http://www.richmondandtwickenhamtimes.co.uk/sport/8309474.Sutton_chairman_hails_Southampton_over_Lane_visit/ (http://www.richmondandtwickenhamtimes.co.uk/sport/8309474.Sutton_chairman_hails_Southampton_over_Lane_visit/)
Sutton chairman hails Southampton over Lane visit
Sutton United chairman Bruce Elliott has heaped praise on Southampton for filling the void left by Premier League Fulham last month.
The Cottagers failed to agree a date to visit Gander Green Lane this summer under the terms of former striker Stefan Payne's transfer deal.
Saints boss Alan Pardew brought a full-strength side to south London last weekend, but his side ended the trip being criticised for missing the post-match President's Trophy presentation.
But Elliott insists an administrative error his end in the wake of the 1-1 draw - if anything - was to blame.
"They did us a massive favour. They fielded their strongest side of pre-season for this game," he said.
"We thought they would win comfortably and when the game ended in a draw it caught us all by surprise. They were hastily invited to share the trophy.
"That wasn't properly communicated to Southampton, so if anyone was to blame it was Sutton United."
http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/837033-fulham-aim-to-see-off-arsenal-to-keep-mark-schwarzer-and-paul-konchesky (http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/837033-fulham-aim-to-see-off-arsenal-to-keep-mark-schwarzer-and-paul-konchesky)
Fulham aim to see off Arsenal to keep Mark Schwarzer and Paul Konchesky
New Fulham boss Mark Hughes admits his top priority is to hold on to key players like Mark Schwarzer and Paul Konchesky.
The Cottagers' goalkeeper has been linked with a move to Arsenal but Hughes hopes to persuade the Australia star and left-back Konchesky – who has been a target for Birmingham – to stay. 'It's not my intention to allow the better players at Fulham Football Club to leave,' the Welshman said.
But Hughes did admit Fulham are unlikely to be able to afford Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy, although he is keen to bring in at least one new striker.
Hughes added: 'I think it's fair to say that we need more attacking options.'
http://justarsenal.com/hleb-and-flamini-to-return-to-premier-league/4815 (http://justarsenal.com/hleb-and-flamini-to-return-to-premier-league/4815)
Hleb and Flamini to return to Premier League?
Just two years after both Aleksandr Hleb and Mathieu Flamini left Arsenal, it looks like both of them will be returning to England with their tails between their legs.
Hleb especially should be embarassed as he forced Wenger to let him leave, whilst complaining about "chaotic English life (and the weather!), while Flamini refused to sign a new contract and took his "dream" move to AC MIlan.
Hleb only made eight appearances at the Camp Nou and even flopped when on loan at Stuttgart last season, but now it seems Fulham are expected to land him for a measly £3m. Oh how the mighty have fallen....
Flamini has done a bit better at Milan, and although he is not a certain starter in the team, he has performed well when given the chance. He is now available at a much more respectable £12m, according to Caughtoffside, and it looks like Liverpool want him to replace the departing Javier Mascherano.
Having started just 12 games for Milan last season, it is highly possible that he would move to Anfield if he is promised regular first team football.
It would be great to see if the two ex-Gunners could recapture their Arsenal form back in the Premiership, but I wonder what sort of reaction they would get when they played Arsenal?
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/wrexham-fc/2010/08/04/pre-season-friendly-airbus-uk-broughton-2-wrexham-fc-2-55578-26991666/ (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/wrexham-fc/2010/08/04/pre-season-friendly-airbus-uk-broughton-2-wrexham-fc-2-55578-26991666/)
Pre-season friendly: Airbus UK Broughton 2 Wrexham FC 2
Aug 4 2010 by Mark Currie, Daily Post
Harrison kept the youngster on the bench at the start, instead preferring to give veteran striker Andy Moran a run-out against the Dragons, who had former Fulham youngster and latest Racecourse trialist Michael Uwezu among their substitutes.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/swansea_city/8798896.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/swansea_city/8798896.stm)
Darren Pratley close to signing new Swansea City deal
Darren Pratley is an important figure in Swansea's midfield
Swansea City midfielder Darren Pratley is close to signing a new contract with the club, new manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed.
It is understood the 25-year-old will put pen to paper on a three-year deal, ending speculation over his future.
"It was my number one objective to make sure one of the top midfield players in the Championship stays here," Rodgers told BBC Sport Wales.
"We are hoping that will be concluded very, very soon."
Pratley, whose current contract expires at the end of the forthcoming season, has been heavily linked with a move to Championship rivals Nottingham Forest.
In January, Forest had a £1.5m bid rejected and were reportedly set to make another move last month after they lost James Perch to newly promoted Premier League side Newcastle United.
The Swans have already seen another key midfielder leave this summer when Leon Britton ended his seven-year stay in south Wales to join Sheffield United on a free transfer.
But the club vowed to keep hold of London-born Pratley who was Swansea's top scorer last season with seven goals and has made 158 league and cup appearances since arriving from Fulham for £100,000 in June 2006.
"I can assure supporters that nobody will leave this club unless the deal is right for us and every other option has been exhausted," chairman Huw Jenkins said last month.
"I had a private conversation with Nottingham Forest a few weeks ago which, as we agreed, will stay private.
"I assume that today's story is an attempt by agents to put pressure on us. It's certainly not a new story, so I'm very disappointed.
"But I can state quite categorically that we will not be pressurised or bullied by anyone.
"We will deal with things the right way for our football club. I can assure supporters that nobody will leave this club unless the deal is right for us and every other option has been exhausted.''
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5glLF3c5mGLxJpjIFO9SD0HqSJwPQ (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5glLF3c5mGLxJpjIFO9SD0HqSJwPQ)
Hughes unconcerned by deadline
Mark Hughes is confident he will have enough time before the transfer window closes to bring in the players he wants to Fulham.
While nearly all his Barclays Premier League rivals have had the whole summer to reinforce their squads for the coming season, Hughes will have less than two weeks to assess where he needs to strengthen before the Barclays Premier League kicks off, and less than two weeks after that before the window slams shut.
"Ideally, we would've liked to have been in place before the pre-season schedule was undertaken," said Hughes, who plans to establish Fulham as a permanent fixture in the Barclays Premier League top 10.
"But that wasn't possible. We've got two weeks before the start of the season and we've still got another two weeks after that of the window to negotiate as well, so there's still plenty of time."
Hughes' priority is signing a striker after none of Fulham's players managed double figures in terms of goals last season.
But he has all but ruled out raiding City for Craig Bellamy - and possibly Roque Santa Cruz - admitting the former in particular would be out of his new club's price range. Bellamy would need to be convinced to take a huge pay cut to move to Fulham.
Hughes revealed on Tuesday he himself needed to be talked into taking charge at Craven Cottage, despite the club enjoying the two most successful seasons in their history under his predecessor Roy Hodgson.
"The last two years, I thought maybe they'd been punching above their weight and maybe that's a consequence of the good work that had gone on beforehand," Hughes said.
"The Premier League is a very expensive league and you do need resources; you need funds to keep energising the team to enable it to continue.
"If you don't add quality to a club and a group of players then you will stand still and people will overtake you. Maybe that was the reassurance that I needed when I had the discussions with Alistair (Mackintosh, chief executive)."
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5gAch4NK48SNfIkoBIF9TFT1D16KA (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5gAch4NK48SNfIkoBIF9TFT1D16KA)
Hughes defends City spending
New Fulham boss Mark Hughes has defended his spending record at Manchester City, insisting he had no say over the transfer fees paid for players.
Mega-rich City splashed out more than £200million during Hughes' 18 months as manager before he was sacked in December. But the 46-year-old insists he had no direct input into the figures and revealed what many suspect about the inner-workings at Eastlands when it comes to buying players.
"Actually, the amounts paid weren't really directly influenced by me, I would suggest," said Hughes.
"On some occasions at City, in fairness, players were presented to me which I didn't really have a direct input in.
"But you get a phone call and somebody says, 'would you like Robinho?'
"As a manager you say, 'well, yeah - I would'.
"But whether or not the situation like that was correct in terms of timing and the development of the club at that stage, that's open to debate."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7924823/Fulham-owner-Mohamed-Fayed-says-Roy-Hodgson-let-club-down-by-joining-Liverpool.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7924823/Fulham-owner-Mohamed-Fayed-says-Roy-Hodgson-let-club-down-by-joining-Liverpool.html)
Fulham owner Mohamed Fayed says Roy Hodgson let club down by joining Liverpool
Roy Hodgson was accused on Tuesday night of letting Fulham down after leaving to become manager of Liverpool.
