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General Category => Archive => Daily Fulham Stuff => Topic started by: White Noise on January 14, 2011, 11:51:45 PM

Title: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 14, 2011, 11:51:45 PM

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/3352818/Mark-Hughes-is-confident-Fulham-will-avoid-relegation.html


Hughes has a Kop shock

Published: 15 Jan 2011


MARK HUGHES is confident Fulham will escape a relegation dogfight.

But he has warned his old playing rival Kenny Dalglish that it could be a different story for Liverpool.

Fulham have hit form, winning three of their last four games, so easing the pressure on Hughes who was facing calls from his own fans to be sacked over the festive period.

In stark contrast, Liverpool have lost five of their last seven games and their latest defeat at Blackpool leaves them four points above the bottom three.

Hughes said: "How the league is this year, it could happen to anybody.

"This time last year, we'd lost five games in a row, started off ninth and dropped to 12th, where as if that happened this year, you would find yourself bottom."

Hughes faces a battle to make Fulham the star entertainers on Match of the Day and push them up the pecking order.

Fulham's game against fellow strugglers Wigan today is a certainty to be last on the programme once again - especially as Fulham have been tagged as draw specialists.

Hughes added: "This year with the draws we've had, we tend to migrate towards the end of Match of the Day.

"We were the top scorers in the FA Cup last weekend and have not got as much Press as other teams get."
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 14, 2011, 11:54:41 PM

Liverpool in danger of joining relegation strugglers - says Hughes

Published 23:00 14/01/11


By Martin Lipton

(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/match-centre/article661769.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/.jpeg)

Mark Hughes last night warned Liverpool they will be sucked into a relegation scrap – unless they wake up to the danger they're in.

His Fulham side will leapfrog the Reds with a win at Wigan today, while a Merseyside derby defeat could leave Kenny Dalglish's men perilously near to the drop zone.

While relegation for Liverpool seems unthinkable, Hughes refused to discount the possibility of the Anfield outfit being dragged into the survival fight.

Liverpool suffered their 10th League defeat of the season at Blackpool, and he said: "The ­relegation battle could go right to the end with maybe seven or eight clubs still involved.

"The clubs who have come up are stronger than in other years, while the top teams have been ­dropping points."

Hughes believes his side have become a forgotten team by the TV cameras, and was disappointed that Diomansy Kamara's FA Cup hat-trick against Peterborough last week barely featured.

"Maybe with the number of draws we've had this season our games are going to migrate to the end of Match of the Day," added Hughes. "But we were the top scorers in the FA Cup, the only team with a player who scored three, and we didn't get the attention other teams did."

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez is looking for an e­nergised display from his team to make up for their flat showing at Craven Cottage earlier in the season.

He rested most of his first team for last weekend's 3-2 FA Cup win at Hull, so most of the squad will be playing their first game since Boxing Day.

"The performance at Fulham was one of the biggest ­disappointments we have had this season," Martinez said. "We have to put that ­performance right."



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Liverpool-in-danger-of-joining-the-relegation-battle-according-to-Fulham-boss-Mark-Hughes-article672955.html#ixzz1B3apVTP (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Liverpool-in-danger-of-joining-the-relegation-battle-according-to-Fulham-boss-Mark-Hughes-article672955.html#ixzz1B3apVTP)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:23:53 AM
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/01/14/article-0-0CC350F8000005DC-800_634x1617.jpg)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:34:07 AM

FA Youth Cup: Fulham 3-0 Norwich


Friday 14th January 2011


(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/PostMatch/1011/YouthCupNorwichHomeTrotta.jpg)


Fulham's Youth Team booked their place in the Fifth Round of the FA Youth Cup sponsored by E.ON thanks to goals from Alex Brister, Kerim Frei and Marcello Trotta.

Fulham started the game in bright fashion with Trotta creating the first opportunity of the encounter with a wonderful first touch in the area which took him away from two defenders. The Italian striker spun and hit a fine volley which had Remi Matthews, in the Norwich goal, beaten. Unfortunately Trotta's shot clipped the outside of the post.

Norwich soon started to assert themselves in the game and, courtesy of some unforced errors in the Fulham defence, were able to pressure the Whites' back line – thankfully without any end result.

Fulham almost opened the scoring on 15 minutes after Kerim Frei surged through midfield before laying a pass into the path of Ronnie Minkwitz whose shot was saved well by the onrushing Matthews.

The Whites continued to look good in attack and moments later Alex Brister found himself in a promising position. Although the Fulham attacker scuffed his shot somewhat, the keeper was well beaten, only for a spare defender to clear off the line.

Fulham's attack was certainly the more incisive in the first-half and another fine counter-attack saw Josh Pritchard try an audacious chip from the edge of the penalty area which just sailed over the bar.

Fulham deservedly took the lead in the 23rd minute courtesy of a crisp finish from the edge of the area from Alex Brister. The impressive Ronnie Minkwitz played the ball to Brister who placed a fine shot inside the far post.

