Friends of Fulham

Fulham leap to front of Sidwell queue

Published 23:59 06/01/11


By James Nursey - EXCLUSIVE


(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/match-centre/article546379.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/.jpeg)

Fulham are set to pip relegation rivals West Ham to steal Steve Sidwell.

Sidwell, 28, leaves Aston Villa this month as the Midlands club seeks to cut their £70million wage bill.

He has already held talks with bottom club West Ham, where he had a medical, and has since discussed going to struggling Wolves on loan.

Sidwell was even in the crowd at Molineux on Wednesday as Wolves beat Chelsea 1-0.

But the star has decided against staying in the Midlands as his family home is in south-west London. And Fulham are now firm favourites to sign the goal-scoring midfielder on a knock-down deal.

MirrorSport revealed in June that Fulham agreed a £2million fee with Villa for Sidwell – but the move was aborted when boss Roy Hodgson left.

It has now been resurrected by successor Mark Hughes for a fraction of the cost because Sidwell's £48,000-a-week contract is up in the summer.

Sidwell cost Villa £5m in July 2008, from Chelsea, but made only 24 league starts for the club.

Meanwhile, Villa signed Spurs right-back Kyle Walker, 20, on loan until the end of the season.

Under-pressure Villa boss Gerard Houllier said: "Kyle will be a valuable addition to our defence."

Houllier has also spoken to Blackburn boss Steve Kean about bargaining for centre-back Chris Samba.



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Fulham-are-set-to-pip-relegation-rivals-West-Ham-and-West-Ham-to-Aston-Villa-midfielder-Steve-Sidwell-article665867.html#ixzz1AKX7xd2T (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Fulham-are-set-to-pip-relegation-rivals-West-Ham-and-West-Ham-to-Aston-Villa-midfielder-Steve-Sidwell-article665867.html#ixzz1AKX7xd2T)

http://thisisfutbol.com/2011/01/blogs/stick-with-hughes-and-fulham-will-soar


Stick with Hughes and Fulham will soar

Posted on Thursday, 6th January 2011


by Saad Noor

Written by Saad Noor, at Craven Cottage

In this strange season there have been a few surprise packages, the customary strange result, and then there's Fulham.

Last year's Europa League finalists have looked a shadow of their former selves and have struggled to string wins together this term.

You could point to their gruelling 63-game-season which led to former manager Roy Hodgson being named manager of the year followed by a World Cup and argue a case for exhaustion. But, out of their 25-man Premier League squad, only six played in South Africa.

Mark Hughes was deemed a smart and safe appointment by Mohamed Al-Fayed when Roy Hodgson left for pastures new at Liverpool but his season so far has been difficult to say the least.

He has been under increased pressure since the Cottagers dropped into the relegation zone after defeat by West Ham on Boxing Day but six points in the last three games have moved them out of the bottom three and transformed the mood at the club.

It seems as though Hughes had a chip on his shoulder since his harsh and abrupt sacking as Manchester City manager last season and doesn't appear to be enjoying his time at the Cottage as much as he had before.

Some Fulham fans have lost patience with the former Manchester United striker and suggest his head is elsewhere and believes he is too big for a club of Fulham's size. Fans at Craven Cottage chanted: "Hughes out!" after their embarrassing defeat to bottom club West Ham.

This analysis is callous as although Hughes is of course an ambitious manager, he is also a proud man who has done a good job wherever he has been.

While at a somewhat similar club, Blackburn Rovers, between 2004 and 2008, in his first season he led the club to an FA Cup semi-final for the first time in over 40 years and steered the club clear of their relegation worries.

In his second season, Blackburn surprised even the most optimistic supporters by finishing inside the top six of the Premier League and qualifying for the UEFA Cup, beating eventual champions Chelsea, Arsenal and doing the double over Manchester United along the way. He also took Rovers to a Carling Cup semi-final too.

To go with these successes, Hughes was also very shrewd in the transfer market with a small budget signing the likes of Benni McCarthy (£2 million), David Bentley (£500,000), Ryan Nelsen (free), Stephen Warnock (£1.5 million), Roque Santa Cruz (£3.5 million), and Christopher Samba (£400,000) for minimal transfer fees and eventually led Blackburn to a league finish of 7th in 2007–08.

So Mohamed Al-Fayed would do well to back his manager in the transfer market as he is in desperate need of a striker with a forward line waring thin due to the injury plagued Andrew Johnson, Bobby Zamora's long absence coupled with new boy Moussa Dembélé's ankle problems.

With all these injuries midfielders Clint Dempsey has been the main goal threat which has restricted the side to just 22 goals in 21 league games.

So despite his rocky start to life in West London, the fans, owners and players at Fulham would be wise to be patient with old 'Sparky' and witness him take their side to similar heights as they enjoyed last season.

After the game against West Brom, Hughes said: "Things haven't run for us but hopefully things are changing."

Judging by his track-record, he might be right and a swing in fortunes along with a few additions in January (namely a striker) Fulham could still finish the season in a respectable position.

Now that Hughes has made it to January, it is thought he'll make it to the end of the season. And if he makes it to the end of the season, he'll be around for a lot longer than that.

http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/01/gatesys-premier-league-roundup/

Gatesy's Premier League Roundup


by gatesy on January 6, 2011

Well, hasn't the world of football been busy since we last met here. As Tor has covered in her excellent away day report we did rather well up at Stoke. Though I'm not sure she stressed how awful the tea actually was. Now, I'm used to my correct views being ridiculed and people dismissing me as being nothing far short of a maniac. The fact that 'Only Fools and Horse' isn't actually very good, the fact that any food can be improved by eating it in sandwich form and that Chris Baird is a marvellous player and is far too much under rated by everybody. One of these three brings me more abuse than the others. Though it may appear the tide is turning. Slotting in at left back since the Stoke game he's looked more solid than recent previous incumbents and need I mention the brace he scored? It makes me wonder which position he's set his mind on mastering next? We're a bit shy up front and in goal at the moment, so...


One person who didn't come out of the game too well was Pulis by refusing to shake Sparky's hand after the match. Cast your mind back and you'll see our Gaffer has previous with this as when he was at City Wenger did similar. It was all over the press at the time, along with this quote.

"Arsene Wenger has made a decision not to shake Mark Hughes' hand, whether that is right or wrong you'd have to ask him. But personally, whether I like or dislike someone, you have a responsibility to show the right spirit of the game....in the spirit of the game you should still shake hands...You should shake hands, you don't have to go for a drink afterwards with them for a tittle-tattle."
Do you want to guess who said that, or do you want me to tell you? Give you a clue, he's fond of wearing baseball caps...

More recently WBA hit town and for a brief time the victory took us to 13th place, showing just how tight the table is at the moment. We haven't given a team a convincing beating at home since we beat the Baggies 6-1 a few years back. Infact it was 184 games ago and oddly enough we've scored just over a goal a game since then (185 to be exact). Carsons flappy hands helped the boys into the lead just before the break with Brede and Dempsey completing the scoring.

If you're a fan of goals from corners, The Cottage is the place to visit. With ten goals all scored from there it's the hot-spot for them. The result means that West Brom are still pointless since Christmas.

Elsewhere towards the bottom of the table West Ham were put to the sword by Newcastle and their old boss Pardew. Leon Best scored a rare hat trick and a goal a piece from Nolan and Lovenkrands completing the rout. Best's hat trick is the third one scored by a Magpie this season so far. The result takes the 'Ammers back to the foot of the table and puts all that pressure back on Grant.

Another gaffer with the axe swinging ever closer is our old mate Roy. Giving a post match press conference lasting just two minutes and refusing to talk about the future probably isn't a good sign. Then again, given Liverpool's god given right to win everything all the time, neither was losing 3-1 at Ewood Park. The static reds defense was penetrated by Olsson and twice by Mwaruwai with the reply coming from Gerrard who was only included in the team at the last minute and probably wished he wasn't after missing a penalty. His record currently standing at 6 of his last 20 being missed. A nice quote I saw after the game was that Liverpool are now "A joke without a laugh," although I have managed a few titters at them myself...

The big game last night was City's visit to Arsenal. As usual with these games it failed to live up to Skys big billing. Despite the home side hitting the woodwork twice the game ended nil nil. City rarely threatened and it showed, with this becoming their first game since December 2007 where they failed to have a shot on goal all game. Both teams managed to accumulate a red card each though with Zabaleta and Sagna being given marching orders after a little scuffle. The Arsenal players red was his second red card in just six Premier League Games. The draw helped Man Yoo consolidate at the top of the table after they beat Stoke on Tuesday night 2-1. Hernandez's opener was leveled through Dean Whitehead, with Nani scoring to ensure the reds stayed top. The game also seemed to hint that SAF now see's Smalling as his third choice centre back, being picked ahead of Johnny Evans (which always sounds like a pseudonym to me).

