http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/09/dont-panic/ (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/09/dont-panic/)
Don't panic!
by Tor on September 16, 2010
Well, bums. That's pretty much all I can say in response to the news that Bobby Zamora faces a 5 month absence following the surgery on his broken leg and ligament damage. Much has already been said about how Mousa Dembele is keen to step up to fill the void (not that he'd have much choice about it anyway), and how Andy Johnson should be back and fighting fit next month and is also keen to prove himself.
The thing that worries me is that talk of Bobby's injury has seemingly been accompanied by a tone of deep foreboding, like this is signalling the end of our season. In September. Don't get me wrong, I think Zamora's a brilliant player and was an integral part of the team, but it's a bit harsh on the rest of the squad to say that, essentially, it doesn't matter what they do, we're doomed to fail. Charming.
We've got Dembele, Dempsey, Davies and Gera who are all more than capable of scoring goals. We've an experienced and effective midfield. We'll have a solid defence when Pantsil gets his mojo back (where did he get the collywobbles from? Answers on a postcard please). We've a squad jam-packed with bloody good players and the whole point of football is that it's a team game. Bobby's absence, whilst being a big blow, is not going to mean relegation or even, necessarily, a bottom half finish.
Just you wait and see.
http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/09/16/johnson_comeback_will_not_be_rushed_despite_zamora_blow (http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/09/16/johnson_comeback_will_not_be_rushed_despite_zamora_blow)
Johnson comeback will not be rushed despite Zamora blow
Fulham manager Mark Hughes insists Andy Johnson will not be rushed back to compensate for the loss of Bobby Zamora.
Hughes confirmed Zamora will be sidelined for at least five months after fears he had sustained ankle ligament damage in last Saturday's 2-1 victory over Wolves proved correct.
With the England striker and Fulham's most dangerous player out for half the season, the pressure has grown on Johnson to make his comeback.
The club's record £10.5million signing from Everton missed most of last season with a knee injury but is three to four weeks away from a return to first-team action. Hughes, however, will only pick the former England marksman if he is fully fit.
"We don't want to rush Andy. He's had experience of trying to get back too soon as a consequence of his enthusiasm to be playing," he said. "Unfortunately in the past he's come back too soon and that's cost him, preventing him from sustaining his fitness.
"We're not of the view that we must bring him back quickly even though we've lost Bobby. It's more important for Andy that he's clear in his mind that he's 100% when he does return. When Andy does come back he'll be in and around the first team for a significant amount of time and that will help us get through the loss of Bobby."
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213429 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213429)
Fulham - Arsenal Move Just A Distant Memory?
It really does look as if any hopes Mark Schwarzer had of making a January switch to the Emirates Stadium, following the stalling of a summer move, are diminishing by the day.
Schwarzer, set to continue between the sticks up at Ewood Park this Saturday afternoon, has expressed an apparent desire to leave Craven Cottage, probably at the expiration of his current contract.
But, any sneaking desire for a possible resurrection of that summer move to Arsenal seems doomed to failure with several gossip columns now inferring that Arsene Wenger fancies taking the German keeper Manuel Neurer, from Schalke!
I`d suggest that`s not what Mark was hoping to hear!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213429#ixzz0zlemZcm7 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213429#ixzz0zlemZcm7)
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213428 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213428)
Fulham - Not for Zamora!
Watching Antonio Valencia suffering an injury of a similar bad nature to his own, the other night, couldn`t have made great viewing for our Bobby Zamora.
With his leg encased in plaster, following his recent operation to repair the damaged bones, Bobby has openly admitted that he has no intention of watching the tackle that caused him such heartache, involving the Wolves defender Karl Henry, again.
Can`t say I really blame him, can you?
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213428#ixzz0zlf8q2pL (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213428#ixzz0zlf8q2pL)
Quote from: WhiteJC on September 17, 2010, 07:59:14 AM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213429 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213429)
Fulham - Arsenal Move Just A Distant Memory?
It really does look as if any hopes Mark Schwarzer had of making a January switch to the Emirates Stadium, following the stalling of a summer move, are diminishing by the day.
Schwarzer, set to continue between the sticks up at Ewood Park this Saturday afternoon, has expressed an apparent desire to leave Craven Cottage, probably at the expiration of his current contract.
But, any sneaking desire for a possible resurrection of that summer move to Arsenal seems doomed to failure with several gossip columns now inferring that Arsene Wenger fancies taking the German keeper Manuel Neurer, from Schalke!
I`d suggest that`s not what Mark was hoping to hear!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213429#ixzz0zlemZcm7 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=213429#ixzz0zlemZcm7)
I don't blame Arsene, I wouldn't want this flip flopper on my team either.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6380167,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6380167,00.html)
Hughes - I won't rush Johnson
Cottagers boss says striker's recovery will not be hurried
Fulham boss Mark Hughes insists he will not rush Andy Johnson's return from injury to balance the loss of Bobby Zamora.
Hughes confirmed on Thursday Zamora will be out for at least five months after sustaining ankle ligament damage during last Saturday's 2-1 triumph over Wolves.
Zamora's injury has put fellow forward Johnson, who missed most of last season with a knee problem and is still three to four weeks away from a first-team comeback, under pressure to make a swift return.
But Hughes insists he will only play the Cottagers' record £10.5million signing if he is 100 per cent fit.
Rush
"We don't want to rush Andy. He's had experience of trying to get back too soon as a consequence of his enthusiasm to be playing," said Hughes.
"Unfortunately in the past he's come back too soon and that's cost him, preventing him from sustaining his fitness.
"We're not of the view that we must bring him back quickly even though we've lost Bobby.
"It's more important for Andy that he's clear in his mind that he's 100% when he does return.
"When Andy does come back he'll be in and around the first team for a significant amount of time and that will help us get through the loss of Bobby."
Johnson's two-year spell at Craven Cottage has been plagued by injury, with a combination of knee, shoulder and groin problems punctuating his time at the club.
Hughes is confident the player will not suffer long-term side-effects from his latest set back, but did sound caution with Johnson still some distance from match fitness.
Positive
The manager added: "Andy's been out for a long time but the medical staff have done a really good job on him and he's really positive.
"All the tests we've done show that he's either on a par or even surpassing some of the levels he was hitting before the injury.
"You can measure straight line runs and sprints off the mark, but we haven't tested him in a match situation yet."
http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/09/dirty-wolves.html (http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/09/dirty-wolves.html)
Craven Cottagers
Following the 2007/8, 2008/9, 2009/10 and 2010/11 seasons at Craven Cottage - recounted by season ticket holders who aren't actually Fulham fans.
Dirty Wolves
I wasn't at the Wolves game, Jarrod said he's going to write it up sometime (don't hold your breath). But there have been lots of repercussions from the game. Bobby Zamora's broken leg is obviously key for Fulham over the next five months and could well change how the team plays in his absence. Hodgson would have thrown Elm into the mix, but it seems that Hughes would rather Eddie Johnson and (when fit again) Andy Johnson and Dio Kamara. Not to mention Dembele as well.
Watching the highlights of the game (which you can see here) it seems that Wolves did nothing to rid themselves of the 'dirty' tag that the media placed on them after they did a number on Joey Barton, but I think it should be more 'Cynical Wolves'. They were full of the snide this tug backs and 'black arts' that Scotland faced in Lithuania (and Juventus tried at the Cottage in March but were pulled up by a stronger referee).
It will be interesting to see how Hughes now approaches the tricky League Cup tie away at Stoke City now. Stoke played a strong side against Shrewsbury in the last round, but a weakened team last year when they eventually lost 4-0 at Portsmouth. Whether Tony Pulis has had a change of heart about the competition will play a big part in whether Fulham will progress to the fourth round.
Posted by Bad Andy
http://www.sportingintelligence.com/2010/09/16/west-ham-and-fulham-seek-atonement-on-the-road-160906/ (http://www.sportingintelligence.com/2010/09/16/west-ham-and-fulham-seek-atonement-on-the-road-160906/)
West Ham and Fulham seek atonement on the road
By Brian Sears
(http://www.sportingintelligence.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Atonement-300x225.jpg)
West Ham and Fulham have an unwanted statistic in common, one that both hope to ditch this weekend.
It concerns away days, bad ones, lots of bad ones. On the very first day of last season, Fulham went to Fratton Park and a Zamora goal allowed them to return with all three points. On the same day, West Ham were at Molineux where goals from Noble and Upson ensured a 2-0 victory. The fans from east and west London must have been contemplating fruitful journeyings around the country. How they must have dreamt of the many super away days to come. All the achievement ahead. All those points. Yet neither club has managed a single away Premier League win since then, in 20 attempts each.
Both are looking for atonement of a football kind, as Fulham travel to Blackburn, and West Ham play at Stoke at lunchtime on Saturday, although West Ham will play at Stoke without their manager. Avram Grant will miss the match to observe Yom Kippur, aka the Day of Atonement, one of the most significant events in the Jewish calendar. Yom Kippur falls on 17 and 18 September this year, and West Ham announced earlier this week that they "fully respect and understand" Grant's absence at this time of fasting and prayer.
