright (ankle), Ryan O'Leary (knee) and Allan Russell (thigh).
Calderwood may also decide to freshen up his side for what will be their sixth game in 18 days, which comes about after December's original fixture was claimed by the big freeze.
Kamara could make his Celtic debut after signing on transfer deadline day.
The Senegal striker trained with the squad on Monday, but Dutch left-back Edson Braafheid will not feature - he returned to Germany to collect his family and belongings after signing a similar deal from Bayern Munich.
Paddy McCourt is out with a minor knee injury but Celtic are otherwise expected to have an unchanged squad.
http://www.worldfootballinsider.com/Story.aspx?id=32963
Alexey Smertin Joins Russia World Cup Bid
February 2, 2010
Alexey Smertin, the former captain of the Russian national team, is named as sports director of the Russia bid seeking to stage either the 2018 or 2022 World Cup.
Smertin, who was capped 55 times for Russia, will be responsible for working on technical and sporting matters, including offering input on the match calendar, overall team accommodations. He was already a bid ambassador.
Bid CEO Alexey Sorokin said: "As a bid ambassador and member of our delegation who attended both Soccerex and the [2010] finals draw last year in South Africa, Alexey Smertin has shown himself to be a strong representative and advocate for Russian football.
"He will strengthen our bid with his unrivalled experience as former elite player turned administrator. We believe that this new position will expand the opportunities for him to apply his unique expertise to the bid."
Smertin will be one of the faces of the Russia bid in the build-up to the FIFA decision on the hosts of the 2018 and 2022 tournaments in December.
He is the latest addition Smertin in his Fulham playing daysto the bid team, which was strengthened recently by former FIFA director of communications, Markus Siegler, and new international adviser Viacheslav Koloskov.
Smertin had a distinguished career as a defender and midfield player with a number of clubs in Russia and abroad, including Lokomotiv Moscow, Girondins de Bordeaux, and spells at Chelsea and Fulham. He was named player of the year in Russia in 1999. Smertin won the Premier League and the League Cup with Chelsea in 2005.
"Playing for Russia in the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Korea and Japan was one of the highlights of my career," said Smertin, who also played for Russia at the 2004 European Championships in Portugal.
"The significance of this [World Cup] competition and what it means to football fans all over the world is simply overwhelming.
"I am very proud to have been asked to represent my country now on an altogether different playing field and very much look forward to the coming months with the bid committee. I will certainly strive for excellence in my efforts to bring the ultimate football event to my home country, Russia", he added.
Outside football, Smertin has another career as politician and founder of social development projects. He is currently the deputy of the Altay region Legislative Assembly in Russia, and is also actively engaged in the development of children's sports in that region and in Barnaul, his native city. He has also founded a football sports school for children.
http://hammyend.com/?p=5099
Shakhtar warming up for Fulham
by Dan on February 2, 2010
Shakhtar Donetsk are preparing for their Europa League showdown with Fulham with some warm weather training in Marbella. Perhaps they've misunderstood just quite how cold the Cottage will be in February.
Team News
Tuesday 2nd February 2010
Fulham FC News
On Tuesday afternoon Roy Hodgson revealed that Fulham will be without several First Team players when they clash with Portsmouth at the Cottage on Wednesday evening.
The Whites are currently enduring a torrid period on the injury front as Hodgson welcomes loan signings Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka into his squad to face Avram Grant's side.
"The injury situation is very bad I'm afraid," said Hodgson. "It's as bad as I've ever experienced in football. We have six of our First Team players out injured and one who hasn't yet returned from the African Cup of Nations.
"To lose seven players from the Team that finished seventh last year is always going to take a lot of dealing with but fortunately we have two players who have come in on loan in Nicky Shorey and Stefano Okaka which is very useful for me to plug gaps.
"I'm disappointed that Simon Davies, who I was hoping would recover for the game on Wednesday, and Zoltan Gera, who injured himself in training on Tuesday morning, will not be available. To lose a further two in our current situation it seems that the real good fortune we had in terms of injuries last season we're repaying for this season."
The loan deals to bring in Okaka and Shorey for the second half of the season were announced on Monday afternoon and Hodgson is hoping both players will make an impact at the Cottage, starting with Wednesday night's clash against Portsmouth.
"Both of them will play tomorrow," revealed Hodgson. "He's [Okaka] a great talent and has potential because he's an Italian U21 international. He hasn't played that many games for the Roma team but he has played some important matches for them and made a very important contribution as a substitute.
"He's a strong player and has an eye for goal. He's a determined type of goalscorer and we hope in our current situation, with Andy Johnson out for a further considerable time, he will help us up front to score some goals.
