http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/blackburn-rovers/8064417/Sam-Allardyce-says-Danny-Murphy-wrong-to-call-Blackburn-Rovers-a-dirty-team.html? (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/blackburn-rovers/8064417/Sam-Allardyce-says-Danny-Murphy-wrong-to-call-Blackburn-Rovers-a-dirty-team.html?)
Sam Allardyce says Danny Murphy wrong to call Blackburn Rovers a dirty team
Sam Allardyce has responded to Danny Murphy's claims that Blackburn Rovers are a dirty team, challenging the Fulham midfielder to be "man enough" to apologise for propagating the 'perception' that he sends his players out to injure opponents.
Murphy singled out Blackburn Rovers, Stoke and Wolves when he claimed some managers risk encouraging fouls by sending out teams overly fired up – a move that has provoked fury among players and management at Ewood Park – and said some players had "no brains" in the challenges they were making.
Blackburn have produced a raft of statistics to prove they are not a dirty side – they currently have the fourth-best disciplinary record in the Premier League with 11 cautions and no red cards this season, better than both Fulham and Arsenal.
Rovers have only had one player sent off all year, no players were suspended for five or more bookings last season, and their disciplinary record has improved hugely since Allardyce took over.
The Blackburn manager called on Murphy to apologise, insisting: "If he's man enough, that's what he should do.
"The allegation made by Danny Murphy was totally and utterly wrong as you can see by the facts we have given out.
"We are not dirty and we never go out to injure a player; I never send a player out to injure a player on the opposite side, we are too professional for that.
"In the disciplinary league table we are fourth, that's how good we are.
"People like Danny Murphy are giving a perception that's not true and I hate perception. There is far too much of it in the game, we should stick to reality.
"I was very, very angry indeed when I saw it. The players are very angry – was it brainless or mindless he said? An outrageous statement to make. They are very angry about that.
"We don't want any backlash from those suggestions, from people's perception that we are a dirty side."
Allardyce said the claims just added to false perceptions about Blackburn being an over-physical, long-ball side.
He added: "Yes we are physical when we need to be but we don't play dirty and we never have done.
"When somebody throws an allegation at you like that you have to defend it. I have had the best disciplinary record here for five years and have reduced the bookings ratio to around 1.5 per game from just over two.
"The perception of Blackburn Rovers is the wrong one in many, many cases but we have to live with it; the perception of Sam Allardyce is the wrong one but I have to live with it."
Allardyce also rejected suggestions that the number of injuries caused by tackling has increased.
"In most people's opinions it's far less dirty. We coach players not to give free-kicks away as most games are won or lost on set-plays."
Murphy's remarks at the Leaders in Football conference in London last week caused a storm.
Murphy said: "Your manager dictates what your players do and how you behave.
"You get managers who are sending their teams out to stop other teams playing, which is happening more and more – the Stokes, Blackburns, Wolves.
"They can say it's effective and they have got to win games but the fact is the managers are sending out their players so pumped up there is inevitably going to be problems.
"Every ship has a captain and that's the manager who is in charge."
Murphy said there should be tougher sanctions for dangerous tackles – especially for repeat offenders.
He added: "The pace in which some players go into tackles now is ridiculous. There's no brains involved in the players who are doing that."
Allardyce's comments were echoed by Blackburn keeper Paul Robinson, a former team-mate of Murphy's when both players were at Tottenham.
Robinson: said: "It's disappointing when a fellow professional feels the need to criticise other players and there was no relevance to it. We didn't and the other teams didn't have a game against them [Fulham] coming up so to be criticised as professional players and the way you go about your business is disappointing.
"When you look at the statistics since the manager has come in our disciplinary record has been excellent.
"Our yellow and red cards were better last season than when Mark Hughes was in charge.
"We are pleased with the way we go about our business and we handle ourselves correctly."
Asked why Murphy might have singled out the three clubs, Robinson said perhaps because they all made it difficult for opposing teams.
The keeper added: "The game has definitely got less tough over the years. It would be criminal to outlaw tackling in the game, it's a physical contact sport, it's a man's game and always has been."
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23887992-dont-underestimate-fulham-simon-davies-warns-spurs.do? (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23887992-dont-underestimate-fulham-simon-davies-warns-spurs.do?)
Don't underestimate Fulham, Simon Davies warns Spurs(http://i.thisislondon.co.uk/i/pix/2010/04/fulhamwin415.jpg)
Simon Davies has warned Tottenham that Fulham will be out to prove just what a "dangerous team" they are in Saturday's London derby at a sold-out Craven Cottage.
Mark Hughes' men are unbeaten in the Barclays Premier League this season, but also have managed only one victory from seven matches.
Manchester United were held to a 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage back in August and Davis maintains Harry Redknapp's Champions League hopefuls will be in for similar treatment.
"We look a really dangerous team and it has been a shame that we have not gone on and won a couple more games, but the longer the season goes on, the better I am sure we will become," Davis said on the club's official website, www.fulhamfc.com (http://www.fulhamfc.com).
"Spurs have got some great individual players, as they always have had, but they are really playing as a team now - that is why they are doing so well in the league and in the Champions League.
"It is going to be a tough game, but we have done all right against them over the last few years.
"The Cottage is a difficult place to come to and hopefully we can keep our home form going."
Davies, who will be 31 at the end of the month, has not been away during the international break after recently calling time on his career with Wales.
However, the midfielder revealed the group which stayed behind in west London have been working hard towards this weekend's resumption of domestic action.
"The manger's really keen to keep people as fit as possible," he said.
"We had a nice weekend off, but we came back and everyone's getting ready for Tottenham, which we know is going to be a tough game.
"It's been quite a small group that we've been working with every day. The sessions have been intensive - you definitely get your work in.
"It's been good, but it's a long time to go without a game so it'll be good when everyone's back.
"For the lads that are here it's about getting your head down and training as hard as you can."
Mousa Dembele is hoping to be involved again after an injury lay-off, while former England striker Andy Johnson is also on the comeback trail following an extended rehabilitation.
"He is looking sharp," Davies said.
"I've been talking to AJ a lot because I was out for a long time last season.
"The main thing is that his knee isn't giving him a problem so if we can get him back fit and firing he'll be like a new signing"
Fulham captain Danny Murphy made headlines during the international break when he pointed the finger of blame for reckless challenges at the managers of Stoke, Blackburn and Wolves, claiming "sending out their players so pumped up there is inevitably going to be problems".
It has already drawn criticism from Bolton boss Owen Coyle, but long-serving Crewe manager Dario Gradi believes his former trainee has it about right.
Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, the 69-year-old said: "You don't play good football if you're hot-headed.
"I am happy to see people make tackles. I am just not happy for people to risk injury getting tackled.
"One of our supporters says to me every week, 'have you got them going Dario?'
"I always say 'No, I hope not, I am trying to keep them calm'."
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320564/Premier-League-managers-react-Danny-Murphys-controversial-claims.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320564/Premier-League-managers-react-Danny-Murphys-controversial-claims.html?)
Tackling the big issue: Premier League managers hit back at Danny Murphy's controversial claims
Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy caused outcry when he accused certain managers of being responsible for a spate of bad tackles this season by sending out teams who were too pumped up.
In particular, Murphy was critical of Sam Allardyce at Blackburn, Stoke's Tony Pulis and Wolves boss Mick McCarthy during an attack in which he said some players had 'no brain' for jumping into challenges.
On Thursday Allardyce hit back at Murphy and a number of other managers joined in the controversy which has cast a shadow over the game.
If Murphy is a man he'll apologise
Sam Allardyce hit back at Danny Murphy on Thursday and strongly defended his team's tactics, saying: 'People like Danny Murphy are giving a perception that's not true and I hate perception.
'The players are very angry. Was it "brainless" or "mindless" he said? An outrageous statement to make. They are very angry about that.
'We don't want any backlash from those suggestions, from peoples' perception that we are a dirty side.
'Apologise? If he's man enough, that's what he should do.
'Yes, we are physical when we need to be but we don't play dirty and we never have done.
'When somebody throws an allegation at you like that you have to defend it. I have had the best disciplinary record here for five years and have reduced the bookings ratio to around 1.5 per game from just over two.
Our sending off ratio is very, very good. In the whole of this calendar year we have only had one player sent off.
'We are not going out to try and injure players and we take great exception to anybody who suggests that.
'We are not dirty and we never go out to injure a player, we are too professional.'
No player aims to hurt another
Some managers, including Birmingham's Alex McLeish, fear that a clampdown on tackling will damage the game.
He said: 'We are in danger of taking tackling out of the game completely.
'I know there have been a lot of stray tackles about over the last few weeks and it has been a big talking point. And I also know that UEFA and FIFA are more criticial about the English game than any other league in the world.
'We have to be careful in certain situations. But I do believe that the players are taking heed. But there will still be the odd occasion when players collide. It's inevitable.
'However, I still don't believe that any player goes out to harm another.'
We have to cut out reckless tackles
Owen Coyle joined Sam Allardyce in criticisng Danny Murphy for pointing the finger at particular clubs and managers.
The Bolton boss said: 'Danny Murphy is a terrifically talented player and, in time, if Danny decides to dip his toe in the water in terms of coaching and management, I think, if you speak to him, he might have a different perspective or angle on this.
'Not having had that experience of being a manager, I think it is a difficult one for him to call.
'I might be wrong but I'd imagine he'll probably regret some of it. To mention any club or individual was very wrong because you look at all the clubs involved and the managers they have - these people are fantastic at what they do.
'What we do have to do as a collective body is try to eradicate the tackles that are made outside the laws of the game.
'You will have mistimed tackles because of the frenetic nature of the Premier League, but there is a difference between a mistimed tackle and a reckless challenge.'
There is an art to a good tackle
Chris Hughton believes that poor tackling is punished more severely these days.
The Newcastle manager said: 'It's been highlighted in recent weeks because of the severity of some of the injuries.
Unfortunately in games there will be bad tackles that will put players out for a while.
'Tackling is very much an art, players aren't able to get away with what they were a few years ago and that's one aspect of the game that's very much changed.
'I don't think anything's changed from when I played — you send your team out with the right tactics to win and you want players to play with enthusiasm and endeavour.'
P.S. De Jong's tackle was just clumsy
The tackle by Manchester City's Nigel De Jong on Hatem Ben Arfa broke the Newcastle United player's left leg in two places in their recent Barclays Premier League match.
De Jong was severely criticised for his lunge, even though referee Martin Atkinson took no action at the time. City teammate Kolo Toure yesterday spoke out for De Jong, claiming the challenge was 'clumsy'.
Toure added: 'It wasn't a malicious tackle. He is not a violent person. He is focused on his football, he works hard on his physique and looks like a pitbull but he isn't a bad guy.
'His tackle was more clumsy than anything else. He is really upset for Ben Arfa. But these things can happen to anyone — just like Aaron Ramsey at Stoke last year.
'He regrets it and is struggling to deal with what has happened. And then he was left out the Holland squad, too. It's been very hard on him.
'Everyone is very full-on when they play here. It's what they call the passion of English football.
'Once again De Jong has ended up on the wrong side of it. He didn't mean to hurt him.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320564/Premier-League-managers-react-Danny-Murphys-controversial-claims.html?#ixzz12PLhSemM (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320564/Premier-League-managers-react-Danny-Murphys-controversial-claims.html?#ixzz12PLhSemM)
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320582/Stoke-City-enter-race-Werder-Bremen-Fulham-midfielder-Zoltan-Gera.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320582/Stoke-City-enter-race-Werder-Bremen-Fulham-midfielder-Zoltan-Gera.html?)
