Cardiff spark £2m Jay Boothroyd scramble by sealing Everton striker James Vaughan for £1m
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 12:01 AM on 30th December 2010
Comments (0) Add to My Stories Cardiff City are on the verge of snapping up Everton striker James Vaughan in a £1million deal - forcing a host of Premier League suitors to battle it out for Jay Boothroyd.
The England international is rated at around £2million, with Fulham among a hosted of interested clubs in the running to sign him, with Cardiff ready to cash in on rather than let the striker leave for nothing when his contract expires at the end of the season.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2010/12/29/article-0-0BC449E7000005DC-6_468x339.jpg)
Wanted: Bothroyd (left)
Bothroyd, 28, who has also been linked with former club Arsenal and Birmingham, has missed Cardiff's last three games with a hamstring injury.
Vaughan, meanwhile, is close to agreeing terms on a two-and-a-half year contract with the Championship high-flyers and could make his Bluebirds debut against Leeds United next Tuesday.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342613/Fulham-boss-Mark-Hughes-eyes-2m-Cardiff-striker-Jay-Bothroyd.html#ixzz19a1L4qbt (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342613/Fulham-boss-Mark-Hughes-eyes-2m-Cardiff-striker-Jay-Bothroyd.html#ixzz19a1L4qbt)
Blasting Fulham up the table is Baird's new goal
By Graham Luney
Thursday, 30 December 2010
Northern Ireland international Chris Baird hasn't been able to remove the smile from his face after smashing in his first goals for Fulham.
The defender bagged a stunning brace at the Britannia Stadium to bury Stoke City 2-0 on Tuesday and ease the pressure on under-fire Cottagers boss Mark Hughes.
The Rasharkin man — perhaps inspired by international and club team-mate Aaron Hughes' rare goal against West Ham on Sunday — conjured up two moments of individual brilliance to bring Fulham some much needed end of year cheer.
"I'm delighted, my first goals for Fulham. The first one, I couldn't have hit any better," Baird said.
"The second one, I knew I was going to take right from the start as soon as we got the free kick, thankfully it went in for me.
"I was going to smash it as hard as I could and hope for the best and I'm just delighted to get two goals."
The pressure was mounting on Fulham as a 3-1 defeat at home to relegation rivals West Ham saw them slide into the bottom three. Hughes' defence came in for fierce criticism so Baird thought the appropriate response was to dust down his shooting boots.
"It's been a tough time for us of late, we've not kept many clean sheets in the past few games but we're delighted, especially coming here to Stoke where you're always going to be under a lot of pressure, they're a good team," he added.
"I thought we dealt with it unbelievably well and we're just glad to get a clean sheet and three points. When you drop into the bottom three it's not nice but thankfully we got the three points. Hopefully it will lift us out of the bottom three and we can get a good run together and stay out of there."
Fulham now occupy 16th place in the Premier League and the 28-year-old added: "There's plenty more points to play for and I'm sure that we can climb up the table and be safe."
Read more: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/local/blasting-fulham-up-the-table-is-bairdrsquos-new-goal-15041999.html#ixzz19a2HGIKz (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/local/blasting-fulham-up-the-table-is-bairdrsquos-new-goal-15041999.html#ixzz19a2HGIKz)
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/baird-goes-from-firing-blanks-to-contender-for-goal-of-the-season-2171603.html
Baird goes from firing blanks to contender for 'goal of the season'
By Phil Medlicott
Thursday, 30 December 2010
Mark Hughes, the Fulham manager, rated the first of Chris Baird's double strike against Stoke City on Tuesday as a contender for goal of the season – and was surprised to learn how long it had been since the Northern Ireland international had last hit the back of the net.
Baird was the unlikely hero in Fulham's 2-0 Premier League win at the Britannia Stadium, netting twice from outside the area in the opening 10 minutes. In the fourth minute he unleashed a bullet of a shot the Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic could not prevent from crashing in off the post. The 28-year-old swiftly followed it up by beating Begovic with a low drive, having been teed up by a free-kick.
Baird, who had been brought into the Fulham side by Hughes for the game in place of Carlos Salcido, had not scored for the London club before and his last goal had come for Southampton against Cardiff City in a Championship fixture in March 2007.
When told it had been almost four years since Baird's previous goal, Hughes said: "Is it? Well, that surprises me, because arguably he is one of the best strikers of the ball that we have at the club, so he has that capacity to produce what he did.
"With the first one, as soon as it sat up – I have seen him do that in training and it is a fantastic strike, arguably goal of the season, I would suggest.
"The second one from the free-kick, as soon as it left his foot it was goal-bound. I'm pleased for him. He has had to be patient and wait his time, but fully deserved his selection and justified it," the manager added.
Hughes' opposite number, Tony Pulis, felt Begovic might have done more to keep Baird at bay.
"I think Asmir will look at the goals and think he could have done better with both of them," Pulis said. "I think Asmir is going to be a top goalkeeper and he can make saves like that.
"If I didn't think he could, I wouldn't be saying it, but I think he is going to be that good. He will be disappointed with both of them."
Pulis was left perplexed as his players failed to build upon their 2-0 win at Blackburn on Boxing Day.
"We have given Fulham a two-goal lead in the first few minutes and it is very, very difficult then to chase the game," he said.