"We've been struggling at left back since Paul Konchesky got injured because we've not had that player that can cover on the left hand side. We've not had a natural left footer and we've tried to play right backs there and they've struggled.
"Toni Kallio has been injured for a long while and has now been allowed to leave for Shefffield United. The reason I let Toni leave is because we were able to bring in Nicky Shorey who is a very similar player to Paul Konchesky who I am hoping will do a similar great job to the one Paul has done."
Be amongst the first to see Fulham's new additions when Roy Hodgson's side take on Portsmouth at Craven Cottage on Wednesday evening! Wednesday's game is absolutely vital and your support could make all the difference so get behind the team by purchasing your tickets now| !
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/PompeyTeamNews.aspx#ixzz0eONouEbH (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/February/PompeyTeamNews.aspx#ixzz0eONouEbH)
http://www.bwfc.co.uk/page/General/0,,1004~1953053,00.html
Davo Looking For Home Advantage
Posted on: Tue 02 Feb 2010
Kevin Davies believes that Wanderers will use this week to their advantage ahead of Saturday's game with Fulham.
A demanding fixture schedule in January saw Bolton play five matches in 14 days, and with no midweek match to contend with, the skipper says the squad will be making sure that the full week is well utilised.
Bolton will be looking to make it three consecutive victories on home soil when the Cottagers visit and Davies also explained that there is a real motivation to kick-on and push up the Premier League table.
Davies said: "It has been a tough month with us playing twice a week and obviously we had a few matches postponed before then, which we had prepared and planned for.
"Fulham have a game on Wednesday as well so we will look to use that to our advantage. It's been well documented that lost five league matches in succession and that they have been suffering with injuries, but they must not be underestimated because there will be a determination from them to end their recent run of results.
"But the win against Burnley in our last home match was the big result because it got us out of the bottom three.
"We had been in there over Christmas and it was vital that we got out sooner rather than later, and with the home fixtures coming up, we all believe that we can push-on up the table and open up a gap from the relegation zone."
http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/uncategorised/fulham-boss-misses-a-beatt?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TransferTavern+%28The+Transfer+Tavern+Home+Page%29
Fulham boss misses a Beatt
Date: 2nd February 2010 at 12:53 pm
Author: Mark Turner
Roy Hodgson failed in a last ditch attempt to sign Stoke City striker James Beattie for Fulham last night, with The Sun and The Daily Mirror giving differing interpretations of why the deal fell through. Beattie is surplus to requirements at the Britannia Stadium following a bust-up between Beattie and Stoke manager Tony Pulis at the Emirates Stadium in early December. The pair allegedly had to be pulled apart by backroom staff, and Beattie has started just 2 of the subsequent 9 matches Stoke have played since.
Last night it emerged that Hodgson was making a late move for Beattie, hoping to ease Fulham away from a relegation scrap by swelling his attacking options. Clint Dempsey is out for 6 weeks with knee ligament damage, whilst Andrew Johnson has struggled for fitness for much of the season, also suffering with a knee complaint . With Diomansy Kamara leaving for Celtic on loan until the end of the season, Hodgson finally secured the 6-month loan of Italian under-21 striker Stefano Okaka from AS Roma, but will still be disappointed with his failed attempt for Beattie. The Sun is reporting Beattie's wage demands of £45, 000 a week were responsible for the collapse of the deal. However, The Daily Mirror suggests that a deal worth an estimated £2 million broke down because Beattie could not get to Fulham for a medical in time. Beattie was with the Stoke squad for their trip to Sunderland last night, and as his club stalled following the offer from Fulham, Beattie was left warming the bench again, watching his teammates earn a 0-0 draw with the Wearsiders. Beattie was looking for a 2-and-a-half year deal, and so Mohamed Al Fayed, The Daily Mirror claims, was allegedly insistent on a stringent medical before releasing the purse strings.
Beattie joined Stoke last January from Sheffield United in a deal worth £3.5 million. Beattie scored 7 goals in 16 appearances for The Potters, and was instrumental in helping them avoid relegation to the Championship. However, Beattie has managed just 3 goals in his 18 Premier League appearances this term.
http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/02/02/fulham-v-portsmouth-preview-two-teams-out-to-end-recent-slumps/
Fulham v Portsmouth Preview: Two Teams Out to End Recent Slumps
02/2/2010 9:35 AM GMT By Ben Hunt
PREMIER LEAGUE: CRAVEN COTTAGE, WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2010. KICK-OFF: 2000 GMT
FULHAM:
A visit from Portsmouth could be just what Fulham need to get over their recent slump in form.