Stoke City enter race with Werder Bremen for Fulham midfielder Zoltan Gera
Stoke are ready to compete with Werder Bremen for Fulham's unsettled midfielder Zoltan Gera.
The Hungary international almost joined Stoke on the last day of the transfer window but manager Tony Pulis opted for a simpler deal with Jermaine Pennant.
However, Pulis is still looking re-inforce his squad in January and may also join West Brom the hunt for Aston Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320582/Stoke-City-enter-race-Werder-Bremen-Fulham-midfielder-Zoltan-Gera.html?#ixzz12PM6Ey5b (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320582/Stoke-City-enter-race-Werder-Bremen-Fulham-midfielder-Zoltan-Gera.html?#ixzz12PM6Ey5b)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6444994,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6444994,00.html?)
Davies eyes Spurs victory
Cottagers midfielder has confidence ahead of London derby
Fulham midfielder Simon Davies is confident his side can overcome London rivals Tottenham on Saturday.
Spurs travel to Craven Cottage for a sold-out Premier League clash, with Mark Hughes' men unbeaten in the top-flight this season, although they have only managed one win in seven games.
Welshman Davies believes Tottenham will be tough opponents but is confident the Cottagers have what it takes to get back on the winning road.
"We look a really dangerous team and it has been a shame that we have not gone on and won a couple more games, but the longer the season goes on, the better I am sure we will become," he told the club's official website.
"Spurs have got some great individual players, as they always have had, but they are really playing as a team now - that is why they are doing so well in the league and in the Champions League.
"It is going to be a tough game, but we have done all right against them over the last few years.
"The Cottage is a difficult place to come to and hopefully we can keep our home form going."
Davies, 31, has retired from international football so did not link up with the Wales squad during the recent domestic break.
Keeping fit
However, he has been working hard to keep up to speed in West London and says boss Hughes wants every player to work as hard as they can in training.
"The manger's really keen to keep people as fit as possible," he added.
"We had a nice weekend off, but we came back and everyone's getting ready for Tottenham, which we know is going to be a tough game.
"It's been quite a small group that we've been working with every day. The sessions have been intensive - you definitely get your work in.
"It's been good, but it's a long time to go without a game so it'll be good when everyone's back.
"For the lads that are here it's about getting your head down and training as hard as you can."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7943479/Fulham-v-Tottenham-Hotspur-match-preview.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/7943479/Fulham-v-Tottenham-Hotspur-match-preview.html)
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage on Saturday Oct 16 2010, kick-off 15:00 BST.
Fulham (Possible, 4-4-2): Schwarzer; Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Salcido; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff; Dempsey; E Johnson.
Tottenham (Possible, 4-4-2): Gomes; Hutton, Corluka, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto; Van der Vaart, Huddlestone, Modric, Bale; Pavlyuchenko, Crouch.
Referee: Mike Dean. Matches: 6. R0 Y17.
Tale of the game
Only Fulham and Manchester United are unbeaten in the Premier League this season but Fulham have won just one and drawn the other six of their seven games. The one victory came at Craven Cottage, the 2-1 win over Wolves.
Last season these teams met four times. In addition to the two League clashes, the teams drew 0-0 at Craven Cottage in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, with Spurs winning 3-1 in the White Hart Lane replay.
Mark Hughes has drawn 14 of his last 18 games as a manager, with Manchester City and Fulham. And his only defeat in his last 19 games as boss was against Spurs, when City lost 3-0 at White Hart Lane in December 2009. But Spurs have not won at Craven Cottage in the Premier League since March 2002. Since then, in eight visits, Fulham have won five and drawn three.
Spurs test Benoît Assou-Ekotto, William Gallas and Younes Kaboul but Michael Dawson, Ledley King, Aaron Lennon, Jermain Defoe, Jamie O'Hara and Jonathan Woodgate are all absent.
Last season: Fulham 0 Spurs 0, Spurs 2 Fulham 0
Stat of the game: Three of the last four League games between these teams at Craven Cottage have ended all square.
Betting tip: A 2-2 draw is 14-1.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/9081564.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/9081564.stm)
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/49506000/gif/_49506037_ful_tott_0506.gif)
Fulham v Tottenham
It's Champions League week for Spurs who go to Milan for their clash with Inter on Wednesday.
It will be interesting to see what the make-up of manager Harry Redknapp's side will be as a result of their forthcoming trip. It's a nice headache to have though.
Fulham have been tough to beat under Mark Hughes, so I reckon a draw is the likely outcome here.
Prediction: 1-1
http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/10/fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-spurs-need-something-special-to-beat-sparkys-men.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29 (http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/10/fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-spurs-need-something-special-to-beat-sparkys-men.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29)
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur: Spurs need something special to beat Sparky's men
Harry Redknapp may be nicknamed Harry Houdini in some quarters but the former Portsmouth chief will have to produce some magic to overcome the curse of Craven Cottage. Tottenham have failed to win at Fulham in their past eight league visits but Redknapp would love to break that run this weekend, especially with a huge Champions League game with Inter Milan in midweek.
Fulham are turning into the Premier League's draw specialists. Their draw at Upton Park a fortnight ago was their sixth of the season already. They remain unbeaten, and are tough to break down, but Mark Hughes and the fans dearly need more wins under their belts.
Tottenham have given Fulham some proper spankings down at the Lane, and put four past them at the Cottage recently in the FA Cup, but when it comes to league action they always fail to grab all three points. They need something special to beat Fulham. Maybe Rafael Van der Vaart is that certain something.
Redknapp will need to make sure that his players are totally focused on the game in hand and don't have one eye on their mouth-watering trip to Italy. If they do I'm sure the Cottagers will be ready to make their capital rivals pay dearly.
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur; Kick Off 3pm October 16 2010
http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/10/fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-spurs-need-something-special-to-beat-sparkys-men.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29 (http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/10/fulham-v-tottenham-hotspur-spurs-need-something-special-to-beat-sparkys-men.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29)
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur: Spurs need something special to beat Sparky's men
Posted by Colin Illingworth at 09:00 AM
in Colin Illingworth, Fulham, PP10, Predictions, Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur
Harry Redknapp may be nicknamed Harry Houdini in some quarters but the former Portsmouth chief will have to produce some magic to overcome the curse of Craven Cottage. Tottenham have failed to win at Fulham in their past eight league visits but Redknapp would love to break that run this weekend, especially with a huge Champions League game with Inter Milan in midweek.
Fulham are turning into the Premier League's draw specialists. Their draw at Upton Park a fortnight ago was their sixth of the season already. They remain unbeaten, and are tough to break down, but Mark Hughes and the fans dearly need more wins under their belts.
Tottenham have given Fulham some proper spankings down at the Lane, and put four past them at the Cottage recently in the FA Cup, but when it comes to league action they always fail to grab all three points. They need something special to beat Fulham. Maybe Rafael Van der Vaart is that certain something.
Redknapp will need to make sure that his players are totally focused on the game in hand and don't have one eye on their mouth-watering trip to Italy. If they do I'm sure the Cottagers will be ready to make their capital rivals pay dearly.
Spurs Travel Update
Friday 15th October 2010
Supporters planning on attending the match between Fulham and Tottenham this Saturday should note that London Underground maintenance works could affect their travel time.
There is no service on the entire Circle Line due to engineering work.
On the District Line there will be no service between Edgware Road and High Street Kensington due to engineering work. There will also be no service between Putney Bridge and Wimbledon due to signalling work.
The Hammersmith and City Line is also affected with no service Hammersmith and Moorgate due to line upgrade work.
It is recommended that supporters using the tube allow extra time for their journey. For more information, please check the Transport for London website|.
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Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/SpursTravelUpdate.aspx#ixzz12Pwja08K (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/SpursTravelUpdate.aspx#ixzz12Pwja08K)
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/striker-hopes-for-fulham-1107117.html (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/striker-hopes-for-fulham-1107117.html)
Striker hopes for Fulham
Last Updated: Fri, 15 Oct 2010 09:52
Fulham striker Andrew Johnson is pushing to be included in the squad for the Premier League home clash with Tottenham on Saturday.
Johnson has been out of the side with a leg injury but is closing in on a return but Fulham will be without Bobby Zamora until the new year at the earliest.
Zamora suffered a serious leg injury in the victory over Wolves and is out long term, but fellow striker Moussa Dembele is hopeful of a return following an ankle injury
David Stockdale (ankle), defender Philippe Senderos (Achilles) and defender Fredrik Stoor (groin) are all hoping for a return but will face a late test.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/46064/fulham-vs-tottenham/preview (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/46064/fulham-vs-tottenham/preview)
Fulham - Tottenham Preview: Moussa Dembele in line for return as Harry Redknapp's defensive problems ease
By Jamie Dunn
Moussa Dembele, who was sidelined by a late tackle by Stoke City's Andy Wilkinson in the League Cup, could return after taking part in a handful of training sessions. Andrew Johnson could also make his long-awaited comeback from a knee injury, while goalkeeper David Stockdale may also be available.
Bobby Zamora, Philippe Senderos and Stephen Kelly are all long-term absentees.
Possible Starting XI: Schwarzer; Baird, Hughes, Hangeland, Salcido; Davies, Etuhu, Murphy, Duff; Dempsey; Dembele.
Tottenham
Harry Redknapp could welcome back Younes Kaboul and William Gallas, who were both in training at Spurs Lodge on Thursday. Michael Dawson is also in with an outside chance of returning, while Benoit Assou-Ekotto is also expected to be fit following a knee injury.
Ledley King, Aaron Lennon and Jermain Defoe are unavailable, while Jamie O'Hara and Jonathan Woodgate are still without return dates.
Possible Starting XI: Gomes; Hutton, Kaboul, Gallas, Assou-Ekotto; Van der Vaart, Huddlestone, Modric, Bale; Pavlyuchenko, Crouch.
Spurs attempt to pick stubborn Cottage lock
Tottenham will arrive at Craven Cottage on Saturday knowing a win could temporarily send them as high as third, level on points with second-placed Manchester City.
But winning at Fulham has not proved to be easy for anyone this season. Mark Hughes' side are one of only two teams to remain unbeaten after seven games in the Premier League, sharing the honour with Manchester United, and have conceded just three goals at home.
However, they have won only one game so far this season, at home to 19th-placed Wolves, and so a defeat could see them make a significant drop into the bottom half of the table.
Unhappy hunting ground
Spurs will have to reverse a long spell without a Premier League victory at Craven Cottage if they are to be the first team to beat Fulham this season, though. Redknapp's side have not won there in the league since 2002, and recent visits will bring back unhappy memories for goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes.
In November 2008, the Brazilian handed Fulham the lead - literally - as he spilled a Simon Davies cross into his own net. Roy Hodgson's side went on to win the game 2-1, and the Spurs revival under Redknapp was halted.
Tottenham and Gomes are a different proposition these days though, and with talent like Gareth Bale at the top of his game, the visitors will be confident of securing a long-awaited win.
http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/10/15/fulham-v-tottenham-preview-danny-murphys-contribution-will-be/ (http://football.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/10/15/fulham-v-tottenham-preview-danny-murphys-contribution-will-be/)
Fulham v Tottenham Preview: Danny Murphy's Contribution Will be Key Factor
15/10/2010 5:30 AM GMT By Ben Hunt
PREMIER LEAGUE: CRAVEN COTTAGE, SATURDAY OCTOBER 16, 2010. KICK-OFF: 1500 BST
Both teams are eager to resume their Premier League campaigns after the international break. Fulham - along with Manchester United - have not suffered their first league defeat of the season yyet, an impressive record given they have a new manager in charge in Mark Hughes.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are eager to make amends for dropping points in their last away game at West Ham, Harry Redknapp's side looked in good form against Aston Villa in their last outing when they came from behind to win 2-1.