No other Premier League clubs aside from the Hammers and Fulham have been winless on their travels so long, and in the whole of the Football League only Hull and Gillingham have gone longer since an away win. Over the last 20 games both Fulham and West Ham have come close in claiming an elusive win; Fulham have had nine draws and West Ham six.
Away wins generally have been thin on the ground so far this season. There have been only eight in the 40 games played, with Chelsea and Blackpool grabbing two each for themselves. Mark Hughes must already be wrestling with the endemic problem of Fulham's inability to pick up away wins. In their nine and a bit seasons feasting at the top table, Fulham have only managed 23 away wins in their 173 games away from Craven Cottage. Sunderland in their nine and a bit seasons have won 28 of their 173 games but have been relegated three times!
Fulham's continuing survival is down to their form at the Cottage and that they have picked up as many as 59 points in away draws, including two already this season.
http://tribalfootball.com/mccarthy-defends-%E2%80%98dirty%E2%80%99-wolves-1120221 (http://tribalfootball.com/mccarthy-defends-%E2%80%98dirty%E2%80%99-wolves-1120221)
McCarthy defends 'dirty' Wolves
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy has defended his players after they were labeled 'dirty' following the clash with Fulham on the weekend.
Club captain Karl Henry was involved in the tackle that broke the leg of Fulham striker Bobby Zamora at Craven Cottage on Saturday and a red card to Christophe Berra was the straw that broke the camel's back after 14 yellow cards in two matches were handed out to Wolves.
But manager McCarthy has come to the defence of the club saying that they do not go out to harm opponents.
"We are not dirty," he said.
"Our whole club felt deeply for Bobby (Zamora). I believe Karl Henry has spoken to him, which I would have expected him to do.
"Sadly, especially for Bobby, those things happen. It was genuine of Danny Murphy to say it as an accident. But what concerns me from all of this is that there wasn't a bad tackle in that game.
"And I've watched it twice. I went through the bookings last week. Two obstructions for Berra, a slight shirt-tug for Michael Mancienne.
"There was nothing malicious at Fulham and there we are with seven bookings and a sending-off. I know what I make of it."
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/09/17/stephen-kelly-sends-fulham-full-back-warning-82029-27283073/ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/09/17/stephen-kelly-sends-fulham-full-back-warning-82029-27283073/)
Stephen Kelly sends Fulham full-back warning
STEPHEN Kelly has warned boss Mark Hughes he's no longer prepared to sit on the sidelines.
The Irishman spent most of last season waiting in the wings as John Pantsil and Paul Konchesky made Fulham's full-back spots their own.
Kelly only made eight appearances in the league under Roy Hodgson, but has been an almost ever-present this time around.
The Dublin-born defender has filled the void on the left following Konchesky's move to Liverpool, but now faces competition from Mexican international Carlos Salcido for the spot.
However, Kelly has warned he expects to be in the starting XI for tomorrow's trip to Blackburn.
He said: "My performances over the past couple of games on the left have warranted me given a chance on my natural side.
"I've been playing well out of position, so I think if Carlos had been available I hopefully would've been given a chance at right-back.
"There's a lot of competition for places at full-back, but I think I've played well enough to keep my place in the team, whether that be at right-back or left-back."
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/09/17/stephen-kelly-sends-fulham-full-back-warning-82029-27283073/#ixzz0zlhZEgh2 (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/09/17/stephen-kelly-sends-fulham-full-back-warning-82029-27283073/#ixzz0zlhZEgh2)
http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/6381771/Sparky-backs-Sam-for-England-job (http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/6381771/Sparky-backs-Sam-for-England-job)
Sparky backs Sam for England job
Fulham boss Mark Hughes believes Blackburn counterpart Sam Allardyce will be a strong candidate for the England job in two years time.
Hughes will revisit the club he managed between 2004 and 2008 when the Cottagers travel to Rovers in the Premier League on Saturday.
Allardyce eventually succeeded Hughes in 2008 after Paul Ince's ill-fated reign had been brought to an early conclusion.
The Welshman admires Allardyce and believes he has a chance of replacing Fabio Capello when he steps down as England coach in 2008, but questions whether his tactics would suit the international stage.
Hughes said: "Sam's record in the Premier League stands comparison with any British, England or foreign manager at the level of the clubs he's been at.
"He's a successful Premier League manager and the view at this time is that England need an English manager.
"I also hold that view because it's important that a country is led by someone of the same nationality.
"Sam has made his mark in the Premier League, which is the strongest league in world football.
"If you can get positive results in this league you're a good manager.
"Whether the way Sam sets up his team lends itself to international management is a debate for another day.
"But certainly his record in terms of game won makes him a strong candidate."
Winger Damien Duff returns against his former club after recovering from a calf injury, but Fulham will be missing Bobby Zamora for at least five months.
The England striker suffered ankle ligament damage as well as a broken fibula in last Saturday's 2-1 win over Wolves.
"The operation showed there was ligament damage, which we hoped there wouldn't be. We're probably looking at five months plus," said Hughes.
"There's no concern over his ability to get back and play to the same level that he was at before the injury.
"To lose him for the length of time we are means other players will have to step up to the mark."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7943373/Blackburn-Rovers-v-Fulham-match-preview.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7943373/Blackburn-Rovers-v-Fulham-match-preview.html)
Blackburn Rovers v Fulham: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League match between Blackburn Rovers and Fulham at Ewood Park on Saturday Sept 18 2010, kick-off 15:00 BST.
Blackburn (Possible, 4-1-4-1): Robinson; Salgado, Nelsen, Samba, Givet; Grella; M Diouf, Jones, Pedersen, E Diouf; Kalinic.
Fulham (Possible, 4-4-1-1): Schwarzer; Pantsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Kelly; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey; Gera; Dembele.
Referee: Anthony Taylor. Matches: 1. R1 Y6.
Tale of the game
Blackburn are unbeaten in their last five home games against Fulham, winning four and drawing one. But they have gone three games without a win, since the opening day of the season.
Fulham have not won away from home in 20 Premier League games, since they won 1-0 at Portsmouth on the opening day of last season.
Blackburn, who have scored in each of the last eight Premier League games, test Michel Salgado and Ryan Nelsen, both of whom were injured in last Saturday's 1-1 draw at Manchester City. Keith Andrews is still missing.
Mark Hughes, the Fulham manager, face his former club but has more serious problems, particularly in attack. Andrew Johnson is still recovering from a knee problem and now Bobby Zamora is missing after fracturing his leg last weekend. But Fulham have won only eight games in 37 visits in the League to Ewood Park.
Diomansy Kamara and Philippe Senderos are also out while there are doubts over Damien Duff and David Stockdale.
Last season: Fulham 3 Blackburn 0, Blackburn 2 Fulham 0
Stat of the game: Fulham are bidding to win consecutive games for the first time in 16, following the 2-1 victory over Wolves.
Betting tip: Fulham don't do away wins. Try a 2-1 home win at 8-1.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/9004921.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/9004921.stm)
Blackburn v Fulham
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/49125000/gif/_49125199_bla_ful_0506.gif)
Blackburn are strong at home and because of the way they play it is very difficult for teams to go there and win. It's very hard to stop Blackburn playing in their style and Fulham may struggle.
Obviously with Fulham boss Mark Hughes going back to Blackburn it will add a little bit of an edge but the loss of Bobby Zamora, who broke his leg at the weekend, is a massive blow for the Cottagers.
Prediction: 2-1
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/09/17/win-fulham-v-everton-tickets-82029-27283075/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/09/17/win-fulham-v-everton-tickets-82029-27283075/?)
Win Fulham v Everton tickets!
FANCY watching Fulham v Everton for FREE?
EA SPORTS™, the Official Sports Technology Partner of the Premier League, has teamed up with the Chronicle to offer one lucky reader a pair of tickets to be at Craven Cottage on Saturday, September 25. The winner will also receive a copy of FIFA 11.
EA SPORTS is the proud sponsor of the Premier League Player Performance Index. The EA SPORTS Player Performance Index is the Barclay Premier League's official statistical index of all 20 Barclays Premier League teams. Midfielder Simon Davies is currently the highest ranked Fulham player in the PPI.
The EA SPORTS Team of the Week will be available at www.premierleague.com (http://www.premierleague.com) after each round of the Barclays Premier League. The team will be based on ratings from the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index.
To stand a chance of winning, simply answer the following question:
Which Fulham player is the highest ranked in the PPI?
To enter, go to our Facebook page and post your answer underneath the question.
The closing date for entries is midday next Tuesday, September 21. The winner will be notified within 24 hours.
Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/09/17/win-fulham-v-everton-tickets-82029-27283075/?#ixzz0zlwKf8bY (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/09/17/win-fulham-v-everton-tickets-82029-27283075/?#ixzz0zlwKf8bY)
http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_1_4437_club-focus-fulham-how-does-hughes-solve-a-problem-like-zamora.html? (http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_1_4437_club-focus-fulham-how-does-hughes-solve-a-problem-like-zamora.html?)
Club Focus - Fulham - How does Hughes solve a problem like Zamora?
By Matt Domm
With the announcement Bobby Zamora's injury is to keep him out until February at the earliest, the Blackburn Rovers game this Saturday takes on a lot of significance. Not only does Mark Hughes return to one of his former clubs, but he will also need to quickly establish his new approach to the season without Zamora, around whom much of Fulham's attacking play revolved.
In recent interviews, the Welshman pinpointed Moussa Dembele as the man who must take on much of the attacking burden. A different type of forward, certainly, and despite his extremely impressive start to his Premier League career it would be unfair to expect the Belgian to perform the role Zamora manages so effortlessly. The 23-year-old's game is about direct, skilful running and frightening the opposition defence. While Zamora too terrifies his opponents, the Englishman is a more recognised outlet for bringing his teammates into play. It is a shame for the Fulham faithful that the blossoming Zamora-Dembele partnership - with the Belgian roaming around the forward areas - has been stopped before it could get going, but there is enough remaining in the Whites' squad to suggest a reshuffle could continue the momentum so far achieved.
Although Dembele cannot be expected to be the target-man, holding up play and out-muscling defences as Zamora does, with a slight change of tack and playing the ball into the Belgian's feet, the focus could change without losing much of its effectiveness. While Dembele is the exact sort of player a manager could want playing off the big English centre-forward, he has fortunately struck up a decent understanding on the pitch with Clint Dempsey, and the victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend was testament to that. Dempsey himself has been used by previous managers as an emergency centre-forward, particularly to cover Zamora's injuries, but he has not been effective enough to warrant replacing the big man for most of the season, which is the current requirement. Instead, a fluid front pairing of the American and Dembele could be tested, and might well be successful.
Both players have excellent footballing brains. The understanding Dempsey had with Erik Nevland - who was another very clever footballer - underlines his intelligence on the pitch. Dembele, although still early days, has already shown he can find and use space to benefit the team, and knows when to take on a man. With Dempsey picking the ball up from deep and Dembele working the channels to stretch defences, a promising partnership could well develop. Of course, with neither man a recognised out-and-out forward, such a tactic could well prove to be a risk, especially considering they are arguably not known for their physical prowess - certainly not as Zamora is. Only Hughes knows what he has in mind, but the Blackburn game will tell him a lot about the physical capabilities of whichever player or players he selects to lead the line.
Some good news from an injury perspective is Andy Johnson is reported to be only a month away from a return to first-team action. The striker has had a terrible last 12 months since being borderline-assaulted last August against Amkar Perm. He returned early from the collarbone break from that incident, which caused further injury complications. Ironically it was the loss of Johnson that forced Zamora to step up his game, and everyone knows that result. With few recognised strikers in the squad, the return of Johnson will be a welcome boost for Hughes, and although a polar opposite striker to Zamora, he will almost certainly help the team going forward with still plenty of doubters to win over.
A huge physical test awaits Hughes' men at the weekend, especially without Zamora, and with the combined problems of Fulham's ever-poor away form and Blackburn's excellent home record not many will be predicting an away win. But this team have showed plenty in their two away games so far to suggest a win on the road is forthcoming. As long as those who are physical presences, such as Brede Hangeland and Dickson Etuhu, do not let Sam Allardyce's men get away with any bullying, then there is no reason why the away-day wins account could not be opened on Saturday.
The biggest question mark is, as mentioned, what strategy is now best up front, but if Hughes gets the right answer - and soon - then the loss of star-man Zamora need not alter the season as much as it potentially might. Even a point would show that this Fulham side is up for the challenge.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/3141498/Premier-League-stars-hired-14-vice-girls-and-tranny-for-party.html
Exclusive
Prem stars 'hired 14 vice girls and tranny for party'
By NICK PARKER Chief Foreign Correspondent
Published: Today
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PREMIER League soccer stars were at the centre of a vice probe last night amid claims that they hired 14 hookers and a transvestite for a wild after-match party.
Arsenal striker Carlos Vela and Fulham defender Carlos Salcido celebrated with Mexico team-mates at their squad's hotel following their 1-0 friendly win over Colombia last week.
But the Mexican FA was yesterday probing newspaper and internet reports that vice girls joined the early-hours knees-up.
At party ... Vela with tranny GemaVela, who scored twice in the Gunners' 6-0 thrashing of FC Braga on Wednesday, and Salcido were among three players pictured cosying up to a blonde called Gema, apparently unaware "she" was a transvestite.
The embarrassing snaps were posted on the Mexican La Aficion sports website yesterday, beside images from Gema's own site, on which she offers a menu of kinky sex services.
Players last night denied they had paid vice girls - and insisted they had innocently hired a hotel ballroom for a celebration with family and friends after abandoning a planned night out due to security fears.
Salcido, 30, said: "If there is a fine to pay, I will accept it. I offer a personal apology, but the papers say we hired 15 prostitutes including a transvestite - and that did not happen.
"We had a few drinks, but that is as far as it went."
All smiles ... Salcido, right, and with blondeSalcido said he had no idea the girl he posed with for pictures was a transvestite.
Vela, 21, was unavailable for comment last night.
Mexican papers El Universal and Diario de Mexico also published the claims about the private party in the city of Monterrey - which was said to have cost around £1,600.
Reports claimed the entire Mexico team was involved in the event. There is NO suggestion that any of the footballers had sex with the girls at the bash, which began at midnight.
Local newspaper Record ran pictures showing scantily-clad women leaving the city's swish Camino Real Hotel at 6am. One was clutching a Mexico shirt. FA director Nestor de la Torre launched a probe after learning players had flouted rules preventing them from taking women back to their hotel.
Record did not refer to the women as prostitutes, but other media have described them as prostitutes or sex workers.
La Aficion.com described Gema as a transvestite sex worker, but added: "It has not been shown if she was hired by one of the players, or if they simply met in the hotel at the invitation of another guest."
Decio de Maria Serrano, Secretary of the Mexican FA, said: "We will carry out an evaluation and collect information.
"Nobody is justifying (what happened), but nor should we make it bigger than it is. We are public personalities and must behave properly because there are people who will evaluate us and make judgements."
http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/6381947/Duff-could-be-ready-to-face-Rovers? (http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/6381947/Duff-could-be-ready-to-face-Rovers?)
Duff could be ready to face Rovers
Fulham winger Damien Duff should be available for Saturday's Premier League clash with Blackburn after recovering from a calf injury.
Bobby Zamora is out for five months (broken fibula/ankle ligament damage) while Andrew Johnson (knee) is three to four weeks away from a first-team return.
Rafik Halliche and Fredrik Stoor (both groin) are doubts while Philippe Senderos (Achilles) is a long-term absentee.
Diomansy Kamara (foot) is back in training but David Stockdale (ankle) has three more weeks on the sidelines.
Fulham (from): Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Kelly, Pantsil, Salcido, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Halliche, Gera, Murphy, Duff, Riise, Etuhu, Dempsey, Greening, Davies, Dikgacoi, Elm, Dembele, Briggs.
http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/09/you-can-prove-anything-with-statistics.html? (http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/09/you-can-prove-anything-with-statistics.html?)
Craven Cottagers
Following the 2007/8, 2008/9, 2009/10 and 2010/11 seasons at Craven Cottage - recounted by season ticket holders who aren't actually Fulham fans.
You can prove anything with statistics
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5bXodAX9ec/TJMiUMFgbfI/AAAAAAAAAJs/jWljRhmqts0/s640/disciplinarytable.jpg)
With 74 fouls conceded, 14 (should that be 15?) yellow cards and one red card, they are statistically the dirtiest team in the Premier League by some margin.
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/43798/Hughes_to_make_Blackburn_return.aspx (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/43798/Hughes_to_make_Blackburn_return.aspx)
Hughes to make Blackburn return
Mark Hughes comes up against one of his former clubs when he takes Fulham to Ewood Park to face Blackburn Rovers.
Hughes spent four years in charge of the Lancashire club before leaving for Manchester City and then being handed the reins of the London club during the summer.
He has hit the ground running with the Cottagers after guiding them to one win and three draws in the opening four games of the new Premier League season.
However, Blackburn are no slouches either this term after winning one, drawing one and losing two in the opening weeks of the campaign.
Blackburn held big-spending Manchester City to a 1-1 draw at Eastlands last weekend and will take great heart from their ability to take a point off a side fancied to feature heavily in the title mix.
Defeats to Arsenal (2-1) and Birmingham City (2-1) had followed an impressive 1-0 opening day win over Everton to leave current boss Sam Allardyce lamenting a lack of firepower.
Fulham followed up back-to-back opening stalemates with Bolton (0-0) and Manchester United (2-2) with a 2-2 draw with newcomers Blackpool and a narrow 2-1 victory over Wolves last weekend.
