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Briggs Takes His Chance


Wednesday 25th August 2010


Fulham FC News

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Mark Hughes named a very strong team for Wednesday evening's Carling Cup Second Round match against Port Vale, making just three changes from the side which had drawn against Manchester United in the Premier League days earlier. But one intriguing name on the team sheet was that of Matthew Briggs, the 19-year-old Academy graduate selected to make his full Fulham debut.

Briggs had last turned out for the Whites First Team back in May 2007 as a substitute in the last game of the season against Middlesbrough. In the event, he became the youngest player to ever appear in the Premier League, but it's been a long wait since then for the England U19 international, so he was determined to seize his opportunity with both hands when it came.

"Since then I've been training hard to keep my development going," he explained. "This season the new Manager has come in, and he's been taking a look at the players available to him, and I grabbed my chance as soon as it came.

"I found out I was in the squad yesterday after training, but I didn't know I would be starting until before the game today. I wasn't really nervous – I've been waiting a long time for this moment, so I was just determined to make the most of it."

And Briggs did just that. Named in an otherwise experienced line-up, his team-mates gave him plenty of early touches, and before long he was supplying the searching cross which found Zoltan Gera who headed Fulham in front.

The teenager was also instrumental in starting the move which led to Fulham's third on a night of many positives for him to reflect upon.

"Getting involved so early on gave me a lot of confidence, especially getting the assist for our early goal – that really gave settled me down," he detailed.

"It was good to be named in a strong team too – with experienced players around me. They helped me settle, and it was a good experience being involved with players like them. Hopefully it will happen a lot more this season."

His inclusion also proved that Mark Hughes is willing to take a chance on the youth players emerging from the burgeoning Fulham Academy, and Matthew is sure that it will offer encouragement to others like him waiting for their big chance.

"Me getting a chance today was obviously really nice for me, but it will also give some of the other lads incentive to see what they can do if they train hard and impress the Manager," he considered. "He's looking at us younger players now, and that's encouraging for everyone."

And having played his part in a very convincing victory to see the Whites into the Third Round of the Carling Cup, Briggs hopes Wednesday's result may prove to be the first step in a long and ultimately successful cup run.

"All the lads were professional today," he said. "We played how we had to play – stuck to our passing game and our Premier League class showed against a team from a lower division.

"We've got a great chance in this cup, so we'll look forward to the draw for the next round and, who knows? Hopefully we'll go all the way."
.

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Fulham 6 - 0 Port Vale

Mark Hughes named just three changes to the side that drew with Manchester United at the weekend – full debutant Matthew Briggs filled in at left-back whilst Moussa Dembele also made his first full start for the Whites and Zoltan Gera took up his position on the right flank.

Craven Cottage reserved a fine welcome for two names from the past in the shape of Geoff Horsfield and Micky Adams.

The visitors lined-up with a flexible 5-3-2 formation, looking to utilise the forward runs of Adam Yates and Louis Dodds at fullback. But despite their early attacking intentions – they were simply unable to contain a rampant performance from the Whites.

Zoltan Gera's fierce effort from 30 yards following a neat piece of build-up play from Etuhu and Zamora had Stuart Tomlinson beaten – unfortunately his effort flew just wide of the top corner too.

It proved to be a sign of things to come as Gera opened the scoring for the Whites courtesy of a brave header from a Matthew Briggs cross on ten minutes. Briggs showed all of his pace to race on to a Damien Duff pass before producing a fine cross for Gera. The Hungarian headed firmly past Tomlinson but took a boot in the face for his trouble.

The goal looked to have drained the visitors of their early energy as the Whites proceeded to dominate for extended spells. The visitors occasionally managed to gain a foothold in the game and applied some decent pressure to Fulham's back line however, more often than not, Fulham were using the slippery surface to their advantage and sliding the ball around with ease.

Moussa Dembele doubled Fulham's lead and opened his account with a well-placed finish on 26 minutes. The attacker received the ball with is back to goal and proceeded to work the ball infield before drilling a low shot inside Tomlinson's right hand post.

Bobby Zamora made it three soon after when he linked up well with Zoltan Gera to fire the ball in from a near impossible angle. Zamora set the move in motion, stepping over a pass and allowing Gera to play a cute pass into the striker's path.

Zamora returned the favour just before the interval when he rolled the ball into Gera's feet, allowing the Hungarian international to spin and fire a shot into the top corner.

Dembele's involvement ended at half-time as he was replaced by Clint Dempsey. The American was straight into the thick of the action, stinging Tomlinson's palms with a strong shot from the edge of the area.

Matthew Briggs' evening ended on 55 minutes when the young defender was replaced by Stephen Kelly. Briggs went off to a round of applause following a confident showing. Fulham's final change of the night followed, with Jonathan Greening replacing Etuhu.

The pace dropped somewhat in the second-half but Fulham remained comfortably on top. Clint Dempsey forced a smart save from Tomlinson after he was played in by Zamora and Duff saw his effort fly just wide of the post as Fulham threatened to make it five.

Dempsey cheekily attempted to produce a near replica of his dramatic chipped goal against Juventus on 64 minutes – but Tomlinson was able to gather with relative ease.

Zamora grabbed his second of the night on 66 minutes when he placed a left footed free kick beyond Tomlinson.

Then Clint Dempsey made it six for Fulham after he exchanged passes with Gera on the edge of the Port Vale penalty area before hammering an unstoppable effort into the net.



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Port Vale Photo Special

Wednesday 25th August 2010




http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/PortValePhotoSpecial.aspx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/PortValePhotoSpecial.aspx)

Hughes Happy with Cup Victory


Wednesday 25th August 2010


Fulham FC News

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Speaking after Wednesday evening's emphatic Carling Cup victory over Port Vale at the Cottage, Fulham Manager Mark Hughes spoke of his satisfaction at the outcome.

"It is important after games like this to make the headlines for the right reasons and we have done that because we approached it in the correct manner," said Hughes.

"We showed the competition the respect it deserves and I was really pleased with what we produced.

"There were some outstanding goals and some great finishes. There some really good progressive play and that augurs well for the future.

"I didn't want to make too many changes. It is early in the season and not the time of year to be resting players."

Hughes opted to start with Academy graduate Matthew Briggs at left-back and the defender certainly didn't let his Manager down – putting in an accomplished display.

"I felt it was an opportunity to have a look at him [Briggs]. I am trying to see what we have got in terms of quality," Hughes explained.

"He is a young man I haven't seen a great deal of. I have been impressed in training and he acquitted himself really well. He was instrumental in the first goal with a great cross and he did himself no harm tonight."
.

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/HughesPortValeReaction.aspx#ixzz0xfLaGbrr (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/HughesPortValeReaction.aspx#ixzz0xfLaGbrr)

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/aug/25/fulham-port-vale-match-report


Bobby Zamora leads Fulham's rout of Port Vale   

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Dominic Fifield at Craven Cottage guardian.co.uk,

Wednesday 25 August 2010 22.21 BST


Fulham smoothed their passage into the third round of the Carling Cup while appearing also to pave the way for Paul Konchesky to be reunited with Roy Hodgson at Liverpool. That sale should soon be sanctioned after the Londoners agreed a fee of about £2m with PSV Eindhoven for the Mexico full-back Carlos Salcido as a replacement.

The 30-year-old was impressive at the World Cup finals and Mark Hughes will hope to complete his transfer ahead of the weekend trip to Blackpool. Konchesky, who has 12 months to run on his contract and has expressed a desire to leave, is now likely to rejoin the former Fulham manager on Merseyside even if Hughes, publicly at least, remained coy on that subject.

"It's not a foregone conclusion that Konchesky goes just because we're looking to bring someone else in," Hughes said after confirming that the club's chief executive Alistair Mackintosh was in talks with PSV over Salcido. "We're looking for quality in all positions, and we're a little light at left-back. But I hope something will happen with Salcido."

With Konchesky, the twice-capped England defender, not involved here, the youngster Matthew Briggs excelled in his place. The hopes of the Port Vale manager Micky Adams to make his own impression on his return to Craven Cottage were drowned in a deluge and a flood of Fulham goals.

The tie had been settled by the interval, Zoltan Gera bursting away from Louis Dodds early on to head Briggs' looped cross through static defenders and into the far corner. The Hungarian added a second in first-half stoppage time, by which time Vale had long since been swept away.

Moussa Dembélé, on his first start since a £5m move from AZ Alkmaar, had skimmed in a second with Bobby Zamora, excellent again, battering a wonderful third from a ridiculously tight angle with Stuart Tomlinson utterly helpless in the visitors' goal. Adams once bought the England striker for Brighton but watched him run riot here. Zamora's second, curled beyond a defensive wall, was quickly followed by further reward for Clint Dempsey. "As soon as we saw the teamsheet we knew we were in trouble," said Adams. "The place is unrecognisable from when I managed here. There are even tiles in the bathroom now. And hot water." That was scant consolation for this thrashing.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6337978,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6337978,00.html)

Adams - Cottagers too good


Vale boss feared worst; Hughes impressed with Briggs debut


Last updated: 25th August 2010   


Micky Adams admitted Port Vale were facing an uphill battle from the outset of their Carling Cup battering by Fulham.

Adams, a former Fulham boss, was given a rousing reception from the Craven Cottage fans but the generosity ended there as the Premier League side smashed their inferior opponents 6-0 to reach the third round.

Cottagers boss Mark Hughes only made three changes from Sunday's 2-2 draw against Manchester United, with Matthew Briggs and £5million summer signing Moussa Dembele both making their first starts for the club.

Zoltan Gera also came into the side and all three had a significant impact as Fulham outclassed the League Two side.

Hungarian Gera and Bobby Zamora scored twice each and there were goals for Dembele and his replacement Clint Dempsey.

Adams knew his side would be up against it the moment he saw confirmation of the Fulham team.

Trouble
"As soon as we saw the team sheet we knew we would be in trouble," said Adams.

"A lot of the Premier League clubs last night made wholesale changes. Fulham for their own reasons picked their first team and it was always going to difficult.

"But we are disappointed. I think we are better than we showed tonight but we couldn't get near Fulham. They had pace and movement and it was too much for us.

"They are real athletes which is why they play at this level. We will lick our wounds and get on with it.

"I came back here with Brentford and Leicester. I think this is my first defeat since coming back.

"The place is unrecognisable from the one I first managed. There are even tiles in the bathroom and hot water."


Instrumental
Hughes, who also revealed his interest in signing PSV Eindhoven defender Carlos Salcido, was impressed with left-back debutant Briggs.

"I felt it was an opportunity to have a look at him (Briggs)," said Hughes. "I am trying to see what we have got in terms of quality.

"He is a young man I haven't seen a great deal of. I have been impressed in training and he acquitted himself really well.

"He was instrumental in the first goal with a great cross and he did himself no harm tonight."

http://www.skysports.com/football/match_report/0,19764,11065_3312284,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/football/match_report/0,19764,11065_3312284,00.html)


Cottagers crush Port Vale


Gera and Zamora both score twice


Last updated: 25th August 2010

   
Mark Hughes savoured his first win as Fulham manager after watching his team hammer Port Vale 6-0 in the second round of the Carling Cup.

Fresh from back-to-back draws in the Premier League, Hughes' side were in devastating mood to ensure it was a miserable return to Craven Cottage for former Fulham boss Micky Adams.

Zoltan Gera marked his return to the starting line-up with the opening goal on 10 minutes before new signing Moussa Dembele grabbed his first goal in Cottagers colours.

Bobby Zamora weighed in with the third on 36 minutes and Hungarian midfielder Gera added another in first-half stoppage-time.

New England cap Zamora scored his second of the night on 66 minutes and it was left to substitute Clint Dempsey to round off the scoring 20 minutes from time.

While many top-flight sides name weakened teams at this early stage of the competition, Hughes made just three changes from Sunday's 2-2 draw with Manchester United.

Eye-catching debut
Dembele came into the side along with Gera and left-back Matthew Briggs, who enjoyed an eye-catching full debut before being substituted to a standing ovation after an hour.

Briggs had clearly been given a licence to attack and it was his tenacity which created the opening goal for Gera after 10 minutes.

The 19-year-old tore down the left wing before floating a deep cross into the box, where Gera stole in front of the defender to head Fulham into the lead.

Gera took a boot to the face for his troubles but the goal settled Fulham, who had made an uncertain start at the back.

Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale, who saved Nani's penalty at the weekend, was beaten to Sean Rigg's cross but Adam Yates' header deflected out for a corner.

