http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/liverpool/7972518/Liverpool-rebuffed-by-Fulham-over-Bobby-Zamora-interest.html? (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/liverpool/7972518/Liverpool-rebuffed-by-Fulham-over-Bobby-Zamora-interest.html?)
Liverpool rebuffed by Fulham over Bobby Zamora interest
Fulham have strongly rejected an inquiry by Liverpool about their striker Bobby Zamora.
During Liverpool's negotiations to sign Paul Konchesky, the possibility of securing Zamora was also raised with the Fulham hierarchy.
Both players worked with Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson at Craven Cottage and he is a great admirer of Zamora as well as Konchesky who has been desperate to move to Anfield.
Fulham are adamant that Zamora, who would be in the England squad but for injury, is not for sale. The 29 year-old has undergone a dramatic turnaround in his career after almost being sold to Hull City last summer.
Liverpool are also considering a bid for West Ham's Carlton Cole with Hodgson determined to add a powerful striker to his squad before the transfer window closes today.
An offer is yet to be made for Cole and there will be serious concerns, given his fitness record, as to whether he can adequately pass a medical. Its also unclear whether West Ham would be willing to sell at this late stage.
Everton last night rejected a 'derisory' offer from Tottenham for midfielder Steven Pienaar following Harry Redknapp's attempt to seal a deadline day deal for the South Africa international.
With Pienaar in the final year of his contract at Goodison Park, Spurs are understood to have offered in the region of £2 million for the 28 year-old. But Everton swiftly rejected the offer and will attempt to resist any further bids for the former Ajax midfielder ahead of today's transfer deadline.
Pienaar, who has also been linked with Manchester United since the end of last season, has rejected the offer of a new deal on Merseyside and Everton face the prospect of losing the player as a free agent at the end of the season.
Having failed with Pienaar, Spurs may make a last ditch attempt to sign Scott Parker, from West Ham, with Robbie Keane offered as the bait.
They have already had a £8 million bid rejected, but with Parker yet to commit to a new contract, they believe they could lure the England midfielder to North London.
Spurs have, however, been frustrated in their attempt to sign Brazil striker Luis Fabiano after he signed a contract extension at Sevilla.
Chairman Daniel Levy made contact with Sevilla last week over a deal, but Fabiano yesterday agreed to remain at Sevilla until 2013.
http://www.itv.com/sport/football/news/duff-out-of-armenia-game-72623/? (http://www.itv.com/sport/football/news/duff-out-of-armenia-game-72623/?)
Duff out of Armenia game
Damien Duff has been ruled out of the Republic of Ireland's European Championship qualifier in Armenia on Friday through injury.
The 31-year-old Fulham winger has withdrawn because of a calf problem picked up during Saturday's 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw at Fulham.
Duff, who has 84 senior international caps, will be assessed by his club and could yet join up with the squad for the home clash with Andorra next Tuesday evening.
He joins Blackburn midfielder Keith Andrews, who has a groin injury, on the sidelines for the start of the Republic's qualifying campaign.
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/no-call-up-for-zamora-and-stockdale/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/no-call-up-for-zamora-and-stockdale/?)
No call-up for Zamora and Stockdale
by TOR on AUGUST 30, 2010
As was feared, last night two familiar names were left off the England squad sheets for the forthcoming European qualifiers. Dan reported over the weekend, it was likely that the injuries sustained by Bobby Zamora, called up earlier this month for the friendly against Hungary, and David Stockdale at Blackpool on Saturday would force Capello to name alternatives. And indeed he did.
Patrick Barclay, in his column in The Times today (behind the paywall I'm afraid), suggests that Bobby's injury is a big blow to the England squad and praises his recent form;
The Fulham centre forward has been in such consistently marvellous form for so long that it hardly seemed to matter that he was 29. To me, Zamora looked the key to an invigorated England, one that might start to rebuild confidence damaged by a dismal World Cup with vibrant performances in the opening qualifying matches for the European Championship against Bulgaria at Wembley on Friday and Switzerland in Basle tomorrow week.
Bobby's been quite unlucky with injuries holding him back from making a real impact internationally, first the Achilles injury reportedly preventing him from joining the squad in South Africa over the summer, and now a thigh strain, but hopefully he'll get the chance to pull on the white shirt again and show how far he's come. It certainly doesn't sound too serious an injury and there's no indication that he'll not be able to join his Fulham colleagues when Craven Cottage hosts Wolverhampton Wanderers in two weeks' time. At least the international break affords Zamora an extra week to overcome this setback.
The news for Stockdale doesn't sound quite so good with The Guardian reporting that he could be out for two months after damaging his ankle ligaments on Saturday;
Ankle ligament damage has already denied Stockdale his first involvement with the national side – the Fulham goalkeeper fears he could be absent for up to two months having only just broken into the first team at Craven Cottage – and allowed Carson a return to the fold.
So not only does he miss out on his first cap, but Stockdale misses the opportunity to continue proving himself worthy of a regular first team spot. Stockdale shouldn't be too concerned about his international debut – he's still young and Capello has few goalkeeping options, so a future call-up could well be a reality. The question is whether he'll continue to be a regular on the pitch, rather than on the bench, once he recovers from his injury. With rumours about Shay Given coming to the Cottage on loan, in order to allow Schwarzer his longed-for move across London, and Mark Hughes having already set about managing Stockdale's expectations, the likelihood seems quite remote.
For now, the England squad is without its "lucky" Fulham contingent but it says a lot that the media is even considering our players for international recognition, not least that perhaps the domination of the Big Four may well be nearing its end. Long may it continue.
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/08/30/fulham-review-reprints/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/08/30/fulham-review-reprints/?)
Fulham Review reprints
Filed under: General — weltmeisterclaude @ 4:33 pm
Due to popular demand, I've reprinted the latest Fulham Review. I got a good deal from the printer so it's still £5 a go.
www.godsfoot.com (http://www.godsfoot.com) tobuy.
If in doubt, please do get one! You know it makes sense. Easily the biggest and best version yet. If you haven't got one, why not?
That's me being an aggressive salesman. (previous editions are also available – if you want to combine postage drop me an email and we'll sort something out).