Mohamed Fayed, Fulham's multi-millionaire owner and chairman, gave Hodgson his break back in English football when he appointed him as successor to Lawrie Sanchez.
But on Tuesday he voiced disappointment at the fact that the manager, who was on a 12-month rolling contract, accepted the chance to manage Liverpool.
Hodgson turned Fulham from a side that were just one game from relegation into a team that registered their best finish yet in the Premier League when they came seventh in the 2008-09 campaign.
Then last season he led them on a remarkable run to the final of the Europa League, where they lost to Atlético Madrid.
Fayed chose former Wales, Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City manager Mark Hughes to replace Hodgson.
Hughes was unveiled to the media on Tuesday and just 10 minutes and 23 seconds into the press conference at Craven Cottage, Fayed made an unscheduled appearance, at first watching from the sidelines, before joining his new manager at the top table.
Fayed was quick to make his feelings known about Hodgson's departure when he said: "This other guy let us down and just walked away. But we have a nice guy now. Don't mention Roy Hodgson any more.
"He [Hughes] is the man in charge. He's much better than the previous one. I am sure he's going to do a great job. He knows what he's doing. Fulham's a wonderful club."
And then Fayed delved into his pocket and handed Hughes a pristine £50 note, adding: "There are no complications, no bureaucracy here. I am sure he will deliver. I've given him £50 to buy a new striker."
Going back to Hodgson, Fayed added: "This guy, after we put him where he is now, he took advantage. But I'm sure he's [Hughes] going to win us the championship."
Asked to expand on the accusation that Hodgson took advantage, Fayed added: "We gave him all the support, we believed in him and he just let us down. It's no problem because Mark is much better.
"He has a great team and we had some fantastic results, but this guy [Hodgson] after we put him where he is now, took advantage."
While Fayed's comments may have been made amid the glare of the television cameras and assembled media, his sentiments will disappoint Hodgson, who believes he did an exceptional job and left in the correct manner.
Liverpool also paid Fulham £2 million in compensation.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1300163/What-pages-say-West-Ham-players-hurl-abuse-Robert-Green-Carlo-Ancelotti-slams-dim-Joe-Cole-Fulham-boot-Manchester-City.html?ito=feeds-newsxml (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1300163/What-pages-say-West-Ham-players-hurl-abuse-Robert-Green-Carlo-Ancelotti-slams-dim-Joe-Cole-Fulham-boot-Manchester-City.html?ito=feeds-newsxml)
What the back pages say: West Ham players hurl abuse at Robert Green, Carlo Ancelotti slams 'dim' Joe Cole, Fulham put the boot into Manchester City
DAILY MAIL
West Ham's players and coaching staff have been hurling abuse at Robert Green in a bid to prepare him for the World Cup backlash expected from crowds this season.
EXCLUSIVE: Green told he's rubbish - by his own players!
Also: Fernando Torres finally ended doubts over his future yesterday by committing himself to Liverpool and describing them as 'the best club in the country'.
I'm staying: Torres ends the speculation over his Liverpool future
You cost us the World Cup: Robert Green has been prepared for the fans' taunts by being abused by his own team-mates
DAILY STAR
Fernando Torres last night insisted new Kop boss Roy Hodgson was the reason why he decided to stay at the 'best club in the country'.
Also: Carlo Ancelotti last night took a parting shot at Joe Cole, claiming: You weren't intelligent enough for me.
Cole didn't obey orders reveals Chelsea boss Ancelotti
THE INDEPENDENT
Mark Hughes began his career at Fulham yesterday with a remarkable swipe at his former employers at Manchester City, claiming he would have led the club to the Champions League last season had he not been sacked in December.
Hughes can't resist putting the boot in on City
Also: Fernando Torres has ended the speculation over his future by committing to another season at Liverpool, citing Roy Hodgson's personal touch and a determination to deliver a trophy as his reasons for staying.
DAILY TELEGRAPH
Fernando Torres yesterday brought months of speculation to a close by committing his immediate future to Liverpool, as the prospect of an end to three years of financial plight under owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks drew closer.
Also: Martin Broughton, the Liverpool chairman, and at least one potential bidder for the club have alerted the Premier League to a possible change of ownership at Anfield.
DAILY MIRROR
Mohamed Al Fayed last night launched a blistering attack on Roy Hodgson for walking out on Fulham to join Liverpool.
Al Fayed lays into old boss Roy Hodgson
Also: Fernando Torres has delivered the news every Liverpool fan prayed for by insisting: 'I'm staying to win the title'.
DAILY EXPRESS
Fernando Torres ended the uncertainty over his future when he committed himself to Liverpool and vowed to spearhead their quest for silverware.
Also: Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed yesterday unleashed a fearsome attack on former manager Roy Hodgson accusing him of letting down the fans and the club.
THE SUN
Fernando Torres last night said the words Liverpool fans had been longing to hear: I'm staying.
Also: Joe Cole was dumped by Chelsea because he would not follow Carlo Ancelotti's orders.
THE TIMES
A Chinese-led takeover of Liverpool gained momentum last night after Fernando Torres committed his immediate future to the club.
Also: Warwickshire have blamed the huge volume of international cricket for poor ticket sales for the second npower Test against Pakistan on Friday.
THE GUARDIAN
Liverpool's preparations for the new season were given a huge boost yesterday when Fernando Torres announced that he had decided to stay at the club, rejecting the possibility of a £70million move to Chelsea or Manchester City.
Also: Andrew Flintoff has suffered another major blow in the battle to prolong his career, conceding he will not be able to play for Lancashire this season because his knee is not yet ready for the strain.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7925437/Premier-League-backs-Sir-Dave-Richards-over-Peter-Crouch-deal.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7925437/Premier-League-backs-Sir-Dave-Richards-over-Peter-Crouch-deal.html)
Premier League backs Sir Dave Richards over Peter Crouch deal
Sir Dave Richards retains the full support of the Premier League executive despite Fulham's attempt to remove him as chairman in protest at his alleged involvement in the transfer of Peter Crouch from Portsmouth to Tottenham.
Fulham are seeking to sue for his dismissal in the Companies Court, claiming that Richards phoned Crouch to try to persuade him to accept an offer from Tottenham worth £9 million in one lump sum instead of an £11 million offer from Craven Cottage payable in instalments.
Sources with knowledge of the case however dismiss the allegation or that any such call took place.
It is understood that, in his witness statement, Crouch says he did not speak to Richards, and that Fulham are also said to have told a Premier League inquiry that they made no formal offer for Crouch.
The suggestion that Richards might have been involved in transfer deals surprised many, but sources said he has done so routinely, several times on behalf of Fulham and on behalf of Alistair Mackintosh, the club's chief executive who previously worked for Manchester City.
Given this background Richards is expected to receive the total backing of chief executive Richard Scudamore in the Fulham case.
http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/66724,sport,football,transfer-talk-schwarzers-going-nowhere-fulham-boss-mark-hughes-tells-arsenal-montpelier-demand-25m-for-emir-spahic-ramires (http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/66724,sport,football,transfer-talk-schwarzers-going-nowhere-fulham-boss-mark-hughes-tells-arsenal-montpelier-demand-25m-for-emir-spahic-ramires)
Arsenal face fight for £25m Spahic, Schwarzer deal off
Meanwhile new Fulham boss Mark Hughes has trampled over the dreams of Mark Schwarzer by telling the Aussie shotstopper: "You're going nowhere". The 37-year-old Schwarzer has been linked with a move to Arsenal these past few weeks and it looked a done deal until Hughes' arrival at Craven Cottage. Now the former Manchester City boss is determined to keep his squad intact as much as possible, even if it means shattering the aspirations of ageing Australian goalkeepers.