The biggest shock of Wednesday night was up in the Midlands with Wolves beating that lot down the road 1-0. An own goal from Bosingwa continued their awful recent run of results. It pains me to say it, but we could probably have done with the result going the other way round (may God strike me down). The only bright spot was earlier in the week when Ray Wilkins (Come back to us Ray, pleaseandthankyou) described Fat Frank as "A massive cog" leading to much sniggering at Castle Gatesy. Similar mirth was found in Mr Ancelotti's pre match prediction,

"We are not thinking about losing at Wolves. We will not lose. We will win."

How'd that work for you?

Another gaffer apparently on the verge of the sack, if you trust the press, is Villa's Houllier. This is despite the board coming out in his defense and saying his job is safe. His case wasn't helped much by their defeat against Sunderland at Villa Park. Even with the Black Cats receiving their 13th red card in 60 league games under Bruce, the Villains slipped into the relegation places. Bardsleys goal for the visitors see's them sitting pretty up in sixth.

Meanwhile, Villa Director Charles Krulak came out with something worth considering:

"If we had another three points, we would be closer to sixth"
You can't knock him, he's totally right.

Elsewhere this week, Blackpool lost at home to Brum, Bolton and Wigan sharing the points and Everton taking all three against Spuds. The Toffees opener coming from Fulham old boy Saha. Five of his last six goals have been against teams from the capital the this was the first of the season for him.

Next up for the Whites is FA Cup action when Peterborough visit the Cottage on Saturday. Meanwhile we sit 14th in the table.

http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/01/06/he-might-have-been-useful/ (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/01/06/he-might-have-been-useful/)


He might have been useful

Filed under: General — rich @ 5:38 pm

Lecce-Bari 0-1 Goal di Stefano Okaka 06/01/2011 -SkyCalcio HD- (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFqrrR5ES8c#ws)

Okaka scores on Bari debut...

http://www.fanhouse.co.uk/2011/01/06/fulham-v-peterborough-preview-waiting-game-may-be-over-for-rafi/

Fulham v Peterborough Preview: Waiting Game May Be Over for Rafik Halliche

06/1/2011 10:00 AM GMT By Mike McGrath


FA CUP: CRAVEN COTTAGE, SATURDAY JANUARY 8, 2011. KICK-OFF 1500 GMT

(http://www.blogcdn.com/www.fanhouse.co.uk/media/2011/01/rafik-halliche-6111.jpg)

Fulham manager Mark Hughes has pointed out that every manager finds himself under pressure at some tim and it was his turn in the spotlight during the Christmas fixtures.

Fans turned on Hughes after the defeat to West Ham on Boxing Day but three positive performances since mean the attention is elsewhere and the Welshman can enjoy FA Cup week and look to shape his squad for the second half of the season.

Victories over Stoke and West Brom came either side of a decent performance against Tottenham that ended in defeat at White Hart Lane, meaning Fulham are heading into their fixture against Peterborough full of confidence.

Under Roy Hodgson last year, Fulham showed they have a taste for knockout competitions after reaching the quarter-finals of the FA Cup and the final of the Europa League.

Survival is still the main goal for Hughes but a cup run would provide a welcome distraction and should could even help their league form, as it sometimes does with teams.

They have been granted what they wished for in the third round - a home tie against lower-league opposition, with Peterborough trying to upset the odds.

Key Match-up: Rafik Halliche v Craig Mackail-Smith: Halliche is yet to play for Fulham since arriving from Benfica in the summer following a World Cup where he was part of an Algeria team that frustrated England. He was on the bench against West Brom in midweek and it could be the right fixture to ease him back. Mackail-Smith will be looking to provide Posh goals following the departure of Aaron Mclean to Championship team Hull.

Form Guide: Fulham are enjoying their best spell of the season and confidence is high after six points from three games and, more importantly, reward for how well they have been performing. Peterborough are chasing promotion and have not been beaten in five games.

Odds: Fulham 2/5, Peterborough 13/2, Draw 7/2.
Tweeter Facebook FourSquare iPhoneFULHAM:
Hughes is targeting victory despite his players having a tough schedule in the past two weeks.

"We want a run in the cup as well, that breeds confidence," said the former Wales manager.

Fulham forward Clint Dempsey believes the club should be positive heading into the second half of the season as players are returning from injury.

"Players are coming back fit and Bobby Zamora's doing well in training. Hopefully he's on target still," said Dempsey. "Moussa Dembele is training a bit and as soon as we get a full team we'll see what we're capable of doing."

"The atmosphere? It's just been fighting. We're in a situation and have to stick together and work hard and show our character on the pitch.

"I think we showed a willingness to move forward and win in the last three games. We have to keep that standard going and hopefully keep going."

Strategy: Fulham are more attacking under Hughes and that is likely to continue. They play either 4-4-2 or with Demsey behind a striker and it means fairly open games.

Injury Update: Moussa Dembele has been edging back to full fitness but it is a matter of whether Hughes wants to risk the striker. Andrew Johnson (hamstring) is set to miss out and Bobby Zamora is recovering from a broken leg.

PETERBOROUGH:
The visitors have been boosted by Leeds allowing them to play on-loan midfielder Adam Clayton in the FA Cup.

Manager Gary Johnson has promised to "have a go" rather than look for a replay. He said: " I watched them play extremely well in beating West Brom on Tuesday night. There's no doubt I'd rather be facing West Brom this weekend.

"But there is no point in going there just to avoid getting beaten heavily. It would be wrong to go there too open, but it would be just as wrong not to have a go at them.

"I don't want us to come away from Fulham with any regrets. If we lose we want to be able to leave the pitch with our heads held high knowing that we at least had a go."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2011/jan/06/premier-league-managers-sackings


Proud managers face the music while failing players again go silent

The decent reputations of Hodgson, Ancelotti, Houllier and Grant are being ridiculed for slumps that are only partly their fault


Share80  Comments (207)
 
Paul Hayward guardian.co.uk, Thursday 6 January 2011 13.54 GMT

(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Sport/Pix/pictures/2011/1/6/1294321954751/Roy-Hodgson-is-under-pres-007.jpg)
Roy Hodgson finds himself under mounting pressure less than a year after reaching the Europa League final with Fulham. Photograph: Phil Noble/Reuters

As a brutal set of results rolled in on Wednesday evening a night of the long knives beckoned. The Sun was about to speculate in its later editions that as many as four Premier League managers could be fired on the day of Epiphany. We are close to the moment when sackings become an official sport with their own television deal.

At Arsenal Manchester City's Roberto Mancini could reflect on a night of expert negation. But he, too, has seen his job "linked" with other elite coaches while never quite making it to "the brink" of dismissal. Lucky him.

For Roy Hodgson (Liverpool), Carlo Ancelotti (Chelsea), Gérard Houllier (Aston Villa) and Avram Grant (West Ham) there was no refuge in a cosy 0-0 draw. Each had seen his team beaten and went to bed knowing he would be abused in the great new media talkosphere while employers potentially weighed-up "other options".

What rendered Wednesday so distinctive was that four managers with European final pedigrees came in for a whipping. In this more democratic campaign 10 of the 20 Premier league "bosses" have been sacked, tipped for dismissal or subjected to ridicule and rage. Chris Hughton, who conceived wins over Arsenal and Sunderland in Newcastle's first season back at the top, was the first to go, followed by Sam Allardyce, canned at Blackburn by owners who thought Ronaldinho might like a new mid-table life at Ewood Park.

Also grumbled about this winter have been David Moyes (Everton), Mark Hughes (Fulham) and Roberto Martínez at Wigan. Every time Martínez opens his mouth sense flows out. He thinks Wigan need to evolve beyond relegation toil, attract more fans with an entertaining style and stop being a recruiting sergeant for bigger clubs. His problem is that he has won only four of his 21 games and may find his coolness and intelligence stranded in the Championship.

With the four big-name victims from Sunderland's 1-0 win at Villa, Chelsea's defeat at Wolves, Liverpool's tumble at Blackburn and Newcastle's 5-0 pummelling of West Ham we reach the startling ratio of 40% of managers with sleep disturbance, though Mancini is probably now conking out for the full eight hours. And now the real question: how many players are assailed by night-time fear? How many dread the game's capacity to trash a lifetime's work on the back of a few bad results?

The manager is out there on his own and, though six-figure compensation can soften a fall, there is no recompense for being cast as an idiot after decades of careful toil. Sure, from the sacking culture will emerge a new breed of opportunist whose main concern before entering a dug-out will be his severance clause. But Hodgson, Houllier, Ancelotti and even Grant are slaves to a passion as well as politicians and realists. The first thing lost in the rush to humiliate and condemn is the human element: the man's life and work.

So much for their feelings. What about their records? First: Hodgson was a Europa League finalist in May with Fulham and was Manager of the Year for 2009-10. At Craven Cottage he conceived victories over the kind of clubs people are now saying he is unfit to manage. Whether he is equipped to reverse decline at Liverpool is a debate the club's fans are addressing with wince-inducing vigour. No one, though, can caricature him as an overnight chump. Modern fan- pressure has established a point of no return beyond which managers are dumped because everyone assumes they will be.