Will be selling them on Stevenage Road before the Wolves game, up by the club shop/Hammersmith End gates.
http://www.tribalfootball.com/man-city (http://www.tribalfootball.com/man-city)'s-given-turns-down-fulham-scuppering-schwarzer's-shift-arsenal-1081371?
Man City's Given turns down Fulham, scuppering Schwarzer's shift to Arsenal
Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given has reportedly turned down a move to Fulham, essentially breaking down Mark Schwarzer's dream move to Arsenal.
The ongoing keeper saga may have finally come to a close after The Guardian suggested that 34-year old Republic of Ireland international Given, who has been demoted to number two at Eastlands, has decided to stay with City and compete with youngster Joe Hart for a starting spot in Roberto Mancini's team.
Schwarzer was apparently close to becoming a Gunners player but needed Given to become his replacement at Craven Cottage and after that did not transpire, it seems as though he will remain a Cottagers player.
The 37-year old Australian international has not been a part of the first three Premier League squads deployed by Mark Hughes so far this season but was named in Hoglger Osieck's Socceroos list for upcoming friendlies with Switzerland and Poland.
http://www.tribalfootball.com/monaco (http://www.tribalfootball.com/monaco)'s-gudjohnsen-set-turn-down-stoke-fulham-1081401?
Monaco's Gudjohnsen set to turn down Stoke for Fulham
Monaco striker Eidur Gudjohnsen is set to sign a season-long loan with Fulham after turning down Stoke City.
The 31-year old Iceland international is almost certain to land at Craven Cottage according to Mirror Football after snubbing the Potters who were confident of getting a deal done.
Last season, Gudjohnsen turned down a loan move to West Ham United at the last minute to join Tottenham, and it seems as though a similar situation has occurred here.
The Cottagers are willing to pay about £2million of the former Chelsea and Barcelona man's salary at Monaco which should see the French club agree to a loan deal.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1307533/Fulham-battle-sign-Manchester-City-misfit-Roque-Santa-Cruz-Real-Madrid-midfielder-Royston-Drenthe.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1307533/Fulham-battle-sign-Manchester-City-misfit-Roque-Santa-Cruz-Real-Madrid-midfielder-Royston-Drenthe.html?)
Fulham in battle to sign Manchester City misfit Roque Santa Cruz and Real Madrid midfielder Royston Drenthe
Fulham face a race against time to seal deals for Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz and Real Madrid's Royston Drenthe.
Santa Cruz will snub a loan move to Lazio if Fulham can get the paperwork finished quickly, while Drenthe is keen to escape the Bernabeu where he is not wanted.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1307533/Fulham-battle-sign-Manchester-City-misfit-Roque-Santa-Cruz-Real-Madrid-midfielder-Royston-Drenthe.html?#ixzz0yAJ3kWQk (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1307533/Fulham-battle-sign-Manchester-City-misfit-Roque-Santa-Cruz-Real-Madrid-midfielder-Royston-Drenthe.html?#ixzz0yAJ3kWQk)
http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2010/08/31/2096085/fulham-goalkeeper-mark-schwarzer-still-hopeful-of-arsenal? (http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2010/08/31/2096085/fulham-goalkeeper-mark-schwarzer-still-hopeful-of-arsenal?)
Fulham Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer Still 'Hopeful' Of Arsenal Move
Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is still "hopeful" of playing with Arsenal...
Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer is still "hopeful" of making a move across London to ply his trade with Arsenal.
The Gunners have been widely expected to bring in a replacement for firs-choice shot-stopper Manuel Almunia, as neither Lukasz Fabianski nor Vito Mannone has been able to step up to snatch the No 1 spot from the former Celta Vigo 'keeper.
This led to a public pursuit of the Cottagers' last line of defence, as Goal.com exclusively revealed that the north London club had offered the Australian a player-coach deal if he were to switch allegiances.
Mark Hughes would be in serious trouble if he were to allow Schwarzer to make a move without finding a replacement, as the ageing 'keeper's understudy, David Stockdale, is sidelined for a few weeks owing to ankle ligament damage.
In the meantime, Manchester City benchwarmer Shay Given has been linked with a move away from Eastlands, with Craven Cottage thought to be his destination.
In light of this, Goal.com also recently revealed exclusively that Given would have to pass a shoulder test at Fulham to ensure that his current injury is not a serious one, prior to a potential move to the Cottage.
Now, the Australian is hoping for the best with regard to the medical that his City counterpart would have to undergo, as a successful completion would act as a trigger his potential move to Arsenal to reach fruition.
"I'm biding my time waiting for things to happen and then I'll be on move - if you see what I mean," Schwarzer said, according to The Mirror.
"I'm hopeful, I'm always hopeful."
http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/2010/08/premiership/arsenal-find-an-unexciting-3m-answer (http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/2010/08/premiership/arsenal-find-an-unexciting-3m-answer)
ARSENAL FIND AN UNEXCITING £3M ANSWER
Arsene Wenger's quest to find a keeper has been one of the ongoing stories of the summer, with faith in their current crop of keepers hitting an all time low.
Mark Schwarzer has been the keeper top of Arsene Wenger's shopping list and with the clock running down on the transfer window the wheels could finally be set in motion for the deal to go through.
The deal's success hinges heavily on Fulham's ability to bring in a new keeper to replace Schwarzer. David Stockdale has done an admirable job in goal for Fulham so far this season, but the news that he has suspected knee ligament damage that could keep him on the sidelines for two months means that a new keeper will be essential for the club.
With Man City seemingly unwilling to sell Shay to any of their direct competitors, Fulham are lining up a loan move for the Irishman. Fulham are prepared give Given the first-team action he so desperately wants following his loss of the No.1 jersey to Joe Hart.
A potential stumbling block is that the loan will only go ahead if it is proved that he is fully recovered from his shoulder injury and Fulham's medical team are understood to have spent the weekend perusing his medical history as a way to ascertain this.
Mark Hughes has conceded that Schwarzer is likely to leave the club and Arsenal are ready to increase their bid for the Australian to £3 million, which is likely to be accepted on the condition that Fulham have sorted out their own goalkeeping problems.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/aug/30/shay-given-stays-manchester-city (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/aug/30/shay-given-stays-manchester-city)
Shay Given chooses to stay at Manchester City and fight for No1 place
• Goalkeeper persuaded to take himself off market
• Robinho expected to complete move to Milan
Shay Given has decided to stay at Manchester City, turning down the chance to rejoin his former manager Mark Hughes at Fulham, after being persuaded to remove himself from the market on the eve of the transfer window deadline.