The Whites started in the second-half in a confident manner but there was a moment of danger when Aaron Pierre brought his man down on the edge of the Fulham area. Jesse Joronen needed to be alert to punch out the resulting set piece and clear the danger.

Trotta played the role of the lone front man to perfection, holding up play well and being ably supported by willing runners from midfield. Norwich captain Matthew Ball picked up his side's second yellow card of the second-half when he was forced to bring down Frei after another purposeful run from the Fulham midfielder following excellent work from Trotta.

Cristian Marquez-Sanchez almost netted and remarkable goal when his 50 yard run took him into the heart of the Norwich penalty area unfortunately the Spanish youth international smashed his shot into the side netting.

Aaron Pierre's involvement in the game ended on 67 minutes when he was replaced by Robert Maloney. But Fulham doubled their advantage soon after when tenacious work from Trotta won possession back for the Whites inside the Norwich area. Trotta muscled his way past a defender before playing a square pass across the face of goal, leaving Kerim Frei with a one-yard tap in.

Trotta then netted a well-deserved goal on 77 minutes, confidently collecting the ball 20 yards out before stroking a sublime left-footed finish past Remi Mattews. Kit Symons' men then saw out the remaining minutes comfortably.

The Whites will now play Wigan or Watford at home in the Fifth Round (fixture date and time to be confirmed).

Fulham: Joronen; Marquez-Sanchez, Kamau, Toure, Pierre (Maloney 67); Arthurworrey, Brister (Gameiro 83), Minkwitz, Trotta, Pritchard (Owusu Ansah 80), Frei

Norwich: Matthews; Barker, Toffolo (Stevens 78), Brindley, Jones, Gordon, Oakley, Dobbs, Werndly, Ball, Kelly (Loza 45).



Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/YouthCupFulhamvNorwich.aspx#ixzz1B5DI94CF (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/YouthCupFulhamvNorwich.aspx#ixzz1B5DI94CF)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:40:14 AM
Youth Cup Photo Special

Friday 14th January 2011


http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/YouthCupFulhamvNorwichPhotoSpecial.aspx (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/YouthCupFulhamvNorwichPhotoSpecial.aspx)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:41:28 AM
http://cravencottagenewsround.wordpress.com/2011/01/14/transfer-silliness


Transfer Silliness

Filed under: General — timmyg @ 9:24 pm

Three names that we were "linked" with have all fallen through. And probably for the best.

Roque Santa Cruz:

In total, Santa Cruz started eight games, with another 16 substitute appearances. The Paraguay international has earned around £6m in wages. (via guardian)

City have hardened their stance on the issue of wages for loan players since agreeing to subsidise Craig Bellamy's move to Cardiff earlier this season and Blackburn will pay the majority of Santa Cruz's salary. (via soccernet)

Robbie Keane:

Personal terms have not yet been discussed and Keane's £65,000-a-week wages would make him Birmingham's highest-paid player by some distance (via guardian)

David Bentley:

United target David Bentley is likely to join Birmingham City after having a "must play every game" clause sanctioned by Alex McLeish, with the second city side also prepared to shell out over £70,000 per week to meet his wage demands. (via chronicle)

Oh, and not that he was "targeted" by us, but West Ham are paying Wayne Bridge £90,000 a week.

I don't have any proof that these figures are exact, but my lord are they ridiculous. And I am glad we aren't paying these bit-part players' ridiculous salaries. (What is AJ's salary again?)

So far this season, Santa Cruz has played 34 league minutes and 80 minutes in the Carling Cup. Bentley has played 102 minutes in the league and one entire Carling Cup match — that 4-1 loss to Arsenal. Keane has played in most of Spurs' competitions, but still only 2 starts and 10 substitution appearances. For context, Eddie Johnson has the same amount of total appearances: 1 start and 11 subs.

Obviously, players are loaned out in January because they aren't playing enough for their clubs. But, not to sound like a broken record, for the loan recipient team to still pay these wages in full is absurd, and explains why they aren't at SW6.

In other transfer news, Robert Milsom and Fredrik Stoor have both left. I'm not surprised about Stoor (why didn't it happen over the summer?), but am about Milsom. Sure, the lad is 24, but he was touted as a blue chip. Now, he'll be playing in Aberdeen.
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:47:35 AM
http://www.aftonbladet.se/sportbladet/fotboll/internationell/england/article8413642.ab


Fulham clearance - To purchase Noring

(http://gfx2.aftonbladet-cdn.se/multimedia/dynamic/00917/63132-TFF-BP340_917441l.jpg)

Viktor Noring looks to be the next Swedish Premier League.

After a week of practice games with Fulham, the club decided that they want to buy the Swede.

- We have received positive signals from Fulham and they now want to take this matter forward, "says Noring agent Martin Klett to Sportbladet.

Under-21 squad Viktor Noring opened on Monday five-day trial game with Fulham. After today's final training session held a meeting with club Noring and his representative, Martin Klett, where they explained that they want to buy the Swede.

"Want to take the matter forward '
- We have had a briefing with Fulham after Viktor's training visit. What I can say is that we have received positive signals in such a way as to Fulham today expressed an interest to pursue the matter. This means concretely that I will hear from me to Trelleborg in the weekend and report on the meeting with Fulham, "said Martin Klett.