Ancelotti, meanwhile, won the Double in his first year at Stamford Bridge. While Hodgson writhes and resists, Chelsea's commander sports a more fatalistic look. Life as an employee of Silvio Berlusconi in Milan is the ideal preparation for exposure to proprietorial whim. Equally Roman Abramovich's meddling is the perfect shield for Chelsea's players, who have escaped the scrutiny inflicted on their leader. Further north we could ask Fernando Torres about this too, assuming we could find him.

The same Chelsea players who took the credit for Grant reaching a Champions League final (2008) now escape censure for a shocking run that could soon put Ancelotti on a flight back to Italy. At Villa Houllier picks up the tab for disinvestment. Never mind that he won two French league titles with Lyon after his treble at Liverpool in 2001 or that Villa are in financial retreat post-Martin O'Neill. The right response is enslavement to the rolling ticker of results, then panic.

All of which infantilises the players. For "I blame the parents" read "I blame the manager". Houllier, Hodgson, Ancelotti and Grant, who guided imploding Portsmouth to an FA Cup final, have all reached/won European finals in the last 10 years but their achievements are written in chalk on a board with a wet sponge nearby.

http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/48830/Six_line_up_for_former_next_David_Beckham.aspx (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/48830/Six_line_up_for_former_next_David_Beckham.aspx)


Six line up for former 'next David Beckham'

Author:  Andrew Allen


Posted on:06 January 2011 - 14:42

(http://www.sport.co.uk/public/images_news/AI_Bentley_13082009.jpg)

Six Premier League clubs are thought to be in the race to sign Tottenham Hotspur star David Bentley. The Arsenal academy graduate has struggled to hold down a first place since moving to White Hart Lane from Blackburn Rovers in 2008 and looks set to leave the London club this January.

Wanted back at Ewood Park by new boss Steve Kean, the tricky right sided midfielder is also thought to have been contacted by West Ham United, Fulham, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Everton.

Tipped for a bright future at the top of the game during his time under Arsene Wenger, Bentley quit the Gunners citing a lack of first team football before stamping his mark on the Premier League during two successful seasons under Mark Hughes' stewardship.

Rewarded with a call-up to the England national team and hailed as the long-term successor to David Beckham, the 26-year-old soon moved to Spurs during the ill-fated reign of Juande Ramos.

Despite the Lilywhites spending upwards of £15 million on the midfielder, Bentley was reduced to the substitutes bench by Harry Redknapp and despite a flurry of encouraging cameo performances last term has found first team action this season hard to come by.

After a hefty outlay Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is thought to want to recoup as much cash as possible and will look to negotiate a permanent deal with any potential suitors although wage demands could prove a stumbling block.

http://www.wiganlatics.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10429~2259843,00.html (http://www.wiganlatics.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10429~2259843,00.html)

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/africa/9346494.stm


South Africa's Dikgacoi unhappy at Fulham role

 
Ed Aarons
BBC Sport, Johannesburg. 


(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/50695000/jpg/_50695886_dik.jpg)
Dikgacoi has not featured in Mark Hughes plans this season


The agent of South African Kagisho Dikgacoi says he is planning showdown talks with Fulham manager Mark Hughes.

The midfielder, 25, has seen just four minutes of action since Hughes' arrival at the club in the summer.

With his contract expiring at the end of the season, his agent Mike Makaab, says the player has no option but to move on.

"We will engage Fulham over the next few days and talk to them about the future," he told BBC Sport.

"I've always been straight and honest with my clients so we will have to approach them and admit the situation - KG needs to play games," he said.

Dikgacoi's two-year contract expires in June, meaning he is now free to discuss terms with other clubs in Europe.

According to his agent, teams in France and Germany have already shown an interest.

"If it's not going to be at Fulham then it needs to be somewhere else."

"Ideally we can get something sorted in the January window but if that can't happen then at the end of the season," he stated.

Dikgacoi was part of South Africa's squad at the World Cup which the country hosted and provided the pass for team-mate Siphiwe Tshabalala's opening goal at the tournament.

He played 17 games under former coach Roy Hodgson last season.

Dikgacoi joined The Cottagers in August 2009 after impressing Hodgson at a trial.

He picked up a knee injury in pre-season and has failed to force his way back into the team even with Fulham struggling in the league.

Fulham pip Wolves to Steve Sidwell


Thursday 6th January 2011, 5:00PM GMT


(http://www.expressandstar.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/steve-sidwell1.jpg)

Wolves have been left reeling after midfield target Steve Sidwell opted to join Fulham in the latest dramatic twist to his transfer.

The 28-year-old had twice agreed to move to Molineux either side of his protracted switch to West Ham falling through and attended Wolves' 1-0 win over his former club Chelsea last night, with a view to joining permanently.

Indeed, sources said he had actually signed for Wolves.

But, with the club having agreed a deal with Villa as well as personal terms with the player, he had a change of heart when Fulham, near his family home in Surrey, came calling.

The Cottagers are understood to have offered a long-term deal rather than just to the end of the season.

West Ham couldn't agree personal teams with as many as 15 deals expected in and out at Upton Park this month.

Geography appears to have ultimately won the day for Sidwell's signature, with the Wandsworth-born former Arsenal trainee also turning down more money from an unnamed club further north than Wolves.

Wolves have also distanced themselves from the prospect of signing another Villa player after being linked with Carlos Cuellar.

Cuellar has apparently told his agent he wants to leave Villa Park and Wolves have had the Spaniard on their radar, but have now moved on to other targets.

McCarthy has also been blocked from signing Richard Dunne – at least for this month – because he's back in Villa's team.

And they cooled on his team-mate Curtis Davies because of concerns over the fee.


Read more: http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/wolverhampton-wanderers-fc/2011/01/06/steve-sidwell-joins-wolves-on-loan/#ixzz1AKbR8Zb7 (http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/wolverhampton-wanderers-fc/2011/01/06/steve-sidwell-joins-wolves-on-loan/#ixzz1AKbR8Zb7)

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3335270/Steve-Sidwell-heads-to-Fulham.html

Sidwell's looking Ful of himself


Published: Today


STEVE SIDWELL will join Fulham after his move from Aston Villa to Wolves fell through at the last minute.


The 28-year-old midfielder had originally agreed a deal with West Ham but that also collapsed.

Wolves want Millwall's Steve Morison to help then roar like a lion

By Sportsmail Reporter


Last updated at 10:16 PM on 6th January 2011


Wolves manager Mick McCarthy is trying to land Millwall striker Steve Morison. The Welsh international has scored nine goals this season for Kenny Jackett's Lions.

And McCarthy is keen on using his physical presence to unsettle Premier League defenders. The 6ft 2in frontman is valued at £3m and has also interested Fulham and Nottingham Forest.

Wolves have confirmed the club are in talks to sign Steve Sidwell from Aston Villa.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/01/06/article-1344829-09A4AA8F000005DC-669_468x286.jpg)
Roaring Lion: Steve Morison is wanted by Wolves


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1344829/Wolves-want-Millwalls-Steve-Morison-help-roar-like-lion.html#ixzz1AKf3pic7 (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1344829/Wolves-want-Millwalls-Steve-Morison-help-roar-like-lion.html#ixzz1AKf3pic7)

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/simon-davies-makes-fulham-fa-cup-admission-82029-27943807/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/simon-davies-makes-fulham-fa-cup-admission-82029-27943807/?)

Simon Davies makes Fulham FA Cup admission

HE WAS forced to sleep in the Peterborough dressing room as a 14-year-old – but tomorrow (Sat) Simon Davies is out to make sure his old side don't catch Fulham dozing in the FA Cup.

For all that, the Whites midfielder admits he will take a humbling in the world's most famous domestic trophy if it ensures Premiership survival.

Davies sadly came to the conclusion this week that coming down the Wembley stairs a winner will mean nothing if Fulham are relegated from the top flight.

But after his rocket in Tuesday's 3-0 win over West Brom, the 31-year-old is adamant his team has turned the corner – provided they don't become a giant killed by the club it took a teenage Davies eight hours by train to reach.

He said: "We're taking nothing for granted, but we've played well in the last three games and my goal helped us settle down against West Brom just when we needed it.

"But I wouldn't want to go through the season before last again when we escaped on the final day.

"Every minute of ever day you were thinking about what might happen. And I've been to two cup finals and lost them both – so time is running out for me.

"And it would be immense to finally win a trophy, but sadly the prizes in the Premiership far outweigh the FA Cup."

Davies remembered back to a time when playing Premiership and international football was a childish fantasy after joining League One Posh and making solitary 16-hour round trips from home in Wales.

He said: "The youth staff at Peterborough would chuck a couple of air bags down in the dressing room for five or six of us. We'd get a bit of cereal on the Saturday morning and off we would go. I would normally get home on Sunday at midnight and be back at school the following day.

"But it was a good grounding. It made you appreciate the sacrifices needed to get where you wanted."