"We did really well at Blackburn and they have been really bubbly the last couple of days. We had really prepared them, but like all human beings, they let you down sometimes – or let themselves down.
"After the first 20 minutes I thought we got more into the game, but we needed a goal. If we had got one, it might have been a different game."
Pulis has revealed that talks are progressing well with Real Zaragoza over Jermaine Pennant's future and that Stoke are close to securing a permanent deal for the winger, whose loan spell with the Staffordshire club is now complete.
"As we move closer to the deadline, Real Zaragoza have become more receptive to doing a deal," Pulis said. "They have come to accept that, while we are very keen to keep Jermaine, we are not prepared to break the bank in order make it happen.
"It would be fantastic if we could reach an agreement to keep him here because he has made a big impact and he loves it here."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/fulham/8230477/Fulham-manager-Mark-Hughes-to-continue-quest-to-buy-striker-after-pressure-on-position-at-Craven-Cottage-eases.html
Fulham manager Mark Hughes to continue quest to buy striker after pressure on position at Craven Cottage eases
Mark Hughes will push ahead with plans to buy a striker in the January transfer window after the surprise 2-0 victory away to Stoke City which has secured him more time to continue as Fulham manager.
(http://i.telegraph.co.uk/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01794/hughes_1794165c.jpg)
Feeling the heat: Mark Hughes was understood to be close to the sack before Fulham suprisingly beat Stoke 2-0 Photo: GETTY IMAGES
By Jason Burt 8:10PM GMT 29 Dec 2010
There was a genuine fear that had Fulham lost at the Britannia Stadium, following the defeat at home to West Ham United on Boxing Day, then Hughes may have been sacked immediately, little more than four months after joining the club.
The availability of Martin Jol, who had been Fulham's first choice to succeed Roy Hodgson in the summer, and who has since left Ajax, had raised the pressure on Hughes, whose side had dropped into the relegation places.
Although there is no real appetite in the Fulham board to remove Hughes there is also a hard-headed understanding that the club must not be relegated from the Premier League.
The club understand that Hughes had little time in the summer to bring in new players, having been appointed so close to the window closing, and there was only a net spend of around £1.5m with the arrival of Mousa Dembele and Carlos Salcido being offset by the sale of Paul Konchesky to Liverpool.
The serious injury to Bobby Zamora has exposed the dearth of attacking options for a squad in which a number of senior players are in the final years of their contracts and are ageing.
Hughes is desperate to acquire a striker, either on loan or permanently, when the window opens although he is unlikely to be able to bid for Roque Santa Cruz, who he brought to Manchester City.
The win at Stoke was highly unexpected, as it was Fulham's first away from home for 16 months, and although the club are not expecting any points from Saturday's away match at Tottenham, Hughes knows he needs to win at Craven Cottage against West Bromwich Albion next week if he is to maintain the board's faith in him.
http://worldfootballcolumns.com/2010/12/29/interesting-socceroos-squad-announced/
Interesting Socceroos Squad Announced
Posted by Tom Pollock on December 29, 2010
(http://wfcolumns.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/socceroos.jpg?w=640&h=392&crop=1)
Holger Osieck's final 23 man squad for the 2011 Asian Cup next month was recently announced and while there were a few surprises, the general feeling in Australia is there is enough quality for the Socceroos to go all the way. Captain Lucas Neill, Harry Kewell, Tim Cahill and Mark Schwarzer found their way into the squad as was expected, as did Brett Emerton, Luke Wilkshire and Brett Holman who both featured at the World Cup and AFC Asian Player of the Year Sasa Ognenovski will also make the trip to Qatar.
The were three rather surprising selections: Nathan Coe, Neill Kilkenny and Robbie Kruse.
Coe is a goalkeeper, currently playing in Denmark for Sonderjysk Elitesport, and is uncapped at international level. Previously, he had been on the books at Inter Milan and PSV Eindhoven, although he failed to make a senior appearance for either club. A move to FC Copenhagen in 2007 ignited his career and, apart from a brief loan move to Swedish club Orgryte IS, he has remained in Denmark ever since, playing for Copenhagen, Randers and now, Sonderjysk. He will be third choice keeper behind Schwarzer and Liverpool's Brad Jones.
Kilkenny plays for a revitalised Leeds side, in The Championship. He has made over 100 appearances for the club but he has only ever managed two caps for Australia. His debut against Liechtenstein, in a warm up game for the 2006 World Cup, had many believing it was the start of a promising international career. However, it would be another two years before Kilkenny was given another chance to play in the green and gold. The second opportunity came in a World Cup qualifier, this time against China, though his failure to cement his spot in the side saw him miss out on the trip to South Africa.
Melbourne Victory's Robbie Kruse is perhaps the most intriguing selection of all. The striker has been in hot form this A-League season, scoring 10 goals in 15 games. His performances obviously caught the eye of Osieck, who rewarded the prodigy with his first Socceroos call-up. Kruse has represented Australia at the U/17 World Cup and he has also featured in 5 games for the U/20s. Formerly a winger with Brisbane Roar, the youngster has been a revelation this season for Victory, following Ernie Merrick's decision to use him more in central attack
Kruse has carved out a place in the Victory's plans and now hopes to do the same with the Socceroos.