Klett would not comment on any negotiations, but it is clear that the 19-year-old Noring now very close to the Premier League.

Positive impression
- I do not want to say too much before I talked to Trelleborg. It does not feel professionally that they should read the details in the newspaper. But we have received a positive response in that they expressed an interest to move forward in contacts.

What about Victor?

- He has had a positive impression of the club. They have been very professional, both in the level of activity and people involved.

Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:49:15 AM
Wigan have unfinished business with Fulham - Martinez

Published 14:06 14/01/11

By MirrorFootball

(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/match-centre/article657523.ece/ALTERNATES/gallery-large/.jpeg)

Roberto Martinez is looking for an energised performance from his Wigan team against Fulham this weekend to make up for the flat display they put in at Craven Cottage earlier in the season.

Martinez suggested his players had struggled to cope with the demands of their fixture schedule when a Latics side showing just four changes from a midweek Carling Cup tie against Swansea were beaten 2-0 by Mark Hughes' team in October.

Going into Saturday's game at the DW Stadium, though, Wigan will have had a full week without a match for the first time since Boxing Day.

Several regular starters were rested for last weekend's 3-2 FA Cup victory at Hull as well and Martinez hopes to see the benefits when the team take on Fulham.

"The performance against Fulham away was one of the biggest disappointments we have had this season," Martinez said. "We didn't perform at our level, we were quite flat and probably the cup competition took too much out of our energy tank.

"We need to look at the game on Saturday as a great opportunity to be ourselves and try to put that performance right with the second encounter."

A player who has certainly had a chance to recharge his batteries is Charles N'Zogbia, who returns to the Latics squad after serving a three-match suspension.

Goalkeeper Chris Kirkland missed the Hull game following the bang to the head he suffered in the previous fixture against Bolton and will have his condition assessed.

In other injury news, James McCarthy has targeted the match against Arsenal on January 22 for his potential return to action - something Martinez, although pleased with the midfielder's progress in recovering from ankle ligament damage, is not so sure about.

"If he's got that in his head, he won't be far off, but from a medical point of view, probably the first week of February is a more realistic target," Martinez said. "But when he wants something he normally achieves it, so I wouldn't discount it."

Franco Di Santo (ankle) and Victor Moses (shoulder) are also doing well.

"From the three we have had very good news," Martinez said. "They are starting to step up in their training programmes now and they have had a very positive response in the last 10 days.

"We expect them to be really close to full fitness for the end of the month, and that is a real positive.

"Franco is training pain-free, Victor has seen the specialist and everything is going really well and for James it is exactly the same - he can step up with his final push in the recovery, and we are delighted."

Meanwhile, reports have suggested Moses may be interested in representing Nigeria at international level rather than England, a decision Martinez says the player must consider carefully.

"Nowadays, when you represent your country you need to give up a lot of time and make a lot of commitments in a busy schedule," Martinez said.

"Only the player can make that decision - he really needs to play for the nation that he feels is his nation.

"That is something Victor will have very clear. He is a very proud young man and he knows exactly what he wants to do.

"All the advice he can get can be a little help, but it could be misleading.

"As a player you need to look inside, see where you want to perform for your country and chase that dream, however hard it might seem at the time. But Victor has got amazing potential."



Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Wigan-manager-Roberto-Martinez-is-looking-for-an-energised-performance-from-his-team-against-Fulham-to-make-up-for-their-flat-display-in-the-reverse-fixture-article672769.html#ixzz1B1vhojs5 (http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Wigan-manager-Roberto-Martinez-is-looking-for-an-energised-performance-from-his-team-against-Fulham-to-make-up-for-their-flat-display-in-the-reverse-fixture-article672769.html#ixzz1B1vhojs5)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:50:50 AM
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11675_6662455,00.html?

Espanyol play down Ruiz talk

Planes denies knowledge of Premier League interest


Last updated: 14th January 2011
   

(http://img.skysports.com/10/04/218x298/Victor-Ruiz_2441616.jpg)
Ruiz: Wanted man

Espanyol's sporting director Ramon Planes has denied knowledge of English interest in Victor Ruiz, but admitted he had received bids for Pablo Daniel Osvaldo.

Big-spending Manchester City are reported to be keeping tabs on central defender Ruiz and he is also supposedly on the radar of Tottenham.

Long-term injuries to key defenders at Tottenham such as Ledley King and Jonathan Woodgate have left them in need of cover in that position.

Planes, however, has stated he is unaware of any interest from the Premier League duo in the 21-year-old.

"I don't know about Manchester City's or Tottenham's interest in Victor Ruiz," he told calciomercato.it.

"I know the guy is very popular in Italy and Germany, he's a player who we like very much and would like to keep him until the end of the season.

"However, if a sizeable offer was made for the player, we know that we would have to evaluate it."

Meanwhile, Planes did confirm that there has been interest in forward Osvaldo from two Premier League clubs.