They have both have suffered their fair share of injuries during the early weeks of the season and, while the international break did stop their momentum, it has allowed those injury lists to improve.
It is still too early for their two main goalscorers in Tottenham's Jermain Defoe and Fulham's Bobby Zamora, who will be out until the New Year at the earliest, but there is good news in the pipeline for both teams with their other injured stars closing in on returns.
Key Match-up: Danny Murphy v Tom Huddlestone: Fulham's captain Murphy has seen his name plastered across the back pages of the daily newspapers following his comments that managers should be more accountable for some of their players' challenges. It was a bold statement from the midfielder who is no stranger to making strong challenges himself. All eyes will be on how he handles the pressure of playing against Tottenham's tough midfielder Huddlestone.
After England's dreary result against Montenegro, many English players will fancy their chances of staking a claim to be called up for the next international against France in November. One of them is Huddlestone, who has been earning rave reviews while playing for Spurs. The sturdy midfielder can play in the anchor role of Fabio Capello's 4-4-2 system allowing Steven Gerrard to get forward. The question is, can Huddlestone impress the Italian to enough to earn the chance to play? It should be possible task as Capello has handed debuts to Zamora and Kevin Davies in recent matches.
Form Guide: Fulham and Tottenham played each other four times last season - twice in the league and twice in the FA Cup. Fulham drew both the home games 0-0 while Spurs won 3-1 and 2-0 at White Hart Lane. In the 2008/09 season, the Cottagers won 2-1 at home with goals coming from Simon Davies and Andrew Johnson while the match finished 0-0 in north London. The head to head record between the two sides has Tottenham in front. They have won 35 times while Fulham just 11 in their previous 72 encounters. Both have made solid starts this season, but agree there is room for improvement.
Odds: Fulham 15-8, Tottenham 6-4, Draw 9-4
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FULHAM:
Simon Davies cannot wait to resume Fulham's Premier League campaign against his former club. The ex-Wales international says his team mates who have not been on international duty are raring to get going against Redknapp's side.
He told the club's website: "We've still been training very hard as the manger's really keen to keep people as fit as possible.
We had a nice weekend off but we came back and everyone's getting ready for Tottenham, which we know is going to be a tough game.
"They' have got some great individual players, as they always have had, but they're really playing as a team now. That's why they're doing so well in the league and in the Champions League.
"It's going to be a tough game but we've done all right against them over the last few years. The Cottage is a difficult place to come to and hopefully we can keep our home form going.
"We've got some creative players in midfield and with the way the manager likes the full backs to be attacking, when we've clicked into gear, like the first-half at West Ham, I think we played some really good football. We look a really dangerous team and it's been a shame that we haven't gone on and won a couple more games."
Strategy: Hughes is likely to opt for the same starting line-up that drew 1-1 with West Ham in their last match. The former Manchester United forward prefers to use a 4-4-2 system that will encourage his players to press forward. John Pantsil is hoping to be recalled in the right back position while Mousa Dembele will undergo a late fitness test on his leg to see if he can partner either Eddie Johnson or Diomansy Kamara in attack.
Injury Update: This match is expected to come too soon for Johnson, who is making steady progress from his knee problem. David Stockdale is likely to return to the bench after his lay off with an ankle problem. Zamora and Philippe Senderos are both long term casualties.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR:
Luka Modric has hailed the impact of his team mate Rafael van der Vaart since he moved to Tottenham. The transfer deadline day signing from Real Madrid has made an impressive start to his career at Spurs and scored both goals in their victory over Aston Villa.
And Modric believes there is still more to come from the Dutch international and is relishing forming a devastating partnership with him.
He told the club's website: "Rafa is an exceptional player and he's showed that since he came to the club. He's a great signing. He's played at great clubs, Ajax, Hamburg, Real Madrid and I think he can give more quality to the team. It's not hard to play well with that kind of player and I'm happy he's here with us.
"For me, I'm a little out of rhythm, I've had a couple of injuries this season and I'm not yet back into my rhythm but in a couple of games I'll settle down and play better. I just need to be fitter. It's been hard for me because I've had a couple of injures but in a couple of matches I'll be back into full shape."
Strategy: Van der Vaart and Modric will provide the creativity in Tottenham's midfield on the wings while Huddlestone and Jermaine Jenas will supply the power in midfield. The main area of concern for Redknapp is his defence but he is likely to be boosted by the return of William Gallas and Younes Kaboul.
Injury Update: Gallas (groin) and Kaboul (hamstring) are likely to be given the green light. Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee) and Michael Dawson (knee) could also return. Ledley King (groin), Jonathan Woodgate (groin), Defoe (ankle) and Aaron Lennon (back) are all still out.
Fulham v TOTTENHAM: Harry Redknapp may save Ledley King for Champions League
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 11:42 AM on 15th October 2010
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will leave it late to decide whether to play central defender Ledley King at Fulham or save him for Wednesday's Champions League encounter against Inter Milan.
Younes Kaboul and William Gallas, meanwhile, are back in training and David Bentley is on his way back from injury.
Long-term absentee Jonathan Woodgate, who has travelled the world in his search for a cure to his chronic injury problems, has had another injection in his troublesome groin and Redknapp says: 'We are staying positive and hoping he will play again.'
Team (from): Gomes, Hutton, Huddlestone, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Van der Vaart, Sandro, Jenas, Modric, Palacios, Bale, Pavlyuchenko, Lennon, Crouch, Cudicini, Keane, Kranjcar, Corluka, King.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320811/Fulham-v-TOTTENHAM-Harry-Redknapp-save-Ledley-King-Inter-Milan-tie.html#ixzz12QM7OPNI (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1320811/Fulham-v-TOTTENHAM-Harry-Redknapp-save-Ledley-King-Inter-Milan-tie.html#ixzz12QM7OPNI)
http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/45264/Cottagers_prepare_for_Spurs_derby_clash.aspx (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/45264/Cottagers_prepare_for_Spurs_derby_clash.aspx)
Cottagers prepare for Spurs derby clash
Author: Andrew Allen
Posted on:15 October 2010 - 11:20 AM
Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur go head-to-head in another all-London affair at Craven Cottage.
Under the guidance of Mark Hughes and Harry Redknapp respectively, the two teams have made fine starts to the new campaign.
Fulham sit in tenth place after one win and six draws from their opening seven outings while Spurs occupy fifth spot at this early stage.
Th Cottagers are proving a tough nut to crack and Hughes has certainly stamped his mark on the side after he replaced Roy Hodgson in the summer.
With Mark Schwarzer in between the sticks, he has been admirably supported by defenders Carlos Salcido, Brede Hangeland, Aaron Hughes and Chris Baird.
However, they face the sternest of tests this weekend with Spurs making the short trip to the banks of the River Thames.
With the likes of Rafael van der Vaart, Roman Pavlyuchenko, Peter Crouch and Gareth Bale finding form this season, it promises to be another intriguing top-flight showdown.
But the contest may come at the ideal time for Fulham with Spurs taking on Champions League holders Internazionale in Milan on Wednesday.
Redknapp may opt to rest a number of big-name players for the highly-anticipated European away day in Italy and he may be in somewhat of a quandary for this one.
Long-term injury victims Bobby Zamora (broken ankle) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles) are out, while Moussa Dembele (ankle) has returned to training but won't feature this weekend.
Striker Andrew Johnson is nearing a return from his knee injury and Stephen Kelly (calf) could be available.
Spurs are definitely without the stricken Jonathan Woodgate (groin), Jermaine Defoe (ankle), Michael Dawson (knee) and Jamie O'Hara (back).
England winger Aaron Lennon was forced to pull out of the national team squad for the midweek clash with Montenegro and he could be rested with their European test in mind.
Defenders Younes Kaboul (hamstring), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee), William Gallas and Ledley King (both groin) are nearing full fitness, but it remains to be seen whether they will come into the frame.
In the last Premier League meeting at SW6, there was little festive cheer last Boxing Day as they played out a dour goalless draw.
But just a month later, Spurs scored a 2-0 success at White Hart Lane to take the capital honours.
Crouch and David Bentley put the visitors to the sword on that evening and they would settle for much of the same this time around.
http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/10/15/redknapp_focus_is_on_fulham (http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/10/15/redknapp_focus_is_on_fulham)
Redknapp: Focus is on Fulham
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has warned his team their match against Fulham is more important than next Wednesday's Champions League encounter with Inter Milan in the San Siro.
Redknapp wants his side to concentrate on collecting league points in a bid to finish in the top four for the second consecutive season.
"It is hard balancing the Champions League with the Premier League," said Redknapp "But they've got to concentrate on the trip to Craven Cottage. That is the key now.
"The league position is all important because unless we win the Champions League we are not going to qualify for the Champions League next year. If we want to play Champions League football like Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal invariably do every year we have to finish in the top four again. That is our priority.
"We also want a good run in the Champions League but if you go out of the Champions League and finish halfway up the table, at the end of the year if you are not in European football it is not good.
"These next two league games for me are massive."
http://www.footymad.net/storytext.asp?article=320471
PREVIEW: FULHAM V TOTTENHAM
Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur go head-to-head in another all-London affair at Craven Cottage.
Under the guidance of Mark Hughes and Harry Redknapp respectively, the two teams have made fine starts to the new campaign.
Fulham sit in tenth place after one win and six draws from their opening seven outings while Spurs occupy fifth spot at this early stage.
Th Cottagers are proving a tough nut to crack and Hughes has certainly stamped his mark on the side after he replaced Roy Hodgson in the summer.
With Mark Schwarzer in between the sticks, he has been admirably supported by defenders Carlos Salcido, Brede Hangeland, Aaron Hughes and Chris Baird.
However, they face the sternest of tests this weekend with Spurs making the short trip to the banks of the River Thames.
With the likes of Rafael van der Vaart, Roman Pavlyuchenko, Peter Crouch and Gareth Bale finding form this season, it promises to be another intriguing top-flight showdown.
But the contest may come at the ideal time for Fulham with Spurs taking on Champions League holders Internazionale in Milan on Wednesday.
Redknapp may opt to rest a number of big-name players for the highly-anticipated European away day in Italy and he may be in somewhat of a quandary for this one.
Long-term injury victims Bobby Zamora (broken ankle) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles) are out, while Moussa Dembele (ankle) has returned to training but won't feature this weekend.
Striker Andrew Johnson is nearing a return from his knee injury and Stephen Kelly (calf) could be available.
Spurs are definitely without the stricken Jonathan Woodgate (groin), Jermaine Defoe (ankle), Michael Dawson (knee) and Jamie O'Hara (back).
England winger Aaron Lennon was forced to pull out of the national team squad for the midweek clash with Montenegro and he could be rested with their European test in mind.
Defenders Younes Kaboul (hamstring), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee), William Gallas and Ledley King (both groin) are nearing full fitness, but it remains to be seen whether they will come into the frame.
In the last Premier League meeting at SW6, there was little festive cheer last Boxing Day as they played out a dour goalless draw.
But just a month later, Spurs scored a 2-0 success at White Hart Lane to take the capital honours.
Crouch and David Bentley put the visitors to the sword on that evening and they would settle for much of the same this time around.
http://www.spursodyssey.com/1011/prevpackfua.html
Spurs Odyssey Preview - Fulham v Spurs - 16.10.10
· Last Season's Corresponding Game - 0-0
· This week - last year
· What happened in the Premiership in Match 8 2009-10
· NEW! - See the current injury list for all Premiership Teams!