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/simon-davies-makes-fulham-fa-cup-admission-82029-27943807/?#ixzz1AKo5g8wZ (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/simon-davies-makes-fulham-fa-cup-admission-82029-27943807/?#ixzz1AKo5g8wZ)

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/peterborough-s-former-fulham-defender-fires-warning-to-diomansy-kamara-and-clint-dempsey-82029-27945903/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/peterborough-s-former-fulham-defender-fires-warning-to-diomansy-kamara-and-clint-dempsey-82029-27945903/?)

Peterborough's former Fulham defender fires warning to Diomansy Kamara and Clint Dempsey

GABRIEL Zakuani has warned former Fulham team-mates Diomansy Kamara and Clint Dempsey: "You're in for a good kicking."

The Peterborough defender returns to Craven Cottage for the first time since leaving the Whites for London Road two seasons ago when the clubs meet in the FA Cup third round tomorrow.

The 24-year-old plans to text old pals Kamara and Dempsey to tell them he will be taking no prisoners as Posh plot to cause an upset.

He said: "I'm good friends with Joe and still keep in touch with him now.

"I'm going to wind him up and tell him not to mess with me. He needs to watch out because I'm going to go through the back of him!

"Clint's tricky, but after the first tackle I'm going to whisper in his ear 'welcome to League One'."

Zakuani helped dump Fulham out of the famous old trophy with Leyton Orient in 2006, prompting a £1million move to SW6.

But he made just two appearances at the Cottage before being shipped out on loan to Stoke City and then Peterborough, where he made the switch permanent in 2009.

However, Zakuani insists he has no regrets about leaving the Whites.

"I was brought in by Chris Coleman, but then he left and I spent most of my time out on loan," he said.

"But I'm sure I made the right move. It's much better to feel part of something rather than just sitting there rotting in the reserves."

Fulham boss Mark Hughes plans to ring the changes for the visit of Gary Johnson's side, with fringe players Stephen Kelly and Jonathan Greening among those expected to get a run-out.

And Zakuani reckons it's a decision Sparky is going to live to regret.

He added: "I'm quite surprised to be honest. They've been struggling in the league and haven't really been scoring lots of goals.

"If they play a weakened side that will definitely benefit us.

"They underestimated us when I beat them with Orient exactly five years ago, and hopefully they come with the same attitude again.

"I really wouldn't be surprised if we caused an upset."



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/peterborough-s-former-fulham-defender-fires-warning-to-diomansy-kamara-and-clint-dempsey-82029-27945903/?#ixzz1AKoOgEaf (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/peterborough-s-former-fulham-defender-fires-warning-to-diomansy-kamara-and-clint-dempsey-82029-27945903/?#ixzz1AKoOgEaf)

http://www.hackneygazette.co.uk:80/football/arsenal/arsene_wenger_only_wants_one_player_for_arsenal_this_month_1_767468? (http://www.hackneygazette.co.uk:80/football/arsenal/arsene_wenger_only_wants_one_player_for_arsenal_this_month_1_767468?)

Arsene Wenger only wants one player for Arsenal this month

I don't need goalkeepers, midfielders or strikers, says Gunners boss, but I might need a centre-back

ARSENE Wenger has admitted he will wait until the end of the transfer window to decide whether or not to bring in defensive reinforcements for the stricken Thomas Vermaelen.

The Gunners boss has asked his medical team for a final answer on whether or not Vermaelen will be fit to play a part in the second half of the season.

The Belgian defender has not played since August because of an Achilles problem, and Wenger admitted this week he is still in the dark over whether or not the 25-year-old will recover.

"I completely exclude any signings in midfield or the offensive department," said Wenger on Tuesday.

"At the back it just depends on Vermaelen. I am waiting to know more about him and at the end of January I will have to make a decision."

If the diagnosis is a negative one then Wenger will enter the transfer market, and may even consider taking a player on a six-month loan as emergency cover.

Aston Villa's Gary Cahill has been a long-term target for the Gunners boss, but Bolton Wanderers have pinned a £20million price tag on the England defender's head.

Fulham's Brede Hangeland is another name Wenger knows well, but the Norway international is unlikely to be allowed to leave Craven Cottage.

Meanwhile another player who is on Arsenal's radar, young Paris St Germain defender Mamadou Sakho, will not be making a January move, according to his agent.

"No, I don't think he will leave PSG in January," said Werner Baader, who represents the 20-year-old Frenchman

"It isn't possible in the January transfer window, but a move in the summer is possible. We will wait and see."

Other than his defensive concerns, Wenger reported a clean bill of health for his squad in the New Year and feels they are ready to launch an assault for the Premier League title.

"We are confident, we have great belief, we are highly motivated, very hungry to do well and overall physically we are in a good shape," said Wenger.

"This is the first time we go into a New Year with a squad of this size available. We have no new injuries and lots of players coming back.

"Kieran Gibbs will be available for Saturday, Aaron Ramsey is back from loan, [Henri] Lansbury as well and Abou Diaby will only be a few weeks.

"[The title race] is not so clear this year, there are five teams in the fight. Some teams have a bit more belief than others but that can change very quickly. It promises a very interesting sprint.

"We are in a period of the season now where the team who can be consistent now will do it. You always have a team who finds momentum after Christmas, and that team will win the championship."

http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/DaviesPeterboroughPreview.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/DaviesPeterboroughPreview.aspx?)

FA Cup Preview

Fulham midfielder Simon Davies fired Fulham on their way to victory on Tuesday night and the former Welsh international was clearly relieved to see his Team move back up the Barclays Premier League table after three impressive performances against Stoke City, Tottenham Hotspur and West Bromwich Albion.

"On Tuesday night the pressure was on but we dug out a victory and it's another step in the right direction," Davies told fulhamfc.com.

"The League is so tight but we knew that one win would lift us up to the league table. It's difficult when you find yourself in the bottom three – you've got to be careful that confidence doesn't drain away and it was a big game for us on Tuesday. It was our first home game since Boxing Day and we needed to get the win."

Davies' goal and two assists against West Brom quite rightly earned him the plaudits but the midfielder was keen to highlight the unity amongst the Team which has served Fulham well in recent weeks.

"It was a good goal to get on Tuesday and it set the ball rolling. I think we started well against West Brom and we always try and keep it tight and play good football. The goal came at a good time because it settled everyone down and got the crowd going.

"We've [the Team] been together a long time now and we stick together and we know we've got enough spirit in the camp to see us through. When you're out there and things aren't going well you need that unity and spirit."

Fulham will be looking to make it three wins in four matches on Saturday when they take on Peterborough in the 3rd Round of the FA Cup and Davies is clearly looking forward to facing his former Club at the Cottage.

"I've played against Peterborough before when I played for Everton and that was at London Road," Davies explained. "The fans gave me a good reception and I had good times there from the age of 14 onwards.

"I used to travel there every weekend from Wales to play and then obviously from the age of 16 I moved up and had a great time under Barry Fry. He gave me my chance in football and I'll always be indebted to him and Peterborough for giving me my chance.

"It'll be good game and I understand they're bringing about 6,000 fans down so it will be a good game to play in and hopefully we can keep our momentum going.

"As a footballer you want to win things and this is our last chance of winning some silverware this season. Hopefully we can use our experience in cup competitions last season to go as far as we can. Of course Premier League football will always be our priority but hopefully we can compete on both fronts."



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/DaviesPeterboroughPreview.aspx?#ixzz1AKtzTJZf (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/DaviesPeterboroughPreview.aspx?#ixzz1AKtzTJZf)

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6639274,00.html? (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6639274,00.html?)

Cottagers in for Sidwell
Cottagers the latest club to join race for Villa midfielder

Fulham have emerged as new contenders to sign Steve Sidwell, Sky Sports News understands.

West Ham and then Wolves made approaches to Aston Villa and were given permission to talk with the former Chelsea man.

The Hammers thought they had got Sidwellafter he passed a medical and agreed terms, only for the midfielder to return to Villa and open talks with Wolves.

Now Fulham are hoping to persuade Sidwell to come back to London with a switch to Craven Cottage.

The 28-year-old is now set to talk terms with Fulham, before deciding where his future lies in the coming days.

http://www.fulhamweb.co.uk/news/Fulham-transfer-link-striker-Andrea-Caracciolo-1.aspx (http://www.fulhamweb.co.uk/news/Fulham-transfer-link-striker-Andrea-Caracciolo-1.aspx)

FULHAM TRANSFER LINK - STRIKER ANDREA CARACCIOLO (1)

Fulham have been linked with 6ft 5in Brescia striker Andrea Caracciolo as Mark Hughes steps up his search for an imposing target man.

The west London club are keen on 6ft 8in Ivory Coast striker Lacina Traore, but have been made aware that Liverpool are also keen on taking him from Cluj.

Caracciolo is reluctant to leave Brescia for anyone but his favourite team - AC Milan - but there seems little prospect of a dream move to the San Siro.

Italy's top sports paper Gazzetta dello Sport say Fulham are interested in a January move and it would be difficult for cash-strapped Brescia to resist a decent bid.

Juventus are considering him now that Manchester City have all but won the race to sign their top target Edin Dzeko from Wolfsburg.