Given had initially reacted to losing his place to Joe Hart by informing City's manager, Roberto Mancini, that he wanted to leave the club. That immediately alerted Fulham, who have been looking for a goalkeeper so they can allow Mark Schwarzer to join Arsenal.
Since then, however, Given has had a series of meetings with Mancini and the club's football administrator, Brian Marwood, and slowly come round to the idea that he should stay in Manchester and try to dislodge Hart. That, in turn, threatens Arsenal's hopes of signing Schwarzer, with Hughes having already gone on record to say he would allow the deal to happen only if he had a replacement lined up.
Given has based his decision on the fact he joined City in the hope that he could win the first trophy of his career and that, by leaving for a smaller club, he could effectively be passing over that chance. He had also worried that he might jeopardise his place in the Republic of Ireland team but the manager, Giovanni Trapattoni, has assured him that is not the case.
City are involved in four competitions and Given was assured the club are taking them all seriously and that, at the very least, there will be opportunities for him to play in the Carling Cup and Europa League Mancini, who described him as being among Europe's five best goalkeepers last season, has made it clear he does not want to lose him.
After spending £126m this summer City will not be heavily involved on the final day of the transfer window, although Robinho is expected to complete his move to Milan almost two years to the day since becoming the most expensive player in English football.
Mino Raiola, an Italian agent acting on a mandate from Milan, arrived in Manchester today to discuss the deal. Raoila has spent the summer negotiating Mario Balotelli's move to City and Zlatan Ibrahimovic's to Milan and will spend tomorrow trying to arrange a fee for Robinho, the asking price being in the region of £18m with potential add-ons.
Roque Santa Cruz, another big-money signing who has endured a difficult time in Manchester, is giving serious thought to staying at City despite a loan offer from Lazio. The £17m signing from Blackburn Rovers is said to have reservations about leaving England and may reject the chance of playing in Serie A.
Another shock target for Villa is newly-appointed Fulham boss Mark Hughes, who was their original first-choice when Martin O'Neill resigned on 9 August. (The Times)
http://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/blackpool-football-club/Blackpool-2-Fulham-2-.6503294.jp? (http://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/blackpool-football-club/Blackpool-2-Fulham-2-.6503294.jp?)
Blackpool 2 Fulham 2 - full match report
LET'S begin by returning to 2006.
Blackpool kicked off their League One campaign with a 1-0 defeat at Brentford (Adrian Forbes' debut – a momentous day, surely you must remember it?), followed by home defeats against Nottingham Forest and Rotherham.
One more loss and it would have been the worst start to a season since 1898.
There were grumbles and gripes among the 4,000 or so home fans still bothering to turn up for games, at a stadium which consisted of an empty open space behind the south goal and had a stand on the east side which was an unroofed embarrassment.
Quite amazing, then, that just four short years later, those bad old days seem a lifetime ago.
What a moment it was on Saturday to see the Tangerines trot out in front of 15,000 supporters at a sparkling four-sided Bloomfield Road for a Premier League game.
I spoke before kick-off to grown men who were filling up as they took in the enormity and significance of the occasion.
"I started supporting this lot in 1979," said one bloke, tattoo on his arm and a tear in his eye.
"I can't believe this day has come. Who'd have thought it? Right, I'm off for a Stella."
This, the first top-flight match on the Fylde since Jimmy Armfield's last game in May 1971, was final confirmation that Blackpool have reawakened from the coma of the last 40 years and are back in the big time.
As if to prove the Seasiders really are again a force, the England manager himself was seated in the director's box.
Granted Fabio Capello had probably come to watch Bobby Zamora rather than Gary Taylor-Fletcher but who cares?
Capello, incidentally, is a fine art enthusiast and has a collection of paintings worth an estimated £17m – almost as much as the FA are paying him over the next 12 months.
Mind you, the bloke earns his corn. He started his day at Blackburn, zoomed to Blackpool and then headed straight to Manchester United.
That's not easy, especially when you're stuck in traffic on the M62 unable to do anything except sit and quaff cold chardonnay in the back of a chauffer-driven limousine. Nightmare.
While unlikely to pick any Seaside stars in his England squad anytime soon, Capello must surely have been impressed at what he witnessed (even though he departed around the hour mark and missed Pool's goals).
For the Tangerines produced some mighty fine football – even hard-to-please Alan Hansen said so – proving they had shrugged off the psychological trauma of the previous week's travails at Arsenal.
It was a performance which suggested that far from being the Premier League misfits every critic in the country is making them out to be, Ian Holloway's side do have a chance of staying up after all.
Fulham are one of the better sides in the division, not the type of team that Pool should really be thinking of beating.
So how encouraging that they more than matched their visitors, and Mark Hughes could have had few complaints had the Seasiders held on three minutes longer and claimed the points.
I think Blackpool will be a tough nut to crack at Bloomfield Road.
Away they may well struggle. The Wigan game, however brilliant, will be a rarity. On the road they'll probably do well to pick up more than ten points.
But on home turf I fancy they will shock many a team, particularly those in the bottom half of the division, and that's where survival can be won.
On Saturday there were many who caught the eye.
The defending of Alex Baptiste, in particular, was top-notch, while Elliot Grandin looked the classiest player on show.
He still needs to prove he has a final product and must be more decisive when going forward, but the lad has superb quality and a wonderful touch on the ball.
If he is coached and developed in the correct way, time may well prove that Holloway has unearthed one of the stars of the season.
Then there's Luke Varney. Only Holloway could pluck a player from a Championship reserve side and turn him into a Premier League star within 24 hours.
By rights Varney should have been sweating about whether he'd make the bench for the Rams home game with QPR at the weekend.
Instead, signed by Pool on a season-long loan. He was starting his first ever game in the top flight and marked it by scoring a delightful goal, as well as forcing the error which led to the Seasiders' opener.
He also had several other efforts, none better than the fourth-minute wallop which Fulham keeper David Stockdale did well to beat away.
That happened during a rip-roaring start, when Holloway's men threatened to run rampage.