Four A-League players have made the cut, including Kruse, Gold Coast captain Jason Culina, Roar captain Matt McKay and Wellington defender Jade North. Their call ups will provide their managers with selection headaches, during the Cup, as they will be unavailable for the majority of January, one of the busiest months on the A-League calendar. All four clubs are title contenders, so while their inclusions are great news personally, their teams will have to cover for them as best they can.
The most significant absentees from the squad are Adam Federici, Vince Grella and Mark Bresciano, who chose not to go to Doha and instead focus on their club football. Other notable omissions are youngsters Nikita Rukavytsa and Tommy Oar. As well, Turkey has won the battle for Ersan Gulum's services. The youngster, who plays for Besiktas, pledged his future to the Turks despite being born in Australia.
The 2011 Asian Cup is a tournament Australia will be hoping they can win and they enter competition as one of the favourites. They play a friendly against the United Arab Emirates on January 5th, five days before their first match against India on the 10th. Asian Cup action kicks-off on the 7th of January, when hosts Qatar meet Uzbekistan.
http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/liverpool-set-for-2-million-london-raid
Liverpool set for £2 million London raid
Liverpool - Wilfried Zaha could be the next youngster on Roy Hidgson's radar
By David Brenchley December 29, 2010
(http://www.givemefootball.com/GMF/files/2c/2c14e496-00df-425d-aee1-f8e084b1093b.jpg)
Zaha has a big future in the game. (©PAphotos)Picture GalleryNew
The club also chase Southampton's next big star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Liverpool are battling Fulham for the signature of 18-year-old wonderkid Wilfried Zaha from Crystal Palace, according to the Mirror.
Ivory Coast-born Zaha has played 19 times for Palace this season, after coming through their famed academy, and is now valued at £2 million.
The Selhurst Park club would love to hold out for more but their financial situation will see Zaha go for a knockdown price, similar to Victor Moses' move to Wigan.
Having already snared two 16-year-olds this month, Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson plans on bringing more young talent to Anfield, meaning going head to head with his former club Fulham.
New Liverpool owners NESV have urged Hodgson to start bringing younger players to Anfield and build for the future, as well as reviving the club's fortunes in the short term.
And Zaha would be a big signing for the future as the club also chase Southampton's next big star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who has attracted interest from the likes of Arsenal also.
Traditionally a club like Fulham would have been a better move for Zaha is he wanted a fast track into the first team but, under Hodgson, Liverpool have started to blood some of their academy graduates.
The likes of home-grown Martin Kelly, Jay Spearing and Nathan Eccleston as well as players they have signed like Jonjo Shelvey and Danny Wilson have all been given their chance to stake a claim for the first team this season.
Spurs Ticket Update
Wednesday 29th December 2010
Supporters wishing to attend Saturday's London derby against Spurs at White Hart Lane must purchase their tickets by phone 0843 208 1234 (option 3) or in person from the Ticket Office at Craven Cottage.
Tickets are no longer available to purchase online due to postal delivery times. Tickets for Fulham's New Year's Day fixture will be available to buy until 3.30pm on Friday afternoon or from 10am-12am on Saturday morning from the Ticket Office.
Tickets purcashed by phone must be collected in person from the Ticket Office. For further information please visit our ticketing page|.
.
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/SpursTicketUpdate.aspx#ixzz19a5zQWpE (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/SpursTicketUpdate.aspx#ixzz19a5zQWpE)
'Inside Fulham' - FFC Podcast
Chris Baird on winning at Stoke 29th Dec 2010
Wed, 29 Dec 10
Duration:
9 mins
Reflections on the downs and ups of the Christmas fixtures so far, with Fulham responding to the disappointment of a home defeat against West Ham by winning away at Stoke. We hear from manager Mark Hughes and the unlikely two goal hero at the Britannia Stadium, Chris Baird.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc (http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/iffc)
Fulham v West Brom tickets
Barclays Premier League
Tuesday 4 January
Kick-Off 20:00
On-sale dates
Season Ticket Holders On sale (unlim tickets)
Fulham Club Members On sale (unlim tickets)
Supporters with Purchase History On sale (unlim tickets)
General Sale On sale (4 tickets)
Loyalty points: 6 (more info)|
Buy tickets|
Bring two mates for £5 each
Season ticket holders can purchase up to two extra tickets for only £5 each.
This offer is available in the Putney End only. This offer is not available online. To book, please call 0843 208 1234 (option 1) or buy from the Ticket Office. †
Special discounts for Members - UPDATED
Members can now get this match for just £10 Adult/Concession or £5 Juniors!
This offer is only available in the Putney End of the stadium, maximum of two tickets per Member and can only be claimed by calling 0843 208 1234 (Option 3) or from the Ticket Office in person.
Join Fulham Members' Club now| to take advantage of this discount and other exclusive offers throughout the season. †
Family Package
Purchase your own Family Package for this fixture. A Family Package includes two adult tickets and two junior tickets and costs just £60 (normally worth £80).
To book a Family Package please call 0843 208 1234 (select option 3) and quote 'FAMILY PACK'. Additional junior tickets can be purchased for just £10 for the fixture.
Please note these Family Packs can only be bought in certain areas of the stadium and are subject to availability. These areas are: Johnny Haynes Stand (Blocks A, AL) and the Putney (neutral area only) & Hammersmith Stands. †
Group Tickets
Fans can also watch this fixture for as little as £24 when buying group tickets. So, why not get some friends, family or colleagues together for the game and introduce a few new fans to Fulham?