Summer signing Moussa Dembele scored both goals and he will be expected to carry the burden in the absence of Bobby Zamora.
Zamora is facing five months on the sidelines with a broken leg picked up in a challenge with Wolves' Karl Henry last weekend.
With fellow attackers Andy Johnson (knee) and Diomansy Kamara (ankle) still missing, these are testing times for former centre forward Hughes.
Phillipe Senderos (Achilles) and goalkeeper David Stockdale (ankle) are also still unavailable, but Damien Duff (calf) could return.
Blackburn will gave late fitness tests to skipper Ryan Nelsen (ankle) and midfielder Keith Andrews (groin), but veteran full-back Michel Salgado (thigh) looks set to miss out.
Midfield playmaker David Dunn has another week of training under his belt and is likely to return to the starting line-up.
Last season resulted in home wins when these two clubs went head to head.
Fulham won 3-0 at Craven Cottage in November while Rovers triumphed 2-0 at Ewood Park in January.
Blackburn also won both encounters during the 2008/09 season and have recent history on their side in this fixture.
http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/Fulham-v-Blackburn-Rovers-Latest.6537195.jp? (http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/sport/Fulham-v-Blackburn-Rovers-Latest.6537195.jp?)
Fulham v Blackburn Rovers: Latest team news
Published Date: 17 September 2010
Fulham winger Damien Duff should be available for tomorrow's Barclays Premier League clash with Blackburn after recovering from a calf injury.
Bobby Zamora is out for five months (broken fibula/ankle ligament damage) while Andrew Johnson (knee) is three to four weeks away from a first team return.
Rafik Halliche and Fredrik Stoor (both groin) are doubts while Philippe Senderos (Achilles) is a long-term absentee.
Diomansy Kamara (foot) is back in training but David Stockdale (ankle) has three more weeks on the sidelines.
Team (from): Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Kelly, Pantsil, Salcido, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Halliche, Gera, Murphy, Duff, Riise, Etuhu, Dempsey, Greening, Davies, Dikgacoi, Elm, Dembele, Briggs.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/HughesOnSchwarzer.aspx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/HughesOnSchwarzer.aspx)
Mark Of Respect (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Schwarzer/SchwarzerWarmUp.jpg)
Mark Schwarzer returned to First Team action for Fulham last weekend and produced a faultless performance in goal as Fulham secured three points against Wolves.
Following a summer of speculation surrounding the Australian international's future, Mark Hughes praised Schwarzer's professionalism ahead of Saturday's clash against Blackburn|, whilst noting the outstanding reception the keeper received last weekend at the Cottage.
"He's [Schwarzer] made a real mark here and been part of the Club's recent success so that [applause at the Cottage] was a show of respect," Hughes told fulhamfc.com. "It was due and it was really good for him.
"He's a good professional and I didn't think there would be any difference in his daily work or approach to games [following the summer speculation]. It was never a worry for me and he's getting on with his job.
"We weren't receptive to any bids because Mark's too important to us. We would much rather he was here helping us win Premier League games.
"His immediate future is here at Fulham and we're hopeful we can show him where we want to go and what we want to do in the future. Obviously I've made it known to him that I want him to be a part of that."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/HughesOnSchwarzer.aspx#ixzz0zmTE99Id (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/HughesOnSchwarzer.aspx#ixzz0zmTE99Id)
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/FridayTeamNews.aspx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/FridayTeamNews.aspx)
Team News(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Duff/DuffNews.jpg)
Manager Mark Hughes is hopeful Damien Duff will be fighting fit for Saturday's game against Blackburn Rovers whilst there are two defensive fitness concerns ahead of Saturday's Barclays Premier League encounter at Ewood Park|.
"Damien's [Duff] had a couple of training sessions and he should be available for selection on Saturday," Hughes revealed to fulhamfc.com.
"Rafik Halliche got a slight tweak in his groin and it's fifty-fifty whether he'll be involved against Blackburn. Fredrik Stoor also pulled up with a slight strain to the groin in training so he's a doubt as well."
Hughes will no doubt receive a warm reception at Ewood Park this weekend and Fulham's new Manager drew comparisons between the two Clubs before the Team travelled to Blackburn for Saturday's match.
"It's [Blackburn] a great club with great people and I draw comparisons between the quality of people there and the quality of people here at Fulham.
"That's a big positive from my point of view because you're only as good as the people who support you.
"I was able to be successful at Blackburn because everyone wanted me to do well and I sense that's the same here at Fulham."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/FridayTeamNews.aspx#ixzz0zmTl1LwE (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/FridayTeamNews.aspx#ixzz0zmTl1LwE)
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/43809/The_way_he_has_responded_to_the_challenge_has_been_absolutely_outstanding.aspx (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/43809/The_way_he_has_responded_to_the_challenge_has_been_absolutely_outstanding.aspx)
"The way he has responded to the challenge has been absolutely outstanding"
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has hailed the attitude of goalkeeper Manuel Almunia and stressed that the Spaniard has his full support after retaining his place as first choice stopper at the Emirates.
The 33-year-old's future in north London looked to be under a cloud this summer as the Gunners twice lodged bids with Fulham for Australian international Mark Schwarzer . Nevertheless, with each offer rebuffed Almunia has maintained his standing in the Arsenal pecking and since started each of his side's four Premier League matches and Wednesday's Champions League tie with Braga.
Speaking about his admiration for Almunia, French coach Wenger told Arsenal's shareholders:
"Our goalkeepers have been exposed to a lot of pressure in the summer and there was a lot of speculation
"Their mental strength was tested more than ever. But when you are an Arsenal footballer you have to live with that. In every position you know you can be challenged - that is part of the job. The goalkeepers understand and accept that.
"I believe we have four very, very good goalkeepers. Manuel Almunia is in front at the moment because of his quality and the way he accepted what happened to him. Since the start of the season the way he has responded to the challenge has been absolutely outstanding. That is why I give him my full support.
"It is sometimes easy to reduce that fact we dropped points [last season] to the fault of the goalkeeper. Normally in any goal you have four or five mistakes. But the keeper has the last.
"You can take any goalkeeper and they all make mistakes."
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/HughesOnBobby.aspx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/HughesOnBobby.aspx)
Bobby Positive
Mark Hughes discussed Bobby Zamora's injury on Thursday afternoon and revealed the striker was in positive spirits after suffering a serious injury at the Cottage against Wolves.
Last Sunday morning Zamora underwent a successful operation and Hughes is confident that the England international will return as strong as ever under the supervision of the Club's Sports Medicine and Exercise Science department.
"Bobby's had his operation and he'll be in bed with his leg elevated for about two weeks and then he'll begin the long process to fitness," Hughes told fulhamfc.com.
"The minimum it [Zamora's absence] was going to be was four months and obviously after the operation there was ligament damage and that is going to add a bit more time.
"He's out for a long time but with the medical department we have, and the support staff, there's no concern in his ability to get back to level he was playing at before the injury. I have no doubt about that because the care and expertise he'll have during his rehabilitation will be as good as any I've seen at any club.
"He's back home now with his family and his two little babies. I spoke to him immediately after the injury and to be fair he surprised me how positive he was.
"That was good for everybody. He was upset with the injury but he was being positive about getting back as quickly as possible and we all wish him well."
Fulham will most certainly miss Zamora over the coming months but Hughes is confident the Club has an armoury of striking options to fire Fulham to success this season.
"We'll miss Bobby and certain aspects of his play but we've got players like Clint Dempsey and Mousa Dembele, who will give us different things at different times.
"I'm not too worried about our attacking threat because I think we've still got enough strings to our bow. I'm sure you'll see the Team evolve in the next few months."
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/HughesOnBobby.aspx#ixzz0zmUW8DUV (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/HughesOnBobby.aspx#ixzz0zmUW8DUV)
http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/09/blackburn-rovers-v-fulham-rovers-seek-to-capitalise-on-zamoras-absence.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29 (http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/09/blackburn-rovers-v-fulham-rovers-seek-to-capitalise-on-zamoras-absence.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29)
Blackburn Rovers V Fulham: Rovers seek to capitalise on Zamora's absence
Mark Hughes celebrated his first league win as Fulham manager last weekend against Wolverhampton Wanderers but his joy was tainted with the news that striker Bobby Zamora had suffered a broken leg. The England international has been in fine form for the Cottagers and his absence will be a huge blow for the team.
This weekend Hughes returns to his former club desperate to keep his unbeaten run going, but he will only be too aware that not many teams leave Ewood Park with a share of the spoils.
Blackburn Rovers surprised a lot of fans last weekend by holding the billionaires of Manchester City to a draw at Eastlands and start this game as slight favourites with the bookies.
Big Sam's tactics will never win any style awards but they get results and staying in the Premier League is always his main objective at the start of each season.
Fulham have drawn both their away games this season and the majority of the Panel sees the points being shared again here.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/NextUpBlackburn.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/NextUpBlackburn.aspx?)