They were denied a goal when Brett Ormerod's header was chalked out for offside. Correct decision but a crying shame for the move involving David Vaughan, Stephen Crainey and Charlie Adam had been a work of art as good as any Capello owns.
Fulham weathered the early storm well, though, settled and took the lead ten minutes before the break, when Zamora headed in Moussa Dembele's inviting centre.
Ian Evatt fumed about what he saw as a foul in the build- up, though replays were inconclusive.
At half-time, another reminder we were in the Premier League.
Miss Blackpool emerged to conduct the draw in front of the West stand (it was at this point I felt a pang of regret that the press box had been moved to the east side...), while some fans had a race in a couple of giant inflatable balls.
Sprinkler heads, operated by remote control, emerged from the playing surface to fire water on a pitch that had this strange green stuff on it.
And all this while a big screen in the corner played goals from previous matches.
My God, this isn't the Blackpool I know and love. It's like a proper club now ... weird.
Just when the second half appeared to be a stalemate, the Seasider's perseverance and efforts paid off.
With 19 minutes remaining, Grandin fed Varney (in truth his pass was poor, slightly behind his colleague), but the striker's shot was comically turned into his own net by Fulham defender John Pantsil.
Tails up, Pool poured forward and Adam almost scored a blinder, Stockdale pulling off a fine save.
Then a truly terrific goal. A brilliant move the length of the pitch ended with Varney latching on to Ormerod's perfectly weighted throughball and dispatching it first time past Stockdale.
It was a great finish, Varney knowing exactly where the keeper and the target was without so much as a glance up.
Pandemonium inside Bloomfield Road. Pool were on course for victory in their first ever Premier League home game.
Alas the downside of the top flight is that the opposition has the quality to hurt you. Three minutes from time, the excellent Dembele threaded a pass outside Baptiste and Dickson Etuhu finished in style, lifting the ball over Gilks.
A historic day therefore ended on a slightly disappointing note. But don't say that to Ian Holloway for he'll quite rightly bite your head off.
There is nothing whatsoever to be disappointed about at the moment.
Blackpool are well and truly back, and what's more they're playing well, picking up points and already proving people wrong.
It's what they do best and long may it continue.
Quote from: WhiteJC on August 31, 2010, 08:18:11 AM
Another shock target for Villa is newly-appointed Fulham boss Mark Hughes, who was their original first-choice when Martin O'Neill resigned on 9 August. (The Times)
He isn't going anywhere, plus they don't have the money to buy him.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/7972598/Arsenal-make-final-bid-for-Fulham-goalkeeper-Mark-Schwarzer.html? (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/7972598/Arsenal-make-final-bid-for-Fulham-goalkeeper-Mark-Schwarzer.html?)
Arsenal make final bid for Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer
Arsenal have launched a £4 million bid to sign Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, according to reports.
(http://i.telegraph.co.uk/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01705/Mark-Schwarzer_1705459c.jpg)
Waiting game: Mark Schwarzer could make last-minute move to Arsenal Photo: REUTERS
Arsenal have already had a £2m bid turned down by Fulham coach Mark Hughes but Arsene Wenger looks set to pursue the Australian today as a replacement for first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Almunia.
Lukasz Fabianski and Vito Mannone, Arsenal's second and third choice 'keepers, have been unable to overtake Almunia in the pecking order.
However, any move to the Emirates is likely to hinge on Hughes finding a possible replacement after Shay Given, a Fulham target, decided to stay at Manchester City.
"I'm biding my time waiting for things to happen and then I'll be on move - if you see what I mean," Schwarzer told The Mirror.
"I'm hopeful, I'm always hopeful."
Meanwhile, Arsenal striker Robin van Persie will be out of action for several weeks after hurting his left ankle in Saturday's Premier League match against at Blackburn.
The Dutch Football Association says that the forward will miss its European Championship qualifiers against San Marino and Finland because he is likely to be out of action for "at least a few weeks."
http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_1_4260_club-focus-fulham-à (http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_1_4260_club-focus-fulham-%C3%83)¢Â€Â"-konchesky-departure-means-hughes-is-set-for-busy-deadline-day.html?
Club Focus - Fulham – Konchesky departure means Hughes is set for busy deadline day
By Matt Domm
Tuesday 31 August 2010
With the transfer window coming to a close at the end of today, the Fulham final 25 could yet take on a very different shape to the one Mark Hughes currently has to work with. With Paul Konchesky a near-certainty to join Liverpool, and Mark Schwarzer looking increasingly likely to finally move to the Emirates, the loss of two members of the mean Fulham defence of recent years leaves work to be done on the busiest day of the footballing year.
Konchesky is undoubtedly missed when he doesn't line up on the left. Matthew Briggs performed admirably against Port Vale, but in the league Stephen Kelly still leaves a lot to be desired. As a right footer on the left-hand side of defence, he is immediately at a disadvantage - his attacking threat limited to crosses from his weaker foot that are rarely effective. But even when trying to nullify the opposition, he does not appear to have the same understanding with his three colleagues as Konchesky has managed to drum up over the past two years. His positioning was punished twice by Blackpool at the weekend, mistakes that Konchesky did of course occasionally make himself, but far less frequently. The left-back position now looks to be a weak spot in the Fulham squad, unless Carlos Salcido can hit the ground running.
Coming from a league where players have often struggled to make the step up, Salcido, should Konchesky indeed leave, will be tasked with slotting into a watertight defence and learning the ropes of a high-paced league. With Kelly looking shaky, the Mexican could even be thrust into the starting line-up instead of being eased into action from the bench as new signings usually are. With his performances for Mexico at the World Cup in South Africa, and the immediate success of Hughes' first Fulham signing, Moussa Dembele, there are few reasons why Salcido should not take to the Premier League like a duck to water. But is he an improvement on the ever-reliable Konchesky? The coming months will reveal all in that respect, and having been an excellent performer for PSV Eindhoven the signs look positive. Although Konchesky is decent going forward, Salcido is a recognised attacking full-back, which means Fulham are likely to see more goals, but might see more through their own net because of this.