A 20% discount will be offered on bookings of 10 or more tickets. These discounts apply to full view adult tickets in the Putney End only and are subject to availability.
These tickets can only be bought over the phone and you must quote 'GROUP DISCOUNTS' when booking. Call 0843 208 1234 (option 3) (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) to book now or make a booking request online|. †
My First Matchday Package
My First Matchday offers Junior supporters and an accompanying adult the opportunity to see what really goes on behind the scenes at Craven Cottage in the build-up to matchday. Pretend you're a radio commentator in the press box, run down the tunnel, pretend you're directing the players from the Manager's seat in the dugout, interview a guardian in front of the TV interview boards, see our trophy cabinet and even meet a Fulham FC legend! More info and prices| †
How to Buy Tickets
buy tickets online - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day. Save on booking fees by booking online*
by phone on 0843 208 1234 (option 1) - 7 days a week, 24 hrs a day
in person from the Ticket Office: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; non-match day Sat 10am-12pm
by fax 020 7384 4810 (download printable form )
by postal application to FFC Ticket Office, Stevenage Road, Fulham, SW6 6HH enclosing a stamped addressed envelope (download printable form )
Seatwave - the official fan-to-fan ticket exchange * Lower booking fees compared to telephone booking
† Special offers and packages only available on advance bookings and not on the day of the match. Offers expire 7 days prior to the fixture.
Ticket Office Christmas Opening Times
Friday 24th December 9am to 4pm
Saturday 25th December CLOSED
Sunday 26th December MATCHDAY 9am open
Monday 27th December CLOSED
Tuesday 28th December CLOSED
Friday 31st December 9am to 4pm
Saturday 1st January 10am – midday
Sunday 2nd January CLOSED
Monday 3rd January CLOSED
Prices
Category C prices apply to this match.
NB: Blocks A and AL are a designated Family Area and are not available to book online. To book, call the Ticket Office on 0843 208 1234 opt 3 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).
Stand (Grade C) Block Adult Conc Junior
Riverside S, Z £35 £20 £5
J Haynes D, DL, G, GL £35 £22 £10
Hammersmith / Putney All Blocks £30 £20 £10
J Haynes B, BL, C, CL J, JL, H, HL £30 £20 £5
J Haynes A, K, AL, KL £25 £15 £5
Junior - under 16
Consessions: Young Person - under 21
Concessions: Senior - over 65
Disabled Supporters: 50% discount - conditions apply
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/WestBromHome.aspx#ixzz19a6ibP9Q (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Tickets/Games/WestBromHome.aspx#ixzz19a6ibP9Q)
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/4108/3/fulham-forced-look-elsewhere-new-striker-after-cisse-snub
Fulham forced to look elsewhere for new striker after Cisse snub
By talkSPORT
Wednesday, December 29
(http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_news_article_header_image/Papiss%20Demba%20Cisse.jpg)
Fulham target Papiss Demba Cisse has ruled out a move to the Premier League in January.
Mark Hughes has publicly stated his need for a striker, with Bobby Zamora injured and his side involved in a relegation battle, and the free-scoring Freiburg forward fitted the bill.
The striker, who had a host of other clubs across Europe interested in him, has however pledged his future to the German side.
"
My intention is not to leave in January and to see what happens at the end of the season"
"There are many rumours but that is all they are - they are not contract offers," the 25-year-old said.
"Any footballer wants to play at a great club but I have a contract with the Freiburg until 2014 and I am happy here. My intention is not to leave in January and to see what happens at the end of the season."
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/12/29/andy-johnson-as-zamora-mcbride/
Andy Johnson as Zamora-McBride
Filed under: Analysis — timmyg @ 4:50 pm
So I completely missed yesterday's match as I was flying across the country after spending Christmas in rainy Seattle. But considering the result, I'll try it more often.
Excluding our only league away win last season, Fulham haven't kept a clean sheet on the road, and won, since May 16 2009 when we beat Newcastle 1-0. The last time Fulham won 2-0 on the road was that august April 12 2008 date when we slayed Reading.
Because I missed the match, I could be overstating Andy Johnson's importance. But look at the chalkboard of yesterday's passing compared to the previous three matches. (N.B. AJ only played 45 minutes in the Sunderland and 15 or so minutes in the Arsenal game).
(http://cravencottagenewsround.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/aj-passing.jpg?w=658&h=561)
What we clearly see is AJ in a Zamora or McBride-esque role: always involved, always in a different position. He may not have made that killer pass into the box, but that isn't his strength. By roaming, something that he is more suited for, he allows other players to get into threatening positions and attack the back four.
It also means that he can be of use on the forecheck. Yesterday AJ had 11 tackles. On Boxing Day, he had 4. That's what, one tackle for every six-inches of height?
Speaking of Boxing Day, in the West Ham match AJ was confined to the right side of the field, with a majority of his passes going backwards to either John Pantsil or Simon Davies. In fact, 17 of his 24 passes in that game were made in the first half. I can't recall if that was because something West Ham did or Hughes' tactics (considering I watched it at it 4am through half-open eyes), but he was marginalized and we suffered.