He added: "I've received two bids for him from Fulham and Blackburn but for us, he's a player not for sale."
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:52:44 AM
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/jan/14/squad-sheets-wigan-athletic-fulham

Squad sheets: Wigan Athletic v Fulham


guardian.co.uk, Friday 14 January 2011 15.22 GMT


Short of strikers all season Fulham could welcome two back with both Andrew Johnson and Moussa Dembélé almost fit. Mark Hughes has also reinforced his squad with Steve Sidwell and the former Aston Villa midfielder may make his debut. Wigan have Charles N'Zogbia available after a three-match suspension but Mauro Boselli, who has been loaned to Genoa, will not feature. As Wigan have been held five times at home and Fulham have drawn five times away already, logic suggests the points will be shared at the DW Stadium for a fifth successive season. Richard Jolly

Venue DW Stadium, Saturday 3pm

Tickets £15 (0871 66 33 552)

Last season Wigan 1 Fulham 1

Referee Anthony Taylor

This season's matches 7 Y24, R2, 3.71 cards per game

Odds Wigan 13-8 Fulham 2-1 Draw 11-5


(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Sport/Pix/pictures/2011/1/14/1295017390857/Wigan-Athletic-v-Fulham-001.jpg)
Probable starters in bold, contenders in light. Photograph: Graphic Wigan


Subs from Kirkland, Pollitt, S Caldwell, Figueroa, Boyce, Golobart, Mustoe, McManaman, López, De Ridder

Doubtful Kirkland (concussion)

Injured Cleverley (hamstring, 27 Jan), Di Santo (ankle, Feb), McCarthy (ankle, Feb), Moses (shoulder, Feb)

Suspended None

Form guide DLDWDD

Disciplinary record Y34 R3

Leading scorer Rodallega 5

Fulham
Subs from Etheridge, Kelly, Riise, Gera, Halliche, Greening, E Johnson, Sidwell, Dikgacoi, Dembélé, Salcido, A Johnson

Doubtful Dembélé (ankle), A Johnson (hamstring), Sidwell (match fitness)

Injured Briggs (ankle, 22 Jan), Senderos (calf, Feb), Zamora (broken leg, Feb)

Suspended None

Unavailable Schwarzer (international duty)

Form guide WLWLDL

Disciplinary record Y23 R0

Leading scorer Dempsey 6

Match pointers
• If selected, Stephen Kelly will be making his 100th Premier League appearance


• Wigan have scored six goals in 11 Premier League meetings with Fulham and never more than once in a single match


• Chris Baird's two goals this season are the first he has scored since he got three for Southampton in 2006-07


• Wigan have the worst shots-to-goal ratio (14.44) in the top flight


• Clint Dempsey has scored five goals in seven league games against Wigan, including two in the reverse fixture earlier this season
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:53:54 AM
http://hammyend.com/index.php/2011/01/penalty-appeal/

Penalty Appeal

by lydia on January 14, 2011

Do you realise that Fulham are still yet to recieve a penalty this season? So after 21 league games and 3 Cup games we are yet to get the chance to score from the spot. Want to hear something else interesting? Wigan are the only team so far not to give away a penalty. I wonder will this week be the week that both of those records are broken!

Aside from that little piece of useless information lets have a look at the match tomorrow. The last time both teams meet was in October when Dempsey fired the boys to victory with a storming performance. From what I can remember from that day Fulham were playing some lovely football but just couldn't add more goals than the 2 that Dempsey scored.  And our goal hungry American seems to love playing Wigan as he has scored 5 times against them in 7 appearence so lets hope he adds to that tally tomorrow!

The last four meetings at the DW have all ended in draws but overall Fulham have tasted victory in this fixture more than Wigan with 15 wins to their 10. I'm pretty optimistic about tomorrow as Wigan have a poor home record and I know that our away record is nothing to boast about, but we do find ourselves in a good run of form at the minute. We have also had several boasts as Dembele and Johnson are returning to the squad to add some venom to our attack and we are likely to see Sidwell pop in from off the bench at some stage.

I'm predicting Wigan 0-2 Fulham with Dempsey to get at least one of the goals. Lets hope that by the time we play Stoke at the Cottage next week we will  see another few attacking players on the team list.

Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:55:10 AM
Schwarzer In Action

Friday 14th January 2011

(http://www.fulhamfc.com/Images/MainNews/NewsPages/Players/Schwarzer/SchwarzerAsianCup.jpg)

After making a perfect start to their 2011 Asian Cup adventure on Tuesday with a 4-0 win over India in Group C, Australia drew 1-1 with Korea Republic on Friday afternoon.

Mark Schwarzer played a full 90 minutes for the Socceroos, who had to come from behind to claim a point at the Al Gharrafa Stadium in Doha. Koo Ja-Cheol put the Korea Republic ahead on 24 minutes before Mile Jedinak hit back after 62 minutes.

Prior to kick-off there was a moments silence to pay respect for the flood victims in Queensland, Australia. Schwarzer will be back in action in Australia's final group C match against Bahrain at the Al-Sadd Stadium, Qatar, on Wednesday 19th January.


