Friends of Fulham

General Category => Archive => Daily Fulham Stuff => Topic started by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 07:54:24 AM

Title: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 07:54:24 AM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342838/Mark-Hughes-confident-Bobby-Zamora-make-early-return-Fulham.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342838/Mark-Hughes-confident-Bobby-Zamora-make-early-return-Fulham.html?)

Mark Hughes confident Bobby Zamora will make an early return for Fulham

Mark Hughes is confident Bobby Zamora will be fit enough to rejoin squad training sessions as early as next week.

The striker broke his right leg on September 11 and also suffered ligament damage to his ankle.

Fulham have found goals hard to come by in Zamora's absence and have been linked with a £2m move for Cardiff City's Jay Bothroyd in January.

Hughes said: 'I'm aware of Jay because I worked with him at Blackburn. But, from my knowledge, he is very much a Cardiff player.'

And Hughes is considering a move for Stoke misfit Eidur Gudjohnsen. Stoke will listen to offers for the 32-year-old.



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342838/Mark-Hughes-confident-Bobby-Zamora-make-early-return-Fulham.html#ixzz19fpwwBk7 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342838/Mark-Hughes-confident-Bobby-Zamora-make-early-return-Fulham.html#ixzz19fpwwBk7)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 07:56:41 AM
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/30/david-stockdale-handed-fulham-chance-82029-27909185/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/30/david-stockdale-handed-fulham-chance-82029-27909185/?)

David Stockdale handed Fulham chance

DAVID Stockdale can rekindle his England hopes when he takes over from Mark Schwarzer in Fulham's goal next week – according to his boss.

Stockdale will don the gloves against WBA on Tuesday because Fulham's number one is on his way with Australia to the Asia Cup, although Mark Hughes has ruled out a loan keeper while Schwarzer is away for at least five games.

The Whites manager will upgrade 20-year-old Neil Etheridge from the academy to the bench and insists Stockdale is good enough to get Fulham upwardly mobile.

The former Darlington shot-stopper was being slated to join the England camp in August before an ankle injury in the 2-2 draw at Blackpool strangled his chances at birth.

But Hughes is confident a decent showing while Schwarzer sweats in Qatar will have England coach Fabio Capello back to Craven Cottage checking on the 25-year-old.

Hughes said: "David got near to an England squad and probably would have been in – and we've got to hope he makes a similar impression.

"He did really well when he came in at the beginning of the season – and there's no reason why he can't do the same."

"Ideally for us, it would be good if Australia got knocked in the group stages of the Asia Cup – but that's not going to happen looking at their group.

"But we've got Neil Etheridge coming back from international duty (with the Philippines) – and we're comfortable with our situation."



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/30/david-stockdale-handed-fulham-chance-82029-27909185/?#ixzz19fqaIF2l (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/30/david-stockdale-handed-fulham-chance-82029-27909185/?#ixzz19fqaIF2l)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 07:58:19 AM
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6623378,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6623378,00.html?)

Stoor set for Fulham exit
Swede's transfer request accepted by Cottagers

Fulham defender Fredrik Stoor is set to leave the club after his transfer request was finally granted.

The 26-year-old right-back has endured a torrid time since arriving at Craven Cottage back in 2008 and has not started a single Premier League game for the West Londoners.

Sweden international Stoor is set to end his Fulham nightmare and secure a move back to Scandinavia or elsewhere in Europe.

"I said I want to get away from here, and it seems there may be something this time," he told Fotbollskanalen.

"What it is is too early to say. I've wanted to be sold a long time, and now the club has changed. They have agreed to let me go in this window.

"I know there are clubs in both Denmark and Norway who are interested. I've also heard rumours about clubs in other leagues in Europe who are interested, but so far nothing is clear."

Stoor had a spell on loan with Derby last season but will now make a permanent switch away from Fulham when the transfer window opens.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:01:14 AM
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/12/30/without-zamora/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2010/12/30/without-zamora/?)

Without Zamora
Filed under: Analysis — timmyg 
Here's a guest post by Dominic, otherwise known as ImperialWhite. It may be a little out of date, but that is completely my fault — holidays and all. Enjoy!

As I write it's freezing cold and snowing. But in Fulham there's a drought. A goal drought – just 17 goals – level with Birmingham having played one more, and only Wigan have fewer (15). Our defensive record is still impressive – we're level with Tottenham on 23 goals conceded, joint 11th.

I'm sure nobody needed me to tell them that our current woes stem from our inability to score. Rightly or wrongly, this is often blamed on Karl Henry and that tackle on Bobby Zamora. But hang on – last season Zamora did score a lot (8), but you've also got Dempsey (7), Duff (6), Murphy (5) and others (13). Only a fifth of our goals (20.5%) came from Bobby's golden boots (or arse – in the case of his winning goal at Pompey, our last league away win).

This season? Dempsey, 5 (what a star this man is – at this goal rate set to beat Zamora's tally last season) and 12 goals fall that into the 'others' category; no one else has scored more than 2. So is it more just a case of taking last season and subtracting Zamora? According to www.premierleague.com (http://www.premierleague.com) Zamora had 6 assists. This brings his contribution up to 35.9%. Enough to account for the paucity of goals? Certainly, we're an old side, and we benefit enormously from a player with his strength and technique that can hold a ball, and disrupt and distract a defence, like no one else in the squad.

Last season we were relatively lucky with injuries, especially given that we played an astonishing 63 games. However, our forays into Europe led Hodgson to make a number of changes in the league. www.football-lineups.com (http://www.football-lineups.com) allows us to examine our record in games without Zamora last season (a season many acknowledge as one of the best in our history). Zamora played in all games but 11 last season. Below is a table comparing Hughes' and Hodgson's record in league games in which Zamora didn't play.

(http://cravencottagenewsround.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/fig1.jpg?w=650&h=140)
Figure 1 – Comparing Hughes' and Hodgson's record in games with Zamora.

(http://cravencottagenewsround.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/fig2.jpg?w=650&h=363)
Figure 2 – Roy Hodgon's record in games last season without Zamora

Both poor records. Hodgson only betters Hughes by 0.1 points a game, not enough to increase our league placing, and statistically speaking there isn't a difference between them (according to a rough and ready Excel T-test, p value=0.8). To produce adjusted points and league place I multiplied their respective points per game record by 14 and added the 6 points won the period with Zamora when we still looked impressive (a win against Wolves and draws against Bolton, Manchester United and Blackpool). Perhaps this shows, given the lack of depth in our squad, that we were doomed whoever was in charge, the moment Karl Henry tackled Zamora?

Prior to this exercise I was firmly in the Hughes-out camp – but now I'm not so sure. Surely to doubt Hughes is to doubt Hodgson (one of the greatest managers Fulham have ever had), given their respective records in comparable circumstances? One could argue that in Hodgson's games without Zamora, he was forced to change more than just Zamora. Or, one could argue that Hughes' games are in his first half season – whereas most of these games fall within the last half season of Hodgson's reign so has far more experience with this squad. What do people, both doubters and supporters of Hughes, think – is this a sensible analysis?
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:02:48 AM
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/12/were-winning-away-were-winning-awayyyy/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/12/were-winning-away-were-winning-awayyyy/?)

We're winning away, we're winning awayyyy...
by LORK on DECEMBER 30, 2010

Sunday was abysmal, there's no hiding it. To lose 3-1 to the worst side in the league at home with one of the greatest 'snatching defeat from the jaws of victory' performances I've seen was demoralising and embarassing and it just goes to show then how long two days is in football. The opinion on Hughes has swivelled from almost unanimous calls of 'HUGHES OUT' to 'Well he's alright really'.

No bones about it, the win at Stoke was massive, not just for Hughes but for our season. When we were threatened to being cut off at the bottom of the table we pulled a gritty, determined performance out of the bag. After two great goals from Chris Baird (saying that will never ever get old) we went through to half time fairly comfortably. AJ went close to scoring and Murphy cleared off the line but other than that the other 35 minutes weren't particuarly eventful. The second half however called for big performances from the players with Stoke pumping their typical long balls into our box for almost all of it, and thankfully they delivered. Hangeland, Hughes and Schwarzer deserve to come out of the game with alot of credit. They coped admirably with the aerial bombardment at the heart of our defence and set the tone for our performance.

As I said this result meant alot to Hughes. We are still in the relegation zone but only 3 points seperate us in 18th and Everton in 11th, and from there it's only another 3 until Blackpool in 8th. The season then is no where near set in stone and if we get a good run of results going we could be pushing for a top ten place. Our problem since Zamora got injured is basically a complete lack of end product in the final third; build up play is nice to watch and our defence is pretty good (no one's conceded fewer goals away from home) but as soon as we get in and around the penalty area we fall apart, demonstrated in painful fashion against West Ham after controlling the vast majority of that first half. Bairdinho sorted that out for us on Tuesday but we can't rely on 20 yard screamers every game so it was good to see Hughes in post-match interviews confirm he's in for a striker or two in January.

The fist pumping  by Hughes to the away fans was good to see, it shows that after calls that he isn't that bothered or motivated to succeed he does very much care about what he does here and hat action alone also seems to have increased his affinity with the fans a fair bit going off the post match reactions on the messageboards. He still seems a bit of an awkward fit here but hopefully at Spurs and West Brom we'll hear more 'Marky Hughes Blawhiarmayy' from the stands. Also interesting to watch was how the players acted. Also in the face of calls that Hughes no longer has the players support we saw a side work exceptionally hard and make a point of all grouping together after the goals. I didn't think he lost the players and the Stoke game showed it, the players really did look pumped up for it and they went mental after scoring the goals. It was a shame about Pulis not shaking Hughes' hand, it was a bit childish really, but Hughes dealt with it well in the interviews after the game.

So next up is Spurs away. It would be unfair to expect a win at one of the best teams in the country but I'm feeling optimistic that if we put in a good performance we could nick something after finally banishing that away hoodoo for another season at least. After that we have West Brom and Peterborough at home in League and Cup respectively, so by the time we're into the second week of January we could be looking at a couple of home wins. I'd expect to win those two and it would give Hughes a bit of breathing room if we do. It's always nice to go far in cups and it'll be a good confidence booster to get a comfortable home win after a poor one of results at Craven Cottage. I hope we get a good crowd in though, Peterborough have already sold three and a half thousand tickets!

More important for Hughes and us though is that the transer market is reopened in 2 days. I'm genuinely really looking forward to Hughes will do here. His record at Blackburn with regards to player buys is very very impressive and some of the names we've been linked with are exciting, and although we need to take most rumours with a truckload of salt there are some solid articles that we can believe, such as the quotes from the Romanian press of Lacina Traore joining, Bentley coming on loan and the potential transfer of Ochoa (although that's no longer happening, it's good to see we're being linked with some of the worlds best young talent, something we haven't seen for a while). It also shows the support Hughes has from up above, and if he's being given a few quid to spend to build a team then it's likely that he will be around until the end of the season and probably for a few more after that. I think that with this Stoke result Hughes has turned a corner, and with the January additions I am confident that we're going to have a good second half of the season.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:04:12 AM
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/dec/30/mark-hughes-christopher-samba-blackburn-fulham? (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/dec/30/mark-hughes-christopher-samba-blackburn-fulham?)

Mark Hughes hopes to lure Christopher Samba from Blackburn to Fulham
• Christopher Samba unhappy at dismissal of Sam Allardyce
• Mark Hughes signed defender for Blackburn Rovers in 2007

Mark Hughes, the Fulham manager, is hoping to capitalise on Christopher Samba's apparent unhappiness at Blackburn Rovers by making a move for the defender when the transfer window opens.

Hughes was Blackburn's manager when Samba signed from Hertha Berlin for £450,000 in January 2007, and is keen to be reunited with a player he believes can make a big difference for a Fulham side struggling in 18th position.

Samba went public with his desire to leave Ewood Park after the club's new owners, the Venky's Group, sacked Sam Allardyce this month. Steve Kean, Allardyce's replacement, has since reported that Samba has changed his mind but Hughes believes he can attract a player who represents one of his more astute pieces of transfer business.

Hughes is also mulling over a move for another of his former players, Manchester City's unwanted striker Roque Santa Cruz, but has reservations about pinning his hopes on a player with such a persistent injury record.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:05:20 AM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/PantsilSpursPreview.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/PantsilSpursPreview.aspx?)

Fighting Spirit
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Pantsil/PantsilStoke.jpg)

On Thursday afternoon John Pantsil discussed the importance of Fulham's victory over Stoke earlier this week as he looked ahead to this weekend's London derby against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.

"It was really important to get that away win against Stoke," Pantsil told fulhamfc.com. "That has lifted the spirit because Stoke are a really tough side to beat. They're big boys and they're tough.

"It was a good atmosphere afterwards driving back to London. We didn't even think about the long journey back, we were just happy with the victory.

"We were very professional on Tuesday and fought hard whilst playing good football. To play Stoke and beat them at the Britannia, you have to be stronger than them. If not they will beat you and frustrate you.

"We were tactically disciplined on the pitch and everyone did really well. When we do our jobs the team game takes care of itself. What we have to do now is continue that form on Saturday against Spurs."

Fulham proved more than a match for Stoke on Tuesday in every department and Pantsil believes the mettle that the Team added to their game at the Britannia Stadium could prove decisive against Spurs on New Year's Day.