Against Sunderland he was in different positions, but not involved enough considering the small sample size. Judging by the Arsenal chart, an even smaller sample size, it's difficult to figure what he offered at all.
For all the focus on AJ being the natural goal scorer on the squad, maybe it's about time we realize he should/can do other things?
http://www.thenational.ae/sport/football/high-number-of-draws-is-costing-fulham-dear
High number of draws is costing Fulham dear
Graham Caygill
Last Updated: Dec 30, 2010
Mark Hughes was a man under fire on Sunday as Fulham supporters booed him following his side's 3-1 defeat to West Ham United at Craven Cottage.
The loss put the London side in the relegation zone and led to speculation over Hughes's future, despite him having only taken over the job in the summer.
The 2-0 win at Stoke on Tuesday alleviated some of that pressure, but going into 2011 there is no doubt that they are embroiled in a fight to beat the drop and are enduring their worst season for three years.
So what has gone wrong? Well, not too much, on the face of it. Prior to Sunday, Fulham had lost only five league matches all season - as many defeats as championship-challenging Arsenal.
Their problem has been draws. Too many of them to be precise. They have had 10 in 19 games, and have won only three times.
Four of those drawn games were goalless, but on five other occasions they came from behind to earn parity, so it could be argued that a point was better than none. But in the era of three points for a victory, earning only a point in a lot of games will not be enough.
Fulham have been hurt on the scoring front by the loss of Bobby Zamora to a broken leg, and it is the lack of goals that are holding back the team.
Since Zamora was sidelined Fulham have scored 13 goals in 15 games, averaging 0.86 goals a game.
In that period they have scored two or more goals only once, against Wigan in October.
It is the same story for Fulham's fellow strugglers Birmingham, who have drawn 10 out of 18 games and sit outside the relegation places only on goal difference.
They also have lost only five games, but three wins is not enough to be in the top half of the table.
They are averaging a goal a game and Alex McLeish, the Birmingham manager, is sure to be looking at ways to improve his frontline options in next month's transfer window.
Goal-hero Baird admits Fulham were feeling the relegation heat
Published 23:00 29/12/10
By David Anderson
(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/match-centre/article658697.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/.jpeg)
Chris Baird has challenged his team-mates to guide Fulham to safety after climbing out of the bottom three.
Baird admits the players were feeling the heat before their first away win in 16 months at Stoke lifted them out of the drop zone and eased the pressure on boss Mark Hughes.
The Northern Ireland international, who scored both Fulham goals at the Britannia, claims they must build on this great win ahead of Saturday's testing trip to Tottenham.
"I think we all feel the pressure at some stage and when you drop into the bottom three, it's not nice," said Baird.
"We're just delighted to get the points to lift us out of the bottom three.
"Now we must put a good run together and stay away from there.
"Our next game against Spurs will be tough. They are flying high at the minute but we will take confidence from this game going into that one and see what happens."
Baird was delighted to keep a clean sheet and it was only Fulham's second in their last nine away games.
"It's been a tough time for us of late," he said.
"We've not kept many clean sheets in the past few games. Coming here to Stoke, we always knew we were going to be under a lot of pressure because they are a good team.
"But I thought we dealt with that unbelievably well and we're just glad to get the clean sheet and the three points.
"I'm delighted with my goals, my first for Fulham. The first one, I couldn't have hit it any better. The second one, I knew I was going to take it as soon as we got the free-kick and I was always going to smash it as hard as I could."
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-goal-hero-Chris-Baird-admits-the-Cottagers-were-feeling-the-relegation-heat-before-their-2-0-win-at-Stoke-article659879.html#ixzz19a9aicin (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Fulham-goal-hero-Chris-Baird-admits-the-Cottagers-were-feeling-the-relegation-heat-before-their-2-0-win-at-Stoke-article659879.html#ixzz19a9aicin)
Manchester United striker Federico Macheda sparks Wolves, Bolton and Fulham loan scramble
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 8:45 AM on 30th December 2010
Wolverhampton, Bolton and Fulham are among a clutch of clubs showing interest in Manchester United striker Federico Macheda after his agent revealed he can go out on loan.
However, Marcello Bonetto says the 19-year-old favours a temporary return to Italy with Parma, Lazio, Juventus, Roma and Fiorentina all keen.
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2010/12/30/article-1342671-0C9566D0000005DC-434_468x314.jpg)
Chance to shine: Macheda (right) gets a run-out against Sunderland on Boxing Day
Bonetto said: 'Federico could leave United, that is true, but only on loan. The club and Ferguson have absolute faith in "Chicco".
'With the return of Michael Owen, confirmation of Wayne Rooney, plus fine form for Dimitar Berbatov and Hernandez, the space for him in Manchester has been reduced.
'We talked it over and were given the all-clear by Ferguson to go on loan for six months in January to gain experience.
'If we do decide to leave Manchester, then Italy represent the most likely destination.'
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342671/Wolverhampton-Bolton-Fulham-want-Manchester-Uniteds-Federico-Macheda.html#ixzz19aH2JVQ6 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342671/Wolverhampton-Bolton-Fulham-want-Manchester-Uniteds-Federico-Macheda.html#ixzz19aH2JVQ6)
Quote from: White Noise on December 30, 2010, 08:26:13 AM
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/4108/3/fulham-forced-look-elsewhere-new-striker-after-cisse-snub
Fulham forced to look elsewhere for new striker after Cisse snub
By talkSPORT
Wednesday, December 29
(http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_news_article_header_image/Papiss%20Demba%20Cisse.jpg)
Fulham target Papiss Demba Cisse has ruled out a move to the Premier League in January.