Roy Hodgson's side are on a dreadful run in the Premier League as FanHouse discussed. Yet those unwelcome successive defeats against Chelsea, Stoke, Blackburn, Spurs and Aston Villa could all be forgotten with a morale-boosting victory over Pompey.
Hodgson's side once revelled in their home form this season and will look to capitalise on that once more. The Fulham manager told a news conference: "We have to stop the rot by winning but we know it will not be easy. Portsmouth are a better team than their league position shows.
"We need to get that win and although we have not been playing badly, we have been punished by our mistakes and not scored goals. The morale and spirit is good in the squad but confidence always diminishes with defeats. The squad know words do not change things, actions do."
Strategy: Hodgson is expected to draft in at least two of the new faces he signed on transfer deadline day. On-loan Aston Villa defender Nicky Shorey will be a valuable addition at left back to replace the injured Paul Konchesky. Roma striker Stefano Okaka is also expected to be given his debut but may start on the substitutes' bench.
Injury Update: The club will continue to monitor Andrew Johnson's knee problem. The striker's much-anticipated return has been delayed by another setback. Simon Davies is also a concern after he limped off against Aston Villa. Konchesky, Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil are long-term injuries. Zoltan Gera has joined the injury list after taking a knock in training.
PORTSMOUTH:
Avram Grant's preparations for this match have once again been overshadowed by the club's failure to pay its players. It is now the fourth time this has happened and, while the players accepted the problem at first, their patience is running out.
It is exactly the situation that Grant wanted to avoid at this crucial stage of the season. His task is hard enough without having to raise his players' motivation from the rock bottom level it currently occupies.
The club have sold Younes Kaboul and Asmir Begovic in the transfer window and suggest the money will be used to pay the wages, but veteran defender Hermann Hreidarsson wants the club to give a precise report on their their financial.
"They should come clean and let us know exactly what is going on," Hreidarsson said in the Daily Express. "This is the fourth time it has happened this season. It seems to be a never-ending story at the moment. The players and staff are working hard for this club, but we don't know what is happening from the people who are running it. It is just amazing that we have not been paid and they have not been in touch with us.
"I am sure the players will be all right, but it is the staff not being paid that is a big concern. They maybe have mortgages to pay, but do not have their wages."
Strategy: The loss of Kaboul and Begovic will be a blow to Portsmouth, who are already short of players. David James will definitely be in goal and Tal Ben-Haim will come in at centre back. Former Arsenal forward Quincy Owusu-Abeyie could make his first start for the club after coming off the bench against Manchester City.
Injury Update: Papa Bouba Diop and Michael Brown are both rated as doubtful to face their former club. Diop has a hamstring strain and Brown is struggling with a back problem.
http://www.bettingzone.co.uk/football/betting/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=betting/10/02/02/manual_144111.html
COTTAGERS TO GO IN FOR THE KILL
By Chris Hammer
BETTING BOX
FIXED ODDS
1pt Fulham to be winning half-time/full-time at 9/5 (Blue Square). Fulham will be eager to go in for the kill against a wounded animal.
Fulham head into Wednesday night's clash with Portsmouth on the back of five straight Premier League defeats which has seen them slide down the table - but unless this slump continues until the end of the season, it's unlikely they'll end up in a relegation scrap.
The Cottagers enjoyed a superb first half to the campaign as Roy Hodgson looked to build on their success of qualifying for Europe, so they'll surely see this home game against crisis club Pompey as the ideal opportunity to get back to winning ways.
Hodgson was disappointed with the manner in which they conceded two late first-half goals to Gabriel Agbonlahor during their 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa at Craven Cottage on Saturday but also put down his side's recent struggles to a worrying injury list that includes Andy Johnson, Clint Dempsey, John Pantsil and Paul Konchesky.
Simon Davies also had to limp off against Villa with an ankle injury but the squad did receive a lift on transfer deadline day when striker Stefano Okaka completed his loan move from Roma.
The 20-year-old signed off in style for the Giallorossi with a spectacular late winner in Sunday's 2-1 defeat of Siena but having made only seven substitute appearances in Serie A this term, it made sense for Claudio Ranieri allow him to gain potential first-team experience elsewhere.
Fulham also sealed a loan move for left-back Nicky Shorey as cover for Konchesky so Hodgson shouldn't be short of options for the visit of the Premier League's rock-bottom side.
Portsmouth's plight on and off the field has been well documented throughout this torrid season and even the most optimistic of their supporters will struggle to believe they can climb to safety.