Gary Roberts picked out Port Vale striker Justin Richards with a lofted pass into the box but Fulham eventually scrambled the ball clear - and almost immediately took a 2-0 lead.

Dembele worked space for himself on the edge of the Port Vale box before unleashing a fierce strike, which goalkeeper Stuart Tomlinson did well to block.

But that was just a range-finder from the Belgian. Dembele then cut in from the right flank and unleashed a low left-footed drive which beat Tomlinson and went in off the far post.

Fulham were cruising now. Briggs was a constant thorn in Port Vale's side and he almost picked out Dembele with a driven cross to the far post.

Damian Duff turned the ball back into the box for Zamora who volleyed goalwards from six yards but straight at Tomlinson.

It was not long, though, until the England striker got his goal as Fulham passed their way slickly through the visitors' defence.

Zamora let Briggs' pass run for Gera and then darted into the box to take the return ball and rifle his shot from an acute angle into the roof of the net.


Intensity
Vale could not live with the pace or the intensity of Fulham's constant raids and they stood off Gera, allowing the Hungarian to turn in the box and beat Tomlinson with a rising shot.

Fulham sent on Dempsey for Dembele at half-time and Port Vale's defence barely had any respite. Zamora escaped down the right and then squared the ball for Dempsey, whose powerful drive was well stopped by Tomlinson.

Visiting captain Marc Richards was guilty of an air shot as the ball fell to him in the box. Port Vale substitute Abdulai Bell-Baggie then linked neatly with Justin Richards but neither could get a shot away.

Fulham kept pouring forward. Dempsey forced a near-post save from Tomlinson before attempting a repeat of his wonder strike against Juventus but the goalkeeper was alert to the chip.

Duff flashed a shot across goal that went just wide but Zamora's radar was more finely tuned.

After being bundled to the ground 22 yards out, Zamora picked himself off the sodden turf to curl the free-kick round the wall and past Tomlinson's despairing dive.

Dempsey then rammed home Fulham's sixth from the same distance after being teed up by Gera, a strike greeted by chants of "easy, easy" from the home end.

Vale's travelling supporters responded with "we only want one goal" but their side were denied by Stockdale, who blocked Richards' shot at point-blank range.

http://www.skysports.com/football/user_ratings/0,19768,11065_3312284,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/football/user_ratings/0,19768,11065_3312284,00.html)

Fulham Player ratings 


Player Our Rating Your Rating Rate player

David Stockdale  0 6.1  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Brede Hangeland  0 7.0  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Aaron Hughes  0 5.7  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Matthew Briggs  0 6.1  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
John Pantsil  0 5.6  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Danny Murphy  0 5.7  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Dickson Etuhu  0 5.4  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Moussa Dembele  0 6.9  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Bobby Zamora  0 7.9  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Damien Duff  0 5.4  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Zoltan Gera  0 8.8  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Stephen Kelly
(Sub)  0 5.1  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Jonathan Greening
(Sub)  0 5.3  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 
Clint Dempsey
(Sub)  0 6.2  Rate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 

http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/150864/Fulham-cruise-through-Port-Vale-but-want-Salcido-soon/ (http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/150864/Fulham-cruise-through-Port-Vale-but-want-Salcido-soon/)

FULHAM CRUISE THROUGH PORT VALE BUT WANT SALCIDO SOON

26th August 2010

By Sami Mokbel


Fulham 6 -- Port Vale 0

FULHAM want to clinch a £2m deal for PSV ­Eindhoven left-back ­Carlos Salcido as Paul Konchesky edges closer to joining Liverpool.

Mark Hughes' men cruised into the Carling Cup third round at a soggy Craven Cottage.

But the absence of Konchesky was the main talking point after Kop boss Roy Hodgson admitted he is keen on signing the defender.

Hughes said: "We've made enquiries about Salcido but I don't know how far down the line we are.

"But that does not ­necessarily mean Paul is going to Liverpool."

Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora both scored twice last night, with Moussa Dembele and Clint Dempsey also on target.


Port Vale manager Micky Adams – who managed Fulham to ­promotion from the Third Division in 1997 – said: "As soon as we saw the team sheet, I knew we were in ­trouble."

http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/08/carling_cup_2nd_rd_fulham_6_po.php (http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/08/carling_cup_2nd_rd_fulham_6_po.php)


Carling Cup 2nd Rd: Fulham 6 Port Vale 0

Posted by Phil Mison 1 hour, 51 minutes ago


Six pack Fulham tear Port Vale apart as the rain pours down at the Cottage. Warm appreciation for the returning Mickey Adams from the H block 'choir' and all credit to his side, who tried to play the game in the right manner. But Fulham on the night - unstoppable!

Maybe it was the sight of Adams in the dug out, but it felt like a throwback of ten years for Wednesday night's Carling Cup romp. Easy parking a short walk from the ground, a quick trot up to the turnstiles to pay at the gate, and once inside the Hammy End the freedom to sit where you like. For the record I was 10 rows back (just under the roof as the rain hammered down without mercy) and right behind the goal. There were three other fans in my row from a crowd under 10,000 and not one single body in my sightline between my seat and the four fabulous 1st half goals that rippled the net 10 metres in front of me.

It was fantastic! Gera's brave header from young Matthew Briggs excellent cross. The 19-year-old making his first start in place of Paul Konchesky (so we all know where he's heading). Moussa Dembele fizzing one into the bottom corner with an 18 yard cross shot. Bobby Z hammering into the roof of the net from the tightest of angles, and Gera again finding space to spin and ping a shot home off the crossbar on the stroke of half time.

Yes, Mark had made the decision to start Zoltan ahead of Demps. But on came the Yank for Dembele in the 2nd half. Not only did he notch the 6th with a fierce drive, he ran, hustled and posed a constant threat like a man desperate to make a point. Bobby stroked home an impeccable 2nd on the night with his left foot from a free-kick, and white shirts were only guilty of getting in each others way in the box as Vale could easily have shipped 10. Murphy, Duff and Gera all blazing wide from great positions.

I have yet to check the match stats, but it felt like 25 on target efforts against one real save required from the untroubled Stockdale.

Even this early into his reign, it's easy to see that Hughes - who hinted as much in his post-match interview - has added an edge to Fulham's fluent passing game. Yes, it was only Port Vale, but six goals of quality, no gifts, and all from offensive players.

More than a year since our last away win in the Prem? Blackpool here we come!

Liverpool and Barca to compromise at £20m for Mascherano

Published 23:00 25/08/10


By David Anderson



Liverpool and Barcelona are moving towards a £20m compromise fee for Mascherano, although Hodgson claims he will pick him against West Brom if he is still on Merseyside.

"He isn't here because the negotiations are on-going between the two clubs," said Hodgson. "If he played here it might prejudice the transfer and I don't wish to do anything like that.

"But going into the game on Sunday, I'm entitled to have the player available for selection if he is still a ­Liverpool player."

Hodgson also confirmed Liverpool are in talks with his old club Fulham over a £3m deal for left-back Paul Konchesky.

"We have had discussion with Fulham, but it's by no means certain they are prepared to sell," he said. "But I'd be lying if I said we haven't considered Paul."



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Hughes eager to tie up Salcido deal


Published 23:21 25/08/10


By Pa Sports

Fulham manager Mark Hughes is hoping to complete the signing of Mexico left-back Carlos Salcido before the transfer window closes.

Reports stated that Fulham have agreed a fee with PSV Eindhoven for the 30-year-old, who played at this summer's World Cup.

"We have made enquiries," said Hughes. "He is a player I am interested in and we are hopeful it might be concluded."

Hughes insisted their pursuit of Salcido does not automatically mean that Fulham's current left-back Paul Konchesky will be on the move.

Konchesky has been linked with a move to Liverpool, where he would link up again with former Fulham manager Roy Hodgson.

"We are looking to have quality in all positions. Left back is a position we are a little light in," said Hughes.

"It is not a foregone conclusion that Paul Konchesky goes because we are looking to bring someone else in."



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Hughes-eager-to-tie-up-Salcido-deal-article564241.html#ixzz0xfY2EySM (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Hughes-eager-to-tie-up-Salcido-deal-article564241.html#ixzz0xfY2EySM)
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Blackpool goal hero Harewood doubtful for historic first Premier League home game


Published 23:00 25/08/10


By James Nursey


Blackpool hero Marlon Harewood is a doubt for their historic first Premier League home match against Fulham on Saturday.

Striker Harewood, 31, signed on a free after leaving Aston Villa, netted twice in the shock win at Wigan on the opening day.

He kept his place for the trip to Arsenal where the 10-man Seasiders lost 6-0.

But Harewood was missing from the defeat to MK Dons in midweek in the Carling Cup after tweaking his hamstring.

Harewood is having treatment on the injury but may now also miss the club's first Premier League home game.

The forward is definitely expected to return fully fit against Newcastle on Saturday September 11 after the international break.



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Fulham 6-0 Port Vale: Daily Mirror match report

Published 23:05 25/08/10

By Massimo Marioni


Mark Hughes confirmed Fulham are closing in on a deal to bring in Carlos Salcido from PSV.

The Mexican left-back is believed be a direct replacement for Liverpool-bound Paul Konchesky, who was left out of a strong Fulham squad for their Carling Cup rout of Port Vale, along with Arsenal target Mark Schwarzer.

"We've made enquires (about Salcido) and I'm not sure how far down the line we are, but hopefully that's something that can be concluded. It's not a forgone conclusion that Konchesky is leaving because we want quality all over the park," said Hughes.

Any absentee's in the Fulham line-up though were quickly forgotten as the Premier League side ruthlessly exposed the gulf in class between themselves and the League Two outfit.

On a torrential night Bobby Zamora was almost unplayable, and new £5million signing Moussa Dembele looked a real coup for Hughes as he capped an impressive full debut with a goal.

"Its important on nights like this to make the headlines for the right reasons and we've done that because we've approached it in the right manner and shown the competition the respect it deserves.

"They tried to play the right way but on the night we just had a bit too much quality for them," continued Hughes.

It was certainly no happy return to west London for Micky Adams' men who dismantled QPR in the last round, but more like a return to Alcatraz, as they were imprisoned in their own half for the majority of the match.

Vale were given a mountain to climb even before the first whistle when Hughes laid down a marker for the competition by making only three changes to the side that drew with Manchester United at the weekend.

In came Dembele, 19-year-old left-back Matthew Briggs, and Zoltan Gera, but if Vale were hoping these players who be the chink in Fulham's armour they were sadly mistaken.

Gera took just ten minutes to open the scoring when he bravely connected with a diving header from Briggs's cross after he chased down and delivered a seemingly lost cause.

Dembele then doubled the lead on 25 minutes when his stinging drive from 20-yards found the inside of Stuart Tomlinson's far post, and Zamora got his just rewards for a fine display eleven minutes later.

His clever dummy ran through to Gera who played through the England international to rasp into the top corner from nearly an impossible angle.

Zamora then returned the favour deep into first-half stoppage time, feeding in Gera who spun and curled a delighted shot in off the bar.

Zamora got his second on 66 minutes when he effortlessly stroked in a free-kick, and Clint Dempsey rounded off the scoring twenty minutes from time with a pile driver on the edge of the box.

Fulham fans sang "England's number one" to their redundant goalkeeper David Stockdale, probably in a bid to keep him awake more than anything else, but it was former Whites manager Micky Adams and his Vale players that could probably do with the sleep after this nightmare at the Cottage.

"As soon as we saw the teamsheet we knew we were in trouble," bemoaned Adams.

"I think we're better than what we've shown tonight individually and collectively, but we couldn't get near Fulham.

"Their pace their movement - they're real athletes and that's why they're at this level, so we'll lick our wounds and get on with it.

"The pace is unrecognizable since I was here. There's even tiles in the bathroom its great.

"I remember Uri Geller came here when we were struggling, and we only had one spoon but he bent it and broke it in half - we were gutted."

He definately could have done with that kind of magic last night.



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-6-0-Port-Vale-Cottagers-hit-Port-Vale-for-six-and-close-in-on-Carlos-Salcido-transfer-from-PSV-Daily-Mirror-match-report-article564231.html#ixzz0xfYRtEEo (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-6-0-Port-Vale-Cottagers-hit-Port-Vale-for-six-and-close-in-on-Carlos-Salcido-transfer-from-PSV-Daily-Mirror-match-report-article564231.html#ixzz0xfYRtEEo)
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http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/8939681.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/8939681.stm)

Fulham   6 - 0   Port Vale


Fulham were rampant against Vale at a sodden Craven Cotage

Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora both scored twice as Fulham eased into the third round of the Carling Cup at the expense of League Two Port Vale.