However, the Turin giants have other names higher on their wish list and Fulham could take advantage.

Brescia admit they don't want to sell Caracciolo, who is key to them fighting relegation from Serie A this season.

The 29-year-old struck 24 goals in 35 appearances last season to inspire promotion from Serie B and is their top scorer with five in 15 appearances in this campaign.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/9345593.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/9345593.stm)

Lawro's prediction

Fulham v Peterborough
Peterborough have got a decent manager in Gary Johnson, who knows how to get clubs promoted, but they are probably playing Fulham at the wrong time. This tie has come three weeks too late because, having been in terrible form, Cottagers boss Mark Hughes' men are now looking more like the side we know they can be.

Fulham are still without Moussa Dembele and Bobby Zamora up front but Diomansy Kamara has come back now and they are starting to get among the goals.

Prediction: 2-0

http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/01/07/cole-on-hughes/? (http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/01/07/cole-on-hughes/?)

Cole on Hughes
Filed under: General — rich 
Andrew Cole on Mark Hughes.  Interesting.

I didn't know how my new team mates would take to me. I was absolutely buzzing playing with them, but they might have viewed me differently. Ryan Giggs was especially friendly with me socially and invited me out a lot, while Mark Hughes, the man who should have felt the most threatened, was ultra professional.

In one of my first games for United, a player caught me with a bad challenge. I could look after myself, but Hughes came over.

"Don't worry," he said. "I'll sort that out." Minutes later he took revenge the lad who had done it. I was impressed and came to realise that great teams have players who look after each other, but there was no respite. Later in the same game, Hughes looked at me and said: "Any chance?"

"Of what?" I replied, unsure what he meant.

"Of working harder?" I got the point. There was also talk of Hughes leaving because I had arrived. I did not want him to go, but wanted to learn from him.

http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/48841/Hughes_ready_to_join_Villa_ace_chase.aspx? (http://www.sport.co.uk/news/Football/48841/Hughes_ready_to_join_Villa_ace_chase.aspx?)

Hughes ready to join Villa ace chase

Aston Villa's Steve Sidwell is now a reported target of Fulham, who are set to fight it out with West Ham and Wolves for his services.

Cottagers boss Mark Hughes has prioritised his forward line for strengthening during this January transfer window, but it appears that he is now looking at his midfield options and could join the growing list of clubs looking to snap up Sidwell.

The 28-year-old former Chelsea man looked set to join struggling West Ham when Villa agreed a fee with the Upton Park outfit last week and the player agreed terms and passed a medical.

However Sidwell returned to Villa Park and was then allowed to hold talks with Wolves about a potential switch to Molineux, where he would link up with his former Reading team-mates Kevin Doyle, Stephen Hunt and goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann.

But it appears that Hughes, who is set to allow out of favour South African midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi depart Craven Cottage this month, could try and hijack a deal to take Sidwell to Craven Cottage.

http://www.premierleague.com/page/Headlines/0,,12306~2260079,00.html? (http://www.premierleague.com/page/Headlines/0,,12306~2260079,00.html?)

News in Brief - Fri 7th Jan

Clint Dempsey is confident Fulham have turned the corner after the 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion propelled them from the relegation zone to 13th place in the Barclays Premier League. The bottom half of the table is congested, with Fulham one of eight teams separated by just four points, but that makes momentum and goal difference vital. Fulham have now taken six points from their three matches since the Boxing Day defeat at home to West Ham United, and the victory over West Brom was comprehensive. Dempsey, who scored the second goal at Craven Cottage, said: "It's such a tight league that if we get a good run of results we can start to move up very quickly. Hopefully, we can do that now. The West Ham game was very frustrating but we've bounced back from that. We've shown character and a willingness to move forward. In our last three games we've set a standard with our commitment and workrate. Now it is up to us to maintain that standard. I certainly think you'll see us starting to play better football. It's difficult to play when things don't seem to be going your way, you don't get the rub of the green, your fans are frustrated and you find yourself in the bottom three." 

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/jan/07/football-transfer-rumours? (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/jan/07/football-transfer-rumours?)

Football transfer rumours: Robbie Keane to Fulham?
Today's rumours mill to the left, then mill to the right

Small earthquake in Sydney, not many rumours – which has the potential for filling the Mill with all manner of fevered speculation about the future of the "January Four", greying pudgy-faced men (see above) whose P45s (see above) may or may not be honing into view. First off there's Avram Grant. The Star reckons West Ham have pulled the plug on taking Steve Sidwell from Aston Villa because they're going to give the Israeli the old Spanish archer. Sidwell has had a nice chat with Wolves but Fulham, queue-jumping not for the first time in today's papers, are ready to pounce. Steve McClaren is busily watching old Mike Reid videos to brush up on his Knees Up Mother Brown lingo for his triumphant return to the Premier League with Yer Actual, says the Mail, but so far only one of "the Davids", the two lovely men who fittingly look like the very image of Michelangelo's Renaissance masterpiece, is behind him. David Sullivan is a Macca fan while Chris Hughton, Sam Allardyce and Martin Jol are thought better alternatives by the other half of the two-headed beast.

As for Roy Hodgson, the Sun thinks he's already said his goodbyes to the Liverpool players in the dressing room at Ewood Park after the 3-1 defeat and despite men with buckets and cloths being dispatched to remove a Scouse Banksy's "Hodgson Out" motif outside Melwood, more writing is metaphorically on the wall. He'll be replaced by Owen Coyle, the Star thinks, while Porto's Andre Villas-Boas is the man favoured by Damien Comolli and the Sun. That means Vedran Corluka, Hodgson's No1 transfer window target, will not be on his way from Spurs and Robert Huth will be stopping at Stoke.

Carlo Ancelotti is far more secure at Chelsea – for now at least – and will sign Gary Cahill from Bolton as Liverpool don't have a spare £20m sitting idly in John W Henry's cigar box. Wanderers will replace him with Middlesbrough's David Wheater.

As for Ged Houllier – the Sun contends that he's got three games to save his job but flim-flam is circulating in the Mail about his "odd" behaviour, such as congratulating his players after they were defeated by Sunderland. He'll console himself with far stranger behaviour – taking Wayne Bridge from Manchester City on loan.

Wolves are rather partial to Millwall's Steve Morison and will "table a £3m bid", presumably if the table has sturdy legs, while Arsenal like the cut of Radamel Falcao's jib. Fifty-three goals in 64 Porto league games is a phenomenal record and he looks a snip at £15m. Two words of warning: Mário Jardel.

Robbie Keane, the boyhood fan of Celtic, Liverpool and Leeds United, will tickle the denizens of either St Andrew's, Craven Cottage or Upton Park by regaling them of his lifelong ambition to join their clubs this week for a £7m fee that will free him from Harry Redknapp's bench. However, if it turns out that Keane didn't roam the streets of Tallaght dreaming of becoming the next Simon Sturridge, Blues will turn to Manchester City's Jô.

Newcastle are going to be active over the next week, taking David Bentley on loan from Tottenham to run very slowly up the right wing, Freddie Sears from West Ham, to score once every three years, and Sebastian Larsson from Birmingham for £1.5m, just to be spiteful to Sunderland who thought they'd done a deal for the Swede.

Charlie Adam may be about to say his goodbyes to Blackpool and hotfoot it to Blackburn or Birmingham but the Tangerines will get over him by asking Plymouth's Bradley Wright-Phillips for a hot date. Rovers, meanwhile, have hit a hitch over getting Roque Santa Cruz back on loan from Manchester City. Monaco are eyeing Everton's Louis Saha with a very powerful telescope while, joy of joys, Alan "I'm not a Championship player" Smith may be about to undertake his second stint in the division and at Leeds United as Ken Bates prepares to kill the fatted calf and welcome the prodigal son and his short-lived clothing line, "Alan Smith 17", back into the Elland Road fold.

And finally Cyril? It's Roy "Don't Cry for Me, Rushmere St Andrews" Keane. Out at Ipswich to be replaced by Chris Hughton, if West Ham don't get there first.

http://www.sportinglife.com/football/cc_league1/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/01/07/manual_100442.html&TEAMHD=nationwide2 (http://www.sportinglife.com/football/cc_league1/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=soccer/11/01/07/manual_100442.html&TEAMHD=nationwide2)

NEW BOYS CLEARED FOR FA CUP TIE

Peterborough will have midfielder Adam Clayton and new striker signing Kieran Agard available for the FA Cup trip to Barclays Premier League side Fulham.

Leeds have given permission for Clayton to feature, while 21-year-old Agard - signed on loan from Everton until the end of the season - has also received the green light to be involved.

Former Lincoln midfielder Lee Frecklington is expected to miss out again with his ankle problem, and luckless striker Dave Hibbert is a long-term absentee with a dislocated knee and is not expected to return until March.

Playmaker George Boyd remains a doubt after he turned an ankle in training last weekend and missed Monday's impressive 4-1 win over Walsall.

Midfielder Charlie Lee is also battling an ankle injury which kept him out of Bank Holiday action.