"There is always interest in quality players and it is not my intention to allow the betters players leave the football club," said Hughes, adding: "There was a conversation [with Schwarzer] some time ago but I have only just come through the door and will have to refresh myself about the conversations that happened. But we want to resolve the situation as soon as possible but we are not in the position of letting our best players leave and Mark falls into that category."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7925063/Mark-Hughes-takes-a-swipe-at-Manchester-City-on-first-day-with-Fulham.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/fulham/7925063/Mark-Hughes-takes-a-swipe-at-Manchester-City-on-first-day-with-Fulham.html)
Mark Hughes takes a swipe at Manchester City on first day with Fulham
Mark Hughes delivered a withering assessment of former club Manchester City and Roberto Mancini when he took charge of Fulham.
At a press conference at Craven Cottage, Hughes claimed that he would have taken City into the Champions League if he had remained at Eastlands.
Hughes was sacked last December and Mancini replaced him. But the Italian failed to guide City into the top four.
Asked about reaching the Champions League, Hughes said: "Yes I would. I agreed to the targets at the beginning of the season, which was to get to sixth position. I agreed to that because I thought we could over-achieve. I thought fifth, possibly fourth was very, very achievable."
Hughes also revealed that he was keen to join Fulham to return to direct management after some of his powers were taken away from him at the City of Manchester Stadium.
"On some occasions at City players were presented to me which I didn't really have a direct input on. But if you get a call and someone says 'Would you like Robinho?' then, as a manager, I have to say 'Yes I would'.
"Whether a situation like that was correct in terms of timing, that's open to debate.
"People always quote my record in terms of spending at Man City but I don't always understand that. The amounts paid were not directly influenced by me.
"I have ambitions to be the best manager I can be. I have no embarrassment whatsoever about the job I did at Manchester City. My performance and what I achieved there is as good as anybody's.
"The emotion of feeling bitter is not good an emotion and I have moved on and City have moved on.
Asked whether City have an unfair advantage with their huge resources, Hughes added: "You have to have a competitive advantage – in business and football. In football terms it means having some of the better players, which means you will win more games.
"City are going to use that competitive advantage. Whether it's fair to the rest of us, probably not. But there is nothing you can do about it."
Hughes admitted that he has been pleasantly surprised by the ambition at Fulham: "My perception of Fulham was different from the reality of the situation.
''I discussed what the club anticipated doing in the coming year. My perception completely changed and then the possibility of me coming here become a reality.''
Five top priorities for Mark Hughes
»Keep his best players. Mark Schwarzer is wanted by Arsenal while Paul Konchesky and Brede Hangeland are also being coveted by rivals.
»Sign at least one striker. Top League scorer last season was Bobby Zamora, with eight goals.
»Make sure Zamora is not a "one-season wonder".
»Finish in the top 10. Fulham got to the Europa League final but finished12th in the Premier League.
»Have a good run in a cup. Hughes values the Carling Cup for its route into Europe.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/swansea-city-fc/2010/08/04/swansea-city-told-to-forget-about-brian-stock-91466-26990782/ (http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/swansea-city-fc/2010/08/04/swansea-city-told-to-forget-about-brian-stock-91466-26990782/)
Swansea City told to forget about Brian Stock
Aug 4 2010 by Staff Reporter, Western Mail
SWANSEA CITY were last night told to forget about signing Welsh international midfielder Brian Stock, with Doncaster manager Sean O'Driscoll insisting the player is going nowhere.
It's understood Stock is high up on the list of new Swans manager Brendan Rodgers' wanted men, but O'Driscoll maintains that rather than him heading for South Wales, negotiations are taking place about a new contract at Rovers.
Stock is entering the final year of his current deal at Keepmoat Stadium, a situation that alerted Rodgers.
O'Driscoll confirmed that the Liberty Stadium boss has been in touch, but has been told flatly that the former Bournemouth and Preston midfielder will not be leaving the South Yorkshire side.
The Rovers manager accepts that it can be unsettling for players when they enter the final stages of their contracts, but underlined how determined he is to retain Stock's services.
"I have spoken to Brendan Rodgers and told him we are not looking to sell," O'Driscoll said.
"Brian is fully aware of the conversation and nothing further from Swansea has since appeared.
"He's in the last year of his contract – so it becomes a difficult time for players and clubs – but we are in the process of negotiating a new deal."
O'Driscoll says Stock is one of a number of Doncaster players who are entering the final year of their current deals, whose futures he is looking to tie down.
Defenders James Chambers and James O'Connor and midfield duo Martin Woods and James Coppinger are also in talks with O'Driscoll over new deals.
"All are in the last years of their contracts so it is important that we start a process that has an end," O'Driscoll added.
"The players would like that, too, and the process is currently on-going."
The news will come as a disappointment to the Swans, who are looking to bolster their squad with the start of the new Championship campaign just days away.
Chairman Huw Jenkins confirmed to the Western Mail last week that Stock was a target of the club.
"We are looking at that type of player," he said.
"Brian Stock was a player we've talked about long before Brendan, but he likes that type of player suited to our system.
"With regards to Brian, we've had a few tentative conversations with Doncaster, but nothing more than that at this stage."
Meanwhile, Angel Rangel's agent has put pressure on the Swans to release the Spaniard so he can switch to Premiership new boys Blackpool.
Swansea are thought to have dismissed an offer from Ian Holloway's side believed to be in the region of £500,000 for Rangel.
But Rangel's representative Xavi Cruz, also his brother-in-law, wants the way cleared for him to make the move.
"It is the chance for Angel to fulfil his dream, which is to play in the Premier League," said Cruz. "Angel wants to be in the Premier League as soon as possible.
"We have been talking with the chairman during the last week and he understands the situation because this is not the first time that Angel has had the chance to play in the Premier."
Swansea said no to a bid from Fulham for the player in the January transfer window.
It's expected a bid of around £750,000 from Blackpool will persuade the Swans to do business.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2010/08/04/2054961/fulham-boss-mark-hughes-insists-that-he-will-not-sell-mark (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2010/08/04/2054961/fulham-boss-mark-hughes-insists-that-he-will-not-sell-mark)
Fulham boss Mark Hughes insists that he will not sell Mark Schwarzer to Arsenal
Australian is keen to play in the Champions League with the Gunners...
Fulham manager Mark Hughes has informed Mark Schwarzer that he has no plans to sell him to Arsenal this summer.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has already had a £2 million offer for the Australia international goalkeeper rejected by the Cottagers this summer.
Wenger is looking to replace Manuel Almunia with a steady, veteran keeper like Schwarzer, who at 37-years old is hoping to experience Champions League football for the first time.
However, Hughes insists that he has no interest in selling top players like Schwarzer and Paul Konchesky, who is reportedly of interest to Liverpool, before the new Premier League season begins.
"There is always interest in quality players and it is not my intention to allow the better players toleave the football club," Hughes told the press at his unveiling at the club on Tuesday.
"We are in a position where we don't have to sell our better players.
"We want to progress and you want to have the better players, so I suggest the two players you mention will still be Fulham players by the end of the window.
"There was a conversation [with Schwarzer] some time ago but I have only just come through the door and will have to refresh myself about the conversations that happened.
"But we want to resolve the situation as soon as possible but we are not in the position of letting our best players leave and Mark falls into that category."
http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/191043/Mohamed-Al-Fayed-lays-into-Roy-Hodgson (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/191043/Mohamed-Al-Fayed-lays-into-Roy-Hodgson)
MOHAMED AL FAYED LAYS INTO ROY HODGSON
FULHAM owner Mohamed Al Fayed yesterday unleashed a fierce attack on former manager Roy Hodgson, accusing him of "letting down" the fans and the club.
Al Fayed, 77, sitting alongside his new manager Mark Hughes at his unveiling at Craven Cottage, made clear his disappointment at Hodgson's decision to go to Liverpool this summer.
After the press conference the outspoken Al Fayed unleashed both barrels.
"We gave him all the support, we believed in him and he just let us down," said Al Fayed.
"But it's no problem, because Mark is much better.
"Roy disappointed the fans, he disappointed the players. I did everything for him, to help him. But that's his character. He can't help it. After we put him where he is now, he took advantage. I forgive him, anyhow – and I'm sure he's going to take Liverpool downhill."
Al Fayed insisted that former Manchester City manager Hughes, like Hodgson, will receive his full backing. "Mark is a nice guy. He's got a great sense. The players, I'm sure, will like him. But I can assure him it's a different atmosphere here [to Manchester City].
"I'm always here, I go to the training ground. It's a different type of ownership than when you buy it and you are in Kathmandu, like City." Al Fayed might have been poking fun at Manchester City's Abu Dhabi-based owners. He even presented Hughes with a £50 note when he was asked about his possible transfer kitty.