Gera headed Fulham ahead before new signing Moussa Dembele marked his debut with a goal after a left-foot strike.

Zamora finished from an acute angle before Gera added a fourth before the break, with a strike from 18 yards.

The fifth came from a curling Zamora free-kick, while Clint Dempsey finished the scoring with a long-range strike.

Vale almost pulled a goal back in the latter stages, but Marc Richards's close-range strike was saved by Stuart Tomlinson.

And earlier in the tie Gary Roberts had picked out striker Justin Richards with a lofted pass into the box, but Fulham managed to clear the danger.

Nonetheless, Fulham, with three changes from the side that drew with Manchester United, might have scored more than six.

Dembele went close prior to scoring with a low strike from the edge of the box that Tomlinson did well to save.

Matthew Briggs impressed at left-back on his full debut - providing the cross from which Gera headed his opening goal and, later, almost picking out Dembele at the far post.

Zamora had a volley from six yards smothered by Tomlinson, who also made two good saves from Dempsey as the Premier League side repeatedly cut open their opponents.

http://thegamesgonecrazy.blogspot.com/2010/08/go-for-gera.html (http://thegamesgonecrazy.blogspot.com/2010/08/go-for-gera.html)

Go for Gera!

Apparently Zoltan Gera is unhappy at Fulham; if so, we should seize the opportunity and buy him! Gera offers exactly what we are looking for, an attacking midfielder with an eye for goal.

Gera has netted 76 club goals so far and a further 18 at full international level. He isn't Frank Lampard, but he is as close as we are going to get given what we can afford. At 31, he is not young, but then Parker is no spring chicken either!

In Grant's shoes, I would offload Parker and bring in Gera, who scores more and is a much more creative midfielder than Mr Scurry Scurry Scotty Parker. Team Gera up with Noble and Der Hammer in centre mid, with Barrera and Piquionne as the wide men, and I think we would have an effective and potentially high scoring midfield unit.

How much would he cost? Can't be more than we sold Diamanti for surely?

Posted by Hammersfan at 16:03 

http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/08/a_fine_line.php (http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/08/a_fine_line.php)

A Fine Line

Posted by Phil Mison 9 hours, 26 minutes ago

If you need to understand football's passion that makes it the global game, creating more drama in 24 hours than a lifetime of Ian Fleming, examine the ramifications from two Premiership games within 24 hours this week. Fulham's pulsating draw with United and Liverpool's surrender to City.

Fulham drew all the positives from Sunday's encounter at the Cottage. The team spirit was tremendous, and but for a major aberration on the part of the officials, the Whites could easily have been celebrating their 3rd straight home win in this fixture. Last season Ferguson made much of the injury-depleted squad he had to field in December's 3-0 defeat. Admittedly for this game Rooney was absent with a bug, but he was on a 13 game goaless streak coming into the weekend.

A trawl of fans forums and United blogs reveals a rain of abuse falling upon the likes of O' Shea, Evans, Berbatov, Park, Nani and Valencia. Even this early in the season I sense an over-reliance on veterans Scholes and Giggs to somehow pull things around. With the age of megabucks transfers (a la Tevez) seemingly behind them, what does the future hold for Man U?

Make no bones about it. They remain a major force and a global brand, but with the debt servicing level last week climbing to a new high (who else spotted the story?) I sense the Glazers empire is slowly sinking into the Old Trafford foundations. After Sunday, I know which side of the fence I'd rather be cheering from.

So to Monday and City's demolition of Liverpool. Here in the space of 24 hours we had three contenders for the tag of 'England's Big 4' in action. With glaring deficiences all over the pitch moneybags City tore Liverpool apart and Roy may soon be reminded of life's maxim, 'Be careful what you wish for.' As I write his new team are flying to Turkey without Torres (rested) and Gerrard (injured). While Roy rode the rainbow with Fulham all the way last season, here his Liverpool side could be exiting the Europa League at just the 2nd hurdle.

So is Mark Hughes sitting smugly behind his desk this week optimistically plotting to bury Blackpool at the weekend? (a side coming off a 6-0 thrashing). You bet he's not. Want to know why managers, players, club CEO's are all in the supertax bracket? Stand still in football and you're a dead man. Before next week's transfer window slams shut, Hughes knows every minute will see him sweating on finalising more deals while fighting with every sinew to hang on to his current roster of talent.

Hot money, double dealing, blatant lying, beautiful women, mysterious foreigners, ruthless agents, hostile crowds and a relentless, baying press pack on your heels...James Bond wouldn't have lasted five minutes. That's football - and that's why we're hooked...

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/8944854.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/f/fulham/8944854.stm)


Fulham and PSV agree Carlos Salcido deal 


By John Sinnott 


Fulham have agreed a deal to sign Dutch club PSV Eindhoven's Mexico international left-back Carlos Salcido.

PSV told BBC Sport that the 30-year-old Salcido, who has also been linked with Liverpool, has still to agree personal terms in a move reportedly worth £1.6m.

Liverpool have been holding talks with Fulham over the possibility of signing their Fulham left-back Paul Konchesky.

Fulham boss Mark Hughes said: "It's not a foregone conclusion Paul goes because we're trying to bring someone else in."

PSV would not specify the length of the contract that Salcido had been offered by Fulham.

Earlier this week the London club confirmed the signing of 23-year-old Algerian defender Rafik Halliche from Benfica for an undisclosed fee.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/7964287/Fulham-6-Port-Vale-0-match-report.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/7964287/Fulham-6-Port-Vale-0-match-report.html)


Fulham 6 Port Vale 0: match report

Read a full match report of the Carling Cup game between Fulham and Port Vale at Craven Cotage on Wednesday Aug 25, 2010.

By Jeremy Wilson, Craven Cottage


Published: 10:01PM BST 25 Aug 2010


Sixy football: Clint Dempsey fires in Fulham's sixth goal at a sodden Craven Cottage Photo: ACTION IMAGES No competition has suffered more from the rise of the Premier League than the Carling Cup but, in Mark Hughes, it is refreshing to find at least one manager who still regards it as an opportunity rather than an irritation.

As a player, Hughes holds the distinction of winning it three times with three different clubs. As one of the most ambitious young British managers, his outlook has always been that it would be a valuable addition to his CV.

Fulham might only have dispatched League Two opposition in Port Vale, but it still felt like a statement of intent.

From the side that drew 2-2 with Manchester United on Sunday, there were only three changes and, in Matthew Briggs, Moussa Dembele and Zoltan Gera, Hughes had brought in a trio of players with a point to prove.

Briggs caught the eye, yet there was also something in the approach of the established players – men like Danny Murphy, Bobby Zamora, Brede Hangeland and Damien Duff – that showed they will treat the Carling Cup with the attitude they displayed in the Europa League last season.

Port Vale manager Micky Adams had reason to be thankful that the 6-0 scoreline was not more decisively in favour of Fulham on his return to Craven Cottage.

The goals were all of the highest quality. Gera had already seen one shot sail narrowly past Stuart Tomlinson's post before he bravely got his head in front of Louis Dodds to convert Briggs's cross.

Dembele, who was making his first start following a £5 million move from AZ Alkmaar, then brilliantly cut inside Lee Collins and Adam Yates before fizzing his shot across the wet floor and inside Tomlinson's post.

Murphy had been particularly influential in the centre of midfield and duly split Port Vale's defence for Zamora to finish emphatically from the most narrow of angles. Zamora was the provider for Gera, who turned and shot beyond Tomlinson on the stroke of half-time. The second-half came to resemble a training exercise but still there was no mercy from Fulham.

Zamora scored his second and Fulham's fifth with a powerful free-kick before the rout was completed by Clint Dempsey with yet another excellent finish.

Fulham 6 Port Vale 0: Cottagers join Super Six club against League Two minnows


By Ian Gibb

Last updated at 12:20 AM on 26th August 2010



Micky Adams was given an ovation from all parts of Craven Cottage as a well-loved former Fulham manager - and then watched in horror as his team were torn apart.

Vale were swept away with two goals from Bobby Zamora, two from Zoltan Gera plus strikes from new £5million signing Moussa Dembele and Clint Dempsey.

Testing conditions: Fulham coped far better than their lowly opponents with the lashing rain in west London
Adams said: 'As soon as we saw the team sheet we knew we were in trouble. 'Lots of Premier League clubs make changes in the Carling Cup but Fulham picked their first team.

'We are better than that but we couldn't get near them. Their passing and movement were too much for us. 'They are real athletes and that's why they are where they are. We'll lick our wounds and get on with it.'

The rout began in the 10th minute when Fulham's 18-year-old left back Matthew Briggs, on his full debut, produced a deep centre from the left and Gera headed firmly down, the ball bouncing inside the left post.

Bow: Fulham's Moussa Dembele grabbed a goal on his debut
It was 2-0 on 25 minutes when Dembele tried a snap shot that bounced out of Vale keeper Stuart Tomlinson's hands.

Dembele had another go, this time finding the bottom left corner of the net. It was all over as a contest on 36 minutes when Briggs again started a move on the left for Gera to put in Zamora, who fired an angled shot into the far right corner of the net.Then just before the interval Hungary star Gera ripped a shot against the bar and into the net.

Zamora stroked a perfect free kick from just outside the area into the far left corner of the net for 5-0 on 66 minutes and three minutes later Dempsey exchanged passes with Gera before scoring with ease.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306137/Fulham-6-Port-Vale-0-Cottagers-join-Super-Six-club-League-Two-minnows.html#ixzz0xfaa2ib6 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306137/Fulham-6-Port-Vale-0-Cottagers-join-Super-Six-club-League-Two-minnows.html#ixzz0xfaa2ib6)

Fulham eye £2.5m defender Carlos Salcido as Liverpool step up bid for Paul Konchesky

By Sportsmail Reporter

Last updated at 12:59 AM on 26th August 2010


Fulham are close to agreeing a £2.5million deal for Mexico international Carlos Salcido from PSV Eindhoven.

Manager Mark Hughes made his move for the 30-year-old defender after Liverpool stepped up their interest in Fulham full back Paul Konchesky.

Although Wigan have also expressed fresh interest in Salcido, 30, Birmingham have dropped out of the chase leaving the deal to Fulham close to completion.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306171/Carlos-Salcido-set-sign-Fulham-Liverpool-step-bid-Paul-Konchesky.html#ixzz0xfatGTh9 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306171/Carlos-Salcido-set-sign-Fulham-Liverpool-step-bid-Paul-Konchesky.html#ixzz0xfatGTh9)

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/25/fulham-crush-port-vale-in-six-goal-triumph-82029-27139667/ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/25/fulham-crush-port-vale-in-six-goal-triumph-82029-27139667/)

Fulham crush Port Vale in six goal triumph


Aug 25 2010 By Alex Smith

Fulham 6-0 Port Vale Carling Cup, Round Two

It was raining goals at Craven Cottage as Fulham eased their way into the third round of the Carling Cup with a massive 6-0 win over Port Vale.

Goals from Moussa Dembele, Clint Dempsey and two each from Bobby Zamora and Zoltan Gera left Fulham fans singing in the rain on a wet night in SW6.

Fulham manager Mark Hughes, wary of an embarrassing slip up to lower league opposition, named a strong side featuring eight of the team who drew with Manchester United on Sunday. First starts were handed to new signing Moussa Dembele and 19 year-old defender Matthew Briggs with Zoltan Gera coming into midfield.

Ex-Fulham boss Micky Adams, now in charge of Port Vale, was given a warm reception from the home crowd, but if he was expecting any favours from his old club on the pitch, he was given a rude awakening after just ten minutes.

The floodgates were opened by Gera as he bravely leapt to meet Briggs' cross with a powerful header.

Dembele put the tie further from Vale's grasp on 26 minutes when opened his Fulham account with a left-footed shot from just outside the box.

10 minutes later Bobby Zamora brilliantly fired in a third from a tight angle, and an excellent half for Fulham was completed just before the break with Gera pirouetting in the Vale box before smashing in from 12 yards.

After the break, Vale tired to edge their way back into the game but shots from Justin Richards and Louis Dodds failed to trouble Fulham keeper David Stockdale.