Asmir Begovic, Younes Kaboul, David Nugent and Mike Williamson were the major players to depart Fratton Park during the transfer window although they were boosted by the loan return of Jamie O'Hara to the club.
With Avram Grant's men currently six points adrift of the cluster of teams above the relegation zone, hope is fading fast and they desperately need to pick up their first top-flight victory since the shock 2-0 triumph over Liverpool back on December 19.
Since then only an FA Cup run to the fifth round has sought to raise the spirits while at the weekend they suffered a sound 2-0 Premier League defeat at Manchester City despite the hosts being well below their best.
Fulham are unsurprisingly odds-on to pick up all three points on Wednesday night so we reckon better value would be to back the hosts to be winning at half-time and full-time, which is available at 9/5 with Blue Square.
Pompey have conceded first-half goals in eight of their last 10 games in all competitions while we can expect a hungry Fulham to come out all guns blazing in search of an early kill against a wounded animal.
Verdict: Fulham 2 Portsmouth 0
Gera joins Fulham injury list
02/02/2010 - 14:22:22
Zoltan Gera is the latest Fulham player to suffer an injury ahead of the Premier League clash with Portsmouth.
Gera has joined a long list of players in the treatment room after suffering a knock to his knee in training.
Andy Johnson is still struggling with his knee injury while Paul Konchesky (foot), Simon Davies (ankle), Clint Dempsey and John Pantsil (both knee ligaments) are all out.
Loan signings Nicky Shorey and Roma striker Stefano Okaka are both poised for their Fulham debuts.
Provisional squad: Schwarzer, Hangeland, Shorey, Baird, Hughes, Stoor, Kelly, Duff, Murphy, Nevland, Zuberbuhler, Greening, Riise, Dikgacoi, Smalling, Elm, Zamora, Okaka.
Read more: http://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/gera-joins-fulham-injury-list-444560.html#ixzz0eONkRD3V (http://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/gera-joins-fulham-injury-list-444560.html#ixzz0eONkRD3V)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_conf/8493833.stm
Marine sign former Everton midfielder Sean Doherty
Doherty played for England at Under-17 and Under-19 levels
Unibiond Premier side Marine AFC have signed ex-Everton and Fulham midfielder Sean Doherty from Witton Albion.
Mariners manager Kevin Lynch says the 23-year-old can use his time at the club as a stepping stone to return to top level football.
"Sean can certainly get back to where he once was and we just want to give him the platform to do that," Lynch told BBC Radio Merseyside.
"He has played at some fantastic clubs and its a pleasure to have him here."
Doherty started his career in Everton's youth academy before moving to Fulham in July 2001 for an undisclosed fee.
Since leaving the Cottagers in 2005, he has played for Dutch side ADO Den Haag, Port Vale, Accrington Stanley, Belgian club Royal Antwerp and League of Ireland Premier Division side Sligo Rovers, before moving to Witton Albion in July 2009.
"Certainly Sean coming back to Marine will put him right in the shop window," continued Lynch.
"We're hoping while he is in the shop window he can produce the goods for Marine Football Club. This is a good stepping stone and I hope we can rise up together."
http://hammyend.com/?p=5103
The Forest view on Nicky Shorey
by Dan on February 2, 2010
Just had this through from a Forest fan on Nicky Shorey:
Livid that you've nicked him from us. He's a class act and should do really well at Fulham. The only reason he wasn't in the Villa team is because of Stephen Warnock – he's been capped twice by England and played in the Prem with Reading.
He is a composed player and very clever. His great footballing brain meant he was a playmaker for us from left back! He'll definitely do well for you.
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/danny-murphy/article/3182/
Shocked to see Smalling go
Tue Feb 02 03:31PM
Chris Smalling's transfer to Manchester United was a bit of a shock at the club, given the limited exposure he has had to Premier League football.
There is no denying he is an extremely gifted footballer who has pace to burn, and is extremely strong in defence. His talent was recognised early by both Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger and his move gives him the opportunity to cut his teeth at one of the finest clubs in the country in Manchester United.
It will be interesting to see how much game time he is given competing alongside some of Europe's finest defenders in Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, but Chris has a fantastic opportunity that I am sure he will relish. From Fulham's perspective, it is great to be able to keep him until the end of the season prior to his departure to Old Trafford.
I am very happy with Fulham's transfer window activity and think we have managed to reinforce the squad in a number of areas that we were struggling with injury.
Nicky Shorey is an excellent addition at left-back from Aston Villa, with good experience at this level. Christopher Buchtmann is a young German player signed from Liverpool that I haven't yet had the opportunity to meet, but look forward to doing so shortly.