"We have to continue where we left off at Stoke," Pantsil explained. "It's important to keep that fighting spirit we showed on Tuesday. I'm looking forward to the challenge this weekend. We still need more points to move us up the table and away from the bottom and we're all well prepared for the game.

"We stick together as a Club and hopefully we can get a good result against Spurs. It's going to be a tough game but we don't want to be down near the bottom - we believe in ourselves."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/PantsilSpursPreview.aspx?#ixzz19fsmVAtN (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/PantsilSpursPreview.aspx?#ixzz19fsmVAtN)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:06:32 AM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/FitnessNews.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/FitnessNews.aspx?)

Forward Line
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Dembele/General2.jpg)

There was some positive news from the Training Ground ahead of Saturday's match against Spurs as Mark Hughes reported a clean bill of health following Tuesday night's battling performance at the Britannia Stadium.

"Obviously we've had a couple of games in quick succession and sometimes the players can be compromised by the workload, but the players seem to have come through the games we've played well," Hughes told fulhamfc.com. "There are a few bumps and bruises from a very tough game against Stoke but everybody came through okay.

There was further good news concerning the fitness of strikers Mousa Dembele and Bobby Zamora, with the Belgium international expected to return to action against West Brom at the Cottage on Tuesday night. Meanwhile Zamora will be looking to step up his recovery next week at the Training Ground, as Hughes explained.

"We've have some good news on Mousa Dembele," said Hughes. "He looks better than he has done for a number of weeks so we're hopeful. He may not be ready for the weekend but we're hopeful for the West Brom game next Tuesday.

"Bobby is stepping up his training. We hope to involve him in warm-ups at some point next week. That's the next part of his rehab and his progress is going well.

"We're going to keep him in and around the group now. Along with his ability as a player his personality has been missed. We'll make sure that any work he's doing with the physios will be near the ground so he's in sight of the players, so he can shout at them and give them some stick!"



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/FitnessNews.aspx?#ixzz19ft5S0cF (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/FitnessNews.aspx?#ixzz19ft5S0cF)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:07:52 AM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226225 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226225)

Fulham - Hughes Returning To Wales!
For a signing that is!

With January 1st drawing ever closer and with Mark Hughes anticipated as being keen to be actively involved in the luring of several new players to Craven Cottage, the tabloid press are hawking the story around that Hughes is interested in luring the Cardiff striker, Jay Bothroyd, to West London.

A fee of £2 million is mentioned for a player that has scored regularly in the Championship this season and a player who, through his scoring exploits, earned an England squad call-up earlier this season.

Now whether Dave Jones, the Cardiff manager, will sanction such a move remains to be seen and with Cardiff actively mounting a promotion campaign the club may decide not to cash in on their asset even though their financial status has caused a few waves in recent years.


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226225#ixzz19ftNoXoQ (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226225#ixzz19ftNoXoQ)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:08:51 AM
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/30/spurs-v-fulham-82029-27909583/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/30/spurs-v-fulham-82029-27909583/?)

Spurs v Fulham

CHRIS Baird will be given the chance to prove lightning strikes twice when the Fulham defender lines up free-kicks at Spurs on Saturday.

His boss reckoned it was a 'massive oversight' to deny the Northern Ireland international previous opportunities before his two missiles from distance secured the Whites first away win in 27 attempts at Stoke on Tuesday.

In his defence, Mark Hughes reckoned that neither of the previous two managers before him at Craven Cottage saw the potential in Baird's explosive right foot.

The manager said: "It was a hell of an oversight – but it wasn't just me.

"Bairdy can hit a ball as sweetly as anyone at the club, and having got the away game hurdle out of the way we can go on to better things."

Despite the 2-0 win at the Britannia Stadium, Hughes is aware his team must nullify the threat of fellow Welshman Gareth Bale at White Hart Lane – as well as his Tottenham team-mates.

He said: "We've got to keep his (Bale's) involvement to a minimum – it's true.

"But the problem is that if you focus too much on one player then Tottenham have got others who can exploit a moment's loss of focus.

"We've got to make sure we break up the momentum they can generate and ask questions ourselves."

The game comes too soon for striker Mousa Dembele – but Hughes has pencilled in the Belgian international for a return to face WBA at home on Tuesday night.

Fulham are also without long-term injured Bobby Zamora and Philippe Senderos as they bid to get out of the Premiership's bottom three.



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/30/spurs-v-fulham-82029-27909583/?#ixzz19ftfWrUp (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/30/spurs-v-fulham-82029-27909583/?#ixzz19ftfWrUp)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:09:55 AM
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6623610,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6623610,00.html?)

Hughes quells Bothroyd link
Cottagers chief plays down speculation over striker

Mark Hughes has cooled media speculation that Jay Bothroyd is on his wishlist during the January transfer window.

The Fulham manager admitted that the club need to address their insufficient goal tally but would not reveal whether Cardiff City striker Bothroyd was a potential target when the market opens in the New Year.

The Cottagers have mustered just 19 goals this season and have badly missed the threat of Bobby Zamora, who broke his leg at the start of the campaign.

Bothroyd has been elevated into the spotlight this term with 13 goals amassed in the Championship and the much-travelled front-man was handed his first England cap in the friendly against France after impressing manager Fabio Capello.
But Hughes, who worked with the 28-year-old during his time as Blackburn Rovers boss, has played down reports linking him with a £2million move for the Bluebirds centre-forward.

Hughes told Sky Sports News HD: "I'm aware of Jay because I worked with him at Blackburn Rovers and that's where the speculation is coming from.

"He's certainly matured as a player from when I had him. He was still a young player and he was finding his way and he's had a few problems at previous clubs.

"But from my knowledge he's a Cardiff player and it's not something I particularly like to do - talk about other players at other clubs."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:10:44 AM
http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/12/30/hughes_stays_positive? (http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/12/30/hughes_stays_positive?)

Hughes stays positive
Manager Mark Hughes is convinced he can silence his critics by dragging Fulham up the Barclays Premier League table in 2011.

The Welshman has found life tough at Fulham since his appointment and his side will start the new year in the relegation zone after winning just three of their opening 19 league games.

The picture at Craven Cottage could not have been more different 12 months ago when, under Roy Hodgson, the west Londoners were ninth in the league and had just qualified for the knockout stages of the Europa League.

Despite the 2-0 win at Stoke, Fulham remain serious relegation candidates but under-pressure Hughes is sure the Cottagers will have a better second half of the season - and his managerial record suggests he may well be right.

Throughout his five seasons in club management, Hughes' sides have always won more matches in the second half of the season than the first. That, Hughes insists, means Fulham stand a good chance of climbing the division next year.

"We are obviously frustrated because of the situation we find ourselves in at the moment but the second half is likely to give us more enjoyment and success than the first half," Hughes said. "The frustration we felt in the first half will disappear, we'll get players back and we'll kick on in the second half of the season because invariably teams that are managed by me are stronger in the second half of the season. We are more than capable of really kicking on next year."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:12:30 AM
http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/12/meet-fans-andy.html? (http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2010/12/meet-fans-andy.html?)

Craven Cottagers
Following the 2007/8, 2008/9, 2009/10 and 2010/11 seasons at Craven Cottage - recounted by season ticket holders who aren't actually Fulham fans.


Meet the 'fans' - Andy
A weedy capitulation to one of the country's worst teams live on TV only to then wrest three points from the Britannia Stadium a few days later is one of the more puzzling aspects of this Fulham side. But they still sit in the relegation zone so this next week will be very, very important.
'
Anyway here's another exciting profile:

Name: Andy
Season tickets held: 2007/8, 2008/9, 2009/10, 2010/11
Hometown: Ashton-under-Lyne, Manchester
Football team supported: Manchester United (with affiliations to Preston North End and Oldham Athletic)

Why did you get a Fulham Season Ticket? I wanted to create a regular social occurrence with some of my friends. We all liked football and the £299 season ticket was too good value to turn down.

Favourite Game: Last season's home game against Juventus has absolutely mental, but for sheer emotion the Hamburg semi-final home leg  was something else. From my mad dash back from Madrid, to the 'stand up if you still believe' chant, to the Simon Davies goal, to the 2-1 victory and grown men crying in the stands, to the victory and my first pint in a pub for nine months which lasted approximately 9 seconds.

Favourite Goal: Again trying to avoid the Juve game - Diomansy Kamara's last minute overhead kick that made it 3-3 against Tottenham Hotspur in September 2007. I think that's when I got the bug.

Favourite Player: As much as I love Johnny Paintsil, I think Clint Dempsey has to take this accolade. He has a lot of attributes that I like in a player.

Least favourite player: Sol Ki-Hyeon - what an absolute waste of space

What do Fulham now mean to you? I honestly don't know. I'm an enthusiastic spectator but does the mania go beyond that? They won't replace United as my first love, despite how lukewarm I am about the current administration there, but will they elbow Preston from the number 2 slot? They should but there is a finite capacity for football supportage than many believe I have already transcended by having more than one team.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:13:53 AM
http://www.epltalk.com/4-reasons-why-fulham-need-to-keep-manager-mark-hughes-28120?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EPLTalk+%28EPL+Talk%29 (http://www.epltalk.com/4-reasons-why-fulham-need-to-keep-manager-mark-hughes-28120?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+EPLTalk+%28EPL+Talk%29)

4 Reasons Why Fulham Need to Keep Manager Mark Hughes

Looking at the table and seeing Fulham currently in 18th position halfway through the season it makes sense to be concerned as a Fulham supporter. The next thing many fans are going to look at are the reasons why Fulham are in the relegation zone. I plan on sharing my points on why I believe Fulham are where they are, and where I think they will end up. However, I feel strongly that a change of manager would be a mistake. Mark Hughes should not be sacked.

First, I feel Hughes should stay is he has not had the proper time to really make a fair judgement on him. Hughes came to Fulham only a few weeks before the season began. It takes time to implement a new system. Half a season to me does not seem like a long time for his style of play to completely show itself as a failure or a success.

Second, another reason for Hughes to stay is he should have the chance to build his squad. The January transfer window is about to open soon. Hughes will have the opportunity to find players to fit into the system he has brought to Fulham. He has already brought in 3 players this summer in Mousa Dembele, Rafik Halliche, and Carlos Salcido. However, I think he needs more reinforcements to play the style he wants Fulham to have.


Third,  Hughes should stay because is not playing with a full squad now. Injuries I believe are a big part of the reason Fulham are currently in 18th. Losing Bobby Zamora to an injury early in the season has become a much bigger issue than I thought. He has been out since September 11th, and won't be returning until February. Fulham really do not have anyone to hold the ball, and really control the defender outside of the box like Zamora. He is a huge physical presence that really helps open up scoring opportunities for the other players.

Also, losing Dembele twice to injuries has hurt the progress of the club as well. In a very short period of time Fulham fans have seen glimpses of a player that I think has the potential to be a star. He got hurt originally on September 21st against Stoke City in a League Cup match. He came back several weeks later but it looked like he was not 100%. He then got hurt during the last international break.

For a team of the size of Fulham, losing those players is a big deal and has to considered a reason for the slow start of the season. Teams like Chelsea can overcome injuries to star players, but it is not as easy for a club like Fulham.

Fourth, another reason Hughes should stay is because of the style of play he has brought to the club. It is a much more adventurous and offensive approach to football from the more defensive style Fulham were playing under Roy Hodgson. We have seen glimpses of what this style can bring very early on in a draw with Manchester United. Hughes' approach also has shown Fulham to be more aggressive on the road. Fulham under Hughes are not playing for a draw, they are going for the win.

It is easy to point the finger at the manager when the club is losing. I don't blame fans for wanting him to be replaced. They are voicing their displeasure on the situation with Fulham. In many situations I think it is vital to switch the manager. However, with Fulham I just don't think sacking Hughes is the correct decision now.

I believe to fully evaluate Hughes you need to wait to see where the team is after the return of the injured players, and when new players have been brought in to help the club. I feel we will know the direction of Fulham in March.

I got a glimpse of what Fulham's style of play was with a complete squad in September and it really impressed me. I look forward to seeing what Fulham can do when Zamora and Dembele again play together.

So I think Fulham are where they are partially because of the injuries, and the lack of scoring up front. If you want to put some of the blame on Hughes for the lack of scoring I guess it could be warranted, but some of that blame should be placed on the players as well.

To put this all in perspective think about this fact from the table. Fulham have only one more loss this season than Arsenal and Chelsea who are currently third and fourth in the league. That is not bad for a team that is currently sitting in the relegation zone. It also tells me they are not far off from turning it around.

Where will Fulham be by the end of the season? This is a bold prediction, but I am still thinking top 10 or possibly as low as seventh. I have a feeling when Fulham are at full strength, games that would have been draws will become victories.

Manager Mark Hughes I believe still could be a huge asset to the future of Fulham. I just think he needs more time to prove himself.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:15:19 AM
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/4135/4/fulham-become-latest-club-rule-out-loan-bid-beckham? (http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/4135/4/fulham-become-latest-club-rule-out-loan-bid-beckham?)

Fulham become latest club to rule out loan bid for Beckham

Fulham manager Mark Hughes has ruled out a loan move for David Beckham in the January transfer window.

Speculation linking LA Galaxy midfielder Beckham with a move to the Premier League during the MLS close-season has been rife in recent weeks.

And, as a Londoner himself, it has been rumoured that the former England captain may be open to a return to the capital.

But Hughes insists he will not be bringing Beckham to Craven Cottage in the New Year.