Posh boss Gary Johnson returns to south-west London where he was born, growing up living opposite Craven Cottage and supporting Fulham as a boy.

http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/01/07/fulham-midfielder-simon-davies-gears-up-to-face-former-club-peterborough-64767-27947835/? (http://www.ealinggazette.co.uk/sport/football-ealing/fulham-fc-ealing/2011/01/07/fulham-midfielder-simon-davies-gears-up-to-face-former-club-peterborough-64767-27947835/?)

Fulham midfielder Simon Davies gears up to face former club Peterborough

HE WAS forced to sleep in the Peterborough dressing room as a 14-year-old – but tomorrow (Sat) Simon Davies is out to make sure his old side don't catch Fulham dozing in the FA Cup.

For all that, the Whites midfielder admits he will take a humbling in the world's most famous domestic trophy if it ensures Premiership survival.

Davies sadly came to the conclusion this week that coming down the Wembley stairs a winner will mean nothing if Fulham are relegated from the top flight.

But after his rocket in Tuesday's 3-0 win over West Brom, the 31-year-old is adamant his team has turned the corner – provided they don't become a giant killed by the club it took a teenage Davies eight hours by train to reach.

He said: "We're taking nothing for granted, but we've played well in the last three games and my goal helped us settle down against West Brom just when we needed it.

"But I wouldn't want to go through the season before last again when we escaped on the final day.

"Every minute of ever day you were thinking about what might happen. And I've been to two cup finals and lost them both – so time is running out for me.

"And it would be immense to finally win a trophy, but sadly the prizes in the Premiership far outweigh the FA Cup."
Davies remembered back to a time when playing Premiership and international football was a childish fantasy after joining League One Posh and making solitary 16-hour round trips from home in Wales.

He said: "The youth staff at Peterborough would chuck a couple of air bags down in the dressing room for five or six of us. We'd get a bit of cereal on the Saturday morning and off we would go. I would normally get home on Sunday at midnight and be back at school the following day.

"But it was a good grounding. It made you appreciate the sacrifices needed to get where you wanted."

http://www.theage.com.au/sport/soccer/schwarzer-has-no-plans-to-sign-off-20110107-19ius.html? (http://www.theage.com.au/sport/soccer/schwarzer-has-no-plans-to-sign-off-20110107-19ius.html?)

Schwarzer has no plans to sign off
Liam Fitzgibbon, Doha

(http://images.theage.com.au/2011/01/07/2124020/schwarzer_main-420x0.jpg)
There no stopping 38-year-old Mark Schwarzer who wants to keep playing for Australia.
Photo: Reuters

RECORDS and milestones don't fire Mark Schwarzer but he is not likely to stop breaking them any time soon.

At 38, Schwarzer is still at the top of his game after an international career spanning close to 18 years.

And while many had tipped this month's Asian Cup as his international swansong, the Fulham shot-stopper said he was enjoying himself too much to think about hanging up the gloves.

Advertisement: Story continues below
Schwarzer, who was one of the most influential figures when Australia qualified for back-to-back World Cups in 2006 and 2010, said he just might like to help the Socceroos make it three straight and play on until Brazil 2014.

''At this stage in my career I'm not looking that far ahead, I'm looking year by year but who knows what will happen,'' he said. ''I've signed with Fulham for another 18 months, potentially two-and-a-half years ... if you get down the track and maybe it's six months, eight months out from the World Cup and we've qualified, I'd have to re-assess ... At the moment I feel so long as I'm selected and in the team on merit, I want to be there.''

When the next World Cup kicks off Schwarzer will be 42 years and 244 days old. The Australian would surpass Cameroon's Roger Milla (42 and 39 days) as the oldest player to participate.

Schwarzer, who made his debut against Canada in 1993, is already the oldest and longest-serving Socceroo. His 34 clean sheets for Australia is 10 more than his nearest rival, Zeljko Kalac.

And with 82 caps, he is on track to notch up another milestone if Australia can make the final of the 16-team Asian Cup tournament beginning today, requiring six more appearances to surpass Alex Tobin's record for caps in internationals.

Respectful of history, the significance of those feats is not lost on Schwarzer but they're not the reason he wants to play on.

''Of course you do have little sort of goals along the way that you do want to achieve, things in the back of your mind that you do look upon every now and then,'' Schwarzer said. ''But that's not what drives me.

''What drives me is the determination to play for my country and the hunger to succeed and have success and achieve and accomplish something for the national team.

''[The Asian Cup] is still relatively new ground for us. We want to be the second major team to win a tournament in Asia behind the Matildas and that would be something very, very special.

''But also what would be special is to be involved in a national team that qualifies Australia for a third consecutive World Cup.''

AAP

http://www.theposh.com/page/NewsDetail/0,,10427~2260851,00.html? (http://www.theposh.com/page/NewsDetail/0,,10427~2260851,00.html?)

Fulham v Posh: The Match Preview


Peterborough United will be backed by close to 5,000 supporters on Saturday as Gary Johnson's men travel to Craven Cottage to face Premier League side Fulham in the third round of the FA Cup, sponsored by E.ON (3pm).

Fulham go into the clash on the back of a comprehensive 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion, while Posh are in good form themselves, five matches unbeaten in all competitions.

TEAM NEWS

Posh include two new loan signings in their squad after Jonathan Obika and Kieran Agard joined from Tottenham Hotspur and Everton respectively.

George Boyd remains a doubt, while Dave Hibbert is definitely out. Lee Frecklington will play for a Posh XI at Histon on Saturday (3pm) with Dominic Green, Rene Howe, Jay Davies, Romone McCrae and Danny Mills also involved in that squad.

Fulham are sweating on the fitness of striker Andrew Johnson (hamstring) while Bobby Zamora is still out. Simon Davies is expected to feature against his former club.

ONE TO WATCH
(http://www.theposh.com/javaImages/b4/23/0,,10427~9315252,00.jpg)
Centre back Brede Hangeland scored in the win over the Baggies and the towering defender caused no end of problems from set-pieces with his aerial ability. A powerful, tall centre back, he will be a difficult obstacle for the Posh strikers to evade.

MANAGER QUOTES

'I was born in Fulham, I went to school there and I played there as a kid. Fulham is my team and most of my family are supporters too so it is a big game for them, not just for me. I can't wait to go back and try to put one over on them. I know our players are looking forward to it as much as I am. The lads will have friends and family members in the stands just as I will.

'It would be fantastic to get a win or to bring Fulham back here for a replay which would no doubt bring some money in. The FA Cup throws up lots of good results for underdogs and we have to hope that we provide one of them this weekend. It is an occasion for us to enjoy as we try to match our game against that of a Premier League team.

'I just want to see us cause Fulham a problem while trying to stop their very potent attack. And if we are able to cause a top-level team like Fulham problems it will stand us in good stead when we come up against League One opponents. We haven't prepared any differently for this game than we would any other. We will try to win the game and see what comes of it.

'It is case of needing 11 heroes and that's certainly how the players will be treated if they are successful. My job is to keep them relaxed and make sure they go out there to compete. A Premier League side will soon punish us if we are not on our game and that's not something we want to happen,' Johnson said.

DIGGER DAVIES

Simon Davies spoke to Fulham's official website and remembered his time as a youngster at London Road: 'The youth staff at Peterborough would chuck a couple of air bags down in the dressing room for five or six of us. We'd get a bit of cereal on the Saturday morning and off we would go. I would normally get home on Sunday at midnight and be back at school the following day. But it was a good grounding. It made you appreciate the sacrifices needed to get where you wanted,' Davies said.

TICKET INFORMATION

Posh have sold over 4,500 tickets for the game. There will be very limited tickets available to purchase at the turnstiles on Saturday.

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/fulham-set-to-win-steve-sidwell-chase-2178709.html? (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/fulham-set-to-win-steve-sidwell-chase-2178709.html?)

Fulham set to win Steve Sidwell chase

Fulham manager Mark Hughes expects Steve Sidwell to sign for the club later this afternoon.

The Aston Villa midfielder, who appeared destined for West Ham before Christmas, has passed a medical at Craven Cottage.

Hughes said: "Things can happen but at some point this afternoon Steve should sign for us. He ticks all the boxes for us and has been in my mind for some time.

"He is well admired as a box-to-box player who can get you a goal and he wants to be part of what we are doing here. He wants to get his career back on track. I hope he will have a long career here."

http://www.teamtalk.com/aston-villa/6640133/Wolves-give-up-on-Sidwell? (http://www.teamtalk.com/aston-villa/6640133/Wolves-give-up-on-Sidwell?)

Cottagers close in on SS capture

Fulham manager Mark Hughes expects Aston Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell to sign for the Cottagers on Friday afternoon.

Sidwell, who appeared destined for West Ham before Christmas, has passed a medical at Craven Cottage.

Hughes said: "Things can happen but at some point this afternoon Steve should sign for us. He ticks all the boxes for us and has been in my mind for some time.

"He is well admired as a box-to-box player who can get you a goal and he wants to be part of what we are doing here. He wants to get his career back on track. I hope he will have a long career here."