But he will back Welshman Hughes with hard cash as soon as he identifies his targets. "I'll give him more than £50 – it's just a tip," he said smiling. "But Mark is the man in charge and he's much better than the previous one, so I'm sure he's going to do a great job. I'm sure he's going to take us to the title."
Hughes has signed a two-year deal at Craven Cottage believed to be worth £2million a year, with the club retaining an option to add a year if results go the right way.
http://www.onenewspage.com/news/Sports/20100804/13699711/Mohamed-Al-Fayed-has-dig-at-new-Liverpool.htm (http://www.onenewspage.com/news/Sports/20100804/13699711/Mohamed-Al-Fayed-has-dig-at-new-Liverpool.htm)
Mohamed Al Fayed has dig at new Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson
Reported by guardian.co.uk on Wednesday, 4 August 2010 (7 hours ago)
• 'I forgive him but he took advantage and left us'
• 'Sure he is going to get Liverpool going downhill'
Mohamed Al Fayed was in a jovial mood at Mark Hughes's first press conference as Fulham manager, but he could not resist a dig at Roy..
http://www.tehrantimes.com/index_View.asp?code=224225 (http://www.tehrantimes.com/index_View.asp?code=224225)
Big Sam closing in on first signing
Andranik Teymourian is hopeful he can become Blackburn Rovers' first summer signing as he waits for talks with boss Sam Allardyce.
The Iranian midfielder has already undergone a medical at Brockhall and the club are now waiting to hear back about possible 'work permit complications' before continuing talks with Teymourian.
Teymourian's representatives are confident obtaining a work permit will not be an issue though and are hopeful a deal can be finalized "very soon".
Rovers arrived back home from the Sydney Festival of Football yesterday morning and manager Allardyce is expected at Brockhall this morning, although his players won't report back for duty until Thursday.
He is expected to discuss Teymourian's situation with the board and, if paperwork issues are sorted, he could be ready to sign a short term deal at Ewood Park.
The 27-year-old is desperate for a Premier League lifeline after spending the last couple of seasons on the sidelines at Fulham.
He did previously impress though during a spell under Allardyce at Bolton Wanderers and is keen to renew his working relationship with the Rovers boss, having spent a week on trial at Rovers earlier this summer.
Sources close to the player, said: "We are hopeful something can be sorted very soon. He has had his medical and has had his work permit tests."
Meanwhile Blackburn Rovers have denied reports linking them with a move for Portsmouth's Nigerian international John Utaka as they continue to wait for news on their main striking target.
The club are expected to hear in the next couple of days whether a bid has been accepted for the unnamed target but Utaka is not their man .
Utaka's representative Monique Van Vossem, said: "We had heard there might be some interest from Blackburn but nothing definite at the moment. There have certainly been no negotiations.
"There are come clubs interested but no one team has yet made their interest official. He will leave Portsmouth for sure though."
Jason Roberts' Blackburn Rovers future continues to be shrouded in uncertainty though, as Allardyce looks to bolster his firepower options, but there has been official interest for the striker to date.
The Lancashire Telegraph also understand Georgian international Zurab Khizanishvili is keen to remain in England after turning down a move to an unnamed Turkish outfit.
Khizanishvili is unlikely to feature at Ewood Park much this campaign but, with one season left on his contract, is hopeful he will attract interest closer to home. (Source: Lancashiretelegraph)
http://www.clickliverpool.com/sport/liverpool-fc/1210115-liverpool-fc-planning-move-for-australia-international-stopper.html (http://www.clickliverpool.com/sport/liverpool-fc/1210115-liverpool-fc-planning-move-for-australia-international-stopper.html)
Liverpool FC planning move for Australia international stopper
by Richard Buxton. Published Wed 04 Aug 2010 00:47, Last updated: 2010-08-04
Liverpool are lining up a move for Middlesbrough goalkeeper Brad Jones as an understudy to Pepe Reina.
Roy Hodgson is believed to be a long-standing fan of the Australia international and planned a swoop for him prior to leaving Fulham last month.
Jones is the latest stopper to be linked with a move to Anfield as Hodgson looks to boost the club's home-grown quota to meet new regulations being implemented by the Premier League for the forthcoming campaign.
The 28-year-old qualifies as a home-grown player after joining Boro in 1999, aged 17, and is keen on joining Liverpool, who have made an official inquiry about his availability.
However the resistence of Gordon Strachan has proved to be a stumbling block for the Kop boss.
Hull chief Russell Bartlett denies cash-strapped Tigers are on verge of administration
Hull owner Russell Bartlett has denied claims the club is heading for administration due to money owed on transfers. Speculation is rife that the Tigers could be forced into administration within the next 48 hours.
Club officials are holding talks with the Premier League after it emerged parachute payments of £9m due to the Tigers this week could be witheld and given to those clubs still owed cash by the relegated outfit instead.
Up front: City still owe Fulham money for the sale of Bullard
But Bartlett is hopeful no such action will be taken and insists there is no immediate crisis at the KC Stadium.
Bartlett said: 'I can categorically state that administration is simply not on the agenda. "We are well down the line in our plans to restructure the finances of the club and we are very close to meeting our targets.'
The Tigers still owe money to Stoke and Fulham for the sale of Ibrahima Sonko, Seyi Olofinjana and Jimmy Bullard.
There is also a suggestion from the Premier League that transfer fees owed to clubs abroad may also be deducted from the parachute payment.
The £2.7m transfer of Kamel Ghilas from La Liga outfit Celta Vigo is one deal where money remains outstanding along with Jozy Altidore's loan move from Villareal and Steven Mouyokolo's £2.5m switch from Boulogne in France.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1300094/Hull-chief-Russell-Bartlett-denies-Tigers-verge-administration.html#ixzz0vcikh6QV (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1300094/Hull-chief-Russell-Bartlett-denies-Tigers-verge-administration.html#ixzz0vcikh6QV)
Fayed - Roy Will Take Kop Down
FULHAM owner Mohamed Fayed last night claimed Roy Hodgson will take Liverpool 'downhill'.
The Craven Cottage chief also labelled him a 'bugger' for joining the Reds. Fayed, 77, said: "Roy disappointed the fans and the players.
"I'm sure he'll take Liverpool downhill. He was just a bugger. I did everything to help him. But that's his character, he can't help it.
"After we put him where he is now, he took advantage but good luck to him.
"We gave him all the support, we believed in him and he let us down. I forgive him, anyhow."
Fayed made his comments as Mark Hughes was officially unveiled as Fulham's new boss.
The Egyptian added: "Mark's much better than the previous one. He knows what he's doing.
"We have a nice guy now. Don't mention Roy Hodgson any more.
"Fulham's a wonderful club and I'm sure Mark will do a great job.
"The players will like him - he's going to win us the championship."
Read more: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3080672/Fayed-Roy-will-take-Kop-down.html#ixzz0vcj2ZyTT (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3080672/Fayed-Roy-will-take-Kop-down.html#ixzz0vcj2ZyTT)
Luke Young On Way To Fulham? + Other Transfer Talk
A little birdie just told me that Luke Young may well be on his way for talks concerning a move to Fulham. Now I can't hang my hat on this rumour and I do like to be clear on 'itk' stuff but seems there could be some substance to this. I hope, if he hasn't a chance of getting back into the Villa team, that he does get sorted, I don't think he ever let us down and will no doubt get a good reception from the Villa faithful if he returns with another club.
Read more: http://www.astonvilla.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=7505136#ixzz0ve9RG13Y (http://www.astonvilla.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=7505136#ixzz0ve9RG13Y)
http://www.clicklancashire.com/sport/blackburn-rovers-fc/127767-iranian-midfielder-poised-to-join-blackburn-rovers.html (http://www.clicklancashire.com/sport/blackburn-rovers-fc/127767-iranian-midfielder-poised-to-join-blackburn-rovers.html)
Iranian midfielder poised to join Blackburn Rovers
Former Bolton Wanderers and Fulham FC midfielder Andranik Teymourian is ready to sign for Blackburn Rovers.
The Lancashire Telegraph claims the Iranian midfielder has already undergone a medical.
The move now seems to hang on whether Teymourian can obtain a work permit and it is understood that no further talks will be held until this issue is resolved.