Without seeing how he takes to his new teammates however, little more can be said, but if the Whites do indeed become more vulnerable at the back, which is not guaranteed as Salcido is also an able defender, then who is between the sticks could prove vital to the season. Hughes has made it clear he will not be letting Schwarzer leave without bringing in a replacement, so the No 1 spot is still very much up in the air. The deal to bring in Shay Given is either on or off, depending which newspaper you read, and talks are supposedly going on with Schwarzer's Australian understudy, Reading's Adam Federici. Few Fulham fans could argue a Given-David Stockdale goalkeeping set-up is not much, if any, worse than the current two, but Federici in for Schwarzer is a deal that would be in danger of weakening the squad - a situation Hughes has publically announced he would not let happen.
The manager has already strengthened two areas of the club that were weaker than others by bringing in Dembele to invigorate the attack from the left or centre and Rafik Halliche to provide genuine back-up for the always excellent Aaron Hughes and Brede Hangeland. Salcido appears to be in as a replacement rather than to strengthen a previous weak spot, and any goalkeeper who may come in will certainly be an alternative to the current No 1. On the evidence so far, Hughes' transfer dealings have been shrewd to make sure all 11 positions have adequate cover, but he is also using the window to fight any attempts to poach the players he considers to be first teamers.
There are more indispensible members of the team to lose than Konchesky, for all his talents, and Salcido could turn out to be an improvement in that area. Schwarzer's head, however, has been turned since the interest from Arsenal last season, which not a lot can be done about. If he does leave, and Given does not come in to replace him, then arguably the goalkeeping spot will be the only position that is any weaker than last season. And that, for a club like Fulham, is enough to make any transfer window a success.
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/its-all-kicking-off/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/08/its-all-kicking-off/?)
It's all kicking off!!
by GATESY on AUGUST 31, 2010
Well, as I was promised it's already been a fantastically exciting on Transfer Deadline Day!
According to The Telegraph this morning Liverpool are, not content with taking Konch off our hands, putting in a cheeky bid for our Bobby. And many of the other papers saying Sparkys doing similar to his old club and wants to bring Given and Santa Cruz to SW6. Though The Guardian reports Givens decided he'd prefer to warm the bench and collect his hefty pay packet up at The City of Manchester Stadium instead.
Though according to The Times, Sparky is popping off to Villa some five weeks after becoming Roys replacement at the cottage. Which, if true, would seem quite strange considerin g Hughes stance on Schwarzer not being allowed to move on this summer. Speaking of which, Arsenal have slapped a final bid of £4m down on the table for our 'keeper, but surely that wouldn't go through until we get a stopper in due to Stockdales injury last weekend.
A more odd link, considering our signing of Salcido last week, Sky Sports News HD are reporting we're in the market for Tiene Siaka. A left back currently playing Valenciennes in Spain, he appears well up for a move to England and said "I am a bit nervous but if everything can be put in place, I could fulfil my dream of joining my Ivorian colleagues in England." Though him coming in would give the left back position far more cover than we've had in a long while.
It's all shaping up to be a VERY exciting nine hours!
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6349808,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6349808,00.html?)
Duo to stay with City
Mancini holds successful talks with striker and goalkeeper
Sky Sports News understands that Emmanuel Adebayor and Shay Given will not be leaving Manchester City during the current transfer window.
The pair had been linked with moves away from Eastlands and it had been reported that they were close to switches to rival Premier League clubs.
Speculation had suggested that former Arsenal striker Adebayor was a shock loan target of Tottenham after growing frustrated at his lack of opportunities under City boss Roberto Mancinithis season.
The arrival of Mario Balotelli is thought to have added to the Togolese's rumoured unrest among City's billionaires, who he joined from the Gunners in the July of 2009.
But Sky sources understand that Adebayor will not leave City after talks with Mancini and the striker will now stay to help the club in their ambitions to finish in the top four of the Premier League.
Given was also thought to want to leave after losing his position as No.1 to England international Joe Hart and he was thought to be close to joining former City boss Mark Hughes at Fulham.
But Mancini is again said to have held successful discussions with the Republic of Irelandgoalkeeper and he will not depart City before Tuesday's 6pm transfer deadline.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/7972699/Fulham-close-in-on-loan-deal-for-Monacos-Eidur-Gudjohnsen.html? (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/7972699/Fulham-close-in-on-loan-deal-for-Monacos-Eidur-Gudjohnsen.html?)
Fulham close in on loan deal for Monaco's Eidur Gudjohnsen
Eidur Gudjohnsen is set to join Fulham in a last minute change of mind having been widely expected to sign a year-long loan deal with Stoke.
The Monaco midfielder, who spen the latter part of last season on loan with Tottenham, is understood to have opted to join Mark Hughes at London-based Fulham just hours after Stoke had come close to agreeing terms on a similar 12 month deal.
According to the Mirror, Monaco favoured the Fulham move after the club agreed to make a £2 million contribution towards the Icelandic player's salary.
Meanwhile, Fulham may have a fight on their hands to hold on to their new manager with speculation suggesting Hughes is favourite to replace Martin O'Neill at Aston Villa.
Hughes has only been in charge at Craven Cottage for a month and it is believed the only way a deal between the two clubs would materialise is if Villa were prepared to buy out the 46-year-old's contract.
http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2010/08/31/2096386/aston-villa-attempt-to-lure-mark-hughes-away-from-fulham? (http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2010/08/31/2096386/aston-villa-attempt-to-lure-mark-hughes-away-from-fulham?)
Aston Villa Attempt To Lure Mark Hughes Away From Fulham - Report
Aston Villa are preparing a surprise bid for Mark Hughes to become their new manager.
The current Fulham boss is just 33 days into his reign at Craven Cottage and The Times has reported Villa's owner, Randy Lerner, has identified Hughes as his preferred choice to replace Martin O'Neill.
It's uncertain if Hughes would be keen to open talks with the Midlands club or that Fulham chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed, is willing to allow his newly-acquired manager to leave West London.
Lerner has previously said he requires Premier League experience of his prospective manager, which would exclude USA coach Bob Bradley and Dutchman Ronald Koeman from his shortlist.
Hughes signed a two-year deal at Fulham on July 29, and has drawn all three of his Premier League games so far but he has not given any indication that he is unhappy with his new role at Craven Cottage.
Bookmaker William Hill has reduced Hughes' odds from 12-1 to 3-1 favourite after they noticed a trend in high-profile bettors backed Hughes to leave his post at Fulham for Villa Park.