· All the Spurs Stats you could hope for here! THFC6061 Sports Stats
Full Record of Spurs -v- Fulham
Premier Pl W D L For-Ag Pts
Home 9 5 3 1 15 - 5 18
Away 9 1 3 5 10 -14 6
===========================================
Total(Prem) 18 6 6 6 25 - 19 24
===========================================
Football Lge
Home(Div 1) 11 8 3 0 28 - 13 19
Away(Div 1) 11 6 4 1 17 - 12 16
===========================================
Total(Div 1) 22 14 7 1 45 - 25 35
===========================================
Football Lge
Home(Div 2) 11 4 6 1 13 - 8 14
Away(Div 2) 11 4 5 2 20 - 16 13
===========================================
Total(Div 2) 22 8 11 3 33 - 24 27
===========================================
Total(Prem) 18 6 6 6 25 - 19 24
Total(Div 1) 22 14 7 1 45 - 25 35
Total(Div 2) 22 8 11 3 33 - 24 27
===========================================
Grand Total 62 28 24 10 103 - 68 86
===========================================
Last Six Premiership results:-
Fulham
Fulham 2-2 Man Utd
Blackpool 2-2 Fulham
Fulham 2-1 Wolves
Blackburn 1-1 Fulham
Fulham 0-0 Everton
West Ham 1-1 Fulham
Spurs
Stoke 1-2 Spurs
Spurs 0-1 Wigan
West Brom 1-1 Spurs
Spurs 3-1 Wolves
West Ham 1-0 Spurs
Spurs 2-1 A. Villa
Pos P W D L F-A GD Pts
5 Spurs 7 3 2 2 8-6 2 11
10 Fulham 7 1 6 0 8-7 1 9
Time to make a mark
Mark Hughes' Fulham are one of only two unbeaten teams in this season's Premier League. The other is Manchester United. Both have drawn the higher proportion of their games, which means they are not as high in the league as they might otherwise have been. In Fulham's case, they have only managed one win in their seven games, which came at home against Wolves, and was courtesy of a last minute goal by new signing Moussa Dembele. Dembele scored Fulham's other goal too, and his first league goals gave Fulham fans a little hope in the knowledge that Bobby Zamora had his leg broken in the same game by Wolves skipper Karl Henry. The Wolves "anti-football" tag started here.
Unfortunately for Fulham, Dembele has been out since 21st September with an ankle injury, but he could be back to face us on Saturday. Former Spur Stephen Kelly may just miss this game with a calf muscle strain, but former gooner Senderos is Fulham's only other long term injury worry. Senderos has yet to play a competitive game for his new club, having suffered his ankle injury against Spain in the World Cup. In fact Senderos has only played 9 competitive games over the last year, and most of those have been for Switzerland.
Fulham do still have the mainstay of their defence though - Brede Hangeland. He won't be dwarfed by Peter Crouch, assuming the Englishman resumes his successful partnership with Rafael van der Vaart. Another summer signing Carlos Salcido has been a 90 minute man in 5 of Fulham's games so far, but he was busy in the 2-2 draw between Mexico and Venezuela on Tuesday. Our own Giovani scored a goal in that game, but as opposed to Salcido, he is unlikely to feature at Craven Cottage.
Fulham lost Paul Konchesky to Liverpool and Chris Smalling to Man Utd in the summer (Smalling was signed and loaned back in January, but has now gone permanently), but otherwise they have retained plenty of familiar faces, such as Mark Schwarzer, Simon Davies, Danny Murphy and Clint Dempsey. Dempsey has a compatriot and possible strike partner in Eddie Johnson, but if Dembele returns, Johnson may miss out. Fulham also signed former West Brom midfielder Jonathan Greening permanently, but he hasn't featured much this season. Danny Murphy will be as determined as ever to make an impression against the team that he used to play for occasionally.
Hopefully, all Spurs Internationals have returned unscathed from their travels on this International break. Benoit Assou-Ekotto came off after 70 minutes in his game for Cameroon against Congo last Saturday, but should be okay to play this week. We should also be hopeful that Younes Kaboul and William Gallas are fit again after their recent absences. Ledley will presumably be held back for next week's Inter game, although he too has been suffering a groin strain on top of his usual troubles. According to the Physio Room site, even Michael Dawson might be back soon, but I cannot imagine he will be available for selection for a couple of weeks at least.
Both teams will be keen to make a mark on this game for the right reasons. Fulham need their second league win of the season, which would put them above Spurs and give them a real fillip. Similarly, Spurs want another win and consistency to stake their continuing claim to a top four place. It's a difficult game to call, and one goal might just be enought to secure the three points. Let's just hope it's Spurs!
http://www.adifferentleague.co.uk/p6_1_4714_club-focus-fulham-on-the-pitch-is-where-it-counts.html
Club Focus - Fulham - On the pitch is where it counts
By Matt Domm
Friday 15 October 2010
Getting back to football on the pitch is exactly what Fulham, and, more specifically Danny Murphy, need. With a week off from club fixtures, matters in SW6 tend to be ignored. However, after Murphy came out and condemned three particular club managers - whose sides Fulham faced in consecutive games recently - attention has been focused on the Whites captain.
Some will agree with the ex-Liverpool man, others won't, but his opinion is no less valid than anyone else in the game. Having been shrewdly asked to withdraw from his punditry role for the recent England qualifier by his manager Mark Hughes, Murphy will surely be looking forward to getting back on the field, where he does his best talking. His 33-year-old legs may sometimes fade towards the end of 90 minutes, and he may start to become a target for players who disagree with his views, but he possesses the ability to create time and space where none exists, which is a talent that will not be lost as the physical side of his game will inevitably decline.
His leadership qualities on the pitch, too, mean he is always listened to and respected by his teammates and could be why some are taking notice and - quietly, perhaps - agreeing with his recent comments. On Saturday, Murphy returns to his most recent former club, against whom he will feel he has unfinished business. Having never quite fit into the Tottenham setup, the Englishman will likely have the fire in his belly he so regularly shows against ex-clubs and rival ones. With the recent media focus, in particular the League Manager's Association's less-than subtle response, Hughes could do worse than use that as ammunition to spur his playmaker on to a strong performance. Against an always solid Tottenham side, any opportunity to turn a situation into an advantage is needed.
It is out of Murphy's hands whether over-zealous challenges are to be looked at by the governing bodies, but leading by example and showing how he believes the game should be played is very much within his capabilities. At his best, Murphy cannot be dispossessed, he can thread a needle with the ball, and he can inspire the men around him. While he is of course not getting any younger, he has enough in the tank to turn in match-winning performances, of which Fulham fans will be hoping Saturday is one. Perhaps most importantly of all, with his advancing years, Murphy has matured into a player who is rarely ruffled. Passionate and self-critical, yes, but he is strong enough to cope with the fallout his comments have created.
As Hughes looks for only his second win so far this season, Saturday's London derby will be a gripping encounter, and all eyes will be on Murphy. Should he rise to the challenge, there is every chance of the Cottage outfit taking the points.
Tyrone James Returns
Friday 15th October 2010
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/FoundationEvents/TyroneJames.jpg)
This month Fulham will be celebrating equality and diversity in football by supporting Kick It Out's One Game, One Community weeks of action campaign which take place from 14-26 October.
Tyrone James, one of the first black players to represent Fulham, was a recent visitor to the Club's Motspur Park training ground. James broke into the Fulham side at a time when the team featured such illustrious names as Bobby Moore, Alan Mullery, Rodney Marsh and George Best.
"I was already at Fulham as a young player and the first players to join while I was there was Bobby Moore, I had already met him when I was about 16 and went for trials with West Ham," James recalled. "There was Bobby Moore, Billy Bonds, Harry Redknapp and Trevor Brooking at West Ham. I went to Fulham when West Ham couldn't keep me on as an apprentice.
"When I came back from my holiday, my mum told me that Bobby Moore's going to play at Fulham. When I walked in Bobby Moore was sitting opposite me, he looked at me and said, 'Hey, Tyrone. How's it going? What's it like here at Fulham, is it a good club?' I never spoke to him as a junior at West Ham but he remembered me from training and obviously asked who I was. When he spoke to me, everyone else was in shock.
"Alan Mullery, Rodney Marsh and George Best were also there. The attendances grew, the training got more serious because the Club needed to go forward and show that they meant business."
Soon enough James had impressed enough people behind the scenes to be handed his Fulham debut and in the process became one of the first black players to feature for the Club.
"The youth team would train and the reserves and seniors would be way off training," James recalled. "At one time during the season, three players got injured; Alan Slough, John Fraser and John Cutbush. One Friday afternoon Alan Mullery came over to me and said, 'The Gaffer wants to talk to you.' So I walked into his office, Alec Stock was the coach, he looked at me a said, 'you're going to get a lot of phone calls today. You're playing tomorrow.'
"You always train to play because you don't know who will be watching you. I never trained with the first team, I never made the bench for the first team but because of the way I was training and the reports from my coach, they gave me my debut – just for my performances in training.
"On the day of my debut I was nervous. I drove to the ground in the team coach. There were lots of people waiting. I got into the changing room and sat in the corner with all of the senior players.
"All the players had been there and done it like Alan Mullery, Les Strong, Bobby Moore and Peter Mellor. I just sat there minding my own business.
"The game went really fast. Bobby Moore was at the back with me and he told me how to go through it. I couldn't wait to get home to see the game on TV."
Looking back on his time at Craven Cottage, James had particularly fond memories of the Fulham faithful.
"The fans were very supportive," he said. "They gave you encouragement, especially as a young player. But the only time you heard the crowd was when the game stopped because when the games going on you're in such a zone. When it stopped, there was a lot of encouragement. Win, lose or draw they made you feel welcome and good to be part of the club."
However, there was also an ugly facet to the game in those days, which black players like James had to deal with. Yet in the face of racism, James showed admirable strength of character to get on with the game.
"I remember in my playing days sometimes you would go out and some fans would be calling you names," he said. "You'd think that you couldn't stay out there and would have to go back into the changing rooms. Or when it was quiet and you'd go to pick up a ball, a supporter would bend over and say his bit.
"I've had a few things but I let it go. When they play with your mind - that can put you off your game. But I learnt from an early age that if you give as good as you take and then more - then it's your will against their will – and they won't come back again.
"In my time, black players were considered to be lightweight, you can get to their mind and they didn't want the physical side of the game. When I played I didn't mind that, I was there as a defender and I had to stop the attacker. I had to be strong and fit and get possession for the team.
"You learn to step forward all the time. It's easier to make excuses about people saying things or things happening. You can lose your direction. I always say, whenever you're in the ground, whatever colour you are and whatever the supporters say to you – that's their opinion. You focus on what you have to do and what you've been coached to do. Your coaches expect that of you and so do the players you play with.
"When you get off the pitch, that's the environment you live in and you have to deal with that. But when you get on the pitch, if you can't switch off you'll never become what you want to become."
James resides in Australia but recently met up with a group of kids from Fulham FC Foundation's Merton Kickz project. He first met the group this time last year and spoke of his experience of playing for Fulham in the 1970s and some of the the racism he was subjected to.
.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/TyroneJamesVisit.aspx#ixzz12QRegvmn (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/TyroneJamesVisit.aspx#ixzz12QRegvmn)
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6445764,00.html
Redknapp focused on Fulham
Spurs boss targets top-four finish
Last updated: 15th October 2010
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has urged his players to put Wednesday's UEFA Champions League trip to Inter Milan at the back of their minds when they face Fulham on Saturday.