Mark Hughes has publicly stated his need for a striker, with Bobby Zamora injured and his side involved in a relegation battle, and the free-scoring Freiburg forward fitted the bill.
The striker, who had a host of other clubs across Europe interested in him, has however pledged his future to the German side.
"
My intention is not to leave in January and to see what happens at the end of the season"
"There are many rumours but that is all they are - they are not contract offers," the 25-year-old said.
"Any footballer wants to play at a great club but I have a contract with the Freiburg until 2014 and I am happy here. My intention is not to leave in January and to see what happens at the end of the season."
Money talks and bullsh!t walks. If we truly want him and are willing to pay, then he would end up in west London.
Full-on Sale
Thursday 30th December 2010
The Full-On Sale is now on and with up to 60% off selected items this is the perfect time to pick up your Official Fulham merchandise. Your purchases can be made at the official online store|, or either of the Club's retail stores on Fulham Road and Craven Cottage.
Why not purchase the finest quality leather wallet| with the Fulham badge marked on the inside or if you want get everyone involved, the classic Fulham Monopoly| is great fun for all the family and at just £19.99 it's a real bargain.
Tour Fulham FC for the hottest properties; players, legends and stands are all up for grabs. Invest in real estate and stadia, then watch the rent come pouring in.
With items in limited supply now is the time to buy all the latest Fulham FC merchandise.
Such great prices and so much variety, treat yourself today as this sale will not be around for long!
Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/Fullonsale.aspx#ixzz19ajF4cGS (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/Fullonsale.aspx#ixzz19ajF4cGS)
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/12/30/jamie-ds-report-stoke-0-2-fulham/
Jamie D's report: Stoke 0-2 Fulham
Filed under: Match reports — rich @ 10:55 am
That magical first ten minutes... I doubt Mark Hughes could have dreamed it better. The travelling fans had hardly settled down, Stoke fans hadn't even given their rendition of the famous Delilah and there we were in the lead. A loose ball around the edge of the area and Chris "Bairdinho" Baird struck a stunning effort which cannoned off the post and nestled into the far corner. Extraordinary.
We had barely recovered from the shock before we scored again. The whites pushed forward again and earned a free-kick on the edge of the box: "Shooooot" we all cried at Baird. Little did we expect he would do just that and crack it into the bottom right hand corner. Unrivalled joy.
We knew the Stoke onslaught was going to come sure enough they settled down a little and started to do what they do best: lump it forward. But nothing was to stop us today. Hangeland and Hughes stood up to the test, marshalling the Stoke bully boys while Murphy had what I felt was his best game of the season, spraying the ball about with every pass, greeted by a chorus of cheers from the travelling fans. He even cleared one off the line following a Stoke corner.
The second half was a little different. We were under the cosh with Stoke knocking at the door, yet we handled it all. The throws and the crosses came in and Hangeland and co. got rid of the threat every time. They threw on Fuller and Tuncay to bolster their attack but to no avail. We looked as though we had regained the defensive solidarity of the Hodgson era. Schwarzer made only one real top save and the game fizzled out, much to ours and the players' delight.
The fans were rewarded with all the players' shirts and also hugs and high fives from John Paintsil, but of course the 3 points were all we really wanted. All seems well again.
http://www.sport1.nl/nieuws/11990-geruchten.html
Ajax Suarez and captures millions of mounir
Thursday, December 30, 2010, 10:51
Ajax is looking for new attackers. Several Spanish and English media reported that both Luis Suárez and Mounir El Hamdaoui sold in January. Real Madrid and Fulham have lodged a bid in Amsterdam.
The strikers have really had in the Arena. Suárez is tired of the Dutch league and fed up of his seven matches suspension. The Uruguayan suspension also knows that he takes abroad, but has instructed his agent to Pere Guardiola eagerly to look for a club in Spain.
Real Madrid Gonzalo Higauín likely to be missing in March, and coach Jose Mourinho keen interest to an attacker. Los Merengues is willing to initially 21 million euro to Ajax. The amount could rise to 26 million over the next few years as real places for the Champions League.
Fulham almost seems to have ended with Martin Jol and that means El Hamdaoui can also move. The Londoners 8 million euros for the Moroccan, but want it in three installments. Ajax is still considering the proposals of both Real and Fulham, trainer De Boer is inclined to agree.
The shortlist of Ajax is also known. Romelu Lukaku (Anderlecht), Ricky Wolfswinkel (FC Utrecht), Tim Matavz (FC Groningen), Rydell Poepon (De Graafschap), Luuk de Jong (FC Twente) and Roy Beerens (SC Heerenveen) shine all on the list, from which the farmer has to choose two.
Espanyol has a strong performance in the first half of the season, but wants it after the new year will do even better. The second club from Barcelona will therefore strengthen its vanguard Carlos Vela, the Mexican striker that Arsenal are not in the basin. Espanyol, according to AS 7.5 million euros for Vela, but when this proves impossible in order for the club's striker rent.