Finally, Stefano Okaka, the AS Roma and Italy U21 striker has signed on loan until the end of the season. He looks very strong and quick in training, and will hopefully be able to form a good partnership with Bobby Zamora given the injuries we have at present up front.
January has been a bad month for us in the context of our season so far, but we have addressed this period as a minor blip that all clubs go through in a season. The game against Portsmouth gives us an opportunity to get things back on track, and start getting some points on the board again.
In terms of fixtures, we have had a difficult run with defeats coming to Chelsea at the end of December, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa, but now is the time we have to pull together and build on our form prior to the New Year.
We have a good number of home fixtures coming up and so we must look to build on our excellent home record. We can't be complacent against the likes of Portsmouth, Burnley and Bolton, which we have identified as winnable games if we put in the performances we know we are capable of.
Avram Grant blasts Portsmouth broken promises as Premier League holds back £2m from Kaboul and Begovic sales
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 5:52 PM on 02nd February 2010
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Avram Grant has hit out at Portsmouth's broken promises amid further financial misery for the stricken south coast club.
The Israeli had hoped to strengthen in the transfer window, but found his first-team squad weakened on deadline day as Younes Kaboul and Asmir Begovic were sold in an attempt to make a dent in debts.
Now it has emerged that the Premier League will hold on to more than £2million from the sales to cover money owed to other clubs.
Financial pressure is rising, with the playing staff still waiting for their January wages and news that a deadline had been missed to pay former owner Sacha Gaydamak £9m.
Former Chelsea boss Grant took over from Paul Hart in November and was led to believe he be in a position to add four new players to his side, who are rock bottom of the Barclays Premier League.
However, the only January arrival was former Arsenal forward Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, who arrived on loan from Spartak Moscow.
The decisions to sell Kaboul and Begovic without being consulted led Grant and chief executive Peter Storrie to consider their positions.
But with Pompey facing a trip to Fulham on Wednesday, Grant insisted: 'I'm not a quitter and I'm not afraid of problems. For me a problem is a big challenge and I came here with a big challenge.
'But I'm very, very disappointed with the situation off the pitch and I'm very disappointed that people cannot do what they promised me.'
'When I came to the team, I knew the situation was not good with the football side, but they promised me everything was good with the financial side and that we would bring four players more.
'We took points and the team played good football - not worse than the teams in 10th or even eighth place.
'We showed a lot of character and were thinking about the next step - to stay in the league.
'We needed to bring in players so that the squad could be good, especially as we had a lot of injuries in the team.
'Instead of bringing in two players, we sold two players. I'm very disappointed.'
'I'm trying not to think about myself now, especially when we have a game on Wednesday. I'm trying to think about the club because I don't think that I'm the main issue.
'The main issue is Portsmouth Football Club and the fans. I'm trying to think what is best for them.
'Of course, I don't feel we did the best for them off the pitch. But on the pitch, we are always trying to do the best and I'm only thinking about the game.'
Chelsea and Watford will both receive cash owed from when Pompey signed Glen Johnson and Tommy Smith respectively.
Once the players' wages have been covered, the £4m remainder from the £8m Portsmouth earned from selling Kaboul and Begovic could be an important lifeline.
The club will use a chunk of the cash to try to persuade HM Revenue and Customs to reschedule the payments on the £7.5m owed in VAT.
However, another creditor has also joined in with HMRC's winding-up petition to the High Court on Wednesday week.
Grosvenor Basingstoke Properties are claiming they are owed money by Portsmouth though that is being disputed by the club.
Their total deb to Gaydamak stands at £28m. It is unlikely that he will take any action to push the club towards administration because that would not be in his best interests in terms of reclaiming his debt.
Portsmouth say they expect to pay the players' wages for January 'in the next day or two'.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1248023/Avram-Grant-blasts-Portsmouth-broken-promises-Premier-League-holds-2m-Kaboul-Begovic-sales.html#ixzz0ePLYcpEu (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1248023/Avram-Grant-blasts-Portsmouth-broken-promises-Premier-League-holds-2m-Kaboul-Begovic-sales.html#ixzz0ePLYcpEu)
Quote from: White Noise on February 02, 2010, 07:02:30 PM
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/danny-murphy/article/3182/
Shocked to see Smalling go
Tue Feb 02 03:31PM
In terms of fixtures, we have had a difficult run with defeats coming to the dark side at the end of December, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa, but now is the time we have to pull together and build on our form prior to the New Year.
Please tell me no one has edited this and Murph really did call them 'the dark side'