At the other end of the pitch, the goals kept on coming with Zamora neatly finishing a free-kick from the edge of the box to collect his second in the 66th minute, and substitute Clint Dempsey fired a powerful shot from 20 yards to make it six just minutes later.

Fulham now march on to round three and with his first win as Fulham boss under his belt, Hughes will be hopeful for a successful run in the competition.

Fulham: Stokdale, Pantsil, Hangeland, Hughes, Briggs (Kelly 55), Gera, Murphy, Duff, Ethuhu (Greening 55), Zamora, Dembele (Dempsey 46)

Port Vale: Tomlinson, Yates (Taylor 13), Griffith (Bell-Baggie 46), McCombe, Owen, Dodds, M Richards, J Richards, Collins, Rigg, Roberts (Fraser 46)

Attendance: 9,031

http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/six-of-the-best-as-fulham-sweep-past-vale/ (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/six-of-the-best-as-fulham-sweep-past-vale/)

Six of the best as Fulham sweep past Vale

by Dan on August 25, 2010

In recent years, the early rounds of the League Cup have been a time for nerves and worry at Craven Cottage. Half-strength sides have succumbed to lower league ambition and the usual platitudes about concentrating on the league were trotted out afterwards by a succession of managers. Mark Hughes resisted the temptation to mess about with the side that showed such fortitude against Manchester United on Sunday, reckoning that the confidence gained from that draw would be best maintained by the safe negotiation of what might have been a tricky banana skin and a strong Fulham side rewarded him with a comfortable 6-0 win.

The three alterations to the side that matched Manchester United saw Matthew Briggs step in for Liverpool-bound Paul Konchesky at left back, Moussa Dembele make his first start in place of Clint Dempsey and Zoltan Gera replace Simon Davies. Both relative newcomers fully justified their selections. Briggs, highly thought of at Motspur Park since stepping off the bench with such calmness as sixteen year-old at Middlesbrough back in 2007, displayed such assurance during his hour on the pitch that it isn't too much of a stretch to see him as a long-term successor to Konchesky. The England under-19 international displayed a real appetite to attack from the off and delivered a teasing cross for Zoltan Gera to head the home side into a tenth minute lead. Dembele, impressive in a brief cameo on Sunday, had already extended Stuart Tomlinson in the Vale goal prior to doubling Fulham's lead with an angled drive from 20 yards that clipped the far post on the way in.

Former Fulham manager Micky Adams, afforded a rapturous reception on only his fourth return to Craven Cottage since being sacked at the start of Mohamed Al-Fayed's riverside reign didn't send his League Two side out to man the barracades. Having embarassed big-spending QPR in the first round, Vale had ambitions of causing another shock and had they had a little more luck in front of goal they might have capatilised on a lively start. David Stockdale failed to collect a Sean Rigg cross and Adam Yates' header was deflected wide. Only a desperate defensive scramble cleared the danger as Justin Richards bore down on goal, but once Fulham got their noses in front, Vale couldn't live with the Premier League side's sharper passing and swift tempo.

Dembele might have doubled his tally when Briggs floated over another inviting cross and Tomlinson did well to fist away a Zamora volley, but Fulham's third wasn't long in coming. Bobby Zamora, who was plucked from Bristol Rovers' reserves when Adams was in charge at Brighton & Hove Albion, cleverly dummied a Briggs pass before lashing a Gera ball into the far corner from an almost insanely tight angle at the near post. Gera added a fourth as half-time approached, taking full advantage of the amble space a hesistant Vale defence afforded him inside the box to chip Tomlinson with a little help from the underside of the crossbar.

Adams did manage to tighten things up in the second half which was played at a slower pace partly due to the torrential rain that swept across the ground. Tomlinson spread himself well to deny substitute Clint Dempsey and the American reprised his memorable chip against Juventus only for the Vale keeper to prove himself equal to the task of stopping it. The visitors had chances of their own but both Marc and Justin Richards failed to find enough room in which to fashion a shot.

Two late goals added made the scoreline more convincing for Fulham. First, Zamora expertly curled a free-kick around the wall into the far corner of the net from 23 yards and then Dempsey drilled a long-distance drive past Tomlinson to make it six. Vale, backed by a boisterous support of around 1,000 fans, kept playing until the end and deserved a goal that almost came their way after a defensive mix-up that saw Stockdale parry a Marc Richards' shot and Stephen Kelly hook the rebound to safety.

FULHAM (4-4-1-1): Stockdale; Pantsil, Briggs (Kelly 57), Hughes, Hangeland; Etuhu (Greening 57), Murphy, Gera, Duff; Dembele (Dempsey 45); Zamora. Subs (not used): Zuberbuhler, Baird, Riise, E. Johnson.

GOALS: Gera (1o, 45), Dembele (26), Zamora (36, 66), Dempsey (70).

PORT VALE (4-4-2): Tomlinson; Yates (R. Taylor 13), McCombe, Owen, Collins; Griffith (Bell-Baggie 45), Rigg, Roberts (Frazer 45), Dodds; J. Richards, M. Richards. Subs (not used): Martin, T. Taylor, Morsy, Malbon.

BOOKED: Rigg.

REFEREE: Andy Penn (West Midlands).

ATTENDANCE: 9,031

Newcastle defender Steven Taylor furious as Toon put him up for sale without telling him


By David Kent Last updated at 12:52 AM on 26th August 2010

Newcastle United have put Steven Taylor up for sale after contract talks with the central defender collapsed.

Taylor's deal ends at the end of the season and he had asked for a new contract worth about £45,000-a-week to stay with the club he joined as a schoolboy.

But Newcastle want to insert a clause which would see the defender's wages fall by £20,000 if they are relegated to the Championship.

Talks between the two sides have broken down, prompting the club to place him officially on the transfer list yesterday morning.

Taylor last night insisted he wants to stay but hit out at Newcastle for informing him of their decision 'through a third party'.

A statement released by his agents, Triple S, said: 'Figures released to the media today by Newcastle United do not accurately reflect the position of Steven and his agent. However, both are happy to continue negotiations over a new and extended contract at Newcastle.

'Steven's disappointed to learn he was placed on the transfer list through a third party. He has always given 100 per cent at Newcastle and will continue to do so given the opportunity.'

And last night manager Chris Hughton said he was hopeful Taylor would stay.

In Toon: Carroll netted a hat-trick as Newcastle beat Villa 6-0 on Sunday
After seeing his team beat Accrington Stanley 3-2 in the Carling Cup Hughton said: 'Talks have broken down but that is something we hope can be resolved. 'He is a player that we would like to keep and I think he would like to stay.

'These things are sent to test us but we are hoping an arrangement can be reached.'

The 24-year-old has been plotting his comeback from the shoulder injury which has kept him out of Newcastle's opening two Premier League fixtures and hopes to be ready for first-team action by the end of October.

Unless negotiations can be revived, Newcastle will look to off-load him either before Tuesday's transfer deadline or in the January transfer window.

When the club were relegated two years ago, several players did not have relegation clauses of the type which are now standard in contracts at Premier League clubs who are in danger of going down.

Aston Villa, Fulham, Everton and Liverpool have all previously expressed interest in Taylor and, with less than a year to run of his contract, Newcastle will ask for a fee of about £5million.

He has enjoyed a special bond with the Toon Army because he came through the club's youth ranks to establish himself as one of the leading young English defenders.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306041/Newcastle-defender-Steven-Taylor-transfer-list.html#ixzz0xfbukLqY (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306041/Newcastle-defender-Steven-Taylor-transfer-list.html#ixzz0xfbukLqY)

Portsmouth boss Steve Cotterill admits he may be forced to sell in-demand captain Marc Wilson

By Sportsmail Reporter


Last updated at 4:08 PM on 25th August 2010


Portsmouth manager Steve Cotterill admits Marc Wilson could be sold by the time he prepares his side for the visit of Cardiff City in the Championship on Saturday with Stoke the favourites for the Irishman's signature.

Pompey have already turned down two bids of £2.5m and £3m from West Bromwich Albion for the midfielder having previously insisted their captain was not for sale.
West Bromwich have came back on Tuesday and offered striker Luke Moore on top of their failed £3m offer but that again is not understood to be satisfactory to the south coast club.
Stoke, however, have entered the race and have offered striker Dave Kitson as part of a deal worth around £3.5m.

Fulham remain outsiders the club's chief scout Kit Symons  watched Wilson during Pompey's Carling Cup win over Crystal Palace on Tuesday night.

When asked if he expected Wilson to be available for selection on Saturday, Cotterill said: 'What's the chances of Marc being around for the weekend? It depends on what I get.

'There are a couple of clubs who are interested in Marc. 'There are good players at Stoke, but there are good players all around the Premier League.

'It's difficult but what do you do if someone comes in and gives you money and/or players? What do you do? I don't know the answer.

'Marc Wilson is a quality player, but maybe this football club is not in a position to say no.'

The Pompey boss also suggested he would be in the dark about if  Wilson was to go as the cash-strapped club is still in the hands of administrator Andrew Andronikou.

He added: 'There are a lot of things which go on at this club that I don't know about. Sometimes I find out later and that bugs me a bit.'


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306074/Portsmouth-boss-Steve-Cotterill-admits-forced-sell-demand-captain-Marc-Wilson.html#ixzz0xfcA04XC (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1306074/Portsmouth-boss-Steve-Cotterill-admits-forced-sell-demand-captain-Marc-Wilson.html#ixzz0xfcA04XC)

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/paul-parker/article/28071/


Paul Parker blog


Fulham point against United no surprise

(http://l.yimg.com/i/i/eu/sp/parke.gif)

Mon Aug 23 01:27PM


Fulham's point against another of my former clubs Manchester United did not come as any surprise at the weekend.

Craven Cottage is becoming a bit of a bogey ground for United, Fulham having won the pair's previous two league encounters there before the weekend's stalemate.

It can be a difficult place to go to. When it's sold out, it can be quite a good atmosphere and other big clubs may struggle there this season.

Mark Hughes's arrival at the Cottage will have helped too and the players will have wanted to give their all on his first game in charge at home.

I predicted a draw before the game, but after the first 25 minutes of play, I thought Fulham were heading for a mauling, with United looking so good.

But it didn't quite turn out like that, and Fulham got themselves back into the game before Hughes changed things around at half-time.

Sparky tightened things up at the break and the second half was a different story. They minimised the size of the areas United were playing in, thereby stopping Paul Scholes from playing his game and reducing his influence.

Without any space for United to play in, Fulham got a great deal of joy in the end.

Not least through Bobby Zamora, who put in a good performance, although I still don't think that, at the age of 29, he is the future of England's strike force, despite the increasing clamour for him to become so.

Zamora imposed himself on United's centre-back pairing of Nemanja Vidic and Jonny Evans, both of whom had their hands full in dealing with his power.

The form of Vidic in particular will have caused some concern for Alex Ferguson. To be honest, he has struggled to recover from that disastrous performance against Liverpool at Old Trafford two years ago.

He's lost his edge and he is definitely not the same commanding centre-half who first arrived at Old Trafford - and that was all too easily highlighted by Zamora at the weekend.

The absence of Rio Ferdinand is not helping United and Vidic's cause at the moment, but Evans deserves a decent run in the side, even if he looked a little shaky at Craven Cottage.

Already United find themselves a couple of points behind in the title race, with Chelsea's incredible scoring form looking very ominous.

The champions have been brilliant so far - forget about the quality of the sides they've played. West Brom and Wigan may not be the greatest teams ever, but while Chelsea were expected to take all six points from the two games, it has been the manner of victory that has so impressed.

They may well have been 'easy' games on paper, but Chelsea have gone out and beaten them well. Battered them.

To go and score six in each match, off the back of a storming finish to last season, gives Chelsea a certain sense of invincibility at the moment.

For sure, they'll be tested more against the bigger boys but so far they've done all that can be expected of them - and probably a little bit more.

It will be interesting to see how they cope at the back when faced with a team that can actually get through their incredibly strong midfield.

There are still big question marks over John Terry and time will tell just how much they will miss Ricardo Carvalho - for me their best central defender.

But for the time being, once again Chelsea are setting the standard in the Premier League.

http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/08/25/fulham-6-port-vale-0-micky-adams-hit-for-six-on-return-to-crave/ (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/08/25/fulham-6-port-vale-0-micky-adams-hit-for-six-on-return-to-crave/)


Fulham 6 Port Vale 0: Two Goals for Zoltan Gera in Carling Cup Stroll


25/8/2010 5:02 PM GMT

By Ben Hunt



Fulham cruised into the third round of the Carling Cup with an emphatic win over Port Vale.