Blackburn Brief
Blackburn Rovers v Fulham, Barclays Premier League
Saturday 18th September 2010, KO 3pm
This weekend we head up the M6 once more to take on Blackburn Rovers.
Although not the happiest of hunting grounds in recent years, we have recorded two Premier League victories at Ewood Park, the last of which was a 3-1 success in May 2005. Last season we lost 2-0.
Blackburn remain one of only four clubs to have won the Premier League title, back in 1995 when the club was bankrolled by the late Jack Walker. Rovers may soon once more have a rich benefactor though, with takeover talks currently ongoing.
Current manager Sam Allardyce has been at the helm since December 2008 and guided Rovers to a 10th placed finish last season.
Rovers started the campaign with a single goal home victory over Everton, but then lost 2-1 at Birmingham, a scoreline repeated seven days later when Arsenal gained all three points at Ewood Park. Last weekend Blackburn picked up an impressive point away to Manchester City. Rovers have also made progress in the Carling Cup, beating Norwich 3-1 with a hat-trick from Mame Biram Diouf, on loan from Manchester United.
Ticket News
Tickets for this weekend's match against Blackburn are on General Sale and available to buy from the Cottage Ticket Office (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm) or from the Ewood Park Ticket Office on Saturday.
Loyalty points: 5
Prices:
Adults £10
Over 65s £5
Under-16s £5
Address: Ewood Park, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB2 4JF
Telephone: 01254 698888
Capacity: 31,367
Visitors Section: Darwen End Stand
Disabled Section: Disabled enclosure in Darwen End Stand
Travelling to Ewood Park
(Approx 234 miles from Fulham)
The second oldest Premier League ground (built in 1882), Ewood Park underwent significant renovations in the 1990s, bringing it up to date with the style of many other modern stadia. Despite a capacity of more than 30,000, the home fans rarely fill all of the seats.
Coaches
Depart Motspur Park 8am/Craven Cottage 8:30am
Price: Season Ticket Holders/Members Adults £22 Juniors £12
Non Season Ticket Holder Adults £27 Juniors £20
By Road
Leave London via M1 or M40/M42/M5 to join M6. Exit M6 at junction 29 onto M65 signs Blackburn, Burnley. Exit M65 at junction 4 onto A666 signs Blackburn. Enter Blackburn along Bolton Road (A666). After passing the Fernhurst pub on the left turn right into Nuttall Street. The ground is on the right.
Car Parking
Street parking is limited in the vicinity of ground. A number of local car parks are available including the Albion Mill car park on Albion Street. Car parks also available in Albion Road and at the Fernhurst pub. Prices from £4.
By Rail
Travel from Euston to Preston then catch the local train to either Mill Hill or Blackburn. Mill Hill is closer but not all trains stop there. Blackburn Station is about 1.6 miles from ground. Check trains before travelling as maintenance work may disrupt normal service for all or part of the journey. Numerous buses go from the Town Centre along Bolton Road to the ground, the majority showing Darwen as their destination. Taxi from about £6.
The Area
Blackburn is a rather small town in comparison to other Premier League clubs, and with Manchester and Blackpool not far away, those making a weekend of this trip are more likely to head elsewhere for bright lights. The town does, however, offer all the typical attractions, as well as museums and some impressive rural landscapes nearby. Those looking for a pre-match pint should head to the Fernhurst on the Bolton Road (A666) just across from the ground at the away supporters end, or the Golden Cup.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/NextUpBlackburn.aspx?#ixzz0zmi8TU4u (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/September/NextUpBlackburn.aspx?#ixzz0zmi8TU4u)
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23879234-losing-bobby-is-a-blow-that-we-can-now-overcome.do? (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23879234-losing-bobby-is-a-blow-that-we-can-now-overcome.do?)
Dickson Etuhu: Losing Zamora is a blow that we can now overcome
Dickson Etuhu has not been able to bring himself to watch the highlights of the win over Wolves last Saturday. Fulham maintained their impressive unbeaten start to the season with a 2-1 victory at Craven Cottage — but it came at a price.
Etuhu's close friend and team-mate Bobby Zamora was carried off in agony following a crunching challenge by Wolves captain Karl Henry.
The striker was immediately ruled out of action until Christmas and yesterday came the news Fulham manager Mark Hughes dreaded. Not only has Zamora broken his ankle, he has ligament damage as well and won't play again until February at the earliest.
Etuhu, 28, was one of the first to visit Zamora in hospital as the England man came to terms with the injury that has wrecked his season.
"Everyone at Fulham has been left shattered by what happened to Bobby," Etuhu told Standard Sport.
"He is more than just a good player, he is also one of the biggest personalities in our dressing room.
"He is such a comedian and a joker and you can always hear him from the car park as soon as he arrives at the training ground. Without him around the next five months are going to be so boring, he just makes everyone so happy.
"I went to see Bobby in hospital straight after the game with Wolves and understandably he was very down. I saw the pain he was in on the pitch and knew straight away it was bad; none of the players wanted to look at his ankle."
Zamora had just enjoyed his best season as a player as he helped Fulham reach the Europa League Final. He was capped by England against Hungary last month and signed a new four-year contract a week ago — three days after Etuhu had done the same.
"Bobby will be back, of that there is no doubt in my mind," the midfielder added. "We have all made sure that he has been looking on the bright side and trying to take the positives out of what is a very difficult situation for him and have promised not to let our standards slip while he is sidelined.
"He has never had a serious injury in his career so he has to hope that this is his one and only.
"Ironically, we both put pen to paper on four-year deals to stay at Fulham last week and we were actually joking that we had to be careful walking down any stairs in case we fell and got injured. Bobby even suggested we sleep at the club's training ground to make sure that nothing happened to us before we signed.
"People don't realise what a precarious profession being a footballer is. Just look at what has happened to Nuno Valencia at Manchester United this week who is now out for most of the season. You can be at the high point of your career and feeling that life is fantastic and that nothing can go wrong and then in a split second you are in the totally opposite position.
"Bobby had a huge smile on his face when he walked into Craven Cottage on Saturday morning, he had signed a new deal, was an England international and look at him now, sat on his bed with a broken ankle.
"But he knows there is no pressure on him to get back to playing again and that is a huge weight off his shoulders. I told him he should use the time to make sure he comes back fitter and stronger than ever."
The loss of such a crucial player at this early stage of the season would have hurt Fulham in the past yet
Hughes's team are now a different proposition.
Etuhu, born in Nigeria but raised in Peckham from an early age, played at this summer's World Cup, as did Australian goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and American striker Clint Dempsey, who can now expect to be the focal point of the attack in Zamora's absence.
"Bobby has been the main man for us but the great thing about Fulham at the moment is that we have the players to come in and fill the gap while he is out," Etuhu said.
"Clint Dempsey played so well last season and I am really excited about our new signing, Moussa Dembele, who came in a did so well with two goals against Wolves. Andy Johnson is also very close to regaining his match fitness as well, so it shows what a healthy squad we have built up."
The 28-year-old believes that Hughes is also the perfect man to help Fulham re-focus on football, starting with tomorrow's clash with the team he used to manage, Blackburn.
Etuhu, who has had spells at Manchester City, Preston, Norwich and Sunderland before arriving at Craven Cottage for £1.5million in 2008, believes Hughes's appointment this summer as Roy Hodgson's replacement will ensure last season's success is not a one-off.
"The whole club have been so upbeat since he took over from Roy and excited about what we can now achieve," he said.
"My brother, Kelvin, was at Manchester City with Hughes and told me a lot of good things about him before he arrived at Fulham. I was still quite shocked at what a good manager he is, the football he believes in and the way he carries and presents himself.
"We all wear suits now to every game, home and away, which might only seem like a small thing but it helps in our mental preparation.
"He is a very different boss to Roy, who was more interested in looking at the shape of the team and wanted us to sit back and defend and stay in our positions and then break forward.
"Mark Hughes is more dynamic and explosive and wants pace and power and to take the game to our opponents. We are more excited about this because we know we are going to get more goals this year and we are going to be more unpredictable."
Etuhu was still sad to see Hodgson, a manager he credits with rebuilding him as a player, leave for Liverpool in the summer but the freedom he now enjoys under Hughes has helped to soften the blow.
He only scored two goals last season but has already netted in this campaign with the late equaliser in the 2-2 draw at Blackpool.
He said: "I have a lot to thank Roy Hodgson because he helped me a lot and almost coached me from the beginning again — and I understand football better now because of him.
"Everyone knew under Roy Hodgson that we were going to play a solid 4-4-2, the strikers would come back and work hard, but now we are going to be pro-active.
"The new manager has encouraged me to get into the box as much as possible because he believes I can score a few goals this year."
Hughes was also a success at Blackburn and Etuhu fully expects him to receive a warm reception tomorrow.
"I know that he is still held in very high regard at Ewood Park because he did such a good job," he said.