Read more: http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/SchwarzerInternational.aspx#ixzz1B1kudfmy (http://www.fulhamfc.com/Club/News/NewsArticles/2011/January/SchwarzerInternational.aspx#ixzz1B1kudfmy)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 06:56:27 AM
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23914321-a-chocoholic-with-too-many-trainers-but-swp-is-a-star.do

A chocoholic with too many trainers, but SWP is a star


Dickson Etuhu


(http://i.thisislondon.co.uk/i/std/siteimages/eveningstandard/columnists/dickson.etuhu.gif)
14 Jan 2011



I fiirst saw Shaun Wright-Phillips play when we were both 13 years old. We were in the same Sunday League team in Beckenham.

Shaun and his brother Bradley played with me and my brother Kelvin for a team called Ten Em Bee. Even back then I knew Shaun was going to play for England.

He was so fast and so strong for a player who was so small! At the time, I was more interested in athletics and was a keen long and triple jumper but Shaun was obsessed with his football.

After Shaun was told by Nottingham Forest that he was not big enough to make it as a professional player, he went north to Manchester City when he was 17 — six months later I joined him after being spotted playing for Ten Em Bee.

We ended up sharing a room in digs living with a family in Bramhall just outside Manchester for the next four years.

Surprisingly, for teenagers we were both really tidy but I could not get over the amount of trainers Shaun owned. I had never seen so many pairs of running shoes yet I could not borrow any of them because his feet were so small.

He was also addicted to chocolate back then, he just loved it. We were very compatible and spent a lot of time together after training, on our computers or in arcades . . . we were too young for the Manchester club scene.

Shaun broke through into the first team before I did but would still turn out on occasions for the youth side. The manager would bring him on for the last 20 minutes of games and I lost count of the number of times he'd score a hat-trick to win us matches we were losing.

One thing fans don't realise about Shaun is that he has a wickedly hard shot and is such a tough competitor. You could hit him with a heavy tackle in training and he'd still be up before you and racing away with the ball.

He has not had much luck in his career to date as his big-money moves to Chelsea and back to Manchester City have not worked out for him.

But the fact that Fabio Capello was still picking him for his England squad, even though he wasn't in the City first team, shows how highly he is regarded.

He has now been told he can leave City by boss Roberto Mancini and has been linked with a move to Fulham.

It would be great to play with him again but I'm sure there will be other clubs interested in taking him as well because of his speed and ability.

Mark Hughes has strengthened our squad by bringing in Steve Sidwell from Aston Villa which will be a big help to us in the run-in to the end of the season. Steve, who used to play for Chelsea, still has a house around the corner from our training ground so I'm sure he'll be glad he doesn't have to drive all the way up to the Midlands any more.

Fulham take on Wigan tomorrow and although we are only two points off the bottom, a win will see us go above both Everton and Liverpool, who play on Sunday, on goal difference.

The Premier League is so tight but we are all confident we are going to stay up because we have not been losing matches. We have been beaten just seven times whereas Liverpool — who we face in a couple of weeks at Anfield — have already lost 10 matches.

Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 07:00:14 AM

http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/172088/Fulham-s-Mark-Hughes-in-Ful-on-dogfight/

FULHAM'S MARK HUGHES IN FUL-ON DOGFIGHT


15th January 2011

By Matt Butler

FULHAM boss Mark Hughes believes the bottom 10 are already in a relegation scrap.

Hughes' men are 14th ahead of today's trip to second-bottom Wigan.

But the Cottagers are just a point clear of the Latics.

Hughes believes with the amount of shocks this term, anyone from Stoke downwards should be looking over their shoulders.

"The clubs that have come up have been stronger this year than they have in previous years," said Hughes.

"Normally by this time one of the clubs that has come up has been cut adrift, but that hasn't happened this year.

"Most have done really well this year and that has tied in with the top teams dropping points against lesser teams."

Hughes has brought in Steve Sidwell from Aston Villa and is in the market for Manchester City's Shaun Wright-Phillips.

He added: "In my first year at Blackburn we were struggling and I got Ryan Nelsen and Aaron Mokoena.

"Those signings kept Blackburn in the league. It's about making the right signings at the right time."
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: White Noise on January 15, 2011, 07:06:26 AM

http://www.sportingpreview.com/matches/10111780.php

WIGAN v FULHAM

BIG MATCH FACTS AND STATS


SportingPreview.com: 15 January 2011


Wigan have only won two of the 11 Premier League meetings between the sides, losing four and drawing five.

• The last four meetings between the sides in Wigan have ended in draws.

• Wigan have never scored more than one goal in a Premier League game against Fulham.

• Wigan are currently on a 10-match unbeaten home run against Fulham, although the last four meetings were all drawn.

• Fulham have gone eight matches without defeat against Wigan since a 1-0 home loss in March 2006 (W3, D5).

• Fulham striker Clint Dempsey has netted five goals in seven appearances against Wigan, including a brace in this season's reverse fixture.

• Wigan have won just one of their last six home games, drawing four and losing one.