Spurs continue their European adventure against the defending champions next week, however a trip to Craven Cottage is their more immediate priority this weekend.
Redknapp's side currently sit fifth in the Premier League and the Tottenham boss wants his players to concentrate on collecting league points in a bid to finish in the top four for the second consecutive season.
"It is hard balancing the Champions League with the Premier League," said Redknapp.
"But they've got to concentrate on the trip to Craven Cottage. That is the key now.
"The league position is all important because unless we win the Champions League we are not going to qualify for the Champions League next year.
Fantastic
"If we want to play Champions League football like Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal invariably do every year we have to finish in the top four again. That is our priority.
"We also want a good run in the Champions League but if you go out of the Champions League and finish halfway up the table, at the end of the year if you are not in European football it is not good.
"These next two league games for me are massive."
Redknapp will leave it as late as possible before he decides whether to play central defender Ledley King at Craven Cottage.
King, because of his chronic knee problem, cannot play two games in quick succession.
Redknapp said: "The only juggling act I've got is Ledley. He's a fantastic player but if I play him tomorrow he doesn't play on Wednesday. If I play him tomorrow he could play again next Saturday so I get two league games out of him."
Younes Kaboul and William Gallas, meanwhile, are back in training and David
Bentley is on his way back from injury.
Long-term absentee Jonathan Woodgate, who has travelled the world in his search for a cure to his chronic injury problems, has had another injection in his troublesome groin and Redknapp says: "We are staying positive and hoping he will play again."
.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9085479.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9085479.stm)
Fulham v Tottenham
Live text and stats
Saturday, 16 October 2010
Premier League
Home Team Score Away Team Time
Fulham v Tottenham 15:00
FULHAMTOTTENHAMPossessionFulham 50%Tottenham 50%Attempts on targetFulham 0Tottenham 0Attempts off targetFulham 0Tottenham 0CornersFulham 0Tottenham 0FoulsFulham 0Tottenham 0
Barclays Premier League
Venue: Craven Cottage Date: Saturday, 16 October Kick-off: 1500 BST
Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio 5 live, local radio, Final Score & highlights on Match of the Day
TEAM NEWS
Fulham's Moussa Dembele could play a part as he steps up his return from an ankle injury suffered against Stoke.
Andrew Johnson is in line to make his comeback after spending nine months on the sidelines with a knee injury.
Tottenham will be without winger Aaron Lennon following the back problem that forced him out of the England squad.
Younes Kaboul and William Gallas may return after injury and Niko Kranjcar is pushing for a starting spot after scoring three times for Croatia.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fulham
Doubtful: Dembele (ankle), A Johnson (knee)
Injured: Kelly (calf), Senderos (Achilles), Zamora (leg)
Tottenham
Doubtful: Assou-Ekotto (knee), Gallas (groin), Kaboul (hamstring)
Injured: Dawson (knee & ankle), Defoe (ankle), King (knee), Lennon (back), O'Hara (back), Woodgate (groin)
MATCH PREVIEW
The only time Mark Hughes has experienced defeat in his last 19 league matches as a manager came at the hands of Tottenham when he was in charge of Manchester City back in December 2009.
We look a really dangerous team and it has been a shame that we have not gone on and won a couple more games
Fulham's Simon Davies
His reign as Fulham boss has got off to an excellent start and the unbeaten Cottagers have lost none of the solidity that made them such a force to be reckoned with under Roy Hodgson.
Turning draws into victories is now their priority and they will be confident going into Saturday's London derby, given that they have not lost to Spurs at home in the league since 2002.
Harry Redknapp's men could be excused for having one eye on Wednesday night as they get the chance to test themselves against the very best Europe has to offer when they play defending Champions League winners Inter Milan at the imposing San Siro.
Rafael van der Vaart is suspended for that game so the deadline day capture from Real Madrid, who has been an absolute revelation since signing for the club, will be sure to try even harder at Craven Cottage.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
• Three out of the last six encounters between Fulham and Tottenham in all competitions have been 0-0 draws.
• Both sides have won six of their previous 18 Premier League meetings, with six draws.
• This is the 73rd league meeting between the sides. Tottenham have won 35 times, Fulham 11 and there have been 26 draws.
606: DEBATE
Have your say on this match
Fulham
• Danny Murphy stands fourth in the table for the total amount of passes made this season (470). Only Paul Scholes, John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien have made more.
• If selected to play against his former club, Simon Davies will be making the 300th league start of his career.
• Mark Hughes has now drawn 14 of his last 18 matches as a manager, six out of seven games with Fulham and eight out of his last 11 fixtures as Manchester City boss.
Tottenham
• Against Aston Villa, striker Peter Crouch assisted two goals in a league match for the first time in what was his 232nd game in the top flight.
• Tottenham have only been ahead at half time in one of their seven league fixtures this season.
• No player has created more chances (20) than Gareth Bale this season in the league, but he is still yet to be credited with an assist.
• Spurs have kept just two clean sheets in 12 games in all competitions this season.
LEADING GOALSCORERS
Fulham
Dembele: 3 goals (2 league); Zamora: 3 goals (1 league)
Tottenham
Van der Vaart 4 goals (3 league);
Pavlyuchenko: 4 goals (1 league);
Crouch: 4 goals (0 league)
MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Mike Dean
Assistant referees: Simon Beck & Martin Yerby
Fourth official: Andre Marriner
LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
Fulham (D1-1 v West Ham, a): Schwarzer, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Salcido, Davies (Riise 90), Etuhu, Murphy, Duff (Gera 69), Eddie Johnson (Kamara 77), Dempsey. Subs not used: Etheridge, Pantsil, Greening, Halliche.
Tottenham (W2-1 v Aston Villa, h): Gomes, Hutton, Huddlestone, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Van der Vaart (Sandro 90), Jenas, Modric (Palacios 77), Bale, Pavlyuchenko (Lennon 46), Crouch. Subs not used: Cudicini, Keane, Kranjcar, Corluka.
http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/10/back_to_action_spurs_preview.php (http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/10/back_to_action_spurs_preview.php)
Back to Action - Spurs Preview
Posted by Phil Mison 51 minutes ago
Anticipation ahead of the derby sell-out v Spurs is sky high with Danny's incendiary remarks still making smoke. Time to let our football do the talking and send Spurs packing with a solid performance.
In no sense do I underestimate the quality of Saturday's opponents. We couldn't beat them in four attempts last season and Spurs are much improved from the joke side they had become two years ago, when we took four points from them in the league. We had the better of both home encounters last season but couldn't find a finish, while on a bitter January night at the Lane we were punchless, injury weakened and victims of bad luck in conceding two poor goals. The cup replay was bizarre - at HT I was convinced we were en route for Wembley at 1-0 up. Harry's subs punctured our balloon in short order after the break.
Are Spurs going to have one eye on their Champions League trip to Milan next week? Surely yes. While we lament the absence of BZ the Spuds also have a raft of big players unavailable. No hint as to our starting line-up, but no additional injuries reported from the returning internationals. Having Dembele starting will be a big boost, we hear he may need a late fitness test. AJ on the bench is distinctly possible. Clint's been in fine form recently.
We're still short of being the finished article under Hughes. He's done well to keep us unbeaten to date, but the inability to turn draws into wins is becoming a might worrying. The players however say they are all going in the same direction, and we assume the side gets stronger week by week under our new regime.
How do we keep Spurs in their place and continue the winless run at the Cottage? Five wins and three draws in our favour since 2002, although the bookies all favour the draw. We must not let Huddlestone dictate the midfield, we must get penetration down the flanks, we need to eliminate soft goals being conceded from the back four and whoever keeps goal on Saturday.
Mike Dean please note we are long overdue a penalty, one of just six clubs remaining without an award to date this campaign.
It's a derby for heaven's sake, we're all champing at the bit after the break. We need some of the bulldog spirit shown against United - but no leg-breaking challenges please - we're attracting enough flak as it is. Let's treat this one like a cup-tie, and if you're lucky enough to have a ticket, make some noise!
COYW
London's oldest professional football club, Fulham FC
http://www.rovers.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10303~2185470,00.html (http://www.rovers.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10303~2185470,00.html)
Robbo on the attack
Posted on: Fri 15 Oct 2010
PAUL Robinson was 'surprised and disappointed' by derogatory remarks about Rovers from Fulham skipper Danny Murphy.
Murphy recently inferred that Rovers, along with Stoke and Wolves, were a 'dirty' team and Sam Allardyce was among the top level managers who pumped up his players too much - something Murphy reckoned was contributing to the alleged rise in dangerous tackles.
But Rovers' goalkeeper Robinson, a one-time colleague of Murphy's at Spurs, said: "It is very disappointing when a fellow professional feels the need to criticise other players. It came out of the blue and there was no relevance to it.
"I usually don't think we need defend ourselves, our record over the last two or three years speaks for itself, but there are some things that you just can't let pass.
"When you look at the statistics over the past two or three years since the manager has come in our record has been excellent. We've had one player sent off this calendar year.
"Our yellow and red card count last season when we finished tenth than was much better than the same when Rovers finished tenth under Mark Hughes, so we are pleased with the way we go about our business here and we conduct ourselves correctly.
As for suggestions that professional football has got less tough despite a recent flurry of high profile tackles, Robbo added: "The game has definitely got less tough over the years, there are a lot less thing you can do.
"But it would be criminal to outlaw tackles in the game. It is a physical contact sport, a man's game.
"The more things are analysed by the media the worse they start to look. That makes it harder for referees and increases pressure with players wanting other players sent off.
"We should all just get on with the game and then there would be fewer and fewer injuries. The comments were out of order but we should move on."
http://www.sportingpreview.com/matches/10110556.php
FULHAM v TOTTENHAM: BIG MATCH STATS AND FACTS
SportingPreview.com: 15 October 2010
Mark Hughes has drawn 14 of his last 18 matches as a Premier League manager.
• Spurs have only won one of their nine Premier League away games against Fulham and none of the last eight.
• Fulham have failed to score in the last three Premier League games against Spurs.
• Five of the last eight matches between Spurs and Fulham have ended as draws, three of them goalless.
• Fulham have failed to score in four of their last five matches against Spurs in all competitions.
• Tottenham have conceded exactly one goal in each of their last six Premier League matches.
• Three out of the last six encounters between Fulham and Tottenham in all competitions have been 0-0 draws.
• Both sides have won six of their previous 18 Premier League meetings, with six draws.
• This is the 73rd league meeting between the sides. Tottenham have won 35 times, Fulham 11 and there have been 26 draws.
• Danny Murphy stands fourth in the table for the total amount of passes made this season (470). Only Paul Scholes, John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien have made more.
• If selected to play against his former club, Simon Davies will be making the 300th league start of his career.
• Mark Hughes has now drawn 14 of his last 18 matches as a manager, six out of seven games with Fulham and eight out of his last 11 fixtures as Manchester City boss.
• Against Aston Villa, striker Peter Crouch assisted two goals in a league match for the first time in what was his 232nd game in the top flight.
• Tottenham have only been ahead at half time in one of their seven league fixtures this season.
• No player has created more chances (20) than Gareth Bale this season in the league, but he is still yet to be credited with an assist.
• Spurs have kept just two clean sheets in 12 games in all competitions this season.
http://twitter.com/fulhamfc (http://twitter.com/fulhamfc)
"Mousa Dembele is available for Saturday's match against Spurs but unfortunately Dickson misses out with an ankle injury."
http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/10/15/duo_out_for_cottagers (http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/10/15/duo_out_for_cottagers)
Duo out for Cottagers
Damien Duff and Dickson Etuhu will miss Fulham's Barclays Premier League clash with Tottenham.