Clarín think that AC Milan has the best credentials to Erik Lamela add to the selection. The Rossoneri have competition from Internazionale and Real Madrid look to turn down the great promise of River Plate. The preference of the eighteen Lamela itself is still uncertain. River Plate was already known that they themselves want to do business, but then the main prize (7 million) for Lamela asks.
Quote from: White Noise on December 30, 2010, 11:52:34 AM
http://www.sport1.nl/nieuws/11990-geruchten.html
Ajax Suarez and captures millions of mounir
Thursday, December 30, 2010, 10:51
Ajax is looking for new attackers. Several Spanish and English media reported that both Luis Suárez and Mounir El Hamdaoui sold in January. Real Madrid and Fulham have lodged a bid in Amsterdam.
The strikers have really had in the Arena. Suárez is tired of the Dutch league and fed up of his seven matches suspension. The Uruguayan suspension also knows that he takes abroad, but has instructed his agent to Pere Guardiola eagerly to look for a club in Spain.
Real Madrid Gonzalo Higauín likely to be missing in March, and coach Jose Mourinho keen interest to an attacker. Los Merengues is willing to initially 21 million euro to Ajax. The amount could rise to 26 million over the next few years as real places for the Champions League.
Fulham almost seems to have ended with Martin Jol and that means El Hamdaoui can also move. The Londoners 8 million euros for the Moroccan, but want it in three installments. Ajax is still considering the proposals of both Real and Fulham, trainer De Boer is inclined to agree.
The shortlist of Ajax is also known. Romelu Lukaku (Anderlecht), Ricky Wolfswinkel (FC Utrecht), Tim Matavz (FC Groningen), Rydell Poepon (De Graafschap), Luuk de Jong (FC Twente) and Roy Beerens (SC Heerenveen) shine all on the list, from which the farmer has to choose two.
Espanyol has a strong performance in the first half of the season, but wants it after the new year will do even better. The second club from Barcelona will therefore strengthen its vanguard Carlos Vela, the Mexican striker that Arsenal are not in the basin. Espanyol, according to AS 7.5 million euros for Vela, but when this proves impossible in order for the club's striker rent.
Clarín think that AC Milan has the best credentials to Erik Lamela add to the selection. The Rossoneri have competition from Internazionale and Real Madrid look to turn down the great promise of River Plate. The preference of the eighteen Lamela itself is still uncertain. River Plate was already known that they themselves want to do business, but then the main prize (7 million) for Lamela asks.
11 goals in 17 Eredivise-matches this season with an overall rate of 64 goals in 104 appearances.
http://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/en/mounir-el-hamdaoui/leistungsdaten/spieler_21490.html (http://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/en/mounir-el-hamdaoui/leistungsdaten/spieler_21490.html)
Contracted to Ajax until 2014.
Arsenal youngster Havard Nordtveit completes switch to Bundesliga strugglers Borussia Monchengladbach
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 1:04 PM on 30th December 2010
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2010/12/30/article-1342738-0C8A081C000005DC-26_306x423.jpg)
On the move: Havard Nordtveit
Arsenal have off-loaded defender Havard Nordtveit to German side Borussia Monchengladbach.
Nordtveit, 20, spent part of last season on loan from the Gunners at Nuremberg, and is joining on a 2½-year contract with a transfer fee in the region of £800,000.
Monchengladbach have also snapped up Austrian defender Martin Stranzl from Spartak Moscow.
Stranzl has also signed a 2½-year deal, on an undisclosed fee, and had been linked with a move to the Premier League, with West Ham, Fulham and Everton all said to be interested in the 30-year-old stopper.
Moenchengladbach are bottom of the Bundesliga with 10 points with the division's worst defensive record.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342738/Arsenals-Havard-Nordtveit-moves-Borussia-Monchengladbach.html#ixzz19bP81mx3 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342738/Arsenals-Havard-Nordtveit-moves-Borussia-Monchengladbach.html#ixzz19bP81mx3)
http://www.101greatgoals.com/top-10-games-of-2010/77963/
The Top 10 Games of 2010
Thursday, December 30th, 2010
With just hours before 2011 it is that time of the year to reflect on the past 12 months and choose our top 10 games of 2010.
There has been much discussion in 101 Great Goals HQ about what constitutes a "top game" so for this list we have gone with an iconic match that you will immediately think of when discussing football in 2010.
We may possibly have missed out your favourite match so please do let us know in the comments. And of course wishing you all a happy 2011!
1. Manchester United 3 – Bayern Munich 2 (Champions League quarter-final second leg, April 7, 2010) Responding to a 2-1 defecit from the first leg, Sir Alex Ferguson's side came out the blocks in scintillating fashion turning the tie on its head with goals from Darron Gibson and a brace from Nani. Ivica Olic brought Bayern back into the tie two minutes before the break and after Rafael had been sent off the Germans scented blood. Arjen Robben claimed a terrific aggregate winner to send Louis van Gaal's side through after a terrific game at Old Trafford.