Teymourian's representatives are confident obtaining a work permit will not be an issue though and are hopeful a deal can be finalised "very soon".
Sources close to the player, said: "We are hopeful something can be sorted very soon.
"He has had his medical and has had his work permit tests."
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/04/hughes-refuses-to-panic-over-new-signings-64767-26995886/ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/04/hughes-refuses-to-panic-over-new-signings-64767-26995886/)
Hughes refuses to panic over new signings
MARK Hughes insists he's still got enough time to land his transfer targets.
Fulham have signed just Philippe Senderos since the season ended almost three months ago.
However, with the big Premier League kick-off against Bolton less just 10 days away, Hughes is refusing to press the panic button as he bids to make his mark in SW6.
He said: "Ideally, I would've been in place before pre-season but that wasn't possible.
"But we've still got two weeks until the start of the season and another two weeks left of the window after that."
http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/fulham/37720/mark-hughes-better-than-bugger-roy-hodgson-al-fayeds-pathetic-rant.html (http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/fulham/37720/mark-hughes-better-than-bugger-roy-hodgson-al-fayeds-pathetic-rant.html)
Mark Hughes Better Than 'Bugger' Roy Hodgson – Al Fayed's Pathetic Rant
By Ollie Irish
Fulham owner Mohamed Al Fayed has attacked Roy Hodgson for walking out on the Cottagers to join Liverpool.
Al Fayed said: "We gave him [Hodgson] all the support, we believed in him and he let us down. It's no problem because Mark [Hughes, the new Fulham manager] is much better. He's better looking too.
"Roy disappointed the fans, he disappointed the players, he was just a bugger.
"I did everything for him, to help him. But that's his character. He can't help it. I forgive him, anyhow and I'm sure he's going to take Liverpool downhill."
Quite how Hodgson disappointed the fans by is a mystery to me. I was under the impression he had just led Fulham to their most spectacular couple of seasons ever? Perhaps it was all a dream.
Al Fayed does neither himself – nor Hughes – any favours with this bitter, spiteful rant. The Egyptian relic should shut the hell up if all he's capable of is spewing forth bile.
Oh, and Hodgson is clearly a much better manager than Hughes. If anything, it's Hughes who will take Fulham downhill, while Liverpool stabilise under Uncle Woy.
http://www.bettingpro.com/category/Football/Germany-keeper-Timo-Hildebrand-keen-on-Premier-League-move-201008040078/ (http://www.bettingpro.com/category/Football/Germany-keeper-Timo-Hildebrand-keen-on-Premier-League-move-201008040078/)
Germany keeper Timo Hildebrand keen on Premier League move
German goalkeeper Timo Hildebrand would welcome a move to England, according to the player's agent.
The 31-year-old is a free agent following his departure from Hoffenheim at the end of last season, and both Wigan and Fulham are reportedly keen to land the Germany international.
Agent Martin Stopper said: "He is very keen to challenge himself in the English game.
"Hildebrand feels the time is right to play in the Premier League."
The goalkeeper, capped seven times, began his career with Stuttgart, making over 200 appearances for the Bundesliga side before a failed move to Valencia in 2007.
Hildebrand lasted just 18 months with the Spanish side and, in search of regular first-team football, left to join Hoffenheim.
http://blog.sport.co.uk/Football/833/Top_Ten_Starlets_that_didnt_deliver_in_England.aspx (http://blog.sport.co.uk/Football/833/Top_Ten_Starlets_that_didnt_deliver_in_England.aspx)
Top Ten: Starlets that didn't deliver in England
Liam Britnell
Danny Cadamarteri: The young England hopeful was a product of the Everton youth academy, and made his debut in 1996 against Chelsea. He was born to a mother of Italian descent and a Jamaican father. He went on to make 92 apperances for Everton in six years scoring just eight times. In which time he made three appearances for England U21's.
After a loan move to Fulham in 1999, Danny was forced to take a hiatus from the beautiful game after he was found guilty for assault, he was subsequently fined £2,000 and told he was to leave Goodison Park. He left the Toffee's to go to Bradford City where he was for two years, scoring five goals, before a brief stint at Sheffield United and a second spell at Bradford.
Cadamarteri then slipped off the radar as he fell into the lower divisions, playing for Grays Athletic. A few more clubs were still to come, including Leicester City, a loan spell at Doncaster Rovers and Huddersfield Town. Danny Cadamarteri is currently at Dundee Utd, where he has scored 4 times in 21 appearances for the Scottish side.
Giles Barnes: Barnes joined Derby County in 2005 on his 17th birthday, after now Hull City manager Phil Brown was impressed by the youngsters' trial as a trainee. Giles made his debut later that year coming on as a late sub in defeat to Grimsby Town.
There was a lot of hype surrounding the young Derby midfielder from the off, as he began to establish himself in the side and this led to attention from the Premier League.
Barnes had a decent spell for Derby in the Premier League after they were promoted via the Playoff's in 2007. He won Derby's young player of the year for the 2006-07 season, before the injuries started to mount up.
After a unsuccessful loan spell at Fulham, he returned to Derby only to get injured in a pre-season friendly against Stoke. He trained with Birmingham City for a short while before a move to West Bromwich Albion was settled in January of this year.
Ian Selley: Starting his career at Arsenal as a trainee, he made his debut against Blackburn Rovers in 1992 aged 18. He made around 50 appearances for the Gunners, his most famous coming against Parma in the 1994 European Cup Winners Cup Final, in which he was the youngest player on the field.
Unfortunately for Selley, he broke his leg in 1995, and despite rumours of Arsene Wenger wanting him to play a role in his new squad, he was sold to Fulham in 1997. After just three games for the Cottagers, lightning struck twice as Ian broke his leg and was once again moved along by his employers.
After loan spells from Wimbledon to Southend United, the inevitable lower leagues came calling. He played 97 games for Woking scoring 19, before moves to Lewes, Grays Athletic, Maidstone United, Dorchester Town and currently Havant & Waterlooville.
http://www.uxbridgegazette.co.uk/west-london-sport/hayesandyeading/2010/08/04/ex-fulham-and-barnet-goalkeeper-ready-for-comeback-at-hayes-113046-26995071/ (http://www.uxbridgegazette.co.uk/west-london-sport/hayesandyeading/2010/08/04/ex-fulham-and-barnet-goalkeeper-ready-for-comeback-at-hayes-113046-26995071/)
Ex-Fulham and Barnet goalkeeper ready for comeback at Hayes
Aug 4 2010 By Chris Slavin
NEW number one Lee Harrison has assured Hayes & Yeading fans that he is in great shape to make a comeback at the age of 38.
Manager Garry Haylock's five-month pursuit of the former Barnet favourite finally ended at the weekend when he signed on the dotted line at Church Road for next season.
But Harrison's lack of match practice – his last competitive first-team appearance was for Barnet against Luton on April 18, 2009 – has led Hayes & Yeading fans to question the move.
However, Harrison, who spent his more recent times at Underhill as a goalkeeping coach, has no such concerns.
"I have played behind closed doors matches and kept myself fit," said the ex-Fulham goalkeeper, whose second spell with the Cottagers came to an end in 1996. "With less than two weeks until the start of the season, I have been getting fitter with every game.
"I have been injury-free and I do not have a problem with starting the season against Bath City. We have some inexperience at the back and they need a voice to help them through, one of the things I am good at is talking to players during the game and I am sure I can benefit them."
Harrison, who will have a testimonial match for Barnet against Tottenham Hotspur after over 300 league appearances at Underhill, says it was the lure of full-time football at Hayes that attracted him.
"It is important for me to be a part of a full-time set-up after 20 years as a professional," said Harrison, who will continue coaching at Dagenham & Redbridge. "You are a long-time retired and I would sooner keep playing.
"I like Garry's plans and it excites me to be a part of a club that is going full-time for the first time."
http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/new-liverpool-boss-deserves-more-respect-than-that (http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/new-liverpool-boss-deserves-more-respect-than-that)
New Liverpool boss deserves more respect than that
It is wrong to suggest Roy Hodgson 'took advantage' of Fulham
By Dave Smith August 04, 2010
It always annoys me when people take cheap shots at others who they have worked with and praised previously, but have then chosen to move on to further their careers.