• Fulham's 2-0 victory at Stoke on December 28 is their only win in 28 Premier League games away from Craven Cottage.

• Fulham have earned fewer cards, 23 yellow and no reds, than any other team in the Premier League this season.

• Wigan only average a point per game at home this season - the worst record in the top flight.

• They have drawn four of their last six league matches, winning and losing once.

• The Latics have the least potent attack in the division, scoring 18 goals in 21 matches.

• They have led at half-time in only two of their 21 league matches this season.

• Fulham have won three of their last four matches in all competitions.

• They are vying for back-to-back league victories for the first time in 11 months since beating Burnley and Birmingham.

• Mark Hughes's side have the worst record in the division when scoring the opening goal this season, winning only three of eight matches.

• Clint Dempsey has scored five goals in his last seven matches against Wigan, including twice in Fulham's 2-0 win in the reverse fixture earlier this season.
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: WhiteJC on January 15, 2011, 08:42:57 AM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1339757/Competition-Win-tickets-Fulham-v-Stoke-January-22--courtesy-Barclays.html? (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1339757/Competition-Win-tickets-Fulham-v-Stoke-January-22--courtesy-Barclays.html?)

Competition: Win tickets to see  Fulham v Stoke on January 22 - courtesy of Barcla

Sportsmail has teamed up with Barclays, title sponsor of the Barclays Premier League, to offer one lucky reader the opportunity to win a pair of tickets to the Fulham v Stoke clash at Craven Cottage on Saturday January 22.

The Cottagers will be looking for a win to get away from the bottom three while Stoke hope to maintain the two-win cushion that is keeping them away from the drop zone.

To be in with a chance, answer the following question:
What was the score when Stoke played host to Fulham at the Britannia Stadium last month?

2-0 to Stoke
2-0 to Fulham
0-0
E-mail your answer, along with your name, address and contact number to:
[email protected] (http://[email protected])

to arrive by midday Wednesday January 19 2011.

PLEASE NOTE: You must validate your entry with the words BARCLAYS FULHAM in your subject box; the tickets are for home fans only and do not include travel to/from the ground, accommodation or hospitality;  normal Associated Newspapers terms and conditions apply - the Editor's decision is final.

If you're not successful, you can always win a pair by visiting your nearest Barclays ATM and requesting a receipt, or by going online to www.barclaysticketoffice.com (http://www.barclaysticketoffice.com) – you don't even have to be a Barclays customer.

Match tickets are up for grabs EVERY 90 minutes, every day, throughout the 2010/11 season. Further information and terms and conditions are available from www.barclaysticketoffice.com (http://www.barclaysticketoffice.com)


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1339757/Competition-Win-tickets-Fulham-v-Stoke-January-22--courtesy-Barclays.html#ixzz1B5jyZXiJ (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1339757/Competition-Win-tickets-Fulham-v-Stoke-January-22--courtesy-Barclays.html#ixzz1B5jyZXiJ)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: WhiteJC on January 15, 2011, 08:44:51 AM
http://www.footballfancast.com/2011/01/premiership/fulham-face-up-to-six-pointer-at-the-dw-stadium? (http://www.footballfancast.com/2011/01/premiership/fulham-face-up-to-six-pointer-at-the-dw-stadium?)

FULHAM FACE UP TO SIX POINTER AT THE DW STADIUM

Fulham travel to the DW stadium for a fixture that could have massive significance for the relegation battle when final point totals are drawn up in May.

Fulham's results have improved massively over the last few weeks, and whilst they are only one point outside the drop zone, Mark Hughes should feel confident of maintaining the Cottagers' Premier League status.

Roberto Martinez will not be feeling quite so confident. His team have been remarkably inconsistent this term, and forming predictions on their games is an absolute nightmare! The former Swansea boss has confirmed that the club are looking to send club record signing, Mauro Boselli out on loan for the rest of the season, a clear indication of the lack of goals befalling the Latics so far this season.

New signing Steve Sidwell will give fresh impetus to Fulham's midfield plans, but with Wigan desperate to avoid what would be a disastrous defeat, I expect the sides to share the spoils.
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: WhiteJC on January 15, 2011, 08:45:28 AM
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/gossip_and_transfers/9362652.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/gossip_and_transfers/9362652.stm)

Espanyol defender Victor Ruiz is wanted by both Blackburn Rovers and Fulham. (the Times)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: WhiteJC on January 15, 2011, 08:48:12 AM
http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/1/14/1934987/wigan-a (http://www.cottagersconfidential.com/2011/1/14/1934987/wigan-a)

Wigan (A)

The weekend is almost upon us, and, following a break in Premier League football to make way for the FA Cup, the action is re-joined with a trip up north for the Cottagers, to Wigan.

Without a doubt, it is likely to be a tough game for us, with the Latics' unpredictability and inconsistency making them nigh-on impossible for Mark Hughes to prepare for. On their home turf they are bound to be a threat to our astute defence, however, with only 10 goals conceded away from the Cottage this season, Rodallega and the like are going to struggle to breach our defence.