Duff is being rested in an attempt to overcome a niggling calf injury while Etuhu will be out for between two to three weeks with an ankle problem.
Mousa Dembele is available after recovering from his ankle injury but Andy Johnson (knee) is still one week away from a first-team return.
http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2010/1015/fulham_tottenham.html (http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2010/1015/fulham_tottenham.html)
Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur
Friday, 15 October 2010 14:21
Damien Duff and Dickson Etuhu will miss Fulham's Barclays Premier League clash with Tottenham.
Duff is being rested in an attempt to overcome a niggling calf injury while Etuhu will be out for between two to three weeks with an ankle problem.
Mousa Dembele is available after recovering from his ankle injury but Andy Johnson (knee) is still one week away from a first team return.
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will leave it late to decide whether to play central defender Ledley King at Fulham or save him for Wednesday's Champions League encounter against Inter Milan.
Younes Kaboul and William Gallas, meanwhile, are back in training and David Bentley is on his way back from injury.
Long-term absentee Jonathan Woodgate, who has travelled the world in his search for a cure to his chronic injury problems, has had another injection in his troublesome groin and Redknapp says: 'We are staying positive and hoping he will play again.'
Fulham squad: Schwarzer, Etheridge, Kelly, Pantsil, Salcido, Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Halliche, Gera, Murphy, Riise, Dempsey, E Johnson, Greening, Davies, Dikgacoi, Kamara, Dembele.
Tottenham squad: Gomes, Hutton, Huddlestone, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Van der Vaart, Sandro, Jenas, Modric, Palacios, Bale, Pavlyuchenko, Lennon, Crouch, Cudicini, Keane, Kranjcar, Corluka, King.
http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/10/15/hughes_leaps_to_murphys_defence (http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/10/15/hughes_leaps_to_murphys_defence)
Hughes leaps to Murphy's defence
Mark Hughes has defended Danny Murphy in response to the furore over the Fulham captain's comments that some managers send their players out too pumped up.
Stoke, Wolves and Blackburn were named by Murphy, who branded some tackles "ridiculous" and "brainless" and insisted managers should take responsibility.
Rovers boss Sam Allardyce led the backlash by demanding an apology but Hughes refused to condemn his player.
"You must recognise that Danny is at the coalface," said Hughes. "In his view in certain games against certain opposition, opponents have over-stepped the mark. You have to accept that because even as a manager you don't know the intent of somebody.
"As a player I knew when someone was over-stepping the line or just making a fair and competitive tackle. There's a lot been said about Danny being disrespectful to the manager but having had conversations with him he has huge respect for the managers of the teams he mentioned.
"Maybe the fact we had recent history against the teams he mentioned was fresh in his mind and he was giving examples. We're disappointed by the reaction to it. You must respect he has an opinion. He was being honest. He's probably been surprised by the reaction. He wanted to make a point. Whether he did that in the right manner is open to debate."
http://jimmyg2.blogspot.com/2010/10/oh-to-be-in-fulham-now-that-spurs-are.html
Oh to be in Fulham now that Spurs are there.
Well you can't say you weren't warned though few suspected that England could be quite so dire. Crouch who contrived to miss his only opportunity was poor.. However he played without support from Rooney who spent most of the game too deep in midfield, and without service from two wingers who rarely beat their fullbacks on the outside and who between them failed to get one cross on target. If Crouch had headed the ball back in, across or down there would have been no-one there to profit.
Barry and Gerrard were too deep and most of their 40yd. Hollywood passes were intercepted. The back four played at a pace that even snails would have been ashamed of. The Montenegran defence had time to brew up, wash up and put the crockery away before getting into position. At least Huddlestone and Lennon our other conscripts were spared the ignominy of turning out for what should have been Capello's last match. Anyone who wasn't being paid even more than some top flight footballers would have done the honourable thing by now. Too well paid to resign and too expensive to to be sacked.
The replacement of Crouch by Davies, the angel faced thug of the Premiership, Heskey without the finesse, was possibly the low water mark of English football in a very dry season indeed. He committed five fouls in as many minutes, got booked as he does regularly, and at 33 is unlikely to make another appearance, thus securing his legacy as a Trivial Pursuits question.
What message does it send to aspiring players that a man who has more yellow cards than goals to his name is selected? I know that Defoe, Bent and others were injured but if there isn't a better English prospect somewhere in the league than an ageing bovver boy who like Heskey rarely scores then we might as well give up now. Michael Owen or Andy Carroll would have been better calls.
And now thank god we can return to the serious, proper football with the visit of Spurs to Fulham with just Defoe and Dawson still suffering wounds from the international front line. Everyone else has returned without mishap as far as I can discover, some like Kranjcar with their reputations enhanced. Gio, Van de Vaart and Modric also did well.
The Fulham game will be played once again with one eye on the trip to Italy in the Champions' League and some players may be rested for this. Playing with one eye on the game after next may explain the failure of our strikers to hit the target. Again I would prefer to play our strongest squad against Fulham and let the Inter Milan game take care of itself. Ledley might be kept for Italy but to be honest second guessing Harry is a mugs' game. Van de Vaart is banned for midweek and will probably play off Crouch against Fulham.
A point will certainly do against Inter but we will be looking for more than this against Fulham who have yet to lose this season. They have however only won once in seven and lie two points behind us in 9th. Mark Hughes starting at the top as team manager of Wales is slowly making his way down the league. He has replaced Roy Hodgson and has yet to work any sort of magic on draw specialists Fulham who are struggling for goals in the absence of Zamora.
Last season we played them four times, drawing 0-0 twice in the League, the same in the Cup before finally beating them 3-1 in the replay at WHL. Despite there being few goals the games were entertaining and our record against Fulham in the Premiership is pretty evenly balanced. It's a game that we need to win to maintain our League position and to build momentum for Wednesday. It's a game that we could certainly win on paper. Yeah, yeah, I know matches are not played on paper.
Our injury list is the biggest in the Premiership according to 'The Physio Room' and I await the team news with a little trepidation. Hutton, Kaboul, King, Gallas, Ekotto, and Lennon are all recovering from injury in addition to our long term injured. So Corluka could return at right back and Bale play at left back. Bassong and Huddlestone may appear at centre half. I expect a low scoring game at Fulham but think we will run out 1-0 winners.
Against Inter I think we will see a defensive strategy with a 0-0 or 1-1 the likely outcome. Harry might just try a little bluff accepting that Spurs play better at a high tempo and concentrate on attack. But he has had his fingers burnt already this season and might settle for a waltz rather than a quickstep. Two draws wouldn't be a disaster but against Fulham with Van de Vaart buzzing and perhaps Kranjcar in good form we might just be keen to take the league pressure off in this game.
Latest Team News
Friday 15th October 2010
The Whites return to Barclays Premier League action on Saturday when Spurs visit Craven Cottage for an eagerly awaited encounter.
Speaking ahead of Saturday's match, Fulham Manager Mark Hughes revealed the latest team news.
"We haven't got Dickson Etuhu available unfortunately. He's got a problem with his ankle," Hughes said. "He's likely to be out for about two to three weeks. It's a bit of a blow, he just had a situation in the last game where he has gone over on his ankle and as he's gone over the lad's stepped on his foot and that's given him a problem with the ligaments. It's a disappointment for him and for us.
"Damien Duff isn't available either, he has obviously had an ongoing issue with his calf which we think needs a little bit more rest and once he has that and a bit more treatment then he will be fully recovered.
"He's been playing with the injury and that hasn't helped him so we're going to give him extra time to get over it and get a full week's training into him and then he'll be fit and well for the rest of the season we hope."
There was better news regarding Mousa Dembele who will be available for selection. Andrew Johnson is also close to full fitness, although this weekend's match may come a bit too soon for the Fulham striker – as Hughes explained.
"Andy [Johnson] is very, very close, he won't be involved this weekend, we feel it's more appropriate that he gets another ninety minutes, well he actually hasn't had ninety minutes yet.
"I feel it's better for Andy if he has a full ninety minutes, we've got a game on Tuesday at Southampton, which he'll play in. Hopefully he'll come through that, there's no reason why he shouldn't do because he's been training well with the group for a couple of weeks now but I think that will be the final tick in the box and from that point onwards he'll be available for selection."
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Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/HughesSpursTeamNews.aspx#ixzz12R5HADHg (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/HughesSpursTeamNews.aspx#ixzz12R5HADHg)
http://www.thepost.ie/breakingnews/sport/eyqlqlidmhoj/ (http://www.thepost.ie/breakingnews/sport/eyqlqlidmhoj/)
Pulis slams 'selective' Murphy
15/10/2010 - 14:59:48
Stoke boss Tony Pulis today accused Danny Murphy of picking on "easy targets" and suggested the Fulham captain may have deliberately shied away from criticising bigger clubs when speaking about dangerous tackling last week.
Murphy claimed players are being injured because certain managers are sending their teams out too fired up, with the Potters one of three clubs – along with Blackburn and Wolves – that he named specifically.
His comments have created a storm and after Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce yesterday challenged Murphy to publicly apologise for the remarks, Pulis has now had his say on the matter.
Reading a statement aloud at today's press conference, Pulis said: "Two challenges this season have been committed by top players who represented their countries at this summer's World Cup.
"One challenge on Newcastle's Hatem Ben Arfa by Nigel de Jong of Manchester City recently led to a broken bone.
"Another by Joe Cole, one of our most technically gifted players, resulted in a sending off for one of our most celebrated clubs in the country, Liverpool, who are currently managed by Roy Hodgson, someone I have great respect for.
"Even the technically best players are prone to making mistimed challenges. But have they really been sent out to hurt a fellow professional? I don't think so.
"How ironic it is that Danny Murphy chose not to discuss either challenge or manager in respect of those tackles. How selective can someone be?
"Maybe Murphy's pursuit of a new career in the media does not allow him to criticise, or fall out with the Premier League big boys.
"Instead, in my opinion, he has selected easy targets that are based on his own perception and not facts."
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=832439&sec=england&cc=5739
Wenger sees some truth in Murphy's claims
By ESPNsoccernet staff
October 15, 2010
Arsene Wenger agrees with Danny Murphy's claim that managers have a influence over the way players behave but stressed that they are responsible for their own actions.
Fulham midfielder Murphy caused controversy in England when he said managers may be to blame for some of the more forceful challenges in the Premier League as the players are so fired up to defend.
Wenger believes managers do play a part in the mindset of their players but feels that the ultimate responsibility lies with those committing the tackles.
"I believe Murphy said we as managers have a responsibility regarding the behaviour of our team, and I agree, I do not deny it," he said. "I am not in the other dressing room, so I do not know [what goes on].
"I never ask any player if he has been wound up by his manager. I always say the same thing - the referees have the rules for them and [have] to get the game respected, the players have to respect each other, no matter what they are instructed to do."
He added: "I am a strong believer you are responsible for what you say and what you do. When I make a mistake, I do not look at anybody else, to say 'it is his fault'. It is my fault and if I behave wrongly, it is my fault, it is not somebody else's.
"If a player does bad tackling, it is too easy to hide behind the manager's instruction because you are responsible for how you behave.
"I do not want to add anything to what I have said many times - I like commitment and physical games, but it has to be in a fair way because it can only work if everybody goes into it in a fair way."
Wenger also confirmed he has no plans to offer a contract to Robert Pires. The former Arsenal winger is a free agent after leaving Villarreal at the end of last season and has been training at London Colney.
"We have enough players," he said. "We have a big squad - we have 25 players. We will respect our wages bill and we will not go above what we have planned financially with the players.