"I know David Beckham personally but I have not had that conversation with him," said the Fulham manager.

"I'm sure as always he will have a clear plan set out for the next 12-18 months and I don't think it will include Fulham."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:16:21 AM
http://www.soccerway.com/news/2010/December/30/hughes-keen-to-rattle-spurs/? (http://www.soccerway.com/news/2010/December/30/hughes-keen-to-rattle-spurs/?)

Hughes keen to rattle Spurs

Mark Hughes has been involved in professional football for 30 years but this season is like no other as his Fulham side struggle for survival.

Tuesday's win over Stoke was enough to appease the fans but the west London club are still in the relegation zone.

The experienced Welshman knows full well the importance of a win on Saturday against Tottenham.

"We are among a group of teams at the bottom and there are not a lot of points that separate us and one win could take someone up to 11th in the league, that's how tight it is, I have never known a year like it," Hughes said.

Fulham fans have afforded Hughes more time after that 2-0 win over Stoke and a win over Harry Redknapp's men would convince them further.

"We've had a couple of games in quick succession and you always worry that it will have a negative effect on players," he said.

"Apart from a few bumps and bruises after a tough game with Stoke everyone has come through ok, which is a bonus."

"We've even had good news on Mousa Dembele, he is looking good. He won't be ready for the weekend but he has a good chance of playing against West Brom in midweek."

The absence of strikers Dembele, Bobby Zamora (broken leg) and Andrew Johnson (various) has affected Fulham's season dramatically especially when the team has such a solid defensive unit.

"I think we have done fine, I think that we have underachieved in some games when we have not been able to convert draws into wins and that is what has held us back."

"Scoring is our problem and that is obvious to everybody."

"Defensively we are decent, I don't think there a lot of teams that have got a record like ours but we have not scored enough goals and we haven't been in enough situations to score goals."

One man who is in goal-scoring form is Tottenham winger Gareth Bale and it comes as no surprise to Hughes to see his fellow Welshman playing so well.

"Everyone was aware of the talent that he had as a youngster but he is not a kid anymore. Now he has filled out and is a strong man and you see that in his play and you can see him taking his career on to the next level," Hughes said.

Fulham have no new injury changes but goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer will be playing his last game before leaving for the Asian Cup with Australia, for what could be a month-long absence.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:17:39 AM
http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/hughes-heaps-praise-as-deputy-steps-up-1141168.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/hughes-heaps-praise-as-deputy-steps-up-1141168.html?)

Hughes heaps praise as deputy steps up

Mark Hughes believes David Stockdale can do more than just keep Mark Schwarzer's gloves warm during the next month.

The Fulham manager is backing the 25-year-old keeper to rekindle his international prospects while he steps in for the Australian star in January.

Schwarzer is away with his country for the duration of the Asia Cup and Hughes is not banking on him returning early, but belives that Stockdale can cope.

Hughes said: "David got near to an England squad and probably would have been in - and we've got to hope he makes a similar impression.

"He did really well when he came in at the beginning of the season - and there's no reason why he can't do the same.

"Ideally for us, it would be good if Australia got knocked in the group stages of the Asia Cup - but that's not going to happen looking at their group."

Australia are in a group with South Korea, India and Bahrain.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:19:13 AM
http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_6623594,00.html? (http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_6623594,00.html?)

FULHAM BOSS HUGHES STAYS POSITIVE

Barclays Prem Relegation 10/11 Relegation: Fulham 11/4
Mark Hughes is convinced that he can silence his critics by dragging Fulham up the Barclays Premier League table in 2011.

The Welshman has found life tough at Fulham since his appointment and his side will start the new year in the relegation zone after winning just three of their opening 19 league games so far.

The picture at Craven Cottage could not have been more different 12 months ago when, under Roy Hodgson, the west Londoners were ninth in the league and had just qualified for the knockout stages of the Europa League.

Despite last week's 2-0 win at Stoke, Fulham remain serious relegation candidates but under-pressure Hughes is sure that the Cottagers will have a better second half of the season - and his managerial record suggests that he may well be right.

Throughout his five seasons in club management, Hughes' sides have always won more matches in the second half of the season than the first.

That, Hughes insists, means Fulham stand a good chance of climbing the division next year.

"We are obviously frustrated because of the situation we find ourselves in at the moment, but the second half is likely to give us more enjoyment and success than the first half," Hughes said.

"The frustration we felt in the first half will disappear, we'll get players back and we'll kick on in the second half of the season because invariably teams that are managed by me are stronger in the second half of the season.

"We are more than capable of really kicking on next year."

Fulham's problems this year have stemmed from a lack of goals. Unable to call upon the help of last year's top scorer Bobby Zamora for most of this season, the Cottagers have the third worst scoring record in the league having only found the net only 19 times.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:20:31 AM
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/12/jingle-bells-jingle-bells/? (http://hammyend.com/index.php/2010/12/jingle-bells-jingle-bells/?)

Jingle bells, jingle bells....
by TOR on DECEMBER 30, 2010

Stoke. It's one of those fabled places in footballing lore. It's not a particularly pleasant place to go at the best of times, but on a cold, damp, foggy December day there were plenty of other things I'd much rather have done. I made the trip up back in September for the League Cup game, which considering the scoreline and the injury to Moussa Dembélé, wasn't one of the highlights of 2010 so I was loathe to return anyway, but following the quite frankly disastrous attempt to get to Liverpool on the 18th (and spending a total of 17 ½ hours on the coach – longer than it took to get to Hamburg in May) I was in a small state of flux. Do I... Don't I...?

I did. Accompanied by Gatesy and his homemade brownies, I made it up there with no huge dramas other than a lack of coffee. The Britannia Stadium always strikes me as a reasonably sensible stadium. It's a decent layout and I've been lucky enough to get decent seats whenever I go meaning I get a good view of the match which, as a short person, is always a bonus, plus they sell Mini Oreos. Top marks there. Nil points for the tea though, apparently.

I rarely check the starting line-up on the internets, preferring to watch the warm-up and play Guess Who. It's much more entertaining, especially with the cold weather and the extra layers. Kagisho Dikgacoi clearly isn't a fan of the English winters. It looked at those Etuhu was going to start which, if I'm honest, came as a bit of a surprise after his little whoopsy against West Ham and Sparky's no-nonsense attitude to dropping players if they mess up. But what's this? Chris Baird starting? At left back in place of Carlos Salcido? Crikey, we really do need to find some decent cover for that position don't we? Oh well, it's Stoke, it's away from home, what do we really expect to take away from here? (Nothing bad about Bairdy, incidentally, I think he's excellent but I do worry about players playing out of position)

A quarter of a tub of Mini Oreos later, the game kicks off. Then, all of a sudden, up the other end of the pitch, Baird strikes. There was a slight pause as the travelling fans stood up to work out whether or not the ball had gone in the net and then, all of sudden, a roar of realisation. We were leading after 4 minutes. That'll never last, everyone thought. Then five minutes later, the referee awarded a free kick to Fulham just outside the area. Baird shoots, he scores. What a blinder. And we were leading by two goals. Away from home.

The next 35 minutes passed in a bit of a blur. The Stoke fans were baying for Murphy's blood, there was clearly a lot of passion on the pitch and the referee made some interesting decisions. Half time came and went with no confirmation of any other half-time scores, and a slight mix-up on the music for the dance troupe waiting patiently in front of the dugouts. The second half was more of the same, only foggier. On more than one occasion I turned to Gatesy and told him I'd never go to Stoke again, such was the moaning and the booing from the fans. The Fulham faithful repeatedly craned their necks to check the time on the screen to the right of the stand. 30 minutes left.... 25 minutes left... The tension was unbearable and there were times I actually couldn't watch what was happening on the pitch.

Then, with 85 minutes on the clock, the travelling fans start making their way to the front of the stands singing Christmas songs.... Oh no, hang on, the words are different. "Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.... oh what fun it is to see Fulham win away". Shirts come off and there was the most brilliant party atmosphere. In our end anyway – the other stands were emptying rapidly. The Fourth Official indicates a minimum of four – FOUR! – added minutes. That can't be good, I thought, refusing to get too caught up in the festival in front of me. Then finally the ref blows his whistle. Relief. And we'd won. For the first time in 27 games, we'd scored 3 points away from home. What's more, the goals were brilliant and we damn well deserved it.

There are times, mostly when I look at my frankly terrifying purchase history on fulhamfc.com, when I question why I follow Fulham away given our record. Then there are times such as on Tuesday when it all makes perfect sense.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:21:35 AM
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6625492,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6625492,00.html?)

Hughes upbeat for New Year
Fulham boss looking forward to trip to Tottenham

Mark Hughes is confident Fulham will enjoy a more positive second half to the season and is not worrying about the threat of relegation.

Fulham have struggled during the first half of the campaign and sit in the drop zone after winning just three of their opening 19 Premier League games.

Tuesday's 2-0 success at Stoke City was a first away from home in the league since August 2009 and helped to lift some of the pressure on Hughes' shoulders.

Hughes, who replaced Roy Hodgson as manager in the summer, acknowledged the frustration of his opening months in charge, but is feeling upbeat heading into the New Year.

Frustrated

"We are obviously frustrated because of the situation we find ourselves in at the moment, but the second half is likely to give us more enjoyment and success than the first half," said Hughes.

"The frustration we felt in the first half will disappear, we'll get players back and we'll kick on in the second half of the season because invariably teams that are managed by me are stronger in the second half of the season.

"We are more than capable of really kicking on next year."

Fulham face a London derby at title-chasing Tottenham Hotspur on New Year's Day and Hughes wants his team to repeat the performance put in at Stoke.

He added: "The win over Stoke lifted the sense of frustration that we were feeling.

"It was a great team performance and there were some huge individual performances.

"We showed strength of mind to see the game out and we have to replicate that against Tottenham.

"It won't be easy because they are absolutely flying at the moment but the performance against Stoke was exactly what I was looking for in terms of attitude and application and if we repeat that then we can make it difficult to overcome any team."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:23:00 AM
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6625538,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11681_6625538,00.html?)

Dembele boost for Fulham
Zamora also stepping up recovery from broken leg

Fulham boss Mark Hughes is hoping Moussa Dembele will be fit for next week's game with West Bromwich Albion.

Dembele has been sidelined since the middle of November with an ankle injury and has not featured during Fulham's Christmas programme.

The Belgian striker is unlikely to return for the New Year's Day derby at Tottenham Hotspur,but could be in contention for the visit of West Brom next midweek.

"We've have some good news on Moussa Dembele," Hughes told the club's official website. "He looks better than he has done for a number of weeks so we're hopeful.

"He may not be ready for the weekend but we're hopeful for the West Brom game next Tuesday."

Personality

Hughes also confirmed that Bobby Zamora,who has been out since September with a broken leg, is ready to take the next step in his recovery process.

He added: "Bobby is stepping up his training. We hope to involve him in warm-ups at some point next week. That's the next part of his rehab and his progress is going well.

"We're going to keep him in and around the group now. Along with his ability as a player his personality has been missed.

"It will be the end of January or the start of February before he is available for selection. The sooner we get him back the better."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:24:12 AM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342875/Aston-Villa-Fulham-lead-chase-wantaway-Blackburn-defender-Chris-Samba.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342875/Aston-Villa-Fulham-lead-chase-wantaway-Blackburn-defender-Chris-Samba.html?)

Aston Villa and Fulham lead chase for wantaway Blackburn defender Chris Samba

Aston Villa are competing with Fulham for Blackburn defender Chris Samba and Cluj's giant striker Lacina Traore.

Samba, 25, is seen by manager Gerard Houllier as someone who can give greater physical presence to his squad and that would be enhanced further by 6ft 8ins tall Traore, 20, who is ready to move to England in a £3m deal.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342875/Aston-Villa-Fulham-lead-chase-wantaway-Blackburn-defender-Chris-Samba.html#ixzz19fxVIuv6 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1342875/Aston-Villa-Fulham-lead-chase-wantaway-Blackburn-defender-Chris-Samba.html#ixzz19fxVIuv6)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:25:20 AM
http://www.afrikansoccer.com/2010/12/paintsil-talks-up-steady-fulham-progress/? (http://www.afrikansoccer.com/2010/12/paintsil-talks-up-steady-fulham-progress/?)

Paintsil talks up steady Fulham progress

Defender John Paintsil says there's great spirit inside the Fulham camp after their victory at Stoke City.

The Ghana international has managed to crawl his way back into first team action in recent games for the Cottagers after a shaky start under manager Mark Hughes.

The win over Stoke on Tuesday- Fulham's first away win this season represents the steady rise of confidence within the London-club just as the right-back reiterated.

"It was really important to get that away win against Stoke," Pantsil told the club's official website.

"That has lifted the spirit because Stoke are a really tough side to beat. They're big boys and they're tough.

.
"It was a good atmosphere afterwards driving back to London. We didn't even think about the long journey back, we were just happy with the victory.

"We were very professional on Tuesday and fought hard whilst playing good football. To play Stoke and beat them at the Britannia, you have to be stronger than them. If not they will beat you and frustrate you.

"We were tactically disciplined on the pitch and everyone did really well. When we do our jobs the team game takes care of itself. What we have to do now is continue that form on Saturday against Spurs."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 08:28:38 AM
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/football_focus/9327504.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/football_focus/9327504.stm)

Lawro's prediction
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/50611000/gif/_50611942_tott_ful_0506.gif)

Tottenham v Fulham
Going by their last couple of games, Tottenham will definitely win if they have a man sent off!