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42944/Sky_Sports_pundit_lauds_superb_Liverpool_capture_.aspx? (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42944/Sky_Sports_pundit_lauds_superb_Liverpool_capture_.aspx?)
Sky Sports pundit lauds "superb" Liverpool capture
Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp has praised Roy Hodgson's efforts to sign Fulham defender Paul Konchesky, claiming the Craven Cottage stalwart is a "superb one-on-one defender".
Hodgson worked with the left-sided defender during his tenure with the Cottagers and although Konchesky's pending move to Anfield has underwhelmed many of Liverpool's fans, Redknapp suggests the 29-year-old would be an excellent addition for the club should they successfully complete the deal before the 6pm deadline today.
The former Liverpool captain and regular Sky Sports pundit, told the Daily Mail: "Liverpool fans, who may have been looking for big money signings, might not appreciate the quality of Paul Konchesky.
"But he's a good signing for Roy Hodgson, who knows what he is getting after they worked together at Fulham last season.
"I played with Paul at Spurs and he's a superb one-on-one defender, with quick feet and who loves the showdown between full-back and winger. It's hard to find good left backs. He's one of them.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12876_6349944,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12876_6349944,00.html?)
Fulham eye Drenthe deal
Dutch international can leave Real before deadline
Fulham are eyeing a move for Real Madrid ace Royston Drenthe, skysports.com understands.
Drenthe has been told he can leave Real as he does not figure in Jose Mourinho's plans at El Santiago Bernabeu.
The Dutchman was not included in Real's squad for their opening Primera Liga clash at Real Mallorca at the weekend.
French side Monaco were believed to be keen on signing the versatile left sider, but Drenthe is thought to have rejected a move to the Principality.
The news has alerted Fulham boss Mark Hughes who could now offer Drenthe an escape route out of Madrid.
Hughes is keen to bolster his squad before the close of the transfer window and Drenthe's versatility in that he can play at left-back as well as left wing makes him an attractive proposition
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/WorldCupVisit.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/WorldCupVisit.aspx?)
FIFA Team Completes England Visit
A team of FIFA inspectors concluded their visit to England on Thursday after being in the country to assess England's bid to host the FIFA World Cup™ in 2018. The six man delegation travelled to London, Sunderland, Newcastle and Manchester to inspect the technical proposals of England's bid, as well as meeting with a number of key figures in English football.
Leader of the inspection team and President of the Chilean FA, Harold Mayne-Nicholls praised the country's world class stadia and passionate fans, stating that a World Cup in England "would be a great experience with a long lasting legacy for the country and its people as well as for football worldwide."
The inspection team began their tour of England on Monday with a visit to Number 10 Downing Street to meet with Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg who confirmed the Government's full support for the bid. The group then visited Wembley Stadium where they met with England Manager, Fabio Capello.
On Tuesday the team took a river boat trip down the Thames to visit The O2 Arena as the England 2018 team described how the venue would be used for the Final Draw if the bid is successful.
The group then travelled to the north east of England – taking in a number of proposed stadiums from the air during the journey. The day concluded with a visit to Middlesbrough's Rockliffe Hall training facilities – one of the training camps included in England's bid.
Wednesday saw the inspection team visit four stadiums across three candidate host cities. The day began with a visit to Sunderland's Stadium of Light to meet with AFC Sunderland Chairman, Niall Quinn, before taking a tour of Newcastle's St James' Park led by Toon legend, Peter Beardsley.
The City of Manchester was the next stop for the delegation before ending with a visit to Old Trafford where the group met Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Bobby Charlton and Manchester United players Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney.
The inspection team's final day in England involved a number of inspirational presentations on the domestic and global impact that a World Cup in England could have on human and social development.
England will find out if its bid to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ has been successful when FIFA make their decision on 2nd December.
To show your support for England's bid, text ENGLAND to 62018 or visit www.england2018bid.com (http://www.england2018bid.com)
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/WorldCupVisit.aspx?#ixzz0yAzmyXa8 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/WorldCupVisit.aspx?#ixzz0yAzmyXa8)
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42946/Agent_Arsenal_turned_down_signing_Schwarzer_for_free.aspx (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42946/Agent_Arsenal_turned_down_signing_Schwarzer_for_free.aspx)
Agent: Arsenal turned down signing Schwarzer for free
Mark Schwarzer could have joined Arsenal on a free transfer two years ago, according to his former agent Barry Silkman.
The Australian international was offered to the Gunners as he entered his final year at Middlesbrough but ended up sealing a free move to Fulham after Arsene Wenger opted to add Pole Lukasz Fabianski as back-up to then first choice Manuel Almunia.
Schwarzer, 37, has since been the subject of two formal offers from the Gunners in the current transfer window, but with Mark Hughes unwilling to allow his number one stopper to leave without lining up a replacement it appears that the 37-year-old Premier League veteran could miss out on a chance to test himself at the highest level.
Speaking exclusively to Sport.co.uk on deadline day, agent Barry Silkman made clear that his former client is desperate to join Arsenal, recognising that it will be the final chance of his career to play for a big four club.
"His current situation is he wants to leave," Silkman stressed.
"The one thing about Mark is he is probably the nicest player, as a man, that I've ever been involved with. I've really, really got a lot of time for him. I think he'll be really frustrated and obviously you only get one chance to go to a club like Arsenal.
"It's funny actually because years ago when he was coming to the end of his contract at Middlesbrough, and he hadn't agreed an extension, I spoke with Arsenal and they didn't fancy him.
"I tell a lie, they didn't say they didn't fancy him; they just weren't sure as they had other goalkeepers on the horizon. My response was that I told them they were making a mistake, and to be honest I think they did make a mistake.
"He would have been available on a free and I think at the time they made a mistake. I'm not being biased because I was his representative, but for ten, eleven years he has been the most consistent goalkeeper in the Premier League.
"He's now got one chance to get out and obviously if he doesn't he'll be very frustrated. That's the name of the game, that's football; if a club has you under contract the bottom line is they can do what they want to do."
Reflecting on Schwarzer's current contract at Craven Cottage, Silkman believes that the player was eventually ill-advised not to have had a clause inserted allowing him to move for a million pound fee.