"It is time for us to get the players back on the pitch because we pay as well the players who don't play. We want them back on the pitch and we have medically to make a big effort to get everybody back.
"You want your players to perform on the football pitch."
Wenger also said he was not concerned by Cesc Fabregas' comments that Arsenal are lacking a winning mentality.
"It can be misinterpreted. I think everybody has a great desire to win, but you get a winning mentality as well when you have won," Wenger said. "What is at stake for us is not the desire to win, but to make history and to win trophies.
"As long as you have not won you are not completely certain that you can do it - but that does not mean that you lack the desire to win. This team has a great desire to win, but you have to show it week in week out.
"This life, at the top level today, in the best league in the world, is to turn up every single game at full cylinders."
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6446234,00.html
Harry - We respect Murphy
Harry's men meet Murphy's Fulham this weekend
By Adrian Del Monte
Last updated: 15th October 2010
Harry Redknapp has denied any ill feeling towards Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy after his controversial comments earlier in the week.
Murphy put the increase in reckless challenges and serious injuries down to managers who send out their players too "pumped up".
Despite the comments, Redknapp has affirmed that Murphy is a respected player in the Premier League, and that he will not receive any harsh treatment from his players this weekend.
"Will they kick lumps out of him? I don't think so. Danny is a good ambassador of the game," Redknapp said.
"I've never come across a manager who said to people go into reckless challenges, break someone's legs or kick lumps out of them. I don't think that goes on.
"With some teams you have to get in their faces because if you let them pass it they'll murder you. But no one wants to see crazy, reckless challenges."
Redknapp believes that repeat offenders are those who need to calm down, to avoid serious injuries occurring so frequently in the future.
"It is the same people who keep getting sent off for making rash challenges that have to calm themselves down a bit," he added.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6446301,00.html
McCarthy hits back at Murphy
Molineux chief blasts 'silly' comments
Last updated: 15th October 2010
Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Mick McCarthy has hit back at Danny Murphy's verbal attack on his management style.
McCarthy was among three Premier League bosses to incur the wrath of the Fulham skipper, after the midfielder candidly accused the Wolves boss, as well Blackburn's Sam Allardyce and Tony Pulis of Stoke, of sending their players out 'too pumped up'.
But the former Republic of Ireland coach feels Murphy has no justification for his condemning comments, after revealing the pair have only ever had a 30 second conversation following Karl Henry's challenge on Bobby Zamora which left the striker with a broken leg last month.
McCarthy has already spoken with Allardyce, the League Managers' Association and PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor over Murphy's statement and the Wanderers tactician hopes referees will not be influenced by the midfielder's perception of his team.
He said ahead of Saturday's clash with West Ham at Molineux: "I've only had one conversation with Danny Murphy and that was after the Fulham game when he said 'don't worry, I'll make sure Zamora knows it was a fair tackle' and I said 'great'.
"If Danny Murphy can decide on, or analyse my team talks or beliefs from that one 30 second conversation, then he is a better man than me.
"I find it incredible coming from someone who has never been in the dressing room with me, has never worked with me. Apart from that 30 seconds, we have never had a conversation.
"For him to pontificate like he has done, is completely wrong.
"It has not made me angry. It was a silly comment without a great deal of knowledge. It has created a huge furore and the media have had great mileage out of it."
Respect
McCarthy added: "It is dammed hard to pick up points. It is made harder by comments like that.
"I hope it doesn't affect referees. I am one of those managers who go into their room before the game and listen to them and treat them with respect. I don't send in my assistant or the physio.
"We will continue to play the same way but hopefully with less yellow cards.
"I don't think Danny has the info, information or experience to say something that would hurt me.
"It has not hurt me, it has made life harder for us but if people push against us, you have to push back."
McCarthy revealed: "I spoke to Sam Allardyce, the LMA, Gordon Taylor, people's opinions I care for.
"It is sad we have to defend ourselves because the three of us have done all right in the game.
"We should not have to defend ourselves against a player who has got no knowledge of us.
"If I started making accusations about players, I might get a call from the PFA and deservedly so."
Discipline
McCarthy does concede that his team have to improve their disciplinary record after collecting two red cards and 20 yellows this season.
He said: "I agree with the sentiment of all managers that none of us send a team out to kick or to injure people. We all abhor tackles that hurt people.
"I was the first one to come out and say Henry's tackle at Wigan was a ridiculous tackle and a red card. I said that straight after the game.
"I never said 'I didn't quite see it' or 'there was sand in my eye' like some do. I came out and said it as it was and I'll always do that
"We are bottom of the disciplinary league with 20 yellows and two reds but if you look at the last four years we've finished 9th, 10th, 3rd and 13th.
"I have never sent teams to do that (be dirty). My teams always try and play football. We can't stop being competitive.
"I would like to improve the discipline record and we are trying to do it."
McCarthy is under no illusions about the importance of tomorrow's game with the Hammers after four successive defeats.
He said: "It is a huge game. There is no hiding from that but we were in a similar position last season and turned it around.
"I don't like the position we are in, I don't like the bashing the club is getting, but if we can maintain our belief after losing four games, we will be fine."
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http://threeandin.com/2010/10/15/pulis-misses-the-point/
Pulis misses the point
Posted by Hogger
On October - 15 - 2010
Today Tony Pulis entered his press conference, unfurled a prepared statement in Benitez-esque fashion, and responded to Danny Murphy's recent comments about his side's overt physicality.
Pulis has a history of releasing statements when his club come under fire. His club are remarkably touchy about criticism. It's almost as if the comments are all too often, like the impact of some of Stoke's tackling, unnervingly close to the bone.
Pulis began his statement by accusing Murphy of discriminating against smaller clubs:
"One challenge on Newcastle's Hatem Ben Arfa by Nigel de Jong of Manchester City recently led to a broken bone.
Another by Joe Cole, one of our most technically gifted players, resulted in a sending off for one of our most celebrated clubs in the country, Liverpool, who are currently managed by Roy Hodgson, someone I have great respect for.
How ironic it is that Danny Murphy chose not to discuss either challenge or manager in respect of those tackles. How selective can someone be?"
Leaving aside Pulis' understanding (or lack thereof) of irony, he's plain wrong on this count. Like the victim of a Ryan Shawcross tackle, he's barely got a leg to stand on. Whilst Cole and De Jong have both made awful challenges, Murphy's point was that some sides are repeatedly and systematically violent. Neither Liverpool nor City fall in to that bracket.
Pulis moved on to question Murphy's motives:
"Maybe Murphy's pursuit of a new career in the media does not allow him to criticise, or fall out with the Premier League big boys. Instead, in my opinion, he has selected easy targets that are based on his own perception and not facts."
Ah, perception. The enemy of football.
The hilarity of accusing Murphy of seeking media-attention, whilst at the same time protecting a kabal of managers led by Sam "I could manage Real Madrid" Allardyce, needs little comment. You could even call it 'ironic'. But that would only confuse Pulis.
http://www.allactionnoplot.com/2010/10/fulham-spurs-preview-bigger-than-inter-at-the-san-siro-944/ (http://www.allactionnoplot.com/2010/10/fulham-spurs-preview-bigger-than-inter-at-the-san-siro-944/)
Fulham - Spurs Preview: Bigger Than Inter at the San Siro
Don't quite remember what life was like before this interminably long international break, but I think the gist of it is that we gather every centre-back on our books and lock them in the treatment room, while the rest of our heroes daydream about the Champions League and wait for Bale and VDV to do their thing.
I read earlier this week that we are yet to win two consecutive league games this season, which sums up our slightly hotch-potch start to the campaign in rather damning fashion. No doubt our Champions League distractions have been largely responsible for this, and with a trip to the San Siro on the horizon I fear the worst at Craven Cottage tomorrow. 'Arry has rather nobly been suggesting in the build-up to this one that the game against Fulham is bigger than Inter Milan away. While the myriad ways in which that is wrong could probably be turned into a short book, I certainly see his point, for one way or another our heroes need to be reminded that if we continue to fritter away Premiership points we will fall well short of the top four come May. Such tough-but-winnable games as Fulham away are the stuff of which a top-four finish is built.
Team News
Bassong is likely to be partnered by either Corluka or Hudd, and Defoe I think remains out, but the rest are all in working order.
'Arry again has to choose between 4-4-2 with VDV giving the world's worst impression of a right-winger, or 4-5-1 with the magnificent Dutchman in more natural habitat.
As for the other lot, my fantasy league research tells me that Bobby Zamora is still injured, while jaws at AANP Towers are still begin scraped from the floor in disbelief at the news from back in the summer that ex-lilywhite Simon Davies is now old enough to retire from international football. Cripes. A draw at Craven Cottage is no bad result, but this one is winnable.
http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/spurs-preview-passers-passing.html (http://fulham.theoffside.com/team-news/spurs-preview-passers-passing.html)
Spurs Preview; Passers Passing
By: timmyg | October 15th, 2010
No Dickson Etuhu or Damien Duff, but Moussa Dembélé is allegedly back to fitness.
Damien Duff and Dickson Etuhu will miss the game. Duff is being rested in an attempt to overcome a niggling calf injury while Etuhu will be out for between two to three weeks with an ankle problem. Mousa Dembele is available after recovering from his ankle injury but Andy Johnson (knee) is still one week away from a first team return.
Yet according to PhysioRoom.com, Stephen Kelly is "very doubtful" with a Calf Muscle Strain. Oh, and AJ may make an appearance on the bench.
No matter what, expect to see Chris Baird start the game — be it at right back or center mid. Clint Dempsey will probably replace Duff on the right. Dembélé could very well start the match, but I have a lingering feeling we'll see Gera up front behind EJ.
On the flip side, here's an interesting story about Peter Crouch over at ZonalMarking. I don't have a total tally, but if memory serves me right he's scored quite a few goals against us. Hopefully 'Arry rests him for the trip to Inter on Wednesday.
On a side note, I took some data from The Telegraph and tabulated how well our players are passing. The problem right away is that we don't know what type of passes these are (i.e. backwards or forwards), considering our open-passing nature (compared to the directness of a Stoke or Blackburn). But it does offer some insight to our side: Danny Murphy is still the puppet master, Dembélé and Gera are not only the same player but evidently the same passer, and Schwarzer offers better service than Stockdale.
(http://fulham.theoffside.com/files/2010/10/pass.jpg)
Most notable though is our worrying lack of passing acumen at right back. Between the two, Kelly and Pantsil are averaging just a 70% completion rate. If this continues until January, I'd imagine we'll see Hughes go fishing in the transfer market.
http://www.just-football.com/2010/10/blackburn-dirty-danny-murphy-allardyce-hughes/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Just-football+%28Just-Football%29
Blackburn, dirt and Danny Murphy – Time to apologise to Allardyce?
15 Oct, 2010 Jonathan F England, Europe, Latest, Premier League
Maybe it was the company. Danny Murphy was speaking at the Leaders in Football conference, a collection of some of the game's most prominent and influential figures both on and off the pitch, when he decided to aim a stinging volley at Stoke City, Blackburn and Wolves. Perhaps his chest swelled with authority as he sat, suited and booted in the corridors of power, and spoke out.
Maybe it was a prelude to a career in management. Murphy is supposedly a student of the game and is busy collecting coaching badges. Perhaps this was an early dip of the toe into the waters of kidology.
Either way it caused controversy.
"The pace some of the players are going into tackles at is ridiculous," began Murphy. "There are no brains in the players doing that. I don't believe they are going out to break the legs of their opponents but there's no logic or intelligence in what they are doing.