One major case in point is that concerning Roy Hodgson and Fulham, whose outspoken owner Mohamed Al Fayed yesterday took an unfair pop at the man who led the Cottagers to the Europa League Final.
Who could blame veteran boss Roy, one of the nicest men in the game, for taking up the invitation to manage Liverpool at this stage of his career?
And who could question the job he did at Craven Cottage? He produced and developed a quality team, leaving Mark Hughes with an excellent squad with which to work.
He also conducted himself with the utmost dignity and respect at all times; both whilst he was in charge and in the aftermath of his departure.
Which is why I was surprised to hear the comments of Mr Al Fayed who, having appointed Hughes as Hodgson's successor, said of Roy: "He inherited a great team which had fantastic results but unfortunately this guy (Hodgson), after we put him where he is now, he took advantage and left us. But good luck to him, good luck to Liverpool."
Surely there's no need for comments like that about one of the most respected managers in the game, especially after all he's done for Fulham.
http://www.fansfc.com/story/23286.html (http://www.fansfc.com/story/23286.html)
McGregor ready to deliver Fulham snub
11:30 AM 04 August, 2010
Allan McGregor is keen to remain at Rangers Football Club.
Mark Hughes still fears Mark Schwarzer could join Arsenal this summer, which would leave Fulham in the market for a replacement goalkeeper.
Reports suggest the Craven Cottage manager, who was officially unveiled at the club this week, has set his sights on a move for McGregor.
However, The Scotsman claim the Scotland international would turn his back on the Premier League side, as he intends to remain at Ibrox
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/west-ham-united/defender-hopes-dashed-1083017.html (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/west-ham-united/defender-hopes-dashed-1083017.html)
Defender hopes dashed
Last Updated: Wed, 04 Aug 2010 11:37
Mark Hughes has made it clear that he has no intention of selling his top stars and that includes Hammers target Paul Konchesky.
Avram Grant had been keen to add the left back to the Hammers squad but the chances look to be slim after their new boss Hughes said he would not be selling the likes of Konchesky or Mark Schwarzer who has been linked to Arsenal.
Hughes has made it clear he is not going to sell his best players, he said: "There is always interest in quality players and it is not my intention to allow the betters players leave the football club."
"We are in a position where we don't have to sell our better players.
"We want to progress and you want to have the better players, so I suggest the two players you mention will still be Fulham players by the end of the window."
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1300208/Fulham-West-Ham-Dusan-Pernis-goalkeeper-eyes-Premier-League-chance.html?ito=feeds-newsxml (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1300208/Fulham-West-Ham-Dusan-Pernis-goalkeeper-eyes-Premier-League-chance.html?ito=feeds-newsxml)
Fulham and West Ham to move for Dusan Pernis as goalkeeper eyes Premier League chance
Dundee United goalkeeper Dusan Pernis has alerted Fulham and West Ham to has availability by announcing his hope to secure a move to the Premier League.
The Slovakian World Cup stopper is being tracked by the London clubs who are seeking reinforcements for different reasons. Fulham are set to lose Mark Schwarzer to Arsenal while the Hammers' No 1, Rob Green, could suffer a World Cup hangover after his gaffe for England against the USA in South Africa.
Both clubs sent scouts to watch the 25-year-old in action against Hull earlier this month but are yet to follow up their interest following the 2-1 defeat.
'I have heard the rumours but I don't know anything about any offers from those clubs,' Pernis said. 'Of course it's great to have those kinds of teams interested in me.
'And I always said I came to Scotland to move closer to my dream which was to play in the English Premier League.
'But I am young, I'm 25 and I have plenty of time to do that in the future. I am a Dundee United player and happy with that.
'It has also helped me go to the World Cup with my country, which was a fantastic achievement.
'I feel I can continue to become a better goalkeeper here - I do not have to leave.'
Pernis was a near ever-present for the Tangerines after joining them in January, and helped them to a third-placed finish behind the usual big two of Celtic and Rangers.
http://www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk/sport/HULL-CITY-Tigers-linked-Simpson/article-2489049-detail/article.html (http://www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk/sport/HULL-CITY-Tigers-linked-Simpson/article-2489049-detail/article.html)
HULL CITY: Tigers linked to Arsenal striker Jay Simpson
HULL City are interested in signing Arsenal's young striker, Jay Simpson for £1.2m, according to today's Daily Mirror.
The 21-year-old is thought to have 12 months left on his current contract at the Emirates.
Despite netting twice in a friendly against Barnet last month, Simpson was left out of Arsenal's pre-season visit to Austria.
Having slipped down the strikers' pecking order at the Gunners, it could pave the way for the former England junior international to either go out on loan or be sold.
That has alerted a string of clubs to his availability, with Bristol City, QPR, Leicester, Celtic, Blackpool, Fulham, Millwall, Leeds and Nottingham Forest all linked with the player over the last month.
The Arsenal academy product is no stranger to the Championship, having scored 12 goals in 39 appearances for QPR last season.
Given the club's financial situation, it would appear very unlikely City could fork out £1m-plus for the striker.
However, with the Tigers hoping to wrap up a loan deal for Spurs' youngster John Bostock before Saturday's Championship opener against Swansea, a similar loan move for Simpson might not be beyond the realms of possibility.
It is no secret the Tigers are hunting a striker in this transfer window, having seen the likes of Jozy Altidore and Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink leave the club and Kamel Ghilas go out on loan so far this summer.
Daniel Cousin is also expected to head for the exit door before this weekend.
Simpson would appear to fit Tigers' bill – if the deal is right.
http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/Blades-Statue-immortalises-former-Sheffield.6454989.jp (http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/Blades-Statue-immortalises-former-Sheffield.6454989.jp)
Blades: Statue immortalises former Sheffield United star
(http://editorial.jpress.co.uk/web/Upload/SHEF//TH1_3820102DooleyShaw%20Statues%20(4)(4).jpg)
Unveiling: Hettie Shaw and her family unveil a statue of her husband Sheffield United legend Joe Shaw at Bramall Lane.
SHEFFIELD United star Joe Shaw's widow Hettie said the new statue of her late husband outside Bramall Lane was a "lovely" tribute to the late footballer.
Blades legend Shaw, who made more than 700 senior outings for the club, was the trusty bulwark of the United defence in the 1950s and 60s.
He has been immortalised alongside fellow hero Derek Dooley.
Their statues were unveiled in a joint ceremony last weekend.
Hettie, who lives at Dronfield Woodhouse, attended the event with seven members of the family.
They included their two daughters. The eldest, Pam, had flown in from Ireland, where she now lives.
Hettie said: "It was a big occasion. There were hundreds of United supporters at the unveiling despite it pouring down with rain.
"The statue is lovely and all the family agree. It's a credit to the sculptor, Paul Vanstone."
After retiring, Shaw, who died in 2007, coached briefly at Bramall Lane and was then manager of York City and later Fulham's chief scout. He spent three years with Third Division Chesterfield.
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04082010/63/hughes-pushes-zamora-england-claims.html (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04082010/63/hughes-pushes-zamora-england-claims.html)
Hughes pushes Zamora's England claims
New Fulham boss Mark Hughes has vowed to help Bobby Zamora break into the England side as quickly as possible.
Zamora enjoyed arguably the finest season of his career last term and was linked with a call-up to Fabio Capello's provisional squad for this summer's World Cup.
An Achilles injury ended any hope the 29-year-old had of forcing his way onto the plane for South Africa but the subsequent retirement of Emile Heskey has opened up one of England's striking berths for next week's friendly against Hungary.
Hughes, who was officially unveiled as Fulham manager after signing a two-year contract last week, is excited about working with Zamora and hopes to see him gain senior international recognition soon.
"Let's hope so - it's down to Bobby," Hughes said.
"We'll give him every opportunity to show what he can do. If he plays well for Fulham then he may get recognition at international level."
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11800_6294562,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11800_6294562,00.html)
Tigana glad to be back
Bordeaux boss beaming ahead of new season
Jean Tigana admits he is delighted to have returned to his spiritual home as the new manager of Bordeaux.
The former France international was announced as Laurent Blanc's successor back in May, bringing to an end a three-year absence from management.
Tigana has been out of the game since parting company with Turkish outfit Besiktas in 2007.
Before that he enjoyed considerable success as manager of Fulham, Monaco and Lyon.
He is delighted to have experienced life away from his homeland, but insists he has no desire to leave France again.