Seriously, though, teams are coming to White Hart Lane and trying to stifle Spurs by man-marking their danger men. It is those sort of tactics that Liverpool are having such problems dealing with but the north Londoners have got such rich attacking talent that they are a lot more difficult to stop.

The other thing about Tottenham is that manager Harry Redknapp can always change their approach using his bench too. I still believe they have got the best attacking options in the Premier League because of the players they can start with, or bring on.

Fulham scored twice to beat Stoke this week, which was a good win, but I still do not think they pose enough of a threat up front at the moment.

Prediction: 2-0
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:38:28 AM
http://salutsunderland.com/2010/12/house-of-the-rising-sunderland-fan-who-also-likes-fulham/? (http://salutsunderland.com/2010/12/house-of-the-rising-sunderland-fan-who-also-likes-fulham/?)

House of the Rising Sunderland fan (who also likes Fulham)

(http://salutsunderland.com/files/2010/12/animals.jpg)

Another slice of Salut! Sunderland nostalgia with apologies to those for whom it is all a bit familiar, Many years ago, when I was writing about Sunderland celebrity supporters for Down South, branch magazine of the London & Southern England SAFSA, the chance arose to interview Alan Price. I had discovered that despite his later association with Fulham, and what I assumed were the Mag allegiances of the Animals, Alan had grown up a devoted SAFC fan. His reminiscences were repeated here a few years ago but are worth repeating because the Salut! Sunderland audience these days far exceeds the combined readerships of Wear Down South and this site in earlier days ...
First published during the bad though not quite disastrous 2001-2002 campaign (the 19-point disaster was a season later)
Good though the Animals were as a Sixties band, I had always assumed they were a bunch of Mags.
"Oh Lord," comes the thundering response from Alan Price at the very thought. "Please don't let me be misunderstood.
And so Wear Down South found itself listening to the story of a Sunderland supporter, if no longer through and through (more of that later) then at least of impeccable origins.
It was an interview that took me to the suburban London house of the man responsible for one of the two most familiar organ solos – I'd put it alongside Procol Harum's Whiter Shade of Pale, but please feel free to tell me I've got it wrong – in British pop.
Meet Alan Price.
Let's start with a warning. Readers of a sensitive disposition, if they wish to avoid the offensive material that follows, are advised to avert their eyes.
Those made of sterner stuff should put themselves in the place of one Michael Ackerman, from the German town of Wuppertal.
Back in the early 1990s, Michael, a devoted Alan Price fan, was racking his brains for something to mark his hero's 50th birthday. Aware of the North East's passion for football, he hit on the brilliant idea of buying him shares in his favourite club.
So Alan, Jarrow lad and lifelong Sunderland supporter, became the bemused owner of a small stake in .. Newcastle United.
"I was too embarrassed to tell him," said Alan when he invited Wear Down South to his home in a quiet corner of south west London.
To this day, the Price household receives a steady supply of corporate junk, all the umwanted bumph from St James' Park that would make most of us reach for those nosepegs worn by the French before they could bring themselves to vote for Chirac and keep the fascist Le Pen out of the Elysée in 2002.
In fact, despite the Animals' Tyneside origins, only the late Chas Chandler was a true Mag. The other three had little or no interest in football.
Quick-witted and chatty, Alan looked a lot younger than your average rock dinosaur (he was pushing 60 when we met and will be 69 in April). He is probably better read than most of them, too, even though he also has an appealing hint of the sort of ordinariness many of his contemporaries shared but tried very hard to shed.
When I found his home, he was chewing on a modest TV dinner before the kick-off of a televised Newcastle vs Fulham game. So was Alan, like me, grudgingly hoping for a home win to keep Fulham in the relegation battle?
Not a bit of it. I was in the company of someone who not only developed a fondness for Fulham after moving south, but even joined its pre-Fayed board for a time.
Sunderland were his first love, lodged at the centre of his affections since he was taken to Roker Park as a lad of five. So as we sat in front of his television, he shared my concerns about the prospect of our demotion that season. But he also wanted Fulham to stay up, and was rooting for them as they defied Newcastle to grab a draw.
Born in Fatfield in April 1942, Alan Price has done a lot more than enjoy one outstanding showbiz career. In truth, he has moved seamlessly from one to another and then another.
A year off school with jaundice helped along his natural musical gifts. Largely self-taught, he became adept on piano, organ, guitar and bass.

By 16, he was playing skiffle and blues around the North East's clubs. The groups had names like the Pagans, the Kontours and the Black Diamonds and it was in such bands that Alan played at different times with all four of his future fellow Animals.
In 1961, he formed the Alan Price Rhythm and Blues Combo which, within a year, had brought together the Animals' original line-up: Alan and Chas, plus Eric Burdon, Hilton Valentine and John Steel. They decided on the name change (against Alan's will) after moving to the Smoke in 1964.
With Burdon's earthy vocals and Alan's great organ work, the Animals swept to No 1 on both sides of the Atlantic with one of the era's most memorable singles.
House of the Rising Sun helped establish them as the North East band to rival, if not the Beatles or the Stones, certainly the Who or Moody Blues. And more hits followed, among them Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood and I'm Crying.
But Alan became disillusioned. Exhaustion and a fear of flying were the official reasons for his departure in 1965. Beyond that, he was also suffering from wounded pride.
He felt his massive musical contribution had been taken for granted and, having accepted the band's vote to change its name, was bitterly upset when the others declined to extend the democratic process to a whipround to replace his prized Wurlitzer electric piano, stolen 10 days after he bought it.
For all Eric Burdon's charisma, and the sizeable cult following he went on to win, it was Alan who was to become easily the more successful solo artist after the break-up. I Put A Spell On You, Simon Smith And His Amazing Dancing Bear, Jarrow Song, The Trimdon Grange Explosion ... the full discography might need a Wear Down South series all of its own.
Along the way, there was a partnership with Georgie Fame, the source of some of Alan's happiest professional memories. Then came film soundtracks, musicals, a spot of acting – "they sent me to Stratford-on-Avon to try to get rid of my accent" – and, long ago, an Animals reunion.
"That was 1983," Alan told me. "I haven't seen Eric since."
It begs the obvious question. Do they really hate each other?
Alan is vague, but the answer is hardly a conclusive No. "Eric got publicity for a certain amount of time by slagging me off. But that's just how it was. No one wants to hear you are best buddies."
Alan's point is that the five Animals were "really just ships in the night", musicians who came together because they were the best around, not because they were mates. Now, they – the survivors, that is – are just "different people living different lives".
And where has SAFC slotted into this busy life? These days, he relies on TV and newspapers, or the radio when he's heading for a matchday gig.
"I have no particular desire to go to the Stadium of Light," he admitted. "I'm a Roker Park man."
He couldn't have asked for a finer introduction to the old place. It was 64 years ago when, taken by his father with his older brother, John, he made his Roker debut at a game that saw our bright new £10,000 signing, Ronnie Turnbull, score all four goals in a tonking of Portsmouth.
Tragedy struck the Price household a few months later. Alan's father, a chargehand at British Oxygen, was killed in a works accident when a cylinder blew up as he carried it to safety during an emergency.
"My dad died a hero," Alan said simply.

The family moved to Jarrow, where Alan went to grammar school. He attended games throughout his boyhood and teens, and remembers Len Shackleton's tricks, the Bank of England team and, among individual matches, a four-goal comeback against Chelsea in 1955. This was some feat; Fulham's other small club had won the championship only the previous season.
"I used to go by train, get off at Seaburn and buy liquorice root at the chemist on my way to the ground," he said.
He loved the Roker Roar and the huge crowds. He remembers with less pleasure the historic relegation, our first from the top flight, in 1958.
The rot had set in, he thinks, with the illegal payments scandal that led in 1957 to a damning Football League
Commission report and sanctions (later overturned, but the damage was done). "I'm sure it was happening everywhere," Alan said. "But it was Sunderland who paid the price.
"I screamed when we went down. We hadn't won the league since 1936, the cup since 1937, but we had never played out of the top division and it was the one thing you'd been able to hang on to."
Since leaving the North East, Alan has seen only occasional Sunderland games. He flew back from working in Los Angeles for the 1973 FA Cup Final. To most people, it was a fairytale, but Alan had predicted the outcome. On TV with Jack Charlton, he'd said we would win 1-0 while Jackie insisted that we had no chance.
That night, at the West End victory banquet, Shack and Jackie Milburn danced (with their wives, not each other; Shack would surely not have invited a Mag on to the floor) as Alan sang his heart out for the Lads.
Later, he rang his brother. John, sadly no longer with us, who had watched the game nervously at home. "You know," he told Alan, "my behind was nipping the buttons off the sofa." Hands up those WDS readers who practised their own button-nipping technique as they read that.
After Alan's biggest solo hit, Jarrow Song, the telly people took him back to make a documentary about his roots. At Shack's home, then on the seafront at Roker, he was taken up to the loft.
"He opened a chest and tossed an England shirt at me, saying 'do you want one of these? They never did me any good'."
Shack later recommended Alan to Ernie Clay, then Fulham's chairman. "He came up at a match and said 'Len tells me you like football. Would you like to be a director?'.
"I had asked about the possibility of joining the Sunderland board, and was told that it would cost £100,000 as they owned the freehold of Roker Park. I joined the Fulham board for a third of that. I wasn't rich enough for Sunderland, but was poor enough for Fulham."
That spell in the boardroom changed Alan's outlook. He had never been one for tribal rivalries. He recalls schooldays when the boys were equally split between red and whites and black and whites "with the odd Berwick Rangers fan in between", and is happy when NUFC and Boro are there as well as us in the top flight.
"I still get excited about football, and think of Sunderland as the team of my family. But I'm not as obsessive as I used to be. Once you get inside a club as I did, you become not blasé or cynical but more intelligent about your emotions."

It is hard to do justice to the Alan Price story, even in a couple of thousand words. At the time of our interview, he was still performs regularly, 50-plus concerts a year. The hits are included but his band is no jaded nostalgia act.
Back in 2002, soon after our meeting, I missed the London supporters' branch social evening after West Ham away (ruining my hopes of letting the Lads, popping in on their way home from Upton Park, know how much I'd enjoyed watching them being walloped 3-0) and went instead to the South Bank for Alan's superb 60th birthday concert. So good I almost forgot the afternoon horror show.
Herr Ackerman was at the show, too. Needless to say, he hadn't come empty-handed from Germany.
"True to form," said Alan, "now that I'm teetotal, he brought me a bottle of Scotch."
* I have tried to amend any time-sensitive references but bear in mind this was originally written in 2002. When I updated the piece in 2007, there was no fairytale reconversion to report. He still hadn't been lured to the Stadium of Light. Although I suggested to SAFC that Alan should be invited to the Sol and made a fuss of, Niall Quinn pointed out that he had said in the interview he had no particular wish to visit. I still think his arm could be twisted but maybe but we shall never know.


Read more: http://salutsunderland.com/2010/12/house-of-the-rising-sunderland-fan-who-also-likes-fulham/#ixzz19gVI32ED (http://salutsunderland.com/2010/12/house-of-the-rising-sunderland-fan-who-also-likes-fulham/#ixzz19gVI32ED)
Join FootballUnited.com for Real Fans & Real News
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:40:24 AM
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/48005/tottenham-vs-fulham/preview (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/match/48005/tottenham-vs-fulham/preview)

Tottenham - Fulham Preview: Kaboul joins Defoe on suspensions list ahead of London derby

TEAM NEWS

Tottenham
Younes Kaboul's red card against Newcastle United on Tuesday means he joins Jermain Defoe among Tottenham's suspended players, so Harry Redknapp will either call on Sebastien Bassong or hope William Gallas has overcome an injury in time to play.

Jermaine Jenas may be preferred to Wilson Palacios, while Tom Huddlestone, Jonathan Woodgate and Jamie O'Hara are still short of fitness.

Possible Starting XI: Gomes; Hutton, Dawson, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto; Lennon, Jenas, Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart; Crouch.

Fulham
Chris Baird's double against Stoke could see him retain his place in the side after surprisingly replacing Carlos Salcido on Tuesday.

Bobby Zamora and Moussa Dembele are still out of contention meanwhile, though the Belgian could return against West Brom, meaning Andrew Johnson is likely to continue in attack, with Clint Dempsey playing a supporting role.

Possible Staring XI: Schwarzer; Pantsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Baird; Davies, Murphy, Etuhu, Duff; Dempsey; Andrew Johnson.

Top four test

Tottenham are having their top four credentials tested to the limit over a busy festive period, but as the games come thick and fast, Harry Redknapp's side have thus far passed with flying colours, having won two physical games in three days, against Aston Villa and Newcastle United.

Spurs have hit top form at the right time – it is now 10 games in all competitions since Redknapp's men tasted defeat – and it is now vital for the club to carry such a run of results into the New Year if they are to maintain their Champions League charge.

Annual festive meeting

It just wouldn't be the winter months without a meeting between Spurs and Fulham – two of their last six meetings have taken place on Boxing Day, while this fixture last season saw Tottenham run out 2-1 winners in January.

Fulham have fared more disappointingly heading towards the New Year, with their 3-1 defeat at home against fellow strugglers West Ham a low point that saw them condemned to the bottom three of the Premier League.