'Yeah this feels good!' Murphy must have thought to himself. I'll go on. "Players need to be more intelligent, especially the ones who are doing it repeatedly. They are culpable in that."
"You get managers sending teams out to stop other sides from playing, which is happening more and more," he said. "Stoke, Blackburn and Wolves — you can say they're doing what they can to win the game — but the fact is that the managers are sending the players out so pumped up that inevitably there are going to be problems.
'This is great, I feel like king of the world!' Have some more:
"The thing I think people miss is that it's the managers who dictate what the players do and how they behave. If you have a manager in control of his team, who doesn't allow these things to go on you have a more disciplined team.
"Fulham under Roy Hodgson were top of the Fair Play League because he wouldn't accept talking back to the referee or stupid tackles. You can look at the players and blame them. But every team has a captain and a manager who is in charge."
Murphy's opinions certainly provoked. In a town where media banality is sheriff, the 33-year-old played villain in publicly criticising specific teams and managers.
But does he owe one of them an apology?
The problem with spraying out accusations is that, like 40-yard passes, if they are not accurate they are of no use. And in the case of Blackburn and Sam Allardyce, Murphy's mud fails to stick.
Allardyce was furious with the comments made by Murphy. "People like Danny Murphy are giving a perception that's not true and I hate perception. There is far too much of it in the game, we should stick to reality.
"I was very, very angry indeed when I saw it. The players are very angry – was it brainless or mindless he said? An outrageous statement to make. They are very angry about that."
Blackburn consequently issued a detailed press release charting the club's recent disciplinary record – one that proves that, under Allardyce, Murphy's accusations against Blackburn were not warranted.
Without regurgitating the whole press release here are some key points.
In 2009/2010, Allardyce's first full season in charge at Ewood Park, Blackburn's finished 8th in the Fairplay League with only two red cards issued all season. Blackburn's disciplinary record was better than the likes of Chelsea and Murphy's former club Liverpool – both of whom finished below Rovers with 5 red cards each. During that season Blackburn also did not have a single player suspended for five bookings.
This record has carried on into Allardyce's second season. Blackburn are currently 4th in the Fairplay League after 7 games of 2010/2011, sitting above Murphy's own club Fulham with 11 bookings from 7 games and no red cards.
Indeed, this calendar year Blackburn have only had one player sent off in the league – Christopher Samba against Stoke back in February.
All this demonstrates just how perception can often unfairly blind fact, and gives Blackburn supporters and Sam Allardyce reason to feel rightly aggrieved by Murphy's comments.
The perception of Blackburn as a dirty side has its roots in the seasons between 2004/5 and 2007/8, when they finished bottom of the Fairplay League every single season for four consecutive years. But, and here's where it all takes a deliciously juicy twist, who was Blackburn manager during all four of those seasons?
Mark Hughes. Murphy's current boss at Fulham.
Further irony was added to this already well-iced cake when Hughes then came out and defended Murphy's comments. "We're disappointed by the reaction to it. You must respect he has an opinion. He was being honest."
In this instance, the facts fail to back up Murphy's so-called honesty. He may have considered it honest given public perception of Blackburn as an overly physical side, but in actuality Murphy only really provided another example of this horrible trend of typecasting-above-analysing which many in British football too often fall foul of.
Bashing Sam Allardyce seems to be quite a popular pastime for many football pundits and commentators at the moment, but in this case it is far from warranted. Blackburn may not play with Barcelona-esque finesse, but if we're looking to identify dirty teams, plenty are guiltier than Big Sam's. Including a few quite close to home for our Danny.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/oct/15/squad-sheets-fulham-tottenham-hotspur
Squad sheets: Fulham v Tottenham Hotspur
guardian.co.uk, Friday 15 October 2010 18.42 BST
Fulham are still unbeaten in the league, albeit with one win and six draws, while Wednesday's Champions League trip to Milan to face Internazionale will not be far from Tottenham's thoughts. So if there is to be winner it is more likely to be Mark Hughes's team, although another draw looks the safer bet. The visitors will look to Rafael van der Vaart carrying on where he left off against Aston Villa a fortnight ago and Harry Redknapp must be relieved that his injury-stricken defence will be spared the attentions of Bobby Zamora, recovering from a broken leg. David Lacey
Venue Craven Cottage, Saturday 3pm
Tickets Sold out
Last season Fulham 0 Tottenham 0
Referee M Dean
This season's matches 6 Y18, R0, 3.00 cards per game
Odds Fulham 19-10 Tottenham 8-5 Draw 12-5
(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Sport/Pix/pictures/2010/10/15/1287163647227/Fulham-v-Tottenham-001.jpg)
Probable starters in bold, contenders in light. Photograph: Graphic Fulham
Subs from Etheridge, Kamara, Riise, Dalla Valle, E Johnson, Stoor, Greening, Halliche, Dikgacoi, Elm, Briggs
Doubtful Stoor (groin)
Injured Duff (calf, 23 Oct), Etuhu (ankle, 23 Oct), A Johnson (knee, 23 Oct), Kelly (calf, 23 Oct), Stockdale (ankle, 30 Oct), Senderos (achilles, Feb), Zamora (broken leg, Feb)
Suspended None
Form guide DDDWDD
Disciplinary record Y12 R0
Leading scorers Dembélé, Dempsey 2
Tottenham
Subs from Cudicini, Pletikosa, Corluka, Gallas, Palacios, Kranjcar, Giovani, Bentley, Kaboul, Pavlyuchenko, Keane
Doubtful Assou-Ekotto (knee), Bentley (match fiteness), Gallas (groin), Kaboul (hamstring), King (groin/knee)
Injured Dawson (knee, 30 Oct), Defoe (ankle, Nov), O'Hara (back, Nov), Woodgate (groin, unknown)
Suspended None
Form guide WLWDLW
Disciplinary record Y9 R0
Leading scorer Van der Vaart 3
Match pointers
• Mark Hughes has drawn 14 of his last 18 matches as a Premier League manager
• Tottenham have scored 99 away goals in Premier League London derbies
• Fulham have the best crossing accuracy (27%) in the Premier League this season
• Tottenham have not won at Fulham in the top flight since March 2002
• Fulham have made more defensive clearances (328) than any other side in 2010-11
• If selected, Jermaine Jenas will be making his 250th Premier League appearance
Murphy claims are insulting - Olly
Published 17:23 15/10/10
By MirrorFootball
Ian Holloway has blasted Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy for his recent comments about Blackburn, Stoke and Wolves - but the Blackpool manager admits there is a problem with two-footed tackling.
Following a spate of serious injuries to Premier League players this season, Murphy accused the managers of the three clubs - Sam Allardyce, Tony Pulis and Mick McCarthy - of sending out players so pumped up that "there is inevitably going to be problems".
Holloway said: "He'll have to face the music because I think he's totally wrong. Does he know what it's like to be a manager?
"I've never heard any manager who I've played for tell me to go out and tackle someone and hurt them and break his leg. I think it's a total insult to Tony Pulis, Sam Allardyce and Mick McCarthy."
Bobby Zamora, Antonio Valencia and Hatem Ben Arfa have all suffered broken legs in recent weeks, while in the last round of matches Wolves captain Karl Henry was sent off for a flying lunge at Wigan's Jordi Gomez, who fortunately avoided injury.
Holloway agrees there is a problem with players tackling off their feet but believes the issue has been exaggerated and that the physical side of the game is unfairly penalised.
He continued: "There's a decision to be made and tackles these days, a lot of them are two-footed, and that's down to the player.
"We used to tackle properly. It's a fantastic part of the game and a fantastic skill but all these two-footed lunges which are reckless, yes we want them out of the game.
"But to interpret some of them as that, I'm not so sure. I don't think (Nigel) De Jong's tackle (on Ben Arfa) was that reckless, I just think it was an accidental thing.
"I think the one on Aaron Ramsey the other year (by Stoke's Ryan Shawcross), I thought two players went in for it, and that happens sometimes. These players are so quick it's frightening.
"The game is improving all the time but don't take tackling away from the game, I don't like the game if there's no tackling in it.
"Reckless tackles are (when a player thinks), 'I don't care, I'm taking everything'. And I don't see that many in the game.
"I would argue with Danny. It's so easy to say, 'Oh yes, it's happening now'. I don't think so. I don't think you can touch people anymore.
"Danny's a very good player but I think it disrespects the clubs he talks about by saying they do certain things and they're told to do certain things."
Holloway's Blackpool will aim to continue their stunning start to their first Premier League season when they take on Manchester City at Bloomfield Road on Sunday.
Three away victories, most recently against Liverpool, have propelled the Seasiders up to ninth in the table, but their attempt to secure a first home win will have to be made with Holloway sitting in the stands.
The 47-year-old will serve a one-match ban for his post-match comments to referee Mike Dean after Blackpool's defeat by Blackburn last month.
Holloway admitted his guilt after falling foul of the rule for the second time in nine months, but he does not feel it should have too much of an impact on his team's chances.
He said: "I'll have to shout a bit louder. I'll have a nicer view and I'll probably feel like I'm not in work, and that's my own fault.
"I know the rules. I certainly know the rule E3 now, which I've broken twice, and I can't afford to break it again. I'm just going to have to sit on everything I feel and say nothing, and I should be able to do that now I'm 47. But I probably haven't learned.
"When I don't get what I want I'm not very nice. Being a little fella, some people call it small man syndrome, I'm a jack russell and I think I'm a rottweiler.
"I'm a little bloke with a lot to say and sometimes it's not nice and sometimes I forget who I'm saying it to.
"I'm going to have to change that and it's not easy when you feel totally and utterly that you don't understand what's happening in front of your eyes."
Holloway has no fresh injury worries, with Matt Gilks, Craig Cathcart and Neal Eardley all having recovered from problems that kept them out of international matches this week.
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Blackpool-manager-Holloway-has-blasted-Danny-Murphy-for-his-insulting-recent-comments-about-Blackburn-Stoke-and-Wolves-article601491.html#ixzz12SJhthD0 (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Blackpool-manager-Holloway-has-blasted-Danny-Murphy-for-his-insulting-recent-comments-about-Blackburn-Stoke-and-Wolves-article601491.html#ixzz12SJhthD0)
Home Advantage
Friday 15th October 2010
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/Hughes/General3.jpg)
With three of Fulham's next four matches taking place at Craven Cottage, Mark Hughes is hoping a string of good results at home will push the Whites further up the table - starting with Saturday's game against Harry Redknapp's Tottenham.
"We're up against a very accomplished side with a huge array of talent and in fairness, yes they've got a few injuries, irrespective of that Harry has got a lot of talent at his disposal so it's a big test for us," said Hughes on Friday afternoon.
"We have got a big following, full house at the weekend it will be a great atmosphere, as there always is, and we're all looking forward to it. It's always nice to get back against top-notch opposition after the international break; it's the perfect game for us in terms of really focusing the mind.
"We've just come through a period of where we've played a number of away games. We are just going into the next phase of how we manage our own season and the next phase is more akin to home games rather than away games – so we're looking to have a good start against Tottenham because that sets us up for the games we have ahead of us.
"We've been pleased we picked up the points away from home, so if we can go up against an accomplished side like Tottenham and get maximum points we're in good shape as we're one of very few teams unbeaten at the moment.
"From our point of view, being unbeaten raises our confidence. We're playing good stuff, we've been acknowledged for the quality of play that we're producing so it's more of the same to be perfectly honest. We know that if we keep playing in the same manner and with the same intensity to our play, we'll win more than we lose."
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Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/HughesHomeAdvantage.aspx#ixzz12SKMd8TM (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/October/HughesHomeAdvantage.aspx#ixzz12SKMd8TM)