"If I'd have done the deal taking him to Fulham you know...if I'd been his agent on the deal I would have got a clause in there that says if a club, by some miracle, offers a million for him he should be allowed to go. He was 34/35 when he went there; I would have had that inserted into his contract for sure."
With the 6pm deadline fast approaching, Arsenal are expected to pursue Fulham with one final bid for Schwarzer with speculation mounting that a £4 million offer has been tabled.
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42954/Cascarino_New_signing_shows_Liverpool_have_lowered_their_sights.aspx? (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42954/Cascarino_New_signing_shows_Liverpool_have_lowered_their_sights.aspx?)
Cascarino: New signing shows Liverpool "have lowered their sights"
Former Republic of Ireland international Tony Cascarino believes Liverpool's imminent capture of Fulham left-back Paul Konchesky illustrates how far their stock in English football has fallen, because the 29-year-old is not good enough for any of the Premier League's top four clubs.
Liverpool are expected to complete the signing of the Fulham defender prior to today's 6pm deadline and although Cascarino suggests the fullback is a "solid performer", the player would not get into any of last season's top four clubs.
Speaking to the Times, Cascarino suggested Konchesky was the 'Signing of the week', saying: "Not because he's a great player but because of what Liverpool buying him represents.
"The left back is a good, solid performer who will help solve a problem position for the club but he's not someone the other top four contenders would ever have considered buying.
"He's not Champions League quality. How Liverpool have lowered their sights."
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=819539&sec=transfers&cc=5739 (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=819539&sec=transfers&cc=5739)
Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer staying at Fulham
Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer looks set to stay at the club in this transfer window, despite continued interest from Arsenal.
Schwarzer was the subject of a last-ditch £4 million bid from the Gunners, after earlier bids had been deemed too small, but Mark Hughes' side have not been able to find a replacement stopper and won't sell the Australian.
37-year-old Schwarzer has previously declared his desire to join Arsenal, but will now stay at Craven Cottage with England hopeful David Stockdale acting as his No. 2.
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42974/Sky_Sports_pundit_Schwarzer_not_much_better_than_Almunia_.aspx? (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/42974/Sky_Sports_pundit_Schwarzer_not_much_better_than_Almunia_.aspx?)
Sky Sports pundit: Schwarzer not much better than Almunia
Arsenal hero Paul Merson is unsure if Fulham number one Mark Schwarzer is much better than Manuel Almunia, despite Arsene Wenger's best efforts to bring the Australian to the Emirates this summer. The former Highbury star believes Manchester City stopper Shay Given would be a far better alternative to the 37-year-old and has urged the Frenchman to make the Eastlands star his top priority.
Time is running out for the Gunners to seal a deal for the veteran Premier League star, with the 6pm transfer deadline now just hours away, but Merson suggests Schwarzer would not represent a significant improvement on the much maligned Almunia.
Reports this afternoon indicate Arsenal are unlikely to secure Schwarzer's signature this summer despite offering Fulham £4 million. The recent injury sustained by David Stockdale has reportedly all but scuppered Arsenal's efforts to land Schwarzer, but Merson believes the aforementioned Manchester City goalkeeper would be a better alternative to Almunia anyway.
The Arsenal legend told skysports.com: "I played with Mark Schwarzer and he's a good goalie, but I don't know if he's that much better than Manuel Almunia.
"He has played for Middlesbrough and Fulham, but playing for Arsenal is a different kettle of fish.
"For me, Arsenal should break the bank and get Shay Given because he would save you 10 points per season.
"I'm not sure of the other two would do that. If Arsenal got Given, they would have every chance of winning the league."
http://www.wolves.co.uk/page/AcademyReportDetail/0,,10307~2140441,00.html? (http://www.wolves.co.uk/page/AcademyReportDetail/0,,10307~2140441,00.html?)
Cottagers Take The Points
Posted on: Tue 31 Aug 2010
Two goals either side of the interval helped put paid to the Academy team's hopes of taking anything from their trip to Fulham at the weekend.
The Molineux youngsters hit back through Andre Landell, this after missing a penalty, before a Fulham break saw a third goal confirming the win for The Cottagers.
Coach Mick Halsall said: "It was a good competitive game and I thought the players came out of it with a lot of credit. It was always going to be tough and from the start we were asked questions.
"It took us a while to settle down into some sort of rhythm of play but after 15 minutes I thought we were in the game.
"Although they had more possession than us, we worked well at closing their space and trying to keep them in front of us.
"I think we had the two best chances in the first half and with more accurate shooting from Liam McAlinden and John Gorman we could have taken the lead.
"But it wasn't to be and we conceded from a set play just before the break with their player getting on the end of a deep cross to the back post
"The half time team talk was all about making sure the players realised we were still in the game but within two minutes of the second half we were 2-0 down.
"We responded well and forced a clear cut penalty but, unfortunately, McAlinden missed from the spot. But we continued to press forward and eventually scored through Andre Landell.
"We showed good commitment to get forward creating at least another six decent chances but we could not finish. Then Fulham broke to the score 3-1.
"Again we continued to get at them but could not succeed in breaking them down.
"I feel we learned more from this game than from the victory against Ipswich last week. This was hard all the way through but the players stuck at it and, in the end, I thought they did well."
http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/liverpool-suffer-another-rejection-on-frustrating-? (http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/liverpool-suffer-another-rejection-on-frustrating-?)
Liverpool suffer another rejection on frustrating deadline day
Liverpool fail in attempt to sign Fulham striker Bobby Zamora
Liverpool have allegedly been rebuffed in a bid for Fulham striker Bobby Zamora.
Roy Hodgson is a known admirer of the 29-year-old having worked him during their time together at Craven Cottage, and the Telegraph reports that the Liverpool boss made an official enquiry regarding the availability of the centre-forward.
The Telegraph suggests that, while the Reds were in negotiations to sign Paul Konchesky from the Cottagers, the possibility of securing a deal for Zamora was raised with Fulham representatives.
However, the London club remain adamant that the England international is not for sale and, hence, swiftly moved to reject Liverpool's advances.
Speculation was mounting that the Merseysiders were prepared to offer a sizeable £10 million for the former West Ham forward, but Hodgson must now look elsewhere to bolster his strike-force.