There were signs of a revival for Mark Hughes on Tuesday though, as his side managed a rare win away from home against Stoke City, courtesy of two extremely rare Chris Baird goals.

The chances of Baird repeating such feats against Tottenham at White Hart Lane on Saturday are slim, but Hughes will be hopeful of getting a result, even if his side has seldom managed to win on the short trip to north London.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:41:43 AM
http://www.onlinecasinonews.com/ocnv2_1/article/article.asp?id=27007 (http://www.onlinecasinonews.com/ocnv2_1/article/article.asp?id=27007)

Spurs ready to welcome the Cottagers

Tomorrow will see the majority of English Premier League clubs in action and one of the most intriguing match-ups sees a London derby as Tottenham Hotspur welcomes Fulham to White Hart Lane.

Tottenham have not lost a game since November 6 and currently sit comfortably in fifth position with 33 points from 19 games. Harry Redknapp's side has already defeated title hopefuls Arsenal and Liverpool along with holding top teams Chelsea and Manchester City to draws.

SportingBet.com and Bwin.com has Spurs at odds of 6/17 to defeat Fulham tomorrow afternoon while Coral.co.uk is going for 4/11.

The previous meeting between these two sides at Craven Cottage in mid-October saw Tottenham controversially run out the winner by two goals to one and WilliamHill.com, BetFred.com, Bet365.com, Unibet.com, BlueSq.com, ExtraBet.com, SkyBet.com, VictorChandler.com, BoyleSports.com, Bodog.com, 888Sport.com, ToteSport.com and StanJames.com are showing odds of 2/5 on a similar result on Saturday.

At the far end of the spectrum, Betfair.com, BetDaq.com and WBX.com list odds of 21/50 on Tottenham emerging from tomorrow afternoon's contest victorious while punters can get 3/7 at 32RedBet.com and 4/9 with PaddyPower.com.

With 19 points from the same number of games, Fulham sits uncomfortably just inside the relegation zone although the side did record its first away win in the league in 27 attempts on Tuesday after defeating Stoke by two goals to nil.

BetFred.com has Fulham at odds of 11/2 to defeat Tottenham on Saturday followed by ToteSport.com showing 6/1 and Unibet.com, ExtraBet.com, BlueSq.com and 888Sport.com with 13/2.

First-term manager Mark Hughes is under pressure to emulate the success enjoyed by predecessor Roy Hodgson and two victories in a row could go a long way towards silencing the Welshman's critics. Bodog.com, WilliamHill.com, VictorChandler.com, PaddyPower.com, SportingBet.com, SkyBet.com and StanJames.com has the Cottagers at odds of 7/1 to win away from home for the second time this season while bet365.com, WBX.com and Bwin.com list 15/2 before BoyleSports.com, Betfair.com, Coral.co.uk, 32RedBet.com and BetDaq.com with 8/1.

Considering their lowly league position, a draw would be a good result for Fulham and BetFred.com currently shows odds of 3/1 that Saturday's encounter will finish honours-even.

Slightly longer, PaddyPower.com, ExtraBet.com, 888Sport.com, SportingBet.com, BoyleSports.com and BlueSq.com are offering odds of 16/5 on a draw before ToteSport.com, VictorChandler.com and Bodog.com with 10/3 and Unibet.com listing 57/17.

At the far end of the spectrum, bettors can get odds of 7/2 at Bwin.com, bet365.com, WilliamHill.com, StanJames.com, SkyBet.com and Coral.co.uk on tomorrow's match finishing in a tie while 32RedBet.com, WBX.com, BetDaq.com and Betfair.com are going with 37/10.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:42:57 AM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/BodogComp.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/BodogComp.aspx?)

Be A VIP With Bodog

WATCH THE FA CUP IN STYLE WITH BODOG!

Bodog, Fulham's official betting and gaming partner, are giving away two pairs of VIP tickets to see Fulham's FA Cup 3rd Round Tie at Craven Cottage on Saturday 8th January (Kick-Off 3pm).

For a chance to win, simply sign up to Bodog now!

Here's how to enter*:

1. Sign Up and Deposit £10 or more
2. Place a bet of £10 or more on any Premier League or NFL game
3. Receive one entry in to the prize draw for one of two pairs of VIP tickets
That's not all, to give yourself every chance of winning; Bodog will give you an additional entry in to the prize draw for every qualifying bet placed between now and the 3rd of January.

Already a member? Login in here or Sign Up Now!


*Terms and Conditions

• The VIP Fulham Ticket prize draw competition is open from 00:01 GMT on the 31st December 2010 until 23:59 GMT on the 3rd January ("qualifying period").

• To enter the prize draw, new customers must sign up to Bodog .co.uk, deposit and place a bet of £10 or more on a Premier League or NFL game during the qualifying period ("qualifying bet").

• Existing customers are also eligible to receive an entry in to the prize draw by placing a qualifying bet during the qualifying period.

• New and existing customers will also receive an additional entry in to the prize draw for every additional qualifying bet placed during the qualifying period.

• The winners will be drawn at random on Tuesday 4th January. The winners will be notified by telephone.

• Two Winners will each receive one pair of VIP tickets to the Fulham vs Peterborough FA Cup match on 8th January (the "Prize").

• The Prize consists of a pair of VIP tickets only. The Winner must pay for their own travel, accommodation and all other expenses incidental to or relating to the Prize.

• Winner will have until 13:00 (GMT) on Wednesday 5th January to claim the Prize.

• The Prize is non-transferable and non-redeemable for cash. If a Winner is unable to take up the Prize for whatever reason, an alternative Winner will be chosen. By accepting the Prize, the Winner agrees to their name being published on the bodog.co.uk website and to carry out any reasonable publicity requests of bodog.co.uk in connection with the winning of the Prize.

• You are solely responsible for complying with any booking or other conditions or instructions of Fulham FC or any other relevant third party in relation to the Prize. www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk) shall have no liability in relation to the performance or non-performance of any service provided by Fulham FC or any other any relevant third party, which shall be the sole responsibility of Fulham FC or relevant third party, or for the failure by you to comply with any eligibility restrictions or otherwise imposed by Fulham FC or any other relevant third party.

• No representations, warranties, conditions or other terms are made, given or accepted by www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk) and no other terms shall apply, as between www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk) and any person, in relation to the Prize, including without limitation any terms as to suitably, reliability, satisfactory quality or fitness for purpose, or any other implied terms, all of which www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk) exclude to the maximum extent permitted by law.

• Except that we do not exclude or limit our liability for personal injury or death caused by our negligence or for fraudulent misrepresentation or any other liability that may not, by law, be limited or excluded, www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk) accepts no liability whatsoever and however arising in relation to your use (or inability to use) the Prize, to the maximum extent permitted by law.

• Entrants must be aged 18 or over.

• By entering this prize draw, you hereby warrant that all information submitted by you is true, correct and complete.

• The general rules and policies of www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk) found at www.bodog.co.uk/bodog-help.html (http://www.bodog.co.uk/bodog-help.html) shall also apply to this prize draw.

• www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk) has the right to cancel or withdraw the prize draw or change any of its terms at any time and without cause or notice.

• This prize draw is designed for recreational accounts only and will be attributed accordingly. Any accounts deemed to be non-recreational or attempting to abuse the nature of this prize draw will be voided without hesitation. www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk)'s decision in this regard will be final.

• www.bodog.co.uk (http://www.bodog.co.uk) is the sole arbiter of this prize draw and its decision is final and binding.

• New customers will also be entitled to the £25 Free Bet sign up bonus subject to the terms and conditions of that offer found at http://www.bodog.co.uk/bonuses/25-in-free-bets.html. (http://www.bodog.co.uk/bonuses/25-in-free-bets.html.)

• If you have any questions regarding the prize draw, please contact [email protected].



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/BodogComp.aspx?#ixzz19gWSSwm3 (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/BodogComp.aspx?#ixzz19gWSSwm3)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:44:24 AM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1343009/Tottenham-v-FULHAM-Moussa-Dembele-expected-miss-London-derby.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1343009/Tottenham-v-FULHAM-Moussa-Dembele-expected-miss-London-derby.html?)

Tottenham v FULHAM: Moussa Dembele expected to miss London derby

Fulham striker Moussa Dembele is likely to miss out on Saturday's Barclays Premier League match at Tottenham as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury.

Dembele has missed the last seven weeks with the knock but Cottagers boss Mark Hughes is confident that the striker will return for the January 4 match against West Brom.

Mark Schwarzer will play his last game before flying out to the Asian Cup with Australia while Fulham will be without long-term absentees Matthew Briggs (calf), Bobby Zamora (leg) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles).

Team (from): Schwarzer, Kelly, Salcido, Hughes, Baird, Hangeland, Halliche, Duff, Dempsey, Murphy, Davies, Gera, Etuhu, A Johnson, E Johnson, Stockdale, Pantsil, Kamara, Greening, Dikgacoi.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1343009/Tottenham-v-FULHAM-Moussa-Dembele-expected-miss-London-derby.html#ixzz19gWjFRDh (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1343009/Tottenham-v-FULHAM-Moussa-Dembele-expected-miss-London-derby.html#ixzz19gWjFRDh)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:45:25 AM
http://www.football365.co.za/story/0,22162,14287_6626063,00.html? (http://www.football365.co.za/story/0,22162,14287_6626063,00.html?)

Spurs out for Fulham scalp

Tottenham will look to start 2011 on a high note by reclaiming their spot in the Premier League top four when they host Fulham at White Hart Lane on New Year's Day.

Harry Redknapp's side have enjoyed a prosperous festive period so far, securing a Boxing Day victory at Aston Villa before ousting Newcastle at home in midweek.

Chelsea's home triumph over Bolton on Wednesday saw the Blues dislodge Spurs from their brief stay in fourth place, but the reigning champions are only a point ahead of their London rivals and the tables could easily turn again this weekend.

Spurs will be keen to carry this season's form into the new calendar year, having established themselves as title contenders with just four defeats from their 19 league games played.

It is a different story for lowly Fulham, however, who have a different mission on their hands as they look to break out of the bottom three and pull clear of the drop zone.

Mark Hughes' men have struggled during the first half of the campaign, winning just three of their opening 19 encounters.

But one of those victories came this week when they sprung a surprise 2-0 triumph at Stoke courtesy of an unexpected brace from Chris Baird, and the Cottagers will be buoyed by that result as they head across the capital.

While Hughes will be hoping Tuesday's win will prove the turning point of Fulham's season, they are likely to face a tough test against in-form Tottenham.

The stats are not in the Cottagers favour, having won just one of their last 12 games in all competitions against Spurs, as well as scoring only one goal in their last six Premier League visits to the north Londoners.

However, an apparent chink in Spurs' armour appears to have surfaced over the festive period, with lax discipline leading to them having a man sent off in their last two league games.

Redknapp expressed his irritation after Jermain Defoe saw red at Villa before Younes Kaboul was handed his marching orders against Newcastle, and his side will be desperate to keep all 11 men on the pitch this weekend.

The manager will be without both Defoe and Kaboul for Saturday's clash after the pair were handed three-match bans for their respective red cards.

Kaboul's absence gives Redknapp a selection headache in central defence, with William Gallas unlikely to feature due to a hamstring injury.

Tom Huddlestone is also expected to miss the clash due to an ankle knock, while Jonathan Woodgate and Jamie O'Hara are absentees.

Fulham are likely to be missing Moussa Dembele as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury.

The striker has missed the last seven weeks with the knock but Hughes expects him to return for the January 4th clash against West Brom.

Mark Schwarzer will play his last game before flying out to the Asian Cup with Australia while Fulham will be without long-term absentees Matthew Briggs (calf), Bobby Zamora (leg) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles).

Possible starting XIs:

Tottenham: Gomes, Hutton, Dawson, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Jenas, Modric, Bale, Van der Vaart, Crouch.

Fulham: Schwarzer, Pantsil, Hughes, Hangeland, Baird, Davies, Murphy, Etuhu, Duff, Dempsey, Andrew Johnson.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:46:30 AM
http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2010/1231/tottenham_fulham.html? (http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2010/1231/tottenham_fulham.html?)

Tottenham v Fulham

Fulham striker Moussa Dembele is likely to miss out on Saturday's Barclays Premier League match at Tottenham as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury.

Dembele has missed the last seven weeks with the knock but Cottagers boss Mark Hughes is confident that the striker will return for the January 4 match against West Brom.
Mark Schwarzer will play his last game before flying out to the Asian Cup with Australia while Fulham will be without long-term absentees Matthew Briggs (calf), Bobby Zamora (leg) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles).

Fulham team from: Schwarzer, Kelly, Salcido, Hughes, Baird, Hangeland, Halliche, Duff, Dempsey, Murphy, Davies, Gera, Etuhu, A Johnson, E Johnson, Stockdale, Pantsil, Kamara, Greening, Dikgacoi.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:47:38 AM
http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/12/tottenham-hotspur-v-fulham-cottagers-hope-to-avoid-new-year-spanking.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29 (http://articles.squarefootball.net/squarefootball/2010/12/tottenham-hotspur-v-fulham-cottagers-hope-to-avoid-new-year-spanking.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Squarefootball+%28Squarefootball%29)

Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham: Cottagers hope to avoid New Year spanking

Spurs have taken maximum points from their festive fixtures and you'd have to be a diehard Fulham fan to bet against them making it nine out of nine on New Year's Day. The visitors have won at White Hart Lane only twice since the end of the Second World War – the last win came in 2003 – and have only scored there once in their past six league clashes. It has home win written all over it but Mark Hughes will be buoyed by his team's display at Stoke in midweek.