Dickson Etuhu will be writing exclusively for the Evening Standard throughout the football season. For more information on Fulham FC go to fulhamfc.com
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9000608.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9000608.stm?)
Blackburn v Fulham
TEAM NEWS
Blackburn captain Ryan Nelsen is expected to be fit for Fulham's visit on Saturday.
Rovers will monitor the fitness of Michel Salgado, who injured his thigh against Manchester City.
Fulham winger Damien Duff should be available to face his former team after recovering from a calf injury.
Rafik Halliche and Fredrik Stoor (both groin) are doubts, while Andrew Johnson (knee) is still three to four weeks away from a first-team return.
Blackburn
Doubtful: Nelsen (foot), Salgado (thigh)
Injured: Andrews (groin)
Fulham
Doubtful: Duff (calf), Halliche & Stoor (both groin)
Injured: Dikgacoi (thigh), A Johnson (knee), Kamara (foot), Senderos (Achilles), Stockdale (ankle), Zamora (leg)
MATCH PREVIEW
Mark Hughes returns to the club where he made his managerial name hoping to extend his unbeaten start at new club Fulham to six matches.
Hughes spent four seasons in Lancashire, leading the club to three successive top-10 finishes, and it is that ability to maximise resources that no doubt persuaded Fulham to appoint the former Wales boss.
With only four league games of the season gone, that decision is already looking a wise one, with the Cottagers one of only five teams still defending an unbeaten record. But with striker Bobby Zamora out for the rest of the year and the injury-plagued Andrew Johnson still not ready to return, Hughes's talent for getting the best out of his squad will be severely tested over the coming months.
Since taking charge of Rovers in December 2008, Allardyce has turned to the blueprint that served him so well at Bolton Wanderers, building a powerful side that isn't embarrassed to play to its strengths.
A battling display at the City of Manchester Stadium led to familiar criticism of their bullying, long-ball approach, but Allardyce remains unmoved: "You use the assets you've got... We hope that puts a little bit more fear in everybody else that has to play us."
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
• Fulham have only won one of their last eight Premier League meetings against Blackburn.
• Sam Allardyce has not won any of his last five league meetings with Mark Hughes as a manager, losing four.
• Clint Dempsey has scored three goals in his last three appearances against Blackburn.
Blackburn
• Blackburn go in search of their 1,000th win in top-flight football.
• They have only lost five out of 32 Premier League games at Ewood Park under Sam Allardyce.
• Rovers have scored 499 goals in the Premier League at Ewood Park.
Fulham
• Fulham have not won a league game away from home since August 2009, a run of 20 fixtures.
• They have failed to find the back of the net in nine of their last 11 Premier League away games.
• Mark Hughes has drawn 11 of his last 15 Premier League games as a manager.
LEADING GOALSCORERS
Blackburn
Mame Diouf: 4 goals (1 league); Kalinic: 2 goals (2 league)
Fulham
Dembele: 3 goals (2 league); Zamora: 3 goals (1 league)
MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Anthony Taylor
Assistant referees: Dave Bryan & Phil Sharp
Fourth official: Lee Probert
LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
Blackburn (D1-1 v Man City, a): Robinson, Salgado (Chimbonda 46), Samba, Nelsen (Olsson 40), Givet, Mame Diouf, Jones, Grella (Nzonzi 57), Pedersen, El-Hadji Diouf, Kalinic. Subs not used: Bunn, Emerton, Dunn, Mwaruwari.
Fulham (W2-1 v Wolves, h): Schwarzer, Pantsil (Baird 46), Hughes, Hangeland, Kelly, Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey (Eddie Johnson 83), Zamora (Gera 30), Dembele. Subs not used: Etheridge, Riise, Greening, Halliche.
http://www.express.co.uk/football/view/200147/Blackburn-v-Fulham-Match-Preview? (http://www.express.co.uk/football/view/200147/Blackburn-v-Fulham-Match-Preview?)
BLACKBURN V FULHAM MATCH PREVIEW
Blackburn v Fulham, Saturday, 18 September 2010, 15:00
Ryan Nelsen and Michel Salgado are doubts for Blackburn when Fulham visit tomorrow after both limped off against Manchester City last weekend.
Nelsen suffered a kick to the instep and Salgado a thigh injury and both will have fitness tests just before the match. Keith Andrews (groin) remains sidelined.
Team (from): Robinson, Bunn, Olsson, Samba, Givet, Nelsen, Salgado, Jones, Pedersen, Nzonzi, Kalinic, E-H Diouf, M B Diouf, Emerton, Hoilett, Chimbonda, Grella, Dunn, Benjani, Roberts, Linganzi.
Fulham winger Damien Duff should be available for tomorrow's Barclays Premier League clash with Blackburn after recovering from a calf injury.
Bobby Zamora is out for five months (broken fibula/ankle ligament damage) while Andrew Johnson (knee) is three to four weeks away from a first team return.
Rafik Halliche and Fredrik Stoor (both groin) are doubts while Philippe Senderos (Achilles) is a long-term absentee.
Diomansy Kamara (foot) is back in training but David Stockdale (ankle) has three more weeks on the sidelines.
Team (from): Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Kelly, Pantsil, Salcido, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Halliche, Gera, Murphy, Duff, Riise, Etuhu, Dempsey, Greening, Davies, Dikgacoi, Elm, Dembele, Briggs.
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/43829/McCarthy_sticks_up_for_under-fire_Henry.aspx? (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/43829/McCarthy_sticks_up_for_under-fire_Henry.aspx?)
McCarthy sticks up for under-fire Henry
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy has urged Karl Henry not to curb his all-action style despite finding himself in the headlines.
Henry's tackle in last weekend's 2-1 defeat at Fulham left England striker Bobby Zamora facing five months on the sidelines with a broken leg.
McCarthy described the challenge as a "fantastic tackle" and is annoyed to see his midfielder coming under the media microscope following the high-profile incident.
"Karl felt deeply for him (Zamora) and I believe he has spoken to him, which I'd expect him to do," he said.
"If you're involved in any such incident then, as a fellow professional, you're going to have great empathy, certainly sympathy towards him, but then we all have.
"But it's not going to stop him. It was a great tackle and those things sadly happen. He has been highlighted and the irony is in the Fulham game he got booked for dissent.
"But Karl's coping great and he's had a fantastic start to the season, he's been terrific and he knows my view on it because I've told him - he just needs to keep playing the way he is."
http://www.goal.com/en/match/46029/blackburn-vs-fulham/preview (http://www.goal.com/en/match/46029/blackburn-vs-fulham/preview)
Premier League Preview: Blackburn Rovers - Fulham
Confidence And Crowd In Rovers' Favour
Blackburn Rovers await the arrival of Fulham with the confidence of home advantage coupled with the boost of having held Manchester City to a draw last week.
Rovers travelled to Eastlands last Saturday and performed admirably to carve out a 1-1 draw when pitted against the big spenders. It came as a welcome result, as a loss would have become their third consecutive defeat in the Premier League.
But that was not to be, as a communication breakdown between goalkeeper Joe Hart and defender Kolo Toure saw Nikola Kalinic score what would be the goal that earned his side a precious point on their travels.
So when the players take to the pitch at Ewood Park, manager Sam Allardyce may feel that anything less than a victory will be seen as an underwhelming result by the fans.
This is owing to the club's feat of finishing 10th last season, prompting unrealistic expectations of a clinching a European spot this term – and not to mention the hype surrounding a potential takeover that has suddenly gone all too quiet.
Even Allardyce has conceded in the recent past that a takeover could be in doubt, but he has nevertheless continued to work with what he has at the Lancashire club.
Travel Sickness
Fulham are enduring a severe bout of travel sickness, as it is now over a year since they last registered a victory away from home in the Premier League.
And even that victory came against a Portsmouth side that had become embroiled with severe financial turmoil off the pitch, as they eventually went into administration that induced relegation.
The gravity of the situation becomes clearer when one takes a couple of steps further into past seasons, as the Cottagers have only seven victories away from home in their last three seasons in the top-flight.
The London-based club's manager Mark Hughes has conceded that he wishes to rectify this, as he said: "Our away form is not good, but we're solid and played well at Bolton in the first match of the season – and I think we can build on that."
But the encouraging part for the boss is that his side registered their first league victory – against Wolverhampton Wanderers – last week. But even the script of that game proved to be a bittersweet symphony, as striker Bobby Zamora went off injured and is not expected to return for a few months.
But then again, the dark cloud came with a silver lining as summer signing Moussa Dembele scored his first Premier League goal against Wolves, and topped it by getting his name on the score sheet again to guide his side to a win.
The Cottagers will need him to continue his strong form if they are to beat their away day blues.
TEAM NEWS
Blackburn Rovers
Rovers boss has concerns over the fitness of defenders Ryan Nelsen and Michel Salgado, with the pair recovering from foot and thigh injuries respectively. Keith Andrews remains sidelined for this one owing to a groin injury.