Team news-wise, Fulham will be the happier side with regards to injury returns, having Andy Johnson, Moussa Dembele and new signing Steve Sidwell supposedly ready for selection while Matthew Briggs and long-term absentees Zamora and Senderos will have to continue watching on from the sidelines.

In contrast, Wigan Athletic are likely to only have one player return to the first eleven as Charles N'Zogbia has sat out his three match ban is cleared to play.

In our previous meeting, we gave Wigan a decent pounding, but only produced two goals for our troubles earlier in the season at Craven Cottage. On our last visit to the DW Stadium, however, we were less fruitful, taking home a point in November 2009 after a 1-1 draw.

As always, Sparky shared his views on the up and coming tie;

'We're looking forward to the game on Saturday against Wigan and it's another chance for us to build on the great performance we showed away from home at Stoke.'

'In terms of goals conceded away from home I think it's only Manchester City that have conceded fewer, so our away form is good. It's important that we're resolute on our travels because that's been a weakness in our play in recent times. I think the squad will get stronger as a consequence of working together and we'll keep on improving.'


With all this in mind, I'm toying between a score prediction of either 1-1, or 2-1 to us. To be safe though, I'll take the glass-half-empty, and, ultimately, Fulhamish approach and say 1-1.

Predicted Score: Wigan 1 - 1 Fulham

Predicted Fulham Line-Up: Stockdale; Baird, Hangeland, Hughes, Pantsil; Duff, Murphy, Etuhu, Davies; Kamara, Dempsey.

As I am rarely around on Saturdays, this post will double up as a match-day thread so please do feel free to comment pre-game, post game and of course during the match. Your match predictions and team line-up suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Come on You Whites!
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: WhiteJC on January 15, 2011, 01:00:50 PM
http://www.wigan.vitalfootball.co.uk/matchprere.asp?a=228371 (http://www.wigan.vitalfootball.co.uk/matchprere.asp?a=228371)

Latics v Fulham Preview

Latics face Fulham today in what is a vital game for both clubs, three points would see Latics leap frog Fulham and climb out of the bottom three, if Fulham get the win then they will put a little breathing space between themselves and the relegation spots, so all to play for.

With special ticket offers for the game the club are expecting a bumper crowd toady, Fulham have sold 1100 tickets and the Latics close to 18,000 so there should be a great atmosphere.

Charles N`Zogbia is back following his three match suspension and will bring back a threat that has been missing in his absence, N`Zogbia is our main outlet and it will be good to have him back for such a vital game.

Fulham have a dire record on the road over the past four seasons, but they won at Stoke recently and undoubtedly that will have given them some confidence, let`s hope the Latics are fired up and the crowd get behind the team inspiring them to getting the three points.
What The Bosses Say:
Latics boss Roberto Martinez:

'I don't think there are must-win games'

'The way the league is going now, any game is an opportunity to add points. That's going to be the sign of this year's competition.

'We beat Wolves which everyone spoke about being a six-pointer and such a crucial game, and then Wolves beat Liverpool and Chelsea and got six points.

'It shows you the league is different from any other season due to the fact teams are prepared to take risks against the top five and playing with bravery and games are open. If you take your chances you have the chance to win points.

'At the top you have five teams trying to win the title, then teams fighting to get into Europe and eight teams fighting to avoid relegation so it's an open competition.'

Fulham boss Mark Hughes

'We had been playing well prior to the run we have had, but we hadn't been getting results. Now we are getting those results and we are pleased with that. We have won three out of the last four games.

'The continuity we got from a good performance and good result against Peterborough was important and that was part of my thinking when I picked a strong team last week.

'The way the league is at the moment, draws don't really push you up the table. We are looking for three points because that is what consolidates your position. That's what we want.

'If we can get three points away at Wigan, it is another opportunity to build on the fact we got our first away win of the season just recently - and the sort of performance we showed in that game against Stoke.

'Our away form is good and we want that to continue. It is important we are resolute in our travels, because that has been a weakness in our play in recent times.'
Wigan Athletic Team News:
Charles N'Zogbia returns following his suspension but James McCarthy, Victor Moses, Franco Di Santo and Tom Cleverley are all missing through injury.

Latics from:

Al-Habsi, Gohouri, Alcaraz, G. Caldwell, Figueroa, Thomas, Watson, Diame, Stam, McArthur, Rodallega, Pollitt, Boyce, Lopez, Gomez, Gomez, S. Caldwell, McManaman
Player to watch: Charles N'Zogbia
We have missed N'Zogbia's creativity whilst he's been out, good to have him back
Fulham Team News:
Bobby Zamora still remains on the long term injury list whilst Moussa Dembele and Andrew Johnson are still rated as doubtful.

Defenders Matthew Briggs and Philippe Senderos are also out whilst Mark Schwarzer will be absent through international duty.

Steve Sidwell looks set to make his Fulham debut.