Fulham were expected to leave the Britannia empty-handed on Tuesday but they sprung a huge shock by beating the Potters 2-0. That was enough to lift the Cottagers out of the bottom three and buy the under-fire Welshman some crucial time. Unfortunately Wigan's point against the Arsenal in midweek saw them drop back in and they couldn't have faced a worse fixture for the start of 2011 than Spurs as Harry Redknapp's men are on fire just now.

Tottenham have lost only once at home all season while Fulham seek to record back-to-back away wins for the first time in 20 months. This should be comfortable for the hosts. The Panel certainly thinks it will.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:48:56 AM
http://www.hamhigh.co.uk:80/premier-league/tottenham-hotspur/tottenham_v_fulham_it_s_another_winter_of_discontent_for_mark_hughes_1_763494? (http://www.hamhigh.co.uk:80/premier-league/tottenham-hotspur/tottenham_v_fulham_it_s_another_winter_of_discontent_for_mark_hughes_1_763494?)

Tottenham v Fulham: It's another winter of discontent for Mark Hughes

THE TURN of the year is always a nervous time for managers of under-performing clubs as they wait to discover whether they will be allowed to spend their owner's money in January.

Of course, Mark Hughes knows this better than anyone – it was in December last year that he got the boot at Manchester City, just days after a 3-0 defeat at Spurs.

Twelve months on, the 47-year-old has probably endured another difficult Christmas as he attempts to hold onto his current post on the Thames.

A 3-1 home defeat against West Ham on Boxing Day left Fulham in the relegation zone and, although they rallied to secure their first away win of the season at Stoke earlier this week, they are just four points off the bottom at the end of 2010.

This is an unexpected problem for the Cottagers, who have become a comfortable mid-table side in recent years.

Indeed, just seven months ago the club were celebrating one of the greatest achievements in their history as they contested the Europa League final against Atletico Madrid, only losing in extra-time.

Paul Konchesky departed for Liverpool in the summer but the only other major change in personnel was Roy Hodgson's exit, giving Hughes few excuses for a rapid decline in fortunes.

Having held onto the likes of Mark Schwarzer, Brede Hangeland, Danny Murphy and Bobby Zamora, Fulham were expected to be battling in the top half of the table again this campaign.

The reality has been disappointingly different and the Cottagers have won just three of their top-flight fixtures.

Fulham recently matched a Premier League record by posting 10 draws in their first 17 league games – a theme which was established in Hughes' first game in charge, a goalless draw at Bolton.

The Cottagers have certainly not been awful and, along with Arsenal and Manchester City, they have the best defensive record in the league away from home, having shipped just nine on the road.

However, goals have been a problem, particularly since Zamora has been out of action with a broken leg since September.

Andrew Johnson returned from his own injury nightmare in October, having spent nine months in the treatment room, but he is yet to find the net in 10 appearances since his return, and his last goal came 16 months ago, in August 2009.

These are mitigating circumstances for Hughes, who is understandably anxious to bolster his striking options in January, having relied upon Clint Dempsey for goals so far this season.

The American has done his bit, scoring five in the league, but that is a meagre tally for the leading goalscorer – and when defender Chris Baird scored twice in the 2-0 win at Stoke on Tuesday, he became the joint second leading scorer in the league.

The verdict: Fulham have secured five draws from their nine away days this season and are tough to break down on the road.

Their win at the Britannia Stadium this week will give them confidence as they travel to Tottenham, but the Lilywhites should have the quality to pick up another three points at home.

Prediction: Spurs 2 Fulham 0
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 10:49:57 AM
http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/cottagers-ace-to-miss-his-spurs-1141440.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/cottagers-ace-to-miss-his-spurs-1141440.html?)

Cottagers ace to miss his Spurs


Moussa Dembele will again be missing for Fulham's Craven Cottage clash with Tottenham on New Year's Day due to an ankle injury.

The Belgium international striker has been missing since the middle of November due to the problem, with his absence causing a huge headache for boss Mark Hughes given that fellow hitman Bobby Zamora is also out until around February as he recovers from a broken leg.

And, while Dembele is not ready to line up against Spurs, there is some hope that he will finally return on Tuesday for the game against West Bromwich Albion.

"We've have some good news on Moussa Dembele," Hughes told the club's official website. "He looks better than he has done for a number of weeks so we're hopeful.

"He may not be ready for the weekend but we're hopeful for the West Brom game next Tuesday."

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer will play his last game before flying out to the Asian Cup with Australia, while Zamora is joined by other long-term absentees Matthew Briggs and Philippe Senderos due to respective calf and Achilles problems.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:21:40 PM
http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/spurs-clash-too-soon-for-dembele-1141440.html? (http://www.eatsleepsport.com/fulham/spurs-clash-too-soon-for-dembele-1141440.html?)

Spurs clash too soon for Dembele

Moussa Dembele will again be missing for Fulham's Craven Cottage clash with Tottenham on New Year's Day due to an ankle injury.

The Belgium international striker has been missing since the middle of November due to the problem, with his absence causing a huge headache for boss Mark Hughes given that fellow hitman Bobby Zamora is also out until around February as he recovers from a broken leg.

And, while Dembele is not ready to line up against Spurs, there is some hope that he will finally return on Tuesday for the game against West Bromwich Albion.

"We've have some good news on Moussa Dembele," Hughes told the club's official website. "He looks better than he has done for a number of weeks so we're hopeful.

"He may not be ready for the weekend but we're hopeful for the West Brom game next Tuesday."

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer will play his last game before flying out to the Asian Cup with Australia, while Zamora is joined by other long-term absentees Matthew Briggs and Philippe Senderos due to respective calf and Achilles problems.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:22:40 PM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226318 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226318)

Fulham - Stoor Set to Leave!
It probably comes as no surprise to learn that Fulham and their Swedish full back, Fredrik Stoor, looks set to part company!

Stoor, signed in 2008, hasn`t been the rip-roaring success we`d all hoped he`d be and has yet to start to a Premier League match for Fulham.

His most recent action, last season, saw him go on loan to Derby County.

At the present there are no indications as to where Stoor will be heading but we`d like to wish him well and will cover any possible rumours relating to his future.


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226318#ixzz19hAcpjaM (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226318#ixzz19hAcpjaM)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:23:37 PM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226319 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226319)

Fulham - Hughes on Bothroyd Gossip!
Yesterday we ran an article whereby we pointed out that the tabloid press were linking us with the Cardiff striker, Jay Bothroyd.

Naturally, with Mark Hughes having worked with the lad whilst both were at Blackburn Rovers together, the tabloid hacks were not going to miss an opportunity to ask Mark about the speculation at his pre-match press conference for the Spurs fixture.

Mark, to his credit, remained coy giving very little away except remarking,

"He has certainly matured a lot from the time I was with him there."

It remains to be seen whether any reported interest is anything other than newspaper gossip!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226319#ixzz19hAsBDKy (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226319#ixzz19hAsBDKy)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:24:31 PM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226320 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226320)

Fulham - Nineteen?
We enter the New Year in a something of a predicament.

We finished 2010 having played 19 games of the current season, amassing 19 points and scoring 19 goals but lurking, in the relegation zone, in 18th place.

All this after an unbeaten start to the season where we drew more games than we should have, it certainly has been a crazy season a point Mark Hughes touched on in the build up to our 20th game of the season - Spurs away.

This is what Sparky had to say,

"I have never known a season like it."

"You look at the league and I think teams up to 11th position, which is 22 points, down to the bottom, are in potential relegation danger."

"From our point of view we would like to think we`ve had our bad run. Maybe other teams haven`t quite hit that spell and that`s ahead of them."

"I`m sure a lot of other clubs, particularly with the results this week, will be looking over their shoulders. It will be a really interesting finish to the season."

Anyone else prepared to settle for mid-table mediocrity at this stage?


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226320#ixzz19hB5bDpz (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=226320#ixzz19hB5bDpz)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:25:35 PM
http://www.teamtalk.com/match/preview/978/6626186/Tottenham-v-Fulham-preview? (http://www.teamtalk.com/match/preview/978/6626186/Tottenham-v-Fulham-preview?)

Tottenham v Fulham preview

Team news for Saturday afternoon's Premier League clash between Tottenham and Fulham at White Hart Lane.

William Gallas is set to make a timely return to the Spurs side for the game against the Cottagers.

The defender, who had been skippering the side, has missed the last three and a half weeks with a hamstring strain and should replace Younes Kaboul, who starts a three-match ban.

Jermain Defoe is also suspended, Robbie Keane (hamstring) is doubtful, Carlo Cudicini is out with a shoulder problem, while Tom Huddlestone (ankle), Ledley King (groin), Jamie O'Hara (back) and Jonathan Woodgate (groin) remain sidelined.

Fulham striker Moussa Dembele is likely to miss the game at Spurs as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury.

Dembele has missed the last seven weeks with the knock but Cottagers boss Mark Hughes is confident that the striker will return for the January 4 match against West Brom.

Mark Schwarzer will play his last game before flying out to the Asian Cup with Australia while Fulham will be without long-term absentees Matthew Briggs (calf), Bobby Zamora (leg) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles).

Tottenham (from): Gomes, Pletikosa, Hutton, Corluka, Dawson, Gallas, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Sandro, Palacios, Jenas, Bale, Lennon, Bentley, Modric, Dos Santos, Van der Vaart, Crouch, Pavlyuchenko, Keane.

Fulham (from): Schwarzer, Kelly, Salcido, Hughes, Baird, Hangeland, Halliche, Duff, Dempsey, Murphy, Davies, Gera, Etuhu, A Johnson, E Johnson, Stockdale, Pantsil, Kamara, Greening, Dikgacoi.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:30:33 PM
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/31122010/58/premier-league-matchpack-tottenham-v-fulham.html? (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/31122010/58/premier-league-matchpack-tottenham-v-fulham.html?)

Premier League - Matchpack: Tottenham v Fulham

All the facts, figures and a video preview ahead of Fulham's visit to White Hart Lane to face Tottenham Hotspur.

TEAM NEWS:
Fulham striker Moussa Dembele is likely to miss out on Saturday's match at Tottenham as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury. Mark Schwarzer will play his last game before flying out to the Asian Cup with Australia while Fulham will be without long-term absentees Matthew Briggs (calf), Bobby Zamora (leg) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles).

FACTS:
Fulham have only won one of the last 12 matches in all competitions against Tottenham.

Fulham have scored only one goal in their last six Premier League visits to White Hart Lane.

Fulham have won just three of their 44 Premier League London derbies away from home and none of the last 33.

Roman Pavlyuchenko has scored in his last two appearances against Fulham, once in the league and once in the FA Cup.

Three of Tom Huddlestone's seven Premier League goals have come against Fulham.

Last time out against Newcastle, Spurs kept their first clean sheet since the opening day of the season in the Premier League.

Spurs have had a man sent off in their last two Premier League games, having not had a man dismissed prior to Christmas this season.

In their last match against Stoke, Fulham ended a run of 26 Premier League away matches without a win.

Fulham's last three league goals have all been scored by Northern Irish defenders in the opening 11 minutes of games.

37% of Fulham's Premier League goals this season have been headers, the highest proportion in the competition
Opta / Eurosport
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:31:49 PM
http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/12/the_good_the_bad_and_the_ugly.php? (http://blogs.soccernet.com/fulham/archives/2010/12/the_good_the_bad_and_the_ugly.php?)

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Yes folks, it's that time of year when editors get frivolous and allow the hacks to spin out their highs and lows of 2010. We're no different.

From 2010 I guarantee nobody in the Fulham camp predicted the rise and fall in club fortunes over the past year. Last Christmas saw us basking in a 3-0 demolition of Manchester United with enough points on the board at the mid-point in the season to laugh off any suggestions of relegation. Bobby was building his reputation week on week to the point where England recognition became compelling, and while Roy maintained an ultra-conservative approach to away matches, we were a very tough nut to crack at home.

Into January we picked up injuries to Clint and BZ that saw us putting out a makeshift side for a while and at the Lane by the end of Jan we were poor on a freezing night. Spurs this New Year's Day will be tougher still - the big difference this time around, Fulham now sit in the bottom three. And who would have predicted that at year's end after the euphoria of the Europa League run? Had we lost at Stoke we would now be rock bottom!

But there's no sentiment in football. It's a school of hard knocks where rewards are great but the spectre of failure is often only the width of a crossbar away. Has Hughes just been an unlucky manager with his last two teams or is he really not up to the mark? Despite that outrageous win at Stoke we soon find ourselves back in the relegation places - indeed of the two holiday fixtures to date the West Ham debacle was far more significant, indicative of a team that has lost its way. We remain a toothless tiger up front, with no evidence Hughes can reverse the downward spiral for a few more weeks yet.

Inspired signings quickly are crucial. And they need to make an immediate impact, which mitigates against the introduction of players new to the Premier League. All in all, the pressures on Mark to keep his job beyond 3rd round FA Cup day remain immense.

So what would be your highs and lows from the past 12 months? Without stating the obvious, give us a different slant on the Europa League campaign. I can't imagine it was easy following the nights of high drama at the Cottage against Shakhtar, Juve and the Germans during normal U.S. office hours for a start!