Possible starting XI: Robinson; Salgado, Samba, Nelsen, Givet; Jones, Grella, Pedersen, H Diouf; M Diouf, Kalinic.
Fulham
The Cottagers will miss Bobby Zamora, who suffered a broken leg last week and is expected to remain on the sidelines for a significant part of the current campaign. Fellow forward Andy Johnson is still some way from reaching fitness. Last week's hero Moussa Dembele will be asked to shoulder the goal scoring responsibilities.
Diomansy Kamara and Philippe Senderos are also sidelined for this game, while Damien Duff and David Stockdale remain doubtful of making it in time for the trip to Ewood Park.
Possible starting XI: Schwarzer; Pantsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Kelly; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey; Gera; Dembele.
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/winger-hopes-for-hughes-1098304.html? (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/winger-hopes-for-hughes-1098304.html?)
Winger hopes for Hughes
Mark Hughes is hoping that winger Damien Duff will be available for the clash at Blackburn as he recovers from a calf injury.
Duff should be fit but there are doubts over Rafik Halliche and Fredrik Stoor who have both been suffering with groin injuries.
Fulham will be without strikers Bobby Zamora and Andy Johnson. Zamora broke his leg last weekend and could be out for five months and Johnson is still not over a knee injury although he expects to be back next month.
Diomansy Kamara is back in training but the clash may come too soon for him, while Philippe Senderos and David Stockdale are both out.
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Blackburn-v-Fulham-team-news-Damien-Duff-should-be-fit-for-Fulham-after-a-calf-injury-article582305.html (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Blackburn-v-Fulham-team-news-Damien-Duff-should-be-fit-for-Fulham-after-a-calf-injury-article582305.html)
Duff to return to haunt Blackburn?
Fulham winger Damien Duff should be available for tomorrow's Barclays Premier League clash with Blackburn after recovering from a calf injury.
Bobby Zamora is out for five months (broken fibula/ankle ligament damage) while Andrew Johnson (knee) is three to four weeks away from a first team return.
Rafik Halliche and Fredrik Stoor (both groin) are doubts while Philippe Senderos (Achilles) is a long-term absentee.
Diomansy Kamara (foot) is back in training but David Stockdale (ankle) has three more weeks on the sidelines.
Team (from): Schwarzer, Zuberbuhler, Kelly, Pantsil, Salcido, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Halliche, Gera, Murphy, Duff, Riise, Etuhu, Dempsey, Greening, Davies, Dikgacoi, Elm, Dembele, Briggs.
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Blackburn-v-Fulham-team-news-Damien-Duff-should-be-fit-for-Fulham-after-a-calf-injury-article582305.html#ixzz0zmlYVueX (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Blackburn-v-Fulham-team-news-Damien-Duff-should-be-fit-for-Fulham-after-a-calf-injury-article582305.html#ixzz0zmlYVueX)
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http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/17092010/63/rovers-duo-struggling.html (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/17092010/63/rovers-duo-struggling.html)
Rovers duo struggling
Fri, 17 Sep 11:42:46 2010
Ryan Nelsen and Michel Salgado are doubts for Blackburn when Fulham visit after both limped off against Manchester City last weekend.
Nelsen suffered a kick to the instep and Salgado a thigh injury and both will have fitness tests just before the match.
Midfielder Keith Andrews (groin) remains sidelined.
http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3286156,00.html (http://www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3286156,00.html)
Blackburn v Fulham preview
Formidable home form meets woeful away record at Ewood Park
Blackburn will be looking to get one over on former boss Mark Hughes when they entertain Fulham.
Rovers have endured an indifferent start to the 2010/11 campaign, with an opening day victory over Everton representing their solitary success in the league.
They did, however, put in a determined showing against top four hopefuls Manchester City last time out and will have taken heart from that performance.
Blackburn are also a formidable proposition on home soil, with only five defeats suffered in 32 games at Ewood Park under Sam Allardyce.
Rovers' boss does not have the best of records in meetings with Hughes, though, and has come off second best in four of their last five encounters.
Hughes, since leaving Blackburn in 2008, has won two and drawn one of his three league fixtures against his former employers.
That run could come under threat this weekend, though, as Fulham are currently in the middle of an away day slump.
They have won none of their last 20 trips out on the road in the Premier League.
The Cottagers have also failed to find the target in nine of their last 11 away matches, and have hit just one goal in their last four visits to Ewood Park.
Team news
Spanish full-back Michel Salgado will be missing for Blackburn as he is nursing a thigh strain.
Pascal Chimbonda is expected to provide cover at right-back, presenting him with a first Premier League start of the season.
Ryan Nelsen is still carrying a slight knock to his foot, picked up against City last time out, but Allardyce is hoping he will be fit for duty.
Republic of Ireland international Keith Andrews is a long-term absentee as he looks to shake off a groin injury, but David Dunn could be returned to the starting XI at the heart of the midfield.
Damien Duff should be available for Fulham after recovering from a calf problem.
Bobby Zamora is out for five months (broken fibula/ankle ligament damage) while Andrew Johnson (knee) is three to four weeks away from a first-team return.
Rafik Halliche and Fredrik Stoor (both groin) are doubts while Philippe Senderos (Achilles) is a long-term absentee.
Diomansy Kamara (foot) is back in training but David Stockdale (ankle) has three more weeks on the sidelines.
Possible starting XIs
Blackburn: Robinson, Chimbonda, Samba, Nelsen, Givet, E Diouf, Dunn, Jones, Pedersen, M Diouf, Kalinic.
Fulham: Schwarzer, Kelly, Hangeland, Hughes, Pantsil, Gera, Murphy, Etuhu, Duff, Dempsey, Dembele.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1312916/BLACKBURN-v-Fulham-Ryan-Nelsen-Michel-Salgado-undergo-late-fitness-test.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1312916/BLACKBURN-v-Fulham-Ryan-Nelsen-Michel-Salgado-undergo-late-fitness-test.html?)
BLACKBURN v Fulham: Ryan Nelsen and Michel Salgado to undergo late fitness tests
Ryan Nelsen and Michel Salgado are doubts for Blackburn when Fulham visit Ewood Park after both limped off against Manchester City last weekend.
Nelsen suffered a kick to the instep and Salgado a thigh injury and both will have fitness tests just before the match. Keith Andrews (groin) remains sidelined.
Team (from): Robinson, Bunn, Olsson, Samba, Givet, Nelsen, Salgado, Jones, Pedersen, Nzonzi, Kalinic, E-H Diouf, M B Diouf, Emerton, Hoilett, Chimbonda, Grella, Dunn, Benjani, Roberts, Linganzi.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1312916/BLACKBURN-v-Fulham-Ryan-Nelsen-Michel-Salgado-undergo-late-fitness-test.html?#ixzz0zmmyy1vF (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1312916/BLACKBURN-v-Fulham-Ryan-Nelsen-Michel-Salgado-undergo-late-fitness-test.html?#ixzz0zmmyy1vF)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6382515,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6382515,00.html?)
Kelly keen to keep place
Full-back hopeful of playing in favoured position against Rovers
Fulham's Stephen Kelly believes he has done enough to warrant a starting berth at right-back this weekend.
The Republic of Ireland full-back has been a feature of the Fulham backline this season, taking the place of left-back Paul Koncheskywho departed for Liverpool last month.
Kelly is likely to lose the left-back slot to Mexican international Carlos Salcido, who arrived during the last transfer window.
The former PSV man could make his Fulham debut against Blackburn on Saturday after having his visa granted, but Kelly is hoping to play in his more natural right-back position in place of John Pantsil.
The 27-year-old said in the Fulham Chronicle: "My performances over the past couple of games on the left have warranted me given a chance on my natural side.
"I've been playing well out of position, so I think if Carlos had been available I hopefully would've been given a chance at right-back.
"There's a lot of competition for places at full-back, but I think I've played well enough to keep my place in the team, whether that be at right-back or left-back."
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/17092010/58/premier-league-matchpack-blackburn-rovers-v-fulham.html? (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/17092010/58/premier-league-matchpack-blackburn-rovers-v-fulham.html?)
Premier League - Matchpack: Blackburn Rovers v Fulham
TEAM NEWS
Fulham winger Damien Duff should be available after recovering from a calf injury. Bobby Zamora is out for five months (broken fibula/ankle ligament damage) while Andrew Johnson (knee) is three to four weeks away from a first team return.
Rafik Halliche and Fredrik Stoor (both groin) are doubts while Philippe Senderos (Achilles) is a long-term absentee.
Diomansy Kamara (foot) is back in training but David Stockdale (ankle) has three more weeks on the sidelines.
Blackburn's Ryan Nelsen and Michel Salgado are doubts for Blackburn after both limped off against Manchester City last weekend. Nelsen suffered a kick to the instep and Salgado a thigh injury and both will have fitness tests just before the match. Keith Andrews (groin) remains sidelined.
MATCH FACTS
Clint Dempsey has scored three goals in his last three appearances against Blackburn.