Fulham from:

Stockdale; Pantsil, Hangeland, Hughes, Baird, Davies, Riise, Murphy, Etuhu, Duff, Dempsey, Johnson, Kamara, Gera, Etheridge, Salcido, Greening, Halliche.
Player to watch: Clint Dempsey
The US international has a habbit of doing well against the Latics
Any Previous?
Latics and Fulham have met 37 times

Latics have 10 wins, Fulham 15, draws 12.

Last Six Meetings

30/10/2010 - Premier League - Fulham 2 Latics 0
04/04/2010 - Premier League - Fulham 2 Latics 1
08/11/2009 - Premier League - Latics 1 Fulham 1
07/02/2009 - Premier League - Latics 0 Fulham 0
29/10/2008 - Premier League - Fulham 2 Latics 0
22/12/2007 - Premier League - Fulham 1 Latics 1
Ref Watch:
Anthony Taylor (Wythenshawe)

Why not take a look at our excellent 'Meet the Ref' artilce

Anthony Taylor Card Watch 2010/11

Games - 19, Yellows - 67, Reds - 10
Match Prediction:
Head says 1-1

Heart says 2-0 Latics win, as always going with the heart.


Read more: http://www.wigan.vitalfootball.co.uk/matchprere.asp?a=228371#ixzz1B6n0RPfd (http://www.wigan.vitalfootball.co.uk/matchprere.asp?a=228371#ixzz1B6n0RPfd)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: WhiteJC on January 15, 2011, 01:02:17 PM
http://www.pinkun.com:80/norwich-city/fulham_end_norwich_city_s_cup_dreams_1_775507? (http://www.pinkun.com:80/norwich-city/fulham_end_norwich_city_s_cup_dreams_1_775507?)

Fulham end Norwich City's cup dreams

Fulham Under-18s 3, Norwich City Under-18s 0: A goal in the first half was followed by two after the break as City's Academy side exited the FA Youth Cup at the fourth round stage at Craven Cottage on Friday night.

Coach Ricky Martin was without the services of Jed Steer, who was called up to Paul Lambert's first team squad for today's clash with Cardiff following Declan Rudd's jaw injury.

It was the home side who held the upper hand for the majority of the first half and it needed a good save from Remi Matthews to deny Ronnie Minkwitz on the quarter hour mark, while three minutes later a goaline clearance from Remy Gordon thwarted Brister.

The home side opened their account on 23 minutes when Alex Brister picked up a poor clearance to fire the ball into the bottom corner.

Ten minutes later Jack Werndley fired over from a good position while on the stroke of half-time, after a good run from Ryan Oakley, Sam Kelly saw a shot blocked by the Fulham keeper.

City had a couple of early second half free-kicks, with Matthew Ball seeing his effort blocked while Gordon saw his shot saved by the Fulham keeper. With 69 minutes gone Fulham doubled their advantage when Kerim Frei had a simple tap in from inside the six yard box and seven minutes later the game was put beyond City's reach when Marcello Trotta sent in a shot that went in off the inside of the post.

• City: Matthews, Barker, Toffolo (Stephens, 78), Brindley, Jones, Gordon, Oakley, Dobbs, Werndley, Ball, Kelly (Loza, 45). Subs not used: Hewitt, Florence, Hall-Johnson.
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: WhiteJC on January 15, 2011, 01:03:12 PM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=228378 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=228378)

Fulham - The Nervous Eight!
Wigan away could be a crucial fixture.

We`re currently out of the relegation picture but in the strange situation whereby if Wigan were to beat us today we`d tumble back down into the relegation places.

The compressed nature of the Premier League may provide fantastic entertainment for the casual football fan but for those clubs in the bottom half it makes for nervy times.

Ahead of what is a relegation scrap with Wigan, Mark Hughes has warned that there is no room for complacency at the foot of the table and warned that there are numerous clubs who could be in for an end of season fright, when he commented to the press,

"The relegation battle could go right to the end with maybe even or eight clubs still involved."

"The clubs who have come up are stronger than in other years, while the top teams have been dropping points."

Hopefully, by the time May comes around, we`ll be well clear of the bottom half of the table.


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=228378#ixzz1B6nbdRCc (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=228378#ixzz1B6nbdRCc)
Title: Re: Saturday Fulham Stuff (15.01.11)
Post by: WhiteJC on January 15, 2011, 01:04:05 PM
http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=228379 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=228379)

Fulham - Hughes is Dead Right!
It doesn`t matter one hoot just how well Fulham play!

It wouldn`t matter if we enjoyed a none-goal thriller up at the DW Stadium this afternoon, you`d still find Fulham tucked away at the back end of Match of the Day tonight.

It`s something that irks us and it is something that Mark Hughes has also noticed. Ahead of our battle with Wigan this afternoon, Hughes has spoken out on the subject and cited the fixture, last Saturday, as the perfect example, remarking.,

"Maybe with the number of draws we`ve had this season our games are going to migrate to the end of Match of the Day."

"But we were the top scorers in the FA Cup, the only team with a player who scored three and we didn`t get the attention other teams did."

We`re not being paranoid are we?


Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=228379#ixzz1B6nqk8Ou (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=228379#ixzz1B6nqk8Ou)