Tigana hopes he is just starting out on what will become a long-running relationship with Bordeaux, a club that means more to him than most.
In the 1980s he was an integral part of a side which dominated French football, making over 250 appearances for the club during an eight-year stint.
"I had many propositions, but my desire was to go abroad," he told L'Equipe on his decision to join Fulham in 2000.
"It is something you have to experience. England and then Turkey were very enriching, but there was also a lot of pressure.
"Going abroad is now done for me. I have been through that already.
"Bordeaux is my club. They have won six national titles, three with me, and three French Cups, two with me. I am a little part of this club's history. To come back has been very emotional."
Bordeaux chairman Jean-Louis Triaud insists Tigana was always the club's preferred choice once Blanc announced that he was to take the reins of the France national side.
"We never lost our desire to sign him," he said.
"We thought about the option for several years. As a replacement for Laurent Blanc, he was our first choice.
"He was not difficult to convince. We had a phone call, we met and it was all sorted in 15 minutes.
"We wanted to hire a coach with a strong character, with a lot of titles to his name and an impressive CV as a coach."
Jack Wolfskin become new sponsor of Fulham FC
German outdoor clothing outfitter, Jack Wolfskin, continues its successful campaign to increase brand awareness in the United Kingdom with its commitment to sponsor English Premier League club Fulham FC, during the next two seasons. The relationship extends to significant presence on LED perimeter advertising and Jack Wolfskin branding throughout the Club's varied executions.
'The decision to approach the long-standing club from London's West End is in keeping with our goals of increasing brand recognition in the UK and supporting our sales activities in the London Metropolitan Area'. Explained Manfred Hell, Managing Director of Jack Wolfskin GmbH & Co. KGaA.
He continued: 'Fulham, as the oldest, continuously active professional club in London, has a long history of tradition, embodied in the time-honoured and unique Craven Cottage Stadium. The partnership with Fulham FC forms plays an important role in promoting the Jack Wolfskin brand in the UK and we very much look forward to working with the Cottagers.'
As the most important football league in the world, the Premier League has an immense drawing power which Jack Wolfskin, a company operating on a global scale, can use to its full advantage. Having reached last year's European League final, Fulham made a strong impression internationally and, as it enters its tenth successive season, is an established name in the Premier League.
Alistair Mackintosh, CEO Fulham Football Club added:
We are delighted to welcome Jack Wolfskin to Fulham at this very exciting time in the Club's progression. We enjoyed arguably our most successful ever season in 2009/10 and the Chairman and the board are determined that we continue with ambition and drive. Attracting partners of the calibre of Jack Wolfskin, is a reflection of our success, both on and off the pitch.'
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/JackWolfskin.aspx#ixzz0veIBtsZP (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/JackWolfskin.aspx#ixzz0veIBtsZP)
Countdown to Tomorrow's Home Kit Launch
The Club will be launching the brand new 2010/11 Fulham Home Kit from Kappa this Thursday 5th August and you could be the first to pick one up in either of the Club stores located on Fulham Road and Craven Cottage. Kappa, a leading brand in European sportswear, has developed this innovative Home shirt for the Fulham Football Club squad at its Kappa R&D centre in Turin, Italy, to the finest quality and design standards. The home kit this year is more than just a replica, it is of the exact standards worn by the First Team.
The new kit continues in Fulham's traditional black and white, and incorporates the well-known Omini Kappa logo of the back-to-back male and female silhouette.
Can't make it to the Fulham stores before Saturday? Then why not pick your brand new Fulham Home Kit before this Saturday's friendly against Werder Bremen at Craven Cottage. Buy your match tickets today.
Billboard Campaign Launched in London
The Club would also like to make fans aware that it will also be supporting the new Kappa home shirt with an extensive outdoor campaign in the form of billboards in various locations throughout South West London starting this week and through to the start of the Barclays Premier League season on 14th August.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/HomeKitCountdown.aspx#ixzz0veIZZv8R (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/HomeKitCountdown.aspx#ixzz0veIZZv8R)
Seatwave Fulham Ticket Exchange Now Open
With Fulham v Manchester United now sold out, Seatwave, Fulham's Official Ticket Exchange, is now open for this game. If you're a Season Ticket Holder and can't attend this match, you can sell your ticket via Seatwave to another Fulham Season Ticket Holder or Member and you'll even get some money back!
For those short of a match ticket, the exchange will give Fulham Members & Season Ticket Holders the opportunity to get hold of genuine match tickets safely and securely.
Using the Fulham FC Ticket Exchange couldn't be easier:
Log on at www.seatwave.com/fulhamfc (http://www.seatwave.com/fulhamfc) and activate your Fulham FC account. You will need your client reference number then simply follow the prompts.
Select the Manchester United match and list your ticket for sale.
Fulham FC Season Ticket Holders and Members can browse the site for your available tickets.
If your ticket sells, your season ticket for that match will be deactivated and the buyer will be sent a paper ticket (there's no need to hand over your card).
You will be reimbursed for your ticket directly into your bank account. (Your season ticket cost divided by 19, less a 10% + VAT seller's service charge). If your ticket does not sell you will be notified before the fixture.
For more information on the exchange please visit http://www.seatwave.com/fulhamfc/ticket-exchange/FAQ (http://www.seatwave.com/fulhamfc/ticket-exchange/FAQ)
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/ManUSeatwave.aspx#ixzz0veIesrNc (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/ManUSeatwave.aspx#ixzz0veIesrNc)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/africa/8885690.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/africa/8885690.stm)
Ghana omit Essien & Muntari for South Africa friendly
Michael Essien and Inter Milan's Sulley Muntari are among the big names missing from the Ghana squad to face South Africa in a friendly next week.
But Black Cats coach Milovan Rajevac has named a strong squad, including 12 of the players who reached the quarter-finals of the 2010 World Cup.
On Monday, Essien played his first game for for his club Chelsea since the start of 2010 after a knee injury.
No reasons have been given for leaving out Muntari and Fulham's John Pantsil.
The Black Stars reached the last eight of the World Cup for the first time in their history in July and only missed out on a place in the semi-finals after losing to Uruguay in a penalty shoot-out.
Rajevac has called up Cofie Bekoe, Harrison Afful, Bernard Kumordzi, Haminu Draman, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu and Yaw Antwi in an 18-man list named for Wednesday's clash in Johannesburg.
The match will be played at Soccer City - the scene of the World Cup final and venue of the Black Stars loss to Uruguay.
Also included is Andre 'Dede' Ayew one of the stars of the Black Stars World Cup campaign who has been linked with a move away from French champions Marseille.
Reports in a German newspaper claim he has signed for Bundesliga side VFB Stuttgart, despite Marseille coach Didier Deschamps insisting the 20-year-old is part of his plans in the coming season.
Ghana Team:
Goalkeepers: Richard Kingson (unattached), Daniel Agyei (Liberty Professionals).
Defenders: Samuel Inkoom (Basel, Switzerland), Harrison Afful (Esperance, Tunisia), John Mensah (Lyon, France), Lee Addy (Bechem Chelsea), Jonathan Mensah (Granada, Spain).
Midfielders: Anthony Annan (Rosenborg, Norway), Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu (Udinese, Italy), Kwadwo Asamoah (Udinese, Italy), Andre Ayew (Marseille, France), Kevin-Prince Boateng (Portsmouth, England), Cofie Bekoe (Petrojet, Egypt), Bernard Kumordz (Panionios FC, Greece).
Strikers: Asamoah Gyan (Rennes, France), Dominic Adiyiah (AC Milan, Italy), Haminu Draman(Lokomotiv Moscow, Russia), Yaw Antwi (FK Vojvodina, Serbia).
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04082010/63/davis-misses-premier-league.html (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04082010/63/davis-misses-premier-league.html)
Davis misses Premier League
Rangers midfielder Steven Davis admits he misses playing in the Premier League.
The Northern Ireland international joined Walter Smith's side from Fulham in 2008 in a £3million move after a successful loan spell at the club he supported as a schoolboy.
Davis, 25, is one of Rangers' most saleable assets and his revelation will do little to calm the nerves of Light Blues fans who have already seen six players leave the cash-strapped club this summer.
The former Aston Villa midfielder, preparing for Saturday's friendly against Newcastle United at Ibrox, insists the solution to his frustrations would be for the Old Firm to move to England - but accepts that is an unlikely scenario.