One final thought before the club start throwing money around in a panic. If there aint much quality out there, let's get creative with loan signings. Jamie O'Hara for starters (if fit) or Matt Taylor. If we've £2 million to spare lure Charlie Adam down from Blackpool to run midfield, I'm sure he can be tempted away from Holloway's rigid wage structure.

And talking of Blackpool - the board please take note. In the last year of published figures the Tangerines laid out £45,000 in agents fees, Fulham £2.2 million (and they call us a 'little club').
Tell the sharks to get lost...it can be done.

COYW - a point v Spurs at least please!
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:34:00 PM
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11679_6623438,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11679_6623438,00.html?)

Titanic tussle

Harry Redknapp's insistence that Tottenham can challenge for the title may not have convinced everyone yet but his side have enjoyed a fine festive period so far, beating Aston Villa and Newcastle despite having a man sent off in both games to stay in touch with the leading pack. Next up for Spurs is a London derby at home to Fulham, who won only their third league game of the season at Stoke on Tuesday but remain in the bottom three.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:35:24 PM
http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/SpursPreview.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/SpursPreview.aspx?)

New Year's Derby
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Management/Hughes/HughesStokeVictory.jpg)

Following Tuesday night's impressive 2-0 victory over Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium, Fulham travel across the Capital on Saturday afternoon to challenge Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane (KO 3pm).

Manager Mark Hughes is relishing the challenge of tackling high-flying Spurs, a team he regards as one of the most impressive attacking outfits in the Premier League.

"Tottenham in full flow are as dynamic as any team in the Premier League at this moment in time," Hughes told fulhamfc.com. "Harry [Redknapp] has always advocated attacking football, committing players forward and most people enjoy watching his teams play.

"I like Harry and I like his company. He's a football man and he enjoys his work and he's created a fantastic team at Tottenham. He's getting the rewards for a long time in management and he's now got a team that has a real chance to win things."

Redknapp has a vast array of world class attacking players at his disposal this term, including the irrepressible Gareth Bale, and Hughes is well aware of the danger the winger and his teammates will pose on Saturday.

"He's [Bale] come on leaps and bounds," said Hughes. "Everyone was aware of the talent he had as a young kid and now he's filled out and playing with experience. Every step of his progression is accomplished and he keeps moving up to the next level. I'm sure his Club is delighted with the progress he has made in such a short space of time and if he continues in the same vein there's no saying what level he could reach.

"We've got to make sure we do certain things correctly on Saturday. He's [Bale] the type of player that if you allow him time and space then he'll hurt you. You've got to try and stop that happening and we've got keep his influence to a minimum if we can. The problem with that is if you focus too much on one player Tottenham have a number of players in other areas that can exploit any lack of focus in their areas.

"You can't keep everyone quiet for the entire 90 minutes so what you have to make sure is that the momentum of the game isn't relentless and you can break things up and ask questions of them as well. It can be quite open and there can be opportunities to exploit in a wide, open game against Tottenham. What you have to make sure is that you nullify the attacking threat that they pose."

Hughes will be looking for his Team to continue where they left off at the Britannia Stadium when Saturday's 3pm kick-off gets underway and Fulham's Manager is confident his side will soon be climbing the Barclays Premier League table.

"Usually you get teams tailing off, or teams running away with the Premier League title, but that hasn't happened this year," Hughes explained."It's going to be a really interesting finish to the season and there will be a lot of twists and turns as to where each team will finish in the League.

"From our point of view we've got to make sure we continue to be really competitive and if we do that we'll pick up points and move up the table. We feel very confident in that respect."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/SpursPreview.aspx?#ixzz19hDs5oNL (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2010/December/SpursPreview.aspx?#ixzz19hDs5oNL)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 01:38:11 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1343041/TOTTENHAM-v-Fulham-William-Gallas-suspended-Younes-Kaboul.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1343041/TOTTENHAM-v-Fulham-William-Gallas-suspended-Younes-Kaboul.html?)

TOTTENHAM v Fulham: William Gallas to fill in for suspended Younes Kaboul

William Gallas is set to make a timely return to the Tottenham side for the Barclays Premier League clash with Fulham.

The defender, who had been skippering the side, has missed the last three and a half weeks with a hamstring strain and should replace Younes Kaboul, who starts a three-match ban.

Jermain Defoe is also suspended, Robbie Keane (hamstring) is doubtful, Carlo Cudicini is out with a shoulder problem, while Tom Huddlestone (ankle), Ledley King (groin), Jamie O'Hara (back) and Jonathan Woodgate (groin) remain sidelined.

Provisional squad: Gomes, Pletikosa, Hutton, Corluka, Dawson, Gallas, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Sandro, Palacios, Jenas, Bale, Lennon, Bentley, Modric, Dos Santos, Van der Vaart, Crouch, Pavlyuchenko, Keane.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1343041/TOTTENHAM-v-Fulham-William-Gallas-suspended-Younes-Kaboul.html#ixzz19hERPhQP (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1343041/TOTTENHAM-v-Fulham-William-Gallas-suspended-Younes-Kaboul.html#ixzz19hERPhQP)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 02:55:51 PM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/matchprere.asp?a=226354 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/matchprere.asp?a=226354)

Spurs v Fulham Preview!
Having finally laid that Premier League away-day hoodoo to rest, with a great 2-0 win at Stoke the last time out; Fulham are faced with an awkward away trip, on New Years Day, to face high-flying Tottenham Hotspur. Can Mark Hughes men make it two away victories on the trot?

Vital Quotes:
Looking back on the recent away victory at Stoke, Mark Hughes had a few recollections that he hopes will serve his team in good stead for the forthcoming trip to Spurs, when he remarked to the media,

"I was really pleased with what the players produced."

"I think everybody saw that it was a fully committed team and a group of players who were desperate to win."

"They showed everything we`ve been trying to instill in the team from the outset. We weren`t to be denied."

"It takes time but it was really pleasing, the manner of the performance, and the determination of the players to get the job done."

"I feel really close to the players now and I feel we have a lot more to come."

More of the same again then please lads!

Spurs Team News:
Harry Redknapp enters this fixture without the suspended Kaboul after the defender received a straight red card in his last outing. On the injured list are Carlo Cudicini, Tom Huddlestone, Ledley King and Jamie O`Hara whilst Robbie Keane is rated as doubtful.

Also suspended is Jermain Defoe who is serving a two game ban for a recent red card offence.

Player to watch: Gareth Bale
Currently the tabloid press hero of the decade. Blessed with outstanding pace and a decent finish, Bale has worked out that if he kicks the ball past an opponent his sheer pace allows him to get free. Simple but effective!

Fulham Team News:
Mark Hughes squad will have been buoyed by the away win at Stoke; however, we`re, thanks to other results, still loitering in the bottom three as we enter a new year. Back in August I doubt that this scenario would have been in the script but we have to accept it is a situation we can get ourselves out of, even if the squad is suffering from injuries that seriously affect our cutting edge.

Definitely out are Bobby Zamora and Philippe Senderos whilst doubts exist about whether Moussa Dembele will have shaken off his recent knock. Unless he has, and unless we`ve picke dup the odd minor knock or two at the Britannia Stadium, we suggest that Mark Hughes will go with the same eleven that did us so proud in winning 2-0!

Player to watch: Danny Murphy
Our former Spurs player will be desperate to put on a good show at his old stomping ground. It`d be great if he could score!

Match Facts & Stats
Fulham go to White Hart Lane with a poor record. We`ve only won once there since 1948 and that came in August 2003 when we won 3-0.

The record since 1948 reads Spurs 18 wins, Fulham 1 win and 7 draws.

Since that win in 2003 we`ve lost every game at White Hart Lane and scored only once!

Match Prediction:
Winning at Stoke, the last time out, after 500 days without an away win in the Premier League, was a great feeling, but can we make it two away wins on the tort at White Hart Lane? My heart tells me yes, but don`t we always have that supreme vein of optimism pumping blood around after such a win? Sadly my head tells me no! But if I were to be optimistic I`d suggest we might get a draw this time out!

Next Fixtures:
With the games coming thick and fast at this time of the year, we welcome West Bromwich Albion to Craven Cottage on for our first home game of the New Year, on 5th January.



Vital Broadcasting talks to Clive Tyldesley!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/matchprere.asp?a=226354#ixzz19hXuBRP6 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/matchprere.asp?a=226354#ixzz19hXuBRP6)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 02:56:43 PM
http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/12/31/gallas_back_for_fulham_clash? (http://sport.virginmedia.com/football/article/2010/12/31/gallas_back_for_fulham_clash?)

Gallas back for Fulham clash
William Gallas is set to make a timely return to the Tottenham side for the Barclays Premier League clash with Fulham.

The defender, who had been skippering the side, has missed the last three and a half weeks with a hamstring strain and should replace Younes Kaboul, who starts a three-match ban.

Jermain Defoe is also suspended, Robbie Keane (hamstring) is doubtful and Carlo Cudicini is out with a shoulder problem while Tom Huddlestone (ankle), Ledley King (groin), Jamie O'Hara (back) and Jonathan Woodgate (groin) remain sidelined.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 03:00:31 PM
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9326764.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/9326764.stm)

BBC: Tottenham v Fulham

Barclays Premier League
Venue: White Hart Lane Date: Saturday, 1 January Kick-off: 1500 GMT
Coverage: Watch highlights on Match of the Day; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and BBC London; text commentary on BBC Sport website and mobiles

TEAM NEWS
Tottenham defender Younes Kaboul begins a three-match suspension as a result of his red card for clashing heads with Newcastle's Cheik Tiote.

William Gallas makes a timely return from a hamstring strain, but Robbie Keane is a doubt with a similar injury.

Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer will play his last game before flying out to the Asian Cup to represent Australia.

Forward Mousa Dembele is nearing a return after a seven-week absence with an ankle injury.

Tottenham
Suspended: Defoe (two matches), Kaboul (three matches)
Doubtful: Keane (hamstring)
Injured: Cudicini (shoulder), Huddlestone (ankle), King (groin), O'Hara (back)

Fulham
Doubtful: Dembele (ankle)
Injured: Briggs & Senderos (both calf), Stoor (groin), Zamora (leg)

MATCH PREVIEW
Having won with 10 men for the second successive match following Younes Kaboul's red card for butting a Newcastle opponent, Tottenham now have a head-to-head in their favour.

They have only lost once in 63 years at home to Fulham and ended the west London side's unbeaten start in the league in October.

Tottenham's recent form has fuelled talk of a title challenge, and anything must feel possible at White Hart Lane these days. Conversely, Fulham begin the year in the bottom three and there were question marks over the future of manager Mark Hughes following the home defeat by West Ham on Boxing Day.

Fulham's subsequent victory at Stoke - their first away win since the opening day of last season - was as deserved as it was unexpected, with Chris Baird scoring his first goals since March 2007. Hughes described the performance as immense; for once, Fulham looked good in khaki.

They displayed a resilience in that game that has been a trademark of Tottenham's performances over the festive period. With their mix of perspiration and inspiration, it is little wonder that Spurs' title odds have shrunk to 20-1.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
• Tottenham's only home defeat by Fulham in 26 league and cup meetings since 1948 was a 3-0 Premier League reverse in August 2003 (W18, D7, L1).
• Fulham are winless in six subsequent league visits to White Hart Lane, scoring only once in that sequence.
• Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has won his last four league matches against Fulham counterpart Mark Hughes. In total, they have six wins each from 13 Premier League meetings.

Tottenham
• Spurs have won their last three New Year's Day fixtures at White Hart Lane since losing 2-1 to Coventry in 1994.
• They are unbeaten in their last eight league matches (W5, D3). If they avoid defeat on Saturday it will be their longest streak without defeat since a nine-match run ended in March 1999.
• Tottenham are the first top-flight club since Southampton in 1998 to have won two successive league games despite having a player sent off in both.
• Harry Redknapp's side have gained 16 points from losing positions this season - by far the best record in the division.

Fulham
• Fulham won their first Premier League away game in 27 attempts at Stoke on 28 December.
• They are vying for back-to-back league wins for the first time in 11 months.
• The Cottagers have failed to win any of their last 33 away matches in London since beating Tottenham in August 2003.
• Mark Hughes's side have dropped 13 points from winning positions, more than any other club in the division.
• Fulham's Simon Davies, Stephen Kelly and Danny Murphy are all former Tottenham players.

LEADING GOALSCORERS

Tottenham
Van der Vaart: 10 goals (8 league); Bale: 10 goals (6 league)

Fulham
Dempsey: 6 goals (5 league)

MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Michael Jones
Assistant referees: Will Smallwood & Glenn Turner
Fourth official: Mike Russell

LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
Tottenham (W2-0 v Newcastle, h): Gomes; Hutton, Dawson, Kaboul, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Palacios (Jenas 46), Modric, Bale, Pavlyuchenko (Bassong 66), Van der Vaart (Crouch 72). Subs not used: Pletikosa, Keane, Kranjcar, Corluka.