This competition could be Fulham's best chance of winning silverware this season and manager Mark Hughes signalled their intent with his line-up to face the League Two side.

Aside from injured duo Mark Schwarzer and Paul Konchesky, it was a strong Fulham side that saw debuts for striker Moussa Dembele and 19-year-old defender Matthew Briggs.

And it was Briggs, who has been with the club since he was just eight-years-old, who crafted Fulham's opening goal in the 11th minute.

The left back surged down the wing and crossed for last season's Europa League hero Zoltan Gera who headed home past Stuart Tomlinson.

Fulham continued to press forward as Vale were forced back into their own half for long periods of the opening 45 minutes. And the pressure eventually told in the 26th minute when Belgium international Dembele made it 2-0 with a low shot from the edge of the box.

Bobby Zamora added a third in the 36th minute with a cute finish from a tight angle as Vale started sinking without a trace. And on the stroke of half-time Gera scored his second of the night with a shot on the turn that went in off the crossbar.

Things got even worse for Port Vale, managed by former Fulham manager Micky Adams when Zamora curled home a free-kick from 25-yards in the 66th minute.

Substitute Clint Dempsey rifled home a sixth goal four minutes later as Fulham showed no sign of easing up on their opponents. And Stephen Kelly came close to adding a seventh but his long-range effort was only narrowly off target.

REACTION:
Fulham manager Hughes was delighted with the win:
"It's important on nights like this that you make the headlines for the right reasons the next morning. We approached it in the right manner and I was really pleased with what we produced. Outstanding goals and progressive play - that all bodes well for the future."

On Briggs's debut:
"It was an opportunity for Briggs. It's early in the season and there are plenty of games to play, so it's not the time of the year to rest players, but it was an opportunity to look at the young boy to see what quality we have in the squad. He acquitted himself really well and I was pleased with him. He had a blow to his ankle, but he did himself no harm tonight."

On possibly signing left back Carlos Salcido from PSV:
"We've made enquiries. I don't know how far down the line we are. Alistair Mackintosh [Fulham CEO] is pursuing that, but he's a player who we're interested in. I hope something will happen with that."

On Konchesky leaving:
"Not necessarily. We're looking for quality in all positions. And we're a little light at left back. But it's not a foregone conclusion that Konchesky goes just because we're looking to bring someone else in."

Port Vale manager Adams knew his side were in for a hard match:
"As soon as we saw the team sheet we knew we were in trouble. Fulham, for their own reasons, decided to pick their first team so it was always going to be difficult. We played all right for 10 minutes but the people who know us also know we're better than we showed tonight, individually and collectively. We couldn't get near Fulham. Their pace and movement was too much for us. They're real athletes. That's why they're at this level."

On his return to Craven Cottage:
"I just look round the place and I'm in awe really. I haven't been back too often, other than with Brentford and Leicester.
The place is unrecognisable from the one where I first managed. There are even tiles in the bathroom now. And hot water. It's great. And a spoon, the famous spoon when Yuri Geller came. We only had one spoon and he broke it in half. We were struggling at the time."

WHAT IT MEANS:
Hughes has his first win as Fulham manager and they made it look easy, albeit against a team from League Two. The Cottagers are also into the Carling Cup third round - yet they have lost at that stage of the competition for the past three seasons. With no place for Konchesky and Schwarzer you have to wonder whether Fulham need them after this.For Port Vale it means they have to wait for the FA Cup to stand a chance of pulling off a giant killing. Follow Us on Twitter Friend Us on Facebook iPhone App - Get It Now
FULHAM 6 (Gera 11, 45, Dembele 26, Zamora 36, 66, Dempsey 70) PORT VALE 0

PLAYER MARKING:
Fulham (4-4-2): Stockdale 8; Pantsil 7, Hangeland 8, Hughes 8, Briggs 8 (Kelly 56, 7); Gera 9, Etuhu 7 (Greening 57, 7), Murphy 7, Duff 7; Zamora 8, Dembele 7 (Dempsey 46, 7).
Subs (not used): Zuberbuhler, Baird, Riise, Johnson.

Port Vale (5-3-2): Tomlinson 4; Yates 6 (Taylor 13, 5), McCombe 4, Collins 5, Owen 4, Dodds 5; Griffith 6 (Bell-Baggie 46, 6), Roberts 5 (Fraser 46, 6), Rigg 5; M. Richards 6, J. Richards 7.
Subs (not used): Martin, Taylor, Morsy, Malbon.

ATTENDANCE: 9,031

REFEREE: Andy Penn

NEXT UP:
- Fulham v Blackpool (away), Premier League, 28/08, 1500 BST
- Port Vale v Torquay (home), League Two, 28/08, 1500 BST

MAN OF THE MATCH:
Zoltan Gera (Fulham): The Hungarian striker was a real threat to Port Vale with his quick thinking and sharp shooting. He took his goals well, including a brave header in the first half that left him with a bloodied mouth. Manager Hughes would have been impressed.

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/premiership/carling-cup-fulham-fire-six-past-port-vale-14923668.html (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/premiership/carling-cup-fulham-fire-six-past-port-vale-14923668.html)

Carling Cup: Fulham fire six past Port Vale



Thursday, 26 August 2010


Fulham 6 Port Vale 0: Fulham enjoyed their own 6-0 victory as Mark Hughes' men cruised past Port Vale and into the third round of the Carling Cup.

Chelsea, Newcastle and Arsenal all hit six in the Barclays Premier League at the weekend and Fulham took advantage of a gulf in class to get in on the act tonight.

Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora scored twice each under torrential rain at Craven Cottage and Fulham's new £5million striker Moussa Dembele scored on his full debut for the club.

Clint Dempsey replaced Dembele at half-time and slammed home the sixth as Fulham boldly signalled their intent to the attack the Carling Cup.

While many top flight sides name weakened teams at this early stage of the competition, Hughes made just three changes from Sunday's 2-2 draw with Manchester United.

Dembele came into the side along with Gera and left-back Matthew Briggs, who enjoyed an eye-catching full debut before being substituted to a standing ovation after an hour.

Briggs had clearly been given a licence to attack and it was his tenacity which created the opening goal for Gera after 10 minutes.

The 19-year-old tore down the left wing before floating a deep cross into the box, where Gera stole in front of the defender to head Fulham into the lead.

Gera took a boot to the face for his troubles but the goal settled Fulham, who had made an uncertain start at the back.

Fulham goalkeeper David Stockdale, who saved Nani's penalty at the weekend, was beaten to Sean Rigg's cross but Adam Yates' header deflected out for a corner.

Gary Roberts picked out Port Vale striker Justin Richards with a lofted pass into the box but Fulham eventually scrambled the ball clear - and almost immediately took a 2-0 lead.

Dembele worked space for himself on the edge of the Port Vale box before unleashing a fierce strike, which goalkeeper Stuart Tomlinson did well to block.

But that was just a range-finder from the Belgian. Dembele then cut in from the right flank and unleashed a low left-footed drive which beat Tomlinson and went in off the far post.

Fulham were cruising now. Briggs was a constant thorn in Port Vale's side and he almost picked out Dembele with a driven cross to the far post.

Damian Duff turned the ball back into the box for Zamora who volleyed goalwards from six yards but straight at Tomlinson.

It was not long, though, until the England striker got his goal as Fulham passed their way slickly through the visitors' defence.

Zamora let Briggs' pass run for Gera and then darted into the box to take the return ball and rifle his shot from an acute angle into the roof of the net.

Vale could not live with the pace or the intensity of Fulham's constant raids and they stood off Gera, allowing the Hungarian to turn in the box and beat Tomlinson with a rising shot.

Fulham sent on Dempsey for Dembele at half-time and Port Vale's defence barely had any respite. Zamora escaped down the right and then squared the ball for Dempsey, whose powerful drive was well stopped by Tomlinson.

Visiting captain Marc Richards was guilty of an air shot as the ball fell to him in the box. Port Vale substitute Abdulai Bell-Baggie then linked neatly with Justin Richards but neither could get a shot away.

Fulham kept pouring forward. Dempsey forced a near-post save from Tomlinson before attempting a repeat of his wonder strike against Juventus but the goalkeeper was alert to the chip.

Duff flashed a shot across goal that went just wide but Zamora's radar was more finely tuned.

After being bundled to the ground 22 yards out, Zamora picked himself off the sodden turf to curl the free-kick round the wall and past Tomlinson's despairing dive.

Dempsey then rammed home Fulham's sixth from the same distance after being teed up by Gera, a strike greeted by chants of "easy, easy" from the home end.

Vale's travelling supporters responded with "we only want one goal" but their side were denied by Stockdale, who blocked Richards' shot at point-blank range.



Read more: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/premiership/carling-cup-fulham-fire-six-past-port-vale-14923668.html#ixzz0xfdkJmDB (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/premiership/carling-cup-fulham-fire-six-past-port-vale-14923668.html#ixzz0xfdkJmDB)

http://www.dailyexpress.co.uk/posts/view/195566/Fulham-flourish-in-the-rain/ (http://www.dailyexpress.co.uk/posts/view/195566/Fulham-flourish-in-the-rain/)

FULHAM FLOURISH IN THE RAIN  


Thursday August 26,2010


By Gideon Brooks 


FULHAM 6 PORT VALE 0

TORRENTIAL rain may have lashed Craven Cottage throughout this Carling Cup tie but Fulham could not have looked more comfortable easing past Port Vale last night had their League Two opposition been wearing Wellington boots.


Former Fulham favourite Micky Adams, who as manager in 1996 had started the club's rise from obscurity with promotion from the lowest division, was given a generous round of applause on his return to the club with his Port Vale team. However, such warmth ended with the opening whistle. Two goals each for Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora and one for new signing Moussa Dembele, who again looked bright after a cameo role against United last weekend, ensured their passage to the third round.

For Fulham's new manager Mark Hughes, this capped a promising start in the job which includes draws with Bolton and Manchester United in the Premier League and now a facile victory in his first cup. Hughes is clearly taking this competition seriously, he made just three changes from the side that drew with United on Sunday.

Gera opened the scoring when he got on to the end of a Matthew Briggs cross from the left after 10 minutes, with both players having a point to prove after missing out against United.

Dembele, a £5million signing from AZ Alkmaar last week, doubled the lead after 15 minutes after cutting across the edge of the box from the right flank and hitting a left-foot shot inside the far post. The Briggs-Gera combination was involved again in the move that brought Fulham's third for Zamora, while Gera further extended the lead before the half-time whistle with a rising shot that went in off the bar.

The hosts' first-half dominance allowed Hughes to rotate his team, but it did not release the pressure for Vale, who could offer no further resistance. They watched on helplessly as Zamora curled a free-kick from the edge of the box just after the hour, while substitute Clint Dempsey completed the scoring from similar range five minutes later.

Fulham 6 Port Vale 0


From VIKKI ORVICE at Craven Cottage

Published: 25 Aug 2010


FULHAM became the latest Premier League team to experience the joy of six.
Chelsea, Newcastle and Arsenal have already put six goals past opponents since the start of the season just over two weeks ago.

This time it was Fulham who ripped Port Vale apart with a similar scoreline to book their place in the third round of the Carling Cup, Bobby Zamora netting two of the goals to pile the misery on former mentor Micky Adams.

Vale boss Adams first signed a young Zamora while manager of Brighton and is widely credited with developing him as a player.

And it was Adams who kick-started the Fulham revolution, winning promotion from League Two after taking over as manager at Craven Cottage in February, 1996.

But last night Adams learned at first hand just how far Fulham have come on since those days, even if he did get a standing ovation from all sides of Craven Cottage.

New Fulham boss Mark Hughes made just three changes from the team that drew with Manchester United, giving starts to teenager Matthew Briggs and £5million signing Moussa Dembele as well as drafting in Zoltan Gera.

It was a sign he intended to take the competition seriously - and all three were instrumental in the demolition, Gera also scoring two goals.

Adams admitted: "As soon as we saw the teamsheet we knew we were in trouble. A lot of Premier League teams made wholesale changes this week but Fulham decided to pick their first team.

"We're disappointed because we are better than this. We couldn't get near Fulham with their pace.

"When I look at the place now I'm in awe. It is unrecognisable from my days here, there are even tiles in the bathroom now and hot water. That shows how much it's moved on!"