"I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss playing Premier League-standard teams every week and it would be hard not to miss it," said Davis, who has been recently linked with Everton.
"Without being disrespectful to the SPL, I think everybody connected with Rangers would like nothing more than to be taking on sides of that calibre all the time. That's why we find our pre-season games against the big English sides so enjoyable. It's a real opportunity for us to show what we're capable of."
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hC2_LXBEGivQdoiQ5XyoK68xCKjQ (http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hC2_LXBEGivQdoiQ5XyoK68xCKjQ)
Hodgson tackles Al Fayed over 'walk out' claim
LIVERPOOL, England — Roy Hodgson has accused Mohamed Al Fayed of damaging their relationship after the Fulham owner hit out at Hodgson for quitting Craven Cottage to join Liverpool.
Hodgson has admitted he was disappointed to read his former chairman's comments in the wake of him leaving Fulham to succeed Rafael Benitez at Anfield.
Al Fayed, 77, accused Hodgson of letting the club down by walking out on them.
Hodgson, who helped established Fulham in the Premier League and led them to last season's Europa League final during his successful spell in charge at the London club, refused to let Al Fayed's criticism pass without a response when questioned on the subject.
Hodgson said: "They were part jovial I think. He (Al Fayed) didn't want me to leave and thought that's what I should do.
"But the chance to manage here was a bit special. I loved Fulham. My good fortune in leaving was that all the staff, players and chief executive understood the decision.
"I'm a bit disappointed that the excellent relationship I had with Mohamed has taken a bit of a knockback. It would have been nice had he said nice things about me, but I'll just have to take things on the chin."
Hodgson meanwhile admits he might be powerless to prevent Javier Mascherano from leaving if an acceptable bid comes in.
The Argentine captain is keen on a move to Inter Milan to be reunited with Benitez and Hodgson knows he faces a difficult task in keeping the midfield enforcer despite having managed to talk Fernando Torres into remaining at the club.
Mascherano's agent has flown to Italy to try and thrash out a deal with the European champions and Hodgson added: "In terms of Javier Mascherano, that will be more difficult.
"If a big offer comes in and it's a club he wants to go to then that will be harder (for us), but this hasn't happened yet and I continue to work with him and consider him a Liverpool player.
"If an offer comes in that meets our valuation and he wants to go, then maybe my powers of persuasion won't be as strong."
Hodgson is delighted Torres has pledged his future to the club ahead of the new season, despite strong speculation linking him with moves to Chelsea and Real Madrid.
But Hodgson did admit he never feared Torres, who is doubtful for the start of the new campaign, would turn his back on the club.
He said: "Of course I'm pleased. He's only been back a couple of days and needs to do a lot of work to recover from his holidays and the injury he picked up at World Cup.
"I'm still hopeful it won't be out of question to use him against Arsenal. I've got to say, ever since I took the job we were always confident he would stay and that there was nothing to worry about, that he would play for Liverpool.
"It's nice the speculation can now end once and for all and that he has made it absolutely clear how committed he is to this club.
"We believe he wasn't fully fit going into World Cup and that affected his performances. We want to make sure we prepare him right for the new season because it's not just about the first few games. But we don't want to look too far ahead."
Hodgson has promised to field his strongest possible side when Liverpool host Rabotnicki Skopje in the second leg of their Europa League, third round qualifying game at Anfield later Thursday.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5gGnU8FhNlXyaIdgG0uL_KfCKxxDw (http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5gGnU8FhNlXyaIdgG0uL_KfCKxxDw)
Hughes vows to help Zamora
New Fulham boss Mark Hughes has vowed to help Bobby Zamora break into the England side as quickly as possible.
Zamora enjoyed arguably the finest season of his career last term and was linked with a call-up to Fabio Capello's provisional squad for this summer's World Cup. An Achilles injury ended any hope the 29-year-old had of forcing his way onto the plane for South Africa but the subsequent retirement of Emile Heskey has opened up one of England's striking berths for next week's friendly against Hungary.
Hughes, who was officially unveiled as Fulham manager on Tuesday after signing a two-year contract last week, said: "Let's hope so - it's down to Bobby. We'll give him every opportunity to show what he can do. If he plays well for Fulham then he may get recognition at international level."
Zamora scored 19 goals in all competitions last season, and Hughes challenged him to better that tally this term.
The former Manchester City boss said: "He had a great season.
"What Bobby needs to do is obviously build on that and become a consistent scorer for seasons to come.
"That's the demand that we will place on him.
"It can't be that you just have one standout season and you don't build on it.
"That wouldn't be acceptable for any player.
"Certainly, from our point of view, we will drive players on to achieve what they're capable of. Bobby is a player who can achieve as much as he wants."
http://www.fansfc.com/story/23292.html (http://www.fansfc.com/story/23292.html)
Fulham ready to make Santa Cruz splash
Fulham Football Club manager Mark Hughes has, perhaps predictably, been linked with a big-money move for Roque Santa Cruz.
The Welsh coach first worked with the Paraguayan international at Blackburn Rovers, and he moved heaven and earth to lure him to Manchester City last summer.
Santa Cruz endured an injury-plagued season following his £17million move to Eastlands, and he is expected to leave the club in the coming weeks.
Reports suggest Hughes is hoping to sign the 28-year-old for a third time, and is prepared to pay around £8million to take him to Craven Cottage.
The South American isn't the only City player being linked with their former coach, as Craig Bellamy, Nedum Onuoha and Stephen Ireland are also reported targets.
Fulham - Hughes Aims High!
Speaking to the press at the news conference yesterday, confirming his appointment, Mark Hughes, to his credit, remained remarkably calm when pressed about his time at Manchester City.
At City, Mark was operating in an environment whereby cash was plentiful and players were signed whatever the cost. But, at Craven Cottage, Mark realises that things are slightly different and compared his forthcoming spell here with his spell at Blackburn whereby he spent prudently but also achieved a degree of success.
This is the gist of what he had to say,
"At Fulham it`s a different league in terms of what we can achieve."
"But whenever I`ve gone into a club, I`ve tried to overachieve, I don`t play down expectations like some managers do."
"Some downplay it and then get a pat on the back but I don`t. Fans need to feel they can achieve something."
"I`ll try to build on what`s been achieved here - it`s not as tough as managing City."
"Don`t forget I was in a similar role at Blackburn and the budgets I`ll be dealing with will be significantly lower than what I`ve had in the last couple of years."
But my spending record at Rovers will compare with anybody."
Two points we`d like to pick up. The first relates to overachieving. It`s an admirable attitude an done to be admired. We don`t want somebody in charge whose happy to finish mid table each season and if that they do finish slightly higher look like the cat that`s got the cream!
And secondly, his record at Rovers with regard to cash spent was very decent picking up players that have subsequently proved to be value for money or sold on at a profit.
Exciting and interesting times ahead!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=207417#ixzz0vekudQny (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=207417#ixzz0vekudQny)
http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/899454/Who-will-win-the-Premier-League-Golden-Boot-this-season.html (http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/899454/Who-will-win-the-Premier-League-Golden-Boot-this-season.html)
GOLDEN BOOT CONTENDERS
WITH the big kick off just a week away, the Sport of the World takes a look at the leading contenders for the Golden Boot.
Last year's winner, Didier Drogba, is the bookies' favourite to bag the award once again.
Arsenal's Robin van Persie will be looking to fire the Gunners to their first Premier League title since 2004, and, along with World Cup flops Fernando Torres and Wayne Rooney, is hotly tipped to give the Chelsea talisman a run for his money.
Darren Bent was last season's dark horse. Despite finding the net 24 times, the Sunderland striker was overlooked by Fabio Capello ahead of England's disastrous World Cup campaign.
Meanwhile, Bobby Zamora may prove a decent bet at 100/1. The Fulham hitman was on fire towards the back end of the season and could be a real steal if he can rekindle that rich vein of form.
Emmanuel Adebayor and Dimitar Berbatov have flopped in front of goal since their big-money moves. With a point to prove, the pair could be worth a punt at 33/1 and 50/1 respectively.
However, more often than not, a surprise package fires their way towards the top of the goals tally from under the radar . Remember Andrew Johnson in 2004-5 and Benny McCarthy in 2006-7? Who will be this year's shock goal-grabber?