Fulham have only won one of the last eight Premier League meetings against Blackburn.
Blackburn have only lost five of their 32 Premier League home games under Sam Allardyce.
Fulham have won none of their last 20 Premier League away matches.
The Londoners have failed to score in nine of their last 11 Premier League away matches.
Blackburn have scored 499 goals in the Premier League at Ewood Park.
Blackburn have completed just 55.8 per cent of their passes in the Premier League so far this season; lower than any other side.
Fulham have hit just one goal in total in their last four trips to Ewood Park in the league.
Sam Allardyce has won none of his last five league meetings with Mark Hughes as a manager, losing four.
Mark Hughes has won two of his three league meetings with his former club as a manager, drawing the other.
ODDS
Blackburn Evens, Draw 21/10, Fulham 5/2
http://www.footballfancast.com/2010/09/football-news/keeper-mark-schwarzer-earns-fulham-praise?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ffc_Premiership_Blogs+%28FFC_Premiership_Blogs%29 (http://www.footballfancast.com/2010/09/football-news/keeper-mark-schwarzer-earns-fulham-praise?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ffc_Premiership_Blogs+%28FFC_Premiership_Blogs%29)
KEEPER MARK SCHWARZER EARNS FULHAM PRAISE
Fulham boss Mark Hughes has praised Mark Schwarzer's professionalism following a transfer window full of speculation surrounding the goalkeeper's future.
The Australia international made his first appearance of the season in last weekend's 2-1 victory over Wolves.
Schwarzer was given a warm reception by the Craven Cottage crowd despite reportedly been keen to join Arsenal during the summer.
He was the subject of two unsuccessful bids before the transfer window closed and Hughes is pleased with how the veteran shot-stopper has bounced back from any disappointment he may have felt.
"He's a good professional and I didn't think there would be any difference in his daily work or approach to games. It was never a worry for me and he's getting on with his job," Hughes told the club's official website.
"We weren't receptive to any bids because Mark's too important to us. We would much rather he was here helping us win Premier League games.
"His immediate future is here at Fulham and we're hopeful we can show him where we want to go and what we want to do in the future. Obviously I've made it known to him that I want him to be a part of that."
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1312931/Sam-Allardyce-Id-win-league-year-I-Manchester-United-boss.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1312931/Sam-Allardyce-Id-win-league-year-I-Manchester-United-boss.html?)
Sam Allardyce: I'd win the league every year if I was manager of Manchester United
Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce has claimed he would win the league every year if he was manager of Manchester United or Real Madrid.
Allardyce, the former Bolton and Newcastle manager, believes he hasn't been given a good enough chance to shine at bigger clubs.
He said: 'I'm not suited to Bolton or Blackburn, I would be more suited to Inter Milan or Real Madrid.
'It wouldn't be a problem to me to go and manage those clubs because I would win the double or the league every time.
'Give me Manchester United or Chelsea and I would do the same, it wouldn't be a problem.
'It's not where I'm suited to, it's just where I've been for most of the time.
'It's not a problem to take me into the higher reaches of the Champions League or Premier League and would make my job a lot easier in winning it.'
Blackburn picked up a fine draw at Manchester City last weekend, and will hope to build on that when they entertain Fulham on Saturday. Opposing manager Mark Hughes is another that Allardyce feels hasn't been given enough time.
Allardyce said: 'His Manchester City reign obviously was not long enough. A little bit like me at Newcastle, but I didn't last quite as long as Sparky though.
'He was given the chance and unfortunately at that stage of his career they decided to have a change.
'You look back on it and he'll be very disappointed because they only lost two games I think. But that is the way it is sometimes, there's a perception that other people can do better than you, but often the reality is not the case.
'He decided that Fulham was the place for him, he's taken over what he's described in his own words as a very good team and he's started where they left off last season.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1312931/Sam-Allardyce-Id-win-league-year-I-Manchester-United-boss.html?#ixzz0znJoktSX (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1312931/Sam-Allardyce-Id-win-league-year-I-Manchester-United-boss.html?#ixzz0znJoktSX)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_of_wales/9009607.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_of_wales/9009607.stm?)
Brian Flynn Fulham trip fuels Simon Davies speculation
New Wales manager Brian Flynn will travel to Ewood Park on Saturday to watch Fulham against Blackburn, adding to rumours over Simon Davies.
Davies is the only likely Welsh interest in the game, fuelling speculation that the Fulham midfielder could make an international return.
Flynn would not confirm that his trip was specifically to see Davies.
But he has stated that his "door is open" to retired international players wanting to make Wales returns.
Flynn's predecessor John Toshack saw a host of stars quit the international game and insisted to the end that it was their duty to push to play for their country, not his job to chase them.
Davies, Ryan Giggs, Robbie Savage, Danny Collins and Jason Koumas are among those former Wales stars currently outside the international game.
"They are all excellent players, but we are looking to move forward now," said Flynn, who will be in charge for Wales' Euro 2012 qualifiers at home to Bulgaria and then in Switzerland next month.
"They know my number, they know where I am and my door is always open.
"If they want to speak to me, we will discuss it. I will speak with anyone."
But Flynn, 54, harbours little hope of seeing Wales' greatest player Giggs returning to the international scene.
"I think the decision regarding playing has been made by his [Manchester United] manager," said Flynn, speaking in Port Talbot in his first official media conference as Wales boss.
"That has been well documented, so I can't see that happening in the near future.
"I know Sir Alex [Ferguson] well enough to know that when he says no, he means no."
Haverfordwest's Davies, 30, won 58 caps for Wales, scoring six goals, after making his debut in 2001, but dramatically quit in the build-up to last month's friendly against Luxembourg in order to concentrate on club football.
The former national captain was one of the senior Welsh players criticised following Wales' disappointing World Cup qualifying defeat to an average Finland side in Cardiff in March last year, a loss that made 2010 World Cup qualification virtually impossible.
After the Switzerland clash on 12 October, the Football Association of Wales has five months to decide whether to confirm Flynn permanently in the post - assuming he wants the job full-time - or to appoint someone else.
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/9/17/1694271/my-five-keys-to-victory-for-fulham? (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2010/9/17/1694271/my-five-keys-to-victory-for-fulham?)
My Five Keys To Victory For Fulham Against Blackburn - Match Preview
This Saturday, Fulham will be on the road at Ewood Park to play Blackburn. The game takes place at 3PM UK Time and 10 AM EST. The game will be on television taped delayed on Saturday at 5 PM EST in the United States. However, there is another option online. You can watch the game on Foxsoccer.tv live.This is a subscription based service that I would recommend.
Could this be the week Fulham finally get a road victory in the league? Ewood Park is a difficult place to win for the visiting team. Fulham will need to play at a very high level to get all 3 points.
Last season the two clubs split the games. Fulham beat Blackburn 3-0 at Craven Cottage. Blackburn beat Fulham 2 -0 at Ewood Park,
Sam Allardyce is the manager of Blackburn, and has done a nice job with his club. They have two young players that can create scoring opportunities. Niko Kalinić is a 22 year old Serbian striker to watch tomorrow. He has already scored two goals in the league. Mame Diouf is a 22 year old Senagalese left winger that Fulham should also monitor. He is on loan from Manchester United. He has already scored 4 goals for Blackburn including one in the league.
As I do before every match I do my 5 "keys" that I hope will lead to 3 points for Fulham. Below are " My 5 Keys To Victory For Fulham Against Blackburn".
1. Fulham need to defend very well on set pieces. On the road, I have mentioned prior that Fulham the last couple of seasons have been burnt by not defending well on set pieces. I think this is a critical key tomorrow. For Fulham to get all three points they need to defend corner kicks and free kicks at a very high level. Brede Hangeland needs to be a physical force on these plays.
2. Fulham's defenders need to contain Niko Kalinić and Mame Diouf. These are two young players that can create scoring opportunities. Brede Hangeland and Aaron Hughes both could be very important players in limiting the scoring chances for Blackburn.
3. Dickson Etuhu needs to push forward from the midfield and be an additional scoring threat. It seems under Mark Hughes that Etuhu is given more freedom to move up and be more offensive. Without Zamora, his presence pushing forward could create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
4. Moussa Dembele should be the feature player up front to create scoring opportunities. Dembele I believe is on the verge of being a huge player in the EPL. He will be counted on tomorrow to create many of the scoring opportunities for Fulham. Whether it is passing or scoring himself he needs to really be involved in the game.
5. Clint Dempsey should take as many shots as possible tomorrow. So far this season I don't think Clint has played a large role in the games.Tomorrow is a perfect opportunity for him to assert himself. I think he should shoot whenever he has the opportunity. The more shots on net can only help Fulham get to the Blackburn goalkeeper. Dempsey has the ability to create chances from nothing. I am hoping he creates several opportunities tomorrow.
This should be a tough game for Fulham. However, I do feel confident that they have the ability to get the three points. My prediction for the match is a 1-0 Fulham victory.