The 63-year-old is desperate to add another goalscorer to his squad before the transfer window closes this evening, but says he is only interested in bringing the right man to Anfield.
"If we could get us a striker who could really take the pressure off Fernando Torres from time to time that would be very useful," he admitted.
"But we still haven't found the right man and time is running out for us.
"I think it could be the icing on the cake but I'm anxious not to bring in people who I don't think are good enough.
"Just spending money to bring someone in to say we have another player could be a mistake."
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/KoncheskyTransfer.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/KoncheskyTransfer.aspx?)
Konchesky Departs
Fulham Football Club has secured the services of promising youngsters Lauri Dalla Valle and Alex Kacaniklic from Liverpool as part of a cash plus players deal, that has seen Paul Konchesky move to Anfield.
Finnish striker Lauri Dalla Valle recently made his first team debut for Liverpool having impressed at youth team level in recent seasons. The 18-year-old scored eight goals as the Reds reached the FA Youth Final in 2009.
Swedish winger Alex Kacaniklic was also a member of Liverpool's Youth Cup team in 2009, scoring in the Final against Arsenal. Having joined Liverpool's Academy from Helsingborg in the summer of 2007, Kacaniklic was promoted to Liverpool's Reserve team after two years.
As the Club welcomes two promising future prospects it would like to also thank Paul Konchesky for all his efforts since joining Fulham in the summer of 2007.
Konchesky was an integral member of Fulham's formidable defence in recent years and played a crucial role in the Club's recent Barclays Premier League and UEFA Europa League successes. The Club would like to wish Paul every success for his future with Liverpool FC.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/KoncheskyTransfer.aspx?#ixzz0yBzM7cUP (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/KoncheskyTransfer.aspx?#ixzz0yBzM7cUP)
http://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/Fulham-chase-Roma-keeper-.6504728.jp (http://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/Fulham-chase-Roma-keeper-.6504728.jp)
Fulham chase Roma keeper
Fulham are hoping to push through a last-ditch loan deal for Roma goalkeeper Doni, according to Sky Sports.
The Brazilian shot-stopper is currently out of favour in the Italian capital and could be on his way to the Premier League, with The Cottagers keen to snap him up on a season-long loan.
With Mark Schwarzer heavily linked with a move to Arsenal, Mark Hughes had hoped to land Manchester City's Shay Given but the Blues have refused to discuss a move.
Fulham have made it clear that they will not let the Aussie leave during this transfer window, but if they are successfully bring in suitable cover, they may consider allowing Schwarzer to move to the Emirates.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/InternationalCallUps.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/InternationalCallUps.aspx?)
Fulham Internationals
Qualification for Euro 2012 kicks-off on Friday with eight Fulham players involved for their respective nations.
Close to home, Chris Baird and Aaron Hughes have been selected by Northern Ireland for Friday's clash against Slovenia in Maribor whilst Damien Duff and Stephen Kelly have been selected by the Republic of Ireland for two qualifying matches.
The Fulham duo will travel to Yerevan for Friday's match against Armenia before heading home to Dublin for Tuesday's qualifier against Andorra.
Fulham's Norwegian contingent, Brede Hangeland and Bjorn Helge Riise, head to Reykjavik for Friday's head-to-head with Iceland before a home tie against Portugal in Oslo on Tuesday.
Following his return to the international scene with Hungary, Zoltan Gera will be in action twice over the next week, first against Sweden in Solna before entertaining Moldova in Budapest.
After making a scintillating start to his Fulham career, Moussa Dembele heads home to Brussels for Friday's qualifier against Germany, before his Belgium team take on Turkey in Istanbul on Tuesday.
Further afield three Fulham players will be taking part in Continental Qualifiers in Africa. John Pantsil will team up with up Ghana for Sunday's match against Swaziland in Lobamba whilst Rafik Halliche returns home to Blida for Algeria's game against Tanzania. Saturday's goal scoring hero, Dickson Etuhu, has been selected by Nigeria for Sunday's qualifier against Madagascar in Abuja.
Carlos Salcido will also be collecting plenty of air miles over the next week, as he returns home to Mexico for two friendly matches against Ecuador on Saturday in Guadalajara, and Columbia on Tuesday in Monterrey.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/InternationalCallUps.aspx?#ixzz0yCanc6x8 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/August/InternationalCallUps.aspx?#ixzz0yCanc6x8)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6350949,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6350949,00.html?)
Fulham to offer Zamora deal
Striker poised for lucrative new contract
Fulham are poised to offer star striker Bobby Zamora the most lucrative contract in the club's history after warding off suitors of the player, skysports.com understands.
The West London club are keen to keep hold of the 29-year-old and they are in talks over a bumper new deal to fend off interest from rival clubs.
Zamora, who has been ruled out of England's squad for their forthcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers because of a thigh injury, has one year left on his current deal and Fulham are desperate to secure his long-term future.
Fulham have reportedly rejected overtures this summer from the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham, Sunderland, Birmingham, Juventus and Schalke for the England international.
Zamora, who played a key role in Fulham's march to the Europa League final last season, has started this campaign in fine style with a number of eye-catching performances.
Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson was in the market for a new striker and is believed to have sounded out a move for Zamora, while Spurs chief Harry Redknapp is also a huge admirer of the forward.
Sunderland expressed an interest in Zamora as they saw him as an ideal replacement for Kenwyne Jones following his departure to Stoke.
Birmingham have held a long-term interest in Zamora and are thought to have had several bids rejected for the former West Ham man this summer.
Fulham were determined to fight off the interest in Zamora as he is a key part of Mark Hughes' plans at Craven Cottage and they are keen to give the forward the most lucrative deal in their history to reward him for his loyalty.
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/8748/exclusive-fulham-launch-late-bid-spurs-star? (http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/8748/exclusive-fulham-launch-late-bid-spurs-star?)
Exclusive - Fulham launch late bid for Spurs star
Fulham are in talks over a season-long move for Tottenham midfielder David Bentley, talkSPORT understands.
The 26-year-old has struggled to force his way into Spurs boss Harry Redknapp's plans and has never settled in north London since his £16m move from Blackburn two years ago.
Cottagers boss Mark Hughes is a big fan of Bentley from their time together at Rovers, but faces a race against time to get his man with the transfer window shutting at 6pm.