Briggs, from South London, became the youngest player in the Premier League when he came off the bench against Middlesbrough in May 2007 at the age of 16 years and 65 days.


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After being handed his first senior start at left-back last night he set up the opening goal for Gera, who headed the ball in past Vale keeper Stuart Tomlinson. Fulham were up and running, slicing through the League Two side's defence with ease. In the 26th minute Belgian striker Dembele found Gera's pass, netting with a low left-foot shot.

Ten minutes later Briggs linked up with Gera to supply Zamora whose left-foot effort flew past Tomlinson.

Vale's best chance came just after the half-hour only for Sean Rigg's left-foot shot to go wide of goalkeeper David Stockdale, again standing in for the wantaway Mark Schwarzer.

But Zamora was soon in action again, crossing to Gera who turned past two defenders to score seconds before half-time.

Zamora then netted his second from a free-kick which Lee Collins was unable to clear off the line.

And Clint Dempsey then came off the bench to score Fulham's sixth from the edge of the box.

Hughes said: "I thought it was a great performance, outstanding goals, great finishes and progressive play.

"Six goals just seems to be the common thing at the moment. I don't know why. But in fairness to Port Vale they tried to play. We just had too much quality for them so it was always going to be difficult.

"I didn't want to make too many changes - it's not the time of the year to rest players."

DREAM TEAM RATINGS

STAR MAN - Bobby Zamora

Fulham: Stockdale 6, Pantsil 6, Hangeland 6, Hughes 6, Briggs 7 (Kelly 6), Gera 8, Murphy 7, Etuhu 6 (Greening 6), Duff 6, Zamora 8*, Dembele 7 (Dempsey 7). Subs Not Used: Zuberbuhler, Baird, Riise, Eddie Johnson.

DIRK KUYT has stunned Liverpool by admitting: I want out.
The Dutch star is desperate to join his old Kop boss Rafa Benitez at Inter Milan in a £13million move.

But new Anfield manager Roy Hodgson rapped Benitez for reneging on an agreement not to poach his old favourites.  Kuyt's agent Rob Jansen said: "The clubs continue to talk but Dirk has told Liverpool he no longer wants to be involved as this is something that regards his career and life.

"It doesn't mean he wants to leave at all costs but when a club like Inter comes along it's normal to look into it further."

Hodgson is already facing a losing battle to hang on to Javier Mascherano, with Inter faxing a £20million offer yesterday and Barcelona also in the hunt.

And the new Anfield boss blasted: "When Benitez left the club he signed an agreement that he would not poach players from Liverpool and I think that still applies.

"As far as I'm concerned, the agreement with Inter president Massimo Moratti still stands.

"We have not received an offer from any club for Dirk Kuyt, this is obviously something going on behind the scenes with the agent talking to possibly the manager of Inter.

"Two things. One, we don't welcome an offer and two, we haven't received an offer.

"At this late stage in the transfer window it would be remarkably unusual for us to accept an offer for a player we don't want to leave for money we don't need.

"I need the player, not the money. We have not received an offer and Dirk hasn't told me he'd want to leave if one came in."

Hodgson left Mascherano out of the defeat at Manchester City and he is not involved against Trabzonspor tonight.

Hodgson conceded Barcelona are favourites to land the Argentine. He added: "I don't want to force him on to the field that might make his transfer difficult. On Sunday I'll know one way or another if he's going to be here or at Barcelona."

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/26082010/58/premier-league-match-facts-blackpool-v-fulham.html (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/26082010/58/premier-league-match-facts-blackpool-v-fulham.html)

Premier League - Match facts: Blackpool v Fulham

Opta - Thu, 26 Aug 02:30:00 2010

 
All the key facts and stats ahead of Blackpool's Premier League clash with Fulham at Bloomfield Road.


Fulham have won six of the last seven league meetings with Blackpool.

Blackpool are unbeaten in their last nine home games.

Fulham have won none of their last 19 Premier League away matches.

The Londoners have only scored one goal in their last 10 Premier League games on the road.

Since the start of 2008/09, Fulham have lost more games (five) to newly-promoted sides in the Premier League than they have won (four).

Newly-promoted teams have won six of their last eight opening home games in the Premier League.

Bobby Zamora has created the joint most shooting chances in the Premier League this season (nine).

Blackpool have won only one of their last six home games against Fulham, losing four.

11% of the goals Fulham conceded last season were own goals, the highest proportion in the top flight.

Blackpool's three games this season in all competitions have seen 17 goals scored.

Opta

http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/er-no-port-vale-wont-be-semifinalists.html (http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/er-no-port-vale-wont-be-semifinalists.html)

Er, No, Port Vale won't be semifinalists

By: timmyg | August 25th, 2010

Not after tonight's 6-0 thrashing they won't. But that still doesn't mean our next opponent (announced Saturday) can't though!

Nonetheless, not too much to say about tonight's game other than it was completely dominated by Fulham throughout. Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora each scored twice, Clint Dempsey registered a goal, and newboy Demebele also got on the scoresheet. Honestly, I think the rain may have been more of a nuisance. But hey, at least it was wet t-shirt night at the Cottage!

Jeremy Wilson of The Telegraph put it best:

Fulham might only have dispatched League Two opposition in Port Vale, but it still felt like a statement of intent.

It did feel so with a basically full strength starting line up. Then, when victory became quite evident, even Eddie Johnson didn't see any playing time. As I tweeted earlier (yes, I'm on twitter): I wouldn't read too much into EJ's exclusion as Sparky really wanted to win this. Let's compare today's starting line up with the ones seen in the past three seasons at our opening stage:

Today: Stockdale; JP, Briggs (Kelly 57), Hughes, Hangeland; Etuhu (Greening 57), Murphy, Gera, Duff; Dembele (Dempsey 45); Zamora. Subs not subs: Zuberbuhler, Baird, Riise, E. Johnson.

Last season at City: Stockdale; Stoor, Kelly, Smalling, Baird; Riise, Greening, Davies (Dikgacoi 71), Gera (Anderson 120); Seol Ki-Hyeon; E. Johnson (Elm 90). Subs not used: Zuberbuhler, Watts, Smith, Saunders.

Leicester in 2008: Schwarzer; Stoor, Hangeland, Hughes, Kallio; Davies, Bullard, Murphy, Gera; Zamora, Ki-Hyeon (Nevland 59). Subs Not Used: Zuberbuhler, Pantsil, Andranik, Dempsey, Andreasen, Baird

At Shrewsbury in 2007: Warner; Volz (Omozusi 79), Pearce, Bocanegra, Konchesky; Davies, Smertin, Davis, Dempsey; Healy (John 75), Kamara. Subs Not Used: Ricardo Batista, Diop, Watts.

Some fairly weakened lineups, excluding 2008. Yet, for what it's worth, in the next round of that season Roy named a lineup that featured Zuberbuhler (his only Fulham appearance), Andranik (his last), and Milsom (his first) in that 1-0 loss at Burnley.

Tonight sure wasn't the homecoming Micky Adams was looking for, but the great did receive a warm reception and rightfully so.

http://standupifyoustillbelieve.wordpress.com/ (http://standupifyoustillbelieve.wordpress.com/)
Fulham 6 Port Vale 0



On a miserable night in South West London, the decision to peel myself off my couch and trudge to Craven Cottage was rewarded with an accomplished performance and a flood of goals from the Whites.


Port Vale won the toss and elected to defend the Hammersmith end in the first half and forced the sides to swap ends before kick off to a smattering of boos. Maybe this is a small team's tactic to unsettle their hosts. I remember Notts County doing a similar thing in the FA Cup tie at the cottage last season.

I eventually took my seat after being gruffly urged to move by a bloke who claimed I was in his season seat. I didn't doubt that I was, but season ticket seats were only held until the week before kick off. I'd bought this spot in the Johnny Haynes stand online fair and square only because my season ticket in the Hammy End was sold from under my nose. As the game had kicked off I wasn't about to explain Fulham's ticketing policy to this bloke, I let him have "his" seat and was able to take my pick from one of the many empty seats on the night.

After the controversy surrounding Fulham's new sweat retaining kit, this time the player's received a soaking of another kind under the floodlights in our first cup game of the season. Many wondered how Mark Hughes could realistically expect to improve on Roy Hodgson's reign at Fulham, and his team selection tonight suggest he sees the domestic cups as a real opportunity for glory this season. Dembele was given a start, although only saw 45 minutes, presumably as he has yet to get his match fitness up to scratch.

In the time he was on the pitch though, he impressed. Always looking to turn towards goal upon receiving the ball, he is clearly a talented and confident performer. It's true that he will face tougher opponents that Port Vale but his two cameos for Fulham thus far have been encouraging. However, with an unabashed fondness for his left foot, one hopes he isn't overly one footed, as in time he would make himself easier to defend against. It also struick me watching Dembele how he resembled a slim Mido. Not a particularly interesting tid bit, but seeing as Martin Jol (inexplicably) recently signed the big boned Egyptian for Ajax, the appearance of Dembele crystallised that maybe Jol wasn't the answer at all, and that in Hughes, with encouraging results and the arrival of some interesting signings, we have done very well for ourselves.

Dembele crowned an impressive first half performance, a half that also saw two goal from Gera, and one from Zamora from a tight angle. The fourth goal came just before half time, and by then it was game over.

After a slow enough start to the second half, Fulham started to turn the screw again which was encouraging, as there is always a danger that, at 4-0 up a side might just decide to play out time. We were treated to another Zamora goal, this time direct from a free kick, and Dempsey, having tried a repeat of his chip against Juventus, got himself on the scoresheet also.

It's not often we see a glut of goals from Fulham, but the attitude under Hughes is admirable. There is a willingess to win, to show the extent of superiority, rahter than just keeping it tight and waiting for our class to show. We forced the issue from the off. I'll probably regret saying this, but I can see a win at Blackpool on Saturday...

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6339047,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6339047,00.html?)
Salcido flies in for talks
Fulham close in on Mexican defender
Skysports.com understands Mexican defender Carlos Salcido is flying into England for talks with Fulham over a possible move.

As revealed by skysports.com on Wednesday, Fulham have lined up a deal for PSV Eindhoven stopper Salcido as a possible replacement for Liverpool target Paul Konchesky.

Fulham boss Mark Hughes confirmed after Wednesday's Carling Cup win over Port Valethat they were interested in signing Salcidio.

The Cottagers are now thought have to agreed a fee with PSV for the 30-year-old, who has also been linked with the Reds.

Salcido has now been given permission to travel to London to hold talks with Fulham and have a look around the club's training ground.

The full-back would be Hughes's third signing of the summer if he ties up a move to West London following the arrivals of Rafik Halliche and Moussa Dembele.

http://www.tribalfootball.com/auxerre-eyeing-fulham-attacker-gera-1072021? (http://www.tribalfootball.com/auxerre-eyeing-fulham-attacker-gera-1072021?)
Auxerre eyeing Fulham attacker Gera

Auxerre are interested in Fulham attacker Zoltan Gera.

The Daily Mail says the Hungary international has held talks about his future with Fulham amid concerns he will become a bit-part player under Mark Hughes.

Gera enjoyed a decent season last campaign and was hoping to continue this term but Hughes has brought in Moussa Dembele to work alongside Bobby Zamora and that will limit Gera's options.

Hughes is believed to be still looking at strengthening his attacking options and may try and do a loan deal which could push Gera further down the pecking order unless Hughes utilises him in a different role.

http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/GeraPortValeReaction.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/GeraPortValeReaction.aspx?)
Hit For Six

Zoltan Gera was amongst the star performers on Wednesday night, scoring twice as Fulham put six past League Two Port Vale without reply.

"It was a good start to our cup run," assessed the Hungarian playmaker. "We started very well tonight and I think we did a very good job. The players were professional against a team that weren't bad, so I'm really happy to have played 90 minutes, to have won comfortably, and with some nice goals too.

"It was a good result and very good preparation for our next game. When you score goals it's always good for your confidence, and we scored six tonight, so we're very happy."

Gera set the Whites on their way to a runaway victory when he headed in Matthew Briggs' deep centre from the left after 10 minutes.

The cross was a telling first contribution from the 19-year-old Academy graduate making his full Fulham debut, and was followed later by a well-taken strike from recent signing Moussa Dembélé, another man making his first Whites start, and Zoltan had words of praise for them both.