2. Fulham 4 – Juventus 1 (Europa League round of 16 second leg, March 18, 2010) Probably the most dramatic night ever witnessed by the Craven Cottage faithful. David Trezeguet's second minute opener put the Old Lady into a 4-1 aggregate lead but Roy Hodgson's team did not know when they were beaten on the way to the final of the Europa League (where they'd eventually lose to Atletico Madrid). Bobby Zamora pulled the first back before Zoltan Gera claimed a brace to set up a dramatic end to the final 40 minutes. Clint Dempsey duly stepped up with a brilliant chipped goal to win the tie 5-4 on aggregate with eight minutes remaining in surely the most dramatic Europa League match to date.
3. Inter Milan 3 – Barcelona 1 (Champions League semi-final first leg, April 20, 2010) Whilst the second leg in the Nou Camp saw an incredible rearguard performance from the Nerazzurri and crazed celebrations at full-time, this was the match where Jose Mourinho's side put one leg in the final. Barcelona rarely lose by two goals and it didn't look likely when Pedro slotted home the opener. Inter responded with goals by Wesley Sneijder, Maicon and Diego Milito to prove that Jose Mourinho's side were not just about defending but could also outscore even the best teams in Europe.
4. Manchester City 0 – Tottenham 1 (Premier League, May 5, 2010) The penultimate game of the Premier League season was billed as the 60 million pound match by Fleet Street as Harry Redknapp's swashbuckling side headed to Eastlands looking to secure fourth spot and entry into the Champions League. Whoever would have made the premier competition in Europe would have finally laid rest to the "Big Four" dominance in England and it was Tottenham who performed well on the night, attacking throughout despite a draw being enough to leave them in pole position to claim fourth. Peter Crouch's late goal sealed the win and set up the Tottenham adventure in Europe that has seen them beat European champions Inter Milan at home and now face AC Milan over two legs in the first knockout round of the Champions League 2010/2011.
5. Bayern Munich 0 – Inter Milan 2 (Champions League final, May 22, 2010) The two sides came into this match looking to create history by securing a treble of domestic title, cup and the Champions League trophy. Jose Mourinho emerged as the major winner, claiming "Big Ears" for the second time and securing his position as coach of Real Madrid just days later. Diego Milito was the main star with two goals in the match, exploiting some weak defending from Munich and showcasing his expert finishing. Massimo Moratti enjoyed his finest hour as Inter president and the question now at the San Siro is whether anyone can ever live up to the Special One?
6. Germany 4 – England 1 (World Cup 2010 last 16, June 27, 2010) Germany eviscerated both England and Argentina but this game warrants inclusion in our top 10 list because of the drama at the end of the first half that simply has to ensure FIFA adopt goal line technology. Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski had put Jogi Low's side 2-0 up with some typical attacking football. The Three Lions responded with a header from Matthew Upson and then looked to have drawn level before the break with a Frank Lampard effort that rebounded off the bar and clearly over the line. The goal was rejected by the Uruguayan officials and a stunning German performance was rewarded with second half goals from Thomas Muller with Mesut Ozil memorably skinning Gareth Barry for the fourth.
7. Uruguay 1* – Ghana 1 (Penalties 4-2) (World Cup quarter-final, July 2, 2010) For many the World Cup failed to live up to the hype and certainly the opening weeks of the tournament in South Africa witnessed some turgid games. This match, or at least the final seconds of extra time, saw the most dramatic of circumstances that had they been in a film would have been denounced as unbelievable. Sulley Muntari's opener was cancelled out by Diego Forlan in normal time but the late scramble, which eventually saw Luis Suarez save with his hand on the line, receive a red card and then Asamoah Gyan miss a penalty to send Ghana through must be one of the craziest moments of insanity in World Cup history.
8. Holland 0 – Spain 1 (AET) (World Cup Final, July 11, 2010) Like the tournament that preceded it, this game failed to really ignite but the win for La Furia Roja was a victory for good football and the gold trophy was handed to the best team in South Africa. An aggressive Dutch side were shown in full glory with Nigel De Jong's now infamous kung-fu kick on Xabi Alonso in the first half. Arjen Robben was presented with two great chances in the second period but the Dutch winger failed to take his opportunities and in extra time, Spain's tiki-taka finally paid off to secure another 1-0 win. Andres Iniesta fired past Stekelenburg after a searching ball from substitute Cesc Fabregas to set off wild celebrations in Johannesburg and Spain.
9. PSV 10 – Feyenoord 0 (Eredivisie, October 24, 2010) Feyenoord's current poor standing in Dutch football was highlighted for the world as PSV took them to the cleaners and scored 10 goals without reply. In their defence, Feyenoord had Kelvin Leerdam sent off but it was just 2-0 at half-time. Jonathan Reis claimed a hat-trick, both Jeremain Lens and Balazs Dzsudzsak notched braces and Ibrahim Afellay, Ola Toivonen and Orlando Engelaar also scored in what is Feyenoord's heaviest ever defeat.
10. Barcelona 5 – Real Madrid 0 (La Liga, November 29, 2010) Barcelona produced one of the greatest team performances of all time as they smashed their great rivals Real Madrid with some incredible football. Jose Mourinho described the loss as a "historically bad result for his club" and to see Los Blancos reduced to shadows showed many that this current Barca side will take some stopping. Xavi volleyed the opener past Casillas and Pedro scored number two to leave Madrid with a mountain to climb despite the best efforts of Cristiano Ronaldo. A quick fire brace by David Villa sealed the win early in the second half and a fifth from Jeffren in the 90th minute completed the stunning victory.