Fulham (W2-0 v Stoke, a): Schwarzer; Pantsil, Hangeland, Hughes, Baird, Davies, Murphy, Etuhu, Duff, Dempsey, A Johnson. Subs not used: Stockdale, Salcido, Gera, Kamara, Dikgacoi, Greening, Halliche.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 03:03:17 PM
http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/2010/12/premiership/forget-lawro-heres-the-premiership-predictions (http://www.footballtransfertavern.com/2010/12/premiership/forget-lawro-heres-the-premiership-predictions)

FORGET LAWRO – HERE'S THE PREMIERSHIP PREDICTIONS
Tottenham v Fulham


The last two end of year games between these two have been dull affairs. This year Spurs will strut out knowing that they are unbeaten at home and Fulham have only won twice this term. Spurs fans will be looking for an avalanche of goals. Fulham fans would be delighted with a draw.

Prediction 2-0
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 03:24:31 PM
http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/4154/5/hughes-hints-riise-exit-fulham (http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/4154/5/hughes-hints-riise-exit-fulham)

Hughes hints at Riise exit from Fulham

(http://www.talksport.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/ts_news_article_header_image/Bjorn%20Helge%20Riise.jpg)

Mark Hughes has refused to offer Fulham outcast Bjorn Helge Riise any first-team assurances, hinting at an impending exit for the midfielder.

The Norwegian international has made just two appearances for Fulham this season, both coming from the substitute's bench and Hughes puts the versatility of his other players down to the midfielder's lack of action

"Bjorn has been really unfortunate that we have a number of players that can play in a number of different positions," Hughes said.

"Clint Dempsey and Zoltan Gera can both play in wide positions and upfront so, unfortunately, Bjorn has been a victim of our rotation and the flexibility I have in some players.

"They also have more game time under their belts and that is why I lean more to those players more than Bjorn."

The younger brother of former Liverpool defender John Arne, Riise made 12 league appearances under Roy Hodgson last season and has openly stated that he will not wait around for much longer

"It is frustrating for him and I have had a number of chats with him, he is a great professional and conducts himself in an exemplary manner," Hughes said.

"I understand his frustration, I would like to think their will be more opportunities for him in the second half of the season, as I have told him, but I can't guarantee it."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 04:13:18 PM
http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/12/31/tottenham-v-fulham-preview-difficult-to-improve-squad-says-h/? (http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2010/12/31/tottenham-v-fulham-preview-difficult-to-improve-squad-says-h/?)

Tottenham v Fulham Preview: 'Difficult' to Improve Squad, Says Harry Redknapp

Tottenham have every right to feel supremely confident going into this match. The Christmas period has so far seen them rewarded with six points from two games - despite suffering red cards in both those matches against Newcastle and Aston Villa.

Those two victories have moved them up to fifth in the table and they show no signs of the type of wobble that has hit rivals Manchester United and Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Fulham go into this match in an unfamiliar position, having finally won a Premier League game away from home.

Victory at Stoke got an unwelcome monkey off Mark Hughes's back and he has prepared his players in the same way this time looking for a repeat performance.

Key Match-up: Gareth Bale v John Pantsil There is no question that Bale has been the most impressive and consistent performer in the Premier League in 2010. His development from left back to left midfielder has seen him flourish and added goals to his game. His pace is his main asset but he can also cross the ball and Fulham will need to be wary. Trying to stop Bale will be Pantsil. The defender has won back his place in Hughes's side after initially failing to impress his new manager. This will be his toughest test since his return to the side and all eyes will be on how he copes.

Form Guide: Spurs are undefeated in their last ten games and are in an excellent run of form. Goals have not been a problem for Harry Redknapp's side with Aaron Lennon, Bale, Rafael van der Vaart and Roman Pavlyuchenko on target in recent weeks. Fulham's win at Stoke was their first in 16 games and goals have been a problem. The Cottagers lost the reverse of this fixture 2-1 in October. Tom Huddlestone's controversial strike was the winner.

Odds: Tottenham 2/5, Fulham 15/2, Draw 7/2

TOTTENHAM HOTSTPUR:
Redknapp believes his team is one of five competing for four Champions League places – and believes Spurs' recent form suggests they will end the season celebrating rather than wondering about what-ifs.

They are on a ten-game unbeaten run in all competitions ahead of the Fulham clash and managed to win their last two Premier League fixtures with a man short.

Redknapp concedes keeping up that sort of form will be tough, but he said: "It looks to me that there are now five teams pushing for the Champions League places and we are right in among that.

"It is where we want to be – we want to be up there and challenging to get in the Champions League and even higher if we can.

"I don't think the pressure is any problem to us. Winning a championship is very, very difficult, but we are there and it is the most open Premier League for years – the results over the last few days show that."

Redknapp added he is on the lookout for additions to his squad in the January window, but would not be spending money just for the sake of it.

He said: "If the right player was there, if there was someone who can make a difference to the team then we would be interested.

"But it is very difficult to find that sort of player. Anybody who has anybody who is top class doesn't want to sell him. It is very difficult to improve your squad and we are not in a position where we need to panic buy."

Strategy: Redknapp will adopt the same formation that saw them through Wednesday's game against Newcastle, after the relatively diminutive midfield of Luka Modric and Wilson Palacios dealt with the physical approach Alan Pardew's side excellently. They are likely to be up against more of the same in Dickson Etuhu and Danny Murphy.

Injury update: Robbie Keane is doubtful for a place on the bench with a hamstring strain, while Younes Kaboul starts his three-match ban for his sending off against Newcastle. Jermain Defoe is two games into a three-game ban.

FULHAM:
Hughes says he is relatively happy with the progress he has made - but insists the second half of the campaign will be stronger.

He told a media conference: "I think for the best part of it we have done fine. In some cases we have underperformed in terms of not converting draws into wins.

"That has left us frustrated and that's what has held us back but we feel that with the rub of the green we could have added more games to our win tally.

"A point a game is not quite what we wanted but we have 19 more games to go and I'm confident that we will surpass the total we have from the first 19 in the second-half of the season. From that point of view we know what we have to do and we are confident about the challenge ahead."

Hughes is clear where he needs his players to improve - with their goalscoring - and is looking forward to having key men back.

He added: "That's where our problems lie. Defensively we are decent. We have conceded something like 23 goals and there are not that many teams in the Premier League that have conceded less, so we are good defensively but we are hampered by the fact that we haven't scored enough goals.

"That's what has held us back. We want to welcome back Bobby Zamora and Mousa Dembele as soon as we can. Bobby is stepping up his training. We hope to involve him only in warm ups to get him involved in the group sometime next week."

Strategy: It is difficult to see why Hughes would want to change a winning formula. He certainly did not want to make any changes during the match at Stoke. He is likely to opt for a 4-4-2 system with goal-shy Andy Johnson and Clint Dempsey leading his attack. Murphy and Etuhu will hold the midfield with Damien Duff and Simon Davies on the flanks.

Injury Update: Zamora (broken leg) and Philippe Senderos (Achilles) are both long-term injuries.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 04:14:25 PM
http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/6627058/Hughes-challenge-for-Stockdale? (http://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/6627058/Hughes-challenge-for-Stockdale?)

Hughes challenge for Stockdale

Fulham manager Mark Hughes has challenged David Stockdale to put himself back in the England frame during Mark Schwarzer's upcoming absence.

Schwarzer will play his last game for the Cottagers against Tottenham at White Hart Lane on Saturday before departing for Qatar, where he will represent Australia in the Asian Cup.

The 38-year-old, who recently committed his future to the club despite interest from Arsenal, could be missing until the start of February if, as expected, the Socceroos reach the final stages of the tournament.

That leaves Stockdale with another chance to impress after he filled in admirably for the Australian while he was injured at the start of the season.

Stockdale was pencilled in for a surprise call-up for England's Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland in September after four excellent performances which included a man-of-the-match debut against Bolton and a penalty save in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United.

An ankle injury denied him that chance but Hughes believes the former Darlington stopper can put himself back in the international reckoning with some more good performances, starting with Tuesday's game against West Brom.

"Obviously it's a big loss losing Mark but David did really well when he came in at the beginning of the season and there's no reason he can't do exactly the same again," said Hughes, who will rely on 20-year-old Neil Etheridge as back-up for Stockdale in January.

"He did really well and obviously got near to an England squad.

"If it weren't for the injury he probably would have been in it.

"He made a real impression. Obviously with Mark's presence absent we have to hope that he makes a similar impression.

"There's no reason why he can't because he's been training well.

"We were aware this period was coming up and he's ready for it."

Fulham go into the game at Spurs having ended their eight-match winless run with a 2-0 triumph at Stoke that also ended the club's 16-month wait for an away victory.

Hughes admits his side, who are 18th in the table, must go on a run in order to quickly move away from the relegation zone.

Crucial to their chances of success at Spurs will be how they handle the threat of Gareth Bale, the Wales winger who Hughes thinks can go on to become one of the best players in the world.

"I think he has come on leaps and bounds," said Hughes of the 21-year-old.

"Everyone was aware of the talent he had as a kid.

"Every step of his progression is accomplished and it doesn't faze him.

"He keeps on going up to the next level. The impact he has had has been fantastic and I'm sure that the club will be delighted with the progress that he has made in such a short space of time.

"If he keeps going then there is no saying what level he could reach."

Bale forms a key part of a ruthless dynamic attacking formation employed by Spurs manager Harry Redknapp which has already seen off the likes of Arsenal, Inter Milan and Werder Bremen this year.

Hughes is full of admiration for his London rivals, who are fifth in the table, and expects them to challenge for the title this year.

"Spurs in full flow are as dynamic as any team now," the Welshman said.

"They will take some stopping and they have the chance to push on this year and if they really have the belief, and I'm sure they have, then they could go very close this year."

The former Blackburn boss hopes Spurs' eagerness to attack will leave his side with plenty of chances to hit them on the break.

Hughes continued: "From an opposition manager's point of view games against Harry's teams can be quite open and they leave opportunities to exploit."
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 04:16:48 PM
http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/31/fulham-v-west-brom-tickets-up-for-grabs-82029-27915015/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/31/fulham-v-west-brom-tickets-up-for-grabs-82029-27915015/?)

Fulham v West Brom tickets up for grabs!

FANCY watching Fulham take on West Brom for FREE on Tuesday January 4?

EA SPORTS, the Official Sports Technology Partner of the Premier League, has teamed up with Trinity Mirror Southern to offer one lucky reader a pair of tickets to your team's next Barclays Premier League Match. The winner will also receive a copy of FIFA 11.

EA SPORTS is the proud sponsor of the Premier League Player Performance Index. The EA SPORTS Player Performance Index is the Barclay Premier League's official statistical index of all 20 Barclays Premier League teams.

The EA SPORTS Team of the Week will be available at www.premierleague.com (http://www.premierleague.com) after each round of the Barclays Premier League. The team will be based on ratings from the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index.

To stand a chance of winning, simply answer the following question:

What is the name of West Brom's manager?

To enter, visit our Facebook page, click 'like' and post your answer underneath the competition.Closing date for entries is midday on Monday, January 3. Winners will be notified within 24 hours. Normal competition rules apply.



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/31/fulham-v-west-brom-tickets-up-for-grabs-82029-27915015/?#ixzz19hsUpTSq (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2010/12/31/fulham-v-west-brom-tickets-up-for-grabs-82029-27915015/?#ixzz19hsUpTSq)
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 04:17:58 PM
http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/harry-expects-fulham-test-311210.html? (http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/harry-expects-fulham-test-311210.html?)

Harry expects Fulham test

Harry Redknapp is expecting to meet a rejuvenated Fulham side at the Lane on New Year's Day.

The manager feels Mark Hughes' side will take a huge shot of confidence from their 2-0 win at Stoke on Tuesday.

The victory at one of the toughest away grounds in the Premier League represented an end to a sequence of eight matches without a win for the Cottagers.

However, they arrive in N17 with us on an unbeaten run of 10 matches in all competitions.

"The players have been fantastic and we're on a great run," said Harry.

"It looks to me now that there are five teams - no disrespect to the other teams - who will be pushing for the Champions League places and we're right in amongst that.

"It's where we want to be, up there challenging to get back into the Champions League next season.

"Fulham had a great result earlier in the week and it will be a tough game for us.

"They went to Stoke and produced a great win. That looked more like their regular team, the team that looked so strong last season with the likes of Andy Johnson back.

"Mark Hughes has done well wherever he's been. He did well at Blackburn, Manchester City and he will do well at Fulham, for sure.

"But we're doing well and we want to keep that going.

"If we manage to beat Fulham it will be a great week for us (two wins out of two so far in t he festive period) and that keeps us right up there."

A reminder that we kick-off at 3pm.
Title: Re: Friday Fulham Stuff (31/12/10)...
Post by: WhiteJC on December 31, 2010, 04:19:57 PM
http://www.sportingpreview.com/columns/1011019910.php? (http://www.sportingpreview.com/columns/1011019910.php?)

THE ANDY GRAY COLUMN
SATURDAY'S PREMIER LEAGUE 3.00pm KICK-OFFS

There were big changes at both ends of the table after the last two rounds of matches over the festive period.

And given that the grind continues for another few days, I get the feeling the next couple of games will be as much a test of stamina and strength of the different squads as it will be of pure footballing ability. Here's hoping this column doesn't run out of steam after a few mince pies and a couple of glasses of wine over Christmas...

Andy's predictions for Saturday's 3pm kick-offs...

Tottenham v Fulham
Spurs are on a roll whilst Fulham are consistently inconsistent; I can't see the home side dropping points in this match having played so well in recent weeks.
Recommended Bets: Back Tottenham to win at 1.48; 2-0 at 7.8