Wolves had been in discussions with the 28-year-old having already agreed a fee with Villa, but are resigned to losing out to Fulham.

Club chief executive Jez Moxey told the club website: "Fulham have come in for him, and, rather than take over his contract which runs to the end of the season, they have offered him a long-term deal.

"We move on, we've always said how difficult it is to get players in, especially at this time of the year.

"We never believe a player is ours until he actually signs, so there was no great surprise - although there was disappointment - here because we always knew there were other clubs interested.

"Even after a few days into the window's opening, it's already proving just as difficult as in previous years.

"However we continue to actively pursue at least two or three potential new signings."

http://www.teamtalk.com/match/preview/978/6640114/Fulham-v-Peterborough-preview? (http://www.teamtalk.com/match/preview/978/6640114/Fulham-v-Peterborough-preview?)

Fulham v Peterborough preview

Team news for Saturday afternoon's FA Cup third-round clash between Fulham and Peterborough at Craven Cottage.

Mark Hughes is hoping striker Moussa Dembele recovers from an ankle injury before naming his side for the game against Posh.

Andrew Johnson is sidelined after suffering a minor hamstring tear which kept him out of the victory against West Brom.

Long-term casualty Bobby Zamora will also miss the clash.

Peterborough will have midfielder Adam Clayton and new striker signing Kieran Agard available for the game against the Cottagers.

Leeds have given permission for Clayton to feature, while 21-year-old Agard - signed on loan from Everton until the end of the season - has also received the green light to be involved.

Former Lincoln midfielder Lee Frecklington is expected to miss out again with his ankle problem, and luckless striker Dave Hibbert is a long-term absentee with a dislocated knee and is not expected to return until March.

Playmaker George Boyd remains a doubt after he turned an ankle in training last weekend and missed Monday's impressive 4-1 win over Walsall.

Midfielder Charlie Lee is also battling an ankle injury which kept him out of Bank Holiday action.

Posh boss Gary Johnson returns to south-west London where he was born, growing up living opposite Craven Cottage and supporting Fulham as a boy.

Fulham (from): Stockdale, Pantsil, Hangeland, Hughes, Baird, Davies, Riise, Murphy, Etuhu, Duff, Dempsey, E Johnson, Kamara, Gera, Dembele, Etheridge, Salcido, Greening, Halliche.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/9341827.stm? (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/9341827.stm?)

BBC Fulham v Peterborough

TEAM NEWS
Fulham are hoping striker Moussa Dembele recovers from an ankle injury before naming their side.
Andrew Johnson is sidelined after suffering a minor hamstring tear which kept him out of the West Ham match.
Peterborough will hand a late fitness test to winger George Boyd (ankle) who missed Monday's win over Walsall.
Kieran Agard could make his debut after joining on loan from Everton, whilst Leeds loanee Adam Clayton has also been given permission to play.

BIG-MATCH FACTS
The tie in context
• This is one of four Premier League against League One ties in the third round.

• Peterborough are one of 11 League One clubs to have successfully negotiated the first two rounds.
Gulf in class
• Fulham are 37 places higher than Posh on the league ladder.

Head-to-head
• Peterborough have won seven of the 12 competitive meetings with Fulham.
• The most recent meetings where in 1991/92, the only season these clubs have been in the same division together, when Posh did the double in the old Third Division.
• The London Road club are looking for a fifth successive win over the Cottagers.
• Fulham have not beaten the Cambridgeshire club in seven meetings subsequent to a League Cup tie in September 1976.

FA Cup records and best performances
• These clubs have only been paired together once before in the competition.
• Fulham won the third round tie 1-0 after a replay at London Road in January 1959.
• Peterborough are still to score an FA Cup goal against the Thames-side club.

The clubs
FULHAM
Current form
• Coming off a 3-0 home victory over West Brom on Tuesday.
• That was their fourth Premier League victory this season and their second maximum in three outings, which followed an eight-match winless sequence.
FA Cup form
• Quarter-finalists in each of the last two seasons.
• Manager Mark Hughes was four times a winner as a player with Manchester United and Chelsea.
• Last knocked out by lower division opposition in January 2008, when League One Bristol Rovers got the better of them after a penalty shoot-out.

PETERBOROUGH UNITED
Current form
• Won three and drawn two of their last five competitive matches.
• Southampton were the last club to beat them 4-1 at St Mary's on 20 November.
• Scored 59 goals in 28 league and cup games this season.
FA Cup form
• Won 99 FA Cup matches.
• Craig Mackail-Smith scored against Stockport and Bury in the first two rounds to take his career tally of FA Cup goals to 12, to making him Peterborough's club record goalscorer in the competition.
• The 1965 quarter-finalists have only been further than the third round once in the last five seasons (2007/08).

Replay date
Tuesday, 18 January 2011 (Kick off: 1945 GMT)

Match officials
Referee: Lee Mason (Lancashire)
Assistant referees: Ceri Richards and David Plowright
Fourth official: David Phillips

http://www.footymad.net/storytext.asp?article=3557384 (http://www.footymad.net/storytext.asp?article=3557384)

DEMBELE DOUBT FOR COTTAGERS

Boss Mark Hughes is hoping striker Moussa Dembele recovers from an ankle injury before naming his side for the visit of Peterborough to Craven Cottage.

Andrew Johnson is sidelined after suffering a minor hamstring tear which kept him out of the victory against West Brom.

Long-term casualty Bobby Zamora will also miss the FA Cup third-round clash.

Source: PA

http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=227385 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=227385)

Fulham - Keane in the Frame!
There was a surprising development last night that is if the tabloid press has assembled their information correctly!

With Mark Hughes often bemoaning that the side lacks a cutting edge, primarily because of injuries to our forwards, it appears that Fulham have jumped to the head of the queue to sign the Spurs forward, Robbie Keane.

At one stage it had been decreed that Birmingham City were favourites to secure his signature but a reluctance to pay the reported transfer fee of £8 million has been cited as a reason for the deal falling through.

We, of course, await confirmation from the club over any official interest though!



Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=227385#ixzz1AMo1ZrMu (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=227385#ixzz1AMo1ZrMu)

http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=227386 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=227386)

Fulham - Sidwell Deal?
The red-top tabloids have now placed Fulham as the leading contenders to sign the Aston Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell.

In recent weeks, Sidwell has been linked with a move to West Ham with it being inferred that a deal, including a medical, had been all but done. Subsequently, Wolves also declared an interest in the player nut this too appears to have fallen by the wayside with it being implied that Sidwell would like a return to London.

Strangely enough, there`s no mention of a fee being involved, as yet, but we`ll keep you posted regarding any further developments!


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=227386#ixzz1AMoE1Ayh (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=227386#ixzz1AMoE1Ayh)

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/fulham-snub-blackburn-approach-for-damien-duff-82029-27949375/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/fulham-snub-blackburn-approach-for-damien-duff-82029-27949375/?)

Fulham snub Blackburn approach for Damien Duff

FULHAM boss Mark Hughes has rubbished reports that Damien Duff could be on his way back to Blackburn.

Rovers are keen to bring the winger to Ewood Park – almost 14 years after making his debut there as a teenager.

But Hughes has slapped a not-for-sale sign on the Republic of Ireland international.

He said: "There was something in the press and I think they [Blackburn] were trying to make contact with me to discuss the situation.

"But he's not available. He's part of what we're doing so the conversation doesn't need to take place.

"He's contracted to Fulham and I have to protect the interests of the club. Allowing a player of Damien Duff's quality to leave would be bad management."



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/fulham-snub-blackburn-approach-for-damien-duff-82029-27949375/?#ixzz1AMxzbPSK (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/fulham-snub-blackburn-approach-for-damien-duff-82029-27949375/?#ixzz1AMxzbPSK)

http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/fulham-priced-out-of-move-for-spurs-stars-david-bentley-and-robbie-keane-82029-27949476/? (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/fulham-priced-out-of-move-for-spurs-stars-david-bentley-and-robbie-keane-82029-27949476/?)

Fulham priced out of move for Spurs stars David Bentley and Robbie Keane

MARK Hughes admits he's been priced out of a move for Tottenham duo David Bentley and Robbie Keane.

With Bobby Zamora, Andy Johnson and Mousa Dembele all dogged by injuries, the Fulham boss has made a striker his number one priority in the January transfer window.

Harry Redknapp has told the out-of-favour Spurs pair they are free to leave White Hart Lane, putting the rest of the Premier League on red alert.

But Hughes hinted he couldn't afford to bring them to Craven Cottage.

He said: "There's a lot of players being mentioned out there who I admire, but sometimes a deal to bring players like that to a club like ours could be a little bit prohibited.

"Although in the past there's been a will to bring players here, sometimes we haven't been able to do it because of the finances involved.

"David's a player I've worked with and arguably had his best spell with me at Blackburn.

"He was able to get a big-money move to Tottenham but it hasn't gone as well as he would've liked. He's looking to start playing again and enjoy his football.

"But it's another situation where players go to top clubs who pay significant amounts of money, and it's a big ask for Fulham to match the demands of the player's club and the players themselves."