"Matthew is a very talented young player, the Manager gave him the opportunity and he did very well, so it was a good start for him. And Moussa played very well too, coming deep to pick up the ball, and he took his goal well. I think he's a good player and a great signing for us."

The two new faces and Gera were the only changes from the Fulham line-up that faced Manchester United on Sunday, Mark Hughes naming a very strong team which signalled his intent to succeed in the League Cup this term. However, Zoltan was quick to point out that it takes more than good intentions to progress in cup competitions.

"First of all I think the Manager wanted to use this as another opportunity to see the players in his system, and tonight was a good chance to do that. But, obviously, he fielded a strong team because we would also like to win this cup if possible. We've got through the first game now, so hopefully we'll get another good draw in the next round and go forward from there.

"The League Cup is a good opportunity for us, but you always need luck with the draw. If you get drawn away from home against the big teams it becomes difficult, so the draw is very important. Also, though, it's up to us to maintain the same level of performance, because lots of teams slip up against lower league teams, but we did the job very well tonight and hopefully we'll do the same in the next round, whoever it may be against."

However, before the Carling Cup Third Round, thoughts now turn to Saturday and the potentially tricky trip to Blackpool's Bloomfield Road. And despite Wednesday night's emphatic scoreline, Gera explained that the team won't be getting carried away and will now prepare meticulously for this weekend's test.

"It will be a very tough game against Blackpool," he considered. "Because they'll be playing their first game at home in the Premier League. It will be a noisy stadium and they'll be playing with high confidence, so it's a very dangerous fixture for us and we need to prepare very carefully.

"But this result will certainly give us good confidence to take into Saturday."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/GeraPortValeReaction.aspx?#ixzz0xhvl5Ua9 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/GeraPortValeReaction.aspx?#ixzz0xhvl5Ua9)

http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/fulham-were-too-good-says-adams/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/fulham-were-too-good-says-adams/?)
Fulham were too good, says Adams
by DAN on AUGUST 26, 2010

A honest Micky Adams admitted Fulham were too good for his Port Vale side, who failed to repeat their earlier Carling Cup heroics at Craven Cottage last night.

The former Fulham manager couldn't script a fairytale return to the place where his managerial career began and was candid enough to disclose that Vale's chances of causing another giantkilling after felling QPR in the first round receeded once he saw that Mark Hughes had selected a strong team.

As soon as we saw the team sheet we knew we would be in trouble. A lot of the Premier League clubs last night made wholesale changes. Fulham for their own reasons picked their first team and it was always going to difficult.

But we are disappointed. I think we are better than we showed tonight but we couldn't get near Fulham. They had pace and movement and it was too much for us.

They are real athletes which is why they play at this level. We will lick our wounds and get on with it.

I came back here with Brentford and Leicester. I think this is my first defeat since coming back. The place is unrecognisable from the one I first managed. There are even tiles in the bathroom and hot water.

http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42745/Given_offered_exciting_move_opportunity.aspx? (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42745/Given_offered_exciting_move_opportunity.aspx?)
Given offered exciting move opportunity

AS Roma manager Claudio Ranieri is ready to offer Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given a chance to ply his trade in Serie A, according to a report in the Italian press.

It is believed that Roberto Mancini would be far more open to Given quitting England altogether, rather than have to do business with suggested suitors Arsenal and Fulham.

Tuttomercatoweb suggest that the former Chelsea and Juventus boss has been keeping tabs on the Ireland international's status at Eastlands and could pounce for the 34-year-old after the player expressed dismay at being confined to the substitutes bench for the opening matches of the season. 

Roma, who finished second in last season's exciting Serie A campaign, are thought to be eager to push through a £3 million move for Given.

The Giallorossi recently signed Romanian stopper Bogdan Lobont from Dinamo Bucharest as back-up to Brazilian pair Sergio and Alexander Doni, although with the latter set to move to Benfica the number one position is still very much up for grabs at the Stadio Olimpico.

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3110211/Fulham-want-Dickson-Etuhu-to-sign-a-new-deal-before-Liverpool-attempt-to-sign-him.html (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3110211/Fulham-want-Dickson-Etuhu-to-sign-a-new-deal-before-Liverpool-attempt-to-sign-him.html)


Etuhu could be real deal for Roy

By GEOFF SWEET

Published: 25 Aug 2010

Add a comment (10)

   
FULHAM want Dickson Etuhu to sign a new four-year deal - fearing Roy Hodgson will come in for his old player.
Several clubs have shown an interest in a player whose contract runs out next summer.

Liverpool boss Hodgson is watching carefully, fully aware the 28-year-old midfielder could walk for free if the Cottagers fail to tie him down.

Etuhu is keen to play abroad and a Fulham insider said: "Unfortunately everything has been left to the last minute.

"Although the situation is not ideal, no one at the club wants him to go."

Nigerian international Etuhu became a firm favourite with the Fulham fans under Hodgson, who admired his ball-winning tenacity.

He cost the club £1.5million from Sunderland in 2008, having honed his skills with Norwich and Preston.

The League Cup Show - 2010/2011


- Wed, 25 Aug 2010

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00tlhy7/The_League_Cup_Show_2010_2011_25_08_2010/ (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00tlhy7/The_League_Cup_Show_2010_2011_25_08_2010/)

Mark Hughes post match video interview -

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid29318049001?bctid=595195700001 (http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid29318049001?bctid=595195700001)

http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/portvalenews/Port-Vale-Micky-Adams-urges-Vale-learn-6-0-mauling/article-2573065-detail/article.html (http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/portvalenews/Port-Vale-Micky-Adams-urges-Vale-learn-6-0-mauling/article-2573065-detail/article.html)

Port Vale: Micky Adams urges Vale to learn from 6-0 mauling


MICKY Adams has urged his wounded Port Vale side to shrug off their 6-0 Carling Cup mauling at Fulham by taking their frustrations out on League Two high-flyers Torquay, writes Steve Shaw.

Mark Hughes's Premier League outfit comprehensively out-played The Valiants in last night's second-round clash at Craven  Cottage.

But Vale will get the chance to quickly bounce back when they host the League Two leaders on Saturday.

Adams said: "Every defeat hurts me, but I think the important thing is we don't over-react and that we think about the game sensibly.," said Adams.

"I'm disappointed with the players both individually and collectively and I think we could have played better.

"But let's put it into perspective. This Fulham team drew 2-2 with Manchester United on Sunday and we now face Torquay.

"Torquay are a good side at our level, but they are not a Fulham because their movement and everything else is not going to be of the same standard.

"We've got to dust ourselves down and make sure we are ready for an important game.

"We're lucky we've got such a good game to look forward to at this stage of the season."

Fulham made just three changes to the side that drew with United at the weekend, while their goals were supplied by England international Bobby Zamora (2), Zoltan Gera (2), Moussa Dembele and Clint Dempsey.

Adams attempted to bolster his defensive ranks by switching from his preferred 4-4-2 formation to a three-centre-back 5-3-2system.

He unleashed the latter system a fortnight ago when Vale secured a first-round 3-1 victory at Championship side QPR.

Adams said: "Fulham paid us the compliment of virtually picking their first team, so it was always going to be a difficult task.," added Adams.

"As a manager I'll always look back and ask should I have stuck with 4-4-2 or should I have tried other things?"

"But if I thought I could have come down here and played 4-4-2 and matched their quality I would have been kidding myself.

"We have frustrated higher division sides playing three centre backs, but unfortunately Fulham had more quality than those sides, and their first goal was always going to be crucial."

But Adams insists his side must take the positives from a difficult night after watching them lose their first game in five matches.

He said: "We didn't defend correctly and we got done too many times on one-twos in and around the box," said Adams."Their movement was good, but I think we can learn from that and get better ourselves."

"When we've got the ball can we get our movement right and can our players affect the game like Fulham's did?

"If we can do that it will stand us in good stead.

"This result wont damage us in any way, I'm certain about that."

And Adams at least enjoyed the standing ovation he received from the Fulham fans on his return to the Cottage and Vale's travelling contingent.

He said: "It's nice to be remembered with affection rather than coming on to the pitch hearing howls of derision.," said Adams.

"I still maintain I did a fantastic job at Fulham and I'm proud of my record."

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/26/fulham-boss-praises-youngster-after-full-debut-82029-27142333/ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/08/26/fulham-boss-praises-youngster-after-full-debut-82029-27142333/)

Fulham boss praises youngster after full debut


Aug 26 2010


By Alex Smith


MARK Hughes hailed academy graduate Matthew Briggs after starring on his full debut against Port Vale last night.

The Fulham boss witnessed the impressive 19-year-old left-back's first senior start for the club, in the 6-0 drubbing of former Whites boss Micky Adams' at Craven Cottage.

Hughes said, "It was an opportunity to have a look at the young boy.

"He's impressed in training and acquitted himself really well - and did himself no harm and had a massive hand in one of the goals."

It was Briggs' first appearance in a Fulham shirt for over three years since he made his debut for the club at the tender age of 16 years and 65 days, when he became the youngest Premier League player in history against Middlesbrough, coming on as a substitute at the Riverside on the final day of the 06/07 season.

The England U19 International has had to wait a while to get back in his clubs fold, but the youngster from Wandsworth wasted little time in reminding everyone what he is about.

Briggs was at the heart of all of Fulham's best moves in the first 45 minutes and was not afraid to get forward from his left back position- getting onto a ball from Damien Duff in the 10th minute which seemingly looked a lost cause, yet Briggs was able to deliver a deep cross onto the head of Zoltan Gera who tucked the ball home for Fulham's opener.

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23871299-matthew-briggs-grabs-chance-to-make-his-name-for-fulham.do (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23871299-matthew-briggs-grabs-chance-to-make-his-name-for-fulham.do)

Matthew Briggs grabs chance to make his name for Fulham

Ian Gibb


26.08.10


Fulham 6 Port Vale 0

Matthew Briggs wasn't even named on the back of the Fulham programme but, after the teenager played a starring role in the demolition of League Two Port Vale, he won't be overlooked for the club's next home game.

Briggs, who still lives at home with his mum and little brother in Wandsworth, has not played for the club since he became the Premier League's youngest ever player back in May 2007, but can expect further first-team opportunities after last night's performance.

New manager Mark Hughes was impressed by the 19-year-old defender in training and, despite fielding a strong side at Craven Cottage, decided to throw Briggs his big chance in the Carling Cup clash.

Briggs, who was 16 years and 65 days old when he appeared as a substitute in a 3-1 defeat by Middlesbrough, came of age in the driving rain with a mature performance against Vale that included laying on two of the first three goals.

And though Hughes insisted Paul Konchesky is not certain to be reunited with Roy Hodgson at Liverpool, it now seems the perfect plan with the imminent arrival of Mexico's World Cup left-back Carlos Salcedo from PSV Eindhoven.

Konchesky can surely go to Anfield, for around £3.5million - with Salcedo costing only £1.6m - especially now Briggs has shown himself a serious contender for a first-team spot.

"Left-back is a position we're probably a bit light," admitted Hughes. "That's why I wanted to look at Matthew. It's not a foregone conclusion Paul Konchesky goes, just because we're looking to bring somebody else in."

But it would appear to make economic sense once Salcedo is on board and Briggs looking so promising. And the teenager is determined to make the most of his second chance.

"I've been doing well in training and with a lack of left-backs at the club, this is my chance," he said. "The new manager said there is nothing holding me back and I should just go and grab it.

"It was a great experience, a chance for me to show what I've got and, hopefully, push on for the season."

Since that one substitute appearance, Briggs has spent the past three years in the background.

He said: "I didn't really get much of a chance to play since then. But I kept driving myself and was determined to keep progressing and pleasing the management. Now I've got my chance and I've got to keep going."

Hughes was delighted his gamble paid off. He said: "I didn't want to make too many changes but I just thought it was an opportunity to have a look at him.

"He acquitted himself really well and was instrumental in one of the goals. It was a shame he had to come off with a blow to his ankle but overall he did himself no harm."

Zoltan Gera and Bobby Zamora scored two each while new £5m signing Moussa Dembele and United States internatioanl Clint Dempsey were also on target as Fulham booked their place in Saturday's third-round draw.

Fulham lead trio for Mexican international

Published 12:55 26/08/10


By MirrorFootball

Fulham are set to beat off competition from Wigan and Birmingham to sign PSV defender Carlos Salcido for a fee of £2.5 million.

Fulham manager Mark Hughes revealed after his team's Carling Cup win that: "We have made enquiries,

"He is a player I am interested in and we are hopeful it might be concluded."

The 30 year-old Mexican international has amassed 77 caps since making his international debut in 2004

With Paul Konchesky seemingly set to move to Liverpool before the end of the transfer window, Hughes is keen to snap up a replacement.

Hughes said: "We are looking to have quality in all positions. Left-back is a position we are a little light in.

"It is not a foregone conclusion that Paul Konchesky goes because we are looking to bring someone else in."



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-News-Fulham-close-to-signing-Mexican-defender-Carlos-Salcido-article564367.html#ixzz0xiR0Txru (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-News-Fulham-close-to-signing-Mexican-defender-Carlos-Salcido-article564367.html#ixzz0xiR0Txru)
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Lucky Programme Number


Thursday 26th August 2010


Fulham FC News


The five lucky programme numbers drawn at Wednesday's Carling Cup Second Round match against Port Vale were as follows:

- 00234
- 01389
- 02616
- 02808
- 01486

If any of those correspond with the number printed on the back of your copy then email a scan or photograph of it as proof to [email protected]|. 

Our five lucky winners will win signed copies of the Europa League souvenir book, The Journey of a Lifetime.
.

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/LuckyProgrammeNumber.aspx#ixzz0xiSvWEHA (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/LuckyProgrammeNumber.aspx#ixzz0xiSvWEHA)

Hughes: Fulham will be busy in the transfer market right up until Tuesday's deadline


Published 14:43 26/08/10


By Neil McLeman



Mark Hughes has predicted he will be busy in the transfer market until the transfer window closes at 6pm on Tuesday.

The new Fulham manager has done deals for striker Moussa Dembele and centre-back Rafik Halliche while left-back Carlos Salcido is due in to complete a medical.

Arsenal-target Mark Schwarzer and Paul Konchesky, who is wanted by Liverpool, could be going in the opposite direction.

But Hughes, who once signed Brazilian Robinho for Manchester City in the final hours of the summer transfer window, said he will keep wheeling and dealing right until the last minute.

"We are looking to add to the quality we already have," said the Welshman. "We have added Dembele and Halliche which we feel is good business at this moment in time and we are trying to add to the squad we have and there is still time to do other deals.

"Who knows how much business we will do? Sometimes deals and opportunities present themselves very late in the day. I have done deals right until the last minute of windows so you can never when they will be concluded. You need a lot of things to fall into place before a deal happens. Sometimes deals that you think are going to be problematic are some of the easiest. It is very difficult to judge how each deal will go."



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/With-Mark-Schwarzer-and-Paul-Konchesky-possibly-out-and-Carlos-Salcido-in-Fulham-will-be-busy-in-the-transfer-market-right-up-until-Tuesdays-deadline-says-Mark-Hughes-article564509.html#ixzz0xis9tB73 (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/With-Mark-Schwarzer-and-Paul-Konchesky-possibly-out-and-Carlos-Salcido-in-Fulham-will-be-busy-in-the-transfer-market-right-up-until-Tuesdays-deadline-says-Mark-Hughes-article564509.html#ixzz0xis9tB73)

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6339442,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6339442,00.html)


Wenger coy on new keeper


Gunners boss could still make one more signing


Last updated: 26th August 2010   


Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is refusing to rule out bolstering his goalkeeping options, but insists no deal is imminent.

The Gunners have seen two summer bids for Fulham's Mark Schwarzer rejected as Wenger tried to secure the Australian's services.

Arsenal are thought to still be in the market for another shot-stopper, but the Frenchman has highlighted that he already has four keepers at his disposal.

He thinks that signing another could undermine his existing options, although he is not ruling out more transfer activity before the window closes.

"We are where we are - we have four great keepers and it is important we give confidence to them for the next game," Wenger said.

"I do not rule it out, but at the moment I say I am not in a position to sign anybody. At the moment, it is all dead."

Wenger has voiced his displeasure that the transfer window remains open, stating it should close when the start of the new domestic season gets underway.

"I believe the transfer window should have been over already for a long time, because it should stop when the championship starts for domestic transfers, internationally it should go on until August 31 because not everybody starts at the same time," he concluded.

Darren Lewis' Top 10 transfers to keep an eye on before the transfer deadline

By Darren Lewis in Football Spy

Published 14:40 26/08/10

The summer transfer window closes at 6pm on August 31. And while the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City have declared they've finished their business for the summer, there's still plenty of action left in the market yet.

Here's the Top 10 transfers to keep an eye on between now and Tuesday evening:

1) Mark Schwarzer (Fulham to Arsenal)
The Australian keeper has made it clear that he doesn't want to play for Fulham any more with Champions League football and a player-coach role on offer at the Emirates. Fulham want more than double the £2million Arsenal have offered for theirkeeper. The Gunners clearly dont want to pay that much for a 37-year-old. Expect a resolution by Tuesday.

2) Paul Konchesky (Fulham to Liverpool)
The former Charlton and West Ham left back excelled last season under Roy Hodgson and has had the call to rejoin his former boss at Anfield. Fulham boss Mark Hughes already has a replacement lined up.

3) Charles N'Zogbia (Wigan to Birmingham)
The bad boy winger has made it clear he has no interest in playing for Wigan again. Boss Roberto Martinez initially adopted the get-tough: 'You're going nowhere' stance. But chairman Dave Whelan has been forced to step in, insisting N'Zogbia is off if as soon as they get a reasonable offer. Birmingham are currently deep in negotiations.

4) Javier Mascherano (Liverpool to Inter Milan)
Another player refusing to pull on his club's shirt ever again. Rafa Benitez wants to be reunited with him at Inter Milan. Liverpool have no Champions League football with which to make a counter-offer. The haggling has begun.

5) Hatem Ben Arfa (Marseille to Newcastle)
Clearly the tantrums are catching as the 23-year-old French winger is another to effectively go on strike to force a move. Newcastle have set the pace in the race for him for some time and looked set to slip the field to land a bit of a coup. But German club Werder Bremen have made a late £6million bid as opposed to Newcastle's loan offer. Liverpool and Arsenal have also expressed an interest to the French champions. It could go to the wire.

6) Ola Toivonen (PSV to Liverpool)
A powerful, prolific 24-year-old Swedish striker currently the apple of Roy Hodgson's eye. The Reds boss has had Toivonen watched playing for PSV and has watched the marksman himself playing for Sweden. PSV say they have already dismissed an enquiry but they are expect Liverpool to be back.

7) Anthony Vanden Borre (Genoa to West Ham)
Avram Grant is desperate for a right-back before the window closes as he is none too keen on Julien Faubert in that position. Vanden Borre did well for him at Portsmouth last season but, just in case a move for him falls through, Grant also has his eye on loan moves for Kyle Naughton at Spurs and Anthony Gerrard at Cardiff.

8) Roque Santa Cruz (Manchester City to Newcastle)
City don't see the Magpies as a direct rival so they could let their Paraguayan striker move to St James's Park on the basis that he wouldn't play when the two sides meet on October 3 and December 26. Lazio, however, have thrown a spanner in the works with a loan move they have pursued aggressively. Another deal that could go down to the wire.

9) Scott Parker (West Ham to Spurs)
A five-year contract on the table at Upton Park has still yet to be signed by Parker with Spurs and Liverpool both keen on him. At 30-year-old the interest from Tottenham represents his last chance to play Champions League football. It comes down to a straight choice between that - and being the best player in an average team. Spurs have already had a bid rejected. But expect them to go in again before Tuesday's deadline.

10) Lassana Diarra (Real Madrid to Spurs)
A bit of a surprise he has been made available for transfer by Real Madrid because the 25-year-old France midfielder is still a quality player. Spurs head the chasing pack and Redknapp could yet buy him AND Parker as Diarra can also play at right-back.



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/blogs/football-spy/Mark-Schwarzer-to-Arsenal-Lassana-Diarra-and-Scott-Parker-to-Tottenham-Ola-Toivonen-and-Paul-Konchesky-to-Liverpool-and-Roque-Santa-Cruz-to-Newcastle-The-Top-10-transfers-to-keep-an-eye-on-before-the-transfer-deadline-by-Darren-Lewis-article564499.html#ixzz0xiu7kfiF (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/blogs/football-spy/Mark-Schwarzer-to-Arsenal-Lassana-Diarra-and-Scott-Parker-to-Tottenham-Ola-Toivonen-and-Paul-Konchesky-to-Liverpool-and-Roque-Santa-Cruz-to-Newcastle-The-Top-10-transfers-to-keep-an-eye-on-before-the-transfer-deadline-by-Darren-Lewis-article564499.html#ixzz0xiu7kfiF)
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http://threeandin.com/2010/08/26/fulham-set-to-upgrade-on-konchesky/ (http://threeandin.com/2010/08/26/fulham-set-to-upgrade-on-konchesky/)


Fulham set to upgrade on Konchesky

by Hogger On August - 26 - 2010


In his time at Manchester City, Mark Hughes didn't exactly earn himself a reputation as a wheeler-dealer extraordinaire.  This is the man who paid £24m for Joleon Lescott, and £17.5m for Roque Santa Cruz.  Since joining Fulham, however, circumstances have changed.  His spending power has been significantly reduced, and he now has to lower his sights to the discount bin.  From Christie's to Bargain Hunt, in a matter of months.

However, it seems Hughes has adapted remarkably quickly to the tighter purse-strings at Craven Cottage..  Having already nabbed highly-rated Belgian forward Moussa Dembele, he could be about to upgrade his options at full-back.  Roy Hodgson, Hughes' predecessor and the current Liverpool boss, is pursuing left-back Paul Konchesky – he obviously signed no Benitez-style agreement with his former club.  Unperturbed, Hughes has moved for PSV's Mexican defender Carlos Salcido.

Konchesky is a solid Premier League full-back.  Salcido, however, is one of the stars of the Mexican national team.  His performances in the World Cup cemented his reputation as a quick, intelligent, versatile defender, who also offers an attacking threat.  Hughes looks set to secure a superior player to Konchesky, and probably turn a profit too.

If I were in Hodgson's shoes, this is the point where I'd go: "Oh, Salcido is available? You can keep Konchesky in that case, we'll have the Mexican lad instead".  But after missing out on Luke Young, Hodgson seems determined to get his quota of average English full-backs in place.

Hughes might not stop there.  With Arsenal still interested in Mark Schwarzer, there are some suggestions that Hughes will be able to persuade City to lend him Shay Given as a possible replacement.  Given represents a younger, more celebrated, more agile alternative to the Aussie, but Arsenal know their Northern rivals wouldn't contemplate selling them a potential key player.  Fulham, however, are just about distant enough to permit such a deal.

Konchesky and Schwarzer out, Salcido and Given in would represent some extraordinary business, and a more significant upgrade than when I swapped my ancient Nokia for an iPhone.  If only Hughes had spent his money as carefully at City, he might still be in the job.  Perhaps he's learnt his lesson.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6339749,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6339749,00.html)

Hughes coy over Roque talk


Fulham boss refuses to confirm if interested in City striker


By Ben Collins   Last updated: 26th August 2010   

Fulham boss Mark Hughes has refused to comment on reports he is interested in signing Roque Santa Cruz for a third time.

Hughes brought Santa Cruz to England in 2007 while Blackburn boss, signing the Paraguay striker from Bayern Munich for £3.8million.

Hughes then spent £17.5m taking Santa Cruz to Manchester City last summer but injuries restricted his first-team opportunities and he only made six league starts last season.

The 28-year-old remains down the pecking order at Eastlands, with Carlos Tevez and Emmanuel Adebayor first-choice strikers while Jo is back in favour under current Blues boss Roberto Mancini.

Loan link
Hughes was therefore said to be lining up a loan deal for Santa Cruz, but he was keeping his cards close to his chest on Thursday when asked if a deal could be done before the transfer deadline.

"I'll always be interested in good players but I think it's unfair to be questioned on players that are at other clubs," Hughes told Sky Sports News.

"It will happen, I understand it's that time of the year we get put on the spot.

"But from our point of view, we're looking to add to the quality that we already have.

"We're pleased with bringing in Moussa Dembele and Rafik Halliche, which we feel is good business at this time.

"We're trying to add to what we already have and there's still time to do other deals so we'll wait and see."

Dembele and Halliche are Hughes' only signings so far since being named Fulham boss at the end of last month, while Philippe Senderos and Jonathan Greening arrived at Craven Cottage earlier in the summer.

Sparky Sky interview -

IMG 0292 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDsDIU9opss#)