Read More http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/fulham-priced-out-of-move-for-spurs-stars-david-bentley-and-robbie-keane-82029-27949476/?#ixzz1AMyF5AVC (http://www.fulhamchronicle.co.uk/london-sport/fulham-fc/2011/01/07/fulham-priced-out-of-move-for-spurs-stars-david-bentley-and-robbie-keane-82029-27949476/?#ixzz1AMyF5AVC)

http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk:80/sport/football/peterborough-united/posh_fa_cup_grant_hit_a_cracker_past_van_der_sar_1_2281170? (http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk:80/sport/football/peterborough-united/posh_fa_cup_grant_hit_a_cracker_past_van_der_sar_1_2281170?)

Posh FA Cup: Grant hit a cracker past Van der Sar

LINING up against mighty Fulham in the third round of the FA Cup is nothing new for Posh skipper Grant McCann.

The Northern Ireland international has been there and done that before.

He was part of the Cheltenham Town team that went down to 2-1 to the Cottagers when they were playing at their temporary home of Loftus Road back in 2003.

It was still a memorable occasion for the midfield star who fired his side into an early lead when blasting a fine shot past Fulham keeper Edwin Van der Sar.

Cheltenham's lead was short-lived as Louis Saha soon equalised before breaking their hearts with a last-gasp winner, but McCann is now looking forward to having another crack at claiming the scalp of the capital club.

McCann said: "It was a good occasion and scoring made it even better, but we were very disappointed to be on the receiving end of a late goal from Saha.

"Another crack at them back at Whaddon Road was the very least we deserved from the game and we all had our hearts set on that by the time he got the winner.

"My parents came over from Northern Ireland to watch me in that game so it was special to score in front of them and in a game of such stature.

"The ball broke to me about 25 yards out and there wasn't a lot on, so I had a shot and the ball swerved in. It is one of the goals I will always remember like the one I scored for Scunthorpe at Wembley and my first for Northern Ireland.

"I'm expecting a very good game against Fulham again. We go there with nothing to lose and have to concentrate on playing our game. The chances are there will be a shock somewhere in the FA Cup this weekend, so why not us?"

McCann was joined in the Cheltenham line-up seven years ago by former Posh midfield man Richard Forsyth and former city resident John Finnigan.

Tomorrow he is likely to have loanee Adam Clayton alongside him after he was given clearance to play by Leeds United. Both those men caught the eye in a somewhat flattering 4-1 success over League One basement boys Walsall on Bank Holiday Monday.

McCann added: "We didn't play too well the other day but you would rather it be like that and get the win than put in a cracking performance and get nothing from a game.

"If we carry on getting the points we won't have too many complaints and the win on Monday took our little unbeaten run on to five games.

"It was nice for me to have a hand in three of the goals and I feel I am starting to get my form back a bit.

"My performances dipped and it was probably my own fault for trying to play through injuries, but my fitness is there now and I want to start playing at my best again.

"A lot of players had their form go at the same time and you could see that in our results, but steadily things are coming right again.

"Fulham is a game we can go and enjoy but we have a big league game against Brentford here on Tuesday and that is the most important one. We definitely owe them one after they beat us quite easily at their place."

http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2011/01/deja-vu-again-ful-3-0-wba.html? (http://cottagers.blogspot.com/2011/01/deja-vu-again-ful-3-0-wba.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

Deja Vu again - FUL 3 - 0 WBA
(http://www.fulhamfc.com/CachedImage.axd?ImageName=%2fImages%2fMainNews%2fNewsPages%2fPhotoSpecial%2f1011%2fWestBromHome%2fPA-9981247.jpg&ImageWidth=633&ImageHeight=500)

I do like night games And the round of Premier League matches this midweek were so interesting that I think it should be done more often. Fulham fans were spoilt on Thursday nights last season, especially considering the results the team achieved, so let's have some more.

Most people are getting giddy about this game and how it's a corner turned, but it was just a bit more of the same for me, the only difference being that WBA couldn't defend for toffee. It kind of felt like the false dawn experienced after the comfortable dismantling of Wigan in October which was followed up with 8 games without a win. Still Fulham were due their slice of luck the way things have been going this season - hopefully it won't have all come in the same match.
The first half was almost ruined for me by the incessant prattling of someone behind me comparing everything to the computer games Fifa 11 and Football Manager. It really was tiresome.  Fortunately it seemed to be for his mates as well, as he barely mentioned either game in the second half after they took the mickey out of him. I don't know where they were supposed to be sitting, but they were marauding around the stand like scavengers looking for free seats that they could sit near some people they know. Hey, at least they turn up, unlike Ish these days. I do wonder why he renewed his season ticket again. I think he's missed the last six.

The goals Fulham scored from corners were ridiculously easy, so much so it begs the question why Simon Davies is so keen to take short ones all the time. But in this game they were helped by the diminutive size of the makeshift West Brom back line and Scott Carson seemingly suffering from post traumatic stress disorder after his attempt at a save in the first half from Davies' hopeful shot just speared the ball into the top corner, much to the astonishment of the Hammy End.

Johnny P had one of his more random games, while the rest of the squad continued some decent form without looking too dangerous. The subs Eddie Johnson and Riise were woeful in the short time they had though. The former didn't even get a touch and the later looked concussed. It was a shame - he was occasionally effective last season.

As to where Steve Sidwell fits into this team I don't know. It's the strikeforce that needs strengthening as a priority, not the midfield.

http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/HughesPeterboroughPreview.aspx? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/HughesPeterboroughPreview.aspx?)

A Special Competition

Fulham Manager Mark Hughes described the FA Cup as a "special competition" ahead of the Third Round visit of Peterborough United on Saturday.

The Whites have reached the Quarter-Final of the Cup in both of the past two seasons, and Hughes is determined to steer the Club to further success in a competition he is more than familiar with. As a player he reached four Finals with Manchester United and Chelsea, before guiding Blackburn Rovers to two Semi-Finals in three seasons there as manager.

"It's a competition that I have a great deal of affection for," Hughes told fulhamfc.com. "It's been a big part of my career. A lot of the success I had as a player came in the FA Cup and, for me, it's the best club cup competition in the world.

"This will be my first involvement in it with Fulham and I'm very much looking forward to it. Of course, the Premier League is huge and it is extremely important, but I just think the FA Cup is a special competition – it's unique.

"It's one that I take very seriously and that will be very much the case here. It's a great chance for teams to do well and have a bit of success, so why not have a go and see how far you can get?"

Fulham enter Saturday's encounter in fine form having recorded two victories from their last three games, with defeats of Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion either side of a decent performance at Tottenham on New Year's Day.

"People have asked me whether I think Tuesday's victory over West Brom was the turning point," revealed Hughes. "But I actually think that it came sooner than that. We were playing well up to a certain point, and even in the West Ham game there were positives to be taken.

"After that one we knew that we had two difficult games on the horizon with trips to Stoke and then Tottenham. We played exceptionally well at the Britannia Stadium and then we gave a good technical display at White Hart Lane.

"I think those two games really set up our performance against West Brom. Now we are in a mindset where we know exactly what we need to do and how to win Premier League games.

"But now the focus is on the FA Cup and it's a competition we will pay a lot of respect to, because we want to do well. I have said before that a good run in the Cup can put a team in the habit of winning - and that's what we want. I'm looking for a similar result and performance on Saturday."

The Manager is expecting to field a strong line-up against Peterborough, who go into the game unbeaten in five League One matches.

With Andrew Johnson temporarily sidelined and Bobby Zamora a long-term casualty, Hughes is hoping that Belgium international Mousa Dembele is fit to play after a lengthy lay-off from an ankle injury.

"We came through the last game unscathed, so in theory it could be the same team," he said. "We're still waiting on Mousa, but it would be nice to get him involved because he hasn't played for a very long time now.

"He didn't train with the group today, although he has been doing a bit this week. We'll have to see on the morning of the game whether or not he will be in contention, but he's scheduled to do a bit more work with our physios.

"Other than that, the rest of the players are good to go. There are certainly no issues with their recovery so I have the benefit of choosing my team from virtually the whole squad – obviously with the exception of those that are currently injured.

"You can prioritise and say that the league is the main focus because it's our bread and butter, but I don't necessarily take that view. We're on a good run at the moment and, as a result, I'm more inclined to keep those players together because continuity is important.

"It's frustrating for the players that haven't been playing and I have to say that they have been very patient. I do feel for those players, but it's about making sure that the balance is right and that the team is settled.

"That's not to say some of them won't be involved, but if you make too many changes it can affect the dynamics of the team and come back to bite you on the backside. This is a big game for Peterborough and they will certainly be up for this one and want to get the better of us. If we do not understand that on the day, then the potential is there for us to be caught out.

"We can't let that happen because we have intentions of doing well in this competition."

Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/HughesPeterboroughPreview.aspx?#ixzz1AN7Whu5m (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/HughesPeterboroughPreview.aspx?#ixzz1AN7Whu5m)